North West Swindon Link October 2017

No 425 October 2017

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 125,000

North and West Swindon Edition

A meal in a million at The Chop House p30

Colour me bad!

Running the Rainbow for Prospect Hospice page 4

Community: P3-26

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

Swindon Wide: P27-38

Services: P39-45

Politics: P46

Community News Director: James Phipps

Exciting times at Swindon Link

By Group Editor Jamie Hill Swindon is moving fast at the moment. Everywhere you look new developments are sprouting up, new office buildings are being built, new companies are moving into the town and our communities are changing beyond recognition.

To reflect this, Swindon Link, as you can see below, has also had to move with the times and this month we are launching the new East Swindon edition of the magazine.

On top of this we have also launched a new directory service on our website which is something I'm particularly excited by.

This makes www.swindonlink.com your one-stop shop to get your community news as well as being an essential tool to find whatever service you might need from plumbers to local solicitors.

For our advertisers it is also good news as we are giving away free directory listings to anyone who books a print advert in the magazine.

Online marketing for businesses

ADVERTISING Call 01793 781502 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com

is a growth area for companies using Swindon Link at the moment and it has become a fundamental part of the marketing mix.

But print remains an essential component of almost any successful ad campaign and in fact, may be a more powerful marketing tool than ever as print pieces really stand out and have more shelf life than digital. Print advertising also lends credibility to your message and has a higher level of engagement than digital.

A good ad campaign should involve a mix of print and online and Swindon Link can offer everything you need.

We are in a fast moving world and like our town, Swindon Link is ahead of the curve. jamie@swindonlink.com

Closing date for November adverts and editorial: 11 October November edition published: 27 October

Group Editor: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Ben Fitzgerald Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Claire Dukes Sales Admin Manager: Sue Roberts Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley Office Manager: Karen Randall Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com

Positive Media Group Limited, Unit 3, Arclite House, Century Road, Swindon SN5 5YN T: 01793 744677 E: publisher@swindonlink.com Our Statistics Est. Readership of 125,000 in print & c.25,000 monthly online visitors.

Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £51.

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.

Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford

The Link expands across the whole of Swindon Swindon Link is now delivered door to door to more than half of the town's households.

From this month we are launching a third edition of Swindon Link covering the east of the town. This takes the total number of magazines distributed door to door to 50,000.

By industry standards of 2.5 readers per publication our readership can now be measured at 125,000.

The new East edition which includes Liden, Dorcan, Covingham and Stratton joins the existing North West Swindon edition and the South Swindon edition meaning we now cover every compass point of the town.

At the last count Swindon had about 90,000 households with a population of 222,000. But Swindon is growing all the time with new developments being built in the north, west, east and south.

Our role at Swindon Link is to continue to be at the centre of community life in the town. To do this, we need to grow as the town grows.

We are proud to be an important voice for communities letting people know exactly what is going on at a local level.

We will also be delivering magazines to selected stockists throughout the area to make sure we cover the pockets of the town that are not covered by door to door delivery.

For our advertisers we will still continue to provide competitive advertising prices with heavy discounts now permanently in place if a business would like to be in multiple editions.

It is a far cry from Swindon Link's humble beginnings in 1978 as a community newsletter for the newly built developments of West

Swindon.

Owner James Phipps said: "We are very proud and excited to be able to deliver Swindon Link to more than half of the town's households.

"I bought Swindon Link in 2014 with the aim of making it a publication that could benefit the entirety of the town. It is a unique publication that helps to tie communities together.

"Swindon is growing at a rate of knots and The Link is perfectly placed to help bind these new communities into town life."

On top of the increased print run with Swindon Link going out to new areas, a lot of

work has also been going on in the background on our website at www.swindonlink.com As well as the ability to read a digital version of the magazine it is a 24/7 news website in its own right keeping our readers up to date on all the goings on in the town. With breaking news, opinion pieces as well as a new business directory the website is definitely taking Swindon Link into the future.

All in all this makes Swindon Link the major media force of the town - the perfect place to get your message across and reach the biggest readership. swindonlink.com n October 2017

3

Community News

Charity runners paint the rainbow across Lydiard Park Prospect Hospice threw down the gauntlet for people who took part in its annual fundraising event, Run the Rainbow, at Lydiard Park on Saturday 16 September.

Nearly 1,000 people participated in the event this year.

During the 5km multi-coloured extravaganza, runners, who began the race dressed in white, were doused in powder paint and ended up fashioning a rainbow of colour.

The event is always family friendly and open to anyone who wishes to take part.

The multi terrained route was

designed to accommodate all capabilities, from jogging and walking to wheelchair users.

The money raised is to enable the non-profit chairty to provide expert care for young children, as well as their families.

Alongside the generous donations, and colourful participants, the event as always was about having fun - needless to say, no one left looking (too) blue.

Prospect Hospice's winter event, Santa Fun Run, takes place Sunday 17 December. To sign up visit www. prospect-hospice.net/santafunrun

Spirit of Swindon: Changing the script around housing

By Tom Wilkes The Government has acknowledged that not enough homes are being built in the UK. Records show that 190,000 homes were constructed in 2015-16 but commentators agree that we now need at least 300,000 per year. This building shortfall has happened in each of the last ten years so the national backlog is huge.

Government data also shows that any increase in housing stock has not gone to owner occupiers but principally to the private rented sector. This has contributed to the drop in home ownership rates - now down to around 60%.

A report by the housing charity Shelter has flagged the significance of the unhealthy relationship between mortgage owners, property developers and mortgage providers. A mutual vested interest is having the effect of reducing the supply of new housing and keeping costs high. For the average family the costs of housing escalate, especially in some areas of the country, while housing developers make millions.

First time buyers face particular challenges as ‘market forces’ are used to excuse what may be regarded as greed.

As Catherine West, MP, observed in a recent lecture, each new home owner tends to be richer than the person they buy from, while each person who moves into social property tends to be poorer than the previous tenant.

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www.woodbrooke.org.uk/listen-to-the-2017swarthmore-lecture-today So how does this play out in Swindon and how can our town rise to this national challenge?

The figures show that roughly 13,000 families claimed housing benefit in 2016, with 2,700 on the council waiting list; 450 households were in temporary accommodation by the end of March 2017 and an average of 50 households were homeless throughout the year. This mix presents many people, particularly young men, with a difficult situation when it comes to finding accommodation.

Last month Spirit of Swindon highlighted the shift of government money from building homes into subsidising rents. In our town almost £30 million is paid each year in Housing Benefit to local landlords.

Recently the Local Government Association called for Councils to have more powers and funding to resume building of affordable homes and social housing. Any lifting of borrowing restrictions would need to be part of a national strategy, along with other suggestions such as the development industry accepting lower profit margins and more public land being released.

However, it is possible for local approaches to have an impact, as is happening in other parts of the country. For example, in Bristol the ‘abolish empty office building’ strategy has

demonstrated what an enterprising solution can begin to achieve. www.aeobhousepeople.org.uk Previous articles from Spirit of Swindon have illustrated how economic inequality has gradually been poisoning the UK over the last forty years. We have drawn attention to the impact on health, culture and pay and offered links to further information which support this diagnosis.

Our articles show that, in terms of some indicators, Swindon is doing as well or better than other towns, while in others we do less well. The impact of inequality is likely to worsen unless we accept the need to address it nationally. By giving a lead as a town, we not only help ourselves but encourage others to take action.

One thing you can do this month? Follow one of the links referenced here, or continue to send in your experiences and ideas about housing, nationally and in Swindon. You could also consider becoming one of the 200 Equality Ambassadors, an initiative associated with Swindon200 - swindon200.uk/equalityambassadors.

Spirit of Swindon has emerged from a gathering of people who want to raise consciousness of the impact of economic inequality and help Swindon offer a lead to other towns and cities in the UK.

Community News

Rev John heading out for Gambia trip Fire service chaplain John Maxwell is preparing to fly out to the Gambia to distribute medical supplies, baby clothing and share his love of the beautiful game.

The Rev Maxwell, who is a dedicated football coach, also plans to take out bags of football kit and equipment with him when he flys out with his wife Christine next month.

He said: “We don’t ask for any money, we are not a registered charity but we do get a lot of donations of football kit and clothes to take out there.

“We do it because we love it, this will be our 14th trip out there, we try to go twice a year. We fly to the capital Banjul and we are met out there. We are made to feel welcome - The Gambia is a very poor country.”

Rev John Maxwell, who is chaplain to 11 Swindon fire stations, began his regular trips to the West African country eight years ago when he was invited on a trip arranged by Swindon College.

Anyone able to support Rev Maxwell’s next trip to The Gambia with donations of clothing or medical supplies should email johnfirechaplain@hotmail.com

Spooky things are happening at Swindon's Brunel Centre...

While Halloween falls on 31 October, spooky and frightful fun dominates this year’s October half term at The Brunel Shopping Centre in the town centre.

The eerie fun starts on the first day of half-term with free craft activities.

On Thursday 19 and Friday 20 October children of all ages will be able to make pumpkin masks, spooky spiders and much more in the craft area.

Then, on Monday 23 October, there will be cake decorating where young bakers can show off their ghoulish designs.

Tuesday 24 October will see the return of the event's popular puppet show, with a cast line up of ghosts and ghouls Each show lasts 30 minutes and will take place at

News in brief Year of Sanctuary Refugee charity ‘Swindon City of Sanctuary’ held a meeting at Los Gatos restaurant in Old Town to celebrate a year since the organisation’s launch.

Development Worker, Nicola Wood, said: “We are thoroughly excited to be hosting this year’s regional meeting for City of Sanctuary. It's fantastic to be part of a growing movement to make the UK and Ireland a safe, welcoming place for all who live here, especially for those who have had to flee from war and persecution."

