North West Swindon Link December 2019

No 451 December 2019

GPS delivered door to door to 50,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 125,000

Swindon

LINK Your Community Magazine

Looking into the future of our town centre page 5

North & West Edition

Nepalese delegation forges links with Swindon Page 19 Page 6 ELECTION 2019: Two become one Swindon goes to the New College and Swindon polls College merge

Page 8

Page 27 Motoring: Leigh Robinson reviews the new Skoda

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

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Bring out the vote

Swindon carer in line for national award

Swindon carer Linda Harvey is in the running for a national award after being nominated by her employer for her commitment to caring.

Linda works with Bluebird Care Swindon, a leading care

By Group Editor Jamie Hill at home company which helps jamie@positive-media.co.uk support people to remain In recent months you would be living independently at home. forgiven for being a bit fed The 58-year-old from West up with all the shenanigans in Swindon has been working in Westminster. care for 28 years and for the Gone are the days where past 12 has been the team people thought politics was leader supporting Bluebird boring. It's now a daily irritant as Care Swindon customer, Sarah we gasp at what those political Furze, who has a number rascals are up to now. of learning and physical Well, it's not going to quieten disabilities, including epilepsy down any time soon as we now and cerebral palsy. have the massive palaver of a The management team at general election on Thursday Bluebird Care Swindon have December 12. been so impressed with Linda’s So we might all be bruised and commitment to Sarah they bloodied from a rollercoaster of nominated her for a Bluebird a political age where we've had Care Award. She won the to all learn new terms such as South West round and went 'backstop' and 'prorogation' but through to the *finals last it means that we now, more than month, where the overall ever, need to get out and vote as winner was announced. so much hinges on this election.

Linda, from West Swindon, So we should all shake off the said it was a complete shackles of our fatigue no matter surprise to find she had been what party you vote for and nominated. “It isn’t just me who make sure we fill in that cross supports Sarah, it’s a whole on election day as every vote team, but I have been helping matters. The December timing is her for the last 12 years and also a bit unusual meaning the it just makes me so happy to weather isn't likely to be the best. see her smile.”

So if you are able to help those When Linda first helped who find it a bit more difficult to Sarah, she was living with get around to get to the polling her parents. When Sarah’s booth that would be great as mother died, a care package every person should have the was put in place and it was opportunity to vote. decided Sarah would benefit Check out our election guide on from living independently, so page 8.

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Ben Fitzgerald Reporter: Claire Dukes

Sales Admin Manager: Sue Roberts Sales: Dave Stewart and Rosy Presley Office Manager: Karen Randall Photography:

Calyx

a flat was found for her in Oakleaze.

Linda was involved with all aspects of Sarah’s move, including choosing colour schemes and personally decorating the flat. Linda researched the best lighting to benefit Sarah, and strategically placed glitterballs and bubble lamps.

“Sarah is just wonderful and I love helping her,” said Linda, who is a mother-of-four with seven grandchildren. “When we first met, she didn’t speak, but now she says a few words and I know what she likes and what she enjoys. She loves colours and lights, so when we decorated her flat we made it bright and whacky. She even has a purple kitchen!”

Linda, with the help of another carer, takes Sarah on two holidays a year, they go for regular days out and she cooks her a Sunday roast. In fact, Linda also takes a roast

to Sarah’s Dad, Tony.

Tony said: “Linda puts Sarah’s and my health and welfare before herself, always making sure we are OK. Knowing that Sarah is so well cared for gives me peace of mind that Sarah will be happy for the rest of her life, when I am no longer around.”

When she’s not working, Linda’s caring role continues as she and her family support her husband, Sylver, who has Parkinson’s.

Bluebird Care Swindon Care Manager Katrina Simms said: “Linda gives 100% in all she does for Sarah, always giving that little bit extra, usually in her own time. Sarah’s needs are always addressed to the highest standards. Linda’s driving force in Sarah’s care team promotes a positive and proactive approach focused on Sarah’s needs and goals.” *The finals took place after Swindon Link went to print.

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Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 320043 swindonlink.com n December 2019

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Drones used to survey state of historic Mechanics' Institute High-tech cameras, drones and robots have been used to assess the current state of one of Swindon’s most notable heritage buildings.

Drones were sent into the Mechanics’ Institute to carry out a condition survey of the Grade II* listed building.

As part of the Heritage Action Zone that was recently launched to breathe new life into the Railway Village, Swindon Borough Council, in partnership with Historic England and the Mechanics’ Institution Trust, is looking for ways to restore the old Mechanics’ building.

The survey, which has been commissioned by the council and funded by Historic England, will allow the council and its partners to weigh up the options for the possible future use of the building.

Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, said: “The Mechanics’ is in a derelict state, and our commitment is to make real progress towards restoration within five years. I am serious

about making it happen, but it is a 30-year problem no-one has solved, and no-one should forget just how difficult it will be. Working with Historic England and the Mechanics’ Institution Trust is vital. We have a plan, we are making progress and this survey is a significant step forward.

“Drone technology will allow us to get a really good look at what we are dealing with and the professionals will use the high definition video and scans to estimate the likely cost of restoration and provide a permanent, reviewable record

The ancient practice of coppicing

By Roger Ogle roger_ogle@mac.com

National Tree Week from 25 November to 1 December will see people planting thousands of trees across Britain to tackle climate change and protect our precious wildlife habitats.

But Peatmoor Community Woodland Group cuts down trees to improve the environment. And they want to tell you why at an Open Morning on Sunday 1 December.

The group has managed the 4

woodland close to Peatmoor Lagoon for more than 31 years using the centuries old method of coppicing. It’s a way of cutting down hazel so that it regenerates. This lengthens the life of the tree, and also encourages greater diversity in the ecology of the woodland.

Tours of the copse and demonstrations will take place from 10.30am to 1pm on 1 December.

Details and directions can be found on the group’s Facebook page: Peatmoor Woodland or mail: roger_ogle@mac.com

of the state of the building.”

The Mechanics’ Institute was built by the Great Western Railway in 1855 to provide a place for recreation and education for railway workers.

It included a theatre and a library, among other amenities.

Since 2003 it has been owned

by Forefront Estates Ltd and its eventual renovation is a key priority for the Council and its partners.

Rebecca Barrett, Regional Director for Historic England in the South West, said: “At this stage we need to find out how safe the Mechanics’ Institute is,

and to understand more about its physical condition.

“As the building is currently out of bounds, drone technology allows us to get the information we need quickly and safely. It’s a vital step as we work closely with others to think imaginatively about the future of the building.”

David Thackray, Chair of the Mechanics’ Institution Trust, said: “The Trust is very pleased that we are soon going to be able to fully evaluate the structural condition of the building and we look forward to seeing the results in the near future.”

£3,500 awarded in grants Haydon Wick Parish Council has awarded more than £3,500 to local community groups.

A spokesperson for Haydon Wick Parish Council said: "The parish council has a grants budget which is used to help support local charities and voluntary groups each year with funding to enable them to carry out projects and activities."

The parish council has awarded grants to the following organisations and charities: n £500 to Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service to assist with transportation costs to take local schools to driving awareness workshops. n £300 to the Wiltshire Bobby Van which provides home security solutions to residents who are over 60 and

18+ with a disability. n £380 to Busy Fingers baby and toddler group to replace broken equipment. £1,500 to FC Abbey Meads for additional football kit. n £500 for Seven Fields Park Run to purchase new equipment for this new event. n £400 to the South West Ambulance Service to purchase a new chair for assisting people who have had a fall.

Local groups and organisations can apply for grants by contacting Haydon Wick Parish Council on 01793 722446 or emailing office@ haydonwick.gov.uk.

The deadline for the next submissions is 31 January 2020, for consideration at the meeting in February 2020.

For further information visit www.haydonwick.gov.uk/yourcouncil/grants-support/

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What does the future hold for the centre of Swindon?

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

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t the start of the year we launched our Heart of Swindon campaign, to reflect the growing concerns of our readership over the future of our town centre.

We opened with an impassioned plea for decision makers to ‘take an honest look at the challenges faced by the town centre’ and take urgent action to address the decline.

Back in January we highlighted the uphill struggle faced by hard-working retail staff. At the time, an unscientific count logged more than 30 empty units. It was clear that Swindon town centre, in common with many other towns around the country, was struggling under a host of crippling pressures.

The challenge for ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses is to adapt or die as they pit themselves against changing shopping habits, with growing numbers embracing online shopping as a cheaper and more convenient option.

Adding to the pressure, a proliferation of highly attractive alternatives compete for the attention of potential visitors looking for a ‘destination shop’ - from the slick gloss of the Swindon Designer Outlet Village to the Old Town charm of Wood Street. And further afield, Bath, Cirencester, Marlborough, Bristol and Oxford are all within striking distance.

Independent town centre shopkeepers highlighted the unhelpfully expensive car parking charges, high business

rates and a lack of thought given to creating welcoming and simple transport options as a further potential nail in the coffin.

We reflected their concerns - that the town centre was on a knife edge - proposing that unless urgent action was taken, backed by a genuine desire to being about change - the resuscitation of Swindon’s town centre would be a lost cause.

Over the year, we threw a range of key topics into sharp focus with the aim of encouraging honest discussion.

Among the key figures we interviewed were: Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the town centre Mark Powell Prime Theatre artistic director Di Powell InSwindon BID chief Executive Becky Cox Transport planner PC Paul Bezzant Town centre

policing Michael Keenen Threshold Housing Link’s Chief Development officer We reported on ambitious plans to replace the Wyvern Theatre with a town centre £25m cultural hub which would not only be home to a new theatre but also serve as a civic office for the Borough Council.

