The Swindonian November 2018 Issue by The Swindonian

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Contents Welcome to the November edition of The Swindonian Magazine. This year marks 100 years since the end of the First World War and we remember those who lost their lives and their sacrifices with the history of Remembrance Day day the significance of the Poppy over on page 14 Local marathon runner Ian Norris thanks his supporters who helped him raise over £3,000 for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance over on page 17 whilst over on page 21 local children’s charity Jessie May share more information on their latest fundraising initiative. This month promises to be a busy month with plenty of opportunities for families to come together at one of the many firework displays which promise to light the Swindon skies before we welcome back X-Factor runner-up Jahmene Douglas to assist in kicking off the festive season on Saturday November 17th a the Town Centre lints switch on in Wharf Green. Old Town will follow with their Christmas lights switch on a week later on Sunday 25th in Wood Street. If you are looking for things to do in early December head on over to page 15 and check out how you can join The Rotary Club with the Santa Fun Run at Lydiard Park and of course make sure you have your tickets for this years Panto - Aladdin, which kicks off at The Wyvern Theatre on December 8th.

St Mary’s Church at Lydiard is set to receive National lottery support to help conserve its interiors.

Adam Woodyatt returns to town to delight Swindonians in the 2018 Panto Aladdin.

Festive flavoured crisps.... Brussels Sprout flavour, no thank you!

Remembrance Day, and the significance of the Poppy.

Swindon Social Enterprise will be launching at the Central Community Centre.

A Swindon Mum talks about Mental Health awareness and the importance of being kind, to yourself!

Allan Trinidad shares his knowledge on the Philippines - fancy a trip? Get in touch with him and mention The Swindonian for the best deals.

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

Stage Coach with Ben Thomas Ben brings us up to speed with the November offerings on Stage and Screen.

Until next month….

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THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

OCTOBER S H O R T S

Forward Swindon to be brought in-house

Swindon Borough Council have announced plans to move the towns regeneration company Forward Swindon in-house so it can work even more closely with the authority’s economy team. Forward Swindon have been leading the way on a number of key town centre regeneration projects over the last few years but, after being co-located alongside the Council’s Economy team at the start of this year, a decision has been made to integrate both teams so they can continue to build on the work that is currently being carried out. Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Town Centre, said:

CLEAN SWEEP FOR SWINDON GP SURGERY Healthcare inspectors have rated a Swindon GP surgery as good in all areas after staff at the practice went the extra mile to overturn a previous rating of requires improvement. Park Lane Practice’s positive scoring by the Care Quality Commission means it has now joined Swindon’s other 24 GP surgeries in being rated as either good or outstanding by the healthcare regulator. Rob Charles, Practice Manager, said: “Everybody at Park Lane Practice is absolutely delighted by this fantastic news.

“This is a crucial point in Swindon’s history with major multi-million pound regeneration schemes, which have been planned for years, a matter of months away from starting on the ground.” “As the new cabinet member for town centre regeneration, I am determined that residents and businesses in Swindon start to see visible signs of progress in the very near future, and I believe this is a step in the right direction.”

“We were clearly disappointed to have been told to improve earlier in the year, but we used it as an opportunity to take stock of where we were and make further changes that would enable us to become the kind of GP surgery we all aspired to be. “More than anything else, we are just incredibly happy the inspectors recognised our efforts and the work we carried out to make things better for our patients. “It’s been quite a journey, but we fully intend to keep this momentum going and build on our success to ensure that patients now, and in the future, continue to receive the best possible care each time they visit Park Lane.”

Shoppers could soon be paid to recycle at Tesco

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018 Care workers offered support through charity partnership

Swindon shoppers could soon be paid 10p every time they recycle a plastic bottle if a planned trial in major UK cities is successful. Recycling machines will automatically pay customers every time they return bottles to Tesco stores, supermarket bosses have said. The first bottle trials will be limited to 10 bottles per customer, per day and up to 750ml bottles can be deposited.

Care at home company Bluebird Care Swindon has teamed up with a national charity which looks after care workers. The partnership with the Care Workers Charity will benefit Bluebird’s employees, as the charity provides a rainy day fund for the UK’s 1.5 million care workers. Working to help current, former or retired care workers who may face financial difficulties, the charity awards hardship grants of up to £500. “This is a great partnership which Bluebird Care has entered into nationally and in which we are delighted to participate on a Swindon level,” said Ben Curtis, Managing Director of Bluebird Care Swindon. “We know that working in care comes with a range of challenges and want to further reward our dedicated employees at Bluebird Care Swindon who have put our approach to person-centred services and care at the heart of everything they do. Thanks to the partnership, our staff will be able to apply for grants to help support them if unexpected circumstances or life events occur – for example illnesses, changes in living circumstances, relationship breakdowns, or family bereavements.” Bluebird Care Swindon offers a realistic alternative to residential care by allowing people to stay in their own homes with care and support. The support can involve one or more short visits a day, extending to overnight help and live-in care. 5

