Swindon is a great town with so much happening but if you talk to anybody from outside of the borough, they will instantly tell you that the opposite is true and that it is a cultural desert.
In this month's edition we are doing everything we can to prove that the town is awash with culture. Check out our Festival and Events Guide from page 21 to page 23 . There's more stuff going on than you can shake a ruddy great stick at.
We also take a look at The Vision for Swindon which was launched by the borough council at The House of Lords in late March.
The whole point is to drive inward and outward investment into the town, ensuring that it lives up to its potential. Swindon Link has always championed the town and we are 100% behind the drive to push this vision.
As always, though, we implore you also to try out our sister publication The Ink, our subscription-based news service, where analytical and longform news gets sent directly to your inbox and costs £5.99 a month.
Swindonians have really taken to The Ink as it gets under the skin of the town's issues.
If you haven't already, sign up below.
The Swindon Blossom Festival returns for the Easter Holidays
By Amanda Wilkins amanda@swindonlink.com
Swindon will celebrate the arrival of spring with a series of events across the town as part of the Swindon Blossom Festival.
The festival, which runs from 5-20 April, will comprise of a series of workshops, activities and events at:
n GWR Park
n Town Gardens
n Badbury Park
n Shaftesbury Lake
n Buckhurst and East Wichel
Tiny Forests
The Blossom Festival takes place at the GWR Park on Saturday 5 April from 11am until 3pm, and will feature live music, arts, crafts, nature tours and much more.
The Badbury Park Spring Festival takes place on Saturday 12 April between 9.30am and 3pm. The day will be filled with activities, including crafts, a storytime session in the library, bouncy castles and much more.
Storytime in the library will start at 11am and is free to attend. People can book a young person’s spot for the Youth Club taster session at 1pm (Ages 10-plus).
The Town Gardens will host a huge variety of spring events which features egg trails, live music and craft events, including:
5-18 April – Dinosaur Egg Trail – Run by Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
6 April – Dinosaur Live DropIn Crafts – Run by Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery
6 April – Heritage Tour of Town Gardens – 1pm 6 April – JGMusic on the Bandstand - 3pm
10 April – Ministry of Samba Live Rehearsal – 6.30pm to 8pm
11 April – Family Friendly Heritage Tour of Town Gardens – 1pm
13 April – North Swindon Big Band on the Bandstand – 3pm
17April – Storytime under the Blossom with Local Author Kate Claxton – 10.30am
17 April – Singing under the Blossom with Local Author Kate Claxton
17 April – Ministry of Samba Live Rehearsal – 6.30pm to 8pm
18 April – Wiltshire
Treehouse Easter Egg Trail –Town Gardens
19 April – Wiltshire Treehouse Easter Egg Trail –Town Gardens
For more information, visit: https://southswindon-pc.gov. uk/blossom/
News from SBC
SMASH Youth Project will run new youth centre in Swindon
A new youth centre in Park North will be run by SMASH Youth Project in collaboration with STEP Swindon and WAY Swindon.
Providing a dedicated space for young people to access activities, support, and creative opportunities, The Base has been built by Swindon Borough Council with support from the Government’s Youth Investment Fund.
To help make The Base the best possible
space for young people, SMASH and the children and young people involved, known as Young Changemakers, are inviting the community to support the centre by donating items for use by young people.
The items will be used in the centre’s various rooms which include a kitchen, salon, therapeutic space, outdoor garden, gym, music studio, design and media studio.
Nine-year-old Amelia goes behind the scenes
Nine-year-old Amelia dived into the world of recycling after being invited on a tour of Swindon’s Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC).
After writing her thoughts on Swindon's recycling and sending them into the council, Amelia and her mum, Katie, got a behind-the-scenes tour of the HWRC. They learnt about what can be recycled
at the kerbside and how important it is for residents to separate out soft plastic recycling.
Although not collected from people’s homes, many supermarkets collect plastic bags, wrapping and films for recycling. Recycle Now’s ‘Recycling Locator’ allows local residents to check which supermarkets collect them.
Council assessing feedback from PSPO consultations
Members of the public have been having their say on two proposed orders designed to tackle anti-social behaviour in Swindon.
Last month, Swindon Borough Council asked for people’s views on a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which aims to ban unauthorised car meets to keep the Borough’s streets safe.
The gatherings, which can attract hundreds of spectators, can result in dangerous manoeuvres and speeding.
Between July 2023 and July 2024, there were 45 reports of car meets in Swindon, with one individual seriously injured
and several near misses.
The proposed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) would ban people from organising and promoting unauthorised car meets and prevent anyone from travelling to one in a vehicle that is either attending or taking part in an event.
The PSPO would be enforced by Wiltshire Police and Fixed Penalty Notices of £100 would be issued to anyone who breaches the restrictions.
The council is also proposing a PSPO to clamp down on a number of anti-social activities in an area covering Swindon town centre and Broadgreen.
Under the proposed order,
Anyone who would like to donate can email hello@wayuk.org to find out more.
officers from Wiltshire Police and the council would have legal powers to ban specific actions within the town centre and surrounding areas.
PSPOs were introduced as part of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and are primarily aimed at changing and improving behaviour.
The order would ban the use of e-bikes and e-scooters as well as street drinking, urinating in public and the use of a pedal bike that is considered to be of danger to pedestrians.
Enforcement of the PSPO would be carried out by Wiltshire Police and
designated council officers. Evidence to support officers would be gathered through witnessing the offences being carried out, CCTV footage, or body camera footage.
Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) would then be issued to anyone found in breach of the restrictions outlined in the PSPO, with fines of up to £100 handed out on the spot, any alcohol confiscated and further summary convictions which could result in a fine of up to £500.
Feedback received from both consultations will now be considered before a final decision is made.
Council invests more than £2 million getting the town's roads up to scratch
Since the start of the year, Swindon Borough Council has resurfaced a number of roads across the borough.
Eighteen locations will have benefitted from the essential resurfacing between January and the end of March, including some roads and junctions which are used by thousands of motorists each day. Some high-profile locations include Thamesdown Drive, Cricklade Road, the Great Western Hospital access road and Queens Drive roundabout.
It is estimated that it would cost the council more than £140m to get all of the roads across Swindon to a ‘like new’ condition, so limited funding has seen just over £2m invested in 2024-25 on those roads which are in most need of repair. The local authority also set aside an additional £2m for day-
to-day highways maintenance, including reactive pothole repairs (£170,000) but also all other maintenance work related to roads, pavements and cycle paths. An additional £1.5m has been awarded to the council from the Government for this coming financial year (2025/26).
Cllr Chris Watts, the Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “In order to keep drivers moving, we need to make sure that our roads are in the best condition they can be with our limited resources. More resurfacing improvements will be announced over the coming months and we know there are locations which need more help than others."
To find out more about roadworks going on in your area, visit the Swindon Borough Council website and search ‘roadworks’.
New Golden Age for Swindon hailed at House of Lords VIP gathering
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
An event to showcase why now is an ideal time to invest in Swindon has been described as an overwhelming success.
Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Jim Robbins says he hopes the confidence that major investors have already shown in the town will spur on many more to join Swindon’s upward trajectory.
Cllr Robbins was speaking after the council organised a special investment summit at the House of Lords, which sought to promote Swindon’s buoyant economy and investment potential to investors, businesses and the Government.
Attendees were also given a presentation about the ambitions to reinvent Swindon's town centre as outlined in its updated ‘Heart of Swindon’ vision.
Hosted by The Rt Hon the Lord Wills, former MP for Swindon North, guest speakers also included representatives from Panattoni, FI Real Estate Management and Business
Robbins and a number of his Cabinet colleagues and senior council officers visited Number 10 Downing Street to share the ‘Heart of Swindon’ vision with the Government.