And we shared news of a proposed new £25m bus interchange for the town centre to replace the current tiredlooking concrete carbuncle. We also followed the progress of work to improve the entrance into Swindon from the Railway Station - in a bid to make it easier for visitors to navigate their way to the town centre.

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s we draw closer to the end of the year, thoughts turn inevitably to what achievements have been made on the resolutions that were set at the start of the year, and of the challenges that face us in the coming year.

It’s fair to say that it has been a mixed year, with Brexit fuelled uncertainty and a

struggling national economy adding to the woes of the retail sector. Some progress has been made - with plans being pushed forward to create a restaurant quarter in Canal Walk and ambitious residential tower blocks as part of the remodelling of Wharf Green and Canal Walk.

But pressures continue to mount, with the adjoining Regent Circus suffering the loss of Morrison’s supermarket and GBK burger restaurant and Tiffins since its opening.

And over the year the town centre has seen the loss of Dorothy Perkins, Wallis, Argos, Starbucks, Thorntons, Cardmarket, Thomas Cook,William Hill and Poundland. Perhaps it’s time to accept that Swindon centre is no longer the town’s main shopping hub - and that the whole space needs some creative re-imagining - be it a new residential area or an attractive green space in the middle of the town?

It’s clear that the debate will continue and that finding a solution is a hugely complex task - but we neglect the heart of Swindon at our peril.

Positive and radical solutions must be proposed, that have the backing of the people of Swindon and attract the right level of investment. Failure to grasp the issue will lead to a void in the centre that, if left unchecked, will impact on the rest of the town.

We all have a vested interest in the success of the town centre, however we choose to define it, and can all help to bring about change.

The future is in our hands.

Next month, the Heart of Swindon will focus on care and the community.

If your company or organisation would like to be featured, contact Rosy Presley rosy@positive-media.co.uk 07717 501790

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Croquet fundraiser Swindon Croquet Club has thanked the 26 members and friends who took part in the recent Charity Shield Tournament. The 2-day event raised £400 which was donated to Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The annual Charity Shield event comprises a team from Swindon Town Football Club Community Foundation (Extra Time) and their friends competing against members of Swindon Croquet Club.

For the record, the Club team won the first leg 11-7 then the Extra Time Team competed very strongly in the second leg losing narrowly 8-10 but charity fundraising was the big winner. The competition was organised and managed by Di Trott with the assistance of Linda Hunt and Terry Theobald.

Housing sale slump The monthly Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors UK Residential Market Survey continues to show a subdued housing sales market in the South West with a lack of newly agreed sales and new buyer enquiries. However, 27% of the region’s agents expect prices to increase over the coming twelve months, indicating a pick-up in the market post-election.

Looking ahead, 16% of agents in the South West expect to see sales increase over the coming three months.

Silver for Tadpole North Swindon's Tadpole Garden Village development has won silver in the Royal Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom competition - thanks to two residents. Residents Peter Welsh and Stu Olden who worked together to brighten up the village, update the gardens with new planters, and encourage local wildlife to the area.

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Swindon celebrates Beat the Street success once again Swindon’s Beat the Street challenge has come to an end for 2019 with a massive total of 252,157 miles.

More than 25,979 people signed up and walked, cycled and ran during the six-week challenge which took place from 25 September to 6 November.

There are winners from across the 16 leaderboards, with Haydonleigh Primary School travelling the furthest distance throughout the game. Their 964 members walked, ran and cycled a total of 14,467 miles.

Everyone who took part in this year’s Beat the Street game were invited to a celebration event at Lydiard Park on Saturday las month.

Beat the Street was delivered

by Intelligent Health and funded by the National Lottery on behalf of Sport England and Swindon Borough Council with the intention of increasing levels of walking and cycling in Swindon.

Speaking about the success of the initiative Stuart Arthur, local co-ordinator for Beat the Street, said: “It has been another fantastic game and we’ve loved hearing stories from people while we were out and about.

"Not only do we regularly hear from people who have loved playing Beat the Street and getting fitter, but we hear about families who are

spending more time together, people who have discovered new parts of Swindon that they might not have visited before, and communities coming together.

“Although the game has finished, we will continue to work with local groups, schools and residents to encourage people to maintain those lifestyle changes that they have made during the game.”

our two Colleges to come together to better meet the region’s education, skills and training needs.

"Together we will be a major force shaping future learning opportunities and helping to drive the economic prosperity of the Swindon and Wiltshire area.”

In April 2019, the Institute of Technology (IOT) Consortium, comprising both Colleges, local Universities, employers and wider stakeholders, became one of only 12 groups nationwide to win a bid for a £21 million capital project designed to bring 1,000 new

higher education places to the area by 2026.

Rob Beale, Chair of Governors at Swindon College said: “The coming together of our two institutions is absolutely right for Swindon, local people and employers.

"The joint strength and expertise of the two Colleges, along with the opportunities that the IOT will afford, means greater choice, enhanced skills development and improved progression opportunities for everyone – right through to the higher education level.”

Swindon and New College announce plans for merger

By Claire Dukes claire@positive-media.co.uk

The Governing Bodies of New College Swindon and Swindon College have announced they have agreed to undertake due diligence, with a view to them merging by the end of this academic year.

Governors for New College Swindon and Swindon College believe that a merger would bring a wide range of potential features and benefits for learners, employers and the wider community.

The governors say that a merger would enable a fresh vision for Swindon, which will raise aspirations and standards, improve the learner experience and achievement rates and expand skills training opportunities for employers with the aim of meeting current and future local needs.

Charlotte Mannion, Chair of Governing Body at New College Swindon said: “This merger is an opportunity for

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Election 2020 Boris Johnson will get Brexit done so we can take the country forward and prioritise the things that matter to you: schools, policing, the NHS, housing, the environment and a strong economy.

Robert Buckland and Justin Tomlinson are a team, fellow local residents, experienced MPs and senior Government Ministers. They are a strong voice for Swindon, championing our fantastic town and securing significant additional investment. This is making a positive difference:

Investing in the £23m the GWH Great Western – Whilst Academy & the NHS is The Deanery, receiving creating record thousands of funding, we extra school Justin Tomlinson (Swindon North) and have also places. Local Robert Buckland (Swindon South) secured £30m school funding to expand our A&E, £15m for will significantly increase a new Radiotherapy Unit and to a minimum of £4,000 money for a new cancer testing and £5,000 per Primary & detection technology. & Secondary school pupil.

Increasing funding for our Making our streets safer – schools – We are delivering Additional Police Officers are brand new Primary & being recruited as part of our Secondary schools, including pledge to deliver 20,000 more

Police Officers and we have introduced tougher sentences.

Supporting our local economy – We are attracting new businesses and investment which has helped deliver over 11,000 new jobs and 12,000 apprenticeship starts. In our growing town, over 1,500 firsttime buyers have benefitted from the Government’s Help to Buy scheme. The choice at this election is clear – direction, opportunity and a better future with Boris Johnson or the chaos and economic devastation of a Jeremy Corbyn Government.

You have a chance to vote for real change.

Labour will bring the country back together with our transformative policies to: - tackle climate change; - reinvest in public services that have been deeply damaged by 9 years of cuts; - get Brexit sorted within 6 months.

Our Brexit policy is clear, democratic and fair to everyone: within 3 months we’ll negotiate a deal that legally protects workers’ rights,

environmental achieve that. standards Locally, we and consumer will benefit protections, from Labour’s and within 6 plan for an months (by electric vehicle the middle of battery factory June) we’ll put Kate Linnegar (Swindon North) and in Swindon, Sarah Church (Swindon South) that deal back bringing over to the people in a vote with the 3100 jobs. option to remain.

We believe everyone should The biggest issue we face pay their fair share towards is climate change. We must our public services. Labour take big strides to hit net zero will ensure that tax money is carbon by 2030 - Labour’s spent on your child’s school, on Green Industrial Revolution will building more council homes,

on the youth services that have been chronically underfunded, and on early years because every child deserves the best start.

Labour will halt and reverse the privatisation of our NHS. Labour will stand up for women at work with new rights and protections for menopausal women, and we’ll support and compensate women whose state pension age has changed.

The Labour Party will stand up for everyone in Swindon, not just the 48% or the 52%.

Liberal Democrats demand better for Britain. We want to provide a brighter future in a fairer Britain, with good schools and hospitals, a clean environment and an innovative economy.

Liberal Democrats passionately believe that Britain is stronger in the European Union. It is Swindon and the country’s biggest market place and the reason why major companies came here.

We are the biggest, strongest anti-Brexit party and we have 8 swindonlink.com n December 2019

led the fight A vote for to stop Brexit the Liberal for three Democrats is years. a vote to stop Growth in Brexit. the economy The Liberal has slowed, Democrats are Katie Critchlow (Swindon North) and and the the only party Stan Pajak (Swindon South) government with a clear plan is already borrowing billions for the NHS and social care. more to fill the gap in lost tax Under our plan, the health revenue. and care services will be there Urgent problems, such as for you and your loved ones the NHS crisis and climate when they need it, and won’t emergency are being have to stretch budgets to neglected. Brexit would make breaking point. all these problems worse.

We will put a penny in the

pound on income tax to give the NHS and social care services the cash they need The climate emergency is an existing threat.

We have no time to lose: this is an urgent crisis that demands real action now.

The Liberal Democrats will crack down on air pollution and invest in renewable energy, creating green jobs across the UK. This is a global emergency.

We will work in the EU to lead on this emergency and protect our planet.

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Election Election 2020 2020

Team prepares for challenging logistical exercise With the General Election looming large on December 12, those working behind the scenes have their work cut out to ensure that the huge logistical arrangements are in place for the big day.

Overseeing the plans to make sure Swindon residents are able to exercise their democratic right without a hitch is Matt Box, Head of Elections and Democracy at Swindon Borough Council.

