NW July artwork

No 446 July 2019 GPS delivered door to door to 55,000 homes across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 137,500 Swindon The ladies in charge of keeping our town centre LINK Your Community Magazine North & West Edition ticking p4 Bridlewood School gets back to nature with new outdoor area Page 6 Ambitious plans Page 6 BUSINESS: Are we Page 21 Swindon to be Page 29 revealed to preserve the ready to Switch on to overtaken by zombies Railway Village Tech Swindon? this November Community: P2-20 Swindon Wide: P21 - 29 Leisure: P30-39

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Getting on your bike Pupils love their new woodland area! By Ben Fitzgerald [email protected] By Group Editor Jamie Hill Youngsters at Bridlewood Primary School can now get [email protected] closer to nature thanks to the creation of a woodland Some of you might have noticed area - created by volunteers that there's been a bit of from Nationwide Building political upheaval on a national Society. level. Just a tad. The area includes an idyllic One of the things we pride story telling area, pond, a ourselves on at Swindon Link herb and vegetable patch, a is that we represent all of play kitchen area and trees the community whatever your suitable for climbing. political views. We don't care if you're Leave, Remain, Lab, Lib, Gaynor Simpson, Green or Con, we try our best Bridlewood’s Forest School to represent you all. Although Lead said: “We are very we will come out and say that grateful to all the volunteers we're not a fan of firebrand 'us who visited us three times or them' political discourse. and put in a lot of hard work to help create this. When we do cover politics, like our politics page, we do try The children really enjoy and get columns from all of the coming out here in all sitting parties of our borough weathers.” council. Although we do find it hard to do this when we don't Fellow teacher Jenny receive anything from them Hulse said: “The volunteers despite being chased - come on from Nationwide were Labour and Lib Dems get your great. They held a couple acts together. of fundraising bake off events to raise funds for this Politics has been very divisive project. of late which is one of the reasons why we take an “Having this area is apolitical stance when it comes great for the children - to certain issues like Brexit as we are keen to promote we know readers come from active learning and the both camps. outdoor area provides a lot of opportunity for child But whatever happens centered learning. politically it will never take away from the fact that \"They really get a lot out Swindon is a great place to of coming outside.” live with a community spirit that means we all look out for one Nine-year-old Woody another. Smith, couldn’t agree more: “I think it’s nice and calm and nice to play in. It’s a great place for playing games like hide and seek!” Group Editor and Owner: Jamie Hill ADVERTISING The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden Deputy Editor: Ben Fitzgerald Call 01793 320043 or unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Reporter: Claire Dukes email: [email protected] Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our Sales Admin Manager: Sue Roberts Closing date for August adverts advertisers. Sales: Dave Stewart, Rosy Presley, Kay and editorial: 12 July Wainwright Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford Office Manager: Karen Randall August edition published: 27 July Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com Our Statistics Est. Readership of 137,500 in print & c.50,000 monthly online visitors. Swindon’s largest free publication. Advertising starts from just £51. Positive Media Group Limited, Old Bank House, 5 Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ T: 01793 320043 Email: [email protected] Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at [email protected] or 01793 320043 swindonlink.com n July 2019 3

InSwindon BID Chief Executive Di Powell: supporting town centre business By Ben Fitzgerald InSwindon BID Business the businesses and ourselves [email protected] Development Manager Rachael it’s sharing that intelligence - it Youd (left) and Chief Executive really helps drive down crime Swindon’s Town Centre, is Di Powell in the high street - a lot of it is not alone in having to rapidly prevention so deterring thefts. ,adapt and overcome a host of almost 500 different town vacancy rate is below national economic and social challenges centre businesses. average. We live and work here but that threaten the highstreet as having our dedicated street the hub of the community. We will deal locally with the We should celebrate what we team out there provides that Brunel Centre manager and have got and shine a torch on visible deterrent and I think in Growing economic uncertainty, the Parade and the Regent the things that are really great terms of the success they have radically changing shopping Circus managers and their and positive about our town. had in terms of dealing with habits, and fierce competition marketing teams as well, so we antisocial behaviour - our street both from within the town and are literally talking as a whole One of the major resources team know these individuals further afield have focussed about the town centre. that our businesses value is and however you want to the minds of those in charge of our street team. We have four phrase it, they do build up a shaping the response to these We can’t set policy and we street team ambassadors. They relationship with those street factors on the urgent need for don’t make planning decisions - are the eyes and ears of the drinkers, homeless people. creative solutions. we certainly can’t affect what’s town centre working extremely We are very often a conduit happening in the highstreets closely with businesses, with the to helping those homeless One of the key players in across the UK or locally. But local authority, the police. people and signposting them to steering Swindon through these we can play a big part in appropriate services. choppy waters in the years adapting locally to these Their role is ambassadorial ahead is Di Powell, the Chief challenges. - they are on hand to help We also have taxi marshalls Executive of inSwindon BID: visitors to the town. They carry who work on a Friday and Perception is the key word for out a patrol every morning Saturday night - they are an A Business Improvement me - the perception of the town to ensure that the town centre extension of our street team - District (BID) is a business- centre really concerns me and is welcoming and safe for and their job is to get people led initiative, funded by its we work really hard to try and shoppers safely into a taxi and home. members. change that perception in terms They pay a levy which is of what the BID does and the And they are there to support We also have a caretaker based on the rateable value strategic partners because we our businesses in the town and and while the majority of the of their property. When there’s don’t want people slating the to look out for anything that town centre is the responsibility an appetite to set up a BID town. might need attention, it could of the council, we can provide then there is a ballot that’s be a cracked paving slab or a a top up service though the formed within a predefined Yes we do have some bench that needs cleaning up. week as we have a caretaker geographical area and the empty units, but if you look It’s only a small team but they who works part time. You will businesses vote on whether they at Havelock Street, it is do an amazing job - one that regularly see him cleaning the want that BID or not, based on completely full with no empty largely goes unseen. benches and litter picking and a business plan. units there and it’s full of all removing the smaller pieces “We work really closely with independent retailers. Our Our street team ambassadors of graffiti. We work closely Swindon Borough Council as operate a radio which gives with the police - we suggested a strategic partner and we them direct contact between that they set up a community manage the public realm on policing hub on a temporary their behalf. It’s important to basis last year. They loved the say what’s within our gift to idea and it was so successful change and what isn’t.” that they are going to bring it Di explained that key town back. The idea was to bring centre stakeholders include into use some of the empty Swindon Borough Council, units - to have a regular police First Investments which owns presence as part of community the Brunel and Aberdeen Life engagement. which owns the Parade and Regent Circus. I think it’s no secret that Drawing together these local councils up and down various groups and the country are finding it encouraging greater tough - they are finding that partnership and sharing best their reserves are diminished practice is one of the key because of the strains from roles of inSwindon BID which adult social care - which is 80 represents the interests of percent being paid by our local authority. It’s really tough for them to try to balance their 4 swindonlink.com n July 2019

'InSwindon BID is reaching for creative solutions' budgets. House of Fraser. You have to see a well-known celebrity? We are a tiny team and I The face of the high street is think that’s something that we consider that we have got a “We have bought in Tinchy need to stress. There are four changing and that’s not going on the street team but we to change any time soon. decent footfall in the town - we Stryder and Sarah Aalto to cover a 12 hour day, seven Decisions need to be taken at days a week. We don’t have the level of local government still have a very strong offer. name just a couple, a terrific all working every day - most in terms of creating a level of the time it’s two people playing field. It’s fair to say We still have a majority of the fireworks display over the town working. that while the highstreet is paying the rates they are, they key attractors when people centre, all for free. Loads of We put on events, we engage find it challenging to compete with those members. At the with the likes of the Amazons talk about the shops they like activities going on through the moment we are working on and such. our summer festival in August. to visit regularly. We have day to create the ambiance in We brought in an urban beach We don’t set business rates for the town centre last year - rates are set by central the Debenhams, the House of the town centre to entertain the - it proved such a hit we are government, the rates across bringing that back in. What we the borough were reviewed Fraser, WH Smith, Marks and shoppers and their families. It’s like to do is to position all the in 2017 and they won’t be activity in the town centre. We reviewed again for another Spencer.” a real family affair. But without say these are all the reasons to couple of years unless the come to town. government decides that we The landlords control their a BID that can’t happen.” do need this level playing field Connectivity is really with the online stores. individual property but it’s our One of the common issues important. Making use of empty units job to try and that we hear We are always looking with is just one of the examples of stakeholders at how to improve how inSwindon BID is reaching create that We should celebrate about is the the transport links with the for creative and innovative town centre - we did have a solutions that see the small perception of what we have got and cost of parking shuttle bus a few years ago. team punching above their Swindon to shine a torch on the things - this is set by There’s an audience that comes weight. try and make that are really great and the council but to Swindon from out of town businesses to we do have and we are having ongoing “We care passionately about want to come positive about our town. some input. We conversations with the Borough the town centre. it’s the hub of into the town have worked Council, Network Rail, the the community isn’t it? We are Outlet Village and with Seven constantly hearing about the centre. So as very hard on Capital, the firm behind the highstreet closures but let's think Snowasis development. about the positives. much as we may be losing parking - let’s put things into We’ve all got a vested “We were at risk last year of one or two retailers one week perspective. interest in our town - we live potentially losing the House of here, we work here, why are Fraser and Debenhams but we there’s actually three or four About 11 years ago the BID we not doing our best always have retained them in Swindon so there must be a reason for coming into the town centre the were responsible for working ,to look at the good in the town? that. We all play a part, we are following week so it’s raising with the borough to bring in all using the town for one “They have lost them in thing or another, let’s be neighbouring towns and cities the perception. It’s not just the £2 for four hours and that proud of what we have. - Cirencester has lost their about the shoppers coming remained up until last April, into the town it’s the businesses so as much as people want to coming in as well. knock the council, they held The team at InSwindon BID those rates. They have had to work hard to support their look realistically at what they members, organising a variety can afford, so they did put it of events to draw shoppers up slightly. into the heart of Swindon and We put a whole raft of create a vibrant atmosphere. suggestions forward which “A key word in the business included having some plan is ‘additionality’ so for concessions after 3pm, we example the Christmas lights pushed for free Sunday every year are paid for by the parking because we knew that BID. We also do the fireworks. people do go shopping now Where else can between more on a Sunday. And when 10,000 and 12,000 people go we do events inevitably it’s at completely free of charge to the weekend. Mailbox use the pedestrian crossings, which causes population is increasing traffic at an additional traffic blockage at the entrance alarming rate. Wichelstowe, Tadpole In response to transport planner Becky and exits to major traffic junctions, Farm, Abbey Farm are increasing the ensuring that they become blockage traffic in the town, without any increased Cox (June edition): areas. infrastructure. Swindon’s population has increased from 176,000 in 1998 to For a Transport planner to have the Increased traffic is inevitable as currently 216,00. That’s 40,000 people, opinion that, “increasing roads only more families have three and four cars. meaning in excess of 30,000 cars in the increases traffic” is reversed logic and Obviously Becky Cox is missing the last ten years, and still increasing. probably explains why Swindon’s basic real reasons for the traffic increase. infrastructure is outdated, inadequate The massive Increase in the Swindon David Raymond and dilapidated. More cyclists will increase traffic problems since they ride swindonlink.com n July 2019 5 not on roads but on the pavements and