In June, Swindon City of Sanctuary took a lead in organising Swindon’s biggest Refugee Week to date, with the support of local businesses and charities such as The Harbour Project.

Adver editor leaves

intervals throughout the day.

Wyvern Theatre staff will be appearing at the event 25 October for a colouring competition.

Budding artists have a chance to win a family ticket to upcoming panto Peter Pan. With balloon modelling on 26 October and face painting on 27 and 28 October, there will be something for everyone.

For those just a bit braver, how about a ghost tour of the basement of The Brunel Shopping Centre.

This is of course a family friendly event, but a word of caution: children and those easily spooked, should be accompanied by an adult.

The editor of the Swindon Advertiser, Gary Lawrence, has left after six years at the helm.

Gary, who has worked for the Newsquest group for 28 years, was also responsible for the Adver’s sister title, the Oxford Mail.

Staff were told the news on Tuesday in an internal memo from Newsquest’s regional managing director Chris Moore.

It is thought that Deputy Editor Michelle Tomkins will take over as managing editor until a new editor is appointed.

Care this Christmas Swindon’s Christmas Care charity is offering people the chance to reach out to others over the festive period. The organisation is holding an information evening on Monday 13 November and Tuesday 21 November (7.30pm) for those wanting to find out more. Christmas Care is looking for helpers aged over 18 to help provide a caring shelter for homeless and vulnerable adults.

The charity supports people from 11am on December 24 to 10am on 28 December. www.ChristmasCareSwindon. org.uk Contact: Diane Killick - 01793 336420 or xmascare@gmail.com swindonlink.com n October 2017

7

Community News

Bus route axed after demand falls

Police welcome speed camera plan Thamesdown will no longer run the R1 Service

Proposals to install speed cameras on Thamesdown Drive have been Swindon bus company Thamesdown of its 55 service to Royal Wootton welcomed by Wiltshire Police. has announced it will no longer run Bassett. That meant too many buses A spokesman from Wiltshire Police its R1 service between the town and serving the same area, and fewer said: “We understand Swindon Royal Wootton Basset from October people travelling on each vehicle – Borough Council are considering the something we just could not sustain installation of cameras in the area 22.

The company introduced its new for the longer term. and this is something we would route in May this year in response "There weren’t enough users to support.” to local demand, but the number cover our operating costs. With the The plan has been backed by of passengers travelling on the R1 55 route currently serving the area Police and Crime Commissioner every 10 minutes, we do not expect Angus Macpherson, who chairs the dropped, after a promising start. this move to have a detrimental Thamesdown general manager, Road Safety Partnership group and Alex Chutter said: “We introduced effect on bus passengers here.” chief constable Mike Veale.

For more information about the route at our own cost but this “To have such cameras directed Thamesdown, please visit popularity prompted another local at traffic light offences as well as swindonbus.co.uk operator to increase the frequency speeding offences would be the

goal,” said Mr Macpherson.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “Following discussions at the Wiltshire and Swindon Road Safety Partnership, the council is currently considering installing CCTV at key locations on Thamesdown Drive. This will allow driver behaviour to be monitored and images passed to the police for further action should an incident take place.”

The move comes in the wake of a spate of speeding offences on the north Swindon road and the recent tragic death of Valerie Affleck, 73, in early August.

Call Michael today on 01793 612333

swindonlink.com n October 2017

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Community News

Darkroom Espresso's doors are open to all from across the world

By Claire Dukes Organised by City of Sanctuary, over the last three months Darkroom Espresso has been hosting their weekly event 'We are Open'.

Supported by volunteers from The Harbour Project, which began back in 2003, both organisations support refugees and asylum seekers fleeing war from over 40 countries.

The purpose of this partnership with the cafe on Faringdon Road is to provide a warm and welcoming event in an informal social space.

Harbour Project volunteer, Jol Rose, said: "Swindon has so much culture, it just doesn't realise that it's already here.

"The event helps to find common ground with people around Swindon, to make connections. You never know who's going to show up - everyone is welcome."

You can definitely feel that connection from the moment you enter the cafe. Arguably, there's more of a buzz here than Wood Street on a Friday night.

Various games are situated across the tables, with a bottomless supply of teas circulating. Last Thurday, volunteer Marina

rustled up a homemade plum and almond cake. It's these humble contributions from volunteers and Darkroom staff, like barista Ruby, which encapsulate the inclusive vibe of this event.

We are Open certainly establishes the aims of these charities by celebrating diversity and culure, and Darkroom enables a safe space for people to experience this.

Born in Tehran, Hassan Noperver was originally a history teacher and taught in Iran for seven years.

His journey from Iran, at the time was unexpected which he explains is why his English is not very good.

His journey in the UK began in Gatwick to Croydon, to Cardiff and now Swindon.

He's currently looking to improve his English before applying for a job, to open more doors and potentially teach again.

When asking how he's finding Swindon, we exchange words on my notepad, and he writes: "It is small, but people are very kind.

My son goes to school, and speaks very good English."

Hassan then laughs as he explains how his son, Amir, is teaching him to speak English with the help of

YouTube.

What's so increible about the charities' work, and We are Open, is that there is a real sense of community which has been created in Swindon.

It marks the importance of local communities working together and supporting people, like Hassan and Amir, to improve their quality of life and make them feel welcome.

Inspired by Open Cafes in Germany volunteer Annie Vickers, from the Harbour Project, explained how two German tourists were staying at a nearby hotel in Swindon, heard the buzz and popped into Darkroom.

Annie said: "They began

socialising with the volunteers and people from all different places, and left with a really positive view of Swindon."

The owner of Darkroom, Will Davies, reflected on how obvious the decsion was to host the event.

He concluded: "As a business owner, with all this space, I felt as though I had an obligation.

"If we can have gigs, meetings and a cycling club here we can have this too.

"It's so nice to watch it grow."

Jol added: "It's really starting to happen, what with so many people coming from elsewhere. And we really have to thank Will - he made this all happen."

Akers Way repairs hit by more delays

Cllr Mary Martin with project manager Tomasz Wysocki

Drivers will have to contend with a further month of delays after contractors working on the fifth and final phase of the Akers Way resurfacing scheme found that the road was in a significantly worse state than they had thought.

Project manager Tomasz Wysocki explained: “Originally we were hoping to have finished the entire project by the end of this month, but when we started working on this section of the road we found that the underlying base layer of concrete was damaged all the way."

Mr Wysocki explained that he would be working with Swindonbased contractors Rockstone Surfacing to crush down the concrete base layer before adding further composite surface layers which are designed to be hard

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wearing, flexible and waterproof – giving the road surface an effective life of at least 40 years.

Councillor Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for communities and place said: “ “The patience shown by motorists, residents, businesses and schools has been admirable and I would just urge everyone to bear with us while we get over this final hurdle.”

Drivers are urged to continue to allow extra time for their journeys.

Access to Nova Hreod Academy will remain via the west section of Akers Way. The Diversion route for the last phase of work will continue to be: Purton Road, Moredon Road, Cheney Manor Road and Akers Way. Further information about the scheme can be found at: www. swindon.gov.uk/akersway

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John Pearce (left), Belinda, Tracy and David.

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Community News

Firefighters help boost youngsters' self esteem News in brief A week-long firefighting course for young people and adults with Down’s syndrome reached a dramatic crescendo on Friday with a Pass Out Parade and demonstration by those taking part.

With a wail of sirens and blue lights flashing, the team of youngsters were put through their paces in front of an audience of family and friends – and had the opportunity to show off some of the skills they had learned.

It is the ninth time that Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has worked with Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group to run the skills course known as Salamander.

Over the week, a group of 17 young people and adults – aged between 12 and 30 – are supported by local firefighters, a police officer and paramedics to develop their confidence and self-esteem.

The Salamander programme encourages participants to work as a team by learning firefighting skills such as using hoses, pumping appliances and hydrants; abseiling; ladder climbing; search and rescue; casualty care; road traffic collision rescue skills and water rescue.

U3A freshers' fair

At the end of the course, which is being held at Swindon fire station, the group put on a display of their new skills for family, friends and senior Fire & Rescue Service officers.

Watch Manager Mark Evans, who organises the course, said: “This is always an incredibly rewarding week, not just for the young people and their families, but also for the instructors from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Wiltshire Police and South Western

Ambulance Service.

"For some participants, it is their first time on the course; for others, it is a repeat visit – in both cases, we see the young people grow in confidence throughout the seven days.”

He added: “The final presentation on the Friday is so much fun, the group love showing off their new skills to their families, and the parents get so much joy from seeing what their children have achieved during this time.”

Project breathes new life into empty shops After many years standing empty, two shops on the corner of Faringdon Road and Catherine Street, Swindon, are about to see a new lease of life providing eight homes and two retail units.

Forward Swindon Limited, the Council’s regeneration agency, has awarded a £600,000 contract to Swindon-based SAS Build Limited. The contract was won by competitive tender and will see the company undertake a complete renovation and conversion of the building.

Cllr Garry Perkins, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: “The refurbishment of these two properties are just a small part of our plans to improve the link between the Great Western Works railway heritage quarter with the town centre.

The regeneration will see two selfcontained shops of 1087sq.ft and 1420 sq.ft for lease and eight new homes for sale.

The homes will be a mix of studios and 2-bedroom apartments including one duplex apartment. All will be finished to a high standard internally and externally the building will receive a sympathetic treatment to reflect the period of

Last month, Swindon U3A held its annual Freshers’ Fair at St Joseph’s College. It was an opportunity for existing members to renew their memberships and look at the range of new courses on offer.

More than 250 prospective members turned up to look at the huge range of activities on offer, from foreign language learning, dancing and painting to walking and even debating.

