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MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM Welcome to our June edition of Anything Swindon magazine. This month’s magazine is bigger, brighter and packed full of local news including our regular updates from Drove Vets, Empire Cinemas and our travelling friend Gavin Ellis, who has now planted his routes in Canada.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
We have news regarding upcoming local events including the Summer Youth Project, The Wiltshire and Swindon Pride and updates from local performing arts schools as they prepare for their annual shows.
04
LITTLE BIG FESTIVAL
07
THE YEAR “OFF” OF THE GAV
We have an interview with 2015 Britain’s Got Talent finalist Jamie Raven, who is bringing his magic to Swindon.
09
DROVE VETS FEATURE
10
EMPIRE MOVIE NEWS
12
SNDOGS UPDATE
14
GAY PRIDE 2016
16
SWINDON DANCE
17
ESTELLE SCHOOL OF DANCE
18
WYVERN THEATRE UPDATE
If you have your own business you could advertise in our next publication from as little as £50.00 per month; reaching 25’000 properties across East, Central and South Swindon.
20
M.A.D FEATURE
21
JAMIE RAVEN INTERVIEW
Happy reading! Graham and Ian
24
COUNCILLOR & MP UPDATES
28
SANDS FEATURE
32
CHARLIE NESBITT UPDATE
We have the first instalment from local teenage motorcyclist Charlie Nesbitt, who recently extended his lead in the Hel Performance British Motostar Championship with victory in race two at Brands Hatch. Anything Swindon Magazine is also readable online at www.anythingswindon.com, where you can also read up to date news and local information with our up to date news section now updated regularly both online and on social media. Like our facebook page to get regular news updates direct to your mobile phone.
Follow us on Social Media: facebook.com/anythingSwindon @anythingswindon
Design editor: Ian E: ian@screamingmedia.co.uk Editor: Graham E: graham@screamingmedia.co.uk Advertising: Telephone 01793 977117
26 Designed & Printed: Screaming Media Ltd www.screamingmedia.co.uk Readership: 75,000 Circulation: 25,000 Online View 15,000 per month,
The Anything Swindon magazine is now working with The woodland Trust, Supporting the campaign to protect precious ancient woods by supporting the ones that are damaged and fight for those under threat. Established in 1972, the Woodland Trust is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity. Over the last 40 years or so, we have acquired more than 1,000 woodland sites covering over 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres). The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885).
Little Big Festival NSBRC Main Feature
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Little Big Festival
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The year “off” of the Gav
2. I know people in Toronto.
June Update! So, I’ve settled in Toronto. At least for the next 6 months. It’s a great city. Stephen Fry suggests that its “New York run by the Swiss” and I agree in principle with this. I’ve chosen Toronto for a number of reasons and as I’ve got 300 words to fill, I’ll explain them all.
I have friends around the world and when I was deciding where to live, I totalled up the amount of people that I know in one place. Outside of family it was 2 or 3 adults in anyone place, in Toronto it was 8. I’d be starting again from scratch where ever I go, why not settle amongst the most people? 3. I have had enough of the U.K. I love the UK and I’ve been there, mostly, since I was born. That’s a long time. I’m 38 this year and had the opportunity to move away and I’ve taken it. I don’t miss it at all. I miss not being near family and friends but you have to do what’s right for ‘you’ right? Toronto is incredibly focused towards the Arts and the opportunities are vast. I now have to get my head down and make myself part of the scene. It seems my travelling has stopped for now but my adventures are just beginning
1. City Life, I wanted to be in a city, I thought that city would be New York but as previously explained, it just moves too fast for me (at the moment) I will live there one day but not yet. I am far too laid back to hustle and bustle in the Big Apple. The people were great and it was difficult decision to leave but definitely the right one at this time. ANYTHING SWINDON
To keep an eye on my travels visit the following: Instagram: gavellisiow Twitter @GavEllis_IOW blog: gavellis2016.blogspot.com
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Start your journey Wednesday’s 5.30pm Central Community Centre Emlyn Square Swindon Town Centre
Contact Lou for more details: 07784 098022 visit the website to read Sara’ s story
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Drove Vets Feature Your vet will be in the best position to look for the tell- tale signs of infection. Sadly there is no single test to diagnose atopy. It is a diagnosis reached by combining careful history- taking with appropriate rule-outs, tests and treatments. IS ATOPIC DERMATITIS CURABLE?
ATOPIC DERMATITIS WHAT IS IT? Atopic dermatitis, or Atopy, is an allergic skin condition commonly seen in animals and people. At least 1 in 10 dogs in the UK are atopic and cats suffer from this condition too. Allergens are environmental and are commonly indoor (household) such as dust mites and storage mites. Outdoor allergens include pollens from grasses, trees or weeds. WHAT SIGNS MIGHT MY PET SHOW?
In a word, No. Allergies tend to be for life, although you may notice a waxing and waning of signs in your pet, over the seasons or years. The good news is that this frustrating condition can now be effectively managed and vets have a wide range of therapies available , including tablets, lotions, shampoos, sprays and other oral supplements which can effectively prevent or treat flare-ups in this disease. Despite the incurable nature of atopy, I can assure you that observant owners who work closely with their veterinary surgeon can really make a difference when it comes to maintaining a healthy, comfortable and itch-free pet.
