January 2017 South East Swindon Link

No 5 January 2017

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 100,000

South and East Swindon Edition

N Ne ew Y Gu w ear ide You p

Building Swindon’s cultural future - page 17

26

Hadrian Ellory Van Dekker unveils the plans for the town’s £22million museum and art gallery

Plus

The annual National Self Build and Renovation Show p13

Community: P3-16

Swindon Wide: P17-23

Sport & Leisure: P24-27

Services: P28-29

Puzzle: P30

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

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Community News

Let’s make 2017 the year of community

By Group Editor Jamie Hill 2017 is going to be big for Swindon.

It’s set to be a year where the town starts shouting from the rooftops to places near and far about what we already know - that it has a thriving community and is a great place to live.

This month the council will be partnering with businesses to launch a new campaign called Switch On To Swindon. The idea is to attract investment into the borough by letting companies around the world know what great opportunites the town offers. The entire campaign is a celebration of what is good here, from our heritage and culture to our parks and leisure facilities.

Obviously at Swindon Link we’ve known that the town is something special for the past 38 years. It has always been our mission to be at the centre of the town’s life becoming one of the threads that tie communities together.

A lot has changed in that time but one thing that has never changed is how strong the town’s sense of community is.

In March Swindon Link will be celebrating 30 years of life as a commercial magazine having made the step-up from a community

P Sw osi in tive do n

newsletter in 1987 to the publication you now hold in your hands.

It is with that in mind that we would like to get as many people behind us as possible to make 2017 the year of ‘Positive Swindon’.

Already there are groups across the town doing all they can for their communities.

One group that is providing inspiration is Spirit of Swindon who have a monthly column on page 16. They are calling for all of us to help each other.

Another initiative that is looking to join the dots highlights all the good work carried out by volunteers in Swindon and how you can get involved. Find out more details on page 10.

Within these pages throughout 2017 we will be doing all we can to celebrate ‘Positive Swindon’ and we want you to help by writing to us about your positive stories. at publisher@swindonlink.com

P Sw osi in tive do n Director: James Phipps Executive Chairman: Julian Barlow Group Editor: Jamie Hill Chief Reporter: Ben Fitzgerald Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Mike Barham Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com

ADVERTISING Call 01793 781502 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for February adverts and editorial: 11 January February edition published: 27 January

Positive Media Group Limited, Unit 3, Arclite House, Century Road, Swindon SN5 5YN T: 01793 744677 E: publisher@swindonlink.com Our Statistics Est. Readership of 100,000 in print & c.15,000 monthly online visitors.

Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £57.

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.

Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.

Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford

Winners of last year’s event join Mayor Eric Shaw at the launch

Swindon Cares donates £15,000 to charities James Arkell hands over cheques to DASH and Hop, Skip and Jump

The result of a year of fundraising

by Swindon Cares came to fruition with the handing over of £15,000 to two worthy causes.

Fundraisers and representatives from the Hop, Skip and Jump respite care and the DASH autism charities gathered at the Tawny Owl pub where Arkell’s Brewery chairman James Arkell presented cheques of £7,500 to each cause.

Bill Fishlock from Swindon Cares explained that the money had been raised through a wide variety of fundraising activities over the year such as concerts, quizzes and even

an ‘unofficial’ half marathon.

Bill explained: “When the half marathon was cancelled, a lot of the runners decided to run it anyway - they raised £1,700 for us.”

Swindon Cares supports its chosen charities for two years, with this being the second year of support for the charities.

Acting CEO of Hop, Skip and Jump, Clarissa Mitchell said the money would be used for respite care for children and young adults.

Swindon Cares, now in its 14th year, has raised more than £249,000 for local charities.

Nominations launched for Pride of Swindon The great and good of Swindon gathered at the Mayor’s parlour for the launch of The Pride of Swindon 2017.

Now in its ninth year, the event aims to honour unsung heroes in the town who make a difference in their community. The launch was attended by previous award winners and business representatives of the sponsors, including McDonald’s, Nationwide, Voluntary Action Swindon, Swindon 105.5 fm, Intel and the Zurich community trust, the Swindon Advertiser and Positive Media Group.

Swindon Mayor Eric Shaw said: “We are looking for people who make a real difference to this town.

“We are looking for people who

are going above and beyond the ordinary.

“The judging takes place in February and it’s wonderful because we spend two hours talking about the positive things that people have done in the town.”

John Gilbert, Chief Executive of Swindon Borough Council added: “Having a more tolerant society is crucial and having new volunteers coming through the system is really important. Life is not easy, but it can be made easier if people volunteer.”

The closing date for nominations is January 27. For further details see the Mayor’s page at the council’s website at www.swindon.gov.uk swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

‘I’ve become part of the furniture’ - MP Robert Buckland

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland has become an established part of the Swindon political landscape in the six years since he was elected.

Working from his ‘cosy’ office in Wood Street, the walls lined with the work of local artists, Mr Buckland relishes his role as a constituency MP. For all its challenges and the huge workload involved, it is this key part of his role that he says brings him the most satisfaction - the aspect where he feels he can make the most impact on the lives of those living in his constituency.

“I do have a good relationship with most people in Swindon. I’ve been in this position so long that I get people recognising me in the street all the time.

I suppose I have become part of the furniture now.

That is the part of the job that I enjoy the most. We have a small team and we have a large workload.

Since 2010, we have had 16,000 items of casework. We try to cover as many of these as we can - I’m lucky to have such a good team that helps me do that.

“Swindon’s a microcosm of the rest of the country, within my constituency you have rural areas and other parts of Swindon which share many of the features of inner city areas. The range of case work that I get presented with reflects

that diversity. There’s never a dull moment.”

Turning to the recent broadside levelled at Swindon’s primary and secondary schools by South West regional director of Ofsted, Bradley Simmons, Mr Buckland agreed that the blanket criticism was ‘not helpful’ whilst recognising that there were some key issues that needed to be addressed.

Responding to concerns by teachers over funding allocated to pupils in Swindon, which is significantly lower that other similar areas, Mr Buckland said: “We have seen an increase of £150 for pupil premium payments and I am aware that this is something that the Secretary of State is looking at closely.

“It is important to pull together as an educational community. The letter from Mr Simmons failed to acknowledge a lot of good work that is going on in our schools.

For example, Dorcan have just had their best results in three years, so we are going in the right direction.

A lot of this work has been going on already before Mr Simmons sent that letter out. I live in the

community and I’m a parent. I visit schools all the time and most of the time the atmosphere is appropriate.

We should use these criticisms as a platform to build on.

“We stand ready to help these schools. It’s about getting it right.

This is not about party politics.”

Turning to the decision by Swindon Borough Council to close 10 libraries in the town, Mr Buckland was keen to highlight the efforts made by campaigners to ensure that Parks library was included in the core provision raising the number from four libraries to five.

“The Parks Library is vital for that area of Swindon. It is essential for job seekers and provides a wider community role in this area where there is a lot of social deprivation.

We have been working hard to see if we can maintain the network, by looking at partnership approaches. There is a lot of work going on to bring people together, we shall see what the new year brings.”

Robert can be contacted on 01793 533 393, or via email: robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk

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swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

Library funding cutbacks spark protests from campaigners Campaigners made their feelings known following a controversial decision by Swindon Borough Council to axe funding for 10 of the borough’s 15 libraries.

Members of Save Swindon’s Libraries, Save Highworth Library and users of Old Town Library held a day of action over plans which will see all libraries, except Central, reduce their staffing hours to 15 hours.

The council’s library strategy aims to save £1.1 million from the current budget of £2.6million. It is likely that 40 full and part time staff may lose their jobs following a 60 per cent reduction in hours.

At Old Town, library users and supporters launched a Read In event where they ate mince pies and read books together to demonstrate the value of the library, and to show their support to the staff.

And in Highworth, protesters gathered in the town’s Market Square before spending the morning in a Read In event at Highworth Library while the Friends of Highworth Library held a coffee and mince pie fundraising morning.

The library strategy was only narrowly agreed by the council’s

Campaigners gathered at Old Town Library and in Highworth Market Square to protest scrutiny committee after members voted by seven votes to six to allow the proposals go ahead.

Under the new proposals, a core provision of five libraries will be funded – Central, North Swindon, West Swindon, Highworth and Parks. Parks library was added to the list following a two-month consultation period in which 1,632 responses were received.

Save Swindon’s Libraries chair, Sarah Church, said: “We commend the councillors and campaigners from the Parks, and residents from across Swindon, who spoke up during the consultation to make

sure that the dreadful mistake of closing Park Library would not come to fruition. A large number of staff will lose their jobs: the staff are the lifeblood of the library service and the reduction in their hours will have a profound impact on how library users access services.”

She added: “There remain many unanswered questions for core and non-core libraries, particularly over the economic sustainability of the plan and the substantial risk to the service if adequate income is not generated.”

Cllr Mary Martin, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “I’m pleased

we have been able to increase the core provision to include Park Library. Discussions are already well underway to secure community led library provision at Wroughton, Covingham and Upper Stratton.

