May 2011 Swindon Link

Festival to remember famous Purton old boy who became Astronomer Royal - see page 21

Take the challenge at the Swindon Festival of Literature 2nd to 14th May. See page 21

No. 348 May 2011 • Circulation 27,000

on paper, online - the positive newsforce in Swindon

Swindon Festival of Walking

Paint an Angel Take part in our art competition and help an orphanage in Nepal See page 19

7 to 22 May Details on page 28 Children at Shaw Ridge Primary School are ready for the festival and Walk to School Week after launching a 5 minute Walk Zone with a funny socks day

Bringing new forms of fitness to Swindon Mark Bennett, OBE, lives in Redhouse yet few people know about his talents. Read about how Mark coaches the coaches to get the best out of competitors on page 2

Be part of The Mix on page 15

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Swindon can be put on the sports map with help from top coach One of Britain’s top sports performance coaches lives in Swindon, an MBE no less, yet hardly anybody here knows about him - until now. The reason is that Mark Bennett, who invented Performance Development Systems (PDS), is very much a behind the scenes person, working with coaches and trainers in different sports to bring out the best in their players. This means he travels all over the country to centres of excellence such as the National Golf Centre in Woodhall Spa where England PGA golf coaches take the PDS course. In the Autumn, he worked with England rugby coaches to turn a loss against New Zealand into a record win against Australia. “I’ve always been passionate about bringing the best out of individuals and teams,” said Mark, who was one of the senior physical training instructors in the Army and ran the ultra-tough Commando Training Wing in Plymouth. “We were extremely good at training the really motivated people, but it became clear to me that the training methods were not suited to the soldiers who started to struggle and didn’t have the mental toughness or skills to withstand the pressures they were under.”

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known since their In the early days as Army physi1990s Mark started cal instructors. to research and Mark’s skills are develop new ways now focussed on of increasing the Swindon by teammotivation, confiing up with Mandence and physijit Singh Dol from cal robustness of Oakhurst, who soldiers. He turned opened the Absodown promotion lutely Fit Appearand the opportuance & Performance nity of a commisStudio in Kembrey sion to leave the Park in March. Army and pursue He said, “we got his desire to maxitalking about physimise performance cal fitness, body across different appearance and sports and in other performance about fields. In 2006 Mark two years ago and had the honour of it seemed the next being awarded the MBE for the results Mark working with Manjit, using a unique 3D trainer designed by Mark where step was to work the user is attached by cables to three stacks of weights to train specific areas with a select group of his systems. and to rehabilitate injured muscles. of high quality per“PDS empowers individuals and teams to take their own health, appearance and sonal trainers to become PDS qualified coaches offering a higher level responsibility for their training performance for life. and performance, it instils confi“At the elite level, it’s the finest of training to all abilities. “As well as continuing to visit dence in their ability to gain the of judgements on the playing field knowledge and skills to do better which determine success or failure, sites all over the country, top by making the right choices under so a coach has to have the soft coaches are now coming to work varied pressures,” said Mark. skills to ensure his or her players with me in Swindon. I’m also in“The key difference is, instead of can make the right choices in both terested in passing on many of the skills and techniques I have learnt teaching people what to do, the training and competition.” focus is on them learning what to At a personal level Mark works to local sports teams and schools.” Read the full interview with Mark do in given circumstances, so that closely with Olympic champion the performer takes ownership of Dame Kelly Holmes who he has at www.swindonlink.com

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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Headteacher Rhian Cockwell, above, said she wanted children to have the sense of community she experienced at the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1976. “I vividly remember the street party when I was at primary school at Caerleon in South Wales and the fact that the headteacher made a huge impression by walking the streets to visit every party. “Nowadays, with the changes in our society and all the limitations placed on organising public events, our children won’t have that shared memory, so we decided to throw ourselves into having a traditional event in a street setting.”

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Deputy headteacher Kate Rowe, in charge of party preparations, said, “all 380 children will be sitting down at tables in the car park to enjoy the tea. They’ll be helping to create table decorations and their own costumes before the day and will take part in games before tea. The mayor of Swindon will be joining us as well.” • To help reception and foundation stage children understand the big day, over 100 children walked up to St Mary’s Church, Lydiard Park on 5 April to take part in a ‘wedding ceremony’ involving Cinderella and Prince Charming. See the pictures at http://bit.ly/slink11

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

MP sees the value of volunteers

Member of Parliament for Swindon South stripped off his suit and donned working clothes before Easter to promote volunteering in Swindon. Over two days he helped wash up dishes, serve lunch, sort out items in a charity shop and joined volunteers from Intel and Motorola helping to decorate Swindon Scrapstore. “I was keen to get involved and do something practical like other volunteers,” said Robert. “The town has a huge depth and quality in its voluntary organisations and the people who make them a success. I would encourage anybody not involved to find out more.” To find out about volunteering www.involveswindon.co.uk opportunities, contact Volunteer www.swindonvolunteers.org.uk Centre Swindon on 420557

West Swindon Forum next meets 14 May

Swindon’s Core Planning Strategy, police priorities in the area, an update on youth services and a report on the third phase of Shaw Forest are all on the agenda for the meeting of the forum on Monday 14 May, 7pm, in the library at Link Centre. South Swindon MP Robert Buckland will also be attending to talk about the tactics needed to persuade Wiltshire Council to turn down the planning application for 800 houses at Ridgeway Farm. The forum gives residents the chance to discuss community issues with the eight Swindon councillors representing the area. A report of the last meeting can be found at http://bit.ly/swindonconnect

Residents needed to walk the streets of the West to promote local solutions

Street Watch, a new scheme to get people in West Swindon looking out for each other, has been launched by the Swindon Community Safety Partnership in response to fear of crime, anti-social behaviour and a desire to encourage communities to become stronger within themselves. the people living there. The It involves pairs or small Safety Partnership and groups of residents walking Wiltshire Police are cooraround their own area and Ridgeway Farm plan needs more work dinating a number of pilot engaging people in converprojects to see how they sation, with a particular focus to protect the environment benefit our local communiAn application by Taylor Wimpey homes to Wiltshire Council to build on young people. ties with a view to extending them The emphasis is on building rela800 houses north of Peatmoor needs to pay greater attention to the tionships within the community so to more areas. environment and wildlife according to county ecologist Jon Taylor. “Street Watch can provide comHe reports that the site has seen extensive ecological survey work over that views can be understood and the last 10 years, which has identified grassland habitat of botanical and common standards set through munities with a real opportunity to mycological interest, and populations of bats, reptiles, breeding birds, visibility, education, information, develop local solutions to local isbadgers and invertebrates. Adjacent habitats, within 100m, include two positive engagement, advice and sues, giving people greater control over resolutions. County Wildlife Sites, the River Ray corridor and a railway embankment. reassurance. To find out more about launching Richard Palusinski, head of ComThe report says a secure Environmental Management Plan would be Street Watch in your neighbourmunity Safety at Swindon Council, required in any planning decision to reduce the impact on otters, bats, said, “Street Watch is a great way hood, call Richard on 466506 or reptiles and birdlife currently populating the site. to get to know your local area and mail: CSPamin@swindon.gov.uk The report can be read at bit.ly/gXbPeP

Week of Action for cleaner, safer community Staff from a range of agencies will be out in force across West Swindon from 9 to 14 May, giving safety advice, tidying up litter, removing graffiti and stamping bicycles with postcodes. Taking part will be Swindon Council departments including housing, community safety, trading standards, highways, neighbourhood wardens, children’s services, and other organisations like the police, Swindon Commercial Services, and HM Court Service. Look out for the Community Safety bus at Toothill and Freshbrook Village Centres, and the West Swindon Centre. On Friday 14 May, 10am and 1pm, there will be a bike security stamping session at the West Police Point, opposite Link Centre. For details call Jayne Dudley on 466506.

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

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

Editorial copy for June by 6 May Published: 28 May Copy for July by 3 June Swindon Link

advertising Enquiries Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for June advertisements: 9 May /swindonlink

“The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.” The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Swindon Publications Ltd. cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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Festival to collect ideas on how to spend £1 million

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Children at Toothill Primary School, pictured with Big Lottery regional officers Olivia Gore and Lyndsey Peal, have been contributing their ideas about how Toothill and the school could benefit from the lottery award

A steering committee made up of members of community groups have been working together with Toothill Primary School to organise a joint event which will see all the traditional fete activities take place. On the day there will be stalls, games, facepainting, bouncy castle and trampoline, penalty shoot out, competitions, demonstrations, dog training, police car and fire engine, and refreshments. There will also be a special prize draw for a £100 supermarket voucher and a meal for 6 at the DeVere Village Italian restaurant offered to people who contribute ideas on how the Big Lottery £1 million award could be spent. Ruth Kiddle of the organising group said, “later this year the grant-making body appointed by the Big Lottery will begin to assess ideas from the community but we wanted to make a headstart on ensuring people are aware of this

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amazing opportunity for our area, finding out what people would like to see developed, and have some fun at the same time.”

Not £1m in a day! Steering group chair Tina Mackie wants to make it clear that reports in the Swindon Advertiser that the festival is costing £1 million to put on were totally incorrect. She said, “it really is disappointing that they give out the wrong information, despite reporting the project for the last six months. “The idea that we’re going to spend £1 million in a single day is ridiculous but we’ve still had unhelpful comments which makes the efforts of the volunteers coordinating the project harder.” She added that any resident can contribute ideas that will benefit Toothill via Pam Pixton on 466502. See also the new web site at: www.mytoothill.org.uk

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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Forward plans for Swindon on show in late April and May

Swindon Council is consulting on its revised Core Strategy, the planning ‘blueprint’ for the future development of the town, until 19 May. Following the scrapping of the on average, and this demand is previous government’s housing unlikely to reduce. The Core Strategy can be read at targets, the council’s revised outline plans reduce the number of homes www.swindon.gov.uk/corestratto be built in Swindon between egy. Residents can see the plans 2006 and 2026 by 9,000, taking the and speak to planning officers face to face on: number from 34,200 to 25,200. Once homes already built since 26 April, 2pm - 5pm: North Swindon Library 2006 are taken into account, it means 28 April, 10am - 5pm: Wroughton Library that up to 19,000 new homes could 3 May, 10am - 2pm: Parks Library be built by 2026. The new strategy scales-back 5 to 7 May, 9.30am - 5.30pm: Brunel development potential to the east Shopping Centre of the A419 - the Eastern Develop- 10 May, 10am - 2pm: Highworth Library ment Area - replacing proposals for 12,000 homes with a small number 17 May, 10am - 2pm:West Swindon Library of separate and distinct neighbour- Additionally, planning officers will attend the West Swindon Forum hoods totalling 7,500 houses. Other strategic development sites meeting on Monday 9 May, 7pm at included in the plan are Common- West Swindon Library. head, next to Coate Water Park and Tadpole Farm, north of Oakhurst and Redhouse. Coun Peter Greenhalgh, the council’s cabinet member for Karen Storey from Westlea, and no Sustainability, Strategic Planning, doubt many other people living Property and Transport, said the in the area have become used to plan’s aim is to build houses to meet the green space at Delta Business the actual economic demand for Park, off Great Western Way, and them, rather than to meet arbitrary will have been taken aback by the targets set at a regional level. “The stripping of the site in February for Core Strategy gives the council a development as a car showroom. weapon against uncontrolled de“Having lived in Westlea for the velopment. If we have a credible, last 18 years I was amazed and legally watertight plan for future dismayed to find that all the green housebuilding, we have a very area in front of the Campanile Hotel good chance of fighting off applica- at Delta was gone. Do we really tions and appeals for areas where need more industrial units in West development would be completely Swindon? Half of those already unacceptable. standing are empty. “But this does mean we have to “I’ve never seen anything pubidentify areas for building. The East- lished about the changing of this ern Development, Commonhead area and had I done so I would and Tadpole Farm are all attracting have made some sort of protest. a lot of concern, but the borough is Our green areas amongst living not large and our options are very spaces are important to our well limited.” being and wildlife.” He added that Swindon’s ecoA council spokesman said denomic growth over the past 30 velopment of Delta Business Park years has meant 1,200 new homes had been part of the West Swindon being built in the town each year master plan since the early 1980s.