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

FIZZ BANG POP! FIREWORK FEAR

Firework season now stretches months rather than days and can be a scary time for pets. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for noise phobia instead creating a desensitisation plan which is carried out over a longer period is the best way to help them combat their fear. But, there are simple things you can do at home to help your pet during firework season;

Keep pets indoors

Mask the sound of fireworks

•

Try to walk dogs before it gets dark or ensure they are kept on a lead in case they are spooked

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Try to allow cats out during the day and keep them in at night, providing extra litter trays where possible

Stay calm and ignore the firework •

Provide a safe place ‘den’ •

•

Create a safe place for your pet this could be a crate with their bed in and a blanket covering the top, under a table with the sides covered or somewhere they have previously hidden (behind a sofa). Allow them to come and go as they please. For small furries, provide extra bedding for them to burrow or hide in.

Keep the radio or TV on especially if pets are at home alone to try and muffle the sound of fireworks

One of the best things is for you to ignore the fireworks and stay calm. Try not to reassure your pet by cuddling or holding them as this can reinforce the fear, where possible try to continue your routine as normal.

Speak to your vet •

There are specially formulated natural products available to help reduce anxiety which can be brought over the counter.

•

Where required stronger medication can be prescribed by your vet.

•

Your vet can discuss a long-term programme to help your pet in the future

Our team are always on hand to offer further advice and information so if you have any questions please contact your clinic on 01793 526780

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Jahmene Douglas to open Swindon’s Festival of Lights

inSwindon BID are delighted to welcome back local favourite Jahmene Douglas to the main stage to kick off the free ‘Festival of Lights’ Christmas campaign, on Saturday 17th November from 5-6pm in Wharf Green. Jahmene said

‘I can’t wait to be back to celebrate the festive season with you all, in the best way I know how to share love – through song. See you soon!’

He will be joining the light switch line up which is headlined, this year, by Tinchy Stryder, the most popular British urban artist of this generation. The all-star line-up also includes Voice Kids Lilia St. Mary’s Church Lydiard Tregoze wins confirmed National Lottery support St. Mary’s Church Lydiard Tregoze, which lies on the western edge of Swindon in historic Lydiard Park, has received a confirmed National Lottery grant award from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to conserve its gorgeous interiors. The project aims include conserving the buildings extensive and nationally significant medieval wall paintings, 17th Century monuments, ancient carved woodwork and star spangled ceiling. Made possible by National Lottery players, the grant of £615,000 towards the

£901,605 delivery phase will enable the church to carry out the conservation work, environmental improvements and access improvements to St Mary’s Church as well as the delivery of a specialist training programme and associated learning, volunteering and community engagement activities .

Slattery and Phoebe Maddison, Swindon’s Tap Attack from Britains Got Talent, Nathaniel Parker who won Swindon’s Got Talent and our very own local Swindon Dance. The light switch on event will culminate in a dramatic firework finale which will light up the sky above the town centre (weatherpermitting). Throughout the day, visitors and families can enjoy free entertainment including our Christmas bouncing elves all the way from the NorthPole and the mesmerising Glo Hula Hooping dancer, as well as the much-loved Santa’s Grotto and the new Santa’s Post Office at The Brunel Shopping Centre.

local people, families, schoolchildren and higher education students. These will include hands on conservation workshops and skills training.

St. Mary’s stands behind the gracious mansion of Lydiard House and is famous for the richness of its monuments to the St. John family who lived at Lydiard for over 500 years. The church currently attracts The project aims to rescue over 8,100 visitors a year from the church from deteriorating both this country and abroad further and improve public and is well used by local schools access by re-opening the researching heritage on their hidden south porch and doorstep and visitors to the creating a welcoming adjacent house and park. interpretation and activity area. The church plans a wide range of educational activities and events as well as offering training and volunteer opportunities for 7

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

PANTO SEASON IS NEAR – OH YES IT IS! There’s no denying it, Christmas is creeping closer and closer and it’s time to start getting excited about all things festive! Top of our list to kick off the season is a visit to one of the greatest British traditions – Pantomime!

This December you can fly high on a magic carpet ride to the Far East for the Wyvern Theatre’s magical family pantomime – Aladdin. Featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, a lamp-full of laughter and an Aladdin’s cave of spectacular surprises, it’s the perfect treat for the festive season and a wish come true for all the family! The Wyvern are excited to be welcoming back soap legend Adam Woodyatt to play the role of the evil Abanazar. Adam is much-loved by Swindon panto audiences, 8

having previously starred in sold-out productions of Peter Pan as Captain Hook and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs as Chambers. Aladdin will mark Adam’s twelfth festive season on the panto-stage.

