North West Swindon Link January 2021 edition

No 463 January 2021 GPS-tracked, door to door delivery to over 50,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 125,000

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FEATURES Check out our new features section page 21

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Swindon's first covid-19 vaccinations begin p4 Ooh, what a picture!

Swindon snapper Richard Wintle releases second book chronicling the town through the years p21 NW January Master pages.indd 1

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Goodbye 2020 By Group Editor Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

Tadpole Farm pupils do their bit to bring Christmas cheer to people who are struggling

Well that was quite a 365 days here on Planet Earth. 2020 was definitely a year that made me proud to be a Swindonian as people from every section of society really came out to help others in a time of need. For a lot of us 2021 will be a year to try and pick up the pieces and move on, to try and get things back to normalility. Already 2021 brings with it a sense of optimism, as with the vaccinations being rolled out the end of this nationwide trauma is now in sight. But even as things start to get back to normal there are still going to be a lot of people out there who need our help. Those that have struggled more than others during the awfulness of 2020 through trauma, mental health problems and financial losses. We need to be here for each other now more than ever as the after-effects of this pandemic will ripple out throughout the next few years. Ironically during this period of social distancing the communities of Swindon have never been closer together and let's hope that is here to stay so that no-one feels isolated from others again as they realise there are lots of lovely people willing to be there for them.

Children at Tadpole Farm CE Primary School collected and offered Christmas food donations for people in the community struggling to make ends meet at Christmas. The group came up with the idea and fellow pupils and their families responded enthusiastically to the call to help. Their donations will make the festive season easier for many people who are struggling. The appeal began in November and within about four weeks enough items were gathered to fill dozens of bags - with all preparations made in a covid-safe way. Each bag to be handed to a needy person or family was decorated with a personal Christmas message or a cheerful festive drawing. The project was led by teachers Anna Salter and Debra Wathen. Mrs Salter said: "What we did was put notices around to ask for donations, and we also put it on our blog, which goes out to all our parents and carers, to ask for donations to come into school. "We had quite a few - we're quite lucky, actually." The children who helped to lead the appeal have been learning about courageous advocacy - the importance of championiong good causes. Mrs Salter said: "I think it makes them more aware of everybody else around them.

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The Tadpole Farm students have been learning about champjoning good causes

We've talked a lot about values." During the classes, students were invited to think about the hardships others might be facing, and about how they might be helped to deal with those hardships. It was during these discussions that the idea for a festive food appeal took shape. Covid and the financial hardships many families and individuals have been suffering because of it figured strongly in the appeal and the response to it. As a result of the pandemic, many people have lost jobs or been forced to work reduced hours and survive on less money, in spite of still having household and family expenses to pay. Many faced a bleak festive season.

One Tadpole Farm student, Kaden Bromyard, said: "Because covid struck, some people don't have anything they might have lost their jobs or something. "We wanted to help them have a good Christmas." Another student, Annabel Barrass, said: "We asked for the children to bring some food in - the whole school - and then some children decorated the bags to say Merry Christmas and did some drawings on them." Fellow pupil Charlie Harker said: "People have less than other people - they might not have much money or have no job. "It would be nice for them to have a good Christmas just like us, and for everybody to have a good Christmas."

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Coronavirus news

Let's Do It For GWH campaign launched

Following the festive period, Swindon Borough Council is reminding residents that the new year does not mean the threat of coronavirus has gone away. To prevent the further spread of the virus in our community and to avoid overwhelming our NHS, the council is urging residents to follow the latest Government coronavirus guidance. While the roll-out of the covid-19 vaccine continues, coronavirus will continue to pose challenges across the community, particularly over the winter months, so taking the essential prevention measures and following government guidance must remain a priority for everyone in Swindon. Throughout 2020, staff at the Great Western Hospital were under increased pressure, working tirelessly to support patients, with many regular

wards converted to covid-19 wards to support the increasing number of admissions. With hospitals also now facing the additional pressures winter brings, the message to residents is clear. It’s up to all residents to play their part in limiting the spread of coronavirus in the community and to prevent overwhelming the NHS. Following the guidance is key to protecting themselves, their loved ones and the Great Western Hospital. Residents experiencing any coronavirus symptoms, no matter how mild, must stay at home. The symptoms to look out for are a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a loss of, or change to, people’s sense of smell or taste. Residents must also remember the key safety messages: hands, face, space. Crucially, anyone who has symptoms must also book a test immediately, either at a local

testing centre or by ordering a home testing kit, by calling 119 or visiting the NHS website. There are no shortcuts to protecting Swindon from coronavirus.

The Government website has up-to-date advice and frequently asked questions to ensure residents have the information they need to keep themselves and others safe.

86-year-old man first in Swindon to be given covid-19 vaccination As part of the Government's national rollout, Great Western Hospital gave its first patient the covid-19 vaccination on 9 December. During that morning, 86-yearold Alex Hale became the first patient in Swindon to receive the covid-19 vaccination. Mr Hale was given the covid-19 mRNA vaccine produced by Pfizer and BioNTech. A hospital spokesperson said: "A huge thank you to all of the staff who have worked so hard to make this happen - we are thrilled to be one of the 50 NHS Trusts leading on the biggest vaccination programme in the history of the NHS." Several vaccines against covid have been developed in labs across the world, with progress announced almost daily. Companies Modena and Pfizer have both announced 4

their vaccines with an effectiveness rate of more than 90 percent, based on tests involving tens of thousands of people. Both of these vaccines have to be stored at -70 degrees. The Oxford/AstraZeneca jab which has already been approved has been proven to have 70% efficacy and is easier for mass-vaccinations as it does not need to be stored using specialist equipment. In mid November it was announced that a major UK trial of a vaccine developed by a Belgian firm, Janssen, had begun. Creation of the Janssen vaccine, researchers said, involved genetically modifying the virus which causes the common cold. The Government has released a priority list of who should get

the vaccine first. During the initial first phase rollout frontline medical and care staff as well as care home residents are at the top of the list followed by those over 80, then going down in five year

increments to over 65s, then anyone with underlying health issues, then over 60s, over 55s and over 50s. It is hoped that everybody over 50 will be vaccinated in the first phase.

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Half-million tree target for Swindon Community Forest announced Swindon's Great Western Community Forest is to receive a share of a new £12.1m fund. In the next five months, the forest will be one of 10 across England planting more than 500 hectares of trees. In total, the trees to be planted across winter 2020 and into 2021 will eventually store over 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, and will also help in making local landscapes more resilient to the impacts of climate change. Swindon Borough Council says that, for people in the borough, the delivery programmes will offer a wide range of added benefits, unique to community forestry, including high levels of community engagement. Coun Keith Williams, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, said: “This is brilliant news for the borough of Swindon and the surrounding area and is a real boost to our carbon reduction strategy.

