The Swindonian Feb 2019

Contents It’s February already!!

The first month of 2019 is over and all those resolutions have been broken already, how many days did you manage to give up the junk food / alcohol / ciggies for? Well if your New Year’s vow was to keep fit we have a couple of opportunities for you to do so this month. Head on over to pages 16 & 17 and have a read about how you can join in the Mad March Hare next month or the Westonbirt 10k in May. This month is all about Valentine’s Day and if you are wondering why we celebrate the day each year and how it all began head on over to page 6.

Dave Franklin shares his recent interview with the new and exciting voice coming out of the USA, Marieme, and also gives us his view on the local gigs to get out and see with his usual Musical Musings whilst Ben Thomas focuses on the ‘comedic banquet’ coming to Swindon this month.

There is some exciting news for speedway fans with the legend that is Jason Doyle signing on to ride as a Robin once again for the forthcoming season, you can check out the news over on page 22.

With this being the shortest month of the year it will not be long before I am sitting down writing the comments for the March magazine, if you have any event you want adding into the calendar or have any local community news you want featuring in the magazine and online then drop an email over to getintouch@theswindonian.co.uk

6 Do you know how Valentine’s Day began?

Find out more about why we celebrate it.

Are you looking to expand your friendship circle?

Why not see how Swindon IVC can help.

6 8 11

The King of the Jungle is paying a visit to Swindon.

Have you got your tickets?

14

Did you know there were new driving laws introduced for 2019!

11

16/17 Have you stuck to your

keep fit resolution? Why not sign up for one of the many runs on offer locally in the coming months.

18/19 Dave Franklin catches up

with the new face in music across the pond.

22 24

Fans favourite and Robins LEGEND Jason Doyle is returning to the Abbey Stadium.

A Swindon mum takes her son on the short trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park

28

Your local councillors share the latest news around the Swindon communities.

34

Where are the happiest countries in the world?

Find out with Alan Trinidad

Find us on Social Media: DESIGNED / PRINTED / DISTRIBUTED BY

TheSwindonian 07717 330400 / 07402 084138 getintouch@theswindonian.co.uk

18/19

24

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

JANUARY Man charged with damaging Cenotaph

Wiltshire Air Ambulance previously shared an MD 902 helicopter with Wiltshire Police up until December 2014, when the force joined the National Police Air Service.

Ashwani Kumar, aged 54, of no fixed address, Swindon has pleaded guilty to outraging public decency and was handed a sentence of eight weeks in jail at Salisbury Magistrate Court after damaging 50 poppy wreaths from the Cenotaph War Memorial on Regent Street.

In addition, the charity’s two Rapid Response Vehicles will continue to be used when it is quicker to travel to an incident by road and for night hours (6pm-3am). They carry the same medical equipment that can be found on-board the helicopter.

It is believed that the offence occurred at around 04:38 on Saturday 12th January.

“This was a mindless act of vandalism and shows complete disregard for those service men and women that have given the ultimate sacrifice in service of this country”

Wiltshire Air Ambulance to resume flying Wiltshire Air Ambulance announced that it resumed flying operations from Friday 11th January through a contingency arrangement with Specialist Aviation Services.

A back-up helicopter (MD 902) will be brought online for day flying (8am-6pm, seven days a week) for the foreseeable future.

4

Work underway on key Town Centre gateway Work to transform Wellington Street, opposite Swindon railway station, to make it more welcoming for residents and visitors begun.

When complete the revamped road will feature a segregated pedestrian and cycle path as well as a new pedestrian crossing.

New paving will be laid and the area will be much more pedestrian-friendly so people will be met with a much more pleasant environment when they step off the train into Swindon.

The contractor Britannia Construction Limited has made great progress this week with the excavation of two areas within the footpath and kerb line on the west side. The work is expected to last four months and the road is closed to all traffic with diversion routes clearly sign posted.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Wyvern Theatre lends its support to council’s fostering campaign The Wyvern Theatre has teamed up with Swindon Borough Council to encourage more people in the town to consider becoming a foster carer.

The Council is currently looking for more foster carers and as part of the campaign, local businesses are being asked to spread the word in any way they can. The Wyvern Theatre has got on board by sending out a dedicated email to their customers, handing out leaflets at pantomime performances and sharing posts on social media.

HMV in administration putting thousands of jobs at risk HMV has gone into administration again.

The music retailer, which has 125 branches nationwide, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, putting 2,200 jobs potentially at risk.

It is the second time in six years HMV has been close to collapse. The store in Swindon, which employs around 16 people on Regent Street, closed temporarily after it fell into administration in January 2013.

However, this time the company have confirmed that they will try to keep the stores open while talks with suppliers take place.

For those interested in finding out more about becoming a foster carer, lots of information is available on the Council’s website (www.swindon.gov.uk/fostering) or call the team for a chat on 07917 503447.

Paul McGowan, the executive chair of HMV and Hilco, said on Friday the decline in the UK CD and DVD market had made the situation impossible.

5

How did Valentine’s Day begin and why do we celebrate it?

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

It’s the ‘most romantic day of the year’ - but why do we all mark it with cards and flowers?

Why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day, why does it fall on February 14, and what’s with all the roses?

Here’s a look back through the history books to find out the real reasons why Valentine’s Day is what it is today - and the background casts a very different light on the event.

How did Valentine’s Day begin?

Valentine’s Day is an old tradition thought to have originated from a Roman Festival known as Lupercalia, according to History.com.

It was held on February 15th as a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture.