Further casting has also been announced, with Richard J Hunt taking the role of Genie, Rosanna Harris playing Princess Jasmine, Neil Bromley as Widow Twankey, Garry Jerry as Wishee Washee, David McKechnie as the Emperor and Adam Bailey playing the title role of Aladdin.

This year’s Panto runs from Sat 8 December until Sun 6 January and many performances are already sold out!

Adam’s television credits include The Baker Street Boys and The Witches and the Grinnygog, but he is best-known for his role as Ian Beale in EastEnders, a part which he has played since the soap first aired more than three decades ago. Adam is a recipient of the British Soap Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.

Don’t miss a whole new world of adventure – book your tickets now!

Tickets can be booked online at: swindontheatres.co.uk

or through the Ticket Office on 01793 524481. Family, Group and Concession rates available on select performances.

Bookings Now Being Taken for Christmas see website for more details! Choose between a Christmas Siam Feast or Christmas Festive Banquet from just Â£26 per person

Opening Hours Sunday 5.30pm - 10.30pm Monday to Thursday 12noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm - 11.00pm Friday & Saturday 12noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm - 11.30pm

bookings

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6 1 1 1 9 9

7 5 - 7 6 G o d w i n C o u r t , O l d To w n , S w i n d o n S N 1 4 B S

www. s i a m t h a i sw i n d o n .co m

Neo Nature with Thomas ‘Grasslands’ Haynes This time of year is a period of inactivity for many species with food sources becoming scarcer for most mammals and the first frosts putting an end to many of the edible fungi and the remaining flowering plants that were just clinging on. One group of fungi that manages to survive well into winter are the waxcaps. Waxcaps are brightly coloured fungi with a waxy or slippery-looking cap. They are found in grasslands that are generally poor in nutrients such as old pasture, heathland, lawns and cemeteries and the UK is one of the most important countries in the world for these types of fungi, so it is certainly worth going out for a look in your local cemetery to see what you might find. November is a great month to go out bird watching as we see many of our native bird populations bolstered by visiting populations from the Baltic regions where they fly over to spend the winter in the UK, where the weather is milder and food is easier to find.

find common birds such as Robins and Blackbirds will increase their numbers with visiting cousins from further north. If you are new to birding, looking for waders and ducks is a great way to learn as there are many kinds on lakes and ponds at this time of year. Just grab a pair of binoculars and a bird ID book and away you go!

Events this month are few In spring, they return to their and far between this month, breeding areas. These birds but there is a great winter include fieldfares, redwings, birdwatching event happening on the 24th November at bramblings, Bewick’s and Swindon Lagoons with the whooper swans and many Swindon Wildlife Group, kinds of ducks, geese and with potential opportunities wading birds. You will also to see two snipe species, teal

and redwing. The event starts at 10am and tickets cost £3. Contact Robin Griffiths (Tel: 07761 290725 or email: robswildlife@googlemail.com) for further details. Also on the 24th November, you can learn how to build your own bird table with Ralph Harvey at Blakehill Farm, near Cricklade. The workshop only has six spaces, so book online here: www.wiltshirewildlife.org/ Event/build-your-own-birdtable Grasslands Out!

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Brussels sprout flavoured crisps anyone? Walkers Crisps are launching Brussels sprout crisps this Christmas along with pigs in blankets and turkey & stuffing flavours.

them, nothing divides the nation more at Christmas than a sprout – so we have created two Christmas dinner multipacks, one for

sprout lovers and one for haters to keep the peace this festive season.”

You can buy single 32.5g packs of the turkey and stuffing, pigs in blankets and Brussels sprouts flavours for 65p a pack or you can buy multipacks of six packets for £1.50. Andrew Hawkswell, marketing manager said: “Here at Walkers we know that Christmas isn’t Christmas without sprouts. “Whether you grin or grimace at the sight of

Are you a #SproutLover or #SproutHater

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

A HISTORY OF THE REMEMBRANCE DAY POPPY This year marks the One-hundredth year since the end of the First World War. At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918 the guns that had roared so savagely across the world fell silent. The “war to end all war” was over. And since then we have used the humble poppy as a mark of hope and in remembrance of those who laid down their lives in that war and in all wars. But what is its history? Over the four years that the war raged, the fields around Flanders in Belgium, where some of the fiercest fighting of the Western Front took place, were decimated. Silence descended, but only a short time later in a symbolic mark of life triumphing over death, a wave of poppies began to grow anew. As these Flanders Poppies thrived in the now barren soil, Canadian soldier and poet John McCrae was inspired to write the now famous and wonderfully moving “In Flanders Field.” After reading the poem American University Professor Moina Michael was so moved 14

that she went to a New York department store and bought all the artificial poppies they had and sold them as souvenirs of remembrance under the banner keep the faith. The National American Legion adopted the poppy as its symbol and began the tradition of wearing them as button-holes on November 11th each year, Armistice Day.

