January 2013 Swindon Link

Getting ready for the New Year on pages 23 to 26

A Happy New Year to all our readers

No. 368 January 2013 • Circulation 28,000

A Happy New Year

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We make a visit to the Far East Swindon children’s author Neil Griffiths packed a Link for his recent trip to Hong Kong and China and called into Swindon Book Co. Read about his trip and the history of the book store that bears the town’s name on page 20

West police become more visible Officers can now be seen out and about on two wheels in West Swindon, thanks to Swindon Travel Choices Officers meet the public on their bicycle beat on page 2

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

North primary school places consultation Swindon Council is restarting the consultation delayed from November to hear views on the provision of another 60 primary school places to cope with demand in Haydon End, Oakhurst, Redhouse and Taw Hill.

These places need to be available by September 2014.

Two options are being considered: • expanding Orchid Vale Primary School in Haydon End to become a two form entry school and building a single form entry school on a green field site north of Mouldon Hill Country Park, to the west of Thamesdown Drive, or • build a two form entry school on the Mouldon Hill site, with Orchid Vale reverting to a single form entry in due course.

The outline plans are available to view until 23 February at www. swindon.gov.uk/consultations See the plans and talk to council officers on Wednesday 23 January, 3pm to 7pm, at The Tawny Owl pub, Queen Elizabeth Drive

West bobbies bike it on the beat

West Swindon is full of pedestrian and cycle routes inaccessible to cars, so with a grant from Swindon Travel Choices, beat police and community support officers are now able to make themselves visible on bicycles and still achieve a rapid response to incidents.

The Big Adventure Store, at Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea, has supplied the latest model of Merida bikes fitted with 29” wheels and road tyres and will be providing a monthly service over three years to keep them in the best operating condition.

PC Tom Turner of the West Swindon Neighbourhood Police Team said: “They’re superb bikes which give officers a great deal more flexibility to get around the backways and shortcuts.”

NPT Sergeant Pete Foster said his experience of using bikes in Pinehurst where he used to work showed their effectiveness. “A common and Gail Light, West Swindon localities facilitator who liaised with Swindon Travel Choices understandable gripe of the to secure the grant, and Justin Woodward of the Big Adventure store, front, with back public is that they don’t see the from left, PCSO Sgt Joseph Rees, Sgt Pete Foster, PC Tom Turner, PC Steve Yates, PCSO police on the ground enough. Richard Lane, West Swindon Forum chair councillor Nick Martin . Photo: Richard Wintle Bikes provide the means to www.calyxpix.com increase our visibility in diflike to see us around. If you’re ridJustin Woodward of the Big Adferent neighbourhoods and those ing on a cyclepath you often have venture Store said he was delighted up to no good know they can no to stop for pedestrians and dog to quote to supply the bikes. “The longer hide.” walkers so it’s a good opportunity Merida bikes with larger wheels PCSO Joseph Rees said there had to chat about what’s going on in have the right combination of been a positive reaction from the that neighbourhood. We’re picking strength for tackling off-road conpublic. “We’ve had the bikes since up bits of intelligence which could ditions whilst having the ability to early November and people really help with investigations. get up to a higher speed quickly.

“If there is a call we can quickly As both a West Swindon resident reach incidents by taking shortcuts; and a business, I am keen to help we can often get to a scene quicker the NPT. It’s in all our interests that than a response car.” we help them keep us safe.”

Colleague PCSO Richard Lane • Read the Swindon Travel Choices added: “We’re connecting with newsletter on page 47 more people compared with walk• See the Big Adventure Store ing patrols and the kids are well advert on page 18 impressed when we stop for a chat.”

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West Swindon Neighbourhood Police team joint manager PC Steve Yeates has been taking a no-compromise approach to parents parking outside Oliver Tomkins Primary School, Toothill. Recently he has been driven to issue tickets to reinforce the message that parking in the wrong place will result in a fine.

For years the school has sent letters to parents asking them not to park outside on the double S bend of Beaumaris Road. Letters from PC Yeates at the beginning of term did not deter people from parking in the wrong place, including the sacrosanct zig-zag lines on either The driver of this vehicle was fined for side of the zebra crossing installed blocking the garage on Beaumaris Road several years ago.

Photo: PC Steve Yeates Having patrolled the school entrance for several days advising for parents and children walking to parents to keep their cars away school. Unfortunately there were from the entrance, PC Yeates said persistent offenders and I’m afraid he had to act. “I really didn’t want action was required.”

The word soon spread once to start giving people tickets but some drivers just were not listening penalty notices were given out and to what I was saying about parking drivers no longer park outside the in a dangerous way. Beaumaris school. PC Yeates said he would Road at school drop off and pick continue his daily patrols until up time is totally congested and double yellow lines are put down parked cars make the area unsafe in April.

14/12/2012 11:38

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Special Swindon people wanted by 1 February

Do you know of a child or an adult who has displayed remarkable courage, or a gutsy community champion who has improved your area, an inspiring teacher, a neighbour who is always there - or even a team of people who have pulled together for community good?

If so, the Mayor of Swindon group will receive the ultimate nate somebody, or a team, the mayor councillor Michael Bray wants accolade of a small enamel lapel is asking you to write no more than your nominations for the Pride of badge depicting the 19th Century 250 words explaining why he, she Swindon Awards which will be inspiration of Swindon’s growth or the team should be considered presented at a ceremony in April to and success, Isambard Kingdom for the award. celebrate the very best of Swindon. Brunel. Winners’ names will be Include the name, address and The mayor said: “The Pride of engraved on a plaque mounted in contact details of the person nomiSwindon Awards celebrate the ex- Swindon’s Central Library. nated as well as yours. traordinary personal commitment Tony Martin of Zurich ComEntries should be sent by Friday the people of Swindon give to their munity Trust said: “The Pride of 1 February to Pride of Swindon community. I’m honoured to be Swindon nominations acknowl- Awards, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, involved as the awards highlight edge the amazing things going Swindon SN1 2JH or mail: prideofthe incredible selfless achievements on in our community. The badge swindonawards@swindon.gov.uk of ordinary people.” is presented to 15 people who we Nominees selected to attend the consider the best of the best for their award ceremony in April will be extraordinary effort.” presented with a certificate recogNominees must live or work nising their contribution. A select within Swindon borough. To nomiThe mayor with Pride of Swindon awards compere Shirley Ludford, left, and past winners David Wray of Swindon MS Therapy Centre, Bonnie Walsh of the Swindon Limbless Association and Breakthrough Breast Cancer campaigner Eunice Salmon

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Who do you think is a Swindon treasure?

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Pinehurst Health Walk Starts Friday 11th January 2013

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Think of a national treasure – and who comes to mind? David Attenborough perhaps, Rolf Harris, Dame Judi Dench, or maybe the Queen herself?

These are people recognised and respected for their wisdom, their experience and contribution to the national cultural life.

Think of a Swindon treasure, and the answers may or may not come so readily.

Whether you’re a born and bred Swindonian or a relative newcomer, we want to know who you think has inspired others and has made a major impact on the town.

Those who qualify for this ultimate accolade of recognition don’t Artist and muralist Ken White who we necessarily have to be alive. There recognised as our first Swindon treasure are so many people who have in the December Link done so much poration town clerk in the 1940s for Swindon and 50s who saw the town’s future, in the past and and Shirley Garman, who died in we need to September 2009, an inspiration to be reminded Swindon women to work together of them. Two for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The articles about people you come to mind, David Murray suggest will be published from time John, left, the to time. Mail your suggestions to: Swindon Cor- publisher@swindonlink.com

For more information phone (01793) 465413 or email: arothwell@swindon.gov.uk

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Consultation 12 January on giant solar farm for Shaw Forest

Swindon Council is holding a consultation exercise on Saturday 12 January, 10am to 2pm, at Peatmoor Primary School to hear views about building a solar energy farm on the third phase of Shaw Forest, the part of the landfill site completed last year but not due to open to the public for at least another five years.

The proposal is for between 16,000 and 32,000 solar panels, depending on a survey of the site. This could cover between 22 and 25 acres and generate enough power for 1,500 homes. The site would be fenced for safety and to prevent vandalism.

West Swindon forum chairman councillor Nick Martin said the project has merit. "It's an eco-friendly project unobtrusive to the public and close to connections to the grid. It will generate a lot of electricity whilst creating a financial return to the council taxpayer.

"However I would like to see access to the part of Shaw Forest 3 which overlooks Swindon lagoons which is closed to the public for safety reasons.

Giving people the chance to view bird life from hides on the southern edge of Shaw Forest is desirable. This would mean we would get the best use of the third phase of the land-fill reclamation."

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West Swindon's educational, environmental, cultural and community centre has started to generate solar power after the installation of 20 solar panels providing up to 5 kilowatts of electricity an hour.

Although the former dairy farm on Old Shaw Lane has been used for community purposes since the late 1970s, a 25 year lease was only agreed by Swindon Council in December 2011.

With the long term future se- Pictured, Matt and fellow trustee Andrea Hirsch with the solar cured, farm trust- generators on top of the big red barn ee Matt Holland said it was possible The solar panels are mounted to invest in improving the site, horizontally out of sight on the including generating power. “We've roof of the big red dutch children’s been wanting to install solar panels play barn. for a few years but with only a one"The idea that we are generating year rolling lease we didn't know energy on top of the barn whilst what was round the corner. The children are expending energy un25 year lease agreement with the derneath is a really great thought," council was a really great decision added Matt. for the farm and also Swindon as See the full story: www.bit.ly/lsfsolar a whole. www.lowershawfarm.co.uk

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

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Editorial for February by 7 January Published: 28 December Copy for March: 4 February ‘Like’ Swindon Link

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for February advertisements: 7 January

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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.

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13/12/2012 15:32

swindonlink.com • January 2013

5

Residents lodge objections to more houses close to Lydiard Park

Despite the planning inspectors decision to permit 700 houses to be built at Ridgeway Farm (see story on page 6), community and heritage groups concerned with the protection of Lydiard Park have appealed to Swindon Council’s planning committee to reject any building on land off Hook Street, next to Grange Park.

Persimmon Homes have applied Spokeswoman for Lydiard Fields the park, the developers seem abto build 73 mainly executive homes, Action Group Lorraine Williams, solutely determined to force this arguing the field concerned meets said: “This application benefits upon us. the requirements no one at all “The Swindon community hinted by a planapart from the should not be made to feel that it ning inspector developers and has to hand over one of its few prewho rejected del a n d o w n e r s . cious assets through the persistent velopment of the Despite wide- bullying of developers.” site overlooking spread opposiThe planning committee is the park in 2011. tion from the expected to hear the Hook Street local commu- application on 15 January or 12 Right, Glenn Godnity, the council February. win of Pegasus Planand the many ning Group with the www.lydiardfields.org.uk people who use Lydiard Fields plan

Trust says town centre canal is viable

The award winning Wilts & Berks Canal Trust has expressed its disappointment to Forward Swindon for failing to recognise the potential of reinstating a canal through Swindon in its proposals for regenerating the town centre, writes chairman Mike Lang.

Of course the residents of Swindon are going to be ‘generally positive’ about the town centre renewal proposals put forward

by Forward Swindon.

Everyone has known for years that Swindon needs a major shake-up, so anything is welcomed. But Forward Swindon has failed to come up with anything inspirational to catch the public imagination by including a once in a lifetime investment.

It’s regrettable that The Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mrs Sarah Rose it has downplayed the Troughton presenting the Queen’s Award for Voluntary level of support for Service to canal trust officers on narrowboat Dragonfly the canal which has at the end of September. come from a plethora of organisa- to meet Forward Swindon, and tions such as the Wiltshire Swindon learned that consultation responses and Oxfordshire Canal Partnership are currently being analysed and (representing all local authorities amendments to the draft proposalong the line of the canal), Sustrans als it thinks appropriate will be and Canoe England, the Environ- included.

The trust and the partnership ment Agency and Natural England, as well as local canal societies and are suggesting that the council’s Swindon businesses represented economic development steering by the Thames Valley Chamber of group should commission Forward Commerce. There have been well Swindon to carry out a full assessover a hundred individual expres- ment of the costs and benefits of the canal project, and the timescales. sions of support.

It is certainly possible to open a Forward Swindon cites cost as a possible obstacle, yet the canal section of the canal through Swintrust has provided independent don, and make connections to the evidence that the benefits far out- national network in due course as funds come available. weigh the costs.

Swindon wants the canal, as Forward Swindon says that the focus of their masterplan is eco- expressed in official Swindon Bornomic growth yet they are ignoring ough planning policy and strategy, a major driver of economic growth. as well as national sporting and We estimate inclusion of a canal will leisure bodies, Oxfordshire and be worth £10 million a year to the Wiltshire Councils, and the people town’s economy - a very significant of the town.

Forward Swindon needs to listen. contribution.

Trust officers recently managed We’re keen to talk about it.

1-18 January 13.indd 5

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Green light for 700 houses at Ridgeway Farm

To the consternation of MPs, councillors and residents of West Swindon and people living in north Wiltshire, house builder Taylor Wimpey has been given permission on appeal to build 700 homes and a primary school on green fields in Wiltshire, north of Peatmoor and Sparcells.

The Secretary of State for the Environment Eric Pickles confirmed the recommendation from planning inspector Katie Peerless.

