April 2005 Swindon Link

No. 275 April 2005 • Circulation 24,000

and the swindon wide what's on guide

Harry Potter and the great auction

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POTTER

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Top literature i n Swindon

NEW ADDRESS & TELEPHONE FOR LINK

Whether it's a serious novelist, a comedian, politician, poet or a children's writer, some of the nation's top wordsmiths arrive in May for the twelfth Swindon Festival of Literature.

The free programme is now available all over the town and on the web. Now's the time to book tickets for the events in the first two weeks in May. Highlights in our centre pages.

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There's no mystery about the top prize at a

charity auction in aid of the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis on 29 April.

But there will be tension and drama galore as the bids come in to beat the £1,500 already offered by a London book dealer.

Find out how you could get your hands on a unique prize, or another donated item in the auction, on page 2.

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The Link Magazi ne • April 2005

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Signed Potter book on offer to highest bidder Harry Potter author JK Rowling has come forward as a surprise supporter of the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis with a donation which is expected to raise a lot of money at an auction in April.

Manager Jackie Wray wrote to the famed writer not expecting a response. "She was interviewed in the national MS magazine in 2001 and referred to her mother's suffering with MS - sadly she died when she was only 45 years old. I told JK Rowling about the auction and was very surprised to receive a signed book.

"We are very grateful for her support which we are sure will give a huge financial boost to the centre."

Another celebrity whose family has been affected by MS is TV make-over magician Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. He has sent a signed copy of his book 'Design

Rules'tobeauctioned. swing and slide set; It costs over a signed Elton John £30,000 a year to run Greatest Hits CD, the MS Centre at BSS two VIP tickets to House, see a Swindon Cheney ^y ^^1k4 Town game and a Manor, all of which ! f has to be found ^ ^r football signed by through fundraising. the players.

The auction takes Jackie added, "we are also very place on Friday 29 \ grateful to the aucApril at the Hilton tioneer, Swindon Hotel, next to M4 r'n'bband The BullJunction 16.

Jackie Wray with frogs, and the Other items to be the valuable signed book Hilton. All are proauctioned include two nights bed and breakfast in viding their services without Spain; an England baseball cap charge."

Tickets are £12.50 per adult and signed by Sir Geoff Hurst; a Hornby train set; two tickets to an include a hot buffet. Call 481700 or England World Cup qualifying 791125 to make reservations or dogame; a Woodland Leisure garden nate items for the auction.

Abby's fund boosted online A ball signed by the England football team has raised £150 for the Abby Smith fund which is supporting Swindon children's cancer charity CALM and Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital.

Other items sold, commission free by letusauctionit.co.uk , included a signed Robbie Williams CD which went for £56 and a collection of signed photos (£46). The football signed by Sir Trevor Booking did not sell.

Abby's mother Helen Smith, who was pictured in the March Link presenting the items of sale, said she was pleased by the £252 achieved and thanked Marc Tieleman at letusauctionit.co.uk for his services.

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The Link Magazine • April 2005 3

St Francis officially opens with Royal visit ' When will Snow White be coming?' asked a bemused three year old in the nursery at Taw Hill's St Francis Church of England School after a group of mostly strange adults, including the Duchess of Gloucester, had trouped through their classroom on 10 March.

Nursery teacher Georgina Hay- a short assembly where Bishop of ward patiently explained again Bristol, Michael Hill, had blessed that a Disney character was not the school, its staff, children and expected that day. parents, as well as the decision The Duchess unveiled a plaque makers and designers who had and signed the visitor's book after brought the school to life.

Following a tour of classrooms to meet teachers and talk to children, the Duchess described the school as 'splendid.'

Taw Hill vicar Rev Ruth Cram said there had been a rising tide of expectation before St Francis started in mobiles last September followed by a move to permanent buildings in January. "There is a super team of governors and staff

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Turner said, "it's taken a lot of hard work by so many people to arrive at the official opening, it's been thrilling."

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Is Swindon's growth going too far?

A protest march to take place on Saturday 9 April aims to demonstrate to decision makers and property developers that there is growing opposition to the continued sprawl of Swindon into the surrounding countryside and villages.

As part of the Structure

Plan to 2016, land has to be found for 1,250 homes west of Swindon, assuming 1,800 dwellings proposed for the Coate site goes ahead.

Now the Government quango, the South West Regional Assembly, is suggesting Swindon could be the focus for further massive growth. Planners are currently compiling a report on how the area might absorb an additional 16,000 to 24,000 new homes.

People living in the town 'Enough - listen to us.' The STOP march in June and surrounding villages 2004 to protest against development of Shaw Forest are corning together under Country Park, Coate Water and flit, Front Garden the banner of Swindon Together On Planning (STOP) to pro- • cancel the Front Garden and Coate proposals; test at further growth.

STOP is a non-political alliance • regenerate the town centre with of interested individuals, commu- a university, affordable and social nity, voluntary and campaign housing, retirement dwellings, groups, parish and town councils along with the 'executive apartconcerned about poor planning ments' currently being built; decisions, and the seemingly un- • redevelop all of the brownfield sites in the urban area; checked growth of Swindon.

March coordinator Alan Hay- • make the Mechanics' Institute a ward said Swindon Together On community facility for the whole Planning is not a negative organi- town.

"Make your voice heard; prosation. "It came about because there are so many situations in testing can get results - even in Swindon where development is Swindon."

He points to the success of last taking place or is proposed which planners and decision makers can- year's campaign to stop a stadium not seem to connect to each other. being built on Shaw Forest Coun"Here are suggestions for mak- try Park as an example of people ing a better town before deciding power.

For details of the 9 April event: to grow into more green areas: www.Swindon-STOP.org.uk • finish North Swindon;

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Editorial copy date for May: 8 April Published: 23 April Copy for June: 11 May listened

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: Call Jenni Fowler on (01793)872531 advertising@swindonlink.com Booking deadline: 1 April The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978, It i s completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden

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in England & Wales. No: 4513027, Registered office: 130 High Street, Hungedord, Barks. 5017 ODL. Printed by pcp. Tellorc

The Link Magazine • April 2005

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Yob behaviour not to be tolerated as new actionline is launched Rowdy behaviour, intimidation and harassment, litter, rubbish, fly tipping. graffiti, abandoned vehicles, nuisance neighbours, drug dealing. prostitution. If one of these issues is causing you aggravation, call the new local rate hotline number 0845 605 2222 to speak to Swindon Council's crime and disorder team.

Swindon is one of 25 Together Action Areas around the country where the'It's Your Call' actionline has been set up to offer people a rapid way of reporting problems and to give the police the evidence base for dispersal orders which make it illegal for groups to gather in public spaces, if the police consider behaviour is threatening.

Louise Casey, head of the Home Office Anti-Social Behaviour Unit, called into Freshbrook Village Centre on 28 February to find out from residents and shop keepers if the

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current dispersal order in force at the centre was having the desired effect. She also watched Swindon Council's graffiti busting team in action on the community centre.

She was told that the village centre had always been a gathering point for teenagers but behaviour had been steadily going downhill over the last few years.

South Swindon MP Julia Drown said, "it's shocking what has been happening to some people in Freshbrook. The measures introduced by the Government is designed to help communities to get on top of these problems."

Community centre bar licensee Arno Morsink, who has been involved in the building since it

Cheri Wright, Swindon Council's Anti Social Behaviour Coordinator, Joan Fox from Elsie Hazel Court, Sue Tilley from the crime and disorder team, Eileen Clarke

Residents from nearby Elsie Hazel Court group dwelling said they were too afraid to go out in the evening and had eggs, stones and bags of dogs mess thrown at windows.

Staff from Hair Works salon said they felt intimidated leaving work and community centre staff said they were regularly abused by young people banned from entering the building.

Ms Casey was told that behaviour had improved since a dispersal order was introduced in October and an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) was imposed on 16 year old Leon Morris, excluding him from the village centre. She said, "I'm pleased that these measures are having an effect," said Ms Casey. "Unacceptable behaviour has been tolerated for too long; I'm encouraged that Swindon is taking steps to use the anti-social behaviour legislation."

opened 20 years ago, said behaviour had been getting worse. "In the past nobody has minded teenagers sitting around the village centre, but too often nowadays they get abusive and threatening. There used to be a youth club in the centre, but we just can't let them in the building nowadays.

"There have been fewer problems since the dispersal order started, but we need it kept in place until young people understand that the whole community has to share the village centre."

He hopes that Swindon Council will quickly improve the CCTV equipment at the village centre to record what is going on.

DaveMullard, warden of Elsie Hazel Court, said, "nobody has actually been attacked but there has been rowdy behaviour and stone throwing which creates fear of crime which is not acceptable."

The Link Magazine • April 2005 7

West Centre and Shaw Ridge under orders again Continuing problems with antisocial behaviour at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park and the West Swin`ss don shopping centre have forced Swindon Police to impose another dispersal order.

This gives a uniformed officer powers to move on groups of two ifr or more people if their activities are considered intimidating, har„a assing or alarming to the public S . I` between 9pm and 6am. Under 16s

•

Youth creative The High Sheriff of Wiltshire, James Arkell visited Toothill Community Centre at the end of February to meet youngsters taking part in a break dance and graffiti art workshop run by Swindon Council youth services.

not in the effective control of a parent can be taken home by the police.

Disobedience could result in arrest and a fine.

The area was subject to a dispersal order from May to October last year but disuptive young people have returned.

Uniforms reduce tensions in Taw Hill

North Swindon MP Michael Wills met with people in Taw Hill on 17 March to discuss the increasing anti-social behaviour in the area.

Residents believe increasing problems of noise, damage and graffiti are being caused by young people migrating to the Taw Hill village centre because of dispersal Coward challenge orders imposed in Haydon Wick Furious mother Jane Bowdenwants and parts of West Swindon.

Residents' Association chairman to meet the vandal who kicked in the doors and windows of her Richard Barrass said that about 50 daughter's Renault 11 late on 3 teenagers had gathered on one March in the fisherman's car park weekend evening recently. "The lighting is notyet completed which off Roughmoor Way. "Kelly relies on the car to get to means there are shadows where college and to hockey matches in people can hide. We are on to the Cheltenham," said Jane. "This luna- developers to finish the job."

However the problems have retic has got a lot to answer for; I want duced recentl y after PCSO Rachel this coward to explain himself."

Any witnesses to the incident Messam and Dave Gallagher should call Swindon Police sector started to demonstrate a uniformed presence in the area. team hotline on 507899.

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Worker Lindsay Poole, Crime Beat coordinato Nikki Green and youth service graffiti facilitator Chris Lawton

The series of six workshops funded by the Wiltshire Police Crime Beat programme, which is supported by the High Sheriff, gave young people the opportunity to develop dance routines and also art skills.

Youth worker Lindsay Poole said the project had originally been for young people attending the'Mobie' mobile youth project but word had spread to draw up to 30 young people from all over West Swindon.

"The young people were involved in making a grant application. There is little opportunity for young people to get together in a safe place to participate in creative activities."

The High Sheriff refrained from tryingbreak dance moves, instead he chatted with teenagers about living in West Swindon.

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The Link Magazine • April 2005

Carless Boot Sale

Recycling put at top of agenda

Oliver Tomkins School Beaumaris Road. Toothill Saturday 23 April, 11am - 1pm

A new waste management scheme with much greater emphasis on recycling starts on 4 April.

Instead of a fortnightly paper with Swindon Services, said the will be heavily fined which will be and card collection, 30,000 homes weekly black sack collection of reflected in higher council tax bills across the town will receive a non-recyclables will continue, or reductions in services.

Another 40,000 homes across weekly curbside collection service "Currently 20 per cent of waste is for glass bottles and jars, food and recycled, which is short of expec- Swindon will receive the fortnightly paper and card collection drinkcans, textiles, aluminium foil, tations for this year.

"In the next financial year cen- which means 90 per cent of homes as well as paper and card.

The areas covered by the initia- tral government has set Swindon a in the borough will be covered by tive being taken by Swindon Serv- 30 per cent target which puts us in some kind of recycling service.

Abookletsettingoutnewrefuse ices include 10,000 homes in West the highest recycling bracket for Swindon, Highworth, where an ex- councils. The new curbside collec- collection rounds and what can be panded recycling schemehasbeen tion service will boost the amount recycled will be delivered to every in operation since last year, Old being recycled if householders re- household.

Town and Lawns, Walcot West, spond by separating what can be For recycling advice and queries parts of Haydon Wick and parts of recycled from black bag waste that about the new arrangements, call the waste management team on goes to landfill."

Stratton.

Councils that fail to meet targets 463463.

Andrew Cook, recycling officer

New contact details Conservative councillor Peter Greenhalgh. who represents Freshbrook and Grange Park (including The Prinnells), has a new telephone number and can be contacted on 349675.

E-mail can also be sent to: Peter.Greenhalgh@nationwide .co.uk

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Summer start for wheelie bins in the West Swindon Services launches an experiment across West Swindon in June which will see wheelie bins replace the weekly black bag collection.

The bins which can hold at least ment will inform how the council weekly black bag service and peothree black bags will be emptied deals with waste management in ple who cannot move wheelies will continue to have assistance." future years." every two weeks, West Swindon councillor Nick In response to the 25 residents at At the West Swindon Area Forum on 14 March, council waste the meeting, all of whom were keen Martin, cabinet lead member for manager Geoff Davies, said he on recycling and called for im- finance, said the council had to hoped people will adapt to the proved plastic collection, Geoff meet the cost for both refuse colcurbside recycling scheme which said that a plastic recycling bank lection and the tax on landfill diswill mean there is less need to col- would be installed at the West posal. "The council tax payer is going to be hit if we don't improve lect non-recyclable landfill waste. Swindon Centre by April.

He added that not every house- our recycling rate, so I would en"Government is demanding that a great deal more refuse is recycled hold would be suitable for wheelie courage everybody to sort their and the evidence from this experi- bins. "Some areas will stay on the waste and recycle more."

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And to my grieving family, I leave ..... a pile of problems!!

Irrespective of your age or the value of your estate, making a will and putting your affairs in order is one of the most important tasks you are likely to undertake. To die Intestate (without a will) can produce untold problems for those le ft behind.

What if I die without making a will?

It is illegal to deliberately transfer your own property away to relatives or trusts if the prime motive is to avoid paying for Long Term Care costs.

Married Couples: Without a will, if you have children, your spouse may not However, it is not illegal for your spouse/partner to make provision in his or inherit all ofyour estate. Even ifyou have no children, some ofyour assets may her will that upon death their own half share of the family assets, including go to members of your family other than your spouse. your home, are placed in trust for your children (or other beneficiary) instead Unmarried Couples: UNLESS YOU HAVE MADE A WILL, YOUR of passing directly to you. The difference is that you don't own your spouse's, PARTNER WILL GET NOTHING. Your entire estate would pass to your partner's or joint owner's half share in the property, so you cannot be said children, or if you had none, shared between your brothers, sisters and to be reducing your estate illegally. parents.

