December 2001 Swindon Link

No. 235 " .

.,rte +

,,

•

December 2001 • Circulation 22,000 ri

--

A Happy Christmas to all our readers ' from the positive nes force in Swindon •

Thinking of others Children at Shaw Ridge primary school enthusiastically filled shoe boxes with small toys, sweets, toiletries and clothing for the Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child. The 115 boxes will join thousands of others collected for distribution to less well off children across the world.

Ho/din g four of the

Bard in a Sack The Link magazine is sponsoring students at Greendown School to create the first ever Shakespeare Story Sack. Story on page 40.

many boxes. from left, Ashley Hutchinson, Chloe Dow. Matthew Walker, Joe Turner

Tree of memory A tree to honour the victims of the terrorist attacks in the USA on 11 September was planted near the West Swindon Centre lakes on Remembrance Sunday, 11 November.

Christmas service times at churches in West and

North Swindon

on page 46

There's a warm welcome from Mr All and his staff at "Purton's hidden Indian treasure"

Maha vcajcth Fully licenced Tandoori & Balti Restaurant

6 High Street, Purton Tel: 01793 770998/770253 Fax: 01793 770998

We go over the top of Swindon's northern development on page 8

Free takeaway delivery incl. West & North Swindon Open: 7 days a week, 5.30pm to midnight (incl Bank Holidays)

Thurs, Sat, Sun lunch: 12noon - 2.30pm The Maharajah

ee parking

Purton

LYO^drr)

From

NaYdon

Punon Road

Peat -,

Millicent

Nin

Back, Kate Trute. Asda counter,; ; . 1 , ger Caroline Johnston, deputy general manager Bill Graham, Cathy Smith, Mike Quinton. Front, Les, Sarah and Jack Trute, David Blythin

West es

Wick 8 W

k

y

Parcells

Elms

Fresfb o04, Grange Park T-11,01

www.themaharaiah.co.uk

2

The Link Magazine • December 2001

Link and Asda magic a birthday wish When Amanda Walker from Toothill announced she wanted to go fishing for her seventh birthday, her illusionist magician father Phil did not have a clue how to pull off the trick.

We published his appeal for help in the August Link, where he and Amanda were photographed with her picture of her dad, drawn as part of the Swindon Community Arts Fund Think Art festival.

Asda staff reader Lyn Bayliss pointed out Phil's problem to colleague Peter Lewis, an experienced fisherman who lives in Cricklade.

His bosses gave him a day off to make Amanda's dream come true and in early November, she, Phil and her older brother Daniel joined

Peter at Peatmoor Lagoon.

Phil said Amanda had been ecstatic when she heard that Peter had offered to take her fishing.

"She was hopping around for days waiting for the trip. I tried to explain that you have to have a lot of patience when you go fishing, but her response was, 'how can I be patient when I'm so excited."

Amanda had caught three tiddlers within half an hour of casting her line with help from Peter and was eagerly tossing maggots into

Someone Special Overseas?

Did you know that Mail Boxes Etc can pack, wrap and ship your Christmas packages anywhere in the world? ÂŁ5 OFF your next international parcel shipment when you bring this advertisement to MBE Offer ends 05.01.02. Restrictions

may apply

MERRY CHRIST AND A HAPPY NEW

MERRY XMAS

Fun in the West

to all our customers past, present and future, from the management and all the staff of HK 97

The BBC were out in force on 16 November, broadcasting Swindon's contribution to the Children in Need Appeal live from the West Swindon Centre.

Wiltshire Sound presenter Graham Seaman was inundated by cash from fund raising events, while shoppers purchased an exclusive Asda Pudsey Bear badge and a range of specially selected products dedicated to Children in Need. Talented Swindonians entertained customers on a stage set up in the mall.

Young shoppers with Pudsey ready to do their Christmas shopping with help from Westlea Guides

Closed Tuesday 25th to Thursday 27th December incl.

Reopens 28th as normal New Year's Eve closed 9pm

CHINESE ZODIAC CALENDA rO available trO W hile December I stOCk

Normal Opening Hours: (Open Bank Holidays) Monday - Saturday 12noon - 2pm (Sunday lunch closed) Monday - Sunday 5pm - 11 pm Unit B3, West Swindon District Centre

Tel: 886871

the water to attract a bigger catch, whilst Phil had to make sure she did not fall into the lagoon in her excitement.

Peter showed Amanda whip fishing techniques and how to handle fish once caught. "It's important to encourage young people into the sport and she quickly picked up everything I told her; she'll make a good fisher person."

Amanda did not mind handling the maggots or fish. "I used to have a pet fish, but it was the first time that I had one in my hand. I got used to the maggots crawling about and the fish seemed to be alright after taking the hook out of their mouths."

After her outing, Amanda said, "fishing is lovely, just like I thought it was going Peter with Amanda and Phil to be. I want to go again." wanted to go fishing, and we were Phil, whose successful magic amazed when Peter called in reand illusion business Hemlock Pro- sponse to the few lines in The Link. ductions was featured in the Octo- He's an excellent teacher and we'd ber Link, said Amanda was a very like to thank him and Asda for happy child. "I have absolutely no helping make Amanda's dream idea why she suddenly said she come true."

-2

The Link Magazine • December 2001

R'eligion & R'elationships in an uncertain world It's the second week of November, the autumnal colours are at their best, I've just helped lead a Remembrance Service at the Memorial Ground, the home of Bristol Rugby, we've just witnessed an abundance of fireworks on 5 November, the world at large continues to be evermore precarious, and here I am composing a Christmas message for the folk who read The Link!

Many of us will remember the educational 3 R's of our childhood with differing emotions —for me, as the years have unfolded, they have acquired a different connotation. They stand for R'osemary (my wife), R'ugby (will England overcome the mighty Australians at Twickenham tomorrow?); and R'eligion.

THE BATTERY SHOP Goldstar Services 46 Manchester Road

Swindon 01793 421509 www. thebatte ryshop.co. uk

Every battery you'll ever ,( need Car batteries from £22.99 Cordless phone batteries from £7.99 Golf trolley batteries from £43.99 Camcorder batteries from £26.99 Also batteries for: torches, pagers, remote controls, computers, key fobs, alarms, toys, electric toy cars, remote control model racing, cameras SLR/compact/digital

Battery refurbishment service for: cordless tools, laptops, camcorders, etc.

NEW: NI-MH AA1800MAH re-chargeable batteries for digital cameras X1111 Energlzei Af M VIJA A DURACEL L 7 VARTA

The first two Rs are a given and are a very special part of my life — the third however causes me much angst and discomfort. In fact, I can't stand the word anymore — it smacks of prejudice, hatred, division, and man-made ritual an d regulations.

The dread of young children

walking to school amidst a barrage of obscenity and vitriolic abuse; in many eyes, two world faiths vying for control and world domination; ethnic and religious factions fighting mercilessly for a homeland — all in the name of 'religion.'

But thankfully, a fourth 'R' has developed for me year by year and replaced religion - namely the word Relationship. And this is what Christmas is all about.

Each and every Christmas is a time to remember'Immanuel' -'God with us' - the Christ-child who came to dwell within the vulner-

Collect up your coins and fight the freeze All those European coins buried in drawers around the house are going to become worthless on 1 January with the launch of the Euro.

But Age Concern Swindon can cash them in and use the proceeds to help older people survive the

winter by providing blankets, warm clothing, heaters, hot meals, companionship and advice.

There are more winter deaths in Britain than any other European country.

Currency can be taken to the

Age Concern shop in Fleet Street, or Alliance & Leicester Bank, Halifax Bank or Travelcare shop.

ability, the uncertainty, and the brokenness of humanity. For that is what God, our Creator Father, wishes all the time — to make connections, to be in'relationship' with us, to be truly 'with us' in every circumstance.

Its so important that we have particular days and festivals planned each year so that we can focus on the essential 'truths' of our existence. And the Truth of Christmas is that 'God with us' came to live among us, to share in our earthly relationships and ultimately, to present Himself, the Person Jesus, as a sacrifice for all of us.

What is Christmas? It is about joy and laughter, the giving and receiving of gifts, the time with family and friends, the special occasions at the end of the year and for far too many, much loneliness and heartache.

But it can be so much more than that. Amidst the fear and unknown of the future, it is once again the beginning of living in hope and in the light of the One who came down from heaven - it's about making and continuing a R'elationship - with Him, with each other and within ourselves.

May this Christmas be a time of new and wonderful relationships for you, both human and divine.

Christingles in Peatmoor

Peter is leading a Christingle Service on 2 December, 4pm, at Peatmoor Community School.

Children and families are especially welcome to join in with this special service organised by SP4SP (Sunday People 4 Sparcells and Peatmoor). "It's a time of fellowship in the school hall where we will make the Christingles, followed by a time of worship and praise," said Peter.

'WE COME TO YOU' Free collection & delivery * Servicing & repairs BIKE * No call out charge

WE ALSO SELL ,t New & used cycles Christmas Club now started.

Small deposit reserves

We have two large barns full of top quality furnishing LOOSE' ENDS fabrics (often more than 50 metres) which are the ends of ranges.

Also wallpapers. All are from leading manufacturers at greatly reduced prices.

Why not come and see us?

Sheira Brookes. Giles Green, Brinkworth, Nr Chippenham.

Tel: 01666 510685 Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 4pm

It's Ch ri stmas - treat yourself St Tropez self tanning from £19.

Probably the best self tanner on the market.

Y4'Nail extensions - gels and tips, nail

art and airbrushing designs. New Bio Sculpture gel - kind to your own nails & permanent colour gels. .

B

odybliss Beauty &Aromatherapy

=^a

Swindon's laser hair removal °°Cy , clinic for men an d women ° Excellent rates

4 SGmwrap for that instant result £38

Monthly skin clinic Monday 5th December, appointments 4pm - 9pn: m

Collagen repair from £150.00

O Radient Health consultations - is

a Scleropathy leg thread vein removal - £125

this the most amazing diet ever?

From £25.

Skin resurfacing consultations advice and products from £35

01793 825525

Creche*, ample free parking *open late evenings and Saturdays

Stratton Leisure Centre, Grange D ri ve

3

4

The Link Magazine • December 2001

PARKING RAL SWINDON Annual long stay parking only £47.80 per month Contact Alison Kearney Tel: 01793-616333

Black Cat School of Motoring

Your local motoring school Ideal Christmas present Gift vouchers available Tel: Barry Hunter 700131 Approved Driving Instructor

50% OF

^

7 FIRST LESSON

oapammem of

7I

w

your partner in business

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

DUNCAN "SELF DRIVE HIRE Z/e4

4z

c4Z 'ea'42 &^4ary

Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

* Free home

estimates

Cars • Vans • Luton Tail-Lifts 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

No call out charge All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793 - 812738

Tel: 822193 Radio de-coding while you wait FREE PARKING Open daily 8.30am - 5.30pm Sundays 8.30am - 9.30am

Congratulations from afar A young film maker from Peatmoor who witnessed the terrorist atrocity in New York on 11 September decided not to return to the city in mid-November to present his film at the prestigious New York short comedy film festival, as reported in last month's

Link.

Civic Trust to identify the essence of Swindon At the same time that Swindon Borough Council is making its case for the town to be awarded city status, a new independent group has been established to work out what it is that makes Swindon tick as a community.

At the annual meeting of the New Mechanics Institute Preservation Trust at the end of September, Martin Bacon, Chief Executive of the national Civic Trust, spoke of the benefits of such an organisation, referring to the dissatisfaction of people around the country with the way their localities have changed and their frustration of their inability to in fl uence these changes.

Swindon is late in forming a civic trust; there are already nearly a thousand across the UK. Constitution and membership arrangements are being finalised by a steering committee. The trust would hope to be influential in the Local Strategic Partnership being developed in Swindon, story below. In the New Year, it hopes to organise a public presentation about the proposed replacement central library and arts complex near Regent Circus and Theatre Square.

To find out more about the Swindon Civic Trust, call John Monniot

Guljit Rana, who wrote a graphic eyewitness account in the October Link of the attack on the World Trade Centre, a few days after completing a ten week course at the acclaimed New York Film Academy, took the advice of family and friends in early November not to attend the film festival because of the anthrax scares in the USA. His end of course film was the only student work chosen for the festival. Guljit has heard by e mail that all of the 150 films shown were sold out. "It takes a bit of time for viewpoints to circulate, but the initial reaction is that my film was we ll received."

Currently studying for an Masters degree at Bristol University, Guljit hopes that there will be positive contacts arising from his work in New York. on 490936.

Role for groups in major decisions A forum of representatives from Swindon Council, the Swindon Federation of Community Organisations and Voluntary Action Swindon, has been formed to set up a Local Strategic Partnership to consider council plans for improvements in public services like housing and education and neighbourhood schemes.

Voluntary Action Swindon wants ensure that it is in touch with all groups in the town so that they can be made aware of the proposals and be involved in decision making.

The partnership forum next meets on 11 December, 6.30pm, at the Broadgreen Centre. For details, and to register your group with VAS, call Phil Baker on 538398.

the Link Magazine We have a number of properties throughout the Swindon area, providing accommodation

for a comfortable yet independent retirement.

Please call us for further details on 01672 515622

Published by West Swindon Publications

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e: linkmagazine@compuserve.com www.swindonlink.com

James Butcher Housing Association

Publisher/Editor: Editorial:

Roger Ogle Tel: (01793) 872282

TO BOOK ADVERTISING: Call Jenni Fowler on Providing accommodation throughout the central and south of England.

A charity, incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society No. 16602 R.

(01793)872531

Booking deadline: 3 Decemb er Printed by benhamgoodheadprint

Editorial copy date for January: 3 December Published: 1 January Copy for February: 7 January "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre

and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

The Link Magazine • December 2001

5

Why Swindon needs a directly elected Mayor Last month The Link pointed out that, whilst the control of Swindon Council was descending into chaos after the ruling Labour group resigned following a vote of no confidence, at the very same meeting the council cabinet voted to reject the idea of a directly elected mayor and continue the unsatisfac-

tory leader and cabinet system.

Martha Parry argues that the issue of having a mayor elected by all the people of the town has not been adequately explained or discussed and suggests the council take a radical step to engage its citizens in the way Swindon is run.

The most common reason people give for not voting is that their vote doesn't make any difference — 'the same people will get in, and they will do what they want; so why bother going to the polls?'

These people are not lazy. They are making a point that the democratic system does not involve them. With the recent carry on in the Swindon Council chamber and the inner circles of the cabinet, people have every reason to be even more confused and frustrated by the quality and unresponsiveness of their local council.

At present elections take place in wards across the town for candidates, usually linked with a political party. The party with the most councillors gets to run the council - except in Swindon none of the three parties had an overall majority in May 2000, and even now Labour refuses to work with the other parties, despite the widely expressed public view that all parties need to work together for the good of the town.

government in these places IS more responsive to local voters who are more engaged in the management of their town. In France the system puts even more power in the hands of the Mayor.

I originally thought of raising a petition which, if signed by 6,000 local electors could force a referendum on whether voters wish to directly elect a Mayor. However, a Home Office civil servant has told me that a petition would not be able to trigger a referendum in time for the local elections next May. If the petition was successful, it would mean only a referendum in May, then possibly elections to choose a Mayor in October. This would cause unnecessary disruption, given that the council year starts in May. But there is another way to achieve reform within a practical timeframe: the council itself could still decide to hold a referendum by post in January.

If the outcome was for change, then Mayoral candidates could

Recent changes driven by the

Local Government Act 2000 have streamlined the old committee system into a cabinet system, which makes the process of decision making even less open to the input of minority parties, let alone all voters.

So we had Sue Bates, who recently resigned as council leader, voted in by 576 people (voter turnout 15%) in Gorse Hill Ward, chosen as Labour Group leader by an unknown number of the 29 Labour councillors.

New leader of the council is Mike Bawden of the Conservative Party.

He was elected with 1,918 votes in Lawn and Old Town Ward (voter turnout 49%) and chosen leader of his party group by an unknown number of the 22 Conservative councillors.

Holding the balance on the council are 8 Liberal Democrat councillors, three from one ward, Freshbrook and Grange Park.

I hold no personal party allegiance, yet I wonder if Mike Bawden really has any clearer mandate to lead than Sue Bates

had? I am not being personal here, but making a point of principle.

The Local Government Act 2000 also required councils to consult their people about electing a Mayor to lead the authority. But how many people knew that this took place during the summer, let alone were involved? Nine per cent of people responded in a household survey.

As reported in last month's Link the consultation nationally was seriously flawed because the votes in favour of an elected Mayor were split between two options.

The Swindon Citizen's Panel (a group of 2,640 voters more in the know) were asked to comment and 56% chose one of the two forms of directly elected mayor on offer.

However the council decided to stay with the present party/ leader/cabinet system, chosen by 44% of the panel. Clearly there is still an unanswered question as to what Swindon people want.

Far from the berobed and chained ceremonial position at present, candidates for the modern mayor would stand for election across the whole town and campaign in all wards on a manifesto for the direction of the town.

They would be voted on by ALL the 120,000 registered voters, across Swindon's 22 wards. The

Members of the West Swindon Lions Club will be collecting for local charites at the West Swindon Centre with their Father Christmas float on Sundays 9th, 16th and 22nd December.

k4fl5e

s

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 2 2 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett,

A 2 Z Home Improvements All your needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics,

Painting, Decorating, Carpentry and much more Tel: (01793) 339671 Mobile: (07778) 207977

111 Pinehurst Road Swindon

RALEIGH

V

GIANT SARACE With 230 bikes on show, the choice is great - the price is right

winner would then have a four

year term in which to execute their manifesto and stand before the voters at the end of that period.

This is how it is done across Canada and the USA, and local

present themselves at next May's elections.

If you would like to see a directly elected mayor in Swindon even if you only agree that the voters should decide what they want - I hope this article encourages you to contact your local councillors calling for a postal referendum in January 2002.

£15

deposit reserves Your hike for Christina

SWINDON CYCLES SUPERSTORE 60A Beechcroft Road off Stratton Cross Roads,

f

19 Swindon Tel: 700105

^,^

Repairs and after sales service Workshop on the premises with trained staff Spares & Accessories `cam Open: Mon to Sat 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

T qRE E5iE

^'^

PENHILL

MWNMI MS BEE gM^C1NOFf

* WE GO E, LL HERE

`Z

6

The Link Magazine • December 2001

Geological fault and HGV aggravation to blame for house damage More light has been shed on the bumps in the night after the November Link reported that Ray Collins from Castlefield Close in Eastleaze can feel his house shake when heavy lorries travel along Whitehill Way in West Swindon.

His suspicion that some kind of fault line is to blame has been confirmed by Phil and Alison Barrett of neighbouring Goldsborough Close. Several houses in the street have suffered serious structural problems.

"Our house is basically falling down. It has 12mm cracks in it

from foundations to roof," said Phil. "A geological fault line running under Whitehill Way up towards Shaw Ridge was discovered when a test bore was put down a few years ago by an insurance company investigating a claim. " When they took the core out they found an oyster bed about thirty feet down; this area was probably a shoreline millions of years ago. Four other houses in our close have been underpinned, all are on the line of this fault."

Phil's insurers have engaged engineers to investigate the problem.

Toothill Village Centre Quality hair care in a friendly atmosphere

\ P"

"I work in the construction industry and know what is involved.

The land has been described as grade 2, only twenty percent fit for building on; they wouldn't build on it nowadays. There is a general knowledge of this problem but some people aren't prepared to admit to it."