For more information please see our website www.drovevets.co.uk Or our Facebook page for more details. (01793) 522483
Skin and ear problems are commonly seen in affected pets. Signs may be seasonal initially, eg Spring but tend to be recurrent or long-lasting (chronic). Age of onset in dogs is anything from 6months to 3 years of age though occasionally pets may be even younger when they show initial signs. Certain breeds are more commonly affected such as Labradors, Retrievers, terriers (especially Westies) and Boxers, so hereditary factors are important. Not all puppies or kittens from affected parents will show disease, as environmental and other factors an act as triggers for the condition. HOW MIGHT ATOPY AFFECT MY PET? The main signs you may notice in an affected pet are related to itching. Pets may lick, chew or scratch at affected areas and initially you may think your pet is just trying to clean the skin. However, with excessive trauma to these areas, you may notice staining of the hair from saliva (particularly in pale-coated individuals), loss of fur (alopecia) and possibly reddening of the skin (inflammation) which can lead to infections. Eventually the skin may thicken and go dark (pigmentation) though this generally takes months to occur. Ear problems are commonly associated with atopic dermatitis. Head shaking, ear flapping, scratching at the ear/s, holding the head to one side, and discomfort may all be due to atopy. The second important ‘rule-out’ is skin infection. Many pets with itchy or inflamed skin and ears have secondary infections (bacteria or yeast) and again, failure to recognise and treat these can lead to misdiagnosis or unnecessary tests and treatments. ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Empire Movie News!
Win four tickets to a Film of your choice! To win the tickets, Please tell us who starred in the first Independence Day?
A: Will Smith B: Will Young or C: Will.I.am Please email win@anythingswindon.co.uk with your answer and your postcode by the 28th of the month
“Well done to Debbie Stone who won the May competition! We will be in touch on how to get your prize� PAGE 10
SNDogs June update
Up and Coming SNDog Events:
Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)
SNDogs ARE CELEBRATING!!! MEGAN has found a home after 4 years of waiting! We featured Megan in the very first SNDog update back in October 2015 – Thank you to everyone who shared her story. And …. more good news ……. we heard at the end of April that SNDogs had been chosen as one of the John Lewis ‘Community Matters’ Charity for May to June. If you visit John Lewis please do drop a ‘Green Token’ in the SNDogs collection box – the more tokens the more money we raise!
SUNDAY 5TH JUNE FAMILY FUN DAY AT SWINDON RUGBY CLUB SUNDAY 12TH JUNE PETSHED, SWINDON SATURDAY 18TH JUNE WANBOROUGH HORSE AND DOG SHOW SUNDAY 19TH JUNE CRICKLADE FESTIVAL SATURDAY 25TH JUNE DOG SHOW AT DRAGON BOAT EVENT COATE WATER, SWINDON SATURDAY 25TH JUNE HINTON PARVA/BISHOPSTONE VILLAGE FETE SUNDAY 26TH JUNE LIVE @ THE PARK, FARINGDON
PLEASE VISIT WWW.SNDOGS.UK FOR THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS
DOG OF THE MONTH
A couple of the SNDogs team went to visit – SIRVA, a global relocation company, who are based in Kembrey Park Swindon. SIRVA has chosen us as one of their two charities for this year - we took SNDogs Lucy and Angus along with us to meet the staff.
Come and join our Events Team! Now that the days are longer (and warmer) we will be out and about at many events in Swindon and the local area - we always need people who can help out at our various fund-raising events, such as street collections, supermarket bag packing, stalls and dog shows at Events - some of these often need a full days’ commitment or a few hours.
CAN YOU GIVE EMMA A HOME? EMMA is very keen to please and knows basic commands like sit, wait, down etc. She would easily learn more with more training. She is excellent on and off the lead and always comes back quickly when called. She has been living with cats though will chase if given a chance (only for fun though!). She jumps straight into her crate in the car and settles down for the ride. She loves walks and enjoys meeting other dogs and humans! She is really affectionate and loves nothing more than a good cuddle - she is a beautiful dog and will make a brilliant companion.
If you can give Emma a home please email sndrescue@gmail.com
SNDogs were at the Highworth May Day Festival at the end of April – pictured are Sarah (who runs our on-line Auctions) and Moira (who heads up the SNDogs Events Team) – as you can see they like to dress up – looking good ladies! Please email sndogrescue@gmail.com or visit sndogs.uk for more info PAGE 12
SNDogs relies entirely on donations - there are many ways you can help SNDogs. Donate via Paypal – swindonsneedydogs@ gmail.com or bank transfer to (Co-op) SNDogs Account No. 65622481 sort code 089299. We also have an Amazon Wish List – search for Saving Needy Dogs. Visit our website for more info... www.sndogs.uk
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WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Gay Pride 2016
Save the date: 20th August 2016 Town Gardens, Swindon
The 9th Swindon and Wiltshire Pride will be taking place on Saturday 20th August 2016 and this year the theme is “Love for All”. Swindon and Wilts Pride’s has, throughout its history, aimed to promote equality and diversity within the whole community and this year’s theme of Love For All is a strong endorsement and message in support of these aims. Love, that many splendored thing, covers a variety of different feelings, states, and attitudes that range from interpersonal affection to the virtue representing human kindness and compassion. In all its states, the right of a person to give and receive love is perhaps the most fundamental human right.
