June 2014 Swindon Link

North Swindon vicar Venerable Caroline Baston marks 20 years of women’s ordination. See page 6

Summer Trollbeads Week from 27 to 31 May at Deacons of Old Town. See page 21

SWINDON

No. 385 June 2014 • Circulation 27,000

Eat & Drink as much you like at Peatmoor or Old Town See page 34

the positive newsforce • swindonlink.com

Whoopi backs community radio station Swindon 105.5 now has an international patron after station manager Shirley Ludford met American film and TV star Whoopi Goldberg.

Shirley asked for her support in early May when they met in a New York television studio, thanks to a trip arranged by ITV’s Surprise Surprise programme.

See the full story on page 3

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1-18 June 14.indd 1

16/05/2014 14:29

Children’s charity helped by DHL Iceland

Enterprise project on tour with a Dalek

Swindon CALM (Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Movement) was in the 105.5 radio caravan presented with a cheque for almost £13,500 by staff who work at DHL Outset Swindon is touring the town with Swindon 105.5 community radio Iceland Distribution Centre in West Swindon at the end of April. at the end of June to raise awareness of what they both offer.

The Outset Swindon programme, Station manager Shirley Ludford funded by Swindon Council and the said: “Getting out into the commuEuropean Regional Development nity is a great way of reaching people Fund, offers free guidance and sup- and getting key messages across in an port services to people living in the informal way”. town who are interested in starting Look out for the 105.5 radio caratheir own business or are thinking van and a friendly Dalek and drop of self-employment. On offer are in to talk about starting your own information sessions, workshops, businesses, or find out how to use the one-to-one support and help with radio station. accessing finance.

From Monday 23 June to Friday 27 Volunteers from Swindon 105.5 June, the team will be visiting Penhill, DHL / Iceland staff distribution centre present CALM secretary Lucy Young with will be showing people how they can North Swindon Library, Cavendish their donation and chairman Richard Crowley holds a large bag of loose change and foreign coins to be converted into cash. Photo: Richard Wintle Calyxpix.com promote their interests, organisations Square, Broadgreen, Link Centre and or events via the radio station, and Toothill. For timings nearer the week, During the last year staff from the and emotional support to families learn how to make radio programmes. see swindon1055.com distribution site have raised money for who have a child diagnosed with Agreeing to the road trip, Jane Pearce, Manor Singh and Maria Holohan of the charity at a site open day, a golf day, cancer or leukaemia.

Outset, left with 105.5 volunteer Danny Durkin and Shirley Ludford a wine tasting evening, a charity curry CALM secretary Lucy Young said: night, a children’s Christmas party “The staff at DHL Iceland, led by and raffle, as well as runners taking Melanie Milne and Sharon Noyes, part in the Swindon Half Marathon. have been committed and enthusiasA team also ran an 89 mile relay tic, organising a wide variety of sucalong The Ridgeway and transport cessful fundraising events. Our help driver Kim Beresford cycled 830 miles for families is not possible without around Iceland in support of CALM the fantastic support of caring people and Prostate Cancer. such as the staff at DHL Iceland.”

CALM is an independent Swindon Read the full story with more images charity which helps provide financial at: bit.ly/icecalm

It was in cr helpful to have edibly Outset. the sup Withou port of t them have kn I continu own where to wouldn’t ed netw begin. T orking he an asse even t to me as a loca ts are also l busines Alex Se s.

Ask AMS Advice for small businesses

Q: I am a VAT registered IT consultant and I invoice an Agency for my time. Occasionally, I recharge expenses for travel and accommodation. My Agency refuses to pay the VAT on these recharged expenses – saying they are a ‘disbursement’ and VAT shouldn’t be applied. I’m out of pocket. Is this right?

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swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 2

16/05/2014 14:45

Whoopi becomes radio station’s international patron Community communications in the town have received a huge boost after American film and TV star Whoopi Goldberg agreed to be a patron of Swindon 105.5 community radio.

She joins Lord Joel Joffe who represents community and Simon May, composer of the award winning Shirley interviewing Whoopi for Swindon 105.5 Eastenders theme tune representing music. With Whoopi humour and forthright point of view. from the world of arts, the three key Shirley said: “I was amazed when areas of the station’s ethos are covered recording Surprise Surprise in the said station manager Shirley Ludford. ITV studios and Whoopi appeared 105.5’s profile received national on a live link to say how valuable attention in March when Shirley was 105.5 is to Swindon and invited me featured on ITV’s Surprise Surprise to visit her in New York. programme. At first she thought “I couldn’t believe what was hapthe film crew were making a feature pening.” about community radio; by the fourth James joined Shirley on the five day visit she discovered her son James had trip, during which they went to see sneakily nominated her for a surprise. a recording of ABCs daily women’s Asked by the producers who she discussion show The View where would like to meet, Shirley said she Whoopi is a panel member. had always wanted to chat to Whoopi Afterwards they met up. Shirley Goldberg because of her sense of style, said: “Whoopi was really warm and

friendly and talked about being so proud to have just become a grandmother, and arranging a special birthday party for her daughter.

“She was very complimentary about my work reaching into all aspects of the local community over many years and through Swindon 105.5.

“I then dared ask whether she would be willing to lend her name as a patron of the station and she readily said yes.’

“I was really pleased to come back to the station and tell the volunteers that we now had a famous international patron for the station.

“I have some great memories from the week - and with regards to Whoopi, she was just as I had imagined and hoped, and just as lovely and natural off-stage. She even gave me some tips for a special royal event I will be attending in June.”

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1-18 June 14.indd 3

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16/05/2014 11:57

Fun at Freshbrook Village Centre

Widowed group rebrands as Just Friends In September 2013 The National Organisation of the Widowed, without warning, went into administration leaving branches across the country penniless as all individual bank accounts were shut down.

However, seven years after forma- the theatre. tion, the Swindon branch continues as Secretary Ann Humby said: “Please an independent group providing sup- come along to see if you like us. Do port and friendship to the widowed. bring a friend if you fear coming on Now called Just Friends, the group your own for the first couple of times. meets every second Monday of the We all know how difficult it is to try month, 1.45pm to 3.45pm at Emlyn somewhere different when you’re on Square Community Centre to enjoy your own.” company over refreshments, listen to Find out more by contacting Ann: speakers, take part in quizzes and plan ann.humby@ntlworld.com or 01793 trips out to places of interest and to 497081.

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Five years ago a group of people stepped up to the plate to run Freshbrook Community Centre after it had closed due to mis-management.

After refurbishment by Swindon Emma Tanner said: “The charity is Council, the building reopened in well run and sustainable, but we really 2010 and has been completely turned need people to come forward and be around with over 30 user groups each involved in decision making. week and parties every weekend.

“It’s a success story but constituSo successful has the committee tionally we have to have volunteers become that it now employs four on the committee and in the main part-time staff to deal with day to day officer positions.” operations, and has also taken on reThe committee is open to people sponsibility for Peatmoor Social Hall. living in Freshbrook, Peatmoor and However after 5 years several surrounding areas. For details call members are going to step down at Emma on 01793 870526 (weekday the annual general meeting on 16 9am to midday) or mail: freshbrookJuly, 6.30pm. Centre administrator communitycentre@hotmail.co.uk

Corrections The correct web address for the Swindon Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Gablecross is swindonsanctuary.co.uk The sponsors of the simulated babies supplied to the West Swindon Emerge youth project, are the Lydiard Partnership Mothers Union Project, not the Women’s Institute as reported in the May edition.

Members of the Lydiard Partnership Mothers Union Mavis McLaughlin, Jean Brock and Doreen Henderson with Imogen Kershaw, left, and teens Lisa Ballard and Skye Thorpe.

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

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NO Hall, stairs and landing surcharges NO Hidden Extras

Committee members need to come forward to prevent Freshbrook community building closing

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The £90,000 project to revamp Freshbrook village centre - the first since it was built in the mid-1980s - will be celebrated with a free fun relaunch on Tuesday 27 May, 10am to 12noon.

There will be a bouncy castle, refreshments and attractions put on by volunteers and traders at the village centre.

“A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS THAT DELIVERS SERVICE, QUALITY AND VALUE FOR MONEY”

Editorial for July: 9 June Published: 28 June Copy for August: 7 July ‘Like’ Swindon Link

swindonlink

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for July advertisements: 6 June Swindon Link magazine

Take a Google tour of The Link office @ www.bit.ly/Linkofficetour “The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

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

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

Articles and photographs require similar authority.

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

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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16/05/2014 11:56

Spending £1 million gets closer Toothill Big Local Partnership Committee has made huge strides towards realising their £1million National Lottery grant by submitting a community vision document for endorsement by the Big Local Trust.

Commenting on the progress so As community engagement steps far, committee chair Kareen Boyd up, the committee is appealing said: “Toothill resident and vice-chair for administration assistance, parPeter Egan has done an outstanding ticularly with regard to managing its job in producing the Profile, Vision website and social media presence. and Plan document which is a crucial This is a funded position and anyone milestone in the process. interested in applying should mail: “It identifies the main priorities toothill.bl2013@outlook.com for Toothill based on community Meanwhile, more small grants research carried out since 2011 and have been made available to Toothill also highlights the possibility of organisations through the Big Loawarding sports bursaries to talented cal community chest programme. individuals and groups.”

CCTV provision for the doctors’ According to the document the surgery; a storage shed for Oliver priority focus areas include sports, Tomkins School; interim roof repairs play areas, parks and open spaces; for Toothill Scouts’ base at the farm; the community and village centre, a new dishwasher for the community and Toothill Farmhouse and former centre and support for the Toothill milking barn often referred to as the Women’s Group have all been made ‘Cow Shed.’ possible recently.

Describing the next steps Kareen The summer round of community said: “Now that our plan is ready chest bids opens on 1 July, with trainfor endorsement we are on track to ing available for prospective bidders invite larger bids from the £1million on 2 and 10 July. pot by July.”

Facebook: Toothill Big Local

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Young people from SMASH shooting a horror musical Lily’s Revenge at Toothill Farm in the 2013 summer holidays. Photo: Keith Phillips. Watch it at bit.ly/LILY99

A film club launches at Toothill Farm in June and organiser Keith Phillips of Ideal Films is appealing for enthusiastic young people to get involved, watch films, learn about making films, even perhaps make one of their own – and enjoy free pizza.

“We’re offering young people the opportunity to run their own film club as part of the national network called Into Film,” said Keith. “They will be able to broaden their film viewing experience, and learn a bit about the culture of film, as well as how they are made.”

Ideal Films have worked with students from Isambard and Com-

monweal schools and youth mentoring organisation SMASH to produce short films. ‘Surprise Party’ by Commonweal students was nominated in the 11 to13 short films category at the 2013 National Youth Film Festival.

The Toothill Film Club has received funding from the Big Local Community Chest. Keith added: “It would be great if this could become a club led by young people deciding what programme they want to run, when they want it to happen and what other media related activities they would like to experience” To express your interest mail: keith@idealfilms.com

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swindonlink.com • June 2014

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16/05/2014 14:48

Swindon priest travels to London to celebrate women in the Church of England An estimated 3,000 people marched in early May from Westminster Abbey to St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate 20 years since the ordination of women. North Swindon vicar Venerable Caroline Baston was amongst the first in 1994 and describes the occasion I had only waited five years, having begun my ministry in 1989, but I will never forget the woman of 66 who stood alongside me.

She had first felt called by God to be a priest when she was 18 years old.

On 3 May I was part of the national celebrations at St Paul’s Cathedral, along with all the women still alive and able, who had been ordained as priest back in 1994.

There was a march from West-

Twenty years ago I was ordained as a priest – one of the first group of women to be so ordained in the Church of England.

The ceremony took place at Romsey Abbey which was founded in Norman times by an eccentric Benedictine abbess who would have rejoiced at the moving and exciting occasion in 1994, as the gifts of women were finally allowed to be exercised within the priesthood of the church.

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minster Abbey to St Paul’s where we munities I have served at Thornhill, gathered with Justin Welby, Arch- Winchester, Chilcomb, Chesil, the bishop of Canterbury, to celebrate Isle of Wight and now here in the the contribution of women priests. parish of St Andrew, North Swindon.

It was an amazing occasion. The I give thanks to the bishops who saw congregation clapped for 14 minutes potential within me, gave me responas we all entered sibility and then through the vast encouraged me in west doors. The the exercising of service was upliftthat responsibility. ing , humbling , Our ordinatear-jerking and tions back in 1994 joyful – all at the were significant, same time. not just for the This last month church – as imhas been a time to portant as that was reflect on what it and is still today, all means. I give as the Church of thanks for all those Caroline, joyful at St Paul’s England debates – living and dead – who sowed, whether women can be bishops. watered and nurtured the gift of But it’s important for all women, faith in me: parents, grandmothers, and especially for those who are family, clergy, religious communi- denied education, exploited or trafties and those near and far who have ficked, those girls who are left to die inspired my own journey of faith on street corners, and those women across the years. who have no access to basic maternity I give thanks too for the com- or health care.

Wealth gap now the same as the 1920s Income inequality damages all of us. That’s the message a Swindon group promoted in the Brunel Arcade on 26 April.

Based on the principles of the best-selling book ‘The Spirit Level’ by Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett and affiliated to The Equality Trust, the Swindon Equality Group was formed a year ago to raise awareness and the shocking facts of the differences between the richest and poorest, and the challenging questions facing society.