U3A is a registered charity run by volunteers and are always looking to recruit additional help. Contact U3A at office@ swindonu3a.org.uk

Mindful conference

Swindon Mindful Employer Network is holding its 2017 conference at the Swindon Marriott on Monday 9 October.

Speakers at the event include former Global Vice-President of HR for Unilever Geoff McDonald, top international organisational psychologist Professor Sir Cary Cooper and Olympian and business coach Doctor David Hemery CBE. Frances Mayes of Public Health at Swindon Borough Council said: “I have been heartened by the enthusiasm shown by local employers for this network which indicates the high level of interest in mental wellbeing in the workplace.

For more information see www. swindonmind.org/swindonmindful-employers-network

Free lectures offered

An artists' impression of how the Faringdon Road site could look

the building. This will really help improve the look of this area of town and improve the retail choice.”

SAS Build will start on site early September and the build is scheduled for completion early in 2018.

Commenting on the award of the contract SAS Build Limited’s Managing Director Nick Underwood said: “SAS Build Ltd., is excited to be involved in such an important project for the town and are looking forward to working with Forward

Swindon on the development.

As a resident of Swindon I have driven past the building many times and have admired its period features, we now have the opportunity to bring them back to their original condition for all to enjoy in the future.”

The flats are to be fitted with quality kitchens and bathrooms and will be finished to a high standard overall. Forward Swindon is in the process of appointing a sales agent for the residential properties.

Students interested in a career in engineering, technology and aviation can take advantage of free lectures at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham.

The programme of talks covers a diverse range of subjects, including an examination of The Rosetta Mission – Landing on a Comet; aircraft crash investigations; a look at unmanned aviation support as well as a base visit to RAF Brize Norton.

Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (also free entrance). For further details, please contact the Defence Academy and Swindon Royal Aeronautical Society by email raeswindon@gmail.com or phone: 07740 136609. swindonlink.com n October 2017

13

Community News

Take a look at Oxford Brookes

It's your chance to find out more about how Oxford Brookes University can help you develop your career prospects.

Get inspired about creating your future by talking to academics, application experts and the friendly team of Student Ambassadors at the Oxford Brookes autumn undergraduate open days.

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Swindon open days: Adult Nursing and Operating Department Practice l Saturday 14 October l Saturday 11 November If you can't make it, you can visit Oxford Brookes any time by booking a campus tour.

For further information about Oxford Brookes, log on to their website at www.brookes.ac.uk

Community News

Even better than the rail thing!

Rail enthusiasts from across the country made tracks for the town this weekend for the annual Swindon Railway Festival.

This popular event held at Steam is an annual celebration of steam railways and is heaven for model railway fans. Visitors got to see some of the best and largest model railway layouts in the country, and were able to visit the special exhibits, displays and trade stands.

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The model railways on display were uniquely designed and built by railway groups and enthusiasts.

There were also several modelling demonstrations.

Visitors were also able to climb onto the footplate of the museum’s famous locomotives, including Caerphilly Castle and were given the chance to meet drivers and firemen who worked on the Great Western Railway.

Community News

Needles at the ready for Swindon’s TV Sewing Bee Ryan Walklett Swindon’s very own TV Sewing Bee, Ryan Walklett, shared his stitching skills with dressmakers and sewing fans from across the UK on 21-24 September when The Great British Sewing Bee Live opened its doors for the first time at ExCel London.

The exciting new live event draws on the appeal of the popular TV show with a 1,200 seat Super Theatre hosted by BBC Children in Need Sewing Bee Celebrity Special host Jenny Éclair and featuring TV judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young.

Ryan joined contestants from across the programme’s four seasons to lend his support to brave volunteers taking part in a live alteration challenge on the Super Theatre stage.

Before the show aired, Ryan said: “It’s been such a whirlwind four years since filming the TV show.

The whole process gave me the biggest confidence boost in my skills and has also opened doors for me.

"I’m not only a contestant but a huge fan of the Sewing Bee as well, although I confess I’m feeling nervous about seeing the judges again.

The show has inspired a lot of people; I used to get letters from viewers in Australia asking if I would come and run classes there. It’s going to be great to see all the sewers again.”

Other highlights included a gallery of stand-out garments from the TV programme, a dressmaking drop-in clinic, a dressmaking fashion catwalk by the world’s leading pattern companies and an exhibition by the Fashion and

Textile Museum celebrating the 140th anniversary of Liberty in Fashion.

Sewing Bee judge Esme Young said: “Whether you’re a professional tailor or hobby dressmaker, fashion student or vintage fan, there’s something for Ryan Walklett : the busy Bee at work everyone with a love of sewing. We hope visitors will leave the show inspired and full of ideas for their next dressmaking project.”

Since the show was filmed, Ryan has been working as a costume supervisor in the UK and in America. Recent projects include 1984, Wicked, The Boys in the Band, Miss Saigon and The Last Five Years.

He is currently in rehearsals for the UK Tour of Deathtrap however he hasn’t completely stayed away from the cameras, as he will be making an appearance in a new BBC drama starting later this year.

The Great British Sewing Bee Live took place on 21st-24th September at Judges : Patrick Grant and Esme Young.

ExCel London.

HIGHWORTH WARNEFORD SCHOOL Shrivenham Road, Highworth SN6 7BZ

An Academy Putting Excellence First

OPEN MORNINGS/AFTERNOONS Monday 25 September to Friday 13 October Highworth Warneford is an excellent secondary school providing an outstanding learning environment which allows pupils to thrive and develop their academic, personal and social skills.

In our most recent Ofsted report pupils’ behaviour was described as ‘outstanding both in lessons and around the school’ and such behaviour makes a ‘strong contribution to their learning’.

So that you can see for yourself the quality of our provision, we would like to invite you to visit the school on a normal working day. Each visit lasts for up to 1½ hours and will give you the opportunity to see lessons and meet pupils and staff.

To book your visit please contact Mrs Lewis, Admissions Officer, on (01793) 767083 or email: llewis@warneford.swindon.sch.uk swindonlink.com n October 2017

19

Community News

Driving rain does little to dampen enthusiasm for half marathon Congratulations to everyone who took part in this year’s new look Swindon half marathon sponsored by Nationwide.

Despite the driving rain, hundreds of runners took on the 13.1 mile route which followed a route through the town – starting from the County Ground and taking in many key Swindon landmarks before the ending at Wharf Green in the town centre.

Organisers thanked the patience

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of drivers who were caught out by the road closures and pledged to examine how to reduce disruption at next year’s event.

The event was won by Ben Cole of Swindon Harriers in a jaw dropping time of 1hr 8 mins and 7 sec.

And the first woman over the line was club runner Fee Maycock from Cheltenham and County Harriers with an excellent 1hr 26 mins and 3 sec.

Community News

Build your own green home Plenty of organisations in and around Swindon are in need of extra hands. Swindon's volunteer centre continues to provide quality support to organisations in need of extra help. Occupations available range from theatre and retail, to teaching and health care.

Do you enjoy books and reading?

Beanstalk provide one-to-one literacy support to children across England who struggle with their reading ability and confidence.

Becoming a Beanstalk reading helper is a great way to make a difference to a child’s life and enjoy a rewarding volunteering experience.

Are you mad for shopping, and cats?

Cats Protection is looking for volunteers who are able to promote their organisaton in store. The role is suitable for volunteers interested in retail and cats.

Are you a lover of the arts?

Reach would like people with an interest in visual arts to come and support the members of their

art group at the weekly sessions.

You'd be meeting and greeting members, making drinks, helping to set up the sessions and helping the members take part. You'll also get an opportunity to try out some of the creative art sessions when you're not actively undertaking your volunteering role.

Are you looking for room to fill?

Room For All hosting matches destitute asylum seekers and refugees to people with spare rooms who are prepared to accommodate them rent free for a defined period of time whilst the individual is receiving support to explore routes out of destitution.

To find out how you can get involved in these or any of the many other volunteering opportunities please contact Volunteer Centre Swindon on 01793 420557 or email info@ swindonvolunteers.org.uk .

The centre is at 1 John Street Swindon and is open between 11am -3pm Monday to Friday.

You can also find these at the new Do-it website at do-it.org

If you have ever dreamed of building your own energy efficient home, the National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) can help.

The Big Green Home Show takes place from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 October and gives visitors the chance to find out how to build an energy efficient, healthy home.

The show offers a packed three days of live demonstrations, free seminars and case studies along with an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their advice, and builds on the topics covered on the NSBRC Eco Workshops that run throughout the year.

Over 220 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products and technologies. There are also guided tours of the NSBRC’s fantastic educational zones, featuring a life size 'Renovation House' and 'New Build Journey'. " For 2017 there is a strong empasis on creating a healthier living environment for you and

your family and the show reviews the best construction methods to use through live demonstrations and a line-up of seminars covering everything you need to get started from planning news to budgeting, plot finding and building regulations.

The NSBRC's own team of impartial experts along with eco-consultants, architects, project managers and planners will be ready to meet for one-on-one sessions throughout the show. Offering free advice, they will happily talk through your ideas with you, no matter how big or small, and offer their expert opinions and guidance on even the trickiest of questions.

Tickets cost £12 per adult on the door. Link readers can claim FREE tickets by booking in advance through www.nsbrc.co.uk/the-biggreen-home-show and selecting booking code: Link Magazine.

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Community News

Loveable lifesavers take the plunge in charity open day Wagging Tails’ second event for ‘Take the Plunge’ basks in another year of action-packed success.

The total money raised is yet to be fully calculated, but thanks to the incredible efforts of the organisers, and fundraisers, it’s looking to exceed £4000 in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Provided by the Charity Newfound Friends UK, Newfoundland dogs were tasked with ‘rescuing’ the fundraisers, or ‘casualties’, from South Cerney Outdoor’s lake.

The dogs have been trained since they were puppies to perform water rescues, and Newfound Friends continue to raise money towards their training so that the dogs can continue to provide life saving skills.

