North West Swindon Link July 2021 edition

No 469 July 2021 GPS-tracked, door to door delivery to over 40,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 100,000

Swindon

LINK Your Community Magazine

North & West Edition

Remembering Dave Young the heart of Swindon's music scene p7

swindonlink.com

Anne-Marie and Dizzee Rascal head up Live At Lydiard p22

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Catalyst of success at Nova Hreod for stars of science and more Year 5 pupils in Swindon who aspire to be scientists, mathematicians, designers and engineers are invited to apply for a new specialist stream at Nova Hreod Academy.

They are promised a keen focus on their areas of interest.

Pupils starting secondary school in September 2022 are can now apply to join the Catalyst STEM Stream.

Particularly suitable for talented young people with a keen interest in the STEM subjects, Catalyst will allow them to benefit from a more in-depth and fast paced STEM curriculum.

They will have opportunities to work with local employers and universities, accessing support in achieving their aspirations.

The supporting extracurricular programme will further develop their interests in line with Nova’s values of Drive, Integrity, Scholarship

and Contribution, whilst also offering opportunities for them to engage in wider school activities, clubs and teams.

Catalyst will open to pupils starting Year 7 in September 2022, with 30 places being available in its first year.

In order to apply for Catalyst, pupils must accept a place at Nova Hreod Academy and then complete

an assessment and interview process.

An introduction evening for Year 5 parents will he held on Thursday, 1 July.

Taster sessions for Year 5 pupils will be held on 10 July, 25 September and 4 December.

Further information about Catalyst, along with registration details for the introduction and taster

evening, can be found at www.novahreodacademy.org. uk/catalyst-stream

Looking forward to a summer of fun We're all getting a bit impatient now.

Just when we thought we would finally be able to enjoy a bit of lockdown-free life, along comes the pesky Delta variant to tell us otherwise.

With this delay until 19 July for restrictions to finally end, we now have to face the reality of not only missing out in June but July too.

The untold damage this extension will be doing to certain businesses from hospitality to event organisers doesn't

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson Reporter: Jessica Durston

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

Calyx

bear thinking about.

But Swindon is nothing but resilient and I know we'll do all we can to support all of those affected businesses during this difficult time.

And we also have a plethora of events to look forward to which will really make the town buzz during August.

These include Swindon and Wiltshire Pride which takes place on Saturday 7 August in Old Town Gardens. The annual event, which obviously didn't take

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place in 2020, is always one of the best parties of the year.

Then there's Live at Lydiard which takes place on Saturday 21 August. This is definitely the most anticipated event to hit Lydiard Park since Radio One's Big Weekend back in 2009 and it even has Dizzee Rascal along with Anne-Marie.

See our feature on page 22.

Jamie Hill Group Editor

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Coronavirus news

Covid-19 vaccines are highly effective against the Delta variant Swindon's director of public health Steve Maddern has released a statement urging Swindonians to get the jab and saying that it is highly effective against the delta variant.

The Prime Minister announced on Monday 14 June – based on the latest review of the evidence – that further easing would be delayed of covid-19 lockdown restrictions (Step 4) in England until 19 July.

The Government’s decision was based on four tests: - The vaccine deployment programme continues successfully - Evidence shows vaccines are sufficiently effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths in those vaccinated - Infection rates do not risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS - Its assessment of the risks is

not fundamentally changed by new variants of COVID-19 Mr Maddern said: "New research suggests that the Delta variant is associated with an increased risk of household transmission compared to the Alpha variant, first identified in Kent.

"With the Delta variant now accounting for the

overwhelming majority of new cases in the UK, Public Health England comment that 'it is encouraging to see that the increase in cases is not yet accompanied by a similarly large increase in hospitalisations.'

"Two doses of the covid-19 vaccines are highly effective against the Delta variant.

"Once vaccinated, you are

unlikely to get serious covid-19, be admitted to hospital, or to die from it.

"There is growing evidence that vaccinated people are less likely to pass the virus to others.

"It’s up to all of us not to jeopardise the gains we’ve made. Please keep following the guidance and playing your part."

Region's vaccination total passes a million More than a million doses of the coronavirus vaccine have been given out to people across Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and North East Somerset.

As of Tuesday, 8 June, the number stood at 1,020,056, meaning around 71 per cent of the eligible population have received at least one dose.

Local health and care leaders have welcomed the milestone, but have also used the news to encourage people to book their first coronavirus vaccine and, wherever necessary, to also come 4

forward for their second dose.

Vaccines are now available to all people over the age of 18, and are being given out at more than two dozen locations across the region, including the Great Western Hospital in Swindon, all of which are listed by the National Booking Service.

All people eligible for the vaccine should use the National Booking Service, which is available over the phone by calling 119 or online at www.nhs.uk, to secure their appointments, and not wait to be contacted by their GP

practice.

Gill May, Director of Nursing and Quality, said: “To provide more than one million vaccines in the space of just six months is quite unbelievable, and I’d like to thank all those involved for making today’s announcement possible.

“However, coronavirus is still very much with us and the news of rising cases in some parts of the country shows there is a very real need for all people, especially those in the younger age groups, particularly people aged between 30 and 39, to come

forward to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

“All our vaccination sites are now listed on the National Booking Service, meaning people have the freedom to be vaccinated in a location convenient to them, such as at a site that is close to home or place of work or education.

“We have all come so far in our fight against coronavirus and, with the finishing line hopefully now in sight, this final push to get everybody vaccinated has never been more important.” www.nhs.uk

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Town centre murals a vital reminder of beauty and hope amid tough times Two colourful murals have been created in the centre of Swindon.

One, at the front of the former Debenhams store, is the work of a group of young local artists and is intended to offer a muchneeded message about the importance of hope.

The other, covering the entrance of the former Morrisons supermarket at the Regent Circus Develoopment, celebrates nature.

It is the work of artists Martin Travers and Lionel Stanhope and was commissioned by the development's marketing agency.

Funding for the project near the former Debenhams came from Wiltshire Community Foundation, and the mural was created by young people aged 10-15 from across Swindon with the support of local charities Artsite Community Arts and the Mechanics’ Institution Trust, who joined forces to deliver creative and therapeutic activities during the pandemic.

Casey Hillier, one of the youth workers involved in the project, said: “It’s been brilliant to see the young people have the space and time to reflect on everything that’s happened over the past year - on everything that’s important to them and the wider community and the things they want to see happen for our collective future.

