Sarah Dalton

James Denys, 36, has pleaded not guilty at Swindon Crown Court to causing grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with a screwdriver attack at the Widham Gardens housing development in Purton. Jamie Chappell, 25, suffered critical injuries and required part of his skull to be removed. Denys will remain in custody, with a jury trial scheduled to begin on January 11, 2027, and expected to last three to four days. An application has been made for witnesses to give evidence behind screens.

Stagecoach West will increase fares across Swindon and Wiltshire from September 1, 2026, citing rising operating costs and the need for long-term financial sustainability. Single, child, day, weekly, academic-year and term fares will rise, while return tickets and the Xtra ticket will be withdrawn. Existing products will be renamed, a discounted 28 Day ticket will be introduced through the Stagecoach Bus App, and online discounts will end. Tickets bought before the change for later travel can still be used at current prices, subject to existing terms. The government’s £3 fare cap is expected to remain until a new £2 cap begins in January 2027.

Jon White, founder of Gold Traders UK Ltd and RWB Auctions in Royal Wootton Bassett, has taken his campaign for greater transparency in the precious-metals trade to Parliament. He wants gold buyers to display the price they pay per gram, provide written offers, and ensure mobile buying events register with local authorities. After meeting Damian Hinds, Hinds submitted a Written Parliamentary Question asking the Government to assess mandatory price displays for online and over-the-counter gold buyers. White argues that current rules leave sellers vulnerable to unfair offers, while Hinds supports clearer information and fair treatment for people selling gold and silver.

Swindon Borough Council has temporarily banned all barbecues, including previously bookable facilities and a fire pit, at Coate Water, Lydiard Park and Stanton Park after several fires during hot, dry weather. Residents and dog walkers are calling for the restriction to become permanent, citing discarded ashes, damaged benches and fears of a major wildfire. The council says affected bookings will be refunded and urges visitors to dispose of cigarettes and rubbish safely.

New College Swindon principal Leah Palmer praised students for their hard work and resilience on A-level results day. Eleven per cent of A-level students achieved A* to A grades, while T-level students recorded a 92 per cent pass rate, with 55 per cent achieving the highest grade. Vocational results included a 96 per cent pass rate and 46 per cent earning at least one distinction. Palmer stressed that the college celebrates learners of all starting points and encouraged departing students to stay in touch.

Carla Heaton's mother, Naomi Lawrence, has paid tribute to the former Swindon Town and Cirencester Town goalkeeper ahead of an eight-day jury inquest into her 2022 suicide. Heaton, who also worked in a nursery and wrote poetry, had experienced serious mental-health difficulties and debilitating violent tics while receiving psychiatric care at a Swindon facility. The inquest will examine whether potential failings in her treatment on Applewood Ward contributed to her death. Her former club also remembered her as a talented goalkeeper and a bright, highly personable presence.

Sixteen-year-old Swindon resident Abbie Lainton died in hospital on July 30 after a boat accident in the Dominican Republic three days earlier. The boat was returning tourists from Saona Island when its front reportedly exploded, injuring 24 people and sending 11 to hospital with burns; two of Abbie’s siblings were also injured. A memorial fundraiser has raised more than £21,000, while Tanwood School for Performing Arts and Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club paid tribute to Abbie’s talent, kindness and infectious smile. The UK Foreign Office is providing consular support to her family and other affected British nationals.

The High Court is reviewing the Parole Board's decision to release Glyn Razzell, who was convicted of murdering his estranged wife Linda Razzell, whose body has never been found. Linda's partner Greg Worrall told the court that the family remains in agony and believes Razzell should disclose her whereabouts before release, citing ongoing safety concerns and Helen's Law. Razzell denies responsibility and is opposing the Ministry of Justice's challenge. His barrister argued that psychologists had conducted an unusually detailed risk assessment and that release conditions could be followed. The judge is expected to issue a decision within weeks.

A man in his fifties died after being struck by a vehicle, reportedly an HGV, on the eastbound M4 near Membury Services. Thames Valley Police are investigating and appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage. The crash caused extensive closures and delays between junctions 14 and 15, while a second collision near Swindon contributed to severe congestion across the town.