We could be looking at retaining a great deal of Swindon’s existing library provision.”

The libraries proposal purports to be a strategy to take the service through to 2020.

Some of the additional library provision could be met by community solutions, with a £500,000 transitional fund being set aside to support this.

Estate agents support the homeless

Staff from Ashcox & Stone: Fiona Cox, Bonnie Ash, Tom Hambidge, Lee Haynes and Neil Bainbridge, who raised funds for Swindon Night Shelter

Homeless people in Swindon have been supported by the fundraising efforts of estate and lettings agent Ashcox & Stone.

The team collected £500 for Swindon Night Shelter project with a tombola and prize draw stall at the Old Town Christmas Lights Switch-on event.

The Night Shelter operates every Friday night from 9pm – 8am at St Mary’s church hall, Cheney Manor Rd. Guests are offered a hot meal, a chance to shower, wash clothes and a bed for the night.

Sales and lettings manager Fiona Cox said: “We wanted to support a local charity and we all felt the Swindon Night Shelter does great

work for many vulnerable people.”

Sales negotiator Lee Haynes, who helped run the stall, said: “Volunteers from the Night Shelter joined us at the event to tell people about the work which goes on, largely unseen, to help the town’s homeless.”

Prizes included a round of golf at Broome Manor Golf Course, cinema tickets at Cineworld and a free month’s gym membership and personal training session at the Nuffield Health Gym at Greenbridge.

Ashcox & Stone, based at Marlborough Road, Old Town, rent and sell property in the Swindon area.

Visit www.ashcoxandstone.co.uk

01793 269000 office@ashcoxandstone.co.uk Marlborough Road, Swindon swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

The deal is off: North Star site developer is dropped Ambitious plans to create a major leisure destination at North Star have been thrown into doubt after Swindon Borough Council served notice to end the development agreement with Moirai Capital Investments Limited.

But Cllr Garry Perkins, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for the economy, regeneration and skills said he is confident that other developers will be found to pursue the council’s vision.

The decision was taken after proposals by Moirai to transform the area with more than £100m of investment stalled.

The council served Moirai notice of its intention to terminate the development agreement and three of the leases granted to the developer covering the former Clares site, which had been earmarked for an indoor ski slope, water park, a hotel and other leisure-related retail.

The council has the right to end the agreement and the leases if key targets are not met.

Moirai has until 12 January to fulfil the terms of the notice otherwise the development and the leases will automatically terminate.

all parties including ward members and cabinet members.

Cllr Perkins said: “The North Star leisure scheme is one of the Council’s Pledges so is vitally important to us as it will provide a huge boost to the town in terms of attracting visitors, inward investment and jobs.

“This is why we have taken the decision to serve a notice of termination of the development An artist’s impression of what had been proposed for the North Star site agreement on Moirai as we need to The council has said it wants The lease covering the Oasis press ahead with these plans and to speed up progress on the site Leisure Centre will not be put Swindon on the map. and will explore the best options affected by the termination of Moirai has done a great job with to enable the scheme to proceed. the development agreement as the Oasis by investing millions of With this in mind, it recently gave Moirai has fulfilled its contractual pounds and turning the facility into the go-ahead for the creation of a obligations for the Oasis lease. one that was costing the council £50m commercial investment fund.

Under the development money to run, into a leisure centre The North Star decision follows agreement, Moirai was contracted that now returns a significant the recent initiative to take a more to refurbish the Oasis, which the annual return. hands-on role at the Wichelstowe company has confirmed cost them “The council has given Moirai development, which will see in the region of £3m. enough opportunity to take forward the Council lead on providing a To date, the council has also saved its plans but, ultimately, the council restaurant, housing for older people almost £2m through the Oasis lease cannot hang on indefinitely and and residential development. and received an annual rent from we have had to take this decisive Should Moirai fail to obtain Moirai since the lease was signed. action. We have a number of planning permission within the Moirai was identified as the options we can pursue to ensure termination notice period, options preferred private operator for the this ambitious vision is achieved for taking the regeneration project leisure scheme following a bid and we are confident that we can forward will be developed over the process that was evaluated by still create a landmark scheme that next few months. council officers and councillors from Swindon can be proud of.”

£20m town centre plans unveiled

Director of Forward Swindon Paul Chamberlain describes the plan

Ambitious plans to revamp Swindon town centre have been unveiled – and members of the public have been invited to have their say.

The £20m project, which was put on show in the town centre, will see the redevelopment of the Aspen House and Granville Street area.

Plans by Forward Swindon include the building of 188 homes and a ground floor retail development as part of a five-year-plan to breathe new life into the town centre.

Director of Forward Swindon, Paul Chamberlain, said: “A lot of thought has gone into these proposals. We want to deliver it in a way that is commercially viable and that works

within the constraints of the site.

“We feel that the plan we have put together ticks lots of boxes and is in the spirit of what was set out in the town’s masterplan.

The 188 residential units will be built in two linked but separate blocks. The plan also sees a continuation and expansion of the current town centre shopping area.

The two shopping areas outlined in the plan will be linked with a pedestrianised route.

There will also be four distinct blocks of new housing alongside shops and cafes.

For more information visit: www.aspen-house.com swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

Energising Swindon in 2017

Swindon has an unbelievable amount going for it - a huge and busy voluntary sector and grassroots community groups, a hive of cultural activity, lots of interest in history and heritage, a growing media scene, many regeneration plans, and a great entrepreneurial spirit.

But we’re our own worst critics who seem to either delight in Lord Joffe, centre left, at a reception held by Justin Tomlinson MP and Robert putting ourselves down, or don’t Buckland MP in early November for members of voluntary organisations who took part in a whole day’s broadcasting on Swindon 105.5, sponsored by the bother to look at the good things Zurich Community Trust we’ve got, according to Lord Joel Joffe. felt frustrated or angry by the way snob and not acknowledge I lived He admits being somewhat they were being taken advantage of, Swindon.” negative in the past even though or their ideas ignored.

Since retiring from the House of he made charitable giving a central “It was clear to me participants Lords in 2015, Joel has been on part of his businesses since moving needed to be brought together to to Swindon in the 1970s. The Zurich a mission to rediscover Swindon talk about how the voluntary sector Community Trust, (formerly Hambro by talking to a wide range of and the council could work together community representatives, council Life and Allied Dunbar community “There is so much that works well; officials and business people. He trusts), is now one of the UK’s Swindon really is a great town on said: “I was astonished by the largest corporate givers with a very the verge of being much better.” range of community and cultural high percentage of staff involved in After several months of research organisations in the town - it’s a payroll giving. in 2016, two gatherings of voluntary huge social resource to tap into.

“I used to drive to work in the organisations and council staff took “But I was concerned that the town centre and back to Liddington place under Joel’s watchful eye in level of citizen engagement was but had little time to spend on the September and early November. declining, some of the people community, although I was aware Richard Hill, Voluntary Action Swindon was a busy place,” said Joel. already in the voluntary sector were Swindon chief executive, and Patrick increasingly demotivated, and some “But at times I would be a bit of a

Weir, Swindon Council’s head of localities and volunteering, jointly coordinate the working group of some 50 people which has been looking at: • sharing knowledge and taking action to stimulate volunteering; • celebrating Swindon and encouraging civic pride; • improving communications within and between sectors and in communities; • supporting employment for people with physical and mental difficulties; • innovation funding and skills development.

Richard Hill said: “It’s an ambitious initiative and everyone involved so far is contributing in a spirit of real collaboration, with positivity and a focus on the future, rather than dwelling on what has happened in the past.

“If we continue to pull together in the same way, concentrating and building on the positives of Swindon, then we’ll make a big difference to creating a stronger civil society in our town.”

To find out more and participate in the initiative, contact Richard Hill: richard@vas-swindon.org

Can Swindon become a model of fairness and opportunity?

January conference to bring people together Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS) and Swindon Equality Coalition are launching a new campaign to raise awareness of equality issues and promote fairness and inclusion in the town, and are seeking local people to take part in it.

“By raising and addressing equality issues, we aim to make Swindon a model of fairness and opportunity, where people can aspire and achieve to their best ability, and as a town we reach our full potential,” said Hannah Parry, development officer at Voluntary Action Swindon.

“The past year has seen awful events take place such as the homophobic terrorist attack in Orlando, the murder of Jo Cox MP and a significant rise in race-related hate crime in the UK and US. “There is still a need for debate in our communities about inclusion and we hope to bring this about with the support of the Swindon community”.

The campaign is called the ‘Swindon200 Project’ and will seek to sign up 200 people as ‘Equality Ambassadors’ who will help to shape and take this work forward

10

© Justin Smythe during 2017.

Hannah commented: “The name for the project was inspired by the 175th Anniversary of ‘New Swindon’ in 2016. We felt we should take the opportunity to celebrate our past and where we are today, and also think about what kind of town we want to live in and to encourage people to take an active and positive role in shaping Swindon for the future. This is about the power and potential of what can happen when people come together to affect and create change.”