These Newfoundlands have become invaluable to the lives of adults and children with disabilities, as well as the elderly.

Hilary Coates, from Wagging Tails SN, said: “We owe a great deal to the Newfound Friends UK, who offer their time free of charge to help charities raise money.”

One fundraiser said: “The dogs were amazing and

Somebody let the dogs out their trainers were so supportive.”

30 people took the plunge last Saturday, whilst friends and family spectated the rescue missions enjoying cake and refreshments on dry land. There was also an opportunity to hear from Hearing Dog recipient Ian. With his Hearing Dog, Buddy, Ian was able to demonstrate the way in which Buddy and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has improved his quality of

life.

It’s definitely not the most conventional sight to see at South Cerney’s Outdoor, especially as these Newfoundland dogs look like mini bears, but these friendly giants were hard at work which successfully paid off.

Top Adult Fundraiser, Julie Andrews, raised £722.50 and was awarded the first prize bottle of champagne.

In a very short space of time, after returning from holiday, Tom Ford raised £162 which got him a large teddy bear and a tub of celebrations for Top Junior Fundraiser.

Another fundraiser added: “I wanted to say a massive thank you to Wagging Tails for organising such a wonderful event”

Dealing with the stress of young adult life Everyone experiences stress, including children and teenagers.

At the moment, there are many young adults going to university or starting out in their first 'proper job'.

There are teenagers starting sixth form or college, children of all ages about to go up a school year and little ones about to start.

The experience can be frightening.

Change of any sort can throw us into the fight or flight part of our brains, where sometimes it wrongly assumes something as a

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threat. This can lead to anxiety and panic attacks.

Hypnotherapy can help relax and calm children as they take on new experiences.

Hypnosis painlessly accesses the part of the brain which triggers the flight or fight response.

Jan has a DBS clearance check which means she can work with children and young adults.

Call Jan on 07501066717 to discuss how hypnotherapy can help your child go to the next stage of their learning in a calm and positive way.

Community News

Left to right, bell ringers: Susannah Moore, Nici Brown, Jenny Moore, Diana Martin, Vanessa Collins and Jeff Owen

The Bell Ringers of Lydiard Tregoze

By Claire Dukes

Up high in the bell tower of St Mary’s Church, sounds the chimes from the Lydiard Tregoze Bell Ringers.

Since 2009, the ringers have been gracing the Lydiard area with their musical methods.

The oldest bells in the tower were first cast in 1635, but it wasn't until the 1960s that bell ringers started pulling the strings.

The bell tower houses six bells in total with the heaviest, the tenor, weighing 550kg which was cast in 1701.

The lightest bell, the treble, weighs 200kg and alongside the remaining four was part of the rehanging at St Mary's which took place in 1964.

As seen in period dramas, what one could expect are the bells to be grandly swinging high above whilst the group perform. However given the extrodinary weight of the bells, over the course of the years, this medieval style of practice raised concerns over the ringers' safety.

Nowadays, a frame sits directly above between the bells and their ringers. Needless to say, Quasimodo's antics in Notre Dame would be extremely discouraged.

In 1920 the wooden frame at St Mary's was removed as it became rotten, and was replaced during the rehanging in 1964.

As well as composing methods, that captures the auro of Lydiard, St Mary's tower is deeply imbedded

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within national history.

Like most churches during World War II, bell ringing grinded to a halt and bells proceeded only to be rung as a warning during German invasions.

This act was entitled the ‘Control of Noise Defence Order’, introduced

by Churchill in 1940.

In May 1945 the bells of St Mary, and the rest across the nation, were able to ring once again to mark the end of the war.

Leaping forward to 2017, it's safe to say the Lydiard Tregoze Bell Ringers are primarily about fun.

Despite strict regulations within some other Churches, the group at Lydiard are not required to have Christian persuasion which has certainly enabled their group to expand.

Bell ringer, Susannah Moore, said: “Mum and I learnt together on a trip out. It just seemed like a cool thing to do.

"It’s kind of addictive, and it’s a great way to get involved in the local community.”

Since joining Tregoze, Susannah has gone on to university and become a bell master of ‘Birmingham Universities Society Change Ringers’.

As well as their Tuesday night practices, the Tregoze bell ringers have been chiming across the country at competitions, weddings and church services.

Tower Captain and mother, Jenny Moore, said: “We always need more bell ringers. It’s such a nice hobby, and the competitions are getting bigger every year!”

From competitions and church services, to a gathering of like-

minded people, Lydiard Tregoze is more than a quirky evening actvity.

Dena Osman said: "You make good friendships. Friendships that last forever. Most ringers have known one another for a lifetime.

"I met my partner through ringing. My best friends are all ringers, and we go on ringing holidays. I've been involved since I was last 17."

Nici Brown added: "I've always liked churches, looking at the architecture and learning about the history.

"With that I found out about the bell ringing."

Bell ringers by Tuesday night, come Wednesday the group disperse to their daily routines.

As such a bell-life balance is essential, which is another reason the group are more than welcoming to new memebers.

Jeff Owen joined Lydiard Tregoze in May and is nearly at Sunday Service standards after four months.

Jeff said: "I heard about bell ringing on BBC Wiltshire for another tower, but I went to the wrong group, so I've been here since!"

Either way, bell ringing is extremely accessible, for those who just want to try it out for artistic leisure or for an unconventional gym session.

Jenny said: It feels like you've had a work out, but it's great for the bingo wings."

Should you wish to have a go at bell ringing, contact Tower Captain, Jenny at jem277@yahoo.com

Community News

30 years for Prime youth theatre Swindon’s cultural gems are often hidden from view, but its only professional theatre company is now opening its doors with free and subsidised opportunities for young actors, writers and technicians to join its weekly workshops and productions.

Prime Theatre, previously known as Sixth Sense Theatre for Young People, is Arts Council supported and based at the Wyvern Theatre.

Prime is currently celebrating 30 years of award-winning work in schools and communities and has plenty of exciting opportunities for children and young people.

Regular activities at the Wyvern explore acting and performance.

From script work to devising; puppetry to circus; improvisation to full scale productions; there is something for everyone. The company also runs groups who specialise in playwriting and stage technology, giving Swindon’s young people the opportunity to work with theatre professionals from all different disciplines.

Unlike many youth theatres Prime is open to everyone, no audition necessary and a grant fund welcomes those who wouldn't

otherwise be able to afford the already cheap membership fees.

Members of Prime Youth Theatre also work alongside famous professionals including Sherlock and Dr Who star Mark Gatiss who appeared in one of their recent productions, as well as Horrible Histories creator Terry Deary who writes regularly for the company.

Prime is also welcoming a new Associate Director, Emma Barr.

Emma is a Canadian Drama lead and director who has just moved to Swindon after working in London and studying at the prestigious Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. “I’m very excited to get to know Swindon through its young people. Anyone joining us in youth theatre can expect to develop confidence and communication.” said Emma Barr.

Prime Youth Theatre makes several shows a year and often works with the writing group to develop scripts.

Members also enjoy regular sharings, theatre trips and a fun social environment to make new friends while gaining new skills.

For more information and how to join, visit www.primetheatre.co.uk or call 01793 614864

Donkeys are star attraction at Studley Grange Studley Grange Butterfly World & Farm Park have stepped in to provide a home for two abandoned donkeys.

Staff at Studley Grange offered to help out colleagues at The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon – and after taking a course in donkey care and preparing a suitable paddock, they have taken delivery of two new charges.

Matrix, a seven year old donkey was found in an animal shelter and Rabbit, another donkey, who is three, was found wandering the streets.

Staff at Studley Grange were keen to provide a home for these donkeys, but as education is an important part of the attraction’s remit, it was essential that staff understood why these donkeys needed re-homing www.studleygrange.co.uk

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Community News

Busy goings on in the cycle world On Two Wheels by Rob Derry of Swindon Cycle Campaign

It’s been a really busy summer for cycling across the UK. On the professional front, Chris Froome won the Tour de France and then became the first rider ever to win the Vuelta a Espagne since it moved to its late summer spot and only the third rider ever to win both of these grand tours in the same year.

He really is to be considered among cycling’s greatest now, talked about in the same breath as Hinault, Mercx, Indurain and Anquetil (but not that American fella whose name escapes me at the moment as he’s been erased from history!)

Nationally, Manchester has appointed the country’s first ever walking and cycling champion in the shape of Olympic champion, Tour de France yellow jersey wearer and all round talker-of-commonsense Chris Boardman.

Locally, Swindon Cycle Campaign has been running lots of rides in the area and we’ve seen some good take up and lots of interest.

The cycle orienteering event was well received despite the weather not being the best on the day.

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Watch our facebook page for more as we don’t stop over the winter.

Some people put their bikes away for the colder part of the year, but as the famous saying goes “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes!”

Behind the scenes, members of Swindon Cycle Campaign have been attending consultation events and responding to proposed building and road schemes to make sure that the voice of the cyclist is heard and their requirements are met when amendments to roads are made or new developments are proposed.

It is important to get the right infrastructure in from the start for new housing estates as that keeps the cost down.

So, on we go in to the autumn and winter. Yes, it gets a little cooler and it may rain a bit more frequently, but there is no better feeling on a crisp morning when you’ve donned the right level of clothing and are out in the fresh air on your bike. Happy cycling, and stay safe. fb/Swindon-Cycle-Campaign

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH with in association

association with association with inregeneration Future ofinSwindon's economic rests on lottery bid The bid for a new Museum and Art Gallery is now at full throttle with more than 3,000 active supporters backing the project as the deadline for the first submission for Heritage Lottery Funding draws closer.

Due to be submitted at the end of November, a successful bid will be the first step in transforming Swindon’s town centre.

