August 2006 Swindon Link

No. 291 August 2006

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the positive news force in Swindon and the Swindon wide what's on guide

Greendown campaign reaches corridors of power

The name for the town's newest seconda ry school. See page 29

Isabella gets together with Isambard A giant effigy, or Gigantona, of Queen Isabella II of Spain from Swindon's twin town Ocotal - as pictured on the July Link front page - was escorted by a giant IK Brunel in the big parade on 15 July to celebrate 200 years since his birth. Pictures on page 24.

The Mayor and two dancers from Ocotal with members of Swindon Ocotal Link

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6 High Street, Purton Tel: 01793 770998/770253 Fax: 01793 770998 A cut out teacher dressed in letters of appeal was presented to Prime Minister Tony Blair in July when a group of pupils from Greendown Community School were given 5 minutes to tell him why the Government should continue doing all it can to ensure every child on the planet receives an education.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

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Pupils push for millennium goal with PM A face to face meeting with the Prime Minister is a rare opportunity, but to also speak with Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown and Secretary of State for International Development Hilary Benn within 45 minutes would make any lobby group envious.

But good fortune and coinci- Blair is a very nice man who dence was with nine Year 9 pupils puts people at their ease. He from Greendown Community really wants young people's School when they made a trip to views, so don't be struck Parliament on 5 July to present dumb when you meet him; ► ' Tony Blair with a life sized card- you need to make every secboard teacher decorated with let- and count."

The Link had the exclusive ±. ters appealing to governments around the world not to lose sight rights to report and take phoof the commitments in 2000 and at tos in Tony Blair's House of the G8 summit in 2005 that by 2015 Commons' office.

The youngsters were kept every child on the planet will be waiting whilst he discusse d receiving an education.

South Swindon MP Anne matters of import with Snelgrove was given the 'teacher' Gordon Brown, who was in June and promised to arrange a surprised to bump into the visit with the PM, when she spoke group in the narrow corridor at the annual conference of the outside the inner sanctum.

United Kingdom One World Link- He briefly chatted about their ing Association (UKOWLA) held mission and posed for a picTony Blair listens to j ii tion put by Sadie Tuttle, with Alyson Greetham, Rob at Greendown. She said, "I was ture.

Jeffries, Hayley Jeffries, Daniel Mountain holding the 'teacher,' Charlotte Hall Tony Blair was friendly very impressed by the concern the children have for global issues and and welcoming to the youngsters, cardboard teacher representing dous reflection on their teachers. how they've taken the 'my friend but obviously winding down after unity and togetherness across the Greendown should be very proud needs a teacher' campaign to their his weekly performance at Prime world. They made statements of them."

Charlotte Hall, who put the first hearts. The school's growing part- Minister's Questions - including a about their concern that every child nership with Moriteng Wa Thutu question from Anne Snelgrove receives an education and asked question to Tony Blair, said, "he is school in South Africa is obviously about Swindon's Churchfields the Government to do more for smaller than I thought he was, but he has a really strong handshake; I having a deep effect on their think- School - whilst mentally prepar- developing countries.

The Prime Minister told the was nearly put off telling him about ing for meetings during the rest of ing." youngsters about the £8.5 billion our campaign."

When preparing for their brief the day.

Jesse Howard said, "Mr Blair discussion with the PM, Anne But the pupils didn't miss a beat commitment to education proSnelgrove encouraged them to and made the most of their 300 grammes in poorer countries. seems to be very concerned about speak out for their cause. "Tony seconds, telling Mr Blair about the "We're doing as much as we can to the development issues; I was imensure other governments are as pressed that he raised the probcommitted as we are to achieving lems of HIV/AIDS affecting the the millennium development goals number of teachers."

Rob Jeffries was glad to meet and I will be making these points again at the forthcoming G8 meet- Hilary Benn. "We invited him to the UKOWLA conference but he ing in Russia.

"We're also very concerned couldn't come so it was great to about tackling HIV / AIDS, because tell him about our school link with so many teachers are dying which South Africa.

"We would like to send some deprives children of education."

The excited group returned to pupils there in two or three years; their meeting room across the road we'll definitely be writing to him from Parliament and bumped into again to see if we can get help."

Teacher Janet Mason, GreenHilary Benn. They were able to quickly tell him about their part- down's head of citizenship, said, nership with Moriteng school in "it was fantastic to meet the three big hitters in the government's inSouth Africa.

Anne Snelgrove said, "the pu- ternational development policy. pils did brilliantly. I've seen adults It's so important that the voice of dry up in front of the PM, but the young people is heard in the highyoungsters spoke out with such est circles and the pupils made the confidence. They delivered a pow- most of the opportunity given to erful message; it was a tremen- them."

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The Link Magazine • August 2006 3

Banging on about the scandal of trade injustice

orrison

Remember Make Poverty History 2005? Did you buy the wrist band, watch the performances and consider what the world leaders were discussing at Gleneagles - tragically interrupted by the 7/7 London bombings? ,, i Muchwaspromtrading blocks of ised, a lot of money the US and Eucommittedoverthe rope prevent the longer term and ' world's poorest some policy adjustfrom getting Serving Swindon _ ments were achiev ^, themselves out of for 90 years ed. But there's a M1 l poverty. Please long way to go be^ keep up the presLegal problems? f. ^`^ fore patterns of sureonyourMPs trade are fundaand on Govern- We have the answers mentally changed mentbycontinu^~ ing the protests." and the poorest naTelephone 526601 tions have anySian Wiltshire ) thing like a level from Abbey playing field to Meads attended _ .a :; 4, _ trade with richer the big drum in countries and the with her two chilbig corporations. _ dren and mum .Esta6[ished over 12 Years Swindon proPam Evans. "I Swindon drum petition organiser Kate Nash with Bishop Lee Rayfield, testers were out in supported the Sian Wiltshire and her children Abi and Lauren and Pam Evans, right ' WE COME TO YOU force on 8 July, in Make Poverty AT HOME OR WORK' advance of the G8 meeting in Rus- unproven policies that have made History campaign and try to buy sia in mid-July, making a big noise them poorer." as much Fair Trade as possible * FREE V at the town's millennium clock as The Bishop of Swindon Lee when we go shopping. By chooso collection & delivery part of Christian Aid's The Beat Rayfield told the crowd that the ing Fair Trade you know the per- r * Servicing & repairs Goes On drumming campaign. It campaign is about interweaving son who grew the food is getting a calls on the UK government to cut the simple and local and the corn- better wage for their work." l WE ALSO SELL Sian helps run the Friendship funding to two international or- plex and global. "Everybody DOCTOR * New cycles ganisations - the World Bank and makes lifestyle choices daily and Cafe at the Church of Christ the * Parts & accessories International Monetary Fund - millions of people are showing that Servant Abbey Meads on Wednesuntil they reform, a difference can be made by choos- day 12.30pm to 2.30pm. Fair Trade In return for loans and debt can- ing Fair Trade goods when they do products are used where possible cellationthebankandtheIMFforce their shopping. A few years ago in the light lunches and snacks. poor countries to open their mar- these items were sold at church kets before they are ready, often stalls; nowadays people are selectwith a devastating impact on poor in Fair Trade at the supermarket people. because they know the producer Organiser Kate Nash from Taw will get a better deal.

Hill said, "in 2005, millions of peo"There is a long way to go - to ple campaigned to make poverty get the message over to more peoClinic history and the government got ple and also to governments the message and made the right aroundtheworld.wee keep IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: noises - but it hasn't delivered. away at this; the iss issues of One year on from the Edinburgh poverty and a fair deal for all can0 Backache, Leg Pain summit we are determined to hold not be ducked." international organisations to acNorth Swindon MP Michael 0 Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain count. The World Bank and IMF Wills said, "this is a critical period are global bullies which force poor in world trade. Agri business and 0 Headache & Migraine d countries to f 011ow amagmg and corporate interests as well the rich

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

Place your free classifieds

Is Swindon getting better?

Gavin Jones has been appointed the new Chief Executive of Swindon Borough Council, stepping up from the deputy position, after a national trawl of candidates to fill the ÂŁ195,000 position. But for all the recent media huffing and puffing about the impressive pay package and the cost of head hunters to get the right person for the job, the basic question: 'is Swindon improving?' has not been addressed.

As Chief Executive his biggest we have to find the right balance Four years ago Audit Commischallenge is to work with council- between making it a good place to sion inspectors rated Swindon lors to change the town of Swin- set up and run business, having a Council as one of England's worst don from an economically success- good transport infrastructure, fifteen local authorities. Upheavful regional centre which is good housing, as well as leisure als in political control and a major wracked with introspection and and cultural facilities, so that Swinshake up of staff, including a lot of lacking in confidence, to a place don is a great place to live and expensive appointments under which is comfortable with success. bring up a family. But I recognise interim chief executive Mike Pitt He recognises that this has to be that within an affluent town there followed, as well as close intervenbased on finding the right balance are areas of deprivation that we tion by Government civil servants. between business achievement, as must respond to, whilst striving Last December the council's perwell as educational aspiration, for better educational results and formance merited two stars and community and cultural develop- achieving sustained improvenowadays instead of Government ments in adult and social care." ment. direction of council affairs, civil Now that the council has got its Gavin said, "whilst there has servants suggest ways to continue been tremendous change within organisational act together, Gavin the improvements.

Gavin Jones casts his eyes on the council and a new sense of sees the next era of change on the But for all the back slapping and future challenges purpose amongst councillors and horizon which is based on altering feel-good atmosphere around council offices at the changes for the bet- anti-social behaviour and the gen- staff, the council has yet to fully the relationship between the counengage the community at large; I cil and the citizen. "The council ter - supported by the enthusiastic eral lack of 'soul' in Swindon. promises to achieve made by the These and many other issues are recognise that people have still to was rightly accused of being too Conservative administration - an on Gavin Jones' leadership plate be convinced about the improve- insular, lacking in clarity, perhaps abiding cynicism still underpins and he acknowledges there is still ments."

"The question we have to a long way to go before Swindon people's view of its council.

In the Spring grants to volun- Council can be recognised as de- ask is 'why can't Swindon be a great town.' It's gone through tary bodies were again under livering the goods. threat, green fields all around He grew up in Purton, joined BT tough times recently but there Swindon are being picked out for locally, has worked in customer is a lot going on to make it housing development whilst large services and marketing within the better for all the population.

"I remember my parents in holes in the ground have appeared travel, transport and telecommuin the town centre where build- nications industries, and joined Purton complaining about the Swindon Council with responsi- westward expansion of Swinings have been demolished.

There are also worries about the bility for corporate change in De- don but it is now a well established part of the town. Buildquality of exam results, the level of cember 2003. ing in the north is based on lessons learned and we will Gavin Jones, promoting the town soon be agreeing Design Codes with Princess Anne at June's for future development to furOur hard working and long serving salesperson Jenni Fowler Corporate Games in Lydiard Park ther improve how expansion leaves Swindon in August to live in Cyprus. should take place. Swindon should arrogant, without purpose or viAdvertising will now be handled from the Swindon Link office be an exemplar of how it can take sion. We're now aiming for better at Basepoint which means a change of telephone number. delivery of services and better place.

Advertising rates and background information about "The town has been identified value for money. the magazine can be found at www.swindonlink.com "Next year we'll be launching a as a hot spot for future regional From Monday 31 July, to discuss advertising with us, growth by Central Government one-stop information service please call the new number: but we are determined that it must where people can get the informabe sustainable, with investment in tion they need and queries anjobs and infrastructure as well as swered through a single call, and we're working on strategies to housing.

"Compared to a few years ago improve leadership at neighbourwhen the council was ranked so hood level so that people can have poorly we are in a much better a greater say in how the council is position to assert our viewpoint run.

Swindon Publications Ltd. ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES "The council has to leave the 'we and negotiate what is right for the 71 Basepoint, Rivermead town with Government and de- know best' attitude behind. There Call The Link on Swindon SN5 7EX velopers. The councillors and my- is no room for arrogance; the local (01793) 602540 Tel: (01793) 608840 self are determined to get what is authority cannot do everything. publisher@swindonlink.com There are times when it has to stand Fax: (01793) 608841 right for Swindon."

September bookings by 7 August Although Swindon Council has back and encourage others such as e: publisher@swindonlink.com "The Link was first published for the West recently adopted a new strapline the voluntary groups and organiswww.swindonlink.com Swindon community in December 1978. 'the UK's best business location,' ers of arts and cultural events to It is completely independent of Link Centre Gavin rejects that the town is just take a lead and work closely with Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle and, in fact, won a competition to name the Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840 leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North about attracting business because them to deliver more for the peohe says the future must be based ple of Swindon."

Swindon commenced in January 1994." on partnerships between organiEditorial copy date for sations and the population September: 7 August The contents of The Link are protected whether it is the New Swindon Published: 26 August by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden Company which is responsible for Copy for October: 9 September unless an advertiser or publisher has town centre regeneration, or local Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and photo- residents' organisations.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006 5

Developers have to find speedway alternative say council Major changes are imminent on St Andrew's Ridge from the A419 almost to Lady Lane.

Work will start next year on the Blunsdon by-pass which will see the Happy Eater restaurant and BP garage swept away and the new road built to the west of the existing road. There will be new junctions and slip roads to allow access from Thamesdown Drive, Tadpole Lane and from Blunsdon village.

Development of a David Lloyd Tennis Centre will soon start between the new road and Motorola. Local councillorJustin Tomlinson welcomed the designated as light industrial emnew leisure facilities. "This is good ployment land with 350 homes, a news for local residents; I'm de- care home and small business lighted that such a wonderful fa- units.

Controversially they are workcility is coming to our area."

On an adjacent site Mitchells & ing with stadium owners Gaming Butlers - which has started build- International to replace it with a ing an Ember Inn on the much smaller venue suitable for dog racfought over site at Ash Brake - has ing but not speedway.

Swindon Robins supporters submitted an application to build a 102 room hotel with restaurant. have reacted with dismay that the To the west of Motorola and site which has hosted top class north of Salzgitter Drive, between speedway for 56 years is under the housing at St Andrew's Ridge threat.

The developers say that people and Abbey Stadium, Thistle Land have dropped a bombshell with a moving to new houses do not want proposal to develop the 35 acres the noise and smell; supporters

Council plans to bin the bags Putting out black sacks on the pavement looks set to be a thing of the past as Swindon Council considers replacing them with wheelie bins following a successful pilot scheme in West Swindon. coun David Wren Every home in the said that Swindon is i borough will be exachieving a recycling pected to sort and rate of 27 per cent recycle glass, cans, this year and he was paper and cardconfident that this board for weekly will be improved collection. Wheelie upon. "We know if . bins for nonwe don't recycle 50 recyclables will be per cent of our waste emptied fortby 2010 we face pennightly. alties from GovernThe council will ment amounting to make special provimore than £3 milsionforpeoplewith lion. disabilities, the eld"Recycling is good erly and people in Warning: overflow bags in flats. wheelies don't get taken away. for the environment but it is good for our Cabinet member How much more could be pocket too." for the environment recycled in this lot?