The first official Poppy Day Appeal in this country took place in 1921 where 9 million poppies where sold and £100,000 was raised to help war veterans and families.

By 1920 the tradition had spread to France and then to Britain where Field Marshall Douglas Haig, the first president of the newly formed Royal British Legion also followed suit.

A non-religious, non-cultural symbol of remembrance that continues to raise money for veterans and families and to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that the world might be a better place.

Today poppies are worn around the world, forms may vary, The Scottish poppy for example has four petals and no leaf, but the ethic behind them remains the same.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Santa Fun Run ready for take-off Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club is once again aiming to get 500 runners out in costume raising money for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance at this year’s Santa Fun Run on Sunday 2nd December 2018. Runners can now sign up for the event, held annually in the stunning surroundings of Lydiard Park, with 75% of the proceeds this year going to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance and the remaining 25% being distributed to small local Swindon charities. The Santa Fun Run is a fun event open to all abilities with a Santa suit included as part of the £15 entry price. There will also be a Zumba warm-up session prior to the start and refreshments will be before,

during and after the event for runners and supporters. Chris Sims, President of the Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club, is looking forward to what will be the seventh successive event of its kind. “Every year it is fantastic to see so many individuals, groups, the young, the not so young and even some of the four-legged variety set off around the course. Seeing so many Santa’s is quite a sight and of course all in support of such magnificent local causes.” Kenresa Stratford, Events Coordinator at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “We’re so grateful to the Swindon Phoenix Rotary Club for choosing Wiltshire Air

Ambulance to once again benefit from this year’s Santa Fun Run. “The funds raised will help to keep our lifesaving service operational in Swindon and the rest of Wiltshire. The Santa Fun Run is great fun and people of all ages can take part. We will be at the event with our mascot, Wilber, and our Air Ambulance elves will also be participating by walking the 5k route. We look forward to meeting people who are taking part.” The cost for an Adult is just £15 to include your Santa suit, infant entry 0-4 years are free. To register and to book your places please log onto www.swindonsanta.org.uk 15

©Disney ©Disney/Pixar © POOF-Slinky, LLC.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Marathon runner raises over £3000 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance London Marathon runner Ian Norris has thanked everyone who supported him to raise more than £3,000 for Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

He and his wife, Michelle, visited Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s new airbase at Semington, near Melksham, to present the total of £3,719.

Ian, an on-call firefighter from Ruxley Close, Royal Wootton Bassett, was selected by Wiltshire Air Ambulance for the place it obtained in the London Marathon in April 2018. He had to raise a minimum of £2,500 but raised a fantastic £3,150.

Ian, 43 and who works in vehicle quality at Honda in Swindon, said: “The amount raised is incredible. I can’t thank people enough for supporting me, they have been so generous.

Ian, who ran the London Marathon in memory of Royal Wootton Basset GP Dr Jerry Marshall, went through the pain barrier to complete the race after sustaining an injury and contending with the hottest temperature on record. Ian was inspired to carry on fundraising for Wiltshire Air Ambulance by running the Swindon Half Marathon last month and raised £569.10.

The money made from the quiz night I held for the London Marathon was massive, something I never expected. “And the car wash I did at Royal Wootton Bassett Fire Station for the Swindon Half was a success too, considering it was a short notice event. Also, Honda have been very generous, donating towards the London Marathon and the Swindon Half.” Ian is going to continue to raise funds for Wiltshire Air

Ambulance as he has signed up to run the Bath Half Marathon in March 2019. He added: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to be a part of the charity, raising vital funds and making people aware of the lifesaving work it does. The staff are amazing, they are like a big family and that makes it more enjoyable to support and be a part of. I have felt proud to have pulled on the colours of Wiltshire Air Ambulance in London and Swindon and I can’t wait for the Bath Half!” Kenresa Stratford, Events Coordinator at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “Ian’s enthusiasm for both the London Marathon and the Swindon Half Marathon has been infectious. We are very grateful for the support he has given the charity and the funds he has raised will help to keep our lifesaving service operational. “We looking forward to welcoming Ian back to Team WAA for the Bath Half Marathon on 17 March 2009. If you have been inspired by Ian, we have places available on our team for the Bath Half. If you are running the London Marathon in 2019 and would like to raise funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance we’d be delighted to hear from you. Please get in touch by emailing hello@wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or call 01225 300536.” 17