This fits with Swindon Borough Council’s vision for the town launched in 2016 which says: ‘[Swindon] will remain, at heart, a place of fairness and opportunity where people can aspire to and

achieve prosperity, supported by strong civic and community leadership.’

Janey Templar-Milligan, member of Swindon Equality Coalition, said: “By raising awareness of equality, we also hope that more people will feel confident in coming forwards and raising issues that they may have personally faced.”

A specific website is being developed to signpost people to where they can find information and support and a series of short films on a range of equality issues is being produced in partnership with students at New College and local charity Viewpoint Community Media.

A new ‘Swindon Equality and Inclusion Charter’ will also

be launched at a community conference at the National Trust HQ on Saturday 21 January, which is open to members of community and voluntary sector organisations in Swindon.

VAS has been commissioned by Swindon Borough Council to deliver this work, which seeks to increase the number of Swindon residents’ engaged in equality issues, as well as the number of issues being raised. The Equality Act gives public authorities responsibility to ensure there is dialogue about issues of equality and inequality, making sure that as many people as possible have good access to services and do not experience unlawful discrimination.

Hannah added: “We are keen to partner with other local community and voluntary groups and large employers. So far, the National Trust have offered their support for this project and we are hoping that other large employers will offer their support for this campaign.

To become involved in this initiative, contact Hannah Parry: hannah@vas-swindon.org or call 01793 538398.

swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

Decision on future of Lydiard Park due to be announced in January

With the six month moratorium period drawing to a close on 22 December, a decision on which group will be handed responsibilty for Lydiard Park and House is due to be announced in January.

It is understood that there are two community bids and one commercial bid for the whole site and two parties interested in running part. Swindon Borough Council will now have to announce which bid they are to accept to run the site.

Gina Akers, who is part of the Love Lydiard Trust community bid and great-granddaughter of Francis Akers, who gifted Lydiard to the people of Swindon, said: “Along with the Lydiard staff we have an extremely high calibre of trustees who have been developing high level relationships to progress the educational opportunities at Lydiard, while establishing a realistic and sustainable business plan to ensure the effective financial running of Lydiard.

“With support and input from renowned national associations,

the skills from our group and the wider community, and by laying the foundations of a positive relationship with the Council we have created a sustainable model.

Our bid has been carefully thought out and reasoned through to ensure it provides best chances of protecting the future of Lydiard House and Park so it can continue to be enjoyed by the community as my great-grandfather intended.”

Mike Bowden, Chairman of community bidders Lydiard Park Heritage Trust, said: “The Localism Act (which gives rise to the moratorium) does not require or envisage a pause such as the one we’ve had. It simply prohibits the council from entering into a binding agreement such as a lease with anyone other than a qualifying community group during the moratorium period.

“We are surprised that Swindon Borough Council did not use the early weeks of the period to meet with appropriate bidders and better understand their proposals for the future of Lydiard.”

Shadow parish councils begin to transfer control of services from the borough With the decision to create three new parish areas taken by Swindon Borough Council in November, the process of transferring power to the newly formed shadow parish councils has begun across Swindon.

The controversial plans to create new parish councils in Swindon have been given the go-ahead in the face of furious opposition.

Following a heated debate at the November meeting of Swindon Borough Council, constantly interrupted by protests from the public gallery, councillors voted the proposal through, 29 for and 26 against (with one abstention).

Prior to the meeting, dozens of protestors and opposition councillors chanted ‘no new parishes’ on the steps of the Civic Offices.

Existing borough councillors are being appointed to run the new shadow parish councils which will be actively taking on services from the council by April 1 2017. This will be followed the month after with elections for parish council members.

One of the first to be formed has been West Swindon Parish Council,

which has already begun meetings to decide how the process will move forward in their area and which services they will take from the borough.

For example, Cllr Keith Williams (Con) has been elected Chair of the new West Swindon Parish at a meeting on Wednesday 7 December, with Cllr Tim Swinyard (Con) as vice-chair. Cllr Jim Robbins (Lab), who is also a part of the new West Swindon Parish Council, said: “We have agreed to hold parish meetings at the West Swindon Library, with them open to the public and with an open-question time at the start.

“For the next West Swindon Forum on 8 January, we will be asking residents how they think meetings should work.

For instance, will there still be a need for West Swindon Forum meetings alongside Parish meetings or should Borough councillors just attend the parish and have a standing agenda item where they can answer Borough related questions. I suppose it depends on how the elections go with regards to both councils.”

Get homebuilding and renovation tips at NSBRC January Show The National Self Build and Renovation Centre will once again be throwing open its doors to the public on 27 - 29 January, showcasing the best tips and tricks for building your own home or renovating your existing space as part of their biggest show of the year.

The centre, situated on the Lydiard Fields industrial area near Junction 16, offers 67,000 square feet of exhibition space and this year’s show will take full advantage of that space with over 200 exhibitors as well as live demonstrations of techniques and practices that will enhance your project or provide solutions to those problem builds.

Experts are routinely on hand at the NSBRC, but will be offering their advice to all comers on the day at a variety of workshops and seminars to cover all aspects of

renovation and building your own home.

Architects and designers will also be on hand to guide you through the process of creating your vision and the appropriate legal requirements of your individual circumstances, as well as several major building and renovation companies and providers who will all be able to provide you with quotes on the day for your project.

To book your free tickets ahead of the show or for more information, visit www.nsbrc.co.uk Tickets on the day: £12 per person. swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

Gilberts celebrates 150 years of furnishing the town Gilberts of Swindon celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

The store’s iconic building, which occupies a prominent position on the roundabout at the junction of Newport Street and High Street in Old Town, has changed little since it opened its doors in 1866.

Owner Graeme Gatrill, who joined the firm in 1971, views the rich heritage of the store as one of its greatest assets.

He explained: “Gilberts is in the same building it occupied when it first opened. At one point, the shop had a warehouse in Newport Street and another in Abingdon.

But this building has always been the heart of the business. It’s a very good spot because you get people slowing down to look at what’s in the window.”

Mr Gatrill added that part of the store’s success over the years is that they have managed to build up a great deal of customer loyalty and trust over the years.

“We are into our third generation of families shopping with us. I suppose people recognise the level of personal service and they’ve grown up with us, knowing that we

are a business that they can trust.”

One of the first things a customer will notice when they walk into the store is the vintage typewriter that takes pride of place on Mr Gatrill’s desk. The machine belonged to the store’s former owner, Harry Lawrence, who served at the store for 67 years.

Mt Gatrill explained: “A lot of our customers comment on the typewriter when they come in to the store. Harry joined the store shortly after the war as a French polisher and cabinet maker.

“He would cycle out to the large manor houses and knock at the tradesmen’s entrance to see if any of their furniture needed repairing.

When he became a fully qualified French polisher, he would be allowed to knock at the front door.

That’s how society worked back then. He was a wonderful man and like a father figure to me.”

Mr Lawrence passed away at the age of 87 in 2010, having worked at the store right up until his death but his legacy still lives on.

Although furniture is selling well, carpet fitting has in recent years become the major part of

Owner of Gilberts, Graeme Gatrill , outside the iconic store

the business. Gilberts is one of the oldest established companies in Old Town, along with Deacons the Jewellers and Blaylock’s shoe shop.

The business played a key role during the first World War, when it was called on to supply furniture for Chisledon camp – a key staging post for soldiers.

And the building holds another secret - hidden beneath a large flower planter that dominates a shared entrance with the cycle shop next door is the entrance to a secret

tunnel that in medieval times used to allow monks to sneak from their monastery in the Lawns to the pub and back without being spotted.

Gilberts was founded by former mayor of Swindon John Gilbert before being taken over by Peter Robinson, whose father founded Radio Rentals.

It is now run by Mr Gatrill and his son Geoff.

Gilberts is open six days a week and can be contacted on 01793 431992.

Brass band hit a high note

Swindon Brass members Charlie Teasdale, Cheryl Cowley, Director Francis Cowley, Julie Hedge and Susan Blackwell

Swindon Brass are blowing their own trumpets after managing to secure a permanent rehearsal venue.

The group had found themselves priced out of their previous home at Pegasus Hall in Stratton after a doubling of rent. However, the band was soon able to find a new home at All Saint’s Church on Southbrook Street where they have now been for two months.

And now the 26-strong group is keen to recruit new members.

Group spokeswoman Charlie Teasdale said: “We’re a really friendly band and we’re always on the lookout for new members. We have members from a wide age

group. At the moment our youngest is 18 and our oldest, Musical Director Francis Cowley, is 89.”

Mr Cowley said: “It’s a wonderful group. We all enjoy playing a wide variety of music and we would love to attract new members to come along and join in.”

Musical director Francis Cowley spent 50 years as Musical Director for Swindon Pegasus Brass Band before launching Swindon Brass in 1991.

Swindon Brass practices twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays at 8pm at All Saints Church Community Hall on Southbrook Street. To get in touch, email: enquiries@swindonbrass.co.uk swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Community News

The Spirit of Swindon: Fuel poverty and just about managing – or not.

