Fireworks displays in November Bonfires & fireworks at Lydiard Park & Old Town and at primary schools - see page 3
Business backing needed for 2012 - see page 21
No. 354 November 2011 • Circulation 27,000
on paper, online - the positive newsforce in Swindon
Westlea don red, white and blue Children at Westlea Primary, a school with many children and teachers involved with the services, marked the tenth anniversary of involvement in Afghanistan by supporting the ten for ten campaign. See page 14.
11 - 11 - 11
A Photographic Remembrance by Deborah Coleman Steam Museum Monday 7 to Sunday 13 November
MEADOWPARK inspirational education childcare with love
Jack and Aaron Bradshaw with Abbie Humphries and military mascot
NURSERY
0 to 4 years at Meadowpark Calcutt Street, Cricklade
Talking science and discussing restorative justice on page 23 All about walking on page 33
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Swindon based photojournalist and documentary photographer Deborah has been recording the remembrance services at the Cenotaph in Swindon and also the repatriations through the town of Wootton Bassett for several years. The exhibition is an amalgamation of both projects, a poignant display of how people in Swindon and the wider community pay their respects to service personnel who have fallen in the line of duty either in previous or in current conflict situations. The exhibition is entitled ‘11’ because of this important year of remembrance, 11/11/11. • We go to Royal Wootton Bassett on page 28
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
London marathon to become Iron Man challenge in aid of Chernobyl children and families
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CYCLE REPAIRS Free collection
Friday 25th November to Sunday 11th December
School bonfires and fireworks Oliver Tomkins Infant & Junior School:Wednesday 2 November, 6pm Fireworks, with hot dogs and refreshments. Organised by Stars (Friends/ Parents of the School) to help fund the extension between the two buildings. St Francis Church of England School: Thursday 3 November, gates 5.30pm, fireworks 6.30pm Fireworks plus hot dogs and drinks. Organised by FAITH, the PTA, for school funds. Tickets in advance £3 adult, £2 children, £10 family, on the gate £3.50, £2.50 and £12. Catherine Wayte Primary School: Thursday 3 November, gates 6pm, fireworks 7pm Fireworks and hot refreshments including bacon rolls and hot dogs. £10 family ticket, £3 single. Organised by the PTA for school funds. Haydon Wick Primary School: Thursday 3 November, gates 6pm, fireworks 7pm Fireworks, hot refreshments, glow sticks on sale. Organised by the PTA for school funds. £3 each or two for £5 in advance, £4 on the gate. Westlea Primary School: Friday 4 November, gates & barbecue 5.15pm, bonfire 6pm, fireworks 6.30pm Refreshments including hot and cold drinks, jacket potatoes, burgers, hot dogs, sweets. Organised by the Friends of Westlea for school funds. Adults £5, child £3, family £14.
selection of handcrafted clothes, gifts and toys, together with festive food and drink. Switching on of the Christmas lights Children’s lantern procession Performance podium showcasing local talent
Cirencester Christmas Market
Three Swindon fitness fanatics have set themselves the challenge of raising £5,000 for Chernobyl Children & delivery from in Need by turning next year’s London marathon into a triathalon challenge. home or work for CCIN from Oakhurst, said, “it’s Dave Colford 42, Chris Len★ Servicing & repairs brilliant what the guys are comnon 32 and Paul Bevis, 30, have ★ New cycles Over 25 yrs mitting themselves to. The money been accepted for the London experience ★ Parts & accessories raised will allow us to do so much marathon on 22 April. But for children and families in Belarus.” to give it an extra dimension Safety alert Sponsor the project at www. they are going to treat it as an Bikes bought on the internet justgiving.com/Dave-Chris-Paul Iron Man event by swimming or mail order must be serviced 2.4 miles at South Cerney fol• Dave, Chris and Paul would like before being ridden. CALL NOW lowed by a 112 mile bike race to hear from anybody who wants to for fast, friendly service the day before. take part in the swim or cycle eleChernobyl Children in Need ment of the challenge. To take part Phil Mitchell: 874873 day or eve. provides support to people mail: kerriecolford@btinternet.com or 07850 650956 (mobile) in Belarus affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986, particularly around the village of Ozarichi. It arranges Iron Men Dave and Paul. respite holidays for children in Chris was unavailable for the photo call Wiltshire, away from the irradiated zone, and funds community and Paul will be spent on purchasdevelopment projects. Money has ing 10 chickens for three families, been spent on renovating school a cow each for three other families, kitchens and toilets, and buying summer camp for three children in livestock to improve family nutri- Belarus, and to bring three children tion and give a source of income. to Swindon. Traditional wooden chalets offering a The money raised by Dave, Chris Gin McGiffin, Swindon organiser
Visit www.christmasincirencester.org.uk
SWINDON LIONS FIREWORKS DISPLAY & EDWARDS FUNFAIR SATURDAY 5th NOVEMBER Polo Ground, Marlborough Road, Swindon Gates open 5.30pm • Firework display 7.15pm Advance tickets Adults £6.00; children/OAPs £4.00 Admission at the gates Adults £8.00; children/OAPs £5.00 For more details go to www.swindonlions.org.uk
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In appreciation of Steve Jobs and Apple
We couldn’t let the untimely and tragically early death of Apple Computer founder Steve Jobs pass without comment as his vision back in the day has direct impact on what you’re reading, writes Link magazine publisher Roger Ogle Most people will know of Apple nology’ from Apple and the changin its more recent incarnation as ing industry landscape meant that creators of beautifully designed we could take control of how we and supremely functional mobile produced the magazine at a lower devices to make phone calls and cost and in less time. We’ve been doing much the send email, listen to music, read books, write books, search web sites same for over 23 years, except we and engage with social networks now use much faster and much cheaper iMacs. The speed allows us electronically. to do a lot more at the But The Link was same time - replying to part of an earlier revoemail, adding articles lution when Apple to www.swindonlink. was the first to procom, putting out story duce a graphically announcements on based computer with a Facebook and Twitter. mouse. Before 1987 The Much has been writLink was a newsletter ten and said about created using a typeSteve Job’s pursuit of writer, cut and pasted perfection and his getogether with a blade nius ability to convince and glue, and stick-on buyers that Apple offer lettering, a very crude must-have products time consuming and whilst making shedloads of money. difficult to amend procedure. Jobs once described Apple’s When we relaunched as a monthly we used a typesetter and graphic aim was to make insanely great artist but by 1988 three inventions products. Whilst we at Swindon inspired by Apple made it possible Link can only aspire to that ideal, to produce the publication in-house we’d like to thank him for giving us - literally our front room in West the means to produce an excellent Swindon: a faster Macintosh com- read, for, perhaps, far longer than puter with larger screen, the Apple we could have thought of when we laserwriter and Aldus Pagemaker first started. desktop publishing software. Speak the news We were following in the path of Eddie Shah, now a fellow Wiltshire If you’ve ever fancied yourself as resident, in the use of the Macintosh an editor, newsreader or sound to produce the Today newspaper in engineer, then the weekly Swindon 1986, and then Rupert Murdoch’s Talking Newspaper needs you to News International breaking in that enable blind and visually impaired same year the antiquated control of people to keep in touch with what’s newspapers exerted by the trades going on locally. union in the graphical and printing Find out by calling 522511 or industries. mail:Stan@swindontalkingnews. The availability of the ‘new tech- org.uk Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead, Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 e: publisher@swindonlink.com
Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840
Editorial for December by 7 November Published: 26 November Copy for January: 5 December ‘Like’ Swindon Link
/swindonlink
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for December advertisements: 4 November
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“The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.” The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Swindon Publications Ltd. cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford
20/10/2011 15:40
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Ridgeway Farm plan delay due to traffic
Detailed examination of the impact of traffic in Swindon and North Wiltshire from another 800 houses built at Ridgeway Farm, north of Peatmoor and Sparcells, beyond Swindon’s border with Wiltshire, has meant a further hold up in hearing the planning application. Shaw and Nine Elms councillor Over 1,000 written objections A date in November has been set for Wiltshire Council’s Strategic against the plan have been lodged, Keith Williams said, “the Wiltshire Planning Committee to debate and Swindon councillors, both the Council Planning Committee needs whether Taylor Wimpey’s proposal town’s MPs, as well as Wiltshire to understand that Swindon’s planfor Ridgeway Farm should go ahead councillors representing Cricklade, ning Core Strategy does not require - but this may be delayed until early Purton and Lydiard Millicent, have Ridgeway Farm to provide for the town’s housing requirement.” all expressed opposition. December.
West school road safety petition
Coun Steve Wakefield has been given a 160 name petition by Toothill Primary School calling for a safe crossing point on Stokesay Drive. He said he will be discussing the situation with the council’s highways department with a view to a presentation at the West Swindon Forum in January.
Less than 11 per cent of developer millions has benefited North Swindon Two chances to find out where it’s gone In several editions this year The Link has highlighted where the £14.375 million paid by the developers of Priory Vale to Swindon Council under Section 106 planning agreements has gone and the lack of transparency in the way it has been allocated. On 23 November, 7pm, Abbey Now residents have two chances to uncover the mysteries of S106 and Meads councillor Vera Tomlinson ask difficult questions of their own. has provisionally booked a date On 16 November, 6.30pm, at for the North Swindon Cluster at the Haydon Wick Parish Council Haydon Wick Parish Council offices offices, next to the Haydon Centre, with senior councillors, the BorThames Avenue, Jim Grant, leader ough Solicitor and senior planning of the opposition Labour Group and finance officers in attendance on the council, will discuss the to discuss where there 106 money council’s proposed new Section has been spent. For meeting confirmation mail: 106 policy, having discovered that only 10.8 per centre of the money AJordan@swindon.gov.uk has been allocated to the benefit of • £10.47m of North S106 money is North Swindon residents. The rest to be spent on Great Western Way has been spent all over the town on improvements. See the plans at the road improvements, sports pitches Oasis Leisure Centre from 17 to 20 November. and other projects.
Could you become a friend of Mouldon Hill?
A North Swindon Cluster meeting on 20 October discussed the next phase of development of the country park opposite Taw Hill. A car park and junior football more footpaths and seating. A Friends of Mouldon Hill is pitches were opened earlier in the year and at the end of October, a being formed to encourage users new footpath was completed to link to look out for the park and report up different sections to make a 3km damage or litter, contribute ideas to circular pedestrian route, including its development, and take part in practical activities like tree planting, the North Wilts canal tow path. The meeting discussed options coppicing and keeping footpaths for the next phase of development clear of brambles. For details contact which included features such as a park ranger Karl Curtis: k.curtis@ BMX track, an adventure play area, swindon.gov.uk or call 490150.
Car share. Kevin Fisher of Shaw Residents’ is coordinating a car pool for the Wiltshire Council meeting. To be advised when it will take place, mail: shaw-residents@ virginmedia.com
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Wide agenda for West Forum The West Swindon Forum on Monday 14 November, 7pm, will discuss the latest situation on the Ridgeway Farm planning application, police work across the area, parking issues on Idovers Drive, Toothill, and other points raised by residents. The discussion from the last meeting, about improving cycling routes from the West using government funding, will be continued. The West Swindon Forum is a meeting point between residents from across the three wards and the 8 councillors representing the area.
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For the second year running, inSwindon BID and The Brunel will be providing a five-week long Santa’s Grotto, and are combining to raise money for Goldenhar Family Support Group UK. Goldenhar Syndrome is a rare condition with no known cause, which usually affects one side of the body and can give the sufferer problems with breathing and hearing, as well as producing pains in the ribs and vertebrae. On Tuesday 8 November, Dr Chris Steele from ITV1’s This Morning, will be visiting Swindon to introduce excited reception children from Westlea Primary School to Santa at a private viewing of this year’s Santa’s Grotto. One of the children who started school in September is Morgan Sharpe, who suffers from a severe form of Goldenhar. His mum, Kerry Holmes said, “I’ve told Morgan about his class visit to see Santa and he is very excited. It will also
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be a pleasure for us to be meeting with Dr Chris again.” Morgan previously met Dr Chris when the family appeared on ITV1’s This Morning with Philip Schofield and Fern Britton in February 2009. He has since become patron of the charity and will be travelling straight from the studios to launch the grotto which officially opens to the public from 17 November after the town centre’s Christmas lights are switched on. Simon Jackson, CEO of inSwindon said, “Santa’s Grotto is always a great success and this year, The Brunel and inSwindon wanted to share it with a charity. Morgan and his family have gone through a lot over the years and hopefully Santa’s Grotto will create a great deal more awareness of Goldenhar Family Support Group UK and Swindon’s support to other families across the UK.” Read about Morgan and Kerry at http://bit.ly/morganmail
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
‘Let’s Go Toothill’ The Toothill Lottery Million Steering Committee invites residents to a free supper and chat to look at some of the ideas that have been put forward to spend the Big Local lottery money on over the next ten years.
Wednesday 16 November, 6pm to 8pm Toothill Primary School Feel free to just turn up and take part. Creche available. For childcare and catering please call to let organisers know if you’re attending on 07531 692968. If you can’t make the evening discussion, come along and talk over a cream tea on Saturday 19 November, 2pm to 4pm at Toothill Community Centre
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Looking to develop a career in media sales?
Located in a beautiful converted warehouse in the centre of the historic town of Malmesbury, 15 miles west of central Swindon and established for 11 years, Premier Concepts is a market leading niche advertising company specialising in health media within NHS hospitals. Due to continued expansion, we are now looking to recruit 2 additional ambitious B2B telesales executives into our existing team of 30+ people. Suited to very focused individuals, wishing to earn high remuneration within a professional Sales environment, the role involves working on a project by project basis for different NHS Trusts selling advertising space within their hospitals. Fast track promotion is possible within 1 year. Ideally possessing previous telesales and media experience, you will also be: • Well spoken & professional, with an enthusiastic manner • Highly self motivated / determined / self confident / willing to learn • Good communicator & listener • Possess ability to think & analyse during real – time conversations • Intelligent, organised & systematic in approach • Microsoft Office literate
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small steps a little something for parents
Small Steps Magazine understand that getting the work/life balance right can be tricky! You love your children but want to do something for yourself! And in these hard times we could all do with the extra pennies. Due to the exciting development of Small Steps and its regional growth, we are looking to further expand our dedicated sales team. Are you a focused individual looking to get back to work and wishing to earn high remuneration within a sales environment (up to 27K FTE per year with a great basic salary)? If so, Small Steps Magazine can offer you flexible working hours, that could even fit around term time.
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New weight restriction signs go up
Following our September story about heavy vehicles using Cross Lanes Junction in north Wiltshire which impacts on North and West Swindon, Wiltshire councillor Jacqui Lay, below, reports that Swindon Council is replacing defunct 17 ton weight limit signs with new signs showing the new 18 ton limit. The signs to advise drivers of restrictions over the Tadpole Lane bridge, over the River Ray, and railway bridge at Blunsdon Station will be put up at the Oakhurst Way Tadpole Lane pole Lane should have the limit roundabout and at Cross Lanes on reduced to 7.5 ton has been turned down because of the low level of the B4553. However her request that Tad- HGV traffic.
Parish wants North residents to help form a plan for the future
Blunsdon St Andrew Parish Council would like to hear from residents in North Swindon who are interested in lending their voice, time and skills to help shape the future of their community through the Parish Strategy. Councillor Ian Jankinson said lated the parishioners then draw up “people often don’t realise that an action plan and work together Abbey Meads, Redhouse and St and with others, to deliver the soluAndrews Ridge all fall within the tions for the area.” Ian said, “the strategy is a workparish of Blunsdon St Andrew, which receives a precept of £95,000 ing document which becomes an from Council Tax to be spent within important influencing tool that can be used in applying for funding, the parish.” At an initial meeting in Blunsdon to enhance services, and to help to kick off the process of designing the community participate more a Parish Strategy, Community De- effectively in public consultations”. “As the northern expansion has velopment Officer Belinda Fowler from Community First explained a dearth of community facilities, the key aspects of community-led and has recently lost out in the planning. “It’s about engaging allocation of section 106 monies, the grass-roots of the community drawing up a Parish Strategy is the to provide the evidence of need best way to answer challenges about on a wide range of issues such as the evidence of need in the future.” From launch through to evidence, building developments, the environment, tourism, transport, traffic, action and delivery, if you want to employment and education, youth take a lead in shaping the future of your community, contact the parish and the elderly,” “Once the evidence has been col- clerk, Rachel Smith, on 705617. Advertising Feature
Expanding local media company bucks the trend Premier Concepts, the market leading media company based in Malmesbury, is bucking the current trend, with big plans for expansion over the coming year and is looking for staff to ensure continued success. Since its formation in 1999, the company has grown from a start up team of four to a team of over 30 staff. The company sells advertising in two main sectors: Premier Concepts health media within NHS hospitals and Small Steps regional baby & toddler magazines. Helen Adams, Premier’s overall MD, attributes the company’s resilience in a difficult market to strong product offers and high quality, committed staff. She says “the great strength of both our brands is that we can offer businesses the chance to promote themselves to a highly targeted local audience and this remains attractive to our clients, even in tougher times. “We have just branched out into Small Steps on-line advertising with further developments planned over the coming months; overall we are upbeat about the coming year,” As part of their expansion plans, the company is actively seeking to recruit additional sales executives. If you would like to find out more about the exciting opportunities available, please contact Helen Adams or Nicky Norridge via the advertisements on the left.