Gary Rogers, 70, of Highworth, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court after being charged with attempting to murder a 69-year-old woman at his bungalow. The woman remains in hospital with serious but not life-threatening or life-changing injuries. Rogers did not enter a plea, and the case was sent to Swindon Crown Court; he was remanded in custody until his next hearing on September 4. Police said they are not seeking anyone else and do not believe there is a wider risk to the public, while local residents described the incident as shocking.

Wiltshire Police launched an appeal to locate Gareth, a 40-year-old man last seen in Swindon town centre at about 3:30 p.m. on August 5. He was described as approximately 6 feet tall, medium-built, with black hair shaved at the sides and a neck tattoo, and may have been wearing a black tracksuit and blue Crocs. Police urged anyone with information to call 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Several caravans were reported at an unauthorised encampment beside the children’s play area at Pembroke Gardens in Swindon. Wiltshire Police said the occupants were expected to leave by Thursday evening, August 6, while Central Swindon North Parish Council continued to monitor the situation. Residents were advised not to approach the group and to report concerns or incidents to police.

A 70-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman suffered serious injuries during an incident on Downs View Road in Highworth. The Great Western Air Ambulance took the woman to hospital, while police cordoned off Orange Close and conducted forensic enquiries at a bungalow. Detective Inspector Sean Tregunna said there was no wider risk to the public and that police were not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

The M4 westbound carriageway between junctions 15 and 16 was closed for more than five hours after a lorry carrying approximately 12 tonnes of hay caught fire. The blaze caused five miles of congestion and delays of up to 70 minutes, while diverted heavy goods vehicles created additional disruption and safety concerns in Wroughton amid ongoing roadworks. Multiple Dorset and Wiltshire fire crews attended, and no injuries were reported. The motorway reopened on the morning of August 4, with traffic returning to normal.

An inquest is examining the care Laura House, 29, received at Great Western Hospital after she attended three times with worsening headaches and other symptoms. She was diagnosed with migraines and discharged without a CT scan, despite her husband reporting vomiting, confusion, weakness, neck pain and difficulty walking. She collapsed two days later and died at Southmead Hospital after surgeons found a benign colloid cyst and attempted emergency surgery. Doctors disagreed about whether imaging should have been conducted and whether a power cut affected her treatment. Great Western Hospital has since introduced battery-powered fundoscopes and a policy encouraging reassessment after three visits for the same complaint. The inquest remains ongoing.

SoBe Burger attracted a large queue in Swindon's Old Town for its opening, with more than 100 customers hoping to receive one of the first free burgers. The Miami-inspired chain also offered half-price food during its opening weekend. The new venue is SoBe Burger's 19th UK location and follows three years of operating as a delivery-only kitchen in Swindon.

Costa Coffee’s drive-through branch at Lydiard Fields in Swindon has reopened after a major refurbishment. The store now features updated interiors, new furniture and a modernized design, which customers praised as fresh and worth the temporary closure. Costa said the refurbishment forms part of its wider investment and expansion in Swindon, where it now operates ten locations.

Vicki and Greg, experienced pub managers from Purton, plan to reopen the Freke Arms in Swanborough near Swindon on August 1, 2026. They are redecorating the venue while restoring its original name and traditional pub atmosphere. The menu will focus on high-quality traditional dishes, including fish and chips, pies, burgers, steaks and seafood, with gluten-free options and seasonal specials. Bookings are already being taken, alongside a walk-in area, as the new managers aim to build on the pub’s strong local reputation.

Mobile mechanic Vlad Pomohaci, 36, of Swindon, indicated that he intends to plead guilty to outraging public decency after allegedly appearing naked, with only a small blanket covering his genitals, at a petrol station. He had previously admitted driving while disqualified and without insurance. Released on bail, he is expected to return to Swindon Magistrates' Court for sentencing on August 12.

New photographs by urban explorers show Alexandra House hotel in Wroughton largely preserved but empty, with its swimming pool cordoned off and furnishings still in place. The hotel, gym and pool closed permanently on February 29, 2024, reportedly because of rising energy costs. Although no longer open to the public, the site is believed to be used regularly by Wiltshire Police as a training centre. Security was increased after five TikTokers entered the property in April 2025, and the building's future remains uncertain, with some residents calling for its return to hospital use.

South Swindon Parish Council has unveiled four designs for a £21,000 refurbishment of Rushey Platt play area and is asking residents to choose their preferred option. The proposals include varied play equipment and colour schemes, with features such as swings, slides, a pirate ship, climbing equipment and a small zipwire. The wider project will improve paths and steps to make the park more accessible for pushchairs and wheelchair users. Of the original £90,000 budget, £21,300 is allocated to access improvements, leaving £68,700 for the play area; an additional £3,700 may be transferred to that budget if approved.

