December 1992 Swindon Link

Christmas greetings from No. 129 • December 1992 • Circulation 11,500

PUT YOURSELF ON THE MAP The 1993 edition of the popular and very useful West Swindon street map will be published in the Spring. To advertise on it telephone 872282.

west swindon's magazine and the swindon wide what's on guide

Giant Pudsey helps raise cash for Children in Need The children of Westlea Playgroup spent the week of 15 to 20 November raising funds for the 'Children in Need' appeal.

During the course of the week they made a large 'Pudsey' bear from tissue paper and sold 'Pudsey' biscuits for 20p.

On Children in Need Day, staff, children and parents took their king sized paper bear and a fresh supply of biscuits to the Link Centre where they handed over a cheque for 107.07.

They made a further £30 from selling biscuits to people attending the fun events organised by BBC Wiltshire Sound at the Link Centre.

Left: Westlea playgroup youngsters present BBC Wiltshire Sound presenter Graham Seaman with their cheque

Inside We have three great competitions for Christmas for kids, families and OAPs. • Win a trip to the Wyvern Theatre's pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk on page 15, • Just for pensioners, win frcc tickets to the MGM cinemas new Classic films show in January on page 15.

• Kids can win a brand new video of the popular new Disney cartoon Cinderella from Video Solent on page 25.

Get ready for 93 New adult education classes start in January. Info, on New College courses are on page 17 and Swindon College cicrsses in West Swindon are listed on page 24.

HOW'S THIS FOR A CHRISTMAS TREAT? ADULT MOUNTAIN BIKES FROM ONLY £99 (including small sizes for big kids) Come and see our fantastic offers on special purchase and end of season clearances.

Free Computer with every bike over £100 (providing you take delivery before 12 December ____

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2 The Link Magazine. December 1992

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School celebrates Silver Jubilee February 1993 is Ridgeway School's twenty-fifth anniversary and former students are invited to take part in three events which will allow them to meet old friends and to find out what is going on at the school nowadays.

The events are: Monday 8 February - Fashion Show - Day wear, special occasion and evening dress by Carriages atThree, Juvals,John Treasure and Moss Bros, modelled by former and present pupils, and staff. 8pm in the school hail.

Wednesday 10 February - Open House - A chance to tour the school, see an exhibition on the history of the school and view the plans for the longawaited third phase of building. Refreshments available. 2pm - 7pm.

Friday 12 February- Grand Jubilee Ball, dancing to Smiley Mac and disco.

Black tie. Carved buffet. Tickets E20 on a first come, first served basis. An event sure to be very popular. To book a ticket, contact Mrs M Indge at Ridgway School, Inverary Road, Wroughton. Tel: 812824.

Memorabilia wanted An exhibition is being organised which tells the story of Ridgeway School during its twenty-five years. The school is looking for contributions of photographs, school reports, trophies and any other interesting items which could be included. If you can help, contact Marilyn Indge on 812824.

WORD PROCESSING Letters, CV's, Mailshots, Manuscripts and Reports.

All work produced on a Laser Printer. Fax service available.

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

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Parents vote for ballot Parents of children at West Swindon's secondary school Greendown have signed a petition calling on the Governors to hold a ballot on the question of whether the school should become Grunt Maintained.

One hundred and seventy five parents signed the petition, 158 were necessary. A postal ballot of all parents will be organised by the independent Electoral Reform Society and will take place at theend of January.

Information on the benefits and Healthy & Fit in 93 disadvantages of 'opting-out' of loThe Link magazine looks at Keep cal authority control is being preFit classes next month. If you run pared at present and will be circua class and want to advertise it, lated to parents after Christmas. give us a call on 872282.

If you attend a keep fit session, tell the organiser aboutthis special feature on getting fit and staying fit in 1993. Get the New Year off to a healthy start.

Early print date With the Christmas holidays in the way, we have to produce The Link early. Please note the closing date for the January edition below.

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it1ik M00% Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8P0

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Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Advertising Sales: Tel: (0793) 872282

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

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

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

Contents

Toothill 4 I Apple Macintosh design, Freshbrook 5 & Grange Park layout and lasersetting Westlea 6 Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol 8 Shaw Published monthly.

9 At Your Library Copy date for January Recreation 10 edition: 14 December 16-17 Swindon Wide Letters to the Link 25 The January edition will be 26 Local Lives published on 1 January 1993.

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.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING 87228

The Link Magazine. December 1992 3

Christmas: It's enough to bring anyone to their knees!

by Rev. John Flory, Team Leader of the West Swindon Ecumenical Church team

Our hearts go out, especially this year, to all those who are not going to be able to celebrate Christmas in the way to which they are accustomed. We think perhaps of all those who have lost their homes, either through civil war abroad or repossessed at home; and of those who have had to tighten their belts as far as they can go in order to keep a roof over their heads.

The Chancellor hopes that those this world - and the witness is that whostifihave jobs will spend, spend, His light was, and never is extinspend in the High Streets, but eve- guished. ryone's security hasbeen threatened He said that if we make His kingby this lengthening recession, and dom our priority, then God, our the confidence to spend has been heavenly Father, will see to it that sapped. What light can the Christ- we never want for clothes, food and mas event shed on all the doom and shelter, because those things become gloom? What message of hope is His responsibility. The trouble is therefor the anxious and depressed? that we are very reluctant to take Him at His word.

I hope that in these difficult days, we may come to see possessions for what they really are-just things; and learn to value our personal relationships much more. God's kingdom comes when we invite Him into our homes and hearts - it's a relationship that He wants, and to make it possible He sent His Son. Changes for Church in continued staff turnover John Flory

When we think of it, we might be tempted to question God's timing for sending His Son? The Jewish nation was subject to a foreign power. Mary and Joseph were forced to leave homijust as Mary's first baby was due; and as soon as He was born, they had to hurry south to Egypt as refugees. And yet God watched over and protected the Holy Family.

Standing at the foot of the cross, we might have felt too that the Son of God's impact on the world was pretty insignificant. There He was, nailed to a piece of wood on the city's rubbish dump, surrounded by a jeering crowd and just four of His friends for company. The Sayiour is no stranger to the darkness of

Three members of the West Swindon Ecumenical Church team have left the area in as many months.

Anne Thomas has gone to Birmingham, Helen Drummond left for Leeds and Ian Handscomb is now in Devon. Now two more have announced that they will be departing the parish.

In January, Kieth Boxhall leaves Shaw Church for a parish in Bristol whilst team leader John Flory has declared that he and his wife Jean will be departing the Rectory in Lydiard Millicent - but not for at least 12 months, after new members of the team have been recruited.

Rob Burle, vicar for Freshbrook, will be carrying on the good work.

Rev Flory said that the changes willallow thechurch tolookatwhere staff can best be deployed in future.

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New meeting place Toothill Credit Union is holding its next meeting in the Toot and Whistle pub at Toothill Village Centre on Tuesday 8 December, 7.30prn.

The Credit Union is a community based cooperative bank. Members receive interest on their savings and can apply for loans at very low rate of interest.

New members are always welcomed. If you want to know more about the Toothill Credit Union, visit the Toot and Whistle for a seasonal get-together.

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Childrens Christmas Party.

Sunday 13 December, 3pm 6pm.

Open to children who live in Toothill aged 3 to 10 years. There is no charge, but places are limited and names have to be put on a list at the community centre office.

Lunch Club Christmas Party.

Wednesday 16 December, 6pm to 10pm. For members and invited guests. Entertainment by John Holmes and his organ.

Christmas Disco.

Saturday 19 December, 8pm to midnight. Open to anyone over 18. Tickets £1 from centre office.

Bingo There's Bingo every Friday evening at 7.30pm in Toothill Community Centre.

Just turn up and take part.

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Community centre events

Toothill's Chinese Takeaway needs a reliable driver or bike rider to help them launch their new Chinese food and Fish and Chip evening home delivery service.

Applicants should be reliable, have their own transport and know The West Swindon Young Peoples' how to read a map. For details, Centre was launched with a disco at contact Mrs Cheung at the Takeathe beginning of November,pictured way, telephone 487055. above.

A programme of activities is being developed. To find out more, contact youth workerJo Marchment at the Link Centre on 871212.

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Tootleabrook WI June Bradley writes

The cake stall we held at the West Swindon Centre in October was so successful that we were sold out before noon. We know that WI produce is very popular for its quality and good value, but we do lots of other things too!!

AtourNovember meeting we had a talk with slides on Crime in the 18th and 19th Centuries. This was quite fascinating and prompted much lively discussion. We concluded that human nature is the same now as it always was. Crime is no better and no worse that before we just hear about it more easily. At the meeting members brought Christmas gifts for Roundway Hospital.

Our December meeting will be the Christmas Party which if the previous ones are anything to go by will be a very lively affair.

We are a friendly group of ladies of all ages and interests. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month in the community room at Toothill School at 7.30pm. Why not join us?

If you would like to know more ring June, 495520 or Sylvia, 694085.

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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Christmas Bazaar Saturday 5 December 2pm - 4pm Freshbrook Community Centre Father Christmas, Crafts, Gifts, Refreshments In aid of Rainbow Playgroup

Minder meeting Freshbrook Childminders have started to meet again at the beginfling of each month. Childminders from Freshbrook will be made welcome with the children they care for.

Minders from Toothill are also invited to attend.

To find out more, telephone Janet Shaw on 481800.

Writer David does all the work

Author David Pike from Rochford Close, Grange Park, has not only written his first book titled Sentinal of the Row, he has also designed the cover, arranged for printing and is now marketing it to bookshops.

David,pictured below, was featured in the September edition of The Link Children in need help but even that story did not find him a publisher,. So he took his manuA bright idea by seven year old script to his employers, the Atomic Frreshbrook School pupil David Energy Authority.

Young helped to raise E273 for the They normally publish scientific BBC Children In Need appeal on 20 documents, but were so impressed November. with David's work that they offered David suggested that a picture of to print his book at near cost price. It the appeal mascot Pudsey be drawn was an offer he could not refuse. on the school playground and children be asked to fill him with coins.

A 20 foot Pudsey was drawn and the 550 children and staff came out of class to each place the 20p they were contributing to the appeal in return for not wearing school uniform.

