North West Swindon Link January 2022

No 475 January 2022 GPS-tracked, door to door delivery to over 42,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 105,000

Swindon

LINK Your Community Magazine

North & West Edition

Pic by Stuart Harrison

The Oasis gets listed p8

swindonlink.com

Swindon students go all out for the environment p4

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Swindon teacher pens book during lockdown

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk A teacher at Royal Wootton Bassett's Noremarsh Junior School penned her first book, 'Meet The Grubblers' during lockdown.

Sarah Louise, who teaches Year 5 at Noremarsh published 'Meet The Grubblers' on Monday, 13 December.

She said she had dreamt about writing this book for years and lockdown was the event that finally gave her the time and inspiration to bring her characters to life.

With the help of Teaching Assistant Amy Ashworth, Sarah has written an enchanting story with magical characters on a quest to reclaim their woodland home.

Sarah said: “I’ve written short stories for years. I started writing this book ages ago and then over lockdown I really just went for it and adapted it a little bit to incorporate the

lockdown.

"It’s about a little girl called Emily at the start of lockdown and it is the imaginary world that she goes into to help her manage."

It is the first of three books and Sarah says the characters are all based on little personalities that she has met over the years.

She added: “The first book travels back to the Victorian times, the Grubblers are the main characters really. They are these funny little men and women who ended up losing the rights to their woodland home years ago and now want it back. The girl, Emily, is on a different quest but fate pushes them together and although they have different aims the Grubblers try to use the girl to get to their end goal."

Each book will have a different setting, with the second book focusing on deforestation. The second book will see the characters visit the rainforest, trying to persuade

Amy, (left) and Sarah

people not to ruin the world.

She continued: "I’ve done a bit of research and there’s very few books about Romans so I’m going to send them back to Italy for the third book.

There will be quite a lot of facts in the books as well."

Amy Ashworth has a background in art, graphics and fine art from university.

She said: “I’ve never done anything like this before and I think it was my biggest challenge, because to read a book and to then do drawings of what you think the author wants them to look like was quite a big pressure.

“The first Grubbler I drew

was similar to my husband, and then the final one’s like my dad. Sarah would come back and say he needs to be a bit chubbier and grubbier and or his nose needs to be a bit more squashed like a troll.

"Doing the book with Sarah just felt like a bit of team work. There wasn’t a lot of pressure, we just did it together and it felt really right. I would love to do more."

Meet the Grubblers is aimed at primary school children with something to offer both younger and older readers. It is available to buy online from Amazon, Waterstones and Foyles for £8.99.

Looking forward to a brighter and more optimistic 2022 The last couple of years have been difficult for all of us.

As I'm writing this, 2021 is determined to leave us with a bang as we all rush around getting boosters to stem the tide of the dreaded Omicron.

It's been hard, at times, to be optimistic as this pandemic has had a stranglehold on nearly every facet of everyday life from simply popping to the

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson Reporter: Jessica Durston Sales: Dave Stewart and Rosy Presley Accounts Manager: Karen Randall Contributors: Tyler Ody, Leigh Robinson, Becky Cox, Maurice Spillane and Alfie Howlett

shops to even simply hanging out with friends.

But there are many reasons to be optimistic as we're in a completely different situation than we were at this time last year where we entered lockdown from January.

This is mainly because the majority of us are now jabbed and the majority of us will also be boosted by the time 2022

comes around.

Business in Swindon is bouncing back and we've seen our cultural institutions also coming back in force.

Swindonians are a strong old bunch who always look out for each other so together we can make 2022 as bright as possible.

Jamie Hill, Group Editor jamie@positive-media.co.uk

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The Eco Briefing

Swindon Sixth Form Students join forces planting trees for the Queen’s Green Canopy United College Sixth Form, based at Swindon Academy, and Marlborough College Sixth Form students donned their wellies to plant 420 saplings on Wednesday 8 December, as part of the two schools’ ongoing partnership.

30 students worked together to plant the trees at Granham Hill, an area of grassland owned by Marlborough College at the edge of the town centre, with a public footpath running through it.

The trees were donated by the Woodland Trust to Swindon Academy, and the project provided an opportunity for students to combat climate change and will leave a natural area for the benefit of wildlife.

The intention is that this environmentally focused project will be passed on from year to year, with students continuing to visit and look after the health

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of the trees as they grow, using a programme of cyclical maintenance.

Ruth Robinson, Executive Principal at Swindon Academy, said: “This is an exciting, long term project which will help to maintain our close relationship with Marlborough College, bringing our students together in a practical activity, and creating a positive impact on the environment.

“We are keen to get the next phase of the project moving in Swindon. Swindon Academy is planting fruit trees in our grounds, but we’re on the lookout for a local landowner – public or private - who could offer land for planting, in particular the Penhill and Pinehurst areas around the school."

Landowners who are interested in helping should contact Swindon Academy Geography Teacher, Will

Clements, at will.clements@ swindon-academy.org Mr Clements said: "All of the students really enjoyed the afternoon. We planted a mix of rowan, oak, silver birch, maple and grey willow.

"The College gardens team will then tend to them to ensure proper growth over the next few years."

Freya Isom, 16, of Swindon Academy said: "It was such a wonderful day.

"As a young person I was definitely keen to get involved with this project and do something positive for the

environment, especially in the wake of COP26."

The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) is a unique, UK-wide tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, by inviting people to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee."

