April 2011 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

Swindon art trail tells the true Easter story with the help of Fairtrade chocolate eggs. See page 51

NOW OPEN at The DeVere Village See page 27

Tickets on sale for festival 18: pages 21 - 23

No. 347 April 2011 • Circulation 27,000

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Youngsters at Redoaks Primary School in North Swindon who created a giant artwork ‘in relief’ based on the best jokes they could find. Read about the project on page 3

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Mayor calls for St George support: page 10

Roman run into record books for Downs group: page 32

All bookish at Brook Field: page 17

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swindonlink.com • April 2011

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Life begins at 40 in North Swindon Haydon Wick over 60s’ club celebrated its fortieth birthday in style on 21 March at Blunsdon House Hotel, with afternoon tea and entertainment from the band of the University of the Third Age. Established in 1971 as a registered charity, the club helps keep the elderly population of Haydon Wick parish mentally and physical active, as well as maintaining good social contacts. Pat Cutting, who has been chairperson of the club for the past 11 years, said “it’s rewarding to offer companionship and security. The club ensures a wider social circle of friends and there are always people to rely on in an emergency.”

The over 60s committee, left to right, Joan Tomes, Trevor Tomes, David Luker, Mary Miller, Jean Morgan, Pat Cutting (Chair) Ron McGiffie, Jan Luker, Mary Parsons (Vice Chair) - who was on the original founding committee 40 years ago, Rod Hartnell, Mike Warr, John Morgan, Jean Warr

According to the last census, Haydon Wick has one of the highest populations of over 65s in the country. The club receives small grants from Haydon Wick Parish Council but is largely self-funded through raffles and fundraising. Membership stands at over 100 people, who enjoy talks, slideshows, films and musical performances each Monday at Haydon Wick Social Club. Monthly outings between May and October attract up to sixty members, and twice a year between 40 and 60 members enjoy a weeklong break together. Club secretary Michael said, “new members are joining all the time but it's a bit hard to attract men after they retire. Women are happy to take part in social activities after they turn 60, but men seem reluctant to join in until they’re in their 70s.

“Over the last few years club members have been teaching each other how to use the internet; many now receive the minutes by email.” Pat said that the over 60s gives Haydon Wick its village feel. “We’re very lucky that senior citizens are well catered for in this community, and we have a very supportive parish council who help in many ways like providing a minibus which brings members from their homes to attend meetings and is used by members for hospital trips.” Michael added, “we welcome any new speakers, entertainers and offers of financial assistance, and we are looking for a company to host our brand new website.” For details call Pat Cutting on 349029. To offer a talk at the club or assistance with website hosting, mail Michael Warr: m.warr@ ntlworld.com

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18/03/2011 12:16

swindonlink.com • April 2011

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Our March front page included a major error in suggesting Thamesdown Transport was offering a £1,000 prize to readers who sent in a survey about using the bus on any route, but particularly the 15 or 15a. In fact the prize on offer is £100 and we apologise if readers felt misled. The closing date is 31 March. The survey and prize draw entry form can be found and printed from www.swindonlink.com

7 May Toothill festival to focus on long term plans

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Getting things going in Toothill, back from left, Jaginder Bassi, Pam Pixton, Martyn Cowell, Julie Batson, Ruth Kiddle, Norris Kiddle, Dennis Mackie, Rachael McBeath; Stan Frost. Front, John Hill, Tina Mackie, Emma Churchill, Steve Wakeﬁeld

Ruth Kiddle, from the organising group, said it will be a festival to introduce residents to the National Lottery Big Local Project which has awarded £1 million to develop community projects in Toothill over the next ten years. “The lottery made the announcement that our area had been selected to be part of the Big Local last July, but it would only start later this year after a national grant-giving trust had been set up. “Community group members have been meeting since November and we felt nine months was too long to wait to get this project going, so we applied for a small amount of money to hold a ‘coming-together’ event, so that everybody knows about this exciting opportunity for Toothill.”

She added that Toothill Primary School had agreed to bring forward its summer fair to Saturday 7 May so that a combined event can take place on the school ﬁeld, at Toothill Church and in the community centre. All the traditional stalls, fun attractions, demonstrations and refreshments expected at a community festival, will be put on by the school, church and community groups like Toothill Scouts and junior youth club. Organisers will also be asking residents what they think of the area and how new initiatives could be launched to develop the community in the longer term. To offer to help organise an attraction, mail Pam Pixton: ppixton@ swindon.gov.uk or call 466502.

Comic Relief in Redhouse

Paolo and Monica welcome you to their new Family Restaurant & Grill (formerly The Foresters) Common Platt, West Swindon Specialising in locally sourced free range meat, fresh seafood, fresh homemade pastas Daily specials, ﬁne wines, local ales and great Italian coffee

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Children at Redoaks Primary School took part in project to design a giant 3D collage using toilet rolls wrapped in comic strips, woven together with wool and hundreds of jokes contributed by the youngsters. The 25 foot artwork in the school hall took seven days to create with help from parents, after school and during lunch breaks. • School sends Lent collection to earthquake survivors - see page 51

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18/03/2011 13:54

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Tadpole Farm will have low impact on West says developer The West Swindon Forum on 14 March heard that the proposed 1,700 home development at Tadpole Farm, north of Oakhurst, will only generate 60 extra vehicles during peak hours. John Ilet of Crest Nicholson, outlining the project at the meeting, said that according to Swindon Council’s traffic modelling programme, by the time vehicles reach the northern end of Mead Way, the volume of extra trafﬁc will be insigniﬁcant. However Kevin Fisher from Shaw said, “I can’t see the difference between the Crest proposal and the

Taylor Wimpey plan for 800 houses at Ridgeway Farm, in Wiltshire, except it’s twice as big and in Swindon. Everybody knows the gridlock on Mead Way; it’s unbelievable to think Crest’s plan will not add to the trafﬁc congestion problems we face in West Swindon. “Our local councillors have stated that the only housing development Swindon needs is Tadpole Farm and the area to the east of the A419/ A420. They tell us we do not need the Ridgeway Farm development. But, because that area is in Wiltshire, the people of West Swindon have no choice on the Ridgeway Farm

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development. Therefore the only choice is Ridgeway Farm AND Tadpole Farm or just Ridgeway Farm. I call on our elected ofﬁcials to place the Tadpole Farm proposals on ice until we have a clear decision on Ridgeway Farm.”

Officers will be visiting areas that need attention in April. Coordinator Jane Dudley said, “please call if you know of a litter hotspot that needs council staff to clear up.” Jane added that she would like to hear from anyone interested in joining the community tidy-up. Litter hot spots wanted Call her with information on The Swindon Community Safety Partnership is organising a week of areas to be cleaned up, or to find action from 9 to 14 May to spread out more, call her on 466508 or mail: crime prevention advice, offer cycle csp@swindon.gov.uk Details of the week will be pubsecurity marking, and clear up litter licised in the May Link. and graffiti.

Site makeover for Shaw association

Shaw Residents Association (SRA) out of date web site has been relaunched. The association provides a forum for people living in Peatmoor, Sparcells, Nine Elms, Middleleaze, Shaw and Ramleaze to work with statutory authorities, voluntary organisations and businesses to protect and improve the environment and facilities for residents. The SRA meets on the ﬁrst Monday of the month at 8.30pm to discuss and resolve local issues, in the village hall adjacent to the doctors surgery at Shaw Village Centre. Residents are welcome to attend and discuss issues that need attention. For details mail: shaw-residents@virginmedia.com www.shawresidents.org.uk

Call for St Andrew’s Ridge residents to speak out

Mark Dempsey, councillor for Park North and South and resident of St Andrews Ridge, is keen for people in his home community to have a clear understanding of the impact of upcoming developments at Tadpole Farm and Blunsdon Stadium, and to have an opportunity to make their views known. He said, “it’s important that at Tadpole Farm and Blunsdon people know what’s happening Stadium. She said, “Salzgitter Drive in their area, and to have a strong is a narrow road with tight bends voice to be able to safeguard their that buses already struggle to get community, particularly with re- through, but with Oakhurst resistgard to traffic safety and ensuring ing traffic through their community the right level of infrastructure is and Blunsdon Parish Council saying no to traffic up the old A419, put in place.” Fellow resident of St Andrews it’s the only other route.” To lend your support call Mark Ridge, Kerry Swinyard, is concerned about the impact on Salzgit- on 07890 411638 or mail: mark@ ter Drive of potential developments markdempsey.org.uk Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead, Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial copy for May by 1 April Published: 23 April Copy for June by 6 May Swindon Link

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“The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.” The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Swindon Publications Ltd. cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford

18/03/2011 13:56

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Is power coming to your community?

Have you noticed more influence at a local level since 2009?

Swindon Council has to take a new, more joined up approach based on working closely with residents of the town to deliver its services in the future, according to a report to the cabinet on 16 March. However, Lisa Hawkes , chair Places is about changing Council chief execuof Swindon Civic Voice (SCV), exthis fundamentally.” tive Gavin Jones wrote In his 16 March cabi- pressed amazement at the report. that this can only be net report he writes, ‘vi- “SCV has repeatedly requested to achieved if the council brant local democracy is meet the leader of the council to accepts that ‘the key asessential and it must be discuss community involvement in sumption for developexercised responsibly the One Swindon process but have ing a new relationship and appropriately. We not had the courtesy of a response. with local people is that must always respond The Swindon Strategic Partnership as many decisions as possible should be devolved to as to need, but we must also recognise, is directly influenced by the council when we design services, that people and parishes are another form of local a level as possible.’ The cabinet agreed to discuss a have capabilities that can help to government. “Even though the council thinks new way of working with groups reduce long term dependency. ‘A genuine partnership based on the Connecting People, Connecting across the borough like the Swindon Strategic Partnerships, parish coun- trust between public service provid- Places policy is working, I don’t cils, ward cluster meetings before ers and Swindon’s communities will see evidence that Swindon accepts conclusions are debated at the full result in more resilient communities that the input of local community ‘The council of the near future will groups are central to this process. council in July. In the January 2009 Link Mr Jones have to be, through necessity and de- People want to get involved - after described the big changes Swindon sign, very different from now. It will all its what the government is calling Council was introducing by setting need to move away from services for - but they need that involvement up ‘clusters’ of wards under its Con- designed around organisational acknowledged and acted upon by necting People, Connecting Places structures and statutory regulations their elected officials. “Swindon councillors and officers policy - to give residents the chance to seamless working across all partto meet and discuss local issues with ners. It will need to enable decisions must learn that they have to do more the councillors representing their about services to be made as close as than tick boxes and pay lip-service areas. He said, “this is a five year possible to the people who receive to community groups and local acproject to change the culture of the them. It will need to challenge exist- tion groups.” council. The criticism that the council ing behaviours, assumptions and Have you been involved in Connecting People, Connecting Places clusis detached from the people it serves ways of working. The full report is available at: ter meetings in the last two years? has been valid in some situations. Mail: publisher@swindonlink.com Connecting People, Connecting http://bit.ly/fX0PVP

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swindonlink.com • April 2011

BBCs Graham Mack to chair big picture planning public meeting Oakhurst Residents’ Association (ORA) is calling residents and community representatives across Swindon to discuss the seemingly unchecked growth of the town, including 1,700 homes proposed at Tadpole Farm. BBC Radio Wiltshire early morning presenter Graham Mack has agreed to chair the meeting which will take place at Oakhurst Primary School, Pioneer Road on Wednesday 6 April, 7.30pm. ORA secretary Stephanie Exell said early April is a good time to bring together people who will be affected by the proposed development. “The concept plans put forward by Crest Homes during March will be fresh in everyone’s minds. In April Swindon Council is consulting on its new planning Core Strategy to allow another 19,000 homes to be built. Our meeting will give people from different areas the opportunity to talk about the major planning issues facing the town. “The Core Strategy identifies North Swindon as one of the growth areas, but you have to bear in mind that the council’s master plan for Priory Vale only 10 years ago showed no sign of more housing at Tadpole Farm.” Oakhurst resident Brychan Travers added, “this meeting is what the coalition government wants to see - people discussing the destiny of their towns. I would urge as many people as possible to come along and air their views.” http://bit.ly/oakhurstresidents

Council growth plans on show

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Planners from Swindon Council are presenting the draft ideas included in its Core Strategy for the town at a series of meetings to be held on: 26 April: North Swindon Library 26 April: Wroughton Library 3 May: Parks Library 5 to 7 May: Brunel Centre 10 May: Highworth Library 12 and 13 May: Central Library 16 May: West Swindon Library The document sets out what the council believes is the future need for housing, employment, transport and infrastructure. It says 25,000 new homes are needed by 2026, of which 6,050 have been built. Land to the east of the town close to the A419, next to Coate Water, at Wichelstowe and Tadpole Farm are identified as sites which could accommodate the other 18,950. However the Core Strategy

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does not include the 800 houses being proposed in Wiltshire on the border of West Swindon, nor the speculative application to develop at Grange Park, off Hook Street. Read the Core Strategy at: http:// bit.ly/swindonCS

Hook Street appeal An appeal against Swindon Council’s rejection for 175 houses off Hook Street, next to Grange Park and Lydiard Park, will be heard by a planning inspector between 4 and 8 April. The council argues that the site has never been within Swindon’s defined urban boundary and residents say it should become part of Lydiard Park. There are fears that permission to build will trigger further applications for up to 2,000 houses between Lydiard Park, the M4 and Hook, to the west.

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18/03/2011 13:59

swindonlink.com • April 2011

North Swindon cluster says ‘no’ to housing until promises are kept

New petition to stop Coate housing

At a North Swindon council wards ‘cluster’ meeting on 8 March a resolution was passed that there should be no further development in North Swindon until promised and future infrastructure is in place such as roads (Thamesdown Drive extension to Great Western Way), community facilities and schools. Mr Hailstone said the demand North Swindon cluster council- about more housing added to lors were also asked to present the North Swindon before promised for the council to reconsider its resolution to a full meeting of Swin- infrastructure has been provided. A approach to planning applications don Council to show their support rapid transit bus system to reduce as a result of meetings at a comfor communities in North Swindon. traffic coming out of Tadpole Farm munity level was important. “The Richard Hailstone, chair of Hay- is really just window dressing when idea of the ward clusters is to bring don Wick Parish Council, who pro- we’re still waiting for the extension together people to discuss what’s posed the motion said, “the February to Thamesdown Drive which was important to them. If these meetings are to mean anything, the council cluster meeting in West Swindon promised over ten years ago. “Swindon Council has to consider has to pay attention to the very real passed a resolution objecting to housing development at Ridgeway the impact of all the pockets of hous- concerns being expressed.” Farm in Wiltshire and this was dis- ing development being proposed cussed at a full meeting of Swindon but they have to be looked at toCouncil which resulted in a letter of gether, alongside the huge growth objection being written to Wiltshire that has already taken place - the impact on the people already living Council planning committee. “Our meeting discussed concern here will be considerable.”