He explained: “It is extremely challenging to organise a General Election at short notice. Although there had been widespread talk of an election in the offing, a series of dates were mooted and then fell by the wayside, which made it impossible to firm up any logistical arrangements and venue bookings until the election was formally confirmed.

“Despite concerns about venues being unavailable, we have been very lucky in Swindon and only two polling stations declined the booking.

That said, our usual count venue is unavailable due to Christmas parties, so we will move to STEAM for the count in December.

“A new count venue always brings with it a host of logistical challenges, but STEAM is a beautiful venue and at the heart of Swindon’s industrial heritage. It is a great opportunity to showcase Swindon’s railway heritage after the polls have closed.”

Polling booths open from 7am until 10pm on Thursday, 12 December. Then, after 10pm the Ballot Boxes will be taken to STEAM for the count.

There are three different ways you can vote; most people vote in person at their local polling station.

If you are not able to go to the polling station in person on election day, you can apply to vote by post or by proxy.

For details about how to vote e-mail elecreg@swindon.gov. uk or call the Electoral Services team on 01793 464601.

The Green Party leads the way in climate policy, is strongly pro-Europe and would transform the economy and society to eliminate inequality and support strong public services.

We have been warning about the dangers of climate change for almost 40 years.

The world now knows that we were right. Although other Parties talk about the environment, they have repeatedly failed to make the changes needed to protect our

natural world, to safeguard us from climate breakdown and to preserve the future.

The Green Party will take the bold and urgent action needed to tackle the climate crisis. The Green Party has not only been warning about this coming emergency – it has been working on the solutions.

The "Green New Deal" originated in the Green Party and has been central to our policies since the 2008 economic crash.

But environmental challenges

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Swindon's election in numbers 550 (approx) - the number of staff that will be needed on the day.

200 (approx) - the number of staff who will be at STEAM to count the votes on the

night of the election.

103 - the number of ballot boxes sited at polling stations around Swindon 150,000 (approx) - The number of people in

don’t respect international borders, we can’t solve problems like these on our own.

As well as magnifying Andy Bentley (Swindon North) our influence in the world, encouraging cooperation in research, increasing security and boosting the economy, EU membership has been essential for environmental protection.

Swindon who are eligible to cast a vote.

6,000 (approx) - the number of applications received by the elections team to register to vote since the election was announced.

We will fight to remain in the EU, by offering voters a second referendum and campaigning hard for Remain.

A vote for the Green Party is a vote for radical policies to tackle climate change, to remain a leading member of the EU, to transform the UK economy and society by implementing a real, transformative, Green New Deal and Universal Basic Income.

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Beating the streets!

Swindon’s Beat the Street challenge has come to an end for 2019 with a total of 252,157 miles.

More than 25,979 people signed up and walked, cycled and ran during the six-week challenge which took place from 25 September to 6 November.

There are winners from across the 16 leaderboards, with Haydonleigh Primary School travelling the furthest distance throughout the game.

Their 964 members walked, ran and cycled a total of 14,467 miles.

Xmas animal appeal The RSPCA has launched its festive appeal to help animals this winter.

Last December, there were more than 61,000 calls coming through to the charity’s cruelty line, up by more than 5,000 from the previous year. Of these calls, 3,307 were logged in the South West.

There were more than 5,000 animals taken in over the Christmas period last year, including more than 2,100 cats and more than 1,000 dogs. To donate, log in to www.rspca.org.uk

Steam gets festive

Steam – Museum of the Great Western Railway will be transformed into a Christmas Wonderland.

Visitors on 30 November and 1 December will have the chance to buy festive treats and buy gifts as they browse 50 artisan market stalls displayed among the GWR story-telling exhibits and legendary locomotives.

Santa’s Storytime sessions take place in a cosy fireplace setting and include Christmas stories, sing-alongs and a wrapped gift.

Sessions cost £7.50 per child in addition to the special admission charge and are bookable in advance by visiting the Steam website at www.steam-museum.org.uk 10

True grit: council prepares for winter freeze A team of eight drivers and eight gritting lorries are on standby should Swindon be hit by freezing temperatures over the coming months.

More than 500 tonnes of salt were delivered to Swindon Borough Council’s Waterside depot in Cheney Manor Industrial Estate during the summer, taking the road salt stockpile to over 1,300 tonnes.

The salt which has been put aside by the Council is enough to treat the town’s priority routes more than 50 times.

Additional salt is on provisional order should Swindon experience snow or prolonged cold spells with further salt stocks easily available should they be needed. Last year, the council treated the priority routes 28 times using about 950 tonnes of salt.

The gritting team will be on alert 24 hours a day to grit the priority routes, which cover 208 miles of the borough’s 520-mile road network. They will also be on hand to plough the routes in

the event of heavy snowfall.

The council’s drivers have been out training over the past few weeks going over their routes and making sure they are as prepared as possible in the event of severe weather.

The Council has emergency planning procedures in place and staff in many service areas will also be placed on standby in the event of severe weather.

Councillor Maureen Penny, Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, said: “Our gritting team have only just finished their winter training so are as prepared as they can be for any cold weather that might come our way in the months ahead.

“Last year, they did a tremendous job keeping our

priority routes clear and we will need them again this winter should the weather take a turn for the worse. We have ordered plenty of road salt and have contingencies in place to order more should we need it, although our team’s good planning means we always have plenty in reserve. We also have plans in place to ensure we have staff ready to respond around the clock and keep our vulnerable residents safe in adverse weather.”

Further information on council services in an emergency or during adverse weather will be available on the council's social media accounts and through the Your Swindon newsletter available at www.swindon.gov. uk/newsletter

GWH receives funding for new cancer screening machines

By Claire Dukes claire@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon's Great Western Hospital will receive new cancer testing and detection technology after receiving a slice of £200m.

Swindon's Great Western Hospital is one of 78 hospitals across the UK that will receive funding for new cancer testing and detection technology.

The new machines are set to improve screening and early diagnosis of cancer, and are part of the government’s scheme to ensure 55,000 more people survive cancer each year.

Cally Palmer, National Cancer Director at NHS England, said: "Cancer survival is at a record high thanks to better prevention, earlier diagnosis and world-leading treatments in the NHS. "This major investment in the best modern scanning technology will benefit patients in every part of England,

helping us to achieve the NHS Long Term Plan’s ambitions of catching tens of thousands more cancers earlier when they are easier to treat, saving 55,000 more lives every year."

The funding will update and refurbish CT and MRI scanners – bringing in alternatives with lower radiation levels - and breast screening imaging and assessment equipment.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: "This new state-of-the-art equipment for 78 trusts across England will ensure doctors and clinicians can help even more people survive a cancer diagnosis and stop the disease as early as possible.

"It’s mission critical that the technology our NHS uses to

prevent and diagnose cancer is brought into the 21st century.

We have backed the roll-out of these new machines with £200 million in funding."

Responding to the news South Swindon MP, Justice Secretary & Lord Chancellor Rt Hon Robert Buckland QC MP added: "It is fantastic news that the Great Western Hospital will benefit from funding for new cancer testing and detection technology.

"I lobbied Matt Hancock, the Health Secretary, hard for this money and it builds upon the additional £30 million the GWH is set to receive to deliver a reconfigured and enlarged Emergency Department and Transitional Care Facility."

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£17m development plans submitted for town centre hotel

By Claire Dukes claire@positive-media.co.uk

As part of Swindon Borough Council's town centre regeneration programme, plans for a £17 million development of a Premier Inn have been submitted.

Whitbread – owner of Premier Inn – and Swindon Borough Council have agreed a deal which could see Aspen House redeveloped for a new 197 bedroom Premier Inn hotel, as part of Swindon’s town centre regeneration programme.

Whitbread has agreed terms with Swindon Borough Council to acquire the site of the former Aspen House on Regent Street subject to planning permission – an application for planning permission was due to be submitted last month.

If approved, the plans would see Whitbread investing in excess of £17 million in constructing a brand new

Premier Inn over eight storeys together with a ‘Bar+Block’ steakhouse restaurant on the ground floor as well as 42 guest parking spaces.

The plans could also see Whitbread creating approximately 80 to 85 new year-round jobs within the hotel and restaurant.

Paul Smith, Acquisition Manager at Premier Inn, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to invest in an excellentlylocated town centre site and bring a new Premier Inn hotel and restaurant, around 80 to 85 jobs and some real momentum to the regeneration plans in Swindon.

"We’re pleased to be playing a part and, subject to planning permission, look forward to starting construction on what will be a superb addition to Swindon’s hotel and leisure offer. We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and continuing our excellent track

record of working with local authorities to invest and make regeneration happen.”

Subject to planning permission, Whitbread anticipates starting construction in summer 2020 and for the hotel and restaurant to be opening their doors in autumn 2021.

Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, said: “Over the next 12 months, residents and businesses will see a visible difference to the Aspen House site with construction starting

on a new Premier Inn hotel and Bar+Block steakhouse.

This deal has been quietly worked on for nearly a year and is hugely positive news for Swindon. It clearly demonstrates that, step by step, we are making real progress in sorting out the regeneration of our town.

The Council is committed to making the town centre a popular and thriving destination.”

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15/11/2019 13:32

Golfers putt money where their mouth is for Prospect Hospice A son whose father received care from a local hospice has announced the date of his next annual fundraising golf day.

Keen golfer Ian Rumbold organised the first event in 2018 in memory of his dad Stewart who received end of life care from the team at Prospect Hospice. Now his event will reach its third year Sunday 30 August 2020.

After its success, the event was held again in 2019 and the two events combined have seen over 60 golfers raise over £8,000 for charity that cares for patients with a life limiting illness, and their family and carers, across Swindon and north-east Wiltshire.

