jan 2015

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NOTE FROM THE EDITORSHappy New Year to all our readers and welcome to our January edition of Anything Swindon.

As is customary at the beginning of a new year, our thoughts turn to health and fitness. If you need a helping hand to keep to those New Year resolutions, read about the fantastic ideas Louise at Slimming World is offering to ensure you keep on track. And you can get fit and raise money for a good cause at the same time! The Prospect Hospice talks to us about its plans for 2015; both runners and walkers are needed to start off the New Year fundraising programme.

We are not alone when it comes to watching our waist-lines. Drove vets discuss with us the implications of obesity in our cats and dogs, whilst Hilary at Wagging Tails reminds us that regular exercise for our pets means regular exercise for us too.

This month, we speak with the team at the National Self Build Centre ahead of their Self Build & Renovation Show – a must for anyone contemplating building or renovating.

Our monthly update from Swindon College Old Boys takes a look at how their year ended, whilst for Head Teacher, Mr McAteer, it’s all about new beginnings as he talks to us about the Holy Cross School under construc-tion on Queens Drive.

We look back at our visit to the Wyvern Theatre where we lost ourselves in the performance of this year’s fan-tastic pantomime, Dick Whittington. Oh yes we did!

Feeling lucky? We have regular competitions in which you can win family tickets to Empire Cinema and Swindon Wildcats.

Ian and I are pleased to announce that in 2015, the Anything Swindon magazine will cover new areas of Swindon. Our page count will be expanded to ensure a fair balance of readable and editorial content with advertising. As more and more businesses enquire about marketing, we will continue to create a platform of informative content for Central Swindon residents, whilst offering local businesses the opportunity to reach a large audience.

If you have plans for 2015 that you would like to share with us, please get in touch with the team at [email protected] For all marketing opportunities, contact me at [email protected] or drop in to our Town Centre office in Morley Street.

Happy reading!

Graham & Ian

Ed: Ian E: [email protected]

Ed: Graham E: [email protected]

Advertising: Telephone 01793 977117

INSIDE THE JANUARY ISSUE

04 MAIN FEATURE Our main feature comes from the guys at the NSBRC in Swindon.

08 PETS AND MORE Drove vets provide more valuable advice, also a great piece by Wagging Dogs.

07 COMPETITION UPDATES New competitions and also an update on some of our prev winners.

10 PROSPECT UPDATE Andrew Thompson from the Prospect Hospice updates us on their plans for 2015

11 COUNCILLOR UPDATES The latest in what’s happening from your local councillor’s.

1 13 14 EMPIRE SWINDON MOVIE NEWS! Whats new at the Movies this January

17 SLIMMING WORLD FEATURE Looking to shed a few pounds in 2015? See what Louise and her team can offer

18 WYVERN THEATRE A review of this years Panto, Dick Whittington Starring Nigel Havers

24 WHAT’S ON? Stuck for something to do? Check out the what’s on section for ideas.

27 SPORTS Our monthly check in with SCOB.

NSBRC Main Feature

The National Self Build & Reno-vation Centre (NSBRC) is one of Swindon’s hidden gems. Lo-cated on Junction 16 of the M4, just beside the Hilton Hotel, the Centre welcomes people from all over the UK who are design-ing & building their own houses or looking to renovate or improve their existing homes. In fact, since opening in 2007, almost a quarter of a million people have visited the Centre seeking independent building advice and support.

This permanent Visitor Centre is unique, with no other venue like it in the UK. Harvey Frem-lin, General Manager, says;

“Our aim is to inspire, educate and provide impartial advice for our visitors so they can make well informed decisions during their projects. Visitors enjoy access to free advice provided by our ‘Technical Helpdesk’, staffed by our own experts with years of experi-ence in construction & planning”.

The huge Centre features a beautifully finished, timber frame show home by Potton and also hosts the ‘Trade Vil-lage’ (a permanent exhibition area), where hundreds of the latest products and services are on display, along with fan-tastic New Build and Renova-tion educational zones with

life-size examples of wall sys-tems, roofs, foundations and much more.

Open 6 days a week (Tues-Sun), the NSBRC hosts a vari-ety of shows & workshops to complement its daily offering. Harvey tells us about their next event;

“The new year is a natural time to consider making improve-ments to your home. We can help anyone considering an extension, loft conversion, con-servatory or even buying a plot of land and building a brand new home. The ‘Self Build & Renovation Show’ is packed with presentations, guided tours and experts offering

free advice. We would love to see more people fromSwindon discover our Centre and the show is the perfect time to come along. Tickets are free and we’ll even buy you a coffee!”