Phil and Alison also share Ray's concern over heavy traffic on Whitehill Way. "The stretch between Five Ways roundabout and Langstone Way was recently resurfaced but the bump has reappeared," said Phil. "We're all concerned that drivers using the new Northern Orbital Road will increase the traffic on Whitehill Way rather than use Great Western Way.,, Phil and Alison raised the problem at the West area panel on 1

Alison points the damage in her home

November. Councillors asked officers to produce a report on Whitehill Way traffic.

Cabinet considers West danger spots

Tel: 422$24 Christmas opening times Fri 21st Dec 7.30am - 7pm Sat 22nd Dec 8am - 2pm Mon 24th Dec Sam - 3pm Fri 28th Dec 9am - 7pm Sat 29th Dec Sam - 2pm Normal opening from Wednesday 2nd January Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9am - 5pm.

Friday 8am - 7pm • Saturday 8am - 2 p m

SOUTHLEAZE CHRISTMAS TREES

SUesf Swindon's supplier THE WIDEST RANGE OF CHRISTMAS TREES AT THE BEST PRICES Ring or fax to reserve your tree or just visit • Free delivery Assortment of trimmings and spuds, firewood, stands etc.

Open daily 1 Aam - 7pm

Tel/Fax: 523134 Mead Way

Signposted off Mannington W°,, Roundabout, i7,,, Great Western Way (behind Comet) Grp

We "9d

" 9 °" + Far

Corton Crescent between Westlea and the West Swindon Centre and Idovers Drive in Toothill are two sites to be discussed at the annual review of local road safety issues by Swindon Council's cabinet on 28 November.

Eight months after the tragic from Kirkstall Close, were pictured death of Shaun Shirley on Corton in the June 2000 Link collecting Crescent, which is used by large names for a petition after a collinumbers of Westlea School chil- sion on the junction of Idovers and dren who walk to swimming at the Stokesay Drive. Although the peLink Centre every Thursday, the tition was presented to the full road features at the top of the list council meeting in May last year, for a controlled pedestrian cross- the site is only now being considing and traffic calming measures. ered by the road safety panel.

Bereaved mum Sandra Shirley West panel councillor Mary said, "I hope the council will take Martin said Stagecoach drivers the decision to protect all the chil- must be told to slow down and the dren who cross the road so that no area panel agreed to recommend other parents have to go through 20mph zones around all Swindon what we have."

Councillors on the West area panel on I November heard irate residents living off Idovers Drive in Toothil] demanding action to reduce speeds. Ruth Tomlinson and a group of neighbours accused the council of ignoring the safety of children who cross the road to Toothill School. "Drivers speed down Idovers Drive as if it is a race track," she told council- Visiting Corton Crescent, Sandra Shirley with lors. "There is an urgent Diane Johnson, whose son Ashley was killed on need for traffic calming Whitehi Il Way in September 1996 measures like there are inFreshbrookand Westlea. Idovers schools. Idovers Drive will be Drive is a rat run to the Great West- raised with the police to carry out ern Way; Toothill has been ig- a speed survey and put it forward nored." to the road safety review panel.

She said a serious accident inA council traffic management volving a speeding drunk driver spokesman said there had been in October, thankfully without fa- four serious accidents reported to talities, was the cause of an up- the police in three years. By comsurge in anger. parison the road is not as dangerMaria Park and Julie Lupton ous as others.

The Link Magazine • December 2001

New road could create dangers l

7

Canal bridge and underpass opens up new leisure routes

The assertion in the November Link that Akers Way wil become a quiet backwater with the opening of the Northern Orbital Road On 10 December the Mayor of Swindon coun David Cox unveils a (NOR), to be know as Thamesdown Drive, has been challenged by major new project which harks .iack over 170 years when he offione of our advertisers Dave Smith, who runs Garden Groomers. cially opens the bridge over a footpath and cycle way at Moredon He predicts an increase in heavy Road which will also become a route for the restored North Wilts goods traffic using Akers Way canal. which is going to present major Swindon Council principal landscape architect Russell Weymouth dangers to pedestrians. said the building of the NOR/Thamesdown Drive extension provided The new road is creating a byan opportunity to create major foot and cycle connections between the pass around the west and north of River Ray Parkway along the Old Town railway path to routes from the town," said Dave. The cars West Swindon to the proposed Moulden Hill country park near Taw taking people to and from Walmart Hill, and into the North Swindon pedestrian and cycle network. from all points in the south and Henry Smith, secretary of the Swindon branch of the Wilts and Berks south west via junction 16 of the Canal Trust, said the bridge is the first new structure on the North Wilts M4 is going to create traffic jams Canal since it opened in 1819 and congratulated Swindon Council for along Mead Way and Great Westtaking the opportunity. "It was a fantastic effort to negotiate funding ern Way through West Swindon. from the North Swindon Development Company. The culvert under But Akers Way will now bethe road will come an easy and more convenallow us to ient route for HGV drivers out of comment that traffic will also be achieve a long Cheney Manor industrial estate to reduced on Westfield Way, he said held dream of get to the A419, avoiding the Great there will be fewer vehicles in the restoring the Western Way to Gorse Hill and up short term as through traffic trans- canal from the Cricklade Road. fers to the NOR. Severn and "There are two primary schools However, although the North Thames to the along there and youngsters attend- Swindon District Centre will be Kennet and ing Hreod Parkway don't always served by up to 20 buses an hour, Avon." use the pedestrian bridge that peo- the number of cars from Haydon Henry Smith of ple campaigned for in the 1980s. I Wick and other parts of Swindon the canal trust really am worried that we will see passing along Westfield Way is with Kirk likely to be high. more casualties."

Goodchild, left, However, a weight limit on structure agent Swindon Council transport planner Steve Hunter said that Akers Westfield Way to the south of Asda for Nuttalls and Way would be kept under review. Wal-Mart will prevent HGV de- John Prothero, Responding to last month's Link liveries through Haydon Wick.

Nuttalls NOR site manager

Thamesdown Drive dualling to A419 Having completed the NOR/Thamesdown Drive extension between Lady Lane and Moredon Road, which was officially opened by the Mayor of Swindon coun David Cox on 22 November, civil engineering firm Nuttalls have been appointed to undertake a forty week contract to dual the already built section between Lady Lane and the Cricklade Road /A419.

The three existing roundabouts will be replaced by traffic light controlled junctions. At junction 1, where Thamesdown Drive meets Cricklade Road and the A419, a highly sophisticated traffic management system will be used to filter vehicles.

Asda Wal-Mart ready for the rush Eight hundred people have been appointed, thousands of metres of shelf space have been filled and over 50 checkouts are ready to welcome millions of customers to the largest Asda Wal-Mart in Britain at the North Swindon District Centre which opens on 26 November.

Just afew of the staff getting the store ready on 13 November

ill!

_____

^' I

P

5-he

Chinese (Expe r.. cnce.

MEAD WAY, PEATMOOR,

EAT AS MUCH AS YOU LIKE Sunday to Thursday: £14.80pp, £10/child Fridays: £16.80pp, £10/child Over 100 meals to choose from, including Aromatic Crispy Duck and King Prawn dishes (10% service charge will be added to the bill. Offer not available on Saturdays or in December)

CHRISTMAS DINNER PARTIES with or without disco and karaoke From 30th November to 24th December Prices from £13.50pp Ask for details of the above and our regular disco karaoke

TAKEAWAY SPECIAL OFFER Aromatic crispy duck (quarter) Vegetarian spring rolls Sweet & sour chicken HK style Shredded chilli beef

Stir fired mixed vegetables Egg fried rice Prawn crackers Was £24. Now set price for all seven items £16.50 Delivery service available

evenings

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

, .w

I ll

to

The Link Magazine • December 2001

9

The next stage of Swindon's development With the opening of the Northern Orbital Road/Thamesdown Drive extension by the Mayor of Swindon councillor David Cox on 22 November, the scene is set for the arrival of the first people at Priory Vale, a new development that is likely to set national standards in urban development. will be built less densely and will Although Priory Vale, to the proach in the way areas are devel- ing countryside. north of Hayden Wick, Woodhall oped. According to Swindon BorAn urban core area will have be arranged around open spaces, Park and Taw Hill, will contain ough Council senior planner Mar- mostly terraced and three storey as in a village.

The first homes will be ready for some 5,500 houses, only 390 acres tin Trewhella, Priory Vale is going buildings, typical of town living. of its 640 acres will be for residen- to look quite different to anything The commercial centre will be dif- occupation in the Spring. Major ferent to those found in West Swin- land holder Crest Nicholson has tial use. Forty five acres have been to be found in Swindon.

"Better Places to Live is a chal- don and Abbey Meads. Taking on already broken ground on site in allowed for the development of schools and sports pitches, and 16 lenge to be innovative in the way the appearance of small country an area called Braydon Mead. An acres of meadowland is a site of roads are laid out and the type of towns such as Cricklade, shops, unusual feature will be a mill architecture employed. Street offices and community buildings house, to be used initially as the special scientific interest (SSSI).

An impressive 82 acres will be scenes will be more interesting and such as the church will be inter- Crest's marketing suite which is due to open in the Spring. open space providing wildlife cor- there will be more landmark build- spersed with houses.

Sixteenth century in appearance, ings at key points to give a differA second area will be more forridors across the development. mal in its design, with larger homes complete with water wheel and New government planning ent feel to the development."

Priory Vale will have three dis- arranged in a symmetrical fashion approach over a bridge, the integuidelines set out in the urban rior will be contemporary. The surdesign document Better Places to tinct'character areas' to reflect the along long boulevards.

The third area will have a semi- rounding streets will include four Live calls for house builders and urban nature of the development local authorities to take a new ap- and also its closeness to surround- rural appearance, where houses show homes, typical of the planned development.

Also featured is a village square, or centre, which will provide for Some 120 people visited an exhibition organised by Swindon Council planners in late October which set everyday shopping needs. The out the detailed plans for Middleclover, the area to the south of the Northern Orbital Road (NOR)/ design will promote a feeling of Thamesdown Drive extension, which is part of the overall Priory Vale development. community like that of a traditional This area will have two thouvillage. Ultimately, the mill house sand of the 5,500 homes to be built will he converted into apartments. across this last area of the North Other developers include Swindon development.

Wimpey, Westbury, Bryant Traffic movement, provision of Taywood, McLeans, and locally schools and community facilities based company J S Bloor. were the issues most people raised.

The Northern Orbital Road/ Mike Gregory of Cloverlands Thamesdown Drive extension prowas concerned that the NOR will vides access to all parts of the denot relieve traffic pressure in resivelopment. The finished commudential areas, given the road acnity is likely to be ten years in the cess into Middleclover off Westmaking. During this time, develfield Way, next to Primrose Close. opers hope to give Priory Vale a Kay Wheeler from Blunsdonwas true sense of place in Swindon. unhappy that few facilities will be Paul Springgay, Priory Vale found there and residents will have project manager believes the area to travel to the northern education will become nationally recognised campus, the district centre, Taw for the quality of design. "The comHill or to other parts of Swindon. Council officers with Abbey Meads residents, from left Ashley Border, mitment shown by the North SwinDavid McGill from Osterley principal planning officer Vivienne O'Connell, landscape officer David don Development Company, and Road was very concerned that Evans, transport development control officer Imelda Cuff, Tony and Janet Swindon Borough Council to BetHayden End Lane retains its rural Storrer, Tony Carter. Back, Jeff Key ter Places to Live will make Priory character, a view echoed by Vale a landmark project for innoHaydon Wick parish council. "The ner at Swindon Council, said that ment before the overall structure vative urban design and commulane is unusual and should not be the public had expressed a range plan is put to the council's plan- nity living and could be regarded turned into another housing estate of important points which would ning committee. Detailed planning as a benchmark for the future deaccess road." be considered in detail by the de- applications for housing areas will sign of large urban expansion Martin Trewhella, senior plan- velopers and the planning depart- be judged against this plan. projects."

Development area on show

10 The Link Magazine • December 200 1

"We're still here!"

Whilst all seems to be new and growing at mega-speed in North Swindon, some existing businesses are coming under pressure and are having to put up with rumours of closure.

Alan and Valerie Trotman at The Safeway store in Thames Grange Farm Nurseries on Haydon Avenue is bracing itself. A ChristEnd Lane right, are still very much mas 'loyalty' scheme has been in business and are looking for- launched which Safeway HQ conward to a very busy Christmas. "I fi rmed is limited to a few stores really am surprised by the rumours nationwide and, locally, is a reI hear," said Valerie. "Grange Farm sponse to the new Asda Wal-Mart.

Nurseries has been in business Floor manager Mark Ogborne since 1972 and we're looking for- sees no problem long term. "It is ward to celebrating our thirtieth not going to affect the store", he anniversary next year. claimed.

I mportantly, the post office and "So, come and see us for your Christmas trees, gifts and National pharmacy in Safeway should be Garden Gift Tokens." unaffected.

• Full range of Quality Plants & Trees • Self contained Water Features • Ornamental Stoneware & Bird Baths • Rockery Stone and Paving • Wooden Garden Furniture ;^t<; • Friendly, Expert Advice

N

V

" V

GLAZED CERAMIC P(

North GPs move into new bigger home by Christmas Doctors and staff at Taw Hill Surgery are getting ready to shed their first temporary surgery and move into a second, larger temporary building, situated on the edge of the proposed Taw Hill primary school site, close to where the village centre is to be built.

The surgery will be much bigger than the present facility to accommodate the rapid growth in patient numbers and the predicted rise over the next few years as people arrive in Priory Vale. Earlier in the year Dr Helen Teare joined founder GPs Dr June Morris and Dr Peter Crouch, who set up the practice two years ago.

Also located within the building will be a new facility for Taw Hill, a church and hall which will be used for services, health related groups and community meetings.

Dr Crouch said he was very excited about the expansion of the facilities in Taw Hill. "The opening of the new surgery is an excellent step forward in providing high quality health care, and we are very pleased to be working with the church and the local residents to ensure there is a place for people to meet and build a thriving community."

Read the latest developments at www.tawhillsurgery.com Looking forward to being in full operation by Christmas at the Taw Hill Medical and Worship Centre, from left, practice manager Andrew Morgan, practice sister Catherine Campbell, Lesley Farrell the secretary for the Bristol Diocese, Dr Peter Crouch

Ill ILILI'

PRICE

CHRISTMAS TREES Gardening Gifts National Garden Gift Tokens

111/0 GI

Ta

r.

•I•}1

7 :{• :1•

0

26 No

N

o

V . assic Meal for Two

Superior Meal for Two

Prawn crackers Sesame chicken on toast Mini veg spring rolls (6) Sweet & sour chicken Hong Kong style Beef with mushrooms in black bean sauce Satay roast pork \ Egg fried rice Fortune cookies o/

Quarter aromatic crispy duck & prawn crackers Crispy seaweed Tiger prawns wrapped in filo Satay ckicken on skewers Deep fried shredded chilli beef Chicken with green peppers in black bean sauce

£16.88

7

Special fried rice

Fortune cookies Complementary bottle of wine or Coke I, upon ordering the Superior Meal

£20.88 DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILAQLJ

The Link Magazine • December 2001 11

MP cuts ribbons on either side of Gainsborough Way South Swindon MP Julia Drown visited Freshbrook twice in the last month to perform ceremonies at projects within a few hundred yards of each other.

On 26 October, she unveiled enlarged offices for the Guinness Trust at Prince Rupert Court in Lanhydrock Close, Gainsborough Way. One of the largest housing associations in the country, the trust will soon manage 240 properties in the Swindon area.

A few days later on 5 November, Julia returned to the West Swndon Family Project to view and offically unveil the enlarged prop-

erty at 15 Gainsborough Way. The project, which celebrates its twentieth anniversary next year, has been based at 'the house' as it is known to users since 1984.

Funded by social services and from grant aid such as the lottery, it is now run entirely by a volunteer committee made of West Swindon residents.

Julia congratulated the project on its expansion. "Bringing up chil-

Julia officially relaunches 'the house' with project chairman George McGill, centre, and A1 t/ ,1 Cardis, right, rnanagementcommittee members and users

dren is not easy; it's not something you learn at school or college. The support that family projects give is invaluable to parents and others in the community who need information and advice." Julia Drown with Rev Alistair Stevenson, chairman of The ground the Guinness Trust housing committee floor has been expanded by enclosing the space managing the family project and next to the house and turning the we can now reach out to even more garage into a soft play room and a people of all ages."

For details of activities, groups counselling room, and constructing a large creche room to the rear. and courses at the West Swindon Full ground floor access for disa- Family Project, call 871303. bled users has been provided.

Project worker Alyson Cardis MP report back said the larger floor area would allow a growth in the services of- Swindon South MP Julia Drown fered. "We are now able to accom- is holding one of her regular remodate several groups at the same port back meetings on Friday 30 time, as well provide better child November, 7pm, Toothill Comcare whilst adults are on a course munity Centre.

She will speak about activities upstairs."

Project chairman George McGill in Parliament and the constituency, was confident about the future of and take questions. Everybody livthe project. "There is a thriving ing in the South Swindon constituband of volunteers involved in ency is welcome to attend.

Est. 1981

Largest stockists of top quality branded products in the South West of England

YOUR LOCAL GARAGE

Ucni.rI'

ASSURED

00U11 SF'LC;IALIt♦ Up and Over, Roller & Sectional Garage Doors • Remote Operation Doors • 2 Year Guarantee • Maintenance Free Doors • Superb Security Locking Facilities • Highly trained fitters • Full Back-up services

Telephone: 01793 513796 email: swirldondoorservices@btinternet.com Maxwell House Maxwell Street Swindon SN1 50R

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

12 The Link Magazine • December 2001

Come to

A New Look for the New Year

WEAR IT WELL

Swindon s one and only independent ladies clothes & accessories shop.

to buy or sell your PARTY WEAR Ladies Dress Agency, Est. 10 years

Stockists of European designs. Sizes from 8 to 22.

Top trendy/classic High street/ designer labels Oasis, Morgan, Next

Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves

J!^^^,

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 Street, Old Town, Swindon • Tel: (01793) 527364

JUVALS

Visit soon, you don't know what you've been missing!

26 Wood Street Old Town Swindon Tel: 513196

59 North Street, (off Eastcott Rd), Old Town, Swindon. Tel: 695223

Open: Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat IOam - 4.30pm

[The Croft Gallery 22 Devizes Road Old Town, Swindon Tel: 615821 www.thecroftgallery.co.uk • Original paintings • Limited editions • Framing specialists • Picture restoration 10% discount on framing on production of this advertisement

Pets Kitchen -^ Victoria Hill, Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 527057 Open Monday to Saturday, 9am - 5.30pm • Full range of diets (Eukanuba, Hills, Beta, Repnor, etc) • All medical, baskets, beds, leads, collars & grooming • Vast selection of cages and homes for all • 20 years experience

Ssrgco Kits

D & L Blinds

Local free delivery

91 Victoria Road, Old Town

We have birds, rabbits, guinea pigs. hamsters, chinchillas. Also cold & tropical & fish and aquaria supplies

01793 421500 Clothing for children School wear - Toys

Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

Offers end Saturday 19 January 2002 L— — — — — — — — J

Top quality children's wear and school uniforms at low prices

throughout the year. A$ I,

KOBE PEARLS purchased especially for Deacons by our Japanese pearl buyer, and imported directly.

o

Lots of party clothing &Christmas toys

Choose from a wide range

Monday Closed 9.30am - 4.30pm Saturday 1 Oam - 4.30pm

Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free

0

Stockist for Gait & Orchard Toys

of fabrics from the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

.J

/ma^f

eti

iH

\

cWG ?