Ian said: “I’m so thankful to everyone who has supported me with these events over the last couple of years I’m pleased to announce the third one will take place on Sunday 30 August 2020 at Bowood

Golf and Country Club.

"I’d love to hear from players that have come along before but am also keen to see some new faces at the tee who wish to join me in this enjoyable day and help raise money for the Prospect Hospice irumbold86@gmail.com."

Vikki Rath, community and events fundraiser at Prospect Hospice added: "I know that Ian was keen to give back to the hospice after we cared for his dad and it takes a lot to organise such an event. I also know that he wanted to make his dad proud and he’s done much more than that.”

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Swindon helps the homeless Businesses against homelessness back Threshold Housing Link

The Haven was opened in January 2019

Council’s homeless winter housing scheme to return in January Swindon Borough Council have confirmed its Temporary Winter Housing Provision (TWHP) scheme will return for a third consecutive year.

The project, which will see a select number of homeless people given shelter during the cold winter period, will this year run for 12 weeks from Thursday, 2 January 2020.

This year the scheme, which provides a safe refuge for an identified group of entrenched rough sleepers, will be run by the charity Swindon Night Shelter.

Last year, the TWHP was accompanied by the opening of a new day centre, which is also run by Swindon Night Shelter. The day centre, located at The Haven off

Upcoming community events:

Threshold's Big Swindon SleepOut 2019 When: Friday 6 December Where: Supermarine Sports Club What: The biggest familyfriendly homeless solidarity event in the region. www.thl.org.uk Christmas Care donation day When: 14 & 21 December Where: Buckhurst Community Centre, Walcot, Swindon SN3 3BS (The Dome) What: Christmas Care provides shelter, hot food and social activities for vulnerable adults during the Christmas period. www.christmascareswindon.org.uk 14

Queens Drive, acts as a first point of contact for rough sleepers to access vital services such as mental health provision and drug and alcohol support.

This year, 12 guests will be given a space in the TWHP scheme and will receive close personal support with the aim of encouraging them off the streets and into safe, long term accommodation.

Last year’s project was such a success that five guests were able to move into permanent accommodation by the end of the project.

The scheme is being funded by a £20,000 grant from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, with Swindon Night Shelter providing the rest and the Council providing the building.

Homeless charity recieves £16k 'lifeline' Swindon Cares presented a cheque for £16,710 to homeless charity Swindon Night Shelter.

Since opening a brand-new day centre, The Haven, earlier this year, Swindon Night Shelter has been providing rough sleepers in Swindon with hot food, clothes, cleaning facilities and support services. Alongside The Haven the charity also provides a Night Shelter at St Mary's Church every Friday.

The charity say the donation from Swindon Cares has offered a lifeline to many of their guests. www.swindonnightshelter.uk

Charity coat swap campaign 'massive success' Threshold Housing Link took special delivery of more than 40 winter coats in four full boxes stacked high from TOG24 - a 'Business Against Homelessness' supporter - at Swindon Designer Outlet Centre.

The Swindon TOG24 store and Threshold Housing Link led on a national ‘Swap-ACoat’ campaign that rolled out across more than twenty of the UK winter clothing retailers stores. Donna Emms,

TOG24 Area Supervisor, said: "We are immensely proud to work in partnership on this initiative.

"The national campaign has been a massive success which has resulted in well over 1000 coats being brought in and 'swapped' in store for a discount on a new coat.

It's wonderful that Swindon's longest established homeless charity is one of the recipients." www.thl.org.uk

Career coach lends expertise to those in need Managing Director and founder of Correct Careers Coaching, Jamie Martin, 32, is the first business to back Threshold Housing Link’s #Threshold2020 campaign.

As part of the campaign the psychology graduate, and former Reed Business Manager, is offering 20 hours of his time to help the charity’s residents get back into employment. Mr Martin joined the campaign in October after meeting Threshold Housing Link's Chief Development Officer, Michael Keenan.

Mr Martin said: "I met Michael a few months ago – it was at Friends of Threshold Housing event. He was so inspirational, and I really bought into him and found out more about Threshold and how I can help. I expressed an interest to take part in the #Threshold2020 campaign, so he took me

round to Threshold’s three properties where I met some of the residents and provided some career advice.

"One of my mains aims is to help the individuals find secure employment by updating their CVs, help them to prepare for interviews and understand how to locate jobs that are of interest to them. It’s about identifying what their capabilities are, what they are happy with and finding them the right company.

"Michael and the charity inspired me to give back to the local community - so if you’ve got knowledge then share that."

swindonlink.com n December 2019

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15/11/2019 13:32

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attending. Registration is now open for the 2020 Mad March Hare event.

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LPA Sixth Form

The School profile: Lydiard Park Academy Welcome to Lydiard Park Academy Lydiard Park Academy is a successful and oversubscribed school and sixth form located in West Swindon, bordering the picturesque Lydiard Park stately home and estate.

Known as a forward thinking school that is ambitious for its pupils and the community it serves, Lydiard Park Academy has grown in success and influence to include: a a highly rated and growing Sixth Form a founding a successful and growing partnership of schools The Park Academies Trust a establishing a new and popular teaching training provider - the Swindon Teacher Training Partnership a creating a thriving centre to support pupils with mild autism This has all been achieved whilst raising pupil outcomes year on year and managing a growth in school roll to over 1200 pupils aged 11 to 18 years. The percentage of pupils achieving five or more GCSE passes is a key government measure. In 2019, our results rose to over 67%, well above national rates.

The Park Academies Trust

"Lydiard Park Academy is part of The Park Academies Trust. We aim to become a leading education provider in the South West, helping thousands of young people to turn their potential into performance."

Mr C. Zimmerman, Executive Principal

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Get to know the schools in your area.

This issue: Lydiard Park Academy Address: Grange Park Way, Swindon SN5 6HN Contact: 01793 874224 Website: www.lydiardparkacademy.org.uk

"In 2019 all of our sixth form students who applied to university (66%), progressed to the destination of their choice (Swindon average 29%).

All Degree Apprenticeship applicants successfully secured their place. On top of these successes a record number of A level passes (43%), were at the higher A*- B grade, exceeding our government set target by 12%.

Furthermore, students on A level and Vocational courses made better than expected progress against national targets. Ofsted rated our new Sixth Form as ‘Good’ in 2018. We are very proud of what our staff and students have achieved. We have 200 spaces available in our Sixth Form."

Mr. O. Russell, Head of Sixth Form

Principal G. Pearson with students

The Lydiard Park Academy experience "Our vision is to be a centre of excellence inspiring all pupils to turn their potential into performance. This means we need to cater for the wide range of skills, abilities and interests that pupils have and offer high quality opportunities that can develop them and take them forward.

We start by providing a broad and balanced curriculum with high quality teaching in every subject. We then add in extra opportunities through our extra-curricular programme (‘Session 6’) which includes a wide range of clubs from a large Duke of Edinburgh programme (bronze, silver and gold levels) to musical theatre productions staged in our theatre, to poetry slams. To

go even further we have two special programmes called The Sports Academy and The G+T Academy (Gifted and Talented) that provide further opportunities to stretch, challenge and develop our most able and talented pupils.

Through these different opportunities we aim to provide something for every pupil that will inspire and motivate them to make the most of the excellent education we work incredibly hard to provide. This has been the bedrock of the Academy’s considerable success over a number of years and we are relentless in looking for further gains and improvements each and every year."

Mr G. Pearson, Principal

Ofsted reports Lydiard Park Academy: "Pupils make good progress as a consequence of good teaching.

The results they achieve at the end of Key Stage 4 are consistently at or above the national average.”

Ofsted 2018 The Parks Academies Trust Sixth Form: "The sixth form prepares students well for the next stage of their education, employment or training.” Ofsted 2018 15/11/2019 13:32

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Pets and Nature

Ramblers set out programme of wonderful winter walks Swindon and North East Wiltshire Ramblers will be stepping out over the Festive break with a selection of walks both long and short and suitable for all abilities.

The festival starts with the first walk at 10.30am on Saturday 21st December with a 5 mile walk. This is starting from the Cotswold Water Park Gateway Centre just off the A419, and explores the Thames and Severn Canal and the surrounding countryside.

On New Years Day you can start the New Year off healthily by joining us for a brisk 5 mile walk starting from Coate Water at 10am to Hodson and back.

There are 6 other walks to choose from as the Festival of Winter Walks lasts until Sunday 5th January. Full details of these walks and many others can be found on our website at: http://www. wiltsswindonramblers. org.uk or email chair@ ne.wiltsswindonramblers.org.uk

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Swindon welcomes Nepalese delegation A Nepalese delegation from the town of Madhyapur Thimi was welcomed by Swindon’s Mayor, Mr Kevin Parry during a recent visit.

The guests, Mr Madan Shrestha, Mayor of Madhyapur Thimi and Chair of the Madhyapur Thimi-Swindon Friendship Group, Mr Shankar Kayasta, Vice Chair of the Group and Principal of Glory School, and Mr Birendra Shrestha, Secretary of the Group and Principal of Supreme Academy, were welcomed to the mayor’s parlour where they discussed the future of links between the two towns.

There was an exchange of gifts between the Mayors and Mr Kayasta gave a short presentation on Madhyapur Thimi.

They arrived in Swindon on their first visit as guests of the Swindon-Madhyapur Thimi Friendship Group. The visitors also visited the University of

Bath to participate in Placement Provider Talks to BA Hons Psychology and Education students.

Previously five students from the University have carried out placements at Glory School in Madhyapur Thimi.

During their weeklong stay, they also visited Avebury and the Kennet Long Barrow, were interviewed by Swindon 105.5, visited Steam and Lawn Manor Academy where Mr Kayasta gave a presentation to staff and pupils about Glory School.