Prizes for views on waste Swindon Council's waste strategy team wants to know your views on managing the town's rubbish from 2006 to 2020.

They will be explaining options for the long term from a converted refuse collection vehicle parked in the town centre, near the covered market, on Saturday 26 August and Friday 1 September. They will have a questionnaire to fill out which is also available from libraries, leisure centres and council offices. It can be downloaded from: www.swindon.gov.uk/waste Completed surveys will be entered into a draw to win one of two £100 high street shopping vouchers.

Details from the waste strategy team on 466462.

meant falling revenues, at a time when health and safety requirements and maintenance costs are more expensive."

A cross party motion agreed by a full meeting of Swindon Council on 20 July made it clear that the council will not permit a change of land use unless the owners redevelop the stadium or commit to providing another in the town.

Coun Tomlinson said, "Gaming International have a track record of making promises elsewhere to provide alternative stadiums protest that the town would be and not delivering, notably the losing a crucial professional sport. IKEA redevelopment off the M32 Gaming International have in Bristol. We want concrete progiven notice that the Robins licence posals that they will retain Abbey for the stadium will not be renewed Stadium or provide a better refor the 2007 season. But under pres- placement."

He added that Shaw Forest Park sure from Swindon Council and Robins fans, they have offered fi- is not an option for consideration.

The development proposals nancial help for a temporary move to Reading and will work with the were displayed to the public in council to find a new site for speed- Abbey Meads on 25 July, after The Link went to press. way in Swindon.

Gaming International Chief Executive Clarke Osborne, said: For details of the Robins campaign, "speedway is no longer an eco- mail: darylmoody@hotmail.com nomic proposition at Abbey Sta- http://forum.sw:ndon-speedway.co.uk dium. Declining attendances have www.speedway-forum.co.uk/forums

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Lottery bid planned for North Swindon country park

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Dog walkers, cyclists and vandals have discovered Moulden Hill Country Park, but to the majority of people the area close to Taw Hill is unknown.

Berks canal, the SUSTRANS naLow key development by North tional cycle Route 45 and the SwinSwindon builders and the council don & Cricklade Railway. Volunhas been going on for over 10 years teers are already laying track south with thousands of trees planted to Moulden Hill from Blunsdon and a lake already created, but Station. things are about to take off.

The council will find out in AuWith the backing of Swindon gust if the project has clearance to councillors Nick Martin and Justin make a full lottery bid.

Tomlinson, council officers are A council spokesman said depreparing a £12 million lottery bid sign works on the park is starting to the Living Land Marks fund to and this will include full consultaprovide a car park, youth and play tions with residents and commufacilities, including a sports field, nity groups. Work will take about more tree planting, wildflower three years but could be longer if meadows and improved footpaths. the lottery funds a much larger The park is an integral feature of programme of development. the Cricklade Country Way which • Football on Shaw Forest - see incorporates the partly restored page 34.

North Wilts arm of the Wilts &

Narrowboat `cruises' into the centre For the first time in a century a narrowboat was moored at Wharf Green on Canal Walk in the town centre in early July to promote a waterway as a key part of regenerating the town centre. ^..

The canal boat Jubilee was on a but a comprehensive nationwide voyage to highlight feasibility study is canal restoration projects and needed to examine members of the Wilts & Berks Ca- the options." nal Trust and Inland Waterways Right, when the canal Association were on hand to tell panted through the town people about the benefits of bringing the canal back to the town.

Below, it's a dream for Trust chief executive Ken Oliver canal trust chairman Ken said, after initial rejection of the Oliver, left, with trustdiidea, the canal proposal is being rector Peter Smith who looked at again. "We are pleased got involved with canal that Swindon Borough g Council and restoration over 20 years the New Swindon Company are ago taking an opportunity to re-examine how the canal could bring a focus to the re-development of the town centre and help to create an exciting ambience to the proposed scheme. It is disappointing on this 1 occasion that Jubilee has had to make the journey by road. We hope that the next visit of a narrowboat e. will be on the Wilts & Berks Canal."

-Swindon Council leader Rod ^Bluh said the council is keen to explore innovative solutions to regenerating Swindon town centre

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The Link Magazine • August 2006 7

Link Centre flood washes out discussion on its future

Charles Lucas

The deluge on 6 July knocked out crucial equipment in the basement, causing the building to be closed ATE & Marshall for a week, and forcing cancellation of July's West Swindon Forum.

Ironically one of the main topics for discussion was the future of the centre, so that councillors could hear what residents think about We're on ►^^ .^^ih^ ^ __ /^ ► ^i13^ ^ Thecounciliscarryingout ^I ► ♦ \\t _ ► fl V ®A l^11i" ^I► ^ 'd^l11U^^^iIYIIr/ !a. ! ► ► 1I^ =7l ^. a major review of its leisure facilities and one option is to close the building which opened in 1985.

Over the last 2l years Link Centre has become a reFor experienced, practical help cat gional sports centre for ice 1 Swindon 5 11 055 hockey, basketball, swimming and climbing.

But for the majority who use the building - with its library West Swindon councillor Nick community rooms, gym and mall Martin said, "we have excellent n circulation space - it is a key local sportsmen and women in SwinI community centre. Some 800,000 don, but poor training facilities and You drop it off children and adults from across limited capacity for spectators to 2 We sell it on eBay for you the town use the ice rink, swim- watch.

"I and fellow councillors will be mingpool,sportshallandgymfor 3 We send you a cheque recreation sessions as well as visiting more up to date centres Turn your treasures into cash courses each year. The pool is also around the UK to see if we can and let us sell your unwanted heavily used by local primary make better provision." items on eBay for you.

Let Us Auction It Swindon Council leader RodBluh schools.

Any threat to the facilities will was also due to attend the forum to be a major concern to people. If discuss council performance and Swindon Council ever considers town centre regeneration.

Let Us Auction It Ltd, BSS House, Unit 36 closing Link Centre, people will He has agreed to come to the Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2PJ want guarantees that it will be re- next meeting on 11 September. placed with local facilities which • Houses flooded in Westlea for www will be as good or better than what the second time in two years. See [Only items valued at £35 or more can be accepted) they enjoy already. page 8.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

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Calls for solution to Westlea wet spot Houses in Benwell Close were flooded for the second time in less than two years in early July when drains backed up. Quick work by firefighters from as far away as Marlborough prevented homes in Moresby Close on the other side of Westlea Drive again being inundated.

A spokesman for the EnvironNeighbour Isobel Roberts went down then was up again at Now residents want the Environment Agency to come up with agreed that the fire crews had done Sam. "The council said the Envi- ment Agency said, "the flooding ronment Agency was responsible, was the result of very heavy raina fantastic job. answers to the problems.

Closeby in Benwell Close Eileen but they said they couldn't do any- fall over a short period, which left At the September 2004 West Swindon Forum, Swindon Coun- Webster and her partner Doran thing until the water went down. rivers, streams and drains unable cil engineers explained that the Patterson were not so lucky. She The firemen from Marlbor-ough to cope with the volume. Swindon storm on 12 August 2004 was the said the stream rose at 2.45am and were very helpful when they ar- is a large town and there are places rived to pump out the house; it in which we still need to gather worst for 32 years. Six houses in was three inches up the wall and more information before we can Moresby Close and three in the carpets are ruined. assess the level of risk for that area.

Benwell Close - closest to Westlea "I've lived here for 18 years and Then we can decide how and if we brook - were flooded. there were never problems until can reduce flood risk.

On 6 July this year 44mm of rain the 2004 flood. Because of it we "Recent restoration work on the fell in five hours on parched land couldn't get insurance so we'll River Ray has created more flood and the brook filled up in minutes. have to replace the carpets our- storage area than existed before."

Thanks to the vigilance of Moresby He added that the Agency will selves."

Close residentJoy Jansen, firefightA Swindon Council spokesman be carrying out maintenance and ers from Westlea station turned said that the Environment Agency working with the council to idenout to pump water out of garages had taken over Westlea brook in tify more purpose-built flood storbefore it entered houses.

2005, but added that after the prob- age areas to hold excess water.

Joy said, "I get nervous whenlems in 2004 the ever it rains heavily even though "y council cleared ' the council said these events hapaway vegetation pen rarely. We've now had floods . from the stream i . twice in 23 months. The sewers and also widened backed up again and the firemen it in one place as had to pump raw sewage directly s ^' agreed at the foi r into the brook to stop it coming rum meeting. into houses.

"Swindon Council, Thames Water and the Environment Agency `' Andrea, Carla and have to come up with answers to Nathan Hu^nh had prevent this happening pp g again. " P to find another way to Westlea Primary/

Eileen Webster and Doran Patterson contemplating the clean up to be done

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Beat the baby blues in Abbey Meads Mothers feeling down or suffering from depression can find support from a new group which will be launching at Abbey Meads Community Primary School in September.

Roxy said that many mothers everyone is in the same boat."

Community worker Roxy Cox Some pointers for Knowing that it can be difficult prefer meeting in a group to talk said that the group is for mothers identifying depression: informally rather than seeking help to walk into a group, Roxy said she who are feeling isolated or fed up If you're feeling down after after having their baby, but it's not can arrange a link-up with a sup- from professionals. having a baby, you're not alone.

The post-natal support group portive mum to welcome and injust for new mums. "Mothers suf1 in 10 women will experience will meet during term time from fering from depression are often troduce newcomers.

The group is an extension of the 14 September on Thursdays, 1pm some of these symptoms after uneasy at mother and baby groups giving birth: and can be reluctant to let anyone services that have been developed to 2.30pm, in the community room feeling tearful or anxious at Abbey Meads Primary School. know. This group will provide an for new parents in North Swinopportunity to meet others who've don, following the launch of the A creche will be available. A health having low self-esteem been through the same experiences successful breast feeding support visitor and two counsellors from feeling isolated and will be a chance to learn cop- group Breast Mates run by moth- A Time to Talk, the Swindon based feeling irritable and exhausted ers who have taken a training counselling and support service, ing strategies not sleeping well "People who come are not going course under the guidance of local will be on hand to chat. feeling you aren't bonding For details call Roxy on 0796 602 to feel that people are judging them health visitors. with your baby 3636.

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Homeopathy in the spotlight There has been a lot of attention on complementary therapies in the news lately, questioning how effective some treatments are. Homeopathy has had particular scrutiny, writes homeopath Ruth Derham.

Homeopathy has come under at- in having homeopathy is nothing tack due to the inability of con- more than the placebo effect - that ventional trials to 'prove' that it they feel well because they want to believe it works, or because they works.

Certainly, the healing power of are listened to.

So is it all in the mind? Surely the minute doses of medicines used in homeopathy seems to defy ex- this is the wrong way of looking at planation. How can something that any treatment, be it conventional has been diluted to such an extent or complementary. Every treatment has its placebo effect - in have an effect?

It actually has a lot to do with conventional drug making the how this is done. Not only is the name or colour and shape of the substance diluted to make it safe, pill is considered to give the optiit is also vigorously vibrated to mum positive feel. In homeopathy, our pills all release the inherent look the same. power within it.

But, yes, much Many of the remtime is taken to lisedies used by ten to the patient, homeopaths have to recognise patbeen used for centerns in illness and turies as herbal or take a wider conhome remedies for sideration of the incommon ailments. dividual as a perThe problem with son, with stresses, some of them was lifestyle issues, that if given in too food intolerances great a dose they and all sorts of were found to be Ruth Derha n other influences toxic.

With the homeopathic approach, that can contribute to dis-ease.

Physical sensations and aggrawe are able to fully release the potential of these substances with- vations are discussed, feelings are outthatdanger.Thousandsofpeo- vented if necessary. This is an imple in the UK each year chose ho- portant aspect of the homeopathic meopathy because it is a safe and process of treating illness, rather effective treatment. In my practice than simply prescribing a'pill for I treat all types of illness from child- every ill.' If this has a 'placebo' hood conditions such as eczema effect, surely that is a good thing if and asthma, to more painful long it means that patients heal and feel standing conditions such as men- well?

Any GP would tell you that they strual disorders and arthritis, to emotionally crippling conditions would rather their patients were such as depression and grief - with- not on lifelong medication and that out any fear of side effects or drug they had longer to talk with them. dependency. It is the stories of pa- If this can be achieved with the tients like these that are the real appropriate application of completestimony to the true healing ca- mentary therapies, then what have we got to lose by giving it a go? pacity of homeopathy.

There has also been some sug- • Ruth Derham can be contacted gestion that the benefit people find on 772883. See her advert. right.

@ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • August 2006 1

Get an MOT at Man@WWC Does your car get a better deal than you do?

England's World Cup penalty shoot-out against Portugal was enough to get anyone's heart racing whilst Zinedane's head butt into an Italian chest in the finals got right to the point. And after all that beer, takeaways, tears and heartache, this could be a good time for a free MOT at Mantt WWC? It seems that many men look after their car better Spokeswoman for the centre, Lisa Winsbury, hopes than they look after themselves and they should to see more men using the free service. "Men can use know that a little routine maintenance is better than the clinic for any health issues, including sexual waiting for a break down. health. We'd like to see more men being aware of The service at Man@WWC aims to help men take what's on offer. A lot of people still don't know responsibility for their own health and well being. It where we are." includes checking blood pressure and levels of choAlthough the clinic is held at the Well Woman lesterol. Staff also offer advice on lifestyle and diet, Clinic at the Health Hydro, Thursday evenings are give support for anyone trying to give up smoking for men only. and are able to chat about any other issues troubling The drop-in session runs from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. the normally buttoned up bloke.

For more information call 511064.

Marathon run for hospice in prospect The attraction of running the New York marathon for the second time in front of 2 million city dwellers was too great for Link advertiser Les Slinn who will be setting off again in early November to take a bite out of the Big Apple.

He managed to get in on the munity fundraising manager Maggie Gill. ballot and even though he does He said, "everybody who works not need to raise money to guaranat the hospice is doing a fabulous tee his place, Les has committed I job. If I can help make a difference his effort to help Swindon's ProsI to just one person it's worth all the pect Hospice. effort and the time spent doing the He will be running through the training." five boroughs, over five bridges Les is searching for sponsors. and past some of the world's most Call him on 0783 3582788 or mail: famous landmarks in an exhaustlslinn@supanet.com or make a ing challenge. Les recently visited Prospect and was given a tour of Maggie Gill presents Les with the vest donation via the web at: www.justgiving.com/lesslinn the hospice and its gardens bycomhe will wear in New York The local specialist

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Salt Way says farewell as children transfer to Shaw Ridge Swindon Council's aim to close two West Swindon primary schools and reduce the number of places available passed the first hurdle on 19 July when Salt Way Primary in Middleleaze said goodbye to its children and teachers.

Over 70 children will start at Shaw Ridge primary in September whilst the seven teachers who arrived last September will move on to new jobs, or are still looking.

Parents, past pupils and teachers were invited to an end of era party on 6 July to look at photographs of activities, class albums, children's work and press cuttings since the school open in September 1987.

