There's a tradition that takes place across Swindon as we ring in the New Year - and that is the game of spotting how many new joggers you see on the streets at the start of January.
At first the town's pavements are chock-full of people trying to keep to their New Year's Resolution but the numbers then face a steep decline as the weeks go on.
It's a fun game. You should try it.
But it is definitely a good thing to look after yourself and your own wellbeing and that is why our big feature this month is a focus on health and wellbeing. You can read all about it on page 13.
Apart from fitness and health another thing that we believe should be one of your New Year Resolutions is The Ink, our subscription-based news service favouring analytical and longform news sent directly to your inbox. It costs £5.99 a month meaning you get complete access to all our briefings four days a week.
Swindonians have really taken to The Ink as it gets under the skin of the town's issues. If you haven't already, sign up below.
Plans for a reopened Oasis Leisure Centre
By Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com
Plans to refurbish the Oasis have been submitted, following a public consultation.
SevenCapital, the leaseholders of the site, opened the consultation online and an in-person event in November, receiving in total 1,893 feedback form submissions.
The proposals include a detailed application that will revive the former leisure destination by restoring the iconic dome structure and delivering a modern wave machine, state-of-the-art aqua play and teaching lane pool.
Domebusters slides will be replaced with a new intertube slide complex, representing an upgrade to the previous slides.
A SevenCapital spokesperson said: "Following feedback during the consultation on plans to introduce a new wave ball and associated curved pool, SevenCapital is no longer pursuing this format and will instead replace the existing wave machine with a similar format wave machine.
"Whilst there will still be the need to improve the overall setting of the wet side of Oasis, SevenCapital will also now look to retain the existing pool area, subject to necessary health and safety improvements.
"Plans to include a new bowling alley, indoor golf, state-of-the-art gym, and café spaces remain within the proposals, with new outdoor
all-weather pitches, known as Multi Use Games Areas, replacing the sports hall, which after significant consultation with leisure operators is not deemed sufficiently economical to replace."
If approved, the revamp of the Oasis will commence as the first phase of work.
Meanwhile, as part of a mixed-use masterplan, outline plans have also been submitted to deliver up to 707 new homes, public realm, and other amenities as part of a new neighbourhood with the Oasis at its heart. SevenCapital says this has been carefully designed to maintain visibility of the iconic dome from all angles and is key to unlocking the investment required to complete the refurbishment of the Oasis.
Outline plans for two new commercial opportunities, which could support up to 630 new jobs, have also been submitted.
Both outline submissions for the homes and commercial
elements remain at an early stage in the planning process and are currently indicative.
Damien Siviter, Group Managing Director at SevenCapital, said: “We have taken the public consultation very seriously and accommodated updates to our detailed application for the Oasis where strong feeling has been evident.
“We are confident the plans will deliver a renewed, revived and exciting destination that marries both its heritage with long-term sustainability.”
Cllr Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “The plans mark a significant milestone on the journey to getting the leisure centre back open. We now need to let the planning process run its course and, as part of that, people will have a another chance to have their say during the statutory consultation process. We expect the planning application to be determined by the Planning Committee in the spring.”
An impression of The Oasis
News from SBC
Council discusses plans for town centre with residents
Plans to create a vibrant future for Swindon’s town centre were among the topics discussed at a series of resident engagement events held by Swindon Borough Council throughout November and December.
Following up on successful Let’s Talk Swindon events held earlier this year, the sessions saw Leader of the council, Cllr Jim Robbins, and Chief Executive Officer Samantha Mowbray share updates with residents. They spoke about the council’s work to build a fairer, better and greener Swindon against the backdrop of the ongoing financial pressures facing public
services.
Attendees were able to hear about the results from the 2024 Swindon Resident Survey held in the summer, which received more than 4,400 responses.
They were also given the chance to hear about a set of new ambitions developed by private, public and voluntary sector partners for Swindon town centre.
Residents were given the opportunity to share their feedback on the council’s plans at three dedicated engagement sessions in November and multiple drop-in events held across the borough in December.
Further feedback and updates on the
council’s work to deliver the Swindon Plan will be shared with residents, colleagues and partners throughout 2025.
Permanent changes to waste and recycling collections now in place
Residents across Swindon are being asked to recycle effectively this Christmas and are reminded that from Christmas Day, permanent changes are being made to their waste and recycling collection days.
From this point, all collection days have permanently moved by two working days. This is to enable crews to focus on the huge task of collecting the larger volumes of waste
and recycling generated over the Christmas period, while also preventing them from having to catch up with 40,000 household collections that accrue from Christmas Day and Boxing Day, both being national bank holidays.
Residents can see the dates of their future waste and recycling collections on the council’s website by entering their postcode into the online search – www.swindon.gov.uk/lookup
Garden waste collections have not been affected.
At Christmas there is more to recycle than at any other time of year so the council is asking residents to recycle as much as possible by using their kerbside recycling boxes and blue weighted bag.
Pre-sorting recycling will make sure it remains a good quality and helps to speed up collections. If residents are unsure where to recycle
Young people shape design of new-look Lyndhurst Centre
Work to create a new inclusive youth centre in Park North is being shaped by young people across Swindon.
Building work on the new facility at the Lyndhurst Centre in Lyndhurst Crescent, Park North, began in October and the centre has already seen a new roof installed, upgraded electrical systems and windows chosen by local young people installed. These updates bring the project, closer to its planned opening in Spring 2025.
Once opened, the new centre will serve over 400 young people a week, providing a safe and inclusive environment tailored to their needs.
One of the young people involved in the project is WAY Youth Leader and Studio Facilitator Michael Lartey, who is advising on the centre’s new upcoming recording studio and digital creative space.
Working alongside New College students and local youth advisors, the council says that Michael has incorporated insights from young people into every detail of the studio’s design. This creative space will provide young people with a unique outlet for self-expression, complementing the centre’s other facilities, which include teaching kitchens, a gym, a hair and beauty hub, and counselling rooms.
The council says that the youth-
Council praises Swindon’s amazing volunteers
Inspirational volunteers are being celebrated by Swindon Borough Council for the invaluable support they provide local communities. For two weeks in December, the council ran its own advent to share stories from 12 organisations across the
Borough who spread a little happiness into people’s lives.
So far this year, 300 volunteers have given up their time to support residents who are working with the council’s Live Well Swindon team.
The team co-ordinate a variety of volunteering
or dispose of items, they can search up items on the council’s waste wizard, by visiting www. swindon.gov.uk/wastewizard
led approach is embedded in its design of the Lyndhurst Centre, with local young people actively involved in shaping each area, from choosing colour schemes to configuring room layouts. This work is intended to develop a vibrant community space where Swindon’s youth can connect, learn, and thrive in a place they’ve helped create.
When the new facility is open, it will operate daily from 8am to 10pm.
opportunities. These include Swindon Circles and Telephone Befrienders who provide companionship to isolated residents, knitters who produce blankets and draft excluders which are then donated to homeless people or those in need, and Pet Fosterers who
look after residents’ animals when they have to go into hospital. So far this year these volunteers have given up 21,900 hours of their time.