However, the community continues to play a central role in the project and the submission, with plans continually growing and being adapted according to feedback received from the public.

Director of the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust, Rod Hebden, explained: “Getting out and about and meeting as many people as we can is a key priority for me. As well as attending events, such as Swindon and Wiltshire Pride, the

Swindon and Cricklade Railway Steam and Vintage weekend, and Swindon Open Studios, we’ve also been into businesses across the town. As I keep presenting our plans to different individuals and groups, people have been suggesting brilliant new ways that the new museum and art gallery can help people in Swindon.

“At the core of this project is our belief that Swindon’s rich heritage can inspire a brighter future for the town, using these lessons from its past.

The role of the new museum and gallery is to celebrate Swindon’s heritage and to inspire its future. Our ambition should be built on that great heritage, not constrained by the current town centre. It’s hard to think of another town where there is such a huge gap between the negative perceptions of the place and the reality of what it really has to offer. This clear gap shows the enormous potential for Swindon’s transformation. The first step is to create a leading futurefacing facility which presents Swindonians as the visionary people we know them to be. Then, most importantly, the building must become an open, democratic platform for Swindon’s communities to innovate and to address our own town’s needs, and seize the opportunities we have.

“Unfortunately, our town

in association with

centre ranks as one of the lowest in the country for urban green space.

Back in Brunel’s time the railway men knew the value of nature and green spaces, and the GWR park was a thriving part of their town.

Our roof-top gardens and the public realm in front of the building can help address this need for urban green space. Even better, we have already begun to explore whether TWIGS Community Gardens, the local mental health charity, could use our rooftop gardens for their therapeutic work, and whether they could use the museum café to support people returning to work full time.

That idea then grew further, when we

spoke with the Richard Jefferies Museum, and realised that we could work with them to design the gardens so that they told the story of the Swindonian nature writer, who was founding father of environmentalism in Britain.

“If we are successful, this is exactly the sort of partnership work we will be continuing to build with Swindon communities and organisations. The museum and art gallery project has huge potential for Swindon, and I am determined to involve Swindon people throughout its design.”

To keep up to date with the latest from the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust, visit www. swindonmuseum.org.uk or like their Facebook page www.facebook.com/ backthebidswindon.

The proposed design for Swindon's new museum and art gallery. Inset Rod Hebden, the man at the helm.

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Swindon Wide DRAMA & MUSICALS Sunday 1 October 8pm Jerry Sadowitz Comedian, Magician, Psychopath!

With his unique combination of comedy, absolute hatred and card tricks, every moment is guaranteed to make you feel better about yourself as he bangs on about some pish or other. Last week it was something about cutting up eyeballs for baby boxes? This week it could be about the situation in Sandi Toksvig. One thing’s for sure...

Whatever he says, it will be ripped off. Except the card tricks...You have to be bloody good to do them. £21 Swindon Arts Centre Tuesday 3 October 7.30pm Islands in the Stream - the music of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers Celebrating the Queen & King of country, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers…

Leave your 9 to 5 worries at the door and get ready for a night in the company of Country Music Royalty!

This thigh-slapping stage show brings together the beloved glamour and personality of Dolly, along with Kenny’s charisma and energy with hit after hit including: Jolene, Ruby, 9 to 5, Lucille, Here You Come Again, The Gambler, I Will Always Love You, Coward of the Country, plus the smash hit Islands in the Stream. £23 (£25.50) Wyvern Theatre

Wednesday 4 October 7.30pm Lulu Following on from her smash hit 2016 tour Lulu returns with her biggest tour yet!

There is one overriding influence in the life of this acclaimed singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, Grammy and Novello Award nominee, and that is, it has always been ‘All About the Music’.

Lulu delivers a show packed full of her hits, new songs and songs that have influenced and guided her throughout her incredible career. £38 (VIP seats £75) Wyvern Theatre

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WHAT’S ON S Thursday 5 October 7.30pm A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen “For me. For, for your own sake. For the children. You have no idea what this could do to us”.

Nora, a wife, mother and silly little spendthrift, has kept a secret from her husband, Torvald, for years now. As the truth is forced out into the open the cracks in their happy marriage begin to show.

Initially condemned as a profeminist work, Ibsen’s nineteenth century masterpiece A Doll's House has now been newly adapted for the stage by Simon Stephens and, with Resident Director, Anna Friend’s interpretation, is now presented in a way that is instantly relatable to a modern audience and highlights just how relevant the once controversial themes of the play still are today. £13 (conc £2 off) Swindon Arts Centre

Friday 6 October 8pm Jimmy Carr - The Best Of..

Jimmy is gathering a selection of his very best jokes along with brand new material for the ultimate comedy show.

A man who has devoted his life to crafting perfect jokes and has left a trail of laughter in his wake, Jimmy Carr’s new tour will distil everything we love to laugh at and be shocked by, into one incredible, unparalleled night of entertainment. Now all that experience is being put to good use - you can see all the greatest material from his extraordinary career in one show. £30 Swindon Oasis Leisure Centre Friday 6 October 7.30pm Samswara Tabla and Sitar Duo Samswara - Jon Sterckx (tabla) and Ricky Romain (sitar) have been thrilling and entertaining audiences throughout the UK since 2001. During this time they have developed a reputation amongst Indian music lovers nationally for their on stage rapport & spontaneous and playful musical dialogues. The many positive responses from audiences highlight their engaging and dynamic performances that begin with slow, meditative melodies unfolding into complex exciting rhythmical interplay. £15 Swindon Arts Centre

Swindon Wide

SWINDON 5 - 7 October 7.30pm Private Lives - Noel Coward London Classic Theatre present a major new touring production of Noël Coward’s sparkling comedy.

In Private Lives, strong passions and stronger personalities set the stage for a classic battle of the sexes.

Full of razor-sharp wit and quick-fire dialogue, Private Lives is Noël Coward’s most popular and enduring stage comedy. £19 Wyvern Theatre Saturday 7 October 8pm Luisa Omielan - Am I Right Ladies?

Comedy phenomenon Luisa Omielan is bringing her smash hit show Am I Right Ladies!? to Swindon.

Her first show What Would Beyonce Do?! was hailed as ‘one of the biggest stand up hits of the last decade’ (The Guardian) and was launched on BBC3 as a stand up special and this is the follow up! £16.50 Swindon Arts Centre Sunday 8 October7.30pm Shane Filan Love Always Hot off the back of announcing his new album Love Always, Shane Filan has announced his major indoor UK Tour – Love Always taking in some of the UK’s best loved venues, including The Wyvern Theatre on Sun 8 October.

Shane will be supported by Guy Sebastian. Australia’s first ever Idol winner in 2003, Guy’s decade and a half long career has seen 42 Platinum and three Gold certifications, and sold three million in combined sales with a string of arena tours. £30-52 Swindon Wyvern Theatre Sunday 8 October 8pm Jan Ravens Difficult Woman Jan Ravens (‘A consummate impressionist’, Times ), is set to delight audiences with her spot-on impressions and political stamp on the world as she takes to the road with her brand-new tour, mixing the current political climate with her own personal journey as a ‘Difficult Woman'. £16.50 Swindon Arts Centre 8pm Monday 9 October 7.30pm An Evening With Adam Henson Adam Henson is perhaps the best-known farmer in the UK, presenting his own section on BBC TV’s Countryfile to around 7 million viewers every Sunday evening. Join Adam as he shares stories about his farming life, his TV career together with his thoughts on British Agriculture. £23.50 Wyvern Theatre

Sunday 15 October 7.30pm Sofie Hagen Dead Baby Frog Sofie Hagen is unquestionably one of the most talked-about comics of the moment. A modern legend in her native Denmark, she burst onto the British scene by winning Best Newcomer at Edinburgh Festival 2015; her 2016 follow-up, ‘Shimmer Shatter’, was a second total sellout.

Foster’s Edinburgh Comedy Awards - Best Newcomer 2015 Chortle - Best Newcomer 2014 £13.50 Swindon Arts Centre

FILM Wednesday 4 October 7.45pm Swindon Film Society - Clash Set entirely in an 8m police truck, a number of detainees from different political and social backgrounds are brought together by their inevitable fate, during the turmoil that followed the ousting of former president Morsi from power.

For ticket prices and membership information visit the website: www. swindonfilm.org.uk Egypt | Drama | Cert.15 | 98 mins £9 Swindon Arts Centre Wednesday 18 October 7.45pm Swindon Film Society - The Ghost and Mrs Muir An exceptional showcase in celebration of our Society’s 70th anniversary!

A gentle romantic fantasy about a widow who moves into a reportedly haunted cottage on the English seaside.

USA | Comedy / Drama | 104 mins £9 Swindon Arts Centre VENUES Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square SN1 5BP. Tel: 01793 420649 The Platform, Faringdon Road, Swindon SN1 5BJ Phoenix Theatre, New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. Tel: 01793 732889 The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Tel: 01793 534238 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Tel: 07340 758497 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. Tel: 01793 763907 Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Email: shoebox@wrongshoes.co.uk Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 535713 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

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Swindon Wide

Restaurant review: Helen Browning's Chop House

By Claire Dukes After our Night of the Ocelot in August, the Postiive Media Group team needed a little bit of TLC and we knew Helen Browning’s Chop House would sort us out.

If you haven’t been to the Chop House, the poster shot from outside doesn’t look too dissimilar to something you’d see on the cover of Country Life.

From the moment you walk in the restaurant it’s rustic and homely, with a cosy amount of wooden furniture displayed around the room accompanied by charming farm-life pictures on the walls.

There was plenty of space Friday lunchtime, so we shuffled ourselves into a corner table which provided a view down Wood Street. There was also plenty of choice, so we sat fixated on the menu and proceeded to drool.

