August 2001 Swindon Link

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No. 231 • August 2001 • Circulation 22,000

once in Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

Tregoze Primary School celebrates tenth year

Win a genuine

Headteacher Steve Menham, left, with former pupils. rear from left, Andrew Cormack. Paul Collyer Grant Warwick, Mark Bateman. Lewis Webb. Front, Steve Warwick, Adam Grieves. Liam Bateman Story and photo on page 12

signed by Becks

England shirt

Pirates raid Abbey Meads and raise £3,500.

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See page 11.

A stocks soaking for Hannah Dolan

There's a warm ^lcome from Mr Ali and his staff at "Purton's hidden Indian treasure"

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14

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West Swindon PCs have been fitted out with new helmets and eye protectors. See page 2

Fax: 01793 770998

Free takeaway delivery incl. West & North Swindon The Swindon Branch of the Downs Syndrome Association is auctioning a unique piece of kit - a specially stamped England shirt not available in the shops. signed by captain David Beckham.

Turn to page 29 to find out how to make a bid for the shirt shown off by Stephen Thomas and Callum Brett at Cellular Operations

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

`Suits you, sir.' New kit for crime busting officers

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Kitted out with new safety helmet, dark eye protectors and bright yellow jackets, WPC Pat Jones, PCs Phil Connor, Rob Mortimer and Robin Weatherston are out and about on their bikes cracking down on crime and ensuring the community is safe.

"The new equipment does not actually give us magical powers," said Pat. "We use our knowledge of the patch, our contact with residents and good intelligence to try and make sure the area is safe from

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those who want to commit crime and cause nuisance."

Robin, who covers Rodbourne and Cheney Manor, reckons the bike is the easiest way to get around in Swindon's snarled up traffic. "Using cycleways and back alleys, I can get to parts cars cannot, and often reach the scene quicker. It's also Last, rider;, from left, Phil Con or, possible to patrol a Rob Mortimer, Pat Jones, Robin Weatherstone much bigger area durlevel. If you think something illeing a shift."

Getting on their bikes has been a gal is taking place, no matter how positive move as far as residents trivial, let us know. Your suspiare concerned says Phil Connor. cions may be right. You may not be "We get a lot of comments about aware of it, but every piece of inseeing police officers on patrol. The formation is followed up because kit gives us a high visibility in our we have to report back to area, but at the same time we're Crimestoppers. Help us press able to stop and chat as necessary. down on crime to maintain a safer "I should like to remind people community."

The officers can be contacted on of the story in the March Link about the Crimestoppers hotline. It's not 528111. Crimestoppers is on just for reporting big crimes. Freephone 0800 555 111.

Stop motor-madness. Seepage26 Crimestoppers applies at a local

`Pumper' gets a special send-off from fellow fire firefighters A cavalcade of five fire appliances toured West Swindon on 23 June when firefighters from Westlea, Swindon and Stratton bade a fond farewell to long serving colleague John Payne.

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John and his Wife Brenda, rear, bid farewell to his Work mates, With members of his family, from left, son Neil holding Scarlett, daughter Catherine, grandson Josh, daughter Nicola, grandson Christopher. Back, nephew Stephen French

'Pumper' as he is known throughout the Wiltshire brigade, was given the special, but surprise, accolade of dismissing a parade of firefighters at Westlea station alongside Deputy Chief Fire Officer Phil Appleby after twentythree years of service, before being driven home to a noisy welcome in Silchester Way, Westlea from friends, neighbours and colleagues.

"It will be completely different going to work without Pumper there," said sub-officer Martin Lloyd. "He was always first to help out in any situation, a bloke with

huge experience and knowledge; you could rely on him every time.

John is a great character who will be remembered as an excellent firefighter throughout the brigade. But he is also well known as being a bit slow when it was his round."

Pumper, 55, near to tears as his colleagues drove away, said the send off had left him nearly speechless. "I'll miss the comradeship, the excitement of the job and the mates in the brigade. I've enjoyed every minute. The people I've worked with are mates for life they can buy me a drink anytime they want to."

The Link Magazine • August 2001

3

Are Local Area Panels a costly shambles?

The West Swindon area panel on 5 July at the Link Centre marked the first anniversary since a new system of local democratic accountability was introduced by Swindon Council, to hold meetings in the community and give people a chance to contribute to council decision making.

But a lack of promotion meant "If the council wants to engage an audience facing a panel of uni- whether it really represents best that there were more council offi- people in this way it needs to do dentified councillors working their value. I am sure it is an important cialsthanpublicinattendance,and more to tell everyone why they way through the papers is experiment whichIhopetheywill if people had turned up they would might want to attend in the first unexciting. Even though people improve before the cost outweighs have been put off by confusing place. I understand a large number can raise questions and contrib- the value." procedures, a sound system on the of organisations are sent the ute, the process feels uncomfortArea panel meeting dates and blink and noisy ventilation fans agenda, including us at Age Con- able. venues can be obtained by calling which made it difficult to hear. cern Swindon, but it is often diffi"Given that many hundreds of the Swindon Council committee Jo Osorio, director of Age Con- cult to see the value of actually pounds are spent running each section on 463000. cern Swindon, one of the few there going to the meeting. meeting, in terms of officer and commented critically, "it's unfor"With the best will in the world, councillor expenses, one wonders Some democracy in action tips • Identity councillors and officers tunate that so few people come to with large badges the area panel meetings thatIhave What does £1,000 buy?

• Arrange the seating to reduce attended as a local resident. But Each area panel councillor has been allocated £1,000 to spend annually the confrontational atmosphere it's not surprising given the way on good works in the community, £8,000 in West Swindon wards, • Banish party games between they are presented. £12,000 for North Swindon. Area panels are contemplating what the councillors money can be spent on within strict criteria, i.e. no grants, nothing • Hold meetings in sensibly sized which will incur expenditure in later years. y rooms An ideas? Let The Link know. ' WE COME TO YOU' • Sort out the sound system • Promote the area panel effec* Free collection tively and publicise the agenda & delivery • Drop the £2 charge for the * Servicing & papers before the meeting repairs ^ Swindon is thinking about asking its people whether the town BIKE * No call out charge DOCTOR should become a city after its first bid was denied in favour of Brighton, Inverness and Wolverhampton last December.

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The Government is expected to announce a new competition to create more cities to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee next year.

The Link ran a series of articles in 1999 critical of the city status bid as shambolic and secretive. The Government did not lay down any clear criteria; the award was said to be the Queen's gift.

We took the view that the majority of Swindonians were not clear why the town should become a city, and little effort was made to find out their views, or to involve them in the process.

Our concerns were reinforced when a leaked Home Office document in March 2000 described Swindon's application as 'poorly constructed,' giving 'the impression of a particularly materialistic

town, rather than a rounded community.'

The Evening Advertiser, an eager supporter of the first bid, confirmed on 11 July that it 'was criticised for concentrating on the town's economic success without reflecting its culture and history.'

In February this year we suggested that Swindon's leaders should concern themselves with 'citizenship' rather than 'cityship' and engage the population in a debate as to what being a Swindonian means in the 21st Century. This is needed more than ever.

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

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uklinks4 There are some great resources on the Internet.

But do you know where they are?

e are currently being bombarded with ideas W about community. The government and the local council want to bring local people together again, in the hope that community is the key to a better future. And it is this hope which has prompted me to research community in West Swindon' for my university research project.

As I sat watching the lunchtime soaps last term, I began to wonder

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if life is really like this anywhere.

Are there streets in the real world, where everybody knows everybody else's name? Are there places where best friends really do live next door to one another? Are there people whose lives still focus around a local sense of community?

I don't know all the people in my street, and often community centres and parks are not areas in which all neighbours can meet.

People can actually feel excluded.

But how have we come to this?

West Swindon was specifically designed as a set of cul-de-sacs arranged in small 'village-like' areas, with a village centre and lots of small parks, to encourage people to inter-act with each other.

But this seems a far cry from today's picture.

Is there such a thing as a 'traditional community' or has it been replaced with new arrangements based on interests at a local, national and global level?

It is these questions I hope to answer with my research. I am looking at the small scale sense of community, and want to consider whether it has ever existed in West Swindon. If it did, does it still exist or what has replaced it. Are there different 'modern communities' which are just as important as the traditional kind?

To answer all these questions I need to talk to people of all backgrounds, from all areas of West Swindon about their experiences of community.

Whether you are already part of a formal community group, or an individual who feels detached from the place you live in, or perhaps you have formed informal groups of your own, I would like to hear from you.

I hope to run some discussion groups during September. If you would be interested in taking part, please contact me via The Link, at the address below.

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Can you write a cry?

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Swindon's Town Crier Fred Ferris needs some help to give him a winning c ry.

After three years in the job, his shouts at town ,, crier competitions have not been rated very highly and other criers have suggested he needs to rewrite his material. "I'm getting °. a bit despondent that I'm going to other towns and shouting for Swindon, but not getting the mesFred with Queen Victoria, Mary Ratcliffe, sage across," said Fred. at the Old Town Festival in July "It's not all about volume.

The judges are listening for clarity, 100 word cries on different subinflection and also the meaning of jects, which must start with three the words."

'0 yays' and end with 'God Save If you can help Fred with 75 to the Queen', call him on 721800.

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Fax: (01793) 878189 e: linkmagazine@compuserve.com www.swindonlink.com Editorial:

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TO BOOK ADVERTISING: Call Jenni Fowler on (01793) 872531 Booking deadline: 7 August Printed by Goodhead Print

Editorial copy date for September: 10 August Published: 25 August Copy for Oct ober: 14 S eptember "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 unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

The Link Magazine • August 2001

5

Engineer comes home to work Asa boy John Prothero used to spends hours searching out newts, crayfish and other wildlife and along the banks of Tadpole Brook. Nearly thirty years later he is responsible for channelling the brook, making sure wildlife is protected, and building a culvert for the Wilts and Berks Canal as part of the £14 million contract to build the Northern Orbital Road from Moredon Road to Lady Lane.

Born in 1965, John lived in to create wildlife corridors.

Haydon Wick for his first ten years "As a child I used to visit my before his family moved to grandad in Haydon Wick village Whitworth Road. He attended and the countryside was just bePinehurst Junior School, then yond. Going past the pig farm next Headlands School, where his fato the Manor pub was like explorther taught technical drawing, and ing on the edge of the world. he eventually became head boy.

"It's strange to be constructing a After A' levels John took a demajor project in an area I know so gree in Civil Engineering at Manwell, but we will have done a good chester University then joined job in contributing to the new enEdmund Nuttall in 1987 working vironment for the people who on large constructions, including move to the houses in North Swinthe Great Western Way in Swindon." don, the now demolished NATO of August. We are also putting in command centre at Greenham the housing development access Common, the M25 and the roads and infrastructure to the OPEN EVENING Docklands redevelopment. north of the NOR. Tuesday 14 August from 6.30pm The company sent him to Ghana "Civil engineering is all about Beauty (phone to book - limited places) ^' ds'AromatheraPY for two years in the mid-1990s, as solid foundations and it's hard for • Collagen instant repair therapy Swindon's laser clinic deputy project manager on a new people to imagine the huge amount • Red vein reduction road, which also involved build- of construction there is, much of it maser HaiCflecibva • Glycolic skin resurfacing, excellent ing a hospital and two schools. unseen in underground services for treating acne scarring, ageing, Now responsible for Nuttall like water, electricity and telhyperpigmented skin, address fine projects along the M4 and M5, John ephone cables. The sewers here u g9 ou lines & wrinkles, evens tone and returned to Swindon in 1996 to are probably the deepest in Swinoverall skin re-juvenation. live in Peatmoor with his wife don, and the bridges and tunnels Barbara and three small children. in the area have required huge • Meet Carrie for nail extensions, .•^, hair Describing the progress on the amounts of material to be shifted. nail art and bridal make-up.