A copper coloured Pudsey with a silver scarf appeared briefly before the cash was swept up for counting.

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Sentinal of the Row is set in the rural surround of David's imagination, not a million miles from Swindon, and is described on the book jacket as a 'riotous bitter sweet tale, full of earthy Wiltshire characters.

"There's an element of Tom Sharpe in my writing," said David.

"The book has a tongue in cheek style which describes feelings of lonhiness,insecurity and mis-guided affection, with a few racy bits.

"It's been exciting publishing my own work; the printing department at the AEA has done a tremendous job. It's the first of its kind for them.

"There's been a lot of interest from libraries and wholesalers and I hope to have copies for sale locally."

Sentinal of theRow has a full colour cover, it's an easy read and brings a chuckle as you discover the amusing characters. Recognising its local setting also adds interest.

Copies are available direct from David Pike who can be contacted on 875941. It costs £4.99 and could make a nice Christmas present for family or friends.

There are only 1,200 copies, so buy quickly.

J4lerry Christmas & 21,appg _New )3ear from everybody at

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Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 0793 873217 9am - 6pm Tues 22 Dec Wed 23 Dec 9am - 6pm 9am - 4pm Thurs 24 Dec 9am-6pm Tues29 Dec Wed 30 Dec 9am - 6pm 9am - 3pm Thurs 31 Dec Reopen on Tuesday 5 January

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Freshbrook Takeaway & Havelock Chinese Restaurant wish everyone

A Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Whatever you have, Fish and Chips or Chinese, think of Freshbrook Takeaway, Freshbrook Centre first!

At Havelock Chinese Restaurant, Havelock Street, Swindon, a £12.50 four course Christmas Dinner is being served from now until the New Year.

Telephone: Freshbrook Takeaway 873178 Havelock Chinese Restaurant 539396

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Westlea School funds benefited by ÂŁ967 after parents and staff organised the only community bonfire and fireworks event within West Swindon on 5 November.

1,200 people fromalloverthe area supported the event.

Parent and local scout leader David Franklin and a team of helpers built and supervised an expert bonfire which burnt toa small pile of ashes. The fireworks were a big favourite with all who attended.

A further ÂŁ2,100 was raised at the school's Christmas Fair on 28 November Pictured right, from Shaw, Duncan, Nickyand Lisa Weller,andKellyFeeney in front, enjoying their sparklers

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Call (0793) 849449 (24 hrs) His mother had a shotgun wedding yet choirs of angels announced His birth He was born in a cow shed yet wise and wealthy men came to worship Him Christmas is a mystery - God was born into His own creation. But one thing is clear - this Jesus, changed human history and He changes our lives today.

The people of Westlea Church

0

0 invite you to share our family celebrations this Christmas.

Carol Service- 20th December 3.30pm Family Communion - Christmas Day lOam HAPPY CHRISTMAS! We meet in Westlea School, Langstone Way

Local correpondent Sheila Mitchell from Moresby Close, Westlea has become The Link magazine's local contact for the Westlea page. If you have a story about a Westlea person, or an event coming up, tell Sheila about it and we'll get it into The Link. Her telephone number is 873062.

Dad runs for playgroup On 6 December, Stephen Bisley whose son, Michael, attends the Westlea Playgroup, will be taking part in the Purton Half Marathon which is being organised by Swindon Road Runners.

Stephen has been training hard for the event and has been busily

raising sponsorship from local people and local companies. His aim is to help the playgroup raise cash to buy outdoor play equipment.

Stephen hopes to be running in a T-shirtdesigned by the children with his sponsors advertisements printed on it.

Milkman promotes milk to youngsters 'Howard the Milkman' visited the children of Westlea Playgroup recently as part of the campaign to increase awareness about milk, its uses and the continued need formilkmen to deliver the daily pinta.

Howard spent well over an hour with children who had madearange of milk puddings and with Howard they en joyed milkshakes and cheese and biscuits. He read them a story called 'Michael the Milk Bottle' which told the story of the life of a milk bottle and illustrated how milk

is processed from the cow to the milk botttle.

Howard answered the wide range of questions which the children asked and told them the time he delvered the milk to their front door in the morning. The children were particularly fascinated to know what time Howard had to get up in the morning. However, despite being a tremendous hit with the children, they alidecided that they would not like to be a milkman as none liked the idea of getting up so early.

Beavers colonise Westlea!

Two years of planning has culminated in the successful inauguration of a new Beaver Colony as pa it of the Westlea Scout Group.

On 24 November eleven Beaver Scouts, taken from the Cubs waiting list, were invested by their leader, Janet Carmichael, into the Colony where they team up in 'ledges' for activities. These are summed up in the Beaver Scout motto 'Fun and Friends' and include games, handiwork and crafts, as a prelude to Cub Scouting.

The Westlea Beaver Colony is the second in West Swindon and sup-

plements the Westlea Cub Scout and Scout sections. It caters for six to eight year olds and meets in the Community Hall adjacent to Westlea School. More information may be obtained from the Westlea Group Scout Leader Dave Franklin on 874671, or the Beaver Scout LeaderJanet Carmichael on 535988.

Westlea Scouts are delighted to welcome the Beavers, their parents and the new leaders into the group, and look forward to following their progress as grow older and work their way up through cubs and scouts.

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

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*********************** The Village Inn at Shaw, Swindon Sunday Lunch £4.99 • Children £2.99 With a FREE 125m1 glass of house wine Soup or fruit juice Choice of two roasts - Served with fresh seasonal vegetables, boiled and roast potatoes, followed by coffee Monday - Saturday reduced rates Senior Citizens on main meals The Granary Room available for Special Occasions and business meetings Have you booked your Christmas meal?

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Young lion dancers, from left to right, Kirendeep Bhui, Jodie Reynolds, Sarah Jordan, Kate Absolom, Chelsea Jones, Albert Tang, Suzanne Giles, Edward Barnes

Sparklers Playgroup from Sparcells made an exciting visit to the Chinese Experience restaurant at the beginning of November.

Restaurant manager Albert Tang showed the under fives around the building and they all had a go on the Karaoke machine. Each child had a drink and left with a goody bag.

Playgroup chairwoman Nicki Jones said the visit was a good cultural experience for the children. "The staff were very friendly and helpful. The children enjoyed themselves a lot, especially singing nursery rhymes on the Karaoke machine."

Shaw W1 Kay Twyman writes

Our October meeting went well John Girvan gave us an interesting and humourous talk on Ghosts, we all enjoyed the evening.

In December we're having an early Christmas get together, and we'll be meeting on Monday 14th at 730pm at Upper Shaw Farm. We'll be entertained by a group playing hand chimes and there will be refreshments and a raffle. Please come and join us - we'd love to see visitors.

For further information or just to find out what we do, please call Kay Twyman on 871614.

Christmas Bazaar Saturday 5 December 11am - 2pm Brookfield School, Shaw Free

Big fundraising Friends of Shaw Ridge School have raised £700 from an autumn raffle and a charity stall in Swindon's Brunel Centre in October. There was tremendous support from parents and friends who donated homemade cakes and other items.

The money is to be used to purchase soft play equipment for the school.

Guides get going A newly formed Girl Guide company enrolled fourteen girls on 4 November, two months after forming at Shaw's Holy Trinity Church.

The Guides are presently working on road safety badges with the help of Wiltshire's Road Safety Officer and sold cakes and drinks at Shaw Village Centre in aid of Children In Need at the end of November.

There are still a few places available and girls who would like to become Guides can contact Janet Clarke on 772234 to find out more.

9

AT YOUR LIBRARY

More books wanted say library users Christine Owen responds

If you look through the comment books in most libraries in Swindon you will find that one of the most common requests is for more books on the writer's favourite subject. We have been asked recently for more teenage books, more books on geography, music, biology, accounting and commerce, science fiction and fantasy, atlases and so on.

Whilst we are always interested to know what our readers want, it is impossible for us to buy more books in every subject.

As you probably know the library is run by the County Council and paid for by a combination of your local tax and government grants.

You don't need to be a genius to realise that the library is, therefore, limited in the money it has available; if we buy more books for one section we buy less for another.

Every librarian has to balance their allocation of money very carefully to allow them to buy as wide a variety of books as possible to satisfy the varied demands people make onus.

We are often aware of sections of stock which require improvement and readers comments will reinforce our knowledge, but it is not always possible to do very much about the problem in the short term. I am always interested to read your corn-

.4 4..

.

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ments and will do my best to improve the stock, but I cannot work miracles I'm afraid.

Don't forget that the whole of the county library service stock is available foryou through our interlibrary loan system and you can request any book for a 50p charge.

Just to show that despite all I've said we do have lots of new books, here is a selection of our recent arrivals. For those interested in military matters we have two 'inside stories of army life'. 'Storm Command. a personal account of the Gulf War' by General Sir Peter de la Billiere is described as 'a fascinating revelatory chronicle of war from the allied nerve centre' and 'a portrait of an exceptional commander in action'.

It is a readable account of the Gulf War and should be irresistible to those who enjoy war books. Similarly The Quiet Soldier' by Adam Ballinger is a personal account of the gruelling SAS selection course and the effect it has on those who put themselves through it. This is also a compelling read which will be very popular in the library.

Next a book which I am going to recommend to a MrJ Major and Mr N Lamont, 'Understanding the economy' by Andrew Dunnett. This is a detailed and up to date study of how the economy works. It is not an easy read, but would probably be very useful bedtime reading for our confused leaders.

For those in search of an escape from the economy and its tribulations we have a new guidebook to the Caribbean Islands in theTravellers World series recommended by Thomas Cook. It covers all the islands, and there are a lot of them, giving information about customs, currency, health and places to stay as well as guides to places of interest. We have also had a lot of new novels recently so if you have been looking for something different to read, do call in and have a look.

I have just put our Christmas books on display, and by the time you read this the festive season will be almost upon us.

Christmas Closure

The library will close at 1pm on Wednesday 23 December and will not open again until 9.30am on Saturday 2 January. We will be sealing the letter box as a security precaution, so you will not be able to return books during this period. No books will be stamped due for return when the library is closed and you will not be charged fines for days when the library is closed.