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Swindon Borough Council details plans for Town Centre improvements A clear-eyed look at Swindon town centre and its journey to adapt to changing times is the subject of a new campaign being run by Swindon Borough Council.

Securing the town centre’s position as a place people choose to live in, work in and visit will require the collective effort and investment of landowners, developers, the Government and the council.

Economic conditions, investor confidence and government policy will also determine the pace of change as the country navigates a recovery from the pandemic.

The local authority is using the campaign as a means of engaging directly with local residents to answer some of their commonly asked questions about town centre regeneration, as well as tackle common misperceptions around the

council’s role and what it can – and can’t - directly influence.

Cllr Gary Sumner, Deputy Leader of Swindon Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Strategic Infrastructure, Transport and Planning, said: “We often see comments from residents calling on the council to sort out the town centre, but the reality is that we are only one part of a very complicated jigsaw.

“Most of the land and buildings in the town centre are under private ownership, which means we don’t set the rents, while we don’t have any control over business rates as they are set by Central Government.

“What we can do is use our assets, powers and influence to unlock changes. This means investing in the town centre public realm, land and buildings that we do own, as well as co-ordinating the efforts

of partners across the private, public and voluntary sectors.”

Over the next four years, £100m of council-led investment will be spent on a variety of projects to improve the heart of the town.

Cllr Sumner added: “Next year, work is set to begin on the £33m Fleming Way Bus Boulevard which will create a new bus interchange, pedestrian and cycle routes to make the centre of Swindon easier to access and move around.”

The council is also working with partners to deliver six town centre regeneration schemes through the Swindon Towns Fund Board worth £19.6M in total, including a project that will help unlock new homes and offices at Kimmerfields next to the brand new Zurich office.

Plans are in place to deliver a £6.5m refurbishment of

the historic Health Hydro, while the five-year £7.6M Swindon Heritage Action Zone programme is already underway. This will see the council working with partners to restore and repair neglected public buildings and bring them back into use, improve public spaces and connections between the historic railway village and the town centre.

Over the next few years the council will also be taking forward plans for a brand new Cultural Quarter at Kimmerfields where the current bus station is located. This will include a 1,200-seat theatre, a new dance studio, a media and arts production centre and an art pavilion to display Swindon’s nationally-significant art collection.

More information can be found at: www.swindon.gov.uk/ towncentreregeneration

Primary school pupils went 20,000 extra miles for Beat the Street Haydonleigh Primary School has been honoured for the efforts of pupils in this year's Beat the Street competition.

The annual event encourages participants to walk, run, cycle or wheel themselves between checkpoints throughout the town, and promotes exercise and fitness.

The school collectively covered more than 20,000 miles during the event, taking first place in the North West Schools section for most points earned and second place in the same section for highest average score.

School Marketing and Office Supervisor Esme Wheatley said: "They are so pleased.

They put a lot of effort in. We do the Glow Walk, which we organise on one evening, which is immensely popular.

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that sort of thing here anyway - we have our walking bus on a Wednesday."

This year's event saw Beat the Street participants cover an official total of 319,874.5 miles over a period of six weeks, with almost 30,000 people getting out and about.

The total beat the previous record of 313,000 miles, set in 2018.

Beat the Street was brought to the town by Swindon Borough Council working in partnership with Wiltshire and Swindon Sport (WASP) and Swindon Healthy Schools. It was delivered by Intelligent Health.

Cllr Brian Ford, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “It has once again been a great experience to see Beat the Street taking place across Swindon and we’d like to thank everyone who took part."

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Council says Listed status for Oasis dome will make reopening harder

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard says the new Grade II listed status of the Oasis will make reopening the venue more difficult.

However, campaigners for the leisure centre's iconic dome to be preserved have welcomed the decision.

The centre closed in November of last year after then-operator GLL said it could not continue to operate the facility.

Leaseholder SevenCapital recently submitted a planning application which would have entailed removing the dome and reopening the centre.

The Grade II classification was awarded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on Historic England’s advice.

The swimming pool, opened in 1976, is described by Historic England as an early example

of a newly developed building type which went on to gain huge popularity in the 1970s and 80s, marking the cultural shift from swimming for fitness to swimming for fun.

Historic England says that most of the early examples of these buildings have now been lost to redevelopment.

Cllr Renard said: "We have always been absolutely committed to a new, fit-forpurpose leisure facility on the site of the Oasis for local

residents and visitors to enjoy, but there is no doubt the listing of the dome will make that process a lot more difficult, not to mention considerably more expensive.

“Our job now is to sit down with SevenCapital to see if there is any way it can bring forward a viable and sustainable plan for a modern facility on the Oasis site, despite the constraints that have been placed around the 1970s dome."

However, the listing was greeted with delight by the Save Oasis Swindon Campaign Steering Group.

It said in a statement: "While the SOS campaign did not apply to have the Oasis listed, it has both supported and fought for its listing and welcomes the 1 December listing decision to Grade II list the Oasis Dome and pool.

"Indeed, for the record, there were several months of virtual radio silence from both SBC and SevenCapital immediately after the Oasis closure. Communication by these key stakeholders improved in recent months and some actions have been taken.

However, there remains on the table, several unresolved issues which we are keen to explore further."

The campaigners said they hoped for a new planning application with the dome included.

Men encouraged not to be shy about wanting to lose weight

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk A slimming consultant who helps just over 150 people in North Swindon to lose weight each week says men shouldn’t be shy about joining a slimming group.

