November 2016 South East Swindon Link

No 3 November 2016

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 100,000

South and East Swindon Edition

Welcome to Bohemian Old Town p10

Community: P2-16

Swindon Wide: P17-24

Sport & Leisure: P25-27

Services: P28-29

Plus

Win ÂŁ100 of LED lighting with NSBRC p12 Puzzle: P30

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

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Community News

Call for caring Christmas volunteers to help run shelter over festive period Swindon Christmas Care will again provide temporary shelter for homeless and lonely people and those in need from Christmas Eve until 11am on Wednesday 28 December at a new venue, Buckhurst Park Community Centre, Burghley Close, Walcot, Swindon SN3 3BS. Volunteers and shift leaders are required to help run the shelter.

Preparation meetings take place at St Joseph’s Catholic College, Ocotal Way SN3 3LR at 7.30pm on Wednesday 16 November and Thursday 24 November.

Food, bedding, clothing, toiletries and cash are also needed.

For more information visit: www.christmascare.co.uk

Panto star Ryan Thomas announced to turn on Swindon’s Christmas Lights inSwindon BID Christmas Lights Switch On will move this year from the traditional Thursday night to a weekend of free activities on 19 and 20 November.

Swindon’s Enchanted Christmas will launch on Saturday 19 November from 11am.

The Main Stage in Wharf Green will be live from 5:15pm.

Coronation Street star Ryan Thomas, who is starring in this year’s Wyvern Theatre pantomime Cinderella, will switch on the town centre lights at 6pm, illuminating the town centre.

Ryan has played Jason Grimshaw in the long-running soap since 2000 and he won Rear of the Year in 2008.

This will be followed by a dramatic firework display (subject to weather conditions), and performance from X-Factor winner Ben Haenow.

On Sunday 20 November the main

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Wyvern Panto star Ryan Thomas

stage will be live from 12pm with the amazing Britain’s Got Talent dance sensations Boogie Storm.

There will be a whole host of free activities for all the family to enjoy

Last year’s packed town centre Christmas lights switch-on

and to add a little oomph to the celebrations this year, inSwindon will be holding a lantern procession where schools and colleges will be invited to join in the spectacular

display.

To stay up to date on events in the town centre during the festive period, visit: www.swindontowncentre.co.uk

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News Proud partner of

Director: James Phipps Executive Chairman: Julian Barlow Group Editor: Jamie Hill Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Mike Barham Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley Photography: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

A brand new website for Swindon For the past 38 years Swindon Link has been at the forefront of community news with its printed monthly magazine.

As part of this we have at the same time strived to create a website that reflects the magazine - letting people know about the news that is important to them.

As part of this and after months of work and consultation we are now ready to unveil our brand new and improved website which we are sure will be a welcome addition to the town’s diverse media.

The website will still provide you with all the news and opinion that you get right now but will ensure The Link’s presence as the glue that

binds communities together for many years to come.

Group editor Jamie Hill said: “Swindon Link has always had a very strong online presence and is one of the most popular ways that people now get the news in this town.

“We are very proud of our new website. It is modern, looks great and has all the functionality of our old website but now enables readers to search for different types of news stories from education to sport.

“You will also be able to read the digital version of the magazine online.” www.swindonlink.com

Closing date for December adverts and editorial: 9 November December edition published: 25 November

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 75,000 in print & c.15,000 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

New bus routes include Tadpole Garden Village Stagecoach have announced that changes are coming to bus services 6, 8, 9, 10, 71, 80 and 81 with a new route, service 4 from Tadpole Garden Village to the town centre.

The new route will run via St Andrew’s Ridge and Cricklade Road.

Buses will run every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday during the day.

Perfect for commuting or a little retail therapy.

New service 10 replaces services 8 and 9 between Freshbrook and the town centre and service 6 between Kingsdown and the town centre but with an improved frequency so

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

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that customers have a service up to every 10 minutes during the day.

Stagecoach will be offering free travel for a week on service 4 from 7 to 12 November to celebrate the new route. www.stagecoachbus.com

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01793 752600 meadowparkschool.co.uk swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News

Concerns over Old Town parking Now that proposals to renovate the Locarno building in Old Town have begun to sink in, questions are being raised by residents and local businesses regarding a parking solution for the new development.

With the proposals including a cinema, boutique hotel and a variety of shops and restaurants within and around the revamped Corn Exchange, the development team has been engaging in talks with the Old Town Business Association to try and find a solution to alleviate pressure on the areas already stretched car parks.

Kris Talikowski, owner of The Core juice bar on Devizes Road and member of the Old Town Business Association, said: “The developers have really engaged with the local business community on the subject of parking. We have discussed a solution on the Old Town Lawns area, and I think this could be a good option.

“I believe if we were to say the National Trust took over the Lawns area tomorrow, one of their first moves would be to make the area commericially viable. This would include utilising the old Manor House as some sort of cafe or tea room I expect, and bringing the

sunken gardens back into use. This would obviously require a car park.

“The Locarno team has offered all of these points as a basis to place a car park here, and if it’s done correctly could really benefit Old Town.”

On the other side, some local residents have balked at the idea of their green spaces being adapted and expect the proposed new traffic system around the Locarno to cause more disruption to Victoria Hill and the daily congestion on its mini roundabout.

Darren Simons, landlord of The Victoria pub, said: “Whilst we all know Old Town could do with some more parking, if the plan is to pedestrianise the roads around the Locarno, it will drive traffic along Devizes Road and down Victoria Road. Congestion is already bad enough along here without another option being taken away.”

Swindon Corn Exchange project director Steve Rosier said: “We have a process to follow before knowing if there will be a parking issue in Old Town. It is therefore premature to comment. When we have considered all options, and developed an idea, we can present a solution for public consultation.”

Above: The Locarno building and car park as it stands today. Below: The developers proposal for what the new Corn Exchange and surrounding area could become

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Community News

Waste and recycling collection changes Wichelstowe development news in Swindon to save almost £300k a year positively received by local businesses

Plans to make Swindon Borough Council’s kerbside waste and recycling service more efficient will come into force from 31 October.

Waste and recycling collections, as well as green bins, will remain fortnightly and blue bag collections will continue to operate weekly.

New routes devised by the council are expected to save £100,000 for the remainder of the current financial year and £287,000 for 2017-18, and have been scheduled to come into effect from the start of November to avoid the festive period.

Just over half of Swindon’s 97,000 households will see a change in the day their waste is collected. Every household in the borough will receive a letter from the council prior to the start of the new arrangements, which

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will outline whether they will be affected by the changes and, if so, provide information on future collection dates.

As changes to collections will be no more than three days from current arrangements, no interim collections will be scheduled.

However, crews will be in operation throughout the changeover to ensure any missed bins are emptied.

Residents are advised to put all their waste – refuse, plastics, recycling and green waste – out for 6.30am.

Cllr Keith Williams, cabinet member for StreetSmart, said: “These changes will ensure we provide the best service possible to residents and save valuable taxpayers’ money, which is hugely important to the Council in these financially challenging times.”

Waitrose in Wichelstowe will be at the heart of the new district centre

Businesses that have held firm through the uncertainty of the Wichelstowe development have welcomed news that a proposed district centre will begin to take shape at the start of next year.

The go-ahead for the creation of a high-quality heart to Wichelstowe, which will include schools, a pub/restaurant, and 350 new homes as well as a development for older people, was approved by Swindon Borough Council during October.

The new area will occupy the canalside close to the existing Waitrose supermarket to take advantage of significant interest from pub and restaurant operators, retailers and the providers of housing for older people.

The Diocese of Bristol has also

been successful in gaining funding for the delivery of a secondary school with a planned opening date of September 2018.

Jayne Leigh, manager of The Bayberry pub in East Wichel, said: “We have only been here four months but already we have been welcomed to this new community.

We would be very happy to see more people coming to this area as of course it means more potential customers.”

The cabinet also approved a budget of up to £750,000 for design and project team costs for the new district centre. The formation of a joint venture company with Barratt Developments to build over 3,000 homes in Wichelstowe, which was announced last year, is unaffected.

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News Council compromises on parishing boundaries Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet approved the final plans for the town’s new parishing boundaries at their meeting in October.

They were modified after a consulation. Critics have consistently argued against changes to specific boundaries between areas of Swindon and the financial implications of the council parishing proposals.

The latest version of maps show the South Swindon area proposed in August has been scrapped in favour of a much larger Central South Swindon parish covering six ward areas; Old Town, Central, Eastcott, Park South and joint wards of Walcot and Park North as well as Lawn and Badbury Park.

This means only three new parishes are now planned for Swindon, with one large parish covering all areas south of the railway line.