May I take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year from all of us at the library. We look forward to serving you 1993.

INTEREST RATES DOWN F7-14 14111 / 11/0

CAN WE HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE? Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you.

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

We can arrange fixed rate mortgages at very competitive rates e.g. 7.25% for 2 years or 8.25% for 5 years We can also arrange new loans at a variable rate of 6.55% with no deferral of interest (discounted rate which is 2% below the base rate of 8.55% for 12 months), subject to status, e.g. a mortgage of £50,000 could cost £231.98 per month at 6.55%.

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

Swindon 873369 (2 lines) .74ansfielcl Ti3egbie 2ssociaie,s wish everybody in "West cSinc1on a Very 'happy Christmas MTBfl

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Cornhill PLC is a Member of Lautro."

REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT.

RECREATION

10

Young footballers on more equal terms

A Happy Christmas and Fit New Year UJ

>.

4-

PA

BY DESIGN LTD

Tuesdays 7.30pm - 8.30pm - Exercise to Music with Lee -1 Total Body Conditioning Warm Up Aerobics, Stretch, Floor-work, Cool Down.

Suitable for Intermediates.

LU

Wednesdays 7.30pm-8.30pm Absolute Beginners with Lee

A team of young footballers have stuck together through difficult times, but have made a good start to the new season.

TheWestSwindon F.C. under 14s, based at Greendown, were outclassed last year in the Swindon Minors League as most of the team were twelve year olds. But the boys trained hard in the summer and are now playing on more equal terms.

TeammanagerFrankBridges congratulated the lads for their hard work. "It was tough for them last year and they finished bottom of the league against much older boys, scoring only 14 goals. But they've kept their spirits up and become good friends."

This season the team, which is newly sponsored by Royal Mail, has scored 32 goals in 8 games.

Back Row, from left to right, Gary Neale, Mark Lawrentce, Wayne Eggleston, Chris Phillips, Stephen Wright, Lee Norman-Thorpe, Nathan Fisher. Front row: Dominic Virgilio, Gary Brown, Peter Suthers, Jamie Bridges, Steven Ellis, Alan Brooks, Geoffrey Swatton. Not pictured, Jason Child, Gareth Hilligenn, Brendan Edwards.

On Course for the New Year

C)

M -4 7

Designed for those people who have not exercised for some time and need gentle re-introduction. Suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities.

Fridays 6.30pm-7.30pm The 'Thank God Its Friday' E Workout with Lee 10 Get fresh for the weekend with I.-r

istm7 aIcf4o cI

The Twelve Days of Christmas

exercise to music designed to stretch that stressed body

From Saturday 12 December until UJ Wednesday 23 December,LinkCen• 0 tre and Delta Tennis Centre will be M jointly offering one special promoSundays 7.30pm-8.30pm tion per day during the run up to Exercise to Music with Lee ig Christmas.

These may include free skate hire, Total Body Conditioning 3<1 catering offers, lunchtime swim ofWarm up, Aerobics, fers, Health Suite reductions and • Stretch, Cool down. many other promotions.

CC Suitable for Intermediates.

Lookout for further details of this Everyone Welcome. great Christmas gift idea for our customers, available shortly from ALL CLASSES HELD IN THE Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre main reception, tel: 871212 or o w GYM GREENDOWN SCHOOL 871111 for information.

LL

UJ

STILL ONLY £2.50

Personal Training for Individuals & Corporate Clients a speciality

Take to the shuttle

The Windmill Badminton Club based at Greendown School is lookRegistration for the new courses at and skating to trampoliningand ten- ing for 10 to 16 year olds interested both Link Centre and Delta Tennis nis, so don't forget to enrol in learning the game.

Brochures are available fromboth Centre starts on Monday 7 DecemThe club holds junior sessions on ber.

Centre's Main Reception now.

Saturdays between 6.30pm and Tel: Link Centre 871212, Delta 8.30pm. Coaching is provided by There's something for everyone to get involved in from swimming Tennis Centre, 871111.

Laurie Jones who hopes to find enough players to enter a league.

Squash Players wanted for new league Young people who would like to If anyone is interested in joining the 1993 Link Centre Squash League join in should just turn up, or give please contact Owen Williams, tel: 871212 for further details. Applications Laurie a call on 643655, or at work, to join are required before 8 January).

513533 ext 2287.

New Activity Courses - Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre

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Link and Delta Christmas and New Year Opening

Link Centre Delta 23 Dec Open Open Closed I24 Dec Closed 25 Dec Closed Closed NO MEMBERSHIP 26 Dec Closed Closed JUST PAY ON THE DAY 27 Dec Open til 6pm Closed 28 Dec Open til 6pm Closed FREE RAFFLE AT THE END 29 Dec Open Open 30 Dec Open Open OF EACH MONTH 31 Dec Open Open 1 Jan Open Closed TEL: 0488 - 684928 OR 2Jan Open Open 0831 - 098273 FOR Please telephone to confirm DETAILS sessions C)

t,.

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Take the amity or, trip to fantasy lend with champion skaters, beautiful costumes & scenery pJFf

Saturday 19th December to Monday 21st December Ring Link Reception 871 212 for times, prices and to book

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School 'transformed' after HMI hammering

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

West Swindon's secondary school, Greendown, is said to have been 'transformed' since an inspection by a team of Her Majesty's Inspectors eight months ago.

The comment was made by the inspecting team leader who revisited the school in the week before half term to monitor the changes brought into place after verbal reports to the school's management team and the Governors in March.

WooD, STEEL AND P.V.C. Doois AND WINDOWS The highly critical report of the SeI'l'UED AND FITTED. KITCHENS, WARDROBES, weeklong inspection was published on 10 November. Although therePoIcuLs ETC. SEculury Locis. No VAT port commends 'a young and hard 30 YEARS IN TRADE. TEL: (0793) 6410571 . 1 working staff who are well qualified and devote time and effort to the pupils and the school,' it is critiV cal of the school's management, orTHE VALET SERVICE ganisation and timetable which were FOR YOUR HOME not, at the time of inspection, well suited to deliver the National Curriculum.

DECORATING Up to 60% of observed lessons Show success: Greendown pupils INSIDE OR OUT were regarded as satisfactoiyorbet- entertained enthusiastic sell-out ter, but the remainder were unsatis- audiences at performances of 'A SPECIAL RATES FOR factory, showing inadequate plan- Musical Extra-vaganza' during early PENSIONERS For a high standard of fling and lacking pace and rigour in November. The original work devised work with references theirdelivery. Expectionof students by art teacher Samantha Gee and was also poor. The lack of clearly music teacher Andre Pysanczyn available Call Decor Valet identified school aims and policies, involved 25 students singing and for a Free Estimate and poor monitoring of pupil acting numbers from Broadway hits, Telephone now for a through to Grease, with a few 'rave' progress was also criticised.

SWINDON 824372 FREE estimate.

Greendown headteacher Ian dance sequences thrown in for No job too small. Personal service Tel: 870515 Matthews said the school had re- contrast. Picturedabove is Samantha / sponded to every point of criticism Brassington dressed for show biz. raised by the HMI and new manLII 1rr ii' lIlt , Arrtl agementand performance monitor- the centre of teaching organisation ing systems had been brought in and classes are now taught by subROY SHENTON I fromSeptember. "We were already ject specialists who follow distinct QUALIFIED studying our operation very care- and clear programmes of study difolly after our first disappointing rectly related to National CurricuPAINTER& It exam results in 1991 at the time of lum requirements.

DECORATOR Student performa nce is also monithe HMI inspection. Their verbal report in March helped us focus on tored closely by senior teachers re& Interior and Exterior our strengths and weaknesses. sponsible for each year group. SysWork undertaken Every aspect of the school has been tems for checking the quality of overhauled." teaching had been brought in to asEstablished 1965 Only 25% of students achieved sist staff build on their experience WINDOW AND DOOR five passes at grades A to C in the and raise standards.

LOCKS FlrthD For free estimates, school's first GCSE results in 1991, Governor chair Roger Ogle said NO JOB TOO SMALL telephone that any school which is criticised with girls at 41% and boys at 9%.

11 This year the school exceeded the has to look very closely at its opera(0793)855099 national average with a 41% AtoC tion. "The staff are to be congratu' '1 lI'LhIi ' I! lated for their courageous and propass rate, girls 55%, boys 27%.

The HMI report criticised Maths fessional scrutiny of theirwork. Last A A A A A A A, A A A A A A^ A ^ A ^^ ^^ AA A AA A^ A A^ AA. 5' 5' '1 '1 '1 '' Si (.1 5? 5? 5? 5? 5? W S. Si 5, %I 5, ., 5? 5.' 5? '.' '.? 5.' %I 5? '.1 teaching at the school, but twenty summer's improved exam results six students passed GCSE Maths a under the old teaching system were yearearly and nine passed twoyears very encouraging.

Raymond Stansfield early.

The 'redesigning' of the school A MrMatthews said that the school's promises much better results whilst DECORATOR aims were explicit in the newly de- retaining the pleasant and caring signed prospectus. From Septem- educational environment we have with over 30 years experience. ber subject departments were put at always had."

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Link Centre's Mad Hatters Tea Party The LinkCentre holds a special 'Mad Hatter's Tea Party' on both Sunday 20 and Monday 21 December at 5.3Opm. At ÂŁ2.99 each child will join in with the Mad Hatter's buffet and will get a party bag to take home.

Some of the characters from the ice show will be on hand.

Bookings are needed at least 7 days in advance.

For further information on either the Ice Show or the Tea Party telephone 871212.

A

Telephone: (0793) 874299

A '.? 5)5)5) 5) 5/SF S/S/SF SF SF SF5151 Si SFSISI SF5) SF S S/S/fl# SFSi s AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

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12 The Link Magazine. December 1992

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Low cost sun lounge option Kingfisher windows and conservatories have come up with an economic way of installing a conservatory.

Their new self-fit modular range comprises of pre-formed interlocking wall and roof panels with double glazed units which can be put up on a DIY basis, or with help from Kingfisher.

Brick and concrete foundations can be used or a pro-fabricated steel base is available.