The Swindonia

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Trick or Treat @ Wyvern

Wishbone Ash @ Arts Centre

Highworth Fireworks

Best of Wham @ Wyvern Theatre Tour Backstage @ Wyvern

Christmas

Lights Sw On in Town Centre Amazing Feats of Lonliness @

Wyvern Theatre

STFC

Firework Lydiard Polo Grou

Dean Saunders @ County Ground

www.theswindonian.co.uk

Festival o Light @

Longleat

ks @ & und

Pub Quiz @ Beehive

Charity Roller Derby @ Oasis

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witch n

Old Town Lights

Switch On

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Ask AMS

70+ videos on YouTube ‘Ask AMS Accountancy’ What happens when you borrow money from your Company Account? It’s a ‘Directors Loan’. Many director/shareholders borrow money from their Companies but, if they repay it within 9 months of the following accounting year end date, there are no great tax implications for the Company. If the deadline is missed, the Company must pay 32.5% of the outstanding loan to HMRC – who will hold it until it has been repaid to the Company. You can re-borrow it if it’s below £15,000 which can be then be re-borrowed if more than 30 days later. HMRC could also treat loans over £15,000 as not repaid if they believe it was intended that the loan would then be re-borrowed. In practice you can borrow money from your Company – but be aware of the rules. Peter Bromiley ACA 01793 818400 @AMSAccountancy www.ams-accountancy.co.uk

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

“We invite everyone to get their teeth stuck into The Big Eat and get messy for Jessie – in the kitchen!” The charity, which has an office in Rombourne’s Kingston House in Swindon, is taking part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge from November 27th to December 4th to help raise enough money to welcome 11 life limited children to their case load.

Fork out for Jessie May! Local children’s charity Jessie May has launched a new ‘foodie fundraising’ campaign to inspire Swindon and Wiltshire supporters to get creative in the kitchen while helping raise money. Jessie May’s brand new fundraiser, ‘The Big Eat’, asks individuals, schools, groups and businesses to ‘eat big!’ and rally donations for the children’s hospice at home charity. Those taking part are encouraged to cook, eat, diet or compete in aid of Jessie May, whose nurses provide vital respite care to local terminally ill children across Swindon and Wiltshire. Julian Withers, Head of Fundraising and Communications at Jessie May, said: “We’re so excited to announce the launch of

The Big Eat! This is an all-inclusive campaign which we hope will bring together supporters and their friends, families and colleagues – while of course encouraging people to ‘fork out’ and donate to a worthy cause. “From office ‘Bake Offs’ to street parties, there are plenty of ways everyone can get involved – just take a look at our Big Eat Fundraising Pack for inspiration. Anyone taking part can share their photos and efforts online using #JessieMaysBigEat and we will gladly share them too! “And there’s never been a better time to get involved – Jessie May is taking part in this year’s Big Give Christmas Challenge which means during one week only in November, every penny donated to our charity will be doubled!

Jessie May is currently supporting over 180 families across its service area; some of which are receiving vital respite care, emotional support, and others bereavement support. Julian added: “The Big Give is a fantastic opportunity for our supporters to make their donations go twice as far – literally! “While The Big Eat is a separate fundraiser which will continue to run long after The Big Give week comes to an end, we hope as many people as possible can submit their donations during this special week so we can reach our £23,100 target. “There are families caring for a terminally ill child in our operating area currently not receiving our respite and bereavement care. Raising these vital funds would mean 11 of these children, and their families, can be supported by Jessie May nurses.” To find out more about The Big Eat, and download Jessie May’s Big Eat Fundraising Pack, visit: www.jessiemay.org.uk/the-big-eat

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Swindon Social Enterprise Network Launch SE as.

that appreciate the value that the growth of SE will bring to Swindon. The current steering group consists of 10 members representing SE’s and local businesses operating in Swindon. The new Swindon Social Enterprise Network (SSEN) will be formally launched at a lunchtime event at 12.30 to 14:30 on Wednesday 14th November at the Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square, SN1 5BP. The SSEN hope to bring together a diverse group of people and organisations who share a common passion; to support the growth of social enterprise initiatives within Swindon via collaboration, and the sharing of skills, resources, knowledge & experience. The network is an unincorporated community voluntary interest group ran and sponsored by individualsandorganisations

What the network will aspire to offer: •

Monthly networking events with guest speakers of direct relevance to SE.

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Business start-up support for those wanting to know how to go about starting up an SE.

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Business modules: Such as funding, finance/accounting, sales & marketing, human resources, health & safety etc.

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Advice on the most appropriate legal entity to establish an

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Working with the colleges and sixth forms to introduce students to the idea of SE.

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Interaction with organisations and community groups representing those furthest from employment. Education on such subjects as: Community funding, social investment bonds and social outcome evaluation.

Numbers are limited at the event and tickets will be issued on a “first come, first served basis” anyone wishing to attend with an interest in social enterprise may book a place via the following website www.ssenlaunch2018. eventbrite.co.uk

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Ferndale Community Arts Day On Saturday 13th October the staff, children , parents and community came together to start the transformation of an outdoor area. It was an unused and unloved area and our job was to clear all the weeds, trim trees and bushes and start to erect and position our all weather teepees and AstroTurf. We also had parents make us a bug house that the children filled and prepared ready for winter. The children had a really important role to play by creating their own unique pebbles with words on to become part of our permanent river of words.

