A Happy Christmas to all our readers west Swindon's
Magazine THE
LINK No. 105 • December 1990 • Circulation 10,500
WEST SWINDON- LEISURE CENTRE OF THE SOUTH WEST
1. 1 ii flU lb 1 U I iJ CAFE BAR RESTAURANT
• iZZa P 41uto
Shaw Ridge Tavern Open early December
NQW QIEN West Swindon As Our Look out for local dancers Community in Christmas special
Young TV stars Carrie-Anne Chipperfield and Kelly Rayment
Christmas is going to be special for two local youngsters when they see themselves on the Russ Abbott Christmas Day Special tv show. Carrie-Anne Chipperfield, 6, from Shaw, and Kelly Rayrnent, 9, from Sparcells spent four days in September rehearsing and filming at the BBC Television Centre with six other children from Swindon's Mollie Tanner Dance School. Carrie-Anne, who attends Brookfield School, and Kelly, from Shaw Ridge School, travelled to the studios every day, with different mums acting as chaperones. "It wasn't hard work," said Carrie-Anne, "but we didn't have much time to learn the part. You had to pick it up quickly and do things at the right time."
Kelly was impressed by Russ Abbott. "He was very kind and made lots of jokes all the time. He's a very funny man. He's just like he is on television." TheChristmas Day show, which will be shown at 515p.m., features the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tales with the children wearing beautifully made costumes. Both girls have been dancing at the Tanwood School since they were two and have performed in a rangeof stage, filmand pantomime work. Kelly is a junior associate at the Royal Ballet School and hopes to be a dancer or actress one day. Unfortunately Carrie-Anne sustained a knee injury in November which means she's has to take things slowly.
The many and varied problems and challenges presented by the rapid growth of a new community were revealed at the two day conference held at the Link Centre at the beginning of November. It was the first time a meeting What they said was honest, coninvolving representatives from cerned and gave a realistic picture agencies working in the area and of the community. residents had been organised to "It was a very successful confertake a good look at the social dience and personally I would like to see a similar meeting taking place mensions of the area. Sixty people annually or every 18 months." took part, 30 of whom live locally. Speakers fromEducation, Health • Commitments for action from and Social Services and the comthe conference. Headteacher remunity at large pointed to the conceives thanks forhonestcomments. tinuing problems of isolation and Media attention. Page 22 and 23. loneliness that many residents feel, and the difficulties some have of establishing themselves in the area. Three Competitions The discussions made it clear for Christmas that, whilst there are many organiFor Under 7's & under 12's sations catering for a range of interests, and residents outwardly apTry our colouring pear to have a good quality of life, competition sponsored the pressures of living in modem by local insurance society is taking its toll on many consultants Mansfield people. Financial pressures, debt Begble Associates on and keeping up appearances conpage 23. tribute to the stress that many households are under. The isolaAnd there's a word search tion felt by black people and the for under il's from the subtle racism that sometimes takes Midland Bank on place were also identified as a page 19. problem for minority groups. Reverend John Flory, joint conFor all ages, ference organiser, said the event try the crossword from had exceeded expectations. "We didn't really know what would Pizza Hut on page 25. happen as it was the first occasion There's £100 worth of where residents and caring agenpizzas on offer. cies were being brought together.
Organise 1991 with us Find yc rLink Magazine year p!anner distributed with this edition
Children in Need 1990
Pets-At-Home Swindon 873062 Sheila Mitchell would like to wish all her customers a Very Happy Christmas and a Successful New Year.
The Link Centre was taken over by BBC Wiltshire Sound to coordinate all manner of wild and wacky events which raised a record amount of money nationally. Here are just four photos from a day of fun for a good cause.
1
Left:Thomas Ryman from Westminster Roo.d, Toothill has his teddy checked over byzet Simon Woolfenson and nurseJaneHopkinson from the Archway Veterinary Centre at Wroughton. Right: Kerry Stone from Beverley, Toothill seems quite comfortable with Herman the Boo from Longleat wrapped around her.
LOSE YOUR EXCESS POUNDS WITH CAMBRIDGE DIET EXTRA Contact Your Counsellor Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on Swindon 873201
THE
Cá'hibrldOe DIET
GET YOUR CHRISTMAS BARGAINS AT WEST SWINDON'S GREAT MARKET LINK CENTRE COACH PARK EVERY TUESDAY • 9am - 3.30pm Free Parking, Exciting Stalls Good Selection of Fresh Food
Below left: Is he on his way upordown? Parliamentary hopeful and Thamesdown Council's deputy lPflder Jim D 'Avila took to the Link Centre climbing wail. Right: Marie Dun-ant from Sparcells holds on Jodi Steenaart ofFreshbrook on the back of The Irishman, with Olympic Three Day Event rider Rodney Powell.
Town & Country Markets Tel: 0633 216065 A member of APMO
SWI*m 411 Whtb& AáÜ tV THIS dn"ItiftMAt Bringing You The Best Choice in Satellite Television 6 Broadcast Channels in good picture quality 10 FM Radio Stations Wf
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Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793
g Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting by Keystrokes Electronic Design Printed by Western Webb, Bristol Published monthly.
Copy date for the January edition: 18th of December. The January edition will be published on 4 January
"The Unk was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."
Contents 4 Boogie down to Pinkerton's 6 Toothill 7 Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 Westlea 10 Cairo's is special 12 Shaw 13 Arts Scene 14 At Your Library 16 Recreation 20 Education Matters 22-23 West Swindon Conference 29 Home & Garden 30 Letters & Small Ads.
The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.
The Mayor's Appeal at Christmas From The Mayor of Thamesdown, Councillor Derek Montaut As Christmas approaches it is my pleasure to follow the practice of my predecessors and appeal for help for the more needy members of our community and it is my intention to devote the proceeds of the Appeal to the Mayor of Thamesd own's Helping Hand Fund. The Fund assists individuals and families 'in need' and 'in crisis' with what most people regard as the very basic necessities of life, i.e. beds, bedding, furniture, white goods and clothing. There are no specific age groups assisted but the main categories helped are children, the disabled, the sick and the elderly. Help towards holidays is also given in exceptional circumstances. All the people helped are in genuine need and suffering severe social and financial problems. Unfortunately, people in Thamesdown are suffering more crisis problems than ever this year - the Fund has needed to help twice the number it did last year. I am aware that there are many calls on your generosity from a host of worthy causes. But it is said that "charity begins at home" and I hope you will agree with me that one of our first duties is to assist those in need right here in the Borough. Please be generous. Send your contributions to me at the Mayor's Parlour, Civic Offices, Swindon SNI 2JH, with cheques made payable to 'The Mayor's Christmas Appeal.' Your contribution will be gratefully acknowledged.
What will 1991 bring? Nearly fifteen years ago the first It always seems to be far too early to express the seasons greetings to our residents moved in. It's still transit readers. But as a monthly publica- area for some who have little intention this is our only chance to greet tion of putting down roots. But for a large number, West Swindon has you. Conveniently, however, the De- become their home and are pleased cember edition coincides with the to live here. There is always room for improvanniversary of The Link, so it's an ing the quality of life forall, particuopportunity to review the year. This edition marks thetwelfthyear larly for those who are disadvanof publication for the magazine, a taged or feel excluded from their successful one where we have been surroundings. TheLink's role is to make a contriable to consolidate ourselves as a vital part of West Swindon's com- bution, with many others, to the process of developing our young munications network. In terms of the facilities in the community. It is always gratifying area, we have seen the opening of to listen tocomnnts fromresidents our own fire station, a new church at which confirm our efforts and we Freshbrook, the unusual Chinese thank you for them. May we wish all our readers a Experience restaurant and the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park. peaceful Christmas time and a Happy New Year. After the enormous changes that have taken place in Eastern Europe since this time last year, and the recent changes on our own domestic, political front, who knows what 1991 is going to bring.
3
5_6 Ooar, Coair, Personal Introductions in the Swindon area for single, separated, divorced or widowed people who want to make a new start.
Š Swindon 487761
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Do you want to look the \ 7 '4be\of H the ball' at your Christmas party this year? You do? Then come to us! If it's spectacular gowns and chic cocktail dresses, or tailored suits and designer day wear, we will design and make ANY exclusive outfit for you. Or for that ultimate Christmas present, try our pure silk lingerie. Call Elaine & Vikki on 542368 econdit ioned bikes also for sale
Who would have believed that the untouched field photographed in our November edition last year could have been turned into such a massive attraction? During the year we were able to publish the results of a survey of residents undertaken in the magazine in 1989. It showed that those who responded thought West Swindon was a good place to live. However, last month the conference to look at our community identified the struggle many people have to keep their lives on an even keel.
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HY YOU CUT THAfl IN TH WIRT= WZZT Z7 ZWIN=ZNT Pinkerton's Cafe Bar and Restaurant has opened its doors for business and you can bet your bottom dollar you ain't seen nothin' like this before! Leave the convertible at the parking lot and make for the doors where the genu-ine Model T Ford marks your entry to a New World experience. Before you go in, straighten those seams and tilt that Homberg, 'cos there ain't gonna be no scruffs in this joint. The Pinkerton's hostesses will direct you to your table, or if you're cravin' some liquid refreshment (and you're over 21), head for the bar. In the cafe bar be prepared to eyeball some real mean dudes. Butch Cassidy, Sundance, and even 01' Scarface Capone are all \, hanging out here somewhere. But don't let those violin 4
PINKERTON'S CAFE BAR RESTAURANT
cases put you off - police truncheons and handcuffs are scattered around to keep things on the straight 'n' narrow and Pinkerton's finest are on hand.
Atthe centre ofthings, the B1gWcsFrankMacAlinden with assistants Gavin Car, left and Mark Lafayette Left: Darren and Gary demonstrate bar flare Right: Some of the girls who passed the audition
PINK ERTON"S CAFE BAR REST EJEANT
The wildest action is behind the bar where you can have your cocktail mixed with style. So just step up and name your poison - Blue Murder, Snake Oil, Yellowbelly Daiquiri they all pack a punch, so go for it? If you prefer your liquor straight you can choose from a range of ONCE A BLIND MAN premium beers from WHO USED TO BEG AT ONE SIDE OF CENTRAL around the world. On PARK. HE SAT THERE WITH HIS HAT ON THE the wagon? No GROUND READY TO RECEIVE ANY DONATIONS. problem. Make your HE ALSO HAD A SIGN WHICH READ: I AM BLIND. choice from a selection ONE FINE MORNING IN EARLY SPRING, A of Low Alcohol or COPYWRITER PASSED BY ON THIS WAY TO WORK. alcohol free beers and HE BENT DOWN, WROTE SOMETHING ON THE cocktails, loosely SIGN AND PASSED ON. known as The Good THAT EVENING, HE PASSED BYAGAIN ON HIS Guys. WAY HOME.
