August 2010 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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Moon bear gets a Fete on 1 August Swindon name to help children’s Find out what it is centre fund - see page 15 on page 35

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No. 339 August 2010 • Circulation 27,000

on paper, online - the positive newsforce in Swindon

Link joins STFC in New England

Glad to be alive

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Ann Pope, glad to still have husband Ivor after quick action by Link staff. See page 30

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Uplands help needed

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New independent school for boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years Small classes, high standards Registration now open

Work to create memorial garden underway. See how you can contribute on page 3

Juliana Rattey from New Brunswick takes a break from soccer camp to read the July edition. Read the Swindon connection on page 33

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16/07/2010 12:13

swindonlink.com • August 2010

NEW TO WEST SWINDON

Hope that green fields to the west can be saved

After years of publicity in The Link, and several public meetings earlier this year, there is hope that proposals to build 3,000 houses on the edge of Swindon, in Wiltshire, can be stopped.

Under the Labour government’s Regional Spatial Strategy for long term development (RSS) planners at Wiltshire Council pursued a policy to create urban extensions Fine Indian restaurant and takeaway to the town - 800 houses at Ridgebar lounge way Farm, north of Peatmoor, and another 2,000 at Pry Farm, further NOW OPEN AT SHAW RIDGE LEISURE PARK north on either side of the B4553 close to Purton. To book call: 01793 872872 or 872870 Now the government has announced the RSS will be killed off. FREEPHONE Communities secretary Eric Pickles 0800 Clivey ad -0281523 AUG10 qx:Layout described 1 12/7/10 Pagestyle 1 it as a10:23 failed Soviet

top-down planning system. “It was a terrible, expensive, timeconsuming way to impose house building and worst of all threatened the destruction of green belt.” In Parliament Justin Tomlinson said new methods are needed to balance the need for housing and prevent rampant development. In the Commons he referred to the lack of green space in North Swindon, the problems people experience with unfinished roads and the lack of parking. He is calling for a bond system where developers pay in advance for site maintenance and completion. Robert Buckland said he supports government proposals to create incentives for communities. “Councils should be offered significant financial incentives by developers to accept new housing so that they will have the funds to create the necessary infrastructure, providing existing residents participate fully in consultation on any proposals.” Taylor Wimpey Homes has already produced outline plans for Ridgeway Farm and a full planning application is expected. The present boundary with Wiltshire was determined at a planning enquiry in 1986. However the developers will no doubt argue that a degree of planning precedent was set when the area was originally

Toothill to benefit from huge boost There will be an announcement by the national lottery at the end of July which will offer Toothill a major investment in community development. Unfortunately the official notice will be made after The Link goes to press and we are unable to provide the details. However they will be publicised at www.swindonlink.com

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proposed by Swindon as part of the town’s ‘western expansion’ in the early 1980s. Wiltshire councillors representing the Purton area are arguing that previously agreed green belt policies should be reinstated. At a full meeting of Swindon Council on 15 July, a resolution by Coun Nick Martin was agreed requiring the council to rewrite its core planning strategy with emphasis on lower levels of housing growth whilst allowing large scale development only if there is significant financial contribution towards infrastructure by developers and government.

Wiltshire Council has to debate Ridgeway Farm petition - sign now In June 2010, a new duty on local authorities came into force requiring councils to pay more attention to petitions. In the past they have often been dismissed as a product of a few maverick individuals, but no longer. With councils being given more responsibility for local planning decisions, they have also been told by government that the electorate’s viewpoint has to be taken more into account. And Wiltshire Council has to listen to what Swindon folk say because they’ll be affected by planning decisions. Wiltshire has set its figure to trigger a full council debate at 2.5% of the population (about 11,500 signatures). To get the Ridgeway Farm debate into the council chamber as soon as possible, environmental group Purton P&Qs has set up a petition for you to sign at: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/ridgewayfarm/ See also www.purtoninfo.org.uk and www.swindonlink.com

16/07/2010 12:49

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Memorial garden cash needed

Work is underway at Uplands Special Needs School in North Swindon to build a place to remember four children who have died this year, and help is needed to cover the cost of materials. Garden designer Jill Blackwood, who agreed to get involved after being approached by The Link, has come up with a design and over twenty staff from Zurich will be doing site preparation on 25 August. What’s needed is donations of materials - hardcore, sand and paving slabs, wood for raised beds, trees and shrubs - or Jill Blackwood, centre, showing her design to Jackie cash to purchase it with. Smith, right, and Lynn-Marie Tomlin and Joe Rowe Artist Gordon Dick- who will lead the Zurich team inson has been commissioned to create a sculpture repre- a substantial amount of the heavy senting young people supporting work, but we’re also looking for donations of materials or money and caring for each other. Jill said she aimed to create an so that we can dedicate the garden outdoor sanctuary. “There will be a in the Autumn. It will give us a lawn and planting beds, a gathering positive focal point to remember point by the sculpture and another our pupils by.” Zurich staff are also fundraising space where up to 15 people can and the company is doubling its meet and reﬂect. “A lot of paving is required to usual matching contribution to 100 allow several wheelchairs to access per cent. On 25 June a parents and the site at the same time and this staff snooker evening at the 147 Club raised £1,000. will be quite costly.” To help the Uplands project conHeadteacher Jackie Smith said she is delighted Zurich staff are tact Jackie Smith on 493910 or mail: taking on the challenge. “They’ll do head@uplands.swindon.sch.uk

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West urban oasis to become co-op

Lower Shaw Farm, the award winning educational and cultural centre in West Swindon, is to become a co-operative as it strives to secure its long-term future. The farm on Old Shaw Lane has, for about 35 years, given adults and children the chance to work, learn and play in a rural setting within the town. Apart from a wide range of courses, the farm hosts a popular weekly community cafe and is home to the Swindon Festival of Literature. In 2009 it won the Observer newspaper’s Ethical Garden Award. Yet the future of the farm is still beset with uncertainty. In 2006 Swindon Council considered selling the 200 year old listed farmhouse and the three acre site for Ethical garden award winners, Lower Shaw Farm tenants Andrea Hirsch and commercial development. Matt Holland, with volunteers Daniela The Link threw its weight behind Novak, Melissa McBride and Rachel Clark the campaign to save the farm which resulted in huge local and supporters of Lower Shaw Farm national support. Borough council- will be able to become stakeholders lors agreed to extend the lease and in the cooperative. West Swindon councillor Steve negotiations about a long term solution have been going on ever since. Wakefield said he welcomed the Now the farm is to become a Soci- move. “The farm is a superb asset ety for the Benefit of the Community. to the Swindon community; it is a Tenant Andrea Hirsch said, fantastic example of social capital. “thanks to Co-operative Futures, The council should resolve this unwe’re incorporating and receiving certainty quickly and give the site to sound business advice. Becoming the Lower Shaw Farm cooperative. www.lowershawfarm.co.uk part of the wider network of co• Read the full story at www.swinoperatives is really exciting.” After details have been finalised, donlink.com

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16/07/2010 11:55

swindonlink.com • August 2010

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Flying the flag for Redhouse

As David Cameron promotes his ideas for a Big Society, where more people get involved with their local communities, Juliet Platt meets Redhouse’s own big society role model, former teacher and mum of two Ellie Hunt. Since being voted chairperson of tions to the Redhouse meetings.” Originally from Barrow in CumRedhouse Residents’ Association in March 2010, Ellie has attracted bria, Ellie attributes her strong comlots of attention, not just for her munity drive to her up-bringing. community work but also for her “My parents owned a shop on an inspirational leadership style and estate where everyone knew everysolution-focussed approach to lo- one,” said Ellie. “Even now my dad can remember who got what paper cal issues. “Our membership has grown at what address. “It’s the little everyday links that from about 20 to 30 people in January 2009 to a current level of about make communities; things like how 160,” Ellie said. “It’s important to you find a baby-sitter and how you take the association out to people get to know local mums when your rather than waiting for them to children are dispersed across different schools. come to us.” “To be honest we Being a mum of don’t realise how young children herlucky we are here in self, Ellie understands Redhouse. You can the difficulties people walk to a lot of the face in attending evefacilities you need like ning meetings. She also shops, library, nurserhosts regular coffee ies, doctors, playparks mornings at her home and schools. The main in Addinsell Road, and problems have been in organises social events for families so that there are more the lack of a holistic approach in the opportunities for people in the planning decisions.” Traffic, nursery school places, community to voice their concerns. “With so much development sharing space with builders and going on around us we need to encouraging leisure groups in the make sure we shout about the community are high on Ellie’s things that are important to us, agenda. While she sees herself likely before Redhouse is forgotten and to become more involved with lobefore problems are made worse cal issues in the future, Ellie also by neighbouring developments,” hankers after creating a gardening club. “I’m a bit of an eco-womble Ellie said. “Just getting the information out and have filled my garden with there releases people’s frustrations plants that the developers were so they can understand where throwing away,” she said. No doubt she will see her comthings have gone wrong and then take action to fix them,” said Ellie. munity ‘seed planting’ bear much “It’s no use just moaning a lot. I fruit in months to come. www.redhouseresidents.org encourage everyone to bring solu-

Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

advertising Enquiries Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for September advertisements: 2 August “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.

Editorial copy for September by 6 Aug Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.” Published: 28 August Copy for October by 3 September The contents of The Link are protected Swindon Link /swindonlink

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.

The Link 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

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15/07/2010 15:55

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Doing more with more in the future Council has to change to cope with the times, says Chief Exec As the coalition government’s scythe slashes through public spending, this is not a time for gloom and doom says Swindon Council’s Chief Executive Gavin Jones. In fact he believes it’s a time to think creatively about how the energy of people can be captured for the benefit of community good. discuss how services Over a year ago the council short time, the people can be delivered to launched Connecting People, of Swindon will know the community. No Connecting Places, where seven how many jobs and longer is it about neighbourhood ‘clusters’ based services are going to councillors making on electoral wards were set up, be cutback as a result. decisions in the couneach supported by an experienced Yet council taxes cil offices; councils senior council officer responsible will remain at the cannot be telling for: same level and people people what’s going • promoting and enhancing a may feel they’re not to happen. There has sense of community; getting the same ser• enabling meaningful discussion vices, although - by government to be negotiation and brokering of between ward councillors and direction - schools and social care ideas and proposals; we have to be citizens about community con- services to vulnerable people will more answerable to people. “At the same time people have to cerns and involvement in decision get priority. making; According to Gavin Jones the commit their time and be engaged • developing ways to deliver Connecting People, Connecting in discussion with councillors and public services that are more tuned Places has taken on a new sig- officers; there are difficult choices to local needs, whilst recognising nificance. “What started as trying to be made. “This isn’t about doing more with the limits upon public agencies. to find a way to get more people This was the council’s attempt involved in the issues affecting less. I firmly believe the changes to respond to the low level of their communities and to build a Swindon faces should be about community participation in local stronger pride in their area, is now making the town a stronger comgovernment - even though the influ- also about having serious conversa- munity. Rather than be limited in our ence and impact of local councils on tions about the future make-up of outlook, we’re talking about doing more with more - by tapping into everybody’s lives is huge. neighbourhoods. Since the election the coalition “The council will not be able to do the talent and capacity of residents government has been keen to give as much as it used to, but it still has to make things happen.” people a say in what laws should to deliver services to those most in • Has the first year of Connecting be repealed, they want ideas on need. And the government has made People, Connecting Places engaged where money can be saved, and it clear that councils have to work you? Let us know if you and your the Conservative element of the much more closely with communi- council are interacting together. coalition talk about a Big Society. ties to agree how to move forward. However government expendi“More than ever residents have to ture is being slashed and within a sit down with elected councillors to

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North Swindon litter action squad

Members of Red Oaks Primary School Charity Club decided that they had to do something about the litter problem in Redhouse area of North Swindon and spent a lunchtime in early July picking up other people’s mess. Club coordinator Maggie Hartridge said the children cleared the play park close to the school and were amazed by how much rubbish they collected.

Recruiting staff for new store

John Lewis is looking for 180 full, part time and temporary partners for its ‘at home’ shop which will open at Mannington this Autumn. The new outlet will sell furniture, A range of roles including entryhomeware, furnishing accessories, level positions for those looking to electricals and home technology begin a career in retail are on offer. and also have an in-store cafe. Experience is not essential as John Lewis is committed to fostering talent and training its staff to the highest level with opportunities to progress into management. • See the full story at www.swindonlink.com

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15/07/2010 15:57

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Freshbrook Community Centre open week 26 - 31 July Find out more about the groups using the building and how to hire the centre Fun day Saturday 31 July Opened by the Mayor of Swindon at 2pm Family games, Irish dancing, talent show, rodeo bull, bungee run, bar. Evening disco.

Coffee and health Swindon NHS Health Ambassadors Sam Harper and Matt Glover, below, hold a coffee morning every Friday, 8.45am to 10.45am in Freshbrook Community Centre to discuss options for healthy eating, taking more exercise, stopping smoking and drinking sensibly. Turn up and chat or call Sam on 07818 510515.