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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All agreed. No infrastructure, no 1,700 houses at Tadpole Farm unless developer delivers plans to satisfy Swindon Council and residents

With BBC Wiltshire’s morning presenter Graham Mack holding the ring Swindon Council leader Rod Bluh, North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson, and Swindon’s director of planning Dave Potter were given a grilling at a public meeting organised by Oakhurst Residents’ Association on 6 April, reports Juliet Platt. Also facing the audience were Abbey Meads ward councillors Vera Tomlinson, Peter Stoddart, Peter Heaton-Jones, and ward Labour candidate Mark Viner. When asked directly by Graham Mack, none of the panel raised their hands in support of the Tadpole Farm development north of Oakhurst and Redhouse. Nevertheless the site has been earmarked for expansion in Swindon’s draft forward planning Core Strategy since 2007. It would fulfil 9 per cent of the perceived need for extra houses in the town up to 2026. Coun Bluh emphasised that the uncertainty of the economic climate means that development decisions are difficult to make. “It’s really important that as councillors we tell you the truth. We keep hearing that there is a shortage of houses, so we need a strategy to cope with

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Listening to community views, from left, Ian Birch, chair of Oakhurst Residents’ Association, North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson, ORA secretary, Stephanie Exell, Swindon Council leader Rod Bluh, meeting chair Graham Mack

that pent up demand. We’ve got to remember that 1,700 houses are not going to appear overnight. These developments can take ten to fifteen years to come through and are constantly subject to market forces.” The majority of concerns voiced by the public at the meeting were about infrastructure issues, including traffic, school places, health provision and the risk of flooding. Dave Potter, director of planning and transport, said, “unfortunately the fact that new developments will cause more traffic congestion and queuing at junctions does not constitute grounds for refusing applications. Tests would need to be carried out instead on the level of nuisance, inconvenience and safety

caused by the proposals. “To a large extent we are bound by what is laid out in the Core Strategy of 2008, and if we refuse to cooperate with developers then the proposals will go to appeal and we will lose the opportunity to have any influence.” Justin Tomlinson MP said “the existing road network in the northern sector is struggling with 10,000 houses. It’s clear that we need concrete plans for additional infrastructure before I can be in favour of more housing. The recent consultations have been developer driven and need to be taken with an extremely large pinch of salt. We need an independent and robust consultation before decisions can be made.”

Oakhurst resident Steve Austen said flooding could be a major problem with further development because existing watercourses are poorly maintained and don’t have capacity for water run off from Tadpole Farm. Chair of Haydon Wick Parish Council Richard Hailstone called for the promised extension of Thamesdown Drive to Barnfield Road to be built before more housing is agreed. Coun Steve Wakefield, representing Toothill & Westlea in West Swindon, echoed the call for a new access road. “The congestion on Mead Way caused by the growth of traffic from North Swindon is a disaster.” Redhouse resident Steve Tovey, expressed concern about the impact of more housing across the border in Wiltshire, at Ridgeway Farm (800) and Pry Farm (2,000). Steph Exell, secretary of Oakhurst Residents Association, said, “we were very pleased to see so many concerned people at the meeting, but this is merely our opening salvo. It’s all very well to say you’re against something, you have to deliver on promises.” http://bit.ly.oakhurst Full story at http://bit.ly/slink7

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Lydiard Park will be damaged if planning appeal succeeds say residents

O NO PE W N!

Swindon Council went into battle with developers to defend the rural setting of Lydiard Park against unnecessary and unwanted housing at a four day planning enquiry in mid-April. In the Autumn residents of not have a five year supply of land that there is building up to the park boundary when in fact Grange Park effectively lobbied as required by legislation. Now planning inspector Geoffrey Greendown School is set well the council against a proposal by Primegate Properties on behalf of Hill, on behalf of the Secretary of back on a plateau and the existBovis Homes to build 175 houses State, is considering the arguments ing housing of Hampton Drive off Hook Street, overlooking the put to him including points put by is largely hidden from the park the Lydiard Field Action Group and by a wall. Our concern is that southern end of Lydiard Park. The council’s planning commit- indicated that he would deliver his over half of the Hook Street site slopes down to the park and tee rejected the application as the judgement by the end of April. Grange Park resident Andy overlooks the memorial garden site was outside Swindon’s defined urban boundary and the housing Drinkwater told the enquiry that in the arboretum at the western would be an intrusion upon the park the site off Hook Street is par- end of the park; it would be a Residents protesting about housing on the edge of Lydiard Park last summer setting, but the developers appealed ticularly sensitive because of the considerable visual intrusion.” South Swindon MP Robert Buck- not for the better.” on the grounds that Swindon does geography. “It has been argued David Barnard, chair of the Lydland spoke in support of residents and also to express his concern for iard Field Action Group said Swinthe whole town. “Lydiard Park is don Council’s case centred around an important venue for residents in two key issues, the rural setting of the borough and beyond, this has Lydiard Park and the council’s right wider ramifications for the local to determine planning policy on community. If these plans are to be the basis of its new planning core permitted, the character of Hook strategy. “The council’s barrister Street would change dramatically, Anthony Creen was outstanding it would no longer be a rural lane and gave us confidence that our and the entrance to Lydiard Park ‘united’ opposition to development would dramatically change, and off Hook Street had merit.”

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Swindon political boundaries to change Radical reorganisation has been proposed for electoral boundaries across Swindon by the independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE). In West Swindon, Lydiard & FreshA 12 week public consultation brook ward will cover Freshbrook, takes place until 20 June. The draft recommendations pro- Grange Park and areas of Toothill pose that Swindon Borough Council west of Idovers Drive. Shaw ward should have 57 councillors – two will take in north of Shaw Ridge and fewer than at present.This means 19 also Eastleaze and half of Westlea. The existing Toothill ward will wards with three councillors each. In North Swindon, Abbey Meads be wiped out to be replaced by a ward will disappear to be replaced revised Western ward, taking in by a new ward called Priory Vale Toothill east of Idovers Drive, part covering areas north of Westfield of Westlea, and joined with Even Way, including Taw Hill and west Swindon - separated by Mannington Recreation Ground and all the of Oakhurst Way. To the north the new St Andrews commercial areas on either side of ward will take in roads north of Great Western Way. See the full report with maps Thamesdown Drive and east of Oakhurst Way. Parts of the current illustrating the ward boundaries, Blunsdon ward are included and the at www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/ green fields where 1,700 homes at south-west/wiltshire/swindon-electoral-review Tadpole Farm are proposed.

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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6 May masked ball for Tami

Four friends have come together to put on a masked ball in May to help Tami Brown raise more money for a new cancer treatment. Tami, 27, from Abbey Meads, has staved off cancer for over seven years but has been told that the NHS can do no more. Unwilling to give up hope, in April, she received a course of high-dose Diana Shepherdson, Katie Henderson, Tami, Martyn Elbrow, Vitamin C therapy Samantha Cottrell. Photo: Kris Talikowski taken intraveneously costing £5,000 Craig Knights. The venue, DJs and and further treatments to sustain other businesses are providing their support without charge. the effect are needed. Tickets on the door are a miniThe ball at Liquid & Envy nightclub on 6 May takes place from 9pm mum donation of £5 to Tami’s fund. Donate to Tami’s treatment at to 2.30am features music from DJ Kelz Clarkson, Fireboy DJ, and DJ www.tamiswish.org

Caribbean jaunt, thanks to Jamie

A mum from Taw Hill is jetting off to St Lucia in May, after becoming one of Jamie at Home’s top sales persons. Michelle Hawkins, 30, has been a consultant for only a year, promoting Jamie Oliver’s designer homeware products in people’s houses - and has now achieved team leader status. She was amazed to discover she’d won the luxury Caribbean trip through her sales and recruitment record, along with 100 others from the UK. “I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve met some great people and had lots of fun. As mother to a four year old daughter, this job is an excellent way of earning income a couple of nights a week while the children are in bed. These are hard times but even now people can be really successful holding at-home parties.” To hold a Jamie party, see Michelle’s advert on page 10.

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Children and staff at Westlea Primary School gave a colourful welcome to eighteen teachers from eight European countries, as well as four French pupils, at the end of March. They were serenaded by the whole school singing the Westlea Welcome, a song specially written by music teacher and choir leader Sarah Sumner. Delegates travelled from as far as Greece, Hungary and Turkey, as well as Wales, Ireland and Scotland for the four day visit. Children dressed in national costumes and holding flags of the countries taking part in the exchange Headteacher Suzanne John Marshall, headteacher of the delegates.” Seaton said, “it was part of the Also part of the welcoming party Commenius Education Project Glasheen Boys School in Cork, Irethat brings groups of European land said, “we had a lovely, warm were teachers dressed up as key schools together. Each project lasts welcome from Westlea. Our visit characters in English history including Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth, for two years; this one is new but was given a tremendous start.” Metin Savural from Ismir, Turkey, Florence Nightingale, young Wilit’s the third that Westlea has been involved in. Our partner schools said, “it was amazing to see all the liam Shakespeare, with Mrs Seaton in Ireland, France and Spain in the children outside waiting for us; it as the grand matriarch of the British Empire Queen Victoria. last project came together to draw was a very nice surprise.” The next exchange will see Mrs Seaton added, “we prepared in new schools from across Europe. Our element is fully financed by for the visit for weeks because Westlea teachers travelling to their the British Council and no funding we’re always proud to present our partner school in Turkey on 7 May. See more pictures at http://bit. whatsoever comes from the school wonderful school, its very special pupils and our beautiful country to ly/slink5 budget.”

Helping you make your house a home Beautiful • Oak • Pine • Painted Furniture Plus: Many lovely accessories for your home Open: Mon to Sat 9.30am – 5.30pm Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm Willoby's Furniture Co. 34 Wood Street Old Town Swindon Wiltshire SN1 4AB

Tel: 01793 693696 info@willobysfurniture.co.uk www.willobysfurniture.co.uk

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12 swindonlink.com • May 2011

Win @ www.swindonlink.com Swindon based author Brian Clegg has written a fascinating book entitled In Flight Science - a guide to the world from your airplane window. It’s packed full of fascinating facts about aircraft, airports, flight technology and weather, including experiments to try. Enter our In Flight Science competition at http://bit.ly/slink6 Win two family tickets (4 per ticket) to see a new spectacular production of Joseph at the Wyvern Theatre on Tuesday 24 May, 7.30pm. See details at http://bit.ly/slink8

Landlords!!

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We are an independent family owned and run estate agency offering over 40 years of combined property experience in Wootton Bassett, Purton, Lyneham, Swindon and surrounding villages. • Only 10% pcm for our Full Property Management service. • Competitive one off fee for our Introduction Only service. • Further discounts on multiple properties & recommendations. • Advertising through the web & local publications • No costs until a tenant has been housed • 7 days a week viewings

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01793 855222

Golfers wanted to play for CALM

Players are needed to turn out for the Swindon Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Movement (CALM) annual fundraising golf day at the Wrag Barn course near Highworth on Thursday 23 June. The event is one of the biggest in the charity’s calendar and organisers are hoping up to 30 teams will take part. CALM is totally run by parent volunteers, with virtually every penny raised put towards supporting families in the Swindon area

who have a child diagnosed with a cancer or leukaemia. For details of the day and an entry form contact CALM chairman Richard Crowley on 07929 471855 or mail: richard.crowley@ virginmedia.com www.calmcharity.org

Boost for a business woman offer

Swindon Businesswomen’s Breakfast Club is looking for women interested in applying for its Make It Happen Award which offers £500 towards professional or management qualification, professional career advice with a mentor and a year’s free club membership. The club, established in 1989, is area, need an additional qualificacomprised of business and profes- tion or want to return to work after sional women who meet for break- a career break, the Make it Happen fast or lunch once a month to hear Award could give you the opporstimulating speakers, exchange tunity to excel.” The closing date for application information, share views and creis 27 May. Apply via www.sbbcnetate business. Member Janice Knight said, working.co.uk or call Janice Knight “if you have the potential to forge on 336282 or mail: janiceknight2@ ahead, live or work in the Swindon yahoo.co.uk Advertising Feature

Swindon recruitment consultancy offers positions to trainees

Swindon’s largest IT Recruitment Consultancy Outsource UK has launched a six-month programme to train and develop the recruitment consultants it needs for its continued growth. At the end of the training programme, the trainees will then be able to progress in the business, focusing on specific IT market sectors. They will also have the option to take a professional recruitment qualification through the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), the industry’s governing body. Anna Stretch Outsource UK’s Recruitment and Training Manager said, “we are initially aiming to take on six graduates, or graduate calibre individuals with relevant work experience, who will be trained in all aspects of candidate management. “The role will then progress into working with a number of clients, servicing their recruitment needs by sourcing relevant and quality IT candidates, managing the recruitment process from interview to offer stage. We are offering a competitive benefits package which includes a good salary, uncapped commission, pension and healthcare. “By taking on and training our own people we can ensure they are of the The Outsource team, highest quality and maintain the high marking 20 years of success standards we have set.” Outsource UK, which recently cel- Wiltshire Business awards - Innovation ebrated its 20th anniversary, has a string and Growth, Customer/Staff Care and of accolades to its name. It holds the Outstanding Excellence. The company is one of the top 100 REC audited status and is accredited by APSCo - the Association of Profes- largest Swindon companies. See the advert on the left for details sional Staffing Companies. It is also a finalist in three categories of this year’s about applying for the positions.

15/04/2011 10:22

swindonlink.com • May 2011

13

Swindon CAB and Macmillan work in partnership

When somebody is diagnosed with cancer, money may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but financial worries can quickly become apparent. To provide specialist advice Macmillan Cancer Support and the Swindon Citizens Advice Bureau are working together to provide advice on what benefits and tax credits are available and how to apply for them, how to claim for housing and fuel cost assistance and health related costs such as travel to hospital for treatment. They also advise on other problems such as debt, employment or housing. To make an appointment call the CAB on 496154 or mail: macmillan. swindoncab@cabnet.org.uk or drop into the office at 1 Faringdon Road, Swindon, open from Monday to Friday: 9.15am - 1pm.

