March 2010 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

Great Western Railway 175th anniversary events get underway at STEAM on 22 & 23

The big switchover starts in March. Need help or advice? See page 12 & 13

No. 334 March 2010 • Circulation 27,000

the positive newsforce in Swindon

Haiti fundraiser hope for big total

Food charity keeping up with demand Foodbank takes on assistant to collect and distribute supplies to people in crisis. See page 15

Page 3 Photo: Alex Ogle

Westlea at play

MEADOWPARK inspirational education

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Craig Evendon at Swindon Foodbank

Heritage building opens for youth use

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NEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL For boys and girls 4 to 11 years at The Old School House, High Street, Cricklade Opening in September Registration now open Limited spaces available

The first piece of the Westlea Primary School disability play project has been installed - page 17

The Platform Youth Centre in the old railway museum is now operational - page 28

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19/02/2010 11:30

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Curry cashback evenings mark two years and thousands for charity

Since Peatmoor’s Bombay Lounge restaurant launched its community charity nights in association with Swindon Link in February 2008, £32,000 has been raised for a wide range of causes such as Breakthrough Breast Cancer, youth projects, army and air cadets, the England tap dancing team, local pre-schools and primary schools, animal charities and aid projects around the world. culates his profit and sends a cheque to the group. Those who manage to fill the restaurant can expect to receive over £400 cashback. The evenings are open to all and if there is space for the public, some of what they pay will also be donated to the charity. South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove “It’s been a great deal of fun to ofpresenting Hanif with a Parliamentary fer groups the chance to raise money Tiffin Cup chef’s jacket following her by enjoying a meal together,” said nomination last October Hanif. “My peers think I’m a bit crazy giving all the money away, but the feedback we receive from Charity nights are very simple to arrange. Group organisers contact The Link to book a Monday or Tuesday evening, then they bring as many people as possible to the Bombay Lounge. After the event restaurant owner Hanif Robani cal-

group members is tremendous; so many people comment on the friendly ambiance we offer and how enjoyable it is to get together socially.” Many groups have made repeat visits in the last two years and the evenings are now booked up well in advance. To reserve a date for your organisation, check the availability at www.swindonlink.com • Fundraising for Swindon 105.5fm radio studio - see page 27 • Thai school curry evening - page 29

Hanif presenting a cheque for £300 to members of the new 633 Squadron (West Swindon) Air Training Corps after their ﬁrst fundraising event since it was launched on 1 December

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19/02/2010 11:31

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Haiti fundraiser aims for £5,000 target

A joint fundraising evening on 27 February at the De Vere Hotel on Shaw Ridge by the hotel and Peatmoor’s Bombay Lounge restaurant hopes to make a major contribution to the Haiti earthquake appeal. absolutely terrible and “We decided we as the story drops off had to do something as the media agenda, we soon as pictures from have to remember the the earthquake started Haitians will continue to come through,” to suffer for a long time; said Bombay Lounge reconstruction is going owner Hanif Robani. to take years and the “Andrew Spink, the country needs as much manager at the De money as possible.” Vere, immediately went with the idea A father carrying his child of a joint event and past UN soldiers in the kindly donated the aftermath of the earthquake. use of the large funcPhoto: Alex Ogle tion suite. I’m hoping we can raise £5,000 for the Disasters for auction items donated by busiEmergency Committee.” nesses across the town. CYCLE REPAIRS On 27 February 180 guests will Andrew Spink said, “the televienjoy a meal, live music and bid sion images we saw in January were Free collection

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Pupils from St Francis Church of England Primary School in Taw Hill have recorded a CD of new songs they learned especially to raise money for the work of Samaritan’s Purse in Haiti.

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Some of the young singers from St Francis with headteacher Clive Westall and recording coordinator Alison McGuigan of Pop Connections

Headteacher Clive Westall said, “the entire school was involved in making the recording and performing two concerts in aid of the earthquake recovery work. We were scheduled to make the CD anyway, working with a community cohesion music service called Pop Connections, but when we heard about the disaster we decided to

use the experience to raise money for Samaritans Purse, and for the two children the school sponsors in the Philippines. “It was great fun for all the children, and they loved learning the songs. Now we’re just hoping for a number one,” said Clive. The St Francis CD is available from the school reception at £7.

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18/02/2010 11:28

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Haydon flooding works provide important lesson for the future

The remedial work being undertaken by Thames Water to ensure that Haydon Wick does not suffer a repeat of the devastating flood damage of 2007 is scheduled to be completed by the end of March. Richard Hailstone, chairman of as part of the Abbey Meads develop- velopers’ Section 106 contributions the bridges can be safely upgraded. Haydon Wick Parish Council, said ment. It is believed that not having for part of this work. However the Funding for the project would then “residents are on the whole pleased this pumping station in operation Environment Agency is carrying have to be considered against naout surveys to determine whether tional priorities.” with the speed of response of contributed to the flooding. Richard added, “Haydon Wick Thames Water to the problem. The size of the new pipes should ensure Parish Council raised this as an isflood water is accommodated in sue at the time, but the developers assured us that they had carried the future.” The pumping station at Haydon out reliable hydrographic surveys. Wick has also been reinstated as Unfortunately with hindsight these Wiltshire Council plans to build over 3,000 houses between West part of the project, having been proved not to be adequate. Swindon and Purton would be a ‘disaster’ according to John Ferris, “This experience has shown that chairman of Swindon & Cricklade Railway Trust. decommissioned 10 to 15 years ago developers need to be more aware “Our main concern is the in- given to the railway which has had Westlea flood relief of the possibility of future problems creased potential for flooding as plans in development for nearly 20 and contingency plans should be in the car park at Blunsdon station years. It’s as if no-one knows about start date in March place to deal with them.” is regularly under water after the railway.” The installation of a second culvert As contractors prepare to leave only modest periods of rain,” said All of the work undertaken at the under Westlea Drive to increase flow Haydon Wick after two years of John. “More housing and reducing railway is carried out by volunteers of flood water, that was expected to disruption, Thames Avenue is the water holding capacity of the and by supportive businesses. commence in mid-January, will now getting back to normal, with the River Ray floodplain can only make Funding comes almost entirely from start on 22 March. pedestrian crossing opposite the things worse. grants and visitors to the railway. Westlea Drive will be closed and doctors’ surgery being installed “The plan shows several roads www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org should reopen by the end of June. during February half term. sweeping across our railway with Traffic will be diverted away from Tadpole Farm one of them appearing to cut residential areas and Langstone Bridge work being considered S&CR through the Site of Special Scien- Blunsdon Way outside the primary school. Another important component of tific Interest and another crossing Station Oakhurst Proposed the project is the upgrading work on through Mouldon Hill park. or the brook that runs through Haydon He said that Network Rail is in possible Wick from Sevenfields to the River the planning stage of doubling the access The Link is looking for an Riv Ray, including raising its banks and Swindon to Gloucester line and a er R ay experienced sub-editor and replacing several old farm bridges. station with a car park for comInDesign user for a few days Coun Hailstone said, “Swindon muters close to Sparcells is being a month. See details at Borough Council is releasing some considered. www.swindonlink.com money from the North Swindon deTrust volunteers are extending

Steam railway future under threat by Wiltshire housing plans

vacancy

the steam railway south towards Mouldon Hill where a platform called Taw Valley Halt, opposite the Tawny Owl pub, is scheduled for completion next year. In the long term the trust dreams of extending their railway to the mainline and having a shared platform so that passengers from Cricklade can make a connection. The housing plan for The Pry ignores this said John. “It is unbelievable that no thought has been

Pry Farm 2,000 houses

Taw Hill

Taw Valley Halt on Moulden to Hill Park Gl ou ce R ste iver R ay rr ail wa Ridgeway Farm y 800 houses lin e

ind

Sparcells

Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

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 printed or electronic form is forbidden Copy for May: 1 April 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: 5 March Published: 27 March

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19/02/2010 11:34

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Crest Nicholson challenged to come up with better plan for Tadpole Farm development After The Link reported developers Crest Nicholson’s desire to build an extra 500 houses at Tadpole Farm - in addition to the 2,000 already agreed in principle by Swindon Council - Abbey Meads ward councillors Justin Tomlinson, Vera Tomlinson, cabinet member for transportation and planning Peter Greenhalgh and council leader Rob Bluh were spurred into action to meet with the developers to discuss concerns raised by residents. Coun Tomlinson said, “Crest owns the land and their proposals are in line with the Swindon core strategy. However they were given a crystal clear message that access through the existing residential areas of Oakhurst and Redhouse is the key issue which they need to address before we will consider any planning applications for the site.”

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The councillors’ list of requirements include: • the number of houses built being between 1,500 and 2,000, allowing for a better quality development, and a lower number of cars; • extensive green buffers and open space to improve the character of the Northern development; • traffic controls which do not have any unnecessary impact on existing residential areas; • infrastructure, particularly schools, in place from the beginning of any development; • full public consultation so local No frills supermarket chain Aldi has residents can help shape and influbought the hotel site next to the ten- ence any potential development; nis centre, off Thamesdown Drive, • improvements to flood alleviaand are proposing to build a store. tion infrastructure. John Ilet, development direcHowever they have been told by Abbey Meads ward councillors tor at Crest Nicholson Strategic, that the idea is unacceptable. Coun described in the January Link how Justin Tomlinson said, “there is a the site design would deter car use fine balance in the planning of retail and promote a bus rapid transport provision in residential areas. The system. He said he is pleased that designated retail areas at the North development issues are being raised Swindon District Centre and village at this early stage. “The councilcentres are successful because of lors’ concerns are very reasonably reflecting those of the residents. We this balance. “We have made it very clear to now have a lot of research to do Aldi that a planning application to with engineers, planners, the bus change the use of the hotel site will company, the Highways Agency and the council’s consultants bebe opposed.” Coun Tomlinson would like to fore reporting back in about three hear residents’ views. Mail him at: months time with our options.” Councillor Tomlinson hopes justin@abbeymeadsintouch.com See a site aerial image at: www. outline plans can be displayed in the early Autumn. swindonlink.com

Aldi explores North Swindon store option

Tadpole Farm site

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swindonlink.com • March 2010

‘New’ New Swindon Company to get a grip on town centre regeneration

The New Swindon Company, established in 2002 with responsibility for regenerating the town centre, is recruiting a new chief executive with a strong commercial outlook, and has plans to re-form its board. The planned company shake-up soon come back into prominence was documented in a council paper and work should start on revampat the end of last year, highlighting ing the railway station forecourt. Coun Young said, “the designs the need to make better use of resources and to reduce duplication for Phase 1 of Union Square, of effort between the council and between the station and Fleming Way, are due imminently, as are the company’s activities. Phil Young, Swindon Council proposals for the old college site, cabinet member for regeneration, after lengthy negotiations with the said, “previously the New Swindon developers.” Given the setbacks caused by the Company was part-owned by three organisations, namely the Homes recession in the last 20 months, these and Communities Agency, the will be important achievements to Progress promised on one of the town centre’s many undeveloped sites South West Regional Development add to the work completed so far, Agency and Swindon Borough such as the Wharf Green developCouncil, which made real account- ment in 2008, and the on-going transformation of Canal Walk. ability difficult. Responding to the criticism of “We now want to sort out the governance issues, and make the the performance of the regeneration council the sole owner for regen- and cynicism that nothing changes, eration so that the business-facing Coun Young said, “one of the things and business-supporting functions we haven’t done particularly well become more effective and robust.” in the past is manage people’s As a result, the new New Swin- expectations. Regeneration takes don Company will have a broader a long time: the ground work has remit and geographical scope, to been done, we’ve got the vision in ensure that plans for the regen- place and while it’s unrealistic to eration of the town centre and Old expect new buildings to be springTown are in line with the needs of ing up immediately, certainly over the next three years depending on the borough at large. The company has indicated that the financial climate, we need to the old Swindon College site will focus on delivering it.”

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swindonlink.com • March 2010

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The West Swindon Forum next meets in West Swindon Library at Link Centre Freshbrook Windmill Ct Village Centre on Monday 8 March, 7.30pm, to discuss: Freshbrook police work in the area, including the Policing Pledge; bus stops on Mead Way; School y Ro a of small business units at Hillmead Industrial dog fouling bins; development Estate; pot hole repairs and a West Swindon Forum open event. ✝ ll The forum is a meeting point Swindon residents and the eight councilh mi ol for rWest c d l n tC Wi l Scho ok Chu vi l berthe beginning a d aside lors representing the area. to all andWtime isR oset at ro icopen y al Lam Hil It bis le s or sh gel Cl of the meeting for residents issues of community concern. n raiseDe ntha m Frevato sb o WAY

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Flaunt Abbey Meads, Village Centre, Elstree Way. Tel: 01793 704800 Flaunt Old Town, 34A Newport Street. Tel: 01793 533800 The Flaunt team at Abbey Meads, front from left, Sara, Carmela, Carrie, Jo. Back, Sophie, Koren, Sam, Nicki, Shellie, Dan

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A series of neck crunching speed humps on Freshbrook Way in Toothill should be removed by mid-March, while residents living close to y D C le asb T elt the parallel Rowton Heath Way will be safer following the installationPolice of speed restriction measures. C lose Ce enn a Point nt is Road and Westminster Road on The Link has reported residents’ re West S Swindon Freshbrook Way shown complaints and discussions at the District Link Centre Centre Rowton Heath Way resident West Swindon Forum ever since o Monica Thompson, who once the humps were installed in 2003, Greendown Community W witnessed a car embedded in her following a serious accident involvKE School St G rang garden wall, said had been ing a child going e to Oliver Tomkins a n co she Y SB m A U W writing to the council and the poPrimary School. People complained RY WA ham lice about speeding about the hump height and the W es tle a Dri v e on the road for Hex los e Y te se C Littlecotraffi Clo c volume over 25 years. “The increased traffic on Rowton Heath l m Hote s ewood pl o p r A v Court shot up after the humps in Way and Beaumaris Road outside n l G Dri s Only i ngton Lane Buwent Buse y S ta m a WAon W ford Y Freshbrook Way and I’ve s O been the school after drivers changed C los a th nly e B 4553 He kins ma ris R m o badgering for action ever since. their routes. o l a n St ra tf or d d r T choo o e t v Cl os e w Oli ior S “The raised road surface should The work going on at present R o th C ins Jun omkool m Drive sy er T K il reduce speed andB odia I hope the new includes removing the humps and: Oliv ant Sch f G In a W arrangements will reduce traffic.” • turning the area within the red in sb ie Y armou or l drich line on the map, right, into a 20mph Goo rtFreshbrook and Granged Park ou l C en g Cou e fi e was W r councillor Mick Bray, said he zone; la al ill h C ld t k o k m o To ge ha l r br o la e e il C h looking forward to improvements. • planted ‘gateways’ with 20mph V tr n es e Cl C or d S C o r fe R oa ✝ taken us a long time to get T ru “It has signs at entrances to the zone; y Cl here. I hope the number of vehicles • building raised speed tables at Toothill esho will beChurch evened outpthroughout the the junctions of Kilsythe Close er S area.” and Rowton Heath Way, and Corfe

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19/02/2010 13:02

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swindonlink.com • March 2010

Community cafe springs open

Spring is sprung and Lower Shaw Farm community cafe reopens after winter hibernation on Wednesday 3 March, 10am to 2pm. The cafe will run every week until the autumn, offering tea, coffee, homemade soup, bread and cake at very reasonable prices. Conducted walks through the organic vegetable garden to visit Piggy Wiggy and the sheep, stopping off to feed the chickens and ducks, take place throughout the morning. A craft table is set out for children and parents, and the sandpit, playhouse and play barn are all attractions. www.lowershawfarm.co.uk

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Bench to remember cafe people

A new bench has been installed at Toothill Primary School in memory of two men from Toothill Community Café, who both died in 2009.

