East Swindon Link January 2018 edition

Swindon Life p19

The Service Sector p28 No 4 January 2018

The Puzzle Page p31

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 125,000

East Swindon Edition

Celebrating one year of The Tuppenny p26

Celebrating Swindon's young carers Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson gets behind scheme donating books to young carers - page 16 Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

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Make 2018 the year of community

By Group Editor Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com

So you've managed to finally tear yourself away from the sofa after a few weeks of over-doing it over the festive period.

It's a brand new year. A chance for you to make a new start with new resolutions that hopefully last beyond the first week of January.

And as you stare blearyeyed ahead at what 2018 has in store, you can take comfort in the fact that Swindon Link will be with you every step of the way, letting you know how you can get involved in the community and really make a difference.

One of the things that we will be covering in detail over the next few months is the annual Pride of Swindon awards - a celebration of all of those people who offer their time and support to help others in the town.

These people are the best of us as they are the glue that keeps our community together.

And maybe in 2018 you could become one of them so that next year we might be talking about you when it comes to Pride of Swindon.

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

Education leaders salute contribution of long-serving head teacher

By Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com

Tributes have been paid to a popular former head teacher who devoted almost 30 years of his life to helping children at one of Swindon’s special schools.

Laurie Griffin, who passed away on 27 November after a long illness, was the head teacher of Stratton Education Centre (SEC) for 29 years between 1981 and 2010, and was well known to many colleagues, families and children through his work.

His funeral was held in his home village of Acton Turville, South Gloucestershire, on Saturday (9 December) and alongside family and friends, many colleagues from Swindon attended to pay their respects.

Born in Swindon, Laurie also spent some time in Lincolnshire with wife Christine before returning to the area and working in Malmesbury.

He was then appointed as head teacher of SEC, which currently comprises four education centres in Swindon: Stratton, The Riverside Centre, The Hospital Education Service and Marlborough House.

He helped many children and young people to overcome

challenging times in their lives and move forward, by either returning to a new school or moving into further education or employment.

His core belief was to work within the ethos of unconditional positive regard, an outlook which permeated his approach to all children and young people across his career, and something which was expected of all of his team.

Cllr Fionuala Foley, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and School Attainment, said: “Laurie touched the lives of many children and families in Swindon over the years and I know he will be sorely missed.

“He made a real difference and his passing is marked with great sadness but also with deep gratitude from everyone involved in education in Swindon.”

John Gilbert, Swindon Borough Council’s Chief Executive, said: “Laurie was a much admired colleague, held in high affection by those who were fortunate to work with him and learn from him.

“He was held in high regard and became a trusted friend of

the families of the many pupils who have attended the centres over the years.

“His positive approach and sense of fun was infectious.

Laurie was never far away from a smile.”

Laurie was married to Christine Griffin who is the retired head teacher of Ferndale Infant School.

His own father was a craftsman and Laurie became skilled in areas such as building and design. He and his family completely renovated a cowshed in Wales to become a special family holiday home.

During this time, he made many friends in the local area, some of whom attended the funeral.

He was also a skilled and talented willow-basket maker and toward the later years of his life, he enjoyed baking for friends and family.

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Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 744677 swindonlink.com n January 2018

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Kingsdown pupils get tech savvy on trip to Honda

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

Fifthteen Year 10 Computer Science Students from Kingsdown School visited Swindon’s Honda plant in November.

Pupils were given the opportunity to engage with Computer Science

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on a whole new level by swapping their classroom for a trip to Honda.

To put theory into practice the Kingsdown students were given a tour of Honda’s plant, which enabled them to understand how the manufacturer implemented their software systems for

business and practical use.

Mr S Mays, Teacher of Computer Science, said: “The students were absolutely engaged from the moment we arrived at the Honda South Gate until the moment we left. The tour was conducted by Darren King, the Education link

for Honda.

“We walked around the plant and traced a car in production from not existing to being test driven. The whole experience was fantastic and allowed the students to witness Computer Science in the real world. A big thankyou to Honda for having us.”

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Fingers crossed! SMAG team submit bid for £12m to Heritage Lottery Fund Fingers are crossed across the region now that the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust has submitted a £12 million bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The Trust has compiled nearly 800 pages of evidence to back up the argument that the current home for the town’s collections of modern British art and ceramics and artefacts is no longer fit for purpose. This is backed up by more than 4,000 conversations between the Trust and residents, employees, employers, partners and even visitors to the town at events across Swindon over the past year and 5,407 postcards of support.

The final bid submission was seen off on its journey by Swindon Borough Council, before heading to the current museum and then a tour of key Swindon supporters and partners including 90 children from Drove Primary School, Twigs, the Olive Tree Café, the UK Space Agency and GWR. With cross party support, the council has committed £5m to the project, with the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership pledging a further £1.35m.

The proposed museum and art gallery to be sited near the Wyvern theatre, will unlock the cultural quarter and transform the surrounding area, and the town itself.

The Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust has been given the responsibility to lead the bid submission and director Rod Hebden has been at the helm since April.

“A new museum and art gallery for Swindon will enable us to transform how we care for much of our museum and art collections, and how we use them to inspire people.

"We’ll be able to increase the

opportunities for people to develop skills and get involved in their heritage through volunteering, or just simply enjoy it, whether using the museum for community events, or simply taking some time out to unwind, socialise and enjoy our town’s incredible art.

“By working with great local partners like the Science Museum and UK Space Agency, we will be telling the story of Swindon’s past, and how it continues to shape the future, we can show the world what Swindon is really about, and fill our children with pride when they tell people where they’re from.

“By going out to meet and talk to people face-to-face we received a lot of feedback that has helped shape the submission. One of the major areas of comment was from people with physical mobility issues, and their feedback is helping the designers ensure the location of lavatories, size and quality of disabled facilities, and proximity of disabled parking facilities fully meet their needs.

“We were also approached by Twigs, the local mental health charity, who were interested in possible partnerships. That opened up great opportunities for them to take care of our rooftop gardens, and even grow produce to be served in our café.”

However, the team are acutely aware that this is a very competitive bid process and no matter how worthy, funding is not available for everyone.

“In the last round, only four projects out of 22 received funding, despite 11 of them being considered ‘High Priority’ – so the bare odds for any one project are tough,” says Rod.

“And the truth is that we’re in a bit of a David and Goliath situation. We’re up against projects from all over the country, including some big national museums in London. Most projects will have bigger teams and most will have more money behind them.

“But there’s one thing that the other teams won’t have, and that’s Swindon.

Swindon has great people, it has a history of innovation and a track record of surprising the country. We’re a determined bunch, and we persevere, and we make change happen. And making change happen is what the HLF, and our project, are all about.”

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Creative talent honoured at festival Budding young writers were honoured at the 10th Swindon Youth Festival of Literature.

The event, jointly co-ordinated by the librarians of the eleven secondary schools across Swindon, celebrates reading, writing and creativity.

Throughout the festival week, students worked with authors, poets, illustrators and storytellers who visited schools for readings, performances and workshops.