Whilst not making quick and snappy decisions, our wonderfully bubbly waitress insisted she bring over some cans of Crawford Press, assuring us that this would put

a hop back in our step. And, she was right. Both the rhubarb and apple spring water potions were incredibly refreshing.

From the moment I thought about lunch I knew I wanted (and needed) something slutty.

So I went for The Chop House Beef Burger, and it did its job beautifully.

Unlike most burger joints Helen had tapped into my need for something juicy and filling, but not so I was left feeling like a heart attack was about to call. The house burger was fresh tasting, not marinated in salt, and left my clothes without dreaded grease drips.

Ocelot editor, Jamie, went down a similar avenue and was oddly gracious when tucking into a generous helping of ribs. It was actually quite impressive to watch.

Jamie said: “They lived up to their name as ‘the best ribs in town’. Absolutely delicious with a wonderful bbq, tangy sauce. I’m still salivating thinking about them right now. A little bit of heaven.”

Ben however, our deputy editor, did a complete U turn and opted for one of Helen’s Superbowls.

Ben said: “One of the chop house’s constantly evolving super salads – which changes ingredients with season and availability.

“Having over indulged in some craft lager fuelled antics the previous evening and feeling a little weakened as a result, I felt the need to indulge in a bit of foodie self love.

“Served in a bowl, this colourful mix of (if I’m remembering correctly) butternut squash, lettuce, roasted peppers, beetroot, couscous, various scrummy seed things and a generous helping of shredded seasoned pork, was just what the doctor ordered.

“The whole myriad of wonderful grub was a total treat. I shall order again. And again.”

Needless to say, team Link was revived and ready for our day trip out around Swindon. Helen, you’re a life saver, thank you!

Baked potatoes with a cheesy kale filling Baking potatoes aren’t, as some people believe, a type – the name refers to the size.

Floury potatoes give the fluffiest insides when baked, but all varieties work for this comforting, low-effort meal.

Heat the oven to 190°C/Gas 5. Put the potatoes in a baking dish and prick them a few times with a sharp knife.

Rub the skins all over with a little olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.

Bake for 1–1½ hours, depending on size, until the insides are tender and 4 baking potatoes (250–300g each) the outsides crisp.

Meanwhile, boil the kale for 4 olive oil 2 good handfuls (about 50g) curly minutes in salted water. Refresh kale leaves, stripped from their in cold water, drain well, chop and stems set aside. When the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven 150g mature cheddar, grated and leave until just cool enough salt and black pepper

to handle. Slice off the tops (serve them with the potatoes), and use a teaspoon to scoop out most of the insides, being careful not to break the skin.

Put the flesh in a bowl and mash with the kale and three quarters of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon the mixture back into the skins, scatter over the remaining cheese and return to the oven for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbling. www.riverford.co.uk/recipes

Swindon's friendliest festival on the horizon

our own Stephen Daniels with his first collection.

THURSDAY 20:00: We have three resident poets: Daljit Nagra, Tania Herschman and Jacqui Saphra.

These are top quality poets and not to be missed.

FRIDAY 20:00: Nine Arches Press discovered three voices that have a great future in UK poetry. Be inspired.

SATURDAY 21:30 until late: Keith James will be introducing the Songs of Leonard Cohen. If you are a fan you have to be there.

SUNDAY 20:00 until late: We’ll be celebrating the power of Poets

Poetry column by Poetry Swindon’s Maurice Spillane

Swindon Poetry Festival is on from Thursday 5 to Sunday 9 October.

It’ll be big and embracing, and yet again the “friendliest” festival in Britain. This is hidden Swindon making its mark so please join us.

It’s a big programme so here are events I recommend if you’re new to poetry or haven’t heard a poem since school. I know that first step can be a bit daunting so when you

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arrive, ask for me and I will make sure you’re looked after: THURSDAY 10am “Poems Aloud” at Artsite, Number Nine Gallery, Theatre Square: We always get a good audience for this opening event. Bring along a few poems if you fancy joining in. Admission is free.

The following events are at Richard Jefferies Museum where we have a really big tent, all beautifully decked out.

THURSDAY 17:30: We’ve three new stars to UK poetry including

in Performance with several very good poets.

On Saturday and Sunday we have events during the day for children and several Open Mic sessions.

You can see the full programme at richardjefferies.org/poetry-swindon Two lines from “Look We have Coming to Dinner” by Daljit Nagra sum it up: we raise our charged glasses over unparasol’d tables East, babbling our lingoes, flecked by the chalk of Britannia!

Maurice Spillane www.poetryswindon.org

Swindon Wide

Let's back the bid - to showcase our town's amazing heritage The Swindon Heritage Magazine Column with Graham Carter Heritage is reaching a critical stage in Swindon.

We recently announced that after this year we will cease publishing our magazine, Swindon Heritage, which is the only one of its kind in Britain.

However, while the magazine is enjoying rising sales, the commitment of publishing it has become too much while the attitudes of those who make the decisions about our heritage and some of those we pay to look after it for us remain unchanged.

It is also disappointing to find that the magazine did not seem to have a role in the bid for a new museum and art gallery.

Nobody has ever actually asked us for our opinion about this project, but Link readers may be interested in how the editor of Swindon Heritage sees an issue that continues to divide opinions in the town.

The project's most obvious problem has been lack of engagement with the public, which even the trust set up to manage the project admitted was a failing

when it staged an event at New College in the spring, following the surprise resignation of the project’s director, Hadrian Elloryvan Dekker.

Trustees seemed at a loss to know how to address this, although the appointment of Rod Hebden-Leeder as Hadrian’s replacement has gone some way to achieving it.

Rod knows heritage and Swindon, and because he is also passionate about it, he was an excellent choice.

The problem with Rod is: there is only one of him. He is rather like a substitute brought on in the hope that he will somehow turn things around in the closing stages of the match, but it’s asking a lot.

Engagement with the public should have started years ago, but instead the project has had all the hallmarks of the way Swindon Borough Council approaches heritage, which is to come up with

its own plan and - if we are lucky - eventually turn to the public and say: “Here’s what we are going to do; you do like it, don’t you?”

That is asking for negative responses, and no way to get the public on your side.

Neither has it helped that the trust painted itself into a corner by presenting the project as an art gallery first and a museum as a poor second.

As it stands, it’s still not clear, even to me, what there is in the museum collection for the public to get excited about or to spend so much money on, apart from a mummy and a stuffed crocodile.

But possibly the biggest problem with the project is that it has stood in splendid isolation until now.

What should be the flagship of a heritage strategy addressing various issues in Swindon - from the festering decay of the

Mechanics’ Institute to a vandal’s charter for turning the Health Hydro into flats - has, instead, always seemed to suggest the rest of Swindon’s heritage is somehow unconnected or even irrelevant.

We can’t turn back the clock and undo mistakes, but we can learn from them, and it’s not too late for the project to be a catalyst for something bigger.

Indeed, if ever Swindon’s heritage needed a holy grail it is now, so it’s time for all of us to put our misgivings about the project behind us and unite behind it.

When it comes to deciding whether it is a deserving cause, the need for a new museum should be judged not on how good or bad the bid for it has been presented, but rather how rich our heritage is and how proud it makes us.

We should know. In the five years that we have been publishing Swindon Heritage, no other town or city thought their heritage was worth making so much of a song and dance about.

So let’s get behind the bid because if Swindon’s magnificent heritage doesn’t deserve a proper showcase, whose does?

swindonlink.com nOctober 2017

31

Swindon Wide

Marking 20 years since Swindon Link's first foray onto the net 2017 is a year of anniversaries for Link. The March edition reported the thirtieth anniversary of the magazine as a business, launched to coincide with the official opening of Greendown Community School by Princess Anne.

On 11 October it will be twenty

The tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales on 31 August 1997 was covered extensively. Twenty years ago the people of Swindon were invited by the mayor Maurice Fanning to share their memories in a book of remembrance at the Civic Offices.

32

swindonlink.com n October 2017

years since www.swindonlink.com went online. Swindon's town crier the late Fred Ferris announced the event in the traditional way: "Oyez, oyez, oyez, I am called upon to announce the launch of a new world wide web site for Swindon on the internet."

The mayor and mayoress Maurice and Sheila Fanning had their picture taken on one of the first affordable digital cameras which was uploaded before they clicked a button to make the site live.

Since then the digital space has expanded to dominate all forms of communication and commerce.

I certainly didn't understand the impact it would have, delivering positive information to all, as well as being exploited for horror and hate.

In 1997 I thought the website would just be another way to access stories from the magazine and that the paper product would continue to be central to the business.

Although traditional newspapers have seen their readership greatly diminish and their business model shaken to the core, Link magazine has been sustained through disruptive times.

The reason is that the publication

'Ready to surf' in October 1997, the mayor and mayoress Maurice and Sheila Fanning and town crier Fred Ferris, with web designers, from left, Mark Yerbury-Hodgeson and Paul Dunn and former Link publisher Roger Ogle

has always been free to every home in its target distribution area.

And over many years it infiltrated the community to establish a close rapport with organisations, local groups and schools, building a relationship that readers trust.

That, in turn, encouraged advertisers to remain with the brand.

It's a responsibility to help businesses grow, The Link being the

only advertising vehicle for some businesses.

Now, a third edition covering the east side of Swindon will soon be launched, following the second covering Old Town and Wichelstowe which started in 2016.

Back in 1997, success on paper

was not immediately replicated online because the possibilities of what could be achieved were not fully understood.

Swindon Wide

Community gathers in colourful celebration of Ganesha's birthday Swindon’s Hindu community took part in a colourful three-day celebration to honour the elephantheaded God Ganesha’s birthday.

The Ganesh Utsav festival, at the Swindon Hindu Temple and Cultural Centre, was first held in Swindon last year and was attended by more than 2,500 people.