Broadly the main reasons for approval given by the inspector are: 1. The emerging Wiltshire Core Strategy has less importance compared to the former and soon to-beabolished Regional Spatial Strategy; 2. There is no confirmed 5 year housing supply for either Wiltshire or Swindon; 3. Waiting for the emerging Wiltshire Core Strategy is inappropriate; 4. The accepted impact of the development on roads was not regarded as sufficient to justify refusal; 5. The development would not lead to Swindon being joined up with Purton.

this objective. The Appellants feel confident that this scheme is deliverable and saleable, even with the likelihood that it may face competition from other sites, and they will, no doubt, have taken all such factors into account when assessing the viability of their proposals.’

This is confirmed in the very last paragraph (405) where Pictured on the old Purton Road bridge, overlooking the Ridgeway Farm site, from left, residents the Inspector con- Martyn Parrott and Paula Russell, Kevin Fisher, chair, Shaw Residents’ Association, Richard Pagett of Purton Ps & Qs, Swindon councillors Garry Perkins and Nick Martin, Wiltshire councillor Jaqui cludes: ‘The Appeal pro- Lay, Peatmoor resident Roger Ogle. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com posal is a major hous- Network Rail starts to dual railway line - see story on page 8 ing scheme that is deliverable, In a telling paragraph (349) in her strongly promoted by the developreport Ms Peerless appears to get ers and suitably located. There has So much for the Big Society behind the government’s demand been no objection to it from the Shaw Residents’ Association chairman Kevin Fisher, who spoke at the for more houses to be built and developers of other housing sites in planning appeal in May, explains the association’s view of the decision Taylor Wimpey’s desire to build the area, indicating that they do not them: ‘The construction industry consider that it would slow down During his pre-election party higher turnout of local people than is seen by the Government as an or compete harmfully with them. It conference David Cameron said: was seen during elections.

Yet at appeal, using the draft Regiimportant contributor to aiding would provide a significant number “When you look at almost any one of our policies, they are all nal Spatial Strategy for Wiltshire, growth and the Appellants’ ex- of affordable units, for which there about giving people more power which the government derided in pressed ambition to develop the is an acknowledged need. land, as evidenced by their pur‘I consider that these factors and control over their lives. Look opposition and promised to replace, at our housing policy, it’s about the inspector found in favour of the suing this Appeal, would further outweigh the policy harm.’ scrapping the housing targets, and developers. Mr Pickles stated in his allowing local areas to decide.” covering letter that he ‘afforded Eric Pickles said at a NALC limited weight’ to the new Swindon conference “We’ve put local people and Wiltshire Core Strategies. at the heart of the system. So they Given that the core strategies get to decide where new homes … have been approved by democratishould go.” cally elected councils, it is clear that But more recently Mr Cameron neither democracy or local opinion THE PREMIER SERVICE wrote: “A familiar cry goes up – yes played any role in the Ridgeway GUARANTEED TO SAVE we want more housing, but no to Farm decision.

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Work starts on dualling railway line

Network Rail started site work in December on a £45 million project to upgrade the railway route from single to dual line between Swindon, Kemble and Stroud with completion set for Easter 2014.

When commissioned the in- between 9 August and 2 September creased capability will allow the for track alignment. operation of four trains an hour Work on laying the second line along the line. This capability will will then take place from September be essential during the planned to December, followed in January electrification of the Great Western 2014 by signalling installation and main line when Bristol Parkway preparatory work ahead of commisand the Severn Tunnel are closed sioning at the end of April. and South Wales trains are diverted Michelle Scogings, scheme senior along this route. sponsor, said: “The line of route Network Rail began enabling between Swindon to Kemble was works in October and started earth- double track up until the late 1960s works at different points along the – a decline in passenger demand led Looking north from Purton Road bridge where the single line will be dualled this year line in December. to the singling of the line. Over the Preparations of the track bed will intervening years passenger num“The project has been pro- to the Thames Valley Signalling take place from March to August bers have grown and this scheme grammed to coincide with a major Control Centre in Didcot. This has this year and there will be a 23 day will meet the demand forecast over signalling renewal which will see allowed us to minimise the disrupclosure of the existing single line the next 30 years. the Swindon controls relocated tion to passengers.”

Tadpole Lane due to reopen. Heritage railway can be reached from two directions The works to the road bridge and the Victorian railway bridge on Tadpole Lane, which began in May 2012, are due to completed on 1 February.

The road bridge works were completed within 20 weeks as forecast, and the original works schedule for the rail bridge, which carries a preservation order, was 12 weeks, giving a completion date of the end of 2012.

However Laura Jones, Swindon Council’s highways project and programme delivery manager, described how additional cracks found in the masonry had to be back-filled and that recently discovered features of the existing structure of the rail bridge meant that an alternative repair solution had to be found.

She explained: “The back filling work has now been completed, but there is still work outstanding to secure the bridge in a way that is compatible with the way it was originally engineered, and this will add slightly to the timescale.”

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Swindon Fairtrade Coalition thrusts Trustea campaign upon National Trust and its 4 million members

Swindon Fairtrade Coalition wants to ensure that every one of the three and a half million cuppas served annually by the National Trust to visitors at its properties has been certifiably fairly traded.

To get their message across Explaining the help they they’ve launched the Trustea need to persuade the NaCampaign to petition for a tional Trust Barbara said: resolution to be passed at the “The membership of the trust’s AGM in October.

Swindon Fairtrade Coalition Commenting on the importance is very small in comparison of national charities signing up to actually supplied by Yorkshire Tea with that of the National Trust.

Fairtrade commitments, chair of company, which adheres to the It would be great if Link readers the Swindon Fairtrade Coalition Rainforest Alliance policy which would sign the petition and tell all Barbara Aftalek said: “As the Na- is not Fairtrade certified.” their friends and family about it too.

The Fairtrade certification system It would be nice to drink a cup of tional Trust national HQ is based in Swindon which has a strong is the only one which guarantees Fairtrade tea after our walk round Fairtrade following, we want to producers receive a minimum price, National Trust sites, and it would see it adopting its own declared as well as a premium for community make a huge difference to so many investment and sustainable farming people round the world.”

Fairtrade practices.

“Despite claims in its 2009 an- methods. It’s also the only system Sign the petition and lend your nual report that it is a Fairtrade which ensures good cash flow for voice to the Trustea campaign at organisation National Trust is its producers. www.swindonfairtrade.org

Whistle is blown on exploitative managing agent practices

9

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Swindon business woman Cherry Jones, who has run her property management company in the town Hypnotic Gastric Band for the past 30 years, is standing up for lease-holders, and for the integrity of her profession, by drawWeight Loss ing attention to the practices of large companies which are preventing flat owners across Swindon from Stop Smoking choosing their own managing agent to levy their annual service charge.

Remove Bad Habits Explaining the problems being MP Justin Tomlinson, who then exploiting residents in this way. It’s Free consultation in the privacy faced by flat owners in newly worked with her to help identify pure greed.” of your own home if required built blocks Cherry said: “Over whether the large managing agents • If you are effected by the issues the past couple of years I’ve been used by the developers were within in this story, contact Cherry at Email: enquiries@ihypnotherapy.co.uk approached by a number of people their rights.

Home from Home: cherry@blockTel: 07582 016424 who were having difficulties with Having met with Steven Taylor, management.com or call 01793 www.ihypnotherapy.co.uk their managing agent. the director of Law and Democratic 740745 or 741027.

Services at Swindon Borough Council, Cherry reported: “Mr Taylor refuted that there is any intrinsic link between the property agents’ claims and their refusal to allow the flat owners to choose their own agent.

“Basically this means that the agents have been exploiting the lease-holders’ lack of understanding of the law, as well as the likelihood that no one would challenge them about it.”

The matter has now been Large range of mobility aids Justin Tomlinson with Cherry Jones escalated to Westminster, where Mobility scooters Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com Cherry and Justin met with the Hire services “It appears that their service Housing Minister, Mark Prisk.

Stairlifts charges were kept artificially low Commenting on the issue, Justin while the properties were being said: “It’s a matter of urgency that sold, then inflated afterwards. They we establish whether lease-holders were also being told by their agents are being trapped into paying that they couldn’t exercise their extortionate service charges by Rise and recline right to choose their own manag- unscrupulous managing agents. ing agent until all the flats in the This could be a national issue that furniture complex had been sold, or until the affects thousands of people and it Adjustable Beds development was complete. makes me extremely angry that this “In some cases lease-holders is happening.” were being told that the developAcknowledging that her business ment would not be signed off as may benefit from lease-holders beCosyfeet complete, until the developer’s ing allowed to exercise their right shoes and slippers community contribution had been to choose their managing agent, Free hearing Footcare deployed (Section 106), or until the Cherry said: “I’m fighting for this health check estate’s roads were fully adopted by on a matter of principle, and I’m appointments the council (Section 38). If this was grateful to Justin for taking this Ellendune Shopping Centre, WROUGHTON, SN4 9LN true, the lease-holders could be tied on board. Swindon has given me in to the same agent for anything a good living for the past 30 years 01793 815083 up to 10 years.” and it makes me so angry that naNext to Tesco – Free level parking Cherry brought these issues to tional companies who mostly aren’t www.thehearingandmobilitystore.co.uk the attention of North Swindon even based in Swindon should be

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13/12/2012 15:41

10 swindonlink.com • January 2013

A thought for the New Year.

Volunteering is good for you too!

We all know that volunteers play a vital role helping many charities and other organisations provide their services, but you can’t underestimate the impact on the individual who gives their time to help others, writes Sue Dunmore, Swindon Volunteer Centre manager.

It’s estimated that the UK volun- or change career direction. It can tary sector contributes about £4.8 also help build your confidence, billion to the UK GDP and makes you can make new friends with up 2.2 per cent of the total UK like-minded people and you can workforce. But the many benefits experience diversity and integrate of volunteering often go unsung with the community.

– the good you do for others tends These are just some of the many to eclipse the good it does for you. benefits of volunteering. WhatVolunteering can help you de- ever your motivation for getting velop skills that equip you for life involved, Volunteer Centre Swinand work, and it opens up new don can help you find the right opportunities and challenges. If opportunity. Why not give us a call you are struggling to find a job, on 01793 420 557? volunteering can enhance your CV, We’re open to see people at 1 it improves your job prospects and John Street, Swindon SN1 1RT from employability and can influence Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm. your career choice.

Alternatively, view and apply for all But volunteering isn’t only for our current opportunities at www. people looking to build a career do-it.org.uk

Wednesday 9th January – 27th March 2013 Walcot Dome, 11am – 12.30pm Thursday 10th January – 28th March 2013 Link Centre, 7.30pm – 9pm Thursday 10th January – 28th March 2013 Croft Sports Centre, 7pm – 8.30pm Friday 11th January – 22nd March 2013 John Moulton Hall Penhill 9.30am – 11am The course is £42 although could be free if referred by your G.P. (subject to your surgery participating in the scheme and you meeting the criteria for referral)

To book or for further information please contact: Debbie Mitchell or Nick Lowe, Adult Weight Management Co-ordinator.

Tel: (01793) 864934 Mob: 07557 197232 or adultweightmanagement@swindon.gov.uk

1-18 January 13.indd 10

Fourteen colleagues from Channel Development at Nationwide Building Society shifted a couple of tons of soil at the rear of Freshbrook Community Centre in December to prepare the ground for a soft play area.

“The Nationwide staff did a great job,” said centre administrator Emma Tanner. “Next year we hope to install a permanent play structure or use the area for larger mobile play equipment. The earth was moved to raised beds next to the playgroup play area which will be planted up by children in the Spring.”

Curry charity night to boost Bradon Forest pupils’ India fundraising

Thirty youngsters from Bradon Forest School are starting to raise funds for a life changing trip to India in April 2014.

They will visit two partner schools where they will stay in dormitories, as well as take in the sights of The Golden Temple at Amritsar, and Dharamshala, the home of the exiled Dalai Lama, in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Year 10 student Charlotte Butler said: “I love learning about different religions and cultures and I’m really looking forward to meeting people my age, to see if they talk about the same things we do and are interested in similar things.”

The nine day trip will cost £1,500 per pupil which they have to raise themselves. Charlotte and her friends Grace Bartlett and Eleasha Kell, pictured, have got a few ideas up their sleeves including a cash-

back curry night at the Bombay Lounge on 29 January.

“We did a pre-Christmas bag pack at Asda in North Swindon; we’ll be running raffles, tombolas, and cake sales during 2013 and have some surprises in mind,” said Charlotte For tickets to the Bombay Lounge charity night on 29 January call Amanda Butler on 07788 202256.

13/12/2012 15:42

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2013 a ‘shoe-in’ to be Kaylie’s year

Footwear designer Kaylie Hill, who grew up in Freshbrook and attended Greendown School, staged her debut appearance at the Birmingham NEC Clothes Show in December, showcasing shoes from her first Kaylie Simmone collection.

Kaylie was exclusively featured Describing the process Kaylie Kaylie commented: “It’s a great in the October 2011 Link just before said: “The hardest part was finding chance to promote my brand and she set off for a much sought after the people with the right expertise build up an awareness amongst six month internship with Adidas to work with. I went to loads of boutiques, editors and the media in Germany. business seminars and gradually generally.”

After returning and intent on started meeting people who could As for the future Kaylie said: “I becoming an entrepreneur Kaylie help me.” want to bring out a new collection based herself in Shoreditch in Kaylie finally found a family-run every season, as well as going into London where she quickly put factory in East London who wanted bespoke designs. In five years’ time what she’d learned into practice, to work with her to produce her I’d like to open a shop that sells researching the ideas and sourc- handmade designs, which she de- exclusive footwear, and ultimately ing the materials for her very own scribes as a mix of urban scene with I’d like to go to the USA.” collection. high fashion and a sports element. See Kaylie’s designs and put in an Before going to the Clothes Show order at: www.kayliesimmone.co.uk

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Westlea Primary School hosted three days of wheelchair skills training with volunteers from Whizzkidz and 13 participants from reception to Year 6 who came from Westlea, Robert Le Kyng primary and Crowdys Hill Special School.