LGl4 ^'^l^GG

A

,PERFECT GIFT

TRADITIONAL BEDS A superb selection of necklets, brooches, earrings, pendants and rings

•

•

•DEACONS Deacon & Son (Swindon) Ltd. The Jewellers. Est 1848.

11 - 15 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon Telephone: 522072/527530 42 High Street, Wootton Bassett Telephone: 852985 Christmas opening hours Please ring store for details

ANTIQLISS ALL PINS

A wide range of beds, bases, mattresses, special sizes & four posters Delivery & erection service Pine furniture, old lace, linen and costume jewellery.

Open loam till 5.30pm (Monday 4pm) Closed Wednesday and Sunday

1 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 520259 ,.

^

The Link Magazine • December 2001 13 93 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon • Tel/Fax: 01793 541550

7

!:\ 7

Enchanting Gifts for Christmas Plus fancy dress, collectables, toys, books, decorations .... and lots more Make your child's dream come true with a Party at Tinkerbells. Call or details.

Fairy

Visit the oldest part of Swi. for a wide variety of unust and individual shops.

It's the place to go for interesting gifts designer clothing F quality furnishings

Be ready to be surprised.

OLD TOWN HARDWARE THE NEW BUSINESS WITH THE OLD LIMMEX REPUTATION 14 Wood Street Old Town, Swindon

I'Dondidlon I IIji Cori Trying to find that `something different'?

Then pay us a call Gifts, toys and jewellery to suit every budget

Ois'c O

/

dO//r/&c

o

Now open on Sundays until Christmas

10 Wood Street Old Town Tel: 511099

The finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking & South East Asian Cuisine -

BLAYLOCKS

i

SLIPPERS

II -

The ideal gift An extensive range for all the family Bath Road Corner Old Town. Tel: 534271

Menu available on request Fully Licensed

53 Devizes Road Swindon Tel: (01793) 521515

Tel: (01793) 433331

THE COMPLETE HOUSE FURNISHERS IN ONE SHOP

I"II.I.II

I uIt1 IsI-Ik\NT

Established since 1843 Parker Knoll

Q3herbeme

slamber1and

• Dining Room Furniture • Suites & Sofas • Chairs & Recliners • Specialist Recliners • Beds & Bedroom Furniture • Occasional Furniture • Carpets & Flooring

Open 6 days a week - Free delivery

14 The Link Magazine • December 2001

ASHINGTON HOUSE SURGERY Ashington Way, Westlea, Swindon Wishes you a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year from all the doctors and staff f

Queen Elizabeth Drive, Swindon SN25 1WL

We wish all our patients and friends a very Merry Christmas Reception open Monday to Friday lam - 6.30pm

Tel: 01793 709500 E-mail: enquiries@tawhillsurgery.com www.tawhillsurgery.com New patients a lways welcome

Tel: 01793 - 614840 VI

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic Shaw Village Centre

e

IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM:

3 gip

John & Brigitte Wilkinson and all the staff wish their patients a

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Ramleaze House, Shaw Village Centre Telephone 877422

SEASONS GREETI

yS

FROM DOCTORS, DENTISTS, PHARMACIES & CHIROPRACTORS

2

SERVING WEST AND NORTH SWINDON

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

Free new patient consultation

COOPERS CHEMIST

until 31st January

WEST SWINDON CENTRE Fine fragrances, toiletries, ear piercing etc.

For further details contact:

Tel: 872033 Open 7 days a week Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm, Sat 9am - 6pm, Sun 1 Oam - 3pm

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. SIMON BODLEY BSc. D.C.

FRESHBROOK__

APS, developing & printing One free 35mm 24 exp film with every 35mm roll developed on the premises

0 Backache, Leg pain O Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain O Headache & Migraine 0 Sciatica 0 Sports Injury O Arthritis 0 Whiplash

DENT.•\[_ PRACTICE -._

SEASONS GREETINGS

from Brendon Ball BDS, Linda Swift BDS and all the staff at Freshbrook Dental Practice Freshbrook Village Centre, Freshbrook, Swindon Tel: (01793) 873044

PHOENIX SURGERY Incorporating The Link Surgery Dunwich Drive,Toothill Village Centre

Tel: (01793) 887801 Fax: (01793) 882298 Opening times Mon, Tues, Fri: 7.30am - 8.30pm Wed: 8.30am - 8pm Thurs: 8.30am - 7.30pm Sat: 8.30am - Ipm Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors

Rid g e

Green

Medical

C e n t r e

°` 0 o "O

Ramleaze Drive, Shaw, West Swindon

A Merry Christmas from Dr Peter Swinyard, Dr Robert Forrester and all at Phoenix Surgery

Tel: (01793) 874894 Merry Christmas to all our patients from Dr D. Nowotzin, Dr A. Dwivedi, Dr R. Williams, and all the staff

SerVut-1 West uu CentraG Swindofv

New patients welcome (01793) 600440

Surgery Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 8.30am-12.30pm; 2pm-6pm hours Thurs 8.30am - 12.30pm NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

15

Santa Specials at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway

7 THE LINK

3turdays and Sundays &9,15&16, ? & 23 December. M Lam - 4pm

E'S GUIDE T6 WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane

How the secrets were broken If you were dissatisfied with the recent film Enigma, starring Kate Winslet, and angered by Hollywood's historical rewrite last year of how the ultimate Nazi secret code was cracked by the Americans in U-571, before they had even entered World War II, here is a unique opportunity to discover more about how British ingenuity managed to save hundreds of thousands of lives.

The story of the codebreakers at Bletchley Park has been one of the last to be told. There, British scientists, mathematicians and eccentrics unravelled German military and naval communications encoded by the incredibly complicated Enigma machine.

Dr Mark Baldwin, who has made a detailed study of Enigma, will give an entertaining and instructive talk Codebreakers - the Story of Enigma on 6 December at the Swindon Arts Centre. using an impressive collection of slides and a hands-on demonstration of one of the very few working Enigma machines in existence.

Tickets £10, are available from the box office on 614837.

Authentic Indian cuisine at Abbey Meads newest restaurant.

A

St Andrews Ridge Centre

B ME. „ IN

DIAN

Salzgitter Drive (next to The Jovial Monk) Tel: 700823/700860 ® Telephone orders welcome 0 Credit cards accepted over the telephone 0 Parties catered for * Free bottle of house wine for every table of four

Tree planting time Don the wellies, wrap up warm and take to the tip for the Great Western Community Forest Christmas tree plant on Sunday 2 December.

Thousands of saplings need to

be planted at Shaw Forest Park, off Mead Way in West Swindon.

There will also be entertainers, a chance to make bird boxes ready

for next Spring and Santa has been invited to take a break from parcel wrapping and lend a hand.

(Approx. 3 miles NW of Swindon, on the B4553 west of the A41

Lakeside Brasserie Cafe Bar Now o ff ering Sunday roast

from £5.99 (advance booking recommended)

Bookings now being taken for that smaller

Go to www.forestweb.org.uk for details or see the advertisement on page 17.

Source of secrets. Millions of code permutations could be created with the Enigma machine until the British reverse engineered signals using brain power and a giant computer

Win a family ticket to the London International Boat Show, 3 -13 January at our web site www.swindonlink.com

Friends form to back Arts Centre into the future The Swindon Arts Centre in Devizes Road closes for five months in June next year for a major £650,000 improvement which includes a new entrance and bar areas, better access for the disabled, improved toilets and backstage facilities.

As ever, a lot more money is required: £31,000 is needed to refurbish the auditorium seating and redecorate the theatre.

The Friends of the Arts Centre will be launched on Monday 10 December, 7.30pm, to discuss how people can be more involved and perhaps become the driving force for fundraising through the lottery and local corporate sponsors.

For details, call Jill Tomalin on 466565.

PEATMOOR VILLAGE CENTRE (next to Bright Horizons Nursery) Open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.

Saturday and Sunday 1 Oam to 4pm

CINDERELLq NOW BOOKING

{.a

°'

-

Christmas lunch party Further details on our everyday menu on 887799/882233

Me _ In >i a1 UgtSit, T ,.

{nt

`f

rr

fnma yP

nr

^n^1^ 1^'yi\^ s^^so.ea or s.i^:e^ys ^^

* Takeaway service - 15%

tla Wal-M 12 eworks _-^ 7 F

discount on collections c Free home delivery Open Monday to Sunday 5pm - midnight Ample free parking

North Swindon District Centre Attractions from 6pm.

Fireworks 8pm

ExtravaganzctF Monday 3 December

I

Friday 14th December until Saturday 12th January at last year's prices: £12.50 & £13.50. Concessions available

WYVERN THEATRE THEATRE SQUARE, SWINDON

Box OFFICE:

(01793) 524481

Swmnon CLFARCHA NEL

16

Swindon Wide Christmas through the ages at Lydiard House

Locally grown Christmas trees

Once again Lydiard House will be full of festive cheer and wonderful Christmas decorations courtesy of Lackham College floristry students whose floral decorating skills transform the state rooms every year.

Each room will reflect a different period from 1740 to 1940, including the glamorous peacock feather arrangements favoured in Regency ti mes and a more austere wartime look, making full use of all the natural greenery and berries in the park.

There are plenty of delightful stocking fillers in the gift shop and the Forest Cafe in the park offers a welcome steaming drink and hot mince pies. Admission to the house: £1.40, concessions 70p.

Lydiard's decoration will be on show from 1 to 31 December. The house closes at 4pm in the winter.

from £5.50 Enterprise Works, Gipsy Lane, Swindon

Also at Lydiard Park

Visitor Centre on Sunday 2nd & 9th December

Oam - 3pm Swindon ices

Serv

Win tickets to Cinderella

Enterprise Works

sw^^oo^

Tel: 616288

Preparations for Cinderella, one of the most glittering and magical pantomimes in this uniquely British performance art, are underway at I the Wyvern ready for the first nigh t on 14 December Running until 12 January, the stars

HERON CLUB CHILDCARE

this year are Grange Hill actress Emma Willis, right, and Bernie Clifton. one of the nation's zaniest visual comedians. Also ap-

Do you need child care between 3.00pm & 6.00pm during term time?

Do you have a problem with child care in the school holidays?

The Heron Club at Peatmoor Community Primary School has places available in its After School and Holiday Club for 4-11 year olds Please telephone Mrs Panting for further details on (01793) 887473 Competitive hourly rates

pearing are Rod, Jane and Freddy. Paul Mead and Swindon's Pollyann Tanner with the Tanwood Dancers.

Book now by calling 524481.

Win a family ticket for two adults and two children by telling us which TV channel Grange Hill is on.

Send your entries to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 12 December.

FIRST CHOICE FOR CARPETS We can supply and fit..

CARPET VINYL COIR SISAL SEAGRASS TILES LAMINATE FLOORING In fact any type of flooring

FREE FITTING on all orders over £1(ln excluding wood laminates

FREE MEASURING '8 [

(

^frr' ^,

Au s'

Superglide.

For

Bedrooms —Sliding door wardrobes

Top quality at affordable

prices.

urvey/estimate call 01793 leshill, `Vn Highworth, Wilts.

j

861584

Swindon Wide Discover Swindon's treasures Lydiard House and St Mary's Church next door, are under recognised as two of the nation's most impressive heritage buildings, according to Simon Jervis, chairman of the Furniture History Society and director of the National Trust Historic Buildings Department.

Make a lasting,

c^^P^

W

ESr^^'2

living contribution 1

to the future

un it' F°a

4

>r-

Sir William Benyon. chairman. The Ernest Cook Trust, with trustees and cabinet maker restorer Julian Howard, centre, Sarah Finch-Crisp, second from right, Simon Jervis, chairman of the Furniture History Society and director of the National Trust Historic Buildings Department Speaking at a reception on 22 October to mark the Treasure Forever Conservation Programme at Lydiard House and the restoration and return of the Socchi desk. Mr Jervis said that whilst Swindon has an image problem. Lydiard House is a shining example of a heritage asset that enhances the history and culture of the town.

The Socchi desk, a mechanical table built by Italian craftsman Giovanni Socchi in the 1830s is the only example in Britain. and one of only five in the world. Purchased in the early 20th Century

by Mr Ernest Cook, a member of the Cook travel company family, who bequested it to Lydiard House via the National Art Collections Fund. The desk was first displayed when Swindon Corporation reopened the house in 1955.

The restoration to its original stunning back and gold finish was funded entirely by The Ernest Cook Trust. Chairman Sir William Benyon said Mr Cook would have taken enormous pleasure in seeing his complicated and rare piece of furniture beautifully restored in such excellent surroundings. "One can imagine 18th Century ladies sitting at the desk writing their let-

1 940s and early 1950s was achieved despite rationing and with the support of Government agencies who recognised the exceptional quality of the place. The talents and skills of local people who worked here is one reason why the house or Lydiard Mansion as many still call it, belongs to Swindon people every bit as it once did to the St John family."

She added that work to trace and bring home the original Lydiard furnishings such as antiques. famil y curios, royal manuscripts and paintings dating back to Queen Elizabeth I has continued over fifty years.

A new leaflet explaining how donations can be made through

im

Treasure Forever is available at

Lydiard House, or call Sarah FinchCrisp on 770401 for details.

Sunday 2nd December 2001 1 Oam to 3pm, Shaw Forest Park, West Swindon Sponsored by

SwinDon BOROUGH COUl1C1L

ters."

Keeper of the house Sarah Finch-Crisp said the Treasure Forever programme is a continuation of the great post war restoration programme which followed Swindon Corporation's purchase of Lydiard Park during World War II. "The brave and inspirational move on the part of the council undoubtedly saved Lydiard House from demolition. Restoration of the house by the corporation's Direct Labour Organisation in the late

Swindon is said to be in the lead to become the headquarters for the National Trust when it moves out of London. The Link suggests it buy Sir Norman Foster's Renault building in Westlea which is available.

The National

row

rCt

Pa rt nership

'

The Countryside Agency

Forestry Commisson i

Vale

0 of white Horse

18

Specialists in web design From a single page website to an online store, we have packages to suit all budgets.

Friendly, personal service from a local company that knows how to help your business make an impression on the internet Call Clare on 01 793 729815 to discuss your requirements clare@krytensystems.com www.krytensystems.com

Swindon Wide Local history revealed in two books Christ Church in Old Town, one of Swindon's historic landmarks, celebrated its 1 50th anniversary in November with a special service and the launch of a book The Old Lady on the Hill.

Written by church member and local historian Brian Bridgeman and Teresa Squires, the book digs deep into the social fabric of Swindon's development over the last century and a half, and reveals much that others might like to have kept unsaid.

Built on land by the Goddard family on a prominant site that can be seen from many parts of the town, Christ Church provided a spiritual home for the people living

Shaw Village Centre Olga Hladusz, who worked at Duncan's two years ago, has bought the business and with over ten years experience in hairdressin ,, feels she is ready for the challenge.

t,

Olga says "I remember when worked here previously, there was a good sense of community spirit and I am happy to be back at Shaw."

To book an appointment, call 814825

opening times: Tuesdays & Wednesdays: gam to 6pm Thursdays & Fridays: 9am to 7pm Saturdays: 8.30am to 3.30pm

Swindon's Art, Craft & Picture Framing Outlet A wide range of products for the artist, student, crafter & DIY picture framer

•

DMC Needlework Main Agent

All year round low prices guaranteed Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ Tel/Fax (01793) 513069 enquiries@facswindon.co.uk

Hours of opening Mon/Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm

Free parking Please phone for directions

LOOKING FOR INDIVIDUALITY?

meter 5albraith Handbuilt fitted bedrooms ♦ Individual handbuilt finish on all bedrooms ♦ Manufactured individually to customer requirements ♦ Choose from over 40 different finishes - hardwood, pine sprayed and vinyl wrapped

Tel: 01793 526335

an excellent finish and personal service guaranteed, all at an

in the original Swindon settlement on the hill. During the 1800s the church was also the source of much tittle-tattle amongst the Victorian residents as they observed with growing alarm the womanising and financial irregularities by their vicar.

What today's tabloid newspapers would have made of Swindon's reputation then can only be imagined.

"We tried to dig deep into the past to bring out the human stories associated with Christ Church and give a wider picture of the town as it developed," said Brian. "Life expectancy of the average Swindonian in 1851 was less than thirty years, animal blood ran down Wood Street and Newport Street from the slaughterhouses there and bombs fell nearby during World War II. The service to mark the tragic events of 11 September 2001 in New York is also mentioned."

The Old Lady on the Hill gives detailed descriptions of the historic features within the church, with photographs of stained glass windows and monuments, as well as pictures of the people involved and significant events.

Sale proceeds will go towards a £1.5 million restoration appeal

SWINDQN EVENTS. PEOPLE AND PLACES LAST 100 YEARS ovER Ti

-{ r

-'' at ;

:

r ,

;,

*

Authors Brian Bridgeman and Teresa Squires launched on 28 November. Copies at £7.95 can be obtained from the parish office at 36 Cricklade Street. tel: 533832; Victoria Bookshop in Wood Street; Bath Road Museum; Lydiard House and Swindon Information Centre. www.christchurchswindon.co.uk

Swindon in pictures: _`z A Century of Swindon has been republished in paperback and isavailable from WH Smith at £9.99.

Written by members of the Swindon Society, including Brian Bridgeman, the book contains dozens of fascinating photographs showing the development of the town during the last century

JK drum maestros in town Two of Britain's top percussionists take a break from a world tour to stop

by Swindon on Sunday 16 December to give a master class at New College.

Jamiroquai drummer Derrick McKenzie, below, and percussionist Sola Akinbola, right, are the UKs funkiest percussion duo says Paul Ashman, who is organising the event with business partner Steve Jobbins. "These two guys really are the best in their field; it's fantastic that they've agreed to come to Swindon.

Jamiroquai have just released their latest CD and have been touring Britain before going off to Europe and Japan. The r workshop is going to be something special."

Tickets for the Jamiroquai Rhythm Section Live cost £10 and are available from Paul Ashman on 770489 or Steve Jobbins on 07889 201815.

Advertising feature

New College moves forward with new base in West Swindon The move to the new premises at Shaw Village Centre in October for the New College team at Fast Forward Training and Development has been a phenomenal success - and the year ahead is looking even better. designed for 2002, one " We aim to provide of which the team are a relaxed environment particularly excited which is easy to learn about. The 'Door Superin. Judging by the posivisors' course has been tive feedback from our approved by Swindon customers, I think we Borough Council which have achieved just requires pub and club that," said Emma door supervisors to be Cross, centre manager. registered with them, "They have been imsubject to completing pressed with the qualthe course and approity of training and also priate police checks. the professional, Emma says, "We are friendly atmosphere very pleased to be able that myself and the to offer this vital proteam aspire to creating. gramme. Like our other "We moved in at the Emma Cross, at courses, places are fillbeginning of Septemthe launch of ing fast. So to avoid disber and had to get set Fast Forward appointment, enrol beup very quickly. The furniture in the training rooms was fore the Christmas rush!"

For information on the latest supplied by Choice Office Furniture, who acted swiftly when they courses available from Fast Forwere asked to kit out the new suite ward or to discuss training tailored to your organisation's needs, to a tight deadline."

A new range of courses has been contact Fast Forward on 755520.

19

MADEINSIAZINDON • New & Used

Office Furniture to suit all budgets and any space • Vast range • Helpful staff raSYSTEMA • Stockists of Thera pod otue the chair that supports the . po parts that others don't!