Kingfisheroffera fitie survey service as well as free advice. Their showroom on Great Western Way also displays a range of furnished conservatories from different suppliers.

Contact Simon Cole on 643866.

Classes keep going in difficult times Adult education classes in West Swindon have been holding up in popularity despite the recession squeezing incomes. It has not been so easy in other areas where many courses did not get off the ground in September, according to localcourse organiser Alex Sandell.

"Most of the courses were successfully launched. Languages continue to be popular, so are Yoga and T'ai Chi." Alex has several interesting courses lined up for January, includingsome new ones. How about Cooking for Men, ideal for any man who wants to improve his culinary skills? And with the boom in classical music, what about Opera for Enjoyment to learn about the finer points of the works in your CD collection?

Thinking about 1993, what about attending the Top to Toe day, with

sessions on keep fit, aerobics, aromatherapy, stress managment and a healthy lunch as well?

For the fashion conscious, there's Eastern Fashion,WesternInfluence, where you'll learn how to combine eastern dress with western clothing.

Learn how to tie a sari or find out how to adapt the styles to make interesting and creative fashions.

Staying with clothing, how about putting life into old jumpers? Learn how to embroider flowers and patterns in wool to give that old canli a new lease of life.

Saturday classes are back in a big way a fter being shut down last year.

There's a days intensive French for your holidays or what about learning about the Historic Railways in Britain and Europe.

You'll find a complete list of Adult Education courses starting in January on page 24.

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The Link Magazineâ&#x20AC;˘ December 1992 13

Cultural celebration

Multi-cultural education meeting

Children and mums who attend the International Women and Toddler Group celebrated the Hindu festival of Diwali, or Festival of Light, at the beginning of November.

The group, which meets weekly in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, caters for people from a range of cultures and countries.

Taking part in the Diwali party, Back row: Siva Rajend ran, Vannessa Sheffield, Sophia Ethrington-Brown, Melba Sheffield, Front: Shanez Ethrington-Brown, Urmila Mehta, Usha Dagger, Samantha Sheffield

Parents concerned about racism in the classroom discussed their concens at a meeting at the Link Centre on 16 November.

Organised by the West Swindon told that all children are treated the Multi-Cultural Womens' Group, the same, but each child has his or her meeting was attended by black and own needs and should be treated as white parents and parents in mixed an individual. Black children still marriges. Daphne Neck from the suffer the stigma which was around Wiltshire eduation authority's in the 1970s that they are less able or Multi-Cultural Centre took part in less intelligent. That's just not true, the discussions and organised a dis- but it suggests that the way the sysplay of books and educationalmate- tem deals with them is not right."

She said those who attended the rials.

Meeting organiser community meeting were encouraged and anworker Miriam Minty said parents other discussion was planned for are concerned about how theirbiack the new year. To find out more, and mixed race children will be contact Miriam Minty on 526161 ext. treated in school. 'Parents are often 4843.

Early date for '93 The January 1993 edition of the Link goes to press on 30 December. Contributors and advertisers are asked to contact us with queries or copy by 16 December.

KEEP FIT FEATURE The Link will be publicising keep fit courses and Christmas Bazaar Saturday 5 December 2pm -5pm at Hook Village Hall Stalls, refreshments, Christmas goods, crafts, raffle etc All proceeds to St Mary's Church, Lydiard Tregoze funds

Christmas Fair Saturday 5 December 2pm -4pm Playgroup Room, Community Suite, Link Centre Stalls, tombola, raffle Proceeds to Link 3-5 playgroup funds

Victorian Christmas Carol Party

Get together in Peatmoor Sunny Smiles Under5s at Pea tmoor is holding a Coffee Morning onTuesday 8 December to give parents the chance to meet the organiser Jackie Wozniak and find out more about the playgroup and the toddler group.

It takes place from 9.45am until 11.45am in the Roughmoor Social Hall. Donations will be welcomed for the coffee and there are toys for children to play with.

All parents are welcome to attend. Those who cannot attend but would like to find out if there are places available at the Sunny Smiles Playgroup or Toddler groups, telephone Jackie on 873284.

a class, contact us about advertising it. If you attend one, tell the organiser about our feature. Tel: 872282

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29 Stone Lane Lydiard Millicent Sunday 13 December 2pm - 6pm Indoors there will be crafts, cookies and other confections on sale for last-minute Christmas shopping while outside Swindon ChoralSodety members will serenade you under a magical Christmas tie. FatherChristma swill be there too with gifts for the children and you can keep warm with wonderful winter punch and hot mince pies.

The party is to raise funds for Swindon Choral Society so they can continue to perform their concerts and follows on from the very successful summer Open Day that raised just under ÂŁ1,000 for two local physically disabled brothers.

For further details contact Liz on 533255 or Chris on 481004.

slimming classes in our January edition. If you run such

HeaLUp Cka4 a Ftvi.., a*J F New Y

STEP INTO THE NEW YEAR WITH OUR NEW ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS CLASS starting Thursday 7 January, 7.30pm - 8.30pm

Freshbrook School, Willows Hall Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm; 8.30pm - 9.30pm Wednesday 7pm - 8pm; 8pm - 9pm Thursday 7.30pm - 8.30pm (Absolute Beginners from 7 January) All Levels Welcome. Classes limited to 25

All Classes at

Tel: Kate on 873597 (eves) or 0865 864182 to reserve a step Instructor: Bernadette Cowap YMCA, RSA & Reebok Step Trained No classes after 17 December. Step starts Monday 4 January 1993 TV personality Johnny Ball joined skaters at the Link Centre on Children in Need Day to organise, costume, rehearse and perform a pantomime on ice - all in about 12 hours. Johnny is pictured above with some of the castfromthe show.

BOOST YOU BUSINESS IN '93 BY ADVERTISING IN THE MOST READ PUBLICATION IN WEST SWINDON TO DISCUSS ADVERTISING IN THE LINK TELEPHONE 872282

14 The Link Magazine• December 1992

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A week of musical activity across Swindon ended on 6 November with a grand concert at the Link Centre when the Bournemouth Sinfonietta was joined by local choirs and children fromSwindon schools, including thirty youngsers from Toothifi's Oliver Tomkins Junior School.

The week was the first ever residency by an Orchestra in Swindon and included workshops with pre-school children and a concert for elderly people in local homes and day centres.

The final concert of popular classics also saw the world premiere of 'The Song of the Tortoise,' by Giles Swayne presented by BBC TV Blue Peter's John Leslie, backed up by 100 school children and 100 members of the Swindon Choral Society.

Pictured below: Bournemouth Sinfonietta percussionist Andrew Barclay with children from Oliver Tomkins Junior School, back row, from left Donna Harber, Matthew Kingstone, Stephanie Carpenter. Middle row, Laura Donald, Sharifa Watson, Faye Davidson, Danielle Whelan, Wing Sum To, Cathy Peat, Helen Rankin. Front: Am Hibberd, Katie Barrett, Emma Beckett

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WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON * Wed 16th Dec 1992 * * Sat 16th Jan 1993 * 'Sow The Seeds' * For A not her Magical Wyvern Spectacle * * the * * * Starring * * MARK FRANKLIN * (GWR FM and 'Top of the Pops * Presenter) as Jack and * TREVOR BANNISTER * * (TV's 'Are You Being Served') as Dame Trott * * Plus A Fabulous Pantomime Cast * * Incredible Party Booking Discounts * Don't Miss It I! -

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Below: John Leslie was unable to pose for photographs with the Oliver Tomkins children at the pre-concert rehearsal, butone lucky kid to catch him was Sam Davies from Randell Close, Shaw, a member of Swindon Young Musicians who also performed.

t. 5 & 12 December

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

ALL TYPES OF PROPERTY URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR PRIVATE OR COMPANY LETS IN THIS AREA

Giant beats them all A huge giant is rehearsing his lines and movements around Swindon's Wyvern Theatre stage in readiness for this year's Pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.

Giant builder Tony Ford, pictured right, from Kirkstall Close, Toothill reckons he's the biggest giant ever made for a panto. He put an advertisement in theatre trade's magazine Stage asking if anybody could better him.

Tony, who is the pantomime production manager, spent 4 weeks with an electric carving knife to slice through the fireproof non-toxicfoam.

"Many Jack and the Beanstalk giants are just representations, shadows on the back of the stage or a large boot," he said. "I wanted a giant that children could relate to, so I went for one based on a fairy tale book lookalike."

and appearances on stage have to be quite short so that the actor can take a break.

84 Victoria Road ,Swindon

Tel: (0793) 430526

COMPETITION How tall Is the Giant?

The giant has eyes and a mouth which opens and shuts. He's hollow so that one of the cast can get inside to move him around the stage.

Tony said it's very hot wearing him

We have three pairs of tickets to see Jack and the Beanstalk at 230pm show on 29 December. You'll also receive tea in the Wyvern Theatre's Harlequin Restaurant where you will meet the cast which includes 'Are you being served' favourite Trevor Bannister and Mark Franklin of GWR FM and Top of the Pops.

All you have to do is guess the height of the giant who stars in Jack and the Beanstalk. Is he 10 toot tall 12' tall 13' tall 14' tall?

Send your guesses to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by 15 December and you could be a winner.

A COMPETITION FOR SENIOR CITIZENS To mark the launch of the MGM Cinema's new film club for retired people, we have ten pairs of tickets to give to the winners of the quiz below. Send your entries to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook by 20 December. (This competition is for pensioners only).

The clues: Across 1. Church instruments are pealing 2. The year after the turn of the century 3. Magician from fantasy land 4. Slang for horse 5. Go out and paint it red 6. Posh leg wear 7. Went away with weather condition

CINEMAS 1

SATURDAY MORNING MOVIES FOR KIDS AT THE MGM 5 December

8. The upper class social circuit 9. Take a ride in a chariot with this man 10. Yank in European city 11. Brothers to wed en-mass 12. Visit to a GP in Russia

Scrooged

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Down 1. The very best in cinema entertainment!

All I Want For Christmas & Children's Party

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Friday 4 December Music Tim Garland's Lammas. A young saxophone hero with a suite of compositions in the twin fields of jazz and Celtic folk music. Link Arts doors open 8pm. £5, conc. £4 Saturday 5 December Walk Three Churches Walk starting from the Lydiard Visitors Centre at 1030am. Bring packed lunch, not suitable for dogs.