NOR, where he has an ever mov"A high percentage of the northCreche, free parking, open late evenings ing workforce of around 200, he ern development is given over to said, "we did not lose any time open space. Very few trees have 01793 825525 over an extremely wet winter and been removed and the plans have Leisure Centre, Grange Drive are on target to complete at the end required us to protect hedgerows

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Imagine a 'diet' based on Medical Research & Scientific Fact that is supported by many Doctors, Nutritionists & Nurses. Imagine a 'diet' that allows you to eat eggs & bacon, as well as a juicy steak dinner and cheese, fruit & vegetables. Sound too good to be true? Well, actually it isn't!!

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effect, that it is literally 'sweeping' the U.K. It has received massive, positive exposure with the BBC!ITV and the National Press as well as leading magazines and now it's coming to SWINDON. This sensibly balanced eating plan, that provides the Vitamins, Nutrients and Fibre that we need, but without the hidden sugars, is the 'brainchild' of a leading pioneer in Health & Nutrition, Professor Brian Peskin.

There are already many success stories close to

home; Friends Damian & Kate O'Brien, Graham & Sue Gill and Nigel & Pip Collins for example, have lost over 16 stone between them!! " We thought middlesuccessful in uncovering aged spread and tiredness the secrets of permanent was something we would weight loss and have to accept, but that is eliminating the 'Yo-Yo' not so", Nigel said. "We

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The Link Magazine • August 2001 a o ^' H Q4 e

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Retiring Oliver Tomkins junior school headteacher Rev Andrew Pagett has described the achievement of the Investor In People award for his school in July as one of the pinnacles of his career.

"I have been in education for took place on 23 July and a tree thirty five years and this is an acco- was planted to mark his retirelade that I am pleased to depart ment at a picnic afterwards.

Andrew is moving on to become with," he said. "The Investor In People for this school recognises the vicar of St Andrew's Church in the efforts of staff working together Paignton, Devon. to create the best environment for learning. Ever since I became a MOBIL deputy many years ago, I've beHAIRDRESSING SING lieved that if you are committed to NEW TO AREA improving your staff, then they Ladies, gents and wriggling children! will be better equipped to look 20 years experience after and teach children.

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

Changing rooms at Oliver Tomkins Special needs children at Oliver Tomkins School now have a new learning centre thanks to the efforts of staff from the Asda store at the West Swindon Centre.

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Working together in Wellington Square, front from left, Jean Kent, Shanna Campbell, Tatum Wallace, Christopher Thomas, Kim Fraser, Audrey Brophy, Jan Kilby, Christine Painter, Lynn Wilson. Middle, Nina Wilson, Tony Atkin, Bert Cuthbert, Chris Inglis, Catisha Ash, acting head Elizabeth Wood. Back right, Jonathan Himple, headteacher Andrew Pagett, Asda store manager Tony Humphries

As part of Asda's "Get involved for Kids" programme, customers and community groups were asked to nominate projects to support local kids who would benefit from practical help. Staff then selected one suggestion before rolling up their sleeves and turning out to make it happen.

They voted overwhelmingly for a request from Oliver Tomkins School who asked for 'a dingy mobile to be turned into an exciting learning centre for special needs children.'

"It was like Changing Rooms comes to Swindon," said events co-ordinator Jan Kilby. "The school decided to use a room in the main building and we only had four days to transform it. The Asda colleagues painted the walls, put up curtains and shelving, installed new furniture and made a comfortable reading corner with beanbags. Friends and family were roped in to help out."

The project was funded by £300

from the Asda Foundation, topped up to £650 by further donations from staff, customers and the school. Mays Carpets donated the floor coverings.

Unlike Changing Rooms there were no nasty surprises or bits of wobbly MDF. "We spent a lot of time with the school working out what their requirements were," said Jan. "The theme of the room is Wellington Square, which is one of their reading schemes. All the helpers signed a mural of the square."

Acting headteacher Elizabeth Wood said she was delighted with the results. "What was the darkest room, full of brown furniture, has been transformed. It's now called The Green House, because of its colour and also to suggest children growing in their love of reading. The mural is fantastic and ties in so well with Wellington Square.

It really brings the books to life; the children are very excited about using it next term."

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Involving years 4, 5 and 6, the end of year musical played to three packed audiences. It was Nicola's first after joining the school in September, and last before taking maternity leave.

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The Lin k Magazine • August 2001

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For further information,

Coffee Stop, the popular group for parents and toddlers in Abbey Meads, has relocated to the new Christ the Servant Church hall at the village centre.

Run by Sheena Price, play worker Becky Templeman and nursery nurse Becky Hendrey, from the NSPCC's North Swindon Family Centre, the Abbey Meads Coffee Stop meets on Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am.

now; there's enough room to run activities for different age groups, and for parents to chat to each other and family centre staff.

"We can welcome any parents who would like to drop by and take part."

The Family Centre will be running a series of play workshops during August, offering arts, crafts, indoor and outdoor games, and lots of fun.

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Sheena Price and play worker Becky Templeman at the Coffee Stop

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The Coffee Stop August school holiday programme 1st Coffee Stop, 9.30am to 11.30am No Coffee Stop. Play workshop for five to 11 year olds, 8th 11am to 3pm. Must be pre-booked on 705810.

15th & 29th No Coffee Stop. Play workshop for five to 11 year olds with parents, loam - 2pm. Must be pre-booked on 705810.

5th Sept and every Wednesday: Coffee Stop, 9.30am to 11.30am.

Family project closes to expand The West Swindon Family & Cornmunity Project at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook will be closed during August for building alterations.

The project, which provides support to families, welfare rights advice and runs courses, is having wheelchair adaptations made and a play room extension built.

Staff will be available on the telephone and two welfare rights advice workers will be running sessions every Wednesday to Au-

gust and early September, 10.30am to 12noon, at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Centre.

"We apologise for the inconvenience over the next few weeks," said project worker Allyson Cardis.

"The alterations will improve the facilities at the house and extend the services we can offer families."

The West Swindon Family & Community Project can be contacted on 871303.

A final sad farewell

IREPLAC

The Shirley family from Toothill said their goodbyes to son Shaun on 17 July when they visited his beloved Manchester United.

The family toured the club's museum with Shaun's urn before spreading his ashes on the edge of the pitch by the north stand, an area always shown on TV. The ceremony took place two days after he would have turned fourteen and six months to the day after he was fatally knocked down on Corton Crescent, between the West Swindon Centre and Westlea.

Sandra Shirley spreads her son's ashes,

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The Link Magazine • August 200 1

Punk rat pack overrun Westlea production

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Fleur and Jawad with teacher Mandy Sturman on the House of Lords terrace, om'erlooked by the London Eye

"'9e°'sgeN111 ` '.totor Cycle News Scooter of he Vear 199], 1998. 2000 KgNy Commended 1999.

Westlea School's end of year musical, on three of the hottest evenings in July, had all 220 children taking a part in the Pied Piper, produced by teacher Jo McComb.

Headteacher Suzanne Seaton She paid tribute to classroom assaid it was one of the most fantas- sistant Suzanne Sheikh who made tic productions ever at the school. costumes for every performer. She wore N morning, d noon, mg his an d weekends to produce incredible Newspaper editors costumes. Sue and her team of showed amazing commitreport from London helpers ment; they really did the children The June Link reported that year proud."

6 children at Westlea School had been commended for their effort in the Times Educational Supplement'newspaper in a day' competition.

Westlea Express contained reports on local and national issues, features and sports reports. Editors Fleur Perry and Jawad AliShah travelled to a reception in the Maintenance free House of Commons on 22 June to UPVC fascia boards represent the school with eighty others, and receive a certificate. cladding & guttering

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

School road safety to be taken seriously Swindon Council has approved a variety of measures to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

These include cycle racks and proficiency courses, and driver warning signs.

Langstone Way outside Westlea School is to be narrowed to provide safe crossing points and will become a 20mph zone, at a cost of £15,000.

Corton Crescent, which children from Westlea have to cross to go swimming at the Link Centre, is to be assessed to become a 20mph zone in the future.

Campaigning Westlea parent Dawn Dolphin, left, said, "it's won"' derful that we've been successful, it's a great end of term present.

Langstone Way will be safer for pedestrians and also drivers."

Dawn wants to see 20mph zones outside every Swindon school where appropriate, and has offered to collect signatures for a petition being raised

by South Swindon MP Julia Drown who visited several West Swindon schools on 23 and 24 July.

11

Avast there in Abbey Meads The pirates arrived in force at the Abbey Meads School summer fete, with a lot of yo, ho, ho's and avast there me hearties on 7 July.

There were many stalls and much throwing of sponges at victims in the stocks. Staff had to run an obstacle course sprayed with high pressure water guns and headteacher Marilyn Brown had a couple of buckets reserved for her.

There was a grand custard pie fight to end.

The day before children brought their pieces of eight into an assembly, dressed in their pirate gear.

Torrential rain after the fete did not dampen the barbeque and disco. Everybody just packed into the large bar tent on the school field. In total the event raised £3,500 for school funds.

Left, Capen Helen Hook Miah with first mate Vince Williams and fancy dress winners Holly Heath and shipmate Jason Smith

Ground breaking fun The Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads, is holding a holiday club again this year, writes Malcolm Trevena.

Following the Scripture Union Groundbreakers Programme for primary age children, the club takes place in the new church building on the mornings of 20 to 25 August.

Children will take part in creative activities, singing, interactive Bible stories, games, drama and competitions.

For details, call Ruth Harris on 701182 or Elaine Trevena on 725312.

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

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Many of the first children at Tregoze School in Grange Park, who appeared the Link photograph first published in October 1991 and reprinted in June returned for another picture at the school fete on 7 July, this time with dozens of others who have since attended, ' present and former teachers.

Matthew Brown, now with ZuTracey Luckett, now 19 and J working with the Royal Bank of rich Life, summed up the thoughts Scotland said it was great to come of many returnees. "We all seem to ^^^•^ J back. "I recognised lots of the peo- be quite well adjusted - relatively J ^ __ class plc who were in my c ss and many speaking." bat l woom IBSJ Si2oG(lP^'SJ of the teachers. Everything seems Steve Menham, the first and only headteacher, said he was pleased to have shrunk though." wS Lorna Thompson's most abid- to see so many former pupils and ing memory of Tregoze was going teachers. "It was a really enjoyable ei-a.tp,-opertij VPJG{LYS on a three day sailing course at day for everybody. Meeting the Coate Water. "I really didn't like youngsters who are now at work getting my head wet when we cap- or university makes me feel quite sized, and I ruined my new train- old."

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

The Swindon Branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution needs an Honorary Secretary.

Could you help?

For details, call Ernie Cuss on 643500

CHIROPODIST Advanced Reflexologist & Kinesiologist

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Home visits without charge or obligation.

Mayor impressed by school council workings The Mayor of Swindon councillor David Cox, wearing his chain 8.r . of office, visited Shaw Ridge School at the end of June to observe youngsters conducting business in their new school council.

Formed in March, after each class elected two representatives in a >' g secret ballot, the council has or ganised several activities including a clothes-recycling collection in aid of the Red Cross and raising money for more playground equipment.

Teacher Jill Edwards said, "they run the meetings entirely by themThe Mayor with chairperson Danielle Scott and her committee selves. The older children help the sel younger ones make notes and all his councillors would be as polite ments from all ages. I'm looking forward to the children visiting topics are discussed back in class." as my committee."

Councillor Cox said, "I was very the Mayor's Parlour and giving Chairperson Danielle Scott said, "the Mayor told me that I ran the impressed by the range of subjects them a tour of the council chammeeting very well and hoped that they cover and the sensible corn- bers."

Dance ends sports month at Salt Way Energy pulsated out of Salt Way School at the end of a month of sporting activity, when tutors from Swindon Dance gave junior children a taste of hip-hop and contemporary dance.