As a school we are having a real focus on vocabulary and enriching this in every part of the school and outside was a perfect place. Along with this children and parents made bird feeders, spider webs and fairy doors. We even had a cafe with homemade cakes for the community to relax and chat. It was a huge success and phase 1 of our transformation had started so successfully and it left parents and children with suspense and excitement of what this area was going to look like in the end. On Wednesday 24th October, teacher training day, phase 2 transformation began with 20 volunteers All workers got to work, making teepees, creating paths with stones, planting planters, clearing the pond area and bedding the stones into the river. We can’t wait to see the children’s faces when we return after half term. We have been so lucky and want to thank Homebase for donating their amazing plants, Buildbase for

donating the wood and Thames Water for their donation. Also Sansums, Carpet Right And Wickes. Without all of the companies donations and generosity this area wouldn’t be looking as Fantastic as it does.

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

But First, Tea.

Just a Swindon Mum winging my way through life with my boy. or the things that will get me back to feeling more like me. I’ve always known I’m an introvert and extremely sensitive.

Be More Kind With ‘World Mental Health Day’ having just passed and the amazing coverage it now receives (rightly so), it got me thinking about my own mental well-being, particularly in relation to being a parent and the everyday struggles that we can all face. I don’t have a mental health condition, which makes me extremely lucky. I know plenty of people who do and they are true warriors for battling their conditions and getting through each day. However, just because I don’t suffer from a particular condition that may require treatment, that doesn’t mean I don’t have the occasional struggle or ‘hard time’ emotionally or mentally. It also doesn’t mean that I don’t need to take care of myself and be able to recognise triggers for a downhill turn in my mood,

I don’t mind these qualities, but there are often instances (particularly with being a parent) where they can be a hindrance and cause me distress. I was never an NCT Mum, or particularly keen on joining baby groups unless it was something that would benefit my son, and always preferred the company of my well-established and familiar friends. Over the years that hasn’t really changed, and neither has my social anxiety and desire to stay away from potentially awkward or uncomfortable situations where I might be unwelcome, judged, or even ignored and excluded. I think some of this roots back to my school experiences and bullying, but it’s also just part of my personality. I’ve got better, but I still have times when it’s just all too much. Unfortunately it’s almost impossible to avoid such situations, and it’s sad that even as adults we have to endure ‘school gate’ moments of anxiety about meeting other parents, fitting in and being accepted. I imagine some parents have no such worries, but I suspect a large number experience similar feelings, even if they don’t manifest as anxiety but

more simply as feeling ‘uncomfortable’. I recently took my little boy to a birthday party and while he had a brilliant time, I spent the whole time wanting to leave and spent the journey home in tears. It wasn’t anyone’s fault, but I felt so anxious and uncomfortable and I just knew that I didn’t want to be in that situation.

While I will never deprive my boy of having fun and going to such events, I am learning that if my mind isn’t in the right place, they really are not good for me. Luckily, a walk to the park followed by cuddles on the sofa sorted me out this time and I was able to shake it off. It’s not always so easy. I guess my point is that mental well-being, even if you think you have a healthy mind, is so important. Knowing what is good for you and what is not, is also important. Be kind to yourself, be forgiving of your own traits or quirks and spoil yourself with the things that make your mind happy or calm. And be kind to others, always. As the saying goes, you have no idea of someone else’s struggles, so just be kind.

Email me: butfirstteamum@outlook.com

BFT x 25

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

To win family tickets to a movie of your choice, please email us the words “WIN TICKETS” to the email address below? Please send your email to us at getintouch@theswindonian.co.uk Closing date for the competition is the 20th November 2018

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Congratulations to Corinne Hornett for winning the October Competition. Good luck for November! Remember closing date for the competition is the 20th November 2018

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Mabuhay! (Filipino greeting for ‘welcome’) The Swindonian’s Travel Counsellor, Allan Trinidad was born in the Philippines and very keen to showcase the natural beauty of his motherland. With family and friends still in the Philippines, Allan tries to visit as much as he can and endorses as much of the Filipino culture and traditions in his family life, which generally involves large family gatherings and lots of food and merriment!

experience and diverse activities to do.

forever keen to practice their English linguistic skills with you!

Blessed with a rich natural environment containing lush forests, tropical islands, white sand beaches, lakes, rivers, mountains and crystal clear waters teaming with a host of marine life.

Renowned for their “happygo-lucky” nature and warm hospitality, let the Filipino people showcase you through what their country has to offer.

Paradise Found

The Filipino people are friendly, talented, hardworking, forever smiling and are always happy to welcome visitors and friends.