Developed last year with the support of Allies and Morrison, a London-based architecture and planning practice, the vision has been updated following consultation with residents last year. It was developed working with town centre landowners,
to 8,000 new homes and amenities to support a Swindon population growing much faster than the national average.
The council and public sector partners are already investing more than £100m in projects to improve infrastructure and unlock development.
Speaking after the event, Cllr Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “What a fantastic event. It was great to see so many people keen to find out what Swindon
West as well as MP for Swindon North Will Stone, and Swindon South MP Heidi Alexander, who spoke passionately about what Swindon has to offer.
Earlier in the day, Cllr
developers, educational institutions, government agencies and businesses.
The council is now courting investors with the opportunity to be part of delivering up
has to offer and I’d like to say a big thanks to Lord Wills and our two MPs for their support in bringing the event together.
“There was a real energy in the room, with a range of
people talking passionately about Swindon and how now is the perfect time to invest in the future of the borough.
“The most pleasing thing was that this was not a Dragon’s Den pitch with the council doing all the talking.
"We had representatives from Panattoni explaining why they are ploughing £918m of their money into transforming the Honda site and Business West and FI Real Estate Management describing Swindon’s enormous potential.
“I was delighted to also share our vision with the Government in Downing Street and ensure we are very firmly in their thoughts when future investment opportunities arise.
“Our job now is to take forward the positive conversations from last night so we begin to turn our vision, which has been shaped by local residents and businesses, into a reality.”
Lord Wills said: “I am delighted that the event was such a success.
“There was a real buzz about the evening as Jim, Will and Heidi all gave inspiring speeches about the future of the town.
"This vision has long been needed and we all hope this can be the start of a new Golden Age for Swindon.”
Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Jim Robbins with the Heart of Swindon document at the House of Lords
From left: Cllr Marina Strinkovsky, Cllr Kevin Small, South Swindon MP Heidi Alexander, Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr Jim Robbins, North Swindon MP Will Stone, Cllr Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council Depuity Leader Cllr Emma Bushell
South Swindon Parish Council April 2025
Buckhurst Field Improvement Programe
Work on the Buckhurst Skatepark has begun. The design has been tweaked slightly following a consultation in January. The council would like to thank everyone who took part in this survey.
Work will carry on through April and should be finished by the end of May. Keep an eye out for more information about the formal opening event of the Buckhurst Skatepark soon.
The Buckhurst sports pavilion is progressing very well, with new doors and windows installed, flooding the rooms with natural light. The next step is to start fitting the clubhouse kitchen. The vision for this project is now coming together and is expected to finish in late May to early June.
GWR Park - Sir Daniel Gooch
Wood Carving
The wood carving of Sir Daniel Gooch has been completed and is now visible for everyone to enjoy.
The council would like to thank carver Graham Derham for his excellent work on the sculpture.
A plaque will also be produced, detailing who Sir Daniel Gooch was and his significance to Swindon’s history.
As the first superintendent of the Great Western Railway, Sir Daniel Gooch is a crucial figure in Swindon’s establishment as a hub of industry.
The season of free concerts in our parks on Sunday 6th April 3pm with JGMusic. Come and listen to Swindon’s best musicians and bands at Town Gardens, Queen’s Park and GWR Park every Sunday.
For a full list of bands and artists, visit: www.towngardens-swindon.co.uk/music-in-the-parks/
Blossom Festival 2025
The Blossom Festival returns to Swindon for 2025. Starting from 5th April at GWR Park, there are 10+ events across South Swindon celebrating blossom and nature. Join in with lots of educational, nature-based activities, including dinosaur crafts at the Town Gardens Bandstand on Sunday 6th April, the Badbury Park Spring Festival on Saturday 12th April and much more!
Free Music in the Parks 2025
The South Swindon Parish Council Column
By Neil Hopkins Chair of South Swindon Parish Council
Swindon Blossom Festival 2025
The Swindon Blossom Festival returns for the Easter Holidays! The festival has been a big success for the past 2 years and I can’t wait for the third edition.
Running from the 5th-20th April, the Blossom Festival takes place across South Swindon, including GWR Park, Town Gardens, Badbury Park and other locations. There will be a mixture of music, youth events, arts and crafts and much more. I’m especially looking forward to the GWR Park Festival on the Saturday 5th April, which will open the festival, and the Ministry of Samba live rehearsals in Town Gardens on the 10th and 17th April.
For more information and a full list of events, please visit www.southswindon-pc. gov.uk/blossom/
Buckhurst Field Improvement Programme
I’m delighted to say that by the time this edition of the Swindon Link hits your
doorstep that work will have started to redevelop the Buckhurst Skatepark. Thank you to everyone who took part in the recent consultation in January, your feedback was extremely helpful, and the design has since been tweaked to accommodate some of the suggestions.
Work on the new sports pavilion has continued at a steady pace, with the new kitchen being fitted and the vision of the building is coming together very well.
Solar panels will soon be installed on the roof of the building which will generate more than enough energy for the premises, ensuring the site is net-zero.
GWR Park - Sir Daniel Gooch Tree Carving
The carving of Sir Daniel Gooch has been completed, and he now stands tall overlooking GWR Park. I’m really impressed with the final result of this project, which continues the great work the council has done to improve the park over the past few years. Thank you to wood carver Graham Derham for your amazing work.
If you are interested in hiring one of our community facilities, get in contact with the council’s Community Facilities Officer: community@southswindon-pc.gov.uk
Voice stars Billy and Louie announce gig in aid of crucial Swindon charity
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Swindon-based community mental health support charity
The Kelly Foundation has announced its next fundraising event.
'An Evening with TV's Billy and Louie' will be held at Christ Church in Old Town on Friday 11 April, starting at 7.30pm.
The Kelly Foundation is a community mental health support charity based in North Swindon.
It offers a holistic service, meaning they don’t just become involved in emotional and therapeutic well-being and support but also explore, with clients, the causes of their mental health problems and determine whether anything can be done to alleviate those causes.
A spokesperson said: "This can include accompanying trips
to GPs, to the hospital, to the DWP and in a few cases in the last year appearances in the county and family court. In court they are unable to actually advocate on behalf of clients, but do advocate regularly in the community in many different settings."
The Foundation works with GP surgeries, statutory services and other organisations, as well as accepting direct referrals from members of the public.
They also operate a therapeutic café in the Pinetrees Centre, Kell’s Kitchen, where individuals recovering from mental health episodes are encouraged to rebuild their self-confidence and selfesteem in a compassionate environment.
The spokespersonn said: "We also have volunteers from the SEND community and undertake training in hospitality skills. The café is open from
approximately 9.30am till 3pm every day."
The charity would like to open the cafe for two or three hours on Saturdays but needs more volunteers.
It hosts regular fundraising events to help cover the £100,000 per year it needs for its work.
The 11 April show at Christ
Church will also feature rising local star Jasmine Grace, supported by saxophonist Towanda Mapanda. Further information can be found at www.ticketsource. co.uk/booking/select/ nwobzegzemkz and further information about the charity at www.4Kelly.org
Billy and Louie in action
Ambassador's tribute to late Swindon charity stalwart
The Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom has sent his condolences to the loved ones and friends of Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership founder and campaigner Mike Bowden.
Mr Bowden, pictured, died last month and his funeral was held at Christ Church in Old Town earlier this week.
Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership (SHAP) was founded within days of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022, and has sent more than 2,000 tonnes of aid, provided vehicles ranging from mobile medical facilities to a story bus for Ukrainian children, and also supported many Ukrainian people in the Swindon area who were forced to leave their homeland.