The community forest is among 10 in England taking part in an ambitious planting programme

“We are developing planting schemes in Highworth, Central Swindon (North) and on land south of the M4 as well as schemes just outside Swindon in the Vale of the White Horse District. “We will be working with our local communities and partner organisations to develop and

deliver the schemes, which will bring so many benefits to people’s health and wellbeing. “Our ambition is to plant 350 hectares of woodland, which is three times the size of Lydiard Park, so we are looking at planting roughly half a million trees." The forest is a key partner

in the new Trees for Climate programme, which is being delivered by the partnership of 10 community forest organisations that span the country, supported by The Community Forest Trust. An initial £12m of grant funding for the first planting session in 2020/21 has been secured from the Government’s Nature for Climate fund. The funding will also create new jobs and secure existing ones within the forestry sector and open up new opportunities for people seeking a career in the environment sector. The GWCF target is to support the planting of a total of approximately 350 hectares of woodland across the Great Western Community Forest over the five-year period of the programme. For the 2020-21 planting season, the GWCF’s target is to create just over 18 hectares of new woodland and trees.

Swindon couple take on the Atlantic in world's 'toughest' row By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

A team of four rowers including a couple from Swindon left dry land on Saturday 12 December to take on a 3,000mile non-stop row across the Atlantic. Team Generation Gap – a name chosen in recognition of the 31-year age gap between its oldest and youngest members - is taking part in the Talisker Whisky Challenge 2020, which left La Gomera in the Canary Islands on 12 December. The team chalks up two firsts and world records for the race, which draws participants from across the world. Its crew includes the first ever Spanish woman, and first father and daughter duo to take on the challenge. Swindon couple Victoria Micó Egea (30) and Edward Raymont (29), and father and daughter duo, Brittany Staniforth (27) and Roger 6

Staniforth (59), make up the four-man rowing Generation Gap team, who are aiming to arrive at the finish line in Antigua in a target of 42days, when they also hope to have hit their epic £100,000 fundraising target that will be shared between their chosen charities: Mind, The Royal Marines Charity, Rural Assistance Nepal and Women’s Aid. Before their departure the team’s skipper Edward Raymont, said: “It has definitely been a difficult few months as we have had to adjust to the new normal. Social distancing measures made rowing together in a small boat completely impossible, so we focused our training on building strength and stamina, doing virtual home workouts together whenever we could.” Victoria Micó Egea, the first Spanish woman to row the Atlantic, added: “The coronavirus pandemic has

truly emphasised the social inequalities faced by many, and we're prouder than ever to be supporting charities that have proven invaluable to countless people during lockdown.” At the time of going to press the crew had spent their first few days at sea. Ian Couch, Atlantic Campaigns Head Safety Officer, said: “The crews have now had a few nights at sea and all are performing well. The conditions at the start this year have been kind and as

a result all crews have got away well and though there is widespread nausea with all rowers experiencing mild symptoms only a few are fully seasick. As we explain during the training this usually lasts no more than 5 days.” You can follow the team’s progress on Instagram: @ atlanticgenerationgap Facebook: Generation Gap, and Twitter: @ GenerationGap_4 For more information, visit: atlanticgenerationgap.com

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Census 2021 to take place in spring

Households across Swindon will soon be asked to take part in Census 2021. The census gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out in every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941. This will be the first one run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets. “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” said Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics. “This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part.” Census day will be 21 March but households will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March. The census includes questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity. Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations. In the February issue of Swindon Link we will run a feature on why the census is so important with some local examples and then in March there will be a 'Frequently Asked Questions' article to help explain how to complete the census. Visit census.gov.uk. 8 swindonlink.com n January 2021

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Colin Jackson training in Swindon for Dancing on Ice By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

Ex-Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson CBE was spotted in popular Old Town health cafe The Core before his training for TV Show Dancing on Ice. Colin has been partnered with professional coach Klabera Komini, and the pair have been training at the Swindon Link Centre ice rink. Klabera was involved in the Netherlands version of Dancing on Ice and was the winner on that show. The pair have been given access to Swindon’s Link Centre for training even during lockdown and have been visiting the Old Town cafe for brunch and healthy juices. The pair spoke to Kris Talikowski, owner of The Core, about their training and about being in Swindon. Kris said: “I hope that these two go really far in the competition. Not only is Colin one of our greatest British athletes and a super friendly guy but his partner Klabera is a phenomenal skater who has won the show before in another country. They seem to have loved training in Swindon, and I think as a town we should get behind them on the show."

Dancing on Ice returns to ITV in January, with Philip Schofield and Holly Willoughby resuming presenting duties. Joining Colin in the cast this year are actors Denise van Outen, Faye Brookes and Jason Donovan, plus singer and presenter Myleene Klaas. They’re also joined by reality star Billie Shepherd, actors JoeWarren Plant and Rufus Hound, television personality Rebekah Vardy, rapper Lady Leshurr and radio presenter Sonny Jay. Last year's series was won

by actor Joe Swash, with Diversity's Perri Kiely and Paralympian Libby Clegg also reaching the final. Follow the pair on instagram: www.instagram.com/ colinrayjackson

The council has preparations in place ahead of freezing weather A team of seven gritter drivers are on 24-hour standby and ready to treat the roads should Swindon be hit with freezing temperatures this winter. Swindon Borough Council has over 1,850 tonnes of salt stockpiled at its Waterside depot in Cheney Manor in preparation, which is enough to treat the borough’s 200-mile priority routes more than 70 times. Additional salt is also on provisional order. Nearly 500 grit bins have also been refilled to ensure residents living on streets that gritting lorries are unable to treat can access salt. The council reviews the routes that it treats every year. As well as continuing to treat

major A and B roads, access roads to most villages, hospitals and bus routes, this year access roads to all covid-19 testing centres will be prioritised to ensure residents can easily access testing. The M4 and A419 are treated by Highways England. 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 such as periods of high winds or storms. Councillor Maureen Penny, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Maintenance and Waste Services, said: “Our gritting team are as prepared as they

can be for any cold weather that might come our way in the weeks and months ahead. “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 to keep our vulnerable residents safe in any adverse weather. “It’s up to all of us to get tested if we experience coronavirus symptoms, that’s why our teams will be keeping access roads to all covid-19 testing centres clear this winter."

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Keep Swindon Tidy poster effort backed by parish councils The parish councils of South Swindon, Central Swindon North, Chiseldon, Haydon Wick, Highworth, Wanborough, Wroughton have agreed to support a poster campaign organised by Keep Swindon Tidy and Plastic Free Swindon. They pledged to display designs submitted by local people, including children, to encourage everybody to think more about the importance of keeping local areas clean and safe. Everybody is welcome to submit designs of their own, and further information can be found at www. plasticfreeswindon.org/ home/ Keep Swindon Tidy and Plastic Free Swindon have also announced a special Keep Swindon Tidy Day for 2 January.