The delegation also attended Remembrance Sunday Service at the Cenotaph and following this, after the event, the delegation visited Buckhurst Community centre where they met President of the exservicemen’s association, Iman Gurung, and shared a meal with former Ghurkhas.

Swindon couple take on 3,000-mile rowing challenge in aid of charities

By Claire Dukes claire@positive-media.co.uk

A couple from Swindon are taking on "one of the toughest challenges on the planet" by rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in aid of four charities.

In December 2020 team of four, Generation Gap, will be braving 50-foot waves and painful salt sores by rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic for charity.

Victoria Micó Egea, 29, and Edward Raymont, 28, - a couple from Liden - will be setting sail with their teammates - father and daughter - Rodger Staniforth, 58, and Brittany Staniforth, 27, on 13 December 2020.

The challenge, and time leading up to December 2020, will see the team raise money for Mind, the Royal Marines Charity, Women's Aid and Rural Action Nepal. The team has a thirty-one-year age gap between their youngest and eldest member which inspired

NW December artwork.indd 19

L to R: Brittany Staniforth, Edward Raymont, Victoria Micó Egea and Rodger Staniforth

the team name.

Team Generation Gap will cross La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean - amongst 30 other competitors from across the globe - as part of the 2020 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.

The rowers will alternate by rowing two hours on and two hours off the entire duration of the crossing - which for some, can last more than 100 days.

Victoria Micó Egea says the challenge will include 50-

foot waves, powerful storms, wildlife, painful salt sores and blistering.

She said: "Rowing the Atlantic is one of the most formidable challenges on the planet.

"More people have been into space, and been at the top of the Everest, than have rowed the Atlantic, and it is rightly considered as one of the toughest challenges on the planet.

"Team members have been competitive rowers, climbed tall mountains, ran long (and

ultra-long!) distances, and even completed the training to become a Royal Marine Commando. Clearly our team have a strong sense of adventure and commitment and are always up for an adventure, and the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge does tick the two boxes really well!"

Throughout the duration of the rowing challenge the teammates will stay aboard the boat in open water.

After discussing the idea over some beers, friends and rowing partners Victoria and Brittany say the realities of the challenge are now sinking in.

Brittany Staniford said: "It will be tough out there - imagine seeing land going off into the distance and having nowhere to escape to just go for a walk and stretch your legs.

"Having insight and awareness will hopefully get us to the other side in one piece and still be friends!" swindonlink.com n December 2019

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The Business Brief Excalibur hosts Swindon Business & Economy Meeting At the most recent meeting of the Swindon Business & Economy group, guest speakers from the public and private sector joined together to discuss diverse topics relevant to the local business environment.

Taking place at the offices of Swindon’s Excalibur Communications, Ian Larrard set the scene for the meeting, before introducing Dave Battrick as Initiative Manager.

Dave joined the Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative in October following a 12 year stint at the Federation of Small Businesses, where he worked as a Membership Advisor and South West Regional Sales Manager.

Peter Boucher, CEO of Excalibur Communications, which hosted the meeting, spoke briefly about the CityFibre project, .

Paddy Bradley, director of SWLEP, is leading the charge in laying the groundwork for businesses to meet these challenges through the local industrial strategy.

Fresh from the recent SWLEP Conference, where draft local industrial strategy for Swindon & Wiltshire took centre stage, Paddy stressed the need for increased R&D activity if the region is to thrive under the fourth industrial revolution.

At present, Dyson accounts for the majority of R&D spend in Swindon & Wiltshire, said Paddy, who identified the lack of university and a science park in the region as one of the main barriers to upping the level of R&D here. Paddy went on to suggest that the best approach to overcoming this hurdle would involve public and private sector partners working together in priority sectors for the region.

Philippa Venables, Head of Strategic Growth and Place at Swindon Borough Council, gave a wide-ranging overview of current economic development initiatives in the Borough.

Philippa gave an update on a number of developments as part of the Swindon masterplan, including Kimmerfields, the Fleming Way Bus Boulevard, Station Arrival Quarter, Swindon Cultural Quarter and Wichelstowe.

Philippa also gave an insight into ongoing discussions with regard to Swindon joining ‘England’s economic heartland’, which would provide new connectivity with Oxford and Cambridge, in addition to the proposed Great Western

Powerhouse.

Anthony Lovell de Souza, crowdfunding advisor, delivered an engaging presentation on the state of crowdfunding and how it could benefit some of the businesses assembled. Afterwards Business West Director of Policy spoke about Business West’s Trading Through Brexit service, before Ian Larrard offered his concluding remarks.

Ian invited businesses to get involved with the planned manufacturing cluster group for Swindon & Wiltshire.

The region has a strong manufacturing sector and the cluster group is intended to bring together manufacturers from across the region to help tackle shared challenges around skills, infrastructure and more.

Ian also spoke about the upcoming Swindon Science Festival, which is being sponsored by Business West to help inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers in the region.

Business leaders get a look at hydrogen-powered Hyundai Swindon's business leaders were given the chance to get behind the wheel of a hydrogen-powered Hyundai at a networking event celebrating Swindon's place at the forefront of the fuel technology.

The Hyundai Nexo – one of only a handful on Britain's roads – was supplied by Swindon-based motor dealer Pebley Beach, the phase 1 UK distributor of the groundbreaking SUV. And addressing the meeting of Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce at the town's Marriott Hotel on Friday, November 1 was the lead scientist in the technology.

Dr Angus Dickinson works for Johnson Matthey, the West Swindon-based chemicals firm that manufacturers the fuel cells that drive the Hyundai 20

Phil Brodrick of Pebley Beach and Dr Angus Dickinson from Johnson Matthey

Nexo and other hydrogenpowered vehicles.

He reminded networkers that Swindon is the only place outside London with two hydrogen refuelling stations – one is at Johnson Matthey, the other at Honda – and that the work that goes on at Lydiard Fields puts the town at the vanguard of an automotive fuel revolution.

"Hydrogen fuel cells have always been talked of as the power source of ten years'

time," said Angus, "but it's being used right now. Ninety percent of our fuel cell products are being exported to China – it's a huge export market for us. Every car manufacturer in the world has a hydrogen programme. They see plug-in electric vehicles as a stop-gap while hydrogen technology is adopted."

Angus heads a team of 200 people developing and making fuel cells – up from a handful ten years ago. The technology

developed in Swindon is the heart of hydrogen cars – powered by electricity generated by a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.

Hydrogen cars emit nothing more harmful than water. In fact, the Hyundai Nexo purifies the air as it goes – an indicator on the dashboard tells the driver how much particulate matter has been removed from the atmosphere.

The refuelling process also feels more familiar to drivers of petrol and diesel car drivers. Hydrogen-powered cars are refuelled at a pump and deliver a range of hundreds of miles.

A new technology, there are still only eight or nine hydrogen-powered vehicles on Swindon's roads – and half of them are Hyundais.

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We shall remember them - Swindon falls silent in tribute Veterans, serving members of the armed forces and members of the public gathered at the Cenotaph in Regent Circus to honour those who gave their lives in conflict.

The national two-minute silence at 11am on November 11th is the 100th time that Armistice Day - the annual act of remembrance - has been held since it was introduced in 1919 to honour the fallen in the Great War.

"It’s a great addition" - free ping pong available at The Brunel Town Centre shoppers can now enjoy playing free table tennis at the The Brunel Centre's Ping Pong Parlour.

The Parlour, which can be found on the top floor of The Brunel Arcade near to The Crossing, offers two tables and will be open during normal centre opening hours An additional table, in another location within the centre, will be added in the coming weeks.

There is no charge and bats and balls are provided.

The Brunel have teamed up with Table Tennis England, the sport’s National Governing Body, to bring this project to life. Jane Stewart, Centre Manager said: “We’re really pleased the free

Ping Pong Parlour has joined us at The Brunel.

"It’s a great addition to the facilities at The Crossing and we’re expecting it to be really popular with both adults and children alike.”

Ping Pong Parlours have already opened up in more than 50 other shopping centres nationwide and form part of Table Tennis England’s vision to inspire people to get active and lead happier, healthier lifestyles by introducing table tennis into unexpected, nontraditional places.

Other initiatives delivered by Table Tennis England helping to achieve this, include Ping!, a street ping pong project which

places hundreds of outdoor tables in public places of towns and cities; Loop, which introduces table tennis into the

workplace; and Ping in the Community, which provides table tennis opportunities for community organisations. swindonlink.com n December 2019

NW December artwork.indd 21

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15/11/2019 13:32

Swindon Life

Celebrating town living

It's beginning to feel a lot like...

Christmas!

Former Swindon Town legend Chris Kamara has swapped the football pitch for the recording studio as he prepares to release his debut album - a festive delight entitled Here’s to Christmas.

The 61-year-old explained that anyone who might have shared a changing room with

him may have had a sneak preview of his hitherto hidden musical talent.

“I am a fan of big band music. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d get to record a full album, though!”

“Here’s to Christmas is something I’m really proud of and I think it stands up as something

fun, but something that doesn’t sound half bad too – an album to get everyone into the swing of Christmas!”

The album of covers features a range of Christmas classics including Let It Snow, Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer, Jingle Bells and Walking In A Winter Wonderland.

swindonlink.com n December 2019

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Swindon Spotlight

YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTHS AHEAD In the community l The Victoria's annual 12 Bands of Christmas returns Saturday 14 December.

Featuring some of Swindon's best musical talent this year's line-up includes Basement Club, YVES, The Harlers, Kaleido Bay, Chaney and Wilding.

Tickets: £8. www.seetickets.com/event/12bands-of-christmas/the-vic

Book now...

WESTLIFE TO PLAY KINGSHOLM STADIUM IN JULY 2020

Westlife – the UK’s top album selling group of the 21st Century – will tour the UK in 2020 with their 15-date 'Stadiums in the Summer Tour'.