The infants took part in West African dance workshops with Bristol based tutor David Dravie-John playing incredibly loud drums.

Special terms for over 60's.

Left, moving to David's drums, Rowan Jones, left, and Jaya Golding

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Doggy pounds Two local charities are each £500 better off thanks to the efforts of the Spire Dog Club.

Dog trainer Pat Oborn from Shaw said that twenty members and their pets held a sponsored sit and stay to raise £1,000 for the Prospect Hospice and the Wiltshire Air Ambulance.

"The Prospect Hospice is very close to many of us and the Air Ambulance is a vital service giving medical aid when an ambulance can't get through quickly enough. We are very pleased to help these two worthwhile causes."

The club raises money every year and this is the second time these two charities have benefited.

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

Summer holiday shoot the hoop

Players wanted

Swindon Council's lifestyle unit and Swindon Sonics basketball club are running two free basketball courses for 11 to 16 year olds: • Thursday 2 August, 3pm - 5pm, Broadgreen Community Centre, Salisbury Street • Thursday 30 August, 3pm - 5pm, Westbourne Youth Centre To sign up, call Gladys Barr on 512828, gbarr@swindon.gov.uk

Manor Boys FC are looking for players aged 10 years, but under 11 on 31 August, for the coming season. For details, call Morris Backshell on 616818, or go along to training on a Thursday, 6.30pm at Mannington Rec.

Go for a knockout with Prospect The Prospect Hospice needs teams of ten people to take part in an It's a Knockout competition on 18 August at the Croft Centre.

The entry fee is £20 per person, but the Prospect would like to raise a lot more in sponsorship for its twenty-first year celebrations.

To enter, or for details, call the fundraising department on 815142.

Hit the shuttle

All change at Link Centre After four years managing the Link Centre, Allan Richards has moved to the strategic development of schools and leisure catering within Swindon Services.

Taking over is Carole Jamieson who previously aged the Croft Sports Centre.

During his time at Link Centre, Allan oversaw many devel `° A opments including the launch of the hugely successful Active Lifestyle Centre, a new climb ing wall and major refurbish ment to the pool and ice rink.

He said, "I'd like to thank all my colleagues for their support I ' and also for the farewell gift."

ULTIMATE WORKOUTS A workout that has got to be tried!

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Stratton Badminton Club is looking for players for their league teams for the new season starting on 11 August. Call Dave Rogers on 875354.

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Training takes place at Greendown School and home games are played in Lydiard Millicent.

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Weigh-in

Fit vet Link Centre Active Lifestyle Centre instructor Brian Gardner is not growing old gracefully.

He's out there competing to show he's the best and recently won the British mens 45+ 10,000 metres on the hottest day of the year.

In May Brian won the Scottish mens 45+ titles at both five and ten thousand metres.

He trains daily, including two hard sessions at the Link ALC and competes regularly for Swindon Harriers in the British League against athletes half his age.

If you need a bit of fitness inspiration, get on down to the Link ALC and get help from Brian and his collegues. Tel: 445566.

Conley

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Clubs

Work-out Weigh less

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Follow Rosemary's new low-fat eating plan which now includes treats & watch the pounds and inches disappear! * Monday: Noremarsh Junior School, Wootton Bassett, 5.30 & 7pm * Thursday: Saltway School, Middleleaze, 6pm * Thursday: Warneford School, Highwo rt h, 8pm

A Wednesday: Greenmeadow Primary School, Penn Close, 6 to 7.30pm A Wednesday: Abbey Meads Community School. Hugo Drive, 8 to 9.30pm * Call Dawn on (01793) 782639 A Call Tracy on (01672) 841025 Membership fee £6.00 Class fee £4.30 Exercise only £3.30 (no membership)

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16

The Link Magazine • August 2001

Melinda opens new town centre

hildren's Information Service Swindon

parents & carers information point A new service for parents was given the approval of Swindon personality mum Melinda Messenger when she opened the Children's Information Service Swindon walk-in advice point at 13 Market Street, next to the big top market, on 6 July.

Cutting the ribbon, Melinda said .r n Infor .: r.i^er ^, ,eo Sw;ndo parents were sure to welcome the shop.

"As a busy working ''° mum it's great to know you can get information easily. I'm " luckytohavefamil closeby to help with { j child-care, but lots of parents will find the shop a great serv-

13 Market Street, Swindon (by the big top) Tel: (01793) 541786

us or call in & lef us ease your childcare worries Call

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Tel: 01793 848855 Unit 18 Apsley House Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett

I Project manager Annette Palmer said, "we get calls about Come on down: Melinda with the CIS staff; from left, everything which in- Carrie-Marie Tilling, manager Annette Palmer and volves children - NickyBlaydon-Hovell from how to find a child minder to are painted with dolphins, whales summer activities for five to twelve and undersea scenes. Tesco also years olds. We try to answer ques- donated £2,500 towards running tions directly, or we will find out the centre.

"It's great to be able to help and what we can and call back."

First set up as a telephone ad- bring publicity to the Children's vice line in 1999, the service now Information Service," said takes over 500 calls a month and Melinda. "I am committed to helpthe numbers visiting the shop, ing children's charities. But you funded by a £120,000 grant from don't have to be a celebrity to do Swindon Council, is expected to something useful; it's important be high. In a recent survey of 150 for everybody to get involved." similar schemes, Swindon's serv- • Shop hours: 10am to 3pm • Telephone advice on 541786 ice came out in the top six. from 9.30am to 4.30pm The shop has been decorated with seascape themes by staff from • e-mail: cissw@btconnect.com Zurich Financial Services. Walls • www.childcarelink.co.uk

Mum knows best @ www.swindonmum.co.uk When Barbara Prothero moved to Peatmoor five years ago she felt there wasn't enough help for young mums.

Now with three children of her and exchange messages. The site own she has teamed up with long- was over a year in the making and ti me Swindon resident Carole went live in May. It is now getting Shelley and her 16 year old son over 400 hits a week.

"We are really pleased with the Jack to produce a web site specifically aimed at mums in the town. reaction," said Barbara. "People are It provides listings of local ac- leaving messages on the forum and tivities and services, general ad- exchanging information. Do visit vice and information and an on- and give us your ideas for develline forum where mums can meet oping the site."

Tots tumble for charity

Meadowpark School Meadowpark Nursery and Pre-Prep School Calcutt Street 688

Mrs S Hanbury or Mrs R Kular

Tel: 01793 752600

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Cricklade Swindon SN6 Contact

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A Come and see why past and present parents believe we are unique A Registrations being accepted for 2002.

Certain places available for 2001

Swindon's tumble tots took to the jungle this year to raise over £500 for the National Deaf Children's Society.

In early July the class held at the Upper Shaw Farm centre was turned into a rain forest and gym equipment became logs to climb over and rivers to cross. Children wore animal costumes and staff dressed as explorers for the event.

Tumble Tots meet on Thursdays and offers classes for all ages, including gymbabes. For details, call Sue Dobson on 01235 868119.

Tumble Tot youngsters with class leader Tricia Webb, Sue Dobson and Charlie Stoddart dressed as a parrot

The Link Magazine • August 2001

Are you a busy bee?

A long running West Swindon parent and toddler group is looking for new members and organisers.

Busy Bees on Wednesdays, 10am to 11.30am, at the Link Centre has been going

S as rgeo Ki t' s 91 V1pria Road, Old Town 793 421500

era M ,

for sixteen years and

w

Exclusive for girls

O RIGIN AL3 2to13years

Monday Closed Tuesday-Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm ,

the latest

generation of parents is moving on as their children start school. The group runs a weekly craft activity and includes songs and a story.

Organiser Debbie Harris said Busy Bees had been successful because of the atmosphere. "People comment that there are no cliques

ids clothes

galore at prices

Saturday loam - 4.30pm you'll

adore

Stockist for Gait & Orchard Toys

and newcomers are made to feel welcome. However, quite a few of us are moving on and we would like to pass the group on to new mums with pre-school children."

To join in, and perhaps help with organising, call Debbie on 631443.

Take the stress out of the summer holidays With school breaking up for the summer, more families could be in danger of falling apart says Wendy Hall, manager of Swindon's Family Mediation Service.

The service is set up to help parents who find it hard to talk, work out arrangements for children with minimum stress all round. Mediation costs little, but pays off emotionally; it can take the heat out of family life this summer, says Wendy.

For details of how to get help, call 527285

Jewsons deliver for Jelly Tots Builder's merchants Jewsons have come up with the goods for children at Jelly Tots Playgroup in Shaw.

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

Then call

Clothing for children School wear - Toys Top quality children's wear and school uniforms at low prices throughout the year.

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Tumble Tots. We build confidence that lasts a lifetime Tumble Tots is Britain's leading national active play programme. y

Our structured play is specially designed to build our child's self-confidence and self-esteem through: • Developing physical skills of ability, balance and co-ordination • Developing language with action songs and rhymes A unique program for children from crawling to walking giving them a chance to develop skills in a playful atmosphere.

For details of classes, contact Sue Dobson on 01235 868119 The essential activity for young children

SUMMER FUN AT THE BIG ADVENTURE CLUB Swimming Treasure hunts Roller s katin a

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/\ THE

Go cart Farm tca^^

Badminton painting

Water slide

/JBIG The Big Adventure

After settling into their new home at Brook Field School last September, the parent's management committee set themselves the target of adding an outdoor play patio. Fundraising co-ordinator Cherri Matthews drew on her ten years' experience selling newspaper adverts and 'phoned Jewsons at Elgin Industrial Estate. "I am used to cold calling and can be quite persuasive over the phone," said Cherri.

She told manager Andy Ruiz

what was needed and he came up with 100 paving slabs and three tonnes of sand free of charge. He even arranged delivery on a

teacher training day to avoid disruption to classes.

Jewsons account manager Mark Collier who oversaw delivery said, "we couldn't resist Cherri s persuasive technique."

Jelly Tot dads will be putting on their Bob the Builder kit to make the patio during the summer holidays.

10 e 6\s Cookery

Hockey

e S^e ^ Football e Trampolining

Open 8am - 6pm during the school holidays for 4 to 11 year olds For details, call Tracey Bailey on (01793) 875992 Mob: 0797 757 0488

ounck

Cc

/e

K`kes

Ball pond Karoke Nature trails Skateboardin9 Play stations Tea

m

g ames

Disco

18

The Link Magazine • August 2001

Musical adventures

Summertime blues for parish

Children at Moredon Infants School took part in a series of amazing musical workshops with multitalented musician Andrew Warn, followed by a concert when he created an orchestra from his young audience.

The event ended a week of musical activity before the end of term, after the school's choir took part in the infants music festival at the Oasis Leisure Centre in mid-July Pictured with Andrew, from left, year 2 children Naomi Nash, Christopher Rogers, Craig Gash. Front, Veronica Bowen

Summer months bring many pleasures, but for members of Haydon Wick Parish Council they bring with them a perennial headache: an upsurge in vandalism. This year is no different and the council is having to consider taking drastic measures to address it.

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Play areas are the primary target of the few mindless youngsters determined to destroy facilities enjoyed by the many. The Trent Road recreation ground by the Shield and Dagger has suffered as have some of the smaller sites. The main problem area has been the King George V field behind The Fox and Hounds, which is largely hidden from view by trees and where unruly youths have caused damage to equipment and annoyance to local residents.

The Parish Council Recreation Committee has decided to close the field every day at 5pm. Eddie Bedwell, chairman of the committee said, "play equipment is expensive to replace, and, if the damage is unnoticed, can be dangerous. The parish council is seriously reviewing whether to replace equipment. Eventually, there could be nothing left and it will be the younger children who suffer."

Play areas are inspected monthly

by Swindon Services and the recreation committee carries out its own fortnightly survey, but additional help is required.

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"All residents can be on the look out for vandalism" said Eddie.