Journal to help young people cope with grief

A new journal to help teenagers cope with grief has been published by a North Swindon psychotherapist, who discovered a gap in the resources available for young people. Kathleen B Whelan - a psychotherapist, who specialises in a therapeutic approach to working with clients, addressing bereavement, trauma, and suicidal themes - created the Grief Episode Guide For Teens. It is a diarised guide to working through the stages of grief. It costs £14.99 and is available via Waterstones, Amazon and WHSmith, and has already been endorsed by endorsed by organisations, including the National Counselling Society. To find out more information, or to speak to Kathleen, email InukshukTherapy@outlook. com. 10

Council cash set aside for play area at Lydiard Park Swindon Borough Council's Cabinet agreed to a £28,000 cash injection for the play area at Lydiard Park. The money is part of the country park improvement strategy led by Coun Dale Heenan, whose council remit includes the borough's parks. The cash injection, coupled with the ring fencing of all income from people parking at Lydiard and Coate Water, will be voted on by the Cabinet on 2 December. Coun Matthew Courtliff, who represents Lydiard and Freshbrook, said: "I walk around Lydiard with my family most weekends, and I know how important our parks are. "This parks strategy is just what our town needs so that our green spaces can continue to go from strength to strength." Coun Dale Heenan, who represents Covingham and Dorcan, said: "Swindon's first parks strategy sets out our ambition for the next four years with the focus on Coate Water and Lydiard. "We are not waiting around, but making visible improvements to our parks now. "Last month, the access road to Stanton Park was

Coun Matthew Courtliff and his family are regular visitors to the park

resurfaced, this week the potholes in the gravel overflow carpark at Moulden Hill will be filled." Residents will have an opportunity after Christmas to provide ideas and feedback on each of the country parks. Coun Courtliff said on social media the day before the Cabinet discussed the money: "I know how important the play area is to parents who use Lydiard, as my children love using it too. I asked Cabinet member Dale Heenan to include a provision in the budget for the renewal of the play area and I’m happy to confirm there will be £28,000 ringfenced to do this. "Every penny we spend at

Lydiard goes straight back into the facilities, so every time you get a coffee, go in the museum and gardens, or even just pay for parking, that money is reinvested." The historic park, setting for Lydiard House, is often described as the jewel in the crown of Swindon's public amenities. The landscaped park, which covers 260 acres, has many features dating back to its centuries of ownership by the St John family, who assembled a collection of precious objects and works of art. Favourite features of the park include a rare example of a walled garden, which was built in the 18th century.

February half term support for needy families Thousands of families will be offered supermarket vouchers ahead of the February halfterm holidays as part of a Swindon Borough Council scheme. The council was awarded £624,935 by the Government to support families with the cost of food and fuel during both the Christmas and February school holidays. Around 7,000 children in Swindon will be eligible for the COVID Winter Grant Scheme. The majority of these will be children who are entitled to free school meals during term time. Children in receipt of twoyear-old funding and those eligible for the pupil premium

aged three and four will also benefit from the support. Vulnerable children under the age of two may be entitled to the funding, which can be

applied for via a social worker, health visitor or the Early Help family service. The council will work over the coming weeks to deliver the support.

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January waste and recycling services Households in Swindon are being reminded of some additional waste and recycling services on offer in January. The council will be collecting real (not artificial) Christmas trees between Monday, 4 January and Friday, 29 January. Residents should ensure that all lights and decorations are removed and that the tree can be lifted safely by two people. Christmas trees must be visible from the road and larger Christmas trees must be cut down into manageable pieces. Residents can find out when the crews will be in their street by visiting the council’s website. The council’s recycling crews will be collecting additional recycling until the end of January, providing it is sorted correctly and presented in sturdy containers. The containers do not have to be council branded. To help the crews, additional

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recycling should be sorted by grouping paper and card recycling together and grouping glass and metal recycling together. Excess cardboard must be broken down into manageable pieces and bundled neatly next to recycling boxes ready for collection.

Additional recycling may be collected by a second vehicle at a different time so please don’t be alarmed if it’s not all collected at once. The crews will not be collecting additional non-recyclable waste. For more information visit www.swindon.gov.uk/ christmaswaste

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Advertorial

A few words from White Horse Care Trust Chief Clinical Operations Executive Erica Pryce

The White Horse Care Trust are a registered charity who have provided support services since 1990 when the long stay hospitals were closed. We were very sad to have our 30year celebration plans curtailed by Covid this year. We have two nursing, ten residential, three supported living services and support individuals through outreach, we support individuals with learning and other disabilities. 2020 has been a year like no other and has tested us all, it has humbled me to be Chief COE at such a time, however the team of 300 staff have worked tirelessly throughout to ensure everyone was safe and well. We have seen staff work exceptionally hard to ensure individuals have had contact with loved ones, battle with PPE, find ways to ensure emotional wellbeing, work many shifts to prevent cross service working and much more.

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We aren’t out of the woods yet, but we have had less than 10 positive Covid cases in our staff teams in the last 9 months and I am so proud to say the teams have worked diligently to keep all the people we support free from Covid. 2021 will see more challenges but we have been lucky to welcome new people, bringing experience and different perspectives. We hope 2021 will bring more staff to join the WHCT family and welcome applications from individuals looking to bring energy, passion and kindness with them!

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Advertorial

Give 2020 the boot with The Diet Lady Are you fed up with 2020 and want to give it the boot? Have you gained more weight than you want to, feel constantly tired, unhealthy and out of control? Then it’s time for you to relight your fire and make 2021 your year, and your best one yet! Together we will focus 100% on YOU, to help you shift those pounds, release your happiness, improve your wellbeing and achieve your targets and dreams - using nutritious, tasty products and my personal 1:1 tailored support. So if you are ready to get 2021 off to a flying start, want to fit in your clothes and get healthier, I’m here to help YOU with all of that. This is your time to shine!

I have some great, early bird offers for December, ready for the New Year, let’s get YOU ready now, so you can hit the ground running in 2021. Buckle up for the ride, there will be ups and downs, but a lot of fun and laughs too, and it will all be, absolutely worth it! Contact Lisa, the diet lady - your local 1:1 diet by Cambridge weight plan consultant on 07776 042690 or thedietlady@outlook.com www.one2onediet/LCurtis

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Swindon’s Festival of Tomorrow is back for 2021

By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

The town’s renowned science and technology festival is set to return next year with an incredible array of activities. The team behind the runaway success of the Festival of Tomorrow, Swindon’s first festival of science and technology, have announced the event will be even bigger and better in 2021. The event, held by Steam in partnership with New Elements, has responded to the challenge of the pandemic restrictions by creating a mix of physical, online and blended activities to reach even more people. Although the festival won’t be able to welcome large crowds into Steam this time, it will use the opportunity to bring the excitement of the event to people across Swindon, whether that’s through a virtual event online, smaller scale activities at Steam, around the town centre and in schools.

