South East Swindon Link November 2020

No 49 November 2020 GPS-tracked & delivered door to door to 50,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 125,000

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A plan to transform Swindon town centre through culture p12

Bouncing back

Young Swindon twin singing sensations Billy and Louie wow Little Mix on the girl band's BBC One talent show

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

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

In the last few months I've been part of a group looking to the future of the town with an emphasis on embracing its rich cultural life. As editor of The Ocelot magazine, with its emphasis on arts and culture, over the years I have been deeply involved in the different cultural endeavours and the town's constantly surprised me with its breadth of amazing cultural talents from music to theatre to dance and to art.

So the news about the proposed Cultural Quarter in Kimmerfields is something that we at The Link can get fully behind especially as, this time, community organisations and arts groups have been part of the conversation.

In my mind, this development, which is a long way from fruition, could be transformational for Swindon and be exactly the shot in the arm the centre needs, breathing life into the whole of the borough.

Couple that with the good work going on in the Railway Village as part of the Heritage Action Zone and Swindon could be poised to bounce back from this pandemic in a really positive way.

Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Barrie Hudson

Twin duo Billy and Louie won over the world’s leading girl band on the second episode of Little Mix The Search.

The two also drew plenty of admiring messages from newfound fans on social media.

The 17-year-old Swindon singers auditioned for Little Mix on their new BBC One talent show.

They went straight through to the band room with four yeses and a standing ovation from the band.

Perrie Edwards said: "I’m just throwing it out there. Best vocals we’ve heard all day."

The twins had just performed their audition piece, a cover of Christina Aguilera's Ain’t No Other Man. Jade added: "I feel like if Jedward could actually sing, they would be you."

In a recent BBC Wiltshire radio interview, Billy & Louie explained that the girl band were hugely supportive of them and highly complimentary of their performance.

To test Billy & Louie, they were asked to try a harmony with Little Mix as they were interested to see how they blended and harmonised with other people. The twins said they loved the experience of singing with Little Mix. Later in the episode, Billy & Louie were seen rehearsing for the live performance with the other contestants. In this phase, ADVERTISING Call 07872 176999 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for December adverts and editorial: 13 November December edition published: 27 November

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the contestants were trialled in different combinations to see who had chemistry.

Little Mix admitted that they were apprehensive about splitting Billy & Louie up in the performance, but after seeing the rehearsal they were happily surprised to see the twins comfortably performing with the others.

During this phase, Little Mix discussed who they thought should stay for the next round.

At this stage, two contestants were let go and the remaining seven including Billy & Louie were sent through to the concert audition.

The boys said: "It was an incredible experience to collaborate with other people and although the rehearsal process was full on, we loved getting to know the others and having a great time."

They added that they connected well with the others despite the large age gap, and became really close during the filming process.

Despite not getting through to

the live shows on Little Mix The Search, Billy & Louie reported receiving a huge amount of supportive comments and messages.

One fan tweeted: "The twins were amazing. Only audition I rewound back and played again four times.

"They did not suit the band but OMG someone sign them.

Their voices were the best."

A Little Mix fan took to Twitter, saying: "We are so in love with you. You’ve gained a lot of fans."

TV personality Jaiden Michael tweeted: "Petition for Billy and Louie to have their own show. NOW. Love them."

The twins are continuing with their music career after their performance on the show, and have just released a Spanish single, Rosa.

Their TV appearance can be viewed online at https://youtu. be/jA--JaCgiks Back in Swindon, the twins took part in the town's first virtual Christmas Lights SwitchOn.

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Coronavirus news A rapid increase in national coronavirus infection levels has prompted Government measures to reduce the impact on employment and law enforcement

Getting ready for the long haul as coronavirus surges

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

The Government has announced measures intended to tackle the risk of mass unemployment amid a rapid increase in UK covid infection rates.

Among the most prominent is Job Entry Targeted Support - JETS. The £238 million scheme is part of Whitehall's £30 billion Plan for Jobs, which is intended to create, protect and support people into jobs in the wake of coronavirus.

Under the scheme, more support will be made available for people who claim Universal Credit to ensure they can return to work quickly, including specialist advice on how they can move into growing sectors as well as CV and interview coaching.

The move has been praised by North Swindon MP Justin Tomlimson and South Swindon counterpart Robert Buckland.

Mr Tomlinson, who is also Minister of State at the DWP, said: "JETS will give recently unemployed people the helping hand they need to get back into work, boosting the prospects of more than a

Swindon MPs Robert Buckland, left, and Justin Tomlinson

quarter of a million people across Britain."

The Government has also announced a £30m funding boost for police forces across the country, intended to help them deal with the added pressure and expense of enforcing covid laws.

Wiltshire and Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson warned

the public that the money would not allow the force to magically recruit officers.

He said: “What it may do is allow us to pay overtime to more police officers and staff, but we would obviously need to be careful not to stretch an already overworked and under pressure workforce.”

Covid hero award nomination for Swindon councillor who founded aid service Swindon Borough Councillor Tim Swinyard has been shortlisted for the 2020 Cllr Awards for Covid-19 Hero.

The awards are run by think tank the Local Government Information Unit and major charity fund manager CCLA. The Cllr Awards are the only national ceremony to celebrate the contributions of our councillors, and 2020 is the 11th year of their showcasing the achievements of councillors across England.

Nominees in the Covid-19 Hero category have been recognised as making sure that vital services are continued and going above and beyond to ensure that no one is left behind during the crisis.

Coun Swinyard founded Swindon Support, which helps 4

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vulnerable and self-isolating people with everything from grocery collection to simple company.

Its motto is a quote from Coretta Scott King, widow of Martin Luther King: "The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members."

Coun Swinyard said of his nomination: "It's a huge honour.

"I never did it for any accolade or recognition so it's really touching."

The winners will be decided by a panel of judges composed of senior councillors and officers as well as leading figures and groups from across the sector.

Due to the ongoing health crisis, this year’s ceremony

will take place virtually on Thursday, 26 November with special speakers and guests.

LGIU Chief Executive Jonathan Carr-West said: “The covid-19 pandemic has presented this country with a set of challenges that few could have predicted.

"However, councillors up and down the country have risen to these challenges and stepped up to the plate for their communities.

"From delivering food parcels to vulnerable residents and sourcing PPE for frontline workers to finding temporary accommodation for the homeless, local government has kept the country safe and moving.

"It is for this reason that we are particularly proud to unveil

the shortlist for this year’s Cllr Awards. Their achievements showcase the best of local government at a time when the country faces one of the greatest hardships of our lifetime.

"We would like to congratulate all of those councillors shortlisted and look forward to revealing the winners on the 26th of November.”

Coun Swinyard is among several councillors from throughout the country who have been nominated as heroes for their work in trying to limit the effects of the pandemic on vulnerable people.

Information about the work of Swindon Support can be found at www.swindonsupport.uk

SBC Swindon

Jobs saved by major funding boost for arts venues hit by covid measures Swindon arts and cultural venues are among 1,385 set to share £257m as part of a financial boost from the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

The move was announced on 12 October by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport and Arts Council England.

The recipients are those which applied for grants of under £1 million in the first round of the Culture Recovery Fund.

In Swindon, a total of £327,000 will be divided between music venues Level 3, The Rolleston Arms and The Vic, while £242,844 will go to the Wyvern Theatre and £105,325 to Swindon Dance.

The three music venues are run by Violet McLaren and Darren Simons.

Darren said: "The Culture Recovery Fund is helping music venues at grass roots level to make it through the lockdown period and keep supporting our staff - as well as our

musicians.

"With the restrictions in place it has put a limit on what sort of shows we can host.

"The 10pm curfew has been a nightmare - over 50 trade hours across The Rolleston, Level 3 and The Vic. "We were very nervous before we had the news today because we thought there was a chance that we would not be able to survive for long after Christmas.

