March 2009 Swindon Link

Walk or run around Lydiard Park in aid of breast cancer research with the Mad March Hare - see page 30

Find out more on page 5

Celebrating with a tasty curry for charity.

Photos on page 2 No. 322 March 2009 • Circulation 27,000

the positive newsforce in Swindon

We remember Charlie

Oakhurst wins its school

YOUR CHILD DESERVES THE BEST Excellent standards of Education and Daycare at

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NURSERY & PRE-PREP SCHOOL Children celebrating where the school will be built later this year - see page 17

Charlie Jarvis was loved by so many. We remember her on page 10

Culture in Swindon Geoff Reid of talkswindon. org says that it’s not recognised on page 7 Mike Pringle of Swindon Cultural Partnership says the town has it in spades on pages 23 & 24

What’s your view?

Appeal to keep North Swindon clean Irresponsible dog owners are not picking up after their pooches and other residents are angry. See page 9 Use the dog bins say responsible dog owners

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

Marking 30 years of SwindonLink with cashback curries

With the Bombay Lounge restaurant at Peatmoor, we organised two great curry nights in aid of four charities to mark three decades of The Link magazine. The evenings also celebrated the first year of charity commitment by Hanif Robani, owner of the Bombay Lounge, who has donated £15,000 from profits made at twice weekly charity nights to a wide range of community organisations in Swindon.

Pictured below are some of the supporters who enjoyed a curry night on 9 February. In April, we’ll feature another great evening on 17 February.

Link Ad Jan 09 print.pdf

Karen Johnson and Sarah Chilvers

9/1/09

12:56:20

Sheriden and Kevin Fisher

Hanif presents a cheque to Jane Kendall of the Prospect Hospice

Paul Watermayer, teacher at Peatmoor School, and his wife Claire

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Kyla Tate, second left, picked the Bombay for her fourteenth birthday party with from left, Lauren Tate, Viki Smith, Frankie Kimber, Kirby Prowting, mum Andrea Tate

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Hanif with the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline table, from left, Jess Howell, Kaysha McGiffin, Audrey Trevett, Gin McGiffin

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The charities being supported by the two curry nights are Age Concern Swindon, Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis Moving Soon Appeal, The Rainbow Club for bereaved children

DO YOU SUFFER WITH CONSTIPATION? FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE AND BLOATED?

Dr J. Ochoa at The Swindon Medical Research Centre is looking for people To participate in a research study testing a well known over the counter treatment for chronic constipation

You could be eligible to participate in this research if you are Male or Female, aged 18 years or over and suffering from constipation The research study will take place at Swindon Medical Research Centre, Abbey Meads Practice You will be paid for your time and travel expenses For further information, call 01793 726748 or email: drug.trials@nhs.net All studies undertaken have been reviewed by an Independent Ethics Research Committee

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 2

Final v1 11 June 2007 Advert 1 Ethics Ref:07/H1204/95

13/2/09 14:44:29

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Who’s your community champion?

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Mayor wants to know of Swindon’s special people

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There are people in the town who make a valuable commitment to their community, helping in a huge range of ways - as an individual assisting another or contributing to a group or organisation.

The fact that they don’t receive enough recognition is something Mayor of Swindon Steve Wakefield wants to put right with his new Pride of Swindon Awards.

He’s calling on readers to nominate people who have gone the extra mile to help others. It could be a child or an adult who has displayed remarkable courage, somebody who has gone out of his or her way to improve your area, an inspiring teacher, an organiser who keeps a team going, or a neighbour who is always who commit time and effort, but don’t expect reward,” said coun there to help.

“There are so many people Wakefield. “But I want them to be recognised for their unselfish commitment to enriching other people’s lives and to making Swindon a better place.”

He pointed out that there is no Marie Curie Cancer Care’s Great limit to the number of people who Daffodil Appeal is the charity’s receive the award. “This is not a biggest annual fundraising cam- competition to find one person who paign, and volunteers are still des- is better than another. If an indiperately needed to sell daffodils at vidual deserves recognition, then these venues in March: we should acknowledge them.”

Friday 6th: ASDA Walmart Award winners will receive a Saturday 7th: Sainsburys Bridge- railway style enamel lapel badge mead depicting Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the inspiration of modern Saturday 14th: Designer Outlet Swindon. and Morrisons Haydon Wick To nominate somebody, the maySaturday 21st: Swindon Centre or is asking you to write no more Friday 27th & Saturday 28th: than 250 words about the person, West Swindon Centre and explaining why they should be conSainsburys Stratton sidered for the award. Include the Every night Marie Curie Nurses name, address and contact details care for people with terminal ill- of the person nominated as well as nesses in their own homes, enabling yours. Nominees must live or work them to spend their last days in within the borough of Swindon at the comfort of their own familiar the time of nomination.

Entries should be sent by 27 surroundings.

To coordinate a collection or just March to: Pride of Swindon Awards, offer a couple of hours, call Clair Swindon Advertiser, 100 Victoria Cusack on 0117 924 7275 or mail: Road, Swindon SB1 3BE or via: www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk clair.cusack@mariecurie.org.uk

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd Providing mortgage services for the community since 1987

March is a good time for a mortgage review

Recession on West Forum agenda

Swindon Borough councillors on the West Swindon Forum want to hear from residents as to what more the council should be doing to help reduce the effects of the economic downturn, at the next meeting which takes place on Monday 9 March, 7.30pm, in the community suite at Link Centre.

David Rudland and Bob Fisher from Swindon Council will also attend to report on progress at Shaw Forest Park and talk about the project to build a natural water filter treatment reed bed similar to one created at the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, Slimbridge. See story on page 13.

The forum is open to all residents to raise and discuss community issues with the eight councillors representing the three wards in West Swindon.

Green living roadshows arrive in town

Living a greener more eco-lifestyle is as important as it ever was and a travelling exhibition around Wiltshire is providing a wealth of free information and tips on how families and individuals can really make a difference to the planet, their pocket and future generations.

• Advice on loAlthough the core cal walks, nature theme of the event reserves and conis climate change, servation projects the Roadshow orthat promote health ganised by Wiltshire through enjoyment Wildlife Trust, pulls of the natural envitogether a wide ronment; range of environ• Information about mental issues to local food from local draw in all memsuppliers; bers of the public, • Samples of enwhether they have never considered their impact vironmentally friendly cleaning on the environment before or are products and cosmetics, and solar energy gadgets; already very green.

Emma Harrington, the trust’s • Advisors from the Energy Savenvironmental action team project ing Trust and WRAP (Waste and officer, said, “we’re putting together Resources Action Programme); some really great ideas about how • Energy conservation suggestions you can help to curb climate change. for the home; Our aim is not to alarm or lecture • Advice about reducing waste, anyone, but simply to get out and including composting, above. support people where they live.”

The roadshow will be in Swindon The roadshow will include: in March: • A demonstration of the Wiltshire Sunday 8th, 11am - 2pm. Steam Green Map, an online resource Museum for promoting and accessing local Wednesday 25th, 10am - 2pm environmental initiatives; Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon • Stalls from local green groups; www.wiltshirewildlife.org

We could put a spring in your step We may be able to find you a lower interest rate.

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

H0096015

772779

www.swindonlink.com

advertising Enquiries Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for April advertisements: 5 March “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 Copy for May: 8 April printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks.

Printed by pcp, Telford photographs require similar authority The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers

Editorial copy date for April: 10 March Published: 28 March

13/2/09 11:05:16

swindonlink.com • March 2009

5

Laugh in the face of superstition on Red Nose Day Spring is here. Shake off the gloom and do something funny for money On Friday 13 March you could arm yourself with lucky charms, tuck the neighbour’s black cat under your arm, keep everything crossed, turn round three times and spit... or, think yourself lucky and have a great laugh with Comic Relief.

Red Nose 09 T-shirts have been vourite is the little chap with glasses; nerable and disadvantaged people This year, there’s absolutely no in the UK and Africa. excuse for forgetting the date, as designed by Stella McCartney and he looks a kindly soul.

T-shirts are on sale at TK Maxx “Doing Something Funny for the nation is urged once again to promise to be the most stylish charMoney is a great idea too; we are and noses at Sainsbury’s. pick their noses together and Do ity wear ever created.

There are lots of ideas of the kind “If ever the country needed to all dying to shake off a little bit of Something Funny for Money. For the first time since its launch in 1985, have a laugh it’s now,” says Gavin the gloom and doom around and let of funny things you could do for Comic Relief has released three dif- and Stacey star, Rob Brydon. “And rip. If there is a day, Friday March money in the Red Nose Day fundraising kit, including how to buy a ferent Red Noses, so everyone can what better way to do that than by 13th is it!”

Comic Relief spends all the limited edition Red Nose Red and picking your nose. My personal fapick their favourite. money raised from Red Nose Day Red Nose White wine at: www.rednoseday.com to give a helping hand to poor, vul-

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Des, Lucy and Ryan Clarke from Shaw were already prepared for Comic Relief when the big snow came down on 9 February

Cre8 hair and Beauty are proud to announce the opening of the Skin and Hair Loss Clinic.

Our specially trained La Biosthetician will answer those all important questions regarding any of the following issues: sudden or gradual hair loss; itchy or dry scalp; over oily hair but dry scalp; limp and lifeless hair; fine and deep lines in the skin, to name but a few. This is all possible through the latest microscopy technology, enabling to actually see the facts with no guess work.

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A wide range of beauty treatments are now available ie: eyelash extensions, perming, tinting, hot stone massage and detox body treatments.

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

Book a library visit from an award winning service

Residents to leave Shaw community home

People living in Shaw have expressed worry that residents of a supported housing scheme for a group of adults with special needs are Volunteers who ensure Swindon Library Service goes out to its customto be dispersed after their care provider United Response gave notice ers if they’re unable to get to a library were recognised at an Excellence to Swindon Council that it would not be continuing its contract after Awards event for Swindon Council workers in late January. mid-April.

The free Home Library service is available to anybody who can't visit The three bungalows in Angus Inspection. "Social care officers from a library due to disability or illness, or those who would find it difficult to carry books. Arrangements are flexible and it is possible to use home Close owned by Westlea Housing adult services are carrying out full Association, have been home for reviews with each individual and library short term or seasonally.

Anyone requesting the service is visited by a member of the library 12 adults and their carers since the their families to establish what is staff to put together a personal profile detailing reading preferences and mid-1980s. However, the build- best for their future care. Some have any other requests such as DVDs and audio books. Volunteers visit every ings are no longer regarded fit for expressed the wish to continue to three weeks with new supplies. They work in pairs so the user will see purpose and Swindon Adult Ser- live together, others are interested vices are discussing new housing in living elsewhere. We need to at least one familiar face in the event of a person being unavailable.

To sign up to use Home Library, or to become a volunteer, call Debs arrangements with residents and find what is appropriate for each resident." their families.

Osorio on 707127 or mail: dosorio@swindon.gov.uk Coun Renard added that alCouncillor David Renard, cabinet Home Library organiser Debs Osorio, centre, with volunteers Barbara Fenn member for health, housing and though United Response's contract and Graheme Franklin adult social care, said the Angus ends in April, council officers are Close facility is old fashioned in discussing whether they will condesign and provision and would not tinue to run the facility in the short meet current standards set down term until alternative accommodaby the Commission for Social Care tion is found for the residents.

Annual meeting for kids’ project The Lower Farm Children’s Project holds its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 4 March, 2pm, Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane.

All members are invited to attend and anyone wishing to stand for a committee post should call Andrea Hirsch on 771080.

Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group Annual Ball Saturday 21 March, DeVere Hotel 4 course meal including disco, raffle and auction hosted by patron Howard Taylor of GWR FM Call 541464 for tickets at £45 Raising £16,000 to fund speech and language therapy for children with Down’s Syndrome in the SN postcode area

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

7

Has Swindon lost its voice?

Geoff Reid of www.talkswindon.org reflects on the condition of Swindon ‘Swindon’ is often the butt of cruel jokes and it’s true to say that our town is an easy target for comics, though in the same way that a teenager with acute acne often attracts the attention of the school bully. really important to the cultural Swindon may not have acne, landscape and emotional wellbut it has picked away at itself being of the town and ought to for so long that it’s now a jigbe a proud feature on the public saw puzzle of badly fitting and face Swindon shows the world. mismatched pieces - architecturThey are the pins that hold the ally, culturally and politically - a cultural canvass in place and an picture that hides so much that essential ingredient in the glue is good. of social cohesion.

Swindon was at the centre Now, when many of us are of the 19th Century industrial tightening our belts and pressing revolution and in its wake, the our noses to the grindstone, is a heart of a social revolution. The good time to ask where SwinMechanics’ Institution in the The old and new: the derelict Mechanics’ building don’s real identity is. If ordinary railway village helped GWR and the DMJ tower people say nothing, the town workers to become the best educated manual workers in the world. planning room, but our council just will continue to be defined as a commercial milking parlour which Through it Swindon was the first wishes it would go away.

British town to offer a book lending I don’t expect the newly regen- cries: ‘Come to Swindon, it’s lovely; library to its workers. erated town centre to live up to bring your cash!’

What to do? We need an hon Closeby the Medical Fund Clinic the hype. Key cultural aspects of and hospital in Park House became the scheme appear to have been est discussion on what is valued the model for the NHS in 1945. dropped - an art gallery and a mu- in Swindon. We should share our So how did we go from a progres- seum have disappeared from the experiences, our opinions and sive town to a laughing stock? plans. CABE, the Commission for knowledge of Swindon’s ‘fiddly My explanation begins with Architecture and the Built Environ- bits’- what they are, where they are the 1970’s town centre regenera- ment, describe parts of the town and how we access them.

We must define our cultural astion, when short sighted political centre scheme as ‘ungainly, visually vision, commercial pressure from disconcerting, responding poorly to pirations, or they will continue to large retailers and a generalised the form and layout of the proposed be defined and delivered to us by disregard of Swindon’s industrial development’ and of having ‘banal politicians and retail giants.

Currently Swindon Link magaheritage led to large areas being architecture.’ levelled and replaced by ugly conI think Swindon will end up with zine is the only printed media to crete buildings. an identikit town centre like so We’re now promised that the many others. And I doubt that the 21st Century regeneration will do town will become a destination of choice because of its special ‘retail offer.’

If Swindon stands apart, it will be because its inhabitants are doing things here which visitors want to see or be a part of - music, sport, food, art, performance art, heritage and other things within our local environment.

