September 2016 A4 digital version

david walliams gangsta granny

charlie nesbitt

motostar double win

greenbridge road works!

WIN CINEMA & wildcats TICKETS man of the year

slimming world

ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 03

09 Our very own Ian Butler picking up his very deserved ‘Man of the Year’ award at his local Slimming World group.

22 Charlie Nesbitt has further extended his lead in the 2016 HEL Motorstar season.

17 Gangsta Granny Q and A session with David Walliams.

18 WIFI Wars!

06 Greenbridge Roadworks Major improvement works to the Greenbridge roundabout junction are well underway.

09 Ian loses over 8 Stone!

Our very own Ian shares his superb success with Slimming world.

10 Drove Vets and SNdogs Our monthly update for your pets.

28

12 Empire Movies

Swindon couple set to graduate from school of fostering.

15 Anyone for Squash?

The latest releases coming to IMAX this month.

Upgraded Squash courts at the Oasis are finally completed

16 Community News Local news from the local community.

PAGE 04

Q and A with Rob Sedgebeer.

19 Four Sunsets Escape to paradise this September.

22 Charlie Nesbit Our latest update on this up and coming Motostar!

25 Competions Win tickets to the movies and see the Wildcats in action.

28 Fostering in Swindon A great story from a couple looking to foster in Swindon.

3 1 Robert Buckland Anything Swindon catch up with Robert Buckland Conservative MP for South Swindon.

Graham

Ian

Welcome to the first copy of the new look Anything Swindon Magazine.

Since the birth of the Anything Swindon Magazine in 2014 we have dedicated the pages to good local, informative and readable content. We also provide an excellent selection of local businesses and services advertising their current campaigns to you the potential customer.

We deliver to 25,000 homes and businesses every month striving to ensure the best quality magazine is on time to homes across South and East Swindon using our own dedicated team of distributors.

Our new look A4 magazine features some great news and stories this month, including an update regarding our very own Ian Butler who you; our readers have followed throughout his Slimming world journey. Having lost 8 Stone in just 9 and half months, Ian got nominated for the national semi-finals of The Man Of The Year.

We also have an update from Swindon’s very own British Moto star rider Charlie Nesbit who currently stands 126 points clear of his nearest rival in his quest to become British Moto Star Champion. Read our interview with David Walliams who’s Gangsta Granny book will be brought to life on the stage at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre TUE 27 SEPT SAT 1 OCT. Another new addition to the magazine will include updates from Swindon Highways department as we learn more about existing and upcoming improvements to our roads, starting this month with an update from the Greenbridge roundabout improvements.

Please enjoy this month’s edition and feel free to send in your community news and stories of success.

Could you benefit from advertising your business or service? Anything Swindon Magazine is Swindon’s most cost-effective marketing platform with rates as low as £30.00 per month achieving an estimated readership of more than 70’000 people of all ages across both paper and online e-magazine.

Questions and feedback: Unit 73 BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN2 2PJ Phone: 01793 977117 Email: info@anythingswindon.co.uk Online: www.anythingswindon.co.uk Designed & Printed: Screaming Media Ltd www.screamingmedia.co.uk Readership: 75,000 Circulation: 25,000 Online View: 15,000 per month

Follow us on Social Media: facebook.com/anythingSwindon @anythingswindon

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).

Where else could you reach 25’000 properties from £30.00 per month?

Happy reading,

Graham and Ian. ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 05

GREENBRIDGE ROUNDABOUT IMPROVEMENTS

2

3

4 6 4

4

1

6 2

1 4

5 1

1 1

2 5

2 3 4 5 6

Greenbridge Taking Shape Major improvement works to the Greenbridge roundabout junction are well underway and are part of a programme to improve major routes into the town to keep pace with the future development of the New Eastern Villages. When complete early next year, the improvement works will see an increase in lanes around the roundabout, entry and exit routes widened, and traffic signals installed on all approaches. There will also be additional pedestrian and cycle crossings, and a new exit from the Greenbridge retail park to reduce traffic on the roundabout.

The £5.3m project, which is being carried out by Wills Bros Civil Engineering Ltd on behalf of Swindon Borough Council, is necessary to relieve a peak-time bottleneck and improve road links towards the east of Swindon, where 8,000 new homes, a district centre, new schools and employment for up to 4,000 people will be created over the next 15 years as part of the Eastern Villages expansion.

The works are being planned to minimise disruption to road users, residents and businesses. Lane restrictions have been limited between the hours of 9.30am to 3.30pm to avoid peak time traffic. Cllr Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council Cabinet member for Sustainability and Transport said: “We must learn the lessons of the last thirty years because for too PAGE 06

long Swindon has grown without having a detailed programme of road improvements to enable our roads to cope with extra traffic. This is why I have ensured Swindon has a ten-year road improvement plan and, with the Government committing more than £40m two years ago, we are making it happen.

“The £5.3m Greenbridge roundabout improvements mark the next project to move ahead, and every penny is paid for by housing developers and the Government. If the work isn’t done then congestion in this area will become severe because the existing roundabout design simply won’t be able to cope with the predicted traffic at rush hour.

“The M4 junctions are due to be upgraded, and in 2018/19 a brand new road from the A420 to Commonhead will go ahead.

It is improvements like these that will be crucial in keeping Swindon moving and help our town avoid the rush hour gridlock that neighbouring cities like Bristol, Bath and Oxford experience every day.”

More information about the project is available at www.swindon.gov.uk/nev Queries from residents will be dealt with by phone via the Council’s contact centre on 01793 445500, or by e-mail to greenbridge@swindon.gov.uk M4 Junction 16 improvement works to start shortly, the multi-million transfor-

mation of Junction 16 of the M4 is due to start in the next few weeks. The project is being funded by Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) and the Wichelstowe development. It is being delivered by Swindon Borough Council in partnership with Highways England and Wiltshire Council.

The redesign of the motorway junction is being carried out to ensure it can cope with both future traffic levels and housing development in the surrounding area.

Approximately 5,500 vehicles an hour currently use Junction 16 at morning and evening peak times and this is expected to rise by more than 50 per cent over the coming years.

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.

Some of the vegetation around the junction has already been removed in recent weeks prior to the start of the major works.