While the programme is still being kept under wraps, Swindonians can expect the very latest in science and tech, with engineers and researchers from leading companies, universities and institutions, covering everything from the future of food and medicine to the latest on Artificial Intelligence and the fight to tackle climate change. The organisers are now reaching out to businesses, charities and organisations in Swindon and beyond to get involved. One of the first to sign up is Swindon-based UK Research & Innovation (UKRI), which brings together the seven Research Councils, Innovate UK and Research England. “We are living in a rapidly changing world. The Festival of Tomorrow gives us the chance to share with our local communities, as well as audiences further afield, the knowledge and innovation which will shape the UK’s

choices,” explained Alexis Mannion, Public Engagement Lead at UKRI. “UKRI supports UK researchers to push the frontiers of human knowledge so that we can all have the opportunity to shape the future for the better.” The inaugural festival, held in February 2020, was so successful that exhibitor slots were oversubscribed, and advance tickets sold out. Intel, Oxford University and the Science Museum Group were among the big names that thrilled families with hands-on demonstrations and real-life science and technology. Councillor Dale Heenan, the council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, Culture and Heritage, said: “Swindon's first Festival of Tomorrow was one of the stand-out successes in our approach of trying

different ideas and events to engage families with science, technology and innovation. “Covid has really affected the organisation of large events but the vaccine is the perfect example of science overcoming challenges. “The Festival of Tomorrow is designed to inspire Swindon's next generation of engineers, scientists, and biologists, and help young people develop their knowledge and skills, while having fun. The event will also help to highlight the growing number of career opportunities and pathways for young people which are available to them.” Interested firms should contact info@scienceswindon.com

Purrfect cat friendliness rating for Swindon vet practice Eastcott Veterinary Referrals has been awarded prestigious international cat-friendly status. The clinic, in Edison Business Park, has been recognised as a gold level cat clinic by the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM). Being recognised for delivering the highest standard of care and facilities for felines is a big honour for Eastcott. Duncan Barnes, clinical director at Eastcott Veterinary Referrals, which has just completed a major £3 million redevelopment project, said: “Huge congratulations to Hannah Nicholls and the rest of the feline-friendly team for their hard work and dedication which has gone into achieving this gold award. “This is a ringing endorsement of our work here, as to attain gold status you must offer an exceptional care package for cats. “Cats are sensitive animals 14

and offering them a stress-free environment is really important. “First and foremost, all staff must be trained in felinefriendly care to ensure all cats receive the best possible experience from the moment they come through the door to the time they go home. “To ensure this, we have a separate waiting area, separate hospital wards and separate kennels for cats, which are positioned well away from dogs and other animals to create a stress-free environment.” Hannah Nicholls, RVN referral surgical nurse team leader and leader of the cat-friendly team at Eastcott, revealed this high standard of feline care also benefited the team at the practice. She said: “If a cat is relaxed and at ease then it is easier to examine and treat without the risk of being scratched or bitten. So, a happy cat also

Cats have their own space and are guaranteed a friendly and calming welcome

means a happy vet and a happy nurse.” Eastcott Referrals is part of Linnaeus, which prides itself on being a vibrant community of 44 primary care and 12 referral veterinary practices based in the UK. Part of the Mars family of businesses, the group comprises over 3,000 employees and some of the country’s finest

specialists, veterinary clinicians and nursing teams in the profession. Together, Linnaeus says, the personnel are committed to excellence and delivering top quality care to their patients. More information about Eastcott Veterinary Referrals can be found at www. eastcottreferrals.co.uk

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Swindon care home embraces ‘Elf Day’ in the build-up to Christmas Staff and residents at Kingsmead care home in Swindon have enjoyed celebrating Elf Day, to help raise awareness for the Alzheimer’s Society and to help raise festive cheer in the home, as part of its build-up to Christmas Day. On Friday 4 December, activities coordinator Ali donned a wonderful elf fancy dress costume, whilst supporting residents with festive activities. Residents took part in making the Christmas cake, as well as making decorations for their rooms. Home Manager Nicky Bickerstaffe said: “Elf-hats off to our activities coordinator Ali who was more than happy to embrace Elf Day this year! She dressed up in a fun costume, which created a lot of smiles from our residents. Obviously this year will be a little different for us all over

Christmas and so we are continually looking for ways to make the season as special as possible, whilst keeping our residents safe. “Well done to Ali and my team in putting in so much effort to help make the buildup to this year’s festivities as special as possible, for all of our residents.” Kingsmead is part of the Healthcare Homes Group and is based in Old Town, Swindon. Visit www.healthcarehomes. co.uk or call 01793 422333.

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Join Together January for Prospect Hospice

The Kumon Swindon West Study Centre receives Ofsted approval Kumon's West Swindon Study Centre has received Ofsted approval meaning they can now accept tax free childcare vouchers. Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes which are tailored to your child’s age and ability. Established for more than 60 years, the Kumon programmes give students the confidence and courage to confront new challenges and pursue their own goals. As the Swindon West Study Centre is an Ofsted registered facility, you can now make considerable savings

through various schemes. A spokesperson said: "We accept tax free childcare vouchers, where you can save up to 20% off the monthly subject fee of £65.00 with a revised subject fee of £52.00 "Childcare vouchers, where you save up to 30% with a revised monthly subject fee at £45.50 and working tax credit equates to a saving of 70% where the subject fee is £19.50." You can contact the local study centre by calling 07857 447982 for more information about the Kumon programmes and the childcare vouchers.

Many of us haven’t been able to see our friends and family this year so Prospect Hospice has come up with a number of fundraising ways for us all to meet virtually. Join Together January provides four fun ideas to give people the chance to come together each week throughout the month so they can keep in touch while supporting end of life care across the area. Kicking off on 4 January, local people will be encouraged to host their own virtual quiz and the charity has everything you need to run your own event over Zoom with family and friends – no Google allowed! The charity also has everything you need to host a night of bingo, and murder mystery and, to end, a cook along with Rob Tynan, the hospice’s catering services manager in charge of creating all the delicious meals patients and their families enjoy. Abby Benson, community and

events fundraiser, said: “We know it’s been really difficult for people to see each other and share special moments so we’ve come up with four ways that people can do that.” Registration for the quiz, bingo and murder mystery is free and you can download everything you need to create a fun evening in from the website page. All the hospice asks is that you set up an online fundraising page people can donate to when taking part. Registration for the cook along is £20 for the lead booker which will give you everything you need to host your event including the video demonstration to share on the night. You’ll also receive the list of ingredients and equipment you’ll need on the night so you’re fully prepared before the cook begins. To find out more about all the events and download your host packs, visit www.prospecthospice.net/jointogetherjanuary

Support bubble sleep out to help homeless people

Homeless charity Threshold’s annual BIG Swindon Sleep Out took place across the evening from Friday 11 December and concluded after sunrise. This year the event took place in a covid-conscious way, with nearly 50 satellite groups holding sleep out events within their permissible ‘bubbles’. The annual event is typically one of Wiltshire’s largest sleep outs to help the homeless, and raises funds which have for many years primarily supported the delivery of Swindon’s rough sleeper outreach service. This year saw a reduction in participants and funds raised, with pledges reaching 25 percent of the hoped-for target. Threshold’s Chief Development Officer, Michael Keenan, said: “2020 has been an incredibly difficult year, in so many ways, for everyone. "Financially, a vast majority of our supporters have been profoundly affected by a loss 16 swindonlink.com n January 2021 NW January Master pages.indd 16

or reduction in their household income, and of course this means that their ability to be as generous as they wish to be is curtailed by circumstance. "Even so, the amount of money that was pledged on the night represents a fantastic effort by all involved and we are so very grateful." He added: "As ever, this years’ event attracted participants across the generations, with young children, school groups, community and business groups and individuals and families all gathering in bubbles to support the homeless. "It was regrettable that we could not all be together in one place but the solidarity was nonetheless most evident on the night”. Mr Keenan noted that 2020 had been a year in which a remarkable increase in offers of support in non-financial ways were being made. He said: "The challenge for us at Threshold is to find ways to