Since our last Pride many countries across the world have seen their governments take major leaps forward in terms of LGBT equality – from same-sex marriages in places such as Ireland, Cyprus and Columbia; through to Ecuador making the right to change your gender legal and debates in Westminster over the further recognition of transgender people. Whilst it may sometimes feel like the battle for “Love For All” has been won, but we have to remember that in many countries it has barely begun, as LGBT people face persecution and in some cases, death.
Closer to home the fight for same sex marriages still continues in Northern Ireland and statistics suggest that in the UK 62% of transgender people have experienced transphobic harassment from strangers in public places, and 81% have had to avoid public situations out of fear. Swindon and Wilts Pride 2016 is therefore sending out an invitation to our community at large to come and join us in a celebration of the right for “Love For All” and all the progress that has been made in making this a reality for many people. Also to join together in a show of solidarity and support for those that don’t yet enjoy their entitlement to love and be loved. Set in the glorious Old Town Gardens in Swindon; Swindon and Wiltshire Pride will kick off with the love themed parade that starts off from the park. This will make its way through Old Town, and if you are interested in joining the parade please visit the Pride website for registration details www.swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk.
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Gay Pride 2016
The afternoon and evening will then be filled with fun for all the family, with live music in the Bowl and Town Gardens Band Stand, shopping zone , family zone, representation from many of our local and national organisations, such as Swindon College; Women’s Aid; British Red Cross; New College, Swindon Lions; Gay West; Terence Higgins Trust; Great Western Hospital – Sexual Health; Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust; Swindon and District Samaritans; Prospect Hospice; British Heart Foundation; Swindon & Marlborough Amnesty International; Great Western Hospital Foundation Trust and Wiltshire Police and Fire and Rescue services, to name just a few.
Up and coming events include:•
•
•
A Ride for Pride on 3rd July (with practice rides on 5th June) Camp Bingo at the Mailcoach (check out the website for dates) The Pride Beach Party on 16th July, where this year’s headliner at Swindon and Wilts Pride will be announced,
We rely heavily on volunteers to help run the event. Volunteering at pride is a fun and rewarding experience where you get to meet and work alongside lots of new people and really feel part of the event. There are lots of volunteering opportunities, including helping set up and clear away on the day and
before and after the event, walking vehicles on or off site, putting up fences, moving stock, providing information to people about the event, walking along with the parade, clearing litter, clearing stalls holders, running our merchandising store or children’s zone or helping the performers backstage. For more details visit our website at www.swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk. If you are interested in volunteering then please email us at volunteerswpride@hotmail.com for a registration form, we would love to hear from you. We hope you come and enjoy a safe and friendly day and never forget, the greatest gift you will ever have is to love and be loved in return.
This truly is a community wide event, which is made inclusive of everyone due to the efforts to ensure this a free event and fundraising takes place throughout the year. ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Swindon Dance Swindon Dance is a Place where ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.
artists; it is one of the few dance led performance venues in the UK outside of London.
Swindon Dance is located in the heart of Swindon, where from its base in the town’s former Victorian Town Hall, it has for over three decades been a leading innovator in Dance Development in the UK.
As well as providing dance opportunities for a broad and diverse range of people, we are passionate about the nurturing and development of talented young dancers. Our Youth Dance Academy now in its 7th year, is a Centre of Advanced Training, and aims to create the Dancers of the Future.
Each year thousands of people of all ages and abilities Take Part in a comprehensive range of quality classes, project and performances. For many this will be a leisure pursuit and a fun pathway to health and well being but for many others Swindon Dance has provided a step into an amazing career in dance. Grown Ups who simply love to dance can join in one of the many diverse sessions in our class programme, whilst for children and young people there are a range of classes and youth groups where they can learn how to create dance and perform. One of the organisation’s biggest secrets is its unique Studio Theatre which has been a seedbed for some of today’s world class professional dance companies, chorographers and
Our Incubate & Associate Artist programmes provide the space; mentoring and production support to enable dance professionals to create and produce quality performance work and maintain sustainable careers as dancers. We ensure dance reaches still more people through our Dance Out and Taking Part programmes, bringing dance to a range of schools, community groups especially in areas of disadvantage both locally and further afield in the SW region.
Swindon Dance is a National Dance Agency, funded by the Arts Council and Swindon Borough Council.
Childrens Summer Dance School A three day, fun and lively summer school for boys and girls aged 6 – 10 years. Three days of Salsa, Samba, Carnival, Capoeira (Brazilian Martial Arts) with a Sports Twist! No dance experience needed. Price: £22 per day OR book for all 3 days £55 (book by 30th June) Early / Late Drop-Offs available 9am – 4pm £4 per hour Book on-line at www.swindondance.org.uk / 01793 601700
SWINDON DANCE Regent Circus, Swindon, SN1 1QF. Tel 01793 601700 SWINDON DANCE IS A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE REGISTERED IN ENGLAND & WALES NO. 5467343 REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 1111476
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Photo: Rachel Cherry
Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd & Wednesday 24th August | 10am – 3pm
Estelle School of Dance ESTELLE SCHOOL OF DANCE The Estelle School of Dance is the only dance school in Swindon to perform their shows for charity at this year the show is Peter Pan The British Musical and the charity is Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. The show is being performed at The Wyvern Theatre on 23-25 June with a two performances on the Saturday. The school is run solely and entirely by the Principal Pat Bennett who opened the school in 1952 and this year once again she had produced a stunning show with all dancers from the age of 2 upwards taking part and with a numbers of adults as the ensemble and some of the main parts including herself as Mrs Darling. It is quite a family affair with Pats daughter Jen Bamford as the quite brilliant musical director and her grand daughter Alex Bamford playing the part of Tinkerbell. They performed the show once before in 2008 when they raised £6000 for Great Ormond Street. Abigail Daniels who was 8 in 2008 played the part of Michael,(pictured below) but now at the grand old age of 16, having danced with The Estelle School for nearly 15 years she has been cast in the part of Peter Pan and Abigail says she feels very proud and privileged to be playing such an amazing role.
