December 1997 Swindon Link

HE

No. 187 • December 1997 • Circulation 17,500

Swindon

TSP 610188 (01793)

II

Fax: (O1793)613316

Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park & Abbey Meads

newsforce in West and North Swindon swindon wide what's on guide

• Small transits I Luton vans I Tippers I Dropsides • 7, 12, 17 seater mini-buses with factory fitted belts • House removal vehicles I Daily, weekly, monthly hire

T.S.P. HOUSE CHENEY MANOR TRADING EST. SWINDON

Winter is here

77 "The day Imet the Queen' A Very Happy Christmas to all our readers

See our

Months of preparation across Swindon came to fruition when the Queen visited the town on 7 November.

Lunch at Lydiard House was on the programme and we asked Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of the house, to describe the planning and organisation for the big day.

AGE..

Co SWINDON feature on pages 33 to 36

Left: a Royal wave to the children of Trego:e Sc/too/ gathered outside Lydiard House behind the camera

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COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC

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The Link Magazine. December 1997

GRA Accountancy Services

Search us out on the Internet

Gisela Rehbein

If you're buying a computer for Christmas and you're going on-line, make sure you go straight to: www.i-way.co.uk/.--swindonlink Then book mark the site as a must look for future visits. swindonlink is the towns only prospectus and a page on how to general news site on the Internet make your garden and immediate containing stories and images from environment more friendly to butThe Link magazine, information terflies, thanks to John Ball of on over 500 voluntary organisa- Grange Park.

We would like to hear from you. tions, contacts for pubs, restaurants Send us an e-mail with your ideas and what's on information.

Recently added are images of for the site. Have a Happy Christthe past provided by the Swindon mas. May it not be virtual, but real Society, the Greendown School and people connected.

Start up/Book-keeping/Annual accounts/Self assessment tax Short & long term assistance and projects

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Merry ,Christmas.

Happy New Year

The best selling board game of all time, Monopoly, meets Star Wars, the biggest ever movie trilogy, in a new interactive, full motion 3D computer game from Hasbro.

Choose one of 8 film characters including Luke Skywalker, Chewbacca and Darth Vader and build an intergalactic property empire. The game remains true to the rules of the classic board version, but you'll be building fleets and spaceports. Clips from Star Wars give the game a completely unique look and feel.

It costs £39.99. We have a copy to give away. Answer the question, 'what is the most expensive property in traditional Monopoly?'

Send your answers to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon 5N5 8PQ by 19 December and you could have an out of this world Christmas.

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flilifi'lk M%t Published by West Swindon Publications

Editorial: Roger Ogle

Harley Davidson Motor Cycles Star Trek-Fighter Plane Locomotion-Cadillac Car-Police Car-Barking Dog-Meew Cat-Panda !

London Phone Box-Talking Teddy Bear etc.

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UWI[L Off AMrMEDT HOLMES MUSIC FARIFICDON ROAD SWINDON Tel: 534095 Copy date for January edition: 10 December Published: 3 January 1998 Copy for February 1998: 15 January

Contents Toothill 4 Westlea 5 Freshbrook & Grange Park 6 Haydon Wick 8 9 Abbey Meads 10 Shaw Letter from Westminster 12 13 The Library 14-16 Recreation 23-25 Swindon Wide 33-36 Age Concern Free advertisements 38

Publisher/Editor The contents of The Link are protected by 13 Castle Dore d Apple Macintosh design, copyright, copying of advertisements for Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8P0 layout and lasersetting business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers Tel: (01793) 872282 Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol have sought permission. Articles and Fax: (01793) 878189 www.i-way.co.ukl--swindonlink photographs require similar authority. e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com 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 a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994."

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK CALL (01793) 872282

The Link Magaz ne • December 1997

Schools set to grow to cope with rising numbers

CYCLE REPAIRS WE COME TO YOU

Schools in West and North Swindon are to expand to provide places for the growing number of children arriving in the town, and children reaching secondary school age in West Swindon.

Swindon Council's education committee considered a report on 20 November explaining where money has to be spent to provide extra classroom space. At primary school level, more temporary buildings costing up to £180,000 have tobe installed at Shaw's Brook Field School and at Haydonleigh School, until new schools open at Roughmoor and Abbey Meads in September 1999.

At secondary level, the council is proposing to create a further 247 places at Greendown Community School in Grange Park at a cost of £800,000 spread over two financial years. The number on roll will rise from 1,093 to 1,350 students.

Governors at Greendown have been in negotiation with Swindon Council for the last fifteen months with a view to creating a 'lifelong learning centre,' which would expand the school's already close

links with Swindon College and New College, and enhance its well established community provision.

Chair of governors Andrew Basson said the governing body would be seeking business sponsorship for the project. "Greendown sees education as a lifelong activity and we are well placed to promote this. We have a close relationship with partner primary

schools and with the colleges. We want to add value to the Swindon Council funding by providing facilities available to the wider community."

In December the Education Committee's recommendations will be considered by the council's Policy and Resources Committee alongside capital spending proposal for all departments.

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Greendown chair of governors Andrew Basson

3

Sheila Mitchell would like to wish all her customers a Happy Christmas and a successful New Year Swindon 873062

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Why not come and see us?

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A GCSE student from Peatmoor has been using The Link for a major geography project.

Sarah Dyer from Tower Road, Peatmoor has spent the last five months finding answers to the question, 'why is there a lack of shops in the Sparcells area?' It's a question that most residents have been asking for over ten years, since the first people moved to the area.

However Sarah's study was started at a good time. After many attempts over the last five years, Swindon Council signed a deal in the summer with a development company to build the centre. She was able to study detailed plans Sarah Dyer, researching her project through The Link

and also carry out a survey of residents who visited a public consultation display at Sparcells village hall in July.

In October Sarah spent several hours looking through back copies of The Link covering the last 18 years and trawled up a surprising number of articles covering the arrival of the first residents in October 1987, the first village centre public exhibition in 1990 and the slow progress ever since.

By coincidence Sarah recently met Elaine Munday, the first resident of Sparcells, in a waiting room at PMH. Elaine, who now lives in Didcot, was able to tell Sarah about the early days in the area with its lack of local shops, lack of safe footpaths and the distance to the nearest primary school.

Many present residents will agree that little has changed. But the builders are now on site and the Roughmoor Village Centre which includes shops, a pub and housing will open in about eight months time.

Sarah, who attends St Joseph's Roman Catholic School, submitted her 4,000 word project in November. A quarter of her geography GCSE rests on how well she has carried out her study.

• Builders block footpath for Roughmoor residents - page 10.

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CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISING Toothill Community Centre Bazaar Saturday 6 December, 2pm - 4pm Admission 20p Toothill School Christmas Fayre Friday 12 December, 320pm - 420pm Stalls and Santa's grotto

Christmas Party for 0 to 1 O Toothill Community Centre 19 December, 7pm - 9pm Magician, refreshments, Father Christmas Tickets £1 each from the community centre

Cash to get Scouts moving The 1st Toothill Scouts launched an appeal in November to acquire their own mini-bus with a donation of £200 from the Readers Digest staff charity.

Fundraising coordinator Mandy Fisher said groups from the 40 strong scout troupe go caving, canoeing, climbing, orienteering and camping expeditions on most weekends during better weather, as far afield as the Cheddar Gorge and West Wales. "We hire mini-

buses a lot and need our own transport to keep costs down. Our target is to lease or buy a busby next summer's annual camp."

Sponsors willing to assist the group are asked to contact Mandy Fisher on 618449 with offers of help.

Joy Simkins of Readers Digest wit hfundraising coordinator Mandy Fisher and members of 1st Toothill Scouts at Upper Shaw Farm centre,from left to right, back row, Grant Hutchins, Andrew Spibey, acting senior patrol leader Peter Cox, Andrew Harvey, Daniel Pratt, Lewis England; front, Bobby Haines, Daniel David, Chris Smith

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West-lye Greetings!

Come and see Santa in his grotto!

There's lots going on over the festive season to let you, your family and friends enjoy shopping in the safe and relaxed atmosphere of the centre. Santa will be in his grotto every weekday from ll.00am to 7.00pm and on Saturdays from l0.00am to 6.00pm up until Christmas.

Bring the children to enjoy all the fun of the FUNFAIR every Saturday from 29th November and on Christmas Eve. There are so many good shops all on one level, places to eat, low priced petrol and FREE & EASY PARKING.

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WESTLEA

Asda expansion could lead to increased pollution

5

Dreaming of a midsummer's night in the depths of winter

Residents in Ravenglass Road, Westlea are up in arms against the Children at Westlea School have redevelopment of the Asda fuel station at the West Swindon shop- been rehearsing for William ping centre.

Shakespeare's magical muse, A Midsummer Nights Dream, in full Plans could go before Swindon means a lowering of a especially costume at Greendown School on Councils development and con- built sound absorbing wall next to 18 December. trol committee on 8 December pro- the store delivery yard, another Under the direction of Greenposing to resite the existing petrol planning requirement from an eardown primary liaison teacher Tim pumps and payment kiosks so that lier redevelopment.

Noble, 32 children have been learna car wash can be included.

"The petrol station site is already ing their lines and rehearsing eaoverdeveloped. The inclusion of a gerly since early September. car wash will increase traffic on The year 6 children will be visitCorton Crescent and presents ing Dauphines theatrical costumgreater dangers to Westlea resiiers in Bristol to choose the finery dents as they have to cross it to the in which they will be performing. shopping centre.

The inconvenience will be im- Sophie Popjoy, right, and Gemma mense. Asda could become the Harris pictured with their winning neighbour from hell if this plan poster design of Puck as a punk progoes through." moting the Westlea players

Baz Hanrahan in front of the well established and effective sound barrier which could disappear if Asda 's plan goes through Householders, who live less than 100 feet away across Corton Crescent, fear an increase in pollution from noise, light and petrol fumes if the scheme gets the go-ahead.

They are worried that conditions to protect residents in previous planning approvals wilibe ignored by the development committee.

Baz Hanrahan moved into his house 17 years ago when hay was being bailed on the site where the shopping centre was built. He believes that the West Swindon Centre is being redeveloped as a regional centre to compete with out of town stores and questioned whether another car wash is needed.

"The internal expansion is well underway and will attract shoppers in cars from much further afield. There will be a pizzeria, cooked meat area and bakery and we are worried about the smells blown from the back of the store over the residential area.

'Our main concern is the proposal to increase the petrol filling station site from 210 square metres to around 500. There are four car washes within a mile radius; is there a need for another?

"Swindon Council should be reminded that one of the original conditions for agreeing plans for the petrol station was good environmental protection for residents.

The new proposal means removal of the high, landscaped mound which has been an effective sound barrier since the facility was first built about ten years ago. It also

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School has new goals to aim for

GK

Windmill Hill Schools sharp shooting footballers will be doing all they can to hit new targets.

Thanks to a donation from the Readers Digest staff charity, the school has been able to buy a new set of Coca Cola goal posts which are now being used in the West Swindon primary schools league.

Of course they will also be trying to stop the opposition put the ball in their net.

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Right: Margaret Aisbett from Readers Digest presents Windmill Hill players with a cheque for £250

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Lively annual meeting Fifty residents living in Freshbrook and Grange Park turned up for the annual meeting of the resident association covering the area - the Freshbrook Village Group - the best turnout for many years.

Headteachers, health service managers, officers from housing and education, police and councillors were also present to hear of concerns about the area.

A third of those present were teenagers. The meeting was marked by tension between adults complaining about vandalism and youngsters defending themselves against unintended but implied accusations.

Appeals were made to Swindon Borough Council to direct more youth work resources to the area so that the community centre youth club can open every evening.

Grange Park residents at Sleaford Close reported two nights of car break ins and tyre slashing in October. The police undertook to work more closely with the local Neighbourhood Watch groups.

PVC chair Bruce Elder said he was pleased to see people from Grange Park at the meeting as the community centre serves them as well. "I was also very encouraged by the youth involvement.

"This year we want to raise the profile of the community centre and get more people using it. We also plan more meetings with representatives of services to account for themselves at a community level."

Go and wash The West Swindon Family Project has installed a washing machine and dryer which are available at low cost.

To use them, call in at the project, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook or telephone 871303.

Improvements arriving on Stagecoach number 8 soon Gloria Brookes of Crawford Close is becoming more and more angry about the poor performance of the Stagecoach bus company.

Despite public campaigns earlier in the year and pressure to get services improved, the Number 8 from Freshbrook to the Town Centre is not one of them as far as she is concerned.

"Since starting work at the Designer Village in May, there hasn't been a day when a bus has arrived on time," says Gloria. "When one does, it is always packed tight with passengers and buggies which is really uncomfortable, and also unsafe at the speed they go at.

"I leave the house an hour early

to wait for a bus to do the 15 minute journey and be at work on time.

Stagecoach Swindon & District managing director Martin Sutton apologised if passengers had been inconvenienced. He acknowledged there had been time keeping problems arising from the closure of Church Place and also a shortage of drivers. However there will be improvements.

"In July we reduced the service to 4 buses an hour," he said. "But from 1 December we will be returning to 6 buses an hour, one every ten minutes. But I would ask passengers to accept delays caused by the heavier traffic in the run up to Christmas."

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West Swindon's newest hairdressing salon has quickly established a reputation for service and high quality hair care.

Opened in mid-June, the salon at Freshbrook Village Centre has been completely refurbished into a bright, modern environment which has attracted much positive customer comment.

Salon proprietor Carol Dhillon trained in Swindon before moving to London where she gained experience in some of the top salons, including Vidal Sassoon.

With some 25 years experience in all types of hairdressing Carol is continually looking for improvement and sees the opening of Good Company as the opportunity for offering a high standard of hair care and good value-for-money service.

Assisting her, the salon has five fully qualified stylists with experience in a wide range of hair types and styles.

Good Company uses the comprehensive range of hair care products from top names Kerestase and LOreal, which are also available for retail sale.