The Ambassador, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, who was formerly Commander-in-Chief of his country's armed forces, wrote to SHAP to voice his condolences, and praised Mr Bowden for his noble efforts in aid of the people of Ukraine.
Calling all Swindon artists
Swindon Open Studios is inviting local artists and craftspeople of all kinds to register for their Arts Community Event, by 31 March.
The town’s premier Arts Community Event, held during the last two weekends of September, showcases a wide range of talents, and people can register via @ swindonopenstudios
Something for every gardener at Growers Summit
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Swindon Growers Summit 25 will be held at Christ Church Community Hall from 11.30am to 5pm on Saturday 12 April.
In addition to offering expert tips on the joys of gardening, the event will be raising money for four local good causes:
- Prospect Hospice provides end-of-life care for people throughout the community as well as offering crucial support to their loved ones
- Twigs Community Gardens provides horticultural healing for people experiencing or who have experienced mental health issues.
- Old Town Community Gardeners are a group of volunteers who brighten up and tend a variety of public spaces
- Shine helps to improve people's wellbeing by offering
arts projects and coping strategies
The Growers Summit itinerary will start at 11.30am with a session called Practical Ways to Improve Your Soil, delivered by Eddie Bailey from Rhizophyllia, an organisation specialising in helping gardeners to grow nutrient-rich food and connect with nature. This will be followed at 12.45pm by a session called Gardening Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) by Liz Zorab from Amateur Gardening Magazine.
At 2.15pm, Liz and Eddie will be joined by Jamie Carr
from Blacklands Organic for Gardeners Question Time, and at 3.15pm Ursula Davies from Circular Agricultural Hub will deliver a session called Exploring a Food System Fit for Food Producers People and Planet.
The final session, Tips to Boost Your Garden Wildlife, by Chris Rumming from Lydiard Turkeys, will begin at 4.15pm.
The Growers Summit will also feature Eddie Bailey's compost testing station, a seed swap, community stands, plant stalls, retailers, a raffle and homemade refreshments.
Swinterfest raises almost £3,200 for Prospect Hospice
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
The team behind music festival Swinterfest gathered at UKRI headquarters to hand over the funds raised for Prospect Hospice.
Swinterfest, which ran over four days spanning the end of January and the beginning of February, raised £3,195.71 with a packed series of shows at four local venues - The Hop Inn, The Victoria, The Castle and The Beehive.
It was organised by the team behind the much-loved annual Swindon Shuffle music festival, the most recent of which raised £7,000 for the hospice.
UKRI - UK Research and Innovation - headquarters in North Star was chosen as the venue for the cheque presentation as UKRI was Swinterfest's headline sponsor and is a staunch supporter. Among those present at the ceremony was Prof Christopher
Smith FSAS, FRHistS, FSA, FRSA, FRSE, who is Executive Chair of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and Creative Industries Sector Champion.
He said: "UKRI takes very, very seriously its role here in Swindon.
"We're really committed to thinking about the notion of community as researchers, particularly in my subject disciplines, and this is our home."
Also among those present
was Prospect Hospice Chief Executive Jeremy Lune, who said: "Prospect Hospice is increasingly reliant on the very generous community.
"There's a celebratory aspect to what we do, which might seem strange to a lot of people, but we are about life and music is a part of life, so there's a natural synergy between the long-established shuffle, and Swinterfest too is a new source of energy for the town.
"We love being part of that."
Help shape the council's Swindon Skills Strategy
Members of the public are being invited to help shape Swindon Borough Council’s Swindon Skills Strategy, which aims to help residents have the right skills to succeed in life and in work, while also ensuring Swindon’s businesses have the right skills to thrive.
As part of the council’s Fairer Swindon mission, three sessions are being held to share ideas on how Swindon residents can access employment, lifelong learning and training, skills development and career progression.
They are also an opportunity to discuss ways that businesses can meet the needs of their workforce.
A stakeholder session involving education partners including colleges, universities, training providers, businesses, the voluntary sector and parishes will take place on Monday, 7 April, from 2pm to 4pm at Swindon and Wiltshire Institute of Technology at the North Star campus.
Resident sessions will be held on:
• Wednesday, 9 April from 6pm to 8.30pm at Central Library in Regent Circus
• Thursday, 24 April from 6pm to 8.30pm at North Swindon Library, Orbital shopping centre
There will also be an opportunity to complete a short survey at the sessions. This is a chance for residents to influence the future of skills and employment in Swindon. Residents can book a place through the council’s Let’s talk Swindon engagement platform (https://letstalk.swindon. gov.uk/) and be part of the conversation that will help shape a stronger, more skilled community.
Kings Award for Voluntary Service goes to Big Breakfast Plus
By Amanda Wilkins amanda@swindonlink.com
The Kings Award for Voluntary Service went to a remarkable Swindon charity this year - Big Breakfast Plus.
The charity was founded in 1993 and, like many charities, has had a tough genesis with funding and premises over the years. It got a big personality injection four years ago when Charlotte Mannion joined and energised it with the support of Sarah Smith.
Swindon poet Maurice Spillane said: "I remember when they started in the Pilgrim Centre with seven breakfasts a day from Monday to Friday. Last year they served 25,000 breakfasts and are open all seven days. They really do deserve the King’s Award.
"The guests are the homeless in Swindon, and those who live on the edge, compromised by food poverty with little income and a choice of outlay: rent, heat or food. The guests are not easily categorised. Every person with their own story is a unique category.
"I have interviewed several for previous articles and have come away chastened and uneasy because I have faced the obvious: that any of us could be a few slippery steps from being in the same situation.
"This was a unique occasion when the servers, all
volunteers, were recognised. They pitch up at 7am to prepare meals, know their positions in the kitchen or the dining area, as listeners and doers. They show open doors and open arms from 7.30am to 9am. They have no expectations except ensuring that their guests are warm and well fed."
The award was made to Angela Proctor and Jim McCloud, representing the volunteers. The Lord Mayor, Cllr Imtiyaz Shaikh, the Lord Lieutenant, Mrs. Sarah Troughton, Shirley Ludford, head of FM105.5 and Deputy Lieutenant, and MP Heidi Alexander were all in attendance.
Maurice said: "We have the trustees and donors, farmers and retailers, the Pilgrim Centre itself, like a broad spread of the willing. Somewhere in the layers come the cooks as managers, the
managers as activators, and Charlotte Mannion as the catalyst. She will retire soon and pass the baton. What a legacy she leaves behind.
"The King’s award is not an easy award to get, 'hen’s teeth' according to the Lord Lieutenant. Big Breakfast Plus was only one of only two charities to receive the award in Wiltshire this year so hen’s teeth it is.
"We had tea and cake, listened to the speeches, clapped for the awards, ensured the dignitaries met the guests and heard their stories. And then we drifted back to the streets, some of us lucky to have homes, and cars to get to our homes, and so many guests who went to the places that only they know about. We’ll see them again tomorrow."
Please visit @ BigBreakfastPlus if you would like to volunteer or donate £5 a month.
Blaylocks named independent retailer of the month in industry magazine
Old town shoeshop Blaylocks Shoes is celebrating after being named Independent Retailer of the Month in industry magazine Footwear Today.
In an interview in the magazine Mark Blaylock said: "I was pretty much born into the footwear industry seeing as it is a family-run business.
The business was started 104 years ago by my Great-Grandfather, Robert Blaylock, in 1920 as a shoe repairer. My Grandfather, Robert Arthur Blaylock, then joined in 1949 and he developed it into a shoe shop – although we do still offer an outsourced repair service.
"My Father, David, joined in 1974 and still works here now but in a part-time capacity. I became the fourth generation when I joined in
1997 full-time.