During the celebrations boys would draw names of girls from a box and the pair would be partners during the festival.

Who was St. Valentine?

The St. Valentine that inspired the holiday may have been more than one man.

The saint officially recognised by the Roman Catholic Church was a real person who died around AD 270. An account from 1400s describes Valentine as a priest who was beheaded by Emperor Claudius II for helping Christian couples wed.

The emperor had banned marriage as he thought single men made better soldiers.

Valentine felt this was unfair so he celebrated marriages in secret. When the emperor found out he was thrown in jail and sentenced to death.

He may also have been Bishop of Terni, also martyred by Claudius II on the outskirts of Rome. There are similarities between the priest’s and bishop’s stories, which leads people to believe they are the same man.

There’s so much confusion around St. Valentine that the Church stopped veneration of him in 1969 - though he is still listed as an official saint.

“Valentinus” is from the Latin word for worthy, strong or powerful, and was a popular name between the second and eighth centuries AD meaning there are several martyrs with the same name. There are actually a dozen Valentines listed and there’s even a Pope Valentine. The actual day we celebrate is known as St. Valentine of Rome to set him apart.

Valentine did help marry couples in secret, which is arguably very romantic. He is the patron saint of beekeepers and epilepsy among other things, like the plague, fainting and travelling. That doesn’t stop people calling on his help for those romantically involved. He’s now also patron of engaged couples and happy marriages.

6

How did the first Valentines greeting come about One idea is that when he was sent to prison, he sent a letter to a young girl he had fallen in love with and signed it “From your Valentine”. It’s thought this was the first ever Valentine’s Day greeting.

Why is it celebrated on February 14th?

Some believe that Valentine’s Day’s is celebrated mid-February to mark the anniversary of St. Valentine’s death.

It’s thought to have happened in the middle of the month around 270 AD. Others maintain that the Christian church decided to place St. Valentine’s feast day at this time of the year in an effort to ‘Christianise’ the pagan festival of Lupercalia.

Why are roses associated with the day?

Roses have been the symbol of love since the early 1700s when Charles II of Sweden brought the Persian poetical art known as the “language of flowers” to Europe.

Throughout the 18th century, ladies loved their floral dictionaries, which listed the symbolic meanings of different flowers, according to YourTango.com.

The red rose was believed to be the flower favoured by Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love, and has therefore come to represent that.

Why ‘Cupid’?

Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, affection and attraction. He is the son of Venus, goddess of love, and war god Mars.

Cupid in Latin is ‘amor’, which means love.

How did Valentine’s Day become commercial?

It wasn’t until the 18th century that Valentine’s Day took off in England. Lovers began to send trinkets, cards and flowers to their loved ones. A huge amount of printed cards would get sold, then in 1913 Hallmark Cards in Kansas City began mass producing specific Valentine’s Day cards. Now about a billion cards are sold every year and it’s the second biggest card sending time of the whole year.

Why do we sign Valentine’s Day cards anonymously?

Apart from the embarrassment, there was an actual tradition started by the Victorians. They thought it was bad luck to sign the cards with their actual names.

It was also the Victorians that sent roses as they were Venus’ favourite flower.

7

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Get yourself a new lease of social life in 2019 If Friends was the most streamed sit-com in the first quarter of 2018, what will be number one in 2019?

Who knows, but one thing is for certain, real life friends are one of the most important keys to a happy life.

So where should Swindon residents look in 2019, if they want to expand their friendship circle and supercharge their social life?

run by and for its members rather than a commercial venture. “There are no salaries to pay, just a low subscription to cover the basic costs of running the club,” he says.

Colin and his wife themselves joined the club two years ago to increase their social network. He says they were attracted by

The first few months of a new year, are an ideal time to try IVC out, Colin says.

The club runs a threemonth temporary membership for just £5 and anyone is welcome to come along to one of the weekly social nights meeting at a central pub.

A year’s membership costs £36 with a discount for

One local group that has been doing this longer than most (since October 1980 in fact) is Swindon IVC. (The initials stand for Inter Varsity Club, but it’s a long time since it and 45 other clubs around the country existed firstly for university graduates.)

“We’re an outgoing club that are here to have fun doing the things we enjoy with other like-minded people,” says SIVC chair, Colin Lovell. “From curry nights to comedy nights, fancy dress parties to trips abroad, the range is as wide as the activities club members want to arrange or go to.

After all, why do these things alone when you could do them in company with a bunch of new friends?”

Colin explains that IVC is a voluntary organization 8

the fact that there was no commitment to attend too many things, but “the freedom to mix in with different people and different events knowing there is a midweek casual meet up if wanted.”

In a survey last year, many members said they had joined when moving to the area, starting a new stage in life, or simply wanting to get out, be more active and meet new people.

members who put on three or more events themselves.

As 2019 begins, why not visit swindonivc.org.uk to find out more?

Membership won’t get you any closer to the cast of the Friends TV series, but it could introduce you to a circle of friends who live on your doorstep.

www.swindonsalesandlettings.com

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

80 Victoria Rd, Swindon SN1 3BB

Swindon Sales and lettings

Ask the expert...

With Keith from Swindon Sales and Lettings BREXIT – Will House Prices Fall?

The truth is that nobody knows, everyone is speculating or exaggerating!

The property market does quieten down when there is a general election or has a small blip when interest rates rise but given the continuing problem with supply there really is an expectation that prices will only go one way over the long term even if the market quietens down due to the media’s Brexit scare mongering.