For more information about work affecting Swindon’s highways network and for roadworks in your area subscribe to Highways News at: www.swindon.gov.uk/newsletter

For more information or to book tickets please call the booking line on 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 07

live happy! with

Slimming World save

up to TUESDAYS 7.30PM Westlea Primary School Langstone Way Swindon, SN5 7BT Contact Georgie 07500 970751

£5

– ask in group for more details

TUESDAYS 7.30PM Lydiard Tregoze Primary School, Sleaford Close SN5 6JU Contact Chris 07710 527719 WEDNESDAYS 5.30PM Central Community Centre Emlyn Square SN1 5BP Contact Lou 07784 098022 SATURDAYS 8AM, 10AM or 12PM Freahbrook Community Centre Worsley Road SN5 8LY Contact Lou 07784 098022 WEDNESDAYS 5.30pm and 7.30pm St Francis school Aiken road, SN25 1UH Contact Heather 07816 860840 FRIDAYS 9.30Am and 11.30am Redhouse Community Centre Frankel avenue SN25 2NJ Contact Heather 07816 860840

NOW RECRUITING FOR JANUARY OPENINGS

A fun and rewarding role with flexible hours.

Please email slimmingworldlou@gmail.com for more information.

PAGE 32 PAGE 08

visit the website to read Emma’s story slimmingworld.co.uk 0344 897 8000

Ian scores meeting with football star after losing over 8st!

Anything Swindon’s very own Ian Butler has hit the back of the net after reaching the semi-finals of a competition to find the UK and Ireland’s top male slimmers, where he met footballing legend Dion Dublin.

Ian Butler was one of just 32 men to win a place at the semi-finals of Slimming World’s Man of the Year 2016 competition after losing an impressive 8st 0.5lb. It was there that he was congratulated by former Coventry, Aston Villa and Leicester City star Dion.

Ian, who slimmed from 20st 1lb to 12st 0.5lb, believes it can be hard for men to admit that they need help to lose weight, and that it is especially difficult for them to walk through the doors of a slimming club for the first time. He said: “When men think about losing weight it usually involves hitting the gym or trying to eat less without really telling anyone. Joining Slimming World was a big step for me, I’m so glad I had the courage to walk through those doors though.”

New research backs up Ian’s view, too. A recent study by Slimming World found that 72% of men thought that increasing physical activity was the most socially-acceptable weight-loss method, followed by losing weight on their own (67%) and taking advice from their GP (54%). However, while men are less likely than women to attend slimming groups, research shows that when they do attend they are actually more successful than their female counterparts and they find the

groups to be much more man-friendly than they expected.

Ian continues: “I was a bit worried that I’d end up on a diet of just lettuce, so I couldn’t believe it when I joined Slimming World and my Consultant explained that I could still eat burgers, chips, steaks and curries as long as I made a few healthy swaps in terms of the way I cooked and prepared them. I thought I’d be hungry all the time but it’s been surprisingly easy to follow because I’ve never once felt deprived. I could even still enjoy the odd drink with my mates, which definitely helped too.

“Of course I was worried that as a man I’d stand out like a sore thumb when I first joined! It wasn’t like that at all though; everyone was really supportive and welcoming. All the hints, tips and recipes you pick up in group are really helpful too. You soon come to realise that everyone is in that room for the same reason. I was a bit hesitant to tell my friends I was going to a slimming group in the beginning, by the time they noticed that I was losing weight I had no problem singing Slimming World’s praises though!

It’s even encouraged me to think about how active I am too, so I’ve joined a gym. My son is a keen U9s footballer so I now coach his team. I jumped at the chance to help youngsters become more active because I now know how important it is to have a healthy lifestyle.

“When I first started losing weight I had no idea I’d end up at the semi-finals of a national competition. I’ve been overwhelmed by the stories of the other finalists and meeting Dion made it all the better as I’ve got a great story to tell my mates now.”

Dion, who has now hung up his football boots to present hit daytime TV show Homes under the Hammer, was blown away by the achievements of the men he met at the competition.

He says: “Health and fitness formed a huge part of my career as a footballer, so I know how much effort and dedication it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It was a pleasure to meet Ian and hear all about his weight loss. He’s taken a really big and important step – a step which a lot of men would find too daunting – I think many people would be guilty of thinking that going to a slimming club isn’t very macho.

It takes a lot to recognise that you have a weight problem and then be brave enough to do something about it – he’s a top man in my book.”

Louise Robins, who runs the Swindon group that Ian attends, says she is very proud of her super slimmer. She says: “A lot of men think that slimming clubs are a woman-only zone, and Ian is living proof that this isn’t the case.

Men need just as much support as women to slim down and improve their health.

I’m so proud of everything Ian has achieved. Slimming World works for everyone, so I hope Ian inspires lots of other men in Swindon who’d like to lose weight to take that step and join our group at Central Community Centre or call me on 07784 098022.”

Unfortunately, Ian was not the overall winner of the competition. The title was taken by Danny Crosby, from Altrincham, who has lost 8st.

PAGE 09

Drove Vets The Danger of Bones!

Are bones dangerous?

That question is uppermost in many owners’ minds. The answer is …possibly yes. Everyone associates dogs with bones, and many dogs will regularly be given bones without any apparent problems however, every time we give our pets a bone we could be putting them at risk.

There are many different types of bones that dogs have access to through their owners or through scavenging which can include marrowbones, lamb bones, beef rib bones and chicken bones. Chicken bones are particularly dangerous as they produce sharp spicules when crunched and can cause significant damage to the gut.

However, some people feed raw bones to their dogs. Raw meat bones are generally enjoyed by your pet dog and can provide mental stimulation and exercise the muscles of the jaw.

They can also be useful in cleaning their teeth, reducing tartar and associated gum disease. In addition, the marrow present in raw bones contains valuable nutrients, in addition to the calcium in the bones themselves.

However, there are a number of potential issues with raw bones but the key is to recognise a ‘safe’ bone from one that isn’t suitable for your dog, bones such as cooked chicken, pork, lamb

or beef rib bone can be dangerous. Marrow bones on the other hand are very thick bones, often with marrow in the middle; they are sturdy and less likely to splinter reducing the risk to your pet. Large knuckle bones are also another type of raw bones to feed your pet dog with a reduced risk.

Even though bones can have a positive they can also pose a negative affect too.

They unfortunately can cause upset stomachs and intestines, (which sometimes occur just because the bone is a richer food than the dog is used to); we regularly see problems when bones have been swallowed.