Heather, who runs the Tawhill PM and Redhouse AM Slimming World groups, has been reflecting since Men’s Health Week in June, which was focusing on obesity and the dangers of carrying excess weight around the waist.

The latest data from NHS Digital shows that 68 percent of men are overweight or obese compared to 58 percent of women. Slimming World and the Men’s Health Forum are calling for men to get support to lose weight.

Heather said: “Weight problems are common among both men and women, but figures show that men typically keep weight worries to themselves for as long six 8

Michael Da Cova from Redhouse as he was, left, and as he is

years, as many just don’t like to ask for help.

“The good news, though, is that more and more men are becoming open to the idea of getting support and there are now more than 60,000 men using Slimming World groups around the country – some of them are in my groups!"

Michael Da Cova from Redhouse has lost 7st with the group in just two years, through

the covid pandemic, and dropped several clothes sizes.

He said: “Joining Slimming World has been one of the best things I’ve ever done.

Before, I thought slimming groups were just for women and not my cup of tea at all – but after trying Slimming World online, I felt I wanted to find out more about face to face groups. With support from my family, I decided I

had nothing to lose by giving it a try.

“I was pretty nervous on my first morning, but from the moment I walked into the group everyone made me feel really welcome. There were other guys there too which helped put me at ease. Now those strangers have become a whole set of new mates, willing me on to do well each week.

"We have a good laugh in group, as well as share challenges, our plans for overcoming them, ideas for getting fit and active and plenty of recipes."

Anybody who would like to lose weight and join Slimming World is welcome at the Redhouse group, which meets every Friday at 9am and 10.30am at the Community Center.

Further information can be obtained by visting www. slimmingworld.co.uk/nearestgroup-search or calling Heather on 07816 860840.

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Mead Way reopens after series of delays A major Swindon traffic artery is open once more after extensive work to increase its capacity.

The multi-million pound Mead Way scheme, which got underway just before the start of the coronavirus pandemic, was beset by a number of issues which caused major delays and prevented the completion of the second phase of the project.

Swindon Borough Council said that, following work by utility companies to divert cables, pipes and ducts over the last couple of months, contractor Britannia Construction Ltd was able to lay the new surface. Stonehill Green has also reopened.

Care provider again rated outstanding Swindon-based First City Nursing Services has maintainined its Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) - the regulatory body that inspects health and care services.

Only four percent of community care providers are awarded an Outstanding rating and First City is amongst the largest providers to have been awarded this top grading twice.

Council running rough sleeping survey Swindon Borough Council wants people to complete a survey for the next Reducing Rough Sleeping Strategy.

The data will help the council to formulate a crucial aspect of policy for the years 202227. All are welcome to take part.

The survey, which runs until 31 January, can be found at www.swindon. gov.uk/info/20019/ consultations_engagement_ and_surveys/1223/reducing_ rough_sleeper_strategy_ review_consultation 10

Festival of Tomorrow organisers announce its return

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk Swindon people will once again be able to see the latest in science and technology and be asked to imagine what kind of future we want to create.

The Festival of Tomorrow will return in February, and the organisers promise an actionpacked exploration of the wonders of science, technology and research plus an incredible array of activities for all the family.

Festival director Rod Hebden said: "In 2021 we responded to the challenge of lockdown restrictions by going virtual, and we were blown away by the enthusiasm of the 2,000 families and over 5,000 school pupils who joined in from home.

"We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to an even bigger and better event in February, with an exciting mix of in-person, online and blended activities to

reach even more people across the town.”

The organisers plan to bring the excitement of the event to people across Swindon, with an inspiring virtual schools’ programme, town centre activities and online content all culminating in a two-day Festival held at The Deanery CE Academy in Wichelstowe.

While the full programme is still under wraps, visitors are promised the very latest discoveries and advances

of real scientists, engineers and researchers, covering everything from the future of space and robotics to Smart Cities and the latest innovations in the fight to tackle climate change.

Organisations which have so far signed up to take part include Swindon-based UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Intel, the UK Space Agency, The James Dyson Foundation and the Science Museum Group.

VIPs gathered for Pride of Swindon launch Mayor of Swindon Garry Perkins officially launched the Pride of Swindon Awards 2022.

The awards, first made in 2008, recognise people and teams whose work makes their community a better place.

Supporters include Swindon Link.

Cllr Perkins announced the opening of nominations during a ceremony at the Civic Offices attended by VIPs, sponsors and supporters.

Guests were introduced

by Swindon 105.5 radio station manager and Deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire Shirley Ludford, who has been a key figure in the awards throughout their history.

She said: "We've had all sorts of stories. We've had small children inspiring other children, we've had people with disabilities showing that disability is not a barrier, we've had people in business going that extra mile, we've

Mayor of Swindon Garry Perkins and borough council leader David Renard, front, pictured at the launch

had inspiring stories in sport, in education, in health, and stories of people who've served their community for years and years but never looked for recognition."

Swindon Link editor Jamie Hill said: "We have supported Pride of Swindon for the last few years and we absolutely love it.

"One of the things we love about Swindon is all the altruistic, selfless people going

out there and helping others.

"This is one of the reasons we love these awards - they are a way of saying 'thank you' to these people and these organisations that do it because they are lovely people."

Nominations can be made via www.swindon.gov.uk/ prideofswindonawards or using paper forms available at Shopmobility in the Sanford House car park and at Swindon 105.5 in Liden.