Parents ofyoung children: An ex-spouse could be given full parental rights Inheritance Tax over his/her children even if the original separation agreement said differ- Surprising as it may seem, many people pay 40% o ^ently. Even if your ex-spouse cannot make a claim, your children's trust fund Tax on their family's future inheritance. The good news is that you don't have to! may fall under your ex-spouse's control, You don't have to be "rich" to fall into the Inheritance Tax trap! For example, if you own a Protect your home before it is too late modest home say £ 150,000, have insurance poliIf you are a home owner and through no fault of your own find that you cies with a sum insured of £75,000, death in require residential or nursing care, you can lose your home. Under the service benefits at work, say 3 x £30,000, your Community Care Act (1990), your local authority has the right to use a large assets on death could be £315,000. This easily Local area consultant Phil proportion of your savings and sell your home and use the proceeds for your exceeds the Inheritance Tax threshold currently Lewis from Taw Hill care costs. This can happen if you have as little as £12,000 in assets. Yet £263,000. someone who has no savings and does not own a property is eligible for the In this example, of the £52,000 excess, the taxman will take a whopping same level of care for nothing. £20,800. Are you happy to lose this amount in taxwhen there are legallyvalid Over the whole of the UK, nearly half a million people are living in ways to reduce it or even avoid paying it altogether? residential care, and the cost of caring for the growing army of pensioners is predicted to soar to £30 billion by the year 2030. At least 70,000 homes were Where to go and what to do - NOW!! sold last year (that's 200 a day) with £4.3 Billion's worth of inheritances being If you have ever had a will or other legal document prepared, you will know used to pay care costs. how daunting it can be sitting in the solicitor's office giving your instructions whilst at the same time knowing that you only have a half hour appointment in which to do it all. Plus you're probably in a hurry to get back to work as they only work 9 till 5 and you've had to take time off. Very often the solicitor will deal exclusively with the matter at hand — your will — and not take time to discuss other related estate planning issues with you.

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NATIONAL LEGAL SERVICES realised this dilemma and a new way was created. Their mission is to offer a personal home visit to each client by a fully trained local consultant, and to take time to discuss a wide range of issues associated with estate planning in order to help the clients secure a tailor-made package to suit their needs both today and for the rest of their lives.

The local consultant for this area is Phil Lewis of Taw Hill. This was a change of direction for Phil a few years ago after a 30 year career in Worldwide IT. "Having a will for me was not just because I was travelling round the world all the time "said Phil. "There was a reason why Ifelt that way and why Idecided to make this my new profession" `My grandfather was a miner and brought up his 4 sons in the family home.

Some years after my grandmother died, he remarrieda very nice lady, who was also a widow. After many happy years together my grandfather died followed a few months later by his second wife. No wills were made. The whole of my grandfather's estate passed to his second wife, which on her death passed to......... her son from her previous marriage. My father and his 3 brothers were devastated when her son sold every belonging and pocketed all the money. It wasn't so much the money that upset all the brothers, but they didn't have one single item from the house that they all were brought up in to remind them of their father': So you see Ifeel strongly about people putting their affairs in order BEFORE it is too late. "

For a full information pack, National Legal Services can be contacted on 0800 328 2364. Please quote ref no. 8291

10 The Link Magazine • April 2005

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and emergency staff.

Dr Crouch said Dame Elizabeth had been very supportive of initiatives to improve the care for victims during her seven years as Chief Constable. She said, "statistics suggest 4 out of 5 of victims of assault do not come forward because they are worred about going through police procedures. I'm

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Julia Drown and Dr Crouch with Lee and Ernma Underdown and their baby Lewis, whose scan can be seen on the big screen Julia said, "I am honoured to have my name attached to the scanning suite. Parents told us on the All Party Parliamentary Group on Maternity that they appreciate good ante-natal care and access to state of the art technology. I'm very impressed by the atmosphere and surroundings at the medical centre, as well as the amazing scans, which will enhance ante-natal visits."

Dr Peter Crouch said patients registered with the medical centre receive scans free, but the service is available to non-patients who are travelling to Swindon from all over Britain. DeDame Elizabeth with Dr Crouch and tails from www.ukbabyscan Sanctuary administrator Julie Jaynes .co.uk On 12 March the former Chief particularly pleased that The SancConstable of Wiltshire, Dame tuary is able to accept referrals from Elizabeth Neville, opened a dedi- health sources. This should encourcated forensic suite equipped to age a lot more victims to come the very highest standards for forward. www.swindonsanctuary.com photo-documentation of injury and detection of sexual crime.

In 2002 the Taw Hill Medical Parkinson's week event Centre opened The Sanctuary, the Parkinson's Disease sufferers, first in Britain to offer forensic extheir carers and families are inamination outside a police station. vited to a meeting on Wednesday The new suites includes a DNA 13 April. 10am to 2pm. at the sterile room and ultra-clean exHoliday Inn in Dorcan Way. A amination area, complimented by consultant, physiotherapist. dietia shower area and a room for councian and speech therapist from selling victims. the Great Western Hospital and From 6 April new government members of the national and lofunding will allow women and cal Parkinson's Disease Society men who suffer sexual assault to will also be there. For details call ho .of.—A +., Th ,

The Link Magazine • April 2005 11

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Reorganising West Swindon's primary schools.

How well has the council done so far?

Swindon Council's big consultation with primary school ate parents, convinced of their case, sceptical of the parents has ended. Meetings have taken place at proposals, some hostile to change, ready to defend eight of the ten schools in the area, with two general their school at all cost. Other halls have been less full.

Council officers are now considering written submeetings in community centres, to get viewpoints on reorganising school provision to remove up to a missions and the comments from the meetings for a predicted 700 surplus places. This could include report to the cabinet in late April.

The January Link headline asked if the exercise closing two or three schools and their sites sold in order to generate income to invest in other sites as would set out a vision of the future or if there was a disaster in the making. Parent John Doyle from Nine extended' schools, including rebuilding.

Some school halls have been packed with passion- Elms suggests the consultation process is the latter.

Extended schools are one part of a Government initiative to bring about dramatic changes to the delivery of education, health, social and youth services to children. The Laming Inquiry into the death of Victoria Climbie highlighted how these departments focus on their own areas of responsibility, ultimately failing the children they aim to serve and protect. The Government's'5 Year Strategy for Children and Learners' aims to break down departmental barriers and seeks real commitment to putting children first.

As well as the 8am to 6pm childcare provision wrapped around the core teaching hours, we should see: • foreign language classes available to children from age 7; • the opportunity for all children to learn musical instruments; • access to 2 hours quality PE and school sport per week for all children; • networks of primaries with stronger schools aiding weaker ones; • a Children's Service instead of separate Education and Social Service departments, where the focus is on children not the profession working with children;

• a national database of children with social, health, youth and education professionals all having access to the data; • parents having access to their children's data; • focused case workers for children when needed; • joined up planning and delivery of services from early years, through primary school, to secondary school and beyond - a 0 to 19 continuum; • improved results in the basic subjects taught and better results at all Key Stages.

It's a radical change with much more detail than can be shown here, but there are real benefits to children, parents and the wider community — without expecting schools to solve all today's social problems.

Quite how Swindon Council's proposal for'Improving Education Provision in West Swindon' as set out in its document with this title fits into this is difficult to tell.

Extended Schools are mentioned but there is a very clear focus on closure and amalgamations.

There is no real vision for education in West Swindon and limited information has been made available. Indeed, there seems to be a major blind spot to recognising that several schools already have many of the features of extended schools.

Unfortunately the consultation discussions have focused more on finance rather than on education, children or how the community as a whole will benefit in the longer term. The only significant data used to compile the reorganisation proposals is the number of pupils on roll. We see mention of 26 nursery class places in each school and the notion of extra facilities being made available, but there is no real substance behind the ideas.

From the reaction at some meetings there has been just enough information to stimulate the territorial suspicions of parents, to strengthen opposition to change

and encourage campaigns to block closures. The result: schools and neighbourhoods being set against each other.

We cannot: • look at education in West Swindon without referring to the secondary schools that serve the area.

It's meant to be a continuous service from 0 through to 19 not just 4 to 11; • leave parents and prospective parents of Tregoze and Peatmoor schools outside the debate. It's supposed to be a consultation about education not just about closures; • suggest that schools will become community facilities and not discuss what will happen to the existing community facilities across West Swindon; • blindly accept that removing empty spaces in classrooms will generate anywhere near the £15 million that this proposal needs.

House building on the land of closed schools might, but we can only speculate given the lack of openness on this point: • consider the closure of performing schools with good results without a commitment to improve results right across West Swindon.

We can say to the Education Department and Swindon Council: go back to the drawing board and do the task properly. Do audits on the schools looking at more than the numbers on roll. Be honest and open, provide information about costs and evidence that you've worked across council departments and with other service providers, and work out a coherent story.

Finally, provide the vision and leadership that puts the children in West Swindon first and give the parents and prospective parents something to believe in.

Report Card: Education Department Consultation process Information sharing Putting children first Providing leadership & vision

D E F D

Overall Comment: Could do much better.

The Link Magazine • April 2005 13

Heads on the move The two Freshbrook schools under threat in Swindon Council's primary school reorganisation proposals will have new headteachers in September.

Windmill Hill School's long Steven Luke departs this summer In December Her Majesty's Inserving leader David Messenger, to become head of Oaktree Pri- spectors praised the school's manhead since the school opened in mary. He started in early 2003 and agement when it came out of spe1987 to cope with the Freshbrook immediately had to organise a res- cial measures. and Grange Park baby boom, has cue plan after Ofsted put the school announced his retirement, Call Kip for help into special measures due to misNext door, Freshbrook School's

management before he arrived.

Is there an alternative to combining Windmill Hill and Freshbrook schools?

Windmill Hill parent Chris Davison has taken Swindon Council's figures and is suggesting how both schools could successfully co-exist.

Her document is available at West Swindon Library and Freshbrook Community Centre and also at www.swindonlink.com

There was a huge response to the March Link article about the new Kip McGrath Centre. Director David Parkinson said there had been 30 enquiries in three weeks. "It's been fantastic since The Linkcame out.

Parents are very keen on our programme and the children are really enjoying the work."

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Some of the Windmill youngsters who took part in the leukaemia marathon challenge

Painting sports at big school Youngsters from West Swindon primary schools visited Greendown in March to help create large paintings on a sports theme with artists Toni Robinson and Gordon Dickinson.

Children from different year groups took part in workshops to try out different techniques before working on two paintings, one to hang in their own school, the other to be mounted as an activity montage in the Greendown sports hall. Each picture had a surreal feel to them, placing sports activities in odd settings.

Liam McConnell in front of his design of an ice hockey player in a desert with fellow Tregoze School pupils, Toni and Gordon and Greendown helpers

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14 The Link Magazine • April 2005

Parents and councillors secure more primary places in the North

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were small, one in September, five in 2006. Catherine Wallage said parents had been forced into a fight for a common sense solution "Nobody is guaranteed a place, but the decision makes siblings more equal in the allocation process."

Claire Presdee said everybody had helped the siblings campaign.

"The MP Michael Wills, our local councillors, the admission team at Swindon and Mrs Rodbourn, the head of Bridlewood have all been helpful in resolving this problem."

On a wider front, parents unhappy at the lack of schools in the area had been putting pressure on the council to come up with more places. Abbey Meads councillor Justin Tomlinson said he and his colleagues had been working hard with Swindon Education Department and the Education Partnership Board for more local provision. "There was a shortfall of 75 places at Abbey Meads, Catherine Wayte and Bridlewood schools for this September and the extra 27 places will ease the situation. Many more children will receive education in their own community."

However people at Groundwell are not included in the new arrangements (see below).

Hayden Wick councillor David Renard said, "I have spent many hours over the last year fighting to get these places for the parents and children of North Swindon so I am delighted with this result."

Governors at Bridlewood School

Try before you buy proms show With the prom becoming a school tradition, Hreod Parkway Parent Teacher Association will be hosting a Prom Fayre & Fashion Show on Thursday 14 April.

Represented will be businesses offering gowns, menswear hire, hairdressing, make-up, flowers, jewellery and limousine hire.

Exhibitors include Carriages at Three and Jensons Menswear, who are supplying gowns and suits for the fashion show, Moss Bros, Suits You, Elite Fashions, Jason Paul Photography, Lynette Tiaras and First Class Limos.

Tickets at £2 per adult, £1 per child or £3 for a family ticket are on sale from Hreod.

Doors open at 7.30pm with the show starting at 8pm.

The PTA are planning other entertainment for the evening, providing refreshments and running a prize draw.

i

ii

A

Looking forward to going to the same school as their older brothers and sisters Caitlin Green, Annie Presdee, Jennifer Wallage argued against increasing the intake from September 2005. It means the school, which started out in mobiles in 2003 before its permanent buildings were ready injanuary 2004, will see a temporary classroom return to the site. By 2008 the school is expected to be over capacity and governors are worried that education will suffer because children will be taught in mixed age groups.

But cabinet lead member for education coun Gary Perkins said the EPB decision to increase the number of places at Bridlewood and create a single catchment area in North Swindon had been the sensible solution. "This means over 70 per cent of parents in Swindon now have their first choice of school, instead of fifty per cent.

"Parents have won the argument and I'm sure the schools will manage the situation for the benefit of the children."

Groundwell excluded Although new housing at Groundwell, east of Abbey Meads, has been built as part of the Northern expansion, it does not fall within the new single North Swindon catchment area.

This means children living in the area will go to Penhill Primary School under the new Swindon catchment area agreed in January.

Until September 2004 families were in the Abbey Meads School catchment.

Some parents, known to be unhappy by the offer of Penhill School, have decided to sell their houses and move to areas served by different primary schools. One parent unwilling to be named said she had reduced the price on their 4 bedroomed house by £35,000 but still could not find a buyer. She has been told by estate agents that Groundwell is an undesirable area, even though the houses are less than five years old.

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16 The Link Magazine • April 2005

Toddling in Freshbrook

Inspectors pleased with pre-school

Playmates toddler group at Freshbrook Community Centre has places at its Thursday morning sessions, 9.30am to 12noon.

Drop in or call Linda or Roger Tyson on 536772 for information.

Greendown Playgroup has been assessed as providing good quality care and nursery education for its children, according to Ofsted.

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The inspection is the first since the group moved from within Greendown School in September 2001 to its own purpose equipped mobile in the school grounds.

The report says that well deployed staff create a welcoming environment with space organised in clear learning areas. Children are supported during activities and the high adult to child ratio means children are supervised and well cared for at all times. It comments on the vast range of toys and equipment that support child develop-

ini eis i cians

Fun Song sessions for parents/carers with pre-school children and babies North Swindon Library, Lawn, Purton, South Marston, Watchfield, Taw Hill, Broad Town & Wanborough Come along and join in with our fun musical approach to learning

Call Cath on 01793 727286 or email sarah@minimusieians.co .uli Party entertainment now available!