“The UK is one of the most unequal countries in the developed world,” said group member Tom Wilkes, right. “The average pay for top directors is £4.5 million per year but vidual is now powerless to prevent relative earnings for most people in the wealth gap in society, which is the UK are only 1p per hour higher now comparable to the 1920s, getting even wider. than they were in 2003.

Their first target is to encourage “People in more equal societies live longer, have better mental health and Swindon employers to pay the Livhave better chances for a good educa- ing Wage (currently set at just £7.65 tion regardless of their background. per hour) rather than the statutory “Community life is stronger where minimum wage. In April Nationthe income gap is narrower, children wide, one of the largest employers in do better at school and they are less Swindon, made the commitment to likely to become teenage parents. pay this figure.

To join the group, or find out more, When inequality is reduced people trust each other more, there is less mail Tom at: swindonequality@ violence and rates of imprisonment gmail.com See the video explaining inequality are lower.”

The group believes that the indi- in the UK: equalitytrust.org.uk

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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15/05/2014 16:19

Foodbank gets a new van.

More sponsors’ logos wanted Having a reliable van to make collections for Swindon people in food crisis and deliver it to local distribution centres is absolutely vital to the work of Swindon Foodbank.

The Vine Church “Enjoy one of our sunday services you will find them relaxing, refreshing, and fun” Now meets at Liden Primary School Liden Drive, SN3 6EX

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Recently the charity was able to replace its long serving vehicle with a nearly new Peugeot and took the opportunity to make a subtle change to the logo displayed on it.

David Hartridge, Swindon Foodbank manager, above, said: “We are very grateful to a London-based firm of solicitors who helped us replace the van, and thankful to Fish Bros and Aura Signs who both gave us great

deals on the supply of the vehicle and the signwriting “A number of other local businesses have their logos on the van which shows their support for Swindon Foodbank. There is room for a couple more.”

If you’d like to support a great local charity and advertise at the same time, contact David: office@swindonfoodbank.co.uk or 07932 108 732.

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Bios takes positive activities to young people A former supermarket van has been pimped up to provide young people across the town a place to meet in their neigbourhood.

Fifty five businesses made donations totalling £1,100 to have their logos graffitied on the Bios van. Link magazine publisher Roger Ogle with James Phipps of lead sponsor Excalibur Communications & IT. Photo: Richard Wintle of calyxpix.com

Equipped with electronic entertainment, sports equipment, music, crafts, as well as refreshments, the Bios van is now used by 350 young people at 12 locations in Swindon, providing opportunities to meet their friends and youth workers in an informal setting, and make positive life choices.

The van was funded by a £65,000 grant from the community initiative fund set up by Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus MacPherson, and sponsorship from many local businesses.

Youth worker Amy Cox said more

volunteers would make it possible to take the mobile youth club to more places. “We currently visit schools during lunch break and after school, then park in different locations during the evening. Our aim is to work with young people aged ten to twenty years who perhaps who wouldn’t engage if they had to go into a building. There is a come and go atmosphere which doesn’t restrict the users.”

To find out about volunteering with Bios contact: amy@settings4life.org. uk or call 07443 640183.

See the full story at: bit.ly/bioslaunch swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 7

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16/05/2014 10:16

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Eager response to sewing help A story in the May Link stimulated great interest from readers inspired by the Great British Sewing Bee. We featured Yvonne Henson, 75, from Sparcells, who provides low cost lessons in dressmaking, alterations, quilting, embroidery and applique to small groups or on a one to one basis from a small office at Basepoint business centre.

Yvonne said: “The programme has sparked an interest in sewing skills, as they are not taught in school to any depth nowadays. But I was taken aback by the response. I started receiving calls as soon as The Link came out.

In three weeks I had well over 20 calls, most of whom are absolute beginners.

For details call Yvonne on 07806 She offers lessons at just £6.50 for two hours, not including materials. 883080 or 01793 602484.

Knit and a natter in the library A new group for everyone who loves to knit, crochet or work with yarn - or wants to learn how to - has started at West Swindon Library, fortnightly on Mondays, 2pm to 4pm - the next being 2 June.

Set up by Jane Francis from The and so is helping people learn the skills Prinnels and Madelaine Edgerton to gain confidence to try different from Toothill, the group welcomes projects.” anybody who wants to bring their The group is free and men are latest project, exchange patterns and welcome to join. All you pay for is spare yarn, or receive advice. materials and refreshment.

Jane, who is a qualified teacher and For details call Jane on 01793 used to write patterns for a knitting 878076 or Madelaine Edgerton on magazine said: “Knitting is a passion 01794 642965.

Library manager Gwyneth Dilly with Madelaine Edgerton, left, and Jane Francis with Roz Wilson library assistant

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Afternoon of music in Toothill The U3A Dance Orchestra will be performing at Toothill Community Centre from 2pm to 4pm on Thursday 5 June.

Singles and couples who would like to come along for a social afternoon are welcome to attend. The theme is ‘What did you sing in the War’ to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day landings on 6 June 1944.

Entry is only £2 and includes refreshments.

swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 8

16/05/2014 14:51

Will minister’s clarification prevent the dominoes falling to the West?

With house building at Ridgeway Farm now underway in north Wiltshire, beyond Swindon’s western boundary, housing development could take place in an arc from Cricklade to Purton and Royal Wootton Bassett.

While the planning core mitted to the inspec- villages such as Purton and Cricklade, strategies for both Swindon torate could be used as land such as Pry Farm will, without and Wiltshire are progressing grounds for a refusal in doubt, eventually fall to development through their legal stages, desome contexts. no matter what our politicians say.” velopers see an opportunity to South Swindon MP build more houses before the Robert Buckland is Iron age discovery ink dries on these agreements. also pleased with the at Ridgeway Farm To the west of the town, in clarification. “It is vi- Archaeological excavation on the Wiltshire, land was identified tally important that ap- 700 home Ridgeway Farm developin 2009 under the last Labour plicants and planning ment has revealed the remains of an government’s Regional Spatial inspectors give due Iron Age round house, a burial and Strategy planning targets. These weight to local plans, evidence of a small rural farmstead. were scrapped by the present rather than outdated See the full story and pictures at: Coalition Government, which and top-down num- bit.ly/westironage has required local councils to bers. Applications to revise their planning procedures build outside the limits by preparing new Local Plans. of such plans fly in the 50 houses to be built on However developers, encourface of local opinion West Swindon eco-area aged by government to deliver and do not represent A planning inspector has ruled that more houses, see speculative opresponsible develop- Wain Homes can extend their 200 home Mouldon View development portunities to seek permission ment. to build on land, some of which “I will continue to site off Purton Road and build has been previously identified as work closely with James another 50 on an environmenhaving development potential. on planning issues of tally sensitive area called Bradley Meadow, next to the River Ray. Without new local authorcommon concern” The Site of Nature Conservation ity plans to base decisions upon, the early April when he called on the Kevin Fisher of Shaw Residents’ Asplanning inspectorate has been using government to ensure the planning sociation added: “It’s good news that Interest was specifically ruled out of outdated information when deciding inspectorate uses emerging Local local plans will now have weight, but the developer’s planning application on applications which are disputed Plans in decision making.

Swindon’s borders to the west are at five years ago. As compensation an In response, planning minister very high risk of development unless ecological area has to be built at a between developers and councils.

North Wiltshire MP James Gray Nick Boles said that the government some radical measures are taken. In 12 school in South Wiltshire.

Purton based environmentalist raised the matter in Parliament in had made clear that local plans sub- years another plan will be required.

“Without some form of long term Richard Pagett says the decision legal binding agreement to safeguard is 'bizarre.' Read the full story with the rural buffer between Swindon and pictures at: bit.ly/MVecosite In 2004 Wiltshire Council and Swindon Council were told by a planning inspector to look at accommodating a further 1,000 houses to the ‘West of Swindon.’ By 2009, the South Swindon Regional Spatial Strategy had inflated this target to 3,000 houses.

Above is the plan from a public consultation leaflet showing sites considered for development. 1,000 houses at Ridgeway Farm (8) and Moredon Bridge (9) are underway. Pry Farm (10) was proposed for 2,000 houses. There are rumours that house builders could resurrect plans for this area - possibly with many more houses.

Left, James Gray, Mollie Groom and Robert Buckland at a protest in 2010 against the idea that land (1) between Lydiard Park and the M4 might be built on.

See the difference An individual & independent practice (Est 1976) We will achieve and preserve your best vision

swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 9

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16/05/2014 14:56

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Carers centre makes big drive for support during awareness week Swindon Carers Centre is urging companies, community groups and individuals to be a part of the greatest ever drive to reach out to carers According to the 2011 Census, “One in 8 of us is currently a carer there are some 19,500 unpaid carers in - it could be you or me - and ensuring Swindon who look after an ill, frail or ongoing understanding and support disabled family member or friend. The for people of all ages in their caring very nature of caring means very often role really does make a difference to people don’t at first, or sometimes them.” never, identify themselves as carers.

Without the right help and supThe Carers Week Quest from 9 to port caring can drain the physical 15 June aims to involve residents and and emotional health of carers and employers in supporting carers who also their finances. The Carers Week are currently missing out on services. Quest aims to encourage and help Cath Johnston, chief executive of individuals and organisations to come Swindon Carers Centre said: “It’s together to improve how carers in vitally important to continually high- Swindon are supported and to raise light the work unpaid carers do and money for the centre.

Carers Week is a great opportunity Find out how to help: www.carerfor all of us to get involved. sweek.org/get-involved

Doing the business at Basepoint South Swindon MP Robert Buckland unveiled a commemorative plaque at Basepoint Swindon on 28 April to mark the twentieth year since the first Basepoint Business Centre was established in Hampshire.

Robert Buckland unveiling the commemorative plaque with Basepoint Swindon manager Lyn Chapman. Photo: Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com

Contact the team at Basepoint Swindon Rivermead Drive, SN5 7EX Tel: 01793 608800 Basepoint_Swnd 10

Since then Basepoint has pioneered the concept of managed business, innovation and enterprises centres and now has 30 similar facilities across the South, the Midlands, East Anglia and Wales, providing a home to over 2,000 businesses of all sizes.

Uniquely, the centres are owned by The ACT Foundation which directs profit from Basepoint to further its charitable objectives of ‘enhancing the quality of life for people in need’.

In addition each Basepoint Centre provides financial support to a local charity as part of the objective to help develop sustainable communities. This support is funded by The ACT Foundation from its reserves and not through revenue generated at each centre.

Basepoint Swindon, which marks its tenth year in March 2015, has

donated £30,000 to the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis over the last three years.

Robert said he didn't realise how busy Basepoint Swindon is. "I thought there were about 70 businesses here where in fact there are 117 units, and there is a 95 per cent occupancy rate which is phenomenal.

"Centres like Basepoint demonstrate the town's economy is making strong progress out of recession.

Whilst large corporates get the attention, Britain's economy is built on small and medium sized enterprises which provide work for a huge proportion of the population.

"I congratulate them all and Basepoint for providing flexible, well positioned buildings where businesses can grow." basepoint.co.uk

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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15/05/2014 09:03

Eye opening India visit for Bradon students Twenty seven students from Bradon Forest School, accompanied by four teachers, spent 10 days in Northern India, visiting iconic historical sites and two partner Jawahar Navodaya Vidylaya (JNV) schools which select talented children from poorer backgrounds. Year 11 student Charlotte Butler from Peatmoor, who has been involved in the school link programme since Year 7, describes the trip that has been five years in the planning.

For 5 years, I have been lucky to be part of the link group which connects my school to numerous schools throughout Northern India. Over these years, we have sent pieces of work, including posters, books and videos about British culture and our school.

In return, we received cards, artwork and letters back from students in the Indian schools, which we have shared with the rest of our school.

From this, I was able to see just how different our cultures really are, and how much each student in the link school values the opportunity they Grace Bartlett, Charlotte Butler and Lydia Clayton with JNV students have been given for a good education. the constant support of friends and dis for each of us and a smile on every They are so passionate about their life family I was able to raise all the money student’s face. It was overwhelming ambitions and how much they enjoy and I want to thank everybody who that our visit was so significant for their time at school. It has made me helped any of the Bradon students to them; they were all as excited as we realise how fortunate I am. reach their goal. were. The students were so friendly At the start of Year 10, it was anWe had an amazing time, with visits and welcoming; even when we won a nounced that another visit to India to The Golden Temple in Amritsar, basketball game, they still had smiles was being organised for 2014 but each visiting the Dhal Lama’s home and on their faces. of us had to raise £1,500 to make the even riding on a tuc-tuc (motorised At both schools, students were very journey. Fundraising included pam- rickshaw). The highlight of the trip proud to show us around. What really per Blunsdon evenings, cream teas with bingo was definitely visiting two schools.

Link HPJune AW.qxp_Layout 1 14/05/2014 8 :the 24:pm Page 1 surprised me was their ambitions for and charity curry nights at the BomUpon arrival, we were greeted by the future and how determined each bay Lounge in Peatmoor. Through the whole school with flowers and bin- individual pupil was to succeed. Every

12

day, they were constantly reminded by a small sign above their bed in their dormitory, personalised to what they wanted to be when they were older.

Our visit to the Tibet children’s orphanage was particularly interesting as we learnt more about the drastic situation in Tibet and how many of these children have travelled hundreds of miles with complete strangers to reach a secure place. Their parents had made the heart breaking decision to send their own children off into the unknown so they could have a safer future than under the control of the Chinese government.

Even in this very difficult situation, again, every pupil had a smile on their face, they were all thankful for what they had now. Nowadays fewer children are able to come over the border from Tibet because of strict rules by the Chinese government.