Crest proposes new village with its own green and restricted road access

Ideas for 1,700 homes, employment land, community facilities and public open space at Tadpole Farm to the north of Oakhurst were put on show in March by developer Crest Nicholson, in advance of a detailed planning application later this year. The Crest concept design sees housing built around a high street, complete with a village green, commercial outlets and a primary school. There will be substantial open space to the west next to the River Ray and to the north next to the Chappell Farm Steph Exell of Oakhurst Residents’ Association and landfill. Allotments are Sarah Foster of Crest at one of the consultation meetings east using the tunnel to Blunsdon also included. Crest is proposing to reduce traf- Hill under the A419, and through fic flow to and from Tadpole Farm two single lane roads onto Tadpole by building a rapid transit bus route Lane to the south. See more details and reaction at through Redhouse past Isambard. Vehicle access will be via the north http://bit.ly/slink4

Core Strategy at Redhouse Swindon Council planner Phil Smith will be talking about the draft Core Strategy planning proposals at the Redhouse Residents’ Association meeting on Thursday 31 March, 7pm, at Isambard School. www.redhouseresidents.org

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Campaigners objecting to development between Coate Water Country Park and Great Western Hospital were given heart on 8 March when Swindon Council’s planning committee deferred a decision on whether 890 homes and employment land should go ahead. Despite having raised 52,000 names on a petition, they have launched another one calling for protection of the landscape and character of the land next to Coate Water at www.petitiononline.com/ coate/petition

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swindonlink.com • April 2011

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Apart from complaints of excessive noise from the fun fair at Link Centre in March, which Swindon Council environment officers are investigating, the police team in West Swindon say there was no violence reported and no arrests directly attributable to the event. However, at the West Swindon Forum on 14 March, PC Steven Heading up the two police teams in Yates, beat manager of the Neighbourhood Police team covering West Swindon, PC Turner and PC Yates the southern part of West Swindon, properties in Freshbrook were to be said the police re-arrested five of evicted on 23 March. Colleague PC Tom Turner said the 13 individuals detained at last September’s fair for breaking the thefts of lead continue to be a strict bail conditions not to attend problem. “Recently thieves have raided St Peter’s Catholic Church the fair this year. “It was a very positive outcome and bungalows with attached flat for us and those who broke their roof garages have been targets. bail are now electronically tagged. Please secure wheely bins if left We’d like to thank the West Swindon outside because they’re used as Centre and Link Centre, as well a way to climb onto the roof and as Bradon Forest and Greendown for transport of the stripped lead.” In March PC Turner met with schools for helping spread safety messages and a clear warning that West Swindon publicans to reanti-social behaviour is not toler- launch the defunct pub watch scheme so that information about ated.” PC Yates added that drug dealing banned individuals can be shared. To contact the two Neighbouris still a concern in parts of Toothill and Freshbrook but assured the hood Police Teams in West Swinpublic that the police continue to don, mail: westswindonnorthnpt@ crack down on the problem. He said wiltshire.pnn.police.uk or call 0845 two heroin addicts living in adjacent 408 7000.

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18/03/2011 14:03

swindonlink.com • April 2011

North PC achieves Divisional Commander’s Award

PC Troy Smith of North Swindon Neigbourhood Policing Team has received a Certificate of Merit for his involvement in the investigation of a recent window cleaning fraud in West Swindon, for which the culprit was sentenced to four years imprisonment. He reported that He called upon in February a cannaresidents to take bis factory in Blunsmore responsibildon was busted, ity for their dealrecovering cultivaings with anybody tion equipment and who turns up on a potential drug the doorstep. “This yield of £45,000. is an example where The culprit faces a home owners must Crown Court trial. not make themselves Troy said that the into victims by takpolice team needs ing basic crime prevention steps. Make sure anyone residents close to new construction who offers a domestic service has sites to be vigilant and report immeproper ID, don’t agree to make diately any suspicious behaviour advance payment, and make sure they might witness at any time. the work has been carried out to Thefts of copper and lead have increased dramatically. He said, your satisfaction.” The police team are noticing an “the thieves turn up in panel vans increasing number of break-ins to usually at night and break into parked cars in North Swindon, properties under construction. It and opportunistic thefts of bicycles is likely they come into the area and other equipment that has not from other counties, so we need to been properly secured. Troy added, be alerted immediately in order to “satnavs, mobile phones, CDs and prevent further theft.” To contact the police team coverstereo fascia left in unlocked cars are an invitation to opportunists. ing North Swindon, call PC1810 Make sure to lock your parked car, Troy Smith on 0845 408 7000 (ext: and securely stow other equipment 735814 or mail: troy.smith@wiltwherever possible in your garage.” shire.pnn.police.uk

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Next year’s mayor makes early start on fundraising Swindon deputy mayor Ray Ballman will become the town’s mayor from 20 May, but she’s appealing for people to come forward to support the charities she will be backing during her year in office. These are: the Open Door Day Centre for adults with lear ning disabilities in its 25th year and Swindon Cares. This consortium of businesses in the town is raising money for the Rowdy Bunch Youth Club for teenagers with disabilities, and Football for the Disabled, based at Swindon Town Football club To get her year going early coun Ballman is asking for people to take part in the Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown Walkley Walk on a twenty mile section of the Ridgeway Path overnight in June, and also the Swindon Half Marathon in October. To step up for Ray, mail her: jbswin@ yahoo.co.uk

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Get ready for the royal wedding with St George’s Day outing

The Mayor of Swindon Rex Barnett is calling on Swindon residents to get into the mood for the royal wedding party on 29 April by coming together a week before to celebrate St George’s Day in the town centre on Saturday 23 April. The mayor has recruited scouts, soldiers and community groups to escort a 5 metre tall St George down Regent Street to Wharf Green and The Parade for fun and entertainment, including a band fronted by BBC Radio Wiltshire’s Graham Mack, accompanied by Swindon Council chief executive Gavin Jones on lead guitar. Also on the bill are Swindon’s pint sized pop stars The BiSkitts, Swindon Mayor Rex and Graham Mack with members of Samba band, solo 12th Swindon Air Scouts, 6th Swindon St Saviours artists including 2010 Cubs and 1st Wroughton Cubs Swindon Talent contestants, and Britannia Majorettes. May 2010. Rex and Sandra Barnett Morris dancing and a mummers have been supporting the Prosplay will give the day a traditional pect Hospice in its thirtieth year, ﬂavour and it will close with Swin- The Willows counselling service, don’s U3A choir leading rousing CALM, Swindon children’s cancer favourites like Jerusalem, Land of and leukaemia movement, and Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia. Goldenhar Family Support. Proceeds from collections will go The day is backed by inSwindon towards the Mayor of Swindon’s and Forward Swindon. To take part charity fund which currently stands in the parade mail: MikePringle@ at about £35,000 donated since forwardswindon.co.uk

Freshbrook’s royal wedding party

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Freshbrook Community Centre is holding a royal wedding street party on 29 April – and residents are invited to take part. There will be a traditional kings and queens fancy dress competition, a bouncy castle and family games, set against big screens following Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding in London. Families can just turn up, bringing a plate of food to share at lunch. In the evening there is a ticketed family event, with hog roast and disco, as well as entertainment from some of the groups that meet at the centre. Neal Aplin, centre committee member and event organiser, is keen for as many people as possible to join in. “Why waste an extra bank holiday? Let’s get the community together and celebrate a national event.”

Where were you for the last royal jamboree? See celebration shots marking the Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2002 at The Link image gallery at www.swindonlink.com June 2002: Jake Hynd, Emily Loveridge, Scott Palthorpe, Hannah Mitchell and Luke Hynd at the now closed Windmill Hill Primary School in Freshbrook

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12 swindonlink.com • April 2011

Returning home to run a marathon

Steven George, 28, from Westlea, who lives and works as a journalist in Beijing, will be flying back from China to run the London Marathon on 17 April to raise money for mental health charity MIND. In his email to The Link he wrote, “I know there’s a lot of strife in the world, both home and abroad, and as I write Japan has been engulfed by an earthquake, tsunami, and potential nuclear disaster. Maybe you’re reading this and wondering why my running a marathon concerns you – I know I would be. “The world is a crazy place, but Mind do a great job of remedying that. Mental health is a widely misunderstood issue, yet increasing numbers of young people are affected by metal health problems. “The charity is one of the few that has the skills and nationwide reach to help those who need Steve running the Great Wall marathon last year it most. They’re undervalued, and I wanted to Entries are wanted for the support their work.” 26th Chiseldon Primary School Help Steve with a donation via: 5km Run & May Fair on 22 May. See entry details at http://uk.virginmoneygiving. http://bit.ly/fcwgX0 com/SteveGeorge

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18/03/2011 14:12

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Summer trip to the sailors’ equivalent of Everest

Swindon social media businessman and champion sailor Al Keck, from Ash Brake, spent much of January on the adventure of his dreams, exploring the southern oceans and Antarctic coastline as part of the crew of Uhuru, skippered by his sailing pal and co-champion Steve Powell.

Al at the bow, staving off an iceberg complete with seals basking in the summer sun

Al learned to sail aged 12 at South Cerney Outdoor Education Centre, and has since raced all over the UK and Europe, winning the Irish National Championship alongside Steve in 2009. “Steve’s current expedition is to sail the longest way round the world, covering 5,400 nautical miles in total, over a period of 5 to 7 years,” said Al. “It’s the greatest way to explore the world. But the southern ocean is the most feared and revered of all open water, renowned for towering waves and high speed winds.” For this trip the crew enjoyed near perfect sailing conditions. Al

added, “Antarctica is an amazing untouched area of our planet. It isn’t owned by any one particular country, but many countries maintain a presence there for the sake of any oil that might be found.” He also expressed thanks to his wife and 8 month old baby for giving him the chance to make the trip of a lifetime. http://blog.mailasail.com/uhuru/153 • See the full story and more pictures at www.swindonlink.com • On 11 March Al used a satellite phone to contact Uhuru off the coast of Chile to warn them of the tsunami after the earthquake off Japan.

Vivienne Hallett from The Bramptons, Shaw holding The Link in front of Christchurch Cathedral in New Zealand, just six days before the spire toppled during the earthquake which devastated the city in early March. Viv had travelled to another part of the country when it struck and has now returned to Swindon.

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14 swindonlink.com • April 2011

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Date change at The Ridgeway School Tuesday 26 April will be a normal attendance day for staff and pupils at The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College in Wroughton. The teacher training (Inset) planned for that day will now take place on Friday 15 July when the school will be closed.

All inclusive play complete at Westlea

A project to provide a range of playground equipment to allow physically disabled pupils to play with their able bodied friends at Westlea Primary School has provided a huge increase in opportunities to interact .

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‘The Great Escape’ at Greendown School 11th April – 15th April 2011 9.30am - 3pm 9 - 13 years (current school year 5 to 8) £55 a week

Run by fully qualified PE teachers children will have the opportunity to play a variety of sports such as football, netball, hockey, badminton, volleyball, gymnastics, rounders, cricket, athletics, dance, Danish long ball, hand ball, ultimate Frisbee and Dodge ball. Places are limited. To book a place, please complete a booking form available from the school or download from www.greendown.swindon.sch.uk/

For further information, please contact Greendown School on 01793 874224

Ben Morris on board the wheelchair swing close to the wheelchair roundabout

Marla Carroll, head of Special Resourced Provision, is delighted by the support the school has received. “We now have a cradle seat swing, a wheelchair accessible swing and a roundabout, a picnic table, and games mounted on fences at a height suitable for a child in a wheelchair. “It has taken over a year to achieve and I’m delighted that ﬁnally the inclusive ethos of the classrooms has been extended into the playground. Seeing the happy faces on all the children as they play alongside each other is wonderful. We would like to thank GWR Kidz, Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown, Aiming High Inclusion Fund, St James Place Foundation, and Blackfords Landscaping. Together they provided over £33,500 in funding and work in kind.” A grand launch is being planned.

Marla’s thoughts have now turned to fundraising for a nurture room and indoor sensory equipment. See more pictures at www.swindonlink.com Marla Carroll with children at the cradle swing

Hosts to international partners Westlea Primary School will welcome eighteen teachers from eight European countries, as well as half a dozen pupils, at the end of March as part of the Comenius exchange programme. Headteacher Suzanne Seaton said delegates were travelling from as far as Greece, Hungary and Turkey. “It’s part of a project that brings a group of European schools together looking at the history of the arts, including paintings, sculptures, monuments, music, and dance through the ages. The children research and then share information

1-20 April 11.indd 14

and teachers experience education systems and share good practice. “Each project lasts for two years. This one is new but it’s the third that Westlea has been involved in. It’s fully financed by the British Council and no funding whatsoever comes from the school budget. “We’re very excited about the visit and proud to present our wonderful school, its very special pupils and our beautiful country to the many delegates from across Europe.” The next exchange will see Westlea teachers travelling to their partner school in Turkey.

18/03/2011 12:27

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Fired up with Spanish ideas

Brimble Hill Special School in North Swindon celebrated Spanish week in February, including music, art and cookery with an Iberian theme.

enjoy

grow perform

develop Brimble Hill theme week organisers, from left, Sharon Saunders, Rachael Foster, Ros Warrington with youngsters in traditional costumes

Teacher Rachael Foster said the idea of a themed week arose after Spanish music group Gypsy Fire had the children in raptures earlier in the year. “The children loved dancing to Gypsy Fire so we decided to have them back and to run a whole week with a Spanish theme, ending in a grand ﬁesta day where all the children and staff dressed up in very Hispanic black and red.” The children created canvasses in

the style of Miro, tasted Spanish pastries and tortillas, danced flamenco and learned Spanish songs including La Bamba, Chocolate Molinolo and the Mexican Counting song. “Everyone was very excited about the week, and the staff enjoyed a Spanish lunch of their own on the Thursday,” said Rachael Gypsy Fire returned to the school to put a big Ole! into the final grand fiesta.

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16 swindonlink.com • April 2011

GUITAR & KEYBOARD LESSONS

Swindon school awash with colour for Holi festival

THEORY OF MUSIC

Arsenal Soccer School Easter Course for boys and girls aged 5 to 15 years 12, 13 and 14 April, 10am - 3pm daily Isambard Learning Campus £17 - 1 day; £32 - 2 days; £42 - 3 days ‘Booking Buddy’ discounts available.