Ganesha is worshipped as the God of wisdom and is seen as an obstacle remover. He is honoured at the start of every ritual and ceremony as he’s considered the God of beginnings.

This year’s event began with the installation of an eco-friendly idol imported from India after a procession with the fusion of Maharashtra Mandal London’s Dhol Beats UK and Swindon Temple Dhol team. Hundreds of people of all ages and faiths danced to the tune of Indian Dhol and celebrated the welcome of God Ganesha.

Women and girls dressed in brightly coloured sarees, with men and boys wearing kurtas and wearing saffron caps.

Observations included the chanting of Vedic hymns and Hindu texts such as Ganapati Upanishad, prayers and fasting.

The second day of the festival was even more colourful, with an Indian Food Festival in the morning attended by more than 1,000 people and featured more than 25 Indian food delicacies from all the corners of India like: Maharashtra, Punjab, Gujarat, Tamilnadu, Bihar, New Delhi, Orissa, West Bengal and Rajasthan with donations from sales going towards the temple’s refurbishment.

There was also a cultural event in the evening with breathtaking dance performances by children and a spellbinding flute performance.

The festival ended with immersion of the idol into water before it was then used to plant a tree to signify nature as a form of God. The festival is celebrated each year in August or September in most parts of India, United Kingdom and in many countries across the world.

Mr Pradeep Bhardwaj, chairman of Swindon Hindu Temple Trust, congratulated Mr Ashish Channawar and Ganesh Utsav team on another year of majestic celebration.

More information about Swindon Hindu Temple at www.

SwindonHinduTemple.com

swindonlink.com nOctober 2017

33

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The Great Western Brick (GWB) Show at Steam Museum

By Claire Dukes Just to clarify, as I definitely miscommunicated this to our deputy editor, this is not some sort of brick-laying convention, it’s a lego show!

You can bring your children along if you insist, but lego-loving adults of all ages have been packing out the show for the last 15 years and will have another opportunity to do so October 7 to October 8.

The show has been increasingly growing in popularity, and every year there is always a new exhibition. At the moment the latest surprise is being kept under wraps until closer to the event, but to give you an idea last year hosted GWB show’s first Robot Wars.

This definitely isn’t the amateur level of lego-making I constructed as a child, the GWB show has become renowned for its impressive displays of models from books, TV and

films made by the Brickish Association.

Other models include intricate designs of railways, spacecrafts, famous landmarks and much more.

Also attending the event will be Fairy Bricks, a charity who’s aim is to provide lego for children in hospital. As always, the charity will be bringing along their own mosaic design.

For further updates visit GWB’s Facebook page: @GreatWesternBrickShow

Swindon Wide

Who ate all the pies?

By Claire Dukes The Sun pub in Lydiard hosted its first Pie Fest over the August Bank Holiday, and I’m happy to report it (and a cider or four) went down a treat.

I’m a bit awful really. I don’t live too far away from The Sun, but I rarely frequent it and don’t have many excuses.

But apparently (and unsurprisingly), all it takes to get me out on a Saturday evening is ‘Pie Fest’ and ‘tent full of cider’ and I’m signing up as a regular.

The pie fest kicked off at 1pm, but being more of a night owl, and a fool, I rocked up around 6pm. Naturally by this point many of the headlining pies were crossed off the menu, and come Sunday pie-hard fans forced The Sun to offer burger substitutes as they were wiped clean of many.

Luckily I’m not overly fussy, and there was a huge variety of pies to peruse. So, I did what any sane person does when food is at stake, tag teamed my dad and went halves to cover more ground.

The Sun’s Landlord, Howard Taylor, said: “I thought it’d be quieter! It went really well. I mean, everyone loves a pie, right?”

The Sun are used to these large-scale feasts having hosted Hog Roasts, weekly ‘Spice Nites’, and eight ‘Ale, Sausage ‘N’ Cider’ festivals. Needless to say the pub was well equipped with dozens of outdoor benches, and an extended marquee that housed the barrels of real ales and cider.

Headliners of the marquee included Ramsbury Brewery, Moles Brewery, Three Castles Brewery, and Plaine Ales from Salisbury.

Following its debut triumph, I’m hoping that this will be one of many Pie Fests to be seen and enjoyed at The Sun. If you agree, let us know!

swindonlink.com nOctober 2017

35

Swindon Wide

UK Space Agency's Libby Jackson is a rising star programme for Tim’s mission.

She now manages the Human Spaceflight and Microgravity Programme.

Libby is an increasingly familiar face on TV, most recently appearing as an expert interviewer on the BBC2 programme Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes? - having previously shared her expertise on Stargazing Live, Blue Peter and The Big Think.

She agreed to clear some space in her diary to talk to the Link Magazine about her stratospheric career trajectory, her passion for space travel and what the future might hold.

“I have always been fascinated by space, ever since I was a child. I was born in 1981 - three weeks before the first space shuttle launch - but the thing that really caught my imagination as a youngster was the Apollo programme. I would spend hours finding out everything I could about the race to the moon.”

Libby, who grew up in Bromley, Kent, said: “I devoured everything to do with space and I even went to space camp as a child. I was lucky to have supportive parents and I went to a great school.

“No one has ever said to me that I can’t do something. I was always told by my parents and teachers that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”

It was this self belief that led Libby to secure a key opportunity

LIbby Jackson of the UK Space Agency

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swindonlink.com n October 2017

that shaped her future career.

“It has always been my dream to work in human spaceflight and when I was 17 I decided to write to NASA to see if I could visit. I didn’t tell my parents at the time - I suppose it is the sort of thing you do as a naive teenager, but much to my amazement, I got a reply.”

Libby spent two weeks at Nasa’s Johnson Space Centre in Houston, Texas where she had the opportunity to shadow a flight director and gain first hand experience of working at the cutting edge of human spaceflight.

“It was a pivotal moment for me - I’ve always loved everything to do with spaceflight but it was this placement that convinced me that I wanted to become a flight director and to work towards that goal; I never wanted to be an astronaut it was this side of things that really ignited my passion.”

After graduating with a BSc in Physics from Imperial College and a Master’s degree in Astronautics and Space Engineering from Cranfield University, Libby worked for Airbus Defence and Space in satellite operations.

And in 2007, Libby headed to Munich and the Columbus Control Centre, working as a flight controller and as an instructor of astronauts and other flight controllers. In 2010 she joined the team of Columbus Flight Directors, leading flight operations in Europe’s Mission Control and looking after the crew and science experiments in the Columbus module.

With increasing use of robotic technology, will we always need humans in space?

“Robots are great and

,

Tucked away in a nondescript office block in North Star Avenue, Swindon is the unlikely headquarters of the UK Space Agency - no glittering silver structure, rather a somewhat uninspiring brick faced office building.

However, behind this modest facade is a Government department, which juggles an annual budget of £350 million and employs about 130 people, drawn from a range of scientific, communications and engineering backgrounds. Together the organisation is responsible for making key strategic decisions about the future of the country's civil space programme - from human spaceflight to satellite technology.

Among the talented people employed at the agency is Libby Jackson, who joined in 2014 as part of the team that supported UK astronaut Tim Peake’s mission to the International Space Station and acted as a spokesperson for the mission. She also managed the UK Space Agency education and outreach

can do many things faster and more efficiently than humans.

But there are some areas where humans are irreplaceable. A well trained human can make informed decisions which draw together their experience and training in a way that computers are unable to match. I think that for the foreseeable future humans will continue to travel into space.”

Libby is keen to support equal opportunities in science and engineering and has recently written A Galaxy of Her Own Amazing Stories of Women in Space which will be published by Penguin books on November 16. The publication examines 50 stories of inspirational women, from scientists to astronauts, who have played a key role in the development of human space flight - from Ada Lovelace in the nineteenth century to the women behind the Apollo missions.

“In this book, you will see that the people who do well in this field are those who don’t let anyone define them, who have done much to change the culture. Here in the Space Agency, we have an even split of men and women - people are employed on the basis of their skills and ability.”

The Agency space science programme supports world-class science in the UK, keeping the UK at the forefront of discovery, and providing economic benefits in stimulating technological innovation that supports industrial growth.

The UK Space Agency space science programme supported 19 space missions in 2016-17, including missions in the design, build and operational phases, and also post-operation data calibration, validation and archiving.

I have always been fascinated by space... ever since I was a child.

,

Swindon Wide

Eye catching Nissan Micra shakes off dull image with design revamp Five generations of the Nissan Micra have shown the car to be a worthy, if dull contender in the small car stakes. It sold very well and was sound and reliable but couldn’t really shake of that fuddy-duddy image. That’s all changed now.

Ignore the rather silly ‘accomplice’ TV ad and instead concentrate on the many good points of this very attractive car.

Visual Appeal It is a new design from the ground up. The Nissan Micra has been given a fresh look with crisp, energetic contours. Unlike earlier models the sporty demeanor gives it appeal across all age groups. At last, young people can buy this car without looking like they have borrowed it from their Nan. Real attention to detail has been paid to the design. With headlamps, grille and the sweeping window treatment, the Micra certainly stands out in a crowd. In a sector packed with fine choices the floating roof and glass-covered rear pillars of the Nissan acknowledge the latest design trends, with a coupé styling provided by concealed

The new zingy Micra leaves its fuddy-duddy cousin for dust

rear door handles. It’s a goodlooking motor.

Interior Appeal The list of standard equipment is impressive and includes a bright, seven-inch screen, Siri voice-control via Apple CarPlay, and a powerful Bose stereo system optional on certain models. Top models in the Micra range start to get a tad expensive but come loaded with kit and still undercut equivalent competitors on price. For safety, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and autodipping headlights are standard across the range. The front seats

are firm but very comfy indeed although the sloping roof line will affect taller folk in the back. Overall, the highly customisable, cheerful and well-fitted interior is a big hit.