The former site of Dom’s Barbershop on Ermin Street in Swindon has been put up for sale following the owner Dom’s death. The premises, formerly Glen’s Barbershop, had operated at the location since 1972 and is remembered fondly by generations of residents. Marketed by Allen & Harris through a Rightmove listing, the ground-floor retail unit has a guide price of about £35,000 and will be sold by public auction on July 28, 2026, with online bidding available. The property includes a shop front, porch, kitchen, store room and toilet, and is held on a 999-year lease with more than 980 years remaining.

Apple TV+ has released the trailer for its television adaptation of William Gibson’s 1984 cyberpunk novel Neuromancer, which was filmed partly at Swindon’s closed Oasis Leisure Centre. The series, starring Mark Strong, Callum Turner and others, follows hacker Case as he becomes involved in digital espionage and high-stakes crime. It is scheduled to premiere on January 22, 2026, with additional filming reported in Tokyo, Los Angeles, Istanbul, Canada and London. The Oasis, closed since 2020, remains a significant local landmark, although its sports hall has been approved for demolition while the iconic dome is protected.

The Freke Arms in Swanborough, near Swindon, is due to reopen on August 1 under new managers Vicki and Greg after closing as Grill On The Hill amid soaring energy costs and difficult trading conditions. The new management has refurbished the premises, restored its original name and planned a menu featuring pub classics, burgers, steaks, seafood and gluten-free options. Local residents have responded positively, with many expressing enthusiasm and nostalgia for the pub.

Jamie Chappell, 25, remains critically ill in hospital after suffering a serious stabbing at a building site in Purton. James Denys, 36, of East Wichel, Swindon, has been charged with grievous bodily harm, remanded in custody after appearing at Swindon Magistrates' Court, and is due to appear at Swindon Crown Court. A second 36-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail. Wiltshire Police are appealing for witnesses while the investigation continues.

SoBe Burger will open a physical restaurant on Wood Street in Old Town, Swindon, on July 30 after operating locally as a delivery-only kitchen for three years. The first 100 customers will receive a free burger from 4pm, while other customers can get half-price food from July 30 to August 2. The opening will include a DJ and prize wheel, and the restaurant will serve burgers, fried chicken, loaded fries, milkshakes and ice cream, with delivery available through major platforms.

James Denys, 36, appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court charged with grievous bodily harm after Jamie Chappell, 25, was stabbed in the head with a screwdriver at a building site in Purton. Chappell remains in a critical but stable condition after undergoing a five-hour operation. Denys was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Swindon Crown Court on August 21. Another man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender was released on bail, while Wiltshire Police continue to appeal for witnesses and information.

Seven fire crews from across Wiltshire responded to a blaze at a commercial unit on Thornhill Industrial Estate in South Marston, Swindon. The approximately 10-by-10-metre unit was fully involved when firefighters arrived, with 12 breathing-apparatus wearers using hose reels to extinguish the flames. Residents and attendees at the South Marston Summer Fete were warned to avoid the area because of smoke and access restrictions, while the fire service said the incident was under control but ongoing.

James Denys, 36, has been charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm after a screwdriver attack at a building site in Purton, near Swindon. The victim, a man in his 20s, suffered a critical head injury, underwent a five-hour operation and remains in intensive care. Police are no longer treating the incident as an attempted murder, while a second 36-year-old suspect arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail. Officers are appealing for witnesses and information.

Police in Swindon arrested an 18-year-old man in Eldene after reports of a suspected drug deal involving an e-bike. Officers seized 40 bags of cannabis-laced gummies, 175 boxes of cannabis-laced vapes, cash and mobile phones. The gummies closely resembled fruit pastilles and were labelled as containing up to 1,000mg of THC, prompting police to warn parents about the risks to children and young people.

Approximately £2,000 worth of tyres were stolen from Pembroke Gardens in Moredon, Swindon, on July 4. Wiltshire Police released CCTV images showing two men loading tyres into a large white van and appealed to the public for information identifying them.