Music Those Magical Musicals with Sheila Harrod and Members of the Kentwood Kompany, in aid of Cruse. Wyvern 7.30pm. £6 Sunday 6 December Music Winter Classics presented by The Swindon Symphony Orchestra. Conductor: John Birkin, soloist: Paul Turner (piano).

In aid of the National Playing Fields Association. Wyvern 730pm. £6, conc. £4.50. Sponsored by Nationwide.

Monday 7 December Talk The King and I featuring Ian Botham and Viv Richards.

Wyvern 730pm. £10 Tuesday 8 December Panto A Christmas Carol presented by Stages. Charles Dicken's classic Christmas tale brought vividly to life. Lots of music, singing, dancing, family festive fun and audience participation.

Arts Centre, 7.30. Also Wednesday 9 December - Saturday 12 December. £4.50, conc. £3.50 Dance Janet Smith and Dancers present The World Outside My Window. Wyvern, 730pm. £6, £5, conc. £1.50 off Wednesday 9 December Music Mandy Prior and The Carnival Band present Carols and Capers. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £7.50, £6.50, conc. £1.50 off Wednesday 16 December - Saturday 16 January 1993 Panto Jack and The Beanstalk with Mark Franklin and Trevor Bannister plus The Mollie Tanner Dancers and full supporting cast. Wyvern, matinee and evening performances. Tickets from £5 to £8.50 Friday 18 December Panto Giovanni's Gift by Footprints Theatre Co. Arts Centre, 730pm. Also Saturday 19 December. £4.50, conc. £3 Friday 1 January - SHAKE OUT THE 1992 BLUES with an 8 mile mystery wander to a secret destination organised by Thamesdown Parks Department. Start lOam from Arts Centre, Devizes Road. More info: 490150

Swindon Calor Gas Centre Bridge End Road, Swindon Tel: 0793 613391/612060

THE EUROPEAN COLLECTION at the Wyvern Theatre

CLEANING ENTERPRISES (WROUGHTON)

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

Specialist, Oriental Rug Cleaning service.

Licensed 'Scotchcare' services company.

For enquiries and estimates ring 812575 K ir—', Established I N L_ "' since 1963

V€,ERO1 THE

Boisterous, satirical comedy, passionate drama and fatal attraction combine in a season of excellent drama from three of Europe's greatest playwrights.

The Hypocondriac (Jean-Baptiste Moliere) 26 - 30 January Blood Wedding (Federica Garcia Lorca) 3 - 6 February Romeo & Juliet (William Shapespere) 16 - 20 March Prices from £5.50 to £10.50. Save up to £10.50 if you buy tickets for all three productions.

Wyvern Box Office (0793) 524484 up to 7pm. Credit Cards 694055.

The Best Barn Dances in Swindon at The Dance Huse Ellendune Centre, Wroughton

12 December 8pm Ran Tan Band Tickets cost E415, cones. £3.50 end forUndef 12$, Family discount tickef £12 (2 adults plus any num0el fol thildren) To get a ticket, send an SAE to The Dance House, 131 Goddard Avenue,:Swindon Tickets in advance recommended for this event

17

December Overview Excrutiating Women Fancy your name in lights or treading the boards? Could you be the next Victoria Wood, Vanessa Redgrave, Glenda Jackson on Diana Dors? Or do you yearn to write a script or direct a play?

Well.., here's a chance for any women with a yearning for amateur dramatics. A lack of experience is essential to join SWEAT, the Swindon Women's Excrutiating Alternative Theatre.

Call Sue on 495635 (evenings) or Sue on 538398 (days) for more information.

All aboard to see Santa by steam The Swindon & Cricklade Railway Specials the three weekends in DeSociety, based close to West Swin- cember before Christmas. don are running their popular Santa The trips always prove popular as you rattle up the track from Come and see Santa says Society chairman Jim Larkin Blunsdon Station, steam billowing from the engine and the smell of coke wafting into the carriages.

Trips will be running between 1130am and 430pm on Saturday and Sunday 5/6, 12/13 and 19/20 December. Santa will be handing out gifts to all children who travel.

The Society is raising money to pay for the new bridge over the River Ray which will allow them to lay track to Mouldon Hill, within half a mile of West Swindon.

To get to Blunsdon Station, drive north through Purton, follow the road to Cricklade, turn right at the junction half a mile from Purton and go straight over the next crossroads.

The station is on the right over the next bridge.

.'

33 'S>4'

CHRISTMAS FLOWER POT SALE

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Tel (0793)870192

28th November - 20th December As well as our well known range of hand made frostproof terracotta flowerpots (many at special Christmas discount prices), sL we are now also making colourful glazed 14 pots for cooks and gourmets.

We are sure you will find all our pots make ideal Christmas presents

ZAHRA SUGARING The most effective and natural method of hair removal. Suitable for all parts of the body.

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Ring Joanne on (0793) 613484.

Home visits if required

SOLICITORS Contact us for all your legal needs including house sale & purchases, family matters, personal injury claims and employment law Commerce House, 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon Tel: (0793) 617617

) THIS NEW YEAR ) IT'S TIME TO...

• Try new ideas • Find new friends • Learn new skills Make a new start by joining one of our top-quality EVENING CLASSES Ask Malcolm Davies about: 10, Personal Music Tuition

Introduction to Welsh 'Drum Workshop

10, Swimming

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Groundwell Farm, Cricklade Road, Swindon Tel: 727466 Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.30 pm, Sunday 100pm - 500pm $

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18

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Sneakers at the MGM Lisa Clarke wonders how safe the 'phone lines are There's a powerful message in 'Sneakers', now showing at the MGM. The next world war won't be about guns, or money, but information. Whoever has control of itwins.

This message is wrapped within an interesting plot that rings true in our computer age, and is acted to perfection by an all-star cast.

But why is it called 'Sneakers'?

Do the stars run around in smelly old trainers? The term was coined at a 1981 computer convention to referto IBMs children programmers (who wear trainers rather than brown shoes). Also known as Black Hatters or Tiger Teams, Sneakers are also individuals who break into computer systems in order to test their security.

They're the kind of people who will read your mail, bug your office, listen to your 'phone calls, access the contents of your computer, videotape your meetings or break into your bank. Pretty scary stuff if the information from any of these gets into the wrong hands, which is exactly what happens in this movie.

Martin Bishop (Robert Redford) leads a group of high-tech experts played by Sidney Poitier, River Phoenix, Dan Aykroyd and David Strathairn who scramble to retrieve the 'key to all information' from bad guy Cosmo (Ben Kingsley).

The film also stars Mary 'Dances with Wolves' McDonnell as Liz, formerly Bishop's girlfriend and now his reluctant accomplice.

Director Phil Robinson, who gave us 'Field of Dreams', wrote the screenplay with 'War Games' writers and information technology friends Lawrence Lasker and Walter Parkes.

Using computer encryption as a plot device, the writers explored a 'what if' possibility of a 'black box' that could potentially decode any computer data in the world. The writers also drew from real-life sneakers and state-of-the-art security inventions to bring the scenario to the big screen.

It made me wonder if I can ever quote my credit card number over the telephone again.

New films for the holidays

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Our Wroughton Office Is 10 minutes from West Swindon and offers private carparking for clients

From 11 December - Home Alone II Little Macaulay Culkin returns for a second bout of mayhem with hapless villains Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. This time he's separated from his folks in New York during Christmas time. Will this sequal top the original as the third highest grossing movie ever made?

It certainly has a good start by opening before the school holiday break begins. Max and Lindy Leslie, guest columnists for The Link, will be reviewing Home Alone II in the January edition.

From 18 December - Muppets Christmas Carol Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie and the gang return in a seasonal Dickens tale of how a miser (Michael Caine) becomes an old softie.

From 26 December - The Body Guard Kevin Costner stars opposite singer Whitney Houston in a romantic thriller about an ex-secret service agent assigned to 'mind' a glamorous, reckless celebrity client.

The Link Magazine. December 1992 19

Make it an Elegant Christmas Wootton Bassett's Elegant Beauty Salon has got everything a woman needs to make her look good for the Christmas season.

There's still a few weeks to tone up the muscles with their slimming machines whilst a short course of aromatherapy might be just right for reducing stress in preparation for the holiday break.

The salon has a special offer price

of £11.95 for a skin care and makeup with manicure session.

Elegant Beauty also offer nail tip extensions, hair removal by waxing orelectrolysis, eyebrow shapingand eyelash tinting.

As they say at Elegant Beauty, 'you'll leave us a new woman ready for the Christmas parties.'

To make an appointment, Chris on 855026.

Dad's Positive

Under 5s Xmas Disco

Local community worker Pam Pixton is trying to find out how many fathers in WestSwindon are responsible forpre-school children for some or most of the day.

Pam is concerned that although groups call themselves Parent and Toddler groups, in fact they mainly attract women. "There might be children who don't get the chance to play with others and fathers who may like to chat about their child care responsiblities," said Pam. Any fathers who would like to discuss the idea should contact Pam on 871212 ext 234.

BEAUTY

Senior Citizens Tuesday & Thursday Perms from £14 inc. S/Set

Merry Christmas from Roseanna and Marilyn "Just to let you know about the diet. I've lost pounds!"

The West Swindon Focus on Under 5s 'Free For All' attracted 200 parents and children for a morning of play fun at the Community Suite at the Link Centre in November.

Claudette Hogan gets into some serious water play

DEVELOPED BY DOCTORS OVER 20 YEARS

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D.R.R SERVICING

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SERVICE OR REPAIR ANYWHERE

NIGHTSTICK/DUALGUARD Worried about your car being stolen or house being burgled?

With the increase in joy riding and house crime you can now secure your car for as little as £39.95 and your house for £49.95.

We offer cost effective/easy to fit/portable security at competitive prices, and the added bonus of up to 25% discount on insurance.

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Security by Christmas Apart from your home, your car is probably the most valuable thing you own, but it's also the most vulnerable. In the U.K. a vehicle is either stolen or has it's contents stolen every 6 seconds. The inconvenience of sorting out the results of theft or an attempt to steal your vehicle is enormous, so fitting an alarm is something owners should seriously consider.