THERE WAS
When you can no longer ignore those pangs of hunger you can eat In the cafe bar or mosey on through to one of the restaurant areas. Join Pinkerton's agents providing security for Barnum and Bailey's wold-famous circus, enjoy a glamourous interlude mixing with the stars of the Silver Screen, or ride shotgun on the 01' Iron Horse - the choice is yours. Now get an eyeful of the biggest menu in the West - can you handle it? There ain't no easy choices here. From the First Shot to the End of the Road we are talldn' serious eatin'l Red River Prawns, Texas Prawns, Texas Rangers, Jack the Ribber, Jailbait - the names are as colourful as the dishes. Tantnlising starters, Tex Mex, hefty meat dishes, City Slickersalads, The Untouchables super-snacks - all tastes are catered for. The burgers are 100% - prime ground beef and served with a variety of side salads, dressings and dips. If you can't make up your mind why not share or sample several different dishes? Go on, make a meal of 'emi The mega-puds are guaranteed to really finish you off, from Betty Grable cheesecake to a St Valentine's Day massacre of strawberries and Ice cream. The young 'uns have a menu of their own with drinks from Pinkerton's soda gun and ice cream desserts. Sit back and relax with a glass of fine wine or a steamln' mug of coffee, but keep your eye on the staff. These guys an' gals weren't just interviewed for the job - no slree, they were auditioned. So watch for all sorts of antics, especially when Frank 'Big Boss' McAllnden rings that bell! All in all you won't be forgettin' this experience in a hurry, so go cash in those Pinkerton's Dollar Bills - before The Mob gets there first?
'HOW WAS YOUR DAY?' HE ENQUIRED OFTHE BLIND MAN. 'FANTASTIC; CAME THE REPLY, 'NEVER DONE SO WELL. WHAT DID YOU WRITE ON THE SIGNZ' 'I ADDED A FEW WORDS TO YOUR SIGN, SO IT READ: IT IS SPRING AND I AM BLIND:
FOR ADVERflSN THAT IS SIMPLY MORE EFFECTIVE TALK TO MICHAEL MAWER
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suppliers of the Cash Register System to Pinkertons, wish them all the best on the opening of their exciting new Cafe Bar Restaurant. ebm Cash Registers, Microwave Ovens & Catering Equipment
RED are advertising and design EorEKKItontK to Morlond & Co_ p1
337 Long Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex Tel: (0895) 30556/7 9 Fax: (0895) 810563
WIFLI%TqrEI Gangs of fun and food lovers to enjoy THE WILDEST COCKTAILS IN THE WEST
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your horsepower and follow the map for a bang-up meal and the hottest time you've ever hadwith your boots on.
RE WARD
Belly up to Pinkerton's and cash in these Pinkerton's Dollar vouchers for a handsome saving.
This voucher entitles one toD5oflanymn mealtortwo OnlyO0en0b00Il No cash equ'valent, Valid only br stated prodUCt. Otter closes 20 Dec. 1990. I confirm Iam over 18 years of age. eON OFFICt uSE ONLY) MONAGERS S)SNAIUBE
900E_— yüORC55
BILL No __POST
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71 Trnsvru her echOes me rr co off any coclrtad Only one voucher per vIsIr No cash quraalent Vaird only or stated product.oueocloses200ec 1890 ontrrm lam over 18 years of age
DET AL I
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ADDRESS
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OFFER EXPIRES DECEMBER 20, 1990. OPENING HOURS
Monday-Saturday 11.30am-11.00pm (restaurant & bar) Sunday 1200pm- 1030pm (restaurant) 12.00pm-3.00pm & 700pm- 1030pm (bar)
Pinkerton's Café Bar Restaurant, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, • Swindon, Wiltshire SN5 7ND. Telephone: 0793 876020.
4
TOOTHILL
6
RALPH PALMER PHARMACY 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m. 2.30p.m. - 6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. -12 noon Telephone: 512063
TSP
hristmas Show with local entertainers Gaffer & Willis,, Toothill Community Centre. 15 December, 8pm to late. Tickets £2 from Toothill Community Centre
OAP thanks
Playgroup places
VAN HIRE 7cwt. TO LUTONS MINI-BUSES (12) DRIVERS AVAILABLE CAR }E MICRA - ROVERS 3 MONTH HIRE FROM £62 PER WEEK
Toothill Lunch Club raised £104.88 at their bazaar 3 November. The money will be used to organise a Christmas party on 12 December. The club would like to thank all who contributed to their funds.
Dunwich Drive Playgroup in Toothill Community Centre has places available fromJanuaxy. Ring Sue Alexander for more information on 875727 or drop in before 14 December.
M: KAIHIRE 610188
Bonfire night fun
Cheney Manor Trading Estate
Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food TakeAway Menu
Tel: 487055 Closed: 24th to 26th December Re-open 27th December
r
Hours of Business Sunday 6 -11.3Oam Monday Closed all day Tuesday 5 -11.3Opm Wednesday 12- 1.45pm 5- 11.30pm Thursday 12 - 1.45pm 5 - 11 .3Opm Friday 12 - 1.45pm 5 - 12.00am Saturday 12 - 2.00pm 5 - 12.00am
41
STORM MANAGEMENT SERVICES Storm Technical & Industrial Division
TEMPS • TEMPS • TEMPS COME ON DOWN AND SAY HELLO TO MIKE & JULIE
U WAREHOUSE OPERATORS U FORK LIFT DRIVERS U ANCILLARY WORKERS U STORES PEOPLE U PICKERS/PACKERS U VAN DRIVERS U EVENING SHIFT WORKERS STORM INTO 1990 WITH S.M.S.
The Right Choice Office Hours: Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.30pm Sat. 9am - 12 noon 32 Morley Street, Swindon, Wilts.
Tel: (0793) 480693
The crowds reel back from the dance of the dragon which took place before the fireworks on 2 November Miriam Minty, Neighbourhood Worker for Toothillwrites:
There was an encouraging turn out at the 13th Annual Community Bonfire at Toothill on Friday 2 November, despite it being a cold wet, November evening. Spectators were treated to a magical display of pirouetting bats and colourful lantern carriers, weaving in and out of the formidable castle structure which formed the centre piece for this year's event. The drama culminated in a swashbuckling duel between the evil dragon and the brave turtle hero, Leonardo. This was followed by an extremely loud and colourful ariel firework display, released into the skies of Toothill by fearless Eddie East, Celia McKenna and the rest of the firework crew. The bonfire itself was as magnificent as ever, with much effort being put into the building of the structure, by local people, especially the local youngsters from the area and theLinkArtsTeam,Meland Aaron. The event was made really special by the presence during the week of the Western Area Playschemes (WASPS) at Toothill Farm, providing many local children with the opportunity to make guys, masks and models. Marie Brett, a community artist also kept many youngsters spellbound with lantern making and monster masks. Of course there are many thank yous to say to everyone who got involved this year with the event,
first and foremost the local people and youngsters who helped with the building of the bonfire and on the night, such as Betty, Mr Murdoch, Chris Wood, Simon, Andrew, Laurence and many more. Many thanks to St Johns Ambulance during the evening. Also our thanks go to: Brunel Cases who supplied the pallets for the bonfire West Safe Fire Protection who provided fire extinguishers and blankets; Parragon Laundry who donated sheeting for the costumes and castle; BritishTelecom for installing four spent telegraph poles around which the bonfire was constructed; Kathy Geddes, a dance instructor, whose pupils danced on the night; WASPS organisers, Marie Brett and Fergus Mercer Link Arts and the Play Service Toothill After School Club, who with Tony Hillier, provided a delicious catering service (food supplied by Link Caterers); Brett and the Wyvern Thea tre for organising the lighting and sound; A big thank also, to all who offered moral support to me, on this my first Toothill bonfire. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves. The only thing left to say is if anyone wants toget involved innextyear's event, call me, it's never to early to start planning!!
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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Movie gets youngsters painting P B PLUMBING the Turtles have a pizza delivery to The recent launch of the Teenage SERVICES Mutant Ninja Turtles film got the youngsters who attend 'Faces,' Freshbrook's Saturday morning kids club really excited. Out came their pencils and paints to draw and colour three almost life sized paintings of their green skinned, sewer living, pizza eating hems. Club organiser Wendy Grieves said many of the children who attend Faces are keen turtle fans. "They'vebeen making small turtles drawings for weeks but then we decided to go really big and paint some life-sized pictures. In the film
their sewer from Dominos, and as we have a Dominos in the area, we decided to ask them to look at our work." Mike Price from Dominos, who lives in Freshbrook, visited Faces with a reward of pizzas for their work. "They're brilliant pictures, almost like the real thing," he said. Between thirty and forty youngsters attend Faces between 10a.m. and 12 noononaSaturday morning at Freshbrook Community Centre for a morning of painting, making, indoor games, football and outings.
Mike Price from Dominos is pictured in the centre with the turtle painting youngsters and club organiser Wendy Grieves on the left.
Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 215pm - 630pm Tuesday 9am - 1pm; 215pm - 5pm Saturday 9am - 12noon
Boilers Serviced Pump Fitting Service Water Sofiners Fitted Washing Machines & Dishwashers Installed
Telephone: (0793) 642995
Christmas reetin5s from all at
Fnrsex Hair Salon
Open Christmas Eve & New Years Eve 9am - 3pm Freshbrook Village Centre 11 873217
Great start for Thrift Shop The Gear Box thrift shop at Freshbrook School which opened at the beginning of November and is proving to be a great success. The shop sells clothes in good condition, toys and household items (but no electrical goods). Items are sold on behalf of owners for 75% of the price, with the other 25% going to school funds. Gear Box opens on Monday and Friday3p.m. and 4p.m., in the Chatterbox mobile. Gear Box volunteer helpers, from left, Karen Walker, Julie Webb, Vicki Webb and sitting Sue McAllister
something
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thurday Friday Saturday
9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 9pm 9am - 7pm 8.30am 1.3Opm
CARTER, GOVIER, READ SOLICITORS Contact us for all your legal. needs including house sales & purchases, matrimonial matters and criminal law 34 - 35 Commercial Road, Swindon Tel: 617617
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97 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret Telephone: 826821
To Cirenceste
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Swindon
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Opening Times Sat. lOam - 5pm; Sun. 2pm - 5pm Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri. 9am 5pm Wed. 9am - 1pm
WESTLEA
8 Is
IRONING A CHORE? Why not ring Carol's Ironing Service on 770925 Charges: £3 per hour
LOSE WEIGHT QUICKLY AND SAFELY FOR SPRING Call your Counsellor Glenis at
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L
Cash helps children go into print Money raised in the first half of the year has been put to good use at Westlea School. I rcal insurance broker Mansfield Begbie Associates ran a raffle in aid oftheSpecial NeedsUnitat Westlea School which was drawn in early July and raised £800. The money has been used to set up a publishing centre so that pupils can turn the stories they write into little booklets. An electric and a manual typewriter with large typefaces have been purchased, along with a binding machine, glue and materials for making book covers, and film. Within two weeks of the equipment's arrival in November, some 40 booklets had been produced said Westlea head teacher Neil Griffiths. "The pupils create stories which they illustrate with photographs they take themselves. The electric typewriter is tremendous for children with manipulating difficulties as the keys only need the slightest touch. "Some of the mums help out with making the covers and when complete the books become part of the classroom material for other children to read. They increase the opportunities for reading and help motivate the children."