"As well as reflecting on the pandemic, they’ve also talked a lot about equality and the environment, which of course are all related.”

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A detail from the Regent Circus mural

Amelie Solomon, one of the young people involved, said: “Hope is a powerful feeling, it can help take your mind off any difficult situations you may be facing, whilst still not ignoring them altogether.

"It can help bring communities together, as it is a mutual emotion, felt by many, especially in the times of the pandemic.”

Project co-ordinator Hannah Parry said: “It’s been an amazing joint effort and experience. The young people and their ideas have been such an inspiration to the workers involved and to so many people who have enjoyed their artwork.

"Young people have the most amazing minds and ideas and there’s so much we, as adults, can learn from them. Young people are our future and they give us hope!”

Thanks to the support of inSwindon and The Parade management companies, the mural found its home to the front of the former landmark Debenhams store, which closed down recently.

Some of the young creators of the mural near the former Debenhams

A songbird is another of the creatures portrayed in the Regent Circus mural

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A tribute to Dave Young - the true heart of the Swindon music scene

By Jamie Hill, editor of arts & culture magazine The Ocelot This is a very difficult piece to write.

The death of Dave Young, the former owner of The Vic and 12 Bar, was announced in early June after a long struggle with cancer.

Dave meant so many things to so many people.

For me, he was a friend and an ally. And today, I feel his loss as though everything will be out of kilter for a very long time.

To describe him as larger than life is an accurate description. His humour, his passion, and his presence was felt by everyone who met him.

In the early days of The Ocelot, he became our biggest supporter, not only on a commercial basis, but on a more personal basis, constantly offering us advice and support.

There were many a time I would be stood next to Dave in the sound booth watching

a band. He was a man who would hug and welcome the world if he could.

It was his passion that always shone through. He loved music and he put all of his energy into the music scene, making The Vic and the 12 Bar into beacons of hope for any aspiring musicians in the area.

The music scene will feel his loss the most keenly but he also touched so many other people’s lives with his humour. As a pub landlord you couldn’t find anyone more welcoming. Alongside his wife Anna, he would always make you feel part of the family when you went into one of their establishments. Wacky Wednesdays at The Vic were a diary mainstay for many in the town with Dave being at the raucous heart of every evening.

We worked very closely with Dave with our Ocelot Comedy Nights, which ran for years, firstly at 12 Bar and then at The Vic. As a collaborater

on different projects, he was always calm, collected and wise and was able to always get to the nub of any problem that was put before us.

There are many musicians and promoters who owe Dave a debt of gratitude, from The Swindon Shuffle to Sheer Music and Gaz Brookfield. He was their champion. Always there as a solid rock to lean on when needed.

He was also a talented musician in his own right.

Always injecting his professionalism and sense of fun into everything he did from The Boys from County Hell to

The Chaos Brothers.

In his latter years after giving up The Vic and 12 Bar, Dave was involved in several festivals and he also raised a truckload of cash for Brighter Futures to give back to all of those who had helped him through his cancer.

There will be many people in Swindon who will be shedding tears for Dave at the moment and our hearts go out to Anna and all of his family. Dave Young was a man who left a legacy in Swindon where he truly left a mark.

You will be missed. And you will be remembered.

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Companions sought for helpful new company supporting the elderly New business Helping Old Friends has over 25 years of experience, and recognises that there is a necessity for a service that provides, more than anything, companionship to people who for whatever reason find themselves living alone and isolated.

Managing Director Ben Curtis said: "Sometimes you need to have a person just to talk to, someone to replace that lightbulb, to help navigate around the internet to fill in a form, mow the lawn or find a handyman to do the job that has been left undone for ages.

"That is where Helping Old Friends comes in. We can set up regular visits to suit your requirements with well matched companions who will listen, help do the odd jobs or just be there for you."

The firm, which doesn't provide any Personal Care or assist with administering medication, is now looking for 'companions' to join the

Surge in demand for tots swimming lessons The Puddle Ducks Swimming school is welcoming customers back to its sessions following the easing of lockdown.

The school offers specialised lessons for babies and children, and locations include The Wiltshire Hotel in Royal Wootton Bassett and Lechlade Pool.

Puddle Ducks teaches children from birth to 10 years to swim independently and confidently. puddleducks.com

Thamesdown Drive resurfacing team. Mr Curtis added: "We are looking for caring and compassionate people with a wealth of life experiences and skills to join us in providing in home services for our customers.

"It is less about age and more about finding the right people who are mature, compassionate, with a caring nature who can relate to the ageing process. You may be semi-retired or retired and looking for a rewarding way to help others while still earning a wage or just looking for a change of career." helpingoldfriends.co.uk

From Monday, 21 June sections of Thamesdown Drive were due to be resurfaced.

The work will take 6-7 weeks to complete and will take place at the following locations: - The Orbital Shopping Park / Eastbury Way junction - Link between Redhouse Way and Eastbury Way eastbound only - Redhouse Way / Torun Way junction - Oakhurst Way / Thursday Street junction - Haydon Brook Bridge northbound only

Daytime closures will be in place, except at The Orbital junction, Oakhurst Way / Thursday St junction and Haydon Brook Bridge which will be closed overnight to minimise disruption to shoppers and local residents.

Access will be maintained for local residents and diversion routes and signage will be in place during the work. Advance notice boards have been put up in affected areas.

The work is dependent on the weather. Residents and motorists are advised to check the advanced notification boards for up-to-date info.

Company aims to build up to 3,000 new homes near Haydon Wick A building firm aims to put up to 3,000 new homes slightly west of Haydon Wick.

Glasgow-based Mactaggart and Mickel has written to all Swindon Borough Councillors about the Swindon Local Plan Review to 2036.

The firm says in its letter: "We are a family-owned house builder with over 90 years’ experience in building homes currently promoting land for up to 3000 homes at Pry Farm (just west of Haydon Wick), in both the Wiltshire and Swindon Local Plan Reviews.

"Of the 3000 homes being promoted, approximately 350 could be on land owned by your council, recognised in your draft 2010 Regional Spatial Strategy; the balance of new homes would be on land in Wiltshire Council’s Purton Division.

"Your draft Local Plan Review sets out where 20,450 homes could be built in the 8

borough up to 2036; we believe 350 new homes within the borough at Pry Farm could make a significant and positive contribution to helping councillors achieve this target."