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Toothill pupils welcome the memory bench with Tina Mackie and Carol Gibbon, and back left to right, Indea Woolhouse, coun Steve Wakeﬁeld, Nicky Howard, Martin Cowell

Customers and workers from the café raised £313 for the bench and plaque to commemorate loyal volunteer Phil Butt and pensioner Tony Scott. Tina Mackie and Carol Gibbon, who run the café at Toothill Church on Monday mornings, said that Phil was one of their ﬁrst volunteers. “He came into the cafe when it ﬁrst opened in 2005 to have his breakfast, and asked if he could help with the washing up,” said Tina. “Phil quickly became invaluable and one of our best assets. He was great with the other volunteers and loved by many of our regular customers. “Phil was only in his early 50s so when he died the whole community was shocked.” “Tony, who we think was eighty, was a customer who never missed a week. He used to collect his pension on a Monday and come straight into the cafe. He was quietly spoken and always extremely polite and appreciative of what we were doing. He didn't mix much but the volunteers became very fond of him

1 - 21 March 10.indd 9

and we always checked if ever he didn't turn up.” Toothill Primary School headteacher Martin Cowell said the school was the recipient of the bench as both it and the café are at the heart of the community. "We are very pleased to have the bench in our grounds - it will be a welcome resting place for parents and grandparents waiting in the playground in warmer weather. Phil and Tony were valued members of our community."

Cafe opening times

Both the Monday Toothill cafe and Freshbrook café, which meets at Freshbrook Church on Wednesdays while the community centre is closed, are open to everyone. Breakfasts cost £1, while a two course lunch can be bought for £2.70. Drinks, cakes and snacks are also available. Carol said, “we are always looking for helpers and invite anyone to come and see if they would like to volunteer.” Call Tina on 495128 with offers of help or mail: tina.mackie1@sky.com

18/02/2010 12:01

10 swindonlink.com • March 2010

Life after a kidney transplant

A Swindon woman is enjoying a new lease of life, one year after receiving a kidney transplant from her father – Swindon’s famous muralist Ken White - writes Joy Aldred. an immediate change. “I felt Laura Penn, 30, of Eastcott Hill, sor and do a lot of travelling different as soon as I woke up. started suffering from a rare auto- so I just used to come home Before I had a very foggy brain, immune disease which attacked her and go to bed. I couldn’t plan then I just felt fantastic. I go to kidneys when she was 21. For eight anything, even a night out. I a lot of gigs and I can actually years her health deteriorated as her had to wait and see how I felt stand through the whole thing kidneys failed again and again. In on the day.” now – before I could manage When the hospital men2008 she was put on dialysis at about 10 minutes. home four times a day, as well as tioned a living donor trans“I’m even thinking of going enduring endless trips to the renal plant both her mum, Janet, abroad on holiday. It used to and dad were tested, promptunit at Oxford for consultations. be out of the question, not just “I was in a bad way prior to di- ing something of a competibecause of how I felt. Just thinkalysis - I was tired, had no appetite tion as both parents wanted ing about what medical care and lost weight. I got a little better to be the one to help out their was available in each country afterwards but was still poorly. I daughter. “Dad won, he was was too tiring to contemplate. work as a youth volunteer advi- a perfect match but I felt hor“The disease is in remission rible; I didn’t want him to have but everyday I’m reminded of to go through that for me.” Do You Deserve how grateful I am to dad – I Ken, 66, said, “I had no can feel his kidney in me, it’s like the unknown. A lot of people have doubts, although we were both tera Better Life? rified before the op. , thinking about said they wouldn’t do it but they a lump. Mine wasn’t removed so would if it was their child. You’d they’ve added it round the front. Andrew Hill “People think that these transdo anything for your own children. Hypnotherapist, The op went fine, and now I can see plants are a huge deal but it’s very Counsellor & how well Laura’s doing I know it straightforward, so anyone considLife Coach ering being a living donor should Swindon Osteoporosis Support was worth it.” 6,750+ sessions run After the operation, Laura recalls absolutely do it.” Group holds its next meeting on Smoking, Habits & Compulsions, Fears & Phobias, Anxiety, Panic, Friday 12 March, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, Depression, Tinnitus, IBS, Sleep, when Renata Sharp will speak on Eating difficulties, Weight, Osteopathy and Osteoporosis at Motivation & Direction, Trauma, the Health Hydro, Milton Road, Swindon MS Therapy Centre has settled into its new premises in Confidence, Relationships etc. Swindon. Westlea and is now reaching out to people with a variety of different VISIT: www.ahassociates.org For details of the group and future conditions and injuries for whom their therapies could be beneficial. Call me in Confidence meetings call 721882 or mail: swinLink tattoo 873451 ad 15/10/09 11:40 Page 1 01793 donosteoporosis@googlemail.com

Living with osteoporosis

Oxygen treatment on offer

remove unwanted tattoos Toasting the new oxygen tank. The first ever ‘divers,’ from left, Debbie Pearson, Deirdre Knee, Jackie Wray, Bal Sandhu, Brian Danby, Sue Higgs, Debbie Walton

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL (blue/black ink only) IPL TREATMENTS FOR SKIN AND HAIR FACIAL FILLERS WRINKLE RELAXING INJECTIONS TREATMENTS TO REDUCE SWEATING Call Dr Alison Brooks for a free consultation at the Shalbourne Suite, Great Western Hospital, Swindon

01672 841029

1 - 21 March 10.indd 10

MIRABEL

www.mirabelclinic.com

“The extra capacity at Bradbury House means that we can now offer oxygen therapy treatments to people with a wide range of conditions,” said centre manager Jackie Wray. “Apart from multiplesclerosis, we offer sessions in the oxygen tank for sufferers of cerebral palsy, autism, brain injury, strokes and Parkinson’s Disease.” “Oxygen is also very useful for sports injuries, and can accelerate the healing process. In 2008 speedway rider Billy Legge broke a finger and was going to be out action for six weeks. After receiving oxygen under pressure he was back on his bike after three weeks.” Anyone wishing to receive

therapy at the centre automatically becomes a member and will be asked to make a charitable donation for their treatment. “We are constantly fundraising to keep the centre running, particularly as costs are much higher with the larger building,” said Jackie. The centre also offers a range of holistic therapies including reiki, Indian head massage and aromatherapy, as well as physiotherapy and Pilates. For details call Jackie on 481700 or mail: stcswindon@btconnect.com www.msswindon.org.uk What would you do in an emergency? See page 15 for a free course

18/02/2010 12:05

swindonlink.com • March 2010

FACECHOICE PHARMACY

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226

IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM:

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 2.15pm - 6pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

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PHOENIX SURGERY

❍ Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. & ASSOCIATES Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors

Also: Child screening • Free information sheets • Ergonomic and Rehabilitation Products

Tel: (01793)

887801

www.shawchiropracticclinic.co.uk

Tel: 01793 600440 • Traditional family medicine within a modern, comfortable and relaxed environment • Now open to new patient registrations from patients in West and North Swindon and the surrounding nearby villages • We are an accredited training practice. • On-line appointment booking now available. Register in the surgery or download an application form.

Your new Day Lewis pharmacy is now open for all your healthcare needs. Our Services We are committed to improving the health of the local community and provide the following healthcare services:

We will collect your prescription from the surgery, make it up and deliver it to you at home – saving you time and hassle. You can either register in store or call us to sign up to the service.

1 - 21 March 10.indd 11

Get healthy, stay healthy, with

HOMEOPATHY

Phone or visit the website for information

ALLERGY TESTING 150 foods and airborne irritants tested with instant results. No needles, no blood tests Ruth Derham, PHSH RSHom 4 High Street, Purton

Tel: 01793 771820 www.purtonhomeopathy.co.uk

Dunwich Drive, Toothill Village Centre www.phoenixsurgery.com

New Pharmacy Now Open Prescription Collection and Delivery

Quit Smoking Clinic

Blood Pressure Monitoring

Blood Glucose Monitoring

We run a free quit smoking clinic to help you kick the habit.

High blood pressure greatly increases your chances of heart attack or stroke.

Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions in the UK.

A one to one consultation with the pharmacist is followed by weekly support sessions.

Our free monitoring service will help you keep an eye on your blood pressure.

Unit 1 Greencote House Isambard Way Redhouse Village Centre Swindon SN25 2NT Tel: 01793 737123

Opening Hours Monday – Friday 9.00am – 6.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 1.00pm

Use our free service to get your blood glucose levels measured and avoid becoming one of the “undiagnosed half million”.

17/02/2010 10:27

12 swindonlink.com • March 2010

D & L Blinds

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

Quality blinds at affordable prices Fast and reliable service All blinds fitted free

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

www.dandlblinds.co.uk Free quotes no obligation

D 24

The UK’s digital TV switchover Mobile freelance has started. hairdresser Don’t lose Over 20 years experience your Reliable channels. Reasonable rates

Colleen

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Do you get your TV via an aerial and receive BBC Points West? Then your TV signal is most likely coming from the Mendip transmitter and the information here applies to you. If you receive South Today, your aerial points towards the Oxford transmitter which will switch over in 2011. Digital TV switchover means: • If you are still watching analogue TV from an aerial and you have not taken steps to switch to digital, you will lose all your TV channels;

• Carpets • Wood • Laminate • Vinyl • Underlay • Accessories No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions just the right price and the true value

Home selection service

Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

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Replacement Doors A HUGE CHOICE Our range of ‘made to measure’ door and drawer fronts are available in solid woods or vinyl wrapped finishes.

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A family run business with other 20 years experience, offering good old fashioned service with modern ideas and methods. SHOWROOM OPEN: Tuesday to Friday 10am - 4pm; Saturday 10am - 2pm or by appointment FREE Computerised design and quotation without obligation.

Call 01793 644600 39 BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Estate, Swindon SN2 2PJ

1 - 21 March 10.indd 12

• If you have Freeview, Top Up TV or BT Vision, you’ll need to re-tune your equipment again or you will lose TV channels at switchover;

• You will not be affected by switchover if you have satellite (eg from Sky or Freesat) or cable TV (eg from Virgin Media) on all your TV sets. The West TV region switches in two stages:

Stage one: 24 March 2010. The analogue BBC 2 signal is switched off and Freeview extends to reach all areas for the first time.

Stage two: 7 April 2010. The rest of the analogue channels are switched off and the remaining Freeview channels become available in all areas for the first time. You almost certainly won’t have to buy a new TV. • Almost any TV can be converted with a digital box, even black and white ones. Most digital boxes connect to a TV using a SCART cable. If your TV doesn’t have a SCART socket, you will need to ask for a digital box which connects via the aerial socket.

• Thinking of getting a new TV or TV recorder? Look for one with the digital tick logo as shown on the opposite page. This means it’s designed to work during and after the switchover. Need help with the switch? The excellent Switchover Help Scheme is run by the BBC, in agreement with government. For £40 (free to those on certain benefits), it gives full and practical help to eligible older and disabled people to make the switch to digital TV on any one TV set.

The Switchover Help Scheme will help everyone who is aged 75 or over, or has lived in a care home for six months or more, or gets (or could get) certain disability benefits, or is registered blind/partially sighted.

The Help Scheme has written to all eligible people, and to take up the offer everyone who has received a mailing needs to reply. To see if you are eligible or if it is free to you or for just more information, visit www. helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 907.

Questions? Problems? Visit West Swindon’s free Advice Point drop-in surgeries. See the advert opposite for times and dates More information is available at www.digitaluk.co.uk or call 08456 50 50 50. Digital UK is the not-for-profit organisation responsible for leading the UK digital switchover. On behalf of Digital UK, Age Concern Wiltshire (which is 60 years old this year) is responsible for spreading switchover information and giving support to the vulnerable and elderly across the Wiltshire and Swindon areas of our West TV region.

19/02/2010 09:56

Digital TV Switchover 24 March & 7 April

NEED HELP OR ADVICE? We are at WEST SWINDON LIBRARY for Advice Point drop-in surgeries on 24 & 25 March and 7 & 8 April from 10am until 4pm (Mendip transmitter NOT Oxford/Central)

1 - 21 March 10.indd 13

19/02/2010 09:57

14 swindonlink.com • March 2010

Charitable giving increases in the recession

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Interested in renting a chair? Call Gemma

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2QJ

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Despite the economic crisis in 2009 people were giving even more generously to charity at West Swindon Centre while the Prospect shop that opened there on 1 December has done a roaring trade.