£7.6m Action Zone plan for Railway Village revamp By Ben Fitzgerald [email protected] places for the people of Swindon to enjoy and help the Ambitious plans to restore the Signed and sealed: Rebecca Barrett of Historic England with town’s economy to thrive. We derelict Mechanics' Institute Swindon Borough Council leader David Renard are looking forward to working and revitalise Swindon’s with Swindon Borough Council historic Railway Village have development of the site. A dedicated project officer and other partners, including been announced by Swindon “A lot of work has been going has already been recruited the Mechanics’ Institution Borough Council. to lead the HAZ. And work Trust, to celebrate Swindon’s on behind the scenes over the is due to begin this summer remarkable heritage. The five-year scheme last 6 months which residents to research the Railway will make use of heritage might not be aware of, but I’m Village and review existing “It’s about pooling resources expertise and £1.6m from confident that we will have a conservation areas and listed to use heritage as a lever Historic England who will work plan in place by the end of the buildings to inform future for regeneration. Heritage in partnership with Swindon year and we will see visible projects in the area. England will be investing Borough Council and other progress within five years.” £1.6m as part of an overall organisations to make the most Rebecca Barrett, Regional pot of £7.6m, to carry out 16 of this unique historic area. He added that revamping Director for Historic England in different projects in the area the Mechanics Institute would the South West said: “Swindon over five years. In addition to the £1.6m be a key element in the wider has so much to be proud funding from Historic England, scheme led by the council to of, particularly the legacy “This is such a hidden gem the scheme will attract a redevelop the wider area. of Brunel’s Great Western and these projects are about further £6m from the council Work will be carried out to Railway works and village. telling its story which is such and other sources. improve footpaths, signage Whilst some of its historic a huge part of people’s lives and public spaces to better buildings have already been in Swindon. There is a huge Speaking at the launch connect the area to the town beautifully refurbished and amount of local pride in these of the Swindon Railway centre. In addition to these brought back to life, there are areas and we will be working Village Heritage Action Zone, physical works there will be still a number showing signs of closely with established groups Councillor Dale Heenan, a series of events, exhibitions, neglect. such as the Mechanics Institute cabinet member for the town publications and tours to raise Trust.” centre, explained: “We are awareness of Swindon’s history “But with investment and committed to visible progress among residents and visitors. imagination they can become The Railway Village Heritage at the Mechanics Institute Action Zone is one of 20 in the next five years. If we nationally. can put forward a business case which shows how this They aim to promote important building can be economic growth and improve used to generate income then the quality of life by breathing everything else should quickly new life into places that are follow on from that.” rich in heritage - unlocking their potential through grant Although the grade II listed funding and sharing of skills building, in Emlyn Square, is and expertise. currently in private ownership, Mr Heenan was confident Historic England is a public that this would not prove body that protects and a significant barrier to the champions places of historic and cultural importance. Historic area is 'England's favourite conservation area' Swindon's historic Railway on top when pitted against it is. But they don’t all stay the truly amazing. Village has been named the strong contenders of Port same, they do change and a Martha Parry of Swindon 'England's Favourite Sunlight Conservation Area town can protect the character Civic Voice said: “It’s Conservation Area' in a and the LIchfield City Centre of them whilst at the same heartwarming, absolutely national competition. Conservation Area in the final time recognising that they can’t heartwarming, and well Members of Swindon Civic three. be kept in aspic and every deserved by the Swindon Voice gathered at the Central Swindon’s railway village was one of them has to reflect the people who came together to Community Centre in Emlyn built shortly after the Great community that they live in. make a case. It has involved Square to celebrate winning Western Railway works was “When we decided to lots of hard work by many the competition run by their established in 1841 to house launch England’s Favourite people in the background. I parent body Civic Voice. workers and their families and Conservation Area, we wanted think we did so well because The historic 19th century formed the basis for a growing to use it to test the enthusiasm people of Swindon know what Railway Village, was one of new community. people have for the place they have with the Railway 249 nominations from around Chair of National Civic where they live. To get people Village.” the country. Voice Joan Humble said: talking about why conservation For more information on Swindon Railway Village “Conservation areas are part areas matter What it has Swindon Civic Voice see Conservation Area came out of what makes the town what turned out to be is something www.swindoncivicvoice.org.uk 6 swindonlink.com n July 2019

New College Fashion students showcase talents Talented make-up artists, from New College, put their skills on show at their stunning end of year show. The Media make-up students showcased their diverse skills and creativity at the Parade in the town centre. Their show, entitled The Four Realms of the Nutcracker, incorporated full hair frames/ fantasy hair, costumes, makeup, body art, props and stage setting. Swindon's creatives join forces Despite delays mural will go ahead By Claire Dukes [email protected] The location of a new town centre mural is now up in the air, causing delays to the community project. However, it has been confirmed that the By Claire Dukes the new group. Ahead of the mural will still go ahead. Swindon Borough Council’s [email protected] launch she said: \"The idea Last month inSwindon BID Cabinet Member for the town for the network came from centre, said: “I would like to The Creative Swindon Network the opportunity to submit an announced the town centre will thank inSwindon BID and Artsite launched last month, putting application for Arts Council be getting a new mural thanks for the tremendous amount a panel of creatives at the funding specifically for to a collaborative effort with of hard work that has gone forefront to discuss what could towns that the Arts Council Artsite and SCAN (Swindon in to this art installation. I am be done to get the town's classed as having limited arts Climate Action Network). very pleased that the sale of cultural scene thrown into the engagement. this prominent site in the town spotlight. The mural was originally centre has accelerated and an \"We had so much interest intended to be displayed on announcement on its future will At the launch the new initiative from people wanting to be part the panels cordoning off Aspen be made shortly. It is crucial invited residents to have their of potential projects.\" House, however the council- that visible progress in town say on the progression of the owned building has now been centre regeneration is made town's creative and cultural Allie Brown, another founder sold and is no longer a suitable and, as a result of the sale, this development. The panel - of the group, added: \"You location. Now inSwindon BID site is no longer suitable for the which included theatre director don't need to be a professional and Artsite trustee Sally Taylor mural. Olly Webb, local author and artist or fantastically talented. - who will be leading the blogger Angela Atkinson and You might think you have no project - are working alongside \"I am very keen for the Cll Dale Heenan - also shared creative skills at all, which Swindon Borough Council to council to continue working with their vision for the town. is fine. You just need to be find a new location that will inSwindon BID and Artsite to interested in helping to improve ensure the longevity of the find a more appropriate home Hannah Parry is one of the what happens in Swindon. It’s artwork. as soon as possible.” leading figureheads behind about being stronger together.” Councillor Dale Heenan, swindonlink.com n July 2019 7

Volunteers thanked Delay hit Snowasis will still become a reality By Ben Fitzgerald said: “Seven Capital can on site to begin the construction For National Volunteers [email protected] confirm that despite current phase of this exciting project Week (1- 7 June), the Great Western Hospital is Swindon’s £270m Snowasis uncertainty, the project is and are working with our recognising the difference development has been making good progress. partners and Swindon Borough that their volunteers make. Council on pushing forwards as delayed for six months. \"We have recently agreed GWH is supported by But Seven Capital, the more than 400 volunteers terms on further financing quickly as possible.\" who give a total of around company behind the scheme, of the wider project, which, The company pointed 3,500 hours of their time a once documented, anticipated month. Volunteers support 70 is keen to stress that the to a climate of economic different departments within landmark project will still go the acute hospital and in ahead. The start date delay for July, will then enable us uncertainty, as a factor in local community services. to complete detailed design the delays. The ambitious has been blamed on difficulties for the construction of the development is a key element A volunteer’s role may in obtaining funding. include anything from filing to development. in Swindon Borough Council’s feeding patients, with 61% A spokeswoman for the firm \"We are now anticipating the economic development of volunteer placement areas strategy. being patient facing roles. last quarter of this year to be A number of Great Western Hospitals NHS FT volunteers Oasis pool opens following flume-tastic revamp will be celebrated on Friday Swindon’s Oasis Leisure progressed into a 7 June 2019 at the Volunteer Centre’s Water Park competitive swimming Long Service Awards. The has been reopened club. (Swindon ASC) and awards ceremony is an following a major three- is currently the Downs annual event and is an month refurbishment Syndrome Junior World opportunity to thank all of programme. Record Holder for 100m the Trust’s volunteers, as well freestyle. The staff and as to acknowledge volunteers On hand to open the coaches at the Oasis who have given long service- venue was Wiltshire have been superb and with recognition for every 5 Swimmer of the instrumental to Holly’s years spent as a volunteer. year 2017/18 Holly success. She has been a Sullivan. Holly has regular user of the Oasis To find out more about Downs Syndrome and ever since.” become a volunteer call the has represented the UK Voluntary Services team on at the Downs Syndrome The revamp saw 01793 605247. International Swimming the introduction of a Organisation's European new flume tower in the Work is complete Championships. swimming pool and new slide divers, a new boiler The major transformation Holly’s father Mike and new pool filters, of Wellington Street, Sullivan said: “Holly along with new showers in connecting the railway started swimming at the the changing rooms. station to the town centre, is Oasis when she was 4yrs now open to traffic, cyclists old and has loved the Discounted family swim and pedestrians. pool ever since! sessions costing just £10 are available to book The newly installed toucan After completing online to celebrate the crossing will be in action and the Learn to Swim launch day. all temporary road signs Programme, she and temporary traffic lights will be removed. Some of the improvements made are: New, separate paths for cyclists and pedestrians. A new, raised road with contrasting surfacing and sharper road markings. A safer junction where Wellington Street meets Milford Street and Manchester Road. A new zebra crossing over Wellington Street and new toucan crossing over Milford Street. 8 swindonlink.com n July 2019