In further support of its proposal, the firm notes: "We would build a full range of community facilities as part of Pry Farm.

"This could include a primary school and other facilities, which would help take pressure off the surrounding area.

"We would comply with your council’s open space requirements to make the area as green as possible.

"The proposal would include a good amount of landscaped open space helping to achieve

biodiversity net gain and being a very attractive place for people to live."

The company also points our that Pry Farm is very accessible with good links into Haydon Wick and Swindon, and says road improvements would be carried out to allow essential new primary road access routes off Thamesdown Drive.

All residents, the company says, would be able to link into and access existing and new sustainable transport links.

Turning to the implications for various amenities in the area, the letter adds: "Pry Farm’s ideal location just west of Haydon Wick means new homes could sustainably integrate into the established community which has good accessibility to existing local services and amenities in and around Haydon Wick, and further east towards the town centre."

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Swindon in top 10 most 'zen' places

A vitamin and health food firm rates Swindon among the nation's most 'zen' communities.

Supplement Place used Office for National Statistics data to assess 50 of the UK's most populated towns and cities for quality of life factors such as happiness, life satisfaction and anxiety.

Swindon was sixth while first place went to seaside resort Bournemouth.

Canal Trust visitor centre reopens

The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust's Visitor Centre in Swindon's Regent Street has reopened after an 18-month absence.

The centre had to close due to a fall-off in the number of volunteers, but was able to open its doors once more thanks to the recruitment of a manager, Peter Stroud, and a number of new additions to the team, all volunteers.

A small group of volunteers worked on preparations inside, installing new shelving and equipment, cleaning and tidying it up.

New manager Mr Stroud said: "I am amazed and pleased at the response and determination from all to get the visitor centre up and running in such a short time."

Air tattoo marks its 50th birthday The Royal International Air Tattoo celebrated its 50th birthday at a Battle of Britain airfield in Essex.

Today RAF Fairford is home to the air tattoo, which will next be held from July 15-17, 2022, but North Weald was its first home when it was established in 1971.

To mark the occasion a Jodel D140C Mousquetaire aircraft which took part in the inaugural airshow returned, and other celebrations included the cutting of a ceremonial cake.

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Louis the horse was just what the doctor ordered Staff and residents at White Lodge care home in Braydon were delighted to receive a special visitor.

Amy Vincent was equally delighted to introduce her gentle horse, Louis, to residents.

Louis stands at just over 15 hands, and the residents enjoyed giving him his favourite treats of carrots and custard creams.

White Lodge General Manager Ramona Gherendi said: “It is absolutely wonderful to welcome visitors to the home again, and this includes therapy animals and their owners who we thank so much for giving up their time to visit care homes.

"Everyone enjoyed Louis visiting, he is welcome back any time! Due to our rural location, many of our residents were once farmers or were horse riders, so they were delighted to not only meet Louis, but also to reminisce about their own horses.”

Animal therapy builds on preexisting human-animal bonds.

The benefits are both physical and emotional and include reducing blood pressure and producing endorphins - and therefore a feeling of wellbeing - along with increasing social interaction.

White Lodge was also set to welcome back its Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog in late June.

Archie was a regular visitor prior to the lockdowns and residents were very much looking forward to his return.

New residents are being welcomed, and White Lodge can be contacted on 01666 860381 for information.

White Lodge is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK's largest providers.

MBE for Swindon man at age of just 25 A Swindon man has been made MBE at the age of only 25 in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

Clegg Bamber and two friends founded the Red Box Project in Portsmouth in March of 2017 to give young people in their area access to menstrual products and combat period poverty.

Mr Bamber was a student at the time.

The organisation has since expanded its projects throughout the UK and to locations as diverse as the USA, Poland, Moldova, the Republic of Ireland, Jersey and the Isle of Man. Mr Bamber, originally from Lancashire, has lived in Swindon for three years and is Futures Programme Manager at the Natural Environment Research Council.

He said: "There was a piece - I think it was on BBC News about a teacher who had come forward and said a young person had asked for period

products because they couldn't afford them and didn't have access to them otherwise.

"For us that was obviously a bit of a shock. For me personally, I had heard about period poverty being a thing but I had thought of it as more associated with the developing world and the wider aspects of poverty. I definitely didn't think we had that issue here in 21st century Britain, and yet, lo and behold, we did."

Red Box became a major national voice which in 2018 joined forces with like-minded organisation Free Periods and launched legal action against the Government.

In March of the following year the Government announced it would fund period products in secondary schools and colleges, but Red Box and Free Periods refused to stop lobbying until the scheme was extended to primary schools.

In January of 2020 the Department for Education announced its Period Product Scheme, allowing educational institutions to provide necessary items for all who needed them at no charge.

Mr Bamber was surprised to receive the letter informing him of his honour.

He recalled: "I was shocked at first and had to reread the letter several times to make sure it was genuinely me and there hadn't been some confusion!"

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Furniture store officially opened by Mayor of Swindon

Mayor of Swindon Garry Perkins cut a ribbon to officially open Sofology's store in the town.

Located at Unit 1, Wootton Bassett Road, the site is the nationwide chain's 49th.

Sofology regional head of retail Shaun Cook said: “It was great to see such a positive response from local shoppers at the Swindon store and we were delighted to have the Swindon Mayor, Councillor Garry Perkins, officially open the store.”

Air Ambulance volunteers wanted Wiltshire Air Ambulance is inviting potential volunteers to inquire about fundraising events, giving talks, helping with tin collections and other tasks.

Last year all such events were postponed due to the pandemic, meaning a drop of around £500,000 in fundraising income.

With restrictions beginning to lift, a brighter summer awaits with lots of events planned.

More information can be found at www. wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/ volunteer

Samaritans charity shop reopens

Swindon Samaritans have reopened their Curtis Street charity shop.

A charity spokeswoman said: "After a challenging year for everyone, it’s great to be able to throw open our front door again as our shop is crucial in helping to fund our free listening service to anyone who is struggling to cope."

More information can be found at www.samaritans. org/branches/swindon/shopvolunteers/ 12

New Swindon pub to be called Strawberry Thief Arkell’s Brewery celebrated breaking ground at the site of its new pub in Tadpole Garden Village in early June.