The show itself is a very expensive production to put on especially with the flying equipment and with the magnificent sets and scenery being shipped in from London. It will be a very colourful show Abigail said with amazing sets and scenery and lots great songs and dances and of course the flying! Please come and support this local dance school, help raise funds for a very worthy charity and be transported to Neverland by this wonderful show performed by some very talented youngsters. Tickets are on sale from the Wyvern Theatre 01793 524481 £12.00 or £10.00 concession. ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Wyvern Theatre Update With less than 80 days to go until this year’s Wyvern Theatre Summer Youth Project. The excitement is starting to grow! The main roles have been cast and this year we have a group of relatively new but talented young principals hoping to do justice to the hit musical, Grease. We have 180 members in the company this year ranging from 9 – 21 years old, all differing in their skills and abilities – that is the joy of the Summer Youth Project, it brings together young people from Swindon and the surrounding areas for two weeks of music, dance, experience and most of all fun! Not only will the young people make up the cast, they’ll also be involved behind the scenes and in the tech team, helping with costumes, set design and prop sourcing…does anyone know where we can get a 1948 Dodge convertible in Swindon? Tickets for the production, which runs from Thu 25 - Sat 27 August, are already on sale. So whether you’re interested in taking part in a Summer Youth Project next year, have a friend or family member in the show or just a fan of arguably one of the best musicals in history, we look forward to seeing you in the audience this August. Nyree Kingsbury – Community and Education Officer & Summer Youth Project Coordinator The Summer Youth Project attracts participants from all backgrounds and so we’re thrilled to be able to offer a number of bursaries thanks to The Wyvern Theatre Foundation. The Foundation is a registered charity that helps young people in Swindon and Wiltshire participate in the Arts and has been providing bursaries to help young people take part in our productions since 2008. In order to provide these bursaries, the Foundation hold regular fundraisers, many of which we host here at the Wyvern Theatre. PAGE 18
S u m m e r Y o u t h P r o j e c t 201 6 presents
Thu 25 – Sat 27 August BOOK , MUSIC, AND LYRICS BY JIM JACOBS AND WARREN C ASEY ‘GREASE’ IS PRESENTED THROUGH SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH AND ALL AUTHORISED PERFORMANCES MATERIALS ARE SUPPLIED BY THEATRICAL RIGHTS WORLDWIDE (TRW) OF NEW YORK ‘HOPELESSLY DEVOTED TO YOU’, ‘YOU’RE THE ONE THAT I WANT’, ‘SANDY’ AND ‘GREASE’ BY ARRANGEMENT WITH ROBERT STIGWOOD
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Dance Feature
Local Dance School celebrates exam success and prepares for an exciting summer of dance. For more information about MAD, visit www.mad-online.co.uk 24 students from Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama celebrate gaining excellent results in their recent ISTD Ballet and Modern exams and are now busy preparing for their summer show. ‘Madness at the Circus’ is the schools second production and takes place at Theatre on the Hill in Marlborough on Saturday 16th July. Over 100 children, aged 4-18, will be taking part in the production which includes ballet, contemporary, street dance, tap, modern, boy’s street, singing and drama. Tickets for the show are available at www.ticketsource.co.uk/stjohnstheatreonthehill.
After last summers successful summer school, Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama will be running Camp MAD from 25th -29th July, at St John’s School in Marlborough. The summer camp runs from 9.30-3 Monday – Friday, with a performance at 2pm for family and friends on the final day. The Camp is split into 3 age groups, 6-9, 10-12 and 13+. Classes will include Drama, Singing, Jazz, Ballet, Street Dance, Choreography and Contemporary. Guest teachers include; Lisa Aldridge (Ballet), Melody Squire, Sol Dans (Contemporary) and Banxy (Street).
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Jamie Raven Q&A Very fancy! Eagle-eyed viewers of BGT spotted, quite literally, a hole in one of your tricks. Do you get annoyed with people trying to catch you out or is it part of the fun?
Hi Jamie, we were big fans of yours during your time on Britain’s Got Talent and we can’t wait to welcome you to the Wyvern Theatre in June – what can we expect from the show?
Not at all! I am not claiming to be magic or have any magical powers, all I am offering is a type of entertainment and trying to provoke people to think and talk about what they have seen. The fun in what I do is the audience trying to work out what they have seen. I just want people to enjoy what they see, enjoy the time that we spend together and leave them wanting to see just one more. You’re also featured on the BBC’s football coverage. What’s the coolest thing about that?
Thank you very much! It will be an evening of magic and grand illusion, there will be some of the close-up magic that I have spent the last 22 years of my life learning, some big illusions, and something in between with plenty of audience participation. The show will be suitable for the whole family.