The proposed Modus redevelopment in the town centre Our town has much to repair our poor image. many hidden gems, strengths, It’s even suggested that Swindon qualities and talents, but we should become the ‘Sheffield of don’t have a clear picture of their the South.’ entirety. Swindon Council ruth I cannot see this aspiration bear- lessly promotes the parts that are ing fruit. Sheffield preserved and profitable to them - politically and renovated its heritage buildings financially - but it’s not particularly and infrastructure when it regen- interested in the ‘fiddly bits’ done by erated itself. Many of Swindon’s small groups and individuals. best features have been forever lost, These can be defined as the musiwhilst the mighty and iconic Me- cal gigs, artists exhibiting in out of chanics’ Institution, once a temple the way places like the Beehive pub, of self-improvement, now stands the Artsite group, heritage bodies derelict. like the New Mechanics’ Trust, the One has to wonder if Swindon Richard Jefferies Society and the Council and its partners have learnt various literary communities. anything from the mistakes made 40 It also includes all those people years ago in their rush to replace the who ask inconvenient questions town centre with something newer of the council and those who have and shinier. withdrawn from civic life because The Mechanics’ Institution is they are too often ignored. the elephant in the regeneration Such groups and individuals are

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provide space for this kind of critical discussion whilst others relentlessly talk-up the regeneration plans and play down residents’ concerns.

And the only place for a genuine, open, ongoing and unmoderated discussion and exchange of ideas is: www.talkswindon.org Isn’t it about time Swindon people gave voice to those concerns?

Contribute to the debate: www.talkswindon.org

13/2/09 11:08:06

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

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Parish council looks for 4 to fill vacancies

Haydon Wick parish council has four vacancies for new members and would particularly like to hear from anyone willing to represent the areas of Oakhurst, Middle Clover and Haydon End. The minimum commitment is new councillors could be co-opted to attend two evening meetings without the need for an election.

One of the recent vacancies is due a month. Full council meetings are held on the third Tuesday of to the death of coun John Archer in every month and each councillor January 2009. The parish council serves on at least one committee, expressed its appreciation of his with meetings also taking place on contribution to the area, as a parish councillor and previously as a Tuesday evenings.

To be eligible, people have to live Wiltshire County councillor and a or work in the parish which covers Swindon Borough councillor.

For details about joining the parparts of the Northern development and Haydon Wick. It is likely that ish council, call 722446.

Annual meeting to look at parish performance The Annual Haydon Wick Parish Meeting will be held at the council offices, Thames Avenue on 31 March, 8pm, where the annual Performance Plan will be assessed and plans for the coming year will be explained.

The parish council covers Haydon Wick, much of Abbey Meads and most of Priory Vale. The meeting is an opportunity for people to raise any issues of local interest and community concern. www.haydonwick.gov.uk

People needed behind the wheel Haydon Wick Community Transport is always looking for people to drive the community mini-bus which provides transport for the elderly and disabled to local supermarkets, clubs, pub lunches and doctor or hospital appointments.

Drivers who can make a regular commitment and others available for holiday and sickness cover are needed. Call 722446 for details.

Save Swindon’s Park & Ride say disgruntled commuters

In a bid to block Swindon Council’s proposal to mothball the Groundwell Park & Ride scheme, commuters have united to form SPARK (Save Park And Ride Kampaign).

SPARKing out against park & ride suspension Within a couple of weeks of discovering the council’s intention in early February, SPARK members collected some 800 signatures from commuters and work colleagues and the number is rising.

The action group is also encouraging as many people as possible to write to Leader of the Council Rod Bluh and their local councillor to voice their objections to the closure, which the council say is temporary and will save £331,000.

Founder of SPARK and spokesperson, Lindsay Cathcart said, “Everyone is concerned about the impact of this proposal on town centre congestion and the environment. Many people are angry about the lack of consultation and the council’s failure to listen to Swindon residents’ views. We are determined that their voices are heard.”

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 8

Shadow transport spokesperson coun Derique Montaut said the council is doing a policy u-turn.

“Swindon’s five year transport plan requires adequate provision of Park & Ride facilities to help discourage people from driving into the centre of Swindon. Mothballing the scheme sees the council reneging on this commitment.”

North Swindon MP Michael Wills believes the proposal to be short sighted, bad for the environment and bad for Swindon.

Coun Peter Greenhalgh, cabinet member for sustainability, transport and strategic planning, said the council was having to look for cost savings wherever it could, due to huge budgetary pressures and inadequate government support.

To find out more about SPARK mail: spark2009@hotmail.co.uk

13/2/09 10:05:41

swindonlink.com • March 2009

9

Redhouse association forms to represent residents’ interests

Rumours that a designated open space at the north end of Redhouse was to be used for housing has encouraged residents to form an association to keep an eye on developments and to make local voices heard by ward councillors, as well as Haydon Wick Parish and Swindon Councils.

A first meeting of the new Redhouse Residents’ Association, attended inclusive group and give all households the opportunity to speak out,” by 35 people, heard that contractors building the play area were going to he said. “If a formal committee becomes necessary to coordinate business set up a compound, but a wide range of complaints and concerns were we’ll look at starting one.”

The next meeting takes place on Tuesday 10 March, 7.30pm at Red raised, including access by emergency vehicles on crowded roads, the Oaks Primary School on the Learning Campus. Agreeing a constitution lack of post boxes and the need to finish off roads and footpaths.

Chairman David Raymond said the association was going to oper- will be the main item on the agenda.

Turn up or call David Raymond on 725408 or mail: draymond55@ ate an open meetings policy to give all residents the chance to discuss community concerns. “We need to grow the residents’ association as an hotmail.com

North dog owners falling foul of the law

Incensed and disgusted at the amount of dog mess on the pavements of North Swindon, Redhouse resident Andrea Collins is calling for people to be more vigilant and report irresponsible dog owners.

Independent • Private • Denplan

Since she started walking her two retriever puppies she has been appalled at the extent of dog fouling in the area, despite being well provided with dog bins. Caradon Walk in Redhouse and walkways near the park in Haydon End are particularly badly affected.

“Redhouse has some really nice parks and children love to play games in them, but you just don’t know if they’re going to get covered in dog muck,” she said.

Professional dog walker, Carole Dolphin, walks 12 to 15 dogs on the estate. “You find yourself walking Keep North Swindon free of dog mess say, Carole Dolphin, Jamie Clifton, Andrea through other people’s dog mess Watson, Nick Gardiner, Sara Holden, Isabella Fuller, Bettina Sullivan just to clear up your dog’s droppings. What’s equally bad is people According to Bettina Sullivan hazard. “The mess is everywhere; accusing me of fouling the area.” walking children to school is a children can’t avoid getting it on

their shoes and tracking it into the classroom where they sit on the floor. The danger of disease is very serious.”

Failing to clean up after your dog is an offence and owners can be fined up to £1,000. Where a problem is reported, Swindon Council dog wardens will undertake high visibility patrols when they will talk to dog owners and offer dog bags, or carry out undercover operations.

Animals Warden Alison Wayne said, “if we observe a dog owner not picking up, and they don’t have an excuse like being blind or disabled, we will always prosecute.”

To report dog fouling or request a clean up, call 445501 or www. swindon.gov.uk/streetsmart

Professional, affordable dentistry 1 Open evenings until 7pm four days a week 2 Competitive, affordable prices (in comparison with the NHS) 3 Free dental treatment for children 4 Hygienist now available 5 Payment schemes are available 6 Cosmetic treatment available, including: Zoom 2 Whitening & Implants 7 Plenty of parking space 8 Disabled access available

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13/2/09 11:08:54

10 swindonlink.com • March 2009

Charlie’s memory still strong as help for others continues

In her short life Charlie Jarvis touched many lives. As her family marked what would have been her 11th birthday, they spoke of life after Charlie and how money raised in her name has helped others.

Charlie was diagnosed with an and a trip to Euro pass donated by the back in my arms. I’ve been blessed aggressive cancer in 2001 and hit Disney paid for by owners, who dedi- by both my daughters. Robyn is so the headlines when a campaign First City Nursing cated a bench to her brave and strong.” was launched to collect money Agency.”

Shortly after Charlie was dimemory after her towards finding a cure. Swindon agnosed, Sam joined CALM, the death.

One of her favoupeople raised over £100,000 and pio- rite days out was Sam and Charlie’s charity that supports children neering treatment at the Bruzinski a trip to Butterfly older sister, Robyn, with cancer and their families. She Institute in Houston, Texas bought World at Studley make an annual visit now spends time with families Charlie a precious extra 18 months Grange where she to Charlie’s bench, going through the ups and downs of life. She died in June 2005 aged was enchanted by followed by a trip of treatment. “It’s devastating to 7 years, 6 months. to McDonald’s for know your child has cancer and the gently flutter“Charlie had a fantastic 18 ing creatures. Charher favourite banana one of the things you don’t realise months,” said mum, Sam Jarvis. lie, right, was able milkshake. Speak- is how expensive it is; going to “She made a trip to Lapland, thanks to visit regularly ing of her loss, Sam specialist centres means staying to the Christine Lewis Foundation, thanks to a family said that Charlie overnight, and sometimes for weeks is always in her thoughts. “Not a on end.”

After paying for treatment, a day goes by when I don’t want her small amount of money was left in what Sam calls ‘Charlie’s Fund.’ She has Alison Deacon & Associates made donations to several B.Sc. (Hons) Degree, MChS, HPC children’s charities, includExperienced & Qualified to FULL NHS standards ing CALM, and has helped pay for a horse and carriage • All Foot Problems for a little girl’s funeral and • Biomechanical Assessments & Diabetic Care to repatriate a boy’s body • Professional Clinic & Home Visits to Africa. The fund has also • Nursing/Residential Establishments helped buy specialist cancer • Early morning, late evening & weekend clinics medicine, a talking computer and an adapted push Swindon 525 524 chair, and donations have Optimum Health Services Ltd been made to the Callum 29 Groundwell Rd, Swindon SN1 2LY Kaye fund and Chernobyl Samantha and Robyn Jarvis on Charlie’s bench Children’s Lifeline. www.OptimumHealthServices.net at Studley Grange Butterfly Centre with man- • 24 Squadron boost for ager Phil Noon CALM - see page 20.

Podiatrists (Chiropodists)

Curry to help beat men’s cancers

Over 37,000 men will be diagnosed with a male-specific cancer in 2009; from sons to grandfathers, men face the risk of prostate, penile or testicular cancer.

Orchid Cancer plays a leading role in the fight against male cancer through research and awareness and by supporting patients. Geraldine Monk from Shaw is holding a curry night for the charity at the Bombay Lounge, Peatmoor on 17 March to raise money. To support the cause, call the restaurant on 887799 to book a table.

Another Swindon Link seeks people's views on health services

The Local Involvement Network (LINk) makes sure that people who use health and social care services can make their views heard and have a chance to suggest improvements.

Swindon LINk's role is to ask view and Scrutiny Committee.

People can comment on matters people what they think and listen to their suggestions. It will also that concern them about health look into issues of concern to the and social care services by calling community. The organisation is or writing to LINk, or they can part of a nationwide government become more involved by joining initiative and is independent of local the committee. Community groups can also join. The organisation aims government and the NHS. LINks are more than a sounding to connect groups together so that board; they can achieve results us- their ideas will have more influence ing powers allowing them to visit on the delivery of services.

A representative from LINk will and work with health and social care services. They can expect answers visit any organisation interested in to any queries from service provid- joining the network to explain what ers within certain time scales and it does and the benefits of becoming can carry out spot checks to see if more closely involved. For details services are working well. LINk can call 497777. www.swindonspider.co.uk also refer issues to the local Over-

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 10

12/2/09 09:40:06

swindonlink.com • March 2009

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12 swindonlink.com • March 2009

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swindonlink.com • March 2009

13

Footpath closure to allow eco-water treatment plant to be built

d Mea

Construction of a natural reed bed water treatment system in West Swindon over the next 9 months means that an informal footpath and cycleway used by many residents has to be shut.

"The last part of the project will The route from Sparcells to the Footpath Sparcells involve the community, where loRiver Ray Parkway is not actually to close cal people will help create a new a designated footpath which means clear water pond next to Sparcells statutory notices have not had to be stream." published, so the closure may come During the construction work as a surprise to many. there is an alternative route through The reed bed, which will filter Shaw Forest park. surface water containing low level Building the water treatment contaminants running off Shaw Shaw Forest ponds is going on at the same time Forest Park, has been designed Phase 3 Park 1 & 2 as a £2 million project to create the

by Swindon Borough Council third phase of Shaw Forest park with assistance from the Wildfowl on a recently closed landfill site and Wetland Trust at Slimbridge, nearby. and approval of the Environment For more information about the Agency. work at Shaw Forest and the natural The £750,000 project includes filtration project, call Bob Fisher on digging a lined ditch around the 07786 020886. perimeter of the park so that water • Bob and colleagues will be flows to the lowest point where speaking about the project at the reeds planted in shallow, gravel West Swindon Forum on Monday bottomed ponds will filter out any 9 March - see details page 4 pollution.

Deep level leachate from the is a long term cost saver as the reed • See more pictures at www.swinAt present the council is paying around £250,000 annually for up landfill is collected by a pipe system bed will filter out contaminants donlink.com to 250 tons of surface water a day under the park and pumped to the without any intervention once it is to be pumped from temporary Thames Water treatment works at established.

"We will reinstate the footpath collecting ponds and removed by Barnfield.

Bob Fisher, Swindon Commer- with the filter ponds on either side. tanker for treatment. In Spring 2008 Swindon Council was fined cial Services site manager, said In the long run people will see all £8,000 by the Environment Agency the council had no choice about manner of bird and insect life; it's because storm water from the tem- undertaking the works. "The En- going to be a very interesting and porary ponds overflowed into the vironment Agency requires surface attractive environmental site.

Sparcells stream which feeds into water from former landfill sites to be Right, the Slimbridge pond on which the free of contamination. Our project Sparcells project is modelled the River Ray.

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14 swindonlink.com • March 2009

Millbrook team has protocol on its side

Youngsters in the Millbrook Primary School netball squad are now some of the smartest players in the West Swindon league, thanks to a new kit donated by Protocol Educational Services.

The company supplies teachers and classroom assistants on daily or short term contracts and responded to a request for new bibs, shirts and skirts from the school.

Team coach Talia Wood said she thought the team would play with much greater pride now that they could wear the Millbrook purple together.

Player Kirsty Harris also reckons playing standards will improve. “The old kit was a bit raggedy. The new one looks really smart and we’ll be able to recognise each other better.”

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Big screen turn on at Orchid Vale

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Year 6 pupil Becky Boyall, pressing the big on button, with headteacher Debbie Kalynka and back from left, chair of governors Clint Ricketts, Steve Grant of The Life Channel, Gary Perkins, Swindon cabinet member for Children’s Services

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After weeks of anticipation, pupils at Orchid Vale Primary School learned in early February why two large plasma televisions had appeared in the school hall and playground.

At a launch ceremony in early February, head teacher Debbie Kalynka explained that the TVs will show educational content, such as short films encouraging the children to stay healthy, and images to celebrate children’s work. “There are so many lovely, creative and innovative activities in school to show off to each other and to visitors.”