Deputy headteacher Penny Wood, who has retired from teaching, said she had a lot of fun delving into the archives to bring all the material together.

Chairman of governors Steve Spence said it was nice to see children who had moved on to different secondary schools meeting up.

On the school field former puSalt War/ children who are moving on to secondary school and others who are going to Shaw Ridge pils now at Greendown and With the giant S sculphrre which will be sited there Bradon Forest, plus Salt Way chilThe first caretaker Reg Brown- very sad to see the school closing through the ages with help from dren, played a 30-a-side game in ing, who retired in 2003, said, "it's but I've enjoyed meeting up with artist Toni Robinson. Reception the sunshine. former teachers and children who children created a caveman painting whilst Year 5 concentrated on knew me when I was here."

Salt Way to continue as education site Salt Way staff organised fun the modernists.

Everything of educational value was transported to Shaw Ridge at the events for the children during July Headteacher Sue Smith, who end of term to be sorted and used and equipment surplus to require- including trips to theme parks and moves to Aldbourne Primary ments will be offered to other West Swindon primary schools. School a morning 10 pin bowling.

School in September, said a great displays have been left on notice boards so that the new users get the Artists No Added Sugar spent a deal of work had gone into maksense the empty building has a soul and a history before they arrived. week in late June working in school ing the transition between schools Swindon Council and the Swindon Primary Care Trust will be turning to create artworks to be taken to as smooth as possible. "There are the school into a multi-agency childrens services centre with a focus on Shaw Ridge. Children watched mixed feelings about the closing, children with disabilities and complex health needs - bringing together Gordon Dickinson make a giant but we've worked very closely a range of education and health related services, many presently metal sculpture from their ideas, us- with Shaw Ridge to ensure all the located at Victoria Hospital in Old Town which is to redeveloped. These ing Salt Way's red and the blue of children are integrated. They've include speech therapy. occupational therapy. paediatric assessment Shaw Ridge as its primary colours. all met their new teachers and the and also the Koala's special needs playgroup. Discussions with other Indoors children painted a se- majority are confident about the departments about a move to Salt Way are continuing. ries of panels on the theme of art future."

A Sure Start Childrens' Centre to provide support, help and advice to parents in the Shaw/Nine Elms ward and also Grange Park - to Freshbrook to get brand new school complementthe West Swindon Family Centre which serves Freshbrook, Toothill and Westlea - will also be established.

Freshbrook Primary and Windmill Hill Primary Schools are to be Work will take place through the summer holiday to adapt the building combined and a new school will be built on the Freshbrook site. ready for new uses from September.

A unanimous decision was made by the independent School's Organisation Committee on 19 July to agree Swindon Council's proposal that the two schools should be brought together but operate from both sites from September 2007, before transferring into the new building which should be ready in the 2008/09 academic year.

Windmill Hill parents mounted an energetic campaign to retain their school, after the council revealed controversial plans to reduce the number of predicted surplus places at the West Swindon Forum in November 2004.

At the meeting Chris Davison, speaking on behalf of the Windmill Hill parents, appealed to the SOC to consider the high quality of education. the ethos of the school and the potential damage to children's future.

Freshbrook Primary School chair of governors Paul Isles said Freshbrook parents applauded the local authorities bold and exciting proposals which would bring togetherthe best qualities of both schools.

He said a new headteacher and new management team would be needed to heal community divisions and forge a distinct identity.

Afterwards Windmill Hill chairman Tim Poole said although his parents were bitterly disappointed, in the interests of staff and children there will be close cooperation with Freshbrook and the local authority.

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The Link Magazine • August 200 6

High-sci future for Hreod Governors and staff at Hreod Parkway have been celebrating the news that the school has been designated a Specialist College in Science, Mathematics and Computing.

This is a heartening achievement ' for the school which has seen a risg " fir achievement IIY#Iltt^l lNl^ Ian w^ iI„ aat _1 j l^l'11191 „ mgout of special measures in 2002.

As a specialist college it will re'^ ceive significant grant funding 111( —-= i s • ^ ^ _ -= ,.

-j ^;"'^,^ from the Department for Educa`^* - _ tion and Skills topromote the key t ^^ subjects and provide facilities and ^ learning opportunities for the com^+ mtlsi ^t81#s ^l^'

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The spedaliststatusbidwasspon sored by school building contrac tors Equion Ltd, the Medlock Charitable Trust, NEC Computers and Wirebird Ltd who will provide additional facilities for the school.

A partnership with Ridgeway School in Wroughton, already a science specialist college, was included in the bid. This will enable the two schools to share expertise and innovation.

The good news comes as the school prepares to relocate from its decrepit buildings on Akers Way into a brand new facility on an adjacent site which is expected to be ready by Easter 2007.

Headteacher, Andrew Fleet said, "our success means that we can make even better use of the 21st Century building, its new science labs and teaching rooms with the

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I ion and Laing O'Rourke on the site adjacent to the present school Work on the new Hreod Parkway is moving along rapidly. The building features five arms radiating from a covered circular atrium

latest technology and specialist facilities. The new Hreod will be something very different and will include the @Hreod Interactive Technology Centre that will offer tremendous training and learning opportunities forthecommunity."

Picasso for parkway A stunning new piece of artwork created by pupils at Hreod Parkway is ready for installation at the new school next year.

Seven Year 10 and 11 pupils in "the limited number of colours the gifted and talented programme made the overall picture look very met for an hour a week for six Pffpctivp"

The Link Magazine • August 2006 15

@ www , - - " nk.com

Brunel oversees birthday science workshops Scientific investigation was given the spice of competition in mid-July when children from 11 primary schools came together fora two day Swindon Schools' Science Festival at Ridgeway School, Wroughton.

IK Brunel himself, taking a break from his 200 year birthday revelries, welcomed the youngsters who took part in workshops organised by a number of secondary schools to learn about the importance of rainforests, ancient photography and designing a wind powered jet toy.

Cameron Goodge from Brook Field Primary said he enjoyed the rainforest exploration workshop because children could stroke a tarantula. Halene Somal said, "it was very soft and calm; it didn't try to bite at all."

The afternoon sessions were taken up by the children displaying and presenting work prepared over the previous months on the subject of 'Famous Scientists.'

At stake was a £100 voucher for science equipment, but every pupil attending the day received a medal to mark their scientific learning.

To make a big impression on judges, children explored the scientists through rap and dance as well as traditional writing and illustration.

Event organiser Sue Rayner said,

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"our aim is to engage and involve primary school pupils in science, and reinforce links between primary and secondary schools.

"The day was a fantastic opportunity to discover the excitement of learning through experiments and applying practical skills through team work."

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@ the Brain Buzz Summer School throughout August • Prevent the boredom that comes with the summer switch off t • Learn new skills, reinforce and consolidate last year's learning • Informal, flexible and fun - and make new friends • Get set for a great new year with qualified, experienced teachers The programme includes day-time and half-day sessions combining tuition with other activities such as craft-work.

Also 'Exam Elation' sessions - get ahead with Maths GCSE this summer holidays Get ahead, stay ahead

Trophies for turning the tables Students at West Swindon's Kip McGrath Education Centre have become experts at answering rapid fire times tables questions and received trophies to mark their achievement.

A ll maths students at the educa"As an experienced teacher I tion centre begin their session with know how children struggle with a game where they answer multi- some of the more difficult conplication questions against the cepts within maths like fractions clock. Even children attending for and not knowing times tables only English lessons choose to have a makes this worse," said Andrea. go.

"If a child has to constantly try Tutor Andrea Parkinson said to count up to work out a times that many of the students had table fact rather than just recalling worked really hard to reach level it, a maths task becomes so much three of the game but there was more frustrating," she added. nowhere left to go. She decided The tables challenge is open to that it would be good to set them all students, including those atone final challenge. tending the Brain Buzz summer The youngsters worked towards school which would be an ideal being able to answer 30 questions way to boost maths ready for next in one minute — that's one every term. During the holidays, sessions two seconds - and the 18 who suc- lasting 3.5 hours will begin with a ceeded were presented with spe- normal Kip McGrath lesson folcial trophies by councillor Justin lowed by a structured craft activTomlinson. ity.

The usual 80 minute sessions are also available. Call 608708 or see the advert above right for summer school details.

Councillor Justin Tomlinson, left, with David and Andrea Parkinson with award winners

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16 The Link Magazine • August 2006

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Colourful school ready to welcome children

Moving out at Moredon

One of the first things that will strike visitors to Orchid Vale Primary School in Haydon End after it opens in September is the bright primary colours used on the external walls of the building and on the inside.

Debbie Kalynka in the Orchid Vale hall

0

The school hall will feature col- spaces are colour coordinated and oured glass designed by Bruce outside Equion have carefully preWilliams, one of several artists who served a wonderful wild area with have created specially commis- mature trees, a pond and meadow. sioned works for each of the seven It's a beautiful, calm haven within North Swindon schools opening the new urban landscape which is in September 2006 and in 2007. going to be an important part of Orchid Vale headteacher Debbie the curriculum."

Kalynka is looking forward to The school takes its name and moving in. "The school is going to logo from Orchid Morio, the rare be a lovely environment for chil- green winged orchid that flowers dren and staff. All the internal at Clifford Meadow in Oakhurst.

Andrea Hilson, head of Moredon Infants, spent June and July packing for the move to the new school site and preparing for her own move into retirement.

She said that leaving the school after 14 years as head has been a wrench but the move to new premises has helped. "Knowing that ' my' school won't exist makes it a bit easier.

The move into new premised makes it feel like a new start for the schools without me."

The new school will Alit/lea Hilson with James Nash, Jamie Smutek, see infants and juniors coming together under Matthew Connor, Stacey Healey, Jaydon Gibbons the headship of Lauren Connor, presently head of the jun- time of each of the five head teachior school. ers.

Looking back over her career, Mrs Hilson said, "I'm happy to pass the pupils on to Ms Connor. I Mrs Hilson remarked that the years know they'll have a good experi- at Moredon have been the happience in their future years. We share est. She is now looking forward to the same views on a lot of things her retirement and hopes that she'll about what makes the school spe- be doing some packing of a differcial. This has always been a happy ent kind shortly. "I'll take some school with staff and children car- holidays and I'm looking forward to being able to go away during ing for each other."

A time capsule recording the 54 school time."

After that, plans to join Univeryear history of Moredon Infants was buried at the new school site sity of the Third Age, take a writon 14 July by the school council. It ing course, continue to paint and contained samples of items from spend more time in the garden each decade of the school's life and will mean that life is likely to be there is something to represent the busier than ever.

Time capsules buried for the future Items to amaze and delight children in 50 years time have been buried at Moredon Primary School, in advance of its September opening.

Each Key Stage from the infant and junior schools contributed writing, artwork and selected artifacts.

Infants about to bury their enpsulc to be opened when they are in

older

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Visit us online at www.amarctutors.com

Rodbourne Cheney and Moredon Primaries could become Swindon's first federated school.

When the previous head of Rodbourne Cheney left last September. the governors were unable to find a suitable replacement. Now they have proposed forming a federation with Moredon Primary School with new headteacher, Lauren Connor, taking responsibility for both.

Consultation on the federation proposal will take place over the summer and if there are no objections, Ms Connor could be managing the two schools by October.

The Link Magazine • August 2006

@ www.swind

Freshbrook School celebrates There was fun in the sunshine on 15 July when pupils, teachers and parents from the present and past marked Freshbrook Primary School's quarter of a century at a summer fete.

All the traditional stalls, attractions and performances were complemented by a display of photographs looking back over the years with cuttings from The Link archives.

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Anne-Marie Salmon, right, who has been a teacher's assistant since Freshbrook Primary opened, with colleagues Janet Hitting, 22 years, Veryan Hutton, 15, and current children Chanaley Alleyne, Tyler and Bobby Gale

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Pupils sleep their way into the record book Children in Year 5 at Windmill Hill Primary School returned with their sleeping bags on Saturday 17 June, to take part in a double Guinness World Record attempt.

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Sleepover kids looking lively, from left Aiden Lang, Jamee Shorter, Zac Brooks, Jamie Clements, Emma Cairns, Sophie Wood, Stuart Box, Emily Loveridge, Kara Bates. Bottom right, Hannah Mitchell and Lucy Smale

The nationwide fundraising event for Childline involved children spending the night on the floor and then simultaneously brushing their teeth in the morning.

Twenty one children enjoyed a barbeque and games on the school field to burn off some energy before settling down to watch a DVD bedtime story specially created for the eventwhich featured children' s writer, Jacqueline Wilson.

Although the children were in their sleeping bags at 10.30pm, Year 5 teacher Sarah Leighfield slept in the middle of the school hall to make sure that everyone had a quiet night.

Sarah said, "several children found it too difficult to sleep be-

cause of the excitement but everyone had a brilliant time. The Year 4's are already asking if we're going to do a sleepover next year."

Across the country 34,000 people took part in the event, beating the record set last year for the biggest sleepover. They also set a new record for the most people brushing their teeth at the same time in an activity sponsored by Aquafresh. The children used timers to check that they had brushed for the required two minutes.

Big Brother technology was used so that participant numbers could be sent by text to Guinness World Records to allow provisional certificates for both records to be issued the morning after the sleepover.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

18 THE

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Invitations: sole use of 'the little party house'.

Party food, games with prizes, fancy dress, an & craft activities + a balloon and yummy treat for eve ry child. Refreshments for Mums and Dads.

All for £10 per child

yo'

Do you need a professional babysitter?

Local nannies, childminders and

teachers available for evening babysitting in your own home.

Call Emma Fursman for a free information pack or to book an ELF sitter Tel: 01666 861152 elfsitters@tiscali.co.uk www.elfsitters.co.uk All ELFsitters are local authority checked

eadstarts Day Nursery Established 1990 16

1

Delta Business Park. Westlea West Swindon. Tel: 877779 The Children's Centre at Robert le Kyng Westco tt Street. Swindon. Tel: 484934

Headstarts is a fr iendly, `family' nursery offe ri ng a warm, happy and relaxed environment where ever y child benefits from individual attention.

I I

q Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year q Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds - am, pm, school day, all day

q Rea/ value formoney. From £144 per week full time q Funded child-care credits available."

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ICEA1 IN Hto GU UE

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day nursery

Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day worth £40 per week Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds*

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EXPANDING! New extension opens in August Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon ' For children 3 months to five years > Open all year from 7.30am to 6pm

For further information or to arrange a visit, call Alison on 877779 or 484934

A Extensive outdoor play and garden

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> Grant places available For information telephone: 0 1 793 851495

SPECIAL OFFER FREE child care worth £50 with this adve rt * **Rates

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The Link Magazine • August 2006 19

@ www.swindonlink.com

Ride out for Chernobyl kids Chernobyl Childrens Life Line is holding a sponsored bike ride on Sunday 13 August, 10.30am, at Abbey Meads Community Primary School.

The children receive respite care in Swindon with Children up to eight years old are invited to cycle families who lovingly take them into their homes.

