North West Swindon Link October 2022

An iconic figure who will be sadly missed across the Swindon borough

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

The sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II has hit the town of Swindon hard.

As I'm writing this we are a few days into the 17 days of mourning that have been announced by Buckingham Palace and a lot of people are still coming to terms with her death.

Whatever your views on the monarchy it is definitely an end of an era as she had been front and centre of British life for most people's lives.

As Great Britain's longest serving monarch, reigning over 70 years, she was the embodiment of what it means to be British, carrying her kind and caring demeanor wherever she went across the globe.

During her reign she visited Swindon five times and every time the crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of Her Majesty as she went around the town shaking hands and talking to its residents.

At the age of 96, The Queen fulfilled her duties to her country to the very end, even greeting Britain's newest Prime Minister at Balmoral only two days before her death.

The impact of her death

is being felt across the world and millions of people will have been deeply affected.

For most of us, as a country and as a town, we have not had to deal with such an event before as she had been such a big part of all of our lives.

There's no set way to how people mourn and people will be coming to terms with her passing in lots of different ways.

We can only feel deep sadness for what her family is going through and pay our respects how we can.

The Borough of Swindon will miss her dearly but also remember what she meant to us and how she always acted with calm dignity in every situation, something that we can all learn from.

We will miss you Ma'am. You were a rock in sometimes very uncertain waters for this country.

You have now left us in the capable hands of King Charles III who will be doing all he can to live up to your memory. Rest in peace.

as a podcast on www.swindon1055.com

Tears and tributes for Her Majesty the Queen

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

Swindon people were among the many millions worldwide who were plunged into grief when the death of Her Majesty the Queen was announced.

Her Majesty, who was 96 and had served dutifully as Sovereign for seven decades, passed peacefully at her beloved Balmoral during the afternoon of 8 September.

At Swindon's Civic Offices, the flags were lowered to halfmast as a mark of respect, and a book of condolence was opened on the council’s website.

Over the following days, the authority issued details of other condolence books and tribute locations.

Mayor of Swindon Cllr Abdul Amin said: “It is with great sadness that we hear of the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in British history.

“The Queen accomplished many things during her reign and never faltered in her commitment to the people of this country and the Commonwealth. She saw many changes throughout her lifetime for which she will always be remembered.

“On behalf of the residents of Swindon I convey our deepest sympathy to the Royal Family at this very sad time.”

Cllr David Renard, the Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “It is incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty served our country with great dignity and the longevity of her reign speaks for itself. The love and respect felt by the people of this country are an honour to her lifetime of commitment to us all.

“On behalf of everyone in Swindon, I would like to pass on our condolences to the Royal Family at this difficult time."

Wiltshire Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “Everyone

at Wiltshire Police is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022.

“All of my officers, staff and volunteers send our deepest condolences to The Royal Family at this time.

“We will remember her as a guiding light for us all throughout times of prosperity

Tomlinson said: "The nation's heart is broken.

"You have been a constant, dedicated and dutiful example for us all. We all feel a very personal loss and this is very sad news. RIP Ma’am."

Among Swindon people, memories were stirred of visits by Her Majesty which began before she assumed the role she would perform with

monarch's visit was the highlight of the commemoration.

Her official duties included opening the Garden of Remembrance in Queen's Park and the new playing fields in Moredon.

Throughout the visit, cheering crowds greeted Her Royal Highness - as she then was - and the audience for the ceremony at Queen's Park included loved ones of those who had given their lives for their country.

By the time of her next visit, in July of 1954, Her Majesty was in the third year of her long reign. Arriving by train, she was driven to Wroughton Airfield to present the Royal Welch Fusiliers with new colours.

and also through times of uncertainty and challenge."

South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland said: "Queen Elizabeth II dedicated her long and remarkable life to public service. She was loved and admired across my South Swindon constituency, Wales, the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the World.

"Our deepest condolences to His Majesty The King and to the Royal Family."

North Swindon MP Justin

steadfast dedication.

The late Queen was just 24 years old when she made her first official visit to the town.

At the time of that visit, on 15 November, 1950, she was Princess Elizabeth. Her 70year reign as Queen would not begin until February of 1952, on the death of her father, King George VI.

1950 was the year in which Swindon marked a half century of being officially recognised as a borough, and the future

As with her visit in 1950, the streets along which her car passed were lined by cheering crowds. It would be 17 years before Her Majesty next visited Swindon. In 1971, she and her husband, Prince Philip, made an official visit to open the new Wyvern Theatre.