Parents will be able to keep up to date by checking the information displayed in the playground. “It’s another way for parents to see what’s going on,” said Mrs Kalynka. “The children will make parents look; especially if their pictures are up there.”

The screens went live during a special assembly where images of children enjoying the school’s science week were greeted with delight.

Orchid Vale is the first Swindon school to sign up to The Life Channel, which provides educational content on issues like healthy eating, bullying, recycling and lifestyle.

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13/2/09 11:10:47

swindonlink.com • March 2009

15

Friends first year fundraising feat

In its first year the small group of parents who make up the Friends of Isambard Community School raised an impresseive £3,000 towards the bid for specialist arts college status.

Extended School Services are here in your local community to offer you and your family a variety of services, activities and opportunities either as individuals or as a family.

So whether you are looking for new social outlets, childcare, information on paying for childcare, clubs and activities, holiday activities for your children, adult courses, retraining or opportunities to return to work .... . . . it’s all just one click away . . . take a look today at what’s coming your way!”

www.novahreodisambardess.org.uk For further information contact Sandra Collis or Lisa Parkinson on 01793 608199

. . . Every child matters

Ms Mattey, left, receiving the Friends’ cheque from Paul O’Riordan, Michele Tyler, Diane Unsworth, Indira Walters, Suzanne Marshall

Friends’ chairman Paul O’Riordan hopes the total sets the baseline for future fundraising totals. “The major event was last year’s summer fete and we organised a series of discos which were well received by pupils. We could do a lot more events if more parents could help out, so contact us and join in to give more to the children.”

Headteacher Rachel Mattey said, “considering that we only had one year group of 246 children in the school in our first year, the Friends’ committee did brilliantly. Their contribution to our specialist school status is very important.”

For details of how to join the Friends of Isambard, mail Paul at: oriordan007@hotmail.co.uk

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Pupils at Uplands Special School on the Learning Campus received certificates for completing two of the four sections in pursuit of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.

Youth worker Carol-Anne Rapson, Further Education Centre coordinator, Lin Mitchell, teaching assistant Jenny Lillystone, recently retired headteacher Mary Bishop, with participants, from left, back, Todd Scanlon, Lucy Besley, Luke Paul.

Front, Jonathan Kinder, Sam Pierce

In the skills section they learnt about gardening and some of the group have set up plots of their own at home. In the physical section they tried out a variety of sports like kick boxing, tennis and basketball.

By the end of the school year the five pupils will have undertaken a community service project and gone on a week long expedition.

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 15

Project organiser youth worker Carole Anne Rapson said. “They’ve really worked hard in the two sections so far and are having a lot of fun planning the expedition.”

Former Uplands headteacher Mary Bishop returned to school to see the young people receive their certificates at a special awards assembly.

13/2/09 11:11:33

16 swindonlink.com • March 2009

Safety messages make Brook Field pupils aware

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In the event of an emergency, you would be lucky to have a Brook Field pupil on hand to help out after the whole school learned about keeping themselves safe and helping others during a safety day in February.

Pupils’ observation skills were realised how important it is to tested at the start of the day with have these skills and hopefully one an assembly by Community Safety day they might use them to save Police Officer, PC Robin Stannard, someone’s life.”

“We’ve learned the recovery where they witnessed the theft of his hat and were asked to describe position and how to use CPR. It’s easy when you get the hang of it,” the villain.

The fire brigade talked to young- said Alex Shaw.

“I didn’t know any symptoms sters about safety and the juniors experienced what it’s like to be before but now I feel confident that caught in a dark smoke filled room. I would know what to do,” said Other subjects covered included Alecia Kissell.

Ms Rayment summed the day PCSO Richard Lane shows what happens road safety and the importance of up.

“Really useful practical lessons hand hygiene. to people who misbehave themselves PHSE coordinator Clare Ray- were learnt. We want the children ment and colleague, Sarah Back- to be safe in their lives now and in well, taught junior classes how to the future.” recognise the symptoms of a heart attack, and practised CPR resuscitaton on eight mannequins donated by the British Heart Foundation, right.

She said, “they’ve been shocked at some of the images but I think they’ve

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Oakhurst parents get their own primary school

If

The Link revealed in September, three months before any other media, that the Swindon Al Habib Islamic & Cultural Centre might submit an application to manage the school under new legislation which gives community organisations and businesses an equal opportunity with local councils to run new schools.

Having campaigned for two years for the school to be built, parents were shocked to discover that only half the places might be allocated to local children if the AlHabib centre were to be selected.

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There was huge relief for parents living in Oakhurst when the government’s Schools Adjudicator ruled in early February that the primary school to open in September 2009 will be managed by Swindon Borough Council rather than run as a faith school.

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community who have fought so long and hard to secure this school.

It shows if we all work together we can really make a difference.

“A big thank you to every resident who sent in their views, attended the public meeting and supported the campaign."

The school competition process has been massively disruptive for parents and schools. Many had applied to other primary schools which had plans to provide extra places in September. These are being redrawn as Oakhurst children are likely to be switched to the

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Oakhurst parents and children pleased their school will serve their community

Currently Oakhurst children attend 25 primary schools and making Oakhurst a faith school would have meant children travelling out of the area to allow Muslim children from across the town to travel in.

Melanie Eastwood, the only parent to attend a public seminar in July 2008 where the rules of the school management competition were explained, welcomed the news.

“My husband and I are delighted to hear of the decision. So many people were thinking of moving house or looking at private schools. We’re really pleased because our daughter, Milly, will start in 2010 “The adjudicator has based his decision on what is right for the community, irrespective of race or religion.”

Ward councillor Justin Tomlinson, said, "I am extremely pleased with the decision. It’s a victory for common sense and for the local

new school.

In September 60 reception and Year 1 children will start in temporary classrooms on the Pioneer Road site and the permanent school will open to all year groups in 2010.

Ian Bickerton, Swindon Council's director of access and provision at Children's Services, said he was very pleased with the decision.

"The council always thought it appropriate that Oakhurst primary be a community school and I'm pleased for parents in the area.

"The temporary governing body will meet very quickly to catch up with the planning that council officers have already had to undertake to ensure the temporary building is ready for this September and building work can start on the permanent school to be completed for September 2010. The decision means we are able to meet these deadlines."

Balanced reporting appreciated From Liz Fewings, Oakhurst I would just like to thank you for your fair and consistent coverage of the Oakhurst school story.

The Link was the only publication that stayed objective and did not get caught up in the hype over the faith school issue. I am really pleased with the decision and look forward to seeing a successful community primary school being established in the near future.

From Rick Kirk, Oakhurst I along with many other parents would like to thank The Link for its continued support and the way it has championed our cause from the start when no other part of the local media was interested.

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 17

13/2/09 11:13:37

18 swindonlink.com • March 2009

Crèche co-op marks 20 years

Be the star that you are at Drama Babes Voted No.1 in ‘The Times’ Top 5 for Kids (Published in The Independent & The Guardian)

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When their grant funding was cut four years ago, Swindon Child Carers were forced to reassess their business; still thriving, the workers cooperative recently celebrated reaching its 20th anniversary and the future as a co-op is bright.

There are 22 members of the The company was originally founded to provide mobile crèches co-operative who are all involved at training courses. It has expanded in major decisions. Five directors to provide care for up to eight year manage day to day operations. Kate, olds at weddings and corporate oc- a member for ten years, finds it a casions. As long as event organisers rewarding way to work. “Everyone can provide a suitable room, Swin- has a vested interest in the company don Child Carers will bring all the because we all have a stake. We’re all equipment and games to transform mothers and have a lot in common; it’s a nice, friendly place to work, it into a stimulating play area.

“Things have been going really relaxed with no pressure.

“Madge Clements, who founded well since we’ve been promoting ourselves in the private sector,” Swindon Child Carers, died a year said director and chair Kate Barker. ago. It was a shock and scary for “The wedding crèches are really us; we had to take on such a lot of popular. The children have a lot responsibility. But I think she’d be of fun and parents can relax and proud of us.” www.swindonchildcarers.co.uk enjoy the day.”

Flat packed children’s centre takes shape

After two years of waiting, Moredon Children’s Centre was rebuilt in under a week and should be ready to open its doors by Easter.

Independent local theatre practitioner Classes in North & West Swindon and Cricklade

Mum of Amelia, aged 2 and a half

www.dramababes.co.uk Call Fiona on 07799 691328

Fr e Le e T ss ri on al

“This is the best thing I have brought any of my children to in the last ten years”

Foundation stage for Kay White and Alison Barretts of Head Starts Nursery

Pinehurst Children’s Centre which was only two years old when the site had to be cleared to make way for the Swindon Academy has been rebuilt off Montrose Close, next to Moredon Primary School.

Centre manager, Kay White was on site to see it arrive. “It was so exciting having planned for the centre for so long. I thought it would be a modular building but it came flat packed and was put together like a Meccano set in only four days.

Luckily it was almost complete before the heavy snow arrived

although the bad weather delayed tiling the roof.”

Kay, having moved her office five times in the past two years, is looking forward to putting down roots. “It will be nice to unpack and to develop our activities.”

Once installed, Kay and her team plan to start a new tots’ exercise session, a second dads’ group and cooking on a budget classes in addition to the existing programme.

Child care will be provided by Headstarts Day Nursery.

For details call 615479.

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & garden Grant places available For information call: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 18

l

l l l l

An 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 Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

13/2/09 11:15:23

swindonlink.com • March 2009

19

Opera singing mum brings long running musical group for pre-schoolers

Musical Minis this year will celebrate twenty years since it was founded and now London’s original music group for babies and toddlers has opened a branch in Swindon.

“Parents and children enjoy the Mother of two pre-school children and trained opera singer set pattern of the classes, and the Chrissie Rolls from Redhouse variety of songs and stories used started seven classes in January at to make it exciting for them,” said Abbey Meads Primary School and Chrissie. “It’s very active. I did no the Haydon Centre and numbers exercise before starting the classes, but with seven on the go, I’ve started attending is quickly climbing.

Musical Minis uses a variety of losing weight. I’ve heard that classic children’s songs and modern mums cancel their fitness classes tunes, with stories, instruments because Musical Minis is enough and puppets to develop important for them.”

For details of Chrissie’s classes, co-ordination, speech and social call her on 725259. skills.

NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday 28 March, 11am - 1pm Oasis Leisure Centre Entry: £1.50, open to members and non-members.

Choose from a quality selection of children’s clothes (0-4yrs), cots, prams, nursery equipment, maternity wear, toys, DVDs, videos, books.

To sell items, send a cheque for £3 payable to NCT Swindon Branch to NCT Sellers Packs, 450 Ferndale Rd, Swindon SN2 1HW To volunteer and shop early call 07005 801 637.

Infant Massage From birth to 1 year For mums and dads Qualified instructor IAIM 5 week courses St. Francis School, Taw Hill Monday 1pm North Swindon Library Saturday 10am Also available: Sports, pregnancy and Swedish massage Contact Sandra McGlone on

07501 152205

or e-mail: sandramcglone@talktalk.net

The Springboard to Confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years.

Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing, co-ordination appropriate to his or her age.

Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills.

Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.

Tumble Tots now in your area!

For information about local centres call

Liz Davies on 0844 800 0219

Headstarts Day Nursery Established 1990

Delta Business Park, Westlea West Swindon. Tel: 877779 & The Children’s Centre at Robert le Kyng Westcott Street, Swindon. Tel: 484934

Headstarts is a friendly, ‘family’ nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where every child benefits from individual attention. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £35.55 per day Funded child-care credits available.** Government Funded Nursery Sessions**

For further information or to arrange a visit, call 877779 or 484934

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Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day worth £44.88 per week Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds*

Special offer FREE child care worth £50 with this advert* *Conditions apply **Rates may vary

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon, Wilts. SN6 7QG 01793 763939 www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30-5.00pm

Mother’s Day Special- March 22nd- details on website Open daily during school holidays Full program of events through the day: * Meet & Feed the Animals * Tractor & Trailer Rides & Electric Tractors * Indoor Heated Toddlers Soft Play & Sandpit * Children’s Themed Glueing and Sticking * Activity Barn with Giant Slide and New Ball Pond * Big Straw Bale Stack & Bouncy Castle * Granary Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes!

Teddy Bears Picnic on Fridays during term time !

Children’s Birthday Parties

March 09 1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 19

12/2/09 10:17:54

20 swindonlink.com • March 2009

West Swindon Childminders

Spotlight Dancewear

Registered & CRB checked with full and part time vacancies available Contact 01793 632695 www.westswindonchildminders.co.uk

New lines added Business as usual - relocating soon

Hercules squadron gives CALM a lift

Since adopting Swindon’s children’s cancer charity CALM last June, 24 Squadron at RAF Lyneham has raised over £6,000 for them.

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Richard Crowley and CALM families receiving a cheque at the firework show

CALM relies entirely on donations to provide support for children affected by cancer and their families. They were contacted by the Hercules squadron which was looking for a charity to support after the closure of Burton House, Malmesbury, which they had supported for 60 years.

Squadron personnel have organised a number of family events since last summer said CALM chairman Richard Crowley.

“Some of our families went up in a Hercules in August and squadron members visited one of our terminally ill children. In November CALM families were invited to the Lyneham fireworks display, and personnel helped at our Christmas bag pack at Morrisons, came to our Christmas party, and several of our families attended a panto at RAF Lyneham.

“The CALM committee are very thankful for the support that 24 Squadron is giving to the charity.”

The squadron has pledged to raise a spectacular £10,000 a year.

“We want to show people what CALM is about,” said fundraising coordinator, Ozzy Hicks. “There are lots of people working hard towards fundraising and the money pays for hospital visits which are expensive and can be a tight pull on the purse strings.

“The kids are fantastic. At the flying day they were open mouthed and wide eyed.”

Some of the money raised will go towards buying another caravan for CALM. Two at Tenby and Exmouth are used for respite holidays, but another at South Cerney will allow families to get away whilst being close to hospital if needs be. www.calmcharity.org

IT guys run for CALM in March Three desktop couch potatoes who work for businesses at Basepoint Business Centre are running the Silverstone half marathon on 15 March in aid of CALM. Chris Griffin, of Sensata IT Solutions, Mike Land, who owns graphic design company RHL Creative, and colleague Richard Mayneord haveselected CALM to focus their 2009 get fit regime after asking The Link for suggestions.

Chris, who hasn’t exercised for 20 years, is being encouraged by Mike and Richard who are in the Les Slinn All Stars. Richard completed the London marathon last year. “I will finish..., but perhaps not with the other two,” he said.

To sponsor them call Chris on 0845 014 1500.

‘Run fat boy run.’ Mike, Chris and Richard with CALM chairman Richard Crowley

1 - 21 March 09 Ext.indd 20

13/2/09 11:16:57

21

Riddler’s Cottage Flowers

Mothering Sunday Flowers

Free tours at the National Trust and special events

The National Trust’s Central Office - Heelis - next door to the Designer Outlet offers free one hour tours of the building every Friday at 12.30pm, but places should be booked in advance.