Celebrating community in the West

The Link Centre and the West Swindon Forum came together on 10 July to mark the twenty-fifth year since the building opened its doors and also celebrate the community that has developed around it since the first people arrived in the town’s ‘western expansion’ 34 years ago. Sports clubs put on demonstrations of basketball and martial arts and centre staff ran children’s keep fit sessions and Body Attack routines. Local groups like Freshbrook Community Centre and Swindon Twin Peaks walking group also put on stands, whilst the police and a number of council departments such as Streetsmart organised information displays. Event coordinator and long time resident Pam Pixton said the day was the first of its kind and showed the range of organisations involved in the area. “West Swindon is a place where several generations have grown up and because it’s an attractive place, many have stayed to bring up their own children or to look after grandchildren. It’s been Comparing then and now. Holding back copies of The Link published when Link an amazing journey.” Centre was built. (We were responsible for naming the building). Robert Buckland Nicky Howard from Freshbrook MP, right, with Rachel Aplin and her children, Joy Doerr and Coun Peter Greenhalgh said the photographs displayed on some stands had brought back a is closeby. I wouldn’t want to live with a group of women who I used to go to a toddler group with over lot of memories. “Honestly, about anywhere else.” Jacqueline Kirwen from Grange twenty years ago. We lost touch 30 years ago, having been brought up in the country I didn’t want to Park commented that she had col- when we went back to work but come here and I really didn’t like it lected every Link magazine pub- now we get together to catch up lished. “I’ve been keeping them for with our own children’s careers, at first; it was like Legoland. “But my children grew up and my children because they represent and talk about what it’s like to be a grandmother and how the area I met lots of people and came to local history. “Recently I’ve started to meet up has changed. like it. Nearly everything I need

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swindonlink.com • August 2010

Link Centre to remain a key facility in coming years

Link Centre will be an important feature of West Swindon and the whole town for the foreseeable future, according to Councillor Nick Martin. The chairman of the West Swindon Forum said at the 25th celebration anniversary day on 10 July, “clearly the building is very important to the thousands of users who visit it every year. “If the economy was different and the borough council had income from land sales we would be looking for major reinvestment in leisure facilities in the area. But this isn’t an option and we have to find ways of sustaining Link Centre in a time of financial belt tightening. “I think the fabric is holding up pretty well because of planned maintenance, but there is a major task ahead to make the roof more weather tight.” • Link Centre is used annually by some 900,000 visitors • See construction pictures from the 1980s at www.swindonlink.com

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Bus cuts to cause problems for passengers

The rationalisation of Thamesdown Transport services from 18 July will cause a lot of inconvenience to many people, it was claimed at the West Swindon Forum on 12 July. The connection between West Bus company managing director and North Swindon has been sev- Paul Jenkins is to be invited to the ered and there is no longer a service next forum meeting on Monday 13 from the west to the railway station. September to discuss the cutbacks.

Police crack down on out of order youth

Inspector Adrian Burt told the forum that the Neighbourhood Police Teams in West Swindon were spending over 85 per cent of their time on patrol in the area, 50 per cent of which is on foot or bike. Since May they have carried out cers trained to use police trailbikes 140 visits to Shaw Village Centre, have been active and will be regucarried out 26 stop and searches and larly patrolling during the summer taken 8 disorderly young people holidays,” said Insp. Burt. “I advise parents to ensure that mini-motors back to their parents. He said licensed premises know are used correctly and for owners to they will be hit hard if they sell to secure them against theft.” He said all his NPT officers were anybody underage but expressed concern that the majority of under now trained in mediation and they 15s being picked up for drunk and would be trying to sort out a number disorderly behaviour and returned of long running local disputes over home are stealing booze from home, the coming months. However he or being given it by their parents. is worried about a rise in ‘violence “My officers have been told to in- against the person.’ “This figure has convenience parents by having to been low but since April we’ve had travel to Gablecross to collect their 150 violent incidents. It’s a worry that 41 per cent involve 14 to 17 children.” He added that several drug busts year olds, often related to events had taken place in Toothill, Fresh- starting in a school setting. “It’s an issue we’re concentrating brook and Grange Park and eight on, particularly over the summer arrests made. Four mini-motors used without holidays.” insurance in public places had been • On the beat in North Swindon on seized and three destroyed. “Offi- page 34

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16/07/2010 13:04

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Head says farewell to Oliver Tomkins

Elizabeth Wood has stepped down after ten years as headteacher of Oliver Tomkins Church of England Junior School in Toothill but will continue to live closeby in Grange Park. She said she has not yet mapped out a future the dog or at West Swindon Centre and they but hopes to rediscover hobbies like writing always speak fondly of their time at Oliver and painting which have been buried in the Tomkins. But I must apologise to them that I in-tray of a busy headteacher’s life. “I certainly don’t always recognise them as grown ups.” won’t miss the mountain of paperwork and Mrs Wood said she will also miss the fabugovernment directives schools have to deal lous staff she’s worked with over the years. with, but I am going to miss the children a “They have been a tremendous team and it’s great deal. so gratifying that so many have moved on into “It has been a wonderful experience helpsenior positions at other primary schools.” ing them grow and develop and the affection She added she has no plans to leave West they show you in return will be something I Swindon. “I’ve always enjoyed living and will always treasure. working here; it’s helped me understand the “I often meet former pupils whilst walking issues families have experienced. And West Swindon is a very nice place to live, I don’t know Right, Elizabeth Wood with Year 3 children a reason why we should go anywhere else.” Before training as a teacher sixteen years ago and starting at Westlea Primary, Mrs Wood was a management trainer and also worked as an advertising salesperson for The Link magazine. • Rhianne Cockwell, headteacher of Oliver Tomkins Infants School, will be interim head of both infant and junior schools from September. English, Mathematics and Science For age 7 upwards Personal workplans Fully qualified teachers Preparation for SATS & GCSE exams Free assessment and first lesson

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It pays to read Swindon Link West Swindon based online forum talkswindon obviously hasn’t been reading The Link for the last four years since Freshbrook and Windmill Hill primary schools combined as Millbrook Primary School on the former Freshbrook site, opening last September in a completely new building. But a discussion at talkswindon calls an empty and unused building on Uxbridge Road ‘Millbrook’ and suggests it could be a suitable place where a ‘free school’ could be opened. Drawing comparisons to the government sponsored competition to build and run Oakhurst Primary School in 2007 - which included a bid from a faith group - and no doubt trying to stir up controversy - it suggests ‘Millbrook’ might be suitable as a free school run by Muslims. Freshbrook & Grange Park councillor Peter Greenhalgh said, “these comments are somewhat inflammatory and unfair to staff and parents who have worked hard to establish Millbrook as a fantastic school serving the whole community.” Millbrook headteacher Clare Griffin-Felton said she was disappointed to learn of the discussion. “Millbrook is a very positive, happy school providing a great educa-

August 2007, Emily Loveridge receives a prize for designing the Millbrook logo from graphic artist Ant Hodges and headteacher Clare Griffin-Felton

tion to families in Freshbrook and contributing to the development of our community. It’s very sad that our name is being used to convey misleading information which we have absolutely nothing to do with.”

Below, the Windmill Hill school building was vacated in summer 2009 and after 25 years, the temporary building is not fit for purpose according to Swindon Council deputy leader Gary Perkins. “The council is looking for a buyer for the site; I hope we can move forward when the economy improves.” The land off Uxbridge Road was originally designated for housing before Wiltshire County Council had to build another primary school in the early 1980s to cope with the booming child population in the area.

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Rotary commit to helping epilepsy sufferers come together

Members of Rotary Club Swindon Thamesdown have launched a three year project to support people in town with epilepsy and also their family and friends who respond when a sufferer has a fit. build friendships and Paul Parfrey, who will be presi- shown the lack of supshare experiences, and dent of the club in 2012/13, said port for people with support funding for the current president John Fisher epilepsy in Swindon printed literature. and next year’s office holder Bob and my colleague offi“We’ve organised a Barrett had agreed to develop the cers in the club realised meeting at the Holiday project to help people like Leona the opportunity to do Inn, Coate Water on Mckee, right. His wife Lynn’s niece something positive for Thursday 9 September, suffers from severe epilepsy in all this particular com8pm, to bring sufferers its various forms and is now having munity. and families together.” “We’re still in the to consider a surgical procedure to To talk to Lynn and try and control the intensity of the early planning stages Paul Parfrey beforeand working towards fits she has. hand with ideas for Paul said, “Leona’s life and that of a support group which the new group call her family has been turned upside meets regularly, setdown since her diagnosis a few ting up a website where suffer- 07929 725708 or mail: rcst.epilepsy. years ago. Their experience has ers can talk to each other and project@gmail.com

Give your bony parts some attention

Did the agony of the football get your back up? Or perhaps you’ve overdone it trying to emulate Andy Murray; maybe you have just been suffering with a niggling backache for a while. If these sound familiar then you might beneﬁt from visiting Phil Yalden from Grange Park who has opened a new chiropractic practice at the Link Centre. Phil says, “often people suffer in silence and try to live with back problems, or they take pills that mask the pain but don’t seem to solve the problem. Chiropractic may help - it is an holistic drugfree approach that involves the chiropractor using their hands to detect and adjust areas of the body. patients are drawn to McTimoney “Research has shown that chiro- chiropractic because of its whole practic can be effective in helping body approach and emphasis on people who have back pain and using relatively gentle, but fast and backache. Some patients also seek precise adjustments. help for other complaints and use Phil’s rapidly expanding practice chiropractic care for continued has gained a reputation for his progood functioning and wellness.” fessional and friendly approach to After 20 years in science and IT, providing affordable chiropractic Phil has applied himself to the most care. He believes the location of elegant system of all - the human his practice at Link Centre will body. He trained at the McTimoney beneﬁt many people because of College of Chiropractic in Abing- ease of access don for over five years, which He is registered with the General included giving 400 chiropractic Chiropractic Council and is a memtreatments to patients at the col- ber of the McTimoney Chiropractic lege clinic. He explained that many Association.

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1 - 21 August 10.indd 10

New foot care service for older people

A new service has been introduced by Swindon NHS to assist the many older people who have difficulty with basic footcare and find the cost of private podiatry prohibitive. The service run by Swindon Council and the primary care trust is is based at the Clapham Hobbs Unit off Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill and costs £8.50 for a thirty minute session. Footcare can be booked on a six weekly basis by calling 644804, Monday to Friday, between 10am and 1pm. Val Vaughan, chair of Swindon Local Involvement Network (LINk) steering group, said, “after many years lobbying by local older people, it’s good to see the NHS and borough council have at last introduced this new service. It shows what can be achieved when local people make their views heard.” She added that Swindon LINk wants to know what people think about the service by writing to the LINk office, Voluntary Action Swindon, 1 John Street SN1 1RT, by calling 497777 or mailing: enquiries@ swindonlink.org. www.swindonlink.org

Acupuncture Could Improve Your Health Acupuncture is increasingly being recognised as beneficial for all kinds of Injury and Illness, including: • Joint and Muscle Pain - Back Pain, Frozen Shoulder, Sciatica, Sports Injuries • Headaches, Migraine • High Blood Pressure • Digestive and Bowel complaints • Stress, Anxiety, Depression • Insomnia • Low Energy, Chronic Fatigue • Circulatory, Respiratory Problems • Gynaecological problems - Infertility, Painful and Irregular Periods, Menopausal Symptoms • Arthritis • Boosting immune system

Private acupuncture clinic at Moredon Medical Centre in North Swindon currently offering free 20 minute consultations. For more information please call 07818 176271 or visit www.bendishmanacupuncture.com

15/07/2010 16:18

swindonlink.com • August 2010

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12 swindonlink.com • August 2010

Swindon Stammurai strike

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A group of young stammerers aged 13 to 18 have created an iPhone app which is now being played by well over 1,000 people in 24 countries.

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Our next auction is at BSS House, Cheney Manor on SATURDAY 7th AUGUST at 10am. For further information please email: info@swindonauctions.co.uk or visit our website: www.swindonauctions.co.uk

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Launching The Stammurai at Link Centre in June, from left, Clarissa Wu, Keira Marshall, Sammy Sangha, Joe Petit, Bernie Broomhall, Jessie Canfer

Entitled ‘The Stammurai,’ the game follows a young Samurai - the best in his class - who has conquered all his demons except one, his stammer. One day he decides to go on a quest to ﬁnd his voice and become the hero he always wanted to be. The app was created with help from Swindon based Evil Twin Artworks. Lead developer Mark Carroll said, “the young people had to master advanced software, understand production workﬂows and work as a team. We were very impressed at the level of dedication and professionalism of such a

young group.” Group member Keira Marshall said she and the other young people enjoyed working out the story and writing the app code. “It’s full of fun ideas about this character who can’t say the punchline and the app user has to help out.” The stammurai was made thanks to Mediabox, a UK fund that helps young people make media projects Search for ‘the Stammurai’ at the Apple iTunes store. No iPhone? Go to http://evileducation.org www.thefluencytrust.org.uk

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15/07/2010 10:13

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Bradon bus demand increases Bradon Forest headteacher Len Spiers says more children are choosing to travel to his school As readers of The Link will be aware, Swindon Council withdrew its funding for a bus service which had run for 47 years, to all new entrants to Bradon Forest School from September 2009. Over the last year we have organised our own service for new entrants from North and West Swindon, with two buses carrying 117 passengers. We have now completed arrangements for September 2010 Children from a range of primary schools using the and requirements Bradon bus service on induction days in early July have more than doubled. and West Swindon (Monday to We now have 250 pupils who will Thursday), as extra curricular actravel from Swindon; the expansion tivities are an important element of of our service in the second year school life at Bradon Forest. This late means we will offer four shorter service, also provided by Ellisons, is routes, all using Ellisons coaches. in addition to our free after-school As predicted the change in Swin- passes to use on the No 53 service don’s bus policy has increased the bus (Cricklade, Purton, Swindon), number of pupils from North Swin- which is routed into the school don who are able to choose Bradon grounds at various times between Forest. We now have over 90 pupils 5pm and 6.30pm. from the North Swindon primary If you would like further inforschools including Abbey Meads, mation about our Bradon Forest Bridlewood, Catherine Wayte, Or- bus service or admissions, please chid Vale, Red Oaks, St Francis and contact Emma Hayden on 770570 other schools in the area. or mail: haydene@bradonforest. We continue to run our 4.45pm wilts.sch.uk free after-school service to North www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

B e a u t i f u l B at h r o o m s

6th form plan for West Swindon

Now that pupils who start Year 9 in September will be expected to stay in some form of full time education or training until they reach the age of 18, Swindon schools are considering ways of providing courses and training opportunities beyond GCSEs taken in Year 11. currently decide to Greendown, go to Cirencester. Nova Hreod and It would do much Crowdys Hill to raise aspirations Special School are in the area and is developing a conachievable within sortium called WS6 the timeframe of to offer courses to the Raising ParWest and North ticipation Age legSwindon pupils. islation. Greendown Mr Zimmerman headteacher Clive Zimmerman, right, explained that said, “this proposal represents the Swindon Association of Second- a huge opportunity for all West ary Headteachers and the college Swindon pupils. Our goal is to offer principals agree that a single school a high quality provision that keeps sixth form would not be able to West Swindon students learning add significantly to current provi- locally.” The proposal now being consion. “We’ve been looking at the collaborative approach for 14 to 19 sidered by Swindon Council’s education, as can be seen at places Children Services is part of the like Kingswood in South Glouces- borough response to the Raising tershire, where pupils can access a of the Participation Age legislation wide range of courses at more than which is expected towards the end of the year. one learning centre. “Pooling students across insti- • The June Link reported that Isamtutions is also an effective way of bard School is preparing a proposal maintaining less popular courses to create 6th Form provision in North Swindon, possibly in new buildings in tight financial times.” He added that the proposal would in the Tadpole Farm development, give a significant boost to education north of Redhouse. This has yet to in West Swindon and would offer be considered for outline planning a local alternative to pupils who permission.

