Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 297

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. There was a skate park right over the back when we were little, great it was, lost my knees there.

9. They've cut down all the trees, so Mark's back garden is now bare for all the world to see.

8. I'm not surprised you got stuck in traffic, that load should have had an escort at this time of year.

7. We never have turkey, we always have fish.

6. You could feel the whole building moving, I told him to turn it right down, which he did eventually.

5. If she put just a small amount more into what she did, then there would be so much more to see.

4. This top is already coming apart and I've had it on two days.

3. Don't let Nate keep you from trying out for it, besides if you don't get it, he'll never know.

2. It was 3am and I still had the same two things rattling around in my head.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. He got a pair of socks, and a small model of Elvis, he was much happier with that than anyone thought he'd be.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 296

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. We went onto talking about his operation, but there was no showing of scars.

9. Back in the 1950s he was the only one in southern england you could buy it from illegally.

8. The Smiths are from Croatia originally, but they changed their name.

7. I was reading a few days ago about how much we'll spend on rubbish this Christmas, it's disgusting.

6. Too bad you didn't get two of them, then Trish could have given one to Sharon as well.

5. It's on Twitter, the whole conversation, with all the swearing and bitching, I'v copied and pasted it to it's saved forever.

4. He'll more than likely get me a crappy gift card for a shop that we don't have one in town of for me to go in.

3. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it's bad, I just want something better to watch on Christmas Day.

2. It keeps being mentioned about Christmas jumpers, when did Christmas have to make everything, from sprouts, to jumpers and turkeys all ironic? It's like trendy people have just started getting involved in it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I'm getting everyone small bottles of miniatures for Christmas, then pouring them into full-sized empties to show them what they're missing.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 295

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. The smell drifted over the top of her cubicle, lord you could smell everything.

9. That was so beautiful.

8. I got some stuff in the cheap shop then realised I could get it cheaper in Tesco.

7. She claims that Katey speaks French, but she only knows about f things.

6. They went out for drinks, then found out that they should have been in the bar next door and decided to not tell anybody.

5. Neil just will not shut up about it all.

4. We booked the table for 7.30 and people had been out drinking since 4, it was a disaster.

3. I worked 12 hours only to find out he'd done no shopping, cleaning or made anything for tea, I totally lost it.

2. Shampoo, facewash, a new toothbrush and a little nail file.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. They want to sell Lydiard, cunts.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

The dismantling of Swindon : Ideological agenda rears it's head at Lydiard

The twists and turns of councillors and SBC officers shows up the Lydiard House and Park sell-off for what it is : a crude and quick exercise in accountancy driven by a ideological political agenda to dismantle Swindon's civic infrastructure while using the smoke and mirrors to cover your arse as you go.

The claims that the subsidy for Lydiard 'cannot carry on' is not an absolute carved in stone. It's simply  a local extension of national government policy for reducing the size of the state for political ideology.

The Conservatives lay the cause for this austerity and permanent reduction in the size of the state at the door of Labour for overspending massively when in power. Never mind that the majority of money was spent bailing out the banks in the later years to keep the financial system from collapsing in on itself and dragging the economy down. Despite this being fact, Labour have never, since even in the run-up to the 2010 election, been able to get that across to the electorate in any measurable amount.

Certain SBC assets and projects seem to still be happily on the balance sheet at having subsidy thrown at them, the Whalebridge Car Park, STEAM, the art gallery rebuild project, Forward Swindon and more.

SBC is now simply an accounting exercise, how much can be sold off and assets-stripped, or handed over to parish councils.

And Lydiard? Well SBC cannot now confirm that a sell-off would not see restricted public use of the park, and why? Because no matter what's been said prior, if someone wades in and waves enough money, SBC will sing like a canary.

None of this is being done for the greater good, it's being done by a ruling party hell-bent on reducing the size of local government because it positively salivates at the thought of the private sector doing everything in town.

The only two hopes :

- That the local Labour party come out with all guns blazing and defend it to the bitter end, that this is the ultimate line in Swindon's sands. Turn up the volume Swindon Labour and draft in some big names.

- People power, start by signing the petition.

Swindon needs leaders of vision, a council of high ideals, not politically ideological monkeys in suits pretending to play monopoly with the very civic fabric of our town.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 294

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Remember it doesn't matter what you say, it's how you act.

9. Her lasagne was so big, she had to ask for another plate.

8. It goes the full length of the kitchen and ends just where the bins are.

7. I expected more from Tina considering she's on her final warning.

6. It's not quite as firm as yours, but we've always been different.

5. On the radar of things we're dealing with it's high priority.

4. He gets paid on Thursday, we're going shopping on Saturday, and I'm angling for that overtime in the next few days.

3. The promotion will be carried out by a team of people that come down from Cardiff for the day.

2. You end up with coffee cups all over and it just looks so trashy.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Why do we call ginger biscuits and ginger cake both gingerbread when they're both clearly not bread?

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 293

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. I'm just trying to show how I can make it different for the same price.

9. Debs said if you went into Debenhams you'll get a far bigger range of sizes.

8. It'll be a relief to not go home again.

7. At lunch she just sat there and said nothing to anyone from her department.

6. Well this isn't the actual route it takes, it's just temporary for a while.

5. We're not keen on the idea as we have the dog for 3 days a week.

4. They upgraded the flight, so we now leave at 4am rather than 11am.

3. Sharing for more than a couple of days has really shown the strain we've got between it.

2. I've four of them over the months and each one has lasted just longer than the previous one, but they're so cheap you can't really argue with them.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. You need to get up very early to get the better of me sonny boy.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Bruce Street Bungle - peak time over night time right time

Avoid Bruce Street Bridges today if you value your sanity!

Swindon Borough Council has given this stellar advice, as the rebuilding work today sees resurfacing happening. This will mean only two lanes available at evening peak time and long delays during the day.

As Network Rail gets on with it's work at Stratton Green Bridge, why didn't SBC schedule the work over a very small number of nights? This happens in other parts of the world, but somehow, the least disruptive option for road users (the night time noise to local residents would be regrettable, but if it could shorten the delays they suffer day after day, it could be welcomed) is the one that has not been taken up for this work.

Maybe SBC needs to up it's skill and knowledge levels for projects like this, as it seems the residents have better ideas as to how to carry out the work than they do.