Two special events coming Apart from finding out more up: about the work of the 500 staff and 74 volunteers who work there, the Sunday 22 March: Special Mothtours are a chance to discover why ers’ Day lunch in the café the building has won 16 awards Saturday 4 April, 11am to 4pm: for its environmental design and Heelis Spring Fair. Free admissustainable office practices since sion. Craft stalls, plus the start of it opened in July 2005. the Easter egg hunt which will run Solar panels on the roof have from Saturday 4 April to Sunday so far provided more than 230,000 18 April, (except Easter Sunday Kw of electricity for the build11 April). ing, saving the trust more than The trail costs £1.50 to enter, and £14,000 from its energy budget. everyone who completes the trail Natural ventilation keeps the offices cool in the summer, rather than branded goods you’d expect to find wins a Cadbury’s Egg Head. costly air conditioning, and recycling at any of the stately homes in its To book a tour or for event details, bins dotted around the offices help ownership, and there is a comfort- call 817575. staff to recycle on average 60 per able café, serving a wide range of www.nationaltrust.org.uk cent of the rubbish generated. locally sourced and organic food, The public areas of Heelis in- with children’s pick and mix and clude a shop selling National Trust vegetarian options.

Simply beautiful flowers for every occasion 01793 772869 or 07743 504415

www.riddlerscottageflowers.co.uk.

Janet Mosley

Classical Guitarist Romantic music for your very special day Tel: 07798 880724

Community radio makes cash appeal

A large grant application to support the development of Swindon’s increasingly popular community radio station was turned down in early February which means an uncertain future, only a year after it was launched The station, coor“But it takes mondinated by profesey to keep it all gosional broadcaster ing, and not being Shirley Ludford as successful with the paid manager, now grant application is has 100 volunteers a bit of a knock. For aged 11 to 75 years example, our anwho present a dinual £2,600 broadverse range of programmes, from casting licence has to be paid soon. brass band, Latin and folk to rock So we need everybody’s help.” ‘n roll and drum and bass, to talk, 105.5 has launched a £10 a literature, art and age interest month friends’ support scheme so broadcasts. that individuals and business can The station has a five-year make small contributions. Large extendible licence and relies on companies are also needed to donations, grants, fundraising and help. memberships.

Contact the station if you can “Our programming has been organise a fundraising event. really well received by people who For details call Shirley Ludford like our slogan, ‘daring to be differ- or a station volunteer on 611555 ent,” said Shirley. “We’ve also been or mail via: receiving a huge range of requests www.swindon1055.com for people who want to train in radio broadcasting, and schools who see • Charity curry night at The Bimedia awareness as an important plob restaurant: 17 March, 7pm.

Places for 30 people. Call 490265 part of the curriculum.

“And we’re launching new ini- to book.

Link and Swindon 105.5 story tiatives in the community, where writing competition. people receive training to cover the See page 29 news and goings on in their area.

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 21

6 – 10 May Tickets: 01793 524481 www.wyverntheatre.org.uk

13/2/09 11:17:38

Swindon Wide

22

BLAYLOCKS

Technics keyboard players compare notes

Keyboard Capers provides technical information and demonstrations for owners of Technics keyboards who SWINDON’S FAMILY want to get the most out of their instrument.

SHOE SHOP For those new to keyboards, the There is also an opportunity to hear Est. 1920 array of buttons and settings can be more from the club on Swindon and the club has been set 105.5FM as they take to the airSTOCKISTS OF ALL Members of Swindon Scratch daunting up to help people understand the waves on Mondays 2pm to 3pm.

Choir are holding weekly daytime LEADING BRANDS singing sessions for everybody on technology.

Fortnightly meetings are held Members range in ability from on Tuesdays, 7.30pm to 10pm, at Tuesdays from 3pm to 4.30pm at NEW SPRING RANGES beginners to experts who are happy Moredon Community Centre.

Lower Shaw Farm. www.keyboardcapers.com to share their technical know-how.

NOW ARRIVING Absolutely no experience is necessary. On offer is fun, friends and BLAYLOCKS relaxation.

Bath Road Corner The cost is £2.50 to £4 depending Slow down life’s rhythm with a holiday that combines drum and yoga on circumstances.

Old Town For details call Linda Lee on tuition in a stunning setting in May. YogaWorks holidays are organised by Graeme and Afna Goodwin from Tel: 534271 875184.

Freshbrook. Graeme is a well respected teacher of traditional Gambian djembe drumming and Anna is a keen yoga practitioner so the couple have combined their two passions to create a beautifully relaxing holiday.

They have chosen a resort in Sardinia and are taking advantage of the quieter season when fewer Italian holiday makers are attracted there.

Throughout the week Graeme will teach drums, whilst Todd Tesen, a certified Anusara instructor will lead daily practice in asana, pranayama, 13 Rodbourne Rd, Swindon Tel: 01793 490947 mantra and meditation.

To find out more call Graeme on 07828 788 552. www.yogaworksuk.co.uk

Sing into Spring

Beat a retreat to Sardinia

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21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 22

Mothers’ Day gift problems solved

An open evening on 13 March, 7pm to 9pm, where people can browse for Mothers’ Day gifts will benefit mothers to be.

Helen Barnett, owner of Pink But- rather than rely on friends and family ton gifts and baby wear, at Godwin to sponsor her, Helen is using her Court, Old Town is donating all prof- business to boost income for her chosen cause. its to Action on Pre-Eclampsia.

Spring is the ideal time to take a And the charity will receive 10 per cent of profits made every Tuesday fresh look at what Pink Button has until the London Marathon on 26 to offer. As well as baby clothes, April, which she will be running with christening gifts and keepsakes, there is a range of gifts and cards. her mother.

Helen said that some of the Helen, who studied fashion design customers will have been affected at university, makes some of the by the condition. “We had a similar items including cushions, doorstops evening before Christmas and it and bags which can be personalwas very popular. People can come ised. The shop will also have Easter in, have a look round the shop and decorations in stock.

There is parking directly in front enjoy a glass of wine and a few of the shop. nibbles” www.pinkbutton.co.uk Her target is to raise £1,000 and,

Win a fantastic classic

It’s forty years since Eric Carle’s famous children’s book The Very Hungry Caterpillar was first published.

‘The Snowman’ fame, as Continuously in print, the Executive Producer, it’s said the book has sold faithfully utilises Carle’s one copy every minute unmistakable artwork to since 1969. It has eaten charming effect. its way into the hearts of The DVD in a delightliterally millions of chilfully designed sleeve dren all over the world, comes with a copy of The who have in turn bought Very Hungry Caterpillar copies to share with which can be read with their own offspring. children at the same time.

To mark the anniversary of this classic, an animated The Associates are making three version has been released on copies available to Link readers.

DVD, along with four more of Eric To win one, tell us the conclusion Carle’s stories, by distributors of the story and send your entry The Associates. The production to Swindon Link, 71 Basepoint,

by The Illuminated Film Company Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 (who are responsible for The Little 7EX, by 6 March. Illustrations are Princess) with Raymond Briggs of welcome.

13/2/09 11:53:48

S D S

W w s l r p

f ( a t m d t fi a d & p w c & l

o S A s g t o T C O

A Different Culture

Swindon is forever being knocked for its lack of culture, but here Dr Mike Pringle, Director of the Swindon Cultural Partnership, asks why and suggests that maybe Swindon’s culture is all that’s great about Britain.

What exactly do we mean when we say ‘culture’? That single word seems to affect everything in our lives, including the economy, the regeneration and even the world’s perception of Swindon.

The Government Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) suggests that culture is all the things that mean something to us (for example: shared memories, experience & identity, diverse backgrounds), as well as the obvious things like arts, media, film, museums, libraries, literature and archaeology. But the DCMS definition also includes churches & places of worship, sports, parks, open spaces, wildlife, water & countryside, recreation, children’s play, tourism, festivals & attractions, and even informal leisure pursuits!

With such a wide definition of culture (maybe too wide), is Swindon still a cultural desert?

Actually, a quick look around soon reveals that there is plenty going on, for example, we have: the little known Swindon Museum of Computing; New College Theatre; Lydiard House; Swindon Collection of 20th Century Art; Old Holy Rood Church; 150 parks

& gardens; Swindon Museum & Art Gallery; a dozen brass bands; the Railway Village; Swindon Literature Festival; Coate Water; GWR Community Centre and Baths; Lower Shaw Farm; Swindon Mela; Swindon Dance; Wilts & Berks Canal; Arts Centre; Headquarters of National Trust; Swindon Bowl; Steam Museum; Richard Jefferies Museum; Swindon Town Football Club; Mechanics’ Institute; Swindon Art College; Swindon half

marathon; Stanton Park; Swindon Rugby Club; English Heritage’s National Monuments Record Centre; Old Town Gardens; Swindon Jazz Society; Artsite; Science Museum Swindon; Lawns; Swindon Robins; The Oasis; Queen’s Park; Swindon Choral Society; Swindon Pride; Wyvern Theatre; Barbury Castle; and, perhaps more significantly, hundreds of clubs, groups and organisations that fit under the Government’s banner. What this means for Swindon is that there must be thousands and thousands of people engaging in ‘culture’ of one sort or another, every day!

So where do we get such a rotten reputation? Maybe

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 23

Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud gives us a clue: “It would be fair to say that Swindon enjoys an abundance of averageness. It is the place to which, if you’re Mars or Unilever, you take your prototype products to be tested.

Demographically it is Little Britain, the

petrie dish of the UK consumer’s DNA.”

Great Britons If Swindon is such an exact microcosm of the UK, in terms of proportions of races, gender, economic profiles etc., then surely it is logical to assume that we should be treated with the same respect as the Nation as a whole: not jingoism, but pride. Yet much of the negativity aimed at our town comes from the rest of the country (and, to be fair, from some of the people who live or work in Swindon). Is this a sad reflection

SWINDON

on the Nation’s view of itself, or, perhaps more positively, is this simply an example of the great British sense of humour – the ability we have to be able to laugh at ourselves?

Swindon has had a lot of press lately because of the recession - reporters think that Swindon is a good barometer of what is happening all over Britain.

Yet, strangely, some of the facts suggest we are ahead of many other places. We have something like the third highest GDP (Gross Domestic Product) in the country, and recently Swindon was declared the place with the lowest car crime rates in the whole UK! And the recent debate on speed cameras has shown that we have the courage to be different from everyone else.

In short, we may be a town of average Britons, but that certainly does not mean we are mediocre. Quite the opposite - maybe one of the great things about Swindon is that it doesn’t brag about itself, just gets on and does things. But then again, maybe we should shout about ourselves a bit more...

Considering the Britishness of Swindon a bit more - we led the Industrial Revolution with our railway works and, over the years, have shifted through computing and cars, to still be one of the country’s top places to set up in business, even in today’s climate! And then there is our geographical location: Swindon was recently named top of the list of the UK’s fastest growing tourist destinations.!

The town sits in the midst of the best of the British countryside and is perfect for exploring the

13/2/09 10:03:05

Georgian elegance of Bath; the ancient landscape of Stonehenge and Avebury; the history of Oxford; and the beauty of the Cotswolds. We also live next door to Cirencester, Reading and Newbury, not to mention the ease with which London can be reached from here. Such a location can provoke the idea that the people of Swindon travel to these places for their cultural fill. Well, if Swindonians are prepared to travel for culture, they must be very cultural indeed! Maybe there is just a hole here that needs filling.

Certainly the South West’s cultural infrastructure strategy which is poised to transform our cultural landscape over the next 20 years, takes this view, pointing out that: “The region has many

cultural assets. It also has some significant gaps.”

A New World Such gaps will provide genuine opportunities for Swindon.

We are currently poised to start a complete regeneration of the town. Quite rightly, much of the new building work will be for offices, shops and houses/flats. But culture, whatever the people of Swindon decide that means, will also be a real and very important part of the regeneration. Our new town will not emerge simply through bricks and mortar; there needs to be more to see and do, more and better public spaces, and even a bit of beauty!

Already, the people at the New Swindon Company (the company

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 24

created to make the regeneration happen), are thinking about the opportunities for new cultural and education facilities in The Promenade. Overall, the area around Theatre Square and the new Central Library could offer 60,000m2 development space and include gallery or museum spaces; cafes, restaurants and specialist shops; provision for work space for new enterprises and creative and performance industries; and improved public spaces.

And, there is room in there for attractive spaces where the people of Swindon can enjoy their new town.

Of course, Swindon has been on the brink of regeneration

before, and we are very unlucky that a recession has struck now.

But that does not mean things will not happen - not if we really want them to happen. It just means the road we will have to travel down will be that much harder - but we’re used to road systems that other people struggle with!

If we think of Swindon’s rich heritage, or the variety of sporting activities that happen in the town today, culture clearly has a part to play in the town’s past, present and future, not only

in giving us things to do but also in contributing to people’s perception of our place.

Let’s face it, Swindon has a few perception problems - for example, TV personality Dom Joly described the town as “the Bronx of the Cotswolds”!

But what is amazing about Swindon, is that everywhere you go, people know about the town and, most of the time, they mention our name with a smile. What is it about Swindon that makes us so unique, so individual?

And can we use this individuality to help us stand out amongst the more obvious cultural offers around us, like Bristol, Oxford, Salisbury etc.?

What are the flavours, sights and sounds that collectively make up all that is great about Swindon and its people?

Our motto is: “Salubritas et Industria” (Health and Industry). Do

we carry ourselves with a simple zest for life and a positive attitude towards hard work? Such an approach put Swindon at the forefront of the railway industry and has since led the borough to attract businesses from all over the world. Is it this unique, pioneering spirit that drives our musicians; our sportspeople; the people of Swindon? Is this what our culture is all about?

Well, maybe... But whatever it is, it will only grow and improve if we are dedicated to its growth, and if our dedication is not based on dreamy ideas, but on what actually happens: on what the people of Swindon have already done, what they are doing now, and on what they want to do next – whether it’s playing in a brass band or a football team, watching a play or a skydiving display, making a pot or potting plants. This is our past, present and future.

This is Swindon’s culture.

Note: More information and the full document that this article is based on can be found at: www.swindonculture.org

13/2/09 10:03:23

the bigger picture

Swindon Wide

25

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Gold Wanted

Any gold items bought for cash!

7 February 2009 - when the big snow hit Swindon. But it didn’t prevent Clive Bunce from Redhouse capturing fascinating monochromatic scenes from around 1,600 feet, including North Swindon Learning Campus and Redhouse, above. A passionate aviator, he specialises in flying paramotors which means strapping a lightweight engine to your back and taking off under a soft, parachute type wing.

“With snow deep on the ground it would have been too dangerous to take off in a fixed wing aircraft; the foot launched paramotor was the only way to get off the ground,” said Clive.

