October 2016 North West Swindon Link

No 413 October 2016

Est. overall readership across Swindon: 100,000

North and West Swindon Edition

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Sport & Leisure: P32-39

Oliver Tomkins Primary School goes pop with corridor art installation - Page 16

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Created in Swindon. New National Trust veggie recipe book on sale Vegetarian cookery has been made a whole lot easier with the launch of Veggie Comfort Food by food writer and nutritional therapist Josephine Ashby. Known to visitors who have enjoyed her catering at Lower Shaw Farm in West Swindon as Josie, she has brought together more than 100 hearty tried and tested recipes which are fuss-free, quick to make and full of flavour. At the book launch at the farm on 6 September, National Trust director of publishing Katie Bond said: “If ever there was a book grounded in its community, it’s Josie’s Veggie Comfort Food. When I joined the National Trust and started to visit the HQ in Swindon, I stayed at Lower Shaw. “After several visits I realised what delicious vegetarian dishes were being served and started thinking a recipe book would be a great addition to the National Trust offer, a book that would appeal to vegetarians, vegans and people who are just having a meat-free Monday. “Andrea Hirsch, who runs the farm with Matt Holland, suggested I talk to Josie and two years on, we have

Josie Ashby with her recipe book

a brilliant book, based on a great story going back many years.” Josie commented: “The book is the culmination of 25 years’ cooking. I really enjoyed bringing the recipes together and would like to thank Andrea and Matt for giving me the chance to develop my experience. “I hope the book will become an old friend which people can turn to for quick easy recipes and inspire cooks to be creative with them.” Veggie Comfort Food is available at £18.99 from Swindon Pulse in Curtis Street and National Trust shops across Britain. See the full story with videos at: www.bit.ly/LSF-VCF

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Community News

Campaign Shirley push to reach breast cancer champion’s target Eunice Salmon writes: As we approach Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s incredible to think that on 7 September it was seven years since we lost Shirley Garman, a founder member of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, who formed a local branch in Swindon to support people who were suffering as she had. Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Campaign recently merged to become Breast Cancer Now, the UK’s largest breast cancer charity with the simple ambition of finding a way to stop women dying from this disease. When she set up the Swindon branch, Shirley vowed to raise £1 million to help fund research into breast cancer and achieved almost three quarters of her goal. On her passing her friends committed to achieve the £1 million in her honour and, as at December 2015, the total had reached a magnificent £905,105 leaving less than £95,000 to be raised. The local network Shirley built is very much in existence and our ambition now is to raise the final amount by the tenth anniversary of Shirley’s death. I’m appealing for anyone who fondly remembers her

Director: James Phipps Group Editor: Jamie Hill Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Mike Barham Sales: Dave Stewart & Rosy Presley Photography: Richard Wintle www.calyxpix.com

ADVERTISING Call 01793 781502 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for November adverts and editorial: 12 October October edition published: 28 October

Positive Media Group Limited, Unit 3, Arclite House, Century Road, Swindon SN5 5YN T: 01793 744677 E: publisher@swindonlink.com

Breast cancer campaigner Shirley Garman, above. Eunice Salmon below

and her fantastic attitude to life to renew their efforts and help achieve her goal. There are so many ways to help Campaign Shirley. Nominate us as your company or organisation Charity of the Year in 2017 or 2018. You could host a coffee morning or cake bake, knit or crochet us tombola prizes, hold a raffle or a quiz, or paint your street pink by getting everyone to decorate their windows with pink fairy lights in October - Breast Cancer Awareness month. Or just take part by joining our mailing list to hear about events such as curry evenings, quizzes and pamper nights. Please contact me to offer your support or to request suggestions. Individuals or their families and friends who have been affected by breast cancer and want to fight back in a positive way are very welcome to join Campaign Shirley. For details mail: eunice.salmon@ btinternet.com

Mad March Hares go quizzical to celebrate a decade helping breast cancer charities The volunteer organisers of the annual Mad March Hare fun run and walk around Lydiard Park will be celebrating the event’s tenth year on 26 March 2017 and are promising the zaniest ever event. And they want you to join them to help break through their £100,000 target in aid of Breast Cancer Now. Over the last 9 years the Swindon and North Wilts branch has raised £93,000. To launch their next

Proud partner of

fundraising leap, supporters are being asked to get hare brained at a quiz night on Wednesday 9 November, 7.30pm, in the Winners Lounge at Swindon Town FC. Form a team of 6 to 8 members or join one on arrival. Tickets are just £6.50 each and this includes supper. A licenced bar will be open and there will be a raffle in aid of Breast Cancer Now. www.madmarchhare.org.uk

Our Statistics Est. Readership of 75,000 in print & c.15,000 monthly online visitors. Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £57. 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. Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers. Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford

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meadowparkschool.co.uk swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News Get into music Swindon Male Voice Choir will be performing a concert in aid of Dressability on Saturday 15 October, 7.30pm, at Gateway Church Centre, Stonewall Green, West Swindon. Tickets at £8 are available from 01793 512878 or mail@dressability.org.uk www.dressability.org.uk

Join the world record attempt to launch a new Swindon charity

Swindon Community Choir invites new members to join. There are no auditions and no sheet music. With help from skilled and encouraging leaders, it’s all about learning from each other. Sing-ins take place on Monday evenings at Central Community Centre in the Railway Village and Tuesday afternoons at Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon. For details contact Linda Lee on 01793 875184 or 07750 811873. www.singtastic.swindon.co.uk Singers wanted to join a mass Messiah choir at Christ Church, Old Town on Saturday 12 November in aid of the Brighter Futures Radiotherapy appeal. See details at: www.wroughtonchoralsociety.co.uk

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Having a ball at the last mass fitness workout in 2014

Five hundred people are needed to bring a Guinness world record to Swindon for the largest number of participants in a Swiss ball exercise class. Taking place at David Lloyd in North Swindon on Saturday 1 October, the mass fitness workout marks the launch of the Younite Foundation, a new charity focussed on providing support and life changing opportunities for local children and young adults up to the age of 21. Participation is free, but a £10 donation to take part is requested and this includes being able to take the ball home. The proceeds of the event will be

distributed by Younite to: • Jessie May, a Children’s Hospice at Home. Working in Swindon since early 2016, they currently support 22 local children and their families; • Bios, the Swindon based youth work project; • Melon Mission, an outreach project supported by Swindon volunteers helping to build a school for orphans and destitute children in Kenya. Get on the ball and help Swindon enter the record books, exercise to launch a new charity and also raise money for three local good causes. Register to take part as soon as possible at: www.ballsbounceback.co.uk

swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News

Strong opposition to Lydiard Park housing The campaign to persuade Wiltshire Council to reject Taylor Wimpey’s application to build houses close to Lydiard Park has resulted in more than 400 letters of objection. The developer says it's done all it can to make sure the 48 houses proposed in the vale below St Mary’s Church, one field from Lydiard Park will be an asset to the community. But the Lydiard Park Heritage Action Group is mounting concerted pressure calling for the historic rural setting of the park be preserved. Chair Kevin Fisher said: “The Swindon planning core strategy is clear that the boundary to the west should remain as it is whilst Wiltshire’s Local Plan warns against unplanned development proposals to the west of the town. Both planning authorities have made it clear that heritage assets should be protected against intrusive development.” Steven Neal, senior planning manager for Taylor Wimpey Oxfordshire, said: “Following extensive public consultation over 18 months, our planning application has now been submitted to Wiltshire Council for determination later in the year.

“We have sought to involve Lydiard Tregoze residents and stakeholders throughout this process to ensure that the scheme is in line with the aspirations and priorities of the local community as far as possible.” Lydiard Tregoze Parish Council, which represents some 800 residents mainly around the hamlet of Hook, three miles from Swindon, have declared support for the proposal. Taylor Wimpey has offered to gift 50 per cent of their land holding to the parish council and it is thought they are considering it could be suitable for allotments and a burial ground. Kevin Fisher commented: “Given the distance of Lydiard Tregoze residents to the site, it is hard to understand why they feature so high on the consultation list.” “This is a trojan horse application. Developers have options on most of the green fields between Swindon and Purton. If this site is permitted outside the terms of the Wiltshire Local Plan, we will see a flood of applications to build westwards.” The application can be viewed and comments made until the end of October at: www.bit.ly/LPTWplan The reference is16/06978/FUL

swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News

Alternative solution to Swindon Borough Council library plan proposed by staff and campaign group The campaign group Save Swindon’s Libraries has backed an alternative staff proposal to combat the challenges faced by Swindon Borough Council concerning their libraries budget. A statement from the group says: “Swindon Libraries have a long history of supporting residents and improving life chances and opportunities. They play an essential role in the social, educational and cultural value of our communities: for families, children and young people; for students, job-seekers, older people, and community groups. “This proposal acknowledges the Library Strategy presented to council, July 2016. We also acknowledge the financial pressure facing the council, the reduction in the central government grant, and the increasing demands for adult social care and children’s services. “However, Swindon Libraries are well placed to reinforce the council’s vison and pledges including supporting education, generating economic growth, and enabling self-sufficient communities.”

The alternative proposals include a revision to the council proposal for four core libraries to five, that would include Park Library, and to not reduce working hours of any core library lower than 27 hours a week. To see the full alternative proposal, visit swindonlink.com. Petitions to save libraries in areas across Swindon have been created, including the Save Park Library petition, which call upon the council to amend their proposal only to continue funding to four of Swindon’s 15 libraries after June 2017. This amendment, if adopted, would see Park Library added to the core provision to secure the future of a service in the south of Swindon. A spokesperson for Save Swindon Libraries said: “The annual cost of running Park Library on its current hours is just under £90,000, an enormous target for community groups in the area to reach. The proposal that a local group or a newly-formed parish council could take this on is unrealistic. “Talks have been held between the Libraries team at Swindon Borough Council, local councillors,

Save Swindon’s Libraries who are backing the alternative staff proposals

residents and campaigners to find a solution to maintain Park Library in its present location on Cavendish Square. “The overwhelming response from library users is that Park Library brings footfall to businesses and is a community focal point for residents from Park North and South and beyond. “A comprehensive and efficient library service must include a council-run library in the south of Swindon. Save Swindon’s Libraries met with the MP for Swindon South, Robert Buckland QC MP,

who is also concerned for the future of Park Library.” A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “The submission from library staff was received during the current consultation process and will be considered along with all other consultation responses. “The council has always been open to looking at alternative models and will assess the staff submission, and all others that are received, in detail once the consultation period has ended on 30 September.”

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Bring along your portable items for a FREE valuation with Thomas, OR members of his team from Special Auction Services

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swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News

Swindon areas react to borough council parishing decision As reported in the September edition of Swindon Link, Swindon Borough Council has given the green light to plans for parishing all of Swindon, creating four new parished areas: West Swindon, Central North, Central South and South Swindon. The community governance review launched in September 2015 has included several months of public meetings, with many community groups and residents associations offering views on how parishing would work in their areas. For example, Nythe Parish Council would be asked to take on the areas of Eldene and Liden, whilst Blunsdon St Andrew would be carved into two separate councils, split by the A419. The new parish councils would take on borough responsibilities such as grass cutting, graffiti and litter clearance, with each deciding how many of these services they will take on. As Swindon Borough Council seeks to reduce costs by 2020, responsibilities could also include management of community centres and libraries. The borough council has been in talks with businesses with regards to a voluntary £400,000 contribution towards some of

the additional cost that would be incurred in the newly formed Central South and Central North parishes, but nothing has been confirmed. Councillor Mary Martin, cabinet member for communities, said: “We are now in to the period of

Blunsdon/ St Andrew’s

Central South Swindon

Cllr Vera Tomlinson - Ward councillor for St Andrew’s:

Colin Doubleday - community campaigner in Old Town:

- Called for a separate St Andrew’s parish in 2015 and collected 900 signatures from residents to split from Blunsdon Parish Council. “The residents of St Andrew’s feel little commonality with those in Blunsdon and think that the large amounts of money spent in the village to keep it virtually pristine mainly comes from those living in the St Andrew’s new builds.”

Ian Jankinson - Blunsdon St Andrew Parish Council chair:

“It is very disappointing that the borough has not even organised a meeting in the Blunsdon area regarding these changes as part of their consultation events. We’ve had to hastily arrange a meeting for our householders. “We are supportive of parishing and see the benefits, potentially giving people more community support at a local level. But there is no need to split an existing parish council into two seperate authorities when things have been working very well so far as one.”