Charities collecting in the mall teers for Save the Children, Comic have been delighted with the Relief, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and shoppers’ response. Last year the Toothill Youth Club also took part centre helped 43 charities fundraise in fundraising events. More recently, in mid-January, through displays, mini-events and £1,000 was collected collecting days. in a day by Rotary Asda assisted a Club members to further 25 organisahelp the Haiti earthtions through bag quake relief. packs. Jan Kilby, comCentre manager munity events S t u a r t Ta n f i e l d manager for Asda believes at least We s t S w i n d o n £30,000 was raised, said, "many of the and it’s probably groups are local like nearer to £40,000 schools, youth clubs as not all groups reStuart Tanﬁeld and Jan Kilby and dance schools; port back. He said, "last year was very tough for many people like to contribute to compeople, but the level of support for munity activities." Groups are invited to make bookgood causes is very strong; perhaps people are giving even more, which ings for dates later in the year. The only requirement is to have public is tremendous." Groups to beneﬁt included the liability insurance. Call Stuart on British Legion which raised £10,000 872987 to book a handcart, displays - £2,500 more than 2008 – and the or collections, or Jan on 872781 to NSPCC which raised £2,700. Volun- arrange a bag pack.

Prospect shop helps boost £1m target

If you’re thinking of a spring clean and have items you no longer want, don’t throw them away. If they are good quality take them to the Prospect Hospice charity shop at West Swindon District Centre. Prospect’s head of retail Charly Rich, said, “the shop got off to a ﬂying start - and doesn’t appear to have landed yet. We are getting great support and are absolutely delighted with the team’s hard work in achieving their sales target consistently with a very busy shop. “The number of items donated to the shop has been tremendous - probably the highest of all our branches - and it’s due to the generosity of people living to the west and north of Swindon.” Charly is also delighted that Prospect this year - for the ﬁrst

time - will raise over £1 million on donated goods from its eleven branches, thanks to donors and shoppers She added that there had been an astounding response to the call for shop helpers with over twenty people on the team. But more volunteers are always welcome. Call volunteer co-ordinator Sam Clark on 816168 for details. • Items for the Prospect Hospice at West Swindon Centre should be delivered during opening hours. Items left at other times are liable to be ruined by the weather.

Participate for Prospect in its 30th year The Prospect Hospice needs to raise £4.5 million annually to deliver its care and services and much of it will come from donations and people getting involved in events such as: Friday 19 March, 7.30pm to 11pm. Spring Hafla with Swindon Shimmyers. An evening of belly dancing, below, at Coleview Community Centre,Towcester Road. Advance tickets £7 from Sue Dickinson, tel. 07905 552360 or mail: susanbickell@hotmail.com For September: 10,000 foot tandem skydive at Redlands Airfield near Wanborough.To book a place, call Julie Brogan on 815142 or mail: fundraising@prospect-hospice.net

Free local delivery Open 7 days a week

Tel: 01793 526691 1 - 21 March 10.indd 14

Gardens wanted to be opened up during 2010 to raise funds to support their care for patients. For details or to offer your garden in aid of Prospect, call Jane Kendall, on 815142 or mail: janekendall@prospect-hospice.net See more fundraising events to take part in at: www.prospect-hospice.net

19/02/2010 11:45

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Foodbank assistant knows what it’s like at the bottom What would you do

A year ago Craig Evenden was homeless and relying on Swindon Foodbank for meals – now he’s Foodbank’s assistant project manager, providing practical and emotional support to those in the same situation he was in. Craig was 26 when he help in these difficult economic returned to Swindon to find times, “we’re here to help, that’s there wasn’t enough room our job and we enjoy it, don’t be at his mother’s house. He embarrassed about coming to us.” sofa-surfed at friends and Richard added, “I’m thrilled for even slept on the streets a Craig, he’s really turned his life few times, then he lost his around and it’s great for Foodbank job. He got depressed, and, that somebody who has used although on benefits, somethe charity can now be a part of times his payments didn’t it – his experience and empathy come through in time. for those who come and see us is When he was told about invaluable.” Christian-based Foodbank www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk Craig and Richard in the Foodbank it was literally a godsend. The charity, based in West Swin- I enjoy working here every single Foodbank Quiz Night don, provides emergency food to day. I was really depressed when I Friday 17 March, 7.30pm those in desperate need and has wasn’t working, this has given me Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, given food to around 8,000 families a new life, I feel like a new person.” Westlea in the four years it’s been running. Craig, who hopes the job will one Teams of 4 to 6, tickets Craig said, “although I felt rub- day become full time, offers a word £2.50 per person. Call Richard bish because it had come to this, I to those who may need Foodbank’s Belsham on 07932 108732 thought there’s no point in being proud, I needed to eat. Foodbank seemed too good to be true.” He used Foodbank several times Marie Curie Cancer Care is asking people to back its big springtime and after a few months – during appeal by wearing a daffodil pin. Every donation will help more Marie Curie Nurses provide free care to which he found a council flat – he was successfully interviewed for terminally ill people in their own homes or one of its hospices. Daffodil pins can be picked up from local stores, schools and Marie the part time role. “I was absolutely delighted that Curie Shops. Volunteer street collectors and people to organise their from being on the receiving end I own fundraising event are needed. For details call the Daffodil Hotline on 0845 601 3107 was helping others, and able to give www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil back to people in a similar situation.

Go yellow in March

1 - 21 March 10.indd 15

in an emergency?

Here’s the chance to find out while supporting the Swindon Therapy Centre For Multiple Sclerosis and Swindon Youth Mentoring Project (SMASH). Andy Memory from North Swindon has set up Meditec Training and will be running free Basic Life Support Awareness Training sessions on Saturday 13 March at Eldene Community Centre, Eldene. Each 90 minute session with no more than 24 people in each will cover signs, symptoms and what to do with an adult or child who is choking or going into cardiac arrest, including calling for expert help. Four volunteer CRB cleared instructors will deliver the course; three are registered nurses. Participants will receive a Basic Life Support charity awareness day certificate. A donation of £5 to £10 is requested. Commercially such life skills course would cost £45. Sessions start at 10am, 12noon, 2pm and 4pm. To book one of the 96 places on offer, mail: andy.memory@ meditec-training.co.uk www.meditec-training.co.uk

19/02/2010 09:57

16 swindonlink.com • March 2010

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Every child can shine

Reception teacher Cheryl Stratton with the children and their model castle

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!”

Youngsters at Catherine Wayte Primary School in Abbey Meads drew inspiration from the National Gallery’s Take One Picture programme to create their own exhibition of work in the style of the artists studied. Parents were invited into school to study the artworks by different classes including a model, tiles and pictures based on The Castle in Muiden in Winter by Dutch artist Jan Beerstraaton.

Connected with Cape Town’s District 6

As South Africa celebrated 20 years since the release of Nelson Mandela in February, two Swindon schools have deepened their links with an area of the country with a long history in the apartheid era.

www.novahreodisambardess.org.uk For further information contact Sandra Collis or Lisa Parkinson on 01793 608199 Come to our EASTER SHOWCASE see website for details Floral Workshops . . Every child matters last few places remaining!

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1 - 21 March 10.indd 16

Abu Hendricks with members of Nova Hreod radio club and community teacher Tom Wilkes at the back

District 6 in Cape Town was heavily populated by 60,000 coloured and black citizens before they were forcibly removed from 1962 to 1982 to make way for suburb development for white people. Nova Hreod School and The Ridgeway have made links with schools affected by the District 6 clearances, with assistance from former sports teacher Clinton Classon who worked in both schools, and whose mother was evicted. Nova Hreod is linked with Harold Cressy High School in Cape Town and several teacher exchanges have taken place in the last two years. The latest was a visit in February by IT specialist Abu Hendricks who came over to better integrate communications so that pupils can use the internet to exchange information and learn about each other’s schools. He said that Harold Cressy school has received a grant to develop a District 6 heritage education project

and Nova Hreod is funding audio and video equipment so that pupils can record the history of the area for curriculum use. Last summer 18 students and 5 members of staff from The Ridgeway School visited Aloe School, in the Mitchells Plain area of Cape Town where people forced from District 6 were resettled. Clinton took them to the cleared site where his mother’s house once stood. The trip was so successful that the two schools have set up The Ridgeloe Ubuntu Exchange (TRUE), to follow the African humanist philosophy of ubuntu. TRUE aims to raise £10,000 to assist Aloe students and staff visit England in June this year. Other projects it is supporting are a breakfast club at Aloe School and a shelter for abused women and children near the school. They will also be helping the school equip its library and are collecting items to send to South Africa.

18/02/2010 12:09

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Wheelchair friendly roundabout provides playground joy

Physically disabled children at Westlea Primary School are delighted they now have accessible play equipment which they can share with their able bodied friends.

The Kirsty Farrow Dance Academy

Classes for children and adults Pre School • Ballet Modern Tap • Musical Theatre Adult Jazz/Fitness and Tap Street Jazz

The Blackthorn School of Photography Digital image-making and black and white printing based at our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade Evening, day and weekend courses for beginners and advanced photographers www.photography-courses.com Tel: 01454 416937 or 07920 116492

Now in our own premises at Headlands School

with branches in Hook Village Hall and Lechlade Memorial Hall First class FREE of charge

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Email: kirstyfarrow@hotmail.co.uk www.thekirstyfarrowdanceacademy.com

English, Mathematics and Science For age 7 upwards

Enjoying the new roundabout, with Bob Barrett of Swindon Thamesdown Rotary Club, Marla Carrol and Westlea headteacher Suzanne Seaton

The wheelchair friendly roundabout and picnic table are both in place, thanks to Heart FMs Have a Heart appeal and the Swindon Thamesdown Rotary Club. Marla Carroll, who is in charge of the Special Resourced Provision (SRP) for the physically disabled pupils at the school, now has her sights set on a £15,000 wheelchair accessible swing alongside a bench swing seat with the appropriate safety surface. She said, “we very much want to extend the inclusive ethos of the school into the outdoor environment now that we have our new extension and the mobiles have gone. This will enhance Westlea’s ‘can do’ attitude and ensure pupils with disability do not feel limited to a particular part of the playground.” Vinny Adams, 8, is pleased by the

equipment. “I’m glad they bought the bigger roundabout because more children can get on together .” His friend Georgia Adams added, “you have to be quite strong to push it round when there are two wheelchairs and lots of children on it.” Within days of the installation the roundabout and picnic table closeby proved very popular. Marla said, “the playground rule is that an able bodied child has to be invited by a child with disability to use the roundabout in playtimes. You see lots of smiles as children whirl round and round. It will be great in good weather when children of all abilities can now eat their packed lunch together.” To help Westlea Primary School give all its children equal chance to enjoy its playground, call Marla on 870469.

New private school to open in Cricklade

AGrade II listed building on the banks of the River Thames in Cricklade is to open as an independent school. the beautiful grounds Dating back to 1860 will provide a safe and The Old School House inspiring environment was Cricklade’s school for outdoor learning. for over 100 years before “Meadowpark has a being refurbished as ofwell-earned reputation ﬁces in 1994. for high standards and In September it will for our ability to recogreturn to its original nise and develop the use when the well espotential of each child. tablished Meadowpark Nursery opens a new school for The Old School House will provide boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years continuity for the next phase of education beyond our nursery.” from September 2010. Meadowpark School holds open Headteacher Rajvinder Kular said, “we are pleased the Old School days for its nursery and the new House will once again become a school on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 March. For more information, school for young children. “The building has retained call 752600. www.meadowparkschool.co.uk many of its original features and

1 - 21 March 10.indd 17

Personal workplans Fully qualified teachers Preparation for SATS & GCSE exams Free assessment and first lesson

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19/02/2010 11:50

18 swindonlink.com • March 2010

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Specialist massage and holistic treatments for Pre & Postnatal Mums & Dads

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          

WellMother trained with Suzanne Yates Fully qualified & insured GIFT VOUCHERS for the whole family! Shiatsu & Aromatherapy massage Reflexology & meridian therapy Hot oil Hawaiian massage Baby massage groups Childrens Yoga Berries

CallGayle: 01793 723125

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hello@innersmilemassage.co.uk www.innersmilemassage.co.uk

The Lower Shaw Farm Children’s Project is looking for more people to join its committee to help plan and run eco-friendly activities for children and families at the farm, and help with fundraising. Get involved at the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 3 March, 7.30pm, at Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane. After the meeting a practical workshop will take place to learn how to make lip balm from natural ingredients. All parents are welcome. For details call 771080 or mail: enquiries@lowershawfarm.co.uk www.lowershawfarm.co.uk

Settling into a new home

Shaw Ridge Playgroup has found its feet at the purpose built community room at Shaw Ridge Primary School. Playgroup supervisor Jane Miller said it’s taken some time to get used to the new environment. “We were in Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre for 24 years so it was quite a wrench to move. But the children love the room and have been creating decorations for it and also for the play area. We’ll soon be planting flowers and after half term making closer links with the nursery class just down the corridor in the school.” There are places for over threes. Call Jane on 0771 271 3369 for details. www.shawridgeplaygroup.org.uk Welcome to our playgroup. Jane Miller, left, with assistants Emma Gunston, Alison Pope and some of the children

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

Baby Sensory stimulates bright minds

Award-winning Baby Sensory classes which started in January have attracted a keen following from Swindon mums. A high quality day nursery situated in West Swindon at Windmill Hill Business Park, close to the M4 Junction 16, offering a happy, sociable environment where every child is treated as an individual.

see and us e Open Days ! Com Fri 12th March Sat 13th March Wed 14th April

• For children aged 6 weeks to 5 years • Open from 8.00am to 6.00pm, 52 weeks per year (except public holidays) • Full time and part time places • Large garden for all ages • Fully inclusive, including all meals, baby milk and nappies • CCTV throughout the nursery

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For more information please contact us: Windmill Hill Day Nursery Whitehill Way Swindon Wiltshire SN5 6NX

Tel: 01793 877646

Email: info@childbase.com www.childbase.com

Founded on over thirty years of university research and practical theory, and recognized by health professionals, Baby Sensory offers a unique programme that promotes baby learning and development through a wide range of sensory experiences using equipment, music, massage Alison, centre, with Jo Stewart and Sofia from Grange Park and baby signing. and Angela Tinson and Stanley Perry from Abbey Meads Class leader Alison Randall said, "no session is the shows and sleep techniques. Many same. Imagine taking your baby on say Baby Sensory is an unforgeta jungle, water or space adventure, table experience.” to a winter wonderland or to a One hour classes are held in world of light and magic. Purton, Lawn and Down Ampney “Every week follows a different and the first lesson is free. theme and parents leave with lots For details see the Baby Sensory of simple ideas to work with their advert above. babies at home, like signing, light www.babysensory.com

18/02/2010 12:19

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Mums shedding the pounds for group

By the time Alpha Playgroup opens in Freshbrook Community Centre - when it reopens, hopefully by Easter - seven mums aim to achieve a new look by each being 14 pounds lighter. “I made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight and the others took up the challenge when we started back in January,” said Lynne Jacobs. “We have a public weigh-in each Monday at Munchkins parent and toddler group and are giving each other a lot of encouragement.” The mums are following points based programmes, some are going to the gym and others have taken up power walking. For details of Alpha Playgroup, mail: v_lynch@hotmail.com Serious about weight loss, from left, Fiona Turner, Vicky Lynch, Lynne Jacobs, Sarah John, Lisa Woolford, Leanne Wheeler. Not pictured, Susan Butler

How can Musical Minis help your child be ...