1,000 meters. So are parents pushing trikes.

Money raised from the event will help fund chil- Turn up and take part or call Virginia McGiffin for a dren from Belarus who come to Swindon for a break sponsorship form, and also for details about hosting from the constant bombardment of radiation as a children with your family for two weeks next Februresult of the Chernobyl nuclear power station disas- ary.

Call 0775 3662891 or mail: ginmcgiffin@aol.com ter twenty years ago.

Children's Information Service A one-stop shop for

FREE information' O^r^1NFORMq

V_ SWINDON

Why not pop in and see us?

6 - 7 Theatre Square. Swindon

Secrets revealed as children bury coins Learning Curve Day Nursery in Wootton Bassett is expanding, due to popular demand, and is extending its eye-catching curved-roof structure on the edge of the town to accommodate more children and offer better facilities. a young child Jeremy played As tradition dictates coins have in the paddock with his , ;•, d, been added to the foundations for brother. good luck and three children were One day they argued and selected for the task.

Jeremy threw the starting Local builder Jeremy Taylor, in handle from his father's old l f charge of building operations has 'Morris car at his brother. He a particularly strong interest in the missed, but the starting hanjob because he was born in the dle disappeared into the long house on the site, adjacent to the grass and when his father new building. At the ti me needed it some weeks later it Garabrecan, where the nursery is was nowhere to be found. located, was a poultry farm and as When work started on the extension to clear the site Harrison Black, Emma Stratfordsome 40 years later, the startMaslin, Samuel Aughey burying ing handle turned up in a pile good luck at Learning Curve of topsoil and Jeremy was able to present the find to his father for I Father's Day.

I

Party House opens

Tel: 01793 541786 Email: info@cisswindon.co.uk www.cisswindon.co.uk

INFANT MASSAGE Join a well established highly successful 6 week course and learn the art of infant massage.

Courses held locally

Also available: complimentary therapies including mums-to-be massage and hot stone therapy For more details contact Geraldine on 07821 686570

gez@holistictherapy-athome.co.uk

for many happy returns A new party venue in Old Town provides a home from home for traditional children's parties.

Tracey, who works for a large Liam and Tracey Dixon wanted to organise the kind of party where children's toy shop, has noted a the birthday child can be the cen- move back to more traditional toys tre of attention and family and and games which need an adult's input. This is reflected at The Party friends can be part of the fun.

"A lot of parents we spoke to House, where adults are encoursaid that when they go to big in- aged to join in rather than watch door soft play centres, their child from the sidelines.

The whole event is taken care of, disappears and they don't see them for two hours," explained Liam. with no detail overlooked. For only "We wanted to be slightly differ- £10 per child, Liam and Tracey ent so that the party is more per- will organise party food, games with prizes, arts and craft activisonal and solely for that child."

The Little Party House in ties and provide refreshments for Godwin Court, with its simple the grown ups. To round things decor manages to be both child- off, there are adorable gingham friendly and calm at the same time. party bags with not a bit of plastic There are rails of dressing up tat in sight.

Book a party in August and Sepclothes, tables for craft activities, a funky Wendy house, beautiful tember and there's 10 per cent off wooden toys and comfy sofas for the normal price.

The Little Party House opens for the adults. play mornings from Tuesday to Saturday,

9.30am to 11.30am. It's a

Wiltshire's Parent & Child Show 10 th September 2006

Oasis Leisure Centre, Swindon For further information & exhibitor enquiries contact:

info(cr)event-enterprises.co.uk 07901 568572

Well equipped facilities and a superb environ ent nursery and pre-prep school

MEADOWPARK

great reason

for discovering Old Town.

For details contact Liam

on 522100.

Play morning fun at the Little Party House

n

individual care individual learning

• Specialist teachers for Early Years Education • Gentle, experienced, qualified staff dedicated to babies Large separate classrooms for each age group (3 months to 7 years) • Excellent OFSTED inspection report

To request a brochure or to visit, telephone

Swindon 752600

20 The Link Magazine • August 2006

Free

Challenging new playground proving popular

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The Hayden Wick junior councillors try out the new kit

For a week in late June, all lessons and activities at Rodbourne Cheney Primary School were aimed at promoting healthy diet and exercise.

Children recorded how many portions of fruit and vegetables they ate and those who managed to reach the recommended five a day were given certificates. Lunch boxes were under scrutiny and points were awarded according to the number of healthy foods in them. The class with most points at the end of the week won a very special prize, a wooden apple trophy had been carved for the occasion by caretaker, Malcolm Read.

The whole school got moving with a 10 minute workout each day. At the end of the week, a sponsored 'Get Active' event was held with each class choosing one activity. The money raised will go towards buying playground equipment to encourage the children to keep active around the school.

ce

Lift to and from work

A new play area for 101014 year olds opened in Haydon Wick, a week after RoSPA called for more exciting playgrounds, saying they should be 'as safe as necessary, not as safe as possible.'

He had been pleased to hear Equipment at King George V play area was in need of refurbish- from junior councillors that the ment after 15 years of use. The playground is proving popular Parish Council involved its junior with children on their way to and council members in selecting a de- from Hreod School. "We tried to sign which would appeal to an do something for the older children. It's got lots of different acolder age group.

The new equipment, made by a tivities;someareverydifficultsuch French company, cost £50,000 to as climbing. Playgrounds are critiinstall. Parish Council Chair, Rich- cised for not being challenging and Hailstone, said "it's a bit dif- enough, so they're not used."

Junior Parish Council chairman ferent to things you see in this Matt Cannon, 13, said, "we wanted country." an interesting park for a wide age group that was different from all It others in the area. We r thought about safety as well as giving chilnsomething excitdren \ ing to use."

Simon Dobbs, 13, said he hoped the L equipment would not f be mistreated. "A lot x f J of money has been spent on an exciting place for children. It will be really ti ght on people who want to : Tgt use it if it gets vandal-

An apple from the teacher

qo

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Malcolm Read with the apple he made for the healthiest class at Rodbourne Cheney

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21

I Swindon & Cricklade Railway VINTAGE TRANSPORT

WEEKEND Saturday

12th August

THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S OI i i AND AROUND SWINDON

and Sunday 13th August 10.30am - 5pm

Best ever Mela promised for Saturday 29 July

IVOR THE TALKING ENGINE

Although beset with sponsorship uncertainty at the beginning of the year, the problems have been overcome with help from Intel UK. the Army, Wiltshire Police and the Swindon Cultural Partnership and organisers of the fourth Swindon Mela are looking forward to an even bigger and better event than in previous years.

Taking place in Town Gardens in Old Town, the day will see fantastic colour musical acts from the touring scene and local talent on show.

Among a host of stars appearing are international pop sensation, Ragha y . the biggest name in world-wide Bhangra, Jazzy B. legendary Pakistani folk singer Arif Lohar and Indian brass band and Mela favourites, Bombay Baja, be%w.

A delicious variety of Indian food will be on sale as well as ^.

Master Mela cake maker, stalls selling jewellery, clothes, Melba Sheffield from West/ea accessories, musical instruments and arts and crafts. A stun- and cooking workshops will also ning fashion show, Bollywood feature. dance and traditional Indian folk A health zone will see a range of dance, plus demonstration areas complimentary therapists offer al-

Britt flies in for a spell Swedish beauty. Britt Ekland will be working her magic as the fairy godmother in Cinderella at the Wyvern Theatre this winter.

Makingaflying visit from Sweden, Britt met up with fellow cast members. including a pair of beautiful Luckens ponies.

The star, famous for roles in Man with the Go/den Gun and Get Carter said, "about And you wi//go to the ball - every night for a month. Britt t wenty years casts her spell over Cinderella Lucy Sinc/air at the panto ago I wanted to launch at Lydiard House in early July return to the theatre but I couldn't do it: panto- joyed their visit to the theatre."

Although her Wyvern persona mime was a great way of overcomwon't be too involved in the knockaing stage fright."

Her appearance in Cinderella will bout parts. Brit enjoys seeing the be the twelfth. Having played a audience join in. "The fairy godrange of fairy godmothers, fairies mother in Cinderella is the story and wicked witches, Britt obviously teller linking the scenes together. enjoys this peculiarly British tradi- so there isn't a lot of spontaneous ti on. "I love everything about pan- interaction with the audience. But tomime. It's a great feeling to be the joy of pantomime is how the entertaining so many people and audience takes part in the show; knowing they will have really en- leave it to the others."

ternative Eastern therapies, whilst Intel will be showing off state of the art computer technology.

Chair of the Mela organising committee Rizvana Sheikh said, "we're delighted this year's Mela is going ahead. Several local organisations and businesses saw the potential of being involved with this nationally acclaimed event and we are very pleased to have them aboard.

This year's event promises to be the best yet with a strong line up of international stars, a huge wealth of local talent, as well as many other attractions."

Saturday 26th August* Sunday 27th August & Monday 28th August *On Saturday Ivor will be static at Hayes Knoll for footplate visits, Train service will be diesel hauled Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane

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22

Swindon Wide

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NAWAB'S The West's No 1 fabric store New stock now in • Bridal fabrics • Velvet • Stretch fabrics • Calico • Fire-resistant fabric • Fleece • and hab, ashery Monday to Saturday 1 Oam to 4pm 25 Tennyson Street SWINDON

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Be bold, be bright, Bea-Vintage A range of quirky tee-shirts, launched by Swindon designer Bianca Jones, is guaranteed to revitalise your wardrobe in more ways than one.

Items in the BeaVintage range are hand made and follow fashion trends with a unique slant.

But, for something even more unu-

sual, Bea-Dynamic items are one-offs made from two or more pieces of customers' cast-off clothing.

Bianca, right. explained that she's °^= developed a new angle on recycling, !—' by taking apart old --_._— -clothes and transforming them into a completely new garment. "I could School just round the corner from make denim jeans into a top and the design studio she has set up in mix maybe a blouse or a skirt with her Haydon End home. With years it. Fashion today is disposable: peo- of fashion experience, both as a ple buy something and only wear it designer and as a visual manager for River Island, Bianca has an eye once so I'm putting them to use."

The Vintage range is made from for current trends. As well as keepnew, 100% cotton. This summer's ing track of the high street looks. collection falls into three themes: Bianca draws her inspiration from the red, white and blues of Ship music and the arts. In a Jason Shape, a classic Monochrome Pollock inspired design, she threw range and the vibrant Boldly Go. fabric scraps onto a t-shirt and Tee-shirt dresses have been sell- stitched them where they fell.

The designs really do have to be ing very well with an off the shoulder red and white striped dress seen. Call her 725760 for details or emerging as the best seller. see: www.bea-vintage.com Bianca attended Hreod Parkway

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An Oakhurst resident who has just completed the University of Bath in Swindon's Women into Enterprise Scheme has won top prize in a local competition for businesswomen.

Caroline Waldron, right, from ^' h.' '" Oakhurst, received the Swindon Businesswomen's Breakfast Club ^• Make it Happen Award in July for her new company The Sparkly Prin `; cess, which makes bespoke spe i^t"=;^t cial-occasion jewellery, including wedding tiaras, prom jewellery and ,.

party wands.

Caroline advertised a wedding fayre she organised in the May Link.

Laura Campbell from Shaw,

-

i.^3'

who advertises her complemen-

tary therapy and beauty business Hands of Thyme was a runner up.

Caroline's £500 prize will fund a course to enable her to expand her range of tiaras to

mates was invaluable. Now I have the best of both worlds: I have my

include new designs with set stones.

She first started her business to fit in with the needs of her young

own money, but I can still pick up my children from school."

The scheme run by the University's Business Hub is entirely free

silversmithing

couragement from tutors and class-

family and avoid paying out earn-

and includes a creche. New par-

ings on childcare care costs. The Women into Enterprise scheme increased her business confidence and gave Caroline the drive and focus to succeed. She said the advice, words of wisdom and en-

ticipants are invited to join from September. For details call Kirsty Lovell on 328770. www.swindonwomen.co.uk www.thesparklyprincess.co.uk www.handsofthyme.co.uk

Swindon New doll in the house A portrait hanging on the walls of Lydiard House has been given a 3D creation in the shape of a doll.

Made by Barbara Boyle, a member of the Upper Thames National Association for Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS). the doll is modelled on the portrait of George Richard, 3rd Viscount Bolingbroke, as a child that was painted by his mother. the society artist. Lady Diana Spencer.

Caroline Allington, Curator of Lydiard House said, "the doll is a beautiful recreation of one which might have been made in the 18th Century. We are ex-

Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds

under new Musical Director Clive Compson, welcomes new players, in pa rticular cornetists, at their practice nights Wednesday 8pm to 10pm in the United Reformed Church, Wood Street, Wootton Bassett.

Parking available closeby.

The Band plays a wide variety of music and is developing towards competition standard in the near future.

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THE

NADFAS branch president Dodo flaw/logs holds up the doll ib front of the 3rd Viscount's Barbara Boyle for her portrait, top, and Lady Diana. lower right work. The doll is a lovely addition to the display in the blue group of volunteers are currently dressing room, close to a pastel transcribing Lydiard documents. portrait of Lady Diana Spencer."

Volunteers from the Upper At Lydiard in August Thames NADFAS have been ac- The Railway Children. Open air tively involved in a number of theatre production in front of the projects with Lydiard House over house. Details on page 26.

From the silver screen. An exhibition of costumes from recent fil ms. Details on page 27.

Lydiard hosts equestrian extravaganza Spirit of the Horse - Chimera, Europe's largest equestrian touring theatre show, sets up camp in Lydiard Park from 17 to 20 August.

Thirty horses from nine countries and dancers come together in stunning choreographed routines with state of the art lighting and sound in a magnificent 2,000 seat tented theatre.

This truly world-class show will appeal to everyone — and not just those mad on horses.

The breathtaking 2006 production features a gigantic monster from the classic legend of Chimera. The tale is told in a spectacular fashion, with action, humour, poetic motion, and aweinspiring lighting effects. It celebrates the bonding of man with his most trusted ally: the horse.

Dare-devil stunt riders from Mongolia will be joining the show to make their first UK appearance.

The Stunt Riders of Eshimbekovy are acclaimed as one of the world's greatest trick riding troupes; their colourful, daring and high-speed act is an amazing demonstration of trust between horse and rider.

Audiences will be on the edge of

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23

Wide

their seats as the mounts gallop at speeds of up to 25 miles an hour.

Making a welcome return is one of Spirit of the Horse's most popular equestrian stars, Pegasus the winged horse. This gentle and astounding fantasy horse has a wingspan of more than 20 feet and is stunningly beautiful.

The packed show also features performances from graceful and elegant Arabian stallions and the stunning Spanish Cappell Perez riders. There will be demonstrations of skills such as juggling on horseback and laughs with Scout the fun-loving comedy horse.

After the performance, the audience has the opportunity to visit the specially designed stables to meet the equine stars and their human partners which makes a heart-warming finale to an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

See the advertisement right for booking details.