Less is more in the great Lydiard sell-off

The latest twist in the tale of the fate of Lydiard House and Park has seen Swindon Borough Council caught out by their own figures.

£450,000 is the annual subsidy that's been given recently that is spent on Lydiard. It has since come to light that Lydiard and Steam's subsidy crosses over with regard to some of the staff, so the figure is not correct. The error appeared so glaring that even Councillor Garry Perkins has asked for clarification as to what makes up the £450,000 from the Lydiard and Steam parts of the pot.

And just yesterday, SBC Council Leader, David Renard has said Lydiard is not for sale.

But you can bet at the very long-term lease least that will result will be a lease. Swindon's recent experience of leases has seen control of what's provided at the Link Centre lost due to the operator running it being under no restrictions on what facilities they have to provide.

Could a similar situation at Lydiard see residents lose free access to the Park?

Meanwhile, it'd be interesting to find out how much Steam is subsidised and the cost of the failed bid for lottery money for the Old Town museum (which it seems, if a future bid were successful, SBC would continue to subsidise the museum, which no doubt would increase due to being in a new and bigger premises).

On the one hand, we have SBC committing to continuing subsidy for the museum and art gallery and to it at new premises (which would no doubt be an increased size of subsidy), but wanting to reduce and eliminate the subsidy for a current highly-regarded public attraction.

Cutting subsidy to what we currently have and at the same time committing subsidy to something we may never get.

That's orange-painted logic for Swindon.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 292

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. We'll have to give him a big surprise.

9. How does it feel though for someone of her age and position?

8. I don't know what Debbie's going to do, but she better do it fast.

7. There's going to be a huge gap between them both if they move that quickly.

6. You have to look really closely, but I'm at he back next to Janice.

5. It was done deliberately, you can tell by the tone of voice, it was so sneering.

4. Take away a privilege to show just how much of a problem it's become.

3. It's been worked out that the amount you pay in is exactly the same you get out, it's been a con.

2. The apples looked past it, I bought more bananas than normal instead.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. She stood for the whole hour and did nothing, she got prompted twice to do what she should have been doing all along.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 291

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Do you know who he use to go out with?

9. Keep it to yourself until we know for certain that Kirsty is going to apply.

8. Can you make a little less noise, everyone doesn't want to hear your language.

7. Here, put your hand on this.

6. It's not exactly dangerous though is it, I mean everyone wouldn't do it otherwise.

5. You've taken what she's said literally and that's not right at all.

4. She was going on about that being the night of their works do and now she's claiming she can't go.

3. It's like any excuse to not get involved, then just ends up moaning that there's nothing to do.

2. He's got about 5 different jobs, none of which he particularly likes.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. If you want equality you've got to remember it goes both ways and don't be surprised when something you didn't account for gets flagged up.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Swindon Parish Push Via the Small Print

Hidden in the small print of tomorrow's Council meeting, is a step to allow unlimited officer time to research and talk to the public about the view of Swindon Borough Council to push the 'need' for Parish Councils on the entire Borough's residents.

Very democratic, very vibrant, very fair?

None of the above!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 290

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. You know nothing about what's been going on.

9. It's for you to make it clear to him that that is what you want.

8. They gave you ten minutes them realised they hadn't checked the time for over half an hour.

7. The questions weren't that difficult, but they wanted you to give quite long explanations.

6. I'd keep all of the paint on that wall, then put the paper on the one nearest the door with gold strips.

5. We have to choose one damp field over another damp field.

4. She keeps being surprised that people don't want to keep giving her free publicity over and over again.

3. Keep in mind though that she'd always complaining how we never do anything with her and when we do she's really unsociable.

2. My throat feels like the plot of a real bad film, rough and uncomfortable.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. He's worth minions and minions.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Conservatives to Sell Swindon's Soul - all bids welcome

The ownership, access, and future of Swindon's crowning glory, Lydiard Park and House, is now clearly in the sights of Swindon Borough Council.

Despite assurances pre-election that the future of Lydiard Park and House was secure, of course, that wasn't the case.

As reported by the Swindon Adver, and here, it was clear that the Council's documentation showed that there was a recommendation to carry-out market testing in March 2014, at the same time as Swindon Conservatives denied there were any plans.

Now there appears to be a similiar fog, in whether the public will still have free access to the parkland, regardless of who runs the park and house day-to-day. 

The house and park were purchased due to the foresight of Town Clerk David Murray John for the people of the town, to go back on this and charge people to enter the park would be like selling part of the very soul of Swindon.

Plus, have any councillors or officers thought that if access is restricted to the parkland, then you can wave goodbye to the inclusion of the park's open space in the official figures?

In one move, SBC could reduce the level of public open space of an entire town, making the town's environs a worse place to live.

No doubt, they would then investigate investing a huge amount of money in building one of some fields.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 289

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. I've seen you stuck in a lot worse positions than that.

9. We need to show it's evil really.

8. Can you stop him from barking, because every single morning it's the same.

7. I wonder if Sandy got a date in the end.

6. I thought she'd be home by now but she's not there.

5. Please don't put your hand on my leg, this is the last time I'm going to tell you.

4. Let's remember why we're all there though.

3. It'll be nice if we can do it again, but maybe with less spaghetti next time.

2. It doesn't matter what colour the inside is, so long as it's got white on it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I'm going to buy a bottle of wkd40.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

The law of diminishing complaints

Swindon Borough Council is currently slapping itself on the back for the reduction in complaints it's received.

At no point does anyone make reference to the reduction in the size of the council and that implication in the figures.

Pretty much it'll be complaint free, with just one person answering a phone (part-time only of course).

The Grade II* Elephant in the Room

Swindon Borough Council is making more positive noises about the Mechanics' Institute than for a while.

They have once again made it very clear that there is no SBC money to buy it, restore it, or run it.

However the Mechanics' Trust still keeps banging the drum for it being a community-owned and community-operated use.

That's okay then, the thousands of members of the Trust and the vast coffers they've swelled at the Trust, will support their plans.

So how many members and how much money does the always very-vocal Mechanics' Trust has backing them up?

Gone a bit Wonga

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson really isn't having a good time of it at the moment.

Last week it was reported that he had broken parliamentary rules after sharing a draft confidential report with Wonga.

Now the Daily Mirror has reported that references to Wonga have been removed/edited from a four year-old post from his website detailing his success in securing a sponsorship deal for Swindon Supermarine with the payday lender.