Nythe parish will still be asked to take on the areas of Eldene and Liden, whilst Blunsdon St Andrew parish will be split to form a new St Andrew Parish Council and Blunsdon Parish Council.

As Swindon Borough Council seeks to reduce their costs by 2020, parish councils will be

asked to take on services such as grass cutting and street cleaning, which could expand to include management of community centres and libraries. £3 million of resources are to be made available to these new authorities to act as transitional funding, although increases to precepts will probably still be a key financial talking point.

One of the main concerns in August was that the Central South Swindon parish would incur a much higher precept due to maintenance of the retail centres in the area. The council had been in talks with local business representatives in the town centre to secure a voluntary contribution of £400,000 to offset a potentially higher parish precept cost, but it appears this could not be agreed.

As such it has been proposed that Swindon Borough Council maintains its contract in the town centre for maintenance.

The council still have to approve existing borough councillors to be appointed to run the new shadow parish councils which will be actively taking on services from 1 April 2017.

The boundaries for Swindon’s new parishes

This will be followed the month after with elections for parish council members, which will be distributed as 15 councillors for the West Swindon parish, 15 for Central North Swindon and 23 for the larger Central South Swindon parish.

The report will now be put before full council on 10 November. See updates on www.swindonlink.com.

l The future of Swindon’s libraries will now be decided in December.

The Save Swindon’s Libraries group will be taking part in a national demonstration in London on 5 November.

The Save Park Library campaign petition has collected over 1100 signatures and will be debated by cabinet in November. /saveswindonslibraries

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News Ball record attempt raises £7,000 for charities An attempt to break the record for the number of people taking part in a Swiss Ball exercise class was almost achieved on 30 September.

Whilst the 407 packed into the David Lloyd Club in North Swindon exceeded the previous highest number, raising hopes that they had captured the world record, there was dismay when news came through that a gym in Ireland had attracted 433 participants.

However the Swindon event raised more than £7,000 for three local charities, chosen by the newly established Younite Foundation: • Jessie May, a home based hospice which supports children and their

families; • Bios mobile youth work project; • Melon Mission, an outreach project supported by Swindon volunteers helping to build a school for orphans and destitute children in Kenya.

“Everyone had a great time in what was a terrific turnout by the people of Swindon”, said James Phipps, CEO of Excalibur Group which organised the event. “Whilst it’s great to try and set records, this second event brings the total raised to more than £15,000 which will go such a long way to helping people who really need support, in many cases this can be life changing.”

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News

Independent Old Town - the Bohemian centre of Swindon?

Wood Street in Old Town - retail haven for the established, long serving businesses of Swindon and the new, bohemian start-ups such as Balula’s Delicatessen

The Core on Devizes Road - healthy eating unlike anything you will find elsewhere in Swindon

Baila Coffee and Vinyl on Victoria Road - what could be more bohemian than a cup of strong, artisan coffee and some classic records to relax

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When you think of a cultural centre for Swindon, a hub of creativity and vibrancy that stands out across the area, most would immediately think of Old Town. With its juice and cocktail bars, vinyl record stores, cafes, delicatessens, art galleries and even pioneering digital micro-businesses, this area is becoming a bohemian heartland for the independent spirit of the town.

The opening of the Oink Gallery in late September showcased Old Town’s swing towards being a centre for independent retailers looking for a place to express their wildest ideas.

Oink’s owner, Mark Pepperall of Hot Pepper Design said: “I think there’s something really exciting happening in Old Town at the moment with loads of independent businesses upping their game; it’s gradually becoming the Clifton of Swindon and there’s so much potential here for it to get better and better!

“It’ll be really great to become one of those businesses offering something completely different to the mix.”

Those new businesses include RPM Records on Devizes Road, who have now been open for almost six months and have been reaping the rewards of the community spirit in Old Town that comes from the sheer volume of independent retailers.

Co-owner Greg Miszowski said: “There is such a great business community here thanks in part to the Old Town Business Association.

It brings all of these retailers together and promotes the area. In the end, if one of these businesses does well, we all benefit because people are coming to see what’s on offer.

“Everything here is just a bit more unique than what you would see on the High Street. The businesses offer such a variety that you wouldn’t see in a big chain store, and people like browsing the area, not just one place. You don’t just pop into Old Town for one thing.

“We’ve had a lot of help from people like Graham at Dotty’s Cafe who has nurtured us through our first months as a company and helped solve problems we didn’t know we would have. I think that independent feel comes across in the service you get and keeps bringing customers back.”

Kris Talikowski is part of the Old Town Business Association and runs The Core juice bar also on Devizes Road. He said: “This area is a fantastic hub that wouldn’t work anywhere else. You could liken it to Clifton in Bristol or Shoreditch and Camden in London. We run the only truly healthy place to eat and drink in the whole town, and that’s something that just wouldn’t work on the High Street. But here it’s perfect.

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News

A view down Devizes Road with some of Old Town’s smaller independent businesses which drive the daytime economy

The latest addition to Old Town’s bohemian offering - ARC Lighting and Design on Victoria Road, offering an artistic hub for the budding designer

“I got involved with the Old Town Business Association to, forgive the pun, ‘juice it up’ a little and we have plans to improve the image of the area even more with a new app, a magazine and maybe even a historic audio tour to download for free. This area has so much history that needs to be celebrated and the audio tour will give people that insight that only local people would have had until now.

“Old Town is still defining what it is, but is constantly evolving and becoming an independent hub and is currently getting a huge uplift from some of the projects like the Locarno development. It’s an exciting time for sure.”

The array of artistic offerings and diversity of food and drink probably gives Old Town its charm. The only conventional high street retailers are a small Subway outlet just off Hoopers Place, Boots the Chemist on Wood Street and the Co-op supermarket. For the most part, independent food and drink havens like Balula’s Deli, Helen Browning’s Chop House, The Royal Oak Oyster and Gin bar, The Hop Inn, as well as the new cocktail bars like 1801 and Gustas have all contributed to make Old Town a round the clock foodie paradise.

Even one of Old Town’s most famous haunts, The Victoria pub, is getting in on the food-lovers

vibe offering gourmet dining with classic pub dishes from locally sourced ingredients.

Landlord Darren Simons said: “Old Town is definitely creating its own identity. I think it provides a lot more choice for people, and they know they are supporting trade directly and get the customer service that reflects that. From our perspective, as a principally night-time operator, we find people are fed up with the nightlife in the town centre and the vicinity of all the clubs, bars and venues like ours helps everyone, both customers and businesses.

“You have places like Baila Coffee and Vinyl down the road attracting a youthful audience, and that translates to younger people coming into the pub on the way past, or getting something to eat somewhere. It’s mutually beneficial and creates a scene that’s supportive, friendly and collaborative.”

The future for Old Town seems to lie in offering a retail experience unlike anywhere else in Swindon; something the high street can’t replicate.

Some may say it is an oldfashioned approach balancing unique goods with impeccable customer service, but the retailers would likely put it down to a passion for what they do. swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Community News SWADS group receive community funding for addiction bereavement service

Increased traffic concerns over proposed incinerator in South Marston

Swindon’s Supporting Well-being and Developing Stability group, known as SWADS, has secured funding from the Wiltshire Community Foundation to run a Bereavement by Addiction group, starting on 1 November.

The new service has been created to give local people suffering bereavement through addiction a place to express their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

Barbara Pike of SWADS, said: ”We recognise that this will fill a need

Local residents opposing an application to build a waste burning ‘Energy Centre’ at the South Marston Keypoint site are increasingly worried about the traffic implications.

Since the developers lodged their application in June residents have been drawing attention to the congestion around the Keypoint site. Some have even taken to photographing the queues of lorries that form.

Barry Jennings of the Stop Keypoint Incinerator Project group, said: “We keep getting reports of lorries backed up over the bridge or half parked up on the pavement as they wait. There will be a warehouse too that could add a lot more traffic.”

Other concerns raised by the campaigners include the potential for toxic emissions and the high levels of greenhouse gas they say the proposed incinerator would emit. Over 3,000 people signed a petition against the proposed development, a level of opposition that SKIP committee member Maureen Dilley, describes as “unprecedented”.

that was not previously available for the Swindon community.

“Addiction has such a stigma attached for many that it is not always easy for loved ones to receive the support that they need at this traumatic time.

“Our aim now is to let as many people as possible know that this will be happening and allow them to receive the support that these sessions will give.

You can contact SWADS on 01793 695405 or via their website: www.swads.org.uk

Ian Crummack, spokesperson for Rolton Kilbride, who are proposing the energy centre, said: “Understanding and responding to residents’ concerns is very important to us. We would like to clarify to residents that the plant is a gasification facility. It does not burn waste directly, but rather heats it to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen to create a gas called ‘syngas,’ which is then burnt to produce heat and power.