It was a truly amazing experience and I was so lucky to have this opportunity. Thank you to everyone involved and I hope to return to India in the future to discover more.

See more pictures: bit.ly/BFIndia2014

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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16/05/2014 10:19

All set for September fun day tea party in Priory Vale The people of Priory Vale are being asked to set aside Saturday 6 September to come along to a vintage themed party between 12noon and 2pm, in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

Hatherop Castle School Situated near Cirencester in acres of beautiful parkland, Hatherop School is a Nursery and Prep School offering a co-educational education to children aged 2 to 13.

Boarding packages are available.

Every day is an Open Day at Hatherop Castle School so if you are passing come in and see why we consistently achieve fantastic academic results including major scholarships to senior schools.

Open Morning Friday 6th June starts 9.30am

Some of the Priory Vale festival crowd, from left, Chris Priddy, Emma Faramarzi, Kate Harding, Suzi Gatward and Timothy McKeown, Phil Harding, Wayne and Harry Sims

The North Swindon Community Group have decided to organise a small scale event to give more time to organise a full blown community festival in 2015.

This year’s free fun day at Brook Park in Redhouse, opposite the learning campus, will have a hog

roast, bouncy castle, children’s craft activities, brass band and raffle.

It will also be a chance to talk about how to get involved in planning something on a larger scale next year.

Keep up to date on Facebook: North Swindon Community Festival Meeting

nscommunitygroup.co.uk

Wiltshire Air Ambulance new helicopter to carry slogan: 'Funded by you, flying for you'

Please contact the Admissions Registrar on 01285 750206 for further details

Hatherop Castle School Hatherop, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 3NB 01285 750206

www.hatheropcastle.co.uk

The colour scheme for Wiltshire’s new air ambulance was unveiled inApril by the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Charitable Trust’s board of trustees.

Swindon College

The Bell 429 helicopter, being built in Canada, will arrive in October to become operational when the current air partnership with Wiltshire Police ends in December.

The new aircraft will incorporate yellow and the distinctive Wiltshire ‘green’, which is used across the county flag, with the slogan on one side: 'Funded by you, flying for you.'

Chairman of the charity’s board of trustees Richard Youens said: "We wanted to ensure that the colour scheme not only reflected the county of Wiltshire, but is also sufficiently different from the current helicopter in recognition of this new chapter for the county’s air ambulance.”

The Bell 429 is the world’s newest and most advanced light twin-engine helicopter in service, equipped with the latest in-flight technology. The Wiltshire aircraft will be the first of its kind to operate as an air ambulance

in the UK. It has a top speed of 150 knots and a range of 400 miles, making rapid response to any incident within the county achievable within minutes.

It will be adapted to make it capable of carrying one or two pilots, two or three paramedics as well as a patient on a stretcher.

The air ambulance will be available 19 hours a day, 365 days a year and is one of only a few in the UK that can fly at night, with the capability of adhoc landings. Currently, on average, the helicopter is called out to two to three different incidents across the county every day.

By taking on their own helicopter, the trust is having to increase its annual fundraising three fold and needs £2.5million a year to keep the air ambulance flying - £6,850 per day.

Find out how to help the trust raise the money it needs at wiltshireairambulance.co.uk

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swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 13

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15/05/2014 15:31

New team in place to manage Nova Hreod Two highly experienced leaders have taken over Nova Hreod Academy to replace headteacher Julie Tridgell who announced in February that she was departing to take some time out to refresh after six years at the school.

The new leaders, Ben Parnell and and will be based in Swindon for two have been considering taking some that everything is set for the school Darren Barton joined the school on days per week. time out to refresh for a while, I to thrive.”

1 May from Nova’s sister schools in Nova Hreod chair of governors wanted to wait until the time was Mrs Tridgell arrived in September the United Learning Trust group of Pat Porter said: “The governors were right for Nova.

2008 at a time of some turmoil. schools. They come from Glenmoor closely involved in the decision and “I was so pleased that two excep- Although the school had moved to and Winton academies in Bour- we voted unanimously in support of tional leaders are taking the school on a brand new building, Ofsted had nemouth, the top two performing these arrangements. We wish Mrs the next stage of its journey. I have met recently put it in special measures. non-selective schools in the town.

Tridgell the very best for the next stage Mr Parnell and Mr Barton many times However GCSE results had improved They are leading the school over the of her career and would like to put on through the United Learning group and she built on the progress. A year next year. Mr Barton is the interim the record our sincere thanks to her of academies which Nova joined last later Ofsted rated Nova Hreod as principal, based full time at Nova, for leadership of the school over the year. I know the school has a very one of the most improved schools and he is supported by Mr Parnell, past six years.” positive future ahead of it. in country. who is the interim executive principal Julie Tridgell added: “Although I “While it is never easy to say goodIn 2012 she welcomed the Duchess bye, especially as the past six years at of Cornwall who launched the DiaNova have been so rewarding, I know mond Jubilee British Food Fortnight.

English, Mathematics and Science Fully qualified teachers Accelerated GCSE programme 11+ training and preparation Free assessment and first lesson Boost your child’s confidence

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Julie Tridgell with Ben Parnell, left, and Darren Barton at Nova Hreod

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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16/05/2014 10:22

Oakhurst head takes a year out Popular head teacher Dale Burr of Oakhurst Primary School has taken a one year secondment to join HMI Ofsted, covering schools in South West England.

Commenting on his decision to take a year away from headship Dale said: “It’s a great opportunity to see a whole range of schools and bring back some amazing ideas to help Oakhurst become outstanding.”

Deputy head Gill Jones, who has been at Oakhurst as a teacher since it opened in 2009, will assume the role of acting head during Dale’s absence.

Getting down to business at Tadpole Farm School

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Jane Leo, the headteacher of Tadpole Farm Church of England School, has set up an office in North Swindon to meet parents and recruit staff in time to open in Redhouse Community Centre in September.

Jane Leo viewing progress at Redhouse Community Centre

The school will move to its permanent site in the Tadpole Garden development when the new building, access road and footpath routes are completed in early 2015.

The first intake will be 60 reception children in two forms of entry, with a 52 place nursery providing morning and afternoon sessions.

“My dream of starting a new school is coming true,” said Mrs Leo. “In these first weeks I’ve been spending a lot of time talking with parents face to face or via email about the ethos of the school.

“For me a school is what goes

on within the walls, not the walls themselves. We’re taking on a big responsibility and I recognise parents are putting their faith in a brand new venture. They’re our pioneers and our ambassadors, together we’ll be building a community of children, parents and staff to create outstanding learning experiences.

By mid-May 29 children were registered to start. Two reception teachers and a teaching assistant are to be appointed.

There are places in the nursery. See information and Jane Leo’s contact details below.

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

With the introduction of free school meals for all infants from September, we need extra lunch time supervisors to help children with meals and assist with the supervision of children during play.

Come and join our friendly expanding school.

Was your child born between 1st September 2010 and 31st August 2011? Looking for a nursery class place for September 2014?

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It’s not too late to join us at Tadpole Farm CE Primary Academy, North Swindon.

Details and an application form can be found at www.haydonleighschool.co.uk

Your child will experience a nurturing, creative caring place in which to grow and learn.

Our new school community aims to be ‘outstanding from the start’ and with your help we know we can achieve this.

Lunch Time Supervisor Vacancies

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To find out more contact Jane Leo, Principal: jane.leo@tadpole academy.co.uk or 07733 264202

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Or contact the school Haydonleigh Primary School Haydon Court Drive Swindon SN25 1JP Tel 01793 700443 swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 15

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16/05/2014 10:22

Artwork celebrates diversity with help from Dulux

YOGA for KIDS

Oakhurst Primary School has unveiled a bright mural, inspired and designed by its students to celebrate its Diversity Week, thanks to a generous paint donation from the Dulux Let’s Colour Project.

Staff and pupils all had a part in designing the mural on the staircase, showing the outlines of happy, cartwheeling children filled in with bright, positive colours alongside religious symbols, flags, maps, depictions of exotic locations and animals, and children of all cultures playing happily together.

Friday 4:30-5pm Ages 4-7 5:15-6pm Ages 8-12 jj

Community Centre @ Christchurch, Old Town, Swindon

Artist, Tracey Baker-Stewart, with Oakhurst children and the completed artwork

For details contact:

Bindu Massey bindu@sarasyoga.com 07709 577 119

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

Win an iPad in Westlea School circus draw

Tickets are going fast for Happy’s Circus which is coming to Westlea Primary School on the evening of Monday 2 June, with a barbecue and stalls from 4.45pm on the school field.

Artisan Tools & Hire is sponsoring an iPad mini as the prize in the lucky programme draw. Even if you don’t go to the circus, but buy a programme at £3, you will have a chance of winning. See ticket details below.

Read about Happy’s Circus at bit.ly/Westleacircus

Saturday 21st June 10am to 2pm

nday 2 June, ol, Langstone Way. Mo Westlea Primary Scho m 4.45pm fro lls sta BBQ and side 6pm. Gates open for for adults; £10 n, office: £8 for childre Tickets from the school ldren) chi 2 & lts adu (2 et £32 for a family tick

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swindonlink.com • June 2014

Fundraising starts early Two youngsters from West Swindon spent their half term raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Millie Villender, 10, who attends Westlea Primar y School and her close friend Eva Flanagan, 9, who goes to Brook Field School held a cake sale supported by family and friends to raise £165.14.

Last year Eva organised her own cake sale and raised £112 for Make- about helping good causes and I am A-Wish. sure they are making more plans,” said In March the pair raised £52 for mum Kim Villender. “Thankfully breast cancer research by selling they are still too young to be jumping sunflower seeds in pots. out of planes to raise money for char“The girls are really enthusiastic ity, but I’m sure they might one day.”

Children encouraged to drink veg and fruit Pupils from Redoaks Primary and Isambard School in North Swindon welcomed Kris Talikowski from The Core Juice Bar in Old Town, in late April, when he launched a Juicing 4 School programme to help young people discover the health-giving benefits of freshly extracted juices and the impact this can have on learning.

Classes held at:

Esprit Centre, Headlands Grove, Swindon Contact us now: 07980 918192 enquiries@tkfda.co.uk www.tkfda.co.uk *Subject to terms and conditions available on request

At Lydiard Millicent Pre-school we specialise in providing care and education for 2 ½ to 5 year olds in a secure and stimulating environment.

We currently have some places available for an immediate start and are taking registrations for September 2014.

Please contact us on 01793 772 981 to discuss your requirements or to arrange a visit. www.lydiardmillicentpreschool.org Ofsted Registration: 199450

Kris and Redoaks pupil Beth pictured by Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com

The workshop for Year 6 and Year 7 pupils was followed by an after-school session for parents and teachers.

On a mission to radicalise the way that young people think about their own health and what they put in their bodies, Kris Talikowski and his team are taking a lively and entertaining roadshow round Swindon using the slogan: ‘if you can’t eat them, then there's a tasty way to drink them.’

Kris said: “From my own experiences, I know the challenges of eating foods that are healthy, but perhaps you’re not sure about the taste or texture. But it’s crucial that your body is fed the right things as this has an impact on concentration levels and learning.

"I didn’t realise that what I ate made that much of a difference. I had tonsilitis at school then bad glandular fever

at university as a result of poor diet.”

To general agreement from the 120 youngsters in the hall, Kris talked about the impact of excessive sugar in the diet and the energy highs and lows that result.

He made the point that juices made only from fruit are too high in sugar and it was important to include vegetables in the mix for a balanced diet.

Isambard Year 6 to 7 transitions teacher Kara Stevens said: “The workshop was really helpful to encourage young people to think about the effect of too much sugar and the need to come to school after eating a healthy breakfast.

“It was also good that Kris talked plainly about the alternatives to fizzy drinks which are more accessible in secondary school.”

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Tel: 07825 543529 or 01793 524112 Visit our website for more details: www.swindonacademyofdance.co.uk swindonlink.com • June 2014

1-18 June 14.indd 17

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16/05/2014 10:24

Memories are made of simple things

Swindon’s exciting new support for children, aged 10 to 12, in need of friendship has got off to a flying start with youngsters already beginning to make happy memories, writes Lyn Hartman.

“The children really get what Memory Makers is all about,” said Clare Armagan, programme coordinator.

“They know what they need - and the simple things are bringing the most joy. Running down a hill, counting the trees, feeding the ducks, kicking a football around, and chatting to someone with time to listen.”

The volunteers seem to be having as much fun as the children. One said: “We had great fun playing football and didn’t stop talking the whole time. At the end of the evening she said thank you and said she’d had the most fun she’s had in a long time. I can’t wait for next week.”

“After just a couple of meetings it’s turned out to be very rewarding watching Stacey enjoying herself so much.”

Memory Makers is building on the huge success of SMASH which offers teenagers the opportunity to meet a mentor each week. The volunteers befriend children who are missing out on simple opportunities for having fun and creating good memories because of a combination of circumstances including bereavement, illness, domestic violence or divorce.

Clare Armagan commented: “We believe that happy memories are crucial in psychological and emotional growth. Remembering good times

Michelle with Lucy creating positive memories together

Graphic designer Lucy, one of the first volunteers said she was having as much fun as Michelle who she has been matched with. “We get on so well together. We went to Coate Water on our first outing and had a great time.

We walked around the lake and sat on the grass for a picnic, then had a ride on the miniature railway.

“On our next outing we had a look round the shops at the Designer Outlet and ate donuts.

“Really I’m like a big kid myself; being a Memory Maker has a serious aim, but it’s also a great excuse to have fun together.”