Over 25 years experience

Players Development Centre for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years Wednesdays, 5pm - 6pm: 27 April to 25 May Orchid Vale Primary School Free introductory session on 27 April £18 per child for 5 weeks (block booking only)

All ages from beginners to advanced pupils

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01793 331450 07501 066717

For details and to book, call 07872 579864 / 07872 580270 www.playerssoccerschools.co.uk

The Kirsty Farrow Dance Academy CLASSES TODDLER MUSIC AND TAUGHT IN MOVEMENT FULLY EQUIPPED PRE SCHOOL (BALLET, DANCE STUDIOS BY MODERN AND TAP) BALLET QUALIFIED ISTD, MODERN RAD AND LCM TAP TEACHERS MUSICAL THEATRE

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Staff and pupils at Orchid Vale Primary School held a religious education immersion day at the end of February with a colourful day of dance, story-telling, henna art and food to mark the spring festival of Holi.

The Blackthorn School of Photography Digital image-making and black and white printing based at our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade Evening, day and weekend courses for beginners and advanced photographers www.photography-courses.com Tel: 01454 416937 or 07920 116492

Dance tutor Dorothy Clarke with, from left, Joseph Gunter, Frasier McAllister, Ella Todd, Megan Vanes, Anushai Soomrani, Keiron Buchanan and Joseph Atcherley

Teacher Emma McCarthy said, “religious education is a compulsory subject in schools and is important for understanding other cultures and beliefs. Encounter days like this, not only teaches the vital skills of empathy and respect, it brings the subject to life.” Dinesh Patel of the Swindon Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education and Sagar Shah of the Hindu community visited the school to share information about

the festival and answer questions from the children. Indian dance teacher Dorothy Clarke taught the children a colourful scarf dance which mimics the festival practice of throwing powder paint at each other to bring joy and colour into the lives of others. Joseph Gunter was enthusiastic about the excitement of the day. “We learnt a lot about how Hindus say thank you for their harvest and for springtime.”

‘A Quality Education for a Lifetime of Opportunities’ Broad Hinton Church of England Primary School is a village school situated in a favourable rural area a few miles south-west of Swindon. We were founded in 1743 by Thomas Bennet and taken over by the LEA about 100 years later. Over recent years we have extended our facilities to accommodate four mixed-age classes, a large hall where hot meals are served, a multi-purpose unit housing a pre-school facility and a conservatory area for individual or small group teaching, including a multisensory learning library for parents and carers to access resources for learning at home. Everyone knows each other throughout the school, from the oldest to the very youngest, staff, parents and children alike, giving us a warm family atmosphere. Our professional and enthusiastic staff provide a safe and secure environment and a creative and stimulating curriculum.

We are able to accept children in Reception through to Year 2 and you are warmly invited to make an appointment to visit us. Please call Mrs E Floyd, Headteacher on 01793 731262 to arrange a time. www.broadhintonschool.org Positive comments about Broad Hinton Primary: ‘A good school which prides itself on the good care, support and guidance it provides for the pupils. Teachers provide stimulating activities that enthuse and excite the pupils’ ‘Pupils demonstrate very good levels of confidence and very good skills in independence, self-management and team work’ OFSTED July 2007 ‘The school is an incredibly caring community where pupils know how to give and ask for support. Parents feel valued and welcomed and there are good and effective links with the local church.’ Church of England Inspection July 2007

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swindonlink.com • April 2011

Book characters brought to life

Children at Brook Field Primary School, Shaw celebrated International Book Day on 7 March with children and staff dressing up as their favourite characters and whole classes took up the theme of a particular book.

Last year headteacher Melanie Sancto was so convincing as Cruella D’Ville that some smaller children had to be assured that there was nothing to be frightened of. This year she took on the more friendly persona of Minnie Mouse.

See which characters you can spot here, including teachers from left, Jon Stowe as Willy Wonka and three umpah lumpas, Dan Clarke, Nikki Marvell, Sarah Backwell, with Mrs Sancto

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Swindon author short-listed for top award

An illustrated book by former Westlea School headteacher Neil Grifﬁths is one of four short-listed for the Dundee Picture Book Award after being discussed and reviewed by 800 children in the Scottish city. Fatou, fetch the water tells the adventures of a girl going to fetch water from the village well. Neil said, “From my work in Gambia where I sponsor a number of schools I wanted to show how children live there. “The nomination is a huge honour; I only selfpublish so don’t get the exposure of books from big publishing groups.” The winner will be chosen in June. Read the full story with more pictures of Neil in Gambia at http://bit.ly/ Neil reading his book to children from slink2 Westlea Primary in March

Swindon schools need governors

A national charity has teamed up with Swindon Council in a drive to recruit new school governors. The School Governor’s One-Stop school governance as it is an opShop (SGOSS) is an independent portunity for personal development charity that works throughout - volunteers acquire new skills and England, aiming to tackle the 40,000 gain a broad knowledge of areas such governor vacancies across the coun- as HR, ﬁnance and the education try. With empty seats on governing system. The local authority also probodies across the borough, this could vides a training package to schools, be your chance to make a real differ- so there is plenty of opportunity to make the most of the role. ence to a local school. Being a governor is a chance to Governors are collectively responsible for the strategic management meet new people in the community, of a school and therefore crucial in and make a substantial difference to ensuring progression and planning the lives of local children. No specialfor the school’s future. Meeting on ist knowledge is required, and you average around once or twice a do not have to be a parent – all that month, the governing body acts as is required is the time to attend 1 or a critical friend to the headteacher, 2 meetings a month, and the desire oversees the budget, and is also to make a real difference. For more information and details responsible for appointing senior members of staff. It’s a challenging of how to apply, call Lizzie Ibbotson and varied role, but is not without on 020 7288 9536 or mail: lizzie.ibsubstantial beneﬁts for the volunteer. botson@sgoss.org.uk www.sgoss.org.uk Many employers encourage

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Swindon Shaw Irzana Golding 01793 686112

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Contact Sarah Watson on 01793 524112 or 07825 543529 before 8pm

18/03/2011 13:20

18 swindonlink.com • April 2011

Pram club caters for families across the generations

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

l An

independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years l Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year l Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds l High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses l Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

A Haydon Wick baby and toddler group is still going strong after 33 years - and now some of the children who used to go are returning as adults, with their own youngsters. Lynda Gough, who has been coordinating St John’s Pram Club for 30 years, said, “it’s run by the church for the community. Mums who used to attend tell me it was a life-saver when the area was being built; they met others who became lifelong friends.” Lucy Newman came as a toddler with her mum Pat, and now brings her own children, Jake, aged 22 months, and five Three generations at Haydon’s pram club. month old George. “LivPat and Lucy with Jake and George ing closeby in Redhouse, it was natural I would bring them to an article for us and the response the club. I loved coming as a child convinced us that the pram club is twenty eight years ago and my two still important to families in North really enjoy playing with the other Swindon. children. And they get to see their “We provide family support for grandmother because my mum is those who have moved to Swindon one of the volunteer organisers.” and don’t see relations so often. Pat said she helped run the club There’s always somebody to talk when Lucy was a toddler, and to, share experiences and get help.” now helps in retirement. “There The Pram Club is holding a speare several grandparents including cial Easter session on Monday 4 some grandads at the club. There’s April which includes a short special a lovely caring atmosphere.” children’s service followed by a Lynda added, “we welcome all ploughman’s lunch. parents and childcarers. Last year The Monday drop-in runs from numbers dropped and we looked 9.30am to 11.30am during term time at whether there was still a need for and costs £1 per adult. a group in this area. The Link ran For details call Lynda on 724129.

Entertainment for all offer Many people may want to participate in celebrating a child’s birthday - family and friends, babies, children - but how can everyone join in? Jenni Saunders of Debutots, has come up with a great interactive idea.Based around a story about a child’s favourite animal she comes armed with music, games, puppets and bubbles. With adults’ help, babies and older children get involved jumping about as different animals and popping bubbles. Parents can dress up and decorate the room to match the occasion or just relax in the knowledge that all they need to do is sort out some food. Debutots has a wide range of imaginative party packages. See the advert at the top of the page for contact details.

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18/03/2011 14:17

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Nursery songs gets kids moving for record-breaking attempt

Children, parents and staff from Headstarts Nursery at Moredon Children’s Centre and Moredon Primary School nursery class joined in with the Chatterbox Challenge record-breaking attempt in March for the most people singing Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes simultaneously across the UK in multiple venues.

The Guinness world record attempt supported by NHS Swindon speech and language therapists aimed to raise awareness about communication problems which affect many young people. Centre manager Kay White said, “sixty six children took part on a chilly day, but it was a lot of fun. We kept warm by practising the song several times to make sure everybody knew the actions, for the record attempt and then for the photograph.” www.chatterboxchallenge.co.uk

Sharing the caring needs more support

A project to help families with disabled children is seeking new volunteers who can give parents an occasional but much needed rest from their caring responsibilities. “The role of a short break carer Run by Swindon Council’s Family Placement Team, the Home is rewarding and enjoyable, but we & Away Scheme also provides need more people to come forward children with the opportunity to so we can help even more families.” Carers come from a wide range of enjoy different experiences, gain some independence and develop ages and backgrounds They share a love of children and a willingness new friendships. Coun David Renard, Swindon’s to help a disabled child realise their cabinet member for children’s ser- potential. Caring can be anything vices, said, “the short break carers from a few hours a week to a weekin our Home & Away Scheme do a end stay once a month. Training is fantastic job in giving the families given and an allowance is paid for of disabled children a much needed expenses. There are more details at www. break. They also provide an environment for disabled children to swindon.gov.uk/homeandaway make new friends and enjoy dif- or call the family placement team on 465700. ferent experiences.

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & gardens Easy access and safe parking For information call: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

A high quality day nursery situated in West Swindon at Windmill Hill Business Park, close to the M4 Junction 16, offering a happy, sociable environment where every child is treated as an individual.

d e an m o C

see OPEN DAY

Wednesday 20th April

hildren

Disabled C utcomes for

Improving O

Home & Away is our family-based scheme designed to support parents of children with disabilities by providing children with the opportunity to enjoy different experiences and develop new friendships. For more information please contact Swindon’s Family Placement Team on 01793 465700 or visit the website at: www.swindon.gov.uk/homeandaway

1-20 April 11.indd 19

• For children aged 6 weeks to 5 years • Open from 7.30am to 6.00pm, 52 weeks per year (except public holidays) • Full time and part time places • Large garden for all ages • Fully inclusive, including all meals, baby milk and nappies

For more information please contact us: Windmill Hill Day Nursery Whitehill Way Swindon Wiltshire SN5 6NX

Tel: 01793 877646

Email: info@childbase.com www.childbase.com

• CCTV throughout the nursery

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The

20 swindonlink.com • April 2011

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The Springboard to Confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years. Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing, co-ordination appropriate to his or her age. Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills. Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.

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Giving mothers the chance to write

Liz Brackenbury is launching Mums the Word for women who want to pick up a pen, or express themselves through their keyboard. Liz has secured a grant from our own mums, our personal stories Swindon ArtsWords to run eight of wanting to be a mum, childbirth, evening sessions, twice a month realities of being a mum, fostering, at Lower Shaw Farm starting on 7 step parent, or even as a surrogate, we all have a story to tell. April, 7.30pm to 9pm. “This group will provide encourMother of seven Liz said, “the sessions will be free and mums can agement to women who may have drop in, or attend them all. Its aim never written before, who may be is to bring women together from all nervous and lacking in confidence walks of life to write about their own to express their thoughts on paper. unique experiences of motherhood Mums the Word will provide the space and time for those who need and what it means to be a mum. “I hope we can create a warm, to get started, and for those with supportive and nurturing envi- some experience with writing about ronment that allows women the their lives.” For details call Liz on 832715 or opportunity to share and encourage each other to put pen to paper and mail: bizzybs@btinternet.com share the journey that encompasses • Mums the Word will also meet on all that motherhood means to each 21 April; 5 and 19 May; 2, 16 and of us. 30 June; 7 July “Whether it be relationships with

Soap Parlour supplies locally made goodies As Mother’s Day and Easter approach the newly opened Soap Parlour has just the right seasonal gifts on offer. Based at Studley Grange Craft natural soap making, she runs natuVillage, the venture has been ral cosmetics courses. There are launched by mother of four Stepha- drop-in soap making sessions on Saturdays, during school holidays nie Francis, 26. She said, “we’re an independent and on bank holidays. Children’s soap and fresh cosmetics shop with and teens’ birthday party packages all bath and beauty items handmade are available, including lipbalm makon site daily. Our products use ing and facial masks. Stephanie offers group discounts natural ingredients and are suitable for even the most sensitive of skins. to family centres, charities, hen and I also offer free consultations for office parties. Call in to see the wide selection of gift sets available. people with allergies.” See the advert on page 30. Along with adult workshops in

Attractions for Springtime

There is a host of fun on offer for families over Easter - and a chance to treat mum on Sunday 3 April. Roves Farm Visitor Centre near Highworth is offering all mums a free day out at the farm when accompanied by a paying child on Mother’s Day. Special willow craft sessions will be held for mums, which the children always like to help with. Roves Farm’s animal races will also begin on 3 April. Animal Manager Pippa Burr said, ‘we have renovated our animal race track with small jumps and the animals even have teddy bear jockeys, which will make it much more fun. On Mothers Day the goats and sheep will be racing in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer.” From Saturday 9 April until Sunday 26 April there will be a chance to find the elusive Roves Farm rabbit on the Easter Bunny Chase. Children’s craft sessions will offer visitors the opportunity to snip, stick and decorate Easter cards with pictures and fluffy chicks to take home. Other activities include feed-

1-20 April 11.indd 20

ing a wide range of farm animals, a petting corner, free tractor and trailer rides. There is also an indoor big bale stack with tunnels, a bouncy castle, a slippery slide, ball pond and toy tractors. Smaller children will love the indoor heated soft play area and sandpit. See the Roves advert on page 25.

Free Easter eggs on offer

Studley Grange Craft Village close to West Swindon is increasing the range of animals to view, not least the gang of meerkats who have been happily reproducing. Three babies have joined the troop of ten. Two new Kunekune pigs are to be found in the animal enclosure and an exceptional number of butterflies are expected to hatch out in Butterfly World next to the craft village from the end of March. Every child who visits over the Easter period will receive a chocolate egg and there will also be a separate Easter egg hunt. See the Studley Grange advert on the left.

18/03/2011 14:18

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Festival 18 to the fore in May

When it’s Spring in Swindon, it’s also the start of the festival season and tickets are now on sale for events at the 18th Swindon Festival of Literature. With its line-up of novelists, poets, politicians, philosophers, scientists, storytellers, sportsmen, historians, comedians, artists and activists, it will put a spring in your step. The festival is a celebration of ideas: serious, fascinating, and funny. Going to the festival is like Launching No.18 at Central Library on 17 opening a book, when you March, from top, coun Gary Perkins, Matt Holland, and 18 year old Maisey Saunders start reading, you never quite From Spring Bank Holiday, know what you will discover. This year, like all the others, the Monday 2 May until Saturday 14 festival offers tremendous entertain- May, there will be events at midday, ment, exploration and ideas galore, teatime, and in the evening, carefully for all ages and tastes. It sets out spaced and placed to enable you to to prove that when readers meet attend almost every one. The 40 page festival programme writers, and writers meet readers, enjoyable, interesting, challenging, is available from libraries and inforworthwhile, unpredictable, amusing mation centres. For a taste see the diary listing on the next two pages. and memorable things happen.