Call Claire on 07960 153985 to find out more!

Left, a few of the youngsters

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ment in all areas.

There is a good balance between structured and free play activities, and children are treated as individuals, their differences acknowledged and respected. There is close liaison between staff and parents who help the group through a well established rota.

The inspectors say that the children's communication, language, literacy skills are very good, as are their physical and mathematical development.

Their personal, social, emotional and creative development is generally good, so is their knowledge and understanding of the world.

Playgroup supervisor Julie Steward said the parents management committee and her staff were very pleased with the report.

"Everybody has worked really hard to make the group an important family resource in Grange Park, especially with the extra responsibility of running our own building."

There are a few places available for the September intake. Call Cheryl Ferry on 878552 for details. with staffat Greendown Play-

group

Family project promotes pre-school groups The West Swindon Family Project is launching two new groups for parents with pre-school children: Mother & Toddler Group for Toothill Parents/Carers and their children. Toothill Community Centre, Friday, 10am to 11.30am, starting Monday 15 April. Games and play for children, coffee and time to talk for adults. Cost £1.

Asian Mother & Toddler Group meets at the West Swindon Family Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, Monday,10.30am to 12noon.

An opportunity to make friends, get support and access services provided by the Centre, all in an informal environment.

For information on both groups, call Niki Hillier on 871303.

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The Link Magazine • April 2005 17

Co-op want to hear from parents about Taw Hill nursery The Co-op were thinking of pulling out of building a nursery at Taw Hill village centre, but have been persuaded by a number of parents to look more closely at the need for pre-school care in the area.

Only eight parents turned up at pects of Imagine Co-operative a public meeting at St Francis Childcare of which many people School on 8 March to discuss the are not aware. As a co-operative, project, but there is still time for the nurseries promote organic and parents to express an interest.

Fairtrade foods and parent inImagine Co-operative Childcare volvement, combined with high development manager Tina Mc- standards of care at affordable Grath said, "there was support for prices.

Imagine have drawn up a cona purpose built day care and many suggestions about how we can sultation form which is available gather more information to decide in Taw Hill Medical Centre, St whether we go ahead.

Francis School and the Co-op at "We've had encouragement Taw Hill village centre. from the head of St Francis and Parents and parents-to-be are local health visitors say that Taw asked to give their views on Hill is experiencing a baby boom, whether the Co-op should build a Parents told us that the need will nursery by 18 April.

For further information, call grow as new housing is built close 01865 256299 or mail: info@ to Taw Hill."

She added that the meeting was imagine.coop www.imagine.coop also an opportunity to explain asToddling in Taw Hill. Parents and children gather on Mondays from 10am to 11.30am in St Francis School. The group is full at present but to find out about places from September, call Angela Reed on 703352.

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LEARHF HO CUI!UE day nursery

A purpose-built nursery on the edge of Wootton Bassett Near M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon â For children 3 months to five years > Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play and garden â Grant places available

For information telephone: 0 1 793 851495 www. thedaynursery. corn Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon

Wriggling around for a year An Abbey Meads parent and toddler group had a birthday party in March to celebrate its first year.

Wrigglers was set up by Lisa Hume and Alison Carr who discovered, having had babies, that they had to join waiting lists to get into a toddler group. Not content to sit around, they set up their own with a handful of other mums with funding from Swindon Early Years Learning Partnership and help from the Swindon Children's Information Centre.

Wrigglers now has 38 children and meets on Monday morning and afternoon at Abbey Meads Community Primary School.

"It's really important for babies and toddlers to play together from an early age," said Alison. "And it's just as important for mums to meet each other in this new community. Wrigglers has become a really friendly group."

The morning session is full but there are places in the afternoon. For details call Lisa Hume on 700141.

18 The Link Magazine • April 2005

Babies rewarded for reading

Is your PC

bugging you?

Call Practical Applications Ltd. for a friendly service • Upgrades _, Repairs • Networking & the internet • Home visits, collection & delivery Or for help getting started, call us days, evenings or weekends on

01793 321361 Mobile 07919 263072 E-mail: alien@practicalapplications.co.uk www.practicalapplications.co.uk

You're never too young to join the library, say Swindon Council library staff and the National Baby Book Crawl on 12 April could be just the time to sign up.

Moreden, Penhill and Pinehurst including Catherine and Laurence day 12 April, 10.30am, when under 4s can take part in a bonus big Libraries have already recruited Anholt.

The Book Crawl will be launched rhyme time activity. babies to the Book Crawl, now the For details call 707120.

North Swindon Library will be at North Swindon Library on Tuesrewarding babies for visiting the brary. li The scheme is aimed at children under 4. All they have to do is join • the library and every time they ^" s ^^ "_ it visit they receive free stickers. y After five visits they will receive ,T^ , a special certificate. There are five ^^•^°' „ to collect, designed by different well-known children sillustrators,

Computer/Laplop Virus & Popup removal, etc. r^1 pa^rs Laser printer maintenance

Wootton Bassett 01793 850050 Est- 1989

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Solutions sought for Taw Hill newts and humps

NOW ANYBODY CAN AFFORD A WEBSITE e - commerce sites Call 01793 4135355

STOP DREAMING START RIDING There's never been a better time to buy a scooter Zoom past traffic jams, no parking problems, full year's road tax only £15 See the fantastic range at THE CYCLING CENTRE, Swindon's No.1 scooter dealer

6

See our sensational ,'S/ill scooters prices from £999

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Easy terms available. Written quotations on request

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BBC Radio Swindon presenter Sandy Martin was guest story reader at Link and Learn Playgroup on World Book Day on 3 March. His reading of Ruth Galloway's Smiley Shark, the kind shark who could not make any friends, impressed a critical audience, dressed up as favourite book characters

other location, Taw Hill parents are though this might getting fed up with take some months. explaining to children why brand new New humps due play equipment reThe speed humps on mains unusable and Queen Elizabeth behind steel barriers.

Drive have been Although part of deemed illegal and the toddlers play area are to be replaced by off Queen Elizabeth bus friendly Berlin Drive has been cushions in early equipped and could April. be used, it remains Residents' Assoout of bounds as another linked play area Newt and human barriers at ciation chairman Richard Barrass said is not yet finished beTaw Hill village centre the association has cause it is designed on top of a protected newt habitat. been campaigning for change, but The North Swindon Develop- the humps are still required. "Unment Company representatives fortunately some people speed Trench Farrow are awaiting a li- through the area endangering pecence to move the newts to an- destrians, especially children."

19

.^u^uidas^

Do ou need a hat but don't want to BUY one? y

Then call -3uo:,sos Hatter

T M

In Haydon Wick (01793) 704005 or

THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Getting ready for the first users at Link Centre Twenty years ago this month the builders were tidying up the Link Centre site, staff were being trained and unpacking equipment. And there was growing excitement when invitations were sent to West Swindon community groups to send representatives to the free first public evening in the ice rink.

07710 298790 to see the large selection of Hats to HIRE! Make a personal appointment to find just the right hat for you

Nine years after the first residents moved into West Swindon,

GRAHAM McCAWON PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO

the reninn's finest leisure facilities

of Calyx Multimedia shows top soil dumped on the football pitch at Moredon Rec, with Moredon Junior School in the background.

"ART" RUSSELL BOULTER MICHAEL GARNER SIMON SHEPHERD The play by

Yasmina Reza

Tranalated

b.

Christopher Hampton

Dveoted by

Simon Shepherd

Pyan ed by

Nick Brooke Ltd by arrangement with David Pugh and Sean Connery

MONDAY 9 to SATURDAY 14 MAY Box Office 01793 524481 WYVERN THEATRE

h 1NDON

www.wyvern theatre.org.uk

20

'swindkn Wide Curtains & Pelmets Canal enthusiasts invite new interest Over 2,500 sq. ft. of products for the Artist, Crafter and Student D.M.C. Main Agency Daylight Lamps Stockist Picture Framing DIY Framing Supplies

at sides and hems.

'City & Guilds qualified • Goblets / triple pleat headings, hand made

'Swags & tails, tailor made 'Tie-backs Roman blinds Pelmets Valances 'Free home visiting service • 1 00% cotton sateen lining 'Tracking & pelmets installed

•

Well worth a visit. Try us!

Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel/Fax: (01793) 513069 Phone for directions. Parking.

FASHIONS Swindon's BEST fabric shop

Call Pat on 01793 695862 or 07760 197510 pat@curtainandpelmets.co.uk

PARTY TENT SMALL MARQUEE

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FABRIC

The Wilts and Berks Canal Trust holds an important conference on 23 April to discuss the way forward for the restoration of the canal which once linked the Thames at Abingdon with the Kennet and Avon Canal near Melksham.

Curtains are hand-stitched

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We also sell Asian suits, designer & casual, saris and jewellery Tailoring service and curtain making Mon. to Sat. 10am to 4pm 25 Tennyson Street. Swindon Tel: (01793) 611869

Extend your

home into the garden 6mx4m

^Of `'

Great for any special occasion - weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, events, etc.

Lights included • Cheap rates

Call 01793 436052 or 07866 570344

Come rain or shine at

in the town centre Called 'Lets get to the River on with it,' the Thames at Latton, event aims to infor the benefit of spire, inform and the community share ideas with and the environthe objective of ment. opening a restored The trust works canal by 2025 to in partnership li nk into a network with local authoriof waterways in the ties, the Inland Wessex area. TopWaterways Assoics will include ciation, British fundraising, wild- than a mile north of Peatmoor Waterways and life, biodiversity the Environment Agency. Several and engineering.

The canal was opened in 1810 stretches and features have aland ran for 52 miles. It passed ready been restored and a feasibilthrough the centre of Swindon ity study carried out in 1998 demalong a route still evident in parts, onstrated that restoration was techfor instance, behind Shrivenham nically and environmentally feasiRoad and Curtis Street. Much is ble, and economically viable as now covered by Fleming Way, the demonstrated in other parts of Britain where canals have become an Parade and Canal Walk.

The canal, served by the Coate aspect of regeneration.

The conference takes place at Water reservoir, gradually fell into disuse due to competition from the the Ellendune Community Centre railway and was abandoned in 1914. in Wroughton on Saturday, 23 April, The 1,700 members of the canal 9.30am. Anyone interested in betrust aim to protect, conserve and coming involved is welcome to atimprove the main route of the ca- tend, but prior booking is essential. nal and the North Swindon Canal, For details call Jan Flanagan on which branched from the Parade 523048.

Studley orange Euttett[v VVcvld

OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY AND DAILY DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, 10.30am - 5.00pm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon Tel: 01793 763939 Map: www.rovesfarm.co.uk

* Meet and feed the animals * Tractor and trailer rides & electric tractors

A family day out thats full of interest and a great venue for birthday parties,

S ,,

* Take a stroll around our 7 different nature trails * Animal racing for charity

J16

=--itlalnq..craPbOoktne, ' , Ing workshop

* Huge big bale straw stack & bouncy castle

Interactive childrens plan area 01793 855566

85437

* Adventure play area and giant sandpit

Butt

* The largest living willow maze in the world! * * *

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FOR

BARN DANCES Willow village to explore and picnic in WEDDIOG Pit RECEPTIONS Indoor heated toddlers soft play & d sandpit & CHILDREN': Crafty half hour!

PARTIES

* Granary Tea Rooms - homemade cakes!

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Gar Many more craft attractions

for the whole family Ceramics Painting for more Info contact 01793 854606 01793 849322

Plaster animal Rairrtin9

01793 855850

You should see who we've

got old our shopping list!

Join the growing band of regular weekly shoppers at the West Swindon Shopping Centre!

You'll quickly discover that shopping has never been easier!

There's FREE and easy parking - with no chance of a ticket.

Enjoy a fantastic variety of good shops and services - all on one level. It's a safe and secure family environment with a choice of places to eat and relax!

ASDA - Superstore P

RICELESS - Shoes

BLO

CKBUSTERS - Video Hire THOMAS COOK - Travel Agents H

ARVESTER - Public House

HALIFAX - Building Society McDONALDS NAT WEST BANK CITIZ

ENSONLINE - Internet Access COOPERS - Chemists DENTAL PRACTICE •

D

OMINO'S PIZZA AYWOODS - Estate Agents

H

HK97 - Chinese Take-away R. J. HOLMES - Opticians LA

JOHNSONS - Dry Cleaners DBROKES - Turf Accountants MARTINS - Newsagents

MO

TORSAVE - Motor Accessories ARTNERS - hairdressing Salon

P

ROSEBY'S - Curtains 6, Bedding TAYLORS - Estate Agents TIMPSON - Shoe Repairs/Key Cutting

Enjoy all your shopping

TRA

WLERMANS - Fish & Chips

under one rnnfl

WEST SWINDON SHOPPING CENTRE • Tewkesbury Way, Swindon www.westswindonshoppingcentre.co.uk

22

Swindler Wide Can you sum up the Spirit of Swindon?

The Swindon Learning Partnership Entries should be taken to any is again running its successful po- Swindon Library by Friday 15 April.

Eight poems will be selected for etry competition, in association with the Swindon Festival of Literature, display in bus shelters across the and is looking for poems which town.

The winners will receive a framed express feelings, visions and thoughts on the theme of 'Spirit of copy of their poem and a book voucher.

Swindon'.

Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm. Saturday 10am - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

Classic Kitchens Large variety of kitchen styles designed especially for you

Banding together for Prospect Swindon's top rock and pop acts will be performing music from the 50's to the present day to boost funds for the Prospect Hospice on Wednesday 6 April. 8pm to 11.30pm at the County Ground Winners Lounge.

On stage will be Penfold and Kelly, add to an exciting night out.

Locomotion, rock 'n rollers Pete All the performers are donating Townsend and the All Stars, plus their talents free of charge. Tickets outrageous girl vocalist from Bris- at £6.50 in advance, or £7.50 on tol, Gina. As a special treat, from the night, are available from SwinTV's 'Stars in their Eyes,' Carl don Tourist Information Centre in Sharpe will be appearing as Bryan Regent Street. tel: 466454. the Arts Adams. The Tony Williamson fan- Centre in Old Town and Prospect tastic light and sound spectacular Hospice Charity Shops in Swinand the Party People Roadshow, don, Gorse Hill. Old Town, as well as dance cabaret Fay & Wroughton and Wootton Bassett.

Music for Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children Saturday 16 April, 8pm. Nine Elms Pub, Old Shaw Lane A fun evening of local up and coming talent who will have ten minutes each to impress.

Call James on 872343 or 07766 863431

Admission £2.50 on the door to support West Swindon mum Nikki Styles' effort to raise money for Great Ormond Street.

For details call 770442 or go to www.thenineelms.com

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry ~ Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns We'll also gladly order an y thing else you need.

-'-'-----

Dolls houses t miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the •

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A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent In the Garden

Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world Mon to Sat 10 to 5 • Sun 11 to 5

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Welcome

to the twelfth

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Swindon Festival of Literature!