A crunched up bone which passes through the stomach and small intestine can harden in the large gut causing severe constipation problems and a larger piece of bone such as a beef rib or lamb when swallowed whole can gut stuck either part way down the oesophagus (the oesophagus lies between the mouth and the stomach), in the stomach or in the small intestine. Any such obstruction will cause the dog to be seriously unwell with repeated vomiting and sometimes diarrhoea, and usually will require surgical removal.

Dogs are not designed to deal with cooked bones.

Cooked bones are harder, more brittle and more likely to splinter than raw bones.

They are the ones most likely to be caught in the mouth, to pierce the intestines, to set like concrete in the large bowel, or stick like fish hooks into the rectum.

All those events are bad news for dogs. The long and the short of it is…

DON’T FEED YOU DOG COOKED BONES! they are not a necessary part of your pets stable diet requirements and could put your pet at risk unnecessarily.

If you have any worries or concerns about topics raised in this article, please don’t hesitate to contact your local Vet for advice.

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE: (01793) 522483

www.drovevets.co.uk PAGE 10

DOG OF THE MONTH SOL SOL could do with some socialising as he doesn’t understand ‘no’ in dog language . Because of this he can get over excited and upset other dogs in the process - we are working with him on walks so he is calmed around strange dogs.

Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)

SNDOGS update Back at the end of July, we were approached by two groups of young people aged 16 & 17 years who were on the National Citizenship Scheme (NCS.) NCS is a government run project for young people to gain new experiences and skills that be used in life.

As part of their two social action weeks, they had to fundraise and promote a local charity and they chose SNDogs!

Over the two weeks (in sunshine and pouring rain) they baked and sold cakes in Swindon Town Centre, The Orbital Shopping Centre and Nationwide as well as doing two lots of bag pack ing in M&S (town centre branch) – and walked around Coate Water Park raising money!

Sol isn’t sure about how stairs work so may need some practice. We feel he needs to be cat tested at a later date when he is more settled in his foster home. Although he didn’t jump into the car boot we think with less distractions he would jump in very quickly, not that you can tell when he’s lying down which he is doing alot at the moment as he isn`t used to being walked. If you can give SOL a home please email: sndrescue@gmail.com We also had a donation of £25 from a young lady called Olivia who did the most kind thing and donated some of her 11th Birthday money to SNDogs, her mum then doubled the donation to £50 – we would like to say a MASSIVE ‘Thank You’ to both! Olivia, her mum, dad and brothers came along to our July dog walk at Coate Water so we could thank them in person. (pictured SNDog Volunteer Claire and SNDog – Poppy with Olivia and her mum) SNDogs were invited to go along to John Lewis @ Home in Swindon to collect a cheque for £840 which was raised through their Community Matters (Green Token Campaign). SNDogs spent an enjoyable few hours at the store, eating cake and talking about the Charity to members of the John Lewis team. Thank You to John Lewis and all the people who voted for us!

Registered Charity No. 1163257 SNDogs (Saving Needy Dogs)

Trustee SNDogs stands for “Saving Needy Dogs” and that pretty much sums up what we do!

We are a registered charity based in Swindon and we care for and find loving homes for dogs in need. We don’t use cages or kennels; all of our dogs stay with foster carers in their homes and become a temporary but much loved member of the family until they are adopted.

A rewarding voluntary position has now arisen for new Trustees who share our values to join our existing Trustees. You will help ensure we act in the best interests of our dogs and within statutory and charity regulations and guidelines.

We are particularly interested in Trustees with the following skills: Legal experience Animal lover, with a particular interest in dogs, and have a passion for their welfare.

Desired qualities:

In total they raised £7650.03! SNDogs went along to a number of the event s with SNDog- Sherrie – we would like to say a HUGE ‘Thank You’ to all the young people who raised money for us.

•

Up and Coming SNDog Events: Saturday 17th September – Foxham Horse and Dog Show, Chippenham Saturday 24th September – Ridgeway 5K Run (Ashbury) Sunday 26th September – Monthly Dog Walk at Coate Water, Swindon Please visit www.sndogs.uk for the full list of events

• • • •

An understanding of the role of a Trustee (Training will be given) Excellent communication skills Enthusiasm Commitment Trustees are expected to commit to attend quarterly Trustees meetings within the Swindon area.

For more information on our charity please visit www.sndogs.uk.

To apply for this role please email a covering letter detailing your experience and reasons for applying to: sndrescue@gmail.com. Mark for the attention of Julia Rodrigues.

Win four tickets to a Film of your choice!

Visit our competition page for more information PAGE 12

Pearce Funeral Services 1 Groundwell Rd, Swindon, SN1 2LT 01793 422422

"The closest Funeral Director to the Register"

 Professionally Qualified  A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved One

 Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available  Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011, In Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service

 Home Visits Available

'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'

Chapel of Rest: 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072

www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk

Pearce Funeral Services 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon, SN3 4NN

01793 832072

Professionally Qualified A Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved One Pre Payment Funeral Plans Available Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011, In Recognition Of Our Quality Of Service

'John (centre), Tracy and David - Here for you when needed most'

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.

92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret, SN3 4NN – 01793 832072 or 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon, SN1 2LT – 01793 422422.

www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 13

The Mysterious ‘Project RMS’

The Project starts this month and will run until Christmas. The first event is a free singing workshop and open rehearsal on Tuesday 27th September where men are welcome to come along and have a ‘taster’ at the Church of Christ the Servant, Elstree Way, Abbey Meads, Swindon from 7.30pm. Even for those who are lucky enough to get places on Project RMS, there is no obligation to join the Choir full time.

For weeks now, people locally have been receiving You can find out more information about Project RMS at: e-mails and posts on social media about the mysterious www.realmensing.co.uk or you can register interest by ‘Project RMS’ simply saying that the project would be starting soon. However, the Adver can finally reveal that calling 01793 772359. Places on the Project are limited.

Project RMS is all about getting men into singing. The ‘RMS’ stands for ‘Real Men Sing’ and it is the idea of three singers with Swindon’s Wessex Male Choir.

Project RMS is offering men the chance to take part in a series of fun events ranging from joining-in a flashmob, to singing at a military base (and getting close-up to some military hardware), to singing on the pitch at Wembley in front of 80,000 fans, and performing a few numbers with the Choir in a concert.

With an increasing number of studies telling of the health benefits of singing, the Project not only offers men a chance to get more out of life, but also promises fun and friendship whilst at the same time chalking-up some truly memorable experiences.

The Choir’s Chairman Guy Edwards says: “This is an amazing opportunity for men to experience at first-hand what it’s like to sing with a top amateur choir.