If you can spare anything from an hour to a number of hours a week, email volunteer@swindon.gov.uk
Michael Lartey
Swindon Borough Council facing ‘an extremely serious financial position’
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
A near £20m gap in next year's budget was at the top of the agenda when Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet met in mid-December.
Councillors were told the local authority’s latest accounts showed a forecast £7.6m inyear budget overspend with next year’s budget (2025/26) showing an estimated £18.9m budget gap.
The current in-year overspend is being driven by cost pressures in both Children’s (£5.1m) and Adults’ (£2.4m) social care services.
To reduce the current inyear position, robust spending controls, a recruitment freeze on all but critical roles and a freeze on non-essential spending remain in place. The council has also held sessions to review and scrutinise every budget within the organisation to identify further in-year savings. Looking ahead to next year, the Cabinet heard that the current £18.9m forecast budget gap was after £12.1m in proposed savings had been taken into account.
It is, however, anticipated that the current figures will be subject to change with the Government’s provisional Local Government Finance Settlement due in December, which will set out the precise impact of
measures announced in the Autumn Budget.
With insufficient reserves to close the £18.9m gap, a budget update at an earlier Cabinet meeting explained that the council had been in contact with the Government about its extremely challenging financial position. This could see the council, as a last resort, apply for Exceptional Financial Support in order to help the local authority meet its legal duty to balance the council’s budget in 2025/26.
Exceptional Financial Support gives councils temporary permission for a financial year to use capital funds raised through borrowing, or from the sale of assets such as land and buildings, to plug funding gaps in their day-to-day revenue spending. Any council which is granted this support is subject to an external assurance review.
The £12.1m in savings
identified in next year’s budget include proposals to increase community-led support (£4.3m) to reduce demand on Adults’ services and reducing the cost of children’s residential placements (£2m). There are also plans to increase the use of more local foster carers to save an estimated £377,000, and using community assets to improve the efficiency of services and outcomes for local residents (£421,000).
The 2024-25 budget proposals tabled at the Cabinet meeting assume a 2.99 per cent increase for core council tax and two per cent for the adult social care precept. Final budget proposals will be tabled at the Cabinet meeting on 12 February, before being discussed and voted on at Full Council on 27 February.
In a separate report, Cabinet members were asked to endorse the Swindon 2028 transformation programme,
which aims to deliver millions of pounds in savings over the next four years.
Cllr Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “Swindon is a microcosm of the wider local government sector and the Government is under no illusions about the scale of the issues we are facing. The cost and demand for social care services continues to rise, making up around 80 per cent of our budget.
“The Government recognises that system-wide reform of both children’s and adults’ social care is essential if these costs are to become more financially sustainable for local authorities. It has also committed to reforming local authority funding, for example, by introducing multi-year funding settlements from 2026/27 to give local authorities the certainty to plan and invest for the long term.
“While these much-needed reforms are very welcome, they won’t help us in the immediate term. That’s why we continue to do everything we can to cut spending, applying strict controls. We are also investing in a transformation programme in order to fundamentally change how we deliver services, achieve better resident outcomes and value for money between now and 2028.”
New Fleming Way path offers view of transformation
A crucial new town centre path has opened amid the final stages of the radical transformation of Fleming Way. Originally scheduled for completion this year, the project is now set to be finished by the end of next Summer.
Swindon Borough Council says problems with utility companies and their infrastructure work were major contributors to the delay.
The new path, which opened
in early December, replaces the underpass that ran from the town centre beneath the major Swindon road and linked The Parade and the current bus station.
That bus station is itself due for replacement as part of the transformation.
The work also includes:
- Building a new bus interchange to accommodate all bus services in the town centre
- Creating what the council promises will be vastly improved public open spaces including over 100 mixed hedgerow bee-friendly plants, plus hundreds more shrubs along the central reservation that will also form part of the scheme’s drainage system
- Introducing new cycle lane facilities that connect the town’s Western and Eastern Cycle Flyers
The council said that in
addition to allowing people to inspect progress, the path would provide better access to the town centre for shoppers during the crucial period in the run-up to the Festive Season, thereby helping the local economy.
To stay up to date with the Fleming Way improvement scheme, people can sign up to the dedicated newsletter at www.swindon.gov.uk/ Signupforournewsletters
Cllr Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, left, and council leader Cllr Jim Robbins
Swindon school's robotics team prepare for Lego League Competition
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
A team of students working on a robotics project at Abbey Park School in Swindon is building up for the highly anticipated First Lego League (FLL) Challenge.
It will be held in Bristol on 27 February 2025.
The FLL is a global competition to inspire teams of young people to experiment and grow their critical thinking, coding, and design skills through hands-on science and technology learning and robotics.
The Abbey Park School team, which began building their Lego robots in September, has been working on this year’s FLL project centred around the theme of Submerged: An Underwater Robotics Challenge.
The FLL Challenge presents teams with a series of complex
missions that require them to design, build, and programme robots. The students named their robot "Gilbert" and have been meticulously coding it to navigate a challenging underwater-themed course.
Gilbert will face a variety of tasks, including securing and transporting coral structures, releasing a tagged shark back into its habitat, guiding an angler fish to its home within a shipwreck, raising the mast of a sunken shipwreck and retrieving a treasure chest from the shipwreck.
The team must strategically choose which tasks Gilbert will complete within an allotted two-and-a-half-minute timeframe.
Pupil Hayden, from Year 9, said: "It is definitely a challenge but when we all work as a team, we've been able to pull through"
Matthew, from Year 9, said: "It is a cool experience and I'm
having lots of fun" Dawood, also from Year 9, said: "We're having fun whilst working hard"
Hannah Keogh, Science Teacher and Robotics Project Leader, Abbey Park School, said: “I'm very proud of all the amazing ideas that the team of students have come up with.
"Their robotic designs are
innovative, creative and all down to the hard work and dedication the team has shown. The First Lego League Challenge emphasises core values such as discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and, of course, fun. "We’re really looking forward to competing in Bristol next February.”
Swindon primary school pupils loved Paris visit
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
A total of 102 children from Orchid Vale, Bridlewood and Red Oaks primary schools in Swindon took part in an educational visit to Paris. It was the first combined overseas trip for the three schools, and helped them to develop their knowledge of modern languages and learn more about French culture.
Staff and students visited the Eiffel Tower, had a tour of central Paris, a boat ride on the River Seine, and a wonderful day at Disneyland. They also had a cooking class and learned how to make crepes. Some of the bravest pupils and teachers even tried the traditional French delicacy of snails.
The children had a chance to test their French language skills, get a wider appreciation of European culture and make new friends across the Park Academy Trust (TPAT) family of schools.
Funding for the trip was boosted by pupils and staff from Red Oaks who cycled 320 miles, the distance from Swindon to Paris, in a sponsored race against Orchid Vale ahead of the start of the Olympic Games in July.
Rachel Surch, Director of Primary at The Park Academies Trust, said: “This has been a fantastic trip, our biggest ever, and alongside the educational experiences there was so much
excitement; there was a great sense of awe and wonder when the children saw the Eiffel Tower for the first time and seeing their faces when the Disney Parade started was just priceless!
"I’d like to thank all the amazing staff for their brilliant organisation and also our parents and carers for their generous support for the fundraising which allowed this memorable trip to go ahead."
