April 1992 Swindon Link

west Swindon's

Magazine

EXPRESS CYCLE SPECIALIST

cyclehelmetsin stock from (*~O £17.95 Think SAFETY Concrete hurts heads No. 121

•

April 1992

•

Circulation 10,500

96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon (0793) 534907 & 513705

THE GENERAL ELECTION The Link Magazine's four way whammy!!

Did you know the electorate in West Swindon makes up 20% of the potential votes in the Swindon constituency?

So ignore all you've seen on television or heard on the radio, pass by the poster hoardings, don't bother with what the papers say. Turn to pages ,4 and 5 and read why all four of Swindon's candidates think you, the residents of West Swindon, should vote for them.

Electronic messages could keep streets cleaner Thamesdown Council cleaning chiefs have come up with a hi-tech way of reducing the street cleansingbil whilst raising some cash for their hard pressed service.

For years, birthday greetings on posters and banners inpublicplaces put up by West Swindon residents in the early hours has caused the cleansing department aggravation because of the extra manpower required to dismantle the displays.

Now they've come up with an innovative and clean way of allowing people to get their message across to their friends.

Working with a new Swindon company DupeCommunications', the Council is to start trial testing a number of electronic notice boards located at strategic roundabouts around the town. These will flash out birthday greetings or other friendly messages to drivers.

Confirming that the trials will start on 1st April, a spokesman for the Council said, "Thamesdown is well known for its innovation and

partnership with business; wewelcomed the opportunity of promoting a new product from Swindon.

"We have two objectives in this year long trial. We want to encourage community spirit by helping people communicate in a public way to their friends and loved ones they've been doing this for years with the banners. And at the same time, we want to see if we can reduce the cost of removing these home made displays of friendship.

"The low cost of sending a message willwe hope turn people away from DIY sign boards and earn some cash which will be returned to make the streets cleaner.

"The type of message displayed will of course be strictly monitored but I imagine there will be some interesting ones. It will be like Valentine's day throughout the year."

-

DIY signs Things of the past from 1st April?

Youth to benefit from Ricky's trust A trust fund for West Swindon's youth is being set up in memory of the area's longest serving councillor Ricky Midwinter, who died of cancer in February.

Colleague councillor Sue Bates said, "Ricky was always concerned thatyoungpeoplein the area didn't get a fair of crack of the whip and were often mis-represented in the local media."

She added that the details of the trust fund were being worked out and a public meeting was being considered where Ricky's friends could express their appreciation for his work in the community.

Anyone who wants to make a donation to the 'Ricky Midwinter Memorial Trust Fund' can make their contributions at the Cheltenham and Gloucester building society, account no K37580/4.

2

MGM winners "Just to let you know about the diet. I've lost pounds!" 'said you could do it with1 the help of a Cambridge Counsellor."

1

the (7hbr!de Diet

HAIR REMOVAL BY THE ZAHRA METHOD SUGARING Banish all unwanted hair Book an appointment with DOREEN your full-time local QUAUFIED ZAIIRA PRACTITIONER In the PRIVACY of her spacious house and her well-fitted treatment room you can relax and enjoy Doreen treating you in comfort.

DEVELOPED BY DOCTORS OVER 20 YEARS

For details of your local Counsellor, call Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on 873201

RING DOREEN NOWI SWINDON 876590

DO YOU NEED FURNITURE REPAIRING OR RE-UPHOLSTERING?

OAKWOOD UPHOLSTERY will re-upholster and repair all types of upholstered furniture including domestic, antique, office, hotel and restaurant.

Full range of fabrics.

All work guaranteed.

Tel: Swindon 725733 for a free estimate

Take a tour with Bob on a bike

Last month we asked readers to celebrate the MGM 7 screen Cinema's first birthday by hunting through p the magazine to find the seven lions hidden in the pages.

There were hundreds of entries and the successful detectives, who win a pair of tickets, to a film of their choice are: Mrs A Maskins, Mortimer Close, Shaw Mrs Willett,HampshireClose,Shaw Nicola Courts, Bucklebery Close, Lower Stratton Matthew Embleton, Cabot Drive, Grange Park Miss C. Jackson, Ransome Close, Shaw Stephanie Ahmed, Birdcombe Road, Take to your cycle and discover the Westlea bikebyeways of West Swindon. Bob Pixton (above), local councillor and New date for chair of Thamesdown's EnvironAlbania departure mental Forum, is conducting a The truckloads of food and clothing guided tour around the area on Sunorganised by the Wootton Bassett day 26 April, starting at2.3opmfrom Appeal for Albanian Children are the Ice Rink entrance at the Link set to depart on the weekend of the Centre.

If you'd like to discover how many 25/26 April.

They were originally going on 6 interesting routes there are in and March but were advised by the Feed around the west, Bob's bike tour is The Children charity that political an ideal way of finding out. Adults unrest and food riots leading up to and children will be welcome; bring the elections on 22 March made the a picnic. trip too dangerous.

Grange Park clean-up

SWINDON'S

Link Centre Charity Market Sat. 18 April, 10am Bargains galore from community group stalls. To book a stall, telephone 871212 ext 234

Bob Pixton is holding a community clean-up at the Rectory Fields open space, behind Chandos Close in Grange Park.

Anybody willing to turn out to clear up a bit of litter and generally tidy up the open space for the summer is invited to go along on Saturday 11 April at 11am.

IIlthk MaØkP CAR BOOT SALE STARTS AGAIN ON SUNDAY 29th MARCH THEN EVERY SUNDAY, 8am - 1pm Southleaze Farm (behind Texas) Great Western Way, Swindon Refreshments available No need to book. No limit on spaces. £7 a pitch • £2 off with this advert (Only 1 advert per household per year.

Valid until 31 December 1992.)

Tooth

Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282

Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly.

Copy date for May edition: 16 April The May edition will be published on 1 May

/

The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984.

"The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Contents The General Election 4-5 Candidates 6 Toothill 7 Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 Westlea 9 Shaw 10 Local Lives 12 At Your Library 13 Arts & Entertainments 14 Recreation 15 - 23 News & Views

The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Ear to the ground?

Finger on the pulse?

The Link magazine is looking for

people living in Toothill, Freshbrook/Grange Park and Westlea who are in touch with their neighbourhoods. Could you report on them for us and make The Link even more responsive to community needs?

Experience in journalism is not necessary, but we would need concise, interesting articles. If you could write about groups, events, characters and general goings on, we'd like to hear from you.

Call Roger Ogle on 872282 to talk about how you could help.

General Election Mayhem Link magazine political correspondent Sheila Mitchell reveals a scandal in the making

As the date of the General Election approaches it has been revealed to party chiefs that due to an oversight, many of the elected candidates will be ineligible to take up their seat in the House of Commons.

A leaked Government memo, due for release on 1 April, explains that under the terms of the 'Representation of the People's Act' all candidates must register their intention to stand for election twenty-one days before the election date. However, whilst all candidates complied with this ruling some of the nomination papers have been lost and this has rendered their campaign and subsequent election null and void.

Fifty six constituencies throughutthecountiy,includingSwindon, re affected and unless the papers n be found another election will

have to be held once the new government has been formed. Until then however, the fifty six constituencies will not be represented in Parliament which could have detrimental consequences for the constituents concerned.

The Government is hoping that the problem can be rectified and anyone with any information regarding the missing nomination forms is requested to contact Mr OP Foallir at the House of Commons.

Editors note: The General Election has deposed our annual April Fool competition. But this unsolicited article by Sheila Mitchell of Moresby Close, Westlea, author of a piece of scandal on a poll tax on pets two years ago, seemed topical and is included in the hope of spreading a few smiles.

Business help wanted

Trading again

taff at Greendown School is plang two week work placements for early 200 year 11 students, to take lace between 14 and 25 September.

Placements of any kind will be onsidered. Employers who can elp are asked to contact the placeentorganiserEric Bullion atGreenown on 874224.

Swindon's largest car boot sale reopens for the summer on Sunday 29 March at Southleaze Farm.

The well established sale attracts an average of 3,000 customers each Sunday and between 100 and 200 boots. There is no limit on the space available to sellers and a pitch costs only £5 if the advertisement printed opposite is used.

To help community and charity groups fundraise, spaces are available without charge, sub ject to proof of status.

Southleaze Farm is to be found behind the Texas Dfl' store next to Mannington roundabout. The car boot sale opens at 8am and closes at 1pm. Refreshments are available.

Exercise for 50+

Spot a dumper

he Golden Opprortunities Club fleets at Freshbrook Community entre on Wednesdays from 0.30am tp 11.30am.

Jill Martin, pictured above, wants meet any over SOs who would like enjoy an hourof gentle exercise to usic and indoor games like soft all, table tennis and boccia. ore information from theThamesown Lifestyle Unit on 693787.

Eagle eyed Shaw resident Adrian Evans, who runs AE Paving, saw workers from a landscape maintenance company dumping grass cuttings and weeds on a strip of rough ground opposite the Shaw Ridge Pizza Hut. His telephone call to Thamesdown Council's Dumping Hotline resulted in the removal of the dumped material under threat of prosecution.

If you spot somebody dumping illegally, telephone Geoff Davies on 526161 ext 3298.

Cabouchon

/NTERIORS

QUALITy JRTcA I?V, 1)c741-CPa4 PT?

EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER JEWELLERY AT EVERYDAY PRICES

&

PLEASE RING ME

cACCrSSOR3-ES 38 HAVELOCK STREET SWINDON TEL: 513701

FOR A CATALOGUE

I)

t

JANET GARRET MARKETING DIRECTOR

TEL: 870108

TECHNO WINDOWS & DOORS Style and Elegance to Compliment your Home * * *

Replacement Windows & Doors in White or Woodgrain upvc Individually Designed to suit your requirements Installed by Time Served Fitters 10 Year Comprehensive Guarantee

A FREE uPVC DOOR with every order over £2,000 Tel: Swindon 511874

TOP GEAR DRIVING SCHOOL

L.

FRIENDLY PATIENT TUITION EXPERIENCED INSTRUCTOR

First Lesson - £5 only Tel: Phil Dixon on Swindon 533898

GOGG LEBOX Specialists in video and TV repairs Free home estimates all work guaranteed Service from 8am - 9pm

NO CALL OUT CHARGE Tel: Swindon 813485

23

4

Swindon's General

(— -V CONSERVATIVE

Liberal Democrats

Simon Coombs Conservative Party

Simon Cordon Liberal Democrats

West Swindon had continued to grow steadily and has become popular as an attractive place to live. Since the last election, the area has become more important as a place of work, with new jobs still being created and new offices at Windmill Hill and Westlea.

Whether community infrastructure - roads, schools, doctors' surgeries - can keep pace with development is a continuing concern. Over the past nine years, I have repeatedly taken these issues up on your behalf with local and national government, and have helped many individuals and community groups with a wide range of other problems. No one has ever been turned away.

As an area ofgrowth, job creation and prosperity, West Swindon cpitomises the fundamental strength in the British economy which has been built up under Conservative leadership. More people own their own homes and shares in industry. Real net income for families on average earnings has gone up by over a third since 1979 and access to consumer goods and basic utilities has improved dramatically.

While West Swindon mirrors this long-term strength, many local people have also felt the effects of the current world recession, particularly younger families in starter homes and those who have been forced to look for new jobs.