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Swindon amateur dramatics company return to Arts Centre for new year comedy Swindon's am-dram Phoenix Players group will give a performance of 'Ding Dong'

by Marc Camoletti and Tudor Gates this January.

The show will run from 26-29 January at the Arts Centre.

Performances will start at 7.30pm and tickets are priced at £12 with concessions at £10.

Tickets can be reserved via Pauline on 07517 698083 or by e-mailing bookings@ phoenix-players.com.

Whitehorse Badminton Club looking to recruit new members Swindon's Whitehorse Badminton club is inviting new members to join both its junior and adult sessions.

The club currently has just over 50 members but is looking for more people to join - especially women.

The adult sessions run twice weekly and junior sessions run once weekly.

More information can be found at www.whitehorsebc. com/

National Self-Build & Renovation Show to return for 2022 The National Self-Build & Renovation Show will return from 28 to 30 January.

The weekend will offer three days of master classes, case studies, seminars and a line up of experts on hand to share advice.

Led by the NSBRC’s own independent experts, the show aims to help individuals get the answers that sales teams might not tell them.

The venue for the event is located near Junction 16 of the M4, and free parking will be available.

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Old Town Bowl to rock out once again as festival reveals 2022 date Popular all-day charity festival My Dad's Bigger Than Your Dad will be returning to the Old Town Bowl in Swindon on Saturday 16 July.

The My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival will be held from midday until 10pm and early bird tickets are now on sale on their website.

This follows the inaugural festival which was held in August in tribute to David Young, the former landlord of The Victoria and 12 Bar, who died in early June at Prospect Hospice after a hard-fought battle against cancer.

The August festival, which raised £12,633 for Prospect Hospice, will once again be supporting the charity.

The line-up of the August event included Kova Me Badd, The Boys from County Hell, and Gaz Brookfield and The Company of Thieves.

The line-up of the 2022 event will be revealed in the next few

Gaz Brookfield at the festival earlier this year

months.

As well as the music there will be plenty of activities for all the family, and food and drink from a variety of locally based vendors, including a licensed bar.

Co-organiser Ed Dyer said: “We were humbled by the response to the event in 2021 and totally stunned by the amount of money raised for Prospect Hospice, which has made the decision whether to run the event again an easy one!

"We are really excited to once again be able to put

together a music festival in the heart of Old Town and to have the opportunity to make it bigger and better than before.”

The festival is now looking for local sponsorship.

Any businesses who are interested in supporting the community event should email festival@ mydadsbiggerthanyourdad. co.uk Limited Early Bird Tickets are available now from the website www. mydadsbiggerthanyourdad. co.uk

Swindon tattoo studio to offer drawing classes in the new year

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk Swindon tattoo and piercing studio The Trinity Collective has announced it will host four figure drawing sessions for members of the public inJanuary.

The figure drawing sessions are set to begin on 5 January and run each Wednesday for the remainder of the month.

Attendees are invited to bring an easel and any art supplies they may wish to use. Those who do not own an easel or art supplies will be catered for by The Trinity Collective.

All four sessions will cost £20 in total and there are five places available for booking.

The Trinity Collective's Ant Eagles says his figure drawing sessions aim to build or help people to remember their confidence to be able to create a mark on a piece of paper and work up to their artistic

goals.

He says he wants to help people to desensitize themselves from that inner voice that says 'that's no good' or 'I'm rubbish'.

Every exercise in each session will be a building block towards a final piece or level that the attendees have as a goal in their minds.

Ant added: "A masterpiece isn't painted in one session straight off the bat, it's built through tones, layers and experiments. The version of that beautiful finished piece that people have in their minds is attainable, I'm just going to hopefully be demonstrating some little techniques and building blocks to show people how to get there."

Those interested can send the studio a message via Facebook regarding registration and arrange a bank transfer or debit payment.

The Trinity Collective team will

not be able to issue refunds as the payments will fund the drawing sessions and all the materials for everyone in the group.

If an individual cannot attend one of the four sessions, they can gift the class to someone, so the space can be filled.

The Trinity Collective's Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/ trinitytattoocollective

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Focus on Fostering

Amicus Foster Care Amicus Foster Care is an “Ofsted outstanding” independent fostering agency.

We support children and young people who are in the care of the local authorities, many of whom have complex needs because of trauma in their young lives.

We are a small, friendly, and responsive organisation with a strong therapeutic focus to support foster carers in their fostering role, and also the children and young people themselves.

When you foster for Amicus, you receive high-quality training to enable you to carry out your role, a dedicated

supervising social worker, and 24/7 support from staff.

We believe that activities are important and aim to create a sense of community. We have an in-house youth service with highly-trained staff to support children and young people with differing needs.

The youth service has supported our fostering families with various activities over the last year, and also worked with children and young people on a one-to-one basis to build self-esteem and independence skills.

Our Founder and Director Nas Ahmed said: “I wanted to create a fostering agency that was meaningful with services that reached right to the heart of children and young people.

Founder and Director, Nas Ahmed

"My fundamental beliefs have never changed.

Every child should have the right to experience a family setting."

Fostering is a vocation, and Amicus Foster Carers go the extra mile.

To foster for us you would need to have a spare bedroom and be over 21 years of age. The assessment process is in-depth, and can take between 4-8 months to complete.