&

In house CAD design service and manufacture available for © all new furniture installations For all your office requirements:

Choice OFFICE FURNITURE BSS House, Unit 22, Cheney Manor, Swindon Open: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm. Saturday gam to 1pm

Tel: 01793 521212 • Fax: 01793 534410

i/4 New College

Fast Forward training and development

Swindon

Fast Forward, New College's Professional Development Centre, is offering a range of 1 day workshops designed for business professionals from January: Computing Business/Administration • Recruitment and interviewing skills • Upgrade to Word 2000 • Upgrade to Excel 2000 • The effective personal assistant • The essentials of exceptional customer service • Introduction to Access • Sage Line 50 • Dealing with difficult customers • Adobe Photoshop • Effective time management • Introduction to Desktop Publishing • Introduction to market research We also offer: Health & Safety * NVQs in Call Handling, IT and Management * Door Supervisors Vocational Certificate

Management and Professional Studies

* Training, Teaching and Assessmentt

All courses are available for groups and individuals, or we can tailor training specifically to suit your needs.

New College exists solely to provide high quality education to the community

20

Swindkn Wide What's

Chrissie

Reiki could be the healing answer for you.

State Registered Hairdresser

Home visits

Call Danny Small Tel: 07092 207103

Full liabilit y insurance

Tel: 01249 890036 Mobile: 07810 484818

Eve. (01793) 878052

www.reiki-practitioner.co.uk

d+c Wn Ford -

Beauty for

HAIRDR ESSING Christmas Kyido treatment range of deluxe manicures and pedicures which include invigorating massage, stimulating skin exfoliation and relaxing heat treatment.

Also new are the IBA gel nails, nail art and tooth fairy gems.

Venues

Family activities

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

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

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

Saturdays 1st, 15th & 29th Meet the Railworkers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers to find out about life 'inside' the Swindon Works. Normal

Contact venues to confirm date. time and price

HAIR Is it time for a change? Come in and have a FREE colour consultation.

We use a range of Karastase products to look after your hair and keep the colour looking fresh and new.

CENTRE CHRISTMAS BIKE BONANZA! Bikes for all the family

)

Juniors from £49.99 Adults from £89.99 Reserve yours for Christmas NOW (with small deposit)

Biggest BMX selection in the area

WHY SETTLE FOR x SECOND BEST? When you can buy Britain's best selling scooter from The Cycling Centre, Swindon's No.1 scooter dealer '

ik

New 50cc scooters from £1,175 OTR

© PEU G EOT

Huge range of accessories, helmets, lights, boot racks etc

NOW IN - J.C.B Bikes

C

Sizes to suit all ages from 21'2years mantra 233 Ferndale Road windon Swindon r

Tel: (01793) 536657 "

'6 pen Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.30prrt" Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm —_A A Al 11iII4t1(t It

I_1

£1 per child to meet Santa. STEAM

Sunday 2nd Dazzling Decorations for 5 to 11 year olds. Time to make those special decorations. £2, booking advised.

Lydiard House

Saturday 8th, 6pm Family lecture: What the Victorians Did For Us. BBC TV's historian Adam Hart-Davis will look at the legacy of the Victorians on today's society.

Includes book signing. £5.50, child £3.50. senior citizen £4 advance booking on 466655. STEAM

Saturday 22nd to Monday 31st Festive Fun. Come and hunt for the Christmas decorations which match photographic clues. £1.50 including

78 Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick. Tel: 520813

1 CYCLIN14.

admission charges. STEAM

Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd A Christmas Cracker Meet Santa and help decorate his grotto. Normal admission charge and

admission charge. Lydiard House

Visit the new permanent Egyptian Experience at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery

Music

Saturday 22nd to Sunday 6th January Forgotten Toys. Find the hidden toys. Some may be familiar, but others may be a bit older. 50p.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 1st, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orches- tra. Elgar. Mozart and Beethoven. £13.50 - £18.50. Wyvern ^ f Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm Swindon Jazz Society. Latest releases. courtesy of Duck, Son and Pinker. The Kings Arms Hotel, Wood Street. Membership details from 693093 (Chinese and Thai) Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm Legends of Vegas Big Band - Jeff Hooper and the All Stars Radio Big Band with music from Frank Sinatra, f CHRISTMAS Z Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, Nat King MENU - Only £15 Cole, Johnny Mathis and more. £13.

BOOKINGS NOW Wyvern Wednesday 5th, 7.30pm t BEING TAKEN Abba Gold. £13.50. Wyvern Friday 7th, 7.30pmThree Men and Black. Jake Burns, JJ Burnel and Due to popular demand Steve Diggle join Pauline Black to we will be open make great acoustic music. £15. Arts Centre Sunday 23rd December Sunday 7th, 7pm; Saturday 8th.

2pm & 7pm Eat as much as you like Karry on Kristmas with K School of for only £13.95 Music. £7. Wyvern (children under 12 half price) Applies: Lunchtime 8 Evening, Saturday 8th, 8pm Mon - Thurs only The Bill Thomas Band This preachers son from Texas is a 171-173 Faringdon Road natural born bluesman with native Swindon Indian blood in his veins and securely Tel: 01793 616880 rooted in the deep south traditions.

Open Monday to Saturday £7. Arts Centre Part y bookings for up to 120 Sunday 9th, 7pm Human League & support. £17.

Easy, free parking at rear Oasis Leisure Centre. Tel: 445401

hang hai

RESTAURANT

Or

Jr

ex

y e^er er

Comedy

Christmas Carols

Sunday 16th, 7.30pm Sid Kipper's Christmas Codpieces. A rich mix of stand-up stories and quirky songs. £6.50. Arts Centre

Sunday 2nd, 7.30pm Why Christmas? A carol concert with the Salvation Army. £4. Wyvern Thursday 6th, 7pm Traditional carols with the Salvation Army Band. £3, children & senior' citizens £2.50. incl coffee & mince pie. STEAM

Workshops Saturday 1st, 10am - 4pm Figure This! Artist Gordon Dickinson will help you create fantastic wire sculptures to take home. All materials provided. £16. Arts Centre Sunday 9th, 10.30am to 3.30pm Christmas Glass - a chance to make those last minute decorations and presents. TWIGS. Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor

Dance Thursday 27th, doors open

7.30pm, dancing 9pm - lam Celtic Academy Christmas dance, music by Together Again and display of Irish dancing. £5. (tickets from 642368). Thistle Hotel, Fleming Way

Fundraising 30th November, 5.30pm till 7.30pm Christmas Fayre. Meet Father Christmas, fun fair, toy stall, tombola. refreshments. Free entry. Brookfield School, Shaw Saturday 1st, 10am Christmas Bazaar. Church Hall, Devizes Road.

Saturday 1st 1.30pm Christmas fayre. Santa's grotto. stalls, Christmas auction, refreshments. Westlea School Saturday 1st, 2pm -4pm Christmas bazaar. Free entry.

Toothill Church Sunday 2nd, 2.30pm Christmas bazaar. Coleview Community Centre, TowcestorRoad, Coleview. Admission 25p. Organised

by Honeysuckle Cat Rescue Thursday 6th, 3.15pm to 4.30pm Christmas Fair. Gifts, competitions. raffle. visit Father Christmas, cake staff, refreshments, bric-a-brac, toys.

10p entrance. Moredon Infants & Nursery School

Thursday 6th, 8pm Community carols with the Salvation Army Band. Free, (retiring collection). Westonbirt School, Tetbury. Tel: 01666 880333 Friday 7th, 7.15pm for 7.30pm Carols at Christmas with children from Crowdys. Holy Family and King William Street schools. the Mayor of Swindon and the Bishop of Swindon.

Organised by the NSPCC. Christ Church.

Saturday 8th, 7pm Christmas Concert with Swindon Brass. £4. Purton Town Hall Saturday 8th 10am to 4.30pm Carolathon. A Christmas All Sorts' with local choirs, Salvation Army Songsters, music and dance groups.

Roundabout' Coffee House will be open throughout the day and charity cards will be on sale. Free. The Pilgrim Centre, Regent Circus Saturday 8th, 11.30am A Celebration of Carols and Readings presented by pupils. Free, but book in advance on 01666 880333. Westonbirt School, Tetbury Sunday 9th, 5pm & 8pm Kentwood's Christmas Cracker. £8. Wyvern Thursday 13th Christmas Carols and Music Show, with the band songsters from the Swindon Citadel Salvation Army. £6.

Upper Room. Regent Street. Details from John Holmes Music, Faringdon Road Saturday 15th, 7.30pm Swindon Pegasus Brass. Christ Church. Drove Road Friday 21st, 7.30pm Swindon Male Voice Choir. Christ Church. Drove Road

Talk and slide show Thursday 6th, 7.30pm Codebreakers - The Story of Enigma told by Dr Mark Baldwin with a handson demonstration of one of the few surviving Enigma machines. £10. A rts Centre

Open Day Sunday 9th, 10.30am to 3.30pm TWIGS, Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon has polytunnels, demonstration gardens, an allotment site and an area dedicated to wildflowers, butterflies Manor and other wild creatures.

Garden Centre, Cheney Manor

NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER CONTACT: SWINDON S®F ATER a,1

gl

Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water 24 hours a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled\ Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered.

260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172

tis

FOR SPECIALIST LEGAL ADVICE * Conveyancing (On-Line Estimate Service) * Employment Family * Family Law * Wills & Probate For more information or detailed conveyancing costs visit: LA%VYE RS

www.crd.org.uk Or contact us at: Commerce House

34/35 Commercial Road Swindon SNl 5NS Email: info@crd.org.uk Tel: (01793) 617617 Fax: (01793) 511249

Living gardens and interiors

the

pace to be this go

Christmas,..

Imaginative and stylish plants and products from around the world The latest European Christmas trends on display - featuring distinctive room and table decorations • Lots of sound advice from our

friendly team e Come and enjoy fresh coffee in our relaxing cafe

be touched by inspiration

,, and

22

Swindo Wide

Reiki Cb]01 aub EYintc

Lower Shaw Farm Lower Shaw Lane, Shaw

113 High Street, Wootton Bassett

ssional Healing Co Learn this ancient healing art Reiki is safe, completely natural and highly effective complementary therapy. Reiki is not a religion or a belief system

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

After course guidance and support.

FREE INFORMATION PACK Reiki Master/Teacher. Guild of Complimentary Practitioners F. J. Taylor, (01793) 848940 FREEPHONE 0808 1088545 r Reiki t eatments available for relief of stress, pain, depression, loss' energy. etc. fjt04@aol.com • www.reikiretreat.co.uk

Theatre

Exhibitions and displays

Children's Morning Wednesday 5th, 10am - 12.30pm Activities on the farm for young children and their parents and carers.

Follow the nature trail, feed the hens and collect the eggs, seasonal art and craftwork. A mid-morning snack is provided, you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. Call 771080 to book. £5/family Carols by candlelight Saturday 15th, 6pm - 8pm An old fashioned 21 st C evening with a roaring fire in the big barn. Mulled wine, mince pies, hot chestnuts, suitable for all ages. Dress up warm and bring a torch. Adult £3. child £1.50

Pantomime Friday 14 December to Saturday 12 January, 2pm & 7pm, 3pm on 1 January.

Cinderella. £13.50. Wyvern. See the advertisement on page 15

Tours

to 13 January The Arts And Crafts Movement Examples of craftmanship and design from the workshops of William Morris & Co. and others, illustrated by photographs from the NMR.

THE

IREPLAC CENTRE OFFICE & SHOWROOMS Specialists in fireplaces, gas effect fires with or without flues, electric fires, gas & multifuel doses. baskets & accessories

♦

Dare to be different

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

PART EXCHANGE WELCOME. Examples: ......................... £79.95 p Olympus Mju Zoom 140 .......... £159.95 11

PERCY ST

Canon EOS 300 with 28/90 .... £249.95

Ii

z' IF 0

Im

DOLPHIN I PUB

DIGITAL CAMERAS

HAWKINS ST 0 CI THE

M O D 0 I

CENTRE

OUTLETVILLAGE NORTH CAR PARK

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS AT I RODBOURNE ROAD. SWINDON SN2 2AG TEL/FAX: (01793) 612288

High energy ceilidh Grand Union with Sheila Mainwaring Saturday 15 December, 8pm - 11.30pm Ellendune Centre, Wroughton £6, £4 concs, £16 family, under 11s £1 Call 641107 for ticket reservations booth-howe@netmatters.co ,uk

SINGLE LENS REFLEX

Pentax MZ7 with 28/80 ........... £279.95

I

The Dance House

The Russian Connection Bringing together people of any nationality interested in Russian language and culture.

Friday. 14th December, 8pm.

White Hart, Oxford Road, Stratton St. Margaret.

Further details from 337113

COMPACT CAMERAS

Olym usM j u

or stick with tradition

I

Film

Swindon Film Society All films are shown at the Arts Centre; tickets are not sold in advance; Film Society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre; you can join the society when purchasing tickets.

Wednesday 5th, 7.45pm The Colour of Paradise (PG) A magical film depicting a young STEAM Iranian boy trying to win his father's The Millennium Tapestry love.

Over 300 metres square of colourful Wednesday 19th, 7.45pm canvasses created by school children Best in Show (12) across the country, on display in This gentle satire looks at the world Wiltshire for the first time. Free of dog shows with observant humour, admission to exhibition, normal in the spoof documentary style admission charges to museum. popularised by director Christopher STEAM Guest's 'Spinal Tap'.

Lydiard House 1st to 31st December Country House Christmas Sumptious displays reflecting festive Friday 7th, 7pm fashionsfrom 1 740to 1940. Ribbons Country House ChristmasAspecial and shells, peacock feathers, tour of Lydiard House with keeper, pomanders and traditional greenery Sarah Finch-Crisp. £3, includes from the park all recreate the magic refreshments, booking advised. of Christmas past. Normal admission Saturday 15th, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monument charge The Gallery, National Monuments Record Centre. An introduction to the work of the NMRC. Free Record Centre Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th, 7.30 p m 'Alto 'Alto presented by Old Town Theatre Company. £5. Arts Centre

Olympus C-990 2.1 mp ........... £338.00 Canon Powershot G1 3.3 mp . £626.00 MEMORY CARDS

Compact Flash 32mb ................ £26.50 Compact Flash 64mb ................ £40.00 DEVELOP AND PRINT 24 hour service 35mm film 6x4 ..................... £2.99 Any35mm fil m 5x7 ..................... £4.99 Any

Wyvern Theatre, Harlequin Bar to 16 December Artworks David and Joan Miller New works in diverse media by this local couple.

Wyvern Theatre to 6 January y Mabinogion by Sarah Hope New exhibition from this Cardiff based artist developing themes from the Welsh Mabinogion mythical tales.

Arts Centre to 20th December Between Land and Sea by Damien Debski New photographs from this local artist. Works for sale.

Venite a parlare italiano con noi! Ritrovatevi con altri italiani!

Do you speak Italian? Perhaps you are Italian and would like to meet others? Maybe you're simply interested in Italian culture.

If so, join us for an Italian film, Senso, at the Victoria Pub. Old Town on Sunday 9 December, 8pm. Followed by Italian 'Panettone'.

Further details from 337113 Atencion Amigos Espanols y Latinamericanos Gran Fiesta Navidana el domingo 2 de Diciembre a las Ocho en el sotano Victoria Pub (Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon) Miriam: 812177 o Gill: 639502 Te Esperamos

MORTGAGE SERVICES Serving the community since 1987

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd

Mansfield Begbie Associates would like to thank all their clients for their support during Year 2001. We wish all Link readers a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year NEW REDUCED MORTGAGE RATES i

1

I

YL-

4.2% (APR 4.7 %) discounted to 31/7/03

Rates from 4.25% (APR 4.7%) or 3.9% (APR 4.2%) (subject to 'loan to value') for two years. Available with special remortgage package (No arrangement or valuation fees; legal fees paid).

Maximum available 95% for purchases and remortgages.

• • • • • '

NEW

For a limited period: 5 year fixed rate of 5,19% (APR 5.4%) available for mortgages & remortgages

already I1T_

• • • 1

• L

•

• • "

For example, £50,000 would cost £175 per month interest only (excluding insurance). This is discounted to 31/7/03. Valuation refunded on completion and £250 cashback. (Maximum loan to value 97%). Daily interest, tracker discount.

RE-MORTGAGE SPECIAL

A discounted rate of 3.9% i.fn a daily interest basis (APR 4.2%) for two years. No 'Tie-Ins.' (Maximum loan to value: 75%).

No arrangement fee.

100% mortgages now available for first and second time buyers NEGATIVE EQUITY MORTGAGES ALSO AVAILABLE You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For free advice and further information, call us now on MEMBER

® Swindon 772779

General Insurance No 6740

e-mail: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk • www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5508399 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 499646

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd. is an Introducer Representative of Allcover Financial Services authorised to give investment and pensions business intoductions only.

Allcover Financial Services is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for investment and pensions business.

Credit broker fees of up to 1% on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. 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 life assurance policy may be required.

Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 2812/2002 secured against a property being purchased for £55.000.

300 monthly mortgage payments of £175. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £t 25,183 calculated to include valuation fee £195. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan.

Maximum loan £t 50,000. Rate applied is 4.2% (4.7% APR) discounted to 31/7/03. Rates may vary. The rate applies to loans up to and including 97% Of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable until 3r17103, aher which the then current variable base mortgage rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the form of a Risk Charge. Rates correct at time of going to press.

Incorporated in England and Wales - Company Number: 3217240- Reg. Office: 311, Ballards Lane, Finchley, London N12 SLY

24

The Link Magazine • December 2001

Coping with cancer

Dave Rogers

pa .ete' awe '^ecazccra2 1

rI11 I

Interior and exterior'

Two major cancer charities announced in November that breast cancer is now the most common form of the disease in Britain. Deirdre O'Connell from Toothill describes how she has coped during the last ten months since being diagnosed, and thanks everybody who has supported her and her family. paign'. A huge A mammothank you to evegram, ultrasound ryone who sponand needle bisored us. opsy followed on I managed to 13 March. Finally work as much as on 20 March I was possible during my diagnosed with treatment and colbreast cancer. leagues were very My whole supportive. world collapsed around me. Staff Radiotherapy at PMH were started in September which meant very reassuring. travelling to OxMy mother, sister and children ford several times a week. I have finwere waiting at at Lydiard Park in June ished all my treathome. Keith, my boyfriend, and I told them the ment now except for routine check Keith at the end of the New York dreadful news. My poor mother ups and am glad to have my hair had already lost two brothers from back. marathon on 4 November I think staying positive over the cancer. I told them I would be fine and that life must go on as normal. past eight months has helped, not On 4 April I had a lumpectomy. to mention the enormous support The signs were good, but chemo- from my wonderful family and all therapy and radiotherapy would my friends. Keith, who travelled follow. I did not feel too bad dur- many miles several times a week ing chemotherapy, but losing my to be with me, has been my guardhair was extremely traumatic. ian angel and of course my chilDuring chemo I took part in dren, Gemma, 13 and Tony, 10, 'Race for Life' with my sister. It have been truly amazing. I am very was a great day. We raised over proud of them. £1,000 and it was fantastic to have Early detection of breast cancer done something worthwhile. is so important. Statistics show 680 Hopefully I will take part again new breast cancers are diagnosed next year. Keith ran the New York each week in the UK. Hopefully marathon on 4 November raising one day there will be a cure for this over £2,300 for 'Breast Cancer Cam- terrible disease.