The summer tour comes to Gloucester’s Kingsholm Stadium on Sunday 12 July, and will see the pop kings perform all of their greatest hits including ‘Swear It Again’, ‘Flying Without Wings’ and ‘You Raise Me Up’ as well as new songs from their forthcoming new album ‘Spectrum’.

The band say, “The reaction to our comeback tour was beyond anything any of us ever imagined so we’re going to do it all over again but this time in some of the largest outdoor venues in the UK. The shows are going to be incredible and will include all our greatest hits. We can’t wait to perform at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester."

For further information and tickets visit www.tickets.gloucesterrugby.co.uk

DAVID BADDIEL RETURNS TO TOWN

Award-winning comedian David Baddiel returns to Swindon's Wyvern Theatre with his new one-man show ‘Trolls: Not The Dolls’ 4 April 2020. He has stories to tell of the dark and hysterically absurd cyber-paths that trolls have led him down.

Tickets £31.50 www.swindontheatres.com

IT'S PANTO TIME AT THE WYVERN

Michelle Collins, Chris Jarvis and Matthew Rixon lead this year's star-studded pantomime at the Wyvern Theatre!

The classic tale of Sleepy Beauty hits the stage from Sat 7 Dec 2019 to Sun 5 Jan 2020.

Tickets £13 - £32.50 www.swindontheatres.com

ROCK FOR HELP THE HEROES 10 January will see Rock for Heroes bring its tour to the Wyvern Theatre. Music and artists such as Queen, David Bowie, Van Halen, Toto, Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses, AC/DC and Dire Straits is brought to life in aid of the Help for Heroes charity.

Tickets from £22.00 www.swindontheatres.com

Venues

Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 www.swindontheatres.co.uk Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square SN1 5BP. Tel: 01793 420649 The Platform, Faringdon Road, Swindon SN1 5BJ

Phoenix Theatre, New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. Tel: 01793 732889 The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Tel: 01793 534238 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Tel: 07340 758497 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. Tel: 01793 763907

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Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Email: shoebox@wrongshoes.co.uk Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 535713 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 - www.swindontheatres.co.uk Confirm date, time & price with venue

l Staff from Thames Water are raising money for charities through their annual pantomine. This year's panto, Cinderella, will be raising money for charities including Swindon Night Shelter and Big Breakfast Plus. Shows: Deanery CE Academy in Peglars Way, Swindon, on Friday 31 Jan and Saturday 1 Feb. Tickets: £12. www.ticketsource.co.uk/ twpanto l Christ Chruch is hosting a charity carol concert in aid of Swindon Carers Centre - 3 Dec at 6.30pm. £5 ticket (includes welcome drink and nibbles.)

Contact Becky: 07912594238 l All are welcome to Carols in the Park outside Lydiard House on 18 December at 6.30pm for Christmas carols. Organised by the West Swindon and Lydiard Tregoze Church Partnership. l Arkell’s Outdoor Christmas Food & Craft Market (Hyde Road, Swindon) will be returning Saturday 7 Dec from 10am to 3pm, featuring festive fun and food. Free entry. l For all you normal blokes: Wessex Male Choir will be hosting a taster event on 14 January. No experience required just an interest.

Email membership@ wessexmalechoir.co.uk

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Swindon Town: 'a return to relentless early season form?'

By Alfie Howlett publisher@swindonlink.com

In recent games Swindon Town have seen a return to their relentless early season form instead of their injury hampered early autumn. This switch in form is down to two key factors in my opinion.

Firstly Richie Wellens is having an almost fit squad to select from every match day, but the main factor has to be the simply sensational Eoin Doyle.

When I last wrote Swindon were heavily hampered by injuries. But this was mainly down to key players being injured and a lack of firepower from the bench. However lately Richie Wellens has been able to name a more or less full strength starting eleven. The Swindon starting eleven is easily one of the strongest in League Two so when Town have

been able to select their best eleven it's no wonder they're picking up points again.

The returns of Zeki Fryers and Diallang Jaiyesimi have undoubtedly aided Swindon's recent return to form. Fryers who is a left back by name has been partnered with Mathieu Baudry at the heart of defence. Fryers has been able to fill the hole that the injury of Dion Conroy left with his attributes on the ball while still being defensively solid. With Fryers slotting in at centre back it's given Dion Donohue a chance to show his credentials at left back, and he hasn't disappointed. Donohue has become a favourite of the Town faithful down to the aggression and tenacity he shows while on the pitch.

After picking up a training injury a couple of days after signing on loan from Norwich,

Swindon fans are now finally seeing the best of Diallang Jaiyesimi. By making his first start at home and scoring the winner, Jaiyesimi is beginning to establish himself as a vital part of the Swindon team.

The recent discussion around the County Ground is fixated on the man being dubbed the ginger Pele. Eoin Doyle, at the time of writing, was head and shoulders at the top of League Two scoring charts. At times this season only Bayern Munich ace Robert Lewandowski could match Doyle's scoring record. But the big question is will he still be playing in a Swindon shirt come January?

Doyle is on loan from League Two rivals Bradford and is eligible to be recalled by the Bantams in January. We can rule out Doyle being bought by another team come January as he can't play for three clubs

within a season and Doyle has played for Bradford twice already this season. So really the question is do Bradford want to keep Doyle? Doyle was loaned out to Swindon to free up the wage bill at Bradford, with the money Bradford then bought in other players. Doyle is however the top scorer in the league and if at the end of the season Bradford missed out on promotion through Doyle's goals there would be uproar among the Bradford fans.

This leads you on to the question: will Swindon try and secure Doyle on a permanent deal? Doyle at the age of 31 would financially not make money in the future however he can easily do a job in League Two and One. We can only speculate on the Doyle scenario but on the pitch he and Town have seen a well timed return to form.

Cycling in the chillier months - it's not as bad as you think!

By Becky Cox: Swindon Cycle Campaign So last month I wrote about why making journeys by bike isn’t just for the warmer months and providing you are prepared it’s perfectly safe and easy to cycle all year round. I enjoy cycling throughout the seasons and I find that the conditions usually look and sound a lot worse outside that they actually are.

Once you’re out there it’s really not as bad as you think.. honest!

This month I’ll share some tips on cycling on those frostier days.

Firstly, here are a few reasons I enjoy cycling in the chillier months: - It makes me feel ‘alive’! I love bright, frosty days and the landscape can be truly beautiful - I enjoy wrapping up warm in big scarves, gloves and a feeling a bit Scandinavian… or ‘hygge’!

- My commute helps me warm me up and wake me up.

Of course, there is a scale of

acceptability with cycling (or indeed walking or driving) in the ice/snow, and you need to decide on some days whether it is really safe to make the journey. Black ice tends to be the biggest thing to be aware of. Plan your route in advance, choosing well-used paths and roads, avoiding those shady cycle paths where the sun may not have reached yet. Incorporating bus routes is normally a good choice as they tend to always be treated with salt. Try to avoid cycling over drain covers and areas where water pools, taking

particular care when cornering.

Also ensure that you take a prominent position in the road so you can be seen and take the safest path.

Regarding your bike, it needs to be sturdy, ideally a hybrid or mountain bike with wide, grippy tyres – however most bikes can be adapted.

My three-geared shopping bike gets put aside on the snowy days in favour of one with thicker tyres and a few more gears. Travelling a bit slower and in an easier gear will mean that you are more prepared if you hit a slippery

patch and need to put your foot down. Also consider lowering your saddle a bit to enable you to get off quickly if you need to, remember you can always walk if you’re not sure. And if you do catch yourself on an icy patch, try to not panic, stay straight and avoid peddling.

No specialist clothes are needed for cycling in winter really, the most important thing is a good pair of gloves and plenty of layers to keep off the windchill. An extra layer of socks will also help ensure you can still feel your toes when you get to your destination!

As always, make sure that you are visible, wearing bright or reflective clothing and lighting up your bike – I like to add some fairy lights around my basket to add some festive cheer in December!

I hope those tips have helped inspire you to get out and enjoy the frostier days, it really is worth it, but remember to check the weather forecast first and judge whether you feel safe to ride.

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Christmas: save the dates

Swindon Santa vs Rudolph Fun Run

Full Steam ahead for festive fun

A traditional Christmas made at Avebury

Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club's Santa Fun Run returns to Lydiard Park, Sunday 1 December.

Santas of all shapes and sizes are invited to walk, jog or run a 3Km, 5Km or 10Km course in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Brighter Futures.

This year you have a choice of a Santa Hat (no suits) or Antlers. Collect your hats and your race numbers between 9.30am and 10.30am from the registration point on the day. The event will start at 11am. www.swindonsanta.org.uk

The sounds of Christmas cheer will emanate from Steam – Museum of the Great Western Railway as it is turned into a Christmas Wonderland on 1 December, 10am - 5pm.

Visitors will have the chance to buy festive treats and discover unique gift ideas as they browse 50 artisan market stalls displayed among the GWR story-telling exhibits and legendary locomotives. This year’s live performances include The Kentwood Show Choir. www.steam-museum.org.uk

Christmas at Avebury Manor is a calm and relaxing experience, reminiscent of times long past.

For those craving frosty air and deep blue skies, join archaeologist Dr Nick Snashall for a winter walk and talk around the stone circles. The walks are on 5 & 12 Dec, 10.30am-12.30pm (including mince pies and liqueur) at £16.

Music, lights and merriment will fill the Old Farmyard at Avebury on 7 Dec, 4-6pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury

Festivities on the farm: Christmas at Studley Grange As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, thoughts turn to the up and coming festive season - and Christmas has definitely arrived at Studley Grange!