Geoff Bryan of The Park
Academies Trust said: “It was a pleasure to accompany 102 children from across the TPAT Primary Schools on their PGL residential trip to Paris.
"All of the students and staff had a fantastic time, personal highlights were helping children conquer their fear of heights climbing the Eiffel Tower, and the pure joy and excitement of watching the Disney parade.
"The hard work by Mrs Surch in coordinating and organising the trip ensured that it was a huge success, with all staff thoroughly enjoying the experience, even if it did mean a little less sleep than usual!”
Caroline Prictor, Support Staff, Orchid Vale Primary School, said: “Such a fantastic experience for the children, the opportunity to be away from their comfort zone, discovering a different country, language, food and culture. Being brave and trying new things encourages the development of life skills and independence."
New Swindon campus provides
SEND support
A new campus for young people in Swindon with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) has officially opened.
The Links Campus, run by Churchward School, teaches children and young people who require varying levels of support.
The learning provision was created, in part, thanks to the opening of 35 new places for young people with SEND by Swindon Borough Council.
Based at UTC Swindon in Bristol Street, the satellite school opened its doors in September, and has now been given its official unveiling.
Financial planner shortlisted for professional award
A Swindon based financial planner has been shortlisted for the prestigious Adviser Firm Of The Year award.
Dave Southby Financial Planning is celebrating a major achievement as the firm has been shortlisted for title of Adviser Firm of the Year –South West & Wales category at the 2025 Professional Adviser Awards.
Thermal image surveys are being offered to householders by Swindon Climate Action Network.
The simple surveys can help to highlight energy loss, and the climate action network is also offering discussions with a volunteer to establish simple possible measures to reduce that loss.
The network obtained the camera after consulting with an expert sustainability charity. Further information about the work of Swindon Climate Action Network can be found at www.swindonclimate.org/ and www.facebook.com/ SwindonClimate/
Swindon MP is new Transport Secretary
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently appointed South Swindon MP Heidi Alexander as Secretary of State for Transport.
The move followed the resignation of previous incumbent Louise Haigh over a fraud conviction a decade ago, which was highlighted in a number of national media stories.
Ms Alexander was elected to represent her Swindon constituency in July's General Election, and was shortly afterwards appointed as Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services.
She previously served as the Lewisham East MP for eight years from 2010 before becoming Deputy Mayor of London for Transport.
She held the latter role until 2021.
The South Swindon MP's new
appointment comes as the Government embarked on a programme of legislation to effectively renationalise the railway system, taking it into public ownership for the first time since the 1990s.
Ms Alexander said shortly after the announcement of her appointment: "As a girl from the proud railway town of Swindon, whose dad started
his working life as an electrical apprentice in the railways, I am honoured to have been asked to take on this role.
"This is the first Cabinet in history which is 100% state school educated. My education at Lainesmead Primary School, Lawn Manor Academy and New College Swindon made a shy young girl believe she could do anything she wanted."
Next National Self Build & Renovation Show announced
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
The next of the popular National Self Build & Renovation Shows will be held from Friday 31 January to Sunday 2 February.
The show is produced by the National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC), the UK’s award-winning Self Build and Home Improvements Visitor Centre. It promises master classes, case studies, seminars and an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their advice.
The show has a timetable packed full of informative and impartial talks, to help inspire your homebuilding plans. Alongside 200-plus exhibitors within the NSBRC’s ‘Trade Village’, the ‘Professional Services Hub’ is the place to go for independent, expert advice from a range of specialists.
You will find a number of
architects and designers, as well as experts on planning, project management, renewables, landscaping and more.
In the Build It Theatre you will hear from the experts on the ‘self build fundamentals’ which will cover key topics including; finding land, financing your self build, design, planning, building control and VAT reclaims. The Sustainability Theatre will return and cover the latest eco technologies. Show highlights include: - Guided educational tours of
the NSBRC’s fantastic life-size exhibits*
- 15-plus talks a day
- Over 200 Exhibitors
- One-to-one expert advice*
- Free Parking
Free advance tickets and full details are available at www. nsbrc.co.uk
The National Self Build & Renovation Centre is at Lydiard Fields, Great Western Way, Swindon, SN5 8UB. *Booked on the day at the Booking Desk. Visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
An invitation to beat the winter blues
At the start 2025, local multiactivity club Swindon IVC is inviting Swindon residents to kickstart their social life.
The group is one of a network of 40 clubs around the country. All are run by their members on the simple idea that they promote an event they want to arrange or go to and invite other members to join them.
Club Chair Jaki Lovell said, “Some years ago, a holiday company named the third Monday in January ‘Blue Monday’ in recognition of how moods can dip after the holiday season and in the cold, dull weather.
“So a great way of beating the winter blues is to make new friends and do things, old and new, that you enjoy together. Instead of going it alone, you can go to the cinema, join a walk, eat out, go bowling, or whatever it is, with friends.”
Swindon IVC has been a meeting point for people in the area since 1980, Jaki said: “Many join when they are new to the town or are starting a new phase in their lives.
Members tell us how much they enjoy meeting new friends, trying new things or visiting new places, and the variety of activities club members put on.”
Swindon IVC is volunteer-run so a year’s membership is just £12. For more information or to join, readers should visit www. swindonivc.org.uk
Scheme helps children brush up on dental health
More than 1,500 children in Swindon’s most deprived areas are developing vital oral hygiene skills and healthier routines, thanks to a supervised tooth-brushing scheme.
‘Big Brush Club' is commissioned by NHS England and delivered by mobile dentists At Home Dental, who carry out supervised toothbrushing sessions in Swindon’s classrooms.
Further information about the programme is available on the Big Brush Club website: bigbrushclub.co.uk
Swindon’s County Ground Set to Host Unmissable May Bank Holiday Double Header
This May Bank Holiday weekend, the County Ground in Swindon will come alive with two spectacular shows guaranteed to thrill music lovers of all ages.
Spanning two unforgettable nights, audiences can look forward to electrifying performances at Clubland Live Swindon on Friday, 23 May, followed by the ultimate tribute experience at Could Be Real – Britpop Edition on Saturday, 24 May.
Friday night promises a nostalgic celebration of 2000s dance anthems with a stellar lineup headlined by the iconic Vengaboys, known for hits like Boom Boom Boom Boom and We’re Going to Ibiza. Joining them on stage are legends of the era, including DJ Sammy, Tinchy Stryder, Whigfield, Ian Van Dahl, Ultrabeat, Flip & Fill, and more. Hosted by Kevs, this night of high-energy beats and unforgettable chart-toppers is not to be missed.
Saturday shifts gears with the
New
Could Be Real Tribute Festival, celebrating the golden age of Britpop and beyond. Fans can sing along to timeless classics from tribute acts like Queen – Pure Queen, Stereophonics –Stereotonics, Oasis – The Oasis Experience, Blur – Blurb, and many more. This evening of tribute brilliance also features homages to legends such as Elton John, David Bowie, and Amy Winehouse. Whether you’re reliving your Clubland glory days or soaking
in the magic of Britpop, this two-day event is set to make Swindon the center of live music this spring.