By Tom Wilkes on behalf of Spirit of Swindon At the beginning of last year, how many of us were convinced that the UK would vote to leave the EU and Donald Trump would be elected as the new President of the USA? The odds may not have been high yet both events happened and highlighted deep divisions in the two nations.

Although a number of factors are agreed to have been at work in both countries, one which has regularly featured in commentaries is inequality – the sense that the gap between the rich and the poor has been increasing. While some are enjoying greater opportunity and prosperity, more and more people feel they have been left behind or left out. Increasing numbers are finding it hard to make ends meet.

‘The system’ is not working.

Last month, in the first article for Spirit of Swindon we pointed out four things: First, that economic inequality is bad for everyone – the most affluent as well as the least.

Second, the UK is one of the most economically unequal developed countries, significantly more so than otherwise similar nations. Third, the strength of our economic base

One in ten households in Swindon experience fuel poverty

combined with our remarkable community spirit and networks mean Swindon is well placed to address inequality issues in our own town and give a lead to others.

Last, but not least, that instead of wringing our hands or saying the issues are too complex, each one of us can decide we have a part to play and do one thing that can make a difference. It may be for an individual or family or it could be for a workforce. Both matter!

Recently we have been hearing about ‘JAMs’ – those who are ‘just about managing’. The line between managing and not managing any longer can be thin. Spirit of Swindon was told the story of a mother with a teenage daughter who works in school as a ‘dinner lady’ and has cared for her own mother, who lives

Nyland school rated ‘good’ by Ofsted and praised for improvements in pupils’ progress Nyland School in Swindon has been rated as ‘a good school’ by Ofsted following an inspection in November.

The school was rated ‘good’ in all areas: quality of teaching and learning, effectiveness of leadership and management, personal development and outcomes for pupils.

Ofsted praised the school’s ambitions for its pupils, its focus on improving their life chances and the introduction of a new curriculum that has enhanced progress. Ofsted also commented on the experienced staff who help pupils to enjoy learning.

Nyland School is part of The White Horse Federation (WHF) multi-academy trust and supports children with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties.

Its principal, Tammy van der Meulen, has only been in post for a couple of months but has already introduced positive changes.

She said: “Since I started as principal at Nyland, we have focused on transforming our curriculum to include a high emotional quotient in everything

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we do. This means that we can support pupils to understand their emotional needs which helps to build their capacity to learn in a positive way.”

The school already offers swimming, horse riding and runs Design and Technology projects, such as building equipment for the playground. In the future, it plans to introduce cycling, forest schools and sailing. These ambitions were acknowledged by the inspectors who commented that all pupils, regardless of their starting point, are making good progress.

Ofsted also said that the school’s governance was strong and that the WHF ensures staff are held to account, as well as supported and rewarded for their work.

Tammy added: “The leadership team at the school have many years of experience and provide a clear vision and strong support to our staff, so morale is high.

The WHF strengthens us further as we know we are part of one large support structure that helps us share expertise and nurtures personal and professional development.”

next door, for over 20 years. The central heating in her house only gets turned on when visitors come, the rest of the time she wears lots of layers and blankets to keep warm in winter or goes to bed early.

When the electricity runs out she will often live in the dark. She was looking for other work but it has proved hard to find a job which fits around child care for her daughter.

The Government publishes figures for ‘Fuel Poverty’ which are supplied by Local Authorities. In 2013 Swindon estimated that out of 93,120 households, 9,115 could be assessed as ‘Fuel Poor’. This is 9.8% of households; a little better than the national figure of 10.6% but worrying. Given that one in 10 households in our town experience fuel poverty it is very likely you may

live near someone who is cutting back on their light or heating in order to make ends meet. Many older people are anxious about the size of their gas or electricity bill.

Not everyone will be willing to talk about their fears or how they are ‘just about managing’ – or not – but the one thing you could do this month is find someone who is experiencing fuel poverty and listen to their story. If you already know someone you could contact their supplier to get advice or support on their behalf. Alternatively you could organise an activity at your workplace to raise awareness of fuel poverty and encourage colleagues to visit neighbours. You may have much more imaginative ideas. Let us know what they are by emailing publisher@swindonlink.com with ‘Spirit of Swindon’ as the subject.

Our borough council has produced a very clear way of visualising some of the issues linked to inequality and going deeper into the statistics at swindonjsna.co.uk/pictures Spirit of Swindon has emerged from a gathering of people who want to raise consciousness of the impact of economic inequality and help Swindon offer a lead to other towns and cities in the UK.

Your child matters

Advice from Panda Childcare Sending your child to preschool or nursery for the first time can be both exciting and unsettling for parent and child.

Preparing your child for the change and having answers to questions like who will be looking after my child, what happens if they cry or become ill, do I need to provide food, drink, nappies, wipes, wellie boots, spare clothes and how your child’s needs will be met can help alleviate stress.

Visits to the setting are important as they allow for the child to get used to their new surroundings and the people who will be caring for them. A good facility understands that every child settles over a different period of time and reacts differently to being left.

Some children need a small familiar object from home to make them feel more secure. When you visit with your child you will have the opportunity to meet the staff and see who your child relates to. This person may become their

keyworker who will develop a special relationship with the child and their family, providing security as a caring and familiar person who will plan activities that meet your child’s interests and development needs, and will answer any worries or concerns you may have.

Be prepared to stay with your child on their first visit and for a short while on their second.

Knowing when to leave your child is equally important as is returning on time.

When you leave make your goodbye short as prolonging this can cause your child to become more anxious. Reassure them that you will be back at a set time after they have had fun playing with their new friends and return when you say.

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Is this...

the shape of things to come?

Director of SMAG, Hadrian Ellory van Dekker with a model of the proposed new museum and art gallery

A vision of Swindon’s proposed new £22m museum and art gallery has been unveiled. Partners and stakeholders have lifted the lid on details of an ambitious plan which promises to revitalise the town centre and secure Swindon’s place as a cultural hub with the creation of an iconic landmark.

Architects were challenged to submit their proposals to transform the site of the former Wyvern Theatre multi-story and ground level car park into the home of a museum and art gallery housing the town’s nationally significant collection of British 20th Century modern art, which includes works

by Lucian Freud, Henry Moore, LS Lowry and Graham Sutherland.

The new building will sit on the footprint of the now demolished multi-story car park overlooking a

large plaza next to Princes Street.

The architects were also asked to create a landmark destination that would form the centrepiece of Swindon’s new cultural quarter, become a significant source of pride and wellbeing for residents and businesses, and attract visitors to Swindon from the wider region and beyond. The winning design, realised in a 3d model, was put on show at Swindon’s current Art Gallery and Museum on Bath Road.

As part of its fund-raising strategy the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery (SMAG) Trust will be applying to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) in November for a grant of around £10 million towards the £22 million project.

Make Architects, whose founder Ken Shuttleworth lives in Wiltshire, were selected to develop the design

concepts to submit to the HLF as part of the bid. Make’s proposal, designed with Arup, Steenson Varming and Alinea, presents a cutting edge venue that includes learning centres, event spaces, cafe and dining areas, a viewing gallery and a generous public realm.

Alongside these are four flexible independent gallery spaces.

The founder of Make Architects, Ken Shuttleworth, said: “Our team is extremely excited by the immense potential of the site. We believe the development of the space is a fantastic opportunity to create a beautiful cultural destination in the heart of Swindon that safeguards, enhances and celebrates the area’s collections, and creates a new and engaging public realm that draws and excites visitors.”

Director of SMAG, Hadrian Ellory

van Dekker, said the design reflected the town’s cultural heritage, was sensitive to the demands of the site and fulfilled the requirements of housing and displaying the town’s collection.

“This was the design that really stood out for us. We didn’t want something safe, or just another glass cube, we wanted something that shows the architects have really thought carefully about the site and how best to show off our wonderful collection.”

Swindon Borough Council has already pledged £5 million towards the project. The Swindon Museum and Art Gallery trust will submit their application for around £10m of Heritage Lottery Fund money in November 2017, where the bid will compete for a national annual allocation of £50m.

e ale s s v i s r S gain etail s a Ma Ye y Bar full d w spla for e N i re D to Ex n S ll i Ca

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Swindon Wide

Trust Swindon’s history to produce the unexpected - The Ovaltineys of his generation.

The Winter 2016 edition also includes an in-depth interview with a remarkable Swindon man, Even as the editor of Swindon Heritage I have become accustomed Lord Joffe of Liddington, who was a personal friend of Nelson Mandela. to it delivering surprises, and As a key lawyer during the our latest magazine – our 16th historic Rivonia Trial in the 1960s, quarterly edition – has a few of Joffe helped to save Mandela from them up its sleeves. the death penalty, and he told us The first is the cover story about the story of his own journey as The Ovaltineys, an instantly a political refugee, which ends recognisable advertising jingle to in Swindon, where he helped to people of a certain age, but one that was groundbreaking in its time. reshape the face of the town.

