The Swindonian March 2019

Contents That went quick!!!

Now I know its a short month but blimey February came and went quicker than ever, 2 months into 2019 already but the weather is warmer, the evenings are brighter, and I’m not one to wish my life away, but come on Spring.

This month we have a packed magazine with all sorts of topics covered, starting on page 6 Dragons Den Theo Paphitis supports a local business.

Page 10 has a story on the closure of Honda, our biggest employer in the town. This is sure to have a huge impact on all from staff to suppliers.

Page 16 we say a fond farewell to Tyke and Max, whilst the centre page feauters a catch up with Bushwell and Nyberg.

Our regular feature BFT lets us know how they got on when they visited Kaspas, and on page 24 we learn about Zog the famous Dragon visiting the Wyvern Theatre.

If you have any event you want adding into the calendar or have any local community news you want featuring in the magazine and online then drop an email over to getintouch@theswindonian.co.uk

6 BBC Dragon gives boost to Swindon business Theo Paphitis helps local business Open Dawes.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Take part in new events while raising funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

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Honda confirm closure in 2021 Over 3500 jobs to be cut by local and global employer Police dogs retire after successful careers Police dogs bid a fond farewell to the force

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18/19 Catching up with Buswell

and Nyberg The boys bring us up to speed on their latest tour University to deliver Cultural Heritage Institute in Swindon to support the Cultural heritage industries.

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But First Tea! We catch up with the latest installment from our Swindon mum

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World premiere stage adaptation of Zog playing at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre Your local councillors share the latest news around the Swindon communities.

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

FEBRUARY NHS Foundation Trust reminds vulnerable residents to get the flu vaccine

Commissioner welcomes Home Secretary’s visit to Swindon Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson has welcomed Home Secretary Sajid Javid’s backing of Wiltshire Police’s work tackling drug gangs.

The Home Secretary visited Gablecross Police Station on 8th February to meet the Chief Constable Kier Pritchard, Mr Macpherson and officers and staff from the teams who carry out the work around County Lines. Sajid Javid complimented the Force for its work around what is a nationwide issue affecting every police force.

As temperatures have continued to drop, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are reminding those who are eligible to get their free flu jab.

The UK is still in the midst of winter, which brings with it an increased risk of flu and it can be very unpleasant for most healthy people, but vulnerable groups are at risk of developing potentially serious complications of flu, such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Pregnant women, children, adults aged 65 and over, carers and people with long term medical conditions are all eligible for the free flu jab and are reminded to contact their local GP or pharmacist, as it’s not too late to get vaccinated.

The Trust is also still offering free flu jabs for pregnant women when they come in for scans and appointments.

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Angus said: “The Home Secretary’s visit today is a boost to the dedicated staff and officers involved in the whole, complex issue of County Lines. For a small force it shows we are recognised on a national scale – alongside the bigger forces – and that we are punching above our weight on many major issues including County Lines.

“The visit of Mr Javid also cements the on-going work the police and I are doing with Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Council and our other partners which is one of the crucial elements helping to tackle this problem.”

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Council’s Cabinet backs ambitious new libraries strategy

Through the Strategy, the Council has managed to keep all Swindon’s libraries open and has even opened up an extra one at the Swindon Hindu Temple and Cultural Centre at Cheney Manor Industrial Estate.

Swindon Borough Council has renewed its commitment to boosting literacy levels by ensuring libraries across the town reach their full potential.

Instrumental in developing the Strategy have been the town’s parish councils. A number of them have committed to continuing to fund staff in the core libraries.

At a cabinet meeting which took place on 6th February, it was agreed that the Swindon Library and Information Service will be delivered directly by the Council in line with the authority’s pledge to offer opportunities that develop peoples’ skills.

This allows libraries to remain open with staff for extra hours: West Swindon for 16 extra hours a week, Park for 20 hours and Highworth for an extra 15 hours. Opening hours have also been extended at libraries in Wroughton and Old Town.

The Swindon Library and Information Service Strategy aims to transform people’s lives through promoting literacy and a love of reading, helping people develop skills for jobs, improving health and wellbeing and facilitating participation in cultural and literary activities.

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

BBC dragon gives recognition boost to Swindon business

Public speaking and presentation training company Open Dawes Training has received a business boost from retail entrepreneur and former Dragons’ Den dragon Theo Paphitis.

Open Dawes’s MD Chris Dawes tweeted Theo about his business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ and was one of six weekly winners.

The weekly initiative, set up by Theo in 2010, now has more than 2,500 #SBS winners and supports small businesses in the UK. Chris’ standout Tweet to Theo, which caught his eye, was: “By overcoming nerves & building a career as a sports commentator I have been inspired to coach others 6

in public speaking skills – helping them to remove limits and ‘open doors’ in both their personal and professional lives.”

Open Dawes Training runs CPD accredited public speaking and presentation training in groups and for individuals, either inhouse or at Open Dawes’s head office training centre at Groundwell Industrial Estate in Swindon. Chris is also a motorsports commentator, and was recently voted the second favourite in the country, in a national poll.

Business and retail entrepreneur and self-confessed shopkeeper, Theo retweeted the Open Dawes message, putting the Swindon business in front of 500,000 followers.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

The company is now also profiled on the #SBS website (www.theopaphitissbs.com) that is exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners.

“I was totally bowled over to be among six out of thousands to have my message retweeted by Theo,” said Chris.