Tickets are available now at Skiddle.com. Secure yours before they’re gone! Tickets can be found here: www.skiddle.com/whats-on/ Swindon/The-County-GroundSwindon-In-Swindon/ClublandLive-Swindon/40063005/ and www.skiddle.com/festivals/ could-be-real-tribute-festival/
Prospect Hospice charity book and music shop opens in Old Town
Prospect Hospice marked the official opening of its new charity shop at 138 Victoria Road with a day of celebration in late November.
The shop, which stocks and welcomes donations of books, vinyl, cds, cassettes, maps, puzzles and games, has relocated from its former premises in Commercial Road.
The celebrations included author Lydia Saward reading from her book ‘Is Aunt Moll from the North Pole? and fellow author Stuart Lloyd Gould reading from his book Nuts. Both were interactive events.
Later in the day there were dj sets by performers including Matt Baila and random-rules aka Steve Hampshire.
Prospect Hospice CEO
Jeremy Lune said of the former location in Commercial Road: "There was always a real loyalty. That was a destination. It wasn't necessarily in the right place in some ways.
"As the lease expired we thought, 'Let's relocate it and make it a real hub,' because we knew that the book and vinyl enthusiasts were travelling there. So if we could make it a hub in the heart of Old Town for families, for book-lovers, for people who like art and creativity, we thought, 'Great!'"
The hospice called in Matt Cole, who refurbishes a variety of premises, and it was his creative vision that gave the new shop its look.
Prospect Hospice retail team
leader Tracy Duff said: "It's a very different look to any of our other shops - or probably any other charity shop! We've gone for a sort of urban, different feel and we want to do lots of different things in the future.
"As everybody knows, hospices are struggling, and now more than ever we need everybody's support."
More information about the charity and how people can help can be found at www. prospect-hospice.net
A focus on health and wellbeing
As we ring in the New Year it is only natural that our focus turns to our health and wellbeing so that we can kick off 2025 in the best way possible.
STEAM Museum set to host new Swindon Wellbeing Festival
Swindon’s STEAM Museum is gearing up for the town’s firstever wellness festival, taking place on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 February 2025.
The two-day event promises to help kick-start your year by promoting heath, wellness and positive lifestyle changes, as well as the opportunity to become more spiritually aware.
Included in the inaugural event’s line-up are a wide variety of dynamic workshops, including breathwork, dance flow meditation and a variety of mindful exercises. Visitors will also be invited to take part in a ground-breaking sound bath workshop, where participants will experience soothing vibrations and
calming sounds from Tibetan bowls, gongs and chimes. The workshops have a limited capacity and a number of spaces will be available to book in advance.
Speakers will present engaging talks on a range of topics such as stress relief, changing your mindset to overcome self-destructive beliefs, and how the language
Hear Clear:
we use and our posture reflects who we are.
Mini-taster sessions of reflexology, reiki and beauty treatments will be available to try and local physiotherapists, hypnotherapists, fitness coaches and chiropractors will all be on hand to give advice.
There will be stalls selling items designed to nourish the body and soul, such as natural
remedies, aromatherapy products, crystals and much more.
Day tickets for the event cost £17, which includes entry to talks and workshops (subject to availability).
Healthy refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the weekend. For more information, and to book tickets, visit: www.steam-museum.org.uk/ event/swindon-wellbeingfestival/
Understanding Cataracts: How They Affect Vision and Driving
Cataract is a common, often age-related condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or hazy vision, even when wearing up-to-date spectacles.
This can significantly impact daily activities, including reading, watching television and driving. At this time of year, with the low-angled sun or glare from oncoming headlights at night, cataracts can make it difficult to see clearly, leading to reduced confidence behind the wheel.
Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and effective solution to restore vision.
The procedure is typically performed one eye at a time and using a local anaesthetic, meaning patients remain awake but relaxed during the surgery, which usually takes no more than 30 minutes. It is offered at various convenient locations in and around Swindon, both privately and on the NHS, ensuring easy access for local residents. The recovery time is short, and most people experience a
significant improvement in their vision within a few days.
One of the most remarkable outcomes of cataract surgery is that many patients find they are less reliant on spectacles afterwards. With the cloudy lens replaced by a clear artificial one, the need for glasses can often be reduced, making daily tasks much easier.
If you're experiencing difficulty with blurred vision or glare, particularly with the changing winter light, why not make an appointment
for a sight test with your optometrist, who will be able to give you advice on the best solution for your eye care needs.
Find your local branch of Haine & Smith opticians at www.haineandsmith.co.uk
Shaw Chiropractic - at the heart of the community for a quarter of a century
Sandy first opened the doors to Shaw Chiropractic in 1998. Not only were our TVs and mobile phones larger back then but chiropractic was also a much less-known profession in the UK. Fast forward to 2025 and we are celebrating our 27th birthday of providing safe, authentic and principled chiropractic care to the population of Swindon and beyond. Doctors
of Chiropractic Callum and Max delivered over 4500 adjustments in 2024, continuing Sandy’s legacy whilst growing public awareness of the SacroOccipital Technique in Swindon (SOT).
SOT ensures your brain and body are communicating effectively by balancing your skeleton and nervous system. The chiropractors at Shaw Chiropractic Clinic have been
seeing patients with all sorts of health complaints: from sleep problems to migraines, from digestive issues to low back pain. SOT chiropractors look at how the balance of the skeleton might impact the main communication pathways between brain and body – the nervous system.
The technique aligns seamlessly with Callum and Max’s mission to empower
individuals to lead happier and healthier lives without the use of medication or surgery.
Shaw Chiropractic Clinic looks forward to continuing to grow the awareness of the SacroOccipital Technique in Swindon, whilst welcoming all old and new patients to the clinic in 2025.
A focus on health and wellbeing
The Art of Mindful Goal Setting
A piece by Better Swindon at The Link Centre
As we welcome in a new year many of us will be thinking about what we might like to achieve and setting ourselves some goals. It’s an all-toofamiliar scene particularly around our health, wellbeing and fitness but for some reason these can be long forgotten and given up on by the time we reach February.
Here are some top tips for setting yourself some goals that are achievable, interesting and set you up for success.
1. Make them exciting and of real value to you. Every single goal will involve elements of sacrifice. Acknowledge that and consider what those sacrifices are likely to be. The value of the result
Do
of the goal needs to be bigger than the sacrifice. For example just aiming to lose weight will soon fade out with January, however wanting to get fitter to keep up with your kids has a much greater incentive.
2.
SMART goals
A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed up by consistent action makes your dreams come true. Specific – Be very clear what the goal is. Measurable –Track your success and steps forward? Achievable – Set yourself up for success by being honest about the time and resources you can dedicate to your goal. Realistic – If you set goals that are unrealistic then mentally you will feel like
you know what Chiropractic is?
Chiropractic is a form of treatment that is used to help alleviate many musculoskeletal problems and any associated issues they can cause such as nerve or muscle pain, or even pain in other joints caused by the body compensating. The treatment uses a variety of manipulative and soft tissue techniques that can improve the function and alignment of the joints, therefore relieving pain and muscle spasm, and overall increase mobility. Some of these techniques can produce clicking noises but not always, this can be a bit of a ‘marmite’ element that some people love, and others hate. The techniques we use will depend on many factors such as the condition we are treating, the age of the patient and their personal feelings. If you are in the ‘hate’ group and do not like the idea of ‘having their neck clicked’ then we can use other treatment techniques to help. We cannot treat everyone the same.
