f/c
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TO ADVERTISE HERE CONTACT GRAHAM ON INFO@ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 340065
Regent Circus will transform leisure landscape Swindon is set to be transformed with the much-anticipated launch of the exciting new £50 million Regent Circus leisure destination. The leisure landscape of the city will be revolutionised when the wraps are finally taken off Regent Circus. Swindon residents and visitors will, for the first time, have a wide range of well known high street restaurant chains to choose from, including Nando’s, Prezzo, Jimmy’s World Grill and Bar, Ask, Gourmet Burger Kitchen and Coal Grill & Bar. The development will also host all the latest blockbuster movies at the new Cineworld six-screen all digital multiplex cinema. A Morrisons superstore and a 450-space car park completes the impressive package. Regent Circus has risen from the five-acre former site of Swindon College, adjacent to Victoria Road and Eastcott Hill. Leading commercial property developers Ashfield Land acquired the freehold in 2006 which facilitated the college’s relocation to a new £17 million campus. Work on the entertainment complex started last summer. Picture on Right: CGI image of the finished project
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Residents and businesses agree that the development will be of huge economic benefit to the town and will act as a catalyst to attract and retain visitors, competing with nearby towns and cities including Cirencester and Bristol Hundreds of jobs are being created for local people.
There is still one restaurant unit available but Ashfield Land is confident the complex will be full when the doors finally open.
Morrisons recently announced it was recruiting 180 people for its new store, and there will be many more job opportunities at the eight restaurants and at Cineworld. James Digby, director of Ashfield Land, said: “Things are progressing very well and everything will be open by the end of this year. “Construction of the building for Morrisons food store is now complete and they have moved in and are starting to fit it out. We are hoping to complete construction of the rest of the development by the end of the summer so we can hand everything over for the tenants to fit out all the units.”
ANYTHING SWINDON
“Regent Circus is a truly inspiring development and will become the leisure focus of the city for many years to come. The high quality of the development and the exceptional location has attracted some of the UK’s leading restaurant brands and one of the top four supermarket operators.” He added:
Image above: CGI image from inside of complex. Andrew Fisher, managing director of Ashfield Land, said: “We always said that we would create an exceptional new leisure destination right in the very heart of Swindon and I think the evidence is there for everyone to see that we have delivered everything we promised.
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
“Interest in the units at the development accelerated once we started construction and it served to highlight the pent-up demand and the strength of the development, which is anchored by Cineworld. It is enormously satisfying to see the jigsaw almost complete and the transformation of this part of Swindon town centre on the brink of being realised.”
Many Thanks to Paul Skipp from Barques PR for the supplied images.
TEL:01793 340065
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A New Era for Swindon College and Regent Circus With the work at the former Swindon College development site at Regent Circus nearing completion, we reflect as a new chapter opens for this location in the heart of Swindon’s town centre. The college first came into being when the GWR works in Swindon became one of the first employers in the country to introduce an Apprenticeship programme in the mid 1800s. Apprentices were given time each week to be trained in the classroom. Demand grew, which led to the opening of a technical college in 1896. This is the red brick building still standing at the bottom of Victoria Road. In the 1960s Swindon College built a large eight storey building and workshops (officially opened by HRH Prince Philip) next to the red brick construction, which became the main college. Alongside a similar scale campus development at North Star, these expansions have enabled the college to deliver teaching to hundreds of thousands of students over the years. By the new millennium the Regent Circus buildings needed extensive modernisation and in 2005 the land was sold to fund PAGE 6
a new building at North Star. The Regent Circus land has now been redeveloped and will bring new life to the area through the many facilities it will offer. Swindon College’s new campus building at North Star, opened in 2006 by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall – has helped to improve the quality of the education the College has been able to deliver. Work to improve the campus has continued since with the addition of: New plumbing workshops, ceramics and print studios, carpentry workshops and a Student Enrichment Centre.
Subsequently, in 2013, Swindon College was awarded Outstanding status by Ofsted. During 2014 the college has added a £2.6m new construction centre for plastering and bricklaying students and has undertaken a £1m refurbishment of the premises used by
students with learning difficulties. The partnership with the Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts has also seen an expansion which has more than doubled the studio space in West Swindon. Swindon College offers the widest range of courses and study options in the Swindon area, with qualifications available from Entry Level through to postgraduate study. We deliver hundreds of courses working in partnership with institutions such as Oxford Brookes University, the University of Bath, Edexcel, City & Guilds, AAT and many more.
Times have changed significantly since Swindon College was established over 100 years ago but we are very proud both of our history and heritage within Swindon and of the quality of education and facilities we offer the local community today.