He instructs people how to fly paramotors. See the video at www.ufly2.co.uk or mail: clive@ufly2.co.uk See more of Clive’s Swindon under the snow images at: www.swindonlink.com

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21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 25

If a table is booked for 6 or more the birthday boy or girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free.

Birthday must be on actual day booked.

(Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner. I.D. WILL BE REQUIRED)

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13/2/09 11:56:30

Swindon Wide

26

Festival coup secures ex-chancellor, Morse author and an honest former England cricket captain

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Even as it goes to print, with its two-week programme packed full of literary treats, the Swindon Festival of Literature has secured a number of exciting late bookings of authors and performers to appear in May, writes Swindon Festival of Literature director Matt Holland.

Beating off competition from other leading festivals, organisers have persuaded former Chancellor of the Exchequer Nigel Lawson, Lord Lawson of Blaby, to make Swindon his choice of place to speak out in the Spring.

On 5 May, he will travel from his home in France to the Arts Centre to talk about his controversial book on global warming, An Appeal to Reason.

David Attenborough, presenter of a recent documenMuch less controtary about Charles Darwin, will appear in the same versial but equally festival as Darwin’s great grand-daughters (Photo: well-known known is BBC pictures) Inspector Morse. His creator, prolific writer Colin Dexter, rounder Rory McGrath, renowned will be coming to Swindon on 14 poet Simon Armitage, and Ruth May. He will talk about his books, Padel and Emma Darwin, two great, his input to the televison series, great grand-daughters of Charles and answer questions about Morse, Darwin.

And it’s not just stars imported Lewis and company.

Another late signing is former from far and wide that make the England cricket captain Marcus festival so fabulous. Local writing Trescothick, whose resignation last and performing talent also plays a summer was put down to his bouts big part in fantastic events like the of depression. His autobiography Swindon Slam and Youth Slam!.

The festival runs from 4 to 16 deals honestly with this condition as it applies to a professional in May. The full-colour 32 page festhe world of male sport today. This tival programme will be unveiled event, on 12 May, is sponsored by at Swindon’s new Central Library the Swindon Counselling Service, at midday on Thursday 19 March. who acknowledge illnesses linked Tickets for all events will be on sale to depression as a real 21st Century from midday and not before.

To go on the festival mailing list, challenge for many people.

By way of mixing literature with call 771080 or mail: swindonlitfest@ music, and thanks to the Festival’s lowershawfarm.co.uk good fortune of having, in Dominic www.swindonfestivalofliterature.

Winter, a jazz-loving sponsor, the co.uk late appearance has been secured of an up and coming star from the world of music, Ruthie Culver with her fabulous show, Utter : Jazz.

With poetry, improvisation, and plenty of tradition in the mix, this Swindon City Comics in promises to be a fantastic evening Morley Street will be giving away of utter jazz. thousands of comics on 2 May and With these late bookings added want to involve more schools and to the stars already scheduled community organisations this year. to appear, this year’s festival promises to be one of the best yet. The line up includes national natural history treasure Sir David Attenborough, ex-Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson, commedienne Maureen Lipman, Swindon boy made good Julian Clary, television impressionist Alistair McGowan, Call Steve Causer on 520300 novelists Margaret Drabble and to find out how to get involved.

Josephine Hart, children’s author www.freecomicbookday.com Michael Morpurgo, bird-loving all

Comics for schools and community groups in May

13/2/09 11:59:57

Comedy

Swindon Wide What’s On in March

Monday 2nd, 7.30pm Jethro: What Happened Was .... The comedy legend from Cornwall returns with his own brand of fun. Contains adult material. £18. Wyvern Thursday 5th, 8pm Ivan Brackenbury’s Hospital Radio Show. Ivan’s whole way of life is under threat as he fights to save his show. £10. Arts Centre Friday 6th, 8pm Mutton. A brilliantly funny show packed with sketches recognisable to women of all ages and the men that have to live with them. £12. Wyvern Friday 6th, 8pm Dave Spikey: The Best Medicine ...

Repeat Prescription. Laughter is the best medicine, so come along, have a laugh and go away in much better health. £17.50. Wyvern Friday 20th, 8pm Jongleurs. Swindon’s premier comedy club. £12. Wyvern Sunday 22nd, 7.30pm Count Arthur Strong, the showbiz legend and raconteur. £15. Wyvern Tuesday 31st, 7.30pm

Dance

Friday 6th, 7.45pm Heart of Darkness presented by Tavaziva Dance. Take an emotional, spiritual, scary and raw dance voyage into modern Africa though the eyes of Zimbabwean-born choreographer Barwen Tavaziva and his company of five dancers. £9.50, £6.25 Swindon Dance Friday 13th, 7.45pm My Stamping Ground by Shristi Nina Rajarani Dance Creations. Using a male-dominated cast, My Stamping Ground tackles the issues of gangs in the UK whilst celebrating the friendship and solidarity shared by groups of lads, often misconstrued as gangs. £9.50, £6.25 Swindon Dance Tuesday 17th,7.45pm

Luca Silvestrini’s Dear Body presented by Protein. High energy physical theatre, comedy, video animation and satirical comment on human nature collide in the latest slice of thought-provoking dance theatre.

Different Class with Ed Byrne. New Suitable for over 16 years, contains one man show about marriage, class, nudity. £12 - £16. Wyvern the youth of today. £15. Wyvern Saturday 21st, 1pm & 7.30pm Dancing Through the Decades by Teresa School of Dance. Local dancers aged 2 to 16 years performing Until Saturday 21st in various styles of dance. £8.50.

The Art of Water Water is vital to life. Wyvern The multi-media exhibition explores its many moods and effects. Wyvern Until Saturday 21st Up Close and Perennial by Lyn GilSaturday, 14 March lett. Observations of the natural world 12noon - 5pm in all its myriad textures and detail, Health, Beauty & Well-being Day acknowledging the beauty and colour Taster sessions and advice that surrounds us. Wyvern Reiki, Thai massage, reflexology, facial massage, Until Saturday 28th make-overs, manicures & pedicures Ken White - New Work. Recollections eyebrow threading, aromatherapy of growing up in the 50s and 60s in and more. Crystals and jewellery the industrial setting of a railway town.

Drove People’s Campus, Paintings, etchings and lino-cut prints.

Southampton Street Free. Arts Centre Entry £2.

Free parking, refreshments Until Sunday 29th, Tuesday to SunIn aid of Swindon Therapy Centre day 11am - 4pm for Multiple Sclerosis Ceramics. A selection of beautiful Sunday 22 March, 10am - 4.30pm ceramics from the collection. Normal Antiques Fayre admission prices. Lydiard House Up to 50 stalls: small furniture, Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 28th, Mon to silver, postcards, porcelain Fri, 9am - 5.30pm; Sats 9am - 5pm and jewellery Artwork by G5, a group of local artists.

To book a stall call 525625 Work mainly in acrylics, varied subjects Wyvern Foyer. Entry: donation to and techniques. Free. Framework Art Wyvern Foundation & Craft

Exhibitions

Fundraising

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 27

27

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An evening with a fascinating mix of humour, anecdote and superb music, including Gershwin, Gospel, Blues, songs from the shows and a great deal more!

FRESHBROOK EVANGELICAL CHURCH Worsley Road, Freshbrook SATURDAY 11th APRIL, 7.30pm Obtain a programme in advance to guarantee admission.

Minimum donation of £5 (includes coffee & biscuit) Cheques payable to ‘Freshbrook Church.’ Send SAE to: VEIRA CONCERT, 16 Squires Copse, Peatmoor, Swindon, SN5 5HB Programmes on the door - subject to available space

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Freddie Mercury & Brian May Tribute on Friday 24th April 2009 The image, the energy, the voice of Freddie Mercury. Freddie Mercury and Brian May are once again re-united ‘live’ on stage – a dazzling and powerful variation on a theme from the ‘Great Pretender’.

Dance to your favourite tribute artist and disco. Tickets are £35.00 per person and include a set 4 course candle lit dinner.

(Not suitable for children) Doors open at 8.00pm. Why not meet your party in Carrie’s Bar for a pre-dinner drink?

To book please call 01793 721701

13/2/09 12:00:30

28

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Sunday 1st, 7.30pm Stars From The Commitments.

Direct from Dublin, Dick Massey (drums and percussion) and Kenneth McCluskey (guitar) present music from their BAFTA winning 1991 film, the Commitments. £19. Wyvern Thursday 5th, 7.30pm Pop Goes the 80s. Non-stop hits from the 80s stars. £17.50. Wyvern Saturday 7th, 8pm Martin Harley Band. Martin Harley is a mesmerizing singer/songwriter whose original sound draws on influence from old time blues and folk to world music. £12. Arts Centre Tuesday 10th to Sat 14th, 7.30pm The Sorcerer. Musical performed by Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society. £13. Wyvern Wednesday 11th to Friday 13th, 7.30pm; Sat 14th, 2pm & 7.30pm The Magic of Ten in a Bar. An evening of spells, sorcery and enchantment. £8.50 - £9.50, under 14s free on Sat matinee. Arts Centre Sunday 15th,7.30pm Charlie Landsborough. Charlie and his five -piece band’s music ranges from inspirational to comedy, from ballad to anthem. £17.50. Wyvern Sunday 15th, 8pm Moya Brennan - The Voice of Clannad. Moya’s voice has taken the Irish language and traditional music to centre stage all over the world. £17.50.

Arts Centre Tuesday 17th, 8pm Gilad Atzmon with Strings featuring the Orient House Ensemble. This performance includes adaptations of tunes from Charlie Parker’s original 1950’s Verve recordings. £12.50.

Arts Centre Wednesday 18th, 7.30pm Hot Flush! Outrageous new musical for the perfect girls’ night out, starring Lesley Joseph and Sam Keane. £17.50. Wyvern Thursday 19th to Saturday 28th (excluding Sun 22nd) Swindon Music Festival. See www. swindonmusicfestival.co.uk Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th.

Mon - Thurs, 7.30pm; Fri and Sat 8pm; Sat 5pm Buddy. The Buddy Holly Story with a multi-talented cast. Wyvern Wednesday 25th, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital. Graeme Adams (oboe) and Clare Toomer (piano)) with works by Richardson, Vaughan Williams, Saint Saens, Grovlez and Kalliwoda. £5, buffet £3.50, Wyvern Saturday 28th, 8pm Swindon Choral Concert. Bach’s Magnificat in D and Handel’s Dixit Dominus will be sung by Swindon Choral Society. £10, under18s free Tickets from Swindon Tourist Information and Brian Taylor Music Wootton Bassett.

Holyrood Church, Groundwell Rd.

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 28

Talks & Activities

Monday 2nd, 7pm - 9.30pm Wake Up and Smell the Coffee.

Enjoy some Fairtrade drinks and food, followed by the screening of the award winning Black Gold - a film about coffee and trade. Free, but donations welcome. Toothill Church, Dunwich Drive Tuesday 3rd, 7.30pm Simon Yates: Beyond The Void.

Simon takes you to some of the highest and most treacherous peaks in the world, giving a real insight into the mountain environment and extreme mental and physical challenge of climbing. £14. Wyvern Wednesday 4th, 7.30pm An Evening With Blowers. BBC Test Match Special commentator Henry Blofield, undoubtedly the ‘voice of cricket’, talks about his life. £16. Wyvern Tuesday 17th, drop in between 10am and 4pm Creating Texture in Acrylics one day workshop. Free and no need to book.

Framework Art & Craft, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate

Film

Wednesday 4th, 7.45pm I Served the King of England (15) The darkly comic reflections of an ageing anti-hero, and the small but maybe not insignificant part he played in Czechoslovakia’s history. Czech with English subtitles. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 18th, 7.45pm The Diving Bell &The Butterfly (12A) The editor of French Elle magazine was left paralysed by a stroke. In this moving, complex unsentimental film he tells his story. French with English subtitles. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Eastbrook Farm Bishopstone.

Tel: 721659 Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35, BSS House, Cheney Manor. Tel: 513069 Link Centre Westlea. Tel: 445566 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway. Kemble Drive.

Tel: 466646 Swindon Dance Regent Circus.

Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

13/2/09 12:02:53

On in March Theatre

Sunday 1st, 11am

29

Children & Family

Saturdays 14th & 28th Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railworkers bring the days of steam to life.

Normal admission charges. STEAM Saturday 7th, 3pm Big Time Wrestling. This actionpacked show for the whole family returns with a host of new American TheTempest produced by Lanternfish wrestling giants. £10. Wyvern Theatre Company. A dynamic, physi- Sunday 8th, 1pm & 3.30pm cal, action packed production. Suit over 5 years. £9; family £30. Wyvern Tuesday 3rd, 7.30pm The Cherry Orchard by Black-eyed Theatre. The Cherry Orchard returns to its comedic roots, bringing all of its colour, energy and vision to life. Yet where there’s comedy, there’s tragedy too. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 12th to Saturday 14th, 7.30pm A Street Car Named Desire by Ten- The Tales of Peter Rabbit. Join Peter nessee Williams performed by the Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny on their Clarendon Players. Set in the 1930s adventures. With brand new songs in New Orleans, this play was made and beautifully designed scenery the famous in the fifties through the film production with delight fans young and starring Marlon Brando and Vivien old. £9.50; family £30. Wyvern Leigh. £5, £4 concessions, tickets Monday 9th, 11am from Post Office, Wootton Bassett Ker-Ching. An incisive, informative from 7 March. Memorial Hall, Wootand witty new play helps young people ton Bassett look at the role of money in their lives.

Thursday 19th & Friday 20th, 2.30pm Suit ages 11 and over. £5. Wyvern Romeo and Juliet performed by Saturday 21st, 2pm Young Shakespeare Company. Book Organic Farm Walk. A guided walk direct on 0208 368 4828. Wyvern around Eastbrook Farm with owner Friday 20th, 10.30am Helen Browning. Wear waterproof The Tempest performed by Young clothes and footwear. Do not go to Shakespeare Company. Book direct other farms 24 hours before visit. £2/ on 0208 368 4828. Wyvern adult. Meet in farm carpark Friday 20th, 7pm Sunday 22nd Murder Mystery Evening. Enjoy a Mothers’ Day at Lydiard House. sumptuous 3 course meal as you solve Mums go free with admission paying the mystery unfolding before you. accompanying child. Lydiard House Watch the scenes, interrogate susSunday 22nd pects and search for the hidden clues.

Mothers’ Day at Roves Farm. Mums £36. Circle Restaurant, Wyvern free with a paying child. Special willow craft sessions for Mums (with a Saint Patrick’s little help from their offspring). Roves Weekend Dance Farm Moloney School of Irish Dancing Sunday 29th, 1.30pm - 3.30pm Saturday 14 March, 8pm Step Outside. Join a guided walk £10 on the door or call 642368 in the countryside around Lydiard Polish Club, Whitbourne Avenue, Park, approx 5 miles. Meet outside Park South Lydiard House

Swindon’s widest choice of discounted 20ivterhsary ann

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Line Dance with

Midnight Cowboys Monday:

Warneford School, Highworth

Tuesday:

Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street

Thursday: Coleview Community Centre All classes start at 7pm Absolute beginners welcome

Please ring for more details Lewis on 764732

Write a story of Swindon The town’s community radio service Swindon 105.5 has launched its first short story writing competition in conjunction with The Link.