“It’s great to have Open Dawes Training recognised in this way, by such an inspirational and successful entrepreneur.”

Once a year Theo invites all of the #SBS winners to join him at an event. This year’s event took place on 12th February in Birmingham, which approximately 700 #SBS past and present winners attended.

Among various initiatives and the networking that takes place at the event, Theo also hands out a certificate to each #SBS winner. The event is also a great opportunity for #SBS winners to talk to the #SBS sponsors who are dedicated to assisting #SBS businesses.

Small business champion and Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue Chairman, Theo Paphitis, said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK. My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings.

The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Open Dawes Training every success.”

For more information you can visit www.opendawestraining.co.uk/, call 01793 238259 or email enquiries@ opendawestraining.co.uk.

For further information about Small Business Sunday visit www.theopaphitissbs.com.

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Take your fundraising to new heights for Wiltshire Air Ambulance Adventure seekers who want to get off the ground can take part in new and exciting events while raising funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The charity’s 2019 bumper events calendar includes an abseil, skydive and a Snowdon challenge.

New this year is a 200ft abseil down Avon Gorge on 14th April, plus a triple challenge involving cycling, climbing and kayaking in Snowdonia National Park on 7th – 8th June.

A skydive at Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury, on 2nd June is the other main challenge event.

In addition, the charity’s Ambassadors, Nick and Annette Mason, are once again opening the gardens at Middlewick House, Corsham, on 3rd – 4th August (also raising funds for The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust).

For people who prefer landbased events there are also walking and running challenges to get involved in to support Wiltshire Air Ambulance, including the Devizes Half Marathon on 7th April, the Royal Wootton Bassett Triathlon on 12th May and the Race to the Stones on 13th – 14th July.

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While in Air Ambulance Week, from 9th – 15th September, supporters will be encouraged to dress in

yellow and green to match the colours of the charity’s helicopter and bring £1 to school or work.

For more information and how to get involved in the events supporting Wiltshire Air Ambulance, go to the charity’s website www. wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/ events/

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Honda confirm closure in 2021 – full statement Honda has officially confirmed the Swindon factory will close a year earlier than initial predictions, in 2021.

Honda have announced that it will restructure its global manufacturing network.

This restructure comes as Honda accelerates its commitment to electrified cars, in response to the unprecedented changes in the global automotive industry.

The significant challenges of electrification will see Honda revise its global manufacturing operations, and focus activity in regions where it expects to have high

As a result, Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. have production volumes. As a result, Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd. have informed employees of its proposal to close its Swindon vehicle manufacturing plant in the UK in 2021, at the end of the current model’s production lifecycle. The plant currently produces 150,000 cars per year, and employs approximately 3,500 people. Consultation activity has begun with the affected employees.

The global restructure will also involve Honda’s automobile operations in Turkey. Honda Turkiye A.S. currently produces 38,000 units per year.

The company will cease manufacturing current Civic sedan model in 2021 and intends to continue its business operations. Honda Turkiye A.S. will continue to hold constructive dialogue with Turkish stakeholders during this period.

Katsushi Inoue, Chief Officer for European Regional Operations, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and President, Honda Motor Europe said;

“In light of the unprecedented changes that are affecting our industry, it is vital that we accelerate our electrification strategy and restructure our global operations accordingly.

As a result, we have had to take this difficult decision to consult our workforce on how we might prepare our manufacturing network for the future. This has not been taken lightly and we deeply regret how unsettling this announcement will be for our people.”

Honda’s European HQ will continue to be located in the UK It will be focused on serving the needs of our European customers.

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

WAA drive ahead with Swindon Town FC partnership

A partnership with Swindon Town Football Club will result in a new look and purpose-built Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

The League Two club has chosen Wiltshire Air Ambulance as its Charity of the Year partner, with the aim of raising £12,000 to fit out a new RRV. Town boss Richie Wellens and his assistant Noel Hunt visited Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s airbase in Semington, near Melksham, before Christmas to meet the aircrew and charity staff and were given a tour of the airbase.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s paramedics use RRVs when the helicopter is unable to fly or if it is quicker for them to travel to an incident by road. The RRVs have the same medical equipment onboard that is on the charity’s helicopter.

The new RRV will be branded with the same yellow and green colours of Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s Bell 429 helicopter, as well as carrying Swindon Town’s club crest. The money raised by the football club and their supporters will be used for the livery on the RRV, along with the blue warning lights and emergency sirens, while inside the car the funds raised will pay for the communication equipment and racking for the storage of specialist medical equipment.

Beth Gardner, the charity’s fundraising manager, commented: “Our partnership with Swindon Town Football Club goes back several years and we’d like to thank them for choosing us as their Charity of the Year and raising funds to fit out our new RRV. “The new RRV will be easily recognisable, like our helicopter, when our crew are responding to medical emergencies across Wiltshire.”

Rich Miller, Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s clinical services and ground operations anager, said: “Our new Rapid Response Vehicle has been designed by us and

will enable our critical care paramedics to respond to medical emergencies quickly and it will contain all the essential and specialist equipment they need.” Swindon Town head of commercial Adam Wainwright said: “The Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a magnificent charity and one that Wiltshire can be truly proud of. As a Football Club we too are proud of our association and we are both excited and determined to reach the target of £12,000.

We encourage all our sponsors, partners and supporters to be as generous as they possibly can be to help us to reach the target.