Claire Wilkinson shows Mike Rees one of the books produced in the publishing
centre, whilst Charlotte Crozier types a story and welfare assistant Kathy Taylor binds a completed work
Mansfield Begbie Associate director Mike Roes, who lives at Sparcells, said he was pleased by the way the money raised was being used. "I'm very impressed by the work of the children. I'm sure it helps them take pride in their work when they know it's going to be displayed."
Road crossing hope
Pizzarama
!
and
C
sII A
have joined together to bring you a great deal! But hurry, time is limited. See the enclosed leaflet for details.
Fifty placard carrying and banner waving parents and children from Westlea attended Thamesdown Council's public works committee at the end of October, just after the November Link went to press. They were trying to get the Council to make the pedestrian crossing on Corton Crescent, between Westlea and the West Swindon Centre, a priority for action following an accident involving BobbieFrench fromLangstone Way in July. Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths was permitted to make a ten minute presentation to councillors on behalf of the group. He explained that the crossing point is the main route from Westlea to the shopping centre, and every Thursday hundreds of school children have to cross the road to get to swimming lessons at the Link Centre. Mr Griffiths said the committee accepted that the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park development would increase traffic usage on Corton Crescent and agreed to approach the developer for a financial contribution. They would also be contacting ASDA for support towards a pedestrian safety scheme. He added that the response from parents had been superb. There had been more than expected and
many others who could not attend had written letters supporting the call for safety measures to be installed. • Bobbie French has asked us to point out that the photograph we published in September of her at Corton Crescent suggested she was crossing from Westlea. In fact she was knocked down a yard from the curb whilst crossing from the West Swindon Centre to Westlea. However it would have been a bit too dangerous to reconstruct the scene for the photograph.
Fashion show funds Tootleabrook W.I. recently held a fashion show atHardings nightclub which raised £500 for the group's nominated charity, the 'Music for Living' project at Purton.
Concert in aid of the Prospect Foundation organised by the Link 45+ Club Saturday 16 February 2pm - 4.30pm Link Arts Studio Tickets £1 from Mr Bowles on 694425
.;:,~ Ze -~G
MORTGAGE AND
1-1 Associates
-
Mansfield Begbie Associates
INSURANCE SERVICES Everybody involved with Mansfield Begbie Associates would like to thank all our clients for their support in the past 12 months and we wish everybody in the West Swindon community a happy and peaceful t Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Pensions Have you got a frozen pension from previous employment? Have you taken advantage of the Government's incentives on contracting out of S.E.R.P.S (State Earnings Related Pension Scheme)? Are you taking advantage of the tax benefits on personal pension contributions? Why not ring us to find out how to make the most of your retirement benefits. (Whether you are aged 20 or 50 it would still make sense to review your present pension requirements).
Mortgages We have had a number of enquiries regarding the '2% off special discount advertised in the November edition of The Link and are pleased to announce that this offer is to continue. Please ring for a free quotation. We can also confirm that there have been changes to the low-start scheme for mortgages and remortgages that have made it even more attractive to borrowers wishing to reduce their monthly out goings. Please ring us for your free advice and quotation.
WE CHARGE NO ARRANGEMENT FEES Swindon 873369 (2 lines) or 827725 We also cater for all other types of insurance including Savings, Motor, Commercial and Household policies. Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Group, member of LLUtJr and I.M.1tO. REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.
Cairo's brings to Swindon something the town has been crying out for. A high quality, reasonably priced nightclub exclusively aimed at an adult market. Cairo's was opened on 28 November by the First Leisure Corporation which operates fortytwo nightclubs across Britain and in Europe. It also runs 22 Superbowls, includingthe newly opened bowling centre above the nightclub on Shaw Ridge, and has wide interests in sports and entertainment centres. From the moment you walk into Cairo's there is a feeling ofopulence, luxury and above all excitement. Altogether £2.2miffion has been spent on fitting out the nightclub and whilst the name evokes images of ancient Egypt, this has been cleverly kept as a flavour so that the past blends easily with the ultra modem. The centre piece is the two level dance floor which is set below the seating area. The U.ICs first fully computer co-ordinated sound and light system is capable of pumping out 20,000 watts of sound from a multiplicity of speakers arranged around the dance floor. A battery of lights are synchronised with the music to generate a spectacular scene. Four bars are located around Cairo's, one serving champagne and
ThERE's N0ThINq RE CAiRO'S Managing Cairo's is Mike Hilkene cocktails exclusively. Shining brass and glass fittings are tastefully offset who lives in Shaw. He's been by fabrics on the ceiling and walls involved with sixteen nightclubs and and a deep carpet. Here and there discos in this country and in France, are the hints ofan ancient culture, a and has been manager of six of gold mummy's head, sculptures of them. Most recently he managed the sphinx and unusual Egyptian the Pagoda Park in Birmingham where he twice won the Discotheque prints on palm leaves. With low lighting levels, a variety ofthe Year Award with AndyFoster, of intimate seating area, it's difficult who is joining him at Cairo's as to imagine that there is a 950 person resident D.J. Mike was amazed by the interest capacity. Some of the staff at Cairo's - ready to entertain
THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC
SOUTHLEAZE XMAS TREES
Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S. West Swindon - Tel: 526780 62 - 64 Purton Road. Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am- 1 lam
Old Town. Tel: 542300 1 Ashford Road (see map) Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Fri. 2pm-3pxi Saturday 5.30pm-6.30pm
*
"I We are here
4.
East Swindon. Tel: 511267 29 Cavendish Square.
24 Hour Emergency & Advice Service
DESPERATE? LONELY? SUICIDAL?
in Cairo's as opening day came closer. "We were inundated with requests for information; it looks as ifwe're going to take offin Swindon. "Our aim is to give people- an incredible experience when they visit Cairo's and we've spent a lot oftime on staff training to make sure this happens. Everybody who works here is in the entertainment business and they've been picking up a lot of showbiz skill. They've also developed an awareness of what is unacceptable customer behaviour so that they can keep the situation calm. What we want to do is give our visitors a happy, exciting evening out with friends which will bring them back again." The market the nightclub is aiming itself at is also very clear says Mike. "There will be a definite emphasis on attracting the mature over 20's. From the reaction we've already had, there's a huge need for high quality facilities where adults can meet and make friends. Our reputation will be established with this adult market because Cairo's is designed to create social interaction. The atmosphere will be entertainment in itself." Cairo's has already been entered for the Discotheque of the Year Award. It's design, atmosphere and aims suggests that there's every chance that it will win.
Wootton :tt
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Road
NORWAY SPRUCE CUT - FROM £5 NORWAY SPRUCE ROOTED - FROM £6 NORDMANN FIRS CUT - FROM £15 GUARANTEED NOT TO SHED NEEDLES AVAILABLE FROM 1ST DECEMBER ORDERS TAKEN • FREE DELIVERY
You don't have to be suicidal to share your problems with us. Phone anytime day or night, or call into 6 Curtis Street, Swindon
RING STEWART BELL ON
5231-34 SOUTHLEAZE SHEEP FARM BEHIND QUEENSWAY & TEXAS AT MAN NINGTON
STOCKING FILLERS ALSO AVAILABLE
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FZTIG H T L B I
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AN OASIS OF ENTERTAINMENT "p
w WAn incredible and exciting experience of sounds and lights V Excellent service in luxurious surroundings W It's the ultimate nightlife adventure
WEDNESDAYS - Club 25- 8pm - 1pm Admission £2 all night THURSDAYS - 8pm - lam Admission £2 before 1030pm - £3 after FRIDAYS-8pm- lam Admission £4 before 1030pm - £5 after SATURDAYS - 8pm - lam Admission £5 before 10pm - £5 after Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon Telephone (0793) 876817 If you wish to receive regular Information on special events and offers avaiIab, please complete below and hand In at reception Name (Mr.Mrs/Miss/Ms) Address Post code Date of Birth
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SHAW
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Nationwide • Estate i 1 Anglia Agents
Sandoes
Are you moving away from the area, but would prefer not to sell your property? Or have you recently moved into the area and are looking for rented accomodation? Then contact Karen Cox for free advice and information about our comprehensive Property Management Service. Sandoes Property Management, a professional service in the letting of all residential property.
Telephone Swindon 882121
'The '14 CCage Inn Shaw '14 (Cage Centre Now booking for Christmas Menu To begin: Heartwarming soup or Prawn and crab cocktail or Melon, orange and pineapple medley Followed by: Traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings or Poached sole in prawn and mushroom sauce or Braised beef in ale And to finish: Christmas pudding with cream or Fresh cream gateau or Selection of cheese & Coffee and mince pies Price per person £11.95. Children (10 years and under) £8.95 Prices inclusive of VAT, Service not included Vegetarian Meals organised on request
For reservations, telephone (0793) 874604
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Choose Us First For the Best Quality Take Home Food Available Fried Freshly For You Cod, Plaice, Haddock, Skate, Huss, Scampi, Chips, Various Pies, Sausages and Chicken. Why not try one of our delicious Curries for a change? Have you had one of our big beefburgers? They're Great. Open Monday - Saturday 11.30am - 2pm; 430pm - 11pm Car Park 'A' Wet Swindon Centre TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME - 870455
Cheese & Wine for Shaw residents Shaw Residents' Association is holding a Christmas Cheese and Wine Party for everybody who lives in the Shaw area. It takes places place on Monday 3 December, 8p.m. in Shaw Community Centre (next to the Doctors surgery) on Ramleaze Drive. All residents are invited.
Party time with Shaw W.I. An invitation from Debbie Griffiths Christmas soon. Getting a parking space in Swindon is as difficult as obtaining a Teenage Mutant Hero Turtle pla stic figure. Both like gold. In the rush, why not take time out to enjoy yourself. Come to our Shaw WI Christmas party on Monday 17 December 730p.m. at Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre. We're havinga Barber Shop Quartet. Use your artistic skills to make a
fancy dress hat. It can be very satisfying to create something which you're able to model yourself. Ring me for more details of the party and Shaw WI on 875725. So, don't forget to put glue, crepe paper, Sellotape, tinsel and 101 items on your Christmas shopping list. Hats over 6 feet tall will be disqualified! Get sticking and good luck. See you there - providing my hat doesn't fall apart over my eyes!