More details of the Centre and the ‘Self Build & Renovation Show’ can be found at: www.nsbrc.co.uk

FREE tickets can be claimed using booking code: Swindon2

Simply show your copy of

‘Anything Swindon’ to the

NSBRC team on arrival to

claim your free hot drink!

One of Swindon’s hidden gems!

NSBRC Main Feature

ANYTHING SWINDON WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK TEL: 01793 977117 PAGE 5

NSBRC Main Feature

1. Avoid a money pit!

Renovating a house can be one of the most rewarding experi-ences of your life and with careful planning can also be one of your best investments. A full structural survey is abso-lutely essential before you buy. A survey by a qualified expert will identify exactly what work needs doing and therefore if the project is economically viable.

2. Assess the properties potential

Renovation is primarily con-cerned with making an exist-ing dwelling into a better one. This might include extending the living spaces or developing attics or basements. Conver-sions turn a property that was previously not a dwelling into a home. For any project you need to work out the pos-sibilities, calculate the costs and understand the value your work can yield.

3. Know the local area

Just like when buying any home – get familiar with local property prices. You need to be wary of over-developing or specifying too high a quality home for the typical values in the neighbourhood.

4. Don’t forget VAT

Unlike a new build project where VAT can be reclaimed against materials, this is not the case for most renovations. However – if the house was unoccupied for 2 years or more before any work commenced a reduced rate of 5% VAT on materials and labour can be charged by a VAT registered builder.

5. Reduce your energy bills

Renovations are a great op-portunity to improve the performance of the property and reduce its running costs by improving and increasing the levels of insulation.

6. Visit the Renovation House at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre!

Our Renovation House is typi-cal of a property built in the inter-war years and has clearly had very little maintenance work done to it. As you move through this full-size house you will be guided through identi-fying and resolving the most common problems encoun-tered during a project, taking you through the key stages from dilapidation to comple-tion.

Enjoy a 30 minute audio

tour or, at 2pm every

Friday, walk around with

our resident expert, Neil.

Book your visit at:

www.nsbrc.co.uk

Here are our sixtop tips to makingyour own Renovationproject a success.


Congratulations to all our previous winners!December Issue: Cinema Comp Winner - Lisa Sawyer... Well done!

December Issue: Wildcats Comp Winner - Karen Reynolds... Well done!

November Issue: Dick Whittington Comp Winner - Penelope Wood... Well done!

November Issue: Wildcats Comp Winner - Jasmine Lim Well done!

November Issue: Pizza Express Comp Winners x2 - Martin Hale, and Jo Haveral... Well done!

Win a Family ticket to a Family film of your choice!To win the tickets, When is Channing Tatums Date of Birth? Email your answer to us at

[email protected] Answer to be recieved by 20th January 2015.

Win tickets to see The Swindon Wildcats!To win the tickets, Who are Swindon Wildcats playing on Sat 17 Jan 2015 6pm? Email your

answer to us at [email protected] Answer to be recieved by 20th January 2015.

Competitions Update

Pets

New Year is often a time when people think about their health and resolutions to go to the gym or start a diet are made (and subse-quently broken!). One thing that many people are unaware of is the health benefits of having a dog in the home.

These benefits go far beyond the physical im-provements associated with gym membership or dieting.

Writing in the British Journal of Health Psy-chology Dr Deborah Wells reviewed a number of previous research papers concluding that dog ownership can be shown to help prevent us from becoming ill, facilitate recovery from ill-health, reduce levels of anxiety,

loneliness and depression as well as enabling greater social interaction for owners. Health psychologist Dr June McNicholas agrees with this final point, observing that the opportunity for social interaction that comes with having a dog is a major reason for the increased health in dog owners while adding that,

“For older people, an animal can fulfil the ‘need to be needed’, perhaps after children have left home. In some cases, the social support of-fered by an animal is greater than the support another human could offer.”

Dog ownership obviously brings with it a large amount of responsibility and commitments something that many, for a number of reasons, are unwilling or unable to take on.

A four pawed health kick for 2015!

Wagging Tails carer Sandra Reeves with Christmas guests Cyril and Olive

You don’t necessarily have to own a dog to gain these benefits as many charities are often looking for puppy walkers or dog foster families.

Sandra Reeves took another route and joined dog boarding company Wagging Tails as a dog carer. She now welcomes guest dogs into her home for their holidays when their owners go away and in addition to the health benefits of having dogs around also receives a small payment for looking after her four-legged guests.