CARPETS & F L O O R I N r,

Carpets : Vinyls : Wood Laminate Entrance Matting : Flotex : Remnants Stair Runners : Tiles Underlays & Accessories

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Swindon Wide

24

Brunel brings community together Just as the great engineer's vision li nked cities, towns and countrysidetogether, celebrating his birthday on 15 and 16 July brought thousands to the town centre to perform, participate and watch in fantastic sunshine, ending with a spectacular evening aerial show and fireworks.

Siyaya entertaining the crowds in the town centre BrunelfesIi%W2.0+> $w,

4 t ,: $rtl1

r,,5

IVI .

The big crowd at the Children s Fete in Faringdon Road park on Sunday 16 July

"As I was going to St Ives....."

Aeria/ acrobatics to end the weekend

Little people in to// hats in the grand parade on 15 July

Over 100 young singers from Swindon aged 5 to 24 years will be rounding up the Brunel 200 Celebrations in September when they perform a specially commissioned youth opera Brune/- The Litt/e Man in the Tall Hat by composer Betty Roe and librettist Marian Lines.

The youngsters from Janice Thompson Performance Trust are busily rehearsing the opera set around the GWR Swindon works annual trip. The story unfolds through the eyes of a local family who glimpse, as the train rushes through the countryside on its jour-

ney to St Ives, Brunel himself, his family, and the engineers and train builders.

Brunel The Little Man in the Tall Hat has been made possible with funding from Heritage Lottery Fund and will be performed at St Mark's Church in the Railway Village on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September.

Tickets are on sale at the Swindon Arts Centre or call the Janice Thompson Performance Trust on 535185, mail: JTPTrust @aol.com Details of singing classes can be found at: www.jtptrust.org

employment s ervices

the positive news force in Swindon closer to the community

Vacancy for a motivated and experienced Sales Manager 20 to 30 hours a week depending upon the successful candidate Over the last 20 years Swindon Link has established itself as the most closely read publication in the town.

As a free magazine sustained entirely by advertising, sales and marketing are crucial.

The successful candidate will be responsible for account management, growing the magazine's advertiser base and developing client interest in swindonlink.com The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and have a wide range of abilities to contribute to the success of this highly regarded magazine.

You must have a proven track record in sales and account management, hold a full UK driving licence and own a car.

In return you will be offered an attractive salary inclusive of basic and bonus on sales.

More information about the position can be found at www.swindonlink.com To apply please call 01793 432044 or email your cv to: swindon@recruitgroup.co.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 7th August

Recruit Employment Services, 46 Commercial Road, Swindon www.recruitemployment.co.uk Carlisle Staffing PLC, trading as Recruit Employment Services, an Employment Agency/Business

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SwindGn Wide Whit's Line Dance

SueLynn Partners

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Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road)

For tailor made Curtains • Pelmets Roman blinds Swags & tails Cushion covers

Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Measuring and fi tting advice No job too small For further information call

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Flights!

• experience of a lifetime! ... Something different for someone special!

lights from f 6 r

Children & Family Events

Thursday 24th, 6.30pm

Sunday 6th, 10am - 4.30pm Classic Car & Bike Show. With club stands and displays, trade stands and an auto jumble sale.Free.

Science Museum. Wroughton. For details call 07747 804487 Monday 7th to Thursday 10th, 2pm to 4pm Print a T-shirt week. Suitable for ages 5 to 11. £6inc/udingmateria/s.

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Wednesday 9th,10.30am to 3.30pm Summer Holiday Activity Day. Outdoors and around the farm: meet the animals, enjoy arts and crafts in the big barn, cook over a real fire, build dens. £15 Lower Shaw Farm Thursday 17th to Saturday 19th, 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 20th, 2.30pm & 6pm

30 minutes

The Railway Children. Be entranced by the magic of this classic family favourite in an exciting open air theatre production at Lydiard Park.

An ideal family show. Bring a picnic, and seating for a summer evening treat. Tickets £10. child £5, from Swindon Information Centre, 466454 Saturday 26th, 3pm Hog Roast in a sunny beer garden with music and bouncy castle. Nine Elms Pub. call 770442 Sunday 27th, 10am to 4.30pm Wild West Adventure Show: Greatwood Open Day. Meet the horses, cowboy skills, dog show and wild west fun and games. £5 Under 12s free. Rainscombe Hill Farm, off A345 between Marlborough and Pewsey.

Theatre Thursday 24th to Sunday 27th,

d.co.d1 ,. .

Studley Grange garden & leisure park

and

Craft

{ (\ ( f j Y En joy truly magical experience as you walk amongst hundreds of the world's most honIiliI, it hi nlarfliac fivinn hnnl y arniind a trnnirrl

"r

V U.aGG^e

Spirit of the Horse: Chimera.

Spectacular touring equestrian show.

See page 23 for booking details. From £16 adult £12 child. £32. family Thursday 17th & Thursday 24th,

7.30pm plus matinees Sat 26th & Sun 27th 2.30pm Summer Youth Project: Annie. A full scale musical with a professional director, musical director and choreographer. Orphan Annie escapes from her New York orphanage and the mean-tempered matron Miss Hannigan in search of her parents and ends up being adopted by a billionaire. £10.50.

Wyvern

Music

11am to 4pm Artrageous at the Abbey: family Saturday 12th, 6pm fun at Lacock with various arts and Lion Train. The roots reggae of Bob crafts activities. No bookings needed. Marley lies behind the inspiration for Call 01249730141 fordetails. Lacock this 8 piece groove maching. Rock Abbey nr Chippenham solid reggae rhythms underpin the Sunday 20th, 11am to 4pm voice of T Carthy and the angelic Picnic in the park Get together on harmonies of three backing vocalists.

Shaw Forest Park. Bring refresh- Advance tickets from Swindon ments, walk in the woods, games, Information Centre. £8.50. £12 on see the trees you planted. night. Town Gardens Bowl.

Tuesday 22nd, 10.30am to 4pm Children's Mosaic Workshop. A drop in session led by a professional mosaic a rt ist. Make your own coaster.

Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth nr Cheltenham. Call 01242 890256. £5.50, £3 child family £14.

Tea Dance Thursdays 3rd, 17th & 31st August, 2pm to 4.30pm Memorial Hall, Wootton Basset.

All styles and rhythms: sequence, modern ballroom, old-tyme, line dance. All welcome.

27

On in August Exhibitions

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts

tiWINDON. WORKMEN LEAVVNG GWF WORK?,

High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch ' Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns

' =

We'll also gladly order anything else you need.

The Rai/way Comes to Town at the Wyvern until 4 September To 31st July The Swindon Works. Images of Swindon Railway Works taken by Roy Nash, a former Works employee.

His photographs capture a raw and natural piece of social history. Free.

National Trust Head Office, Heel To Sunday 27th Glamorous Gowns. Costumes featured in the films The Libertine, Finding Never/and and The White Countess. Norma/ admission charges apply L ydiard House.

To 30th September Search Light. Prints and drawings selected for the rich variety of ways in which they depict light. Featuring works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art, including four recently acquired etchings by Frank Auerbach. Free. Swindon Museum Art Gallery To September

To Tuesday 29th

The Seven Deadly Sins. Work by Tim Carroll and Laura Copping: two artists with contrasting approaches to the rich tradition of eternal damnation. Free. Arts Centre Wednesday 30th August to 20th September Brunel Speeding the Mail. The British Postal Museum and archive touring exhibition highlights four major areas of Brunel's work. Each theme is illustrated with stamp artwork from 1969 to date. Norma/ admission charges app/y. Steam

Traditional games & toys: local craft items

In the Stable _,• _.

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Friday 11th to Saturday 19th, 10am to 5pm Wiltshire Artists display work in a wide range of style and media. Free.

St Peters Church. Marlborough To 4th September The Railway Comes to Town. The story of Brunel's transformation of Swindon from sleepy market town to dynamic industrial setting told through photographs, prints and postcards. Free. Wyvern

Dolls houses F- miniatures A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden

;^

.

Pots, Planters & ornaments from around the world

Mon to Sat 10 to 5 Sun 11 to 5

Come Rain or Shine!

Brunel 200: a series of exhibitions to include the Battle of the Gauges.

Visitors will also see Brunel in his 18 Duke Street office. The great man himself is seated at his desk, above. surrounded by drawings and equipment. working long hours to produce a report to the Gauge Commissioners who will make a decision over the future of his beloved Broad Gauge railway. Normal admission charges. Steam To 30th December Treasure. What makes a treasure?

Precious metals, age, rarity? Or all three? Find out more in this exhibition of archaeological treasure from the Swindon area including an ornate silver 16th Century dress fastener, a Saxon sword and a rare Bronze Age rapier. Many of the items are on display for the first time. Free.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Talks Sunday 27th, 11am Swindon's Secrets Brunel 200 Guided Tours. A 90 minute walk around some of the hidden gems of Swindon's industrial past. Free, but booking essential Caff414797 Meet at National Monuments Record Centre Reception, Churhward

Roves Farm AL

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

Signed off A36I Highworth to Swindon Road Open daily I0.30am - 5.00pm Themed Activity Weeks during school holidays * Meet and feed the animals * The world's largest living willow maze * Tractor and trailer rides & electric tractors * Giant straw bale stack and bouncy castle * Kids crafty half hour * Indoor heated toddlers soft play & sandpit * Animal racing at weekends and holidays * Granary Tea Room - homemade cakes!

THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES WEDDING RECEPTIONS AND SOCIAL EVENTS

28

Swindon Wide Now booking

The all new Swindon Rendezvous

Situated in the heart of Theatre Square, Swindon Rendezvous is pleased to bring a taste of the Orient to Swindon We take pride that all our food is selected from the very best ingredients and wherever possible healthy and organic produce, which all form the foundation of our foods. All our food is freshly cooked to order.

The ALL YOU CAN EAT MENU has now been extended to 7 days a week

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RESERVE A I 1 I

Sunday - Thursday £15.00 per person Fridays & Saturdays 018.00 per person

You can choose from over 100 dishes

'

Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner I

I. D. WILL BE REQUIRED

Venues

I

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FREE BOTTLE I T

I J

OF WINE

I

Book a table for 4 and receive a • FREE BOTTLE OF WINE for every 4 guests (Offer only available on all you can I eat and set menu, please present this voucher when ordering.)

L-------.1

20% OFF ALL TAKEPWAYS 11-12a Theatre Square Swindon Telephone 01793 523570

2 September, fpm & 3.30pm Mr Men and Little Miss. The Surprise Birthday Party. Children will love 01235 768324 seeing their favourite characters talk 23 September, 7.30pm li ve to them on stage. £8.50, family Showaddywaddy: the greatest rock £32 Wyvern 'n 'roll band ever joined by Blondie 2 September, 8pm tribute band Atomic,. £18.50. Wyvern The Storys. 6-piece band who 24 September, 2.30pm to 4.30pm recently supported Elton John on his Walk and quiz with Swindon summer tour play Eagles-influenced Wildlife Group. Easy 2 mile walk to style of melodic country-rock. £10. see the Front Garden before Arts Centre development starts. Nleetat Mann7 to 9 September, 8pm ington Retail Park car park. Free Art. Old Town Theatre Company 25 to 30 September, 7pm. Also present Yasmina Reza'a hugely Wed 10.30am, Sat 2.30pm successful black comedy. £6. Arts The Railway Children. A nationally Centre acclaimed adaptation of E Nesbit's 10 September, 7.30pm Edwardian adventure. £14, £10 Swindon Recital Series. Joy Farrall matinees. Wyvern (Clarinet) & Paul Turner (Piano) 4 October, 7.30pm present a programme of English Barry Cryer. The comedy godfather classical music from these critically teams up with rock 'n roll legend acclaimed musicians. £10 tickets Ronnie Golden in a riot of jokes, from 612775 only Arts Centre songs and general frolic. £14.50.

12 September, 8pm Wyvern The Blockheads. The late Ian Dury's 6 October, 7.30pm backing band on tour to celebrate An Evening with Bill Bryson. The the 30th anniversary of the release best-selling author of Made in of their seminal album New Boots America. Notes from a Small /s/and And Panties. Expect all the hits (Hit and A Short History of Nearly Me With Your Rhythm Stick. Reasons Everything is a hugely entertaining To Be Cheerful Part 3. Sex & Drugs speaker. £1750 Wyvern & Rock & Roll) and some fine new 14 October, 2.30pm & 8pm material. £18.50. Arts Centre Spirit of the Dance. Irish in origin and bursting with raw envergy. this explosive and powerful show combines heart-pounding Irish Table Top Sale Dance with the sensual Latino Saturdays 12 & 26 August rhythms of Flamenco and Red hot 10am to 12noon Salsa. £1750. Wyvern Friends of Moredon and 22 October, 7.30pm Rodbourne Cheney Library Joe Pasquale: The Return of the Bric a brac, books, CDs, DVDs, Love Monkey. A brand new comedy videos, knitting wool show that will answer age old Library car park questions like: what do the people in China call their best plates? £16.50.

Car Treasure Hunt Wyvern Monday 28 August, 12 noon £5 per car of up to 4 passengers.

BBQ on return plus prizes Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Nine Elms Pub Tel: 614837 Information on 770442 Heelis, National Trust Churchward. Tel: 817400 Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane Tel: 771080

Fundraising

TABLE FOR YOUR BIRTH DATE If a table is booked for 6 or more the birthday boy or girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free Birthday must be on actual day booked)

22 September, 7pm Cliff Richard Tribute by Jimmy Jemain. Dinner and disco. Swallow Hotel. South Marston. Bookings on

WJRNTE[D Lind, Mjcizine

i- ribi4ors for Greenmeadow

Woodhall Par k Freshbrook /

Grange Park, Ramleaze

Call 722002 for details

Lydiard House Tel: 770401 Science Museum, Wroughton Tel: 846200 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Gardens Bowl Quarry Road, Old Town Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Place your fr y

- lassifieds C - - wswind

k.com

The Link Magazine • July 2006

29

Isambard is now the name North Swindon's secondary school is to be called the Isambard Community School after the governors reviewed their original decision to name it River View.

The name was announced for- central feature of the school. mally to prospective parents on 14 Parents were very keen to learn July when headteacher Rachel more about admissions as there is Mattey outlined her ideas for still confusion about who can atIsambard and Equion FM ex- tend. From September 2007 North plained the management of the Swindon parents will be able to facilities. choose a place at Isambard or Isambard opens in September Hreod Parkway which will accept 2007 and will have 240 places for 300 children a year.

Year 7 children. It will build up to Although there will be 540 places full capacity in the following five available it is thought there are years. only four hundred Year 7s in the Ms Mattey said opening a brand catchment area. new school was a unique and ex- Admissions will be managed by citing challenge for staff and chil- Swindon Council's education dedren. "The first pupils have a partment. Application forms will unique opportunity to set the tone be circulated in September to be for the school." returned by 18 October.

She told parents that each child The governors are preparing a will have an individualised learn- bid to Government for Isambard ing programme and she envisages to open with media and performaccelerated learning for some as a ing arts specialist status.