“The RRV will have the same medical equipment onboard as that on the Bell 429 helicopter, so by working together with the target total raised, we will be providing a critical resource which will help to save lives.”

Robins boss Richie Wellens said: “Since I’ve been at the club, I’ve been blown away by how much it does off the pitch and in the community.

This partnership and fundraising effort is part of that and a really incredible effort and goal.

“It was great to meet the guys at Wiltshire Air Ambulance and see the incredible work they do and hopefully the club can continue to help. I’d encourage everyone associated with Swindon to dig deep into their pockets to try and hit the £12,000 target.”

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

“Chronic Kidney Disease” Renal disease can be both acute and chronic. Acute kidney disease normally occurs over a few days and is usually caused by something like an infection.

Chronic kidney disease often occurs in middle aged cats and dogs and has a slower onset.

The kidneys are responsible for excreting waste products, regulating electrolytes in the body, producing certain hormones, maintaining normal blood pressure and fluid balance.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease is the result of long-standing irreversible damage to the kidneys which then impairs the ability of the kidney.

a small percentage of the kidneys functioning.

Some of the signs can be: • Gradual weight loss • Drinking more • Urinating more • Loss of appetite • Bad breath • Occasional/persistent vomiting • Diarrhoea • Weakness/Lethargy

of our clinics to book an appointment. Our nurses are also on hand to offer any advice if you are worried.

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What can be done?

At a veterinary examination which may include blood and urine tests chronic kidney disease can often be diagnosed.

We don’t always know what causes it but some toxins, infections and tumours can be responsible.

Chronic kidney disease is not curable or reversible but with the correct supportive treatment can be managed. This can include a special diet and medication in the form of tablets or liquids.

Chronic kidney disease comes on much more slowly and can be difficult for owners to spot, animals can show mild symptoms over months rather than weeks with the pet coping reasonably despite only

This can help support the kidneys and quality of life can be improved and slow down the progression of the disease. If you are concerned about your pet then please call one 15 15

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Police dogs Tyke and Max retire after successful careers at Wiltshire Police Two of Wiltshire Polices’ most highly regarded police dogs bid a fond farewell to the force last month and are now settling into retirement having devoted years to fighting criminals and protecting our communities.

Having clocked up almost 15 years of service between them, police dogs Tyke and Max have now stepped aside for the new pups in town.

PD Tyke has worked alongside PC Cindy Hargreave since he was licenced back in 2013. Now he has retired, he will continue living with PC Hargreave, who has just started training with a new puppy called Betty.

PC Hargreave describes Tyke as her life saver, after he protected her when a man charged at her with a petrol barrel while she was dealing with another man armed with an iron bar during an illegal rave. She added, “Tyke was the best team mate and partner I could ever have wished for.”

Also hanging up his harness for a well-earned rest is Police Dog Max, who worked alongside PC Tracy Doughty. She became his handler when he reached the age of four.

One of Max’s proudest moments as a police dog was locating offenders involved in a series of burglaries in 16

Swindon, as well as receiving two awards where Max’s skills were pivotal to locating a suspect.

“Max has a very strong presence,” said PC Doughty.

“He’s a big boy with a few battle scars and a very big mouth. His bark is felt deep in your stomach. He has been challenging to work with but he’s a big softy really, and I’ll miss his ‘ verbal opinion’.”

Max will also remain living with PC Doughty.

Tyke’s replacement is PPD Betty, while Max will be replaced by PPD Rudi.

They are currently in training with PC Hargreave and PC Doughty and once they gain their licences, they will be out and about protecting the people of Wiltshire.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Kaspas Desserts gets five-star food hygiene rating

The waffle and ice-cream store was opened in 2015 by businessman Rafi Zaidi.

Mr Zaidi said: “We are glad that the paperwork that caused the rating 4 years ago has been rectified.

Thanks to all of our loyal customers over the past 4 years that could clearly see that Kaspas was clean and hygienic.”

The dessert parlour has remained popular, with residents flocking to the Clarence Street store, which also contains a private party room.

The owners of Kaspa’s Dessert Parlour in Swindon town centre are celebrating after getting five stars in

their food hygiene inspection years after being given a low score due to paperwork discrepancies.

If you fancy a sweet treat the dessert parlour is open from 11am until 11pm Monday through to Saturday, and 12pm until 11pm on Sundays.

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Catching up with Shaun Buswell and Erik Nyberg about their upcoming tour.

In a nutshell, what exactly is the Spectacular Pop-up Folk Orchestra?

Shaun: Well, we’re travelling around the UK from 3rd10th March, creating pop-up orchestras and bands from local musicians. Each night sees us play with 20 or so musicians, and it’s a mix of our own folky/ indie music, some songs with local special guests, and some TV & movie theme tunes.

We have Argentinian conductor Herman Ringer & Australian lead violinist Cecily McMahon joining us for the tour as well, so it’s really going to be a pretty special thing.

How did you two guys meet & come to work together?

Erik : Well, Shaun and I met when we were touring the UK in our bands at the time (Buswell & The Flaming Moes). I think it must be, like, 10 years ago? I don’t know. I am not good with time. I am from Sweden. We don’t have time there. But anyway, we both got on pretty well.

Then one night we played this festival in Glossop and both our bands slept in a pub. Shaun and I stayed up drinking hard booze until the sun came up. The rest is history!