“It is a great opportunity to meet so many different types of dogs and characters. It provides me with lots of long walks and I get to meet so many other dog owners when out and about, making lots of new friends in the process.”

To find out more about becoming a Wagging Tails carer please visit www.waggingtailsuk.co.uk


Drove Pets Update

Vet Column by DroveVeterinary Hospital

Obesity in Cats and Dogs

Obesity has, unfortunately, reached epidemic proportions in this country for our counterparts we refer to as our pets.

Obesity has now become one of the most com-mon nutritional problems we see in practice. Statistics state that close to 50% of all dogs are overweight and more than 20% of cats need to shed pounds. Older, indoor cats top all of these groups; some studies report obesity in 60% of these cats which is a worrying statistic to see. It is important to understand as owners that over-weight pets are unhealthy.

They face a variety of weight-related diseases, and a shorter, more painful life. But our pets do not decide when and how much they eat. As their owners, we control what they eat, when they ex-ercise, and ultimately, their weight. With obesity comes other potential problem which more com-monly include;

• Cardiac problems, due to strain on the heart and circulation

• Poor exercise tolerance and excessive panting

• Increased risk of developing chest condi-tions such as bronchitis

• Additional stress on the limbs, joints and spine

• Increased likelihood of arthritis, rheumatism and back problems developing

How can you tell if your pet is overweight? The common tell-tale signs can include;

• A sluggish demeanour

• Excessive panting, especially in hot weather

• Falling behind on walks

• A reluctance to exercise. This compounds the problem, as fewer and fewer calories are used up and, consequently, stored as fat

As a simple test, stand over your animal and check if you can see a waistline. There should be a depres-sion, even if only slight, behind the ribcage, rather than a bulge. Viewed from the side, the abdomen should not sag and, running your hands over the chest area, it should be possible to feel the ribs fairly easily.

A better way to approach the problem is to try and weigh your animal. Arrange a visit to your local veterinary practice where they will be able to pro-vide you with an opportunity to discuss your pet’s weight problem, any worries you have and they will always be able to start you on a controlled weight loss programme specifically designed for your pet.Remember that the best way to avoid your pet becoming overweight is to feed them with a good nutritional diet, correctly weighed out for their stat-ure and weight but most importantly to exercise your pet regularly and appropriately.

Please don’t hesitate to contact your Vet – Remem-ber in Every Fat Pet there is a Thin pet just longing to get out!

If you need any further information then

please contact your local Vetfor advice.

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE TELEPHONE: (01793) 522483 www.drovevets.co.uk

In more severe cases with their excess weight your pets are also at risk to more complicated and life threatening conditions such as diabetes, cancer, liver disease, urinary problems (specifi-cally in cats), reduced natural resistance to infection, poor immune system function and sadly a much shorter life expectancy.

Prospect Hospice kicks off its New Year fundrais-ing programme with a call out for runners and walkers to sign up for two very different events at the start of 2015.

Now in its third year, Prospect Hospice’s 10k running event is a cross-country challenge that in previous years runners have joined as an early season test of their readiness for the season ahead.

It has also attracted a good number of runners who have seen it as an opportunity to develop as runners and raise much-needed money for the Wroughton-based charity.

“We have been delighted at how popu-lar our 10k event has become in just two years,” says organiser Mike Ken-nedy. “It’s definitely a challenging run over all kinds of terrain, and if previous years are anything to go by, you can be sure there will be mud, but it’s become a popular event for local runners, and we are hopeful that even more runners will sign up for this year’s 10k.”

The Prospect 10k is on Sunday 22 February 2015, starts and finishes at the Nationwide Pavilion on Piper’s Way, and registration costs £15 per runner, with a suggested sponsorship targetof £100.

Prospect’s Walk of Memories at Buscot Park on the 15 March is a much more peaceful event, and is suited to the whole family. This calm and reflec-tive event, which allows out-of-season access to the beautiful grounds of Buscot Park owned by Lord & Lady Faringdon, it is an easy walk of around five kilometres, and is often completed in memory of a loved one.

Registration for the Walk of Memories is £8 per adult and £3 per child, and there is a suggested sponsorship target of £80 per person or £150 for a family.

For further details of these two events, and to view more of Prospect Hospice’s fundraising events calendar for 2015, Please Visit www.prospect-hospice.net/supporter

Prospect Hospice looks for both runners & walkers to get 2015 fundraising started.

Registered Charity Number: 280093

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Prospect Update


Swindon Safe & Warm

This offer is expected to end by 31st March 2015. These measures are still

the most effective ways of reducing heating bills, so act now and feel the benefit!