“Across Swindon there are facilities that are used by people from the mainly residential suburbs. Old Town has a range of attractions including the Town Gardens, nightlife streets and the Lawns Central area has Queens Park, Theatre Square and the shopping area. Each bring in people from across the town. “It is strange to ask a parish to manage the upkeep of these attractions alone for the benefit of the wider town. “With these maps, we are left with a series of bizarre anomalies such as the pubs and restaurants at the top of Victoria Road placed in different parishes to their neighbours on Wood Street and Devizes Road. “We should not be pitting community against community, but instead covering the largest area possible. “We should be defining communities by what they do together and how they can help each other, not by those they define as ‘different’.”

the consultation where we have completed the house by house drop of information leaflets and will be going full tilt to collate and analyse the responses to be put before cabinet at the start of November. “I am aware of comments on the delivery of the leaflets via

Royal Mail, but it was the most cost effective way of ensuring guaranteed delivery to every home; certainly better than commissioning a group to deliver the information themselves.” The leader of Swindon Labour Group, Cllr Jim Grant, said: “The council’s parishing consultation remains a huge frustration for residents who have taken part in them. In spite of residents’ feedback the council have continued to ignore comments. “As the Conservative administration ruled out giving residents the final say through a referendum, Labour councillors have now started holding public meetings where we are giving residents a say on parishes through a mini-referenda. “These public meetings have had hundreds of residents in attendance. By an unanimous vote, residents have said they don’t want new parishes across the town and if we have to have parishes, then it should be one single parish not five different parishes. We would urge the council to take heed of residents’ views and not show contempt for their opinion.”

Nythe and South Swindon

West Swindon

Shirley Ludford - Liden resident and Swindon 105.5 broadcaster:

“My personal view is to question the benefits and costs. I understand the local authority cannot increase council tax as much as they need to, but setting up parish councils comes at a cost. I don’t believe sufficient information is being given to Swindon residents or see how ‘public consultation’ will make any difference. Comments have been made that dealing with the council can be convoluted, so a smaller authority could bring more direct action on local issues.”

Badbury Park Residents Association:

“Badbury Park already comes under Chiseldon Parish Council. Non-parished areas of Swindon have their portion of the council bill capped at 2 per cent unlike Chiseldon who raised theirs for 2016/2017 by 100 per cent.This money is not spent in Badbury Park due to our existing deal with a management company that maintains our area. Our money goes to maintaining Chiseldon, which is an unfair anomaly”

Derek Lowson - Westlea Residents Association:

“Westlea Residents Association is waiting for more definitive information on the likely cost of the change. “At the September locality meeting, a figure of £47 was mentioned by councillor Mary Martin, but Swindon Borough Council minutes from June show Highworth residents are paying around £118 per annum. “The consultation process seems to be, like previous ones, a cloak to cover a decision which has already been made, to get round caps on council tax by introducing a parish council precept that can be raised or lowered at the parish’s discretion. “It is not obvious why parish councils should be more costeffective than Swindon Borough Council, apart from the latter’s appallingly bad record in the commercial area. “Also, why could we not have one parish council for the nonparished areas, giving economies of scale, and some protection in the event of unexpectedly high liabilities?” swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News

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Produced by the team at Swindon’s National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC), the UK’s only permanent visitor centre for self builders and home improvers, The Big Green Home Show returns this month. The show builds on the topics covered at the NSBRC’s Eco Workshops, that are run throughout the year and this year there is a strong emphasis on creating a healthier living environment and offers a packed three days of demonstrations, free seminars and case studies along with a line up of experts on hand to share their advice. Whether you are looking to improve or extend your home, or buy a plot and build a brand new house, The Big Green Home Show will review the best construction methods and products to use. There are seminars from planning advice to budgeting, plot finding and

building regulations. Sue Dewhirst from Evolved Design Ltd said: “Whatever project you are considering, be it a new build, renovation or an extension, the Big Green Home Show is the place to start. The exhibitors and consultants offer free guidance and advice. It’s a learning centre with seminars and experts available to cover all areas of designing and building a home”. Over 200 exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products and technologies. There will be guided tours of the NSBRC’s fantastic educational zones, featuring a life size ‘renovation house’ and ‘new build journey’. NSBRC is located at Junction 16 of the M4 and has free parking. The show runs from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 October, tickets £12 per adult on the door. Readers can claim free tickets by booking in advance via www.nsbrc.co.uk and selecting code: Link Magazine.

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swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Community News

Fun day in North Swindon

Despite a pretty overcast morning and predictions of inclement weather, organisers had everything in place at Brook Park, Redhouse, on 3 September. Some 900 people are estimated to have enjoyed more than 42 stalls and attractions like wrap a reptile, classic cars, fair ground rides and selfies with Disney characters. Unfortunately the day was cruelly cut short by a monsoon that rushed in lashing the displays and forcing visitors to run for cover. One of the organisers John Stooke said: “A huge effort was made by a relatively small group of volunteers over nine months of planning to put on a great celebration in support of our nominated charity, Butterflies Family Centre. “The team deserves a lot of thanks for pulling a great event together. But our fundraising target was quickly dashed; don’t you just love British summertime?”

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Centre manager Louise Walker and senior physiotherapist Jan Howard trying out the new gym equipment

Swindon Therapy Centre of Multiple Sclerosis officially launches a Neurology Resource Centre for the town on 8 October, thanks to a five year Big Lottery grant of £404,000 over five years. Last year the centre successfully purchased the upper floor of Bradbury House on Westlea Drive, Westlea to allow for expansion of physiotherapy services that are so vital to people with MS and other neurological conditions. This includes state-of-the-art wheelchair user friendly gym equipment and a new Technogym circuit for those more able members of the centre.

A ground-breaking rehab treadmill to improve walking and even running is also on offer. Centre manager Louise Walker said: “We are launching two new partnerships where Swindon Carer’s staff will be on hand to provide advice and support for carers and family members. “And we are also going to be working with the Citizen’s Advice Swindon to offer advice, including financial difficulties with disability benefits. Contact Swindon Therapy Centre for MS on 01793 481700 or via www.msswindon.org.uk

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Community News Swindon Trauma Group conference

Friday 14 October: 9am to 5.30pm. Swindon Marriott Hotel Presentations will cover the history of trauma and treatments, how trauma affects people physically and psychologically and the treatments available today. The speakers are: Professor Gordon Turnbull, Sheila Beer, Rev Frank Parkinson, Dr Richard Castle, Brigitte Bodill, Kim Rayner, Robert Buckland QC MP, Dr Jo Billings and Dr Ivor Bermingham.

Refreshments and a buffet lunch are included in the cost of £30. The evening meal for attendees and speakers is £25. Proceeds to this year’s nominated charity: TWIGS (Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon) To book tickets, contact: 07505 476139 or mail: info@ swindontraumagroup.org.uk www.swindontraumagroup.org.uk

Revealing Osteoporosis Dr David Collins, consultant rheumatologist at Great Western Hospital, will be talking about latest research and treatments to Swindon Osteoporosis Support Group on Friday 14 October, 2pm. The condition affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men, over the age of 50. For venue confirmation, contact 01793 634424 or swindonosteoporosis@ googlemail.com

Every child to receive NSPCC Sadsville book Martin Roberts with the Mayor of Swindon Eric Cole and Excalibur CEO James Phipps

Fans of children’s books and BBC TV’s Homes Under the Hammer - as well people concerned that children enjoy a happy, safe life met presenter Martin Roberts at and the second takes place on Excalibur Communications HQ in Saturday 1 October, 11am, at Peatmoor on 13 September when Coate Water Country Park. There’s he launched the Wiltshire NSPCC plenty to sketch, from the Art Schools’ ‘Sadsville’ book project. Deco diving board and the lake, A father of two and a long to the surrounding parkland and standing NSPCC champion Martin countryside, as well as lots of created the Sadsville book series for people enjoying their leisure time. the society’s schools programme. No experience is necessary; It is being presented to primary learning is by working together. schools across the UK. Through Find out more about the group on special assemblies children are Facebook: Urban Sketchers Swindon
 being made aware of the support

Seeing Swindon in sketches
 Urban Sketchers Swindon is a new group inspired by the global movement. Members draw on location to tell the story of the places they live in, providing mutual support and sharing their work online. Monthly free Sketchcrawls take place in interesting and inspiring locations in and around the town. The inaugural crawl happened at the beginning of September

available if they experience bullying, neglect or abuse. Martin said: “Unfortunately, too many children suffer neglect and abuse. It is crucial that we continue to identify new ways to reach out to children so that they feel supported – particularly in their early years “The idea behind the book series is that by the end of each book the children will hopefully have learnt to find a way of solving issues that concern them in their own world.” Find out about the project by contacting: project@ morganbrinkhurstconsultancy.co.uk or call: 01225 823004.

Teacher Subject Specialism Training (TSST) The Teacher Subject Specialism Training (TSST) courses provide high quality professional development to those teaching or wanting to teach mathematics at Secondary level. The aims of the courses are to: ● Enhance your mathematical knowledge to give you confidence to teach Mathematics ● Inspire your enthusiasm for mathematics ● Provide you with motivating activities and tasks for teaching mathematics ● Enhance your pedagogical skills in teaching mathematics. This course is aimed at Secondary and Further Education teachers in numerate disciplines who are already teaching some mathematics or intending to teach mathematics or returning to teach mathematics and wanting to upgrade their mathematical skills and knowledge: ● up to and including Higher Tier GCSE Mathematics for the new syllabuses; or ● for teaching the new Core Maths curriculum for Post-16 education (these are new courses aimed at students who obtain a grade C or above at GCSE Maths but not continuing on to A or AS Mathematics). For state school teachers this course is FREE, funded through the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) and run by Commonweal School, working in partnership with Plymouth University. The Commonweal School tutors will provide face-to-face sessions throughout the year, supported by e-learning and online assessment and accreditation from CIMT at Plymouth University. There will also be access (again FREE) to a 30 credit Masters degree module: ‘Teaching Mathematics through Problem Solving.’ The introductory meeting for this course will be held at Commonweal School on: Wednesday 5th October from 1600 to 1800 hours. For further information and an application form. please visit: www.cimt.org.uk/courses/tsst or email Genny Williams: gwilliams@commonweal.co.uk

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Community News

Calling the town together as a welcoming, supporting place Swindon City of Sanctuary, which launches on Thursday 13 October, aims to build a culture of inclusion and hospitality towards refugees and asylum seekers living in the town. The Swindon coordinators want citizens to sign a pledge to help the town become offically recognised by the UK wide City of Sanctuary (CofS) movement which awards towns and cities with sanctuary status once a community is actively helping refugees to feel included within their communities. There are three different pledges: for individuals, for schools and one for businesses and community organisations. You can do this at: www.swindon.cityofsanctuary.org The launch at The Platform, Faringdon Road, will be the first event of Harbour Fest - see right. The evening will include short talks by the founder of City of Sanctuary, Swindon Amnesty, Swindon CoS and The Harbour Project. It will be followed by performances celebrating the diversity of cultures in the town, through entertainment by Kurdish singers, spoken word of refugees journey, folk singing and more.

Swindon campaigner marches on Number 10

As no event around the world can take place without sharing food, there will be delicious nibbles cooked by Harbour visitors. Swindon Cos chair Nicola Johnson said: “We hope to bring our Steve Carr delivering his petition to 10 Downing Street after walking 90 miles community together, to look at each from BBC Wiltshire offices in Swindon other as individuals who all have so much to contribute, no matter Swindon based mental health and happening and where I was going where we are from.” homelessness campaigner Steve to go from there. Carr has been trekking through the “On my journey, I visited charities, British countryside again during soup kitchens and radio stations. September, this time to deliver an My aim was to put together an extensive report based on findings extensive report on the issues with homelessness and mental health, Thursday 13 - Saturday 15 October from his walk to John O’Groats from Land’s End. both of which affect me.” A new multi-cultural arts festival Steve said: “Due to my own The report was received at to bring communities together, and personal experiences, I decided that Downing Street by a member of the raise awareness and funds for the I needed to do something before I Civil Service on 7 September after Harbour Project which welcomes Steve completed his 82.9 mile walk. and supports newly-arrived refugees lost complete control. So starting on 1 February this year I walked Steve also took part in a leg and asylum-seekers. the length of the United Kingdom of fellow Swindonian Ricardo Events include a film night and with just £100 in my pocket, a tent DeFazio’s latest cycling challenge world music disco party, a Big Gig and no planned route. I feel I had in Europe during September, raising Night and pop-up art show. no route because I was lost. I had funds for important local causes. Book tickets for all events at: no home, no job, I thought I had no Follow and support Steve Carr’s www.harbourproject.org.uk/ friends and I had no idea what was project at Facebook: Mind Canyon harbour-fest-swindon

Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Sixth Form OPEN EVENING 12 October 2016 6.00—8.30 pm 2016 Results 45%

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100% A*-E Embark on YOUR next steps to SUCCESS with RWBA Sixth Form. TALK to us about a place for 2017

Students secure degree courses at Russell Group and other acclaimed Universities Positive pathways to careers

Access a variety of Sixth Form qualifications and benefit from outstanding teaching and learning during your time with us. We offer over 40 A Level and BTEC courses. Subject staff will be available to discuss course details. Ofsted recognised ‘outstanding’ pastoral support. NEW for 2017 - Interested in Sport?—Mad Dog Rugby Academy may be for you! Contact: Hilary Stubbs at hstubbs@rwba.org.uk/01793 841905

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The dynamic Ridgeway Sixth Form College offers an exciting all-round Sixth Form experience!

