Community

By Group Editor Jamie Hill

Democracy. We all want it but when it comes to the crunch there's a good proportion of us who just shrug our shoulders say 'meh' and carry on doing whatever we were doing before whether it's tending the allotment or trying to glean the latest celebrity gossip from Heat magazine.

And that is your democratic right to decide not to have your say. We don't have a system in this country like Australia where voting is mandatory. It would probably be a very different political landscape if that was the case.

But those same people who decide not to vote are not exactly in a great position to moan about whatever the outcome is after the fact. They can moan but it carries less weight than someone who actually made an effort to get off their couch to change the outcome.

Anyway, it's parish council election time across Swindon on Thursday 4 May.

Normally, when it comes to parish elections, apathy does seem to be, unfortunately, the name of the game but I would urge you all to take part as for many of us in Swindon it will be the first time that these parish council elections actually ever take place and if ever there was an open field this would be it.

The formation of these parishes has been controversial to say the least with some people against them in principle as they have been foisted upon us in the name of Swindon Borough Council cutting costs leaving us all with increased council tax bills. But they are here now so we should all have our say and make our voices heard.

jamie@swindonlink.com

ADVERTISING Call 01793 781502 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com

Closing date for June adverts and editorial: 10 May June edition published: 26 May Group Editor: Jamie Hill Chief Reporter: Ben Fitzgerald Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Mike Barham

Sales Admin: Sue Roberts Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley

Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com

Positive Media Group Limited, Unit 3, Arclite House, Century Road, Swindon SN5 5YN T: 01793 744677 E: publisher@swindonlink.com Our Statistics Est. Readership of 100,000 in print & c.20,000 monthly online visitors. Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £57.

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. Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.

Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford

The Spirit of Swindon: Sport, media and culture: Creating opportunity for rest and play

By Tom Wilkes of Spirit of Swindon Poverty, health and education have all featured in our articles so far. The connection between these topics and economic inequality seems clear enough but the link with sport, media and culture is less obvious.

Participation in sport and culture, both recreational activities, can provide for physical, emotional, mental and spiritual refreshment and stimulation, distinct from the working and home environments.

Approximately 35% of people in Swindon participate in sport at least once a week, figures comparable to the national average, with disabled people and those from lower-socio-economic backgrounds tending to be less active. While council services try to signpost residents on to community based sport and the facilities available, the way many live their lives, for example working unsociable hours or on shifts, makes them less likely to take part in sport during their resting periods.

The likelihood of engaging in recreation through culture and sport is linked to education, health and opportunity. The more highly educated a person is, and the higher their income, the more likely they are to participate in active recreation; a link between education and culture recognised and used nationally. As noted in April’s Link, Swindon scores particularly poorly on this criteria.

Nevertheless, on the positive side, Swindon residents make greater use of our museums, arts, sports and heritage assets than the average for England even though the town has fewer of them than the national average. This signals a demand for greater provision, one which the proposal for a new Swindon Museum and Art Gallery will meet. The annual Literature Festival is a good example of an event that offers many opportunities for participation in cultural activities of various forms.

Where does media fit in to this picture? Politically or commercially biased agendas have taken over tracts of the media as revenue streams have been declining. Across the Atlantic we have seen how one-sided media channels can feed division and confirm prejudices. In the UK, and here in Swindon, this is less prevalent but still present. Locally, newspapers and magazines are at their best when they act as ‘good neighbours to the town’, providing fair, balanced and accurate coverage for their communities. Part of this involves raising uncomfortable issues and asking difficult questions, not as a way of gaining listeners or readers but to serve the common good. The factors underlying economic inequality are complex and multiple but there are ways of addressing them. Spirit of Swindon recognises that economic inequality is societal and therefore political, however ideological dynamics sometimes prevent us from facing its challenges. Local Authorities across England have sought to meet increasing costs and financial restraints by selling assets which have affected sport and culture at the ‘grass roots’ level. Although Swindon has, until recently, been better placed than many parts of the country, the number of people employed in the arts, entertainment and recreation sector in Swindon has fallen by 30% over a five year period.

What one thing you can do this month (apart from participating in sport and buying a ticket for a Lit Festival event) is to read around each topic and ask awkward questions. Actively seeking alternative voices can be difficult but also rewarding and can encourage all of us to transcend party ideology.

Spirit of Swindon has emerged from a gathering of people who want to raise consciousness of the impact of economic inequality and help Swindon offer a lead to other towns and cities in the UK. We are indebted in this article to: Dave Bell – Chair Swindon Sports Forum, Tom Frost – Senior Public Health Intelligence Analyst, the KLOE report produced by Phil Back in 2013 and views from Jamie Hill – Link Editor. swindonlink.com n May 2017 3

Arrr you ready for Town Centre Pirate Fest?

Batten down the hatches as Swindon Town Centre will be buzzing with free entertainment and activities for all the family to enjoy next month – inspired by all things pirates.

From Friday 2 through to Sunday 4 June the town centre will host a Pirate Fest spectacular to coincide with the launch of the new Pirates of the Caribbean film ‘Dead Men Tell No Tales’ which opens in cinemas at the end of May.