To arrange your free no-obligation survey through the only Local Authority

backed scheme in Swindon contact David Miles on

t: 01793 463679 or e: [email protected] Homes in certain parts of Swindon attract 100% funding regardless of the above criteria - we’ll check this as well!

Cost for cavity wall insulation

Cost for loft insulation

Receiving income or disability benefit Free Free

Over 80 years old or Registered disabled or capable of being registered disabled Free Free

Over 70 years old or Council Tax Band A or B property or Child under 4 (and must be Council Tax Band A, B or C)

£50 £50

Swindon resident not in any of above groups£99 £99

All grants are subject to available funding, eligibility criteria and technical survey, and homes may need to be built before 1992 to qualify.

Reduce your fuel bills this winter with great value home insulation through Safe & Warm!Swindon Borough Council has now reopened its insulation scheme for this winter and is looking to help those households who meet the following criteria:

Councillor Updates

Old Town News - Cllr Nadine Watts - 07595 071381 - [email protected]

Angel Ridge play area looks fantastic. It is very nearly complete. At time of writing, we are waiting for the tarmacking to be finished. The official opening should be in January. Following public concern regard-ing planning application S/14/1683 for a biomass burner on the Central Trading Estate, Signal Way, I have called this in to be considered by the planning committee. This should be discussed early next year.

As always, it is good to go out and speak to residents in Old Town and help with any local issues. Please let me know if there is anything that I can help with.

Application for 62 Dwellings at Croft RoadAs the local councillor for Old Town I wanted to write to update you on the latest information regarding

the planning application from Taylor Wimpey for 62 dwellings at the bottom of Croft Road. I opposed this

planning application, as it is not in the local plan and I think this land should act as a buffer between the

existing houses on Croft Road and East Another extension of time of the application determination date

has been agreed. A decision on this proposal should now be made this month.

Taylor Wimpey is awaiting the Planning Inspector’s report on the proposed modifications for the emerging

local plan which is due out soon. From what I have heard from planning officers, it doesn’t seem that the

Local Plan will change significantly enough to influence the outcome of this application. The decision is al-

most certain to be to refuse this planning application. It would actually be preferable for residents, if Taylor

Wimpey were to withdraw the application (which I believe they are considering), as there would then be

no opportunity for them to take the planning application to appeal. I am aware that this has been going on

for some time now. As soon as there is more news residents can be reassured I will let them know.

Rodbourne Cheney Councillors

We have every sympathy for people currently suffering the effects of the road works in and around Rod-bourne Cheney. We argued prior to the commencement of the works, and continue to argue, that these works, while necessary, should have been better scheduled so that so much disruption could be avoided.

To tackle the traffic problems in the long-term, your local councillors have long campaigned for a road linking Thamesdown Drive with Great Western Way. Both MPs support the road and we cannot under-stand why, when Central Government is keen to put money into local infrastructure projects, Swindon Council are not also fully supporting the road. Your local councillors will continue to campaign for the road.

Councillor Jim Grant- 07814380178; [email protected]

Councillor Des Moffatt- 07709066707; [email protected]

Councillor Peter Watts- 01793 529163; [email protected]

Penhill & Upper Stratton Councillors- Joe Tray, Teresa Page, Paul Baker Councillors

In December agreement was reached for a new polling station in Penhill after complaints earlier this year from some elderly and disabled residents in Penhil who were struggling to vote because of the distance they had to travel to the polling station. The new polling station is the Penhill Children’s Centre.

At the behest of calls from local residents and local councillors, Swindon Council are currently investigat-ing the possibility of alleviating the parking challenges in Penhill through creating the capacity in council homes for tenants to park their cars, therefore reducing the numbers of cars parking on the road. The Council will be in touch with tenants about this.

Councillors Fay Howard, Derique Montaut & Neil Heavens

We wish you all a very Happy New Year. Whilst the Conservative Council has reduced the number of Chil-

dren’s Centres, please be assured that Goddard Park Children’s Centre remains open. There is family sup-

port work and a number of groups running in Park South. ‘Songs, Rhymes & Storytime’ Tuesdays 2-3pm

at Park Library and ‘Little Fishes’ Parent & toddler group 10-11.30am on Thursdays at St Johns Church. If

you need to get in touch, our next Councillor surgery is on Sat 7th February 10-11am at The Shop or, please

contacts us on Tel 07952350656.