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15/07/2010 16:25

14 swindonlink.com • August 2010

Sociopaths must not be allowed to take territory

Middleleaze resident Brian Toft is calling on Swindon Council to replace swings destroyed by vandals in June, following an arson attack last year when a wooden climbing frame was burnt down at the play area adjacent to the Salt Way Centre. it will encourage them to destroy other play “I was outraged to see more damage to the areas enjoyed by families. play area,” said Brian. “It was a mindless crimi“I urge Swindon Council not to allow the nal act where somebody or several people have ‘broken society’ represented by these vandals gone there with a saw and cut down the four to impose itself on us and to find the resources wooden posts that supported the metal cross to reinstate the swings, this time with metal piece from which the children’s swings hung.” poles.” He added that Swindon Council’s parks A Swindon Council departments had acted swiftly to remove the spokeswoman said, damage and make the ground safe but Brian “we would love to is very concerned that the council does not repair the swings but intend to replace the equipment. the cost will be up “What seems to be happening is that these to £7,000 which the criminals want to remove anything attractive council doesn’t have to children and families so that they can claim in its play area mainthe territory and carry on activities which they tenance budget.” do not want the general public to observe, such Left, Brian and Ann Toft as the consumption of illegal drugs. with Emma. Right, the “This must not be allowed to happen; if the destroyed swings sociopaths see that they’re winning ground Shaw mum Donna Starr has complained that new play parks in West Swindon do not cater for a wide enough age range. In April old play areas in Westlea, Nine Elms and Grange Park were relaunched with funding from the government’s £1.5million Play Builder allocation to Swindon. But Donna thinks more thought could have been given to the design. “I’m glad the play areas have been rebuilt but pre-school children and toddlers do not have enough equipment available to them. Parents with young children are frustrated that they can’t use the play features which are mainly for school age children. However a spokeswoman for Swindon Council said the play areas were designed after an extensive consultation exercise last Autumn and the equipment was chosen to make the play areas exciting for all ages. Left, Donna Starr, left, with her friend Michelle Eatwell and their children

• Refurbishment of two more Play Builder play areas in West Swindon - on Shaw Ridge and Shelfinch, Toothill - should be complete and ready for use by the end of July.

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1 - 21 August 10.indd 14

16/07/2010 15:02

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Swindon Town FC to back Hop Skip and Jump centre this season

Hop, Skip and Jump, a charity which provides respite care for families with children with disabilities has been chosen by Swindon Town Football Club as its charity of the year. “The backing that, following a presentation by The organisation has secured the trustees at Lydiard Millicent land with planning permission from of the football Primary School, pupils voted Swindon Council to site a special- club over the unanimously to make Hop Skip and ist support centre at Lydiard Park coming months Jump their charity of the year. “The but has to raise a massive £900,000 will be so important to take the children were most affected by the to build it. thought that there are children who Click Mitchell, Hop, Skip and fundraising tarcan only watch others play, but that Jump trustee, said, “Swindon get closer to the at Hop Skip and Jump everyone Town’s commitment is wonderful point when we can play.” news and we are so grateful to all can start buildShe put forward a suggestion to the people of Swindon who have ing.” The centre will readers. “If every household that been fundraising like mad with all receives The Link had a fund for sorts of things from sponsored slims provide an excellent facility for swearing or eating too much pasta, to fancy dress competitions. and raised £30, we’d get there.” “We have also had two gentlemen young people The charity hopes the building of and a dog canoeing from Cricklade with disabilities, to the Thames Barrier, two runners including after- Viewing the plans for Lydiard Park, coun Gary Perkins with the wooden building with several eco-friendly features close to the in the Reading marathon and a school and Satur- parents Doug Morris and Tricia Evans Click is hoping the Swindon Lydiard Park visitor centre can start lady cycling from John O’Groats day clubs, and holiday care. There to Lands End. As a result we have are similar centres in Cheltenham Town commitment will engage in mid-autumn. To offer fundraising help call over £30,000 in the bank, which is and Bristol which draw families other organisations like schools and community groups. She said Click Mitchell on 01453 836390. from as far away as Manchester. marvellous.

Funds to support families with children who have extra needs

Are you the parent or carer of a disabled child or young person aged up to 18 years (19 years if they remain in full-time, statutory education) in Swindon? Or a professional working with a disabled child/young person? asks Martha Stygall of the Swindon Aiming High Team. Are there activities that your child/young person would like to take part in but cannot because they need additional support? The Aiming High for Disabled Children Inclusion Fund may be able to help. Aiming High is the government’s transformation programme for disabled children and young people’s services in England to ensure they have the support they need to live ordinary family lives. The Swindon Inclusion Fund is part of Aiming High for Disabled Children, developed in partnership by Swindon Council and NHS

Swindon as a result of discussion with Swindon parents and carers who say that disabled children and young people are not able to take full advantage of short break activities because of barriers caused by their disability. However funding is due to end on 31 March 2011 so applications need to be submitted over the next few months. For details call the Aiming High Team on 464080, mail: aiminghigh@swindon.gov.uk or write to The Aiming High Team, Salt Way Centre, Pearl Road, Middleleaze, Swindon SN5 5TD.

Traditional Summer Fete Sunday 1 August, 11am - 3.30pm

in support of the Hop, Skip & Jump Swindon appeal Salt Way Centre, Pearl Road, Middleleaze Face painting, bouncy castle, Irish dancing, local bands, frisbee golf, traditional stands and stalls - splat the rat, stocks, bric-a-brac - barbecue, Pimm’s tent, cake stall, police and fire services, amazing raffle prizes Admission: £1 per adult, 50p children, under 5s free. Entry includes free raffle ticket. Details from Rebecca Taylor - RMTaylor@swindon.gov.uk

Swindon College

Aiming High grant comes to the rescue

When Westlea Primary School was awarded a £12,000 grant for further wheelchair friendly play equipment they were overjoyed - until the installation company said it would cost an extra £4,500. But tears turned to joy as Marla Carroll, head of Special Resource Provision for Physically Disabled Pupils, explained. “After receiving the good news that Aiming High were giving us £12,000, we soon came down to earth when the new quote arrived following a redesign after the original proposal. “I cheekily approached Sarah Moody of Aiming High Aiming High again and they with Marla Carroll said yes. Now we can fund the second phase of our playground project to provide a wheelchair swing and a system with a cradle swing and two bench swings. “We’re overwhelmed that Aiming High has been able to help so quickly. The wheelchair friendly roundabout which was installed with funds from the Rotary Club has made such a positive difference to playtimes for the physically disabled children and the swings will do the same.”

1 - 21 August 10.indd 15

Still time to apply for September 2010 start! There are lots of exciting courses on offer at Swindon College for this September and there are still spaces available! If you are a School Leaver, you will find all the course information for this year on the 14-19 Section of our website.

Visit www.swindon-college.ac.uk or call 0800 S w i n d o n

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15/07/2010 16:26

16 swindonlink.com • August 2010

Ten years of community building at Abbey Meads

Abbey Meads Community Primary School celebrated ten school years with a summer fete on 10 July followed by a street party on 16 July. Headteacher Bob Buckland, who has just completed his first year years Bob would like to see the school go from strength to strength, and at the school following Marilyn Brown’s retirement last summer, said following its successful Ofsted report recently he has no doubt that Abbey “it’s a joy to come to work and I feel as though I have been here forever. Meads will be the school that all local parents want their children to attend. “The most important thing is the tremendous sense of community • See the big balloon launch photo from 1999 at www.swindonlink.com – everybody pulls together, there is a fantastic can-do approach. It is also wonderful to see children, staff and parents alike leading by example.” For the next ten Photo: Juliet Platt

Fair wind for Fairtrade pioneers at Bridlewood

Pupils and staff at Bridlewood Primary School in Redhouse are proud to be one of the first schools in Swindon to be working towards achieving Fairtrade status. Fairtrade coordinator Kerrie Stone said, “we a credit to the pupils and staff who are comhave set up a Fairtrade committee composed of mitted to making it happen and I wish them a representative from each class and including all the best.” Year 5 pupil and Fairtrade committee member our catering manager, and we have produced a list of actions which is to be part of the school Aimee Davenport-Banks said, “it takes a year to get Fairtrade status. We’ve been learning how development plan.” The school is also making sure it sources crops are grown and how people can be paid Fairtrade tea, coffee, cookery and sports prod- a good price for them.” Jordan Eagle, also Year 5, said “we all think ucts and the first Fairtrade event was the cake we should be helping people who grow food stall at the fete in June. North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson who at- in other countries.” Needless to say the Fairtrade stall sold out tended to sample cupcakes made from Fairtrade products, said, “it’s fantastic that Bridlewood of cakes very quickly. could be the town’s first Fairtrade school. It’s Right, Justin, with Kerrie Stone and Year 5 pupils

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1 - 21 August 10.indd 16

15/07/2010 16:28

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Millbrook Fairtrade cafe raises cash for polio eradication

After a talk by members of Rotary Club Swindon Old Town last November about the campaign to eradicate polio worldwide, youngsters at Freshbrook’s Millbrook Primary School raised £150 by organising a cafe selling Fairtrade sourced products on two days in June.

“We decided to take a deeper approach to ‘Africa’ by looking at the speciﬁc issues affecting farmers who grow our food,” said deputy headteacher Helen Bartley. “The children loved linking what they had learnt about the Rotary effort to eradicate polio by doing something practical to help the people get a fair price for growing tea, coffee and cocoa through the Fairtrade scheme.” Maame Achemompong said, “we

saw a ﬁlm about Tabitha in India who had to carry water from a well to her house, but she couldn’t drink it because it had polio in it.” Ethan Ward described how pupils took on different tasks to run the cafe. “Some of us cooked the cakes, others served and others were cashiers. It was really good to raise so much money for farmers and to help stop polio.” Anne Gomes said she had learnt a lot. “We were able to tell parents

and friends who came to the cafe about trying to stop polio across the world and also how we must try to help people who grow food get money for their families.” David Pratt of the Rotary Club said he was delighted how Millbrook had taken the anti-polio campaign to its heart. “This kind of support is taking place across the planet; it really is a worldwide community effort to get rid of this most terrible of diseases.”

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Millbrook’s Fairtrade cafe organisers hand over a box of coins for the Rotary worldwide campaign to David Pratt of Rotary Club Swindon Old Town

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15/07/2010 16:29

18 swindonlink.com • August 2010

Pre-school adopts flexi-care approach

Alpha Pre-School in Freshbrook Community Centre will again be running provision for two year old children, following a successful pilot last term. Six of the older children will be have childcare between 8.45am and Tracy Brown, who works at the pre-school, explained, “this is a pilot going to Millbrook Primary School 3pm, including lunchtime, and still by Sure Start to see if provision for in September, after visiting recep- qualify for their free sessions. Tracy added, “the pre-school has two year olds is needed within the tion last term, with teachers also area. We had 12 children last term, popping into the pre-school to make gone from strength to strength in a and will have spaces available the transition as smooth as possible. short time; we create a welcoming from September. It went brilliantly, This means there are spaces avail- fun, learning environment for children, parents and carers.” though it’s been a learning curve as able for 3 to 5 year olds. For details of available spaces, or The playgroup is introducing the children are young and we had to change our practice to ensure we’re an innovative flexi-time system to to arrange a visit, call the pre-school working in the right way with them. help working families. Parents can on 07563 764528. But all the children settled well, Avast there, there’s a lot of fun on offer at Freshbrook Playgroup. the parents are happy and the staff Pirate day at Alpha Pre-school in July enjoying working with them - so we’re carrying on.”