In a downturn, 'cure-alls' always look tempting. However, Labour's high tax and high spending policies would only make the situation worse and store up problems for the future. Nations can't spend their way out of slump any more than individuals can spend their way out of debt. In the end someone must pay the bill. And that person is invariably the taxpayer - and the consumer, through higher inflation.

The only sure way to keep the economy on course for recovery is through sound and careful economic management. Last month's Budget is the right way forward. The new 20% tax band for the lower paid - so bitterly opposed by Labour - will further stimulate the economy, boosting industry and small business, and helping families with their finances.

Locally, Swindon needs a policy for balanced growth - making job creation the priority, but ensuring that neighbourhoods and the environment are protected. Labour's policy of slowing down growth hinders local job creation, as does their favouring manufacturing over service industry when jobs in all sectors are needed.

Both locally and nationally, only the Conservatives have the policies which can keep us on course for recovery: by encouraging individual enterprise, keeping taxes and inflation down, curbing excessive trade union power, and improving essential public services and infrastructure by giving the people more power through the Citizens' Charter.

I hope that I can count on your support - for the future of West Swindon, the town and Britain as a whole.

Is it conceivable that this Conservative government could be reelected? It is, and the reason is devastating. Many people believe Labour could be even worse. For the legacy we face in 1992 is not just of 13 wasted Tory years, it is a story of failure by successive governments of both these parties over the decades.

That is why the Liberal Democrats say it's not just a new party

we need in government, but whole new SYSTEMofgovernment.

We need fair votes, less secrecy, stronger individual rights, more control over our own affairs. And we need fresh ideas.

Britain's economic performance is not helped by governments that manipulate the economy before elections. We would stop this with an independent central bank and full membership of the single currency. No other party offers this. It is unique to the Liberal Democrats.

Why do we tax wealth and jobs when we want more of both, but we don't tax pollution when we want less of it? Policies that tackle these questions to protect our environment are offered by the Liberal Democrats, by nobody else.

All parties argue that education and training is essential for future prosperity. They're right. But only the Liberal Democrats have said what the others are afraid to say. If the only way to pay for our ÂŁ2 billion education package is a penny on income tax, then we will do just that. Again unique to us. On offer from no-one else.

Our opponents would tell you that a Liberal Democrat vote is wasted. Never have they been so wrong. The only wasted vote in this election is one that puts back into power either of those parties who have governed for the past forty years. In contrast, every Liberal Democrat vote will be a vote to change Britain for good, a further vote with which Paddy Ashdown can argue for a better fairer Britain.

As a Swindon man I want the very best for my town. A strong local MP, who will see that our voice is heard whenever and wherever. It is no surprise therefore that I am spending much of my time talking about the things that matter to Swindon people, -a pensioners' bus pass, no to PMH opting-out, investment in Park and Ride as part of a programme of unclogging our roads, and the need for Swindon to stop growing and invest in areas that have been neglected, like the town shopping centre. As a West Swindon councillor for the past seven years I hope that I have proven my ability to put the local community before my party, something I would continue to do as our MP. The Liberal Democrat programme, for Swindon and for Britain, is unique to us. It is offered by no-one else. And the only way to get it, is to vote Liberal Democrat.

lect.*.on Ca., id.-*.dates

5

cjiccn patty

JLabour Jim D'Avila Labour Party

Are you happy that you live in a country where the gap between rich and poor has become the most severe since records began, not by accident or by mismanagement, but because it was planned?

Where people, some of them children, sleep on the streets because social services changes leave them little alternative?

Where housing subsidy has been cut for the 'have-nots', yet lavished on the 'haves'?

In which Her Majesty's Inspectors, reporting on the schools to which most ofus send our children (even if Government Ministers don't), find one in four unsatisfactory?

Where the trains run late and dirty - or don't run at all, not because we lack an effective Citizen's Charter, but because levels of subsidycommonpiace in Europe are here seen as somehow immoral?

Where record home repossessions and mortgage arrears, fuelled by a tripling unemployment to 11.8%, has caused hardship to thousands in once Boom Town Swindon?

Where thousands more still struggle to pay the Government imposed Poll Tax after its architect, Mrs Thatcher, has long been despatched?

The Government had a golden opportunity to start to tackle all these problems if they really cared. Instead we were treated to a 'Budget of marginal tax cuts and gimmicks'.

What good are these when our children are expected to learn in over-crowded classrooms and jumble sales are held to buy school books? What good are these when we have to wait months and months for routine hospital operations? What good are these when the roads in Swindon are blocked with traffic? What good are marginal tax cuts when you have no job?

It's now time for you to choose.

Labour has the policies, the priorities and the team ready for Government. Policies to rebuild and renew the public services in health and education, in transport and local government. Policies to regenerate manufacturing and bring economic recovery. This, I believe, is what people want.

In thirteen years of power, the Tories have wasted the unique opportunity provided by North Sea oil revenues. The income from privatisation and a higher tax burden have all been dissipated with so little to show for it. Then they brought in the Poll Tax and now propose the Council Tax. The results ofthe Government's neglect, incompetence and irresponsibility are plain to see everywhere.

Their economic policy was just one big experiment - and it has failed miserably. The Government should not be allowed to go unpunished for their arrogance.

It's time for them to go.

It's time for a change. Time for a Government that believes in Britain and the British people, a Government that will invest in Britain and the British people.

It's time for Labour. Together we can win.

Bill Hughes Green Party

It is a great honour to be standing as Swindon's first Green Party candidate for a Parliamentary election. I have lived in Swindon since 1972, am married with two grown up sons and two cats.

I have been secretary ofSwi n don & District Green Partysince 1983 and have stood in many local elections since. I was also the Green Party candidate for Wiltshire in the 1989 European election gaining 22% of the vote. Nationally the Green Party got 15% of the vote putting green issues centre stage of the agenda.

The Green Party offers hope for the future against the present backcloth of recession, world starvation, population explosion, resources running out and increasing pollution. The other grey parties are offering more of the same - uncontrolled economic growth - live for today and forget tomorrow!

Mankind must live in harmonywith nature ifwe are to survive. Also it is vital we learn to live together in harmony and peacefully. Now the 'red menace' of the Soviet empire has disintegrated it is an ideal time to produce a real peace dividend - scrap the insanity of nuclear weapons like Trident and all other offensive military technology.

Productive resources should be put to ecologically sound enterprises such as renewable energy sources of solar, wind, water, cleaner use of coal, massive energy conservation schemes. Agriculture must be converted to organic systems and all aspects of industry must conserve resources through making things to last, easy to repair or be recycled.

Our economic and social infrastructure must be improved by working on a human scale, whether transport, education, water and sewage systems, methods of taxation and social security. Instead of the massive nationally controlled bureaucracies such as the schools National Curriculum which involve mountains ofpaper work, schools should decide their own curriculum and methods. Local community banks will ensure our money is used for the benefit of local people, our Basic Income scheme will ensure financial security for all, local community ground rent and resource taxes will mean we develop a sound economy without destroying our environment or exploiting our people.

Co-operation not competition is the key to future development.

We must not be dominated by the economic madhouse of the EEC where huge multi-national companies decide our fate and where Britain is struggling to trade with a pound grossly overvalued in the straightjacket of the ERM. Racism is growing - Greens propose vigorous anti-racist measures and would guarantee equal opportunities for women and for all minority groups.

We advocate a Bill ofRights, Freedom oflnformation Act and a fair electoral system using the additional member system.

9th April is your chance to say 'save the planet' and start living as a human race again.

TOOTH ILL

6

"A Touch of Class" Complete Freelance Secretarial Service for individuals and the smaller business Shorthand, Word Processing Spreadsheets for letters, Reports, Manuscripts Mailshots, CV's, Theses, etc.

Tel: Miriam on Swindon (0793) 527849

RALPH PALMER PHARMACY 3 Deerhurst Way Toothifl Houis of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m.

230p.m. - 6p.m.

Telephone: 512063

Easter Fete 28 March, 2pm - 4pm Toothill Community Centre Tombola, Raffle, Cake Stall, Hunt the Egg, Treasure Hunt, Also, Easter Bonnet Competition, judging at 3pm Ad: Adults 20p, Children lop In aid of Toothill Tots Playgroup

You're invited to a Coffee Morning with a Difference Saturday 4 April lOam -12noon at Toothill Church Admission 20p Organised by the Junior Church in aid of Toothill Church Funds

Table lop Sale 11 April, lpm-3pm Toothill Community Centre Tables booked before £4; £5 on day To book ring 614492 between 9am and 3pm

Church prepairs for repairs

Teenagers wanted for centre club

Parents invited

The youth club at Toothill Community Centre has recently acquired a lot of games and equipment. Now they are looking for teenagers to use them.

The club is open to young people of 13 years and upwards and meets on Tuesday 815pm - 9.45pm and Thursday 7.30pm - 9.45pm.

Youth worker Janet Freeguard and her helpers will be glad to see you.

TheToothill After School Club holds its annual general meeting on Wednesday 8 April, 7.30pm at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive.

The club caters for children who attend Toothill and Oliver Tomkins School. Working parents and guardians interested in finding out more about After School Care for their children, and other supporters of the club, are invited to attend the meeting to hear a guest speaker and elect a new management committee. Refreshments will be available.

Toothill's Neighbourhood Worker Miriam Minty who is on maternity leave had a baby boy on Tuesday 17 March. He weighed in at 91b loz.

Miriam plans to be return to work at the beginning of July.

In the meantime Audrey Johnson was appointed on 16 March to cover the post on a temporary basis and will be providing support for local community projects and groups.

Baby arrives

Rev Ian Handscombat Toothill Church

The Toothill Church congregation is busily fundraising to repair its building, 13 years after it was built.

The Link magazinewas the first to report the structural damage to the church caused by three dry summers and poor workmanship. Although the building is safe to use, subsiding walls will have to rebuilt and allthewindow frames replaced.

The church wants to build an extension and an architect's report detailing the repairs, the new building and the costs is being considered.

Insurance will cover some of the repairs, but an appeal for around £300,000 is likely to be launched to fund the extension. Church interests, the community and business will be asked to support the effort.

-a.

,tl

WHEN YOU BRING YOUR CAR TO US WEST SWINDONS NEWEST M.O.T. CENTRE IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SIT BACK AND ENJOY A COFFEE WHILE WE WORK ON YOUR CAR

AA

We're h.re next to the incinerator

• M O.Ts WHILE YOU WAIT • FULLY EQUIPPED WORKSHOPS

.

• SERVICING AND TUNING • WELDING AND BODYWORK REPAIRS • 24HR BREAKDOWN AND RECOVERY • WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND TRACKING

AUTO SERVICES UNIT 10, RIVER RAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE BARNFIELD ROAD, SWINDON

• STEAM CLEANING • WE CAN ALSO COLLECT YOUR CAR

TEL

U

We Swindon

Centre

(0793) 614442

Westlea

PAC I

Toothill

EVENINGS: 615435

M10A,

7 i

M.A.A.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Angela comes close Angela Walklate, the dressmaker from Barkstead Close, Freshbrook who we featured in last month's Link, took the runner-up prize in the evening wear category of the Creative Stitches Dressmaker of the Year show on 13 March held in Skipton, Yorkshire.

She said that seeing the work of so many other good amateur dressmakers was a very good experience which has given her inspiration for the future.

Angela's family attended the show to cheer her on. She won a Liberty tapestry sowing box and a range of habedashery.

