Latest news with #KrisTalikowski
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Search is on to find Swindon's next town crier
The search is on for Swindon's next town crier. A competition will be held in the town centre later this month to determine who has the vocal chops to take over the role. The competition last ran at the Town Gardens during the Old Town Festival, with help from community radio station Swindon 105.5, when Fred Ferris won the title and carried out the role for 15 years until his death in 2013. He attended many civic and community events and anniversaries. His ceremonial bell and costume have been donated by his family and will be passed on to the new Town Crier by competition organisers. Recommended reading Tributes to "amazing" Swindon nan who died from sepsis after being discharged Swindon 105.5 station manager Shirley Ludford said: 'We're delighted to be hosting this initiative. 'Holding the event in the Town Centre brings together Old and New Town and through the town's community radio station. 'It is an exciting, unique local opportunity.' Old Town Business Association chair Kris Talikowski said: 'This competition marks a proud moment for Swindon. 'By reviving the role of Town Crier, we honour Fred's legacy and bring community spirit and tradition back into the heart of the town.' Entrants to the competition, which will be held on Saturday, August 25 at Wharf Green, must be aged over 18, and keen to take on a supported volunteer role. For more information, visit
BBC News
29-05-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Devizes Road closure sparks conflicting views in Swindon
The planned three-month closure of a major road in Swindon has drawn mixed reactions from residents and the closure, which will begin in June, Wales & West Utilities will replace ageing gas pipes under the A4289 Devizes Road, one of the key routes in the been issued temporary pavement licences, several businesses on the road have said the closure may revitalise trade, but commuters have raised concerns about the impact it will have on planned road closure, approved by Swindon Borough Council, will continue in phases until the end of September. The section of pipe being replaced is more than 80 years old and has reached the end of its operational Talikowski, vice chair of Old Town Business Association, is among those optimistic about the closure."The pop-up licences give businesses a chance to keep add some extra trading through the works, and to create a really positive atmosphere on Devizes Road this summer," he said."We're also committed to supporting our businesses and making the most of the situation."With safe pedestrian access maintained, and outdoor trading encouraged, we hope residents and visitors alike will continue to support Old Town throughout the summer." Charlotte Phipps, who owns The Flower Pot on Devizes Road, said she had mixed feelings about the project."I'm a bit apprehensive. I'm hoping that the footfall will be great, and I can have a lot more plants outside, but it's a big thing not having cars going past the shop," she added."The footfall of Old Town at the moment is brilliant. Lots of people are out and very positive about all the shops and things to see. The lack of traffic will hopefully bring in more people on foot."Hayley Stapleton, owner of the nearby bar the Tuppenny, said she was "really excited"."Having some outdoor space where we can trade in the summer months is a real positive," she a number of local residents have expressed concerns with one describing the closure as a "big hassle" and another believing that it would "cause more traffic problems" because of the knock-on effect on other works will start from the Croft Road end and gradually progress towards Wood Street.