The historic Swindon company also announced that the new pub is to be called The Strawberry Thief.

Managing Director George Arkell was joined by Craig Morton of builders Edmont and North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson to mark the occasion.

Mr Tomlinson turned the first sod to officially start the work for Arkell’s new £4m pub, which is due to open in 2022.

The MP said: “Having represented this field for 21 years as both councillor and MP, I’m absolutely thrilled that I was able to put the spade in the ground to start the build of this fantastic new community facility.

"I have no doubt this new pub will be a huge success.”

Mr Arkell said: “We’re really excited to finally be starting

From left: Arkell's Managing Director George Arkell, North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and Edmont Ltd Managing Director Craig Morton

this project and it’s wonderful to have our MP along to formally commence the work.

"The Strawberry Thief is the biggest project we have undertaken in years.

"The Tadpole community have been really supportive and encouraging as it has taken a long time to actually start construction on site.”

Unveiling the name ‘The Strawberry Thief’, Mr Arkell explained that it was a nod to a William Morris textile design

from 1883, which features the thrushes Morris found stealing fruit in the kitchen garden of his countryside home, Kelmscott Manor in Oxfordshire.

The William Morris theme runs through Tadpole Garden Village, with street names and the school named after the famous British textile designer.

The pub has been designed

by Clark & Maslin an Architectural Practice based in Malmesbury, and Concorde BGW Group.

Swindon Borough Council doesn't rule out city status bid The Government has launched a competition to select the next crop of UK cities but Swindon has yet to throw its hat in the ring.

Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard is prepared to consider an application, but only if there is evidence that it would benefit the town.

The competition was launched to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next year - the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne.

In addition to the competition for local authorities to apply for towns to be awarded city status, existing cities can enter a parallel competition to have their civic leaders granted Lord Mayoralties or - in Scotland Lord Provostships.

In recent memory Swindon has made two applications for city status, one the late 1990s and the other in the early 2000s, neither of which were

successful.

Cllr Renard said: "The Conservative Council is always looking at ways that we can improve Swindon and deliver even greater success for our borough.

"If there were tangible evidence to suggest applying for and gaining city status would benefit Swindon, we would consider it.

"However, we do not want it to act as a distraction from the many positive investments and developments that we have and are securing to make Swindon an even better place to live, work and thrive.”

Minister of State for Constitution and Devolution Chloe Smith said: "The Civic Honours competition is an opportunity to promote your hometown and win an honour for it that will last for all time.

"I encourage entries from local authorities in every part of the UK, from vibrant towns

and cities with distinct identities, history and sense of community.

"The brilliance of the United Kingdom is rooted in diverse and unique communities brought together by a shared sense of civic pride, so I have no doubt the competition will be fierce - but success will be a historic moment of celebration for the winners, which will take its place within Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee."

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "As we look toward a year of celebration, growth and renewal in 2022, this prestigious competition will inspire civic pride right across the UK."

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Willows Counselling & Training launches new website Willows Counselling & Training has launched a new website.

The organisation is a leading provider of counselling services and counsellor training in Swindon. Based in Old Town, it was established over 30 years ago.

A registered charity, Willows has a governing board of Trustees. Michelle Howard, Chair of Trustees said: “We are passionate about helping and empowering people facing mental health and well-being concerns.”

As well as general counselling services, Willows specialises in abuse and trauma with its complexities.

Tanya Orr, Chief Executive Officer, said: “Trauma can be the result of ongoing subtle exposure, as well as a sudden impact. The cost of counselling can sometimes exclude those who want help. We encourage you to get in touch and talk to us about what you can

contribute.

"As we begin to ease out of lockdown, the impact of the pandemic on mental health has barely begun. People are worried about work, finances, relationships and more. In person or online, Willows offers a confidential opportunity for people to talk and find solutions that are right for them."

Recognised as a leading training agency, Willows runs accredited courses and trains people who want to become professional counsellors.

Contact Willows via the new website willowscounselling. org.uk, email willows@ willowscounselling.org.uk, call 01793 426650, or follow on social media.

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Brain injury survivor does her bit for vital charity which helped her Swindon woman Annabel Robson was just 18 years old and five weeks into her physics degree when she choked on a cough sweet and was deprived of oxygen for a quarter of an hour.

Left with what is termed an anoxic brain injury, she was in hospital for 11 months after the 2006 incident at the University of Surrey.

Annabel not only fought back but went on to achieve her degree in 2013, is married to Jonathan and has a five-yearold son, Alexander.

Her injury impaired her dexterity, so Annabel was glad of help she received from Dressability, a Swindon charity which alters clothes to make them easier for clients to put on and remove.

Annabel accepted an invitation from Dressability manager Sharon Tombs to come and do some admin work for the organisation.

Recalling her life-changing

Dressability manager Sharon Tombs, left, and Annabel Robson

accident in 2006, Annabel said: "My head of year was asked to write my obituary that's what I was told.

"I lost a lot of my memory.

I went back to New College, did my AS Level again, then went back to uni and did a foundation year. It was really hard but I got through it in the end."

Sharon Tombs said: "About five-and-a-half years ago I

went out to see Annabel. She'd recently had a baby and because Annabel has had a brain injury she was struggling with babygrow poppers and nursing bras.

"To have a new baby with a disability is quite a challenge, so we altered some babygrows and Annabel continued to be a customer intermittently over the next five years. Then, six months or so ago I was chatting

to Annabel and she was looking to get back into the workplace.

"So I invited her to come and join us to do admin, and it's a way of getting her back into work. She knows us, so it's quite a supportive environment.

"What is nice is that we were able to help her and now she's helping us."

Annabel said: "They were very innovative. I didn't know how to solve my problems because I didn't know there was a solution.

"I couldn't do the clips with one hand - I couldn't put the babygrow on. It was awkward.

The poppers took half an hour."

Annabel is glad to be working again, and her ambition is simple: "I hope to be helpful to someone."

Information about Dressability can be obtained via https:// www.dressability.org.uk/ and on 01793 512878.

Rainbow benches help combat loneliness Call for volunteers to help with charities' summer food collection.

Swindon & Wiltshire Pride have launched a vibrant new campaign with the help of town centre promoters inSwindon.

Its aim is to combat loneliness and encourage people to open up.

Loneliness affects a significant proportion of the population and can be debilitating.