Table Top Sale Freshbrook Community Centre Saturday 4 April, 2pm - 4pm Bargains, cake stall & refreshments. Entrance 20p Organised by Greendown Playgroup Easter Fun Day Freshbrook Community Centre Sunday 5 April, 1.30pm Bouncy castle, tin can alley, cake stall, raffle, tombola Under 5s Easter Bonnet Parade Further information from 497109 In aid of Freshbrook Parent & Toddler Group

7

Craft Fair Saturday 4 April Freshbrook School Free admission Telephone 872450 for information Organised by Friends of Freshbrook School

Car

Easter Fayre Saturday 11 April, 1 p Freshbrook Community Centre Adults 20p, Children free pm Bonnet competition Tombola, cakp" soft toys and lots fl1rv Tor all the family. raster eggs to be won

an4fPdIitSj'raying Free Umates

Unit 12 Brindley Close, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon

0793 421125

V

0860 808061

Girls ofthe newFreshbrook Guides were recently inducted at candle lit ceremony in Freshbrook Church. Pictured below, the new guides with their leaders

FACECHOICE CHEMIST Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870226

Photographic Developing & Printing 1 - 27 exp. £3.99 28 - 40 exp. £4.99 Stockist of a wide range of toileteries, baby products, French perfumes and household goods

M

E

Auocote

MORTGAGE & INSURANCE SERVICES

Mansfield Begbie Associates

NO MORE STAMP DUTY!!!

For all those of you who have been thinking about moving house, the recent removal of stamp duty by the Government until August 1992 will obviously mean a substantial saving in the cost of home purchase.

Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you.

We have special discounts available NOW for First Time Buyers!!

We can arrange fixed rate mortgages with the major Building Societies and Banks from as low as 9.30% with no deferral of interest We can also arrange new loans at a variable rate of 8.95% with no deferral of interest (discounted rate which is 2% below the base rate of 10.95% for 12 months), subject to status, e.g. a mortgage of £50,000 could cost £316.98 per month at 8.95%.

There are NO HIDDEN CLAUSES! You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs.

WE CHARGE NO ARRANGEMENT FEES Swindon 873369 (2 lines) lJ Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Marketing Group, (members of which are members of Lour and I.M.R.0.) in relation to life assurance, pensions and unit trust business only REMEMBER: YOUR HOME ISAT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT.

WESTLEA

8

Fashion Show Westlea School Wednesday 1 April, 8pm Autumn/Winter range and New Spring/Summer collection from Studio Dee Westlea £94,950 Immaculate 4 bedroom family home 2 full bathrooms, utility, secondary glazing, south facing rear garden, 22' garage.

Company relocation. NO CHAIN. Offers considered for very quick sale and immediate move.

Tel: 0793 -871011

COOKS T.V& VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE FREE

Home Estimates Repairs by Qualified Engineers.

Sales & Rentals All Work Guaranteed

Tel: Swindon

825795 NO CALL OUT CHARGE

Tickets from Westlea School Office £1

Qualified Professional Home Stylist

The children of Westlea Playgroup held a sponsored obstacle course in March to raise money for new equipment. Pictured finding their balance, from front, Craig Roberts, Laura Lee -McCrae, Laura Collings, Rachel Callan, Nico Adhen

Telephone Alison on 882426

Correction: Last month we stated that the new Westlea Senior Citizens coffee morning meets on a Wednesday. In fact it meets on the 1St & 3rd Thursdays of the month at 1 O.3Oam in the Sunshine Room social hail.

The April get-togethers will take place on 1 and 16 April.

RON AHRENS BUILDER DECORATOR Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating, carpentry & plastering.

All work guaranteed.

No job too small.

Free estimates

Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)

Spice is nice The smell of spices and delicious cooking drifted through Westlea School on 10 March as Alison Pass' year 5 class spent a day preparing a range of dishesas part of their pro ject on India.

Parent Sue Sheikh from WoodChester organised small groups of children to make and cook samosas, tandoori chicken, salads and samaya milk pudding.

The children visited an Indian restaurant earlier in the month to see food beingprepared and havea taste of different dishes.

Daniel Tracy said that he made eggs and bacon for his mum on Saturdays, but this was the first time he had cooked Indian food.

Afterall the food had been cooked, the whole class sat down to enjoy an early tea before they went home.

Kamaldeep Bharaj, Samuele Pavone, Paul Bruce, Daniel Tracey and Sophie Stratford with Sue Sheikh and Matthew Daniels at the rear

Philip Stone Painter & 1 Decorator For a high standard of work with references available

Telephone now for aFPEE estimate Tel: 870515

"It's the only name and number you need"

• ROOFING • PLUMBING • GLAZING • ELECTRICS • PATIOS - CARPENTRY EXPRESS

• DRAINS • DECORATING - BRICKWORK

24 hour SERVICE SWINDON

490000

SHAW

Jackie exercises for playgroup Jackie Wozniak, pictured right, is a woman who like a challenge. She spent last summer trudging around Shaw, Roughmoor and Nine Elms delivering letters and putting up posters advertising the playschool she intended starting at the newly opened Roughmoor Social Hall.

All that hard work has paid off and Sunny Smiles' is scheduled to open in September. But is Jackie taking a well earned rest - not likely!

She is now embarking on her most ambitious venture yet, a triathlon to raise more funds for the group.

Jackie is in training for her gruelling 10 lap swim at the Link pool, followed by a 20 lap skate around the ice rink and topped up with a run from the LinkCentreto the Shaw Village Inn to take place on 7 April between 8pm and 10pm.

If you can sponsor Jackie 'phone her on 873284.

9

Welcome home

Shaw WI

Residents in The Laurels, Shaw recently welcomed the return of one of their neighbours after a two month stay in hospital.

David Rowell is well known in TheLaurels as founder memberand coordinator of the local neighbourhood watch scheme.

The residents presented David, a keen cmssworder, with a thesauraus and a book on the history of Africa.

The February meeting held on 17th at Shaw Village Hall included the ACM and a most interesting, en lightening and amusing talk by Libby Shepherd, a representative from the Deaf Children Society (the group's chosen charity for 1992).

The next meeting is on 13 April at 7.30pm(Shaw Village Hall), and the speaker will be giving a talk on Canada. Visitors are welcome to come and spend the evening with the WI members.

For further details please contact Kay Twyman on 871614.

Acorns say goodbye and hello Pledge a promise There is still time to pledge an idea or a service to the Friends of Salt Way Auction of Promises onFriday I May. For further details phone Wendy Hughes on 876523 or Carol Buttle on 874284 after 6pm.

Balloon up for Shawties Members of theShawties Parentand metabolic diseases in children. Two Toddler Group which meets in Old yearoldShawties member Matthew Skew Chapel recently held a 'Keep Stone, featured in last month's Link It Up' morning. magazine, suffers from such a conThe under threes had to see how dition. He can only eat low protein long they could keep a balloon in the foods and his life's on the line all the air. The twenty youngsters raised time because of the risk from infec£150 with a bit of help from their tion. The money will help a little in parents. discovering how Matthew can be £30 was donated to research into helped as he grows older.

Carolyn and Matthew Stone in the centre as the Shawties get ready to put their balloons in the air

Acorns Playgroup, which meets at the Holy Trinity Church, Shaw, welcomes a new member of staff, Pam Sloggett. Parents, colleagues and committee members said goodbye and thankyou toHilaryHunterwho has been with the playgroup for a year.

Acorns, which opened in November 1990, runs four sessions on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings 9.15am - 12 noon. For further details concerning place availability, contact the Waiting List Secretary on 872074.

Acorns are on the look-out for some extra equipment - in particular a climbing frame and some Duplo. If anyone can help, please phone the above mentioned number.

Bouncy Castle Hive 12'x12' & 14'x14'

For Parties Cf Events

Can be used indoors in aU community haus V 762955

FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTANCY FOR THE SELF EMPLOYED & SMALLER BUSINESS + EASY TO USE ACCOUNTS PACKAGES WITH VIDEO AND GUIDE

+ Ks BOOK-KEEPING TO A MINIMUM AND LETS US GIVE A FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTS/TAX/AUDIT SERVICE

+

HOT LINE SUPPORT - REGULAR HELP MEETINGS

RING NOW FOR FREE NO OBLIGATION DISCUSSION MILL HILL ASSOCIATES

'A Room with a View'

TEL: (0793) 874260

Whether it's for a boat, caravan, or trailer.

From only £2300 Inc VAT

BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE

For the best deal in Swindon today see our example prices below, inc. of VAT

Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Swindon

UPVC Sun Lounge Sun Lounge Victorian Victorian

•

Hardwood

11x8 £3399 10x8 £2499 14x8 £2999 15x8 £4199 11x8 £2999 10x9 13799 11 x 12 13899 13 x 9 £3899

C. W. CONSERVATORIES. 0793 - 772529 or 0666 510557 or 0831 372436

Can Help!

* Towbars for Cars, Vans & Light Vehicles * Seat Belts (Kangol & Bntax Approved) Or Child Safety Seats Tel: 0793 613147, 0793 488622

LOCAL LIVES

10

Women on the Move Women represent 44% of the workforce and despite the recession, with an aging population, more women will be needed to work in the future. Sheila McKenna from Shaw (pictured below) attended a women returners' conference at the Shaw Ridge De Vere Hotel on 10 March to find out about the opportunities for getting a job.

and without contacts. So when I saw the advertisement in the local press entitled Women on the Move, promoting a conference for Women Returners' wanting to move on and up the management ladder, you can imagine my immediate interest.

The conference was opened by Chris Simons Managing Director of Growth Through Training Ltd. and a member the national organisation Women Returners' Network. She explained the conference ,sponsored by the WiltshireTra ining and Enterprise Council, was taking place during Adult Learning Week and National Women's Week, a very relevant date in the year's calendar.

The first two speakers were Carol Jackson, Placement Co-ordinator Manager, of Rede Products Ltd. These two ladies both gave a very from North Wessex Training Ltd. and Lorna Marshall, Area Account interesting account of how they had participated in a Women in Management Course and over a period -N-.-' -, of 3 months blossomed from jobs --, --v' "__\ /••.-•-'... where they felt unable to progress, Carol running her florist business from home and Lorna as a supply teacher, to becoming 'full of beans' and enthusiastic at their new studWordprocessing ies on IT, Database and Spreadsheet & Professionally made applications using computers and FESTOON & developing assertiveness skills.

Secretarial Services AUSTRIAN BLINDS They gained motivation, career advice and participated in project Friendly personal For a fast, efficient and work which took them into Swinservice from confidential service guaranteed don companies. Both ladies illusmeasuring to hanging.

• Letters • Mailshots • Reports trated that, although not always a Also made to Manuscripts • CV's smooth path, it is possible to juggle measure curtains.

• Theses • Dissertations the commitments of family and a Telephone working life, especially when there Call Pat on Swindon 722486 Swindon 770600 is the support of an organisation such as the Women Returners' Network who promote education, trainArchitectural Designer ing and links with employers.

BAArCh Jane Goodwin, Manager of the Women's Development Programme Personal Service for all your Building Plans at Westminster College, Oxford exLocal Authority Approvals Domestic Extensions & Alterations a Speciality plained in great detail the types of Period & Modern courses and qualifications available Independent Kitchen Design to 'Senior Women Returners'.

Enquiries welcome anytime Swindon 616605 (Freshbrook) Courses range from Day Seminars

I moved into West Swindon a year ago from Essex, leaving behind friends and contacts and my daughter who moved in another direction to college in Cambridge.