“The process is classed by Government as ‘energy recovery’ and not incineration. The facility will actually reduce greenhouse gas emissions (when compared to fossil fuels) and will contribute to the UK’s energy security as well as potentially reducing operating costs for local businesses, making them more competitive.

“We have undertaken a traffic analysis as part of the planning application. It includes mitigation measures that we would put into place for both construction and operation as well as a travel plan for staff and visitors to minimise congestion and any disruption to residents.”

Win £100 voucher for eco lighting with NSBRC Eco Solutions show in November

Produced by the team at Swindon’s National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC), the UK’s only permanent visitor centre for self builders and home improvers, their Eco Workshops cut through the ‘greenwash’ to bring you a wealth of independent advice and information on the latest energyefficient technologies, products and services.

On Saturday 12 November they are exploring improving existing properties with their Eco Workshop, which covers one of the most important eco issues today: What practical measures can be taken with existing buildings to make them more sustainable and energy efficient? NSBRC experts will explain the options available to those interested in retrofitting eco technologies into their homes and advise on everything from achieving air tightness, insulation

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requirements and ventilation issues and how to choose between the array of windows and doors that are on the market.

Tickets are free when booking in advance through www.nsbrc.co.uk and selecting booking code: Link Magazine NSBRC are offering a £100 voucher for LED lighting - to help people reduce their energy bills provided by Merkko LED Lighting.

To win, simply answer the following question; The Eco Workshop is packed full of ideas to save on your energy bills such as replacing traditional light bulbs with LEDs. But what does the abbreviation ‘LED’ stand for?

Send your answers to competitions@swindonlink.com Please include your daytime contact details. One entry per person and must include ‘NSBRC Light’ in the email subject line.

swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Education News

Social activities for the over 55s is a good way to boost better health Researchers at Harvard University have discovered that having few or no friends could be as deadly as smoking, according to Martin Preston of U3A Swindon.

They’ve found a link between loneliness and the levels of the blood clotting agent Fibrinogen which can cause heart attacks and stroke. Social isolation is believed to cause an increase of the clotting agent which could lead to higher blood pressure and a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.

The study found that people with just five others in their social network had 20 per cent higher levels fibrinogen than those with 25. The loss of 10 to 12 friends had the same impact on levels as taking up smoking.

Martin commented: “The British Heart Foundation say we cannot conclude definitely that social isolation directly causes heart problems and say more research is needed to look at the link.”

He agrees it will be some time before firm conclusions can be reached, but this research suggests there’s good reason to take steps

to fight loneliness and isolation by finding out what an organisation like U3A can offer you, or somebody you know who does not have much social interaction.

He added: “The underlying aim of U3A is that companionship and social interaction are key benefits of taking up new interests and sharing them with like-minded people.

Music, exercise, learning languages, visiting places of interest and many other activities make joining one or more of U3A’s 140+ groups possibly the best thing a retired or semiretired person can do.

“We all know life changes as we get older. We also know there are a lot more older people than ever before and fewer services available to help us. So it is vital to stay active in mind and body as well as socialising. U3A is a member driven organization which allows people to connect with others, to challenge themselves, to help others, to have fun and a lot of laughs to stay active in mind and body.”

See the range of courses and activities on offer at: www.swindonu3a.org.uk

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swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Education News

School governors wanted A number of schools in the Swindon area are desperate to recruit volunteer governors to increase the range of skills and experience available.

The schools include North Swindon based schools Uplands Special Secondary School, Catherine Wayte Primary School, St Francis Church of England Voluntary Aided School, and Horizons College in Stratton. All are looking for people with: • an interest in the performance of a school; • a background in a range of areas - business management/ HR recruitment skills/IT/finance/ premises and facilities/health and safety/safeguarding; • an interest in education; • a desire to contribute to and represent the community; • an enquiring mind and the confidence to ask questions and join in debate; • the equivalent of two evenings per month spare time.

Heather Large, clerk to the governing bodies of the various schools, said: “The main reason to become a community governor is to make a positive difference to the life chances of children. You provide

critical challenge and support to a school’s leadership team with the ultimate aim of driving up standards.

“As schools are tied deeply within the fabric of their community, it is part of the role of being a governor to ensure the school is accountable to the area it serves.

“Please don’t be put off by thinking that you need to have specialist expertise or knowledge.

Enthusiasm and interest is much more important to start with and there is tried and tested training and support available to help you throughout the four year term of office.

“And remember, you will be joining a long established governing body and will be supported by fellow governors with many years of combined experience.

“I would like to stress that being a governor can be enjoyable, stimulating and rewarding. Schools are interesting places and education is right up there at the top of the list of topics of conversation.”

If you are interested and would like to know more, contact Heather Large at h.m.large@btopenworld. com for an informal chat before making any kind of commitment.

Swindon Lions Fireworks and Funfair

Saturday 5th November 2016 Polo Ground, Marlborough Road

Gates open at 5.30pm Edwards Funfair; Josie and the Outlaw Fireworks Display 7.15pm

Admission at the gates: Adults £9.00, Children/OAP £5.00

Special Offer on Advance Tickets Adults £7.00, Children/OAP £4.00

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Community News Pets As Therapy dog Ted celebrated by GWH A friendly four-legged visitor to the Children’s Unit at Great Western Hospital is helping some of Swindon’s youngest patients forget about their illness for an hour or two. Golden retriever Ted is the latest Pets as Therapy animal to visit the Swindon hospital, and is often looked after by the team at Wagging Tails Dogcare.

Sarah Merritt, divisional director of nursing for paediatrics and gynaecology, said: “Behind Santa Claus, I think it’s safe to say that Ted is the most popular visitor to the Children’s Unit. He’s a really playful character and it’s easy for us to see the difference having him on

the ward makes to the children.”

Hilary Coates of Wagging Tails said: “He takes it all in his stride, which is why he’s perfect as a PAT dog. We have the pleasure of looking after Ted from time to time and his owner Gill has given us a nice testimonial which you can read online.” www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk

Janet’s Puppy Skool to host Children In Need Dog Show in November Children In Need will be getting a boost from Swindon’s four legged friends as Janet’s Puppy Skool in North Swindon raises funds with a fun day on 6 November.

Now into its second year, the fundraiser managed to donate over £1,000 to Children In Need last

year, a target organisers hope to break with your support.

As well as a Fun Dog Show there will be a raffle on site with prizes, tea and coffee with cakes, jewellery and doggy gear for sale.

For more information, visit: www. janetspuppyskool.co.uk

Young people getting radio opportunities at Swindon 105.5

Making a difference Volunteers provide vital support to organisations in Swindon and the people they are working with.

Could you free up some time to help?

Do you have business or financial skills? Maybe you have experience in project management, business planning, HR, legal or accountancy.

Many local charities including the volunteer centre are looking for people to help run their organisations as trustees or treasurers. Please get in touch if you would like to find out more The Open Door Centre runs sessions on Tuesday afternoons and needs volunteers who can assist clients with learning difficulties who need extra support to participate in group activities and take on general tasks.

Prospect Hospice is looking for volunteers for the In-Patient Unit,

typically serving meals and refreshments, sitting with and talking to patients, arranging flowers and occasional ironing.

Marie Curie EBay Shop wants to meet people who have an interest in online retail and social media, or photography, as well as those who have specialist knowledge in certain product areas.

Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis needs assistance on weekday afternoons with meeting centre users, answering the phone, taking money and general reception.

To find out more about these and other opportunities, contact Volunteer Centre Swindon on 01793 420557 or info@swindonvolunteers. org.uk Visitors can drop-in at 1 John Street from Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm, to discuss opportunities.

Find these and other opportunities at www.do-it.org

November: Child obesity Information and advice for parents from ePIP

Some of the young presenters of “Saturday Splash”

By Shirley Ludford of Swindon 105.5 I feel proud when young people come in to Swindon 105.5 and develop their confidence and skills and produce great material for broadcast, and feel mixed emotions when they leave us after becoming part of the team, to move on to further education or gaining employment as a great next step on their journey.

Recently one autistic trainee gained his first paid job, another starts training for a job this month and 17 year-old David has just left our “Saturday Splash” programme after seven years of producing the show and having passed his skills on to 16-year-old Belinda. They are part of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Company, through whom four teams of young people come in every Saturday, getting up for a 9am show.

The company performed their first show at the Wyvern Theatre recently and have presented

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Swindon 105.5 with £3,728 from the proceeds towards our work with young people.

Sheryll Fox, principal, says “I am delighted that we managed to raise so much money for two great organisations, just by doing what we love! We have been working with Swindon 105.5 for many years through the programme for young people. Our second beneficiary was the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, which funds research to cure, treat and prevent type one.