The next visit was in November of 1997, when her duties included appearances at Wharf Green, the Brunel Plaza and Gorse Hill Infants School, and in October of the following year she was in Swindon once more to open Motorola's new Groundwell plant.

(All images of Her Majesty by Calyx Pictures)

Her Majesty, pictured here on a walkabout during her 1997 visit to Swindon, always made time to greet her subjects

Opening a new nursery at Gorse Hill Infants School in 1997

The Eco Briefing

Take the first step to tackle climate change

People across Swindon are getting behind Swindon Borough Council’s ‘Be the Change’ campaign by making lifestyle changes to live more sustainably and play their part to address the climate crisis.

Change can begin with the everyday choices we make –big or small. Individual efforts to tackle climate change are every bit as important as political action, and we can each take responsibility for doing what we can to rethink our day-to-day behaviour and the choices we make.

So where to start?

Try the MyBalance app MyBalance is a new app available for your phone, which will help you measure, reduce and offset your carbon footprint. You can download the app for free via your usual app store, answer a few questions and then you’ll receive tailored tips and

information to help you lower your carbon footprint and start making a difference.

Be inspired by Sustainable(ish)

Jen Gale is a mum from Wiltshire, who has built an online community called Sustainable(ish), helping normal people make small tweaks to their lives to live more sustainably in a realistic, maintainable way.

If you want to start making a difference, but aren’t sure where to start, then the Sustainable(ish) website, Facebook page, or either of her books, are probably a good place to start – covering everything from top 10 food waste tips to a beginner’s guide to compost. Just search Sustainanable(ish) on Facebook or Google.

Visit the Be the Change webpages

These are just two resources

you can use to help you begin living more sustainably. There are lots of changes you can make to protect the environment, while saving yourself some money too – for example by reducing your

energy use or by leaving the car at home.

Visit the Be the Change webpages for more tools, tips and resources to help you on your way: www.swindon.gov. uk/bethechange

Swindon families needed to help test new Christmas elf app

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

Tizzy the elf, a smartphone app created by Swindonians Ben and his dad Keith, launched last Christmas with the support of local parents and kids.

Now the Tizzy team are calling for more help in testing the updated app before they make the final changes before Christmas.

Tizzy the elf is a brand-new elf creation, born in Swindon. Last year, parents and kids helped test the smartphone app called Tizzy AR, as it uses a smartphone camera to place Tizzy in a room - AR stands for augmented reality.

The app creators say there are videos on Instagram and YouTube of children playing with Tizzy, for members of the public to take a look at.

Kids can watch Tizzy arrive from the North Pole, make Tizzy dance and take an ‘Elfie

Selfie’ to share with friends and family.

The Tizzy team say that there is also now a secret new feature which needs to be tested before it goes live.

Keith said: “Helping to test is really important as everyone has different phones, making it impossible to be sure it works for everyone.

"We want Tizzy to be the best experience for as many kids as possible, so we need your help!”

Swindon families can help by making sure the app works on their phones, and by giving feedback regarding the features they like the best.

Everyone that helps the team will receive a £10 amazon voucher.

If you are a parent of a four to seven-year-old and have a smartphone, you can help by going to facebook.com/ tizzytheelf and signing up or by going straight to tizzytheelf. app/Swindon.

Keith (left) and Ben with Tizzy the elf

Fleming Way closed to all traffic for major regeneration project

A key town centre road has closed to pave the way for major redevelopment.

Over the next three years, Swindon Borough Council will lead a £100m programme of investment in projects to upgrade transport links, the public realm and heritage assets as well as bringing to life the 20-acre regeneration site next to Zurich’s new offices.

The project will include a new bus interchange and improved cycling routes.

Highworth Warneford GCSE excellence

Staff at Highworth Warneford School have praised their GCSE students following an impressive results showing.

Successful pupils included Bo Yeates (nine Grade 9s, a Grade 8 and an 'A' at AS Mathematics), Heather Patton (seven Grade 9s, two Grade 8s and a Distinction Star) and Thomas Whittaker (six Grade 9s, three Grade 8s and a Distinction Star).

Headteacher Andy Steele praised students for their work amid the challenges presented by the covid pandemic and lockdowns.

Launch of new GWH specialist centre

Swindon's Great Western Hospital has launched its first care co-ordination centre.

The new centre aims to physically integrate colleagues from across the GWH NHS Foundation Trust's whole health and care system, meaning it will help to better coordinate its patients’ care from the moment they dial 111 or 999, or as they physically enter the hospital.