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Millbrook pre-school expanding to ten sessions

Caterpillars Pre-school at Millbrook Primary School in Freshbrook has recently been validated by Swindon Council’s Early Years Consultant and is already regarded as good in all areas of leadership and management and has been identified as moving towards outstanding.

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.

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

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Caterpillars, happy and successful play provision

Due to this success the group will open for both morning and afternoon sessions from September. Supervisor Michelle Larkin, said, “we’re delighted that the local authority regards us so highly. We expected ‘developing,’ but to be seen

as ‘potentially outstanding’ makes us very proud. It gives us a very clear target to work to.” For details and to register children for a place, call into the school office to pick up an information pack or call 872800.

15/07/2010 16:31

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Breast is best for mum and baby in short and longer term

There were strawberries and cream to mark National Breast Feeding Awareness Week in late June for members of the Saltway Children’s Centre Breastmates group - one of a network of informal drop-in groups, jointly run by mothers, breastfeeding counsellors, midwives and health visitors across Swindon.

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Breastmate members at the Salt Way Children’s Centre NHS Swindon has been tasked with increasing the number of mums who breastfeed babies for an extended period and is working with support groups to promote the health benefits of breastfeeding and increasing the social acceptance of feeding in public. Helen Smith, Breastfeeding Lead at NHS Swindon, said “breastfeeding comes naturally for some women but for others it doesn’t Breastmates aims to support all of these women.” Kat Sandell, mum of 11 month old Aidan, has attended Saltway Breastmates since it began in September 2009. “I very much recommend breastfeeding to every new mum. It’s completely natural, gives a lot more freedom to go out with your baby and stay out longer, without having to sterilise bottles. Breastmilk is a free option when money’s tight.” Peer supporter Anita Higham said, “breastfeeding can be more time-consuming than bottle feeding, but sitting feeding for a couple of hours at a time is normal, and it’s mother nature’s way of getting mums to stop and focus completely on their baby.” Helen Smith added that breast-

milk has huge health benefits over the long term. “Not only does breastfeeding help mother and baby to bond, it protects babies from infections and lowers the risk of getting breast and ovarian cancer in adult life. It also uses up about 500 calories a day, making it easier for mums to lose their pregnancy weight. “Some 76 percent of new mums attempt to breastfeed within 48 hours of giving birth, but this figure drops to about 45 percent when the baby is 6 to 8 weeks old. Here in Swindon we would like to boost that figure to nearly 50 percent. If women receive support they are more likely to breastfeed for longer, increasing the health benefits to themselves and their babies.” Breastmate Groups meet at: West Swindon Children’s Centre, Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook: Mondays 10am to 12noon, except bank holidays Saltway Children’s Centre, Pearl Road, Middleleaze: Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.30pm Abbey Meads Primary School: Mondays 12.30pm to 2.30pm, except school holidays. Turn up and join in or speak to your health visitor about a group.

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 & garden Grant places available For information call: 01793 851495

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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

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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 Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

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A great place to play, learn and make new friends at Leapfrog in Swindon St Andrews Ridge • Open 7:30am - 6pm, Monday to Friday • CCTV and secure access • ‘Busy Babies’ area • Well equipped play rooms • Sensory room • Extra curricular activities • Fresh home cooked food

10% off September fees if you book and start before 31st August 2010!* For more information call Niki on 01793 726 919 Leapfrog Day Nursery, Highdown Way, St Andrew’s Ridge, Swindon SN25 4FD www.leapfrogdaynurseries.co.uk

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15/07/2010 10:26

20 swindonlink.com • August 2010

Masquerade ball to enable precious memories

Swindon Stillborn and Neonatal Death Support (SANDS) is holding a masquerade ball on 28 August to raise money for vital work supporting parents who have been devastated by the loss of a baby, either during pregnancy or shortly after birth. SANDS chairperson Cathy Milburn helped start the Swindon group in July 2008 after moving to the town from Torquay where she and her partner received support from the charity following the stillbirth of their baby boy Adam Lee in January 2007. “When a baby dies your whole world stops,” said Cathy. “One of the most helpful things when you have lost a baby is to be able to talk in the world is leaving the hospital to someone who has been there, as empty-handed, which is why we you can feel so alone. It really does wanted to provide the memory take a long time to build yourself boxes, to help focus families’ minds back up; you never get over the loss, on creating memories in the short you just ﬁnd a way of living with it.” time they have, and to leave the The charity operates a support hospital holding something.” The group is always looking for line, a website, sends out newsletters and holds monthly meetings. volunteers to knit the tiny baby They also provide Great Western blankets, especially for babies Hospital maternity unit with Pre- delivered between 14 to 20 weeks. For tickets at £40 to the mascious Memory Boxes containing a blanket, a pair of teddy bears and querade ball on 28 August at Ala camera for parents to remember exandra House Conference Centre in Wroughton, call 238788 or mail: their baby. “In our case the midwives were cathymilburn@swindonsands.org To contact the SANDS support brilliant and encouraged us to hold Adam and spend time with him,” line, call 238788. www.swindonsands.org said Cathy. “But the worst feeling

Children in safe hands at Saltway

Saltway Children’s Centre in Middleleaze held a Safety Fun day to mark National Child Safety Week 21 to 27 June.

Learning to be safe in dangerous places, Linda Dolan and children from Acorns Pre-school which meets at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw

Staff at the centre were pleased with the reception of the event, with over 100 children and their families attending. Children were able to operate a ﬁre-engine’s hose and sit in a police car, as well as take part in road safety activities. A Mothercare representative gave advice on car seat safety, and there were food and bike safety give-aways. “It was nice to do this in a fun way with lots of practical activities

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rather than just handing out information,” said centre manager Kay Kane. “The children knew about the importance of ﬁre engines and understood what red, amber and green mean.” Open day Saturday 8 August, 10.30am to 1.30pm Saltway Children’s Centre will be open to give families an opportunity to find out more about the centre and offer more fun activities. Call 465364 for details.

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Dance and music from a line up of international stars and a wealth of local talent Stalls selling everything from jewellery, clothes, unique handbags, sequined shoes to musical instruments and lots of food. Turban and sari tieing workshops and demonstrations, bridal wear, mehndi and rangoli art. Health zone offering a variety of alternative therapies and massage and information on how to live a natural and healthier lifestyle.

Saturday 14th August Town Gardens, Swindon A free celebration of life and being one community whatever your sexuality from 1pm to 6pm Parade, live music, healthy body healthy mind zone, hate crime workshops, funfair www.swindonpride.com

Cream teas in aid of Angel’s Orphanage, Nepal Saturday 31 July, 2.30pm - 5pm Brandy Bush, Brookfield, Highworth Croquet, boules, tombola, plant stall, Tickets £4. Book (for catering numbers) on 762645

For details and information about putting on a stall, mail Jo Sharp, Swindon Pride Chair Person, info@swindonpride.com

Artist’s unique work on show in West library

The beautiful and fascinating artworks by Haydon Wick designer Gloria Armstrong will be on display at West Swindon Library from Tuesday 17 August to Friday 24 September, during library opening hours. Gloria’s work is unique and al- ies – receptacles to hold sacred most unknown. The boxes, bags objects and ecclesiastical relics, and bowls are inspired by reliquar- particularly from the Byzantine era. But she gives each exquisitely created item a 21st Century twist, full of wit and whimsical symbolism. “I don’t have a clue how each one will turn out,” said Gloria. “But I do love seeing the smiles on people’s faces as they see new elements of each piece. It takes a bit of time to discover everything.” Gloria’s exhibition in West Swindon follows one in Bristol at the invitation of the Royal West of England Academy.

21-52 August 10.indd 21

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lieries, Armstrong began working Gooch who had wanted Joseph Armwith these new fangled machines. strong to replace him at Swindon and Extraordinarily, compared with mod- directly challenged the chairman of ern times, he started driving them the GWR Board, when he found out whilst still at school. His knowledge that he had not put Armstrong on the of their construction and how best to short list; Gooch won. Shortly afteroperate them marked him out early wards the board appointed Gooch to the position of chairas a great railway man, and Gooch is pioneer. credited for saving By the age of 38 the company from Joseph Armstrong bankruptcy. was something of Joseph Arma legend in his own strong was aplifetime. He was pointed locomotive not a GWR man superintendent. He in the sense of the brought his family to Swindon meaning Swindon to a house but nonetheless that the GWR built he became a GWR for him. He immegreat. Fortunately diately began to for the company make the works a he had been ‘acquired’ when the Photo: STEAM Museum of the GWR safer place, introducing ventilation, Birmingham Chester Railway was taken over. His creden- lighting and safer working practices. tials and pedigree were impeccable Radically he opened a workshop for having been acquainted with early women in 1874. Workers knew him for his exrailway pioneers. George Stephenson and Tim ceptional kindness and his caring Hackworth influenced the boy into paternalism. Joseph Armstrong was a great becoming an engineer, Hackworth spent time teaching the teenage railway engineer, there is no doubt Armstrong how to drive locomotives about that, but he was also a man and by the age of twenty he was a of Christian zeal. A Methodist lay preacher, Armlocomotive driver on the Liverpool strong held strong beliefs in the Manchester Railway. George Gray brought Armstrong work ethic, financial prudence, social to the Hull & Selby Railway and welfare and public service. He was promoted him into the position of influential in ensuring provision for foreman of the running sheds at worship and Swindon had more Hull where he learned from Gray all churches of all denominations. It was there was to learn about advanced even suggested that Swindon had locomotive design and construction. the most religious minded populace When Gray left the Hull and Selby of all industrial towns in England. Railway for the London and Brighton, 28 and 29 August – Workers he took Armstrong south with him. Weekend. Railway workers and their He was made foreman, working with families from all over the country another railway ‘great’ David Joy will gather at STEAM Museum to But Gray did not stay long at celebrate the history of the GWR. Brighton and when he left ArmSwindon to become the strong soon followed him and was appointed to a superintendent posi- centrepiece of world heritage? tion at Chester, where he was when An application to make the 116 the GWR absorbed Birmingham mile stretch of railway line between Chester Railway Company in 1854. London and Bristol has been shortDaniel Gooch knew and trusted listed to become a UNESCO World Armstrong and gave him a free hand Heritage Site in recognition of the at the Wolverhampton railway works. historical significance of the Great Here Armstrong was able to get on Western Railway. Steve Wakefield welcomed the with constructing locomotives and he designed and built his famous bid to the Department of Culture, 2-2-2 express loco. A powerful Media and Sport.“This is great news. locomotive, it was ahead of its time Railways are without a shadow of and set the trend for GWR design doubt one of this country’s greatest contributions to the modern world, for the next decade. In 1864 Gooch resigned from the and the GWR was key to this. “Swindon’s contribution was putGWR and at the same time Gibson, who was the Carriage and Wagon ting the great into the GWR. I hope Superintendent also retired. It was the application goes forward.”

15/07/2010 13:00

Swindon Wide

‘Oliver’ ends 10th year celebration

Youngsters at Peatmoor Primary School put on a spectacular end of term show to mark the tenth full year since the school opened. Dressed as street urchins and pickpockets the cast told Charles Dickens’ famous story in song and dance with great enthusiasm. Headteacher Andrew Henstridge congratulated the cast for performing a memorable show, and also producers Jude Scutt and Bethan Fry for their hard work with musical director Suzanne Bullimore. Peatmoor urchins pleading for more in the workhouse

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Summer of imagination at a library

The Space Hop is this year’s Summer Reading Challenge™ now taking place at libraries across Swindon. It’s really simple to do and you just don’t know where it will take you. All young readers have to do is read six books during the summer until 11 September. There’s a fold-out poster and a set of incentives to collect on the voyage and there is a certificate and medal for those who successfully complete the challenge. There will be a range of free events in the libraries across the town including a chance to see real moon rocks at West Swindon Library on 29 July, 10.30am and North Swindon Library at 2pm. In August children can put their arty side to the test with some lunar craft sessions - ask at your local library for details. Librarians and volunteers will be on hand to act as astral guides, and an interactive Space Hop website at www.summerreadingchallenge. org.uk links children with top authors and illustrators whilst giving them room to talk about their favourite An Apollo astronaut collecting moonrock for the visit to West and North books and share reading ideas. Research shows how central Swindon libraries on 29 July reading for pleasure is for children’s England enjoy reading less than life chances.Yet recent international their international peers and also comparisons show that children in spend less time reading for fun.