A two-vehicle collision on Drakes Way in Swindon damaged a traffic light and temporarily closed the southbound road between Greenbridge Roundabout and Marlowe Avenue. Wiltshire Police said there were no reported injuries and no arrests. One lane reopened at about 2:45pm, and the road was fully cleared by 3:40pm.

A man in his 20s was stabbed with a screwdriver at the Widham Gardens building site in Purton near Swindon and taken to hospital in life-threatening condition. Wiltshire Police arrested two 36-year-old men—one on suspicion of attempted murder and the other on suspicion of assisting an offender. Police said the incident was targeted and isolated, with no wider threat to the public, and appealed for information.

Swindon Borough Council temporarily closed the Coate Water Splash Park on July 18 due to an equipment breakdown and carried out urgent maintenance before reopening it the following day. The facility, which has seen repeated closures since opening in 2024, is now operational again, with families encouraged to visit during the warm weather. Local parents previously praised the splash park as a valuable attraction for children.

A Swindon man, Adam Balmforth, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court charged with ten sexual offences involving two females, including rape, attempted rape, strangulation and multiple sexual assaults. The alleged incidents occurred between 2023 and 2026, involving victims aged 14 and over 16. He was re-released on conditional bail, with one condition dropped, and the case was sent to Swindon Crown Court for a plea hearing on August 21.

A London woman, Charlie Kennerd, pleaded not guilty to causing serious injury by careless driving after a crash involving two motorcyclists near Marlborough in July 2025. One biker sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital. Prosecutors allege she pulled into the path of the motorcyclists at a crossroads. Her trial at Swindon Magistrates' Court is scheduled for October 2027. Wiltshire Police appealed for witnesses to assist the ongoing investigation.

A Swindon man, Peter Bullock, has been charged with assisting a shooting by allegedly driving primary suspects Kyron and Dylan Anthony to and from the scene of a June 19 attack in Gorse Hill. Bullock, previously arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, now faces a lesser charge, while the Anthony brothers remain accused of attempted murder and firearm offenses. The case has been sent to Swindon Crown Court, where all defendants will enter pleas. The shooting left one man injured and requiring surgery, and local residents expressed shock at the incident.

A 13-year-old boy died after a Toyota RAV-4 and a Renault van collided on the M4 between junctions 16 and 17 in Wiltshire. A woman in the car sustained serious injuries while both drivers were not seriously hurt. Emergency services responded, firefighters freed one casualty, and the westbound carriageway was closed for 12 hours. Police are investigating and appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage.

A rare London 2012 Olympic Aquatics 50p coin featuring the discontinued ‘Lines Over The Face’ design sold for £3,750 through the Britannia Coin Company in Royal Wootton Bassett, marking the firm’s highest sale to date. Coin specialist and YouTuber Christopher Collects noted strong continued demand for genuine examples. The coin was authenticated and sealed by the Numismatic Guaranty Company.

Gary Pearson retired after 30 years at Lydiard Park Academy, including a decade as principal, receiving widespread praise from former students, staff and the school community. The academy highlighted his legacy of improving opportunities and transforming the school. The trust appointed Mr Coulson, a former senior leader at the academy and current deputy head in Reading, to take over as principal in September 2026.

A burglary at GlamoRose Cakes in Swindon left owner Jessie Yeoell distressed after money was stolen during the afternoon of July 4. Wiltshire Police released a CCTV image of a man they believe may assist with enquiries. The shop has faced multiple prior incidents, including window smashings in 2022 and 2024. Despite setbacks, the business recently earned a five‑star hygiene rating and continues to receive strong community support.

Police are seeking to identify a man filmed riding an e‑bike through Swindon’s Brunel Shopping Centre on July 7. CCTV images show a rider in a blue shirt and grey trousers on a bike resembling a motorcycle. Wiltshire Police, led by PC Bezzant, are asking witnesses or anyone who recognises the individual to come forward. The incident follows a Public Space Protection Order introduced last summer banning e‑bikes in Swindon town centre due to anti‑social behaviour concerns.

Swindon Borough Council approved plans to partially demolish Legge House youth centre and convert the site into two homes, despite residents’ concerns about disruption to an adjacent churchyard. Conditions were imposed to protect graves and require a demolition method statement before work begins. Some locals expressed disappointment over losing a community asset, while others supported redevelopment due to the building’s long-term vacancy. The Diocese of Bristol said the site had long accommodated large vehicles without issues and pledged to minimise disruption during construction.