As a result of the refurbishment, Good Company was recently awarded a Five Star Rating from the Good Salon Hairdressing Guide, an accolade given to only two other salons in Swindon. Carol is delighted by this recognition, so soon after establishing the business.

'The guide is very selective. To achieve an entry, we had to meet an incredibly high standard of hairdressing and service within the environment of the salon.

Considering that we only opened in June, we are all extremely proud to be awarded this accreditation.'

Carol Dhillon of Good Company

Good Company's reputation has spread rapidly through the local area. And being so close to Windmill Hill Business Park and the Blagrove Estate, many new clients living further afield have come from the businesses closeby who are able to walk to the salon, or use the free parking at the village centre.

Carol believes Good Company is very much a community based salon. "Our aim is to offer a high standard of hair care to all - from children to older people. Complimentary drinks are part of our service.

And we must be the only salon offering an OAP rate on three days of the week.

"We're also one of the few salons open six days a week, with late openings on Thursday and Friday."

Having completed the refurbishment, the staff at Good Company are looking forward to building their reputation to a much wider clientele across Swindon.

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Library gives school more space

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Swindon Mayor Maurice Fanning was on hand to open a new library extension at Greenmeadow School on 12 November.

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The new facilities costing 00,000 has been created by extending the front door and foyer area. The money was raised by parents over the last few years, and they are now appealing for help to install shelving which will cost a further £5,000.

The school library had been located in a small, poorly lit room which is also used for music tuition. Acting headteacher Paul Barnett said children now have a bright, airy space to enjoy books.

Although we are awaiting shelves and furnishing, the extra space is

proving very useful for classes reading, or listening to books being read. We have also placed a computer with CD Rom in the new room for use by the children.'

Although the parent teacher association will continue to raise money, he said the school urgently needs support from business to get the library into full use as soon as possible. To offer help, call 521141.

Christmas Bazaar, Greenmeadow School: Friday 5 December, 3pm.

Stalls, attractions, Father Christmas grotto.

Paul Barnett with infants Jessica Dean and Ryan Richards, with juniors from left, Carly Steward, Ryan Richards, Nasir Nawaz, Jaimie Byrne, Matthew Curd

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Rolling for Children In Need One hundred and twenty members of the Haydon Wick Youth Club raised £300 at a roller disco in the Haydon Centre on Sunday 16 November. And on 21 November Haydon Centre deputy manager Ian Baker and friends raised cash by riding an exercise bike from John O'Groats to Lands End.

Seasonal Concert Haydon Wick Bowls Club presents a Christmas Concert with the Aldbourne Band at the Haydon Centre on Friday 12 December, 730pm.

Tickets: £3.50 from the Haydon Centre. Concession prices available A concert for all the family which will suit all musical tastes.

Christmas Events at Haydon Centre Friday 19 December Haydon Wick Youth Club Christmas roller disco.

Saturday 20 December The late Christmas shopping Afternoon Childrens Party for under lOs sponsored by Haydon Wick Community Association, run in conjunction with centre staff and youth club. Tickets: 50p to the children from parish of Haydon Wick. £1 to non- residents.

Sunday 21 December Haydon Wick Youth Club and members of the Parish Council will be making up and delivering 270 Christmas hampers to 400 older residents living in Haydon Wick parish.

Wednesday 31 December

New Year's Eve Family Party run

by Haydon Wick Youth Club.

Disco, buffet,childrens playroom.

Money raised will go towards Christmas 1998 hampers. Family tickets: £12. Extra adults £6, children £4.

Haydon Centre Christmas hours 23 December lOam-6pm 24 to 26 December Closed 27 December 11am -4pm 31 December Closed, except to New Year's Eve party ticket holders 1 January Closed 2 January As normal

ABBEY MEADS Community Carols - Saturday 20 December, 6.30pm at Abbey Meads village green, Elstree Way. Organised by Abbey Meads Community Association in conjunction with the Church of Christ the Servant and accompanied by the Salvation Army band. Followed by refreshments.

9

Link advertiser comes up with new pub name Abbey Meads based landscape gardener, MrRotavator, Alan Cotterell is responsible for naming Swindon's newest pub, serving the northern development area.

Short wait in temporary surgery

Inspired by the pious monks who occupied Blunsdon Abbey at Although the Abbey Meads doctor's surgery took a long time to the top of the hill, Alan suggested arrive because of siting and planning problems, patients in the the pub on Elstree Way be called northern development will not have long to wait before a permanent The Friary. facility is built.

The new pub costing ÂŁ2.2 million is part of the Big Steak Pub Planning permission has been surgeries are held on: chain and brings a unique feature 430pm - 6pm given to Dr John and partners to Monday to Swindon. Apart from the com845am - 1015am construct a health centre at Abbey Tuesday fortable adult only area for drinkMeads village centre. Tenders are Wednesday 930am - 11am ing, the family restaurant is 8.30am - 10pm. now being considered, building Thursday Appointments can be made dur- Alan and Jan Cotterell, right, and will start in the new year with a ing these times on 702068. At all their triplets Alison, Lily and Imogen view to opening in early 1999.

The temporary surgery opened other times, call the Carfax Street are pictured with the landlords of the at the end of September and four surgery on 692062.

Friary Nigel and Debbie Strong A sign to identify Abbey Meads surgery. Front left, Practice manager Pam Godson and partner Dr Julian Hawkins. Rear, senior practice nurse Sue Durham and receptionist Pam Moran

complimented by the Wacky Warehouse,'a huge playbarn filled with colouful slides, chutes, ropes and ball pools.

Gladiator Fox performed the official opening ceremony on 15 November and led children round the playbam, showing them how to let off steam safely.

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Hi-tech factory on the skyline upsets residents Residents of the new St Andrews Ridge housing development are worried about the size of the Motorola factory, growing daily on top of Blunsdon Ridge, next to the Cricklade Road.

Although several hundred yards away, the skeleton of the futuristic structure dominates the skyline and residents are concerned that the view will reduce house values.

Lisa Pickburn from Standon Way said that many people bought houses knowing that the Motorola factory would be built. "We really did not expect such a huge building. We're all worried about noise from the air conditioning units on the roof, the 24 hour lorry traffic using the same access route to the houses and the quality of the landscaping. We're also concerned about the effect on houses prices."

Neighbour Tony Edgington is not impressed by the architecture.

"The building stands out like a sore thumb. We understood it would be set into the ground; it looks awful."

However Ian Dobie of the Abbey Meads community' association said that Motorola will be planting 100 four metre trees to provide substantial landscaping before the building opens and will look closely at other concerns.

Motorola from a bedroom window

..

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10

Children explore new art ideas Youngsters at Salt Way School explored new techniques during a week of art during November.

Artist in education Ray Ward from Marlborough spent a day in each junior class helping children develop ideas and trying different forms of artistic expression. As a result children produced large portraits, layered masks from torn paper and designed and painted a giant jigsaw.

Project coordinator teacher Tony Giannotti said, "the children benefited enormously from their work with Ray. The week was inspirational."

Juniors at Salt Way School display their artwork. Rear, from left, Dean Morgan, Nathan Cleary, Joanna Watson, Francis Egerton, Amy Spencer, Kirsty Lester. Middle, Kieren Smith, Tyrone Small, Frankie Kelser, Andrew Vickerson, Sean Zedlewski.

Front, Sarah Jenning, Connor Hoare, Jordan King

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New village centre dangers Building works for the much needed Roughmoor Village Centre started in early November, though not without a few problems for residents living closeby who have to walk to Brook Field School.

Tower Road resident Roger Budd called The Link to complain that pedestrian health and safety II was being threatened. "The footpath beside Dr Kandiah's surgery is the only safe route to the shops at Shaw and Brook Field School.

The builders do not seem to have been told people have been living in Tower Road for over two years.

"It also seems that Swindon Council has not made safe provision for pedestrians in its planning agreement."

Sally Phillips confirmed that there is no safe foot way from the houses north of the village centre site. As a childminder she was worried that her livelihood was

being threatened and complained to the developers and Swindon Council. "1 have been assured that the footpath should stay open until it has to be rebuilt, or if machinery is working nearby and services have to be laid."

David Kottler, consultant engineer managing the site, said the developers were not aware of pedestrian needs before building works started. "The footpath is now on private land, but we want to be helpful. Safety must be paramount, but both the shop and pub sites have been fenced. Where possible the route will be kept open and a notice will be put up when we have to close it."

Tower Road residents making their tony through a new landscape at Roughmoor Village Centre, Roger Budd and Sally Phillips and from left, Shone Rogers, Alison Budd, Laura Cowan, Matthew and Rebecca Phillips

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Mansfield Begbie Associates would like to thank all their clients for their support during 1997 c and wish all Link readers a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

START 1998 WITH A NEW MORTGAGE Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you

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Credit broker tees of up to 1% on the advance maybe charged at completion depending on the iype of product and credit period. Rate applied is 6,45% (68% APR) for one year, APR is variable Rates may vary A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subject to status Subject to our current lending criteria. A 2% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 8.45% Those applicants benefiting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within toot yearn from the date of completion will be charged an additional en months Interest This charge will be reimbursed if a now mortgage is then taken out with the Society Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years. both non-smeokore, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year teen (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 January 1998 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tae of C244,56. Monthly endowment premium of £7486 Total amount payable E146.11 1 Calculated to include valuation fee £t 55 and arrangement tee of E100 This calculation Is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the ferns of the loan Maximum loan £t 50.000. The 645% rate applies to loans up to and including 95% of the purchase price or ualuatloe, whichever is the lower, The discounted rate is applicable for one year, after which the then current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will requite additional socerity, This Is usually in the fore of a Risk Charge

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

12

The Link Magazine • December 1997

ROTTEN WOOD? PEELING PAINT

LETTER F OM WESTMINSV E Is) 1\

II)

Winning the lottery for Swindon

DRIPPING GUTTERS?

Swindon South MP Julia Drown bites her nails waiting for her numbers to come up

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More than seven months into the job and it is still full of new experiences. It was exciting to be there on the red carpet to welcome the Queen to Swindon, brought here by the 'Borough of Swindon' train.

I continue to be surprised by how much of Westminster works on the Bingo principle. Questions to ministers work like this: MPs submit their initial questions two weeks in advance. The questions then get pulled from a hat. Many are disappointed. If picked you can ask a supplementary question on the day and others can try and get in on the same subject.

My Bingo luck had not been overly successful until recently when I was picked out for number 20 on a Tuesday (health questions) and number 15 on Thursday (employment and education). Often only 15 questions get asked, so it really was touch and go as to whether I would get my chance.

Health questions end at 330pm and I wanted to raise the problem of dentistry in Swindon. At 315pm we were on question 17; it

unemployed and lone parents back into work was called about 10 minutes from the end. This was a much calmer experience.

I'm now trying my luck at getting a half-hour debate on the proposed storage of meat and bone meal at Wroughton. Again this works on the lottery principle. Apart from one debate a week, which the speaker chooses, these private member debates are also picked out of a hat. I do wonder whether there might be better ways of deciding what the house should discuss.

I would like to send everyone my best wishes for the Season and for the New Year. I hope it is a peaceful and prosperous one for us all.

• Julia Drown MP can be contacted at 39 Victoria Road, Swindon.

Tel: 615444.

Christmas greetings Swindon North MP Michael Wills wishes all readers of The Link a Happy Christmas and a rewarding and successful New Year.

He can be contacted at the Pinehurst People's Centre, Olive Grove, Swindon. Tel: 481016.

was looking unlikely.

The minutes ticked on. At 329pm Madam Speaker called for number 19. There was silence. So with one minute to go she called my name and with a smile I stood up, thanked her and asked the Health Minister to meet me to discuss the problems in Swindon (& he agreed!). Nail biting stuff.

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AT YOUR LIBRARY

13

Fit in mind and body West Swindon library celebrated National Libraries Week in style this year, writes Vikki Moore.

The event only takes place every four years so Swindon Borough libraries wanted to make the most of it. The theme followed was health. It may sound a little dull, but the health fair at West Swindon library was anything but.

Many customers were surprised to find the library humming with activity on Tuesday 4 November when 15 different groups came to the library to share their knowledge and skills. They represented only a small range of the conven-

tional and complimentary health options available today.

We had an aromatherapist and a herbalist talking about and demonstrating their therapies. A representative from the Association of Reflexologists demonstrated the benefits of bringing health and well-being through manipulation of the feet.

Alongside the alternative health groups were representatives offering help to those with dyslexia, for those caring for someone with an

illness at home and for those with blind relatives. In addition there were voluntary groups showing what they do and seeking new volunteers willing to help those in need.

The Lifestyle Unit put on demonstrations of different keep fit classes in the Link Centre foyer.

For the older person, there was 50 plus keep-fit; gentle aerobic exercise to keep active and supple. For the 10 to 16 year-olds there was the Reebok Kids City Jam, an ener-

getic and lively workout based on street dance. This group drew a great deal of interest with their professional performance and many people expressed their admiration for the commitment and skill that was shown.

On behalf of the West Swindon staff and the National Libraries Week team, I would like to thank the groups who took part and the Lifestyle Unit for their help in making the day a success.

More such days are planned.

THE RIDGEWAY SCHOOL Inverary Road, Wroughton Swindon SN4 9DJ

A range of accommodation for private hire at competitive prices Available for conferences, meetings, wedding receptions, dances/discos, private parties, jumble sales, small clubs, etc.

Whatever your needs, for details of prices etc, please contact: The Lettings Manager Tel: 01793 812824 • Fax: 01793 815065

A perfect Christmas Gift Swindon Album in Old Photographs by the Swindon Society

The Burmah Castro! Staff Charity donated £200 for a reading stand for spinal injury patients in the PMH accident unit during National Libraries Week. Pictured are charity chairman Chris Trafford, rear left, handing over a cheque to hospital librarian Robin Grffiths, with from left, June Hosking of Burmah Cast rol,group librarian Mary Dawes and Vicki Moore of West Swindon Library

d

S AVI UP TO

New books this month:

This new collection which contains 450 photographs, with captions and anecdotes, shows Swindon as it used to be, together with its people at work and at play.