Volunteer pics in the frame

‘Picture Perfect’, a photography exhibition showcasing volunteering in Swindon is touring libraries in the town with stops planned for Highworth: 25 March to 1 April; West Swindon: 5 April to 12 April; Wroughton: 12 April to 19 April. Organised by Volunteer Centre Swindon and vinvolved Swindon, volunteers working for some of the 250 charities in the town have been recording the vast amount of community involvement that goes on daily. The exhibitions are free to attend and a great way to find out about the volunteering opportunities available in Swindon.

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Viva La Diva in April, in aid of breast cancer research

Ladies of all ages are invited to Swindon’s first female empowering Viva La Diva Show on Saturday 30 April at Steam Museum. a lot of pampering inThere will be an cluding new hairstyles, all day programme nail treatments and of catwalk and hair massage. shows, inspirational Organised by Swinspeakers, Swindon’s don Elite and Find Your Top Model competitions sponsored by Triumph, stalls, Diva, Samantha Scott, owner of Find demonstrations from fashion de- Your Diva, explained, “this is the first signers and make-up artists from time we’ve put on anything of this local businesses and colleges, a scale but the time is right - we want kids zone dedicated to mini-divas, to raise Swindon out of the fog and celebrate women, the backbone of and children’s dance shows. Ladies can enjoy makeovers and our community. “We will also be supporting the fantastic Breast Cancer Campaign. We hope women will have a great time and walk out of the event feeling good about themselves, beautiful inside and out.” The show runs from 10am to 4pm. For tickets, at £5, call 07948 372 965. www.vivaladiva.yolasite.com Left, Viva La Diva organisers Rachael Booth and Samantha Scott

21-52 April 11.indd 21

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22 For tickets, phone venue. See details below.

Monday Bank Holiday 2nd May DAWN CHORUS 5.30am Lawn Woods, High Street, Old Town Tel 01793 771080 MAGGIE HUMPHREYS, CHERYL HEYNE on walking 2pm Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel 01793 770401

MARK BOYLE & JULIE HILL 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 MADELEINE BUNTING 12.30pm Royal Oak, Cues Lane, Bishopstone Tel 01793 790481

ROB PENN, ANNA CIPULLO on cycling 6pm Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel 01793 770401

MARTIN BELL 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Tuesday 3rd May

BONNIE GREER 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

HENRY HEMMING 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

IAIN McGILCHRIST 7.30pm Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel 01793 466556

GAVIN PRETOR-PINNEY 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

INFORMATION:

PAUL FARLEY & BATTERED MOONS 7.30pm Studio, Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

KATE REW 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Tel 01793 466454 email litfest@lowershawfarm.co.uk

JIM LEARY 7.30pm Central Library, Regent Circus Tel 01793 463238

DOMESTIC CHERRY 7.30pm Studio, Arts Centre, Devizes Rd Tel 01793 614837

www.swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk

Saturday 7th May

JANE JOHNSON 7.30pm Central Library Regent Circus Tel 01793 463238

YOUTH SLAM! 11am Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Wednesday 4th May KATE WILLIAMS 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 JAMES GEARY 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 MATTHEW SYED, MATT ROGAN, MATTHEW NORMAN 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 SIMON SCARROW 7pm West Swindon Library, Link Centre Tel 01793 465555

Diary 2011

Thursday 5th May LEWIS WOLPERT 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

MICHAEL WOOD 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Friday 6th May

BRUCE TULLOH, PAUL SINTON-HEWITT on running 4pm Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel 01793 770401

FESTIVAL

ROBIN HANBURY-TENISON 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

SWINDON SLAM! 7.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Sunday 8th May CHILDREN & FAMILIES DAY 10am – 4pm Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon Tel 01793 771080 THE WAY BACK HOME 12 noon & 3pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 SALLY MAGNUSSON 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 JOHN SPURLING on LISZT 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

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Monday 9th May

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MICHAEL JACOBS 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Thursday 12th May

JOHN HEMMING 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

ALISON BAVERSTOCK 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

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JOHN GIMLETTE 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

LIFE WRITING 2.30pm Studio, Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

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HARRY HILL 7.30pm Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square Tel 01793 524481

RICHARD WILKINSON & KATE PICKETT 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

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Tuesday 10th May

ECONOMICS OF HAPPINESS film 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

NEIL GRIFFITHS 11am North Swindon Library, Orbital Centre Tel 01793 707120

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STEPHEN WYNN 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

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For tickets, phone venue. See details below.

SIMON BRETT 7pm Highworth Library, Brewery Street, Highworth Tel 01793 463500

IMAGES OF SWINDON 7.30pm Central Library, Regent Circus Tel 01793 463238

FESTIVAL

Friday 13th May

PATRICK HOLDEN 7.30pm Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon Tel 01793 771080

PETER SISSONS 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

DAVID CONSTANTINE & STUART EVERS 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

VICTORIA COREN 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

Tel 01793 466454

THINK SLAM! 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

www.swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk

SWINDON SPEAKERS – SHORT STORY 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

INFORMATION:

email litfest@lowershawfarm.co.uk

Saturday 14th May

Wednesday 11th May

GETTING PUBLISHED 12.30pm Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon Tel 01793 771080

JACKI RODIKIS 12.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

STIG OF THE DUMP 2.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

KATE FIGES & JOANNA KAVENNA 6.30pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

FESTIVAL FINALE: POEMS, PINTS, & MUSIC 7.30pm Town Hall, Regent Circus Tel 01793 601700

TAHMIMA ANAM & MIRZA WAHEED 8pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837 MIMI KHALVATI & TRAVELLERS WITHOUT BAGGAGE 7pm Studio, Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 614837

love e e t li r a t u r

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Music

Swindon Wide Whatâ€™s

Sunday 3rd, 7.30pm Oxford Philomusica. Light serenade music, conveying the atmosphere of late 18thC Austria. ÂŁ10 - ÂŁ20. Wyvern Tuesday 5th, 8pm

Larkin Poe. Pop and soul music, with roots/ bluegrass influences. ÂŁ12. Arts Centre Friday 8th, 7.30pm South America comes back to Swindon. Harp players, guitarists, mini orchestra, songs, stories and dancers from the heart of the Latin American continent. In association with the Swindon Festival of Literature. ÂŁ10. Arts Centre Saturday 9th, 7.30pm Swindon Male Voice Choir presents a charity concert in aid of Help For Heroes with special guests, the REME Military Band. Stratton Community Centre. ÂŁ10, tickets from 825525 or Swindon Male Voice Choir: 822495. Saturday 9th, 7.30pm Swindon Choral Society perform Beethovenâ€™s Missa Solemnis in aid of BUILD (Building Understanding through International Links for Development). Marlborough College Chapel. Tickets from Swindon Information Centre Saturday 10th, 7.30pm Charlie Landsborough. Charlie and his 5 piece band play country, ballads and anthems. ÂŁ20. Wyvern Tuesday 12th, 8pm John Renbourn and Robin Williamson. Magical music and humorous tales blending Irish harp, guitar and song. ÂŁ14. Arts Centre Thursday 14th, 8pm Rachel Harrington. From the crossroads of gospel, folk and bluegrass Rachelâ€™s songs tell personal and mythical stories from the American West. ÂŁ12. Arts Centre Friday 15th, 8pm Storm Warning. One of Britainâ€™s most talented bands, offer a distinctive blend of contemporary blues, rock and jazz. ÂŁ10. Arts Centre Saturday 16th, 8pm Frisky and Mannish - The College Years. Following their critically acclaimed, smash hit debut School of Pop, F&M are back. ÂŁ12. Arts Centre Tuesday 19th to Thursday 21st, 7.30pm & Thurs 2pm Gleemania. TVâ€™s ultimate pop group with a spectacular concert of songs from the TV hit Glee. ÂŁ16.50. Wyvern Saturday 30th, 8pm, workshop 5.30pm Clive Harveyâ€™s Uke n Amaze. A ukulele workshop followed by a concert. ÂŁ10. Arts Centre

Comedy

Friday 1st, 8pm Andy Parsons. Political comedy without the leaflet, satire without the lecture, ridicule without the sanctimony - all brushed with a bit of showbiz glitter. ÂŁ16. Wyvern Saturday 2nd 8pm Just Fair Laughs. Preston funnyman, Tony Vino, leads an all-star line-up of top UK comedians for a night of comedy. ÂŁ13. Wyvern Thursday 7th &Wednesday 13th, 8pm

Mark Thomas: Extreme Rambling (Walking the Wall). Comedian and activist Mark walked the entire length of the 750km Israeli Separation Barrier - a story of 300,000 settlers, six arrests, one stoning; and too much houmous. ÂŁ15, unwaged ÂŁ10. Arts Centre Sunday 17th, 8pm Dan Clark. Brilliant observational stand-up routines and the occasional hysterical song. ÂŁ16. Wyvern Tuesday 19th, 8pm Jeremy Hardy chronicling his search for interesting ancestors. ÂŁ14. Arts Centre

Musical

Thursday 31 March and Friday 1 April, 7pm Sweeney Todd, the Shock and Roll Show. The scariest event in town presented by the newly formed Greendown School performing arts department. Tickets ÂŁ5, conc. ÂŁ3 from the school on 874224. Thursday 14th to Saturday 16th, 7.30pm & Sat mat 2.30pm Summer Holiday presented by Empire Theatre Company. Don and his fellow London Transport mechanics journey through Europe. ÂŁ13. Wyvern Thursday 28th & Friday 29th, 7.30pm Westend to Broadway presented by Theatre Ink. Songs from the classic favourites. Funds raised in aid of Prospect. ÂŁ10, tickets from 790431. Arts Centre

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 770401

Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328/466454 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481

Confirm date, time & price with venue

18/03/2011 14:19

On in April

Children & Family

Saturdays 9th & 23rd, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges, STEAM Saturday 9th, 7.3pm Rising Aspirations Academy of Performing Arts. 4 to 18 year olds perform an evening of music and fun for all the family. £5, children £3, tickets from 703930. Arts Centre Sunday 3rd Mother’s Day. Mums come in free with a paying adult or child. Willow crafts for the mums or relax in the granary tearoom with a cream tea. Roves Farm. See the advert right Sunday 3rd, 12noon & 2pm Elmer the Elephant. Blunderbus Theatre Company presents a musical adaptation of this heartwarming and funny story. Suit 4 to 7 year olds. £7, children £5, family £18. Arts Centre Tuesday 5th to Saturday 9th, various times Horrible Histories. Two shows - The Awful Egyptians and The Ruthless Romans with actors and ground breaking 3D effects bringing historical figures and events alive. £16.50, children £9.50. Wyvern Saturday 9th to Tuesday 26th Easter Bunny Hunt. Newborn babies around every corner and ‘springtastic’ crafts. Roves Farm. See advert right Sunday 10th, 10am to 12noon A Spring Amble. Find out about the history and natural history of Lydiard Park. Free but booking required, call 770401. Tuesday 12th, 12noon to 3pm Make Easter Bunny Ears. Drop-in event; children must be accompanied by an adult. £2/child. Lydiard Park Tuesdays 12th & 19th, Fridays 15th & 22nd, 11am - 12noon & 1.30pm - 2.30pm Pond Dipping. Discover the lake’s secret wildlife. Book on 770401; children must be accompanied by an adult. £3/ child. Lydiard Park

Fundraising

Saturday 9 April 12noon to 5pm Health Beauty and Wellbeing Day Taster sessions: reiki, massage, reflexology, shiatsu, accupressure, manicures, pedicures, facials and many more therapies Entrance fee, £2, & raffle in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Drove Peoples Campus, Social Hall Southampton Street SN1 3AH For details call Erica Smith, 340271 Saturday 23 April, 10am - 4pm Collection of pet food for Swindon Cats Protection, Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre Newbury and Oak & Furrows Wildlife Centre Somerford Keynes Sainsburys Bridgemead Swindon

21-52 April 11.indd 25

25 Sunday 17th, 10am to 12noon Spring Bird Walk around Lydiard Park. Free but book on 770401 Thursday 21st, 10am - 1pm Introduction to Birdwatching. Book on 770401; children must be accompanied by an adult. £3/child. Lydiard Park Friday 22nd, 12noon to 3pm Fashionista Bonnets. Make your own unique Easter headwear. Drop-in event; children must be accompanied by an adult. £4/child. Lydiard Park Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th, 12noon to 3pm Great Lydiard Park Easter Trail. Drop-in event; children must be accompanied by an adult. £1/child. Saturday 23rd, 11am & 2pm Chris & Pui. CBeebies’ favourite double-act are back with songs, games and surprises. £13, children £11, family £44. Wyvern Monday 25th, 1pm - 2pm Easter Story Walk for families. Book on 770401; children must be accompanied by an adult. £3/child. Lydiard Park Saturday 30 April to Monday 1 May May Day weekend. Traditional fun including Maypole dancing. Roves Farm

Exhibition

Monday 18th to Saturday 30th, 11am - 6pm ASPECTS by Sarah Checksfield. An eclectic sample of her current portfolio. The Post Modern, Theatre Square

Film

Wednesday 6th, 7.45pm Everlasting Moments (15). An uplifting film from Sweden about a young mother who wins a camera in a lottery and with it finds new eyes to see the world around her. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

Theatre

Saturday 16th, 7.30pm Murder Mystery Evening. An interactive feast with a difference - enjoy a delicious meal while you guess who dunnit. £38. Balcony Restaurant, Wyvern Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th, 7.30pm & Wed, Thurs, Sat, 2pm

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon, Wilts. SN6 7QG

01793 763939 www.rovesfarm.co.uk OPEN DAILY* 10.30-5.00pm (*closed on April 29 ) th

Journey’s End. Based on the author RC Sherriff’s experience of the Front and life in the trenches, it celebrates humour and courage in the face of certain tragedy. £17 to £23. Wyvern

Mothers Day- April 3 - Mum’s FREE Easter Bunny- April 9th to April 26th Traditional May Day Fun- April 30th to May 2nd Full programme of events throughout the day: * Meet & Feed the Animals- three times a day ! * FREE Tractor & Trailer Rides around the farm * Children’s Themed Snipping, Sticking and Making * Indoor Heated Toddlers Soft Play & Sandpit * Activity Barn with Pedal Tractors, Giant Slide & Ball Pond * Big Straw Bale Stack, Bouncy Castle & Outdoor Play Area * Granary Tearoom - delicious homemade cakes! Toddler Time Every Weekday During Term Time Children’s Birthday Parties

18/03/2011 14:19

Swindon Wide

the bigger picture

Entries to the Mayor of Swindon’s photographic exhibition at West Swindon Library until 3 April

At their annual exhibition last September the Mayor of Swindon, Rex Barnett challenged Swindon Photographic Society to come up with a competition that encouraged photographers to focus exclusively on the town. Seven months later he was faced with the problem of finding three winners from 66 entries. “The standard was incredible; it was really difficult to come up with a short list and to pick winners,” said Rex. “I’d like to thank the society and its member for capturing our town and putting on an excellent exhibition. I hope this will become an annual event with encourages more people to concentrate on Swindon. Exhibition secretary Gareth Evans, who coordinated the project, said, “our members have not paid a lot of attention to Swindon until Rex confronted us, but the competition made them see the town differently.” All the entries are available to view until 3 April at West Swindon Library. www.swindonphotosoc.org.uk Top, the winning picture, The Post Box by Terry Walters, the flash of Royal Mail red in the monochrome scene of last winter’s snow taken close to the bus stops on Fleming Way. Right, the dry sculptural form of the controversial town centre water feature captured by Paddy Bohan won a prize sponsored by Swindon Link.