Apart from going outside to try Kids’ trainers, were fantastic and out different surfaces and become really made the course a lot of fun. more wheelchair road safety aware, The activities were practical and the youngsters worked in teams to designed to give children greater produce their own dance moves wheelchair strength and coordinaincorporating hand and body and tion. They also gave tips on how weaving patterns with their wheel- to check the workings of their chairs in the school hall. wheelchair and to alert parents and Marla Carroll, head of special carers if they need some attention. resources provision at Westlea, The children will be talking about said: “James and Trish, the Whizz the session for a long time.”

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13/12/2012 15:43

swindonlink.com • January 2013

13

Grange Park resident achieves highest school business qualification

A Swindon school business manager has achieved the highest level in her profession, one of only 26 in the country.

Lynne Fletcher, vice principal part of the qualification, at Even Swindon Prima- an academy, Lynne had responsibilfor business at Swindon Academy, I greatly benefited from ry School then moved to ity of overseeing the £34 million recently completed the new School being able to spend Haydon Leigh primary budget to build and equip the new Business Director (SBD) qualifica- five days working with before being appointed school at Pinehurst. This project also tion through the National College Honda which is one of business manager at included refurbishing Pinehurst for School Leadership, one of only Swindon Academy’s Greendown School. and Penhill primary schools.

26 out of the 55 who started the sponsors.

When Swindon CounAt the academy she is responcourse.

“It was invaluable to cil’s education depart- sible for all aspects of management The 18 month masters-level study strategic management failed an Ofsted outside the classroom including programme is designed to help ment and long term inspection in 2002 she school finance, asset management, participants provide direction, exer- planning within an injoined the borough’s health and safety, staff appointcise sound judgement and manage dustrial setting. Honda school finance restruc- ments and IT. resources efficiently in some of the management were incredibly turing team before secondment to Lynne is the only person in the most innovative and challenging generous with their time in giving Headlands to assist it out of special South West with the SBD qualifisettings in the education sector. me the opportunity to understand measures. cation and is now being commisLynne said: “Participants com- production processes and systems When the school became the first sioned to mentor other business pleted the course whilst holding in every aspect of the business.” in Swindon to be taken over by an managers in order to raise the down their full time positions. As Lynne started as an administrator education trust and relaunched as standards of school management.

Talking about not bullying in school Shane Hewlett from Swindon Town In the Community and first team player Darren Ward, pictured, visited Peatmoor Primary School to talk to children in every year group. during anti-bullying week in November.

They discussed different types of bullying, what to do if they see it taking place or if they are bullied.

Darren also talked of his own experiences of going to school and also how bullying takes place in football at different levels of the game.

1-18 January 13.indd 13

13/12/2012 15:44

14 swindonlink.com • January 2013

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Class of 2007 says farewell to Isambard

The first ever students to attend Isambard Community School reunited in November to celebrate five years of hard work at a graduation evening watched by family, friends, staff and special guests.

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Perhaps the disadvantage of being a school which specialises in media is that video made during pupils’ lives is available as later evidence and the audience was treated to footage recorded over previous years. The low lights in the hall hid expressions but squeals betrayed embarrassment.

Class members were presented with their examination certificates

by Andrew Kirk, senior manager at Lloyds TSB Commercial.

Mrs Mattey issued special prizes to the student leadership team, and to the ‘best boy’ Matt Gilbert and

‘best girl’ Anna Scully.

Afterwards former headboy Callum Smith,now at New College said: “I enjoyed my time at Isambard. We did GCSEs in a year which prepared us for the increased pressure we’re now experiencing on A level courses.”

Year group tutor Pablo Gomez wished his former pupils all the best for their futures. He said: “They were a fantastic cohort who made Isambard what it is today. They grew with the school and had an input to everything. We’re really proud of their achievements.”

Gifted and Talented have their say at LPA

Lydiard Park Academy’s lead teachers for gifted and talented pupils Sophie Hesten and Emma Al-Hassani - recently hosted a forum where the pupils had the opportunity to share their ideas about what they want from lessons and extra-curricular activities in their chosen subjects.

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Explaining the event Emma said: “We invited over 100 pupils to take part and they worked in break out groups to gather ideas. They were very engaged and keen to volunteer the information.

“Basically they asked for more project work and more interaction with one another. They would also welcome greater challenges, and more fun and creative activities related to their subjects. These are all aspects of teaching and learning which will translate very well for all students, not just the gifted and talented.”

The staff also use a one to one mentoring scheme to identify work experience and to help students understand the next steps to take to meet their aspirations.

Commenting on the importance of nurturing the pupils’ enthusiasm as well as keeping a realistic perspective, Emma said: “We want to give them as much opportunity as possible to raise their aspirations through master classes, session 6 clubs and school trips. But we also want to link to the outside world and involve parents in celebrating achievements too.”

14/12/2012 11:50

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Red Oaks says farewell to dynamic head There were lots of cheers and tears shed at a surprise farewell assembly on 20 December held to celebrate Red Oaks headteacher Terri Menham.

Thinking she could slip away without ceremony Terri was met by an outpouring of appreciation for her work by colleagues and children.

Terri was appointed to launch Red Oaks Primary School before it opened in 2006, having done the same at Peatmoor primary in 1999. She said: “After 17 years in headship it was time to move on and free myself from the school timetable, and from conforming to the education strategy of the government of the day.

“It’s a rare thing to have the opportunity to launch a brand new school; to do it twice has been a blessing.

“For me education is about children, children, children. Creating an environment where they become excited and inspired to learn whatever their abilities has always been central to my outlook. And I’ve had an incredible team around me at Red Oaks to achieve this. They give hugely to instill the love of learning in the children.”

Terri said there had been so

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Terri Menham at the Red Oaks pre-Olympics celebration last summer

many incredible events at Red Oaks since it opened, from an outstanding Ofsted in 2010, to the visit by the Fonz to celebrate the school’s commitment to dyslexia support and inclusion of all children, the trips to France, the development of a global curriculum and the friendship with schools in South Africa and Lesotho.

“It’s all been about promoting values for life, helping children to become thoughtful and respectful citizens and give them the confidence to move on to secondary school,” said Terri.

See the full story and more pictures at www.swindonlink.com

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Butterflies staff line up with X Factor finalist Jahmene

How can Musical Minis help your child be ... .. a skillful communicator - by developing language and co-ordination. .. emotionally developed - through sharing stories and songs whilst meeting new friends. .. a confident child - by joining in the activities in a relaxed group atmosphere. .. a creative child - by exploring instruments, sounds, rhythm and movement.

Phone Chrissie on 01793 725259 www.musicalminis.co.uk

Musical Minis is a pre-school fun time music group for babies and toddlers.

Each structured session encourages cognitive, physical and emotional development through the use of music, instruments and stories.

The ladies who run North Swindon children’s centre Butterflies at Abbey Meads School took their chance to meet a star on 5 December and were rewarded when Jahmene Douglas and his X Factor mentor Nicole Scherzinger took a moment to pose with them.

Jahmene was in town to whip up asked if Jahmene would have his "Jahmene didn't say anything; support for the final on 8 December, picture taken with her colleagues. he was enigmatic and relaxed, he meeting former colleagues at Asda She said: "The producer said he seemed to have taken fame in his Walmart, friends at his church, and would see what could be done and stride. Nicole thanked us for our to sing in front of 28,000 at the town told us to be ready. comments about what she was centre Christmas lights switch on.

“It was a long shot but true to wearing. We're all grateful that they Jahmene and Nicole arrived by their word Jahmene and Nicole took a minute out of their busy day helicopter landing at Abbey Meads were asked to stand behind the to be with us."

School field in front of the children Butterflies banner and they were • See X Factor Xmas lights picture who had been told of a surprise happy to pose with us. at ow.ly/fS8jj and ow.ly/fQIWn visitor a few minutes beforehand. Jahmene and Nicole with Butterflies team members from left to right: Maureen As the cars to take the stars away Purcell, Catherine Talmage, Jayne Holloway, Cath Ferguson and centre manager were parked right outside Butter- Tanya Parkinson flies, administrator Amanda Wray

Salt Way Children’s Centre Pearl Road, Middleleaze Swindon SN5 5TD Tel: 01793 465364

GERMAN GROUP - Run/organised by parents This is a friendly German speaking toddler group which runs on Friday mornings 10am to 11.30am at Salt Way Children’s Centre.

We chat, play and sing in German, so if you or your child would like to learn more about the German language or culture, please come and join us.

See our activities timetable at www.childrenssociety.org.uk/saltwaycc

Children’s centre services threatened

Swindon Council’s cabinet agreed in December to group 14 children’s centres across the borough into four clusters and thereby save £190,000 annually by cutting the jobs of up to ten managers.

Cllr David Renard, cabinet member for children services, said the aim is to support the most disadvantaged families regardless of which area they live in.

Foodbank prepares for even greater demand for emergency help in 2013

Greendown Playgroup in Grange Park collected tinned and dried food for Swindon Foodbank in early December which will add to stocks being built up ready for major changes in the welfare benefits system.

Lee Thompson with Greendown Playgroup children’s collection for Foodbank

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Project manager Lee Thompson said calls on Foodbank in 2012 were 35 per cent higher than 2011 and he is planning for the impact of the Welfare Reform Act in April and the introduction of Universal Credit later in the year.

But he wanted to stress Swindon Foodbank is not only about supporting people on benefits. “If sickness prevents you from working, or you lose your job suddenly, or if you’re hit by a sudden expense which throws your family into cri-

sis, we’re there in an emergency,” said Lee. “A little bit of help to provide food for a few days can make all the difference and prevent people turning to high interest lenders and getting into a spiral of debt.”

Playgroup manager Julie Seward said: “We explained to the children that there were some like them who would not have enough food at Christmas time. There was a super response from parents who filled two large boxes with donations.” www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk

12/12/2012 15:59

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Scrapstore desperate for new home

Swindon Scrapstore reopens on 8 January but unless they have a new home by 31 January they will be evicted from Bridgemead Business Centre (the former Farepak warehouse) which is due for demolition.

They hope to rent a Swindon Council building, but may have to take on a commercial premises. If you can offer several thousand square feet contact Olivia McCann on 07739 023290.

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 and now’s the time to register for two courses coming up: • MEND 5 - 7 from Wednesday 23 January at the Oasis; • MEND 7 - 13 from Tuesday 22 January at Link Centre.

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

Fitness and childcare at Link Centre

The Link Centre is one of the few leisure centres in Swindon that provides a creche. It is Ofsted registered and available for children 0 to 4 years old.

The service can be used while participating in any activity in the building and runs on: Mon & Tues: 9.15am to 12.15pm; Wed & Fri 9.15am to 12pm.

For details and to book classes and a creche place visit Link Centre reception or see www.swindon. gov.uk/link

The Kirsty Farrow Dance Academy

Burn off that festive food for free Feel fitter, have fun and meet new people by joining a free Health Walk.

Led by trained volunteers and open to everyone, the friendly groups organised by Challenge Swindon meet once a week and step out at a fairly brisk pace to cover two to three miles in 45 minutes.

It’s not power walking and nobody is left behind. Everyone then heads back for a cuppa and chat. Join a Swindon health walk on: Monday: Lower Shaw Farm, 2pm Tuesday: Broadgreen Community Centre, 10am

Toothill Community Centre, 10am Wednesday: Buckhurst Community Centre, Walcot, 10am Thursday: Ellendune Centre, Wroughton, 10am

Haydon Wick Community Centre, 10am

St John’s Church, Parks and Walcot, 3.45pm Friday: Pinehurst Community Centre, 10.00am (from 11 January)

Derryck Evans House, Liden, 10.30am Everyone joining a Health Walk for the first time in January will receive a calorie-counting pedometer. (one per person). See details at www. challengeswindon.org.uk or call Amanda Rothwell on 01793 465413.

Football game in May aims to raise money for Hop, Skip and Jump

Cordon Insurance from Trowbridge has donated a full Nike football kit to support a charity game between a local team and former professionals, many with a connection to Swindon Town FC, to raise money for the West Swindon based family respite care centre.

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From left, Stuart Baker of DAS, Michael Lowe, manager of Hop, Skip and Jump, Kelvin Hall, John Cordon of Cordon Insurance and Ann Loader of DAS

John Cordon, managing director of his insurance company, said he had received a letter of appeal sent by event organiser Kelvin Hall on the same morning he had been informed that his business had earned an incentive offered by DAS Legal Services to pay for charity sports kit.

The game is set for the County Ground on 25 May and Kelvin has over 6,000 tickets to sell as well as lots of raffle prizes to collect. Proceeds will be donated to Hop, Skip and Jump which supports children with learning and physical difficulties and their families.

To donate prizes to Kelvin’s fundraiser, call him on 07428 789465.

1-18 January 13.indd 17

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13/12/2012 15:47

18 swindonlink.com • January 2013

Puppy walkers being recruited

Guide Dogs are once again looking to recruit volunteer puppy walkers in the Swindon area.

Swindon Guide Dogs for the Blind are bringing together puppies and their walkers in The Brunel Centre on Saturday 16 February so that potential volunteers can discuss in detail the role and responsibilities involved in preparing a puppy to help a visually-impaired or blind person to get their mobility, freedom and independence back.

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Could you climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in Cumbria, England and Snowdon in Wales in three days?