Celebrating Swindon’s special people

The third Mayor’s Pride of Swindon awards on 7 April recognised the unsung heroes of the town when 46 individuals and 12 groups were presented with certificates in recognition of their commitment to a wide range of community organisations and to individuals across the town. Seventeen people and three groups were selected for their outstanding effort and received the Pride of Swindon lapel badge, bearing the image of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The mayor, Rex Barnett, unable to attend as he was convalescing after an operation, sent a message of support saying, “It is people like you who make Swindon such a great community to live in and people like you who make me very proud to be mayor.” Badge winner Bridlewood Primary School teaching assistant Alison Dowdell, was nominated by headteacher Jo Garton and mum Emma Wilder for her remarkable one-to-one support in school and after school to Emma’s autistic son Dylan Carter

Polly Bishop, Wiltshire fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Support, nominated Tami Brown from Abbey Meads for her inspiration whilst coping with terminal cancer. Tami is currently trying high dose vitamin C therapy to lengthen her life after a big fundraising effort

utcomes Improving O

for Disabled

Children

Home & Away is our family-based scheme designed to support parents of children with disabilities by providing children with the opportunity to enjoy different experiences and develop new friendships. For more information please contact Swindon’s Family Placement Team on 01793 465700 or visit the website at: www.swindon.gov.uk/homeandaway

Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week

New 2011 Collection Huge range Over 250 fabrics Cane, Rattan Hardwood combinations Free local delivery The volunteer team at the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Therapy won one of the three Brunel badges awarded to groups for their huge effort to establish the new home for the therapy centre in 2010. Pictured with South Swindon MP Robert Buckland, David Wray, Reg Puffett, Andrew Collier, Andrew Seddon, centre manager Jackie Wray

www.conservatorycentres.co.uk

FREE Box on your first order

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14 swindonlink.com • May 2011

Taking Millbrook to the next stage Freshbrook’s Millbrook Primary School’s new headteacher has settled in and Joy Aldred went to meet her.

Totally Divine

Nails • Tanning • Lashes 78 Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Dr, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7EX

Sarah is delighted to welcome Emma as a full time Nail and Lash Technician Appointments available. See Facebook for special offers

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Karen Pyman’s ambition for Millbrook is to inspire her pupils to ‘go onto great things - to believe they can do anything they want to do.’ As a 42 year old mum of two, she explained that becoming a teacher was the result of the inspiration she received at school. “I don’t come from an academic family, my parents were a barmaid and a postman. But I was inspired by my teachers to be the best I could be and believe it’s because of that outlook that I’m a headteacher today.” Previously a head in a small rural village school, she was looking for a new challenge when the Millbrook position was advertised. “There is a great school community here and Millbrook occupies such an important position in the wider community. I hope to bring fresh ideas, a period of stability and a climate of inclusiveness to the school. “With our new Caterpillars pre-

school which was recently judged outstanding, we now offer education from aged 3 to 11, providing continuity through all the early years. We have fantastic facilities, space and equipment and are currently looking into running holiday clubs for West Swindon children.” To parents she says, “I would like people to know that my door is always open. This is such an exciting time for the children at Millbrook and everybody involved with the school.”

The Bright Smile Studio Swindon’s Laser Teeth Whitening Specialists. Now that’s something to smile about! Call now, while appointments last. Professional. Experienced. Qualified. Insured. Established 2009

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Swapping is the in-thing for Swindon fashionistas Thursday 28 April, 7pm for 8pm. Swindon’s Swap Shop, Spot Bar, Old Town. Invest in a new wardrobe by exchanging pre-loved garments. Tickets are £5 with money raised going to Threshold, Swindon’s homeless charity (£6 on the door). Call Kirsty McNally on 524661 or mail: kirsty.mcnally@thl.org.uk Friday 6 May, 7.30pm. The Swindon Swishing Fashion Exchange, Uplands School, Tadpole Lane. Bring along between two and five items of clothing in good condition and swap them for something you will love. Browse the rails before the grand swap starts. Also stalls from Ann Summers, Jamie at Home, Vie, All About Cupcakes, as well as therapists offering mini-treatments. The first fifty ladies to purchase tickets, or arrive at the event will receive a goodie bag. Free glass of wine on entry. Tickets are £6 in cash on the door or £5 in advance. See details at www.swindonswishing.co.uk or search Swindon Swishing on Facebook or @SwindonSwishing on Twitter.

Up to 100 children, former members and staff at the Abbey Meads Sunshine After School Club took part in a tenth birthday celebration in February. Joint organiser Lynette White said, “everybody dressed up to enjoy a Mad Hatters’ tea party and it was great to meet some of our first members who are now in their late teens. We had photographs from the past on display and there was a lot of sharing of stories.”

where an early start makes a world of difference!

For all ages and abilities from Primary (aged 5) to GCSE and A Level. Tutoring tailored to meet individual needs with no lengthy contracts. All tutors qualified to degree level. Tuition available in the comfort of your own home or at the homes of tutors Contact Andrea on 07887561762 or Helen on 07952177675 firstclasstuitionenquiries@gmail.com www.firstclasstuition.co.uk

Sunshine Club worker Christine Dungey with three members

Be part of the Mix in the West

Shaw Village Centre comes alive on Saturday 21 May with drumming, songwriting, arts and craft workshops, plus live music performances, café tent with charity stalls, under 5’s messy space, facepainting, icecreams, sumo suits, bungee run, stalls and outdoor games.

1-20 May 11.indd 15

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

preschool gymnastics

A family run business offering One to One private tuition in English, Maths and Science.

Mad Hatters gather to review the past

This will be the third Mix Festival sponsored by the churches of West Swindon and the Lydiards, with further funding this year coming from the Greenbelt Festival, Cheltenham. The programme is even more packed with field events from 2pm to 5.30pm, and also hip-hop dance, singing and puppetry workshop inside Holy Trinity Church. New for 2011 is ‘Golden Oldies’ which is particularly aimed at older people to enjoy singing along to classics from the 60s to 80s. A festival showcase with music

The Blackthorn School of Photography

15

put together through the afternoon takes place in the church from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. The evening slot is filled by two live bands, L.E.D. and Brought into Being, finishing at 9pm. “It’s going to be a great day out for the whole community, with something for everyone to enjoy and to try out new skills,” said festival coordinator Claire Camm. Entry to the whole festival, including the evening events, is only £1, with under 5’s free. Tickets to the evening event only are £2. See the advert on the right.

daily classes for the under 5’s

01793 822262

www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk

emerge Youth Project presents

Mix Community Festival

Free workshops in dance, singing, drumming, song-writing, art, crafts, puppetry, plus kids’ messy space, inflatables, ice creams, beauty bar, stalls. Performance cafe and live bands in the evening - Dominic French, L.E.D, Brought into Being Contact Festival Coordinator Claire Camm on 01793 874221 for more details

Saturday 21st May, 2pm-9pm Shaw Village Centre Entrance £1 - under 5s free

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15/04/2011 09:12

16 swindonlink.com • May 2011

Tour of the universe at Uplands

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Every child can shine

Swindon College

Improve your English and Maths at Swindon College

Eighteen months of hard work came together at the end of March when 70 pupils aged 11 to 19 at Uplands Special School put on three performances of their own show Intergalactic Goblin for family and friends. The plot devised by drama teacher Phil Joyner was based on a story he wrote fifteen years ago about two goblins, Grot and his girlfriend Snot, travelling around the universe making mischief. Pupils came up with the places they went to, like a chocolate planet and a hairspray comet, and developed their characters over many months. Diminutive headteacher Jackie Smith was transformed into a Jack Russell and came on as a scheming professor ’s four legged friend. Phil said, “in the end the rogue goblins discover the error of their ways by understanding they’re part of everything, and if they harm someone or something, they’re really harming themselves.”

Summer 2011

part-time courses at Cirencester College Art & Crafts

Join a small, friendly, day or evening class at Swindon College and you will be able to: • Update your skills • Learn how to budget • Gain qualifications (from Entry Level to Level 2 GCSE ‘C’) • Gain confidence • Improve your spelling • Help your children or grandchildren with their homework

History of Art Cookery

Digital Cameras

Introduction to Computing Computing for Business

ILEX (Institute of Legal Executives)

Accounting (including Sage & AAT) Introduction to Business Studies Holistic Therapy Golf

All classes are FREE of charge - join in September 2011 For more information please call 0800 731 2250 or visit: www.swindon-college.ac.uk or email studentservices@swindon-college.ac.uk

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Bradon Forest works with Japanese families to help earthquake survivors

17

Rendcomb College & Junior School

Bradon Forest School staff and pupils have worked hard to support fellow Japanese pupils since the terrible earthquake and tsunami in the northern part of their country.

A co-educational boarding & day school for 3-18 year olds

Would your child benefit from the exceptional Rendcomb educational experience? To find out more, come along to our

Open Morning Friday 6th May 9am – 12noon

Bradon Forest mums Mrs Taniguchi, Mrs Yaoi and Mrs Takahashi with Japanese pupils

The school has a long association with Japanese families who have come to Swindon to work with Honda and other companies in the area. Japanese support teacher Simon Taylor worked with pastoral staff in keeping close contact with the families and Honda to ensure that young people received appropriate help. On Friday 1 April a group of Japanese mothers with pupils at school organised a lunch time sale of sushi, Japanese sweets and small

gifts to raise money for the tsunami appeal. Other tutor groups held a cake stall, the art department ran a lunchtime origami workshop and year 10 organised a sponsored bike ride. The fundraising total was £800. Headteacher Len Spiers said, “the Bradon Forest community demonstrated its usual compassion with the impressive turnout and support for this important appeal. “We were delighted that the organisers were able to raise so much from a lunchtime event.”

Giving our pupils the best preparation for the rest of their lives • Excellent academic results 99% A Level pass rate in 2009 • A family environment which cares for the needs of the individual • Means tested bursaries and scholarships

Means tested bursaries and scholarships available at all levels of entry Tel: 01285 832306 / Email: info@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk Web: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

enjoy

grow perform

Pre Prep now open. Welcoming boys and girls aged 3-13 years. Visits welcome at any time. OPEN DOOR DAY Pre-Prep & Prep School Friday 20th May 2011 - 9.30am - 3.30pm See Prior Park Prep in action on a normal school day.

T: 01793 750 275 E: prep@priorpark.co.uk www.thepriorfoundation.com 3-13 IAPS Boarding & Day Established Co-educational Catholic Preparatory School

1-20 May 11.indd 17

develop Open Morning Thursday 19th May 2011 9am – 12.30pm To register please telephone the Registrar on 01793 782205

www.pinewoodschool.co.uk

From September 2011 new school minibus pick up from South Cerney (A419)

Day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-13 Pinewood Bourton Shrivenham Wiltshire SN6 8HZ T: 01793 782205 (Office) E: office@pinewoodschool.co.uk

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18 swindonlink.com • May 2011

Dads get together in North

Butterflies Children’s Centre hosts a weekly Dads & Kids Lunch and Playgroup where fathers and male carers can enjoy playing with their children. Other projects are planned like The group is run by dads and more members are welcome. football training, starting a vegetaApart from using equipment and ble garden and a summer barbeque. The group meets on Mondays, craft materials provided by the children’s centre, lunch is prepared 12.15pm to 2pm at Butterflies and shared, with dads and children Children’s Centre next to Catherine trying their hand at making soup, Wayte School, Abbey Meads. For details call 722984. bread, pizza and cakes.

Specially for toddlers on the farm

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 ●

● ● ● ●

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

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 & gardens Easy access and safe parking For information call: 01793 851495

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

Roves Farm Visitor Centre has started Toddler Time every weekday from 10.45am to 1pm during term time offering interactive activities including bubbles, salt dough, story time, nature walks and action rhymes. Roves Farm also has lambs to bottle feed along with plenty of chicks, guinea pigs and rabbits in the pets corner for visitors to hold and stroke. Refreshment is available in the Granary Tearoom, which serves a selection of hot and cold light lunches and drinks, delicious homemade cakes and a selection of gluten and dairy free choices. A microwave and baby changing facilities are available to visitors. Call 763939 for details or see www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Market for children’s kit comes to Swindon Baby & Children’s Market is spreading from Berkshire and holding its first Swindon event on 14 May, 10am to 12pm, at Nova Hreod School, Akers Way. For details and to find out about booking a stall call Naomi Upton on 07725 722540. www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

All aboard for a great party Amy and Paul Studholme have launched their mobile children’s party business in the Jungle Boogie Bus at the Brewers’ Arms in Wanborough, or they’ll drive it to you. “When you’ve got young chil- has produced a CD of original songs dren, going to a party can be a bit that children can take away, having awkward,” said Amy. “You often see had a go at jamming the tunes in the parents just standing around at the top-deck Jungle Beat Café. sides of the usual party venues, and “We’re members of the National there might be more than one party Playbus Association and are keen happening at the same time. to hire out the bus for private par“We wanted to give mums and ties and fund-raising events,” said dads some time in a relaxing en- Paul. “We can bring the bus to you vironment, while their children are as long as there is enough space. properly supervised in an exclusive Alternatively we’re available to do facility by a CRB-checked facilitator,” pop-up parties without the bus.” said Paul, who brings years of expeWin a party rience in the pub and entertainment Find out how you can win a Jungle industry to this new venture. Boogie Party at www.junglebooMusician and performer Amy, who giepartybus.co.uk or call Amy on sings with the Amy Cullum Band, 07747 614811 to book a party. Amy and Paul and their son Jake

• The Ultimate Children’s Party Venue. • A Double Decker bus filled with soft play fun. • We can drive to you OR you can visit us at The Brewers Arms Wanborough where the bus sits in it’s own jungle garden and has a Giraffe bouncy castle and tented area. • Available for Children’s Parties/Christenings and more.