So what about the concept of the pop-up orchestra?

S : Well, I had been doing these orchestra challenges for a little while, and Erik had helped me when I formed an orchestra from strangers on the London Underground & at Glastonbury Festival. We then decided to join forces and started

touring around the UK. It’s tough playing big sounding music with lots of musicians on a budget, and it’s impossible to tour with lots of musicians, but we really wanted to find a way of playing this type of music to people in a unique way. So involving local musicians gives everyone a chance to play and try something different.

Talking of the music, what kind of stuff can we expect to hear?

The tour poster artwork is pretty special. Who designed that?

E : It’s really hard to categorise.

It’s kind of folky, sort of indie.

It’s nice! Then we’re doing all the fun TV & movie themes so it’ll be stuff like Star Trek & Dr Who. And we have an amazing Ondes Martenot (an early French electronic musical instrument) player so this space-related stuff will sound really cool.

S : I think we often get asked about the style of music. It’s been compared to anything from Damien Rice to Arcade Fire. It’s hard to know. We’ve played with acts such as Frank Turner, Foals & Amy MacDonald so I guess it is in the same sphere as those folks, but it’s kind of a bit different. Best thing for people to do is to come to the show and see what it’s all about.

E : Well, I really like Swindon.

Maybe because it sounds a bit like Sweden. But it’s one of my favourite places in the UK and I love the bands you have here.

So we’re really lucky on this tour. We have Canute’s Plastic Army and Tamsin Quin.

Where is the Swindon show?

S : It’s at Level 3 on Thurs 7th March.

S : It’s actually a Swindon based artist! His name’s David Cousens and he does most of our tour artwork. An incredibly talented guy. Well worth checking out www.coolsurface.com to see more of his work.

You mentioned special guests.

Who are they for Swindon?

S: Yeah. Both acts are great and we’re really looking forward to playing with them. They’ll play their own set but then when the orchestra performs, we’ll get them up to play one of their songs with the whole orchestra.

It’s a really unique and special thing. This thing will only happen once so it really is a unique gig.

How can people hear more/pick up tickets?

Best place to go is www.buswellandnyberg.com as all the information is there.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

University to deliver Cultural Heritage Institute in historic former railway works building Royal Agricultural University will deliver a new postgraduate and professional training hub in Swindon to support the cultural heritage industries.

The conversion of the Carriage Works, designed by Metropolitan Workshop, will insert a standalone structure into Unit 11 of

this year. Construction works to create the Institute’s Swindon-based premises will start, subject to planning permission, and

the West Shed – creating offices, seminar rooms, a library and lecture space over two floors.

will provide students with first-hand insight into the complexities of heritage-led regeneration.

The new academic offer will contribute to the Council’s ambition to increase the supply of higher education options available to Swindon residents. Although RAU’s initial offer will focus on a highly specialised range of courses, there is potential for the university’s presence to grow over time.

The Cultural Heritage Institute will start to deliver courses from September

The redevelopment of the Carriage Works builds on the Council’s commitment to finding sustainable uses for its heritage sites.

Plans for the hub were launched by University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) last year in response to the national skills gap in archaeology, and a demand from businesses in the South West of England for CPD courses such as heritage management.

Royal Agricultural University (RAU) joined UWTSD as a local partner in early 2018 but now leads the delivery of the hub to be known as the Cultural Heritage Institute. UWTSD continue to be involved and will be an active participant in the provision of learning programmes.

The Cultural Heritage Institute will be based in a unit within the Swindon Borough Council-owned Great Western Railway (GWR) Carriage Works.

RAU and the Council have completed a legally binding agreement for RAU to take out a 20-year lease within the Carriage Works following the completion of Council-funded refurbishment works.

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The Council completed a first phase of redevelopment last year to provide new flexible office space for small businesses – a facility now known as WorkShed.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

The redevelopment of the Carriage Works builds on the Council’s commitment to finding sustainable uses for its heritage sites. The Council completed a first phase of redevelopment last year to provide new flexible office space for small businesses – a facility now known as WorkShed.

The works planned for the Cultural Heritage Institute form part of a second phase of redevelopment that will also create additional office space and ancillary uses.

Dr Lucy Meredith, Deputy

Vice-Chancellor at the Royal Agricultural University, said: “We’re delighted to be working so closely with Swindon Borough Council on this exciting project.

The transformation of the Carriage Works to a higher education learning hub will provide much easier access to a range of specialist courses from the University, in important areas such as archaeology and heritage management – subjects that are vital to our understanding and management of the environment we live in.”

Dr Geraint Coles, who recently joined the RAU team as Director of the Cultural Heritage Institute, commented: “This project will provide students with first-hand insight into heritage-led regeneration and the complexities involved. With a goal to deliver courses starting in September 2019, this is an exciting project and one that I believe is essential if the UK is to remain a leader in global heritage management.”

Councillor Oliver Donachie, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Prosperity, said: “I am delighted to welcome RAU to Swindon. The University provides a real opportunity to meet the needs of the cultural sector and supports our commitment to work with a number of stakeholders to increase our higher education provision in Swindon.

“This has seen Oxford Brookes expand its presence in Swindon, a growth in Higher Education courses provided by both Swindon College and New College and our continued support of the Institute of Technology bid.”

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

But First, Tea.

Just a Swindon Mum winging my way through life with my boy.