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
THE COMPLETE CURTAIN SERVICE
MP Justin Tomlinson called to take the hot seat at North Swindon meeting
Residents of all the communities that would be affected by the proposed development at Tadpole Farm are being invited to a public meeting on Friday 2 December, 7pm, at Blunsdon Village Hall, where MP for North Swindon Justin Tomlinson will answer questions and clarify his own position on the development plans, with particular focus on school provision, section 106 monies and waste disposal plans. The evening is school places and being hosted by when a primary Oakhurst Resischool is likely to be dents’ Association. built is a particular Secretary Steph Exconcern. ell said, “while Mr “There is a need Tomlinson, right, for 0.23 primary spoke out against school places per development at house, which Tadpole Farm back works out at just in April we have under 400 for the since heard nothing from him. Tadpole Farm area alone. If a new “We want all the communities primary school is not operational affected by the plans for Tadpole from the start this is an impossibly Farm to come together to express high number for the current North their views, and to ascertain what Swindon primary schools to absorb. support they can count on from “It will be unacceptable and untheir MP.” sustainable for hundreds of children She added that the provision of to be accommodated in schools elsewhere across Swindon.” Also on the agenda is the subOakhurst annual ject of waste disposal, as plans to meeting establish a pyrolysis (incinerator) Oakhurst Residents’ Association plant on a site adjacent to Tadpole holds its annual general meeting Farm will involve 7 to 8 trucks per on Wednesday 23 November, day transporting tons of municipal 7.30pm, at Oakhurst Primary waste to the site for burning, via the School, Pioneer Road. former A419 through Blunsdon. As well as voting for a manageSteph added, “Tadpole Farm ment committee, there will be a presents many issues which will presentation about the Tadpole affect large numbers of people Farm development and its impact in different ways. By joining up on North Swindon, with particular to confront issues, this is a good reference to school places. example of how our communities All residents are welcome to can be stronger together.” attend. • Blunsdon parish worry for North http://bit.ly/oakhurstresidents bus route - page 41
Crest adjusts Tadpole Farm plan
Crest Strategic Developments held a community consultation preplanning application display on 24 September at Isambard School so that company representatives could present the results of the public consultations held in March. It is expected that Crest will Fifty five per cent of the public’s response concerned the impact on submit their planning application in roads and traffic of the proposed late October, though many local rep1,700 houses, with nearly a third resentatives are disappointed that of respondents expressing concerns little has changed in the proposals about the need for further develop- since the consultations happened. Stuart Boyd chairman of Blunsment, and its effects on drainage and flooding. A substantial number of don Parish Council said, “this whole comments also reflected local con- consultation process has been an cerns about education, community exercise in changing the colour of and medical provision in the area. the paint on the posts. It’s all been Crest Strategic Projects’ summary about communication and transparof comments states, “Crest will ency but no action.” But councillor Peter Stoddart provide all the necessary facilities at Tadpole Farm to support the scale of said Swindon Council's position development that will be proposed supported the Crest application. “Crest have had a rough time over in the planning application.” Planning Consultant Des Dunlop this. The fact is the Core Strategy for Crest, said, “I’d like to think was voted in four years ago so we that people will find this display can’t now vote against it. No matter helpful, and take it in the spirit of what objections are put in the way transparency and communication of the proposal you can’t make the developer take notice.” in which it is intended.”
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Goldenhar Family Support Group (UK)
www.thebrunel.co.uk
20/10/2011 10:51
swindonlink.com • November 2011
11
West Swindon Centre: 30 years later
First there was Carrefour, complete with its own on-site wine buyer, followed by Gateway Supermarkets, which was then bought by Asda which in turn in was taken over by Walmart. At the time the ‘wild West’ of easy to reach attraction, convenient- on a street, but in the dry. We’re well On 27 October the West Swindon Centre will have served the Toothill, Freshbrook and some of ly located next to Link Centre and positioned in the middle of West western expansion of the town for Westlea didn’t have much in the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park. The free Swindon’s housing and people three decades, the first large scale way of facilities - areas like Grange parking has always been a draw. like the more intimate size of the Manager Stuart Tanfield said, centre. It’s easy to pop in before or out of town shopping area built in Park and Shaw had yet to be built. Swindon, having opened just five Then The Link wrote: ‘Now we can “many visitors like coming to the after school for example and you’ll years after the first people arrived say nobody else in Swindon has a Asda superstore and also using the always bump into someone that you in Toothill. The October 1981 Link superstore on their front doorstep.’ newsagent, pharmacy and travel know. I think the centre has served It also opened with a garden cen- agency because it’s like shopping the community well.” looked forward to the superstore with its collection of small shop tre which closed about 10 years later. The centre quickly became an units under a cover mall.
Priory Vale ten years on
Wednesday 22 November marks ten years since Thamesdown Drive was officially opened; later that week, on 26 November Asda Walmart opened its doors at the North Swindon District Centre, to be followed by the other retail units and community facilities such as the library and youth centre. Six primary, secondary and In the months before the ribbon was cut on Thamesdown Drive to special schools have been built in join the A419 to the M4 via West Priory Vale, plus a brand new Nova Swindon, builders had been busy Hreod School which serves the area. However the glaring lack of preparing access roads and laying foundations for the first homes shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants, planned across the Haydon III de- community hall, medical centre velopment, to be marketed as Priory and a community hall at Redhouse Vale - spread across three distinct Village Centre promised in marketareas, Haydon End, Oakhurst and ing material put out by developers Crest is a sore point amongst Redhouse. Within a few months the first residents. Most of the sites at the centre have people arrived in Redhouse. The development had actually started now been turned into housing and a year late after Swindon Friends Crest are demanding a high price of the Earth, following the 1997 from any pub operator who wants election, managed to get the Labour to open there. Paul and Sheila Edwards, who government to force the consortium of builders to carry out a detailed own The Works Salon, the first environmental assessment for the business to arrive at Redhouse are area. It had been deemed unneces- delighted by their success. “I know sary by the previous Conservative there is still a lot to do here, but we’ve government when the Haydon III built a very positive relationship master plan was drawn up some with our customers. The majority of people love living in Priory Vale, five years earlier. It’s remarkable how much has as we do. It’s matured very quickly; been built in ten years of rapid there’s a strong sense of belonging. development. Most of the 5,500 • Read what North Swindon MP houses planned for the area have Justin Tomlinson thinks of Priory been completed providing new Vale at www.swindonlink.com homes for individuals and families, • What’s your experience of living and developers are now hungrily in Priory Vale? Mail your views to: looking at adding a further 1,700 publisher@swindonlink.com houses to the north at Tadpole Farm.
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Early 1981, six months before opening. Note the absence of Link Centre and Shaw Ridge Leisure Park
01793 613000 www.harmonybrides.co.uk Devizes Rd, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BG (Opposite the Arts Centre)
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21/10/2011 14:31
Young Mum Swindon Link 130x93_Layout 1 11/07/2011 10:24 Page 1
12 swindonlink.com • November 2011
Villagers’ concerns about school buses
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The parishioners of Lydiard Millicent are extremely concerned about Bradon Forest school buses passing through their village, and are organising a traffic count to verify the number of buses and the routes they take. Secretary to the parish plan movements through the village. update steering group John Ben- “Our school bus service from Swinnett said, “thirty nine per cent of don has used the number 53 bus parishioners returned a recent route through Lydiard Millicent for questionnaire with 32 per cent of over 35 years. The original service respondents wanting a reduction was provided by Wiltshire County in school bus traffic through our Council until Swindon took over responsibility for education and village. “The number of Thamesdown school buses in 1997. “In 2008, Swindon were running buses has dropped since the issue was first raised in 2005, however 12 buses to Bradon Forest School. Bradon Forest school has a private However in 2009 Swindon Council bus service to bring in students decided to withdraw provision of from north and west Swindon using buses to the school and we now routes through Lydiard Millicent.” run our own service. This year we Volunteers from the parish will are running five buses on this route take part in the traffic count and and Swindon Council continue to depending on the results the parish operate two vehicles as they wind council will then take the matter up down their service. “In addition, Wiltshire Council with the school. At the moment buses are using runs school buses on this route routes in and out of the village transporting children from the that are restricted to 7.5 tons and north Wiltshire area to ourselves 30 mph to save half a mile on the and Wootton Bassett. As well as journey, instead of going along The the number 53 service buses, CiPry and Packhorse Lane, which are rencester College and New College unrestricted. Parishioners clearly use this route and, at various times, feel that this is putting lives at risk independent schools have also run a service.” in the village.” The steering group hopes to have However Bradon Forest headteacher Len Spiers said the school collated the results of their survey is not responsible for all the bus by early November.
21/10/2011 10:30
swindonlink.com • November 2011
13
Energy minister and npower bosses take part in Tregoze environmental day
Minister for Energy Charles Hendry MP, Volker Beckers, CEO of RWE npower and Peter Terium of RWE Group joined year 5 and 6 pupils at Tregoze Primary School for a Climate Cops Academy day in early October.
Charles Hendry, Volker Beckers and Peter Terium with Tregoze pupils learning to use energy wisely
npower’s environmental educational programme Climate Cops engages children in learning simple ways to save energy. They took part in interactive activities including generating electricity with body movement, working with miniature examples of renewable energy sources and using thermal imaging cameras to see the effects of insulation. Watching and participating in the activities, Charles Hendry said,” this is a fantastic initiative, which is helping young people learn more about where we get our energy from
and what it means for the planet. “I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the children; I’m sure that they will take what they have learned away with them and make a big difference to their school and homes.” Volker Beckers added, “we are proud of our Climate Cops programme and believe it’s essential to get young people involved and inspired about energy efficiency. Energy is the lifeblood of our society, and a greater understanding of this brings with it respect for generations to come.”
Year 6 pupils help their heroes
Thirty year 6 pupils from Tregoze, Drove and Mountford Manor primary schools worked together with volunteers from Intel in late September to plan, market and advertise a series of fundraising events in aid of Help for Heroes. With the help of local veterans who visited to be interviewed on film by the children, the pupils prepared their pitch and presented their plans to their schools. As a result, Tregoze school will be holding a World War II fete to commemorate the armistice in November, Mountford will be building Tregoze pupils Callum Hardie and a combat obstacle course, and Drove Joseph McCormack with Albert Davy will be holding a cake sale. Mark Woodward, IT manager friendly. The children were very with Intel said, “as my team are interested in talking to us.” Chelsea Hughes, from Mountall IT literate we were keen to do some community work that was ford Manor, said, “I enjoyed interIT focused. We were very pleased viewing Albert and felt sad when when Tregoze staff suggested a day he said that his biggest regret was using multimedia and ICT work to not to have been able to serve for his prepare a presentation advertising country because he had a problem upcoming fundraisers at each of with his hearing.” Tregoze pupil Natalie Moore the schools.” Korean War Veterans’ Associa- added, “it’s been a good experience tion secretary Albert Davey said he working with the adults from Intel. had not set foot in a school since he It’s also been good to find out what left his own 60 years ago. “It’s an the veterans think Help for Heroes amazing set up, very bright and money should be spent on.”
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20/10/2011 15:43
14 swindonlink.com • November 2011
MEN’S SHOES an outstanding selection • Church’s • Padders • Loakes • Clarks • Barker • Rohde • Rieker • Anatomic Gel Also an extensive range of slippers now in stock
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School stands by the colours after 10 years
Westlea Primary School flew the Union Jack whilst children and staff wore red, white and blue clothing to mark ten years of British involvement in Afghanistan as part of a campaign to honour the loyal service and enormous sacrifices made by our Armed Forces, their families and children. said, “we’re very proud of our links Westlea was the one hundredth military connections.” Amelia McGinlay, 8, did par- with the armed services and are school in Britain to sign up for Ten for Ten - the only one in Swindon - to ticularly well by raising £70. Living always conscious of the special pasfundraise for Help for Heroes and above The Harvester pub she had toral needs that present themselves the ABF, the Soldiers Charity. On 10 a captive audience. “I sold foot- at times when there is change and October children held a cake sale, ball scratch cards and everybody uncertainty in the lives of children and staff.” a raffle and sold Help for Heroes wanted to help,” she said. www.tenforten.co.uk Headteacher Suzanne Seaton merchandise. Year 3 organising teacher Alex O’Brien said, “there’s always en- Military links, staff Suzanne Seaton, Lesley Ponsonby and Alex O’Brien with colourthusiastic support for fundraising ful children Jack and Aaron Bradshaw, Amelia McGinley, Amma Ambwene, Lani at Westlea but everybody has been Dickinson, Lyndsey Logan, Fraser Bridgeman, Abbie Humphries touched by Ten for Ten because so many children and staff have close
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Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 1DY Main Switchboard: 01793 491591 Freephone: 0800 731 2250 Student Services: 01793 498308
1-20 November 11.indd 14
Academy takes a step up in status with help from Lydiard’s heritage As Greendown School makes the transition to become Lydiard Park Academy from September 2012, local historian Fran Bevan considers how the school name continues to draw upon the history of its neighbour. When it came to choosing a name for West Swindon’s secondary school before the first children arrived in 1986 the board of governors turned to the nearby Lydiard Park estate for inspiration. “We were looking for a short, memorable name that drew upon the landscape of West Swindon,” recalls Link publisher Roger Ogle, then chair of governors. “We had a map of old field names across West Swindon. The park was on the northern boundary and Greendown Copse was within 200 yards of the school’s fence to the west, it fitted the criteria well.” In the Victorian period the name Greendown appeared several times on the Tithe Map drawn up in 1841. There was a 23 acre field of pasture called Greendown on Windmill Leaze Farm, where the Kinchin family were tenants during the mid-19th Century. And on neighbouring Wick Farm there were fields of pasture called Greendown and Greendown Mead. Here tenant Jonas Clarke lived in unwedded bliss with Alice Pinnell and their large family. Poor Jonas had made an unfortunate mar-
riage in his youth and had to wait for his wife to die before he was free to marry Alice, his partner of more than thirty years. The couple eventually made it to the altar at St. Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze (in the park) on 2 June 1853. Greendown Community School qualified for academy status by being in the top 25 per cent of schools which was underpinned by a second successive ‘good’ Ofsted rating earlier this year. The governing body has taken the opportunity to make a break with the recent past with a new name and new logo based on the St John family coat of arms, drawing once again upon the heritage of its near neighbour, but this time upon a more illustrious path in history. The St John family fortunes declined after debts from horse racing. It is unlikely that the Lydiard Park Academy staff and governing body will gamble with the new found status of the school.
21/10/2011 10:30
OPEN EVENING
Wednesday 9 November 7.00pm - 9.00pm in the Sixth Form Centre We invite all students in North Wiltshire and Swindon who are considering furthering their education at Wootton Bassett and their parents to experience our purpose-built Sixth Form Centre and its outstanding facilities During the evening you will have the opportunity to discuss Sixth Form Life with course tutors and current members of our Sixth Form. Besides offering a wide range of A-Level courses, our outstanding international dimension, as awarded by the British Council, offers links and trips to ensure we are a proactive member of the global community. We are also proud to be able to offer BTEC Public Services, BTEC Fitness Instructor, Critical Thinking and EPQ courses.
What OFSTED says: “Sixth Form teaching is frequently outstanding in its pace and challenge”
What our students say: “The Sixth Form has many great facilities, the teachers are really friendly and there is a good atmosphere around the block” Year 12 Student
For further details contact: Mrs H Stubbs, Sixth Form Coordinator Wootton Bassett School, Lime Kiln, Wootton Bassett, SN4 7HG Tel: 01793 841905 Email: hst@woottonbassett.wilts.sch.uk
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Join us and share the Experience!
20/10/2011 16:18
16 swindonlink.com • November 2011
preschool gymnastics Swimming lessons in Swindon Pay as you go: Parent & Child Group £5 per session
where an early start makes a world of difference!
Duckling courses for toddlers 6 weeks at £36 Gain confidence, in a fun, safe learning environment A fully licenced ASA Swimming teacher in the water All sessions are 30 minutes A great opportunity to make new friends All lessons taught to the National Teaching Plan for Swimming Small family run business offering the personal touch
New nursery option with free transport offered to North parents
Deborah Baigent, a childminder regarded as outstanding by Ofsted, has opened a nursery in Kembrey Park and is looking for parents who need places for their children. Initially the North Swindon mum child, I am fully aware of the need wanted to extend her best practice for a new nursery in Priory Vale and by applying to open ‘Childcare on it was really disappointing that the Domestic Premises’ but was refused local council would not permit a by Swindon Council planners. She much needed provision to be set up. “But Oops-a-Daisy has become then applied to turn the never used office building at Redhouse Village very popular in a short time and Centre into a large nursery, after- I’m hoping to double capacity by school and holiday club but was January. I’m aware that the nursery told her plan would be refused due unit is not within walking distance which is why I now offer complito lack of parking provision. Not to be put off she was forced to mentary pick ups and drop offs for look further afield and has opened children throughout Priory Vale.” For details about a place contact Oops-a-Daisy Childcare at Pine Court, Kembrey Park. Deborah Deborah on 07867 502489 or 490893. said, “as a mum of a nursery aged www.oops-a-daisy-childcare.co.uk
Free space on offer to a toddler group organiser
For more details give us a call on 01793 493210 or 07825 441311 07920 012974 or email: info@swimsafeuk.co.uk
daily classes for the under 5’s
www.swimsafeuk.co.uk
www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk
01793 822262
Peatmoor Primary School is looking for parents and/or carers who would be interested in restarting a parent and toddler group in the community facilities at the school. The group that was established for about eight years did not continue when members’ children moved on to playgroup or nursery classes. Caroline Bowles at the school said, “this is an ideal opportunity for a new group of mums, dads and carers to use a well equipped facility. We have toys for children of different ages, bouncy chairs for babies and a small table for activities and snack time; it just needs people who want to get together and attract new members.” For details call Caroline on 887473, Monday to Friday, 9am to 3.30pm, during term time.
‘A Quality Education for a Lifetime of Opportunities’ Broad Hinton Church of England Primary School is a village school situated in a favourable rural area a few miles south-west of Swindon. We were founded in 1743 by Thomas Bennet and taken over by the LEA about 100 years later. Over recent years we have extended our facilities to accommodate four mixed-age classes, a large hall where hot meals are served, a multi-purpose unit housing a pre-school facility and a conservatory area for individual or small group teaching, including a multisensory learning library for parents and carers to access resources for learning at home. Everyone knows each other throughout the school, from the oldest to the very youngest, staff, parents and children alike, giving us a warm family atmosphere. Our professional and enthusiastic staff provide a safe and secure environment and a creative and stimulating curriculum.