Mary, another of the first group to be matched said: “I volunteered because I can. I can free up a few hours a week and if spending that time with a child will make such a big difference to their future then it just makes sense.

We’ve all seen families who are struggling and Memory Makers is giving me the opportunity to help out a child in a safe way.”

“I wanted to be a Memory Maker because I felt I could help children who are not as fortunate as others to enjoy simple activities,” said Sue. 18

can help cushion children from the challenges they face every day, and, crucially, may give them hope for the future.”

Each Memory Maker volunteer is linked with a child in the last year of primary school. They will need to commit to meeting once a week or fortnight to enjoy doing simple things like going to the park, visiting a library or trying out a new sport or hobby.

Want to know more about becoming a Memory Maker?

Get in touch now if you are interested; you’ll have fun and make a real difference to a child’s future.

Excellent training and friendly, efficient volunteer support is on offer in exchange for a few hours of your time a week.

The next training takes place on Wednesday 11 June, 6pm to 9.30pm; Saturday 21 June 10am to 4pm and Wednesday 25 June, 6pm to 9.30pm.

Call 01793 729748 to have an informal chat with Clare or mail: memory.makers@smashyouthproject.co.uk Or click on the Memory Makers button at: smashyouthproject.co.uk

swindonlink.com • June 2014

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Blunsdon singer hits the local headlines in Turkey Ten year old singer Caitlin Eastham from Blunsdon got the chance to perform to an international audience whilst on holiday in Dalyan, Turkey during the Easter break – and caught the attention of the local newspaper.

Proud mum Juliet Platt, who writes for Swindon Link, said:“Caitlin is a born performer and loves to sing for people whenever she gets the chance. When we visited the M&M Rock Bar in Dalyan the owner invited Caity to step up to the mic. The guitarist was brilliant and they became quite a team.”

Word got round the Turkish resort of a young English girl with an amazing voice which attracted the attention of a local journalist. Within a few days the Mugla edition of Kent 48 featured the headline: ‘10 year old

Caitlin Mesmerised M&M Rock Bar With Her Voice’ Commenting in the article Rock Bar proprietor Mufit Kanmaz said: “When Caitlin started singing the audience could not believe their ears.

We and our customers really liked her. I hope she realises her dreams to make records and perform in arenas and stadiums all round the world.

I’m sure she will become a famous singer, because she has a great voice.

I hope she will visit us again when she becomes famous.”

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Father’s Day

at the Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel This Father’s Day, Sunday 15th June, let Dad relax and treat him to a three course carvery lunch at the Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel.

Unlimited soup and salad bar followed by a carvery main course and a selection of mouth-watering desserts.

Thanks to Julie Holland from Old Town for packing the April Link when she visited Cuba over Easter, and finding a dramatic backdrop. Now the bursar at King William Street Primary School, Julie worked for ten years at Freshbrook Primary School before it became Millbrook. She is also secretary to the Trustees of the Friends of Lydiard Park

Only £12.95 per person Bookings advisable, for more information or to book call 01285 864000 www.cotswoldwaterparkhotel.co.uk

PILLARS H OT E L S

swindonlink.com • May 2014

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Library delivery service aims to reach more people

Swing on the bells

Two new Home Library volunteers have joined the team working out of West Swindon Library, but organiser Cathy Martyn is hoping to attract more helpers to expand the service to more users across the town.

Volunteers work from 11 of the town’s libraries selecting books which are delivered to people who are housebound, unable to get to their local library for mobility reasons or carry the books - or have no-one to go to the library for them.

Most customers are elderly but visits are made to younger people if they are unable to get out for a time.

The volunteers are linked to specific people so that they can create a RVS organiser Cathy Martyn, centre, with long serving volunteers Norah Browntrusted relationship. Over time they ing and Corrie Butler, left, and starters Nicola Novak and Claire Smith understand the needs of the customer don’t rush the visit. We get to know Cathy. “Our customers rely on the so that the right kinds of books can our customers and they look forward social contact a lot, so the rounds go be chosen. Apart from books, audio to seeing us; we have good chats and out without fail.

“We provide training after the CDs and DVDs can be delivered, and tease each other. It’s uplifting for them there are no fines if books are not read and us, but sadly for some, we’re the required checks so that volunteers within the three week visiting cycle. only people they see during the week.” know how the service works.”

The service is run for Swindon LiTo find out more contact Cathy: Corrie Butler from Grange Park, who has been with Home Library for braries by the Royal Voluntary Service home.library@swindon.gov.uk or several years, said: “We go in pairs and and the commitment is quite big said call 01793 465495.

This year is the 50th anniversary since the bells in the tower at St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park were fully rung for the first time in 40 years.

And the ringing team are inviting readers to visit them and have a swing.

Three of the 5 bells date from 1635 but by the 1920s they could not be rung safely for fear of them tumbling down.

Funds were raised for a new support frame which enabled the bells to be rehung and in 1964, with a new sixth bell, St Mary’s could be heard once again.

The bell tower will be open every Sunday in June from 2pm to 4pm, when visitors can climb the narrow spiral stairs, see where the ringers do their thing and have a pull.

The team would also like to attract new ringing recruits.

There will be cream teas in the stable room with entertainment from a ukelele group.

Thirteen hour charity music marathon

with 20 bands performing in aid of Ruby’s Fat Cow Fund supporting the Brain Tumour Charity, CLIC Sargent and Ronald McDonald House & Prospect Hospice Tickets on the door: minimum donation of £5 per adult, £2 for children Saturday 12 July, 11am to midnight, Swindon Town FC Legends Lounge musicmarathon.co.uk

Concert in aid of The Willows counselling service From a touch of opera to popular love songs past and present Saturday 21 June, 7.30pm. Tickets £6 Featuring Rachel Gilliam and Heather Main (Sopranos), Richard Worthing Davies (Bass Baritone), Frances Couldridge (Piano) Grand raffle includes a painting by local artist Marilyn Trew The Bath Road Methodist Church, Bath Road, Old Town, SN1 4BA

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Hope for lottery grant to coincide with Archbishop’s visit

St Mary’s Church in Lydiard Park has just submitted a detailed application to the Heritage Lottery Fund to support a £1 million project to complete the conservation work started in 2011 - and they hope for a decision by the time Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, makes a visit in September.

The grant will enable the historic “The church is extremely grateful to interior of the church to be preserved the many members of the public both for the future generations, including locally and from around the world the conservation and cleaning of the who continue to give to the project. extensive medieval wall paintings and All donations whatever their size will glass, and the repair and conservation contribute toward the conservation of of the painted ceilings, monuments this beautiful building. and pews. Access will be improved to “St Mary’s is at the heart of Swinprovide a wheelchair friendly entrance don’s most significant visitor destinato the church from Lydiard House. tion; it’s a much loved and valued Importantly the conservation will local facility. Since the HLF Lydiard preserve and interpret the building Park conservation project from 2003 and its treasures for the widest range of to 2007, Lydiard has become a great audiences, in association with Lydiard source of local pride and a venue for House and schools, as well as a lively civic and public occasions. events programme.

“With house, gardens and historic Preparation for this project began June 2011, at the launch of the St Mary’s restoration appeal, from left, Anthony landscape restored, the conservation in 2011 when the church received St John, 14th great grandson of Margaret Beauchamp, the first of the St John of St Mary’s is key to secure the intega grant from English Heritage to family who died in 1481, Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mr John Bush, the mayor- rity of the entire Lydiard site for future carry out essential repairs to make the ess Sandra Barnett, Robert Buckland MP, appeal coordinator Hilary Gardner, the generations to continue to enjoy.” mayor of Swindon the late Rex Barnett, St Mary’s minister Rev Clive Deverell building wind and watertight. Urgent See more pictures: bit.ly/stmarys-hlf stabilising works to the medieval wall gregation and the wider public have of £100,000 from a member of the paintings on the East chancel wall also been generous in bridging the Friends of Lydiard Park, and £40,000 were also completed. This attracted gap to enable the first stage of the from church contributions.

Flower Festival many visitors fascinated to watch the conservation project to be successThe outstanding £200,000 will St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze conservator at work. fully completed early last year. need to be raised. Hilary Gardner (The church in the park) As well as the financial support of This final phase will cost just over St Mary’s project co-ordinator said: Friday 27 - Monday 30 June English Heritage the church received £1 million. The Heritage Lottery “We’re confident that with the Heri10am to 5pm a number of other grants from a range Fund application is for £700,00 which tage Lottery Fund on board further of charitable organisations. The con- will be supported by a generous legacy charitable donations can be realised. Admission by donation: £2/adult

Thomas, OR members of his team at Special Auction Services, will value portable items between 10am and 3.30pm on: Monday 9th June Valuations are by appointment only.

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

Swindon SN1 2NG specialauctionservices.com to arrange an appointment

swindonlink.com • June 2014 21

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n this proof should only be taken as inted.

HALL FOR HIRE Tuesday: 6pm - 7.45pm & Thursday: 8.15pm - 9.15pm Peatmoor School hall is currently used for aerobics, pilates, judo and dance classes.

We would particularly like to offer a different style of exercise class or slimming club.

A preferential rate for hire is available for 12 weeks to support a new group.

To discuss your requirements, call Caroline Bowles on 01793 887473 (9am to 3.30pm during school term time)

Peatmoor Community Facilities Peatmoor Community Primary School, Pepperbox Hill Peatmoor, Swindon SN5 5DP

Herbert’s headstone is on the way to Swindon from France More than 95 years after his death, Swindon soldier Herbert Marfleet will soon have a Commonwealth War Graves headstone placed at his last resting place in Radnor Street Cemetery, writes Frances Bevan of the Swindon in the Great War Committee.

As Herbert’s death was The campaign to have Herbert’s Benjamin Marfleet, who a direct result of his army grave recognised by the Common- was a sergeant in the 2nd service, Mark, author of wealth War Graves Commission Dragoon Guards.

Tell Them of Us, a book began in 2011, and military historian Following Benjamin’s charting the service of Mark Sutton has received news that discharge from the army Swindon men in the war, the headstone will soon be installed. in 1897 the family rewas convinced that he Mark said: “Bert’s details were add- turned to Swindon and a was entitled to recognied to the CWGC website some time home at 2 Morrison Street, tion by the Commonago, but it has taken over three years Rodbourne. Benjamin to get the headstone put in place.” was a Railway Shop clerk in the GWR wealth War Graves Commission and It is one of a batch currently being Works and on leaving school Herbert an official headstone.

It is thanks to Mark’s research that engraved in France, and Mark is hop- followed his father into the railway facing it will arrive in time for events tory as an apprentice coach finisher. Herbert’s sacrifice has been officially commemorating the centenary of In 1915 he joined the Royal Army recognised. Plans are in motion for the outbreak of the First World War, Service Corps, serving first in Egypt a rededication ceremony at Radnor planned for August. and then in Salonika. He returned Street Cemetery, when the new Herbert Frederick Marfleet was briefly to Swindon in 1918 to marry headstone is installed, with Herbert’s born in the Punjab, India, the son of Elsie Morse in a double wedding with god-daughter, 98 year old Joyce Murher sister Agnes and Hooper Gates, a gatroyd, below, as guest of honour.

Canadian soldier serving in the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.

Immediately after the wedding Herbert rejoined his regiment in Salonika, and it was there that he contracted malaria.

He was discharged from the army and came home to Swindon in the spring of 1919, where he died of War hero Herbert Marfleet and Elsie malaria, just a few weeks later. on their wedding day in 1918

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Cemetery guided walks restart

The fascinating stories behind some of the graves at Radnor Street Cemetery will be told during guided walks led by historians Mark Sutton and Frances Bevan this summer.

They resumed on 22 May and ton Castle on Good Friday, 1919, further events are planned for June turned to tragedy when they were and August. killed by an explosion while invesThe cemetery chapel will be open tigating former training trenches at on Saturday 21 June, when there Chiseldon Camp. will be an opportunity to view the There will be guided walks at 11am Sanford Street School memorial and and 2pm on 17 August when local a photographic display of some of the historical societies will also mount men mentioned on it. displays in the cemetery chapel.

There will also be guided walks at For details, and to book places on 11am and 2pm, telling the stories of the walks, which are free of charge, some 104 military personnel buried call Mark Sutton on 07870 701049 at Radnor Street. or Frances Bevan on 01793 875416.

The Commonwealth War Graves Find out about Swindon in the Great Commission has recently put up new War events over coming months at signage there as part of a national greenrook.co.uk project to inform people of war graves Facebook: Radnor Street Cemetery in UK cemeteries.

Tours will include the tale of three teenage boys whose day trip to Lidding-

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Commonweal School pupils at the rededication of the Sanford Street School memorial at Radnor Street Chapel last November

22 swindonlink.com • June 2014 Link Magazine Ad.indd 1 19 - 48 June 14.indd 22

01/03/2013 11:18:06 15/05/2014 09:53

Great war drama at the Wyvern

Peter Duncan, Jonny Clarke and George Banks head the cast of Rachel Wagstaff’s stage play, Birdsong, adapted from the novel by Sebastian Faulks, which arrives at the Wyvern Theatre in early July.

In pre-First World War France, ported this year.

Stephen, a young Englishman, emBirdsong will run at the Wyvern barks on a passionate and dangerous from Tuesday 1 to Saturday 5 July. affair with the beautiful Isabelle that Book tickets at wyverntheatre.org.uk turns their worlds upside down. or call 01793 524 481.

When war breaks out, Stephen must lead his men into sub-terranean battle in deep tunnels under the Somme salient.