Evocative images to bring back memories to old Swindonians and to stimulate interest for newcomers to learn more about the town.

Published by Sutton Publishing Ltd. In main bookshops at £12.99

Kate Alexander Love and duty.

Marriage to the handsome Piers is everything Ella had ever hoped for. But she soon realises there is a thin line between love and duty.

Carey Cleaver The wishing tree. A charming and fast-paced novel of Irish life set in the 1950s.

Jonathan Kellerman Survival of the fittest. Investigating the ritual murder of a retarded child, Alex Delaware realises that another investigator is following his tracks.

Dean Koontz Fear nothing. About the town of Moonlight Bay which has more secrets than Twin Peaks.

Alan Sillitoe Alligator playground.

Nine short stories about relationships, by the poet laureate of the working class novel.

Emma Stirling A dangerous gift.

Romantic suspense story set in a remote part of Central Africa.

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RECREATION

14

Leisure for Life this Christmas

Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental

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Fast tanning canopies with or without facial boosters • Doubles also available Free installation and local delivery -

Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 641052) —

WINTIRWININD 'SEW-VP' SFCIAES

Ice skating In addition to our Christmas ice show, Dick Whittington, Link Centre has four ice specials over the Christmas period, giving a chance for all age groups to join in the festivities.

Cool Kids Club Christmas party: 13 December, 10am to 12 noon Christmas disco skate: 13 December, 830pm to 1030pm Christmas family disco: 22 December, 2pm to 5pm

Juniors: Walk on rate, all weekend. £6 per court.

Adults: 9.30am to 5.30pm - £10.0 5.30pm to 10.30pm - £8.80

Bring this advert for FREE racket hire il Delta Tennis Centre Welton Road Westlea Swindon Tel: (0 1793) 445555

SwinDon DOflDUG COUnCIL

Link Centre skaters Andrew Seabrook and Marsha Poloushenko have been keeping warm during practice sessions thanks to sweatshirts supplied by Swindon company JMM Embroidery.

Proprietor Jan Messenger from Freshbrook, above with Andrew and Marsha, sponsored the skaters after hearing of their support for Dentaid, which helps children born with cleft palate in the Ukraine.

The Dentaid logo is embroidered on the front of the sweatshirts.

Collections for the charity will take place after the Link Centre Christmas ice shows in December.

Christmas Crackers!

A 3amily 9ce Show

D cs j

SPe' tIar

DEAN

11110S

Th urS 4th Dec 97

18th 21st Dec '97 Matinee and Evening Performances -

730pmMictj&t

LINK

CENTRE North Star Avenue Swindon SN2 IEP

Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SNS 7DL

Tel: (01 793) 445401

Tel: (0 1793) 445566

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Swinton BOROUGH COUflCIL TICK E T S

0 N

S A L E

Classic Christmas skate: 30 December, 8.15pm to 1030pm Look out for further details and leaflet giving prices for these sessions Swimming Both Link Centre and Oasis Leisure Centre pools will be undergoing important maintenance work before and after Christmas. We assure all our customers that the work carried out will provide a safe and more efficient facility upon completion.

The Oasis Lagoon pool will be closed from 15 to 19 December, and the Link pool will be closed from 5 January until the end of February.

Our 'Swim Swindon' leaflet is available giving a timetable of Swindon Borough Council pools and we are also making provision for customers booked on swim courses.

Line dancing Oasis Leisure Centre is holding a special Christmas line dancing event on 4 December featuring the Dean Bros.

Tickets can be obtained from Oasis box office, tel: 445401. Don't forget that the Oasis also runs line dancing courses for beginners on Monday evenings why not put your name down for the next course, bookings are being taken now.

Tennis for all Delta Tennis Centre have a seasonal offer on for all age groups and abilities at weekends. Use the advertisement on the left and we'll give you free racket hire.

The LTA Winter Series Tournament starts at the end of January.

Anyone wishing to participate should return entry forms by 19 January. Forms are available from Delta reception.

-

Christmas closures Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre Closed 24, 25 & 26 December Open as normal 27 December Open 730am 5pm 28 & 29 December Open as normal 30 December Open 730am 5pm 31 December Closed 1 January Oasis Leisure Centre Closed 24, 25 & 26 December Open lOam -6pm 27, 28, 29,30 & 31 December Closed 1 January For further details on these and any other activities, please contact the individual Centres on the following numbers: Link Centre 445566 Oasis Leisure Centre 445401 Delta Tennis Centre 445555 -

-

-

N 0 W

-

-

15

RECREATION

Ridgeway cross country runaways For the third year running The Ridgeway School have a team in the National Finals of the TSB School's Cross-Country Cup which take place on 6 December.

Four teams from the school were entered into the ten counties south west regional finals on 11 November on a very muddy course at Millfield School. The intermediate girls missed a national slot by one place, but the intermediate boys came in second and will be battling against other schools from

across England this month.

Ridgeways cross country runners dominated the Swindon schools cross country championships at Hreod Parkway School on 22 November, winning seven out of eight races for boys and girls.

The teams go on to the Wiltshire championships on 29 November.

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DIAMOND AEROBIC CLASSES The Willows Hall Freshbrook School Worsley Road Freshbrook Friday. 730pm - 830pm 'O per session Small, peisonalsed class Ideal tot beginners RSA qualified instructor

For more details contact Mandy Jenkins 01793 871493

Ridgeway intermediate runners, looking for all England success, front from left, Kevin Boakes, Michael Elmes, Christopher Pokora, Nick Cairns. Rear, Philip Fisher, Joe Hanlon, David Williams

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16

RECREATION

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county team Fast reacting fourteen year old Kelly Hillier-Bowden, right, has been selected to join the Wiltshire Schools under 14s hockey squad as a goal keeper.

Greendown School student Kelly, from Worlidge Drive, Shaw' already plays way above her age group and keeps goal for the Swindon Ladies team.

COMPETITION Skater hockey is the fastest growing sport across the land, and thanks to The Sports Factory at the West Swindon Centre, here's a chance to win an early Christmas present.

Sports Factory are offering £20 worth of street hockey accessories including a Stick, ball or puck to the first Correct entry drawn out the hat on 19 December.

Write down your answer to the question, whatisthefastestgrowing sport in the country, with your name and address, and drop your entry into Sports Factory, West Swindon Centre.

Fancy some tennis A pre-Christmas fancy dress tennis tournament takes place at the Delta Tennis Centre on Saturday 6 December, 630pm to 830pm.

Last minute entries will be welcomed, but you must be ready to play in non-standard tennis wear.

All proceeds from entry fees and sponsorship will be donated to Age Concern Swindon.

For details, call Christine Steed on 01249 - 890319.

7/herry e4r t , "Stw 4s tt

itr t45tLt4ers Come to the Sports Factory at the West Swindon Centre for a huge range,( of brand names and gift ideas for the family, at factory prices.

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SPORTS FACTORY West Swindon Centre • Tel: (0 I 793) 874902

The Link Magazine. December 1997

17

Where elegance needn't cost the earth this Christmas Ladlesfashlons, shoes and accessories juvals, 26 Wood Street, old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 513196 With but a few weeks to go before Christmas, a visit to Old Town should not be missed.

It's a compact area with a varied range of shops, most of which are charmingly decorated in a festive style.

Zwor cti€Jeë.€

They are also quite distinct, ideal when you are searching for that something which marks out your individuality, and your desire to put thought into Christmas shopping.

Wiltshire's largest dress agency with the great reputation Evening wear/ballgowns/day/ casual/business wear Bridal gowns, veils, shoes etc

Juvals in Wood Street carries a range of elegant ladies wear, shoes and accessories which will get you thinking about how you look, and how you can enhance somebody special.

VISIT SOON Open: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 1000am 400pm

Shoes are the mainstay of well known Old Town trader Blaylocks, situated on the corner of Bath Road and Devizes Road.

They stock all the best brands and the personal service is second to none. With years of experience, they know what they are talking about when fitting shoes.

Buy or Sell at

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Fully Licensed

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Books are always a perfect fall back for Christmas. Any well planned shopping trip can be swept off course at Victoria Books. With the huge choice on their shelves, it would be easy to get lost there.

With friends and relations coming round, or to stay, you might be thinking of new furnishings.

Spillers, 'who have over 150 years of experience, will provide invaluable advice to you when choosing home coordinates and bedrooms.

Be prepared to be surprised at Savernake Antiques in the Victoria Centre. It's impossible to predict what you will find there.

Connie Croker runs Wear it Well in North Street with great enthusiasm. After a recent expansion its Wiltshire's largest as new clothing agency and there are always interesting bargains to be had.

And Connie by another name is ready to replenish you. Connie's Chinese restaurant in Devizes Road will delight your taste buds with a variety of regional styles at very reasonable prices.

Put Old Town on your Christmas shopping list today.

Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves An old fashioned bookshop for customers who like things the way they used to be with a standard of service for today BOOK TOKENS MAKE PERFECT GIFTS

Victoria Bookshop, 30 Wood Si, Old Town, Swindon. Tel: (01793) 527364 -)

BLAYLOCKS 9(ntiques

SLIPPERS Dealers in antiques, memorabilia, collectables & much, much more Open 7 days per week Victoria Centre, 138- 139 Victoria Rd, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 536668 HOUSE CLEARANCE OR SINGLE ITEMS PURCHASED

THE IDEAL GIFT Extensive range for all the family

Blaylocks Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

ff R THAN YOU THINK ...

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132 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 522329/541146 The family business that really cares

18 The Link Magazine • December 1997 1.

41

—r...

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rDreeO1JQT th& Occaim/

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Handmade gowns and cocktail wear For sale or hire

Professionally made MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS

To discuss your requirements, call Hilary on

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Are the new hospital plans cut too close to the bone?

The debate about Swindon's proposed new hospital reaches a crescendo in December when Swindon Councils planning committee meets to consider an application to build a replacement for PMH. On one side, lobbying hard for

an early decision, are supporters of the Commonhead site on Swindon's east side.

Taking a different view are those who believe there are many questions being left unanswered by hospital planners and are calling for more public consultation.

Link reader David Packham from Lydiard Millicent, a Liberal Democrat councillor on North Wilts District Council, considers whether the proposed hospital is going to be big enough.

Princess Margaret Hospital was My motion to North Wilts Disbuilt in the 1950s and it is now trict Council calls for more consulinadequate to meet today's needs. tation on the site and a fuller exThe population it serves has planation to the public of what the grown way beyond anyone's ex- implications are for healthcare pectations when it was planned services if the plans go ahead. and waiting lists are long.

Swindon will have 20,000 (plus) The catchment area is extensive, new dwellings and the rest of the taking in parts of Gloucestershire, catchment area will have (roughly) Berkshire, Oxfordshire, most of a further 20,000 houses by the year Wiltshire and all of Swindon, only 2011. This will meet the County half of the patients come from the Structure Plan demand for 70,000 Borough. The total population of new dwellings in Wiltshire alone. the catchment is more than 275,000 So the population served by the and there are 600 beds. new hospital could be 375,000 peoPrivate funding (FF1) requirements have put pressure on planners to push through their preferred site for the new hospital at Commonhead. Until the last few weeks there has been little consultation. But now we are told that if the plan does not go ahead Swindon may lose the chance of a new hospital.

ple nine years after it opens. At this rate there will be 40% more people served by 10% fewer beds.

One explanation I was offered for this was 'but the new population growth will be predominantly younger incomers.'

The first people moved into West Swindon over 21 years ago. Many are still there, having put down Although the Commonhead site roots and brought up families. is a little larger than the overRight now, younger incomers are crowded PMH site it can only ac- moving into Abbey Meads and the commodate 540 beds, 10% fewer. northern expansion areas.

Planners say that greater emphaI am not sure where the next sis on primary care, more minor surgery to be done at CF surgeries decade's incomers will be located, etc., will lead to reduction in the but I do know for sure that we are, average stay in hospital from the all of us, getting older. present 6.5 days to 5.3 days, so that Swindon North MP Michael a smaller hospital will be able to Wills is reported as saying, 'we cope. must face up to the reality,' and Of course we should not waste argues that the 'political realities' resources, but when the plans ap- mean we must hurry and decide pear to be so badly flawed we re- on the Commonhead site. ally should be saying 'hang on, I believe that most people relilets check that we are getting this ant on the delivery of good, sensiright'. It will be no comfort to any tive and caring health services do of us to find that in 10 to 15 years not give a fig for the 'politics' of time we have another 'PMH situa- this issue. They care about having tion' on our hands. a new hospital in Swindon capable The planners tell me they used of meeting the needs of the fast someone from the London School expanding population. of Economics to produce a compuMore consultation is clearly ter model to calculate the size of needed. My Swindon Borough the new hospital. However com- Council Liberal Democrat colputers can only work from the in- league Mike Evemy is spot on formation fed into them. We have when he says that, 'scaring people to ask, did they use the correct into accepting Commonhead is not data on population growth? particularly helpful.

The Link Magazine. December 1997

MONEY MATTERS

Sarah Finch-Crisp, Keeper of Lydiard House, sums up months of planning to make the Queen's visit to Swindon a success.

Several months ago I drew a line across 7 November in my diary, something I normally do to indicate holidays; rather inappropriate in the circumstances.

The Queen's visit had not yet been announced in the press and her Majesty's luncheon at Lydiard Park in November seemed a distant though challenging prospect.

Details emerged over the next few weeks. The lunch was to be hosted by the Swindon Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Fifty guests would attend and be introduced to the Queen at a reception in the State Rooms of the house before dining. No extra 'smartening up monies' would be available in line with the Council's wish to show the town as it really is. We took a critical look at Lydiard and were relatively reassured.

As always happens the weeks flashed by. Lydiard Park Management Centre staff began to plan a menu fit for the Queen while museum staff polished and prepared the State Rooms, reblacking the fireplaces, a filthy job not lightly undertaken. The first of many visits by Police Security Officers began, culminating in their intensive search of the building the evening before the royal visit. On that day a plague of bluebottles emerged to feast on sap from a huge ivy which drapes across the archway through which her Majesty was due to walk.