Calling all dog lovers! A Swindon woman has set up a new luxury dog-boarding business and is looking for ‘carers’ to help look after her new canine-clients. Hilary Coates bought the franchise from awardwinning Wagging Tails earlier this year & explains: ‘At Wagging Tails each one of our dogs is looked after individually by a dog-loving carer, who’s at home all day and will welcome them into their home making sure they get the same exercise, love and affection they usually get from their owners. We have a ‘sniffing-out meeting’ before the stay so dog, owner and carer can all meet & get to know each other.
Wagging Tails ad not received yet?
‘I’m looking for dog-lovers who would like to earn a bit of ‘pocket money’, who may or may not still have their own dog and who enjoy daily walks and the company of a dog in the house. To find out more about becoming a carer for Wagging Tails see the advert on this page.
Watch our Society continue to take flight Swindon Cage Bird Society was established before the Second World War. It’s made up of people who all have one thing in common – birds! As the name suggests all the members of the CBS breed many different types of birds: canaries, budgies, finches, lovebirds, british native, splendids, parottlets and more. Over the years the CBS had an incredible following but as times changed this dwindled dramatically during the 2000’s. In the last 2 years we have seen a vast increase in people joining our CBS, coming together once a month to chat, discuss, debate and generally enjoy the cage bird breeding hobby. Every year in October, SCBS hold an open show which means that all the Swindon CBS members and members of ANYTHING SWINDON
other CBS’s around the South of England come together to exhibit the birds they have bred to be judged against each others of the same type. Swindon CBS offers everyone a chance to talk about what they are doing, what problems someone has come across, what successes have been achieved. With members covering a vast age range from 10 to 80 there’s bound to be an answer from someone. WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
So if any of you have ever had any thoughts about taking up this wonderful and rewarding hobby then come along to our monthly meetings.
Call Mac on 01793 700003 if you’d like to find out more information.
TEL:01793 340065
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Councillor updates A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PENHILL AND UPPER STRATTON COUNCILLOR
I am writing to thank all residents who voted for me in the Local Elections. I am very proud to have been elected as your Labour Councillor for this Ward. Your Labour Councillors will work as a team to address all the issues you bring. We will work with all agencies and hold regular surgeries,attending community and Locality meetings. If you have any issues please contact us. Thank for electing me as your local Councillor.
Regards Cllr Joe Tray YOUR LOCAL COUNCILLORS Cllr Joe Tray: j.tray@ntlworld. com. 01793334598 Cllr Teresa Page- teresapageswindon@yahoo.co.uk 01793825481 Cllr Paul Baker- pauljbaker@ ntlworld.com - 01793334598
A MESSAGE FROM PARK SOUTH COUNCILLORS Cavendish Green Many of you have been enjoying the new green park by Cavendish Square. The sculpture was created with ideas from Park South Youthie & the artwork with children from Oaktree school. The fruit trees & play equipment are available for all. Watch out for its official opening which will be soon. Park South A new local group has taken over the running of Park South Community Centre from 1st July
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2014. In December 2013 the Council advertised for a local group to run the facility. The Swindon Tamil Association were approved as the group to run the centre and are very keen to work with the local community to ensure the facility is affordable and accessible for local people in the area. Please do consider using this facility if you are not already. Please come along to our Councillor Surgeries which is on the 1st Saturday of each month 10-11am at the Shop. Or contact us, using the following contact details: PARK SOUTH COUNCILLORS Cllr Neil Heavens- abacus. swindon@gmail.com; 07900 561502 Cllr Fay Howard- fayhoward@ live.co.uk; 07952 350656 Cllr Derique Montaut- derique. montaut@ntlworld.com; 07711 556261 WALCOT & PARK NORTH NEWS Councillors Surgery Ward councilors for Walcot & Park North will be holding a councilors surgery on Saturday 2nd August 2014 at the charity shop in Cavendish Square from 10.00am to 11.00am and the at the Buckhurst Community Centre from 11.00am to 12.00pm. Residents are welcome to drop in and express any concerns or issues they may have or they can contact councilor Abdul Amin on 07921269301. Sussex Square I am extremely happy to say that Sussex Square regeneration plan is moving a step closer. An application is currently being considered by the Swindon Borough Council’s planning department and a decision is
expected within the next few weeks. I can confirm that the first phase of the development would be at the former bull dog site fronting Queens Drive, where a new super market would be built along with four individual retail outlets. Construction work is expected to start on autumn of this year subject to planning approval; copy of the plans can be viewed at the community shop in Sussex Square. Residents will be kept informed of further progress, however should you have any queries or wish to now more please contact your ward councilor Abdul Amin on 07921269301. Walcot West Parking Issue I am pleased to inform residents of West Walcot that with the help of some volunteers from the local residents we now have the surveys back and it has been analysed by Swindon Borough councils high ways team to see the residents preferred option. We will be calling for a public meeting hopefully early August to consult residents of the best way forward. NADINE WATTS, COUNCILLOR, OLD TOWN Old Town Festival The Old Town Festival had another successful year. It is a much loved and popular event with the family fun day on the Lawns and the concert at the Bowl. It was an honour to be Vice-Chair of the Old Town Festival Committee and I hope to work with the committee again next year. Croft Road Development Local residents have raised concerns regarding the planning application off of Croft Road for 62 dwellings. I objected as I have concerns about the traffic
impact, it is not in the local plan and think this land should act as a buffer between the existing houses on Croft Road and East Wichel. The Council’s Forward Planning Team have raised a policy objection to the principle of the development. Croft School Safety Measures There was a Croft event this week to gain local opinion as to how the Croft School Safety zone and parking restriction should look in the area. There is information and an on-line survey at www.swindon.gov. uk/croftevent Paper copies are available on request. The consultation runs until 5 September. Please have your say. East Wichel There is an East Wichel parking consultation which will take place on 23 July at the East Wichel Community Association meeting at 7.30pm. I hope to see you there. The long awaited permanent play area in East Wichel should be open by the end of July. This is fantastic news for local residents. It is a brilliant design and I am sure it will be well used.