"Please report incidents to the police on 528111 and damaged equipment to the council clerk, Sue Martin on 722446.

Richard Hailstone, chairman of the council, outlined positive initiatives proposed to benefit youngsters. "The council has agreed to help fund a youth worker at the Haydon Centre on two evenings a week, but we have been unable to appoint a candidate. Anyone interested in this paid post can find out more from Sue Martin."

The council is also working with Haydonleigh School, with a view to creating a kickabout area which would be used by the school during the day and be available for general use in the evenings.

WI on the lookout for new members Summer is always a good time to get out and visit local beauty spots. Members of the Green meadow and Haydon Wick WI will enjoy a day trip to Moretonin-the -Marsh in August.

On 10 September Keith Sandall will be talking about musical instruments and sound and there is a competition for the best four line musical ditty.

The programme during the Autumn includes a harvest supper, a flower demonstration with a Christmas theme, talks on the Queen's bodyguard, modern antiques, yesterday's medicines today and Canadian contrasts.

The WI welcomes visitors and new members to its meetings on the second Monday of each month, 7.30pm at the Haydon Centre in Thames Avenue. Ladies living in Abbey Meads and Taw Hill are especially welcome.

Sly Fox back for the holidays The ever popular Sly Fox Club for 4 to 12 year olds at the Haydon Centre resumes on Thursday 26 July and runs throughout the school holiday from 10am to 4pm.

A wide range of activities will be on offer, including trampolining, football, hockey, arts and craft, treasure hunts, quizzes and bouncy castle.

Call 706666 for further details of session availability and booking.

AT HOME

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

Afriendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS • Stefania Glowka DVM MRCVS Michelle Lindsay BVM&S MRCVS

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.

Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm 9.00am - 4.00pm Saturday

phone Sheila Mitchell further details on 873062

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Thameswood Small Animal Hospital Helping you care more for your pet

Swindon's most modern small animal hospital, situated in North West Swindon, offering high quality surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring, fi•iendly and professional enrironment.

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

Pets At Home could be your answer

THE DROVE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery For all your pets needs when healthy or ill Unit 5 Abbeymeads Village Centre E Elstree Way Abbeymeads ads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am; 3.30pm - 5pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital - Telephone (01793) 522453

19

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Wiltshire Festival: even bigger and better There's just a few weeks left to buy your tickets for this year's big outing -the Wiltshire Festival at Lydiard Park.

The pomp of the Proms takes place at the Classical Extravaganza on Friday 24 August, featuring the English National Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Jae Alexander, with soloists Dennis O'Neill, tenor, and Jeannette Mooney, soprano. This year the band of the Scots Guards

will entertain the revellers enjoying their outdoor banquets and picnics before the main performances.

The Party in the Park on Sunday 26 August has bigger than ever names signed up. Top boy band 5ive star in a li ne-up that includes Atomic Kitten, Kenny Thomas, Dane Bowers, Louise, Caprice, Bewitched, reggae-band Aswad and Go West.

Tickets are on sale at the Link and Oasis leisure centres, the Wyvern Theatre, or from the credit card hotline: Left, revellers at last year's Classical Night.

01285 861395.

Works of Worship on show An exhibition in The Gallery at the National Monuments Record Centre celebrates the skills of medieval craftsmen: the stonemasons, wood carvers and stained glass makers - who have built, crafted and decorated parish churches, cathedrals and monasteries across Britain.

The Gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 1 1 am to 5pm and the exhibition will run until 7 Octooer 2001. Entry is free. The NMRC is located close to STEAM and the Great Western Designer Village.

The Octagonal Lantern at Ely Cathedral built in 1340 and renovated in the 19th

Below, last year's party goers looking forward to seeing Five, above

Courses available at all levels, small informal groups, individual attention, comprehensive manual, certificated.

I. L.A Registered. Training allowance available.

After course guidance and support.

FREE INFORMATION PACK Reiki Master/Teacher. Guild of Complimentary Practitioners F. J. Taylor, (01793) 848940 FREEPHONE 0808 1088545

Reiki treatments available for relief of st ress, pain, dep ression, loss' energy. etc. fjt04@aol.com • www.reikiretreat.co.uk

Jhe Chinese (Experience MEAD WAY, PEATMOOR, WEST SWINDON

Visit this highly recommended restauram besides Peatmoor Lagoon. The authentic Chinese pagoda houses the largest Chinese restaurant in Britain with an extensive a la carte menu specialising in Cantonese, Peking and Szechuan cuisine.

DISCO KARA OKE NIGHTS with Evening Meal & Disco on 31st August, 15th & 29th September, 12th & 27th October, 10th & 30th November

Members £13. Non - members £17

NEW SPECIAL VALUE SET MEAL 2 COURSES £13.50 PER PERSON HOME DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

Tel: 01793 877888 Fax: 01793 873883 www. chinese-experience. co . uk

wirdhn Wide Thinking Art in Haydon

20

LEARN TO DANCE

Youngsters at Haydon Wick School got into the spirit of Swindon 'Think Art' week at the end of June by

S,p,CS,p Start any week at 7pm Monday: Atrium Wednesday: Zu Bar, Shaw Ridge f.f.i. Ritmo Latino: 812177 Walk in - dance out!

spending three days working with Hreod Parkway School artist in residence, Susan Carr, on school decoration projects.

Reception children dipped their former pupils now in year 7

hands in paint to create a hand- at Hreod.

Junior children helped print mural and the infants producedindividualtileswithhelpfrom paint perspex panels which

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Dads make such a pretty picture Freshbrook School was the only one in Swindon to enter the Dad Art competition organised during Think Art fortnight by the Swindon Promotion Group of town centre businesses.

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one hundred dad portraits which were put on display in the Brunel

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Three entries were selected to win t-shirts with the pictures printed on them. From left, Marissa Peach, 5, with her dad Gary. Alexandra Lee, 7; her dad Steve was away on business. Phil Walker and Amanda, 6 Pr.:.

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Can you help a non-fisherman make his daughter happy?

Amanda, above, is convinced she wants to go fishing for her seventh birthday in October. Dad Phil has promised to take her, but knows

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Colour and sound for infants Children at Oliver Tomkins infants school ended term with a lively, colour-

ful creative arts and music week, with visits from a Punjabi storyteller, the Hreod Parkway school band and St Joseph's school orchestra.

Holding upAfrican masks made with the help of Toni Robinson from arts group No Added Sugar, Edward Koppoe and Samantha Coates

Swindon Wide

21

The butler and the bombe Bringing life to Lydiard House is an ongoing adventure, writes Sarah Finch-Crisp. It's well worth discovering this summer holidays.

Each year new exhibits and fur- and ghostly tales are woven into nishings such as family pictures, the history of the St Johns who photographs and mementoes, jew- lived at Lydiard for over 500 years. ellery, carpets, lamps and serv- Audio guides in the house enable ants' bell-pulls come to light. Some visitors to dip into these stories and are rescued through conservation, find out how Swindon Corporation others donated by well-wishers or rescued the ruinous house and purchased with assistance from parkland during World War II. trust funds and charities.

If the painted faces seem a little Behind every face in the por- remote, then Lydiard's uncannily traits which line the walls of realistic figures might make you Lydiard's state rooms is a human jump. Victorian Lord Bolingbroke story. Romance, tragedy, desper- and his family people the state ate sword fights. spiralling debts rooms. Modelled from original photographs they are a real reminder that this house was a home.

You will also see some of the servants whose hard work kept the house running smoothly. Catch Daisy doing the ironing and in August find our butler, at his duties in ) the dining room as he #'r prepares to dissect the mysterious bombe. Mrs Beeton, the famous VicThere is plenty for children to do and see at torian cook would know Lydiard House every day in the summer holi- all about bombes. so days: 'what the butler saw' quizzes, cos- would diners at the St tumed teddy bears to spotandboys'and girls' John dinner table which historic hats to try, like these children from today is loaded with repToothill School, above li ca puddings.

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Join the team that works for you Trading in Swindon since February 1994 Transtaff Ltd is now one of the most successful employers of temporary drivers in the South West. During this period hundreds of drivers have found employment with the town's premier employers via our introduction or are currently fully employed as a Transtaff driver.

All drivers successful in their application immediately qualify for a package that includes holiday entitlement subsidised workwear and statutory sick payments

Current Swindon pay rates Days........................ £7.00 Nights...................... £8.90 O/T & Saturdays ... £10.15 Sundays & Bank Holidays ....... £13.00

TRANSTAFF The Dedicated Driver Ageiey

CURRENT LOCAL DRIVING OPPORTUNITIES ARTIC DRIVERS: • Based at Lydiard Fields, delivery of DIY products to superstores across the South • Based at Dorcan Industrial Estate: Delivery of retail goods in roll cages to outlets across the South & Midlands • Based at South Marston: Shuttle runs of car components from local warehousing to main plant • Based at South Marston: Day and night trunk drivers to main sorting offices across the UK RIGID DRIVERS • Based at Cheney Manor: UK groupage work full pallet deliveries inc. possible nights away • Based at South Marston: Retail deliveries to nationwide stores. Some deliveries to be stripped at site by hand

Call 0500 10 11 0 0 o

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For more information on Transta ff view on www.transta ff .co.uk

Swindon Wide Win a pair of tickets to Joseph The Wyvern Theatre has made a pair of tickets avail-

able to their stage spectacular Joseph and the

Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at 5pm on Sat-

urday 18 August.

Send your name and address to The Link, address page 4, by 9 August.

See page 24 for pe rf ormance details.

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Seedbed for young Spielbergs Swindon's Cre8 Studios is looking for young creatives to take part in an intensive two week programme during August at Greendown Community School in Grange Park.

The summer film school - Burning Ambitions - is aimed at beginners with no previous experience who have a yearning to become a writer,

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Two short films will be produced and screened to professionals from the film and television industry at the end of the course.

Burning Ambitions costs £65, or £45 concessions. For an application form, call 463210.

I

Last time together Britain's best Beatles tribute band, Swindon's own The Ludwig Beatles, return for their fifth and final appearance at The Wyvern on Monday 24 September, 7.30pm.

Formed in 1995, The Ludwigs have played all the major theatres in 1855 * t.;rl,3 ; iS suites today England, toured in Europe and have appeared at major music festivals and National Trust summer concerts. They have performed over 1,000 gigs but sadly they will make their last appearance in Swindon. Tickets at E ll a re ava il ab l e o n 52448 1.

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23

Swindon Wide Antarctic Witness More than 60 original photographs of the 1914 Shackleton Expedition to the South

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To complement our bed selection we stock a full range of pine furniture.

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11 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon • Tel: 01793 520259 Est 1978, in Newport Street since 1982

Thanks to The Link From David Allen, Swindon library services manager and Swindon Festival of Literature committee member

fi

Wow, yet again, a brilliant festival in May and many thanks indeed for

your continued support.

You, above many others, understand the real importance of good. positive communication, and the value of celebrating the success of

The best outing you'll have this summer

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community and cultural life in Swindon.

Our eighth festival has been the most successful yet in terms of public profile, programme and impact on the life of the town. Already, we are looking beyond next year's ninth festival to how we can celebrate the tenth in 2003.

In particular, we are extremely grateful for your moral support, your practical support. your excellent coverage, help with the website, ideas and being the good all round supporter and friend of the festival.

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Contact the Elderly: new Swindon group formed Ann Godfrey, organiser, writes Swindon had its first monthly teaparty for the elderly in July but more drivers and hosts are urgently needed to continue these events.

Imagine what it must be like to sit within four walls without seeing anyone from one week to the next: no family to visit and nothing to look forward to. That is the case for many older folk in Swindon. `Contact the Elderly' is a charity

started 36 years ago. Drivers take

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small groups to a host's home for

Sunday tea once a month, chat with them, enjoy the afternoon, and take them home safely. It's such a simple way of helping to make someone's life brighter, something for them to look forward to.