It was another damp and dismal Saturday, when I decided I may as well stay in bed for the day with only Netflix, tea and a stash of biscuits for company.

Napping was inevitable, venturing out to have a hot bath a possibility and a browse through the Chinese take-away menu later on was probably the most strenuous activity I had planned…sounds blissful, right?

Alas, just a dream I had before being woken abruptly at 6.10am by a 5-year old ‘Pirate’ shouting ‘aaarrrrgggghhhh!’ in my ear, demanding breakfast and wanting to know our plan for the day. Sigh. Tea definitely needed.

‘not soft-play, not soft-play, not soft-plaaaay!’).

After remembering that my Pirate still had some birthday money to spend, I suggested a trip to the toy shop (let’s add to our very modest collection, why not, I can always just get rid of the sofa to make room).

This was met with mild approval/a request that we go to the park first, followed by lunch, and then the toy shop. Yes Sir.

that it’s a restaurant that only serves desserts, his huge smile and jumping up and down pretty much convinced me (despite that screaming voice warning me of impending sugar highs – oh just shush, look how happy he is!). So off we went, with much chatter about what might be on the menu.

With new toys purchased in less than 10 minutes and the rain still pouring down, I tentatively suggested we go to ‘Kaspas’ for a very special treat. After blowing my boy’s

Kaspas is conveniently located in the town centre, just down from the Central Library and opposite the Wyvern Theatre. Perfect for a post-shopping treat or ideal if you’ve just been to the cinema at Regent Circus. Their website says that their menu ‘boasts a mouth-watering

mind with the explanation

selection of ice creams,

Surely a few weeks post-Christmas and birthday I don’t need to make exciting plans? I mean we have enough blinking toys and games to re-open Toys ‘R’ Us, and 5 is the age where they can totally entertain/feed/take care of themselves, yes?

Apparently not, damn. So while I lovingly prepared his lordship’s choice of Weetabix and crumpets and desperately waited for the kettle to boil, I tried to wrack my brains for something to do (with a voice inside screaming 22

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

gelatos, waffles, crepes, milkshakes, smoothies and sundaes’ and that a visit to one of their parlours ‘will change the way you view dessert.’ Well it certainly did for my excited Pirate, who could barely contain himself at the choice, and indeed at the bright pink American Diner-style décor which definitely puts you in the mood for something sweet.

He was pretty much openmouthed looking at the impressive and colourful display of ice creams and cakes, and for once a little speechless. Once shown to our table we had the task of deciding what to have, which really is not easy, especially when you’re 5 years old and would quite happily sample everything on offer.

Mine had just the right amounts of lemon and sugar and there was a perfect balance of fruit and chocolate on the other so that it was moreish but not too sickly (yes I did have to have a little taste).

It didn’t take long for our plates to be clean, and I can safely say that we both thoroughly enjoyed our choices. I do think the service could have been a little quicker, but that’s my only fault. My Pirate’s verdict?

‘That was amazing, can we come again Mummy?’

Rarely do I get such an enthusiastic response so I think it was a hit.

I’d possibly not repeat that level of sugar consumption just a couple of hours before bed-time wind-down (whoops), but would I go back? Definitely. And if you have a sweet tooth or little ones that do, get yourself to Kaspas.

Email me: butfirstteamum@outlook.com

BFT x

He eventually settled on a strawberry and chocolate Crepe, with a fruit smoothie to drink (hooray, that’s at least 3 of his 5-a-day), while I opted for a very modest (but my favourite) Crepe with lemon and sugar.

Our drinks came quickly but we did have a bit of a wait for our Crepes. It was a busy Saturday afternoon however, so understandable.

Both desserts came with a generous helping of soft-serve ice cream and were attractively presented. I couldn’t fault them in taste either – warm, perfectly cooked and delicious!

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debut) as Zog, Emily Benjamin (Bat Out Of Hell) as Princess Pearl, Robert Ginty (Salome and Coriolanus, Royal Shakespeare Company) as Sir Gadabout the Great and Euan Wilson (Stick Man, UK Tour) as Madame Dragon, with Dixie McDevitt (National Youth Theatre alumni) as Ensemble.

A first look at the cast and puppets of Zog at the Wyvern Theatre.

The full cast and creative team is announced for the world premiere stage adaptation of Zog, based on the book by Julia Donaldson with illustrations

by Axel Scheffler,

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playing at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre from Wed 10 to Thu 11 April as part of a UK Tour.

The cast features Elliot MacKenzie (professional

The cast of actor-puppeteers will bring the world of Zog to life with handcrafted puppets designed and created by Little Angel Theatre co-founder Lyndie Wright.

Large in size, and keen in nature, Zog is so eager to win a golden star at adams

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know.

Zog tries so very hard, perhaps too hard, and he bumps, burns and roars his way through years one, two and three.

Luckily, the plucky Princess Pearl patches him up ready to face his biggest challenge yet…a duel with a knight, Sir Gadabout the Great! Zog promises to be roaring fun for all ages.

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler are the UK’s number one picture book pair and are creators of many modern classics, including The Gruffalo which is in 75 languages.

Zog was first published in 2010 and won the Galaxy National Children’s Book of the Year Award. It has gone on to become a perennial bestseller.

On Christmas Day 2018, Magic Light Pictures premiered an animated film of Zog on BBC One featuring an all-star cast, following their award winning films The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man.