So many of our singers wished they had got into singing sooner, so we really hope that men will want to find out what all the fuss is about.”

PAGE 14

‘Wessex Chairman, Guy Edwards is one of the singers behind Project RMS’

S

Squash Anyone?

Swindon Squash players are celebrating after works to upgrade the Squash courts at the Oasis Leisure Centre was finally completed this Summer.

The £25k refurbishment project paid for through funding received from England Squash and GLL has seen all three courts transformed with new floors and walls being installed and the addition of new glass doors.

The new look courts are a much needed boost for local players following the recent closures to the South Marston and Next Generation sites, yet despite these local facility closures Squash is a sport back on the up with the most recent Sport England figures showing it to have one of the biggest increases in participation across all Sports.

A great way to have fun and get active the Oasis Squash Club are hosting a series of events to mark the opening of the new courts which include a Wednesday Mix-In Night; open to men and women of all standards it’s a great way to socialise and meet new players.

The Club is also running a ‘Squash Girls Can’ 8-week coaching programme for female beginner & improvers. Starting in the Autumn the course (part of the National ‘This Girl Can’ campaign) offers ladies the opportunity to either try Squash for the first time or to brush up on existing skills.

The Oasis is also delighted once again to be offering weekly coaching sessions to children following the relocation of the South Marston Junior Squash Club to the Centre.

Following the return to School the popular Junior Club will be increasing the number of weekly sessions it offers, with main group coaching taking place on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoon – all standards catered for from Ages 7+. For

Fun facts about Squash!

Fact 1: In 2003, Forbes rated squash as the number one healthiest sport to play.

Fact 2: The game was formerly called squash racquets, a reference to the “squashable” soft ball used in the game ANYTHING SWINDON

more details on any of the sessions mentioned contact Dax Mellor on 07786 025059 or email dax@topsquash.co.uk

Fact 3: Squash is recognized by the IOC and supporters are lobbying for its incorporation in a future Olympic program.

Fact 4: Squash’s use of stringed racquets is shared with tennis, which dates from the late sixteenth century, though is more

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

directly descended from the game of racquets from England.

Fact 5: Squash was invented in Harrow School out of the older game racquets around 1830 before the game spread to other schools, eventually becoming an international sport.

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 15

Community News EVERYBODY SING LTD Everybody really can Sing!

Swindon’s own Harbour Fest!

A local charity is organising a new multi-cultural arts festival for Swindon this autumn.

Harbour Fest Swindon will run from Thursday 13th to Saturday 15th October - the aim is to bring communities together and raise awareness and funds for the Harbour Project, a Swindon charity which welcomes and supports newly-arrived refugees and asylum-seekers.

The festival will include an opening night of music, song and dance, as well as an ‘undercover’ film-show and disco, band night and pop-up exhibition of art from around the world.

The details are being announced during September, so keep an eye on the festival’s Facebook page or website for all the details - you can even contact them if you want to get involved with the organisation or performing at one of the events. www.harbourproject.org.uk

Regional Event: Old Town Autumn Fayre Venue: Christ Church in Old Town, Swindon Date: 17/09/2016 The Old Town Autumn Fayre is being held on Saturday 17th September from 12 noon till 4pm. The event is free and being held in the grouns of Christ Church and the new Community Centre in Cricklade Street, Swindon, SN1 3HB. The event has stalls, live music, food stalls, vintage swing boats and traditional games for children of all ages.

Swindon Cats Protection is pleased to have a stall at this event and will be selling new goods, 2017 calendars and diaries and quality bric a brac

Spaces currently available for girls aged 5-7 (Rainbows) and 7-10 (Brownies).

We meet in Liden on Monday evenings and are part of Girlguiding.

For further information please contact Unit Leader Jane McDougall on 07963 304154 or email liden.guiding@gmail.com Or you can register your interest via the parent link at www.girlguiding.org.uk

PAGE 16

Do you love to sing? Or would you love to sing but think you can’t? Then there is a music school on your doorstep that is ready to welcome you! Everybody Sing is a family run school, with a lovely, warm, family feel at its heart. Principal and Musical Director of the School, Swindon born Sophie Haynes, believes that singing is a great way to build confidence and that everyone CAN really sing! If you don’t believe it book a lesson and let her prove you wrong!

Based in Old Town, Swindon, Everybody Sing is rapidly becoming a fast growing venture with classes to suit all abilities and ages, from Choirs to Junior and Adult Glee Clubs and Private Singing Lessons to Musical Theatre classes, Baby and Toddler Singing Groups to classes for children ages 4-11 to sing Disney, Musical Theatre and Pop. We specialise in offering singing lessons to people with disabilities or those on the autistic spectrum who want to sing.

We are now taking names for new classes offering specialised singing classes to these people as well as singing classes those retired and a specialised singing class for people suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Students learn in an inclusive environment and, with eleven years of teaching behind her, Sophie’s love and passion for singing and music is passed on to all her students. Sophie is supported by a wonderful vocal coach, Sharon Lloyd who has a wealth of experience both as a singer/performer and as a teacher (particularly having taught people with autism and health conditions).

Sophie’s singing career began at the age of 6, when she began lessons with Swindon’s Kentwood Junior Choir, under the direction of Sheila Harrod and then later under the guidance and training of Janice Thompson. Since then she has taken part in many music festivals and competitions, gaining her Diploma in Musical Theatre with the London College of Music. She continues her own development by attending Vocal Tuition and Workshops with The Voice Explained, under the direction of Anne-Marie Speed, to ensure that each of her students receives the very best in vocal tuition, understands the importance of technique and how to improve their voice whilst staying healthy.

Everybody Sing offers lots of opportunities to perform and compete, for example our choirs have undertaken charity performances at the Christmas Lights switch on and have sung for audiences in various locations including BIRT t(the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust). Students who wish to are encouraged to work towards examinations under the ABRSM or LCM Boards. Sophie also specialises in offering additional support in preparation for students who are going for auditions for Performing Arts Colleges and auditions for Agencies and TV. Workshops are often on offer to children throughout all school holidays and several times a year for adults to attend Master classes or workshops, often delivered by our Patron, Maureen Nolan (the Nolan Sisters) and other West End Stars. The next workshop will be Les Miserable, which takes places in November, and West End Star Nicky Swift, who played Madame Thénardier in the hit London show, will deliver this.