There are three categories: 12 to 16, 17 to 21 and over 22 years of age. The subject is anything you fancy - but should be based in a Swindon context, past, present or future.

The winning three entrants in each category will each receive a certificate, have their stories recorded for broadcast and the over-all winners will also be interviewed, have their stories published at swindonlink.com and receive a book token.

Stories of up to 1,500 words should be submitted by 31 March.

Application forms can be downloaded from www.swindon1055.com

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 29

13/2/09 11:48:47

30

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Book a place at the Mad March Hare

RUNNING, TRIATHLON & ADVENTURE RACING

PERSONAL TRAINING MOVE MORE EAT WELL LIVE LONGER

There are still places available to take part in the Mad March Hare on Sunday 15 March 2009, in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The 2009 Mad March Hare gives the chance for everybody, whatever their fitness or ability, to take part in a 5km or 10km walk or run around Lydiard Park, starting at Greendown School in Grange Park.

This year’s event is dedicated to two members of the Mad March Hare Organising Team, Shirley Garman, right, and Ros Marsh - women who have previously survived breast cancer.

Shirley was diagnosed last year with a brain tumour and is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Ros is courageously fighting bone cancer.

Application forms are available from: www.madmarchhare.org For more information call Helen on 723540 or mail: helen200@btinternet.com.

The entry fee goes direct to Breakthrough Breast Cancer and participants are asked to collect sponsorship to supplement the fundraising.

The Mad March Hare is supported by Swindon Link and sponsored by Legal & General, The Big Adventure Store, Les Slinn Personal Training, Triumph, Doves Farm, Greendown Community School & Swindon Borough Council – Challenge Swindon

• PERSONAL TRAINING in our well equipped gym or your home • WEIGHT LOSS & diet advice • FAMILY EXERCISE packages • FUN, RELAXED, PRIVATE environment Let LES and his team motivate and guide you to a HEALTHIER lifestyle Unit 86, Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX Email: info@lspersonaltraining.com Tel: 0845 4718416 www.lspersonaltraining.com

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Running for Headway

Clare Slinn from Haydon Wick will be running the London marathon on 26 April in aid of Swindon’s Headway which helps rebuild lives after head injury.

The charity has a special place for Clare as her mother was given great support and help during recovery after a car accident several years ago. Help her at: www.justgiving.com/clareslinn

13/2/09 12:03:34

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Mr and Mrs Marathon

Keen runner, Matt Lawrence has found it much easier to find the motivation to brave the elements as he trains for the London Marathon now that his wife Natalie has joined him. three peaks chalMatt has comlenge for Meninpleted several gitis Trust. half marathons Natalie, who and 10k races but works as an A&E Natalie only took nurse at the Great up running in reWestern Hospicent months. “On tal, wants to raise a weekend, we both £500 for Child Beknow we have to go reavement Chariout and run and gee ty which supports each other up,” said families who have Matt. “You don’t lost a child, and always want to do bereaved children. it when it’s wet and She has found the miserable and that resources providhelps.”

Although the couple are work- ed by this small charity a great help ing as a team to encourage each during difficult times at work.

Although they will cross the start other, they don’t run together, Matt revealed. “We train separately line at different start times on 26 because Nat says I’m too noisy April, the couple plan to keep in running alongside her and I talk touch by mobile phone as they run.

Natalie wants to finish in five hours too much.”

Running in aid of Meningitis UK, and Matt hopes to break the four a charity working to find a vaccine and a half hour barrier. for the disease, Matt hopes to raise www.justgiving.com/matthewat least £1,500. It is a cause close lawrence to his heart and he has previously www.justgiving.com/Natalielawtaken part in a sky dive and the rence

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Isambard players are champs above their age

The girls under 14 badminton team took the Wiltshire county championship at the first time of asking in January.

Following victory in the Swindon schools qualifying round, they went on to represent Swindon at the county tournament in Tidworth without losing one game in either singles or doubles matches.

This achievement was special as the team of three Year 8 players and one from Year 7 were playing against girls from Year 9.

They compete in South West finals Clare Ballamy, Scarlett Walters, Helen Conway, Cathy Ke on 27 February in Bournemouth.

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 31

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Trekking to support children

Middleleaze couple Wendy and Matt Trigg are facing the challenge of a lifetime as they gear up for a 40k trek along the Amalfi coastline in aid of the Openwork Foundation.

The trek which starts on 29 May for the foundation, which supports will be tougher than being on TV vulnerable children and young says Wendy who appeared and won people in their aim to achieve ‘The Weakest Link’ at the end of a more independent future for January. “We’ve walked up Mount themselves.

Sponsor the couple at their online Snowdon a few times but this will still be a very tough challenge due to fundraising pages: the long distance in a few days,” said www.justgiving.com/wendytrigWendy. “By contrast facing Anne gamalfi Robinson was much easier.” www.justgiving.com/matttriggaIt will all be worthwhile if she malfi and Matt succeed in raising £4,000

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ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS RUNNING COURSES In just 10 weeks we will help you run non stop for 30 minutes (approx. 5km)

Community Fitness Club Monday 7pm - 7.45pm St Francis Primary School, Tawhill Aerotone with Joanne Wednesday 7pm - 7.45pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Rodbourne. Step ‘n’ Sculpt with Ian Thursday 7pm - 7.45pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Body Active with Joanne Classes suitable for beginners to advanced exercisers aged 14 and over. Just turn up, only £4 per class. Pay for the term and get one free class. For class descriptions and to book your place online visit www.bpmactive.co.uk/fitness

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Bargain workout

bpm active have come up with a great price for the last 6 weeks of its pre-Easter Body Active cardio fitness and strength workout course on Thursdays at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw.

The cost is just £20 which works out at £3.20 per 45 minute session.

All classes are suitable for beginners to advanced exercisers aged 14 and over. All instructors are fully qualified, insured and are registered with the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) which ensures participants receive safe and effective instruction from instructors at the top of the field.

Joanne Baker, who takes the Shaw course, has recently completed an updated training in body conditioning and is keen to apply new techniques in her teaching.

Book a place on 0773 242 7882. www.bpmactive.co.uk

Gross mistake

Last month we incorrectly stated that Cambridge Diet consultant Lisa Curtis had helped clients lose 280lbs during 2008.

In fact her clients shed a whopping 280 stones or 3,920lbs.

Call Lisa on 07776 042690 if you’ve got some pounds to add to this big number.

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21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 32

Chiropody/Podiatry treatment in the comfort of your own home Evenings and weekends Call Katie Boichat Podiatrist/Chiropodist

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Sports’ Council to boost local performance

British Olympian Anna Hemmings gave an inspirational talk at the launch of the Swindon Sports Council which saw £10,000 in grant aid presented to local sports organisations and £500 each to two promising individuals - Evie Reynolds and Kaya Gould.

The formation of the Sports’ Council comes after three years work as a sports forum to draw together people involved in all aspects of sport delivery and development in the town.

Anna, a canoeist at the Beijing Olympics, said Swindon was establishing an important link between participants and organisers of sports at a local, regional and national level.

“Sports’ councils have such a huge impact on the grassroots, in terms of recognition, encouragement Anna with tennis player Evie Reynolds and Kaya and funding support. The Gould who received grants to help with their training volunteers who ran local and travelling costs. Evie, 11, from Freshbrook attends organisations when I was Wootton Bassett School. The Delta Tennis Centre young and first starting player is one of the Wiltshire under 12s squad. Kaya, out were so important in 12, from Park South attends Churchfields and trains with the Esprit Gymnastic Club. She was becoming helping me achieve my a champion dancer until she discovered gymnastics goals.” and is aiming for the Olympics Some 50 sports clubs, colleges, schools and teachers, closely involved in the developvoluntary and business organisa- ment of sports’ programmes, and tions form the Swindon Sports’ development of new sports’ clubs Council, which is autonomous of and coaching provision.

For details call Rob Allen on the borough council, and will meet twice a year to share information, 07986 264775. www.swindonsportsforum.org ideas and concerns. It will also be

Junior footballers feel financial strain

Blunsdon Colts FC fear rising costs could mean youngsters miss out on playing football and are seeking sponsorship to keep fees down.

The club takes children aged financial demands are high. To be FA five and over from all over North affiliated, each of the twelve team Swindon; 125 train each week and managers had to take a course costplay for 12 teams. But match fees, ing £65 to £85 each. CRB checks for kit costs and pitch hire have all all the parents involved also have increased and they are finding it to come out of the funds and new kit costs £300 a time. difficult to keep going.

“On a small scale we achieve a “Each season, we see clubs fold and we don’t want that to happen lot with just volunteers running to Blunsdon Colts,” said commit- the club,” said Nicola. “It’s not all tee member, Nicola Drew. “We’re about winning; it’s about fun. There looking for sponsorship, donations; are children who want to play and anything that would help make they’re not all David Beckham. It’s a good start to next season. The about taking part, getting out there alternative is raising fees which and enjoying it; and it’s sociable for will make it difficult for hard the parents as well.”

To become a club sponsor, call pressed parents, and really sad for club chairman Ian Drew 726867. the players.” www.blunsdoncoltsfc.co.uk Apart from obvious costs, other

Under 7’s coach needed Lydiard Youth FC are urgently looking to recruit a new coach for their under 7’s squad for the 2009/2010.

The person will need an enhanced FA CRB check and to attain the FA Level 1 Coaching Certificate. Fees will be paid by the club and there will be back up from one of the other qualified coaches.

For details contact Pat Butler on 347553 or mail: secretary@ lydiardyouthfc.co.uk www.lydiardyouthfc.co.uk

13/2/09 14:54:07

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Parents put shoulder behind school’s rugby success

Polished to Perfection

Greendown School’s rugby team have been doing well on the pitch and they’re going to get better thanks to a scrummaging machine bought with a grant from the Friends’ Association.

However getting the cash was no pushover for the youngsters as Josh Jefferies, captain, and Adam Stevens, vice captain, had to make some powerful presentation moves to convince a Dragon’s Den panel that they really needed the extra kit.

“We were impressed by the research and preparation the boys put in,” said Friends of Greendown School (FROGs) treasurer Julie Porter. “They put a good case and explained the costs and benefits of having a scrum machine. We certainly learnt a lot more about rugby.”

Coach Alex Buchalik said the game is taking a hold at the school. “Our Year 10 squad have only lost three games in four years, all against rugby playing private schools. The machine will improve strength and technique so that teams can play better and the players suffer fewer injuries.”

Julie Porter and chair Nicky Howard and enthusiastic Year 7 players

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Competition success for new martial arts club

Paul Gregory , 32, from Priory Vale, has shown he’s a mean person to mess with by winning gold in the national Aiuchi Jiu Jitsu competition held at the beginning of the year.

Aiuchi Jiu Jitsu is a modern self-defence based martial art and Paul won his gold by defending himself against a variety of armed and unarmed attackers with points awarded for the range of techniques and his style, suitability and effectiveness.

He competed against over thirty others, both men and women from all around the country in the senior grades category (orange to brown belts). This was particularly good news as the Swindon Aiuchi Jiu New members are always welJitsu Club only formed in Sep- come to watch, try and join For tember 2008. The club trains on details mail: Swindon@aiuchi.

Wednesdays, 7pm to 9pm, at the org or call club instructor Martyn Haydon Centre.

Kingsbury on 07713715804.

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 33

CHERRI ANN MATTHEWS IIHHT FICHT ATLM MIfL

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High flying instructor needed

Somersaults Trampoline Club is looking for a Level 2+ trampoline instructor to work alongside club organiser Nikki Baker at Link Centre.

The job is for four and three quarter hours on Tuesday 4pm to 5:45pm and Thursday 3.30pm to 6.30pm.

For details mail Nikki at: nbaker@swindon.gov.uk or call 702885. www.somersaultstrampolineclub.co.uk

33

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13/2/09 12:04:52

34

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Janet’s Puppy Skool Have some fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes 3 Playskool for puppies 3 Adult beginners/improvers 3 Senior Skool/advanced classes 3 One to one advice & training 3 Fun workshops

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk for April course details

Janet Garrett

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Tel: 01793 727158 Janet.garrett@virgin.net

Two years of training canine good citizens

Celebrating the second birthday of her Puppy Skool, Janet Garrett from Haydon Wick recalled how things could have been very different if not for an ultimatum.

Although running When she first started out in busi- can give up the clothes, her own business is ness, the plan was to combine part shoes and handbags, demanding, she has time work as a bilingual PA with I’m sure you’ll make no regrets. “It’s given her own enterprise. However, after it work.” me freedom and time Janet studied for a three month trial, she was asked to spend with my famto return to work full time. A quick three years to gain ily, particularly the decision had to be made: quit or qualifications in cagrandchildren. give up her dream. After drawing nine psychology and “I’ve probably nevup a business plan on the back of behaviour. She was er worked so hard in an envelope, she took the plunge certain that there was my life but it’s all for a need for her type of and handed in her notice. me and it’s what I “In those three months, I enjoyed training in Swindon myself so much it was lovely and the and her hunch proved right. There know. It’s natural and feels right results were fantastic. My husband is always a waiting list for classes to do this.” www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk said, if you’re brave enough and and the school is thriving.

Bowlers needed: must be blind as a bat

Professional friendly service for every aspect of your dog’s grooming needs Collection & delivery service Evening and weekend appointments available

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It may sound like the usual bowling banter, but when one group of regulars at Tenpin tell each other they are blind as bats, it’s more than a figure of speech.

Swindon Bats are blind and visu- the blind bowlers but those who are usual basket weaving and knitting ally impaired bowlers who meet on visually impaired usually manage which is OK for some but we feel Mondays at TenPin, Shaw Ridge. without it. Sighted pin spotters let that just because you have poor Launched just over two years ago, them know roughly where to aim vision, it doesn’t mean active life has to stop.” they have already achieved third the next ball.

As well as bowling, Bats have As well as competing in a naplace in a national competition. In 2007, team member Russell Riggs tional league, Bats also have regular tried acoustic rifle shooting and from Haydon Wick, represented matches against staff from Zurich archery and have plans to go cycling who play some games blindfolded and white water rafting. There are Great Britain in Australia.

Chair Derek Smith said people to appreciate how it feels for their also regular trips to the theatre and museums, meals out and guest are surprised to hear about his opponents.

“There aren’t many clubs in speakers at Monday evening meethobby and can’t imagine how it is possible. He explained that a the area for visually impaired ing. New members are welcome. handrail is used for guidance by people,” said Derek. “There is the Call Derek on 338415.