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Community News THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Old Town & East Wichel Corn Exchange Great news - progress on the Corn Exchange! The deed of variation has now been signed. Nadine, Jane & Neil are looking forward to a planning submission

by SCEL (Swindon Corn Exchange Limited) by the end of September 2019.

There will be a public consultation and participation in the Design Review Panel process in advance of that. Nadine, Jane & Neil will continue to work with council staff and the developer to get the best possible scheme delivered.

Parking Residents have contacted Nadine, Jane and Neil with parking concerns. There are the ongoing concerns in the Croft area which they are working with Council officers, residents, the school and sports centre to find a way forward.

Nadine and Neil have set up a working group to look at ways to improve the situation.

In Marlborough Park, where rubbish has been 26

left uncollected because of parked vehicles blocking access to roads, Nadine and Jane will continue to work with Council officers, Nationwide and residents to get this resolved.

Parking restrictions and a day change for waste collections are being explored. A holistic approach is key, so as not to displace the problem.

SBC parking teams are able to enforce the blocking of the dropped kerbs with the owner of the property’s permission.

Parking enforcement can be contacted on 01793 463772.

Croft Road Nadine, Jane & Neil requested a speed survey following residents’ concerns and this was carried out in January. Once the data is available, they will work with Council officers to try to reduce incidents of speeding.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Linda Kasmaty, “Speaking as Chair of the Friends I am really pleased that a solution has been found so the £20000 savings could be made without reducing the opening hours. I would encourage people to support the museum and art gallery by visiting more often and attending talks”.

Wichelstowe East Wichel now has a dentist and a shop!

Co-Op in Staldon Court is open 7am to 10pm, 7 days a week. Welcome assets to the community in addition to the primary school, community centre and Bayberry Pub. Great to have the Hall & Woodhouse pub near Waitrose open too.

Any local issues, please contact: Jane Milner-Barry & Nadine Watts & Neil Hopkins (parish councillor) Old Town & East Wichel Nadine Watts 07595 071381 Jane Milner-Bary 07864 839746 Neil Hopkins 07799 866396

Eastcott Labour Team Ward Update Labour’s Eastcott Parish Team

In May you will be able to vote for your councilors on the South Swindon Parish Council. Your Eastcott Labour team standing for the parish are Patrick Herring, Dave Griffiths, Sam James, Lydia Masseron and Marina Strinkovsky.

application and to pursue the developer to restore the building. We believe a solution is possible that saves this important building and respects Swindon’s Victorian heritage.

Cllr Imtiyaz Shaikh said “I’m pleased residents in Eastcott will be able to benefit from this initiative of the Parish Council to encourage health and wellbeing in the local community.”

Cllr Paul Dixon said, “The developer should not have removed the roof of the school without planning permission.

Victoria Road Post Office

The Labour team live across all parts of Eastcott, and have experience working in education, local businesses, the legal profession, volunteering in local community groups, Swindon City of Sanctuary and the co-operative movement.

I will continue to push the council enforcement team to get the developer to protect the building and to submit new plans that help to preserve the school building.”

Trainee barrister Sam James said ‘’We’re all absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to campaign for people in Eastott, and are committed to ensuring that the voice of local residents is heard on the parish.’’

This year’s Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon will be on September 22 and will start at 9.30am at the County Ground and finish on Commercial Road.

Clifton Street School Update In our last Swindonian article, we made mention of a planning application proposing to demolish the old Clifton Street School and instead erect 10 new flats. We are campaigning for the council planning department to refuse this

Nationwide Half Marathon Discount

Labour-run South Swindon Parish Council has agreed to contribute £10 towards the entrance fee for anyone who lives in the area.

If you plan to enter the race more details can be found at www.newswindonhalf.co.uk The £10 discount will be limited to the first 500 runners from within South Swindon Parish area.

A planning application has been submitted to convert the Old Town Post Office on Victoria Road in to a bar.

You can view the planning application online by accessing the Council’s Planning website https:// pa1.swindon.gov.uk The reference number for this planning application is S/19/0109 Get in touch with us if you have any views on how the Council can tackle this increasing issue.

Councillor Paul Dixon, Mobile: 07454 736 769

Email: p.dixon8@ntlworld.com

Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh, Mobile: 07894543786 Email: imtiyazshaikh135@ yahoo.co.uk Councillor Patrick Herring, Phone: 07986994309 79869Email: patrick.m.herring@googlemail.com

27

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Keypoint Public Inquiry Update From Barrie Jennings At the time of writing this article the inquiry in to the Keypoint Incinerator has just finished.

Thank you to the 120 residents who attended the opening day of the inquiry and around 10 to 20 residents who have attended subsequent days.

Several members of the campaign group who are opposed to the Incinerator (SKIP), led by the Chair Robert Ayres, have attended every day of the inquiry and deserve particular thanks. I have also attended every day of the inquiry and spoke on several occasions.

Our local Borough Councillor, Roger Smith, also spoke against the Incinerator application, however it is disappointing to note that our two other Borough Councillors failed to either attend or speak at any point in the inquiry.

Given the importance of this issue it would have been nice to have had all our local representatives supporting local residents and speaking against this application. I am grateful to Cllr Des Moffatt who presented a strong argument against this application on behalf of Labour Councillors.