To see our Gallery or for information please visit: www.jungleboogiepartybus.co.uk or contact Amy on

07747 614811

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Angels are not just for Christmas Enter a competition to paint a picture that could be used on a greeting card to help make life better for orphans in Nepal To celebrate the second birthday of support and fundraising for Angel’s Orphanage in Nepal, Highworth couple Ian and Rosa Matheson are excited to announce a children’s painting competition to help raise awareness and money for the charity. Angel, a former sherpa guide, and his wife, cared for 20 orphans with small and irregular donations. Now their future is more assured with a dedicated UK support charity working for them. “We made our first donation to the orphanage in May 2009, and have sent regular amounts each month ever since,” said Rosa. “It’s important to make sure the good work Angel and his wife are doing can continue.” Apart from money for essentials like food, Ian and Rosa have been to Nepal three times to get the orphanage safely rehoused and to ensure the children start to receive education. Now they’re asking for practical help from children across Swindon. “We’re asking you to enter a picture that can be used on greeting cards to help the charity,” said Rosa. “We’re planning an exhibition of entries at

West Swindon Library in September, and the winning entries will be voted for by the public,” said Rosa. “The overall winner will receive a small silver angel, and the top five entries will be used as card designs.” To take part, children are asked to paint a picture of an Angel on a piece of plain A4 paper, which must

then be mounted on card for exhibiting. Entry to the competition is free, though donations are welcome. Mark the envelope Paint an Angel, and send or drop it to Swindon Link, address on page 4, by 30 August. Winners will be announced in October’s edition. • Meet Rosa at the Toothill Festival on 7 May. See page 5 Left, Rosa Matheson with Angel and some of the children

19

Attention Ladies Ditch Daytime TV and book a ‘me-time’ makeover for just £55 save £88 FREE Style consultation valued at £10 FREE New season Style and Cut valued at £25 FREE Tingling Scalp Massage valued at £10 FREE Hydration Hair Shine Treatment valued at £25 Full head of new season colour foils valued at £55 FREE Luxurious Style Finish valued at £18

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Angel Support Group Birthday Saturday 14 May Post Modern Gallery Theatre Square Sight & Sound exhibition and draw an angel workshop: 10am to 3pm Bring a bottle party: 7.30pm to 10pm. Come and find out more

✂

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

★ Workshops and classes every week for children and adults in our dedicated workshop. ★ Local suppliers of Copic pens, Magnolia Stamps, Sugar Nellie Stamps and Tim Holtz products. ★ Wide range of 12 x 12 cardstock from MME, Bazzill, Crate Paper, Echo Park and many more. ★ Easy online shopping at www.sparkledreams.co.uk for all of our products. ★ Open seven days a week, 10am–5pm, with free parking.

Studley Grange Butterfly World and Craft Village

Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9QT Tel: 01793 852400 www.sparkledreams.co.uk http://sparkle-dreams.blogspot.com

1-20 May 11.indd 19

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

Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £38.00 per day Funded child-care credits available.* Government Early Years funded nursery sessions to the value of £46.87 per week.*

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Quality supplies for all card makers, scrapbookers and paper crafters

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

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SPECIAL OFFER FREE child care worth £50 with this advert*

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14/04/2011 15:30

20 swindonlink.com • May 2011

St Sampson’s Infant School Bath Road Cricklade SN6 6AX

Peatmoor pupils put pressure on for change

Year 4 pupils at Peatmoor Primary School have shown they can make a difference in their community after a geography field trip to their village centre revealed numerous opportunities for improvement.

We are a welcoming, friendly school where everyone enjoys learning.

Open Morning: Tuesday 10th May, 9.30am – 11.30am or just give us a call and come for a visit ‘The school provides an exceptionally caring and supportive environment in which pupils thrive’ Ofsted Dec 2009

Phone: 01793 750996 Fax: 01793 751037 E: admin@st-sampsons-inf.wilts.sch.uk www.stsampsonsinfantschool.org.uk

Youngsters who sent their views to the council, from left, Brendon Curtis, Libby Baker, Maxie Hayter, Georgia Woollard, Peter Watkins at Peatmoor Centre

They identified litter, graffiti, cracked paving slabs and dirty benches and then wrote to Swindon Council chief executive Gavin Jones about the problems. As a result the council’s Streetsmart manager Jackie Moyles and ward councillor Nick Martin visited the school to find out more. “The pupils felt quite empowered that their concerns were listened to,” said Paul Watermeyer, special

projects co-ordinator at Peatmoor. “Jackie made a note of all the issues raised and will be keeping in touch with the children about how they are being addressed. And of course the pupils will be keeping a close eye on progress. “It’s also been a good way of raising awareness about the environment. With Streetsmart we’re organising a litter pick for pupils later this year.”

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.

d e an m Co

Full programme of events throughout the day: * Meet & Feed the Animals- three times a day ! * FREE Tractor & Trailer Rides around the farm * Children’s Themed Snipping, Sticking & Decorating * Animal Racing- at weekends and during school holidays * Indoor Heated Toddlers Soft Play & Sandpit * Activity Barn with Pedal Tractors, Giant Slide & Ball Pond * Big Straw Bale Stack, Bouncy Castle & Outdoor Play Area * Granary Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes! Toddler Time every Weekday During Term Time Teddy Bears Picnic on Fridays during Term Time Children’s Birthday Parties

Open Day

us

!

Friday 27th May

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon, Wilts. SN6 7QG

01793 763939 www.rovesfarm.co.uk OPEN DAILY 10.30-5.00pm

see

• For children aged 6 weeks to 5 years • Open from 7.30am 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

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

• CCTV throughout the nursery

Half Term Special: Scarecrow Week (May 28th to June 5th)

1-20 May 11.indd 20

15/04/2011 10:19

21

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Purton festival to honour 18th Century scientist

An 18th Century naval disaster in which more than 1,400 British sailors perished led to the Longitude Act of 1714, the establishment of the Board of Longitude and a hotly disputed competition chaired by Purton’s most famous son, Nevil Maskelyne, writes Frances Bevan. with moon rocks and meteorites on A reliable method to calculate loan from the Swindon based Scithe position of a ship at sea took ence Technology Facilities Council. over 100 years to find, but when in Dr Richard Dunn, Curator of the 1759 John Harrison came up with History of Navigation at Greenwich his H4 chronometer, accurate to National Maritime Museum will be 39.2 seconds in a trial voyage of 47 presenting a lecture on Maskelyne days, the Board of Longitude was at Bradon Forest School, and Purton strangely reluctant to acknowledge Museum will stage an exhibition of his achievement. As chairman, 18th Century scientific equipment Nevil Maskelyne came in for some from 4 May to 22 September. long lasting criticism in the board’s Find out more about the Masketreatment of Harrison. lyne Memorial event at www.purBut Purton Historical Society tonmuseum.com considers it is about time the For tickets at £4 to the Dunn lecmathematician and astronomer was remembered more for his own position of Astronomer Royal and is ture on Saturday 21 May, 7.30pm, buried at St Mary’s Church, Purton. call David Sweet 770491 or mail: accomplishments. A mobile planetarium and an david.sweet@tiscali.co.uk With the aid of a Heritage Lottery Grant the society has organised a interactive magic planet are among series of events to celebrate the the attractions on offer during the bicentennial year of the death of the celebrations to be held over the Purton lad who rose to the exalted weekend of 21 and 22 May, along

Lit Fest focus on more thought and less fame to get the mind working

The town’s eighteenth festival of literature takes a new tack this year, a sign of its maturity writes Emily Griffin. Festival director Matt Holland says, “the festival embraces the age of eighteen focusing on a ‘get up and go’ attitude, by getting festival goers actively involved in new challenges. At 18 we are given the tools, like the vote, to make a difference and find ourselves; I wanted this idea weaved throughout the festival.” Matt has designed every event to pursue the idea of ‘thinking, challenging, writing and discussing’ with a much greater hands-on approach than previous years. There are fewer mega star names in the programme, although showbiz storm comedian Harry Hill sold out within a week and talks by Martin Bell, pictured, and Simon Scarrow make important contributions. Less famous, but by no means less worthy, this year’s authors, poets and experts have the knowledge and the know-how to inspire

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and encourage Swindon to get thinking and writing for itself. Alison Baverstock will demonstrate this on 12 May when she discusses how to write and get published in her talk: ‘Is there a book in you?’ The festival includes the launch of a new magazine Domestic Cherry, created by women, as editor Mabel Watson describes, whilst ‘scrambling over their children or grasping from the bottom of the washing basket.’ From the start Matt gets us into the festival mood with walking, running and cycling events combined with literature, right through to the finale ‘Think Slam’ which gives people three minutes to inspire - the perfect platform to discover if Swindon has risen to the challenge. Pick up a programme from a Swindon library or call 771080. www.swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk

If you have a business and you are interested in joining the scheme, call Trading Standards

01793 466155

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Paolo and Monica welcome you to their new Family Restaurant & Grill (formerly The Foresters) Common Platt, West Swindon Specialising in locally sourced free range meat, fresh seafood, fresh homemade pastas Daily specials, fine wines, local ales and great Italian coffee

Casa Paolo

Free WiFi • Beer garden Opening times: Lunch - Noon to 2.30pm Thursday to Sunday Dinner - 6pm to 10.30pm daily Closed all day Monday Bar open noon to midnight from June to end of September

Bringing the new taste of Italy to West Swindon

For bookings call 01793 772027 www.casapaolo.co.uk

14/04/2011 15:34

Swindon Wide

22

Family concert to set up a summer of fun

Colleen

Mobile freelance hairdresser Over 20 years experience

Reliable Reasonable rates 01793 873096 Mob: 07913 444076 Tel:

The 2011 Family Bowl Concert on Saturday 21 May promises an even bigger and better line up, guaranteed to provide a family day out to be remembered. S Club 3, right, Five, tor where she eventually finished in Stacey Solomon, Scooch third place and Scooch represented and The Scarletz, this year’s the UK in the Eurovision Song Conline up have clocked up test 2007. At the Bowl, not only will twenty-four top ten UK hits they perform Scooch’s own songs between them. but also numbers from the hit US Headlining the show are show Glee. S Club 3. Back in 1999 S Also performing is new girl group Club shot to fame with their The Scarletz, four fantastic vocalists own BBC TV series Miami with an All Saints/acoustic angle that 7 and had a string of hit surpasses expectations. singles including ‘Bring it all See the advert below for show Back’. ‘S Club Party’, ‘Have and ticket details or book online at You Ever’ and the infectious www.swindontickets.co.uk hit ‘Reach.’ Now original Five first formed in 1997 and enmembers Paul, Bradley and Jo are back together to remind us what the joyed worldwide success and were awarded best pop act at the 2000 S Club party spirit is like. Brit Awards. They first The newly formed West Swindon came to Swindon in 2001 Rotary Club welcomes new memto headline the Wiltshire bers for drinks every Tuesday, Festival in Lydiard Park. 7.15pm for 7.30pm at The BeefTheir hits include ‘Every- eater Inn, Lydiard Fields. body Get Up’, ‘When the Founding member Jorge Lights Go Out,’ ‘If you’re Soares said the new group is an Getting Down’ and ‘Keep opportunity for men and women on Moving’ to name just in and around West Swindon to a few. Now original mem- network, to help local and interbers Scott and Abz are national charities, and make a back together to bring you difference in the community. Five’s greatest hits. To find out more mail Jorge: Stacey Solomon shot jrg_srs@yahoo.co.uk to fame in the 2009 X-Fac-

New Rotary Club comes together

Family Bowl Concert Old Town Bowl Saturday 21 May Gates 5pm, Concert 6pm

Hilton Swindon

Charity Race Night Thursday 30th June Lydiard Suite

S Club 3

Five

Original members Bradley, Paul and Jo

Original members Scott & Abz

Stacey Solomon X Factor I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here and

Scooch Performing Scooch do Glee and their own hits

The Scarletz

Tickets in advance £20 adults, £15 Concessions, £55 Family ticket, Group rate 10th ticket free Tickets on the gate £25 adults, £20 Concessions, £65 Family ticket

Tickets available from the Arts Centre Box Office

Box Office 01793 614837 Or in person from the Visitor Information Centre

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Race sponsorship available. Please contact mark.dixon@hilton.com for more information Raising money for Hilton in the Community Foundation and the Amber Foundation