Find out more come along to one of our open events: 13th October 2016, 6pm - 8pm 2nd, 9th & 16th November 2016, 9am - 10:30am

At The Ridgeway School and Sixth Form College Inverary Road, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9DJ For further information please contact: Mrs Helen Dixon, Head of Sixth Form dixonh@ridgewayschool.com www.ridgewayschool.com Tel 01793 846100

“Ridgeway To Success” Proud to be part of The White Horse Federation NW October 2016 Master Pages.indd 12

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Education News Wiltshire apprentices to receive recognition at Salisbury Cathedral ceremony

Wednesday 28th September 2016 Tuesday 11th October 2016

An information breakfast event was held at Arclite House in Peatmoor during September to give employers facts on apprenticeships

Apprentices from across Wiltshire and Swindon will be recognised at a special ceremony held in Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday 6 October. The event, which is jointly run by Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Council, Swindon College, New College Swindon, Wiltshire College, Wessex Chambers of Commerce (Inspire), the FSB and the SW Apprenticeship Ambassador Network is open to apprentices who Logo have Churchfields achieved theirAcademy apprenticeship between 1 January 2015 and 31 August 2016 (almost 2 years) and 1.

2.

Nova Hreod Academy Akers Way, Swindon, Wiltshire SN2 2NQ t 01793 52880 f 01793 549111 www.novahreodacademy.org.uk e admin@novahreodacademy.org.uk

work for organisations that have a site in Wiltshire or Swindon. Apprentices will be able to bring up to 2 guests, and their employer and training provider are also invited to attend the ceremony to celebrate with them as they collect a certificate and lanyard from David Hempleman-Adams, the renowned explorer and High Sheriff of Wiltshire, and the leaders of Swindon Borough and Wiltshire Councils. Both events are completely free to attend. For full details visit: www.inspirebiz.co.uk/gradu8. 3.

Churchfields Academy Inspiring and Creating Futures For All

Come & Join Us! Churchfields is an 11-16 secondary school situated in the beautiful area of Lawn Woods We believe that within each child there is real potential to achieve and that as teachers, it is our job to ensure that this potential is met through academic studies, creativity and a desire to believe in yourself. We take pride in the focus we give to each child as an individual and how we help them to develop and grow to achieve well and be a good citizen. Pupils enjoy their time at Churchfields and it is always a pleasure to see them leave us with the skills andqualifications that they need to prepare them for their futures ahead. We take pride in ‘inspiring and creating futures for all’. For parents with children looking to transfer to secondary in September 2017 or beyond, we are holding special tours and open mornings.

•

Open Mornings - October 3rd, 4th, 5th & 7th tours will take place from 9.00am - 11.00am

For more information please call us on 01793 487286. or visit www.churchfields.org

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Swindon College

HIGHWORTH WARNEFORD SCHOOL Shrivenham Road, Highworth SN6 7BZ

An Academy Putting Excellence First

OPEN MORNINGS/AFTERNOONS Monday 26 September to Friday 14 October Highworth Warneford is an excellent secondary school providing an outstanding learning environment which allows pupils to thrive and develop their academic, personal and social skills. In our most recent Ofsted report (May 2013) pupils’ behaviour was described as ‘outstanding both in lessons and around the school’ and such behaviour makes a ‘strong contribution to their learning’. So that you can see for yourself the quality of our provision, we would like to invite you to visit the school on a normal working day. Each visit lasts for up to 1½ hours and will give you the opportunity to see lessons and meet pupils and staff. To book your visit please contact Mrs Lewis, Admissions Officer, on (01793) 767083 or email: llewis@warneford.swindon.sch.uk

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OPEN EVENING Thursday13th October 2016 5pm - 7pm

WIiN Pad

an ini* m

Join us for our open evening and find out more about our range of full and part time courses, university level courses and Apprenticeships. • • • •

Take a tour of our industry-standard facilities Speak to one of our experienced career advisors Meet some our lecturers Find out more about life at Swindon College from current students

*Pre-register online now at www.swindon.ac.uk for a chance to WIN, or call us on (01793) 491591 for more information Swindon College, North Star Avenue, Swindon, SN2 1DY

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Education News

First children and staff at Ridgeway Farm Primary School

Happiness abounded at the brand new school built in the centre of the 700 home Ridgeway Farm development on the north western edge of Swindon, in Wiltshire. The single form entry primary run by the Diocese of Bristol Academies Trust opened with 80 children and

twelve members of staff, with more pupils arriving every day. As children are being accepted in all years, the school is providing places for families from areas where schools are full. Deputy headteacher Laura Gibbard said: “We have a lot of children from Tadpole Farm in

North Swindon where our sister school is full and expanding one year group at a time. Children are being taught in mixed age classes; as they’re in small groups they’re receiving a lot of attention. “Our first weeks have been wonderful; we’re building a lovely

school at the centre of a growing community.” The Bishop of Bristol, the Right Reverend Mike Hill, formally opened the school on 22 September. To enquire about places call 01793 677471 or mail: admin@ ridgewayfarmcea.org

Ofsted rates Taw Hill out-of-school club as outstanding Funrise before-school, after-school and holiday club, situated within St Francis Church of England Primary School in Taw Hill was graded ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED inspectors following a visit on 25 July. Sarah Barbato, Funrise’s owner, and Lorraine Ford, the club’s manager, are delighted as they have worked really hard since the last inspection to develop and enhance the care, practices and paperwork. Sarah said: “Lorraine accepted a promotion to become club manager in September 2015 and she has put one hundred per cent into her new role. She’s an amazing asset to Funrise. “Outstanding is such a hard grade to obtain. All the team have worked hard to make sure our standard of care is high and their efforts have paid off.”

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Education News

Colour all the rage as pop art brightens school corridors Pupils and staff at Oliver Tomkins Church of England Primary School in Toothill receive a daily blast of visual stimulation when they make their way to the school hall. Keen artist Hayley Kirkland, right, who is a teaching assistant at the school, was asked to brighten up a dark corridor. Taking her cue from the early 1960s pop art movement, she created a riot of colour with the

help of Swindon College art student Shannon Smith. Hayley said: “It was a lot of fun adapting and blending together design ideas from different artists like Roy Lichenstein’s dot paintings and including cupcakes in the style of Andy Warhol. Not many children know about them, but the influence started to appear in our last creative arts week.”

Callum’s dream of a becoming a Butlin’s Redcoat comes closer Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group Workfit officer Jenny Williams was delighted in July when her 15 year son Callum achieved three GCSEs, a BTEC level 2 in home cooking skills and a BTEC level 1 in the arts, but earlier in the year she was worried about his future beyond school. “We originally were looking at a mainstream college as Callum has been in mainstream education all his life,” said Jenny. “But it was clear the difference between Callum and typically developed boys of 16 was greater than anticipated and I feared that he would get lost in the system. “We visited Crowdys Hill School to discuss 6th form courses and immediately knew it was the place where Callum would continue

to develop life skills that he wouldn’t get anywhere else.” I admit to feeling choked and having a tear in my eye as my little boy climbed on to the bus to set off on the next stage of his life.” Callum commented “I like Crowdys. It’s a very good place to go for people with disabilities. They have two flats being built and I’m looking forward to staying in one of them. “I love functional skills because we talk about food a lot and we will be learning how to cook tea. I really want to do performing arts and hospitality so I can go to Foxes Academy then I can be a Butlins Redcoat. “ Read Jenny’s advice to parents of children with disabilities to involve them in decisions about their future at: www.bit.ly/callumsdream

A Quality Education for a Lifetime of Opportunities’ We are 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 multi-sensory learning library for parents and carers to access resources for learning at home.

OFSTED February 2012: “A good school where pupils achieve well” ... “promotes pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development outstandingly well” ... “pupils’ behaviour is exemplary” ... “excellent, well-planned support for disabled pupils and those who have special educational needs” ... “examples of outstanding teaching in all classes” ... “outstanding cross curricular provision” Parents say: “amazing grounding, both educationally and emotionally” 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. You are warmly invited to make an appointment to visit our school and we look forward to welcoming you. Please find out more about us from our website. Mrs E Floyd, Headteacher 01793 731262 admin@broadhinton.wilts.sch.uk www.broadhintonschool.org

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Education News

Nationwide volunteers decorate pencil sculpture

The iconic colouring pencils standing at the entrance to Peatmoor Primary School were given a makeover by volunteers from Nationwide at the end of last term. Headteacher Donna Eaton said: “The pencils were starting to look a little tatty but the Nationwide team sanded down and painted them and

they look fabulous again. “They also transformed our environmental area, making it clean, tidy and organised ready for our new academic year. I’d like to thank all the volunteers who put in such a lot of effort, and particularly Rachel Fry from Nationwide, one of our parents, who coordinated the day.”

Building Confidence Realising Potential

“Aspire helped me much more than just getting an A in my GCSE Maths, they helped me get where I am today.” Joshua Snowdon, Law Student at the University of Essex

• English, Maths and Science • Fully Qualified Teachers • Ofsted registered

• 11+ training and preparation • Free assessment and first lesson • Boost your child’s confidence

Tel: 07925 193321 | www.aspireeducationcentres.co.uk

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Family News

preschool gymnastics where an early start makes a world of difference!

Bonkers play area moves to Brunel Bonkers soft play centre, which used to be based at Studley Grange near Junction 16 of the M4, has now relocated to the Brunel Centre in central Swindon. Sandra and Pippa Burchell, who operate Bonkers, gave Swindon Link early access before the grand opening of their new site during September. Pippa said: “This move is all about expansion and growing Bonkers as a business. Without wanting

The new Bonkers site will feature all new play equipment and party rooms

to be negative, we weren’t able to grow as much as we felt we could at Studley Grange, so when this opportunity to move into the Brunel Centre came up we jumped at the chance. “We have been looking at this particular site for about six years, and the management team at the Brunel have been so accomodating and professional to work alongside.” Sandra said: “We have a lot of

daily classes for the under 5’s

01793 822262

www.esprit-gymnastics.co.uk

events that we are getting involved with and hosting, such as a Princess Day, alongside other businesses at the Brunel and our own halloween and Christmas discos. “We are also looking at partnering with a gym that is planned for the unit below us, so that we can offer creche facilities to gym users who don’t have anyone to look after their children. Hopefully this will be in place by Christmas.” www.bonkersplay.co.uk

Please call us at Windmill Hill to arrange a nursery tour just for you and we will look forward to welcoming you to our Outstanding Nursery

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Family News West Swindon playgroup needs children to join in the fun after relocating from Link Centre

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

Tumble Tots now in your area! For information about local centres call

Link and Learn playgroup staff at Toothill Farm, Karen Portsmith, Tina Hendry, Gilly Betts, Annalisa Amoroso, Mandy Morris

Having left Link Centre, Link & Learn Pre-School reopened at Toothill Farm Centre on Bodiam Drive in early September. The problem is, it doesn’t have enough children. The farm was home to a playgroup in the 1980s and 1990s during the West Swindon pre-school population boom years but has been used by youth clubs recently. Playgroup supervisor Gilly Betts said: “We’re glad to continue and have more space compared to Link Centre as well as a large garden. Our team has a lot of experience, most of us have been involved with Link and Learn for over ten years.”

As a demonstration of their commitment, most of the staff spent a lot of their summer holidays washing and painting to bring the rooms back into a condition suitable for a pre-school. To enquire about places, call 07531 133448 or mail: linkandlearnpreschool@yahoo.co.uk Facebook: Link and Learn Preschool Macmillan Cancer Care Big Coffee Morning Friday 7 October, 11am-12.30pm, Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive, SN5 8BE Drop in for coffee and cakes; meet Link and Learn staff

Liz Davies on 0844 800 0219 www.tumbletots.com/swindon

LittLe Foxes ChiLdCare & eduCation

FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356

Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

l

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

£7.55 - £7.65 per hour

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Community News Janet’s Puppy Skool Have fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes

3 Playskool class for puppies 3 Adult beginners/improvers 3 Senior Skool/advanced classes 3 One to one advice & training 3 Fun agility workshops

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk

Are you at work all day? Going away? Or just too busy? The National Pet Care Company Dog holidays with host families, Cat Care, Pet Feeding

Tel: 01793 727158

janet@janetspuppyskool.co.uk

Pet Taxi/Ambulance Tel: 07496 855694

info@swindondistrict.animalsathome.co.uk www.animalsathome.co.uk/swindon-district

Dog lovers wanted: Open your home to a friendly dog for his holiday. While owners are away you will welcome their dogs into your family home and give them the love companionship and exercise they deserve.

For more information please contact:

Hilary Coates Tel: 01793 874 777 / 07436 796 115 Email: sn@waggingtailsuk.co.uk

www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk/sn A franchise owned and operated under licence by Hilary Coates

West Swindon and Lydiard Tregoze Church Partnership Please join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 01793 874221 Email: wspartnershipoffice@gmail.com Website: WSwinlyd.org.uk

Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

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

Re-opening Friday 7th October Open to all, serving tea, coffee, cakes & sandwiches Fridays and Saturdays: 10.30am - 1.30pm

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Making a difference

The Complete Pet Service

APDT Member (01066)

Janet Garrett DipCABT (QCF-Level 4)

29 October, 2pm til late. Sun Inn, Coate Raise money for your charity and also Brighter Futures Register to take part at www.anythingispossible.org.uk

Volunteers provide vital support to organisations in Swindon and the people they are working with. Could you free up some time to help?

regular or occasional basis.