There will be an abundance of free activities designed especially for families. Wharf Green will be transformed into Captain Hook’s Pirate Ship zone, featuring live music and dance, children’s entertainment, competitions and prizes. Activities will include apple bobbing, pirate limbo, funfair rides and free face painting will be available across the town including the Parade, the Brunel Shopping Centre and Regent Circus.

Visitors will also be able to take advantage of lunchtime offers from town centre businesses and hunt for golden treasure in the pirate treasure hunt. Plus, there will be opportunities to meet all your favourite Peter Pan characters across the town centre.

The pirates event, which is taking place during school half-term, is the result of partnership working between The Brunel Centre, inSwindon BID Company, The Parade and Regent Circus.

For more information please visit swindontowncentre.co.uk

Artist's impression of the Forward Swindon plans for the Railway Village

An ambitious plan to breathe new life into Swindon’s ailing town centre has been unveiled by Forward Swindon.

The organisation has been charged with delivering the Swindon Borough Council Town Centre Masterplan which was published by the Council in 2013.

A key challenge – according to Forward Swindon – is to break the cycle of ‘nothing happening’. It argues that potential investors see Swindon as ‘risky’ and are put off by uncertainty surrounding the future development of the town centre. Forward Swindon propose a series of connected schemes within an ‘arc of opportunity’ running north-east from the Railway Heritage Quarter to the station and south east along Fleming Way.

A re-organisation of pedestrian and vehicle traffic is also seen as key to the development of the area. Areas earmarked for development include the Railway Village, the station approach and Kimmerfields.

Paul Chamberlain, director of New Partnerships explained: “A key objective of the Delivery Plan is to change investors’ perceptions, through a series of projects that will act as a catalyst for future investment in the area.

“Yes, there have been commercial sensitivities, but we also wanted to be ready to emphasise delivery – to have things to point to. We know there have been too many empty promises.”

The blueprint has been under wraps for commercial reasons, whilst Forward Swindon concluded a number of land deals on behalf of the council. Full details of the proposed plans can be found via:

www.forwardswindon.co.uk

MEADOWPARK School and Nursery

Visitors warmly welcomed

Nursery 0 - 4 years Inspirational Education Childcare with Love for Boys and Girls 0 - 11 years

School 4 - 11 years “Pupils make outstanding progress ... owing to outstanding teaching.”

Outstanding in EVERY category!

01793 752600 meadowparkschool.co.uk

CYCLE REPAIRS FREE collection & delivery from home or work The BIKE DOCTOR

Over 35 years experience

Servicing and repairs We also sell parts & accessories www.bikedoctorswindon.co.uk

For fast, friendly service, call Phil Mitchell: 874873 day or evening or 07850 650956 (mobile) when you purchase a Funeral Plan with Hillier Funeral Service. Valid until 31-5-17. Please quote LINK2 to claim your discount.

Buy a conservatory and get an eco-friendly room

Experts in home improvement With over 50 years experience we can project manage your new conservatory from start to finish, creating an additional room - tailor made to suit your needs all year round.

SALE WITH FREE SCATTER CUSHIONS

Market leaders in conservatory technology

Receive up to £2,000 Free*

towards any combination of: • Cane, Rattan or

Laminated Wood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters • Lights

*Terms and conditions apply

Conservatory Furniture Collection Huge range of Cane, Rattan, Laminated wood combinations New fabrics available Free local delivery Huge new show unit now open with Livin roof and new ULTRA blue glass roof for all year round comfort

PREMIER FLOORING CARPETS - VINYLS - LAMINATES

THE PREMIER SERVICE GUARANTEED TO SAVE YOU MONEY

FREE uplifting and disposal of your existing flooring FREE moving of furniture NO Hidden extras or delivery charges

All products and installation guaranteed Public Liability Insured

CALL STEVEN WALDRON TEL 01793 320974 MOB 07812 855250

Premier.flooring@ymail.com

Unit 35 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ HOME SELECTION WE COME TO YOU

NO PRESSURE SALES NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS CARRIED OUT IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME AT A TIME THAT SUITS YOU FAMILY RUN BUSINESS THAT DELIVERS QUALITY SERVICE AND WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN INSTALLATION AND PRODUCT SALES

ALL YEAR ROUND COMPETITIVE PRICES AND EXCELLENT SERVICE. IT’S WHY OUR CUSTOMERS RETURN TO US TIME AND TIME AGAIN! Valuation Day opportunity with Thomas Plant TV expert on Flog It! The Antiques Road Trip & Bargain Hunt

Bring along your portable items for a FREE valuation with Thomas, OR members of his team from Special Auction Services

Monday 8th May 10am to 3.30pm Jury’s Inn, Fleming Way, Swindon SN1 2NG

Valuations are by appointment only.

To arrange a time, please call 01635 580595 or contact us via www.specialauctionservices.com

Big hearted Amy Heron asked friends to help her celebrate her 7th birthday by donating Easter Eggs to a children’s charity.