The Rainbow Bench comes with a plaque that reads: "Sit here if you don't mind someone stopping to say hello."

Phoenix Stewart of Swindon and Wiltshire Pride said: “The Rainbow Bench Project is a place to catch up with a friend, start a conversation and help prevent loneliness.

"We don't talk to each other enough, so let's make time to stop and say hello, have a chat and make a new friend.”

According to a recent survey, a fifth of the UK's people say they are always or sometimes lonely, and the charity want to try to change that.

Phoenix said: “By launching the Rainbow Bench Project, our aim is to encourage the rest of the county to join us in our campaign, so a rainbow bench could become a recognised sign across our county.

"Thank you to Valspa paints for the donation of the paint, Andy Midwinter and inSwindon for their continued support in delivering the project."

The Rainbow Bench is next to the Town Hall at Regent Circus in the town centre.

Volunteers are needed in Swindon to help two charities support children and families this summer.

From 15-17 July, charities FareShare and the Trussell Trust will be collecting long-life food in Tesco’s large Swindon stores as part of a special drive to support children and families throughout the summer holidays.

Food donated by Tesco customers during the collection will go to support food banks in the Trussell Trust’s network and to local charities supplied

by FareShare, including holiday clubs providing healthy meals and activities to youngsters outside of term-time.

Tesco will once again top up customer donations made in store by 20 percent in cash to aid the two charities in their work.

Julian Mines, CEO at FareShare South West, said: “More people than ever are

struggling to put food on the table and will do for months if not years to come as the economy recovers.

"We have seen a huge increase in people turning to their local grassroots community groups for support and demand for food remains high.

“We would be incredibly grateful to anyone who is able to volunteer just two hours of their time this year to encourage more shoppers to donate much needed longlife food to those who need it most.”

Swindon volunteers are needed to encourage shoppers to leave their donations in the collection points at the front of stores and to spread awareness of the collection through social media.

Further information about the campaign can be found at https://fareshare.org.uk/ foodcollection/ swindonlink.com n

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School Profile: Great Western Academy

Get to know the schools in your area.

This issue: Great Western Academy Address: William Morris Way, SN25 2PP Contact: 01793 209700 Website: www.gwacademy.co.uk

Outstanding teaching and learning GWA Sixth Form opened in September 2018 and is the only Sixth Form school in the North Swindon area.

Mr David Smith, Head of Sixth Form, said: "We are committed to providing the local community and surrounding area with an exceptional Post 16 education and aim to be the number one choice for Sixth Form in North Swindon.

We welcome students each year from a number of local secondary schools."

The school's ACE Values; Achievement, Care and Excellence, are at the heart of everything done at GWA. Students who choose GWA Sixth Form will benefit from: - Outstanding teaching and learning - Small class sizes - A FREE laptop to support your studies in and out of school - A committed and caring tutor team to support you

every step of the way - Dedicated Sixth Form common room and facilities - Excellent careers advice and guidance - A variety of enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities - Openings for leadership roles and whole school responsibility Mr Smith added: "Life at GWA Sixth Form is not just about academic success; it is also about personal development and preparing for life beyond school. Students have opportunities to contribute to the wider community though our enrichment programme, which includes extra-curricular

activities and leadership roles, alongside super-curricular learning, work experience, and support and guidance. This enables our students to become well rounded and confident individuals.

"We are very proud to see our first group of students achieve exceptional A Level results and go on to some prestigious post-18 destinations. We look forward to celebrating further success every year as our Sixth Form grows and establishes itself as the number one provider for Post 16 Education in the local area."

If you are still deciding where to study this September, there

is still time to apply for a place at GWA for September 2021, further information can be found at www.gwacademy. co.uk/sixth-form or contact office@gwacademy.co.uk

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The Business Brief Growing client demand sees the continuation of the recruitment drive at Awdry Bailey & Douglas Solicitors Awdry Bailey & Douglas Solicitors, one of Wiltshire’s leading law firms, has continued its recruitment drive and made a number of appointments across all areas of the firm.

This includes the recruitment of Jas Chahal, Residential Conveyancer (Swindon), Kelly Rogers, Litigation Solicitor (Devizes), Sabina Islam, Legal Secretary Conveyancing (Swindon), Mandy Mears, Receptionist (Devizes), Gail Hickman, Receptionist (Devizes) and Steve McGanity, IT Support Analyst (Devizes).

Kelly has a Masters Degree in Law and over 20 years’ experience in civil litigation.

Kelly specialises in general civil litigation disputes which include contractual claims, debt recovery, personal injury, landlord and tenant, contested probate, boundary disputes and many other types of dispute.

Jas is a highly knowledgeable Residential Conveyancer with over 25 years’ experience in the field. During that time she has built up invaluable relationships with clients, estate agents and brokers. Jas re-

Litigation solicitor Kelly Rogers Residentisal conveyancer Jas Chahal

joins the firm and will use her extensive, real life expertise to offer a high quality, personal service to all clients and to ensure their move proceeds smoothly and successfully.

Alistair Everett, Managing Partner of Awdry Bailey & Douglas, said: “Our aim is to provide excellence to our clients in everything we do, and our people are at the heart of that.

"We believe in, and value our people and want everyone to enjoy working here. We do this by creating a positive, supportive and forward-

looking environment, where everyone is valued.

"That’s why we are so pleased to welcome all our new colleagues to the firm, who are able to use their knowledge and experience to benefit not only their fellow colleagues and the firm as a whole, but to continue to provide the excellent levels of client service we are renowned for throughout Wiltshire."

Awdry Bailey & Douglas is one of Wiltshire’s leading law firms, with offices in Swindon, Chippenham, Devizes, Marlborough and Royal

Wootton Bassett, and has won multiple awards for innovation and client service.

The firm currently employs over 100 people and is Lexcel and Investor in People accredited.

ABD offers a full range of legal services for individuals and for businesses including agricultural property, conveyancing, commercial, employment, family, land and development, litigation, personal injury and private client.

People interested in vacancies should email recruitment@ awdrys.co.uk or call the HR team on 01249 478333.

Pride in providing a great local cleaning service at a fair price Yucel Mehmet formed Blackberry Cleaning & Support Services 10 years ago.

The firm operates from Swindon to Newbury and surrounding areas, with offices in East Garston near Hungerford and now Swindon.