Sighted and visually-impaired people are being recruited to take on the challenge.

The event is being organised by fully qualified mountain instructor Brian Hall of Rocky Ventures, and will take place in July or August.

Accommodation and transport will be provided and full training given.

For details about taking part, including costs and raising sponsorship, contact Lisa Kennet: lisakennet@btinternet.com.

Ensure your bike is safe to ride

BIKES ON SHOW All shapes, sizes and prices at:

SWINDON CYCLES SUPER STORE

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

With more and more people using bikes to get to work and for leisure, it’s more important than ever to ensure their equipment is in the best working order possible.

Having brakes, pedals, handle- Store will both sell you good quality bars, gears and the chain set up bikes at great prices and get you on correctly is key to safety, so is mak- the road safely. ing sure spokes are tight and wheel Phil Mitchell, The Bike Doctor on rims are true. page 3, has over 35 years experiBikes bought over the internet ar- ence maintaining cycles. rive flat packed and unless you are And if you want to learn how to competent at putting it together cor- look after your bike there are six rectly, it’s worth getting somebody free one day courses offered by with experience to assemble it, or Swindon Travel Choices in January, check over what you’ve done. The February and March. See the advert implications of incorrect assembly below left. can be a difficult to ride bike, damA local business will always give age to parts which will be expensive personal service, but if you believe to replace, or the possibility of an you can make a saving online, there accident. is no substitute for ensuring the bike The same applies to unused or is safe to use. second hand bikes.

• Swindon Travel Choices promotes Cycle retailers Swindon Cycles different transport options. See the Superstores and the Big Adventure newsletter on page 47.

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Being able to fix basic things like brakes and gears, flat tyres, and keep the bike well cleaned and lubricated will not only save you money but will also help to ensure you get as many worry free rides as possible.

• FREE gait analysis • Running shoes & clothing • Wetsuits • Repairs & custom builds • Cycle workshop • Bike fitting jig

With a few relatively inexpensive tools and some instruction most people can take care of the routine servicing on their bikes.

Swindon Travel Choices is running a series of FREE one day Bike Maintenance courses for local residents in West Swindon on Saturdays 9am to 4pm:

12th January • 2nd March • 9th March at Roughmoor Community Hall, Swinley Drive, Peatmoor 26th January • 9th February • 23rd February at Freshbrook Community Centre You will work on your own bike but the trainer will provide work stands, tools and work gloves.

Places are limited.

To book contact Lew Lawton on 01793 763162 or e-mail: cycle.medic@btinternet.com with your postcode and phone number.

1-18 January 13.indd 18

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13/12/2012 09:40

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Swindon DOES do Arts

Helen Miah, Swindon Council Commissioner Leisure, Libraries & Culture, responds to the view of Swindon The Opera writer and producer Matt Fox in the December Link that the council is not supporting arts activity Those of us who live or work in Swindon and actively take part in the arts scene know that despite how it’s sometimes portrayed, Swindon is not a cultural desert.

Swindon has a rich cultural history and thriving community arts scene and there are any number of organisations and individuals who contribute - or who have contributed - to the development of the arts community in Swindon.

It would be wrong to single any out but for starters there’s nature writer and novelist Richard Jefferies, Harold Jolliffe who oversaw the opening of the country’s first dedicated municipal Arts Centre, mural artist Ken White, awardwinning Swindon Film Society, world renowned XTC, nationally recognised Swindon Dance, artists collective Artsite, current media darling Jahmene Douglas, and of course many, many more.

Defining what is meant by ‘arts’ is always going to be tricky. If you take The Arts Council’s broad definition it includes activities that some may not even consider an art form, such as embroidery, pottery, crochet, jewellery-making, carnivals, design and digital arts. 99 per cent of the population engage with the arts in some way, whether that’s watching a child in a school play, singing in a community choir, listening to some great music or reading an inspiring book.

Art is part of our daily lives; it enriches and nourishes us. Without it… well, it doesn’t bear thinking about, does it?

The Swindon Does Arts (SDA) network and brand was established in 2008 by a partnership of arts organisations and individuals all of whom are passionate about the arts and Swindon.

The aim was to raise the profile of all things artistic and creative in our town, to challenge the cultural desert perception and demonstrate just how much arts activity there really is in Swindon.

The SDA logo was created by local designer Mark Pepperall and anyone and everyone who shares the belief that Swindon Does Arts is welcome to download and use it. Whilst the Swindon Borough Council Arts team help provide some admin for SDA it really isn’t a ‘council’ project.

Over the last few years the Swindon Does Arts partnership has worked on several projects, including the Big Arts Day, which built on the success of Radio 1’s Big Weekend back in 2009.

The aim of the Big Arts Day was After two summer Big Arts Days in to celebrate and showcase all things Lydiard Park to showcase the town’s artistic and creative in Swindon, wide ranging arts and cultural scene providing a free platform for all the severe financial constraints be- community artists, organisations ing suffered by Swindon Council and those engaged in the sector means that funding is no longer to share their art. available for any further festivals.

While it is with regret and sad-

19 - 48 January 13.indd 19

ness that the curtain has had to be pulled down on this festival, the work continues to promote the arts in Swindon. In these extremely challenging economic times it’s going to be even more important that the arts sector works collectively to promote the array of activities in the town.

The newly upgraded Swindon Does Arts website is just the place to do this. The content is user driven and everyone involved in the arts is encouraged to join, upload a profile, news, images, events and even videos.

Helen at last summer’s Big Arts Day

www.swindondoesarts.co.uk • Art groups prices hike on page 22

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14/12/2012 10:33

20

Swindon Wide

the bigger picture Author takes The Link to Swindon Books

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Swindon children’s author Neil Griffiths returned in early December from a visit to Hong Kong and China where he ran early years’ reading workshops at after-school centres and schools.

In China he toured remote schools for the charity Reading Dreams where there is a huge desire for children to learn English, and to talk to publishers about producing his 32 books in Chinese. Neil said: “Parents in the more rural parts are desperate for their children to learn English so that they can keep up with those in the better resourced urban areas.

Neil holding Swindon Link in front of Swindon Books with another British name reflected in the shop window “Having been to China a few times now I’ve been struck by how few municating was a bit of a surprise all the actions to make the stories works and as the shop is close to the terminus of the railway line which illustrated children’s books there at first but the children and parents come alive.”

Whilst in Hong Kong Neil paid a connects Kowloon to all the major are. My interactive way of com- were soon off their seats and doing visit to Swindon Book Co. in Kowloon cities of China, the coincidence of where he posed with The Link. factors made Swindon Books an In the October 2002 edition auspicious choice. ◆ Your local family hairdresser of Swindon Council’s magazine Ms Li said: “With hindsight, it is ◆ 25% discount for Seniors Swindon News, company director also fortuitous that we bear the Call now for an appointment Daisy Li explained the business was name of a city that is the selected established in 1918 but adopted the headquarters of the best-known on 01793 871120 new name in 1936 when it moved high street bookseller in the UK or 07967 363322 to new premises. It was fashionable WH Smith.”

WragAdvert_SL_Jan12.pdf 1 04/08/2011 21:54 By Sue for commercial enterprises to have Swindon Book Co. and associatHOME VISITS AVAILABLE a western name, often a capital city ed companies now have six outlets like London, Paris or New York. and stocks the most comprehensive The manager of the time Lee range of English language books Kin used two Chinese characters and magazines in the region. meaning ‘making a breakthrough at It is also a major supplier of eduthe auspicious hour.’The anglicised cational textbooks to the enormous version the local Cantonese dialect educational market, from primary to pronunciation sounds like ‘Swindon.’ university level.

Apparently Mr Lee knew of the www.swindonbooks.com town’s Great Western Railway See Neil: www.cornertolearn.co.uk

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Singers wanted to rehearse for major work

Swindon Choral Society will welcome new singers when it starts rehearsals on Thursday 10 January. 7.30pm, for a performance of JS Bach’s St John Passion which will take place on Saturday 23 March in Marlborough College Chapel.

Rehearsals take place at Freshbrook Church. For details contact Kath Danswan on 01793 533268 or via www.swindonchoral.org.uk

Sarah has the sweetest job in Swindon

Sarah Doyle-Simpkins from Oakhurst found herself the sweetest job there is when she set up FizzyWizzySweetcart two and a half years ago.

Explaining the idea behind her business, Sarah said: “I wanted an old-fashioned wooden sweet cart at my wedding but couldn’t find one locally. So that gave me the idea to set up my own.”

The FizzyWizzySweetcart is perfect for weddings, christenings, parties, charity and corporate events, with flexible hire packages to suit different budgets. The hire period is three hours, and the cart is available manned or unmanned, with or without Sarah’s sweets. And

19 - 48 January 13.indd 20

what makes FizzyWizzySweetcart unique is that the sweetcart canopy, ribbons and sweetbags can be colour coordinated to match the colour theme of the event.

Describing the range of sweets she offers, Sarah said: “We have about 150 sweets currently in the range, including American, vintage and retro sweets that take us back to our childhood. The most popular are cola cubes, flying saucers, white mice and shrimps.”

Call Sarah via her advert left.

14/12/2012 11:53

Swindon Wide

Writers learn from each other

Twelve budding Swindon writers gathered at Basepoint Business Centre in West Swindon in November to hear from crime author Jen Hilborne about different publishing approaches and how to promote work on the internet - and she’s holding another workshop in February.

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Jenny Hilborne, centre, with writing workshop participants

Jen, who has had two novels published by a traditional publisher as well as self-publishing her third, provided attendees with lots of new ideas and food for thought to get their writing out to the world, with particular emphasis on using social media as a promotional tool.

Children’s author Angela James from Swindon, whose first book The Golden Moonbeam was published

last year, found the workshop content invaluable, and commented: “It’s been brilliant, and I now feel I can start to make sense of all the social media sites to get my book out there.”

Owing to the popularity of the session Jen has agreed to run another free writers’ workshop on 2 February. To book a place mail: Juliet@ treetopscommunications.co.uk

Deepen your journal writing experience at Lower Shaw Farm this spring

Following the publication of The Journal Writer’s Handbook, Swindon Link writer Juliet Platt is offering a brand new course of eight weekly journal-writing workshops beginning on 20 February at Lower Shaw Farm.

Explaining her book topic, Juliet “Now I’m keen to deepen the said: “I have always kept a journal experience by spending longer on in some form or other, and have each of the exercises and techfound this kind of writing practice niques and provide more writing extremely motivating and inspiring. time. There is absolutely no obligaAs a personal development coach I tion to share any of your writing, saw the potential of reflective writ- yet there’s something very special ing to help us coach ourselves, so about writing reflectively alongside I wrote the handbook to encourage others – a perfect way to spend a others to give journal writing a try.” spring evening.”

Juliet has delivered two well reThe 8 week course costs £80 ceived introductory journal writing per person and will take place on workshops. “Previous participants Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm found the introductory workshops to 9.30pm. To reserve a space mail: C quite eye-opening because, with Juliet@treetopscommunications.

M the right intention and focus, our co.uk journals can reveal things to us we • Follow The Journal Writer’s HandY never knew were there,” she said. book on Facebook.

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Wedding Fayre Sunday 20th

January 11am to 3pm

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Local wedding exhibitors Bridal competition • Free entry Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, West Swindon 01793 878785

www.wedding-fayre.co.uk Organised by ADP Limited. Tel: 01793 840000

19 - 48 January 13.indd 21

13/12/2012 15:56

Swindon Wide

22

Spiralling venue costs threaten community arts groups

For decades Swindon gained a national reputation for excellence in its wealth of amateur performing arts’ opportunities, as well as its vibrant cultural community comprising film-goers, writers, readers, thinkers and poets. However, as austerity measures threaten arts’ subsidies in other parts of the UK, established groups in the town are facing an uncertain future due to the inflated costs of using venues such as the Wyvern Theatre and the Arts Centre in Old Town.

Swindon Film Society has been enjoying a varied programme of fringe and foreign cinema for 65 years, and its 300 members are very satisfied that the Arts Centre auditorium is the perfect venue for its activities. However, the cost of using the council-owned venue has increased by over 100 per cent in the past three years, a situation which society organiser Barbara Hoffbauer finds very difficult.

She said: “Our members love the Arts Centre but when the cost of showing a film has gone from £210 to £430 in the space of a couple of years, the viability of it has become precarious. We run the society voluntarily and it’s very stressful to be faced with such financial risks.”

In November Arts Centre hirers met with Cllr Garry Perkins, cabinet member for Regeneration and Culture, to express their concerns.

Commenting on the meeting Barbara said: “Cllr Perkins assured us that we wouldn’t face another price hike next year. So as long as that’s the case we will continue to work with the Arts Centre.”

The musical theatre company

Stagestruck, which is approaching the thirtieth anniversary of its debut performance, has traditionally taken over the Wyvern for one week in May, but prohibitive cost prevented use of the venue in 2012.

Explaining the situation, Stagestruck producer Geoff Marsh said: “The venue charge for the week in May 2011 was over 80 per cent of our ticket sales, which is unsustainable when I’ve got musicians and other major costs to cover.

“In 2012 we moved to the Arts Centre, which was better financially but it wasn’t necessarily what our audience wanted, because they prefer the Wyvern.

Because the Arts Centre is smaller we had to reduce the size of the company by half, as well as employ fewer musicians which fell short of our renowned high quality of presentation.”

The Wyvern has been under the management of HQ Theatres, a subsidiary of Qdos Productions Ltd, since it reopened in September 2007 following the council’s £1.3m refurbishment of the venue. Geoff perceives that although the Wyvern

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has been a proud supporter of local societies’ work in the past, there has been a gradual reduction of local amateur performances.