The Tadpole Farm pupil, who celebrated her birthday on 12 March, decided to give away her haul of 24 eggs to the Memory Makers project to help those less fortunate than herself.

She said: “I wanted to give Easter eggs to people who go to Memory Makers. If they don’t have any chocolate eggs at Easter they won’t be very happy.

“Donating the eggs makes me feel good and I hope they will make people happy.”

She added that because she enjoys thinking of others she wants to become a nurse when she grows up.

Amy’s mum Fiona said: “All the children were very keen to follow her idea and all the parents were happy to support it. I’m really proud of her.”

Memory Makers, which has been running for three years, supports young people aged from 9-12 who have experienced some form of trauma in their lives. The charity Freshbrook Community Centre will be turned into a pop-up shop on Saturday 20 May with all profits going to the British Heart Foundation, all thanks to one seven year old boy with big ideas.

Kai Lewis spotted a television advert by the British Heart Foundation calling for donations towards helping children with holes in their hearts and decided he wanted to do something about it.

Kai asked parents Ross and Henrietta if he could set up a shop to sell items and raise money for

Birthday girl Amy Heron who asked for donations to Memory Makers

works hand in hand with the youth charity SMASH.

Smash Trustee Lyn Hartman explained: “We aim to create positive memories - it can be something very simple like going on a walk and having a picnic. Remembering good times can the cause, using the Freshbrook Community Centre where his father is the caretaker.

Henrietta said: "Kai has been so excited as all the generous donations have come in from across the town. The response via Facebook and from word of mouth has just been amazing. Our house is completely full of things we need to sell on the day now! "We are so proud of Kai for coming up with the idea all on his own and wanting to do something for these children who rely on provide a child with the confidence to face their future positively.”

Memory Makers is currently looking for adult mentors to help continue its work.

For information email memory. makers@smashyouthproject.co.uk

Pop-up shop in Freshbrook to aid British Heart Foundation

Seven year old Kai Lewis with some of the donated items to be sold on 20 May for the British Heart Foundation

or call 01793 729748. the British Heart Foundation and all their hard work. Kai is already planning another event after the pop up shop!"

The event will run from 3pm on Saturday 20 May, and you will still be able to donate items up until 19 May, or alternatively bring along donations to sell on the day alongside Kai's sizeable amount of donated stock.

If you wish to follow Kai's fundraising, head to: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Kai-Lewis

U3A groups growing

Swindon U3A is growing, with 150 different groups and membership approaching 2,000.

New groups include Poetry Appreciation - with members meeting every two weeks on Tuesday mornings at Gorse Hill Community Centre. Details from Jenny Buttler 01793671574

The Current Affairs group meets fortnightly on a Thursday afternoon at Eastcott Hill CC in Savernake Street. Contact Dave Todd on 07881785222. Pilates Group 2 is now up and running weekly on Friday mornings at Western Community Centre. Sessions are led by a fully qualified teacher. Contact Jane Caudwell on 01793 528015

Italian for Beginners 2 meets on Fridays at Lawn Community Centre. Group organiser Joy Oakley can be contacted on 07775596430

Craft without Rules meets in Highworth on Friday afternoons. More details from Diana Bores on 01793766266.

For further details about U3A call 01793 614629 or e mail; office@swindonu3a.org.uk.

New CEO appointed

Peter Boucher has been appointed as the new CEO at Excalibur Communications.

After almost two decades at Excalibur Communications, James Phipps has become Executive Chairman, with Peter Boucher now stepping up as CEO of the communications and IT provider.

During the past seven years, Excalibur has almost doubled in size, moving to Swindon’s prestigious Arclite House, recently becoming a Sunday Times Top 100 Company and a Vodafone Total Communications Partner, as well as maintaining its position as a Microsoft Gold Partner.

Building on success

Construction firm Beard, which has offices in Swindon, has reported record results and £112m order book.

The family-owned firm, which celebrates its 125th business anniversary this year, reported a 41 per cent leap in its pre-tax profits for the period, up from £2.9 million in 2015 to £4 million.

Residents of Swindon's newly parished areas will head to the polls on 4 May to decide on their new parish councillors.

Voters in all of the newly parished areas of the town should have received their polling cards with details on how and where to vote. If you have yet to receive your polling card, call 01793 464601 or contact: elecreg@swindon.gov.uk.

The statutory minimum number of parish councillors for each area is five - there is no maximum number. The number of parish councillors in existing parishes in Swindon range from five to 23.

Anyone wishing to vote but is unable to get to a polling station on 4 May can request a postal vote.

The Council decided in November 2016 to create four new parishes in Swindon. The decision means that 64,000 properties are now in a parished area for the first time. Parish councils are already wellestablished in other areas of the Borough and have provided local services for the residents there for many years. Shadow parish councils have been overseeing the transfer of some of these services such as grass cutting over the past few Controversial plans to create a renewable energy centre at Keypoint in South Marston will go under the spotlight at a special planning meeting next month.

The meeting, attended by Developers Rolton Kilbride and members of the SKIP (Stop Keypoint Incinerator Project) campaign group, will be held at the Wyvern Theatre at 6.30pm on May 16.