We selected this charity in support of one our students who has the life threatening condition.”

Projects with schools, colleges, universities and various agencies continue and we expect to see at least another 50 training placements during the coming year at Swindon 105.5.

Details of training courses can be found on our website: www.swindon1055.com. or e-mail: Shirley.ludford@swindon1055. com.

ePIP Coach Lorraine confronts a major health and social issue and says there are simple ways of tackling the problems early.

Almost one in ten British children in reception classes are obese. By the time children leave primary school, this doubles to nearly one in five.

The number of obese adults living in the UK has more than trebled in the past 25 years, with 17 per cent of men and 21 per cent of women being classed as obese.

This is causing huge concern within the medical community because obesity is linked to serious health problems.

It is very important that parents encourage children to be active from an early age as this helps establish lifelong healthy habits.

It is thought that large amounts of time spent in buggies and highchairs contributes to the low rate of physical activity in the under-fives and increases the risk of childhood obesity.

Babies need to have tummy time, wriggling around on play gyms, stretching for toys to help develop

their muscle growth. For toddlers and older children, physical activities can include: Hide and seek; Running, jumping and skipping; Stuck in the mud; Riding a bike; Dancing, swimming and climbing.

Obese children are more likely to experience bullying, low selfesteem, anxiety and depression.

They will also have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease in later life. The earlier we can encourage children to be active, the more likely they are to stay active in their teenage years and adulthood.

An adult with a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25 is classed as overweight and one with a BMI of more than 30 is obese.

Always consult with your doctor about you and your child’s physical health.

We can work with parents to implement different physical activities into their child’s daily routine, making them fun and inclusive for all the family to be healthy and active together. ePiP is your local provider of personal parenting coaching. Find out more at www.epipdirect.com

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH with in association

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Swindon film-makers launch funding campaign Swindon film-makers Alex Secker and Marcus Starr have launched a funding campaign for their debut feature film, Follow The Crows.

The film, produced by Rrats Kram Films and Infinite 8 Productions, as well as Secker’s own 22six Productions, is the first of its kind in the Swindon area.

The pair are running the campaign in the hopes of raising enough money to complete postproduction on the project and enter it into international film festivals.

As well as the usual thanks and gratitudes on social media, the film-making duo are offering some unique perks for benefactors, including figurines of the key cast, as well as posters, DVDs and access to a wealth of behind the scenes content.

Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, which was filmed in and around the Wiltshire area, using locally sourced actors and crew.

Follow The Crows tells the story of a small group of a survivors who wander the world, searching for

in association with

purpose. It stars local actors Max Curtis and Daniella Faircloth, as well as a host of local people in supporting roles.

It is the first independent feature film to be shot in Swindon.

“I’ve been making shorts for years,” says Alex Secker, the film’s writer and director, “but, aside from Silent Assassin, I’ve never really been that successful in having festivals accept them.

“It’s very competitive, the advent of digital cameras means that almost anyone can make a short film and enter it into a festival, it’s harder to get your work seen.

But there’s a smaller market for independent features, a lot of effort goes into even just getting the people available, let alone then making the thing.”

Filming finished in May of this year and post-production has been underway ever since, in order to release it into the world of international film festivals to find a distributor. /followthecrowsmovie

Swindon film crew brave Hurricane Matthew Two film-makers from Swindonbased Firebird Films have braved the ravages of Hurricane Matthew in Orlando, Florida to prove they can overcome a category four storm and still deliver.

Ross Mackenzie and Hugo Beanland have been working for US client Freeman and used the

oncoming hurricane as part of their shoot rather than shy away from it.

Ross said: “As a film company this isn’t the first time we’ve dealt with natural disasters. We got caught out in Nepal during the devastating earthquake two years ago but this hasn’t stopped us delivering either project on time.”

The duo from Firebird Films at work amidst the chaos of Hurricane Matthew

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Celebrating Swindon 175 in music Saturday 19 November, 7.30pm to 10pm Great Western Hall, Steam Museum

Swindon Symphony Orchestra celebrates Swindon 175 with a feast of favourite classics and contemporary compositions

by Dvorak, Rachmaninov, Strauss, John Williams and Walton featuring Hungarian pianist Daniel Lebhardt Tickets £12, conc. £10, children £5 from Steam, Central Library or call 01793 813095

Swindon engineer receives deserved royal recognition Daniel Gooch, the great engineer of the Great Western Railway, largely overshadowed by IK Brunel, is the unsung hero of Swindon, the man who identified in 1831 the fields below the village on the hill as the ideal location for a locomotive maintenance works which grew to a sprawling factory and drove the town’s economic success for more than a century.

On 20 October he received due recognition when HRH Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall unveiled a locomotive engine plaque naming the forecourt of Swindon railway station Sir Daniel Gooch Place.

She went onto meet VIPs and people involved in the organisation of Swindon175, the year long series of events during 2016 marking the start of new Swindon.

Project manager Caroline Black said: “We were thrilled and honoured that the Duchess of Cornwall agreed to attend our event and unveil the plaque and the gateway to our town.

“In all honesty, the event could not have gone better. The Duchess

was so gracious and put everybody at their ease, particularly Alex and Jaydon from Robert Le King Primary School who presented flowers.

“It was so exciting that she was here to draw attention to our important celebrations to honour a great man and raise the profile of Swindon.

“The plaque on the wall next to the entrance of the railway station looks fantastic, really eye catching.”

Graham Carter of Swindon Heritage added: “It’s great Camilla came to the town to highlight the father of Swindon. For anybody interested in the history of the town, the recognition of Daniel Gooch has been a long time coming.

“I was really impressed by how long she spent with the people she was introduced to. I told her all about Swindon Heritage magazine and the several hundred editions we need to tell all the stories about the town which we have lined up.”

• Find out more at the ‘Daniel Gooch – Life and Legacy’ exhibition in Steam Museum www.steam-museum.org.uk

Bengal Square welcomes sister restaurant

Mantra

to Swindon’s Old Town

Over the last 18 months both restaurants have undergone major refurbishment and improvement.

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2 Roughmoor Village Centre, Peatmoor, Swindon SN5 5DJ

01793 887799 01793 882233 info@bengalsquare.co.uk www.bengalsquare.co.uk

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HRH with Mark Hopwood, managing director of Great Western Railway, having named Sir Daniel Gooch Place. Below, viewing a sculpture of the great engineer made by New College student Fatima Alves

Viewing original drawings of Swindon railway works with Felicity Jones, assistant curator at Steam Museum, and colleagues Francesca Yeo and Ian Surtees. Below, Richard Deacon presents HRH with the Swindon175 timepiece, based on a watch used by a GWR station master

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Southdown Farm, Faringdon Road, (A420) Longcot, Oxon SN7 7UA swindonlink.com n November 2016

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guide to Live Music in Swindon for November Swindon’s live music scene is as diverse and widespread as any in the country. Whether you like chilled out acoustic music, blues, folk, pop, dance, electronica, rock or any other genre you can think of, the scope for musical entertainment is endless.

We will start things off with a bit of underground desert rock shall we? If you’ve heard of a group called Queens of the Stone Age, then you won’t be expecting any of their members to leave their stadium rocking circuit and play in Swindon any time soon. So the next best thing would be some former QOTSA members right?

Former Queens drummer Alfredo Hernandez glues this underground supergroup together and collectively they produce a sound that is psychedelic, raw, melodic and has something to say. Their musical bond comes from years of playing in their respective bands often together in California’s desert cities, Los Angeles and on many European tours, so catching them in Swindon on 1 November is a rare treat indeed. Local support comes from Rewire the Time Machine and Phoxjaw.

Swindon based orchestral genius/madman Shaun Buswell will be performing a rare solo show at Baila Coffee and Vinyl in Old Town on 13 November

If that doesn’t provide your rock fix, underground legends Solemn Sun are coming to Level III on Commercial Road on 25 November.

Swindon has local rockers All Ears Avow to thank for this incredible show, as they continue to build their national market share as one of the best up and coming acts in the UK. They have befriended Solemn Sun’s driving force, Jim Lockey, and are able to pull in this high calibre act to the town seemingly at will. Couple this with

stars in the making Polar Front and you have one of the best shows the south west has seen this winter.

We thoroughly recommend getting down to Level III for this!

If you’re looking for something a little more refined, dignified and delicately beautiful, the musings of Shaun Buswell may be just the ticket. Mr Buswell has toured the nation on multiple occasions, creating pop-up orchestras from the general public to perform at the Shephards Bush Empire and

Glastonbury Festival to name just two.

The utterly chaotic genius of the man is almost indescribable, yet his music ebbs and flows like the calmest of tributaries into a sea of serenity and thought. If this sounds like your kind of show, you can see Shaun Buswell at Baila Coffee and Vinyl in Old Town on 13 November.