15/04/2011 09:32

Swindon Wide

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Shunters & Wheeltappers Weekend

Raise money for local charities at the Rotary Club Duck Race Monday 30 May, Westcott Recreation Ground, Wootton Bassett Road Swindon Old Town Rotary Club members will be selling duck tickets at: S 
 ainsburys Bridgemead - Sunday 8 May, 10am to 4pm
 Asda West Swindon - Saturday 14 May & Sunday 15 May, 10am to 4pm
 Town centre - Saturday 21 May,10am to 4pm

 Tickets can also be bought on the day. www.swindonoldtownrotary.org.uk

Big Arts Day Saturday 9 July, Lydiard Park Culture Swindon will be building on last year’s wildly successful Big Arts Day by organisng a range of performing areas to showcase an even broader spectrum of the arts, with greater emphasis on local talent. Dance schools, perfor ming ar ts academies and secondary schools will be putting on shows. There will workshops in mask-making, circus skills and dance. New this year is an acoustic music zone, separate from a stage for local bands. The park will be alive with street performers, stilt-walkers, and even a huge whale. There will be a lit-

erature zone and part of the park will become a Curious Wonderland with visits by Alice, the White Rabbit and other characters from Lewis Carroll’s book. The main stage will play host to a Swindon Talent heat, and will also feature dance and music, including some exciting collaborations and a big finale in which everyone can participate. Local businesses to sponsor the event and also help out by offering their employees to volunteer on the day are needed. To find out more and to help mail: swindondoesarts@swindon.gov.uk

Saturday/Sunday/Monday 30th April, 1st & 2nd May 10.30am-5pm • Freight workings behind E6003, D2022 & 13231 • Shunting in Hayes Knoll yard using Fowler shunters “Blunsdon” & 4220031

• E6003 on passenger duties on Saturday 30 April. Steam locomotive on Sunday/Monday 1/2 May on passenger duties

Adult £8.00 Senior £7.00 Child £6.00 Family £26.00 (2 adults and 2 children)

• 50 minute timetable • Further attractions TBA. (All locomotives subject to availability)

• Cafe and shop open. Free parking

Registered Charity No 1067447

Swindon & Cricklade Railway

Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, Blunsdon, Swindon SN25 2DA Tel: 01793 771615 email scr@gmx.co.uk www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

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13/04/2011 16:50

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Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Thursday 5th, 2pm We’ll Meet Again. Relive the spirit of the 1940s with ‘Hits from the Blitz’; lots of sing-along tunes. £12.50, tea and cake £2. Wyvern Wednesday 11th, 7.30pm Seth Lakeman. A blur of fiddle, acoustic guitar and foot-stomping rhythms complemented by Seth’s unmistakable vocals. £19. Wyvern Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th, 7.30pm Kentwood Showcase. Paul Maguire and his fabulous Little Big Band accompany hits dynamic and different choral sound. £12.50. Wyvern Sunday 15th, 1pm Jazz Lunch. Enjoy some of Swindon’s best upcoming jazz musicians accompanied by an indulgent meal. £22. Balcony Restaurant, Wyvern

Theatre

Wed 25th to Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Rough Crossing by Tom Stoppard, presented by The Phoenix Players. Two playwrights and collaborators, the composer and members of the cast of a musical comedy destined for Broadway are desperately trying to finish and rehearse the show whilst crossing the Atlantic aboard the SS Italian Castle. £7, tickets from 814538, 2pm - 8pm daily. Arts Centre

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Comedy

Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th, 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm Stand Up and Be Counted starring Jim Davidson. £18 to £28.50. Wyvern Sunday 8th, 8pm Dylan Moran. Ageing, religion, kids, relationships, intertwine with the general absurdities of life, with searing observations and sumptuous imagery. £23. Wyvern Tuesday 10th, 8pm Stephen K Amos. More melt-in-themiddle, heartfelt humour to warm the cockles of your heart. £18.50. Wyvern Thursday 12th, 8pm Russell Kane with his sell-out Fringe smash Smokescreens and Castles. £15. Wyvern Friday 18th, 8pm Pappy’s: All Business. Hailed as ‘the funniest sketch show on the Fringe’. £12. Arts Centre Saturday 28th, 7.30pm

Comedy Live with Sean Hughes, Rufus Hound, Beeny Boot and Andre Vincent. From £24.50 + BF from www. swindontickets.co.uk. M.E.C.A.

14/04/2011 15:39

On in May Fundraising

Saturday 30th April,1pm - 3pm Bring and Buy Sale All proceeds to Fascinating Rhythm To book a table at £7 contact: cazcaple@hotmail.co.uk Hook Village Hall Friday 13 May, 7.30pm The Open Door Charity Gig with folk rock band The Boys from County Hell £10, incl buffet, tickets: 512357. Moonrakers Pub, Cricklade Road All proceeds to The Open Door Centre Saturday 14 May 12noon to 5pm Health Beauty and Wellbeing Day Taster sessions: reiki, massage, reflexology, shiatsu, accupressure, manicures, pedicures, facials and many more therapies Entrance fee, £2, & raffle in aid of The Epilepsy Society, Swindon Social Hall, Drove Peoples Campus, Southampton Street SN1 3AH For details call Erica Smith, 340271 Thursday 19 and Friday 20 May 2pm - 4pm Spring Plant Sale, Cream Teas, Strawberries and Ice Creams Hanging baskets available to pre-order Tregoze Primary School Grange Park Call 876800 for further information

Wiltshire Family History Society The Swindon Branch meets at 7.30pm on the second and fourth Thursdays each month at Gorse Hill Community Centre, Chapel Street, SN2 8DA. Non-members are welcomed and there is no charge. A help desk is available to assist beginners and those with research problems. Coming up: 12 May: A light hearted look at old Handwriting - a talk by John Hurley 26 May: Informal discussion groups on “How do I do...............?” For further information contact the branch secretary, Glenys Bettley on 525523 or mail: glenys.bettley@ ntlworld.com

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 770401 M.E.C.A.,Regent Circus SN1 1PR Tel: 08445 793322 Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328/466454 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

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25

Musical

Tuesday 24th to Sunday 29th, various times

Nina’s Beads Design your own bracelet or necklace for either yourself or someone special

Charm Bead Parties Ideal Party Gifts For more information telephone Nina

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical starring Keith Jack, runner up in BBC’s Any Dream Will Do. £25 - £28. Wyvern

01793 706439

Email: ninabeads@gmail.com

Tuesday 31st, 2.30pm High School Rocks. A high-energy, interactive production featuring the best hits from High School Musical 1, 2 & 3, Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and Glee. £13.50. Wyvern

Children & Family

Saturday 30 April to Monday 1 May May Day weekend. Lots of traditional fun including Maypole dancing for the whole family. Roves Farm Saturdays 7th & 21st, 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 Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th 21st Swindon International Kite Festival. Organised by White Horse Kite Flyers, there will be displays of kites of all shapes and sizes as well as trade stands. Lydiard Park, for details see www.whkf.org.uk Sunday 8th, 12noon & 3pm The Way Back Home. An intergalactic adventure as a boy finds a plane in his cupboard, flies it high until he runs out of petrol and lands on the moon. How will he find his way home? Suit 3 years and older. £8; children £6; family £22. Arts Centre Saturday 14th, 2.30pm Stig of the Dump. A wonderful musical production of Clive King’s famous story with lots of audience participation. £8; children £6; family £22. Arts Centre Tuesday 17th, 7pm The Piano Festival. A celebration of young pianists, organised by The Commonweal School. £5. Arts Centre Thursday 19th & Friday 20th, 7.30pm; Saturday 21st, 2pm & 7pm Stage Struck. One of Swindon’s most popular music and comedy groups return with their all-new variety show. £12. Wyvern Saturday 28 May to Sunday 5 June Scarecrows. Have a go at making a mini scarecrow, then see how many scarecrows you can spot as you take a tractor ride trip. Roves Farm

STUDLEY GRANGE BUTTERFLY WORLD AND CRAFT VILLAGE

Visit Butterfly World and experience the tropics in Wiltshire, rain or shine, summer or winter. Enjoy a truly magical experience as you walk amongst hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies flying around a tropical paradise of plants and fish filled pools. Then visit our otters, goats, meerkats, guinea pigs and loads more farmyard favourites in our outdoor Animal Paddock. Craft Village offers a huge range of beautiful and interesting gifts, many of which are skilfully handcrafted on site. Follow brown tourist signs from J16 of M4 motorway towards Wroughton.

Admission Charges: A £4.95 C £4.45 S £4.45 F £16.50 (2+2) Opening Times: Summer 2011: daily 10am-6pm Winter 2011: daily 10am-4pm Hay Lane, Wroughton Swindon SN4 9QT Tel: 01793 852400 www.studleygrange.co.uk

13/04/2011 15:26

Swindon Wide

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the bigger picture Maximum turn out at Mad March Hare

There were lots of bunny ears and rabbit painted faces in evidence, at the fourth Mad March Hare on Sunday 27 March. Over 800 entrants ran, walked and pushed baby buggies around either 5km or 10km circular routes from Greendown School in Grange Park, through parts of West Swindon and Lydiard Park. Eighty volunteers directed participants along the way. The Swindon women volunteers who organised the day are hoping to have raised £11,000 which will total £40,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer (Wiltshire) in the last four years. www.madmarchhare.org.uk

ABBA Tribute

Neurological Fair. Saturday 21 May, 11am to 3pm Information stands on most neurological conditions, games, complimentary therapies, free taster sessions, refreshments Stratton Community and Leisure Centre, Grange Drive, Swindon Organised by Swindon and Wilts Neurological Alliance, a non-profit making organisation For more information call David Wray: 481700

Swindon Cycles

Superstore

With 250 bikes on show including electric bikes Friday 6th May

Join us for an evening with “ABBA Tribute”. Enjoy a drink in the bar from 7pm to be seated at 7.45pm for a 3 course meal followed by live entertainment for only pp

£29.95

For bookings and more information call

01285 864333 www.cotswoldwaterparkhotel.co.uk

Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel, Lake 6 Spine Road East, South Cerney, Gloucestershire, GL7 5FP

21-52 May 11.indd 26

the price is right the parking is free Birthday club: deposit reserves

choice is yours e h T Parts, repairs, accessories, back up stock Open: Mon to Sat, 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays - riding our bikes!

Tel: (01793) 700105

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

www.swindoncycles.co.uk

13/04/2011 15:26

swindonlink.com • May 2011

27

On your bike at festival of literature

As part of the Swindon Festival of Literature 2011, Culture Swindon and CTC, the UK’s national cyclists’ organisation, have teamed up to organize a cycle ride and talk with celebrated author and TV documentary star, Rob Penn on Monday 2 May, 6pm. Rob will be joined by Anna Rob Penn, author, cyclist, and bike-lover, has ridden a bicycle most Cipullo, CTC Cycle Champion days of his adult life, has a bike for for Swindon, to give a talk on the every occasion, has built his own, pleasure and power of pedaling. Anna is on a mission to see as and once pedalled round the world, many people as possible on two by the shortest 40,000km route. His book, It’s All About the Bike wheels in Swindon. The evening is free of charge – the Pursuit of Happiness on Two Wheels is a great read for anyone else and starts at Lydiard House with who likes their bike. The journey to a 30 minute cycle ride followed by build his dream bike was also the refreshments and an illustrated talk subject of a recent TV documentary. at 7pm.

The First Swindon Greener Living Bike Ride - Sunday 22 May Organised by Swindon Climate Action Network (SCAN) and Swindon Bicycle Users Group (BUG), the 12.5 mile fun ride assembles at 10.15am for a 10.30am start outside the library at Link Centre. The route will use good off-road cycle tracks, taking in some of Swindon’s finest nature reserves and community sites as well as calling into several households committed to greener lifestyles along the route. Wear appropriate clothing and bring a bite to eat. Children under 16 must wear a cycle helmet and be accompanied by a responsible adult. For details, mail Simon Smith: simon@ssniff.orangehome.co.uk

15th Castles Bike Ride - Sunday 5 June, 10am

In aid of Macmillan Cancer Support - marking 100 years since Douglas Macmillan started to offer help to people who are living with cancer, and their families. Starts at Croft Sports Centre, Old Town; on the day registration from 8.30am. Three routes on offer: 10, 17 and 27 miles. Cost £5 by 3 June; £10 on the day. Children under 15 £2. No under 12s. For details mail: jillgreenaway@ntlworld.com

DITCH THE WORK OUT, JOIN THE PARTY! The Latin Inspired, Easy To Follow Calorie-Burning Dance-Fitness Party Red Oaks Primary School: Mondays: 6.10pm - 7.00pm Wednesdays: 6.40pm - 7.30pm Gorse Hill Community Centre: Sundays: 7.00pm - 7.50pm Wednesdays: 12.10pm - 1.00pm Toothill Community Centre: Tuesdays: 12.30pm - 1.20pm Freshbrook Community Centre: Tuesdays: 6.00pm - 6.45pm

Kathie 0777 5651566 info@zumbainswindon.co.uk www.zumbainswindon.co.uk ZUMBA® and the Zumba Fitness logo are trademarks used under license.

y f u l l da p m a c t o o b 1st may

and All food plied drink sup

FREE Guided Rides Every Sunday in Swindon!