Driving Appeal Right now, showroom customers can choose from a turbocharged 0.9L petrol engine or a 1.5L diesel as found in our test car in which economy proved to be very good delivering in excess of 60mpg on a long run.

Both are driven through a crisp, five-speed manual gearbox. A cheaper, naturally aspirated 1.0L petrol will follow later as will a CVT

auto. For most users, the lively 0.9L turbo would be the right choice, I’d say.

In order to keep the Micra on an even keel in corners, the suspension felt firm to some. Personally I liked it as it helped to deliver a responsive, fun drive.

True, on rougher roads (that’s most of them) occupants were jiggled about a bit. It’s a matter of personal preference as there are perhaps more comfortable offerings elsewhere although the Micra has most of them beaten on price. The Nissan Micra is a real star.

Geoff Maxted www.drivewrite.co.uk

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Swindon Wide

To the manor reborn The National Trust has opened a room in Avebury Manor, that until now has been inaccessible to visitors. The refurbishment of the Alexander Keiller drawing office is a new and exciting ongoing project, to bring another aspect of Avebury’s history to life.

Alexander Keiller is well known for his extensive archaeological work at Avebury, and was paramount in discovering and reerecting much of the stone circle and avenue, as well as groundbreaking work at a nearby Windmill Hill.

He excavated in Avebury and the surrounding area between 1925 and 1939 and owned Avebury Manor from 1937 to 1955.

Keiller’s drawing office is where

38

swindonlink.com n October 2017

he undertook much of his postexcavation work, working on plans and sections, archaeological drawings and writing reports.

Amelia Bryan the House Manager at Avebury Manor, who is overseeing the work, says: “We’ve known for some time that this room was Keiller’s drawing office, the workroom for his archaeological work – but it has not been possible to open it to the public until now. Now it’s our task to bring this room back to life again, so that people can see another part of the history of the house.”

The room will also give the National Trust the opportunity to display copies of some of the excavation archives for people to see.

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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

Tel: 01793 325685

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

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PLANS DRAWN

M & J Upholsterers

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

From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given.

7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

RE-UPHOLSTERY & ALL SUITE REPAIRS Affordable luxury fitted wardrobes, measured, manufactured and fitted from only £495 Made to measure, floor to ceiling, a wide range of traditional and modern designs in various finishes For a free brochure and no obligation quote Call 01793 827188 www.mryprojects.co.uk

Amistad facilities management ✦ House Cleaning ✦ Carpet Cleaning ✦ After Party Cleaning ✦ Commercial/ Office Spaces ✦ Move In/Out Cleaning ✦ Property Maintenance

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01793 987482

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Re-upholstery of 3 piece suites, dining & fireside chairs etc.

Also new seat interiors Seams - Zips - Springs

LEATHER CLEANING Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

Call 07709 453949 emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

•Carpet Cleaning •Oven Cleaning •Domestic Cleaning Rbs Home Help Services www.rbshomehelpservices .co.uk Tel: 0800 288 8711 info@rbshomehelpservices .co.uk

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member

Independently owned & operated To arrange for a free estimate call

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SERVICE SECTOR

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YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL SERVICES

THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £16 per house.

Around £26 for a 4 bed.

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans.

One-off Spring cleans Ironing £17 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Doctor Glass repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

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For all window repairs

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• Cracked,

broken or misted double glazed windows

• Locks • Hinges Call 07516 649718

● Repairs to all upvc doors and windows ● 24 hr boarding up service and lock change ● Hinges, Window/Door Locks and Handles etc.

Call Jamie for free advice and quote on all aspects of upvc.

We will beat any like for like quotation

01793 940089 or 07526 647673

upvc-swindon@hotmail.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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Promote what you do on paper and online @ swindonlink.com Call Sue Roberts to discuss our combined advertising packages

01793 781502 swindonlink.com n October 2017

45

Politics

Talking politics Last month, I ran the Swindon Half Marathon alongside my colleague, Alex Williams to raise money for a local charity which I have worked closely with for a number of years, Dressability.

The charity was formed in 1998 and is one of only two independent clothing services in the UK which caters specifically for the needs of disabled people.

Dressability works with other local voluntary organisations, disability support groups, social workers and healthcare professionals to provide clothing for people with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and the elderly. You can find out more by visiting their website www.dressability.org.uk Despite the persistent rain and

wind, we were able to run the race in just over 2 hours and 20 minutes – a new personal best!

I would personally like to thank everybody who braved the conditions and came out and not only made the atmosphere amazing, but kept me going by providing me with green jelly babies along the 13.1 mile course.

The Half Marathon was great for our town, the parts of Swindon we know and love. But equally as important, those running the Half Marathon helped to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

I recently attended a meeting with North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and Bradley Simmons,

Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr David Renard Many readers will be aware that some utility companies are either putting up or about to put up electricity prices by 12.5% and we will all have noticed that the nights are arriving earlier and the temperatures dropping.

That’s why this is the perfect time for the council to launch its autumn drive to help residents look at switching opportunities and drive down their bills using Swindon Energy Matters.

Energy bills are a challenge for everyone, but some people may not realise that switching energy supplier could save up to £616 a year, with the chance of getting cashback of up £30 for an on-line switch, or £22 for switching via the helpline.

The Swindon Energy Matters campaign has been developed by our energy efficiency team and Swindon Money Matters to help people seize control of their energy bills, whether they have a credit or pre-payment (Pay As You Go) meter.

We know that plenty of Swindon residents are paying more for their energy than necessary because they don't switch energy provider. Out of the 10,500 or so council homes, a high proportion of these Council tenants are on ‘pay as you go’ tariffs.

This means they could be spending more on their energy than they really need to and it's likely the same applies to other Swindon residents.

There are deals out there for ‘pay as you go’ customers, and even better savings could be achieved by changing to a credit meter.

The campaign is focussed on all Swindon residents, whether they are in council accommodation, own their own homes or rent privately, and we want to really help households get better value for their fuel.

Visit www.swindon.gov.uk/ swindonenergymatters or call 0800 093 3218.

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Regional Director at OFSTED. You may recall that Mr Simmons was the author of the Ofsted letter that was highly critical of education in Swindon last year.

The need for there to be a process in Swindon by which local educational providers can be challenged and specific improvements proposed was clear and it was welcome that the Lead Member for Children’s Services and School Attainment, Coun Fionula Foley, secured £600,000 in funding over the next three years from the Council to set up the Swindon Challenge Boards, which bring together all key stakeholders in education including the Regional Schools’

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson As I write this, summer is drawing to a close and I reflect on some of the highlights that the past summer months have presented.

Firstly, I have been happy to continue my support for the National Citizen Service programme where young people aged 15-17 take part in a four week course over the summer holidays. The scheme aims to teach essential life skills and works to foster links and understanding between young people from different backgrounds.

One of the key focuses is on charity and community work, which is where I usually offer advice to the students and support their various events.

This year I particularly enjoyed an event at the Redhouse Community Centre where the students had organised a fun-filled evening with a cake sale, raffle and live entertainment in aid of the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, a fantastic cause which provides emotional and practical support to families who have a child with a life threatening or terminal illness. It’s great to see young people getting so enthused about charity work and I will continue to support the principle of NCS. Another annual highlight for me is the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group’s completion of the Salamander Project. The project is a five day long course in which the participants work with local firefighters, police officers and paramedics to develop their self-esteem, build skills and have fun.

They work as a team and learn firefighting skills such as abseiling, ladder climbing, search & rescue, first aid, road traffic collision, rescue skills, water rescue, and how to use real operational equipment.

I’m not supposed to have favourite visits, but seeing the youngsters from the Down’s Syndrome Group transforming into members of the emergency services and enjoying every minute of it, is certainly something I look forward to every year. If you do want to keep updated with the work that I do as your local MP and what I am up to, please subscribe to my monthly e-newsletter via my website: www. justintomlinson.com.

Commissioner, headteachers, the teaching schools, governors, local businesses and senior council leaders with the aim of improving educational outcomes in all our schools. Ofsted also has an observer on the board.

I was pleased to learn that the provisional KS2 results in Swindon show a high improvement rate.

Reading, writing, and maths have improved by 15 per cent, whilst we are still awaiting provisional results for phonics.

A good start has been made, however, there is further work to be done, particularly in our secondary schools. I will continue to regularly visit schools here in South Swindon and support the work of the Challenge Boards.

Cllr Steve Allsopp, Swindon Labour Group Deputy Leader Recently the responsiveness of police to local crimes has come under a great deal of scrutiny.

Some residents have said the police have asked victims of crime to actually investigate criminality against them and others have said the police simply won’t investigate some crimes. This feedback from residents has come alongside a 9% increase in recorded crime across Swindon and Wiltshire in the 12 months up to March 2017. In particular there have been spikes in burglary and vehicle crime. This compares with a national trend of reductions in crime over the previous two decades.

I appreciate Wiltshire Police are doing all they can to reduce crimes in the town (nationally there has been a reduction of 20,000 police officers since 2010), but it is clear that government cutbacks have left the police force without the necessary resources to tackle the scale of the crime in the town.

Some people who support the government have chosen to defend the government’s cuts to the police. However, despite our political differences, I choose to support the Conservative Police & Crime Commissioner, Angus Macpherson, who has called on more police investment. This is why Labour proposed in the General Election to reverse this trend of police budget cuts and invest enough in the police to afford 10,000 new police officers.

Such an increase would have had a significant impact on the police’s presence on our streets. For residents concerned about the lack of police presence on our streets to prevent crime, I would suggest writing to our two MPs to lobby for more investment in our police force. Labour locally stands ready to put aside party differences and support our two Conservative MPs in this endeavour in order to achieve the best outcome for Swindon.

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