Not the official logo, but some street art created on hoardings at Churchward as part of the Brunel 200 festival

Join us for a three course dinner served in the Wilton Suite, followed by dancing to Pop Of All Ages'.

Arrival from 7.15pm, dinner 7.45pm, dancing and late bar until 12.30am.

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Dresscode - black tie - masks optional

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£25.00 per person (full pre-payment required)

To book please call 01793 878785

THE NINE ELMS PUB Did Shaw Lane, Nine Elms, West Swindon

July/August What's On? Friday 28th July Matt Chipperfield performs solo Saturday 29th July Maxx Traxx Karaoke AUBU5T BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND BONANZA!

Fri 25th Maxx Traxx Karaoke Sat 26th Hog Roast - from 3pm Kids bouncy castle Mon 28th Charity Car Treasure Hunt - 12noon start, £5 per car, BBQ to follow, kids bouncy castle, great prizes

Help build the North Swindon community through a business at the Learning Campus

For more information and to view our new menu - check out our weh site: www.thenineelms-unm or call : 770442

There is an unusual and potentially lucrative business proposition on offer at the new Isambard Community School which opens in October in Priory Vale.

Location of the commercial space at/samba munity School FrankLnean

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-

I

Equion FM, the company managing the facilities, is offering a lease on a 100 square metre serviced space in a prime location at the front entrance of the school, next to the piazza between the campus and Redhouse Village Centre.

Although children will not arrive until 2007, facilities such as outdoor playing fields and all weather pitches, a sports hall, dance/drama studios, a TV studio, and meeting rooms will be available to hire this Autumn. The other three schools on the site will open in September.

Sarah Hudd of Equion said, "the buildings will be a fantastic asset to the community. The commercial space, as we call it, was included in the design to give the campus an extra dimension.

"It could be a place where peo-

-

_______

ple pop in fora coffee and croissant, maybe look at the internet; in the evening it could provide a place for youth to gather, or perhaps it could become a bistro.

"There will be thousands of people passing each day, going to school or to use the facilities. The campus is certainly going to become one of Swindon's key meeting points and we're looking for a business which compliments the campus and will provide a benefit to the community."

To discuss the business opportunity, call Sarah Hudd on 702333 or mail: shudd @equion.ltd.uk

2r

Phil Fryer & Alan Becks pay tribute to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, 'crooning'to the duos repertoire of songs' Together with a four course candle lit dinner.

Tel: 01793 721701 Best Western Premier

Blunsdon House Hotel generations of exceptional service

www.blunsdonliouse.co.uk

30

The Link Magazine • August 2006

Place your

classifieds

Going Underground up North ®

TM^TBT

Mansfield Begbie

Associates Ltd

Mortgage Brokers

Providing mortgage services for the communi ty since 1987

TAKE IT EASY IN AUGUST, BUT MAKE YOUR MONEY WORK FOR ° ^P YOU AFTER A MORTGAGE REVIEW

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You could be surprised by how much you could save We may be able to find you a lower interest rate. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

Whether you're planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your proper ty, with over 17 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal se rvice.

There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it will be £300

As part of a shake up of Swindon's heavily criticised Youth Services, young people are being invited to run a new magazine and radio station at the Underground at the North Swindon District Centre.

New youth development worker, Rosalie Driver is developing a youth communications team with 13 to 19 year olds across Swindon who will meet weekly at the Underground to focus on four

media projects - a magazine, web site, internet radio station and film production.

The facilities at the Underground make it the ideal base for the project. Young people from the whole of Swindon are welcome to attend on Monday evenings. Those who can't make it to meetings can contribute by sending or emailing articles.

"The magazine and website will be a great way to promote what's out there," said Rosalie. "Young people will be able to contact each other and have a voice."

The Underground has already built up a core of regulars at Wednesday open sessions. Young people have a choice of activities, the chance to listen to music or use the computers and refreshments from the smoothie bar.

Media specialist Rosalie Driver

Sunday afternoon sessions began in July at the youngsters' request and there are plans for Band Nights on Sunday evenings. From September, Hayden Wick Parish Council is going to sponsor a Friday night session for 10 to 13 year olds.

For details about the Underground, call or text Rosalie on 07766 368368.

Awards for two bands of majorettes Britannia Majorettes kicked off the 2006 Old Town Festival in late June by performing at the opening ceremony in Wood Street, returning a week later for the festival procession, when they were judged as the best of 26 organisations taking part.

The majorettes performed at the Brunel 200 Children's Fete on 16 July in Faringdon Road Park and will also be seen at carnivals in Bath, Shrivenham and Malmesbury this summer.

Britannia practice on Fridays 7pm to 9pm at Rodbourne Cheney church hall. Girls can join from seven years of age. For details call Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Mike Alison Humphrey on 706741 or and Joyce Bawden present Stacey Davies Lisa Ellis on 703220. and Rebecca Bean with the Old Town www.britanniamajorettes.com procession cup

However, no completion no fee.

Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mo rtgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For a free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Swindon

772779 e: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance

West Swindon based Bluebelle Majorettes were very i mpressed by the highly professional marching bands when they took part in the European Band Championships in Bath on 9 July.

They were invited at the lastmo- medal against 16 other groups in our category." ment to take part in the Bluebelle drum maevent that attracts children and adultperformor Lisa Dent, left, won silver for her performers from the home counance in the leaders' sectries and the Nethertion. lands.

Christine said she ) Organiser Christine Doyle said the girls ha wanted to thank those a fantastic time. "The who made donations to cover the cost of a coach ideas, the marching ^ techniques and the col. after her appeal in the our of the event was June Link. ^ breathtaking. We were The Bluebelles prac9"y tice on Friday evenings the youngest side there at Greendown. For deso you can imagine we tails about joining call were in tears when we I Christine on 852929. received a bronze r

° ww - ° r indonlink 'n

The Link Magazine • August 2006

31

Make the scrapstore a summer holiday stop-over Swindon Scrapstore is an Aladdin's cave full of fantastic things that can be used for creative activities and any parent or carer can go there for inspiration during the summer break.

Boredomisnotawordknownat joyment.

They also have a craft shop Scrapstore because it's an empoOn offer at Scrapstore are plain which sells paints, glues, wiggly rium of curiosity and source of and coloured paper, gold and sil- eyes, beads, cake decoration kits, invention. ver card, fabric, ribbon, carpet tissue paper, clay, pipe cleaners, Young users will also learn that mats, paper cups, envelopes, foam playdoh, feathers and glitter by applying their imagination to pieces, books, cardboard tubes, paints. other people's waste, will make plastic tubes, dot to dot books,plasDiscover the possibilities at the holidays a time of fun and en- tic boxes... the list goes on.

Scrapstore at the Pinehurst People's Centre which is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10am to Holiday sports in Toothill 4pm, and Thursdays 11am to 4pm.

Toothill Junior Youth Club has received a Sports Relief grant to offer For details and also information free coaching to 5 to 15 year olds on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 27 on how to donate waste items call July to 31 August at the Toothill Farm Centre on Bodiam Drive.

Olivia McCann on 513982.

Qualified coaches will run two sessions on each day, in separate age www.scrapstore.co.uk groups, in a variety of sports including badminton, basketball, volleyball, archery, rounders and mini-tennis.

Although children do not have to be members of the club, they have to be registered by a parent or carer; turn up before the day's activity starts at 10am. Bring a packed lunch; drinks will be provided.

On Tuesday 22 August the club will be organising an Its a Knockout challenge fun day in association with Youth Action Wiltshire.

PROFESSIONAL MOBILE HAIRDRESSER Free consultations given to every new customer Call now for an appointment

Tel: 01793 871307 Mob: 07887 778899

Vandalism leaves leaders despondent The junior club suffered an attack on a new play house and a storage shed at the end of June, the fifth this year. Club organiser Mavis Reed said, "the volunteer organisers are working flat out to provide positive activity for youngsters in Toothill but their confidence is being eroded by

the constant damage and mindless vandalism."

Activities at STEAM It's full steam ahead for a fabulous summer holiday at STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway which is hosting a series of summer activities for youngsters during the long break from school.

Summer camps will be held each the museum or visit the neighbourWednesday during the holidays, ing Outlet Centre.

10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to All summer camp co-ordinators 4pm, from 2 August. are CRB checked and NVQ qualiCamps are for four to 11 year fied. To book a place on the camps olds and include arts and crafts, call the museum on 466646. circus skills, parachute games, face Meanwhile, throughout the sumpainting and drama. And while mer holidays the museum will have the youngsters are having fun quiz trails for families to enjoy. mum and dad can wander round www.swindon.gov.uk/STEAM

r Thbow of colours to brighten

up your home this Summer!

Charisma Blinds - the place for quality and value Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds

Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm

BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

c^nz1 ,l^as ^ g ns Ltd

Loft Conversion Specialists

Look out for the Reading Mission This summer Swindon Libraries are encouraging children to keep up their reading skills during the holidays with some undercover detective work.

This year's challenge is themed around spying and the Reading Mission involves detective work along with activity sheets, stickers and spy cards. Every child who completes the task will be rewarded with a 'mission accomplished' medal, a certificate and entry into a prize draw.

It's free to take part and all details can be found in a library near you.

Talent in the town gardens A Youth Festival in the Town Gardens will showcase local talent and Swindon Youth Services is inviting young performers to come forward.

The festival on 9 September, 1pm take part in, as well as enjoying the to 10pm, will be a celebration of performances - all for free." achievement by young people She explained that during the across the town. There will be afternoon, the venue will be split music and dance performances on into zones incorporating informastage throughout the day and tion, activities, art and performSwindon Rock School is organis- ance. Young people are also ining a Battle of the Bands for the volved in organising these. evening.

Anyone aged 13 to 19 who is Youth Development Worker interested in performing on the Lyndsay Poole said, "there will be day should contact Lyndsay on a range of demonstrations and 07919 111539 or mail: 1pool@ workshops for young people to swindon.gov.uk

'1 Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in converting all types of loft into quality living space.

Whether you need more space or wish to expand your house rather than moving, loft conversions are a cost effective way of increasing your living space without losing

valuable garden area. We convert all types of lofts including modern 'W' truss lofts.

We are a professional engineering company, who make extensive use of computer aided design (CAD), to optimise the space and the head height within a loft and to

accurately design stairs to fit into the complex geometry of a loft causing a minimum disruption to existing living space.

If you need more living space for a bedroom, office, playroom or a place to relax, converted lofts make very attractive li ght extra rooms.

Designed correctly loft conversions are an environmentally friendly, cost effective way of increasing living space.

Freephone 0800 9178695 www.acenti.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

32

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ree classifieds

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Support, smoothies and stamina helped 14 year old Lucy Bouveri-Brine to complete a marathon swim equivalent to crossing the English Channel.

Lucy swam 21 miles in the Link She said, "it was difficult around costs.

Lucy, a distance specialist with Centre pool to raise funds for a trip the half way mark but it got better to the Gambia in October. As she until about 400 lengths to go. Then Swindon Dolphins, said she had ploughed up and down to com- Sarah Baker, my friend in the Swin- always wanted to swim the Chanplete 1,344 lengths, friends and don Dolphins, got in to be a pace- nel but you have to be 18. "When I was chosen to go to Gunjur I family were at the poolside offer- maker which really helped."

Lucy is among 21 Commonweal knew what I could do. So far, I've ing encouragement.

In the week before the swim, School pupils who will spend a raised over £500 from the swim Lucy ate a high carbohydrate diet week in the Gambian village of and another £100 from a car boot with plenty of oats, pasta, whole Gunjur. The pupils are asked to sale."

Looking forward to visiting meal bread and fruit. Throughout raise funds with half of the money the swim, she made short stops for going towards educational equip- Gambia, Lucy said, "we'll stay in a ment and materials for the village hotel but will spend most of our fruit smoothies and bananas. school and half covering travel time in Gunjur and one night with a family.

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Extreme challenge for MS centre A team from the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis took part in the national MS Challenge in Snowdon in early July which involved running around the mountain through mud, often waist deep, over stiles and through streams and forests carrying somebody in a wheelchair.

1'

PILATES CLASSES Shaw Village Hall

Mon: 6 -

24 Hour Gym Cricklade Haydon Wick Taw Hill

Tues: 10

Haydon Wick Cricklade Greendown 24 Hour Gym

Mon: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) Mon: 7.30 - 8.30pm Tues: 7.50 - 9.20pm; Fri: 7.15 - 8.45pm Wed: 12.50 - 2.05pm (Beginners welcome)

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I Iam; Wed: 2.05 - 3.05pm (Beginners)

Tues: 6.30 - 7.30pm

Tues: Blom - 9pm Thurs: 6 - 7pm (Beginners)

YOGA CLASSES

\

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MS Centre volunteer Neil Paddon, left, and Michelle Leighton, corn-

iT Yoga 4 Children Helping to improve their confidence, concentration and co-ordination Taster classes at 24 Hour Gym, 3.45pm Tuesday: 25th July, I st August & 8th August 5 week courses at 24 Hour Gym, 3.45pm

starting Tuesday 12th & Friday

Centre coordinator Jackie Wray said, "we all had great fun, even John Winslow in the wheelchair, who got jostled around a bit.

"We hope we will have raised about £4,000 for the centre through team sponsorship which is a magnificent result."

The Swindon MS Therapy Centre relies entirely on sponsorship and fundraising to maintain its operation. If the photo inspires you to take part in next year's challenge, call Jackie on 481700.

1 5th

September

For four year olds and upwards

munity and environmental affairs manager at Nationwide. right. ran April's London marathon in aid of the centre. It was Neil's first and Michelle's fourth.

Between them they raised over £1,900.

Left, Michelle presents her cheque to Sandra Herbert, fundraising trustee, and Jackie Wray, centre manager

@ www.sw'

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33

The Link Magazine • August 2006

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

34

Forest and football can go together say junior league Formal football at Shaw Forest Park could become a reality if Swindon Council, the Shaw Forest Protection Group and the North Wilts Youth & Minor Football League can come to an agreement.

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The July Link reported the Shaw Forest Protection Group concerns about Swindon Council's plan for

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- Includes Roadside Service, Vehicle Recovery Service & Home Service

pared in the park. The North Wilts Youth & Minor Football League have applied to the council to lease pitches and Shaw Forest has been suggested.

At a meeting between league officials and members of the protection group in July, league secretary Margaret Rivers, from Shaw, said, "every weekend about 5,000 seven to 18 year olds play in our league and we're now the fifteenth largest in the FA. We have 367 teams within 30 miles of Swindon needing pitches and 60 new teams will be joining in September.

"Swindon Council's provision for junior football is very poor and pitches expensive to hire. Children are not allowed to play alongside adults, nor use the same changing facilities. There is a desperate need for more pitches and we're searching for sites we can lease and take responsibility for.

"We're very concerned about providing football for less advantaged children so that they can join teams and participate."

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from Peatmoor, said "I did the protest against the stadium proposal two years ago, but football for children is different. I think the forest group and junior football can work together."