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Musical treatment Italian display team set to dazzle visitors to RIAT The skies above the Royal An innovative form of therapy is music to the ears International Air Tattoo in of dementia patients at Great Western Hospital. Gloucestershire are set to Patients at GWH have turn red, white and green as benefitted from visits by a Nordoff Robbins music the Italian Air Force returns therapist. to delight spectators with Nordoff Robbins is the largest independent music exhilarating flying displays. therapy charity in the UK, dedicated to changing the Flying on Saturday 20 and lives of vulnerable and isolated people with a wide Sunday 21 July, the Italian Air range of needs. Force’s Frecce Tricolori Display Jupiter ward is regularly visited by Gillian Farkas- Team will be flying ten two-seat Credit: Airwolfhound Blake, a local music therapist. fighter Aermacchi MB-339-A/ display is just jaw dropping!” space technology firm Skyrora’s PANs. Also in the air visitors can Black Arrow – the UK’s only Consultant geriatrician and rocket to successfully launch clinical lead for dementia, Visitors can also look forward see the last UK display from a satellite into orbit, are on Sarah White, said: “The to three further flying displays the RAF Red Arrows before display for up-close viewing clinical care we provide for from the Italian Air Force’s they head off on their North in the critically-acclaimed patients with dementia and Typhoon, C-27J Spartan American tour as well as a TechnoZone®. delirium is vitally important transporter and M-346 Jet special NATO 70th anniversary but sometimes, holistic Trainer. flypast. On the ground, the Air Other showground attractions approaches can enhance Tattoo boasts an impressive include the Activity Zone, the quality of that care and Head of Marketing for the static display including the Vintage Village and RAF really help a patient to feel Air Tattoo Helen Webb said: Austrian C-130K Hercules, Experience. Tickets for the better. We know that music “Our friends from the Italian Air two of the Belgian Air Force’s airshow (19-21 July) which can reduce agitation and Force are once again showing F-16AMs, the Hungarian Air is staged annually in support lower stress levels and for fantastic support for the show Force’s JAS-39 Gripen and of the RAF Charitable Trust, individuals with dementia and we are extremely grateful The Royal Canadian Air Force’s can be bought online at or delirium in an unfamiliar that they are providing four CP-140 Aurora and CC-139 www.airtattoo.com or by hospital environment, that is acts for the flying display. Our Hercules. calling 01285 713456. All so important. visitors love the colourful Frecce accompanied under-18s go Tricolori and my personal Elsewhere, Starchaser free. Lottery cash awards favourite; the magnificent C-27J Industries’ Nova 2 rocket and Swindon’s community Swindon & Wiltshire Pride Launch Event Announced! organisations are celebrating after being awarded more By Jamie Hill than £65,000 in National [email protected] Lottery funding. The money will be distributed by The Swindon & Wiltshire Pride exciting launch night, which will Community Zone, and Craft National Lottery Community has announced details of their get us all in the Pride spirit!” zone which is new for 2019. Fund, the largest funder of launch event in July, which will community activity in the UK. begin the countdown to the Swindon & Wiltshire Pride It is a free event that is open 2019 festival. sponsored by Nationwide to everyone, organised by Headway Swindon has takes place in Swindon’s Town volunteers for all to enjoy. been awarded £6,300 to The night will have a festival Gardens on 10 August, with the The event is a safe and fun create bespoke cookbooks theme, with bright colours Parade starting at 11:15am. environment for members of for survivors of brain injury. encouraged and a prize for the community to come along the best outfit! Singer ‘Jay-Jay’ The Old Town Gardens will and meet new people and Inner Flame has been and DJ ‘D’ will get the party be filled with a burst of colour make friends. awarded £9,300 to run a really started – hosted by ‘The and Festival atmosphere, programme of virtual reality Fabulous Miss Bridy and The centered around the ‘Swindon & Wiltshire Pride courses for young people Two Notes’ - with karaoke and Nationwide Stage and Stephen Festival Launch Party’ will be with mental health issues. a huge £200 raffle ensuring G Sloan Stage (sponsored by held at the town's ‘The Waiting Prime Theatre will use its the countdown to Swindon & Thames Water). The Festival Room’ venue on Saturday, July £10,000 grant to set up Wiltshire Pride gets off to a will also have a Family Zone, 6th from 8pm. ‘Inclusive Arts for Deaf Young memorable start. Arts Zone, Shopping Zone, People’, a programme of www.swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk art-based activities for deaf This is a free event but children and young people in donations on the door will be the town. gratefully received. 10 swindonlink.com n July 2019 Social Media Manager, Andy, says “We’re so excited that the 2019 Pride Festival is getting closer, and we can start to share our plans for the day with everyone. We’ve got a great entertainment team that have put together a really

From knife crime to catfishing - Swindon school students get lessons in life By Claire Dukes part in scenarios that they Mr Macpherson says that Mrs Timi Alabi attended the [email protected] might encounter later in life. due to these changes not all event with her Year 6 class This year scenarios included adults will be able to guide from East Witchel Primary There’s only so much a child personal safety, dog safety, children through all aspects School. She said: “All the can learn inside a classroom, weapons awareness, internet of the world they’re growing different sessions so far have which is why primary school safety and Envirocrime. up in today, but schemes like been really enlightening and pupils across Swindon took a Junior Good Citizen are better insightful. I think it’s a very day out to learn about knife Wiltshire Police and equipped to communicate good programme.” crime, catfishing and road Crime Commissioner Angus current issues to children which safety. Macpherson joined students some parents may not have Mr Jon Souch, Year 5 and 6 for a session. He said: “This experienced. He said: “They’re Lead at Colebrook Primary More than 1700 students for me is what education is definitely faced with different School, added: “They’ve had from across 38 Swindon all about – it’s not just about challenges and so much of it some really thought-provoking primary schools took part in reading, writing, taking is hidden that the generation issues to deal with and they’ve the annual Junior Good Citizen exams and getting Ofsted before can’t deal with it. had some very sensible, scheme in June. passes. Education is setting mature responses and they’ve you up for the rest of your \"Parents don’t realise, or we retained a lot of what we’ve Last month Year 5 and life like learning about knife don’t realise, that the world is done in school as well – so 6 classes from Colebrook crime; learning about why constantly changing, and we that was really pleasing to Primary School and East not to carry a knife, what see it in the way it was for us.\" see.” Witchel Primary School got the odds are of you being a lessons in life at the Punjabi victim; and learning about the Community Centre as police consequences of being with officers, firemen and the Youth someone who is carrying a Offending Team took over knife. from teaching. \"For parents and teachers The multi-agency scheme, today there have been many which aims to equip children societal shifts since their own with life skills as they adolescence; accessibility to transition from primary the internet; social interaction; school to secondary school, and social values.\" enables children to take IMH Group withdraws from Swindon Following lengthy discussions, a provider to take immediate and in light of ongoing action when there is sufficient challenges, Swindon Clinical reason to believe a contract Commissioning Group have has been breached. Following confirmed that Integral Medical a meeting of the CCG, IMH Holdings (IMH) will withdraw and senior clinical staff, and from its operations in Swindon. due to the ongoing technical issues, IMH has agreed to Since September 2018, the end its contract with the five IMH Group had been working practices.\" in partnership with five GP practices – Moredon Medical Hearing of the announcement Centre, Abbey Meads Medical South Swindon MP Robert Centre, Phoenix Surgery, Eldene Buckland said: \"I have been Surgery and Taw Hill Medical working closely with North Practice – to provide a range Swindon MP, Justin Tomlinson of consolidated back-office since IMH first became involved services, such as administration, with the running of a number recruitment and IT services. of surgeries in Swindon and I have shared my constituents' During this time, patients have concerns. I have raised many continually raised concerns issues with the CCG, and at the difficulties faced when am glad that the following attempting to contact their announcement has been surgery and book appointments made. It is right that IMH are using the newly introduced withdrawing.\" single contact centre, often referred to as the Hub. A spokesperson for CGG said: \"Earlier this month, the CCG issued IMH with a remedial notice, which requires swindonlink.com n July 2019 11

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Well-loved chippy celebrates 50 years of serving Swindon Sims Chippy is celebrating 50 bought the business. years of Business in Swindon Aiden decided to keep this year. trading as Sims Chippy. “When Pete Sims first opened Sims a business has been trading Chippy in Thames Avenue, so successfully for the past 50 Green Meadow in 1969, then years, why would you change branched out, opening three the name. other chip shops, Beechcroft Road Stratton St Margaret, \"The new management and Penhill, and Westbury. staff have been working closely together to offer our Pete’s family and fellow customers the best priced and colleagues assisted in the good quality fish and chips. management and day to day We have done this by keeping running of all four shops. our potatoes, fish batter, oil and fish to the highest quality Pete decided to sell up and that is on the market today. retire in 2002, but keeping the Sims Chippy in Beechcroft Road \"Visit us and you will get a where his son Darren took over warm welcome from all our the reins until earlier this year, staff, and give your tongue that when new owner Aiden Zheng sizzling Sims feeling.\" HUGE CHOICE Our range of replacement doors and drawer fronts are available in vinyl wrapped, acrylic, solid woods, painted and made to any size. WORKTOPS All types of worktop supplied. EXTRA UNITS AND APPLIANCES Additional cabinets can be made to measure and we can supply all major appliance brands sinks and accessories. GUARANTEE All our work is insured and guaranteed. swindonlink.com n July 2019 13

School profile: St. Joseph's Get to know the schools in your area. \"St. Joseph’s is located in the This issue: St. Joseph's Catholic College centre of Swindon, offering a Address: Ocotal Way, Swindon SN3 3LR broad and balanced Contact: 01793 714200 education for 11 to 16 year Website: www.stjosephscollege.net olds. St. Joseph's current site on Ocotal Way was opened to students in 2007. We are the only Our aim is to provide a Catholic secondary school in Swindon and each year welcome an intake of students from schools caring and supportive across the town. The College is very popular and in response to being over-subscribed has environment in which each increased the number of places on offer. individual can progress academically, spiritually and We would welcome any prospective students and parents for a tour of the College. This can be culturally. We believe that arranged using our contact details above. there should be no ceiling on achievement and that in each Section 48 Inspection: student there is the potential to succeed. Inspectors were extremely positive about our students We are a Catholic College and many aspects of the and that ethos allows us to College. Their comments nurture the young people in include: our care so they feel safe, developing a sense of \"Students benefit significantly respect for themselves, from the College's strong, others and the environment. inclusive community, enriched by it's ethnic diversity and We are an inclusive high quality of relationships community which sets high between staff and students.\" standards in all that we do. We believe in motivating \"The quality of pastoral care young people by providing shown to all members of the them with the best learning community, both staff and opportunities within and students, is outstanding.\" beyond the classroom.\" \"The behaviour of students is Mr. Paul Hughes exemplary; they are acutely Executive Principal alert to the needs of others and seek justice for all within Photo: Celebrating Sixty Years of Catholic Education and beyond the college community.\" Ofsted Report: Comments from 2018 Ofsted Inspection: \"Strong leadership has led to improvements in teaching and learning in different areas of the school. This, in turn, has led to sustained strong achievement in subjects such as mathematics, English, religious education and languages since the previous inspection. In different year groups and subjects, pupils apply themselves to their studies. They behave well and share positive relationships with staff. This is because leaders have created an orderly school environment, underpinned by the Catholic faith that forms a key part of the school's identity. This is a school where pupils respect others and, in large part, work harmoniously with each other in a purposeful way.