Personnel at the centre include clinical staff, therapists, social care workers, mental health care professionals and representatives of the voluntary services and transport staff.

Look out for National Adoption Week

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

This year’s National Adoption Week will run from 17 to 23 October.

During the week you will hear stories from those affected by adoption, and discover more about what it means to adopt –and to be adopted - today.

In the meantime, why not check out your local regional adoption agency? Since 2017, adoption services in Swindon have been provided by Adopt Thames Valley (ATV), a shared service across seven local authorities.

Caroline, a team manager with ATV, is eager to make it clear that adoption is a viable option for a wide variety of people.

She said: “Children come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and we are keen to reach out to prospective adopters who are able to provide a safe, stable and loving environment

for a child.

“We invite people from all walks of life to adoptincluding single adopters, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from all cultures and backgrounds.”

As part of the six-month assessment process prospective adopters attend a three-day adoption preparation course and work closely with an experienced social worker who will help them to agree the type of child who would suit

them and identify a potential match.

Once matched with a child, the support doesn’t end there. ATV has a dedicated Permanence Support team who are there to provide advice should it be needed.

The service includes a helpline, access to therapeutic support, training and social events.

To find out more, call 0800 731 0171 or visit the Adopt Thames Valley websiteadoptthamesvalley.co.uk

A message from Swindon Accident Solicitors

Unfortunately, some accidents can cause extremely serious injuries and have a lasting impact on both the injured person and their family.

This may be a head/ brain injury, a spinal cord injury, amputation or other catastrophic injury.

Every case is different and we always provide individual attention to our clients and the challenges that their claims bring.

Serious injuries can affect your life in relatively modest ways, but they can also be debilitating and affect your education, ability to work or motor functions.

The injury may also present itself more subtly, affecting things like memory and even personality.

You may find that life at home has suffered for the worst and you are struggling with day to day activities - things which you took for granted before your accident.

All of these problems can be challenging to overcome and you need to make sure that you are helped by experienced legal experts who understand what you are going through.

When choosing who should help with your claim it is important that you obtain advice from experienced solicitors.

Your solicitors should understand the availability of locally sourced experts who will be able to support you in the months and years ahead.

You may need specialist help with rehabilitation, specialised housing or home adaptations, benefits, transportation or nursing care.

Whatever your needs, we are here to help and get you back on the road to recovery.

We have a wealth of experience of helping people in Swindon successfully claim for serious injury.

Why choose Swindon Accident Solicitors?

- Proven results with over a 95% success rate.

- Friendly Advice. You deserve expert professional advice from approachable solicitors who understand how stressful compensation cases can be.

- Trusted local name. The experienced solicitors in our team in Swindon have over 25 years' experience fighting for clients in Swindon.

- Satisfied Clients. Reassuringly our clients recommend us personally to their friends and family. Most of our work comes through personal recommendations.

Looking after your claim, looking after you.

Swindon Accident Solicitors have the skills and legal expertise to assess your claim and take you through the claims process.

The first interview is always free so don’t delay, call Robert or Cristina today on 01793 425595 or email robert@ swindon-accident-services.co.uk

Prospect Hospice charity cafe reopens for Swindon community

After closing due to the pandemic, Prospect Hospice is now ready to open the 'Heart of Hospice' cafe to members of the Swindon public.

The café reopened to the public on Wednesday 14 September, and is serving a variety of hot and cold meals and drinks. The cafe is open from Monday to Saturday between 11.30am and 2pm.

When lockdown was enforced in March 2020, the hospice closed its doors to the public to ensure it could protect their staff and patients while continuing to deliver end of life care both in the hospice and in people’s homes.

Catering manager Carl Golding said: “We know the Heart of the Hospice café was a big hit with the community looking for a good home cooked meal, giving them the opportunity to support a local charity at the same time.

“I’m delighted that we are ready to reopen and we have a refreshed regularly updated menu so there’s always something different to try.

“The hospice is all about its people and there’s been a little something missing since our community hasn’t been able to come in and enjoy lunch with us so I’m really excited about welcoming them all back.”

The Heart of the Hospice is based in Prospect Hospice on Moormead Road in Wroughton.

All proceeds from the cafe go straight back into the charity to help care for local people with a terminal illness.

People who have a few hours to spare each week and would like to join the friendly café team serving customers can get in touch with the hospice via volunteering@prospecthospice.net or by calling 01793 816193.