There is no suggestion of wrongdoing, but the chairman of Supermarine is seething, and quite rightly, at the tone of the article.

Bruce Street Bungle

Have the roadworks at Bruce Street Bridges become a textbook example of how not to do a medium-scale road project.

Yes, and there's lots of evidence to support it.

Swindoncentric has reason to traverser the Bruce Street Bridges nearly every day, often multiple times and at differing times of traffic levels. The Work, on paper sounds pretty straightforward, the removal of the four mini roundabouts and the construction of one main roundabout, with associated pedestrian access. The road has to remain open as the work happens. Difficult? Certainly. Impossible? Not at all.

Delays have been so bad that Thamesdown Transport have had to divert their cross-town services 13 and 14 at some times to avoid crossing Bruce Street bridges from Rodbourne Cheney to Rodbourne (instead diverting along Great Western Way) and have also, in the medium term, altered the 13 and 14 routes to go via Shepperd Street and Station Road rather than the preferred Farnsby Street/Commercial Road and Regent Circus route. The unpredictability of delays caused by the work at Bruce Street Bridges means the timetable is not robust to continue on the Regent Circus route until the work is completed.

Paving or kerb work that had been laid several weeks ago in the morning was witnessed being taken up later that day by the contractors on site. For such an important project, there does not seem to be a large number of contractors on site when you pass by. A report to Swindoncentric was that 5 contractors left the site recently over frustrations of the management of the work they were doing.

Meanwhile, the work was schedule to finish 'October 2015', so there are a few days left to live in hope. Though it will overrun, until March it is believed. Businesses who have the work happening on their doorsteps were given short shrift by Councillor Heenan in last week's Adver when they dared to ask for compensation.

The ticking bomb is exactly how the effect of the closure of Stratton Green Bridge in a few weeks by Network Rail will add to the problems caused to traffic by Bruce Street Bridges. Councillor Heenan assures us that it will be ticketty-boo, so that's alright then. Councillor Heenan also said one of the reasons for the delays had been the amount of unexpected pipes and cables beneath the Bruce Street Bridges site. That seems to be par-for-the-course on most work sites, so it's baffling why this wasn't factored in by even the most basic risk analysis.

It'll be interesting to see a breakdown of the predicted costs of the work and the actual costs of the work afterwards to compare. But we'll have to wait for the work to finish first before that can be done.

And that will be....?

Swindoncentric looks forward to more innovative and vibrant ways that the rest of Great Western Way will be changed and resurfaced in the near future.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 288

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. So I Snapchatted Casey and oh my God, he knows all about it.

9. He'd never caught the bus that far before and was a bit worried if there were any back.

8. Don't think that the boss doesn't know what we've been doing, he's waiting for the best moment to tell us both.

7. Hayley thinks she'll lose that weight by December, she's got a big job on her hands.

6. I remember that song playing in the pub and the snowing coming down and being so happy.

5. She can't be dead though, what are they going to do for the rest of the series?

4. It's unusual to think we use to go out, then Daniel came along.

3. Did he ever return those kettlebells to you?

2. He's a confident little twat, wrongly no-doubt.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I've got 2 more return trips on this, then, I'm off and nothing's going to stop me!

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Save the clock tower!

Guess Who?

With Swindon Borough Council CEO Gavin Jones leaving the post in January, the question now is, who will succeed him?

Will it be someone parachuted in from outside, or will SBC promote one of their own (a head of a board, or commissioner?).

One thing is certain, the 'rebuilding' of SBC that Jones is said to have oversaw (which also saw the privatisation of Swindon Commercial Services, and then, the un-privatisation of SCS, bringing it back into SBC before the paint was dry on the new logos, to save money, then bits of Capita that were brought back in-house by SBC, and, of course, the massively successful vanishing of £400,000 in the failed wi-fi Digital City project) will be ready for the the new boss to oversee the dismantling of SBC with it's proposed parish plan.

So who will it be?

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 287

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. I haven't watched it for a while, it's good though.

9. Chicken or beef?

8. Me and my boyfriend dressed up as a T.A.R.D.I.S.

7. I hear that they allow you to get your bits out in front of the crowd, but you can't touch yourself.

6. I've got the third album, downloaded the fifth but have no wish to even hear the fourth.

5. It's not just a part of your foot, it's a medical condition.

4. She was going to make a cake, but then thought better of it and let Tesco take care of it to avoid crying children.

3. No, it doesn't fit under the bridge, you have to go down and round first.

2. They brought me back a t-shirt saying 'it's all geek to me'.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I bought poppadoms, but they gave me two for free anyway.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Poverty Stalks Swindon - But We're Better Than Average

A new national report on poverty deprivation shows the following summary details about Swindon :

• Swindon has less poverty than the national average.

• Relative poverty levels haven't changed much since 2010.

• The most deprived area in Swindon is Penhill and Upper Stratton ward.

• Swindon's relative poverty is most severe in the areas of education, skills and training.

All of this can be addressed in one fell swoop with a University of Swindon (or a a substantial regional partnership campus for another name).

Swindon Borough Council is trying to make it happen.

We need an all-out effort by everyone, SBC, MPs, heads of business, teachers and lecturers and the people of Swindon.

The Conservatives seem be rebranding themselves 'blue collar tories', maybe a populace with low levels of education, skills and training is easier politically to manage than that of the alternative?

Any population with low levels of education, skills and training will be better to handle from a politicians point of view, an educated town is a powerful town with informed residents who will challenge it's councillors and MPs.

Now that really would be a town of salubrious et industria.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 286

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Happily married for longer than the last two wives.

9. Stubborn and more lazy just as you'd think.

8. They couldn't have made a better choice if they're after no imagination at all in their strategy.

7. The film made it out that there was more about her character, but she just seemed to spend the whole time weeping.

6. I didn't mean to offend.

5. Oh my days, he was walking around with it stuck on him all evening.

4. What do you think he would say if he knew about us?

3. We're on time and Sally won't expect this at all.

2. All he's ever tried to do is try to help you.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. You'll end up on Spice, collapsed in a doorway night after night if you carry on.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

From a Rotten Borough to Rotten Parishes

The proposals by Swindon Borough Council to create parish councils to cover the entirety of the Borough of Swindon should be exposed for the rotten idea it is.