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Knock out! Swindon youth project awarded £1k A leading housebuilder has community arts and education selected a regional youth help towards the costs of new participate in sport.” projects. fitness project to receive lighting installation for the Building Futures is being £1,000 of community funding. gym.” Monthly grants of £1,000 will delivered through the be awarded across Persimmon’s Swindon Children’s Scrapstore Olivia McCann, from the Persimmon Charitable 32 regional businesses to was chosen as a winner of organisation, said: “We are so Foundation and is aimed improve facilities and the the Persimmon Homes Building grateful to Persimmon Homes at community projects for delivery of vital grassroots Futures initiative which supports for this donation. people aged under 18, community projects. groups providing activities for targeting grassroots sports under-18s. “Swindon Children’s groups, charities dealing with In addition to the £1,000 Scrapstore has ambitious plans physical and mental health monthly awards, three The Swindon Children’s to expand the services offered issues or awareness, as well as initiatives will go on to win Scrapstore is a registered and enable more children to £100,000 each through a charity and community resource national award scheme voted centre that promotes re-use on by the public. The overall as a means of protecting the winners will be named at a environment. Its latest project is gala dinner for finalists in called Scrappers boxing gym October. and community centre. In each sector – sport, Pauline Fletcher, sales education & arts, and health – and marketing director for as well as the £100,000 first Persimmon Homes Wessex, prize, there will be a £50,000 said: “Swindon Children’s second prize and a £20,000 Scrapstore provides access third prize, while a further 87 to fitness equipment for shortlisted projects will each young people in Swindon, receive £5,000. encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. To find out more about or to apply to Building Futures visit We are pleased to help www.persimmonhomes.com/ with this donation, which will building-futures/ Snowdonia trek for air ambulance Dance couples sought for Prospect Supporters of Wiltshire Air Ambulance – including Olympian The Prospect Hospice is looking for couples to take part in a Shelley Rudman – overcame torrential rain and cold Strictly Come Dancing style dance off. Those taking part could temperatures on Saturday (8 June) to complete a challenge in be in with a chance to win the ‘Prospect Does Strictly’ trophy at Snowdonia National Park. their grand finale on November 13 2019. Previous dancing experience is not needed as lessons will be The team of 13 took part in a 12 mile cycle ride around the provided. You’ll also get full celebrity treatment by having base of Mount Snowdon before trekking to the summit. After professional hair and make-up on the night. Registration is £35 descending down the mountain their final challenge involved per person, and minimum sponsorship is £300 per person. This is kayaking in a lake and by which time the rain had stopped and a great opportunity to unleash your competitive side and have the sun appeared. The sponsorship raised by the team, which fun while raising funds for Prospect Hospice. currently stands at £7,200, will enable Wiltshire Air Ambulance To register, visit: www.prospect-hospice.net to continue saving lives. Walking challenge Period poetry comp Royal award for charity A new walking challenge that shows off Young poets are being invited to join The Swindon & District Branch of the best of Wiltshire’s beautiful scenery the fight against period poverty by Parkinson’s UK has been awarded the will help raise money for Julia’s House, penning a poem to mark Menstrual Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s Hygiene Day. hospice. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Wiltshire-based charity Women and Service (QAVS) is the highest award The 26-mile Great Wiltshire Walk Girls (Development) provides young given to UK volunteer groups, and is begins and ends at the Kings Arms pub girls and women in India with vital equivalent to the MBE. in All Cannings on July 20. Walkers will sanitary products and education about take in landmarks including three White menstruation. The citation stated: \"The work your Horses, a hill fort, ancient defences and group does for the community was very a stone circle, as well as stunning views. The poems will be judged by authors much admired by the Independent Harriet Whitehorn and Perdita and Assessment Committee, chaired by Sir Registration costs £30 and all walkers Honor Cargill, co-Founder of Women Martyn Lewis CBE, and I am delighted get a free Julia’s House t-shirt and and Girls. to inform you that your group has been a route map. Sign up for The Great selected as a recipient for The Queen's Wiltshire Walk at www.juliashouse.org/ To find out more about the charity's Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) greatwiltshirewalk. work and to enter the competition, visit 2019.\" www.womenandgirls.org.uk 16 swindonlink.com n July 2019

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Orchid Care Home opens doors to public Female footballers sought by club Abbeymeads Football Club participation for some time, is on the hunt for the next with ever increasing costs this generation of female players grant has now enabled us to after receiving a Grow the increase participation in the Game grant. girls' game even more. The scheme, funded by The We will now have two girls' Football Association and teams running next season. delivered by the Football Also with the FA and SSE's help Foundation, will enable FC we managed to get funding Abbeymeads to create a new for a SSE Wildcats girls A care home in North Swindon Djoanah Turla, Orchid Care team of budding lionesses in development centre for 5-11 opened its doors to the public Home's manager, said: \"We to showcase the facilities - at Orchid pride ourselves in the U14 category. year old girls who want to including a hair salon and delivering optimum levels of dementia suite - it has to offer care to those who reside with The Grow the Game scheme learn football in a safe and fun for prospective users. us. The facilities in the home are second to none and the sees grants of £1,500 environment. The Orchid Care Home, ample space around the home based in North Swindon, will enables the service users to be awarded to community football \"As a club we are working be opening its doors to the independent and enjoy their public Saturday 8 June. individual pursuits in a safe clubs wishing to create new closely on increasing all aspects environment.\" Established in 2013 the care teams, especially amongst of the game and with 24 home currently provides 84 The care home is currently bedrooms, taking in service implenting internal changes under-represented groups. mixed teams, two girls' teams users from across Wiltshire following a recent CQC (Care who require general nursing Quality Comission) report This year, funding was made and an open aged team we care or suffer from a mental outlining the need for more health issue - including staff as current employment available for clubs looking will continue to keep growing Alzheimer’s and Dementia. The has been rated 'Inadequate'. care home also provides end www.carehomesgroup.com to create new female and as long as the funding and of care services. disability football teams, which participation is there.\" can assist towards the costs of The club is looking for FA coaching courses; FA league sponsorship from local and affiliation costs; referees’ fees; national businesses, is it also first aid kits; football kit and looking for anyone who would equipment. like to become a volunteer Clint Ricketts FC Abbeymeads coach. Chairman, said: ”As a club we For further information visit have been trying to increase www.fcabbeymeads.co.uk

Pets and Nature Meet the new arrivals at Studley Grange - four raccoon dogs! Once again Studley Grange They have a natural enclosure Butterfly World Craft Village with plenty of long grass to & Farm Park has stepped in to hide and play in as well as provide a safe, new permanent trees. home for unwanted animals Studley Grange Butterfly that would otherwise have World, Craft Village and Farm been euthanized. Park, is a great day out for all The animals in questions are the family. four Tanuki also commonly Not only can you see the known as Raccoon dogs. There Tanuki in our zoo area, you can are two neutered males and also explore the farm park, two females, called Kobe, and see the many beautiful Bandit, Igloo and Niko. butterflies in our tropical Tanuki became popular exotic butterfly houses. pets a few years ago, like by owners who no longer indigenous to East Asia and Then treat yourself to a the Raccoon and many other wished to care for them or did are not related to the Raccoon lovely homemade craft item mammals. Tanuki are wild not understand how to. but are actually part of the from our craft village, and animals that require specialist In February 2018 Tanuki canine family. Their natural enjoy homemade cakes in our care by experienced keepers. joined the invasive species list habitat is woodland areas and Butterfly Café. Unfortunately a lot of Tanuki and can no longer be bred or marsh land. Studley Grange Butterfly did not receive this care in sold in the U.K. This meant that Lucky for Kobe, Bandit, Igloo World Craft Village & Farm domestic situations, resulting a lot of owners could no longer and Niko they came to Studley Park, Hay Lane, Wroughton, in a number escaping their keep them. Grange and have settled in SN10 2SN (just off junction 16 enclosures or being released In the wild Tanuki are really well. of the M4) Drove Vets announces branch opening at Ridgeway Farm development By Drove Veterinary Hospital branch will thrive and be a After months of hard work we support to the local community.” are proud to announce that Our Pet Club is also popular Drove Vets at Ridgeway Farm with existing clients who like opened on 1st July. to save money on routine The very new and shiny treatments by paying a small premises are located on the monthly fee. Drove Vets Ridgeway Farm development Ridgeway Farm will be hosting between Peatmoor and Taw a series of coffee mornings Hill and offers modern facilities is ensuring that there is you! Drove’s Operations and in July for new and existing including fully equipped dedicated parking available Nursing Manager Lyndsay clients alike to pop in and have theatre and prep/recovery close to the branch and that Hughes says “We are so a slice of cake and a tour of area, dental facilities, Xray we can offer evening and excited to open another branch the new facilitites. For more and Ultrasound – all with weekend appointments as well that offers such comprehensive information visit our website or 24/7 out of hours support as daytime appointmentss. care and matched with the Facebook page. from Drove main hospital in Drove Vets also offer Online experienced team of vets and Wroughton. Booking so you can book your nurses we have at Ridgeway For more information on pet's appointment when it suits Farm we really feel that the Drove Vets Ridgeway Farm The key points we have contact any of our branches or focused on for our clients visit www.drovevets.co.uk Furbulous new premises for classy dog grooming business Absolutely Furbulous has There are presently three a peaceful, low stress offers ‘New Puppy Socialising’ expanded into new premises. grooming tables, with room for environment for your pets, to enable new pets to get used Originally located within further expansion. with free car parking just to the grooming environment, the Craft Village at Studley outside. Clients also have the and the noise of the dryers. Grange Garden and Leisure Absolutely Furbulous opportunity to browse the rest Park in Wroughton. the currently employs a Salon of the site, including PetShed, Regular visitors will also purpose built specialised unit, Manager, and one part-time and the Garden Centre. be able to take advantage has a much larger open plan Senior Stylist, who have almost of our loyalty scheme, space, with room for up to four 20 years’ experience between Not only do they offer which offers the reward of groomers at any one time. them, plus a newly qualified quality standard Dog a discount in PetShed. To part-time assistant Stylist who Grooming, but you can book an appointment, call The new building boasts two is looking to complete her ‘upgrade your groom’ with 07516 961962 or email large stainless steel baths for Level 3 in Dog Grooming later one of their customised Spa absolutelyfurbulous@ smaller and medium dogs, plus this year. Packages. As part of the petshedonline.co.uk or a low ‘step in’ shower cubicle PetShed Puppy Club scheme, message via facebook www. for the bigger breeds. Because of its unique Absolutely Furbulous also facebook.com/AbFurbulous location, the Salon offers swindonlink.com n July 2019 19