" A lot of our customers are regulars who have been shopping with us for a number of years. They appreciate the stock we carry, the personal service we offer from when they enter the shop to when they leave, and the relationship they have built up with our staff."
www.blaylocks-shoes.co.uk
CHARITY PROFILE
Profile - Every Cloud
Charity Type - Providing a range of activities and events to support community wellbeing
Founded - 2014
Address - Stanton Park Barn, Stanton Country Park SN6 7SF
Every Cloud is a charity run by volunteers offering a variety of activities, events and services which support the health and wellbeing of all in the community.
The organisation boasts a wealth of activities and relaxation opportunities, with something for just about everybody, whether they want to create something or simply relax.
There is the award-winning
garden, art and craft exhibitions in the barn, sculpture, therapeutic walks for adults, a therapeutic arts and crafts group and team-building days.
Cake and craft sessions are a popular way for people to
Its home base, Stanton Park Barn, nestles amid the tranquillity of Stanton Country Park.
A spokesperson said: "You may choose to participate in one of our visual art exhibitions, join in a family activity and events or simply relax with a cup of tea in the Barn or in our beautiful garden within the lovely country park.
"The park is a tranquil space where you can come to breathe deeply, be creative, relax, escape and feel the benefit of your own well-being.
"You will always receive a warm welcome at Every Cloud."
community garden, for example, and arts and crafts workshops run throughout the year by local artists and creators.
Popular family craft sessions
celebrate special occasions, while the annual Art, Nature and Nurture Festival draws people from all walks of life.
The charity hosts an annual photographic exhibition, offers
usually take place during the school holidays.
Other attractions include nature trails around the beautiful park and community
barn hire for events and is home to a monthly dementia group which offers a couple of hours of respite both for carers and those they care for.
Volunteers always welcome for an excellent local cause
One of the most recent announcements from Every Cloud was that its Cafe in the Barn is now open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.
There is also a kiosk on Saturdays and Sundays run by the Hjalpande Hander (Helping Hands) organisation, which provides work opportunities for young adults with special needs.
These are merely the latest additions to the long list of events, attractions and activities the charity makes possible.
There are always opportunities for volunteering at Every Cloud, and a spokesperson said: " Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new friends and help a great cause.
"Just a few hours now and then would make so much difference to us. Contact us and come along for a taster session."
Westlecot Bowls Club guarantees warm welcome
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Two open days have been announced by Westlecot Bowls Club in Old Town's Bowling Green Lane.
They will be held on Saturday 10 May from 10am to 3pm and Sunday 25 May from 11am to 3pm.
The club - which also offers regular bowls taster sessions for people who want to try the sport via contact@westlecot. co.uk - prides itself on its friendly welcome and excellent indoor and outdoor bowling facilities.
Founded in 1910 as an outdoor bowls club, Westlecot has also offered indoor bowling for some four decades.
There are around 170 members of all ages, and drawn from all walks of life.
The club's social facilities include a bar and dining area. The sport generally has an image of being primarily for
older and perhaps retired people, but it is an image the club is keen to dispel.
Management committee
building, for example.
Many members particularly enjoy taking part in the club's leagues and also competing
member Claire Bouverie-Brine said: "It's not just for when you're retired. We want to get the message across about families and groups - maybe work groups - who can come up and give it a go."
Claire believes bowls sessions would be ideal for team-
with other clubs further afield, while others are more content with social bowls.
Club activities also include visits to other clubs across the area and beyond.
Jake Webster, a championship-level player who at 24 is one of the younger
members, said: "Whatever team you're in, whether it's the top team or one of the other teams, it's such a social event.
"Everybody knows everybody else. That's what I like about the club - there's 170 members and we do get to know one another."
Claire added: "It is for all ages and all abilities, and it's just a great social sport. Also, compared to a lot of other sports the cost of doing it is minimal."
Club members also take a keen interest in supporting good causes, both local and national, and the club hosts regular charity coffee mornings to which organisations send speakers. The list of charities helped includes Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool, Swindon Parkinsons Support Group, the RNLI, Wiltshire Air Ambulance, IPSUM, Prospect Hospice, the NSPCC, Wiltshire Search and Rescue, Alzheimer's Society and Macmillan.
From left: Sheila Matthews, Ann Haunton, Claire Bouverie-Brine, Jake Webster, Sue Blundell
Interview: Dr Rod Hebden is the Director of Swindon's Festival of Tomorrow, which celebrates science, innovation and the arts
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
The Festival of Tomorrow?
"It's really about giving people ownership of and agency in their future," said Dr Rod Hebden.
"That's where it comes from. I want to help bring a lot of opportunities for people in areas of Swindon who don't usually get these opportunities, and I want to give an opportunity for Swindon to shout about the brilliant things that are here.
"It's an arts and science festival. At the beginning it started as out as science because that's my background, but I didn't want to create a festival only for people who liked science. I very deliberately didn't want to call it the Swindon Science Festival because then it would have been just for people interested in science to come, and sounded like it was just about Swindon, when actually this is about everything - and Swindon is the right place to be.
"I think teachers do a brilliant job in challenging circumstances. A lot of that is because of funding and time, and a lot of it is about constrained syllabuses and the way we assess science. I think what that leads to is...things have changed since I was a kid so I don't pretend that what I experienced is what people experience now, but I would say I went through the whole of my schooling, and in fact got a Masters in Physics, and I don't think in that time I did a day's Physics or Science in my life.
"That's because we were traditionally set up to learn about science and never actually do it. We weren't taught to be curious and creative, we were taught to learn what scientists in the past had learned already
and recreate the experiments that they had done. When we did experiments in school, you basically had to recreate an experiment that had been done in the past, and if you got a different answer to what was in the teacher's head or what was in the textbook, you were an idiot and you'd done it wrong! And you kept doing it again and again until you got it right or copied from the people behind you.
"Actually, science isn't about that. Science is about exploring, getting things wrong and doing new things, and unfortunately the way we traditionally were taught science was very much, 'regurgitate facts, learn methods, and just repeat the science that's been done before.' And you never actually did your own experiments until you had left all that.
"In art, we give kids a paintbrush as soon as they can hold one, and before that they paint with their fingers, and whatever they produce we praise it and put it on the fridge. We don't tell them they did art wrong or that they have to understand the history of
art and the great artists of the past before they're allowed to make their own art!"
Rod was born in Bangor, North Wales to parents from Lancashire. His father, a civil engineer, had moved there for professional reasons.
A degree in Physics at Sheffield was followed by a PhD and a stint in the automotive industry, but he says his true interest in science did not come until later, and was inspired by reading Bill Bryson's A Short History of Everything.
"That's what sparked my interest in science long after my degree, that book, because he made it about science and he made it about exploration.
"On the back of that I realised I really enjoyed writing, I really enjoyed presenting and communicating, and so I did a bit of science writing and then I did a Masters in Science Communication at Imperial College off the back of that."
Museum work followed, and what became the Festival of Tomorrow was prompted by Ian Surtees, a senior figure at
STEAM in Swindon.
"I just wanted to create something that felt like an exciting and fun thing that everyone's going to be interested in and accessible to all, and something that would enable us to have the opportunity to explore all sorts of areas - any type of science, any type of technology; arts and creativitybring everything together."
A particularly successful innovation of the festival has been bringing working scientists to schools to inspire young people - taking the festival to the pupils rather than the other way round.
"We don't make them come to us and choose 50 kids and get permissions signed by parents. We go to them, either online or into the schools.
"We were really trying to make sure we were getting rid of those hurdles to stop people engaging, and we're really pleased to see the response from that. We have a really huge proportion of our schoolchildren who come from areas of Swindon with the least access to higher education. The feedback from teachers has been amazing.