Hear Clear:
you’re failing despite the fact that you are making progress. Under-promise and overdeliver, committing to hitting the gym twice and finding the time to squeeze in an extra session will have you feeling like you’ve smashed your week and motivate you for the next.
3. Write them down and pin them up where you’ll see them.
Pinning them up by your bathroom mirror will help you set your intention every morning while you brush your teeth and keep your goal fresh in your mind.
4. Recruit help and mix things up.
Letting the people around you know what your goal, and possibly working together with a friend or colleague with a
similar goal, always helps. Keeping things interesting in working towards your goal will stop it feeling so much of a chore, for example set out to try a new fitness class each week.
Be excited by your goals, be creative in your approach, and be kind to yourself.
At Chiropractic Health we offer a ‘free screen’ service where you can come in and chat to us about your issue.
We can discuss whether Chiropractic is likely to help and put a plan together on how to move forwards. It is free of charge but there is no treatment given.
If you would like more information or to visit us for either the free screen or a full initial assessment, give us a call on 01793 602454, or check out the website at www. chiropractichealthcentres.com
While the majority of our treatment is for low back or neck pain, we can also treat many other areas such as the shoulder, knee or hip as well as less joint-related issues such as headaches and migraines.
You Fit - your destination for fitness
If you’re looking for a gym or a swimming pool in Swindon You Fit is the health club for you.
Join You Fit Swindon today to start your fitness and wellbeing journey.
The team will ensure you always feel welcome and inspired by providing you expert advice whilst guiding you through your workout, whether that be in the fullyequipped gym, in one of the exercise classes or whilst you relax in the swimming pool, sauna or spa pool.
You Fit's exercise classes are open to all members and cater for all fitness levels, allowing you to work out at your own pace and within your own comfort level.
Classes include stretch, aqua aerobics, yoga, and pilates. It can be found at You Fit Health Club, Holiday Inn Swindon on Marlborough Road, just off the Coate Water roundabout. For details call 01793 817 012 or email swindon@youfitclubs.co.uk www. youfitclubs.co.uk/club/ swindon Use Online Promo Code NEWYOU to enjoy £0 joining fee!
A focus on health and wellbeing
Take part in the Longevity Games
The Longevity Games is a fitness initiative that’s all about helping people of all ages and abilities maintain their health and functional strength as they grow older. It focuses on promoting healthy aging and building a strong, supportive community through a variety of challenging activities. Participants test themselves across functional movements and exercises, competing within their ability level.
Levels for Everyone
To ensure accessibility, we offer three levels of participation:
Novice – Perfect for those just starting their fitness journey or returning to exercise.
Intermediate – Designed for participants with some experience looking for a moderate challenge.
Proficient – For seasoned fitness enthusiasts who want to push their limits.
Five Events in 2025
The first event takes place on 9 February at Delta Tennis Swindon. This venue offers a great space for participants to take part in the Games in a weatherproof setting. Entries are now open. Entries close on Sunday, 26 January 2025.
Other events during 2025 include Swindon Harriers Athletics Track and Moredon Sports Hub.
Whether you aim to complete a level stronger or faster or challenge yourself to level up as the year progresses, The Longevity Games provides the perfect platform to stay motivated and track progress. To enter visit www. thelongevitygames.co.uk to sign up.
Swindon Dental & Implant Clinic: Your Smile, Our Care
Did you know that some “healthy” foods, like granola bars or flavoured yoghurts, can contain as much sugar as a chocolate bar?
These hidden sugars feed the bacteria in your mouth, producing acids that weaken enamel and cause decay. To protect your teeth, check labels for added sugars and pair sugary snacks with mealtimes rather than between meals to reduce the risk of decay.
At Swindon Dental & Implant Clinic, we believe in empowering patients with knowledge. That’s why we take the time to explain how your diet, habits, and overall health affect your teeth. From preventative care to advanced
Slinn Allstars Running Club - fun for everyone
A running club for everyone in Swindon, we think Fun, Friendship and Fitness are the words that sum us up!
We run two beginners' courses each year, the hardest part of starting the New Year taking up a new sport or getting involved with any physical activity is getting started. By the end of the 10-week course most people are able to run for 5K, approx. three miles nonstop.
The sense of achievement and the support that the other members offer you really makes you feel part of the group. Once you have successfully completed the course you are encouraged to join the Slinn Allstars running club, where you will be able to participate in a variety of running events and get the opportunity to be part of the biggest running club in Swindon.
Running is a popular form of exercise for a reason. It doesn’t need much equipment, and you can do it just about anywhere or anytime it is convenient for you.
Our next beginners course starts with an information and registration evening as follows:
• Date: Tuesday 14 January 2025 at 6.45pm
• Address: St John’s Church Hall, Haydon Wick, Swindon, SN25 1QP (next to Morrisons)
treatments like dental implants and sedation for anxious patients, our approach is always patientcentred.
Right now, you can book a New Patient Assessment with 10% OFF—a great way to start understanding and improving your oral health in the New Year. Call 01793 384 155 or visit www.swindondentalimplants. co.uk to book. Let us help you take control of your dental health for a brighter, healthier smile.
You will not be doing any running on this day.
The 10-week running course starts the following Tuesday 21st January 2025, 6.45pm arrival for a 7.00pm Start. Website www.slinnallstars. co.uk
DiveInclusive: Transforming Lives Through Scuba Diving
DiveInclusive is a Swindon-based charity breaking barriers by introducing children to the exciting world of scuba diving. Our programs aim to enhance health, confidence, and community engagement through weekly sessions at Ridgeway Leisure Centre.
Scuba diving offers unique well-being benefits, from improving cardiovascular health and building muscle strength to reducing stress and encouraging mindfulness. More than a sport, it’s an avenue for self-confidence, resilience, and teamwork—skills that benefit young people throughout their lives.
Our programs are being rolled out in phases, and we are currently accepting registrations for children from ethnic minority backgrounds. Future phases will expand to include young carers, disadvantaged kids and disabled children, ensuring more young people can experience the joy and growth that scuba diving brings.
Thanks to our sponsors and partnerships, most sessions are free
or heavily subsidized, including beginner-friendly Discover Scuba Diving classes and advanced certifications like the PADI Junior Open Water.
One parent said: “DiveInclusive has been an amazing opportunity for my child to learn a unique skill while growing in confidence and community.”
To stay informed about new program phases and opportunities, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @DiveInclusive. Let’s make waves of positive change in Swindon and beyond. For more information or to register, visit www.diveinclusive.com or email enquiries@diveinclusive.com. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive future!
Welcome to St Francis
St Francis C of E Primary School opened in September 2004 and provides education for children from nursery (aged 3) up to the end of Year 6 (aged 11).
Our main aim is to give all children the opportunity to develop their full potential. The school welcomes children with a range of backgrounds, abilities and talents.
Within a happy and secure atmosphere, the children are valued for themselves and experience a wide range of balanced learning opportunities which will help them grow into independent and caring people. We believe that our strong Christian ethos enables our children to value each other and the things around them.