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

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

Musical Minis is a pre-school fun time music group for babies and toddlers. Each structured session encourages cognitive, physical and emotional development through the use of music, instruments and stories

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

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Minis make birthday music

Parents and toddlers held a birthday party in early February to celebrate the first year of Musical Minis in the Swindon area

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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

Part of the Busy Bees Group

FREE registration when you book before 30th April 2010 Our nurseries are a great place for your child to play, learn and make new friends Before cutting the birthday cake donated by Lil’ Cakes, Musical Mini members with Haydon Centre manager Michael Jeary and Chrissie Rolls, holding her daughter Millie and Grace Bell, and Mopsy with Chloe Bell

The sessions are run each week at the Haydon Centre by Chrissie Rolls with the assistance of her mum Anne Myden who is known by everybody as Mopsy. Chrissie said, “I’m delighted that parents chose to give their child’s early development such a boost by coming along to our classes.” The Musical Minis programme uses a variety of songs, music, instruments and puppets in a structured programme to help babies, toddlers and children improve their co-ordination, enhance their listening skills as well as develop their social and communication skills.

1 - 21 March 10.indd 19

Chrissie added, “the sessions encourage children to discover sounds, explore instruments, mimic actions and learn to share and make friends in a relaxed group setting. But that’s not the only reason parents come along with their children. We have a lot of fun and many friendships are made.” The birthday party also raised money for the Special Care Nursery at John Radcliffe Hospital in support of group member Natalie Boss from Redhouse who is a nurse there. See the advert above for details of how to contact Chrissie at Musical Minis.

Bright, welcoming play areas for each age group Secure access systems Fresh nutritious meals everyday Large, secure outdoor gardens Extra activities available

Leapfrog at St Andrew’s Ridge call Niki on 01793 726 919 Busy Bees at Peatmoor call Julie on 01793 887 602

Providing Quality Childcare you can trust! www.busybees.com

*terms and conditions apply

19/02/2010 11:53

20 swindonlink.com • March 2010

Peatmoor group for babies and toddlers

Retirement Announcement

from Pam of Manhattan Hair Salon, Abbey Meads I would like to thank all my clients and friends for your loyalty and business over the past eleven years. I won’t be sitting at the desk anymore, and I will miss you a great deal.

Sunny Smiles baby and toddler group is a small and friendly group held in Roughmoor Community hall off Swinley Drive, Peatmoor, on Fridays from 9.30am to 11.45am. The group offers arts and crafts, toys, games, music and dance and healthy snacks. For details call Jo on 07830 132942. If there is demand a Tuesday session could open.

Give your child the best start

I am taking fantastic memories with me but it’s time for a younger person to build on the success of Manhattan. Please support the new owner Mela who has a wealth of experience.

Ofsted has declared Headstarts Nursery at Delta Business Park in Westlea as ‘good.’

I wish all of you health and happiness and look forward to meeting former customers around Abbey Meads in the future.

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.

Headstarts manager Debbie Harries, centre, with children

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 Moredon Children’s Centre Montrose Close, Moredon Tel: 01793 481080

✁

Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £37.00 per day Funded child-care credits available.** Government Funded Nursery Sessions**

Free 15 hours a week flexible funding during term time for 3 and 4 year olds* For further information or to arrange a visit, call one of the centres above

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

www.headstartsnursery.co.uk

1 - 21 March 10.indd 20

opment. Parents speak positively about the friendly staff and say they are given all the information they need about their children’s care and development. Staff actively engage with all children and support their learning well.’ The nursery is asked to develop outdoor activities and resources and build partnerships with other providers to ensure continuity. Manager Debbie Harries said, “We’re really pleased, the report puts all our work into a positive light.”

Swindon Cycles

Superstore

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

Children make good progress in their learning at the nursery, which has 62 children on their roll. The report said ‘strong links have been developed with parents which helps involve them in their children’s care and education, and they are kept well informed of their children’s progress. All members of staff understand their responsibility to safeguard children from harm and know how to make a referral if concerns arise. Staff regularly attend training and keep up to date with current areas of devel-

With 250 bikes on show the price is right the parking is free

The choice is yours

Parts, repairs, accessories, back up stock Open: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

Tel: (01793) 700105

60a Beechcroft Road, SN2 6QD Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown

www.swindoncycles.co.uk

19/02/2010 11:55

Improve your mind, body and soul, and help our heroes

Discover something to soothe, heal and nurture your mind, body and soul at Swindon’s largest Holistic Health & Wellbeing Show - The Big One - on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 March at the Marriott Hotel in Pipers Way. Over 60 exhibitors, workshops, demonstrations health food retailers and representatives of religious and talks from the UK’s leading practitioners, thera- and philosophical bodies will be on hand, as well as pists, readers, retailers, centres and services will be Swindon’s very own fitness superman Mike Buss. The event is free to enter but a £2 donation to Help showcasing the best in holistic health and wellbeing. From the NHS Swindon psychology services to for Heroes and Have a Heart will be welcomed. For details call Graham Barrone on 07593 853321. renowned psychic healers, local youth charities,

ICE PR MISE O PR

Book tells of a life lived with speed

It would be a rare thing to meet a world champion side-car racer, professional trumpet player, motor-bike test rider, land speed record technician, gold prospector, pioneering business-man and inventor on the same day, but Juliet Platt meets a man who can chalk up these achievements. Stan Dibben, 84, from Lechlade, right, published his autobiography Hold On in April 2008 but you would be pushed to find it. “If you go into Waterstones it’s probably in the transport section; it should really be next to Michael Schumacher’s, under sporting autobiographies,” said Stan. His is a fascinating tale of an intrepid side-car racer winning championships all over the world during the 1950s, as well as preparing the track for Donald Campbell's Bluebird land speed record attempt in Australia in 1964. He also describes his efforts to transform the mundane supermarket shopping trolley from backbreakers to ones that steer 'like a Ferrari,' in the words of the BBC's Jeremy Clarkson. Stan’s book should also appear amongst inspirational titles. It certainly provides interesting historical insights into the working lives of men born between the wars. Reflecting on a career where one door closed another always opened, Stan

said, "my advice for life is that you need to win a race slowly not as quickly as you can.” By knowing his own limits, by being self-disciplined and true to himself at every turn, Stan reckons he's ‘had a good life.’ He began writing his memoirs after his son Mark, a business management professor at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, recommended he do something to keep his mind active. "He told me to make a note of any name or memory that came to mind, and to file it,” said Stan. “After about 6 months of doing this I had a book's worth, so set about writing it while on holiday in Australia.” Stan’s second book, a technical guide about selecting the right kind of spark plugs for classic engines, has just been published. Hold On and Sparkplugging the

Classics are available from Waterstones and Amazon. Stan also gives regular talks about his life experiences and book writing, and can be contacted at: standibben@talktalk.net

Stan in sidecar action in the 1950s

21-52 March 10.indd 21

19/02/2010 11:05

Swindon Wide

FANTASTIC CHINESE CUISINE AT TWO GREAT VENUES A LA CARTE and our famous ALL YOU CAN EAT MENU

Choose from over 100 dishes From Sunday to Thursday: £16 per person Fridays & Saturdays: £19 per person 25% off menu prices on all takeaways STILL AVAILABLE

ENU BRAND NEW M FOR 2010 EARLY BIRD OFFER

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at both restaurants Sunday to Friday ONLY AVAILABLE IF ORDERED BEFORE 7pm

ALL YOU CAN EAT MENU

OVER 100 DISHES - MANY NEW ONES

AVAILABLE AT BOTH RESTAURANTS (Also available at Lunchtime) All offers shown above are subject to change without notice

SUNDAY LUNCH £12.50 ALL YOU CAN EAT ONLY AT LE RENDEZVOUS

LADIES’ NIGHTS OFF

SWINDON RE NDEZVOUS ON MONDAY S ONLY

LADIES EAT FO ONLY £12.50 R LE RENDEZVO US ON TUESDAY S ONLY

RESERVE A TABLE FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY AND EAT FOR FREE 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)

SWINDON RENDEZVOUS 11-12a Theatre Square, Swindon Telephone: 01793 523570 www.swindonrendezvous.co.uk ___________________________________________________________________ LE RENDEZVOUS

36-39 Haydon St, Swindon. Telephone: 01793 526111 www.lerendezvousswindon.co.uk CLOSED ON MONDAY Private free parking after 5pm (George Whites yard opposite)

21-52 March 10.indd 22

The coming of the railway

1833: GWR appoints Brunel, genius in the making Railway historian Steve Wakefield continues his series on the 175 years of the GWR and looks at the reasons why the railway was built

of transport existed. This In the 1820s the Port of lead to deterioration of Liverpool was becoming the animals or worse they a busy gateway to both died on the journey.These the Americas and the losses had to be made up Empire - driven by the by increasing the cost of need to import and export the meat on the hoof at goods from the Lancamarket when it reached shire, and particularly London. Yet the price the Manchester industrial suffered because of the conglomeration of entrequality of the animals that preneurial businesses owned by influential folk Steve Wakefield in some cases had just trekked almost 130 miles. who saw themselves as In 1830 the world’s first intercity building the ‘new Jerusalem.’ This growth threatened the railway was opened between Livprominence of Bristol as a major erpool and Manchester and proved transatlantic port and its position as to be a boom to the economy of northwest England, and rocketed it the second city to London. In the 1820s horse power was to the forefront of both political and the principle provider of muscle to financial prominence. In 1832 the inaugural meeting move goods by road or by canal and river navigation. It was already of the Great Western Railway possible to transport goods between Company was held in Bristol at London and Bristol by these modes Merchants’ Hall, supported by the of transport, but it was a somewhat Society of Merchant Venturers and fractured journey with goods being its membership. The coal mine owners of Somertransferred from cart or by loading set and Gloucestershire were also and unloading in wharves. eager supporters of the railway as they could see whole new markets opening up. The influence of the Merchants may have been to the forefront of nominations for engineers to build the railway. Isambard Kingdom Brunel was a bright young engineer they were familiar with. Although still only 27 and working in his father’s office, he was at that time constructing the Clifton Suspension Bridge for the society. Yet the project to connect LonModels of Brunel and a broad guage don with Bristol was an ambitious engine that ran on the original GWR proposal; the Liverpool Manchester at the STEAM museum was only 30 miles long. Although Roads carried the mail stage Brunel had been elected a Fellow coaches and they were the fast of the Royal Society in 1830, the passenger lifeline between the decision to appoint him the GWR two cities. Traffic jams were not engineer on 7 March 1833 was a uncommon with carts and wagons leap of faith He set about surveying the route clogging the roads at pinch points. This functional but slow link effec- of a railway from Bristol to Bath tively limited trade, rationed supplies where it joined the Kennet and and kept the prices of goods and Avon Canal and then constructing a railway from Reading to London. transport artificially high. Animals such as pigs, cattle and • Next month Steve will write about sheep bought at Bristol had to be the next stage in the early years of herded all the way to London as no the GWR. other method or economic mode

Auditions in April Performers and behind the scenes technical people aged 9 to 19 are invited to auditions for this summer’s Wyvern Theatre Youth Project production of The Wizard of Oz to take place on 24 April, with call backs the next day. They take place at the Phoenix Theatre at New College and the show will be staged from Sunday 15 August to Sunday 29 August. Application forms can be downloaded from www.wyverntheatre.org. uk > click on education and community

19/02/2010 11:58

Unit 35 BSS House Cheney Manor, Swindon Ample free parking

Tel/Fax 01793 513069 Email: mail@facswindon.co.uk

At STEAM in April Bring your treasures for valuation at the BBC Antiques Roadshow. Entry to the event is free on Thursday 22 April, from 9.30am to 4.30pm. See more details in the April Link. Roadshow presenter Fiona Bruce

21-52 March 10.indd 23

Fundraising

Friday 12 March, 5pm to 8pm Charity event in aid of Naomi House Children’s Hospice Tenpin Swindon, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park 16 lanes and prizes donated by the manager Adults £10, children £5 Advance booking advised - reserve lanes at Tenpin Friday, 12 March 7.15pm for 7.30pm start Quiz Night organised by The Friends of The Ridgeway School Teams of up to 6, £8 per head, includes a fish and chip supper or, on request, vegetarian alternative, limited bar service. Tickets available until 1 March Call 846100 Ridgeway School Hall

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The first on Saturday 13 March will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the naming ceremony of Evening Star. The locomotive returned to Swindon in September 2008 and now takes pride of place at STEAM’s recreated station platform. Museum staff are appealing to anyone who worked on the engine. “It would be great if we could hear from those who remember working on Evening Star,” said Elaine Arthurs, collection officer at STEAM. “We would like to invite them to our celebrations on 13 March so they can share memories with each other and also with visitors.” If you worked on Evening Star call Elaine Arthurs on 466607 or mail: earthurs@swindon.gov.uk

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eswa at✩ ✩ ✩

Tel: 07771 881312

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The unveiling of Evening Star, the last locomotive to be built in Swindon Works, to be commemorated at STEAM on 13 March

Need help with that technical stuff ? Don’t have a clue what to do ? Want to know what I can do ?