The cycle track/Oasis underpass
RODBOURNE CHENEY COUNCILLORS Moredon Golf Course Following the decision to exclude Moredon Golf from the council’s leisure & golf asset transfer scheme, it is vital that we secure the future of the course and its surrounding area as a green open space for local people. We are currently in discussions with council officers and others to try to develop the site as a sporting hub which we hope will mean the area is saved from the possibility of further housing development. Broadway Residents have been complaining about the difficulty of exiting The Broadway onto Whitworth and Cheney Manor roads, saying that it is dangerous for residents to drive out of their road. We have got officers to survey the road to establish exactly how bad the problem is. A possible solution is to connect the pedestrian traffic lights to a sensor which would trigger the red light pedestrian crossings thereby allowing more time for residents of The Broadway to exit.
BUGSY MALONE Thu 21 - Sun 24 August 2014
ANYTHING SWINDON
RODBOURNE CHENEY COUNCILLORS Cllr Jim Grant – grant4gt@ btinternet.com; 07814380178 Cllr Des Moffatt – fendessy@ yahoo.co.uk; 07709066707 Cllr Peter Watts - mailto:peter wattsrodbournecheney@live. co.uk; 01793 529163
Love, Bugsy Malone and I Could Have Been Anything That I Wanted To Be.
Swindon Youth Project Wyvern Theatre Bugsy Malone follows the rivalry between two half-witted street gangs and the washed up, wellintentioned, one-time boxer who steps in to take control of Fat Sam’s gang and give Dandy Dan and his boys what they’ve got coming. In this tongue-in-cheek tribute to 1920s gangsters, the message is one of romance and good, clean fun; the characters
Following the very sad murder of Tom Rogers at the underpass which connects the Oasis and Hawkesworth Industrial Estate to Station Road, there has been quite an extensive public debate about what needs to be done to prevent this happening again. While there is a perception that this walkway/cycleway is a “hot bed” of criminality the evidence does not suggest this. Rodbourne Cheney Councillors current view is that the underpass is a very convenient walkway/cycleway for residents in the Rodbourne Cheney area and while we wish for this walkway to be as safe as possible, we think any restrictions on its use should be avoided.
are wonderful cartoon cutouts; and the weapons of choice are “splurge” whipped cream guns, flour bombs, and custard pies. This fantastic show features all the favourite Bugsy songs such as Fat-Sam’s Grand Slam, I’m Feeling Fine, You Give A Little
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2014 marks the 20th anniversary of the Wyvern’s Summer Youth Project, so grab your splurge guns and join the Bad Guys for what promises to be the best SYP yet! For tickets call the Wyvern Theatre Box Office on: 01793 524481
TEL:01793 340065
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ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL:01793 340065
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Michelle Hobbs Tesco Extra Swindon I am responsible for liaising and representing Tesco with community groups and charities around the town My name is Michelle Hobbs and I am the community champion for Tesco extra Swindon.
I have worked for Tesco for 17 years in a variety of roles ranging from checkouts to pharmacy and most departments in between. I am currently the community champion for the store which means I am responsible for liaising and representing Tesco with community groups and charities around the town, this could be anything from the donation of a gift card or a raffle prize to attending a charity event or community group and lending a helping hand.
One of the projects I have recently been involved with is the transformation of a garden in Penhill for a young boy called Morgan who was born with down syndrome, he has a
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hole in his heart, feeding reflux, hearing and sight problems. He has subsequently had to have part of his skull removed because he developed an infection of the bones in his head and because of this he has to wear a head guard all the time.
We organised several fund raising events to be able to transform Morgans back garden into a place that was safe and fun for him to play in. I am also responsible for the Farm to Fork trails in the store, this is part of the eat happy project being run in Tesco. The trials are primarily for primary school children attending the schools in Swindon.