It’s amazing because I’m a big football fan. I don’t get star struck but in terms of celebrity, I have nothing but respect for people who are famous for having a skill or being at the top of their profession. So getting to meet some of the high-profile premier league players is awesome!
You studied down the road at Bath University, did you ever venture into Swindon with your magic gigs?
Simon Cowell was bowled over by your skills and we’ve seen you perform for Sir Richard Branson – who would you most like to wow with a trick?
I did indeed, seems like a long time ago now, I graduated 12 years ago! At the time, I didn’t get to travel as far out as Swindon for any gigs but in the years since I have entertained on match days at Swindon Town FC and also did a wedding at Lydiard House, which was beautiful. What’s the best/funniest reaction you’ve had to one of your magic tricks? I think the best reaction now has to be Simon Cowell giving me a standing ovation and saying “I now actually believe in magic!” The funniest, I think, was Sir Richard Branson ordering me to be thrown off the plane, when I performed for him on the inaugural Virgin Atlantic flight to Detroit. That’s a pretty cool claim to fame! We’re sure you were inundated with requests for appearances after BGT – where’s the strangest place you’ve performed magic? Over the years there have been a few. I did a show on the London Eye in one of the pods that lasted the trip around. I was asked to perform on top of an open-air double decker bus in December a few years ago which was freezing. I was also once asked to do a show for 2 people in the back of a stretch Hummer limousine as it took them from a restaurant to a show in London. ANYTHING SWINDON
I think I would have to say Peter Kay, I love to laugh and I am such a big fan of everything he does. I think he is a genius, so funny. I loved Phoenix Nights and I got the Car Share DVD for Christmas which I will watch 10,000 times. You’ve just finished a West End run in The Illusionists at The Shaftesbury Theatre, what’s the ultimate goal? A West End residency? Vegas? My goal is to just keep doing what I’m doing for as long as I can. I am lucky enough to do (and have done for 12 years) something that I love for a living that makes people smile. At the moment we are trying to get a TV special off the ground. That would be incredible because it would allow me to share with more people what I do. I would love to go back to the West End with my own show, that would be amazing! I would also love to perform on Broadway in New York and the ultimate goal would be, as you said, my own show in Las Vegas. One step at a time though! Thank you for your time Jamie, we’re very excited for your tour and look forward to welcoming you back to Swindon in June! Call the box office for tickets
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL:01793 977117
PAGE 21
Swindon & District Branch The Kentwood Show Choir has chosen the Swindon & District Branch as their chosen Charity for 2016. Sheila Harrod has given us “dates for our diaries” for four concerts being putt on for the Branch’s benefit. PAGE 22
Arc Advertising Feature more than likely get hold of it. If you have any questions about anything you feel we may be able to help you with, send us a mail to info@arc-lighting.co.uk, or give us a call on 07525 496122.
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We would say that our speciality is with vintage fittings, but we can take inspiration from any clients requirements. We are offering on this website just a small selection of fittings that we have acquired and sourced over a period of time. these will be regularly updated, with bespoke fittings becoming available every now and again. We have provided lighting for a wide variety of high profile clients. Ranging from small off the shelf light fittings to large bespoke lighting displays. Images of some of these projects can be seen in the ‘projects’ section of this website.
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TEL: 01793 977117
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Councillor Updates Councillors Nadine Watts & Jane Milner-Barry – Old Town & East Wichel – New Councillor Following the recent elections, there is now a new Labour Councillor for Old Town & East Wichel. Jane MilnerBarry won by 301 votes. We would like to thank everyone for their support and look forward to following up on local issues, finding out what people think and keeping residents informed of what is going on. Grants - Running a community group or activity in Swindon? New shoots & community grants now open for applications http://www.swindon.gov.uk/communitygrant Town Gardens - a Sycamore tree near the aviary had to be removed due to severe decay. It is planned to replace it with a tulip tree in the winter. Work to replace the footbridge is still on track to start in September. M4 junction 16 improvements - Work to transform Junction 16 of the M4 is due to start later this summer after the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) approved the scheme. The work will see the roundabout altered and slip roads widened. The traffic signals will also be replaced and improvements will be made to the junction’s drainage. It is due to be completed by spring 2018. Email: oldtown@swindonlabour.co.uk - 07595071381 & 07864839746 More information can be found at: www.swindon.gov.uk/junction16
Cllr Kevin Parry – Conservative - Covingham & Dorcan Ward I am pleased to say, official figures show that I have completed the most case work in Swindon this year for the second year running. This is as a result of working with local residents and carrying out regular ward walks. Drugs in the Parks - Earlier this year, Barbara and I led a campaign on cracking down the drug taking in the local parks where needles were also discovered. I am pleased to say that with working with the Police this problem seems to have gone away. Barbara and I have carried out regular checks in the park and will continue to do so. Please do let us know if you come across any problems. Rubbish at Nythe Lake - Thank you to the residents that got in contact with me regarding the many white bags of rubbish dumped around Nythe lake. I am pleased to say that this has now been removed. E-mail: cllrkevin.parry@ntlworld.com - Tel: 07914 309291
Cllr Claire Ellis – Conservative - Old Town Ward News Update Town Gardens Bridge - I am pleased to inform you that the work to build the new bridge in the Town Gardens, will start this coming September, after the summer period. Lydiard Park Public Spaces Protection Order Public Meeting - The Council will be holding a meeting at the Civic Offices in the Council Chamber on 21 June at 6pm. This meeting will be to explain the detailed proposals and give residents the opportunity to ask any questions. Any Concerns - If you have any local concerns that you wish to raise with me, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will assist where I can. claireellis@hotmail.co.uk