Like many others this move was as a result of my husband's re-location with a large company. The move also meant I had to leave an interesting and growing job. Fortunately I was lucky and quickly established myself in a new job with an American Computer Manufacturer where I applied my Sales Support experience and increased my knowledge for the industry, all very rewarding. However the recession was catching up and in February I along with 50% of the staff were made redundant. This in itself is quite a blow to anyone but even more so when one is in a new area

PATRICIA HULME

ENISE' DRAPES

Carolyn Phi lii p po

The magnificent new Jigsaw Day Nursery at Windmill Hill is now open for under-5s

to 10 week courses spread over several months, perhaps only involving I day per week attendance at the College. There are a variety of courses to suit different needs, having a great deal of flexibility and with suitable hours, 930am to 330pm. Courses are made up of distance learning and face to face teaching, individual tutorials and counselling. If you are to gain from attending you must expect to apply commitment.

Irene Rimmer of Digital Equipment, an Education Consultant, explained there are some prices to pay and to take into consideration, for climbing the ladder of success. Its all a matter of personal values.

There were, I discovered during lunch, women from variety of backgrounds present. Some employed in the voluntary sector, some unemployed with excellent experience, some wishing to branch out in new directions and some with specialised skills working from home. All were keenly interested in thecourses available.

Summing up the days events Ruth Michaels, President of the Women Returners' Network said women represent 44% of the workforce, hardly a minority group, and she felt strongly that training had to be provided forwomen to advance and not remain restricted to traditional roles. Wiltshire TEC provides good contacts with local employers and the WRN influences theTEC in terms of women's needs for training working together to develop new opportunities.

My conclusion was that there is a lot of information and assistance available to women. It was a very informative and interesting day shared by 80 other women who departed inspired as I was.

• Chris Simmons of the Womens Returners' Network can be contacted on 611285.

Parents can now work with peace of mind, knowing that their children are learning and playing in a secure and caring environment.

Full-time and part-time places now available.

For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact Ruth Forbes at The Jigsaw Day Nursery Windmill Hill Business Park Whitehill Way Swindon SN5 9NX Tel: (0793) 877646

jigsaw

New way to childcare Childcare in West Swindon took on a new dimension on 12 March when the area's first day nursery was opened by Thamesdown's Mayor, Councillor Eric Smith.

Built by Jigsaw Day Nurseries on the Windmill Hill Business Park at a cost of ÂŁ300,000, the 66 place nursery can accommodate children from 3 months to 5 years, and is open to all families in the area, whether or not they work at the business park.

The Mayoropened the brand new, bright and airy building designed to exceed the stringent requirements laid down by the 1989 Children Act in terms of the space available and the number of childcare staff.

When fully occupied, the nursery will have a team of 16 carers working with manager Ruth Forbes and her deputy Rosemary Albone.

There are four separate rooms for the care of babies, Ito 2s, 2 -3 year olds, and 3-5 year olds, plus an art/ craft mom for painting and drawing, sand and water play. Outside there is a large grassed area with sand pit and climbing frame and also a covered patio so that rainy days won't spoil the fun.

The equipment and materials used in the Jigsaw are of the highest quality to compliment the considerable effort put into designing a safe, stimulating environment which will fascinate the most timid and the most adventurous child.

A key element of the Jigsaw nursery is the Department of Education and Science endorsed educational programme, created to encourage learning through play so that a child's intellectual, physical and social skills aredeveloped whilst he or she is being cared for.

The nursery is open from 8am to

NO 19pecial Discounts NO Free Gifts NO geasonal Offers Pictured with Jigsaw children Steven Brandon and Callum Laithwaite, the Mayor of Thamesdown, Jigsaw Chairman Sam Wainwright CBE, Nursery ManagerRuthForbesandJigsawManaging Director Tom Shea 6pm, 52 weeks of the year. All meals are prepared on the premises by designated catering staff to menus approved by a qualified child nutritionist.

Jigsaw managing director Tom Shea said the company aims to provide the highest quality daycare possible which will benef it children, their parents and provide a benefit to employers.

Nursery manager Ruth Forbes said, "because the nursery is purpose designed and built, the whole building is child friendly right down to the colour coding of the doors, green for 'go' and red for 'no.' The separate areas for different ages of children, the well qualified staff and the high standani of equipment provides a superb environment for children to develop in."

To find out more about the Jigsaw nursery or to arrange a visit, telephone Ruth Forbes on 877646.

Smooth Legs this Spring?

Yes, it's coming around to that time of the yea r again. Will you be resorting to your husband's Bic? Or will you take the less troublesome route of professional waxing?

Connie Jeapes of Jeepers Beauty Treatments & Aromatherapy removes unwanted hair with a totally natural wax, incorporatingbeeswax and an organic resin which leaves your skin dry but soft and silky. The treatment is quick and long lasting up to 6 weeks of silky skin with no stubbly regrowth. And this method of removal weakens the regrowth, so the hair becomes softer.

Disposable spatulas and linen strips make the treatment totally hygienic and suitable for all parts of the body including legs, bikini line and underarms etc.

For permanent hair removal, Connie offers a free consultation to discuss electrolysis prior to treatments. So why put up with nagging hair problems this Spring and Sum-

11

NO Champagne or Holiday

WE OFFER A QUALITY OF PRODUCT AND PERSONAL SERVICE SECOND TO NONE.

GUARANTEED LOWEST COST NO SALESMEN NO DEPOSIT U.P.V.C., HARDWOOD, ALUMINIUM SECONDARY DOUBLE GLAZING DOORS, WINDOWS PATIO DOORS, PORCHES CONSERVATORIES, REPAIRS SURVEYING SERVICE FOR THE D.I.Y. / BUILDER

•BUDGET WINDOWS & DOORS TELEPHONE

(Q73) 94qlSq Connie Jeapes carrying out electrolysis treatment on a client mer? Telephone Connie for an appointment on 772123, evening appointments are also available. All enquiries in confidence.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK TELEPHONE 871793

12

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Native Americans on show

CLEANING ENTERPRISES

by Librarian Phil Edwards

(WROUGHTON) For professional on-site cleaning of Carpets, Curtains, Upholstery and Vertical Blinds.

Staff change

Specialist, Oriental Rug Cleaning service.

Licensed 'Scotchcare' services company.

For enquiries and estimates ring 812575 A MM,AQ

T,

N(L

Established since 1963

AY (40 a,

IMUNAEON AIQ IQA'ffJ CO IJIJAi1 Paris Rome Amsterdam

£69 £130 £79

Madrid £116 Lisbon £116 Nice £121 Naples £125 Plus many, many more Tel: Swindon (0793) 871821 or Weston (0934) 812472 Open 7 days a week, 9am 9pm Retail agents for ATOL holders -

P

MAKE A DATE TO SKATE THIS EASTER Visit our ice skating rink within the superb Link Centre Multi-Leisure Complex.

FREE SKATE HIRE WITH THIS COUPON

This month sees the departure of Jacquelyn Else (pictured right) Assistant Librarian, to a Health Information Officer post in Cambridge.

She has been with us for well over three years and has taken a particular interest in community information and 'junior'activities where she will be greatly missed. lamsure our customers will join the staff at West Swindon Library in wishing herwell in her new life in Cambridge.

Exhibition The plight of the North American Indian for so long the butt of numerous 'Western' films, has received much publicity in recent years and interest in theirculture has increased greatly. At the American Museum near Bath, we can glimpse something of the life of the native American.

The John Judleyn Memorial is associated with the museum, and they are supplying the exhibition at the library during April. It will include artifacts, together with illustrations and extracts from the work of George Catlin. The following gives an indication of his life and work: 'Catlin was born in 1796 and died in 1872. He trained as a lawyer but in 1824 he became a painter and by 1830 was studying the many Indian tribes of North America. He recognised that the advance westward of the white man, his whisky, smallpox and greed would soon destroy the traditional way of life of the American Indian. Five years after painting portraits of the Mandan tribe ,the entire tribe was wiped out by a smallpox epidemic. Catlin's letters and notes' not only demonstrate the acute eye of the artist as observer but also provide an unprejudiced account in language which is direct and remarkably 'undated'.

It promises to be a fascinating exhibition. It runs from 2 to 29 April.

Junior Information Books There are some marvelously illustrated junior non-fiction books available. Recently arrived is 'The American Frontier' by Nigel Smith. It includes a chapteron the native Americans with several of George Catlin's paintings as illustration of the Indian way of life.

The requirements of school projects often mean that there are subject areas where we never seem to have enough books to satisfy demand. A recurrent topic is famous scientists. Two new titles which should help is the Wayland 'Pioneers of Science Series': 'Albert Einstein' by Peter Lafferty, and 'Louis Pasteur' by Nina Morgan.

When is comes to quality illustrations and layout the publishers Dorling Kindersley have produced a series entitled 'Eyewitness Guides',

which are very hard to beat. 'Bible Lands', produced in association with the British Museum has beautiful photographs and illustrations, interspersed with an informative text.

Other new titles which should prove useful for homework include 'History ofMedicine' by Steve Pa rker, 'Fashions of a Decade: the 1950's by Patricia Baker and 'Looking Back: Work'byPhilipSauvan which shows the effects of change in working life during the present century.

This is just a small selection from our junior stock. If the books you require are not immediately available, please ask at the enquiry desk.

There is no charge for requests for junior books.

Public skating 7 days a week.

Sessions include •

Family & Friends

•

Cool Kids Club

•

Disco

•

Classic Skate

Group Discounts available for 25+ persons. Facilities for people with disabilities.

Please telephone for times and prices.

-

-

-

family

fish

* restaurants f,

& take-aways

o 4,,wm,~ LINK

FEED THE FAMILY WITH OUR APRIL SPECIAL

Whitehill Way, Westlea Swindon, Wilts

Cod & Chips for 2 Adults Sausage or Fish Cake & Chips for 2 Children All for only £4.99.

W CENTRE Tel: (0793) 871212

(Additional childrens meals in this promotion 50p)

Recreation Services

(One coupon per person)

L

Open Monday Saturday 11 .3Oam 2pm 4.30pm- 11pm NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 12noon 6pm Car Park A West Swindon Centre

K-

BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN

_J

Telephone Orders Welcome 870455 -

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTS

New at Link Arts Arts Coordinator Clarry Bean welcomes you to the Spring season of events Details of the events listed below and lots more taking place across the Borough are given in the new Thamesdown Arts Events bro-chure - pick one up at Link Centre today!

Films This month we are screening two excellent films: Uranus, starring Gerard Depardieu (Green Card, Cyrano de Bergerac) as a former circus strongman who becomes the scapegoat of vicious small-town intrigue (Thursday 9 April), and Edward II, Derek Jarman's powerful adaptation of the classic play, updated and made relevant to our own times (Thursday 23 April).

Music Eight-piece band Sax Appeal (Friday 3 April) mix driving swing, haunting ballads and danceable latin/funk to create enjoyable and enthusiastic '90's style jazz.

The unique sound of the The Guitar Orchestra (Friday 10 April) is created by five guitarists and two percussionists, and is an enthralling meeting of rock, classical and pop styles. If you like guitar music, you'll love this band.

More jazz, this time jump/jive on Saturday 25 April, from six-piece band One jump Ahead. Come along and show off your jitterbug!

Comedy New comedy this month features Jim Tavaré, deadpan comic and musician extraordinaire, accompanied by Bassie (his faithful double bass). His styleof comedy has led to him being compared to Eric Morecombe and Tommy Cooper. Come along and discover for yourself just how funny he is (Friday 24 April).