Two local businesses can help you out with security advice. CaryDavey Heart-to-Heart of CD Marketing in Shawis marketat the Ibis ing the widely publicised Nightstick from £39.95 including VAT. This Margaret Mclvor writes high visibility device locks onto the In February 1992, some 125 people, top of the steering wheel. The elec- all wishing to raise money for heart tronic version flashes when armed research, enjoyed a Valentine's Ball and lights up if tampered with, thus at the Ibis Hotel in West Swindon. It putting off would-be thieves. was such a popular evening that the CD Marketing also sells the easy Swindon Branch of theBritishHeart to fit DualGuard home Fire, Smoke Foundation are planning another Ball for Saturday 13 February 1993. and Intruder Alarm for £49.95.

Lydiard M.illicentbased company We extend a cordial invitation to Advanced VehicleSecurity can sup- those in West Swindon who wish to ply and fit all the major brands of support the work of the BHF. alarms, but have identified six sysThe Ibis Hotel are offering us their tems suitable for specific budgets excellent dining and dancing faciliand types of vehicle, such as cars, ties at the remarkably low price of cabriolets, caravans and motorbikes. £15 per ticket. This includes a superThey also fit Vecta anti-theft sys- lative 3-course meal, dancing to live tems which are approved by Gen- music, and unparalleled offers on eral Accident and Norwich Union wines throughout the evening. who will give insurance discounts There will bea mega-raffleand some of up to 10% when one is fitted. stunningprizes. Tickets will beavailAVS technicians are fully quali- able shortly from Roger Datsun on fied to fit auto-electricians and have 770503. fit security systems to British StandWhy not arrange a party of eight ard requirements. and share a table with friends? Do Don't become a victim of vehicle come, we would like to meet you, theft. You never know when you'll and it's a first-rate opportunity for a be the target. heart-to-heart!

A SPARE ROOM AT THE WEEKEND FOR ONLY

£25!

That's right, if you live in the Swindon area you don't have to spring-clean the kids' room, you can put your friends or relatives up at the Hotel Ibis for just £25 per room per night including VAT' The Hotel Ibis Swindon is offering this fantastic bargain offer on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights for just £25 per room per night for a single or double room, all with en-suite bathrooms.

All you have to do is telephone our reservation department quoting the "SN" promotion and your postcode, or you can send us the coupon on this advertisement - either way, we'll send you a brochure about the hotel together with details of our great value Sunday Lunch menus!

Wouldn't that be better than turning the house upside down?

Hotel Ibis Swindon, Delta Business Park, Great Western Way, Swindon SN5 7XG. Tel: 0793 514777 Name Address Postcode

The Link Magazine. December 1992 21

Cash boost for local project

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Giving and receiving, Michelle Busson and Chris Young from Texaco, Shirley Ann-Field holding Ryan Brewer from Freshbrook, lame Baine, Rod Phipps from Texaco from Christina Ockwell and Vanessa Lee, Supervisor, Texaco Customer Services The National Children's Home re- chequeon behalf of the organisation ceived a cash injection of E22,000 which has run the Family Project, raised by employees of Texaco Fu- since 1981.

The money was raised by local els in Swindon at a presentation on 11 November at the West Swindon Texaco employees to mark their 75th anniversary. They visited the project Family and Community Project.

Actress Shirley-Ann Field, who earlier this year and were very enwas brought up by NCI-I, received a thusiastic about supporting its work

Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 0793 - 886022

THE KITCHEN FITTER Kitchen supply and/or installation service * Professional installation service * Sensible prices * Worktop mitering service For a reliable, efficient service

Coffee morning for newcomers

Break Aways

Breakaways area group based at the West Swindon Family Project who put together their own programme of talks and activities, most of which are free to all. If you would like to come along, either give us a ring to let us know you're coming so that we can keep an eye open for you, or just turn up on the day!

December events and activities at The West Swindon Family & Community Project, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook-Thursdays, lOam -12 noon 10 December Sweet Making 17 December Cracker Making Newcomers welcome. Free creche for under 5s. For further details Pizza Hut helps kids please contact Dona or Gina at the Pizza Hut at the Shaw Ridge Leisure Project, tel: 871303.

Park supports the NSPCC through the Swindon Business Cares for West Swindon Kids Committee.

Townswomens Guild They've raised over 9-1,500 since last June and are going to add to Doreen Shaw, secretary, writes this amount leading upto Christmas. Leon Street from the National Trust From 7 to 23 December Santa was our guest speaker for Novemwill be his grotto in the restaurant ber and he showed us slides of buildbetween 5pm and 7pm and children ings and gardens which have incan pay him a visit for £1, half of spired us to visit some of these places next year. which goes to the NSPCC. We are all looking forward to our Then there will be carol singing every day between 14 and 24 De- next meeting on 10 December as our Chairwoman Mrs Stevens is demcember, 4.30pm and 630pm.

And whilst you enjoy your pizzas, onstrating flower arranging.

If you would like to join the Guild the staff have concocted two cocktails especially for children - the ringStevie, 873567orDoreen, 693707 festivallyfruity 'Santa's Surprise' and for more information The Chairwoman and Committhe frothy 'Snowman. They cost 75p each and proceeds go to the tee would like to wish all our members a happy Christmas and New NSPCC. It sounds good for a good cause. Year.

New people to West Swindon can find out more about what is available in the area at a weekly coffee morningheld onTuesdays, 10am to 12 noon in the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

It is run by community worker PamPixtonand anybody new to the area is welcome to attend. Pam also welcomes people longer term residents whose lives have changed, for example women who have left work to have a baby.

Newcomers can just turn up and join in.

TEL: (0793) 870790

NEW YEAR'S EVE GALAEVENING AT THE

/1/IIcE €XPE' Begin the New Year with The Chinese Experience at our unforgettable Gala Evening See out 1992 with Comedians O'Dell & Wain, vocalist Julie Dee, the Michelle Davee Dancers and disco dance your way into 1993. Tickets £35 per head Menu for the Evening Mixed Hors D'Oeuvres

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Available 7 days a week 530pm - 10pm

22 The Link Magazine• December 1992

Pensioners special shopping evening

CARLTON REFRIGERATION

Pensioners and people with disabilities had a special shopping evening to themselves at Asda on 2 December. Local community organisations joined forces with Asda staff volunteers to assist with shopping and entertainment.

SERVICE & REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES OF FRIDGES & FREEZERS

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

Opening Hours During Christmas Holidays 24th December 12noon - 1.45pm; 5pm - 10pm Closed: 25th December, 26 December, 27th December, 28th December, 29th December Open: 30th December, normal hours 31st December, nomal hours until 10pm 1st January, normal hours. Then open every day except Monday

Tel: 487055 -A-

1MAYS The Travel Agents Carlson Travel Network in connection with

Offer you a complete range of holiday options for summer 1993 Florida from £349 Egypt from £299 California from £399 Cyprus from £229 Summer Sun from £179 Greece from £189 The Caribbean from £299 Subject to availability Cash discounts available up to £150

Call in and see us at the West Swindon Centre for a complete friendly service, or contact us on Swindon 873222 Open 6 days a week

WEST SWINDON'S TRAVEL CENTRE

Weston carnival outing Fifty members of the Freshbrook Sunday Care Centre had a free day of fun and entertainment laid on for themon Monday 16Novembercourtesy of the staff at Asda.

After a high tea in the store restaurant, the senior citizens took a coach trip to Weston-Super-Mare to see the carnival, followed by a sandwich supper.

Asda staff raised £600 in two months at a Halloween dance, a raffle, a cake stall and a hairdressing for staff day to pay for the outing.

Right; Beattie Norman, Ada Fowler, Doris Penbie and Jean Carey ready to ride to the Weston carnival

Gang Show appeal for help Dave Prior writes On 31 March and 1, 2, and 3 April 1993 over 200 members of the Scout and Guide Associations from the Thamesdown area will be presenting'Gang Show '93' at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

These lads and lasses together with their leaders work hard for some months to present this show in addition to taking part in theirregular meetings and other Scouting and Guiding activities.

During this time they will learn farmore than theirparts in the show.

They will gain in self confidence, in tolerance and self disciplineand will experience a wonderful spirit of cooperation.

Unfortunately the cost of hiring the Wyvern Theatre and producing the show comes to about £10,000, far exceeding the income we can expect to receive from box office receipts.

We are therefore seeking financial assistance in the form of sponsorship or in the purchasing of advertising space on our programme.

The minimum cost for advertising is £30 for a quarter page, £60 for half page, and £120 for a full (A4) page.

If companies or persons wish to support the show but not necessarily by advertising, any donation of £10 or more will be acknowledged in the programme. The deadline for advertisingcopy forourprogramme is 30 January; cheques should be made payable toThamesdown Gang Show.

If you would like to help us or know of anyone who can, or if you require any further information please contact Dave Prior, 4 Trent Road, Greenmeadow, Haydon Wick, Swindon, Wilts SN2 3LT. Tel: 529476

Halloween picture winners A Halloween colouring competition at a Tregoze School in Grange Park produced excellent entries according to competition sponsor Barry Brock, manager of the Swindon branch of the Cornerstone Estate Agency.

Over 100 hundred children were presented with certificates and two winners were selected from each class. They were taken toaSwindon bookshop and given the chance to select a book of their choice.

"The pictures were of a very high standard and the overall winner by Rhianne Kandya was really spooky," said Mr Brock.

Headteacher Steve Menham said the school had been concentrating on promotingbooks and raising levels of literacy; the competition had been a welcome addition to the school's project work. "The children enjoyed putting their ideas into the drawings."

The Link Magazine• December 1992 kJ

Calling scrabblers Can you turn a word or two? The Swindon Scrabble Club is looking for you.

They meet every Thursday, between 7pm and 10pm, in the CornmunityRoomatWestlea School and are keen to meet newcomers who would like to learn the game and also anybody who wants to improve.

Club organiser Jan Jandrell from Westlea says the group play for fun, but there's a good sense of competition. 'People of any level will enjoy playing Scrabble with us; it will improve their game."