Some buyers are naturally less confident and will want to sit it out until the market adjust post-brexit but the simple reality is that there are not enough new homes being built or existing homes to go around, so once the uncertainty is over the market is likely to resume afresh after possibly a light breather.

For others Brexit will simply not be an issue as people get on with their day to day lives and move because they need to.

I have seen people who have sold in the past thinking they could buy back in a “couple”

10

of years later after prices fall, who now over 10 years later cannot get back on to the ladder.

Property is not a short term investment especially given the cost of trading in an out of ownership.

There is no doubt that Brexit has already had an impact on the property market with many adopting a wait-andsee approach until the final deal has been made.

As March 2019 and a final decision edges closer, many people are wondering whether they should take advantage of the current situation and buy or trade up, while house prices have subsided.

On the other hand, some people are conscious that a hard Brexit could see the housing market slow down and are trying to decide whether now is a good time to sell.

What is important to keep in mind is that value or price only becomes important when you sell or re-mortgage.

There are less properties being sold, transactions are down but this is having the effect of keeping prices at a good level as there is often a real lack of choice for home movers. Even if there is a slow down around the time we exit then this is likely to be short lived.

If you are looking for a property or thinking of selling contact Keith Angell on 01793 490238 for professional advice.

Swindon Sales & Lettings are offering a selling fee from just £895 with No VAT & No Admin Fee’s

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Meet the King of the Jungle Harry Redknapp here in Swindon Football legend and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here star Harry Redknapp will visit Swindon for his first event after leaving Australia.

“Harry Redknapp is a legend and we are proud to have some one of his calibre – he is a true gentleman as we seen on the ITV show with his love for his wife Sandra.

The former premier league manager, 71, who was crowned king of the jungle, will be spilling the beans on his footballing days and his I’m A Celebrity victory at the Steam Museum in February.

“This will be a show for everyone, Harry appeals to all, he is a national treasure.”

I Am Promotions, based in Swindon, will be hosting the one-off event.

Jack Baverstock, co-founder of the company said, “We are absolutely delighted to be hosting a night like this for the town, we don’t always get to have the A-list stars come here but we are trying to change this.

Harry, 71, had 18 seasons as a premier league manager. Among the teams he managed were West Ham, QPR and Tottenham Hotspur – the team he took into the UEFA Champions League. He also led Portsmouth to win the FA Cup under his regime.

The show will help to raise money for Ronald McDonald House which gives families the chance to remain close to their child while they are in hospital.

On the night there will also be a comedian and live music from a local performer which will be revealed in the New Year once the full line-up has been confirmed.

There will also be an auction midway through the evening where rare signed shirts from footballing legends will be up for grabs, some of the names include Pele and Ronaldo.

Jack said, “We really want to use our events to help those who need it most.

We want to raise as much money as possible for the charity.”

The event will take place on 22nd February and will feature a champagne reception, dinner and the chance to meet Harry.

11

12

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

“Hyperthyroidism in cats” He’s eating lots but is looking ‘old’ and skinny...

often be diagnosed and can often be managed successfully with

We’re all used to hearing about hyperthyroidism in humans but it is a common condition we see in pets too, most commonly in cats.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the Thyroid glands in the neck produce too much of the Thyroid hormones causing the cats body to speed up.

1) Medications such as tablets or liquids alongside correct diets.

If left untreated the organs become damaged as they are working too hard, often leading to heart failure, liver problems, blindness and ultimately death .

2) Surgery to remove affected tissue (thyroidectomy).

If you are concerned about your cat then call to book into one of our thyroid clinics during February or March.

3) Occasionally radioactive iodine treatment is required.

Our nurses are also on hand to offer any advice if you are worried.

Some of the signs can be: • Increased appetite • Increased thirst • Increased blood pressure/ heart rate • Weight loss • Change in behaviour • Unsettled and more vocal • Vomiting /Diarrhoea • Poor body and coat condition What can be done?

At a veterinary examination which may include blood tests hyperthyroidism can

13

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

The driving law changes you need to know about in 2019 – or face a big fine A new year brings with it a number of changes to motoring laws which include various changes to the MOT test, leaving more room when overtaking cyclists and new guidelines for learners.

How the Highway Code is going to change - When overtaking cyclists drivers now have to leave enough space for cyclists, or face a £100 fine.

The Highway Code says there must be at least 1.5 metres (4ft 11in) between the car and the cyclist, which is roughly the width of a car door.

Those who fail to leave enough of a gap could face a £100 fine.

Learner drivers on motorways - Learner drivers will now be able to use motorways if an instructor is supervising.

Smart Motorways - Changes to smart motorway legislation will see drivers handed points on their licence for driving through a red X sign as well as a £100 fine.

Driving under a red X is already an offence which can result in a police prosecution.

Changes to MOT tests New categories are being introduced for MOT tests which include: Dangerous: A car deemed a direct or immediate risk to road safety or the environment. This leads to an MOT test failure.

14

Major: Could affect the vehicle’s safety, put other road users at risk or affect the environment. This will also be a test failure.

Minor: No significant effect on safety but must be repaired as soon as possible.

Advisory: An issue which could become more serious in the future Pass: Meets the current minimum legal standards for maintenance and condition.

15

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Run for the trees!

Booking for the Westonbirt 10K has opened The popular Westonbirt 10K is returning to the National Arboretum on Thursday 9th May 2019, 7pm, as part of the Forestry Commission Active Forests programme.