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BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

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Framework Art & Craft

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Lots of extra bargains

Est. 1920

STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway, is hosting a series of events to coincide with the 175th year to give people of all ages the opportunity to enjoy a range of activities related to Swindon’s railway heritage.

SWINDON’S FAMILY SHOE SHOP

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Museum marks railway anniversary

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PC\Laptop Repair\Rebuilds, Data Recovery, Installs, Printers, Networking - wireless & cabled, Music & Video streaming Games console online setup (XBox, PS3, Wii) Mobile phone support (iPhone, Nokia, Blackberry etc) iPod\iTunes support TV\Surround setup Movie creation & transfer

*****NO FIX, NO FEE*****

Honest, Friendly service, Reasonable rates. Web: www.Gatesway-Networks.co.uk Email: Tim@Gatesway-Networks.co.uk

Saturday 13 March 12noon to 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice from many therapists and beauty specialists Drove Peoples Campus, Southampton Street, SN1 3AH Proceeds from door entry (£2) refreshments and raffle to The MS Society - Swindon Friday 19 March 7pm for 7.30pm start Quiz Night Tregoze Primary School Food and a licenced bar Teams of up to 6, £10 per team Call 867800 to book

19/02/2010 11:58

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Wednesday 3rd, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital. Original Sax Quartet. £5, buffet £3.50. Wyvern Thursday 4th, 7.30pm Off The Wall. Pink Floyd classics from 1960s to the present day with dramatic visual effects. £18.50. Wyvern Thursday 4th, 8pm Rock For Goldenhar featuring The Sound Crew with covers of post punk, ska and Britpop songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s; Deep Thought performing classic rock originals and covers; Vicious of the Beloved playing their own modern metal. £3. All proceeds to Goldenhar UK Support Group. The 12Bar Swindon, Westcott Place Thursday 4th, 8pm The Tiger Lillies. Alternative cabaret including the songs of Shockheaded Peter and other Gorey Verses. Ages 16 and over only. £15. Arts Centre Friday 5th, 8pm Larry Miller Band. International blues rock guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 6th, 8pm Colvin Quarmby presented by Friends of Swindon Arts Centre. Guitars, drums and percussion, fiddle, cello, squeezebox and five part vocal harmonies led by Gerry Colvin. £12. Arts Centre Sunday 7th, 7.30pm Charlie Landsborough. Charlie and his five piece band play music which ranges from inspirational to country, from ballad to anthem. £19. Wyvern Sunday 14th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series with Nigel Cliffe, baritone and Paul Turner, piano. £12, accompanied under 14s free. Arts Centre Tuesday 16th, 7.30pm Jethro Tull continuing with live perfomances after 41 years on the road. £28.50. Wyvern Thursday 18th, 7.30pm Bjorn Again. An ironic parody with Abba’s timeless classics. £19.50. Wyvern

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Bradon Forest Theatre Bradon Forest School, Purton. Tel: 773981 Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35 BSS House, Cheney Manor. Tel: 513069 Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 770401

Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 Swindon Dance Town Hall Theatre Regent Circus. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328/466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481

Confirm date, time & price with venue

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Thursday 18th to Saturday 27th, excl Sunday 21st 101st Swindon Music Festival. See details at www.swindonmusicfestival. co.uk or call 823849 Saturday 20th, 7.30pm A Touch of Disney. Songs from your favourite Disney shows presented by K School of Music. £9. Wyvern Saturday 27th, 7.30pm Verdi’s Requiem performed by Swindon Choral Society accompanied by West Forest Sinfonia. In aid of BUILD (Building Understanding through International Links for Development). £10, accompanied under 18s free, tickets from Swindon Information Centre. Marlborough College Chapel Tuesday 30th, 8pm Sarah Gillespie Quartet. A sonic reflection of the contemporary Greenwich-born singer songwriter with a melting-pot mix of urban folk and middle-eastern blues. £10. Arts Centre

Circus

Sunday 14th, 7.30pm

Circus of Horrors with amazing bloodcurdling stunts in their new show The Day of the Dead. Strictly for adults only. £16.50. Wyvern

Comedy

Monday 1st to Wed 3rd, 7.30pm Stop Messing About - The Kenneth Williams Extravaganza. Based on the eponymous 1960s BBC Radio show with outrageously funny sketches, parodies and songs. £17. Wyvern Tuesday 2nd, 8pm Scottish Falsetto. Sock Puppets & Ali Cook. The Socks are the comedy double act that has to be seen to be believed. £10. Arts Centre Monday 15th, 8pm Tom Wrigglesworth presented by Comedy Store Management. A cross between Sideshow Bob and Mark Thomas, join Tom as he recounts a hilarious and heartwarming Virgin train journey. £12. Arts Centre Friday 19th, 8pm Chris Addison. A brand new show from this critically acclaimed stand-up. £16. Wyvern Monday 29th & Tues 30th, 7.30pm Hot Flush. Outrageous musical for the perfect girls’ night out, starring Lesley Joseph. £18. Wyvern

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Saturdays 13th & 27th, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges, Steam Sunday 14th Mothers Day Outing. Mums visit free with a paying adult or child. Special willow crafts for the mums (with a little help from their offspring). Normal admission charges apply to others. Roves Farm Sunday 21st, 1pm & 3.30pm Postman Pat with a Very Royal Mission. Plenty of fun and participation. £13, children £11, family £42. Wyvern

Dance

Friday 5th & Saturday 6th, 7.30pm And The Beat Goes On presented by Teresa’s School of Dance. A fun filled show performed by local students. £9. Wyvern Wednesday 31st, 7.30pm Brian Fortuna and Kristina Rihanoff. An evening with the stars of Strictly Come Dancing and a chance for members of the audience to dance with them on stage. £18.50. Wyvern

Musical

Thursday 11th to Saturday 13th, 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm The Hot Mikado presented by Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society. A lively production with jazz and gospel arrangements and exciting tap dance routines. £10 - £13. Wyvern

Film

Wednesday 3rd, 7.45pm Katyn (15). Powerful, heartfelt drama about the Katyn Forest atrocity of 1940 in which 22,000 Poles were murdered - including the director’s father. Arts Centre. Swindon Film Society (SFS) Wednesday 17th, 7.45pm Let the Right One In (15). From Sweden, is it a delicate and touching first romance, or ... a vampire movie?. Arts Centre. Swindon Film Society (SFS) Wednesday 31st, 7.45pm Broken Embraces (15). Spanish director Almodovar turns to affairs of the heart in his latest work - a film noir which proves to be a love letter to cinema itself. Arts Centre. Swindon Film Society (SFS). Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

21-52 March 10.indd 25

Talk

Swindon College

Monday 1st, 6pm

Nanoparticles - the good, the bad and the truth. Science and Technology Facilities Council’s Talking Science public lecture. Dr Stephen King explores the myths behind nanoparticles and talks about his research using the ISIS neutron source. Free, but only if booked on 442092 or www.stfc.ac.uk/stfc@ stfc The Spot Bar, Godwin Court, Old Town

Theatre

Tuesday 2nd, 7.30pm The Department of Smelling Pistakes, a new physical comedy twohander set in a Russian governmental office presented by Publick Transport Theatre Company. £6 adults, £5 students. Bradon Forest Theatre Wednesday 10th to Sat 13th, 7.30pm 84 Charing Cross Road presented by Western Players. In 1949 a struggling American writer indulging her love of beautiful books starts a correspondence with a British antiquarian bookseller that was to last for 20 years. £6, tickets from 433297. Arts Centre Tuesday 16th, 8pm A Handful of Henna presented by Rasa and Oxfordshire Theatre Company. Being dragged by her mother back to the family village thousands of miles away is no fun for 13 year old Nasreen. A moving story about the mystical power of henna and one girl’s journey to understanding her mother. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 20th, 7pm Murder Mystery Evening. Enjoy a three course meal as you watch the plot unfold and attempt to unravel the mystery. £34. Wyvern Monday 22nd to Saturday 27th, 7.30pm; Thurs & Sat 2.30pm The Woman In Black. A terrifying story and one of the most chilling and successful theatre events ever staged. £16 - £23. Wyvern

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Exhibitions

Until Saturday 27th Inspired by Stonehenge. Stonehenge related memorabilia collected and curated by archaeologist and broadcaster Julian Richards. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Tuesday 2nd to Wednesday 31st, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm Saturdays 9am to 5pm Swindon Artists’ Forum exhibition. Free. Framework Art & Craft From Saturday 27th Keeping Lydiard in Stitches by the Great Western Embroiderers. A display of traditional, complex and unusual embroidery inspired by Lydiard House and Park and St Mary’s Church. Normal admission charges. Lydiard House

19/02/2010 12:02

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Including carers of kids with disability

Parents and carers of children with disabilities are invited to two meetings to encourage participation and influence of services provided by Swindon Borough Council and NHS Swindon. Organised by the Swindon Parents & Carers Advisory Group, there will be reports on key successes over the last twelve months, including the Hop Skip and Jump project at Lydiard Park, the Playbuilder scheme, and short breaks in Swindon. There will be discussions on parent participation, short breaks, transition to adult services and a variety of information stands relating to services and charities that support disabled children and young people. The meetings take place at Swindon Town FC, County Ground, on: • Tuesday 9 March, 5.30pm to 9.30pm (registration from 5pm); • Wednesday 10 March, 10am to 2pm (registration from 9.30am). Details at: www.swindonparentsandcarers.org.uk or call the Aiming High Team on 464080.

Studley Grange welcomes otters

A new attraction arrives at Studley Grange craft village in early March when a group of otters takes up residence. An architect designed purpose built enclosure includes a shelter, two ponds and a large area to watch the creatures scampering about. A second enclosure is being built for the introduction by the summer of those loveable TV stars, a family of meerkats. See the Studley Grange advert on page 25. www.studleygrange.co.uk

Be inspired with ideas

Swindon Inspiration Club meets monthly to share resources, ideas and wisdom about how to live a happier life, positivity, motivation and holistic health, with the help of speakers from different fields. New members will be welcome on Friday 26 March at the Madison Hotel, Oxford Road, Stratton St Margaret to hear top car rally driver and presenter Penny Mallory, right, give a powerful talk on motivation and achievement. Details from: www.inspiritualityclub.com

21-52 March 10.indd 26

19/02/2010 10:05

Swindon Wide

Community radio station celebrates second anniversary with a move in mind

Swindon 105.5 will be two years old in March. Station manager Shirley Ludford talks to Juliet Platt about what has been achieved and the bigger and brighter things to come. When an Ofcom community radio and help people understand their licence came available for Swindon role better.” Seeing how people develop their in March 2007, well known local personality Shirley had a year to communications skills by volunteerpull a viable organisation together. ing with the station is something “I swore never to go back into that Shirley is very proud of. “Our radio broadcasting,” said Shirley, service has gained great respect who’s had an exciting and varied with all levels of Swindon society. “We have people of all ages, career in Swindon media, including BBC Wiltshire Sound, Wiltshire abilities and backgrounds on our Radio (now Heart), and starting as team, and we’ve made a huge a community TV broadcaster on achievement in broadcasting with cable with Swindon Viewpoint. “But the opportunity to pursue my passion of taking radio out into the community was too great to miss. “It’s a much more personal medium than TV or the internet, and it’s becoming increasingly mobile as people now listen to the radio over their phones. “We are very keen to promote arts and Swindon 105.5, presently broadcasting from the County Ground, will be moving to much larger premises in cultural activity in the Eldene later in the year. However there will be major town and we want costs involved and fundraising was kicked off at a to be known as the Bombay Lounge charity evening in November. Shirley station that likes to receives a cheque for £400 from Hanif Robani say ‘yes.’ If there is a creative idea, we try to figure out people rather than for them.” Many secondary schools have how it can be put on air rather than blocking it because it doesn’t fit our also asked Shirley to provide media training opportunities for pupils. broadcasting profile.” Shirley is particularly pleased The community focus of the station has attracted a team of very that communities such as Broad willing volunteers keen to learn Green and Penhill have begun to about broadcasting, pursue a cre- produce their own programmes. ative interest, or provide valuable “It’s important that these areas find their voice, and radio is a powerful experience between jobs. “One of our volunteers had been and positive medium for bringing out of work for 18 months, but since people together to do that.” The station is funded by a comhe came to us he has featured on Sky TV, and has now moved onto bination of grants, donations and support in kind. “Covering core a new job,” said Shirley. New College media student Jack costs is really difficult, so we do rely Young has been working at 105.5 on regular donations from people since September which he said ‘has who are enthusiastic about what we do,” said Shirley. been absolutely brilliant.’ And what does the future hold “There aren’t many opportunities to learn about radio production. I for 105.5? “We’ve made our mark on the even manned the desk a few weeks ago when we had our ‘New College town and because of demand takes over’ slot. It was quite scary we’ve secured larger premises to start with but I think I did quite for our studios and where we can offer more structured training for well by the end.” Finding out who listens is practi- volunteers and students. “But to sustain our success all the cally impossible said Shirley. “We prefer to measure our success people of Swindon have to support by the value we give to our users, us by listening, donating money or our volunteers and our community volunteering.” Tune in to Swindon 105.5fm partners. For example the police are on your dial or visit very keen to work with us to raise www.swindon1055.com their presence in the community

21-52 March 10.indd 27

Wedding Fayre at new ‘home from home’ wedding reception venue Spittleborough Farmhouse We have a great variety to tickle your fancy including wedding items for sale, so cash and cheque books at the ready!