Lydiard Park protection orders against nuisance dogs set to continue

An order to encourage responsible dog ownership at Lydiard Park has been renewed following a public consultation.

The council introduced a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) at the park in 2016.

A total of 356 people took part in a six-week consultation which asked them if they supported both the ban on dog fouling and the exclusion of dogs from enclosed children’s play areas.

96% of those who took part in the consultation supported the dog fouling element of the PSPO, while 95% were in favour of prohibiting dogs from enclosed play areas.

Swindon Concert Band to host charity concert

The Swindon Concert Band will be performing a show to raise funds for the Swindon Music Trust.

The show, entitled 'Autumn Gold', will take place on Saturday, 22 October, at Christ Church in Old Town.

The concert will begin at 7.30pm. Tickets will be priced at £10, and will be available on the door, or via tickets@ swindonconcertband.co.uk, or 01793 813 095.

Accompanied children under 16 will go free.

Taylor Wimpey to begin work on new Swindon housing development

Taylor Wimpey will soon begin work on a development of 127 homes in Swindon after exchanging on an area of land at Lady Lane, Swindon. Taylor Wimpey say Robin Gardens will comprise a mix of two, three and fourbedroom homes, suitable for a wide range of buyers.

Planning permission was granted in June and following the exchange of contracts in August, work is due to start on site soon.

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

The Nepalese Association of Wiltshire hosted a day of cultural celebration at Faringdon Park.

The event ran from 11am to 7pm, with a variety of different stalls and cultural displays for locals to enjoy.

The guests of honour attending the celebrations included South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland, the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon, and Hilary Pearce of the Gurkha Welfare Trust.

All the guests of honour joined Mr Gyan Prasad Gurung, President of the Nepalese Association of Wiltshire, and the traditional Nepalese band, in procession through the official archway and along the red carpet.

Sir Robert Buckland and Mayor of Swindon Cllr Abdul Amin were invited to light the ceremonial candles up on the

stage area to officially open the day's programme of events.

The culture day gave members of the public the opportunity to enjoy traditional music from the Baglung Samaj Naumati Baja band, and see a fashion show with examples of traditional Nepalese dress. Different traditional Nepalese garments were worn and people could learn more about how they are put on, and what occasion they would be worn at. There were also dance displays.

Amongst the local organisation stands were staff from Livewell

Swindon, the Swindon Carers Centre and Swindon Police.

Later in the day, a cheque of £1,000 was presented to the Gurkha Welfare Trust by volunteer John Patel. Guest of honour and Partnerships Manager of the Gurkha Welfare Trust Hilary Pearce was there to accept the cheque. Additionally, Drs Rosa and Ian Matheson from Friends of Angel's Orphanage were in attendance at their own stall.

A picture gallery can be found at swindonlink. com/news/nepali-culturalday-2022.

Swindon woman to support suicide prevention charity with 20mile walk fundraiser

Tracey Boxall of Grange Park will be bringing suicide prevention charity CALM's Lost Hours Walk campaign to Swindon.

Tracey will be taking part in a sponsored walk around Swindon with 25 other people in aid of the charity this October.

CALM stands for Campaign Against Living Miserably. The charity aims to help those affected by suicide, or suicidal thoughts, and offers help to those struggling with their mental health.

The charity's latest statistics show that 125 people die by suicide every week. CALM receives over 147,000 calls to its support helpline a year.

Tracey's son Alex 'Box' Boxall took his own life almost three years ago. The family received a call on 14 November 2019 to say that Alex had passed away. He was 19 years of age.

Tracey describes Alex as a young man who was full of life, who had an infectious smile and who was kind and supportive of

his friends and family.

CALM runs an annual fundraising event called The Lost Hours Walk. The sponsored walks take place on 29 October, to coincide with the clocks changing, and the UK experiencing a 'lost hour.'

Last October, Tracey organised her own Lost Hours Walk to take place in Swindon. She and nine other people walked 10 miles around the town and raised just under £3,000 for the charity.

This year, Tracey will be conducting another walk around the town. She will walk with a group of 25 people, and they aim to cover 20 miles.

Tracey said: "I think it could take around eight and a half hours. We will be wearing t-shirts, flashy lights and bright socks – anything bold. CALM colours are yellow and orange.

"I find these walks really uplifting, and I like that it is a positive thing. I do crash afterwards because it is tough, and it is very close to Alex’s anniversary and it takes everything out of me, but I wouldn’t change a thing.”

She will be joined by friends and supporters that will be travelling from Suffolk, London, Burton-on-Trent and other UK locations, as well as Swindon.