On 17 February 2001 I noticed a lump in my breast. I went to my doctor immediately. He tried to extract fl uid from what he said was probably a cyst, no fluid came out. He referred me to PMH and assured me everything would be fine. A few days later I phoned the hospital and was informed to my horror that I would be seen on 12 April, eight weeks later. I could not wait that long and pleaded for an earlier appointment. I was seen on 6 March. The consultant took some cells from the lump. He also assured me that I had nothing to worry about, especially as I was only 34.

decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance • Gardening

NO JOB TOO SMALL For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

@JFK BUILDING SERVICES Extensions, Alterations, Renovations All aspects of garden construction including fencing All general building work

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (01793) 727824

Book now for the Moonwalk

IJ

t MILUDN

`usT M

°

Superb Specialist Cleaning of Carpets, Curtains, Upholstery & Leathe r

Recommended by most leading furnishing retailers including Gilberts, Spillers, Normans

Call us now: 0800 028 4691 For your free evaluation

Application forms are now available for the annual overnight moonwalk marathon on 11 May through the streets of London in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Bristol Cancer Help Centre.

Pick one up at the Link Centre gym or Oasis main reception. Apply early as there will only be 10,000 places.

For the last two years Swindon women walking under the banner Twin Peaks have been the largest group from any town in the UK - 100 in 1999 and over 200 last year. Will Twin Peaks 3 be even bigger?

A meeting for moonwalkers is being planned for Tuesday 15 January.

More details will be found in next month's Link.

Serving breakfast for Breakthrough at Cellular Operations in Peatmoor on 26 October, from left, volunteers Dinos Papadakis, Eunice Salmon, customer support staff Louise Rainbird and Tracey Castle, volunteer Lyn Tarbet, facilities manager Paul Dolphin, catering manager Emma Roberts. (The Budwiser in the photo is a raffle prize) See story right

The Link Magazine • December 2001 25

Brave Charlie awaits the postman Charlie Jarvis, 3, of Greenmeadow has a rare form of cancer and hopes that Link readers will help her support a national fund-raising scheme to aid research into the condition and its treatment.

Barely three months ago Charlie was diagnosed with "' neuroblastoma, an agL, gressive children's cancer.

• Less than one hundred cases are identified each year in the UK. For Charlie, the tumour developed in the adrenal gland and spread to other parts of the body.

She is currently undergoing her fourth course of chemotherapy.

She faces a further three courses, probably to be followed by surgery.

The condition and the treatment make her and the family virtually housebound. "It dominates our lives" said her mother, Samantha.

"Although Charlie was frightened at first, she has been brilliant and very brave, and has responded positively to her treatment."

Robin, her seven year old sister is very caring and the family has greatly appreciated the support provided by CALM, (Swindon's Cancer and Leukemia Movement) To raise funds for its work, the Neuroblastoma Society is collecting used postage stamps.

Charlie hopes readers will write to her so that she can both enjoy receiving mail and cutting off the stamps to send to the society. Any enclosed used stamps would also be welcomed.

Samantha pointed out that since this particular cancer is not well known, it does not receive the publicity which leads to donations.

If you can help, write to Charlie Jarvis, 14 Coln Crescent, Greenmeadow, Swindon SN25 3NA

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

Come and see Sania every weekend during Decemter

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

Varieties include Nordman and Noble Fur non-needle drop and traditional Norway Spruce We also carry a range of top quality pot grown and potted Christmas trees Large range of decorations on display and, new this year, fibre optic Christmas trees HTA Gift Tokens available.

Ideal presents for gardeners View our range of gifts, from houseplants to garden ornaments, shrubs and garden tools Christmas presents for your pets! We have lots of tasty gifts for your favourite animal

Real Wreaths, Holly and Mistletoe * Open 7 days a week * Plenty of free parking * Coffee Shop

Breakthrough breakfasts Volunteers served up breakfast during October in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer In Nine Elms Nicci Nyahwa served breakfast at home, and delivered to Ashington House Surgery and Brook Field School. Combinedwiththe Cellular Operations, breakfasts (opposite), the amount raised was £1,989.72 after Abbey National Bank doubled the total because of the involvement of staffer Lynda Tarbet.

At other breakfasts, staff at Thames Water raised £780 and Jim Crawford from Marlborough Road made £63 at his house.

•

Purton Road

Stone Lane Garden Centre 7iard li cent

Stone Lane, Lydiard Millicent, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 771766

Peatmoor, Nine Elms & Shaw

Middleleaze /*' & Shaw

26

The Link Magazine • December 2001

An evening of entertainment in memory of Danny Bohane In aid of Prospect Hospice Thursday 6 December, 7pm Club 2000, Stratton Children's fashion show by Sargeo Kids and Tinkerbells Fancy dress fashion show

by Skywalkers Raffle & mini-auction compared

by Shirley Ludford of BBC Wiltshire Sound Tickets £1.25 from 832715 Bar & refreshments Danny, 43, died at Prospect in June, leaving behind his wife Sue and five children

WH EL #VIN

N

High Quality Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior FOR FREE QUOTATIONS

01793 725699 OR 07833 147327

CALL

Twelve ways to help the Prospect Hospice in its 21st year Christmas is only a few weeks away. In all the rush and the preparations, take a moment to think how you could help Swindon's Prospect Hospice, writes fundraiser Gillian Richardson. Here are twelve pledges you could make for Prospect this Christmas. You can also turn them into New Year resolutions.

1 Pledge to make a single or regular donation (if you pay tax and complete a Gift Aid form we can claim back the tax, increasing your donation by an extra 30%!)

2 Pledge to join our Prospect Hospice Lottery (and have the chance of winning £1,000) 3 Pledge to Give As You Earn 4 Pledge to join our Friends of Prospect Scheme at £10 a year 5 Pledge to leave a legacy to Prospect 6 Pledge to take a Prospect collecting box 7 Pledge to become a boxes collector for your street

Light A Life A traditional service around a Christmas tree at Prospect Hospice, Moormead Road, Wroughton, Saturday 8 December, 6pm, with mince pies and mulled wine.

Sponsor a light on the tree to celebrate the life of a loved one.

For details of sponsorship, call 815142

8 Pledge to give your time and talents as a volunteer at the hospice 9 Pledge to donate unwanted clothing, brie a brae and books to our Prospect Hospice charity shops 10 Pledge to become a shop volunteer

Outgoing president at Haydon Wick Bowls Club Betty Haines """ resent the ues to Marlin Stott of the q y tional Asthma Society, left, and Gillian Richardson.

Story below.

11 Pledge to take part in (or volunteer at) a Prospect Hospice event

12 Pledge to help make each day count.

Over £1.7 million has to be raised from voluntary and corporate donations every year (seventy per cent of running costs).

So help us make each day count

and make it a Twelve Days of Christmas with a difference.

To make a pledge or for details on how you can help support your local hospice, contact the fundraising department on 815142 or e mail: fundraising@prospecthospice.org.uk www.prospect-hospice.org.uk

The children, staff, parents and friends at Ridgeway Pre-School in Wroughton raised £262.47 for the Prospect Hospice at an open day and fete on 15 September. Gillian Richardson receives a cheque from the children, with staff members from left, Donna Woolrich, Charlotte Black, Stephanie Roberts and nursery manager Theresa Birch

KINGFISHER WINDOWS • DOORS

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR QUALITY, VALUE AND SECURITY • Full Ranqe of PVC-U and Aluminium Products

Charities benefit from bowlers fund raising At a well attended annual general meeting on 6 November, members of Haydon Wick Bowls Club witnessed the culmination of last season's charitable endeavors as cheques were handed over to two charities.

Outgoing president, Betty Haines had, with members' assistance, raised £304 for her selected charity, the National Asthma Society.

Receiving the cheque, area representative Marilyn Stott said the money would be used locally, added to other funds raised for the purchase of equipment for the Great Western Hospital.

A cheque for £1,000 was handed to Gillian Richardson, community fundraiser for the Prospect Hospice. The sum was raised from a gala day and a race night as the club responded to the hospice's sporting appeal which formed part of its 21st anniversary fund raising efforts.

Bowls club Christmas concert Saturday 15 December, 7.30pm, Haydon Centre.

Featuring the Aldbourne Band and Thamesdown Ladies Choir Tickets: £4.50, £4 concessions, from club secretary, Barrie Smith on 722972 or the Haydon Centre on 706666.

• 3 PIECE SUITES in a wide choice of fabrics and styles • FIRESIDE CHAIRS & RECLINERS probably Swindon's largest choice on show

you must be lookingfor

. .

.

M

W

F

rT

www.manorfurniture.co.uk

TEL: 513444 • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • LARGE SHOWROOM • AMPLE FREE PARKING • YELLOW

^'

PAGES `

e

FREE DELIVERY OVER A WIDE AREA From Great

AKERS WAY

j

Cheney Manor

Maslar^my

SWITCH

L SWINDAN'S RIGGEST INDEPENDENT

FURNMIRF

STORE .^

28

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ Dec ember 2001

West Swindon based internet charity goes from strength to strength

COMPUTERS PC SERVICES Business & Home Hardware & software Setup, test & support Upgrades & spares Training & tuition Repairs (no fix no fee) Competitive rates

Contact Phil on Tel: 01793 531162 Mobile: 07747 747000

uklinks4 There are some great resources on the Internet.

But do you know where they are?

www.uklinks4.com

Citizens Online has just celebrated its first year in Swindon, writes marketing and publicity officer Catherine Maxwell. parents and children The organisation was about dangers on the first launched in spring ., internet and how to 2000, at a major event in deal with them.

London, and its profile has In the past year Citicontinued to grow since zens Online has acted ,, the opening of offices at in an advisory role and -` ` the West Swindon shopas a spokesperson to ping centre by Michael both the Government = Wills MP, in November of and the media. Chief last year. â&#x20AC;˘ Executive John Fisher Despite the downturn in has made appearances technology companies on BBC Breakfast, BBC and the flop in dot coms, Six O'Clock News and computers and the interthe World Service, as net are still very much an well as being seen and essential part of everyday heard locally on Wiltlife - whether it be for the shire Sound and BBC kids homework, to book Radio Bristol. cheap flights, e-mail the Commenting on the grandparents in Australia, John said, or to find out what your Launching Citizen's Online last November, Michael Will_ future, , MP, with staff members, from left, Catherine Maxwell, gaining access to the local council is up to.

It is all around us and to Michelle Brooks, Chief Executive John Fisher, Cheryl Orton internet can open up new horizons for peomiss out on the technology is to be excluded from many online voting as a way of encour- ple. It's so important that those aging the public to take more in- who want to get online but are areas of today's society.

Citizens Online is a national terest in our future government, unable to for many different reacharity that campaigns for internet and should the IT industry face up sons, are given access. It is not just access for everyone. As part of our to their corporate social responsi- about computers but about people, and bringing communities toongoing campaign we have bility?

This month will see the launch gether." launchedvariousresearchprojects To find out more call 882800, or investigating the internet. The of a report that calls for a Governprojects focus on areas such as ment initiative to educate both go www.citizensonline.org.uk

Cousins keeping in touch Two long lost cousins reunited thanks to the Link magazine's web site www.swindonlink.com are continuing their family search.

KD BUILDING CONSULTANTS Do you want to build an extension to your home, but not sure where or how to start?

I provide friendly but professional advice to anyone unsure or with little knowledge of building, consulting with you on initial planning, discussing contracts and contractors, possible problems and how to overcome them.

Services can also include complete project management for total piece of mind. Overseeing each job, ensuring its smooth running right through to completion.

Whether your project is a new conservatory, an extension or a full conversion, KD Consultants are there to help, offering i mpartial advice, guidance and an unbiased opinion.

You really can beat the cowboys!

Give your building or property improvement that sure, safe professional start and finish.

Please call for an informal chat or to arrange an initial consultation with Ken

Telephone: 01793 348386 Mobile: 07736 230180

As reported in October's edition former Swindon Mayor councillor Maureen Caton, right, from Woodhall Park was found by her cousin Thomas Moynihan from Dublin through the site.

"Since then more relatives have been discovered," said Maureen.

"I had an Aunt Helena who died in the United States. My father was one of fourteen children and many of them moved to the US." She has also been in touch with her father's last surviving brother who now lives in Perth, Australia.

Maureen has found out more about her father who died when she was only six. "I think I might have inherited my love of gardening from him," said Maureen. "I have always enjoyed gardening and I found out my father lived for a while on a farm near Limerick."

Muriel Lobban, from Canada, who originally spotted the message from cousin Thomas on the site visited Maureen in early November, but they were unable to make the trip to see him in Dublin.

"We'll have to fit in a trip next ti me she comes over," said Maureen.

In the meantime, Maureen hopes

to get herself up to speed with email so that she does not have to wait for her daughters to show her how to operate the computer.

See if you know anybody at Peoplelink on www.swindonlink.com

NY donations online Swindon company Business Telecom Solutions has set up a charities donation point at their web site to aid the victims of the attacks on the World Trade Centre on 11 September.

Donations can be make to the American Red Cross Appeal at: www.businesstelecomsolutions.co.uk

r

nt â&#x20AC;˘

^

NT Communications Ltd is Swindon's most diverse company.

We provide specialist consultancy and ment services to the munications industry.

We also provide Internet Services from website development to web hosting and have a client base that ranges from the UK to UAE and USA. Below are just a few of our network websites:

C)finityxom NTfinity.com is your one-stop shop for services from Web Site design and hosting to e-commerce applications. We design web sites to the highest quality with clean and effective presentation!

visit us online: www.ntfinity.com

Qtechnical.com NTtechnical.com is the online home for the technical services division of NT Communications. Here you will find technical experts in Software, Hardware and RF, plus complete project management.

visit us online: www.nttechnical.com

SG Swindon Gateway -Wiltshire's Premier Gateway Web Site.

With hundreds of links to online Swindon, Swindon Gateway Dot Corn is the homepage of choice for many Wiltshire surfers.

visit us online: www.swin don gateway. corn

email us: enquiries aŠntcom com visit us online: www.ntcomicom

The Link Magazine • December 2001

30

v Sculptured extensions v Protective overlays to encourage natural nail growth v Airbrushing nail art v Temporary body art s Ear piercing using the latest safety equipment

a 08

°

o 0°

Why be rushed? Pamper yourself within a relaxing environment

Tel: 01793 611267/349536

Get in shape with

.achieve Success Fitness Consultancy & Sports Massage Therapy

* NOW AVAILABLE

*

o Weight loss programmes o $^ Personal training =:

PILATES & YOGA EXERCISE CLASSES Call Dawn Cole BSC (Hons) on 01793 430400

Taddah!

Youngsters from across Swindon spent two days during half term learning new talents at a circus skills workshop at Peatmoor School, led by Jackie Stredder and Trudi Ackrill.

They juggled, spun plates and diablos, tossed clubs and ribbons and walked on stilts during two days of clowning around, before presenting a show to family and friends, pictured right.

"It really was an excellent workshop; we had a lot of fun" said show compere Daniel Higgs, 14.

Calling skipping kids Peatmoor Community Facilities will be running a six week skipping class for 7 to 11 years starting on 23 January. To book a place at £6, call into Peatmoor Community School reception.

The Link Magazine • December 2001 31

England call up for holiday tournament The Christmas holidays are going to be more exciting than ever for two young West Swindon ice hockey players when they travel to Canada on Boxing Day to represent England in an international tournament.

Forward Mark Richardson and defenceman Shane Moore, who both attended Windmill Hill primary school before moving to Bradon Forest School, will be playing for the under 16s squad.

Shane has played in Canada before, having been selected for England's under As team.

With a growing reputation in the game, the cost of travelling to representative games for their region and their country, the cost of equipment has become a heavy burden. The boys are in desperate need of sponsorship.

To help out, call Duncan Moore on 874722, or 613050 (daytime).

n

i

Christmas Pamper

Reiki Healing

Specialised aromatherapist & sports therapist Julie Morse

"

I.I.H.H.T (Diploma) F.S.M.T.

ti

In the comfort of your home or treatment room available

Tel: 07949 442078

Shane Moore and Mark Richardson

Indian Head Massage

Why not treat yourself or a friend to a relaxing massage at Yule Tide?

Treatment Room (gym) Link Centre Lorraine Mills 07899 675318 Dip.IHM. Reiki Master. MICHT Mobile service also available

Kelly's Salon The Hilton, Swindon v Nail Extensions

• St Tropez Tanning • Body Wraps

+ Massage Evening and weekend appointments Mobile service available

For a friendly & professional service please call

01793 886863 or 07720 051013

e venue

ar demand class is now vn School 3 range Park 8.30pm required t and Geri Halliwell)

£4.50 Is £4.00 its for classes. ailable for that istmas gift Lble now for .t mas gift

Gym, Greendown Schoo 7pm to 8p

Gym, Greendown School, 8 p mto9pm

nge Park

Gr^1gPark

4 Peatmoor Prima ry School Opp. The Chinese Experience 6.30pm to 7.30pm

32

The Link Magazine • December 2001

KA

Tough trip for Norman in the Spirit of Swindon

STYLE

Specialising ino

Norman Butler, Swindon's intrepid rower, is now about half way across the Atlantic Ocean with his partner Phil Scantlebury from Poole, and is hoping to reach Barbados around 18 December where he will be reunited with his wife Linda and baby daughter Melissa.

—

ALL aspects of

nail, hand and foot care.

Norman called The three times during November to report his

SA LZ GI T T E R

Link

Jessica manicure pedicure pedicure

Nail biters programme.

ESSICA , Post acrylic treatment,

nail extensions, nail art Jessica products available Member of the Association of Nail Technicians

progress which has

Eine Atlantikublerquerung im Ruderboot Sturman Butler ass Satzgitters Pannerstadt Swindon starlet 6eute seine Tour - P,6dert ui d Engster wunschto, persCoBdr grate Fenrt

been much slower and ^e ws ..:n ea r,.tae^ n. ^^,:^malei e .b. harder than he had ex+(arnwxhrM Tbn 1 h - 3wr.. dam 5liattmi ^ waen^..on swendo n vnll em heu 'wr ' ^ ^' "^° Fn. ecx ..^-ma.. a,.

Bew»la. hnannx pected. After the initial imnanoos aid«. mre a..N,m au sn c^amban m. mrtsel em u@st ge we.a. .sa mss. .radon°may sea sickness and skin b^ g 'cu Nn5 an Awnr. wr av2rtd,rn GAS®n, Wu rr 194i m,als eau ..

^"^,.-,

N

R

W

n

rashes caused by the

bra tudemd

y

„,„,,,

a•

M

Kbnei4tilr

vM 6e

I —

+s _

,^ -

I

R '.dars^ yea ,mod .

s

p^ Lsr •.

f "'„" 1 .

^

' ^,

.ten __:,v ^ ^-W Rrs rand oeSdm;. <nc Ai...m Cad.nM, ^ h.. chaffing of the salt wa- na w F- dzr oey .. eirsa. do :uch f,^bsgakom,nm .ei.

8^:,,II R d^F ^N,Fa om e%aa ter, and nearly being O,, ,re„ a ^I ^ ^<^. n ^ner arm.n.r.... apivit'f f-^r^i+trzfo •• .

Abuhmfa art+M F1 •ICrtiN1 3t iha. al46.bF..

Merman B(iiiic: ea^aFan. ^n,,.Kaer r run down by a ship, as s gam dI BMdeaw kutvnn Bukr qx Bta aam. a:dtlF gdeFer ca ^eEef inpeer (Zwetsr ramp !