If you have the passion, dedication, and energy to

want to make a difference to a child’s life with excellent support from high trained staff, then we would like to hear from you. For more information visit www.amicusfostercare.com or call 0117 955 5039.

Foster with Swindon Borough Council and change a child's life In the UK, a child in need of a safe home comes into care every 20 minutes, and in Swindon alone, there has consistently been between 305 to 310 children and young people in the care of the council over the last 18 months.

Foster carers play a vitally important role in the lives of these vulnerable young people in Swindon, providing the support and guidance they need at a critical point in their lives.

Sadly, however, the number of foster carers available to support these children is reducing and more placements are urgently needed.

Eddie and Eileen are two foster carers in Swindon who have been fostering for over 10 years. They said: “We are passionate about fostering.

"We believe children or young people are vulnerable and deserve safe and secure environments so they can grow and develop. We like to see our young people strive and learn new skills.

"Sometimes they come from backgrounds where they are anxious or worried and by 14

giving them the opportunity to rest and know they have somebody looking out for them and advocating for them, you can see the difference within months.

“Fostering is about being together, celebrating the successes and being there for children when times are tough.

"Fostering a child isn’t always easy, but the rewards of seeing a child grow, develop and smile is what makes it worth it for many of our carers. You’ll receive extensive training and be supported by a team and other foster carers in Swindon.

"If you think you could change the life of a child in Swindon, visit our website: www.swindon.gov.uk/fostering to find out more, or get in touch with our friendly team: fosteringrecruitment@swindon. gov.uk"

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New College higher education students celebrate graduation

By Jessica Durston jessica@positive-media.co.uk

Many congratulations were in order as Swindon's New College hosted graduation ceremonies for over 130 of its Higher Education students at the Queens Drive Campus.

The classes of 2020 and 2021 and their families had the opportunity to attend one of four ceremonies in person and have their achievements recognised.

Students graduated from a wide range of degree, foundation degree and Higher National Certificate and Diploma programmes offered by the College and partner universities such as the University of Gloucestershire, Oxford Brookes University and Bath Spa University.

Subjects included Education, Health and Social Care, Graphic Design, Engineering, Business, Computing, Performing Arts and Public Services.

Lori-Ann MacFarlane graduated with a BA (Hons) Education and Lifelong Learning

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degree and is now completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Qualified Teacher Status at Coventry University, whilst employed in a school.

She said: “I feel incredibly proud as I never thought this would happen. I am the first person to graduate in my family. My advice to others considering HE would be to enjoy every minute of your degree; don’t be afraid to ask for advice and just go for it!”

A spokesperson for New College said: "The challenges of the pandemic have made both study and graduating even more of an accomplishment for

these cohorts of students and they have shown great resilience, commitment and perseverance in striving to reach their goals."

Ricardo Castro graduated with a Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care and is employed as an Assistant Practitioner working in operating theatres at GWH. He said: “I have truly enjoyed my journey with fantastic support from my tutors and fellow students and the very programme itself. I am incredibly proud of what I have achieved. It has transformed me and opened up new future opportunities.”

Katarzyna Szafraniec graduated with a HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Construction) and is employed as a Project Manager for a housing association.

She said: “I had wanted to complete this course for years and get more experience in the construction industry and progress in my career as a surveyor. The experience of studying and meeting new people motivates you in other areas of your life.”

Carole Kitching, Principal and CEO of New College Swindon, added: “We are absolutely honoured and delighted to help celebrate the success of our Higher Education graduates, who have achieved so well despite the difficult circumstances. This is a special occasion for them and their families as they graduate. We have no doubt that they will go on to experience exciting and fulfilling careers. We wish them every future success in their careers.”

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The Business Brief

Former Honda worker found a new leash on life after deciding to start her own business A lifelong dog lover has used her redundancy from Honda as a springboard to her dream career.

Karen Webb had always dreamed of running her own dog grooming salon, and decided that her departure from Honda was the perfect cue to launch her new business.

In February 2019 Honda confirmed the closure of its Swindon plant, and although Karen, 46, was initially shocked she immediately began making plans for The Mutts Cuts Grooming Salon.

She enrolled in college at weekends to become qualified and volunteered at a local dog groomer's around her Honda shifts.

Karen said: "I was shocked and quite sad really when I heard the news about Honda.

But I saw it as a new beginning and the chance to set up my own business.

Karen Webb with another happy client

“I just love dogs, and being a dog owner myself, it’s the perfect career for me.

“I could have saved my redundancy money or spent it on something like holidays or a car, but I wanted to invest it for our future.”

Karen’s new business meant husband Justin's 'man cave' had to be sacrificed but he was

completely supportive.

She said: "Justin understands my passion for dogs and saw the investment potential in the business."

The Mutts Cuts Grooming Salon in Haydon Wick is now officially open and bookings are flooding in. Karen puts her popularity down to the fact that she treats her furry

clientele as she would want her own dog, Dudley, treated.

“My Dudley is my fur baby, so I understand what it means to be a dog owner,” said Karen. “Dogs are part of the family, so I will always treat my clients as I would treat my own dog.

“I believe this means I provide a superior service.

“I’m extremely pleased with how it has started. I can see the business growing but no matter how busy we get, I will always provide the same caring, patient, quality and friendly service.”

The salon offers services such as full groom, nail clip, bath, de-shed and blow dry, and all equipment is thoroughly sterilised between uses.