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The good news is that the Summer Reading Challenge™ will help improve their reading range, confidence and enjoyment. Don’t miss out on the advantage available to your child. Give him or her a head start when they return to school by signing up at a library now. Children’s author Neil Griffiths launching the summer reading challenge at North Swindon libraries on 24 July

21-52 August 10.indd 23

16/07/2010 11:58

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Saturday 7th, 7.30pm, gates 6.30pm 80s Night at the Bowl. Dance the night away to your favourite songs. Advance tickets: £13, concessions £10, family £35 from Swindon Information Centre or Arts Centre; on the door: £15, concessions £12, family £37. Swindon Bowl Friday 13th, 7.30pm Kentwood in Concert. An evening of music for Wyvern Theatre Foundation. £6.50. Wyvern

Theatre

Friday 6th, 6.30pm

Musical

Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th.Thur - Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm; Sun 1pm & 5pm

The Wizard of Oz presented by the Summer Youth Project. The Wyvern becomes the mystical Emerald City complete with munchkins, Dorothy and her friends as 250 young people perform and work behind the scenes to put on an amazing stage show with all the classic songs. £10 - £12. Wyvern

Children & Family

The Secret Garden. Entertaining open-air family theatre from Heartbreak Productions. Bring a rug and a picnic. £12; junior £7; family £33; to book call 614837. Lydiard House Friday 27th & Saturday 28th, 7.30pm A Midsummer Night’s Dream presented by Shakespeare’s Globe. Enjoy Shakespeare’s greatest comedy performed on an Elizabethan-inspired stage on the lawn at Lydiard Park, by a small troupe of travelling players. Bring a rug and a picnic. £15; junior £10; to book call 614837. Lydiard House

Exhibitions

Throughout August, Tuesday to Sunday 11 to 5pm and Bank Holiday Monday A Victorian Childhood. Exhibition for all the family about childhood in the Victorian era. Normal admission charges, children must accompanied by an adult. Lydiard House Tuesday 3rd to Tuesday 31st, Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm; Saturdays 9am to 5pm Work by Nicola and Tina King. Nicola paints large and colourful abstracts in acrylic and Tina makes decorated masks. Free. Framework Art & Craft Friday 6th to Saturday 14th, 10am to 5pm (open Monday to Saturday) The 38th Annual Exhibition of Wiltshire Artists. 50 exhibiting artists in a wide range of styles, media and subject matter. All works for sale. St. Peter’s Church, High Street, Marlborough From Tuesday 17th, during library open times Artwork by Gloria Armstrong. See page 21. West Swindon Library

21-52 August 10.indd 24

Throughout August, 10am to 5pm Relic Trail. Take on five challenges, to find objects, solve puzzles and crack codes. Suit from 6 year old to teenagers. Every participant gets a free certificate. Normal admission charges. STEAM Tuesday 3rd, 12noon to 3pm Plant a Pot. Craft session for children. Decorate a flower pot and plant it up with seeds from the walled garden. Drop in activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £3 per child. Lydiard Park Saturdays 14th & 28th, 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 Tuesday 24th to Tuesday 31st Miniature Railway. Enjoy the thrill of jumping aboard the ride-on miniature railway. Normal admission charges. STEAM

Comedy

Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th, 7.30pm; & Sat 7th 2.30pm Hi-de-Hi. An exciting new production based on the classic TV show starring Damian Williams and Abigail Finley. £16 - £18. Wyvern

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35 BSS House, Cheney Manor. Tel: 513069 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 West Swindon Library Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481

Confirm date, time & price with venue

16/07/2010 12:03

On in August

Summer fun for kids

Is this another year for a staycation? You don’t have to go very far to have a ton of fun in the Swindon area.

At Farmer Gow’s Activity Farm, just off the A420, there are baby lambs and kids to feed, cute little piglets to see, trailer rides and exciting play areas. See the free entry voucher right. At Studley Grange Craft Village & Butterfly World, there are 30 species of butterfly and over 200 varieties of tropical plants indoors and new arrivals, two meerkats and a group of otters, in an animal paddock. www.studleygrange.co.uk

Open Daily 10am – 5pm 10am–5pm

VOU

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Lydiard Park is offering Forest Skills Days on Wednesday 11, 18 and 25 August, 10am to 4pm and will definitely be a great way to get away from the play station and TV. The days for 8 to 13 year olds run by Woodland Learning will give children the chance to gain skills such as making mini rafts to race on the stream, drawing secret maps and finding buried treasure, and learning to use tools safely before carving wood items. Den building and preparing food and cooking it on a wood fire will be an essential part of each day. Loads of fun is guaranteed. Places at £25 must be booked in advance. Call Lydiard Park on 770401 or mail: lydiardpark@swindon.gov. uk for details and a booking form.

Aug

Between 14 and 20 August go on a bear hunt, helping the intrepid explorer, above, find the bear roaming the farm. From 21 August to 5 September the blooming sunflowers on the farm will be the centre of attention. Visit the fields and make your own.

Roves Farm is also running a photographic competition for your favourite photo taken during a visit between 24 July and 5 September for the chance to win a family pass for Christmas activities. www.rovesfarm.co.uk

SL,

At Roves Farm, the Very Hungry Caterpillar, from July 24 to August 6, will explore the lifecycle of a butterfly in a fun way - on a tractor ride. Robin Hood and his Merry Men will be roaming between 7 and 13 August. Follow the trail of clues through and around the woods on a trailer pulled by a tractor.

Birthdays start at £5.75 per head!

Fernham Road, Tel: 01793 780 555 Longcot, SN7 7PR enquiries@farmergows.co.uk

Butterfly World & Craft Village

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21-52 August 10.indd 25

At Lower Shaw Farm an activity day on 4 August includes meeting the animals, arts and crafts in the big barn and cooking over a fire. Book in advance. A residential week of family creativity and relaxation from 15 to 22 August will have arts and craft, games, outings, yoga classes, juggling, baking and jam-making, with evenings around the campfire. Circus Skills from 27 to 30 August will include juggling, pole spinning, human pyramids, diabolo, devil stick, plate spinning, clowning and new this year is aerial work, including trapeze. All levels of ability welcome. www.lowershawfarm.co.uk

A Great Family Day Out

Enjoy a truly magical experience as you walk amonst hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies flying around a tropical paradise of plants and fish filled pools. Then visit our otters, goats, meerkats, guinea pigs and loads more farmyard favourites in our outdoor Animal Paddock.

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Open Daily: Summer 10am-6pm; Winter 9am-Dusk Tel: 01793 852400 • E-mail: info@studleygrange.co.uk Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN4 9QT

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15/07/2010 16:34

Swindon Wide

Enormous crowd party at Big Arts Day

Glorious weather encouraged thousands to turn out to the Big Arts Day at Lydiard Park to enjoy a wide range of artistic activity with local artistes as well as wandering performers brought in from outside the town. The Mayor of Swindon Rex Hook Street entrance to Barnett, who passed through the West Swindon Centre crowds with a collection bucket in whilst cars backed up in aid of his chosen charities, said, The Prinnels. Many more “this is brilliant; thousands of people walked or cycled. At its enjoying themselves in the sun. It’s peak it’s thought there were 15,000 people in the park a runaway success.” By mid-afternoon a huge traffic with an estimated 20,000 jam saw cars stretch from the park’s enjoying the day in total. S a m B a k e r brought her four children from Ramleaze. She said, Lydiard allows space for loud bands a mini-Glastonbury.” Coun Keith Williams, chair of the “it’s colourful, lots of and street dance, painting and potactivity and lots to do tery workshops, as well as quieter Lydiard Park management board activities like story telling. There’s a said, “the £25,000 budget was well and see. It’s great.” Matt Holland, di- great atmosphere; somebody even spent, the event was good value rector of the Swindon said to me they thought it was like for money.” Festival of Literature, Above, storytelling in the woods. Below, Stagecoach performing arts school said the park lent itself to a variety of activity. “It’s wonderful to see so many Swindon people turn up to enjoy an event with arts in the title. Top, the Mayor and Mayoress amongst the crowds. Left, Masters of Dance wow onlookers with dynamic hip hop

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The Chief Whip of the Bangladesh Parliament Abdus Shahid called into the Taj Mahal restaurant on 9 July to enjoy lunch with owner Arju Miah and the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Rex and Sandra Barnett who presented him with a cut glass memento etched with the Borough of Swindon logo.

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Mr Shahid has been visiting people with origins in Bangladesh who are important to supporting the economy of his country. Mr Miah said he was delighted that he chose to visit the Taj Mahal. “We were very honoured to entertain Mr Shahid who is a very important person in the Bangladesh government.” Above, Taj Mahal chef Sham Islam presents Mr Shahid and the mayor with a dish only prepared for VIPs, a row fish native to Bangladesh, with Arju Miah, centre, Mohammed Ali Taluker, president of the Swindon & Wiltshire branch of the Bangladesh Awamileague political party, left and guest Mushtak Ahmed

16/07/2010 12:27

Swindon Wide

Wi-Fi network heads for town centre connections Learn

The massive demand for the iPhone 4 and the iPad and similarly powerful handheld wireless devices over the next few months proves that Swindonâ€™s wi-fi system is happening at the right time according to Ricki Hunt, the Swindon businessman who came up with the idea and persuaded Swindon Council to see the possibilities of investing in the UKâ€™s first town wide wifi network. Speaking to the media for the did not have the right street furfirst time since the whole project niture to mount aerials. You canâ€™t became embroiled in controversy just stick in a new lampost, so in the months leading up to the weâ€™ve had to find solutions which general election, Ricki told The required negotiations and consulLink that the delay has been costly tations with owners and users of but he believes Swindon people nearby buildings. â€œWeâ€™ve largely overcome the will soon be able to access the technical problems and from the system and discover its benefits. The Digital City consortium of end of July users will be offered Rickiâ€™s company Signal, the coun- the 24/7 service for ÂŁ5.99 a month cil and aQovia, was launched in and the advanced package which Highworth with much fanfare in includes a home router and mobile December. There are now 2,500 phone access for ÂŁ9.99 a month.â€? Whilst he was battling through registered users in the town where there are around 3,000 homes. technical issues and waiting for The system allows people free ac- the political problems to be resolved, Ricki said he had been cess for two hours daily. After the Digital City project was announced, criticism of the councilâ€™s cabinet decision to take a 35 per cent share in the project meant it had to be reviewed by various internal scrutiny committees and it was referred to the Audit Commission to consider whether correct proce- Launching the Signal WiFi project in December 2009, dures had been Caroline Spellman MP, then shadow minister for followed. The deci- communities and local government, with Swindon sions were ratified Council leader Rod Bluh, centre, and Ricki Hunt and Ricki says the Digital City dream will soon take taken aback by the interest in the wi-fi proposal, with enquiries from off. â€œItâ€™s taken longer than I expect- local authorities in the UK and ed for two main reasons which worldwide. And as the system was has had a knock on effect on installed in Highworth he has been purchasing equipment which has able to take visitors to the town to increased project costs,â€? he said. log on via their phones and lapâ€œItâ€™s taken longer to draw down tops. â€œThe number of calls weâ€™ve the borough councilâ€™s investment, had is phenomenal. In early July but there were processes to go I took a councillor from Australia through and the project has now to try out the system and he was been cleared for take off. I was amazed how his equipment conalso optimistic about how long it nected instantly,â€? said Ricki. â€œItâ€™s would take to fully deploy the net- a fabulous set up which Iâ€™m confident is putting Swindon on the work in Highworth. â€œWe wanted to ensure as com- technological map.â€? â€œWe will start installing wi-fi aeriplete coverage as possible but found blackspots where the signal als to cover the town centre in the was not consistent enough and next few weeks which means people working there and in town for shopping or leisure will be able to log on and discover how easy and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust needs fast it is to use. More and more the views of people in Swindon people will start demanding the and Wiltshire to help raise Na- system where they live.â€? tional Lottery funding for a three However Ricki admitted his year project on local food. original plan to rapidly cover the Fill in the survey on growing whole town with a wi-fi mesh has food and attitudes to buying it been modified and the roll out will from local suppliers at www.sur- be progressed at a slower pace. veymonkey.com/s/Localfood He wants the wi-fi initiative to drive the development of a dedicated

Food views wanted

21-52 August 10.indd 27

technology park. â€œWith Intel and Motorola based in Swindon and also the governmentâ€™s Technology Strategy Board, we need to have a place where cutting edge businesses explore new ways of working and how to drive greater efficiencies in businesses. â€œI really want Swindon to show how confident it is and for people elsewhere to notice how our town is trying to do something different.

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Swindon Wide

the bigger picture Greendown School has been taking in the bigger picture for many years with its links to Moriteng Wa-Thuto secondary school in South Africa and its continued support for the United Nations Millennium goal to ensure every child gets some form of education by 2015. In 2006 they took their message right into Prime Minister Tony Blair’s House of Commons office. In July they invited new South Swindon MP Robert Buckland to hear their appeal to world leaders not to give up on the 72 million children worldwide who don’t attend school, 50 per cent of whom live in Africa. Schools across Britain focussed on the World Cup to draw attention to the One Goal campaign in support of the G8 leaders Millennium commitment. Every pupil at Greendown was asked to decorate a segment of a paper scarf which was taped together for the MP to present to David Cameron. Alex Iles said, “without education children will be trapped in poverty for their whole lives.” Megan Loveridge said she wanted the MP to tell David Cameron that time is running out. “There is only five years to the deadline. The messages on the scarf say that every Link Ad May2010.pdf 1 child must have the chance to go

21-52 August 10.indd 28

Robert Buckland wrapped in Greendown’s give every child an education scarf with teacher Cristina Bennett, front. Right, some of the pupils who met Tony Blair in 2006

to school; we must give them hope.” Robert Buckland thanked the One World group for inviting him to hear their appeal because he supports the coalition government’s continued commitment to providing 0.7 per cent of GDP to development goals. “I know money is tight but allocating money to young people in other countries is important in the long term. If we don’t make the 18/05/2010 12:50 investment now it will be people

of your age and younger who will be faced with the same problems in the future.” He said he would try to arrange a visit to meet David Cameron for the new generation of Greendown One World supporters.