Rolton Kilbride applied last June for permission to build a ‘gasification plant’ which would process 150,000 tonnes of domestic waste a year. The developers say the plant will provide a safe and clean way of generating renewable energy from treated household waste; produce energy that can be used by nearby businesses and help cut operating costs; reduce greenhouse gas emissions

The proposal has run into strong opposition. Local residents formed the SKIP campaign and organised a petition against the proposal, which gathered more than 3,000 signatures.

More than 100 objections have been sent to the planning department with objectors citing months.

However, the new parish system has not been introduced without objection. A very vocal element in the public gallery during the council meeting that saw the plans voted through to set up the new parishes, as well as calls from the Labour group calling the whole process a “debacle” have been key flash points in the implementation of this new layer of governance.

The four new parishes are West Swindon, Central Swindon North, and Central Swindon South, all of which are in previously unparished areas, while a new St Andrews Parish has been created from part of the current Blunsdon St Andrew Parish. In addition, the existing Parish of Nythe has been extended to include Eldene and Liden.

Residents who still remain unsure which parished area they live in can use an online postcode checker by heading to: swindon.gov.uk/parishes

Swindon Link has offered all prospective councillors in the newly parished areas a chance to have their voices heard via our website. To see who is running in your area, head to:

Councillors campaigning against the new parishes at the decisive full Borough Council session in November 2016

Controversial incinerator plans in spotlight

www.swindonlink.com

SKIP protesters make their voices heard

the impact of HGV traffic and the potential for pollution in the area, particularly should the plant malfunction.

SKIP chairman, Robert Ayres, said: “From looking at their submissions so far I do not feel the developers have adequately addressed all the concerns that have been raised.”

The SKIP group claim there are errors and inconsistencies in the developers’ greenhouse gas calculations that still need to be resolved.

The planning meeting will take place at 6.30pm on May 16.

For more information see the SKIP website at www.skip2016.com. People can also send an e-mail to stopkeypoint@gmail.com to keep informed of the campaign.

Information about the application can be found on the Rolton Kilbride at www.keypointswindonenergy. co.uk and the developer can be contacted at info@ keypointswindonenergy.co.uk.

Swindon property development boom is great for buyers

It’s an exciting time for the development of Swindon with the town seeing a huge increase in the building of new homes in recent years with thousands of new properties that are earmarked for the town.

Most recently, plans have been given the go-ahead to create a development of 147 flats and 293 houses as the second stage of a development at a site near Marlborough Lane.

Construction on the site, which will include a mix of two, three and four bedroomed homes, flats and affordable housing, is set to begin in the summer and the first residents are set to move in next spring.

Other developments around the town include the ambitious 2,000 home Tadpole Gate project on a 179 hectare site to the north of Swindon, near Blunsdon. Quality developments: some of the properties on sale at Tadpole Garden Village

Crest Nicholson, David Nicholson the Great Western Hospital. developers on these new projects for an absolutely luxurious and Bovis Homes are among the But by far the largest of the and am proud that new house standard of living. Other developers companies involved in the on-going all the new building projects builders such as Taylor Wimpey, put eco-credentials first, with solar project. Building on a greenfield in Swindon is the New Eastern Redrow, Linden and Barratts are panels, triple glazing and more, to site at the edge of Swindon, the Villages development - with a building their beautiful homes in build the houses of tomorrow. development promises panoramic total site area of 724 hectares, it North Swindon. “We live in wonderfully exciting views of where the Wiltshire Downs represents the largest of Swindon’s “For me, it’s about the differences times in Swindon, that really does meet the Cotswolds. strategic growth areas. It will between the developments that have something for everyone.

Characterised by tree-lined comprise 8,000 homes, a new makes it so exciting, we are Downsizers looking for views avenues, large front and rear district centre, and 40 hectares currently selling and working of rolling hills, first time buyers gardens and generous on-plot of employment and associated closely with Hills Homes in looking for boutique hotel style en parking; Tadpole Garden Village health, retail, education and leisure Blunsdon, which offers a cross mix suites and families wanting more will also boast a local centre for its facilities which should be complete of homes. space, bigger gardens, room to just community, retail and convenience by 2026. “Take the Tadpole Garden Village run – Swindon has it all – and the facilities. One of Swindon’s leading estate development, with allotments, careers from blue chip companies

The site includes a primary school, agents Atwell Martin, has opened children’s play areas and acres of locally that make buying the ideal play areas, pedestrian and cycle a new office in North Swindon in parkland that make the area such a home a reality. networks, mature and managed response to the anticipated demand draw for families not only looking "Every day I see people making hedgerows, ponds and resident- in the town as a dynamic and for a new home, but looking for the move from Reading, Newbury only private allotments. exciting place to live. excellent quality of life. and the M4 corridor choosing value

Properties are also now available Chris Pomphrey, managing Smaller villages, with brownfield for money property that suits their on the 890 home Badbury Park partner of Atwell Martin said: sites are seeing developments of commutes here in Swindon.” development, built by developer “I am completely buzzing with just four or five houses that have Visit www.atwellmartin.co.uk Redrow, between Coate Water and the opportunity to work with mind-blowingly good specifications today if you are thinking of moving.