Particpants bedded down everywhere from fields to in living rooms with heating turned off

channel that support so that it can be deployed to support the vulnerable homeless. "We work in a sector where security clearances are required to work with our service users and also a high degree of skill for the most part due to the complex needs that many service users have. "This means that it is not easily possible to make a good fit

between volunteers' desire to help and the opportunities to do so, but we hope to have time to focus on expanding training opportunities for potential volunteers in the new year.” Anybody wishing to discover more about the work of Threshold and volunteering opportunities is invited to follow Facebook @THLSwindon or visit www.thl.org.uk

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Being there for Swindon The Covid-19 pandemic hasn’t stopped Prospect Hospice from delivering its amazing end-of-life care to patients and their families and loved ones. It’s just meant that the hospice has been taking far more of its expert services out into the community, and into people’s own homes. And, says Prospect Hospice’s chief executive Irene Watkins, the feedback they’re getting from patients and families is that this new way of working is working very well indeed. “We’ve always known that Prospect Hospice is so much more than bricks and mortar,” says Irene, “but this year has given us the opportunity to showcase that to the wonderful community that supports us. Covid-19 meant it was suddenly impossible to offer services like day therapy or family support at our Wroughton base.

"But by thinking out of the box, our colleagues soon devised new ways of supporting patients and families, whether in person in their homes or online. The phrase that I’ve begun to use is Prospect without walls. Because we are there, out in the community, where we now need to be. "I’m so proud of how everyone has flexed to make sure that our community has been able to benefit from the expertise in specialist, end of life care which Prospect Hospice is well known for.”

Giving Angie the best care possible

In the weeks before Christmas 2020, Malcolm Garrett was putting up his garden lights and hanging a wreath on the door, preparing for a family Christmas. But this was to be a very different Christmas to previous ones. Sadly, in February 2020, his darling wife Angie had died of breast cancer, leaving him, their children James, Emma, Sara and Samantha and nine grandchildren to grieve the woman they all loved so dearly. Very soon afterwards came lockdown, and Malcolm was told that for health reasons he needed to self-isolate for the next few months. Malcolm says he has Prospect Hospice to thank for getting him through that period. “Prospect Hospice had become involved in caring for Angie in 2019, and even then we all immediately felt they were treating Angie the person, rather than the illness,” says Malcolm. “Throughout that year, specialist nurses and emotional support staff visited us at home, and were a tremendous help to the whole family. “The specialist nurses were available on the phone at any time

and when Angie seemed to take a turn for the worse or was in extreme pain they provided the necessary support and eased our worries. They were incredible. “When Angie was nearing the end of her life she was offered a bed in at the hospice’s inpatient unit for her final days, and on one unforgettable day the Prospect Hospice team arranged for the whole family to have the use of the beautiful garden room for an afternoon. “The memories we all made that day will stay with us all forever. It’s something that could only happen with Prospect Hospice. We all, including our nine grandchildren, ordered pizza and watched a film together, and each child was given a unique patchwork blanket to snuggle under. To our delight they were allowed to keep them, as a memento of this special time. “After Angie died and I was isolated from the family, it was a very difficult time for us all emotionally. I found it souldestroying, and felt I had nowhere to turn. And then again Prospect Hospice came to my rescue. Louise from the hospice’s bereavement team provided amazing support in helping me cope with my grief while self-isolating, and the team helped my daughters, who were also struggling, too. They’ve told me we can have that support for as long as we need it.” Malcolm says this support has helped him do what Angie would want, which is focus on the family around Christmas. “Angie always hosted “The Garrett Family Christmas” at our house a few weeks before Christmas so our blended family could all be together one day. This year we will be doing it online, but we are still doing it. I’ve got Prospect Hospice’s awesome staff to thank for giving Angie the best final days we could have asked for, and also for getting me through the hardest year of my life. “We are so lucky to have our incredible Prospect Hospice. I can never thank them enough.”

Prospect Hospice belongs to the whole community. Around 70 per cent of its income comes from the generous donations and fund-raising efforts of people who live or work in Swindon and

its surrounding area. It’s that generosity that enables Prospect Hospice to provide all the expert clinical, emotional and practical support that patients and their families so appreciate. swindonlink.com n

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The Business Brief Progressive Wiltshire Law Firm are gearing up to launch new Swindon office By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

Awdry Bailey & Douglas, one of Wiltshire’s leading law firms, are gearing up to open their new Swindon office in early 2021 as part of the firm’s continued expansion plans. The newly built office, 2 Gateway North, is conveniently located on North Latham Road adjoining the B4534 Lady Lane and the A419 dual carriageway to the North of Swindon. The new office provides dedicated car parking spaces, is easily accessible via Junction 15 of the M4 and is opposite the David Lloyd sports and leisure club. Although Awdry Bailey and Douglas can trace its history back to approximately 1750, by way of an unbroken series of partners, the firm prides itself on taking a modern and progressive approach to legal services. The launch of 2 Gateway North illustrates the firms’ progressive nature and expands their range of offices in the key Wiltshire towns of Chippenham, Devizes,

Marlborough, Royal Wootton Bassett and soon to be Swindon. The new office will provide a full range of legal services, including Conveyancing, Commercial, Employment, Family Law and Private Client services to the local community throughout Swindon and the surrounding areas. Tim Hotchkiss, Partner and member of ABD’s Management Board, who have overseen the completion of the lease, commented: “Geographic expansion is one of the firm’s key strategic objectives. Whilst we already offer our services remotely, through video calls, over the telephone and via email, we understand that being able to access your lawyer in person, in an easily accessible, covid-19 secure environment, is still highly valued by our clients. Being part of the local community is important to us at ABD. Our new Swindon office will enable us to offer easy access to our highly qualified lawyers, who are here to provide not only the trusted, personalised and high quality legal services we are

renowned for, but also to help and support local people, local businesses and the wider community as a whole.” The firm’s new Swindon office is due to open in early 2021 and their full address is 2 Gateway North, North Latham

Road, Swindon SN25 4DL. As well as opening a new office the firm has recently announced a number of new appointments and continues to recruit. Email: info@awdrys.co.uk Website: awdrys.co.uk

Awdry Bailey & Douglas appoints highly experienced HR Manager By Jamie Hill jamie@positive-media.co.uk