I was advised that nothing could be done, only a downpour would clear the path.

Fortunately the rain fell sufficiently hard on Friday morning and the flies disappeared. Guests arrived and crowds gathered in the sunshine. I waited for the Queen's arrival on the steps of the house alongside Coun Derique Montaut and Management Centre MD, Christine Pilkington. A little nervous, all our preparations were now to be put to the test.

Before long the royal cars swept through the park and moments later the Queen appeared in front of the house. She was accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, her Lady in Waiting, Private Secretary and Equerry.

With introductions complete and curtsies accomplished the royal visit to Lydiard began. . I soon had the opportunity of telling the Queen that Elizabeth I had visited Lydiard Park in 1592, the last monarch to do so. The Queen had asked about the history of the house and commented on the State Rooms, all of which 1

19

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Two wonien in red introduced by the man in black. Sarah Finch-Crisp produces a well rehearsed curtsey for the Queen on the steps of Lydiard House

she saw decked with flowers arranged by Swindon floristry students from Lackham College.

In the Library the Queen signed a special page in our visitors book, afterwards taking time to talk to waiting guests while Swindon Young Musicians played guitars, until- lunch. For museum staff remaining downstairs during the meal it was time to snatch a sandwich while Lydiard's cooks and waitresses took over proceedings.

Catering for fifty people upstairs was no mean featbut, Mike Gough, Lydiard's Centre Manager, and his team managed with aplomb. Staff used to dining rooms on the ground floor negotiated long deserted servant passages and stairs to serve the meal, a chicken and wild mushroom dish followed by the chef's specially created Lydiard Pudding.

The Queen left us at 2.50pm after meeting members of staff in the hall. On behalf of the Council I gave her Majesty a picture of 'Lydiard Through the Trees' by Swindon artist Peter Burton. The Autumn scene mirrored views outside and the Queen looked pleased. She thanked us all, the Lord Lieutenant donned his sword and the party left.

The relief amongst the staff was palpable; two hours planned with near military precision had passed without even a hitch.

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The annual season of fundraising in aid of the BBC Children in Need peaked on 21 November when a record breaking sum was donated.

Swindon's BT headquarters at North Star was turned into Earth Station Pudsey and became the hub for BBC TV output in the South West.

Cheques and cash were handed over and visitors took part in wacky activities, surfed in the Internet cafe and bought Pudsey products.

The Haydon Wick Youth Club, pictured right, handed over ÂŁ354.07, raised at a roller disco in November and a collection on CiN night.

On the left, pictured with the Mayor of Swindon Maurice Fanning and animal loving veteran broadcaster Johnny Morris is Laura Ryan, 5, from Ravenglass Road, Westlea who won a Pudsey Bear in last month's Link competition. The other winner, Gemma Howes from Grange Park was unable to be present.

Child witnesses get Children in Need helping hand Did you see us on the TV on 21 November, asks Lynne Walton, Witness Service coordinator, Swindon Crown Court It is a sad fact that every year a number of children have to come to court as witnesses, whether because they have been victims of crime, or because they have seen something important in a case. Some of these children have suffered terrible trauma already, so it is important for us to try to minimise the ordeal of court as much as possible.

The Children in Need grant from last year's appeal has enabled us to set up a course for

some of our more experienced team members ganisation providing practical and emotional to specialise in supporting these children and help to victims, witnesses, whether adult or child, and their families when they have to their families.

We could also buy special court activity packs come to court. It is manned by teams of speand some equipment, such as a TV/ video and cially trained volunteers.

If you would like more information about electonic games, for the children's use whilst waiting at court. As a result of this, the Swin- becoming a Witness Service volunteer and don service was featured on the TV programme could spare two days per month, I should like on 21 November. to hear from you.

Please ring me on 01793 484040.

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The Link Magazine. December 1997 21

Help needed for next Romania aid trip Swindon based charity Mission Romania would like to thank the vast number of people who contributed items to their annual collection, and also lcoal companies including Burmah and National Power.

The charity held its annual meeting on 15 November where an appeal was made for new people to come forward to help with any aspect of organisation, particularly the collection for next year's trip.

Mission Romania organiser Julian Leggatt said volunteers from Swindon distributed about £100,000 worth of goods in the Tirgu Mures district during a two week trip at the end of August.

"We've been involved in the area for seven years and have gradually been able to spread our help to hospitals, homes for the elderly, orphanages and churches. Last year we set up a toy library and it

was wonderful to see it in action.

This year we helped to start another in a different town."

The charity is now looking for interest in a partner town arrangement with Swindon to create links between businesses. This could attract European Community development funding.

Mission Romania is desperate for more people to be involved in planning and collecting for next year's aid trip. And there may be a chance of travelling to Romania to meet the local people involved in charity work there.

To find out more, call Julian Leggatt on 872987.

Ukraine shoe boxes get swift send off Shoe boxes collected by children at Westlea School and Freshbrook's Windmill Hill School have been delivered to needy orphans in the Ukraine according to appeal organisers from the charity Hope Now.

Only the best will do at Christmas For a wide selection of top grade Christmas trees, come to Stone Lane Garden Centre.

All our trees are bushy and we stock many sizes from 3ft. to 12ft!

Many varieties of tree available to suit individual preferences.

Bigger range of decorations on display this year hA Gift Tokens available - ideal presents for keen gardeners.

Marc Walker-Loveridge of Swift Couriers arranged for Swiiidoii sI,oeboxcs to be transported to the Hope Now collection warehouse. He is pictured with Westlea School headteacher Suzanne Seaton and from left, Edith Glennie, Aiden Glennie, Sukhveer Nahal, Richard Cheney, Roxanne Walker-Loveridge and Tong Chen Two hundred and eighty boxes filled with useful items to surprise a child were collected for Harvest Festival at the end of October and were transported to the Hope Now warehouse in Southampton by Swindon's Swift Couriers. A total of four thousand shoe boxes were collected across Britain and taken to the Ukraine.

On 2 November the Hope Now director Vic Jakopson spoke at Shaw Church about the work of the charity in the Cherkassy region of the Ukraine over the last five years. He described that from small beginnings, support by British people has helped to bring comfort and opportunity to some of the huge number of people in need.

Hope Now has done a great deal of work at the House of Babies in Cherkassy and also an orphanage for under fifteens. There are projects in a prison and schools for deaf children, teaching English language and music. Work has recently started on setting up a home for street children.

• A second big charity ball to raise money for Hope Now at the Chinese Experience restaurant is being planned for next year. The ball last May raised £10,000 for a playground at the House of Babies.

• Shoe boxes were collected at Hreod Parkway and Bradon Forest Schools in aid of Operation Christmas Child to be sent for Bosnia, Armenia and Russia.

Or, view the range of gifts, from houseplants to propagators, gardening books and garden tools.

Christmas presents for your pets! We have lots of tasty gifts for your favourite animal.

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The Link Magazine. December 1997

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'GIANT' CARDS OR MI. "UR AM Why not try something really different. Rent a 6ft. high giant card with a personalised message and let everyone in on the occasion.

Say congratulations in a big way... * Birthdays * Births * Anniversaries * Engagements * Marriages * Retirements * Get Well Soon * Valentines * Welcome Home * Mother's Day & Father's Day * Marriage or Engagement Proposals and more

'Giant' card hire ... £34.95. £5 off to Link readers.

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Make the big occasion huge Here's a great way of sharing good news in a big, colourful public way.

The Giant Card Company, started on 1 November by Joanna McKinlay from Old Town, will plant a six by four foot card with appropriate greeting for a whole day.

She arranges for the card to arrive early in the morning, in the garden, place of work, pub or wherever it will surprise the recipient There are cards for 20 different occasions and they each have a panel to personalise the message.

At present the printed PVC sheet cards are rented for a day at a cost of £34.95, though Link readers qualify for a £5 discount.

Joanna is investigating cheaper materials so that they can be purchased.

Fire station visitor shares ideas Sub-officer Martin Lloyd from Westlea fire station writes: I mentioned in the November Link find shopping malls, high rise that we were to be observed by buildings, motorways, trains - all John Springle from the Technical different types of scenario to train and Research Department of the in. We await Peter's return to Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service Westlea to find what new inforin Port of Spain, pictured below. mation he has to pass on.

It just leaves me to wish everybody a Happy and Safe Christmas.

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Initial reaction to 'Giant' cards has been very positive with private and business bookings being taken.

Swindon council is also very pleased with the idea. Homemade signs mounted on lamp posts and roundabouts are a hazard to drivers and expensive to clear up.

So, splash out on a giant surprise with an out-size greeting. For details call Joanna on 692929.

It is interesting to note that the same equipment and procedures are used in Trinidad as they are in UK, so John lost no time in settling in with station personnel. Plenty of ideas and information changed hands; he will be missed when he returns home in late November.

As usual we braced ourselves for the flood of calls on Guy Fawkes night. To our relief we had little cause for concern on a relatively quiet night, the credit for which must go to you, the public.

The station still responded to some 80 calls last month including a marked increase in road traffic accidents as a result of the cold frosty weather, combined with fog.

Leading Fireman Peter Newman has been seconded to the Fire Service College for November on a road traffic accident instructors course where he will be brought up to scratch in all the latest techniques in casualty care and extrication.

This is just one of the courses we attend at the college in Moreton in the Marsh. All are residential, some as long as 13 weeks, and the facilities are second to none - you can

Quality homes to let are urgently required in the West Swindon area.

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"We have an urgent need for up to 20 properties to let in the West Swindon area" says Sue Gidney, Manager at Leading Agencies in Swindon.

If you have a property you are considering letting, and are looking for a highly professional but personal service from your Managing Agent, please contact Leading Agencies on

01793 431725 They will be more than happy to give free and impartial advice on all aspects of residential letting.

23

Graham McCallion PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIAIJ r

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

Sail off to Treasure Island

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Avast there me hearties! Is the traditional Christmas panto not exciting enough for you? Are you looking for something different to entertain the family this year?

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Well, those landlubbers up in Old Town at the Swindon Arts Centre are offering a unique experience. It's so scary that children under six years shouldn't attend.

Visit Treasure Island for nothing 'The Arts Centre are offering two family tickets for the 7pm show on Saturday 3January.

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Set sail for Treasure Island on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 January with the Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company. There will be plenty of swash and buckle as you join Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver in the search for Captain Flint's long lost bounty.

What was Long John Silver's parrot always saying?

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SPECIAL NOTE Dickens of an Evening Late night shopping on Friday 5 December

(In addition to the family tickets, Waterstone Books are offering two runner up prizes: a hardback and a paperback copy of Treasure Island)

13 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett Tel/fax: 01793 853976 Mobile: 0378 954903

Early plug for short story competition

A £5 entry feee and some creative time could win you £1,000 in a Swindon short story writing competition.

The Burmah Castrol staff charity Burmah Castrol House to meet the The Matinee Group present a feast of entertainment at the Arts Centre group in conjunction with Reader's judges and receive their prizes.

The stories can be on anytheme, Digest have launched their 1998 at 2pm on 1, 2 and 3 December.

The afternoon of music, drama competition which closes on 31 but must be between 1,500 and and comedy will be a perfect pre- March. The first prize is1,000with 1,800 words, and double line space Christmas outing for older people second and third receiving £300 typed on single sided A4 paper.

The judges, local personalities, and those who prefer to get home and £200 respectively. Each winner during daylight hours. will also be presented with a writers and the sponsors, will look Tickets cost £3 from the Arts Reader's Digest Universal for creativity and originality in the Centre, Devizes Road, Old Town. Dictionary. The winners and guests entries. So don't wait to the last Tel: 614837. will be invited to a reception at minute; start composing and send in your work early.

For details and an entry form, SAEs to June Hosking, Burmah The Ridgeway School, Wroughton Castrol Staff Charity Group, Short is holding two concerts on Thurs- Story Competition, Burmah Castrol, day 11 December and Friday 12 Pipers Way, Swindon SN3 1 RE.

Christmas at

THE DANCE HOUSE Ellersdune Community Centre, Wroughton Saturday 20 December

THE WOODPECKER BANE) Tickets: £6, Conc. £4 Under 12s £1 Family ticket £15 tickets on door (if not sold out) or send cheque and SAE to The Dance House 131 Goddard Avenue, Swindon or call 641107

Christmas music

December, 730pm in the school hall.

Tickets are available from the school at £4 for adults and £3 concessions. Tel: 812824.

Thamesdown Ladies Choir and Pegasus Brass Band, fresh from an audience with the Queen, will be giving a rousing start to the Christmas season at St Mary's, Purton on Saturday 6 December, 730pm.

The programme includes a popular selection of modern and traditional songs with an opportunity to join in.

Tickets at door, £5 for adults, £4 for OAPs and under 16s, or from College Farm House, tel: 770525

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The One Stop.#.( Party Shop t Come and see our wide range of Christm decorations, novelties & gifts • Decoration service

Get your pieces of eight organised by calling the Arts Centre box office on 614837. A full price ticket costs £5.50, but a family of two adults and two children costs £18. Parties of 10 or more can get in for a measely £4 each.

Send your answers, with address & phone number to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8P0 by 19 December.

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Saturday 6 December Workshop Festive Fancies - make Christmas cards and decorations.

Arts Centre, lOam - 3pm. Suit 8 l3yrOlds. £10/8, book on 614837 Music Sean Wilson, Irish musician Tuesday 2 December and accordion player. Wyvern, Variety Danry La Rue. Wyvern, 730pm. £10 2.30pm & 730pm. From £7 Music Finbar Furey and Friends, a Wednesday 3 December stunning blend of Irish musicianship, Music The Ludwig Beatles in Concert (below). Wyvern, 730pm. emotional songs and very funny tales. Arts Centre, 8pm. £11 £7.50

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25 November to 11 December Exhibition A Winter Collaboration.