The Open Door Centre has started an activity group for the over 55s on Tuesday afternoons. You will be helping attendees join in activities, chat with members and generally help out.

wanting to gain experience in the field to support adult students in literacy and numeracy classes. This could make a real difference to someone’s life.

Suns Listening Line supports people with mental health issues and is ideally looking for people Marie Curie Cancer Care is looking with experience of these. So if you for volunteers to help run their love chatting on the phone from online store that sells items through home, are non-judgemental and can EBay. If you like social media, keep details of calls, this could be photography or have a special an opportunity for you interest in books, vintage items or Swindon College needs people fashion, this could be a role for you with a background in education or

The Rainbow Children’s Trust needs people to support their work with the families of sick children. It could be offering practical help such as shopping, doing the ironing or supporting siblings of those affected by illness. You can help either on a

To find out more about these and other opportunities, contact Volunteer Centre Swindon on 01793 420557 or info@swindonvolunteers. org.uk Visitors can drop-in at 1 John Street from Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm, to discuss opportunities.

October: Grandparents Information and advice for parents from ePIP ePiP parenting coach Rachel writes: These days, it is not uncommon for families to have three or four generations living together under one roof. Multi-generational living has many benefits and can contribute to the creation of a shared caring environment within which to bring up our children. Whether grandparents live under the same roof or not, the role they play in supporting their children and grandchildren should never be underestimated. Grandparents often have more available time, can listen, observe and attend to the small things as well as pass on cultural and family traditions. Children love to learn from their grandparents. In the UK, up to half of working parents rely on grandparent care for their children. This is not surprising as they offer a trusted, affectionate, flexible, reliable and usually free source of childcare! National Grandparent’s Day was introduced to the UK in 1990 by the

charity Age Concern, and is now widely celebrated across the world. This year Grandparents Day was celebrated on Sunday 11 September. The idea originates from the USA, where it was made an official day of recognition in 1978 to acknowledge the vital contribution the older generation make to their families and wider society. As brilliant as grandparent childcare is, we know it can be a source of tension when they occasionally adopt a different parenting approach to our own and give children a conflicting message to the one from their parents. At ePiP Direct, we help families with inconsistent parenting all the time, which often extends to the wider family and grandparents. Give us a call on 01793 328102 if you want to create a consistent parenting approach across the generations and we would be delighted to help. Call us on 01793 328102 or see more at: www.epipdirect.com

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH with in association

in association with

in association with

A world of theatrical possibilities this Autumn Whether you have a passion for drama or just want to indulge in a good laugh, Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Arts Centre are able to provide during October. The Wyvern is often the epicentre of larger productions in the town and offers the classic theatrical experience, but also a home for nationally touring comedians and internationally renowned companies. Featuring an impressive cast and accompanied by a large live orchestra with over 30 musicians, the Russian State Opera will be coming to the Wyvern on 4 October with the popular opera, Carmen an exciting and colourful story with high passion and tragedy. Popular TV comedian Jason Byrne will be dropping into the Wyvern on 15 October with his latest tour, bringing back his warmth and generous stagecraft with even more props and silly humour. Swindon Arts Centre may be smaller than its sister theatre but is never outdone. Playing host to comedian Jo Caulfield on 9 October and fellow funny woman Kerry Godliman on 22 October are

WIN family passes to new Potter film

in association with

The Russian State Opera will be performing ‘Carmen’ at the Wyvern Theatre on 4 October; one of the many theatre highlights in Swindon this month

just a couple of highlights from a very impressive lineup at the Arts Centre, which also includes The One Show’s food critic Jay Rayner

on 22 October and two events for the Poetry Swindon Festival on 2 and 8 October. For information and tickets:www.swindontheatres.co.uk

Oink Gallery and design shop opens in Old Town A new gallery and design shop has opened in Victoria Road, showcasing fine art and design from across the country. Mark Pepperall, who has run Hot Pepper Design for over 20 years, decided to take on the challenge

of opening Oink Gallery and Design Shop on 16 September as he felt there was nothing in Swindon currently like it. Mark said: “I’ve always loved going to galleries and found that Swindon just doesn’t have

something like this. “We will have everything from designer products and established brands to handcrafted fine art and more.” For more information visit: www.oinkgallery.co.uk

As part of the build up to the latest movie to be set in the Harry Potter wizard-verse, Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them starring Eddie Redmayne, Empire Cinemas are giving away two family guest passes to Link readers for the new spin-off. Empire will be hosting a Potter marathon in the buildup to the new film, which kicked off with showings of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone on Sunday 11 September and will be wrapped up on Sunday 30 October with the last instalment. See empirecinemas.co.uk for details.

Competition

To win one of two family guest passes to Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them at Empire Cinema in Greenbridge, all you have to do is send your name and daytime telephone number to:

competitions@swindonlink.com Make sure you add the word “Sorting Hat” into the subject line of your email. Entries must be submitted by 30 October and are limited to ONE ENTRY PER PERSON. Passes can only be exchanged for tickets on day of booking.

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Swindon Wide

guide to Live Music in Swindon during October Swindon’s live music scene is as diverse and widespread as any in the country. Whether you like chilled out acoustic music, blues, folk, pop, dance, electronica, rock or any other genre you can think of, the scope for musical entertainment is endless. Possibly the biggest show of October comes from another incredible collaboration between music promoters Sheer Music and Songs of Praise, who were both vehemently excited in their announcements on social media in September. The Victoria in Old Town will be receiving rock royalty in the form of ex-Faith No More and Bad Brains frontman Chuck Mosely on 6 October supported by Elea Calvet and Phil Cooper in a night that is certainly not to be missed by any discerning music fan. If you’re looking for something more up to date but equally as impressive, Manchester indierockers Lake Komo will be dropping into Level 3 on Commercial Road on 13 October. The northern four piece are touring in support of their latest album ‘Milwaukee’ which is getting them national recognition

Chuck Mosely will be rocking out The Victoria in Old Town on 6 October supported by Elea Calvet and Phil Cooper

as one of the best up and coming bands in the UK, and their visit to Swindon shows just how important the town is to British music in 2016. Lake Komo will be supported by local stars in the making YVES and Misfires, providing the perfect guard of honour for this show. Back at The Victoria on 21 October is Swindon’s very own Bobby The Persuader, who presents his soulful rock and roll DJ set in the heart of Old Town supported

by The State We’re In. Always a brilliant night of classic tunes for you to dance to, you shouldn’t need much persuading to head down and check out Bobby on the DJ decks. Looking further afield, Marlborough will be hosting two-tone royalty in the shape of The Beat featuring Ranking Roger on 30 September. The group will be releasing their latest album Bounce at an exclusive instore performance at Sound Knowledge

record store, and promises to be an absolutely unmissable evening of cool skanking and righteous fire. Admission is free but it is asked that you pick up a copy of Bounce from Sound Knowledge on the night, with the opportunity to get it signed and meet the band after the performance. Alternatively, there is a chance to catch a darling of BBC Radio 2, Nell Bryden at Swindon Arts Centre on 27 October. Nell has become a listeners’ favourite in recent years for her powerful, soaring vocals and accomplished songwriting. After a career that has seen many ups and downs, she is to many the true definition of musical independence, dedicating herself to touring and creating new material. Definitely not a show to be missed, and a rare opportunity to see Nell perform in an intimate setting. There is a world of music to discover in Swindon besides just these events, so for more information, or more events in Swindon and beyond, visit: www.theocelot.co.uk

Swindon tenants present their own show The Swindon 105.5 column with Shirley Ludford

Council residents don’t just keep up to date with latest information – they’ve become part of the dedicated radio programme that broadcasts to the town. After Swindon Borough Council Housing Department talked with Swindon 105.5 about broadcasting a regular programme updating local residents with help, advice, issues and local initiatives, “Housing Matters”, a fortnightly programme was born. Presented by Donna Liggins, SBC Housing Communications Officer, three local, retired residents are her co-presenters. Donna said: “It’s great! The guys are very actively involved in the making of the show and suggesting content ideas, researching topics and getting interviews lined up. They volunteered to get involved and are always very positive and happy. “I threw them in at the deep end with a live show early on and they were brilliant. They’re now very much a part of the show.” Bill Gulliver, a tenant radio presenter said: “I like to deliver information and help people in the

community and I think it’s great to be involved in something so different, and we’re having a bit of fun at the same time’. Graham said: “I’m not able to get out very much and this is something I really look forward to. It gives me a lot of pleasure, as well as seeing the many young people here developing their skills too” Shirley Ludford Swindon 105.5 manager and broadcaster, said: “The gents have really taken to broadcasting and are now undergoing training with me so they’ll be able to select music and operate the studio desk during live shows, as well as learn to record interviews. It’s never too late to try something new – and you never know where it might lead.” The team plan to be out and about in communities soon. You can hear Housing Matters fortnightly on Wednesdays at 2pm and 6pm, with a weekly podcast also available. swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Motown of the south Swindon Link has been marking Swindon175 by writing about businesses and industries that built Swindon. This month Graham Carter of Swindon Heritage tells how the town has been a driving force in the British motor industry.

Everybody knows Swindon was a railway town, but there are plenty of reasons to re-christen itself ‘Motown,’ 60 years after Pressed Steel’s new plant produced its first body panels on New Year’s Eve, 1955. However, the story really began three years earlier, when Swindon was chosen as an official overspill for Londoners displaced by the Second World War. This paved the way for major new alternative industries to be brought to the town and it took less than ten years for Pressed Steel to overtake the declining railway industry as the area’s leading employer. Research into the era also dispels the myth that the original car plant was mostly staffed by skilled former railwaymen. Although its higher wages did eventually attract lots of workers from British Railways, for the first ten years more than 90 per cent of the workforce were

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London-born. Cars have now reigned supreme in Swindon for more than half a century, with Honda the town’s biggest private employer, second only to Swindon Borough Council, while BMW’s Mini Plant is also a cornerstone of the town’s economy. The Mini bodies produced by BMW link neatly with motoring history, since it is almost certain that the panels for the original Mini, launched in 1959, were pressed in Swindon. But two of Swindon’s other

motoring ‘claims to fame’ link back to the railway. Both Henry Morgan, who founded the Morgan Car Company, and local man Kenneth Howse, designer of the classic Sunbeam Alpine sports car in the 1960s, were trained by the Great Western Railway in Swindon. After buying his first car in Swindon, Morgan was bitten by the motoring bug, and returned home to Worcester to found his iconic car company, despite being offered a permanent job with the GWR in Swindon.

The first ever Mini, built in 1959. Although there are no records to prove it, the body parts for this pioneering car were probably made in Swindon. (Courtesy of the British Motor Museum)

Read the full story

The Autumn 2016 edition of Swindon Heritage includes an interview with former STEAM  museum curator Tim Bryan who switched from railway to cars in 2004, when he became a senior manager and archivist at the British Motor Museum. The new edition is packed with insights into the town’s history, intriguing stories and interviews and insightful images. Find out how to subscribe to Swindon Heritage or buy individual copies at: www.swindonheritage.com

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Gooch to be honoured with a place of his own The forecourt to Swindon railway station will be named Sir Daniel Gooch Place on Thursday 20 October, 11am, by a yet-to-be

identified VIP who will also unveil a traditional locomotive brass nameplate dedicated to the great engineer.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson unveiling the bust of Gooch created by New College student Fatima Alves with Sir Arthur Gooch (no relation) at Arkells on 24 August

Whilst IK Brunel has received all the plaudits for overseeing the building of the Great Western Railway in the 1840s, it was Gooch who wrote the letter to the Great Western Railway Company 175 years ago recommending Swindon be the site for a locomotive maintenance works. A bust of Daniel Gooch, based on a photograph at Steam Museum, was unveiled at Arkells Brewery on 28 August. It was made out of 113 laser cut slices of marine plywood by New College student A’ level graphic design and illustration student Fatima Alves. Arkells have also brewed Golden Gooch to savour his memory.

Recording changes through the ages

Founded in 1972, the Swindon Society is dedicated to exploring the town’s history through images going back to the invention of photography. The group meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Goddard Park School, Welcombe Avenue, SN3 2QN. The next gathering takes place on 12 October when Andy Binks will talk on ‘Thirty Five Shillings’ his pay when he started work in the town’s railway works in 1970. See more at Facebook: theswindonsociety

Swindon snaps on tour Twelve images of Swindon by students from local schools and colleges in the town will be exhibited during the Autumn at venues around the town, as well as on the backs of 12 Thamesdown Transport buses. On 12 September, South Swindon MP Robert Buckand met the entrants to the competition sponsored by the Brunel Centre and presented prizes donated by Great

Western Cameras to the top three photographers. The pictures will be on display at at Steam Museum, Great Western Hospital and North and West Swindon libraries.