Help us by giving three hours once a month by being a driver or

a host on just one Sunday a year a downstairs loo and a large teapot is all that is required.

For details, call me on 853236.

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24

Venues The Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 The National Monuments Record Centre, Kemble Drive.

Tel: 414600 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway, Kemble Drive.

Tel: 466655 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios Regent Circus. Tel: 463210 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481

•iui.

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon Tel: 01793 763939 www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Contact venues to confirm date, time and price

Signed off A361. 3 miles NE of Swindon

Music

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Saturday 4th to Saturday 11th August, 7.30pm. also Thurs 9th 3.30pm & Sat 11th 2.30pm Crazy For You The Wyvern Theatre's Summer Youth Project 2001 starring 300 local children. £8.50.

Wyvern

Fairground I Rides

Crazy Family Games

Children's Inflatables [FESTIVALT Adult Mini-digger Excavators

Maze

Puzzles Puzzlles

Children's Theatre & Talent Show

plus all the usual farm attractions

Animals to touch and feed „

A.

• Tractor and trailor rides • Rural crafts for children DAILY DURING • Animal racing AUGUST • Granary tearooms • Countryside treasure hunts 11 ^`r • Indoor & outdoor play areas • Elect ri c children's tractors Adults £4, children over 3 years, £3 Some festival activities cost extra

Monday 6th to Friday 10th; Monday 20th to Friday 24th Summer Painting Weeks. Suitable for beginners or more advanced water-colourists. Materials not included, further information when booking. £60. Arts Centre Tuesdays 7th &14th Mystery Painting Trips. Enjoy a day of painting in a rural location. Mate-

rials not included, further information when booking. £12/day. Arts Centre

Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane, Shaw. Tel: 771080 Summer Holiday Activity Days Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd, 10.30am - 3.30pm Arts and crafts, story walks, games, baking. £12/day, booking essential

Summer Stretch Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th Yoga, massage, Tai chi, African dancing, drumming, shiatsu, Qi gong.

Juggling and Circus Skills Friday 24th to Monday 27th Call for details

Tour Saturday 21st, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monument Record Centre. Free

Gemma Abrams from Freshbrook stars in Crazy For You at the Wyvern

...

Visual Arts Workshops

Monday 10th to Saturday 18th Mon 7.30pm; Tues - Thurs 2.30pm & 7.30pm; Fri & Sat 5pm & 8pm Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. £9.50 - £22.50.

A family run business offering great service and very low prices. If you can find it cheaper, we will beat that price on the spot.

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Wyvern

Wednesday 22nd, 2.30pm Melodytimes. An afternoon of favourite melodies including Glenn Miller Moods, Ravel's Bolero, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, a Flanagan and Allen

sing along. £6. Wyvern Sunday 26th, 7.30pm Elkie Brooks. £14.50-£16.50 Wyvern

Drama Wednesday 1st, 7.30pm The School For Scandal. An open air production of Sheridan's great 18th Century comedy by Rain or Shine Theatre Co, in aid of The Chiliren's Society. £8. Corsham Court To book call 611250

Pentax MZ7 with 28/80 ........... £279.95 DIGITAL CAMERAS Olympus C-990 2.1 mp ........... £338.00 Canon Powershot G1 3.3 mp . £626.00 MEMORY CARDS Compact Flash 32mb ................ £26.50 Compact Flash 64mb ................ £40.00 DEVELOP AND PRINT 24 hour service Any 35mm film 6x4 ..................... £2.99 Any35mm film 5x7 ..................... £4.99

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25

Family events/ children's workshops until Sunday 2 September Build an Engine. Contribute towards the biggest steam engine mosaic in the world. Normal admission charges.

STEAM until 2nd September What the Butler Saw. Help the butler find what the naughty servants have left around the house? For5-11 year olds. £1. Lydiard House until 2nd September Picture Postcards. Follow a trail of old Swindon postcards. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Monday 6th, 1 pm - 9.30pm Lanterns on the Lake for World Peace Day. Lantern- making workshops, 1 pm - 9pm (£1.50), bring an evening picnic, lanterns lit at9.30pm.

Coate Water, organised by Swindon Ranger Service, tel: 771419 Tuesdays 7th, 14th & 21st Shunters Club. Help make a bridge.

Come to one or all sessions. For 610 year olds, Under 8's must be accompanied. Normal admission charges. STEAM Wednesday 8th, 2pm - 4pm Here's one I made earlier What can you make with plastic bottles, egg cartons etc For 5-11 year olds. £2. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, booking advised Mon 13th to Fri 17th, 10am - 4pm Art Week Summer School for 9 to 14 year olds. Art, music and performance workshop with participants preparing a theatre production to be staged at 7pm, Friday 17th. £60, Arts Centre, booking essential

Swindon & Cricklade Railway

Graham McCallion PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO

Wiltshire's only standard gauge heritage railway

Vintage Weekend

WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIAL

11th & 12th August

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.

The Barn, 116 High Street Blunsdon, Swindon The Honda Imps at the Uffington White Horse Show Bank Holiday 26 & 27 August Uffington White Horse Show Arena events, animals. historic vehicles, craft stalls, country pursuits and lots more. The show, now in its 30th year, raises money for local charities and community organisations. £5 adults, £2 pensioners and children, £10 family ticket. For details www.whitehorseshow.co.uk or call 01367 820393.

Fundraising Saturday 4th, 10.30am - 2pm Indoor sale with stalls, fabrics, tombola, books, bric-a-brac, in aid of Good Companions group funds. 10p.

Toothill Community Centre Sunday 26th Boot Sale. Held every last Sunday in the month. Cars £5, vans £7, no need to book. Prospect Hospice, Wroughton

eW e

'w

Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane Swindon. Tel: (01793) 711615

'444

H^Z4 s

Enjoy this creative, relaxing pastime j at our friendly studio. ' ®® No skills are needed; we teach the techniques to achieve a professional result. * Classes for all - day and evening * Children's parties and classes * Painting evenings for you, your friends, clubs and societies * An extensive range of greenware and bisk * Paints, glazes, brushes and all ceramic accessories * Free parking Call in person, or by phone, for further details. Chris and Tina, Unit 40A Okus Trading Estate (near PMH). Tel: 01793 431837

FOUR SEASONS

Exhibitions

Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th, 2pm - 4pm ` ' West Swindon Library Print a T-shirt. For 5-11 year olds. to Friday 10th £4.50. Swindon Museum & Art GalGlass Ceramics by Sue Reynolds lery, booking essential Wednesday 1st to Friday 31st Sunday 19th, 1 pm - 4.30pm Digital Art by Brian Exton Who dunnit? It's the 1930s and a The Gallery, National Monuments murder has taken place. Join costumed characters in solving the clues Record Centre and determining 'Who did it', before Works of Worship the murdererstrikes again. £5/group The works of medieval craftsmen (max 5 in a 9 roue under 8s must be see page 19 accompanied). Lydiard House & Park Wyvern, Lower Foyer 31 July to 26 August Wednesday 22nd, 2pm - 4pm Poster Colour Challenge Paint a Sacred Sites by Anne Radu picture in the beautiful surroundings Figurative and abstract mixed media of Lydiard Park. For 5- 11 year olds. paintings which explore images of £2. Lydiard House, booking advised White Horses and other sacred sites in Wiltshire Saturday 25th Wyvern, Harlequin Bar Meet the Railway Workers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and 27 July to 27 August railway workers to find out about life Adventures in the Dark ...room 'i nside' the Swindon Works. Normal Photography students from New College explore printing techniques: admission charges. STEAM see for yourself what develops Saturday 25 August to Arts Centre Sunday 2 September All the fun of the seaside. Head for 7- 24 August the pier, try out the games, make a Expressions Unlimited souvenir GWR flag and complete the Selection of bold artwork in mixed competition trail. Normal admission media from six artists who meet at The Arts Centre charges. STEAM

DOLLS, DOLLS HOUSES El MINIATURES SHOW Hilton National Hotel Swindon Junction 16, M4, Lydiard Fields

Sunday 19th August 10.00am - 4.00pm nn ;^ ° ni

Admission Adults: £2.50 Seniors: £2.00 Accompanied children: £1.00

26

The Link Magazine • August 2001

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Help stop motor madness says beat officer The great weather in July produced an upsurge of complaints to the police about people riding mopeds, scooters and scramber bikes on footpaths and open spaces near homes.

Freshbrook and Grange Park tain as much information as possicommunity officer Robert Mort- ble before they call. "The probimer is appealing to people to ob- lems will continue over the summer. Help me catch those causing a nuisance by noting the number TimeBank Day in August or the colour of the machine, the This is a national press & media time of day, the routes used and a campaign to promote the idea of description of the rider. It's somegiving your time - commonly times not possible to get to the known as volunteering, writes scene at the time the problem is Sarah Codd of Swindon Volun- occurring, but with better intelliteers. gence, police officers will be able BBC1 is planning abigTimeBank to recognise the bike or the rider." programme Do Us A Favour durHe also wants to emphasise the ing the first week of August. View- importance of good security at all ers will be invited to vote for a times. "If it moves, then it can be celebrity to do a favour in the com- stolen," said Rob. "Make sure the munity. garden gate or garage is locked. If Of course, you don't have to wait you have to leave a bike or moped for TimeBank day to offer your- outside, get a good quality lock self. Swindon Volunteers can help and chain it to something in order you all year round with finding a to deter the thieves." suitable placement, for example: • PMH needs an organ player for Cavies on show its Sunday afternoon services; • West Swindon Townswomens The Wiltshire Guinea Pig Club Guild needs a piano player to ac- holds a show for pet and pure bred company their Wednesday after- guinea pigs on 11 August at Hook noon singing group; Village Hall.

Children are particularly invited • Swindon Council Park Rangers need help at Coate Water for Lan- to show off their pets. Call 497916 by 4 August to register. 'Phone terns on the Lake on 6 August.

For details about these and other also for the help-line, breeders lists and boarding advise for small pets. vacancies contact me on 420557.

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District Guide Commissioner run activities.

Guide leader Debbie Harris said Janet Clarke said that previous helpers do not need any experi- appeals in The Link had been sucence. All the organisation is done cessful. "Two of the three people for you; the girls just need adult who contacted us last time are still help with arts and crafts activities, guiding; I hope we can get as good organising games, cooking and a response this time."

To find out more, call Debbie working towards badges. We need people with enthusiasm for about Harris on 631443.

Chat Room dangers this summer holiday Children could be putting themselves at risk, being unaware of the dangers of using internet chat rooms, writes George McGill, a volunteer with the West Swindon Family and Community Project.

As parents should we allow our 3. Check out the chat room first children to use internet chat rooms and don't allow one-to-one chats without knowing how to protect until you are sure of the person at them from the dark side of these the other end. places? Equally as adults we must 4. Never, under any circumstances, also protect ourselves. should addresses or telephone Chat rooms can be a wonderful numbers be given; this includes source of communication and mobile numbers. learning, almost like the pen pals 5. Never allow your child to meet of old, the problem is that if we try anyone from the chat sessions to keep a check on what is being without an adult being present. said, children would complain 6. Make sure that any chats are about their right to privacy. kept. If you find a chat has been There are some simple rules which deleted then check the others, this should be followed: could be a sign that inappropriate 1. The computer attached to the things are being said. internet should never be placed in Recognising these fears, the West a child's bedroom.

Swindon Family and Community 2. Access to the internet should be Project intends to run internet chat carefully controlled and limited room awareness sessions in the with passwords, using proAutumn. To find out more, congrammes like net Nanny or Cyber tact the project on 871303. patrol.

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Whilst development proceeds apace in North Swindon, some residents are aware of the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and other environmental features and have formed a group to 'adopt' and protect Groundwell Brook and its environs.