She has set up another JustGiving page where people can donate - www.justgiving. com/fundraising/tracey-boxall People can read the full story at swindonlink.com/charity/ tracey-boxall-last-hourswalk-2022

Image credit: Sneha Gurung

Tracey (left) with her family and Alex's photo at CALM's The Last Photo Exhibition in June, 2022.

of Wiltshire

to

We provide a secure and happy environment where the work is varied and challenging and every child and adult is valued.

We set the children and ourselves high standards to enable every child to develop his or her potential to the full and become confident learners.

All parents are very welcome at Haydonleigh, and we see home and school working together as very important for your child.

School Values

Respect Responsibility Enthusiasm

Unity Creativity

‘I am talented together, I am amazing!’ underpins our philosophy.

We believe in nurturing our individual skills and working together to enable everyone to meet their full potential.

School Profile: Haydonleigh Primary

Get to know the schools in your area

This issue: Haydonleigh Primary School

Address: Haydon Court Drive, Swindon SN25 1JP

Contact: 01793 700 443

Website: www.haydonleighschool.co.uk

At Haydonleigh, our united vision was created by our pupils, parents and staff alike.

Our school is committed to working in partnership to ensure every child achieves their best.

High expectations in learning and behaviour are maintained throughout our school.

We believe that learning should be active, so our staff and governors work hard to ensure each child is offered a varied and exciting curriculum, whatever their ability.

We pride ourselves on providing our children with a stimulating education. The school was visited by Ofsted on 19th January 2019 and was judged to be “good”.

Our Facilities

"Create the best future for your child"

We are a three-form entry school with a capacity of 630 children, made up of 90 pupils in each year group.

Our school has amazing facilities including a dance studio, theatre, pastoral room, award-winning kitchen and a purpose built Early Years Foundation Stage “nest.”

Our large grounds boast playfields, a wooded wildlife area, large outdoor gazebo classrooms, a number of trim trails, a kitchen garden, a London bus library and a role-play caravan.

Link Business

Local optician backs national campaign to help children’s sight

Haine & Smith are backing a national campaign this summer to raise awareness of the link between screen time and shortsightedness in children.

Myopia is said to be a growing, global, epidemic linked to the amount of time spent looking at tablets, phones and TV screens.

If left un-diagnosed, opticians say this can cause serious eye problems in later life.

Anna Lewin, Clinical Lead at Haine & Smith, advised: “Along with cutting back on screen time, we’re also encouraging parents and guardians to get their children’s eyes examined regularly.

"This will allow your optician to see the health of the eyes and whether they have deteriorated at all since the last exam. Our opticians can provide helpful tips on ways to keep your children’s eyes healthy which

is extremely important while they are still growing and developing.

“The World Health

this figure down.”

Anna has also given some signs to look out for which could indicate your child is

to their face or sit close to the TV and maybe even complain of headaches.

"Although sometimes there are no signs or symptoms, which is why regular eye tests are so important.”

The aim of the national campaign by Myopia Focus is for myopia to be recognised as an ocular disease by the NHS and for there to be free myopia management for all children in the UK.

Haine & Smith has signed the petition and is giving its full support to get this agreed upon.

Children under the age of 16 are entitled to a free NHS eye test and, if needed, free glasses.

Organisation (WHO) predicts that up to half of all people will have myopia by 2050.

This is a startling figure which is why we have to educate people now to hopefully bring

short-sighted. She added: “Children could be struggling to see the board at school, squint when they try to see something in the distance, hold their screen close

To make an appointment with Haine & Smith, individuals can either visit their local practice, call them to book a test, or fill out the contact form on the website at www.haineandsmith.co.uk

Major award for Swindon author

By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk

A Swindon Anglo-Romani author has received a prestigious award.

Karen Downs-Barton is among the winners of the Creative Future Writers' Award, which recognises the work of underrepresented writers.

Karen is also a workshop facilitator and PhD candidate at Kings College London, and is writing a magic realist poetry collection exploring identity and minority languages in the entertainment and sex industry communities.

After an early life travelling from place to place, including spending time in state childcare, she put down roots in Swindon.

Karen won the 2021 Cosmo Davenport-Hines poetry award, and her poetry has appeared in publications including Tears in the Fence, Rattle, Ink Sweat and Tears;

and the North.

Her latest accolade is the Silver Award from the Creative Future Writers' Poetry category.

The mission of the Creative Future awards is to make publishing more diverse and representative.