Local theatre company Head to Toe present a comic farce entitled Can Ya Not Please! (Monday 13 April to Thursday 16 April). Tickets are available in advance direct from the company (tel: 852874).

Coming Soon For fans of Irish music we are proud to present, on Friday 1 May, the outstanding guitar and harp duo Maire Ni Chathasaigh and Chris Newman. We promise you a spellbinding evening of mainly traditional Irish music.

BARN DANCE AT

THE DANCE HOUSE Saturday 13 May 8pm Ellendune Centre, Wroughton

LATE NIGHT BAND Tickets: £4.75, Conc. £3.50, Under 12s £1, Send cheque & SAE to The Dance Hous131 Goddard Ave, Swindon SN1 4HX

Lisa Clarke from Shaw will be reviewing new films at the MGM for The Link and starts off with this year's blockbuster

-a -k Just in time for the Easter break (10 kins), Peter must return to NeverApril), comes Hook, Steven land to rescue them with the help of Spielberg's adaption of J.M. Barrie's Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts) and the Lost Boys. Wendy stageplay Peter Darling (Maggie Pan. Smith) adds a new Spielberg, the wrinkle to the Pan fabulously suclore: she's now 90, cessful director but is captivated as of the all-time ever by Peter. box office hit, The extravagant E.T., guides a sets, designed by topflight cast inJohn Napier (Cats, cluding Dustin Les Miserables, Hoffman, Robin Miss Saigon) and Williams, Julia Norman Garwood Roberts, Bob (Glory, Brazil), Hoskins and along with the acMaggie Smith. tion-packed scenes, Both Hoffman should make good and Williams entertainment for opted to forego both youngand old. part of their starDustin Hoffman as Hook Currently showstudded salaries for a percentage of the ticket sales. ing is Fried Green Tomatoes at the The Hospital for Sick Children at Whistle Stop Cafe, a sweet and deliGreat Ormond Street in London, a ciously funny yarn about friendship.

Whilst getting to know each other benefactor of Barrie's work, also will receive a share of the film's profits. in visits to a nursing home, Evelyn Hook tells the story of Peter Pan Couch (Kathy Bates), in the throws (Robin Williams) at 40, who has for- of a mid-life crisis, finds refuge in gotten the world of imagination and the enthralling stories of Idgie and Neverland. He's become the ulti- Ruth, told by octogenarian Ninny mate yuppie,a graduate of the BCCI Threadgoode (Jessica Tandy). school of business, leading the Lost United by tragedy, Idgie (Mary Executives rather than the Lost Boys. Stuart Masterson) and Ruth (MaryHe has everything - the toys, the job, Louise Parker), run the Whistle Stop the power - except, he's forgotten Cafe, a railside eatery serving auhow to relate to his family and the thentic Southern staples.

Like the best of stories, it connects child within himself.

When his children are kidnapped experiences we all share. If you

by Hook (Dustin Hoffman) and his cried when watching the Colour right-hand pirate, Smee (Bob Hos- Purple, be sure to bring a hankie!

13

PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar.

Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 430105 or 514055 (24hrs)

0(3c)kyfl , -,)

CINEMAS Saturday morning film shows at the MGM Cinema in April 4th April The original Super Spiel burg animation

AMERICAN TALE 11th April John Travolta and Olivia Newton John in

GREASE

Morrison & Masters

18th April Going home

Celebrate with us 10 years as West Swindon's only Solicitors 10% Discount* off our fees for conveyancing from the Property & Commercial Department Town Square, West Swindon Centre Westlea, Swindon Telephone: (0793) 870055 Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 526601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602 *Excluding V.A.T. and Disbursement.

Applies to all instructions received by 31/5/92 on product of this advertisement

E.T. The Extra Terrestrial 25th April The superstars of the supernatural are back

GHOSTBUSTERS II MGM Multiplex Shaw Ridge, West Swindon Price of admission: £1.50

RECREATION

14 • GET FIT, STAY FIT • GET FiT, STAY FIT.

NOW'S THE TIME TO GET FIT -4

-4

Schools team action

Climbing for Kids

There was non-stop action at the Link Centre as children from eight West Swindon primary schools took part in an indoor five a side football and (a -4 netball competition on 7 March.

-C All the teams played each other in quick five minute matches which were played without a break for three hours. Parents, staff and children provided lots of noise to encourage the players on.

M The results: 1 -4

ru 4-

444(4

Football Netball I Shaw Ridge I Toothifi 2 Freshbrook 2 Westlea 3 Oliver Tomkins 3 Oliver Tomldns Brook Field Brook Field 4 Windmill Hill 4 Windmill Hill 5 Tregoze 5 Toothill Freshbrook 6 Westlea 7 Shaw Ridge 7 Tregoze The winning teams. Toothlll School netballers, left to right, Samantha Hogan, Nicola King, May Woolford, Kerry Jones, Gemma Murphy, Kerry Powell, Amanda Van Stein, Cheryl Guildford. Shaw Ridge footballers Simon Blythin, Jonathan Dart, Michael Perks, Richard Blankley, Paul Hancox, Jonathan Mills, Christopher Blythin

BY DESIGN LTD

Tuesdays , 7.30pm - 8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning Warm Up Aerobics Stretch Floorwork, Cool Down. Suitable for Intermediates. £2.50 The Gym, Greendown School Uj

Give the children a challenge, let them try something new!

A short introductory climbing course is being organised for children aged 10 and upwards at the Link Centre.

All equipment will be supplied, including ropes, harnesses and sticky boots and tuition will be provided by a professional climbing instructor.

The four week course, which will start after Easter on a Monday for one and half hours from 4pm, is being organised by parents and run by the Link Centre. The cost is £16.

There are six places available on a first come first served basis.

If you'd like your child to learn climbing skills, gain moreconfidence and greater teamwork abilities, this course could be for him/her.

Telephone Roger Ogle on 872282 to reserve a place.

C)

Wednesdays 7.30pm-8.30pm Absolute Beginners ru

with Lee

'Wet and Wild' at Easter -4

Designed for those people who , have not exercised for some time and need agentle re-introduction. Suitable for men and women of Ui all ages and abilities. £2.50 The Gym Greendown School 31

Sundays 7.30pm-8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee . Total Body Conditioning.

Warm up, Aerobics, Stretch, Cool down.

Suitable for Intermediates. lug The Gym, Greendown School Everyone Welcome. £2.50 El

Ui

5 I-

-C U)44-

4.-

Ui

OF MARCH

Bodes By Design Ltd. is sponsored by

PERFORMANCE SHOES

Swindon's leading supplier of sports footwear

TEL: 0488 - 684928 OR 0831 - 098273 FOR DETAILS

Wno •1W AVIS'LW 130•lb

.

-5 FREE IRAFFLE AT THE END 4-

U

trl vant'

,'

ON ALL ITEMS

NO MEMBERSHIP JUST PAY ON THE DAY

-C I

Spring Courses

For full details of Cambridge Health Plan, call in at the Community Suite, Link Centre, Tuesday 7pm - 9pm or contact I Ann on 825808 Heal or Peggy on 790573

,

Personal Training for Individuals & Corporate Clients a speciality Uj

Lose weight, feel fit, look great.

westslede Sports :

Get Wet 'n' Wild during the Easter Hols! Each school holidayLinkCentre pool runs a fun time session for children over 8 years.

Take alongyour own masks, snorkels and flippers and they'll add some floats and music to make this an exciting 'wet 'n' wild' session for you and your friends.

Monday 13 April -Friday 17 April (excluding Wednesday) and Tuesday 21 April - Friday 24 April (excluding Wednesday).

Times: lOam - 11am

Saw YLLAGE

Show Village Centre,Shaw (between JCR PAW & Show Church) • Tel: 875712 Opening Times: T(aIHLL Mon, Tues, Fri lOam - 6pm Wed lOom - 2pm • Sot 9.30cm - 5.30pm LATE NIGHT OPENING Thurs 11 .30cm -8.30pm

April is the month to enroll on one of the Link Centre's many and varied activity courses.

Choose from skating, cricket, yoga, swimming, canoeing, basketball, trampolining and much more.

You should have received theSpring '92 courses and activities brochure with another publication. If you didn't, call 871212 and 'Spring into Shape for Summer'!

Application forms and further details are available fromLinkCentre main reception now. Application forms may be submitted during the period: 24 March -6 April for April /June courses. In person, bookings may be made over the counter from 11 April.

Link Centre & Delta Tennis Centre Bank Holiday Easter Monday, 20 April, Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre will both close at 6pm.

New Prices

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING 871793

Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre increased prices from Monday 30 March. Details from reception.

Easter Activities West Swindon Focus on Under 5s

Free Easter Play Workshop Tuesday 7 April, 10am - 12 noon Community Suite, Link Centre Arts & crafts, making Easter baskets, biscuits painting and lots more

Look out for the Octobus As usual the bus will turn up unThis Easter there will be more Mobile Play sessions withtheOctobus announced, so keep your eyes open!

These play sessions are open to at play sites in Toothill, Freshbrook all children, but under-5s must be and Grange Park.

The double-decker play bus will accompanied.

Adults will be welcomed too! visit play areas or similar sites with For further details contact Paul at a variety of activities and play equipment - including an earthbalt, para- the Play Service on 693787 ex 150, chute and lots of games and arts or Margot or Tim at the Octobus Project on 728862. and crafts - on three dates.

Football famine predicted West Swindon youngsters might not be able to play organised football in a few years time because of a lack of pitches.

Ron Sproule from Shaw, who set up the West Side United youth team last year, thinks there won't be enough pitches as local clubs expand to cater for different age groups.

He said, "We're going to start a second team next year and West Swindon FC will be fielding three,

so there will be greater demand for pitches at Greendown School where we play at present. We want to provide youngsters the chance to play for a team whatever their age group, but there won't be the facilities unless more land is found for playing fields."

He said that the cost of pitches at Lydiard Park is too high for youth clubs and it might be necessary for his club to try to rent farm land close-by.

Summer school confusion

Take to the road

The PASS Soccer School organisation has been visiting local primary schools with information about a summer soccer camp to be held at Greendown School from 27 to 31 July.

We have been asked to point out that PASS do not have a booking at the Greendown.

Greendown School are organising a sunirnercamp with a variety of sports during that week and are takingbooldngs fromparents. For more information about booking a place, see last month's Link magazine or telephone Steve O'Sullivan on 874224.

The Great Thamesdown Bike Ride takes place on Sunday 7 June in aid of Age Concern Thamesdown.

Over 300 riders are expected to join the ride which starts at 930am from Highworth.

There are two circular routes of 35 and 50 miles through pleasant countryside around Kelmscott, Bibuty and Southmp.

Last year the event, sponsored by BT, raised £5,000. Take to your pedals and help them raise more. Details and entry forms are available from the Great Thamesdown Bike Ride, Health Hydro, Milton Road, Swindon. Tel: 693787.

IBM AS/400 PS/2 OS/2 Experienced IT Manager offers independent project management and consultancy services in: • • • • •

Package Implementation Systems Development Hardware And Operating System Upgrades Systems Security Disaster Recovery Planning

15 HOOVER

• HOTPOINT

J. PHILLIPS SERVICING Repairs to most makes of Washing Machines, Dryers, Dishwashers and Microwaves 10% discount for Senior Citizens Special offer: leak & safety test for microwaves - only £10

Day Tel: 526656 s7ee

A.E. PAVING Patios, Crazy Paving, Block Paving, Driveways, Garden Walls, Turfing, Fencing No job too small

Telephone: 876066

ace m mat

SOFT WATER CENTRE WOOTON BASSETT Come and see our full range of Water Softeners including the AQUADIAL, DOMEXTRA, EURO, OAKLANDS, PERMUTIT Also Available: Granular, Tablet, P.V.D. Salt All at Unit 4, Oaklands Enterprise Estate, Braydon, Nr. Wootton Bassett. Open Saturdays ONLY 9.30am - 4pm. OR Ring Swindon 853156 for further information or appointment.