Awdry Bailey & Douglas Solicitors is delighted to announce the recruitment of highly experienced HR Manager, Lee Leonard. Lee recently joined the firm and has been delivering HR operational excellence for over 20 years. Her expertise covers all areas of Human Resources including recruitment, payroll, employee relations, change projects and performance management. Lee takes a positive, proactive approach and believes in collaborative working to help support the

emotional and career needs of all employees, helping them to flourish in all aspects of their working lives. Alistair Everett, Managing Partner of Awdry Bailey & Douglas commented: “Our aim is to provide excellence to our clients in everything we do, and our people are at the heart of that. "We believe in and value our people and want everyone to enjoy working here. We do this by creating a positive, supportive and forwardlooking environment, where everyone is valued. "That’s why we are so pleased to welcome Lee to the

firm. "She is such a highly experienced and knowledgeable HR professional and her approach matches our core values exactly." Lee said “It’s an exciting time to join ABD, not only does the firm continue to grow, but we are dedicated to recruiting the best talent and our Investors in People accreditation demonstrates that we truly are a business that recognises and values its people. "I look forward to playing a key role in the ongoing development of the firm’s HR strategies, whilst ensuring that

all employees are supported, informed and engaged and feel part of such a positive, can-do culture, where success is always acknowledged." E: info@awdrys.co.uk W: awdrys.co.uk swindonlink.com n

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The Politics Page

Swindon at its very best during pandemic I have been truly humbled by how people in our town have rallied round and extremely proud of all the council staff who have gone the extra mile to keep our residents safe. At the time of writing this column, the biggest vaccination programme in our country’s history has just got underway here in Swindon. But as we begin to look forward to 2021 with a glimmer of optimism where we can see light at the end of this long covid tunnel, we must not for one moment think that it is job done. It is going to take several months for the vaccine to be rolled out and, as we enter January, there are many cold and dark winter days to come where our NHS would normally be under the severest of pressures at the best of times

without having to deal with coronavirus on top. You will see elsewhere in the magazine that we have launched a campaign in partnership with Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust reminding people to follow the latest public health guidance to prevent our NHS from becoming overwhelmed. It really is up to all of us to continue to play our part to keep our covid-19 case rates down while the vaccination programme is rolled out to the rest of the population. By following the guidance you won’t just protect yourself, but your loved ones and the Great Western Hospital. If you experience any coronavirus symptoms, no matter how mild, you must stay at home. The symptoms to look

out for are a high temperature, a new continuous cough or a loss of, or change to, people’s sense of smell or taste. Residents must also remember the key safety messages: hands, face, space. Also, if you develop symptoms you must book a test immediately, either at a local testing centre or by ordering a home testing kit, by calling 119 or visiting the NHS website. We may well want to forget the pain of the last nine months, but please keep the public health guidance uppermost in your minds. It will save lives.

Council writes to more than a thousand local businesses to remind them of key covid-19 advice Businesses across Swindon received a letter from the council’s Director of Public Health reminding them of the key role they must continue to play to keep covid-19 at bay. More than 1,200 businesses, including supermarkets, distribution centres and hairdressers, received the letter which outlines the important measures they need to continue to follow now the national lockdown restrictions have been lifted. The letter from Swindon’s Director of Public Health, Steve Maddern, contains details of what to do if an employee in a workplace has symptoms of or tests positive for covid-19 to ensure the correct processes are being followed. Reminders to discourage employees from car sharing are also included as well as links to further sources of information and advice. The council continues to support local businesses 20

through the pandemic, offering support and guidance with covid-19 cases and outbreaks. Financial support is also being administered in the form of government grants for eligible firms, with over £30.5m being processed since March 2020. Self-isolation payments are also available for residents who are from low-income households who are required to self-isolate but are unable to work from home. Steve Maddern, Swindon Borough Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “Making sure workplaces are covidsecure is a key part of managing the transmission of coronavirus in our community. We need to all make sure we’re continuing to follow the guidelines whether we’re at work, at the shops or simply at home. “It’s up to all of us to look after one another and follow the guidance to minimise the spread of covid-19. If any

businesses or residents are unsure of what they need to be doing, please head to our website to find out more: www. swindon.gov.uk/coronavirus.” Councillor Brian Ford, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “It’s so important that we don’t become complacent, especially in the run-up to the festive period.

“We must ensure we all continue to follow the guidance, particularly the basics of hand washing, covering your face and making space. Helping businesses to continue implementing the correct measures and keep workforces safe is just one of the ways we are working alongside our partners to control the spread of covid-19 in our town.”

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Words by Jamie Hill

Swindon Borough Council Leader David Renard's monthly column It would be fair to say that 2020 will be a year many of us will want to forget. When the global coronavirus pandemic began to take hold of the world back in March, few would have predicted the havoc it would cause and the devastating loss of life it would bring. But in between the tragedy are tales of human kindness and a community spirit which has helped people through the biggest health crisis of modern times. The last 12 months have shown Swindon at its best, from volunteers who have delivered medication and food parcels to the vulnerable to our heroic local NHS staff who have battled to save lives.

Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard

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Words by Jamie Hill

FEATURES Snapping through

Photojournalist Richard Wintle, who used to work for Swindon Link before retiring from full time work 18 months ago, has released his second book telling the story of the town through the eyes of the lens. The photographer has been recording the town's recent history for more than 40 years and has been a mainstay in the local media throughout some of its massive milestones including the closure of the Railway Works. His latest book is called 'Another picture, another story' and is the followup to 'A picture is only the start of the story' released earlier this year. A third book is currently in the works which will look at Richard's work in the sporting arena. He said: "Whilst my last book used the town's major industries as its touchstones, from the closure of the Railway Works to the proposed closure of the Honda plant, this book uses Lydiard Park as its cornerstone. Although it features events and pictures from all over the town throughout the book it always leads back to Lydiard." The book features pictures of major national figures from politicians and royalty like Princess Diana and Prince Harry to celebrities like Britt Eckland and Brian Blessed. He said: "Although you do get starstruck sometimes, I find that as soon as you have the camera in your hand you go into professional mode to simply get the job done." The book is being sold for ÂŁ14.95 with a percentage going towards charity Neuroendocrine Cancer UK. The book is available from Swindon Central Libray Bookshop and STEAM and can be ordered by emailing richard@calyxpix. com or visiting calyxpix.com

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windon-based contemporary dance company Neon Dance has received funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

Dances with robots

The money will be used to create what is billed an an original and ambitious contemporary dance work. Called Prehension Blooms, it is described as a one of a kind interactive performance experience with attendees free to roam, encountering five dancers and a beguiling, playful robot community. By moving, sitting, lying down and congregating, the audience will influence all aspects of the performance. Neon Dance artistic director Adrienne Hart said: “Many of us have been isolated in 2020. With Prehension Blooms we’re aiming to bring people back together. "We’re designing tele-operated robots as part of the production so that remote audiences can join in, interacting with physical audience members, robots and performers." There will be the opportunity to join Neon Dance and help co-create the swarming

A scene from a previous Neon Dance performance

robots for the production during a series of workshops which will take place across the UK. Confirmed workshop locations include Swindon, Brighton, Oxford, Bristol and St Ives. Details will be made available at neondance.org Phil Gibby, Area Director, South West, for Arts Council England, said: “We are delighted to award Neon Dance £86,000 for Prehension Blooms Creation, Community Engagement and Company Development through our National Lottery Project Grants funding programme.