For more information contact Kerry Richings, Director on 07821 493480 or email info@everybody sing. co.uk. Details of all classes can be found at www. everybodysing.co.uk

LONELINESS COULD BE AS DANGEROUS AS SMOKING Researchers at Harvard University have discovered that having no friends could be as deadly as taking up smoking. A link has been found between loneliness and the levels of the blood clotting agent Fibrinogen which can cause heart attacks and stroke. Social isolation is believed to cause an increase of the clotting agent which could lead to higher blood pressure and a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.

It was found in the survey that people with just five others in their social network had 20 per cent higher levels fibrinogen than those with 25. The loss of 10 to 12 friends had the same impact on levels as taking up smoking!

It has been suggested that if there is indeed an independent causal relationship between social isolation and fibrinogen and, subsequently, heart disease and stroke, then improved social connectedness may have health effects, beyond the well-known benefits of improved economic conditions.

It has been suggested by the British Heart Foundation that we cannot conclude definitely from this research that social isolation directly causes heart problems. But the possibility that social factors can affect a protein in our blood, like fibrinogen, is an interesting prospect for further research in this area.”

All the more reason to fight loneliness and isolation by looking out for sufferers and encouraging them to join an organisation like U3A, where companionship and social interaction are key benefits of taking up new interests and sharing them with likeminded friends. Music, exercise, learning of languages, visiting places of interest and many other activities make joining one or more of U3A’s 140+ groups possibly the best thing a retired or semi-retired person could do.

CONNECT WITH PEOPLE - CHALLENGE YOURSELF HELP OTHERS STAY ACTIVE IN MIND AND BODY WITH

G

GANGSTA GRANNY Q What inspired Gangsta Granny?

When I was a child I would spend lots of time with my grandmas. Sometimes I would selfishly think spending time with them could be boring but when I got them on a subject like living in London during World War II when bombs were raining down, they would become very animated and I would be enthralled. I realised everyone has a story to tell.

Q What were your grannies like and are there any elements of their characters in Gangsta Granny?

There was definitely a smell of cabbages in one of my grandmas’ houses. The other did break wind like a duck quacking when she walked across the room.

Q Many people would say there’s a special bond between children and their grandparents, why do you think that is?

I think grandparents love being grandparents because they get to give the children back to the parents!

Children love spending time with their grandparents because they love hearing their stories and being allowed to stay up past their bedtime.

Q When did you decide to write children’s fiction and what encouraged you?

Ten years ago I had an idea for a story. What if a boy went to school dressed as a girl? I thought it would be a thought-provoking children’s book. That became The Boy in the Dress, my first of eight children’s novels.

Q What are the delights of writing children’s fiction?

The only limitation in a children’s book is your imagination. You can take children on magical journeys in books that many adults would be reluctant to go on.

Q And the challenges of writing for children?

Children love to be scared but it can’t be too horrifying. Children love to laugh but it can’t be too rude.

ANYTHING SWINDON

You always have to be the right side of the line.

Q You’ve often talked about Roald Dahl, what do you think makes him special?

I think Dahl’s books always feel a little bit forbidden. He manages to balance the humour and scary elements in his stories perfectly.

Q Which Dahl books do you particularly like and why?

The Twits is utterly hilarious and I love that it is a children’s book with no child characters.

Q Why were you keen to work with Birmingham Stage Company on the adaptation?

Q Which other children’s writers did you enjoy as a child and why?

A I saw their Horrible Histories show which was superb. I loved the humour and the interaction with the audience so look forward to seeing more of that.

I loved Dr Seuss books as a child, especially ‘Green Eggs and Ham’. His books are like nightmares come to life. They are rich and strange and utterly unlike anybody else’s work.

Q What do you think children enjoy in your books?

I imagine they like the humour and that I don’t patronise them. I deal with quite big topics, cross-dressing, homelessness, grief. I know children are a lot smarter than most grownups think. .

Q What are your feelings on seeing Gangsta Granny adapted for the stage?

It’s a huge thrill seeing Gangsta Granny have this whole new life on the stage. It has already been a TV film. People seem to really like the story. In fact Gangsta Granny is my best-selling book by far. And having seen the first night at Birmingham last December I think it’s a brilliant show - better than the book! So do go & see it at the Coventry Belgrade Theatre & see what you think

Q Do you feel there are any particular challenges or difficulties with staging Gangsta Granny?

There is lots of action in Gangsta Granny, especially when they try to steal the Crown Jewels - quite chal lenge for Birmingham Stage Company to bring those scenes to life but they do it so well.

Q Are there any scenes you particularly looked forward to seeing on stage?

I like the characters of Ben’s mum and dad. Their obsession with ballroom dancing is very funny brought to life in the play.

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

Q What do you hope children will take away from watching Gangsta Granny on stage?

The moral of the story is ‘don’t assume old people are boring just because they are old’. In fact they are likely to have had a much more interesting life than yours. Talk to old folk, listen to their stories. They are bound to be full of magic and wonder.

Q In what way do you think experiencing the stage show will differ from their experiences when reading the book?

The great thing about seeing Gangsta Granny on stage is you will get to share it with an audience. So hopefully you will laugh and cry along with everyone else. That’s what makes theatre so special.

Q What do you think are the elements that make up a good theatrical production for children?

Those for children need to be fun and fast-paced which Gangsta Granny certainly is.

Q Strictly Come Dancing raises its head in Gangsta Granny – would you like to be in the show and, if so, how do you rate your hopes of holding the glitter ball?

A I can’t dance at all (as you might have seen in the TV adaptation of Gangsta Granny when I tried to dance with Miranda Hart). So I would say my chances are less than zero!

Showing at The Wyvern Theatre TUE 27 SEPT - SAT 1 OCT Call the box office to book 01793 524481

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 17

WIFI Wars

Featuring in a new BBC Radio 4 documentary about video gaming, While My Guitar Gently Bleeps, and with a TV adaptation of their original live show, Go 8-Bit, to be hosted

by Dara O’Briain and air on UKTV’s entertainment channel Dave this autumn, comedian and regular videogames commentator, Steve McNeil, and his tech wizard side-kick and coding king, Rob Sedgebeer, have announced a UK tour of their exciting new live and interactive show, WiFi Wars. We sat down with Rob Sedgebeer to discuss the show in more detail…

1. Tell us, why should people come to a WiFi Wars show?

4. Can you explain how the audience gets involved in WiFi Wars?

The audience connects to our WiFi network using their phone or tablet. From there I can send games and controls to their device, using web based technology. No wizard magic required!