M ocr< . , Rkfiix mosmm^e mf esa n' hif Ce Spree reported last month, Jt lJkNba ; Fm , .i uen salvo- C`mS BFRhe ax ErwNt. ,^„^ auf Calri^ as A6.naoe.s i 4eu. u+. audrr :b wp Qern. di ^+bnnP wa Oad Car dnn dbena- weh dienlba dnou uba&xnwun tdy„a wJSt ^. '*eG :rh trsio ^rx[MAm+w knee F.em. Poym O'gk;9r Norman and Phil have ' 3, o. Fdacd- rea hrt'. ir.'zGUwr. m' emn drti Mm i N a 3,3 iO ,, M:,C n a %,e ..{ U n, . h iwo ,,. aie IWP *w 3' a da 6.w. suffered from the in- Nm xr. .,. 5,5,3, is Jues:v.man a4^[ R AEe,u rat c Faaerlmrr u<d -' e bar. . des • alkrd5 as sevr qn,. nN sda^rynM. knsec A,. xts Tei+rewrc 3533,3 am vorscalta e„ kerea N ..Lna . , m.. Ea' i.3, Z n ,w.! brn ., * dm,.A a[ Umn- den ..ter arrmae3 %.r. ae aura alkin ank n Fw , sia Ez®rter rri en Vabe av 33 5W 5. , creasing heat as they .o, mk, :aa mN .ec w timsxWea +amen. xennn etmrv,gEaPc ilres vaW.5w.wlNV. xb ws dM'Nut rowed south. With no The Oct ober Link's report and photo translated in the Salzgitter Zeitung, Ih'sct 1 m, lhu wind at all, or rowing Mayors off Swindon and twin town Salzgitter meeting Norman at the West Swindon Centre it for much of In early November Phil's old Read full reports of Norman's 'phone the last five weeks, they have struggled to maintain a satisfactory daily back problem flared up, which re- calls at www.swindonlink.com duced his effectiveness, and Normileage.

The Spirit of Swindon can be tracked He said they have had to de- man pulled muscles in an elbow. on the web at www.oceanrowing.com velop a new rowing technique to "Lack of sleep has been the main cope with the sea conditions. problem," said Norman. "With "When its rough the waves come rowing two hours on and two JUST THE JOB at us from all directions, so we are hours off, we're not getting enough Domestic Services Agency not rowing in a straight line. We ti me to recuperate our strength." requires At sea since 8 October, the bothave to steer the boat with the oars so we hit the wave or come down tom of the Spirit is now encrusted Domestic Cleaners & Ironers from it at the right angle. If we with barnacles. They are obviously Flexible hours, don't get it right, we get soaked as a delicacy for some as Norman good rates of pay the wave crashes across the boat." and Phil were surprised when a Phone Jill or Sue on 861112 three foot turtle appeared and started having a nibble. "It was good that it was removing the barr

Fully insured • NVQ Qualified (since 1984)

firerx

01793 634084

wn, n ear asa

'

hr. nta

urtpn

T

y

^qp^

tr,k Camer ,

5

LOSE WEIGHT FEEL GREAT We have the fastest and most effective weight loss programme available.

You can still eat your favourite foods, you'll have incredible energy, and the inches

will disappear week after week.

Naturally derived products 30 da money back guarantee Full customer follow up y

Call Brian now on 01793

872659

(Independent Herbalife distributor)

www.feelgoodlookgood.net

^,

.-

.

.

p

y.

Y

.

.

. 33

rel

:

'

bx

3

'

,

*'

.

*

BH'n'.

ti

35

yt

s..ar w Ba3

d

aRr

..

I me.

b

r¢An

Mra

,

wn Fr

',

a

S., ha,r

33

air

.

5.e d.

,I

zr

55.3.3

5,3

Prsve

,

nacles as the boat has become

Aeic'1 i'iA/ y

f 2 . CCU

heavier to row. We were still at the time, but he followed and continued his meal when we rowed on."

They have not seen any other

YOUR LOCAL PVC - U MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

Why not let us handle everything from start to finish?

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

Wanborough. SN4 OAS

humans, but they've had dolphins around the boat and flying fish in it, and the occasional shark's fin gliding by.

On 9 November Norman telephoned to report a massive tropical storm which hit the Spirit of Swindon the night before. "It was pretty scary stuff with torrential rain filling up the boat and forked lightning all around us," he said.

"We had to keep rowing just to get the water out of the boat and get away from the lightning.

"I said my prayers and thought long and hard of Linda and Melissa back in Swindon. We really did think a bolt of lightning might hit us."

Linda has also been in regular contact with Norman. He called heron 15 November to say that the wind had picked up. "Even though the temperature was 43 degrees, Norman sounded in much better spirits and he was happy to receive messages from family and friends. Phil's back has recovered and if they can now get good wind assistance they should arrive before Christmas."

SOLUTION Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FRI:I: SURVEY NO DEPOSIT Work it out for yourself £ 60 20' fascia board fitted 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 £205 20' fascia, soffit & gutter 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication)

TH. E^, TTN " I

For a free quote

e-mail: rapers@tinyworld.co.uk

The Link Magazine • December 2001 33

LOVE YOUR LIFE

110s mdrd For crafts and gifts Cross Stitch * Tapest ry Embroidery Knitting ya rn * Beads * Sequins * Pinflair

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

4^Seue4 ^^#W

'

4

4

v LEARN TO LOVE YOUR LIFE ^ ► r REVITALISE YOUR SPIRIT r v REALISE YOUR POTENTIAL r Margaret Brace, BSoc Sc (Hons) MCIPD ANMA BRCP

DMC stockist 1st class picture framing service;

4

Evening Workshops inspired by Louise Hay

Tel: 07785 921841 r £110* FOR 10 WEEKS r WOOTTON BASSETT r r STARTS JANUARY 2002 ^► *Priority booking discount of £10 for full payment by 31 December

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN WOOTTON BASSETT

: 01.713 HSO790

34 High Street oa

Speciality shops and services

Selection of electrical gifts

:• Lots of free parking

All you need in Spares • Repairs • Service 11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378

•• Variety and interest

Customer orders welcome

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

chools, libraries nd other

AND STREET FAYRE

rganisations

—

pplied

Friday 30 November High Street closed to traffic from 6.30pm t Carol singers, mulled wine and hot chestnuts, entertainment

CHIROPODIST Advanced Reflexologist

Picture Framing : Stamp Craft Workshops Wide range of art stamps, accessories and Q handmade paper.

Authorised Pergamano% stockist Open ...IIinjij

& Kinesiologist CLINIC AT 113 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor •, ; MBChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASK

o

Telephone: 01793 840650

Ll

K. '1 cxt. les

Find something different in a country town just ten minutes from Swindon

Large range of Christmas lights and replacement bulbs

4 Po tte rs Walk, High '„eet, Woo tt on Bassett (adjacent to Boots the Chemist)

).

i

Re-upholrtay of dining chairs s c.

e-mail: margaretbrace@hotmail.com

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 (01793) 849914 anytime

AND So Aromatherapy ^L & Gift Shop Gift boxes and baskets made to order for Christmas and other special occasions * Aromatherapy oils * Relaxation music Yankee candles * Jellycat toys * Crystals Silver jewellery * Greenwood range Handmade chocolates & preserves Handmade cardigans from South America 127 High Street, Wootton Bassett • Tel: 01793 8491 1 1

K. & E. J. CRUMP & SON

FAMILY BUTCHERS 120 HIGH ST., WOOTTON BASSETT. Tel: 853284

Fresh Turkeys, Geese, Cockerels, Chickens, Boneless Turkey Breast, Duck, Pheasant, Venison, High Class Scotch & English Beef, Welsh Premium Lamb, Pork, Speciality Pies HRISTM

ORDERS

Our own cooked hams (including honey roast, apple roast, mustard, smoked and traditional) and pork.

NOW BEIN G C TAKEN ^ ,

9 Gold Awards, 7 Silver, 4 Bronze for our sausages, pies, pate, faggots Over 20 varieties of fresh sausages including: The Famous `Bassett Banger'

"WE'RE NO ORDINARY BUTCHER. TASTE THE DIFFERENCE" 1 SCi^T(1i^";

BEEF

^ ^7

Mast...

34

The Link Magazine • December 2001 Eager to help Children and staff at the Bright Horizons Nursery in Peatmoor hope to have raised more than £870 for Children In Need, well over last year's total.

Every opportunity was taken to raise money, including sponsor-

Pre-Prep Scht^ol 4-7 yrs

ing nursery managers Heather Nursery School 2-4 yrs

Russell and Tracy Field to change every nappy on the day.

On 30 October, every child helped bake cupcakes which raised £360 for the Red Cross New York 11 September victims fund.

All dressed up for Children in Need.

Staff members, Jas Mander and Sue Grey with Chloe Ann Pike, Taylor McKenzie, Lucy Nicholl

Baby Nursery 0-2 yrs Prior Park Prep School 7-13 years Holiday School Flexible fees From £2.50 per hour Nursery Grant Open 7.50am-6.00pm

Meadowpark School indi vid ual Learni g

Meadowpark Nursery and Pre-Prep School Calcutt Street Cricklade Swindon SN6 6BB Contact Mrs S Hanbury or Mrs R Kular

Tel: 01 793

75 2600

♦ Meadowpark is a well established thriving, school with faultless DfEE and OFSTED reports across the 0-7 years age range A Conveniently located for Swindon and the surrounding area in a pleasant rural environment in the grounds of Prior Park Prep School ♦ Come and see why past and present parents believe we are unique A Registrations being accepted for 2002 Certain places available for 2001

Children's Day Nursery, Peatmoor Village Centre The very best in child care for children aged 0 - 5 years COME ALONG AND SEE HOW WE PLAY To see our superb facilities for yourself and meet our dedicated team of staff at a time to suit you, please call Tracy or Heather on 01793 887602 www.bright-horizons.co.uk

•

•

SUCCESS FOR SCHOOLWEAR STORE National Schoolwear Centres, the one-stop shop for school uniform is now into its third month of success in the Brunel Centre, Swindon

From mid-December - samples of communion dresses, heat/wear and veils, gloves, satin ballet pumps. Orders taken in January.

NE of 27 outlets around the country in a wellO established franchise group, the Swindon store is run by husband and wife team, David and Jacqui Henshaw. David is a former sales director for a toy company and Jacqui was a school cook at a primary school in Aldbourne where they live.

David says that the level of business in the opening months has confirmed their belief that there was a gap in the market for their type of shop in Swindon.

All general schoolwear items are available including Hush Puppy fitted shoes from size 7 (small) to 6 (large) and all after school activities are catered for, such as Rainbow, Brownie, Beaver, Cub uniforms and dancewear.

National P , *71Schoolwear(_­Q2-L L'.L -(2-

The centre is currently discussing uniform requirements with many schools so that parents can easily find the clothing they need, complete with logo, in one place. Jacqui says, "We focus very closely on providing a complete at efficient se rv ice and the business i; already at a level where we have needed to take on more staff.

"Word is spreading about Swindon's branch of National Schoolwear Centres. Every day more people discover us and we are able to supply their needs; we look forward to them becoming our regular customers as their children grow."

Lucy Mae Parker, at the opening of the National Schoolwear Centres store in the Brunel Store in August

Come to National Schoolwear Centres for January intake uniform

39, Brunel Arcade, Swindon

Unit 01793 520843 Tel:

14 HUSH

PUPPIES'

The Link Magazine • December 2001 35

Playgroup celebrates in a new home Greendown Playgroup has been relaunched in Grange Park, 15 years after it first opened at Greendown School.

In April the school announced that the playgroup would have to vacate the Len Hobbs community suite because student numbers meant that the room had to be used to deliver the curriculum. A site in the school ground was offered, and rather than close down, or move elsewhere, the parents set about finding a building and moving it.

After a summer of hard work and a great deal of stress, the playgroup reopened on 13 November in its own building on the edge of the school field. "It has been an incredibly hard six months, raising the money, getting the building moved and refurbishing it," said chair Jackie Morgan. "We are just so glad to be functioning again in our own place."

Christmas Bazaar & Grand Official Opening

Saturday 8 December, 1 pm Greendown Playgroup, Greendown School, Grange Park Visit your local playgroup and help with fundraising

Home from home, children, staff and committee members in the new Greendown Playgroup building

Men at play Children's playgroups are typically run by women, but the Rainbow boast three men on its volunteer management committee.

Ray Shirley and Andy Robson, male committee in September.

The arrival of the dads has been whose children attend the playgroup, teamed up with Howard well received. "Some of the parGriffiths, whose wife works there, ents were a bit surprised when and took up the posts of chairman, they first turned up," said supertreasurer and health and safety visor Frances Cottell. "They have member on the previously all fe- sorted out quite a few things and Howard Griffiths, Andy Robson and Maria Park get into some Halloween Fun at the end of October

Playgroup in Freshbrook can now have settled in really well."

Chairman Howard Griffiths said, "we wanted to help and give the playgroup a strong future. It's nothing to do with gender. We are bringing our professional experience to help manage the group.

The Rainbow Playgroup meets in the community room at Freshbrook School and provides

► ^

play sessions for children age from two to four.

For details of places, call Maria ~,+a ' . ` Park on 345526.

Children's Information Service Swindon 13 Market Street, Swindon (by the big top) Tel: (01793) 541786

Call us or call in & lei us ease your

childcare worries CIS is supported by the Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership Reg. charity: 1081621

RIIJGEWAY PRE-SCHOOL Toddler group for North Swindon children North Swindon MP Michael Wills dropped into a new parent and toddler group serving Taw Hill, Rodbourne, Moredon and Pinehurst on 9 November.

Officially opening 'Little Angels', which meets at St Mary's Church Hall on Cheney Manor Road in Rodbourne Cheney, the father of five said he was delighted to see another new group for parents and preschool children.

The newly refurbished church hall provides a large space where children can play. As the group grows, there are smaller rooms available where parents with babies can meet in a quieter environment.

Little Angels meets on Fridays between fpm and 3pm. Turn up or call 522379 or 538217 for details.

Michael Wills with Little Angels

Inverary Road, Wroughton

Q

Safe, Loved & Learning

ZIP Chdd 7he

9 2uh4 gc€ica Quality education & childcare for 18 months to 5 years Open 51 weeks a year, 8atn-.6pm Full range of schedules available Qualified teachers following the nursery foundation stage

For more information and to arrange a visit, please contact Mrs I Birch on (01793) 845572

36

The Link Magazine • December 2001

BEVIRS SOLICITORS for Independent Financial Advice See us first for impartial guidance on investment and money matters

f e t

• • ^ ^„^^IIV ^V

you relax

y 0 'C. The leading name in residential prope rty management and lettings

Contact Jeremy Angell

Home Choice is a market leader in Swindon with over 100 rental prope rt ies under management, from small studio apartments to executive houses.

on 01249 814536

Our dedication to providing the

Authorised by the Law Society to conduct investment business

best possible service to our

Offices in Swindon, Wootton Bassett and Caine

WILLS Professionally drawn by

THE ANDREWS PARTNERSHIP A professionally prepared

will can avoid delay and distress for your family Home visit service: Single £49.95 • Double £69.95

Tel: (01793) 642245

Parish council brings Christmas cheer to young and old

clients is backed by a link to the Private Business Ombudsman and ARLA & NAEA

Christmas party for under 12's Saturday 1 December,12.30pm - 3pm, Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue Magician, disco, games, party tea, a visit from Santa.

Tickets from Haydon Centre reception: £3.50 per child Searching out recent senior citizens Parish councillors and members of the Haydon Wick Community Association will be carrying out the annual distribution of Christmas parcels to elderly residents of Haydon Wick parish in December.

Residents who received a parcel last year will automatically remain on the list, but the parish council would like to hear from anyone over 65 years who has recently moved into the parish or anyone who has reached that age since last Christmas. Contact Sue Martin on 722446 before 7 December.

Mince pies for over 55s

We offer our tenants and landlords peace of mind knowing that we will look after any problems they may have as quickly and skilfully as possible.

We take on as much (or as li tt le) responsibility as the landlord wants - from drawing up tenancy agreements to rent collection, right through to full management.

"' +

'

A junior club for 10 to 12 years olds is being planned for Peatmoor Community School, but a playleader is required. For details, telephone Caroline on 881613 on Monday mornings, or see the advert on page 42.

please contact us

Get in contact with the list

on 01793 431725

•i.

Community Dividend Scheme A minimum of 1% of the Society's profits are returned

Do you run a community organisation? Would it help if information about it could be provided to potential new members?

Swindon Council community worker Pam Pixton, with help from The Link, is collecting details of groups in West Swindon so that she can put people in touch with each other.

People who moved into the area in the 1980s will remember Pam or one of her predecessors tramping through the mud to their front door with a booklet of useful information on where essential services could be found, and lists of local organisations.

Although the 'welcome service' ceased, The Link has carried on the tradition of publishing contact names, addresses and telephone numbers for medical services, schools, councillors and churches in our September edition in the West & North section.

Pam's aim is to add to this information with a list of community groups covering all ages and interests. However it will not be published widely unless the group contact agrees.

If you want your group included in the West Swindon community group database, please fill in the information below and send it to Pam Pixton, Education & Community West Team, Link Centre, Whitehill Way, Swindon. r------------------- 1 West Swindon community group database I

to projects to

benefit the local the Community Dividend Scheme.

left,

For further information,

www.theandrewspartnership.co.uk

community through

r

Peatmoor community coordinator Caroline Bowles, is inviting anybody over fifty-five living in the area to a coffee and mince pies morning on Monday 10 December between 10am and 12noon.

There will be a chance to view the community facilities at Peatmoor primary school and discuss what groups and projects would be of interest to older people living in the area.

Group name Trish Poole of the Co-op, right, presents £1,000 to members of the Working for Opportunities Trust.

Swindon

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

call 0800 435902 for more information

Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

Contact person Telephone number Address (not to be given out) Group meeting place Day

♦•

Time

I

Any other details to be noted (continue on another sheet if required)

0♦^ L

--------------------J

The Link Magazine • December 2001 37

New consumer protection service planned

Blue produces gold level display at Earls Court

A recent government White Paper highlighted the fact that less knowledgeable consumers are being taken advantage of by unscrupulous and dishonest traders. r But, subject to apadvice shop in 1999 and proval by Swindon Swindon is the only to Council's ratification cal authority in the committee and receipt ° - southwest that does not of a £10,000 grant from I provide this service. the Department of During its first year of Trade and Industry, the operation the Safer Safer Swindon Shop in 4 f Swindon Shop has Havelock Street aims to taken on two new staff expand the range of Manager Jean Goncalves and increased the range services it offers to inof services on offer to elude consumer advice, on a six- include a hotline to report illegal month pilot project. motorcycling and a child safety The council shut its consumer equipment programme.

Blue, the 6 year old Bouvier des Flandres, from Haydon Wick, featured in last month's Link, lived up to his reputation of being sensible, fun loving, level headed and gorgeous as he wowed them at the Discover Dogs Exhibition at Earls Court, in early November.

Besotted owner Janet Garrett describes their weekend.

^;9

HYDROTHERAPY POOL

FOR DOGS

Swimming is suitable for all types of dogs and is especially helpful for the following conditions: Arthritis Spinal Injuries Hip/Elbow Dysplasia and Recovery from Surgery, Maintaining Fitness & Weight Loss Telephone Gill on 01793 706224 for details

PETS AT HOME Sheila Mitchell would like to wish all her customers a Happy Christmas and a successful New Year Pets at Home cares for pet needs (except dogs) in their homes - in West Swindon whilst their owners are away.