Vibrant local artists exhibit work to mark World Aids Day. Wyvern, 1 December to 21 December Exhibition The Who Cares? Initiative "WWW.WHOCARES.CO.UK/ SDM". Young people consider health and social issues that affect their lives. Arts Centre Monday 1 December to Wednesday 3 December Variety White Christmas and Murder in the Raj -, a double bill of Christmas songs and a thriller set in the India. Arts Centre, 2pm. £3 Monday 1 December Music The Music Club presents The Swindon Choral Society Chamber Choir. Arts Centre Music The Fureys in Concert Wyvern, 730pm. £10.50

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Thursday 4 December Drama Blood Brothers. Mrs Johnson, a working class mother from Merseyside struggles to survive. Arts Centre, 8pm. £5 Lecture Deep Play by Paul Pritchard, climber. Cotswold, Broadway Lane, South Cerney, 730pm. £3.50, to book tel: 01285 860123 Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta play Mendelssohn, Mozart and Beethoven. Wyvern 730pm. From £10.50, ul8s £7 Friday 5 December Illustrated talk Snakes & Spiders.

Lydiard Park Visitor Centre, 6pm to 8pm. Juniors £1, to book tel: 771419 Comedy Jeff Green. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50

Sunday 7 December Comedy Freddie Starr. Wyvern, 7pm & 930pm. £15, adults only Monday 8 December Music Chas 'n' Dave 25th Anniversary Show. Wyvern, 730pm. £10 Tuesday 9 December Music A Tribute to the Carpenters with special guests ABBA Gold.

Wyvern 730pm. £11.50 Wednesday 10 December Music Giant Rock & Roll Xmas Party 97. Wyvern, 730pm. £13 Wednesday 10 December to Saturday 13 December Family Old Town Theatre Company presents The Dracula Spectacular.

Arts Centre, 730pm. £4, £2 concs Thursday 11 December Ballet The Nutcracker presented by Magic & comedy Wayne Dobson Vienna Festival Ballet. Wyvern, 5pm Christmas Comedy & Illusion Spec& 8pm. E11.50&212.50 tacular. Wyvern, 730pm. £9.50

December overview Friday 12 December & Saturday 13 December Drama The Reduced Shakespeare Company presents The Bible, The Complete Word of God (Abridged).

Wyvern, 730pm. £10 Saturday 13 December Workshop Christmas door wreaths.

Lydiard Park Youth Hostel, 2pm to 4.30pm. £7.50, to book call 466532 Sunday 14 December Music Kentwood Choir presents Christmas Cracker. Wyvern, 5pm & 8pm. £7 Monday 15 December Music The Music Club presents The Warneford School Choir. Arts Centre, 745pm Wednesday 17 December Illustrated talk Mountain walking in Britain and Europe. Lydiard Park Visitor Centre, 7pm. £1, juniors 50p

25 Friday 19 December to 17 January Pantomime Robin Hood and The Babes in The Wood. Wyvern. See advert on page 19 Saturday 20 December Workshop Visual eats - make edible Christmas cards and decorations (from rice paper, fondant icing, chocolate etc). Suit all ages, under 8s to be accompanied by an adult.

Arts Centre,lOam - 3pm. £12/10 children, book on 614837 Music Swindon Choral Society present Approaching Christmas, a concert of carols and readings. St Mark's Church, Church Place, 730pm. £6, tickets from Duck Son & Pinker, or tel: 529086 Sunday 21 December Workshop Christmas table decoration. Lydiard Park Youth Hostel, 2pm. £6.50 to book tel: 466532 Friday 2 January & Saturday 3 January Family Treasure Island - plenty of swash and buckle. Suit over 6s. Arts Centre, 230pm & 7pm. £5.50, family ticket £18.

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Belvoir is an approved agency for HM Forces relocation and specilises with the needs of service personnel.

With offices across the UK.

Free phone: 0800 7316069 Fax: 01249760670 E-mail bpmwilts@aol.com http://www.belvoirgroup.com

Talbot

photo a7Y

Wedding Photography designed exclusively for you A professional, friendly and personal service Choice of wedding collections

Telephone Tod Clark Cirencester

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Christmas Gifts at Affordable Prices An extensive range of jewellery and accessories from £3.99 to suit all the family.

Call to arrange a party, private presentation, or to receive a catalogue.

Orders taken 7 days a week.

Call Paula Johnstone on 01793 - 705081

Ladies & Gentlemen Are you unattached?

For a safe way to meet new friends, either socially or by personally selected introductions, contact us now to find out how!

Call Mike on: 01793 886 121 or try our we site: .wwfirstiiii1,reioiis.ce,.ti Opeic 7 days a 9.30 - 9.3()

9 Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane runs courses and events throughout the year. For full details telephone 771080 Saturday 6 December Christmas Crafts, lOam - 4pm. Includes lunch. Make decorations, create presents.

Enjoy the £1O* Sunday lunch menu Feast upon the 8 dishes set before you. (6 for children)

Treat your family to lunch this Sunday at The Chinese Experience

Saturday 6 December Carols by Candlelight, 8pm, with Sunday Lunch mulled wine and mince pies. LisSpring Rolls ten or join in.

Capitol Spare Ribs Wednesday 17 December Spicy Chicken Swindon Storytellers, 730pm. SeaBeef in sonal stories. Everyone welcome. Black Bean Sauce Chicken with Bamboo Shoots Film at The Arts Centre & Mushrooms Egg Fried Rice Wednesday 3 December, 7.45pm The Crucible (12) Singapore Rice Daniel Day Lewis and Winona Noodles Ryder star in this adaptation by Toffee Banana Arthur Miller of his own play •10% service charge applicable based on the Salem witch trials Booking Recommended of 1692. £3.50 Wednesday 17 December, 730pm Big Night (15) Much praised film about two Peatmoor, Mead Way, West Swindon. Tel: 01793 877888 brothers struggling to run an Italian restaurant. Presented by Open 7 days a week: 12noon to 2pm & 6pm to 11pm Swindon Film Society. Followed AN EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE by cheese and wine party

Chinese (Experience

Søâcus ?fI4t'e

26

-

4

Alive Kids perform for the Queen and sing a tribute to Diana The Queen's visit to Swindon on 7 November took a surprise turn when she was confronted by a group of singing Zulus as she walked through the Brunel shopping centre.

Kids Alive from South Africa were in town for an evening show at the Link Centre, organised by the Boys Brigade. Fitting around the brief three minute Royal command performance, the group also ran workshops at Greendown School and the Town Hall dance studios.

The thirty singers, dancers and musicians come from Kwa Mashu, a sprawling township of 1.3 million people, north of Durban, where unemployment exceeds 90% and there are no state benefits.

The township is wracked by tribal and political violence and gun battles between rival gangs are common place.

Through music and dance the Alive Kids show 'We are Alive' tells the story of the plight, dreams and hopes of street children. The Link Centre performance was filled with high energy exuberance and a poignant message that children across the world are the victims of violence and deprivation.

The Alive Kids are also touring with 'Cry Not Child,' a production

COMPETITION WIN TWO LATIN AMERICAN CDs ALL ENTRANTS WIN FREE DANCE CLASS TICKETS Name the Colombian band entertaining on 4 December?

Answers to The Link, 13 Castle Dare, Freshbrook, Swindon by 19 December.

c,n be caught out

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DUNCAN CAR SPARES

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DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS FOR ALL YOUR MOTORING NEEDS Brake pads & shoes from £6.95 Brake discs & drums from £8.29 Wheel cylinders from £6.49 Clutch kits from £20.95 Alternators/starters from £15.95 Batteries from £23.95 Oil (per gallon) from £2.99 Suspension & ignition parts, filters & plugs, spray paints/primers/fillers Number plates £5.95 Brake pipes made to pattern All prices In d VAT

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That's the verdict of scores of Swindonians of all ages who are taking up Salsa, the newest and liveliest dance craze sweeping the country.

Once the preserve of lively Latins, Salsa can be enjoyed at dances at the Moonraker's Crossways Suite on Mondays. Starting with a 30 minute practice session for beginners at 8pm, the evening moves on to practice for intermediate levels and ends with a Salsa disco. Beginners £1.50, £3.50 for others.

On Thursday 4 December, there is a first Swindon visit for top Latin band Montuno from Colombia.

Starting at 830pm with a basic steps teach-in, the joint will jump until lam. Tickets from Swindon Information Centre at £7.50 include Latin food. For more information, call Ritmo Latino on 814353.

depicting the experience of living with the threat of land mines. As an encore, they sang a recently written and moving tribute to the antilandmines work spearheaded by Diana, Princess of Wales.

Right: An Alive Kid leap in the Greendown School drama studio Below: Exuberance, colourand high energy from Alive Kids at the Link Centre on 7 November

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Steve Lynham Motorcycle Repairs Servicing & repairs for most makes • Crankshaft, forks & brakes • Electrical work • Spare parts, batteries exhausts MOTs can be arranged Collection/delivery arranged Very competitive EBC prices SilkOlefle Call now: 01793 820630 -

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Swódtuc w6de 5

Multi-cultural lunch The West Swindon Family Project at 15 Gainsborough Way launched a lunch club for people whose first language is not English on Friday 28 November. The group meets every Friday between 12 noon and 2pm and will aim to give social support for people learning English.

The cost is £1. Turn up and take part or call 871303.

Womens Art on the move

Link Centre Mall Market Saturday 6 December, 10am - 12 noon Stalls £5, available to charitable, voluntary and community groups, Call 465461 to book Brook Field School Christmas Fayre Come and see Father Christmas Friday 5 December, 530pm Fun fair, craft and many other stalls Refreshments available Toothill Community Centre Christmas Bazaar Saturday 6 December, 2pm - 4pm Christmas Bazaar Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Saturday 6 December, 2pm . 4pm All the usual events and Santa's grotto Organised by Lydiard Millicent School Toothill School Christmas Fayre Friday 12 December, 320pm . 420pm All the usual events and Santa's grotto Coffee & mince pie morning Saturday 13 December The Church Hall, Devizes Road, lOam including book and bric-a-brac sale In aid of parish youth project, Christ Church with St Mary

Pi

For al your pet & garden needs

Building Services & Maintenance

Full range of cat and dog stockings Christmas trees and holly wreaths

[Jr

Available now: baby rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, budgies Open 7 days a week • Free local deUvey 537 Cricklade Road, Swindon (near the Moonrakers) Tel: 01793 700170

An exhibition by the Swindon Women's Art Group has moved from the West Swindon Library to Ashington House Surgery and the Milton Road Health Hydro.

The works are a perspective on how each group memberfeels about their health, as part of the Lottery funded Pictures of Health' project.

Group leaderBarbara Dixon says the paintings, collages, painted silk pieces and collection of memorabilia are a thought provoking way of promoting good health by taking art into the community.

Right: Janine Brown and Barbara Dixon of the Womens Art Group

FUN DRAISIN IN DEC-EMBER

CROSSWAYS PET & GARDEN

All general building work including uPVC fascias, guttering, etc.

For details, call Swindon 434019

THE NEW N1K-E- NOT SERVICES SECURITY P0/ST

Learn to speak out The Swindon Speakers Club aims to help its members develop and practice effective speaking skills.

Club members make speeches, both prepared and impromptu, and help is given in the use of voice, gestures and humour. Members learn to chair meetings, speak to camera, evaluate their presentations and help each other with constructive advice for improvement.

The atmosphere, at twice monthly meetings in the Crosslink Centre, Stratton St Margaret is friendly and encouraging; everyone can participate and build their confidence to speak competently both at work and socially.

Tofind out more, call Julia Wright on 770986.

Winners Great Western Train family pass competition in the October Link: Mrs D Wyatt, Tintagel Close, Toothill.

Compost competition in the October Link: William Cooper, Green Valley Ave., Haydon Wick.

Designed & manufactured in Swindon The Nik-E-Not comes complete with ground anchor into which the security post is slotted and locked.

When not in use, it can be removed and stored.

IDEAL FOR GARDEN SHEDS AND GATES & GARAGE DOORS Also posts for caravans, camping trailers, cars & motor bikes. All quick fitting and removable.

Tel/Fax: Swindon 01793 881620 Mobile: 0589 376229 PROTECTION AT ITS BEST • RCP SERVICES ARE DEDICATED IN FIGHTING CRIME

FURNITURE' FACTORY SAME DAY DELIVERY OF FURNITURE AT FACTORY PRICES

3 piece suites at £299.95 • Sofa beds at £69.95 • Leather suites • Loose cover suites Futons

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28

The Link Magazine. December 1997

Big Bash! '97. Just monster!

THE REGISTER

The Link gave away ten family tickets to the Children's BBC Big Bash at the end of October.

We asked Debs Osorio from Shaw to check it out from an adult's point of view.

Link & Learn Pre-School at the

sporting activities or indeed participate in them.

My initial parental response was, I believe, quite normal. I was immediately overwhelmed. As I grew accustomed to the atmosCertainly well named, the Bash phere, to which most children was, I understand, bigger than ever seemed to respond happily, I found in this, its fourth year.

Two versions of Blue Peter's Richard The three enormous NEC halls Bacon at the BBC Big Bash provided space for thousands of adults and children to enjoy watching or taking part in all sorts of activities. Some were obviously connected with the BBC children's programmes. Others were less so, but appealed to the interests of all ages. There was no shortage of opportunity to spend your pocket money and more. However, you could also simply wander round and watch performances, listen to music, look at trade stands and From the safe haven of the adult creche, I took stock. Free hot drinks and armchairs gave me and other parents a chance to take a breather from the frenetic atmosphere of the Big Bash!

A Merry Christmas and a

Peaceful New Yearfrom medical and support services Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226

Why not call in and see our complete spectacle range and book an eye test today For a limited period only

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Brendon Ball and Rona Willett Friendly Family Care I.V. Sedation Available • Hygienist

© (01793) 873044 BUPA DentalCover Freshbrook Village Centre WEST SWINDON'S LONGEST SERVING DENTIST, SINCE 1981

Link Centre have vacancies for 2 to 3 year olds and 3 - 5 year olds.