The brook rises from springs ping to the Council Hotline on close to Cricklade Road, runs be- 464128.

"If there is sufficient interest in tween Groundwell and Lower Penhill and passes through Abbey EGG we would like to extend our Meads en route to Haydon Wick. involvement into the Groundwell Gryndewylles Facu (Grindwylles Ridge open space," said Marilyn.

Lacu on some OS maps) was prob- For more information, call her on ably dug by ancient Britons or the 331516.

Romans to drain marshland. It Seven Fields walk now forms part of the southern Meanwhile the Seven Fields Naboundary of Blunsdon Parish, but ture Reserve continues to provide its real importance today is the a place for recreation as well as a wildlife corridor it provides. Along haven for wildlife. its upper reaches are two Wilt"It is one of the best wildlife shire Wildlife sites: Groundwell meadows in public ownership in Farm Copse and Groundwell Wiltshire, with an amazing Marsh. Closeby is the Seven Fields biodiversity for an urban site," said Nature Reserve and Penhill Copse. Marilyn. "There are over 200 speThe Environmental Group of cies of wildflowers, trees and Groundwell, or EGG, held its first hedgerow plants and many variemeeting in July and meets again ties of birds, mammals, butterfly, on 1 August at the community cen- hoverfly and sawfly." tre in Chippenham Walk, Penhill, Walks are held on a regular ba7.30pm. All interested are wel- sis around the reserve and are suitcome to attend. able for all levels of fitness, includA first aim of EGG is to keep the ing, weather permitting, wheelbrook free from rubbish. Marilyn chair users.

Beale, a driving force behind the The next takes place on Saturestablishment of the group as well day 4 August, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, as the now thriving Seven Fields starting from the Kennet Avenue Nature Reserve, would like all resi- carpark, when the area's connecdents to keep an eye on these open tions with history and legends will space areas and report any fly tip- be explored.

Going curbside in Greenmeadow & Penhill A trial project to increase waste recycling has been launched for 7,000 homes in Swindon. It includes households in Greenmeadow and Penhill who have been provided with boxes to save newspapers and cans which will be collected fortnightly. Glass is not included because of dangers from breakages.

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Paul Dolphin, Facilities Manager hands occr a LiJeque for £1,200 to Jenny Brett, fundraiser for the Swindon Branch Downs Syndrome Association, with left, Julie Thomas, branch secretary, holding Stephen, 4, and Craig Brett, holding Callum aged 22 months

How much would you pay for the shirt off David Beckham's back?

That's what Jenny Brett, fundraiser for the Swindon Branch Downs Syndrome Association, would like to know.

She has a genuine England shirt to auction and hopes it will raise well over £500. It has a special hologram authentication to show that it is an original and not available through shops.

The successful bid will go towards a Speech and Language Therapy Group run by the Swindon Branch to help children with Downs syndrome improve their speech and comprehension. Without this they can often be excluded from activities that they are otherwise capable of joining in with and enjoying. £11,000 a year is needed to run the group.

A fashion show at Cellular Operations in May raised almost £2,000 thanks to BHS, Tesco and Sargeo Kids of Old Town who donated outfits for children and adults to model. Cellular Operations donated a further £1, 200.

Bids for David Beckham's shirt must be inby 17 August. Call Jenny on 344615 or e-mail her at craig@freshbrook43.freeserve.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

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Head rides off to the south coast After sixteen years in Swindon, Greendown headteacher Ian Matthews has departed to live in Shoreham, East Sussex, where he will be engaged in school inspections, consultation work and part-time teaching.

Looking back to September 1996 when Greendown opened to its first pupils, he said, although much has changed in education, the ethos of care and concern for others was still central to the life of the school.

"Greendown has always been lucky in having excellent, often young, eager staff, committed to ch il dren of all abilities. Over the years our GCSE results have continued to improve, and the school is now one of the best performing in terms of the value added to a child's education.

"My brief was also to establish Greendown as a community school, to make its facilities as widely available as possible. This Hotel on 13 July has been a success; its kept us very Why should a child educated in concerned with what we offer to Swindon be worth £500 less than a West Swindon both in education similar town not far away? for its children and what we offer "I've enjoyed the support of parthe community at large. To an ex- ents and teachers, and hope the tent the extra income from this has children who've passed through insulated the school from the poor the school are making a success of funding situation in Swindon. their lives.

"I look forward to hearing of "The under-funding of education is nothing short of a scandal. Greendown's development."

Places under threat at Tregoze Many parents in Grange Park are concerned by proposals to reduce pupil numbers at Tregoze School and councillors at a recent meeting of the West Area Panel vowed to fight the move.

The school's governing body is Chair of Governors Emily proposing a lower intake of pupils Medland said, "the proposal will from 40 to 30, thus reducing the bring the numbers down to the level the school was Bechance of parents livsigned for and ease the ing outside the desigovercrowding. For exnated catchment to ample, ICT is taught in send their children to a corridor that was the school. „r Tina Neate, from — never intended to be a teaching area. It will Loughborough Close, Grange Park, who, like also enable us to intromany parents made I duce single age classes plans several years ago °^ rather than mixing pu, to send her three year ti„r pils of different year groups in the same old to Tregoze, is horrified that he could be class.

Tina Neate & Callum shut out. "I visited all °Existing pupils and the schools and read their Ofsted their siblings are protected under reports when Callum was two the existing admission rules and years old, and was really im- will still have a place at the school, pressed by Tregoze. I placed him even if they come from outside the in the closest playgroup at school's area. The governors are Greendown so that he could be not recommending any change to with children who would go to the school's catchment area."

Swindon Council is currently that school. If the intake is reduced he stands very little hope of carrying out a consultation before getting a place." making a decision in September.

Parents of children already at If adopted, the change would come the school are unhappy about over- into effect in September 2002. The crowding. It was designed to hold consultation document has been 240 children but temporary class- widely circulated and is available rooms were added to cope with at the West Swindon library. Writhigh initial numbers taking the ca- ten responses must be received by pacity up to 280, placing the hall, 7 September and can be handed in dining area and non-classroom fa- to any council office, including the library. cilities under pressure.

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The Link Magazine • August 2001

North Swindon parents snap up places at Fairford school North Swindon parents, unhappy with the quality of the secondary education in the town, have signed up in large numbers for Farmors School, Fairford, in neighbouring Gloucestershire, and are willing to pay £400 a year to bus their children there.

The May Link exclusively

and small towns, we are a true comprehensive; the children from Swindon will add another dimension to the make-up of Farmors."

Last year the school achieved 65`x, A to C grades at GCSE and a 96% pass rate at A level.

North Swindon parents with younger children are also understood to have registered them at primary schools out-

highlighted the concerns of

Abbey Meads families who had already secured places at Farmors. Applications swelled as a result and 33 children will transfer from North Swindon primary schools in September.

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transferred to Farmors in year 7 in May, ten children in year 8 and 11 in year 9.

In the May edition parent Julie Little explained that the lack of choice of schools in Swindon had forced parents to look further afield. She said that with the promised new North Swindon secondary school not due until 2004 at the earliest, and Hreod Parkway failing its Ofsted report, their concerns had been re-inforced.

Farmors headteacher Ann Stokes said children had travelled from the Cricklade area for many years and she welcomed the intake from North Swindon. "It's very flattering to be seen as a successful school by parents who have made a positive choice to send their children here. Many are attracted by our performance in public examinations and also our sixth form provision.

"As a school serving rural areas

Swindon schools, others within the catchment area of Farmors - so that they can move on to preferred secondary schools.

Swindon education officer Norrie Porter commented, "ideally the education authority would like to see all pupils being taught in schools in their local community. When a significant number of parents living in a particular area send their children elsewhere it can adversely affect the social mix of the school concerned."

He said there could be various reasons for parents to choose

schools outside the immediate vicinity, but acknowledged that the Hreod Parkway Ofsted report may have been a determining factor for some. "An Action Plan jointly produced by the school and Swindon Council has been submitted to the Department for Education and Skills."

He added that building works would take place during the summer break and into the autumn to improve the learning environment.

The school will be fully staffed from September to continue the progress towards reaching the

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The Link Magazine • August 2001 33

Ofsted report highlights good education and effective management

New staff and good test results drive up quality at Hreod

Just 18 months after Abbey Meads community primary school opened, inspectors from Ofsted have commended the work of teachers and pupils.

Following a difficult few months after Hreod Parkway School failed its Ofsted inspection and was put into special measures, the school should be fully staffed when term starts in September and will be celebrating much improved year 9 SAT results.

Their report says that pupils make good progress in many areas of the curriculum and the high "f Assistant proportion of good teaching proheadteacherfor duces effective quality of learning teacher supfor pupils. Children are well cared 7 port Mandy , for and they are well motivated by Clegg, left, and an interesting and varied curricuC training suplum. The report commends port teacher headteacher Marilyn Brown for her Bob Linnegar, effective leadership, and the very third from good links established with parright, with ents and the community. someof the new The report comments that alMarilyn Brown with Mikhaila Stugess, recruits though pupils make good progress Daniel Chew, Gem ma Pock and only the best work is expected of them, the standards attained by Changes at Bradon the time they leave could be imLong serving Bradon Forest teacher Jan Taylor, said farewell at the proved.

Mrs Brown said she was de- end of term after 18 years at the school.

She will continue to be lighted with the first inspection of She will be remembere a magistrate and will her school. "We are very proud of by many children and parspend more time with her the report which acknowledges the ents as the head of lower elderly parents and good progress we have made in a school with responsibility ^ ; young grandchildren. very short period of time. for primary school liaison, 'All the staff have worked tire- and more recently as asShe is pictured with , •• lessly towards the commitment to sistant headteacher for J headteacher Chris Monhigh standards for all, and to cre- student support. tacute who has also left ating an exciting, stimulating and "I've never been a to become head of caring learning environment. We 'housewife' and am lookWootton Bassett School have laid good foundations for ing forward to being at home for a which is being completely rebuilt with completion due next Spring. future growth and development." while," said Jan. --

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he was pleased with the quality of the teachers appointed.

"I am also very pleased that our year 9 Key Stage 3 SAT results will be our highest ever. When published, they will show a ten per cent improvement. These, with our expected GCSE results, will show Hreod has turned a corner."

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Tel: 01793 539923 Mob: 0771 5861409

Hire Quality Marquees The affordable temporary cover Ideal for Parties • BBQ's Christenings • Weddings Celebrate in style

01285 712667

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

J , J/A!

I

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines

• Most leading brands

Twin Tubs. etc.

• Guaranteed

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

Member of

MR-

repairs

• Same day service

No call out charge • No VAT

For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000 '

r^

REPAIRS

A SUDS

CONSERVATORIES

West Wiltshire Windows - Doors Conservatories Quality double glazed windows, doors and conservatories For a free, no obligation quote at your convenience, call 01793 873424 or 07968 355557

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

DECORATOR Ce

e4ise 15 yea1,s

paiaticty auC becomtis y kos es is 14ett Swisios

Offering a high standard of work with references available.

Telephone for a free estimate: 870515 or mobile 07774 - 208527

GARDEN SERVICES

va¢^^ett Exec cae Sews e4

Grass cutting Hedge trimming

SPARES • REPAIRS • SERVICE

• Regular, occasional or one-off • Long grass no problem • Garden vac, leaves etc • Clean, tidy work • Sensible prices • Odd jobs, fencing etc Friendly, 7 day service

YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse or cleaner bag to fridges or vacuum cleaners we offer an efficient & personal se rvice.