Orchestrating Swindon

Swindon Symphony Orchestra will be celebrating Swindon175 with a programme of classics at Steam Museum on 19 November. Details will be published next month.

Robert Buckland MP with the winners of the Snapshot Swindon competition and Brunel Centre general manager Kevin Gwilliam

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Swindon Wide MUSIC Wednesday 5th, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital: Lorna Osbon violin and Paul Turner piano. £7; accompanied children aged 14 and under, free. Wyvern Thursday 6th, 7.30pm The Magic of Motown. Dazzling dance moves and superb musicianship. £27.50. Wyvern Thursday 6th.730pm The Little Bit The Boys Admire: The Marie Lloyd Story. Music Hall entertainment. £14. Arts Centre Friday 7th, 7.30pm A Vision of Elvis. All the music of Elvis Presley. £24.50. Wyvern Saturday 8th, 7.30pm Frankly Sinatra. Featuring the swing, the swagger and the velvet vocals of Sinatra in concert with Stephen Triffitt. £26.50. Wyvern Sunday 9th, 7.30pm The Rubettes. The original Rubettes Alan Williams, John Richardson and Mick Clarke with Steve Innes Etherington. £22.50. Wyvern Saturday 15th, 7.30pm Kentwood Kids: The World Goes Round. The youth section of The Kentwood Show Choir accompanied by a full band. £13. Arts Centre

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WHAT’S ON SWINDON DANCE Tuesday 11th, 7.30pm Leviathan. An epic re-imagining of Herman Melville’s seminal novel, Moby Dick, featuring a cast of seven world-class dancers. £15.50. Wyvern Tues 25th & Wed 26th, 7.30pm The Russian State Ballet brings the tales of Swan Lake (Tues) and Sleeping Beauty (Wed) magically to life. £32.00 - £35.50. Wyvern Friday 28th, 7.30pm BalletBoyz. A brand new show from the all-male company of ten amazing dancers. £21.50. Wyvern

EXHIBITION Until 31 March 2017 Swindon: Then and Now. Local photographs chart the changes in the town’s urban landscape. Standard admission charge. STEAM Until April 2017, Wed to Sat, 11am to 4pm Lydiard at War. The story of the impact of the First World War on the St John family and the wider estate. Admission charges. Lydiard House

FILM

Wednesday 5th, 7.45pm Mustang (12). Set in a remote Friday 21st, 7.30pm Turkish village, free-spirited teenage Joe Stilgoe: Songs On Film. Joe sisters cause consternation to their adds original and stylish orchestraparents. When the older two are tions to memorable moments in married off, the younger ones bond cinematic history. £22.50. Arts Centre together, to avoid the same fate. Monday 24th, 7.30pm SFS. Arts Centre The Power of Love. A re-creation of Wednesday 19th, 7.45pm the superb songbook of Celine Dion. The Way He Looks (12). Life is £23.50. Wyvern disrupted for blind adolescent LeThursday 27th, 7.30pm onardo, and his best friend Giovanni Nell Bryden. when a new boy arrives at school. Radio 2 favSwindon Film Society. Arts Centre ourite, Nell, is Wednesday 26th, 7.45pm known for her Theeb (15). In 1916 Arabia a young powerful, soarBedouin’s life is transformed when ing vocals and he joins his brother guiding a British accomplished Officer across the desert. Gloriously songwriting. £20. Arts Centre superb cinematography. Swindon Thursday 27th, 7.30pm Film Society. Arts Centre Let’s Hang On. A celebration of the Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are legendary Frankie Valli & The Four for members only. It is possible to Seasons. £23.50. Wyvern join at any film screening Saturday 29th, 7.30pm Heart & Music: A Reason To Sing. A fundraiser for The Grand Appeal and Brighter Futures showcasing local vocal ensembles The Noteables and The Songbirds, as well as performers from Tanwood School for Performing Arts. £12.50. Arts Centre Sunday 30th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series. Sarah Markham saxophone and Paul Turner piano with Kenneth Wilkinson saxophone. £16; students £3.50; accompanied children 14 and under free. Arts Centre

VENUES Arts Centre Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 Lydiard House Lydiard Park SN5 3PA. Tel: 01793 466664 Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG STEAM Fire Fly Avenue SN2 2EY. Tel: 01793 466646 Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue Booking fees may apply

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SWINDON COMEDY Friday 7th, 8pm Zoe Lyons Little Misfit. A new show from Zoe. £16.75. Arts Centre Sunday 9th, 8pm Jo Caulfield: The Customer Is Always Wrong. From dating, relationships and divorce, to booking a holiday or joining a pub-quiz team – nothing is as simple as it should be. Age 16+. £16.50. Arts Centre Tuesday 11th, 8pm Beth Vyse: As Funny As Cancer. Beth takes a bodacious and ballsy look at her battle with breast cancer. Age: 14+. £12.50. Arts Centre Thursday 13th, 7.30pm Graeme Swann’s Great British Spin Off. England’s greatest ever spin bowler on tour with cricket’s best loved commentator, Henry Blofeld. £28.50. Wyvern Thursday 13th, 8pm Shunted Again: Steve Gribbin’s Real Story of the Railways, from Beeching to Brunel, from steam (H2O) to HS2. £12.50. Arts Centre Friday 14th, 7.30pm Mum’s The Word 2 tackles the parenting nightmare of teenagers. £26.50. Wyvern Friday 14th, 8pm Carl Hutchinson: The Fixer. Carl tackles the little everyday issues. £12. Arts Centre Saturday 15th, 8pm Jason Byrne, with even more props and silly humour. £20.25. Wyvern Sunday 16th, 8pm Ahir Shah: Machines. Ahir has concerns about the uses and dangers of utopianism in a complex, fractured world; fortunately they’re funny. £13.50. Arts Centre Thursday 20th, 7.30pm Jay Rayner: The 10 Food Commandments. The Masterchef judge has decided it’s time to act on the complex business of how and what we eat. £20.50. Arts Centre Saturday 22nd. 8pm Kerry Godliman: Stick or Twist. Kerry’s straight talking brand of quick wit and bewilderment covers more of life’s anomalies. £15. Arts Centre Friday 28th, 8pm Jongleurs: Comedy On The Road with Angela Barnes, Ben Norris, Trevor Crook, and Mike Gunn. £13.50. Arts Centre Monday 31 October, & Tuesday 1 November, 7.30pm; Tuesday 1 November, 2.30pm Round The Horne: The 50th Anniversary Tour. Radio comedy classic live with original scripts by Barry Took and Marty Feldman. £21. Wvyern

CHILDREN & FAMILY Tuesday 27 September to Saturday 1 Oct, 7pm; also Wed 10.30am, Thurs 1pm & Fri 10.30am Gangsta Granny by David Walliams. Ben embarks on the adventure of a lifetime with his very own Gangsta Granny. £16 - £20; family £64. Wyvern Sunday 2nd, 1.30pm & 3.30pm Stick Man Puppets, songs, music and funky moves. Suit 3 years and older. £15.50; family £58. Wyvern Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd. Wed & Fri 7.30pm; Thurs 4.15pm & 7.45pm; Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm The Wizard of Oz presented by SALOS. Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination. £16 to £23. Wyvern Saturday 22nd, 11.30am Family Fairy Tales. Half term story time featuring favourite story characters. £5. Arts Centre Saturday 22nd Fireworks for young children. No big bangs, lots of sparkle, kids disco. Buy tickets online. See the advert on page 26. Roves Farm Saturday 22nd to Sunday 30th Pumpkins. Design and carve a pumpkin. Also halloween activities. See the advert on p 26. Roves Farm Thursday 27th, 11am The Great Jaydini Magic blended with comedy for 4 year olds and over. £10, incl squash and ice cream; adults free. The Place, Wyvern Saturday 29th, 10am to 1pm Family Fun Day. Character appearances and free events. Wyvern

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DRAMA Wednesday 28 September to Saturday 1 October, 7.30pm The Reunion presented by The Phoenix Players. Comedy and confusion combine in this hilarious but poignant story of small people in a big world. £11. Arts Centre Wednesday 12th, 7.30pm Romeo & Juliet. Traffic Of The Stage’s period production shows the colour and vitality of youth with its joyous intensity and passionate impulses. £14.25, Arts Centre Sunday 23rd, 7.30pm Dracula. A tale of love, blood and gore you can really get your teeth into. Age 12+. £12. Arts Centre

OPERA Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm Carmen. The Russian State Opera presents Bizet’s exciting and colourful story of high passion and tragedy. £31.50 to £37.50. Wyvern swindonlink.com n October 2016

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Lamb tagine: a taste of Morocco in your kitchen In the second of a new series of recipes designed to be easy to cook but tasty and convenient the Link Magazine’s new cookery consultant Angela Barlow shows how to make a delicious dish for this time of year.

Now we are firmly starting to feel the chills of autumn and beginning to think about winter we all want something that has a little more kick and is suitably flavoursome to keep the family warm. This lamb tagine dish does just the job, mixing the spices with the delicate sweetness of fruit like apricots, dates and sultanas, to offer a tasty alternative to the usual casseroles or stew that are a staple. It’s not so hot that you need asbestos-lined taste buds but it is just warming enough so you know you are tasting something special. Usually I serve this interesting lamb dish with couscous but you could use rice just as well. l Preheat the oven to 150degrees C/fan, 130degrees C. l Put the lamb into a bowl, add the dry spices and mix well together. Cover and leave to stand for at least three hours. l Heat a large casserole dish and add one tbsp. of olive oil. Add a

small handful of lamb and cook until evenly browned. Tip onto a plate and repeat until all the lamb is cooked. l Add the remaining oil and cook the onions over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes until soft then add the garlic and cook for a further couple of minutes. l Return the browned meat to the dish together with the dates, apricots, almonds, sultanas, saffron mixture, lemon zest, honey, passata and chicken stock. l Bring to a simmer and cook in the oven for one hour with the lid partially on. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another hour without the lid until the meat is tender. Stir in the chopped coriander and mint. l Serve garnished with the coriander sprigs and lemon wedges. A little dollop of fromage frais or soured cream on each portion is an option and can help contrast the spices.

Ingredients for Lamb tagine to serve four to six people: 1kg diced lamb - 1½ tbsp. ground ginger - 1 ½ tsp ground black pepper - 2 tsp ground cumin - 1 tbsp ground turmeric - 1 tbsp paprika - 1 tsp cayenne pepper - 1 tsp ground coriander - 2 tbsp olive oil - 3 onions finely sliced - chicken stock - 2 garlic cloves peeled and finely chopped - 75g dates cut in half - 100g dried apricots - 75g flaked almonds - 50g sultanas - 1 tsp saffron strands (pre soaked) - zest of one lemon - 1-2 tbsp clear honey - 500ml passata - 500ml chicken stock - 400g can of chopped tomatoes - A handful of coriander and mint leaves finely chopped - lemon wedges and a few sprigs of coriander to garnish

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Family centre mascot attracts funds

The Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel Staff, kids and parents ready to send Westie on another fundraising escapade

West Swindon Family Centre’s mascot, Westie, has raised the charity more than £1,000 in donations on his travels to local businesses since a new fundraising campaign was launched in April. The income will be used to support vulnerable children living in Swindon. He’s been to Wessex Fire and Rescue, Recycling Technologies, Whitmarsh Lockhart, CMS Supatrak and the National Self Build and Renovation Centre. He’s even been to Paris and the Bristol Balloon Fiesta, thanks to staff at Excalibur Communications. “I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the local companies who have

hosted Westie and helped towards reaching this amazing milestone” said Mike Smith, the family centre’s business development coordinator. “They really embraced the concept and raised significant funds towards our grand total.” West Swindon Family Centre provides support to disadvantaged children growing up in emotional and financial poverty, including specific services for at-risk children, victims of domestic abuse, autistic children and their families as well as young mothers and lone parents. If your business would like to ‘Request Westie, contact Mike. Smith@westswindoncc.org www.westswindonfamilycentre.com

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Talks at Swindon Central Library

Museum & Art Gallery could incorporate famous stones The dream of reusing the columns and pediment from the long since vanished Baptist Tabernacle that stood in Regent Street for almost 90 years could become a reality if the proposed museum and art gallery for the town centre is built opposite the Wyvern Theatre. Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker, the director of Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Trust, revealed that a home of the stones could be found in the design of the new building. Speaking about the project at a meeting of the Friends of Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, he said: “It would provide a point of continuity to the past in the new museum.” Beyond that, few other details are available, other than his task is to prepare a compelling bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a £12 million grant. The tabernacle opened in 1886 and was demolished in 1978. The dressed stone portico was sold to a property developer but were bought by Swindon Council in 2007 to be used as the entrance to the art gallery and museum proposed for the Villett Street redevelopment. However the world recession in 2009 killed that plan and the stones have been in store ever since.