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Swindon Wide

De Vere Village rebrand attractive to all

The £4 million make-over of the hotel at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park is now complete with the opening of the Buca di Beppo Italian family restaurant, and reaction has been extremely positive according to general manager Andrew Spinks. Since October all 147 bedrooms have been completely refurbished but the major changes are to be found in the public areas where the village concept has been introduced to promote the idea that the De Vere is now a lot more than a hotel. The lobby has been opened up into a huge comfor table lounge complemented by Starbucks. Further into Three generations of the Dean family from West Swindon and Abbey Meads enjoying the the building is the Vic- Buca di Beppo dining experience, from left, Neil, Maria, Terry, Olivia, Audrey and Sandra, tory pub and kitchen with Andrew Spinks, back centre, and restaurant colleagues decorated with photographs of high larger and refitted with 50 pieces done all we can to achieve the achievers, from Winston Churchill to of TechnoGym equipment to match changes quickly and with minimum Mohammed Ali, with all the ingredi- the Perfect Fit programme designed inconvenience to visitors. There’s ents you expect from a pub: a range by double Olympic gold medalist, been a really positive response of ales and wines, themed nights Dame Kelly Holmes.There’s sports, to what we now offer with lots of and of course big screens showing games, dance activities and fun people dropping by for a coffee during the day and others making classes for children. all the sports channels. The leisure pool is also an at- The Victory their local. The interest Closeby is Buca di Beppo, a new type of restaurant to Swindon, where traction and there is a wide range in Buca di Beppo is enormous whilst food is served in family style which of beauty therapies and treatments. customers in the Village Health & Andrew Spinks said the transition Fitness Club are really impressed means sharing dishes designed to the new look DeVere had gone by the new look and the equipment around the best in Italian cuisine. Downstairs the Village Health smoothly, including recruiting over on offer.” www.village-hotels.co.uk and Fitness Gym is now much 20 full and part time staff. “We’ve

21 May, Four Pillars Hotel, South Cerney In aid of The Genesis Research Trust, to fund research into the causes and cures for genetic conditions that affect women and babies. For details and tickets call Carol Hearn on 07808 092158 or mail: Carol.Hearn@deceuninck.com http://bit.ly/slink01

Stammurai online

Swindon youngsters with a stammer have released an animated film, based on their iPhone App. It’s set in feudal Japan, about a young samurai in training who has a stammer. His disability draws him into conflict with an evil samurai master where he must conquer his fear of stammering in order to survive. Watch the film at: http://bit.ly/stammurai Read about the iPhone App at: http://bit.ly/stammurai01

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21-52 April 11.indd 27

18/03/2011 16:09

Swindon Wide

Nova kids have smashing time with ex-Status Quo member

Two hundred youngsters at Nova Hreod School were awestruck when legendary drummer Jeff Rich gave a percussion master class on 11 March. Jeff talked about the evolution of his craft from its pre-history origins when humans used stretched animal skins to make sounds right up to present day and his 16 year experience with Status Quo, making fourteen albums and rocking all over the world. He demonstrated his skills with a £10,000 drum kit and played a priceless vintage Ludwig snare drum which he has been using since the mid-1970s. Jeff said that he decided to stop touring when he remarried. “I have two adult sons, but never saw them as children because we were always on the road or in the studio. I now have two daughters under two years and I’m there for them for two or three weeks a month. The rest of the time I base myself in towns around the country and run classes to inspire youngsters to become musicians.” Nova deputy-headteacher Amanda Clegg said, “Jeff called to say he was coming to Swindon and offered a master-class. Being a fan of Status Quo there was no choice, we had to have him here. The children absolutely loved the session.” Year 10 pupil Dale Evans, who is learning to drum, was amazed by the opportunity to meet a superstar. “It was a phenomenal class, Jeff was brilliant. I’ll be happy if I can ever be near as good as him.” Left, Jeff with Nova drumming novices

Local band aims for competition success

Local indie/rock band The Blackwaters, who have been playing together for just a year, have made it through to the Live & Unsigned regional finals on 10 April – beating 10,000 other applicants, and 200 artists who made it to the first round of auditions. The regional finals will be held in a 600 seater theatre. If they succeed there The Blackwaters could be heading to area finals in London, followed by the national final at the 02 Arena, with a chance of winning a music management recording contract and up to £100,000 investment. Link tattoo ad 15/10/09 11:40 Page 1 www.theblackwaters.co.uk

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Singout with community choir Swindon Scratch Choir gives anyone who would like to sing, but has little experience or confidence, the chance to have a go. There’s no need to read music at the fun singing sessions held on alternate Monday evenings, 7.30 to 9.30pm, at Lower Shaw Farm and the Pilgrim Centre, Regent Street. The cost is £6 and £5 conc.

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Call Dr Alison Brooks for a free consultation at the Shalbourne Suite, Great Western Hospital, Swindon

MECA sets up Springtime punk fest

Swindon’s newest music venue - Music, Entertainment, Cultural Arena, in Regent Circus – becomes a pogo centre in April and May, starting with punk legends The Buzzcocks on stage on Friday 29 April. The band shot to fame in the 70s punk music revolution with Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve) and inspired such diverse bands as REM, Nirvana and Green Day. “The Buzzcocks usually play festivals so we’re really excited about them coming to Swindon,” said Steve Causer of GVS Entertainment, the company behind the 3,000 capacity MECA. “It’s a real coup and we’re expecting a lot of people to travel from all over the May, MECA runs a comedy night with Sean Hughes, Rufus Hound, country to see them.” Over Spring bank holiday week- Beeny Boot and Andre Vincent. Tickets for all gigs are available end, on Sunday 29 May, MECA hosts a Punk Fest with Sham 69 from Swindon Tourist Information headlining, and The Business, Anti- Centre in Regent Street, Swin City Nowhere League and Goldblade. Comics in Morley Street and online. www.swindontickets.co.uk The previous day, Saturday 28

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The choir also runs an informal singers group at Lower Shaw Farm on Tuesdays 3pm to 4.30pm (£3.50 inc. refreshments). All are welcome to take part. For details call Linda Lee on 875184, mail: Lindsing@yahoo.com www.swindonscratchchoir.co.uk

18/03/2011 14:24

swindonlink.com • April 2011

FACECHOICE PHARMACY Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 2.15pm - 6pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

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Tel: 01793 600440 • Traditional family medicine within a modern, comfortable and relaxed environment • Now open to new patient registrations from patients in West and North Swindon and the surrounding nearby villages • We are an accredited training practice. • On-line appointment booking now available. Register in the surgery or download an application form.

Dunwich Drive, Toothill Village Centre www.phoenixsurgery.com

21-52 April 11.indd 29

18/03/2011 14:25

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Luxury Handmade Soaps and Fresh Cosmetics made daily Cute silk creme cupcake soaps and Silk Creme Soap cakes Soap Bar- Drop in soap making for Adults, Children and Teens. Childrens and Teens Birthday craft and pamper packages from £5.95 Adult workshop and classes in natural soap making Studley Grange Craft Village, Hay Lane, Swindon SN4 9QT Tel: 07500 961104

Chiropractor wins national quality award

Link advertiser Sandra Davies of the Shaw Chiropractic Clinic has been awarded the ‘Patient Partnership Quality Mark’ (PPQM) by The College of Chiropractors. The award recognises excellence in meeting the expectations patients have about their chiropractic care. Sandra, right, said, “chiropractors

provide safe and effective treatment, and we are proud to say that the award of the Patient Partnership Quality Mark recognises this clinic’s commitment to meeting patients’ expectations of their treatment, environ-

ment and care. “Our aim is to continually improve our levels of service and we always welcome feedback from patients to help us achieve this.” See the advert on page 29.

Croquet could be the hobby for you this summer

Swindon Croquet Club’s season Members meet on Tuesdays, 2pm ist mallets for wheelchair users,” runs from 1 April to 31 October to 4.30pm and Wednesdays, 2pm said club secretary John Airey. “You can learn the basics in minutes or at their lawns in Moredon Playing until sunset. Fields, opposite Manor Garden Beginners are welcome and the spend a lifetime mastering the inwww.thesoapparlour.co.uk Centre. club is offering a starters course on tricacies. You don’t need any special six consecutive Tuesdays from 3 equipment, just wear ﬂat shoes and May, 10am to 12noon. Experienced warm clothing if there is a wind.” The club also runs fun morning, coaches will guide you through the Free T-Shirt & Weight Loss various strokes. The cost is £20 which afternoon or evening sessions for can be part of the membership fee, groups like the WI, birthday parties Planner on enrolment should you decide to join the club. or company team building sessions. Tuesday: Wootton Bassett School For details contact John on 873026 “Croquet is a fascinating game 6.00-7.30pm suitable for all ages, both sexes, all or via: New Weight loss programme and Thursday: Bridlewood School, North abilities - and there are even special- www.swindoncroquetclub.org.uk Swindon 6.00-7.30pm exercise class all rolled into one • Free Induction To book a place and find out more, • No Joining Fee contact us NOW! • No fad diets or calorie counting The County Ground Bowls Club begins its season with an afternoon for Sam 07825 777779 or • Fitness classes to suit your level all on Saturday 16 April, 2pm, • Weekly weigh in, with advice and support Louise 07843 388938 Club secretary, Derek Caddy said,“we are constantly looking to recruit men and ladies of all ages. Anyone interested in taking up a new sport is invited to come along to meet the members and have a go.” For details call Derek on 481271 or Bill Pearce on 870175, or derek. fightingfatclub@yahoo.co.uk caddy@ntlworld.com

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21-52 April 11.indd 30

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17/03/2011 14:17

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Three months on, what’s happened to those resolutions?

Despite reports in the national press that fitness memberships are on the wane, Swindon is bucking the trend because, since the start of the year, it has seen people flocking to council leisure centres to join the ever more popular Leisure Passport scheme.

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Council site offers access for all. 159 children with disabilities visited Link Centre with their carers, helpers and parents on 9 March to take part in a wide range of activities. Bath based paralympic sprinter Katrina Hart was a special guest attending the event to encourage and inspire the children. Katrina has cerebral palsy and recently won gold at the Paralympic World Championships in New Zealand to add to her Commonwealth gold medal from last year. She is pictured with Paul Clemm and Jack Wilkins from Haydonleigh Primary School

“Over 650 people joined in January and February taking total membership to over 5,000, an alltime high,” said Darren Gunter, Swindon Leisure Services gym & fitness officer. “There were 30,000 visits for fitness activities at Link Centre and Oasis alone during the first two months of this year; it’s a great step towards our objective of getting more people, more active, more often.” Leisure Passport membership offers all inclusive use of fitness activities across all Swindon Council leisure sites with activities such as ice skating and climbing as well as the usual health club fare of gym, swim and fitness classes. Darren said, “providing high quality facilities at affordable prices is part of the council’s drive to increase physical activity levels in adults and young people in Swindon. According to the Sport Eng-

land Active People survey people in the town are more active than the national average but less active than the rest of the South West.” However, over the past three years the Leisure Services team has developed activities that are more accessible and inclusive for children, young people and adults with disabilities and additional needs. This began with a host of new sessions, including climbing, ice skating, trampolining and a multi-sport club for adults with learning disabilities. New activities are being introduced all the time. As a result activity levels by people with long standing illness, disability or infirmity in Swindon now surpass both national and regional averages. Leisure Passports details are available at any Swindon Council leisure centre or see the advert on the back page.

Link pool hosts April cancer swim event Swimathon 2011 - the world’s biggest fundraising swimming event - hits over 575 pools across the UK between 8 and 10 April, when over 20,000 swimmers will raise more than £2m for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the Swimathon Foundation. The majority of the funds will help support Marie Curie Nurses who provide free nursing care to cancer patients and those with other terminal illnesses in the place of their choice. The charity expects to provide care to around 29,000 terminally ill patients in the community

21-52 April 11.indd 31

and in its hospices this year and is the largest provider of hospice beds outside the NHS. Olympic gold medallist and Swimathon president Duncan Goodhew said, “the 2010 event enjoyed an astonishing 37 per cent rise in entries and we really hope to see another increase this year. It’s great that so many who dived in told us that they only started swimming again when they entered Swimathon.” You can too by registering by 7 April at www.swimathon.org or call 0845 36 700 36.

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Swindon Cycles

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18/03/2011 14:28

swindonlink.com • April 2011

The Hidden Gem Home Beauty Salon

Est 2004

The Hidden Gem is a friendly, comfortable and highly professional home beauty room, situated in Old Shaw, West Swindon

Swindon centurion to attack marathon record

Fitness trainer Les Slinn is continuing his efforts to raise money for Swindon Therapy Centre for MS and Swindon Downs Syndrome Support Group by attempting to be the fastest ever London Marathon runner dressed as a Roman Soldier on 17 April.

With extremely competitive prices and with over 10 years experience Call Gemma on 07810 018319 To request a price list or to book an appointment

Les with members of the Swindon Down’s group

He said he had decided to continue the Roman theme after pulling Samantha Mulvey in a wheelchair chariot around the Swindon half marathon course with a team of centurions from the Les Slinn Fitness Studio last October. “This is an ofﬁcial attempt approved by Guinness World Records. The fastest time stands at 4 hours and 30 minutes. I completed London in 2008 in 3 hours 37, so hopefully I have a chance of bringing the record back to Swindon.” The MS Centre has to raise £100,000 annually to run its premises in Westlea and the Downs support group has to raise over £16,000 every year to enable children to receive additional weekly speech and language therapy classes. Help Les raise money for Downs support at: www.justgiving.com/lesslinn. Assist the MS Centre at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LesSlinn

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21-52 April 11.indd 32

Can Chiropractic

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If you are experiencing any of these symptoms call our clinic TODAY for an appointment Ridgeway Medi-Spa Chiropractic, Fairwater Stables, 1 High Street, Wroughton, Wilts SN4 9JX

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18/03/2011 14:29

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Play the Arsenal way over Easter Toby Clapton is running the Arsenal Soccer School from 12 to 14 April, 10am to 3pm, at the North Swindon Learning Campus gym and all weather pitch. Toby is also coaching a five week players development course at Orchid Vale starting on 27 April. See the advert on page 16 or www.playthearsenalway.com/wiltshire

Gym stars wanted

Shining Stars Gymnastic Club is a new after-school club based at Peatmoor Primary School and welcomes children aged 4 to 11 years who want to work towards the British Amateur Gymnastics Badge Scheme. The club meets on Mondays, 4pm to 4.50pm, for ages 4 to 6 years and 5pm to 6pm for ages 7 to 11 years. For details call Caroline Bowles on 887473 during school hours.