Faced with the horror, he clings to the memory of Isabelle and the idyll of his former life.

The critically acclaimed 2013 tour was seen by more than 75,000 people, and raised over £50,000 for Help for Heroes. The charity is again being supPeter Duncan, Jonny Clarke and George Banks at the Swindon cenotaph.

Photo: Richard Wintle Calyxpix.com

swindonlink.com • June 2014 23

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Swindon Wide What’s On

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Children & Family

Drama

Monday 2nd to Wednesday 4th, 7.30pm & Wed 4th, 1pm Carrie’s War, by Nina Bawden. When WWII air raids threaten their safety, Carrie and her brother are evacuated to a small village in the Welsh countryside. £17; conc £14. Wyvern Friday 6th, 6pm - 9pm Family Roller Disco. £5 (+BF); skates & safety equipment hire £2. MECA Every weekend in June from Sat 7th Bug Hunting Weekends. Worms, woodlice, spiders and all things creepy can be found in the bugtastic habitats. Normal admission prices.

Roves Farm. See the advert on page 8 Saturdays 14th and 28th, 10am to 4pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges. STEAM Sunday 15th Father’s Day Frolics, including welly wanging competition. Dads free with a paying child. Roves Farm. See the advert on page 8 Saturday 22nd, 1pm Bananas in Pyjamas. It’s partytime in Cuddlestown Park, but the guest of honour has gone missing. Can you help the Banana detectives solve the case? £13.50; family £46. Wyvern Sunday 29th, 11am to 1.30pm and 2pm to 4pm Birds of Prey. Enjoy flying displays and the opportunity to get up close to barn owls, eagle owls, turkey vultures and peregrine falcons. Also craft workshops. Pre-book tickets on 01793 465277, £8; students & children £6; family £25 + small charge for workshops.

Walled Garden, Lydiard Park. See left.

Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st 7.30pm Nightmare by Norman Robbins presented by The Western Players.

A nightmare situation arises when the carer of an elderly writer leaves her in the hands of a recommended nurse. £8, for tickets call 07575 711522.

Arts Centre Friday 27th & Saturday 28th, 7.30pm B l a c k a d d e r.

Two episodes, one in the Elizabethan period and the other during the First World War. £10. Arts Centre

Venues

BIRDS OF PREY Sunday 29 June 2014 Lydiard Park 11am – 1pm or 2pm – 4pm Enjoy flying displays in the Walled Garden and get up close with magnificent birds of prey.

Adult £8, Student and Child £6, Family (2 Adults + 1 Child) £19 and Family (2 Adults + 2 Children) £25 Booking fee applies

Buy online at www.swindontickets.co.uk Lydiard Park, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, SN5 3PA www.lydiardpark.org.uk

Arts Centre Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 524481 Central Library Regent Circus SN1 1QG. Tel: 463782 Lydiard House Lydiard Park SN5 3PA. Tel: 466664 MECA Regent Circus SN1 1PR. Tel: 251111 Ridgeway Theatre Ridgeway School Inverary Road, Wroughton SN4 9DJ. Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive SN2 2EY. Tel: 466637 Swindon Dance Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. SN1 1QF. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road, SN1 4BA. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square, SN1 1QN. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

Talk Thursday 12th, 7.15pm 1914 War. Mark Sutton discusses the outbreak of war, how Swindon was affected and reacted to events. £2.50 (£1.50 library members). 2nd Floor Reading Room, Central Library Thursday 19th, 7.15pm James Aitcheson, author of the Tancred series of medieval historical novels set amidst the chaos of the Norman Conquest, talks about his latest book and writing historical fiction. £2.50 (£1.50 library members). 2nd Floor Reading Room, Central Library Friday 20th, 7.30pm The Rediscovery of Ralph Bates. A talk

by Mike Yates on the unjustly forgotten Swindon born novelist who once enjoyed an international reputation. £4.50. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Wednesday 25th, 7.15pm The History of Ashdown House - a talk by Nicola Cornick. £2.50 (£1.50 library members). 2nd Floor Reading Room, Central Library

Exhibitions Guild of Wiltshire Artists Summer Exhibition

Sunday 25 May to Sunday 1 June Framed paintings for sale Postcard size sketches and artworks donated by guild members to raise funds for additional exhibition screens. Cost £5 each Open: Mon to Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun 25 May: 1pm - 4pm; Sun 1 June: 11am-2 pm St. Peter’s Church, High Street, Marlborough SN8 1HQ. Free entry

Cricklade Art Group Summer Exhibition

Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June 10am to 4pm Demonstrations on art techniques and quiz sheets for children Cricklade Town Hall www.crickladeart.co.uk

24 swindonlink.com • May 2014

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Dance

Wednesday 4th, Thursday 5th, Friday 6th, 7.30pm; Saturday 7th, 2.30pm & 7.30pm The Gondoliers presented by Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society. This new production features some of the town’s top vocal talent. £10/£12.

Arts Centre Friday 6th, 7.30pm Bon Jovi Experience with a show including all the hits of the greatest stadium rock band. ÂŁ18.50. Wyvern Saturday 7th, 7.30pm Beyond the Barricade. A cast of past principal performers from West End productions perform hit songs from the musicals. ÂŁ20.50. Wyvern Tuesday 10th, 2pm Sinatra - The Movie Years with Robert Habermann and his trio. ÂŁ10. Arts Centre Thursday 12th, 7.30pm

Saturday 14th, 7.30pm A Tribute to the Greatest. Students of Teresa’s School of Dance perform ballet, tap, musical theatre and break dance. £9.50. Wyvern Monday 16th, 7pm Jukebox. The pupils of Lydiard Park Academy and West Swindon Primary Schools perform a variety of dances to jukebox tunes. £7. Wyvern Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st, 7.30pm & Sat 21st, 2.30pm Hans Anderson, the musical, presented by Estelle School of Dance in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

A colourful show for all ages, full of memorable songs. ÂŁ10 - ÂŁ12. Wyvern Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Italia Conti. Join Italia Conti Associates Newbury for an action packed show full of variety. ÂŁ15. Wyvern Monday 30th, 7.30pm Flash Mob - where dance worlds collide. Headlined by Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer from Strictly Come Dancing. ÂŁ26; under 16s ÂŁ16.50. Wyvern

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Musical Joe McElderry - Set your Soul Alive tour. The 2009 X Factor winner and his band perform songs from rock and pop to classical. ÂŁ20.50; family ÂŁ64. Wyvern Thursday 12th, 8pm The Paperboys. An eclectic folk-rock quintet from Canada. Mexican San Jarocho mixed with Irish jigs and reels as well as a dose of country and bluegrass. ÂŁ12. Arts Centre Saturday 14th, 8pm Behind The Blinds. A new show of lyrically witty and sophisticated songs that reveal what goes on behind the blinds on an ordinary street. Age 15+. ÂŁ10. Arts Centre Saturday 21st, 7.30pm Songs from Many Lands: Swindon Choral Society Summer Concert.

Music by Dvorak, Britten, Le Flemming and Rutter; conductor: Robin Nelson; accompanist: Paul Turner; mezzo soprano soloist: Kate Symonds-Joy. ÂŁ10, tickets from www.swindonchoral. org.uk or Swindon Information Centre.

Christ Church, Old Town Saturday 21st, 7.30pm Celebrate Midsummer’s Eve with beautiful music, from a touch of opera to popular love songs past and present. Raffle and refreshments. £6, tickets from Friends of Willows or on the door. The Bath Road Methodist Church Wednesday 25th, 8pm Elio Pace performs The Billy Joel Songbook including all the favourites such as Uptown Girl and Goodnight Saigon. £18. Arts Centre

Thursday 29th to Sat 31st, 7.30pm Titanic The Musical presented by Theatre Ink. ÂŁ12, to book call 0333 6669966. Ridgeway Theatre, Ridgeway School

Comedy Thursday 26th, 7pm Chuckles Comedy Club. ÂŁ8; show & dinner ÂŁ12 plus booking fee (adv only). MECA

Fundraising

Top Drawer Open Day

Car boot sale, table top sale and crafts fair Saturday 7 June, 10am to 3pm Table ÂŁ5 in advance - call 536613 All proceeds to Top Drawer Furniture Project Sussex Square, Walcot SN3 3BJ

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Off full priced products for Swindon loyalty card holders.

Summer Fete

In aid of Friends of Lethbridge Primary School Saturday 21 June, 11am to 2.30pm 25 stalls with an extensive range of arts, crafts, foods and refreshments Also 10K fun run - see page 31 Lethbridge Primary School

Robin Hood Summer Fun Day In aid of Robourne Cheney Primary School PTA Saturday 21 June ,12noon to 3pm Games, cakes, plants, nail bar, bouncy castle & slide, face painting & tattoos, assault course challenge, medieval longbow display, archery Adults ÂŁ1, kids free Rodbourne Cheney Primary School Field, Church Walk North

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Summer Big

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Friday 25th July with Nathan Jones & his 20 piece Big Band £25,00 per person

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Author to write about unreported secrets of World War II After completing the biography of his South African father, Moonbeams and Shadows, Swindon based author Lindsay Tonkin who lives in Gorse Hill has begun to lift the lid on a forgotten aspect of war-time history, reminding us of the perilous threat of Nazi sympathisers during the second World War. Surrounded as it was by time was that it was an Eng- a crime reporter and human rights German colonies, and still lishman’s war and there campaigner. He died suddenly on 11 hurting from the brutaliwas a lot of resistance to September 1950 aged 37, just minutes ties of the Anglo-Boer War, fighting alongside the Brit- before his former chief commander South Africa was vulnerish. Everybody General Smuts also passed able to Nazi infiltration. knew some spy away.

When a vote amongst somewhere so Moonbeams and Shadpoliticians returned a narit was a very ows tells the fascinating row lead in favour of war dangerous story of Lindsay’s father, against Germany, Field Marshall time.”

EW Tonkin, including some Smuts formed a new government and At the end of the war little known war-time selected a special force of 12 police Lindsay’s father, who had insights about the role of detectives, including Lindsay’s father sustained injuries through the Special Force 12.

E W Tonkin, to weed out saboteurs his work, retired from See more at: moonand spies. the police and became EW Tonkin beamsandshadows.co.uk Taking up the story Lindsay, above, said: “My father and his colleagues were responsible for tracking, hunting and arresting German spies, assassins For National Libraries day and saboteurs. This specialised team Swindon Libraries offered all was so successful that they saved those joining during February South Africa from the brink of Nazi- the chance to win a £25 Barnes German overthrow. Without them the voucher. outcome of the war would have been The entry by Chris Loveridge very different.” from North Swindon was Commenting on why this story is drawn as the winner. He is little known Lindsay added:“What the pictured with Swindon Librar12 did is a big secret because there is ies Information Officer Dawn very little interest in British history in Osborne by Richard Wintle of South Africa. The perception at the Calyxpix.com

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Swindon group commits to raise £12,000 for new bear sanctuary in China Volunteers in Swindon are playing their part in Animals Asia’s bid to convert a bear bile farm in Nanning, China, into a sanctuary, following an unprecedented request by the farm owner to rescue and care for its 130 bears.

The charity has Swindon support transferred 28 bears in group coordinator a 1,200km convoy to Sarah Chilvers said: its existing sanctuary “We’ve set ourselves in Chengdu for urgent a huge task but we’ve veterinary attention. raised £12,000 over Staff have taken five years in the past over the care of the to sponsor Zebedee. remaining bears and We’re just going to have started a two year have to raise the same project to convert it amount faster because into a sanctuary. the plight of the bears The Swindon in Nanning is awful.” branch of the charCharity CEO and ity is aiming to raise founder Jill Robinson £12,000 towards the MBE is flying in from work.

China to join the Zebedee, the rescued moonBear bile is used in bear named after the Magic Animals Asia team traditional Chinese Roundabout, sponsored by which has entered the medicine, with over the Swindon branch Rotary Club dragon 10,000 bears believed to be in farms boat races at Coate Water on 29 June. in China and Vietnam suffering hor“Come along and support us and rific conditions from being ‘milked’ meet Jill, she is an amazing inspiradaily in tiny cages. Since bringing this tion,” said Sarah. to the attention of animal lovers in Find out more at: animalsasiathe West, Animals Asia has enjoyed swindon.co.uk remarkable success. dragonboatswindon.org.uk

Take on a challenge for Guide Dogs Eat pies The Crown Inn, Stratton, Swindon is holding a charity Great British Classics Night‚ (pie ‘n’ mash, sausage ‘n’ mash, fish ‘n’ chips, liver ‘n’ onions) on Wednesday 25 June in aid of Swindon Guide Dogs 4Joy Appeal.

The evening starts at 7pm with last orders at 9.30pm and costs £7.95 per dish, £5 of which will go to the charity.

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

Go extreme Why not try the Coniston Extreme Adventure which takes place on 13 and 14 September?

It starts off with a 10km hike up the Old Man of Coniston, followed by a 12km mountain bike ride through Grizedale Forest, finishing with a 3km kayak on Coniston Water.

It would be great as a team building event and you can raise funds for Guide Dogs too.

For more information contact the Guide Dogs events team: mail events@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0845 6006787

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The Swindon & District Branch of Parkinson’s UK holds a drop-in information day for people with the condition and their carers, as well as health and social care professionals and care home staff, on Wednesday 11 June, 10am to 2pm, at Swindon Town Football Ground.

There will be an opportunity to meet the Parkinson’s specialist nurse, the local information and support worker and representatives from other agencies and carers’ organisations.