Drop into the playgroup and meet the staff or ring Sarah Smale on 872360 for information.

Nutkins Parent &Toddler Group at Upper Shaw Farm Centre is starting new session for parents and babies under 12 months on Tuesdays, 130pm to 330pm. For information, call Sharon Matthewson 874764.

Infertility support The Swindon Fertility Group, supports couples currently encountering difficulties in having children.

The group meets on the second Friday of the month at the PMH Maternity Unit with guest speakers and discussions. To find out more, call 875902 or 611319.

M1E1RJRW (C]HI PAR ]ISSTMASS Christmas Greetings to all patients from the Friends of the Phoenix Surgery, Toothill • Tel: 433211

COOPERS CHEMIST

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-4

myself really enjoying the opportunity to see TV personalities in the flesh. I've watched them over the years and feel, like the children, that they are people I know well.

I enjoyed too, watching how the event was being filmed, especially being able to go into a viewing area and see how the Big Bash! was being linked into BBC2 on Sunday morning.

At the end of the event after hours on my feet, I had another welcome sit down and watched fifty minutes of pantomime featuring CBBC personalities, including the infamous Demon Headmaster, Blue Peter presenters, Record Breaker Cheryl Baker and bands North and South and Damage. It made a good way to end a most interesting family day out.

with up to 50% off frames

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Mfl A Very Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year from Dr Nixon and Partners and the staff at Ashington House Surgery Westlea

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would like to wish all their customers a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Tel: 872033

4 S4asthLsGreetings 44444 from Ken and all the staff at Ashington Way Pharmacy Ashington Way, Westlea Tel: (01793) 616840

The Link Magazine. December 1997

Multi-metal can bank makes recycling easier A new kind of can bank appeared at Toothill Village Centre in early November, one designed to take all kinds of steel and metal cans. Other can banks should only have aluminium cans deposited in them.

Recycling Officer Sean SpencerWort said it is now easier than ever to recycle cans in West Swindon.

More multi-metal banks are planned for other areas of the town.

HARD WATER the electronic solution Krystal's miniaturised computer technology clears limescale from boilers, plumbing and appliances.

Fit it yourself in a few minutes Guaranteed for five years • No chemicals • No plumbing • No maintenance • Less than £2 a year to run

Post Christmas recycling In just a few weeks all those Christmas cards pouring through the front door will have to go somewhere. So will the sorry looking tree that brought so much delight on Christmas day.

They can all be recycled. The trees can be turned into mulch for next summer's planting beds, and the cards will raise money to buy more trees for the Great Western Above: Fergus the Can shows Sean Community Forest.

Spencer-Wort, right, and Steven Look out for details of recycling Bennett from Thamesdown Glass Revenues in the January Link. cycling where to put their cans

IIPIIAIEI

li

GARDEN RUBBISH SERVICES SERVICES

Forum for a new way of life after the millenium

For all your garden needs

Poverty, inequality, pollution, global warming are the themes of an Agenda 21 Weekend taking place at Lower Shaw Farm from 24 to 26 April.

Although Agenda 21 is a global action plan for a better future adopted by world leaders at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, this residential weekend will be mainly devoted to the individual actions and lifestyle changes that will contribute to social justice and safeguarding the natural environment.

Guest speakers will talk about farming methods in Britain and in poorer countries and there will be workshops on transport, waste, the arts and personal commitment.

For more information, call Lower Shaw Farm on 771080.

Fencing put up, hedges & trees trimmed or removed.

Lawns cut front & back from £10.

fJ!Jf

N t ti I

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OVER 3000 GROUP STOCK VEHICLES TO CHOOSE FROM

29

Also all types of rubbish cleared from garden and household: e.g. washing machines, 'fridges, cookers at £10 each 01793 879024 Mobile 0831 456660

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Call Church Hill Services on 01793 851130 or brochure and details

CL Reclaimed Timber & building materials We buy and sell: Ply, bricks, timber, hardboard, chipboard and RSJs

We also supply: sand & gravel (in bags)

For more details %; pop in or tell: 829715 The Yard, Tate Estate, King sdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

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SALES OPENING TIMES MONDAY-FRIDAY 8.30ani-7.00prr. SATURDAY 8.30am-6.00pm. SUNDAY 10.00am-4.00pm

TELsSO1793 520002 Cd,hOo,n to, ,ltO,t,at,00 po,005ns Only

The Link Magazine • December 1997

30

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For a local efficient service,

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SPED AL ANNOUNCEMENT

by JD Brown (Jewellers) Ltd. Reøceøcbev usfrow, West Swicidv Ce.ttre?

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We are still trading and can be found at 41 Havelock Street, Swindon and continue to offer all our customers, old and new, our extensive range of watches, jewellery and gifts.

Bring this advertisement with you to receive a 10% discount on your next purchase.

Come along and visit us. It will be good to see our regular customers again, or telephone on 01793 522715 Please note this otter does not apply to already discounted items

'4 E

VETERINARY SURGEONS Simon Cower & Associates Ootj9

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77 High Street, Purton Bath Road, Cricklade Tel: 771869 Tel: 751698 Office hours: Consulting hours: Mon to Fri 830am - 700pm Mon, Wed, Fri 900am - 1000am, Sat 830am - 100pm 500pm - 7.00pm PHONE FOR Thurs 9.00am - 10.00ani CONSULTING HOURS Sat 3.00pm - 4.00pm All consultations by appointment All consultations by appointment OTHER TIMES AND VISITS

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BSE: the threat far and wide This month could determine future lives, writes John Ball, right, from Grange Park.

We are not very good at worrying about things that might happen to us ten years hence, daily troubles taking over all too easily.

So you might not be that interested in the protests over storage of BSE-laden cattle waste at Wroughton aerodrome. That's miles away, I hear you say.

But now let me suggest that you, and your children, could be dying of human BSE within ten years, due to prion-laden winds infecting you in 1998 from those Wroughton hangers.

Swindon Council's Have I got your attention now?

Development Control I read in New Scientist (25 October, page 5) Sub-Committee considers that BSE-laden tissue has finally been classified the storage proposal as a dangerous biological agent by Britain's on Monday 8 December, Health and Safety Executive. This means the 7pm, at the risks of infection, from contact with skin or Civic Offices, breathing it in, is so great that scientists have to Euclid Street, Swindon use glove boxes.

I know a lot about glove boxes. I so careful at putting even tiny bits spent 13 years at AWE of infected cows into gloveboxes Aldermaston, where the deadly before doing whatever experipoisonous metal plutonium is kept ments they want to do. Now imin glove boxes -metal and glass agine 45,000 TONNES of the same cabinets with massive washing-up- material being dumped in three type rubber gloves. If a glove windy exposed aircraft hangers breaks (just as they do at home), overlooking Swindon. the alarm bells ring, and special That is why they have to be fans suck extra air into the box, to stopped. Our lives, and our chilstop the deadly material getting dren's lives, ten years hence, may out and infecting or contaminat- depend on what you do this month.

Write to your MP (addresses on ing you.

The BSE prion, a tiny particle of page 12), phone your councillors, deadly protein, is in many ways talk it over with friends and deeven more dangerous than heavy cide on action. West Swindon metals like plutonium, and a more could become as deadly as certain killer because, unlike plu- Chernobyl unless you stop it now. tonium, it reproduces once it gets Contact Mrs Peggy Dennis on inside your head. This is, in every 812041 for the latest on her camsense, a can of worms. It literally paign, and give her more power to does your head in. her elbow. She needs it, and we So, imagine scientists being ever need her.

Voluntary vacancies in December Dial a Ride & Community Transport incorporate a bus and taxi service for people of any age who, due to a permanent or temporary disability, find it difficult or impossible to use existing public transport. They need drivers over 21 years old and who have had a driving licence for 2 years or more.

There is a driving assessment to be accepted onto the register, and there is full training in driving and safety equipment.

The Family Support Project is part of the national charity, The Children's Society, and they need volunteers for a variety of tasks in their offices - collation information for a newsletter or fact sheet; people to use the database to answer enquiries; help with general office skills; and people to record details onto audio tape.

Community Access Project Mencap want people who have a few hours to spare each month to TWIGS - Therapeutic Work in enjoy an activity with someone Gardening in Swindon - aims to with a learning disability who has give people with mental ill-health similar interests. the opportunity to undertake therapeutic gardening work.

For further details of these vacanVolunteers are needed with ba- cies and many others, contact Swinsic horticultural/ gardening skills don Volunteers at Voluntary Acto work with small groups. Ad- tion on 538398 or come in and see ministration support help in a us at I John Street, Swindon, on small office team and volunteers Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays to do general gardening mainte- and Fridays between 1030am and nance tasks are also needed.

500pm.

The Link Magazine. December 1997 31

Rocking school ready to release Christmas CD

Wedding Receptions at Lydiard Park

Musicians from Greendown School showed off their talents in public performances during November and are now looking forward to top their autumn of music making with the release of an 18 track CD in December.

The pe?fect setting for an occasion to remember The management centre at Lydiard House is now able to cater exclusively for wedding receptions.

For information, please telephone 01793 770062.

HTS Lydiard Park, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 9PA

The Sun Inn Lydiard Millicent Some of the recording artists to be heard on the Greendown CD with recording engineer Nick Beale, from left, Alex Ogle, Lewis Garrett, Chloe Brown, Gemma Whitmarsh, Vanessa Hudson, Alex Bridges, Sammy Jenner, Paul Collyer

Fully licensed pub offering an extensive menu prepared with pride and the knowledge that all dishes are made with only the freshest of ingredients.

Good selection of wines and ales etc to choose from.

Traditional Sunday dinners and bar snacks.

Party bookings for up to 40 people welcome.

You won't be disappointed with your visit

The top eight acts selected at On 13 November, singers Sammy Jenner, Gemma Whit- auditions in October awaited their marsh, Nicola Mapstone, Kate turn whilst the audience, includRudkins brought the Wyvern ing special guests the Mayor and Theatre alive at the Pudsey and Mayoress of Swindon and Julia Prospect Show with a spirited per- Drown MP, bid for their services formance of 'Ooh, Ah, just a little with encouragement from profesbit,' and backed Linda Newman of sional compere Geoff Marsh.

Over 30 students paid for studio Masquerade to premiere a new tune 'Have Faith' written by Linda recording sessions which features vocalists and live instruments and and Danny Newman.

On 23 November, a sell-out singing to pre-recorded backing crowd of 200 people took part in a tracks.

Design-A-Cabaret evening at the Last touches are being put to the Hilton Hotel to raise money for the master recording and it is hoped Greendown Music School and that the CD will be available by mid-December.

Children in Need.

For details, telephone (01793) 770425 or just call in

.5

Thanks for making our Design-A-Cabaret a great event Greendown Community School would like to thank the following for making the Design-A-Cabaret evening at the Hilton Hotel on 23 November a great success: all the performers, the Mayor and Mayoress of IR40 ~~Swindon, Julia Drown MP, Chris Lothian and the GREEflDOWfl Design-A-Cabaret team, the audience who bought tickets, The Link magazine, the Evening Advertiser and, Allied Dunbar Social Club Angela Lorraine Salon Britannia Towing Centre Broome Manor Golf Centre

BT Burmah Castrol Chinese Experience Cloverleaf Good Company Salon Grange Farm Nursery Donovan's Drive School Hair Razors Salon Haydon Centre Hyde and Seek Furnishings Pets Kitchen, Old Town Leigh Childs Martial Arts Studio

Motorola Mr Mock's Chinese Takeaway Nick Martin Paula Johnson Pinkertons Restaurant Readers Digest Rosemary Conley Diet & Fitness Swindon Town FC Swindon Cycling Centre Solutions Swim School Transkos Drive School Victoria Bookshop Windmill Pub Westleaze Riding School Wrag Barn Golf Club

Chinese Restaurant 00 Sparkle up Your .5 dho Christmas -

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32

The Link Magazine. December 1997

TRUSTMOVE

Lions manage Santa's pre-Christmas tour West Swindon Lions Club will be out fundraising with Father Christmas and his reindeer float at the West Swindon Centre Fridays 5, 12, 19 December, 5pm to 9pm.

They will also tour The Prinnells and Middleleaze during the early evenings of 9 and 16 December respectively.

REMOVALS & STORAGE Containerised Storage

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For a free quotation, call Swindon: 430501/728807

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Rent, lease, purchase. DIV sales & service. Salt delivered.

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'Decorating in December? Let me help.

PHILIP STONE

PAINTER & DECORATOR

1.

Now's the time to think about painting the spare room, or the lounge to make your Christmas decorations looI evg better this year.

Call now for work to be done before Christmas Tel: 870515 or Mobile 0374 - 2

CHRIS SPEC

10% off on orders over £25 Not to be used with any other offer. Valid until 31/12/97

* Commercial rates available * Dupont Stainshield Protects against spills and dirt * Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh

Mondays Moving On is a group for anyone who is experiencing difficulty in their lives. We discuss our problems when we feel like it, in a confidential and supportive environment. We sometimes have speakers, run a quiz or just have a general chat.

We meet in the Link Centre Community Suite from 1015am to 1145am. There is a small charge to cover the cost of refreshments and room hire.

Anyone interested in joining us will be made very welcome. Either just come along on a Monday morning, or if you would like further information you can talk to me in the Community Suite Office.

Tel: 465462 (direct line)

A2ZHome Improvements All your needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating and much more

Tel: (01793) 692340 Mobile: (0378) 207977 111 Pinehurst Road, Swindon

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Monday: time for a new outlook Do you sometimes find it difficult to get going on a Monday morning or maybe feel a bit down after the weekend, asks Pam Pixton?

Alan Trask of Ultra Clean

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Kitchenware, household goods, gift sets, exquisite ornaments, picture frames, mirrors, DIY tools, radio cassettes, watches, stationery, electrical appliances, radios, calculators, Chrisççnas disposable tableware, Sstmas scented candles, wide selection of toys, as cards d paper Christmas decoratis.