More information can be found at www.creativefuture. org.uk/for-writers/creativefuture-writers-award/

A column by Swindon Borough Council Deputy Leader Gary Sumner The moment so many hoped would never come

By the time you read this column we will have lived through one of the most extraordinary events in our country’s history.

The death of our Monarch, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, was a moment many of us hoped would never come because she was such a constant in our lives for so long. Her 70-year reign was quite incredible.

To witness the nation’s outpouring of grief and admiration over the last few days has been truly humbling and, as I write, preparations are underway for Her Majesty’s State Funeral before she is finally laid to rest.

Although it is with great sorrow we mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, we now have to look forward to the reign of our new Sovereign.

I was privileged to be able to attend the local Proclamation ceremony at the Civic Offices with the Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Abdul Amin, and Vice Lord-lieutenant of Wiltshire, William WyldboreSmith, as we formally announced the beginning of the new King’s reign.

To be part of such a unique tradition was a proud moment and the singing of the national anthem to honour the King Charles III and the ‘Three cheers for the King’ that followed was an uplifting snapshot of the future within what has been a sorrowful time for our country.

May she rest in peace.

Labour group leader Jim Robbins reflects on end of an era

Swindon Labour Party were deeply saddened to hear the news of the Queen's death.

We pay tribute to her many years of outstanding public service and leadership of the country and Commonwealth.

She has been a constant in many people's lives and few Swindonians will remember the time before she was crowned. We send our condolences to the family.

Council meetings have been stopped during the national mourning period and the Government is in recess, but other issues of national importance do remain. The Government need to find time to enact the freeze in energy prices before they are due to have another recess for the Party Conference season at the end of the month, and locally in Swindon, the council needs to determine how it will be ensuring that we help people through the cost-ofliving crisis and rising inflation.

People will be coming to terms with the change of Monarch, as well as a change of Prime Minister.

I hope that Swindon can observe all of the formalities and the ceremonial events of this time well and ensure that the Queen has a fitting send-off, and we pay tribute to her years of impeccable public service before ensuring that we get on with the big political issues of the day and ensure that we are supporting Swindon residents to get through the difficult winter ahead.

As we set to that task, our thoughts will obviously be with the King and his family.

Words by Jamie Hill

Gigs, quizzes and feasts for The

Link

Desert Trek in aid of Prospect Hospice

Some of you might have read that Swindon Link has put a team together, including myself, to cross the Sahara Desert next year, all in aid of Prospect Hospice.

You might think we're idiots (especially me who is approaching 50 and is already sweating buckets at the thought) but at least we're idiots who are doing it for a good cause and you don't get much better causes than Prospect Hospice.

Well, as part of this, having already paid for the trip ourselves, we have to raise a huge amount of money for the charity by Christmas.

So with this in mind the team, including myself Kieran McCarthy, Amy O' Reilly and Laura Johnson have put together five different events this Autumn to help in our fundraising efforts.

These include a feast evening at The Pick Up Point in Devizes Road, a fundraising gig at Level 3 on Commercial Road and three separate quizzes at The Tuppenny in Old Town.

Monday 24 October at 7pm

The Sahara Desert Fundraising Feast @ The Pick Up Point, Devizes Road

A delicious three course meal with entertainment including Jim Blair and a raffle at The Pick Up Point in Devizes Road, Old Town. There will be a glass of prosecco or orange juice on arrival and vegetarian and vegan options are available. Tickets are £37.50 including booking fee and are available from bit.

ly/3PrmWFe

Monday 31 October at 7.30pm @

The Tuppenny, Devizes Road

The Amazingly Scary Tuppenny Halloween Quiz

You scream, I scream, we all scream

for a quiz team. A blood-curdling quiz night that will keep you guessing. £2 per person. Registration at 7.30pm for quiz start at 8pm.

Saturday 26 November 8pm to 3am

Team Link Fundraising Gig Night at Level 3, Commercial Road

A night of amazing music with Buswell & Nyberg opening, followed by Death is a Girl and Slagerij with DJ Dust on the decks until 3am.

Tickets cost £5adv £7dr available from level3swindon.com

Monday 28 November at 7.30pm

@ The Tuppenny, Devizes Road

The Tuppenny Does Taskmaster Challenge Night

A series of brainstormingly silly challenges to shock, laugh at and be a bit confused about. £2 per person.

Registration at 7.30pm for quiz start at 8pm.