'

For details call:

Swindon 873062 j

Blue was chosen by the Kennel Club as one of nine dogs in their elite Good Citizen Gold Level Demonstration Team and performed in eight shows over the weekend, getting up on both days at 5am for the drive to London.

Taking the noise, lights, cameras and cheering in his stride, Blue faultlessly went through his paces during a 20 minute programme of tests and routines to the Washington Post march.

Blue's size and unusual appearance made him a favourite with the crowd who stroked and cuddled him, all wanting to know how long it takes him to learn an exercise, how much he eats, where he sleeps, his likes and dislikes and lots and lots of other questions.

By the Sunday evening, as Earls Court started to close its doors and the hundreds of stall holders were packing up, I thought Blue would be flagging - my own feet were very reluctant to start the long walk to the car park. As he had been so incredibly well behaved and in the limelight for 2 days I thought I would buy him a very nice ball

THE DROVE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

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

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

Saturday

12noon - 3pm

Veterinary Clinic

Shaw Vi ll age Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS • Stefania Glowka DVM MRCVS Michelle Lindsay BVM&S MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm

Saturday

9.00am - 4.00pm

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Helping you care more for your pet

Thameswood are

Greenbridge

enr(

L

"•z° ' Thameswood .. , . Small Animal Hospital

Thameswood the opening of another purpose built veterinary clinic for their clients in East Swindon, on

C

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital - Telephone (01793) 522483

pleased to announce

^"

0

from one of the stalls still open. As I chose it, his eyes suddenly lit up and he gently took it from my hand.

Whilst I was paying Blue started to play football backwards and forwards on the Earls Court carpet.

To the delight of all around, an eight stone Bouvier des Flandres was treating us to a one dog game of football, dribbling and tossing the ball in the air. Perhaps he had got used to performing for a crowd.

Whatever it was he got another round of whistles, cheering and applause as I put him on his lead, picked up my bags, aching feet forgotten, we trotted side by side into the London night.

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

GREAT WESTERN WAY

TOMA,_,^o ROUNDABOUT

THAMESWOOD

oXFOAo WA SMITH 0apKESwpY.

Industri al Estate in Stratton (near WH Smiths)) Excellent on site parking • 24 hour emergency service Excellent facilities • Caring professional service • ambulance service Pet products, egfood, wormers, flea products, collars and leads caEeNeA

RD

CONSULTATIONS BY APPOINTMENT Monday to Friday 9am - l0am, 2pm - 3pm, 5pm - 6.30pm Saturday 9am - Ilam

38

The Link Magazine • December 2001

U6

LACK

The Adult Placement Service are looking to recruit experienced people to provide respite opportunities in their own homes for adults with physical disabilities.

INTERESTED? Please call Hannah or Nicky on 01793 486210 for further details

Swmnon

=o ,

'Link Wheels' to spin for

Twins revival one year old

Swindon Council is reviewing provision for skateboarders in a major report to go before the Equalities, Community and Health CommisFamilies involved with the West sion on 17 December. Whether the council has the cash to go ahead Swindon Twins Club celebrated with building sites across the town remains to be seen. its first anniversary since it reBut, hopefully, youngsters in West Swindon will have somewhere to formed last year with a party at skateboard by Christmas. In a presentation to the West area panel Upper Shaw Farm social hall on councillors on 1 November, Martin Hawes from the west education and 20 October. community team, described a pilot project supervised by trained youth Parents get together on the first workers and volunteers to run on three sessions a week in the Link Monday of the month at the DeCentre coach park. Funding would be provided from under spent signer Village Toybox Junction budgets resulting from unfilled youth work positions. creche.

He told councillors that far from being a fad, skateboarding has been New parents and also expectant around for years and youngsters are desperate for somewhere to go. He mums, wherever they live, are weladded that skateboarders would be involved in building ramps for the come to join. The next meeting Link Wheels project. They would be inspected to RoSPA standards and takes place on 3 December to be locked away when not in use. followed by a Christmas party on At a meeting the evening before, local youngsters reacted enthusias17 December. For details, call Chartically to the idea. "We've been asking for decent places to skate and use lotte Corfield on 881015.

Graham McCallion

Double joy for Twins Club parents

Tenth year for kids care club

PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIA

The Barn, 116 High Street Blunsdon, Swindon

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? Winter tidy up!

W,,ten d•taiJS on ,.Quest

• Locally run family business • Close board/panel or picket fencing & gates • Repairs & refurbishment • Concrete posts available on panel fencing • Made to measure gates • Pressure injected timber treatment on all close board • Friendly help and advice on all fencing matters Unit 67. Pcmbmkc Centre, Chcnct Manor. Su-indon

GARDEN DOCTORS LANDSCAP ING LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board/ Panels/Gates • Block Paving • Patios, Paths, Turfing • Hedging & Mowing • Trained team n Fully insured For free quotation

Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139

Pruning, planting Ornamental gravel All types of fencing

No job too small

Call for a free quote john & Ann Wadsworth 01666 860400

LAI iDSCAPI iG GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up • Drives & patios - slabs, concrete, block paving • Turfing & grass seeding • Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

• Ponds & pergolas Contact 01793 692687 IMobile 07711 253508

Mr ROTAVATOR A

Creative Gardens Tel: 01103

LAWN & HEDGE CUTTING GENERAL GARDEN CLEARANCE FENCE STAINING & MAINTENANCE

Give your garden a makeover Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556 e-mail: gardengroomer@aol.com www.g arden- groomers .co.uk

Get your garden fit

702076 A

For all landscaping needs: patios,ponds, block paving, fencing, clearance, free estimates, competitive rates, big or small - we do it all! mrrotavator@hotmail.com

Present and past children and staff at Westlea After School Club celebrated its tenth year with a party on 16 November.

Established as the second of its kind in Swindon, the club provides working parents with high quality after school and before school care.

It also operates daily during school holidays.

Survival has become a challenge for the club. Having received a grant from Swindon Council since it opened, although diminishing for the last few years, from next April it will have to keep going without any financial support.

"In the past we have been able to keep prices low for parents," said club supervisor Cherry Hobbs.

"We've had to raise our rates and go in for a lot of fundraising to see our way forward. Hopefully we will be successful with a lottery application next year.

"The success of the club is to do with our good relationship with Westlea School, the great staff, the happy atmosphere and of course, lovely children. We're going to survive for many years to come."

To find out about places, call 0777 302 7583.

AM

SHIPS

2,2,3,4,5 yards capacity 5 days given to fill skip 2.3 ton ne Mini-digger for hire i

Freephone 0800 - 387613 Tel: 731610 Sam - 8pm

The Link Magazine • December 2001 39

West skateboarders

West Swindon youngsters looking forward to a safe skateboard site

bikes for years and the council have done nothing," said one.

Parent Dawn Tremblin from Freshbrook said she hoped the project will be successful. "The kids need somewhere safe to go where they won't always be moved on."

Co p a RABBIT & SMALL ANIMAL HUTCHES LOG CABIN HUTCHES 36" £50.00 48" £60.00 DOUBLE DECKERS 36" £65.00 48" £85.00 Wide range of small animal pens

{

NEW Rabbit Room now open

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon Tel: 01 793 51 2400 Fax: 01 793 51 2444

-

ee

reindeer Mount2

40

The Link Magazine • December 2001

Shakespeare's stage to become a sack with help from The Link magazine William Shakespeare will soon be learnt as never before, thanks to youngsters from Greendown School working with guidance from Neil Griffiths, director of the National Story Sacks Project, with financial backing from The Link.

Each sack is based on a chil- that primary school children enjoy oping sacks for older children; The students ranging in age from Shakespeare's characters are won12 to 15 years are studying for dren's book and contains a game, a Shakespeare."

Neil is delighted that Green- derful and his stories are perfect to their GCSE Expressive Arts in an tape, puppets and scenery to illusdown is taking up the challenge of be told this way. Tim and the stuafter-school club and have set trate the story. themselves the task of building a They are used in pre-school and putting the bard into a story sack. dents have so much enthusiasm; Story Sack based on Shakespeare's classroom settings to promote "I've always had a dream of devel- this is going to be fantastic."

Macbeth - the first time anybody early years' literacy. In other coun- Link publisher Roger Ogle hands Tim Noble a cheque to pay for the materials for has attempted to present the bard's tries they have been developed to the Macbeth story sack, with Neil Griffiths, centre, and the ground breaking convey cultural messages. work in this way.

Shakespeare Sack crecc The Shakespeare Sack will be Story Sacks, invented by former '% Westlea School headteacher Neil aimed at primary school and year -1 , with assistance from parent vol- 7 children and contain a model ' ' t' j unteers, has become a world class Globe theatre, scenery such as 7' education project and are now in Macbeth's castles, the famous wak } use throughout the UK and sixty ing wood and puppets of the char acters so that children can act out other countries. x :: • and understand the play. The stu dents are also planning a video to illustrate how the sack can be used.

Expressive Arts teacher Tim Noble said the success of the West Swindon Shakespeare Festival in 2000, which involved 15 schools was the inspiration for the Story The world's finest hearing aids Sack project. "The festival proved at the most competitive prices.

Teachers' `Oscars' recognise achievement Home visits without charge Earlier this year eight year old Ellen Howard from Westlea School Ironing a chore? nominated or obligation. her class teacher Anne Wang for a Lifetime Achievement Special terms for over 60s.

Not any more!

Award. Having won the regional section, Anne was invited to LonThirty day full money back guarantee. don for a weekend of celebration at the end of October, culminating Ironing done in a smoke free in a ceremony at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Ian Howard, Ellen's environment at sensible rates Tel: 01793 870047 father, a teacher himself, recounts an excellent and inspirational Call Jackie on 721878 6 Romney Way, The Laurels, evening. or Donna on 721719 Shaw, Swindon, SN5 5QB Ellen and I left Swindon on Sun- the awards ceremony. It is so easy day 28 October, full of excitement to be cynical about our achieveabout the evening ahead. The traf- ments as teachers as we are there fic was light and I was delighted to for the children and not ourselves.

(Z ctd ) be able to park on the street outside the Ritz in Piccadily for free!

A small selection of our quality used motor vehicles At the theatre we met Mrs Wang £8,995 00 W Vectra 1 .8 Club, 5dr, a/c, alloys, e/w, c/I, CD who told us all about the weekend £5,995 99 V Ford Fiesta 1 .25 1 6V Ghia, met black, a/c, s/r with its lunches, workshops and £6,995 99 S Proton 1.8 Coupe, met green, PAS, alloys opportunities for the winners to £4,995 98 S Ford Ka 2, met blue, PAS, c/I, e/w meet and exchange stories. £5,495 985 Peugoet 106 Zest 3, 3dr, met blue, PAS, e/w, c/I The auditorium is very grand £6.495 98 R Vectra 1.8 GLSi, a/c, c/I, PAS, met blue, 34k FSH and a fitting venue for the awards.

Gradually the seats filled with £2,995 97 R Rover Ascot SE, 5dr, c/I, r/c, met blue, teachers and dignitaries. Appro£4,995 97 R Rover 214 Si, 5 dr, purple, 30k, 2 owners priately education minister Estelle £4;695 97 P Ford Escort 1.8 SI, 5 dr, white, PAS, e/w, c/I etc Morris sat amongst us. £2,695 97 P Citroen AX Spree, 3dr, 5spd, s/r, met green TV personality Carol Smiley £5,495 97 P Toyota Corolla 1.6, CD. 5dr, a/c, c/I, met blue compared the evening, making £3,995 97 P Suzuki Baleno 1 .6GS Auto, PAS, red, 26k, FSH everyone feel at ease. Celebrities £2,995 96 P Ford Escort 1 .3 Encore, 5dr, blue People often say, "well it's a were wheeled on to make the pres£3,995 96 P Peugoet 106 XND 1.5, red, 3dr, FSH entations including Michael vocation isn't it?" But we need ap£2,995 95 N Mondeo 1 .8 LX, 5dr, PAS, e/w, c/I, s/r, met green Parkinson, Alistair McGowen, Sol preciation as much as anyone else £3,995 95 N Rover 416 Si, 5dr, blue, e/w, c/I, PAS Campbell, Sue Johnston and Ralph and this is especially true after a 95 N Citroen AX Debut, 1.0 3dr, met green, 1 owner, FSH £1,995 generation of bashing and underFiennes. £2,995 95 M Mondeo 1.8 LX Auto, 5dr, blue, e/w, c/I, PAS The evening went very quickly valuation by governments. We 94 L Mondeo 1.8 LX, 5dr, 1 owner, met blue, 61 k, FSH £2,995 with the ten awards given out and need to see that we are very skilled £4,995 some excellent speeches made. workers who hold a key position 93 K Volvo 940 2.0 Turbo Wentworth Est, 5 dr, red Teachers rarely get the national for the next generation of young 92 J BMW 525 Tourer Est SE, manual, met blue, 5dr, a/c £4,995 stage to speak their minds and adults. I was inspired to try new £3,995 91 J BMW 520 24v. Auto, Brockade met, 4 dr, alloys some pointed remarks were made and radical things that I had seen work in other parts of the country. well as the usual thank you's.

103 Chippenham Road, Lyneham, Wiltshire asMrs Wang did not win in her But above all, I will now look for category, neither did the two teach- opportunities to put forward colTel: 01249 891400 ers from Swindon's Kingsdown leagues inside teaching and others Mobile: 07711 861978 Mobile: 07813 343436 School. However, this was not in different jobs, for awards that e-mail: akerscarcentre@lineone.net • Http:/akerscarcentre.freehosting.net important as they had already been will affirm all that they try to do to inspire those around them to even recognised by being there. .

Most major credit cards accepted • Licensed Credit Brokers (details upon request) I must say how inspired I was by greater things.

/4't4 eat e&li

The Link Magazine • December 2001 41

Ancient Egypt a puppet state

Down Mexico way

Greenmeadow Primary School pupils were introduced to the mysteries of Ancient Egypt in early November when Bristol based puppeteer Francis O'Loughlan presented the story of Setna and the Book of Troth, a play based on actual events mixed with tales of magic and adventure, much of it taken from original ancient manuscripts.

Brook Field primary school took on a Central American flavour in October when year two children studied Mexico to find out how it differs from this country.

As part of their geography topic the children held a Mexican day, dressing up in costumes, experienced traditions like the pinata and tasting Mexican food with help from two parents.

"I liked the food and making masks," said Adina Nyahwa, 6, from Nine Elms.

"We have also made a balloon with sweets in it and we are going to pop it."

Teaching assistant Caryn Puffett said, "the day made our studies far more interesting than just learning from books; it really brought Mexico alive In the Mexican way, Adina for them."

Nyahwa and Christopher Jones

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work = * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience ^?

(No VF topay) rt{i Francis O'Louglin,from left, Greenmeadow pupils on the Egy' Daniel Aston, Bethany Gwyther, Bet/ian Valters, Chris Nixon

CALt` ERAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

GARY WILKINSON

Headteacher Diane Pritchard said the experience was an excellent way of studying Ancient Egypt as part of the national curriculum.

Not only was the history presented in a visual manner, but Francis showed the fascinated children how his puppets work and how he achieves special effects. This was particularly beneficial since creativity and the arts feature prominently in the school's development plan.

In the classroom teachers entered into the spirit of the project by roleplaying professors explaining how a body is mummified.

A new service for FIAT & Alfa Romeo owners

Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying M.o.T. Repairs and Welding Free Estimates Unit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon

$ 01793 421 125

$ 0860 8080

R. M.I. F. MEMBER

V.S. I. B.

A PROVED

OPTIMA Hawksworth Industrial Estate, Swindon (Close to the Oasis Leisure Centre)

P

Offering: + servicing + electrical repairs + MoT repairs + cam belt replacements + brake & clutch repairs

39b Station Road, Wootton Bassett

A * Off RRP - valid when special offer applies On production of this voucher

CARS

•

VANS ® CLASS 7 , DIESEL

(Opposite St Ivel)

Tel: (01793) 840667

RELIABILITY 0 VALUE

0 SERVICE

42

The Link Magazine • December 2001

COUNSELLING Stressed, lacking in confidence or interested in personal growth? £15 to £20 a session Contact: Trudy, 341704 or Maria, 870878

Cuts & Curls Ladies hairdressing 20 years experience Call Debbie: 01 793 881427 < or 07790 432012 < Evening & weekend appointments available

NEW CREATIVE PASTIME?

Massage

Teacher of piano & theory in West Swindon All ages, beginners & elementary players welcome Contact Mrs G Bush CT ABRSM

Aromathererapy I NNER SMILE

Reflexology

HOLISTIC THERAPIES Therapist: Gayle I.C.H.T. Tel: 01793 724521 or

Swindon 873012

0771 448 6905 Ram--9pm

New minister for Abbey Meads Brian Sweetman was welcomed by the congregation at the Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads on 17 November.

Although inducted into the church seventeen years ago, Brian has spent the last year on work experience as a funeral assistant.

Married to Sue, with two children, Esther and Mark, Brian is looking forward to consolidating the work by Maureen Spinks to establish the church in the North Swindon expansion.

"My vision for the area is simply 'to show and tell' of the love of Christ," he said. "This acceptance of Jesus that expresses itself in joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness and faithfulness, gentleness and self control. This is so differ-

ent to the unhappiness, inner turmoil, rage, selfishness and excesses we experience too often."

Brian can be contacted at the church at the village centre or at the church house on 706558.

Youngsters design rail safety messages One unit cools in summer - heats in winter Cooling only, or heating and cooling air conditioning units supplied, installed & serviced

Caswell Refrigeration Ltd Also specialists in all aspects of commercial refrigeration Unit 3 Cannons Ind. Est., Station Rd, Wootton Bassett, Swindon

Tel: 01793 840401 Fax: 01793 840402 Call now for a free no obligation quotation Approved dealers for Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi and Carrier

Students from Headlands and Ridgeway Schools are creating posters and marketing messages designed to make railways safer.

Railtrack has commissioned Swindon Arts Community Fund to come up with striking images to convey safety information.

Mike Juggins and Sue Deedigan of

Kandu Arts are working with students on artwork and drama.

Swindon's

Studying safety on the platform at Swindon station, back from left, Mike Juggins, David Barrett, Robert Harrison, Patrick Lusty. Front, teaching assistant Vicky Silver, Rachel Sellers, Phillippa Harrison, Rosa Harrison, Ryan Hunt

carpet cleaning

ffl

professional ready

W

to help * Fully trained and o insured operators * Commercial rates available * Dupont Stainshield Protects against

spills and dirt * Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh * Professional spotting kits available Stain removal made easy

VACANCIES r

` su

`

^a ^

et house C y our

`+

ill for S.

hrlstmCI

* Anti Allergy Treatment For asthma & allergy sufferers * We move furniture * Satisfaction guaranteed

Phone now for free no obligation quotation on

01793 - 870756 ULTRA CLEAN (WILTSHIRE) Open: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 7.00pm • Sat 9.00am - 1.00pm.

Emmanuel Church, High Street, Haydon Wick

Cleaner for the church premises £20 for up to 4 hours work.

Tel: Sue Martin on 722446 or 721552

TEMPORARY

Play leader & play worker for Junior Youth Club (10-12 years) £4.80 - £7.13 per hour Tel: 881613 (Monday am) for details Peatmoor Community Facilities Peatmoor Community Prima ry School

TEACHER FOR YEAR S 5/6

Peatmoor Community Primary School is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic temporary teacher to work in Years 5 & 6 for four days per week from February half term to cover maternity leave.

t^^

A job share will be considered to teach specific subjects in morning/afternoon sessions.