Thursday 6 October, 7.15pm Birds: Myth, Lore & Legend By re-telling the many legends, beliefs, proverbs and predictions associated with birds from many nations, authors Rachel Warren Chadd and Marianne Taylor bring into focus the close, and often ancient, links between humans and these remarkable feathered descendants of dinosaurs. Thursday 13 October, 7.15pm Jane Eyre: The Path of the Poor Orphan Child Dr Keith Hooper gives an illustrated lecture that explores this highly controversial, for its time, yet wonderful Charlotte Bronte novel. Beginning with an overview of the author’s life and work, the lecture will explore the themes and social context of this revolutionary story of an orphan girl who dared to determine her own destiny. Dr Hooper will publish a commissioned biography of Charles Dickens in 2017.

Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker, with Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Trust trustees, chairman Robert Cox, left, and Lord Joel Joffe. Below, the tabernacle stones ready for reuse at Wroughton airfield

Tickets at £2.50 (£1.50 library members) are available from the Help Desk on the ground floor at the library, or on the door if space is still available.

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Swindon Wide Swindon will resound with poetry this month Poetry column by Poetry Swindon’s Maurice Spillane

Come along to one of the biggest poetry festivals in the UK right here in Swindon this month. Swindon Poetry Festival is a fantastic 10-day programme with poets coming from all over the UK. It takes place from 29 September to 5 October and is followed by the Big Poetry Weekend from 6 October to 9 October. The first few days focus on Poetry

in the Community. I know poetry isn’t for everyone but I bet you have some gems yourself from your school days. Come along and read one of them at Poems Aloud at 10am in Swindon Library on Thursday 29 September. We will have Poetry and Music as well and beer and wine at Savernake Street Social Club on Friday 30 September, 7pm. I will be reading along with several others. We did this last year and it was a hoot. Children’s Day is at Richard Jefferies Museum on Sunday 2

October, 11am until 4pm. Also at Jefferies on Friday 7 October there’s the Quiet Compere which should be a great performance and I recommend it as a way into poetry. There will be an open bar and bookshop. If you have young adults studying A’ Levels they should come along to hear Daljit Nagra on Saturday 8 October at 8pm in Swindon Arts Centre. He is on the A’ level curriculum. Daljit won the Forward Prize so we are delighted to have him along. He is a lovely person and will be happy to chat. Here is an extract from one of his poems.

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Sport and Leisure Signings look for success at Swindon Wildcats

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The Wildcats column with Mike Wray

New prospects Oliver Stone, Ben Nethersell, Adam Finlinson and Kyle Smith have the drive and hunger to be a success at Swindon Wildcats, says player-coach Aaron Nell. The quartet arrived for their break-through season having graduated this summer from the Link Centre based Okanagan Hockey Academy and all have been rewarded for their efforts with deals in the club’s English Premier Ice Hockey League roster. Having already guest featured for the club, the youngsters have proved they are ready for the step up and are relishing a full crack at the 2016-17 campaign after admitting they’ve settled in to the rigours of the league during their

initial ice-time in recent seasons. All four players helped their OHA sides to success but will view the move as a fresh start as they enter the senior game for the first time and Nell believes the desire they have shown pre-season is important in showing what they can do. Nell said: “They have a drive to be successful and a hunger to really be a success with us. “When you add into that where the individual wants to go in their career, and what they want to achieve, then all those things will benefit the club. “What is also important is to get players who want a fresh start so they bring more positive aspects into a dressing room which has lots of qualities already.” www.swindonwildcats.com

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16/09/2016 14:48

Sport and Leisure

Going forward with Trust STFC

After being given the all-clear after treatment for testicular cancer, James Baker, 27, from Westlea, was found to have it in his brain, causing seizures, cardiac arrest and temporary loss of eyesight and the ability to walk. James was recently told his condition is terminal but family and friends are working to raise £30,000 for life prolonging treatment in Germany.

Pro Red Team of the Month - Purton FC Under 7’s, managed by Tajinder Samra The Trust STFC column with chairman Steve Mytton

September started badly with the loss to Oxford United, which was a huge disappointment for all Town fans. This was swiftly followed by the bad news that young striker Jordan Stewart has suffered knee ligament damage and faces an extended period on the sidelines. Jordan had made a promising start to the season after a difficult first year in Wiltshire, scoring a memorable goal at QPR and doing plenty to suggest he could cause League One defences a lot of trouble this term. Furthermore, as the Trust’s sponsored player for 2016-17,

Be a superhero runner and/or take part in a fun day on 1 & 2 October

he has already shown a desire to support our work and help promote the club to the wider community of Swindon - a key part of what we are trying to achieve. Rest up for now Jordan, and good luck with your rehab. Onto more positive things, and many people still haven’t caught on to the fact that individual adult tickets for any Swindon Town home match are available for just £15 through the ‘Pro Red’ scheme, a saving of £10 on normal prices. If you have a young family member in your household, please visit www.pro-red.co.uk and sign up to this fantastic scheme that encourages a larger fanbase for our future. www.truststfc.com

Two events will take place on: 1 October: Participants in the weekly 5k Swindon parkrun around Lydiard Park are being asked to become sponsored superheroes. Registration takes place from 8.30am before the start at 9am. New runners have to register in advance to take part at www.parkrun.org.uk/swindon

James fighting fit, before the cancer returned

the news of his illness makes that much harder to deal with. If this were the other way round, he would be the first in line to donate to you. “So we’re asking readers to come along to take part in parkrun and, or, come along to the fun day at Lydiard Park Academy where there will be lots going on and some great raffle prizes on offer from lots of supporters. “If you’re unable to take part in either, please share this appeal as far and wide as possible.” Donate to the James Baker appeal at: www.gofundme.com/ bakemanalternative See updates on Facebook: A James Baker Fundraiser

2 October, 12noon to 3pm. Family Fun Day at Lydiard Park Academy, Grange Park, SN5 6HN. Friend and fun day organiser Luke Watkins: “James is loved by everyone. If you’ve been lucky enough to meet him you’ll know he is the nicest, friendliest and most positive person you could ever meet. Sadly

An Olympic legacy to be proud of? On Two Wheels by Rob Derry of Swindon Bicycle Users Group (BUG)

We talked about the legacy of London 2012 and it was a big theme in the bid to win the right to host the games. Clearly, the legacy is there as GB became the first host nation to increase its medal count in the following games. In the cycling, every member of the track team came home with at least one medal – that’s an incredible achievement. After the 2012 games, honours were handed out to many sportsmen and women including Knighthoods, MBEs and OBEs. I think we can expect a whole host of honours for Britain’s medallists in the New Years list but there has been a call from the members of the British Cycling team that was so successful for the third Olympics on the trot. They all signed a letter to the Prime Minister saying that the best way to honour the cyclists would be to provide a lasting legacy for everyday cycling in the UK. They have asked for the Government to spend just 5% of the transport budget on making cycling safer and easier through

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infrastructure provision and improvement. Now, if that can happen what a legacy that would be. With all of the velodromes, coaches and sport cycling schemes around the country, I would like to think that the sporting legacy is secure but the real benefit could be a hundred times greater for everyone if the Government could deliver on this request from Britain’s top cyclists. More people cycling is better for public health, the environment and the state of our roads. Chris Boardman is already a huge supporter of making cycling an everyday activity that normal people can do in normal clothes. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if instead of seeing Sir Jason Kenny, we all could benefit from the true legacy of having the best national sports cycling programme in the world?

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Sport and Leisure

Jazz comes home to Tigersharks’ joy

Silver medallist Jazz Carlin sits with the Tigersharks

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Rio Olympic’s double medallist Jazz Carlin was given an ecstatic welcome home from 60 members of her former swimming club Swindon Tigersharks at Link Centre on 12 September. Wearing her silver medals won in the 400 and 800 freestyle, the guard of honour formed by the youngsters aged 8 to 17 briefly reduced her to tears before composing herself to pass out the medals, chat to club members and pose for snaps. The homecoming complemented the club send-off for Jazz in July before she set off for Brazil with the other Team GB swimmers. Tigersharks head coach for the last

12 years, Lesley Jeffers, said: “It’s such a joy for Jazz to win medals at the world’s biggest event. She started with us in the learn to swim programme at the age of 5 and progressed from there. “And although Jazz is now based with the elite GB squad at Bath University, she comes back to see us as often as her commitments allow. It’s great that she sometimes trains with our swimmers to demonstrate how hard she works to achieve her success. What’s nice is that Jazz remains such a level headed nice person, an inspiration to all of us, in the pool and outside. Parents Mary and Roger Carlin, from Grange Park, said they were still trying to come to terms with Jazz’s success a month after the competition. “We went to Rio to cheer the team and urge Jazz on to do her best in the heats and finals,” said Mary. “It was an incredible atmosphere, totally euphoric as the team won medals and Jazz improved her personal best times and came through in her events, so brilliant.” Roger commented: “After the 400 metres Jazz was saying she felt under the weather during the heats of the 800 metres, but we knew she would be doing her best. In our eyes getting to the Olympics was a dream after her hopes were dashed

before the London Olympics when she was diagnosed with glandular fever which had completely disrupted her training.” Mary said Jazz had her tonsils removed in late 2012 and once she returned to training her talent emerged even more strongly with British records being broken, personal times improved, gold and silver medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the European Championships, and a bronze at the 2015 World Championships in Russia. “It was a huge knock not to be able to be part of the London Olympics, but Jazz showed great character and determination to put that behind her, to show what she was capable of,” said Mary. Jazz said: “I enjoy returning to my home town where I learnt to swim and my career began. I have so many people to be thankful for, my parents who have helped me in every way possible, the coaches in the club who have pushed me and all the volunteers who keep Tigersharks going as a club. I really could not have achieved what I have without them.” Jazz, who celebrated her twentysixth birthday on 17 September, begins preparations for the 2017 World Championships at the end of September.

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16/09/2016 15:00

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Sport and Leisure

Modern Guides, making a real difference to girls’ lives Jo Sully, the joint County Commissioner for Girlguides Wiltshire North, writes that people still have the idea that the movement is all about knitting and knotting. But that’s not the case. Guides have changed with the times in ways people don’t realise, but we still rely on volunteers to become inspiring role models for our young members. Recently Guide units in the Swindon area have been involved in many exciting and varied activities such as: • exploring STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities at the Royal

International Air Tattoo, Fairford; • attending Big Gig, a Guides only concert at Wembley featuring Jess Glynne, Matt DeFreitas and Fleur East amongst others; • outdoor activities - zorbing and

slacklining; • practical skills - learning how to change tyres or build flat-pack furniture; • adventure events and camps of all shapes and sizes, from a local unit-based camp at Cotswold Water Parks, to participation in an international camp attended by 1,500 from all over the globe; • participation in ‘Strategy,’ a camp/activity hike which challenges 10 to 14 year old Scouts and Guides to work together, navigating a route to complete activities and scoring points as they go. Peatmoor Guides came ninth out of 235 teams and are still grinning from ear to ear about their achievement.

Whilst we’re very good at providing great new opportunities and experiences for our young members, we’re not so good at shouting out about it. Guide units across Swindon are both bursting with enthusiasm and also with members. We’re desperate not to disappoint all the girls who want to join which means we need more volunteers to come forward and be part of the fun. So many adults who join in say they get just as much out of guiding as the girls. No matter how much time you have to give, there’s an opportunity for you. See more information about guiding in Swindon at: www. girlguidingwiltshirenorth.org.uk where there are links to the Facebook page and blog.

Helmet saves the life of West Swindon cyclist Clive Heard from Common Platt was innocently riding to work on a cycle path next to Covingham Place roundabout early on 4 July when a fast moving car made a 90 degree turn on the adjacent road, mounted the curb and hit Clive whilst driving over his bike. He was carried on the bonnet for 20 metres as the car went through a low wall, hitting a tree and

Clive with his wrecked helment

36

catapulting Clive across a garden, leaving him with multiple fractures of his collar bone, cracked ribs and lots of bruising. The car windscreen was smashed by the impact of the helmet protecting Clive’s head, although the spectacles he was wearing were pushed into his face cutting his eye. Clive, still hampered by the damaged collar bone, said: “There’s no question that if I wasn’t wearing the helmet, I would have sustained serious head injuries, perhaps worse. “Luckily I was just about conscious enough to ask somebody who came to my rescue to call Amanda, my wife, to tell her what had happened. The paramedics turned up to stabilise me before taking me and Amanda to Great Western Hospital where I had a CAT scan and an X ray. Amazingly, after patching me up they sent me home as the hospital was ram-packed.” Amanda said she and Clive had to take a taxi back to Covingham

to pick up her car and to try and understand what had happened a few hours earlier. “As a keen cyclist myself, I cannot understate the need to wear a helmet to protect yourself. It might be inconvenient to put on,

but you just don’t know what might happen. It’s incredible that the driver was able to turn right angles on the roundabout and hit Clive so hard.” Police investigations continue.