"This is an absolute lifeline.

We can hold on to our staff and make plans for the future."

Darren added that the preservation of live music was vital because music was a key form of self-expression and essential for mental wellbeing.

Violet McLaren said: "I'm very relieved and very happy. It's saved everybody's jobs - we're secure for a while to come."

Swindon Theatres director Laura James said of the Wyvern funding: “We’re delighted to receive this

Violet McLaren and Darren Simons run Swindon venues The Vic, The Rolleston and Level 3

funding which will play a vital role in supporting our venues through this very difficult period.

"The money provided today will help us to meet the costs of maintaining the buildings through the closure period; will stabilise our position at a time when no trading income is

available to us; and will help to support our dedicated and skilled team."

In the South West, the Government says, the investment in the arts will help to save 172 theatres, galleries, performance groups, arts organisations, museums and music venues.

Registration for the first TechSwindon Summit is now open

A virtual event to promote and celebrate Swindon’s burgeoning tech sector will be held this month.

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

The first TechSwindon Summit will take place between 2 and 6 November and will showcase the very best of local tech talent and innovation, with a number of online events and discussions scheduled throughout the week.

As well as promoting Swindon’s impressive tech cluster, the event will also bring people together to collaborate, while serving as an opportunity to attract additional talent and businesses to the area.

The summit will be free to join thanks to a number of local organisations including Catalent, Nationwide Building Society, Royds Withy King, SetSquared, Swindon & Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership and Swindon Borough Council.

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World-class speakers and business owners will share thoughts and insights under four themes: Tech, Talent, Business Resilience, and Innovation. Already over 20 exciting events are available including workshops, meet ups and seminars from local and global brands such as BT, the British Computer Society and Comptia.

One of the highlights of the week is The Techies, an annual awards celebration focused on all things tech in business for Swindon and beyond. More details will be added to the programme so people are encouraged to keep checking the event website.

Councillor David Renard, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “Technology underpins almost every industry and job, and with over 10,000 people locally working in this area, it is vital to Swindon's economic recovery and growth.

“The TechSwindon campaign was launched at the Switch On To Swindon event last year, and although 2020 has been a tough year for businesses locally and globally, the tech sector is expected to remain resilient.

“Swindon is home to some of the best tech talent in the UK, with small and large

companies alike creating world-class products and innovations and I'm thrilled that this event will show this to the world.”

The campaign team has already hosted 750 attendees at more than 20 events over the last year.

Scott Gulliver, CEO at Fluff Digital, said: “As a new start-up it’s great to know we are part of a wider community where we can find support and guidance alongside opportunities to contribute to the town where we started it all. TechSwindon is enabling some great conversations and opportunities that really allow us to grow and connect with customers and partners.”

Businesses and individuals can register their interest and obtain the full schedule for the event by visiting TechSwindonSummit.com

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Wildlife walkers Wiltshire Wildlife Trust hopes to get more people involved in tackling the ecological crisis through signing up to the Big Wild Walk campaign, running for the first time this year from 26 October to 1 November.

Walkers can invite their family members to join in, set up a remote relay with friends or take the challenge on their own.

Further information about the campaign, the trust and its work can be found at www.wiltshirewildlife.org

Christmas raffle Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust charity Brighter Futures has launched its Christmas raffle - with a £1,000 prize.

Anyone who buys a ticket will be in with the chance of winning the money while knowing they are helping to raise important funds for their local NHS Trust.

Tickets cost £1, and details can be found at www.brighterfuturesgwh. nhs.uk

A419 slip road closed for work

The A419 southbound slip road at Swindon's White Hart junction will be closed until the end of November as improvement work continues. Drivers must follow posted diversions.

Care team's effort for vital charities Home Instead Senior Care Swindon and Vale of White Horse staff had a jam-packed September, completing various fundraisers to raise money for Dementia UK and Macmillan Cancer Support, as well as raising awareness for World Alzheimer’s Month.

Events including a sponsored walk raised a total of £332 for the good causes.

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Virtual Santa vs Rudolph run for 2020 will help good causes This Christmas Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s charity, Brighter Futures, in partnership with Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club, is bringing back the hugely successful Santa versus Rudolph Run that started in 2019.

The event was launched at Coate Water, and this year the charities have worked around the pandemic to organise a virtual run.

The event takes place from Saturday 28 November until Boxing Day and people can take part by running, walking or jogging a choice of distances on a route of their choice.

People can choose three, five or 10km distances, all while dressed in their best Christmas outfits. The only question is whether they will be team Santa or team Rudolf.

Anybody who takes part is encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines to protect themselves and others.

All funds raised will be donated to Brighter Futures and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Across the Trust, the money will be used to improve the hospital environment, fund groundbreaking research, support the development and training of hospital staff and provide state-of-the-art equipment.

Michelle Leighton, Community and Events Manager for Brighter Futures, said: “We are really pleased to launch

the new event today and that we have found a safe way for people to take part, have fun and raise some money.

“Since the pandemic began, all charities’ income has been heavily impacted and every single penny raised will help to save lives locally."

Participants will be invited to upload their events to the Strava app.

Further information about the event can be obtained by visiting www. brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk

Nursing director urges flu vaccine vigilance One of the region's most senior nurses is urging people not to neglect their flu vaccinations during the covid pandemic.

Gill May is Director of Nursing and Quality at NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group.

She said: "Whether it’s been wearing a mask, washing our hands more or keeping our distance from those we would normally throw our arms around, these difficult adjustments have been a necessity in recent times. But what’s also necessary as we approach winter is our awareness of flu.

"This nasty virus is often dismissed as ‘just the flu’ but it can cause real harm, even among the healthiest of people.

"The steps we’re taking to prevent the spread of coronavirus will also work against flu, but getting the flu vaccine is still the most

November 2020

Gill May is Director of Nursing and Quality

effective form of protection.

"More people than ever before have been invited to get the flu vaccine this year, and it’s important that as many as possible do."

The vaccine is free for people classed as vulnerable - a group including but not limited to people over the age of 65, pregnant women, any person with a pre-existing respiratory condition and those with weakened immune systems.

The offer of a free vaccine

has been extended to all aged between 50 and 64.

Free jabs will be available from GP practices and community pharmacies.

Paid-for flu jabs, for people who do not fall into any of the vulnerable categories, can also be obtained from pharmacies, as well as high street chemists and some larger supermarkets.

As is always the case, those people with the greatest need will be offered the flu vaccine first. The flu season runs until March.

The Old Town Residents Association Column

Old Town is blooming lovely even in a virtual world

By Judith Randell-Sly of Old Town Residents Association

As we are still in uncertain times and having to maintain social distancing, the committee is continuing to meet virtually through Zoom, on the third Monday of each month.

The agenda will be published on the OTRA Facebook page during the previous week for you to comment on and to suggest additional items for discussion. One of the things we do is to track planning applications, particularly those for HMOs (houses in multiple occupation), with regard to parking issues and the possible wider impact on the local area and community The amount of litter, particularly in our open spaces has been an issue raised by a number of people and we are interested to know how many people would be interested in raising the profile of this through local, socially distanced, organised litter picks. Again please comment via our Facebook page.

The gardening group is still going strong and has recently welcomed several new

members.

This is not a weekly commitment and all are welcome to join us, but we do not meet regularly during November, December and early January, so watch out for announcements for new dates during January on the OTRA gardens Facebook page.

Linda Kasmaty, who organises the gardening group, recently held a garden plant sale and amazingly raised over £640 for the Olive Tree café, which was sadly burgled, resulting in the loss of all their stock, and the OTRA gardens.