After the regular rises of council tax by the Labour administration, the Conservatives in Swindon have made constant political capital ever since that they have not raised council tax since 2010.

The ever increasing (and shifting) demands on SBC, namely adult social care, make this 'no increase ever' position, look increasingly at odds with helping those most in need.

Rather than bite the bullet and be brave enough to admit that being responsible means paying a bit more, SBC has proposed to hive off most local authority jobs to new parish councils, allowing them to be seen as the bad guys, with the separate cost of the parish handily itemised in the SBC council tax bill.

The result? SBC continues to 'operate' (but what will it be left to do?) at 0% increase in council tax, therefore allowing Swindon Tories to save face (and campaign on it in future elections), whilst being seen to give power back to more 'responsive' parish councils (because if they're small, they must be effective right? Because in the true-blue handbook, small is beautiful, especially when talking about government). The parish councils, which will no doubt be campaigned for and possibly filled by Labour, seen as one step by them to regain control of SBC, who will then take all the flak and blame for the increase in council tax to pay for the new parishes.

In one perfect move, Swindon's Tories are seen to give power back in a micro-devolution, whilst making Swindon Labour shoulder the rise in council tax to pay for the parishes and at the same time, getting a load of SBC services off 'their' books.

Are Swindon Tories about to oversee the final dismantling of Swindon Borough Council? Seems so, and they're going to get Labour to pay for it!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 285

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. It'll ruin the aesthetic.

9. I know you love danger.

8. This is totally you, this hat.

7. There's only salads, nothing else.

6. Before we think about anything else, I'm so excited about this weekend.

5. If you can just calm down for a minute, I'll see if I can help you.

4. That's such a nasty thing to do, did you not see this coming with your amazing foresight?

3. I think I'd remember having a boyfriend like that.

2. I like a surprise, but not when there's a shock.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I'm having this baby and I don't care if people don't know about it, do you get me?

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

An insight into Swindon's buses

Here's the details of a presentation that Paul Jenkins, head of Thamesdown Transport gave to Swindon Older People's Forum back in January.

It gives an insight into how the town's buses run the way they do and why.

20 and out

Sense has prevailed and the Thamesdown Transport service 20 will not return.

Despite politicians trying to lay the blame for it's demise at Thamesdown's door, the straight-talking from the bus company's head should be commended for making it clear that the service never covered it's costs.

Swindon Borough Council can "um" and "ah" about it's withdrawal and there being subsidy available to run some sort of service, but when that subsidy is only £25,000, you can see the deep blue water between politics and reality of how much it costs to run a bus service on the ground.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 284

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. We thought we'd get done for assault.

9. The number 20, no-one uses it, if someone wants to pay for it fine.

8. I didn't know they could physically do that.

7. I always made sure you had enough at Christmas, most of the time.

6. There's nothing in it, I know he took it on Thursday.

5. My JSA's not come through yet, so do you want them or not?

4. She'd done so many selfies, it's a wonder that Nationwide have got any work out of her.

3. They might get suspicious, which is the last thing anyone wants.

2. I reckon garlic bread should be freely distributed en masse.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. And you absolutely cannot eat anything after 8 o'clock, otherwise you might as well just give up all hope right now.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 283

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Admit nothing, remember that.

9. He'll be like a spare part if he comes along.

8. I was absolutely soaked, I've said that the lock on the door needs to be fixed for months.

7. Do it in your funny voice, that makes you sound like a little girl.

6. Claire reckons I don't know, but I do and I really, really, don't care as much as she thinks.

5. Go for it, push, go on, it won't come off.

4. Whatcha mean, I've got a bag-full here, of course we've got enough.

3. The supplement is never inside it, I don't know why I bother even trying to buy it at the full price.

2. Let me think about all of this and call her back, because I'm not convinced she is talking about the same thing I am.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. That's a wow bad image to put in my head, what the hell is wrong with you, you freak?

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

View from the Blue Top

A nugget of wisdom from today's Swindon Beaver Herald (yes, a Beaver) courtesy of the housewives's favourite Tory Boy, Marcus Monter...

I don't mean to gloat, but he won! Yes, the most unelectable leader of Labour since, well the last leader, that bacon sandwich-munching twit. Well done, but he doesn't stand a chance, and if he's still here in a year's time, I'll eat something from one of those cheap supermarkets, but only if it's a premium brand. Meanwhile, blah blah, hard working families, blah blah, poverty? I'd love to comment, but I'm up to my word count, up the Tory Blue workers!

For reasons of balance, the red party were contacted locally, but they were too busy weaping into their boxsets of 'Now, this is what I call the 1970s'.

Anything but the Mechanics'

It seems the Mechanics' Trust has now crowned itself the voice of Swindon's historic buildings, following this recent Adver story about the Corn Exchange.

This follows onto the growing list of new projects and pies the trust seem to have their limited fingers into. This includes the Baker's Arms pub, the Central Community Centre, the old Railway Museum cottage and an allotment.

Meanwhile, the building they're meant to be dedicating their time to sits empty and derelict and they don't own it.

Is the trust diversifying itself for the day it's decreed they're not to be involved in the future of the Mechanics' Institute?

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 282

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10. It's what the corporate world has come to expect of us, which is sad.

9. You'd expect someone to say, but I just walked out with it.

8. Are we starting with the introduction first?

7. Put everything in that one bag, then I can keep this clear for the soft things.

6. You don't need change on those.

5. It doesn't run anymore, it's not gone for years now.

4. 'Ello Elsie, how's you going since your husband passed?

3. He started going on about how amazing the bay was, I had to pretend to be interested.

2. Ever since they replaced it with lights, it's always blocked, bring back the roundabout!

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. The sad thing is, the clock stopped chiming, then working and hardly anyone noticed.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 281

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. What's unnatural about that, she's up for it.

9. The ladies don't like it when you ask them to lick your sausage.

8. People didn't have as many relatives back then.

7. You're not undercover, they know you're producing a report on their department.

6. Elaine didn't reckon the marketing plan could be carried out by someone wearing canary yellow.

5. Do you want a babychino?

4. If this traffic don't move I'll be home too late to do dinner and too early to do tea.

3. I think they're alright, he's funny and she's not as moany as I remember.

2. They wanted me to fill out yet another form after they'd lost the original order and couldn't find the email that showed the bolts falling out.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Matty was clearly annoyed, she was throwing out expletives like a trigger happy prison guard firing a machine gun.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 280

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10. There'll always be someone that comes along and invents something.