“just for today send love & light to others around you” Relax, Unwind, Revitalise your body, spirit & mind with Om Holistic therapy. • Hot stone & body massage • Indian head massage • Crystal therapy • Reiki • Hopi candle • Laser hair removal • Light & Hair energy treatment Vouchers available for special occasions

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Call for rapid vision help

Swindon Advocacy Movement Project has launched SAM Vision, a two month project to enable people with learning disabilities and visual impairment to live more independently and have access to services in the community It’s being run by Mary Parsons, a winner of this year’s Vodafone World of Difference programme, who is calling on Swindon residents with learning disabilities and visual impairment to contact her before the end of April. She is also keen to work with local organisations to raise awareness. For details call Mary Parsons on 542575 or mail: samvision@btconnect.com

Exclusive evolution in women’s fitness Curves, Redhouse village centre’s women-only gym, is excited to announce a brand new twist to their fitness offering in the form of Curves Circuit with Zumba Fitness classes. Curves’ unique workout and proven benefits in cardiovascular weight management plan has fitness, muscle toning and strength, as well as joint flexibility. With the Get addition of Zumba’s high energy, dance moves, the moready Latin-based tivation and fun factor of exercising for the cranks up a few notches. Curves Swindon manager new Kathryn Steele is excited about Curves the link-up between Curves and Circuit Zumba Fitness. “If you’ve lost with touch with your New Year’s resoluthis amazing workout is just Zumba tion, for you. It’s suitable for all ages, fitfitness ness level and dance abilities and It’s the only you can burn up to 500 calories in 30-minute class just 30 minutes.” The classes at Curves are led that mixes the by qualified Zumba instructor and moves of Zumba well-known local dance teacher with the proven Pollyann Tanner. To allow time strength training to enjoy the Zumba moves, the of Curves for a Curves Circuit with Zumba uses wildly effective one-minute intervals between the workout. different exercises instead of the usual 30 seconds and are proving FREE very popular. Wildly Kathryn added, “the new Curves e v ti Effec Circuit with Zumba classes have * WEEK been received really well. Everyone loves the session and are having huge fun. Curves are offering a free trial curves.co.uk Curves with Zumba class to all 01793 745200 or 07541 439234 newcomers, following their Curves 3 Greencote House, Isambard Way, fitness assessment and first conRedhouse, Swindon, SN25 2NT ‘Curves with Zumba’ are extra classes. ventional Curves workout. At all other times, the Curves Circuit is as usual *New members only. Not valid with any other offer. For details call Kathryn at © 2011 Curves International, Inc. Zumba®, Zumba Fitness®, and the Zumba Fitness logos are registered trademarks of Curves on 745200. Zumba Fitness, LLC. Used with permission.

21-52 April 11.indd 33

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • NECK PAIN Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic • BACK PAIN will benefit you. • HEADACHES Please call • SPORTS INJURY 01793 602454 • CAR ACCIDENT

Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC Member of the Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems British Chiropractic Association & College above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive of Chiropractors. strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike. Registered with GCC

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

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18/03/2011 14:29

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Midwife heads to Burkina Faso via Bombay Lounge curry night

Pilates class

y f u l l da p m b o o tc a y 1st ma

and All food plied drink sup

for beginners and improvers Every Monday, 7.45 - 8.45pm and every Tuesday, 8 - 9pm at Peatmoor Community Primary School Every Thursday, 7pm - 8pm, at Isambard Community School Each course is for 6 weeks, to be booked and paid for in advance, costing £30. For further details and to book on the next course please contact Debbie Mitchell

on 01793 722152 or 07745 422365

A retired midwife from Wroughton is raising funds for an orphanage, dispensary and maternity unit in Fada, Burkina Faso, West Africa – before going to live there to give advice and support. Marie has already raised £25,000 Marie Lee To, 59, and the Discovery Church Swindon hope towards the cost of building the others will join them in raising over compound which will house the £100,000 for the life-saving units. maternity facilities, and was hopMarie explained, “I first heard about ing to make a another visit over the the desperate plight of both orphans winter. However a water crisis in the and mothers who were dying need- village delayed her plans. She and lessly because of lack of midwifery Discovery Church are now raising money for another well to supply expertise in 2009. “As a midwife of 20 years expe- local people. Marie is organising a charity rience I knew, after much thought and a visit to the area, that this was curry night at the Bombay Lounge what I should be doing next. I began on 3 May. Call the restaurant on to raise sponsorship and took a 887799 to book a table or mail her tropical diseases course to prepare on: Lcyto2003@yahoo.co.uk to find myself for serving in Burkina Faso.” out more about her project.

Pedal for Prospect in July Cyclists from across the region are being asked to take part in the Big Bike Ride for Prospect Hospice on 17 July. Two routes are planned starting from Wroughton airfield: a leisurely 15km ride around Hackpen Hill for beginners and families, and a 50km challenge including some off road terrain around the Marlborough Downs for the more experienced cyclist. Events such as Prospect’s Big Bike Ride are a vital part of the hospice’s fundraising target of £5m annually to deliver its care and services within the community, seventy per cent of which it needs to raise itself. For details contact Becky on 816161 or mail: fundraising&events@ prospect-hospice.net

Cycle Swindon @ Festival of Literature, Monday 2 May. Ride and a talk at Lydiard House from 6pm. See www.swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk

21-52 April 11.indd 34

18/03/2011 14:31

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Helping families in the shadow of Chernobyl Louise Mackinlay, manager of the Cable&Wireless Worldwide Data Centre at Windmill Hill Business Park, describes the week in March spent in Belarus with colleague Dan Baker and Gin McGiffin from Oakhurst, Swindon coordinator of Chernobyl Children in Need (CCIN). Staff at the Swindon data centre have become closely involved with CCIN and the trip gave us an opportunity to meet Belarusian people in the contaminated region of Gomel, just 30km from the Chernobyl exclusion zone, and to see how the money raised has been spent. Our main aim was to visit the children sponsored by colleagues based in Swindon and at other sites around the country, and also to see how our ‘cow project’ is going. In 2010 a number of staff Louise and Dan visit a family in Ozarchi ran the Reading half marathon to raise money to buy a cow to ensure that March is properly for a family in Gomel, CCIN’s first looked after. It was incredibly humbling to see sustainable project. Cow No.1, or ‘Chayka’ as she is affectionately how this money can change a famknown by the hardworking family, ily’s life and how hard the Belarusian has given them fresh milk and the people are prepared to work once children are now healthier because given a helping hand. In addition to March, purchased of it. On 7 March she was due to have a calf which allows the fam- from the local collective farm at just ily to take their next step in self £750 including insurance, we bought sufficiency. More livestock means three families 10 chickens each, at a more opportunities and any surplus cost of £50 per family. This means products can be sold in the village some of the poorest children will now get vital protein with a simple for a little extra money. egg each morning before school. 25 years since We also visited several schools nuclear disaster in the Ozarichi area where CCIN With nuclear radiation again in the has done a fantastic job to improve headlines, Chernobyl Children in facilities. Many of the children are Need is marking a quarter of a now individually sponsored by century since the Chernobyl nuclear Swindon families, which means power station blew up, they receive healthy school meals irradiating a wide area. and fresh fruit daily. It was evident Join CCIN for a fundraising evening how much the teachers care for the on Tuesday 26 April at San Marco’s, children and appreciate the work Faringdon Road, preceded by sky done by the charity. lanterns in the park. Dan and I were staggered that the Book a table by calling 496797. cost of food and basic necessities is Despite working a 12 hour day, similar to the UK, while the average seven days a week at a farm miles wage is around $100 US per month. away, with only a bicycle for trans- It brought home to us, with those port, Mr Gorniak said Chayka was costs and that income, how could a gift that ‘has allowed him to step we survive? Yet, we were thankful to see that onto the first rung of the ladder.’ Before Christmas a number of our the aid colleagues collect and send colleagues started more fundraising by container shipment twice a year for CCIN, including Dan making is getting straight to the people who tea at the Swindon data centre for need it most. We were truly welcomed with a day dressed as Mrs Santa Claus. As a result he was able to fund the open arms by the Belarusian people. It was an experience Dan and I will purchase of cow No.2. Named ‘March,’ the cow was never forget. delivered during our visit. The Louise has written a longer article family chosen were astounded and which is published with more phodelighted to receive the gift. They tographs at http://bit.ly/slink3 welcomed us into their home with such gratitude; it was impossible not To sponsor a child or purchase to become emotional. The children livestock for a needy family, mail: were so excited and looked forward Gin McGiffin at gin@mcgiffin.com to helping with the daily chores www.ccin.co.uk

21-52 April 11.indd 35

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DITCH THE WORK OUT, JOIN THE PARTY! The Latin Inspired, Easy To Follow Calorie-Burning Dance-Fitness Party Red Oaks Primary School: Mondays: 6.10pm - 7.00pm Wednesdays: 6.40pm - 7.30pm Gorse Hill Community Centre: Sundays: 7.00pm - 7.50pm Wednesdays: 12.10pm - 1.00pm Toothill Community Centre: Tuesdays: 12.30pm - 1.20pm Freshbrook Community Centre: Tuesdays: 6.00pm - 6.45pm

Kathie 0777 5651566 info@zumbainswindon.co.uk www.zumbainswindon.co.uk ZUMBA® and the Zumba Fitness logo are trademarks used under license.

Centre for Health & Wellbeing

Anti-stress Fleuressence Body Treatment just £35 for Mothers day

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18/03/2011 14:37

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Looking for a business you can trust? THEN LOOK NO FURTHER!

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07916 146010 or 01793 873732 driverightms@btinternet.com

Swindon Scrapstore relaunched as reuse centre

Swindon Scrapstore has relocated to new premises in West Swindon and rebranded itself to ﬁt in with society’s current climate, not as a scrap centre but a place to re-purpose items that can be reused.

A new era for consumers and business is only a click away

www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

If you have a business and you are interested in joining the scheme, call Trading Standards

01793 466155 Olivia McCann with volunteers Dan Smith and Gary Cannell

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome ✶ cam belt replacement ✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds ✶ electrical fault code reading ✶ MOT repairs ✶ vehicle sales ✶ servicing to light commercials

Open 8.30am - 5.30pm

Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett

The ﬁre that knocked out the previous Scrapstore base in Cheney Manor in the Autumn has been turned to advantage. Project leader Olivia McCann believes there are huge development opportunities because the amount of ﬂoor space in the new location, the former Farepak warehouse off Westmead Drive, is about twenty times larger than any of the premises they’ve been in before. “We can now offer a much larger selection of paints, glues and crafty bits to our members like playgroups, junior clubs and schools. We’ll have a much larger community re-paint scheme with a greater variety of colours. “We’re also going to set up new projects including furniture recycling, arts and crafts workshops, a café which will provide hot food for staff, volunteers, visitors and other businesses in the surrounding area. We now have enough space for a dedicated room where kids can have a birthday craft party without

making the house all messy. “Outside we’re looking at a construction reclamation project with sand, gravel, bricks, cement and much more.” To make these projects happen Scrapstore will be increasing the number of volunteer and training opportunities for young and unemployed people. Olivia said thanks are due to dozens of businesses who came to the rescue after the ﬁre to help Scrapstore get back on its feet: Kleerex Retail Services Group, who donated and installed thousands of pounds worth of racking, Elite Joinery, Capture CCTV, B&Q, Ofﬁce Clearance Wholesale Ltd, Waste to Wonder, SP Computers and Hills Waste. Gateway Church and the Probation Service also provided extra volunteer help to get the building ready for use. For details call the Scrapstore on 513982. www.scrapstore.co.uk

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Engine diagnostics ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee)

For a reliable local service with over 30 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

21-52 April 11.indd 36

18/03/2011 14:37

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Power from your own roof to generate tax free income to pay the (rising) bills

Renewed doubts about energy supply and security as a result of the nuclear disaster in Japan will mean greater focus on renewable sources and there’s no better source than the power of the sun. With the price of energy set to increase, now’s the time to consider using your roof to generate electricity. People make many different kinds of home improvement: double glazing, a conservatory, extension or a new kitchen, but only solar PV will make a return on the outlay of between £7,000 and £15,000 - assuming your roof faces south. Since April 2010, energy companies have been obliged to pay a Feed in Tariff (FIT) if a house owner makes an investment in their homes by having photovoltaic solar panels (solar PV) installed on their roof. Therefore, for every kilowatt hour Solar PV is certainly worth conDepending on the number and (kWh) of energy generated your therefore generating capacity of sidering but it’s essential that you electricity supplier has to make a the solar panels on the roof, most deal with an installer which is MiFIT payment of 41.3p. households will be able to receive crogeneration Certification Scheme Most impressively the payments about £600 to £1,200 annually in approved. are index linked, free of tax, and FIT payments. The two companies advertising guaranteed for 25 years - equivalent The initial investment should be below are both local and experito 5 to 8 per cent return. paid off in about 10 years. Thereafter enced. Glynn Stevens from Grange The investment also significantly the solar panels will be generating Park is a well known electrical reduces household carbon emission. income over the rest of the FIT contractor about to receive MCS During the daylight hours, the guarantee period. accreditation, whilst Rain Wind Sun home uses any electricity generated If you can’t afford the panels, there from Purton have been MCS installfor free which is a saving on buying are a growing number of companies ers since before the FIT scheme was power. Any not used is exported to which will rent your roof. They will launched. the grid, for which the electricity undertake the installation and give Both will provide free assessprovider will pay an additional 3p you use of any electricity generated ments of the potential to generate per kWh. (How this is calculated but keep the FIT to pay for and profit electricity from your home and varies between suppliers). free quotes. from the solar panels.