Stratton St.Margaret and South Marston Update

We have had a busy few months working on a variety of issues relating to the Council’s budget, planning, highways, welfare benefits, tree planning and supporting local events. We are available to meet residents on the first Saturday of each month from 10-11 at Grange Drive Community Centre or are happy to arrange to meet residents at other times. If we can help with any issues please do contact us. Residents should also have received our recent survey and we welcome all responses.Councillors Russell Holland [email protected] Colin Lovell [email protected] John Haines [email protected]


Mp Update

Swindon MPs Pledge To Support Carers Local MPs, Justin Tomlinson and Robert Buckland, have spoken out on national Carers’ Rights Day to support Carers UK’s campaign urging people caring for ill or disabled loved ones to find out about the financial and practical support they are entitled to. There are an estimated 19,480 carers across Swindon and around 6.5 million unpaid carers in the UK, who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £119 billion each year. Justin & Robert have both worked closely with local and national organisations to highlight the vital work of carers and are looking forward to the forthcoming national Carers Trust Reception, which will see carers from Swindon visit Parliament.

Robert Buckland MP said: “Carers are fulfilling a vital role in our society, but too often they go without the support they need because they don’t know about the support available.” Justin Tomlinson MP said: “We must all play a role in helping to identify and support people who are looking after ill, frail or disabled loved ones and making sure they get the right infor-mation and advice about the support they are entitled to as early as possible.” Autumn Statement Changes Locally we have been feeling the benefits of this strong economic progress. Since 2010, 7,400 more people in Swindon have found jobs - a staggering 50% fall in unemployment. Whilst 7,010 people have started an apprenticeship and 86,074 Swindon residents have received an income tax cut in the last 4 years. But there is still more to be done to ensure that this progress continues and to reward those who have worked hard to contribute to our national recovery:

• A cut in Stamp Duty to 98% of homes in the UK, saving £4,500 on an average family home

• Abolishing the planned rise in fuel duty so that prices at the pumps continue to fall

• Abolishing the 55% death tax so that pensioners can pass on their pensions cash free

• An increase in the personal tax allowance, equivalent to a tax cut of £825

• Scrapping Air Passenger Duty for children, a welcome boost for local families

• VAT rebates for hospices (Prospect) & Air Ambulances (Wiltshire)

• A 25% ’Starbucks tax’ on the profits of large multi-national corporations who divert their profits offshore

• A new tax on banks which will see them pay an extra £4 billion each year

• An extra £2bn per year for the NHS

• An extra £1.2bn to extend GP ServicesThe prosperity of households, job creators, schools, the NHS and other vital elements of our society, depend on a healthy economy and these important measure will help to deliver these.

Movie News

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WINWin a Family ticket to a Family film of your choice!

To win the tickets, When is Channing Tatums Date of Birth? Email your answer to us at

[email protected] Answer to be recieved by 20th January 2015. Good Luck!

For your 10% ANYTHING SWINDON DISCOUNT

Quote Ref: ANY10


Health & Beauty

Joining a Slimming World group can open the door to many op-portunities. Not only can you lose weight the Extra Easy way, and receive support through magical IMAGE therapy, you could find yourself in the shoes of a Consultant.

Louise Robins joined her local Slimming World group, primar-ily to lose weight. This Janu-ary she will be celebrating her third year as a Slimming World Consultant. “I will never forget the day I opened my doors at my Slimming World group, I was blown away. The Consultant role had never been something I had considered until a Team Devel-oper came along to the group where I was a member and spoke more about the role. She really made me consider how I could go out and make a dif-ference, just like my Consultant had done with me.” Slimming World are experiencing unprec-edented growth and are now on the search for more Consultants to meet the requirements of Swindon & the surrounding areas.

Louise Robins says: “We’re go-ing through a period of growth. In 45 years millions of people have changed their lives with

Slimming World’s brilliant com-bination of a hunger-busting eating plan, increased activ-ity and weekly group support. With obesity at an all-time high – 30 million adults (62%) in the UK are overweight or obese – and government predictions that 80% of men and 70% of women will be overweight or obese in the next decade – the demand for our unique warm and friendly approach has never been greater.

“At Slimming World we have the best eating plan in the world where members can, and do, lose weight without ever having to feel hungry,” says Louise. “We have the best understand-ing of the psychology of slim-mers and we choose Consult-ants for their empathy, warmth and understanding. We have the best training in the business too. Every Consultant who comes on board goes through an inten-sive programme and is awarded diplomas in aspects of nutrition and successfully running their own slimming business.”

Slimming World is looking for people who have lost weight themselves with the club, who can share their own weight-loss success to build a fabulous career.