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AC. E. T:c- king Cre wi - ,h Age Concern Swindon 6 SWINDON

Responding to the needs of older people Age Concern is the UK's leading independent charitable body committed to the wellbeing of all older people in society.

"As a caring organisation, we are committed to the effective promotion and delivery of good quality services and products to enable people to get the most from later life," says director Jo Osorio. "We undertake to influence policy and practice and change views about ageing in order to create greater understanding about the needs of older people - both in terms of their care and the opportunities they seek to help make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. But to do that effectively we always need more help.

"People are surprised to learn that it costs over £1,000 a day to provide all the helpful services we offer in Swindon - supporting individuals and their families in very real, practical ways; helping local organisations like lunch clubs and other older peoples groups. We do have some grants

from the Council but we still have volunteers' expenses and we Concern Swindon as a volunteer to raise at least £100,000 every provide training and support or to make a donation, call 692166 year ourselves; we do have over where needed." or write to 14 Milton Road, 200 volunteers working with us To find out more, to join Age Swindon SNI 5JE. but we always need more to help

One - 2 - One Care Assisting you in your own home ••

•.Escorting •• Housework

•:• Bathing •:• Shopping •. Gardening

Inspected by Social Services

Edna A Phelps Age Concern Swindon director Jo Osorio us - visiting older people, acting as good neighbours and more, working at our day centres and in our shop. We make sure people are not out-of-pocket when they help us. We meet

Services especially aimed at the older person Age Concern Insurance Services have built an impressive reputation for providing helpful and competitive services aimed particularly at people aged 55 and over.

A new practical guide for protecting and maintaining your home has just been published.

This free leaflet gives tips on the physical measures you can take to protect your home and winter hints for home owners.

Reminding Link readers of the importance of insuring their homes and contents, Age Concern Swindon director Jo Osorio said, "we offer affordable insurance to people over 55. With our protection you can really feel at home and not just because the weather may be bad".

Discover the benefits of Age

Personal care

72 High Street, Wootton Bassett SN4 7AR

Tel: 01793 850600 FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS

Take advantage of your age • • • • •

Home & Contents Pet Motor Travel Motor Breakdown

To find out how we can help you, contact: Concern Insurance Services for yourself by calling Swindon 692166 for details of Age Concern Home & Contents, Car, Motor Breakdown, Pet and Travel policies and check out their competitive premiums.

Age Concern Swindon 14 Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE

01793 692166

AGE 55+

If you're aged 55 or over, you're entitled to substantially better value insurance covcr

ACE INSURANCE SERVICES All our prnfts support the work of Age Concern

It's winter time. Keep warm with help from

34

• Sanctuary ui

Housing_

Sheltered accommodation for rent for people of retirement age For details, call 01793 511333 Fax: 01793 431067

Everybody can play a part in helping older people keep warm this winter "We all know that really cold weather makes life difficult, even dangerous, for many older people," says Jo Osorio, Age Concern Swindon director.

"That's why we're asking

everyone now to look out for their older neighbours. Don't wait until the cold arrives! Cold weather also brings all the worries about paying fuel bills.

If you have problems with them

or you are worried about being cut off, contact the fuel company straight away - the phone number is on the bill. It's vital to keep warm and you shouldn't be disconnected during the winter."

Cold in bed? Don't be!

Sanctuary Housing Association Swindon Area Office 89/91 Cricklade Road Gorse Hill, Swindon SN2 1 A

Don't be cold in bed this have plenty of blankets to give winter. Age Concern Swindon away which can be collected from 14 Milton Road, Swindon (Monday - Friday between lOam and 4pm). To have some delivered, call 692166.

"Blankets-on-Wheels' is just FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS one of the many services offered ELECTRIC AND MANUAL WHEELCHAIRS, SCOOTERS

by Age Concern Swindon this winter. Portable gas or electric - * New and used machines - 30 in stock fan and convector heaters are * Repairs servicing accessories available for emergencies as well. * Stairlifts: new and reconditioned These services are free but * Bath aids and walking aids donations are always welcome!

SWINDON MOBILITY CENTRE

* Everything for the disabled and elderly * 24 hour call out Hire For emergency service telephone: amacht,e your YO 01367 253642 anytime holidays Office hours telephone: 01793 423484 - \N,f"\ Or call in at Unit 21 Axis Business Centre Westmead

Abbeyfield Welcome Moving to Abbeyfield is strange Oh, what a difference! Oh, what a change!

My room is cosy, my food is cooked I must confess I'm truly hooked.

I sit with friends to eat my meals, You've no idea how good it feels.

And if I say it's really strange It's not for the loss, but for the gain.

I wake in the morning, someone is there, I wash my face and comb my hair, I make my tea and eat my toast, I read my paper and thumb through the post.

Walk into the garden, hear the birds And for once in my life I'm lost for words.

Written by M Hurrell, Wrexham

Winter tips and helpful advice Age Concern England publishes over 40 free factsheets and three are especially useful at this time of year. Factsheet I is about help with heating your home; Factsheet 18 is a brief guide to money benefits; Factsheet 13 is for older homeowners and gives information about financial help for repairs and adaptations.

You can get the full list of factsheets and copies of all of them from Age Concern Swindon, 14 Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE.

Is someone you know getting older?

Are you worried about them living alone?

Abbeyfield may have the answer you are both looking for: + Freedom from shopping and cooking + Independence and privacy •• Warmth and comfort all year round + And the cost? Around £130 a week.

ONLY ONE ROOM LEFT Abbeyfield House 73 Bath Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 822455 Registered Charity 200719 Where older people find care is housing

Abbey4eld

Canipaigningfor better cold weather payments to pensioners with some Jlindraising for Age Concern Swindon - and having a bit offun at the same time

Age Concern at the ready .. to lend you heaters or to give you blankets in an emergency. For help, call Age Concern Swindon on 692166.

Beat the cold without breaking the bank The Energy Saving Trust and local electricity companies are working in partnership to help older people heat their homes more efficiently. Under the Budget Heating Plan people over 60 who currently rely on an open fire to heat their home could be supplied (free) with an electric fire in their hearth, a fan assisted storage heater in their main living room and, in some cases, cavity wall insulation or a storage heater in the hall too.

For a leaflet about the Budget Heating Plan write (no stamp needed) to Freepost NEA 1275, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NET IBR or phone (free) on 0800 243 114.

Age Concern Swindon Keep the cold at bay We may have had a few nights of frost, but not the sustained cold weather we often have in January or February, with snow thrown in for good measure.

Professionally drawn by

The Andrews Partnership (01793) 642245 From £25.00 inc.

Home visit service from £35.00 inc.

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA

Home i/isits by appointment Telephone: 01793 613334 -

Chiropodist Reflexologist

• Use draught excluders and Haydon Wick resident, Audrey keep curtains closed but make Wood, has volunteerd with Age Consure that air vents are not blocked cern Swindon for ten years as fires need fresh air to burn properly.

Need a wheelchair?

There's no charge to borrow one for a few weeks from Age Concern Swindon, though a donation is welcome For more information about this popular service, call Age Concern Swindon on 692166.

CLINIC NOW OPEN AT

60 HIGH STREET Woorror. BASSETT

.?

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh Call (01793) 849914 anytime

*A

sore feet?

Answermachine all calls returned

• Try to keep a constant temperature of 21'C (70'F) in all rooms. If this is not possible or affordable keep one room warm and try to preheat the bedroom thoroughly before going to bed.

• Wrap up warmly with scarf, hat and gloves before you go out, no matter how short the trip.

W I L I.. S

A professionally prepared will can avoid delay and distress for your family

However elderly people feel it whenever it's cold and some older residents are seriously at risk. So Age Concern Swindon is stepping up its winter work to provide advice and support that could save lives.

There are plenty of straightforward tips to keep warm and healthy in the cold:

• Make sure you have some hot food and drink during every day and take a little exercise if you can.

35

HEEL or LEG PAIN? HELP IS AT HAND Book your appointment with Martin Drew MBcHA, MSSch

CHIROPODIST Children's verruca surgery open.

All other aspects of foot care Id catered for.

Call: (01793) 511284 anytime Home visit service or come to our modern town centre surgery

it

t

"I didn't want to lose my independence Homeline allows me to stay safe and secure in my own house" —

Life for George is easier - if you are worried about an elderly relative or friend or just someone that needs your help, when you can't be there we can.

-

Trained & caring 24 hour mobile wardens are on hand to lend some help at the touch of a button.

Homeline's wardens can get in touch with a relative or doctor if required or can help where there is a problem.

We offer a variety of monitors which can easily fixed in the home from panic buttons by the front door

to pendants which you can wear around your neck.

At only £3.15 a week don't you think the peace of mind is worth it?

01793 464430 Sharing the caring with

horneline k(~-A

Swinton BOROUGH COUflC1L

36

TAKE CARE WITH AGE CONCERN SWINDON

Offer your time and make a positive difference The clock is ticking for everyone - time is precious and your experience and enthusiasm are valuable.

Why not share them with Age Concern Swindon - working with them to bring a little something extra to the lives of older people.

Age Concern Swindon has a range of services for older people and your help is needed to make it all happen - the Volunteer Organiser will work with you to match your interests and skills to Age Concern Swindon's priorities.

PROSTATE Manhood

You need give as little or as much time as you can spare, so if you would like to know more about becoming a wheelchair pusher, day centre helper, voluntary visitor, meals-on-wheels driver, charity shop assistant or an advocate contact Patricia Chandler, Volunteer Organiser, Age Concern Swindon, 14 Milton Road, Swindon, SN1 5JE, telephone 01793 692166.

She is waiting for your call.

Volunteer receptionist Enid Birch, ready to take your call offering help to Age Concern Swindon

Nothing helped Mack Odegaard, 48, until he found a natural solution which solved his 15 years of prostate misery in 9 weeks.

Mack's complete story and secret ... Yours FREE Now his doctor uses it!

and ready with helpful information too

URGENTLY NEEDED Good quality clothes for all ages, bric-a-brac, books, records/tapes, household utensils, etc to sell in our shop at 51 Fleet Street.

Money raised goes towards local work with older people all the year round. Please give generously. We'll collect within Swindon if you can't deliver. Call 692166 for collection.

Age Concern Swindon. Registered Charity No. 800056

Call FREE 0800 0267007 NOW N.H.S. Ltd, Ref: VSLINK. Box 64, W Sussex P019 1 E

4

3-lame Farm Foods ¶There "s something rea[tq tasty happening on your doorstep!

Home Farm Foods is the UK's premier home delivery service for TOP QUALITY FROZEN FOODS NO BULK BUYING • NO MINIMUM ORDER Whether catering for one or for a large family, then our service is for you

Christmas Ballrooni & Social Sequence Tea Dance Ideal for regular dancers and newcomers alike Sunday 14 December 2.00pm - 4.00pm Cost: £1.50

FOR A FAST RELIABLE, FREE SERVICE CALL

Freefone: 0800 525372 For our FREE full colour catalogue or for our exciting full colour Christmas foods and gifts catalogue 24 HOUR ANSWERING SERVICE

We [ool(forwartl to being of service to

Other Young at Heart activities include Wise Owls - keep fit class, tea dancing, line dancing and our popular Young at Heart Club For further information call 706666 or pick up a Young at Heart Activities leaflet Haydon Centre Thames Avenue Haydon Wick, Swindon Registered as a charity

10% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER WITH THIS ADVERTISEMENT

SwrnDon uO,OUr,} COUT1CUt

The Link Magazine • December 1997

AT CHURCH THIS CHRISTMAS St John's, Haydon Wick Sunday 14th Christingle Service, 4pm Sunday 21st Carol Service and Communion, 11am Carol Service with Emmanuel URC, 6pm Wednesday 24th Midnight Communion, 1130pm Christmas Day Family Service, 10am Emmanuel United Reformed Church, Haydon Wick Sunday 14th Childrens Carol Service, 1045am Sunday 21st Emmanuel Carols, 1045am Joint Carol Service at St John's (see above) Wednesday 24th Christmas Communion, 1130pm Christmas Day Christmas Celebration, 1030am The Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads Sunday 21st Family Carol Service, 1030am, Abbey Meads Community Centre Wednesday 24th Midnight Celebration, 1130pm, Church House, 1 Hayward Close, Abbey Meads Christmas Day Family Service (bring a present to show), 1030am, Church House, 1 Hayward Close, Abbey Meads Swindon Family Church Sunday 21st Family Service, Link Centre, 1030am St Mary's Church, Lydiard Tregoze Sunday 21st Family Service, 9am Junior Church Christmas Service, 1030am Lessons and Carols by candlelight, 630pm Wednesday 24th Crib Service, 3pm Midnight Communion by candlelight, 1130pm Christmas Day Family Communion, 1030am All Saints Church, Lydiard Millicent Sunday 14th Communion Service, 8am Christingle Family Service, 1030am Evening Communion Service, 630pm Wednesday 17th Christmas Pram Service, 145pm Friday 19th Lydiard Millicent School Carol Service, 10am Sunday 21st Communion Service, 8am Morning Communion Service, 10.30am Candle-lit Service of Lessons & Carols, 630pm Wednesday 24th Christmas Eve Family Service, 5pm Midnight Communion, 1130pm Christmas Day Communion Service, 8am Christmas Day Family Service, 1030am Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Sunday 21st All Age Carol Service,10.30am Lessons and Carols, 6.30pm Wednesday 24th Crib Service, 3pm Midnight Communion, 1130pm Christmas Day Family Communion, 1030am Westlea Church Sunday 14th Sunday 21st

Nativity Play, 10am Morning Service, lOam Nine Lessons and Carols by candlelight, 630pm Wednesday 24th Childrens Carols, 3pm Christmas Day Family Christmas Communion, 10am Toothill Church Sunday 14th

Family Service with Children's Nativity Play, 1045am Sunday 21st Carol Service with Family Communion, 1045am Christingle Service, 4pm Wednesday 24th Communion Service, 1130pm Christmas Day Family Service, 1045am

What is a Christingle?