One of the most beautiful running routes in the UK, the National Arboretum is the perfect location for sporting events, and runners taking part in this race will be able to take in the world renowned tree collection at one of its most beautiful times of year, with spring blooms and flowering trees providing the backdrop to this popular 10K. Perfect for those looking for a challenge in the new year, or veteran runners looking to achieve a new personal best, the course takes participants through the picturesque avenues of the Old Arboretum and into the peaceful tranquillity of the ancient Silk Wood, on largely flat terrain and hard paths.

16

All those taking part in the race will be able to make a big difference to their fitness and wellbeing but also to the nation’s heritage and environment. Every penny from the 10K goes back into supporting the nation’s woods and forests, and protecting these beautiful places for future generations.

All runners will also have the opportunity to fundraise for the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum.

Upon booking, everyone will have the opportunity to sign up as a charity runner, and raise funds for the Friends, by creating a fundraising page at www.fowa.org. uk/10K. Raise £50 and receive early bird entry to the race in 2020, raise £90 and receive a T-Shirt and early bird entry to the race in 2020.

All funds raised for the Friends go back into the arboretum, allowing us to

continue our important work in conservation, community and preserving this unique place.

Paul Cody, the head of Visitor Attraction at Westonbirt Arboretum commented, ‘We are thrilled that the run will be returning to us for its fifth consecutive year! This year we have looked to give runners an all-new route, taking them past some of the spring highlights of the arboretum. You don’t have to be an experienced runner to take part – anyone looking for a new challenge or those who are completely new to running can come and have a go!’

The run will cost £15.50 to UK athletics affiliated members, and £17.50 to non-affiliated members.

For more information and to book your place please visit: www.forestryengland.uk/ westonbirt/10k

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Keep up your New Year’s resolution and sign up for the Mad March Hare Looking for your first challenge of 2019? Look no further, entry is open for this year’s Mad March Hare in aid of Breast Cancer NOW. Sign Up and keep training to take part in the fun event in West Swindon which welcomes people of all ages and abilities to get out and enjoy taking exercise.

March 2019, starting and finishing at Lydiard Park Academy.

Esther Newman, part of the Mad March Team said, “the event which is in its 12th year has raised over £100,000 so far and we hope to make 2019 another successful year.

Come on your own or bring your family or friends or your dog to walk, jog or run the 5km or 10km circular route of West Swindon and Lydiard Park.

The event is one of a kind, it appeals to all ranges and abilities and ages and we are very proud to be part of so many personal journeys as they take on either the 5k or 10k for charity.

The Mad March Hare will take place on Sunday 24th

Without the support of the Swindon community we

would not be in our 12 th year and we want to thank each and every person who has ever taken part and we hope you will join us again this year to make it our best year yet!”

Ask AMS

80+ videos on YouTube Search ‘AMS Accountancy’ What to do when you receive a VAT assessment The reason for HMRC sending you an assessment is that you are late submitting your Vat Return. If you pay the assessment you could wait a very long time for them to correct the amount after you send in your Return, which is especially annoying if they owe you money!

What to do: Firstly, make some time to prepare your outstanding VAT Returns (or provide the necessary information to your accountant). Then submit any late Returns as soon as possible and pay the actual amounts due (if you can). If you do this within a few days of receiving it, you can ignore the VAT assessment.

Peter Bromiley ACA 01793 818400 @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk

17

MARIEME THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

We hear of artists describing music as being a journey so often these days that it has become a bit of a cliche. Occasionally, however, there is no better word to use and it is certainly the perfect way to describe Marieme’s career to date, much more than just a creative journey but a geographical, cultural and spiritual one too.

There has always been a sense of being an outsider that has helped build and strengthen Marieme’s identity. Born in Mauritania of a Mauritanian father and Senegalese mother, conflict in the region saw her family move first back to her mother’s country and then when she was seven to the USA in search of a safer and more settled life.

Growing up in The Bronx also came with challenges and as a young girl trying to assimilate into a new culture she was bullied due to her African heritage.

But she had always been influenced by American music and culture. “ I learnt to speak English through American music,” she says, “I grew up in a Muslim household and I wasn’t really allowed to listen to pop music, so obviously I gravitated towards it because it was forbidden.

But music has always been inside me, when I went back to Senegal for to visit people told me that I was always singing as a girl, I just didn’t remember it. So as a way of dealing with all the teasing I encountered growing up in America I naturally took refuge in music.” So where does she think she fits in culturally as an artist? “ I would say that my foundation is in Africa because my roots are there, my flow is African but the vibe is definitely American.”

Starting out down a pop and R&B pathway she has been influenced not only by the obvious mainstream sounds but later on by older and more iconic artists such as 18

Billy Holiday and Nina Simone. She also admits that there are some non-musical influences that have helped shape her attitude, approach and ambition and rates people like Michael Jordan and Mohammed Ali as just as important to the way she operates.

And with all of those references and influences going into the musical melting pot, her music understandably stands out from the pack.

Accessible and infectious pop it may be on one level but it has many hidden depths, not just musically but regarding the message she is trying to broadcast.

It is pop in an evening dress, pop with an eye on the long game, pop reaching its full potential, pop dancing with rock, blues, jazz and many other genres besides. If it sometimes skirts the realms of more mainstream pop it is mainstream pop that somehow transcends fleeting fad or fashion.

There is a slogan that has been used about her music, “Consciousness is the new rock and roll,” and that concisely sums up what beats at the heart of her music perfectly.