There are also vacancies for experienced managers to help co-ordinate the work in the area and ensure that Slimming Worlds unique support is avail-able in every community.

“What appealed to me about the role was that I was able to fit it in around my full time role as a training manager. Slimming World provided me with all the training and support I needed and there are no qualification requirements. There really is someone supporting you every step of the way in your journey as a Consultant, just like there is for our members.”

If you are interested in the Consultant role, an oppor-tunity event is being held at Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road on Saturday 10th January at 1.30pm. “At the op-portunity event you will learn, more about the role without any form of pressure or hard sales technique. Personally I attend 3 nets before deciding to apply for the role” if you would like to attend the event you can call Louise on 07784098022 or call Penny at Slimming World headoffice on 0844 892 0434 or email [email protected] quoting reference RT500.

“Being a Consultant is life changing in so many ways. There is no better feeling than helping people lead healthier lives, seeing members come off medication, and helping mem-bers achieve their dreams.

Louise runs two sessions on a Saturday Morning at Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road at 9am and 11am.

Slimming World run groups throughout the town and you can find your nearest group by visiting www.slimmingworld.com or contact Louise directly for more information.

“We look forward to welcoming you at a group soon”

New Year, New You, New Career?

Slimming World Feature

ANYTHING SWINDON WWW.ANYTHINGSWINDON.CO.UK TEL:01793 977117 PAGE 19

2014 ended on a

high note for Will

writing company

Farsight Wills of

32 Commercial

Road, Swindon.

Nigel Schofield,

Senior Consult-

ant has picked up

a national award

for business levels achieved throughout that

year. Nigel said “This has been our best year by

far and it’s nice to receive recognition of that”.

Now it’s time to look toward 2015 and per-

suade those people who have organising a Will

or Lasting Power of Attorney on their ’to-do

list’ to get it done. It is so easy to put in place

and you definitely have a sense of relief once

it’s sorted.

Nigel Schofield, Senior Consultant picks up a national award.


Dick Whittington

A rags to riches story!No festive season would be the same in Swindon without a visit to The Wyvern Theatre for the Annual Pantomime production. The Screaming Media team came together for a night of fun at this year’s performance of Dick Whittington, before long we were Booing, Cheering and in some cases crying with laughter.

The cast were fantastic in bringing to life the story of Dick Whittington, Coronation Street star Nigel Havers was transformed from on screen rat to King Rat and was fantastic in his performance, David Ashley returned to the Wyvern Thea-tre playing Sarah the Cook in true Dame Style creating much of the laughter throughout.

This magical production was bought to life with an abun-dance of comedy, Beautiful sets and fabulous costumes, as is tradition with the Wyvern Theatre’s annual pantomime, Dick Whittington gave us plenty of audience participa-tion and even lost a few of us in a moment of embarrassing booing and jeering.

Great Venue, Great Show, Great Cast. We will definitely return for next year’s perfor-mance of Snow White & The seven Dwarfs!

Next Years Panto runs from Saturday 5 Decem-ber 2015 until Sunday 3 January 2016.

Check out the Wyvern Theatre website for more information or to book tickets. swindonthe-atres.co.uk or call the Ticket office on 01793 524 481

A Night at the Wyvern Theatre

I have noticed recently that maisonettes in Swindon provide good Yields. Talking with a prospec-tive landlord last week we got around to the subject of Maisonettes and whether they would make a good investment. (This particular landlord already has a portfolio in the Oxfordshire area and was looking to spread out into Wiltshire, but with a limited budget).

Maisonettes are not always the first choice for investors but they do rent well, either furnished orunfurnished, and can generally offer good yields due to the attractive purchase price. Provided theproperty is sensibly priced then they can provide a great option for landlords and are well worthconsidering for the first time investor.

We spent some time looking in detail, at three properties currently available for sale within theSN5 postcode area. One needed some refurbishment work and the other two were almost readyto go, once a few legal requirements were put in place. Taking legal costs, pre tenancy work, agency fees etc. into account, all three properties can achieve a yield of over 6%. When you also look at the current increase on sale prices, any one of these properties could see a capital growth of over 4% per year based on recent performance.

So when looking to invest it pays to spend some time looking at what the market has available and really doing your sums. Do not be too optimistic and work on hard facts. Talk to your agent, as they should understand how the market is preforming.

Alternatively you can always talk to me, Dave Whaley at Martin & Co Swindon for complimentaryadvice on 01793 487760.

(Various sources were used in compiling the information)

Property Section


Moving Forward2015 will be a significant one for Chappells

Estate Agents who are based in the Old Town.