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19/02/2010 12:04

the bigger picture

Swindon Wide

The Railway Old Museum evocatively pictured in the 1980s by Roy Nash, left. The Platform in use in February, right

Once a methodist chapel then a hostel for railway workers, more recently a museum for Swindon’s railway heritage and then for a short while a community meeting hall and art gallery, the old museum on Faringdon Road has reopened as The Platform after a £1 million refurbishment by Swindon Council to create a huge youth centre complete with 30 seat railway buffet carriage

along one wall. Dr Schmoo’s Urban Circus held three days of music, dance, recycled art, circus skills and partner yoga workshops in mid-February. The large main hall will be used for band nights and concerts, arts based events, and there will be an internet cafe and youth support and advice services like Connexions. Jake the Juggler of Dr Schmoo,

Opening at The Platform on 1 March Connexions offering drop-in advice and information on education, careers, housing, money, health and relationships opens on: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am to 4.30pm; Wednesday and Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm. For details call 549200

21-52 March 10.indd 28

who used to run Swindon’s juggling club in the hall before it closed for refurbishment said, “it’s fantastic to be back. We want to organise lots of activities which give young people a chance to express themselves through music, street art and performance.” Lottie Mills from Lydiard Millicent said, “it’s good to have a safe place where young people can get together and do things; it’s much better than hanging around on the streets.” A series of official opening events are being planned for the end of March.

Set to represent

Greendown Year 11 pupil Carney Bonner has been elected as Swindon’s Youth MP for the UK Youth Parliament after winning a majority of the 5,392 votes cast in schools and colleges.

The teenager from Priory Vale says he wants more youth events in the town and will be working hard on the anti-bullying campaign.

18/02/2010 12:31

Swindon Wide

Quiz Night for Swindon Ocotal Link (Swindon’s twin town in Nicaragua) Chilli & Apple Crumble Supper fundraising evening Friday 26 March, 7.30pm to 10.30pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, Rodbourne Tickets: £8; cons. £4; under 12s £2 Organise a team or fit into a team on the night Bring your own drinks to enjoy with supper Tickets from Rita Heads on 495073 or by mail: r.heads@ntlworld.com

Life-changing charity trip to Thailand

Last year Midge McCormack, who used to teach at Shaw Ridge Primary School raised £2,000 to renovate the school kitchen at the Isaan Boys’ Town in North East Thailand, part of the Joe Homan foundation. In December she went there to see how it was spent.

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“Returning to the materialism of Christmas just after coming back was a real shock,” said Midge. “The Buddhist culture that I’d experienced was completely the opposite. People have only what they need and anything beyond that only causes stress and worry.” She and her travel companion Rosemary Phillimore expected to mend clothes and mosquito nets during their time with the boys, but instead were struck by their resourcefulness and entrepreneurial skills. Midge said, “they grow their own produce and orchids, which they sell to raise funds, and they do all their own laundry, ironing, cooking and sewing. They also had just received a donation of brightly coloured mosquito nets, so we spent most of our time talking to them in English and helping them build their confidence in the language.” The Isaan Boys’ Town celebrated its 20th anniversary during their trip, and charity founder Joe Homan himself flew in from India for the party. The Boys Town is run by 76 year old Dr Anukul. “He’s such an inspirational man,” said Midge. “The boys are aged 11 to 18 and they are all so happy and cooperative. There was no aggression at all in their behaviour, and it was quite amazing how they stood by each other.” The poverty and lack of possessions became especially apparent on a tour of the boys’ dormitories,

21-52 March 10.indd 29

with four boys sharing a cupboard to store their school books and an occasional toy. Midge and Rosemary are hoping to establish closer links between Swindon schools and Isaan Boys Town through a website and resource pack for teachers. Midge added, “the boys thought I was a bit famous when I showed them my picture in The Link.” • Midge raised a further £350 at a Bombay Lounge charity curry evening at the end of January, plus £126 from a raffle

Tinned goods for a toned body

Between 1 and 14 March, to mark International Women’s Day, Curves Swindon, the women only gym, is offering free membership in return for a tinned food donation to Swindon’s Women’s Refuge. For details call Curves on 0800 130 0544. www.curves.co.uk

Coffee break for meningitis help

The Meningitis Trust – the UK’s longest established meningitis charity - is looking for people to help make a difference by holding a Coffee Break on its behalf in March. To register for a fundraising pack call 0845 120 4530. www.meningitis-trust.org/coffeebreak

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19/02/2010 12:47

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Get your legs in gear for the annual Sarsen Trail

Are the treadmill and exercise bike becoming a chore? Celebrate the coming of spring with an outdoor workout on the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s unique Sarsen Trail and Neolithic Marathon on Sunday 2 May. There is a variety of distances for distance you choose, it really is a Walk, run, cycle - or follow the fantastic day. You’re out in the fresh dog - on this historic fundraiser in all ages and levels of ability. “This will be the 23rd year of the air, taking in magnificent scenery, aid of the county’s wildlife through the beautiful landscape of Wiltshire, Sarsen Trail and the first for the and raising money for charity at the starting at Avebury, along the Vale new seven-mile walk - a good op- same time. We get groups coming of Pewsey, across Salisbury Plain, tion for young families,” said trust back year after year - some of them organiser Derek Gard. “Whatever in fancy dress, which adds to the and ending at Stonehenge. sense of fun.” To qualify for big discounts on the Stormin’ Norman holds his own for SMASH entry fees for the various distances on offer, book before 19 March. Norman Butler from Westlea was featured in the Call the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust January Link preparing to go into the ring to raise on 01380 725670 for an entry form or money for and awareness of cash strapped Swinregister online: www.wiltshirewildon Mentoring & Self Help (SMASH) after several dlife.org month’s training. Dog lovers and their dogs can Read his account of the three round fight at the also take part. More details at: www. Swindon Boxing Academy which raised £1,700 for cani-cross.co.uk SMASH at www.swindonlink.com

Heading for county finals

Having won the West Swindon High Five Netball title, and then overwhelmed schools across the town in the Swindon championships in early February, the squad from Tregoze Primary School in Grange Park will represent the town at the Wiltshire tournament on 19 March. Left, triumphant Tregoze players with the Swindon Primary Schools cup

Murray mania building at Delta

Andy Murray’s performance at the recent Australian Open had a positive effect on the number of youngsters who took part in the Delta Tennis Centre’s February half term camp.

Dozens of keen children from 5 to 15 years took part in classes for beginners and more experienced players, with each session ending in a mini-tournament. Delta manager Gail Light was delighted by the response. “Andy has really sparked a wave of interest; it’s lovely to see all the newcomers discovering that tennis is a lot of fun. “Everybody has high hopes for Andy at this year’s Wimbledon and I’m sure he will continue to stimulate interest in the game for a long time.”

SWINDON CYCLE ORIENTEERING Sunday 25th April

A fun cycle orienteering event for all the family Come and see Swindon from a different perspective. Choose between 1, 2 or 3 hour rides (must be finished by 3pm). Collect orienteering points along the way and hand cards in at the checkpoints. Prizes for the three highest scores in each time category. Start at Coate Water Country Park, Malborough Road, Swindon, SN3 6AA (alternative start points at Link Centre and Haydon Centre). Please use a roadworthy bike. We recommend carrying a pump and a spare inner tube or puncture repair kit. Please register in advance. Download entry forms from www.challengeswindon.org.uk or call Anna Cipullo on 01793 511033 or 07717 696 672. Limited on-the-day entries accepted at Coate Water only.

21-52 March 10.indd 30

19/02/2010 10:07

swindonlink.com • March 2010

People getting on their bikes – and feet – to raise money for others…

Cycling for charity Carl and Jason McCulloch, James Richards and Darren Rogers, right, from Trak Employment in Westlea aim to raise £5,200 for Help for Heroes on a 300 mile cycle ride from London to Paris in May. The charity has particular significance for Carl. He said, “my wife’s cousin was killed on patrol in Iraq, so this means a great deal to our family.” Through quiz and race nights, pool and poker tournaments their total so far is £4,000. Donations can be made at www.doitforcharity.com/ teamtrak

Peter Noone from Common Platt, right, hopes to raise £2,500 for Friends of Young Carers (Swindon) on his four day cycling marathon from London to Paris in July. Peter said, “I’m approaching 50 and want to achieve something memorable before I get there.” Sponsor Peter at: www.charitygiving. co.uk/peternoone. Chris Seager from Peatmoor, below right, will be cycling and camping further afield in May on a 300 mile bike trek in Malawi. Funds raised will go to Action Aid’s projects in Malawi and Mozambique. Chris said, “the charity supports schools, local services, and helps people living with Aids and HIV, so, with my enthusiasm for cycling, this seemed a good mix.” His target is £3,200 and if you’d like to help call 07888 679618. Running the London Marathon Mark Chandler, from Freshbrook, left, is running for the NSPCC and aims to raise over £2,000. He ran London in 2000 and this time is keen to complete the course in under 4 hours, 30 minutes quicker than last time. To pledge your support, mail: markchndler@aol.com Trudie Walker from Abbey Meads, below, will be running in the memory of her father who died of a genetic brain disorder, She said, “my dad used to run a lot and I promised him I’d run the marathon for him. It’s going to be a really emotional day but it’ll be a big achievement.” Donations to help her raise £1,500 for the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery Development Foundation can be made at: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ trudiewalker She is also holding a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge on 5 April. To book a table call 887799.

Cricket club looks for new players Purton Cricket Club are inviting new players to join them for pre-season training ready for the summer. The club has two Saturday teams playing in the West of England Premier League Wiltshire Division and two teams in the Swindon Mid-Week League. For details mail: martin.deeley@ntlworld.com.

21-52 March 10.indd 31

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19/02/2010 12:07

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Totally Divine The Link Magazine Nails & Tanning

Swindon Crazy athletes joinPublications the Mad MarchLtd Hare 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX

Amongst theRegistered 500 orinso runners and walkers who will be welcoming England & Wales. No 4513027 Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. RG17 0DL 7 March, in aid of Spring amongst Lydiard Park’s daffodils on Sunday 78 Basepoint Business Centre, Breakthrough Breast Cancer will be Swindon’s maddest athletes. Tel: (01793) 608840 or (01793)two 602540 Rivermead Dr, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7EX Les Slinn, left, will be warming up for Nail Training also available Fax: (01793) 608841 the Marathon Des Sables in early April, Spray 01793 by running with the rucksack he’ll be carTan rying on the six day 243km trek across the 602445 £17.50 Sahara desert. Alongside him will be Swindon ﬁtness fanatic Mike Buss who has run several marathons this year and recently wore a Nail Extensions; Natural Tips, French Tips, Coloured Tips & Glitter Tips, nuclear, chemical and biological warfare suit 3 February 2010 Therapy Date :.............................................. Business Name: Hypoxi ............................................................................... plus Natural Overlays, Manicures and and 40lb rucksack whilst trying to break ﬁve Nail Art; Freehand and Airbrushed. world records in four days in mid-February. Tanning with Famous Dave. Please check this proof of yourSpray advertisement to appear in The Link magazine asThe specified on Hare our follows a route Mad March www.totallydivine.net around the Lydiard Park, starting from advertisement booking confirmation which you will have received, or is in the post. Greendown School in Grange Park at 10am. bruary e F www.madmarchhare.org.uk 8 y a • If it is correct, sign below and return immediately by post or fax. nd

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Free class at gym open day: 7 March

Swindon School of Gymnastics are delighted that they will soon be Proceed to publication, Make changes and able to double the size of their fully equipped gymnasium on the Isis after alteration shown send new proof Industrial Estate which will allow them to provide places for all the children on the waiting list.

I understand that the design, layout and graphics (other than those supplied by me) used in the advertisement below The club wants to have the extra county, South West and national ABBEY MEADS Tuesday 6.30pm Abbey Meads School, is copyright to Swindon Publications Ltd. and no part will be reproduced in any otherforpublication. space kitted out and ready use by competitions across all ages for Hugo Drive, Paula 701442 HAYDON WICK Monday 6.30pm & 8.30pm Thursday 6.30pm St John Church, Thames Avenue (next to Morrisons) Sharon 0784 111 9082 N.B. If we do not hear from SHAW you by the date above, we Wednesday 7pm Brook Field School, Drive note about colour: Due to Cartwright different print processes, Sharon 0784 111 9082

the summer. They hope to install a boys, girls and also adult categories. There’s a chance for children and pit bar, foam pit, full length tumble Signed ................................................................................. Date .................................... parents to visit the club on Sunday track and a sunken trampoline. The imminent expansion will 7 March, 2pm to 4pm. will you advert forchildren publication. ﬁrst 50 over 8 years alsoassume enable thethat club to hostaccept regional the The to ring or email the centre will be competitions. A theCoached coloursbyused on thisgroup proofoffered should only taken a free twobe hour class.as a dedicated Register by calling 480846 or mail: of volunteers, gymnasts have been a guide of what your advertisement will look like when the magazine is printed. producing excellent results in club, ssginfo@tiscali.co.uk

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21-52 March 10.indd 32

19/02/2010 10:09

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Registrations open for Swimathon 2010

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Swimathon supporter Blue Peter presenter and Dancing on Ice contestant Zöe Salmon

on Mondays and Wednesdays - various themes. 1-1 / drop in / 10 wk / 20 wk courses Call Nancy 07540 049693 Please enquire for more info on the additional therapies available Unit 80 Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon, SN5 7EX www.therapy4sports.com

Swimmers can show their support at Link Centre, Health Hydro, Milton Road and Lime Kiln Leisure Centre, Wootton Bassett. Now in its 24th year, over half a million swimmers have taken part in Swimathon - swimming the equivalent of over 24 times round the world and raising over £30 million for charity. Register for Swimathon at www.swimathon.org or call 0845 36 700 36.

Would you like to feel Happier, Healthier and more Relaxed? Physical and Emotional Therapies - helping you to live your life to its fullest potential – including Reflexology, Reiki, Hopi Ear Candling and Emotional Freedom Technique (for trauma, fears, phobias, stress, anger, panic and anxiety, etc).

De Vere workout keeps teachers at the top of their game

At Greendown School the staff and pupils are the heart and soul of the school, writes teacher training coordinator Vicki Buchalik.