15/07/2010 16:47

Swindon Wide

Children’s book to help Gambia project

A new book Fatou, fetch the water by Swindon children’s author Neil Griffiths hopes to keep parents and young readers focussed on traditions and culture of African countries in the months following the World Cup. Former Westlea Primary School headteacher Neil, who now runs his education company Corner to Learn, has long supported a pre-school and teacher training in Gambia, and a percentage from every sale will go towards the charity he set up several years ago. Based on his experiences visiting The Gambia, the book follows the footsteps of forgetful Fatou as she fetches a fresh supply of water for a family feast. But will she return from her journey through the village with just water, or with much more than she expected? This charming tale of the joys of both giving and receiving also includes a fun facts section about the culture and traditions of the smallest country in Africa and links to free downloadable material based on the book. Fatou, fetch the water is illustrated by Peggy Collins and costs £6.99 from Red Robin Books online - www.redrobinbooks.com For information about Neil’s work in The Gambia see: www.cornertolearn.co.uk/project-gambia

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Thanks to Neil we have two copies to give away. Send your answer to the question, which country is the book set in? to the address on page 4 by 15 August or mail: publisher@swindonlink.com

Put some brightness into Swindon

Swindon Link’s campaign to brighten up the town virtually has been attracting attention from graphic artists, but we’re looking for more people to participate. We picked Alexander House on Fleming Way to decorate using Photoshop (or another programme) because the demolition of the BHS store revealed the perfect and unseen canvas for ideas. This view of the building will shortly disAbove, Mark O’Brian has just moved into the David appear as the shop on Murray John tower and was wondering what has Bridge Street is rebuilt. happened to the town’s twinning link with Disney The online gallery at Send us back a digital picture of www.swindonlink.com is now disyour work. You could even post it to playing contributions. The ‘blank canvas image’ can be us for scanning and uploading to downloaded from the site. If you the site gallery. And if you don’t have a computer don’t have an image manipulation programme there is a line-art and want to take part, call 608840 version of the building to print and and we’ll send you a blank print to work on and return. decorate in any medium

Winners of competitions in the July Link

Speedway VIP tickets Anita Swatton, Toothill

Kiddiwalks in Wiltshire Simon Clarke, Blunsdon; Jack Overson, Abbey Meads

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21-52 August 10.indd 29

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16/07/2010 13:16

swindonlink.com • August 2010

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Ivor and Anne, with some of Ivor’s saviours, front Nikki Baker, Adam Girling. Back from left Laura Clark, Carol Afﬂeck, Clive Seabrook, Rob Afﬂeck

In April 2008 we reported how he had a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) and received poolside CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation). Later Ivor was found to have a blocked artery and two others working at 10 per cent capacity. He had a triple heart by-pass operation and doctors told him only his fitness regime of swimming up to 480 lengths a week helped him pull through. After a cardio rehab course Ivor was back in the pool but almost two years to the day in December 2009 he suffered another SCA, this time at the same time as a group of Link staff were doing a lifesaving course in the pool. Several had helped him on the first occasion and using the on-site defibrillator they jolted his heart back into action. On both occasions paramedics arrived shortly afterwards to stabilise Ivor before he was admitted to Great Western Hospital. At the end of June Ivor and his wife Anne thanked his saviours who are now closely monitoring his return to fitness in the pool. He has been fitted with an internal implantable cardioverter defi-

brillator which gives out measured shocks to re-establish regular heart beats. He is now allowed to swim up to 30 minutes per session. “A sudden cardiac arrest can happen without warning and with no pain to anyone young or old,” said Ivor. “Annually in the UK there are nearly 100,000 fatal SCAs that take place outside of hospitals, so I know just how extremely lucky I have been. “The staff at the Link Centre were amazing both times, if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be here today. I can’t thank them enough.” Anne Pope is now an advocate for on-site deﬁbrillators and trained staff in all settings. “The statistics are frightening, only 5 per cent of people who have SCAs survive. In Seattle they’ve achieved a 50 per cent survival rate due to community awareness and training.” Link Centre manager Carole Jamieson said, “I’m extremely proud of all the staff. Although they undergo training on a monthly basis you never really know how it will come together when it is a real situation. They performed their tasks with true professionalism.”

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21-52 August 10.indd 30

From the April 2008 Link

15/07/2010 11:43

swindonlink.com • August 2010

MS members get hot in Wales

Paul Driscoll

Supporters of the Swindon MS Therapy Centre entered four teams into the annual MS Challenge on 19 June to transport somebody with MS in a wheelchair across a seriously muddy course in the Brecon Beacons. Each team had to push and carry a MS sufferer in a wheelchair on a hilly 10k trek along dusty Forestry Commission tracks, through streams and a spooky disused railway tunnel. The teams hope to have raised £5,000 for the therapy centre.

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Some of the Slinn All Stars team who carried Sam Mulvey around the course in 4 hours and 23 minutes, from left, Mike Wakefield, Glyn Dolman, Richard Phillips, Les Slinn, Stuart Wakeley

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• Golf summer school for girls and boys aged 7 to 11 at the Best Western Blunsdon House Hotel. For details call Marc McCracken on 07876 684645

Male only bowls The bowls season is in full swing, but there’s still time to find out about Garrard’s, a small friendly male only club which plays at Westlecot in Old Town. They welcome experienced players or people new to the game. For details call Jed Jones on 612675 or mail: jedjedann@aol.com

Footballing cats under 12s players needed Brinkworth Cats under 12s, having achieved promotion last season, are looking for players to join their squad - especially a goalkeeper. Training takes place on Saturdays 9am to 10.3am at Ballards Ash, Wootton Bassett and Wednesdays 7.15pm to 8.15pm at Link Centre. Children should be starting Year 7 in September. For details call Rob on 07980 876176 or mail: dkrmcleod@sky.com

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21-52 August 10.indd 31

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15/07/2010 11:45

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Britain’s strongest man wows Greendown sports stars

Lawrence Shahlaei showed why he’s the strongest in Britain and eighth in the world at the Greendown School sports evening by hoisting director of sport Chris Dobbs above his head as if he was a feather.

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21-52 August 10.indd 32

Rebecca Brace checks out Lawrence Shahlaei’s biceps with Meghan Newcombe, Amber Harden and Josh Jefferys

The annual event on 8 July recognised the achievements by young people at the specialist sports’ school, which earlier this year was redesignated as a sports’ college for a further three years. Recovering from his surprise exercise, Mr Dobbs said, “it’s been a fantastic year for sport at Greendown, with individuals and teams achieving success at local through to national and European level.

“There is tremendous commitment to sport and leading healthy lifestyles which is translated into higher academic performance. “With several world records under his belt Lawrence showed how in only six years dedicated training he has reached the highest level in his sport.” Pupils received trophies in front of a crowd of supportive parents in the De Vere Hotel ballroom.

Women to take on Rift Valley ride

Nationwide IT specialists Jackie Deininger from Redhouse and Nicky Daley from Westlea are taking part in the 400km Women v Cancer Action for Charity cycle ride through Kenya’s Rift Valley. They’ll be amongst 78 other women from across the UK taking part in the challenge in October 2011. They’re paying for the travel and accommodation out of their own pockets and aim to jointly raise £3,600 to support breast, ovarian and cervical cancer charities before they go. Fundraising bag packs, auctions and raffles are being organised and the women currently have the backing of The Works Salon at Redhouse, Swindon Mercedes-Benz, 24hr Gym and Swindon Speedway. Businesses able to help should call Nicky on 07707 057732. Donations can be made at: www.justgiving.com/Nicky-Daley

There’s a lot to learn about lash extensions As the wedding and holiday season is upon us, some ladies may be considering adding a wow factor with lash extensions - but do not realise the difference between individual lash extensions and express lashes. Professional stylist Martine Rowland of North Swindon based Definitions has seen her business boom over the last three years, though she unfortunately has to help too many ladies who need help to sort out painful, damaged lashes that have been done elsewhere. She said, “the application of lashes is very skilled and meticulous work and should only be done by a qualified and insured lash stylist. “I do individual lash extensions, which are incredibly popular as there’s such an instant effect. The lashes look longer and thicker, and also natural as they’re carefully blended to the clients’ own lashes. This method causes no damage to natural lashes. “You need to know which treatment you’re getting. People think they can pay £10 or £70 for the same treatment, but they’re very different methods with differing results, costs and longevity. Express lashes can have a great impact but are cheaper, faster and only suitable for very short term wear. They may also require professional removal.” Martine suggests talking with your chosen technician before having lashes applied. “Ask to see before and after photos, and remember that any clumped lashes can become painful and itchy as the lashes grow, so make sure they are professionally removed to avoid damaging your natural lashes.” To contact Martine see the Definitions advert at the top of the page.

15/07/2010 16:49

swindonlink.com • August 2010

STFC spreads club fame to New England

Young soccer fans in the USA will be taking a keen interest in Swindon Town, following a summer camp led by community coaches from the club’s academy.

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freshman soccer squad. I’ve picked up new skills and I’m definitely fitter. It was a lot of fun working with professional coaches.” Jeremy wasn’t able to watch the England v USA draw as he was in the backwoods of Alaska. “We watched the later games with Martyn and wondered what had happened to England’s game. “The TV stations were right behind USA. I think the performance of the national team at the World Cup certainly raised the profile of the game in America.” Jeremy is hoping that further invitations to coach might

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• How did The Link get to New Brunswick? Juliana’s father Norman has known Link magazine publisher Roger Ogle since he spent a summer living near Swindon in 1969.

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follow. He said, “Martyn kindly put us up and we funded the travel costs ourselves, fitting in holidays as well. It was a great opportunity to coach where football is growing and we’d be happy to go back if the chance arose.

after

Jeremy Newton, Tony Dyer, Gary Norman and Sean Wood worked with players in New Brunswick, Maine, and also ran clinics for local school and club coaches. Jeremy explained that former STFC youth player Martyn Davison from Chippenham, who now works in New England, had invited them over. “I’ve know Martyn for many years and we were all keen to coach different players. Apart from changing a few terms, like calling bibs ‘pinneys,’ it went very well. “The standard of boys football is quite good, but girls football is at an excellent level. Women’s football is the fastest growing sport in the USA and there were some talented players in the group we were coaching.” Juliana Rattey said the training had been helpful. “I start at New Brunswick High School in September and want to try out for the

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16/07/2010 11:57

swindonlink.com • August 2010

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On patrol with Swindon North NPT Juliet Platt gets a new view of police work on the beat Being out on patrol with PC Troy Smith of Swindon North Neighbourhood Policing Team on a balmy evening in early July certainly gave a new perspective on the area, and on the delicate balancing act that is required in modern policing. “It’s all about building public going on.” Just before 10pm we find some confidence,” said PC Smith. “One of the factors is visibility of patrol youths playing a noisy game of foot– people feel reassured when they ball at a playground in Redhouse. see us on the street. They also like Although they are doing no harm, to know that they can get in touch Troy anticipates complaints from easily if they experience a problem.” local residents, so he decides to step For this reason Troy is currently in. The boys are happy to talk to us, piloting a new text service whereby and say they will be away by ten. “If you give respect you get recommunity representatives and repeat victims can have direct access spect,” says one of the boys, before to a police officer via their mobile returning to their kick-about. A call comes in at 11pm about phone throughout the period of the patrol. “Not having to go through some youths riding motorbikes on the Devizes control centre makes a play-park in Oakhurst. We head our services more immediate,” to the scene and as we arrive the youths disperse. Back on the main he said.

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www.swindoncycles.co.uk PC Troy Smith pictured at Falconer Mews, Abbey Meads, the site of numerous complaints about youths riding motorbikes along the cycle path.

The evening patrol begins at about 8pm, after Troy has checked the logs for the previous 24 hours to see if there is anything he needs to follow up. Then he gets into his squad car and begins his rounds. Local crime hot-spots, village centres and out of the way places like playgrounds are of particular interest. On his list for the evening is a bail check, making sure that an individual is respecting the conditions of their bail and obeying their curfew time. “I always try to give people the benefit of the doubt, so if they’re not doing what they should be doing I’ll give them a bit of an attitude check before deciding how to proceed,” said Troy. On this occasion all is well. Next we visit some Abbey Meads residents who have been concerned about youths riding motorbikes and scooters along the cycle ways near their home. They are reassured by the text service and offer us a cup of tea. “People are generally really nice and want to help the police however they can,” said Troy. “It’s good to talk to them and find out their concerns, because without them there’s no way of knowing what’s

21-52 August 10.indd 34

road however we catch up with a group of lads on scooters and bikes and Troy asks a couple of them to get in the back of the car for a talk. This time the boys are warned. If they are caught with bikes on play-parks again their vehicles will be seized and they will have to pay an indemnity to get them released. Troy said, “basically these kids are just bored and they need somewhere to go. At 16 and 17 they are at that in-between age where they can’t get into pubs and clubs so they’ve got to make their own entertainment.” At the end of the evening Troy concluded that it had been a quiet night. “The fear of crime is disproportionate to the actual threat in this area,” he said. “But it’s the low-level anti-social behaviour which adds to that growing fear. Our job is to do whatever we can to keep the perpetrators in check and reassure the law-abiding citizens that their neighbourhood is safe.” To register for the North Swindon NPT text service, mail Troy at: swindonnorthnpt@wiltshire.pnn. police.uk To give information about a crime without identifying yourself, call Crime Stoppers on 0800 55111.