Darron Bailey has joined the firm, working with Colin

Cox who established Chappells in 1986. Building on

the firm’s 28 successful years at the heart of Swin-

don’s residential property market, Darron brings a

wealth of fresh ideas and many years’ experience

to the team.

The property market has been strong throughout

2014, and with the Chancellors recent news about

the Stamp Duty reforms, should perform well in

2015.

If you are considering selling your property in 2015

and want an Estate Agency who works hard for you,

using traditional courtesy combined with the most

modern techniques, talk to Chappells!

Call Darron on 01793 618080 or email at [email protected]

Property Section

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

Jack & the Beanstalk

Immanuel Church, Upham Road, Swindon, SN3 1DH10 January to 17 January7:30pm to 9:30pm£6 Tickets/£5 Concessions01793 506169

Life Drawing Workshop

Moose Hall, Eastcott Road, Swindon, SN1 3LS11 January to 13 December10:00am to 4:00pm £[email protected] 895 195

Indoor Car Boot Sale

Savernake Street Social Hall, Savernake Street, Swindon, SN1 3LZ

25 January 9:00am to 11 [email protected] 07765400223

Lydiard Wedding Show

Lydiard House Conference Centre Wedding Show

Lydiard Park, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, SN5 3PA

11 January 201511:00am to 3:00pm

[email protected] 705669

The Brunel Centre Wedding Show

The Brunel Centre, Swindon, Swindon, SN1 1LF

25 January 201510:30am to 4:30pm

[email protected] 705669

Sat 03rd Jan: vs Guildford Flames, 6pm EPIHL

Sat 10th Jan: vs Manchester Phoenix, 6pm EPIHL

Sat 17th Jan: vs Telford Tigers, 6pm EPIHL

Sat 24th Jan: vs Peterborough Phantoms, 6pm EPIHL

Sat 31st Jan: vs Sheffield Steeldogs, 6pm EPIHL

WIN TICKETS TO THE WILDCATS!

SEE PAGE 07

Whats On?


‘A large selection of suitable cars at good prices’David Hutchfield 31st July

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Drakes Way, Swindon, SN3 3BWOpen late 7 days a weekTel: 0800 781 7735†

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“Forward Thinking”

By Gav Ellis

@GavEllis.IOW

Why, when you’re close to leavingDo you get a sudden emotion?Is it the strain and the heaving?Or the result of loyal devotion

You leave with the wishes of othersAnd the promise to keep in touch

With those who are now like brothersAnd those that won’t miss you as much

You start to enjoy your surroundingsAs you always hoped you might

You thoughts are of new groundingsThe tunnel opens up to the lightYou think of the effort and hoursThat got you to where you are

But now you will use all your powersTo wish on a new shooting starThe newly acquired work skillTo which you’re now attuned

Kept with gestures of goodwillAnd memories festooned

The negative energy some boughtTo obscure your working days

Will be dismissed without a thoughtAnd there, you hope it stays

So keep the best bits of your timeAs you move to pastures newLook ahead as up you climb

Looking back just to bid adieu

Sports and Fitness

What a month for Swindon College Old Boys…. Dorset and Wilts 1st XV Case Champions and starting to build a convinc-ing lead over 3rd place rivals in the Bucks, Berks and Oxon premier.

The 1st XV have spent much of the last three weeks celebrat-ing their emphatic win over Blandford in the final of the vase which now puts them on a journey that could end at Twickenham on the day of the Aviva Premiership final. The next round will be against Hun-gerford at the end of January, but with SCOB keen to have as much rest as possible, as they make an attempt to take the league and the RFU Senior Vase, they have proposed a winner takes all clash that would combine a league and cup fixture on one day.

The 2nd XV have been barn-storming and the return of vet-eran players Chris Ebeneezer, Alex Hill and Scott Buchanan to the ranks has only improved the confidence of the side as they made it four wins on thebounce and added pressure to the teams in Dorset & Wilts 2 North.

The league is tight with only 5 points between 2nd and 6th….. Special mention must go to Callum Gibbs who was given man of the match against Bath Saracens for his will, commit-ment, tenacity, two great tries and his general development over the past 12 months.

The November player of the month is James McLaugh-lin taking the 1st XV award following his two scores in the first 8 minutes of the Vase Final and Callum Gibbs taking the 2nd XV award for the aforementioned reasons. Special mentions go to John Chivers who has been ex-ceptional since joining SCOB and has become a try scoring sensation in the centre.