For more information please visit: www.tesco.com/eathappyproject. Trials are normally held in term time however there is the opportunity for a limited number of parents with children and youth groups to attend trials during the summer holidays. these must be booked with myself either in store or telephone: 07514408470. Lastly, I would just like to let you know that as part of the store refit we are having a community room built which can be booked free of charge by groups and individuals for meetings. for more information please contact me on swindon@communityattesco.co.uk. I look forward to hearing from you all. Yours, Michelle P.s On the 25th of august we are hoping to hold a community roadshow on the athletics track behind Swindon town football club. please look out for advertisement around store coming soon.
Tesco Extra Swindon New services coming to your local store.
Here at Tesco Swindon Extra we are about to transform your store by providing a number of new services allowing our customers to enjoy a variety of new experiences that will improve the shopping trip. Fulfilling the needs of our customers has always been at the heart of what we do and by providing a better store with better service we hope to make what matters to you better. We are delighted with the progress so far and look forward to meeting with you at our store launch on 25th August 2014. Here are a few of the new propositions and new depts, showing how your new store will look and feel .
smile goes a long way! Freshly cooked food for everyone served to the sound of great music — guaranteed to make you feel good! It’s about exploring the wonderful foods from around the globe. Laid back funky burger joints with awesome food, music & cocktails!
TIMPSONS CLEANERS
MAX SPIEL MAN PHOTOGRAPHY
This ensured everyone shopping at Timpson got a fair deal. Key cutting, and locker repairs, engraving jewellery and watch repairs.
Max Spielmann is the UK’s most experienced photo lab specialists. They’ve been producing professional quality images for over 50 years! They offer the complete range of services including online digital photo printing, poster printing, digital photo gifts, photo books, passport, visa and ID photos and prints.
HARRIS + HOOLE VIRGIN HOLIDAY SHOP Bringing great coffee to the retail store Harris + Hoole is all about good coffee and happy people. By “good coffee”, we mean “fantastic tasting, professionally crafted, speciality grade, directly sourced coffee”. GIRAFFE Giraffe create a friendly and welcoming place where a
ANYTHING SWINDON
Virgin Holidays have teamed up with Tesco in order to bring the fantastic Virgin Holidays experience to the Retail store All you need to do is find our store online and click the “make appointment” button. This will ensure you are put straight to the front of the queue, and won’t have to wait to been seen whilst in store.
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
Five generations of Timpsons have been involved in the business that bears their name John Timpson put his shoe shops back on the retail map by taking up the cause of the customer and introducing a Code of Practice.
IMPROVED DEPARTMENTS We have also brought to market a number of new look depts, that will provide an improved shopping experience with new ranges, fabulous displays and Creative designs. Our new look store really does move us into a new era of retailing and we very much hope you enjoy the changes we have made. Kind regards. Leroy Robinson Store Manager
TEL:01793 340065
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Could you be your own boss? Now there’sOutset an idea.
Have you ever had an idea for a business but were unsure who to ask for help?
Without Ou tset there would be no busin ess! We tried to open a shop before but lacked th e necessary business knowledge. Outset’s sup port ga g ve us the confiden ce e to succee d. Cy nthia & Max ime Bell, Pointe Perfe ction, Outset client s
to FREE support to help start their own business. Our programme is fully-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Swindon Borough Council. Our range of services includes information sessions, business start-up workshops, one-to-one guidance and help with accessing finance. This is not an academic qualification but hands-on vocational support and guidance tailored for you. Funded by
Take the first step! To find out more and book your place call us on freephone 0800
080 3024, email us at info@outsetswindon.co.uk or visit www.outsetswindon.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 340065
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Prospect Hospice welcomes community for its garden fete on 6 September Prospect Hospice is inviting people from across the local community to join them for a traditional summer fete in its grounds in Wroughton on Saturday 6 September. The charity, which last year cared for and supported more than 5,700 people from across north Wiltshire, opens its gates to the public for a traditional fete featuring stalls, games and refreshments every year, with hundreds of people expected to come along and have an afternoon of fun. Prospect Hospice fundraiser Genevieve Arney says: “We all look forward to the fete because it’s often a chance for us to meet many new and familiar faces, and to thank people for their longstanding support for their local hospice. When people come this year too they will see for themselves the two new lodges offering family accommodation that we opened at the beginning of July.” A free park and ride service will be provided by Thamesdown Transport from Nationwide, Pipers Way and it all starts from 12noon. Visitors to the fete will also have the opportunity to visit the Bluebell Walk, the remembrance area where dedicated inscribed pavers remember
loved ones who have been cared for at the Prospect Hospice. Fleet-footed supporters of the charity are also asked to consider signing up for its annual Let’s Dance fundraiser, which invites couples, to take dance lessons throughout the autumn in readiness for a gala performance on Friday 28 November. “Let’s Dance is really fun event for anyone who has ever wanted to learn to dance,” adds Genevieve. “It happens right in the middle of ‘Strictly season’, so for people who want a taste of a dance competition that supports a good local cause, now is their chance!”