At the heart of the Garden Centre is the Garden Restaurant, where you will find a delicious menu offering a range of freshly prepared meals, using fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and growers. Bookings are being taken for our Christmas Lunch, available up to 21 December.

Familes can also meet Santa in our wonderful Grotto Experience!

A path of trees will lead you to Santa, where you’ll be met by elves and have 10 minutes with Santa before going to his workshop to pick a present. You can also meet a variety of Santa’s animals that have come along with him.

Even though it’s cold out, the butterfly house is warm and full of butterflies and the soft play offers an inside day out for the kids.

Also, the animals on the farm are growing their winter coats, staying 26

warm but are still out and about for the children to come and meet.

Find the perfect Christmas gifts amongst the many Christmas decorations and products in our Garden Centre, along with small independent retailers in our Craft Village selling handmade items, crafts, photographs, toys, treatments and more. Lots of different businesses have set up shop here selling a variety of products/services, including Ferris Photographics, - who offer family and pet photography - Cast and Present, - offering hand, foot and paw prints cast in silver and Harebell Handmade - a block printing workshop and gift shop, offering the perfect creative craft destination and selling canvas prints, notebooks, calendars and other small gift items.

If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas tree this year, an array of real and artificial trees are available to buy in store.

Visit the website for information on booking: www.studleygrange.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Skoda Superb SW Estate: 'almost unbeatable' family estate

By Motoring Writer Leigh Robinson publisher@swindonlink.com

Thirty years ago Skoda were just an average Eastern European car manufacturer from Czechoslovakia renowned for bad jokes and poor vehicles....

How things have changed.

As well as being one of the longest-established vehicle manufacturers in the world, Skoda started car production in Mladá Boleslav with their Voiturette A developed by the company founders Laurin

and Klement. The company has actually been running for 125 years and this year they celebrated building their 22 millionth car.

Because they are now so successful, more than a quarter of those 22 million have been built in the last five years.

Thanks to VW, who recognised what a prize they had when they took them over and to the Chinese who just love them and are both buying

them and building them in vast quantities.

I’ve just had their Skoda Superb SE Estate on test and what a good car it is, not cheap though, coming in at almost £28,000 but its quality is second to none.

With demand for their petrol engines continuing to grow, the new powerplant is the perfect option for drivers looking to combine agile performance with exceptional refinement

and efficiency.

The Superb has the 1.5TSI 150PS engine with a seven speed DSG gearbox which is quite brilliant. The maximum speed is 130mph with 0-60mph in around nine seconds, but more important the economy is almost 40mpg and CO2 is 125g/km.

As far as family estate cars go, the Superb Estate is almost unbeatable. It has an enormous boot with the quality feel of a premium car, yet costs the same as a family hatchback.

It is certainly good value for money.

If you put the back seats down you could almost put on a play in the back and with them up the Superb Estate has the kind of rear legroom where even those over six-foot have enough space in the back. A good mover.

Additional information relating to ŠKODA offers and finance can be found at www. skoda.co.uk/car-finance/newcar-offers.

MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tadpole Farm School, Greene Street, Tadpole Garden Village, Swindon SN25 2QS - Lisa L 07414 540866 MONDAYS 7.30pm Ridgeway House, The Lawns, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AN - Lou 07543 860421 TUESDAYS 6.30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Hugo Drive, Abbey Meads SN25 4G - Carrieanne 07864 839820 TUESDAYS 7.30pm Westlea Primary School, Langstone Way, Westlea SN5 7BT - Gill 07707 031305 WEDNESDAYS 9.30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Western Community Centre, Somerset Road, Rodbourne Cheney SN2 1NE - Pete 07535 637418 WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Francis School, Aiken Way, Taw Hill SN25 1UH - Heather Z 07816 860840 THURSDAYS 9am*, 11am*, 5.30pm & 7.30pm (*new times from 14th November) St Johns Church, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick SN25 1QQ - Sharon 07841 119082 FRIDAYS 9.30am & 11.30am Redhouse Community Centre, Frankel Avenue SN25 2NJ - Heather Z 07816 860840 SATURDAYS 8am, 10am & 12 noon Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road, Freshbrook SN5 8LY - Louise 07784 098022 Terms and conditions apply: visit better.org.uk/terms for details. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398

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Swindon Lives

By Ben Fitzgerald

WITH: Tyler Ody

Horizon's College Student Tyler Ody has been volunteering at the Swindon Link on a weekly basis. In that time, Tyler, who has Asberger's, has developed his confidence and skills.

In his own words, Tyler writes about his experience of challenging himself to achieve great things in the workplace, his hobbies and thoughts for the future.

Tyler, can you tell us a little about yourself?

I'm Tyler Ody. I am a 19-yearold student from Haydon Wick. I have one younger sister called Teagan.

What are your hobbies or interests?

My hobbies and interests are listening to music, going to the gym, watching TV box sets and socialising with family and friends.

You have recently been doing some work experience at 28

Swindon 105.5 community radio station can you tell us a bit about what you did there, the things you learned and perhaps some of your favourite moments.

The things I learnt about is how to edit features I recorded before they go on the airwaves. I also learnt how to use the studio desk. I've learnt a lot about radio in the two years that I have been there.

And more recently, you have been working for us at the Swindon Link magazine - can you let our readers know about the sort of things that you have been doing, and what you have learned while working as part of the team.

What I do at Swindon Link is writing up and editing articles to be published on the Link website and to preview articles before they go online.

I have also learnt to write my

own articles without help and how to keep things clear for the reader. I get on well with the staff and I love every second that I'm there.

You seem to be interested in the media world‌ is this something that you would like to do more of in the future?

I would definitely love to do more experience in journalism in the future.

What sort of job would you like to do in later life?

In later life I would love to work in television but if not I would like to work in magazines and newspapers or on the radio.

You are being supported by Horizons College at the moment - how have the staff there helped you to make the move from the world of education to the world of work?

I have been at Horizons

College for a year and I love it there. The staff have been really supportive in getting me into work experience with Swindon Link and I am really grateful for the opportunity.

I really enjoy my two days of work experience a week (one day with Swindon 105.5 and one with Swindon Link) What barriers do you you think they have helped you to overcome?

They have helped me to become more confident in the workplace.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?

If I had one superpower it would be to be magic so I can make objects disappear without a trace.

In a list of questions - should there always be ten?

Definitely a yes from me.

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Gems from Swindon's art collection on show at Civic Offices Swindon Borough Council’s Civic building has become a new home for a selection of items in Swindon’s prized art collection.

The pop-up art exhibition, which represents the second phase of the council’s Art on Tour project, features works by some of Britain’s most important painters, as well as artists with a strong connection to Wiltshire and Swindon.

The Art on Tour project, which was launched at the Steam Museum in September, aims to bring the town's collection to a wider audience by displaying it at various locations around the town.

The collections are currently housed at the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery on Bath Road, but the museum’s potential for reaching a wide audience is generally considered to be quite limited, with space at a premium and school visits not being easy to accommodate.

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Curator Sophie Cummings at the new exhibition at the Civic Offices.

The success of the Steam exhibition has convinced the council to display the collection in a variety of locations.

Eighteen paintings are currently on show at the civic offices including work by Claude Francis Barry, Roger Fry, Sylvia Gosse and Desmond Morris.

Also featured is David Bent’s contemporary digital collage,

‘Mr & Mrs Aerobot and Babybot’, which was acquired by the museum in 2017 as part of a project to celebrate Wiltshire artists.

Also on show is a seascape of Studland Bay in 1911 and Claude Francis Barry’s striking wartime painting of Tower Bridge silhouetted by search lights, which was presented to Swindon in 1946 by local

business man Frederick Charles Phelps.

The works will be on display for the next six months and are free to view when the Civic is open.

Cllr Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, said: “I have always said that art should be seen and it’s a real shame to think that these important pieces aren’t reaching the audiences they deserve.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to head down to the Civic, free of charge, to see the paintings.”

The Art on Tour project will continue to share Swindon’s collections in new and creative ways. If residents would like to learn more about the project, or have suggestions for civic and public buildings in Swindon where collections could be displayed, contact swindonmag@swindon.gov.uk.

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We've saved lives. Have you?

Wiltshire Air Ambulance has saved countless lives since they began operating in 1990. Can you help them to save people in the future?

By leaving a gift in your Will to Wiltshire Air Ambulance you will be leaving a lifesaving legacy.

Two people who have done just this are Sue Williams and her partner Dave Woodland.

Sue’s life was saved after she was airlifted by Wiltshire Air Ambulance to Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, following a serious road traffic collision on the A303 at Chicklade in April 2012.

Sue suffered life-threatening and life-changing injuries in the accident. She broke her back, neck, left arm, a rib and sustained a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury.

As a result of Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s intervention Sue and Dave, who have been together for 21 years and

live in Warminster, decided to leave a gift in their Wills to the charity.

Sue, 50, said: “Wiltshire Air Ambulance saved my life and I want to ensure they are able to save lives in the future when I pass away. Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a valuable lifesaving resource available to all. I wouldn’t be here today without them.”

Dave, 49, said: “Without Wiltshire Air Ambulance I would have lost Sue and so having made such a difference to my life, I want to ensure they can carry on doing their wonderful work after my life ends.”

Legacy gifts are an important source of funds for the charity.

On average one in three

missions they undertake is paid for by gifts in Wills.

They are not funded directly by the Government and receive no National Lottery grants and rely on donations from the community, businesses and grant-making trusts to run our vital service.

A gift in your Will costs

nothing in your lifetime and means we can continue to save lives in the future.

To find out more information about leaving a gift in your Will please visit our website, where you can download a guide - www. wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/ gifts-in-wills/

Open daily from Friday 29th November

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Poetry column by Maurice Spillane: Three Men in a Pub

By Maurice Spillane publisher@swindonlink.com

There’s an outbreak of poetry around Christmas. I love it.