SCOB PLAYEROF THE MONTH

James McLaughlin

Player of the Month

Sponsored by

Anyone interested in joining Swindon College Old Boys please visit www.scobrfc.org or head to Wroughton Leisure Centre, 18:30 Tue and Thurs.

Special thanks to Jade Williams

for the photography.

“Swindon College Old Boys RFC Proudly Sponsored By”

open 7 days a week no appointment necessary

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Tours can be set up at any time for students wishing to transfer from Primary or another Secondary

Call 01793 487286 www.churchfields.org

Games

BibleStudy

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Cooking

Come along!It’s on every Thursday at 7:30-9:00pm in term-time for those in years 7-9 Swindon Evangelical Church17-19 Devizes Road, Old Townwww.swec.org.uk01793 541153


The G2S Group reserve the right to withdraw any offer without prior notice. Photographs and illustrations are for illustrative purposes only, copyright belongs to the G2S Group. Finance available subject to status. Please ask for details. Many more styles and colours available. Worked finance example: Borrow £2,000.00 pay £25.86 per month for 120 months at 9.9% APR per month. Total amount payable £3,103.20 charge for credit £1,103.20. Representative APR 9.9%. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

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Pearce Funeral Services

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

1 Groundwell Rd, Swindon, SN1 2LT 01793 422422

www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk

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

Professionally QualifiedA Truly Personal & Compassionate Service For You And Your Loved OnePre Payment Funeral Plans AvailableIncluded in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011,In Recognition Of Our Quality Of ServiceHome Visits Available

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

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Based in Stratton St Margaret, for your extra convenience we also have offices at 1 Groundwell Road, 300 yards from theRegistrar’s Office, an easy place to call into after registration. We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

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

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Exciting times for Holy Cross Primary School

Having been chosen to expand, in order to meet the demand for school places in the town cen-tre, Holy Cross Primary School on Upham Road admitted Reception Class pupils for the first time on 1st September. The expansion will con-tinue next year with 60 Reception Class places being available for the September 2015 intake.

Holy Cross will be relocating into a brand new school building that is currently under construc-tion on Queen’s Drive with completion due in July 2015. Headteacher, Mr Tony Mc Ateer, said ‘once we found out that the school was expand-ing we recruited a highly experienced Founda-tion Stage Leader, Jayne Rutherford, who has done a fantastic job setting up the Reception classroom and outdoor facilities and has expert-ly led a dedicated team of staff. The children settled in very quickly and are thoroughly enjoy-ing the excellent resources and facilities.

Everyone at the school is very excited about the new school on Queen’s Drive which will offer wonderful, purpose-built facilities and we are

looking forward to admitting 60 children into 2 Reception classes in September 2015, which will be followed by further expansion over the coming years’.

For further information about the Reception places that are available in September 2015 at the new school on Queen’s Drive, ring the school office on 01793 527679 or email [email protected] or visit the school website: www.holycross.swindon.sch.uk.

Applications for places can be made at the follow-

ing link:

http://www.swindon.gov.uk/el/el-schoolscolleges/el-schoolscolleges-places/el-schoolscolleges-plac-es-primaryschoolplaces/Pages/el-schoolscolleges-primaryschoolplaces-howtoapply.aspx

[email protected]

07870 480981

Retro �n with 78 rpm records played on a wind-up gramophone

[email protected]

07870 480981

WeddingsMake Your Day

Parties andCelebrations

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Add an authentic vintage sound to your event. Set the scene

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Amplifier available for larger venues. Please get in touch for

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Step back in time withWiltshire Vintage Music

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www.thebrunel.co.uk

The heart ofSwindonshopping


Without Outset there would be no business! We tried to open a shop before but lacked the necessary business knowledge. Outset’s support gave us the confidence to succeed. Cynthia & Maxime Bell, Pointe Perfection, Outset clients

Could you be your own boss? Now there’s an idea.Have you ever had an idea for a business but were unsure who to ask for help?

to FREE support to help start their own business. Our programme is fully-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Swindon Borough Council.

Our range of services includes information sessions, business start-up workshops, one-to-one guidance and help with accessing finance. This is not an academic qualification but hands-on vocational support and guidance tailored for you.

Take the first step!To find out more and book your place

call us on freephone

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080

3024,

email us at [email protected]

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Funded by

UK & European Coach Holidays

2015

on tours 4 daysand over, see backcover for details

HOME PICKUP

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[email protected]

01793 821303

Woodside Road • South Marston Park • Swindon SN3 4AQ

jan 2015

Documents

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swindon wildcats

swindon magazine

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