Now 84, he was a co-founder of Effectively the first mass Hambro Life, a key local employer communication advertising that later became Allied Dunbar, campaign on Britain’s first and he told us why the town has commercial wireless station, Radio inspired him to work for the future Luxembourg, we were surprised to of local people. discover The Ovaltineys were the The magazine also tells of a invention of a Swindon-born man.

Swindon engine driver who helped Harry Hemsley, who was born in to thwart an attempt on the life Regent Street in 1877, wrote the tune, did the voices and even drew of Queen Victoria in 1882, and looks at the rebirth of a former the portraits of The Ovaltineys.

Rodbourne cinema.

But there’s even more to his Meanwhile, we take a look at the story because he was also an accomplished entertainer and came life of a ‘forgotten’ Swindon author and his role in the Spanish Civil from a famous showbiz family.

War, discover a local connection His father, William, a former to Britain’s worst ever maritime Swindon railwaymen who started disaster, and visit a Stratton man painted sets in the Mechanics’ with a remarkable collection.

Institute theatre, went on to Nick Fisher lives in a tiny studio become the foremost set designer History column by Graham Carter of Swindon Heritage magazine

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flat with his cat and - wait for it - 451 typewriters, and is the country’s leading authority on the machine’s intriguing social history.

Word processors and computers may have made typewriters obsolete, and the future of local libraries is also uncertain, thanks to swathing cuts proposed by Swindon Borough Council.

So a history of the spread of reading rooms in the expanding new town of Swindon is a timely article indeed.

The reading rooms were an extension of the pioneering Mechanics’ Institute, which effectively gave the town a public library, six years before they were officially invented.

The history books say Britain’s first public library was opened in Birmingham in 1850, but Swindon railwaymen had access to one as early as 1844, and since the vast majority of the town were GWR employees or related to one, it was a public library in all but name.

With our councillors unable to provide an adequate library service to Swindon residents in the 21st century, it is thought-provoking to discover how we led the country in library provision in the 19th and

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20th centuries.

Swindon Heritage was conceived as a showcase for the town’s proud history, and we think our latest edition provides plenty of reasons to be proud of our achievements, and also reasons why the town should set its ambitions higher in the present and in the future.

Subscribe or buy individual copies of Swindon Heritage magazine at www.swindonheritage.com

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Swindon Wide

guide to live music in Swindon for January Swindon’s live music scene is as diverse and widespread as any in the country. Whether you like chilled out acoustic music, blues, folk, pop, dance, electronica, rock or any other genre you can think of, the scope for musical entertainment is endless.

That’s Christmas over and done with for another year then. So what do we do now? Well, the Swindon music scene never sleeps, and January has a few hidden gems up its sleeve to wash away those postfestive blues.

If you want to get your 2017 off to a rocking start, head down to the Wyvern Theatre on 14 January as Supreme Queen roll into town.

Paying homage to the world’s most theatrical and dramatic rock band, Queen since 1995, Supreme Queen have had a huge impact on audiences across the UK, Europe and Asia.

Front man, Scott Maley plays an uncannily realistic ‘Freddy’ with just the right look, stage persona and, most importantly of all, the most incredibly powerful voice. Scott is joined on stage by an enormously talented band including Nathan Mathers who brings all the electric

Supreme Queen will be breaking free at the Wyvern Theatre on 14 January

guitar virtuosity required to play a very convincing Brian May, and an attention to detail that is truly impressive. Tickets are available from swindontheatres.co.uk If you’re in need of a four day weekend to get you through the rest of January, The Victoria in Old Town have some great acts on Thursday nights to get you dancing and smiling through those Fridays.

The Shadow Monkeys will be a particular highlight on 19 January

with their mix of rock and pop songs for all.

If acoustic acts are more your thing, those devilishly charming chaps over at Songs of Praise are putting on the best in local and travelling unplugged talent at The Rolleston Arms on Commercial Road every Wednesday night, featuring our very own reporter Mike Barham on 4 January, charming acoustic vibes from Nick Felix on 11 January, upbeat

songwriting from Chris Webb on 18 January and joyful tones of Alison Hustwitt on 25 January. All are free entry and a soothing interlude for any manic week. And a great opportunity to check out local acts.

Alternatively, The Rolleston Arms have a series of excellent cover acts every weekend through January, starting with Built For Comfort performing their excellent repertoire of R‘n’B and blues on Friday 6 January and seeing the month out with popular covers from the Blind Lemon Blues Band on 28 January.

On the more rocking side of the spectrum, the Queens Tap on Station Road will be playing host to their own collection of top quality rock covers bands, starting with Swindon’s infamous Penfold on Friday 6 January and completing the month with Metal Gods providing the noise abuse on Friday 27 January and Saturday 28 January sees Last Call rock into town.

There is a world of music to discover in Swindon, besides just our picks here, so for more information on events in the town and beyond, visit: www.theocelot.co.uk

Charity nights going strong at Swindon restaurants

Started in 2008, popular Indian restaurant Bengal Square in Peatmoor has consistently run charitable fundraising nights donating all profits to worthy causes across the Swindon area.

Now, the restaurant is expanding this charitable evening to their newly reopened sister site Mantra in Old Town.

Held every Monday and Tuesday at Bengal Square, and every Tuesday at Mantra, the charity nights have raised over £100,000 to date which has been shared amongst local causes from youth football teams to Macmillan cancer research.

as much as you like for only

Owner Hanif Robbani said: “We donate all profits raised on the evening to the cause of choice, and this can be further added to if the organisers hold a raffle, quiz or auction.

(available at both restaurants)

“Donations from ourselves of £350+ are not uncommon and the best night we’ve ever had raised a grand total of over £3,000.

“We are happy to host events for any worthwhile cause and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a charity.”

To host a fundraising event at Mantra, email your event details to: info@mantraswindon.co.uk Or to host your event at Bengal Square email: info@bengalsquare.co.uk

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info@mantraswindon.co.uk www.mantraswindon.co.uk swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Swindon Wide

The last Link, back in the day Thirty years ago in January 1987 the Link in a newsletter format was published for the last time, writes former publisher Roger Ogle.

The very first, un-named, newsletter had appeared in December 1978 when Toothill resident Geoff Richmond put together an 18 page edition which was distributed to the first 600 homes in Toothill and Freshbrook.

The second edition in early 1979 carried the title Toothill Link, thanks to 12 year old Malcolm Patrick, though the place name was soon dropped as the western expansion grew to include other areas.

For the following eight years The Link appeared every 6 to 8 weeks, produced by a small group of volunteers coordinated by myself.

This was the pre-computer era when electronic communication was still science fiction. It was all very physical, with stories typed on paper, cut and pasted onto layout boards before printing.

For the first few editions the pages were hand stapled together before distribution by more volunteers.

Looking back at those very early editions, the appearance was very primitive. But in a rapidly expanding area community communication was essential so that people knew

what was going on and were kept informed about how to get involved.

The Link quickly became a point of reference for West Swindon which we promoted to create a distinct identity and to get away from the idea of the ‘western expansion.’

And we never miss the opportunity to remind readers that in 1984 Link Centre was named after the newsletter.

By late 1986 it was clear that a newsletter appearing eight times a year was inadequate and volunteer distribution to more than 8,000 homes, was not sustainable.

Another 3,000 homes were to be built to the west of the town and plans for town expansion to the north were taking shape.

Without any serious journalism experience and even less business sense I took the fateful decision to leave a secure job at Thamesdown Borough Council (now Swindon) to publish Link as a monthly from April 1987 with the same objectives: • available free of charge to every home in the target area; • providing very local news and information about opportunities to be part of their locality; • celebrating the efforts of people to build their communities.

Advertising has always been

crucial; apart from financial support from Thamesdown Council and Hambro Life Charitable Life, who funded the first two editions, every publication since March 1979 has paid for itself.

Despite developing into two related publications distributed free to 40,000 homes, in West & North Swindon and since September to Old Town, south and east Swindon, as well as a very busy presence online including Facebook and Twitter, the basic elements of the early days of The Link remain at the core of what it is today.

I believe The Link has always punched above its weight, its success built on a high level of relevant editorial and visual content, a passion for the target community, accuracy, absence of sensationalism and bit of wit included for good measure.

In the shadows has been my wife Ruth, very much the backbone of

the business and long enduring of the commitment required to deliver a quality publication.

The hard work needed to produce The Link has been more than offset by meeting the people who have worked so hard to create the communities they live in. After 38 years involvement, The Link is in good hands since being bought

by James Phipps in 2014 and now edited by Jamie Hill.

Although no longer in the frontline I’ll be contributing an archive column, revisiting past stories with photographs reminding readers what they used to look like.

Lottery supports application to look after church’s unique features St. Mary’s Church in Lydiard Park, on the third attempt, has received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to conserve its historic interiors.

The project will save the building’s medieval wall paintings and star spangled ceiling, repair the 17th Century monuments including ancient carved woodwork and the famous Golden Cavalier.