If successful in securing use of the pitches the league would have to raise money and seek grants to for changing rooms. League chairman Kevan Williams said, because of the lack of services to the site, any building would have to be ecofriendly and be designed to blend into the forest park setting. He added that it could also open to provide refreshments to park visitors.

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preparation for the league season starting in September.

Coach Joy Blake would like to hear from experienced players and anybody returning to the game, or who wants to learn.

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The teams train on the Greendown School astro-tu rf and will be playing in their respective age groups in the North Wilts Youth League.

For detailsabout joining, call: Under 8s - Gerald Kent, tel: 613576 or 07736 901382; Under 12s - Kevin Prictor, tel: 525680; Under 1 5s- Dave Parsons, tel: 870310.

For details on other age groups call club secretary Karen Prictor on 525680.

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Don Rogers, former Swindon Town star and president of the junior league, said he was impressed by the forest site. "It's a perfect place which would not cause anybody any problems.

"Swindon has lost so many playing fields and the council is not doing enough to provide more for its children."

• The Link has put the junior league in touch with Equion who will manage the new playing fields at North Swindon Learning Campus.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

{" 'w.swindont"

River Ray restoration nominated for eco-award Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's Swindon Water for Wildlife Project has been shortlisted for a prestigious national environmental award for work on restoring the River Ray. The project coordinated by Jo Sayers, skilled contractors ^pgyp l l tpyw ^^ ; and a team of local volun— teers have been working over the past 18 months on restoring the natural curves, shallows and flood-plains to a 1.2 kilometre stretch of the Ray at Rivermead.

The first phase within the r Thames Water compound ,. . : was completed last year and the second near Westlea was .: finished in April.

The work has turned a straight, steep-sided and alJo Sayer at the River Ray restoration most lifeless drainage channel into a rich and natural habitat within weeks, after the machinery had gone, we've seen insect and for a whole web of wildlife, Although heavy machinery was birdlife starting to use the site in used to change the course of the new ways. It's just the beginning; river, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust vol- we'll see lots of species colonising unteers cut down trees along the the environment over the coming edge to increase the flood storage months."

The River Ray Project will be capacity of the area and erected bird boxes. Unfortunately vandals judged against other nominees in ripped them down soon after- the Biffaward Natural Environment category to be judged in the wards.

"It was hard work for the volun- autumn.

To help at the River Ray or on teers, bashing and slashing vegetation in the winter before the another trust project call 526229 or contractors arrived," said Jo. "But mail: jos@wiltshirewildlife.org

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

Place your free classitieas

South African visitors strengthen links with Peatmoor primary Building on an extremely successful partnership, staff and pupils from Dihiabeng School in the Clarens district of South Africa visited Peatmoor Primary School for a week of shared activities based on the theme of traditional cultures in late June.

Dihlabeng headteacher, Marg- homes of Peatmoor children and aret Grant was accompanied by in school talked to each class about two members of staff and two chil- their culture and offered Peatmoor dren. children the chance to try maize The youngsters stayed in the porridge which is a staple food in South Africa.

Basotho pupil, Thandi Mashinini explained about her life and spoke about traditional dress and _ ;^ 1_ _.' IRJJM IN. hair styles. Thielie Malherbe, an Grooming salons are Afrikaans boy, talked about his life on a farm and the history of the not just for poodles!

Afrikaners. He said, "My life won't be the same now. None of my famWhatever shape, size or hair length, ily has ever gone overseas and I'm all dogs deserve quite proud that I'm the first." a visit to Peatmoor pupils told the tradiHair of the Dog tional tales of Jack and the Beanstalk and Red Riding Hood Collection/delivery available, or Friends together at Peatrrroor, back from left, Dihlabeng teachers, Jo West, and the visitors joined them in role drop your dog off in the morning Anna Mofokeng, Margaret Grant. Front, Dihlabeng and Peatmoor pupils, play and drama activities. and pick up in the evening Tielie Malherbe, Charlie Price, Thandi Mashinini, Charlotte McPhee The two schools were first linked 74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive. Swindon The two schools share work and in 2000 and have received funding curriculum. Margaret Grant, who Call Denise on 01793 608747 from the British Council to sup- has been pictured in The Link on staff keep in touch via email, text or 07866 507633 port the development of a global her previous visits to Swindon, and'phone. Recently pupils in both said, "the main thrust of the part- completed projects on Nelson nership hasn't been about the in- Mandela, then emailed each other Talking to animals with Ingrid Rylance frastructure and buildings; it's PowerPoint presentations.

Although the British Council been mainly about curriculum and Animal communicator and animal healer friendship. On the management grant ends this year, acting head Animal psychic and Reiki master side, I've learned a lot from Terri Melanie Brough said the partnerHelp resolve behavioural problems Peacock, who was headteacher ship will continue. "Next year we here, and our staff have been able hope to work together on citizenCall 01793 615321 to develop our special needs cur- ship, school councils and environdobie.healer@ntlworld.com riculum." ment issues."

4

Close encounters of the Victorian kind Children at St Francis Primary School in Taw Hill looked at history in a new light when they took part in a Victorian encounter day.

Dressed as Victorians, the pupils looked at everyday life and the influence of Brunel's work. They built model bridges to discover the design principles used by the great engineer.

Musicians Issy Emeney and John Dipper of Folk South West helped bring the day to life with traditional song and dance.

The children also had the opportunity to examine Victorian artefacts brought into school from STEAM. Headteacher CliveWestall, said "it's about bringing history to life in a practical way."

Right, Wendy Howard from STEAM and Ell' Carpenter and Jasmine Jarvis.

Below, Mr B joined musicians Issy Emeney and John Dipper with St Francis and, from left, Bradley Williams, Kieron Roche, Megan Cleave, Jacob Phipps, Donny Collis, Kathrine Crawley

headteacher Clive Westall

Uli.

t

C www.. 1ndonlink.com

The Link Magazine • August 2006

Busy summer for Westlea crews

da,'oS'

Firefighter Greg Izon outlines the varied activities at Westlea Fire Station in his quarterly report.

Since April this year crews at the station have attended more than 200 emergency incidents.

As usual, these have varied from automatic fire alarms to house fires and from suspected f.. chemical incidents to road traffic collisions.

We have also been attending a lot of small deliberate fires involving bushes and

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Starting these fires is not only dangerous but also ties up a fire engine that may be needed more urFighting balk the water in Moresby Close gently elsewhere.

At the other end of the spectrum on level ground away from fences a crew had a very busy day on 6 and sheds. Use only enough charJuly when the skies opened, in- coal to cover the base to a depth of eluding helping households in two inches and use appropriate Moresby Close, Westlea to prevent lighting fuel. Don't use petrol like a friend of mine who now has no water entering their homes.

Wehave attended many road traf- eyebrows.

When finished cooking, make fic collisions, some of which have resulted in severe injuries. Were it sure the barbecue is cool before not for seat belts the victims could moving it and never put the ashes in the bin. have been a lot worse off, On 1 June the service became the We are noticing that the cause of a lot of collisions is down to tired- Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service to ness. If you are tired please pull reflect the changing role of our job. over as soon as it is safe and have Details aboutus and also fire safety a rest. It really is better to be late information can be found at: www.wiltsfire.gov.uk than to never arrive at all.

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

Garden party and painting marathon set for 5 August Phillippa Wright is a girl with a mission as she works to raise funds for a trip to Nepal.

The teenager from Common take a gap year and when her psyPlatt has just finished her A Levels chology teacher mentioned the at New College but there's no time Missionary Society's work, she to relax. She is preparing to spend knew that it was right for her. Alsix months of her gap year work- though she didn't know anything ing with the Baptist Missionary about the country, she felt drawn Society in Nepal. to working in Nepal.

Phillippa always knew she'd After a month of training in first aid, language and spiritual work, she will set off in October with Picnic in the park three others to work in a hospital and schools in the town of Pokhara.

Sunday 20 August, On their return to the UK, the group 11 am to 4pm of four will stay together and tour Shaw Forest Park eight churches, spending a week Bring refreshments, walk in working in each. the woods, play games, see "I'm looking forward to experiencing a new culture and putting hours on the day. Visitors will be the trees you planted. Dismy faith into practice," said able to see her at work and even cover the changes in the park Phillippa. "It'll definitely be scary buy a piece of art to take away. over the last two years. but exciting."

The garden party takes place Park in the new car park off To raise funds, on 5 August she from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at 39 ComMead Way and followthe signs is opening her parent's garden for mon Platt, near the Forrester's to the picnic meadow. cream teas. A keen artist, she will Arms. also be painting non-stop for 12 For details call 770986.

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Enjoy an afternoon of fun and entertainment with traditional Punch and Judy, the Wroughton Silver Band, and home made refreshments.

Parking in Wroughton is not easy.

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Half marathon signing up This years Nationwide Swindon half marathon and fun runs on16 October benefits the Prospect Hospice.

Entry forms can be picked up at Swindon leisure centres and also downloaded from: www.swindonhalfmarathon.co.uk Can't run? Won't run?

Why not volunteer instead?

If running 13 miles on a Sunday morning isn't your idea of fun, what about helping the event go smoothly.

Volunteers are needed to be race marshals, to direct traffic and spectators, and hand out water bottles to runners.

To join the volunteer team call Paul Bentley on 816151 or mail: pbentley@prospect-hospice.net An application form can be downloaded from: www.prospect-hospice.net

Great total from fifth open gardens LNFt

TL_ I nn,

L r eam Ica 'olunt 'rs, Jenny Machin, Caroline Raekham, Eleanor Snowdon,

Jackie Hughes, Jill O'Connor, Ray Dredge, Lesley Dredge

The West Swindon Open Gardens weekend at the end of June again raised an impressive total for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Over 20 keen gardeners in Nine Elms and Old Shaw Lane opened up and the public contributed over £1,800. A further £500 was donated by Raychem.

Wiltshire Breakthrough coordinator Shirley Garman said, "the open gardens have become an important part of the West Swindon calendar and every year more money is raised. Lesley Dredge and her volunteers and all the people who open their gardens are doing a fantastic job."

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The Link Magazine • August 2006

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For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

• Over 10 years experience www.

01793 700 820

• Test, inspection and certification • Showers • Fault finding • Heating • Garden, garage, workshop, loft • Part P compliant • Local company • Extensions • Fully insured • Free quotes • No call out charge www.brunel-electrical.co.uk Telephone: 01793 422880 07785 988557 07725 804738

Ti(eSure CERAMIC TILING Walls 3 floors Bathrooms. kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting Fitted by tradesman QUAL/TYF/N/SH

Ca// Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

psi.: E ii

assured-plumbing.co.uk

•

L 1 WILSON BRICKWORK

Windows, Doors & Conse rv atories

Specialising in smaller works

Your caring family business

• General property maintenance • Brickwork/maintenance • Extensions/porches ^^ • Garden walls/patios • Interior B. exterior decoration • Tiling - walls E. floors • Decking • Free no obligation quotation • Dther works arranged • Insurance work undertaken • No job too small

No obligation, pressure or gimmicks!

For details call 07738 004722 Office: 01793 877883 www.inspireconservatories.co.uk Customer recommendations available -n ti:nd:w Ftdrraelnn

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419

FENSA

LOFT & GARAGE CONVERSIONS From concept to completion Free estimates

Quality service Tel: 01793 635000

PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

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REVOR WYSE

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists j Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. 'No job too small'

6- LAMBING & DI's KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO 1-AMINATE FLPIIRING

HOME: 01193 615321

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 0795 0017584

MOBILE: 07775 842241

Unit 14a. Turnpike, Blunsdon

UPVC, Facia, Cladding, Soffits, Guttering • Local family

• We o ff er Free

quotes • No deposit needed • Best prices ♦ No salesmen ♦ 10 minute survey

'

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,

business • 17 yrs experience • Repairs & cleaning y *No job too small • All work guaranteed

1VLic ueen ` rorert r di L4az.asen S ervice

Ltd

Home

Garden

Painting & decorating

Fencing & walls

Kitchens & bathrooms Carpentry Floor and wall tiling

Turfing & grass seeding

Laminate floors Plastering, Dry lining

Landscaping & design

Roofing, Rendering

Garden maintenance

Fascias & guttering

Ponds & pergolas

Patios & paving

For a FREE quote with no obligation Telephone: 01793 703233 Mobile: 07760 193890 No job too small - All work fully insured

^a^ e

Painter & Decorator Also tiling, coving, dado rails.

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

Wallpaper specialist All work approved &

guaranteed

For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203

or 01793 723023 `my experience your pleasure'

I

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

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING REQUIREMENTS * Renovations/Refurbishments * Extensions * Loft/Garage Conversions 4 Conservatories We have 20 years experience & specialise in extensions References can be provided & vie wings arranged Fast, friendly & reliable service from planning to completion

NO MORE PAINTING, MAINTENANCE FREE, DEAL DIRECT To arrange your FREE survey, call Richard on 01793 725155 or mobile: 07760 143221

For a free no obligation quotation, call: 01793 700454 e-mail: jmrbuildingservices@hotmail.co.uk

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BATHROOMS

BATHRO O MS )

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

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Plumbing

flooring all taken care of

Walls

All types of plu ng undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

& Floors

01793 876600

D ECO RATOR & CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

Interior/exterior painting and decorating

• Wallpaper • •

Tiling Coving • Laminate flooring

Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom •

internal alterations .\o job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

HEATING & PLUMBING

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

Call 01793

334823 or

07788 572043

HE ATING & PLUMBIN ^

Mark Cryer All heating and plumbing jobs and emergency

breakdown cover Phone: 01793 701814 Mobile: 07884 475625 Email:

I

Roofing & building

Interior & exterior work 12 years experience

maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Call 01249 661572 or 07734 088185

DOUBLE GL AZING WINDOWS, DOORS, CON SERVAT ORIES

Doors, windows, fascias, soffits 9 rendering.