We were fortunate to be the recipient of a community grant from Waitrose of £330. This will help with the buying of plants as well as donations to Old Town initiatives and events and the running of the group.

Finally, we are very conscious that we have not had an AGM this year and are considering holding it virtually, via Zoom.

Again we would appreciate your views on this and any topics that you would like raised at such a meeting.

Keep safe and carry on supporting our wonderful Old Town businesses.

Pink and purple flowers looking lovely against the blue wall on the corner of Prospect Place

Grant from Wiltshire Community Foundation saves service for people with autism A vital service for people with autism in Swindon has been saved from the threat of closure by a £20,000 cash injection.

DASH – Discovering Autism Spectrum Happiness – has been awarded the grant from the Wiltshire Community Foundation’s Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund.

The fund has so far raised more than £1.1m and distributed £850,000 to 200 groups to help them cope with fallout from the pandemic.

DASH, based at Sanford House in Sanford Street, was forced to switch its Autism Matters information and advice service from a drop-in programme to one providing help by telephone, email or Zoom.

However, manager Gemma Owens said funding for the service, which has three experienced advisors now working from home, came to an end in the middle of the pandemic.

“People that were offering

grants put them on hold and the majority of grants you could access were emergency covid funds,” she said.

“There was a real risk that we would not have been able carry on offering our advice service so without this grant we would have found it very difficult to continue.”

Its website is dashswindon. com

Information about the Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund and the foundation can be found at wiltshirecf.org.uk

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Platform Project has a new chairman Entrepreneur James Phipps has been named chairman of Swindon youth development firm The Platform Project.

The businessman has been involved as a non-executive director for 12 months and aims to support continued growth, community and business engagement.

He said: “Having spent the last year working closely with the team and seeing the huge difference the Platform Project has made to young people, I was both humbled and excited when asked to become chairman."

Display postponed

One of Swindon's bestknown Bonfire Night fireworks displays has been postponed until next year due to the covid pandemic.

The 1st Purton and Lydiard Scouts announced their decision after considering the latest Government advice.

Call to apply for school places

Parents and carers with children entering primary, junior or secondary school for the first time next year are being advised by Swindon Borough Council that they now need to apply for school places for them.

This year, the council says, it was able to give 95 percent of applicants their first choice, but it recommends that applications include second and third choices.

Thames Water offers additional support Thames Water is encouraging customers living with long-term health conditions to join the water company’s free Priority Services Register (PSR).

The register is described as a secure database of customers who would struggle to get by should the water supply to their homes be disrupted.

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Builder helps fund a new gazebo at St Julian’s Wood A housebuilder in South Marston is helping to replace a gazebo at St Julian’s Community Woodland in the village.

The wooden structure, which belonged to Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, was built just under five years ago but was destroyed in an arson attack in June earlier this year.

Bellway Wales – which is building new homes at Vicarage Gardens, off Old Vicarage Lane in the village – has donated £400 towards a community appeal to replace the gazebo with a new fireproof metal structure and event space.

The gazebo was used by South Marston Primary School to provide students with a natural outdoor learning setting, with space for 25 young children.

The space was also used by families from the village for small parties and quiet retreats during lockdown, with some

Bellway sales advisor Julie James and Parish councillor Barry Thunder

village students using it as a peaceful location to study for their exams.

Seasonal events such as Easter egg hunting and pumpkin carving, as well as woodland crafts and private parties, were also hosted there.

South Marston parish councillor Barry Thunder said: “We decided to approach Bellway to see if they would be happy to help with funding, as they are providing new homes in the village.

“The gazebo was much

loved and used by many local people over the years, and it is something that we are passionate about restoring for the community.

“It has been a particularly difficult time to raise money during lockdown, and we are very grateful for Bellway’s kind donation as it is a great encouragement to the whole community here in South Marston.”

Bellway said working with communities was very important.

Work on Cultural Heritage Institute complete A significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration of Swindon’s Carriage Works has been reached with the completion of the Royal Agricultural University’s (RAU) Cultural Heritage Institute (CHI).

The keys to Unit 11 of Brunel’s Grade II listed Carriage Works were handed to the university by council officers.

The regeneration of the Carriage Works, located off Bristol Street, builds on the council’s commitment to finding sustainable uses for its heritage sites, assisted by Historic England through the Heritage Action Zone.

And, following the coronavirus pandemic, ‘Swindon’s bouncing back’ is the clear message from the council and business leaders as the town begins to step up its economic recovery.

The CHI is a purposebuilt postgraduate and professional training hub for

Dr Geraint Coles receiving the keys to the CHI from Cllr Dale Heenan

the RAU, aimed at increasing the number of trained professionals within cultural heritage industries, which form an important part of the local and national economy.

The institute offers a suite of new courses in subjects relating to sustainable, heritage-led regeneration and management.

The project has been delivered by Swindon Borough Council, and main contractors Beard Construction began

working on the site in July of last year.

Coun Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, Culture and Heritage, said: “The completion of the Royal Agricultural University’s Cultural Heritage Institute is fantastic news and a key milestone in the regeneration of Brunel’s Carriage Works, one of Swindon’s most iconic heritage assets.

The cultural future

Kimmerfields site identified as location for Swindon’s

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

Exciting plans to rejuvenate the arts in Swindon could be given a huge boost next week when members of Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet decide on where to build a brand new Cultural Quarter.

Over the past 12 months, the council has been working closely with key partners in Swindon’s arts, cultural and business sectors to develop a credible and deliverable plan to create a new Cultural Quarter to help revitalise the town centre and boost the town’s cultural offer.

The council’s Cabinet will discuss a report next Wednesday (21 Oct) which proposes to relocate the Wyvern Theatre and build the Cultural Quarter on the derelict Kimmerfields site, which lies between the railway station and opposite Debenhams on Fleming Way. Kimmerfields will also be home to the new flagship Zurich office, the first major office development in Swindon town centre for 20 years.

The proposals seek to enhance the cultural experience in Swindon, while also acting as an opportunity to reshape and increase the number of visitors to the town centre.

This exercise has been funded by the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP), and has followed an established development process with input from professionals in the sector.

Built in the 1960s, the town’s Wyvern Theatre is reaching the end of its life and new cultural forms and audiences need new facilities in which to thrive.

Engineering reports highlight that there is a need for over £20 million of refurbishments.

The plans for the Cultural Quarter are expected to come to fruition over the next 10 12

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years and include, among other things, a new theatre, dance centre, digital media and arts hub and new facilities to display Swindon’s nationally-significant art collection.

The whole development is expected to cost in the region of £80m. Most funding routes for cultural projects and capital infrastructure have been placed on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic, though the council expects new schemes to be announced later this year and next. This work will ensure Swindon is well prepared for the next round of bids.

An economic impact assessment has concluded that the Cultural Quarter could add more than £35m a year to Swindon’s economy and could create as many as 1,200 jobs for the town.

The plans, due to be agreed at Cabinet in late October, will be progressed through a partnership approach that brings together the town, the arts sector, diverse public and private sector stakeholders and funding bodies to develop

and sustain a long-term cultural offer of internationally recognised scale and quality for all the people of Swindon.

Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, Culture and Heritage, said: “When I took over as cabinet member, I made it clear to everyone that there needed to be a focus on fewer, more impactful projects that will make a visible difference to Swindon, and that change doesn’t happen overnight.

“The pieces of the jigsaw are slowly fitting together, with cranes and diggers now on site for the first new office development in 20 years, imminent decisions for £50 million of funding bids for the town centre, a refurbished Health Hydro, completion of the fantastic Carriage Works regeneration, new Hampton by Hilton and Premier Inn hotels and much more. Now is the time to present plans for a new Cultural Quarter and build on Swindon’s momentum to ensure that, by 2030, we will see a very different town centre.