Sitting at an airport cafe as she was hopping from America to England and then on to Senegal our conversation seem to cover so many topics from faith to physics to music to politics to spirituality to

fashion to identity and it becomes abundantly clear that Marieme is not your usual pop artist.

This is someone with much to say, who makes music that is both addictive and poignant, that is commercial yet retains the depth and originality to have a cult following amongst the more discerning music lovers too.In short it looks like intelligent pop music is back on the menu.

19

The Swindon THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Concret Jungle @ Level III Psychic Sally @ Wyvern

The Little Mix Experience @ Wyvern

Prosecco festival @ STEAM

Field to Fork Fea @ Rove Farm

Meet Harry Redknapp @ STEAM

STFC v

Russell Kane @ Wyvern

20

www.theswindonian.co.uk

Grimsby T

@ Coun Ground

nian

Marathon runner raises over £3000 _____________________________________________ for Wiltshire Air Ambulance

te @ I

o ast es

v

Town

nty

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________

Music Quiz @ The Tuppenny

21

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Jason Doyle announces his return to the Robins Speedway team

Jason Doyle, the 2017 World Champion, will make an emotional return to Swindon next season.

Doyle rejoins the club after a season with Somerset and is thrilled to be back after winning the Premiership as well as the world title in his last spell at the Abbey.

He’s paid tribute to the loyal band of Robins fans who support the club during good and bad times.

“They’re brilliant,” he said.

“I’ve had so many great memories with the club and they support me a lot in 22

Grand Prix racing even if the team is struggling.

“You only have to look back at 2017 and the shocking start we had but the fans stayed with us and we rewarded them with the league title at the end!

“I’m happy to be back, Wayne and Terry Russell are always true to their word and I want to win the league title again – as well as winning back the world title!”

Swindon boss Alun Rossiter said: “Contrary to some keyboard experts, we never fell out with Doyley.

We’re delighted to have him back.

“There was never any issue with Doyley, it’s just with team building restrictions last winter we had to make some tough decisions.

“He’s a great spearhead and it’s great for the sport in this country to have the 2017 World Champion racing here.”

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

10 years of the UK & Ireland Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour!

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland, bringing over 100 adrenaline-packed shows to almost 60 venues from January - May 2019, including Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre.

The Tour features two different collections of brand-new films from the world’s most intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners of the planet.

“We’re thrilled to have reached 10 years of bringing the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour to the UK and Ireland – and what better way to celebrate than with the latest dose

of cutting-edge adventure films from the world’s most prestigious mountain festival!” says Tour Director Nell Teasdale.

“We guarantee that the anniversary atmosphere at the shows will be buzzing – and that audiences will go home inspired to have an adventure of their own as well,” she adds.

Films in the World Tour are selected from hundreds entered into the Banff Mountain Film Festival, which takes place for every November in Canada’s Rocky Mountains.

The UK & Ireland Tour starts in Edinburgh on Saturday 19 January and finishes in Guildford on Friday 24 May.

Banff will be at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon on Thu 7 March with their Red Programme.

Film highlights include: THIS MOUNTAIN LIFE Martina and her 60-yearold mother Tania embark on an epic ski traverse from Vancouver to Alaska – six months and 2,300km of journeying though relentless mountain wilderness. This Mountain Life is a multiaward-winning film and a riveting portrait of the human passion for adventure, set high in the peaks of British Columbia, Canada.

For more information and to book tickets, see swindontheatres.co.uk 23

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

But First, Tea.

Just a Swindon Mum winging my way through life with my boy.

Wild Thing With 2018 now a distant memory (thanks to January and its 109.5 days), I thought I would take this one last opportunity to look back on our very last adventure of the year, which was literally packed into the limited daylight hours of December 31st.

As per usual (as I am such a terrible decision maker and my boy seems to have inherited this unfortunate trait), it took us a couple of hours in the morning to decide where we wanted to go. However as soon as I mentioned Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, both our faces lit up.

winter and how much time we would have for the adventure playground (always a priority with my adventurer no matter where I take him or how much money I’ve spent on a day out, and I just have to accept that)!

very in

At £16.00 for Adults and £10.50 for Children over 2 years (slightly cheaper if you book online in advance), it can feel pricey for a whole family but I think it’s fairly comparable with other similar attractions and feels OK as a treat day.

The Park also offer season tickets, which I may well look into for 2019 as my little one would love to have unlimited access and it’s close enough to jump in the car during a weekend when you haven’t got much else planned.

formed 4 year old telling me that it would be great to play and dig around in the sand, but not so fun to have to be the ‘lookout’ and stand still all day. Agreed.

We then moved to one of our favourite sections, the Madagascan Walkthrough, where visitors can walk among a number of Crowned Sifaka and Greater Bamboo Lemurs – two of the most endangered primate species in the world.

As it’s one of our favourites and we’re pretty familiar with what there is to see and do, the 35 minute journey went by in a flash as we talked about which animals to visit first, which ones might be sleeping in the middle of 24

As usual we started with a toilet stop (there are plenty around and they are always well-maintained) before finding the Penguins and doing our best impressions.

We had a lengthy conversation about Meerkats with my

It’s a great conservation project and my little one just loves being able to see them up close and run right across the path in front of us. More conversations triggered, about where different lemurs are from and what they eat.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Other highlights for us during this trip were the Lions and hearing them roar – (his face was a picture), the ‘stinky’ Rhinos, the wolves, the train ride (which takes you all around the park for £1 a ticket) and of course the playground.