Climbers ready for Kilimanjaro in aid of genetic eye disease

Ian Lawrence, Dan Hopkins and Becky Prince

Three intrepid treckers set off for Tanzania in mid-October to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money and awareness of the genetically inherited disease Retinitis Pigmentosa, for which is there is no cure or treatment. Ian Lawrence, Becky Prince and their friend Daniel Hopkins who has RP have been training hard over the last year as well as raising money to take part in the expedition. Ian said: “We’re all generally fit, Becky is a tennis coach, I run, and Dan has been climbing the stairs of his house as well hiking up hills around Wanborough where we live. “We’ve also been doing specific exercises, though you never know

how the altitude will affect us.” Dan has quite limited peripheral vision and is registered as SSI (severely sight impaired), struggles in crowded environments and is virtually blind in the dark. Ian said: “We went to Ben Nevis which was incredible preparation for both of us. Because of RP, Dan found the terrain really difficult and I found it took a lot of concentration communicating with him to ‘watch that boulder’ or ‘take the path on the right’ for over nine hours.’” The team have reached their fundraising targets but to boost the charity RP Fighting Blindness, go to www.justgiving.com/IRLawrence

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16/09/2016 15:01

Motoring

Peugeot 2008 – Tailored for families

Geoff Maxted of Drivewrite.co.uk takes the Peugeot 2008 for a drive

Looking at the reviews for the improved 2016 Peugeot 2008 you would be forgiven for thinking that nobody can make up their minds. But taken as a whole the Peugeot 2008 – here featured in Allure trim with a BlueHDi 118bhp diesel engine – is, as Frank Carson is wont to say, a cracker. The Peugeot 2008 has been revamped for this year. It’s mostly cosmetic with a new frontal appearance with latest in-house design codes and new grille treatment. This model gets wheel arch extensions and scuff plates. A special word for the terrific paint, a new ‘Ultimate Red’ that has a multi-layered varnish treatment. Other hues are available.

The tested motor is, as mentioned, in the penultimate trim level but you can cough up a bit more for the new ‘GT Line’ model, for a more sporty aspect. Allure gets you part-leather seats that have adequate manual adjustment with sufficient reach and rake on the small but perfectly formed steering wheel. Most drivers will fit, although space behind a tall pilot is a tad restricted. The test car costs just shy of £20k so the French company have done well to present such a neat and attractive interior. Back seat customers are well catered for with comfort but your lanky fellows will find it tight. Good for children though and this car is crying out to be on the short list

for a 2+2 family unit. The boot is sufficient at 410L with the fold-flat, split-folding seats up. The i-Cockpit is unique to the brand and is something of a highlight. The compact sports wheel offers precise steering and improved manoeuvrability while the easy-touse 7” multifunction colour touch screen puts all the functionality at your fingertips. Features include the now expected toys and Peugeot’s Connect SOS & Assistance feature. In addition, the head-up cowled instrument panel allows driver information to be accessed without taking the eyes off the road. It would not be unfair to say that this is one of the best looking dashboards in this extremely competitive small Crossover/SUV sector. It is mercifully low on button count and, for example, climate can be controlled by a quick flick of a switch. The ‘carbon-fibre’ effect plastic fascia is soft and, sure, there’s some budget plastic around but it is not obvious or cheaplooking so the overall ambience inside is one of high quality. First up then is ‘Grip Control’ - an adapted selectable traction system controlling the front wheels only

– which gives the Peugeot 2008 versatility on trickier terrain. 4WD it is not but on a track or slippery grass it works well. The Euro6 engines (the diesels are 1.6L BlueHDi and the petrols 1.2L PureTech, both with various power outputs) ensure a fuel efficient yet enjoyable drive through the six-speed manual ‘box. The 118bhp diesel as tested chases to 62mph in under ten and is lively and responsive if a bit noisy. This is especially good because at 98g/km it’s a road tax-free drive too. The Peugeot 2008 offers car-like handling. Despite the higher ride height the small SUV acquits itself well on the road. Ride quality is up there with the best-in-class, and unlike some doesn’t roll hugely when cornering quickly. This car doesn’t cost much more than the hatchback 208 and, as suggested, is a bit of a steal. Certainly the 2008 has more to offer than its smaller brother. With Grip Control for extra on-road winter security the bigger car is more versatile. With easily 50mpg (with Stop/Start) on the cards this upgraded version will satisfy most mainstream buyers.

Autumnal fun for everyone at Studley Grange Studley Grange Garden and Leisure Park, near Swindon, is the perfect destination at half term. Home to 30 species of butterflies in the specifically designed hot house and a menagerie of animals in the Farm Park, as well as the Craft Village and Softplay there is plenty of fun for visitors of all ages. Farm Park at Studley Grange is hoping to welcome their own lambs and piglets this autumn. The flock of Dorset sheep are confirmed in lamb and Roger the British Saddleback boar has been busy as well, with his sows looking like they could also be expecting piglets. The popular Soft Play at Studley Grange features a newly refitted fun-packed indoor adventure play area. An exciting range of animal themed, safe soft climbing frames, slides and dens keep children occupied with plenty of entertainment. Chocolate Comforts, Cake Creations is a charming boutique filled with chocolates and cakes and Sparkle Dreams is a den of paper crafts. Both shops run regular workshops including chocolate and cup cake decorating as well as October crafting sessions for children.

A variety of cuddly critters are at Studley Grange this autumn

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16/09/2016 15:02

Sport and Leisure

Toothill street party to reveal all on TV

Jacky Parry, centre, and Toothill residents welcoming a new community notice board donated to the area by the BBC Street Auction team

Street Auction, a new daytime afternoon is donated to a deserving BBC 1 series which aims to bring person from the community, who neighbours in different areas of course, doesn’t know about it of Britain together launches in until the camera zooms in on them October. to capture the look of shock, the One of the shows was filmed in realisation and the tears. Toothill with presenter Paul Martin, Jacky Parry, founder coordinator of well known for Swindon Survivors his programme of Bereavement Flog It, and Danny by Suicide (SOBS), Sebastian, dashing is the amazed about the area resident to be collecting items featured in the big to auction, and reveal at 11am on presenting a pop11 October. up auction. Another street The unique auction took place element of the in Liden which will programme is that Paul Martin comforting a stunned be featured on the proceeds of the Jacky Parry at the auction in July Thursday 6 October.

Afghan veteran seeks support to become winter sports champion A former soldier who suffered multiple-injuries from being blown up in Afghanistan in 2010 is appealing for help to sustain his winter sports training. Corie Mapp, who was featured in the June Link after competing in the Invictus Games for injured military personal, travelled to Canada in mid-September for intensive training in advance of the parabobsleigh season of races in North America and Europe. Corie joined the Household Cavalry in 2005 and took part in the Trooping of the Colour. But his military career ended when the light reconnaissance vehicle he was in was hit by an IED. He took the full blast and lost both legs below the knee. After a long period of recovery, the 37 year old from Redhouse, vigorously pursued a range of sports, and has been second in the world para-bobsleigh ranking over the last two seasons. His aim is to secure top spot but the cost of achieving that goal depends on being able to raise more than £7,000 to cover travel, training, accommodation and living expenses.

“I’m so grateful to those who saved my life and help me recover, all well as support organisations like Help for Heroes, the British Legion and BLESMA” said Corie. “Sport has been my outlet in the new reality I live in and I’m always thankful for the support and encouragement I receive.” Staff at Lloyds Bank have started a fund to assist Corie and are calling for others to help him become world number one. If you can help, visit the Brunel Centre branch and ask to speak to manager Ben Jones. Read Corie’s story with more pictures at swindonlink.com: www.bit.ly/corriemapp

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16/09/2016 15:03

Gardening

Autumn celebration of nature The Secret Garden in Queen’s Park and SCAN (Swindon Climate Action Network) are holding their fourth Apple Day on Saturday 1 October 10am to 2pm. The traditional celebration of nature’s bounty will include cutting, scratting and pressing of apples and pears. Take fruit along to use the equipment provided and share

Discover a magnificent meadow Meadows are wonderful places and key to nation’s environmental health. In spring and summer the sound, smell and colour of these precious patches of countryside are filled with boundless life. But the UK’s wildflower meadows are disappearing - only 3 per cent of those that existed in the 1930’s now remain. Some small jewel like fragments still exist in North Wiltshire and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is working hard to preserve and increase their biodiversity. At Lower Moor Farm near Cotswold Water Parks, weekly microscope evenings are held with experts to help people learn more. To book a place, mail: MagnificentMeadows@ wiltshirewildlife.org

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the resulting output. If you want to enjoy the fresh produce take a small container, such as a clean plastic milk carton. Cider will also be available to buy from a very local supplier. The day will feature entertainment involving a number of community organisations such as the Eastcott Community Organisation, the Harbour Project, the Mechanics Institution Trust, the Repair Café and Incredible Edible Swindon. Find out more on Facebook: Secret Garden Swindon or Swindon Climate

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Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

MILESTONE Building Services

Complete Property Renovations & Alterations Kitchens / Bathroom Tiling / Flooring Brickwork / Blockwork Paving / Patios Fencing / Decking & Ground Works Carpentry / Plumbing All Building Works Undertaken No job too small • Free estimates Contact: Dean Scanlon Telephone: 01793 422032 Mobile: 077 8968 1536

J&R Plumbing

Extensions, Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Patios All building work undertaken All work guaranteed, FREE quote and advice Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597

or email: hainesplastering@gmail.com

✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing ✭ 24 hours

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

Misted or Broken Windows?

Semi-retired Plumber

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS ● Repairs to all upvc doors and windows ● 24 hr boarding up service and lock change ● Hinges, Window/Door Locks and Handles etc. Call Jamie for free advice and quote on all aspects of upvc. We will beat any like for like quotation

01793 940089 or 07526 647673

upvc-swindon@hotmail.co.uk

• 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

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

k Door hanging

k Fitted wardrobes k 15 years experience

Call 01793 514069 or 07885 972172 e: ellisj10@sky.com www.delliscarpentry.co.uk

Home extensions/rewires Replacement fuse boards Kitchen & bathroom electrics Data cabling/office conversions Garage/garden power Decorative lights Fault finding/repairs Free help and advice

Fully insured to £2m

Call Dan: 07791 791513 Email: dan@boylectrical.co.uk Visit: www.boylectrical.co.uk

Owen Cleaves

No job too small! LEAKS TAP REPLACEMENT PUMP REPLACEMENT BURST PIPES BATHROOM INSTALLATION GUTTERING REPAIRS

Tel: 07562 664646 01793 932239 email: myplumberswindon@gmail.com

DJR General Builders Ltd

For all your carpentry needs

k Real wood and laminate flooring

Chrome sockets and switches

24hr emergency call out

D E Carpentry

30 years experience

Tel: 01793 271185 Mobile: 07813 950899

Call Luke on

07853 966003

www.haynesconstruction.org.uk

k Kitchen fitting

OAP discount on request

40

Building/Groundworks & Hard Landscaping

Providing plumbing services to clients throughout Swindon

Friendly, reliable service

Free quotations and a friendly service

J’s Electrical

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician • Extra Sockets/lights

• Plastering • Tiling • Coving • Dry-Lining & Plasterboarding • Rendering • Screeding • Fencing

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

Competent, reliable and fully insured. All aspects of building and maintenance work carried out to private and public properties. Please call for a free quotation. 01793 871660 (Office) Mob: 075151 25060 derek.richardson5@virginmedia.com 24 The Elms, Nine Elms Swindon SN5 5XA

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REPAIR & IMPROVE

41

YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE

SWINDON GAS SERVICES www.swindongasservices.co.uk

01793 847517

217129

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

07845 90 80 60 or 01793 700 820

www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

• • • • • • • • • •

Extensions Garage & Loft Conversions Conservatories Garden Walls Patios & Fencing Plastering Wall & Floor Tiling Laminate & Wood Flooring Block Paving Painting & Decorating All our work is carried out to your complete satisfaction

Contact: Pete

Tel: 01793 932 570 Mob: 07790 283 186

Affordable luxury fitted wardrobes, measured, manufactured and fitted from only £495 Made to measure, floor to ceiling, a wide range of traditional and modern designs in various finishes For a free brochure and no obligation quote Call 01793 827188 www.mryprojects.co.uk

★ boiler changes ★ boiler breakdown ★ full central heating systems ★ heating system upgrades ★ power flushing ★ bathroom suites ★ all types of plumbing work undertaken ★ no call out charge ★ 15 years experience 550065

WARMSHIELD SERVICES LTD

• Boiler breakdowns and maintenance contracts from £15/month • Boiler servicing from £59 + VAT • Landlords Gas Safety and PAT testing • Boiler and heating systems upgrades • Full central heating designs and installation • Power flushing / Descaling Combi • General plumbing boilers from from tap washers to £1,350 full bathroom suites + VAT • Free no obligation quotes u 10% discount with this advert (quote ref WL 2714) u £500 off any new boiler installed

559105

Tel: 01793 753341

www.heatingswindon.com

GASTECH THE INDEPENDENT GAS SPECIALISTS

• Servicing, Repairs, Installation • Central Heating (including Combination boilers and Warm Air) • Landlord Safety Checks • Cookers, Fires, Water Heaters

142573

SERVICE CONTRACT SPECIALISTS

FOR GAS SERVICE CALL 01793 848800 6 Templars Way Industrial Est, Marlborough Rd, W. Bassett SN4 7SR

www.gastechwilts.co.uk

Treated Landscape Sleepers (Pine for longevity) 2.4 metres long by 200 x 100mm • • • • • • •