New policing powers under the Crime and Policing Act 2026 allow officers in Swindon to immediately seize vehicles used in antisocial behaviour without issuing prior warnings. The measures target persistent issues such as illegal racing, off‑road bikes and noisy or dangerous driving, particularly in areas like Thamesdown Drive and Priory Vale. Councillor Vinay Manro welcomed the change and encouraged residents to continue reporting incidents. Additional reforms introduce Respect Orders and strengthen dispersal powers, giving authorities expanded tools to address ongoing antisocial behaviour across the town.

Construction of a new Starbucks drive‑thru at Pegasus Trade Park in Swindon is progressing roughly a year after receiving planning approval. The 188‑square‑metre unit will include parking, electric vehicle charging points and cycle stands. Traffic modelling suggests vehicle flow will align with similar out‑of‑town drive‑thru sites and is not expected to disrupt nearby roads. The project is anticipated to create 20–25 jobs, though no opening date has been confirmed. Work at the site is ongoing, with roadworks and construction activity visible.

A new Indian restaurant, Clove Atelier, is preparing to open on Royal Wootton Bassett’s High Street in the former premises of Ganges, which closed earlier in 2026. The restaurant promises authentic Indian cuisine, takeaway and delivery services, and an elegant dining experience, though no official opening date has been announced. The business plans to offer a loyalty scheme and operate primarily during evening hours. The previous owner of Ganges, Mijan Chowdhury, reflected on the legacy of the long-running family restaurant, which had served the community for three decades.

A 19-year-old Swindon basketball player, Sean Kanyoza, died after getting into difficulty at the Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall in the Brecon Beacons, prompting an outpouring of tributes from friends, family, and sports teams. Loved ones remembered him for his positivity and impact on the local basketball community, while his university football club praised his energy and kindness. A fundraiser created to support funeral costs has raised over £4,000. Sean’s family expressed deep gratitude to members of the public and rescuers who made courageous attempts to save him and thanked local officials for their support during the aftermath of the incident.

Several parcels of land in Swindon, including roads, a roundabout and Bloomsbury Park, have been listed for auction with a guide price of £5,000. Estate agent Barnard Marcus highlights potential uses such as EV charging points, though any development would require necessary consents. The sale totals 7.8 acres of freehold amenity land and targets investors interested in long‑term land strategies. Despite speculation, no planning applications exist for Gainsborough Way on the local council’s portal, leaving residents awaiting the auction’s outcome and its impact on the Freshbrook area.

The former Stagecoach bus depot in Swindon is returning to auction after repeated failed sales, with its guide price reduced from £1.95 million in 2024 to £910,000 for the July 29, 2026 auction. The 1.5‑acre Eastcott Road site, vacant since 2016 and now in disrepair, has planning permission for 45 homes. Previous proposals were rejected over conservation concerns, and the location once featured artwork suspected to be by Banksy, which has since deteriorated. The site remains boarded up amid concerns over anti‑social behaviour.

The Brewer’s Arms pub in Wanborough has tightened rules requiring children to remain accompanied and seated due to recent safety concerns involving unsupervised behaviour. Many customers welcomed the policy, citing previous discomfort with children running around. Despite stricter rules, the pub continues investing in family-friendly facilities, including a new jungle‑themed play area created by landlord Paul Studholme to reflect the site’s heritage and provide a safe, enjoyable space for families.

A Swindon factory worker suffered life‑threatening injuries when his arm was crushed in a rotoclave machine after a miscommunication during blockage removal. The incident led to severe long‑term damage, extensive surgeries and ongoing impairment. Tradebe Healthcare National Limited admitted failures to ensure employee safety, with investigations revealing inadequate training, unsecured machine gates and reliance on emergency stops. The company has since introduced stricter permit‑to‑work procedures and enhanced training. Swindon Magistrates' Court has adjourned sentencing to allow the judge time to consider the case.

A heatwave has caused delays to recycling and garden waste collections in Swindon, with the council advising residents to leave bins out until crews can catch up. Waste collectors will work through the weekend and continue on Monday to clear outstanding collections, while authorities note ongoing pressure on health and social care services due to extreme temperatures.

A 20-year-old driver, Martin Stokes, admitted to dangerous driving after travelling the wrong way around a motorway roundabout and crossing major routes near Swindon while fleeing police. Officers reported the incident as extremely dangerous, though no injuries occurred. Stokes, who is of no fixed address, also pleaded guilty to multiple related offences and has been remanded in custody ahead of a Crown Court appearance in August.