We are able to accept children in Reception through to Year 2 and you are warmly invited to make an appointment to visit us. Please call Mrs E Floyd, Headteacher on 01793 731262 to arrange a time. www.broadhintonschool.org Positive comments about Broad Hinton Primary: ‘A good school which prides itself on the good care, support and guidance it provides for the pupils. Teachers provide stimulating activities that enthuse and excite the pupils’ ‘Pupils demonstrate very good levels of confidence and very good skills in independence, self-management and team work’ OFSTED July 2007 ‘The school is an incredibly caring community where pupils know how to give and ask for support. Parents feel valued and welcomed and there are good and effective links with the local church.’ Church of England Inspection July 2007
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20/10/2011 15:44
swindonlink.com • November 2011
The Gruffalo came to tea
17
A family run business offering One to One private tuition in English, Maths and Science.
Starting school was made easier for reception children at Abbey Meads Primary in early October when a big hairy scary monster joined them for tea.
For all ages and abilities from Primary (aged 5) to GCSE and A Level. Tutoring tailored to meet individual needs with no lengthy contracts. All tutors qualified to degree level. Tuition available in the comfort of your own home or at the homes of tutors Contact Andrea on 07887561762 or Helen on 07952177675 firstclasstuitionenquiries@gmail.com www.firstclasstuition.co.uk
Reception class teacher Donna Wright said The Gruffalo, the classic by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler, was the book that came up all the time when she and colleague Liz Arblaster made home visits during the Spring and Summer. “So many children said it was their favourite book that we thought it would be a good way to help the small children settle into a big, busy school.” The story told in rhyme describes a tiny mouse making his way through a dark wood avoiding being eaten by bigger creatures by telling them that he’s going to
1-20 November 11.indd 17
meet an imaginary creature, The Gruffalo. “It’s a story about growing up, not being afraid and having courage to take on big challenges,” said Liz. “The children wrote invitations to the Gruffalo to come to a tea party but we prepared them for the visit by arranging for him to appear the day before beyond the school fence. The children were besides themselves with excitement and were pleased when the Gruffalo came into the classroom and they were able to give him hugs.” See more pictures of the visit at http://bit.ly/amgruffalo
English, Mathematics and Science Fully qualified teachers Accelerated GCSE programme 11+ training and preparation Free assessment and first lesson Boost your child’s confidence
C N vo hild E W ac uc ca ce he re pt rs ed
20/10/2011 10:58
18 swindonlink.com • November 2011
Places at Oliver Tomkins Nursery
A quality start for pre-school children aged 3-4 years. Intake January, Easter & September To book your child‛s place call Lynda Nelson: 01793 870471
admin@olivertomkins-inf.swindon.sch.uk Enriched creative fun learning opportunities including baking, welly walks and Forest Schools. An exciting safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor classroom.
Pre-school places available Link & Learn Pre-school in the Link Centre will be offering care for 2 and 3 year olds on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons from 1.30pm to 4pm, starting on 9 January. Places are limited and the cost is £9 per 2.5 hour session. For details call the pre-school on 465464, Monday to Friday, between 9am and 12noon or mail: ann.hicks@linkandlearnpreschool.com Little Hands welcomes parents and carers with children under the age of two for a morning of play, structured activities, songs and stories on Mondays 10am to 11.30am in the Sunshine Room at Westlea Primary School, Langstone Way.
Turning waste things into play things
Healthy nutritious snacks daily
Part of Oliver Tomkins CE VA Infant & Junior School, Toothill
Swindon Children’s Scrapstore has started toddler arts and craft sessions for parents and carers at its new base in West Swindon.
Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & gardens Easy access and safe parking For information call: 01793 851495
www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS
Sessions are run in a dedicated art room and are organised in termly blocks led by art tutor Melanie Thompson, above, on Wednesdays 10am to 11.30am. The next set of sessions start on 9 November and will have a winter theme leading up to Christmas.
They cost £3 per child or £5 for two. Turn up and take part but booking is advisable on 513982. Scrapstore in now located at 5, Bridgemead Business Centre, Bridgemead Close, Westmead SN5 7AU. www.scrapstore.co.uk
✂
Headstarts Day Nursery Established 1990
Delta Business Park Westlea, West Swindon. Tel: 877779
Busy Bees are now offering more for your money...
The Children’s Centre at Robert le Kyng Westcott Street, Swindon. Tel: 484934 Moredon Children’s Centre Montrose Close, Moredon Tel: 01793 481080
Free nappies for under 2’s
• Open 7:30am-6pm, Monday to Friday • CCTV and secure access • ‘Busy Babies’ area • Bright, welcoming, well equipped play areas • Sensory room • Extra curricular activities • Fresh home cooked food
Book and start before the end of December and receive one weeks free childcare* *t&c’s apply For more information call Niki on 01793 726 919 Busy Bees Nursery, Highdown Way, St Andrew’s Ridge, Swindon SN25 4FD (previously Leapfrog Day Nursery) www.busybees.com
1-20 November 11.indd 18
Headstarts is a friendly, ‘family’ nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where every child benefits from individual attention. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑
Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £38.00 per day Funded child-care credits available.* Government Early Years funded nursery sessions to the value of £46.87 per week.*
✁
Come along to our Open Afternoons every Monday, 2-4pm
Free 15 hours a week flexible funding during term time for 3 and 4 year olds* For further information or to arrange a visit, call one of the centres above
SPECIAL OFFER FREE child care worth £50 with this advert*
www.headstartsnursery.co.uk
*Conditions apply
20/10/2011 10:58
swindonlink.com • November 2011
19
Ladies’ Beauty Day brings in bumper total
Despite worries that a Ladies’ Health and Beauty Fundraising Day at Steam on 17 September might not be a success because it was the first for organiser Tina Mason, and the fact that it clashed with the Baby Fair in another part of the museum, over 200 turned up to raise £1,460 for the Hop, Skip and Jump respite care centre at Upper Shaw Farm in West Swindon.
Swindon Yoga & Massage Centre Westmead Drive, Westlea
Located in Abbey Meads Large spacious playroom
6 week courses starting in November
Level 4 Practitioner/ 15+ Years Childcare experience
Family Yoga: Tuesdays from 15th, 3.45pm to 4.45pm
Dawn Jones OFSTED registered Childminder
Baby Massage: Wednesdays from 16th, 1pm to 2pm Gift vouchers available Contact Gayle: 07825 683440 innersmilemassage@gmail.com
Tel: 01793 704822 or 07760 117877 Email: dinkydinosaurs@hotmail.co.uk
Little Foxes Childcare & Education
Tina and organiser Sharon Smith present the cheque to Verity Brooke-Maples with volunteers and children, back Anjana Gurung, Ollie Samways, Tracey Carnan with Shayla Samways. Front from left, Kelly-Marie Givens, Benjamin Basson, Kate Cavanagh
Organiser, and mum of special needs daughter Scarlett, Tina was delighted by the response. “So many of the women who attended said they loved the relaxed atmosphere and the stall holders said it was the best event they had attended.” The total has been boosted by £600 donated by logistics company DHL where Tina’s husband Lee works. The money raised will be put towards buying equipment to set up a sensory area. Tina has already booked Steam for another, bigger, beauty day next Autumn. She paid the rent for the venue this time but is looking for business sponsors to help in 2012. Hop Skip and Jump plans to
open a purpose designed centre at Lydiard Park but the recession put paid to raising £1 million to build and equip it. However since opening at Upper Shaw Farm in July there has been an upsurge in fundraising activities. Manager Verity Brooke-Maple said, “now that we’re here and providing a service to children with disabilities and their parents, Hop Skip and Jump is capturing people’s imagination and there is huge support for us coming through. To sponsor the 2012 Ladies Beauty day mail Tina: mace@macetoons.co.uk • Christmas Gift Fair for Hop Skip and Jump on 19 November. See the advert on page 23.
Lighting up North Swindon
When children should have been settling down for the evening, on 18 October, about 80 of them were out on the streets with parents and carers carrying lanterns and waving banners for the annual North Swindon lantern parade led by the Swindon Samba Band. The Mayor of Swindon Ray Ballmen joined the parade from the library to Isambard Community School in Redhouse.
For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042
l An
independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years l Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year l Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds l High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses l Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about
ISTD - Ballet - Tap - Modern - Jazz Contemporary Street Jazz Musical Theatre & RAD Major Ballet bring this advert and get first two weeks free
Classes from 21/2 years upwards. Lessons held at: The Haydon Centre Haydonleigh School Abbeymeads Community School Blunsdon Village Halls
Tel: 07825 543529 or 01793 524112 Visit our website for more details: www.swindonacademyofdance.co.uk
1-20 November 11.indd 19
20/10/2011 15:47
20 swindonlink.com • November 2011
FOR ALL YOUR PRINT & DIGITAL REQUIREMENTS IN WEST SWINDON ARTWORK & DESIGN • WEBSITES LITHO / DIGITAL PRINTING LARGE FORMAT • CANVAS PRINTS STATIONERY • NCR PADS, AND MORE
Unicorn Child Therapy Is your child unhappy,depressed or difficult to live with? Experienced and highly qualified child and family therapists offer individual, art and equine psychotherapy.
Unit 101 Basepoint Centre Rivermead Swindon Wilts SN5 7EX Telephone: 01793 490490
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Contact 01793 762939 or 07800 602655 www.unicornchildtherapyservices.co.uk
Top Impressions We print on Hoodies • Polo shirts T-shirts • Mugs Jigsaws Design your own T-shirt
Tel: 07979 828700 ernie@topimpressions.co.uk www.topimpressions.co.uk
Link Ad NOV2010.pdf
1
See us at Asda in November & December 17/11/2010 09:35
Helping children improve their behaviour
Services for children with emotional and behavioural problems are now much more difficult to find due to cuts and changes in NHS policy and many worried parents struggling with unhappy or challenging children and adolescents are at a loss as to where to turn. Two very experienced child ther- tive approach to helping autistic apists have set up an independent children via equine psychotherapy, service, Unicorn Child Therapy, to a development from the US which is becoming more available in Britain. meet this need. Heather Redington has worked Art and child psychotherapist Susan Turner has over 20 years as a therapist with troubled children experience in helping children, both and their families in the NHS for in the NHS and in private practice. more than 20 years. She has trained She has helped many children in the UK and US and is especially through art and play to overcome interested in helping both adults behavioural and relationship and children overcome the effects difficulties and to develop their of trauma of all kinds, including domestic violence, bullying, and potential. Recently, Susan has worked with serious accidents and assaults. For an exploratory talk, or to book autistic children and their families on Horse Boy camps, based on the an appointment, contact Susan on work of Rupert Isaacson whose 07800 60 26 55 or Heather on 762939. book and film describe this innova- See the Unicorn advert on the left.
Creative art therapy courses on offer Angela Goldenlight is offering one day workshops and a foundation course in art psychotherapy at Swindon Scrapstore to develop skills, whilst discovering that all kinds of waste materials can be re-purposed in creative and practical ways. The aim is to understand the therapeutic benefits of creative arts to develop positive relationships and engage children, young people and vulnerable adults; promote social inclusion and social cohesion; raise self-esteem and confidence through creative play For details of workshop days and the foundation course call Angela on 07966 151932 or mail Scrapstore manager Olivia McCann: olivia@ scrapstore.co.uk
Every night in December we are offering our Eat & Drink deal to all of our customers.
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*This offer maybe withdrawn at anytime without notice. Terms Apply
1-20 November 11.indd 20
21/10/2011 14:45
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A new era for consumers and business is only a click away
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Free Big Arts Day is just amazingly good
Business backing needed to make 2012 event outstanding In just two years Swindon Big Arts Day (BAD) has become the town’s premier free cultural festival, celebrating all that is artistic and creative in the town. The first ever BAD event at Lydiard Park in 2010 attracted over 20,000 people and this July numbers grew by a half, with around 30,000 enjoying performances and children’s activities on stages and in tents, as well as roaming performances throughout the park. Swindon Council’s head of culture Helen Miah said, “Big Arts Day is first and foremost a festival for Swindon delivered by Swindon with fantastic talent from local schools, dance academies, bands, solo singers, community choirs and theatre groups. “And it ended with what people said were the biggest and best fireworks ever seen in Swindon, set against the lake at Lydiard Park.” Summer 2012 will have special Olympic resonance, but in these tough financial times, organisers need business support to help them to make BAD even better than ever.
advert; logo exposure and link from the BAD website; and banner display space at the festival. Sponsor group membership is offered at £1,000 (plus VAT) until 31 December. All members will be entered into a draw to become the festival headline sponsor Stagecoach Arts performers at BAD 2010 to receive enhanced Helen added that Swindon will promotion on festival publicity. To join contact event coordinajoin a major South West arts ‘Battle for the Winds’ project linked to the tor Tracy White via: swindondoeOlympic sailing venue in Weymouth. sarts@swindon.gov.uk or call “Ideas are at a very early stage but 465335. its about projecting what a great place Swindon is through its wide ranging artistic activity.” At a breakfast meeting for potential business sponsors, Swindon Council leader Rod Bluh said, “Swindon doesn’t get the recognition it deserves for the quality of its arts activities, nor the large scale events that take place here.” Members of the Big Arts Day 2012 sponsors’ group will benefit from: their company logo printed on the sponsors page in the festival programme, and a quarter page
If you have a business and you are interested in joining the scheme, call Trading Standards
01793 466155
Monday 6.30pm - 7.30pm Eastrop Infant School, Highworth Monday 8.00pm - 8.50pm Red Oaks Primary School, Redhouse Tuesday 6.30pm - 7.20pm The Commonweal School, Old Town Thursday 6.30pm - 7.30pm The Commonweal School, Old Town
For enquiries call Claudia on 07933 793851 or email: latin5.claudia@hotmail.co.uk
Last few days to view The Post Office in Pictures
The British Postal Museum & Archive (BPMA) Post Office in Pictures exhibition, showcasing iconic photographs from its collection, some of which have never previously been seen by the public runs until 5 November at the Post Modern Gallery in Theatre Square, Swindon. The Mayor of Swindon Ray Ballman opening the exhibition in early October with Adrian Steel, director of the British Postal Museum & Archive
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Swindon Wide
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Free mini-masterpiece magnets to make the town brighter
Can you get more out of digital?
When Chris Milne of Blackthorn School of Photography started advertising photography courses in The Link over five years ago, film was still drawing to doodling, in use but diminishing, as the quality of digital cameras was rising and The Swindon Magnetpainting to photog- the costs tumbling. izer Project is looking Now everybody uses digital, bil- confidence in the studio and outraphy, sculpture to for small original piecsewing - however you lions of shots are taken, but the doors. es of art to be attached And, just as important nowacreate your work, the question is, are they any good and to magnets and disdays, students will learn how to project would love to could photographers do better? played in November Having completed a refurbish- enhance and manipulate images hear from you.” and December. She added that ment of the Blackthorn school using Photoshop and other comProject organiser A magnetic artpiece she’s hoping for a near Purton, including consider- puter software. Sarah Checksfield to be displayed Chris said, “photography is just wide ranging collec- able investment in new, faster hopes for at least 160 submissions to be displayed tion but as the pieces will be dis- equipment, Chris and fellow tu- as creative as it ever was, but the outdoors on metal surfaces in the played in public, they need to be tors are in a much better position huge change has been the control town’s cultural quarter between the family friendly. However the number to help photographers understand you now have to do almost what Wyvern Theatre and the Town Hall of places is limited and artists must and utilise the full capabilities of you want on your own computer. The opportunity to show off your their equipment. Studios. The exhibition starts on 26 live in Swindon. Beginners’ courses cover the work at a reasonable cost is now The project has received funding November, from 12.30pm. camera and its controls and using greater as well - both online at What’s interesting is that not only from Swindon Does Arts To participate return the form it as a creative tool. Students learn gallery sites, and on paper in alare the public encouraged to view the magnets, they can take one at www.swindonmagnetizer.co.uk about light and composition and bums, prints as well as on cards, There is no charge to enter and explore techniques needed to pro- mugs and wall decoration. Online home to display on their fridge. Sarah said, “this is an amazing you will even receive a ‘thank you’ duce quality images with a mini- is great but nothing beats a beautiful print.” mum of manipulation afterwards. opportunity for the creative of all magnet of your work. See www.photography-courses. For the more advanced photogFor information, assistance, levels and persuasions to get their art on show to the wider public and guidance or encouragement, mail: rapher, courses look at lighting, com for details of the weekend and composition and poses to build midweek courses on offer. There’s contribute to making Swindon a sarahc300@gmail.com still time to book one to enhance brighter place. your technique before Christmas “I’m hoping for mini-masterpieces Posh Frock Swap in aid of Walk the Walk or make an early booking for the from professionals, amateurs, newly qualified, retired and budding art- Sunday 6 November, 6pm; Broome Manor Golf Club, Pipers Way New Year. See the site also for details of ists; anyone of any age who’d like Beat the credit crunch - find a new outfit for your Christmas party gift vouchers that a beginner or a to see their work displayed in this Tickets £10, incl finger buffet and glass of sparkling wine more advanced photographer will unusual fashion and have their art Call 07708 110629 for tickets www.walkthewalk.org appreciate. on someone else’s fridge. From
s l ia on ult c i e s d r ns Sp mis r a fo ssio e fo 0 ad 0 .0 nce fre o 1 .0 £ c go £2 anden &r 3s r e ild nd h c U
3 and 4 December 2011, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2TA Get your fill of seasonal shopping and musical entertainment as you experience the magic of STEAM this Christmas. You’ll find a fantastic array of unique market stalls offering fine gifts plus scrumptious confectionery and fayre.
STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway
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There’s also the chance to meet Santa in his Grotto for a small extra charge. For more details call 01793 466637
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Swindon Wide
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Free science talks to fire the imagination
How do you collect cosmic dust? Could you really use a banana as a hammer? What was Galileo like? These and other fascinating questions will be answered by the new season of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)’s popular Talking Science lectures. The series of fast-moving, Thursday 8 December, 7pm: Gali- strong track record of reaching out thought-provoking public talks in leo. Join Galileo in his exploration to younger audiences. Robin Clegg, STFC’s Head of SciSwindon are delivered by scientists of the world around us as he tries who are not only experts in their to find out what phenomena had a ence in Society said, “these events fields but also inspirational com- scientific basis - and then discovers give the public a unique insight into that everything was affected by sci- cutting-edge science and life as a municators. They are held in the lecture the- ence. A thought provoking lecture scientist.They consistently succeed atre at Polaris House, North Star which leaves one in no doubt why in inspiring and enthusing people Avenue SN2 1SZ and attendance this great rebellious man was such with a desire to learn more – and in is free of charge, although prior a thorn in the side of the authorities. some cases even to pursue a career registration is essential - online at Talking Science has an especially in science themselves”. For more information see www. www.stfc.ac.uk/4796.aspx or by stfc.ac.uk/13793 calling 442092. Thursday 17 November, 7pm: The Secrets of Dark Matter. Deep underground, in a working potash mine in the north east of England, STFC’s Sean Paling and his team are searching for Dark Matter. If most of the Universe is made up of Dark Matter, why is it so difficult to detect?