S I --,p Reabo"'k Anew DYNAMIC exercise program.

Working every major muscle in the lower body whilst helping to condition the upper body.

It not only SHAPES, TIGI-ITENS and DEFINES MUSCLES, it burns the maximum amount of fat.

Freshbrook Primary School

Monday Birches Hall 7.30 Thursday Willows Hall 7.15 All Classes ... £2.50 ALL FHNESS LEVELS WELCOME CLASSES LIMITED TO 20

TELEPIIOPIE 0865 864182 IF YOU WISH TO RESERVE A STEP

SK Consultancy Services Tel: 783300 25 Shrivenham Hundred Business Park, Swindon

Instructor Bernadette Cowap YMCA, RSA and Reebok Step Trained

AT CHURCH THIS EASTER

16

RESIDENTIAL LETTING AGENTS West Swindon properties now required

Edgington b Bishop a PROPERTY MANAGERS EST. 1882, (opposite Swindon Town Hall). Tel: 536552

MRT SECRETARIAL WORD PROCESSING Letters, CV's, Mailshots, Manuscripts and Reports All work produced on a Hewlett Packard Laser Printer

For a fast professional secretarial service, phone Maureen on 881733 (West Swindon).

THE VALET SERVICE FOR YOUR HOME

DECORATING INSIDE OR OUT SPECIAL RATES FOR PENSIONERS

Call Decor Valet for a Free Estimate SWINDON 824372 No job too small. Personal service

DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Vans • Lutons • Estates Cars • Mini Bus 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret Swindon

Tel: 822193 Open Daily 9am - 6 pm Sundays 9am - 1 p

ERMIN WINDOWS

For conservatories and windows in uPVC or aluminium with hardwood surround

Call Brian Smith SWINDON 824419 87a Ermin Street, Stratton St. Margaret Swindon.

A Fair Trial?

Helen Lawrence of Westlea reports on a suspect carriage of justice It was certainly unusual for the court sus on oath. "By the Living God, are to hear a case at night, but the proper you the Son of God?" Jesus had to procedures were followed. ByLaw, answer. His answer condemned a defendant can only be convicted him. "I am." Caiphas was jubilant. on the evidence of two witnesses. "You heard him!" It was blasphemy Witnesses were there in plenty - but to call yourself God. their stories didn't tally and their Unless, of course,Jesus really was evidence was thrown out. In all God. this, the prisoner kept silence.

Three days later after a Roman Many people think the trial of crucifixion and burial in a sealed, Jesus Christ was rigged. It wasn't. guarded tomb, Jesus met his friends In spite of their desperation to get and ate fish before their astonished this man condemned and executed, eyes. A few years later, St Paul the Jewish Sanhedrin kept to the wrote "He was shown with great rules. power to be the son of God being Eventually Judge Caiphas putJe- raised from death."

Easter Services St Peter's Roman Catholic Church Carmnb ridge Road, Westlea Thursday 16 April, Maundy Thursday 730pm Mass of the Lord's Supper Friday 17 April, Good Friday 3.00pm Solemn Liturgy 600pm First Mass of Easter Saturday 18 April 1000pm Solemn Mass Sunday 19 April, Easter Sunday 6.00pm Solemn Mass Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road, Freshb rook Friday 17 April, Good Friday Communion Service 1000am Sunday 19 April, Easter Sunday 1000am Family Worship 630pm Easter Praise United Churches Toothill Church; St Mary's Church, Lydiard Tregoze (in Lydiard Park), All Saint's Church, Lydiard Millicent; Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre; Westlea Church, Westlea School Sunday 12 April, Palm Sunday 1030am Family Communion at St Mary's Church 630pm Evening Worship at St Mary's Church Monday 13 April 730pm United Service at Toothill Church Tuesday 14 April 8.00pm United Communion at Holy Trinity Church Thursday 16 April, Maundy Thursday 7.30pm United Communion at St Mary's Church, followed by Prayer Vigil at 8.30pm Friday 17 April, Good Friday 10.30am Family Service at St Mary's Church Family Service at Toothill Church 10.45am 12 noon United 3-hour Service at All Saint's Church Sunday 19 April, Easter Sunday 530am Sunrise Service at St Mary's Church 800am Communion at All Saint's Church 1030am Family Service & Communion at Holy Trinity Church 1030am Family Communion at St Mary's Church 1030am Family Communion at All Saint's Church 1045am Family Communion at Westlea Church 1045am Family Communion at Toothill Church 6.30pm Communion at St Mary's Church 6.30pm Easter Praise at Toothill Church 6.30pm Evening Worship at Holy Trinity Church

If you've got a West Swindon story, give The Link magazine a call on 872282

NEWS & VIEWS Amnesty group looks for youth support A group of West Swindon teenagers have set up a youth branch of Amnesty International and would like to meet other young people concerned about the plight of prisoners of conscience around the world.

Four students from Greendown School and two from Bradon Forest School have been meeting for three months to discuss the development of the group and learn more about people in prison in other countries.

At Christmas they sent cards to twenty prisoners in countries as diverse as Tibet, Sweden, China and Egypt.

They'vegiven themselves a name -SAGGY-SwindonAmnestyGroup

for Green Young People, as they are also concerned with environmental issues as well a political prisoners.

Group organiser Amy Walker said she and friend Hailey Nardoni had been encouraged by Swindon members of Amnesty to set up a youth committee.

"The group is concerned about human rights and wants to find out more about the conditions of political prisoners," said Amy. "We also want to do something to help."

SAGGY meets at Greendown on the2nd &4thThursdayofthemonth, 7.30pmto 9.30pm and will welcome more young people. For more information, call Amy Walker on 881014.

Hannah's art

Teachers work together A unique gathering of teachers took place at Greendown School on 26 March.

Teachers from Bradon Forest, Greendown and Ridgeway secondary schools spent a day with colleagues from all the primary schools feeding them, to consider what children are learning at primary school and to come closer to a common understandingof the levels required by the National Curriculum in Maths, Science and English.

The meeting, which was the first of its kind in Wiltshire, aimed to make secondary school teachers more aware of the standard of chil dren's attainment when they move from primary to secondary education.

A figure study by Hannah Bexon of Yarmouth Close, Toothill was featured in an exhibition of artwork by Ridgeway School students at Wroughton Library during March.

The work was done at the Oxenwood field study centre near Hungerford last year and will featureinHannah's submission for her art GCSE. Hannah hopes to start a BTec course leading toa nationaldiploma in design at Chippenham Technical College in September.

New? There's a weekly coffee morning for anybody who is 'new' either to the area or new to parenthood.

In fact, anybody who wants information about local facilities, groups or services is welcome, even if you've lived in West Swindon for years.

Coffee is served by local community worker Pam Pixton on Tuesdays, lOam to 12 noon in the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food TakeAway Menu

17

SWINDON SOFT WATER CENTRE Makes water softening simple No. 1 Best selling water softener in the UK

INETI

The worlds most advanced

fully automatic non-electric meter-controlled system

Shott oom at 260 Ferndale Road, Swindon Ca BRIAN COX on SWINDON 527172

HANDMADE FIREPLACES IN BRICK OR STONE Profesionally built to your exact requirements.

Free design service.

Tel: Swindon 535291 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A, '? '.• •J S W SI SI SI S.' S.' '.1 .I '.1 '.1 5.' 5.' 51 '.1 5.' 51 '.1 '.1 '.1 .I SI .? 51 '.1'.1 '1 '.1

Raymond Stansfield DECORATOR with over 30 years experience.

Craftsman in Paint and Decor SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes. r.

Telephone: (0793) 874299

II.) 5? 515/51 5? 5? ./ 515/5151 SI 51 '.1 5? 5/5/ 5? 5, 5) %0 11 51 5151'I SI 515151 %1 %)

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAI

(ME CRETE sommm",007

DRIVEWAYS * Pattern stamped concrete in natural' stone colours for paths, patios & driveways * Wide range of patterns and colours available

Tel: 487055 6 - 1130am Sunday Closed all day Monday 5 - 11.30pm Tuesday Wednesday 12- 1.45pm 5 - 1130pm Thursday 12- 145pm 5 - 1130pm Friday 12 - 145pm 5 - 1200am Saturday 12 - 200pm 5 - 1200am

OPEN ALL BANK HOUDAYS (MONDAY)

Flagstone pattern being imprinted into fresh concrete

We lay it, you'll love it 'Phone for FREE colour brochure NOW 0793 - 851250 days

Presscrete

0793 - 855303 eves

4b ern Pa'' concrete with a difference!

-

NEWS & VIEWS

18

KANFIT KITCHENS '?r Quality Drawer & Door Replacement Ser. ice Free No Obligation Survey * Quality British Kitchens * Free Estimates * See us at West Swindon Centre, every Saturday

TEL: 813766/ 870975

194M

DIY for the 'don't know hows' If that dodgy door is driving you mad and you want to 'do-it-yourself butdon't know how to, pickup the phone and enroll onLowerShaw Farm's Basic Building Skills course on 8-10 May. All you ever wanted to know about DII but were afraid to ask will be revealed during the weekend with expert guidance and plenty of practical work. For further details phone 771080.

Accountancy & Financial Services

THE COMPLETE LOCAL ACCOUNTS SERVICE INCOME & CORPORATION TAX V BUSINESS PLANS V NOMINAL LEDGER WAGES & P.A.Y.E BUDGETING V SALES/PURCHASE LEDGER & CASH FORECASTING

91 ANNUAL & MONTHLY ACCOUNTS

FOR A PROFESSIONAL & CONFIDENTIAL SERVICE CALL

(0793) 878680 FAX NO. (0793) 886323 RAMLEAZE HOUSE, SHAW VILLAGE CENTRE, SWINDON

WHOEVER You VOTE FOR YOU'LL ALWAYS WIN WITH

P izzara Great Pizzas and Genuine Indian Curries available for delivery!

Chicken Tikka Masala Chicken Curry (medium) Beef Kurma (mild) Beef Madras (hot) Mixed Vegetable Curry £5.00 each • Price includes Rice!

P1 ZZARAMA

Retirement in West Swindon Reflections from Tom Wilson from Toothill

Living on a pension in West Swindon, where there is a cosmopolitan population, some of the retired folks miss their long time neighbours and find life a bit boring, depending on their physical condition. I found voluntary work good outlet, it gets you out to meet people. Others I know have taken up hobbies and are attending painting classes, some writing their memoirs for their grandchildren. These don't take much physical effort, but keeps the mind occupied.

It could be a help if some of the grassy sites, taken up as children's playgrounds could also be used by the elderly. At present these sites are little used as parents are wary of allowing their children to use these facilities. Perhaps if a shelter with seating was available it would help in allowing the elderly to sit and watch children at play and relax.

There are far too few seats, where folk can sit and rest while out walking along the footpaths through the shrubbery and grass areas.