"I think what I'd love to do more in the future is to understand better the challenges teachers have now, because I don't believe they are the same as when I was a kid."
This year's festival was the most successful yet, with more than 47,000 people taking part.
"It's become a real community, particularly this year, and it's really lovely to feel that the community has embraced it with all the different organisations getting involved and supporting the local community.
"The other step change I want to make is to really establish it as being one of those festivals that is seen by organisations outside of Swindon as being nationally significant."
New hourly rail services between Swindon and Oxford could start next year Window artists make neighbourhood a gallery
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Eastcott residents lit up their streets to create a magical walking trail for the seventh year running in Eastcott Window Wanderland 2025. Window decorations were on show in scores of homes in the ward.
This year's theme was Reach For The Stars but those taking part didn’t have to stick with it and could create anything they fancied.
The event was coordinated by Eastcott Community Organisation, and thanks to sponsorship from the National Lottery Community Fund and the Wiltshire Community Foundation, people were able to pick up materials free of charge and get inspiration and help with their designs.
“Thank you to all involved for lighting up Eastcott,” said
Steph Newton, chair of Eastcott Community Organisation (ECO) a volunteer-led charity which runs Eastcott Community Centre and aims to improve life for all those living in the area of Swindon.
“Organising Window Wanderland is no small task. Thank you to Jaine, our Community Inclusion Co-ordinator and the many volunteers who made it possible and to the window makers for the wonderful displays. "
Follow Eastcott Community Centre on Facebook for news and updates.
A proposal has been made for hourly rail services between Oxford, Swindon and Bristol.
The move is backed by Swindon Borough Council, North Swindon MP Will Stone and regional transport bodies.
Mr Stone said: “Given the relatively short distance between Swindon and Oxford, current connectivity is poor.
"An hourly train link will significantly cut down journey times by rail and will further strengthen the economic linkages between our two places in a mutually beneficial way.
“Swindon is one of the most productive towns in the UK, and with the Panattoni site developing, its employment offer will only grow to both local residents and the wider area.
"The route also offers the people of Swindon an easier path to working within Oxford as well as giving families a
faster route to tour one of the UK's oldest cities, and will support both the economies of Swindon and Oxford to prosper and grow."
Subject to approval from Government, the new service could start as early as next year, building on a successful GWR trial.
Currently rail passengers travelling between Swindon and Oxford are forced to change at Didcot, while bus and car journeys on the A420 are often slow.
A new report setting out the case for the service says it would cut journey times between Swindon and Oxford to around half an hour. Better linking between Swindon, Oxford and Bristol, those behind the bid say, would fuel economic growth by better connecting high-performing sectors at the heart of the Government’s new industrial strategy.
At Oliver Tomkins Schools the committed and experienced staff strive to provide a happy and caring environment for all. We take pride in promoting the highest standards of conduct and achievement, allowing children the security and confidence to reach their full potential.
We live our Vision through three words: Aspiration, Thriving and Wellness. This means that we focus on the whole child, ensuring that we have high aspirations for all and that we encourage children to have high aspirations for themselves.
Don't just take our word for it...
Our Nursery, Infant and Junior Schools have been rated 'good' by Ofsted who said that pupils enjoy learning in and beyond the classroom. Parents praised the school to inspectors for the sense of community and the nurturing environment the school provides.
School Profile: Oliver Tomkins Nursery, Infant, Junior CE (VA) Schools
Get to know the schools in your area
This issue: Oliver Tomkins Schools
Address: Beaumaris Rd, Toothill, Swindon SN5 8LW
Contact: 01793 870471
Website: www.olivertomkinsschools.co.uk
Email: admininf@olivertomkinsschools.co.uk
Our SIAMS inspection in December 2024 noted that our school enables pupils to flourish and recognised how leaders promote an ethos of care and encouragement. The inspector reported that our effective pastoral care supports adults and pupils to thrive.
But don't take our word for it! Come and look round by booking an appointment on 01793 870471. We look forward to working in partnership with you and starting your child's learning journey.
n A commitment to providing the best education for your child.
n A focus on our school Values: forgiveness, hope, friendship, peace, thankfulness and courage. Welcome to Oliver Tomkins!
We want our whole community to thrive. We do this with exciting school experiences that prepare children for their future lives and we work closely with our families. We strive for wellness for all, which means that every member of the school community feels valued and respected and that each person is treated fairly and well.
n A calm, welcoming environment where individuals are valued and cared for.
n A well resourced indoor and outdoor curriculum where learning can be effective.
Business Profile - Sansums Sand & Gravel
Business Type - Aggregate and building materials merchant
Founded - 1972
Address - 19/20 Kendrick Industrial Estate, Great Western Way
Swindon SN2 2DU
Telephone - (01793) 536784
Website - www.sansums.co.uk
By Barrie Hudson barrie@positive-media.co.uk
Sansums Sand & Gravel, known to generations of clients simply as Sansums, prides itself on the quality of the items it provides both to traders and DIY-ers, and also on the sheer expertise gathered over the course of more than half a century.
A spokesperson said: "From garden renovation to laying down new pathways, we supply a range of top building materials for the job.
"Since we were established in 1972 we have been providing decorative gravel, block paving and building products to domestic and commercial customers.
"We take great pride in the building products we sell, and are always willing to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
"Just ask our friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always happy to provide assistance.
"Also we provide a collection and delivery service within the Swindon area."
The Sansums ethos of quality and expertise extends to everything the company provides for its clients, including aggregates, gravel, patios, paving, building materials and artificial turf.
When it comes to aggregates and gravel, for example, the spokesperson said: "We supply a range of building aggregates for a range of purposes.
"Whether you’re using it for construction purposes to reinforce the strength of composite material or laying down a new path in your front garden, our staff will be able
great way to really improve the look and layout of your garden. Whether you’ve moved into a new home and want to make it your own, or you’re renovating your own garden, you can find whatever you need at our store.
"While installing a new patio in your garden can increase your property value, it’s not simply an investment but
to recommend exactly the right product for you.
"Building sand, path gravel, scalpings, sharp sand, mixed sand and shingle are just a few of the aggregates that we sell.
"However, if you’re unsure exactly what product you need or you’re looking for something very specific, we will do our best to get exactly what you need."
And patios and paving?
"Paving and patio slabs are a
something to enjoy for its own sake. Here at Sansums, we stock a range of different paving and patio slabs, including Essential Porcelain, Essential Sandstone and more.
"You may not be exactly sure what product you need, or you could be looking for something specific, we will do our very best to get exactly what you need."
Sansums always welcomes enquiries.
For Sansums Manager Jason Southern, there is no mystery as to why the company has been so successful for so long.
Mr Southern, who has worked in the sector for 35 years, said: "We do anything from your front drive to your back garden, to massive new housing projects.
"We offer competitive pricing, availability and range of products."
The company prides itself not just on being able to provide customers with a full range of vital materials, but also on keeping up with evolving aesthetic trends.
"What's very popular at the moment is Indian Sandstone and porcelain, and we do a good selection of stock on that. That, obviously, is down to demand."
Sansums also makes sure it always carries the products its customers need to complete their projects properly and in a way which will last for years.
Those products range, for example, from mortar plasticiser and wallties to cement and Wellingtons, all sourced from the best suppliers and priced competitively.
The heart of Swindon comes to the heart of London for investors event
Jim Robbins
It was great, and slightly surreal, to be in Downing Street presenting our Heart of Swindon plan to regenerate the town centre.
Seeing the iconic door, the staircase with the portraits of all of the previous Prime Ministers and meeting Larry the Cat were all experiences I won’t forget in a hurry, but the real prize was being able to present the plan and get the buy-in we wanted from Government that Swindon is a town on the up, and will be in their uppermost thoughts when people are approaching them with inward investment opportunities.