Wroughton and Wichelstowe Ward – Conservative Councillor Brian Ford would like to thank all those who voted for him at the Borough Council election on 5th May when he was re-elected with over 50% of the votes cast. Brian says he will continue to work for what he feels is best for Wroughton and its residents as a whole. He remains on Cabinet in a new role in charge of Adults Services. Wroughton Neighbourhood Plan Working Party and Wroughton Parish Council have formulated Wroughton Neighbourhood Plan by consulting all residents. It sets out how the Parish will develop over the following 11 years. The next stage in the process is to hold a referendum to find out whether you, the residents, support it. As ward councillors we encourage everyone to vote at Wroughton Neighbourhood Plan Referendum on Thursday 9th June at the Ellendune Community Centre. You are probably aware that planning applications have been submitted for approximately 100 houses on the old Hills tip site (off Swindon Road/ Woodland View) and for 14 houses on Wroughton Airfield. Whilst it appears that the Hills planning application has a long way to go before a decision can be made, the Airfield application is likely to be heard in June. Cllr Brian Ford has asked that both applications be brought before the Borough’s Planning Committee rather than be decided by officers. All 3 of your conservative Ward Councillors are lobbying to speed up the build rate, especially in Mid- and West- Wichel, in the hope that if the build rate is increased, the Borough will then be able to demonstrate a 5 year housing land supply. Please bear with the temporary disruption which might be caused whilst the new Zebra Crossing is installed on Devizes Road. We will try to keep any disruption to a minimum and it will be good to have a pedestrian crossing which should make it easier and safer to get across this busy road. If you have any issues that concern Swindon Borough Council, we are all happy to help wherever possible. You can contact us as follows: Councillor Brian Ford: bjf.ford1@gmail.com or tel: 813194. Councillor Wayne Crabbe: 07828-163052 / 845915 Councillor Cathy Martyn: cathy@themartynfamily.co.uk or call 813615. Anything Swindon is completely un-biased and we welcome comments from all parties. All parties, please send your views to us at info@anythingswindon.co.uk To reach us no later than the 15th of the month. PAGE 24
Mp Update
Robert Buckland MP Update I have been contacted by many local people about the Berkeley Farm development in Wroughton and as your MP and fellow local resident, I actively opposed this proposal and gave evidence at the Planning Appeal held earlier this year in Swindon. I firmly believe that we need regeneration and redevelopment here in South Swindon, however I also believe that we need to stick to the Swindon Local Plan that was approved only last year. Local plans are agreed plans that have been consulted upon and they must protect us against inappropriate developments. The recent appalling tower block proposal in Old Town is another example where plans were wholly inappropriate and out of place for one of the most historic parts of Swindon. I was relieved to hear that the plans had been pulled, due to the level of opposition in Old Town. This decision was a real testament to people power and I hope that any revised plans are more appropriate and cater properly for parking too. I am in regular contact with my colleague in the Government, Brandon Lewis MP, the Minister of State for Housing and Planning to share residents’ concerns and ask him what more can be done by the Government to protect Local Plans. As ever, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have a local or national issue that you would like to raise at one of my regular surgeries. Please get in touch with my office if you would like to book an appointment (01793 533393).
Twitter: @robertbuckland Facebook: www.facebook.com/robertbucklandmp Or you can contact my Swindon Office: Tel: 01793 533393 Email: robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk
Justin Timlinson MP Update Later this month, on the 23rd June 2016 we will face a once-in-a-lifetime chance to vote on Britain’s place in the world. In the Conservative Manifesto last May, we were the only party to outline plans to deliver an in/ out referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union. I am proud that we have delivered on this promise and that this decision will ultimately be up to the great British public to decide. I personally find myself where I suspect the vast majority of people are. Whilst already being hounded with statistics and counter-statistics, what we all want, and what the public deserve, is an informed and well-balanced debate to take place. Many people will know that I am a Eurosceptic by nature. I share the everyday frustrations of the European Union - such as the bureaucracy and the escalating cost - but also more substantial and longstanding issues such as the increasing interference in British Sovereignty. I also think that the European Union has escalated into something that was never originally intended when people first voted to join the European Economic Community. I also believe that we could succeed on our own. This is Britain. We have achieved great things and we will continue to achieve great things whether we are in the European Union or not. However the Prime Minister has achieved significant concessions and reforms in his renegotiation. Including zero obligation to bail-out EU countries, an-opt out of Schengen open borders, co-operation on vital security issues and crucially, an opt out of ever closer union, meaning Britain will never become part of a “European superstate.” Fundamentally the deal is this. Should we stick with the “safe bet” of the status quo, or should we roll the dice and embrace the growing global economy on our own terms. My instinct - my gut instinct - is that I want to vote out. As the 5th largest economy in the world, I believe that Britain can succeed and govern freely on its own. But I absolutely understand what a serious and important decision this is. Like the majority of the public I will be agonising about this over next few weeks. I am therefore grateful that this crucial decision will be reached not by me alone, nor politicians. But by all of collectively. By the great British public.