For further details on Prospect Hospice’s Garden Fete, Let’s Dance or anything more about the charity’s forthcoming fundraising events, visit www.prospect-hospice.net
Join your local hospice lottery
Every week some ne £1
per
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or call 01793 816190 to join
Pr spect Hospice
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4
A youngster having fun at last year’s Prospect Hospice garden fete.
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A chance to win, a way to care Registered with the Gambling Commission
Registered Charity Number: 280093
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A family business... Fish Bros are a family owned car dealer group in Swindon that you can trust for quality, value and choice. A family run business which started back in 1948 in Faringdon, Fish Brothers is now a multi-franchise dealer group.
We offer you the Fish Brothers Promise on all our used vehicles so you have total peace of mind when you buy from us and we guarantee that our prices & offers on new and used cars are extremely competitive.
The Fish Brothers Group comprises of the following dealerships Faringdon Garage, Honda, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, and Toyota and now Volkswagen Van Centre (Swindon). Helping you to find the best deals on new cars and approved used cars across our brands. Fish Brothers offer a wide selection of used cars and new cars in Swindon, Wiltshire and the surrounding areas.
We are also licensed credit brokers which means we can introduce you to a number of lenders who may be able to help finance your purchase.
If you are looking for a specific model of used car in Swindon, you can make use of our Online Used Car Search which is designed to personalise your search and help you find your perfect match from our extensive range of approved vehicles. You can configure a new car, take a look at our finance calculator, book a service, make an enquiry, compare used cars and much more at www.fish-bros.co.uk
In addition to our main sites, we own a body shop and car accident repair centre located in Swindon. Our car repair services are fully guaranteed and backed by several manufacturers. We use the latest equipment & offer highly skilled workmanship and excellent customer service. Our car repair services also include a mobile smart repair service covering Swindon and the surrounding areas. Bristol, Bath, Reading, and Oxford. www.fish-bros.co.uk
Van Centre
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ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 340065
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4.9% Apr Finance Available On All New Kia’s
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Come and Visit us at our Swindon Showroom Fish Brothers Kia Mannington Roundabout Swindon SN57YQ 01793
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SWINDON AND CRICKLADE RAILWAY STEAM & VINTAGE WEEKEND 9 - 10th August Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane Blunsdon Swindon Wiltshire SN25 2DA Tel: +44 (0) 1793 771615 THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR 9 - 19th August Jump on the tractor rides and follow the story of the ‘Hungry Caterpillar’ and learn about the life-cycle of a butterfly along the way. Make your very own caterpillar in craft. Venue: Roves Farm Visitor Centre, Swindon JURASSIC FARM 20th August - 1 Sept Join our Roves Farm Ranger and dig up, detect and even discover a brand new species of Dinosaur on the the Free Tractor Rides! Venue: Roves Farm Visitor Centre, Swindon CHILDREN’S TREASURE HUNT 24th & 25th August Normal prices apply. Children (and parents!) have to hunt down 30 engine cut-outs, placed all over the railway. Venue: Swindon and Cricklade Railway BANK HOLIDAY FUN DAY 25th August Bank Holiday fun day with free admission. BBQ and bar, ice creams, bouncy castle, fair rides, face painting and glitter tattoos. Venue: Stanton Fitzwarren, Swindon CRICKLADE SHOW 25th August Wiltshire’s Premier County Show with plenty to do for all the family including; Horse Show, Arena Entertainment, Children’s Entertainment & Funfair, Dog Show and Animal Corner. Venue: Chelworth Road, Cricklade SN6 6HL ALPHABET CHALLENGE TRAIL All year through to 31st Dec 14 For an extra fun learning dimension, families can take up the Alphabet Challenge trail that takes you through the Museum. The Alphabet Challenge are included in standard admission. Venue: STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway, Swindon SUPERHERO SCHOOL 30th July - 8th August Test your strength and agility as you duck, dive and dodge your way through our elite PAGE 22
training course. What’s your Superpower? You decide... Venue: Roves Farm Visitor Centre, Swindon
A hop skip and a jump out of Swindon NGS WILTSHIRE OPEN GARDENS SHARCOTT MANOR 6th August & 3rd Sept 6-acre plantsman’s garden on greensand, planted for year-round interest. Wide range of trees and shrubs, densely planted mixed borders, with many unusual plants and climbers. Tree rambnleers, woodland walk and vegetable garden. Venue: Pewsey PICNIC CINEMA: THE HUNGER GAMES 9th August Pack your tents and don’t forget your torch! Picnic Cinema is coming to West Woods Forest near Marlborough this summer with one brilliant night of film, camping and festival antics. Venue: Marlborough PONY CUDDLE MORNINGS Every Weds throughout the year until 17th Dec Pony Cuddle Mornings for the under 4s at Rein and Shine. Every Wednesday 10am - 12noon. Venue: Rein and Shine, Braydon
MOON INDIGO
STEP UP: ALL IN
THE NUT JOB
Out 4th Aug (12A)
Out 10th July (PG)
In cinemas 17th July (U)
This is Gondry’s first French film and judging from the trailer it’s stuffed with enough cutsy quirks (retro typewriters, a cocktail-making piano, a flying cloud-car, Audrey Tautou, iceskating) to make Wes Anderson reach for the nunchucks. Tatou plays a woman who has a water lily growing in her chest. The only way the love of her life (Romain Duris) can keep her alive is by constantly buying her flowers. Lovers of French literature will recognise the story as the 1947 surrealist novel ‘L’Écume des Jours’ by Boris Vian. The trailer doesn’t have subtitles yet, but you don’t need a GCSE in French to translate ‘la plus poignante’.