The two key arguments that seem likely to determine whether this application will be approved or not is 28

whether the Incinerator and its chimney stack will diminish the local environment due to the scale of the building and whether there is a local need for such a waste treatment plant.

Members of SKIP presented a fantastic case as to how the Incinerator would diminish the local area. It was pointed out that the Incinerator chimney stack will be more than 6 times the height of the Dunelm Mill building and will become one of the landmarks people will see when driving in to Swindon from the east.

I also made the point that it will be a huge visual intrusion on residents, with some Stratton residents living less than 200 metres from the proposed site.

The lack of need for a waste disposal centre was the main reason why Swindon

Council rejected this application. It was pointed out during the inquiry by SKIP and others that Swindon already has a waste treatment centre at Cheney Manor and therefore did not need another plant.

The Lead Inspector has said that now the inquiry is over he is hoping to make a decision towards the end of March, however he did stress that it could be later than this. Either way, I will endeavour to keep you updated with any news.

Contact details: Although I am a Stratton Parish Councillor, I am writing in a personal capacity and my views are not necessarily those of the Parish Council’s. If you have any local issues or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me.

You can call me on 07944740562 or email

1strattonjennings@gmail.com

Rising to the challenge – ancient hillforts and wildlife to be given new lease of life THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Thirteen majestic iron age hillforts and 332 hectares (820 acres) of their surrounding landscape across Dorset and Wiltshire are to be given a new lease of life as part of a generous award of £800k made to the National Trust by Postcode Earth Trust, raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The £800k award will be used to fund two other National Trust conservation projects, along with continuing support for Heritage Open Days.

The £100k project will help protect all 13 Scheduled Monuments, dating from over 2,000 years ago, which are of national importance not just for their archaeology, but for their diverse fragile habitats which are homes to threatened butterfly

species including the brilliantly coloured Adonis blue, the small Duke of Burgundy and the orange, yellow and brown chequered marsh fritillary.

The unusual sites include Hambledon Hill and Hod Hill in Dorset, which date from 5,500 to 2,000 years ago. At Hambledon an iron-age hillfort was built on the main hill. The defences can still be seen today and together with its three ramparts encircling the hill is one of the most impressive archaeological earthworks in southern England.

The work to be carried out ranges from erosion repairs to paths and ramparts, to improving fencing so that cattle can graze in the summer and hold sheep

during the winter.

Volunteers will help with ragwort removal in the summer months, and there will be green hay spreading at some sites to enhance the diversity of wildflower populations.

The remaining £700k awarded by Postcode Earth Trust and raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, will support the National Trust’s wider ambition to restore a healthy, beautiful more natural environment.

Conservation projects include wildflower meadow and apple orchard restoration at the Brockhampton Estate in Herefordshire and the Trust’s national Riverlands programme, including the River Bure in Norfolk. * Photo - (C) Sussexphoto.com

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The United States of America The United States of America is a vast country and some people set aside a sizable chunk of the year to make sure they get around to seeing all it has to offer.

With literally hundreds of cities to choose from, I’ve picked out some of the most favourite Stateside city break spots.

New York City Many newcomers to America can’t resist getting New York ticked off first and that’s no coincidence.

The iconic city is home to one of the world’s most famous skylines, pulling in the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, whilst the city streets are packed with enough to see and do to easily fill two weeks with the likes of the sprawling Central Park and dazzling Times Square.

There are magnificent museums covering so much more than just traditional history and art, such as the Troll Museum or Museum of Food and Drink. The variety and quality of street eats here is sensational (pizza,

bagels, cheesecake, ramen, hot dogs for a start), not to mention the world-class music venues (Madison Square Garden, Bowery Ballroom, Radio City Music Hall).

Everyone should seize the opportunity to take in a Broadway show too and right now, you can catch peerless productions of Hamilton, The Lion King, Chicago, Wicked and The Book of Mormon.

San Francisco, California

Over on the west coast, San Francisco has a little bit of everything, from the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to the haunting seclusion of Alcatraz Island.

San Fran’s microclimate means that it can be blazing hot in the glorious 1,017acre Golden Gate Park, yet pouring down just three miles east in the Mission district.

Any foodies will love it in San Fran, which is viewed as the nation’s food and wine capital to many.

In the 1970s, it was here that Berkeley chef Alice Waters started the farm-to-table obsession and you won’t struggle to find top-notch restaurants across the city.

Wine lovers are in for a treat too, with the Sonoma and Napa Valleys less than two hours away, meaning travellers can taste wines from some of the best estates in the country.

Los Angeles, California Less than six hours’ drive south of San Fran sits glitzy Los Angeles. After taking the near-obligatory selfie with the infamous Hollywood sign, visitors to the City of Angels can easily pass a sizable chunk of the day at Griffith Park Observatory, catching a ballgame at Dodger Stadium, partying on Venice Beach, or strolling down Santa Monica Boulevard - one of the most vibrant stretches on the West Coast, spanning almost the entire width of the city.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

Film fans will also love Disneyland Park and Universal Studios Hollywood.

A trip to California’s largest city isn’t complete without sampling the tacos – or any of the city’s Mexican food for that matter – but other great food you need to try includes the french dip (essentially a meat sandwich with gravy on the side) and ramen from the Little Tokyo area.

curately encapsulates the city’s over-the-top nature, with many themed hotels, musical fountains, and replicas of the Egyptian pyramids, the Venetian Grand Canal and Eiffel Tower.