The grant of £131,700 towards the £186,700 phase will enable the church to complete its development plans and progress to applying for a full grant of £746,700 in 2017/18.

Public access will be improved and the hidden south porch will be reopened with a welcoming interpretation and activity area.

The church plans a wide range of educational activities and events as well as offering training and volunteer opportunities for local people, families, school children and higher education students. These will include hands on conservation workshops and skills training.

St. Mary’s stands behind Lydiard House and is famous for the richness of its monuments to the St.

Paul Gardner and heritage advisor and Friend of Lydiard Park Sarah Finch-Crisp inside St Mary’s

John family who lived at Lydiard for over 500 years. It currently attracts over 8,000 visitors a year from both this country and abroad, and is well used by local schools researching heritage on their doorstep.

Project champion, Rt. Reverend Dr Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon said: “We are delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund has given us this support. St. Mary’s is a national treasure and preserving its unique features will benefit local people

and the nation’s heritage.”

Project manager Hilary Gardner commented: “It is wonderful news and we are immensely grateful to the Heritage Lottery Fund. We’re very excited about taking our plans forward, especially working with the many organisations from across the town – The Friends of Lydiard Park, schools, colleges, local craft organisations, the Swindon Festival of Literature, Prime Theatre and many more – that have

enthusiastically supported the project and pledged their support and involvement.”

Paul Gardner, chair of the fund raising campaign, added: “We have successfully raised the match funding of £55,000 needed for this stage of the project and thank the Heritage Lottery Fund wholeheartedly for making this crucial award.

“HLF backing means our project is regarded as credible and will draw in grants from other sources.”

Nerys Watts, head of HLF South West said: “St Mary’s is an important part of Swindon’s history and home to a unique and nationally significant collection of medieval wall paintings.

“Thanks to National Lottery players we’re delighted to support this vital first step towards securing the future of the collection and its historic Grade I Listed home and enabling even more people to enjoy the stories they hold.”

For further information, contact Paul Gardner at gp.gardner@ btinternet.com or call 07831 868429. swindonlink.com n January 2017

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Swindon Wide MUSIC Friday 6th, 9pm Penfold continue to provide audiences with foot-tapping popular covers. Free entry. Rolleston Thursday 12th, 8pm Lounge Act at The Victoria - Jon Amor, Mike Barham & more.

The Victoria welcomes acoustic performers for a chilled out night of locally sourced musical delight. £3 otd.

The Victoria Saturday 14th, 7.30pm Swindon Recital Series. A stylish evening of classical Cabaret, exploring the lighter (and darker) side of the early twentieth century, featuring Polly Leech, Jennifer Coleman and Paul Turner. £16; concessions £2.50 off. Arts Centre Saturday 14th, 7.30pm

WHAT’S ON SWINDON CHILDREN & FAMILY Until Sunday 8th, 1pm & 5pm & 7pm

Cinderella. The Wyvern Theatre’s 2016/2017 panto will be the fairest in all of Swindon, when the enchanting tale of Cinderella takes to the stage, starring Ryan Thomas, £19 - £31.50; concessions £2 off.

Wyvern Friday 27th to Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Thames Water Panto - Aladdin, Jam and Jerusalem. Staff from Thames Water return for their 20th year. This time they are making a pantomime, about making a pantomime. £13. Wyvern

DRAMA Tuesday 17th, 7.30pm

Supreme Queen have been paying homage to the world’s most theatrical and dramatic rock band, Queen since 1995. £25.50. Wyvern Saturday 14th, 7.30pm Ben and Tom Waters Celebrated father/son piano and saxophone duo playing boogie woogie, rock ‘n’ roll and blues. £17.50. Arts Centre

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Phoenix Players: Cat’s Cradle

By Leslie Sands. An almost forgotten kidnapping and perhaps murder that was never resolved. £11; concessions £1 off. Arts Centre

Wednesday 18th, 7.45pm Marshland (15) Swindon Film Society. Arts Centre

to p£1 lay 4

Registered with the Gambling Commission

Registered Charity Number: 280093

22

£15. Friends discount £1. Arts Centre Wednesday 25th to 28th, 7.30pm

FILM

www.prospect-hospice.net/lottery or call 01793 816190 to join

6

From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads.

Adrian Berry’s acclaimed sell-out production returns in this tale of a young David Bowie obsessive.

Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to Chicago Blues Brothers. This awardjoin at any film screening. winning spectacular is Europe’s biggest and best-loved production Friday 27th, 7.15pm of the Blues Brothers. £26. Wyvern Saturday 21st, 7.30pm Think Floyd. Renowned for their stunning celebration of one of the world’s greatest musical icons, with over 20 years experience faithfully recreating the sound of Pink Floyd live. £25.50. Wyvern Saturday 28th, 8pm StillMarillion. Established tribute to the Fish era of prog rock band Marillion. £8 adv & otd. The Victoria

Tangerines (15) Highworth Community Cinema presents this academy award winning film set during the war in Abkhazia in the early 1990s. £5. St Michael’s Hall

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Swindon Wide

SWINDON COMEDY Wednesday 11th, 7.30pm John Shuttleworth - My Last Will and Tasty Mint Shuttleworth hits the road for his farewell tour. £12.

Arts Centre Friday 13th, 7.30pm The Adult Panto - Puss and Dick The Market Theatre Company give the older generation an alternative to family pantomime. £20. Group discounts available. Wyvern Theatre Wednesday 18th, 8pm

Ross Noble. Everybody’s favourite randomist is back, again, following a sell-out visit in 2016. £27.50.

Wyvern Friday 20th, 8pm Andrew Lawrence. Live at the Apollo comedic star known for his politically incorrect humour. £16.50; concessions £2 off. Arts Centre Saturday 21st, 8pm Shazia Mirza follows an acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe run by taking her new show on tour. £16.50. Arts Centre Friday 22nd, 8pm

Whitewed Directory Wedding Shows Planning your big day is really exciting. These events are a great way to meet your prospective quality wedding suppliers in a relaxed atmosphere and to find out everything you need to plan the perfect day.

Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester: 8 January, 11am-3pm Chiseldon House, near Swindon: 8 January, 12-4pm The Crown of Crucis, near Cirencester: 15 January, 11am-3pm Westonbirt School, Tetbury: 22 January, 11am-3pm Marsh Farm, Royal Wootton Bassett: 29 January, 11am – 3pm Wellington Barn, near Calne: 5 February, 11am-3pm Swindon Marriott, Swindon: 12 February, 11am-3pm Neeld Hall, Chippenham: 12 February, 11am-3pm The Manor Barn, near Salisbury: 19 February, 11am-3pm Village Club, De Vere Swindon: 19 February, 11am-3pm Wrag Barn, Highworth: 5 March, 11am-3pm Each wedding show is different and you’re sure to come home buzzing with ideas and inspiration.

For more information visit www.whitewed.directory

Omid Djalili - Shmuck for a Night. Award winning comedian and actor known for his legendary stand-up performances is back on a nationwide tour. £27.50. Wyvern

VARIETY Friday 20th, 7.30pm Circus of Horrors. The Circus of Horrors celebrates its 21st anniversary as it takes to the road with its latest incarnation; The Never-ending Nightmare. £26; concessions £3 off. Wyvern

DANCE Monday 30th, 3pm & 5.30pm Swindon Schools Dance Festival.

Primary and secondary schools from throughout Swindon and beyond come together to perform dances they have been preparing together, having been inspired by number one singles. £10; Under 16s £3 off.

Wyvern

Wanborough Farmers’ Market Saturday 21st, 9am Meat, vegetables, cakes and pies, honey, rapeseed oil, plants, milk and fairly traded goods. For more information call Sue or David Birley on 01793 790438 or email sbirley@gn.apc.org

Valuation Day opportunity with

Thomas Plant TV expert on Flog It! The Antiques Road Trip & Bargain Hunt

VENUES Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Tel: 01793 534238 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. Tel: 01793 763907 Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 535713 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

Bring along your portable items for a FREE valuation with Thomas, OR members of his team from Special Auction Services

Monday 16th January, 10am to 3.30pm

Jury’s Inn, Fleming Way, Swindon SN1 2NG Valuations are by appointment only.

To arrange a time, please call 01635 580595 or contact us via

www.specialauctionservices.com

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Sport and Leisure Club invites new members to get their skates on

Swindon’s Ice Figure Club pictured at the Children in Need fundraising event.

Swindon’s Ice Figure Club is inviting anyone interested in trying out a new sport to get their skates on and join in the fun.

The Ice Figure Club, which runs from Swindon’s Link Centre, is a NISA affiliated skating organisation, set up to encourage, cultivate and promote amateur ice figure skating at all levels up to the age of 18.

There is also an adult section, ideal for anyone wanting to brush up on their skills, which is run every other Tuesday evening.

The club has had an exciting year, recently taking part in a fashion shoot by London-based photographer Tom Johnson.

