Swindonian Blog Posts
Swindon news, views, history and cultureWiltshire Author Launches Second Novel
Lis McDermott, acclaimed author of He is Not Worthy (2022), has launched her second novel Echoes of Drowning.
Lis’ third novel The Identity Enigma is written and awaiting a late 2024 publication date. Thus proving that Lis, resident of Royal Wootton Bassett, continues to captivate readers with her compelling storytelling.
The Choptank Old Town
So the last week I paid a visit to the The Choptank Old Town, Swindon. I’d heard that the place had a new chef and a new menu – now doing small plates – that I was keen to try. So last week an opportunity presented itself. Hurrah.
Grant Gets Schoolchildren Outdoors
Qualifying schools in Swindon could benefit from funding towards getting pupils outdoors and connecting with nature. And it’s thanks to a UK charity.
Swindon Writing III
As the title, Swindon Writing III, of this post suggests, there also exists Swindon Writing and Swindon Writing II. All of which, I’m pretty sure, have escaped my notice. Well that is until, earlier this week, I attended the launch of the eponymous volume with my chum, Lis McDermot. It just so happens that Lis is a contributor to this publication.
Prospect Hospice Swindon
The strapline on the sign at the edge of the Prospect hospice Swindon grounds couldn’t be more apt. Though I only realized quite how apt when the CEO, Jeremy Lune, gave me a tour in recent weeks.
FINANCIAL ADVICE TEAM SUPPORTS KELLY FOUNDATION
Financial adviser Dave Southby, who set up his own business a mere two years ago, has pledged to raise £2,500. He’s raising it for Swindon based charity The Kelly Foundation. All with the support of his team of course.
In his work, Dave often observes the profound effects of financial stress and anxiety on mental well-being. Collaborating with charities has been integral to his business since its start. He demonstrated this commitment last year by raising over £1500 for MIND.
Now he’s working with another local charity set up in memory of Corrie and Kelly Stooke.
Calling all Swindon Artists
Calling all Swindon Artists. On 22nd April, Swindon Open Studios will be opening their online registration for artists to take part in this year’s event.
Lifetime Achievement Award for Paralympian
Lifetime Achievement Award for Paralympian. Local paralympic gold medallist, Chris Hunt Skelley, has won a lifetime achievement award at the Disability Sport Yorkshire Awards.
36. The Motorola Building Swindon 1998
The Motorola Building Swindon opened in November 1998 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Striking and futuristic, the High-tech building did duty as a James Bond location.
King Athelstan’s 1100th anniversary launches
King Athelstan’s 1100th anniversary launches with a talk posing the question of why the first King of England choose Malmesbury for his burial place.
Historian Tony McAleavy will try to answer the question ‘Why is the first King of England buried in Malmesbury?’ in the first of what promises to be a fascinating speakers’ programme. The programme marks 1100 years since Athelstan became king.