Our Vision
We believe that children are a gift from God and each one is unique with their own potential and character.
Our school is a diverse community where equality and collaboration are celebrated and where children flourish and develop curiosity and resilience through opportunity and spiritual moments, underpinned by a broad and exciting curriculum so that children are ready to take their place in the world
We want our children to develop a sense of LOVE for God, a LOVE for each other, a LOVE for our learning and a LOVE for the world.
School Profile: St Francis C of E Primary School
Get to know the schools in your area
This issue: St Francis C of E Primary School
Website: stfrancis.swindon.sch.uk
Our Facilities
Our school has fantastic facilities including a purpose-built, highquality building, computing suite, library, nurture room, on site kitchen and an Early Years area. Our large grounds boast playing fields, a substantial enclosed forest, an extra-large sandpit, den area, fort and sports courts.
At St Francis, we provide amazing playtimes, for all children, every day. The children have access to a variety of zones that spread across our whole school site. These are supervised by our fantastic Play Team. In July 2024 we were awarded the highest award for OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning).
We are proud of the recent inspection outcomes and reports from OFSTED and SIAMS which underline the breadth, high expectations and lively rounded experiences children have during their time at St Francis, supported by a wonderful team of committed and talented professionals.
Our curriculum:
We have three overarching principles that thread through our teaching and learning each year. These are Kindness, Courage and Character.
Our vision and values enable the whole school community to be challenged in their learning through a strong Christian ethos, supported by timely pastoral care and developed through consistently excellent teaching and learning. We offer deep, diverse and challenging experiences that allow children and adults to flourish. We use our wonderful facilities to bring the curriculum to life as well as carefully selected trips. Our older children also look forward to staying away from home on our residentials. We enjoy themed weeks such as Science week and career themed days. These broaden children’s understanding of their learning, the wider world as well as raising their aspirations. During their time at St Francis, children have the opportunity to learn musical instruments weekly and all children participate in a range of performances through the year.
Business Profile - Ridgeway Rise Care Home
Business Type - Purpose-built care home and nursing home
According to the team at Ridgeway Rise everything they do is people-centred.
"We're a home that has a real emphasis on being a home," a spokesperson explained.
"It is our residents' home and we have the privilege of caring for them.
"We say everything we do is person-centred. It's not as though we have a cookie cutter approach and everyone has to do the same thing. We take a lot of time in helping residents settle into their new home - and also help their families, because it's a really big decision to make which can be a very difficult time.
"We really get to know that person as an individual."
Residents range from people who simply need the comfort, companionship and varied programme of activities a wellrun care home can offer, to people with more acute needs, such a those with dementia or who are approaching the end of their life.
All are promised dignity, kindness and the opportunity to pursue hobbies and interests.
"We really encourage people to continue with hobbies, or perhaps to pick up ones that
have lapsed for a number of reasons, but what we also do is present them with new things that they perhaps would not have tried or never even considered doing.
"Inside the home we have a hair and beauty salon. A hairdresser comes in. We have cinema. We've got beautiful landscaped gardens, so if you're a little bit green-
links with our local community, and that's really important because a lot of people will have had those links before they moved in with us.
"We're always out and about in the community, we're always taking our residents out, be it to the local age-related group, a local cafe for a cuppa and a cake, going to a garden centre, going to the pub - all of those
fingered and still want to be doing gardening, everything we do is accessible to everyone."
Other features of life at Ridgeway Rise range from live entertainment to music therapy and animal therapy, both of which can stimulate reassuring memories.
"We really try to maintain
things that a person has done before they moved into the home.
"Quite often it's difficult for family members to facilitate that, but when somebody moves into our home we're able to reignite it and bring back all those happy moments."
A care home where helping residents are seen as a privilege and not just duty
The personnel at Ridgeway Rise includes not just a team of carers and qualified nurses who are on duty at all times but other team members ranging from skilled chefs to maintenance, housekeeping and laundry teams.
A spokesperson said: "Our team are the kindest, most passionate, most caring individuals.
"We have a really talented and experienced awardwinning team, and they are there to support our residents. That support means different things for every single resident because we do this personcentred care. Our home manager has been working at this home for five years, and I think that really demonstrates how committed our team is."
The spokesperson readily summed up the overall ethos of the home in caring for residents and making sure their needs are met as well as providing a warm and inviting homely setting with the best care and an enriched lifestyle: "It's a real privilege."
Looking forward to a positive New Year for Swindon
A column by Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Jim Robbins
I hope that you have all had a very merry Christmas, and want to wish all Link readers a very Happy New Year! I’m really hoping that 2025 will see positive news for Swindon and us all.
We certainly feel that we have made steady progress at improving the council over the last 18 months after taking over the control of Swindon Borough Council but know that we still have more work to do to make the council into the more effective and more responsive organisation that is really working well with residents to support them and build the better Swindon we all want to see.
We have seen positive news through 2024 with the Local Government Association Peer Review, the Staff survey
and most importantly, the Resident survey all showing improvement, and we have received a letter from Ofsted setting out the progress we have made since the council Children’s Services were judged as inadequate, as we took over.
Whilst it is great to have these measures saying that we are going in the right direction, we know that there is much more work to do. We need to keep up the pace of improvements, work on our transformation plans designed to being more preventative services back into the council, and deal with the challenging
financial picture, whilst still delivering the Swindon plan, our ambitious missions which will help us deliver a Fairer, Better, and Greener Swindon.
At the time of writing, we aren’t yet sure of the Financial Settlement for next year, although we are pleased by the change in approach from the new Government which feels much more like a partnership than we have had before. As we work on the budget through January and into February, we will be trying to balance the need to make cuts with the challenge of ensuring that services are protected and have the resources to deliver.
The Swindon plan is on target, with a number of milestones already achieved and plenty more in progress as we go through the year. We have set up delivery boards to ensure that the missions are on track, and we will be commencing
these in the New Year.
We are looking forward to 2025, with progress expected on the Oasis, the Locarno, new development by Panattoni on the old Honda site, the Health Hydro reopening, the final completion of the long-running Fleming Way works, continuing to work with the Arts Council to get more funding for the town, the opening of a new youth centre, developing the plans for a new entertainments venue, and continuing to drive forward the ambitious Heart of Swindon plans and the Knowledge Central development at the railway station, and much more planned. We’ll reflect on a lot of positives, not least the recent news Swindon MP Heidi Alexander becoming the new Secretary of State for Transport, and look forward to a positive 2025 for Swindon. I really hope it is a brilliant year for you and your family.
Who to join forces with as local government devolution beckons
A column by borough council
Conservative Group Leader
Cllr Gary Sumner
A strategy on devolution setting out how Government will transfer power from Westminster to local authorities will be published in the next four weeks.
Councils were asked to submit expressions of interest by the end of September but unfortunately, other than a couple of conversations I have had with Jim Robbins, there has been no cross-party discussion on such an important matter. Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire Councils have revised their joint Expression of Interest and Swindon risks being left behind as these new deals are forged. What is clear is that with the new Government direction and the council’s worsening financial position, Swindon cannot continue as a
stand-alone local authority.