When selling, it pays to make a good first impression

When it comes to selling a home - it's worth bearing in mind that a little hard work can reap rewards.

One of two directors of Carrington's Estate Agents Paul Nicholls explained that if you spend £1,000, it could add £10,000 to the value of your home.

Paul advises: "Some of these things are just common sense. The first thing I would say to people is to de-clutter. The reason why most people want to move is because the are looking for more living space. If they can see that your home can offer that, they are more likely to buy. "Just get rid of those bits and pieces that don't need to be there. In some cases, it might be worth putting some of your things into storage."

He added that as well as thinking about the inside of your home, kerbside appeal is also vitally important. "Most people tend to make their minds up about a property in the first 30 or 40 seconds so it is important to create a good first impression with potential buyers."

Most house hunters like to see a blank canvas so that they can imagine putting their own stamp on the property. "Some people really like purple - but most people would prefer to view a home where all the rooms are white or magnolia."

He also advised against hiding anything. If you know something is wrong with your home, it is best to try and address this because it will only show up later in the surveys and potental buyers can then use this to bargain the price down."

Paul Nicholls and Keith Angell have run Carringtons Estate Agents, based on Swindon's Commercial Road, for 11 years. In that time they have established a reputation as offering a personal, friendly and professional service to both buyer and seller. Carringtons can be contacted at www. carringtonsswindon.co.uk

Downsizing can be the key to becoming mortgage free

For many people in later life, downsizing offers a practical solution to their housing needs.

Helen Ford of Park Home Life explained that many people find, perhaps after their children have left home, that their home is no longer suitable for their needs. "By releasing some of the value of their homes, our customers might just find that they are able to live mortgage free, with more money available to help them live life to the full."

She explained that a new development at Blunsdon Abbey Park in north Swindon is offering the chance for customers to enjoy living in a modern single-storey home, set within a friendly over-50s community. "This can be a real opportunity for people who think that it might be difficult for them to move home. It's just a matter of reorganising their finances and that's something that we are able to help with."

Blunsdon Abbey Park is situated just North of Swindon on the edge of the picturesque Cotswolds nestled in the conservation area of Blunsdon St Andrew. The park is meticulously maintained and delightfully landscaped to fit in with the simple beauty of the Abbey.

The park is situated within the stunning historic grounds of Blunsdon Abbey House, amongst the remains of the original building which burnt down in 1904, with fantastic views over-looking Swindon towards the hills of Liddington Castle.

For more information log on to www. parkhomelife.com or call 01793 722100.

Have you considered building your own home?

Make your dreams a reality

Swindon’s National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) is hosting its popular ‘National Self Build & Renovation Show’ this month. The event is perfect for anyone interested in extending or improving their home or if you are considering building a brand new property.

Three and a half thousand visitors attended January’s show which was officially opened by Martin Roberts, longstanding presenter of the BBC’s ‘Homes Under the Hammer’ and recent survivor of the Celebrity Jungle.

The show offers a packed three days of live demonstrations, free seminars and case studies along with an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their advice and knowledge.

From the latest eco technologies and beautiful doors & windows to plot finding and building regulations, the free talks allow newcomers and skilled professionals alike to pick up a wealth of valuable information.

Over 200 exhibitors will showcase their latest products and technologies, with experienced representatives on hand to demonstrate, answer questions and offer their professional advice.

The Spring Show is held at the NSBRC on Junction 16 of the M4, and is an exciting, friendly and inspirational event. It’s the ideal opportunity to discover how the concept of ‘self building’ your own home works or to simply explore options for injecting new life into your existing home.

Show highlights: • Over 20 seminars, live demonstrations, case studies & panel debates each day • View the stunning Potton Show Home and see its gorgeous new kitchen • Guided tours of the NSBRC’s fantastic life-size educational exhibits • FREE self build course taster sessions • 1:1 Expert Advice • FREE Tickets and Parking

The Show is Friday 19 to Sunday 21 May with tickets £12 per adult. Link readers can book FREE tickets at www.nsbrc.co.uk Use booking code: Link Magazine

Refresh your Kitchen this Spring

Community News Swindon 105.5 Community Radio celebrates ninth birthday with new studio opening - Presenter entered for NY Award

Above L-R - Swindon 105.5 Manager Shirley Ludford, plaque creator Colin Hatch and Mayor of Swindon Cllr Eric Shaw (Right) Presenter Dave Woods

Swindon 105.5 celebrated nine years since bringing its regionally unique service to the town with the launch of the Daniel Gooch Studio at Liden Library on 23 March.

The Station celebrated the anniversary with the launch of its Training Studio, which will be known as the Daniel Gooch Studio with a packed crowd hearing from station volunteers, North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson, Covingham and Dorcan Ward Councillor Kevin Parry and the Mayor of Swindon, Cllr Eric Shaw.

A specially made plaque was unveiled by the Mayor and creator Colin Hatch, which now sits on the Akers Way has been closed between St Mary’s Church roundabout and Cheney Manor industrial estate for reconstruction work.