For details please contact Rekha Tanna Hirani: rtannahirani@parkinsons. org.uk or call on 0844 225 9821.

Supporting people with osteoporosis A Swindon group for people with the condition where bones become more porous and brittle and more likely to break meets monthly at the Health Hydro.

Osteoporosis can affect anyone of It meets on the second Friday of the any age, but is more common in older month, 1.30pm, at the Health Hydro, people: 1 in 2 women and 1 in 5 men Milton Road. over the age of 50 are likely to suffer Speakers talk about a variety of bone fractures as a result of osteopo- topics and refreshments are available. rosis. The good news, however, is that The next meeting takes place on 13 it can be treated with a combination June when Loreley Rice will give a of lifestyle changes and appropriate demonstration of Egyptian Belly medication.

Dancing The Swindon support group aims For details mail: swindonosteopoto improve the quality of life of rosis@googlemail.com or call: 07771 people with the condition by rais- 608018. ing awareness and understanding. swindonosteoporosis.com

Swindon couple trek Hadrian’s Wall for ovarian cancer Ali and Lisa Williams from Ashbrake in North Swindon will be trekking Hadrian’s Wall in July in aid of ovarian cancer research.

Their fundraising target is £2000, and they have already achieved just over 80 per cent of this through individual donations and a wellsupported charity evening at Lydiard Park in April.

Explaining why the charity is so important to them Ali said: “Lisa’s Mum’s best friend Tracey Toop has terminal ovarian cancer so this walk is dedicated to her. It’s a disease that doesn’t have the same amount of funding in comparison to other can- ing overnight after 15 miles. Their cers that affect women. It is described training schedule currently includes as the silent killer because often by the walks with their 9 month old puppy time the symptoms are diagnosed it up White Horse Hill, around Barbary has already reached secondary stage Castle, and a 13 mile round trip from their home to Lydiard Park. in other organs.”

Support their cause: justgiving.

Ali and Lisa will walk the 25 miles across country over two days, camp- com/Ali-LisaWilliams

Conflict at Trauma Group’s conference

The centenary of the outbreak of World War I and the D-Day landings of 1944 will be themes of Swindon Trauma Group’s Annual Conference.

The event takes place on Friday 6 June, the 70th anniversary of D-Day, from 9.15am to 5.30pm, in the Uffington Suite at Swindon Marriott Hotel.

The programme looks beyond the mud and filth of the Great War and focuses on what was then called shellshock and the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder today.

The cost for the day is £50, and there is an optional set three-course evening meal at £25 per person. To book a place, contact: jurobfenton@ mail.com. Proceeds after expenses will go to STG and a donation to the local branch of Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide.

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Saving Shaw Forest - March to July 2004 The May Link featured the tenth anniversary of a visit by top environmentalist Jonathon Porrit to Swindon Festival of Literature, who in 2004 took time to support a campaign to prevent Shaw Forest Park being built on.

On 15 May 2014 he said he remembered lending his influence to save the open space close to the town centre after senior Swindon councillors suggested Swindon Town Football Club consider the West Swindon site to build a leisure village and retail park centered on a 23,000 capacity stadium.

Residents from across the town reacted with fury when the news broke on 19 March 2004 and quickly organised a campaign to fight the idea of disturbing an unregulated mid-20th Century landfill site, with the chance of finding asbestos from the railway works.

People were incensed that the council’s promises about the green area would be broken, especially having attended several community tree planting days since 1993.

Hundreds of people protested on 1 May 2004, holding up the traffic on Mead Way before marching around the muddy forest site - pictured right. Another march to a rally at the Civic Offices took place in early June.

After immense pressure on councillors to protect the park - with cross party support - the full council agreed Shaw Forest should remain an open space for 99 years. Since then thousands more trees have been planted and the park has become a regular attraction for thousands of people.

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Faced by the need to cut another with alternative proposals for a site if £54 million from its budget over the they no longer consider them viable. next three years, the council is aiming If the council agree, the site could be to shed responsibility for managing redeveloped on a 999 year lease with and subsidising the cost of main- the proceeds going towards new leitaining and running leisure and golf sure facilities elsewhere in the town. centres, whilst retaining ownership Find out more about the issue at: bit. of the land. ly/sbcleisureassets The facilities involved are the golf Is this good courses at Broome Manor, Highfor Swindon? worth and Moredon and six leisure centres: Croft, Dorcan, Haydon Jane Milner-Barry investigates if the Centre, Link Centre, Delta Tennis council’s leisure transfer programme is likely to be effective and if it’s in Centre and the Health Hydro.

The new operators will only have the best interests of the people of to keep the facilities open for three Swindon. Read her view at: bit.ly/ years before returning to the council sbcleisureassettransfers

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Invitation to 25th Ridgeway charity walk The Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown is hoping for a record turnout when it mounts this year’s Walkley Midnight Walk on a 20 mile section of the Ridgeway between Avebury and Bishopstone on Saturday 14 June.

Individual and group entrants are stone Village Hall, SN6 8PW, where able to raise money for a charity of there will be free parking and a free their choice. The walk has been go- coach to take participants to the start ing since 1988 and has raised over at Avebury. £200,000 for local, national and Find out more and download an international charities. entry form at: rotaryclubofswindonThe walk begins at 9pm at Bishop- thamesdown.org.uk

Are you up for the ultimate team event?

The annual fundraising MS challenge takes place in the Brecon Beacons on Saturday 28 June where teams of 10 to 12 people carry a wheelchair passenger with MS around a demanding exhilarating course set out by the Navy.

The porters face tough terrain in- as it’s not raining heavily. cluding steep hills, walls and obstacles, To take part in the challenge mail: and the best bogs in the Brecons to fundraising@msswindon.org.uk or navigate. The wheelchair is attached call 01793 481700 to a framework and the passenger gets a white knuckle journey, lifted, passed, and manoeuvred over the course. Apparently there are great views, so long A team from Swindon which took part in a past Brecon challenge

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Roller derby girls ready to Race for Life Ten members of Wiltshire Roller Derby will be taking part in the Race for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK on 31 May, running in their pads and with their captain Miss Shell Shock carrying her skates around Lydiard Park.

Commenting on the team’s involve- years ago. It’s a physically demanding ment, skater Nicola Botley aka Ginger sport played in bouts on a flat track, Fear said: “We participated last year with the main objective of getting the but we’re a much bigger team now, team’s ‘jammer’ through the ‘blockers’ with numbers up to about 25. A few of to earn as many points as possible. us have had family members affected Wiltshire Roller Derby train at by cancer so we wanted to do our bit. Isambard and Nova Hreod schools “We’d rather skate than run but the and play their home bouts at the terrain at Lydiard Park isn’t suitable.” Oasis. The next home fixture is on Predominantly a women’s sport 10 August against Surrey. originating in the USA, roller derby Support the girls’ Race for Life at: is growing in popularity, with the justgiving.com/wrd-team-extreme. wiltshirerollerderby.co.uk.

Wiltshire squad being established two

Fun run and summer fete Lethbridge Primary School in Old Town holds it annual fete and 10K fun run on Saturday 21 June.

The fun run starts at 11am, while the fete, from 11am to 2.30pm, hosts over 25 stalls, featuring an extensive range of arts, crafts and foods.

There will be refreshments available throughout the day at the school on Lethbridge Road, Swindon SN1 4BY. Fun run registration forms are available from: 52westlecot@gmail.com.

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Jo takes the cross Channel plunge for Aspire Having read an appeal for swimmers from the spinal injury charity Aspire in the Sunday Times, North Swindon resident Jo Blount resolved to find out more – and found herself on a six-person relay team to swim across the English Channel this July.

Explaining why she was keen to take tempt is set for 1 July but it is entirely the plunge Swindon Dolphin Jo said: weather dependent. Each person “The work that Aspire do for people from the team will swim for an hour with spinal injuries is mind-blowing. at a time, and we think it will take us They are so willing to help people it between 12 to 18 hours to get across. makes you feel quite insignificant. I’m Jo starts her fundraising campaign not a runner but swimming is some- in aid of Aspire with a race night on thing I can do. I work at the Defence 7 June at the Tawny Owl pub. She Academy where I can train every day said: “There will be 8 races and loads in the swimming pool.” of raffle prizes. I’m really grateful to At the moment Jo’s schedule in- local businesses for supporting the cludes ten swims over five days, then night with sponsorship and prizes. two days with only one swim each. I’ve certainly learned that if you don’t Her open-water swimming practice ask you don’t get.” takes place at Lake 31 at Cotswold For details of the fundraiser mail: Water Park. joblount@yahoo.co.uk Sponsor Jo via: Jo added: “The cross Channel at- justgiving.co.uk/jo-blount

Netball players wanted for friendly club Moredon Netball Club is looking for new players interested in joining a friendly squad with three teams in the Swindon league.

The club is over 50 years old and trains at Next Generation, Kembrey Park, on Mondays, 7pm until 9pm.

Find out more by contacting Jenny Carter on 01793 724044 .

Big screen donation for Gorse Hill centre

Members of the Open Door Centre in Gorse Hill have taken delivery of a huge 52-inch flat screen TV, which they are using in a mini cinema at their base in St Barnabas Church Hall.

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Welcoming the donation to the Open Door, from left, Julie Walker, Kim Warren, Justin Tomlinson MP, Andrew McKenzie, David Wigmore, Craig Hiscock, David Boote, Tom Fullalove of Webbs Timber

The charity provides a specialist day resource for adults with learning disabilities, and staff were amazed when North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson turned up on 23 April with the TV, thanks to a £500 donation from Jez Webb of Webb’s Wood Products.

Justin said: “I’ve visited Open Door several times and have friends who use the day centre. We went shopping on 22 April and used our powers of persuasion at several retailers in the town centre, and came away with the TV, and an older generation Wii ,which Craig at Open Door had asked for.

Craig Hiscox at the Open Door said: “We were amazed when Justin arrived, we were expecting something much smaller. Having a giant TV means more people can do fitness class and also watch films together.”

Open Door provides a day centre on Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4pm, but are also planning to host evening sessions.

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Hope for September start on new Abbey Stadium

The plans for a new speedway and greyhound racing stadium could be entering the home straight, says Clarke Osborne, managing director of site owners and stadium operating company Gaming International.

The site between St Andrew’s Ridge and Tadpole Lane has been under consideration since 2007 when North Swindon councillor and now MP Justin Tomlinson backed a campaign

by Swindon Robins speedway fans to ensure the team would have a home after the future of Abbey Stadium came under threat.

Stadium, which has been there for over 60 years, is in urgent need of replacement, said Mr Osborne. “What we have come up with is a state of the art facility with added elements for education and entrepreneurs.

“The track will be slightly shorter than at present and the design of the grandstand itself will ensure that the

nesses and entrepreneurs a chance to establish themselves.

Mr Osborne added: “Justin has been always been keen that the stadium reaches out to young people of the area and it will provide opportunity to gain motor maintenance skills and the veterinary and kennels area will be used for animal husbandry courses.

experience will be more akin to going horse racing.

“Going to speedway and greyhound racing nowadays is very much a leisure activity, rather than for betting. Visitors will be able to enjoy a large glass walled lounge which will look out onto the track lit from above so there are no low level pylons and cables obscuring the view. People will only have to step a few feet onto a large open air terrace to watch all the action.”

The existing market hall, currently in a separate building, will be incorporated in the ground floor of the stadium complex. It will be more compact than now and there will be an emphasis on giving start-up busi-

“There will also be an entrepreneurs’ centre in which young people can develop ideas with support and put them into practice in the market hall.”

The stadium will offer the most advanced media facilities available whereby cameras are operated remotely and video is streamed to TV companies without having to send an outside broadcast unit.

The resulting lower cost will make Swindon an attractive location for international meetings which will boost the economy.

The on-site car parking will be

George Osborne, right, holding the stadium plans with Gaming International development manager George Edwards

After much negotiation, including a change of use of the surrounding land from light industrial to housing, and having to delay the project after the 2008 recession hit, Persimmon Homes are about to start on the first of 500 houses which will fund the stadium.

Subject to detailed planning permission from Swindon Council, construction could start at the end of September with completion in the Autumn of 2015.

To ensure there is no disruption to greyhound and speedway seasons, the new stadium will be built adjacent to the existing facility, next to the access road to the A419.

“Everybody knows that Abbey

Always where the action is

adequate for greyhound racing but the unused park and ride site on Cricklade Road will be utilised for speedway fans.

The stadium building will have low energy requirements, incorporate solar panels and the track sprinklers will use stored rain water.

The directional public address system will be more clear and less intrusive to housing which will be 200 metres away and masked by a tree planting belt.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson said: “I’m incredibly excited that the plans for the new Abbey Stadium are about to be submitted.

We fought long and hard to secure a future for speedway in Swindon.

The plans look absolutely fantastic for Robins fans, market traders and the whole community.

“Clarke Osborne and his team at Gaming International have been wonderfully responsive to the ideas put forward. I’m really looking forward to putting the first spade in the ground to get the project underway.”

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Tel: 01793 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 swindonlink.com • June 2014 33

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Anti-malaria charity gets timely funding boost Swindon children’s author and Story Sack inventor Neil Griffiths collected a cheque from Bombay Lounge on 14 May to help fund the maintenance and provision of mosquito nets in the village of Gunjur in the Gambia.