“Cabinet’s ambition is to see the building of a new Wyvern Theatre with capacity doubled to 1,200 seats, which will attract the best national and regional shows and performers for residents to enjoy. We also want to deliver a new museum and art gallery that proudly displays Swindon’s nationally recognised collection of artefacts and exhibits.

“If approved by Cabinet next week, the next six months will see focus placed on writing the financial business case and investment prospectus, for the £78m needed to bring the Culture Quarter to life. This is a fantastic opportunity for Swindon and we must grasp it with both hands.”

The process of identifying an appropriate location for the Cultural Quarter involved two sites being considered – the current one at Princes Street, with the existing Wyvern, former town hall and Central Library at its core; and the Kimmerfields site.

Options were developed for both sites and, following an analysis of the relative

of Swindon?

new Cultural Quarter

strengths, opportunities and weaknesses of the two sites, a preferred solution of development at Kimmerfields was identified. A viable and attractive back-up opportunity at the Princes Street site will also be available were this not to progress.

The Kimmerfields site has significant development benefits, with much of it already cleared and ready for construction. It occupies a central location close to the railway station and, as a gateway to the heart of the town centre, it provides the opportunity to spearhead town centre regeneration.

The proposals sit against a backdrop of significant change happening in high streets and town centres across the country, both pre and post pandemic, impacting footfall and the viability of retail-led centres.

Investment in Swindon’s cultural offer represents an opportunity to address these challenges by driving footfall in the town

centre and allowing other amenities and businesses to prosper.

Viv Slayford, Artistic Director at Swindon Dance, said: “Swindon Dance has been based in the town hall for over 40 years, and while the building has been the bedrock to our early development it is now a cap on our future growth.

“Moving to the Cultural Quarter will give us the space and facilities to continue to grow and prosper across all areas of our work – professional and non-professional, local and international. It will also enable us to work with Swindon’s other cultural organisations to kick start the town’s economy and bring the passion and heart back to our town centre.

“Swindon Dance has a national and international reputation for developing young and professional talent in the dance world, supporting the growth of the artform on

the international stage and for making quality dance projects accessible to our local community regardless of a person's background.”

Paddy Bradley, CEO of the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “This is an exciting project for Swindon, which is rich in both arts and culture. Swindon has always had a fantastic cultural offering, from its amazing art and museum collections, through

to its nationally recognised dance and theatre companies and vibrant music scene.

“The choice of the Kimmerfields site for this development is an inspired one, linking the railway station transport hub with the town centre through a cultural quarter buzzing with people.

The SWLEP is delighted to help cement the future of Swindon’s cultural sector, allowing it to expand and thrive.”

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Late Swindon Central Library architect to be honoured there Lasting tributes will be paid to an award-winning architect who devoted his career to helping the most vulnerable in Swindon.

Swindon Borough Council will mark the passing of Nic Newland at the building with which he is most fondly associated, the Central Library.

Nic, who died last month, joined the council in 1999 as a senior architect before becoming Head of Architecture and Construction Management.

With a strong passion for education and creating the best learning environments he could, Nic was involved in more than 90 school refurbishment and new-build projects, including leading on improvements at a number of special schools.

His flexible modular Class Solutions school design, using connecting timber-framed blocks to allow the easy building, extension and adaptation of schools, can be seen in a number of newly-built schools in the borough including Croft Primary

School and Tadpole Primary School.

Nic's work, and especially the library, won a string of prestigious awards.

Council leader David Renard said: “I had the great privilege of working with Nic for a number of years and he will be a great loss to the council.

“He was a great character and meticulous in his work. He also went the extra mile to ensure the people who used his buildings were at the heart of his designs.

"This was evident in the features he put into his assisted bungalows, and I’m sure teachers and pupils who have benefited from his new school designs will be appreciative of the flexible teaching spaces he created.

“In fact, Nic’s Class Solutions concept summed up his attention to detail. The large classrooms are free from obstructions, the windows are closer to the ground to make it easier for

John Burn acquired his nickname courtesy of Total Wipeout andwith Richard Hammond Nick Newland the Princess Royal at the opening of the Central Library

children to see out of them and a ventilation system monitors temperature and oxygen levels so that fresh air is circulated to maintain concentration and alertness among pupils.

“In Tadpole Primary School, Nic even ensured each classroom had its own small domestic heating boiler so that the school was not reliant on a large expensive heating system which could close the whole school if it broke down.

“I am delighted we will

be marking Nic’s passing at Central Library because he was so instrumental in its creation.

"He was the one who installed the colourful lights that bring the building to life at night.

As a result, his life will always burn bright for those of us who knew him at the Council.”

A special photo of Nic, together with a plaque, will be displayed there, while a bench will also be placed in his honour in the courtyard which he himself designed.

Socially-distanced Swindon art fair announced for November

The Swindon Open Studios Christmas Art Fair will be held over the weekend of 21 and 22 November.

The venue will be Eastcott Studios and MAMS Gallery on Eastcott hill, and it will be open from 10am until 4pm on both days.

Pieces will include glass mosaics by Jackie Primrose, ceramics by Lisa Lowe, prints by Deborah Battaglia, Swindonthemed gifts by Donna Bradley and jewellery by Rosie Tozer.

Deborah Battaglia said: "Swindon Open studios has, over the years, become a big event on the calendar for local art lovers, and autumn would usually be a time of great activity with artists preparing to open their studios to the public.

"We are living through strange times with covid-19, and it was clearly not going to be possible for artists to welcome the public into their own homes.

"However, with the offer of Eastcott Studios as an exhibition 14

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space, it has been feasible to put on a socially-distanced Christmas art market, with a gallery for paintings at the front of the building through to a covered open-air courtyard for table-top stalls and ceramic studios.

"We have created a one-way system through the front gallery and into the covered courtyard, exiting at the rear of the building, with antibac stations along the way.

"Visitors are requested to wear masks according to current regulations."

Deborah added: "Some of our most popular artists will be exhibiting. Stalls will include glass mosaics, ceramics, jewellery, cards, Christmas cards and decorations, prints and paintings. course or taster session.

"This will be an ideal "MAMS gallery Cafe will also opportunity to support local be open for coffee and cake. artists and find that special "We look forward to seeing Christmas gift, be it a beautiful you there!" and individual piece of art work Swindon Open Studios is one or the purchase of a creative of the most prominent events on

the local arts calendar.

It usually involves artists from throughout the town inviting the public to their workplaces and giving an insight into how they create their pieces.

Swindon's Illumina will host Luminary

Window Trail Virtual Christmas Market On Saturday 3 October, inSwindon BID launched their new festive campaign - Swindon’s Illumina - as they hosted their first virtual Christmas Light Switch-On. The new campaign aims to drive footfall safely into the town centre in support of all businesses through visual, virtual and digital experiences across the festive season.

This year’s virtual event launched the festive campaign to support town centre businesses and was dedicated to the amazing work of Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, emergency services and all keyworkers throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and was hosted by BBC Wiltshire’s Ben Prater and Totally Crazy alongside 14 local acts, videos and special messages, before an exclusive projection, light and fire show for the switch-on moment was aired, as the Christmas lights illuminated the town centre. inSwindon BID Manager Anita Bellinger said: “We are thrilled with the support and reaction from the local community. We had people tuning in across Swindon, Oxford and even as far as Dubai! We know that the virtual event will continue to reach even more people in the lead up to Christmas, which is a wonderful way to raise awareness of our town centre across the festive period as well as through the other

initiatives that will follow until 31 December.”

Social media comments and support came flooding in throughout the show, and has reached over 82,000 since airing and had over 28,000 views via Facebook.

Continuing Swindon’s Illumina, from 1 November visitors will also be able to enjoy a ‘Luminary Business Window Trail’, which will see a variety of stars illuminate business windows across the town centre.