9. Not the best start but we'll see what happens.

8. They've only got 3 points, it's not like you can get out the champagne and all that.

7. Is that a Swindon number?

6. This goes the same way as the 13, you're okay.

5. Only Sam knows what I'm like when I come home drunk, it's not pretty.

4. No, it's gonna rain all day, take the brolly.

3. 10 real ales, and 5 fake ones.

2. You can sit here for 4 minutes, we're ahead of time, switch off your engine.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. She says she speaks Spanish, but I'm convinced she's not quite as convincing as she makes out.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Has Time Been Called On Time Itself In Swindon?

The Town Hall Clock has not chimed for well over a month now.

Are repairs underway, planned, or is Swindon Borough Council about to announce something innovative?

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 279

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. He'll never fit under there, you watch.

9. Help your mother for god sake.

8. Do you want a big family? I think they're coming back into fashion.

7. You're not Katie's sister, who use to work in the garage are you?

6. How kind of you, so thoughtful.

5. We could get KFC, I'm totally starving.

4. It was huge, I've never seen one like it, plus there's more of them coming.

3. This is your sort of fun, not my sort.

2. I can borrow as much money as I like and I haven't got to pay it back until sometime in the new Year.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Don't forget that no-one texts any more, it's all about WhatsApp and Snapchat.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 278

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10. She's behaving very suspiciously.

9. He's not from where I thought, but he doesn't sound like where he is from either.

8. Standby for word from me when it happens.

7. That'll be all you'll get from Deborah, she doesn't tend to say much unless she's in a mood.

6. All this has nothing to do with work so why the hell does she always bring stuff up about her family in the Monday meeting?

5. I got a pastie and one of those cream things, they're a lot to eat, but why not.

4. There are some jobs going, get yourself in there, it's not difficult.

3. I didn't even bother to ring him last week, that was 5 weeks in a row he'd not turned up, seemed like a waste of time.

2. I can't spell it. I only know how you say it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I must have walked for like 10 miles, it took us over an hour.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 277

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10. You can't expect me to pay that much attention to you.

9. Mark, you know Mark, Mark who use to wear the orange t-shirts and didn't care about washing, that one.

8. She's pushing people to the end of their tether.

7. Let's keep it in perspective, it's not as if she is actually stalking you, not yet anyway.

6. The back of Faringdon Road, it backs right onto their.

5. You've got about half an hour, then his phone is going to run out and he's going to be well annoyed.

4. They can't keep the accounts secret, it's a matter of public record.

3. I fall asleep as soon as I get on the settee.

2. Ribena, I mean who actually drinks it, it's so strong, does it stain the inside of the boxes.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Am I on speakerphone, hello everyone on the bus.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 276

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10. So I sent him a message to tell him to stop messaging me.

9. Don't judge a book by it's digitally-generated cover.

8. The streets are so narrow you couldn't squeeze a ferret down it.

7. Just because he dresses like a twat, that doesn't mean he's going to be all sweetness and light.

6. A cheque, a cheque, where are you from, the 17th century?

5. When she smiles, it looks like she's got a mouthful of piano keys.

4. Prove that I've not got any underpants on, right now.

3. Your phone never works properly, where did you get it, Wilkinsons?

2. I've had enough of pizzas, they're like cardboard but with less flavour.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Try one, you'll like it... okay maybe you won't.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 275

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10. I can't tell you now.

9. You'll have to wait, I keep telling you, that's how most things are.

8. I've had this trouble for years, but only recently has it become obvious to others.

7. I was stranded with Maureen, we didn't know what to do, so we waited in the bar for them to come back.

6. Don't get carried away, it's not as if he's the answer to all your problems.

5. It looked like it was backed up all the way, but it was moving quite well, but stacked up.

4. The bottom's dropping out of the direct-sales market, everything's going online.

3. Let's be clear with her and tell her how we feel, I can keep living a lie.

2. Being all friendly when she wants something is fine, but I think she's a cow most of the time.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Keep his full attention, and you can get what you want, if you can press his buttons.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 274

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10. Not going to believe it unless it gets posted in the feed.

9. Noodles no way, it's got to be pizza my girl.

8. Any help you can give me on that one?

7. Relationships are all well and good, but you can't really expect me to spell it properly.

6. Don't forget the coffee, it's the most important part of the grand plan.

5. It caught fire and they still don't know what caused it.

4. She came in and I explained it and drew a layout of it, then she told Sarah she still didn't understand it, despite it being explained to her one-on-one and given a diagram.

3. Fabulous, it's just what you need for the summer, the scrappy shoes.

2. They went exploring in House of Fraser and still didn't buy anything that they could wear to work.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. The most sinister word for a fashion-trend, this slashkini.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 273

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10. A veil is never going to work.

9. This is really weird, normally I sit where you're sitting.

8. I feel it'll only work for you and him if you really, really want it to.

7. Don't shout, I'm not going to have a discussion with you if you're going to be like this.

6. Except less and you'll always be surprised.

5. It all started last year when she came back with that sun tan.

4. Mary always struck me as incapable of being in a relationship.

3. The main area of change will be at regional, they have no idea what's coming.

2. I've not had a drink since earlier on, but I can't remember what time it was.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Let's pretend for a minute that I actually care and let's see if Matt actually notices, because I can be really aware actually, despite what he thinks actually.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 272

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10. I love a good barbecue, make sure there's enough food.

9. I judge people instantly on the state of their eyebrows.

8. They're all too young to care about customer service.

7. They all go out drinking and then shagging each other, then bitch about it in the office the next day.

6. Don't post on Facebook about it, then be surprised when people find out.

5. I love rounders, I think it was the only sport I could actually do at school.

4. If I miss a banana first thing, it throws off my whole day.

3.  No, not crafts for dogs.

2. Did you know I use to work with him on the buses?

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. There's not a lot of Rachel tension in that area of town.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 271

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10. No trousers, but three tops.

9. There's no later bus, this is the last one.

8. This ain't working, I'm going to have to replace the whole circuit board.

7. She went out with the kiddie from the shop, just after the staff discount I think.

6. You'd be surprised just how far a shirt and tie can get you.

5. When you think back, who looks like they've not aged?

4. Sarah need to keep Cindy in marketing otherwise accounts will go to pot.

3. Early, early, as required, late, rest day.

2. I've not been near it since they kept us waiting for half an hour, twats.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I can track him on my phone, even when he thinks it's been deactivated, that's progress.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 270

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10. I'm not overjoyed.