The event started on Monday 6 November with an Interschool Book Quiz and on the following day, schools were invited to see award winning fantasy fiction author Jonathan Stroud at the Wyvern Theatre.

During the week, performance poet Ash Dickinson returned to Swindon to visit each of the participating secondary schools to perform to all Year 7 students, encouraging their “inner poet” by supporting

them to create their own rhymes and verse.

Each school also hosted workshops and interactive talks from their chosen authors throughout the week.

Youngsters were also encouraged to take part in a 500 word creative writing competition and an illustration competition.

Nationwide Building Society are supporting Swindon Borough Council’s fostering team by providing Comfort U Bags (CUBs) to looked after children in the borough as part of a new project.

Nationwide will be donating 130 bags to the council’s fostering team over the next two months which will then be given to the children when they move into a new home.

Many children often come into foster care at very short notice and don’t have time to bring anything from home.

The CUBs which Nationwide will donate contain a whole

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson has been presented with his MBE

by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Macpherson was awarded the honour in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in June for services to the community.

The award of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is given “for an outstanding achievement or service to the community … which will have had a long-term, significant impact and stand out as an example to others”.

Panto fun for GWH

Swindon Council and Nationwide team up to provide comfort bags to children in foster care range of things to help a child feel more at home with their foster family including cuddly toys, book token, blanket, stationery, activity set and toiletries.

The council continue to be in need of new foster carers to help look after children who require support across the Borough.

Siân Briddon from Nationwide Building Society said: “As someone who has fostered myself, I was inspired to launch the CUBs as I’ve seen how difficult it is for a child coming into your home with just the clothes they are wearing.

“Giving the children something tangible, that is theirs to own is important in making them feel reassured and that they don’t have to ask for everything. The cuddly toy in particular can act as a companion as well as a confidante, and the book token

Gong for Angus

gives the child the opportunity to bond with their carer and make a choice on a book just for them.”

Cllr Fionuala Foley, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member responsible for fostering, added: “This is such an amazing project and is so important for those young people who will receive a Comfort U Bag. I would like to thank Nationwide for their support and generosity as this will make a huge difference to our looked after children.

“Moving to be with a foster family can be a tough time for a child so these bags will provide an added level of comfort to help the children feel at home with their new foster carers who do a fantastic job helping children in need across the Borough.”

If you are interested in finding out more visit www.swindon.gov.uk/fostering.

Young patients at Swindon’s Great Western Hospital were treated to a Panto performance of Cinderella as players from Starlight Children’s Foundation brought festive cheer to the town’s youngest patients.

The show, which is currently touring hospitals across the country, is an opportunity for the youngsters on the ward to enjoy an afternoon of festive fun in the run up to Christmas.

The Starlight charity has become known for providing entertainment to those in hospitals and hospices across the UK.

Arkell's pub purchase Arkell’s Brewery has bought its first pub in Tetbury.

The Wiltshire brewery has purchased The Priory Inn, a popular pub with accommodation, in the historic Cotswold town.

The Priory is the second major investment in the Cotswolds by Arkell’s in 2017.

The brewery also purchased The Crown Inn, Cirencester earlier in the year. It also bought Rudi’s wine bar in Swindon in January. swindonlink.com n January 2018

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Council ready for winter housing project to open its doors this month

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

The Swindon Homeless Alliance and Swindon Borough Council hosted an open afternoon for volunteers interested in partaking in the latest winter housing initiative.

Renovations are currently taking place at the former Health Centre on Carfax Street. Last month marked an open day for locals and volunteers to view the venue

and ask any questions about the project.

As a collaborative effort, charities across Swindon are devoting their time to collect donations to make sure the venue is ready for its opening on January 3. Charities and organisations involved include Swindon Borough Council, Night Shelter, Threshold, Christmas Care, Food bank, The Salvation Army, and Big Breakfast Plus.

The building is being made suitable to house at least 18 rough sleepers across 11

weeks. This will also include a kitchen, bathroom, two sleeping areas, and a designated space for volunteers.

Although the building is still planned to be demolished in March, Swindon Council believe that this is a forward-thinking initiative to trial permanent housing fixtures for rough sleepers.

Project Coordinator Rachel Holly, of Swindon Borough Council who are custodians of the building, explained: “This is a lot more of a collaborative effort, and it’s slowly coming together.

“We want to offer a safe space for people who are sleeping on the streets and provide more structure from the simplest things to waking up, having a shower, and then eating breakfast.

“I’ve been working with homelessness for so many years now, so this is really exciting.

For action to be being taken is fantastic.”

Rachel also explained how those who use the shelter and work with Swindon Council and the charities will be given a housing offer at the end of the 11 weeks. During this time they will be working with Booth House to offer tenancy ready courses.

Cher Smith, Swindon Foodbank Manager, said that there has been some misunderstanding and miscommunication regarding the official opening date of the shelter in January.

She said: “We didn’t want to open the shelter until after Christmas to make sure we don’t deter volunteers away from other charities, such as Christmas Care, with whom we are working alongside.

“This project is aimed at a different client group, for those of no fixed address, with a much more dedicated type of service which after these 11 weeks we’re hoping to find a permanent residency for."

who won the heart of judges last year for helping to raise money to pay for a wheelchair for a friend from Bosnia and former divisional commander of Swindon firefighters John Popowicz who was recognised last year for his decades of fundraising.

Mayor of Swindon Maureen Penny said: “There are a great many individuals and charities in

Swindon run by volunteers who give their time freely to help others not so fortunate.

The Pride of Swindon Awards allow the work that these wonderful people are involved in to be recognised and celebrated.

Long may it continue.”

The awards are sponsored by Positive Media Group, Zurich Community Trust, The Swindon

Advertiser, Swindon 105.5 Excalibur, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Wiltshire Police, Volunteer Centre Swindon, Voluntary Action Swindon, Nationwide, Intel and McDonald’s. The closing date for submissions is Friday, January 26, 2018. Nomination forms can be downloaded from Swindon Borough Council’s website.

It's your chance to nominate unsung heroes of 2017

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

Winners of last year’s Pride of Swindon joined judges and organisers of this year’s forthcoming awards to mark the opening of nominations for 2018 at a special event in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Now in its tenth year, the event aims to honour unsung community champions who make a difference to the town.

One of the organisers behind the event, Shirley Ludford, spoke to Alan Butler who was honoured last year for his work in organising the annual Runvember charity event to raise funds to support homeless people in Swindon.

He said: “It’s our chance to give something back. I have not got much but the people the charity supports have got even less. I was delighted to have been awarded the Pride of Swindon award last year – I was not expecting anything like this.”

Also at the event was Robert Le Kyng pupil Oscar Moulding

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Heritage hub plans Swindon former GWR Carriage Works is set to be transformed into a heritage training hub.

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and Forward Swindon is to develop a postgraduate and continuous professional training hub in Swindon to support training for the cultural heritage industries.

The development is in response to the numerous cultural training initiatives established by academic staff in the Faculty of Humanities based at the University’s Lampeter campus.