We’ve a special evening in the Village Hall in Liddington with carol singers from Bristol University followed by festive poems, and then there’s Santa (bless his Wiltshire accent!) It’s always a sell-out and I highly recommend it.

In the weeks leading up to the event I rehearse poems with local children and between us we put on a good show.

We finish with a tribute poem to one of the locals and sometimes it’s flattering. You can’t beat a ritual.

This year three men, David, Chris and Norman are the focus with a poem called 'Three Men in a Pub'. They’re stalwarts at the Village Inn, sitting in a corner by the bar. They watch the coming and going and comment drily or raucously to each other or quietly to anyone

who joins in. Every pub has this coterie and the poem is a tribute to them. Here are a few verses: They sit on bar stools like high court judges their sphere an arc across a country inn.

They smile and nod as people come by, hoovering the imagery. Let the evening begin.

These men are an oil painting, benign locals of disparate ages, disparate

flues who stack comments like betting slips, bits of wonder about others, about the derring-do.

They are the voice of the community, expect high standards, their concerns particular to the village yet often universal. A politician would do well to buy a round, be a listener.

A busy month around Swindon:

• Reading Group – Monday 2 December, 7-9pm Richard Jefferies Museum • Beehive Pub – Tuesday 10 December, 7:30pm • Open Mic – Monday 16 December, 7:30pm Regent Hotel, Victoria Road • Liddington Poems & Carols – Friday 13 December, 7:30 Village Hall Happy Christmas Everyone! www.mauricespillane.com/ three-men-in-a-pub/

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SERVICE SECTOR

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIR, ELECTRICAL SERVICES, GARAGE DOORS, HOME IMPROVEMENTS, KITCHENS

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part P Registered Part P Registered

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

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and

● General carpentry ● Fitted kitchens/bedrooms ● Laminate and solid flooring ● Replacement doors ● Skirtings/architraves ● General building maintenance

Complete Rewires • • Complete Rewires No job too small!

• • No job too small!

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

Certified Electrician NICEIC Domestic Installers (D606759)

Reliable Local Company • Re-Wires, Alterations & Additions • Inspections, Testing & Certificates • Consumer Units Replaced • LED Lighting Installations • Emergency Lighting • Fix Wire Testing

01793 877677 office@enlan.co.uk www.enlan.co.uk

ACP

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

Tel 01793 940096 Email info@dgds.co.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

• Carpentry • Garden maintenance • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen installation • Fencing & Patios • Power jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive rates, flexible hours, reliable, no job too small For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

DECORATING & CARPENTRY

Home Improvements & Building Services • • • • • • • •

General building maintenance Garage conversions Bathrooms and Kitchens Carpentry • Wall & floor tiling Plastering/Plaster boarding/Coving UPVC doors, windows & repairs Fascias, soffits, guttering Patios and fencing Insurance work undertaken For a prompt professional service contact Andy: 07969 350160 / 01793 610286 www.acphomeimprovements.co.uk

• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen & bathroom refits • Shower wall board installation • Internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

andysweeney1@virginmedia.com

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

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879 email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

Grange Kitchens • Extensive range of styles • Complete installation or supply only • All makes of appliances

55,000

• Competitive prices • Complimentary full CAD design service

Tel: 01793 848405 or 07793 932481

137,500

01793 320043

www.grangekitchens.co.uk

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SERVICE SECTOR

PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES, PLANS DRAWN, PLUMBING AND GAS SERVICES

DECORATOR Quality painting and decorating at an affordable price

For professional, reliable and friendly service call

137,500

01793 320043

GBD Services 01793 979282 or 07453 966627

DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT • High class painting and decorating •30 years experience •Competitive rates •Interior & exterior •References available •Reliable friendly service, all work undertaken For free quotation call Paul on

01793 321981 07775 840236

Call Andy on

07970 533569

between 8am and 5pm

PLANS DRAWN Domestic & commercial Internal & external Wallpaper specialist

19 years experience Fully insured Excellent references Discounts for senior citizens FREE no obligation quotation not an estimate!

(Unlike many of our competitors)

01793 264568 07415 431340

garyfulford1@sky.com www.garyfulfordpaintingand decorating.co.uk

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

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

eco r at &D

t er

Interior & exterior painting and decorating.

20 years serving local people.

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

Pa in

55,000

PR ID E

40 years experience No VAT Free estimates

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

or

FREE ESTIMATES

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

J&R Plumbing Providing plumbing services to clients throughout Swindon 35 years experience Friendly, reliable service 24/7 call out service Tel: 01793 938362 Mobile: 07813 950899

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work

• Central heating 188262

• Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

10 YEAR GUARANTEE (subject to survey)

on Worcester Bosch Ri Si and Cdi boilers

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 870472 or 07747 723606

36

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SERVICE SECTOR

PLUMBING AND GAS SERVICES, REMOVALS, ROOFING SERVICES, TILING, WASTE REMOVAL, WINDOWS

M.P.S.

Plumbing & Heating

Heating Services

217129

Combi Boiler Swap from £1300 Gas Central Heating Repairs & Servicing

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

07845 90 80 60 or 01793 700 820

We will guarantee to BEAT any like for like quote!

www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

Haydon Wick Heating Services

All heating and plumbing works undertaken • 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

hwheating@googlemail.com

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

01793 288772 07748 964433

Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

CALL 01793 522579 or MOBILE 07816 906437 Email: matt@mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk 67416

Semi-retired Plumber SURESTOP SWITCH installed for hard to get at or seized stop cock

• Disabled extra high toilets fitted • Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

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

NEW: Licensed to remove fridges

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

GILES BROS • Felt Roofing • Liquid Plastics • Single-Ply • Slate and Tiling • Fascias and Guttering • General Repairs • Free Estimates Over 40 years experience in the industry

Call Nick on 07973 872266

FLOOR & WALL TILING SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526 Find us on Facebook

55,000

137,500

01793 320043

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13

19

14 20

14

12

17

18

21

22

24 26

23

25 22

23

15

27

28

30

32

31

DOWN

1.

5.

9.

10.

11.

12.

1.

2.

3.

4.

6.

7.

8.

13.

14.

16.

18.

20.

21.

23.

25.

28.

29.

31.

Vista (8) Reptile (abbrev.) (4) Mounted soldiers (7) Blacksmith’s block (5) Thick mist (3) Consisting of more than one (6) Faint glow (5) Cowshed (4) Yellow-flowered herb (6) Confer holy orders (6) Religious cult (4) Ancient Mexican (5) Dispute price (6) Be in debt (3) Credo (anag.) (5) Fourth part (7) Naked (4) Uneasy (8)

S

I

P

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.

1

35

ACROSS

15.

17.

19.

22.

24.

26.

27.

30.

32.

33.

34.

35.

31

33

34

I M O

SUDOKU

29 24

R E V

Agreement (4) New (5) Monarch (5) Short-lived insect (6) Warm coastal district (7) Mineral used in lotion (8) Sharp weapon (6) Vase (3) Competent (4) Occasionally (3,3,2) Duty cycle (4) Spotted (7) Bodyguard (6) Excavate (3) Money order (6) Very large person (5) Machine tool (5) Greek god of love (4)

7

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

SOLUTIONS

13 Urn; 14 Able; 16 Off and on; 18 Rota; 20 Noticed; 21 Escort; 23 Dig; 25 Cheque; 28 Giant; 29 Lathe; 31 Eros.

12

16

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).

QUICK CROSSWORD Across – 1 Panorama; 5 Croc; 9 Cavalry; 10 Anvil; 11 Fog; 12 Plural; 15 Gleam; 17 Byre; 19 Fennel; 22 Ordain; 24 Sect; 26 Aztec; 27 Haggle; 30 Owe; 32 Decor; 33 Quarter; 34 Nude; 35 Restless.

10

19 Good; 22 Very Good; 26 Excellent.

10

Down – 1 Pact; 2 Novel; 3 Ruler; 4 Mayfly; 6 Riviera; 7 Calamine; 8 Dagger;

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 emir; impi; impose; improv; improve; IMPROVISE; isomer; mire; miser; miso; moire; mope; moper; more; move; mover; movie; perm; pismire; poem; pome; prim; prime; primo; prism; proem; prom; promise; rime; romp; semi; simper; some; sperm; verism; verismo; vomer.

10

MAGIC SQUARE drum; ripe; upon; mend.

9

RUINED MODERN PUMP

8 4 3 7 5 1 6 9 2

8

MAGIC SQUARE

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:

6 7 9 2 3 8 4 1 5

7

2 1 5 4 6 9 8 7 3

6

5 8 1 9 2 7 3 4 6

NONAGRAM 5

3 9 4 6 1 5 2 8 7

5

7 6 2 8 4 3 9 5 1

4

9 2 6 5 7 4 1 3 8

3

4 3 7 1 8 2 5 6 9

2

1 5 8 3 9 6 7 2 4

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

Valuation Day opportunity with Thomas Forrester TV expert on Flog It! The Antiques Road Trip & Bargain Hunt

Bring along your Antiques & Jewellery for a FREE valuation with Thomas, OR members of his team from Special Auction Services

Monday 9th December 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 the website

www.specialauctionservices.com

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MJA Roofing Ltd is a fast, friendly and reliable roofing company based in Purton, Swindon, Wiltshire.

We have over 30 years of experience, with all aspects of roof tiling, slating and lead work undertaken.

We provide a pragmatic, reliable & high quality service and would welcome the opportunity to quote for your requirements.

Tel: 01793 272142 or 07985 620677

Email: enquiry@mja-roofing.co.uk Website: www.mja-roofing.co.uk

Earthworm Recording Studio's Jon Buckett - photograph by Jennifer Berry

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