Yucel said: "I am very excited to launch our latest office and retail unit in Commercial Road. The office will support our Swindon clients together with supporting our local cleaning team.

"As a truly local company, we are committed to delivering local management and support within the Swindon area.

"Our aim is simple – delivering a clean office or building each day. Many companies state they are local but are managed sometimes up to 100 miles away! I personally live in Swindon and visit our sites weekly and sometimes even more with support from local Swindon management. We offer a tailor-made bespoke cleaning service that will fit your budget, from a full facility package to one-off cleans."

Services include office cleaning, medical sanitising, fogging, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, the supply of paper products,

hygiene and pest control, and Blackberry is also able to offer free consultations. swindonlink.com n

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FEATURES

Summer of theatre at the Old Town Bowl Words by Barrie Hudson

South Swindon Parish Council have launched a brand new season of outdoor theatre experiences called Theatre at the Bowl.

It will run from Saturday, 10 July to Saturday, 20 August, hosting a broad range of professional touring theatre companies from across the UK, looking to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.

The season opens with BlackBox Theatre’s production of Noël Coward’s timeless classic, Blithe Spirit, on Saturday 10 July, from 7pm.

Saturday, 17 July will see a story of the old world, as The Last Baguette presents King Arthur, a fun and farcical family adventure, from 2.30pm and 7pm.

On Friday, 30 July, an adaptation of F Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby will be presented by Heartbreak Productions and the Nick Carraway quartet while on the next day Heartbreak Productions will present its take on the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm.

On Thursday and Friday, 19 and 20 August, The Duke's Theatre Company will deliver the classical text of Romeo and Juliet with what is billed as modern clarity and relevance.

More information can be found at www. theatreatthebowl.co.uk, and people can also stay up to date across Theatre at the Bowl and other events and initiatives by following @SouthSwindonParish on Facebook.

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The biggest party of S It's been quite a year so far so it's definitely time we all let our hair down for a big party in the park. With that in mind you'd be a fool not to pick up tickets for Live at Lydiard which takes place in Lydiard Park on Saturday 21 August. The one-day festival boasts four stages of live music and DJs, after parties, funfairs, a boutique cocktail bar, a mini record fair, a festival food court and much more. For tickets and details visit liveatlydiard.co.uk The organisers of the Live at Lydiard festival have announced the final line-up and it's a doozie.

Grime's grandmaster Dizzee Rascal has now joined the lineup as a headline act making the event a truly 'Bonkers' time.

Dizzee joins chart-topper and The Voice judge Anne-Marie as well as a Clean Bandit DJ set as the headliners, while other major draws include Pete Tong, Joel Corry, Sean Kingston, Mistajam and Arielle Free.

The festival will take place at Lydiard Park on Saturday, 21 August, and tickets are on sale at £45 with covid refund protection.

Other acts in the line-up include Mellowmatic, Fabien Darcy, Chaney and Paul Caroll.

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Live at Lydiard promises a total of four stages of live music and djs, together with after parties, a record fair, a foodcourt and other attractions. n Essex-born singer AnneMarie, - who shot to fame for her hit single 'Rockabye' - last performed in Swindon Oasis Leisure Centre in 2019. AnneMarie’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of meteoric.

A former three times world karate champion and West End childstar, the 29-year-old has gone on to become one of the world’s most-loved, and successful, pop artists of recent years, with four UK Top 10 singles and 4.5 billion global streams to her name. Following a string of global hit singles and huge media support, Anne-Marie’s UK Top three debut album, ‘Speak Your Mind’, was released in 2018.

Now Platinum certified in the

UK, the LP has sold in excess of two million copies, globally.

Last year, Anne-Marie released her empowering comeback single, ‘Birthday’. Landing front covers and huge playlist support from launch, the single has now been streamed over 20 million times. Additionally, she currently features on the Rudimental smash single ‘Come Over’ alongside Tion Wayne as well as featuring as a judge in ITV’s ‘The Voice’. Also, her latest single ‘Don’t Play’ with ‘KSI’ and ‘Digital Farm Animals’ has been at a strong number 6 position in the Official UK Singles Chart Top 100 for the last two weeks. n Grime music pioneer Dizzee Rascal has been a mainstay on the music scene for the last decade and a half with several number ones including Bonkers and Dance Wiv Me, on which he collaborated with Calvin

Harris, to his name. Dizzee released his seventh studio album E3 AF in October 2020.

He last appeared in Lydiard Park for Radio One's Big Weekend back in 2009. n Clean Bandit will be making the crowds lose it to the beats with their DJ set at the one-day festival. The electronic music outfit have collobarated with everybody you can think of on the British pop scene from Demi Lovato to Jess Glynne and they even had a single with the aforementioned AnneMarie called 'Rockabye'. Here's hoping they'll be there to give the The Voice judge a helping hand on the day. n Things might all go a bit Pete Tong when the DJ takes to the stage for his set. A living legend on the dance music scene, Pete is known for the Essential Selection on

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CULTURE

of Swindon's summer

Radio One and living the life of an international jetset DJ, especially for his regular club nights at Pacha in Ibiza. He is also one of the main organisers of the annual International Music Summit in Ibiza. Basically he's dance music royalty. n There'll be nothing apologetic about Joel Corry's set at Live at Lydiard. The personality, who you might remember from 2019's single 'Sorry', can even boast being a Brit-nominated DJ.

n You can expect a pretty damn good DJ set from MistaJam at Lydiard. The former Radio 1 DJ now presents a show on Capital. n International JamaicanAmerican singer and rapper Sean Kingston is sure to make everyone smile at Lydiard on the day. He is known for his hit songs 'Beautiful Girls', 'Fire Burning', and 'Eenie Meenie', on which he duetted with Justin Bieber.

n The rest of the event is filled with some absolute stormers too including Radio One DJ Arielle Free, Brighton's indie pop foursome Fickle Friends, Swindon's very own Chaney, who is actually Theo Altieri who you might have seen knocking about the Swindon music scene drumming in bands since he was a child, Amyelle Mellomatic, Swindon's brilliant SN Dubstation, and popular MC Fabien Darcy. n Other acts include Play

Time, Paul Carroll, VRBL, Chris Satta, DJ Simba, Supa, Mosco, Zed Regal, DJ Format, DJ Mr Thing, Jim Sharp, John Stapleton, Matt Baila, Boom Operator, Sam Tweaks, and Tommy T. The festival takes place at Lydiard Park on Saturday, 21 August, and tickets are on sale at £45 with covid refund protection. The website is liveatlydiard.co.uk and there are frequent updates on its Facebook page. swindonlink.com n

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Honda Civic : Take civic pride in MOTORING Swindon Say goodbye to the Honda Civic, your home grown car, which was built in Swindon. But July 2021 is the date when the factory closes down for good.