Expressing his frustration Geoff said: “I find it quite shocking. I don’t think the management is interested in amateur companies and the council is either not controlling the management or can’t. Our amateur arts community is at the heart of the town but the lack of support from Swindon Council is killing us.”

In a statement Wyvern Theatre marketing manager Richard Loftus said: “The Wyvern is passionate about engaging the local community in various outreach projects. We have not seen a huge decline in

hires by local performing groups, although these often change. We are delighted that groups from outside Swindon are also making use of the Wyvern.

“Stagestruck last performed at the Wyvern Theatre in 2011. We have always had an excellent relationship with Geoff Marsh. When Geoff took the decision not to perform at the Wyvern, he took the time to say how supportive the theatre and its staff have always been to them.

“Whilst Stagestruck may not have performed here in 2012, it does not reflect a reduction in presentations by amateur companies at the Wyvern. Nor does it reflect our relationship with community groups.”

Film festival programme launches on 1 February

Organisers of the award winning Swindon Film Society are making final preparations for its 2013 Festival, which will run from 2 to 10 March.

SFS secretary Barbara Hoffbau- television station. ������������ www.swindoner, said a great deal of organisation viewpoint.com is required well before the event.

The SFS programme will also “As in the last couple of years, include some exciting footage made we’re planning to take the festival to by the early pioneers of film and venues around and about Swindon, aviation history, working in partneras well as the town centre. ship with English Heritage and their “This works really well and gives Britain From Above project www. us the opportunity to bring together britainfromabove.org.uk films to suit all ages and tastes. But it does mean a lot of juggling to sort out when all the possible venues are available, to make sure we’ve got enough projection equipment and volunteers to run the events before we put the final timetable together.

At the same time we have to source the films. We leave the final programme decisions as late as possible because release dates can change.

Last year we had to make a late substitution just as we were about to publish the programme, so we’re making sure we have plenty of alternatives on our short-list."

Although the final pro- A shot from Beasts of the Southern Wild gramme is still under wraps, BarThe festival programme will be bara says the line-up is very likely launched and the box office opened to include films like Ken Loach's on 1 February. However confirmed latest comedy drama The Angels' films will be posted at www.swinShare and newcomer Benh Zeitlin's donfilmfestival.org during January.

Beasts of the Southern Wild, which Film makers wanted wowed the audience and judges at Young and emerging film makers the recent London Film Festival.

This year SFS will be celebrating can enter the Swindon heat of the fortieth anniversary of Swindon the Preloader Film competition on Viewpoint, Britain’s first and only Tuesday 4 March. See details at continuously operating community www.createstudios.org.uk

13/12/2012 16:02

Swindon Town Centre January 2013

www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

New Year New You

For Business For Shopping For Leisure

Inside

Overdone it a little this Christmas?

this edition...

Come down and shape your New Year image with all that’s on offer in Swindon town centre!

Whether it’s a pound-shifting fitness programme, revitalising beauty treatment or stylish new haircut you’re after, you can find it all in and around the town centre.

p2 Look back at 2012

And with the January sales about to get into full swing, you will be hard pressed not to find a bargain as you start 2013 with a bang.

Eradicate your holiday weight!

Swindon town centre’s various food outlets are the perfect place to start your New Year health-kick.

Holland & Barrett and GNC both in The Brunel are packed full of the naturally produced fruits, nuts, vitamins and minerals that you need for a healthy diet, and is the ideal way to detox after the excesses of Christmas.

a sport. Swindon town centre boasts a number of sports shops, and you can purchase all sorts of equipment from the likes of Don Rogers Sports, ATB, Golf Fore All, JD Sports and Sports Soccer. Or if you don’t fancy doing anything too strenuous, why not pick up some walking boots and gain fitness at your leisure in the stunning local countryside?

Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco also offer a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and meats to help you shed those pounds! Once you’ve started eating properly, it’s a case of getting active, and there is no better way to do this than taking up

There are various shops that stock a fantastic variety of shoes, clothing and equipment for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors this year.

With all this and more on offer in the town centre, there really is no excuse for starting 2013 on the wrong track!

Treat yourself!

Just because you’re cutting back, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t allow yourself a little luxury in January, and a beauty treatment could be just what you need to hit the ground running this year.

Numerous sessions are available with the likes of aqua-G and OMG

- all you need to do is ask the friendly staff for advice, and you will be looking fabulous in no time!

As well as this, both Superdrug and Boots have large stores in the town centre, offering a range of products that will help cleanse that postChristmas fatigue.

p3 Jahmene Douglas in picture

p4 New Year, New You

And if you’re after something a little more unique, then why not try the Body Shop on Regent Street or Lush on Canal Walk.

Whatever you choose, you are sure to see in the New Year with a smile on your face with Swindon town centre!

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

14/12/2012 09:06

A look back at 2012...

Swindon Town Centre

Well, what a year 2012 was...

An eventful twelve months that has seen the celebrations of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the success of the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics and Jahmene taking part in the X Factor!

So here it is, the inSwindon snap shots of 2012.

2

Everything you need to know for 2013 at www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

19 - 48 January 13.indd 24

14/12/2012 09:07

A look back at 2012...

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.

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

Everything you need to know for 2013 at www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

19 - 48 January 13.indd 25

3

14/12/2012 09:07

New year...

Swindon Town Centre

Get fit for 2013!

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, making lifestyle changes like exercising more or cutting down on alcohol and cigarettes tends to top the list.

Around 7 million of us will make a New Year’s resolution to improve our health, but sticking to it can be tough particularly through the dark winter months ahead.

For some, joining a gym in the New Year is an ideal way of incorporating more physical activity into their lives, and research shows that regular physical activity can have the added benefit of increasing life expectancy.

WIN WIN WIN This is why we have teamed-up with Kiss Gym to give away a 12 month membership.

To enter simply go to www.swindontowncentre.co.uk and visit the competition section of the website.

Check out our new website!

To celebrate a fantastic year we are launching our new interactive website.

We know how important it is to keep our visitors up to date so we have taken this into consideration with our new, easy to use, website.

Offering competitions, picture galleries and a complete guide to all the shops situated in Swindon, it’s the perfect place to visit to enhance your shopping experience.

Find out what’s happening in the town with events and offers as well as hottest features with style advice, where to go on a night out and gift guides.

Launched now! Simply visit www. swindontowncentre.co.uk for more information.

And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter @inswindon and on Facebook inSwindon BID Company.

Happy New Year from all at inSwindon!

19 - 48 January 13.indd 26

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14/12/2012 09:08

Swindon Wide

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Bringing the town’s heritage to life

A new high quality magazine celebrating Swindon’s rich history is set to be published at the end of January.

Swindon Heritage is the brainchild of local historians Mark Sutton and Frances Bevan, and is edited by Graham Carter, who put together the Swindon Advertiser’s Chronicle of Swindon in 2006.

Mark Sutton is an authority on the First World War and was the author of Tell Them of Us, a record of Swindon men who fought in the Great War, but he explained the new magazine would cover many different topics and eras.

He said: “We have such a proud heritage, and so much work has been done by local historians in Swindon and the surrounding towns and villages, that we thought some way of showing it off was needed.

“We had the idea for a glossy, high quality magazine about a year ago, and although some people thought that was too ambitious, the first edition is now almost ready to go to the printers.

“Thanks to the faith and the generosity of some key local historians, including Paul Williams and Bob Townsend from the Swindon Society, and a few others who shared our vision from the beginning, the magazine will be published by the end of January.”

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But he said he is most pleased by the response from young people. “The magazine has been designed to appeal to all kinds of people, and not just preach to the converted. However, anybody with a passion for local heritage will tell you that the biggest challenge these days is how to engage youngsters.

“We are already working with Commonweal School and we’re delighted that our first edition includes an excellent feature by one of their

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Watch this space...

Bringing Swindon Heritage together: Mark, Graham and Frances and a key figure in the town’s story

A website called Swindon Heritage Extra will be launched to complement the quarterly magazine.

Mark, Frances and Graham have joined forces with Steve Cooper from the Mechanics’ Institute Trust, who secured enough funding to get the project off the ground. The trust is providing office facilities, managerial support and other services.

“I think this shows what community groups can achieve when they work together,” said Mark. “We are really optimistic because of the positive feedback we are getting

19 - 48 January 13.indd 27

students. Nothing would please us more than to get other students and schools involved.

“We feel very strongly that everybody should be proud of their roots, and our main aim is for Swindon Heritage to make everybody in our area realise what a fantastic history we have.”

Details of where to obtain the magazine and the website launch will be announced in January at www.swindonlink.com If you have a historical story to tell contact Mark Sutton: mark@ swindonheritage.co.uk.

for details of a new phase of development for early 2013 To register your interest, call us on 01793 722100 and quote ref: LINK A relaxing & secure lifestyle for the over 50s

www.pineview.co.uk

Blunsdon St Andrew, Swindon SN25 2DU

12/12/2012 18:42

28

Mobile Hair & Beauty

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

Now also offering waxing treatments

JANUARY OFFER WET CUT £12.00 Call for an appointment 07584 628 123

kellysmobilehairandbeauty

Earn extra money and choose your own hours Avon Representatives and Sales Leaders required (18+).

For details call or text Sarah Magill on 07766 881075

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Sunday 13th, 7.30pm The Barron Knights: The Soundtrack Of Our Lives. One of the most entertaining groups to come out of the 60s and 70s. £16.50. Arts Centre Saturday 19th, 7pm Adriana Beaumont-Thomas: Chopin, The Heart Of The Romantic.

Adriana plays Chopin’s most poignant pieces, including Polonaise “Heroic”, Nocturne in C Sharp Minor and Waltz op 64 no 2 in C sharp Minor as well as two of her newest piano compositions. £12. Arts Centre Sunday 20th, 7.30pm It’s a Disco Night. A disco sing-along featuring a live band and a big screen with all the lyrics. £18.50. Wyvern Wednesday 23rd, 1.05pm

Fun is bow-shaped!

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

Roves Farm A great day out, come rain or shine

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

19 - 48 January 13.indd 28

Tuesday 15th, 7.30pm; Wednesday 16th, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Swan Lake presented by the Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia.

The greatest romantic ballet of all time. From £30. Wyvern Thursday 17th, 7.30pm Coppelia presented by the Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia.

Every toy has a story, especially in this charming comedy of errors with a witty combination of antics and abracadabra set in a dollmaker’s workshop. From £30. Wyvern

Comedy

Lunchtime recital: Korean concert pianist Joy Walker plays a dramatic programme including some of the most popular composers. £5; tea & cake £3.50. Wyvern Monday 28 January to Saturday 2 February. Mon to Thurs 7.30pm; Fri 5pm & 8pm; Sat 4pm & 8pm Soul Sister. A brand new musical full of heart and soul, featuring many classic hits and electrifying choreography. £18 - £30.50. Wyvern

Theatre

Sevenhampton, Nr. Highworth, Swindon, Wilts.

SN6 7QG 01793 763939

Dance

Monday 7th to Saturday 12th. Mon - Fri 7.30pm; Wed 2.30pm; Sat 4pm & 8pm The Woman In Black. Adapted from the novel by Susan Hill, The Woman In Black is one of the most chilling tales to be staged. £18 - £26. Wyvern.

See Talk below Monday 28th & Tuesday 29th, 7.30pm Beautiful Thing presented by TS Theatre Productions. Jonathan Harvey’s urban fairytale, a portrayal of first love between teenagers Jamie and Ste, is both funny and gentle. £10. Arts Centre

Talk

Wednesday 9th, 12noon Susan Hill, author of The Woman in Black talks about the book’s transition from page to stage to screen. Free when buying tickets to the play, but must be booked in advance. Wyvern

Saturday 12th, 8pm Julie Jepson: Personal Triumph.

Julie takes a lighthearted look at the challenges and triumphs of day to day life. Age 18+. £7. Arts Centre Studio.

Friday 18th, 7.30pm Circus of Horrors. An outrageous show packed with new shocks that will take you on a whirlwind journey like a bat out of hell. £20. Wyvern Friday 18th, 8pm Oliver Reed:WildThing. Rob Crouch brings Oliver Reed back to vivid life in this swaggering, brilliant solo show.

Age 14+. £12. Arts Centre Sunday 27th, 7.30pm Harry Hill tries out new material in his latest show Experiments in Entertainment. £21. Wyvern Thursday 31st, 8pm Katherine Ryan: Nature’s Candy.

Sweeter than that first bite of fresh lemon from the tree, the awardwinning comedian Katherine Ryan proves the things in life that make us bitter can actually be hilariously delicious. Age 16+. £12. Arts Centre

Meeting to discuss complementary therapies in Swindon

Residents interested in the provision of complementary therapies and alterantive medicines are invited to a public meeting at New College on Saturday 12 January, 2pm to 5pm, in advance of a discussion by Swindon Health Overview Scrutiny Committee.

For details contact: karyse@ hotmail.co.uk

14/12/2012 10:19

On in January

Children & Family

Until Sunday 6th Aladdin. Keith Chegwin stars. £14.50 - £23. Wyvern Saturday 12th, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life.

Normal admission charges. STEAM Friday 25th & Saturday 26th, 7.30pm Snow White and the D.W.A.R.V.E.S. presented by Thames Water Amateur Theatrical Society. Plenty of slapstick humour and audience participation. £10. Wyvern

Film

Wednesday 9th, 7.45pm A Royal Affair (15) A young queen falls in love with her physician - and together they start a revolution that changes a nation forever. In Danish with subtitles. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 16th, 7.45pm Breathing (15) An Austrian 19 year old is coming out of prison and trying to build a new life but he can’t deal with his guilt. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 30th, 7.45pm Headhunters (15) An accomplished Norwegian business executive risks everything to obtain a valuable painting owned by a former mercenary.