9. Who'll ever want to buy one of those?

8. If you ask me, it's ridiculous, she'll never make money.

7. I always have breakfast, one packet of crisps and two cans of Monster.

6. Just grab hold of what you want and I'll take care of the rest.

5. Just a minute, how old was this girl then?

4. Those skin tight pants are so much hassle, I'll not bother with them again.

3. James said if I couldn't make a decision, then he was going to make it for me.

2. Macaroni is all well and good, but it's not fancy enough for a fancy meal.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. See the guy with the blue top, I went out with his sister, didn't get anywhere fast.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 269

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10. This is a total joke.

9. Jazz's phone has been off all afternoon.

8. This is the first class of buses.

7. I always think buses are a reflection of a town.

6. It's like a secret life with him.

5. Let's remember who came up with the idea first, that's right, the inferior boss.

4. There's not real footage on it, it's all simulated.

3. Why would you want to wear a gold one, makes you look all blingy.

2. Assume Claire knows all about it, what's she going to do,

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I don't know where I am or where I'm going.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Innovative Logos

The logo for what was Swindon Commercial Services, now Public Power Solutions, which is owned by Swindon Borough Council (charged with building the Borough's renewable energy future) :

The Ariel Logo :

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 268

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Who thought of this, rubbish, rubbish, absolute rubbish.

9. When they were bombing Saddam, I was on a mini-break.

8. I just have a feeling you have several sheep lined-up for me.

7. I'm a bit sniffy.

6. When my mum has a party, some of her friends end up sleeping in the dog bed overnight.

5. I'm not thrilled about the idea Darren.

4. Don't give the man false hope, a false appreciation of his body, now that's alright.

3. Next time, try it without the sauce.

2. If a psychology student raises a point in the forrest, do the squirrels strip the carcass?

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I've got to go and mist my aspidistra, it's not a euphemism, despite telling people.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

You wait ages for a political bluster and two come along at once

The withdrawal of the no.65 Stagecoach in Swindon service has ruffled some feathers amongst councillors in Swindon Borough Council and South Marston.

South Marston Parish Council complain that they didn't know about the changes until a resident told them. It's clear then that none of the parish councillors use the bus. To then complain they weren't informed discounts that Stagecoach advertised the changes before, in many ways - online, at bus stops, leaflets, new timetables and in the Adver.

Not to miss out making a little hay, Swindon Borough Councillor Heenan has suggested alternatives will be discussed at the next Cabinet meeting.

One thinks, are they only reactive alternatives due to the Adver story? Surely a proactive council would have planned possible alternatives back in March (and announced they were working on them) when Oxfordshire County Council withdrew the main chunk of funding for the 65? Odd that he didn't comment on the improvement to Thamesdown Transport's service through his own constituency, with the renumbered service 1/1A now recreating a cross-town route and increasing to every 10 minutes.

But that decision didn't involve politicians of course, or subsidy.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 267

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10. The only time I've been on a bus is with you.

9. I'm not going to do it for you, you're a grown adult and I've just shown you the order to push the buttons in, go on, on you go.

8. It wouldn't let me fill out the form, they kept saying it's because you only get a UK birth certificate if you're born in the UK, but no-one told me.

7. They've got vacancies, I'm going for them.

6. When you're a child, you're after that type of validation.

5. You shouldn't be seen wearing those trousers outside of 1988.

4. Fish is most certainly the dish of the day, chippy tonight.

3. Mention that when you text her, that'll win her over.

2. Let's have pasta for tea, I've got some of that garlic bread too, can't beat it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Don't walk away from me, I love you Sandra, I mean Becky, Becky!

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 266

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10. It was coming straight towards me, I just froze.

9. There was Kate, Lauren and Sara, they went to Cavvy in the end.

8. You'd not know there were flowers inside by just looking.

7. Did you buy that tape I need, the really strong stuff, impossible to undo.

6. Less than I expected, but I was prepared to go higher.

5. She thinks she's indestructible, she hasn't a clue what people really think.

4. If you lengthen the nearest side, it should become symmetrical.

3. I'm avoiding meat and only really having salads and juices, I feel like I've so much more energy.

2. Don't tell the rest, but Claire is going for Sandra's job and she'll get it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Mark said marriage is about one person being in charge and the other dealing with it, it's a wonder he's single.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Inside the Mechanics Institute

These photos from 2011 show the internal state of the Mechanics' Institute, including the installation of the tin roof by Swindon Borough Council.

These photos are dated 2010, showing the state of the building, with rotting timber, missing stairs and floors and a flooded basement.

Back to the Future on the Buses

Changes proposed by Thamesdown Transport see lots of what was old will be new again.

From the 31st May, the changes will include :

- The 1/1A will now resume it's previous cross-town routing, linking Covingham and Nythe with Middleleaze and Grange Park, which will see the number 2 vanish. This gives East Swindon a 10 minute frequency again, after it being cut down to 15 minutes, then upped to 12 minutes when it's been the number 2. Evening services will go back to a half-hour frequency.

- 13/14 are rerouted after 6pm and all day Sunday via Regent Circus for the new cinema.

- The 15 sees the last service from Wichelstowe withdrawn.

- The 17 and 18 see changes to give Penhill back a 10 minute frequency to Park North and the Park South service is reduced to half-hourly and extended to Coate Water.

- The 20 will be withdrawn as it does not cover it's cost. Strangely, for a bus that doesn't have enough passengers to pay for itself, the withdrawal of it is predicted to cause car park chaos for the GWH staff forced to drive.

All in all, the changes see lots of improvements, or a return to previous service levels, with some commercial flair by rerouting to take advantage of new destinations, but the withdrawal of the 20 is a necessary move, unless Swindon Borough Council want to increase subsidies, don't blame the bus company for it's loss.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 265

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10. There's so much dirt on all 7 of them, he can make them do what he likes.

9. We should say "no way" to it.

8. You could go to Primark, they've always got those pants, so cheap.

7. I'll fight you right now.

6. Haribo is never as satisfying after you've been eating it for a few minutes than before you started.

5. I did my best, but it wasn't enough for Sarah, she can go and work in Norwich if she wants then.

4. You'll just have to change twice like everyone else.

3. They need a load more casuals, I'll text Steve's number to you.

2. There's more heads of state in town than Lid Dems now.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. He got back in and his column sounds like the toady kid at school no-one liked.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 264

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10. We've got all manner of sleeves here.