The University will lease a unit within the Carriage Works from where it will deliver a range of training programmes in the fields of Cultural Heritage and Architecture.

The new academic offer will contribute to the Council’s ambition to increase the supply of higher education options available in Swindon.

School build delay Plans to open a new primary school in Swindon's Badbury Park have been put on ice.

The proposed temporary Free School was due to be opened in September in association with Blue Kite.

But the Education and Skills Funding Agency have shelved the idea in order to focus on plans for a permanent school to open in September 2019.

The ESFA said that the programme of delivery for a temporary Free School will not proceed due to a number of factors. These include the agreement of heads of terms with the developer, a consultation with residents, achieving the relevant planning permission and connecting the new facility to currently unknown utility services.

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Speeding his way back behind the bar: Alun Rossiter takes over The Southbrook Inn

Alun Rossiter, and wife Julie

Swindon speedway supremo, Alun Rossiter, who manages the Swindon Robins team, is making a welcome return to being an Arkell’s landlord.

Alun and his wife Julie have taken over behind the bar at The Southbrook Inn, on Southbrook Street, Swindon.

Alun first became an Arkell’s landlord in 1997 when he ran The Dolphin pub in Rodbourne for the brewery. He moved to run Arkell’s Wheatsheaf on Ermin Street, but was forced to take a year out after badly injuring his knee.

Throughout his career Alun has been involved in speedway, retiring in 2002 after his knee injury. He became Team Manager at Swindon

Robins the following year and under his watch the Robins have won numerous championships.

Alun has Swindon running through his veins. Brought up in Penhill, attending Penhill Infants and Junior Schools, the family moved to Bruce Street at Rodbourne, where he went to Westbourne School.

For the past decade or so he and his family (His wife Julie and their four children, aged from four to ten), have lived in Stratton, Swindon.

Alun continued: “Despite leaving The New Inn at Stratton, I’ve kept in touch with Arkell’s throughout.

“In between managing the Robins, I’ve also been driving lorries and funnily enough I was driving an Arkell’s dray lorry the day the brewery bought the pub in 2015. So it feels great to now be back in charge.”

“We’ll be offering a full, new menu after Christmas, including Sunday roasts."

Brewery managing director, George Arkell, said: “It’s fantastic to have Alun and Julie back with us. The Southbrook is a community pub and we can’t think of a better team to run it than a Swindon-born couple with loads of experience and friends across the town.”

New patron appointed to support Swindon 105.5 Swindon’s community radio station has appointed influential businessman James Phipps as its new patron.

Following the recent sad loss of Lord Joel Joffe in June last year – Swindon 105.5 was left without a figurehead.

But James, proprietor of the Link Magazine and executive chairman of Excalibur Communications agreed to step forward to fill the role as Patron representing Business and Community.

Speaking at Swindon 105.5’s Station, James welcomed his appointment: “I would just like to say on a personal note that Lord Joel Joffe is someone who has influenced me in a lot of ways and I am delighted to take over where he left off.

Swindon 105.5 is the jewel in the crown of Swindon.

"I think that this is one of the very few voices left for the people of Swindon to find out about what’s happening

Newly appointed patron James Phipps with station manager Shirley Ludford

locally."

Station manager, Shirley Ludford shared the news that the station’s licence had been renewed by Ofcom for another five years.

She explained that the station will continue to build on the work that was started with the launch of the station nine years ago. Swindon 105.5

operates 24-hours a day to an audience of roughly 200,000 people across the town.

Also at the event, Jane Boulton of Zurich Community Trust presented a £5,000 donation to the radio station.

For more information contact the studio on 01793 611555, email: info@swindon1055.com or visit www.swindon1055.com

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The National Self Build and Renovation Show returns this month from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 January for a packed three days of live demonstrations, free seminars and a line up of experts on hand to share their advice.

Tickets are £12 per adult.

Over 240 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products and technologies with experienced representatives on hand to demonstrate, answer questions and offer their professional advice, including guided tours of the educational

zones, featuring a life sized 'Renovation House' and 'New Build Journey'.

The NSBRC's own team of impartial experts along with architects, project managers, designers, planners and eco consultants, will be on hand to meet for one-on-one sessions throughout the show.

The event is easy to get to with the NSBRC located on Junction 16 of the M4.

Link readers can claim free tickets by booking through www.nsbrc.co.uk and selecting booking code: Link.

Our Fully Guaranteed Prepaid Funeral Plans start from £3,350* For extra peace of mind, a complimentary, professionally written Will can be provided (if required).

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To receive a £75 discount on these fees please contact us, quoting the reference ‘Link1’ Town Office 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon SN1 2LT

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01793 832072 www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk info@pearcefuneralservices.co.uk * for the option of burial a contribution of £1250 will be made towards third party costs. Valid until 31st March 2018

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Next steps for Kimmerfields regeneration goes forward Swindon Borough Council and Muse Developments Ltd have, by mutual agreement, ended their development agreement for the Kimmerfields regeneration scheme.

The Council had been working with Muse and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) on the scheme which has successfully delivered a new 850-space multi-storey car park, assisted living residential accommodation, highway improvements and a major new NHS health centre which opened earlier this year.

Two other major milestones have been achieving regeneration outline planning for major office and residential

accommodation and securing a Compulsory Purchase Order to enable the scheme to be delivered. Cllr Garry Perkins, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Now that the first phase of Kimmerfields

has been completed, the Council and Muse have jointly taken the decision to end the development agreement early.

“Muse has made a valuable contribution to this scheme as large regeneration projects like this are extremely complex and involve

a number of third parties and landowners to complete the land assembly, which in turn means they can take many years to complete.

“The Council remains committed to delivering Kimmerfields and we will be working hard over the coming months

on plans for the remainder of the site.”

Doug Finlay, of Muse, added: “The Kimmerfields scheme, on which we have worked in partnership with the Council for a number of years, has successfully delivered a number of high quality initial buildings including the new state-of-the-art NHS Health Centre which was relocated from the centre of the land scheduled for the next phase of development.

"As the development agreement with the Council has only a few months left to run we have mutually agreed to bring it forward.”

Details on the Council’s plans for the next phase of Kimmerfields will be brought before the Cabinet in due course.

The Brunel Shopping Centre springs into action for 2018 The Crossing is the centre’s brand new food hub that is nearing completion.

Already open are traditional teashop McCtaff's, Eggelicious who serve freshly cooked wraps as well as Chopstix noodle bar and Tastes of Portugal cafe.

Top of the New Year’s resolution list is often losing weight and improving health, fitness and diet. The Brunel has a 24-hour gym with free parking. There’s no contract, you just pay £19.99 a month.

Next door to the gym is Go Gym Stuff who sell muscle and energy products and in the Brunel Plaza Holland & Barrett and Boots offer ranges of health foods and nutritional supplements.

There is also a range of beauty treatments including Aqua G, Kateson and Beautyspot and podiatrist Nina Shilova.