Plus, a ‘Virtual Christmas Market’ promoting the town centre businesses to visitors looking for their all-important gifts and seasonal shopping, as well as a selection of competitions. inSwindon BID Manager Anita Bellinger said: “We are conscious that this year has had a financial impact for many, and we hope that businesses and town centre visitors can benefit from us bringing forward the official switch on.

We are encouraging people to spread their spending over a longer period of time, whilst bringing in sales sooner for the businesses. And more importantly, they can avoid overcrowding and stay safe by allowing shops to maintain social distancing.”

For all the latest information across Swindon’s Illumina visit www.swindontowncentre.co.uk or social media channels, @ inSwindon.

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“It’s been simply overwhelming” – Swindon nursing homes spread thanks for support during the pandemic

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

The managers of two nursing homes in Swindon are sending their thanks and appreciation to the hundreds of people who have supported them throughout the Coronavirus pandemic.

Teams at Kingsmead and Ladymead, which are both part of the Healthcare Homes Group, provide residential and nursing care to up to 80 people, and have worked tirelessly throughout the Covid-19 outbreak to redesign services, keeping staff and residents as safe as possible from the virus.

Staff at both homes have gone above and beyond to support residents, working additional shifts, taking on new roles, and quickly adapting to new safety measures in accordance with Government

guidelines. In recognition of these efforts, the Healthcare Homes Group organised Care Appreciation Week in August, with each home visited by senior management to present vouchers, goodies and certificates to every member of staff.

Alongside this, local communities have rallied to support the homes, inundating staff with gifts, supplies, cards and tokens of thanks.

Pupils at Holy Cross Catholic Primary, King William Street and Ridgway Primary Schools sent drawings and letters to residents, while local artist Nellie Hearn donated a beautiful piece of art for display in Kingsmead.

Manager of Kingsmead Nicky Bickerstaffe said: “To say we have been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received would be an understatement. It’s such a positive to come from the

most unsettling of situations; the collective team effort that has mobilised to help our residents and support our staff has been incredible.”

Manager of Ladymead Byju Vasudevan said: “It’s very difficult to convey our gratitude for the impact this has had, but to every person in our homes and in our communities that has helped us, thank you. It will never be forgotten.” www.healthcarehomes.co.uk

The Samaritans are there for all of us during these difficult times

By Maggie Gill Swindon & District Samaritans Listening and Publicity Volunteer

Without a doubt these are strange times as coronavirus changes the way we live and yet Swindon & District Samaritans remains steadfast in being there for anyone who is struggling to cope.

Your local branch has remained open throughout the pandemic to provide a confidential listening service by phone and email. Many of our wonderful volunteers complete extra shifts during these difficult times so we can provide much needed emotional support. Every six seconds Samaritans answer a call for help. That’s over 5 million calls for help received a year but, sadly, 5,316 people died by suicide in England in

2019 – that’s an average of 15 people per day.

Like so many, our branch has needed to adapt given the constraints of the pandemic.

The great news is that we are now able to recruit and train all of our listening volunteers online using online video conferencing.

The first of our volunteers who have been virtually trained are starting the next phase of their training in the branch. Even as we learn how our lives are changing and respond to these different challenges, it is great to greet new volunteers who will now be there to support and listen to others at a time which has never been more important.

Anyone has it in them to be a Samaritan. You don’t need previous experience or have qualifications but we do need people to be non-judgemental and accepting of others. It doesn’t matter if you’ve gone through tough times. What

really matters is that you want to help people – all kinds of people from all walks of life.

Please get in touch if this sounds like you and start your journey to help make a real difference to someone’s future. If you’d like to find

out more, please contact us: samsrecruitment@btconnect. com Anyone can contact Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit, or email jo@samaritans.org swindonlink.com n

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The Big Interview: New South Swindon Parish Council youth worker says her wish is to enrich lives

New youth worker Lisa Randall with Coun Dave Griffiths, who chairs the Parish Council's Youth Working Party

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

South Swindon Parish Council has a new youth worker.

Lisa Randall's work will include supporting children with issues ranging from behavioural challenges to mental health problems.

She will also help recent arrivals to the parish from other countries and young people with low self-esteem.

Depending on pandemic restrictions, she will set up youth clubs in Broadgreen, Park North and East Wichel - where she will work with the local Stowaway Church - and set up new youth projects across the parish.

Lisa said: "As part of the Youth Programme we are looking to help as many young people as we can - this can be from the ages of six up to 19 years.

"Due to the difficulties we have faced this year with covid, we are fully aware that a number of children, young people and their families have struggled with their mental health.

"I've worked in education for over 25 years in teaching and as an educational welfare officer - so you've got the two aspects there, to engage children and to keep children in the classroom focused, identify whatever support they need and, obviously, get them to the grades they need.

"I want every child to have every opportunity they can to make their life better and more enriched, more purposeful.

"Just when they need somebody there, I want to be that person to support them. That was my whole goal in coming into education, to be somebody who could help to fulfil children's lives."

Parish councillor Dave Griffiths, who chairs the council's Youth Working Party, said of Lisa's role: "The need has always been there.

"It's a service that was there and central government decided that they wanted to push it put into the field.

"It's not something that is required, they think, but when you look at young people these days, they suffer all the same problems, virtually, as adults do.

"They need something there that can release the tension. They 18

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need something there to learn new skills.

"The world is continuously changing and they've got to adapt.

"If we can provide the chance for them to learn some of those skills in a safer, informal way rather than through an academic way, and at the same time find a place in society that they can be constructive with, so be it.

"We will have succeeded in turning somebody who could have been going down the road of drugs, crime, antisocial behaviour, anything, into somebody plays a constructive, positive part in the community."

Lisa added: "Sometimes children just need that person to trust, to be their advocate when they need somebody to speak on their behalf but don't know what words to say.

"By engaging a child - and a child trusting you - that's immense.

It doesn't matter what wage you earn - when you help a child that's the biggest salary you can get.

"It's not what the parish pay me, it's about that fulfilment that I've helped somebody."

Lisa has a particular interest in helping young people with their mental wellbeing.

She said: "Kids really struggle, and they struggle in so many different ways. It could be confidence, self esteem, it could be keeping up with their peers or meeting the crowd.

"For me, the biggest gift you can give a child is to listen to them.

"I don't think any adult throughout their lives will ever go through a period without difficulty.

"With life experiences and the kindness you have in your heart, that's how you're going to help a child - to say, 'We'll work through this, we'll overcome this, we'll work together.'

"Sometimes a child just needs somebody to be there. Not a parent and not a family member, because I remember there are things you don't want to tell your parents, but if you've got that sounding board who can reconnect you, who can help you, that's huge. I'm new to the team but what I've seen is a real passionate drive to help our parish and its families and children to have this new chance." www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk

Council leader's column

Exciting plans on the horizon for Swindon post-pandemic

Swindon Borough Council Leader David Renard's monthly column It’s clear that the UK economy faces some difficult challenges in the weeks and months ahead, but as a council we are determined to do all we can to use our assets, powers and influence working with partners to support the local economy here in Swindon. Doing all we can to attract investment and jobs.

Our contribution is of course one part of a bigger jigsaw, alongside national government support and the efforts of businesses to innovate and find new opportunities to navigate the current economic headwinds.

When this edition went to press, we were expecting to hear back from the Government on the outcome of our Swindon Town Deal plan to secure £25 million of investment on projects to benefit the town centre and another £25 million bid to contribute to the redevelopment of Fleming Way. Hopefully by the time you read this column we will have received good news on one, or both, of these bids, which would cap a really positive last few weeks for the town.

In September, we launched our ‘Swindon’s Bouncing Back’ campaign to highlight a number of projects, which will lay the foundations for Swindon’s economic recovery.