The rides are free of charge and are open to all abilities every Sunday afternoon. They set off from different locations each week and are a wonderful opportunity to get out with the family, make new friends, or just relax and discover the local cycling networks and the joys of cycling. All our routes are targeted at people of average fitness rather than racing cyclists and you can register on the day. Most rides will be completed within 2 hours, but this will depend on the ability of the whole group. No one will be left behind or asked to go faster and shortcuts are available. The only rule is to relax and enjoy the ride. Please contact me for a timetable or visit www.ctc.org.uk/swindonrides. If you have any queries about the ride, please contact Anna Cipullo on 07717 696672 or email: anna.cipullo@ctc.org.uk

21-52 May 11.indd 27

14/04/2011 16:15

28

swindonlink.com • May 2011

Swindon Festival Of Walking 7th May – 22nd May 2011

Get walking in May

From guided country strolls and urban fitness walks to wildlife trails and Nordic walking, there’s something for everyone at the first Festival of Walking organised by Swindon Council Leisure Services in conjunction with NHS Swindon and with support from numerous community groups and volunteers. The festival coincides with Walk unless otherwise stated. “So whether you’d like to take to Work Week from 9 to 13 May and Walk to School Week, 16 to 20 May. your first steps after a period of Amanda Rothwell, Walking De- illness or want to stride out with velopment Officer, says, “walking others across our local parks or is an ideal exercise - good for your urban trails, check out the festival mind and body, and you don’t booklet to discover what’s on and need any special equipment. Just .... get walking.” The booklet is available at local make sure you wear comfortable shoes and take a bottle of water, leisure centres and online at www. especially in warmer weather. All challengeswindon.org.uk Or call Amanda on 07866 418 537. organised festival walks are free,

Best brightly coloured foot forward

Join Swindon’s first festival of walking and discover why the borough is a great place to walk. From guided country strolls and urban fitness walks to wildlife trails and Nordic walking, there’s something for everyone. Also Walk to Work and Walk to School Weeks.

Shaw Ridge Primary School started practicing in March for the walking festival and Walk to School Week by donning multi-coloured socks and launching a new project to encourage parents to leave the cars at home and walk with their children to school. This project is particularly aimed at families living closeby after parents, children and teachers mapped out routes within a ‘Five Minute Walk Zone’ of the school.

Details and festival walk programme at www.challengeswindon.org.uk

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Walk the Ridgeway for charity Alan Fletcher, chair of Swindon Guide Dogs, writes

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The Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown has been organising the Walkley Midnight Walks on a twenty mile section of the Ridgeway for the last twenty years and Swindon Guide Dogs are looking for members of the public to walk on their behalf and help raise funds for our charity. The walk takes place on 11 June, at 11pm, starting at the Red Lion Pub in Avebury after a courtesy coach transfer from the finish point at Bishopstone Village Hall at 9.30pm. Cars can be parked free of charge safely during the night in the village. Rotary Club members marshall the route, including all major junctions and road crossings, and will also provide a four wheel drive vehicle with a qualified first aider to assist any walker. Free refreshment is provided along the route, whilst the Royal Oak provides a hearty breakfast at the finishing point in Bishopstone Entry is free. If you would like to walk for Swindon Guide Dogs please call me on 827589 or mail: shiralan@fletcas.freeserve.co.uk for entry and sponsorship forms.

Other charities welcome

The Walkley Walk is open to individuals and teams wishing to support any charity of their choosing. Last year participants raised money for 46 local, national and international charities. See details, entry and sponsorship forms at The Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown site: http:// bit.ly/eszkpv

Two walks for MS Centre Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis is looking for people willing to take part in the Rotary Club of Marlborough sponsored walk on Sunday 15 May, one of 8 miles and the other 4 miles and also the Walkley Midnight Walk on 11 June. For details call the centre on 481700. www.msswindon.org.uk

13/04/2011 15:34

swindonlink.com • May 2011

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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

Are You In Pain? We Can Offer Effective, Affordable Treatment

01793 535108

Family friendly dental practice New patients welcome All routine & cosmetic dentistry Adult & child modern orthodontics Free parking Same day appointments

29

Get to the root of your problem:

Tel: (01793) 887801 www.shawchiropracticclinic.co.uk

IF YOU SUFFER FROM: • Backache & Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain • Head Pain • Numbness • Arthritic Pain • Sports Injury • Injury after Accident THEN YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. Doctor of Chiropractic BCA Member • GCC Registered Member of the College of Chiropractors

FREE SPINAL CHECKS

EVENING & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS

5 Ramleaze House, Shaw Village Centre, Swindon SN5 5PY

PHOENIX SURGERY

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.

Dunwich Drive, Toothill Village Centre www.phoenixsurgery.com

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

County victory for Tregoze hockey

Tregoze Primary School mixed hockey team is celebrating its first ever win of the Wiltshire County Cup Hockey Finals.

Treating: • Tennis/golfer’s elbow • Shoulder pain/stiffness • Neck pain • Lower back pain • Acute/chronic pain • Muscular/sports injuries Also offering sports massage and a mobile service if you are unable to come to the clinic

Tel: 07827 324789 revolution-ukhealth.co.uk

Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Westlea

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • NECK PAIN Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic • BACK PAIN will benefit you. • HEADACHES Please call • SPORTS INJURY 01793 602454 • CAR ACCIDENT

Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC Member of the Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems British Chiropractic Association & College above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive of Chiropractors. strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike. Registered with GCC

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

Teacher and coach Bev Lewis, said, “we were one of 18 schools who qualified for the Wiltshire Year 5/6 County Finals, held in Chippenham. Tregoze won their pool quite easily but the semi final against Robert Le Kyng A team was a close match, going to extra time, penalties and sudden death penalties. The atmosphere was very tense; when we won our team and supporters were ecstatic. “In the final the team played against Broad Chalke Primary School, Salisbury. It started badly for Tregoze but this spurred them to action with stunning play from Chloe Lewis - named Player of the Tournament - while goalie Callum Bradley made a fantastic save. Tregoze managed a third goal to win the final and the county cup.”

PENZANCE DRIVE, NEXT TO THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP

TEL: 01793 528208 SCALE 20 2011

CAMBER EXPERT 2011

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£1399

MTB DEMO DAY CROFT COUNTRY WOODS SUNDAY 8TH MAY 2011 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS OR ASK AT OUR SWINDON STORE www.hargrovescycles.co.uk

15/04/2011 09:12

swindonlink.com • May 2011

Greendown making an impact on rugby scene

Greendown Community School travelled to the Wiltshire and Dorset schools tournament at the end of March and came away with the winners trophy - the first time a Swindon school has won the title.

By Sue

31

◆ Your local family hairdresser ◆ 25% discount for Seniors Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 Home visits available

• Eyelash Extensions • Nail Enhancements • Children’s Parties • Fully Qualified & Insured • Weddings & Special Occasions • Flexible Appointments to Suit You

Tel/Fax 01793 706447

Mobile: 07886 298881

e: nailbox@swindon.myzen.co.uk

www.nailbox.biz

Pilates class

Delighted coach Alex Buchalik said it’s taken about eight years to establish Greendown as a force in schools’ rugby. “We’re been building on our strengths and developing talent every year in an area not renowned for rugby. So I’m really pleased for the players who worked together and showed great spirit and character.” He said their determination was put to the test in the final of the com-

petition when they were pegged back to a draw at full time. “Rugby above all else is a team game, but in sudden death extra time, cometh the hour, cometh the man, Jay Atkins again forced his way over to seal the victory. Brilliant.” Alex added, “there are many local clubs for players to join and we’re encouraging pupils to play outside school and carry on when they leave.”

Swindonkungfu.co.uk Junior Kung Fu Adults Kung Fu Chinese Kickboxing Mixed Martial Arts Call 01793 747654 or visit the website for more details

for beginners and improvers Every Monday, 7.45 - 8.45pm and every Tuesday, 8 - 9pm at Peatmoor Community Primary School Every Thursday, 7pm - 8pm, at Isambard Community School Each course is for 6 weeks, to be booked and paid for in advance, costing £30. For further details and to book on the next course please contact Debbie Mitchell

on 01793 722152 or 07745 422365

Come and visit Swindon’s First Garra Rufa fish foot spa Be one of hundreds who have been amazed at our little ‘therapists’ as they gently ‘kiss’ away hard skin, stimulate acupuncture points and circulation, and alleviate conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Many people who have tried this treatment have reported that as well as seeing soft, supple and smooth skin, they had one of the best night’s sleep they’d ever had! The water is filtered 6 times an hour and goes through UV sterilisation; there is absolutely no risk of cross contamination.

• Senior Citizens 20% off on Tuesdays and Wednesdays • Book a party of 6 or more and receive 10% off • Gift vouchers available 15 minute treatment £15 30 minute treatment £25 (inc lotion and foot massage) Mini manicure/pedicure with shape and paint £8

Free Parking/No appointment necessary

Tel: 01793 602466

Sole Spa Swindon, 75 Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon, SN5 7EX www.solespa-swindon.co.uk • info@ solespa-swindon.co.uk

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Relax, Unwind, Revitalise your body, spirit & mind • Hot stone & body massage • Indian head massage • Crystal therapy • Reiki • Hopi candle • Laser hair removal • Light & Hair energy treatment Buy one treatment, get another half price with this advert Call Rekha Tanna Hirani MGHT

07849 241117

info@omholistic www.omholistic.com

Gym kit wanted Swindon Scrapstore in Westlea is being helped by former boxers Paul Rogers and Andy Brown to set up a gym to ensure young people can become fit and focussed. Scrappers Gym at Westmead Industrial Estate will give 13 to 24 year olds an affordable way of following personal development programmes through working out. But the venture needs donations of fitness equipment to get going. Gyms undergoing refurbishment or readers having a clear-out of the garage should contact Olivia McCann on 07739 023290 with offers.

Arsenal Soccer Schools Half Term Course for boys and girls aged 5 to 15 years 31st May, 1st & 2nd June, 10am - 3pm daily Isambard Learning Campus £17 - 1 day; £32 - 2 days; £42 - 3 days ‘Booking Buddy’ discounts available. Players Development Centre for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years Wednesdays, 5pm - 6pm: 1st to 29th June Orchid Vale Primary School Free introductory session on 1st June £18 per child for 5 weeks (block booking only) For details and to book, call 07872 579864 / 07872 580270 www.playerssoccerschools.co.uk

The specialists that have all you need - for your big adventure!

01793 488882 Unit 108, Basepoint

Business Centre Swindon SN5 7EX

RUNNING, TRIATHLON + CYCLING SPECIALISTS • FREE gait analysis • cycle workshop • bike sales, repairs & custom builds • running shoes • wetsuits & triathlon clothing • sports nutrition • heart rate monitors NEW • clothing & accessories STORE • bike fitting jig LAYOUT • finance available

Captivating Capoeira club in Swindon

The amazing acrobatic and fluid dance moves of the Brazilian martial art Capoeira are now a reality for Swindonians looking for a vibrant new hobby involving dynamic music and exercise. The moves involve sweeping leg dren’s class at 12.30pm. kicks, handstands and cartwheels Keen Capoeira player Aaron performed to a compelling beat Hughes, a 27 year old teacher from of Samba or traditional Brazilian West Swindon, said, “Capoeira is music, and looks like just the thing a wonderful art form that appeals for energetic youngsters to get into. to children and adults alike. Our North Wiltshire’s only Capoeira youngest member is 3 and our oldgroup meets at Nuffield Health est in their 40s. Fitness and Wellbeing centre at To sign up and get involved in this Greenbridge from 11am to 12.30pm liberating art form contact Nuffield on Saturday mornings, with a chil- Health on 422211.

Strong performance from under 10s

Swindon Rangers under 10s A team have swept all before them again this season, winning 18 league and cup games, scoring 122 goals and conceding 9. In 2010 the team were unbeaten in league and cup games. The club currently trains at Headlands Grove and is looking for another goalkeeper when the team transfer from mini-soccer to 11 a side matches in September. To find out more contact Dave Tyson: djtyson@sky.com

swindonlink.com • May 2011

Free sessions at gym club open day

With expansion of their premises in Stratton, Swindon School of Gymnastics is now able accommodate more children. On Sunday 8 May, 2pm to 4pm, the club is offering two free taster sessions for youngsters who would like to try out gymnastics before parents commit to the termly fees. To register for places call 480846 or mail: ssginfo@tiscali.co.uk www.ssg-gymnastics.co.uk

McTimoney Chiropractor Phil Yalden

BSc (Hons), MMCA

Clinics in West Swindon including Link Centre

07793 596 334 chiropractor@bonyparts.co.uk

www.bonyparts.co.uk

Pilates

A great way to tone your abdominals, strengthen your back and improve posture. Every Monday 18.15-19.15 Village Hall - Broad Hinton Every Tuesday 13.05-13.55 St Bart’s Church Hall - Wootton Bassett Every Wednesday 18.15-19.15 Pheonex Bar, High St - Wootton Bassett

Circuits

All over body work out, designed to burn fat and reshape your body. Every Monday 19.30-20.15 Village Hall - Broad Hinton for information and bookings call Louise 07843 388938

or email louise.energise@btinternet.com

Feel Happier, Healthier and more Relaxed!