I -IS May 2005

When people who write books meet people who read them, enjoyable, interesting, serious, unpredictable, funny, and memorable things happen.

And that is just what we expect at this year's Swindon Festival of Literature.To make sure that they do, we have novelists — established and new; poets — performing and not; comedians — being serious; scientists — addressing art; politicians — explaining why; broadcasters saying why not; philosophers — thinking aloud; commentators — on pace, grace, and beauty; storytellers — on storywalks and blessing tales; columnists — on how to and how not; and even sessions on the garden, the law, the brain, the birds, and the bees!

And there are also days for children and families, a day for writers, a treat for teachers, a dawn chorus for early risers, plus youth and all-age Slams!

This is an opportunity, in Swindon, to see, hear, and meet the men and women who take pains to write well and speak with care, who treat language as a precision instrument and set out to use it as best they can. And what's more, every piece of writing on offer, every different talk, and every story told at the Festival is not only a way of informing, distracting, or entertaining but also a way of inviting each of us to discover more that is dangerous, difficult, or delightful about ourselves and others.

The Festival begins, as ever, with fun and the rising sun, at dawn on that high ridge overlooking the town in Lawn Woods on May Day morning.

And on each subsequent day there will be three or more events, at midday, teatime, and in the evening, carefully spaced and placed, to enable you to attend almost every event, should you have the stamina!

For the full at-a-glance Festival diary, turn over the page.

And then, mark your own diary, so that during the first fifteen days of May you join us for Swindon's very own communion of words: an opportunity to celebrate life, or lament it, and to love literature, togetherA chance to discover that a new idea can be a welcome delight and that today's stranger can be tomorrow's friend!

All that, and more, at this year's Swindon Festival of Literature.

Please read on, and come along.

MATT HOLLAND Festival Director

Er

Sunday I st May DAWN CHORUS — Lawn Woods,The High Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 771080

5.30am!

BAD BIRDWATCHING — with SIMON BARNES Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

12noon

J ULIAN CLARY — in conversation! Wyvern Theatre,Theatre Square Tel: 01793 524481

7.30pm

Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May Dawn Chorus -- 1st

WRITING DAY — with SEAN TAYLOR Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon Tel: 01793 771080 JANE OWEN — on gardens! Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 01793 770401

I Oam — 4pm 6pm

4i

DOM JOLY — in conversation! Wyvern Theatre,Theatre Square Tel: 01793 524481

7.30pm

Tuesday 3rd May

)uhan Gary -- 1st

ROGER SCRUTON — on news from somewhere! Old Railway Museum Tel: 01 793 466454

12.30pm

FERGAL KEANE — on all of these people'! University of Bath in Swindon, Oakfield Campus Tel:01793 466454

7.30pm

CURRY TALES — mmm! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

7.30pm

Wednesday 4th May

Don , : .

CLICK LANGUAGE — with NEIL BENNUN Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

2.30pm

KATIE FFORDE — in conversation! West Swindon Library, Link Centre Tel: 01793 465555

1.15pm

PEN PUSHERS — book launch, with local writers! West Swindon Library, Link Centre Tel: 01793 465555

2.15pm

_.,t

J OHN AGARD — performs poetry! University of Bath in Swindon Tel: 01793 466454

4pm

HELENA KENNEDY QC— on just law! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

6pm

PHILIPPE SANDS — on international law! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01 793 614837

8pm

Thursday 5th May £ I for a POEM! — with RALPH HOYTE.AII round Swindon! Tel: 01793 771080

All day!

CARL HONORE — in praise of slow! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

2.30pm

CLIVE BRAIN MEMORIAL LECTURE — by Prof STEVEN ROSE Swindon College, Tel: 01793 498310

5pm

MAX HASTINGS — on warriors! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

7pm

SONGS that tell STORIES! Old Railway Museum Tel: 01793 466454

8pm

Friday 6th May 1

WORD GAMES with TONY AUGARDE! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837 DAVID STARKEY — on Monarchy! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837 MICHAEL BYWATER — lost! - Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

12.30pm 6pm 7.30pm

THE BLESSING TALE — with ERIC MADDERN Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 01793 770401

6pm

SIMON HOGGART — talks! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01 793 614837

8pm

Saturday 7th May YOUTH SLAM! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

Ilam

STORYWALK with ERIC MADDERN! Lydiard Park, Lydiard House Tel: 01793 770401

2pm

POEMS & PINTS — yes! Town Hall, Regent Circus Tel: 01793 463210

8pm

liagcrt - 6th

RAINER HERSCH — being Victor Borge! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

j

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7.30pm

Sunday 8th May CHILDREN & FAMILIES DAY—yes! Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon Tel: 01793 771080

10am

DAVID BADDIEL — in conversation! Wyvern Theatre,Theatre Square Tel: 01793 524481

6pm

TWELFTH NIGHT — wow! Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square Tel: 01793 524481

8pm

Monday 9th May CLARE SHORT — honourably! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

cntldn?n & F mi;,es ouy- atn

12.30pm

BEE WILSON — on the hive and us! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

6pm

TWO MEN IN A SHOW — Harvey & Hart! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8pm

DAVID MARQUAND — on matters public! Old Railway MuseumTel:01793 466454

7pm

Tuesday 10th May 12.30pm

JEANETTE ORREY — the dinner lady! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 0 1793 614837 :

CLARE DUDMAN — on 98 reasons for being! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel 01793 61 4837

6pm

ROBERT GODDARD — in conversation! North Swindon Library District Centre Tel:01793 707120

7pm

5,<i. e' _ a{,,

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1

EMILY DICKINSON & I — with EDIE CAMPBELL! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8pm ' " snnn -9m

Wednesday 11th May SURVIVORS' POETRY — with four poets! Old Railway Museum Tel: 0! 793 466454

I2.30pm

GLASTONBURY — with MICHAEL EAVIS! Old Railway Museum Tel: 01793 466454

7.30pm

THREE MEN IN A BOAT — with RODNEY BEWES Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel:01793 614837

7.30pm

Thursday 12th May

-

WILLIAM HAGUE — on young politicians! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

Glnsronbury

r,1 - A 1 th

I2.30pm

MICHAEL BUERK — on the road taken! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

6pm

J OHN REDWOOD — singing the blues! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8pm

Friday 13th May BILL MCGUIRE — su r viving! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

12.30pm

XINRAN — on love and time in Tibet! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

a^ichw _,,.,. - I1

6pm

DAVID BOYLE — on authenticity! Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

7.30pm

ALISTAIR MCGOWAN — in conversation! Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8pm

Saturday 14th May GUY BROWNING — on how to...! Old Railway Museum Tel: 01793 466454 STIG OF THE DUMP

y

12.30pm

es! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

^-G AAbst `listair Mc Gowan - t 3th

2 .30pm & 6pm

J OHN BERGER & ANNE MICHAELS — on travel, migration, and history! Old Railway Museum Tel: 01793 466454

o

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7.30pm

Sunday 15th May J ON SNOW — in conversation! Arts Centre Tel: 01793 614837

I2.30pm

SWINDON SLAM! & QUICK QUIP QUIZ — Festival finale! Town Hall, Regent Circus Tel:01793 463210

,Snow

8pm

Swindon Festival

of Literature diary pages

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26

Swirndol Wide What's Music

Wednesday 13th, 8pm KingsofSwing. Four fabulous swing with Friday 1st, 8pm vocalists are accompanied by the The Hamsters. This guitar, bass and talented Kings of Swing 15-piece Midnight Cowboys drums trio play material from their orchestra. £1650. Wyvern Monday: Rodbourne Cheney, 7.30 new album Open All Hours as well as Rodbourne Cheney Club, Moredon Road Thursday 14th, 8pm music of Jimi Hendrix and ZZ Top. (near Rodbourne Arms) Omar and the Howlers with raw, £12 Wyvern Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 rowdy, rambunctious blues, shaking Community Centre Jennings Street Saturday 2nd, 7.30pm down the house . £12.50. Arts Centre (off Rodbourne Road) Stacey Kent: The Boy Next Door.

Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Friday 15th, 8pm Stacey, one of the world's foremost Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Dancing in the Streets. Experience jazz singers with tenor saxophonist, Community Centre. Nythe Road the energy, emotion and electricity The Hamsters at the Wyvern Jim Tomlinson. £15 Wyvern Step by step instruction for of Motown. A brand new production Hendrix, ZZ Top and their own stuff absolute beginners. Weekend Saturday 2nd, 8pm by award winning director Keith socia/s In Highworth and Swindon Rick Payne. Finger-picking guitar liberally lubricated with WD40 Strachan. £19.50. Wyvern For more details maestro Rick's mellow vocals and Wednesday 6th, 7.30pm Saturday 16th, 7.30pm Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 relaxed slide guitar, has the authentic Charlie Landsborough with a blend Glenn Miller Orchestra lead by Ray Ten years of teaching/ sound of the blues. f8.50. Arts Centre of easy listening ballads, blues and McVay with the Moonlight Serencountry music, mixed with his wit and aders and the Uptown Hall Gang repartee. £16.50. Wyvern playing original arrangements of 7th, 8pm classic wartime chart toppers.

Lonnie `D' The `Musical'. A brand £1550. Wyvern new musical and concert rolled into Saturday 16th, 7.30pm experience ^e lifetime! one, depicting the life, time and music Swindon Recital Series: Anna of the legendary King of Skiffle, Markland (piano) with a programme "irrs ...

Lonnie Donegan, produce by that includes Debussy Preludes and i widow, Sharon Donegan. the Grieg Sonata in E minor. £10.

4 Y free for accompanied children under Friday 8th, 7.30pm 14. Arts Centre Bournemouth Symphony Orch- Sunday 17th, 7.30pm estra play Sibelius: Karelia Suite; Swindon Young Musicians' Gala Walton: Cello concert; Dvorak: Concert. A showcase concert with Symphony No 8. £1850. Wyvern V. performances by the Youth Jazz Friday 8th & Saturday 9th Orchestra, Senior Strings, Senior The World Is A Stage. SALOS. Concert Band, Recorder Consort and Swindon Amateur Light Operatic Senior Guitar Ensemble. £6. Wyvern Id^co.0 Society will perform numbers from Wednesday 20th, 2pm Evita, Joseph, Mary Poppins songs We'll Gather Lilacs. Jayne Mayby Gershwin as well as a swing and Sysum evokes memories of the past a traditional/hymn section, in aid of as she sings her way through a great The Prospect Foundation. £6.50. diversity of nostalgic classics. £8. £550 cons. Upper Rooms, above Wyvern the Savoy Friday 22nd, 8pm Saturday 9th, 8pm Alone with Dennis Locorriere - the Bootleg Doors play a tribute to the evocative croaky voice of the original fascinating and psychedelic rock Dr Hook, but not the one with the eye music of the sixties of Jim Morrison patch. Still touring 19 years after the and The Doors. £14. Wyvern band called it a day. £14.50. Wyvern Monday 11th, 8pm Sunday 24th, 7.30pm Albert Lee and Hogan's Heroes. A Naked Voices. A fabulous fifteen mix of country music with everything piece award-winning vocal group from ballads to rock'n'roll thrown in. unleash their stunning arrangements £18. Arts Centre of an exceptional range of songs Tuesday 12th, 7.30pm classical, funk, folk and jazz. £10.

Ray Gelato and his band.

Arts Centre Tuesday 26th, 8pm Jim Moray 4. Folk musician Jim Morays contemporary approach to li ve performance of traditional music is receiving rave reviewing. £1250.

Arts Centre Thursday 28th, 8pm Limehouse Lizzie with astirring and detailed tribute to Thin Lizzie. playing hits such as Sarah, Dancing in the Moonlight and Whisky in the Jar. £12 Wyvern Friday 29th, 8pm Otis Grand's Rhythm and Blues A maestro of swing and jazz, a top Band. One of Europe's pre-eminent drawer entertainer and saxophone blues musicians, Otis Grand delights player. Join him and his powerful purists and those simply looking for a seven piece band for an evening of good night out. Another house classic swing tracks. £18 Arts Centre shaking event. £12.50. Arts Centre

Line Dance

lalFlights!

of a Something different

for someone special! £1

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27

Or in April Exhibitions Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Nature for all An exhibition celebrating the variety and importance of the natural world, seen in and around Swindon.

Wyvern, Lower Foyer From Tuesday 5th to Saturday 30th Lucy Jervis: From Nervous to Nouveau Lucy Jervis charts her progress through mixed media works on canvas.

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Richard Jefferies Museum Marlborough Road. Tel: 466556 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios. Tel: 463210 West Swindon Library.

Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery 1940s: art for a new world As Britain commemorates the 60th anniversaries of D-Day and V.E. Day, Swindon Art Gallery celebrates the establishment of the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art in the same years (1944 - 1945).

Arts Centre Until Saturday 23rd Anita Ford: Madurai The Madurai paintings originated in a journey to Southern India where Anita discovered wayside shrines.

Bathed in colour, sometimes intensely brilliant, sometimes earthy, always arresting in their natural richness.

Great Western Hospital Until Thursday 28th Susan Preston: Works on Paper Susan Preston collects cultural oddments. many found on beaches or in city streets, and makes drawings which can form the starting point for oil paintings and works on paper.

The resulting imagery lies between abstraction and figuration.

Variety Wednesday 27th, 7.30pm Geoffrey Durham's Little Miracles.

Geoffrey Durham's amazing one man show investigates the art of illusion Suitable for all the family. £t0. Arts Centre

Talks Monday 4 April, 7pm - 9pm Gloria: An amazing invention (but what is it?). Keith Birch of Southampton University explains how this robotic submarine uncovered the secrets of the ocean's fl oor. Free. The Science Museum.

Wroughton Friday 22nd, 7.30pm Dad's Underground Army. Military historian, Bill King talks about Britain's secret resistance organisation during WWII, and its headquarters at Coleshill. £4.50.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Dance Monday 25th & Tuesday 26th, 8pm Spirit of the Dance with special guests, Ireland's Three Tenors. Irish in origin and bursting with raw energy, this explosive and powerful show combines the heart-pounding dance with the sensual latino rhythms of flamenco and red hot Salsa. £17.50.

Wyvern

Comedy Friday 1st, 8pm Madame Galina Ballet Star Galactica. From the moment she hurtles onto the stage in full tutu, tights and tiara, this show - a bit stand up. a bit end of pier, a bit panto - and Madame Galina are sure-fire winners. £10. Arts Centre Sunday 3rd, 8pm Harry Hill Live 2005. The award winning self-styled prince-of-daft is back with another show of mayhem and swingball. £1750. Wyvern Friday 15th, 8pm Dara O'Briain. This engaging Irish comic creates a buzz amongst his audience, whether satirising Irish migration, The Easter Uprising orthe gym. £t2. Arts Centre Thursday 21st, 7.30pm Phil Cool. Two hours of original richly diverse material delivered in Phil's unique style. £>4. Wyvern

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Wednesday 20 Apri/. 7 30pm Toothit/ Community Centre Dr David Reed will talk about hearing balance and tinnitus.