MPs Office, 1 Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE - 01793 533393 justin.tomlinson.mp@parliament.uk ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL: 01793 977117
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Come and find us at the Old Town Festival on 12th June as we celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday and receive a free booklet:
The Servant Queen and the King she serves
There will also be free children’s activities and other challenges
www.swec.org.uk office@swec.org.uk
Charity No. 1129912
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ABOUT US Located in Swindon, Ridgeway 4x4 are a small family firm who have over 20 years’ experience in, selling parts, repairing - and, most of all - driving all makes and models of Land Rover. During that time, we have tackled most problems Land Rovers can throw at their owners! And a few more besides. We can supply and source brand-new Land Rover parts as well as fully guaranteed reconditioned units and components. We always have a good stock of gearboxes and alternators. Whether you’re looking to restore or repair your current Land Rover, or are looking to buy another one Ridgeway 4x4 are here to help. We offer completely impartial advice and assistance with every aspect of owning a Land Rover. Alternatively contact us directly if you have a specific requirement.
HELPING CUSTOMERS SINCE 1992 We’ve helped hundreds of Land Rover owners from around the UK and internationally here at Ridgeway4x4, and have a 99.5% positive feedback rating on our Ebay store. Here’s just a few of the comments we have received: Really excellent service and advice. What I thought would be an expensive repair turned out to be far simpler thanks to their advice. Mr J Webb, Trowbridge
These guys really know their stuff! Mrs D Buchanan, Reading Great communication. A pleasure to do business with. - Ebay comment
ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL: 01793 977117
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Sands Feature
Early in May I received a phone call late one evening from my younger brother Steven whose wife Beccy was that week due to give birth to our newest family member Clarke. On answering his phone call I expected him to tell me she was in labour and that his daughter was finally on her way. This wasn’t the case and my excitement soon turned to immense sadness as my brother in tears explained to me that baby Clarke had died, and that Beccy was now due to give birth in the natural way to their stillborn baby girl. The Next day having driven straight up to Walsall I visited my Brother and Beccy in hospital and had the chance to hold Clarke in my arms for the first and last time. The pain and indescribable emotion had me thinking of other families who have experienced this and the support if any for those going through this terrible period in their life. It was back home in Swindon I discovered Sands, and as a result of contacting Laura and discussing the support the group give not only in Swindon but nationally I wanted to help raise awareness of Sands in any way I could.
Swindon Sands is a local Sands group, offering support to bereaved parents in Swindon and surrounding areas. It was founded in 2008 and is run by local parents who have lost a baby too. Sands is a national charity, established by bereaved parents in 1981. We have 3 core aims: To support anyone affected by the death of a baby; To work to improve the quality of care and services offered to bereaved families; and to promote research that could help to reduce the loss of babies’ lives. Charity number 299679. Everyone working with Swindon Sands have at some point experienced the loss of a baby and the devastating and heart-breaking effects it has. We have found ourselves on a journey that we never wanted to be on and have to rebuild our hopes and dreams. Sands (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society) has been and continues to be a huge support to many bereaved parents including myself, having lost our little boy Adam in January 2007, at 31 wks in pregnancy. He has given me the inspiration to want to move forward in this life with more strength, compassion, determination and courage. Out of that strength and with the strength of others, has grown Swindon Sands, to offer support to local parents and families who have suffered the devastating loss of a baby. I hope that you will find the support you need here at Sands in your journey ahead.
“Even the smallest feet have the power to leave a footprint” Clarke Bobbie Worrallo 10/05/2016 PAGE 28
Cathy A. Milburn Chair. Proud Mummy to Adam Lee Milburn - 02/01/07
Sands Awareness Month 2016 June is Sands Awareness Month, when we all work hard to increase awareness of stillbirth and neonatal death and the everlasting impact experienced when a precious baby dies during pregnancy, at birth or shortly afterwards. While many more people are aware of the pain of baby loss because of the work of Sands and others, many people still have no idea and it remains a taboo subject. More recently we’ve all made a lot of progress in breaking the silence, but there is a long way to go. This is a chance for us all to do our bit, no matter how small, to make people listen; to highlight the fact that over 100 babies will die each week during the month of June and to raise vital funds so that Sands can continue to support, research, and improve.
Our support lines are manned by volunteers, so if you try to call and get no response, please leave a message and someone will be in touch.
Swindon: 07519 832642 Devizes: 07933 396992
EtaEtion FoR l nsu C
This year will see the launch of our Walk a Mile in My Shoes event taking place at Coate Water Park June 18th 11:00am ANYTHING SWINDON
Home Design, Architecture, Planning, Drawings, Building Regulations, 3D Visuals, Marketing + more... single storey Ben Williams 01793 920265
ben@benwill.co.uk
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extension designed from
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Community Centre @ Christ Church Facility Hire available for clubs, groups and family parties. Main hall, garden room, large meeting room and fully functioning kitchen.