5. How does the show differ from other live shows out there?

It’s the ultimate in audience interaction. No other live show demands you keep your mobile phone switched on!

6. What excites you most about the show?

To come and play a range of fun video games with the rest of the audience, using the latest smart phone technology. With the added bonus of watching two sweaty men panic on stage.

It’s an entirely new form of live entertainment. We get to build and play video games with huge numbers of people in a way that has never been done before.

2. How did you meet Steve McNeil and how did the idea for the show come about?

7. Do you have to have pre-existing knowledge of both gaming and technology to enjoy the show?

I’ve been going to live comedy for over twenty years and my girlfriend, a fellow comedy fan, introduced me to Steve and his sketch partner, Sam Pamphilon. I offered them my tech for their Go 8 Bit live show and became part of the team.

Absolutely not! The tech is basically a means to an end, in that it allows us to build games that we can all play together. Forget for a moment that we’re talking about video games, and imagine instead, that we’re using other forms of multi-player games; board games, card games, or sports games. Imagine a massive footie game. With hundreds of players and multiple balls.

It would be absolute chaos, but so much fun. That’s our show, as that’s what the tech let us do. But with loads more different games.

Somewhere along the way the Royal Institution mistook us for actual scientists and asked us to give a talk about the technology used in the show, which is how WiFi Wars came about.

3. What’s the dynamic like between the two of you in/out of the show?

Outside the show, Steve does all the admin work, I do all the coding.

During the show, Steve does the talking, I do the buttons. It’s a fair division of labour.

PAGE 18

8. Go 8-Bit was your original live comedy gaming show that has been commissioned as a TV series on Dave to air this autumn. How is the TV series similar/different to WiFi Wars?

Go 8 Bit is all about watching beloved comedians making fools of

themselves playing classic video games. The audience do get to play along with a few games, but in WiFi Wars they get to play ALL the games. It’s a much more interactive show.

9. Tell us about your upcoming world record attempt due to take place on 22nd July at the London Royal Institution…

We’re going to attempt to break the world record for the most number of people playing a single game of Pong. We met Kriss Akabusi at the recent Go 8 Bit TV recordings, so hopefully Steve picked up some hints and tips. Or at least a cheat code.

Tickets for WIFI WARS are available at venue box offices and through Ticketmaster. For a full list of tour dates please check wifiwars.co.uk

PLAY’S DEBUT BRINGS THE BALI SUNSHINE TO SWINDON Escape to paradise this September as TS Theatre Productions present a brand new and original play by local writer Peter Hynds.

Amid white sands, crystal clear waters and stunning scenery, Four Sunsets tells the tale of four friends who seek out paradise for the holiday of a lifetime. As the prospect of returning to reality starts to dawn, the girls find their world turned brutally upside-down and their strength and loyalty tested beyond measure.

Wine and cocktails a-plenty, holiday shenanigans, talk of the male anatomy and the true meaning of friendship.

‘This is a beautiful play and anyone who has a friend they love should take them to see it.’ Sarah Felstead, Theatre reviewer.

Book your tickets now for a great night out with the girls!

In preparation for their performance at Swindon Arts Centre this September, the cast of Four Sunsets by TS Theatre stopped for a round of sunset cocktails at Kenzo 72 in Old Town. Lounge Bar and Restaurant Kenzo 72, which brings a touch of exotic style to Swindon, was more than happy to welcome the cast for a round of cocktails to get them in the mood for their rehearsal that evening.

Four Sunsets is at Swindon Arts Centre on Sat 17 September. For more information and to book tickets, visit swindontheatres.co.uk or call Ticket Office on 01793 524481. Special rate of just £8.00 available for groups of 8+ when you book through the Ticket Office.

ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 19

HHHH THE TIMES

HHHHH SUNDAY EXPRESS

HHHH DAILY MAIL

Scamp Theatre and Freckle Productions present

HHHHH ‘WONDERFULLY EXUBERANT & IMAGINATIVE! TIME OUT - CRITICS’ CHOICE

Stick Man © 2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.

Based on the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo

SUN 2 OCT

BOOK ONLINE: swindontheatres.co.uk Ticket Office: 01793 524481

NOT JUST FOR SUNDAYS Swindon Evangelical church visit us at SWEC.ORG.UK

Laytons limos is a family run business from Swindon offering the ultimate VIP experience in travel needs. Whether it be a day at the races or a party out of town with friends. Travel in style at a price you will also be amazed with. We offer a best price guarantee for all wedding packages and prom bookings. We have the latest model limousines which can carry between 8-13 passengers. If a limo is not what your after then be chauffeured with fully checked drivers in our fleet of brand new Mercedes or range rovers. Visit www.laytonslimos.co.uk or call our sales line on 07554 307755 ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 21

Charlie Nesbitt NESBITT DOMINATES CADWELL PARK WITH DOUBLE WIN!

Charlie Nesbitt has further extended his lead in the 2016 HEL Performance British Motostar Championship by taking victories in both races at Cadwell Park over the recent Bank Holiday weekend. Having won the last eight consecutive races with ‘double victories’ at Snetterton, Thruxton, Brands Hatch and now Cadwell Park, Charlie stands 126 points clear of his nearest rival in his quest to become British Motostar Champion.

Once again starting from pole position, Charlie made another good start to race two and led the race at the completion of the opening lap; extending his advantage over the chasing pack lap-by-lap to take a comfortable lights to flag victory by over six seconds. The next round takes place at Oulton Park over the weekend of 9-11 September.

Photographs: Bonnie Lane

Having arrived at the circuit in the small hours of Saturday morning, Charlie soon got down to business by topping the free practice session with almost two seconds in hand.

Unfortunately Charlie slipped off during a wet opening qualifying session, but took control of the final qualifying session by taking a strong pole position, three-quarters of a second clear of the field.

In the early stages of race one, Dani Saez and Ed Rendell were ahead of him, but Charlie moved to the front on lap two and built a small advantage. Controlling the race from his pit board he increased his pace in the latter stages to take the chequered flag by just over two seconds.

PAGE 22

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

Colouring Competition

PAGE 24

Win a Family ticket to a Family film of your choice!

To win the tickets, please tell us when the new animated film “Storks” starts at the Empire Imax at Greenbridge?

There is a clue on the Empire movie update on page 12. Please email your answer to us or visit our facebook page and share the competition post and like the page. Email entry’s to win@anythingswindon.co.uk

Win tickets to see The Swindon Wildcats!