The Philippines are an archipelago of 7,107 islands so it offers countless destinations to see and explore, adventures to

The Philippines is the 4th largest population in the world that speak English so there is no language barrier and they are

If you are looking for a new adventure, something special, a destination more far-flung, less discovered, and one to tick off your bucket-list, look no further and come and explore The Philippines. Visit my dedicated Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ takemetothephilippines

Here are Allan’s Top 10 Facts about The Philippines: 1. Direct flights with Philippine Airlines from London Heathrow to Manila takes approximately 13 hours 2. The best time to visit The Philippines for cooler and dry weather is from November through February 3. The Philippine beaches of Boracay, Palawan and Cebu are regularly voted in the Top 10 beaches & islands in the world by various leading travel publications 4. Snorkelling and scuba diving is a must. The Philippines is abundant in coral species and marine life, whale sharks, manta rays & turtles 5. 6 UNESCO World Heritage sites can be found in The Philippines, 3 cultural and 3 natural 6. Of the top 10 largest shopping malls in the world, 3 are found in the Philippines: SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, and SM Mall of Asia 7. The Philippines is the world’s largest exporter of coconuts and tropical fruits, such as papaya and mangosteen 8. The Philippines is labelled the “Texting Capital of the World” and also the “Selfie Capital of the World”, sending over 400 million text messages everyday! 9. Filipinos observe the world’s longest Christmas season - from the 1st September and ends 1st week of January 10. Bruno Mars, Nicole Scherzinger and Enrique Iglesias have Filipino heritage

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Community News

Nadine Watts & Jane Milner-Barry Old Town & East Wichel Councillors Potential Housing Site on The Lawns

The residents association gained a Level 3 award and is already gearing up for next year’s competition. More information on the “otra gardens” facebook page.

Among the potential housing sites identified in SBC’s “Strategic Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment” is one on the Lawns, between Greywethers Avenue and the footpath leading to Dorchester Road. Google “Swindon SHELAA 2018” for a link to the webpage. According to Swindon Council, “the site presents an opportunity to round off the cul-de-sac without significantly affecting the quality or quantity of open space at Lawns park”. SBC has asked for public comments. The deadline is 5.00 pm on Monday 12th November. Please email forwardplanning@swindon. gov.uk and quote the site reference number (the Lawns site is S0338).

New Parking Enforcement Powers

Swindon in Bloom

CCTV

This year, for the first time, Swindon took part in “Britain in Bloom”. The Old Town Residents Association entered the six flowerbeds they care for, including sites in Newport Street, Victoria Road, and by the Pipers Way roundabout.

Nadine & Jane welcome the installation of CCTV in Old Town. Old Town has been made safer as five new CCTV cameras are installed covering Wood Street, Devizes Road and Newport Street. The cameras are intended to help police

Residents can now report inconsiderate parking as the Council has implemented new powers. The Council can issue Penalty Charge Notices of up to £113 if drivers block dropped kerbs and driveways or double park. This move follows concerns raised by residents over the effect this type of parking has on pedestrians with pushchairs, mobility scooters, those with visual impairments and households with driveways. Residents can report offences online to the Council’s Parking and officers will then attend areas where complaints are raised.

tackle anti-social behaviour and have already helped police respond to incidents. Contact details: Please contact your Labour councillors. Call Nadine on 07595 071381 or Jane on 07864 839746 or email oldtown@swindonlabour. co.uk

Stratton St Margaret News Update From Barrie Jennings Swindon Council Waste Strategy Swindon Council has recently presented a new waste strategy which will affect all residents on how we will have our recycling collected. Some of the proposals they have presented includes: •

The ending of Plastics Recycling Collection plastics would be collected in the black bin rather than separately from other waste and recyclables.

•

Stop collecting black bins that contain excessive amounts of recyclable material (but the Council would not be considering plastics as recycling material).

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•

Charging residents for additional recycling boxes.

I am concerned about the Council’s plan to end all plastics recycling collection as the Council is currently only recycling 38% of Swindon’s waste as it stands. The government expect Swindon and other places around the country to be recycling at least 50% of our overall waste. Currently there is no penalty for not meeting the government’s target but that could change in the future. The link to information about the proposals and information are available here: https://www.sustainableswindon.co.uk/intro Keypoint Incinerator The Keypoint Incinerator Appeal Hearing will start on 22 January 2019. The developers are hoping to overturn the Council’s decision to reject their proposal. Here is the latest information provided by the campaign group SKIP (Stop Keypoint Incinerator Project): 1. Swindon Council have appointed a planning lawyer (a QC) and a Waste Consultant to present their case opposing the incinerator. 2. SKIP are concerned about the Council’s plans to

end plastics collection for recycling as they believe it will mean more demand for incineration and this will not help the Council’s case in January if it is opposing a waste incinerator on the one hand and implementing a waste policy, which means more incineration capacity will be required, on the other. Contact details: If you have any local issues or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can call me on 07944740562 or email

1strattonjennings@gmail.com

Eastcott News Councillor Stan Pajak Police and Crime Commissioner(PCC) Angus Macpherson says Wiltshire receives unfair funding as crime rises Angus Macpherson Wiltshire and Swindon’s PCC has stated in his yearly overview that Wiltshire still receives unfair funding from central government.