More services needed in the west A 'shop' unit completed two years ground floor unit. The financial ago at Shaw Village Centre is still services sector has slowed, but this empty, despite the need for more means other businessess can consider setting up at reasonable rent services in the area. West Swindon is so tightly levels, certainly lower than price planned that there is no mom for levels experienced during the late small scale office developments 80s. To further reduce overheads, which provide services for residents. our client is going to install a shop The fact that the unit has not been front, having first obtained plantaken up by a business is surprising ning permission. "With a population of around and means that local people still have to make the trip into the town 28,000, West Swindon is now the centre to get the services they need. size of a small town, but doesn't Turning to the letting agents for compare with the range of commeran explanation, Cohn Stribling of cial facilities on offer. I could see a Swindon property agents Hinton personalised service like a solicitor Newport said that market condi- or optician doing well at Shaw. But tions had changed over the last it probably needs somebody to take eighteen months. With a downturn the risk and set up their own indein the economy, this is a good time pendent practice." With interest rates starting to fall for smaller companies to take the initiative as more premises are and banks eager to help new initiatives get off the ground, this could available. "The units at Lucena House, Shaw be a good time for a resident who Centre were conceived as provid- wants to provide a local service to ing a 'shop front' and office facility set up in business. The Shaw unit is on two levels. for the service sector, such as a solicitor,employment ortravel agency, The village centre is easy to get to from all parts of the area and there is optician or insurance broker. "We already have a vet and estate ample free carparking. Any readers agency established there, but it's who want to go for it can contact proving difficult letting the third Cohn Stribling on 534121. Lucena House at Shaw Village Centre
ARTS SCENE Floella's magic arrives soon The Wyvern Theatre's magical pantomime for all the family starts on 14 December and promises to be the most spectacular ever. Television favourite Floella Benjamin and Bucks Fizz singer Bobby C star in a show filled with magnificent costumes and amazing special effects. There are competitions for youngsters and adults on offer, as well as free french fries at McDonalds after the show. Until 24 December there's a chance to visit Santa in 'Aladdin's Cave' at Mcllroys in Regent Street, Swindon. He's there on the first floor from 10a.m. to4.30p.m. every day, except Sunday.
The Wyvern report that Box office bookings are up by 30%, so if you're thinking of going to Aladdin, make up your mind and book now. Bookings can be made over the 'phone by calling 524481, or 694055 for credit cards. Pictured right, HTV presenter Su Porter, who plays the Princess and Derek Hewitson (Abanaza), opened Aladdin's Cave for Santa at Mcli roys in November. Helping out were dancers from the Tanwood School of Dancing. Pictured are Katy Merryfield, Kellie Harding, Jodie Ruddle, Georgina Woodhams, Kelly Rayment, Hannah Johns, Toni Warwick and Sarah McAlister,allfrom West Swindon
PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR
Link Arts in December Recreation Trainee Wendy Beasant Invites you to part In Latin American month at your local arts centre Seasons greetings to you all! The main theme at the Link Arts Studio this month is ...LATIN AMERICA so we hope you will come and join in the live entertainment that we have on offer. Drama Saturday 1st - 'Christmas Without Herods' presented by The Womens Theatre Group. Set in Chile, this brilliant new play explores human rights issues in South America and reveals how Chilean women have been manipulated through the use of their children. 8.00p.m., £3, £4 concessions. Children 'Toyshop' presented by Treble Chance Theatre Co. A pantomimestyle show for 5-11 year olds with plenty of songs and festive fun to join in. 2.30p.m. £2.25. Comedy Thursday 18th -New Comedy with Ian Cognito, Lee Evans and Felix. At last month's New Comedy night, Steve Murray did unspeakable things to poor defenceless teddy bears. If you've not yet recovered from this night, or if you missed it, then we've got just what you need - another night of New Comedy! Be brave, come out of your shells and laugh the night away!
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Saturday 8th - Meli-Antu. A sixpiece band who play traditional instruments. Come and experience the real flavour of Latin America! Food, a bar and dancing will complete the experience. 8.00p.m. £4! £3.
has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar.
& Fancy Dress Corner
BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24 his)
103 Faringdon Road Swindon. Tel: 522729
Contact
Saturday29th -RocktheDayAway. An extravaganza of music, featuring SEVEN (count 'em) bands in a monster of a gig. 2.00p.m. to ll.00p.m. Further details: Tel 430281.
Stage Corner Ballet Tap and National Shoes, Leotards, Tights, Fishnet Tights, Legwarmers, Crossovers and many other Dancewear accessories. Theatrical make-up. Wigs, Beards, Moustaches, Crepe Hair, Hats & Masks. Large,Selection of Jokes, Adults & Childrens Fancy Dress Costumes for Hire.
Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged
Friday 14th - Bardiche. Swindon's favourite rockers! 8.00p.m.
Put some Jim Into your Christmas presents or your party at
WYVERN THEATRE
Theatre Square, Swindon, Wilts. Box Office (0793) 524481 Fri 14 Dec 90 . Sat 19 Jan 91
Credit Card Line (0793) 694055
Wysern Arts Trust in association with KEVIN WO C)
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THE,41E'RFOALL THE roM FAMILY
Writing Saturday 1st/Sunday 2nd - Writer's Workshop. A special weekend for writers, run by three professional writer-publisher-performers. 11.00a.m. - S.00p.m. £15.00! £12.50 concessions.
3PfM% We,hee
Fifty Years On - This book, written by local contributors, details their memories and experiences in World War H, and makes for fascinating reading. Copies are on sale at Link Centre reception, price £4.50. Writers Group - This self-help group for local writers meets at Link Arts every other Saturday, 2.00p.m. - 4.00p.m.
Film Music Thursday 6th - Jesus of Montreal Tuesday 4th - Planet Earth and The (18). Gripping, moving, funny and Niso's. 8.00p.m. Further details uplifting- a Passion Play for our form Link Arts. times. £2.00/1.50 plus £1.00 membership. 7.45p.m. start. Friday 7th - Jazz Front Christmas Party. Featuring Conton Sol, a 9piece Latin band whose dynamic All I have left to say is Merry Christmusic is as good for listening to as mas from all the Link Arts staff and we it is to dance to! Bar extension. look forward to seeing you in December and/or the New Year! 8.00p.m. £3/E2.
Written and Directed by CHRISTOPHER WREN Choreography by
WON
POLLYANN TANNER
(Uthe
Musical Director NEIL BENNETE
TIM DIGGLE & LESLIE MILLS (hinecePoliceinen
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FEATURING THE MOLLIE TANNER DANCERS
ANGIE WELLS
DAVID CHAPMAN
S lace of the Ring
Empero, of China
Arts & Rec,catctn BOROUGH OF MBW THAMESDOWN
DEREK HEWITSON Abuna,a
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Don't forget to visit Aladdin's Cave of Gifts at
McILROYS - the department store from Saturday 3 November to Monday 24 December
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AT YOUR LIBRARY
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Bring & Buy Sale In aid of the Blue Peter Romanian Orphange Appeal
RON AHREHS BUILDER DECORATOR Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating. carpentry & plastering.
Saturday 8 December 11am - 4pm Holy Trinity Church Shaw Village Centre Please bring items in good condition for sale, or just come and support the appeal
JI work guaranteed. No job too small. Free estimates T.I.phon.i 692124 (West Swindon)
Swindon help for AIDS sufferers
Ale 5'14airih-essa hone Cileen on
481758
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World Aids Day on 1 December was marked In Swindon by an exhibition in the Brunel Plaza organised by SPACE - the Swindon Project for AIDS Counselling and Education. SPACE has been set up to help people who are worried about AIDS or are affected by HIV or AIDS. It runs an anonymous helpline, face to face counselling and provides advice and information. People who havebeen diagnosed withHIVor AIDS, ortheirpartners, families and friends areall welcome to contact SPACE for assistance. Telephone 420620, between lOam and 4pm weekdays or Tuesday or Thursday evenings 7pm - 9pm.
Seasonal Greetings from the library staff by West Swindon librarian Carolyn Kennedy
Christmas is nearly here as I'm sure you have not failed to notice. Here at the library we are looking forward to putting up our decorations and displaying all our lovely seasonal books. One book you may have to wait to borrow, but which we are sure will make an excellent present if purchased fora friend orrelative,is 'The Foildaw of Ancient Wiltshire' by Katherine Jordan. There is much scientific and archaeological evidence tracing the history of the hedges, burrows, monuments, forts and tracks which checker the Wiltshire countryside, but what of the stories that have grown-up surrounding these ancient landmarks. Surely the hedges could only have been built by giants orwizards. Maybe the mounds are hidden entrances to the underworld while only the devil was capable of carrying such heavy stones!! Illustrated with photographs of many of the sites this book will
prove a fascinating read and makes an ideal present at ÂŁ5.95. Copies are available for purchase in the library. An important date for your diary is Tuesday 18 December when the library will be closed for business, due to work on the installation of a new computer system. Please don't disappoint yourselves by coming to or 'phoning the library on this day. Christmas opening times
This is also a good opportunity to remind you of our 'holiday' hours. During Christmas and the following week our hours will be as follows: Mon 24 December Closed Tues 25 December Closed Wed 26 December Closed Thurs 27 December Open Fri 28 December Open Sat 29 December Open Mon 31 December Closed Tues 1 January Closed The rest of the week is normal.
Al! the staff at West Swindon Library wish our readers a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year
ASDA West Swindon
Special Shopping Evening for Pensioners and People With Disabilities Tuesday 11th December Store open until 9pm • Extra staff on hand Free seasonal refreshment in the Red Balloon Restaurant Opening Times over the Christmas period Monday 17th December
900am - 8.00pm
Tuesday 18th December to Friday 21st December
9.00am - 9.00pm 9.00am - 9.00pm
Saturday 22nd December Monday 24th December
8.30am - 8.00pm 8.30am - 600pm
Tuesday 25th December Wednesday 26th December
Closed Closed
Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Saturday 29th December
9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00arn - 9.00pm 8.30am - 8.00pm
Monday 31St December Tuesday 1st January Wednesday 2nd January
8.30am - 6.00pm Closed Normal trading hours
Everybody at ASDA would like to wish residents of West Swindon a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
DENMURST1 I Your Master Butcher I UNIT la WEST SWINDON SHOPPING CENTRE Your Master Butcher David Bedwell and his staff welcome you to their branch with these super offers. Why not pay them a visit? I
PORK CHOPS TOPSIDE/SILVERSIDE/TOP RUMP LEGS of PORK - WHOLE OR HALF RUMP STEAK HANDS/SHOULDERS of PORK A full range of Fresh Meat Packs available for your freezer Orders taken NOW for all your TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS FAYRE! All offers subject to availability & valid until 15.12.90 >n
-------------This voucher is worth I
50P OFF TURKEY
ANY FRESH/FROZEN
at DEWHURST UNIT la WEST SWINDON SHO1PING CENTRE To the customer: only one coupon will be accepted per purchase. Not exchangeable for cash. Valid until 29.12.90
This voucher is worth
Ll OFF
ANY TWO FRESH MEAT PACKS FOR THE FREEZER at DEWHURST
UNIT la,WEST SWINDON SHOPPING CENTRE (to the customer: only one coupon will be accepted per purchase. Not exchangeable for cash. Valid until 29.12.90 -------------
--------------
50P OFF
This voucher is worth
ANY FRESH MEAT WEEK-END JOINT OVER 31b at DEWHURST UNIT la WEST SWINDON SH011PING CENTRE to the customer: only one coupon will be accepted per purchase. Not exchangeable for cash. Valid until 29.12.90 -------------
RECREATION
16
Salisbury Street Swindon Tel: 619562 Nearly New Toys Always On Sale, maternity wear & baby clothes and school uniforms.
fpznning T010
Surprises on ice
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New factory seconds, e.g. cots, swinging cribs etc. LET US SELL YOUR GOODS FOR YOU HIRE SERVICE AVAILABLE
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Link Centre's Hans Christian Anderson spectacular on ice is going to involve 200 costumes,120 skaters aged between three and a half and 82 years old. It takes place on 16 and 17 December and tickets are going fast. Book now by calling 871212. Gettingreadyfor the ice show:Inside the cowareAndrewGarlickandJamieBishop, on top is the jester Jenna Arrowsmith, Pat Hughes is in the Dutch costume, Helen Brown, Victoria Thompson and Clare Brown are chickens and ducklings.