"This significant investment will allow Neon Dance to reach new audiences, specifically older people and young people, to help combat loneliness. "Prehension Blooms is an original and ambitious project that will give audiences a unique experience, combining dance with robotics." "Arts Council believe in creating new opportunities for every person in England to get creative and enjoy brilliant culture, which is why we’re so pleased to support this project from Neon Dance."

Poetry: Tales of having a flutter Poetry column with Maurice Spillane that they won’t get to of Poetry Swindon Cheltenham in March because

I’d a few pints with two friends, John and Ian, recently. They are both in their 80s though you wouldn’t think it. They were mischievous in their lives with hilarious stories to endorse their adventures. In the pub, in direct proportion to the number of pints, they reverted to their youth: playful teenagers giggling out of chiselled faces. They enjoy a flutter on the horses and were bemoaning 22

of coronavirus, their age and mixing with people being a concern. So, I said: “Why not bring Cheltenham to our local pub? All we need is a plan.” To cut a long story short, they became animated. By the end of our drinking session we’d guaranteed the landlord a minimum number of seats for St. Patrick’s Day, decided on a fish buffet, planned the seating layout, where the TVs should be located, organised taxis to get everyone home, made a list

that lengthened beyond the capacity of the pub. We even planned how we’d decorate the place in shamrocks and green bunting for the saint’s day and who’d be bookie. The two elders tripped out of there like juveniles and left their ages behind them. I enjoy the odd flutter myself. David Cooke’s poem about his Irish father hits the spot: He had taken us all to Ascot races, and once took me to the dogs, where the speakers bounced their fractured echoes,

the track suffused in lights and where, with my own small bet, so much depended on the hare's mechanical, panicked blur. Unschooled, he'd never read Pascal, but knew what he needed to know about risk, and went to Mass on Sundays. The odds on Heaven were evens. With luck, poetry will back in Swindon in 2021. Happy New Year! www.mauricespillane.com

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How about some old skool classics?

Words by Barrie Hudson

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lassic Ibiza, in association with San Miguel, is returning to Bowood House in Wiltshire for two nights next summer

As ever, audiences are promised a heady blend of Balearic-infused house music, performed by the 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra (USO), headline DJs and globally renowned vocalists. In 2019, Classic Ibiza performed to 70,000 people in the UK and Spain. Next summer’s show is billed as better than ever with an extra hour-long chillout DJ slot, new tracks, an enhanced light-show - and even more toilets! Lisa Ward, Director of Revival Productions and Classic Ibiza promoter, said: “Next summer’s show is going to be a blast – I think we’ll all be ready for a party by then! "In addition to the safety measures that we have planned, we’ve really upped the ante by extending the programme, adding new tracks and enhancing the already fantastic light show.” The concert organisers are working with We Are The Fair, a health and safety

specialist event company which helps large concerts acts to deliver safe shows in the current environment. We Are The Fair’s CEO, Nick Morgan, sits on the steering group of The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, as well as Public Health England. If social distancing is required next summer, the concert site will be divided into 'pods,' where the audience will be able to enjoy the concert. Full details can be found here. As most people chose to roll over their tickets from last summer and audience numbers have been capped to allow for social distancing, tickets for Saturday, 24 July have already sold out - but tickets are available today for Friday, 23 July on the Classic Ibiza website at £45 each, with discounts available for children and block-bookings.

"But the biggest thrill is the vibe and love that we get from our amazing audience. It’s very powerful and so much fun – I’ve really missed it!” USO’s latest album, Classic Ibiza II – Sundowners & Anthems, is available now on all major digital platforms. Further information can be found at www.classicibiza.co.uk, on Facebook @ ClassicIbiza and on 01283 84160. Classic Ibiza is not the only high-profile act planning a Wiltshire date next year. Wet Wet Wet recently announced a tour for their new album, The Journey, which will bring them to Cheltenham Town Hall on 11 November. Details are available through the band's social media channels.

USO’s Stephen Hussey, Classic Ibiza’s conductor, arranger and musical producer, said: “I love Classic Ibiza – it’s the highlight of my year.

Slightly further afield, Madness have announced a Westonbirt Arboretum gig on 12 June as part of the venue's annual Forest Live programme of events.

"There’s a unique pleasure for me in hearing the orchestrations that once existed only in my head being brought to life on stage.

Details of all the Forest Live performances at the arboretum, which is near Tetbury, can be found at www. forestryengland.co.uk/music swindonlink.com n

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HOME The National Self Build & Renovation Open Day takes place from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 January 2021. The popular annual event enables visitors to make their dream home a reality. With three days packed full of seminars in the 'Self Build Cinemas', the chance to view the Centre's life-sized educational exhibits and an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their advice, this is an unmissable event for

Make your dream house a reality anyone thinking of self building or renovating their home! On the Friday and Saturday the event will be open from 9am to 5pm and on the Sunday from 9am to 4pm. Special coronavirus measures are in place to safeguard visitors, exhibitors and staff including reduced capacity to enable social distancing. All tickets are free but need to be booked in advance from the website at nsbrc.co.uk

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Mazda3 : A thrilling, reliable hatchback

Mazda continues to bring great cars to the market: thrilling, reliable and solid behind the wheel. The new Mazda3 is another one to join the list.

Leigh Robinson: Motoring writer

Priced between £21,500 and £32,000, it is an excellent hatchback, equally as good as the VW Golf and better than the Ford Focus; classier and more reliable than the other two. As one expert said you never get tired of driving a Mazda3 and if you don’t like a hatchback there is a saloon as an option. This Mazda3 is a fourth generation and it is smoother and sportier. There is a repackaged interior, which has new technology and other features on a new platform as well. It is offered with a choice of three engines, all of which are fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. A six-speed 24

automatic is optional on every powertrain with the exception of the SE-L and Skyactiv-X SE-L Lux versions. Petrol options are covered by the 120bhp 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G, and the top of the range new, 178bhp 2.0-litre SkyActiv-X, which has a combination of supercharge and compression ignition to

deliver more performance without losing fuel economy. Like previous Mazda3s the cars are front-wheel drive but you can have 4x4 allwheel drive as an option Surprisingly there is the choice of a diesel model but there won’t be many motorists going for this option because of the government down on

this type of fuel. It is an 1.8-litre SkyActiv-D option. Along with the the various engine and gearbox options, Mazda gives you six trim levels, but not all specs are available across all the engine options. SE-L is the basic specification, while there’s also an SE-L Lux option. The rest of the line-up comprises Sport, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech. With Mazda there are no turbocharged engine options and the Sky-X petrol is the engine to have. It develops178bhp and 224Nm of torque. This 2.0-litre supercharged four-cylinder engine also uses mild-hybrid assistance mated with a controlled compression ignition technology. That will give 0-62mph in just over eight seconds and a top speed of 134mph for the manual and half a second more for the automatic model.