Swindon Cares donates £15,000 The result of a year of fundraising by Swindon Cares came to fruition with the handing over of £15,000 to two worthy causes.

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

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

concerts, quizzes and even an ‘unofficial’ half marathon.

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

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

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

Swindon Cares, now in its 14th year, has raised more than £249,000 for local charities. swindonlink.com n January 2018

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Swindon Artists Forum open new gallery in Brunel

A new gallery has opened in The Brunel bringing art to the town centre.

Swindon Artists Forum were

joined by Robert Hiscox DL, chair of the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust, who opened the new space.

The forum is a group of artists living within 25 miles of the town, who are dedicated to making art affordable to the public and have encouraged art in Swindon for the past 20 years.

The forum gives a percentage of the commission taken on sales to local charities, and has raised more than £18,000 for Prospect Hospice over the years, as well as distributing funds to other local charities.

Swindon bids for rail investment Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard has published an open letter to the Secretary of State asking for Swindon to be included in a major railway infrastructure project that could attract a significant financial boost for the town.

The letter to Chris Grayling MP welcomes the publication of Connecting people: a strategic vision for rail which outlines plans to restore a direct rail service between Oxford and Cambridge – and suggests that extending this investment to include Swindon would help meet the government’s policies on house building, industry, and economic development.

The letter adds that Swindon Borough Council had previously also submitted investment proposals to the National Infrastructure Commission, to enhance capacity on the Swindon-Didcot Parkway line, provide a new, high-quality commuter rail service between

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Swindon and Oxford via Grove, and to re-build the railway station in Swindon.

“These proposals, which centre on making greater use of the rail network, would not only help open up the area east of Swindon for muchneeded homes but the new station would also provide the opportunity for large-scale town centre brownfield house building.”

The letter was co-signed by Coun Oliver Donachie cabinet member for the Economy and Skills and Coun Garry Perkins, cabinet member for Regeneration.

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Crowds give wonderful Wiltshire welcome to Prince Charles

Flag waving children and cheering well wishers welcomed Prince Charles to Ramsbury.

The heir to the throne was all smiles as he took time out of his tour of the Ramsbury Estate to drop into The Bell pub for a spot of lunch and a chance to enjoy a Christmas reception for the estate's tenants.

Commenting on the bright but bitterly cold weather, he said: "I should imagine you will all be wanting a stiff drink after this!"

Teacher Sian Haynes and her orchestra of year 5 and 6 children added to the festive atmosphere with their rendition of carols.

She said: "I'm really proud of the children, they have been rehearsing for a couple of weeks and it sounded great."

The Prince also toured the estate's brewery and distillery.

The Ramsbury Estate includes over 19,000 acres of land in North East Wiltshire, West Berkshire and North Hampshire. The estate's farms are centred on the village of Ramsbury where it produces award-winning cask and bottled beers, as well as single estate gin and vodka.

Prince Charles is patron of the Prince’s Countryside Fund which was founded in 2010 and provides up to £1.2 million in grants to British farmers across the countryside.

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Sharing with the carers - WHSmith donate books to youngsters

WHSmith have donated hundreds of new books to Swindon Young Carers.

The books were donated to local young carers who look after someone in their family.

Young carers usually take on practical and emotional caring responsibilities that would normally be expected of an adult. This can often put a strain on other areas of their life and can potentially have a detrimental impact on their school work and limit their ability to spend

time with friends. TSwindon Carers Centre provides support and guidance to these young people, as well as an opportunity to have a break and enjoy fun activities away from day to day responsibilities.

The young carers were brought to the HQ of WHSmith to receive their books by the specialist support staff in schools who provide additional support to young carers across Swindon’s schools.

They were met by members

Health services in Swindon ask the public to choose the right service Swindonians are being asked to think carefully about alternative NHS services before calling 999 or going to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department.

Alternatives could include: • Using the Walk-in Centre at Swindon NHS Medical, Islington Street, open 8am-6pm, 7 days a week, 01793 607890 • The Urgent Care Centre at the Great Western Hospital site, open 24/7, 365 days a year • Visiting a pharmacist • Calling NHS 111 • Accessing the Swindon Children’s Clinic (from 3 months to 18 years), call 0300 111 0088 Your GP is usually your first port of call for on-going illnesses or injuries, except life-threatening emergencies.

However, remember a range of common illnesses and injuries can be treated at home simply with a well-stocked medicine cabinet and plenty of rest. You can also see a pharmacist for advice.

Your GP provides a range of services by appointment

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and will be able to assess your immediate needs. Your GP practice may also refer you into a specialist service if necessary.

Appointments may take place in the evenings and at weekends.

NHS 111 is the non-emergency number to speak to a highly trained adviser. Callers are asked a series of questions to assess their symptoms and immediately directed to the best medical care for them. The service can also help patients access the GP out-of-hours service to receive treatment overnight or arrange an urgent GP appointment. In the case of serious injury or illness, NHS 111 can despatch an ambulance to the patient or advise them on emergency options.

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones. For immediate life-threatening emergencies always dial 999.

For more information about looking after yourself this winter, visit www.nhs.uk

of staff as well as Justin Tomlinson MP who was on hand to thank the retailer for supporting such a worthy cause.

Justin said: “Young carers not only make an incredible contribution and sacrifice to their loved ones, but they also support their entire communities.

"I meet with lots of local businesses to press them on the importance of supporting local charities and recognising those who contribute to the

community in which they are based. Their donation today is a way of giving the youngsters a little treat and an acknowledgement of the appreciation and respect that we all have for them.”

Rachel Airey, Head of Children’s Books for WHSmith added, “As the UK’s leading bookseller and stationer, promoting literacy is a key priority for us and we are delighted to be supporting the Swindon young carers with a donation of books today.”

Last month Swindon School of Gymnastics sent 15 girls to the County Grading in Trowbridge.

There were four categories of Grade 4, 3, 2 and Pre-Level and the girls had to perform set moves/routines and gain a minimum of 42 marks to pass the Grade.

And all 10 of the Swindon gymnasts passed to the delight of coach Maddie Foster. All children were highly commended and nine achieved the Distinction status.

These 8/9 year olds didn’t look phased considering this was their first external competition outside of the Club.

Molly Smithson was 1st on the Vault, Bella Giles and Daisy Law tied for best score on the Bars. Phoebe Knott was the best on the balance beam and Molly also took top spot for her clean floor sequence.

Molly was given the overall Grade 4 Gold medal, Bella Giles took the Silver and a clean sweep as Bronze was given to Daisy Law. Next there were 9 entrants for Grade 2 and the same Trowbridge and Dorset opposition. Hettie Truman’s Bars and Vault was the best and Kira Waite was better on the Vault and Beam.

Swindon gymnasts make the grade

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Swindon Life Celebrating town living

EXCLUSIVE: Frank Turner is coming to Swindon Sheer Music are delighted to confirm the “worst-kept local secret” that the UK’s most prominent underground singer-songwriter will return to Swindon to perform at Level III on Saturday 20 January.