After being skilfully shepherded out of the building as Mark Carney, the new Canadian Prime Minister, was arriving, we headed to the
House of Lords terrace for the Swindon reception where we were meeting a room full of investors.
Lord Wills, the former MP for North Swindon, hosted the event and I was proud to make a speech setting out the huge potential of the town alongside Will Stone and Heidi Alexander, our excellent MPs. We also heard from Panattoni, the company overseeing the £900m regeneration of the Honda site, First Investments, who own the Brunel Shopping centre and the Tricentre buildings, and Business West, who have been leading on the Knowledge
Central development around the railway station, as well as representatives from Allies & Morrison setting out the detail of the Heart of Swindon Plan. We then got into conversations with investors, and I can honestly say that I have seldom been in a room with as much positivity and excitement about Swindon. It was really heartening to see representatives from a range of Swindon organisations such as UKRI, the Wilkes Academy, The Royal Agricultural College, Zurich, Great Western Railways and many more engaging with investors, banks and pension companies talking up the opportunities in the town.
We have already been fielding calls and emails from potential investors wanting to discuss opportunities in more detail with us.
We are determined to deliver on the eight ambitions in the Heart of Swindon
plan, which will help us to deliver the modern town centre that Swindon deserves, whilst retaining its heritage and character. As the plans progress over the summer, we will be updating residents with our progress and involving them in the plans and designs as they develop. Regenerating a space the size of Swindon town centre won’t be quick or easy, but there are a number of quick wins we can deliver this year, including demolishing the bus station and introducing a new team of wardens to stamp out anti-social behaviour. I’d like to thank all of the people who helped make the events in London this week a success, as well as all of the residents who have helped shape the plan through our Let’s Talk Swindon events. It really felt that we took a big step forward on our journey to deliver the Better Swindon that everyone wants to see.
Seeing council-led long term investment coming to fruition
A column by borough council Conservative Group Leader Cllr Gary Sumner
I appreciate the crossparty support for the 'Heart of Swindon' roadmap for regeneration in Swindon's Town Centre as announced by the Labour administration. It closely aligns with many of the initiatives undertaken during our tenure.
In 2018, former Leader of the Council David Renard expressed in a local newspaper that Swindon is "...a town that punches well above its weight." It is encouraging to see the current Leader, Councillor Jim Robbins, use the same phrase in this week's media.
Swindon's key strengths include innovation, high productivity, regional connectivity, rich heritage and an excellent quality of life.
In 2021, I had the honour of launching our Cultural and Heritage-driven Transformation at a high-profile conference in London. That year, I also led a virtual workshop on residential development opportunities in Central Swindon and another on the regeneration of the Fleet Street and Bridge Street area. This area has significant potential due to its proximity to the station and the previous administration's flagship development at Kimmerfields.
In 2021, Panattoni announced a £700 million investment in the former Honda site, bringing seven million square feet of modern, sustainable buildings
and thousands of jobs. We collaborated with Panattoni on the planning application for a £400 million, two million square foot logistics and distribution hub for Amazon at Symmetry Park, creating approximately 2,000 jobs, including engineering positions to maintain advanced robotics within the state-of-the-art facility.
During the same period, we secured a £110 million investment for highway improvements, unlocking development land for 8,000 homes east of Swindon. Additionally, we entered into an award-winning joint venture with Barratt/David Wilson to deliver a 4,500 home residential development at Wichelstowe.
Some notable regeneration projects initiated by the Conservative Administration include The Workshed at
the Carriageworks with university partnerships, a £25m investment in the Institute of Technology to empower local students, the first electric Premier Inn, Queens Drive social housing, the Heritage Action Zone, the Health Hydro, and extensive upgrades to the two M4 Junctions serving our town.
Additionally, there were significant projects such as Kimmerfields, Fleming Way, and the new Museum & Art Gallery in the Civic Offices. Whilst these initiatives were previously criticized by Labour when in opposition, they are now being celebrated.
In 2022, the Centre for Cities Chief Executive said that Swindon’s strong local economy would help it bounce back after the Pandemic. I am delighted to see the £100m of council-led investment we secured now coming to fruition.
A column by Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr
FESTIVAL & EVENTS GUIDE
Swindon Set for a Spectacular Musical Weekend: Clubland Live and Could Be Real Tribute Festival
By Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com
Swindon is poised to host an extraordinary musical weekend over the May Bank Holiday in 2025, with two high-profile events set to take place at The County Ground.
On Friday, 23 May, Clubland Live Swindon will deliver an evening of highenergy electronic and dance music, while on Saturday, 24 May, the Could Be Real Tribute Festival will return, celebrating some of the most legendary names in music history.
These events promise an unparalleled entertainment experience for music enthusiasts.
Clubland Live Swindon –Friday, 23 May
Commencing the weekend’s festivities, Clubland Live Swindon will provide an evening of exhilarating performances, featuring some of the most recognisable names in dance and electronic music.
The headlining act, The Vengaboys, internationally renowned for hits such as We Like to Party, We’re Going to Ibiza, and Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom!, will lead an impressive lineup of artists.
Supporting performances will include:
• DJ Sammy (Heaven, Boys of Summer)
• Tinchy Stryder (Number 1, Never Leave You)
• Whigfield (Saturday Night, Sexy Eyes)
• Ian Van Dahl (Castles in the Sky, Reason)
• Ultrabeat (Pretty Green Eyes, Feelin’ Fine)
• Flip N Fill ft. Karen Parry (Shooting Star, Discoland)
• Michelle from Platnum (Love Shy, What’s It Gonna Be)
• Ironik (Stay With Me, Tiny Dancer)
• Craig Knight, a Swindon-based artist, who will bring his unique energy to the stage.
The event will be hosted by MC Keyes, ensuring an engaging experience for attendees throughout the night.
Event Details:
Venue: The County Ground, Swindon
Time: Doors open at 4 PM | Event concludes at 11 PM
Tickets: Available now via Skiddle.com
Could Be Real Tribute Festival –Saturday 24 May
Following its successful debut in 2024, the Could Be Real Tribute Festival will make its highly anticipated return to The County Ground on Saturday, 24 May.
This event will showcase an impressive lineup of tribute acts honouring some of the greatest British artists in music history.
Audiences can expect stellar performances paying homage to Queen, Oasis, Stereophonics, Kasabian, Amy Winehouse, Blur, Elton John, and David Bowie. These tribute artists will recreate the magic of these legendary acts, providing an opportunity for fans to relive the music that has defined generations.
The festival, which is strictly 18+, will feature performances across various genres, from classic rock ballads to indie anthems. Attendees can look forward to an immersive experience celebrating the enduring impact of British music.
Event Details:
Venue: The County Ground, Swindon Time: 3 PM – 11 PM
Tickets: Starting from £20, available at couldbereal.co.uk
A Landmark Weekend for Music in Swindon
With two major events back-to-back, Swindon is set to become a focal point for music lovers over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Clubland Live Swindon will provide an
electrifying dance experience, while the Could Be Real Tribute Festival will offer a nostalgic celebration of musical icons. Both events are expected to draw significant attendance, solidifying The County Ground’s reputation as a premier venue for live entertainment.
Tickets for both events are currently on sale, and attendees are encouraged to secure theirs in advance. Whether reliving the dance anthems of the past or immersing in the timeless sounds of rock and pop, this weekend in Swindon promises to be an unforgettable musical experience.