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MOBILE VEHICLE SERVICING REPAIRS & TUNING
RC-
By qualified engineers from fully equipped Mobile Workshops at your home or place of work Phone Dave Powell MOBILE Ir 0860 453329 • Swindon 612930 SET PRICE INCLUDES PARTS, LABOUR & VAT
TOP GEAR DRIVING SCHOOL FRIENDLY PATIENT TUITION
All December Lessons ÂŁ11 only Tel: Phil Dixon on Swindon 533898
Christie & Plumb Ist Mortgage 2nd Mortgage
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Re-Mortgage Commercial Mortgagee
In fact if it's advice you require on any financial matter including secured personal loans, pensions, savings, etc., you need only ONE number.
SWINDON 616133 and speak to Hugh Christie or David Plumb. Christie & Plumb, where your interests come first and good service is guaranteed. 161 Rodbourne Road, Swindon, Wilts Telephone: (0793) 616133 Fax: (0793) 485959 Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or a loan secured on it.
Appointed representatives of Eagle Star Group
Party Time at Link
Budge the Bulge!
Thursday 20 December 7.30p.m. 10.00p.m. Classic Christmas Skate Take time out from the Christmas shopping to enjoy a festive skate along to the classic Christmas records of years gone by. Bring your friends and skate for pleasure under the watchful eye of our 'Santa.' (Please note ice hockey skates are not permitted.)
Feeling guilty after the Christmas binge? If so, why not enrol on one of our many activity courses, running during the daytime and evenings, our courses are aimed at adults, youngsters, children, parents and toddlers. Just look at the choice available: Skating, Trampolining, Archery, Climbing,ShortTennis,Swimming, Yoga, Badminton, Canoeing, Soccer, and many more!! Our 'Link Into Winter' courses and activity brochure will be delivered to your door on Thursday 6 December. Application forms will be available from Link Main Reception and may be submitted during the period 10-17 December for January /February courses. In person, bookings may be made over the counter subject to availability from 23 December.
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Saturday 22 December 10.00a.m. 12.00p.m. Cool Kids Christmas Party Whilst Mum and Dad finish off the Christmas shopping skate along to a morning of Christmas fun and festivities. There will be party games and prizes galore all to the sound of your favourite Christmas music. Watch out for 'Skating Santa'! -
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Sunday 23 December 2.30p.m. 5.00p.m. Christmas Family Special The Christmas shopping is over so now's the time to relax and enjoy yourself. Bring the whole family to this special Christmas session and join in the festive fun and games. There will be competitions and prizes to win plus all the top ten Christmas hits we know you'll love to hear. -
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Sunday 23 December 7.30p.m. 10.00p.m. Christmas Ice Disco Special The festive fun continues into the evening at a speedier pace with the current top 20 together with 'Classic Golden Oldies', games, prizes and other surprises. -
Link Centre & Delta Tennis Centre Opening times over Christmas and the New Year Link Delta 24 December Closed Closed 25 December Closed Closed 26 December Closed Closed 27 December Open Open 28 December Open Open 29 December Open Open 30 December Open Open 31 December Open until 6p.m. 1 January Open Closed until 6p.m. 2 January 3 January Open as normal 4 January
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Unlike Santa, Domino's Pizza delivers every day*
Tel: 877585 Seasonal greetings from all at 'st Swindon Centre. Dominos Tizza,(""'A 0
2 r4 o 0 CL
(*Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day)
NEWS & VIEWS Getting Hooked on Cable
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BRITISH PAPER & BOARD
INDUSTRY FEDERATION
PHOTOCOPYING from single copies to 80 page bound books
SINGLE COPIES 7p per copy -Artwork facilities available -Double sided copying -Collating/stapling
British Paper & Board Industry Federation Papermakers House Rivenhall Road Westlea Tel: 886086
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COMPLETE
ELECTRICAL SERVICE G. Stevens Electrical
N.I.C.E.I.C. Approved Commercial, Industrial & Domestic Installations Full inspection & testing of premises undertaken Fire/Intruder Alarms Specialists Swindon 870948 11
Stephanie's Secretarial J Services An Efficient Service Is offered for those of you with that Important letter or CV, report or thesis. Full secretarial support for the small business.
Tel: 881413
GwlE'!/JS BOOK-KEEPING SERVICE •:• DO YOU OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS? + BOOKS A PROBLEM? •. V.A.T. A HEADACHE? IF SO CONTACT US SWINDON 877599 (24 hrs)
Forget about Bermuda! Did you know that you were living in the middle of the Wiltshire Triangle? Not that its anything to boast about the only thing that goes missing here is decent television and FM radio reception. For decades Swindon has been posed no problems for Swindon sitting in a 'gap' between transmit- Cable. Tony Dukinfield, Sales Suters and Swindon Cable was ongi- pervisor said, "The recent merger nally set up to plug that gap by between Sky and BSB has shown piping television pictures direct into how difficult it is for the individual to keep abreast of TV homes. But technology SWI N DON technology. Cable solves moves on and Swindon the problem for its cusCable has taken ad vantomers. With our service tage of every new deyou don't require any velopment. dishes and we can bring Under the auspices of Il ls ft the best of satellite and British Telecom a new Broad Band System has been put in terrestrial programmes into your place using the latest fibre optics home at the touch of a button. We capable of transmitting satellite are happy with the merger and channels, new phone systems, tele confident that the channels of the banking and home shopping as they new company will be of even higher areintroduced. Swindon is the first quality. Our customers will not town in the country to complete the need to change any equipment to installation of the Broad Band Sys- take advantage of these changes." Negotiations are now taking tem and because of Swindon Cable's success we have been spared place between Swindon Cable and the sight of streets full of satellite the new British Sky Broadcasting company. "Because we represent dishes. Swindon Cable is now the most such a large number of customers successful cable operation in the we can get the best deal and procountry, with over 25% of homes in vide satellite programmes and the area taking its programmes. movies at a very favourable price," When BT sold its cable interests the Tony commented. competition forSwindon Cable was The new cable service is now particularly fierce and the company available throughout West Swinis now owned by C.U.C, a Cana- don. Connection is simple and there dian firm specialising in cable TV. is a discount for the retired or disaThe 'war in the skies' between bled. For more information phone competing satellite companies has Swindon Cable on 615601. -
CABLE
Pause ... (from the chaos of Christmas) from Alyson Cardis
Anyone inhabiting the proverbial broomcupboard recently might not have noticed that the seasonal fuss is well underway. All shops worth their salt are full to the cash registers with over-priced 'Xmas' gunk. So you'll be pleased to hear that Pause have formulated a plan of action to bring some sense and reason to comer of West Swindon during the silly season. In November we started warming up with demonstrations on
decoration making and table arrangements. On 7 December we are sallying forth on a shopping trip with the aid of transport and a creche. Our Christmas bun fight will be on 21 December atl2 noon and will take the form of a lunch for the ladies with a separate party for the children. So if you're regarding the coming weeks with trepidation why not join us at Pause in the Link Centre Community Suite, for a little practical help and lot of good cheer.
THE FLEXIBLE MORTGAGE SCHEME MAJOR BENEFITS • 105% of Valuation Available • This could provide extra funds for solicitor fees, carpets, curtains, etc. • Attractive Income Multiples • Competitive First Year Rate • Take advantage of the recent drop in rates and buy now
Christie & Plumb, 161 Rodbourne Road, Swindon, Wilts SWINDON 616133 Your home isat risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or a loan secured on it.
A
MIDLAND The Listening Bank
Try our great Christmas Competition for Under 11s Hi Kids! All you have to do is find twenty banking related words in the word grid. Nineteen are listed below, but the twentieth has been left for you to solve. (Clue: It's something you earn on savings). The first correct entry pulled from the sack on 2nd January 1991 will win a NUMBER ONE ACCOUNT at Midland Bank with ÂŁ15 already deposited in it, along with a selection of other Midland goodies. Good Luck and Happy Hunting Send or drop in your entries to NUMBER ONE COMPETITION Midland Bank plc Westlea Branch 1402 Delta Office Park Welton Road Swindon SN5 7XN.
SAFES GET N EM ETA T S D S A S T M T I D F T C D L MA SCBXDCASHCARDPMO IOYORDOOI L K R I Al H IMOMEEAPK P R C A R D M OPABNCGETGEOACLA E U I E K A N D WS L W K H A K STSKWSAEEACCOUNT Z E J HI H P N P V E R R R D B ORVTEI CCFHBMEOTC TMMONEYMI TVATDEO T B C S U R T S E R E T N I II EOTQCXCAAFOUONOT LUEAEAONETONHRHA UHNHONI HNPMHAOHN C V B A L A N C E F H H B A N K These are the words you have to find: Cashcard, Deposit, Pound, Bank, Money, Midland, Credit, Safe, Clerk, Cheque, Account, Note, Debit, Computer, Coin, Pence, Statement, Cashier, Balance, and don't forget the twentieth word you have to work out yourself
Name Address Tel
Date of Birth
Rules 1. The competition is open to all children who will be aged 11 years or under on 2nd January 1991. 1. Midland Bank Employees and relatives of Midland Bank Employees are not eligible to enter. 3. Entries must be on the original word search form from The Link magazine, (photocopies are acceptable). 4. The closing date for entries to be received is 31st December 1990. 5. The judge' decision is final. 6. No correspondence will be entered into. 7. The winning entry will be pulled from a sack containing correctly completed word search forms on 2nd January 1991. 8. All entries must have the competitor's full name, address, date of birth and telephone number written in the space provided. 9. The winner will be notified by post and invited to Midland Bank Westlea to collect the prize.
A Happy Christmas to all in West Swindon from the Midland Bank
My Sch"l In the third of our visits to the four secondary schools serving West Swindon, we give over a page to students at The Ridgeway School, Wroughton.
Early Thoughts The new Year 7 has been at The Ridgeway now for three months. They interviewed each other, asking questions they thought might be of interest to other eleven year olds as well as to adults.
Martyn Harris, Wroughton Junior. "French is ace because the teacher lets us play games and I can count up to ten. " Jonathon Dixon, Wroughton Junior. "Maths work is not boring at Ridgeway because wedo fun maths and not justboringsums." Amanda Thompson, Wanborough.
What were your first impressions? before."
"I was scared stiff on the bus, but when I was in the school it was fine. What amazed me was that we sat down, listened and worked." Peter Greenhaigh, Westlea Primary. "1 thought I would get lost because it was so big. The other kids seemed to be like giants and we the Ries." Helen Cook, OliverTomkins.