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Sharon set to get Swindon healthy for 2021 A mum from Swindon is set to inspire others as she embarks on a new career as a Slimming World consultant. Sharon Bradshaw of Park South lost just over five stones in nine months following Slimming World‘s Food Optimising program. The mum of three took the decision to join a group to become a more active Nana and the final push was when she became a mum again herself. Sharon was inspired to join her local group after a close friend had an extremely successful weight loss journey, losing over 18 stone.  Sharon said: “Before Slimming World I had incredibly low selfesteem and poor fitness levels. I did feel that I ate relatively well but Food Optimising helped me learn how to make the most of the food choices I was making." Team Developer Lou Robins said: “At the heart of our eating plan is Free Food. These are foods that members can eat in unlimited amounts ensuring they never go hungry! These are real foods such as rice, pasta, potatoes as well as lean meats, poultry and meat-free alternatives. When we combine our eating plan with IMAGE Therapy, that’s where the real magic happens!" Slimming World's unique approach to support through IMAGE Therapy ensures members are supported by a fully trained consultant and fellow members. “The IMAGE actually stands for Individual

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Motivation and Group Experience. This is a members chance to shine, inspire as well as get support and ideas about food and activity, which we call Body Magic,” said Lou. Cooking from jars, ordering takeaways and having indulgent puddings used to be Sharon’s go-to for food. “I now love cooking. We enjoy meals such as spaghetti bolognese, chicken chasseur, and lentil loaf, and I know I can still enjoy a pudding every now and then. The meals I cook can be eaten by the whole family which is just brilliant." Before becoming a member, Sharon felt nervous and worried about being in a group, but on her first day was made to feel incredibly welcome and put at ease by her consultant and soon made friends in the group. She said: “I sat in disbelief when I heard about all the foods I could enjoy freely, and when I lost six pounds in my first week I was hooked. I started to get more active and now enjoy running around with my grandchildren and look forward to doing the same with my daughter. Slimming World has given me confidence, and a feeling of self-worth and you won’t find me hiding from the camera anymore. I am thrilled to be taking the next step with Slimming World, running my own business and helping people feel the way I do." Sharon relaunches the Park group on Thursday 31 December. Booking to attend all groups is essential to ensure groups remain covid secure. For more information, contact Sharon on 07515 960935 or visit www. SlimmingWorld.co.uk swindonlink.com n

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CYCLING Cycling column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign

I’m a keen advocate of cycling not being a seasonal sporting activity but an important yearround mode of transport. I love seeing the changing seasons by bike and wrapping up on those frosty winter mornings. There couldn’t be a better time than now to get out into the fresh air and enjoy nature, with so many benefits to both our physical and mental health. That’s why, along with other local volunteer ride leaders I’ll be continuing to lead free social bike rides throughout the colder months with British Cycling’s Let’s Ride programme. And this New Year there is an even greater incentive to join in the fun! British Cycling is partnering with global charity World Bicycle Relief to get 2021 off to a flying start with

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SPORT With 2020 coming to a close one thing can be agreed by all. Even by Swindon's standards 2020 was a rollercoaster of mad heights as well as lows. From winning the league and beating Oxford for the first time in 19 years to losing Richie Wellens and the coronavirus halting the league season. It's fair to say we've seen it all. Firstly before I start I must applaud everyone who was involved in the successful campaign of getting fans back into grounds. This meant that at the time of writing Swindon are able to welcome 2,000 fans into the County Ground. And with the fight against coronavirus continuing there is no reason why more fans won't soon return. Many people are looking forward to 2021 with relief and one of those people is 26

Get Cycling for World Bicycle Relief this New Year a new cycling challenge, #LetsRideThroughWinter. Taking place across January and February 2021, the chilly challenge incentivises people to join a free, locally led ride while at the same time raising awareness and funds for World Bicycle Relief. The themes to each two-week challenges are: • Spread some cheer (1 – 15 Jan) • Change a life (16 – 31 Jan) • The road (cycle path) less travelled (1 – 14 Feb) • Capture the moment (15 – 28 Feb) Anyone joining a led ride during January and February will be entered into a prize draw for exciting cycling goodies and accessories. Those registering to fundraise will receive a unique money-off code for World Bicycle Relief’s charity partner, Stolen Goat.

World Bicycle Relief is a global non-profit organisation with a mission to empower people in developing countries through the life-changing mobility of a simple bicycle. With a bicycle, students can get to and stay in school, healthcare workers can give more patients treatment and entrepreneurs can deliver their goods to market. World Bicycle Relief also helps train mechanics to support each community with their bicycles. Since its inception in 2005, World Bicycle Relief has delivered over 500,000 of their sturdy Buffalo Bikes around the world. It takes just £120 to put a Buffalo Bike into the hands of somebody who needs it and we know that every single one can truly change a life. Find British Cycling’s fundraising page at

A rollercoaster 12 months for STFC in 2020 Swindon manger John Sheridan. The recently appointed gaffer will be craving the January transfer window as he looks to strengthen and repair Town's injury ravaged squad. In my opinion Swindon have a good enough squad currently, however we've never been able to realise the potential the current crop has due to the sheer number of injuries suffered. And it must be said that for the vast majority of the season Swindon's bench has lacked strength. There will be many things on Sheridan's shopping list this January and I believe that the main target will be an experienced striker. Although Brett Pitman fits this category the 32 year old has been plagued by numerous injuries this season meaning that Town have yet to reap the rewards of the man who has

over 100 goals to his name. However it must be said that Tyler Smith and Hallam Hope have both done very good jobs when deployed down the middle this season. But despite this I still feel as if an experienced goal getter is needed. As this will ease the pressure on Smith and Hope to score the goals that enable Swindon to pull away from the drop zone. One other position that I feel is a high priority is the goalkeeper. Town have been victims of many goalkeeping and defensive errors this season. But despite this I feel as if by improving the goalkeeper your defence improves too. A good quality keeper can make key saves that can determine the outcome of a match as well as instilling confidence in the players in front of them

worldbicyclereliefuk.enthuse. com/cf/lets-ride The details of local led rides which all come with a ‘no-one gets left behind’ guarantee will appear on www.letsride. co.uk nearer the time; why not join the Guided Rides Swindon group? You can do this by checking the details of a Swindon ride and clicking the group name link. You could also ‘like’ the Let’s Ride Swindon Facebook page for ride updates. All rides are covid-secure and there is a limit of 6 people per ride, so booking is essential. Go on, pop some layers on and I hope to see you on a ride soon!

Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer

leading to the number of errors falling. We've seen a similar issue recently present itself at Chelsea with the unconfident Kepa costing Chelsea and making their defence appear shaky. However this was solved with the arrival of the Edouard Mendy who fixed Chelsea's leaky defence and as a result Chelsea began recording clean sheets As the saying goes your defenders are only as good as the keeper behind them. As I conclude this piece I wonder where Swindon will be this time next year. Will they be half way through their second consecutive year of league 1 football? Or will they be back down in league 2? Only time will tell. But hopefully luck will soon start coming Town's way.

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