FESTIVAL & EVENTS GUIDE
Kelmscott Manor - a great place to visit from April to October
Kelmscott Manor was the iconic country home of William Morris; poet, designer, craftsman, socialist and founding father of the Arts and Crafts movement. This Grade I listed house was loved by Morris as an example of traditional craftsmanship. The Manor has so many intriguing stories to tell; its collections span
over 300 years and reflect the lives and creative legacy of those who lived and stayed there.
These internationally important works are on permanent display at the Manor from April to October; public open days are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10.30am-5pm with pre-booked
What’s On at Lydiard Park
Exciting adventures await this spring and summer with the return of Lydiard Park’s jam-packed events programme.
The fun begins with The Lydiard Park Easter Trail on Sunday, 20 April. Visitors will go on an adventure around the lake, searching for clues about the wildlife that calls Lydiard Park home. Children
group visits on a Wednesday. The purpose built Learning Barn has activities for all ages including trails, jigsaws, craft making and family workshops. The manor also boasts enchanting riverside gardens and the River Thames is located just a few hundred yards away. kelmscottmanor.org.uk
who solve the puzzle will receive a special prize! The trail runs from 11am –3pm on Easter Sunday, starting from the Coach House Activity Centre. The cost is £5 per child.
As the season unfolds, Lydiard Park will be hosting outdoor cinema evenings, a thrilling falconry experience, outdoor
A blooming wonderful time in South Swindon
All can join an extraordinary year of community celebrations with South Swindon Parish Council's 2025 events calendar!
Don’t miss out on the Blossom Festival from 5 to 20 April, blooming across GWR Park, Town Gardens, Badbury Park, East Wichel and Buckhurst Tiny Forests with a vibrant mix of live music performances, easter fun days, heritage tours, and circus
skills workshops for all ages. Throughout the summer, enjoy free music performances in the three beautiful parks – Town Gardens, Queen's Park and GWR Park.
The Town Gardens Bowl opens its 2025 season on 1 June with Comedy at the Bowl as part of the Old Town Festival, followed by a stellar lineup including returning favourites The Old
theatre, delicious foodie events and an incredible hot air balloon festival.
For dates and to for more info visit www.lydiardpark.org.uk/events
Time Sailors with their maritime melodies and Supersonic Queen. New for 2025, don't miss Fearlessly Taylor bringing the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute experience, On Thin Ice performing Pink Floyd classics, and a magical outdoor production of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night under the summer stars.
Full program details and tickets visit southswindon-pc.gov.uk/events
12 years of cheers for Old Town Beer Festival
The 12th Old Town Beer Festival takes place from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 May at Christ Church Community Centre.
The festival kicks off on the Thursday with a comedy night featuring Dom Joly, and
then the festival gets in full swing from 6pm to 11pm on the Friday night, and then all day on the Saturday from midday to 10pm with live music in the evening. A live concert finale takes place on the Sunday evening from 6pm.
The festival will feature more than 45 beers and 30 different types of cider.
Tickets are available from locations across Old Town including Magnum Wine; The Hop Inn; The Beehive
The BoA Green Man Festival – Saturday 10 May
The eighth annual Green Man Festival takes place on Saturday 10 May in Bradford on Avon and it promises to be another great day of dancing, music, performances and fun led by the giant Jack in the Green and his partner Jill in the Green. It starts on the Friday night with a launch party at the Wiltshire Music Centre.
Saturday is the main festival day with hundreds of dancers, five concert stages, a children’s fun
zone, funfair, a community hub and three quality markets.
and the Community Centre at Christ Church or online at oldtownbeerfestival.com
Saturday evening sees parties in several town pubs, and new for 2025 is the Green Man’s Fringe festival on Sunday.
There really is something for everyone. As always the festival is completely free of charge.
For more details and an event rundown visit boagreenmanfest.org
FESTIVAL & EVENTS GUIDE
The Festival of Sustainable Homes is back!
Celebrating community and arts in Old Town with its annual arts festival
The ‘Festival of Sustainable Homes’, sponsored by Good Energy, is an exciting, familyfriendly show, highlighting how we can all live more sustainably in our homes and communities.
Offering the latest advice
on improving the energy efficiency of properties – for both new builds & existing homes it takes place on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 May from 9am to 5pm at NSBRC in Lydiard Fields.
The two-day festival will
avoid ‘greenwash’ and offer genuine inspiration for anyone interested in creating well-designed, healthy homes, through exhibits, seminars, live demonstrations and an unrivalled line up of experts on hand to share their knowledge. FREE advance tickets at: www.nsbrc.co.uk
Festival in heart of OldTown with art and performances
Old Town Arts Festival takes place from Saturday 1 June to Sunday 8 June and kicks off with a celebration of Old Town’s iconic Victorian park - the Town Gardens. The day will feature nature workshops by Swindon in Bloom, nature-inspired art workshops by local artists, and a Town Gardens Story Walk by local author Kate Claxton. There will be two stages, the bandstand featuring local musicians
and performers, and the Town Gardens Bowl featuring local dance groups, as well as being the main picnic area. Local food, drink, and community stalls will offer refreshments and family friendly activities.
Throughout the whole week between 1 and 8 June there's a whole programme of fringe events.
The festival concludes with the Street
Party on Sunday, 8 June on Wood Street, with local food and drinks stalls and a musical stage but this time with an addition of art workshops and exhibitions being held at local venues. Visit thisisoldtown.com for more info.
An unforgettable weekend with WrdeUp Festival
The WrdeUp Music Festival is returning to Highworth on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 July, with a weekend of music, delicious food & drink, family fun and amazing music. Kicking off the weekend on the Friday will be
WrdeUp Warm Up – a 90s and 00s-themed night filled with nostalgic hits and high-energy performances featuring Jordan Marvell, The In-Here Brothers, and headliners Rave Against The Regime.
On Saturday there are two fantastic tribute headliners. The Olivia Rodrigo Experience and The Marley Experience. Plus, with an incredible lineup of additional artists throughout both days, there’s something for every music
lover to enjoy. There's also gourmet food and craft drinks and a variety of family-friendly activities, including interactive games and creative workshops. For tickets visit www. wrdeup.co.uk
Join Classic Ibiza’s birthday celebrations at Bowood House
Classic Ibiza returns to Bowood House on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 July, promising two extra-special evenings to mark its 10th birthday.
Known for their work alongside dance music greats like Groove Armada and Robert Miles, the awesome 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Hussey, will be performing more tracks than ever before. In a set that is all thriller, no filler, including Insomnia by Faithless and Café Del Mar by Energy 52. They will be joined by the incredible London Community Gospel Choir, creating a euphoric wall of sound
on a selection of house classics. DJ Goldierocks and DJ Rich Seam will also be there, and you can once again expect a spectacular laser and light show.
Car-parking is free, bring your own picnic, or visit the local streetfood vendors and Adnams Bar on site.
Tickets are selling fast, with Saturday night due to sell out shortly. www.classicibiza.co.uk
The Great British Food Festival Returns to Lydiard Park
Get ready, food lovers—The Great British Food Festival is back at Lydiard Park on the 2 and 3 August packed with delicious food, entertainment, and family fun. Following the success of previous years, the festival is returning with an even
bigger selection of artisan traders, mouth-watering street food, and talented local producers. Whether you’re a foodie looking to sample the best British produce, a family seeking a great day out, or simply someone who loves live music, cooking demos,
and fun activities, there’s something for everyone. Come along and watch top chefs in action, take on the famous Men v Food challenges, or pick up some tips at the chef demo stage. Little ones can enjoy free kids’ entertainment, while the
whole family can soak up the festival atmosphere.
Grab your tickets in advance to save money at greatbritishfoodfestival.com
Picture by David Evans Photography
Dealing with claims of what poets can and cannot say
“I entirely approve of rubbish bins and rawl plugs as subjects for poetry,” said poet Alison Brackenbury, many years ago.