BOTH OPEN 2PM TO 4PM Local handmade crafts and gifts Refreshments & home-made cakes Free admission For more information email: claresaunders@ntlworld.com
Get ahead of the rush & find unique & individual Christmas gifts for the little ones in your life! 40 exhibitors selling their unique & handmade products from toys, kids fashion, photography, personalised gifts & much, much more.....
When re? and Whe
11 ember 20 19th Nov pm Saturday 30 3: 10:30am EGE OD COLL NOVA HRE Way Akers SN2 2NQ Swindon
Refreshments & Entertainment available
Advocating justice that works
Tony Aldridge, the Restorative Justice Co-ordinator of the Swindon Youth Offending Team will talk about real experiences and former barrister and South Swindon MP Robert Buckland will explain what the government is doing to encourage the greater use of non-custodial sentences and the place of restorative justice. The meeting is free to attend. For details mail Paul Sunners, paul. sunners@btinternet.com
Advertising Feature
Go creative before Christmas
Christmas is on the horizon, but not too close to prevent you adding your personal touch by creating your own Christmas cards and paper related gifts. Sparkle Dreams at Studley Grange Craft Village, near Wroughton gives you the chance to create unique items, with full guidance and encouragement. Swindon’s premier paper crafting specialist offers a fantastic range of unique products for the card maker and scrap booker at their beautiful shop. Workshops are run twice a week for both beginners and those who already love paper crafting, plus and we have a lovely social time over Saturday classes and special tea or coffee and biscuits.” Pupils can make cards and also classes for children during the gifts, such as mini-albums using six school holidays. Owner Solance Scholey, right, of your own photos, a super Christsaid, “each class lasts two to three mas present for anybody you love. See the range of courses on offer hours, with between 8 to 12 participants who receive lots of attention, at http://sparkle-dreams.blogspot. and all materials are included. The com or contact Solance on 979101, classes all take place in the morning mail:solance@studleygrange.co.uk
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Saturday 12th November Cricklade Town Hall Saturday 3rd December Lydiard Village Hall
Christmas Gift Fair
Professor Brian Cox with Caitlin and Ian Platt from Blunsdon when he spoke at a STFC talk in 2010
Swindon Quakers are organising a public meeting on Friday 18 November, 7pm, to discuss whether restorative justice is the best way to change the way wrong doers are punished so that they ‘do justice’ themselves, rather than ‘simply having it done to them.’ Tim Newell, former governor of Grendon Prison, will introduce and chair the meeting which will be held at the Pilgrim Centre, Regent Circus, Swindon
Christmas Craft & Gift Fayres
• Cupcakes • Face Painting • Bouncy Castle • Debutots Storytime Workshops
Entry £1 ) (Kids Free
Proudly supporting
07725 722 540 www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
Think of all the houses you’ve ever visited. Take that thought and imagine it as a scaled down version that you can enjoy for years to come. At Doll’s House Workshops you can bring your dream house to life, one twelfth scale! We don’t just sell the houses, we help create them, with houses coming in easy to build kit form which you can assemble in our workshop. Take your time to find the wallpaper, carpets, furniture, accessories, lighting and even front gardens that bring your house to life. Whether you prefer the classic lines of a Regency House, a Victorian House by the sea or the timeless beauty of an English Country Cottage, Doll’s House Workshop will help you build your dream home. And you won’t even have to worry about a mortgage!
The Dolls House Workshop are currently stock products from the following suppliers: • Sally Reader Minitures • Bodo Henning Miniatures - new extended range • Dolls House Emporium houses and furniture • Dolls House Parade Miniature Flowers
• Dolls House Workshop houses • Heidi Ott quality Miniatures • Little Trimmings Haberdashery • Reutter Porcelain - new extended range
One of the biggest selections in the South West
Tel: 01793 854606
• Sid Cooke Houses • Streets Ahead Houses and Furniture • Wanham Furniture
Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park, Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9QT Junction 16 (1/2 mile towards Wroughton) Tel: 01793 852400 • www.studleygrange.co.uk.
INSPIRE, CREATE SPARKLE & DREAM Welcome to Sparkle Dreams Swindon’s premier paper crafting specialists. Situated in the beautiful Studley Grange Craft Village, we offer a fantastic range of unique products for the card maker and scrapbooker; as well as teaching a wide selection classes for all age groups. Our knowledgable staff are enthusiasts in paper crafting and are happy to help with any of your queries.
Top Name Brands Such as: • Scrapbooking • Cardmaking • Modern Papercrafting Specialists • Classes For Adults & Children • Classes Run At Weekends & Weekdays
• Magnolia • Sizzix • Spellbinders • Ranger & Tim Holtz
We are the only local suppliers of Magnolia products, Copic pens, Sugar Nellie Stamps and many other superb specialist products.
Tel: 01793 855472 Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park, Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9QT Junction 16 (1/2 mile towards Wroughton) Tel: 01793 852400 • www.studleygrange.co.uk.
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& NAILS
UNISEX S A LO N
Chairs for rent £75 01793 480448 5 Moredon Road, Swindon
Win free entry to The Festive Gift Fair, one of Britain’s biggest Christmas shopping events 17 to 20 November 9.30am to 5pm The NEC, Birmingham We have ten sets of four tickets to be won thanks to the organisers. All you have to do is tell us where this year’s Festive Fair is taking place. Send your entry to the address on page 4 by 5 November.
Fun is Bow-shaped! If you are looking for something a bit different why not try the Black Cat Archery Experience? With a variety of ranges, styles and targets, everyone from the seasoned archer to the absolute beginner will find something to enjoy at our specially designed archery centre.
Music
Swindon Wide What’s
Monday 7th, 8pm Jon Allen Band. One of indie’s success stories returns with a brand new album. £14. Arts Centre Thursday 10th, 8pm Keith James in Concert: performing the songs of legendary Leonard Cohen. £14. Arts Centre Friday 11th, 8pm Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo. Emily Barker is a compelling songwriter with a gift for weaving melody and words. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 17th, 7.3pm The Magic of Motown. Authentically recreated harmonies, slick moves, stylish looks and legendary musicianship that were the making of Motown fresh from the O2 arena. £23. Wyvern Friday 18th, 7.30pm Sensational 60s Experience. A quintessential 60s line-up packed with nostalgia. £23. Wyvern Saturday 19th, 7.30pm
www.blackcatarchery.com
We are at Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Swindon, Wilts SN6 7QS
Christmas at Roves Farm
Visit Father Christmas Dress up & Take part in our Unique, Traditional Nativity Plays with the Farm Animals! See Mary & Joseph in the Stable Children's Glittery Christmas Craft Indoor Farm Animals & Adventure Play Areas
For More Info & Opening Times See Website
www.rovesfarm.co.uk 21-48 November 11.indd 24
Wednesday 2nd to Saturday 5th
Chess presented by Theatre Ink with lyrics by Tim Rice. The Cold War, an ill-mannered American and an intense Russian, a world chess championship .. and a woman who manages one and falls in love with another. £11, book tickets on 790431. Arts Centre Saturday 26th, 7.30pm Beyond the Barricade. West End and Broadway musical hit songs including a spectacular finale from Les Miserables. £20.50. Wyvern
Talks
All Equipment & Tuition Provided Safe Environment Corporate and group events Special parties for 5yrs & older A great time comes as standard! Clubs on site; Target, Field and Medieval For more information, to arrange a meet or contact Andrew on: Andrew@blackcatarchery.com or 07809 729260
Musical
Last Night of the Proms concert presented by Swindon Rotary Clubs featuring a wealth of local talent performing in aid of Swindon Cares and Hop Skip & Jump respite care centre. £16 Wyvern Thursday 24 & Friday 25th, 7.30pm Essence of Ireland. A breath-taking show of brilliant choreography, superb musicianship and dazzling costumes. £25.50. Wyvern Friday 25th, 7.30pm Jazz in the Church in aid of Friends of Angel’s Orphanage. Craig Milverton, voted ‘Jazz Pianist of 2010’ will play hot and funky music on his organ accompanied by tenor sax player Ian Ellis, guitarist Neil Burns and drummer Coach York. £10, tickets from 764979 or Lighthouse Bookshop Highworth and Swindon Information Centre. St Michaels Church, Highworth Saturday 26th, 7.30pm Wessex Male Choir Concert in aid of the British Heart Foundation. The choir will be joined by pupils from St. Lawrence Primary School and the choir from Farmors Secondary School. £10, tickets include a glass of mulled wine/soft drink and are available from Lechlade Newsagents or by calling 01367 253762. St. Lawrence Church, Lechlade Sunday 27th, 4pm & 8pm Kentwood Christmas Cracker featuring Kentwood’s Senior, Youth and Junior choirs together with the Albourne Band. £11; mince pie and mulled wine £2. Wyvern
Friday 4th, 7.30 pm. The Swindon Collection. Denys Hodson, Thamesdown Council head of Arts in the 1980s, draws on his pivotal role in building one of the finest collections of 20th Century British art in the country and considers its future. £4.50. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Wednesday 16th, 6.30pm for 7pm Tribal. A talk to accompany the exhibition at Post Modern Gallery, see below Sunday 20th, 7.30pm Charley Boorman. The actor, adventurer and author takes a break from travelling to bring an evening of personal stories, and tales of adventure £17.50. Wyvern Friday 25th, 7.30pm The Marlborough Bibles. Simon McKeown, keeper of antique books at Marlborough College will talk about the college catalogue of antiquarian bibles, bringing along some of the rarer items. £4.50. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery
Exhibition
Until Saturday 5th, Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm. The Post Office in Pictures. Free. Post Modern Gallery. see page 21. Until Saturday 5th Exhibition of 100 photographs by members of the Western Region of The Royal Photographic Society including images by RPS Gold Medal winners Rosemary Wilman Hon FRPS and Peter McCloskey APAGB FRPS. West Swindon Library, Link Centre Friday 11th to Saturday 19th, Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm Tribal. A selection of tribal and contemporary art from a private collection. Free. Post Modern Gallery. Accompanying talk on 16th. See above.
21/10/2011 10:31
On in November Children & Family
Saturdays 5th & 19th, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges, STEAM Saturday 5th, 10am, 1pm, 4pm; Sunday 6th, 10am & 1pm Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt. Join Peppa Pig and her friends on a day of adventure. £13.50 to £15.50; concessions £2 off; family £54. Wyvern Tuesday 22nd to Saturday 26th, 7pm & Sat matinee 2pm Mother Goose, a traditional pantomime with comedy and song presented by Stage Struck. £10.50, for tickets call 840757. Arts Centre
Nova Hreod College, Akers Way Saturday 5 November, 10am - 12noon
www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Free Light Party Sunday 30 October, 5pm to 7pm All ages welcome but children must be accompanied to this alternative to Halloween, with bright clothes and no scary costumes. Free entry, but numbers limited to first 150 people. Bring refreshments to share (no alcohol).
Dance
Tuesday 1st, 7.30pm Declarations. Four diverse dance works presented by Phoenix Dance Theatre. £11 - £16. Wyvern
Theatre
Wednesday 16th to Saturday 19th, 7.30pm Keep an Eye on Amelie presented by The Western Players. All the classic elements of a French farce - events spiral out of control in this hilarious adaptation. £7, for tickets call 07575 711522. Arts Centre
Film
Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join on at any film showing
21-48 November 11.indd 25
Comedy
Thursday 3rd, 8pm Tommy Tiernan. Through hilarious story-telling and a high-energy non apologetic delivery Tommy continually challenges his audience. £18. Wyvern Friday 4th, 8pm Rob Brydon, multi-award winning actor, writer, comedian and presenter, known for his warmth, humour and inspired impressions. £15. Wyvern Tuesday 8th, 7.30pm Al Murray with Barrel of Fun Extra. £26.50. Wyvern Wednesday 9th, 7.30pm Joe Pasquale. £17.50. Wyvern Saturday 12th, 8pm Chris Cox: Fatal Distraction. Using a mix of techniques including magic, psychology and lying Chris Cox amazes, doing things no human should be able to do. £12. Arts Centre Tuesday 15th, 8pm Lee Nelson with his Well New Tour. Adults only. £23.50. Wyvern Wednesday 16th, 8pm Omid Djalili back on tour with a brand new show. £19. Wyvern Monday 21st, 8pm Mark Watson with his most personal, most surprising and funniest show yet. £17.50. Wyvern Tuesday 22nd, 8pm Jerry Sadowitz, comedian and magician promises to reduce the contents of your wallet and stir up some trouble. Adults only. £19. Wyvern We d n e s d ay 23rd, 8pm Reginald D Hunter in Sometimes Even The Devil Tells The Truth. £21. Oasis Wednesday 30th, 8pm Jason Byrne. Jason’s inspired original brand of high-energy intelligent lunacy ensures there is no other comedian like him. £16. Wyvern
Venues
Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House Lydiard Park Tel: 770401 The Post Modern Gallery Theatre Square SN1 1QN Roves Farm Sevenhampton Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939
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HOME VISITS AVAILABLE
e-motion_ad_winter_p4p.pdf
1
17/10/2011
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CYCLE THROUGH THE WINTER WITH OUR ELECTRIC BIKES AND CYCLING ACCESSORIES Visit our showroom and come for a test ride today!