The Year 11 group which contributed articles for this page (some of which have to be edited out for lack of space). "I thought Ridgeway was going "The facilities are brilliant. to be a very rough school and very There's a swimming pool, tennis unfriendly. I thought this because court and a gym hail. There's one people made up silly rumours and great big field, lots of mobiles and a Ibelieved them. When you're there big building. We have cookery for a few days, it's fun and excit- rooms with everything, wooding." Emma Wagner, Toothill Pri- working rooms, science labs, blocks mary. for deaf people and special people "1 was hoping not to get any and weight lifting." Kelly Hamilhomework but we did." Jody ton, Toothifi. Curtis, Wroughton Junior. "I was terrified of the bigger and What special things do you do better people." Kelly Hamilton, outside of the classes? ToothilL "I play an instrument so I have a special music lesson on Tuesdays." What's the work like in your Amanda Hobbs, Wroughton Junclasses? ior. "My favourite subject is games "There are a lot more clubs and because it is rough and it gives me activities and if you go to netball, exercise." Shaun Donovan, Shaw football and cross-country you get Ridge. a chance to play for the school "1 like French because it's so dif- team." Amanda Brain, Wroughton ferent -we play games and we speak Junior. differently." Parmjeet Dhillon, "The facilities are super" Windmill Hill. Andrew Penderleith, Shaw Ridge. "French is wicked because I have "I enjoy anything that comes my never spoken a different language way at Ridgeway but I especially
Excellent opportunities writes Joanne Goidworthy of Chiseldon
Being in the year 11 at The Ridgeway School really does make you aware of your secondary school's assets. The 10th and 11th years really are the most important of your life, therefore school and what happens within it, does become the centre of your world. The switch from the 10th to 11th year involves a lot of pressure. Deadlines forcoursework suddenly become even more ominous, and mock exams loom up. Under all this pressure, you really feel the school's atmosphere. Ridgeway has real team-spirit. Deadlines are organised so as to avoid subject clashes and pupils and teachers alike are always willing to help. Extra curricula ractivities are very good at Ridgeway. We have an annual musical production, which is always well rehearsed and entertaining. This year, the school is performing 'Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat.' Music is also encouraged. But at Ridgeway, it is not just what we do inside school that matters. Outside interests are also encouraged. We have the Sir Henry Calley trophy, which is presented each year to a student who has shown outstanding dedication and commitment to the community. Also hobbies can be included in items of coursework. In P.E. we have excellent opportunities such as orienteering, rock climbing, canoeing, girl's football. Recently pupils were offered the chance to go on a weekend excursion at Cheddar Gorge. The pupils could go caving as well as orien-
teering, canoeing and rock-climbing. We are also given opportunities in other departments, i.e. English, where we can watch a Shakespearian performance, or Art, where a special trip to Oxenwood was organised for a variety of Expressive Arts' activities. Our school is luckier than many as we have a sixth form. This means we can continue to study further education in a familiar environment and with a closer pupil-teacher relationship. We are offered a varied number of courses. Sixth formers can also opt for a leisure course or, for example, D.I.Y. or service in the community. Sixth formers have special privileges. They do not have to wear uniform, they have private study periods and are generally looked up to within the school. I have been at Ridgeway for five years and have enjoyed each one. Pupils all get treated like adults, what you say is of importance and you do get listened to. Our examination grades in both G.C.S.E. and 'A' levels are outstanding and hopefully will continue to be so, especially G.CS.E results this year! I am glad to be a pupil of Ridgeway; it has a very good reputation and atmosphere.
enjoy the clubs. I have joined two, gym and dance." Elizabeth Tew, "It makes me feel smarter wearWroughton Junior. ing a proper school uniform but it is expensive to buy." Anthony How do you like wearing the Corsham, Westlea. school uniform?
"The uniform is very smart. You have to wear a tie and blazer. At first, it's strange but now lam used to it." Neil Bmtheridge, Wroughton Junior. "I like it because you can look much smarter." Mark Guirguis, Wroughton Junior. "Uniform is a drag ... you have to make sure you have the right things." Erika Garrett,Wroughton, Junior. "We wore uniform in our old school and we are used to it. I like the idea of having a lower, middle and upper uniform, each slightly different." Helen Cook, Oliver Tomkins.
How would you sum up The Ridgeway School?
"There are so many people that you can't avoid making friends." Amanda Thompson, Wanbomugh Primary. "It's a nice place with nice children and teachers." Gareth Ratcliffe, Gorse Hill Primary. "The work we do is sometimes quite hard. You need to try your hardest because I think the teachers expect you to do your best and a little bit more." Ewan Morrison, Freshbrook. "The best thing is that you feel more independent." Erika Garrett, Wroughton Junior.
J'Jèxt month, we visit St Joseph's Roman Catholi
NEWS & VIEWS Young people get organised for a better deal
21
Terry Sutcliffe D.O.
STRUCTURAL HEALTH CONSULTANT • Osteopathy • Soft Tissue Manipulation • Sports Injuries To book an appointment, ring 722913 8a.m. — 9a.m. Monday to Saturday 530 Cricklade Road, Swindon SN2 5AQ With Lee Hogan M.P.E.A, R.S.A. West Swindon Youth Organisahon, back row from left, Simon Ford, Theresa Barclay, Errol Williams, Kerry Porter, MarkJenkins,Jackie Warren. Front, 1. to r., John Ayres, Paddy Reed, Barry Gaff, Lynsey Hunter, Michael McHugh A group of young people inToothill nity group will take on the lease. are angry that so little is being done Simon Ford, who organised the to support them that they are start- voluntary decorating team over the ingacampaign topmmotea positive summer, said that quite a lot of attitude towards young people and money was allocated to youth work to have a say aboutyouth services in in the area, but young people arenot consulted on how it is spent. "The the area. The West Swindon Youth Or- majority of young people in West ganisation has been formed to get a Swindon want somewhere to go to better deal for young people ex- chat with their friends, play snooker plained Kerry Porter, who chairs and pool, in fact be where adults the group. "There is nowhere for want them to be - off the streets. young people to go in this area and "It's all very well having a glitzy not much for them to do, unless you facility like the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park but most teenagers won't have have money that is," she said. 'The people who use the bar at the money to go there. There is just Toothill Community Centre closed so little to do here that no wonder the youth room down nearly two they hang around in public places years ago and won't let us into the and there's conflict." building. They accuse us of behavKerry Porter is more direct in her ing badly when it's often adults from criticism. "1 think the organisations the bar or the pub who cause trouble who deal with young people are at the village centre." letting us down. The youth services The youngsters also feel angry should work with us on our terms, that they were allowed to start vol- because what they do affects us." untary work on the Toothifi Farm David Whewell, District Youth youth building last May and spent Officer for Wiltshire County Counthree months cleaning and decorat- cil, said he had met with members of ing, only to be stopped because no the Youth Organisation and was organisation had taken on the lease impressed by how they were disand there was no insurance cover. cussing the problems. 'The Youth Thamesdown Council owns the Resources Committee in fact applied ex-cow shed which has been gradu- to Thamesdown for the lease on the ally upgraded over the last fourteen Toothifi Farm youth building in years. A lease is being discussed by 1989. This request has now been the West Swindon Youth Resource repeated and we are awaiting a Committee, which employs a youth meeting with Thamesdown's Comworker with funds from the County munity Development Department. "I understand the frustration of Council, and negotiations are believed to be continuing. the young people, but it is very im'We were promised that £10,000 portant to have safe working conwas available from the County ditions and insurance cover." He confirmed that £10,000 was Council to get the youth club building open and used, then we were still available from the County out on the street again and nothing Council to refurbish the farm buildis being done," said Kerry. ing. Now, the three youth representaHe added that there is the equivatives on the Youth Resources Coni. lent of five full-time youth workers mittee are thinking about resigning to work with young people in West because of its inaction over the last Swindon. eight months. The Youth OrganisaAny young person interested in tion is hoping another local commu- find ingout more can contact 877083.
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Sixty people who live in West Swindon, or work for caring agencies in the area, spent two days at the beginning of November talking about how residents live their lives in the area and the problems they face. A range of issues were raised for attention by statutory and voluntary organisations, schools, churches, individuals, community groups and politicians. These included: • Isolation, loneliness, the lack of extended family support and the difficulty of establishing oneself in the community • The unwelcomingand unfriendly atmosphere that some people feel. • The over-emphasis on materialism and the pressures on relationships with partners and with children arising from having to work long hours and/or financial difficulties. • The isolation felt by black people in the area and the need for schools
to positively re-enforce the identity of black children. • The need for more information and communication through personal contacts and interaction. • The good facilities for under fives. • The inadequate facilities and opportunities for 5s to 14s and teenagers,which allow them to develop their identities and form good relationships, without having to spend a lot of money. • The lack of local offices run by Social Services, Department of Social Security and Housing • The inadequate public transport network within the area. • The complete lack of affordable nurseries available to working parents.
Conclusions At the end of the conference the different interest groups present committed themselves to take action to alleviate the problems identified, (continued on next page).
Vital contribution from speaker Rev. John Flory, one of the West Swindon conference organisers, has paid tribute to Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths for his open and honest contribution to the event. Neil, as second of five speakers, said how he encounters daily the huge pressures that many families are under when parents approach him for support and guidance. He said the loneliness experienced by parents, the poverty caused by large financial commitments and high levels of marital instability was having profound effects on family relationships, and the development of children. Much to Neil's surprise his sensitive comments appeared in the Swindon Evening Advertiser the next day underthe headline "Estate hides tales of woe," prompting himto send an immediate letter to all parents
expressing his dismay and explaining the context of his comments. There was an angry reaction to the newspaper article by some who attended theconference and we have been asked to publish one of the letters sent to the Advertiser, below. Rev. Flory said he was very grateful for the way Neil spoke at the conference. "Coming so early his comments made the success of the conference; It helped us focus clearly on the problems of West Swindon generally. Westlea is no different from other parts of the area, or the town in general "I'm just sorry that the way his comments were publicised will damage the trust established with people in the community. It will make it more difficult for those who need support to share their isolation with others."
To the Editor of the Evening Advertiser from Sandra Small, Sue Russell and Helen Lawrence of Westlea We write with reference to your article reporting on the two day conference at the Link Centre and the comments made by Neil Griffiths, Headteacher of Westlea School. After reading the article we felt the whole thing was unfair. We attended this conference and can truthfully say that Mr Griffiths' comments were completely exaggerated and out of context. He made these comments out of his deep concern for local people and the children in his school, the things he commentedonattheConfexencewere of a general nature of life today, not pointed at fist the West Swindon community. The whole report was completely out of context and totally unjust The article made it look as if
West Swindon is in a crisis which in fact is not the case at all. Furthermore, please note that Mr Griffiths' pre:.entation was one of many - why was there no coverage of the rest? We can only conclude that they were not 'newsworthy' enough. As residents of Westlea, we would like to point out that Mr Griffiths and his staff have done an enormous amountof good locally,and haveall worked extremely hard toforgedose links with the community. We just hope that because of that unbalanced and sensationalist reporting, all the good and hard work they have put into the community is not ruined because of this most unfair article.
uncovering our problems Community DeeIopment team:
use resources better to assist young people, people under stiebs, children and adults with special needs, ethnic minorities and unemployed people.