Contact Chris Smith for more information: Community Centre @ Christ Church Cricklade Street, Swindon, SN1 3HB Telephone: 01793 617237 or Mob: 07582 305760 Email: chris.smith@ccccswindon.co.uk Book on-line at: www.ccccswindon.co.uk
THE DEN Hair and Beauty
now charging and with a maximum stay of 2 hours. It was time to rethink the future of the salon. The move to the old Hardware shop on Beechcroft Road was perfect enabling us to keep our existing clientele and staff. The owner Denis La Touche and his daughter Sue see this as positive move and something that the area has been lacking. Having originally come from Hathaway Road the shops have not changed much and with the opening of the new salon it will bring new people to the area which will benefit all the shops. The shop has been completely refitted to accommodate all hair and beauty needs and have a tanning room too. There is plenty of parking, as well as the parking in front of the shop we have cleared out the rear yard and made free parking for about 8 cars, so no more tickets for our customers.
The Den is a long established hair, beauty and tanning salon which has been trading for 11 years along Clive Parade, unfortunately with new landlords pushing up the rent beyond what is reasonable and the car park PAGE 30
We opened for business on Tuesday 31st may and we look forward to meeting some new people and giving you the best service possible.
LIDEN CFC U8 Liden Community football club are based at Liden Primary School and play in the North Wilts Youth Football League. We are always on the look out for new players. If you have a boy or girl interested in joining please email lidenfcsecretary@ sky.com or lidenfctreasurer@outlook.com with your contact details and players age and we ask the relevant coach to get in touch.
We are looking for players in the following age groups:
Under 7s, 9s, 10s, 11s, 12s, 13s, 15s and under 16s
“We’re always looking for new players and new sponsors.” BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY!
Exciting Local Business Opportunity!
A fantastic new business opportunity has arisen to acquire an established Debutots franchise spanning Swindon and Surroundings Debutots is the UK’s premier drama-in-education company for the early years. If you have a passion for drama and storytelling, love working with children and would relish the flexibility and independence of running your own business, then this might be the opportunity for you!
Jenni Saunders of Old Town on Debutots, innovative storytelling and drama classes for young children:
“I started running Debutots in 2008 and I’m very proud of it’s excellent reputation. Debutots has links with many amazing schools and nurseries, in the Swindon area. I’m now looking for someone local to take over the business, This would be perfect anyone looking for a part time job where you are the boss, with experience in working with children, theatre or storytelling. Training and equipment is included in the price, as well as the classes currently running.” To find out more, contact Jenni on
For more information please contact Jenni 01793 325785 jenni@debutots.co.uk
www.debutots.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
jenni@debutots.co.uk or 01793 480631. Or see the Franchise section of the Debutots website for more information visit
www.debutots.co.uk TEL:01793 977117
PAGE 31
Motorsport News!
NESBITT EXTENDS SERIES LEAD WITH BRANDS HATCH WIN! E3 Motorsport / Redline KTM HEL Performance British Motostar Championship Round Three - 20/22 May 2016 - Brands Hatch Indy
Championship leader, Charlie Nesbitt, consolidated his lead in the standings with a well calculated and mature ride to victory on the short 1.2 mile Brands Hatch Indy circuit yesterday, securing his third race win in live races to establish a healthy 13 point lead over his nearest rival in the series.
Starting from sixth place on the grid for Sunday’s 22 lap feature race, Charlie briefly ran in ninth position on lap three, but quickly came through the pack to take second position on lap six, but with a three second gap to the leader. Riding with maturity beyond his years, Charlie closed the gap and made his move for the lead on lap 20, from then he was never headed and took his third victory of the season as he crossed the line with an advantage of almost two seconds.
Charlie was competitive all weekend, always in the top four throughout free practice and qualifying, and lined up in fourth place on the grid for Saturday’s short 16 lap sprint race. The team elected to switch to wet weather tyres on the grid due to light rain, however, within a few laps of the start, the track dried rapidly. Having dropped to ninth place midrace, Charlie fought back strongly in the closing stages to salvage sixth position at the chequered flag. PAGE 32
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all our sponsors for making this season possible, and massive thanks to Pirelli, especially Jason Griffiths, for providing excellent tyres, support and advice.” - Nick Carpenter (Team Principal - 0 Motorsport / Redline KTM) The next round takes place at Knockhill over the weekend 24-26 June. Photographs: Bonnie Lane written & distributed by: Martin Knighton e3 Motorsport / Redline KTM
Regular lawn mowing from £12 per visit
01793 477800
GardenRoomSwindon.co.uk Commercial grass cutting services also available.
GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 January 15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah
Ask AMS
Advice for small businesses AMS Accountancy Ltd. 01793 818400
My business partner spent the profits from our business – am I now responsible for the debts? If your business is a Partnership, not a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), all partners are “jointly and severally liable” for the Partnership debts. If there are no Partnership funds for the bills, creditors can chase you personally for the money – even though your partner took it out of the business. In a Limited Company or a Limited Liability Partnership, you would not be liable for these debts. Here, the monies and assets would be owned by the business itself. Exceptions: loans with a personal guarantee and trading while insolvent or fraudulently. www.ask-ams.co.uk @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL:01793 977117
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Pearce Funeral Services 1 Groundwell Rd, Swindon, SN1 2LT 01793 422422
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Based in Stratton St Margaret, for your extra convenience we also have offices at 1 Groundwell Road, 300 yards from the Registrar’s Office, an easy place to call into after registration. We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. 01793 92 Ermin Street,487286 Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072 or 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon, SN1 2LT – 01793 422422.
Call
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www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk PAGE 34