Newcomers can turn up and join in, or call Margaret Keech on 521089.

RESIDENTIAL LETTING AGENTS

Bishop Edgington.

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FUGHT SHOP GET READY FOR '93'

Members of the Swindon Scrabble Club, rear left Margaret Keech, Maureen Wilson, front, Breda Kelly, Sheila Woolhouse, Marion Kingsbury, Jan Jandrell

Water Softener firm sponsors water sport champ Link magazine advertiserBrian Cox of Kinetico Water Softeners is pictured below with British 750ccJet Ski champion Alan Pond from Wood Hall Park who he helped sponsor to the World Jet Ski championships in the USA in October. Alan took fifteenth place out of hundreds of competitors. The experience has fired him up to qualify for next year.

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RING: (0793) 512612

FOR THE BEST CHRISTMAS BARGAINS AROUND

Seasons çRCcrinqs PC&.CCfU(\ew çJeoR

VISIT THE LINK CENTRE OPEN AIR MARKET EVERY TUESDAY 9am-4pm

* *

Hundreds of bargains

FROM

the

(liese Swindon Laboup, papzry

All new goods guaranteed

'Serving the community throughout the year'

Don't miss our other great markets in Swindon Greenbridge - Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday 9am - 4pm & Cavendish Square - Thursday 9am - 4pm Wendy Fair Markets, Ruislip, Middlesex • Tel: 0895 - 675558 ARMO

Contact Councillor Sue Bates, tel: 872247

Swindon College in West: Swindon

SWINDON COLLEOE

Full course brochure and enrolment form available by calling 871413 or visiting the Adult Community Education Office at Greendown School All courses at Greendown Community School unless otherwise specified Subject ARTS, CRAFTS & HOBBIES Flower Arranging - Oliver Tomkins School Painting & Drawing Woodwork Silversmithing & Jewellery Making Calligraphy Dressmaking - All standards Pottery for Fun Quilling for Beginners Photography & Darkroom for beginners Upholstery & Soft Furnishing

Day

Time

L'gth

Start

Cost

Code

Mon Tue Tue Tue Wed Wed Wed Wed Wed Thu

7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9

10 wks 10 wics 10 wks 10 wics 10 wics 10 wks 10 wks 8 wks 10 wks 10 wks

25 Jan 12 Jan 12 Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 13 Jan 13 Jan 13 Jan 13 Jan 14 Jan

£26 £26 £26 £26 £26 £26 £26 £21 £26 £26

AGV71N AGG31N AGG95N AGG99N AGG81N AGG12N AGG83N AGG93N AGG51N AGG21N

CAR MAINTENANCE Car Maintenance for Beginners Car Maintenance for Beginners

Wed Thu

7-9 7-9

10 wks 10 wks

13 Jan £26 14 Jan £26

VGG61N VGG63N

COOKERY Cookery for Men only Basic Sugar Flowers Advanced Cake Icing Chinese Cookery European Cookery Advanced Cake Icing

Mon Tue Wed Wed Thu Thu

7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9 7-9

10 wks 10 wks 10 wks 10 wks 10 wks 10 wks

1lJan 12 Jan 13 Jan 13 Jan 14 Jan 14 Jan

£26 £26 £26 £26 £26 £26

FGGIIN FGG44N FGG41 N FGG98N FGG13N FGG45N

Thu

7-9

10 wks

14 Jan £26

KGG71N

Wed

6-8

6 wks

28 Apr £42

KGV70N

Thu

6,30

6 wks

10 Jun £42

KGV73N

Tue

7-9

1 wk

30 Mar £3

UGG1 6N

Sun

12noon 1 wk

Mon Tue

6.30 7-9

HORSES Understanding Horses Module 11 Cardage Driving for Beginners - Lower Shaw Farm Cardage Driving for Beginners - Lower Shaw Farm GENERAL INTERESTS Local History: Canals in Swindon Guided walk along Swindon's canals Meet at Fire Station, Fleming Way KEEP FIT, YOGA & TAI CHI Tone & Shape - Freshb rook School Yoga - Westlea School LANGUAGE Italian 1 LIFESTYLE Aromatherapy for Beginners Hypnosis for Relaxation - Stress Control Assertiveness Training Tai Chi - Beginners - Westlea School Tai Chi - Improvers - Westlea School

Tue

Tue Thu Thu Thu Thu

7-9

7-9 7-9 7-9 7-8 8-9

10 wks 10 wics

10 wks

8wlcs 10 wks 8 wks 10 wks 10 wks

4Apr £2.60

UGV12N

11 Jan £19.50 KGV21N 12 Jan £19.50 YGV24N

Progress through Learning Time

L'gth

Start

Tue Wed Thur

7-9 7-9 7-9

10 wks 10 wks 10 wks

12 Jan £16.60 SGG53S 13 Jan £16.60 SGG59S 14 Jan £16.60 SGG57S

Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat

10-12 10-12 1-4 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-12 10-4

3wks 5wks 5wics 1 wics 2 wks 1 wk 6 wks 1 wk

16 Jan 16 Jan 16 Jan 23 Jan 23 Jan 30 Jan 30 Jan 6 Feb

Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat

10-4 10-4 10-12 1-4 10-4 10-4

1w 1 wk 5wks 5 wks 3wfcs 1 wk

6Feb £12 27 Feb £12 27 Feb £13 27 Feb £13 27 Feb £36 6 Mar £12

AGS17N AGSI3N AGS37N AGS39N AGS29N AGS22N

Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat

10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4

1 wk Iwk 1 wk 1 wk 1 wk 1 wk

6 Mar £12 27 Mar £15 27 Mar £15 27 Mar £12 27 Mar £25 24 ApI £12

AGS71N AGS31N AGS44N AGS72N AGS98N AGS14N

FOOD STUDIES: SERVICE & COOKERY Plan Your Own Wedding Buffet Cakes & Pasteries Chinese Cookery Dim Sum Chinese Cookery Cakes for Easter

Sat Sat Sat Sat Sal

10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4

1 wk 1 wk 1 wk 1 wk 1 wk

16 Jan £20 30 Jan £15 27 Feb £15 6 Mar £15 27 Mar £15

FGS71N FGS43N FGSI4N FGS99N FGS44N

GENERAL EDUCATION Maths Exam Techniques Maths Exam Techniques

Sat Sat

10-4 10-4

1 wk 1 wk

20 Mar £12 8 May £12

GGSI 1 GGS12N

GENERAL INTEREST & HOBBIES Bridge for Beginners Want to Write? Writers Workshop Historic Railways in Great Britain & Europe Literature & Philosophy Historic Railways in Great Britain & Europe

Sat Sat Sat Sat Sat

10-12 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4

10 wks 1 wIt 1w fwk 1w

16 Jan 23 Jan 6Feb 13 Feb 8May

£26 £15 £15 £15 £15

UGS19N UGS67N UGS14N UGS60N UGS15N

Sat Sat Sat Sat

10-12 10-12 10-4 10-4

lOwIcs lOwIts 2wks 2wks

16 Jan 16 Jan 30 Jan 8 May

£26 £26 £24 £24

LGS31N LGS7IN LGS11N LGS12N

Sat Sat

10-12 10-12

6wks 6wks

1 May £42 12Jne £42

KGS71N KGS72I4

10-4 10-4 10-4 10-4

lwk lwk lwk lwk

16 Jan £15 27 Feb £25 20 Mar £12 22 May £25

PGS16N PGS12N PGS15N PGS13N

SATURDAY COURSES ARTS & CRAFTS Know your Sewing Machine Portrait Drawing Watercolour Painting Machine Knitting- An introduction Pottery - Throw, Fire & Glaze a pot Batik & Silk Painting An History - From Cezanneto Rothko Make a Patchwork Cushion Introduction to Upholstery & Soft Furnishings New Jumpers for Old Portrait Drawing Watercolour Painting Eastern Fashion - Western Influence Silk Painting Floral Decorations for Weddings & Dinners Parties Introduction to Drawing Painting in Oils - An Introduction Spring Flowers for Your Easter Table Fine An & Furniture - 19 Century Embroider Your House or Garden

12 Jan 14 Jan 14 Jan 14 Jan 14 Jan

£21 £26 £42 £13 £13

PGG16N PGG11N UGG44N YGV02N YGV05N

7-9

10 wics

11 Jan £26

DGG99N

NURSERY EDUCATION AT LINK CENTRE Wed Parent & Toddler Wed Movement to Dance Wed Wed

10-11 11-12 10-11 11-12

5wks 5wks 5 wks 5wks

13Jan 13 Jan 24 Feb 24 Feb

NGV65N NGV66N NGV67N NGV68N

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Carriage Driving for Beginners Carriage Driving for Beginners

OFFICE SKILLS & BUSINESS Word Processing - Elementary Word Processing - RSA1 Marketing Communications Sales Promotion

2.30 7-9 7-9 7-9

10 wks 20 wks 5 wks 5 wks

11 Jan £16.60 11 Jan £33.40 23 Feb £26 12 Jan £26

SGG58S SGG60S MGG63N MGG62N

PERSONAL: HAIR, BEAUTY& HEALTH RELATED Sat Beauty Workshop Sat Top to Toe Day (Lunch included) Sat Reflexology & Healing Sat Top to Toe Day (Lunch included)

Mon

Mon Mon Tue Tue

£19.50 £13 £13 £12 £18 £15 £15.60 £12

AGS20N AGS36N AGS38N AGS1IN AGS81 N AGS27N AGS96N AGS15N

12 Jan £27.50 LGG72N

LANGUAGES German 1 Italian 1 French for Your Holidays French for your Holidays

MUSIC Opera for Enjoyment

Cost

Code

Day

Subject OFFICE SKILLS& BUSINESS cont.

Word Processing - Elementary Word Processing - Elementary Word Processing

£10 £10 £10 £10

Letters to The Link

25

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to the address on page 2.

Play areas in Toothill

The Church in West Swindon

From Helen Lawrence, Springfield Close, Westlea From Coun. Mike Rutland, Chervil Cl. Moredon The recent exodus of clergy from as they are. The people wifi carry on Following the recent article in The (site 2), Oakham Close. (site 2), both Link by Coun. Linda Green on the sites at Kirkstall Close, Edington West Swindon's churches may in- much of the work of the church, just

review of play areas in the Toothill area of Toothill Ward, it has been agreed by Leisure Services that the following areas will be retained as intermediate play areas.