The Busin The South West’s largest expo returns to Swindon for its 7th Year The Great British Expos, which The two speakers confirmed The South West Expo will give Dragons' Den star Edward Hollands, the runs the South West Expo, have so far are (more to be you the opportunity to network, founder of DrivenMedia, who will be now been running the event announced soon): be inspired by its phenomenal speaking for over 7 years, and has had keynote speakers, informed by over 36,000 SMEs attending Dragons’ Den star – Edward its industry-leading workshops empowered to grow their their events since they launched Hollands is the Founder of and be empowered to take business.” in Swindon in 2012. Since the DrivenMedia. Ed is an Award- your business to the next level. first expo, they have gained Winning Young Entrepreneur Last year one business owner Businesses can register by the respect of the industry and who is disrupting the UK’s visited, networked and made visiting: www.eventbrite. have repeated exhibitors and traditional advertisement space a significant connection that co.uk/e/the-south-west-expo- sponsors such as Barclays Bank, after securing investment from resulted in a £50,000 contract. swindon-the-steam-musuem- Lexus, Lloyds Bank, Just Cash Dragon Jenny Campbell. tickets-54424630535 Flow PLC and Vodafone. Alec Jones-Hall, Director of John Davies – John Davies is The South West Expo said: “I This year the South West Expo an internationally renowned am delighted to be bringing is celebrating its 7th birthday entrepreneur and pioneer in this year’s expo back to and the event will return to the the UK’s finance industry. John Swindon and have no doubt Steam Museum in partnership has been involved in multiple that this year will again deliver with Business West on Thursday businesses and is now the another highly successful 4th July. founder of Just Cash Flow PLC, business show for the region. which is currently lending £1M Our passion is supporting This year’s expo will have a week to UK based SMEs. regional business growth and some unique features such as this show is designed around high-profile speakers, 3 new This event is the largest SME ensuring that both exhibitors industry specific workshops, business event within the region and delegates have platform new clinics and networking and attracts each year on to network, be inspired and sessions. average 130+ exhibitors and 1300+ visitors. Green for go! Swindon firm produce first biodegradable blister pack A UK specialist supplier companies do not only perform that come into contact with it care industries’ drive to reduce of packaging to the less well, but also come at to secrete acids that consume production of damaging plastic pharmaceutical, medical and substantial additional cost to the plastic, converting the waste. healthcare industries has their customers. PVC/DC into methane, carbon developed the world’s first dioxide, biomass and water “The healthcare, nutritional plastic blister packs that are Following years of trials, in a far shorter space of time and pharmaceutical industries biodegradable when exposed Wasdell Group’s R & D division than other plastics – within are very mindful of the fact to water or landfill. has produced blister packs that five to ten years. Wasdell’s that there is a need to reduce protect the drugs or nutrients biodegradable plastic additive the use of plastics that may A blister pack that maintains from contact with oxygen works within a three-tiered take many years to degrade, the integrity of the pills or food and moisture and prevent system, which allows it to be but their challenge has been supplements it protects, yet is contamination by odour and fine-tuned for pharmaceutical to find a material that will able to biodegrade rapidly microbial attack, while allowing and nutritional companies’ maintain the quality and shelf- after use, has been the Holy the packaging to degrade individual requirements while life of their pills,” says Martin Grail of the pharmaceutical after use. maximising the potential for Tedham. and nutritional industries for degradation. many years. Heightened Unlike products that are “We have been working awareness of the global threat manufactured using oxo- Trials have shown that on this development in of non-degradable plastics has degradable additives, the the treated film is able to collaboration with specialist made the search for a solution Wasdell blister packs are 100 biodegrade in landfill, aerobic suppliers from the US and Asia, even more pressing, as drug per cent shelf stable, yet are digestion systems and aerobic and are delighted that the manufacturers, governments 96 per cent biodegradable facilities. trials have demonstrated that and consumers become more when placed in an aerobic or the additive in the blister packs conscious of the long-term anaerobic environment, waste The blister packs also contain has rendered them almost detrimental effects that water or marine water. compostable laminated paper entirely biodegradable. waste plastic is having on the similar to that used for some environment. Wasdell has achieved this by perishable food products, \"This will mean that in the employing a unique additive making the entire product future patients and customers Wasdell Group has that can break down PVC/ biodegradable. will be confident knowing that announced the solution it has DC. Normally, plastics that their use of blister packs, which developed can be supplied at are impermeable to gas and Wasdell group Chairman are an essential packaging no extra cost to its customers. moisture degrade very slowly Martin Tedham says the format for a huge range of Those solutions that are when placed in active microbial development is one of pills and supplements globally, currently being offered by rival environments, but Wasdell’s the most significant in the is not having a detrimental additive enables microbes pharmaceutical and health effect on the planet.” 20 swindonlink.com n July 2019

ness Brief Swindon champs at the bit for some good ol' tech appeal By Jamie Hill [email protected] Nationwide's headquarters in Pipers Way was packed to the rafters last month as the business community gathered to hear the 'Big sponsorship of the year-long campaign. Idea' for the town from How Switch on to Swindon finally switched DigiTech is a strong and on to Swindon by embracing tech Switch on to Swindon. growing industry and Swindon At a glamorous event in the (that's Corporate Social boasts the UK’s 3rd most pretty swanky Nationwide Switch on to Swindon (SOTS) productive tech sector with over building Switch on to Swindon Responsibility to you and me). was formed a couple of years 2,800 companies in Swindon finally found its mojo - with a bit But the main bit was left to Kris ago with council backing, to and Wiltshire delivering digi- of tech help. Link editor Jamie entice businesses to the town as tech products and services and Talikowski - the SOTS mainstay well as changing perceptions over 25,000 companies reliant Hill gives his two cents worth... who runs The Core in Old Town. from without and within. on digi-tech to operate. So what's the 'Big Idea' Kris? As usual at these networking At an event last year in the Jenny Groves, Chair of events, there were biz- Well in essence the big idea Carriageworks the campaign Switch On To Swindon said: type people everywhere, is Tech Swindon - a project to announced that it would be “Both local businesses and new Champagne in hand, ready to celebrate the town as a centre putting together a 'Big Idea' investors will benefit from the smalltalk everybody with no of tech and innovation. With the to firmly put the town on the TechSwindon focus on attracting prisoners taken. Anyone who help of nifty drones Kris really map and it was unveiled at the and developing additional was anyone in the Swindon drove the point home. glamorous event at Nationwide. talent, alongside the timely business community was there. recent announcement of Institute I was impressed. This is And the 'Big Idea' is Tech of Technology funding for This time last year at the something that Swindon Swindon - a concept put Swindon College and partners.” last SOTS event, held at genuinely has to shout about. together by Swindon marketing the Carriageworks, the We are damn good at that firm Bravedog, that will be Also at the event, over 400 announcement was that they tech stuff. And with a good celebrating the town as a centre delegates heard a business in were looking for the 'Big Idea' network of like-minded firms for tech and innovation. the community round up from to put Swindon on the map. in the vicinity Swindon is also Swindon 105.5 and were somewhere that ideas can be The Tech Swindon campaign wowed by demonstrations Afterwards I had written a cultivated and grown. will support and promote the from the digi-tech community pretty scathing opinion piece growing digi-tech community including a drone display. about how the campaign had As a concept SOTS might and is a SOTS branded project. failed to Switch on to Swindon have lost some of its original The project will run a series Councillor Oliver Donachie, as it had forgotten to include community-minded good of meet-up events for start- the borough council’s cabinet one of its original raisons d'etre intentions but having fully ups, micros, SMES and larger member for the economy, - the actual community of the embraced business it looks like companies, which either provide said: “Advances in digi-tech town - and had instead turned this will make a real difference digi-tech products and services are essential to Swindon’s into a business back-slapping in getting new companies to or are reliant on it for business. industrial growth in all of its key exercise. The piece was met our town, which means more sectors, particularly advanced with flak from some but praise employment as well as more The year-long campaign will manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, from others. CSR - something that all of our culminate in a two-day summit business finance and communities can benefit from. in spring 2020 with high-profile professional services and So as I stood with my mini fish speakers from Swindon and logistics. and chips (delicious by the way) So we are completely behind around the world, in venues I was a bit apprehensive about this plan and the people of across the town, welcoming up \"I am therefore delighted we what I was about to see. Swindon should also get behind to 1,000 visitors a day. have launched the TechSwindon it. We might not know our apps campaign, which will keep One of the many speakers was from our elbows but Swindon is The aim of the campaign is Swindon at the forefront of this the wonderful Shirley Ludford, already a place with one foot to enhance Swindon’s digi- dynamic sector.” who runs Swindon 105.5. in the future and Tech Swindon tech cluster and showcase its Everything she said was perfect could be the best way of capability to attract inward For more information, visit outlining how businesses and capitalising on this and shouting investment and a pipeline of www.switchontoswindon.com the community work together it from the rooftops. additional skilled staff. through their CSR programmes I'm genuinely excited. On the night, Nationwide confirmed its support and swindonlink.com n July 2019 21