The Mutts Cuts Grooming Salon website is themuttscutsgroomingsalon. co.uk and its Facebook page is @themuttscutsgroomingsalon

New Head of Conveyancing at leading Wiltshire law firm Awdry Bailey & Douglas has wealth of property law expertise Law firm Awdry Bailey & Douglas has appointed Yasmine Machin as its new Head of Conveyancing.

The Wiltshire company says it prides itself on personal development and acknowledging success, and that this is clearly demonstrated in the appointment of Yasmine, who has worked for ABD since August 2020.

Yasmine is a highly experienced Licensed Conveyancer, having qualified in 2013 and worked at Gloucester Land Registry for ten years immediately prior to qualification.

She also has a Masters in Law from the College of Law and a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of property law.

One of her key strengths, the firm says, lies in being able to spot potential issues and deal

Yasmine Machin is described by her firm as a highly experienced Licensed Conveyancer

with them before they become problems that would delay a transaction.

Alistair Everett, Managing Partner at Awdry Bailey and Douglas, said: “We interviewed excellent candidates for this position, but since joining us Yasmine has clearly demonstrated that she

always places clients’ needs at the heart of everything she does, whilst also being a keen leader, and as such, is a perfect fit for this role.

"Not only is Yasmine now the Head of Conveyancing, but she is also part of the Management team and we are already benefiting from her extensive

knowledge and expertise. We are delighted to be able to promote from within the firm for this role.

"Acknowledging success and personal development aren’t just buzzwords to us, they are key values that provide the foundation for our future success.”

Yasmine said: “This is a very exciting time to be leading such a very talented team of experienced conveyancers.

When joining the firm in August 2020, it was abundantly clear that the whole team are passionate about providing a truly personal service.

"That’s something I am proud to be a part of and I look forward to working alongside everyone to continue to deliver a high quality service, that truly makes a difference to people's lives.” swindonlink.com n January 2022

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The Politics Page

Covid precautions, vaccines and entering the New Year safely...

Swindon Council Leader David Renard's monthly column

As a council, 2021was another challenging year as we continued to support residents through the pandemic while delivering the services that people rely on.

My thoughts in particular over the festive season will be with those who have lost loved ones to covid-19. It is a stark reminder of how we all need to follow the public health guidance and keep each other and our family members safe.

The Omicron variant is rapidly spreading across the country so it is important that over the coming weeks and months

Consultation on the council’s budget and council tax Setting for 2022 & 2023

Swindon Borough Council’s annual budget consultation event will be held on Thursday, 6 January at 10am via Microsoft

we do all we can to protect ourselves and others from covid-19. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our NHS colleagues and the fantastic vaccine volunteers.

If you are planning to meet friends please take a Lateral Flow Test (LFT) before you leave home and get a confirmatory PCR test if you get a positive result. If you come into contact with someone who tests positive for covid-19, you should also take daily LFTs for seven days and self-isolate if you get a positive result. If you display any covid-19 symptoms, you should get a PCR test as soon as possible and self-isolate until

you have a negative result. If that result is positive, you will need to self-isolate for 10 days.

Masks are also required in most indoor settings, unless you’re exempt or when eating or drinking.

You may need an NHS covid pass to attend certain large gatherings. You should download the NHS app and log in to get yours if you are fully vaccinated. You can also get the pass with proof of a negative LFT, which can be gained on the app. Alternatively, you can contact your GP. Vaccines remain the best form of protection. Those aged 18 and over, with a second vaccine

Teams. This meeting with senior council members and officers will discuss the council’s budget proposals for 2022 & 2023 and is an opportunity to inform the council of the business community’s views before it makes important decisions regarding its Budget.

Under Section 65 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, the council has a duty to consult with representatives of non-domestic ratepayers about its proposals for expenditure.

In particular, the council must seek views about its proposed budget and council tax Levels

dose over three months ago, can now book booster vaccines via the NHS website or by calling 119.

As we head into the new year, it is always a good time to set some goals and with covid-19 still very much with us, I am sure keeping ourselves fit and healthy will be a top priority for 2022.

In the new year the council will be launching the free Active Swindon Challenge app, through the App Store or Google Play, to help give local people that little bit of extra motivation to get active while also doing their bit to help the environment. for the forthcoming year (2022 & 2023).

To attend, email committeeservices@swindon. gov.uk and you will be provided with a Teams meeting invitation, the agenda and relevant background papers for the meeting.

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2022

on. vided ation,

Established in 1977, Eastrop Infant School was full from the day of opening and has served generations of children ever since.

With strong links to Southfield Junior School, we work closely to ensure that our children’s transition is smooth, right from nursery, through infants and onto juniors. We are also linked to St. Michael’s Church and the wider community.

Our children leave our school with confidence, values and an understanding of the wider world in which we live. Our school offers wrap around care for children aged 2-11, with our Early Birds Breakfast Club starting at 7.45am and our Shooting Stars After School Club available until 6.00pm daily.

Our children enjoy a wide range of games and activities together with healthy snacks and drinks. Both clubs are operated by our own staff members, ensuring the highest levels of care for our children.

The teachers go above and beyond and are amazing at what they do.

The behaviours and values are adhered to by the children and they have a positive feeling and attitude towards the school.”

01793 763772

admin@eastrop-inf.swindon.sch.uk www.eastropinfantschool.org.uk

e

Southfield Junior School is a 2-form entry junior academy for children aged between 7 and 11. We work closely with Eastrop Infant School to provide a seamless transition for our children, from Nursery through to aged 11, including breakfast and after school clubs.