Also interior decorating QUALITY WORKMANSHIP 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

I NSTALLED OR REPAIRED

01793 611398 07968 757860

H EATIN G & PLUMBING

U All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed J Warm air unit service, repair & installation

•Central heating installations •All Plumbing work undertaken

J Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken

•Servicing & repairs

•Bathroom Installations

J Landlord/moving house safety inspections

2 Central heating systems flushe d (powerflush) Hot water systems descaled

All at competitive rates

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Quote on request

Alec McKay

J 24 hour call out J Natural gas & LPG qualified

215153

Reg 2520r5

J British Gas trained

H GA RD EN OUSE/

MAINT EN ANCE

MAIN T ENANC E

Building All garden work Concreting paths Gu tt ering and fascia Patio repairs All carpent ry Patio jet wash External painting Repair or replace small walls Internal painting & Hedges & trees cut decorating Drives jet washed Grass cutting Tiling Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced

Slj

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992

I

Paul Comer on 321981 or 07775 840236

30 y ears plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

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For free quote call

E-mail: towetplumbheat@aol.com

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

Plastering • Carpentry Tiling • Kitchens Bathrooms

and guttering

mark.cryer@ntlworld.com

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Small or large jobs welcome

DJ

Plumbing & Heating Servic Gas & Heating Engineer

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

EXTERIOR PAINTING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

^•

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DECORATO R

FRS ESTIMA S

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BUILDING SERVICES

Telephone/fax: 01793 874 807

077 '- 9 964433

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Paul Rhind Conservatories, fascias

Free estimates

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

B UILDING SERVICES

UPVC windows St doors

Tiling

Bathroom and kitchen installations

•

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Quality bathroom s fitted - tiling, electrics,

BUILDING SERVICES

A.Clr^ s

Services Swindon based specialists in home refurbishment & renovation for private owners, landlords and corm crcial

• Interior/exterior painting .5 decorating • Domestic cleaning. restoration & repairs • Gardens cleared and landscaped • Friendlh. reliable and trnstworthy service A-Class Services for more info r mation on info@a-classservices.com E - mail

or call Sam on 07780 777477 www.a-classservices.com

GENERAL MAINTENANCE QP SERVICES All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved

• Bathrooms & kitchens • Plumbing • Electrical

• Carpentry • Fascia/ cladding • Painting

Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens

I

MAINTENANCE

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Patios • Handymen • Extensions Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170

Tel: 01793 434184 • 07719 272393 www.gereralmaintenanceservices.co.uk

• Reliable • Trustworthy

Our reputation is built on your satisfaction

• Affordable

(calls charged at local rate)

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CARPENTRY

CARPENTRY

1 S P ro perty Services

;& Qairpontrty Ser vn <es

Name & Garden Imorovements

General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance Office: 01793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

O Fitted bedrooms and kitchens -D Replacement ;) doors & staircases O Laminate floors ,D Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRI CIAN

ELE CTRICIAN

SAFE & SHAW

Dave Ody

ELECTRICAL SERVICES 3 EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS 3 SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS 3 GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS 3 SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED 3 FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT 3 COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE: 07769

PartP

883717 TEL: 01793 876029

HEATIN G & PLUMBING

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

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLASTERING

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

*

Tel: 01793 849010

Mobile: 07976 572905

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

HOME MAINTENANCE

CA RPENTRY

DECORATOR

CAEPENTWI

JAMES O'SULLIVAN

* Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions A- Doors & windows * All carpentry work ^aE i^0 •- Stairs Shop fitting specialist

Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing & Plastering

Z

Established 22 Years

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

For a professional finish telephone 07971347345 (m ob) or 616933

FLOORING

HEATING & PLUMBING RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

All aspects

off looring:

wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

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

now for a free, at home consultation

11 07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers

• Competitive rates

All work guaranteed • No job too small •

For further details R call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Reg: 203455

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVI C ES

Steve George

1^ 0i1^ JJ JJ Pointing and decorating Floor & wall tiling

o

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

Garden maintenance

Turfing, fencing, patios Upvc double glazing Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Carpentry services

Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

`,L KITC

°'S FITTE (Howdens.

Jewsons etc.)

Building work • Plastering • Free survey • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture 30 years experienced tradesrnun

APPROVED

PLUMBING

ROOFING

TILING

NEED A PLUMBER?

HOUSEMARTI N

GILES BROS

• FELT ROOFING • ASPHALT ROOFING SHEET ROOFING TILING • SLATING 0 SINGLE PLY • FASCIA • GUTTERING

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

GB Plumbing Services for all your domestic plumbing needs: leaks, burst pipes, radiators, immersions, hot water cylinders, taps, toilets, tanks, ball valves and bathroom installations.

Call 01793 524200

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

CALL NEIL ON

Call Mike

01793 700436 07725 028776

on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

44

ACCOUNTANCY

CHARTERED CERTIFIED

ACCOUNTANTS

01793 610008

Specialising in: • Small Businesses • Tax advice, planning and payroll • All aspects of accountancy and business development • We offer a personal service with very competitive rates

or visit www.dykebrading.co.uk to see how we can help your business

J

Aerial & Television

AERIALS

Services

to

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS Satellite TV * Sky & digital terrestial

one

r

vt

'Dusted

Domestic Cleaning Services

Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured NC a' • Quickly usable

Weekly Fortnightly Monthly

All work guaranteed Call Neil Provis on

SKY

01225 706379

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Corn Master's it

PC Repairs Free home & business visits Jargon free advice & support -i Upgrades/repairs =i= All parts & labour guaranteed i Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends Tel: 01793 422534 or

Project manager Mandy

Mobile: 0792 005 6077 r

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Acms

J(5'HN*S

LVe

Z1 Find local trades peo e Local Trades People Wanted will help you to find reliable local suppliers.

Don't waste time and money on phone calls... just log on to www.LTPW.COM Advertise your requirements online FREE (normally £1.00) and suppliers will contact you.

Simply choose the best supplier.

View previous customer ratings of suppliers and their work.

Great for supplier references

07947-831378 01793-887883

n- 2-u.

corn

OVEN CLEANING

MINI BUS HIRE

LTPW operates a feedback system for customers and a right of reply for trades people.

Home Computer Help

www.donendusted.co.uk

Email cliff hiteway@btinterneLCOm

Feedback system

interference lately? Tetra fitters fitted

* Storm damage

charge

Mob: 07909 500724 17 Utcombe Avenue, Wroughton

TV repairs • Freeview installation • Noticed Signal amplifiers No call out

Why go anywhere else?

When we'll come to you.....

Tel: 01793 814782

• TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points •

* Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

COMPUTER SU

The Carpet &

You'll be amazed how affordable it is ...call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

CHRIS PAYNE

Tel: 01193 100018 Mobile: 0111 6236415

CLEANING

f Whiteway

AERIAL SER VIC ES

—

Located off the A419. ample parking 16 Dorcan Business Village. Murdock Road.

Swindon SN3 5HY

CARPET CLEANING

AERIAL SERVICES

^Rr

Find your next customer LTPW provides hot leads.

Search free, by job type/category or by post code.

Identify the jobs that are of nterest to you and get customer contact details for £1.00

and all occasions, we cater

for 1 to 8 passengers

a division of Cotoneaster Ltd

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time.

Call for a competitive quote now!

Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills

Tel: 01793 703899

also undertaken

SECURITY SYSTEMS

o° Mrvm n60

Y

Electronic Security Solutions O INTRUDER ALARMS O CCTV SYSTEMS O FIRE ALARMS 0 EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS O ACCESS CONTROL O ENTRY SYSTEMS O GATE AUTOMATION

WWW.LTPW.COM

i Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

From Swindon to...

Gatwick - Heathrow Bristol - Birmingham Stansted For family holidays, business trips

s,

VNCLEANS

For a free, no obligation quotation tel: 01793 705216

ssaib

45

AIRPORT TRAVEL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

REMIER

AIRPORT Connect Ltd Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for holiday makers

lectri cs

s30 year 30 year

Guaranteed repairs to

all makes of domestic

appliances

Competitive prices

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Can't face

I

JfA! !.

Same day, local service wherever possible

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

Member Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service • Spare s • Repairs

Same day/next day set-vice

GARAGE DOORS

MG ©m L pDG

BUTTON AND DRIVE IN

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements

or for information on installation and repairs

01793 513796 email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk 10% discount with th, dveri

SECURITY SYSTEMS

WHITE VAN MAN -_' security systems IM Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

•

e: info@oseset^lf ^ssaib

www,osesecur it y.com

TV INSTALLATION

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

WIRING & INSTALLATION & TUNING

GOGGLEBOX

Free estimates, no obligation

Call Andy on 07900 981144 email: asinstallations@fsmail.net

or 07957 820064

SICK?

• 24 Hour Monitorine

Long/short distance

NO JOB TOO SMALL Also odd jobs & lawn mowing Free estimates Call Danny on 01793 702407

Is Your Bed Making You

• CCTV • Access Control & intercoms • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers

Disposal of unwanted items House clearance

of TVs, DVD players, Hi-Fi's, surround sound, LCD & plasma systems and videos

GARDEN & HOUSEHOLD CLEARANCE

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon

Tel: 01793 435392

Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 828700 Mobile: 07796 236436

C* CLEAR AWAY

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE

• No call out charge

Single items moved an ywhere in Swindon for £20

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

See our displays at

• CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe lining • Locally based - competitive rates

REMOVALS

books after a hard day's work?

GARDEN CLEARANCE JUST PULL UP, PRESS A

° o o

doing the

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Tel:01793 469300 DRAINS

BOOK-KEEPING

TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

If your mattress is more than 2.-year old, the answer is probably yes!

YOU COULD BE SLEEPING WITH MILLIONS OF DUST MITES! Call us today for a F REE, No-Obligation

Mattress Contamination test. * Free home estimates

* No call out charge All repairs guaranteed

Sil

enn t . I [tires ntullres.s clerutirrr lot health

Tel: /11 793 639423

Aamcnee

67980 016829

Tel:

01793-812738

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Place your free classifieds

The Link Magazine • August 2006

46

For Sale

To Let

As new matching office furniture Two desks, 3 draw filing pedestal, two low level cupboards. £500 ono Tel: 07860 414438

Two first floor fully furnished offices. incl. networked computers, in Haydon Wick.

Let together or separately Tel: 722002 for details

Piano

5.D. UphoLstenj

Lessons for all ages & all levels

Repairs & Recovering

Miss Chier Chang BMus. (Honsi, PGCE

01793 879391 Freshbrook, Swindon

Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive prices

Art hangs in high places Former Greendown School pupil Craig Tiley has a painting hanging in the National Portrait Gallery, London.

Craig, from Freshbrook, has become a renowned railway, motoring and aviation artist. His picture Graham portrays his art teacher at Swindon College and he is one of 56 artists selected from over 1,000 entries to the BP portrait competition. www.npg.org.uk/live/bp2006exh.asp

www.railwayartist.co.uk

Letters to The Link I Appreciation for dealing with graffiti From Jacky Pickett, Chancellor Close, Grange Park

LET US STEAM THROUGH YOUR IRONING

Ls diard tronin9 Services Free collection & delivery, reliable & friendly Regular or ad-hoc service • 24 hour turnaround Hangers available

Tel: 01793 725061

Just to say a big thank you to Greendown Local collection & delivery 24 hour turnaround Competitive rates Call 01793 422032 Mobile: 07901 886370

P5 SERVIEES PAINTING & DECORATING GENERAL MAINTENANCE No job too small Free estimates Call Phil on 827557 Mobile: 07790 102280

DISC SERVICES :' Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ

CURTAINS TO SATISFY EVERY REQUIREMENT ' • Free estimating, design and advice • Home visits by appointment • Make - up and fitting servic

1 S

}

School children for

conducting a community clean-up.

After over a year of asking the council to clean up the graffiti in Grange Park I was delighted to drive to work one morning and not Battling grime in Grange Park be greeted by the BT was only through the July Link junction box covered in graffiti.

I mistakenly thought it was the that I realised it was not the councouncil that had organised the cil.

Please pass on my heart felt clean up and wrote and thanked them. Needless to say they did not thanks to Greendown and let's write back and put me straight. It hope the area stays graffiti free.

?AeIwoii% 6Y/hc/tt^ CJ^^ndP^xc^at^x«^ YOUR LOCAL PVC-U MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it

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• High security • 10 year guarantee

AND

• Lowest prices

BLINDS OFALL KINDS = • Wooden • Venetian J • New linen • Roman • Verticals • Roller • New Eastern materials

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JNG OUTSIDE THE SHOWROOM RICKLADE RD or call Tracey or Aimanda on 01193 011051

Why not let us handle everything from start to finish?

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

@ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • August 2006

47

Marvel at the museum in August For the first time the Science Museum at Wroughton is going to open every day from 10am to 4.30pm in August to show off its collection of items that have changed the world through science and technology.

In its giant hangars can be found bike, the famous Blue Peter 1 life- day to take visitors on guided tou rs the massive Lockheed 749 Con- boat, a 1958 fire engine and some of the storage hangers, answer any stellation airliner that toured with icons from recent BBC2 TV series questions and shed light on the the Rolling Stones in the 70s, the the Peoples Museum, fascinating stories behind the imworld record breaking Lotus sports Expert staff will be on hand each portant objects.

Events in August include a classic car weekend (5th and 6th) and an environmental weekend from India link opens eyes in Shaw 26 to 28 August. This will be a Can schooling be considered hard in Swindon? chance to explore all things green, Really it's a doddle compared to as well as discover the 545 acre site what children have to experience r just below the Ridgeway. in Vellore, South India according For details of Science Museum to church mission worker Ann " ^^•^ • events call 846200.

Bothamley MBE who visited Holy www.nmsiwroughton.org.uk Trinity Church, Shaw in early July to talk to families and members of the Phase youth group and Shaw Guides.

She runs the Balanilayam hostel and school for 18 children of medical and mission workers from Ann Bothamley, right, talking to Holy Trinity member and Swindon nurse across the country.

Rebecca Kershaw She spoke of the enormous competition to secure places at good ble for opening and running a schools in India where there are rhenal transplant unit and a chiloften thousands of applications for dren's haemotology unit. The idea just a few dozen places. for the hostel and school came to "I asked the young people how her while working there, to prowould you like to get up at 5am to vide children of church workers a be at school by lam, then study at quality education within a family home after supper until 9pm, 10pm environment. or 11pm at night," Ann explained.

Ann's visited Shaw six years ago.

"It's very, very pressured, the com- On this occasion she introduced petition is huge." the children to khoko, Indian Ann received an MBE for her sweets dripped in syrup. She deprevious work at Vellore's pres- parted with a long list of e-mail tigious Christian Medical Centre addresses so that she can set up hospital where she was responsi- links with children in Vellore.

Evange ji 01\1-

O 'wotgley Road `^J

building with people

Sunday services are at IOam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050;

e-mail: offi ce@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org the gift of God is Eternal l.if i • " (Romans 6

r2$

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School ^THAMESDOWN DRIV E^;.

Abbat Meade community Pnmary School • t Aboey

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints', Lydiard Millicent

Prayers from the sky

Holy Trinity, Shaw

Members of St Andrew's Church off Tadpole Lane celebrated Pentecost and the gift of the Holy Spirit in June by launching balloons across North Swindon, each bearing dreams and prayers for the community.

St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

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

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John's Haydon Wick

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipofficeklbtopenworld. cone

newfront ^.

swindonfamilychhurch' The Alpha Course — Explore Christianity Babies & Toddlers — Wednesday Mornings Kid's Church & Youth Work

Sunday Services gam Traditional communion service 11am Eventful, contemporary worship with children's groups meeting

•

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•:

Alpha

Sundays 10.30am Family friendly worship and Bible teaching The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea

lie!: 01 793 526130

www.swindonfamilychurch.org.uk

BROOME MANOR Golf

&C m

Complex

01793 433290

HEALTH HYDRO 01793 465630

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01793 511033

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croft sports centre

01793 526622

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01793 706666

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01793 445566

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$W1i1D0T1 01793 465401

01793 762607

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