I considermyself fortunate inhaving accommodation in a housing association flat. It gives me a feeling of independence, rather than living in sheltered accommodation with a warden in attendance, having seen most of the accommodation available to retired persons while delivering Meals on Wheels. This is only my personal view.

Budgeting on a pension is difficult as prices keep rising, while the pension stays behind these on the so called cost of living increase. Some are fortunate in having a company pension as well, other especially those who were known as tradesmen, painters, joiners etc. who couldn't afford a private pension scheme on their wages and bring up a family, now have to make do on their pension allowance.

However by keeping a sense of humour and ignoring the growing aches and pains of the ageing process, to me West Swindon is a nicely laid out area to live in, with community amenities available to all.

Editor: Comments from other readers will be welcome

Help on offer A group of business women are look- Sushma. "Some of the members ingforelderlyand housebound peo- will befriend housebound people ple for whom they can provide and perhaps take them out on trips some help. if they'd like to go out."

Sushma Patel of the Swindon She added that the Club would Business Women's Breakfast Club continue its fund raising projects said the members were interested in but was also looking for a longer making long term contact with peo- term activities. ple who might need some practical Elderly readers or relatives of peohelp, or need social contact in the ple who might benefit from some home. help from the business women "We can take on jobs like garden- should contact Sushma Patel on ing, decorating and shopping for 870226 during the day or Dianne people who find it difficult," said Edgar on 0666 8253.

LETTING YOUR PROPERTY? We require in West S offerin ne

ahty, housesØts d are 1*ent1y discount on all

on conct: PETER LONG & PARTNER Property Managemeni 16 :Ii eet

FREE TO YOUR DOOR - WHY PAY MORE?

Tel: AS 7"At 43 At At

el: (0225) 447040 r

NEWS & VIEWS Curry to your door ThePizzarama takeaway and home delivery service atShaw is now serving delicious curries.

Proprietor Mike Grey from Grange Park brought in five dishes

to cater for all tastes after many requests. There's been an excellent response to the introduction of curries alongside our pizzas," he said.

To have one delivered tonight, telephone Pizzarama on 874844.

Sculpture rhyme

19

sugaring Hair removal by the Zcthra method.

Viscr Us FOR THE DRESS OF YouR DREAMS

It's not electrolysis or waxing and no creams are used.

trpate bribe

';

To find out more about this unique beauty treatment phonejoanne on Swindon

A new public sculpture is in the making and will soon join West Swindon's five other works.

The work on the theme of the nursery rhyme Hey-diddle-diddle is being created by Sheffield based sculptor Vega Bermejo. She is being sponsored by Clarke Homes who are currently building houses in the Prinnels area of Shaw.

Vega has been provided with a workshop on thebuilding site and is workingona3Yztonblockofportland stone. She is skilfully chipping away at a cat, cow, little dog, a dish, a spoon and a moon (pictured right).

The ten week commission, the first arts sponsorship by Clarke Homes, will be unveiled in May and will be displayed on site. A more perma-

nent location will be found by Thamesdown Council's arts and recreation department when all the houses have been sold.

Nexus to be put right again Freshbrook Village Centre's sculpture Nexus has been in a sorry state since vandals moved one of the huge blocks of stone over six months ago.

The work has been surrounded by a tall security fence which has trapped large amounts of litter and has given the village centre a desolate feeling over the winter months.

Workonliftingthedisplaced stone into position and making the mount-

ings of the whole sculpture stronger will take place in early April.

Nexus was created by Japanese sculptor Hideo Furuta in 1986and is made up of several large interlocking blocks which appear to be suspended in air. The stone used is the same as those used for Stonehenge.

Hideo worked at the village centre for four months to create Nexus which represents the coming together of a community.

613484.

TOP DESIGNER DRESSES &

I am also a qualified

ACCESSORIES ID BUY OR HIRE

beauty therapist (will do home visits

anywhere.

Burwui. BALLGOWNS FOR HIRE FOR FRIENDLY, PERSONAL Zahra

mr

ATTENTION, RING TRACY ON SWINDON 727763

Crystal Conservatories The Complete Conservatory Service No Hidden Extras.

Included in price of all buildings: insulated floor, blinds, overhead fan and security light

For a personal service without match, telephone Swindon (0793) 496179/512612

FREE DAILY

West Swindon's White Horse made its brief annual appearance on Whitehill Way during March

DELIVERIES IN WEST SWINDON

HOTLINE Š 613391 (24 hour answering service)

New Job. New Pension.

So what happens to your old one?

Good question.

Is it being properly managed to become really substantial?

Is it keeping pace with inflation and what's it actually worth right now?

To find out more, talk to us. Today.

Our advice is free, strictly confidential and totally without obligation.

Call Ian Tanner on (0793) 531293 or (eves) 770356 Abbey life, Ground Flour, Terminal 1 Wt, Stone Hill Green, Wedea, Swindon

Plus full range of LPG appliances - cookers, fires, lights, cabinet heaters Visit Our Showroom Swindon Calor Gas Centre Bridge End Road, Swindon Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12 noon

iScjsLi"nk

20

NEWS & VIEWS Ian runs for National Eczema Society

jl~focrg Beauty Tratments & Aromatherapy Waxing Whole leg £10.50 Half leg inc. knees £ 6.00 Underarms £ 3.00 Bikini Line £ 4.00 Electrolysis 20 mins £ 4.25 Free consultation for skin care analysis Connie Jeapes IHEC, ITEC Tel: 0793 772123 -

(5 minute drive from Link Centre)

Ian Bell, of Grange Park, a member of Swindon Roadrunners, will be competing in the Reading Half Marathon on 26 April in aid of the National Eczema Society.

Ian has been a member of the Roadn.mners for 3 years and raises money forcharityon at least one run per year. Last year he raised over £300 for various charities.

The Reading race will be Ian's sixth half marathon and currently his best time for the distance is I hour 32 minutes. He hopes to better this time at Reading.

Ian says he finds the distance a

Complete Secretarial Services Personal assistant to the small • Letters • Tele-Marketing • Reports • Mail Shots • Manuscripts • Reservations

business • Theses • Invoicing • Faxing

'b 0793 871243 (West Swindon) -

DAVID KEEN HIGH CLASS PAINTER OVER 12 YEARS EXPERIENCE FREE ESTIMATES

•

FULL INSURANCE COVER

TEL:

872626

challenge and the incentive of raising money for charity helps to keep him going and complete the course.

One person in ten has eczema at sometime in their life. The NES provides practical information needed to manage eczema effectively.

If you would like to sponsor Ian you can contact him on 874771.

Baby equip sale The West Swindon branch of the National Childbirth Trust are holding their bi-annual baby equipment sale at the Link Centre on 16 May. More details will be given in May Link magazine.

To register sales callSue Goddard 641292 or Lorna Glynne-Jones

530688

Charity needs help The Save the Children Fund is desperate for collectors during its appeal week at the end of April.

The Fund is making a house collection from 26 April to 2 May and would like to hear fromreaders who can knock on doors for them.

Last year the amount collected across the whole of Swindon was £3,400. With so many demands on their resources, Save the Children desperately needs to raise more money. If you can help, telephone Ann Sayers on 882070.

To all Women in West Swindon Delay spending on your spring wardrobe until after 3Apr11 says Kerrie Stone

Pause is holding a Colour Coding Morning on Friday 3 April. Elizabeth Wood will be demonstrating how to choose the best colours to suit you according to your skin and hair tones, both in clothes and cosmetics. This is sure to bean informative and interesting morning, so why not come along and meet some new faces? There will be a charge of £1 which includes childcare and refreshments. We meet in the large meeting room in the Community Suite at the Link Centre at lOam. For those people who don't know about Pause', we are a group of women who hold meetings every week in term time. We have speakers on general women's interests and local outings. The sessions are open to all women who are at home during the day and would like to make some new friends. We also have a free ushe so you can relax for an hour or two without worrying about the children! Our last session before Easter is a Coffee Morning on 10 April and everyone is welcome. Watch for posters on our summer programme. If you would like more information phone Allyson on 538819 or Kerrie on 875820.

40 ,

STEP INTO A NEW LIFESTYLE

• CURTAIN

CALL TRAVEL London Theatre Excursions The Grand Hotel (NEW from Broadway, winner of S Tony Awards) Limited season, Saturday 8 August £31.00 Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat 25 August £38.50 Aspects of Love: Saturday matinee, 26 September £38.50 -

• • • •

Selection of modern and traditional styles.

Built by expert craftsmen.

Solid aluminium/timber frames.

Specially toughened safety glass.

DON'T MISS THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL OFFER The World of Wessex Hawksworth, Swindon Telephone: 0793541611 FOR DETAILS OF SPECIAL WESSEX OFFER

WESSEX CONSERVATORIES No Bette, Quality, No Better Workmanship

Booking now for Autumn programme Phantom, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon

Savvas Cabaret Club 20 June 15 November

Little and Large £27.00 Roy Chubby Brown £21.00 bar snacks only 25 November Adonis ladies only £35.00 4, 5, 11, 12 December Freddie Star £35.50 19, 20 December Jim Davison £35.50 Prices include return coach, admission, 3 course dinner and full supporting show (except when otherwise adve rtised) -

For reservations and further details, please ring Curtain Call Travel on 740817

21

NEWS &VIEWS

Easter Fayre Tregoze Primary School, Hay Lane, Grange Park Saturday 4 April, 2pm - 5pm Easter Bonnet competition for girls, Hat design competition for boys, cake stall, tombola, raffles, many other competitions including 'whack the rat' . Light refreshments available A celebrity will officially open the Fayre Organised by Friends of Tregoze School

Movement on low priority pedestrian route

ARTEX & COVING SPECIALISTS * PERMANENT DISCOUNT FOR OAPs * SAME DAY REPAIR SERVICE * INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN * INTERIOR & EXTERIOR * FULLY INSURED * GUARANTEED * DESIGNS TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS * PAINTING & DECORATING

STEVE GILES SWINDON 0793 -872130

PB PLUMBING SERVICES

Derek Creber showing what people who work at Blagrove have to risk

A long running campaign to get a safe pedestrian route to the Blagrove Business Park is a little closer to resolution.

Another 192 name petition from workers at the park was submitted to Thamesdown Council in March and organiser Derek Creber from FleetwoodCourt,Freshbmokis hoping that a commitment made by the council in 1989 to build a footpath will finally be carried out.

Derek has been trying to persuade Thamesdownto take action foryears and followinga first petitionin early 1989 received a letter from the Director of Environmental Services agreeing that the need for a pedestrian mute to Blagrove had longbeen recognised and that it would be provided.

However nothing happened and Derek, concerned about the safety of people living in Freshbrook and

walking to work at Blagrove, organised a second petition. 'There is a designated mute for pedestrians between Godolphin Close and Windmill Hill School and dozens of people tramp through the mud and risk their lives crossing Great Western Way daily.

"The recent roadworks have made things even worse and many walkers have taken to theircars and added to the traffic congestion. Pedestrians need a decent, clean and safe route to get to and from work."

Local councillors Simon Cordon and Bob Pixton have been helping Derek in his campaign to get some action. Coun. Pixton said, "Thamesdown Council agreed that it should build a footpath and a crossing point at a meeting on 19 March. However this will only happen when the council has some money from the sale of assets to meet the £40,000 cost."

Cambridge Health Plan at the Link Centre The Cambridge Health Plan is a total lifestyle programme based on the benefits of long term weight control. It combines exciting new products and services with a choice of nutritionally balanced diet and weight maintenance programmes.