That’s a great shame because almost four million have been built in the town since car production began in 1992.

But if you are looking for a good motor then the Civic is still around and this the 10th generation has long held a reputation for being reliable, dynamic and practical with a great engine to boot.

While it is expensive like all Hondas you know you are getting a good deal and the AA will rarely, if ever, come your way.

The latest Civic I drove was the 1.0T litre where prices begin at £20,000.

It was the first model in

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PROPERTY Striking new aerial footage and photography show Swindon's landmark new housing development, Wichelstowe, taking shape as construction works progress.

One of the largest local authority joint venture agreements in the country, the Wichelstowe development is being built by Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and will deliver 3,000 new homes over the next 20 years, along with new schools and community facilities.

The site of over 600 acres on the southern edge of Swindon will include extensive open spaces, nature conservation areas, playing pitches and allotments. The development also includes an industry-leading electric 24

Leigh Robinson: Motoring writer

Europe to offer Honda’s 1.0 litre three-cylinder and 1.5 litre four-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engines. These engines also achieve highly competitive fuel economy and efficiency. Both engines are available with either a newly-designed six-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic.

The three-cylinder 1.0 litre VTEC TURBO gasoline unit delivers a significant improvement in everyday power thanks to greater torque at low and midrange engine speeds.

The larger four-cylinder

1.5-litre VTEC TURBO gasoline engine provides substantially greater performance – in power and torque – over the previous Civic’s 1.8-litre VTEC. The new hatchback features a sleek and swept back silhouette and articulates a fresh and distinctive new Honda design direction which conveys a strong and sporty character.

Surprisingly the Civic has a top speed of 125 mph while 0-60mph is around 11 seconds and the mpg is between 45 and 50

depending how you are driving.

Boot space is 478 litres and the rear seats split/ fold 60:40. A hidden underfloor compartment offers a further secure storage area but this excludes Sport models.

There is a two-tier storage tray, specifically with the management of personal electronic devices in mind. The front tray provides at-a-glance and grab-and-go access to devices, with an integrated wireless smartphone charging pad available on some grades.

See what your dealership has got in stock now.

New aerial footage shows Wichelstowe taking shape as works progress vehicle charging network.

Works are steaming ahead on site with finishing touches being made to some of the new apartment buildings being created at Canalside, the first phase of the new Wichelstowe development, where the very first residents moved in last summer.

Canalside will feature 208 one, two, three and fourbedroom new homes when complete. Waitrose, The Deanery secondary school and the Hall and Woodhouse pub are already open on site offering a vibrant heart to the community from the outset.

New data shows that 75 of the 114 home sales already snapped up (some subject to contract) at Canalside so far have used the Government's Help to Buy scheme, either the new version or previous

scheme, representing a total of nearly 65 per cent.

The new version of the Government's Help to Buy scheme, which enables people to buy a new home with only a 5% deposit and a 75% mortgage, is only available to first time buyers.

Across the whole Wichelstowe development, once complete, there will be 200 acres of open space, 12km of new footways and cycleways, 1.5 acres of allotments and 20 acres of

play areas and sports pitches.

The first in a series of new planning applications for future phases of Wichelstowe were put before SBC in June. Detailed applications outlining plans for 476 new homes at Wichel Fields, alongside the newly occupied first phase homes, and The Orchards to the north of the site, were submitted to the local planning authority at the end of last year.

For more details visit www. wichelstowe.co.uk

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Are you welcoming a new puppy to the family?

PETS & NATURE

Pets column by Thameswood Vets You’ve researched the breed, been to the breeder a few times, sized up your house, had plenty of conversations, decided on your budget and – you’re ready for your new pup to join the family. It’s a great feeling isn’t it?

But welcoming your dog to the family can involve a list so long, some of it gets lost in the excitement of it all. Here are a few important things to remember…

Early Socialisation The first 12 months of your puppy’s life count towards a happy and healthy adulthood, so take the time to look for local activities in your community and professional advice from your vets such as our Unique Youth Club .

Vets Try to have an initial consultation before you welcome your puppy home, it’s something we encourage at our clinics. That way you can talk through vaccinations, worming, microchips and any other areas of early care before you become a client. Once your puppy arrives then we offer a free registration health check with one our vets and a puppy chat with your allocated nurse to go through anything and everything . We also offer a pet health plan which means you can spread the cost of that all-important preventative care and routine treatment to keep you puppy healthy and happy (at a discount!)

Visit thameswoodvets.co.uk/puppy-information for more about caring for

your puppy, and here’s to many happy years ahead with your new four-legged member of the family!

Hotel Review - Luxury on The Strand

By Jamie Hill London isn't that far away but when you're there you feel you're a world away from Swindon. It's quite hard to get your head around the fact that this bustling city is only a short car or train journey away. And I would heartily recommend a night in a central London hotel for a short escape.

We stayed in the Strand Palace Hotel for one night in early June and you couldn't pick a better central location if you tried.

In case you didn't know, The Strand is bang smack in the centre of the city, literally a stone's throw away from Embankment, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square.

Our room, which was a 'Deluxe King', seemed to have the biggest bed you've ever seen.

You could have fit a family of five in it. Luckily there were only two of us. And it was comfy to boot.

One of the things I loved about the hotel was the elegant art deco design, adding spadeloads to the feel of a luxury stay.

But the main thing that really made this hotel special was its location as it was just so close to so much that London has to offer from good restaurants to shopping, cafes and theatres.

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TRAVEL

To book a room visit strandpalacehotel.co.uk You won't regret it.

Breakfast was included in our stay and I've got to say it was absolutely perfect with freshly cooked and quality fare that would whet anybody's taste buds.

The hotel was fantastic with top class and friendly staff, as well as a Gin Palace, gym facilities, and top class restaurants and bars. swindonlink.com n

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CYCLING Cycling column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign

The quiet streets of the pandemic gave us a glimpse of what living in a low-traffic neighbourhood could be like, and it saw a huge rise in the amount of people walking and cycling.