£5 off first visit for new clients Call now on (01793) 871410 Certified Reiki and AAMET EFT Practitioner Courses

Cherri Ann Matthews FFHT FICHT ATLM MIfL

www.cherriannmatthews.co.uk

The Thyme Treatment Rooms

Vicki Buchalik, left, introducing her colleagues to the De Vere equipment, from left, Rachel Barrett, Paula Snook, Anne Clements, Alison Bradley

Teaching can be pretty demanding and during the staff induction programme for Newly Qualiﬁed Teachers and second year teaching staff, good health and well being is discussed and encouraged. But as a sports college, at Greendown School we put this into practice by offering practical sessions in the school gym, exercise classes and staff football. This year the De Vere Hotel at Shaw Ridge hosted an afternoon where the new staff could use its gym, swimming pool and spa facilities. We’re very thankful to the De Vere for providing access to their excellent facilities. As busy working adults it’s easy to forget to look after ourselves which can result in a deterioration of workplace performance and more illness. It’s important that we teachers keep at the top of our game for the beneﬁt of the children.

Going the extra mile for Sport Relief

Greendown School is doing its bit for Sport Relief on Friday 19 March with an afternoon of activities for pupils and staff. Parents are also being invited to take part in the Sports Relief mile by running it normally, or by skipping, hopping, with a partner three legged style, or in fancy dress. The cost is a £1 voluntary donation and purchase of Sports Relief socks is optional. During the afternoon the school’s sports council will also be showing a DVD they have made to highlight the issues behind Sports Relief and who will benefit from the fundraising event.

21-52 March 10.indd 33

Essensa Organic Skincare Facial & Body Treatments Ariane Poole Make Up Massage Aromatherapy Reﬂexology Reiki Hot Stone Therapy Sports Massage Therapy St Tropez Spray Tanning Eye lash Extensions Hollywood Waxing Bio-Sculpture Gel for Nails Minx Nails Manicures & Pedicures Thai Compress Massage

Tel: 01793 433338 709 Delta Ofﬁce Park, Welton Road, Swindon www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk

18/02/2010 12:35

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Site for local supporters against Asiatic moonbear farming

Professional friendly service for every aspect of your dog’s grooming needs

Collection & delivery service Evening and weekend appointments available Just

5 minutes from West Swindon

Ring Denise on 01793 327379 or 07866 507633 www.hairofthedoggroomers.co.uk

Swindon supporters of Animals Asia can now keep in touch with local information and fundraising events at a web site with links to the main charity’s web site which has regular updates on the work to rescue moonbears from bile farms in China and Vietnam. Sarah Chilvers, from Peatmoor, feature local events ourselves rather founder of Animals Asia Swindon than having to go through Animals with her husband Dave, has been Asia in Hong Kong.” Details about the work to save helped by her father Hugh Young moonbears from barbaric treatment to get the site up and running. “At 69 years old he’s a completely and information on how you can self-taught silver surfer and he’s help the local support group can done a brilliant job,” said Sarah. “It be found at: makes it so much easier for us to www.animalsasia-swindon.co.uk

Sighted and visually impaired people are being invited to take part in a Blind Drive on 6 June at Kemble Airfield to raise money for Swindon Guide Dogs. Details are being finalised but registration of drivers is now taking place. If you can help raise funds by getting your family, friends and work colleagues to sponsor you to take to the track, call Alan Fletcher on 827589 or mail: shiralan@fletcas. freeserve.co.uk

Get the buzz from being a bee supporter

Janet’s Puppy Skool Have 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 agility workshops

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk APDT Member (01066) Janet Garrett DipCAPBT Dip.dog.psy

Tel: 01793 727158 email: janet.garrett@virgin.net

As national concern continues over the decline of bees - a practical worry as a third of the food we eat is grown thanks to the humble bee - membership of the Swindon Beekeepers Association (SBA) has doubled to eight people in the last three years. SBA officer Ross Gregory said, edly due to the amount of publicity which can become quite addictive. “this growth of interest is undoubt- the honeybee problem has been Before getting a colony we encourgetting. Some national media have age newcomers to do a beekeeping implied hives can be kept in gar- course with hands-on experience.” For cat owners Outdoor classes take place in the dens, but we discourage this unless on benefits your garden and your neighbours' summer, which include regular apiSwindon Cats Protection are of- gardens are the size of tennis courts. ary sessions, giving new beekeepers “Beekeeping is not simply keep- an opportunity to handle bees, learn fering free neutering for male and female cats over 5 months old to ing a hive at the bottom of the what they should be looking for and garden in the summer. It’s a com- what decisions to make. owners on benefits in March. There are also one-day IntroducFor a list of participating vets mitment to routine and regular activities, especially from March tion to Beekeeping courses in April call 644536. and May. For details, see: to September. www.swindon.cats.org.uk “Beekeeping is a satisfying hobby www.wiltshirebeekeepers.org.uk

“Making life better ”

March Vaccination Amnesty We understand that with the recession, post-Christmas costs and mounting bills, vaccinations for your pet are sometimes forgotten. We can help you put your pet’s vaccinations back on track protecting them from contracting contagious diseases ; without putting too much strain on your purse strings.

ONLINE If you have an un-vaccinated cat or dog over six months of SHOP age or a pet whose vaccines have lapsed for more than a year then act now and continue to protect your pet. Your pet will receive a full medical examination to ensure he is in tip top condition and then be given a full two week vaccination course for the cost of only a booster, a great discount of up to £21.00. Plus if you join our Pet Healthclub plan, you get a further 10% discount and make savings on all your pet’s preventative care. To find out how much you can save, call us on 526780 Or log onto our website www.thameswoodvets.co.uk Present this advert at reception to claim your discount

Care - always

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Put your pet’s vaccinations back on track

21-52 March 10.indd 34

Driving for guide dog support

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

19/02/2010 12:12

Final Ad (Nov)

28/10/09

17:13

Page 1

Calling local clubs and groups

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21-52 December 09.indd 41

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19/11/2009 11:34

swindonlink.com • March 2010

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21-52 March 10.indd 36

Bob Fisher turning on the tap to allow treated water to ﬂow into the River Ray

The series of ponds have been built on the northern edge of Shaw Forest park, close to Sparcells, on the edge of the River Ray. Designed by Swindon Borough Council with assistance from the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust at Slimbridge, and approval of the Environment Agency, the aim is to treat low level contaminated water running off the former landfill site. The cost of the project at £240,000 is the same as the council was paying every year to pay to pump the contaminated water into tankers for specialist treatment near Bristol. Different varieties of reeds have been planted in the ponds and as water flows by gravity from higher to lower level, contaminants will be neutralised explained site manager Bob Fisher. “The wet winter months have shown that the water is contained within the system. Over the warmer months the reeds will mature and we’ll see the desired ecology developing as they get to work on pollutants. “We’re allowed to discharge up to 570 cubic litres of filtered water daily into the River Ray but only

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if it meets Environmental Agency fortnightly quality tests. If there is exceptional rain, we can hold storm water back so as not to add to ﬂooding of the River Ray.” Whilst the reed beds will save the council taxpayer money, Shaw Forest park also has a separate deep level collection system whereby some 400 litres of polluted water is pumped daily to the Thames Water treatments works at Barnﬁeld Road, which is a cost to the council. Walkers and cyclists can visit the reed beds from Sparcells or via the River Ray Parkway cycle/ walking route. Wildlife watchers wanted Now that the construction phase is over Bob is keen to see how the birdlife takes to the site. “As the reeds and grasses grow we’re going to see different varieties of birds discovering the area because of the insect life that develops and the shelter provided. It would be good to know what people observe as it develops through the seasons.” If you’d like to offer bird watching skills, call Bob Fisher on 07786 020886.

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19/02/2010 10:13

swindonlink.com • March 2010

For keen gardeners Water in Small Spaces

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21-52 March 10.indd 37

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

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18/02/2010 11:01

swindonlink.com • March 2010

FIAT & Alfa Romeo ✶ All cars welcome ✶ cam belt replacement ✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds ✶ electrical fault code reading ✶ MOT repairs ✶ vehicle sales ✶ servicing to light commercials

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21-52 March 10.indd 38

Swindon’s Mr Electric promises struggle-free cycling

Blunsdon-based electric vehicle company e-motion stocks the largest selection of power-assisted cycles in the town, and is the only e-max scooters dealer in the south west. Company owner Mark Butler, who also operates Swindon’s environmentally friendly local courier service Ecolink, said “we’ve gone for what we know to be the best on the market. Power-assisted bikes appeal to business people who need to get to where they’re going comfortably, without having to change clothes and take a shower when they get there. Yet there is still the potential for good exercise as most models need to be travelling up to three miles per hour before the power kicks in.” The bicycles are powered by Mark with the E-Max City and the Go-Cycle lightweight lithium batteries and payable, a cost of about 46p for 50 cost less than 10p to charge up for miles of travel and the ability to use motorcycle lanes in heavy traffic, 56 miles of assisted cycling. “The bikes range in price from this has got to be a very attractive £550 for a shopper to £1,500 for a transport option.” e-motion gives a two year warsportier model,” said Mark. “The piece-de-resistance of power-assisted ranty on all bikes and scooters, and bikes is probably the Gocycle city offers a repair and maintenance bike which is the lightest electric service. “We will build, test and bike in the world. Built from mag- deliver your bike or scooter for free nesium it’s designed by F1 racing anywhere within a 50 mile radius designer Richard Thorpe and will of Swindon,” said Mark. Electric bicycles qualify for fold into a carry case, perfect for the the government’s cycle to work commuting city worker.” The bikes are suitable for riders scheme, by which employees can from 14 upwards; the minimum get up to 40 per cent discount on a age for the scooters is 16 years. new bike as long as their company Mark added, “a motorbike licence supports the scheme. To arrange a free, no-obligation and certificate of basic training is needed for a scooter, as well as a test ride call Mark on 708020 or mail: proper helmet, but with no road tax email@e-motionevc.co.uk

Ricky gets ready for superbike year

Abbey Meads-based superbike racer Ricky Elder is getting set to unveil his new Crane Yamaha R6 bike at a fund-raising event on Saturday 13 March, 7.30pm, in the Cold Harbour, Blunsdon. He’s been riding since he was six and raced for the first time in 2008. Now with backing from contractors’ services company Bedouin Group, Ricky has set his sights on the North Gloucester 600cc championship, some rounds of the British Supersport championship and the Manx Grand Prix in August. Ricky is very keen to get the support of more people in Ricky with last year’s bike Swindon and businesses based in the town. “It’s great to fly the Swindon flag on the race circuit and we’re especially looking for a van rental package so that we can arrive at circuits looking the part.” His team is very much a family affair. As a fully qualified vehicle mechanic Ricky has built his bike and acts as his own promotional manager. His father’s business BE Heating & Plumbing provides sponsorship, takes the pictures and makes the tea in the pits. Tickets for the Cold Harbour unveiling at £10 includes food and a disco, and the chance to meet a home-grown bike hero in the making. See more details at: www.rickyelderracing.co.uk

17/02/2010 11:09

swindonlink.com • March 2010

West gardens wanted for June weekend

After a year’s break Lesley and Ray Dredge are again calling gardeners in West Swindon to open up over the Father’s Day weekend 19 and 20 June in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. To illustrate how popular the event is, previous open garden weekends from 2001 to 2008 raised up to £2,000 each year from entry fees, cream teas and a rafﬂe. If you’re willing to open up in June, mail Lesley at: rdredge1@toucansurf.com

Get your heels on the wheels at the Marie Curie Ladies Driving Challenge Saturday 20 March, 10am to 5pm • RAF Colerne, Nr Chippenham Ladies will have the opportunity to drive 40 foot articulated lorries, police cars, 4x4s, double decker buses and JCBs to name a few. It costs £10 to register and participants are expected to raise £100 sponsorship. This amount will not only pay for both a really fun day out but also ﬁve hours of nursing care for a terminally ill patient in their own home, giving a relative or carer a well earned rest. Marie Curie Cancer Care provides this service totally free. Download an entry form from www.mariecurie.org.uk/events or call Lucy Barons on 0117 942 7132.

North Swindon bus stopped

Thamesdown Transport withdrew Service 12 covering the route between the town centre and Oakhurst via Groundwell West, St Andrew’s Ridge, Abbey Meads and Redhouse on 19 February. It was introduced in June last year after Swindon Council mothballed the Groundwell Park & Ride but Thamesdown Transport managing director Paul Jenkins said the service was no longer commercially viable. “We would like to thank those passengers who used the bus. While a couple of the morning journeys carried reasonable numbers, overall the service was losing money and we were no longer able to carry on with it.” For routes to North Swindon see www.thamesdown-transport.co.uk or call Traveline on 0871 200 2233.