Animal Far
Eight years after the original, ‘All In’ is the fifth of the Step Up franchise. Model turned actor Ryan Guzman picks up where he left off in ‘Step Up Revolution’ as Sean Asa, once again starring opposite Briana Evigan who reignites her role as Andie West. Against a backdrop of the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, ‘All In’ sees the embattled crew head to a national competition in the pursuit of their dreams in the face of adversity. If we’ve learned anything at all from the first four in the Step Up series it’s that there’s likely to be plenty of sexual tension and concentrated dance faces.
After he accidentally destroys the winter food supply of his fellow Liberty Park residents, Surly (Will Arnett), a squirrel, is banished to the streets of Oakton. Luckily, Surly finds the town’s nut shop and hatches a plan to plunder its bounty. However, unbeknown to Surly and his ragtag team of animal associates, the nut shop is really a front for mobsters who plan to rob the bank next door. While Surly and his team break in to the shop, the mobsters carry out their own scheme.
m
More than 100 animals are waiting to meet you this Summer Holiday at Farmtastic Animal Farm. We are home to the countries cutest, cuddliest, most entertaining animals. From Alpaca to Geese, Barn Owls to Pygmy Goats we've got it all!
Open Friday’s, Saturday’s and Sunday’s during the summer holidays please check our website for up to date opening times.
Tel: 01666 510477 contact@farmtasticanimalfarm.co.uk
£5 per person £17.50 per family
(2 adults + 2 children)
Lidats Meadows Farm, Grittenham, Chippenham, SN15 4JW
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The favourite twinkle-toed mouse comes to town Miranda Lawson’s ‘Angelina Ballerina The Mousical’ takes to the stage this summer It is now more than thirty years and twenty books since Angelina Ballerina, wearing her trademark pink tutu and matching ballet slippers took her first dance steps. Katharine Holabird’s twinkletoed mouse is an established favourite of young readers all over the world and her adventures have taken her first to the screen and now to the stage. Angelina Ballerina The Mousical, written by Miranda Lawson, is coming to Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre on a lengthy nationwide tour. Katharine is full of praise for what Miranda has done.
“She has really brought Angelina to life,” she enthuses. “I like the fact that there are no masks and so we can see the performers’ faces. I love the way that Angelina keeps translating into new mediums such as the theatre.” Angelina Ballerina is a prime example of writers making use of material from what is readily available. The inspiration for the character came from Tara, Katharine’s elder daughter, who showed a boundless enthusiasm for ballet at a very tender age. “All she wanted was a pink tutu, recalls Katharine. “She had this real passion for ballet PAGE 24
and took it so seriously that it was utterly captivating. I’d been thinking of writing something for children and my husband introduced me to Helen Craig who had already published a number of illustrated books. We worked together on a couple of projects and then we started to think about developing a children’s character. We’re still working together thirty years later.
“We decided to make her a mouse because children think of pet mice as cute and small and cuddly.” continues Katharine. And from the start
Helen drew Angelina with an impish joie de vivre that exactly fitted the character.” Angelina’s screen adventures include many forms of dancing, as does the stage show. In The Mousical’s finale we see Angelina and her friends strut their stuff in routines embracing ballet, hiphop, salsa and tap, showing how diverse dancing can be. Written by Al Senter. Angelina Ballerina The Mousical comes to the Wyvern Theatre on Tuesday 26 August. Book tickets online at swindontheatres.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 01793 524 481.
Principal Clare Jones tells us how Swindon based Danzone recently celebrated it’s 10th birthday Since opening our doors in November 2003 with a handful of students, it is incredible to think that we have arrived where we are today, 2014 has seen Danzone celebrate its 10th Birthday. To mark this occasion, we put on our first ever performance at the Wyvern theatre in Swindon. We had 116 dancers treading the boards who loved every minute. My desire has always been to offer a facility that makes dance accessible to all walks of life, and all shapes & sizes. Every dancing school has something different to offer.