9. It was so bad, I wasn't sure if it was the flu or if it was a hangover.

8. You know when someone eats a McDonalds all their life and they're really skinny even though they eat so unhealthy?

7. They've taken everything, there were no legs left.

6. How much do you weigh after your hols?

5. It had gone all fizzy, it tasted disgusting.

4. How do you expect me to use these without the instructions?

3. You can't get there direct from Bristol so we're going to Juliana's mum's place.

2. It turns out I owe them £400, total con.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Bus full of Tories, I mean, it's even painted blue.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 263

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10. Come at me fast and with purpose.

9. Coconut water is more overrated than a Green Party soundbite.

8. He's making a complete pig's ear of it.

7. Andy's not got a chance of hearing me over those headphones.

6. I think you're gonna make it, you've got three minutes,

5. The number 1 is your best bet, it's going half-hourly soon.

4. Did this bus even turn up yesterday?

3. It was so late that by the time we got to the main junction everyone who got on thought we were the next one.

2. Have you got two 10 pences I can borrow?

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. They said the future was paperless, I'm afraid I didn't get that memo.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Do the Mechanics Have Enough Volunteers?

In the recent saga of the Mechanics' Institute, things seem to have shifted to the Mechanics' Institution Trust taking control of several Railway Village buildings, but not the one they want, the Mechanics' Institute itself.

- The Baker's Arms pub (that closed in 2012 after a police raid) is empty and is being eyed-up by the trust as a cafe.

- The Central Community Centre has been given to the trust as the council has been getting rid of it's community centre in recent years.

- The old Railway Museum cottage has been recommended to be given to the trust by the council to run.

- An allotment plot has been given to the trust to run.

The trust was awarded £30,000 by the People's Health Lottery, which saw the hiring of a Community Development Officer in April last year. But a recent interview saw the adver talking to a community development co-ordinator, with no mention of the officer that had been appointed the previous year. A Facebook post on the Central Community Centre page dated 19th September 2014 announces the departure of the Community Development Officer as "the trust have decided to go in a different direction and reshape the Community Development Co-ordinator post". 

What were the differences that caused the job to be filled by the daughter of long-time Mechanics' campaigner Martha Parry?

Plus, does the trust have enough volunteers to run the pub, the community centre, the cottage, the allotment and have people working on getting control of the Mechanics' Institute itself?

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 262

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. I wouldn't call that a crowd, more an annoyance.

9. She was on the last one last night, she looked a right state.

8. There's no more room, next one's right behind.

7. Oh no, look at that, it's all over the seat, move.

6. You looked better with the black one on, that one's going to get dirty so quickly.

5. He text and said how he couldn't stop thinking about me, bit desperate.

4. Do you go right at the shops, or straight on and across the roundabouts?

3. There's going to be a buffet lunch, I'll go if it's decent.

2. Martin keeps that hat on no matter what time of year it is.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I mean, you don't know who he's shagging when you're stood next to him.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 261

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10. So what does that matter? He's still got my phone,

9. I pay you 260 quid, then you pay me back for what you owe after the last lot.

8. She lives way over Moredon, I always get lost on the way.

7. That's not fun, it's just what you've got to do.

6. Upstairs is the way to go.

5. Standby for something sarcastic and not very funny.

4. Away we go to the shops.

3. James didn't bring those tissues, just use her sleeve.

2. I wouldn't do that, there's too many by the doors.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. He caused a tailback all along Great Western Way, top way to get everyone to vote.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 260

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10. Keep that quinoa for Jess, she's a fan.

9. I've never heard such a racket in my life.

8. Let's make sure it works, otherwise what's the point of wearing these shoes with it.

7. I went in and got my tins, and all my frozen stuff, it's so cheap, you'd never believe it.

6. Si thinks I need just let Connor find his own way, but it's driving me nuts.

5. It was nose to tail all the way back to the roundabout, I was an hour late at the end.

4. No, they can't go under Whitehouse Bridge, wish they'd just lower it.

3. She didn't press the bell, moaned at me, but then stayed on until we came back round the loop.

2. The wind was so strong it blew the carrier clean out of her hand, landed in the drain.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. If this keeps up, it'll be quicker every time to just walk, bloody, sodding joke.

Overheard something we've missed? Then let us know.

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 259

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. If I swap this battery, that should give you a bit more.

9. She's sitting there, no her.

8. I bought four and I might keep them for meself.

7. Jason said we'd go all the way to his mum's for the weekend, but I don't fancy going all that way, might persuade it to be Burnham instead.

6. That Poldark's rubbish, all the accents are watered down.

5. If you lined them up, I couldn't pick that one who's left out of them, all look like fake boy band members, no distinguishing features.

4. But if she never married then he's not entitled to anything she might leave behind.

3. The traffic was so heavy I even considered walking, but then I passed the time with a tube of Pringles.

2. The egg was huge, I'm expecting a small group of chocolate people inside it.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. No, you can't use a double decker, it'll hit the bridge, then we'll never keep to time.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 258

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. He didn't reckon on my pants being that colour.

9. No, I don't believe it, you have no clue.

8. You've got to remember that their mortgage is way too big, even for Paul and Sandie at the top of the road.

7. I was being kind and it was just thrown back at me.

6. We went to the cinema, it was rubbish, can't stand going with her, she talks all the way through.

5. Have you seen they're shut the road, bloody ridiculous.

4. Two more trips on this then I'm off for two weeks.

3. He despatched two pallets without getting it signed off, I don't think they'll keep him.

2. Get 4 more stamps and I can get a ready toasted sandwich, but I prefer the salads.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I'm making the point that you can't expect anyone to care about the accounts, it's not a sexy department like marketing.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 257

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. If I were you, I'd stick to the blue cover, they had that in Made In Chelsea.