This initial phase of the £900,000 scheme is set to last six weeks and the remainder of Akers Way from Purton Road to the roundabout with Cheney Manor industrial estate will remain open during this phase.

The work aims to address problems with the deteriorating concrete base of the road by modifying the concrete road base slabs and adding door to the studio, which will also be shared by the newly formed Swindon 105.5 Community Music Project as a recording base for their service users.

Shirley Ludford, Station Manager, said: “Swindon 105.5 has seen thousands of people of all ages and abilities coming in to the station during the past 9 years, seeing great personal achievements. Finalising our Training Studio and naming it as the “Daniel Gooch Studio” is a very fitting way of celebrating this anniversary, linking with “Swindon 175” and the town we serve."

The celebrations continued into a thicker road surfacing material layer on top.

It is hoped that the design will increase the flexibility of the road and provide a longer-lasting protective surface over the road structure below. The contractor will also be carrying out improvements to the parking along the road.

Traffic is now being diverted via Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Road, Darby Close and Cheney Manor Road. There will be no access to Akers Way from the residential April as it was announced that Swindon 105.5’s news presenter and chief reporter, Dave Woods hopes to represent the Liden based community radio station in New York later this year after entering one of the world’s most prestigious radio awards.

The New York Festivals’ International Radio Program Awards honours programming from stations, networks and producers internationally.

Dave’s entry, ‘Lydiard: Past, Present and Future’ broadcast last September, was a special edition of the regular daily morning

Traffic diverted as work begins on major revamp

programme ‘Roundabout Swindon’. section of Cheney Manor Road including Harvey Grove, Brooklands Avenue and Manor Gardens.

The second phase, set to last three weeks, will focus on a 200m stretch on the western section of Akers Way from the Purton Road Roundabout towards Nova Hreod Academy.

Regular updates on the road improvement scheme will be publicised through the Council’s fortnightly Highways News e-newsletter www.swindon.gov.uk/ newsletter

Trolley dash time

There is still time to enrol a team in the Brunel Trolley TT. The fundraising trolley dash around Swindon town centre will raise money for the Youth Adventure Trust - a Swindon based charity working with vulnerable young people from our community.

Taking place on Thursday 11 May the Trolley TT is a team event for groups of colleagues, friends or family. Teams set off from the Brunel Shopping Centre to visit as many of Swindon’s landmarks as possible in two hours. Entering a team costs £12 per person. Find out more at www.thebrunel.co.uk

Mystery train dates

A series of murder mysteries has been announced by Swindon and Cricklade Railway. Fridays, 16 June, 14 July, 1 September. Visitors begin their journey at the railway base in Blunsdon in 1915. Actors from RWB Players will tell the story, with a different plot each time. Mystery solvers are invited to adopt period dress. The £32 price includes a two-course hot buffet meal. Call 01793 771615 or email scr@gmx.co.uk.

Visit open gardens

West Swindon Open Gardens takes place on 24 and 25 June. Organised by Shaw Residents Association, they are currently looking for volunteers to open their gardens. This year the open gardens will be supporting SMASH (Swindon youth mentoring) and CALM (Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Movement). For more details visit www.shawresidents.org.uk/

opengardens Bluebell charity run

The Bluebell 10k run for Autism Awareness will take place on Sunday 14 May at 10am. The event starts at Nationwide Car Park, Pipers Way. Entrance costs £12 adults and kids run free. Entrants with autism and their carers get half price entry. Sponsorship greatly appreciated. www.dashswindon.com

Illustrated history

Andy Binks, the author of Up on Nob Hill - an illustrated history of Old Swindon will be giving a talk at Christ Church, Old Town on June 2 at 7.30pm. Entry costs £5.

Swindon milkman Gary Powell, is place in the community. one of only six milkmen to reach "I am thrilled to have been the semi-finals in the search for recognised as an ambassador for Milkman of the Year 2017. the industry, and for the passion I

Following in his father’s footsteps, have shown for the job throughout Gary began his deliveries straight my career. Being nominated means after leaving school in 1983 - and the world to me.” now he is in the running for the Chris Munn, Head of Marketing top spot after beating 1,200 rival at milk&more said, “We believe milkmen into the semi-finals. that our milkmen and women are

Gary was integral to their voted for by his customers in Gorse Hill, Calne, Pinehurst and Moredon. Such is his passion for I am over the moon. Being nominated means the world to me! , , communities and we’re thrilled at the response to the competition from our customers. "We constantly the job that for strive to provide the past six years he has visited his a friendly, trustworthy service and son’s school to speak about being a it’s thanks to milkmen like Gary milkman. that we are proud to continue this

He also enjoys getting to know his tradition.” customers and regularly goes above Customers can still order their and beyond to help them; putting milk and juice in glass bottles from milk in the fridge for customers who their local milkman or woman and struggle to do this themselves. they can also manage their account

Gary was delighted to have online and place, check or change made it so far in the competition. orders up to 9pm the night before He said, “I am over the moon, their next delivery. as a passionate believer in the For delivery details see www. importance of the milkman and his milkandmore.co.uk

Top of the morning: Gary has reached the Milkman of the year semi-finals

New free schools welcomed

Two new Swindon free schools have been approved by The Government but the number of school places needed in the town still needs to be addressed according to Swindon Borough Council.