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Wednesday 9th, 7.45pm Of Gods and Men (15). Inspired by true events at a French monastery in Algeria in 1996, this Cannes Festival winner is a spellbinding drama exploring courage and faith. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 30th, 7.45pm Oranges and Sunshine (15). A compassionate and moving investigative drama about the forced UK to Australia child migration in the 1950s and how a Nottingham social worker exposed the scandal. SFS. Arts Centre
25
STEAM Kemble Drive. Tel: 466637 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Information Centre Central Library. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road, Old Town. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue
www.e-motionevc.co.uk 373 Cricklade Road, Swindon SN2 1AQ · 01793 251200
20/10/2011 15:56
Swindon Wide What’s On in November
26
Fundraising
Rendezvous Special For Two Ends 20 November
1/4 Aromatic Crispy Duck OR Barbecue Ribs, Crispy Seaweed & Mini Vegetable Spring Rolls Choose 3 Dishes of your choice from our selection: Sweet & Sour Chicken (HK Style) Beef with Green Peppers in Black Bean Sauce Prawns with Ginger & Spring Onions Spicy Salt & Garlic Chicken Lemon Chicken Chicken Curry Shredded Chilli Beef Satay Roast Pork ★★★ Egg Fried Rice, Prawn Crackers & Fortune Cookies £18.88 (Menu Price £26.15)
Saturday 5 November 10am to 4.30pm Craft Show Pyrography, cross stitch, embroidery, knitting, silver jewellery, wood turning, scarves, bead jewellery, watches and hand crafted cards Village Hall, Station Road, Purton Organised by Purton and Lydiard Charity Fund For further details call Lynda Warren on 771453, or email lynda.warren@hotmail.co.uk Friday 11 November 6.30pm to 8:30pm Christmas Fayre Lots of Christmas stalls with festive food & drink Free entry, children welcome Abbey Meads Primary School Saturday 12 November 12noon to 5pm Health Beauty and Wellbeing Day Taster sessions: reiki, massage, reflexology, shiatsu, accupressure, manicures, pedicures, facials and many more therapies Entrance fee, £2, & raffle in aid of Gynae C – Womens Cancer Support Group Social Hall, Drove Peoples Campus, Southampton Street SN1 3AH For details call Erica Smith: 340271 Saturday 12 November 10am to 1pm Table Top, Craft Fayre, Boot Sale The Dome Community Centre Burghley Close, Walcot For details call 642368 Saturday 12 November, 10am to 3pm Craft Fair. Arts Centre
NEW
See the website for the complete selection of Quorn Dishes
New Christmas Special Menu available from 21st November See website for details
Tel: 01793 703388 Unit 2 Elstree Way, Abbey Meads SN25 4YX DELIVERY OR TAKE AWAY OPEN: Sun - Thur 4.45pm - 11.15pm; Fri & Sat 4.45pm - 11.45pm Last orders for delivery 15 minutes before closing time. Open Every Bank Holiday
Licenced to sell and deliver wine and beer
See our full menu at: www.rendezvous.uk.net
21-48 November 11.indd 26
Wednesday 16 November 7pm to 9pm Fundraising social evening in aid of Haydonleigh PTA Lots of stallholders and beauticians, music, tarot, raffle Entry £3, includes a drink Haydonleigh Primary School Friday 25 November, 3pm to 6pm Christmas Fayre Lots of stalls for adults & children Father Christmas in his grotto Lydiard Millicent Primary School Saturday 26 November 10am to 1pm Animal Charities Christmas Bazaar Many animal charity stalls, tombola, bric-a-brac, refreshments Admission 20p St. Barnabas Church Hall, Gorse Hill Sunday 27 November 11am to 4pm The Commonweal School Christmas Craft Market Crafts, gifts and produce stalls, Santa’s Grotto, cafe, festive music Legal Advice Clinic from solicitors Fullagar Brooks Millikin - a twenty minute session for a £10 donation to the PTA. For details call 777007 The Mall, Old Town
Join the Mayor of Swindon for her Christmas Party in aid of the Mayor’s charities
TRY OUR VEGETARIAN QUORN DISHES
Vegetarian Hor d’oeuvres For Two Deep Fried Smoked Shredded Quorn, Crispy Seaweed Mini Vegetable Spring Rolls & Deep Fried Mushrooms (served with Sweet & Sour Sauce) £10
Saturday 12 November 2pm to 5pm Craft Fair Quality craft items, homemade cakes and have-a-go activities. Refreshments, all welcome St Mary’s Church, Rodbourne Church Hall, Cheney Manor Road
Quiz Night & Chilli Supper Friday 18 November, 7.30pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings St, Rodbourne Tickets: £10; cons. £5; under 12s £2 For advance tickets call 495073
Wednesday 14 December, 7.30pm til late Bushwackers, Fleet Square Buffet and live music from Ray Lewis and the Drifters Tickets £15 from Sally Smith. Call 463412 or mail: ssmith3@swindon.gov.uk
New exercise classes Bollywood Dancing for beginners Catherine Wayte Primary School, Elstree Way, Abbey Meads SN25 4TA Every Wednesday, 16 November to 14 December, 7pm to 8pm. Adults only. Two new Zumba classes St Francis C of E Primary School, Aiken Road, Taw Hill SN25 1UH Every Thursday, 10 November to 15 December, 7.30pm to 8.30pm. St Luke’s School, Cricklade Road SN2 7AS Every Tuesday, 1 November to 6 December, 7pm - 8pm. The price for each course is £25 which is non-refundable. For further details call Lisa on 07778 509490 or Sandra on 07909 590940. www.evolve2.org.uk
21/10/2011 10:31
Swindon Wide
Singer Frankie follows her dreams
A Brinkworth-based singersongwriter, who used to attend Westlea Primary School, is showing exceptional talent and has recently released a new track. At just 15 years old Frankie Le-Bon has a portfolio of original songs and has recorded her song Drowning with Realm Productions. Father Jon said, “Frankie enjoyed performing from an early age, and attended the Patricia Read School of Speech and Drama from the age of four. “As a teenager she taught herself to play acoustic guitar and her deep love of singing became more dominant. She started to cover some chart hits, but with each song she mastered, her version reflected her own specific interpretation of both the music and lyrics. “She started to write her own music and we immediately knew she had quite a special talent when one Christmas we found ourselves unable to stop humming the first original song she performed for us.” Frankie’s songs are all available to buy on itunes. www.frankielebon.co.uk
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Win two tickets to see former Oasis frontman play the Oasis Thanks to the promoters we’re able to offer a pair of tickets worth £55 to see Liam Gallagher’s new band Beady Eye on Tuesday 15 November. See entry details at
www.swindonlinkcom
Christ Church 160th Birthday Celebration Dinner Steam Museum, Kemble Drive Friday 4 November, 7pm for 7.30pm (carriages at 1am) For 160 years, Christ Church’s familiar 150 foot spire has sat high above Old Town providing an impressive beacon for Swindon – and a guide for RAF Lyneham aircraft. The celebration three-course supper, hosted by the Bishop of Swindon, Lee Rayfield, will include a fashion show by bridal store Trousseaux and a hair fashion demonstration by awardwinning Swindon stylist, Steven Goldsworthy. Music from the Nathan Jones’ All Stars Jazz Band. See ticket details at www.christchurchswindon.co.uk/tickets
Wootton Bassett teen is new Disney pop star
Shannon Saunders has been selected as the tenth official Disney Princess, Rapunzel, performing at a star-studded celebration in front of a global audience on 2 October at Kensington Palace. The seventeen year old first rose to fame when she won Disney Channel’s biggest search for a new music star in My Camp Rock 2 in September 2010, picked from hundreds of hopefuls to become the viewers’ champion. Already a YouTube hit sensation, the Wiltshire starlet went on to record the official theme to hit Disney 3D animation Tangled, in which Rapunzel makes her onscreen debut. The movie, featuring Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi, has grossed $588 million in the global box office and saw Shannon Saunders on TV screens in the accompanying music video. Read the full story at http://bit. ly/slshannon
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Beautiful • Oak • Pine • Futons • Painted Furniture Plus: Many lovely accessories for your home
Open: Mon to Sat 9.30am – 5.30pm Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm Willoby's Furniture Co. 34 Wood Street Old Town Swindon Wiltshire SN1 4AB
Tel: 01793 693696 info@willobysfurniture.co.uk www.willobysfurniture.co.uk
21/10/2011 10:41
Swindon Wide
28
the bigger picture
Dignity and quietness at Wootton Bassett
Reflecting on conflict in poety
The visit by the Princess Royal on 16 October to bestow Letters Patent Poems written and read by serving soldiers who have experienced batupon Wootton Bassett - only the third town in history to be accorded the tle in Afghanistan, and those who bear witness to the aftermath of war, title Royal- was marked by a quiet dignity and respect, and indeed sadness. were read to an invited audience before the Princess Royal presented the losses that this the Letters Patent to Royal Wootton Bassett. Some 14,000 peocountry's operational ple gathered on both responsibilities have sides of the High Street forced upon us." to view the arrival of Addressing the VIPs including an uncrowd the town’s expected visit by the mayor Paul Heaphy Prime Minister David said it was not a day Cameron and new Defor celebration and the fence Secretary of two Royal status was redays Philip Hammond. ceived with a sense of They heard Prinsadness. “We did not cess Anne express Photo: Jodie Henderson her feelings for the town which has ask for recognition and we find the honoured the repatriation of 355 attention rather humbling. We hope servicemen and women who have when people see the road signs they will pause and remember why we died in Iraq and Afghanistan are Royal, and, in As honorar y doing so, rememcommandant of ber the brave men RAF Lyneham and women of our she said she was forces.” touched how peoT h e d ay i n ple had turned cluded a military out to witness the marchpast, the cortege of seven blessing of a new crew who were coat of arms and killed in a Hercules a new flag for the crash in 2005 in town which now Afghanistan. She said Wootton Bassett was being features a Royal lion, plus a flypast recognised for the way it had hon- by an RAF Globemaster and the oured those who had fallen since familiar Hercules which has now then, describing it as “a town rich departed Lyneham, as well as the in tradition, secure in itself and its last Vulcan bomber. • See pictures by Jodie Henderson sense of values.” She added, "I am privileged to be and Richard Wintle at www.swinallowed to add my thanks to those donlink.com of Her Majesty the Queen and the • Images and impressions of the whole country for the example day by Deborah Coleman can also you set in respecting with dignity be found at www.swindonlink.com
SWINDON CYCLES
Superstore
With 250 bikes on show including electric bikes The price is right The parking is free
one
Bikes to suit every Parts, repairs, accessories, back up stock Open: Mon to Sat, 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays - riding our bikes!
Tel: (01793) 700105
The poems have been brought together in a book entitled Enduring Freedom: an Afghan Anthology, published by Fire Step Publishing in support of Combat Stress. Lone Chime, written by Nova Hreod pupil Jodie Henderson, 15, from Haydon Wick, and published in the August Link, has been included. She expressed her thoughts when on work placement with the maga-
zine after she attended the repatriation of Highlander Scott McLaren on 15 July with photographer Richard Wintle of Calyx multimedia. Former poet laureate Sir Andrew Motion has written the foreword for the collection which is available in bookshops and from online retailers. Or contact Tommies Guides on 0845 475 1945. www.tommiesguides.co.uk
Lydiard Park Field of Remembrance
For the second year the Royal British Legion is creating the Royal Wootton Basssett Field of Remembrance in tribute to all those who have served in our armed forces and are no longer with us, within the Walled Garden at Lydiard Park. It will be open on Friday 11 November with a two minute silence and the last post from Royal British Legion buglers.The field will be open until Sunday 20 November. St Mary’s Church at Lydiard Park, will be leading an Act of Reflection on each day the Field of Remembrance is open. Rev Clive Deverell at St Mary’s said, “from Saturday 12 to Sunday 19 November at 11am we will stop and pause, remember and reflect.” On Sunday 20 November, the final On Sunday 13 November, St Mary’s 10am morning service will open day, as the sun sets St Mary’s end in the Walled Garden with an will close the Field of Remembrance with a short service at 3.30pm. Act of Remembrance.
Rockin for charity in Royal Wootton Bassett
DEPOSIT RESERVES FOR CHRISTMAS
60a Beechcroft Road, SN2 6QD Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown
www.swindoncycles.co.uk
21-48 November 11.indd 28
Jodie with Ryan Gearing, publisher of Enduring Freedom: an Afghan Anthology, and Maurice Barker, chair of Royal Wootton Bassett Royal British Legion
A community project involving hundreds of people in Wootton Bassett has recorded a cover of Green Day’s Wake Me Up When September Ends in aid of four military charities, to be released at the end of October The recording took place at St Bartholomew’s Church in Wootton Bassett involving local singers, musicians and the town’s choir, then mixed at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studio in Box. The video of people singing on a closed off Wootton Bassett High Street was shot in September. The organisers hope one of the big recording companies will take on the project to boost sales for the charities. Could it be the Christmas number 1? Keep up to date with developments at www.woottonbassettrocks.co.uk
21/10/2011 14:51
Swindon Wide
Dressability ready to help heroes
Swindon-based charity Dressability which adapts clothing for people with disabilities, has recently begun talks with Help for Heroes about how it can assist soldiers who have been disabled after service in Iraq and Afghanistan by providing them with clothing tailored for their needs.
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Major Smith with the Mayor of Swindon Ray Ballman, Dressability manager Sian Barrie, trustee Louise Summerton and chairman Neil Jonsson
At the charity’s annual general meeting in October members heard Major Peter Smith from Tedworth House, the Help for Heroes funded military rehabilitation unit which opened earlier this year in Tidworth, talk about the work with servicemen who have been damaged physically and mentally. He said that services like Dressability need to be available in the background. “Currently the guys we deal with are young and casual, easy to wear clothing is what they prefer, particularly during their
rehabilitation when they are doing a lot of physical training; amputees in particular live in shorts and sweatshirts. But as they get older and perhaps progress into a more professional setting, knowing that Dressability is ready to adapt clothing will be very helpful.” Dressability needs more people of any age with sewing and designing skills to join its team of volunteers to tailor clothing for people with disabilities. For details mail project manager Sian Barrie at: dressability@madasafish.com
EXERCISE IN DISGUISE! The Latin Inspired, Easy To Follow Calorie-Burning Dance Fitness PartyTM Tuesday BPM Active Studio, Unit 26, BSS House, Cheney Manor, SN2 2PJ 9:30 – 10:15 am Wednesday Purton Village Hall 9:30 – 10:15 am Abbey Meads School 6:00 – 6:45 pm Thursday Cricklade Town Hall 9.30 - 10.15 am
Helen 07739 585532 helenzumba@hotmail.co.uk
Find me on Facebook – search for Helen’s Zumba Zumba®, Zumba Fitness® and the Zumba Fitness logos are registered trademarks of Zumba Fitness, LLC
TOP UP TANNING
Who needs the sun to get a great tan? Make yourself feel good or for that special occasion, treat yourself to a spray tan, using Sienna X products, for only £15. Group discount – pay for 4 spray tans and get the 5th FREE.
For details, call Christine on 07789 483655.
One stop shopping 24 Hour Asda Supermarket A great choice of places to eat FREE parking ASDA Superstore McDONALDS BLOCKBUSTERS DVD Hire THOMAS COOK Travel Agents HARVESTER Public House NAT WEST BANK HALIFAX DENTAL PRACTICE CLINTON CARDS HAIR2GO Barbers DOMINO’S PIZZA HK97 Chinese Take-away R. J.HOLMES Opticians JOHNSONS Dry Cleaners
POST OFFICE LADBROKES Turf Accountants TIMPSON Shoe Repairs/ Key Cutting MARTINS Newsagents MOTORSAVE Motor Accessories TAYLORS Estate Agents PARTNERS Hairdressing Salon BRITZ Fish & Chips PRICELESS Shoes PROSPECT Charity Shop CORALS The Bookmakers
Discover the fun of Christmas family shopping!
W•E•S•T S•W•I•N•D•O•N C•E•N•T•R•E Find us by Sat Nav
Tewkesbury Way, Swindon SN5 7DL www.wssc.co.uk
21-48 November 11.indd 29
21/10/2011 14:52
30
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Boccia league launched in Swindon
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Zumba MONDAYS 7.30pm Brimble Hill School, Tadpole Lane Consultant: Denise 01793 764689 MONDAYS 5:30pm & 7:30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue Haydon Wick, Swindon SN25 1QQ Consultant: Sharon 0784 111 9082 TUESDAYS 6:30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Main Sports Hall Hugo Drive, Abbey Meads, Swindon, SN25 4GY Consultant: Paula 01793 701442 WEDNESDAYS 5:30pm and 7.30pm (new times) Community room, St Francis School , Taw Hill Consultant: Heather 07816860840 THURSDAYS 7:00pm Greendown Community School, Grange Park Way Grange Park, Swindon, SN5 6HN Consultant: Jenny 07939 410805
FRIDAYS, 9.30am Community room, St Francis School, Taw Hill Consultant: Heather 07816860840
Swindon veterans lead the field
The Swindon School of Gymnastics, based at Isis Trading Estate, Stratton, recently sent 14 gymnasts to the British Veterans’ Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Leicester.
Check our website for special offers
FREE SPINAL CHECKS AVAILABLE
THURSDAYS 9.30am, 5:30pm and 7:30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick Swindon, SN25 1QQ Consultant: Sharon 0784 111 9082
Swindon’s first Boccia league was launched by Swindon Council’s Leisure Services team in October with a special event aimed at introducing people to the Paralympic sport. It is a target ball game, similar to pentanque and bowls, initially conceived for people with cerebral palsy. As it is played from a seated position it is suitable for disabled and non-disabled people to take part together. The next monthly league fixtures will be held on 19 November, 17 December 2011; 14 January and 18 February 2012. For details about taking part call Ben Humphrey on 465404 or mail Adam Greaney: agreaney@swindon.gov.uk
Greendown School (Lydiard Park Academy) Wed 6pm - 6.50pm Fri 6pm - 6.50pm (new class starts 4th November) £5 per class no need to book
bpm active training studio Unit 26 - Access A, BSS House, Cheney Manor SN2 2PJ
Pictured back from left, Gary Burton, Nicky Payne, Christine Bishop, Owen Hall, Meike Greenaway, Jake Hall, Natasha Dell, John Hall, Sarah Rouse, Laurissa HynerAnderson. Front, Lauren Cordingley, Jessica Coombs, Laura Scutts and Chrissie Davies
Aged between 19 and 52, they all entered as individuals in their relevant sections and some into the team categories. Swindon had by far the largest squad of the day and the loudest supporters. The numbers taking part each year have been increasing as has
the extremely high standard of gymnastics. This year 155 competitors from fifty different British clubs participated and SSG returned with an impressive 19 medals and five British champions - Tash Dell, Nicky Payne, Owen Hall, Gary Burton and Jake Hall.
Flash kit for Ferndale The ladies from Ferndale Netball Club are showing off a great sense of fashion on the court this season with new dresses supplied by new West Swindon kit supplier Numist. The design by club coach Joy Blake and player Carly Regan uses green and black, Ferndale’s colours for over 100 years. However player years are but a fraction of its history and the club welcomes more women who want to join a lively friendly group, to play netball socially or in league competition teams. Training takes place at Greendown on Mondays, 7.30pm to 9pm. For details call Joy Blake on 872237 or mail: carlyangels1@googlemail.com
Thurs 12.15pm - 1pm (new class starts 3rd November) All classes £5, no need to book Zumba: A Latin inspired, easy to follow calorie burning, dance fitness party. Come and enjoy a really fun & friendly class, feel the music and let loose. Look forward to seeing you soon! Enquiries to Yasmin 07729 228979
21-48 November 11.indd 30
20/10/2011 11:24
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Lingerie outlet offers unique mastectomy fitting service
Two years after setting up her online lingerie business from her front room, retailing entrepreneur Clare Haines from Abbey Meads has much to celebrate. Her Lingerie Outlet Store recently transferred from a small unit in Kingsdown to larger premises in Stratton, and she has added more major names to her list of brands, including After Eden, Wonderbra and Playtex. “Considering we have only been going for a couple of years the business is going really well,” said Clare. “We pride ourselves on a friendly service. Ladies can come in, have a cup of tea and a chat, get a free fitting and then choose from an enormous range of stock. It’s like coming into a sweet shop.” womanly again after the awful time In June Clare completed a special they’ve had. I can find them a very training course which qualifies pretty, normal bra to wear, rather her to offer fittings to ladies who than a pocketed one that’s maybe have experienced mastectomy. just had a flower embroidered on “You can’t be a bra fitter and not the front. Why shouldn’t women look after women who have had a feel like a million dollars in their mastectomy,” she said. underwear?” “Now I’m the only qualified fitter The Lingerie Outlet Store is now in a massive radius. Ladies from located at County Road Business Swindon had to drive to London Park, SN1 2NR. or Cardiff to be fitted after masAnyone who books their first free tectomy – but now they can stay bra fitting will receive a free pair of closer to home. knickers worth £10. “I really want to help ladies feel Contact Clare on 487100.
PAINFUL FEET? Mrs Lesley Taylor MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR
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31
Get healthy, stay healthy, with
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Tel: 01793 600440 • Traditional family medicine within a modern, comfortable and relaxed environment • Now open to new patient registrations from patients in West and North Swindon and the surrounding nearby villages • We are an accredited training practice. • On-line appointment booking now available. Register in the surgery or download an application form.
Dunwich Drive, Toothill Village Centre www.phoenixsurgery.com
21-48 November 11.indd 31
20/10/2011 11:25
Kids Christmas Camps 19th to 23rd December 2011
Bring the kids to our Christmas Camps where they can take part in fun filled days and sports and activities to keep them entertained while you finalise those last minute Christmas plans. For kids 5-7 and 8+. Camps run from 9 to 5pm (other times available). £22 per day with snacks and lunch included or £18 per day if you bring your own lunch and snacks.
**NOW TAKING BOOKINGS **
NOW ONLY
£10!
With a 25m indoor pool with separate kiddies pool, Jacuzzis, steam rooms and sauna, come along and unwind and enjoy our swimming facilities.