To win the tickets, Who are Swindon Wildcats playing on Sat 24 September 2016? There is a clue on the page below. Please email your answer to us or visit our facebook page and share the competition post and like the page. Email entry’s to win@anythingswindon.co.uk

Win £20 Toys R Us gift voucher!

To win, please get your children to colour in the picture on the left. Please email your entry to us or visit our facebook page, share the competition post and like the page. Email entry’s to win@anythingswindon.co.uk

UP AND COMING HOME FIXTURES: Check The Wildcats site for more info: swindonwildcats.com

Sat 17 Sep 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL- Cup Swindon Wildcats v Manchester Phoenix Sat 24 Sep 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup Swindon Wildcats v Telford Tigers Sat 01 Oct 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup Swindon Wildcats v Bracknell Bees Sat 08 Oct 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup Swindon Wildcats v Peterborough Phantoms Sat 15 Oct 5:45pm Swindon Ice Arena - EPIHL - Cup Swindon Wildcats v Hull Pirates

WIN TICKETS TO THE WILDCATS! SEE ABOVE...

ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 25

£40

Regular lawn mowing from ÂŁ12 per visit

01793 477800

GardenRoomSwindon.co.uk Commercial grass cutting services also available.

Chestnut Clinic - Swindon

GAR_697653.pdf 13:49:24 January 15, 2014 1 of 2 Sarah

Physical Therapy &

Acupuncture Specialists

NINJUTSU

Practical & effective self defense designed for one purpose

TO KEEP YOU SAFE

Find out today how we can solve your aches and pains www.amatsuswindon.com

077 7

F

FOSTERING SWINDON Swindon couple set to graduate from school of fostering with flying colours - and you can to.

When Anthony and Michael help to pack the car of a happy 17-year-old ready for the start of university life, it will be an especially emotional farewell. That’s because they have been his devoted foster carers for the past four and half years and cannot quite believe how much he has grown up.

Anthony Purcell, aged 38, said: “He has changed so much and really matured.

There’s such an exciting, promising future ahead of him and it feels very special to have played a part in creating that. We’ve all become so close, I doubt we’ll be able to stop crying when he sets off.”

Anthony has been together with Michael for the past nine years. They both liked children and felt they wanted to help someone less fortunate than themselves. He said: “We couldn’t have our own kids obviously, but still had this urge to nurture and care for someone. At first we didn’t know whether being gay would stop us being eligible to foster but after enquiring, we soon realised this wasn’t the case. It has never been an issue and we’ve always felt so welcome and supported.”

Another concern for the couple, who live in Ferndale, was whether they could both continue working full-time, which again didn’t prove a problem at all.very supportive in allowing us to attend certain meetings, but it’s just like with all children – you learn to juggle things.”

The couple soon realised what a fortunate upbringing they had experienced and were determined to share that.

Anthony said: “He had never been abroad on holiday before so seeing that gleeful excitement about us taking him was just wonderful. It’s lovely to be able to help someone feel wanted and special.”

PAGE 28

Over the years, the couple have also shared all sorts of skills such as cooking and budgeting – all of which will come in handy, when he starts life as a student. His career prospects are looking equally bright.

Anthony said: “He did very well in his exams and is off to study aeronautical engineering. We’re both so proud – the sky really is the limit for him now. Although we’ll miss having him around so much, it’s also so satisfying to see him spread his wings. Fostering has definitely enriched our lives and been such a rewarding journey – I would highly recommend it.”

The Council needs foster carers for children of all ages with placements lasting anything from a few days to many years. Your sexuality, age, marital status and whether or not you have children of your own are no barriers to fostering.

Carers receive payment and allowances to help cover their time and expenses, including extra money to help with the cost of holidays, birthdays and Christmas.

For more information please call (01793) 464329, email fosteringrecruitment@swindon.gov.uk or go online at www.swindon.gov.uk/fostering

1.

2.

3.

Churchfields Academy Inspiring and Creating Futures For All

We are an 11-16 secondary in Old Walcot, Swindon We believe that within each child there is massive potential to achieve and that as teachers, it is our job to ensure that this potential is met through academic studies, creativity and a desire to believe in yourself.

Tours can be set up at any time for students wishing to transfer from Primary or another Secondary Call 01793 487286 www.churchfields.org

Eion E R F sultat Con

Home Design, Architecture, Planning, Drawings, Building Regulations, 3D Visuals, Marketing + more... single storey Ben Williams 01793 920265

ben@benwill.co.uk

extension designed from

ÂŁ299

Local Citizens advice offices report increase in queries on intestate wills Talk to Nigel Schofield of Farsight Wills Ltd at 26 Commercial Road, Swindon and put your executed will in place and your mind at rest.

Tel: 01793 433705 Citizens advice have reported that the number of queries on intestate wills – which is the term for those of us who die without making a will – has doubled in number over the last 5 years.

The calls highlight the complex and sometimes distressing situations families find themselves in when their loved one dies without a will. Along with registering the death and organising the funeral the family of the bereaved finds themselves with some practical problems to deal with.

Access to bank accounts, and finances is an obvious issue. Bills will still need to be paid and in the short term funeral costs paid for.

The obvious consequence of not making a will is, of course, the distribution of your assets. So you may think, these assets will go to my spouse and my children anyway. What you may not have thought about is the impact of it falling on your family to pay increased inheritance tax as a result.

So, making a will now, even if you want to change it at a later date, is vital if you want to mitigate the suffering your family experiences, should the worse happen. Contact us at 26 Commercial Road, Swindon, SN1 5NS OR on 01793 433705 alternatively log on to our website at www.farsightwills.com.

As well as Wills and Trusts we are also able to advise on Lasting Power of Attorney, Pre-paid Funeral Plans and Estate administration / Probate.

All initial meetings are free of charge as are all home visits.

Farsight Wills Ltd 26 Commercial Road, Swindon, SN1 5NS 01793 433705 PAGE 30

info@farsightwills.com

R Robert Buckland

Anything Swindon catch up with Robert Buckland Conservative MP for South Swindon.

Robert Buckland MP calls for support for Swindon Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis collections

Robert Buckland MP encourages students to take advantage of free lectures

Robert Buckland MP is calling for people to support the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis with store and street collections.

Robert Buckland MP is encouraging students who are interested in a career in engineering, technology and aviation to take advantage of free lectures at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham.