SFS Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

29

Exhibition

16 January, 3pm to 9pm

D & L Blinds

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

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

Celebrating Swindon & Wiltshire Photography. Local photographers showcase their work in vacant high spec office space. Organised by Designs By Jules in association with Lily & Myfanwy Exhibitions and Events.

For an invitation contact jessica@ lilyandmyfanwy.co.uk, or call 07867 556100. Station Square, 1 Gloucester Street, Swindon SN1 1GW

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

www.dandlblinds.co.uk FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

Epic Hair

Welcoming Tracey Terrett

January offer: Wet Cut £12 to 31.1.13

Right, Tracey & Sheralee

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

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 Information Centre Central Library. Tel: 530328 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

Covering Swindon news from all angles Pictures by

01793 520131 www.calyxpix.com

Sportswindon.com

Press, PR, Sport, Photography & Video

@home in January Wednesday 2nd, 7.45pm

Basingstoke Bison Saturday 12th, 5.45pm

Bracknell Bees Sunday 20th, 6pm

Milton Keynes Lightning Sunday 27th, 6pm

Slough Jets - KIDS FOR FREE

19 - 48 January 13.indd 29

13/12/2012 16:06

30

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Link pool re-opening set for 11 February

What was thought to be a straightforward six-week re-tiling job at the Link Centre pool starting at the end of last July turned out to be anything but when major repairs were found to be needed.

As a result it’s been closed ever corroded, as was building, opened hopefully be completed in early since , but council staff and specialist much of the metal in 1985, is starting February. contractors have been working hard pipework. Repairs to show its age Cllr Keith Williams, Swindon to make sure everything is on track were also needed - the scaffolding Council’s Cabinet member for for the planned re-opening date of to the filtering and surrounding the leisure and strategic transport, left, 11 February. cleaning systems. roof is testament said: “We’re sorry that the pool The pool has needed a huge The opportunity to that. As regular has had to be shut for so long, but amount of work, much of it in has also been taken users will know, it will be much better once we’ve areas invisible to anyone using it, to improve other parts of the pool, the roof leaked badly in heavy rain, finished this work. We’re grateful but vital for its smooth operation. such as the paintwork, seating and and the sight of buckets positioned for everyone’s patience.

These include the ducts around the ladders. The total cost is likely to be to catch the water had become all “Everything is in place to hit our pool that circulate the water – large around £200,000. too familiar. All this will soon be planned reopening date thanks to enough for someone to walk through The condition of the pool struc- a thing of the past, as a new roof, the real efforts that have been made - which were found to be seriously ture is not the only sign that the complete with new skylights, will by everyone involved.”

McTimoney Phil Yalden Chiropractor BSc (Hons) LCC MMCA

Beat the bulge – and the blues in 2013

The term ‘fighting fit’ is set to take on a whole new meaning when the exhilarating new martial arts-based workout programme, Les Mills Bodycombat™, hits Link Centre and the Haydon Centre in January.

Combining powerful moves from a range of gym and fitness officer explained the appeal: “There’s Gentle and effective approach self-defence disciplines, including Karate, boxing, something about the electric atmosphere of �������� Bodycomfor treating: • Backache and Taekwondo and Muay Thai, Bodycombat is a non- bat that motivates you to work harder and keep going contact workout that leaves participants feeling ready longer than you ever thought possible. You somehow back pain to conquer the world. manage to forget the fact you’re exercising and instead • Neck and

The class provides all the benefits of intense physical just lose yourself in the music and moves.” shoulder pain exercise –working the heart and lungs, and improving Bodycombat is available at: • Joint pain and co-ordination, strength and agility. The dynamic kick- Link Centre - Monday, 6pm; Wednesday, 9.30am; muscular aches ing and punching moves are also great for reducing Thursday, 8pm. stress and boosting participants’ sense of well-being. Haydon Centre - Tuesday, 6pm; Saturday, 10am.

Clinics at the Link Centre Each Bodycombat class is led by a fully-trained Classes can be enjoyed on a pay as you play basis instructor, who takes participants through a series or with all inclusive access under Swindon Council’s 07793 596 334 of pre-choreographed moves set to inspiring chart- Leisure Passport scheme. Check out the back page for chiropractor@bonyparts.co.uk topping music. details of a great New Year special offer on Leisure www.bonyparts.co.uk Darren Gunter, Swindon Council’s leisure services Passports.

New Swindon Hearing Centre Award Winning Audiologist Nick Chitty has opened a new state of the art Hearing Centre and is running an Ear Wax Removal Clinic with FREE examination • • • • • •

FREE hearing test Hearing aid demonstrations Affordable hearing aids Award winning aftercare Hearing aid service centre all makes Ear wax removal clinic

Nick Chitty Hearing Care

Ear Wax Removal Clinic Groundwell Road Dental Practice, 50 Groundwell Road, Swindon SN1 1LU (No 17-71 bus stops right outside)

Tel: 01793 530541 Mobile: 07557 053157 www.nickchitty.co.uk 19 - 48 January 13.indd 30

13/12/2012 16:08

swindonlink.com • January 2013

DO YOUR FEET NEED CARE AND ATTENTION?

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

ROBERT S TAYLOR

Tel: (01793) 887801

MCFHP MAFHP

For all your foot care needs: Pedicure, corns, calluses verrucas, thickened nails Nail infections Foot health checks and foot massage Home visit service www.swindonhealingrooms.co.uk 07503 633242

Call 01793 695302 Mob 07753 143621

31

www.shawchiropracticclinic.co.uk

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

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

FREE

SPINAL CHECKS

EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS

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

PAINFUL FEET? Mrs Lesley Taylor MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR

Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Ingrowing Toenails

PODIATRY/CHIROPODY

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 or 01793 849914

HPC registered Podiatrist

Clinic at: 113 High Street Royal Wootton Bassett

treatment in your own home

Call Katie Boichat BSc (Hons) podiatry

07823 771675 Give your feet the care and attention they deserve

FITNESS CENTRE www.lspersonaltraining.com

Missing teeth, loose dentures, unsightly gaps? private gym one to one training

GP referral fitness testing

couples & small groups

physiotherapy clinic

pay as you go classes

sports massage

Implants by Seven Fields

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth or to get rid of dentures

nutrition & weight management

acupuncture

Could they help you?

Telephone us to find out: 01793 722194 Patrick Holmes BDS GDC 67029

19 - 48 January 13.indd 31

Unit 8, Star West, Westmead Drive, Swindon SN5 7SW tel: 0845 4718416 mob: 07793 573 487 email: info@lspersonaltraining.com

12/12/2012 19:05

32

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Get fit and make friends at the new West Swindon women’s only gym

TONE FOR 2013 Fun and enjoyable

Classes £6 per hour or enjoy both classes in the same week for £10 Monday class from 7th January 7.15pm - 8.15pm Moredon School Moredon Road Thursday class from 10th January 6.30pm - 7.30pm Uplands School (based on the Isambard complex) Turn up and take part or see: www.swindonpilates.com

Would you like to ... ..tone up? ..lose weight? ..have more energy? ..get some nutrition advice? ..enjoy a healthier lifestyle? ..improve your overall fitness?

FREE • Initial consultation • Body fat testing • Posture analysis

first booking

Personal training available: £120 for 4 sessions • £224 for 8 • £300 for 12

T: 07733 225230 E : rich@121fitnesstraining.co.uk 75 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, SN5 7EX

W: 121fitnesstraining.co.uk

Lydiard Park Academy Wednesday 7pm - 8.30pm & Friday 6pm - 7pm Next Generation Saturday 11.30am - 12.30pm

Meditation

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

New Year discounts available now!

20% off

Lydiard Park Academy Friday 5.30pm - 6pm For more information 07729 228979

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Book now for just £29 (normal price £100) and receive the following: • An initial consultation • X-rays (if necessary) • A full report of the findings • Your first treatment

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TIRED OF RECURRING PAIN OR DO YOU SUFFER FROM THESE SYMPTOMS? • BACK PAIN? • STIFF NECK? • HEADACHES OR MIGRAINE? • SPORTING INJURIES? • PINS & NEEDLES? Did you know that chiropractic care could really help you?

The independent exercise centre run by ladies - for ladies A full body workout lasting 30 minutes or more using Technogym and ARKE equipment - fun for ladies of all fitness levels

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Ridgeway Medi-Spa, Next Generation 5 Larch Close, Kembrey Park, Swindon, SN2 8YS. Tel: 01793 422210 Ridgeway Chiropractic, Wroughton Fairwater Stables, 1 High Street, Wroughton, Swindon, SN4 9JX. Tel: 01793 814567

www.ridgewaymedispa.co.uk

19 - 48 January 13.indd 32

Having suffered a heart attack in 2010 Linda Scarrott, 56, knew she needed to do something about her health and fitness. But after failing to find a comfortable gym environment to get the exercise that her doctor ordered, she decided to open one herself - and SwanS health and beauty centre was born.

Based at Avebury House on Stonehill Green in Westlea, SwanS offers a ladies-only workout space, with top of the range hydraulic equipment from Technogym, supplier to Team GB, as well as qualified female instructors to guide you through the circuit.

Explaining the SwanS concept, Linda said: “When I was looking for a gym to join I was put off by the rows and rows of treadmills you get in some places. They felt very intimidating and I felt that I would be more comfortable exercising in a female environment.

“I want this to be a one-stop shop for ladies’ health, fitness and beauty needs. As well as our gym space we also offer beauty treatments and holistic therapy. Exercise classes SwanS staff, from left Lottie Cornwall, Emma Ward, Olivia Cowley include aerobics, salsacise, Fit2Box and body sculpting; we can also events in the evening with profprovide personal training to our its donated to The British Heart members.”

Foundation and Breast Cancer To help customers make the most Awareness. of their exercise sessions, in the SwanS is offering a 30 minute New Year SwanS will be launching personal training session for newweight management classes. comers. Call Linda on 01793 847249 SwanS also runs monthly social or see the advert below.

an Join on a 30 d re Now c al Tra min eive ini ute ng Se ssi on

PAY AS YOU GO PILATES

T: 01793 814567

Open Monday to Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday and Sunday 11am - 3pm We offer a wide range of fitness classes for both members and non-members Supportive and qualified staff available to work with you at all times Visit us at Avebury House, Stonehill Green, Westlea SN5 7HB Or call us now to book an appointment on 01793 847249 www.swanshealthandbeautycentre.co.uk

12/12/2012 17:24

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Down’s Syndrome Group aims to top £10k in January

Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group is running a whole week of events to raise funds and awareness of their work supporting families with Down’s Syndrome children, culminating on 18 January when group chair Jenny Williams will run and cycle 50 miles at Velocity Health & Fitness at De Vere Village, Shaw Ridge.

Explaining the need for a fund- days to raise money. developments from a representaraising push, Jenny said: “EveryThe group, affiliated to the Na- tive of the national association. This body’s cutting back: local compa- tional Down’s Syndrome Associa- event alone costs us £3,000.” nies have reduced support to local tion, provides resource packs for Mum of five Jenny is keen to charities and all the grants have newborns, pre-school and school rectify the negative press around dried up. We need £20,000 a year children, as well as coordinating Down’s Syndrome. She said: “My just to keep the group going, and speech and therapy sessions, sum- son was born with the condition hope to raise half of this in January.” mer trips, library and play sessions. and it took me about four months to Other events include a quiz Describing their support for accept it. New parents can be devnight and a disco and bingo night health care and educational profes- astated, but I want people to learn at the Star Bar in Wood Street, Old sionals in the town Jenny added: that having a Down’s Syndrome Town. Jenny is hoping that schools “Each year we sponsor a training child is not the end of the world.” around the town, especially those day for professionals who work Help Jenny via: www.mydonate. with Down’s Syndrome pupils in with Down’s Syndrome children bt.com/events/jennywilliams/92877 attendance will hold non-uniform to come and learn about the latest

Oakhurst mum takes over Jo Jingles After 10 years running Jo Jingles pre-school music, singing and movement sessions Virginia Martin has handed over the reigns to mum Susan Mulrain from Oakhurst.

Jo Jingles classes are available burner when I went into a healthcare for babies of 3 months up to 5 years. career, many moons ago.

Parents and carers are encouraged “My children all enjoyed Jo to join in with the emphasis being Jingles’ classes so I have seen the very much on fun and informality. benefits for myself. Children, parSusan decided to leave health- ents and carers love the interactive care to take up the opportunity to musical classes; it will be a pleasure run Jo Jingles classes. She said: to be a fun part of their development “My previous position became every week.” incompatible with family life so I See the Jo Jingles advert on page decided to revisit my love of singing 17 or www.jojingles.com/swindonand music that I had left on the back 2newbury

MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ. Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082

WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Francis School, Taw Hill Swindon SN25 1UH. Consultant: Heather 07816 860840

Contact Debbie Mitchell on 01793 722152 or 07745 422365

THE CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTRE CLARE DUNCAN-HAWES

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

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

Please call

01793 602454

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

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

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

Registered with GCC

TLC ... BECAUSE WE CARE!

THURSDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm Freshbrook Community Centre Worsley Rd, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8LY. Consultant: Jenny 07939 410805

19 - 48 January 13.indd 33

Monday, 7.45pm - 8.45pm Tuesday, 8pm - 9pm at Peatmoor Community Primary School Thursday, 7pm - 8pm at Isambard Community School £30 for 6 week course, booked and paid in advance

See our website for our NEW revised price list, saving YOU money

TUESDAYS 6.30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Hugo Drive Abbey Meads, Swindon, SN25 4GY. Consultant: Paula 07733 082579

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FITNESS CLASSES

Happy New Year Happy New You

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FRIDAYS 9.30am Community Room, St Francis School, Taw Hill Swindon SN25 1UH. Consultant: Heather 07816860840

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The Laser Clinic

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THURSDAYS 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Ave., Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ Consultant: Sharon 07841 119082

33

FREE PARKING at 9 Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive, Westlea, West Swindon * when you buy a 12-week Countdown course 1-26 *January when you buy a 12-week 2013 Countdown course 1-26 January 2013

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13/12/2012 09:47

34

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Ice hockey squad brings sporting spirit to Lydiard Park Academy

At the end of their first term at Lydiard Park Academy, the members of the Okanagan Hockey Academy UK (OHA UK) under 16 ice hockey squad have recently received glowing reports from academy teachers and their hockey school manager, demonstrating that the focus and passion they have for their sport is being carried over into the classroom.

Commenting on the dedication of Explaining how well the partner- for a better school to partner with. the school. All of them and their ship with Lydiard Park Academy is LPA principal Clive Zimmerman parents are very happy with the the young players, Clive Harding working, OHA UK general manager and the academic mentor Clive support and leadership shown by said: “Sports people are very driven Steve Nell said: “It’s been a great Harding have done an outstanding the school. We are looking forward and this shows as much in their success. We couldn’t have wished job in integrating the athletes into to a long and successful partnership academic work as in their sports in the years ahead.” performance. One lad is translating There are 13 athletes at- his lesson plans into his native Huntending both OHA UK and garian, doing the homework, then Lydiard Park Academy, translating it back to English. It’s a ranging from 12 to 15 years lot of work for someone who didn’t old, including players from have much of the language before the Ukraine, Germany and he came, but he’s just achieved an Hungary. There are also A in his latest science test.” pupils from Scotland and Twelve year old Mac Howlett, Surrey. All the out of town from Guildford, joined the squad youngsters are billeted with in the summer and has enjoyed his local families. first term at Lydiard Park Academy.

Offering an insight into Describing his ice hockey ambitions their gruelling training Mac said: “I want to play college schedule, 14 year old Ukraine-born hockey in the US, then aim for the Make the Mad March Hare your resolution target Simon Kunin, who has played ice NHL or the elite Swiss League.” hockey since he was two and a Affirming his favourable imEvery year the Mad March Hare in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer half, said: “We are on the ice every pressions of the youngsters, Clive welcomes many first timers, so if you’re looking for a target for your new morning from 8am to 9.30am, then Harding said: “All the players have year’s resolution, register now and aim to be on the start line at Lydiard after school we have off-ice training, an excellent academic and sports Park Academy on Sunday 24 March. including fitness, strength, mental attitude. They are great role models The 5km and 10km routes are suitable for walkers, runners, those approaches to sport and yoga.” for our other young learners.” with pushchairs and dog walkers. All finishers are awarded a medal and Above, first day at Lydiard Park Academy in September. The hockey players with, goody bag, including four-legged participants. from left, Clive Zimmerman, headteacher, Christian Dobbs, head of sport, Clive Register to participate at www.madmarchhare.org.uk If walking or running is not for you then volunteers, either on the day Harding, academy sports coordinator, Alex Buchalik, sports teacher. or as a member of the organising team, are needed. Call 0845 680 Below, game action at Link Centre. The players wear the Lydiard Park Academy logo on their shoulders. Photos: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com 80640 for details.

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19 - 48 January 13.indd 34

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13/12/2012 16:10

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Swindon powerlifter’s hair loss is Breaking Free’s gain

Female power-lifter Charlie Shotton-Gale of SG-Fitness is gutted not to have beaten three British records in the squat, the dead-lift and the bench press at the World Championships held in Puerto Rico in early November.

Injury limited her lifting ability but true to her word the athlete from Grange Park has had her head shaved to raise over £2,652 for the Breaking Free Support project, helping survivors of reserve for the 2013 World Games. traumatic sexual abuse and rape.

By way of consolation she found Charlie said: “I am so thankful to out that she’s been chosen as a my training partners and coach Pat Constantine, and also my sponsors Mike McGuire Butchers in Swindon town centre, Princess Homecare and Marillier’s Shop Fitting. Powerlifting is an unfunded amateur sport and I would not have been able to afford to compete in all these championships without their support.”

Amy Feathers and Leanne Britton of Swindon’s Knock em Dead hair salon gave Charlie her close shave www.sg-fitness.co.uk www.breakingfreesupport.co.uk

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Small contributions (of time and money) make a big difference to Prospect

Prospect Hospice is urging people with just a small amount of free time to support its box collection scheme for a few hours twice a year.

The box scheme, which is supported by almost 10,000 households and businesses, and has been in place for almost as long as the charity which provides dedicated end-of-life care to the people of Swindon and beyond.

Its success is largely dependent on the involvement of box Prospect box collection coordinator Gifty Tawiah collectors who, in with volunteers, from left, Mandy Hooper, spring and autumn, John Goddard and Christina Webb call at the homes of friends and neighbours to collect able to deliver locally. the money they have accumulated “Last year, boxes in homes in their boxes. and local businesses contributed “It’s a very simple scheme, but over £90,000 towards the care of one that has been of enormous patients and their families in our value to Prospect Hospice over community.” the years,” says Gifty Tawiah, But to ensure the continued sucProspect’s boxes fundraiser. “The cess of the scheme, Gifty is looking great thing is that it means people for more box collectors to support can contribute towards the work of the scheme in new neighbourhoods, their local hospice over time, just by and to cover rounds no longer supputting their loose change in their ported by a collector. own box. With many people across To find out more contact Gifty: Photos: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix. the community doing this, it makes giftytawiah@prospect-hospice.net a huge difference to the care we are or call 01793 816161. com

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every subsequent year. Vehicle Excise Duty rates are reviewed annually by the government and are subject to change. ^Source: JATO Dynamics. Based on volume-weighted average CO emissions (g/km) of the best selling brands in Europe, 1st half year 2012. *According to NEDC standard.

Fiat, the car brand with the lowest average CO2 emissions in Europe^. Fiat 500 TwinAir, the lowest CO2 emission petrol car engine in the world*. Fuel consumption for Fiat 500 range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 44.1 (6.4) – 64.2 (4.4); Extra Urban 65.7 (4.3) – 91.1 (3.1); Combined 55.4 (5.1) – 76.3 (3.7). CO2 emissions 119 – 90 g/km. †Under current DVLA regulations there is no charge for Vehicle Excise Duty in the first year of registration and 2

every subsequent year. Vehicle Excise Duty rates are reviewed annually by the government and are subject to change. ^Source: JATO Dynamics. Based on volume-weighted average CO2 emissions (g/km) of the best selling brands in Europe, 1st half year 2012. *According to NEDC standard.

19 - 48 January 13.indd 35

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Community clean ups in West Swindon

Over 50 residents turned up on a cloudy miserable day in November to give Freshbrook’s Mead Park off Worsley Road a makeover.

Twenty eight youngsters from initiated the project Lydiard Park Academy, members of with Swindon Council Freshbrook Church, local council- locality officers Paula lors, Swindon Council officers and Harrison and Gail Light, staff from Swindon Commercial said: “The area was lookServices blitzed the area for three ing overgrown and the hours - cutting back overgrown amount of rubbish and trees and bushes, litter picking and glass made it quite inremoving large sarsen stones used timidating. It was a great by local youth for smashing bottles. turn out which made a The academy pupils painted the significant difference. wood fence to the multi-sport area But I think we can do before everybody returned to the more in the Spring.” church for refreshments supplied During half term over by the Windmill Pub, Freshbrook 25 adults and children Tesco, Pizza Hut, Dominos Pizza tidied up the streets and and Asda. squares of The Holbeins The Mayor and Freshbrook councillor Michael Bray Resident David Miles, who in Grange Park with help with David Miles and his children at Mead Park Tidy up in The Holbeins

from local councillors and neighbourhood wardens.

Localities facilitator Gail Light said: “The excitement of the children was catching which caused more people to come out of their houses to help.

“In two hours the volunteers had filled well over thirty bags with leaves, branches and litter.

“Local residents walking by commented favourably and said they would come along next time.”

If you would like to get involved in a project in your neighbourhood, call Paula or Gail on 01793 466223.

Start the new year in Peatmoor Copse

Sunday 6 January, 10am - 1pm Take in the fresh air to shake off the festive season. Join in with coppicing trees using traditional woodland management techniques and create eco-piles to promote insect and wildlife.

Details from: roger_ogle@mac.com

Woodturners offer new hobby North Wiltshire Woodturning Association is a group of enthusiasts who gain immense satisfaction from creating objects of beauty from wood and are dedicated to promoting woodturning for all ages and abilities.

They get together on the second Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm at Hook Village Hall. At each meeting there is a turning demonstration and a show and tell session when members exhibit their work.

There is also plenty of opportunity for beginners to ask for advice.

The club owns its own lathe and other tools, offers tuition and has an extensive library of DVDs, books and magazines.

Annual membership is £12 plus £6 insurance and admission to club nights is £2. For details contact Ian Hooker on 01793 771268. www.woodturning.btik.com

Swindon’s Favourite Pet Store

Great prices on a great range of quality pet foods Hills Dog Foods 12k Bags at £29.99 (Large Puppy, Standard or Large Adult ) Hills Cat Foods all 2 kilo Bags only £12.99 Iams 3k Cat Foods only £11.99 Quality Wild Bird Foods from only £9.99 for 20 kilos Wild Bird Peanuts only £36.99 for 25 kilos 100 Fat Balls from only £13.49 Lots of other deals, too numerous to mention PLUS our FREE New Puppy and Kitten Club, with exclusive discounts And ... if you are buying Bakers Complete Dog Food but would like to try a good food with more meat and rice, and less artificial colours ....

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19 - 48 January 13.indd 36

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

37

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www.sansums.co.uk 19 - 48 January 13.indd 37

12/12/2012 19:05

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

Swindon’s easy to get to domestic spares outlet

Two ambassadors impressed by Swindon charity’s work to brighten up classrooms

Ambassadors from Zambia and Zimbabwe visited the town in November to discuss how the solar powered lighting system invented by Roger Mugridge from Cricklade is making an impact on education in their countries.

On 17 November Zambian Vacuum cleaners: bags, filters, belts etc; High Commissioner Lt Colonel washing machines; tumble dryers, Bizwayo Nkunika spent a day dishwashers; cookers; ovens; hobs & with Swindon Town Football in hoods; small appliances & garden tools the Community, meeting ZamHighly competitive prices, bians who live in the town, and available online or direct from: taking in the STFC game against Unit 83 Basepoint Business Centre Yeovil at the County Ground.

Rivermead Drive, Westlea As described in the NovemSwindon SN5 7EX (FREE PARKING ber Link a close community Telephone 01793 608844 development relationship has email: suds-online@hotmail.co.uk been created between Swindon Roger Mugridge showing the High Commissioner, centre, and members of the Swindon and the Zambian city of Liv- Zambian community how bright his demonstration system is. Catherine Mulenga, centre ingstone where town coaches right, attended the first Lights for Learning presentation in Swindon organised by The Jon Holloway and Clive Ma- Link in 2002 which led to solar powered lights being installed into a large school she knew guire have organised football of in Zambia. Photo: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com coaching courses and a league, and cultural and community contacts.

“Lights for Learning has created a more recently developed football Find out more by contacting An- real feel good factor; it’s a huge psyfor girls. drew Deuchar on 01793 854684 or chological boost for young people Have fun teaching your dog From sport has come education andrewdeuchar@btinternet.com that they can have a better future good manners and behaviour links between Crowdy’s Hill special Earlier in November Zimbabwe locally and not have to think about at one of our friendly classes school and Livingstone High School. ambassador Gabriel Machinga, moving to the towns and cities.

3 Playskool for puppies The High Commissioner was also below, visited Roger in Cricklade “As a result, with a donation from 3 Adult beginners/improvers fascinated when Roger Mugridge to discuss further work by Lights the Rotary Club of Westminster a 3 Senior Skool/advanced classes demonstrated his system for light- for Learning in his country. year ago, it has been possible to 3 One to one advice & training ing classrooms and operating lapThe charity has established a purchase equipment and materials 3 Fun agility workshops top computers in rural areas where close working relationship with to set up a facility to manufacture www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk there is no regular electricity supply. the Zimbabwe education ministry furniture for schools in that region APDT Member (01066) The STFC Swindon Zambia and solar powered lights have been of Zimbabwe.

Janet Garrett DipCAPBT Dip.dog.psy link is keen for more schools and installed in 11 schools and a youth “It’s a model I’m pushing for in Tel: 01793 727158 neighourhood groups to be become training centre. other parts of my country where janet@janetspuppyskool.co.uk involved in developing sporting, “Roger and I met a few years children in rural areas can learn for ago,” said Mr Machinga. “What longer, and the youth and adults started as a small meeting has can have learning and training opbecome a close friendship. portunities.

“Roger and his volunteers make a profound impact on the communities they visit because they engage with the people, particularly in my district of Chikuku “Unlike staff from many NGOs who drive in to do their work then return to city hotels, Lights for Learning volunteers “The Chikuku training centre is put up tents in the schools where they are installing lights, and they also making us rethink our human get locals involved in doing the resources policies so that we target education resources at both the high work themselves.