A new 20‑bed Medical Short Stay Unit has opened at Great Western Hospital in Swindon to ease pressure on urgent and emergency care and improve patient flow. Designed for patients needing up to 72 hours of care, the unit adds capacity amid rising demand, high bed‑occupancy rates and recent record patient volumes. Staffed by a multidisciplinary team, the mobile facility will remain in place until 2031 and supports long‑term development plans for the hospital site, including enabling refurbishment of main wards while maintaining patient capacity.

A power cut affected homes in the Rodbourne Cheney and Moredon areas of Swindon after an underground fault in the SSEN network. Properties on Bourne Road and Manor Crescent were most impacted, with engineers dispatched and power expected to be restored by early July 9. SSEN stated that such faults occur occasionally and that crews would work to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Wiltshire Police released CCTV images of a man they want to identify in connection with a bicycle theft in Swindon on June 26. Officers are appealing for public assistance and have asked anyone who recognises the man to contact PC Follett with the provided reference number.

Construction has begun on a new Multi Use Sports Area at the Showfield Play Area in Royal Wootton Bassett following planning approval from Wiltshire Council. Supported by a Community First grant from Crappers and Son, the project includes tarmac installation requiring up to ten weeks to cure before final line painting. The facility, intended for multiple sports including football, basketball and netball, is expected to open in September 2026.

Tekever UK has applied for planning permission to add facilities including security kiosks, a test bay and an external plant compound to the Grade II listed Spectrum building in Swindon, which it is converting into a major drone production hub. The proposals involve external alterations but no demolition of the structure, previously used as a soft‑play and adventure golf venue. The redevelopment aims to support large‑scale drone manufacturing and create jobs, with Swindon Borough Council now reviewing the application and inviting public comments.

A long‑standing Swindon swimming club, Tigersharks, will close in August 2026 due to financial concerns, leading to widespread disappointment among parents, former members and supporters. The club, known for producing Olympians Jazz Carlin and Grant Turner, plans to transfer its swimmers and equipment to Swindon ASC, though some parents fear their children may struggle in a larger organisation. Reactions highlight the club’s historic impact, its role in developing young athletes and worries about the future of competitive swimming in the town.

Residents oppose plans to replace a Swindon town centre car park with 12 commercial units, citing concerns over traffic, noise and disruption to nearby Victorian housing. The developer argues the scheme would bring economic benefits, create jobs and promote sustainable travel, while the planning statement claims any harm has been mitigated through design. Swindon Borough Council will decide the application following public consultation and assessment against local and national planning policies.

Magnet Kitchens will close 15 underperforming showrooms as part of a Company Voluntary Arrangement aimed at cutting property costs and stabilizing finances. Most of its 159 UK outlets will continue operating, with customer orders at closing branches transferred to nearby locations. The company’s Wiltshire showrooms remain unaffected. The restructuring follows wider financial pressures on Magnet and its parent company Nobia, with job losses expected but not yet quantified.

A forecasted heatwave and an amber health alert for Swindon and Wiltshire have prompted the Swindon & Cricklade Railway to close on July 11 and 12 to protect visitors and volunteers. The UK Health Security Agency warns of significant pressure on health and social care services due to high temperatures. The railway plans to reopen July 18 and 19 for its Train, Truck and Trolley event, which will feature demonstration runs, trolley rides and passenger services, alongside the reopening of the Whistle Stop Cafe.

Tigersharks Swimming Club in Swindon will close on 31 August 2026 after more than 50 years due to financial problems. Head coach Richard Smith was made redundant and attempted to keep the club running with a revised business plan, but directors determined the club would become insolvent if it continued. Swimmers and assets will transfer to Swindon ASC, prompting concerns from parents about transparency and the size of the new combined club. Efforts by some parents to help sustain the club were unsuccessful as directors confirmed the closure will proceed.

Swindon residents are being warned of major changes to Royal Mail’s delivery schedule as second-class and non-priority letters move to alternate weekday delivery under revised Universal Service rules. Ofcom’s reforms, taking effect nationwide by year’s end, reduce delivery targets for first- and second-class mail as the regulator cites sharply declining letter volumes and financial pressure on the service. Royal Mail expects substantial cost savings under the new model while first-class mail will continue to be delivered six days a week. Ofcom is also reviewing stamp affordability and planning a public consultation.