And, since that launch, we have seen evidence that Swindon is indeed bouncing back from the downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Activity has begun on the brand-new Zurich offices at Kimmerfields in the town centre and, over the last fortnight, a number of other projects have also moved forward which will leave a lasting legacy on our town.

The first bit of good news we received was the sale of a

new warehouse at Symmetry Park in the east of the town, which was reported to be the single biggest storage and distribution property deal in British history.

Work has already started on the new warehouse and rumours have been circulating as to the identity of the new tenant. Swindon Link readers can be assured it is a major employer who will be coming to the town, creating approximately 2,000 jobs, which will be a major coup for us.

I was also incredibly pleased to attend the formal handover of Unit 11 of Brunel’s former Carriage Works to the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) where it will house the Cultural Heritage Institute.

This will be a purpose-built postgraduate and professional training hub for the RAU aimed at increasing the number of trained professionals within cultural heritage industries, which form an important part of the local and national economy.

It also builds on our commitment to find sustainable uses for our heritage sites and the transformation of the old workshed into seminar rooms, a library, offices and a lecture space is amazing.

Elsewhere, a £40m investment

by CityFibre to provide gigabit-capable full fibre to homes and businesses across Swindon also got underway in Gorse Hill and Stratton last month.

Over the next three years, CityFibre will be laying new fibre channels and using existing infrastructure to help ensure all of Swindon can access faster and more reliable broadband in the years to come.

You may have also seen exciting plans reported elsewhere in this month’s magazine about the future of arts and culture in the town.

Swindon Council leader David Renard

Our plans to create a Cultural Quarter on the Kimmerfields site between the train station and Fleming Way is the biggest transformational change in our town centre in a generation.

The project is expected to come to fruition over the next 10 years and it is hoped it will include, among other things, a new theatre, dance centre, digital media and arts hub and new museum and art gallery It is a bold and ambitious vision, which has the backing of arts and cultural stakeholders, councillors from across the

council and the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

The next phase will focus on creating an investment prospectus to ensure we are well prepared for the next round of government and arts funding programmes when they become available. Importantly, we cannot bid for these funding streams until we have a clear plan in place.

Things are positively moving forward on a number of fronts.

We will be doing all we can to keep up that momentum.

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The Business Page CityFibre breaks ground on Swindon’s Full Fibre rollout

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

Swindon is celebrating a major milestone in its digital transformation as work begins to extend its Full Fibre network to reach almost every home and business in the town.

As part of a £40m private investment from CityFibre, Swindon will benefit from the town-wide Full Fibre network roll-out that will build on the third national digital infrastructure platform’s earlier investment in Swindon’s business connectivity and make it accessible to all.

According to research from economic consultancy Regeneris, Full Fibre connectivity will have a major impact in Swindon over the next 15 years. It shows that up digital future is just around to £83m could be added to the corner. Work is now the value of local homes, while underway and that is Smart City initiatives could something to be celebrated. add as much as £67m locally.

Full Fibre broadband will help Access to Full Fibre could households access all the latest also unlock £48m in business entertainment at lightning productivity and innovation, speed, but the benefits while a further £27m in are far deeper than that – growth could be driven from from enabling smart home new business start-ups, with technology to giving people enhanced connectivity making it the freedom to work from easier and less expensive to set home with ease. up base and run efficiently.

“The investment also comes Construction work has at a critical time for Swindon’s officially commenced in forward-thinking business Swindon’s Gorse Hill area, community. Next generation with the rest of the town Full Fibre connectivity can drive set to follow. VolkerSmart innovation and productivity Technologies is delivering ultimately giving businesses the the construction programme platform they need to realise on CityFibre’s behalf, using their growth ambitions. And modern build techniques to it won’t just improve business deploy the network quickly. locally – it will also help VolkerSmart Technologies businesses take their products is also working closely with or services to an international CityFibre, Swindon Borough audience.”

Council and local communities David Renard, leader of to manage disruption and Swindon Borough Council, said: ensure a fast and successful “It is fantastic that CityFibre is roll-out. Residents are being now ready to start delivering kept informed by mailings on its construction programme ahead of works in their streets. to help Swindon provide a Neil Madle, CityFibre’s future-proofed, Full Fibre City Manager for Swindon, digital infrastructure. This said: “Swindon residents’ 20 swindonlink.com n November 2020

Neil Madle, CityFibre's City Manager for Swindon

will bring many benefits to residents and businesses alike and allow our economy to continue to grow and prosper well into the next generation and beyond.”

Currently, fibre-to-thepremises (FTTP) is only available to around 16 per cent of premises across the UK. It is revered as the best in connectivity for its speed, near unlimited bandwidth and reliability. By using fibre optic cables for every stage of the connection from the customer’s home or business to the

Internet, users will be offered a significantly superior and more reliable broadband service, capable of Gigabit speeds (1,000 Mbps).

The Full Fibre network is not yet live, but once activated, services will be available from an increasing range of broadband providers.

Residents interested in connecting to Full Fibre broadband can pre-register their interest at cityfibre.com residential and will receive information when services are available.

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FEATURES

Words by Barrie Hudson

Prestigious award for Swindon's Steam Museum Swindon's museum of the Great Western Railway is a 2020 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award winner.

The accolade for Steam comes shortly after it won praise for virtual tours during the pandemic lockdown.

Award winners are known for consistently receiving excellent feedback on TripAdvisor, and Steam has been placed in the top 10 percent of attractions worldwide.

The recognition comes after the museum earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for the last five years.

Steam manager Frances Yeo said: “We are immensely proud to have been awarded TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award. We are committed to offering our visitors a great experience at Steam and we would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to review the museum.

“Although Steam was closed earlier in

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the year due to coronavirus, our staff worked hard on digital engagement projects to offer virtual experiences for Swindon residents and fans of the GWR worldwide.

“We are now pleased to be welcoming visitors back to the museum in person, and it has been great to see people enjoying our displays once again, including our two brand new special exhibitions, ‘Flying High’ and ‘On the Buses'.”

Housed in a restored Grade II Listed railway building, Steam tells the story of the men and women who built, operated and travelled on the Great Western Railway.

The museum reopened its doors to the public last month with a range of safety measures in place including enhanced daily cleaning, reduced capacities, oneway systems and hand sanitiser stations.

Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at TripAdvisor, said: “Winners of the 2020 Travellers’ Choice Awards should be proud of this distinguished recognition.

“Although it’s been a challenging year for travel and hospitality, we want to celebrate our partners’ achievements.

Award winners are beloved for their exceptional service and quality.

"Not only are these winners well deserving, they are also a great source of inspiration for travellers as the world begins to venture out again.”

Cllr Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, Culture and Heritage, said: “Steam brings the story of Swindon’s railway history to life through reconstructions, imaginative displays and

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the opportunity to see impressive GWR locomotives up close.

“This is STEAM’s first TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, and puts our town on the map for a very positive reason.

"It is a fantastic achievement for the museum and shows that all of the efforts of staff and the council’s investment in the museum has been worthwhile.

“The new covid-19 safety measures have been well received by visitors.

Families can now safely enjoy Steam once again and please remember to pre-book your tickets online.”

All visitors and season ticket holders are required to book a timed slot in advance via the Steam website - www.steammuseum.org.uk n Steam has taken the difficult decision to cancel its 2020 Christmas at STEAM event which would have taken place on 5 and 6 December.

A statement said: "Sadly, in response to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, STEAM has taken difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Christmas at STEAM weekend.

"We know that the event is an annual fixture in many of your diaries, and we are very sorry that we are not able to deliver the event this year. However, the safety and wellbeing of our visitors, volunteers, exhibitors and staff remains of utmost importance to us.