“And it’s almost unheard of that achievers and also young people January sees the launch first world aid workers sit down who need skills training. It means of our neutering health club. and eat food with local people. It we can bring retired teachers and makes a very important statement headteachers back into education So why not become a Thameswood VIP? about sharing cultures through and provide opportunities for those who might turn to crime, which eating together.”

Visit our website or contact the clinic Gabriel added that the lights becomes a drain on society through for more information installed in the Chikuku youth the police and justice systems.”

Lights for Learning is hoping that training centre had given hope the UK government will assist it to young people who have little Open: 62-64 Purton Road chance of keeping up with coun- after meeting the Secretary of State Monday to Friday Swindon SN2 2LZ terparts in areas of the country for International Development Alan 9am-6.30pm (end of Akers Way) served by mains electricity. “You Duncan on a visit to Nova Hreod Saturday cannot underestimate the impact School in October. See the Link story Tel: 01793 526780 9am-12noon of being able to study and to do at www.bit.ly/l4lduncan further training when the sun has • Find out more at: www.lightsforlearning.org gone down.

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swindonlink.com • January 2013

North Swindon teachers visit Kenyan partners

Abbey Meads reception teacher Liz Arblaster and Y2 teacher Claire Walsh travelled to Kenya in October to visit Mwitasy Ano Primary School and children’s rescue centre, building on the British Council funded global education partnership project that started in the summer when headteacher Reuben Mbwiko and rescue centre founder Cosmas Nzilili came to Swindon.

Liz and Claire stayed in the rescue centre with Cosmas, his family and the children he has brought in, and took with them numerous donations, including football kit, laptops, pencils and uniform items.

Claire commented: “Cosmas treats all the children as if they were his own, and they all attend school which is a Claire with children in Kenya five minute walk away. We went along to school everyday and the English visitors, when hundreds got to meet all the teachers who, of parents and local government unlike here, are mostly men.” ministers joined the staff and chilLiz and Claire also took with them dren to share a meal and perform pieces of art work produced by year poems and songs.

4 children, depicting the scenes Reflecting on what she took away they can see from their window. from the experience Liz said: “It Liz explained: “Everyone was really was really valuable to get first-hand keen to find out about our education experience about how people live. system, and the older children in It made us appreciate how much particular were very well-informed our children have got.” and asked loads of questions about The next step is to further develop politics and government.” joint curriculum projects touching During their visit Liz and Claire on colonial history and geography, were interviewed by a local radio and for children to become pen pals. station and were presented with tra- It is also hoped that two Kenyan ditional shawls representing typical teachers will be able to visit Abbey sustainable crafts of the region.

Meads in 2013.

On the last day the whole commu- • See more photos at www.swinnity held a celebration in honour of donlink.com Liz presenting sports kit to children from Mwitasy Ano Primary School wearing Abbey Meads branded polo shirts

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19 - 48 January 13.indd 42

J S Property Services

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

❉ Quality bathroom suites

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

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

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

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

HEATING & PLUMBING

SAFE & SHAW

Quality Plumbing & Heating

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

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

01793 321981 07775 840236

HEATING & PLUMBING

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

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

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

For a complete professional service contact:

STEVE GEORGE

DECORATOR DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

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

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

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

215153

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

APPROVED 30 years experienced tradesman

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service

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BATHROOMS

BLINDS

Stylish Bathrooms 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

01793 320773 07779 006360

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz

DECORATOR

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING

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

the place for quality and value 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

Tel: 01793 434584

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

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

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

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

BUILDING SERVICES

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind

D&A HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

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

DECORATOR

TREVOR WYSE

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

High class painter & decorator with 35 years experience

Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

email: trevorwyse@btinternet.com

www.trevorwyse.com

HEATING & PLUMBING

• 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

• Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

ROOFING

For all your heating & bathroom needs

HOUSEMARTIN

522404

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

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

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

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

Accredited Installer

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on 203455

TILING

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

TILING

GILES BROS

The Roofing Specialist

• 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

19 - 48 January 13.indd 43

on Worcester Bosch Cdi, Ri and Si boilers

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

PLUMBING

Call Steve now on 07708 135420 or 01793 827372

5 YEAR GUARANTEE

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

H

HOME MAINTENANCE

Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work • Central heating

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

DECORATOR

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd All aspects of plumbing and heating work undertaken

ALL YOUR NEEDS IN ONE NUMBER

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

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

❇❇❇

TEL: 01793 854149 MOB: 07919 255673

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Neil on 01793 700542 07725 028776

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

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

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44

ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY

Aerial Solutions

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

• Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

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

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

AERIAL SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING Abacus Cleaning Services

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

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

• Quickly usable

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

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

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER SUPPORT

AERIAL SERVICES

Chris Payne

aerials & satellite systems ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

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

Mobile: 07506 740921 www.procleancleaningservices.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS

Computer problems?

Let us help

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

www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

LOCKSMITH

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

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

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

19 - 48 January 13.indd 44

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

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

Tel: 01793 325685

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT?

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

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

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362

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

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

14/12/2012 09:12

45

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines

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

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING

CLEANING

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

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

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

Around £26 for a 4 bed.

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans.

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

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

GARAGE DOORS

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796

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

19 - 48 January 13.indd 45

• Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience

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

Ex-school site set for self build homes Swindon Council is proposing to offer the Windmill Hill site off Uxbridge Road for 28 detached houses to self-builders, 15 plots in the first phase of 1.7 acres. An area for allotments is also included.

The scheme will be undertaken in partnership with BuildStore Financial Services Ltd who will provide marketing, finance and project management services.

If Swindon’s planning committee passes the plan, it is anticipated that Examining the site layout at a consultation in early the plots will be marketed December, from left, Cllr Michael Dickinson, Cllr to interested individual Cindy Matthews, Denis Matthews, Jon Ratcliffe, self-builders in the Spring. Gail Light

Jill Kelly from Grange Park writes:

Showroom:

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

• Dishwashers

Desperately seeking Sally (and Malcolm and Tom and Will)

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

swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

• Cookers

The first one arrived in 2008. It sat there, innocent enough, amongst the day’s deliveries. It was a perfectly tasteful but modest affair – a photograph of a cheerful looking robin amidst snowy branches and red berries. The name and address on the envelope were ours, the handwriting unremarkable. Inside was similarly standard – a printed greeting and then a handwritten message: ‘love from Sally, Malcolm, Will and Tom xx.’ Lovely!

I had no idea who these people were but assumed they were colleagues of the other half. It’s a busy time of year so it was several days before I got round to asking him who they were. By this time, the card had taken its rightful place amongst the growing collection.

“Never heard of them,” he declared. I didn’t really believe him – he comes into contact with many people in the course of the year and he is getting a bit forgetful these days.

We asked the teenage offspring (whose social circles are a mystery to us); they denied all knowledge.

Younger son suggested detective work but the envelope which might

have given a clue was long gone in the re-cycling. We gave up and forgot about it.

Until 2009, and then also 2010.

Similarly sweet messages and cheery greetings. The situation is not without its worries – we feel a sense of responsibility. To whom do these kind people think they are sending their greetings? And what of the intended recipients?

We assume they must have the same name as us and must live in Swindon. Have they felt spurned by their erstwhile friends?

But 2011, and 2012, no cards from Sally and Malcolm. What has become of them? Have they discovered their mistake and rediscovered their long lost friends? Have they felt unloved and given up? Have Tom and Will left home? Are they all well? So many questions....

So if you think Sal and Malc have abandoned you in recent years, please can you get in touch with them and get them to update their address book ? But make sure they leave us in there – we’ve come to expect their greetings and we’d love to send a card in return. We wish them a Happy New Year.

14/12/2012 09:12

46

swindonlink.com • January 2013

Lucie

London Trained

Mobile Hairstylist 07796 432700

lucinda.frankel3@btinternet.com

Mobile Hairdresser Mobile: 07970 079681 Home: 01793 323400

ANYTHING TRANSFERRED ONTO DVD DISC Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 HQ Bath. Box 98. BA2 5PS

TERRY WINTER

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

Scouts rebrand and make major move after quarter of a century

After 25 years 1st Westlea Scouts, who used to meet at Upper Shaw Farm community hall before transferring next door to Shaw Ridge Primary School, have uprooted themselves to become 1st Lydiard Park Scouts and now meet in the stable room, adjacent to Lydiard House.

Leader Darren Cooper, who first joined 1st Westlea as an eight year old, said he had wanted to move to the park for many years and he was delighted the group has been able to negotiate a letting. “The park is a fantastic resource and we have an incredible opportunity to develop a wide range of outdoor woodcraft and pioneering activities.

“We’re all looking forward to the better weather and longer evenings to explore what we can do.

The group will also be 1st Lydiard in the stable room with leaders Chris Shepherd, Darren Cooper and Zena Sworder contributing to the good of the park by helping with jobs such Sworder and Martyn West, and boys and girls aged 10½ to 14½.

Parents can contact the group by as leaf clearing and litter picking.” Chris Shepherd. mailing sysengshep@gmail.com or Group vacancies Darren is assisted by former Westlea scout members Zena 1st Lydiard Park has space for 24 via Facebook: Lydiard Park Scouts

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

01793 827188

Trauma group welcomes Bath Baedecker survivors

The Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon met people who survived the wartime bombing of Bath and some of their relations in the Lydiard Park conference centre in early November after touring the Field of Remembrance in the walled garden.

Read about the meeting organised by Swindon Trauma Group at www.swindonlink.com

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

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Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

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

14/12/2012 13:03

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

West Swindon Household Travel Survey

Ever wondered why you own a car?

The cost of motoring doesn’t come cheap; many of us pay a fortune on car loans, tax, insurance, servicing, and fuel only for the car to sit on the driveway for hours on end. One solution could be to join the Swindon car club, which is a “pay by the hour” scheme that allows its members to use a car without having to pay to own the car.

In other parts of the country research has shown that people have sold their car to join a car club, especially families that have more than one car. It also gives people the opportunity to drive a nice new car if they can’t afford to buy their own. Others have joined the scheme when their car is off the road for a few months.

There are now 5 Co-wheels car club vehicles situated in Swindon and they are ready and waiting to be booked out!

You can find out more by visiting the Co-wheels website at www.co-wheels.org.uk.

Join now and enjoy a free £20 driving credit – use code SWL12 when you sign up on the website.

Will you resolve to discover the bus?

As we welcome in 2013, did you make any New Year Resolutions? What about taking a little more “me time”? One of the benefits of taking the bus to work is that precious time to prepare for the day ahead, catch up with emails on your phone, unwind with a good book, grab a nap, sneak a peek into your fellow passengers’ lives or simply tweet your heart out.

To help you on your way to discovering the benefits of travelling by bus, Swindon Travel Choices and Thamesdown Transport invite car commuters to try the new “Multi day Rider” smartcard for FREE. If eligible, you will receive a smartcard preloaded with 6 days free travel – the days do not have to be used consecutively so are perfect for part time workers who only need to travel on certain days of the week.

Once you have used the complimentary days, you can keep the card and top it up with more days, which you can buy on the bus or at the travel shop on Fleming Way. Plus the MultiDay Rider smartcard is the first flexible product that gives you savings, as you can buy 6 days travel for the price of 5 (£17.50). Apply online at www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Many thanks to everyone who took part in the Swindon Travel Choices survey in West Swindon during October and November. Over a thousand replies have been received.

The responses are being analysed and will help set the direction of the project in 2013.

The draw for the £20 shopping vouchers has taken place and the winners notified.

Grant funding boost for Swindon businesses Thanks to Government funding, Swindon Travel Choices is able to offer local businesses grant money ranging from £500 to £5000 to help reduce traffic congestion on routes to the town centre and improve the options available to employees around how they travel to work.

The grants can be used to upgrade on-site storage for bikes or changing facilities, or by supporting individual commuters by purchasing bikes or providing free bus travel trial tickets.

The money will be available in 2013, but we are taking expressions of interest now. Don’t lose out on this opportunity to claim the funding that could be available to you.

If you are interested in finding out more, please send an email to: info@swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Share the car, share the cost Following our recent car share campaign coupled with crippling fuel costs, we saw an encouraging increase in membership to carshareswindon.com Since National Liftshare week in October, there have been an additional 76 members signing up to the scheme, and a 50% increase in members making requests to share journeys with others.

It’s free to join. Find out if there’s anyone near you that could fill your empty seats at www.carshareswindon.com

You can keep in touch with the latest Swindon Travel Choices news, events and initiatives by subscribing to our e-mail newsletter via: www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk Facebook.com/Swindontravelchoices

19 - 48 January 13.indd 47

Twitter: @Swindon_Travel

13/12/2012 09:46

a o t t r o p s s a P r You

t e k c i T n e d l Go

be d n a r e rovid p s s raw! e d n e t i z f i r t s p igge ship b r e s ’ b n m o e d n stic m a t n Join Swi a f r o ou t n i d e Does r ente your go od bag hav y ea Golden Ticket?

Unlimited use of: • 4 Gyms • • • • • • •

5 Swimming Pools 120+ Fitness Classes Ice Skating Health Suite Turkish Baths Indoor Climbing Wall Athletics Track

Golden Ticket prizes: 1 x 1 year membership 3 x 6 months membership 6 x 3 months membership Offer available 02.01.13 – 17.02.13 Terms and conditions apply.

Goody bags subject to availability.

www.leisureinswindon.co.uk healthandfitnessatswindon

19 - 48 January 13.indd 48

@LeisureSwindon

13/12/2012 16:28