Monday 19 December at 7.30pm @

The Tuppenny, Devizes Road

The Tuppenny Big Fat Quiz of the Year

Time to get out from under that rock you've been hiding beneath and answer all things 2022. £2 per person. Registration at 7.30pm for quiz start at 8pm.

The Sahara Trek takes place in the Moroccan Sahara where the Link team members will experience the vast and diverse landscapes including the Atlas Mountains.

The trek will span over 60 kilometres and takes place from 19-26 March 2023.

You can find out more about the trek at www.prospect-hospice.net/ saharatrek

Or if you just want to donate visit www.justgiving.com/team/linksahara

LINK FEATURES

POETRY

When breakfast might be the only meal of the day

“France?” said Terry. “I’ve never been outside Swindon in my life. No, tell a lie. I went to Wootton Bassett once.”

He pondered, fiddled his fingers. “France? I get lost in West Swindon. Imagine getting lost in France.”

I was on duty serving guests, guests with stories. It’s difficult to paint a picture in words: people coming in and going out, calm and respectful, with the delicious whiff of an English breakfast as a back-

Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon

drop. James took orders on an iPad as if it was his day job. Wayne cooked to order. Lizelle was on toast, then a final check before sending me to the table. Jon and Qamber provided tea or coffee on arrival. It could’ve been any streamlined restaurant in Swindon.

But it wasn’t. The difference could be summarised in one order: “I’ll have a full English but without the bacon as I’ve no teeth, and no egg as it makes me bilious. White

bread but I’ll have to leave the crust.”

For some, it may be the only meal they’d have that day. I could hear the late Sister Theresa saying: “If you can’t feed a hundred, then start with one.”

The charity, Big Breakfast Plus, started with four breakfasts and has certainly surpassed its objective – nearly 50 received a nourishing meal that morning.

There was no judgement, no cajoling, just good catering.

The volunteers were led by Charlotte who would signpost outreach charities if requested.

I can’t think of anything more worthy. The Pilgrim Centre is, in the words of Louis McNeice, like:

"...the bare bones of a fanlight

Over a hungry door"

It will become even more immediate this coming winter. “Big Breakfast Plus” is open Monday to Friday, 7:30 to 9.00, at the Pilgrim Centre on Regent Street. Sponsor, volunteer or donate at: https://bigbreakfastplus. org.uk

www.mauricespillane.co.uk

Saving money on cycling

The rising cost of living has led to more people getting on their bikes as a cheap form of transport and leisure activity. You really don’t need any special clothing or equipment to get started. For most of my bike trips I’m in normal clothes and riding a secondhand shopping bike. Just invest in a good quality lock (e.g. A ‘D lock’ with the ‘Sold Secure’ label).

Here’s some tips to help you save on the cost of cycling:

1. Buy Secondhand – Not only does buying secondhand save money but older bikes are often built better and don’t look so flashy and attractive to criminals! Getting a hybrid bike can provide you with a comfortable ride around town, a great alternative to short car trips, saving you money on fuel and parking costs. My daily workhorse is a 30 year

Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer

With the leaves turning brown and the days getting shorter, Autumn marks the end of our most joyous season.

But for Swindon, Autumn should be the start of a new beginning. After what felt like the longest transfer window on record Scott Lindsey finally has a full amory to select from.

Although the quality of the armory is still up for debate it's certainly fair to say that Lindsey has been backed heavily by the board.

Therefore surely it should only be a matter of time until Swindon start progressing up the table.

On deadline day, the prayers of every Swindon fan were answered.

A goal scoring number 9. Despite the remarkable Erling Haaland at Man City a prolific number 9 is a dying breed in football, making the acquisition

old Raleigh Cameo, it’s only got three gears but with a basket and a pannier rack it’s so useful and very reliable. Why not check out Recycles in Swindon, a great social enterprise where you can buy a refurbished pre-loved bike for a fraction of the cost of a new one?

2. Get Your Bike Fixed or Security Marked for Free.

Throughout the year there are various chances to get your bike checked over and fixed for free by a local mechanic.

We’re funding a mechanic to provide these services at the Repair Café and Free Shop held at Eastcott Community Centre. The next event is on Sunday 6 November from 2-5pm.

Many events also offer free bike security marking (or ‘stamping’) with BikeRegister. Keep an eye on the Swindon

Cycle Campaign Facebook page and the events page of the Swindon Travel Choices Website to find the next one.

3. New Development Cycling Incentives – If you live in a newer development it is likely to have a Travel Plan and offer incentives to help residents get cycling (and often help with bus travel too).