And finally, as Monty Python used to say, time for something completely different. The Teddy White Band perform rhythm and blues in an aw-inspiring display that was once described by our group editor as “like walking right into the Louisiana bayou.

The musicianship on display was extraordinary. A quality on show in the live set of this band is hardly seen in this day and age.” So if they have a seal of approval like that, you know they must be doing something right. You can check out the Teddy White Band at The Victoria on 18 November.

There is a world of music to discover in Swindon besides just our picks here, so for more information on events in Swindon and beyond, visit: www.theocelot.co.uk

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 14th November, 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

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Butternut fennel and cumin soup In the third of a new series of recipes designed to be easy to cook but tasty and convenient the Link Magazine’s new cookery consultant Angela Barlow shows how to make a delicious dish for this time of year.

After the arrival of Halloween, Guy Fawkes night and with the nights drawing in we are reminded that whether we feel ready or not we are relentlessly sliding into the festive period.

But before we get all spruced up and tinsel tied, I wanted to offer a little culinary comma between October and December hence my recipe for butternut fennel and cumin soup.

It’s not only warming and cost effective but is a simple dish to prepare and due to the spice element gives a little kick.

It is also great for vegetarians or those with diabetes.

Firstly I prefer to roast the butternut squash on a baking tray as it gives a richer flavour and also makes peeling much easier. l Preheat oven to 190C/170C fan l Cut the butternut squash into

large chunks keeping the skin on but removing the seeds. Place on a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. l Roast in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove and let it cool.

When cool enough to handle remove the skin and cut into 2cm cubes. l Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large saucepan or stockpot. Add the onion, ginger, garlic, fennel and cumin seeds and fry gently until soft, taking care not to burn the onion and garlic. Add the roasted butternut squash and stock. Bring to the boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes making sure the squash is tender. Remove from the heat and blend until smooth adding a little more water if the consistency is too thick. Season with salt and pepper.

Ingredients for butternut fennel and cumin soup One large butternut squash - Olive oil - Salt and pepper - One medium red onion chopped finely - One thumb length piece of ginger peeled and finely grated - One clove of garlic crushed or finely grated - 1 tsp fennel seeds - 1 tsp cumin seeds - 800ml chicken or vegetable stock

l When ready to serve garnish with coriander and a swirl of single cream if desired.

This soup tastes delicious and is a hearty meal with or without a hunk of bread or croutons.

Help commemorate Swindon’s Diana with a blue plaque at her birthplace in North Street, Old Town.

Then, in September, there was Swindon has plaques, some might a double unveiling of plaques even be painted blue, but until dedicated to brothers Harold and this year the town did not have a Norman (‘John’) Starr, pilots who scheme to install the traditional, were both killed in the Second standardised blue plaques World War, at their birthplace - the commonly used in other towns and former Regent Hotel, now the site cities to mark historic sites. of the Savoy in Regent Street.

This changed in early 2016 when These plaques, which cost more Swindon Heritage launched its blue than £300 each to cast and install, plaques project and paid for the were financed by crowdfunding. first of what they hoped would be Now Swindon Heritage are many across the town. seeking support for a fourth plaque, The honour of being the first dedicated to actress and movie went to Edith New, the Swindonstar Diana Dors, born in Swindon born suffragette who was at the in 1931. forefront of the campaign for votes Project manager Noel Beauchamp for women. The plaque was unveiled explained that before a funding The history column by Graham Carter of Swindon Heritage

Swindon shines at successful poetry festival Poetry column by Poetry Swindon’s Maurice Spillane

Swindon can be proud of itself after ten days of The Swindon Poetry Festival.

We had six days of poetry around the community – Central Library, Savernake Street Social Hall, Community Centre, Museum of Computing, Arts Centre, Sun Inn at Coate and Lower Shaw Farm.

Every evening we had local people join us, many of whom would not

normally go to a poetry reading – and they loved it and I love that.

There were over 100 at the Childrens’ Day alone and that was special. Swindon could yet be the epicentre for the revival of poetry in the UK. The final four days were in the Richard Jefferies Museum where we had the “Tent-Palace of the Delicious Air” as Jefferies himself described the sky. The tent was humming with workshops, and readings and music.

One of the big London publishers, Todd Swift, emailed me with this:

appeal can be launched the permission of the property owners is needed. “Our experience so far is homeowners are enthusiastic and proud to have one on their wall,” he said. “There was an added complication with Diana Dors as nobody was quite sure where exactly a plaque should be mounted. We know she was born in the Haven Nursing Home in Kent Road, but it is long gone and none of our sources could pin down where in the street it had been.

“So we had to do some detailed research to prove the correct address.”

There was a reason for choosing Diana Dors for plaque number four.

Noel added: “We want to

celebrate the impact on Swindon and the world that a range of people have had; we also thought it was important to reclaim our international star, as ‘Our Diana’.”

The response to the latest appeal has been excellent, and Noel is on track to meet his target of unveiling it before Christmas.

But he is keeping the location close to his chest, as well as the identity of the person who has been lined up to unveil it. So watch this space for details, as well as news of future plaques, in 2017.

To contribute to the Diana Dors plaque appeal, go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/diana-dors To subscribe visit: www.swindonheritage.com

‘I have been attending festivals as a poet for over 25 years, and this was surely the best I have seen, in terms of spirit, friendliness, audience engagement, and general sense of a poetry friendly environment.’

All the visitors and poets said on social media and email that it was the friendliest festival in the UK, a reputation that Swindon well deserves.

To end on a high note how about these lovely lines from visiting poet, Cliff Yates, from his poem ‘One More Time’. It captures the high that we felt after a successful

festival with a down-to-earth celebration: The kite’s caught the wind, I’m hanging on, top of the cliff, just one more time.

Come back to bed she whispers in rhyme, come back to bed, there’s always more time.

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The Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel Our popular party nights contain all the ingredients for a memorable Christmas celebration The Brasserie Joiner Party Night Price: £28pp, accommodation £42.50pp

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Tuesday 1st, 8pm Albert Lee and Peter Asher. The multiple Grammy award winners combine talents for an evening of songs and stories. £22.50 Arts Centre Wednesday 2nd, 7.30pm Foster & Allen 40th anniversary tour. £22.50. Wyvern Thursday 3rd, 7.30pm That’ll Be The Day. Sensational classic hits from the 50s to the 80s. £27.50. Wyvern Saturday 5th, 7.30pm Joe Brown. Joe with stories, anecdotes and lots of music, accompanied by Henry Gross. £28. Wyvern Tuesday 8th, 7.30pm Wishbone Ash. Still rockin’ after more than 45 years. £22.50. Arts Centre Wednesday 9th, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital. Raymond Burley, guitar, with music from South America. £6. Wyvern Friday 11th, 7.30pm Thank You For The Music. Join the most fantabba-ulous party of the year celebrating the 40th anniversary of Abba’s greatest hit, Dancing Queen. £24.50. Wyvern Saturday 12th, 7.30pm Into The Shadows. Included in the show are many of the early Cliff and The Shadows vocal numbers. £14.50. Arts Centre Sunday 13th, 7.30pm Sensational 60s Experience. Step back in time and enjoy pop music at its best. £30. Wyvern Wednesday 16th, 7pm Jackson: Live in Concert. Ben, and his incredible band and dancers, recreates the Michael Jackson experience with a stunning rendition of all his favourite songs. £23.75.

Wyvern Sunday 20th, 7.30pm The Illegal Eagles, the world’s official number one Eagles tribute band. £26. Wyvern Tuesday 22nd, 7.30pm Brendan Shine. Brendan has had 25 albums, including 34 hit singles, 15 of which reached number 1 in Ireland. £18.50. Arts Centre Sunday 27th, 2.30pm & 6.30pm Kentwood Choir Christmas Craker.