Gates Fencing Decking Trellis Panels Wood Preservatives Garden Tools Raised Garden Beds

T: 01793 783879

E: jez1@webbswood.co.uk

W: www.webbswood.co.uk

Find us on facebook.com/webbswood Proud sponsors of Swindon Supermarine FC

Southdown Farm, Faringdon Road, (A420) Longcot, Oxon SN7 7UA swindonlink.com n October 2016

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REPAIR & IMPROVE YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE

STYLISH BATHROOMS Approved installer for BATHSTORE and WREN. 5 year guarantee on all workmanship. Fully insured CRB Police checked

01793 320773 07779 006360

darrenbakerstewart@ rocketmail.com

DECORATOR Quality painting and decorating at an affordable price 40 years experience No VAT Free estimates For professional, reliable and friendly service call

GBD Services 01793 979282 or 07453 966627

01793 321981 07775 840236

EP ID PR

General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

Free estimates Call Jamie on 01793 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

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

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

DECORATOR r

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

Call 01793 721455 or 07976 885203

www.trevorwyse.com

PLANS DRAWN Loft conversion & extension specialist. Complete house design and commercial work undertaken. From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given. 7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

CJ Building Services • All aspects of building work • Extensions from planning consent to completion • Refurbishments • All joinery, plumbing and electrical work undertaken • 30 years experience For a free quotation contact:

01793 813853 07813 906863

cwjgarrett@tiscali.co.uk

BSJ PLASTERING & DECORATING SERVICES H

ain ter

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

For free quotation call Paul on

&D eco

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

• High class painting and decorating •30 years experience •Competitive rates •Interior & exterior •References available •Reliable friendly service, all work undertaken

J S Property Services

rat o

FREE ESTIMATES

DECORATOR INSIDE AND OUT

CARPENTRY

INTERIOR H EXTERIOR H WALLPAPERING

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

Call Stuart on 01793 727659 or 07809 368051

All areas of Plastering, Decorating and Refurbishment undertaken • Ceilings and Walls Plastered • Coving • Rendering • Painting & Decorating - Internal & External • Complete Home Improvements undertaken • Free quotations

Please contact Brian Jones

Mobile: 07976 572905 Home: 01793 725834 Professional, reliable and friendly service

www.swindonplasterer.com

GILES BROS FLOOR & WALL TILING SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526 Find us on Facebook 42

TILING WALL & FLOOR SPECIALIST Please call Leon for a free quote

TEL: 01793 330975 MOB: 07919 255673 Email: leon.jack@hotmail.co.uk

Kitchens, Bathrooms and Conservatories

• Specialise in wet rooms • Supply and fix service • Complete bathroom service • Underfloor heating • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering • Free estimates

Contact Mat: 07738 298803 mat@middlesextilingltd.co.uk www.middlesextilingltd.co.uk

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YOUR GUIDE TO HOME MAINTENANCE

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

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879 email: grservices@hotmail.co.uk

www.grservicesswindon.co.uk

Quality Plumbing & Heating Est. 30 years • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & tiling • Power showers • Outside taps Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367 www.swindonheating.co.uk

Services

(Household Maintenance) Handyman • Plastering • Carpentry • Garden maintenance • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen installation • Fencing & Patios • Power jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive rates, flexible hours, reliable, no job too small For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

Mobile: 07764 511933 or Tel: 01793 879069

Plumbing

& Heating ❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring, all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed 302877 Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

MJP Home Creations Creation Born Of Perfection Specialists in kitchens bathrooms and wetrooms Design and installation, plastering, plumbing, electrics, underfloor heating and tiling

Contact Matthew Pollard: 07779 318717 info@mjphomecreations.com See our customer testimonials: www.mjphomecreations.com

Approved Plumber

mjplumbing64@gmail.com

UNITS 19-20 KENDRICK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SWINDON WILTS SN2 2DU

TEL: 01793 536784 SANSUM SAND & GRAVEL SUPPLY TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND TRADE CUSTOMERS BRICKS, CONCRETE BLOCKS,

RJ PeaRce Plumbing & Heating ltd Over 20 years experience in plumbing & heating work • Central heating • Bathrooms & showers

BLOCK PAVING, PATIO SLABS, SAND,

7 YEAR GUARANTEE

GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, BARK,

on Worcester Bosch Ri Si and Cdi boilers

• Competitive rates • All work guaranteed

CELCON BLOCKS,

CANTABURY SPAR, LANDSCAPE FABRIC, DRAINAGE CHANNELS,

Accredited Installer

BUILDING CHEMICALS,

• No job too small

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

ROCK SALT AND CEMENT 203455

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SERVICE SECTOR YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTANCY

CJD

ACCOUNTANCY LTD

Craig Dell FCCA

Chartered Certified Accountant Over 20 year’s experience for all your accountancy & taxation needs including: • Self Assessments • Sole Traders • Partnerships • Limited Companies • Available evenings and weekends • Fixed fee quotes • No VAT • First consultation free

BOOK-KEEPING Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 343255 M: 07557 399987 Email: cjd.accountancy@virginmedia.com

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.cjd-accountancy.co.uk

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

Abacus Cleaning Services

OVEN CLEANING

Plus hobs and extractors Fixed pricing examples Single Oven £45 - Range £75 No hidden extras, includes racks, doors, glass 20 years experience No toxic chemicals in your home Reliable & Friendly Free Quotation To book your oven clean call

01793 877677 or email:

office@enlan.co.uk

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

Aerial Solutions • Does your picture freeze and break up? • Would you like TV points in other rooms? • Do you want Freesat or Sky installed? Then contact your local VAT free aerial and satellite installers

01793 744957

50% off digital aerials

CLEANING

Computer problems? Let us help

PC repairs and maintenance System upgrades, networking Custom built computers Windows home server installs Virus removal Data recovery Internet solutions Web design With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

Tel: 01793 325685

44

WINDOW CLEANING

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

• • • • • • • •

www.compucareuk.com

Call: 01793 854448 or 07976 219671

Call Swindon 01793 474720

We provide a range of computer services for both home and business including:

For a dedicated local service with a Microsoft Certified Professional, with over 21 years experience, call 01793 320 439 or 07799 337 918 E: info@compucareuk.com

Also hinges and locks

Poor Reception Solved Aerials Repaired & Supplied TVs - Hung on your wall and tuned Extra TV Points - For aerial and Sky (In HD!) Sky TV - Also Foreign Language TV

Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

www.abacuscleaningservices.co.uk

For all your computing needs • Hardware & Software Installs & Upgrades • Repairs • Maintenance • PC Security • Home or Business Networking • Wireless Setup • On Site Service, Home or Business

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

01793 421802

Est 2002

Doctor Glass

TV AERIAL SERVICES

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

To arrange for a free estimate call

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Shaun Guard

FURNITURE WANTED

REMOVALS

We like to move it Swindon A charity providing furniture, white goods and household items to local people in need Call the collections line on 01793 683146 HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

We move anything anytime single items, complete house moves or a house clearance Call Mark or Wayne for a free quote on: 01793 323220/531022 07955 716630 / 07484 215063 mark492@hotmail.co.uk

We bring the showroom to you!

Carpet, Vinyl, Wood & Laminate

01793 200071 www.jcarpets.co.uk Great personal service with great prices!

WHITE VAN MAN SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35 • Full house removal • House clearance • Disposal of unwanted items • Any distance long/short • Fully insured NEW: Licensed to remove fridges

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436

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SERVICE SECTOR

45

YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL SERVICES

HALE SKILLS • Washing Machines • Cookers • Dishwashers • Dryers • Vacuum Cleaners Over 30 year’s experience

Call 07963 131429 or 01793 490668

e.mail: haleskills@gmail.com

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 8, Central Trading Estate Signal Way, Swindon SN3 1PD

Tel 01793 847545 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981 Showroom: Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796 swindondoorservices@btinternet.com

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Working in and around the Swindon area • NEW BUILDS & EXTENSIONS • PLUMBING • JOINERY • FASCIAS & SOFFITS • GARDENING & MAINTENANCE • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Call 07970 061123 Email errol@jpsm.co.uk

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

www.jpsm.co.uk

Tel: 01793 469300

M & J Upholsterers

Gogglebox

RE-UPHOLSTERY & ALL SUITE REPAIRS

New TV tuning & system set-up In house TV repairs In house estimates

Re-upholstery of 3 piece suites, dining & fireside chairs etc. Also new seat interiors Seams - Zips - Springs

LEATHER CLEANING Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

Call 07709 453949

Call Darryl Pace on 01793 812738

emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

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Puzzle

13

14

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

15 16

20

17

18 19

22

20

23

21

28

26

24

25

26

27

28

ACROSS

DOWN

1. 5. 7. 9. 10. 11. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 22. 24. 26. 27. 28.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 11. 12. 13. 14. 20. 21. 23. 24. 25.

Throw overboard (8) Stringed instrument (4) Going up (9) West Country city (4) Information (4) Tempest (5) Small farm (5) Register (5) Come in (5) Reward (5) Icy, chilly (5) Pleated frilling (5) Masterstroke (4) Male deer (4) Genuinely (9) Egg yellow (4) North African (8)

Doorpost (4) Shot (anag.) (4) Perspiration (5) Lowest point (5) Worker (4) Rode a bicycle (8) Heinous (9) Talkativeness (9) Guide (5) Of the eye (5) Blend (5) Power of holding (8) Male relative (5) Resolute, robust (5) Pale red (4) Opening for coins (4) Robe (4)

R O E

H E

S

O R F

SUDOKU There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, you should not have to guess.

6 4 7 5 6 2 4 2 5 9 8 1 1 5 3 8 7 3 5 4 6 8 1 9 4 5 7 2 1 3 6 3 8 7 4 2

SOLUTIONS

23 Pink; 24 Slot; 25 Gown.

12

NONAGRAM fore; FORESHORE; free; freer; fresh; fresher; froe; here; hereof; hero; hoer; hoofer; horse; hose; orfe; reef; refer; refresh; roofer; rose; seer; sere; serf; sheer; shoe; shore; sore.

11

QUICK CROSSWORD Across – 1 Jettison; 5 Harp; 7 Ascending; 9 Bath; 10 Data; 11 Storm; 14 Croft; 15 Enrol; 16 Enter; 17 Prize; 18 Gelid; 19 Ruche; 22 Coup; 24 Stag; 26 Sincerely; 27 Yolk; 28 Egyptian.

11

Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, form four words each of four letters which, when placed correctly in the grid, will form a magic square in which the words can be read both horizontally and vertically.

MAGIC SQUARE duet; undo; edge; toes.

11

14 Good; 16 Very Good; 19 Excellent.

Down – 1 Jamb; 2 Tosh; 3 Sweat; 4 Nadir; 5 Hand; 6 Pedalled; 7 Atrocious; 8 Garrulity; 11 Steer; 12 Optic; 13 Merge; 14 Capacity; 20 Uncle; 21 Hardy;

8 10

DODGE TO UNUSED TEE

3 4 6 8 5 7 1 9 2

7 9

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Target scores:

5 9 1 2 6 3 7 8 4

6

7 2 8 9 1 4 3 6 5

5

8

4 1 9 6 8 2 5 3 7

5

6 7 5 3 4 9 2 1 8

4

2 8 3 5 7 1 6 4 9

3

8 3 2 1 9 5 4 7 6

2

MAGIC SQUARE

1 6 7 4 2 8 9 5 3

1

NONAGRAM

9 5 4 7 3 6 8 2 1

QUICK CROSSWORD

Buy a conservatory and get an eco-friendly room Experts in home improvement

With over 50 years experience we can project manage your new conservatory from start to finish, creating an additional room tailor made to suit your needs all year round. SALE

WITH F R SCATT EE CUSHIOER NS

Receive up to £2,000 Free* towards any combination of: • Cane, Rattan or Laminated Wood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters • Lights *Terms and conditions apply

Conservatory Furniture Collection

Market leaders in conservatory technology

LIMITED AVAILA SLOTS BL INSTAL E FOR LATIO BEFOR N CHRIST E MAS

Huge range of Cane, Rattan, Laminated wood combinations New fabrics available Free local delivery

Show site at: Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2QJ OPEN 7 DAYS Tel: 01793 526691 • conservatoryworld@btconnect.com • www.conservatorycentres.co.uk 46

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A BETTER WAY TO KEEP FIT IN SWINDON Whatever activities you enjoy, you’re sure to find something you love at your local Better leisure centre. Activities and facilities include*: • Fully equipped gyms • Swimming pools • Group exercise classes • Racquet sports • Lessons and Courses Choose from a variety of pre-paid and pay & play membership options. Available at: Croft Sports Centre Delta Tennis Centre Dorcan Recreation Complex Haydon Centre Health Hydro Link Centre Oasis Leisure Centre

For your nearest centre and to join today visit www.better.org.uk/swindon

*Terms and Conditions apply. Activities and facilities may vary from centre to centre. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398

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