The Politics Page Important changes to your waste and recycling collection are coming The trial collection of separate England’. Households are food waste recycling is one therefore encouraged to use of a number of important this new service once it is changes to the Council’s waste available to them. Residents and recycling services that will will be able to check if they be rolled out over the coming are included in the trial by months. visiting the Council’s website. The changes are being Food waste bins will be introduced as part of the delivered to the trial areas Council’s new waste strategy, from mid-July. If a resident which outlines its commitment to receives a food bin they will protecting the environment and be responsible for keeping managing the borough’s waste it safe until the start of their Following the lead of many next decade. and recycling responsibly. collection in September. other Councils, a £7 charge for “This year we will be trialling Residents in trial areas will replacement recycling boxes Residents are encouraged to receive more information in will be introduced on the 1 a new food waste collection, support the Council’s efforts to August to explain how to make August. Last year the Council which we hope residents will reduce the amount of waste the most of the service. All trial spent £90,000 supplying new get involved with. households produce and areas will be announced in or replacement boxes and the increase the amount Swindon July. In addition to food waste ongoing charge is designed to “We will also be introducing recycles for the benefit of recycling, general recycling will cover the annual cost. compulsory recycling which will the borough and the wider also become compulsory for provide the opportunity for environment. all Swindon households from 1 New homes in the borough our waste wardens to support August 2019. Residents will be will continue to be provided those who are struggling From September 2019, expected to present all of their with two free of charge boxes to recycle and help people selected areas of the borough recyclable materials such as as standard. feel more confident in their will be trialling the separate, paper, cardboard, cans, glass recycling abilities. weekly collection of food bottles and jars into recycling Residents should clearly mark waste for recycling. This boxes instead of the black their boxes to aid identification “We have high aspirations for service will be trialled during wheelie bin/blue bag. by the collection crews. Box the future of waste reduction 2019/20. lids should be securely closed and recycling in Swindon From August, the Council’s before being left out for and we are determined to In recent engagement Waste Wardens will be collection. introduce new initiatives that feedback, more than 70 per working with residents who put will enable us to become as cent of residents asked for a recyclable materials in their Councillor Maureen Penny, sustainable as possible.” food waste recycling service. black wheelie bin/blue bag, Swindon Borough Council’s The government has also providing helpful advice and, Cabinet Member for Highways To find further information outlined the need for local where necessary, encouraging and the Environment, said: on the strategy please visit authorities to offer a separate participation with formal “Our waste strategy will help swindon.gov.uk/recycling. food waste collection in its enforcement. Swindon to achieve the best Please refer to your Essential national strategy ‘Our waste, possible environmental and guide to waste and recycling our resources: a strategy for economic outcomes over the in Swindon for information on additional services. We all need to do our bit to keep Swindon green Swindon Borough Council government targets we need to guide, outlining how general reach in the years ahead. from mid-July. recycling will also become Leader Cllr David Renard You may also have received compulsory for all households In short, we need to recycle from 1 August. A charge for (Con) more and produce less waste a letter from the council replacement recycling boxes and we all have a part to with a handy recycling will also be brought in to cover As you may have noticed from play. the annual cost of new or reading the article above, replacement boxes. some important changes will When we carried out our be made to your waste and waste strategy consultation We have had a fantastic recycling services over the last year a high percentage response from people to our coming months. of people said they would recycling campaign and I welcome separate food waste would like to thank everyone This is in direct response to recycling, so we will be trialling who is now taking the time to our new waste strategy, which such a weekly service from 2 separate their recycling. It is is committed to protecting our September in certain parts of making a big difference to our environment. In recent years the Borough. crews. we have reduced the amount of waste we send to landfill We will be announcing the Please keep up the good to about five per cent, but trial areas this month and food work and keep recycling for despite this our recycling rates waste bins will be delivered to Swindon. have fallen from previous those households taking part levels and we have some tough 22 swindonlink.com n July 2019

Swindon Life Celebrating town living Shoebox Theatre launches FUSE Festival this month FUSE Festival will be returning at the start of their careers.” to the Shoebox Theatre from said Josh Foyster, Producer of 5 to 7 July with its biggest FUSE Festival. \"The festival will programme yet! have something for everyone, and we hope people will also The contemporary come and watch something theatre festival will include that is out of their usual performances from Palomar comfort zone. Theatre, Chaotic Neutral, The Delight Collective, Slackjaw \"We hope that the audience Theatre Company, WhatNot will feel as much a part of the and Eloina. festival as the theatre makers!” “We have been overwhelmed The eclectic programme will by the number and quality of showcase new work ranging applications we received for from comedy, cabaret and this year’s festival and are drama, to immersive and excited to be able to support experimental theatre. and showcase the work of six theatre companies and artists For more information visit www.fusefestival.co.uk swindonlink.com n July 2019 23

Swindon Spotlight YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTHS AHEAD In the community Book now... l Local artist James Osborn is displaying his latest exhibition SWINDON'S MUSICAL STREET CRAWL RETURNS THIS MONTH! 'Nanook The Bipolar Bear' The Swindon Shuffle returns from 11 July to 14 July for its thirteenth year of supporting the town’s at Baristocats, Commercial live music scene! Road, until Friday 11 July. His artwork explores the The Shuffle is, without a doubt, a highlight in the town’s cultural calendar - a musical marathon, challenges of living with if you will - showcasing the best local talent Swindon, and the surrounding areas, has to offer. bipolar affective disorder. The exhibition is free to attend, Since its inception the line-up consistently illustrates Swindon’s ability to generate original music with artwork on sale. that disperses over a variety of genres – something that many outsiders will argue against. But it’s fb/baristocats/ having acts such as Gaz Brookfield, Flour Babies, Wyldest, The Oxymora and The Astral Ponies on the line-up which is case in point that Swindon’s music scene is alive and well indeed. l Darkroom Theatre Company brings its latest show 'Cock' All gigs are free to attend. For the full line-up visit www.swindonshuffle.org.uk to Artsite & The Post Modern, 2 to 3 August. Mike Bartlett’s ROCK OF AGES AT PRIME THEATRE WILKES ACADEMY punchy story takes a playful, THE WYVERN YOUTH SHOW SUMMER SHOW candid look at one man’s sexuality and the difficulties \"A feel-good and heart-felt The Prime Youth Theatre Welcoming you to an exciting that arise when you realise you show\" - The Ocelot. Showcase is a brilliant evening of musical theatre have a choice. Paying tribute to some of the opportunity for all members and dance, 2 to 4 July at the Tickets: £8 and £10. www. biggest anthems of the 80s to perform at the Arts Centre, Wyvern. This is an opportunity citizenticket.co.uk/event/cock- comes the musical Rock of 23 July. The showcase is a to see all students showcase by-mike-bartlett/ Ages at the Wyvern Theatre culmination of a year of work from some of the top from 8 July to 13 July. Starring youth theatre workshops and professionals in the business l On 28 June, GETRZ released Strictly's Kevin Clifton as enables members to share the and to show why we are truly their latest single ‘She Heard 'Stacee Jaxx'. skills they’ve developed. taking the industry by storm. I’m A Dreamer’ - taken from Tickets £5 Tickets £23.50 their upcoming EP ‘Think Of Tickets £21.50 to £42.50 The Future’. Ahead of the www.swindontheatres.com www.swindontheatres.com single's release the four-piece www.swindontheatres.com band from Swindon have been offering up tasters of Venues the single at shows across the Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: UK, including a warm up show www.swindontheatres.co.uk 01793 763939 in London and at their most prestigious festival appearance Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square SN1 5BP. Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. yet - the Isle of Wight Festival. Tel: 01793 420649 Email: [email protected] Find @GETRZBAND on social media for further updates and The Platform, Faringdon Road, Swindon SN1 5BJ Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. gigs. Tel: 01793 530328 Phoenix Theatre, New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. l 'An Evening with Sir Geoff Tel: 01793 732889 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Hurst' comes to the MECA 26 Tel: 01793 466556 July. Talking about his West The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Ham and England career and Tel: 01793 534238 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 his life in general, he has some 535713 great stories to tell. This is the Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. only man in Football's history Tel: 07340 758497 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 to have scored a hat trick in a 524481 - www.swindontheatres.co.uk World Cup Final. St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. www.redskypromotions.co.uk Tel: 01793 763907 Confirm date, time & price with venue 24 swindonlink.com n July 2019



Marios Trattoria: still the best Italian restaurant in Old Town? History will never know if the cellar walls, we ordered a since it opened, and is one I homemade panna cotta. gin which the Moonrakers Cinzano and lemonade, and always look forward to. My wife described it pulled from the pond was ever the Italian staple; a Peroni. stored in the tunnel below 7 Mario’s has always had a wonderfully as: “Cream with Wood Street, but some is now; The starter I went for was good house wine, and although cream and caramel, but who along with a selection of other the Pesce Diavolo, Squid and I chose fillet steak I went for worries?” tipples to go with an excellent prawns. My wife, the birthday the fruity white house wine. menu, as this is the home of girl, ordered just a main Mario’s is not the cheapest the long-established Mario’s course of veal with Parma The fillet steak was cooked restaurant in town, but the high Trattoria. Ham. For my main, I chose the to perfection, and the rich quality and personal service Medaglione Al Pepe Verde sauce completed the round make it a location for that Established in 1972, the fillet steak, accompanied by mix of flavours, to combine the special meal in the evening. restaurant has had four owners, a selection of vegetables; richness of the steak. and many staff have moved including the infamous Mario’s They also have a new on to create some of the best petits pois with ham. This dish Birthday girl’s veal and lunchtime menu which offers Italian food outlets in the area. has been a staple on the menu Parma ham displayed the pizza and pasta with same qualities, setting us up vegetarian and gluten-free I first went to Mario’s in the nicely for the sweet course of options for a modest £7. Much mid-seventies, when I worked more civilised than those heady for an American company days in the eighties, where in Swindon, and it was then lunchtime exuberances were I discovered the traditional common. welcome that accompanies your arrival in the cellar The gin from the Moonrakers restaurant; it’s the Italian story may have been the staple exuberance I have experienced commodity stored in those in the country itself. When I cellars in the long distant past, worked out of my Old Town but now, in that cellar, rounding office, we would enjoy a off the night with a coffee lunchtime in Mario’s, where laced with a Tia Maria, the Peroni and pasta were the evening was complete. order of the day. Oh, and there is a 3G signal Seated at a table in one of there so you can order your the inglenooks which form the taxi. www.mariosrestaurant.co.uk Review by Richard Wintle A poetry column by Maurice Spillane: leaving echoes behind Along Came this Italian Poet. as heritage for their kin and we are child, teddy bear and Tuesday 9 July, 7:30pm The thing is, she didn’t know offspring. You can see that pen Altea’s line “writing is leaving www. how gifted a poet she was until echoes behind” particularly sliding swiftly mauricespillane.com she came to Swindon! resonated for me. from page into dream. Altea Narici is from Italy My catch up Read it again, it has several and here to improve her with Silence. levels. There must be something English. She plays the cello I get the soul in Swindon water that professionally and has off the wood effervesces the creative brain. composed pieces for it so, in while it still vibrates, terms of creativity, she is well lead it back We’re rich with poetry in on her way. fingertips to toes Swindon and now we’ve an hoping it will be at ease, Italian poet among us. We had a lovely evening and stay. recently discussing all the usual In the meantime, July is a topics until poetry dominated Writing is leaving busy month for writers and when I introduced her to echoes behind, listeners: Seamus Heaney. and step out of the cave, cry in the open air • Reading Group We read a few of his well- -I’m still alive!- – Monday 8 July, 7-9pm known poems, out-loud of Richard Jefferies Museum course, and we were away. And hugging such thought on my chest, muffling • Competition - Several days later I received the drum under the shallow http://www.batteredmoons. a poem from Altea called “The skin, com Closes 30th June Reason I Write.” • Open Mic – It’s very much from the heart Monday 29 July, 7:30pm of a musician. I often say Regent Hotel, Victoria Road to budding poets that the written word will outlast them, • Beehive Pub – 26 swindonlink.com n July 2019