16mm compost / tonne sold in one large bulk bag

1 2

£33.00 delivered incl VAT

Telephone for orders:

01793 714450

G. STEVENS (ELECTRICAL)

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Call us on 01793 772277, visit www.rainwindsun.com, email enquiries@rainwindsun.com

21-52 April 11.indd 37

18/03/2011 14:41

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Friends come together for Seven Fields

Flood alleviation plans on show The Environment Agency is holding an exhibition at Haydon Wick Parish Council offices, Thames Avenue on 31 March, 4pm to 8.30pm, about the £2.4 million project to improve flood defences along a mile long stretch of the brook from Haydon Wick to Taw Hill. Work to clear vegetation and remove trees has been taking place in advance of major construction to increase the height of embankments and improve water flow through culverts. The exhibition will explain the plans and timescales.

Have fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes

✓ Playskool for puppies ✓ Adult beginners/improvers ✓ Senior Skool/advanced classes ✓ One to one advice & training ✓ Fun agility workshops

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk APDT Member (01066) Janet Garrett DipCAPBT Dip.dog.psy email: janet.garrett@virgin.net

permission, the conservation group hopes to take on management responsibility for the open space Seven Fields Conservation Group is made up of people from all the surrounding areas and gained Local Reserve Designation for the area in 1995. Volunteers have built bridges over streams, put up signposts, improved pathways and planted trees. For details about the meeting or becoming a friend, contact Marilyn Beale on 331516 or mail: seven.ﬁelds@ ntlworld.com

Fledgling celebrates bird count week

Peatmoor Primary School invited Swindon Town FCs Rockin’ Robin to take part in the RSPB bird count in February with them, but he was busy and sent Funky Fledgling instead.

Janet‛s Puppy Skool

Tel: 01793 727158

The Seven Fields Conservation Group is hosting a meeting at St Johns Church, Thames Avenue on Thursday 7 April, 7pm, to set up a ‘Friends’ of Seven Fields Open Space between Penhill and Abbey Meads. The aim is to ﬁnd people interested in championing a formal park, a play park, dog walking area and any other uses that might be needed, as well as volunteers to be involved in wildlife habitat improvement. Eventually, with government and Swindon Council

Children had the chance to try their shooting skills against town goalkeeper Mark Scott in the playground before putting questions to him. Football in the community coordinator Shane Hewlett talked about the history of the club and Zoe Collman told them about becoming a junior robin.

Guide Dogs is all about coming together

Funky with Peatmoor children and ‘Get together for Guide Dogs’ is a social event fundraising initiative town staff from left, junior reds to get people working together to help others in need of a guide dog. membership secretary Zoe CollFrom a coffee morning with your living in your local community. man, Mark Scott, Shane Hewlett “We have a free Get Together nearest and dearest, a cake sale in and Anita Dobson the ofﬁce or a quiz in the pub, to a fundraising pack full of practical black tie ball or staged talent com- information, how-to guides, posters petition – whatever the idea, Guide and invites to give you a real head Dogs have the tools to inspire and start for organising a successful fundraising event. And there are help you. The money raised could help inspirational Get Together ideas Guide Dogs to transform the lives each month at www.guidedogs. of thousands of blind and partially org.uk/gettogether.” For a fundraising pack, register sighted people. Alan Fletcher, chair of Swindon Guide Dogs for the at www.guidedogs.org.uk/getBlind Association said, “it costs £10 together , call 0870 600 2323 or mail: a day to support each guide dog gettogether@guidedogs.org.uk For details of Swindon Guide partnership and there are currently over 4,500 guide dog owners in the Dogs, contact Alan Fletcher on UK, so every penny is vital and 827589 or mail: shiralan@ﬂetcas. could go towards helping someone freeserve.co.uk

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24 Hour Monday to Friday - 6.30pm Emergency 9amSaturday Service 9am - 12noon

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk

21-52 April 11.indd 38

A court appeal by Daine Gooden from Rushey Platt to save his cross breed dog Rocco from being destroyed after it savaged a 13 year old Staffordshire bull terrier bitch in November, failed in March. The January Link reported the attack which resulted in owner Sheriden Fisher being hospitalised after being scratched and bitten trying to separate the two animals when Rocco was left without a muzzle at Shaw Village Centre. Mrs Fisher’s dog Holly suffered a fractured spine and broken tail requiring about £5,000 worth of surgery. Mr Gooden was arrested by West Swindon PC Tom Turner and the dog taken into police kennels when it was discovered that Rocco was an animal licenced under the Dangerous Dog Act.

Annual Championship & Cat Show

Organised by Britain’s oldest cat club Saturday 16 April, 12.30pm Cricklade Town Hall, High Street, Cricklade

Pedigree and non-pedigree cats, refreshments, auction, stalls Adults £2, concessions £1. Enquiries call 01666 860646.

18/03/2011 14:44

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Swindon Citizens Advice Bureau needs you Swindon CAB urgently requires more volunteer advisers and administrators to help meet the ever increasing demand on its services. For details call 618781 ext 0 or mail: manager.swindoncab @cabnet.org.uk Closing date Monday 4 April

How are NHS and social care changes affecting you?

With the separation of functions of the Swindon Primary Care Trust and a whole raft of other changes, Jo Osorio, development officer for Local Involvement Network (LINk), has it right when he says: “these are complicated times.” LINk, the Swindon based independent network for involving local people in health and adult social care planning, is arranging an open meeting in May to explain and debate the changes. They would also like to hear from people now about the effects these changes are having. Jo explained, “the changes to the NHS and social care services are extremely complicated, even controversial. Locally they include the separation of the functions of Primary Care Trust, or NHS Swindon as it is increasingly known. “The development of personal budgets for social and some health care services will increasingly give people the opportunity - and put the onus on them - to manage their own care. “Swindon LINk will develop into Healthwatch Swindon by April 2012 but the changes will be incremental. There will be opportunities for people to get involved and have some influence on what services are commissioned and how they are provided.” To comment on how the changes in health and social care are affecting you, and for details of the LINk open meeting in May, mail: jo.osorio@ vas-swindon.org or call 497777. www.swindonlink.org

Gardens wanted West Swindon Open Gardens will be once again taking place in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer this summer, over Father’s Day weekend: 18 & 19 June. Organiser Lesley Dredge is looking for gardeners in the Shaw/ Nine Elms/Peatmoor area willing to show off their talents. If you’re willing to open up, mail her at: rdredge1@toucansurf.com

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swindonlink.com • April 2011

Garden shows in Wroughton Wroughton & District Horticultural Society Spring Show Saturday 16 April, 2pm - 5pm Ellendune Community Centre Raffle, plant sales, teas and an auction of some of the entries Annual Plant Sale Saturday 21 May, 10am Ellendune Community Centre Plants and garden sundries for sale at very realistic prices Details from Peter Wheals: peter.wheals@talktalk.net

At Twigs this Spring Swindon Therapeutic Work in Gardens (TWIGS) holds its Spring Open Day on Sunday 17 April, 11am to 4pm, opposite Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor. Explore the themed gardens and the Flowers & Butterflies Wildflower Haven. Meet members of the Swindon & District Beekeepers and visit stalls, crafts, workshops, children’s activities. Free admission and parking. Wildflower boxes on offer Wildlife gardening is a great way to compensate for habitat loss under concrete and modern agricultural practices. TWIGS has come up with a low cost scheme to ensure wildlife such as butterflies and bees visit your gardens or take up residence. Call in on Wednesday, 10.30am to 12.30pm, until October, to chat to a

volunteer about the best plants for your type of garden. At other times wildflowers can be purchased at TWIGS on Mondays and Fridays as well as Wednesdays from 10.30am to 3.30pm. TWIGS is selling a ‘butterfly pub,’ a simple wooden planter containing a dozen wildflowers at £10 with free delivery. It’s suitable for a patio or in a corner of the garden; be amazed at the wildlife it attracts in the summer.

New cafe supports TWIGS work The Olive Tree, the newly opened cafe at Manor Garden Centre, redecorated by volunteers including a team from Motorola is run by Friends of TWIGS. Enjoy homebaked cakes and food made with seasonal produce from the TWIGS organic allotment. To become involved with the cafe as a volunteer, call 523294. Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm; Sunday 11am - 4pm.

Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week

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www.sansums.co.uk 21-52 April 11.indd 40

18/03/2011 15:08

swindonlink.com • April 2011

HERITAGE TREE CARE

Garden Doctors

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Established in 1994, we have completed over 1500 Gardens & Driveways With an enviable reputation for reliable, skilled work borne out by the many recommendations received See photos & testimonials at

Comprehensive service Qualified staff Fully insured • Pruning and Shaping • Felling and Removal • Hedge Cutting • Stump Grinding • Tree Planting

www.swindonlandscaping.co.uk Contact James Cherry for free & friendly advice

Free quotations and advice Call Ian Walding (N.C.Hort N.D.Arb)

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Email: treeman@iwalding.freeserve.co.uk

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❖ Fences, gates & sheds supplied and erected ❖ Landscaping ❖ Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed ❖ Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied ❖ Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden maintenance

Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940 247152 www.freethfencingandgardenservicesltd.com

Block paving, patios, fencing, turfing etc

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No Job Too Small. All works insured

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. • Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up • Turﬁng and grass seeding NO VAT • Ponds & pergolas

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Call Martin Emery MI Hort.

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For all your home & garden needs Patios Decking Paths Turfing Walling Fencing Driveways For a free quote call Cliff on

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Established locally for over 8 years References available

21-52 April 11.indd 41

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS ❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

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Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing and gates Closeboard, trellis, panels, picket, chainlink, security etc

• Landscaping Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.

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David Hawkins Tree Surgeon

All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turﬁng • Stump grinding Fruit tree pruning

For a free consultation in the Swindon area call Jill Blackwood on:

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or e-mail: gillian.blackwood@ntlworld com www.jillblackwoodgardendesign.co.uk

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17/03/2011 11:22

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Shop at the German bakery on wheels

A supplier of a range of breads, pastries and foodstuffs from Germany makes a weekly stop in West Swindon.

Stefan Hamann with customers Lisa Mullen and Sarah Erin and Bettina Sullivan

G N I T A R O

DEC

The business run by Stefan Hamann for the last three years from his base in south west London supplies German people and others who enjoy German foods with fresh bread and difﬁcult to obtain foods. Stefan said, “Germany has many different breadmaking traditions and we try to supply a wide range to our customers. Our hundred per cent gluten free is popular with people who have a wheat intolerance.”

Lisa Mullen, one of the coordinators of the German playgroup which meets at the Salt Way Centre in Middleleaze, said, “Stefan is providing a great service to Germans and people with connections to Germany. “We think there are many more people in Swindon who would like to know about his mobile service.” For details and to enquire about special orders, contact Stefan via: www.gbgermanbakery.co.uk

E H T H WIT LISTS A I C E P S Everything you need Paints, Wood Treatments, Wallcoverings, Curtains, Fabrics & Blinds, Specialists Coatings, Access Equipment and more.

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21-52 April 11.indd 42

18/03/2011 15:44

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Candidate ‘sitting’ for May’s campaign

Michael Heal from Shaw will be seeking election to Swindon Council in May to express his dissatisfaction with the way the coalition government is treating people with disabilities. Confined to a courses for adults. wheelchair since Michael said peo2001 as a result of ple with disabilities lower lumber dewere being put ungeneration after a der unfair pressure fall, Michael does not by the government. believe his disability “Disabled people will confine his abilwant to be productive ity to campaign for members of society, if the Shaw & Nine society will allow us. Elms seat, despite beBut what’s happening ing in constant pain. instead is that the govHe said, “it’s about ernment is having a go understanding and at the most vulnerable managing my condiby cutting benefits tion; preparation and with no sense of the rest are key for me. I effect this will have have a team of friends on people’s lives. who are going to help “It will be nice to me distribute leaflets say to people who are and assist with meeting people on afraid to have a go at things that if the doorstep.” I can do it anybody can.” Michael’s accident took place while he was head of music at Members of the Swindon and DisReading College and he could not trict branch of Parkinson’s UK will continue to work because the music be manning Parkinson’s Awaredepartment was upstairs without ness Week information points at: disabled access. From school he Highworth Co-op supermarket on spent ten years as a military musi- Monday 11 April, and Sainsbury’s, cian with the Queen’s Royal Irish Bridgemead on Thursday 14 April. Hussars before retraining as a teacher, achieving a degree aged 34, For details, call Linda Duthie on and developing a series of access 878921.

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Make your house a home \

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17/03/2011 11:30

Skyline Heating Services Ltd Gas or Oil Heating Systems and replacements Heating servicing and repairs Plumbing and Bathroom installations 5 year boiler warranties

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• All aspects of Heating and Plumbing undertaken • Boiler and central heating installations and repairs • Gas safety certificates • Bathroom design & installation • General repairs and servicing • No VAT on labour

Including Extensions Loft Conversions Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating

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21-52 April 11.indd 44

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& Property Renovation Services Fuse board upgrade, Rewiring, New sockets, Lighting, Cooker & Shower installations No job too small Kitchen & Bathroom reﬁts and anything else in between Free quotations and no call out charge Call Iain on 01793 851374 or 07860 689695 e-mail: iain@dixiain.co.uk

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Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including:

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18/03/2011 15:14

West Swindon Plumbing

Call Charlie for a free no obligation quote on all your plumbing needs Covering Swindon and surrounding areas EXAMPLE PRICING: Bathrooms replacement £250 No callout charge. OAP discount All work guaranteed.