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Leaders wanted to get Swindon walking
33
Reflexology Reiki • EFT Hopi Ear Candling Massage
Could you spare a couple of hours a week to help get more people walking for health in Swindon? A training session is planned on 1 November, 10am to 3pm, at Link Centre to find out what’s involved. The Walk Swindon project is looking for new volunteer leaders to help expand the local Health Walks scheme. Walking is an ideal way to control weight, strengthen bones, lift mood and reduce the risk of developing serious conditions, like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Swindon Health Walks are part of a nationally accredited scheme. They are free, sociable, last 40 to 45 minutes and are followed by refreshments. Walkers move at a fairly brisk but comfortable pace to maximise the health benefits and all walks are led by trained volunteer walk leaders. To find out more and to register contact Cheryl Heyne on 465413 or by mail: cheyne@swindon.gov.uk www.challengeswindon.org.uk
Cherri Ann Matthews FFHT FICHT ATLM MIfL
Walking club welcomes new members
www.cherriannmatthews.co.uk
Emotional Freedom Technique (for trauma, fears, phobias, anger, panic, anxiety, etc.).
GIFT VOUCHERS make great Christmas Presents - from £10 Certified Reiki and AAMET EFT Courses
Call now on (01793) 871410 QUALIFIED THERAPIST & TRAINER
The HF Swindon Walking Club has been running since 1950 and is a group of approximately seventy members who range in age and ability. The club organises twice weekly Faringdon and Great Coxwell and walks in a friendly and safe environ- in the Cotswolds. All are welcome to take part ment - Wednesdays are generally 6 to 7 miles long and take place within and transport can be shared with 20 miles of the town and are ideal for a small contribution to the driver. retired people. Sunday rambles are Club membership costs just £3 per longer, start near the Civic Offices year but prospective members are in Euclid Street at 10am and take in welcome to take part on two or three walks before being asked to join. walks further afield. For details contact the secretary: Recent walks have taken place around Hinton Parva and Ashbury, echarleston@lycos.com or call the Cotswold Water parks, Avebury, 490426.
Some walking facts thanks to the National Trust • Walking an extra twenty or so minutes every day (about 1 mile) will burn off around half a stone (7 pounds) of body fat per year. • The average person takes 2,000 steps per mile. • Walking for one mile burns exactly as many calories as jogging for one mile, it just takes longer. • On average, every minute of walking can extend your life by 1.5 to 2 minutes. That’s about a 2 for 1 trade-off! • When you take a step, you are using up to 200 muscles. • On average, you burn around 100 calories per mile. See 101 downloadable, regional mile-long walks at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walkingfestival and http://www.ntsouthwest.co.uk/sillywalks
Parent fitness classes at Barnado’s Centre Robert Le Kyng Children’s Centre in Westcott Street, Even Swindon holds fitness classes for parents, with a creche alongside it. Hour long drop-in sessions on Mondays or Wednesdays, 6.15pm, cost £3. Childcare is 50p per child and needs to be booked by calling 525830.
THE RUNNING SCHOOL OPEN DAY
Saturday November 26th Free Taster Session for adults & kids on running technique and injury history. Call for an appointment.
... the most effective, complete, motivating and easy-to-follow running programme for runners of any level. We teach you how to run in just 6 sessions. The Running School for Kids starts from the age of 8 to 14 and we make it fun, with special programmes which take into account their growth, their co-ordination, agility, size and ability.
01793 721977 or 07731 793575 info@runningschoolswindon.co.uk www.runningschool.co.uk
94 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive Swindon SN5 7EX
21-48 November 11.indd 33
DO YOU SUFFER FROM: • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LOWER BACK PAIN SPECIAL OFFER £20 • NUMBNESS IN ARMS & HANDS ORIGINAL PRICE £100 OR MORE! • PAIN BETWEEN SHOULDER BLADES Offer ends 30th November 2011 www.ridgewaymedispa.com • WHIPLASH • NUMBNESS OR PAIN IN LEGS Your initial visit will include: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms call our clinic TODAY for an appointment
Ridgeway Medi-Spa Chiropractic, Fairwater Stables, 1 High Street, Wroughton, Wilts SN4 9JX NOW OPEN IN KEMBREY PARK! Ridgeway Medi-spa has now opened a new branch in Next Generation, Kembrey Park. For chiropractic, beauty and massage,
call us on 01793 422210.
✓ A private consultation with the Doctor ✓ X-rays if necessary ✓ A thorough spinal examination including orthopaedic and neurological tests ✓ A confidential report of our findings ✓ An explanation of our treatment procedure if we determine Chiropractic can help you ✓ A referral to the appropriate specialist if we determine a Doctor of Chiropractic cannot help you
www.ridgewaymedispa.com TEL: 01793 814567
20/10/2011 15:10
34
swindonlink.com • November 2011
PILATES CLASS
FOR BEGINNERS AND IMPROVERS Every Monday, 7.45 - 8.45pm and every Tuesday, 8 - 9pm at Peatmoor Community Primary School Every Thursday, 7pm - 8pm, at Isambard Community School Each course is for 6 weeks, to be booked and paid for in advance, costing £30. For further details and to book on the next course please contact Debbie Mitchell
on 01793 722152 or 07745 422365
Warm Up with SPA packages from £50 • Hot Lava Shell Massage First in the UK for • Hot Thai Compress Massage the NEW Orly Gel FX • Hot Stone Massage
• Elemis Facials & Body Wraps • Waxing • St Tropez spray tan nail system • Minx & Shellac The Thyme Treatment Rooms • Sports Massage • Reflexology At the Marriott Hotel • Lash Extensions Tel: 01793 433338 www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk
The Laser Clinic Are you ready for the party season? Look Good – Feel Good at The Laser Clinic With our special offers on anti-ageing treatments such as BotoxTM, Laser and Microdermabrasion we are sure to have you looking and feeling great ready for Christmas! And with gift vouchers available, you can always give the gift of TLC to your loved ones too.
See our website for details of our special offers
www.swindonlaserclinic.co.uk Call now while appointments last
Tel: 01793 602480 Email: carol.ann@swindonlaserclinic.co.uk
FREE PARKING at 9 Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive, Westlea, West Swindon
21-48 November 11.indd 34
Golf captains make history for Seve
Swindon Link writer Juliet Platt will commence her year as Lady Captain at Wrag Barn Golf Club, by driving off from the first tee on 9 November to launch a fundraising campaign on behalf of the Seve Ballesteros Foundation in partnership with Cancer Research UK for research into brain cancer. Former world number one and winner of over 80 tournaments including five major championships, Ballesteros was, for a decade, arguably the greatest golfer in the world. His legacy will also be for creating the game’s global appeal and for spearheading a resurgence in European golf. Steve said, “the foundation will Juliet said, “I’m very excited to become Lady Captain. It’s a great benefit from almost 18 months’ of privilege and I’m so grateful for all fundraising activity at Wrag Barn. the support and good wishes from Through a number of events, we the Ladies Section and management aim to raise a considerable amount of money in the name of Seve Ballteam here at Wrag Barn. “After Seve’s death in May I esteros and his foundation.” In 2008 Seve was diagnosed with knew I wanted to nominate his foundation as my charity. Sadly 15 a brain tumour the size of two golf years ago my father–in-law died balls and in 2009, driven out of a with the same type of tumour that desire to help others in his position, Seve had. So to dedicate the year to set up the Seve Ballesteros Foundaraise money for this worthy cause, tion in partnership with Cancer in memory of Seve and my father- Research UK to raise vital funds into brain cancer research. in-law, is very fitting.” Juliet took the unusual step of in- seveballesterosfoundation.org/uk viting the incoming Wrag Barn Club Swindon swinger one of the best captain, Steve Griffiths, pictured with Juliet above, to join forces in raising A blog written by former world no. 7 golfer David Howell from Swindon money for the Foundation. “I was thrilled that he accepted,” has been acclaimed by James Corshe said. “This is the first time in rigan of The Independent. Read his Wrag Barn’s history that the lady amusing, insightful and poignant and club captains have joined forces comments at www.davidhowellgolf. com to raise funds for one charity.”
Are you and your bike ready for winter? Whether the majority of your cycling is done on main roads or cycle paths, two of the most important accessories you should have this winter are a high visibility waterproof jacket and decent lights to make sure everyone can see you, including those ‘not quite focused’ car drivers. Good lights are incredibly important, not just to light the road ahead but also to alert drivers and pedestrians of your whereabouts on the road. Unfortunately due to budget cuts and cost saving exercises in Swindon, many roads are not lit; if you use one of these routes it’s of even more importance to get yourself geared up to be seen. e-motion on Cricklade Road also stocks high vis backpack and helmet covers, as well as waterproof trousers, gloves, and the all essential Muc-off to keep your bike clean. See the e-motion advert on page 25 for contact details.
Don’t let dieting be heavy going
LIGHTEN UP No calorie counting. No points watching. No hassle.
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20/10/2011 16:05
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Pirates spread good cheer on half marathon course
A group of good natured pirates from the Les Slinn AllStars Running club ran the Swindon half marathon course on 9 October carrying a chest of bounty which, quite opposite to what pirates are supposed to do, they gave away. Les and 11 other runners dipped into their treasure chest for sweets to throw to people on the route. The team is raising £6,000 to buy a vibrogym machine for the Swindon MS Therapy Centre, a piece of equipment that vibrates to stimulate the circulation, activate nerve endings and strengthen muscles. Purchase a running calendar Supporters contributed £500 to the team’s half marathon published by the running club and help with sponsorship at: outing. www.slinnallstars.co.uk Fifteen Allstars have signed up to run the Rome Marathon in March • Look out for the pirate team at the 2012 to raise money for this much 25 November Old Town Christmas lights switch on. needed piece of equipment.
Curves offers membership for a donation
Curves Swindon has joined other branches around the country to fundraise for Breast Cancer Care, to ensure continued support for the 50,000 people diagnosed with breast cancer every year, by raising money and promoting the importance of being breast aware and engaging in regular physical exercise. The women-only fitness centre support Breast Cancer Care.” As part of their fundraising efat Greencote House, Isambard Way, Redhouse is waiving the fee for forts, Curves Swindon is also colnew members who join before 5 lecting old and/or unwanted bras November, in return for a donation from both members and residents to Breast Cancer Care or another alike for the club’s bra recycling bank, with £1 donated to Breast breast cancer charity. Curves manager Kathryn Steele Cancer Care for each kilo (approxisaid, “fundraising for breast cancer mately 17 bras) of bras donated. Call into Curves with bras or to charities is something which unites the Curves community globally, become a member. See details in and we’re delighted to be able to the advert at the top of the page.
New at Kembrey Park
Ridgeway Medi-Spa opened a branch in Kembrey Park at Next Generation Sports Centre on 1 October when players from Swindon Wildcats ice hockey team and Howard Taylor of More FM were given a waxing in aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance. The medi-spa offers leading edge chiropractic, massage and sports therapy as well as the Simply Beautiful salon and personal weight management consultancy. It is designed to offer a holistic approach to health and well being. See the advert on page 33 and at www.ridgewaymedispa.com
Swindon has a regional sporting champion Volunteer Centre Swindon has been selected to be a Regional Sporting Champion for the South West by Volunteering England. The aim is to help sports clubs attract and develop more diverse and sustainable volunteer teams. Sue Dunmore, centre manager, said, “Volunteer Centre Swindon is delighted to become a partner in the Sporting Champion project. We are keen to work with sports groups to develop opportunities.
21-48 November 11.indd 35
This project will help them attract non-technical sports volunteers, for example in catering and admin roles. In particular we are looking at ways to help sports clubs through our employer supported volunteering project, Involve Swindon.” To discuss how to attract more volunteers to your club, contact Louise Hallett at Volunteer Centre Swindon on 420557 or mail: lou@ swindonvolunteers.org.uk
35
Let’s unite to fight breast cancer.
At Curves, keeping women healthy is our business. Breast cancer is a risk to all women, but taking precautionary steps is fast and easy, just like our workout. Lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight through our strength-training and cardio circuit that takes just 30 minutes. Think Pink from 25 October to 5 November for women’s health!
Join for FREE with any donation.*
01793 745200
Unit 3, Greencote House, Isambard Way. Redhouse, Swindon, SN25 2NT *Between 25 October and 5 November, Curves is waiving the service fee when you make a donation to a breast cancer organisation. Offer based on a first visit enrolment, 12 mo. d.d. programme. New members only. Valid at participating locations. Not valid with any other offer. Registered charity in England and Wales 1017658. © 2011 Curves International, Inc.
THE CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTRE CLARE DUNCAN-HAWES
FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • NECK PAIN • BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • SPORTS INJURY • CAR ACCIDENT INJURIES
Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you. Please call
01793 602454
Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike.
54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk
Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC Member of the British Chiropractic Association & College of Chiropractors. Registered with GCC
DITCH THE WORK OUT, JOIN THE PARTY! Red Oaks School, Redhouse: Mondays: 6.10pm - 7.00pm & ★ 7.00pm - 7.30pm TONING Wednesdays: 6.30pm - 7.20pm & ★ 7.30pm - 8.00pm TONING Gorse Hill Community Centre: Wednesdays: 12.15pm - 1.00pm Sundays: 7.00pm - 7.50pm & ★ 8.00pm - 8.30pm TONING Toothill Community Centre: Tuesdays: 12.30pm - 1.20pm Freshbrook Community Centre: Tuesdays: 6.00pm - 6.50pm ★ Sundays: 6.00pm - 6.45pm TONING Greendown School, Grange Park: Tuesdays: 7.20pm - 8.10pm Northview Com. Ctr., Highworth: Tues: 6.00pm - 6.50pm Zumba/Toning More Classes On Our Website:
www.zumbainswindon.co.uk info@zumbainswindon.co.uk Kathie & Terry: 0777 565 1566 ZUMBA® and the Zumba Fitness logo are trademarks used under license.
20/10/2011 16:10
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
Home Library volunteers are a key service for the housebound Get cycling indoors for Pudsey Ten volunteers who have spent years delivering books to housebound literary lovers were recognised Oasis Leisure Centre is launching its new shiny Keiser static training bikes by organising a day of RPM classes to raise money for Children in Need on Saturday 12 November. There will be 50 bikes per class with three instructors on stage including a couple of Les Mills UK National RPM trainers taking part. All instructors are giving their time free. Eight 45 minute RPM classes are on offer starting at 9.30am and every hour on the half hour, the last at 4.30pm. Each class costs £2 and you can ride as many as you like. Book at Oasis reception, in the gym, or call 465158. Organiser Delores Douglas hopes newcomers to RPM will have a go. “We’re hoping our regular customers will come and ride one or several classes, but why not bring along family and friends to take part for Children in Need? “Anyone can join in. This is a great opportunity to experience RPM in a fun, relaxed atmosphere at a pace that suits you. “It really is a great way of building up your fitness; the charity day is an ideal way of finding out if it’s for you.”
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for their tireless work at West Swindon Library in October when the mayor of Swindon Ray Ballman presented WRVS Long Service medals. The WRVS works closely with Swindon Council’s library service to ensure residents who have a long-term disability which prevents them from getting to a library, or who may struggle to carry books home can make use of the town’s stock of books, audio and music CDs, and DVDs. The service is also offered to people who are recovering from a stay in hospital or long illness at home and for those residents whose carers do not have time to visit the library on their behalf. Volunteers work in pairs to visit customers on a regular basis to learn The Mayor with WRVS regional manager John Clifford, back, home library coortheir interests so that the right sort dinator Maria Bastin, left, and long service medal winners, from left, Irene De La of books can be chosen for delivery. Haye, Doreen Little, Glenys Gough, Pam Baker, Jacquie Rowe, Gill Glover, Inga A cake decorated with the WRVS Keating, Gill Pratt crest made by librarian Ros Wilson was cut to mark the occasion. Library service manager Shaun Smith said, “the volunteers provide an essential service for the library. Swindon Mentoring and Self Help Project’s (SMASH) hopes for surWe value them enormously and vival suffered another disappointment at the end of September when the customers welcome their help.” the charity was turned down for a large lottery grant. Founded over ten years ago, with mentors, and there is no shortCall WRVS coordinator Maria SMASH links trained adult volun- age of people who want to become Bastin for details of becoming a volunteer on 465495 or mail: home. teers with vulnerable young people volunteers, but we don’t have the in need of practical help and advice resources to fund training courses library@swindon.gov.uk www.swindon.gov.uk/homelibrary on how to cope with life issues, like and provide the essential ongoing problems at home, school and with support that volunteers must have friends - essential learning to help when engaged in sensitive work like this. them stay out of trouble. CLICK & BUY ON ONLINE “SMASH requires over £200,000 Lottery funding which supSIMPLE TO USE ONLINE SHOP to satisfy the need we’re aware of; ported the charity after a previous SELECT YOUR DIY FENCE/GATE KIT crisis in 2007 ran out in early 2010 currently we’re surviving on half BUY & WE DELIVER and SMASH has been surviving that amount.” WWW.KUDOSFENCING.COM South Swindon MP Robert Buckon small grants and community land said, “I am very concerned to fundraising ever since. Project manager Rob Chappell hear about this latest news. I will said, “we have a waiting list of work as hard as I can with SMASH 36 vulnerable young people who to help identify potential sources of would like to build a relationship funding for this excellent service.”
Smash strong in face of disappointment
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Charity auction in aid of SMASH, Prospect Hospice and Swindon Animal Haven 26 November, 7pm. The Plum Tree, Regent Street. Come along to bid for restaurant meals, pampering treatments, henna tattoos, even an advertisement in The Link. More prizes welcome. Mail Liz Brackenbury with offers: elizabeth brackenbury - bizzybs@btinternet.com
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20/10/2011 11:29
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Silk gets you moving smoothly Silk Mobility at Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea offers a wide range of affordably-priced mobility aids from stair lifts and scooters for the elderly to sports wheelchairs and finely tuned racing hand-cycles for the active user. Owner Chris Fullerton, below, has been in the mobility industry for 15 years and brings a wealth of knowledge and good advice about the products that are available. He said, “there is a lot of innovation in the mobility market, but it is typically a poorly sign-posted industry where people’s lack of
37
New, free business network lunch launches
awareness of what is available can be exploited. “We offer our customers friendly advice and personalised service to find the mobility solution that is right for them and that will help sustain their independence.” “Our range of high-tech sports chairs are aimed at the active user. If there are any budding paralympian athletes out there we would love to talk to you.” Silk Mobility is currently offering a 10 per cent discount off their whole range. See the advert on the right for details.