And club members were also invited by BBC Points West to skate on live TV at the outdoor rink at Cribbs Causeway as part of their Children In Need fundraising event, where the club raised more than £1,200 by working together to cycle the 140 miles distance from Swindon to London and back on exercise bicycles at the rink. Members also gave Pudsey a skating lesson.

The club holds regular competitions, and social events.

For information about how to join the club log on to Swindon Ice Figure Club’s website at: www.sifc.co.uk.

Fitness centre is causing a buzz

Swindon’s newly opened Buzz Gym is proving a hit with customers looking to burn off the festive excesses.

The 24-hour facility, in the Brunel Centre, boasts luxury showers and changing rooms.

Buzz Gym Owner Adam Stowell said: “Our aim is to create a buzz in the club, from our luxury fit out to our live DJs and unique challenge zone, Buzz Gym brings a new fresh face of fitness to Swindon.”

The 15,000 sq ft gym is divided into distinct fitness zones.

The Challenge Zone: this contains training rigs, sprint tracks, sleds and tyres. Friendly competition is encouraged.

The Strength Zone: The extensive strength zone comes with Olympic platforms, racks, dumbbells up to

60kg and plate loaded equipment.

The Resistance Zone: Great for beginners, the Resistance Zone contains easy to use resistance machines for working individual body parts and cable stations for more flexible resistance training.

The Cardio Zone: A large area full of cardiovascular equipment including treadmills with integrated TVs, climbmills, cycles, and elliptical machines plus the Boxing Zone.

With two studios the gym offers free classes using dedicated external studio instructors which include Les Mills Grit and Sprint, spin, Buzz Pump, yoga, pilates and zumba.

Buzz Gym offer low-cost, nocontract gym membership.

Book for £19.99 a month. www.buzzgym.co.uk/swindon-gym

Treated Landscape Sleepers (Pine for longevity) 2.4 metres long by 200 x 100mm • • • • • • •

Gates Fencing Decking Trellis Panels Wood Preservatives Garden Tools Raised Garden Beds

T: 01793 783879

E: jez1@webbswood.co.uk

W: www.webbswood.co.uk

Find us on facebook.com/webbswood Proud sponsors of Swindon Supermarine FC

Southdown Farm, Faringdon Road, (A420) Longcot, Oxon SN7 7UA 24

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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.

57 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

Affordable Personal Care for Your Feet North Wiltshire

Tree Stump Removal Specialists www.Stumpbusters.co.uk Competitive rate Fully insured • Free quote NPTC qualified Office: 01793 772600 Mob: 07799 693139

SE January 2017 Master Pages.indd 25

Treatments: Nail cutting (feet & hands) Nail deformities & ingrowing toenails Nail infections Verrucae treatment Corns & callus treatment Diabetic foot care Contact Joan Schofield MCFHP MAFHP 07763 908167 Hours to suit your busy lives

www.healthy-happy-feet.co.uk

15/12/2016 10:48

Sport and Leisure

Exercise, dieting and a healthy body As the new year rolls in, we all look at that figure in the mirror and decide to do something about it. Some achieve, some falter but January is the month for hitting the gym and working off those Christmas gains.

Swindon has a multitude of gyms and sports centres you can visit, with GLL opening their new gym at the Link Centre in West Swindon (see page 33) just before Christmas acting as a prime example, as well as the new Old Town gym; Anytime Fitness and Buzz Gym in the Brunel Centre.

But all of the equipment and space in the world isn’t effective without focusing on what you want from it and having people around you who can help achieve your goals, or without fuelling yourself correctly and eating well.

Pride of Swindon award winner Ricardo Defazio, a local personal trainer and life coach, had these wise words for those looking to get fitter in every way in 2017.

He said: “2017 is your new start point. It’s time to stop searching for happiness, in a book or your phone. It’s about becoming the fire of happiness within. 2017 is a new start in our solar system. Let all the ups and downs from 2016 lie in the past, and keep taking small steps forward to a new you.

“I cycled a lot in 2016, over 4,000

26

miles across Europe after 15 years off the bike, and came up against a mountain of different issues, but I noticed that the bigger the climb, the better the view at the top, and decided to take this into my everyday life.

“We all find ourselves in difficult places at times, but remember

Richard Parker’s six-year-old son Ben beat him in a Santa Dash at Coate Water in 2015, he vowed to transform his lifestyle so he wouldn’t feel like such a turkey again. Two years on, the dad-ofone from Stratton, has certainly fulfilled his promise and shed three stone to boot. Richard and Ben,

time is always on your side. Get to know yourself and your ability.

Sometimes life will take over and you may not discover what lies within. So from me to you, start the new year knowing the old you, and start your new journey with small steps. Nothing is more powerful than a changed mind, remember that.”

If you needed more motivation to get fit in the new year, how about this; When Swindon resident

now nine, recently took part in a 5km Reindeer Run and crossed the finish line together in under 30 minutes early in December.

The positive changes were kickstarted by the innovative Football Fans in Training (FFIT) scheme, run by the Council in partnership with Swindon Town Football in the Community Trust.

Richard, 42, who works as an administrator at Zurich, said: “I feel fantastic. My life has totally

changed for the better and I got so much out of the scheme. I’ve sorted my fitness out, I’ve lost loads of weight and I’m happier now than I’ve ever been.”

“I didn’t pay any attention to what I ate or drank and the portions were also far too big. I ate fruit and vegetables but I didn’t have enough of them and snacked on crisps and chocolate. I also liked to sink a few pints and would often polish that off with a kebab.”

Although the scheme put Richard through his paces, he thrived on the challenge. He said: “I absolutely loved it and you learn so much. There was a great sense of camaraderie and we all spurred each other on. The competitive aspect was brilliant too and going on to win the tournament in Scotland was such an amazing feeling.”

Alternatively, should you wish to take up exercise away from the gyms and classes, Swindon has a broad selection of fitness retailers that can help you get active on your own terms. Hargroves Cycles would be an ideal place to start, with a broad array of bikes to suit any budget and purpose, not only saving you money on fuel, but also making fitness a benefit not a chore. Visit them in store on Penzance Drive or head to: www.hargrovescycles.co.uk

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Sport and Leisure

Expand your mind and cultural horizons How about volunteering?

The Oink Gallery in Old Town

Swindon has always maintained a respected, diverse, artistic and cultural offering for its residents.

These range from large events such as the Swindon Fringe Festival, Swindon Shuffle, Swindon LitFest and the Old Town Festival, (all of which will be returning in 2017) through to almost nightly live music, theatrical and creative offerings. The town has an abundance of venues such as Swindon Arts Centre, The Victoria and Oink Gallery in Old Town, The Bohemian Balcony at the old Palladium Cinema in Rodbourne

and the Shoebox and Wyvern theatres in the town centre.

If you feel the urge to learn new skills in 2017, both Swindon College and New College offer a huge array of courses for learners of any age and level of experience, whilst UTC offer an alternative for the more technically minded to hone their skills. And of course there is always the option of enrolling with Oxford Brookes University.

Make 2017 the year of expanding your mind with a show, a visit to a gallery or by learning new skills.

Volunteers provide vital support to organisations in Swindon and the people they are working to support.

Are you free on Saturdays?

Uplands Educational Trust are looking for people to help support their Saturday Youth Club for young people aged 11-19 with disabilities, either physical or learning. You will be helping with trips, arts & crafts and sport and more.

Want a home based role and are passionate about adult education? The WEA is an adult education charity and they would like to be able to offer courses in Swindon. They are looking for a volunteer who can support the Area Education Manager with tasks such as choosing courses that could be run, distributing publicity and supporting the tutor in the classroom. This role would suit someone with tutoring or teaching experience Looking to gain admin experience? Adult Community Health – Swindon based at the Great Western Hospital has various departments where you could assist staff with administrative

/ clerical type duties. There is a range of tasks that you can get involved with to suit your skills and experience Do you want to help promote equality and support for the LGBT people? Swindon and Wiltshire Pride have a range of roles on offer to support the planning of the annual Pride event, including looking for event sponsors, writing press releases, researching and applying for funding.

Enjoy singing? Why not help with Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain group in Freshbrook on a Monday. You will be helping set up, welcoming attendees and helping them join in the session as well as making refreshments.

To find out how you can get involved in these or any of the many other volunteering opportunities please contact Volunteer Centre Swindon on 01793 420557 or email info@ swindonvolunteers.org.uk .

We are at 1 John Street Swindon and we would love to see you between 11am -3pm Monday to Friday. You can also find these at the Do-it website: https://do-it.org

Need a financial health check for 2017?

UTC Swindon

How to keep those resolutions Now this is the hard part. You make those resolutions, you swear you’ll keep them, yet when February rolls in you find yourself back into old habits. So how do you keep resolutions? Especially the ones like drinking, smoking and weight loss.

Seeking out help to keep those commitments and achieve your goals is always advisable, and should be sought in a positive way.

There is never any harm in finding someone to talk to about your issues and how you want to resolve them, ranging from weight loss to giving up cigarettes and anything else you want to rectify in 2017.