The two new schools will be Abbey Farm Educate Together Primary School in North Swindon and Badbury Park Primary School in South Swindon.

This comes after applications for six free schools were submitted to The Government in the Autumn.

Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard said: “We are delighted to get two schools but we believe we still have some capacity issues to address in North Swindon and we will have to sit down and see how the numbers match up.

“The council has a statutory responsibility to ensure there is enough school places for young people. It can be very difficult these days because there is a high demand for places.

“Since 2004 the Conservative Administration has invested heavily in new schools across the Borough to replace the leaking, crumbling inadequate buildings we inherited.

“We haven’t had feedback about why Great Western Academy was turned down so we don’t fully understand why two were a success and one wasn’t. We would like to understand for any future bids that go in by providers to ensure they are a success.”

The Labour Group Shadow Lead for Education, Cllr Carol Shelley, said: “I welcome government investment for new schools in areas where they are needed and I congratulate the academy trusts on their successful bids.

“However it is worrying that The Government has turned down another free school in an area that is again needed. This goes to the heart of why Labour is against the government’s Free Schools programme. Rather than solely focussing on delivering school places in areas where they’re needed, it’s a popularity contest based on factors not exclusively related to increasing school places."

Rendezvous Special For Two 1/4 Aromatic Crispy Duck OR Barbecue Ribs, Crispy Seaweed & Mini Vegetable Spring Rolls Choose 3 Dishes of your choice from our selection: Sweet & Sour Chicken (HK Style) Beef with Green Peppers in Black Bean Sauce Prawns with Ginger & Spring Onions Spicy Salt & Garlic Chicken Lemon Chicken Chicken Curry Chicken Chow Mein Satay Roast Pork HHH Egg Fried Rice, Prawn Crackers & Fortune Cookies £23.88 (Menu price £31.80) Special meal cannot be changed • Available from 3rd January 2017 Tel: 01793 703388 Unit 2 Elstree Way, Abbey Meads SN25 4YX DELIVERY OR TAKE AWAY OPEN: Sun - Thur 4.45pm - 10.30pm; Fri & Sat 4.45pm - 11.15pm Last orders for delivery 15 minutes before closing time. Open every Bank Holiday Licenced to sell and deliver wine and beer See our full menu at: www.rendezvous.uk.net

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

We're making learning fun

Moredon Primary and Nursery School have had a term packed with fun, excitement and valuable lessons.

‘People Who Help Us’ has been part of a recent focus this term for the nursery children. They’ve been on outings to various places and have been lucky enough to have visits from many different people.

Their first visitor was a police officer, she explained how her job involved keeping everybody safe and showed the children her uniform and badge. The following week the children had the chance to dress up in firefighter suits. When Davina Sparks from the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service came in - she spoke about the serious dangers of playing with fire. A nurse was the next exciting visitor, who taught the children how to find their pulse and listen to their heartbeat. A particularly enjoyable activity the children took part in this term was a recycling workshop, carried out by Pam Jones from Swindon Borough Council.

The children learned about why we use different types of bins for different types of rubbish. The workshop proved to be a valuable lesson, as on a local walk to the Manor Garden Centre the children were disappointed to spot so much litter down the pathways. Whilst at the Garden Centre, the children discovered all different types of plants and bought some to help brighten up the outside of the nursery.

The last visit the children made was to the local post office, where they bought stamps and posted Mother’s Day cards.

This term has been really busy for the children, but has been packed with fun experiences and lessons, provided at Moredon Primary and Nursery School. The ‘outstanding’ nursery, led by a qualified teacher, has space for up to 52 children a year, offering 15 hours a week in either morning or afternoon sessions.

If you are interested in registering your child for Nursery to start in September 2017 then do not hesitate to contact Moredon Primary and Nursery School on 01793 600344.

Youngsters took part in a rich variety of learning experiences

Are you at work all day? Going away? Or just too busy? The National Pet Care Company Dog holidays with host families, Cat Care, Pet Feeding

The Complete Pet Service Pet Taxi/Ambulance

Tel: 07496 855694 info@swindondistrict.animalsathome.co.uk www.animalsathome.co.uk/swindon-district Winners of the ninth annual Pride of Swindon award have been honoured with a plaque which will be permanently displayed at Swindon Central Library. The award honours those who contribute to the community. The individual winners were:

Alan Butler: RunVember charity running group organiser.

Clare Stow: For her work with local charities including the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group.

Noreen Vitale: Catering manager for the Christmas Care shelter.

Caroline Watson: for supporting elderly people.

Kathleen Wyatt: for her work with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Joan White: For her work supporting Pinehurst Netball Club

Roy Dowling: For his work as a volunteer benefits advisor for Swindon Carers Centre

Oscar Moulding: Nine year old Oscar raised money for a friend to pay for a new wheelchair in Bosnia

John Popowicz: For his service with Wiltshire Fire Service.