The maximum rise for policing allowed for by Government which is combined in your council tax and amounts to £12 has allowed Angus to maintain the numbers in community policing – the bedrock of Wiltshire Police at 445 police officers and 131 police community support officers. Significantly the extraordinary nerve agent attack in Salisbury in March cost Wiltshire Police a staggering £10M but to date, the Home Office has only reimbursed £6.6M. One of my biggest complaints has been the poor response to people ringing the non emergency number 101. The commissioner states he has invested some £250,000 to improving it but alas as yet nearly everybody who talks to me has yet to see an improvement. Without doubt the government is failing Swindon and Wiltshire in terms of police funding and fail to realize how important it is to people.

This means amid crime rising in the county and Swindon by 5% we receive less money to spend protecting the public than almost all other areas of England and Wales.

Eastcott News Councillor Stan Pajak Mobile 07711039789 Email: stanpajak@ymail.com 31

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

the Iron Maiden frontman but this is a rock band very much of the modern moment. Sky-scraping and cinematic but also choke-full of big riffs and fantastic dynamic interplay, this is the sound of forward thinking rock music securing its own future. Progressive rock fans should note that former Tangent man Guy Manning is bringing his new band Damanek to The Victoria on 27th November in support of their glorious debut album In Flight.

Musical Musings and on 15th November you can catch up with his solo career since and perhaps a few old favourites, including THAT song!

They sit midway between a lot of musical way points but these certainly include Yes, Pendragon and The Alan Parsons Project and the result is an eloquent, poignant and beautiful sound. They bring with them Southern Empire who plough a harder edged but no less elegant sonic furrow.

Two days later you find them hosting Milk Teeth at The Victoria, a band from Stroud who have really made a mark on the scene in the short time that they

And finally if something with a more rootsy and old-time feel is required, Mark Harrison plays a solo gig at The Tuppenny on 6th December.

with Dave Franklin It is safe to say that those

splendid chaps at Sheer Music have a bit of an exciting musical month, but then again itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what they have been doing for over a decade now so we shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised. They kick things off at Level III with a night of acoustic music as Tony Wright brings his solo tour to town. You will remember Tony as the front man for Terrorvision

have been around through blending punk rawness, a garage rock swagger and the sort of melody and infectiousness that is normally associated with pop music. Punk music designed for serious dancing! But for me they have saved the best till last in the guise of SHVPES, again at Level III on 19th November. Frontman Griffin Dickinson may be the son of

Expect music that blends timeless blues textures and unique folk sounds to tell wondrous stories and that somehow bridges a gap between early 20th century and early 21st century styles.

Stage Coach

THESWINDONIAN.CO.UK // NOVEMBER 2018

Doctor Who returned to our screens in October wrapped in a new mix of its famous and evocative theme tune.

But if we were to travel back in time to the early 60’s we’d discover that the original tune had to be painstakingly assembled, note by note, by Delia Derbyshire.

War, two enemy soldiers face each other on the battlefield with just an hour of the conflict left to run. Prime Theatre present ‘11th Hour’, a new play by ‘Horrible Histories’ author Terry Deary. The play has just completed a 25 date school tour and will be appearing, for one night only, at the Wyvern on 13th November.

With Ben Thomas

the pen of Noël Coward. TS Theatre Productions present ‘Fallen Angels’ at the Swindon Art Centre on 19th November. And then we tumble back further to the 1890’s to witness ‘Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime’. The Western Players are staging this effervescent comedy, based on a short story by Oscar Wilde, at the Art Centre between 14th and 17th November. Finally our time travelling adventures end in 1881 where we witness ‘Edward Gant’s Amazing Feats of Loneliness’; a series of bizarre sketches presented by the eponymous enigmatic impresario.

An innovative and daring composer, she is considered by some to be the mother of electronic music. A play celebrating her largely forgotten life and work, ‘Hymn for Robots’ by Noctium Theatre, visits the Shoebox Theatre on 9th & 10th November. Meanwhile, further back at the very end of the Great 34

Next we tick a few years forward to the Roaring 1920’s for a tale of cocktails, gossip and potential adultery from

Mr Gant and his troop of eccentric outcasts are appearing at the Wyvern Theatre Spotlight Room on 23rd & 24th of November. I hope it’s good. I’m in it.

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