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE 11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378

Chris Reed Swindon 538839

PLUMBING & H EATIN

PL UMB ING & HEATING

Lee Orton

Quality Plumbing & Heating

Plumbing & Heating * Central heating * Bathroom and showers * Boiler se rv icing and repairs * All plumbing work undertaken * Reliable service * Corgi registered Tel: 01793 874076

Mobile: 07778 787868

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs (^^ • Replacement boilers • Outside taps =U: • Power showers • Bathroom installations All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

35

SECTOR APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers f3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners

John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed

BUILDING SERVICES

Hillside

Palm Joinery

Building Services

Quality carpentry & joinery for the home/office

Extensions, loft conversions Specialists in all types of building & plastering All work fully insured Contact Dave on 01793 488470

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

GK DECORATORS

Highly experienced painter and

Tel:01793 701394 Mobile: 0790 0216618

decorator All interior and exterior work undertaken

Interior & exterior

painting and decorating Coving • Dado rails

r

Mobile: 07712 749315

GAS RE PAIRS LPG & Natural Gas Services

Dennis Brown Gas Engineer

places • Cookers

29 Meares Drive Shaw, Swindon

• Boiler changes S Also riverboat appliances,

installation & Mobile: 07768 027860 servicing Sponsor to Wroughton

• Aga, Rayburn specialist

No job too big or small

Tel: 01793 721401

Band members wanted

DECORATOR K

EVIN WHE

High Quality Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior CALL 01793

725699

OR 07833 147327

Eighteen year old singer/guitarist from Freshbrook looking to form a band in the Swindon area.

Influences: Oasis, Beatles, Stereophonics, Travis, Coldplay etc. No experience necessary, and don't worry if you're not any good because neither am I. Call Jason on 0771 4637 968.

Garden open Therapeutic Work in Gardening Swindon has a free open day on Sunday 12 August, 10.30am to 3.30pm, at Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor. Visit a wildflower garden, see the polytunnels and workshops. For details call 523294.

ROB HALL HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs, bathroom and power showers All areas of plumbing

Tel: 07989 950070 or

CONTRACTOR

* *

Doors, internal & external Kitchens Skirtings & mouldings Fitted and free-standing wardrobes, bureaus etc Manufacture & fitting Supply & fi t/ fit only

Carnival time in the libra ry Swindon libraries are running lots of fun activities for children during the summer holidays.

A summer reading carnival game designed for three year olds upwards runs between 21 July and 8 September and is free to young readers who want to join in.

Jack Stephen's Magic Show visits West Swindon library on 1 August. Tickets, £1.50, must be bought in advance.

On 24 August, under 5s are invited to take part in free Teddy Bear Fun at West Swindon library.

Full details from the library, or call Robert Cotterill on 463238.

HEATING & PLU MBING

PARE • Boilers • Fires & fire

Tel: 01793 874742

For free estimates call Paul on

* * * *

FOR FREE QUOTATIONS

No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

°M

CARPENTRY/JOINERY

_®_

01793 339546 1zeg 18hO,(

•

Ll

Community

Dividend Scheme A minimum of 1% of the Society's

profits are returned SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds

Home Rental

I UPVC CLADDING I PAUL DRAPER uPVC Fascia, Gutt ering & Cladding CLADDING

FASCIAS

Fast tanning canopies and doubles also available Free installation & local delivery

® GUTTERING

Tel: Swindon 726906

* FREE ESTIMATES *

anytime (Mobile 07778 - 641052)

Tel: (01793) 825965 3 Overton Gardens, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

to projects to benefit the local

community through the Community Dividend Scheme.

Co-op assistant manager Liam Lambert presents a cheque to the Lower Shaw Farm children's project

If you think a project you know of could qualify for a grant of up to £1,000

call 0800 43 5902 for more information Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

^♦t

36

The Link Magazine • August 2001

DECOTEX Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories.

Beauty & Aromatherapist Waxing, facials, manicures, pedicures, massage, lashes, brows Gift vouchers Call Carol on 01793 886876 to book an appointment

Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388 ^.^ Play the Piano

House Cleaners Wanted

£5 per hour cash Cleaning and ironing in local private houses in Swindon Daytime hours to suit

Learn to Sing Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596

Phone Swindon 340437 for further information

For further details contact HomeMaids on Swindon 469552

22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett

C [A L^ I J1_ ])

For Sale

For Sale

Free private for Sale & Wanted ads

I Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea, 12th of the month

Name & Address (not for publication) L- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

/ L

For Sale

Girls bike, age 5-8, Raleigh, vgc, pink, Forever Friends framed nursery picture, £40. Boys bike, age 3-6, Townsend, £3. Forever Friends wall clock, good black. vgc, £20. Tel: 876474 working order, £3. Tel: 638821 Child's red Raleigh bike with stabilisers, Lego system Belville suit girl 6-10 years, suit 3 years +, £15. Tel: 879249 prices £2 -£10. Tel: 638821 Gents racing bike, good cond, £15. Girls Exercise cycle, only used a few times, cycle, suit 7-9 yrs, pink, small tear in seat, £20 ono. Tel: 485247 hence £10. Tel: 631314, after 6pm Boys football boots, size 4, hardly worn, £5. Tel: 347371 Baby bath and top & tail bowl, excel cond, li ght green, £5. Tel: 01285 862513 Ladies Citizen quartz watch leather strap, Car seat. Mothercare, Endeavour, excel £15. Tel: 881739 cond, suit 9 months -4 years, used twice. Watch, Raymond Weil, still under war£60 ono. Tel: 01285 862513 ranty with original card and receipt, offers Mamas & Papas Domani Quattro push- around £200. Tel: 403844 chair from birth, blue/print pattern, hood & Frank Thomas 'Aqua' motorcycle jacket apron, leg rest, forward & backward fac- removable lining, adjustable waist/cuffs, ing, 3 position, vgc, cost £250, sell at £1 10 black and red, 44" - 48", £85. Tel: 881353 ono. Tel: 513704 Selection of good quality modern ladies ELC 3 seater swing frame, as new, inc 2 clothes size 26/28 all as new or vgc. Tel vgc seats, £50. Floral carpet 15x12 It 638353 £30. Tel: 881551 Inline skates (Donnay) size 5, used once, Cot £45. Cot bedding £10. Cot quilt set, £12 ono. Tel: 01285 862513 £9. Baby bath. £4. Inflatable baby swimStatic beauty therapy bed (purchased for ming ring. £9. Tel: 07762 329178 £30 from Swindon College), needs some Highchair, 5 heights, detachable 3 posi- attention. £25. Tel: 879249 tion tray, booster seat, folds flat, £25.

Two massage couches, £30 each, buyer Travelcot/playpen, mesh sides, padded collects. Tel: 640377 mattress, carrybag easy to use, excel Table, solid oak, 60" x 33", closed 11", cond, £25. Tel: 349862 seats six, £30. Tel: 879276 Boys and girls clothes, premature baby to 2 years, excel cond, prices from 1 Op. Oak sideboard, excel cond, carved back, Breast pump, hand operated plus 2 baby h 2' 3", w 6, d 2', 1930s, £250. Tel: 700195 Armchair and footstool, floral print, vgc, cups with lids, £2. Tel: 349862 Slide suitable for age 1.5 - 6 years, £20. Scotchguarded, £20 each. Tel: 706900 Trike £5, Fisher Price car £15, both up to Two seater wicker settee, vgc, £15.

Wicker chair, vgc, £8. Tel: 879249 4 years. Tel: 726975 after 6.30pm 2 Brownie uniforms, 26" chest, age 9. M & S oval bathroom mirror, £10 ono. Tel: £15 each. Sportrider aerobic exerciser. 886487 £75 ovno. Tel: 343204 Single bed and mattress 30" wide, vgc, Pram/pushchair/carrycot,'2-inl-plus'suit- £5. Pine double bed and mattress, £35.

MFI cream dressing table and stool, W:42", able from birth, includes apron, hood and D:17.5", £10. Tel: 879249 cosytoe, £150. Car seat, Mothercare. birth to 10kg (approx 9 months), spare Twin sized sofa bed with storage space, cover, 2 head supports, £10. Tel: 349862 excel cond, £75. Tel: 872852 I- ------------------j

1

J

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency requires Domestic Cleaners & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112

Snatch pink single quilt cover, pillowcase, valance & 54" drop curtains, £5.

Tel: 638821 Myers single bed, metal sprung frame, plastic coated mattress, vgc, £20 ono.

Tel: 727196 Pine headboard for double bed, £30.

Cornflower blue pedal bin, 30 1, £15. Tel: 702595 Cane headboard 4' 6" half round, good condition £10. Mattress 4' 6", pocket sprung, very good quality, excellent condition, £45. Tel: 638353 Reproduction mahogany TV/video cabinet, pull down front, vgc, 65cm width x 50cm deep, £50 ono. Tel: 877341 Vincent's "Pavement Cafe At Night" print in blue frame, 20" x 28", £5. Monet's "Camille au Jardin" print in green frame, 18" x 22", £5. Tel: 879249 Electric fire, coal effect glow, 3 electric bars & convector, black, £35. Tel: 631314 after 6pm Moulinex Masterchef 13 functions, also includes juice extractor and citrus press, unused, boxed, £35. Tel: 872757 Electrolux vacuum cleaner bag or bagless, cost £200 5/98. accept £60. Tel: 877682 Table top freezer, £20. Tel: 612500 LEC fridge, approx 83cm h, 50cm w, 51 cm d, good working order, with manual, £70. Tel: 873724 Hotpoint washing machine in working order, £50 ono. Tel: 702034 Dishwasher, Bosch, 12 place setting, in excel condition, £80. Tel: 724540 Phillips 16" TV teletext, remote control At condition, 8 months old, £140.

Ashcrofts waxed child's wardrobe, with upstand, 3 years old. Tel: 870792 Fridge, Beko, 5cu ft, for under work surface, new, still boxed, £100. Tel: 431368 Stelrad double radiator, as new, 1 100mm x 760mm, £50 ovno. Tel: 724493 Panasonic colour television & video cabinet 25in screen, NICAM, teletext, remote, vgc, can be seen working, £150. Tel: 882868 I mperial manual typewriter, good working order, £4. Tel: 638821 Gameboy, colour aqua, with 3 games, £40. Tel: 876696 Mobile phone, Motorola V50. silver, Simfree, WAP, many features, boxed, brand new. £160. Tel: 886357 Sanyo VCR, VHR274E, remote, manual, box, 2 speed. vgc, £50. Matsui 14" colour TV, remote, £30. Tel: 886357

For Sale Computer/games machine for children £75. Baby dinner chair, £25. Gas heater, £25. Tel: 611686 Flute as new, Gemeinhardt, with case, suit beginner, £249 ono. Tel: 772651 Yamaha Electone organ, double keyboard, stool, pedals, books etc, £195. Tel: 871157 Fishtank Oft with stand, pump, filters etc, £90 ono. Tel: 702171 Two ladders, 16', £100 for both. Brown ceramic top electric cooker, new cond, £150. Tel: 612500 Flymo Multi Trim 200, grass trimmer and edger, vgc, £15. Tel: 727196 Electric lawnmower, £10. Tel: 879249 Qualcast Concorde RE30X, electric, rotary mower, 12" blade, roller, £20. Tel: 349862 Black & Decker lawnmower, electric, £27.

Tel: 07762 329178 Water butt with lid, £10. 2 seater settee and armchair, red/green, excel cond, £60.

Tel: 639255 Caravan Lunar Clubman, 2 berth, lots of extras, owners retiring, excel cond throughout. Tel: 848595 Volvo 340 white, Greg, vgc for age, £650 ono. Tel: 772651

Reward A Raleigh Max Zero-g, 'Y' frame stolen on 5 July from Swindon centre. Blue & yellow with yellow triple clamp front suspension and red rear suspension and several distinguishing features. Reward given upon return. Tel: 0777 3697979

Wanted Wedgwood china, 'Angela' pattern gravy boat and saucer, salt & pepper, anything considered. Tel: 871913 Quality solid dark wood large coffee table, sideboard and occasional table. Pine bed, chest of drawers and bedside cupboards. Small freezer, (pay up to £25).