Improve the focus of their team work Provide up-to date, accessible and appropriate information for residents; develop a newsletter for community groups. Continue to support residents' groups by providing information, assisting with publicity and helping campaigns. Increase residents' participation in decision making structures.
Work to improve information and communication for and between groups and individuals. Organise meetings of groups during the year. Investigate how a community mini-bus could be acquired.
Education:
Health:
Try to improve opportunities and
Voluntary organisations:
Improve communication with
23
groups in the area and become more Social Services: accessible. Press senior management for preDevelop the new Health Centre school day care facilities. as a focal point for health issues. Consider how a social worker The Church: could be based in the Health Centre. Make a greater effort to let people Work to set up a group for Afroknow what the church is doing in Caribbean woman. the area. Invite individuals to find Police: out about the church. Develop more neighbourhood Set up a staff telephone answer- watch schemes. ing service. Residents Work towards a member of staff at the conference said they would living in Westlea. look to set up another Ladies Club Offer premises for community and a voluntary home visiting meetings. scheme.
FHere's a Colouring Competition sponsored by Mansfield Begbie AssociatesallThere is £60 worth of prize vouchers for six children who send the best entries to The Link, in two categories - under 7's and 7-12 year olds. The first prize is £15 and the two runner ups will receive £10 and £5 in each category. Send your your entries to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook by 20 December. Enclose your name, address and age.
WESTERN WEB OFFSET PRINTERS LID— Member of the Dryden Group.
wish a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all readers of The Link UNIT D, AlR NOS CASTLE TRADING ESTATE, JUNCTION ROAD, BRISLINGTON, BRISTOL B54 3LN Telephone: 0272 773616. Fax: 0272 716086
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A comprehensive review of West Swindon's mad safety problems is being undertaken by the police, and residents of the area are being asked to come forward with their views. Road safety was raised atthe public meeting in October, organised by The Link, where residents had the chance to meet Superintendent Bill Pryke, commander for Swindon North police sub-division. Many problems are raised individually with Thamesdown Borough Council, Wiltshire County Council and the police, but there has never been an overall look at safety on roads and pedestrian mutes. Now area constable P.C. Trevor Canton has been given the task of bringing together as many points of view as possible for a report, and he is appealing to Link readers for help. He has already been in touch with some of the local schools and businesses who are pleased that somebody is taking an interest. 'There's been a good response to my initial contact," said P.C. Carlton. "In many places there is a lack of road markings and poor signage and in others danger created by trees obscuring corners. I'm sure there are many other places where drop curbs could be installed, bushes cut back or better street lighting provided to reduce accidents. "Improvements could also reduce
places requiring double yellow or zigzag lines, shrubs cut back, street signs, drop-curbs - or have other ideas - are asked to write to: P.C. Trevor Carlton, The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon. You can also drop a note into the police sub-station at 9 Cottington Close, Freshbrook
the risk of crimes taking place." P.C. Canton said that once a danger spot is reported for his study, colleagues from the Accident Prevention Unit will visit the location and make a technical assessment of the risk of an accident, or a crime. He is hoping to gather as much information as possible during December so that he can visit the danger scenes in January, before writing his report in February. Readers who believe there are
• Shaw Ridge Leisure Park pedestrian danger - councillor's concern on page 26.
Be warned where you park a bike Another bicycle was stolen in West Swindon on 4 November, one of the 1,100 stolen in Swindon in 1990. But the style of theft is something for everybody to take note of. TheRaleigh Marauderbelonging to 12 year old Robert West of Grantham Close was taken from his back garden, which is surrounded by a six foot fence. Robert had saved up for months and his mother Angela had worked overtime so that he would have a good bike to ride to Greendown School. Their message to other people is be careful with yourbikes, even if they're in your own garden. Insurance is another thing to look into. Bicycles usually have to be listed separately under household insurance. Robert's bike was not,
"Have you seen this bike?" says Robert and his mother Angela
so unless a reader spots it, he is going have to save up all overagain. It's blue with yellow and pink flashes on the frame, which has tape wrapped around the down tube. Give The Linka ring on 872282 if you see it.
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West Swindon they will certainly make sure bination of toppings including Super Suyou are spoilt for choice. All their pizzas are preme, Meat or Cheese Feast, Seafarer or a freshly made to order with delicious To- Spicy Hot One. Alternatively you can Cremato sauce and Mozzarella cheese. They've ate Your Own, by simply adding your own even got three sizes to choose from: small, choice of toppings from Pizza Hut's 13,000 Pizza Hut, Britain's favourite chain of Pizza medium or large. topping combinations. restaurants, opened its doors to the residents Whether you want a Pan Pizza, light and There's also a great range of starters, like of West Swindon and the surrounding area fluffy on the inside, crisp and crunchy on the tasty garlic bread, a choice of fresh pasta last month. outside and baked to a golden brown, or a dishes, fresh salads from the Serve-YourSituated on the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, authentic Thin n'CrispyTm pizza, the choice self-Salad Bar, and a list of mouth watering deserts. the restaurant boasts a full staff complement of topping is yours. of over 40 people. Restaurant manager You can try a delicious Speciality Pizza Behind everygreat Pizza Hutpizza there's Richard Labrosse said, "A couple of weeks baked with Pizza Hut's recommended com- a team of professional and dedicated staff, working hard to ensure, that you before we opened we started to BBC Wiltshire Sound's Graham Seaman made this giant pizza whilst enjoy your meal - every time. recruit for staff from the West broadcasting lire on Children in Need Day with expert help from Pizza Swindon area. Within a couple of Hut manager Richard Labrosse. Slices were sold in aid of the cause. Explains store manager, days we were inundated with apRichard Labrosse, "At Pizza Hut plicants, and thanks to this reyou're got it made because we certainly put our customers first. sponse I have been able to recruit This means first for menu choice, a good local team." first for quality, first for service "When we first opened our and first for value for money. doors to the public, we soon beDuring December you can came very busy. My staff were all enjoy a Christmas special deal a little nervous at first, especially as a number of them were new to a medium Meat or Cheese Feast the restaurant business, but after for only £6.79. Why not book their initial apprehensions the your Christmas party for at least whole day went extremely six people or more, and we'll smoothly. I can't get over the add a bit of Christmas cheer by quality of staff I've been able to giving you a free bottle of wine. Whatever time of year - at Pizza recruit." When you visit Pizza Hut in Hut You're Got It Made!
Win a Pizza Hut meal for four by completing this crossword Here's a special crossword competition for readers of the Link Magazine to celebrate the opening of Pizza Hut's new West Swindon store. It's easy to enter and so easy to do. The lucky winner will enjoy a family meal for four worth £20 and eight runners up will receive vouchers for a meal for two worth £10. Simply complete the crossword grid below, fill in your name and address, then send or take your entry to Richard Labrosse, Manager, Pizza Hut, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon. The closing date is 14 December and the winners will be the first correct entries opened after that date.
pizga 4Iut
Clues Across 1 & 12 The town where you live (4,6) Do they make the flour here for our pizzas? (8) 5 7 You are spoiled for this at a Pizza Hut! (6) 10 A good time was had by all (3) 11 There are 13,000 combinations of them at Pizza Hut (8) See 1 Across 12 14 They all come round for dinner at Christmas (6) You get a free bottle of wine if you book one of these for six 15 or more people (5) Down 2 Are you dreaming of this kind of 7 Down? (5) 3 What Fleet Street gives you (4) We all want this! 4 for money! (5) 6 A Pizza Hut speciality Pizza. A Cheese or Meat (5) 7 The time that Santa comes and kids enjoy (9) One of the types of pizza at Pizza Hut (3,5) 8 9 West Swindon's own magazine (4) 10 At Pizza Hut everything is prepared like this (7) There are a lot of Wild ones playing on the ice in West 13 Swindon (3) Note: Al the words to do with Pizza Hut are to be found in the article above
I 9
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Taste of France at W.S. Centre There was a flavour of France at ASDA between 15 and 24 November with competitions, French restaurant food and in-store wine tasting to celebrate the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau. Money raised during the week went to the Royal National Institute for the Blind. ASDA are backing the RNIBs 'Looking Glass Appeal' which aims to raise over LiOm to provide new facilities for special schools and colleges for the blind. The French week started when a car driven by store managers arrived at 1p.m. with a delivery of the
new wine which was released at midnight. West Swindon Centre travel agents A.T. Mays have donated the major prize of a weekend for two in Paris for the grand draw which will take place on 31 December. £6,000 will be raised if all the tickets which are on sale in the Centre are sold. And in December there will be second French Week and another competition in support of the Royal National Institute for the Blind which will run until the end of January. Watch this space for details.
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Councillor Pixton looking at the route pedestrians will take from Grange Park along Tewkesbury Way
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NEWS &VIEWS
V* Rapid Schoolwear Specialists 34 Newport Street Old Town, Swindon Tel: (0793) 480580
At Rapid Schoolwear we offer you in our schoolwear range, all colours: Grey, Maroon, Navy, Brown, Bottle Green, Royal Blue, Black, White. No need to shop around, if you need something just give usa call, give your order to Debbie and if we have it in stock we can deliver in 24 hours. If we don't have it in stock we can deliver to you within 5 working days all at no extra charge. Prices start from: Pinafore Skirt Game Skirt V Neck Jumper Cardigans Girls Crew Neck Jumpers Shirts Blouses Blazer Sweat Shirt Kagoole Girls PE Shorts Boys Football Shorts Leotards Nylon Lycra Trousers Elastic Back Zip Fly Back Pocket Gaberdeen Raincoat Stanley Duvet Coat
£8.50 £7.99 £6.99 £6.99 £7.99 £6.99 £4.99 £4.99 £22.99 £5.75 £4.99 £4.50 £3.25 £4.99 £6.99 £6.99 £38.99 £25.99 £17.99 £19.25
* Embroidery Service to Companies & Clubs * Company Ties * Club Jumpers * Work Wear * Any Logo: Up to Five Colours at no extra charges Leisure Wear & Sports Wear T - Shirts, Sweatshirts, Towels Bathrobes, Promotional Wear
Green competition for schools An competition which aims to get Swindon primary school children thinking about the environment will be launched at the beginning of January. Organised by Thamesdown Council and sponsored by Burmah Castrol, there is a BBC Computer for the school with the best entry, class tickets to the Oasis domebusters, and individual prizes to be won. Prizes will beon offer ina number of categories which involve both individuals and groups of children. There will be an award for the school with the tidiest site, a prize for a classroom display and the winners of the poster category will have their work displayed on litter bins Regent Street. Poems and essays with a green theme will also get prizes.
Details of the competition will arrive at schools in early December with judging taking place at the end of March.