All welcome. For more information call Jean Brock on 539456.

Spring Fayre Saturday. 23rd Apri/ 10.30am Haydon Centre, Thames A venue White elephant, books, toys, cakes. games and a raffle.

All proceeds to charity

ii wide What's Cr in April SvI

28

Children and Family Events

Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane. Shaw° >-

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Easter Holiday Activity Day Wednesday 6th Apri/ 10.30am - 3 30pm Spring into action around the farm.

Dip below the pond's surface to see what's there. Try your hand at decorating flowerpots, design a miniature garden, follow the Easter egg treasure hunt, and bake some hot cross buns. £15 Places must be booked in advance on 771080 Family Learning Day Sunday 17Apr17 loam - 12 noon and 2pm - 4pm Sessions include pizza making, juggling and circus skills, batik and tie dying. gardening, magical friends. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but cal/ 771080 for detai/s and to book

Friday 15 April, 8pm -11.45pm A great night out for all those mums that are secret Disco Diva Wiltshire Golf a Countr y Club Wootton Bassett Rinn 131046 for ticket details

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Max searches high and low to his recover fuzzy friend and on the way becomes the first child on the moon.A rock'n'roll show for 2 - 7 year olds. £5 Arts Centre Saturday 30th, 2pm & 5pm Chuckle Brothers in 'Pirates of the River Rother'. Paul and Barry are back in a swashbuckling adventure of ghost ships, pirates, fun and oh dear oh dear calamity. £10. Wyvern

Monday 11th. 1.30pm & 7.30pm Phantom of the Opera (12A) Until Sunday 10th Starring Jennifer Ellison, Minnie Cheeky Chicks - holiday trail. Where Driver and Emmy Rossum. Andrew are all those naughty chicks hiding.

Lloyd Webber's tale of obsession £ 1. Drop-in activity. Swindon Museum and revenge comes to life with & Art Gallery fantastic sets and sensational songs.

Saturday 2nd, 1lam and 2pm £3(matinee,), £4. Wyvern The Mole Who Knew It Was None Wednesday 13th, 7.45pm Of His Business presented by I' m Not Scared (15) Scamp and Kipper Tie. From a line10 year old Michele discovers a dark dancing horse to Poop Doggy Dog secret while playing with friends and the rapper, follow Mole's travels in is catapulted into a frightening adult this magical musical adaptation of world of betrayal and deception, in the popular children's picture book. which his own parents are implicated.

Suit 4 years upwards. £5. Arts Centre Subtitled. Swindon Fi/m Society Tuesday 5th, 2pm to 4pm Monday 18th, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Words and Pictures. Richard JeffMeet the Fockers (12A) eries wrote Bevis. a children's story Following the box office hit Meet The set in Coate. Be inspired and decorate Wednesday 6th to Saturday 9t h Parentscomes the arrival of the even a mug and plate with scenes from a 7.30pm more outrageous Byrnes family and favourite story. Suit ages 5 -11. £4. A Few Good Men presented by 01 d the Fockers. £3(matinee^, £4. Wyvern Richarddefferies Museum. Book via Town Theatre Company. In thi s Thursday 28th, 7.45pm Swindon Museum & Art Gallery courtroom drama by Aaron Sorki n Stage Beauty (15) two military lawyers defend two US Claire Danes and Billy Crudup join a Saturday 9th, 11am - 4pm Country Crafts' Day. Learn about soldiers accused of murdering a wealth of British talent in Richard traditional country crafts and try some fellow marine who 'broke the code Eyre's lavish, bawdy and dramatically for yourself. Free. Swindon Museum £5 Arts Centre different comedy set in the ever& Art Gallery Wednesday 27th, 7.30pm changing world of the Restoration Reduced Shakespeare Compan Y period theatre. £4. Arts Centre Saturday 23rd, 1 pm & 3.30pm Bananas in Pyjamas. Join in with The West End's longest runnin g Swindon Film Society this fantastic new performance as comedy on a national tour - Th e All films are shown at the Arts Centre: the Bananas decide to make-up a Complete Works of Willia m tickets arenotso/din advance, society show and recreate some of their Shakespeare (abridged) - all 37 play s leaflets are avai/able at the Arts in just 97 minutes. £14. Wyvern Centre.' join when purchasing tickets. favourite fairy tales. £8. Wyvern

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Swindon Wide Eighty voices aloud Swindon Choral Society perform Elgar's Dream of Gerontius on Saturday 2 April, 8pm at Holy Rood Church, Groundwell Road.

West Forest Symphonia provide the accompaniment under musical director Robin Nelson, with bass Graeme Broadbent, tenor Peter Aughty, mezzo soprano Kirsty Nelson.

Tickets at £10/£7 concessions, from Janet Fox on 521822 or The Arts Centre. Devizes Road. Accompanied under 15's free.

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Singing live Tracey Shield is Celine Dion.

Winner of Gr an ada's `Stars in Their Eyes'.

Enjoy the tribute together with a 4 course c an dle lit dinner.

Association holds annual gathering Shaw Residents Association holds its Annual General Meeting on Monday 4 April, 8pm, in the Shaw Community Hall, next to the Ridge Green Medical Centre at the village centre.

In the last yearthe association was closely involved in the fightto save Shaw post office, the battle to stop the commercial development of Shaw Forest Country Park, the problems of anti-social behaviour at Shaw Village Centre and discussion on the future of the spare site there.

Anybody who lives in Shaw, Ramleaze, Middleleaze and Nine Elms can take part in the annual meeting. To make a committee nomination, or join the SRA committee, mail: secretary @shawresidents.org.uk

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SwirdGr Wide The lost farms in the West: Toothill Farm Last month TheLinkhighlightedthefactthatSwindonCouncil has included Toothill Farm and the open space around it is a possible development site as part of the local plan to 2011. Local historian Frances Bevan reveals its past in the third of her articles on the farms of West Swindon.

The name Toothill is derived from the Old English or Saxon word'tot' meaning 'look out' or 'watching post' and traditionally such areas were known as local meeting places.

From the early 17th Century Toothill Farm was one of several local properties owned by the Governors of Charterhouse. This was a hospital for war veterans of King James and a school for the 'poor,'

IIII;

which was founded by Thomas Sutton in 1611, and comprised a complex of buildings on the outskirts of the City of London.

To finance this enterprise the Governors acquired vast tracts of land in Essex, Cambridgeshire and Wiltshire, including the local Elcombe estate with farms in Lydiard Tregoze and Wroughton.

Historical documents relating to Toothill Farm include leases and bailiff and ploughing rights certificates dating back to the late 16th century, now held at the London Metropolitan Archives.

writes to the Governors that: 'The Farm House will be a Sufficient Tennantable House for this Farm for a Hundred Years to come.'

A hundred years later Edward Plummer was the tenant, employing six men and two boys and farming 178 acres of pasture and meadow.

In 1940 T. Lavington, the Marlborough firm of Auctioneers, made a survey of the Wiltshire County Council owned farm as one tenancy ended and another began. It gives the impression of a rundown, neglected farm, requir-

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01793 480777 or 07834 685871 6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB Tooth,// Farmhouse and outbui/dings, 1975, with the Great Western Way being built in the foreground ing basic husbandry attention. The stock consisted of 14 dairy cows, 1 4 young cattle, 2 horses; 150 fowl and three sows and young pigs.

In November 1971 Swindon Borough Council gave approval to plans for development of a 300 acre site at Toot Hill south of the A420 Swindon to Wootton Bassett Road. the first of the new urban villages of West Swindon, home for a proposed 6,000 people.

Whilst the farmhouse was saved from demolition, ancient fields of pasture and meadowland rapidly disappeared, though many of the original hedgelines still exist.

Today the 18th Century farmhouse is yet again under threat.

Converted byThamesdown Council into a social hall in 1978 and used by various clubs and groups for overtwenty-five years, the building is now claimed to be unsafe for public use, and the open space around the farmhouse on Bodiam Drive has been identified as a prime site for yet The barn at Tooth,// Farm, 1979, more housing. News that would definitely have had Jasper Yorke reaching for his quill!

In 1685 Charles Vylett of Wroughton signed a twenty-one year lease on the farm described as 'Toothill also known as Tuthill with appurtenances adjoining to certaine land called the Blagrove.'

The farm consisted of '140 acres thereabout' and Vylett paid rent of £140 per year.

The farm remained in the Vylett family into the 18th Century when in 1763 Jasper Yorke, husband of Bridget Vylett became involved in a property dispute with his undertenant David Smith.

Yorke wrote a series of furious letters to the governors of Charterhouse challenging Smith's claim that the farmhouse was uninhabitable. Smith didn't want money for repairs, he wanted the lease, and he petitions the governors to rebuild the house at his own expense, but Yorke was not going to give in without a fight. By November of that year, Yorke has the repairs well under way and

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School to promote activity with Westfield prize Youngsters at Catherine Wayte Primary School are going to be very active over the next year, thanks to the delivery of new equipment won in a competition run by Westfield Shopping Towns who manage the Brunel Centre.

During the Autumn, schools were offered the chance to win £4,000 worth of sports and playground kit. Parents had to exchange shopping receipts for points and children were able to boost the points totals by sending in poems and pictures.

The combined efforts of parents and children at Catherine Wayte earned the highest number of points and in December deputy headteacher Emma Brown took some children into the town centre to collect a cheque from former boxer Frank Bruno.

The shopping list included two table tennis tables, basketball posts and nets, rugby balls, rounders posts, outdoor athletics and indoor gym equipment and also items to encourage active playtimes.

Headteacher Celia Messenger said she was delighted by the effort of parents and children to win the competition. "It was a brilliant team effort. Parents focussed their shopping patterns on the town centre to help the school earn the points, and the children produced some great poems and pictures.

"We have been able to buy

Cricketers offers

game and a picturesque setting Swindon United Churches cricket team has its historic roots in the churches in the area but now welcomes adult players with or without church connections.

Its home ground in a picturesque rural setting at Sevenhampton, two miles outside Swindon, has won the best pitch award on several occasions.

For good cricket and a programme of friendly and Wiltshire League matches, and good company, call club secretary, David Martin for details on 770171.

Celia Messenger and PE coordinator Rachel Farmer with Catherine Wayte children showing off some of their winnings luxury items, which tend to get pushed to the bottom of our shopping list when we're spending the budget allocation. This kit allows us to pursue our commitment to encouraging physical activity by all our pupils."

Become A Member Of The De Vere Swindon Leisure Club & Take Advantage Of Our Superb Facilities New Membership Packages Include: Joint Full Membership £70 per month Joint Off Peak membership £55 per month Over 60's & Children's memberships are also ai ailable Facilities inicude:

Sky TV winners Catherine Wayte is building up a track record of winning competitions.

A poster on the theme of ' Weather in the News' has been chosen to appear on Sky News.

The striking painting featuring a tornado lifting up everything in its path is among sixteen which will feature on Sky News during May and June. The school has won goody bags and there are certificates for the winning artists.

Heated Indoor Pool, Cardio Vascular Suite, Sauna, Gymnasium, Solarium, Steam Room, Spa Pool, Fitech Lifestyle Room, Health & Beauty Suite, Cafe Pulse

For more information on all our Leisure Club packages call the Club direct on 01793 889360 quoting LM/LC2005

Mum of twins takes on Tumble Tots After over ten years of managing Tumble Tots in Swindon, Sue Dobson is retiring. She will be very much missed by parents and their children who have known her and enjoyed their weekly Tumble Tots sessions.

Taking over the franchise is There are a limited number of Charlotte Boyes-Corfield, Middle- places available. Call Charlotte on leaze mum of four sons, including 0844 800 0219 for details. twins.

She said that starting physical activity is more i mportant than ever.

"Tumble Tots is the leading provider of structured physical play sessions for pre-school children. As children jump, roll, crawl and climb their way through the Tumble Tots programme, they carefu ll y 6 ' explor develop their ph physical a capabilities and build confi^:3 dence to last a life time." >.

Tumble Tots runs ;o twenty classes in and around Swindon and Charlotte is hoping to increase this number.

Charlotte, left, and Sue, with Alysa Shaw and Lewis Kirk

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32 The Link Magazine • A pril 2005

Club swings into action

Neighbours get together for marathon

A year ago two mums from Abbey Meads who live in the same street did not know each other. Now they are in hard training for the London marathon on 17 April and are looking for sponsors.

So dedicated are they that to get Hreod Parkway School science got chatting and decided to start Swindon Croquet Club holds a a run in around families and jobs, free 'Come and Try Open Day' on teacher Natalie King, 31, and Lucy running together.

Natalie said that once the pair the pair have been seen running in Wednesday 6 April, 10am to 4pm Skittrall, who works in relocation on the club lawns at Moredon met each other at a make-up party, had worked up to 10 minute jogs high winds, rain and the snow in last June, the idea of running the March, sometimes at 6am or even Playing Fields, opposite Manor marathon started to snowball. 10pm.

Garden Centre Farmers' Markets As the training is goingwell, the "We've committed to run for Equipment and guidance on Goods produced within 30 miles of VICTA(visuallyimpairedchildren women are focussing on meeting how to play the game will be availSwindon with occasional specialtaking action) and are aiming to their fundraising target. able. The club will start a coaching ist producers from outside the area, To sponsor them, call Natalie on raise over £2,000. course for new players on WednesEvery Sunday, 10am to 6pm. at "It's a small charity and a really 07967 104277 or Lucy on 07754 day evenings from 18 May. worthwhile cause. Being a teacher 372012.

Croquet is suitable for all ages the Designer Outlet. and abilities. Turn up and take Swindon Town Centre. next to the and both being mothers we wanted Come together to curry-okee part on 6 April or call John Airey covered market, first and third something close to our hearts."

NatalieandLucyhavebeenrais- Natalie and Lucy are combining Thursday of the month. on 873026 for details. ingmoneythroughdonations,raf- curry dishes from Rafus of fles and supermarket bag packing. Highworth with karaoke for a great They are also looking for corpo- night out on 8 April at Hreod ( rate sponsorship in return for ad- Parkway School. Call them to book _ . ` ieve ^ ucee i W /^f^G f/G^ J WJJs vertising space on running vests, a ticket.

PILATES CLASSES Shaw Village Hall Mon: 6pm - 7pm; Wed: 7.30pm - 8.30pm Haydon Wick Tues: 8pm - 9pm Prime Bodies Gym Tues: IOam - I lam

Get your Red Noses out for a Superstars challenge

YOGA CLASSES Haydon Wick Mon: 7.30pm - 8.30pm (Beginners class) Greendown School Tues: 8pm - 9pm; En: 7.30pm - 8.30pm CrickladeTown Hall Mon: 7.30pm - 8.30pm; Thurs: I pm - 2pm

Staff in the Link Centre gym are looking for 30 Swindon Card holders to take up a Superstars challenge for men and women aged over 16 on 2 April in aid of Comic Relief There will be 7 events: 100 metre swim; 100 metre shuttle run; gym fitness tests including squat thrusts and press ups; football skills test; 500 metre row; 5 minute bike ride; 800 metre fun.