A wonderful extravaganza of songs, laughs and seasonal favourites featuring Kentwood Show Choir, The Youth Choir, Aldbourne Band and special guests. £15. Wyvern Sunday 27th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series. Lisa Nelsen, flute, Julian Metxger, cello and Paul Turner, piano. £16; students £3.50; accompanied children 14 and under free. Arts Centre

WHAT’S ON SWINDON DRAMA Mon 14th & Tues 15th, 7pm Shakespeare Schools Festival. A series of unique performances by young people from all over Wiltshire. £10.Mansfield Wyvern Wednesday 16th to Saturday Park from the novel by Jane Austen, 19th,adapted 7.30pm

by Constance Cox present an amateur production of

Weds 16th to Sat 19th november 2016, 7.30pm

Mansfield presented The At The ArtsPark Centre, Old Town,by Swindon For tickets, Western Players.call This07575 skilful711522 dramaor email boxoffice@westernplayers.co.uk tisation Tickets: incorporates the tantalising £10 (Concessions £9) plot and rich characterisations of Austin’s classic novel. £10, tickets from 07575 711522 or boxoffice@ westernplayers.co.uk. Arts Centre Payment by Cheque or Cash only- No Cards Accepted

DANCE Thursday 24th, 7.30pm Funky Fusion performed by students of New College’s Dance & Performing Arts Department. £4; under 12s £2. The Phoenix Theatre, New College

MUSICAL Tuesday 22nd to Saturday 26th, 7.30pm; Wed & Sat 2.30pm Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story Experience the drama, passion and excitement of the greatest rock and roll show. £20 - £32. Wyvern

FILM Wednesday 2nd, 7.45pm Irrational Man (12). A disturbed genius professor struggles to find life’s meaning. He hatches a devious plan to change things. Swindon Film Society. Arts Centre Wednesday 9th, 7.45pm The Broken Circle Breakdown (15).

Blue-grass music provides the backdrop to the romance between two married band members. The illness of their young daughter threatens their love and faith. Swindon Film Society. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film screening

Baby & Kids Indoor Market Sunday 27 November, 1pm – 2.30pm Freshbrook Community Centre Worsley Rd, SN5 8LY Top quality brands at bargain prices.

Entry fee £1 per adult, kids free To book a table email Jo at my.mums@btinternet.com

Registered with the Gambling Commission

Registered Charity Number: 280093

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Swindon Wide

SWINDON COMEDY Mon 31 October, & Tues 1 November, 7.30pm; & Tues 2.30pm Round The Horne: The 50th Anniversary Tour. Radio comedy classic live with original scripts by Barry Took and Marty Feldman. £21. Wvyern Thursday 3rd, 8pm Angelos and Barry: The New Power Generation. Angelos Epithemiou and Barry From Watford discuss world concerns. £17. Arts Centre Fri 4th & Thurs 17th, 7.30pm Kevin ‘Bloody’ Wilson. Australia’s most unique international comedy legend. Age 18+. £31. Wyvern Saturday 5th James Acaster. Arts Centre. SOLD OUT Sunday 6th, 3.30pm & 7.30pm Al Murray: Lets Go Backwards Together. £30.50. Wyvern Sunday 6th, 7.30pm Blofeld & Baxter - Rogues On The Road. Wonderful, and occasionally outrageous, anecdotes from two extensive careers. £21. Arts Centre Thursday 10th, 8pm Paul Foot: ‘Tis a Pity She’s a Piglet. Professor Ketchup and his camembert piglet join forces as Paul tackles the big issues of today. Age 16+. £16. Arts Centre Thursday 10th Ross Noble. Wyvern. SOLD OUT Friday 11th, 7pm Austentatious. An all-star cast improvise a brand new Jane Austen work based on a single audience suggestion. Performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment. £14.75. Arts Centre Friday 18th, 7.30pm Jethro: 40 Years The Joker. Take a peek into the circus lurking deep within the mind of a great comic storyteller. £23. Wyvern Saturday 19th, 7.30pm Gervaise Phinn. The award-winning author shares his hilarious and sometimes poignant tales of life as a schools inspector in the Yorkshire Dales. £20.50. Wyvern Sunday 20th, 8pm Seann Walsh: One For The Road.

With a keen observational mind Seann can spot the absurdity in everything and convert it to perfectly delivered stand-up comedy. £16.50. Arts Centre Mon 28th & Tues 29th, 7.30pm An Evening with Pam Ayres.

Pam’s hair-trigger timing, her eye for the detail of everyday life and for the absurdity therein is a hidden art. £27.50. Wyvern

CHILDREN & FAMILY Thursday 24th to Saturday 26th, 7pm & Sat 2pm

The Princess and the Dragon. A brand new pantomime with a funfilled mix of comedy, song, dance and panto mayhem. £14. Arts Centre Wednesday 30th, 4.45pm & 7.30pm Make Music Swindon. Hundreds of primary aged children will be Swinging into Christmas with a swing band. £7. Wyvern

TALK Wednesday 9th, 7pm Steve Backshall: Wild World.

The wildlife TV presenter takes us on an illustrated journey from the Arctic to the Antarctic. £22.25; under 16s £18.25. Wyvern Monday 21st, 7.30pm Harry Hook: About Africa. Film director and photographer Harry Hook tells the epic story of Africa’s people and their inspiring journey from the land to the city. £20. Arts Centre

EXHIBITION Until 31 March 2017 Swindon: Then and Now. Local photographs chart the changes in the town’s urban landscape. Standard admission charge. STEAM Until April 2017, Wed to Sat, 11am to 4pm Lydiard at War. The story of the impact of the First World War on the St John family and the wider estate.

Admission charges. Lydiard House VENUES Arts Centre Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 Phoenix Theatre, New College Queen Drive SN3 1AH. (Advance tickets from Wyvern box office) Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

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Swindon Wide Charity nights still going strong at Swindon restaurant

Fireworks in Swindon this November

Take the family to one of the excellent firework displays and bonfires in and around Swindon.

Restaurant owner Hanif Robbani with local cross channel swimmer Bethan Sowden

Started in 2008, popular Indian restaurant Bengal Square in Peatmoor has consistently run charitable fundraising nights donating all profits to worthy causes across the Swindon area.

Now, the restaurant is expanding this charitable evening to their newly reopened sister site Mantra in Old Town.

Held every Monday and Tuesday at Bengal Square, and every Tuesday at Mantra, the charity nights have raised over £100,000 to date which has been shared amongst local causes from youth football teams to Macmillan cancer research.

Owner Hanif Robbani said: “We

donate all profits raised on the evening to the cause of choice, and this can be further added to if the organisers hold a raffle, quiz or auction.

“Donations from ourselves of £350+ are not uncommon and the best night we’ve ever had raised a grand total of over £3,000.

“We are happy to host events for any worthwhile cause and it doesn’t necessarily have to be a charity.”

To host a fundraising event at Mantra, email your event details to: info@mantraswindon.co.uk Or to host your event at Bengal Square email: info@bengalsquare.co.uk

Please remember not to bring sparklers, lanterns, alcohol or animals to the displays so that all can enjoy the events responsibly.

St Francis CofE Primary School, Taw Hill - Thursday 3rd, gates 5.30pm; display 6.30pm. Tickets: adult £4; children £3. under 3s free Brook Field Primary School, Shaw - Thursday 3rd, gates 6pm; display 7pm. Advance tickets from the school office: £4; family tickets £12.

On the gate: £5; family tickets £14; under 3s free. Presented by Friends of Brook Field School Westlea Primary School - Friday 4th, gates 5.30pm; display 6.30pm.

Advance tickets from school reception, adult £6; child £4; family

£18. On the gate: adult £7; child £5; family £19.

Purton House Organics, Church End, Purton SN5 4EB. Saturday 5th, 5pm to 9pm. Bonfire, sparklers, hot food and drinks, games and live music. No fireworks. Adult £2; under 12s free Swindon Lions Fireworks & Funfair, Polo Ground, Marlborough Road. Saturday 5th, gates 5.30pm; display 7.15pm. Advance tickets from swindonlions.org and various outlets in the town. Adult £7; child/OAP £4. On the gate: adult £9; child/OAP £5. Park & ride at Nationwide car park, Pipers Way. No parking on Downs View Road Swindon & North Wilts Scouts Fireworks, Lydiard Park. Saturday 5th, gates 5.30pm; bonfire 6pm; display 7pm. Adults £8; child £4.

Swindon Charity Ball applications needed Plans are underway for the 2017 Swindon Charity Ball, with organisations based in Swindon and around Wiltshire encouraged to apply to be a beneficiary.

Organised by Rotary Swindon and the Swindon Marriott hotel, with support from local businesses, the

Charity Ball began in 1989 and to date has raised £770,000.

Application forms need to reach the charity ball’s secretary before 10 November.

For application details and forms, contact Sue Harding via: susanjharding@btinternet.com

Swindon Fringe Festival launches Kickstarter The Swindon Fringe Festival is coming back in 2017, and organisers have launched a crowdfunding campaign to help fund another year of the popular arts event which will run from 1 to 9 April.

Applications for artists to perform at the festival opened on

SWINDON ROOFING COMPANY

30 September and will close on 13 November, with funds raised via the campaign going towards artist fees and organisational costs.

Volunteers are also needed to help run and promote events during the festival.

For more information, visit: www.madamrenards.co.uk

34 Queens Road Royal Wootton Bassett Swindon SN4 8AW

01793 239 559

info@swindonroofingcompany.co.uk www.swindonroofingcompany.co.uk

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24

After

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Sport and Leisure

New 24 hour gym to open in Old Town

Billy Elliot comes to Commonweal Commonweal School continue their annual tradition of hosting a West End musical from 23 to 25 November as they bring Billy Elliot – The Musical to Swindon.