Yoga for the real world

The phone is ringing, the children want your attention, you’re planning the evening meal, the bills are mounting up and amongst all this chaos you’re supposed to find the time to get fit and achieve a peaceful state of mind? Not to worry, without travelling everything else, take a few slow to a far away land you can find a calming breaths, trying to breathe haven of peace at yoga with Yasmin through the nose and dropping the breath down into the abdomen and Fattori at Greendown School. She will teach you essential then... carry on with your day. With practice you simply won’t stress-busting techniques to improve your sense of physical and even begin to react to what used to mental well being. So when you’re be potentially stressful situations. What’s not to like? See Yasmin’s going through that early morning rush with phones, children and advert on the right.

Free offer in return for food donations

Curves all women fitness centre in North Swindon will again be taking part in the annual food collection organised by Curves centres worldwide during May. This is the sixth year local franchisee Kathryn Steele has supported Swindon Women’s Refuge and she’s hoping readers will respond by dropping by with non-perishable food stuffs and monetary donations. Last year, Curves members donated 371lbs. to the refuge and lots of newcomers to Curves saved themselves a lot of money. Existing members making a donation in May will receive a Curves T-shirt and new members will have their £59 joining fee waived. It’s certainly a good month to join with charitable giving and the opportunity to get fit in a woman only environment. See more details below.

Give a Little, Save a Lot.

Curves is a fun and effective 30-minute workout for women with all the support you need. Bring in a shopping bag of non-perishable food to help Swindon Women’s Refuge and we’ll return the favour by asking you to join Curves, the world’s leader in women’s fitness, for FREE! Please drop by Curves in North Swindon and make a donation from 27 April to 11 May.

Bring in a bag of non-perishable food - Join for FREE* 01793 745200 curves.co.uk

Unit 3, Greencote House, Isambard Way, Redhouse, Swindon, SN25 2NT *Food or cash donation required to a local charity determined by the club. Offer based on first visit enrolment, minimum 12 months direct debit programme. New members only. Not valid with any other offer. Valid only at participating locations from 27/4/11 - 11/5/11. © 2011 Curves International, Inc.

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Live your life to its fullest potential with Emotional Freedom Technique (for trauma, fears, phobias, anger, panic, anxiety, etc.) Also, Reflexology, Reiki, Ear Candling and Massage.

Certified Reiki and AAMET EFT Practitioner Courses

£5 off for new clients with this advert

Call now on (01793) 871410

Cherri Ann Matthews FFHT FICHT ATLM MIfL Qualified Therapist & Trainer

www.cherriannmatthews.co.uk Sparcells, Swindon

The Thyme Treatment Rooms Centre for Health & Wellbeing Shellac Nails Minx Toes Facials & Massage Reflexology Kinesiology Acupuncture Vortex Healing Thai Foot Massage Thai Herbal Massage Daoyin Tao Facial Massage 709 Delta Office Park Welton Road, Swindon SN5 5XN

Tel: 01793 692691 Tel: 01793 433338 www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk

Abbey Meads

Tuesday, 6.30pm Abbey Meads School Hugo Drive

Paula 07733 082579 TAw hill

Wednesday, 6.30pm & 8.15pm St Francis Primary School Aiken Road

Heather 07816 860840 Haydon Wick

New Times from 9th May Monday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Thursday 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm St John Church, Thames Avenue

Sharon 0784 111 9082

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Cycling for Comic Relief OFFERING 3 FREE LESSONS • • • • • •

Student discounts Discounts for block bookings Intensive courses Excellent pass rate Patient & friendly instructor Free driving theory test help & advice

Steve Boorman (A.D.I) 100% committed to your learning needs

07916 146010 or 01793 873732 driverightms@btinternet.com All 200 places were snapped up for the eight back-to-back RPM Cycling sessions at Link Centre in aid of Comic Relief on Sunday 20 March. Organiser Caroline Rhodes said, “there was a fantastic atmosphere with some people trying RPM for the very first time and others stepping out of their comfort zone and doing multiple classes. Three people did all eight which was incredible.” As a result of their marathon effort £1,200 was raised for charity.

Outdoor fitness in Redhouse

There are no longer any excuses for Redhouse residents not to get fit this spring with the installation of brand new outdoor fitness equipment for adults in the park adjacent to Eastbury Way, opposite Doulton Close. The kit, installed in early April, has been funded by Blunsdon St Andrews Parish Council. Dennis Rogers, right, who lives opposite the park was keen to give the rowing machine a try. “It’s quite good – and my wife can keep an eye on me through the window,” he said. Year 10 students from Isambard Community School were also invited to try out the fitness stations. “It’ll be good to get the teachers to do something sponsored here,” said Harvey Barrow.

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

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

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

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

Open 8.30am - 5.30pm

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

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

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39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

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What future for our NHS?

What is to happen to the NHS and adult social care services locally and nationally - and how can local people influence services to make them better? asks Jo Osorio of the other Link - Swindon Local Involvement Network, below. On Wednesday 18 May Swindon LINk holds an open meeting from 10.30am to 3.30pm, with a light lunch included, at the Pilgrim Centre, Regent Street to discuss these questions. Key speakers will include Cherry Jones, acting joint director of public health in Swindon and Lyn Hill-Tout, chief executive of Great Western Hospitals NHS Trust. Even though the coalition government has called a ‘time for reflection’ on the Health and Social Care Bill on its way through parliament, plans to establish Healthwatch Swindon as the local health and care consumer watchdog are beginning to take shape. The bill includes big changes to the way health and care will be planned and commissioned in future with local GPs taking a bigger role. And from next April local people should have greater influence over what is provided and paid for with public funding - and how. Local Involvement Network (LINk) chair Derek Benfield said, “our open meeting will begin to help us shape how we develop the LINk into Healthwatch Swindon during the next twelve months. “We do need to know if Link magazine readers plan on coming on 18 May so we can organise the catering - so please get in touch.” For details contact the LINk office at Voluntary Action Swindon, 1 John Street. Tel: 497777 www.swindonlink.org

Grey power plan in Swindon A number of senior citizens are exploring wider interest in setting up a local, independent Older People’s Forum to promote the welfare and interests of older people across Swindon, and to facilitate discussion and debate on their issues and concerns. The group is open to all over the age of 55 years living within Swindon and will meet three or four times a year. If you think this is a good idea and/ or have an interest in being involved mail David Brown: dave.abrown@ btinternet.com

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swindonlink.com • May 2011 Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week

Show off your garden talent West Swindon Open Garden Father’s Day weekend

19 & 20 June If you’re willing to open your garden to the public in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, mail Lesley Dredge at: rdredge1@toucansurf.com

Quality TGB garden buildings for any situation Bespoke sizes available Base laying & installation available

A splash of colour at the open gardens last year

Make a difference with wildflowers

www.conservatorycentres.co.uk www.acerpaving.co.uk

‘Butterfly pub’ delivered to your door Wildlife habitats are under threat from housing development and modern agricultural practices, but Swindon Wildflower Nursery is trying to do something to prevent the loss by encouraging householders to create places in their own gardens to encourage butterfly and bee survival. Not only does the nursery offer nity Gardens at Manor Garden advice on how to turn part of a Centre, where Swindon Wildflower garden into a wildlife area, for £10 Nursery is based, any Wednesday including delivery, they’ll sell you a from 10.30am to 12.30pm until ‘butterfly pub.’ This wooden plant- October for advice and to buy er contains a dozen wildflowers for wildflowers. Twigs is also open on the patio or a corner to become a Mondays and Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm for purchases. Or call 692596 haven for butterflies and bees. Drop into the TWIGS Commu- to place an order.

West Swindon community wildflower plant in May to boost blossoms for bees and butterflies

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

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

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

www.sansums.co.uk 21-52 May 11.indd 36

On Sunday 8 May, 10.30am to 12.30pm, Peatmoor Community Woodland Group, Swindon Wildflower Nursery and Swindon Flowers & Butterfly Project are holding a community wildflower plant at Peatmoor Glades. All you have to do is turn up with gloves and a trowel and add to the flower collection. Some nettle clearing might be necessary. Contribute 30 minutes or a couple of hours to help make the area more attractive to insects, butterflies and bees. Peatmoor Glades are adjacent to the west end of Peatmoor Way on the south side of the lagoon. For directions mail: roger_ogle@mac.com or Cowslips in bloom at the glades call 608840 (weekdays).

Shaw tidy up Shaw Residents’ Association is organising a litter pick in the area around Shaw village centre on Saturday 7 May, starting at 10.30pm. Bags and litter pickers will be provided. All are welcome to join in. www.shawresidents.org.uk

☞

CLICK & BUY ON ONLINE SIMPLE TO USE ONLINE SHOP SELECT YOUR DIY FENCE/GATE KIT BUY & WE DELIVER

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FULL RANGE OF GATES • Help & Advice on all Fencing Matters • Free Home Survey • Famiy Business Est 1983

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14/04/2011 15:45

swindonlink.com • May 2011

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. • Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding NO VAT • Ponds & pergolas

Tel: 07711 253508 gazebolandscaping @gmail.com Quality products & workmanship

FREETH FENCING & GARDEN SERVICES LTD EST. 1990

35 Spencer Close, West Swindon

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

Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940 247152 www.freethfencingandgardenservicesltd.com

Chelworth Landscapes

Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing and gates Closeboard, trellis, panels, picket, chainlink, security etc

• Landscaping Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029

www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk

LANDSERVE

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

Professional care for your garden Grass cutting - regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Decking Hedge cutting & pruning

No Job Too Small. All works insured Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation

on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

CLIFF WHITEWAY SERVICES For all your home & garden needs Patios Decking Paths Turfing Walling Fencing Driveways For a free quote call Cliff on

Tel: 01793 731418 Mobile: 07808 355487

Established locally for over 8 years References available

David Hawkins Tree Surgeon

All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Stump grinding Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates 14 years experience

Lawn & garden maintenance Hedge cutting & planting Tree planting & pruning Weeding & much more

Tel: 01793 486507 Mob: 077382 98004

willslatergardencare@hotmail.com

HERITAGE TREE CARE

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

01793 687357 07971 566880 Email: treeman@iwalding.freeserve.co.uk

Blackwood JillGarden Magic Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal

PROFESSIONAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND LANDSCAPING SERVICE

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

Mobile: 07951 014119

01793 832232 07967 594707

or e-mail: gillian.blackwood@ntlworld com www.jillblackwoodgardendesign.co.uk

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS ❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

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Garden Doctors LANDSCAPES LTD

Established in 1994, we have completed over 1500 Gardens & Driveways With an enviable reputation for reliable, skilled work borne out by the many recommendations received See photos & testimonials at

www.swindonlandscaping.co.uk Contact James Cherry for free & friendly advice

01793 526571 Mob: 07760127139 Block paving, patios, fencing, turfing etc

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Viva La Diva show Saturday 30 April, 10am - 4pm Steam Museum All day programme of catwalk and hair shows, inspirational speakers, Swindon’s Top Model, stalls, demonstrations from fashion designers and make-up artists from local businesses and colleges, a kids zone dedicated to mini-divas, and children’s dance shows. Proceeds to Breast Cancer Campaign For tickets, at £5, call 07948 372 965 www.vivaladiva.yolasite.com

Janet‛s Puppy Skool

Have fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes

✓ Playskool for puppies ✓ Adult beginners/improvers ✓ Senior Skool/advanced classes ✓ One to one advice & training ✓ Fun agility workshops

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

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

Researcher seeks help with North Swindon book Heritage, is a qualified tour Do you have an elderly relaguide and the historian for tive who loves to talk about Littlecote House near Hunthe olden days around north gerford. She attributes her Swindon? fascination with history to If so, local history and gechildhood walks and visits nealogy buff Debra Edmonds to stately homes. from Oakhurst would love to With a deadline to write hear from you. her book Debra is looking Debra has won a publishfor all the help she can get. “I ing contract to write a book would love to speak to older based on the idea of a historipeople who know the area cal walk around North West around Blunsdon St Andrew, Swindon, offering readers the Haydon Wick, Pinehurst, opportunity to rediscover the Rodbourne Cheney, Penhill, past in the local landscape. Moredon and Gorse Hill, and She said, “I love looking at who will remember all about old maps and like to imagine the old lanes and farms. what places would have “Sometimes a farm was looked like hundreds of years known by the name of the ago, so I wanted to put topeople who ran it rather than gether a book that persuades its given name, so it would people to get out and look for be good to hear people’s the history around them.” memories.” Debra has a long lineage Get in touch with Debra in Swindon and has traced at: info@presenting-the-past. her own ancestors back as co.uk far as the 17th Century. “I’m www.presenting-the-past. related to William Edmonds Debra with pictures of her ancestors co.uk William Edmonds and Jacob Edmonds of Lydiard Tregoze who was gardener to Lord Bolingbroke at Lydiard House in the 1870s, and my great-great-great-grandfather was Jacob Edmonds, a parish clerk at Lydiard.” Debra, who works for English Two businesses have joined forces at Studley Grange Craft Village, with paper crafting and scrap booking specialists Sparkle Dreams and the Dolls House Workshop combining their strengths to offer longer opening hours, more frequent workshops and a more comprehensive online outlet. They will be holding a grand relaunch on Saturday 14 May, 10am to 5pm, with scrapbooking and card making demonstrations, dolls house viewings, gifts, cakes and a chance to win a papercrafting hamper. Solace Scholey, mother of four and former training officer for Vodaphone, of Sparkle Dreams, said, “the shops retain their own identity, but are in the same large area at Studley Grange. We’re excited about the improvements to the store and the scrapbooking, and for dolls house product range; we have increased enthusiasts. our stock by 50 per cent and will “All this, together with a large be open from 10am to 5pm, seven cash injection from Tony Miller, days a week. owner of Studley Grange, will make “A new purpose built classroom us one of the largest businesses of has been incorporated in the en- its type in the South West.” larged shop, which means more www.sparkledreams.co.uk workshops in card making and www.studleygrange.co.uk