Many world-famous restaurants and chefs have opened up shop here too.

Vegas is also good for retail therapy and we’d be amazed if you could name a designer not represented across the city’s multitude of shopping malls.

Chicago Cubs – the Lincoln Park Zoo with more than 1,000 animals, and Garfield Park Conservatory – one of the country’s largest greenhouses.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Chicago, Illinois

They say ‘what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’ but you’ll want to tell everyone about your time in this truly extraordinary city. Plonked in Nevada’s Mojave Desert, Las Vegas attracts the bulk of its visitors with the glitz and glamour of its casinos, such as Caesars Palace, Treasure Island, and Park MGM.

We’re heading back east for our final city: Chicago, the third biggest US city behind New York and Los Angeles, which offers the energy and towering high-rises of the Big Apple but at a less frantic pace. More and more people seem to be choosing Chicago because the city pulled in a record 55 million visitors in 2017. The Windy City will blow you away with the 24.5-acre Millennium Park, Wrigley Field - one of the oldest ballparks in America and home to

Jet off for a city break to the US by contacting me and to take advantage of exclusive benefits including a 24-hour duty office and full financial protection.

But there’s more to Vegas than just gambling.

Stretching for more than four miles, the Strip ac-

Music is massive here too.

Maxwell Street is widely accepted as the birthplace of Chicago Blues, which bore a legendary influence on the entire blues genre and bands like Led Zeppelin, The Animals and The Yardbirds.

Make your next travel arrangements with a knowledgeable, trustworthy and friendly travel expert.

I deliver a personal, professional and bespoke travel service. Contact me: allan.trinidad@travelcounsellors.com

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

32

Musical Musings

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

I guess with the demise of a certain music column in a certain local newspaper, this collection of musical musings will become even more essential to the original music fan.

with Dave Franklin

Yes, in the blink of an eye, that lasted 18 years, the band that gave us Place Your Hands returned to the musical fray last year all grown up and pushing a new album.

If you want to catch a bona fide legend then Level III on 17th March has the answer when none other than Eric Bell is in town 50 years after he wandered into a Dublin

So if you want to relive the 90’s this is the gig for you.

Two great bands go head to head in Old Town on 14th with Lewis Clark and The Essentials bringing their soulful, dexterous and effortlessly cool blends of folk, blues and acoustica to The Victoria whilst just up the road at The Tuppenny you will find The August List (pictured), a band with the uncanny knack of authentically replicating the sound of a dustbowl era jug band.

Local troubadour Jol Rose plays the part of perfect support act.

bar and encountered the two musicians with whom he would go on to co-found Thin Lizzy.

Not trying to blow my own flugelhorn or anything but if you are looking for music beyond the tsunami of classic rock covers bands, backing track soloists, open mic. nights and karaoke you might want to make sure you grab a copy of The Swindonian as soon as it hits the streets.

And a good place to begin is with a gig that has already been given a hearty mention elsewhere in the magazine, that of Buswell and Nyberg’s Spectacular Pop-up Orchestra at Level III on 7th March.

As always the night sees our two musical heroes creating a one-off night of new music and strange sonic machinations using only locally sourced, free-range musicians.

Throw in the hushed nordic tones of Last Box of Sparklers, the deft folk-blues of Canute’s Plastic Army and the gorgeous roots-pop of Tamsin Quin and you have a real gem of a night. At the same venue the following day none other than Reef hit the stage.

And finally on 28th The Tuppenny is again the venue for the coolest of music, this time courtesy of The Illustrations and a set of lo-fi flower-pop reminiscent of The Beatles arm-wrestling Brian Wilson for the last tab of acid but only after the drifting and spacious sound of Dreuw has set the mood.

33

Stage Coach

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // MARCH 2019

With Ben Thomas

the Swindon Art Centre.

Fresh from a recent West End run “Marilyn”, by Breakthrough Theatre, presents their new onewoman show exploring the glittering yet grievous life story of the iconic film star.

“We are all of us stars and we all deserve to twinkle.”

The Shoebox Theatre has moved home. January saw them pack up and leave their old home in Theatre Square to move to new roomier lodgings in the Milton Road Health Hydro’s old Victorian laundry.

Brummie legend Frank Skinner will be visiting on 20th and 21st March with his first live dates since his sell out 2014 tour.

A cast aged 3-18 years present an anarchic, exuberant and explosive show for the whole family.

Even more excitingly March 9th sees an exclusive one-day workshop at the Shoebox from Michael Corbidge, Senior Voice and Text Associate at the Royal Shakespeare Company.

“Voicing Shakespeare - A Text Detection Workshop!” offers paying punters the chance to explore the text of the Immortal Bard under the guidance of an RSC Specialist.

“Brush up your Shakespeare; and they’ll all kow-tow.’

Two comedy giants will be striding the Wyvern stage to celebrate the arrival of the vernal equinox: 34

Finally, on 30th March, ‘Rising Aspirations Performing Arts present “The Wind in the Willows” at the Wyvern.

“There is nothing - absolutely nothing, half so worth doing as - simply messing around in boats!”

Meanwhile, on 28th March, Honorary Swindonian (well, his parents lived here) Julian Clary presents a night of his trademark glorious filth with his latest show “Born to Mince”.

“Prepare to give him a big hand as he explodes on to the stage.”

On 21st March a legend of a different ilk pays a call to

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