Ali Sutcliffe, head of expressive arts at Commonweal, said: “After our last production of West Side Story, we were keen to continue to do a musical with a gritty storyline.

We also wanted to choose a production with an emphasis on dance as we have such a strong dance contingent within the school.

“Approximately 90 students are involved in the production and with staff are going well above and beyond the call of duty rehearsing every day during lunchtimes and after school and also giving up their weekends to hone their skills prior to show week.”

Billy Elliot the Musical is based on the 2000 film Billy Elliot. The music is by Elton John, and the book and lyrics are by Lee Hall, who wrote the film’s screenplay. The plot revolves around motherless Billy, who trades boxing gloves for ballet shoes during the miners’ strike in North Eastern England.

Tickets are priced £7.50 child and concs and £10 adults. Age guidance eight years plus. For ticket enquiries and payment email: ticketing@commonweal.co.uk l The Commonweal School Christmas Craft Market, organised

by The Commonweal School PTA, takes place at the school on Sunday 27 November, 11am – 4pm.

The free entry event includes a variety of crafts, gifts and produce stalls, Santa’s grotto, café, festive music, raffle and a tombola.

Anytime Fitness is scheduled to open in late November

The former Rehab nightclub in the middle of Old Town is going to see a different kind of all night activity when a new 24 hour gym opens in November.

Anytime Fitness opens its doors in late November, although an official opening date was not available as we went to press, and boasts cutting edge technology throughout with state of the art cardiovascular and resistance equipment. This ranges from free weights to functional training as well as a full studio class timetable including ‘Les Mills’ classes.

The gym will have private

JOIN TODAY!

MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE FROM ONLY

£28.95

bathrooms for clients to change in peace and will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Signing up for a membership with Anytime also gives you access to over 3,300 clubs worldwide.

The new facility will open next to the Subway outlet in Hoopers Place behind the new Tree Nightclub/ Rendezvous restaurant. It will be operated by franchisee Mike Racz of Gym Factory Swindon Ltd. In the planning application for the new gym, developers stated the site will be staffed from 10am to 9pm during the week, with 10am to 4pm coverage on the weekends.

JOIN ONE JOIN ALL

PRIVATE BATHROOMS

OPEN 24 HOURS

AFFORDABLE MEMBERSHIP

STATE OF THE PERSONALISED ART EQUIPMENT TRAINING

Unit 3, Hoopers Place, Swindon Old Town, Swindon. SN1 3RA 01793 251119 swindonoldtown@anytimefitness.co.uk swindonlink.com n November 2016

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Sport and Leisure Di E sc a r ou ly nts B Av ir ail d ab le

Runvember returns for 2016

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26

November is dedicated to running if you are Alan Butler from Royal Wootton Bassett, as his RunVember challenge returns in support of the Threshold Housing Link.

For those unfamiliar with Alan and his challenge, Runvember is almost exactly what it says on the tin; 30 days of running any distance you choose from one mile minimum to 50 or more, with some key events throughout the month to help you along your way including a swimsuit run through Swindon on 13 November.

The entry fee is simple; you have a Runvember stamped box which you must fill with non-perishable food and items from a predetermined list such as sleeping bags, roll mats and wet wipes.

Mr Butler can be seen regularly competing at local races in his

trusty pair of speedos and is not unaccustomed to running challenges. In 2014 he ran a total of 760 miles in the 30 days of November, with 227 of those coming in the last week alone.

In 2015, the challenge was taken up by over 150 people across the Swindon and Royal Wootton Bassett area and raised money for Christmas Care. This year, over 200 people had already signed up on the Runvember Facebook page by mid-October, with some even taking on the challenge early.

Runvember 2016 is raising money for Threshold Housing Link, a local independent charity which provides emergency, short, medium and long term accommodation to single homeless people in Swindon.

For more information visit: www.runvember.co.uk

Dashing through the snow for Swindon’s annual Santa Run Swindon’s premier Santa fitness event is back on Sunday 4 December to get you fit for the holiday season when the fifth Santa Run around Lydiard Park takes place in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Swindon Carers Centre.

Organised by Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix, the 5km course includes a shorter routes of 2km and 3km and for those pushing a pram or who have very young children, you can run, walk, jog or stroll.

Last year’s event raised almost £6,400 for local causes including Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Breast Cancer Now. Santa suits for the adults and youths are provided on the day, and children will receive Santa hats.

There is a Zumba warm up at 10.45am and Father Christmas aboard his trusty sleigh will fly in before the event start at 11am.

Entry fees are adult: £15; youth: £8; child: £5; infants are free, as is the family dog who must be on a lead at all times.

To sign up go to: www.swindonsanta.org.uk

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Sport and Leisure Keep supporting The Reds through good and bad The Trust STFC column with chairman Steve Mytton

At time of writing we’re just coming out of a very bad run of results, and morale is low within the fan base. Of course we’ve seen these bad times come and go previously so it’s important that supporters stick together and try and bring about a positive outcome in the coming crucial weeks.

Let’s encourage a positive atmosphere in the stadium as we strive to get back to winning ways and into a more secure league position.

Individual adult tickets for any Swindon Town home match are available for just £15 through the ‘Pro Red’ scheme, a saving of £10 on normal prices, so please help us to spread the word about this great club offer. Anyone who is local with a young family member in their household can definitely benefit from this deal, so please ask them to visit the Pro Red website: www.pro-red.co.uk and sign up to this fantastic scheme that encourages a larger fanbase for our future.

Trust board member Simon Cowley continues to promote the scheme among Swindon schools.

Haydon Wick Primary School show support for the Pro Red scheme

Recently he met up with the principal of Haydon Wick Primary School, Aine Gale, who had this to say: “We are delighted to sign up to the Pro Red initiative. We have many pupils in the school who regularly play football for fun and more competitively in teams throughout Swindon. It is great to support the local team!”

Finally, the Trust team continue to meet on a monthly basis and have many projects on the go.

Unfortunately it’s not possible to share all of those details at the moment but you will hear more in the very near future, so until then – please keep supporting us via www. redarmyfund.co.uk Your Club, Your Trust www.truststfc.com

Ditch the car for the commute?

On Two Wheels by Rob Derry of Swindon Bicycle Users Group (BUG)

I’ve been having to drive to work a bit more frequently than I have over the last 10 years.

Why do so many people put themselves through that when there is a good alternative for a lot of them?

There are roadworks all over the place, the queues form in exactly the same places at the same times every day and still people drive the 3 or 4 miles to work or to the shops or even shorter distances to drop the kids off at school.

One day, my journey to work (that usually takes just under 30 minutes on my bike) took me 57 minutes.

So, realistically, could you ditch the car for a small percentage of your journeys?

Think how great the roads are during the school holidays, when it’s estimated that traffic levels drop by 20%. To put that in to context, that same level of reduction could be achieved by people committing to not travel by car just once a week.

I know this is a cycling column but could you walk, take the bus or

car-share for just one day a week?

Of course, there are many people who cannot do this due to their schedule, or that they need to carry lots of things for work. But if only 50% of drivers could commit to cycling (or using any means of non-car transport) just once a week, we could reduce traffic by 10%.

That would help everyone get round quicker and maybe we wouldn’t then need all these roadworks that are trying to increase the capacity of the roads.

In other news, it has been announced that HSBC are the new sponsors of British Cycling, taking over from Sky who have done a lot of good work to encourage more cycling. Let’s hope HSBC can pick up where Sky have left off and improve things further.

Kitchens provider now based under Iron Age hill fort Bespoke kitchen supplier Barbury Kitchens have moved their operation to a new workshop and showroom under an Iron Age hill fort at Salthrop Farm in Wroughton.

The unusual yet striking location at the foot of Barbury Castle hosts the company’s workshop and retail outlet where customers can choose every detail of their new kitchen, which will be hand-crafted on site by the Barbury team.

Previously based on Victoria

Road, the company offers bespoke kitchen design from the ground up, and encourages customers to engage with the craftsmen in their workshop to make sure everything is in keeping with the initial design and idea of how your kitchen should be.