The vast majority of our Year 6 children move onto Highworth Warneford School and we support this with transition days, helping to ensure that children leave our school with confidence, values and an understanding of the wider world in which we live.

We are delighted that our partnership with Eastrop Infant School enables us to offer wrap around care for children aged 2-11, with our Early Birds Breakfast Club starting at 7.45am and our Shooting Stars After School Club available until 6.00pm daily.

Thanks for all you do to make the school a safe and fun learning environment for our children!

We will miss it when our child moves on to High School later this year.”

01793 762210

admin@southfield-jun.swindon.sch.uk www.southfieldjuniorsch.co.uk

Eastrop Infant and Southfield Junior Schools are the founding members of Grove Learning Trust.

Together, we have formed a special partnership in which we make the best use of our resources so that the children receive an excellent and seamless education throughout their primary years.

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LINK

FEATURES

Words by Barrie Hudson

Shedding a wonderful Christmas light on Town Gardens The Enchanted Gardens Light Trail in Swindon's Town Gardens delighted visitors throughout December.

The array of lights which turned the park into a multicoloured wonderland were in place throughout the month.

The trail was organised by South Swindon Parish Council, and supported Brighter Futures, the Great Western Hospital charity.

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LINK PETS

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LINK CYCLING

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Finding poems you know you'll love

stanza of a poem I really enjoy, “Time on Earth” and appropriate as we look up at the amazing carpet of stars on dark evenings:

Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon

Poet David Cooke

I’ve been following and recommending www. thehighwindowpress.com for some time. The editor, David Cooke, is based in Swindon and his parents come from the West of Ireland. Now that’s a good pedigree!

Add to that, he’s a cracking poet, translator and reviewer.

His regular emails have introduced me to new poets, including many in translation which, in my view, adds a dimension, a twist and a

surprise to the way we see poetry. If you’re looking for a New Year treat for yourself or anyone who likes poetry, look no further than adding your email to David’s list.

I love this first stanza from David’s poem “Shadow Boxing.”

The closest my dad ever got to poetry was when he savoured some word like pugilist, or the tip-toe springiness

LINK POETRY

he sensed in bob and weave, his unalloyed delight in the flytings and eyeball to eyeball hype that went with big fight weigh-ins.

Introduce me to a poet and if I like the work I’m hooked.

In the Winter Edition of High Windows, I enjoyed an interview with the American poet, Tess Taylor, and that sent me off reading her work again. Here’s the first

Nights under these stars, you try to identify old constellations.

Cassiopeia, Andromeda, the mythic forms— you half forget their stories.

But on warm nights, seeing them, your throat also fills with shapes of hymns someone’s holdfast tunes to which your words are also blurred or blurring.

For a good night out, tickets are available now for Henry Normal at The Pound Arts Centre, Corsham, 24-28 February. www.mauricespillane.com

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LINK PETS & NATURE A column by Thameswood Vets

Helping your pet to stay fit and trim

options including: · Accurately weighing out their current food · Changing to a ‘light’ diet · Changing to a specific weight control diet Exercise is an easy way to aid your pet’s weight loss but you need to ensure that you gradually increase their exercise over a time period. Ways to increase exercise can include: · Extending your morning or evening walk by five minutes, increasing this over time · Get your pet to work for their dinner using feeding cubes or games · Try different activities such as agility or hydrotherapy

No one wants to eat celery and our dogs don't have to either.

Many factors can affect our pets' weight, including our love for them and the pleasure we get from giving them a tasty treat.

But did you know over 83 percent of people don't weigh their pet’s food allowance?

Simple yet effective changes can fit perfectly in to a busy lifestyle to help keep our pets in great condition.

So what can we do to help pets have a healthier and more active life?

Choosing the right diet for your pet is the best starting place.

There are many different

· If walking is difficult or time restricted, look at booking a dog walker or pet crèche How to monitor and track progress?

We always recommend coming to see our trained nurses for advice before any lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. At this point your nurse will be able to accurately measure areas such as the waist and chest and provide

Let’s Ride Swindon: Free local guided bike rides Cycling column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign

As we welcome 2022, I thought that it was a good chance to review the past year of British Cycling’s free Guided Ride Programme in Swindon.

Let’s Ride is a national programme of fun, free and friendly led bike rides supported by Swindon Borough Council, British Cycling and HSBC. As one of the volunteer ride leaders, I have been leading a series of easy-going and steady rides throughout the year, along with my small co-pilot (two-year old son).

These have been designed as confidence-building and social rides where no special equipment is needed, or lycra required.

Some of the most popular rides in the summer saw 19 of us set off for an exploration of Swindon’s cycle paths.

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Since lockdown restrictions eased in April 2021, the local team of volunteer ride leaders has put on a total of 57 rides covering over 600 miles and resulting in 356 participations.

We’ve put on 20 ‘Easy Going’ Rides (traffic-free, short, social rides), 31 ‘Steady’ or ‘Steady Plus’ rides (largely traffic-free and using quiet roads) and three Challenging rides. The average distance of the rides was 8.5 miles.

We always receive great feedback at the end of a ride, making all the effort behind the scenes feel truly worthwhile.

It's also been fantastic to see how many people have rediscovered the joys of cycling by trying an electric bike.

On my most recent ride, the four e-bikers outnumbered those on ‘standard’ bicycles!