Swindon Borough Council will invest over £1 million to resurface 18 roads between July 13 and August 31, with closures generally scheduled from 8am to 6pm and one site operating overnight. The programme aims to address roads in poor condition as part of the council’s wider maintenance efforts, including recent work at Blagrove Roundabout. Residents and businesses have been notified, with diversion routes planned to minimise disruption. Nick Gardiner highlighted the importance of proactive repairs to prevent higher future costs.

Residents living near the Wilts & Berks Canal in Swindon report repeated fly‑tipping of household waste, raising safety concerns and damaging the local environment. Items including bags of rubbish, metal sheets and building materials have been dumped along the canal path. Residents blame nearby households for disposing of waste at night. Swindon Borough Council says it was first alerted by the newspaper and is now investigating, urging residents to report such issues through official channels. The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust highlights ongoing risks to wildlife and recalls previous costly clean‑ups involving hazardous materials.

An upcoming weekend event at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway will offer visitors rides on rare rail vehicles as part of the site’s newly completed northern extension. Activities include demonstration runs, Wickham Trolley rides and passenger services hauled by the historic PWM651 locomotive. The heritage railway continues work toward eventually reinstating the line to Cricklade, with progress already underway. Tickets are available on the day, and volunteers anticipate strong local turnout, boosted by recent visibility after the railway featured in a Channel 4 series.

A Swindon woman, Lidia Young, has been charged with eight counts of fraud for allegedly claiming she was unfit to work between 2017 and 2023. She did not attend her scheduled hearing at Swindon Magistrates' Court, and the case was adjourned until August 13, when she is expected to enter pleas. The Department for Work and Pensions is involved in the case, and Young will be represented by Walker Law.

A Swindon man charged with causing death by dangerous driving failed to appear in court after emailing officials to say he had moved to Portugal and lacked a valid passport to return. A warrant was issued amid checks to confirm whether he has left the UK, with magistrates indicating that a European Arrest Warrant would be sought if necessary. The family of the victim, 59‑year‑old Jonathan Neilan, attended the hearing and received condolences from the bench as previously shared tributes highlighted his community involvement and personal interests.

A head-on collision on the B4696 killed Cricklade pet shop owner Barbara Mullaney, prompting an outpouring of tributes describing her as a central and beloved figure of the High Street. A teenage passenger in the other vehicle was hospitalized, and the driver was arrested on suspicion of dangerous and impaired driving. Barbara’s family plans to keep her shop, Animal Fayre, open in her honor, while Wiltshire Police continue to seek witnesses and dash‑cam footage to assist their investigation.

A house fire on Callington Road in Swindon sent large plumes of smoke into the air, prompting a major response from fire crews from Swindon, Stratton and Cricklade. Witnesses described the scene as horrifying, with one delivery driver saying the flames spread quickly. Firefighters used multiple hose reels and an aerial ladder platform to tackle the blaze, which damaged garages attached to a recently sold five‑bedroom property. Local councillor Vinay Manro urged residents to give emergency services space and expressed hopes that no injuries occurred.

Fire crews from Swindon, Stratton and Cricklade responded to a midday blaze on Callington Road, where flames and smoke were seen coming from a garage attached to a recently sold five‑bedroom home. An eyewitness delivery driver reported significant flames before firefighters arrived. The Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service confirmed multiple appliances and an aerial ladder platform were used to tackle the fire involving several domestic garages, with records indicating the property had been sold for £540,000 in January.

A group of travellers set up an encampment at Westcott Recreation Ground opposite The Runner pub in Swindon, prompting concerns after tyre tracks and a broken padlock were noticed near the entrance. A resident urged improved site security, while Swindon Borough Council said it is visiting the group and will take action to move them on. Past incidents involved larger encampments and significant cleanup efforts. The council previously allocated funding to expand legal transit options for travellers to reduce unauthorised sites.

A Wetherspoons pub in Swindon has been unable to serve draft beer since a heatwave caused cooler failures, leaving customers frustrated and resorting to pricey bottled alternatives. Engineers are expected to repair the system by June 30. The venue, The Savoy on Regent Street, remains open while listed for sale, with Wetherspoons confirming normal operations will continue until a buyer is found.