If you are interested in a bespoke design for your kitchen, or simply want a tour of the new workshop and showroom, call 01793 845575 to book an appointment or visit: www.barburykitchens.co.uk

WHITE VAN MAN SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35 • Full house removal • House clearance • Disposal of unwanted items • Any distance long/short • Fully insured

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Affordable Personal Care for Your Feet Treatments: Nail cutting (feet & hands) Nail deformities & ingrowing toenails Nail infections Verrucae treatment Corns & callus treatment Diabetic foot care Contact Joan Schofield MCFHP MAFHP 07763 908167 Hours to suit your busy lives

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Service Sector - Your guide to local services

• Specialise in wet rooms • Supply and fix service • Complete bathroom service • Underfloor heating • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering • Free estimates

Contact Mat: 07738 298803 mat@middlesextilingltd.co.uk www.middlesextilingltd.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

David Hawkins

Tree Surgeon ALL TREE WORK COMPLETED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD

Hedge cutting Stump grinding Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates Over 20 years experience

01793 976084 07967 594707

david.hawkins100@hotmail.co.uk

North Wiltshire

Tree Stump Removal Specialists www.Stumpbusters.co.uk Competitive rate Fully insured • Free quote NPTC qualified Office: 01793 772600 Mob: 07799 693139

FURNITURE WANTED Est 2002

For all your computing needs • Hardware & Software Installs & Upgrades • Repairs • Maintenance • PC Security • Home or Business Networking • Wireless Setup • On Site Service, Home or Business For a dedicated local service with a Microsoft Certified Professional, with over 21 years experience, call 01793 320 439 or 07799 337 918 E: info@compucareuk.com www.compucareuk.com

Working in and around the Swindon area • NEW BUILDS & EXTENSIONS • PLUMBING • JOINERY • FASCIAS & SOFFITS • GARDENING & MAINTENANCE • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Call 07970 061123 Email errol@jpsm.co.uk www.jpsm.co.uk Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week

Quality TGB garden buildings for any situation Bespoke sizes available Base laying & installation available 28

END O F SEASO N SALE

A charity providing furniture, white goods and household items to local people in need Call the collections line on 01793 683146 HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

SWINDON GAS SERVICES www.swindongasservices.co.uk

01793 847517 ★ boiler changes ★ boiler breakdown ★ full central heating systems ★ heating system upgrades ★ power flushing ★ bathroom suites ★ all types of plumbing work undertaken ★ no call out charge ★ 15 years experience 550065

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 8, Central Trading Estate Signal Way, Swindon SN3 1PD

Tel 01793 847545 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

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Fully insured CRB Police checked

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Service Sector - Your guide to local services Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member

Independently owned & operated

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

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.

M & J Upholsterers RE-UPHOLSTERY & ALL SUITE REPAIRS Re-upholstery of 3 piece suites, dining & fireside chairs etc.

Also new seat interiors Seams - Zips - Springs

LEATHER CLEANING Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

01793 421802

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.abacuscleaningservices.co.uk

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

PLANS DRAWN

DECORATOR

To arrange for a free estimate call

Loft conversion & extension specialist. Complete house design and commercial work undertaken.

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

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

From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given.

7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

Call 07709 453949

REMOVALS

We like to move it Swindon We move anything anytime single items, complete house moves or a house clearance

Call 01793 721455 or 07976 885203

www.trevorwyse.com

Call Mark or Wayne for a free quote on: 01793 323220/531022 07955 716630 / 07484 215063 mark492@hotmail.co.uk

J’s Electrical 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,

Haydon Wick Heating Services

We guarantee to beat any boiler change quote • Full central heating systems • Boiler changes / services and repairs • Power flushing • Full bathroom / ensuite installations • General plumbing works • Free quotes and realistic prices

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

CONCRETE BLOCKS, CELCON BLOCKS,

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BLOCK PAVING,

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Home extensions/rewires

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Kitchen & bathroom electrics

LANDSCAPE FABRIC,

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Extra Sockets/lights • • Fuse Board Upgrade • Fuse Board Upgrade

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and

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Data cabling/office conversions

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Decorative lights

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Free help and advice

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• Extra Sockets/lights

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hwheating@googlemail.com

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Fault finding/repairs

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Call Dan: 07791 791513 Email: dan@boylectrical.co.uk Visit: www.boylectrical.co.uk

Connected Connected Electrical Electrical && Property Services Property Services Call Geoff : 07824 314080 or Tel: 07824 314080 or 01793 703308 01793 703308 Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

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Puzzle

12

13

14

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

15

17

18 19

21

19 23

20 22

23

25

26

27

A L T

N S

S

SUDOKU

24

24

25

28

30

B A D

29

There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, you should not have to guess.

8 6 6 5 1 2 7 3 6 5 4 1 7 3 6 2 7 8 6 5 9 7 2 5 4 3 9 4 8 5 1 3 2 3 5

SOLUTIONS

5

31

ACROSS

DOWN

1.

6.

8.

9.

10.

11.

13.

14.

16.

18.

19.

21.

22.

23.

27.

28.

30.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

10.

11.

12.

14.

15.

17.

20.

Boat with twin hulls (9) Attach firmly (3) Tarry substance (7) Lawful (5) Feel need of (4) Pear-shaped fruit (3) Sob (4) Paddled (5) Became invalid (6) Military display (6) Entrap (5) Weak (4) Greyish-brown (3) Skin condition (4) Dance in triple time (5) Soft and limp (7) Rob ---, Scottish outlaw (3) 31. Profitable (9)

24.

25.

26.

29.

Rounded loaf (3) Taint (anag.) (5) Operatic heroine (4) Rotten (6) African river (4) Fabrication (7) Percussion instrument (9) Self-control (9) Lost colour (5) Progress (3,2) Marry (3) Period of light (3) Forfeit (7) Ban on people being outdoors (6) Spiny plants (5) Russian emperor (4) Den (4) Canine animal (3)

14 Wed; 15 Day; 17 Penalty; 20 Curfew; 24 Cacti; 25 Czar; 26 Lair; 29 Dog.

16

13

QUICK CROSSWORD Across – 1 Catamaran; 6 Fix; 8 Bitumen; 9 Legal; 10 Want; 11 Fig; 13 Weep; 14 Waded; 16 Lapsed; 18 Tattoo; 19 Decoy; 21 Puny; 22 Dun; 23 Acne; 27 Waltz; 28 Flaccid; 30 Roy; 31 Rewarding.

11

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which, when placed correctly in the grid, will form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

NONAGRAM alas; alba; anal; aslant; atlas; bald; balsa; banal; basal; basalt; bland; blast; blat; land; lass; last; nasal; natal; salad; salsa; salt; sandal; SANDBLAST; slab; slant; slat; tabla; tala.

11

14 Good; 17 Very Good; 20 Excellent.

MAGIC SQUARE grin; rare; iris; nest.

10

10

RESTING IN REAR, SIR?

Down – 1 Cob; 2 Titan; 3 Mimi; 4 Rancid; 5 Nile; 6 Figment; 7 Xylophone; 10 Willpower; 11 Faded; 12 Get on;

9

9

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Target scores:

1 8 4 6 9 2 5 7 3

7

6 9 7 3 5 1 8 2 4

6

3 5 2 8 4 7 6 9 1

8

5

2 6 5 7 1 9 4 3 8

5

4 3 9 5 6 8 2 1 7

4

8 7 1 4 2 3 9 5 6

3

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THE FIAT 500 FAMILY FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT INSURANCE, SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE INCLUDED AS PART OF THE MOTABILITY SCHEME PACKAGE Fiat 500 Pop Dualogic (Automatic): • Start&Stop • LED Running Day Lights • Steering Wheel Mounted Radio Controls Fiat 500L Trekking: • Cargo Magic Space: Height-adjustable Load Platform • Rear Parking Sensors • 5” Touchscreen Radio with Bluetooth Fiat 500X Pop Star: • Drive Mode Selector • Cruise Control with Speed Limiter • 17” Alloy Wheels • Automatic Climate Control

T H WHITE FIAT GROUP BRAND CENTRE, F O R E S T P A R K R O A D , M E A D W A Y, H I L L M E A D , S W I N D O N S N 5 5 Q J .

T E L : 0 1 7 9 3 3 9 3 5 3 7 W W W. M OTO R S. T H W H I T E . C O. U K Fuel consumption figures for the Fiat range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 29.7 (9.5) – 68.9 (4.1); Extra Urban 46.3 (6.1) – 97.4 (2.9); Combined 38.2 (7.4) – 83.1 (3.4).

CO2 emissions 171 – 88 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Vehicles shown are Fiat 500X Pop Star 1.6 MultiJet 120HP MY16 with 2

NIL Advance Payment, plus Fiat 500 Pop Dualogic 1.2 69HP with NIL Advance Payment and Fiat 500L Trekking 1.4 95HP with NIL Advance Payment. Fiat 500X and Fiat 500L Trekking feature optional paint at additional cost. Advance Payments are correct at time of going to press and subject to orders being placed between 1st October and 31st December 2016. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer may be varied and withdrawn at any time. Subject to stock availability.

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Acct Management Studio Manager Creative Director

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