Electric bikes and their riders are welcome on all our rides.

We’ve seen an e-bike

a ‘body condition score’.

This gives you something to compare to during your pet’s journey. From there fortnightly or monthly weigh-ins will help you see your progress.

How to start?

Firstly, don't worry, you are not alone!

Secondly contact your closest clinic to book in for your pet’s free Belly Buster clinic.

During January we have no joining fee, and at your pet’s initial visit our specially trained nurses will create a bespoke six-month plan for your pet based on your current lifestyle and their fitness levels. thameswoodvets.co.uk

LINK

rider who started on easygoing rides progress to long challenging rides and sign up to become a ride leader herself in 2022.

I was particularly over the moon to hear of a romance that has developed between a couple who first met on one of my summer rides from Town Gardens to Lydiard Park.

It was both riders’ first time with me on a ride. They are now a happy couple and recently went on their first holiday together.

So, if you’d like to cycle more but don’t know where to start then the Let’s Ride Guided Ride Programme could be for you. All you have to do is bring your bike and pedal.

We do the rest. It's easy, free, and it's a fantastic day out for the whole family, with friends, or just on your own.

You'll meet new people, improve your fitness and get more confident on your bike.

CYCLING Enjoy trouble free cycling this Winter at E-Motion

E-motion Electric Vehicle Company do not just sell electric bikes - they look after them too. Individuals can book their bike in for a service at the new workshop in January, and enjoy trouble-free cycling this winter.

The E-motion team say they will also give the bikes a clean for free!

The team work on all makes, electric and standard. Tyres, helmets, lights, high-vis jackets, baskets, cleaning products and more are in stock to keep people safe on their travels. Those who cannot get to e-motion can arrange a bike collection and return, when the work is complete.

The New Year Sale starts on 4 January. www.e-motionevc.co.uk

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TRADE PAGES

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n PLUMBING AND HEATING

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

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates

10 YEAR GUARANTEE (subject to survey)

on Worcester Bosch Ri Si and Cdi boilers

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Accredited Installer

For further details call Richard on 01793 870472 or 07747 723606

203455

Haydon Wick Heating Services

All heating and plumbing works undertaken • Full central heating systems • Boiler changes / services and repairs • Power flushing • Full bathroom / ensuite installations • General plumbing works • Free quotes and realistic prices

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

E

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Semi-retired Plumber

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SURESTOP SWITCH

F • • • • •

installed for hard to get at or seized stop cock

• Disabled extra high toilets fitted • Tap washers & ball valves • Toilet cistern repairs

F M w 0 E

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Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

Quality Plumbing & Heating Est. 30+ years

• • • • • •

Central heating installation Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Bathrooms & tiling Power showers Reg: 128966 Outside taps All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Kevin Rolfe

Mobile: 07973 663367 www.swindonheating.co.uk 26

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TRADE PAGES

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n ELECTRICAL

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part P Registered Part P Registered

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

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and Complete Rewires • • Complete Rewires No job too small!

• • No job too small!

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

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Swindon Aerial Services

Est 2002

For all your computing needs • Hardware & Software Installs & Upgrades • Repairs • Maintenance • PC Security • Home or Business Networking • Wireless Setup • On Site Service, Home or Business For a dedicated local service with a Microsoft Certified Professional, with over 25 years experience, call 01793 320 439 or 07799 337 918 E: info@compucareuk.com www.compucareuk.com

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Established since 1961

• • • • • •

Free Quotes Reception Issues Resolved Digital TV Aerials Sky, Freesat & Freeview TV Wall Mounting Additional Points

10% off

New Aerial Installations Tel: 01793 531400 • 07703 292850 www.swindonaerials.com swindonaerialservices@yahoo.co.uk

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n FOR THE HOME

TRADE PAGES

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DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

Tel: 01793 827248 Mob: 07976 885203

PR

ID

eco &D

ter

EP

ain

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

rat

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

For free quotation call Paul on

01793 321981 07775 840236

or

FREE ESTIMATES

• High class painting and decorating •30 years experience •Competitive rates •Interior & exterior •References available •Reliable friendly service, all work undertaken

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

Building/Groundworks & Hard Landscaping Extensions, Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Patios All building work undertaken All work guaranteed, FREE quote and advice Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597 www.haynesconstruction.org.uk

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

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

andysweeney1@virginmedia.com

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

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

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

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TRADE PAGES

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n OUTSIDE THE HOME

FREETH FENCING & GARDEN SERVICES LTD Est. 1990 35 Spencer Close, West Swindon

J’s Electrical

❖ Fences, gates & sheds supplied and erected ❖ Landscaping ❖ Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed ❖ Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied ❖ Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden maintenance

✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing ✭ 24 hours

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07434 588731 Tel: 01793 278612

Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940 247152

www.freethfencingandgardenservicesltd.com

www.jelectricalswindon.co.uk junab74@outlook.com

• 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

Fencing, Patios & Landscaping Reliable Local Company Established 2003

Our professional staff have many years’ experience in all aspects of landscaping and garden work, both installation and repairs including: Sheds, Fencing, Gates, Decking, Patios, Artificial Lawns.

Contact us for a quote:

01793 877677 www.enlan.co.uk

WHITE VAN MAN

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MAKE UP FLAT PACK FURNITURE

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

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TRADE PAGES

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n OUTSIDE THE HOME n CLEANING

Your Local Locksmith for all your Locksmith needs

01793 677040 07464 244728

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

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

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