Mayenden Park Stansfield Close Folly Park on Flint Hill Oakham Close (site 1) Tintagel Close Cowdrey Close Conisborough Whitehill Park Stanford Close (site 1) With regard to the other sites in the Toothill area, all equipment except the swings will be removed from Markenfield, Longthorpe Close, Deerhurst Way (site 2), Colchester Close, Beaulieu Close, Warnford Close, Stansfield Close.

Close, and Stanford Close. (site 2).

The site on Freshbrook Way next to Bosham Close. will be subject to local consultation in the early part of next year.

The sites in Westlea, Shaw, Roughmoor and Sparcells areas all comply with current safety standards but due to the current shotage of funds, it is unlikely that any major new play areas will be built with the exception of those for which private developers have provided funds.

We hope to meet officers from the Leisure Services Department in the New Year to discuss any further developments in the Toothill area.

If any readers would like details on the sites mentioned above, please telephone me on 724927 or Linda Green on 875825.

WIN A BRAND NEW VIDEO TAPE FROM VIDEO SOLENT Colour the picture below and send it to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon The best entry from an under 12 wins a copy of Disney's new hit release Cinderalla. Closing date: 20 December.

Name

Date of Birth

vite a comparison with the 'Marie Celeste', (the ship whose crew disappeared)! Anne, Helen and Ian have gone and Rev Keith Boxall is moving on to Bristol in the New Year.

Someone asked a church member if we were worried by having so few ministers left. She replied 'ButJesus is still here - if he were to go, then we'd worry!'

The church is more than buildings -and more than ministers, vital

(

N

as we do now.

Of course, Rev John Flory and Rev Rob Burles will have an increased load of 'hatches, matches and despatches' to share between them and some pastoral care and administration will need to be shared more widely. This is all very good for us.

The church was never meant to be a train with a driver and lots of passengers. We are to be more like a lifeboat with all hands of deck.

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1DEOPICS

V-EOFCS TRANSFER

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To transfer your cinĂŠ film, slides & photos onto video, please contact

VideoPics (0793) 513305 (24 hours) Also USA/UK Format Conversions

YP

Address

A Christmas '2e SELECTED

VIDEO RENTALS., only

.Lbok for the special :Torange stickers on selected family films through o ut the SC ho - oliholidaysand SAVE.

SOLENT

WEST SWlNDONENTRE TEL: 871529

26

Local Lives Keepmg an eye on the land

Claire King from Westlea is one of a team who cares for the nations aerial photographs

1 have lived in Swindon for the last for the last two and a half. Before four years, and have worked here that I worked for the Museum of London, and commuted to London every day. I was glad to leave that The Link Classifieds behind!

Lineage costs 20p per word For the last three years I have been Cash with advert to The Link, working in the National Library of 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Air Photographs, which is part of Cheques made out to West the Royal Commission on the HisSwindon Publications please toric Monuments of England (RQ-IME). The library has nearly For Hire - Santa Claus Suit. four million photographs of EngDeposit £10. Charge £4 per land, split into two collections hour. Tel: 874252 The earliest that we have is of Mothers Help wanted in Shaw.

Stonehenge, from the early 1900s 3 days/week. Must be registered and was taken from balloon! Most childminder of NNEB. of our photography is fairly old Tel: 872074 (1940s to the 1960s), but we have Wanted to rent - Garage in Village more recent photographs of many Inn area of Shaw. Will pay monthly. of the historical and architectural Call John, 870804 beauties that this country possesses.

Almost the whole of England was Clothing Alterations & Repairs photographed by the RAF in 1946 Tel: 872096 and 1947, and these along with all Mrs White, Freshbrook the other photographs that we hold are of use to all sorts of people. We have helped with boundary disWashing Machine Repairs putes, helped people find the line of • Same Day Service canals that have since disappeared, • Guaranteed Repairs and even found photographs of For a friendly, towns that people were evacuated helpful to in the war. There are all sorts of service, call uses. Photographs show what was J. Martin inaplaceat the time it was taken, As Tel: 694930 a result we have photographs of 1 Alnwick, Toothill World War II airfields with planes

Claire and a photo of Swindon's rail works site in the day s of the railways on them, people rowing on the Serpentine in Hyde Park (they look like water beetles, because of the height of the plane), there's a great deal to see.

Photographs of Swindon show it before the redevelopment of the town centre as well as the Mannington roundabout being built. We also have more recent photographs of the Magic Roundabout. One of our colleagues in Europe didn't believe our description, so we sent him a copy!

One of the main uses of the collec-

tion is for the identification of archaeological sites. We have pictures of crop mark and earthworks that show the position of remains which otherwise would be hardly visible. One of our nicest jobs is helping people from all over the country who are interested in the history and archaeology of their home areas. As I trained as an archaeologist, the work is fascinating and every picture holds anew story.

When I'm not at work, I like to keep fit and active. I train in karate three times a week, and also use the health suite at the Link Centre. Karate is great fun, and my only regret is that too many women are put off by the 'Macho' image that many clubs have. At present I'm the only woman in our club.

In early Decemberl am going to a National Competition inNorthampton. Hopefully I'll add to the two second and two thirds that I already have from sparring in three other competitions in the last year!

As a relative newcomer to Swindon, I find it an interesting and challenging town, with friendly people.

I hope that others coming here will enjoy it as much as I have.

If you would like to contact the library to find out more about our photographs, the telephone number is Swindon 414100.

&asorrs 9rcci

s to all our Customers f rom2s k i Ion 'Way 9'6rmacy Holiday Opening Hours Christmas Day 11.30am - 12.30pm Boxing Day

11.30am - 12.30pm

Sunday 27 December 11.30am - 12.30pm Monday 28 December Closed New Years Day

Closed

Saturday 2 January 11.30am - 12.30pm Sunday 3 January 11.30am - 12.30pm Ashington Way Pharmacy, Westlea, Swindon.. Tel: 616840

C9 ,;)~ r

i,5tm a,5 e r u ic,eS

St Peter's Roman Catholic Church, Carronbridge Road, Eastleaze 24 December

6.30pm Children's Christmas Liturgy 11.30pm Christmas Carols followed by Midnight Mass (Father Tom would like parishioners attending Midnight Mass to park carefully on Carronbridge Road or park in the Asda car park and walk up the hill.

25 December 10am Mass

Freshbrook Church, Freshbrook Village Centre 20 December

25 December

10am Family Service 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight followed by coffee and mince pies 10am Family Service

United Churches in the West Swindon Ecumenical Project Lydiard Millicent Services in the Village Hall Holy Communion 20 December 8am 10.30am Christingle Carol Service 7pm 11.30pm Holy Communion 24 December Holy Communion 25 December 8am 1030am Family Service with communion Toothill 20 December 10.45am Parade service led by Sunday School Christingle followed by 4pm Communion Service, then Bring and Share Tea 11.30pm Holy Communion 24 December 10.45am Family Service with Communion 25 December Lydiard Tregoze, St Mary's in Lydiard Park 10.30am Childrens Carols 20 December 6.30pm Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight 11 .30pm Holy Communion 24 December 10.30am Family Communion 25 December 10.30am Holy Communion 27 December 6.30pm Songs of Praise Westlea 10am Morning Servic 20 December 330pm Carols and mince pies Family Communion 10am 25 December 27 December 10am Morning Service Shaw 10.30am Toy Service 13 December 10.30am Childrens Carols 20 December 6 .30pm Nine Lessons and Carols 24 December 11.30pm Holy Communion 10.30am Jesus Birthday Celebration 25 December followed by communion 10am Baptism Service 27 December 6.30pm Carols and cake Pensioners quiz from page 15. Where do these films fit in?

American in Paris High Society Two Thousand and One Silk Stockings The Bells are Ringing Lastly, what does MGM stand for?

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Ben Hur Wizard of Oz or Zivago Gone with the Wind On the Town Gi Gi

27

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road

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

Will give YOU a warm

welcome

St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park

Sunday lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30prn Evening Worship and

Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Westlea

Rev. John Flory 770217 t

Communion

Shaw and Sparcells

For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

SWINDON & CPJCKLADE RAILWAY

SANTA SPECIAL TRAINS 5th/6th, 12th/13th, 19th/20th December 11.30am to 4.30pm Take Tewkesbury Way, north through Lydiard Millicent to Purtori, follow the road to Cricklade, turn right a junction half mile from Purton and straight over next cross road. Station car park on right over bridge.

For further information, please ring Blunsdon Station on 771615 (weekends only)

HIV/AIDS HELPLINE Are you concerned?

SWINDON PROJECT FOR AIDS COUNSELLING AND EDUCATION

Visit your local, friendly, Drop-In Centre which offers: confidential support, information and advice.

Or call us on Swindon (0793) 420620 Helpline: Tuesday/Thursday 7pm 9pm, 24 Hr Answering Service Drop-In: Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 12.00pm 6.00pm 172 Victoria Road, Swindon -

-

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

Christmas Greeti'ngsftom WEST SWINDON'S QUICK FIT CENTRE FREE BRAKE CHECKS

FREE WINTER CHECKS

Remove ALL wheels & brake drums Inspection of all parts including brake pipes and hoses Check List and Report supplied

Condition of radiator & hoses Antifreeze viscosity Fan belt Lighting Battery charging

Telephone: (0793) 641643 WI1IU WAIT

0U Repairs All Estia e Given-Free

FOR: SERI03 Exhausts Tvres snock Absorbers Brakes Clutches at Very C01TtP etitive Rates

OSCh piagTt0S i &t

Injectl-On Specialists

â&#x20AC;¢

Servicing &t Rep 2tiTS

COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

0 BOSCH

A -A 04IA~ ,1 -

STOCKIST

BOSCH SERVICE TITCOMBE GARAGE

TITCOMBE GARAGE LTD.

Westmead Drive, Westlea, West Swindon Telephone: (0793) 641643 Fax: (0793) 491020

Grange Park