Frank made his name performing hundreds of shows in 200-capacity venues up and down the country including a number of Swindon performances, before migrating to theatres, festivals and stadiums across the

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UK, and around the world.

One of the most notable early shows was at the celebrated Victoria venue in Swindon, which was recorded by then landlord, David Young. This recording made its way to Frank’s label, and was subsequently released when the label re-issued a 10 year anniversary deluxe version of his debut album Sleep is for The Week last year.

Supporting Frank will be Sean McGowen, and then ex-Link reporter Mike Barham.

Tickets are priced at £25 and available exclusively via WeGotTickets.com.

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UK’s largest Punk and New Wave Exhibition livened up Dick Lovett As part of its 2017/18 tour, Off Beat Lounge brought the UK's largest Punk and New Wave exhibition to Dick Lovett's Mini in December.

VIP ticket holders were able to arrive earlier for an intimate Q&A session with photographers Denis O'Regan and Chalkie Davies. In a rather comical juxtaposition to the chic interior of the car showroom Both photographers hold impressive and extensive

resumes.

Denis has captured the likes of Billy Idol, Adam Ant, Patti Smith and Sid Vicious.

In a fond anecdote he recalled photographing Joe Strummer somewhat intoxcated on the street (pictured right).

On working as NME's staff photographer, Chalkie said: "I collected rock stars like other people collect stamps. I've remained friends with many of my clients."

Denis O’Regan

Keeping it in the family: Paul and Amy step back into The Brewer’s Arms

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

When Paul Studholme and his wife, Amy, took on the tenancy of The Brewer’s Arms at Wanborough earlier this year, it was like going home.

Paul grew up there with his adopted parents, and for the last decade the Arkell’s-owned pub has been run by Amy’s

parents, who decided to retire from the business in April.

Now the well-known Swindon couple (Amy is a talented singer and Paul has run a number of pubs, including Long’s Bar in Old Town), are adding their own ideas to the successful pub, updating the

Remaining undefeated through poetry

sport and asked if anyone had a basket ball.

I love that. There is one poem My friend, Brian, is in the that links to Brian and that is terminal cancer zone but he is “Invictus” which translated from handling it well.

Latin means “undefeated.” It Recently his family chipped was written by William Ernest together and bought him a Henley who lived just over the wheelchair made from the border in Gloucestershire. He latest lightweight material. You suffered from TB when he was could lift it with a finger. He is young and would have lost a so agile now he is talking of leg had he not fought against upper-body strength. Last week his doctor. A Scottish doctor, he texted the family and said Lister, subsequently saved his he was going to take up a new leg. The analogies in the poem Poetry column by Poetry Swindon’s Maurice Spillane

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decoration and menus just enough to offer a fresh feel to this popular country bar and grill, without abandoning what its regulars enjoy.

Paul said: “The Brewer’s has got a large garden and plenty of car parking.

“And it’s as big inside as out, with two bars and a small private dining room, so we’ve spent the

summer redecorating the pub and the gardens, hearing what our regulars think makes the pub special and offering some fresh ideas to keep them entertained.”

One of the new ideas is a modern take on the 1970s pub menu staple: Chicken in the basket. Paul added: “It was always on the menu of every pub when I was a kid, but it disappeared in the 1980s.

“We’re bringing it back, offering a modern take on classic bar meals where customers can choose one or more dish to make a meal, great to share with groups of friends and inexpensive too.

“It’s great to be back behind the bar at his childhood pub. It’s like life has gone full circle, but this time it’s with Amy, which is absolutely brilliant.”

were used by Churchill and Obama but the most well-known is Mandela who was inspired by the poem.

There is always a place in our lives for special poems for special occasions and “Invictus” is one for when you feel pressured, down, invaded by illness. Here are a few lines to get you started:

At Poetry Swindon we are already moving forward in 2018 after a really successful last year. If you are a poet come and join us. If you enjoy being entertained look out for us in schools, village halls, town events – we want to get poetry out of the closet and back to the heart.

l Open Mic - Monday 8 It matters not how strait the gate, January, 6pm at Richard How charged with Jefferies Museum punishments the scroll, l Beehive Pub – Tuesday 9 I am the master of my fate, January www.poetryswindon.org I am the captain of my soul.

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Swindon Spotlight

YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTH AHEAD In the community l Poetry Swindon is holding two open mic events in January to shake off the post-Christmas cobwebs. The first will be held at the Richard Jefferies Museum on Monday 8 January from 6pm and the second will be held at The Beehive pub on Tuesday 9 January.

Book now...

CIRCUS OF HORRORS BRING VOODOO TO SWINDON

After taking to the road over 22 years ago and touring all over the world, Circus of Horrors returns with its latest brand new incarnation Voodoo. This spectacular features an amazing amalgamation of bizarre & fantastic circus acts all woven into a sensational shock / horror story and the darkest of magic – taking the show to a whole new level, it’s driven by a mainly original soundscape & performed with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek, you’ll certainly Die Laughing. Annually, the Circus of Horrors plays over 100 UK theatres and this tour has expanded to take in festivals throughout the world. This is not the first time that The Circus of Horrors has created history, as it became the only circus ever to reach the finals of Britain’s Got Talent and the first circus to perform in London’s West End for over 100 years. Voodoo comes to the Wyvern on Sunday 28 January. Tickets £23.50 from www.swindontheatres.co.uk

HOT STEPPERS

Energetic dance company Hot Steppers will be coming to Swindon Arts Centre on Sunday 7 January. A mixture of dance styles from jazz, rock, contemporary, ballet, lyrical, hip hop and street dance.

Performing to old and new songs for all the family, each dancer has their moment to shine. Tickets at £13.50 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

BRENDAN COLE

Strictly’s Brendan Cole takes to the stage to wow audiences with his latest spectacular production, All Night Long at The Wyvern on Saturday 20 January. He is joined by guest dancers, a leading lady and a 14-piece band and singers for a mix of dance magic. Tickets £41 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

Venues

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

BUSWELL

Shaun Buswell returns to Swindon Arts Centre on Saturday 13 January after his recent Orchestra Challenges to release his album Stitched Shoes & An Irish Wristwatch through Secret Chord Records.

He'll perform the entire album live for the first time with 20 musicians, playing 144 different parts in 45 minutes. www.swindontheatres.co.uk

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

l Sheer Music are proud to announce Frank Turner as their first show in 2018 at Level 3 on Saturday 20 January. Support comes from label mate, Sean McGowan and local scene hero, Mike Barham - probably the tallest musician in the Wiltshire area. Doors 7pm 7.30 - 8pm - Mike Barham - UK 8.10 - 8.55 - Seán McGowan 9.15 - 10.45 - Frank Turner. l Swindon Film Society present Nepalese film The Black Hen at Swindon Arts Centre on Wednesday 17 January. In a remote Nepalese village, Prakash and Kiran, two 12year old inseparable friends, despite belonging to different castes, decide to raise a hen to earn some money by selling its eggs… Tickets cost £9 and the doors open at 7.45pm. l Actor, host and broadcaster Craig Charles is one of the UK’s most beloved Funk and Soul DJ’s and he is bringing his legendary Funk & Soul Club Night to Swindon in the new year. From Robot Wars to Red Dwarf, Craig has now grounded himself as a Funk & Soul icon after 10 years of broadcasting on BBC 6 Music with a primetime Saturday night show. Craig is coming to Swindon’s MECA venue on Saturday 20 January. swindonlink.com n January 2018

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Swindon Lives IN CONVERSATION WITH: Elijah Price

By Ben Fitzgerald Inspirational 13-year-old Elijah Price, was one of those who took part in the sponsored swim - managing to complete an incredible 100 lengths over the course of an hour and a half.