Participants will have to drop out of one event but can play a Red Nose (for double points) on another.

Entry forms are available from Link Gym reception. The fee is £5.

All proceeds will go to Comic Relief and winners will earn prizes.

NEW CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS at IYC, Old Shaw Lane Yoga Wed: 12.30pm - 1.30pm Pilates Thurs:9.30am - 10.30am; Thurs: 7pm - 8pm

Reiki - a personal insight In our series of articles on complimentary therapies, Yasmin Hopkinson explains Reiki Having worked within the fitness industry for the past twenty years, I initially discovered complimentary therapies as a patient and being so impressed with the approach and effects, I progressed to become a practitioner of several holistic disciplines and then a Reiki Mas-

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This progression was accompanied by the teaching of 'Body Balance' a unique mind /body class which includes elements of Tai Chi, yoga and Pilates. The fragments of my life were coming together on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

Reiki joined my path of life several years ago, and like so many others I came upon it by chance. I found it to be supportive through a very stressful time and it supplied me with insights that made even the challenges fulfilling. I find that people are attracted to Reiki like bees to a scented flower; often the other therapies are the initial contact, but then they will be curious to try a Reiki treatment.

A session combines the flow of universal life energy with the warmth, reassurance and healing power of human touch. The word

Reiki means 'universal life force': it is everywhere, available to anyone who is attuned to access it.

Reiki calls upon traditional healing techniques to bring harmony and happiness into all areas of our lives.

Reiki does not tie into any particular religion: people of all sorts of belief creeds and cultures benefit from its specific energy that helps our own healing systems to work to their full potential, revitalising and re-balancing. The healing should be considered on all levels: mind, body and spirit. When dealing with symptoms it is worth remembering that many physical ailments are only manifestations of long-term imbalances within the total person.

The therapy is received fully clothed, the practitioner placing their hands just above or lightly touching the areas of blocked energy. The recipient lies on the couch, enjoying a deep relaxation; your body temperature may rise or fall, and you may experience a sensationof lightness orheaviness.

Sensitivity can vary with each treatment, depending on your health and stress levels.

The Link Magazine • April 2005 33

National Phobic Society Swindon New self-help support group for anybody suffering anxiety Wednesday 8pm - 9.30pm Health Hydro. Milton Road Sessions are free, contributions welcome Contact Richard Reynolds 07733 067059 or mail: swindonphobiasupport@mail.com

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34 The Link Magazine

ril 2005

Red Noses Youngsters at Catherine Wayte School in Abbey Meads got into the spirit of Red Nose Day by dressing up, but also studying the causes which receive grants from Comic Relief.

Left, Isobel Cassidy wears a unique T-shirt, with Rosie Rusga,front, Arun Leyhal, left, and Ben Parkinson

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Freshbrook School set them,, a , ^^ selves the task of raising £1,000 in a day from wearing red noses, dressing up and looking at the issues raised --by Comic Relief in their citizenship programme.

Youngsters took part in an hour of sponsored activity in the afternoon, including rollerblading, skipping, a penalty shoot-out and mak- Teacher NicolaAndertonandYear6pupilDamn/ ing a giant Red Nose collage. Baker raised cash by skipping in wellies Parent Karen Raybey made a Comic Relief cake which was raffled to boost the total.

Bethan (5) and Samuel (3) Webber from Abbey Meads invited their friends to a Red Nose Day party on 11 March and with help of parents Alison and Geraint running a Comic Relief sweep-stake at work, they raised a whopping £163.50.

Alison said special thanks had to go to Abbey Meads Church for the use of facilities, McDonalds who donated boxes, toys and balloons and Sainsbury's at Stratton who helped with the party food. She added that Highworth entertainer John Williams gave a brilliant magic show.

Ae/u1o/1t/, YOUR LOCAL PVC-U MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

Blackford Timber Supplies 1 Why not let us handle everything

from start to finish?

Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lowe r Wanborough. SN4 OAS

•

• ALL FENCING PRODUCTS Weekdays 7am - 5pm; • GATES SPECIALLY MADE Saturday 8am - 12 noon • POSTS & RAILS Local delivery contact Laurie • DECKING 07887 907904 • FIXINGS • ROOFING FELTS & SHINGLES All m aj or cards accepted HOW TO FIND US

GREENHILL FROM WOOTTON BASSETT

^-

•BLACKFORDS -'---

FROM LYDIARD MILLICENT* & WEST SWINDON

« FROM PURTON

GREENHILL, GREATFIELD, WOOTTON BASSETT, SWINDON

The Link Magazine • April 2005 35

revisited Staff and students at Greendown School in Grange Park got serious about helping producers in poorer countries by taking part in a Ready Steady Cook competition using only Fair Trade Products.

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CAL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

PARKING Don't let annoying cosmetic damage ruin the look and value of your car

CENTRAL SWINDON Annual long stay parking from only £63.00 per month Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793-690600 Members of the Fair Trade cooking teams with their creations, from left Rebecca Pike, Jade Caroll, headteacher Steve O'Sullivan, Dennis Denley, Luke Wright, Catherine Pinner, Versha Mandalia, The Friends of Greendown School have achieved their initial aim of replacing the school's two minibuses through sports events, discos and rock concerts, organised with the help of staff and students.

The first bus has been delivered and fundraising is well on the way for another.

The Friends recently

j

• Paintwork scuffs and scratches • Interior trim repairs • Bumper repairs • Alloy wheel repairs

Call 07050 266325 for a free, no obligation quote

your partner in business

www.trimlineswindon.co.uk

Providing friendly & efficient * servicing to any make of car

* engine & gearbox rebuilds * electrical repairs * brake and clutch repairs * cam belt replacement * MOT repairs * sales

launched a 500 Club

and are calling on more parents and supporters of the school to join the scheme. The more who take part, the larger the prize money and the faster the £50,000 target is reached.

To join call the school on 874224 or drop into reception.

ANYMA RE OF VEHICLE

LSERVICED-,

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667 39b Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Iv

Right, Red Nose Day success for Head of Science Sally Thurlow, choosing the winner of the next draw on the random numbergenerator with Friends of Greendown, Tracey Warren, Julie Porter, Nicky Howard

SW

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Est. 1981

s

N

With 250 bikes on show THE price is right

THE parking is free

Your local garage door specialist • Up and over, roller and sectional garage doors • Remote operation doors • 2 years guarantee • Maintenance free doors • Superb security locking facilities • Stockists of the largest range of spare parts in the South West of England mi

Telephone 01793 513796 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Parts, repairs accessories, back up stock Open: Mon to Sat 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

^I "'

^y NEE

36 The Link Magazine - April 2005

Anything Stone UK Ltd. Suppliers of finely finished granite, marble, li mestone, slate, sandstone and gypsum

Granite Worktops Enhance your kitchen with the beauty of natural stone.

Add value to the most important room of your home.

Table tops. bar tops. shop counters, reception desks and more.

Affordable granite worktops from £137 per metre.

Local supplier and stockists, visit us and see your stone.

Buy direct from the importer.

It's easy to replace your existing worktops - or we can work alongside your kitchen installer.

Trade sales welcome.

Call us now on 08702 422 998 Visit our showroom at: Unit 41 BSS House, Cheney Manor All credit cards accepted Visit us at www.anythingstoneuk.com The Finest Stone at Rock Bottom Prices!

FO► F + ► UALIII - F-_ " Pke^s^Jay

1JK

Bathroom Warehouse UNIT 2 LYNTON ROAD, CHENEY MANOR IND EST SWINDON, WILTS SN22QJ 01793 619708

A hard choice offered by international stone supplier Visit Anything Stone at Cheney Manor and you're faced by a bewildering range of natural stone products from all over the world.

Set up by former Cellular Operations executives Nick Oldland and Nick Hockin, Anything Stone import stone for the kitchen, bathroom, shops, restaurants and corporate customers.

They also under-take bespoke work in natural stone, from marble fireplaces to granite chess sets for the garden to the exotic, such as a two metre high elephant in pink granite.

According to Nick, nothing beats the beauty of polished marble and granite.

"Marble bathrooms and granite worktops are common throughout Europe but they have yet to make an appearance in the average UKhome,mainlybecause of cost," said Nick. "Our aim is to make natural stone affordable and more widely used in the UK. With granite worktops starting at £137 per metre we hope more people will consider them when planning a house makeover.

"Kitchens and bathrooms are the two most important rooms when adding value to your home; the

Nick Oldland and Nick Hockin addition ofabeautifulmarblefloor or granite worktop will give you a great deal of enjoyment and will just give your property that edge when you decide to sell.

"As our slogan goes, we supply the finest stone at rock bottom prices."

The range of products and finishes offered by Anything Stone can be seen at BSS House on the Cheney Manor Industrial Estate.

Drop in or call 08702 422 998. www.anythingstoneuk.com

HdIC ANC M I F2F SPECIAL OFFERS ON Manor Gardens EX-DISPLAY SUITES Lynton Road UP TO 40% OFF

UK BATHROOM

WAREHOUSE

CHENEY MANOR L ESTATE

Great Western Way

HEATED RAIL

I NSTALLATION LEADS AND WEB SITE REFERRALS AVAILABLE NOW!

OPEN 8:30-6PM WEEKDAY SATURDAY 10-4PM

The Link Magazine • April 2005 37

By-pass on the way Over 500 people viewed the long awaited proposals to re-route the A419 around Blunsdon village at a public exhibition in March.

The Government has agreed the £65 million to build the 3.3 kilometre road. The 18 month programme of work could start in 2006, but if there are objections to be considered at a public enquiry, the project would not start until 2007.

The documents setting out how the project will be achieved can be seen at the North Swindon Library.

The Highways Agency impression of the new road with added annotations 4et.e. ems,. ^^ ^

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home?

Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday?

Pets At Home could be your answer

I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals.

Whether you're away on holida} or just out at work all day, I can feed, walk and care for your pets.

Service tailored to suit your needs.

For more details phone Carole on 01793 702098

«^.

PETS AT HOME

Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062 sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk )

For offers,

Thameswood

prices, advice&

Small Animal Hospital

information, log on to our web site

4 hour- Emergency Service F}►

Sw on's most modern small animal hospital, offering igh qualit} surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring, friendly and professional environment.

62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 526780 Open all day: Monday' Friday.

In memory of pets

y

Saturda 9am - 11 am

Angeless Watkins-Gallar from The Prinnells has set up lovedpets.co.uk , which he says offers an ever lasting place where pets memories can live forever. The site charges £20 to place a photo and words of remembrance.

,verc,. ^ SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE " C

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

t

" entf ' r

A . fi iendly, caring service for yoir and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm Saturday

9.00am - 4.00pm

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Paradise Pets Ltd

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

We offer the largest selection of cage and avairy birds, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Small select range of reptiles

Tel.: (01793) 881919 (24 hours) Food for all your pets

D

AN B EY b VETERINARY' ry 'w

'

RQV

'IFTFRINARV HOSPI7At ^

^}

S

ERY

Abbeymeads Village Centre, Elstree Way, Abbeymeads, Swindon. Tel: 01793 728728

l' 7

^t

-,

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6.3opm Saturday: 12 noon-3pm Consulting hours by appointment: Mon-Fri: 9 am-10.30am: 3.3opm-5pm; 5.30pm 4 .3opm: Saturday: 12 noon-3pm 24 HR E.NF.RGF_.VC.YSERi7C.E - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: 01793 522483

sh ec^ list est larg pet sp store• Hand reared parrots in stock

^^^^t us soo

n

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm: Sat: 1 Oam - 5pm: Sun: 10.30am - 4pm

Tel: 01793 512400

38 The Link Magazine • April 2005

GARDEN

LAWNHOPPERS

, n^

grasscutting

DOCTORS

0

LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

L9 • Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139

• • • • •

All types of fencing installed Full patio/decking service Made to measure gates All pressure treated timbers Help/advice on all fencing & landscape matters

Weekly. fortnightly or monthly visits All machinery supplied to keep your garden neat and tidy All rubbish removed Full garden maintenance service available

Free estimates on 01793 855800

nr

Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

L

• Fencing repaired/replaced.

• Patios & paths. Decking & pergolas.

• General garden maintenance.

• Paving cleaned.

• Laminate flooring laid, internal and external painting undertaken, tiling, etc.

amily, Busin

A grasscutting service for both large and small gardens

A O I JC A HNG

Chelworth Landscapes

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

• Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding

• Fencing and gates

• Ponds & pergolas

Contact: 01793 692687 0771 1 253508 4

i

Quality work at reasonable rates.

Customer references available.

Contact Russell Pratt on 01793 706026 or 07834 402606

Closeboard, trellis. pane/s. picket chain/ink, security etc

• Landscaping Shing/e, paving, water features. turf/Hg andp/anting

• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc

For free quotation phone (01793) 750390 www.c

iIW CARD N

EDEN

SERVICES

LANDSCAPES

Garden Maintenance.

Planning & Design A personal, friendly service to enable you to fully appreciate your garden !6 Planting 0 • Pruning 0► Landscaping d% Grass Cutting/Lawn Care 0 6 Garden Clearance/Tidy-ups A Hedge Trimming A Fence Repairs/Painting 06 Garden sitting whilst you are away Fully public liability insurance Call for a free estimate or guide to costs Tel/Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733

O Paving, Walling PATIO & TURF LAYING GENERAL GARDEN TIDY

"No job too small'!

Give your garden a makeover

For reliable service and quality work

Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 84305 6 e-mail: davidsmith@garden-groomers.com www.garden-groomers.com

(DAVID HAWKINS

TREE SURGEON

PAVING

All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting

• Driveways • Patios • Decking • Fencing • Walling • Pergolas Quality work and innovative ideas

01793 752373 or 07802 752576 sit our comprehensive website

www.acerpaving.co.uk

O Gravel drives

FENCE ERECTION, STAINING & MAINTENANCE

ACER M

Specialist paving & landscaping contractors

O Fencing, Patios

Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates Il

y

ears c•.gperirnc•e

01793 823257 07050 383060 t'

W. BEVAN

Complete Landscape Services From survey to completion - make your dream garden a reali ty • Patios designed, laid and repaired

• Fencing and fence repairs • Decking, gazebos, etc.

• Tu rf supplied and laid • Water features installed • Trees pruned & pollarded, hedges cut, roots removed etc.

• Low maintenance garden a speciality Call for a free no obligation quote, 01793 813603

References or 078997 41804 available

PERFECTION IS OUR FINISH

LANDSERVE Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

fll^%.

Professional care Foryour garden Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning I ledge Cutting & Pruning No Job Too Small. All works insured.