Counselling services are one way of keeping yourself goal-orientated, and should not be feared, especially with the compliment of skilled counsellors working in the Swindon area, such as Elaine Watt who runs Focussed Counselling in

West Swindon or counsellor Simon Vizard, both of whom our readers may have seen regular advice from in the magazine.

For those tackling relationship and emotional challenges, Relate offer free counselling options Another alternative, if you feel your resolutions need a different approach, could be hypnotherapy.

Professionals across the Swindon area, including The Hypnotherapy Studio in Cricklade and Lucy Brown Hypnotherapy in North Swindon, can offer a counselling service with a difference and help you focus on your aspirations for the new year.

The NHS Choices website offers helpful advice on a number of subjects, as well as a list of counsellors in your direct area.

Visit the site at: www.nhs.uk/ conditions/Counselling

The end of the tax year may seem like a long way off, and you’re probably thinking “why should I worry about April? I have enough on my plate already.”

Taking stock after the Christmas spending spree is always a good idea, as some of us reach for the credit cards to get us through the festive period. However, when the new year rolls in, budgeting and financial stability are key to keeping the stress of a seasonal financial hangover away.

Peter Bromiley ACA, director of Swindon based AMS Accountancy, shared some tips on managing finances in the new year. He said: ”The tax year ends on 5 April so, if you want to make any investment

decisions or pension contributions, it’s a good idea to be thinking about them in January.

“Work out your likely taxable income, maybe get help from your accountant regarding possible tax-saving actions, and – if you need your Financial Advisor to do something – tell them as early as you can in 2017 as they’ll be rushed off their feet in March.”

The best thing to do if you have any financial worries is to not try and struggle through on your own.

Seek advice as soon as you feel in difficulty from a professional financial advisor or your bank, who will be able to provide you with information on how to solve most issues. swindonlink.com n January 2017

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SERVICE SECTOR

Service Sector - Your guide to local services YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL SERVICES

Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member

Independently owned & operated To arrange for a free estimate call

01793 421802 www.abacuscleaningservices.co.uk

M & J Upholsterers

FURNITURE WANTED

RE-UPHOLSTERY & ALL SUITE REPAIRS

SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35

Re-upholstery of 3 piece suites, dining & fireside chairs etc.

Also new seat interiors Seams - Zips - Springs

LEATHER CLEANING Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

Call 07709 453949 emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

WHITE VAN MAN

A charity providing furniture, white goods and household items to local people in need Call the collections line on 01793 683146 HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

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

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

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

Chrome sockets and switches Home extensions/rewires Replacement fuse boards Kitchen & bathroom electrics Data cabling/office conversions Garage/garden power Decorative lights Fault finding/repairs Free help and advice

Fully insured to £2m

Call Dan: 07791 791513 Email: dan@boylectrical.co.uk Visit: www.boylectrical.co.uk

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

PLANS DRAWN Loft conversion & extension specialist. Complete house design and commercial work undertaken.

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

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

TEL: 01793 536784 SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS BRICKS, CONCRETE BLOCKS, CELCON BLOCKS, BLOCK PAVING,

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

SWINDON ROOFING COMPANY

From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given.

7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

34 Queens Road Royal Wootton Bassett Swindon SN4 8AW

01793 239 559

info@swindonroofingcompany.co.uk www.swindonroofingcompany.co.uk

OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

PATIO SLABS, SAND,

ALL WORK COMES WITH A CERTIFICATE OF GUARANTEE

GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, BARK, CANTABURY SPAR,

FREE SCAFFOLDING NO EXTRA COST

LANDSCAPE FABRIC,

THE COMPANY YOU CAN RELY ON!

DRAINAGE CHANNELS, BUILDING CHEMICALS, ROCK SALT AND CEMENT

www.sansums.co.uk 28

Before

After

GUTTERS CLEANED FROM £20

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SERVICE SECTOR

Service Sector - Your guide to local services 41

YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL SERVICES

SWINDON GAS SERVICES

DECORATOR

www.swindongasservices.co.uk

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 8, Central Trading Estate Signal Way, Swindon SN3 1PD

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

Semi-retired Plumber SURESTOP SWITCH

installed for hard to get at or seized stop cock

01793 847517 ★ boiler changes ★ boiler breakdown ★ full central heating systems ★ heating system upgrades ★ power flushing ★ bathroom suites ★ all types of plumbing work undertaken ★ no call out charge ★ 15 years experience 550065

Alison J Hook Painter, Decorator & General Handywoman • Free no obligation quotes • Fully insured

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

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

• Interior/exterior work • No job too small • Reliable, honest, friendly service

t: 01793 692149 m: 07780 915446 e: ajh.decor@gmail.com

Working in and around the Swindon area

Call 07970 061123 Email errol@jpsm.co.uk www.jpsm.co.uk

Promote your business on paper and online @ swindonlink.com Call Sue Roberts to discuss our combined advertising packages

01793 781502

www.trevorwyse.com

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part P Registered Part P Registered

• Extra Sockets/lights Extra Sockets/lights • • Fuse Board Upgrade • Fuse Board Upgrade

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and Complete Rewires • • Complete Rewires No job too small!

• • No job too small!

Connected Connected Electrical Electrical && Property Services Property Services Call Geoff : 07824 314080 or Tel: 07824 314080 or 01793 703308 01793 703308 Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

• Specialise in wet rooms • Supply and fix service • Complete bathroom service • Underfloor heating • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering • Free estimates Contact Mat: 07738 298803 or 01793 728283 mat@middlesextilingltd.co.uk www.middlesextilingltd.co.uk

• NEW BUILDS & EXTENSIONS • PLUMBING • JOINERY • FASCIAS & SOFFITS • GARDENING & MAINTENANCE • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Make an impact!

Call 01793 721455 or 07976 885203

STYLISH BATHROOMS

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Approved installer for BATHSTORE and WREN. 5 year guarantee on all workmanship.

Fully insured CRB Police checked

01793 320773 07779 006360

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Puzzle 7

10

10

12

13

14

15

15

20

16

21

22

23

26

22 Good; 26 Very Good; 31 Excellent.

11

25

17

18

22

23

24

25

19

26

28

31 29

30

31 34

31

ACROSS

DOWN

1.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

15.

16.

2. Literate person (6) 3. Lump (6) 4. Desert-dwelling rodent (6) 5. Mortal (6) 6. Stint (6) 7. Heavy food (6) 12. Potato (inf.) (4) 13. Defensive trench (4) 14. Slim (4) 17. Boy’s name (4) 18. Bog fuel (4) 19. Action (4) 21. Capital of Greece (6) 22. Call in question (6) 23. Jovial (6) 24. Intensify (6) 25. Habit (6) 26. Merchant (6)

20.

24.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

30

I

E

S

I

D

T R Y

There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, you should not have to guess.

6 9 4 1 6 2 7 2 8 9 6 4 1 2 3 5 4 8 9 6 4 8 2 7 5 8 2 7 5 6 6 3 9 2

SOLUTIONS

8

32

Wasteful (8) Rouse (6) Tumble (4) Furrow (3) Coiffure (inf.) (6) Milk pudding (8) Push forward (6) Scooped up with the tongue (6) Having an assignation with (6) Ten-year period (6) Put to death (8) Polish composer (6) Little devil (3) Chat (4) Mystery (6) Outstanding event (8)

V

SUDOKU

27

32

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which, when placed correctly in the grid, will form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

Impugn; 23 Genial; 24 QUICK Deepen; 25 Custom; CROSSWORD 26 Dealer.

Across – 1 Prodigal; 8 Excite; 9 Fall; 10 NONAGRAM Rut; 11 Hairdo; 12 derv; dire; direst; dirt; Semolina; 15 Propel; dirty; diver; divers; 16 Lapped; 20 Dating; DIVERSITY; divert; 24 Decade; 27 drey; driest; drive; Executed; 28 Chopin; dyer; erst; iris; resit; 29 Imp; 30 Talk; 31 rest; revisit; ride; rise; Enigma; 32 Landmark. rite; rive; rived; rivet; sire; sired; stir; stiver; stride; strive; strived; tidier; tier; tire; tired; trey; tried; tyre; tyred; verity; verst; vert; very; vestry.

11

ADVANCE EVE’S SCENE

MAGIC SQUARE aces; cave; even; send.

9

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Target scores:

Down – 2 Reader; 3 Dollop; 4 Gerbil; 5 Lethal; 6 Scrimp; 7 Stodge; 12 Spud; 13 Moat; 14 Lean; 17 Alec; 18 Peat; 19 Deed; 21 Athens; 22

7

3 4 6 2 7 9 5 1 8

6

5 7 9 8 4 1 3 6 2

6

1 2 8 6 5 3 7 4 9

5

8

4 1 7 5 6 8 2 9 3

5

9 3 2 4 1 7 8 5 6

4

6 8 5 9 3 2 4 7 1

3

7 6 3 1 8 4 9 2 5

2

MAGIC SQUARE

8 9 1 7 2 5 6 3 4

1

NONAGRAM

2 5 4 3 9 6 1 8 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

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