And what makes his feat more remarkable is that the youngster, who was born with a bleed on the brain, has had to endure numerous life saving operations since birth – most recently in April.

He explained: “I have been working with one of the coaches at the David Lloyd gym, Alfie Smith, to help build up my fitness in the pool.

"Then I got to hear about this charity swim and I thought I would give it a go. I love helping other people less fortunate than myself. I suppose it’s because I have been through so much myself that I understand how important it is to reach out and help other people.

He explained that he originally intended to complete 80 lengths of the pool but decided to push himself further than originally thought possible.

“I knew that I had some more energy left so I decided to go for it. It was

great that my coach Alfie got in the pool to swim alongside me to keep me going and to make sure that I was safe, he was brilliant.”

During the hour and a half that Elijah was swimming, he explained that the thought that he was helping to improve the lives of the children in Kenya was the one thing that kept him going.

“I was determined to do my best for them – so I was not going to give up.”

Elijah was born with a very rare condition, Hydrocephalus - leading to an excessive accumilation of fluid in the brain. As a result Elijah has had to endure five highly complex brain surgeries a King's College Hospital in London to alleviate his conditions.

His mother Jeanet explained: "With each surgery, there are no guarantees what the result will be. It is something that we have learned to live with and it means that we value every day that Elijah is with us. He is just one of those kids who refuses to be bound by the circumstances that have been thrown at him."

As a result of the surgery that he has endured, Elijah lost some of his memory, setting him back a few

years in his school work. However, thanks to his huge self belief and incredible determination, he is rapidly catching up.

Alfie explained that his condition had given him the drive to reach out to others.

"I have ended up spending a lot of time in hospital and when I'm there I like to talk to the other patients there and it makes me feel better to cheer them up."

And this most recent charity event for the Younite Foundation has inspired him to continue to work for others and seek out future charity events that he can take part in.

Sponsored swim raises vital funds for children

More than 50 people threw themselves into a charity swim over the weekend to raise vital funds for Kenyan youngsters.

Those taking part were challenged to complete as many lengths of the 25m pool at the David Lloyd Leisure Centre as they could manage for the Younite Foundation – a registered charity set up in 2016 to help young people in Swindon and Wiltshire as well as projects in Kenya.

And with money already topping the £1,000 mark and charity money

from another 45 participants yet to be collected, organisers have hailed the event a huge success.

Organiser James Phipps, who swam 50 lengths, said: “It was amazing to see so many people give up their time, swimming over 25 miles combined, and a few weeks before Christmas to help raise money and awareness for people less fortunate than themselves.

Some of the people there like Elijah were truly inspirational and it makes all the hard work organising it worth it.

Thank you to Copy Colour and David Lloyd for all their support in making this event happen.”

Funds raised will go towards securing fresh water supplies for the Melon Mission – a school in Nakuru, Kenya, which looks after more than 450 children, providing them with food, shelter, and an education.

The water supplies are a vital resource because there has been a drought in Kenya and water has to be purchased for delivery. swindonlink.com n January 2018

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An amazing year at Studley Grange Butterfly Park

Studley Grange Butterfly World, Farm Park and Craft Village have had an amazing year here they reflect on a very busy 2017.

What a year 2017 has been!

We had a lot of arrivals this year, some were born on the farm and some found their new home at Studley Grange.

Like the adorable Tenrecs who arrived back in March. Tenrecs look a lot like hedgehogs and were soon fondly nicknamed ‘the Clangers’.

As Easter approached there were many births around the farm; lambs, kids and of course lots of chicks. In June our new brooder area was completed giving visitors the opportunity to learn about the whole lifecycle of the farm's poultry.

We were also very excited to welcome two gorgeous Dexter Calves, the first to be born on the farm. The summer months were busy, busy, busy! Not only was it the school holidays but we also had more arrivals, a new exhibit and even a

birthday! As well as more lambs being born we also introduced you to Dennis and Elvis, two male Alpacas who joined our females, we rescued more ex-battery chickens and then opened the walk-through aviary, allowing you to get up close with free flying birds.

We had a special celebration come August as Soft Play at Studley Grange celebrated

their first birthday, complete with a delicious cake made at Cake Creations.

Once the celebrations were over the much anticipated donkeys, Matrix and Rabbit, joined us from The Donkey Sanctuary, Dorset; another first for the farm. Matrix and Rabbit were shortly followed by 10 very cute Oxford Sandy and Black piglets and then we

said hello to another pig as Ruby the Gloucester Old Spot found a home with us. 2017 was a full and exciting year and there is lots more to come!

So all that’s left is for us to wish you a happy 2018 from everyone at Studley Grange Butterfly World, Farm Park and Craft Village. We look forward to seeing you in the coming year.

Paper: Drawings, prints and works on paper from the Swindon Collection

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

In June last year, Swindon’s impressive collection of Modern British Art received a significant addition with an anonymous donation of fifty works of prints, paintings and drawings, in appreciation of Meryl Ainslie’s services to the Arts.

The works were given to the Museum and Art Gallery to enhance the already established collection and as an expression of support for the continued work towards a proposed new Museum and Art Gallery for Swindon.

A selection of the works were on display in ‘The Lie of the Land', and then a large selection of the remaining gifts were displayed in ‘Paper: Drawings, prints and works on paper from the Swindon Collection’, an exhibition which 24

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opened on Wednesday 29 November and runs through till Saturday 14 April.

The exhibition features some fascinating examples of modern art. It includes drawings, watercolours and prints by modern and contemporary artists and demonstrates the huge range of effects that can be created using paper and imagination.

Works featured include those by Allen Jones, Nicholas Monro, Michael Ayrton, Basil Beattie and Katherine Jones.

These are displayed alongside prints by Joe Tilson, Eduardo Paolozzi and Cecil Collins, and drawings by George Clausen, Gwen John and Michael Craig-Martin.

Alongside ‘Paper’, the museum is also exhibiting works by important local artist, Janet Boulton. Known internationally for her watercolours and paper relief works, Boulton was born in

Swindon and attended the Swindon School of Art and Design. She went on to study at Camberwell School of Art, before returning to work as an art teacher at Swindon College, Commonweal School and Hreod Parkway.

In 1977, Swindon Museum and Art Gallery hosted an exhibition of her work titled ‘Windows and Reflections’ so this is a welcome return to Swindon for Janet Boulton’s thoughtful artistic perspective.