A devolution deal with Wiltshire will help ensure the success of our defence, digital, life sciences and manufacturing businesses, and help to kickstart economic growth.
It is crucial that Swindon continues to talk with all its neighbours. We are the gateway into the South West and the Cotswolds, and in my view, the proposed ‘Heart of Wessex’ devolution deal is a compelling offer that could
make a positive difference to the future of our town and surrounding villages.
It would surely be sensible to find out the pros and cons of all the options open to Swindon in order for there to be an informed cross-party discussion, and ideally a consensus. Swindon risks being left behind, or worse, we end up with a secret deal done behind closed doors and one in which we become a lesser player.
In my conversations with the Leader of Wiltshire council, it is transparently obvious that the expression of interest to Government for a joint devolution deal with Wiltshire and other natural partners ensures clear, accountable leadership to drive economic growth, improve public services, and invest in vital infrastructure across the region. The existing cross-area working in Fire, Police, Health and Economic
Development all point to the strengths of Swindon being part of the ‘Heart of Wessex’ devolution idea. The proposal is not about councils merging because devolution is the handing down of powers and decision making from Central Government to new 'local partnerships' and Swindon’s Economic position would be a key contributor to a successful bid and a viable new devolved administrative area.
The other parties have extended an invitation to the current Swindon administration to join them, but bizarrely, they are currently focused on a ‘Thames Valley’ concept with Oxford, Slough and Berkshire.
If you ask the people of Swindon whether they feel part of Wiltshire or part of Slough, I am confident I know what the answer will be.
After all, Swindon is already in Wiltshire.
A world of wonders at Swindon's 2025 Festival of Tomorrow
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Journey the depths of the ocean, uncover a hothouse of giant botanical robots, or experience the world through the senses of a spider as the Festival of Tomorrow returns.
The festival, set to run from Monday 10 to Saturday 22 February, blends the creative arts with research and innovation to explore the ideas that will shape our shared future.
Organisers say Swindonians can look forward to an even bigger programme of performances, immersive art, events and free drop-in activities than ever before, thanks to support from key
February half-term.
Whilst the full programme is still under wraps for now,
partners UK Research and Innovation, Business West and Arts Council England.
For 2025, artists, performers, researchers, universities and organisations from across the UK will be coming together to re-imagine Our Future Earth.
The fun will kick off with a free programme of workshops, performances and online shows for Swindon primary schools, followed by an exciting line up of events, art installations and free family activities at venues about the town during
Swindon families can look forward to free events and activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the half-term week.
Festival favourites Air Giants are back, with their brandnew creation - Hot House – an interactive garden of 2.5 metre tall otherworldly inflatable plant sculptures, brought to life with their pioneering robotic technology. Meanwhile, shoppers at the Designer Outlet will experience the magic of marine life, as
Incredible Oceans bring the vibrant world beneath the waves to the surface.
Adults are also catered for with events covering a fascinating range of topics and speakers from the worlds of art and design, social sciences, innovation, the environment and space.
The festivities will culminate in a two-day Finale Extravaganza on Friday and Saturday 21 and 22 February,
Visitors can expect live demonstrations, hands-on science and creative activities and fun challenges from organisations including the James Dyson Foundation, Catalent and many leading universities - as well as immersive planetarium shows from family-favourites Explorer Dome.
To be first in line for tickets and the latest Festival announcements, people can
taking place once again at The Deanery CE Academy in Wichelstowe.
sign up for updates at www. festivaloftomorrow.com
LINK CULTURE
By Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com
Swindon music fans are definitely going to be in for a treat at the end of January with the first ever Swinterfest taking place.
Swinterfest will be held from Thursday 30 January to Sunday 2 February at four venues across Old Town.
The venues are The Tuppenny in Devizes Road, The Castle in Prospect Place, The Vic on Victoria Road and The Beehive on Prospect Hill.
And the line-up is cracking with Courting Ghosts, Stay Lunar, Subject A and All Ears Avow taking the headline slots.
But with the rest of the line-up filled up with the likes of SN Dubstation, Canute's Plastic Army, Modern Evils, Wild Isles, Concrete Prairie, George Wilding, Nothing Rhymes With Orange and Adders, to name but a few, it is definitely looking like a weekend that will sit long in the memory.
The new festival is the brainchild of the people behind The Swindon Shuffle and will see bands playing on the Thursday and Friday evening, and then during the day into the evening on Saturday and Sunday.
The first ever Swinterfest is headline sponsored by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation). UKRI is the largest public funder of research and innovation in the UK. They invest £8 billion of taxpayers’ money each year
Swinterfest
to bring one hell of a lineup to chase away the
into research and innovation and the people who make it happen. UKRI, who have offices in Polaris House, have a long history of supporting the arts and have supported a variety of different projects.
It is also sponsored by Swindon Link and will be raising money for Prospect Hospice during the event.
Organiser Ed Dyer said:
"We've been running The Swindon Shuffle now for nearly 20 years and it has built up a real community around it.
"We felt that we needed an event during the winter months to bring that community together once again and to act as an event that will go into battle against that really miserable time in January and February. We think of it as an injection of happiness into Swindon at a time of year when it's really needed.
"It will also be another opportunity to raise funds for Prospect Hospice, as well as support grassroots music and live music venues.
"This year, we're starting with what we do best and galvanising the music scene to take part. But the plans are to expand the festival in years to come to include different aspects of the arts from comedy to dance and theatre to art.
"We're very proud of the line-up that we've put together. Swinter is coming and it's going to be great."
swinterfest.org.uk
winter blues
Stay Lunar
All Ears Avow
Modern Evils
Be a part of award-winning Pride team
Swindon & Wiltshire Pride is expanding and the charity is seeking enthusiastic and passionate volunteers for yearround committee roles.
The expansion follows a year which included being a finalist at the prestigious British LGBT awards, and a successful move to a new venue.
The registered charity are currently seeking individuals to fill the positions of
Administrator, Communications Manager, Pride Hub Manager, Accessibility & Inclusion Manager, Event Co-ordinator, Social Media Content Creator, Trustees, and Deputy Community Engagement Manager.
Anyone considering applying can email chair@ swindonwiltshirepride.org.uk or visit swindonwiltshirepride.org. uk/join-the-pride-committee
Swindon's newest club night getting ready for launch LINK
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Lovers of all things Indie, New Wave, Synth Pop and plenty of other genres have a new monthly club night to look forward to in 2025.
Ashes to Dust is the brainchild of DJ Dust, and the venue is the much-loved Levels Nightclub at 73 Commercial Road.
Launch night is Saturday 18 January, and the club night will then be held on Saturdays 15 February, 22 March and 19 April.
The launch night, from 9pm to 3am, will also feature special guest DJ Mark E Moon. and entry will cost £5.
Fans are promised the cream of music and videos from artists including:
- Cure
- Human League
- Garbage
- Talk Talk
- Stone Roses
LINK POETRY
My parents had strokes in their early sixties, their fridge a cholesterol time-bomb.
My mother lost her left side, my father his right so they leaned against each other in their slow three-legged race.
No surprise then when I had a stroke recently. I was walking Rocky when my face went numb.