Basepoint Business Centre in West Swindon is launching The Networking Hub on Thursday 10 November, 12noon to 2pm, a free quarterly event including lunch for any local business and Basepoint licensees. Award winning centre manager Lyn Chapman, right, says, “The Networking Hub will provide the opportunity to meet new people, generate new business – and also listen to a guest speaker.” First up is Al Keck of toinfinity, a recognised leader in e-commerce management and online marketing who will talk about how to achieve the best results from websites followed by an informal Q&A session. To register for a free place, call the Basepoint team on 608800.
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21-48 November 11.indd 37
01793 608800
20/10/2011 11:29
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
Need help in the Garden? • Lawn Mowing, Feeding and Treating • Turfing & Oversowing • Garden Clearances and Planting • Power Washing Patios and Furniture • Hedge Trimming and Pruning • Fencing & Shed Building
Swindon Citizens Advice Bureau needs your help in tough times Swindon CAB provides invaluable advice to residents of the town, and with the economy in poor shape and inflation running well ahead of incomes, the demand on the service is greater now than ever. The CAB is dependent upon a helping people understand their dedicated team of trained volun- rights as a tenant and advising on teers from all ages and backgrounds consumer rights. Full training and ongoing support who give their time and skills to put something back into the community. is provided to volunteers. To find out more call 618781 (opDuring 2010/11 the CAB in Swindon resolved over 20,000 problems tion 4) or mail: trainer.swindoncab@ for its clients, including redundancy cabnet.org.uk www.swindoncab. issues and advice on entitlements, org.uk
Scouts get ready for Christmas deliveries
Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor, Swindon 01793 526691 Open 7 days a week
Quality TGB garden buildings for any situation Bespoke sizes available Base laying & installation available
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Scouts across Swindon will once again this year be taking part in the annual Scout Christmas Post. The 7th Swindon (Abbey Meads) of Swindon borough including its Scout Group, which covers North rural areas as well as surroundSwindon, will be selling stamps at ing towns and villages: Wootton Bassett, Purton, Lydiard Millicent, 20p each at Asda Walmart. Bushton, Clyffe Pypard, TockenFriday 25 November, 7pm - 8pm Saturday 26 November, 10am - 4pm ham, Broad Town, Cricklade, Latton, Ashton Keynes, Shrivenham, Sunday 27 November, 10am - 4pm Watchfield, Bourton, Idstone, Friday 2 December, 7pm - 8pm Ashbury and Kingston Winslow. Saturday 3 December, 10am - 4pm A special green collection box will Sunday 4 December, 10am - 4pm be located in Asda Walmart ready to receive your cards. The last collecFriday 9 December, 7pm - 8pm tion from the post box takes place on Saturday 10 December, 10am - 4pm Tuesday 13 December, 4pm. Cards Sunday 11 December, 10am - 4pm will be delivered over the weekend The delivery area covers all parts of 17 and 18 December.
Come and cut down some trees
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www.sansums.co.uk 21-48 November 11.indd 38
What a bad thing to do, you might think. But some trees grow better and last longer if they are regularly cut - and you can have fun doing it. The Peatmoor Community Woodland Group meets every month to manage Peatmoor Copse by the lagoon. The wood is a remnant of the ancient Braydon Forest which was once a royal hunting ground. Nowadays, it’s a secret green oasis within West Swindon. Over the last 23 years volunteers have used the old management technique of coppicing to regenerate the hazel, ash, alder, hornbeam and willow. Clearing defined areas of the copse on a seven year cycle has encouraged a wide variety of bird, mammal and insect life Group member Andy Tucker half way to return and increased through coppicing a hazel tree the lifespan of the trees. The group meets on the first arrived and trees have stopped Sunday of the month, 10am to 1pm, growing, the copping season is and newcomers who want to do well underway. The next coppicsomething for the environment, try ing day takes place on Sunday 6 something practical outdoors and November. For details call Roger learn about woodland management Ogle on 608840 or mail: roger_ogle@ are needed. Children are welcome mac.com The day is registered as a CSV but have to be accompanied by Make A Difference Day. an adult. www.csv.org.uk/difference Now that the cold weather has
21/10/2011 10:33
swindonlink.com • November 2011
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• Pruning and Shaping • Felling and Removal • Hedge Cutting • Stump Grinding • Tree Planting
on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
B o u n da ry Windows
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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.
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21-48 November 11.indd 40
Red Cross emergency service plan 24 hour response - if volunteers step forward
The Red Cross Fire and Emergency Support Service based at Westlea Fire Station provides assistance to people who have been forced from their home by fire or a domestic emergency such as flooding, and find their premises uninhabitable, writes Martin Lloyd from Westlea. The service has been ac- assistance with insurance claims tive for many years and has helped and advice about what to do next. many people start the process of Partner services can provide accomrecovering their lives following modation, should this be needed some harrowing circumstances. for the night. From 1 January we are hoping to The latest incident was a house struck by lightning where The Red expand from a weekend and night Cross service was able to look after service to a fully crewed 24 hour the occupants while the Fire and service. But to move to this new state Rescue service dealt with making of readiness we need to increase the numbers of volunteers available. the premise safe. If you can help contact me: marPractical help like shelter, food and clothing and a safe environ- tinlloyd671@btinternet.com for ment can be provided, as well as more information.
Mums’ writing group keeps going After 8 successful pilot sessions of a writing group for women, Mums the Word has secured funding through Arts Word to continue. This nurturing, supportive and inspirational writing group organised by mum of seven Liz Brackenbury and supported by Matt Holland, Literature Festival Organiser and Hilda Sheehan of the BlueGate poets, is keen for new members to join them. “The group is not about teaching anyone to write, it’s more about giving women the confidence and support to put their own personal ideas and experiences onto paper,” said Liz. The group meets at Lower Shaw Farm fortnightly on Thursdays 7.30pm to 9pm. It runs on a drop-in basis and costs £2 per session which includes writing/poetry workshops and light refreshments. No previous writing experience is necessary. For details mail Liz: bizzybs@btinternet.com or call 832715.
20/10/2011 16:13
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Use North bus service - or lose it
A Thamedown Transport route serving North Swindon is not attracting enough passengers and there are worries that it may close if it does not become economically viable soon. Blunsdon ParManaging direcish Council is contor of Thamesdown cerned about low Transport Paul Jenpassenger numbers kins, left, said, “the on the recently improved Service launched 15A bus 15A timetable, with service through its extra early mornNorth Swindon, ing and late evening connecting Taw journeys, was only Hill, Oakhurst and launched on 19 SepRedhouse to Swintember and we have don town centre. no plans to review its The service was future yet. launched by North Swindon MP “Following the distribution of Justin Tomlinson in September and timetable leaflets through The Link, runs every 20 minutes from before I’m pleased to say we are beginning 6am until after 11pm. to see some growth in passenger Council chairman Stuart Boyd numbers over last year. Observed said, “we were pleased when loadings on the service may appear Thamesdown improved the bus low as it passes through Redhouse service for Redhouse and had because this is the far end of the hoped that the 15A would prove a route and the buses pick up further popular route. However it appears passengers through Oakhurst and that despite requests for this route it Taw Hill on the way into town. is little used and unless passenger “Nevertheless, I support the parnumbers increase it is likely to be ish council’s call for local residents withdrawn. to make the fullest use of Service “This is a classic case of use it 15A, as maintaining it at a 20 minute or lose it, so we urge residents to frequency will ultimately depend make use of this service before it on the numbers of passengers using is too late.” the buses.”
41
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Police meeting for potential specials Wiltshire Police are holding a presentation for anybody who would like to apply to become a special constable on Wednesday 2 November, 7pm at Gable Cross police station. Register for the presentation at www.wiltshire.police.uk (click on the special constables tab). Or call Andy Phillimore by dialing 101, choosing extension 720 2314.
Story time at One-O-One in Old Town Children’s author Neil Griffiths has been invited to launch a new coffee and lunch bar at One-O-One, 7 Wood Street, Old Town on Tuesday 1 November. He will be entertaining customers with some of his unforgettable stories at 11am and at 11.30am. All are welcome to be spellbound by his stories whilst sipping great coffee.
Another great day for CLIMB
At the very successful 2011 Open Day in aid of CLIMB: Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases, on 25 September, Janet’s Puppy School in Haydon Wick, past, present and future pupils joined in to raise money and enjoy time with their dogs. School leader Janet Garrett said, “we are delighted to have raised £800 for CLIMB. Dogs and owners showing off in aid of Climb Thank you so much at the Puppy Skool to everyone who has helped us raise so much money have done it without so many well over the last five years, we couldn’t behaved dogs to help us.”
21-48 November 11.indd 41
Vaccination Amnesty
Get your cat or dog’s vaccination back on track and save yourself up to £21.00. This great offer is now extended until 30th November 2011.
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21/10/2011 10:45
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swindonlink.com • November 2011 ®
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Soul music to light up education for children in Africa Inspirational singer-songwriter Rodo from London is appearing in a special fundraising concert in aid of Cricklade-based charity, Lights for Learning, at Holy Trinity Church in Shaw Village Centre on Saturday 19 November, 7.30pm. The charity has installed solarpowered electric light to schools in Kenya, Zambia, Gambia and Zimbabwe where the government has asked Lights for Learning to work with them to install lighting in 6,000 rural schools across the country where it is too expensive to link them to the mains grid. The West Swindon concert will
include Rodo’s latest single Light our World, which she wrote in support of the charity. It’s available to buy on iTunes for 79p, with all proceeds going to Lights for Learning. Rodo grew up in Nigeria, so she has the special vantage point of knowing the problems that exist for schools in Africa. She said, “it’s one thing helping people, and another thing helping people to help themselves. Lights for Learning certainly provides sustainable help by improving the conditions in
which people can become better educated. “People should listen to the heart behind the music and do everything they can to support this charity.” Tickets are £10. For details mail: peter@ lightsforlearning.org • In 2004 The Link organised the first public presentation of the light system invented by Roger Mugridge, appropriately at Holy Trinity, Shaw. See a picture and more details at www.swindonlink.com
‘E’ should be put into erroneous signs Adrian Balch of Rushey Platt says place names right. He writes: Put ‘Rushy Platt’ into your satnav and it will come up with nothing. Why? Because it doesn’t exist. The correct spelling is ‘Rushey Platt,’ famous for the Swindon Canal and former railway station on the Midland & South West Railway line. However, not according to Swindon Council who have erected traffic sign posts on the Wootton Bassett Road pointing to ‘Rushy Platt Ind Estate.’ To perpetuate the error, at least one company on the estate has adopted the incorrect spelling, which will change our history and
Swindon Council needs to get its heritage and affect businesses if not corrected. Twice this year I have pointed this error out to Swindon Council, but have been ignored as ‘unimportant’ and told it ‘would cost them money to change it.’ If there was a signpost pointing to Swondon, would they ignore that as well? Thanks to Adrian for the images here. Below, a railway ticket from 1899 showing the correct spelling
FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome ✶ cam belt replacement ✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds ✶ electrical fault code reading ✶ MOT repairs ✶ vehicle sales ✶ servicing to light commercials
Open 8.30am - 5.30pm
Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards
OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667
39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Don’t be SAD during the dark months
Every winter between September and April seven per cent of the population of the UK is seriously affected by SAD (seasonal affective disorder) to the extent that it prevents them from functioning normally, writes Elaine Watt. It is estimated that a further which contains bright light tubes seventeen per cent suffer milder under a screen. You sit about half symptoms that none the less cause a metre away from it for 10 to 20 minutes and can carry on with them discomfort and frustration. Most of us feel more cheerful and normal activities, such as reading, energetic when the sun is shining. working, eating or watching TV. Talking treatments such as counThink back to the first weekend in October 2011 when we saw tem- selling or CBT (cognitive behavperatures reaching 29°C. Did you ioural therapy) can be extremely feel happier, and did you notice useful in helping people cope with how many people were out in the SAD symptoms. Counselling can fresh air walking, smiling and be- also help uncover other factors that may be contributing to the way you ing active? SAD can strike at any age but is feel and enable you to do something most common between 18 and 30. about them. To help ease the symptoms: It is thought that twice as many women have SAD than men; though • try to make the most of natural this is a difficult statistic to mea- light; sure as statistically more women • try to avoid stress, be ruthless than men seek help for depressive about which tasks can be left until summer, especially major tasks such symptoms. SAD usually recurs regularly as moving home or changing job; each winter as the quality and • pamper yourself physically; quantity of light entering the eyes • keep active with some form of reduces. Symptoms include depres- exercise that doesn’t require too sion, sleep problems, lethargy, over much concentration or drain you of eating, loss of libido and sudden energy, such as walking, swimming, yoga or Pilates; mood changes. The most effective treatment for • eat well, try to avoid starving most people is bright light therapy. yourself and then giving in to cravThis involves spending some time ings for carbohydrates and sweet each day exposed to a light box things.
Why move when you can improve? With over 50 years experience we can project manage your new conservatory from start to finish creating an additional room for you to enjoy all year round - tailor made to suit your needs. Don’t Forget! We also sell doors, windows and timber garden buildings.
FENSA
Registered Company
Market leaders in conservatory technology
21-48 November 11.indd 43
43
7 YEAR GUARANTEE on Worcester Bosch boilers, available until the end of All plumbing and heating work considered 2011
Call now for free quote Servicing and landlord safety checks at competitive prices
Tel: 07734 458305 or 01793 688097 Please call or text for immediate response.
Grange
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EST 1989
Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms • Extensive range of styles • Complete installation or supply only • All makes of appliances • Competitive prices FREE design and quotations Contact: Steve Crocker
Tel: 01793 848405 or 07793 932481
Buy a conservatory and get up to £2,000 Free*
www.grangekitchens.co.uk
CANE FURNITURE
SALE
NOW ON
towards any combination of: • Cane - Rattan - Hardwood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters Low cost finance available - subject to status
BUY NOW TO BE INSTALLED BEFORE CHRISTMAS!
Visit our show site at:
Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor Swindon SN2 2QJ
01793 526691 conservatoryworld@btconnect.com
www.conservatorycentres.co.uk
*Terms and conditions apply
21/10/2011 10:36
44
Milestone Building Services
NO JOB TOO SMALL
Complete Property Renovations & Alterations Kitchens / Bathroom Tiling / Flooring Brickwork / Blockwork Paving / Patios Fencing / Decking & Ground Works Carpentry / Plumbing
For a prompt friendly professional service
All Building Works Undertaken No job too small • Free estimates
Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393
Contact: Dean Scanlon Telephone: 01793 422032 Mobile: 077 8968 1536
Make your house a home
Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?
Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance
\
A local reliable & friendly service
Willing & Able
Property Services
217129
24 years experience Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓
For all your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on
01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk
• Plumbing and heating • Landlord safety checks & system upgrades • Kitchens & bathrooms • Power flushing and water softeners • Plastering and rendering • All interior & exterior maintenance work undertaken All work planned, scheduled & guaranteed
For friendly advice call
01793 324026 or 07533 749104
www.willingandablepropertyservices.co.uk
Carpentry & Renovation Services • Supply and fit kitchens • Fitted wardrobes • Replacement doors, staircases and handrails • Supply and fit decking • Laminate & solid flooring
Call 07891 933420 or 01793 491046 www.CRS-carpentry.co.uk
Then call
TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com
RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES
• Kitchen/Bathroom Installations • Painting & Decorating • Plumbing • Tiling • Minor Electrical • Carpentry • Garden landscaping/Maintenance • Patios & Decking
Tel: 01793 721677 Mobile 07919415849
Electrical (Part P registered) Plumbing Painting & Decorating Tiling • Plastering Carpentry • Cabinet Making • Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable
Call Andrew on 07718 022201
West Swindon Plumbing
• 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
21-48 november 11.indd 44
Call Charlie for a free no obligation quote on all your plumbing needs Covering Swindon and surrounding areas No job too small from leaking taps, dripping overflows, broken toilets, outside taps, radiators, pumps, emersion heaters to complete bathrooms. All at competitive rates.
07766 565458 01793 432512
Haydon Wick Heating Services
All heating and plumbing works undertaken
• Full central heating systems • Boiler changes / services and repairs • Power flushing • Full bathroom / ensuite installations • General plumbing works • Free quotes and realistic prices
Tel: 01793 748333 Mob: 07733897039
hwheating@googlemail.com
Home Improvement Specialist
DL Property Services
For All Your Property Maintenance Requirements
• Artex covered smooth • Plastering ceiling & walls • Re-boarding • Stud partition walls • Kitchen & bathroom installations • Wall & floor tiling • Laminate & wood floor installation • UPVC windows & doors • Full house refurbishments Free estimates. Quality service guaranteed Call David on 07796 262942 or 01793 702742 dlpropertyservices@yahoo.co.uk
Ashdown Bathrooms & Kitchens
Design to Installation • PLUMBING • CARPENTRY • TILING • Electrics
All Work Guaranteed. Quality Finish And Attention To Detail Is Assured. No Job Too Small
Call Mark: 01793 887766 Mob: 07979 267757
www.bathrooms-swindon.co.uk FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION & ESTIMATE
21/10/2011 14:59
45
The Fitting Crew UPVC, Facia and Guttering Specialists
We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey Local family business 19 years experience Repairs & cleaning No job too small All work guaranteed
NO MORE PAINTING - DEAL DIRECT
J.S
doctor glass
& property maintenance
repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows.
Fitted Kitchens/Bedrooms Replacement Doors Laminate and Solid Floors General building Maintenance Decking
Call John for a free estimate on 01793 434442 or 07528 593223
Also hinges and locks.
Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671
01793 725155
NO JOB TOO SMALL
Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering
PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES
Building/Groundworks & Hard Landscaping Extensions, Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Patios All building work undertaken All work guaranteed, FREE quote and advice
Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597
Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with
TileSure
Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed
Semi-retired Plumber
General Building Services Including Extensions Loft Conversions Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating
24hr emergency call out • Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Complete bathrooms refitted • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in • Radiators changed
Call Pete
Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772
Tel: 01793 612499 Mob: 07790 283186
Advertise in the town’s most closely read publication. Call 01793 602540 for details www.swindonlink.com
21-48 November 11.indd 45
• Extensions • Driveways • Conservatories • Patios • Garden Walls • Fencing All general building and landscaping projects undertaken NO JOB TOO SMALL Call Stewart on
01793 728039 or 0784 182 6390 for a Free Estimate
Qualified tradesman, 28 years experience
PB Plastering & Bricklaying
impact swindon
For a FREE no obligation quote call now on 07874 021004 or 01793 701797
ALL SEASONS 24 HR
J’s Electrical ✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing
Fitted Kitchens Bathrooms & Bedrooms Tiling & Worktops Laminate Flooring Skirtings & Architraves Dados & Coving Doors & Decking And much more
HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE • 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
Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949
24/7 Emergency Call Out • All Works Guaranteed • Reliable & Affordable
❖ 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
Advert.indd 1
Swindon’s Heating & Plumbing Specialists • Full Central Heating Installations • Boiler Replacement, Servicing & Repair • All Plumbing & Maintenance Services • Full Bathroom Installations • Landlord & Letting Agent Services • Renewable Energy Installations
01793 878636
T.
523887
Power Flus hing Agent
www.CentraHeat.co.uk
CentraHeat.co.uk
www.
07739 357617
M.
02/02/2011 09:58 21/10/2011 13:51
46
BATHROOMS
BATHROOMS
BATHROOMS
BATHROOMS
Plumbing
Stylish Bathrooms 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
01793 320773 07779 006360
darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com www.stylishbathrooms.biz
No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations
Call Andy: 01793 729354
or 07900 835116
Tel: 01793 703550 Mob: 07749 862361 Built upon Quality & Service
Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051
REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs
De cor ato r
ain te
• 20 years experience • Competitive rates • No job too small • Reliable & friendly service • Free estimates
Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043
EP
INTERIOR H EXTERIOR WALLPAPERING H COVING H
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INTERIOR & EXTERIOR
r&
FREE ESTIMATES
HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating
Locksmith & Handyman Services • All lock problems solved • Locks supplied • Free quotes • Mobile keycutting • No call out fee • Handyman service • 15 years experience
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Discover The Link online @
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Talk to us about combined advertising
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21-48 November 11.indd 46
Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained
tCentral heating installations tAll Plumbing work undertaken tServicing & repairs tBathroom Installations All at competitive rates
Alec McKay Tel: 01793 873697 Mobile: 07963 953439
E-mail: alecmckay@sky.com
215153
PAINTER & DECORATOR
TREVOR WYSE
For your ‘Superior Interior’
• Wallpaper specialist • Coving • Tiling
Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023
email: trevorwyse@btinternet.com
• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & Tiling • Power showers • Outside taps All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices
fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, 302877 machines installed
Free estimates
01793 876600 07748 964433
Approved Plumber
mjplumbing64@gmail.com
DECORATOR
DECORATOR
HEATING & PLUMBING
HANDYMAN
For a free estimate call Sean on
ID
• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations
DECORATOR
❉ Quality bathroom suites
• Bathroom renovations • Kitchen renovations • Wall/floor tiling • All types of plumbing works • Carpentry/joinery work
PR
DECORATOR & CARPENTRY
& Heating
A CHANGE OF COLOUR
PAINTING AND DECORATING
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 UK Registered ✓ Full public liability insurance
Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307
HEATING & PLUMBING RJ PeaRce
Plumbing & Heating ltd 20 years experience in plumbing work
• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers
• Competitive rates • All work guaranteed
Reg: 128966
Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367
• No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606
PLASTERING
PLASTERING
Forest Plastering Services
KTL
Internal & external All aspects covered Drylining & coving Artexing & patch repairs Painting & decorating Building & maintenance CRB cleared
CALL FREE - 0800 0320588 or 07876 505448
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
21/10/2011 09:43
47
BUILDING SERVICES
BUILDING SERVICES
Galaxy Construction Ltd
Paul Rhind
4 4 4 4 4 4
Extensions Conservatories Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving
For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094
DECORATOR
Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted
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
UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807
Free estimates Call Jamie on 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk
For free estimate call Paul on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236
HOME MAINTENANCE G R SERVICES Painting and decorating Carpentry services Grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Kitchen installations Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive
Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879
Amazing composite door sale now on! From £735 inclusive of fitting. Range of colours and glass styles • UPVC door offers also available Trusted, professional, local service • 10 year guarantee Credit cards welcome • Free personal quote • T’s & C’s apply
Call now while stocks lasts
Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981
HOME MAINTENANCE
Steve George
(Household Maintenance) Handyman
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
GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS
❇ ❇ ❇
Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921
Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776
Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526
Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717
KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES
Services
• Plastering • Carpentry • Garden Maintenance, • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Fencing & Patios • Power Jetting • Building, installing partition walls,
✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION
Windows Doors Conservatories 01793 886265 or 01793 876460 w w w.clearcutupvcltd.co.uk
HOUSEMARTIN
21-48 November 11.indd 47
Free no obligation quotes
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
TILING
● Felt roofing ● Asphalt roofing ● Sheet roofing ● Tiling ● Slating ● Single Ply ● Fascia ● Guttering
❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted
SAFE & SHAW
ROOFING The Roofing Specialist
J&R Carpentry Services
ELECTRICIAN
DOUBLE GLAZING
Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating High quality experienced workmanship All work undertaken A friendly reliable service with references available Full Public Liability Insurance cover
CARPENTRY
for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364
ALL KITCHENS FITTED
(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)
• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite
COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture APPROVED
30 years experienced tradesman
TILING
LJ TILING WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST Kitchens, bathrooms, conservatories and all natural stone. Call Leon for a quote on: Tel: 01793 524147 Mob: 07919255673
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
21/10/2011 09:44
48
ACCOUNTANCY
ACCOUNTANCY
ACCOUNTANCY
CJD ACCOUNTANCY LTD
S J BAKER ACCOUNTING LTD CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Qualified Accountant Over 20 year’s experience For all your accountancy and taxation needs Sole Traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies. Fixed Fee Quotes and No VAT First consultation free
Self Assessments Limited company set up Contractor and Company Accounts Partnership and Sole Trader Accounts Corporation Tax Bookkeeping and Payroll * FIXED FEES * NO VAT * * FREE CONSULTATION * * AVAILABLE EVENINGS AND WEEKENDS *
C J Dell FCCA
Tel: 01793 343255
Mobile: 07557 399987
Email: cjd.accountancy@virginmedia.com
CARPET CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING
Abacus Cleaning Services Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery
Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal Fully Insured, NCCA member Independently owned & operated To arrange for a free estimate call
01793 421802
www.abacuscleaningswindon.co.uk
CLEARANCE
The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist
• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable
You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com
COMPUTER SUPPORT
S J BAKER FCCA
TELEPHONE: 01793 495559 MOBILE: 07717 752116
email: info@sjbakeraccounting.co.uk
CLEANING
Mandy’s Maid to Clean Services Too busy to clean?
We provide a reliable, affordable service and can offer: Weekly or Fortnightly cleans Spring cleans All equipment and supplies provided, and full CRB checked references available Call Amanda today for your Free Quotation on:
01793 701797 or 07874 021005 Quality is not only assured; it’s guaranteed!
COMPUTER SUPPORT
Computer problems? Let us help
Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points NO VAT
Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724
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
IRONING
Tel: 01793 734414
OVEN CLEANING
Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981
Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves
Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £35 - Range £55 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call
Showroom:
Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR
21-48 November 11.indd 48
✭ ✭ ✭ ✭
steamersswindon@hotmail.co.uk
GARAGE DOORS
Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com
aerials & satellite systems
• Friendly & efficient • 24 hour turnaround • Affordable prices • Collection & delivery service • 50% discount on first order
Tel: 01793 325685
Call 01793 602540 for details
Chris Payne
STEAMERS Ironing Service
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
ADVERTISING WITH IMPACT
AERIAL SERVICES
www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk
01793 602550 or email:
oven@enlan.co.uk
21/10/2011 10:39
49
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
BOOK-KEEPING
HALE SKILLS
Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work?
• Washing Machines • Cookers
Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service
Tel: 01793 469300
• Dishwashers • Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience
‘Nick’ll Fix It’
Call 07963 131429
e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com
CLEARANCE
Don’t use a skip - use us! We charge ONLY for the junk we remove and our rates Include ALL loading and DISPOSAL FEES
0800 6899988 or 07563 181500 email: enquiries@absolute-rubbish.co.uk www.absolute-rubbish.co.uk
BROKEN OR FAULTY LOCK? LOCKED OUT? Local Locksmith and Carpenter Not a call centre with huge charges! Genuine 24hr service
Call now on 07734 253189 Registered Company CRB Checked/Fully Insured
OVEN CLEANING
SWINDON OVEN CLEANING
The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service
To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves also undertaken
21-48 November 11.indd 49
Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748
www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk
ProClean h h h h h h h h
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Swindon Domestic and Commercial End of Tenancy Cleaning Stain Removal Hard Floor Cleaning & Sealing Quality Products Used Quick Drying Free Competitive Quote Fully Insured
Mobile: 07506 740921
www.procleancleaningservices.co.uk
Do we need an older peoples forum?
View our prices online • House clearance • Rubbish removal • Sofas and furniture • Shed removal • Confidential waste
LOCKSMITH
Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.
CARPET CLEANING
GARAGE DOORS
Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Estate, Swindon SN2 2PQ
Tel 01793 878176 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.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
Are you 55 or over? Then come and have your say and find out more at an open meeting on Tuesday 1 November, 1.45pm to 4pm at Gorse Hill Community Centre, Chapel Street, Swindon SN2 8DA. Refreshments will be provided on arrival and transport is available for those with mobility problems. The meeting includes a presentation from Age UK on ‘More Money in Your Pocket.’ For more information contact Dave Brown: dave.abrown@btinternet. com or call 612037
Looking for ‘Goosie’
A reader has contacted us to say she has received a returned letter sent to someone in Oxford but it has been sent back to the incorrect address. The reader has searched for leads in the phone book and looked for road names which are similar. The letter refers to a recent relationship, describes a very sad story and contains personal items. The only clue so far is that it has been sent by someone calling themselves ‘Goosie’ and has a Swindon-postmark. If you are this person, or know somebody who has this nickname, please mail publisher@swindonlink.com and we will forward your message to the reader who will ascertain from your description of the letter whether you are the person in question.
Concern for barbed wire in open spaces From Mrs B.A. Baker of Sleaford Close, Grange Park I walk my four dogs every day in the area of Shaw Ridge, West Swindon, as I have done for the last four years. Milo, my English Springer dismay therefore when I received Spaniel, is exercised off lead and, a letter which stated that ‘Swindon true to the nature of the breed, he Borough Council does not attempt loves nothing better than to charge to remove remnant barbed wire around the fields and in and out of from its open spaces.’ The letter points out that, ‘the Council transthe bushes. Recently as he was running fers, owns and adopts hundreds of through the bushes I heard him miles of old field boundaries’ and yelp. I noticed that he had a very that ‘the logistics of removing the serious injury to his under side, wire is just too great.’ I fully appreciate that finances close to his genitals and on closer inspection of the area he came out and resources are tough for all of I saw a large piece of barbed wire. councils, but given that I could He had to have almost 20 stitches even direct a council worker to the and the vet told me that he had exact areas where the barbed wire is located (and not to mention the nearly severed a major artery. When I called Swindon Council amount of money being saved by to explain what had happened and turning off vast numbers of the to suggest they had an obligation street lights in Swindon in the guise to remove hazards such as barbed of saving energy), surely it’s not too wire I thought I got a very positive much to ask is it? Being more alert to such dangers, response from the lady who answered, saying ‘how awful it was’ I have noticed barbed wire in many and that she agreed that ‘the council locations around Shaw Ridge. Milo can’t be the only dog to have become needed to sort it out.’ Imagine my disappointment and injured in this way?
21/10/2011 15:01
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swindonlink.com • November 2011
New North church team in place
Mobile Hairdresser Mobile: 07970 079681 Home: 01793 323400
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Stitches Sewing Service
Over 170 people from around the country attended the induction of three church workers to the Parish of St Andrew, North Swindon at St Francis Primary School, Taw Hill, on Monday 3 October. Ven Caroline Baston is the new and we’re delighted to be here transitional priest for St Andrew, and we’re hoping to build on Blunsdon, along with Rev Anne what has been working across Faulkner as parish vicar, and the parish. “The population at 22,000 schools’ worker Mark Tidey based and growing is very large; being at St Francis. They are in place for three years to a new area and the times we live work with the largest congregation in, many are overwhelmed by the demands of life in Swindon. “With fewer paid clergy From right, Rev Anne Faulkner, Mark Tidey Caroline said, “the church has and Ven Caroline Baston had a difficult time in North Swin- in the future, but people still don, having been without a vicar looking to the church for spiritual the diocese on how the church can since November 2009. I’m very im- support, guidance and a listening work differently in the community.” pressed with the team at St Francis ear, our task is both to provide the To contact the parish call 702715. support people want and report to www.nschurch.org.uk
LK TUITION
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Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc.
Need help with English? Confused with Spelling and Grammar? Book a free initial session
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Dressmaking, Alterations and Repairs, Bespoke Costumes
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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
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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
Sunday school on offer by post
The way we spend Sundays has changed and fewer children have the opportunity of attending Sunday School, so retired RE teacher Irving Winson who attends Wootton Bassett Methodist Church, is setting up one through the post. The lessons including tests are Bible, such as the King James, the free and are sent out every four Good News and the New Internaweeks. They are then returned to tional Version. The Postal Sunday School movehim for marking, and a fresh set is sent out. The lessons are non- ment was started in 1958 and there denominational and are produced are an estimated 100,000 pupils in UK and twenty other countries. by Bible Educational Services. Contact Mr Winson for details and They are graded for age 4 upwards to adult and they can be used an application form on 772898 or with any of the main versions of the mail: irvingwinson@btinternet.com
St. John’s Haydon Wick
On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258
Sunday 9am Services 11am
Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk
We will provide trained teams to pray for you. We do not offer advice or counselling. Everything is confidential, there is no charge and no appointment is needed. We are part of a Christian organisation, the International Association of Healing Rooms.
Open to all, serving tea, coffee, cakes & light lunches Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 2pm
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
Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School
Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church
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21/10/2011 10:37
swindonlink.com • November 2011
Call for caring Christmas volunteers Swindon Christmas Care will again provide temporary shelter for homeless and lonely people and those in need over the Christmas period from 2pm on Saturday 24 December until Wednesday 28 December, 11am, at Queen’s Drive Methodist Church. Reliable volunteers and shift leaders are needed to help run the project. Preparation meetings take place at 8pm on Thursday 10 November and Wednesday 16 November. Details of how and when to donate items such as blankets, towels, clothing, toiletries, food and money to the project will be published in the December Link. For more information call Patsy Maloney on 642368.
Soup runners wanted by homeless charity
Threshold, Swindon’s homelessness charity, is looking for participants to run to their emergency hostel in the centre of town, to deliver tins of soup and food as part of their annual Soup Run event on Thursday 3 November to re-stock their larder for the busy winter period. There is no set distance, runners and support up to another 50 a day just need to arrive with their tins at their Breakfast Club Day Centre at Culvery Court, Harding Street, and the Filling Station. Phil Smith, operations director at between 4.30pm and 7.30pm. This is a free to enter event and it Threshold said, “we are encouragis also an opportunity to raise funds ing people of all ages and fitness for the charity through sponsorship. levels to enter in teams or as indiAs an incentive there will be t-shirts viduals to challenge each other as for people who raise £10 or more in well as themselves on what is sure to be a cold, dark evening to raise sponsorship. Threshold serves two hot meals vital funds and food supplies for every day to thirty residents in the winter.” www.thl.org.uk their hostel and move-on houses
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Bill over £50 and above get 1 complimentary meal on next visit FREE bottled of House Wine for party booking 10 people peaple or above. For booking please call:
01793 877888
Address: Pepperbox Hill Meadway Peatmoor West Swindon www.oriental-buffet.com SWINDON SN5 5YZ
Everything including the kitchen sink
Opening Times & Prices Lunch
Monday – Saturday 12noon - 3pm
£5.95
Dinner Gateway Furniture project organisers Kevin and Dawn Prosser and centre, James Dawson
Household items, furniture, toys, games and bric-a-brac were on offer free of charge at Westlea’s Gateway Church give or take community exchange day in mid-October. The aim was to assist low income families pick up anything they might need and to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. Gateway Furniture Project welcomes donations, particularly beds and white goods in working order. Call 526130 to arrange a free collection.
Old clothes help children’s charity Clothes for Cash has opened a recycling facility at a depot on the Westmead Estate, Westlea and is offering cash for old clothes whilst supporting the Five Stars Appeal. Cash for Clothes founder Abe Smith said, “clothes collections have had a bad reputation due to gangs pretending to be collecting for good causes so we were delighted
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to have found a registered charity which will make the best of every pound that we donate.” The Five Stars Appeal has a 34 year history and has patrons including Sir Alex Ferguson, actor Steve Arnold and Take That. To arrange to donate clothing call 0845 519 8513. www.fivestarsappeal.co.uk
Monday – Saturday 5.30pm - 11.30pm
£9.95
Allday Sunday
12noon - 11pm
£9.95
Others Information:
* Children under 1.4m / 4’7” Eat for half price * The Management reserves the right to make changes without prior notice.
This voucher entitles you for £5 off when you spend £20 or above in a single receipt Expiry date 30th November 2011
21/10/2011 10:37
Shape up and Shop! Free Love2shop vouchers worth £25* All inclusive Leisure Passports with unlimited off-peak access to: • 5 Gyms • 6 Swimming Pools • 100+ Fitness Classes • Ice Skating • Health Suite • Turkish Baths • Climbing Wall • Athletics Track Offer available 29.10.11 until 04.12.11 *Terms and conditions apply
www.swindon.gov.uk/love2shop