We are picnic lovers and so happily sat on one of the many benches with our sandwiches and snacks, but there is a good restaurant serving a decent selection of hot and cold food and drinks which many people were taking advantage of.

It has to be said that it’s a pretty awesome playground, and I didn’t mind watching for 25 minutes as my adventurer screamed with delight at repeatedly going down the death-drop slide (and no you would not catch me joining him on that one).

The park was literally closing as we left so we definitely got our money’s worth. I had one very happy and tired boy and although I was secretly looking forward to getting home to a cup of tea and my pyjamas (yes I did have a rocking New Year’s Eve planned),

I loved that we’d spent a day without screens and had instead enjoyed many crazy and interesting conversations, lots of laughter and some much needed fresh-air and exercise.

We’ll definitely be heading back soon, and if wildlife, fun family days out or adventure playgrounds are your thing, I’d recommend you do too.

Email me: butfirstteamum@outlook.com

BFT x 25

27

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Community News

SHELAA Update - Lakeside

Nadine, Jane & Neil are pleased to confirm that Swindon Borough Council has removed the Lakeside site (S0388) from the SHELAA (Strategic Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment.)

This was as a result of the number of objections received including the petition and the quality of the submissions. The strength of feeling was evident. Residents and councillors united to protect this strategic green corridor.

Neil Hopkins, Chair of the Leisure and Amenities Committee, South Swindon Parish Council will be tasked to identify the best way to get this land transferred along with the rest of the Lawns park to South Swindon Parish Council on a 99-year lease to ensure that this land is protected for future generations.

Swindon Half Marathon Exciting news for the runners of Swindon living within South Swindon Parish Council (SSPC) area who are planning on taking part in the Swindon Half Marathon on Sunday 22 September 2019 (starting at 9.30am).

28

Race organisers met with the chair of the South Swindon Parish Council on 7 January and it was agreed that the parish will be subsidising entries of runners who live within the South Swindon parish area for the 2019 race so that a £10 discount per runner will automatically be applied in order to promote health and well-being of constituents* Full details on which areas of the town are within SSPC, and the entry process, will be published on www.newswindonhalf.co.uk ready for a 1st February launch of the 2019 race. *limited to the first 500 runners from within the qualifying area.

Wichelstowe

Great to see the new Hall & Woodhouse Pub near Waitrose will open on 1st February. The dentist is now open in East Wichel.

Any local issues, please contact: Jane Milner-Barry & Nadine Watts & Neil Hopkins (parish councillor) Old Town & East Wichel Nadine Watts 07595 071381 Jane Milner-Bary 07864 839746 Neil Hopkins 07799 866396

Clifton Street School

A planning application has just been submitted proposing to demolish the old Clifton Street School and instead erect 10 new flats.

The application documents can be viewed using the Council’s planning portal at https://pa1.swindon.gov.uk/ publicaccess/ and by entering the application number S/18/1997 into the search box.

As your local representatives we will be opposing this application and will be calling on the developer to repair the building in a manner that is sympathetic to its heritage.

An online petition calling on the Council’s planning department to reject this application to demolish the building has also been started.

If you would like a link to sign this petition please get in touch with us and we will email you the link.

Kingshill Air Quality In February 2018 Swindon Borough Council declared part of the Kingshill Road area an Air Quality Management Area. Since then a large amount of work has gone into looking for solutions to improve the air quality in Kingshill.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

The action plan to improve the air quality in Kingshill is on the Council’s website, or feel free to contact us and we can email you the plan.

Rough Sleepers Strategy At the time of writing Swindon Council is currently consulting on a draft Rough Sleepers Reduction Strategy. This strategy sets out the Council’s vision and plans for reducing Rough Sleeping over the next three years.

The main themes of the draft Rough Sleepers Reduction Strategy are: • Work in partnership to prevent people sleeping rough in the first place – noone arrives on the street • Rapid joined up response when people do end up on the streets • Provide an outreach service for those with complex or multiple needs • No-one should return to the streets • Develop a range of accommodation and support solutions tailored to individual needs Get in touch with us if you have any views on how the Council can tackle this increasing issue.

Eastcott Labour Team Councillor Paul Dixon, Mobile: 07454 736 769 Councillor Imtiyaz Shaikh, Mobile: 07894543786

Keypoint Public Inquiry 22 January at STEAM

to all traffic, yet nothing has happened.

At the time of writing the public inquiry on the Keypoint waste Incinerator planning application is imminent.

A420 Pedestrian Crossing

The hearing will be held at the STEAM Museum, starting on Tuesday 22 January at 10am. It is expected to go on for the 10 days.

Eastern Villages A419 Bridge Swindon Council look set to kick in to the long grass the idea of a bridge over the A419 from the new Eastern Villages development.

The leading Conservative Councillors on Swindon Council have said they will postpone the Great Stall Bridge scheme until further notice.

This bridge over the A419 offers an opportunity to disperse some of the traffic from the new Eastern Villages away from the already very busy White Hart Roundabout and Oxford Road, but now motorists will have no other option than to use this junction and to use Oxford Road, most probably creating gridlock.

It’s frustrating because every candidate locally in the elections last May was in favour of building the bridge and making it open

Swindon Council is also looking at the feasibility of an additional crossing on the A420, east of the junction with Old Vicarage Lane.

The purpose of the crossing would be to provide a pedestrian route between the proposed village of Rowborough (north of A420) and the planned new secondary school (south of A420).

While I have no problem with having a crossing for school children, I am concerned that additional traffic signals will create further gridlock on this already busy stretch of the A420. I hope the Council will think carefully about how they can avoid impacting on traffic when designing this junction.