15/07/2010 11:48

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Moon bear name has magic connection

The rescued Asiatic moon bear to be sponsored by Swindon’s Animals Asia Foundation support group will be connected to the town via its famous magic roundabout and is to be called Zebedee following a competition in the July Link. Support group coordinator Sarah more we raise the more we will be a framed photograph of Zebedee. See the advert below to take part Chilvers from Peatmoor said she able to help rescue others.” The male bear allocated to Swin- in the Animals Asia Swindon Walk had received a number of interesting suggestions and had decided on don was kept for 14 years locked in for Freedom around Lydiard Park Zebedee for two reasons. “The win- a cage no bigger than its body in a with TV celebrity antiques expert ner is Sue Prince from Lancashire domestic kitchen in Vietnam, and Paul Martin on 5 September. Sarah is organising a charity curry who told me everybody knows milked for bile through a catheter night on 4 October where the guest Swindon for the magic roundabout. permanently ﬁxed to his body. Sarah said he’s enjoying his den speaker is Jill Robinson, founder of Making this connection will raise and the company of another bear Animals Asia. Only a few of the 60 the proﬁle of Animals Asia. “Secondly, remember how Ze- and will gradually be introduced tickets are still available. To book bedee pops out of a box as if he’s to others in the Animals Asia one at £20, mail: sarahchilvers66@ hotmail.com been trapped? Moon bears are quite sanctuary. All who suggested a name were www.animalsasia-swindon.co.uk literally trapped in cages and kept entered into a draw and the winillegally in China and Vietnam. “The £5,000 sponsorship raised ner, who receives a framed print by Swindon people has given of a moon bear by Rachel Stribling freedom to one more bear and the is Lauren Spiers. Sue will receive

Time to care for dogs

Julie Wybrow from Redhouse was frustrated trying to find the right kind of care for her dog when she was away or too busy at work to give him enough exercise, so she decided to set up her own dog walking service. Since April she’s discovered there I offer ‘more than just a walk’ to are many others in the same situa- keep them fit and in good condition. “I also work around an owner’s tion and she’s been kept very busy. “It’s important you find a person shift pattern and will take dogs to you trust to look after your loving the groomers or the vet for check dog when you’re at work or away,” ups, so that people don’t have to says Julie. “Some dogs need a lot of take time off work.” For details call Julie on 078918 exercise which requires more time than some owners have available. 472337.

Join our Swindon Walk For Freedom to help Asia’s moon bears!

• Work all day or work shifts? • Weekends or days away? • Not enough time to exercise your dog? Whatever your doggy requirements call Julie on: 07818 472337

Bring your friends, family and canine companions to join the fun on this wonderful Walk for Freedom and help raise much-needed funds for Animals Asia’s vital work to help the suffering moon bears. You don’t have to be super-fit to take part; just prepared to have some fun, meet old friends and new and raise whatever funds you can for our vital cause. Every step you take, every pound you raise helps ensure a secure and happy future for suffering moon bears at our safe havens in China and Vietnam. Start today, simply register now by emailing sarahchilvers66@hotmail.com or call us on 07866 519232 and we’ll send you a sponsorship form. It’s just £10 to register (children free) and if you do this as a sponsored walk, the registration fee is waived.

For more information please check our website www.animalsasia-swindon.co.uk

Animals Asia Foundation, 3 Ashleigh Meadow, Tregondale Farm, Menheniot, Cornwall, PL14 3RG. Registered charity 1086903

21-52 August 10.indd 35

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Thameswood Veterinary Clinic F patron) Paul Martin (AA walk is attending the

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15/07/2010 11:49

swindonlink.com • August 2010 www.acerpaving.co.uk

Grand total from West gardens

After a break of a year, 20 gardens in Nine Elms and Old Shaw Lane opened over a weekend in mid-June and visitors turned out in large numbers to raise £2,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. To ease weary feet, organiser Lesley Dredge opened her front yard in Old Shaw Lane to serve cream teas and cakes. “It was an excellent weekend and I’d like to thank all the gardeners who were willing to show off their gardens. Once again there was wonderful support for Breakthrough.” Lesley with the volunteer cream tea team, from left, Jenny Machin, Isabella Lopes, Ray Dredge, Caroline Rackham, Eleanor Snowden, Lesley Dredge, Jackie Hughes

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Win tickets to tree festival

Westonbirt Arboretum’s Festival of the Tree from 23 to 30 August showcases the work of more than 130 crafts people and 12 talented sculptors. It’s a great event to celebrate all things to do with trees and the products that come from them, as well as offering countryside attractions and arena activities. The festival comes to a climax on Bank Holiday Monday with Sculptree, when the sculptors using chainsaws and chisels complete their transformation of 24 tonnes of sustainably felled wood recycled from the Westonbirt estate into elegant works of art. The finished pieces will be auctioned in support of Tree Aid, Mandy Schmidt carving Medusa at last the UK’s only forestry-based de- year’s Sculptree velopment charity which enables Lydiard Park Walled Garden communities in Africa to work with open as part of the their environments to become self National Garden Scheme reliant and ﬁght poverty. Sunday 1 August We have two pairs of tickets worth £16 on offer. Send your £2.50 adults, £2 senior, £1 child. All proceeds to charity answer to the question, in which Caring for your Pot Plants county does Sculptree takes place? Talk by Michael Smith to the address on page 4 or mail Thursday 19 August, 7.30pm publisher@swindonlink.com. Gorse Hill Community Centre Closing date: 15 August. Swindon Allotment & Leisure www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt Gardens Association

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21-52 August 10.indd 36

16/07/2010 13:15

swindonlink.com • August 2010

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21-52 August 10.indd 37

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

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Call Paul on 01666 860149 for friendly advice

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15/07/2010 11:53

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Fun Day at The Jovial Monk, St Andrewʼs Ridge Saturday 4 September, 1pm to 11pm

in aid of Phoenix Enterprises, supporting and providing employment to people with short and long term mental health illnesses Rodeo, Sumo Chicken, Wrestling, Giant Jenga, Giant Connect 4 Race Night with live music & rafﬂe www.phoenixenterprises.co.uk

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Engine diagnostics ★ Welding ★ 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

Christmas present promised to Westlea

Langstone Way in Westlea must be one of the most damaged roads in Swindon, but improvement is promised by the end of the year.

The road outside We s t l e a P r i m a r y School was in a poor state last year and the heavy frosts in February damaged it even more, to the extent that the patches below the potholes were showing through. Now Swindon Council engineers are planning to resurface the road. A spokeswoman said she hoped the work will take place in October or November. Toothill & Westlea councillor Steve Wakeﬁeld, above, welcomed the news. “Langstone Way is heavily used as a through-route which

contributes to the damage, but I’m glad to hear that it is to be resurfaced in the next few months.”

Places still on offer for women who like a challenge

Prospect Hospice is looking for women who want lots of excitement to take part in the third annual Ladies’ Driving Challenge on Sunday 26 September. This will be a chance for over 18s to try a huge range of big, butch vehicles in the secure environment of RAF Lyneham. Register for the ultimate event on four wheels at www.prospect-hospice.net/ldc

Launching the Ladies’ Driving Challenge at Thamesdown Transport in early May, from left, PC Jay Clifton, Kevan Wildy (Thamesdown Transport), Joanne Eatwell, Adam Jackson (Royal Mail), Wendy Thorne, Debbie Matthews, Steve Holmes (Royal Mail) and PC Chris Fairbairn

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21-52 August 10.indd 38

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

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16/07/2010 11:58

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Ethiopia aid trip for West helper

Sparcells resident Simon Wicks is travelling to Ethiopia in November to work with locally based charities and is appealing for help in raising charitable donations and for gifts from local companies. only 10 per cent of sufSimon will spend a ferers are strong enough week in the country’s to survive. Just £25 buys capital Addis Ababa enough food to build with a group of volone Noma sufferer up to unteers in support of full strength so they can Ethiopiaid, a charity set undergo an operation. up to create lasting and “Then you have the positive change in EthioHope Foundation, pia by tackling the issues which feeds and eduof extreme poverty, ill cates street children who would health and poor education. Simon will visit a number of otherwise resort to begging, stealhospitals and schools, help to care ing or even prostitution. Just £100 for sick people and orphans, and will provide one street child with breakfast and schooling for a whole teach English to children. Simon said, “what makes Ethio- year.” Simon’s target is to raise at least piaid different is that the money raised goes directly to local chari- £2,000 for Ethiopiaid, and he is ties run by Ethiopians, rather than appealing for donations at: www. justgiving.com/Simon-4-Ethiopia. ex-pats in the country. He is also looking for businesses “It helps fund organisations such as Mother Teresa’s Missionaries willing to donate small toys or of Charity, known locally as ‘the clothing which he can either take House of Angels’ - a compound run with him or items which could be by nuns who care for some of the sold or auctioned to raise additional poorest and sickest people, many funds for the charity. Simon has organised a quiz night of whom have been left to die in at Peatmoor’s Woodlands Edge on the streets. “It also contributes to Facing Af- Sunday 22 August, 7pm. To take rica, which offers facial reconstruc- part or help him with donated gifts, tion surgery for victims of Noma, a mail: Simon4Ethiopia@gmail.com horribly disﬁguring disease which or call 07725 782139.

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KITCHEN MAKEOVER Are your kitchen cabinets OK but the door and drawer fronts are looking a little tired? Why not consider replacing them. With a new worktop to match, you could achieve the look of a new stylish kitchen, saving you time, money and a lot of upheaval. • Complete made to measure kitchens and bedrooms also available. • Many superb styles and ﬁnishes to choose from. Ring now for an appointment Tel: Peter Galbraith on

01793 741234

www.petergalbraith.co.uk

Canal group to mark 200th year

The Wilts and Berks Canal Trust marks two centuries since the canal was started, on Sunday 12 September in the new environs of Wichelstowe where a brand new canal is being dug. There will be boat trips, canoe demonstrations and coaches will be on hand to teach children how to fish. On the event field there will be a children’s fair, vintage tractor and motor bikes, face and henna painting, a bouncy castle, arts and crafts stands, charity stalls and refreshments. The trust will have its own display stands explaining the history of the canal and information about regeneration development over the last twenty years and what’s to happen in the future. More details will be published in the September Link. www.wbct.org.uk A section of canal tow path has been restored at Moredon, by canal trust volunteers, with part of the original canal cleared and rewatered. The footpath route of about one mile now runs from Cheney Manor playing fields, between the River Ray and Nova Hreod School to the electrical substation, close to the allotments off Akers Way. A leaflet covering the Moredon walk and the link to the restored canal next to Mouldon Hill Country Park can be downloaded from www.wbct.org.uk > information/walks

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2QJ

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21-52 August 10.indd 39

16/07/2010 11:59

Want your wall or ﬂoor tiles ﬁtted? Haydon Wick Heating Services

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21-52 August 10.indd 40

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15/07/2010 12:07

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Call David: 0779 6262942 or 01793 721579, or email: dlpropertyservices@yahoo.co.uk

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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

• 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

For reliability and value for money call Simon on: 07798 684215 or 01793 829526

LOFT CONVERSION SPECIALISTS

UPVC, Facia and Guttering Specialists          

Artex covered smooth Skimming ceiling & walls Re-Boarding Stud partition walls Wall & floor tiling Pipes boxed In Painting Free estimates. Quality service guaranteed

PREMIER BUILDERS

ASHDOWN

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out

Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

DL Property Services

TileSure

Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed

• 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

Plastering & Tiling Specialist

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with

HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE

❖ Loft conversions ❖ Fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms ❖ Doors and windows ❖ Stairs ❖ All other carpentry Clean, reliable 18 years experience Call Derek Ponting on: 01793 882818 or 07865 566508 www.derekponting.co.uk

Dormer, Velux, Hip to Gable From concept to completion FREE Advice - FREE Quotes Prompt Friendly Service

Tel: 01793 635000

www.prestigeloftconversions.co.uk

16/07/2010 12:52

Tel: 01793 703550 Mob: 07749 862361 Built upon Quality & Service

DECORATOR

rior Interiors SupeTrevor Wyse

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

High Class Painter & Decorator Wallpaper Specialist - Coving Dado Rails - Tiling

Tel: 01793 723023 or 07976 885203

PAINTING & DECORATING Inc. WALL PAPERING

Domestic and Commercial

All work guaranteed

Free Quotations

Tel: 01793 770522

ELECTRICIAN Arc Electrical Services Ltd 01793 872054 0770 480 1959

arcelectrics@aol.com • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

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

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 30 years experienced tradesman

August 10 Repair & Improv.indd 42

01793 320773 07779 006360

Approved Plumber

DECORATOR MARK PONTING

Established 35 years

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

APPROVED

darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz

DECORATOR

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

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

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES

INTERIOR ★ EXTERIOR ★ WALLPAPERING ★ COVING ★

• 20 years experience • Competitive rates • No job too small • Reliable & friendly service • Free estimates

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

FLOORING

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet • Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only • Commercial/ domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 17 years experience Also minor electrical work undertaken CSCS Cardholder Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 493119 07970 865883

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

For a free estimate call Sean on

fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, 302877 machines installed

    

ain te

❉ Quality bathroom suites • Bathroom renovations • Kitchen renovations • All types of wall/floor tiling • All types of plumbing works • Boiler servicing/repairs • Central heating systems • Electrical work/testing • Carpentry/joinery work

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

& Heating

Stylish Bathrooms

Plumbing

BUILDING SERVICES

HEATING & PLUMBING RJ PEARCE

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

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

MAINTENANCE

PLASTERING

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES

KTL

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

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

De cor ato r

BATHROOMS

203455

Plastering

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

15/07/2010 14:37

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites and kitchens ﬁtted

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

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

CARPENTRY

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

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 ✓ Age Concern (Wiltshire) approved decorator ✓ Full public liability insurance ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

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

HEATING & PLUMBING

CARPENTRY

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

www.swindonlink.com

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

Free listing on site for any business. See page 26 for details

DECORATOR Exterior Painting Protect your doors, windows, fascias, soffits and rendering Quality workmanship 30 years experience All interior decoration too Friendly reliable service Free estimates

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Reg: 128966

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

ROOFING

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

215153

TILING

HOUSEMARTIN

LJ TILING

● Felt roofing ● Asphalt roofing ● Sheet roofing ● Tiling ● Slating ● Single Ply ● Fascia ● Guttering

WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST

The Rooﬁng Specialist

❇❇❇

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

August 10 Repair & Improv.indd 43

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

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

HOME MAINTENANCE

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

Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

HOME MAINTENANCE

• Central heating installation

Plumbing & Heating Services

ELECTRICIAN

01793 878609 07885 543294

G R SERVICES 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

Get a lot for nothing! at

Call Paul on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & Tiling • Power showers • Outside taps

0 ZeRo

BUILDING SERVICES

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

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

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

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

15/07/2010 14:38

ACCOUNTANCY

Lynette White MAAT

SJ BAKER ACCOUNTING

FIFTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE OF: Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT returns Payroll - CIS Scheme Final Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices

✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

Accountancy Services

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625

Email: lynettewhite48@btinternet.com Lynette White is licensed and regulated by the AAT under licence number 5014

CARPET CLEANING

A personal service for small businesses & individuals

Year End Accounts Tax Advice ✶ Bookkeeping VAT Returns ✶ Payroll & PAYE Self Assessments Corporation Tax Management Accounts

FREE initial consultation available evenings and weekends

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

CARPET CLEANING

AERIAL SERVICES

CHRIS PAYNE

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points

No call out charge

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

Same day/next day service

CLEANING

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

COMPUTER SUPPORT

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

Tel: 01793 469300

Bluebelles Cleaning

Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

Abacus Cleaning Services The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Everybody needs a break and with our regular weekly service from just £8 p.h, isn’t there something you would rather be doing? Cleaning help is no longer just for the rich and famous Reliable and Fully Insured

www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk

Call 01793 723059/07525 148 276 www.betterthanclean.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

GARAGE DOORS

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

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

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

LOCKSMITH

OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

Very competitive rates No call out charge All aspects of carpentry UPVC specialist Security grilles supplied & fitted

FREE SECURITY SURVEYS Emergency no: 07734 253189 email enquiries: oakhurstlocks@aol.com

Service Sector August 10indd.indd 44

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

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

Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £30 - 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

07766 418718

or email: oven@enlan.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

SCRAP METAL

RODDERS SCRAP METAL 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

15/07/2010 14:26

4545

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

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

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

WINDOW CLEANING KEV’S Quality Window Cleaning! Only Quality has a Future ...

CARPET CLEANING

Premier Klean

‘Set the course in cleaning’

PROFESSIONAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Premier Klean has invested in the best cleaning systems possible; our powerful machines give an excellent clean whilst using no harmful chemicals. We offer a comprehensive service. Call now for a free no obligation quotation. 0800 2800 544

COMPUTER SUPPORT Computer problems? Let us help 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 Domestic lock outs & lock changes UPVC windows & doors

Catches repaired, dropped doors adjusted

CCTV alarms & security lighting fitted and maintained Commercial work & maintenance contracts

Call 01793 331270 or 07505601616 rponting@dialalocksmith.com

ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT

• Windows • Conservatories • Frames • Sills • Guttering • Fascias

Visit my website: www.kevsqualitywindowcleaning.com

21-52 August 10.indd 45

The newly launched Save Water Swindon is offering householders the chance to have a free water efficiency check to see how use can be reduced by fitting water saving devices. Roadshow visitors can pick The project is trying to persuade residents to reduce water use by at up a water efficiency goody bag least 20 litres per person per day to including: turn Swindon from being ‘water • Hippo (for reducing water in stressed’ to become Britain’s most toilet cisterns in pre-1993 houses); water-efficient town. • Saveaflush (for use in more modRoadshows in August will pro- ern cisterns); mote ways to reduce water use • hanging basket gel - to hold moiswith a questionnaire to establish ture in plant pots/hanging baskets; where less water can be used, for • shower timers - to be sent to the example, by: home. • reducing shower time by a To talk about becoming more minute; water efficient, visit the Save Water • turning off taps; Swindon stands on: 1 August: Hop, Skip & Jump Sum• fixing leaking taps; • putting a full load in the washing mer Fete, Saltway Centre, Pearl Road, Middleleaze. 11am - 3.30pm machine; • coiling up the garden hosepipe 11 August: Sainsburys, Oxford Road, Stratton. 2pm - 6pm and using a watering can. Save Water Swindon is a partOrganisers are promoting the use of a ‘shower smart’ and will nership between Thames Water, send one to homes free of charge. WWF-UK and Waterwise. Find out more and register for They can also arrange a free water the campaign at www.savewaterefficiency makeover by Eaga to take swindon.org.uk place in the Autumn.

Check your electricity use with help from a Swindon library

Swindon Council Libraries have ﬁfty OWLs (Micro Energy Monitors) available to borrow for a week free of charge by library members. The monitors are simple to set up. They show how much electricity is being used and calculates how much it costs a household. It is estimated that over £900 million is wasted in the UK every year, by leaving domestic appliances on when not in use. The OWLs can be reserved at Central Library, Highworth, North Swindon, West Swindon, Wroughton and The Mobile.

Summer Holiday Golf Lessons for girls and boys aged 7–11 at the Best Western Blunsdon House Hotel For further information or a booking form contact: Marc McCracken on 07876 684645 personalgolfcoach@hotmail.com

Stitches Sewing Service

Dressmaking, Alterations and Repairs, Bespoke Costumes

Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc.

Friendly, reliable service Contact Jean on 07887 600319

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT . . .

All cleaned at competitive rates! Call Kevin on 01793 854242 or 07935 480112

Water efficiency makeover bookings now being taken

Call 01793 602540 for details

RAINWATER HARVESTING HEAT PUMPS SOLAR WATER HEATING WIND TURBINES SOLAR ELECTRICITY . . . then give us a call

Tel: 01793 772277 www.rainwindsun.com E-mail: enquiries@rainwindsun.com

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

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

Lawn & Hedge Cutting • Maintenance General Garden Tidy • Patios • Turfing

Give your garden a makeover Call John Dowell on 07892 436198 j.dowell@live.co.uk

15/07/2010 16:53

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Swindon MPs launch town centre office

Robert Buckland and Justin Tomlinson have opened a joint ofﬁce at One Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE (opposite the Health Hydro).

Emotional reunion in Belarus for charity volunteer

To contact their staff call 533393 or mail: justin.tomlinson.mp@parliament. Richard Goddard, a chartered architect from Old Town, recently returned from Belarus, where he visited children and families affected uk or robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk by the Chernobyl nuclear reactor disaster of 24 years ago. The office is open to visitors between 10am and 3pm. family with an income “My wife Sally and through dairy proI have been involved duce and potentially with the Chernobyl veal.” Children in Need charThe Goddards will Advice workers are calling on more mature residents in West Swindon ity for a few years now, be hosting a Belarus to use their valuable service if they encounter any consumer problem. and have hosted eight interpreter this sumThe CAB Over 55s Advice Project tact us because they might have a different children in mer as part of the Team want people to be aware that problem or a question and aren’t Swindon,” said Richannual visit from the they can help with issues ranging sure where they can get further ard. “Many people have Chernobyl children. from benefits to debt, housing to help. There are lots of sources of forgotten about nuclear nuisance neighbours. The scheme information out there, and we can radiation from Chernobyl but sadly Eight children aged from 8 to 16 years arrived in mid-July. They will was set up last year following the usually help to point people in the it’s an on-going problem.” During his stay Richard visited receive free eye and dental checks, closure of Age Concern in recogni- right direction.’ While the existing CAB services the Ozarichi school where he was and will enjoy parties and outings tion of the need for an advice service are open to all, the over-55s team reunited with eight-year-old Vika, to venues such as the Cotswold for older people. Project coordinator Caroline offer extra ways to get in touch, above, a young girl who came to his Wildlife Park funded by ThamesDavies Khan said that in less than a including a dedicated phone advice home last year. “When she saw me down Rotary Club. “The trip certainly changed my year, the team has helped Swindon line, appointments at the CAB of- she ran at top speed, jumped into people increase their income by fice in Faringdon Road and home my arms and gave me an enormous perception of how we live,” said over £350,000, often through ben- visits. The team can be contacted on hug. It was an emotional moment Richard. “All the things we take for efits like pension credit and council 491889 Monday to Friday between and confirmed to me that Chernobyl granted are luxury items over there. Children in Need are doing a job It made me realise how lucky we tax relief. ”Sometimes people con- 10am and 1pm. that is very much appreciated by are. While embracing the problems of another culture is not easy, all we the people of Belarus.” Richard and his co-volunteers can do is try to explain, and hope Cafes closed for holiday also presented an Ozarichi family that the generosity of people will West Swindon Community Cafes will be closed during August and will with a cow purchased by Swindon win through.” reopen on Monday 6 September at Toothill Church and Wednesday 8 employees of Cable & Wireless For details of Chernobyl Children September at Freshbrook Church. Worldwide who had run the Read- in Need call Gin McGiffin on 07753 Organisers hope to open a second day in Freshbrook but need more ing marathon to raise money. He 662891. volunteers to join them. Call Tina Mackie on 07944 134915 if you can help. said, “the animal will provide the www.ccin.co.uk

Help and advice for the over-55s

A route out of poverty for this Belarus family, thanks to Chernobyl Children in Need

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

On Thames Avenue next door to 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

21-52 August 10.indd 46

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 Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

16/07/2010 12:02

swindonlink.com • August 2010

Two world record attempts in aid of Breakthrough set for early September

Sixteen football players made up from David Lloyd Club members, staff, friends and Marks and Spencer employees will be attempting to break the Guinness world record for the longest ever 5-a-side football and tennis matches to raise £20,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. This means playing footie for raise brand awareness by having a over 28 hours and tennis for over presence at the club throughout the 37 hours non stop. Games start in event, or for community groups and the early hours on 4 September with schools to see how they can show both attempts ending in a momen- their support individually. ”Working with Paul Parfrey from tous ﬁnish on Sunday 5 September. The effort is the latest fundraising Breakthrough, the club is also doeffort by the North Swindon leisure nating day passes worth £42 for just £5, available from Marks & Spencer club since it opened in July 2007. Stephanie Martin of David Lloyd at the North Swindon Centre and and Darren Jesson of M&S, have the Designer Outlet branches.” To offer sponsorship or particicalled on Swindon residents to assist in any way possible, and help pate in some way with the world participants achieve the record. record attempt, mail: Stephanie “The players themselves need to at: mship.swindon@davidlloyd. change several times throughout co.uk or Eunice Salmon from this attempt, so there are sponsor- Breakthrough: eunice.salmon@ ship opportunities available in ntlworld.com. Donations can be made at www. either branding or supplying the shirts. This could be a great op- justgiving.com/DLSwindonworlportunity for local businesses to drecordattempt

Join a mad team for Breakthrough

Samaritans call for people to ensure essential work can continue

“Listening to someone who is perhaps depressed, worried, frightened and/or suicidal and who doesn’t know where to turn to, is perhaps the most valuable thing we can do for a fellow human being,” according to a volunteer Elaine. And you could help people like her continue writes Denise Bentley, chair of Friends of Samaritans Swindon. Samaritans vision is of a society by the suicide of another. If you could spare 2 to 3 hours where fewer people die by suicide and for more than 40 years, Swin- per month to set up and run a lodon & District Samaritans has given cal fundraising group, for instance conﬁdential, emotional support to holding a regular coffee morning/ many thousands of people. Our book club, be a point of contact for service is provided entirely by vol- our charity shop donations or run a unteers, busy people from all walks collection box scheme, then please of life who share the same vision. contact me. You can be assured that Swindon Over 70 per cent of suicidal people felt that contact with Samaritans & District Samaritans is a volunteerhelped them make a decision not led charity with no full-time staff to end their own lives. Our branch and your contribution will enable us received over 35,000 contacts in to continue to provide our 24/7 service and make a difference locally. the last year Please can you help us in our ef- Denise Bentley, Chair - Friends of forts to raise vital and much needed Swindon Samaritans, 5/6 Curtis Street, funds to help support those who are Swindon. Tel: 512490. Mail: Swindon@ at risk of suicide and those affected samaritans.org

Foodbank collections coming up

Do you have enthusiasm, energy and creativity, and time to spare? You could be part of the team which organises Swindon’s premier 5k and 10k event in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. The Mad March Hare organising group is looking for volunteers. You don’t need experience, the team will help you gain the confidence to take on different tasks. For details mail: margaret.nicholson53@yahoo. co.uk or call 07999 566945. www.madmarchhare.org.uk

Swindon Foodbank provides emergency food to those in desperate need and is preparing to assist people affected by public spending cuts. To be able to do this the charity depends on donations of food collected by groups, in schools, business and by volunteers outside supermarkets. Find out how you can help at www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk or make a donation at the next collection programmed for Thursday 2 September at Tesco Extra, Ocotal Way.

SWINDON & GLOUCESTER

FOR EVERYTHING IN DECORATING

WINDOW GROUP

Bifold Doors

Flawless floors? Woodcare: Woodstains • Preservers Varnishes • Oils • Polishes & Waxes

supplied & fitted (limited size)

Plus all the major paint brands, wallcoverings and fabrics, decorating accessories with FREE delivery.

£1,800

Conservatory 3m x 3.3m supplied & fitted lighting & heating 3 types of design to choose from

£6,500

Tel/Fax: 01793 331551 Mobile: 07775 621764

21-52 August 10.indd 47

4 Wyndham Road Hawksworth Trading Estate Swindon Tel 01793 643200 Fax 01793 487776 swindon@brewers.co.uk

15/07/2010 16:55

21-52 August 10.indd 48

15/07/2010 14:52