Give Your Pet a Boost

at Thameswood Veterinary Clinics We understand that while trying to juggle work and family commitments, your pet’s annual vaccinations can lapse in the midst of the chaos.

Immunity from the vaccine does not last forever hence the need for a top up ‘Booster’ vaccination once a year.

We can help you put your pet’s vaccinations back on track protecting him from contracting one of several potential contagious diseases; without putting too much strain on your purse strings.

Thameswood Veterinary Clinics are holding a Vaccination Amnesty. An amnesty is a great way to get your pet’s vaccination status up to date at a minimal cost to you. For a limited period we will give your pet a complete two to three week course of vaccines for the cost of a single booster.

A saving of up to £21.00.

Your pet will also receive a full general health check to ensure he is in tip top condition.

So, if you have a cat or dog over the age of six months not vaccinated or whose vaccination has lapsed for more than a year since a booster, delay no more and contact our Client Care Team on 526780 / 511267 or log on to our website: www.thameswoodvets.co.uk for more information and a voucher.

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 34

“Making life better for you and Care - always your pet”

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62 - 64 Purton Rd Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way) Tel: 01793 526780 Open: Mon to Fri, 9am - 6.30pm Sat 9am - 12noon

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www.thameswoodvets.co.uk 24 Hour Emergency Service. Tel: 01793 526780

13/2/09 12:06:07

swindonlink.com • March 2009

35

Sculptor would like to complete the job

The February Link featured Marion Pryor from Stratton who responded to an appeal on behalf of Swindon Mayor Steve Wakefield for models of The Watchers - the sculpture of three figures and a dog at Toothill Village Centre.

We were also contacted by Heidi Bellmore from Redhouse who modelled for the child in the sculpture over 30 year ago. She explained that her mother Pat Elmore assisted sculptor Carlton Attwood to complete the work shortly before he died in 1982.

Pat with a bust of Carlton Attwood and a resin miniature of The Watchers

Pat, from Longcot, said she was just starting as a professional sculptor when Carlton was commissioned to make a work for Toothill.

“Carlton was very ill when I joined him to help complete The Watchers.

He had designed the work and made some small scale models but it was too difficult to apply the layers of cement fondue which I did, shaping the features. The man is my husband, the woman is a bit of self portrait and the child is my daughter.”

Pat also made the scale models in concrete and cast resin miniatures that were given to councillors when the work was unveiled.

However she would very much like to finish the job properly.

“Thamesdown Council would not pay for The Watchers to be cast in bronze. Cement fondue is not a durable material and I’m not surprised that vandalism and the weather has damaged the sculpture.

“Finishing the job in bronze would make it a permanent feature.

It’s a commission I’d like to take on but it would cost quite a lot of money to complete.”

For the moment Toothill Primary will receive a medium size copy of The Watcher presented by Marion Pryor, which can displayed outdoors, and a miniature donated

by Pat. www.patelmore.co.uk

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 35

13/2/09 12:07:03

36

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Shimmy for Swindon

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Blackford Timber Supplies

Belly dance teacher Sue Dickinson is organising the town’s first ever Hafla in aid of Prospect Hospice on Friday 27 March, 7.30pm to 11pm.

The evening will involve everybody in belly dancing with help from special guest performer Nikki Livermore Souk of Simply Shimmy.

There will also be taster head and shoulder massage sessions (bring a towel to take part) Tickets costs £7 and participants are asked to bring a plate of food to share.

The evening takes place at Coleview Community Centre,Towcester Road, Coleview, Swindon.

For tickets call Sue Dickinson on 538288 or 07905 552360, or mail: su- Sue Dickinson, left, with Liz Szymczak and Mary Martin sanbickell@hotmail.com

Wildflower planters wanted at The Glades

Volunteers are needed to help plant wildflowers in West Swindon on Sunday 15 March, 2pm to 4pm.

Over the last nine months workers on the Probation Service community payback scheme have been cutting back overgrown trees and clearing away vegetation in a section of Peatmoor Copse called The Glades.

The aim is to re-establish, with help from Swindon FAB (Flowers & Butterflies), two meadows which existed in the early 1980s before housing development started.

For the first ever community flower plant, John Ball of FAB will supply flowers suitable for different habitats from the FAB nursery in Cheney Manor, many of which have been grown with help from members of DASH - Discovering Autistic Spectrum Happiness.

For more information about the Peatmoor wildflower plant, mail: roger_ogle@mac.com or call 608840.

Peatmoor bear’s Peru trek bears fruit

A sponsored trek along the Inca trail last year by Peatmoor Primary School teaching assistant Brenda Moody is seeing results in the school grounds.

In a reversal of the Paddington Bear story, she took the school mascot to darkest Peru, to help her raise money for the rebuilding of the school’s pond and ecology area.

Work on the £15,000 project is nearly complete and has been paid for by sponsorship, charity curry nights and a grant from Legal and General.

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13/2/09 12:07:30

swindonlink.com • March 2009

SKI’S TREES

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38

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Mobile Car Repairs

Fire station starts 50 year celebration with ladies’ challenge

Firefighters at Swindon Central Fire Station will be marking its fiftieth anniversary with a series of events during 2009 including a Special Day for Ladies at RAF Hullavington airfield on Sunday 17 May in aid of The Fire Fighters’ Charity.

This is a chance of a lifetime to sions. Registration • Servicing try manoeuvring a range of differ- is £10 and partici• Repairs ent vehicles including fire engines, pants are asked to • Brakes police cars, ambulances, JCBs, ar- raise at least £90 in • Exhausts ticulated lorries, buses and possibly sponsorship. Prizes • M.O.T. even a tank, all donated for the day will be awarded to entrants achievby local organisations.

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5.30pm WINTER Register for the event at ✶ vehicle sales CHECKS www.ladiesdrivingchallenge. ✶ servicing to light commercials co.uk or call 07717 895424 for Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards a registration pack.

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21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 38

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12/2/09 10:58:52

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Sayonara Shaw Ridge

Shaw Ridge Primary School said farewell to the Gonda family, from Shaw, who have returned to Japan after six years in Swindon with Honda.

Before the family departed at half term, Swindon’s well known group of Honda wives organised a day of Japanese culture at the school to mark an educational and cultural link with a primary school outside Tokyo.

Headteacher Sally Cowell said the whole school were sad to see the Gondas leave. “Miki and Shodori are at Shaw Ridge and Kenshiro started in Year 5 and left us last summer to go to Bradon Forest.

“Mrs Gonda was keen to have a Japan day before leaving and it was a great opportunity to celebrate our link up with Takanezwa Nishi school.

Our children have been comparing schools through web sites. They’re much bigger with 550 pupils and the children were surprised that well over 300 take a hot lunch in school and are expected to clean the school at the end of the day.”

Mrs Gonda said it will take time to get used to living in Japan again.

“Japanese life is much busier and noisy, and also strict with time; I like living in Swindon because it’s much more slow and relaxing.”

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39

Call Emma on 0117 230 9053 emma@elfsitters.co.uk www.elfsitters.co.uk All sitters hold an enhanced CRB disclosure

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Sally Cowell, with the Japanese children at her school and Honda mums

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13/2/09 12:12:18

West Swindon Plumbing Call Charlie for a free no obligation quote on all your plumbing needs EXAMPLE PRICING: Bathrooms fitted from £180 Leaking taps sorted from £20 Outside taps fitted from £30 No callout charge. OAP discount All work guaranteed.

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& Property Renovation Services Fuse board upgrade, Rewiring, New sockets, Lighting, Cooker & Shower installations No job too small Kitchen & Bathroom refits and anything else in between Free quotations and no call out charge Call Iain on 01793 851374 or 07860 689695 e-mail: iain@dixiain.co.uk Part P Approved Contractor

dixiain PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. ‘No job too small’

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 078899 21570

Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon

DAY2DAY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

D & M Enterprises is now known as DAY2DAY Property Maintenance, part of DAY2DAY Property Management LANDLORDS - use us as your management company and we will give you discount on your property maintenance • Kitchens & bathrooms • All types of worktops - granite, solid and real wood • Ceramic tiling • All types of flooring - laminate & real wood • All types of fencing, decking & pagodas • Painting & decorating Give us a try, for a free no obligation quote

call Jeff on 07747 606344 24 hr ansaphone: 01793 700796

MERLIN BATHROOMS

Complete bathroom installations Supply & fit or fit only Established 21 years Fully insured

Call Peter on FREEPHONE 0800 6118144

doctor glass

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

Call: 01793 852739 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 40

L.J. TILING

40

Professional, experienced tiler Specialist in all aspects of the trade • Walls & floors • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Conservatories Call Leon for a free, no obligation quote on: 01793 524147 or 07919 255673

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS • Kitchen/Bathroom Installations • Painting & Decorating • Plumbing • Tiling • Minor Electrical • Carpentry • Garden landscaping/Maintenance • Patios & Decking

Tel: 01793 721677 Mobile 07919415849

PHONE 4 PHIL QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC. Local, reliable & competitive prices

HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241

• Electrical installations and testing (Part P certified) • In car entertainment installations at your door or workplace • Intruder alarms supplied and installed • Satellite and aerial installations • Structured cabling and network design

Telephone 07810 203764/07903 250811 sales@soundfit.co.uk www.soundfit.co.uk

HG

Carpentry & Joinery Services

•PLASTERING •DECORATING •COVING •KITCHEN FITTING •TILING •FASCIAS/GUTTERING •PATIOS •FENCING . . . and much more!

NO JOB TOO SMALL

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

P R O P E RT Y MAINTENANCE

CALL ANDY FOR A FREE QUOTATION

07769 707535 01793 323242

Wayne’s ONE2 ONE

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

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

For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

13/2/09 14:35:24

41

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out • Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Complete bathrooms refitted • Radiators changed • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

PB Plastering & Bricklaying General Building Services

Including Patios & Fencing Block Paved Driveways Skirting & Coving Wall & Floor Tiling Painting & Decorating Call Pete

Tel: 01793 542654 Mob: 07790 283186

adept

Repairs & Maintenance

Electrical

(inc. insp & test)

Plumbing Domestic/Commercial Design, installations & repairs Fully insured Guaranteed work

Freephone: 0800 9 553 554 Tel: 01793 491 544 adeptrm@hotmail.com Reliable & Reasonable

GB

PLUMBING SERVICES

• • • • • • • •

DOMESTIC PLUMBING LEAKS & BURST PIPES TAP WASHERS & BALL VALVES IMMERSIONS & HOT WATER CYLINDERS RADIATORS REPLACED TAPS, SINKS & TOILETS FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS WALL & FLOOR TILING

Tel: 01793 524 200 Mobile: 07810 823 966 gbplumbing@hotmail.co.uk

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 41

Need a carpenter & joiner?

& Kitchens Complete installations to dripping taps Bathrooms

Ideas to reality

♦ Plumbing inc. pumped showers, towel warmers ♦ Electrics ♦ Wall & floor tiling ♦ Carpentry ♦ Laminate & wood flooring ♦ Appliance installation ♦ Also other home improvements No job too small

Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 887766 Mobile: 07979 267757

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS Extensions/Rewires New Installations Testing and Inspection Security Lighting Showers & Fuseboxes Free Quotes 24 hour call out facility

01793 878609 07885 543294

HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE • Kitchen/bathroom upgrades • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps • Flat pack furniture • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham

Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

TREVOR WYSE Painter & Decorator

For your ‘Superior Interior’ • Wallpaper specialist • Coving • Dado Rails • Special Effects • Tiling

Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

email: trevorwyse@uwclub.net www.trevorwyse.co.uk

call C.R. Carpentry

Fully qualified, professional carpentry and joinery service.

C.R. Carpentry & Joinery offers quality craftsmen services in the Wiltshire & Oxfordshire area at very competitive prices: • Fitted Wardrobes/Storage • Fitted Bedroom Flat Packs • Replacement Doors • Laminated Floors • Decking/Patios • Household Repairs/General Maintenance FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES Contact Clive Reid on:

Tel: 01793 871114 Mobile: 07590 807637

Email: crcarpentry@btinternet.com

ALL SEASONS 24 HR PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with

TileSure

Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed

A local reliable & friendly service 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

MILESTONE Building Services

GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking, landscape gardening Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring No job too small • Free estimates

Qualified tradesman, 28 years experience

Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

Stylish Bathrooms

COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING SERVICES

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

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

01793 320773 07779 006360

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com

MD BUILDERS

❖ Gas and LPG ❖ Boiler servicing & breakdowns ❖ Boiler exchange ❖ Full system installation ❖ Landlord safety checks ❖ Power flush ❖ Plumbing ❖ Emergency call outs Reliable friendly service

Competitive rates Tel. 01793 887419 Mob. 07912 882090 countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

OVER TEN YEARS’ EXPERIENCE

Home improvements Carpentry Plastering Fencing Block paving No job too small

SHERIDAN WORKTOP FITTING ACCREDITATION

For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm

Carpentry, fitted kitchens, bathrooms, wetrooms and plastering

We are able to fit granite and Corian worktops as well as laminate and solid wood

FREE WRITTEN QUOTATIONS ON REQUEST

Contact a member of our team for more details

WORK GUARANTEED TO A HIGH STANDARD

We aim to finish your job to your high standards

Please contact us on:

07812 180535

01793 528158

ajmpropertymaintenance@yahoo.co.uk

12/2/09 11:24:25

42

RS

batHROOms

Plumbing

Bathrooms & Kitchens

from design to installation

Wall & Floor Tiling For a free estimate Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361 www.rsbathrooms.com

& Heating ❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ all types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

DeCORatOR

Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating

free estImAtes

gutteRing

ain te

reduCtIons for oAPs

builDing seRviCes

Paul Rhind

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

DeCORatOR Mark Ponting Painting & Decorating inc. Wall PaPering

Domestic and commercial

UPVC Guttering and Fascias Renewed • Repaired Free advice and quotation 20 years experience

Call Craig on 01793 728391 or 07789 325515

maintenanCe

Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 42

DeCORatOR

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING

Independent decorator specialising in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating ✓ Domestic and small commercial ✓ Insurance work undertaken ✓ Full Public Liability insurance ✓ Free no obligation quotation ✓ References available Age Concern registered decorator

Heating & Plumbing

Heating & Plumbing

Heating & Plumbing

eP

tel: 01793 727942

Free Quotations

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

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

20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

PlasteRing

PlasteRing

RETIRED TRADES Brian Jones ASSOCIATES Plastering Services Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks

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

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

all work guaranteed

RJ PeaRce

SWINDON PLASTICS

4 Extensions 4 Garage conversions 4 Garden walls & patios 4 Block paved driveways 4 Plastering & coving

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

Id

For free estimate call Paul Comer on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236