I am writing to update you on local issues affecting Lower Stratton & Coleview.

I am a Stratton Parish Councillor, however I am writing in a personal capacity and my views are not necessarily those of the Parish Council’s.

Contact details: Barrie Jennings 07944740562

29

The World’s Happiest Countries Travel is something that can get us excited, put a smile on our faces and live life to the fullest, and at Travel Counsellors we are always trying to make our customers’ holidays a positive experience. However, according to a study, there are some destinations that are more satisfied than others.

beautiful country to celebrate? If you love skiing then there’s plenty of powder white snow in the Swiss Alps to enjoy, while one of the country’s lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne and Lake Zurich are perfect for a relaxing, scenic getaway.

The World Happiness Report is an annual publication compiled by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Solutions Network, containing rankings of national happiness and analysis of its findings. So, here’s a look at the cream of the happiness crop, and what you can get up in these over-the-moon nations.

If you want to sample a slice of city life then look no further than Basel with its stunning Old Town, paper mill and river-powered longboats giving you a fun way to explore the Rhine, or maybe check out Zurich which is home to beautiful architecture, the FIFA World Football Museum and fantastic viewpoints which are reachable by funicular and cable car.

5. Switzerland

4. Iceland

Switzerland is the fifth happiest nation according to the UN, and why wouldn’t they be, with such a

Iceland’s natural wonders draw visitors from all over the world, but the country’s most popular destination

is Reykjavík – its capital, and the largest of only two cities. While it does have fantastic attractions such as Lutheran church Hallgrímskirkja and Videy Island, which features hiking trails and outdoor art installations, Reykjavík is a gateway to hundreds of day trips.

One of its most popular natural attractions is the Golden Circle – a sightseeing route laden with natural beauty and attractions.

While a lot of the tours follow different routes, most of them will visit the main sights including Geysir, with its exploding hot springs, the awe-inspiring Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which straddles the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

3. Denmark

Denmark is not only one of the cheeriest nations on Earth, but it is also home to the Happiness Research Institute and hygge – a concept of cosiness and comfortable living, with feelings of wellness and contentment. Its main tourist destination is Copenhagen, a fairytale city embodied by its rich royal past and famous Little Mermaid statue.

Here you can get your thrills at the city’s theme park Tivoli Gardens, enjoy lunch at one of Copenhagen’s favourite waterside spots, Nyhavn, or visit the commune of Freetown Christiania. If you’re looking for something away from the big city, head to Billund, home to the headquarters of toy manufacturer LEGO and the world’s first LEGOLAND Resort or try Denmark’s second city, Aarhus, which has a fantastic culinary scene and a wealth of museums and art galleries including the rainbow-coloured ARoS Museum.

2. Norway

Norway has also adopted hygge, but they have plenty of their own attractions to offer, whether you’re a fan of city breaks or natural beauty. Capital city Oslo is where you’ll be able to see sights such as Oslo Opera House, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and two versions of Edvard Munch’s The Scream at the

Norwegian National Gallery as well as the Munch Museum. If you head north of Oslo and up the west coast, you’ll quickly become acquainted with the country’s jaw-dropping scenery. The Norwegian west coast is a popular cruising and road trip route, with places such as the incredible Geirangerfjord, which has incredible hiking trails and views, and Norangsdalen Valley, which has awe-inspiring nature and frontier-like landscapes.

the 1952 summer games or visit Temppeliaukio, a church built into solid rock.

If you’d like to book a holiday to one of the world’s happiest destinations, make your next travel arrangements with a knowledgeable, trustworthy and friendly travel expert. I deliver a personal, professional and bespoke travel service.

Contact me: allan.trinidad@ travelcounsellors.com

1. Finland

The title of ‘World’s Happiest Country’ goes to another Nordic nation in Finland. Finland is a favourite for families looking for a festive getaway, with Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village in Lapland popular spots over the Christmas period.

Here, your kids will be able to meet Santa Claus, while you’ll be able to take advantage of amazing winter activities including tobogganing, snow hockey, dog sledge riding and plenty of opportunities to see the night’s sky come to life with the Northern Lights. Down south there’s the country’s largest city, and capital, Helsinki, with its low-lying buildings and coastal charm.

Take a day trip to the island fortress of Suomenlinna and learn about Helsinki’s military and maritime past, take a tour of the Olympic Stadium which hosted

31

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Musical Musings with Dave Franklin

Sheer Music starts the year off strongly with not only the return of Sean McGown to Level III on 21st Feb but the debut of his full band format. Punked up cockneyfolk acoustics par excellence and opening the night is The Nerve Endings.

The same night Canadian troubadour Ariel Posen can be found at The Victoria delivering salvos of rootsy blues, R&B and melodic rock & roll.

The Victoria is also the place to be for Peter and the Test Tube Babies on 23rd; funny, frantic, near the knuckle punk forty years in the making.

It may seem as if I am being biased towards the Victoria and Level III this month but real stand out gigs, those featuring something really different, artists with a proven and widespread reputation, acts which bring something new and exciting to town have been few and far between this month.

Bear in mind that this column is written a month or so in advance so this may just reflect the lack of proactivity regarding most venues websites. So if you feel that your favourite venue is being overlooked, well, you know what to do.As proven on the recent recording Lydian Haiku, the brilliantly 32

named Zero Gravity Tea Ceremony’s music is a collection of shifting moods, transient sounds, formless exploration and strange musical juxtapositions.