Call Martin Emery Ml Ilort. for free quotation on 01793 703306 or Mobile 1)7771 956294

LANDSCAPE SERVICES www.horticare.co.uk * Patios * Ponds * Turfing * Fencing * Garden maintenance * Garden design *k Decking * Pergolas ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Tel: 01367 710772 Mob: 0775 4245160 STEVE JEANS Lawn &

Garden Maintenance s? Lawn cutting • General gardening * Hedge cutting • Fencing s7 Turfing ' a * Gravelling 'ter One-off or regular customers welcome For regular reliable and friendly service call Steve Tel: 01793 536713 Mobile: 0794 1022 461

Would you like to get more from your garden ?

Why not get some help from a plant specialist and medal winning gardener > Professional designs drawn to suit your needs/budget

> Imaginative planting plans for whole or part of your garden > Plant supply and planting Call Anita Barrett ND Hort A / Hort

01793 751403

Anita Barra tt Garden Design

The Link Magazine • April 2005 39

More gardens wanted to show off in aid of Breakthrough The now traditional West Swindon annual open gardens weekend takes place on 25 and 26 June and organisers would like more gardeners to join them in raising cash for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Last year 18 gardens were opened, hr, ol-1^7Jmainly in the Nine breast, car.^cer `7 r ` Elms area, raising £2,300 for the charity. But coordinator Lesley Dredge would like more to

Volunteers are invited to take part in a weekend to create an outdoor classroom for Abbey Meads School on 16 and 17 April.

Work includes building a pond dipping platform, hedge and shrub planting, and tidying up the area.

Cheques totalling £1,500 will be presented by the Co-op and Swindon Agenda 21 to fund the work.

For details call Roxanna Cox on 0796 602 3636.

S

Right, November's pond clean up working party

join in. "It's great

+

fun to open your garden and show

,? a p

off your hard work

;

^

and creativity. _; ,. tF ^f„ We're still nearl y +' threemonthsawa\ Lesley, above, and open gardens volunteers will he ready from the weekend to serve up much needed refreshment so there's time to plan your garden display, and even invite people to drop by and sugForest meeting gest what you can do with it."

The Swindon Forest Protection She added that participants Group holds its Annual General don't have to open on both days, Meeting on Monday 11 April, nor do they have to be in West 7.30pm at the Woodlands Edge, Swindon. Gardens in other parts Peatmoor Village Centre. of the town are welcome to join, The group was formed last May but it would be good to get neighwhen Shaw Forest Country Park bours involved so that visitors can was threatened by commercial see a group of gardens in an area. development and continues to For details call Lesley on 772869. monitor its future. Everybody is The Link will again be producing invited to attend. the open gardens' programme.

AIRIj, wnv

Pond dipping help wanted

Trees growing Several hundred people turned out to plant trees at Purton Wood on 5 March.

The day was run jointly by the Woodland Trust and the Great vvestern community rorest.

Neil, Lynne and Charlotte Martin from Taw Hill were just one family to take part

D.A. D RI VEWAYS & PATIOS LTD

73 Block Paving 73 Landscaping 73 Fencing 0 Decorative Stone 17l General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service. free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

www.timherdeckingco.co.uk

r

T1- E TIMBER DECKING COMPANY

LTD Your complete TIMBER DECKING Specialist

O Timber Decking O Easy Assemble Customised Decking Kits

FREE ELWVERY

0 Tanalised Timber

COMPETITIVE PRICES OPEN 7 DAYS BUILDING MATERIALS :b

i s..)..1 l: i r.. v:Iv

.)

/il^>.^.`1^i^tr^^,.

^•4_ '4

1

O Pergolas, Arbours & Gazebos

O Decorative Aggregates w s_..,

Side of Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Est, Swindon. Tel: 484455

O Ornamental Fencing

6 Brindley Close Cheney Manor

Industrial Estate Swindon SN2 2YW

01793 488899 Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm; Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 12noon - 4pm (April - Sept)

40

ADRIAN AMOS LTD General Domestic Contractor Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Your caring family business No Obligation • No Pressure • No Gimmicks!

Come and see u

at West Swindon

• '

A Shopping Centre Ap ril 1i 15th

I

t o 1 8th

April ril

30th April to 2nd May

Mobile: 07811 383747 or 07900 584175

• Brickwork Plastering • Plumbing • Interior/

REGISTERED

decorating

• Handyman • No job too small, whatever your requirement. Ring for no obligation quote Call Adrian on 07775 646299 or 01793 700025

bay,,,,;,,:

FE NSA]

KLASS CONSTRUCTION

EXTENSIONS CONSERVATORI ES PORCHES WINDOWS & DOORS ROOFING FASCIA, SOFFIT AND GUTTERING

FOR THE FINAL TOUCH OF KLASS CALL: 01793 613388

or email: info@AAmos.co.uk

Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

SOLUTION Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FlRE:l: SIJRVL:Y NO 1)EPOSI'I' Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted £ 60 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication)

For a free quote

e-mail: rapers@tinyworld.co.uk

MOBILE: 07715 842241

^s Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

Small patches to whole houses - internal & external All plumbing work undertaken For free no obligation quotes. contact Paul or Ian 01793 828925 Mob. 07966 314276 or 01793 879190 Mob. 07961 432508

Ashdown Electrical & Plumbing Services 01793 349468

07979 267757 From complete house renovation to replacing tap washers, no job too small

• Property Maintenance • Kitchens and Bathrooms fitted • Electrical - extra sockets, rewires. fuse boards, security lighting. showers

FENSA Registered Company

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett.

• Plumbing - bathroom suites. showers garden taps. appliance installation • Floors and Walls - ceramic tiling and l aminates

Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote

PREMIER BUILDERS

-I - L-- O

PLUMBING SERVICES

KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAMINATE FLOORING HOME: 01193 615321

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

PLASTERING EL

PI UMMMBING 8 DIY

Contact Pat McHugh

Choose from a wide range of fabrics front the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

iH L

Tel: 01793 521300 Mobile: 07802 500183

Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free

i';'

L e4eU,

Specialists in high quality brickwork Domestic & commercial Extensions & renovations Property maintenance

D & L Blinds

H_

I

mH

^..

Office: 01793 877883 Q

BRICKLAYING CONTRACTORS

T U ---"`= Q

exterior

P.S. SUCH

COMPLETE PROPERTY SERVICES (Formerly Merlin Property Services) Kitchens + Bathrooms Renovations + Alterations Industrial maintenance Plumbing + Electrical + UPVC Doors & Windows •• I Carpentry + Floor & wall tiling Painting & decorating

Mobile: 07785 522377 Tel: 01793 616170

Brickwork & Roofin Walling • Extensions • Alterations • Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work.

Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. 'No job too small'.

Tel: 01793-871032 Mobile: 0795 0017584 Unit 14a, Turnpike. Blunsdon

Steve George for Bathrooms and Kitchens Tel: 8 74480 Mobile: 07860 760364 Complete bathrooms fitted

Howdens kitchens fitted

• Building work

• Free survery

• Plastering

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• Plastering

• Electrics

• Tiling & Worktops

• Plumbing

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• Furniture

• Wooden flooring

28 years experienced tradesman

E'er APPROVED

M

CENTRE

Li WILSON BRICKWORK Specialising in smaller works • General property maintenance • Brickwork/maintenance • Blockwork • Extensions/porches • Garden walls/patios • Interior & exterior decoration • Tiling - walls & floors • Free no obligation quotation • Other works arranged • Insured • No lob too small

(^

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419 'mail: brickwork@fsmail.net

MR

ELECTRIC

NEW LOCAL OFFICE

,oE.. E1• a,c•, ur•,nnn' NOW OPEN • i No call out or ove rt ime charges {• 24 Hour Emergency Service :• Electrical Repairs & Upgrades fi Inspection & Testing fi Rewiring & Extra points •: Outdoor Lighting & Sockets I O YIE'AR :• Electric Showers & Heating GD R' NTEE 4 ADT Approved Dis tr ibutors .• Free quotations & advice :• Friendly dependable service :• Major credit cards accepted :• National Company

Tel: 01793 729247 0800 7311606 (24hr) www.mr-electric.cu.uk We have the power to make things better

• Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small • Free quotations

dOy_p06g,q

Call Craig Gavin

HOME Z

Tel: 01793 881905 07973 663367

Heating systems FULLY FITTED BATHROOMS FULLY FITTED KITCHENS GARAGE CONVERSIONS ELECTRICS / LIGHTING PLASTERING / DRY LINING CERAMIC WALL / FLOOR TILING GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Tel/Fax: 01793 527420 Mobile: 07767 471008 E-mail:bttthroomsys@aol.com Visit our website on: www.bathroomandheatingsetvices.com In association with Qualit

y

Boilers repaired & serviced Radiators moved and replaced Appliance installation

And all other plumbing works For a free estimate or advice call Jamie: 07748 195677 Office: 01793 849452

Building Solutions

DIY PVC-U

Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry, Extensions/Renovations and much more

Nome &

Garden I mprovements

General carpentry Fitted kitchens/bedrooms Laminate flooring Wall/floor tiling Block paving • Patios Fencing • Turfing Decking Guttering/fascia 49 Twineham Road, Redhouse, Swindon

Office: 01793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

-• d n`

building, Maintenance & Repairs

• GARAGE CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS • INTERNALALTERATIONS • REFURBISHMENTS • MAINTENANCE WORK • INSURANCE WORK

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150 644 1 THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FORA HEALTHIER HOME

from

TIRADE DIRECT Interior and exterior decorating carried out to

House Medic • Electric showers • Power showers • Replacement taps • Exchange suites • En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails • ShowerTraysAndCubicles • Complete Bathroom Makeovers • Insurance Work Undertaken

Bathroom installation

a high standard including:

1 S Property Services

All other plumbing and heating work undertaken

& Heating

All your needs in one number

BOILERS

fie/iab/e and efficient qua/ity service

SERVICES DESIGN & INSTALLAT TO THE HIGHEST

IMPROVEMENTS

or 07880 735405

• Installed • Repositioned • Repaired & serviced

Plumbing

^ zi^tez a ae d Seca ra r,

Call Dave for further details or a free quotation Mobile: 07778 207977

01793 321326

Braydon

'B&H`

Dave Rogers

PLUMBING & HEATING Professional & Reliable • Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements

41

• Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance NO JOBTOO SMALL For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

PLANNING APPLICATIONS Drawings for: 0 Home Extensions 0 Conservatories

0 Garages Please contact: (01285) 713936

•

WINDOWS LTD Windows

Doors Conservatories • Fascia • Cladding • Guttering • Fixings • Sealants n^ , vX, r. ; „^ r Irrr1 , _ c,..,o(i • •

Tel: 01793 528686 Fax: 01793 432221

plans drawn for extensions change of use

wise plan for a professional &friendly service call sandra wisenian On

01793 539274 for a free

or

Mob: 07779 247888

no obligation consultation

e Services Complete itchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms Plumbing & Heating Specialists Tim Harris Peter Foyle Mobile: 07736 740267 Mobile: 07788 776000 Telephone: (01793) 825456

42

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS'

Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of * All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes. machines installed

ire

RSS

^ Plumbing

Bathrooms & Kitchens

12

07748 964433

DEC ORATOR ti]

Walls ^e ^_ CU & Floors

Complete Bathroom Installation

• I nterior/exterior painting & decorating • Wallpaper hanging • Tiling • Replacement skirtingboards coving, picture rails •Laminate flooring fitted • And other carpentry & building services No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Contact Andy: 01793 729354 /07900 835116

UPVC windows 8 doors

Also bathroom and kitchen

FREE QUOTATIONS

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

• PLUMBING • TILING • ELECTRICS • EN SUITES

Roofing Et building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

01793 431211

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

or 07771 998924 email: shirebathrooms@aol.com

DECORATOR

fl

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

general plumbing

installations

01793 725232

Paul IZhind

bathrooms

Tiling

Free estimates

BUILDING SERVICES

BATHROOMS

DECORATOR

KEVIN WHELAN

DECORATOR

JAMES O'SULLIVAN

Painting and decorating Domestic & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES Quality & Service

High Quality Painting & Decorating

Interior & Exterior FOR FREE QUOTATIONS

CALL 01793

725699 OR 07734 779736

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing L:stablished 22 rears

For a professional finish telephone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

Tel: 01793 882093 Mobile: 07957 934536

HEATING & PLUMBING

I NC

a yr

SERVICE

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

Call now for a free, at home consultation

HOME MAINTENANCE G R SERVICES Tiling Interior and exterior painting and decorating Kitchen and bathroom installations Gardening/fencing/patios Roof repairs Fascias & guttering

Friendly, reliable and competitive Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

O All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed O Warm air unit service, repair & installation O Landlord/moving house safety inspections

'INEMA ROOM • GAMES ROOM GYMNASIUM • OFFICE ?LAYROOM • KITCHEN/DINER TEL: 01793 770088 MOB: 07710 1-50644

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience

25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

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07970 865883

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HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK Tel/Fax: 01793 723495

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Reg: 202015

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

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MAINTENANCE

D & G

Mobile: 07771 617992 All garden work Concreting paths

Building Guttering and

Patio repairs

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Patio jet wash Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

All carpentry External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs

Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced ALL WORK GUARANTEED, FULLY INSURED

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

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Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Handymen Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or

08456 444170

(calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

SERVICES

All interior and exterior m aintenance problems solved • Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393

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Replacement doors & staircases Laminate floors

* Stairs

Household repairs and

* Specialising in shop fitting * All carpentry work

Interior/Exterior

Professional interior/exterior painter and decorator

Painting, wallpapering

Personal one-to-one service

coving, dado rails and tiling

general maintenance

J Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes

undertaken

Paul Comer

01-CORATORS

J Fitted bedrooms and kitchens

* Wood and laminate flooring

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DECORATOR

CARPEN D&IR C irtpentry

No job too big or too small For a professional and friendly service call jir

01793 701394 or 07917 061717

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

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Dave Ody

SWINDON e GLOUCESTER

COa(5ERVATORIES

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For quality windows and doors Tel: 01793 331551 07775621764/07799 284998 FE NSAI See our advert on page 1

HEATING & PLUMBING

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SERVICES EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS SECURITY LIGHTING / FIRE ALARMS s GARDEN LIGHTING / OUTDOOR SOCKETS SHOWER AND COOKER INSTALLATION FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT a- COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE 07769 883717 TEL: 01793 876029

HEATING & PLUMBING

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive

Heating & Plumbing For gas central heating.. bathrooms, showers and all other plumbing & heating work

rates

CALL 01793 522579

• All work guaranteed • No job too small

Reg 203455

Brian Jones Plastering Services External rendering Plastering two coat Re-skimming Dry lining Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

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Reg 67416

General plumbing services • Radiators • Pumps • Tanks • Cylinders • Burst pipe • Taps • Washing machine installed A local service by

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Tel: 01793 435392

M.D.