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• Kitchen/bathroom upgrades • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps • Flat pack furniture • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham

All heating and plumbing works undertaken

• Full central heating systems • Boiler changes / services and repairs • Power flushing • Full bathroom / ensuite installations • General plumbing works • Free quotes and realistic prices

Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039

hwheating@googlemail.com

for a Free Estimate

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Local family run business providing high quality windows & doors to Swindon for over 20 years

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

Painting & Decorating General Property Maintenance With over 20 years experience Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating; Ceramic Tiling; Laminate Flooring; Bricklaying; Plastering; Artexing; Felt Roofing; General Building Work

Deal with a specialist NOT salesmen Call today for a free no obligation quote

Excellent references available Free advice & quotations

Tel: 01793 341546 or 07799118283

Contact Gary on 01793 325194 or 07907732601

www.boundary-windows.co.uk

DL Property Services

217129

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The highest attention to detail Large range of styles and colours Windows • Doors • Composite Doors Fascias, Soffits, Guttering Fensa Registered

Home Improvement Specialist A local reliable & friendly service

01793 728039 or 0784 182 6390

Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

J’s Electrical Haydon Wick Heating Services

• Extensions • Driveways • Conservatories • Patios • Garden Walls • Fencing All general building and landscaping projects undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Stewart on

• Artex covered smooth • Plastering ceiling & walls • Re-boarding • Stud partition walls • Coving • Painting • Hanging & re-hanging doors • Wall & floor tiling • Laminate & wood floor installation • UPVC windows & doors Free estimates. Quality service guaranteed

Call David on 07796 262942 or 01793 702742 dlpropertyservices@yahoo.co.uk

gkpropertymaintenance@yahoo.co.uk

ASHDOWN BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Design to Installation • • • •

PLUMBING CARPENTRY TILING ELECTRICS

All Work Guaranteed. Quality Finish And Attention To Detail Is Assured. No Job Too Small

Call Mark: 01793 887766 Mob: 07979 267757

www.bathrooms-swindon.co.uk FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE

24/7 Emergency Call Out • All Works Guaranteed • Reliable & Affordable

Bathroom Design & Installation

Kitchen Design & Installation

Complete Garage Conversions

Natural Stone Wall & Floor Tiling

Wall Removal & RSJ Installations

Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling

Plumbing

Internal alterations

Patios Decking & Fencing

Shed & Hot Tub Bases

Free Quotations

Full Public Liability Insurance

email: steve@lydiardpropertysolutions.co.uk

• Full Central Heating Installations • Boiler Replacement, Servicing & Repair • All Plumbing & Maintenance Services • Full Bathroom Installations • Landlord & Letting Agent Services • Renewable Energy Installations

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Telephone: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710150644

21-52 April 11.indd 45

Swindon’s Heating & Plumbing Specialists

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MAINTENANCE

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Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available Electrical Painting & Decorating Tiling • Plastering Carpentry

Call Andrew on 07718 022201 • Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

21-52 April 11.indd 46

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

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q Alterations q Fencing q Patios q Conservatories q Painting & Decorating

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Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

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The complete package in bathroom installation including wall and floor tiling, underfloor heating and plumbing. All work guaranteed with references available Attention to detail and finish our priority For free friendly estimate please contact DARREN BAKER-STEWART on

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tCentral heating installations tAll Plumbing work undertaken tServicing & repairs tBathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com

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• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

PLASTERING

Forest Plastering Services

KTL

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CALL FREE - 0800 0320588 or 07876 505448

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Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes Floor screeding Small building works No job too small

Home: 01793 709811 Mobile: 07778 665115

18/03/2011 15:15

BUILDING SERVICES

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Paul Rhind

4 4 4 4 4 4

Extensions Conservatories Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving

For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

HOME MAINTENANCE Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman

• Plastering • Carpentry • Garden Maintenance, • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Fencing & Patios • Power Jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive Rates, Flexible Hours, Reliable, No job too small

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

ROOFING

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING Established Swindon decorator experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating ✓ Domestic, commercial & letting ✓ Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues’ ✓ Competitive rates (no VAT) ✓ Excellent references ✓ Registered and recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association ✓ Full public liability insurance

Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307

HOME MAINTENANCE Painting and decorating Carpentry services Grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Kitchen installations Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

TILING

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❇ ❇ ❇

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

21-52 April 11.indd 47

J&R Carpentry Services

❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

Kitchens, bathrooms, conservatories and all natural stone. Call Leon for a quote on: Tel: 01793 524147 Mob: 07919255673

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J S Property Services Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

Free estimates Call Jamie on 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS Extensions/Rewires New Installations Testing and Inspection Security Lighting Showers & Fuseboxes Free quotes • 24 hour call out

01793 878609 07885 543294

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

Steve George

G R SERVICES

HOUSEMARTIN The Roofing Specialist

CARPENTRY

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

ALL KITCHENS FITTED

(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite

COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture APPROVED

30 years experienced tradesman

TILING

TileSure

CERAMIC TILING Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with ALL SEASONS 24 HR PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

QUALITY FINISH Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

TILING

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

18/03/2011 15:15

ACCOUNTANCY Lynette White MAAT Accounting Services 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT Returns Payroll Sole Trader & Ltd Co Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625 Email: lynettewhite48@uwclub.net Lynette White is licensed and regulated by the AAT under licence number 5014

CARPET CLEANING

ACCOUNTANCY SJ BAKER ACCOUNTING A personal service for small businesses & individuals

V Year End Accounts V Tax Advice V Bookkeeping V VAT Returns V Payroll & PAYE V Self Assessments V Corporation Tax V Management Accounts FREE initial consultation available evenings and weekends

Telephone: 01793 737087 Mobile: 07717752116 www.sjbakeraccounting.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING

Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member Independently owned & operated To arrange for a free estimate, call free on

0808 1554787

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

CLEARANCE

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable

You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

AERIAL SERVICES

Chris Payne

aerials & satellite systems ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points NO VAT

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

CLEANING THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £16 per house. Around £26 for a 4 bed. Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans. One-off Spring cleans Ironing £16 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

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Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300

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Bluebelles Cleaning We can clean your home for you and offer a quality service • Weekly, fortnightly & one-off cleans • Fully insured and pet friendly • Reliable and trustworthy • References available • Local business • Ironing service also available For a free quotation or further information call Mandy on

07955 374 201

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Computer problems? Let us help

• Garden Clearance • House Clearance • Business Waste • Confidential Waste • Tree Cutting & Hedge Trimming • Driveway Rip ups • Builders Waste • Supplies (Collection & Delivery) THE EASY ALTERNATIVE TO A SKIP Free quotes from Pete on 07563 181 500 or email: enquiries@absolute-rubbish.co.uk

www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk

GARAGE DOORS

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Estate, Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel 01793 878176 • Fax 01793 882639 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

21-52 April 11.indd 48

We provide a range of computer services for both home and business including: • PC repairs and maintenance • System upgrades, networking • Custom built computers • Windows home server installs • Virus removal • Data recovery • Internet solutions With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

Tel: 01793 325685

LOCKSMITH

OVEN CLEANING Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT? Local Locksmith and Carpenter Not a call centre with huge charges! Genuine 24hr service

Call now on 07734 253189 Registered Company CRB Checked/Fully Insured

Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £35 - Range £55 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call

01793 602550 or email:

oven@enlan.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves also undertaken

18/03/2011 15:21

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

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

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Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEANING

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Swindon

h h h h h h

Domestic and Commercial End of Tenancy Cleaning Stain Removal Quality Products Used Quick Drying Free Competitive Quote

Soft landing in school playground

Children at Haydon Wick Primary School can now take more risk at playtime, thanks to a safety surface under their new climbing frame sponsored by two Swindon companies, Arval, the vehicle contract hire specialist providers at Windmill Hill Business Park and tyre ﬁrm ATS. Drew Chapman, relationship manager for Arval, said, “we like to work with our suppliers to support community projects and promote recycling. Michelin, which owns ATS, covered all the costs of supplying and installing the rubber from recycled tyres.” Drew Chapman and Georgina Hartley of ATS with exuberant Haydon Wick children

Mobile: 07506 740921

Email: sford1983@gmail.com

CLEARANCE

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Landscape firm offers grass alternative

Link advertiser Acer Paving has had a positive reaction to artificial grass which has been recently introduced to its landscaping services. Acer has already completed for workmanship and customer several domestic lawns locally, two service. This has been borne out school play areas and a play area at by the high level of repeat business and referrals which complement The Sun Inn, Coate Water. The company has recently be- the good response we get from come a members of The Marshalls advertising in The Link. “I believe in true transparency register, the leading paving installer in my business and we’re happy scheme in the UK. Acer is also applying to Swindon to show the wide range of projects Council’s trading standards Buy undertaken on our web site and with Confidence scheme which encourage customers to review our work at Freeindex. I’m pleased to ensures fair trade practices. Proprietor Gary Cobb said, say we’re currently ranked first out “garden landscaping and paving of 796 landscaping firms in the UK.” To book in a project this year, has been my passion since forming Acer in 1995. We really have strived contact Gary on 729200 or see the to build up an enviable reputation work at www.acerpaving.co.uk

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

GARAGE DOORS Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981 Showroom:

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR

Quality work built on experience

Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

SCRAP METAL

RODDERS SCRAP METAL

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT

All metals removed FREE of charge Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc. Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

21-52 April 11.indd 49

Call 01793 602540 for details

A heating, plumbing and renewable energy company from Shaw aims to bring the highest standard of workmanship and professionalism to Swindon and surrounding areas. Lee Flanagan, who has been working in the industry for the past 11 years, said his CentraHeat venture provides a high quality service at an affordable price, whether it is replacing a tap washer or installing a new central heating system. “We respect and appreciate people’s customers is honesty and comconcern about having work done. munication. Once you have used This is why we take as much care CentraHeat, you are our customer protecting your decoration, carpets 24/7 not just while we are in your and personal belongings as we do home.” carrying out the required work. Contact Lee on 878636 or 07739 “Our approach to a successful 357617. See the advert on page 45. and lasting relationship with our www.centraheat.co.uk

18/03/2011 16:27

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Church recognised for being child friendly

TERRY WINTER

MONUMENTAL STONEMASON New memorials - Additional inscriptions Old memorials cleaned and renovated Free estimates • BRAMM accredited Over 25 years’ experience Tel: 01793 861035 or 07935 309644 email: terry.winter@hotmail.co.uk

ANYTHING TRANSFERRED ONTO DVD DISC Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ

Stitches Sewing Service

Dressmaking, Alterations and Repairs, Bespoke Costumes

Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc.

Friendly, reliable service Contact Jean on 07887 600319

Emmanuel United Reformed Church, Haydon Wick, has been approved to receive the Child Friendly Church Award. The award scheme was created by looking for a church the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool that will cater for them and has been adopted by many of and their children. C h u rc h e s m u s t the mainstream churches across the UK. It aims to help families who are show that they offer a safe environment, for children Be a better computer user groups and young people RSA qualified mature student from 0 to 18 years offers private lessons in getting and opportunities for more out of your PC and/or using them to be listened to Microsoft software. Times to suit, and included across tailor-made lessons. Reasonable rates. church life. Contact Angela on 07732 681881 or: Lucy Gough, one of mouseclicks4adults@gmail.com the children’s group leaders said, “we identified early on that the actions we needed to take to meet the award · Grass Cutting · Hedge Cutting criteria would make · Weeding and general tidying us friendlier to people · One-off tidy up or regular maintenance of all ages, not just children: like getting Tel: 01793 874806 more members trained Mob: 07943 172523 in first aid, improving A church for them, Ella and Isobel Cleary the heating in one of with Brodie Lee and Harvey Jeans our rooms and involving more young people in leading makes to their life, their feedback included: ‘freedom to express yourworship. “The most nervous moments self,’ ‘gives me a reason to get up on Lawn & Hedge Cutting • Maintenance General Garden Tidy • Patios • Turfing were the audit visits last October Sundays’ and ‘happiness.’ Church members were delighted and November, but our auditor Give your garden a makeover to receive the news that the nawas really impressed with all the Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 work we had done and that we had tional committee had approved j.dowell@live.co.uk the support of the whole church Emmanuel to receive the award certificate and a plaque to display community.” When young people were given on the outside of the building. On Thames Avenue the opportunity to state anony- www.emmanuelhaydonwick.org.uk next door to mously what difference church

GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Morrisons

Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Oﬃce on 874221 Email: partnershipoﬃce@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk

One man Passion Play for many Easter Saturday, 23 April, 7pm, Freshbrook Evangelical Church Professional actor Mark Topping retells events around the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through the eyes of the characters who were there. His stage version is adapted from a book written by his father, author, broadcaster and Methodist minister Frank Topping. Entry is by ticket from the church office for a suggested donation of £2 for adults, to help towards costs; under-18s free. Send a letter requesting tickets with cheque and sae for return of the tickets to Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8NU or call 873050.

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

21-52 April 11.indd 50

18/03/2011 15:18

swindonlink.com • April 2011

Lent giving for tsunami survivors







 

 

Our gourmet cuisine transforms fresh ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Come; experience freshly prepared food from our live cooking station.

 £  

01793 877888



With Holy Week approaching - and to mark the 400th anniversary of the translation of the Bible into English - Swindon Churches Together has taken an ambitious approach to illustrating the events leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Schools, colleges and other by those who are seeing it with fresh church groups across the town have eyes and heard by those who may chosen one of 16 Bible texts and have little appreciation of it. Graham Kings, now Bishop of used art forms like painting, video, drama, poetry and photography to Sherborne, once said that ‘the good create a ‘station’ for people to visit news always bounces back to us from Palm Sunday on 17 April to when we share it.’ The organising Easter Monday, 25 April. They will group for the Swindon Churches be found in a variety of locations project realised that asking others to around the town: West Swindon partner meant letting go of control Centre, libraries, the designer of what might be created. It seems outlet and shop windows in the to me this was exactly the right tactic and I fully expect the stations town centre.

For booking please call:



Art stations to create Easter pilgrimage trail around the town

Address: Pepperbox Hill Meadway Peatmoor West Swindon SWINDON SN5 5YZ



Children at Toothill’s Oliver Tomkins Church of England Primary School have decided their Lent appeal promises should be donated to victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. During a week of fundraising in March they took part in odd sock and inside out fundraising days and wet sponge throws which raised £448 for earthquake relief. On 18 March a monster mask day raised a further £102 for Comic Relief. Appeal coordinator Sue MacDonald said, “the ter- to be sent to help people who have rible scenes pupils have witnessed been left with nothing. ”The £550 raised in one week has from Japan have moved them immensely and they spontaneously been amazing given the difﬁcult asked for all their Lent fundraising times many families face.”

Opening Times & Prices Allday

Lunch

Monday – Saturday 12noon - 3pm

£5.95

Dinner

Monday – Saturday 5.30pm - 11.30pm

Sunday

12noon - 11pm

£9.95

* Children under 1.4m / 4’7” Eat for half price

£9.95

The Management reserves the right to make changes without prior notice.

Monday to Thursday Special Offer

Bishop Lee with the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Rex and Sandra Barnett holding The Real Easter Egg made from Fairtrade chocolate. Swindon Churches Together is distributing 1,000 eggs via the Filling Station and Swindon Foodbank and at art trail Easter stations on Saturday 23 April

A leaﬂet is being produced to link the Bible text and the artworks on show. People with smartphones will be able to download the texts using QR technology. The Bishop of Swindon Rev Lee Rayﬁeld said there was growing enthusiasm for the project. “The story of Jesus’ journey will be told

21-52 April 11.indd 51

to show angles on the gospel that will refresh our sense of how good this news of Holy Week really is. “Whoever thought that Swindon might become a place of pilgrimage?” Details of the pilgrimage route will be found at www.swindonchurches.org clos er to Holy Week.

Expiry date: 30th April 2011 ----------------------------------------

This voucher entitles you pay for 2 meals when you having 3 meals in a single receipt Please present this voucher to the waiters/waitress at first (Terms & Conditions apply) 1 Voucher to be used per Group of 3 peoples. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer/voucher. This voucher cannot be exchanged for cash.

18/03/2011 11:46

Spring into Shape! First Month Free!* Unlimited access to: • 5 Gyms • 6 Swimming Pools • 100+ Fitness Classes • Ice Skating • Health Suite & Turkish Baths • The Ridge Climbing Wall • Athletics Track Offer available 02.04.11 until 08.05.11. *Terms and conditions apply.

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18/03/2011 15:32