Peugeot Rifter MPV: spacious family transport Motorists seem to have lost to the brand, a feature that interest in Multi-Purpose For this writer though, it’s the it’s a Peugeot. has proved popular with Vehicles (MPV) lately as Peugeot i-cockpit that swings it This is possibly the ideal drivers. The dashboard is plain buyers flock to the altar of with the driver-focussed set-up. but very well laid out with a the ubiquitous crossover/SUV The interior is smart and has family car if you can get past big central 8” touchscreen. models. all the mod cons we expect the inclination to dismiss MPV’s these days. as unexciting. This car is all A real plus point is the ride; It’s shame, because the latest about convenience; there’s it is really comfortable and of the few remaining have real About The Peugeot Rifter sliding rear doors for ease of cruising at speed is surprisingly merit and none more so than In fact, given its priorities, access, roof bars, back seats quiet. Sure, the Rifter wallows the new Peugeot Rifter. that fold easily and variously a bit when cornering but the Rifter’s not a bad looking and around the back there’s a catching the apex is not its No, it’s not sleek or especially motor. The surfaces are nicely vast, cavern-like boot with a forte. stylish and it has van-like sculpted and contoured, full size rear tailgate. With a proportions, but for families disguising the van origins and choice of five or seven seats, Not quick by any means, the planning long holiday journeys the front end gets the ‘family family-sized versatility is Stop/Start BlueHDi 127bhp to new and exciting locations, face’ that all brands seem to assured. 1.5L turbo-diesel can still crack the Peugeot Rifter is a car be doing these days. In this on when needed with the sprint that would prove to be both way the casual onlooker knows The Peugeot Rifter gets the to 62mph dealt with in just functional, practical and small steering wheel common over ten seconds. Other diesels reliable. are available. There are petrol engines on offer as well The name is a vast but, in this case, the diesel is improvement on its the better choice with 60mpg predecessor, the ‘Partner assured for the abstemious Tepee’ (what were they driver. thinking?) and if the Peugeot badge doesn’t float your boat The Peugeot Rifter is highly then the Citroen Berlingo or recommended especially the Vauxhall Combo Life are when an all-purpose car fits more or less the same thing, the bill. Practically perfect although the Rifter is a tad practicality. more expensive. Geoff Maxted MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick SN25 1QQ - Sharon P 07841 119082 MONDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tadpole Farm School, Greene Street, Tadpole Garden Village, Swindon SN25 2Q - Lisa L 07414 540866 TUESDAYS 6.30pm Abbey Meads Community School, Main Sports Hall, Hugo Drive, Abbey Meads SN25 4GY - Heather Z 07816 860840 WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Francis School, Aiken Way, Taw Hill SN25 1UH - Heather Z 07816 860840 WEDNESDAYS 7.30pm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road, Freshbrook SN5 8LY - Louise 07784 098022 THURSDAYS 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm St Johns Church, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick SN25 1QQ - Sharon 07841 119082 THURSDAYS 7.30pm Redhouse Community Centre, Frankel Avenue SN25 2NJ - Carrieanne 07864 839820 FRIDAYS 9.30am & 11.30am Redhouse Community Centre, Frankel Avenue SN25 2NJ - Heather Z 07816 860840 SATURDAYS 8am, 10am & 12 noon Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road, Freshbrook SN5 8LY - Louise 07784 098022 swindonlink.com n July 2019 27

Swindon Lives IN TALKS WITH: Paul Lappin and Jon Buckett By Claire Dukes eight years - to living in the Left to right: Jon Buckett, Claire Dukes and Paul Lappin at The Tuppenny South of France as an artist for Photograph by Jennifer Berry [email protected] the last three years. surprise the singer-songwriter Paul was sauntering around I have passed up so many Until now Paul had never is now ready to release his Saint-Chinian not knowing opportunities and whether stepped foot inside a recording first single. He tells me, “It that a song he wrote more that’s because I didn’t have the studio, and since February he was one of the first songs I than a decade ago would be confidence, or thought I hadn’t and Jon have been in the studio ever wrote - I’m so excited for something remarkable to the got what it takes, it always working with the likes of Simple people to hear it! As it’s gone ears of a music producer. Jon led me to the same conclusion Minds’ Rob Brian, getting on, I’ve become more excited says, “It feels like it’s part of that ‘those things don’t happen ready to officially release because you hear it being built something bigger. I’m really to me’ – and it’s a subject I Life Was Good in July. Paul professionally and suddenly excited about it – I think it’s discussed at length with Paul tells me, “I never owned an this little idea that I had in a great song. You can spend Lappin and Jon Buckett. instrument until five years ago. my living room is sounding years hunting for the right song, I didn’t have a tambourine, so amazing. I’ve always wanted and it turns out it was the first As a music producer, and the I was using a salt shaker, and I this song to sound big, – I one.” owner of Earthworm Recording was playing drums on pillows. It like that big sound that many Studio, Jon Buckett has worked sounds ridiculous now [laughs]! bands are able to get – and The music industry, or any with musicians of all ages, I sent the demo off and I didn’t I could never do it at home so industry for that matter, can backgrounds and abilities – really think anything of it. It’s I couldn’t quite get the idea I often feel so inaccessible, - you many of which are, or have a confidence thing, isn’t it? You had in my head out. don’t have the right connections, been, unsigned. He says it’s don’t want to push your songs the right technology or the “bizarre” having witnessed the on people. “It’s got quite a catchy chorus, confidence - and it took 48 amount of talent walk into his I think [laughs]! It’s a nice years for Paul to get his break. studio not knowing what they’re “The one thing I’ve missed uplifting and positive song - a Unfortunately, this is the reason capable of - or getting the is collaborating, – it’s nice to summery song that people can some people will stop pursuing backing they need. It was with have other opinions – and since sing-along to. I think it’s an their aspirations - some people this in mind that last year Jon working with Jon at Earthworm instantly accessible pop song, think ‘those things don’t happen launched a free competition, that’s been on tap. We’ve had so I hope that people latch to me’. “You don’t have to be a For the Song, aimed at giving amazing musicians come in and onto that and get it on their virtuoso to do something cool,” unsigned artists and bands say, ‘Why don’t you try this?’ playlist – or buy a CD!” Jon says \"if you feel like you the opportunity to record I’ve absolutely loved that. want to do something, and you and release an original song Jon adds, “Musically, it’s not feel like you’ve got something they’ve written. It was in “It’s been a really nice something that's doing well to say just do it!” January, whilst on his way to an working relationship – Jon at the moment. There are open mic night in Bristol, that gets where I’m coming from, comparable things around that Since hitting Earthworm Paul Lappin got the call to say he understands the tone and are there to make people feel Recording Studio Paul has that his song Life Was Good feel of the song and he’s good, but Paul’s music doesn’t moved back to his hometown, won the judges over. able to take it in a direction ask anything of you - his music Swindon, and is now working sympathetic to that. It still feels is very generous in that way.” on two albums. Next month, “My mum saw the ad, cut like very much my song, but thanks to For the Song, Paul will it out and posted it to me in Jon’s given it the push that it It’s both extraordinary and be releasing his debut single France. She said, ‘What have needed. Also, he’s got access uplifting listening to Paul and Life Was Good. you got to lose?’ My whole life to some absolutely fantastic Jon - a few months ago they www.earstudio.co.uk went upside down,” says Paul. musicians – all these people, were complete strangers, and And, as we’re sat chatting over who are way beyond anything a pint, it soon became clear that I could do, are suddenly why. able to give the song some really good edge. The whole Paul, 48, bought his first thing has been brilliant, and instrument – an electric guitar it’s just gone up and up ever – just five years ago. Although since.” having been a self-taught musician since his early years Paul always had it in his mind Paul’s life went off in a series that he would one day record of other directions from Bristol, and release his music but never - as a graphic designer - then had the technology or support Canada, - hitting the slopes system around him to make as a snowboard instructor for it happen. Much to his own 28 swindonlink.com n July 2019

Prepare yourselves for a zombie outbreak at the Brunel! Swindon’s Brunel Shopping the country features house service corridors, Centre will be transformed escape room style clues, car parks and the main into a Zombie disaster immersive moments of precinct itself, trying to zone in November. deep suspense and save the world and end theatrical interactions. the apocalypse! The Zombie Nightmare immersive experience Zombie Nightmare is an T​ his is a large scale scare gives those taking part the award winning, premium attraction experience. chance to experience a immersive 60 minute terrifying post apocalypse experience set in a real The Zombie Experience vision in which teams shopping centre that has comes to Swindon on 8th will be able to roam the been placed on lockdown. and 9th of November. shopping centre as they Those taking part will Tickets cost £45 plus battle for survival. be able to navigate all booking fee. available areas of the The attraction, which shopping centre including To book tickets or for will also be touring other loading bays, back of more information log on to shopping centres around www.wickedexperiences. co.uk Swindon bands join Mfor Festival line-up thanks to local radio station By Claire Dukes summer on Stage 2. [email protected] Station Manager for Swindon Last month Mfor Festival 105.5, Shirley Ludford, said: introduced a second stage at \"We are very pleased to play this year's event to be hosted a part in the day and further by Swindon 105.5. demonstrate our proactive promotion of local talent. Taking place at Lydiard Park, 27 July, the community radio \"The Swindon 105.5 Stage station have confirmed that The fits very well with our ethos Oxymora, Phoebe Maddison, of promoting live and local Billy and Louie, Julie Scott’s talent.\" Academy, Myriam Adams, Kerenza Clements, Abstraction The newly announced artists Engine, Jordan Pearce, Tayler will be joining Years & Years, McNally and Ryan Webb Toploader, Becky Hill and will be joining the line-up this Jahmene Douglas for the day festival's debut. For further information visit www.mforfestival.co.uk swindonlink.com n July 2019 29

Braille It's time to get back in the saddle - here's how! Transcription By Becky Cox: Swindon Cycle Campaign a bit more support getting in Services Are you tempted to dust off the saddle. Bikes and helmets I am a local braille producer. your bike this summer and try are avaliable and the friendly, cycling? If you require any supportive instructors will ensure documents, It’s a fantastic, fun way to get you’re looked after. There’s active and explore your local also a range of adapted bikes e.g. correspondence, area and there are plenty of available, meaning there’s educational materials, etc opportunities this summer! please contact me for a other options, including tricycles, Swindon Borough Council quote. recumbents, tandems and even is supporting the ‘Let’s Ride’ [email protected] bikes which fit wheelchairs. initiative, a partnership between There are also free confidence 01793 976196 HSBC and British Cycling to get courses being held throughout more people on bikes. www.swindonbraille.co.uk the summer in both Shrivenham Let’s Ride is focused on giving and Wroughton. everyone the opportunity to All set now? Check out the get in the saddle, no matter Let’s Ride website for a range your age, ability or fitness level. of free led rides organised These rides are not speed, throughout the summer, from 3 rather a social way to explore miles to 30. Shorter rides tend and get a bit of exercise. You to be flatter and mainly on don’t need an expensive bike traffic-free cycle paths whilst to get involved (I personally the longer ones start to venture think my 30-year-old Raleigh onto the quiet country lanes. Caprice, a hand-me-down from There are rides available most my mother in law is the best!). weekends as well as during the If you haven’t cycled for a week so head to the website while or are looking to learn and sign up to one now! As a pop along to the County volunteer ride leader, I’ll be Ground Athletics track on a leading some of the rides, Friday morning between 10 maybe I’ll see you on one soon? and 12. There’s a free drop in Let’s Ride website: www. session for anyone who needs letsride.co.uk