Workshops on 14 May to celebrate craft businesses coming together

Get your pet’s vaccination back on track this month Give your pet the boost they need this month with a full vaccination course for the cost of a routine booster 62 - 64 Purton Rd, Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way) Tel: 01793 526780

24 Hour Emergency Service

Open: Monday to Friday 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk

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Sponsored walk in aid of the PDSA,

organised by North Swindon Fundraising Group and supported by Janet’s Puppy Skool Sunday 1 May, 10am to 4pm, Lydiard Park Walk around the park plus craft fayre, dog agility course, competitions. To register call 493178 or mail: brentboxley@hotmail.co.uk

15/04/2011 10:40

swindonlink.com • May 2011

Schools gear up to go green in aid of the NSPCC

The NSPCC is making an appeal to Swindon schools to wear ‘green gear’ on Friday 27 May in support of its South West Child’s Voice Appeal. The appeal received a flying start colour instead of their usual blue take part in the green gear day and we were delighted with the result. in March when pupils at Nova sweatshirts and raised £819.79. Nova headteacher Julie Tridgell They decided to donate £2 each split Hreod School donned green in honour of the NSPCC’s signature said, “our pupils really wanted to equally between NSPCC and Help for Heroes. We’ll be taking part again on 27 May and urge all schools across Thanks to Swindon people from Ozarichi Swindon to get involved.” Organisers hope to raise at least Swindon Thamedown Rotary Club has secured a grant for a minibus for a school in Belarus from Rotary International to add to money raised at £5,000 in Swindon. Register and receive a supRotary events in the town. The club has worked closely with Wiltshire based Chernobyl Children In Need which has built a close link between porter’s pack at www.nspcc.org. uk/greengear, or call 01823 346346 the village of Ozarichi and Swindon. or mail: swindon110@nspcc.org.uk 
www.childsvoiceappeal.org.uk Headteacher Tatiana Teterich writes: The teaching staff of Ozarichi Secondary Comprehensive School express their sincere gratitude for your hard work and Plumbing Services persistence in raising the money for Gin McGiffin, of Chenobyl Children in Need, second left buying the minibus • Domestic Plumbing with Ilena Klitchkovskaya, regional government deputy for for our school. • Leaks & Burst Pipes education, Valentina Kasiyanchik, district chief of education, • Tap Washers & Ball Valves We need this mini- Tatiana Teterich, director of Ozarichi school • Immersions & Hot Water Cylinders bus very much. We • Radiators Replaced often have to take the school- examinations, to sport competitions • Taps, Sinks & Toilets children to different places. The and contests to Kalinkovichi and • Full Bathroom Installations minibus will be used for taking Gomel. Our teachers with a social • Wall & Floor Tiling the children from the school to the counsellor have often to visit the Tel: 01793 524 200 British Embassy and the airport problem families. Mobile: 07810 823 966 when they go for recuperation to • Read the full text of the letter at gbplumbing@hotmail.co.uk England, to the hospital for medical http://bit.ly/slink24

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OVEN CLEANING

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13/04/2011 17:22

45

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

Two closures in May

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

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Prospect shop at West Swindon Centre will reopen The Prospect Hospice’s charity shop in West Swindon will close for essential refurbishment work on Saturday 30 April and reopens for business on Tuesday 17 May, writes Andrew Thompson. The shop, which has grown a strong customer and donor supporter base since it first opened for business in December 2009, will be unable to accept donated items during this period. Donors are asked to contact Prospect’s retail office on 813644 who will operate a collection service for larger items during the closure. Alternatively, please take your good quality items to another Prospect Hospice shop, or hold onto them until the new look shop reopens on 17th.

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• Garden Clearance • House Clearance • Business Waste • Confidential Waste • Tree Cutting & Hedge Trimming • Driveway Rip ups • Builders Waste • Supplies (Collection & Delivery) THE EASY ALTERNATIVE TO A SKIP Free quotes from Pete on 07563 181 500 or email: enquiries@absolute-rubbish.co.uk

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21-52 May 11.indd 45

Writing about being a mum

Mums the Word is a new writing group for women who want to pick up a pen, or express themselves through their keyboard. The group, coordinated by about their own unique experiences mother of seven Liz Brackenbury, of motherhood and what it means meets twice a month on Mondays, to be a mum. “We aim for a warm, supportive 7.30pm to 9pm, at Lower Shaw Farm on 5 and 19 May; 2, 16 and 30 June, and nurturing environment that gives women the chance to share the and 7 July. Liz said, “the sessions are free and journey that encompasses all that mums can drop in, or attend them motherhood means to each of us.” For details call Liz on 832715 or all. The aim is to bring women together from all walks of life to write mail: bizzybs@btinternet.com

Furniture charity moves into electricals

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But doubt about Toothill post office Toothill and Westlea councillor Steve Wakefield has expressed his concerns to the Post Office after the announcement that the branch at Toothill Village Centre will close temporarily on 21 May following the resignation of the sub-post master. “I’ve expressed my scepticism about the future of the branch after receiving a letter by recorded delivery from the Post Office consultation team,” said Steve. “It says people can visit the West Swindon Centre a mile away and I suspect this could be part of a plan not to reopen Toothill. I await their reply with interest.” To comment mail Steve: steve.wakefield@yahoo.co.uk or call 349875.

Call 01793 602540 for details

West Swindon based Gateway Furniture, which supplies free furniture to people in need, has launched a new electrical testing area, which allows them to test and supply items such as washing machines and cookers. Kevin Prosser, founder of the truly fantastic service,” enthused project, said, “people who would Julie Marsh of Swindon Council’s otherwise struggle to afford to resettlement team. “The positive furnish homes are being helped - change it makes to my clients’ lives and furniture which would usually when they receive the furniture end up at the dump is being given from the project is a delight to see.” The project needs more furniture a new home.” Launched in 2009 with a small and electrical items as well as a lapgroup of volunteers at Gateway top, a second PAT testing machine, Church Swindon, a trailer and a a sign-written van or donations togarage, during their first year the wards costs of running the electrical project helped over 120 families, testing area. For more information or to dogiving away over 6.5 tonnes of nate, mail: furniture@gcswindon. furniture and 40 electrical items. “The Gateway team provide a org.uk

Gliding Centre open weekend The Vale of White Horse Gliding Centre near Shrivenham is welcoming visitors to an open weekend on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 May, 11am to 4pm. Admission is free and there will be special discount priced trial lesson flights. Other attractions include a flight simulator, barbecue, bouncy castle, vintage aircraft and cars. For details and directions call 01367 252706 or see www.swindongliding.co.uk

14/04/2011 16:55

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

Work can start to save the church in the park Mobile Hairdresser Mobile: 07970 079681 Home: 01793 323400

TERRY WINTER

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

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

St Mary’s Church in Lydiard Park has received a grant of £50,000 from English Heritage, to fund initial investigation and high level and emergency repair work to the historic building.

Stitches Sewing Service

Dressmaking, Alterations and Repairs, Bespoke Costumes

Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc.

Friendly, reliable service Contact Jean on 07887 600319

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

The total project cost will be over £124,000 with the church congregation having to find the remaining £74,000, of which £14,000 has already been raised. Hilary Gardner, project co-ordinator, below, said further fundraising is planned with applications being made to other grant making bodies. “This is the first phase in an ambitious project to conserve the church for future generations. “The second phase, which will cost up to £1 million will focus on major refurbishment to the building and conservation of the monuments and historic wall paintings. We have had encouragement from the Heritage Lottery Fund but the application process is extremely detailed and we need to demonstrate that saving the church and its historic content is worth it.” Clive Deverell, team minister for

St Mary’s said, “we’re delighted to have been awarded the English Heritage grant. As well as a worshiping church, St Mary’s is a popular venue and attracts some 3,000 visitors a year.” Hilary added, “if all those people who visit St Mary’s when they go round Lydiard House were to make a small donation, it would be such an important contribution. “The initial grant has given renewed vigour to our fundraising plans. We hope to encourage the wider community in supporting further activities to ensure the church is protected for future generations.” If the second grant application is successful repair and conservation will take at least four years. The official launch of the fundraising effort takes place with VIPs including the Bishop of Swindon and local MPs on 13 May.

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

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

· Grass Cutting · Hedge Cutting · Weeding and general tidying · One-off tidy up or regular maintenance

Tel: 01793 874806 Mob: 07943 172523

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

St. John’s Haydon Wick

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons

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

Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

Sunday 9am Services 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

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

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swindonlink.com • May 2011

47

Isla show will be a tribute to forces hospital

Monday – Saturday 12noon - 3pm

 £  

£5.95

Dinner

Monday – Saturday 5.30pm - 11.30pm

Allday Sunday

12noon - 11pm

£9.95

* Children under 1.4m / 4’7” Eat for half price

 

£9.95

 

Anyone who would like prayer for healing is welcome at the Swindon Healing Rooms, which celebrated its second anniversary in April. A Christian ministry based at generation halted and improving. Clients fill in a prayer request, Rodbourne Cheney Baptist Church, the Swindon Healing Rooms has which is passed to team members a prayer team from six different who pray with them.” The sessions are open to the churches. Director Carole McGiffie said, “Jesus spent much of His public every Monday, except Bank ministry healing the sick and we Holidays, from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. seek to follow His leading. We see No appointment is necessary and prayer as a comforting experience, all are welcome. For more information contact and we have had clients who have been healed from frozen shoulder Carole: carolemcgiffie@hotmail. and diabetic ulcers to macular de- co.uk

Lunch

 

Healing ministry welcomes public

Opening Times & Prices

The Management reserves the right to make changes without prior notice.

   

A cabaret evening on 5 August starring Isla St Clair will mark the the 70th anniversary of the opening of Princess Alexandra’s RAF Hospital Wroughton in 1941. ment, NHS treatments, The event follows and the role of the a day conference on Flying Nightingales post traumatic stress during World War II. at Swindon Marriott The conference costs Hotel, Old Town. £50 and the cabaret A range of speakers is also £50 per ticket. will consider whether Tickets for both day post traumatic stress and evening events cost actually exists and the £90. For details contact appropriate treatments, Richard Hilling: richtherapies and support, ardw.hilling@gmail. what the government is doing to prevent trauma, dealing com www.SwindonTraumaGroup. with the trauma of suicide bereave- org.uk

New Introduced Salad Bar Sushi Bar

Great Summer Choice!

First birthday for community café

The Rock Café at St John’s church in Haydon Wick celebrates its first anniversary this month, and has become a popular venue over the past year for a cup of tea and a bite to eat – including their rock cake signature treat.

Address: Pepperbox Hill Meadway Peatmoor West Swindon SWINDON SN5 5YZ

For booking please call:

01793 877888

Anna Richardson, right, with Jean Sharp, Mick Noble, Viv Williams

Café volunteer Anna Richardson said, “having the café has really added to the community of St John’s Church as people from our different congregations have got to know one another. But we’re not here to evangelise - we give a warm welcome to everyone from the local community.” The name of the café has religious connotations, but it actually arose as an acronym of the ‘Refurbishment Of the Church Kitchen’ project. Gwen Packer of Greenmeadow visits the café every week with her daughter-in-law Madeleine. “It’s a

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nice little stop off after a trip to Morrisons; the cakes always go down well,” said Gwen. The café is run on a not-for- profit basis by a committee and a 50 strong bank of volunteers. “The café was the brainchild of the chair of our committee Pauline Davis,” said Anna. “It’s great to share our building with the community around us.” See the advert on the left. • Special combined service on Sunday 8 May, 10.30am. Talk about life and Bible translation work in Albania, followed by bring and share lunch.

Please produce voucher to waiter at time of payment. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer/voucher. *50% discount applies to buffet only, 1 voucher per person.

Valid date --------------From: 01st MAY 2011

Until : 31th MAY 2011

Offer available on Sunday - Thursday only

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