Are you a Freshbrook Village Centre user? Are you satisfied with it? i.e. the litter, the lack of disabled parking bays or bike rights, safety, lighting levels. Freshbrook councillors Bob Pixton and Sue Bates are organising a discussion with Thamesdown Council officers on Thursday 13 December, 8p.m. at Freshbrook Community Centre. All welcome. Recycling paper collection Freshbrook School 6 December 8am to 4pm
Life's important times
Members of the Westlea girls group with their photographic work
A group of ten and eleven year olds at Westlea School have been meeting once a week with workers from the Swindon Octobus Project for the last three months. "The aim of the project has been to use photography to help girls talk about the important things in a woman's life," said project worker Margot Brown. "We talked about the different aspects of a woman's life and decided what kind of photographs could illustrate these times. The girls arranged the scenes to be photographed, took the shots and learnt how to develop the films, then printed them. "Subjects like education, getting a job, getting married, having babies, divorce have been a few of the things we've talked about. The project has raised awareness about the stereotypes that girls take on very early in life." The photographs and the written comments from the group members will be on display in the LinkCentreduringearly December.
Some of the comments from the Westlea girls project: "When I grow up I want to get married and have a baby and get a good job and buy a house and drive a car and get good exam results." "Husband Child Nice house Get a well paid job Get a Porsche Get good exam results Pass driving test." "Things I want to happen Have a baby (twins) Job Get married Pass my driving test Get a BMW or Rover Have a lot of money I want a good report."
HOME & GARDEN Where's the best place Washing Machine Repairs to buy a Christmas tree? Southleaze Sheep Farm is selling good quality Christmas trees at reasonable prices. Cut Norway Spruce trees cost from F-5; trees with roots are from 6. Troubled by needles droppmgoff and getting embedded in the carpet formonths. No problem. Southleaze
are selling Nordmann Firs which are guaranteed not to shed its needles from £15. They will deliver to your house without charge or you select and takeaway from the farm gate. Call 523134 for details. Southleaze is to be found behind Texas DIY.
Same Day Service Guaranteed Repairs
D.I.Y. Spares Delivery Service J. Martin • Tel: 694930 West Swindon
Philip Stone Painter & Decorator
Numbers improving at gardening club More people have been joining the West Swindon gardening club recently which encouraging for the organisers who were on the brink of closing up two months ago for lack of members. There will not be a meeting in December, but the first in 1991 takes place on 14January, at 8p.m., in the Community Suite in theLink Centre.
Presents for Planters
For a high standard of work with references available.
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material; leaves, buds, flower twigs and seed pods. Buy them The Flower Arranger's Garden' by Rosemary Verey, which is full of ideas of how to make this stockroom as attractive as the arrangements it supplies. Organic Eats - usually an allotment gardener, keen on greens and beans and compost heaps. If they are a partner, make sure they have a shredder, which helps produce the most wonderful compost. A less expensive present would be a good pair of gardening gloves, or a pack of Agryl Fleece, for earlier crops. Compulsive Planter - if a plant has been photographed or written about this gardener will want a specimen of it in her own garden, if there is any way space can be made for it. Check their bookshelves, and if they don't already own it, buy the 1990 edition of 'Plant Finder' or 'Index Hortensis'. Both lookboring, just lists of plant names, but they help the addict with their daily fix. Ifyouarea gardener who wishes more of his friends enjoyed gardening, buy them The New Small Garden' by John Brookes and a roll of black polythene.
I Lydiard Landscaping Patios • Fencing • Turf Laying • Walling General Gardening • Small tree felling
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Claire Beaton makes some suggestions Gardeners use their gardens in as many different ways as cooks use their kitchens. The outcome may be a garden full of plants, or a plate full of food, butwhich plants? what food? When you are wanting to buy a suitable Christmas present, it is important to remember what the garden tells you about the gardener. Blaze of Colour - this gardener fills small beds with orange marigolds, scarlet salvias and crimson begonias. Buy them a tub of Phostrogen for Christmas, that will help all these plants grow to their most luxuriant. If they grow all their plants from seed, see if you can find a germination thermometer for them the most convenient are electronic with a small soil probe and cost £15-0. Green Earth - this gardener sows teasles and thistles and will transplant elderberry seedlings from the hedgerow. Buy them a native, broad leaf tree; a rowan or aspen are suitable for a small garden; or a year's membership of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Artistic Arranger - this florist tends their garden as an out-ofdoors stockroom for an exquisite succession of three-dimensional collages using all types of vegetative
29
R.T. Farley
S Landscape Gardener S S in West Swindon S S 20 years of experience. S Turfing, Paving, S S Fencing, Pergolas, S S S Planting New Gardens S S Rockery Gonstuction S Crazy Paving etc. S S S S 55,555555,5 S 55
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Manufacturer & Retailer of top quality fencing panels, gates and sheds. Erection service available. Trellis top panels made to order Compare our prices: Overlap Wainey Panels 60" x6 0"- £11.50 6' 0" x 50" -£11.04 Prices include 6'0" x 4'0" - £10.52 V.A.T. 6' 0" x 3 0"- £10.00 Other prices on request
Tel: Swindon 848260 Days or 692658 Evenings
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Local groups get practical help
30
Rich Wood Projects Quality Home Improvement and fitted storage
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4C4L 'S fJIOMT'E 41qssJ7rç. .4 ¶Profe siona1Sy1ict offering 9fairdrezing in the comfort ofycur awn home Tel:-Rachael on SWINDON 541740 (24 hour answering service)
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The hundred and fifty voluntary groups in West Swindon will get a big boost with the opening of a Resource Room in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. Many groups find it difficult to produce good quality information, but now there is equipment and materials available to help them improve the way they present themselves. Community Activities Officer Tony Hillier explained that the Resource Room will also help groups attract more attention. 'We have a word processor, photocopier, lettering machine and materials for making posters. "Many group organisers don't have access to these resources; those in the room will help groups improve communication amongst their own members, and also make it easier for them to tell the wider community about their activities. They will be able to produce minutes of meetings, posters and leaflets quickly." He said that the CommunitySuite staff would be available to help group members, but essentially the room should be self running. He added that the facilities would only be available to recognised community groups and not businesses. Information for everybody The Link Community Suite is also going lobe the siteofanlnformation
Community Suite staffBetty McKinley, Mary Poultney and Tony Hillier
Bank for all residents living in West Swindon. All the local groups, schools and church organisations are presently being circulated with a questionnaire to get an up to date picture of what is going on in the community. Once the information has been brought together, it wiibe available to local people looking for a group to join or an activity to take part in. The information will also be used to update the long running booklet 'Welcome to West Swindon" which has been available to new arrivals in the area for many years. More details about the Resource Room and the Information Bankcan be obtained from Tony Hillier on 871212 ext. 234.
Letters to the Link•
SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE SHAW VILLAGE CENTRE RAMLEAZE DRIVE, SHAW Consultations by Appointment Mon to Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm 8.00pm -1 O.00pm Sat 9.00am - 12.30pm • LATE NIGHT SURGERIES • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY TREATMENT
TEL: 881919
Letters with full name and address should be sent to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by the 20th of the month Still hope for Outer Circle route from Councillor Sue Bates, Selby Crescent, Freshbrook
I'm taking this opportunity to update you regarding the Outer Circle Bus Route (20/21). Our petition of over 600 signatures was sent to the County Council and was considered along with other letters and requests calling for the re-instatement of the route. I believe we can, at this moment, claim partial success, as the County Council have agreed to look again at the route, and to hold talks with Thamesdown Council.
There was a lot of support forour route at the Council meeting held in November, and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all councillors who spoke on our belief. It is accepted that there is a social need for the route, and I'm cautiously optimistic that we'll seethe bus run again, albeit with a reduced service. The Transport Committee meets again on December 5 and I'm sure we'll all be hoping that they come to the 'right decision' on that day.
The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Vacancy: Part-time playgroup Clothing Alterations & Repairs assistant for Tuesdays and Tel: 872096 Thursdays at Dunwich Drive PlayMrs White, Freshbrook group atToothill Community Centre. Ring Jenny Dunn 692628. SUMMING Thursday 7.45pm For Sale: Raleigh Bianca Girls Freshbrook Community Centre Bicycle. Suit 6-9 year old. Very Tel: Sure Slym 617123 good condition. £35. Tel: 871793 Wanted: Granny or Auntie for adoption to take care of Lindsey (3yrs) for 18 hours and together with her brothers for 5 hours (23 hours per week total). 'Phone 612558 for details of hours and pay.
Visit the 'Pay More Eat WV 1.4 Y. Less' Christmas Cracker CHRISTMAS restaurant in Swindon
E CRACKER ;
Above The Card Shop 23 The Parade, Swindon (near Debenhams).
Help raise £5,000 for Third World Projects by having a cup of coffee, a sandwich or a meal prepared by volunteers. Every penny spent will help someone in a less well-off country. Open from 1 to 22 December.
Link Centre 15 December The Link Centre sports hail is a far cry from an ancient candle lit parish church. But you can't get 1,400 people into the average church and still have mom to sing carols. If you love singing carols, then this is for you. The great Christmas Unwrapped Carol Service will bring you carols (traditional favourites and some lovely new ones), readings, drama and more. It will bea (literally) breathtaking evening
- bring a friend or two. Saturday 15 December 730p.m. (doors open at 7.00p.m.) at theLink Centre. Tickets Q, concessions ELM from Christian Bookshops or f2.50 on the door. There will also be an opportunity to give towards 3rd World Aid. Christmas Unwrapped is a national project to 'unwrap' the heart of Christmas - the birth of Jesus.
s Services, Gh isiaI St Peter's Roman Catholic Church Cai-ronbridge Road, Westlea 24 December 6.30pm Vigil Mass- Children's Liturgy 11.30pm Carols followed by Midnight Mass 25 December 10.00am Mass
Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road, Freshbrook Sunday 23 10am 6.30pm Christmas Day lOam
Family Service (Coffeeservedafter Carols by Candlelight both services) Service of Thanksgiving
West Swindon United Churches Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Centre Sunday 9 10.30am Family Toy Service in aid of NSPCC Sunday 23 10.30am Child rens Carol Service 6.30pm Service of Lessons & Carols Christmas Eve I 1.3Opm Communion Service Christmas Day Jesus' Birthday Celebrations 9.30am Communion Service 10.30am Family Service II Saints Church, Lydiard Millicent unday 23 400pm Carol & Christingle Service hristmas Eve I 1.3Opm Candlelit Communion Service hristmas Day 8.00am Holy Communion Service 10.3Oam Family Service with Communion Mary's Church, The Church unday 23 10.30am 6.3Opm hristmas Eve 11.30pm hristmas Day 10.3Oam
in the Park Family Service Candlelit Carol Service Midnight Communion Service Family Communion Service
estlea Church at Westlea School hristmas Day 10.45am Christmas Family Service oothill Church unday 23 10.45am 4.00pm hristmas Eve 11.30pm hristmas DaylO.45am
Communion Service Christingle Service Midnight Communion Service Family Communion Service
31 Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's LTregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Tony Price 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 f also All Saints, L Millicent
GOOD NEWS WORKSHOP • Carpentry & Joinery • Home Improvement Work • Windows & Doors Fitted • Bricklaying • Plumbing • Painting & Decorating • Plastering All Work Completed With Care and A Smile Swindon 487643 (24 hrs)
Freshbrook ,ev angelical Church Worsley Road gives YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam Family Praise with Children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone Rev. Peter Grainger on 490498. Church Office, Tel: 873050
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Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 526601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602
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