Neil runs the Starfish Malaria form which is traditional in the GamProject alongside his Corner to Learn bia and very close to Neil’s heart. publishing business. The charity emExplaining the urgency to combat ploys three health visitors in Gunjur the spread of malaria Neil said: “We’re who educate local people about the now in the malaria season until July dangers of malaria through a monthly and we need to dip the anti-mosquito radio show, and home visits targetnets in insecticide to provide extra ing pregnant women and those with protection. young children.

“The health visitors organise netThey also perform puppet shows to dipping parties with food, drumming get across important health concepts, and dancing to encourage people to making use of a popular story-telling come along. To keep costs down we’ve helped people in the village to make Neil receiving a cheque for £350 from Hanif Robani at the Bombay Lounge the nets. We have also provided tools for filling in puddles to prevent the Curry cashback evening helps women’s Cuba bike ride malaria-carrying mosquitos breeding.

“We estimate that we’ve put 7,500 Faye O’Donaghue and her mum Michelle Bentham are cycling 400km across Cuba from Havana to Santa people under nets in Gunjur and cases Clara to raise £5,800 for breast, cervical and ovarian of malaria have dropped dramatically.

“Hanif ’s £350 donation and the cancer which have claimed members of their family. £280 raised in the raffle on the night They are well on the way to their target from cake means that at least another 150 sales, car boot sales, a Christmas fayre and raffles. Emchildren will be protected.” ployer David Wilson Homes have contributed £500 Hanif commented: “Hearing how and Thames Water has donated £656.

They are holding another big raffle and organising the money raised at the curry nights a night at Swindon Greyhound track. For tickets and is used really makes our commitment to local organisations worthwhile.” details see Facebook: fayeandmichellecyclecuba Faye, right, and Michelle, receiving £200 from Hanif following their charity curry night in April

Find out more at cornertolearn.co.uk/ starfish-malaria-project

Eat & Drink as much as you like*

Fridays + saturdays Peatmoor�24.90 Old Town 27.90 *Does not include king/tiger prawn/fish dishes Any food or drinks at least not half consumed must be paid for.

Drinks can only be ordered one at a time.

The bar closings times may vary. The management reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time without prior notice. Additional condition apply, please ask at the restaurant for full details

Thursdays and Sundays www.bombaylounge.co.uk

01793 431033 52 Devises rd,Old Town, Swindon sn1 5bj

Peatmoor 19.90 Old town 22.90

01793 887799 2 roughmoor village centre peatmoor.swindon.sn5 5bj

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TWIGS Community Garden Summer Open Day Sunday 22 June, 11am to 4pm Wildflower nursery Plants and crafts for sale Live music, refreshments children’s activities Admission £2 OAPs/concs £1.50; children free TWIGS (Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon), Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor

West neighbourhood a haven of bio-diversity Thirty one species of flower type have been identified in Grange Park as part of a £1.3 million Urban Pollinator project led by academics at Bristol University.

With the loss of wildflower meadows in the countryside since World War II, the UK Insect Pollinators Initiative coordinated via university teams in Bristol, Reading, Leeds and Edinburgh is more important than ever.

Bees, butterflies, beetles and bugs from hundreds of parks, gardens, allotments, church-yards and cemeteries across the country have all gone under the microscope to determine how populations of pollinating insects are affected by urban environments, and what we can do to improve biodiversity in our towns and cities.

Beginning in 2011 the project experienced some difficulties during the very wet summer of 2012, causing repeat visits to be made to participating locations.

However, the results of the project have already impacted city centres, where an increased number of wildflower meadows are being created in preference to cultivated planting, with flowers such as poppies, cornflowers, meadow buttercups and red campion providing dazzling displays.

Commenting on the benefits of this approach project leader Professor Jane Memmott said: “Sowing meadows like these that contain nectar- and pollen-rich plant species increases the provision of foraging resources for bees and other pollinating insects in urban areas.

“Replacing traditionally planted areas with flower meadows can also have economic benefits as wildflowers are less expensive for councils to replace than cultivated plants.”

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urbanpollinators.org swindonlink.com • June 2014 35

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GAZEBO

LANDSCAPING

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION ESTABLISHED 1992

• •

•

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Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, shingle Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up Turfing, grass seeding Ponds & pergolas

Tel: 07711 253508 freshwind@blackberry.orange.co.uk

Debbie Evans

Garden Maintenance Est 1997

 Grass Cutting  Hedge Cutting  Power Washing  One-Off Tidy Ups or Regular Maintenance  Landscaping  Free Estimates

Get close to wildlife near the centre of Swindon There’s a rare chance to visit Swindon Lagoons with Wiltshire Wildlife volunteer wardens Simon Wicks and Gordon Shaw from 10am on Saturdays 31 May, 28 June, 26 July, 9 August and 20 September.

Call 01793 874806 or 07812 918790

This hidden gem, close to Thames Water’s works at Barnfield, contains some 20 lagoons between Shaw Forest Park and the River Ray and is not open to the public for safety reasons.

A large variety of birdlife including herons, egrets and songbirds populate the area. Grass snakes, slow worms, voles and deer also live on the reserve and a tour could include sightings.

Tour groups meet at the access gate off the River Ray Parkway cycle path opposite Shaw Forest Park.

Booking is essential as numbers for each tour are limited. Call Gordon Shaw on 01793 616558 to book a place.

Dogs are not permitted on the reserve and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

West gardens open for two good causes

In support of

Saturday 14th June and Sunday 15th June 11am to 5pm Gardens in the Shaw and Nine Elms area from cottage style to contemporary. Crafts, plant sales, refreshments, tombola, raffle and more

Volunteers in Shaw and Nine Elms will be opening their gardens on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June.

Now in its 12th year, the event waterways and wildlife reserves. has raised over £24,000. The 2014 Organiser Kevin Fisher said: “The proceeds will be split equally between two day event is not just about raising SMASH and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. funds for charities, it is also about SMASH is a unique Swindon helping bring a community together project that matches volunteers with in a fun, relaxing way. young people who, through no fault “Every participating garden has of their own are not getting enough something different, providing both attention, encouragement and advice visual delight and inspiration. Some to help them develop their talents and gardens will have home grown plants skills, and have decided they want to for sale. Many will be offering refreshchange their lives. ments that include homemade cakes Wiltshire Wildlife Trust works to and even pizza. There will also be craft inspire people to enjoy, understand sales, tombola and raffle. and take action to protect the natural “Regardless of your gardening world, from window boxes and the interests or abilities, come along for nooks and crannies of everyone’s inspiration, a nice cup of tea and back garden, to wildflower meadows, homemade cake.”

Kevin and Sheriden Fisher in their Old Shaw Lane garden

Entrance to all gardens on both days £3 per adult, accompanied under 17s free.

Tickets available from all participating gardens on the day.

See details and download a map: westswindonopengardens.com

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HERITAGE TREE CARE

PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS Comprehensive service Qualified staff Fully insured • Pruning and Shaping • Felling and Removal • Hedge Cutting • Stump Grinding • Tree Planting Free quotations and advice Call Ian Walding (N.C.Hort N.D.Arb)

01793 790210 07971 566880 Email: treeman@iwalding.freeserve.co.uk

Blackwood JillGarden Magic

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Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal

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

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

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or e-mail: gillian.blackwood@ntlworld com

Established locally for over 8 years References available

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LANDSERVE

No Job Too Small. All works insured

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mowing

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• Planting, clearance and much more For a free no obligation quote call Cliff on 01793 703986 or 07973 391 668

Email: info@gardencareswindon.co.uk

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

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For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

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Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

FREETH FENCING & GARDEN SERVICES LTD Est. 1990 35 Spencer Close, West Swindon Lawn & Hedge Cutting Maintenance General Garden Tidy Turfing Give your garden a makeover Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 or 01793 951076 j.dowell@live.co.uk

❖ Fences, gates & sheds supplied and erected ❖ Landscaping ❖ Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed ❖ Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied ❖ Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden

maintenance

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• All Traditonal Fencing • Decking •Gates •Sheds • Pergolas & Planters • Timber supplies • Insurance Repairs

Call today for a free quote

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History on wheels at the farm

A new bright poppy red Nuffield Universal tractor has become the latest attraction in the children’s play barn at Lower Shaw Farm.

Farm manager Matt Holland said he fell in love on first sight as it is the same model he had driven in his teens when hay baling on farms across north Wiltshire.

Children can play on it, as well as feed the chickens or stroke the pig at the weekly community cafe every Wednesday from 10am to 2pm.

Turn up or see: lowershawfarm.co.uk/groups-meetings/wednesday-cafe

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

For a reliable local service with over 30 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

Office furniture available at sensible prices Swindon Scrapstore has opened an office furniture reuse shop in the town centre, selling good quality yet affordable second-hand items and equipment to members of the public.

The project has been made possible by a £20,000 grant from the Lloyds TSB Foundation to support schools, community groups and charities.

Swindon Children’s Scrapstore was set up in 1985 to provide pre-schools and community groups with clean, low cost resources for reuse in creative and educational play. Now based in Elgin Industrial Estate, it stocks paper, card, fabric, toys, books, tiles, carpet and lino, CDs and DVDs, plastic pots, office stationery, rope, netting and much more.

“Due to the demand from local businesses to donate their redundant office furniture we decided to set Olivia McCann setting up shop. Photo: up the project and it has been very Richard Wintle of Calyxpix.com Last year Scrapstore diverted over successful,” said manager Olivia McCann. “With our new High Street 100 tonnes of reusable resources from presence we’re able to make this landfill back into reuse.

If your business or company is furniture available to the public and upgrading, down-sizing or closing to start-ups and entrepreneurs.”

The shop at 73 Regent Street, down, Scrapstore will collect surplus Swindon, SN1 1LA is open Tuesday, furniture and IT equipment. Contact Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Olivia: olivia@scrapstore.co.uk or call 01793 513982 or 07739023290.

Saturday, 11am to 4pm.

Optimising your motoring experience

Royal Wootton Bassett independent garage Optima Motors is celebrating ten years since opening by launching a car accessory shop.

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome

Angelina Morgan showing off some of the items available at Optima

✶ cam belt replacement ✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds ✶ electrical fault code reading ✶ MOT repairs ✶ vehicle sales ✶ servicing to light commercials

Run by Nick Gregory and Angelina Morgan, who live in Toothill, the accessory showroom next to the Optima workshop off Station Road, stocks everything needed for anyone who wants to keep their wheels looking clean and shiny.

Products by Auto Glym, Simoniz and Demon Shine are sold, alongside a range of lubricants and parts that can be self-fitted like windscreen wipers.

Also available are the Neilson range

New Accessory Shop Now Open

Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett Open 8.30am - 5.30pm

of tools suitable for use by the DIY mechanic.

The Fiat and Alfa Romeo specialist, Nick uses state of the art diagnostic equipment which allows him to service and repair any make of vehicle.

The accessory shop is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 4pm and Sunday 9.30am to 12noon.

For details see the advert on the left.

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Recycling charity restores confidence Former teacher and West Swindon resident Ian Howard has recently taken over as project manager at Swindon Restore – and is spreading the word about what is available at the charity’s shop.

“Despite the name, we are not a fur- to get back into work, as well as being niture restoration factory,” explained a focal point for the local community,” Ian. “We take in good quality items said Ian. of furniture, dust them down and sell Swindon Restore is always looking them on at the lowest price possible.” for volunteers from all over the town, Based at St John’s Church Hall who are invited to apply and come in Whitbourne Avenue, opposite along for a short interview.

Cavendish Square, the charity supThey can then get involved with ports the long-term unemployed and working in the shop, the sorting area helps vulnerable people back into or garden, and can assist in distributemployment. ing leaflets and helping with furniture “Our main purpose is to help collection and delivery. people build up confidence and skills Any donations of furniture, electrical and household items, bric-a-brac and clothing are gratefully received. The shop is open from 10am to 4pm on weekdays, and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays.

Find out more on the Swindon Restore Facebook page, or contact Ian Howard: ian@swindonrestore.co.uk or call 01793 978045.

Ian Howard at Restore

New, easier to find home for Rugshack Neil Fisher from Haydon Wick is marking the tenth year running his own business by opening a new carpet, rug and vinyl showroom closer to homes in West and North Swindon.

To be found at Westmead Industrial Estate, off Mead Way, Rugshack now has more space to display carpets and colour ways from top brand suppliers like Cormar, Abingdon, Associated Weavers and Axminster.

There is a wide range of vinyl floor coverings, room sized carpet remnants and over 200 rugs in stock. Rugshack also has equipment to edge carpets on the premises so bespoke sizes can be quickly prepared.

Neil, pictured, said: “We’re a family business which prides itself on offering a personal service.

“We’d like to thank all our customers who have come back to us over and over during the last ten years, and look forward to meeting new people looking for quality products and sensible prices.”

And to help your decision, take advantage of the Rug Shack 10 per cent offer in the advert below.

THE RUG SHACK

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

TEL: 01793 536784 SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS

BRICKS, CONCRETE BLOCKS, CELCON BLOCKS, BLOCK PAVING, PATIO SLABS, SAND, GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, BARK, CANTABURY SPAR, LANDSCAPE FABRIC, DRAINAGE CHANNELS, BUILDING CHEMICALS, ROCK SALT AND CEMENT

www.sansums.co.uk

welcomes customers old and new at our new, larger premises just off Mead Way, close to West and North Swindon Celebrate our 10th year with 10% off with this advert

Local independent family business Supplying carpets, vinyls, remnants, Flotex, rugs and rug edging service.