I train my dancers to be confident and happy regardless of them being step perfect. I believe everyone has a time to shine. As a school we have grown from strength to strength. We have performed in a variety
ANYTHING SWINDON
of different arenas including numerous local community events such as The Old Town Festival, and School Fetes, as well as further afield on the big stage, including the prestigious Sadler’s Wells Theatre in the West End and the “New Theatre” in Oxford. Recently we had the pleasure in being invited to take part in the amazing show at the Wyvern “To Live is to Dance” to support a very special dancing lady and friend of mine. Danzone offer a variety of classes in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Musical Theatre, Kids Zumba, Adults Zumba, and Street Fit. Our youngest dancers are aged 2, are eldest are our adults, who have just
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been brave and also joined the students to perform at the Wyvern. Check out our website for more information and class details: www.danzone.co.uk
Miss Clare xx
TEL:01793 340065
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Studio J Academy of Dance – For all ages and abilities Studio J Academy of Dance, a friendly and innovative dance academy, has recently opened a new studio in Stratton. Established in 2014, Studio J offers fun, exhilarating and educational dance classes in a range of styles to suit children from age 2 up to adults, including: • Freestyle (Age 5+; suitable for all abilities) • Lyrical (Age 5+; suitable for all abilities) • Street Dance (Age 5+; suitable for all abilities) • Adult Street Fit® The Academy also runs a Saturday morning Mini Movers’ class at Pinetrees Community Centre, Pinehurst, for children aged 2-4. In addition to the opportunity to make new friends, the dance classes help to build confidence and improve balance, core strength, postural awareness, motor co-ordination and overall physical and cardiovascular health. Children in particular can expand their social and communication skills, learn how to work as part of a team and develop a greater sense of trust and cooperation. One mum said, “Lovely atmosphere. Kids love it and the dance teacher is fab; makes you feel welcome, reassures the kids and listens to them.” The classes are affordable, with no monthly fee commitment and the first class is free of charge. Anyone is welcome to come along, whether you want to dance for enjoyment, would like to lose weight, or would welcome the chance to gain recognised dance qualifications, enter competitions and participate in performances. Another student commented, “Brilliant teacher. Always look forward to class and always feel welcome! Amazing.” All Studio J’s teachers hold first aid certificates, have the relevant insurance and are DBS cleared, as well as being experienced and qualified within their chosen disciplines. Founder, Jessica Cook, studied ballet, tap and jazz before moving into performing arts and then freestyle dance. She has competed in nationwide competitions and won various titles. For more information, or to book your free class, please contact Jess on 07415 346998, email: hello@studiojacademyofdance.co.uk, or visit www.studiojacademyofdance.co.uk
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ANYTHING SWINDON
WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK
TEL:01793 340065
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TWO SWINDON STUDIOS:
• 15 Faringdon Road Swindon SN1 5AR • 134 Cricklade Road Gorse Hill, Swindon SN2 8AG mon to fri 7am to 9pm | sat 9am to 7pm sunday & bank holidays 10am to 5pm
By the community for the community Swindon & Wiltshire Pride 2014 returns to the Town Gardens in Swindon on the 9th August for the 7th year. The event is gathering momentum and is growing year by year. The park will be bustling with different zones including family, sports, arts, shopping and the public
ANYTHING SWINDON
sector zone sponsored by Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council) plus many amazing and talented artists on the Thames Water and Stephen G Sloan Stages.
and acceptance, as Wiltshire’s only LGBT Event. The event organisers continue to arrange this free event with one thing in mind ‘arranged by the community for the community’.
Come out to support us on the Parade or get involved by volunteering on the day. The event is to promote inclusion
Check out our website for more information www. swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk.
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TEL:01793 340065
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The Asiana Swindon is an exquisite dining and takeaway experience Designed by brothers Shah & Faz, with their only focus on creating Swindon’s first luxury dining sensory experience, the taste of first– class begins the moment you set foot in to the Asiana. Picturesque & practical the Asiana can seat over 200 people comfortably, carefully thought out to accommodate all of your friends, family or work colleagues & furnished with your relaxation as our top priority! With soft lighting and colourful glows, our Indian/ Italian restaurant can even set a romantic scene for couples who are in search of a cosy, intimate setting. Just let us
know what you need and we will bring to life your choice of ambience when you dine with us. Asiana’s unusual fusion of Indian/Italian dishes opens up an array of choice allowing you to enjoy more than one type of cuisine in the same restaurant. Launching our ‘Asiana After Dark’ live music nights which will be held most Friday & Saturday evenings from 9pm till late. You can enjoy your meal & then relax in our bar area whilst listening to the delights of a live jazz band & other similar musicians. Open for lunch everyday 12-2pm, we’re offering a special promotion ‘2 for £10’
on our lunchtime menu, this deal gives you the perfect excuse to lunch with us. Do you love cocktails? Well then we have the perfect deal for you... Everyday from 5.307pm we host our own version of Happy Hour but we give you ‘Happy Hour & a Half’ with 2 cocktails for £10. We look forward to having you dine with us – our job is to make sure you just eat,drink & relax! 2 Hoopers Place,Old Town,Swindon, SN1 3RA (we are opposite The Spot & next door to Subway)
2 Hoopers Place, Swindon,SN1 3RA
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your meal when you dine in with us! * T’s&C’s: Sun-Thurs only,1 voucher per table, min 2 person booking, valid till 30/09/14, dine in only, this voucher represents no cash value & cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers & promotions. You must present this voucher to claim.
ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 340065
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A warm welcome and great ambience from a hidden culinary gem Looking for a new culinary experience? Then look no further for a tasty treat than Asiana in Old Town. 5/5 4/5 5/5 4/5 5/5
stars for ambience and décor stars for menu choice for Starter for main meal stars for Service
Swindon has been gaining a reputation as a bastion of food innovation and I personally don’t doubt that. I have been dining in some of Swindon’s best-kept secrets for many years now and I must say it’s quite an experience. Whilst this so-called food revolution is happening in Swindon, for those of you seeking a local culinary experience like no other, look no further than Asiana. The restaurant is located in a rather unassuming converted Nightclub that’s quite easy to miss. However, the interior will take your breath away. The decor has clearly been designed to a very high standard, with textured walls and high ceilings it all helps towards a great ambience. The restaurant for a Monday evening seemed buzzing and maintained an exciting energy amongst the diners. Whilst browsing the menu, we were spoilt for choice, as Asiana has a vast selection of both Italian and Asian cuisine. We began with Asiana’s appetiser of mixed bruschetta, and a more traditional Garlic Bread with PAGE 32
Cheese, followed by a main course of Anatra al Pepe e Mostarde di Dijione (to me and you this is breast of Duck with a green peppercorn and Dijon mustard) and also Asiana Benghal Chicken with a side order of Pilau Rice.
little apprehensive to the idea of duck as he’d historically had only eaten duck as part of a Chinese meal. Having pretty much cleared his plate his only concerns was only receiving one piece of Broccoli on his mixed veg platter (!)
Our starters were very well presented and served in good time. Both main dishes looked delightful and the aroma was mouth-watering. Our dishes were presented within just ten minutes of us finishing our starters, to me, perfect timing. Admittedly I was a little nervous in trying something so different in Indian cuisine but I have to say the Asiana Benghal Chicken was cooked to absolute perfection. The chicken melted in my mouth and released a variety of delicious flavours, all of which were perfectly infused to create a fantastic dish. My fellow diner was also a
All in all we had a great experience at Asiana and our meals were presented with perfection. Though I would love to be selfish and keep Asiana all to myself, the work of the owners and all the staff is far too good to stay hidden for long. There’s no doubt a table at Asiana will quickly become the hottest reservation in Old Town. 2 Hoopers Place, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 3RA Tel: 01793 976500/976066 www.theasiana.com Open: Mon to Sun 5 - 11pm
We offer
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SWA are committed to empowering and supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse; by providing a range of flexible and accessible services that promote positive change. Using knowledge and expertise we inform policy and raise awareness to protect and keep victims and survivors safe. If you would like more information or advice please call our help line or email office@swindonwomensaid.org
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Summer fun Ferndale Community Primary School It really is a privilege to be included in this first edition of Anything Swindon. It’s a fantastic idea that will really help the local communities in Swindon come together and celebrate what’s going on around them.
Hundreds of people attended, not only from our school but from the surrounding community, queuing up for candy floss and coconuts.
Ferndale is a community primary school where we aim to engage with local residents and bring people together as much as possible. As you can imagine summer term is very busy in schools, and this term has been no different. As we prepare to say goodbye to our Year 6 children and welcome our new Reception children we have still had lots to celebrate.
We had the younger children catching bubbles to the music as the older ones geared up for the inflatable obstacle course. Parents were enjoyed a cool drink as their children explored police cars and fire engines. The biggest draw as always, were the stalls run by the children through our Dragon’s Den competition, one in particular, soak the teacher (and Headteacher!) was very popular.
We have just had our annual Summer Carnival, which was extremely successful.
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Our incredibly supportive Friends of Ferndale team have raised a lot of money for the school and we really appreciate all the time and effort they put in.
We have also had another very successful Sports Week with the World Cup as our focus. The children enjoyed playing their own tournament rounded off by a very tense match against the staff! Luckily it was a draw. They also got to sample many different sports such as American football, rugby, street dance, tae-kwon-do etc. They all had a brilliant week. A big thanks to Miss Horrobin and Mr Allen for organising the numerous events.
“We look forward to bringing you news of all our future events.”
ANYTHING SWINDON
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TEL:01793 340065
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