Caren Madni, a member of St John's Church, Haydon Wick writes Christingle means 'Christ-light'. It is a powerful visual aid to tell of God's gifts to the world.

37

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday I Oam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

"The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice; turn not away therefrom if though desirest Me" The Baha'i faith is the second most widespread religion in the world and is working During the service, led by Rev. towards universal peace Raymond Adams, above, all the and harmony children hold an orange which repFor more information, resents God's love in the creation contact the Swindon Baha'is of the world. Fruit and sweets on Community on 01793 421615 cocktail sticks represent God's love or 01793 872853 in the four seasons of the year and in providing the fruits of the earth.

A lighted candle represents His love in sending Jesus, 'the Light of the world'.

A red ribbon is tied around the orange to represent God's love in Live with integrity the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Love wholeheartedly At the first Christingle Service Trust God in all things held on Christmas eve 1747 at SUNDAYS AT THE Marienborn in what was then LINK CENTRE Moravia, the Pastor, John de (Community Suite) Watteville, encouraged the children to take their Christingle home 1 O.3Oam to relight it and place it in their All ages of children & teens cared for cottage window to show the light Information: Call Brian of Christ to passers-by. at the Church Office: 849731 Come and join us at our in association with Christingle Service on Sunday 14 NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL December, 4pm.

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight 772417 (for the Village and Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw- 1 0:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Until Ann McKenzie arrives, please contact Andrew Hethington Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Jan Partridge 534992 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

For Roman Catholic Church Christmas services, contact: St Peter's Church, Westlea - Fr Tom Kelly on 874400 St Mary's Church, Rodbourne - Fr Liam Slattery on 535089.

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Bastist • Church of EnIand • Methodist • United Reformed Church

38

The Link Magazine. December 1997

RGR PLASTERING All internal & external work undertaken Extensions & alterations No job too small • Free estimates

Tel: 642283 Primary, Secondary & Adult TUITION

ALL SUBJECTS ALL AGES PREMIER TUTORS

01793-814354 Best Value - Best Results

Magical entertainer for children's parties and adult shows featuring: illusion, comedy and mystery

Call J. Martin Tel: 694930

Tel: 727619

GASTECH Gas appliance

maintenance & repair specialists Installation, servicing

Play the Piano

GET NAIL'U"

and repair to all gas appliances

tbl r® Learn to Sing

• Perfect sculptured nails • Acrylic, Gel & Fibre Glas • 10 years experience \'4.

For further details ring, Sarah 01793 -701158

LLLL For Sale

'JONELLI'

Washing machine, cooker and vacuum cleaner repairs New and reconditioned washing machine and cooker sales

Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

1111111111 liii!

& central heating

Tel: (01793) 873060

L;\ L\

For Sale

Boys Raleigh Nitro mountain bike, 15" Ivory satin wedding dress, short frame, 15 gears, good condition, £50. sleeved, long skirt with train, size 10/ Tel: 642742 12, £80. Satin ivory court shoes, size Raleigh Lizard ladies bike, little used, 5.5, £5. tel: 881362 helmet available, £60. Tel: 874034 Chinese silk dress, blue, small, £28.

2 mountain bikes, £65. Mountain Brown leather boots, size 8, £38. 2 bike, Trowcers, £12. Mountain bike small mirrors, £10. Tel: 532679 £28 (needs new lever). Tel: 532679 Size 14 ladies tan full length sheepRaleigh Activator, suit boy aged 8-12 skin coat, exc condition, hardly worn, yrs, 21 speed, £70. Raleigh Mega Ex- £50 Tel: 725944 (Greenmeadow) treme, suit girl aged 7-10 yrs, 5 speed, Loveson brown walking hoots, exc £60. Tel: 705259 (Abbey Meads) condition, size 6, £30 ono. Octopus Pushchair with matching hood swivel motorbike leather gloves with waterwheels, face anyway, 3 position lie proof covers, black, vgc, large, £10. back, ideal from birth, £40. Car seat, Tel: 771845 (Lydiard Millicent) to 4 yrs, clean, £25. Tel: 875665 Salopettes, medium, dark blue, £20.

Tomy Dream Rider, carry back pack, Ski jacket, navy/white large, never worn blue canvas, metal frame, padded £30. Ladies ski suit, size 10, turquoise, straps and detachable rucksack, excel- never worn, £30. Tel: 771845 lent condition, £25. Mothercare, Hostess servery in good condition, bouncy cradle, vgc, £5. Tel: 728199 £50. Tel: 770384 (Lydiard Millicent) Navy blue SilverCross Wayfarer Rocking chair, white cane, as new, pushchair with carrycot, raincover, £25. Beech hi-fl cabinet, vgc, £25.

Broderie Anglaise sunshade and Light green carpet, remnant wool/nycosytoes, must sell, £60. Tel: 881362 lon, 43" wide x 910" long, £25. Tel: Mothercare baby walker, £15. Boys 726975 (Woodhall Park) coat, Benetton, 6-12 months, £8. Zanussi slimline dishwasher, good MaClaren buggy with new rain cover, working order, £80. Tel: 876518 £15. Push along or ride and rock baby Glass top, round table, £12. Many walker, £10. All excellent condition. books, hardback & soft, £60 ono. Tel: Tel: 874131 (Freshbrook) 532679 Britax buggy suitable from birth on- Three piece suite, brandy plum, rewards, navy with moon & star design, versible patterned cushions, Scotch Ind rain cover, £60 ono. Various other Guarded, 12 month old, £500. Tel: baby equipment available. Tel: 726188 524194 Toothill) Mothercare bouncing chair, pale Limited edition Danbury mint collecgrey/white stripe, vgc £5. Childs trike, tors plates, 'Children of the Week, comsturdy plastic tubular frame, rear tip- plete series, boxed with certificates, per and horn, good condition, 2-4 yrs, cost £140, sell £80. Tel: 701117 £5. Tel: 487868 (Freshbrook) Double/Queen quilt cover, 2 pillowSilver Cross Wayfarer 3-in-1 pram/ cases, cream/floral. Two new pillows. pushchair/carrycot with rainhood & sun £10. Deep filled baby quilt, £5. Tel: canopy, £120. Moulinex babychef 876862 (Middleleaz) blender with storage jars, £15. Quilted Mahogany unit, drinks cabinet, glass baby bouncy chair, £8. Mothercare display units, lights, cupboards, vgc, baby bath, £5. Tel: 882989. £100. Car seat, KL Jeeney, converts Lego galleon with box, instruction, to booster, vgc, £10. Tel: 487868 made-up, ready to view, cost £75, take White desk with drawer ideal for com£35. Also very large box of various lego puter or homework, exc condition, £12.

- offers. Tel: 874661 (Grange Park) Wood framed 3 seater settee, quality Eastex suit, size 14, navy/mustard, item, £150. Tel: 871551 (Middleleaze) new, £60. Audio twin tape speakers, Parkinson Cowan cooker, brown, gas, £20. Child's record player, £10. Child's smoked glass id, 6 yrs old, buyer colpram as new, £25. 60's telephone seat, lects, £50. Teak writing desk, £20. Tel: £65. Child's knitting machine, £10. 487175 (Toothill) Lawn fork/hoe elec, £20. Tel: 725100

For Sale

For Sale

Calor gas fire, two burners, over half bottle of gas, good conditon, £20. Tel: 876196 (Grange Park) Gas fire, Valour Black Beauty, living flame effect, black, brass trim exc cond. £180. Tel: 851309 (W. B) Pine breakfast table plus two benches, seats four, £30. Two pine bedside tables/shelves, £10 each or £15 the pair.

Tel: 882559 (The Prinnels) Ikea double bed, cost £400, accept £100, first to see will buy. Tel: 881358 Mahogany effect wall unit, vgc, 51" wide, 511" high, £50 ono. Tel: 433629 Cordon Bleu mini kitchen, includes two hot plates, grill oven, six month old, £60. Tel: 725427 (Greenmeadow) Doors, six, white, standard size with handles, good condition, £5 each or £20 for six, collect. Tel: 433598 Sink unit 1.5 bowls by Askerite, 980 x 510mm, beige with matching mixer taps and accessories, 2 yrs old, as new, £80. Tel: 613000 Amstrad 8512 word processor with dot matrix printer, WP and other software inc. £75. Tel: 784365 (Watchfield) Phillips CD player, hi-fi separate, vgc & sound quality, £45. Tel: 878886 Viscount electronic organ, 2 manual allstops, foot pedals, rhythm accompaniment, vgc, fine present, £250. Tel: 872884 (Freshbrook) Saisho radio cassette player, mains/ battery, instructions, vgc, £10. Tel: 878605 (Freshbrook)

Amstrad PC1640 computer with Canon bubble jet printer, £85. Tel: 874349 Hi-fl unit, glass door, black sides, twin cassette record player on top plus radio, £20. Boys red & white bike for 6-7 yrold, £10. 3 piece conservatory suite, bamboo, floral cushions, £50. Tel: 881707 Flymo E300, 6 months old, £50.

Mothercare car seat with head cushion, £35. Pushchair with carrycot, £30.

Tel: 879083 (Grange Park) Assorted jigsaws, up to 1,000 pieces, all complete. Tel: 874034 (Wesflea) French language learning BBC course, 4 videos, 12 cassettes, 7 books, brand new, unwanted gift, cost over £150, sell for £70. Tel: 874977 Parrot cage in good condition, £15.

Tel: 615918 Exchange wanted 3 or 2 bed house in Swindon for 3 bed house in Chatham, Kent. Tel: 875096 Wanted Electric typewriter. Tel: 534368 Travel cot/playpen in good condition.

Tel: 726063 (Haydon Wick) Physics teacher to A 'Level standard for private tuition. Tel: 870902 Lineage for Services: 50p per word. Cheques to: West Swindon Publications

r

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads.

Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Tel: Name & Address not for publication) Tick if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web Site

The Link Magazine. December 1997 39

Stepping out for Well Woman Centre Swindon's Well Woman Centre celebrated its tenth year of operation at the Health Hydro with a wild west knees up line dance at the Link Centre on 8 November.

Nearly 300 people were put £1,000 for the centre. The money Womans Centre's grant comthrough their paces by the Mid- will come in very useful because pletely from next April. night Cowboys and raised over Swindon Council has cut the Well The centre holds information on The Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Councillor and Mrs Maurice Fanning a wide range of health related matput their best leg forward with Well Woman Centre chairwoman Ann Davis ters, provides a meeting place for a number of women's health groups, and centre worker Alison Dodd and runs medical support services.

Women who would like to know more about services should call 511064, or drop in at the Hydro on: Monday 5.30pm - 730pm Wednesday 12noon - 2.30pm Friday lOam - 12noon.

Celebrate multi-cultural Britain through the year Swindon Borough Council has once again produced a multi-faith wall chart calendar which recognises the major celebrations of Buddist, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and six other faiths throughout 1998.

The large brightly illustrated, full colour poster provides a wealth of fascinating information about different cultures that make up Britain today.

Copies cost £4 each; £3.50 for larger orders (over 5). Send cheques with order to Multi-Faith Calendar, Swindon Council Policy Unit, Euclid Street, Swindon.

TNVILN(I RI TI MI I II TA A Of MHDOH

DOfl

For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of school and holiday provision 7.45am - 630pm) Please call Shelagh Hanbury BEd (Hons) Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons)

Tel: (01793) 752600

Is your kitchen suffering from sagging doors and droopy drawers?

We can repair with new hinges and solio base drawers • Replacement door service (60 styles) • New worktops, over 80 textured or smooth styles • Additional cabinets in matching colours • complete kitchens in rigid or tlatpack • Full installation by local craftsmen To view in the comfort of your own home, call us for a tree quotation (01793) 871229

MA UP VOR I PPITITI 4 H D WIT TA WNTLI

Make tracks to the Locomotion, a Victorian Tea Room with traditional service and the ambience of yesteryear.

Located within the Milton Road Health Hydro it is easily accessed from the town centre

NOW OPEN

pJ) OWP4 Rk

Nursery & Pre-Prep Individual Care Individual learnin at Prior Park Preparatory School Cricklade, Wiltshire

Snack on our 'Waiting loom Fillers' or go full steam ahead on 'The City Line' dishes range from homemade pate with toast or crusty bread to cornfed breast of chicken stuffed with Asparagus and herbed soft cheese wrapped in bacon.

'Make The Connection' with afternoon tea or quench your thirst with our range of bottled beer.

Luncheon & Tea Rooms Health Hydro Milton Road, Town Centre Swindon SN1 5JA Telephone: (01793) 465648

There is something for everyone, all passengers welcome)

bob discount Customer Loyalty Card Available from 1.10.97

Westbury.

If you're looking for a brand new 2, 3, 4 or 5 bedroom home, pop into one of the four Westbury developments in the

wonderful surroundings of Wiltshire.

With prices ranging from £59,995 up to £1 85,000 you're assured of Westbury quality and value every time. Don't forget to ask about our special incentive packages too, such as help for first time buyers, or full value part exchange or our market leading 5 year fixed rate mortgagee! Call in to our sales centres which are open daily lOam to 5pm - and experience Westbury style today.

WESTBURY AT ABBEYMEADS, SWINDON i) 2, 3 AND 4 BEDROOM HOMES FROM £59,995 TO £120,000 TEL (0 1793) 700788 LINDEN PARK, COMMON PLATr, NR SWINDON 4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £109,500 TEL (0 1793) 882748 ST. MICHAELS COURT, LYNEHAM 3 AND ,4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £80,995 TO £1 10,000 TEL (0 1249) 890324 THE BEECHES, CEPEN PARK CHIPPENHAM 4 AND 5 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £109,500 TEL (01249) 446158 *Only 1 incentive per sole on selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. A typical Westbury street scene, photograph not necessoarily representative of exterior designs available.