The occasion was sharing with her an incident in London where I read poems from my book 'The Game Parade' which is about people involved in farming and their pursuits: beaters, pickers-up, game keepers, farmers.
These are subjects of Swindon writers Richard
Maurice Spillane: Of Poetry Swindon
Jefferies and Alfred Williams, who celebrated our countryside.
I told stories to give context and read the relevant poem, got a few laughs and lots of smiles, made them feel that Swindon should be on their bucket-list.
A woman poet stood up and shouted “Shame!” She said it was a disgrace to write poems about such people and their pursuits in killing animals. Quite a few joined
her, and I realised the smiles I’d seen earlier were more likely grimaces.
I said I hadn’t mentioned killing and mollified the uproar by changing the argument to censorship.
I feigned being affronted by poets who would set boundaries on what other poets can write.
It was poets who took to the barricades for free speech, freedom, and so on and I listed several.
Safe ground, you’d imagine, but my adversaries listed subjects that should not be touched and in the melee duly lost the argument.
I ended with a poem about the death of my dog Stan.
I’m sure the allusion was not lost on them:
Rampant cancer, Those hard words yesterday Like ice-blades, anarchic And invisible. That he shouldn’t suffer Became his death sentence.
Tears dropped as messages, No words, no sound, Just the pain-gape Like a bell without a tongue.
I am sure he knew. He lay down to die, Some type of deep sigh, A huge disappointment That it was at an end.
www.mauricespillane.co.uk
What’s on: www. poetryswindon.com
Mario's: A reputation for quality built over more than half a century
By Barrie Hudson barrie@swindonlink.com
Even in a town so well provided with excellent Italian cuisine, a visit to Mario’s in Wood Street, Old Town, is special.
That is hardly surprising, as the place has had more than half a century to perfect and refine its craft. Founded in 1972, when people were still being sent to walk on the Moon, Ted Heath was Prime Minister and The Osmonds, T. Rex, David Cassidy and Swindon’s own Gilbert O’Sullivan dominated the singles charts, Mario’s has been a much-loved feature of the local dining scene ever since.
Now under new management led by host Zeus, who has been a prominent and respected figure in the restaurant industry for many years, the venue looks set to maintain its enviable reputation for many years to come.
That’s why I was glad when my colleagues and I agreed on Mario’s for a recent lunch.
To reach the cosy cellar restaurant you have to step off the pavement of Wood Street and into a cosy but well-lit gap between buildings, which gives an agreeable sense of heading for somewhere slightly hidden and therefore likely to be a treat.
We were delighted to discover that the lunch menu fielded an extensive range of starters, main courses and desserts, although because our available time was limited we stuck to mains and mentally filed the list of starters and desserts away for future visits - and make no mistake, there will be plenty of future visits if I have any say in the matter.
As many different dishes as there were people in our party were chosen. They ranged from familiar pasta dishes to pizza, not to mention a large prawn cocktail, and every one without exception was rated by the person who ordered it as excellent.
This 100 percent strike rate was down to the food clearly having been prepared by a team who are not only highly skilled but also take a genuine pride in ensuring that everything leaving their kitchen delights whoever receives it.
The service was thoroughly impeccable from beginning to end.
Mario’s is at 7 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4AN. Open from Mondays to Saturdays, it serves lunch from noon to 3pm and dinner from 5.30pm to 10pm.
Tel: 01793 531556.
www.mariosrestaurant.co.uk
Volunteers needed to support inclusive cycling sessions
Monthly column with Becky Cox of Swindon Cycle Campaign.
Do you enjoy cycling? Would you like to help people have life-changing experiences and support your local community? Why not consider volunteering at Moredon Sporting Hub to support inclusive cycling sessions?
At Moredon we aim to provide inclusive cycling opportunities for anyone, no matter their ability. A key focus is providing cycling sessions for disabled adults and children and learn to cycle programmes for all ages. These programmes are run with the support of grant funding and a team of dedicated volunteers. We're always looking for new volunteers, and we can provide a range of volunteering opportunities from regular weekly hours to work experience and corporate days. Training is provided,
Alfie Howlett: Swindon Town FC writer
Branches blooming, evenings extending, weather warming. Spring is certainly here, and it’s a little taster of what’s to come. Swindon should be hoping that their second half of the season surge continues into the next.
It’s quite a nice period in general, but especially for enjoying football.
Thanks to Ian Holloway, that’s exactly what it has been of late.
The Mark Kennedy days have been consigned to the past; when Town’s days were darkest, they could only get brighter.
Swindon have certainly got away with one this season, but in a strange way it appears now that the season has got away with them.
The 2025 form, coupled with solid away performances at Walsall and Doncaster, really has you thinking what might’ve
along with opportunities to join coaching and ride leader courses.
Here's what one volunteer, Pete, has to say: "I love riding my bike and experience a lot of joy from it, but it's something I took for granted before becoming involved in the Limitless programme. It's incredible to see the range of adapted cycles available and it is an honour to be able to volunteer to help disabled people experience the joy that cycling brings to me, it's a highlight of my week."
Currently we are looking for volunteers to support our community cycling programmes and weekday sessions with SEND schools. Key roles of volunteers include:
- Setting up and packing away (e.g. Getting bikes and equipment out of storage)
- Helping to fit helmets
- Helping to fit participants to the right bike for them
- Meeting and greeting participants
- Riding around the traffic-free track, providing encouragement and monitoring the safe running of the session
- Supporting our bike mechanic with routine maintenance and servicing and repairs of bikes and adapted
cycles
We're particularly keen to hear from people who are interested and/or skilled at fixing bikes, passionate about cycling or have experience of working with disabled people and marginalised groups. For more information, get in touch with Community Developer, Becky Cox: email: rebeccacox@britishcycling.org. uk or phone 07515 606704.
STFC: Spring bloom shows potential life LINK FOOTBALL
been. It’s easy to say now, but if Ian Holloway started the season in the dugout, Swindon would’ve finished in the top six.
So, Town must bottle these emotions, prove their worth, and answer our questions next season.
I feel like a broken record saying this at the same point every season, but it’s essential they get the planning right.
They really do have something in Ian Holloway and the majority of the squad.
The 62-year-old has built the foundations with matchsticks, he deserves the chance to create a masterpiece with a toolbox.
For an ownership hierarchy which have reached the point of no return for many, they can’t afford another mistake.
There is an array which I’m wary of. The most obvious is another failure of a summer transfer window.
All of a sudden, Swindon’s transformation has seen the value of their players rocket.
Harry Smith is enjoying the best football of his career. Fighting to top the scoring charts, he will be in demand. Will Wright is a Rolls Royce at both ends of the pitch, creating and consolidating; he will be in demand.
Joel McGregor has the EFL on high alert, performing well beyond his years, he will be in demand.
If at least two of these three players leave, fingers will be firmly pointed at the board and on the pitch momentum could grind to a halt.
My overall fear is of board incompetence blocking the progress on the pitch.
You’d like to think that they recognise the fact that they owe Ian Holloway, having saved their skin.
But the past will tell us we’ve fallen down that rabbit hole too many times.
As much as I’ve enjoyed what feels like a recent renewal in my love for Swindon.
I will not settle for this feeling again.
I should not again be grateful that we’ve turned the season around to achieve midtable mediocrity.
Swindon are bigger and deserve far better.
Spring has given them a taster of what should follow. Now they must grab it.
In March, over 1000 Town fans travelled to table-topping Walsall to see Swindon beat the league leaders.
Because of what preceded, it meant relatively little in terms of the season’s outcome.
Next season beating the team top of the tree must mean more.