"We look forward to welcoming you back to Christmas at STEAM in 2021."

The Museum is on Facebook and Instagram (@SteamMuseum) and Twitter (@Steam_Museum).

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CULTURE Words by Jamie Hill

Lighting up Devizes

Devizes has received the fantastic news that Arts Council England have awarded them £14.000 worth of funding to bring some festive fun to the town in place of the traditional Lantern Parade which can’t happen due to current restrictions.

Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts are all set to bring some beautiful light shows and installations to the town along with the most ambitious Christmas market they’ve ever undertaken.

Loz Samuels, Artistic Director said: “For us this event is all about bringing the community together, we’ll miss being able to host the Lantern Parade but it’s obviously not safe to run the traditional event at this time.

"We have plenty of ideas up our sleeves to make Devizes feel festive but we need the help of residents to make it work. We know we have lots of creative people in the area as our WWI poppy knitting project proved in 2018 so we hope people will join in and help us

create something really festive for the Town.

"We are asking people to decorate their windows to make a magical trail which will be included in a map to help visitors find them. We will be putting a call out to all crafters to help us make an installation for the Shambles. There will be performers in the town and we will help support market traders by extending the event to the entire weekend over the largest spread market to help with social distancing so shoppers can visit safely. We are determined to bring some very safe festive magic to the town and hope everyone will get involved."

Markets will take place along with performances on the 27th and finishing on Sunday the 29th of November.

Information will be shared on the DOCA website and social media.

The traditional Light Switch On will happen virtually, people will be able to

watch it from the comfort of their homes.

The Town Council have developed some clever ideas to help Father Christmas switch on the lights without coming to Devizes, he’s got a very complicated Christmas ahead so this will make it easier for him, keep your eyes peeled for details coming soon.

All this is supported by DOCA’s new Patron Celia Imrie, who has family connections with Devizes and is proud get behind DOCA’s work.

Chair of the Trustees, Kelvin Nash said: "It’s a real honour to have Celia supporting us, we are delighted she agreed to become part of the DOCA family, she has attended our events in the past and has a great understanding of what a difference our events make to the Town. Celia is an iconic actress and author and has a deep understanding of the Arts and the impact they can make on people’s lives." www.docadevizes.org.uk

Poetry: Breaking the glass ceiling with a limerick

Poetry column with Maurice Spillane of Poetry Swindon

Hazel May, my dear friend, this story has to be told. Now, before I begin, let me say that Hazel is a formidable woman, writer of medical books, opinionated and no slouch in an argument.

One evening some years ago, a friend let slip that he was a Mason. Hazel lost it: “These men discriminate against women, bolster the glass ceiling . . .” and on and on she went. As a man with five sisters, four daughters and a wife I have sympathy, but to encourage discussion I said: “Aren’t there women-only groups.”

She challenged for examples. “Knitting circles,” I suggested.

“Knitting circles?” hissed Hazel, as Lady Bracknell would do. She let me have it.

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I phoned the guys next day, shared the story and said we had to do something.

The outcome was the Chiseldon and Liddington (Men Only) Knitting Circle. We got together for a few pints, pretended to knit woolly jumpers, took lots of photos, and attempted a long winter scarf in Gloucester Rugby colours, Hazel’s team.

“Knit one, Purl one,” could be heard all over Swindon.

We were slow knitters so only managed a neck-tie. The neck-tie and a photo-book of our Knitting Circle were presented to Hazel, who laughed heartily. She wore the neck tie to the next rugby match and that was the end of it.

Hazel’s son, Jonny, is back at Gloucester Rugby so we’re all Gloucester fans again.

They could do with Hazel’s support in getting up the Premiership Table (their glass ceiling) so here’s a Limerick to help:

There is a fine woman from Chissie Whose language can be quite prissy About feminist ceilings And men without feelings It’s getting us all in a tizzy.

No poetry in Swindon this month. Have fun searching the best Limericks here: interestingliterature.com www.mauricespillane.com

New album from Paul Lappin

The Swindon musician is talking about his latest album, The Boy Who Wants to Fly, which at the tme of writing was due back from mastering within days.

Although much of the inspiration for what Paul described as an optimistic album came from the South of France, it was recorded on his home turf at Swindon's Earthworm Recording Studio.

Paul said: "Back in 2014 I was given a unique opportunity to look after a small, isolated farmhouse in the Occitanie region of the south of France.

"It coincided with a time when I was looking for somewhere quiet and remote to do some sketching, painting and develop some song ideas.

"That little house, surrounded by vineyards, was the perfect fit.

"Much of the album was written within the first few months of arriving.

"The melodies came during long walks in the surrounding hills, the lyrics were penned in the local cafés. “'Nice To Meet You' was written after a conversation with a local French farmer who welcomed me to the area by buying me lunch. “'After the Rain' was written on

CULTURE

by Barrie Hudson

S

peaking over a patchy mobile phone connection from the top of a hill overlooking vineyards in the south of France, Paul Lappin can see the snowcapped Pyrenees in the distance.

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Picture by jennifermjberry.com

a clear and sunny morning after a heavy storm, reinforcing my urge to never waste a day.

"That particular tune was played on 6 Music recently - it sounded great!

"It’s a positive album, full of optimism, but it’s not without its darker moments.

"I’ve never been one for following the news but even in relative isolation certain stories filter through; 'Eye of the Storm' was a reaction to how helpless and frustrated I felt to all the crap that was going on at the time. “'Song For Someone' was inspired by the refugee crisis; a father and his son fleeing a war-torn country, battling with selfdoubt and uncertainty.

and so I tended to keep this new found self-indulgence to myself.

"But entering the 'For The Song' competition in 2019 changed all that.

Recording the winning single 'Life Was Good' was a huge vote of confidence which ultimately evolved into this album.

"In the two years it’s taken to make the album I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with some incredibly talented musicians, all of whom I now call friends.

"Jon Buckett and the team at Earthworm Recording Studio in Swindon were incredibly patient and generous with their time.

"We’ve already started talking about album number two."

"But it was important that even these relatively sombre tunes felt at least a little optimistic."

Personnel include some of the cream of Swindon's musicians, including Colin Moulding and John Buckett.

The Boy Who Wants to Fly is not only an optimistic album but an intensely personal one.

Paul said the album, once mastering was complete, would be available on Bandcamp.

Paul said: "None of the songs on the album were ever intended to be heard outside my family circle.

A few songs from the album, incuding title track The Boy Who Wants to Fly and single After the Rain can be heard at www.youtube.com/channel/UCCm1_ deSDstaKNhwqAnWprg

"I never considered myself a songwriter

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FOOD & DRINK

T

hat increasingly familiar term, The New Normal, is making its presence felt in countless aspects of our daily lives, and eating and drinking out are no exception.

Tiers and 10pm closures

Debate continues to rage over whether there is a scientific justification for making pubs and restaurants close at 10pm.

Many commentators claim the measure, intended to prevent the spread of infection as people become more relaxed, actualy has the opposite effect, with large numbers of people crowding the streets once final time is called.

What cannot be denied is that many venues have been hit hard by the policy.

Among the ones in Swindon to feel the impact are music venues The Vic, The Rolleston and Level 3, which are run by Darren Simons and Violet Mclaren.

Darren reported losing 50 trade hours per week across the three venues, although he stressed that the overhwelming majority of customers had been very supportive since venues were permitted to reopen.

He said: "One of the main things that we felt straight away is that it's been quite challenging.

"It was the lack of transparency in what was required. From time to time people would challenge they idea that they had to obey the rules - but most have been very supportive."

At the time of going to press, the Government had recently announced a three-tier model of covid risk classification and restrictions, with categories assigned according to infection levels in individual areas.