New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards

SOCKETS AND LIGHTING TO SHOWERS AND RE- WIRES. FOR FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE

Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

HEATING &

PLUMBING I

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs,

Tel: 01793 815254

TEL 01793 495365

MOBILE 077438 74621

HEATING & PLUMBING

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central hea ti ng installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905

Reg 187606

SKIP HIRE

PLUMBING

0777 5840236 or 321981

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

All aspects of phimbiii

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For free quote call Paul on

For all your domestic & commercial requirements

bathroom and power showers

MOBILE: 07816 906437 matt@mpshcating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk

PLASTERING

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Clean, reliable, quality work - no job too small

ELECTRICIAN

ROB HALL

RJ PEARCE

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

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Mobile: 07973 663367 TILING

BASSETI

GILES BROS

SKIPS LTD

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

If all that clutter is getting you down call Bassett Skips for the best prices in town.

O 2, 4 and 6 tonne with drop down doors for easy loading O No hidden costs or charges

01793 84 89 51

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

SERVICE

44

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

MAGIC SAT

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE3

(European Satellite Specialists)

Services

AERIAL SERVICES

• TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Signal amplifiers interfe e de No call ottt ately? Tetra filters fitted

You've tried the rest, now try the best, from aerials to motorised satellite systems.

If we can't do it, nobody can.

• Official satellite viewing cards • Free estimates • On call until 10pm 7 days a week • Free sport • Free movies Free adult I All work guaranteed Tel: (01793) 706921

charge

Tel: 01225 706379 Mobile: 07774 943 783

Mobile: 07765 224637 L4^^

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BOOK-KEEPING

Same day, local service wherever possible • Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

Tel: 01793 700637

to C d im f G1 UG BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST • CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting

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A premier ironing, dry cleaning, handwashing & shirt service • Free collection and delivery (home or office) • 24 hrs turnaround • Available 7 days a week One-off loads or regular collection • All work done to your requirements (hanging or folded)

• Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out

Sky & digital terrestial *" Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

Storm damage Tel: 01193 100018 Mobile: 0111 6236415

I BOOK-KEEPING

On your l>tISIIWS5 Natasha Armstrong (MICB

For a brochure or to arrange a free initial consultation, please ring me on 887393 or e-mail: natasha.armstrong@virgin.net

IRO NING

Creaseless Ironing Services One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever!

Free pick up and delivery back to your door the next day.

All items delivered on hangers and wrapped in cellophane Guaranteed animal and

smoke free environment

SECURITY SYSTEMS

^M1First ABBEY MOVE Class Removal & Storage Solutions _

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Call Karen on 01793 822659 or 07843 6 90720

Tel: 01793 722077 07748 588210

REMOVALS & STORAGE

• Quality removals & storage • Single items to full house moves • Complete packing service offered A • Sales & supplies of packaging materials • Piano removal specialists • A free quotation • A fully insured service

0800 019 5037 www.abbeymove.co.uk

Certified Bookkeeper Membership No: 20024079

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• No call out charge

Tel: 01793 435392

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Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

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Satellite TV

ARMSTRONG BOOKKEEPING SERVICES

Can't face doing the books after a hard day's work?

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& SATELLITE SYSTEMS

All work guaranteed

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

AERIALS

SECURITY SYSTEM S

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Crown Burglar alarms Access controls CCTV • Fire alarms Installed, repaired, maintained

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iExpert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers If

• cc-ry • Access Control & Intercoms • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour MonitorinC

24 hour monitoring for police response For details call Doug Marshall on 433999

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email:

SECTOR AIRPORT TRAVEL

AIRPORTS

Connect Ltd Specialist airport

transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for holiday makers Competitive prices

Tel 702000 COMPUTER SUPPORT(

45

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

REMIER

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repairs to all makes

of domestic appliances

Tel: 01793 469300 COMPUTER SUPPORT

Master's , PC Repairs

Jargon free advice & support

IRONING

Consultancy Installation Support

Making IT work for you T: 01793 778 034 M: 07788 586 779 E: info@ringview.co.uk www.ringview.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

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• Same day service

A SUDS COMPUTER SUPPORT

PC Support straight to your door • Computer running slow?

• Need some advice?

• Looking to upgrade?

Equipment required?

• Virus and Internet attack questions?

• Wishing to backup?

01793 887883 / 07947 831378 contact@it-2-u.com Pro-R. www.it-2-u.com ^«•

REMOVALS

COMPUTER SUPPORT

I SIGMA

COMPUTER SOLUTIONS NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363 sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

REMOVALS & STORAGE REMOVALS M ST

L-f Ironing Services We are a well established door-to-door ironing service delivering professional finished results

Guaranteed repairs

IT 2-U.com

= Upgrades/repairs = All parts & labour guaranteed = Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0798 002 5590

• Most leading brands

No call out charge

Same day/next day service

Corn

WhN go any where else?When well come to you.....

Free home & business visits

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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WHITE VAN MAN Single items Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

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Disposal of unwanted items House clearance Long/short distance

Call us on 608822

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills

(Est 1993) 24hrs - 7 days a week Single items to a full house 8 different size vehicles Disposal of unwanted items

Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444

www.LHIroning.co.uk

also undertaken

Mobile: 07780 946267

Email: ashgroupl@btinternet.com

. V Purpose equipped shop I0 V Professional team 4 V Independent quality checks o V Sensible flexible visiting times ` D_

THE MAN WITH A VAN

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

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I SELF STORAGE .Need Extra Storage?

Personal or Business Self Storage at Latton (just off A419) For the lowest prices in the area, call Pauline May or Alex Oram

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates ,, No call out charge

For alT your storage needs

BROWNS UPHOLSTERY SERVICES

for all your upholstery requirements Using traditional methods and materials or slightly more modern techniques if required.

WINDOW CLEANING

By Crystalline Local, reliable, QUALITY service Windows, a frames and doors cleaned to a very high standard Internal cleaning undertaken if required

,* All repairs guaranteed

Call BROWNS for free friendly advice

Call Martin on 01793 349102

Tel: 01793-812738

Tel: 01793 886486 Mobile: 07780 950797

Make your windows shine with Crystalline

on 01793 759311

e: info@waterparkstorage.com www.waterparkstorage.com

UPHOLSTERY

or 07974 198083

46 The Link Magazine • April 2005 '

1\\lLL ) Q .

Quality hairdressing ^^^ by an experienced / stylist who will listen and advise you with all your hairdressing 9 g needs. using .9 t5' the latest cutting and 9S y cobs ri fly techniques ^r HA i eCe ^

For free advice or appointment call JACQUI on 01793 327563 Email: jajacqui@hotmail.com

Registered Childminder

Chinese experience

Flexible, friendly, negotiable rates 8 years experience. One week free

Former Greendown student Lucy Proctor describes a land of mystery and surprise

Available Monday to Friday, 6am to 9pm. including school drop-offs and pick-ups.

Seven years ago I was struggling with the Chinese characters I used on my GCSE art coursework. After six months living in China, the beautiful alphabet is proving to be one of the few things I am beginning to understand about this isolated, perplexing place.

Also weekends & late evenings Call 07957 166529 or 871466

SPANISH APARTMENT - COSTA BLANCA Swimming pool Sleeps up to 6 people

Reasonable rates.

Call 01793 700253 or visit: Iww.soain-holidav-aoartment.co.uk

LW

DISC SERVICES/

We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos

WE MAKE MOVIE CLIPS OF YOUR CHILD GROWING UP Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

Luxury apartment in Los Cristianos Sunny May Special Offer One weeks accommodation in a luxury apartment only 100 yards from the sea front for only £200.

For more details call 334380 email tazlight@tiscali.co.uk

Cl C[ Cfl l STHRT Domestic Cleaning Services • Regular weekly cleans • Fortnightly cleans • One-off Spring cleans Call Christine on (01793) 701413 (9am - 5pm) Mob: 07951 184424

9±D. 21pho(stery Repairs & Recovering Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive priceses

I came in search of a culture shock, to work as a teacher, a last fling before settling down to life in the real world. Talking to fellow teachers and travellers, there are few places on earth that satisfy this desire more.

Here Wal-Mart and McDonalds operate around the corner from shops selling textbooks about the imperialist, capitalist West. It is a place where you can travel by train from a tropical rainforest to an arctic ice festival and not cross a border, where the oldest unified state on Earth is home to many who cannot speak the official language, Mandarin.

The Chinese are very proud of their 5,000 years of history, and wandering around cities like Beijing and Xian, this sense of time strikes everyone. Imperial palaces, huge cliff carvings, city walls, pagodas. All reveal a once great people, far advanced of the West. Yet these relics, the lucky ones that escaped the Cultural Revolution in the sixties and seventies, also reveal a great loss.

Spirituality, intellectualism and individuality were almost wiped out during the darkest years of Mao. The country has not recovered.

Despite the excitement in the Western media about China's economic growth, it lags behind other developing countries in terms of social change and internationalism.

Attitudes to foreigners range from the absurd to the offensive, a result of centuries of self-imposed isolation and more recent propaganda.

The exception is Da Shan, a Canadian who has made his name as an English language guru with fluent Mandarin. The Chinese love him.

His fame is an indicator of the rush to learn English. It is a passport out of drab, identikit villages, where most of the population still lives. In some cases, students from the countryside are bankrolled through university by their entire

Lucy and guide at the Longman caves

village in the hope that they will return and bring fortune.

The pressure to succeed is intense, and depression is common.

English is also a key to unlocking secrets kept from the people by the government, through the internet.

So far the freedom that was predicted as a result of economic reform has not materialized. Party membership and guanxi (connections) are the best way into any high position.

The events in 1989 in Tiananmen Square are still a secret, and typing the words into an internet search engine is dangerous. Teaching contracts for foreign teachers include a clause that prevents any discussion of politics or religion with students, an offence likely to lead to deportation. The Chinese involved face harsher punishments.

The frustration among them often manifests itself as tirades against America. Unable to criticise their own government, young men in particular seem to enjoy heckling Westerners. This often puts me in the strange position of defending American foreign policy, which though flawed, did not cause the Korean War. Of course, there comes a point in every argument that touches on politics where no more can safely be said.

One year in any country is only long enough to scratch the surface.

The language alone, where the word inc can mean horse, mother, balance or question, depending on the way you Lucy, left, at the ancient Longman caves say it, makes China a closed door to most.

I have six months left to make sense of this noisy, crowded, confusing, and ultimately mesmerising land.

The Link Magazine • April 2005 47

Come forward to help Europe's most successful conservation movement The National Trust is calling for volunteers to help with administration and IT work in Swindon.

Volunteers are required now at help the Trust to achieve its conits current office at Kembrey Park servation goals." and then at the new headquarters, Volunteers will also get the Heelis, at Churchward. chance to be on the ground floor of Mark Crosby said people with the spectacular new HQ building computer skills and experience are which opens this summer and is needed to help with ambitious designed to be one of the most plans for protecting the environ- energy ef fi cient offices inexistence. ment and historic buildings. "VolThe Trust promotes a green unteering with the National Trust travel policy and whilst there is no is a'gift relationship,' so you won't free parking, travel and other outbe subject to the restrictions and of-pocket costs will be reimbursed. commitment of a paid job. On the To discuss volunteering opporother hand it offers the opportu- tunities contact the Volunteering nity to make new friends, enhance Team, The National Trust, Rowan skills and employment prospects, House, Kembrey Park, Swindon boost your confidence, and make SN2 8YL. Call 0870 6095383 or use of your spare time by doing mail: volunteers@national trust something enjoyable which will .org.uk

Ring around the clock. Make time to make poverty history

Purton House Church End Purton, Swindon

Members of local branches of Amnesty International, Friends of the Earth, Oxfam, World Development Movement and Swindon Churches Together are asking readers to make a human ring around the town centre Jubilee Clock to show the town's support for Make Poverty History:

Tel: 01793 772287 Call for details about our

Organic Box Scheme Vegetables • Fruit Meat • Eggs Deliveries & drop off points in Swindon. Cirencester, Wootton Bassett, Broad Hinton, Marlborough, Wroughton

Saturday 9 April, 12 noon, crossroads of Regent Street and The Parade.

www.ptn-ton-house.co.uk

Organisers are asking supporters to wear white and gather to the North, South, East & West along Regent Street and The Parade to converge on the clock at noon.

For more information call Steve or Barbara Aftelak on 536815 or:

o^Evangol.

barbaraaftelak@nthvorld.eem

I

O I,Worsley Road

Haydon plagued by fly tipping Haydon Wick parish councillors are appealing to people living in the area to stop dumping their refuse in public places across Haydon and Abbey Meads.

The picture shows rubbish collected from a short stretch of Haydon brook running from The Brow, through open space land at Cloverlands to Westfield Way. Fly tipping is an offence and where evidence is available, prosecution will follow. To report incidents call the parish council on 722446 so that a Swindon Services clean up team can be sent in.

Disorder problems to be discussed The Haydon Wick Neighbourhood Safety Team (NeST) continues to review the problems being faced by residents of the parish from unruly youngsters rampaging around the area.

At the February meeting, residents and representatives of the police, parish council and the Swindon Council's Crime and Disorder Unit considered the graffiti and tagging that continues to afflict the area.

The next meeting takes place on Monday 23 April, 7pm, at the parish council offices in Thames Avenue. Residents, community representatives or anyone providing a local service is welcome to attend.

Tsunami Trawlerman help The Trawlerman fish and chip shop at West Swindon Centre would like to thank all who took part in their National Chip Week Asian Tsunami Appeal Day on 18 February. £376.77 was raised from the collection box, an hour's wage from each member of staff and ten per cent of the Trawlerman's takings.

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building with people Sunday services are at

I Oam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org the gift of God is Eternal Life" I Romans 6 2$,

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Tooth ill Church; Westlea Church

For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 770568 partnershipoffice@btopenworld. com

Starting at Peatmoor Community Facilities Aerobics for children for 5 to 7s, Monday 11 April for 3 weeks, 4.30pm - 5.30pm for 8 to 1 1 s, Tuesday 12 April for 3 weeks, 4.30pm - 5.30pm. £7.50 ClubBase (dance for all abilities). Thursday 14 April for 7 weeks. £14 for 6 to 8s, 4pm - 4.45pm for 9 to 11s. 4.45pm - 5.45 pm Fencing. Friday 15 April for 7 weeks. £14 - for 9 to 11 s. (school years 5 & 6) Ballet.Tuesday 12 April. 2.45pm - 3.15pm for 7 weeks. £14 - for 3 to 4s

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School ^THAMESDO`+VN oR^V I

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Abbe Meads t9 Community Primary School

Booking is essential Call Peatmoor School community office on 881613. Leave a message if unattended.

Abbey

Lollipops Fun Club Easter activity Thursday 7 April, 1 0.30am - 1.30pm Sing. dance, act and have fun, for children aged 5 to 10 years.

Cost £10. Call 881613 to book.

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Broome Manor Golf Complex Highworth Golf Centre Moredon Par 3 Coate Water

9 & 18 hole 9 hole 9 hole Pitch & Putt

Enquiries: 01793 495761 Bookings: 01793 532403

Broome Manor Golf Complex, Pipers Way, Swindon SN3 1 RG