Pat Bennett: For her work to establish the Estelle school of dance.

Mayor Eric Shaw unveils the plaque with judges Shirley Ludford and Tony Martin

Team award winners were:

Colin Crook and Jacqui Collins

for their conservation work.

Lorraine Parker and Pippa Watts

for their work with the social team at Clarence House.

The Swindon Lagoons Volunteer

Group for their conservation work.

The Harbour Project: for their work with refugees.

Prime Theatre for supporting young people.

The Witness Service for providing support to people attending court.

A posthumous award was collected by Josephine on behalf of her father Kevin Logan, who was honoured for his work of spreading Prostate Cancer awareness setting up The Loganberry Trust charity to continue the work.

Trustees behind Swindon’s proposed £22m art gallery and museum project attempted to steady the ship following the shock resignation of director Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker for “personal reasons”.

Before a packed meeting at New College’s Phoenix Theatre, Robert Hiscox, Chairman of Trustees, reminded the audience of the motivation behind the scheme and the many benefits it would bring to the town. "If you build a beautiful building here, it really will make a measurable difference. "This isn't just a place to hang art and display collections, I seriously believe it will give a throbbing heart to Swindon that you can all be proud of."

He said that the development would have a considerable impact on the rest of the town, attracting new investment in shops, restaurants and cafes.

His passion was echoed by Mike Pringle of the Richard Jefferies Museum who urged the people of the town to look beyond the town’s railway heritage and towards the future: "We have one chance to save our museum, it's about a wider view of Swindon's culture and Volunteers provide vital support to organisations in Swindon and the people they are working to support. Do you enjoy the company of older people? The Milestones Trust- Abbey House in North Swindon are looking for volunteers to befriend their residents and share interests with them. Maybe you enjoy games such as chess or bridge, enjoy a chat over a cuppa or sharing the news. This is a very flexible role both in time commitment and when you can help. Enjoy meeting and greeting people? Citizens Advice Swindon are looking for receptionists for their services in Swindon. You will be welcoming clients of the service, putting them at their ease as well as helping with admin duties. This role is ideal for someone who can make a regular commitment. Enjoy meeting people and making them feel welcome? SWADS are looking for reception volunteers to meet and greet and

Former SMAG director Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker with a model of the proposed new art gallery

giving a new impression of who we are."

Among the business leaders present at the meeting was Excalibur's James Phipps who threw his weight behind the plan: “We won't be here in five to ten years if this project and the town centre regeneration doesn't happen," he said.

At the end of the presentation around 90 per cent of a show of hands supported the new build.

After the event, the Chair of the make refreshments for people using their therapeutic services. Are you fascinated by old computers and gaming? The Museum of Computing, which is open on a Friday and Saturday has a range of roles on offer including helping with shop, reception, admin and social media or helping with children’s clubs. Do you want to help children and families? The Family Service has a range of roles to assist their work with families needing extra support including befriending, individual family support, helping with the crèche, or driving. To find out how you can get involved in these or any of the many other volunteering opportunities please contact Volunteer Centre Swindon on 01793 420557 or email info@ swindonvolunteers.org.uk . We are at 1 John Street, Swindon and we would love to see you between 11am -3pm Monday to Friday. You can also find these at the Do-it Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust, Robert Hiscox, said:

“We had a lively debate, and by the end of that it was clear that there is a huge amount of passion locally for Swindon to have this new, iconic museum and art gallery in the town centre. "More than 140 people from across the town attended and just seven people voted against the proposal.

“There was considerable enthusiasm in the room for The great and the good of the town’s business community turned out on Thursday 6 April for a Switch On To Swindon networking breakfast.

Munching on bacon baps and drinking coffee, the attendees heard from several speakers including Jenny Groves, the newly appointed chair of The Swindon Place Board, the private sector-led body that is driving the Switch On To Swindon campaign.

Switch On To Swindon is driven by local businesses and community groups to support and deliver the changes they want to see. The campaign is based on similar initiatives from across the country that have already brought in significant investment for their regions, including Doncaster and the project, as people began to appreciate what it will mean for Swindon, and many people came to us afterwards to ask what they could do to help make it happen. This is a very exciting time for Swindon indeed.”

SBC has committed £5m of capital funding and had secured a £1.3m contribution from the Local Enterprise Partnership.

The SMAG Trust plans to submit a £10m bid to the Heritage Lottery

website at https://do-it.org

Ambassadors come out in force for Switch On To Swindon

Fund in November. Coventry.

The breakfast event, which took place at The National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) was attended by ambassadors, who are community-minded and business people who have signed up to support the campaign.

Other speakers included estate agent Richard James, Kris Talikowski who runs The Core juice bar in Old Town and Harvey Fremlin, one of the employee-owners of NSBRC.

Switch On To Swindon is looking for more Ambassadors from all ranges of business and community organisations to join the campaign to show people inside and outside of Swindon what the town has to offer.

For more information visit www. switchontoswindon.com swindonlink.com n May 2017 19