Swindon is increasingly known for its modern British art collection and Boulton’s own work embodies the innovation and distinct artistic voice which has characterised recent British art, while providing a subtle counterpoint to its more strident tendencies. It is appropriate that in 2017, to accompany this exhibition, Swindon has acquired three of the paintings originally displayed in her 1977 show.

Janet Boulton’s 1977 exhibition

Diana Villa La Pietra

Katherine Jones

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Review: I was Hooked by Peter Pan

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

The Wyvern Theatre was transformed into a fantastical world last Christmas, taking the Darling children from their nursery into the wonders of Neverland. Flown away by our narrator, played by Danielle Black, the audience take off to the second star on the right and straight on ’til morning to encounter Indians, The Lost Boys, and Captain Hook’s crew of pirates.

Originating from J. M. Barrie’s novel, the storyline infuses modern twists on this classic tale which played on Disney’s animated 1953 cartoon and the later 2003 film adaptation.

The production reintroduces favourite characters such as Captain Hook (EastEnder’s very own Adam Woodyatt), Peter Pan (Ryan Anderson), Tinkerbell (Abigail Matthews), Wendy (Lucy Pollard), and Smee

(Anthony Lawrence), who are all embodied by animated and thrilling performances.

On Tuesday night’s opening show, playing both Mr Darling and Captain Hook, Adam Woodyatt entered to a roaring crowd and seemed most comfortable swapping the East End for the stage. Accompanied by his side kick Smee, Woodyatt and Lawrence played off each other and the audience terrifically which left the Wyvern Theatre in hysterics (myself included).

Peter Pan wouldn’t be complete without a tribe of Indians and The Lost Boys. Although the youngest of the cast, these were no amateurs. Lucy Pollard as Wendy executed a phenomenal solo number, whilst The Lost Boys and Indians ignited the stage through Damian Czarnecki’s dance choreography. Not forgetting John and Michael Darling, these two chaps illustrated British humour at its

best.

This production is the epitome of family fun and entertainment. Smee and Tinkbell were a credit to this by the way in which they engaged with the children and adults, in keeping with the storyline whilst also blending in pop culture and current affairs.

As true to form, Peter Pan was packed with classic panto tropes from cream pies to the face, slapstick silliness, PG innuendos, and spectacular stage sets. The most enthralling aspect of all these, as the screaming children would suggest, was the audience participation.

From sing-a-longs and throwing rock sponges, to booing Hook and shouting “he’s behind you”, the evening was a laugha-minute and fun-filled adventure.

Something great is brewing over at the Tuppenny

It’s been a whole year since Old Town’s unique beacon of craft beer and fermented excellence flung open its doors to enthusiastic customers.

The Tuppenny, at 58-59 Devizes Road is the brainchild of Jamie Stapleton and Linda Gulliford who were determined to create a welcoming, independent establishment catering for a growing interest in beer, wines and spirits from smaller producers.

Jamie explained: “One of the most heartening things was that on our first birthday celebration, on 23 November, it was great to see so many people there supporting us.

“The place was packed. Linda and I both realised how many new friends we have made since The Tuppenny opened.

It hasn’t all been plain sailing - but our customers believe in us and what we are trying to achieve and it is their support that has enabled us to thrive in our first year.”

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Jamie Stapleton and Linda Gulliford at the Tuppenny

Jamie’s business partner Linda explained: “One of the things that people say to us all the time is: ‘When’s that beer going on?’, we have a quick turnover of lots of different beers. We have showcased more than 70 different beers here in a year and that’s just the draft ones!

“At any one time we have more than 30 different beers available here at any one time. And we try to ensure that we cover a range of different styles.”

Jamie and Linda are

constantly on the lookout for new and exciting brews to bring to their customers and often attend industry exhibitions which are attended by dozens small independent producers. Linda has been working in the industry since she was 18 and understands the pub trade inside out.

“It’s all about people really that’s the best part of the job.”

Jamie, a former sound engineer, has always been a self-confessed beer obsessive.

“I think it’s important to do

a job that you are passionate about - we both took a risk, but after the first year we can say that it was definitely the right thing to do. Our customers can see that we have a vision for the type of establishment that we are trying to create and that we really believe in what we are trying to achieve.”

Jamie and Linda plan to expand on what they have achieved with the Tuppenny so far by extending their range in the New Year. They are installing a new six beer range to allow them to host a constantly changing range of six exciting guest craft beers of different styles. And the Tuppenny will also always stock a core range of lager, pale ale, cider and stout as a permanent fixture as well as one real ale. For more information about forthcoming events at the Tuppenny, follow them on Facebook or log in to their webpage www. thetuppenny.com

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Review: Bardolino by Marco Pierre White

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

18 Wood St, Swindon SN1 4AB Now completely immersed within winter, Team Ocelot fancied a hearty lunch. So it seemed fitting that we check out Marco Pierre White’s place as we’d been meaning to for quite some time.

Aptly situated on Swindon’s up and coming Wood Street, this swanky Italian boasts a chic interior with smart-causal dining vibes.

My first thought after I technically suggested the idea, was that we should probably wait until after payday. It is at the end of the day a Marco Pierre White restaurant, and this guy’s food can’t be cheap.

I was wrong.

The most expensive thing on

the menu was Ocelot Editor Jamie’s burger (£12.75) and it was bloody huge (and juicey).

Unfortunately fresh out of the salmon I immediately wanted, I went for a panick pizza: Ragù alla bolognese (£11.95). This essentially is bolognese on pizza. Don’t get me wrong, this is two of my favourite things combined, with some rather hot chillies on top.

Ocelot Deputy Editor, Ben, went in for the mushroom cannelloni (£11.50). As it turns out this is one of the louder meals on the menu, taking approximately 4 minutes to stop bubbling away. Naturally, this entertained Ben greatly.

Surprisingly, the starters actually impressed us all the most. I really don’t care for

onion rings - they are overrated - but Bardolino’s Parmesan onion rings, with mustard mayo (£4.50) changed that up for me. They were ridiculously cripsy and upon biting into them didn’t violate my mouth by seeping out oil (the worst), and at not one point did the whole onion come out of the batter to burn my chin.

The gents’ favourite went to the Parmesan pommes frites, with truffle mayo (£3.95). I don’t think anyone can get overly excited by mayo, but Marco’s made something magical and garlicky here.

Next time we’ll be taking a taxi to get some of the lunchtime bottomless belinnis.

Recipe: sausage and Jerusalem artichoke bake Assemble a whole meal using just one tray. Ideally your tray should be a roasting tin that can go both on the stove and in the oven. The ones with rims are best since foil crimps tightly over them – the tighter the foil, the quicker the contents will bake. rapeseed or sunflower oil, for frying 8 pork sausages 1 litre hot chicken stock 600g Jerusalem artichokes, scrubbed clean and cut in half or in wedges, depending on size 80g Puy or dark green lentils, rinsed in cold water, then drained leaves from 4 large thyme sprigs 1 tsp fennel seeds, crushed ¼ tsp dried chilli flakes pinch of smoked paprika (optional) 1 Savoy or January King cabbage, outer leaves removed, cut into wedges with the root intact salt and black pepper

Heat the oven to 180°C/ Gas 4. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a flame- and ovenproof roasting tin (or use a frying pan and transfer the cooked sausages to a roasting tin).