Trimmer - The Diet to fit Everybody. Providing from 750 calories each day it offers a wide range of meal replacement options including drinks, bars and muesli, prices ranging froms5pto9op per serving.

Local hairdresser Sandra from Headlines says, "having lost 13lbs in 3 weeks on Trimmer I can't speak highly enough of it. I feel so well on it and I find it easy to use as I don't

feel hungry, it's great".

Cambridge Diet. The original diet from Cambridge Nutrition Ltd, the world's leading Very Low Calorie Diet giving 100% total nutrition in 405 calories, ideal for those people with more weight to lose. For the safest, fastest and most effective weight loss, this is the one to go for.

For more information on weight loss and weight control plus sample tastings,call attheCommunity Suite, Link Centre on Tuesdays, 7pm to 9pm and speak to Peggy or Ann. There's a special introductory offer of £1 off your week's diet supply.

If unable to attend please contact Ann on 825808 or Peggy on 790573

Wood I FencJng, HIS:

• Boilers Serviced • Pump Fitting Service • Water Softeners Fitted • Washing Machines and ' Dishwashers Installed

t

Tel: (0793) 642995

flO.f

a complete landscaping service including * patios * walling * fencing gates * trellis work * turf-laying Free delivery of * fence panels & posts * supply only or supply and fit

K. Wood Fencing Tel: (0793) 848260 Eves: 692658

II

911"c9 €XEW

NOW AVAILABLE T_A_,Tk_EAwAy THE SUPERB AUTHENTIC CUISINE OF THE CHINESE EXPERIENCE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 5.30PM - 10PM ADVANCE ORDERS ADVISED, ESPECIALLY AT WEEKENDS

MEAD WAY, SPARCELLS, WEST SWINDON TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME

© 877888

22

Letters to The Link Who is the reluctant candidate then?

GE

\

From Edward and Stephanie Glennie, Woodchester, Westlea

GARDEN / \ CENTRE

Not just a Garden Centre - more a gardeners' paradise where you can buy unusual and hard to find varieties of Fruit Trees, Bedding Plants, Herbaceous Perennials, Geraniums Fuschias, Roses, Hanging Baskets, Trees, Shrubs, Alpines, Heathers and Conifers

and get expert advice from the people who grow them Grange Farm Nurseries Haydon End Lane Entrance off Lady Lane and Westfield Way, Haydon Wick

© Swindon 721221 OPEN DAILY

We have tried to organise a public meeting for Swindon's parliamentary candidates, underan independent chairman, at which the candidates would respond to questions from the floor. Three of the candidates were willing to take part; one was not, for reasons that seemed to

Hay Diet Slimming Counsellor Holistic Health Counsellor Enquiries Welcome Jackie Habgood, 813493

YES

DOUBLE GLAZING CAN BE REPAIRED

uPVC - Aluminium - Hardwood Sealed Units/Locks/Handles Patio Door Rollers etc ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Call

v4fddat &W Double Glazing Repair & Maintenance Specialist

(0367) 241040

,lift Ivy 111112 When you can save a packet at Swindon's Largest Stockist of Used Office Furniture Choose from over: O 100 Filing Cabinets, including 2 drawers O 50 Storage & Filing Cupboards 0 100 Desks, 50 Tables and Hundreds of Chairs!

Whilst stocks last Teak effect 4 draw filing cabinets only £79 + VAT 6' Steel Cupboards £25 + VAT

Whilst stocks last FREE' with this ad A Herman Miller Swivel Chair with every Desk purchased

I LIMITED OFFER 1

Nobody beats us on selection or value for money

Choice Used Office Furniture Business Space Services Unit 22 Cheney Manor Ind. Est. Swindon. Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm; Sat. 9am - 1 pm

0793 521212

Discounts

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link 13 Castle Dora, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ

for Quantity Orders

us to be unsatisfactory. Perhaps he doesn't want to expose himself to questions that his potential constituents choose to ask?

It is too late to do any more for this election. However, it would help for the next one if we knew whether other people too wanted a public

meeting. What do readers of The Link' think?

P.S. We are aware of the meeting organised by the Thamesdown Council of Churches. We understand that this is not a question and answer session, but a forumforeach candidate to make a statement.

Spare a thought for the volunteers

From Mrs C Bell of the Jellytof s Playgroup, Shaw

It grieves me to think that as a mum of a toddler we pay to send our children to playgroup to be able to mix with others, to share, to become independent of their parents and prepare them for school where at last fees are not required.

I am a fundraiser for the playgroup and find it hard asking parents to digdeep once again forsponsoring, selling raffle tickets, etc. We have been trying for a year to raise money for a shed to put our larger

toys in, which get ruined by the weather, and have to be replaced when broken. Fees go on everything, down to the last paint brush with nothing to spare.

So please remember when playgroups ask for your support, it is for future generations to enjoy playgroup.

I would like to thank very much all those traders so far in supporting our forthcoming raffle in May. Thank you.

More about dogs droppings

From N Heavens, Freshbrook

In response to one or two letters in your March issue about dogs and the problems they can cause, Iwould like to raise the following points.

Firstly one of the common arguments thrown up by dog owners is, why should they worry, when litter is always abandoned without concern for others? I personally would answer with another question - do two wrongs make a right? Litter is a nuisance but it can be cleared up with a relatively small risk to anyone's health. Whereas dogs' faeces is not only difficult to dispose of, it is also a health hazard and can remain so for up to 18 months. This means a ban on dogs for the summer months only in some areas would not be effective as the threat of infection would still be present on the ground from the previous winter.

Secondly the point raised by Mr PC Bown with regards to byelaws

somewhat perplexes me. In other regions there are 'Dog Free areas, i.e. parks and beaches. Why then would it be so difficult to establish similar areas in Thamesdown?

I respect the rights of dog owners but believe that the interests, health and safety of people should be put before pets and that they really should show more consideration.

Finally there is a children's play area close to my home and it really does amaze me how many owners stand by while their pet does its 'business' on or around this area.

They seem to be blissfully unaware of what their pet is doing while it is attached to the other end of the lead that they are in fact holding!

I recognise the importance of working dogs and the good that they do, but I really do think it is important that owners should face up to their responsibilities, enforced by the law if necessary.

HILLIER FUNERAL SERVICE LTD. 55 Victoria Road Swindon Tel: 522797

252 Whitworth Road Swindon Tel: 522145

PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24 hour personal service throughout the year A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

High Street Wroughton Swindon SN4 9JY Tel: (0793) 812588

1st Floor, Anglia House 115/118 Commercial Road, Swindon Tel: (0793) 522688

John Wilding at Wroughton and Peter Winton or Helen Raynes at Commercial Road will be pleased to attend to all your Legal needs.

Our Wroughton Office is 10 minutes from West Swindon and offers private carparklng for clients

Buttons Toddler Group New for parents s4th one year olds Monday 2pm to 4pm at the Roughmoor Social Hall, Swinley Drive, Peatmoor.

Call Mandy Miller for details on 875243

Animal Sanctuary annual meeting

New nursery offers day care Roughmoor Farm Nursery School, Swinley Drive, Peatmoor, offers quality day-care for 2 to 5 year olds from 8am to 6pm and pro-school sessions for under 5s. Telephone Mrs Layer on 772099 for details.

Summer Courses

Swindon College at G4reendown Community School We have courses available in: Flower Arranging Assertion Training for Women Carriage Driving for Beginners Psychology for Fun Croquet Get by' Courses in Dutch, Italian, French, Spanish and German plus others too many to mention.

Creche facilities available at day classes.

Please telephone Alexandra Sandell or Janice Puffett on 871413 for furLetter ther details.

Hay Diet success If you have any ideas/thoughts on From Jackie Habgood, what we should offer in Community Hay Diet practitioner Education please ring now, as we Thanks a million for the extra pub- are arranging classes for a Septemlicity about the Hay Diet. It brought ber start! in 33 people a quarter of them slimmers, the rest with health probAn Invitation to become an lems.

Adult Education Tutor So far after 3 sessions one person Share your knowledge, interests has given up her daily painkillers and skills. Recreational, hobby for arthritis, one lost his indigestion, and work-related another girl's migraine and food alcourses training available lergy has gone, someone else has Evening and daytime classes lost her permanently blocked nose 1992-93 Programme now in problem It's astonishing and very preparation rewarding. Thanks again.

Phone 613313 for details The Thamesdown Animal Sanctuary holds its Annual General Meeting Friday 10 April, 730pm, in the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

The Sanctuary provides a rescue and placement service forunwanted and mistreated animals, an annual animal fun day and regular fundraising events. Readers interested in finding out more are invited to attend the meeting where there will a talk on Police Dog Training.

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road

Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist.

Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam

Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone Rev. Peter Grainger on 490498.

Church Office, Tel: 873050

MOBILE MECHANIC

David West P

HEALTH

rrrtlOfler actit &,u onerIn the Alexander Technique .

.

i

--

Bad postural habits are unlearned. A new relaxed co-ordination of head, neck, and back is introduced.

-

WE COME TO YOU *Non-Starts *Servicing .Tuning •M.O.T. Work 'Breakdowns *Electrical Faults 'Clutches fitted

Health Hydro Milton Road, Swindon Tel: 693787 No Garage Prices or Waiting

Monday: 9.15am- 12.15pm Wednesday: 5.30pm 9.15pm Groups also welcome

Please Telephone 876211 ANYTIME

-

-

-

•

,••

HIV/AIDS t4 PLINE Are you concerned?

,Jpez~ , SWINDON PROJECT FOR AIDS COUNSELLING AND EDUCATION Visit your local, friendly, Drop-In Centre which offers: confidential support, information and advice.

Or call us on Swindon (0793) 420620 Helpline: Tuesday/Thursday 7pm 9pm, 24 Hr Answering Service Drop-In: Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 12.00pm 600pm 172 Victoria Road, Swindon -

-

DESPERATE? LONELY? SUICIDAL?

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Washing Machine Repairs • Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin • Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

For Sale Adult Tricycle with 2 child seats. £250 or offers. Tel: 872822 Skipper 12 sailing dingy with many extras. Ideal for the family. £350. Tel: 872822 Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

You don't have to be suicidal to share your problems with us. Phone anytime day or night, or call into 6 Curtis Street, Swindon betweeen 8am & 10pm. the Samaritans Swindon 537373

TITCOMBE

WESTMEAD DRIVE, WESTLEA, SWINDON TEL (0793) 641643

GARAGE LIMITED I

IGNITION, FUEL INJECTION, MISFIRING ..... LET US SOLVE YOUR PROBLEMS WITH OUR DIAGNOSTIC COMPUTER We are THE Diagnostic Specialists 4

0

24 HOUR BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY - CAR AND COMMERCIAL WINTER SERVICING & REPAIRS MOTs WHILE YOU WAIT BOSCH PARTS STOCKISTS

Q. DIAGNOSTIC

& PETROL INJECTION SPECIALISTS

Q

Ott

9 %CC el vileo'* It

0

PARTS & ACCESSORIES SHOP

SPARCELLS SHAW

: ACCIDENT REPAIRS

Westmead mployment Area

)CAR BODY SPRAYING COURTESY CAR WHEN AVAILABLE

Q

WE ARE HERE

EASTLEAZE

ALL ESTIMATES GIVEN FREE GRANGE' PARK

COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

SWifld9lT

.1"

INSURANCE CRASH REPAIRS AUTHORISED REPAIRERS FOR LEADING INSURANCE COMPANIES

0 BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE DISTRIBUTOR