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19/02/2010 10:15

Wayne’s ONE2 ONE

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21-52 March 10.indd 40

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18/02/2010 17:15

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• • • •

• Extension & Garage Conversion Specialists • Project Management • Alterations/Renovations • Garden walls/Patios/Decking • Conservatory bases/Porches

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

hwheating@googlemail.com

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

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

21-52 March 10.indd 41

All aspects of tiling work undertaken Kitchens bathrooms and conservatories Full public liability insurance Free quotes

Call Adam on 345345 or 07968 360207

PB Plastering & Bricklaying General Building Services Including Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating

Call Pete

Tel: 01793 542654 Mob: 07790 283186

The Fitting Crew A local reliable & friendly service

UPVC, Facia and Guttering Specialists 217129

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

doctor glass

Local, friendly, domestic plumbing service with competitive prices Taps, sinks & toilets Leaks & burst pipes Ball valves • Radiators Immersion elements & hot water cylinders Chemical/Powerflushing 24HR EMERGENCY CALLOUT Contact Dom on: Mobile: 07766 106244 Tel: 01793 701736 Email: aquatackler@gmail.com www.aquatackler.co.uk

❖ Loft conversions ❖ Fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms ❖ Doors and windows ❖ Stairs ❖ All other carpentry Clean, reliable 18 years experience Call Derek Ponting on: 01793 882818 or 07865 566508 www.derekponting.co.uk

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

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

         

We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey Local family business 19 yrs experience Repairs & cleaning No job too small All work guaranteed

NO MORE PAINTING - DEAL DIRECT

01793 725155 ELECTRICIAN

& 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

19/02/2010 11:24

BATHROOMS

Plumbing

& Heating

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Bathroom suites and kitchens ﬁtted

❉ Quality bathroom suites

Domestic and Commercial

All work guaranteed

Free Quotations

Tel: 01793 727942

FLOORING

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet • Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only • Commercial/ domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 17 years experience Also minor electrical work undertaken CSCS Cardholder Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 493119 07970 865883

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

De cor ato r

Inc. WALL PAPERING

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

01793 876600 07748 964433

UPVC windows & doors

Approved Plumber

ain te

DECORATOR MARK PONTING

Free estimates

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

Tel: 01793 703550 Mob: 07749 862361 Built upon Quality & Service

For a free estimate call Sean on

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

• Bathroom renovations • Kitchen renovations • All types of wall/floor tiling • All types of plumbing works • Boiler servicing/repairs • Central heating systems • Electrical work/testing • Carpentry/joinery work

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

HEATING & PLUMBING

RJ PEARCE

Quality Plumbing & Heating

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

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

• All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

• Central heating installation

203455

Reg: 128966

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

    

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

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

DECORATOR Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating • High quality experienced workmanship • All work undertaken • A friendly reliable service with references available • Full Public Liability Insurance cover

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

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

Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

215153

MAINTENANCE

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES

KTL

Brian Jones Plastering Services

Semi-retired Plumber

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available Electrical Painting & Decorating Tiling • Plastering Carpentry

Call Andrew on 07718 022201 • Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

March10 Repair & Improv.indd 42

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

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 725834 Mobile: 07976 572905

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

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

18/02/2010 17:54

BUILDING SERVICES

ABC BUILDERS

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

 Alterations  Fencing  Patios  Extensions  Block Paving Driveways No job too small

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

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

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DECORATOR

ELECTRICIAN

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

SAFE & SHAW

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

PAINTING AND DECORATING

Established Swindon decorator experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating Domestic, commercial & letting Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues’ Competitive rates (no VAT) Excellent references Registered and recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association ✓ Age Concern (Wiltshire) approved decorator ✓ Full public liability insurance ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307

HOME MAINTENANCE Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

• Plastering • Carpentry • Garden Maintenance, • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Fencing & Patios • Power Jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive Rates, Flexible Hours, Reliable, No job too small

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

ROOFING

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

HOME MAINTENANCE

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

TILING

LJ TILING

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

WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST

❇❇❇

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

March10 Repair & Improv.indd 43

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

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

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

01793 878609 07885 543294

Kitchens, bathrooms, conservatories and all natural stone. Call Leon for a quote on: Tel: 01793 524147 Mob: 07919255673

ELECTRICIAN Arc Electrical Services Ltd 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

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

Steve George

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

CARPENTRY

J S Property Services

Free no obligation quotes

HOUSEMARTIN The Rooﬁng Specialist

CARPENTRY

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

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

TILING

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

18/02/2010 17:56

ACCOUNTANCY SJ BAKER ACCOUNTING A personal service for small businesses & individuals

✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

Year End Accounts Tax Advice ✶ Bookkeeping VAT Returns ✶ Payroll & PAYE Self Assessments Corporation Tax Management Accounts

FREE initial consultation available evenings and weekends

Telephone: 01793 737087 Mobile: 07717752116 www.sjbakeraccounting.co.uk

CLEANING THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £16 per house. Around £25 for a 4 bed. Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans. One-off Spring cleans Ironing £16 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

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

Email: lynettewhite48@btinternet.com Lynette White is licensed and regulated by the AAT under licence number 5014

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

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885 LINKjulyECOLINKp4p.pdf

COMPUTER SUPPORT

DELIVERIES

Computer problems? Let us help

Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £30 - Range £55 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call

07766 418718

or email: oven@enlan.co.uk

Service Sector March10indd.indd 44

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

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

No call out charge

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

Same day/next day service

CLEANING

Tel: 01793 469300

Bluebelles Cleaning 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

07955 374 201

12/7/09

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Everybody needs a break and with our regular weekly service from just £8 p.h, isn’t there something you would rather be doing? Cleaning help is no longer just for the rich and famous Reliable and Fully Insured Call 01793 723059/07525 148 276 www.betterthanclean.co.uk

21:55:36

GARAGE DOORS

Showroom:

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

Tel: 01793 325685

Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

CHRIS PAYNE

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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

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

OVEN CLEANING

AERIAL SERVICES

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves also undertaken

RECYCLING

TWB SCRAP

Scrap cars removed All metals removed Factories cleared

All Free of Charge Call: 01793 821592 Or 07831 852617 FULLY LICENSED

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

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

18/02/2010 18:00

10 18:00

BOOK-KEEPING Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

CARPET CLEANING

Premier Klean

Abacus Cleaning Services

‘Set the course in cleaning’

PROFESSIONAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Premier Klean has invested in the best cleaning systems possible; our powerful machines give an excellent clean whilst using no harmful chemicals. We offer a comprehensive service.

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

Call now for a free no obligation quotation. 0800 2800 544

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER SUPPORT New to computing? PC running slowly, crashing or hanging? Just need help & advice? Broadband & E-mail setup Virus & Trojan removal Performance issues PC training • Upgrades Semi-retired IT professional with over 30 years experience

Lydiard Computer Services

07749 410614

info@lydiardcs.co.uk www.lydiardcs.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS

Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

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

0808 1554787

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING 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

Walk for touring Village Inn team

Footballers from the Village Inn in Shaw will be playing an international in April when they take on Glasgow team Dunchaple Athletic. The pub club are organising a 5 mile sponsored walk to cover some of their tour costs on Sunday 21 March, from 1.30pm - with optional stops at pubs along the way. Supporters are welcome to participate. Call Bob Livingstone on 07815 487401.

Outdoor activities in the countryside Acorn Education runs courses at Westmill Farm near Shrivenham where you can learn unusual and interesting country ways including: Sunday 7 March: Woodland Crafts Become wood-wise and learn some tree-lore. Create some beautiful and practical birch besoms, make a hurdle, tread the pole lathe, or carve to your heart’s content; Sunday 21 March: Skep Making and Skep Beekeeping Learn how to make skeps for your bees or baskets for your needs, practising the ancient art of lipwork using grasses, briars and withies;

LOCKSMITH

Sunday 4 April: Druidry... and natural wisdom traditions Learn about contemporary nature based spiritualities and natural philosophies; old and new ways of connecting to the natural world and ones own nature;

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

Very competitive rates No call out charge All aspects of carpentry UPVC specialist FREE SECURITY SURVEYS

Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Estate, Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel 01793 878176 • Fax 01793 882639 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

SCRAP METAL

RODDERS SCRAP METAL All metals removed FREE of charge Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc. Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

21-52 March 10.indd 45

Emergency no: 07734 253189 email: enquiries to: oakhurstlocks@aol.com

STORAGE SELF STORAGE

Excellent

value

storage For homes and businesses Call us today for a quote:

01793 855865

www.storeit.ltd.uk Store It Ltd. Unit 17, Rushy Platt Ind Est, Caen View, Swindon, SN5 8WQ

Sunday 18th April: Bark Horns and Willow Whistles Learn the age old practice of winding the grass green horns of folklore and putting a fipple in your green whistle! See details at: www.acorneducation.com

Save now, enjoy a holiday soon Spring is emerging and thoughts are turning to summer holidays, writes Kate Rowe. If you’re putting off your plans because of money, maybe your local credit union could help. If you become a member now and start to save on a regular basis you could be eligible for a loan in time for the summer. You only need to make three regular monthly deposits of £100 per month and, instead of putting off your holiday until the cold weather starts again, you could apply for a loan of up to £600 before the schools break up. We’ll help you to work out repayments to suit your pocket and you’ll be back on track to borrow for Christmas if needs be. Stay one step ahead in your financial planning with credit unions. Anyone living or working in Swindon can join. Two forms of ID - a passport or driving licence - and a recent household bill are needed to join. North of the main railway line - Clivey Credit Union, Clive Parade, 541 Cricklade Road. Open: Wednesday 10am to 12noon; Saturday 11am to 12noon. Tel: 07905 636152 South of the railway line - Steam Ahead Credit Union, Cavendish Square, Park South. Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 10am to 12noon. Tel: 522216. www.swindoncreditunions.co.uk

19/02/2010 10:17

swindonlink.com • March 2010

Women at prayer

Anthony Paul

07970 079681 Mobile Hairdresser Welcomes clients old & new Special offer for new clients - have your hair cut for only £5* (one per household with this advert.)

Stitches Sewing Service

Dressmaking, Alterations and Repairs, Bespoke Costumes

Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc.

Friendly, reliable service Contact Jean on 07887 600319

Sewing Machine Service & Repair Free collection and delivery Set up and tuition also available Tel: 01453 758276 or 077924 71389

This year’s Women’s World Day of Prayer service takes place on Friday 5 March, 10.30am, at Purton Methodist Church, Play Close, Purton. All are welcome to take part in the service prepared by the women of Cameroon.

Lawn & Hedge Cutting • Maintenance General Garden Tidy • Patios • Turfing

Give your garden a makeover Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 j.dowell@live.co.uk

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

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ

TERRY WINTER

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT . . .

RAINWATER HARVESTING HEAT PUMPS SOLAR WATER HEATING WIND TURBINES SOLAR ELECTRICITY . . . then give us a call

Tel: 01793 772277 www.rainwindsun.com E-mail: enquiries@rainwindsun.com

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

Churchyard starts eco makeover

Churchyards are not easy or cheap to look after at the best of times, but members of All Saints Church in Lydiard Millicent have embraced the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Living Churchyard’s project to encourage a greater diversity of wild flowers, butterflies and bird life. As part of the church’s Spring Alive initiative, 15 children from Lydiard Millicent Church of England Primary School joined church members in February to sow part of the churchyard with wild yellow rattle seeds. The school’s eco-club, run by teaching assistants Serena Thompson and Jacqui Ambrose also coordinated the results from RSPB bird surveys comparing results from two sites. At the school 177 birds were observed in an hour including a kestrel and a green woodpecker. The haul in Kirstie and Hayley Ambrose giving the churchyard was a more Lydiard Millicent churchyard a helping hand modest 15 birds in an hour. Yellow Rattle is a mild parasite observe the churchyard develop. on grass which means it is weak“We’ll be making regular visits ened and allows wild flowers more to see how the flowers are growing room to flourish which will in turn and getting involved with other provide a better environment for projects.” insects and birds. The congregation and the school Serena Thompson said “the Eco also hope a wider range of birds club are very excited to be given will discover the churchyard as a this opportunity to be involved and new habitat.

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

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

21-52 March 10.indd 46

19/02/2010 10:18

0% interest free finance

OUR PRICES ARE AS CLEAR AS OUR WIndOWS

YOU ChOOSE hOW tO PAY: A. nO dEPOSIt, pay on completion b. nO dEPOSIt, 0% APR for one year C. nO dEPOSIt, choose between 3 and 15 years to pay at just 6.9% APR

ALL PRICES ARE InCLUSIvE OF vAt And InStALLAtIOn. thERE ARE nO hIddEn COStS!

MRRP £879 You save £230 Over 600 styles to choose from Any white door with white handles and letterbox

60 monthly payments of:

12 windows, any size

£5,308

£104.41

8 windows, any size

£3,679

£72.37

4 windows, any size

£1,995

£39.24

Package price:

60 monthly payments of:

12 windows, any size

£4,772

£93.87

8 windows, any size

£3,395

£66.78

4 windows, any size

£1,850

£36.39

SILvER

the package of ‘C’ rated energy efficient windows

Composite Doors

£599

from

£649

including fitting and VAT

Package price:

PVCu Back Doors only

only

PVCu Front Doors

GOLd

the package of ‘A’ rated energy efficient windows

including fitting and VAT

MRRP £715 You save £116 Reinforced panel and 6 point locking

including fitting and VAT

MRRP £1320 You save £470 Complete with letterbox and yale locks

Any white back door with white handles

Have you thought about adding an extra room with a conservatory?

£850

French & Patio Doors

from

Count your windows, calculate the cost. Simple...

£849

including fitting and VAT

MRRP £1100 You save £251 Up to 1900mm wide, ultra high security Side panels extra*

SPECIAL OFFER

Buy a front and back door together

only

£1150

MRRP £1595 You save £445

including fitting and VAT

FInAnCE AvAILAbLE On ALL ORdERS OvER £1000

Prices start at just

£7995

Amount of Finance £2000 £3000 £5000 £9000

including all base works, electrics, heating, installation and VAT

36 Months £61.50 £92.25 £153.75 £276.25

60 Months £39.34 £59.01 £98.35 £177.03

Terms and conditions apply, please ask for written details. Typical example: Cash price: £3000. No deposit required. 36 monthly payments of £92.25. Total charge for credit £321.00. Total amount payable £3321.00

Call us 24 hours a day for an honest, personal service on INCORPORATING

01793 522977 or visit www.g2sgroup.co.uk Window Systems Profile Accreditations

Prices shown are for white finish windows and include full installation and VAT. If you require special finishes or colours please ask for details. Each section of a bay window counts as one window. Terms and conditions apply, please ask for written details. Finance example for 8 ‘A’ rated energy efficient windows: Cash price £3679. Pay £72.37 for 60 months. Charge for credit £663.20. Total amount payable £4342.20 at 6.9% APR. Images used for illustration purposes only. *Side panels for French and Patio doors cost £190.00 extra per panel.

Affordable prices for windows, doors and conservatories from a company with over 100 years trading across the group

21-52 March 10.indd 47

18/02/2010 17:06

Slip down to Link Centre and give it a go!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Disco Sessions Kids/Family Sessions Skating Courses Beginner Sessions Ice Dance Instruction Ice Hockey Teams Figure Skating Club Skate Hire

r o f n u f Great family! all the Call 01793 445566 www.swindon.gov.uk/iceskating

Whitehill Way,Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL

21-52 September 09.indd 56

20/8/09 12:33:36