Additional hours are available for marking English.

Please phone Mrs Peacock. Tel: 01793 887473 for further information.

Visits are welcome.

Peatmoor Community Primary School, Pepperbox Hill, P eatmoor

The Link Magazine • December 2001 43

For Sale

For Sale

For Sale

Di Blasi folding bicycle used once, unwanted prize, cost £360, sell £225, no offers. Tel: 872136 Raleigh Max, green bike, 19" frame, suit 10-14 yr old, 21 gears, £80. Tel:

Antique pine double bed frame, excel condition, £110 ono. Tel: 871635 Single bed, £30. Two wardrobes, £10 each. Tel: 639730 Kitchen table and six chairs, £30. Tel:

Fridge larder, Hotpoint, almond & brown, good condition, £40. buyer collects. Tel: 638779 Tricity fridge, good condition, £20.

Large oak mirror, £20. Emperor grandfather clock, £400. Tel: 421716 Phillips teamaker, HD7105 in excellent working order, £10. Tel: 531699 Hotpoint fridge freezer, good working condition, £80. Tel: 879097 Camp bed/garden lounger, £6. B & w portable TV, good working order, £10.

Tel: 488771 Hydro spa system for relaxing massage, ease aches and pains in bath, £200 ono. Tel: 347404 Xerox work centre XD 102 desk top laser printer and photo copier, as new, boxed with manuals and receipts, under guarantee, cost £800, bargain £250.

Tel: 882868 Smith Corona XL1 500 electronic typewriter in excel condition, £25. Betacom answerphone in good working order, £6. Tel: 531699 Play station, one 4 games memory card, 2 controls. £50. Tel: 638779 Epiphone Lespaul electric guitar, vgc, cherry sunburst, £200 ono. Tel: 524010 Guitar amp Marshall Valvestate 100 mint condition, £250 ono. Tel: 524010 21" Ferguson colour TV, £30 ono. 12" b & w TV, £10 ono. Battery charger, new, for carbon nickel batteries, £8.

Small ladies weekend case, blue, extending handle, 15" x 20" x 10", new, £5.

New digital dome gold coloured clock. £10 ono. Ross digital head phones, new, £6 ono. Tel: 636618 Video recorder, Phillips, remote control, 4 years old, hardly used, £50. Tel:

724153

639730

Boys bike, suit 6-9 year old, 5 gears, vgc, £35. Tel: 887928 Boys Raleigh Pursuit cycle, 19.5" frame, 10 gears, £35. Tel: 524010 Saracen Hy-Lander Hyrbrid cycle, 19" frame, 21 gears, ideal for leisure/commuting, £90. Tel: 524010 Raleigh Elan sport cycle, 21" frame, 12 gears, £100 ono. Tel: 524010 Raleigh FizzerGups bike, suit6-8 years, perfect condition, £30 ono. Tel: 823853 Ladies shopping cycle, vgc, £40 ono.

Tel: 534426 Bikes, 2 girls mountain bikes, suit 9-13 yrs, vgc, £25 each, £40 pair. Tel: 535458 Sturdy child's bike, suit 3-6 yrs, hardly used, cost £65, sell £25. Tel: 481004 Children's cycle helmets, vgc, mauve age 11-15, £5, white age 8-11, £5. Tel:

Teak unit, 6ft, Ind drink cabinet, display, drawers, cupboard, good cond, £95 ono. Tel: 729942 Mahogany two drawer hall table, £25.

Wall clock, long case, £25. Coat stand, £20. Tel: 484423 Three piece suite, green patterned, £100 ono. Tel: 723763.

White net single bed canopy, v pretty, new £30, sell at £5. Tel: 488771 Pine framed 3 seater settee, yellow blue pattern, ideal for conservatory/ child's room. £50 ono. Tel: 639066 Real velvet curtains, beautiful, nearly new, each curtain, w 95", d 57", dark green. £10. Tel: 488771 Sofa bed, foam flop-out style, blue tartan cover with matching cushions, £25.

Tel: 481275 IKEA dining room furniture, in pine/ lacquer / red stain: large (190x90cm) dining room table +6 chairs, 2 cabinets, lower part with solid doors, upper part with glass doors, all for£99. Tel: 887886 Cream satin quilted bed throw & two matching pillow shams, £25. Tel: 547009 (pm & wkend) Stone washed oak kitchen unit doors, 2 x 600, 2 x 400, 3 x 500, 2 x 600 appliance doors, 720 height. never used, £60. Tel: 886984 Mahogany table to seat six, 4 chairs, green seats, 2 carvers, £220 ono. Tel:

728732

Ride on tractor trailer, 6 volt, 2yrs- 7 yrs, £80. Tel: 872531 Silver Cross pram with pushchair. sun canopy, raincover, £50. Teak desk, already dismantled, £10. Tel: 886770 Nest egg car seat, 0-9 months, good condition, £10. Tel: 534426 Dolls rocking cradle with canopy, excellent condition, £5. Tel: 534426 Mamas and Papas dolls pushchair, blue and green check, matching changing bag, £12. Tel: 534426 Child's garden swing, excellent condition, £10. Tel: 639066 Two pushchairs umbrellafolding large rain cover and white parasol, £10 for all three. Tel: 339686 Brownie uniform including T shirt, sweatshirt, skirt, cap, £12. Riding boots, size 2, £10. Tel: 349346 Black leather trousers, ladies size 12, high waist, straight leg, £35. Coat duffle style, size 12, £30. Tel: 873573 Dinner jacket, chest 38in, trousers waist 32in, leg 31 in, colour black, excellent condition, £35. Tel: 531162 Dresses and tops 20/22, various individual styles and colours, £2 to £5. Tel: 771940

Ladies clothes, size 12, skirts, suits, blouses, trousers, dresses, jackets, £3£6. Tel: 706765 Wedding dress, full length white satin and lace, size 10-12, £50. Tel: 872531 Old Victorian iron bedstead, single, £10. Tel: 701748 r

613132

Immaculate high backed chair with wooden arms, clover upholstery, as new, £45. Tel: 339481 Headboard, blue, double bed size. clean, £5. Tel: 339481 Double divan, £50. Two foam folding chair beds, £10 each. Double Z-bed £40. Tel: 638020 3 seater settee, sage green in reasonable condition, £35. Tel: 870695 Two wardrobes, dressing table, dining table, writing bureau, glass cabinet, £5 each. Tel: 724615 Futon double, one year old, £80. Single standard mattress, £60. Tel: 875648 Kirby vacuum cleaner, £100 ono. Tel: 639730

Electric knife, 2 blades, £3. Wood 3 tier extending ladders, £12. Half moon hall table, mahogany colour, £6. Tel: 488771 Cooker, white, with lid, good condition, £50. Colour portable TV, £15. Tel: 336293

Free private for Sale & Wanted ads

®

Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 12th of the month I

I I

876750

Video recorder, Hitachi, £30. Tel: 339481

Greenhouse, aluminium, 8' x 6', with base, staging heater, water butt, £80 ono. Tel: 630987 20 garden slabs, (60cm x 60 cm), free to whoever can collect them. Tel 336293" Suzuki scooterAY50W 1999 excel condition, 1296 miles, £750 ono. Tel: 878034

Yamaha T80 (Townmate), vgc, N reg, 11,000 miles, £150 ono. Tel: 812703 Maestro K reg, 29,000 miles, road tax, Feb 02, MOT Oct 02, vgc, £1,700 ono.

Tel: 639730 Fiat Cinquecento:900,'95 N reg, white, 42k, 1 yr MOT, new full exhaust, cheap insurance & tax, vgc, £1,650 ono. Tel: 833011

Benelli K2 50cc scooter, black, less than 3000 miles, recently serviced, ideal for commuting, £1050. Tel: 771854

or other bakes from Fair Cape Confectioners Home baked and deliciously moist.

Prices £5 - £20 Contact Marion on 01793 877872

Fair Cape Cuisine Home cooked roast dinners, lasagne, chicken pies, variety of curries etc. frozen or hot delivered to your door Prices from £3 to £5 Contact Marion on 01793 877872

Play the Piano Learn to Sing Phone Swindon 340437 for further information

JAN'S MOBILE

HAIRDRESSING NEW TO AREA Ladies, gents and wriggling children!

20 years experience Competitive Rates • Excellent Service Call Jan on Swindon 706786

Therapeutic Massage Indian Head Massage Stress & anxiety • Insomnia Muscular tension • Concentration

PMS • Headaches/migraine

Julie Satchell IIHHT ITECDip Tel: 01793 886291 Mobile: 07714 916086 Home visits available

Auto Climate Control

MOBILE AUTO AIR CONDITIONING Se rv ice and repair at home or work on cars, coaches, trucks & tractors

Call 01793 82 22 20 or 0794 603 6307 for free advice and estimates CITE Registered • INSTVAC Member

Grass cutting Hedge trimming Gardens tidied

(^

Odd jobs, fence repairs, etc Sensible prices

Room to let Double room in family home, colour I TV, Westlea, £250 pcm, inclusive of bills, except telephone. Tel: 344332 I Large single room for professional person, Grange Park, £70 a week inclusive. Tel: 872531

I I

Wanted Odd job man for occasional work, Abbey Meads area, suit active retired perI son. Tel: 706644 Name & Address (not for publication) Paul Daniels "easy learn" Spanish language tapes. Tel: 771174 L-_----------------------J

Tel:

I

Order your Christmas cake now

I

Chris Reed: 538839 or mobile: 07702 285865

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

SERVICE

44

ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY

`GRA'

ACCOUNTANCY

ro Tnx Al.

• Business Start Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax

AERI AL SE RVICES Aerial & Television Services

Di

• TV & FM aerials

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping

Short & long term assistance and projects

PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

Free initial meeting Tel/fax: 01 793 871 790 Free phone: 0800 5422 778

www.graaccountancy.co.uk

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

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPENTRY/JOIN ERY

Hillside Building Services

Palm Joinery

`

* Doors, internal & external * Skirtings & mouldings * Fitted wardrobes & kitchens * Supply & fit/fit only

Tel/fax: 01793 721401

DEC ORATOR

DECORATOR

decorator

Free no obligation quotation and survey

GK

ba 'troorus) sfiowe s, S C^E,GCPXG{.G prop-EY y/ ve&tfc

Tel: 01793 886947 Mob: 0780 3432312

DECORATORS Tel:01793 701394 Mobile: 0790 0216618

966

5 years experience. All work guaranteed

Tel: 01793 702601 Mobile: 07774 943 783

CLEANING

C LEANING

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured

OVENU DIRTY OVEN? Don't worry ... Help is at hand Our fully trained team will restore your oven, hobs, microwaves and extractor hoods to a nearly new standard

• Quickly usable

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

Non-toxic • Non- caustic • Bio-degradable

Call OVENU today for free quot (01793) 831 944

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

ELECTRICIAN GG

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST • CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out

Tel: 01793 828882

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations R.g.128 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

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

John Phillips Se rv icing `

• No call out charge

PL UMBING & HEATING

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

All work guaranteed

° o o

Quality Plumbing & Heating deco{ "-) at )

No call out charge

MGC Bm L

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

Pa i't g) ' '

• Video & TV repairs • Signal amplifiers

DRAINS

Interior & exterior painting and decorating Coving • Dado rails

PROPERTY R EPAIRS

• Extra satellite points

cff Whitevwa

Quality carpentry & joinery for the home

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

Highly experience painter and

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

REMOVALS/STORAGE ABBEY MOVE

REMOVALS & STORAGE Single items * Full house

Storage specialists Packing service *- Late bookings

Tel: (01793) 727307 Mob: 0781 1 188564 24 hours • 7 days www.abbeymove.co.uk

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

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294 Ramleaze, Swindon

SUNBED HIRE Deb's

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

Tel: Swindon 726906 anytime (Mobile 07778 - 641052)

SECTOR APPLIANCE REPAIRS

45

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

iifl! t

I • Most leading

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines

brands • Guaranteed repairs

Twin Tubs, etc.

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

Member

of

BUILDING SERVICES

GRAFT Buildings, t) extensions, paving, porches, garages, conversions Any alterations

Garden construction & design Fencing - new and repairs to wind damage

No call out charge • No VAT

We offer a complete building service for your home & garden

A SUDS

For good quality with efficient service & competitive prices

• Same day service,

BUILDING SE RV ICES Hall & Son Ltd A reputation built on quality Traditional carpentry & building services Kitchens, loft conversions, stairs, doors, building work, bedroom fitments, domestic & commercial works undertaken Free, no obligation quotations

Call 01793 644313

Call 01793 485539/07811 698457

CONSERVATORIES

DEBT COLLECTOR

West Wiltshire

MERLIN DEBT COLLECTION SERVICE

Windows - Doors Conservatories Quality double glazed

windows, doors and conservatories For a free, no obligation quote at your convenience, call 01793 873424 or 07968 355557

ELECTRICAL /PLUMBING

`Your answer to those customers who just don't like paying!'

• Overdue accounts & debt recovery • Low cost litigation • 'No recovery — Minimal charge'

industrial installations Maintenance & repairs

• Domestic & commercial • Specialist finishes • Free estimates

A quality finish at reasonable rates Tel: 01793-874139 e-mail: paulexton@lineone.net

I GUTTERING

Brilliant white fasciasUmonth -6

The very best quality system for longer durability fitted by the partners for over 15 years

Locally run family business All work guaranteed • Cover or replacement Unit 67 Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

UPVC CLADDIN G

Tel: 01793 349704 Mobile 07904 142692

Offering a high standard of work with references available.

• Professional painting & decorating services • Interior and exterior

Mobile: 07780 793253

National inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting

Ceramic tiling Walls and floors Kitchens - Bathrooms Conservatories C u h/1ty frnLch .ill w&rkguaranteed ^ree estimates

Pea SwiKJo s

or 870515 eves.

* security lighting

TiteSure ••0.6696••••••

korses in

PAUL EXTON

Tel: 01793 887366

st garden electrics ar heating r bathroom installation

..............

p4iatiw4 446 Jecot•4tU$q

Licensed by the Office of Fair Trading for Debt Collection

* lighting * rewiring

Tel: (01793) 874480 Mob: 07860 760364

Celet s 4.tiltg 15 years

DECORATOR

Telephone for a free estimate: 07774 - 208527 days

service available

Shaw Electrical & Plumbing Ltd Domestic, commercial &

DECORATOR

or 07768 271994

PAUL DRAPER uPVC Fascia, Gu

tt ering & Cladding CLADDING

FASCIAS

NG & PLU

I HOUSE MAINTENANCE

ROB HALL

McGill Mairfesance

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

All aspects of property repair and

Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs, bathroom and power showers All areas of plumbing

Tel: 07989 950070 or 01793 339546 ,g:1876 0 „ WILL WRIT I NG

WDS Associates & Co The West's No. I Specialists

Estab li shed 1992 Over 35,000 wills completed

• Home visit service

® GUTTERING

* FREE ESTIMATES *

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

• EPA & storage ^^ For more information and to arrange an appointment Tel: (01793) 693161 or 0800 0562015 www.wdsassociates.co.uk

maintenance, painting and

decorating, tiling, of o^ carpentry, fps^^^ gardening, fencing and patios.

Any odd repairs '' Call now for a competitive quote.

Tel: 01793 635187 Mobile: 07890 843259 Email: t.mcgilll@ntlworld.com

WILL WRITI NG Savernake Will Writing Service 'Give your family the security of knowing you have w ritten a legally valid will.'

• Convenient • Value for money • Home visit service Single Will : £45.00 Mirror Wills: £65.00

Tel: 01793 887366

The Link Magazine • December 2001

46

CHURCH SERVICES THIS CHRISTMAS North Swindon Baptist Church Greenmeadow Primary School Sunday 23rd 10.30am Christmas Family Service Sunday 23rd 6.30pm Christmas Carol Service Abbey Meads Community School Tuesday 25th 10.30am Christmas Day Service Emmanuel URC, Haydon Wick Monday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Church Of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads Village Centre Christingle Service Sunday 16th 4pm Family Service. Show and tell/bring a present Tuesday 25th 10am St Andrews, Blunsdon Communion Service Tuesday 25th 9am Emmanuel United Reformed Church, High Street, Haydon Wick 10.45am Junior Church Christmas Service Sunday 9th Sunday 23rd 10.45am Family Carol Service Monday 24th 11.30pm Candlelit Midnight Communion Service Tuesday 25th 11 am Christmas Celebration St John's Haydon Wick, Thames Avenue - Next to Safeway 4pm Christingle Service Sunday 9th Carols for All Ages Sunday 16th 11 am United Carol Service with Emmanuel URC Sunday 23rd 6pm Monday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day all age service.

Tuesday 25th 10am

BC The person who changed AD History is changing peoples lives Today o p

^

y vange/,.

Worsley Road

,^,

mmm n

m= m ^, m ^__

building with people Come and join us Sunday at 10am & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

NS

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH SUNDAYS 10.30AM THE WINNERS LOUNGE SWINDON TOWN F.C. PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTREI NOW... WE ARE BACK ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT LINK CENTRE For more information, inclu. midweek activities, call Brian on 849731 in association with

Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road Christmas Choir Evening Saturday 15th 7pm Family Service Sunday 23rd 10am Sunday 23rd 6.30pm Carol Service A service of thanksgiving Tuesday 25th 10am A creche is available on the Sunday for both services All Saints, Lydiard Millicent Sunday 16th 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve Family Service Monday 24th 5pm Monday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Holy Communion Monday 25th 8am Tuesday 25th 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service At Peatmoor Community School Christingle Sunday 2nd 4pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Sunday 16th 10.30am Nativity Service Sunday 16th 6.30pm Carol Service Sunday 23rd 10.30am Carol Service Crib Service Monday 24th 3pm Monday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Tuesday 25th 10.30am Christmas Day Family Communion St Marys Church, Lydiard Tregoze (the Church in the Park) Sunday 16th 10am Nativity Sunday 16th 6.30pm Carol Service Crib Service Monday 24th 3pm Monday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day Family Communion Tuesday 25th 10am Toothill Church, Toothill Village Centre Sunday 16th 10.45am Nativity Sunday 23rd 10.45am Carol Service Christingle Sunday 23rd 4pm Midnight Communion Service Monday 24th 11pm Christmas Day Family Service Tuesday 25th 10am Westlea Church, Westlea School Sunday 16th 10am Nativity Sunday 23rd 6.30pm Carol Service Crib Service Monday 24th 3pm Christmas Day Family Service Tuesday 25th 10am

NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Greenmeadow Primary School I

We are here!

OCAS CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Vi llage & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am: (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre): 874221 St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 10:00am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

North Swindon Baptist Church

Sunday Worship 10.30am - Sunday School & Creche -

Web: http://nsbc.org.uk

Pastor Dennis Weaver

TEL: (01793) 345051

go.

Eo

a3 y w

U

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

iI "iI iTiTi (I vw^ Baca c

rtinp.1 (

M

Santa will be at The Brunel Centre right up until Christmas Eve so bring the children and have their photo taken with him.

It makes a great start to Christmas and a wonderful gift for grandma, grandpa or other family and friends.

The photo is processed instantly, so there's no waiting.

For more information just ask at the Customer Relations Desk or call 01793 525857

D

'I1 t1