9. Did you think she wouldn't notice, it was on Facebook.

8. I left before Claire arrived with her cats from sales.

7. I must inform you that you're very wrong.

6. I've defaulted the jumper, it's the best I can do.

5. We went out for drinks, then I drove her home, to Covingham.

4. I was nearly late, but then I put my easier shoes on.

3. He always sits in that seat, OCD?

2. They're going to buy one for the other depot, should make them less pissy.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I'm getting ready for summer, diet has started, dug out the sunglasses and I've bought loads of new underwear.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Wheels off simple project in several Swindon Skating Moves

It appears West Swindon councillors are nursing grazed knees as the ability to deliver a small local project is beyond them.

The proposed-skate park in West Swindon at Rivermead is to be tendered again after the contractor increased the cost. Not surprising when councillors decide it should be built on a piece of open space prone to flooding.

Having discounted the views of children who will be a chunk of the users, you can't expect skaters of voting age to have much confidence in councillors to get the project done any time soon.

The 'no brainer' option would to be to have it at the Link Centre and have written the proposal into the contracts the council agreed with GLL, it's now operator.

Swindon Centric Says ; But then, if SBC councillors can't get GLL to answer their phone, what hope is there for contract writing or concrete-mixing in the Tory-blue wards of West Swindon?

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 256

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. He reads women's magazines and talks loudly about it, over-compensating.

9. There's no need to show in Tesco, Aldi have it all and it's more interesting.

8. They did need a drink after, Sarah said he left with that woman.

7. Bad news, he's moving to business investment, bad if you own a business.

6. If there was more time I'd have bought at least another two pairs of shoes, it's only for a long weekend, but I do love me shoes.

5. I watched that film about Stephen Hawking, pretty good, he deserved the Oscar.

4. Clarkson's done nothing wrong, I'd have been angry at cold ham after a day's hard presenting.

3. Dangerous that the only way of accessing the turning is to cut across two lines of manic traffic.

2. Keep them in the Primark bag, then you can hand them over when we get off.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Turn left at the roundabout, follow it to the petrol station then right and you'll see the first stop, but it's behind two massive conifers, so you might have to get out and go and check first.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 255

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. Read that memo that was stuck up, then forget all about it.

9. I'm not questioning your choice, but it's stupid and you know it Sharon.

8. There's not change, not for years now, when did you last go?

7. They didn't think much of her presentation, it was mainly about her and nothing about hiring policy.

6. Would you credit their chances of winning that contract?

5. Nandos, sick, totally sick.

4. Toasters need to be less complicated and stop it burning.

3. It's really sensitive, but I'm not putting any pressure on it to give some relief.

2. Keep it in that bag, then we can swap over when we get back, otherwise it'll go everywhere and this is quite a posh bus.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Ironically, Tash was seen out with him again at the same restaurant she took Mark last year, no shame.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 254

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. You'll never get away with this.

9. Bullying isn't being properly dealt with.

8. That was a narrow escape, no salad for me.

7. I'm going to go for the first half an hour then head off.

6. Mol said I'd have to ring him first and see exactly what it was that she was so bothered by.

5. Wink at him and I'm sure there'll be more to come later.

4. Two sausage rolls and a cream horn, I didn't have any breakfast.

3. Where did he go? He was on the 13 when we got on at college.

2. It's a two-minute walk from where they live now, a lot nicer.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. He said they're going to move into the shop next door soon and start selling the full range again as they're still only to be imported and not made in the UK.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 253

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. I don't expect him to understand wearing that.

9. This is very serious, I only eat the unsalted ones.

8. That app is a rip off, it just gives you reviews of all the other apps.

7. There is no golf course in Surrey he's not been to and failed at each one.

6. I've done my part, it's up to Sue now to decide if she wants it built on the street side or in the loft.

5. Lowest at £1, but it just falls apart after a week or too and in the right light, it's see-through.

4. We'll end up with an office full of 10 year olds that haven't heard of negative equity.

3. Maybe if you moved your workspace to Manchester you'd get more support from the divisional office.

2.  I think that's a very good idea, I'll make sure he wears his full length ones on the holiday and see what difference it makes.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I can't remember a worse time since Clive use to come into work and lear over my asset management desk. I use to use a wet-wipe to clean up afterwards.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 252

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. No it's misty, that's not smoke.

9. In the interview she kept referring to KPIs, all I could think of was KP nuts.

8. I've not had these crisps since you could buy them in the canteen.

7. He's got crap all over his desk, their apartment must be like a tip.

6. What an undercut, knobber.

5. No the other side, over where you'd turn off for Eldene, he lives there, but it's a lot bigger than you'd imagine, you could park a tank on his front drive.

4. Too me ages to look like this, I tried on four pairs of trousers.

3. He wanted to keep things casual, so I've not seen him for a week.

2. Try to keep it to yourself, but I'm leaving after the next set of sales results.

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. Can you remember a time where you didn't care about your iPhone?

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 251

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. You smell of bacon.

9. Give me that back you thieving thief.

8. I tapped, unwrapped and then felt massively guilty.

7. I keep my ID badge in the same pocket as my minstrels, pastels, and weight watchers card.

6. Have a merry new year, or whatever it is.

5. That's exactly why when you asked me to come over, I pretended to be fixing the fridge.

4. I posted it on Facebook, no-one could be arsed to comment on it, so I've gone off grid.

3. Talking of Fiona, how long did you know her before she started to be a cow?

2. There he is, look, there, now!

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I play 1, 2, 6, 7, 18, 19 and 49, never won a single thing.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!

Top Ten Things Overheard On Swindon's Buses Last Week ; 250

Click here for the original at this brilliant idea, here's our own version for Swindon's buses from last week.

10. You can't, there's cameras.

9. If she wants me to work she'll have to really get it together, I'm not standing in the cold holding a tray again.

8. No, this does usually go that way, but the road's shut, so it's going back the way it use to go before I dyed my hair.

7. I've got one more of these, two hours off, then, who knows.

6. But it's what I'm truly passionate about, I just love Twitter.

5. He's newly divorced, but I think it's going to be good, I mean he can spend more time with his girlfriend now.

4. Don't think that gives you the right to do and say what you want just because I'm not with you.

3. There's little doubt in my mind that we're on the wrong bus.

2. I can't call him, what would I say? "Hi, I saw your arms on a poster at work and want you to hold me with them"?

And the number one overheard phrase on Swindon's buses from last week is...

1. I never go upstairs, I'm always worried the height and motion will make me seasick, plus stairs never agree with me.

Overheard something we've missed? Then email swindoncentric@gmail.com or leave a comment and your phrase could make it onto next weeks list!