I enjoyed being able to walk in the middle of a traffic-free street, rather than squeezed onto the usual narrow, cracked pavement – dodging parked cars and bins. The removal of the background noise of traffic gave way to birdsong.

Unfortunately, our 21st century streets have become unsafe spaces for humans,

LINK

SPORT The Euros may well be in full swing but for Swindon Town Football Club gruelling preseason preparations are about to get underway.

Leading those preparations will be the new Town gaffer John Mcgreal.

This will be Mcgreal's second managerial job in his career following a 5 year reign at Colchester. A reign in which he took the Essex outfit to the quarter finals of the Carabao Cup and a place in the playoffs.

The 49 year old has a reputation for attacking football and developing younger players.

Therefore I believe that Town have made a good appointment in Mcgreal.

He had a solid spell in charge of Colchester averaging 1.43 points per game and he has experience and pedigree at this level.

Mcgreal should bring some much needed stability both on 26

Streets for our futures especially the young, when so much public space is given over to private vehicles – both parked and moving. I have become particularly aware of this curtailment of freedom with my own small son, who is just learning to explore the world on two feet. Unlike my childhood, unless we are in a park or private garden there are very few public spaces where he can roam free and explore in a safe environment, away from the constant fear of traffic.

Our neighbourhood streets should be safe for human interaction, whether that means kids playing games or cycling to school, neighbours standing

and chatting or people strolling along while admiring gardens.

Cars, then, are seen as guests in the streets that people live.

Surely the primary function of a neighbourhood street is to retain a good quality of life, not to be a commuter throughroute?

This is not some sort of hippy dream. In many northern European countries, such as Holland, these low-traffic neighbourhoods exist. In those places, children can play safely outside the front of their house in local streets, and the elderly and disabled have a choice about how to get around.

I’m not saying that private

STFC - the pre-season

and off the pitch. As well as this I believe he comes to SN1 with a point to prove and a blank canvas to paint.

With Town choosing to release the vast majority of last season's squad it gives the new manager a chance to recruit players of his own choice.

However there are many questions over the budget he'll have.

Will the funds be made available to enable the Robins to have a shot at promotion first time of asking? Or will Swindon be left scraping around late on in the transfer window trying to secure signatures?

Mcgreal certainly has a rebuilding job on his hands.

A rebuilding job that'll take place without Swindon's hottest

prospect.

Local lad Scott Twine. Having been at the club since eleven years of age, Twine has chosen to relocate to MK Dons once his contract expires at the end of the season.

Since being recalled from Newport in January, the 21 year old became an indispensable member of the starting eleven as he bagged seven goals and at times made the extraordinary look ordinary.

Twine should flourish in an MK Dons side that I fancy to do well next season. However it's a big loss for Swindon. Not only have they lost a player with bags of ability but he also left for free.

Meaning that one of the

vehicles don’t have their place, of course they do. But if we could have a genuine choice about how to get around, place greater community value on our streets, and make them both safe and enjoyable to walk and cycle on, then I’m pretty sure that fewer people would jump in their cars to fetch milk from the corner shop.

Covid-19 gave the unique opportunity to change how we see our streets.

How about we design them for all in future? Design them for people, for physical activity, and for social interaction rather than just getting from A to B.

Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer clubs most valuable assets has walked out of the door without even bringing in a much needed transfer fee for the club.

In my opinion this pre-season is one of the most important in the club's history.

If the club was to see a repeat of last season's woeful summer then I wouldn't rule out a fight for football league status.

Should the recruitment be spot on then Town could perhaps mount another promotion push.

Before a ball has even been kicked I'd happily take a mid table finish this season.

With all that's going on off the pitch I feel as if it's important the club remains a football league outfit.

Whatever happens this summer it's time for a new chapter in the history of Swindon Town.

Hopefully the new chapter will have a happier ending than the last.

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TRADE PAGES 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.

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The Adventures of a Grieving Daughter Pre-warning, never one to shy away from life in all its glory, this month’s column includes graphic references to grief.

Basically, I recently lost my dad. It was after a long illness (three actually – diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and cancer, which turned out to be a killer combo). I was lucky enough to see him on the day he died and say goodbye, which was a huge privilege that so many have not been able to have since covid. I truly recognise what a blessing this was.

Like many others, I have lost more than one person in the last year, and this has been a huge lesson in resilience and in life in general. Grief has affected me in so many ways, so much so that I barely recognise who I was before.

The grieving process is a complete rollercoaster. I anticipated the moments of feeling so sad I thought I might die of a broken heart, but grief has also triggered moments of pure joy which

were completely unexpected.

Grief's never straightforward.

But thanks to the seven stages, I thought that it would be.

The seven stages of grief are well known: Shock and denial, pain and guilt, anger and bargaining, depression, the upward turn, reconstruction and working through, acceptance and hope. I’d read about these, we all have, so I thought I was well prepared.

But in my opinion, the seven stages are a massive misrepresentation (I demand a refund), because it suggests that grief is a linear process that can be followed like a map. At least that’s what I expected. My experience has been completely different, with more twists and turns than

that episode of Dallas where it turns out it was all a dream.

I’ll give them the shock and denial, that’s definitely one of the early symptoms. But one of the things accompanying the shock and denial for me was a sort of “this isn’t that bad” feeling (which I suppose is denial) because I had literally just seen them, so their absence from my life had yet to be obvious. This was accompanied by a massive sense of guilt that I had this feeling. Surely, I should be more upset?

Of course, as time wore on, and the time that I hadn’t seen them stretched into weeks and then months, I long to go back to those early days when their voice was fresh in my ears or the look in their eyes was so

Beth Ritchie: Swindon Link columnist easily conjured in my mind.

I certainly hadn’t expected the “going about my business being perfectly fine one minute, then bawling my eyes out the next, then back to perfectly fine again very, very quickly” stage, which is ongoing, and I know from experience lasts well past the six-month mark.

(This is often accompanied by the “telling all and sundry that someone has just died” stage.

Sorry taxi driver and Tesco checkout person.)

But one of the main things that I hadn’t expected, and arguably the most selfish part of grief… is the fact that your own mortality marches up and smacks you around the face in a way that is impossible to ignore. The death of someone close to you is one of the starkest reminders that one moment we are here, and the next, we may not be. propergrownup.com

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