Find us at 3 Hammal Buildings, Westmead Drive, Westmead Estate, Swindon SN5 7YT Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

Tel: 01793 614013

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TLD CARPENTRY & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Professional carpentry • Laminate & Real wood flooring • Replacement doors • Kitchen fitting (supply & fit or fit only) • Tiling • Painting/Decorating • General maintenance & Repair Fully insured • No job to small Free no obligation quote Contact TLD on 07881 556799 E: TLDcarpentry@yahoo.co.uk

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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 550065 ★ 15 years experience

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The Plumber you’ll Recommend!

RepaiRs, installation, Maintenance FRee Quotes! excellent seRvice!

Call Justin:

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Earthmoving Services • Garden/site shaping, levelling, clearance • Footings, trenches & ditches excavated • Hardcore sub-bases & roadways/tracks • Concrete, tarmac, hedge

& stump removal • Soil screening/debris removal • Micro excavator, minimum access width required: 29” (730mm) C.P.C.S Licensed • Fully Insured Call Steve to discuss your needs and receive a free estimate Tel: 01793 848708 or 07967 341567

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

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Advert.indd 1

02/02/2011 09:58 16/05/2014 11:58

BATHROOMS

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

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INTERIOR EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H

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Approved Plumber

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HEATING & PLUMBING

• No job too small

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

01793 320773 07779 006360

HEATING & PLUMBING Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work

✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING

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

De cor ato r

Creation Born Of Perfection Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms

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

r&

MJP Home Creations

ain te

& Heating ❉ Quality bathroom suites

Stylish Bathrooms

EP

Plumbing

ID

BATHROOMS

PR

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

203455

PLASTERING BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken

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

Please contact Brian Jones

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834

Professional, reliable and friendly service www.swindonplasterer.com

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

PLASTERING Forest Plastering Services Internal & external All aspects covered Drylining & coving Artexing & patch repairs Building & maintenance CRB cleared

01793 531171 or 07906 247698

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BATHROOMS

BLINDS

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind the place for quality and value

Brighten up your home for Spring 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

www.charismablinds.co.uk

DECORATOR

TREVOR WYSE 38 years experience

Professional Painter & Decorator Wallpaper Specialist Coving • Dado Rails • Tiling

Call 01793 721455 or 07976 885203 www.trevorwyse.com

HEATING & PLUMBING

DECORATOR

DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT • 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

HOME MAINTENANCE G R SERVICES

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

t Central heating installations t All Plumbing work undertaken t Servicing & repairs t Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates Alec McKay Tel: 01793 951399 Mobile: 07963 953439 E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

TILING

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

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

TILING

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

TILING WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Please call Leon for a free quote

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

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

TEL: 01793 330975 MOB: 07919 255673

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

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

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

CARPENTRY J&R Carpentry Services ❍ Specialist in kitchens.

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

Call Kevin Cook on Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

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

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

Players wanted

Lydiard Millicent Junior Football Club is looking for boys and girls to join new under 7 and under 8 teams, and also players to join the under 9 and under 10 squads for the 2014/15 season.

For details call Gerald Kent on 07533679298 or email gerald.kent@tesco.net Swindon Rangers Football Club is recruiting players to join their new under 8s squad and the existing under 9 team in preparation for next season.

Under 8s would be starting Year 3 from September, and under 9s would be going into Year 4.

The teams train on Saturday mornings. For details contact Clint Ricketts: clintricketts@talktalk.net or 07585 162655

From novice cyclist to 100 miler in 7 months Laura Chadwick, 28, from Rodbourne, will be taking on the Prudential Ride London in August, in aid of the Swindon charity Dressability, where her mum Pam helps to alter clothes for disabled people.

But as she describes on her train- into fitness all that much, but it's an ing schedule blog, laurakate8503. absolute privilege to be able to ride wordpress.com, Laura has stepped along the streets of London while up from being a novice cyclist doing the roads are closed – and sprint a maximum of 33 miles a day to 100 along the Mall at the end.” miles whilst holding down a full time Having made the decision to ride, job and completing her masters de- Laura then chose to raise money for gree in information capability man- Dressability. Her blog documents agement. the trials and tribulations of building Commenting on her involve- up her endurance, and in particular ment Laura said: “My brother, who what happened when she broke the is a much more experienced cyclist, 80 mile barrier. also applied for the London ride but Support Laura and donate to he didn’t get a place whilst I did. I Dressability at: mydonate.bt.com/ wasn’t really a cyclist, and not even fundraisers/laurakate.261

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ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

Craig Dell FCCA

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

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

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING

Elite

Carpet Cleaning Services Fast, friendly service Average sized room £35 Stairs and landing £25 Sofas £25

Contact Matt on 07734 253189 or 01793 670330

COMPUTER SUPPORT

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

aerials & satellite systems

Aerial Solutions

Chris Payne ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

CARPET CLEANING

• Does your picture freeze and break up?

• Would you like TV points in other rooms?

• Do you want Freesat or Sky installed?

Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

CARPET CLEANING 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 Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

FURNITURE

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING

Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

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

01793 421802

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

FURNITURE WANTED

GARAGE DOORS

RestoRation & Restyling

all types of fuRnituRe

Back to new, a change of colour or a special finish Call 07812 644801 email: markantonystokes@ googlemail.com

IRONING Rebecca’s Ironing Service Professional ironing with free collection and return.

Any item only £14 per hour (Approx 14 mens shirts ph) Regular collections or just when the pile gets too high!

48 hour turnaround For details and to book contact Rebecca on 01793 338239 07889791562

LOCKSMITH

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

OVEN CLEANING

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

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

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

REMOVALS

WHITE VAN MAN Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

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

Genuine 24hr service

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

HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING KEY CUTTING

BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT?

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

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

01793 733822 or email:

oven@enlan.co.uk

SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35 • • • • •

Full house removal House clearance Disposal of unwanted items Any distance long/short Fully insured

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

BOOK-KEEPING

HALE SKILLS

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

• Washing Machines • Cookers • Dishwashers

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

• Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Call 07963 131429

CLEARANCE

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

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

0800 6899988 or 01793 434600 www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS

Showroom:

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

SCRAP METAL

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

Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Computer problems?

Let us help

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

Est 2002 For all your computing needs

• • • • •

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

For a dedicated local service with a Microsoft Certified Professional, with over 21 years experience, call 01793 734 710 or 07799 337 918 E: info@compucareuk.com www.compucareuk.com

Tel: 01793 325685

Head shave in aid of charity on 31 May

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

swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

TV REPAIRS

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

Call Darryl Pace on 01793 812738

Violin teacher Helen Goode from Grange Park, who works as Helen Godfrey, is taking on a radical new look for a good cause when she has her long hair completely cut off in aid of Cancer Research UK on Saturday 31 May. The deed will be done at 10.30am in The Cutting Bar at the West Swindon Centre and she hopes as many people as possible will come along to support her.

Helen said: "I'm doing this because I can make the decision myself - for many people this is not the case, and losing their hair can be a traumatic part of chemotherapy.

"I've lost friends and family members over the years to cancer, and I'd like to do something extra to help this year. Everyone else can enjoy seeing me looking very Help Helen online at: justgiving. strange without hair, but hopefully com/helengoode we can raise money to help beat cancer in the future."

Volunteers Week Helen will be boosting her fund1 to 7 June raising by taking part in the Cancer Discover how to offer Research Race for Life at Lydiard your time and talents to Park the following day. organisations in Swindon Once cut off Helen will be For details call Sue Dunmore putting her hair to good use by on 01793 420557 donating it to the Little Princess or see: Trust, which makes free wigs for swindonvolunteers.org.uk children following hair loss.

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Important opportunity to learn about the impact of forced marriage A chance book purchase for holiday reading introduced Debbie McGaw to the work of Jasvinder Sanghera CBE and her charity Karma Nirvana which supports victims of honour based violence and forced marriages - and Your VHS video, camcorder has led to an awareness-raising roadshow coming to Swindon on 27 June. tape or cine film transferred Jasvinder’s book, Shame, tells the parents had chosen her prospective awareness of this terrible issue, and to DVD Disc from £15 horrific true story of her experience husband by her fourteenth birthday. educate victims and professionals running away from home after her In 1993 she founded Karma Nir- alike on the new law.

Tel: 01793 705333 “We already have 50 attendees vana and has played a pivotal role in the criminalisation of forced marriage booked in for the roadshow, including people from the police and the health in Britain in 2012.

Link distributors wanted Sadly Karma Nirvana was an service, but we have capacity for 50 People are needed to deliver the magazine organisation whose help Debbie more. This is an issue that representaand her family could have used in tives from the voluntary sector would in Greenmeadow and Peatmoor the past, when they wanted to help find very useful to know more about.”

For details please call BHL on 01793 723745 The charity operates a helpline for a young person in a similar situation people impacted by honour based to Jasvinder.

Reading the book two years ago in- violence and forced marriage, and West Swindon and Lydiard Tregoze spired Debbie to get involved with the lobbies at the highest level of UK charity and do what she could to raise government.

Church Partnership The Swindon roadshow takes place awareness. As a result the organisation Please join us in worship on Sunday mornings asked Debbie, from Haydon Wick, at Emmanuel United Reformed to organise a roadshow for Swindon. Church in Haydon Wick on 27 June, Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am Commenting on the importance of 1pm to 5pm. It is an opportunity to St Mary’s Lydiard Tregoze Karma Nirvana’s work Debbie said: meet project manager Anup Manota - the church in the park: 10am “So many people in the UK, includ- and hear accounts of forced marriage Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am ing people in the helping professions survivors.

To register for a place, mail: Deband in public service, are unaware Toothill Church: 10.30am bie@mcgaw.eu. that forced marriage is happening For details of these and our other services Karmanirvana.org.uk under their noses. It’s vital to raise call the Partnership Office on 01793 874221 Email: wspartnershipoffice@gmail.com Website: WSwinlyd.org.uk

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

St. John’s Haydon Wick

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

Sunday 9am Traditional communion service Services 11am Eventful, contemporary worship

with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Open to all, serving tea, coffee, cakes & light lunches Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 2pm

Refugees Welcome Here!

Thursday 19 June, 6pm to 9pm St Joseph’s Catholic College, Ocotal Way, Swindon SN3 3LR Hear the experience of refugees starting a new life in Swindon.

Find out more about the legal process, the realities of being an asylum seeker in Britain today, how the media so often get it wrong – and what you can to do help.

This event, organised by the Swindon Harbour Project, is part of Refugee Week, which provides a platform to create positive images of refugees, foster better understanding between different communities and

encourage successful integration, thereby enabling refugees to live in safety and continue making a valuable contribution to the community.

Places are free, but organisers would appreciate knowing if you plan to attend so they can cater accordingly with snacks from around the world.

Contact The Harbour Project on 01793 611 682 or mail: harbourhelp@harbourproject.org.uk refugeeweek.org.uk

‘Reaching out to welcome all’ Services each Sunday at 8am & 10.30am Full provision for children and young people at every 10.30am service Parking opposite the Church at Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall.

For details call Revd Tudor Roberts on 01793 772417 www.allsaints-online.org.uk 46 swindonlink.com • June 2014

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

Get Moving Month a great success

Relish the challenge

Over 60 people helped launch Get Moving month, which was celebrated with a walk around the green spaces at Sevenfields.

Over 750 people are already signed up to the Active Swindon Challenge, which rewards trips on foot, by bike and public transport with points. And what do points make? Prizes!

Get Moving month encouraged people to do a little bit more activity, such as walking, cycling or swimming, and used inspirational case studies to highlight the benefits that exercise can bring.

It is hoped that Swindon residents will keep up the good work through the warmer months and beyond, using the Active Swindon Challenge - www.activeswindonchallenge.org.uk - or the year round ‘walking for health’ programme as motivation to keep moving. Visit our website for more inspiration!

Get inspired online

It runs until the August Bank Holiday, join in now. Everyone who registers one trip gets a free water bottle and the more trips you log, the more prizes on offer.

Compete as a team, group or family, set some personal goals and join in the challenge chat.

There are plenty of spot prizes for participants, from family cinema tickets and shopping vouchers, so it doesn’t matter whether you do one short trip, or a hundred long ones, you could still be rewarded. And, everyone achieving silver medal status and above will go into a prize draw to win an iPad! Find out more at ActiveSwindonChallenge.org.uk

The revolution takes place on a bike Swindon’s cycle revolution gets underway in earnest from June, with a variety of events for all ages and abilities. From free commuter bike breakfasts, weekly group ‘Sky rides,’ free bike mechanic checks, ladies only rides, charity cycle rides, free cycle security marking and club ‘try out’ sessions, there’s no excuse not to take to two wheels.

We’ve published a brochure to signpost you to all the events and organisations involved – pick one up from your local bike shop, or download from swindoncyclerevolution.com See all events listed at swindontravelchoices.org.uk

Our main website swindontravelchoices.org.uk is full of handy links, listings and features to help you get around Swindon including: • A journey planner, giving you routes from A to B by foot, on a bike, on the bus or by car, with journey times, how many calories you’ll burn and emissions statistics too • An events listing of all the walks, bike rides, charity events and more. If it’s happening in the Swindon area, we can tell you about it • Downloadable materials like brochures, maps and documents; • A sign-up form for our monthly newsletter. Don’t miss out; we can deliver transport news to your inbox • Useful links to information and websites concerning cycling, walking, car sharing, the car club, taking the bus and train and working from home If you haven’t logged on recently, take a look around and see what you can find.

Keep in touch with the latest Swindon Travel Choices news, events and initiatives by subscribing to our e-mail newsletter via: www.swindontravelchoices.org.uk

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Swindontravelchoices

@Swindon_Travel

16/05/2014 10:47

Available from 26.05.14 - 29.06.14

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