HIGHWORTH WARNEFORD SCHOOL Shrivenham Road, Highworth, SN6 7BZ (01793) 762426 An Academy Putting Excellence First 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. OPEN EVENING Thursday 3rd October 2019 This is a chance to view the school’s facilities and listen to a presentation by our Headteacher. There will also be plenty of opportunities to talk to staff, students and governors. Visitors can expect to see sample lessons, exhibitions, activities and performances. Programme: 5.30pm - Start of Tours 5.40pm and repeated at 7pm - Presentation by Mr Steele in the Main Hall 7.30pm Finish OPEN MORNINGS Monday 7th October to Wednesday 9th October 2019 Prospective students and their parents are also warmly invited to attend our popular Open Mornings so that you can see for yourself the high quality of provision and outstanding behaviour during a normal school day. Student guides will be on hand to show you around the school and will be happy to answer any questions. Daytime tours start at 9.10am and 10.10am and last around 1 hour. Senior staff will also be available. To book your visit please contact our Data Manager, Mrs Lewis, on (01793) 767083 or email: [email protected] www.warnefordschool.org [email protected] £3,445* wwhheennyyoouuppuurrcchhaaseseaaFuFnuenrearlaPllPanlawn iwthith HHiilllliieerrFFuunneerraal lSSeervrviciec.eV. Valaidlidunutnilt3il13/112-5/1-91.7. PPlleeaasseeqquuooteteLLININKK22totoclcaliamimyoyuorudridscioscuonut.nt.

Stranger than fiction: Swindon is theGARDENING AND LANDSCAPING SERVICES talk of the town amongst storytellers By Claire Dukes amongst the literary world. issues, has inspired a series narratives, each author can [email protected] Everything from the town's of local authors to put pen to concur that \"there's something paper to celebrate Swindon's for everyone\" to be intrigued Whether it's fact or fiction, rich history to photographic past, present and future. by in these four explorative Swindon is a hot topic archives, and influential stories. characters to current social Despite the book's individual Swindon in 50 Buildings The Woman in the Lake by Hidden Stories by Root Swindon Photographers by Angela Atkinson Nicola Cornick Experience & Postcard Publishers by Darryl Moody & Paul A. From the author of Secret Since moving from Bradford to Hidden Stories is not about Williams Swindon comes a second Swindon in the 1990s, Nicola Swindon itself, but it aims to installment of discovering Cornick has never looked back support the people living here. Photographers snapping the town's gems, but this time – aside from when she’s been Swindon have been captured in focusing on its buildings. unearthing \"fascinating stories This \"playfully illustrated a new encyclopaedia - some of and colourful characters\" from graphic novel\" from arts charity which date back as early as the From the mundane to the Swindon's pastime. It was with Root Experience is telling the 1850s. grand, and from council this in mind that Nicola was stories of people living with estates to cafes, local blogger inspired to write The Woman in conditions that you can't see The book has been brought Angela Atkinson hopes to offer the Lake. from the outside - conditions to life by Swindon Borough a different perspective on such as anxiety, autism, Council’s Local Studies Librarian, Swindon's heritage and current “My books tend to focus on diabetes and chronic fatigue Darryl Moody, and local culture. She says, \"What I’ve those real-life characters in syndrome. This book wants to historian Paul A. Williams. The taken from it is to try and tell history, particularly women, who give a voice to those people. book offers an insight into the aspects of Swindon’s story in don’t often feature in the history people behind the lens of some a selection of its buildings. books but still have a story to Dr Helen Johnson, senior inconic imagery of the town. It’s been difficult to choose. tell,” says Nicola. “In the case lecturer in social science at You can expect some obvious of Swindon I wanted to write Brighton University, wrote the Darryl said: “The ability to suspects, but hopefully some about Lady Diana St John who book’s foreword. She said: identify and accurately date surprises. I’ve tried to represent was a professional artist at a \"I have seen first-hand, the photographs is crucial in local as many areas of Swindon as I time when it was very unusual power of the arts to connect history and genealogical reasonably can.\" for aristocratic women to work. with people, to transform the research. She lived at Lydiard Park and ways in which those who live Due for release in August drew a lot of inspiration for with a wide range of invisible \"As our research progressed Angela hopes the book will be her work from Swindon and conditions understand their it was fascinating to see insighful for those who don't her story inspired the character experiences, helping them to the explosion of popularity think of the town as a place of of Isabella. I’m hoping to cope when they are struggling in photography during the creativity and culture. She adds, surprise people with a different and empowering them to speak Victorian period – and the \"A lot of people from outside of perspective on Swindon’s out. These are voices that need unusual set of characters who Swindon moving into the town past and how it influences our to be heard; stories that come went into the photography won’t be aware of the heritage present and future. I hope from a few, but speak to so business. and historical value within a lot readers both from Swindon very many different people’s of the town’s buildings. I know and elsewhere will enjoy the lives.\" \"As we dug further, many people who don’t think that way that the book draws on unusual stories came to light. Swindon has a cultural offering Swindon history and celebrates Root Experience has published Who would have guessed that at all - which we do!\" the town and its past, as well as Hidden Stories to \"to hear and Victorian photographers once finding the story gripping and understand those voices\" and had to dive out of the way of Book launch event: The entertaining!” donate to local community charging cattle before they Baker's Cafe on Sat 3 August, projects in Swindon and across crashed into the windows of 12pm. the South West. McIlroy’s department store!” 32 swindonlink.com n July 2019

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QUICK CROSSWORD NONAGRAM MAGIC SQUARE 12345 6 7 How many words of four letters or more can you make from SENIOR PERSON this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and PILL 89 each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found. Using all 16 letters of the phrase above, Target scores: S AT form four words 21 Good; 25 Very Good; 29 Excellent. each of four letters which, when placed 10 11 12 13 13 14 15 16 R U DAny word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary is correctly in the grid, will form a magic 17 17 eligible with the following exceptions: proper square in which the nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; words can be read 18 19 third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; both horizontally and vertically. E R Econtractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible). 20 21 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 SUDOKU There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each SOLUTIONS column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 28 29 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, you should not have to guess. 456817329 2 3 1 4 5 9 8 6 7 pens. MAGIC SQUARE 30 31 687 59 slip; lore; iron; 2 8 9 3 6 5 4 1 7 4 5 1 6 2 3 7 8 9 true; trued; truer; ACROSS DOWN 46 urate; urea; 3 1 6 4 7 2 5 9 8 1. Essential (5) 1. Speech sound (5) ureter; used; user. 5 4 7 8 9 1 3 2 6 4. Highest in 2. Gas unit (5) authority (7) 3. Subsequently (5) 1 7 2 9 8 5 4 3 6 TREASURED; 8. Grapple (7) 4. Snow vehicle (6) 5 4 9 6 3 1 2 7 8 sutra; treasure; 9. Waterlily (5) 5. Arctic (5) 985436 3 6 8 7 4 2 5 9 1 surd; sure; 10. Madagascan 6. Glorify (5) suet; sura; primate (5) 7. Relieved (5) Evade; 12 Utter; 14 sued; suede; suer; 13. Mangled, 11. Dodge (5) 9 2746 3 sauté; sautéd; stud; Extol; 7 Eased; 11 distorted (7) 12. Say (5) Sledge; 5 Polar; 6 17. Gender (3) 14. Wheel shaft (4) ruse; rust; rusted; Therm; 3 Later; 4 18. Barely worth 15. Policeman (inf.) (5) rudest; rued; rusa; considering (6) 16. Perform (5) 31 reused; rude; ruder; Down – 1 Vowel; 2 19. North African (6) 17. Coinciding in time (abbrev.) (4) 20. Scots form of no (3) 21. Finally (2,4) 7 56 9 NONAGRAM 18 Paltry; 19 Libyan; 22. Draw back (7) 22. Helicopter blade (5) austere; austerer; 20 Nae; 22 Retract; 25. Japanese city (5) 23. Offered for rent (2,3) 87 2 4 druse; duet; durra; 25 Kyoto; 28 Tulip; 29 28. Spring flower (5) 24. Plenty (5) durst; dust; duster; Averted; 30 Retreat; 29. Turned aside (7) 25. Sound of a bell (5) erasure; étude; reuse; 31 Lucky. 30. Withdrawal (7) 26. Of the eye (5) 31. Fortunate (5) 27. Strangely (5) 13 Garbled; 17 Sex; Oddly. 9 Lotus; 10 Lemur; Knell; 26 Optic; 27 21 98 Supreme; 8 Wrestle; To let; 24 Ample; 25 At last; 22 Rotor; 23 Across – 1 Vital; 4 CROSSWORD 45 8 2 Enact; 17 Sync; 21 QUICK Axle; 15 Bobby; 16 Our family service Valuation Day caring for you opportunity John Pearce (left), Belinda, Tracy and David. with Thomas Forrester Here for you when needed most TV expert on Flog It! • Recommended in The Good Funeral Guide The Antiques Road Trip • Professionally qualified • Home visits available & Bargain Hunt Guaranteed 100% of our costs and third party costs of burial * or cremation at today’s prices. Bring along your Antiques & Jewellery for a FREE valuation Fully Guaranteed Prepaid Plans from £3,495 with Thomas, OR members of his team from Special Auction Services (monthly instalments available) Monday 8th July 10am to 3.30pm To receive a £75 discount on these fees, please contact us quoting reference ‘Link1’ Jury’s Inn, Fleming Way, Swindon SN1 2NG Town Office: Chapel of Rest: Valuations are by appointment only 1 Groundwell Road, 92 Ermin Street, Stratton To arrange a time, please call 01635 580595 Swindon SN1 2LT St Margaret, SN3 4NN or contact us via the website 01793 422422 01793 832072 www.specialauctionservices.com www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk [email protected] Special Auction Services * for the option of burial the guarantee excludes purchase of plots. Valid until 31st July 2019 38 swindonlink.com n July 2019

Earthworm Recording Studio's Jon Buckett - photograph by Jennifer Berry