It is music as art, it is mood made into song, and it’s happening at The Tuppenny on 7th March with the deft and dexterous Emily-Jane Sheppard in support.

Fans of such music should also note that Ferocious Dog kick off their current UK tour at Level III on 1st March so if folk infused with rock, punk and reggae is your cup of tea, you know where to be.

Finally on 7th March the Swindon-Swedish alliance is reforged as Messrs. Buswell and Nyberg gather another pop up orchestra around them for more of their trademark, one off, suck it and see approach to classically enhanced cinematic indie. What could possibly go wrong?

E A R LY

BIRD

MENU

Only £12.99 2 Course Meal Deal

Available Between 5.30pm - 7pm

Choose a Starter and a Main Dish ***

Starters ¼ Aromatic Crispy Duck with Salad and Sauce Famous Chicken Thai Satay on Skewers x 3 sticks Siam Sesame Prawns on Toast Vegetable Spring Rolls x 4 ***

Mains Pad Thai Noodles *

Curry Dishes:

Thai Green Curry Thai Red Curry Panang Curry Jungle Curry

Wok Fried Thai Dishes: Pad Med Mamuang- Cashew Nuts Pad Priew Wan - Sweet & Sour Pad Bai Krapraw - Garlic, Chilli and Basil Pad Namman Hoy - Oyster Sauce All served with Steamed Jasmine Rice and a choice of Chicken, Beef, Pork, or Vegetables (King Prawns £1 supplement) *excludes Steamed Jasmine Rice PLEASE NOTE: TABLE BACK STRICTLY BY 7:30PM. Extra Charges will apply if over 7.30pm.

w w w. s i a m t h a i s w i n d o n . c o m G o d w i n C o u r t , O l d To w n 01793 611199

Stage Coach

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2019

Swindon faces a comedic banquet on 9th February with a trio of humourists appearing at a choice of local venues:

Mancunian main-eventer Jason Manford is at the Oasis Leisure Centre, Germanic jester Henning Wehn is storming the Wyvern Theatre and diminutive dame de la comédie Lucy Porter will be bringing her own brand of warm yet thought-provoking comedy to the Swindon Art Centre.

These three aren’t the only wags, wits and wise-crackers visiting Swindon in February.

Andrew Doyle, co-creator of the Internet sensation ‘Jonathan Pie’, brings his ‘Friendly Fire’ to the Art Centre on 8th February.

Soccer AM’s Lloyd Griffiths will also be appearing with ‘All-Rounder’ on 14th February, swiftly followed by

34

archly-conversation comic Stephen Bailey’s ‘Our Kid at the same venue on the following night.

But that’s not the end of it; there are more laughs (hopefully) with Geordie comedian Carl Hutchinson at the Art Centre on 16th

February and the avantgarde stylings of John-Luke Roberts on 27th.

And Anne Widdecombe will take to the Art Centre stage on 17th February to… Um, well, do whatever it is she does these days.

I’m pretty sure she won’t be being dragged around the stage by her ankles if that helps? Swindon Borough Council won’t grant licences for that sort of behaviour.

With Ben Thomas

Meanwhile the Wyvern boasts a visit from the Anglo-Irish-Australian stand-up star Jimeon on 15th February and, on the 26th, energetic and awardwinning Essex motormouth Russell Kane will be

pirouetting about the stage to the delight of an adoring audience.

Add in the various comedy nights around town and that sounds like more live comedy in just one month than the average sides could stand without splitting. Could there be any better opportunity to laugh away the late-winter blues than with that line-up?

£10 FREE *

WHEN YOU

TOPUP £20 1st - 28th February * Added as account credit

Your Tanning Experts 44 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX

08000 88 60 90 consol.eu

Barnes Holidays Simply Magical River Rhine: Delta to Basel With 7 included excursions!

Mon 1st April 2019 9 Days: From £1,649 If this cruise offers you one thing above all others, it is a chance to marvel. At Holland’s impressive tulips, at the beautiful scenery surrounding the famous Lorelei Rock and the delightfully quaint Alsace region. Plus much much more.

Also marvel at how quickly you can switch off and leave behind the cares of everyday life. The 5 Star MS Inspire feels like a floating premium hotel which will give you a relaxed lifestyle and atmosphere as soon as you are on board.

the best of cornwall: based in looe Sat 6th April 2019 5 Days: From £359

skegness, lincoln & the wolds Mon 8th April 2019 5 Days: From £359

Inludes visits to Fowey, Padstow, Polperro, Mevagissey, Falmouth & Truro! Explore Cornwall’s Harbour Towns and Villages from the historic fishing port of Looe, where two rivers create a tidal harbour. The bustling harbour is the hub of the town and home to fishing vessels as well as pleasure craft. We will be staying at the Portbyhan Hotel which is set in an unrivalled position right in the heart of Looe.

The pleasant seaside resort of Skegness has a level promenade and there are beautiful gardens, including the picturesque Tower Gardens, reminiscent of their heyday in 1878 when opened.

Interesting tours out to explore the county. We enjoy a day out in Lincoln and also view the Wolds, a nationally important and cherished landscape. We will be staying at the family owned & managed The Quorn Hotel set right on the seafront - This hotel has received excellent feedback on previous tours!

contact the barnes team to request a 2019 holiday brochure!

01793 821303 www.barnescoaches.co.uk Unit E, Woodside road, south park, swindon, sn3 4aq 01793 821303 marston WWW.BARNESCOACHES.CO.UK