For example, residents of Badbury Park are able to claim a £100 cycle voucher to spend on a bike, equipment, or servicing at Recycles or Mitchell Cycles.

At Canalside in Wichelstowe, residents can try out cycling on a folding bike, hybrid or electric bikes for free as part of a six-week bike loan scheme.

Locks and helmets are provided along with the options of pannier bags, a childseat or a trailer.

Could Jephcott be the missing piece of the puzzle?

of one extremely hard to come by. But thanks to the dominos falling into place on deadline day, Swindon had their man in Luke Jephcott.

On loan from Plymouth Argyle, Jephcott boasts an impressive record. Last season in League 1 he scored on 10 occasions and in the season prior to that he scored 16 times.

In addition the last time the 22-year-old played in League 2, he scored a goal every other game. Not only is that signing a statement but it's exactly what Swindon craved.

There's no reason why Jephcott, paired next to the already impressive Jacob Wakeling, can't go on to score 20-plus goals this campaign. And should the Welsh youth international achieve that, Swindon will be looking towards the right end of the table.

It's hoped that Jephcott

CYCLING

There’s a list of some of the offers from various developers at: swindoncyclecampaign. org/developments or you can get in touch with the Travel Plan Officer at Swindon Borough Council swindontravelchoices@ swindon.gov.uk to find out more.

Image below taken from an event at Badbury Park offering free bike repairs and security marking

could be the catalyst to covert Swindon's much famed draws into wins.

So far Swindon hold the record for the most amount of draws in League 2 this season. We can interpret this statistic both positively and negatively. The positive is that even with Town not quite at full strength they've managed to pick up points keeping the gap to the leading pack a bridgeable task. This could come in handy when Town do begin to hit their straps.

However, the same results could also be portrayed as negatives come the end of the season. People will argue what could've been had Swindon turned those draws into wins. It should also be mentioned that two draws have already come against sides competing with ten men. This consequently suggests that Town have lacked the

ideas to break down a compact defensive unit. Something which the focal point of Jephcott should solve.

To conclude this column I'd like to take the opportunity to thank Harry McKirdy for his time at SN1. The maverick striker recently left Town to move north of the border for Hibernian.

Scoring a total of 26 times for Swindon, McKirdy embodied the spirit around the club last season. Swindon needed McKirdy as much as McKirdy needed Swindon. McKirdy came into last season as an outcast. However the new fan favourite quickly found a home. Initially a winger with bags of trickery and potential, McKirdy flourished into a clinical talisman of a striker. His goal against the Champions of England will be forever remembered in Swindon's history.

Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign.

AGONY GIRL

From the pages of Swindon Link's sister publication The Ocelot comes Agony Girl in the form of nine year old Amy. We read her the questions and she tells us the answers. To ask Agony Girl a question yourself email us at publisher@swindonlink.com with 'Agony Girl' in the subject line.

Dear Agony Girl, How can I stop my dad from 'daddancing' at parties?

A concerned daughter, Abbeymeads Tell him to stop and then show him some good moves as if you don't show him some good moves he's going to carry on doing his stupid dad dancing. A high kick and a twirl and maybe some breakdancing should do it.

Dear Agony Girl,

I am currently trying to get back into reading. Can you give me some advice on how to do this? And could you recommend some good books?

Cheers,

Dave, Stratton

You just have to read. You have to turn the telly off and whenever you try to turn it back on make it so you get a shock if

you turn it on too much. You need to read silently and peacefully so you get into it. I recommend Stephen King books as that's what my dad reads.

Dear Agony Girl, My elderly mum is a very lovely lady but is going a bit deaf. Whenever I visit I have to speak very loudly to make myself heard and she also has the sound on her television so loud that the house shakes. How can I persuade her to go and have a hearing test?

Anita, Freshbrook

Get her some of her favourite jewellery and say to her that I'll only give this back to you if you go and get your ears checked. I wouldn't like it if I couldn't hear anything as then I wouldn't be able to hear anything like laughter, talking and the cats meowing. I'd miss that.

Dear Agony Girl

There's so much evil in the world like Putin, Trump, war, racism, homophobia and criminals like murderers and burglars. There's also natural disasters like floods, plagues and earthquakes which are awful. How would you make the world a better place?

Steve, Lawns

I would become the Prime Minister or The Queen and then tell everyone to stop being evil. If they said no I would then protest outside their homes and be really annoying until they said yes. People like Trump, Putin and racists and the others you said are total idiots and they don't deserve anything good. They should all be put in prison if they can't act nicely.