All must be vgc. Tel: 07762 329178 Boys football boots, size 5/6. Tel: 347371 Cleaning person in Haydon Wick area, 2/ 3 hrs per week, Saturday or Sunday mornings preferred. Tel: 638833 To let

Luxury 2 bed holiday home near seafront, in Seaton, Devon, sleeps 4/5, weekends possible. Tel: 875647 Large single room in Grange Park, short term accepted, 5 days preferred, 7 if necessary. Tel: 872531

The Link Magazine • August 2001 37

LP EYS

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address oct

& 4 by 12tk of tke rtico

Smoking at Sainsburys From C.H. Gait Haydon Wick Recently I decided to have lunch in the Sainsbury's restaurant.

There were 38 people seated in the non-smoking area, some with small children. The entrance to the child friendly part was via the smoking area, forcing parents to run around the perimeter to rescue their little ones. The parents had opted to sit in the non-smoking area and this part of the restaurant was quite crowded.

The remaining space was occupied by three adults, two of whom

Sainsbury'

CARETAKER Urgently required for Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Duties, hours, pay open to discussion Possible option of job share if preferred Please contact Chairwoman Mrs Fran Blissett on 01793 770384 for details

Back in 1972 I played at Ellis Park for England in front of the then world record crowd of 93,000 against the Springboks. It was a memorable win.

There were 84,188 at the Stadium Australia and the atmosphere was absolutely electric. We left Ryde in the northern suburbs of Sydney at 5.15pm with a kind friend Geoff who had managed to secure us tickets for the game and took public transport to Homebush Bay, the location of the massive Olymic complex. Hundreds of Sydney public transport buses were on duty and the efficiency with which the crowd was bussed in was wonderful.

Nearly 15,000 Lions fans were at the stadium - a brilliant piece of design - modern, easy access, with brilliant panoramic views all round.

Fireworks and a national sing-

ing presentation beforehand set the scene. The atmosphere before, during and afterwards was dynamite and every time a try was scored different sections of the crowd erupted. I reverted to my pre-converted rugby playing state on several occasions!

As much as it hurts me to say it, the Wallabies were just about deserved winners - their territorial and possession advantage in the second half swung it their way with the Lions unable to mount or sustain any worthwhile attacking moves. It wasn't a classic but for sheer tension and drama, it was an excellent spectacle. It truly could have gone either way and the final seconds might have witnessed a Lions try (as I predicted), but it wasn't to be. Secretly I was hoping for a draw.

As we left there were Scots playing bag-pipes and singing, Irish dancing reels, the Welsh getting drunk and the Poms looking as Wilts Festival competition winners miserable as ever. The Aussies simClassical Extraganza ply smiled and cheered. The naSharon Thompson, Fenland Close, tion has been so impressed with Middleleaze; Mr HW Fleetwood, the Lions supporters and they have Emmanuel Close, Swindon; Mrs K been congratulated throughout the Hunt, Warbeck Gate, Grange Park, land. What a tonic and wonderful Mrs M Wood, Belsay, Toothill; Mrs difference from the usual stories H Spencer, Canterbury Cl, Lawns of English soccer hooliganism.

Party in the Park Three services at church tomorGemma Hoskins, Lomond Close, row and I daresay a lot of'pommieSparcells; Katie Pucks, Roseberry St; bashing' (even by Christians).

Miss King, Marney Rd, Grange Park; • Lydiard's Aussie vicar-see over K & L McLaughlin, Raven-glass Rd, Westlea; Nikki O'Connor, Worsley Village Show Rd, Freshbrook The Lydiard Village Show will be held in Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall on Saturday 1 September.

Entries to the many classes of produce and handicrafts invited.

Schedules are available from Lydiard Millicent Post Office or call 771116.

`DON

P U N D

Closing date 3 August.

'Phone for job spec. and application form on 422909

wt

COMMUNITY

starting at f 12,000 pa.

British Lions versus The Wallabies: what an experience Rev Peter Knight, vicar of Lydiard Millicent, who spent July in Australia with his wife Ro on a church exchange, predicted in the July Link that the Lions would win the series against the world champions. He was there to witness the deciding game and sent this by e-mail describing the match on 14 July

Website competition Classical: I Price, Loveage Cl, Woodhall Park; G Satchell, Somerdale Cl, Westlea Party: Sandie Dullea, Stanway Close, Park South; Mrs Stuart, Badbury, Wilts

S

Children's Information Service, Swindon Al ti me Information Coordinator

Assistant to the Director 28 hours per week • £ 6.50 per hour

Person with flair, personality & all round secretarial and office administration skills required to support the Director of a very busy Arts Charity Please send your CV with covering letter to Rosa Matheson, Director, Swindon Arts Community Fund Wyvern Theatre, Swindon SNI 1QN Tel: 01793 463 197 e: mail@swindonarts.org.uk www.swindonarts.org.uk

Rec ru ifii ng Now!

ooa

fOc uS

FOCUS ON CARERS AND SELF HELP wishes to recruit Care Assistants

with experience in care, own transport and telephone We are looking for staff who are able to work two or three evenings and/or weekends. Full time work is also available to those willing to work flexible hours.

In return we offer: • generous mileage allowance • regular work in Swindon • holiday pay and pension • ongoing training programme

Telephone: 01793 531133 for application Farepak Mail Order Limited is one of the leading hamper packing companies in the UK. The Christmas packing programme will soon commence at our Westmead site and we now have temporary positions for Warehouse

Packers and Line Feeders.

No experience is necessary for these positions as training will be given, but applicants should be reliable, physically fit and possess good co-ordination skills.

In return they will be rewarded with a competitive rate of pay, attendance allowance and a free hamper at Christmas. Protective clothing will be provided Hours of work are: 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday 8am to 2pm Friday

Farepak Mail Order

38

The Link Magazine • August 2001

Are you over 50, healthy, but a bit forgetful?

Are you over 50 years old?

Do you live in Wiltshire?

Are you in good health?

Are you sometimes forgetful?

If you have answered 'yes to the above questions, you may be eligible to

participate in a clinical trial to assess new treatment for mild memory loss.

We will pay any expenses and monitor your memory on an ongoing basis.

To find out more, call Helen Ca rt wright at The Kingshill Research Centre on 01793 481182.

Sponsored by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust

Family of ministry On Saturday 7 July 2001, Mary erend Barbara Williams was a Thomas of Emerson Close, Ab,, non-stipendiary URC Minister bey Meads, followed a long prior to her retirement. family tradition by becoming '' Her brother, Reverend Mark r=f Williams is a non-stipendiary ordained as a Minister of the United Reformed Church at Anglican Vicar and Pro-Vice Emmanuel URC in Haydon ChancellorofBangorUniversity.

Wick.

Mary, her husband Paul, and Her grandfather, Reverend their children Peter, 7, and Helen, George Wright, was the first 5, are soon to move to Jamaica as Anglican Bishop of Sierra Leone. they have been accepted by the Her father, Reverend John Council for World Mission for Howard Williams, was Provinservice overseas with the United cial Moderator for the Northern Family of reverends, from left John Williams, Church in Jamaica and the Province of the URC prior to his Barbara Williams, MaryThomas,MarkWilliams Cayman Islands. retirement, and her mother Rev-

Church exchange provides new views

NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER CONTACT:

SWINDONSOFtIWATER Q'}

Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water

24 hours a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled\

S-^

Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered. ib

A 2 Z Home Improvements All your needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting. Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry and much more Tel: (01793) 339671 Mobile: (07778) 207977

111 Pinehurst Road Swindon

SWINDON

BC The person who changed

FAMILY CHURCH SUNDAYS 10.30AM THE WINNERS LOUNGE SWINDON TOWN F.C.

AD

History is changing peoples lives Today o y Sp

y vange1^c Worsley Road r?f^^

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m m m G0

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PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENT NOW... WE ARE BACK ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT LINK CENTRE For more information, inclu. midweek activities, call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Iti $

building with people Come and join us

Sunday at loam & 6.30pm For fu rt her information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

Greenmeadow Prima ry School

We are

n4 To Safeway

• B4006 Sunday Worship 10.30am

Sunday School & Creche Pastor Dennis Weaver

LOCAL CHURCHES

here!

North Swindon Baptist Church

-

Australia was much in the news during July, just when Aussie pastor Patrick Collins made an exchange with Lydiard Millicent vicar Rev Peter Knight.

First the Lions stuffed the Wallabies at rugby, then got slaugh4 '" ? tered in the backlash, the Aussie , ` ?' cricketers creamed England, and Patrick Rafter was just shaded by a Croatian who claimed God was on a his side at Wimbledon.

"We had a number of polite conversations about sporting rivalries," said Patrick, who with his wife Sharon, swapped jobs, houses and cars for four weeks with Peter =_=_ and his wife Ro. "We've been warmly welcomed by people in Sharon and Patrick Collins, with the village and West Swindon. The Monkey, who helped Patrick make his weather during the first part of points during sermons our stay was amazing, almost like an Aussie summer. The rain later all over the city," said Patrick. helped us get things in perspec- "There are 100,000 people within tive; it's great to see the garden ten minutes of our church, so its green and flourishing." quite a contrast to work within a Patrick and Sharon come from village and West Swindon. People the Sydney hillside suburb of Ryde, are involved in so many activities; where he is the minister at one of there's a sense of community here. the oldest churches in Australia, The amount of lay ministry going built in 1826. However, keeping on, where people are caring for right up with the times, Patrick others, is very impressive. has masterminded a $3.5 million "I've enjoyed the new experiproject to build a worship centre ence of working with members of with a 400 seater auditorium, 200 an ecumenical church team and seat hall, classrooms and an un- getting to know ministers from derground car park. other denominations, and also "The building will allow us to sharing the trials of being responprovide a more contemporary style sible for maintaining old buildof worship as people attend from ings."

Web: h tt p://nsbc.org.uk TEL: (01793) 345051

All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary 's Lydiard Tregoze - NEW TIME 10:008r ►1 Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church — 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church — 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall. Langstone Way)

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The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Bati,t

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Chur ch of Englind • Methodist

•

United Reformed Church

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Sophisticated Indian cuisine ^ in our award-winning restaurant

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We tried to be different; we became unique!

•

Fully air conditioned

SPECIAL LIMITED I NTRODUCTORY OFFER

••• Modern interior design •

Scenic view

•'• A unique eating experience

I E5OFF I

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1

any meal for j 1 two people or more 1 I with this voucher Only valid Sunday to Thursday 1 Not valid on Takeaways Offer expires 30th August 2001 1 Only one voucher per couple L--- ------J I

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10% DISCOUNT On Deliveries over £15 FREE HOME DELIVERY On all orders over £15 within a 5 mile radius FREE 1.5 Ltr of SOFT DRINK On all orders over £22 FREE POPADOMS With every main course ordered 20% DISCOUNT ON ALL TAKE-AWAYS COLLECTED

LAKESIDE BRASSERIE Roughmoor Village Centre, Peatmoor Lagoon, Swindon Tel: (01793) 887799/882233 Open: Mon to Sun 5pm- 11.30pm

Purton Peatmoor

Lydiard Millicent nt

^^isic% .^insserre at Peatmoor ill age Centr e

^ ti_ti^ti J Nine Elms

Middleleaze

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From Haydon Wick & Abbey Meads Sparc

hinese Experience restaurant

Shaw

Westlea, Freshbrook, Grange Park. Toothill

SWIMMING IN SWINDON

LEARN TO SWIM Over many years our learn-to-swim classes

I

have gained a reputation for quality. Now, they have a new name - Swindon Swim Academy. It's the best place to come to learn to swim. We run weekly classes for children and adults. Contact your local pool

â–ş

for details. windon Swim

Academy With 5 excellent pools to choose from and an exciting range of courses and sessions, we have everything you need for fun, relaxation and fitness. There's bound to be something for you!

Swindon

Services

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