The charity, which first formed in 1981, offers therapies, advice and support to MS people and their families in Swindon and the local area and is the only centre of its kind within a 35-mile radius of Swindon.

Sarah Heppenstall, Community Fundraiser for the group said: “Previous store and street collections in and around Swindon have been very worthwhile and a valuable source of income for our centre. They enable us to continue to offer support and valuable services to our members.

“We have a number of collections coming up in both stores and streets covering a large area, so we are looking for many people to help with these collections.

Robert Buckland MP said: The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis plays an invaluable role in the local community and is a lifeline for its many members and their families.

“If you have family and friends that could give up an hour of their time, please do get in touch with the centre.”

You can contact the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis on 01793 481700 or by emailing: stcswindon@btconnect.com

The Defence Academy and Swindon Branch of the Royal Aeronautical Society have delivered high quality lecture programmes featuring aeronautical, science and engineering related topics for over sixty years and are keen to offer young people the opportunity to attend lectures for free as the 2016/2017 programme gets underway.

Lectures are set at the same complexity as the BBC Horizon programmes and provide a unique viewpoint of aviation-related operational, engineering and developmental issues.

Robert Buckland MP said: “I would encourage anyone under the age of 18 who is interested in a career in engineering, technology and aviation to take advantage of the free lectures on offer at the Defence Academy.

“With such a diverse range of subjects on offer, interest in and regular attendance at Royal Aeronautical Society activities is a fantastic way to enhance both CVs and Job/University applications.”

Under 18’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (also free entrance). For further details, please contact the Defence Academy and Swindon Royal Aeronautical Society by email raeswindon@gmail.com or Phone: 07740 136609.

The 2016/17 programme offers a diverse range of subjects, including the experiences of a Concorde test pilot; behind the scenes of the Red Arrows; aircraft crash investigations; Photon Power – the rise and rise of laser technology; the Clean Sky JTI – the next generation of civil aircraft; and the RAF’s procurement of the Boeing P-8 Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

“We have a number of collections coming up in both stores and streets covering a large area”

Twitter: @robertbuckland Facebook: facebook.com/robertbucklandmp

Or you can contact my Swindon Office: Tel: 01793 533393 Email: robert.buckland.mp@parliament.uk

ANYTHING SWINDON

WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK

TEL: 01793 977117 ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM ONLY £40 PER MONTH

PAGE 31

indon

NEW LOOK

HAVELOCK SQUARE Business Improvement District

SATURDAY’S

See entertainers, shows, crafts, balloon twisting, games, face painting and lots more, with different activities taking place from 11am to 4pm.

...start your adventure here!

MEET THE MAD HATTER …the King of Tea Parties!

MEET MAJOR K

...the explorer!

RAZY

Saturday 10th September Major Krazy will be tracking down the very rare WooWoo bird! Plus watch out, as he shows you his prized possession, an ancient and mysterious key he found, when exploring deep in the Amazon!

Join him for some creepy crawlie fun!

Saturday 17th September The Mad Hatter will delight you with his quirky banter and add a mischievous air to any “tea party”.

Have you seen Alice? You’ll need to help the Mad Hatter on the search for his friend and decorate some cupcakes!

Are you up to the challenge?

R

ROFESSO

P MEET THE

…the Mad Scientist!

Saturday 24th September Stand by for madcap experiments as the Professor mixes and mingles armed with his health and safety warning tape, demonstrating his latest invention, the Brain-O-Matic! He is also an awesome balloon twister, robot maker and has a few silly magic tricks up his sleeve!

For all the latest Town Centre news, offers and events, please visit: www.swindontowncentre.co.uk Telephone: (01793) 485523 Email: info@inswindon.com inSwindon @inSwindon @inswindon inswindon

i

Swindon College

It’s not too late to apply!

Start this September 2016 Full-Time & Part-Time Courses University Level Courses Apprenticeships Apply TODAY at www.swindon.ac.uk (01793) 491591 * Studentservices@swindon.ac.uk S w i n d o n S w i n d o n ,

C o l l e g e ,

N o r t h

W i l t s h i r e ,

S N 2

S t a r 1 D Y

A v e n u e ,

@ www.swindon.ac.uk

Anything Swindon Magazine is Swindon’s most cost-effective high impact marketing platform with advertising opportunities starting from as little as £30.00 per month.

Delivered to homes in Covingham, Coleview, Nythe, Old Walcott, The Lawns, Old Town, Wroughton, Wichelstowe, Rodbourne Cheney, Upper Stratton and Lower Stratton.

• 25’000 delivered every month to homes and businesses across the East and south of Swindon.

• Free online advert link on our website with every advert. (see www.anythingswindon. co.uk) • Free business directory listing on our brand new website Anything Swindon Connect, giving every client their very own unique profile which allows your customers to leave a review of your services. (see www.anythingswindonconnect.com)

• With our team of distributors delivering every month with no outsourcing of delivery services, we know that your advert is delivered to your potential new customers every month.

• Free editorial space to accompany your advert to give an in depth description of your services without trying to fill too much information into your ad space. (T’s & C’s apply.)

• 50% more affordable to advertise than other local publications.

Call Graham or Ian today for more information about advertising with Anything Swindon Magazine.

Telephone - 01793 977117 or email info@anythingswindon.co.uk Find us online at www.anythingswindon.co.uk PAGE 34

£10 FREE

*

TANNING CREDIT *ADDED AS ACCOUNT CREDIT

44 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

WHEN YOU

TOPUP

£30

*

HEAD TURNER MEETS HEART STOPPER

The new Lexus RC F Born on the hairpins and curves of the Fuji Speedway.

Tuned to perfection to perform on the road. Naturally aspirated, hand-built 5.0-litre V8 with 477 DIN hp.

Bespoke interior with precision instruments, beautifully crafted sports seats and refinement in every detail.

This is race-tuned luxury by Lexus.

LEXUS SWINDON Paddington Drive, Swindon SN5 7SB 01793 881188

RC F www.swindon.lexus.co.uk

RC F prices start from £59,995. Model shown is RC F £60,620, including optional metalic paint at £625.

The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results. They are provided for comparability purposes, and may not reflect actual driving experience. RC F fuel consumption and CO2 figures: urban 17.5 mpg (16.1 l/100km), extra-urban 36.2 mpg (7.8 l/100km), combined 26.2 mpg (10.8 l/100km), 251g/km CO2 (37% BIK)