InterIor & exterIor

Pr

• High quality experienced workmanship • All work undertaken • A friendly reliable service with references available • Full Public Liability Insurance cover

builDing seRviCes

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

r&

DeCORatOR

Approved Plumber

De cor ato r

batHROOms

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

External rendering Plastering two coat Re-skimming Dry lining Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

Quality Plumbing & Heating

• Central heating installation

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

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

Plumbing

KTL

Plastering

Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes Floor screeding Small building works No job too small

Home: 01793 709811 mobile: 07778 665115

General Plumbing Maintenance Taps, Leaks, Toilets Boiler Replacement/Upgrades Power Flush Full System Installation Full Bathroom & Kitchen Installation

07917 131756 or: plumbing@enlan.co.uk

12/2/09 16:41:47

s

43

carPeNtrY

J S Property Services Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

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

doUBLe GLazING

carPeNtrY

J&R Carpentry Services

Supplied. Installed. Repaired Free estimates, free advice No Salesmen Your local choice

01793 611398 07968 757860

heatING & PLUMBING

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

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

eLectrIcIaN

01793 872054 0770 480 1959

arcelectrics@aol.com • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

hoMe MaINteNaNce

call andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

eLectrIcIaN

SERVICES Plumbing & Heating Prompt & Efficient Service Fixed Quotations No Call Out Charge

Call Nick on: 07875 088864

PLUMBING

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

rooFING

P.J.J. Flooring ServiceS

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

From an annoying drip to a full bathroom re-fit No call out charge Free quotations Professional & friendly service

07747 752190 01793 529192

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 43

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

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

N I CF National Institute of carpet & Floorlayers

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed 17 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 493119 07970 865883

kItcheN & BathrooM servIces

Steve George

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

All kITChenS FITTed

(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite

ComPleTe BAThroomS FITTed Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture APProved

30 years experienced tradesman

tILING

GILES BROS ● Felt

FLoorING

SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

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

decorator & carPeNtrY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving

• Laminate flooring

• Doors & skirting

replacement

• Kitchen • Bathroom

internal alterations

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

Arc electrical Services ltd Windows, Doors, Conservatories

carPeNtrY

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

❇ ❇ ❇

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

tILING

TileSure

CeramiC Tiling

Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with

ALL SEASONS 24 HR

PLumbiNg & HEAtiNg SERvicES Quality Finish

Call maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

12/2/09 16:42:03

44

ACCOuNtANCy Lynette White MAAT Accountancy Services

FIFTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE OF: Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT returns Payroll - CIS Scheme Final Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625

AErIAL sErVICEs

Chris Payne

aerials & satellite systems ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

No call out charge

Email: lynettewhite48@btinternet.com

BOOk-kEEpING

CArpEt CLEANING

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEArANCE

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

COmputEr suppOrt

• New PCs/Repairs/Upgrades • Virus/Data Recovery & Backup • Internet & Network Solutions • Home & Business Support For friendly EXPERT advice and PROMPT on-site service:

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363

EXErCIsE & hEALth

ExErcisE and HEaltH consultancy Shaun McDonald MSc, BSc, PGCE PERSONAL TRAINING DIET AND EXERCISE PROGRAMMES TO SUIT YOU WEIGHT MANAGEMENT HELP WITH QUITTING SMOKING HOW TO DEVELOP A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Get advice and help from academically qualiied experts.

Don’t settle for second best.

Whatever your needs we have the program to suit you

tel: 07986 089756 email: shaun@elpis-phm.co.uk www.elpis-phm.co.uk

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 44

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

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

AppLIANCE rEpAIrs

AErIAL sErVICEs

OVEN CLEANING

SWindon oven CleAning

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300

ChIrOprACtOr

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • • • • •

NECK PAIN BACK PAIN HEADACHES SPORTS INJURY CAR ACCIDENT

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

Please call

01793 602454

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

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon

COmputEr suppOrt Com Master’s PC Repairs

Why go anywhere else?

When we’ll come to you.....

✻ Free home & business visits ✻ Jargon free advice & support ✻ Upgrades/repairs ✻ All parts & labour guaranteed ✻ Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC

Member of the British Chiropractic Association & College of Chiropractors. Registered with GCC

www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

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 With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

Tel: 01793 325685 Mob: 07836 671860

OVEN CLEANING

rEmOVALs Single items to full house removals Hourly rates Fully Insured Disposal of unwanted items

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362

Professional, friendly and reliable

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

www.robbinsremovals.com info@robbinsremovals.com

Last minute bookings We guarantee to beat any written quote

Tel - 07876 338025

12/2/09 16:51:14

45

Get the most out of these tough times

bRIDALWEAR

Calling all brides to be!

You Can’t afford to miss the harmonY brides ex-sample sale

saturdaY 4th & sundaY 5th april

all to make way for stunning new stock ✷ Stunning Bridal gowns from £100 ✷ Adult bridesmaid dresses from £50 ✷ Child bridesmaids from £40 ✷ Adult shoes from £25 ✷ Child shoes from £10 ✷ Tiaras & jewellery and much more….

for details call: 01793 613000 or www:harmonybrides.co.uk devizes road, old town, swindon sn1 4bg

CLEANING

CLEANING

Bluebelles Cleaning

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

We can clean your home for you and offer a quality service • Weekly, fortnightly & one-off cleans • Fully insured and pet friendly • Reliable and trustworthy • References available • Local business • Ironing service also available For a free quotation or further information call Mandy on

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

07955 374 201

GARAGE DooRS juST Pull uP, PreSS A buTTon AnD Drive in

The Automatic Choice

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at

The GArAGe Door CenTre Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

01793 513796

email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

10% discount with this advert

REMoVALS

White Van Man SinGle itemS moved anywhere in Swindon for £20!

Great house removal prices

Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed 7 days a week, up to 9pm Fully insured. Call for a free quote

Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 45

VHS to DVD Transfer VHS to DVD plus all Tapes & Slides • 8mm & 16mm Cinefilm • Frame-by-Frame, Broadcast standard • All Camcorder formats DV, Hi8 etc.

• Transfer your family’s heritage onto DVD • Photos & Slides onto CD or DVD • Obsolete formats, i.e. Betamax, Video2000, Laserdisc etc.

• Discounts for large collections

SAVE THOSE MEMORIES Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co .uk DON’T DELAY SAVE THOSE MEMORIES TODAY

Now is perhaps the time to have a good look around the house and take stock of the various valuables and collections built up during the good times. Is it time to say goodbye to some of them?

Often the biggest windfalls come from unexpected corners. Marc Tielemans, right, who runs Let Us Auction It, Wiltshire’s only professional eBay auctioneering business, says that in many cases people just don’t realise the treasures they have around the house.

Often, for example when an elderly relative passes away, the most valuable items are simply dumped or removed by the house clearance people. Things like World War greeting cards, military uniforms, badges and medals, antique jewellery, old watches and clocks, autograph books, toy soldiers and tinplate toys or GWR memorabilia all have value.

Old cameras, old records, gramophones, instruments, vintage music sheets or Freemason regalia can potentially be worth a lot of money.

If you do find something unusual and are not sure what it may be worth, or you want to sell an item, help and advice is available from

Let Us Auction It. They will take professional photos and auction your valuables on the internet where they will be seen by millions of potential buyers.

Marc said, “with the value of Sterling so low at the moment, foreign buyers from all over the world are returning in large numbers and paying top money for all things British.”

Realise cash with Let Us Auction It by calling 522204 or visiting them at BizSpace, BSS House on Cheney Manor Industrial Estate.

See their advertisement on page 5.

What about free stuff?

Managing on a tight budget needn’t mean going without if you know the right places to look LETS trade without cash Using its own currency, the Brunel, Swindon’s Local Exchange and Trading Scheme allows people to trade their skills and time. Coordinator, Mike Thomas, has seen an increase in enquiries about the scheme in recent months.

Services on offer include gardening, job seeking advice, babysitting, yoga and alternative medicine. There is a shortage of building and maintenance skills such as plumbing and plastering.

People registering with LETS set a price in Brunels for their services and their details are made available to all other members. Find out more at: www.fiohnetwork.org/swindonlets Give it away!

In the most altruistic online community, Freecycle members simply give away unwanted items. It sounds too good to be true, but it works. People gain valuable space at home and others acquire fridges, sofas, TVs and PCs. There are over 7000 members of Swindon’s group which is simple to join at: www.SwindonFreecyle.co.uk Low cost craft items, paint & DIY materials Swindon Children’s Scrapstore at Cheney Manor has made an art of turning waste into play and craft materials. It has shelves packed with clean waste collected from local companies, office equipment and stationery plus new, low price art supplies.

The Scrapstore also has large quantities of paint suitable for home improvement projects costing £1 a tin. www.scrapstore.co.uk Wonderful way to furnish the office Through its Waste to Wonder initiative, Green Standards make top quality furniture available to the general public at hugely discounted prices, free to charities and schools.

They take unwanted furniture and office supplies from large companies and have been so successful that they plan to expand into a second warehouse. The unit at South Marson is open for people to drop in and browse. Furniture is marked with a guide donation but the charity works to fit in with people’s budget. “Instead of going to Ikea or the lower end stores, people can come here and get top rate furniture for a similar cost,” said manager Olivia McCann.

Waste to Wonder is at Unit 7, Oaktree Business Centre, Spitfire Way. Call 0870 240 1445 for opening times.

13/2/09 12:13:14

46

swindonlink.com • March 2009 New date for Prospect’s Winter Walk of Thoughts

Samaritans call for good listeners to offer their essential skill

The snow put paid to the sponsored family walk at the Liddington Hotel in February and it will now take place on Sunday 1 March.

Join other Prospect Hospice supporters covering four miles set in 150 There is no typical Samaritan volunteer and anyone could have what acres of picturesque Wiltshire Downland. it takes, says director of the Swindon branch, Paul Bentley.

New registrations are being accepted via www.prospect-hospice.net Before committing to an eight New recruits are needed to make or by calling the fundraising office on 815142. sure that Samaritans can keep their week training course, people are call centre open 24 hours a day, invited to talk to other volunteers and attend a recruitment day. This every day.

Eye opening coffee experience At present there are 100 vol- is an opportunity to learn more Toothill Church is hosting a Wake Up & Smell the Coffee evening on unteers but at least 25 more are about the work through practical Monday 2 March, 7pm to 9.30pm. needed to bring the branch up exercises.After completing trainEnjoy Fairtrade drinks and food, followed by the screening of Black Gold, to full strength. Because of this ing, Samaritans commit to cover an award winning film which exposes the contrast between westerners shortage there are times when the six shifts every eight weeks. enjoying designer lattes and cappuccinos and the poor working condi- Swindon branch has to close for To find out more call 08705 tions, injustice and poverty suffered by Ethiopian coffee growers. some shifts and calls are diverted 627282.

Entry is free, donations welcome. www.samaritans.org to other branches.

Paul has been a Samaritan for 10 years after a friend convinced him that he had the necessary qualities.

We believe that Jesus Christ is able Voice is a leading charity in advocacy and independent “It’s extremely fulfilling and keeps to forgive our past, give meaning to services to children in care and young people in secure me busy. It makes me appreciate the present and hope for the future settings. Working with us, you can make a genuine health and general wellbeing. difference to the lives of children and young people.

So many people out there aren’t enjoying good quality emotional Since June 2008, Voice has been running a Children’s Rights service for Swindon. health.”

We are looking for people, who are committed to upholding the rights of children He added that he enjoys meeting and young people, to be FREELANCE SESSIONAL ADVOCATES. the other volunteers. “We come You will need a thorough understanding of the principles and practice of from all walks of life but when we advocacy and experience of working with children and young people in a professional capacity. Successful candidates will be paid £19 per hour get here, we’re all the same.”

Sunday services are at (after accreditation) plus travel time/travelling expenses.

“There isn’t a typical Samaritans 10am & 6.30pm For an application pack email: recruit@voiceyp.org person but they’ll be somebody For further information you can or telephone: 0207 520 3775 who has the capacity to listen to www.voiceyp.org either ring (01793) 873050; other people and not make judgee-mail: office@freshbrook.org Closing date for applications: 12th March 2009 ments about the situations they are Voice - working towards quality through equality and the development of a diverse workforce. or visit: www.freshbook.org hearing about and who has a bit of Voice is the working name of Voice for the Child in Care. Registered charity No. 1046207. Company No. 3050826 “the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23) humility about them.”

Midwe ek Babies & Toddle rs Group (Wed)

Alpha

Alpha Courses in Midwe ek Small Groups n tow the oss Homes acr

Join us, Sundays from 10:30am at the Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea, for a time of family worship & bible teaching

Kids Church & Ignite

call the church For more information 130 or visit 526 office on 01793 ww w.gatewaychurchsw

indon.org.uk

Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

21-52 March 09 Ext.indd 46

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

11-18’s Youth Work

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons

9am 11am

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

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

12/2/09 11:18:12

swindonlink.com • March 2009

Afghan children in need of town’s help

Sahar Gul, below, inspired by The Link’s reporting of the Mayor of Swindon’s Christmas appeal for football kit to help the RAF make community links around their base in Afghanistan, is hoping people will help to support an Afghan run charity in his country. tion that is infecting rupt officials can be rooted out.

He escaped from all the positive work “Afghan people are very tired of Pakistan to Britain in to stabilise the coun- war and corruption; they want hope 2005 as the number try, most of which is and to be given the chance to stand of death threats from not under attack from on their own feet. extremists increased.

“Aschiana is helping thousands extremists. “There Having learnt Engare many tensions in of children and families. During lish at the University Afghanistan because Taliban times they secretly ran of Peshawar, Sahar the aid money is not classes for girls and the founder Mr worked for the governalways being spent in Yousef was imprisoned for this. ment and was respon“I would like Swindon people to the right place,” said sible for Afghan refuSahar. “Because of know more about their work and gees which brought government corrup- perhaps we can have a meeting to him into contact with Western charitable organisations. tion, western donors say they will discuss ways to help.”

The Link and Sahar are talking to After the 9/11 attack he was taken only give money directly to NGOs on as translator for American forces and to local charities. They in turn the Mayor Steve Wakefield who has searching for Osama bin Laden in are pressured by corrupt officials said he would introduce him to the commander of RAF Lyneham.

Afghanistan but this put him in to hand over aid money.

“The other thing is that aid money harm’s way and eventually it was www.aschiana.org is directed to areas where there Additional research: Edith Glennie clear he would be killed.

He could have gone to the US are Taliban attacks but chose to bring his family to and the places where Swindon because Edward Glennie, things are calm get left his former college maths teacher, out, which means the poorest people there lives in Westlea.

Sahar has maintained links with can be lured by the western NGOs in Afghanistan like extremists.”

However the presSave the Children and the Swiss aid organisation Terra TDH, and also ent Karzai government Aschiana, a children’s charity set could be replaced and up by Afghans. He made a trip to Sahar hopes that corhis home village last year and came Help for families in an back worried about the corrup- Aschiana refugee centre

47

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