I thought it was a bee
- Pulp
- Editors
- Muse
- Blondie
- LCD Soundsystem
- Siouxsie & The Banshees
- Fad Gadget
- Depeche Mode
- Goldfrapp
- Kate Bush
- New Order
- Jam
- Blur
- Simple Minds
- Bomb The Bass
- KLF
- White Stripes
- Pop Will Eat Itself
- Curve
- Kasabian
- Knife
- Carter USM
- Visage
- Yello
- Bananarama
- La Roux
- Levellers
- Gossip
- Charlatans
- Roxy Music
- Smiths
- Inspiral Carpets
- PJ Harvey
- Kim Wilde
Full details can be found at ashestodust.uk
Reflections on aftermath of a health crisis
Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon
sting at first. Then my left arm went numb.
I knew it was a stroke, so I headed home, a weird walk in the dark. I felt removed, like a spirit hovering over myself, involved but not committed, reflecting on my parents, rescheduling commitments.
But first I did a bloke-thing. I put the orange boxes and waste bin out for collection.
My wife didn’t hang about. I was in A&E as my leg gave way and a few days more until they found the clot.
I’m on the mend, face recovered, and my left leg is normal.
The amazing NHS medics were fabulous and surprised by my recovery.
Being healthy and fit for my 75 years was important.
Let’s face it, we can’t avoid the nasties – cancer and stroke in particular – but a fit non-smoker with normal weight has every chance of a quick recovery.
If I hadn’t been fit, it’s possible this would’ve been a
blank page, a metaphor for regret.
At times like this I turn to Mary Oliver. Here are lines from “The Journey”: and there was a new voice which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do— determined to save the only life you could save.
January events: www. poetryswindon.com
www.mauricespillane.co.uk
New Mountain Bike Skills Sessions for kids
Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign.
Building on the success of training over 250 children to ride a bike in 2024, Moredon Sporting Hub (MSH) is planning more kids' cycling clubs in 2025 to provide opportunities for kids to have fun on bikes.
The cycling clubs and sessions are designed to be affordable and inclusive, giving children a chance to try different cycling disciplines and develop a love of cycling.
The site already boasts two road cycling clubs for kids, Peloteens and PACVELO cycling, run by cycling coach Paul Ashman on Monday evenings.
Saturdays see the CV Mini Racers practice their cyclocross skills, and cycling coach Jennifer Purcell runs monthly ‘Wingz’ BMX sessions for kids with SEN.
There will be four introductory sessions, with the option of continuing after the four weeks to more advanced skills.
It’s £6 per session, with bikes and helmets being available to borrow if required, at no extra cost.
The sessions will be led by experienced mountain bike coaches, Adrian Rogers and Heather Ponting-Bather.
Children joining the sessions need not have any previous experience of mountain biking, providing they are confident cycling independently on two wheels.
Sessions will run between 10.30am and 12.30pm on the following Saturday mornings:
In January Moredon Sporting Hub will be launching ‘Knobbly Tyres’, an introduction to Mountain Biking for kids aged from 6 to 16.
Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer
Goodbye and good riddance to 2024, and hello reluctantly to 2025.
A year which we’ll not be looking forward to, instead we’ll be looking backwards. It’s a pretty bleak outlook, but it only matches the state of Swindon Town Football Club. Off the pitch, it feels like we're back to square one. Certainly not for the first time, and probably not for the last time the relationship between fans and owner is at rock bottom. It’s always upsetting to see, but this time it hurts just that little bit more.
When Clem Morfuni first came to Swindon, he brought with him a great sense of optimism and enthusiasm. For one magical season we dared to dream as we reached the playoffs. From there it’s only fair to say that the ownership has made mistake after
- Saturday 11 January
- Saturday 25 January
- Saturday 8 February
The fourth session will take place in the February Half Term, with the date to be confirmed soon.
Booking is essential to
reserve a space. For further information about this session and other cycling sessions available at Moredon Sporting Hub, centralswindonnorth-pc. gov.uk/moredon-sporting-hub/ cycling/
A Happy New Year - but not at STFC LINK FOOTBALL
mistake.
As a result, the fans are rightly angry and frustrated.
The sharply declining attendance figures illustrate this fact. Town have gone from getting gates of 10,000-plus to struggling to scrape 6,000, which still is a magnificent effort for this end of League 2.
So, what is the answer?
That's not my place to say, but what I will say is that change will not come overnight.
Any ownership change, shares acquired, or investment installed will require a lengthy vetting process from the football authorities.
To put it simply, Swindon are stuck at the very least for the remainder of the season with what they have.
Should there be change over the summer, we again know from recent experience that there is no magic wand.
Swindon have a lot of healing to do on that side of affairs.
On the pitch, to their credit I’m seeing signs of progress; Ian Holloway has found a way in recent weeks to simplify the game plan and add more energy.
But what I thought would be a good defence have reverted to old habits. If Swindon are to have a good second half of the season, they really must fix the defence, the discipline, and the set piece defence.
And the fact that I’m saying this leads me to believe that it
will remain a case of looking backwards on the pitch rather than forwards in 2025. Which is unacceptable but realistic.
But to finish off on a positive note, I’d like to dedicate a few words towards Harry Smith.
Town’s top scorer this season deserves every ounce of credit.
I’ll be honest with you, I wouldn’t have minded seeing the back of Smith earlier in the season after a poor start and a stupid sending off.
Since then, he has been a completely different player. It has got to the point where I look to see his name first on the team sheet.
And why wouldn’t I? He has done a tremendous job of late. So, there we have it, time for another year of this.
And it’s time to give those on the pitch all our support, as in 2025 they might just need it more than ever.
• Extensions • Driveways
• Conservatories • Patios
• Garden Walls • Fencing
All general building and landscaping projects undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL
Call Stewart on 07841 826390 for a Free Estimate
• Disabled extra high toilets fitted
• Tap washers & ball valves
• Toilet cistern repairs
• Kitchen taps fitted
• Extensions
• Garage
• Conservatories
• Garden Walls
• Patios & Fencing
• Plastering
• Wall & Floor Tiling
• Laminate &
• Block Paving
• Painting &
The Park Academies Trust is consulting on proposed changes to the Admission Arrangements for Abbey Park School, Lydiard Park Academy, The Deanery CE Academy, Red Oaks Primary School and Kingfisher CE Academy for pupil admissions for 2026-27
Information on the proposed changes and details of how you can take part in the consultation can be found on the Trust website via: www.theparkacademiestrust.com/our-schools
Responses to this consultation process should be made by 17th January 2025.
Responses will be considered at a meeting on 4th February 2025 and a final decision on the Admission Arrangements for these schools will be made by 28th February 2025.
Looking for fun, friendship and fitness?
0 - 5k BEGINNERS RUNNING COURSE
starting on 21st January 2025 6.45pm - £30 In just 10 weeks we will help you run non-stop for 5km
INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION EVENING
Tuesday 14th January 6.45pm start at St John’s Church Hall Thames Ave/Westfield Way Haydon Wick SN25 4QP
For more information: Email: running@slinnallstars.co.uk www.slinnallstars.co.uk
Affiliated to England Athletics
Qualified Running Coaches Supported by Qualified Mental Health First Aiders