Tier 1, known as medium, applies in areas of lowest risk, and rules are much the same as those which were already in force before the new system was announced.

People must not gather in groups of more than six, whether outdoors or indoors, with exceptions made for larger households or support bubbles.

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Pubs, restaurants and bars in Tier 1 areas must close at 10pm.

Tier 2 areas are officially designated high risk, and are subject to stricter regulations.

The Rule of Six applies outdoors and there must be no household mixing indoors.

The most severe restrictions apply in Tier 3 areas, which are officially deemed to be at very high risk.

Household mixing, whether indoors or outdoors, is forbidden. The rule applies in private gardens as well as other outdoor venues, and the Rule of Six will be enforceable in parks and similar outdoor spaces. Any pub

or bar not serving food must close, people will be urged not to travel to or from the area - and further restrictions may be imposed by local authorities.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the new system woiuld avoid what he termed the misery of a second national lockdown, although at the time of writing there was talk of a possible so-called 'circuit breaker' lockdown.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the impact of another national lockdown could be measured in jobs lost, businesses closed, children's educations harmed and permanent damage done to the economy.

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HOME

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by Jamie Hill

Homeworking never looked so good...

ociety is changing. More and more people are spending an increased time at home whether it is home-working or simply making the most out of our domestic bliss.

One company, Cube Garden Rooms, is a specialist company which provides a range of bespoke outdoor environments for all types of situations.

Daniel Wilson of Cube Garden Rooms said: "We create design and build luxury garden rooms which due to the present climate has accentuated the need for having a home from home, an office at home but with a little distance from the every day family routine.

"All of our Cube Garden rooms are made from the highest quality timber and are made bespoke to your exact specification. They come fully insulated, with a plastered finish and full electrics. We offer a wide range of glazing options from patio, bifolds or even corner glazing in a range of colours.

"The external appearance is down to you and your budget, we

can offer cedar, larch, thermowood or redwood. All our builds come with a 10 year guarantee."

www.cubegardenrooms.co.uk swindonlink.com n

Steve at The Village Inn

November 2020

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LINK

Give your child a bike this Christmas

CYCLING Becky Cox: Swindon Cycle Campaign

Difficult times often seem to bring out the best in the community. Matt Jones, who runs local bike repair business ‘Run & Repair’, has been going above and beyond to help people get from A to B this year, amid the difficult challenges brought about by the pandemic.

Since April, Matt has singlehandedly received, repaired, and donated over 70 bikes to NHS and key workers in the town. Matt started the scheme during lockdown as he wanted

to do something to support people fulfilling important roles for their communities.

Most of the beneficiaries of the scheme have been women, who are under-represented in cycling, and many of whom had not cycled for years.

Donna Drury, a key worker at the Great Western Hospital, has been one of the people who has benefitted from this scheme.

Donna said: ‘When the Covid situation started we were all so scared and unsure about how to deal with it. I don’t drive and it was a 40 minute bus journey to work.

‘Then came Matt with his offer of a free bike to help NHS workers. I was overwhelmed by his kindness. The bike truly

did help me so much, not only getting to work, but helping to get me fitter too.

‘The time and dedication he put into the scheme was incredible. He has made such a difference to everyone he has helped, and I’m forever grateful.’

Not content to rest on his laurels, Matt is now launching a Christmas Children’s bike amnesty. He is looking for donations of preloved children’s bikes in good condition to be repaired ready to gift to children from families who have been hit hard this year.

So, if you have any pre-loved children’s bikes that you would like to donate to the scheme

please get in touch with Matt.

Drop off locations are in Peatmoor and Greenbridge of Swindon.

Alternatively, if you know a family in need this festive season, please get in touch with Matt on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ runandrepair email: run_ repair@hotmail.com.

LINK

MOTORING

Toyota Camry : A pleasure to welcome back Leigh Robinson: Motoring writer

Back on the British roads after a 15 year absence is the Toyota Camry, one of the best saloon cars around and what a pleasure to welcome it back.

It’s big business around the world and almost 20 million of them have been built since it was first launched in 1982. But because there was never a diesel model it has not been the car of a choice for UK drivers, while the Americans, who love their saloons to bits, bought 400,000 last year.

But with diesels now on the hate list thanks to the government insistence the Camry is ready to come back in fashion with its hybrid-petrol engine which is quite brilliant.

There are two models to choose from - Design or Excel. Both have the same 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid engine with a CVT gearbox, which is first class and the power is a useful 215bhp.

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Acceleration at 0-62mph takes just over eight seconds and there is a top speed of 112mph. You will be looking to get at least 50 miles to the gallon.

The engine produces 215bhp at 5,700rpm, along with 221Nm of torque and it is a quiet outing with good performance generally.

CO2 emissions are low at 98g/ km, which means first-year road tax

is reasonable and there are low company car tax costs. Toyota thinks that 80 per cent of Camry models will be driven by fleet users. A BiK rate of 23% applies. The insurance group is 31.

There is a sport mode as well as the normal and eco versions.

Design models get bags of standard equipment, including leather upholstery and almost every gadget you could need, including adaptive cruise control, sat-nav and front and rear parking sensors. Excel trim adds cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, wireless phone charging and an electrically adjustable steering wheel and for those extras you will need another £1,300 giving you around a £30,000 total price.

The Camry has a large load area of 524 litres, the boot is nicely shaped and the rear seats fold with a 60/40 split. But cabin storage is not great in the way of cubby holes.

The high driving position gives you a decent view. A standard parking camera, all-round parking sensors and a large glasshouse make parking easier than you might expect.

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LINK SPORT & LEISURE As we head towards winter, Swindon are trying to hit their straps and search for consistency. In the opening quarter of the season Swindon have shown flashes of brilliance as well as some defensive fragility. Swindon have blown teams away in some games but then in other games they've looked toothless and vulnerable. However in my opinion the positives certainly outweigh the negatives.

As the old saying goes: "all good things take time." And I'd say this applies to Swindon.

Town have been guilty of some defensive mistakes and some poor personal judgment at the start of this season. However I believe that there are definitely reasons to be positive. It's worth noting that the club captain and the best defender at the club Dion Conroy is nearing his return. Conroy has been out

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of action for over a year now after picking up a nasty injury, and it's easy to forget how influential the ex-Chelsea man is to our back line. The hope is that Conroy returns and leads are line back to becoming a more solid outfit.

In my opinion it's also worth noting that this Swindon squad is a much changed outfit compared to the one that conquered League 2 last season. Only 13 players who achieved promotion last season are still at the club. Therefore this will undoubtedly result in it taking time for this new set of players to click in both defence and attack.

Some expected Swindon to take their swagger from last season into League 1 and challenge for promotion, however they must understand that this is an unrealistic expectation.

Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer

Swindon have lost their strike force from last season's and it will take time for this season's team to replicate last seasons goal scoring feats. I believe that Richie Wellens has yet again created a slick outfit and with a few minor tweaks the Robins could be looking at a top half finish.

One thing that all football fans can agree on across the country is that football fans need to be let into grounds.

Now. We've seen socially distant outdoor concerts as well as people returning to indoor shows in London, so why aren't football fans allowed to return to grounds? I feel as if the Government have frozen us out and forgot about football.

Football needs fans not just

All good things take time for STFC for atmosphere but to survive.

Especially in clubs below the second tier, fans make up the vast majority of income to a club. Without fans clubs will simply cease to exist. It's alright being given small cash injections by the Premier League and Government, but this money simply isn't enough.

A lot of clubs are already beginning to experience the full effects of football fans being shut out in the cold. Surely in Swindon's case 5,000 fans could easily be let in seeing as the County Ground holds 15,000. It doesn't even need to be 5,000 fans as any number of fans would still make a difference to this dire situation.

Something needs to be done.

And soon.

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