Fry the sausages, turning now and then to brown them on all sides, for about 10 minutes. Add 800ml of stock.

Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

Uncover the roasting tin and add the Jerusalem artichokes, lentils, thyme, fennel seeds, chilli flakes and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.

Put the tin back into the oven (still uncovered) for 15 minutes or so. Add the cabbage, wedging it between the other ingredients in the pan.

Pour over the rest of stock then return the tin to the oven and cook uncovered for a further 10–15 minutes, until the lentils, artichokes and cabbage are tender. www.riverford.co.uk/recipes

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Talking politics South Swindon MP Robert Buckland (Con) One of the main problems affecting the lives and well-being of older people is loneliness.

Human beings are social animals, but the prospect of having hours and even days without talking to another living soul is being faced every day by many of our older Swindon residents.

As part of my campaign to tackle loneliness, I held a Loneliness Summit with Swindon Seniors Forum back in July. The event brought together key local organisations engaged in tackling the issue in a bid to make a real difference to what is an ever-growing problem.

I am in the process of organising a second event along with Swindon Seniors Forum. I will be inviting

speakers from Parliament including Seema Kennedy MP, Chair of the Commission on Loneliness set up by the late Jo Cox MP. With 31,000 pensioners in Swindon, almost 15,000 of them aged 75 or over, the discussion around how to provide the greatest and most effective level of support is crucial.

There was welcome news for Swindon recently as Nationwide announced that they have teamed up with Swindon Borough Council in a community lead housing project, which could see more than 200 homes built on the Oakfield Campus site.

This multi-million-pound housing regeneration is great news for the town. Oakfield campus is a

Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr David Renard (Con) This year looks set to be another busy year for the council as we continue to push forward a number of big projects and progress the pledges we have made to the people of Swindon.

Over the next couple of months one of the most exciting developments the town has ever seen will move closer when detailed plans are submitted for the £270m indoor ski slope, hotel, cinema and restaurants at North Star and construction could start later this year.

I cannot emphasise enough how much of a positive effect this regeneration scheme will have on the town in terms of the additional boost it will give to our local economy. But as big as the new indoor ski slope will be, it is not the summit of our ambition. In the spring we should know whether the trust has been successful in our bid for a new Museum and Art Gallery and alongside this Council officers are busily working up plans to breathe new life into the Kimmerfields area of the town centre.

Work to transform the key gateway of Wellington Street, which links the railway station to the town centre, will get underway in the next few months and the redevelopment of Falcon House will be a visible symbol of change on the town centre skyline. Of course with Swindon set to grow considerably over the coming years it is imperative we have the right infrastructure to support this growth which is why millions of pounds have been spent upgrading our existing road network and the improvements at Junction 16 are a great example.

We will also be making big changes within the Council, ensuring that those who are able to use digital services do so.

I wish you all a very prosperous and happy 2018.

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brownfield site, which has been unoccupied for seven years and is ideal for the building of much-needed homes in our town.

I am pleased that Nationwide have said that they will work with the local community to decide on the number and mix of properties to be built and would encourage as many people as possible to register their interest and take part in the consultation, which can be found here: https://www.nationwide. co.uk/about/why-choosenationwide/social-investment/ oakfield Few families have not been touched by cancer, and mine is no exception, so I was pleased to support an event held in Parliament

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson (Con) Last month I attended a Dog’s Trust event in Parliament, highlighting the puppy smuggling trade.

Unscrupulous breeders take advantage of issues with the Pet Travel Scheme.

As a result, underage puppies are being illegally imported into Great Britain from Central and Eastern Europe to be sold on to unsuspecting members of the public.

I was appalled to learn about the conditions the puppies have to endure whilst being smuggled, travelling for up to 29 hours in cramped cages, with little water, and no food or toilet breaks.

The Dogs Trust and the Puppy Pilot Scheme do amazing work to treat the puppies quickly, and are successful at saving 94% of them. Puppy smuggling is cruel and unacceptable, and Dogs Trust have my complete support in working to end it.

The Government has recently passed a raft of legislation to improve animal welfare - such as increasing sentences for animal cruelty and banning the ivory trade. Last month I nominated SMASH (Swindon Mentoring and Self Help) for a Kids Count Inspiration Award, and I was thrilled to present them with Highly Commended in the ‘Best Contribution by a Community Group’ category.

Having worked closely with SMASH, I have seen first-hand the important work they do to support young people who may be struggling with their personal circumstances. The Kids Count Inspiration Awards honour the unsung heroes who work tirelessly to improve the lives of young people, and I felt this was a fantastic opportunity to make sure the vital work done by SMASH was recognised. I will continue to support SMASH, and work with the charity to help it grow and encourage more people to get involved and lend their support as well – so that more young people can receive the support they need to flourish and fulfil their potential.

recently organised by charity Cancer52, an alliance of nearly 100 charities united by their vision of a better future for everyone affected by rare and less common cancers. At the event, I learned more about rare and less common cancers. These cancers together account for more than half of all UK cancer deaths – more than the ‘big four’ (breast, prostate, lung and bowel cancer).

The Government is committed to improving cancer outcomes throughout the UK and recognises that investing in research is vital in order to increase survival rates.

The UK is a world leader in health research and I am pleased that the science budget of £4.7 billion will be protected in real terms in this Parliament.

Cllr Jim Grant, Swindon Labour Group Leader One of the biggest sources of frustration from residents about Swindon is our town centre. It was recently announced that Swindon Borough Council has pulled out of a Town Centre Development Agreement with Muse, a national developer. The Labour Group had called on the Council to do this as Muse have done nothing to regenerate our town centre.

The Conservative Cabinet have said they will be consulting on increasing car parking charges in the Town Centre. In the large Multi-Story Town Centre car parks, charges will be increased by £1 an hour. The Tory Cabinet have also decided to keep the Council’s town centre regeneration quango, Forward Swindon, despite the company achieving nothing to improve the town centre.

Finally, the Council has said they will now be designing another masterplan for a section of the Town Centre. Rather than getting on with constructing new buildings, the Council have decided to spend further Council Tax payers money on consultants.

So what would Labour do differently?

Firstly, we would scrap Forward Swindon, and would get the Council to lead on town centre regeneration. Labour supports the bid for a new Museum & Art Gallery in the Town Centre and if this bid successfully gets Heritage Lottery Funding we would be looking to capitalise this with further redevelopment in that side of the town centre. Labour would also be looking to build more residential properties in the Town Centre. And most importantly, we would look to build on Swindon’s railway heritage, redeveloping the Mechanics and Locarno and bringing the declining Milton Road baths back to its past glories.

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