December 2006 Swindon Link

EDITION @ www.swindonlink.com No. 295 December 2006 • Circulation 26,000

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WW 'J.SWInuflO...i11A111!..i..cOt11 A Happy (2 hristrnas to all our readers from the positive newsforce in Swindon

What's green and good for our town?

There's a warm seasonal

Exhibition looks back at Mr B and looks forward at Swindon

Lower Shaw Farm. But Swindon Council wants to sell it for housing.

See pages 2 & 3

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Leader talks of a vision

Respect to Billie for putting in the hours at book signing

A back issue of The Link brought back memories of home town life for Billie Piper as she signed copies of her autobiography, Growing Pains at Asda Walmart at the end of October, Says Barbara Prothero.

Council leader Rod Bluh beIn her book, she describes her signing event. "Wow, lieves Swindon, to survive in the firstbreak, an audition at the Sylvia that's really old," she said. future, not only has to maintain Young Theatre School in London. "Is that me? That's really its economic success, but has Our May 1995 front page reported weird. Thanks for bring , to become a leader in environher excitement on winning a half- ing it." mental sciences and a place scholarship. Billie said at the time, The girl who couldn't which attracts visitors. . "it's fantastic. I've always wanted wait to leave the town and Speaking at the Swindon Civic tj ( l. to be an actress; it's like a dream found the idea of living Trust meeting on 13 November, he come true." and dying in Swindon suf^^ acknowledged the town still has a She was intrigued to see herself focating, looked happy to poor external image and needs a aged 12 and her family in their be back. She says in her wow factor for the benefit of outsidNine Elms home. Billie remem- book that she was wore rs. bered the picture being taken and ried about being trapped He believes that redevelopment looked closely to see her brother here and that she didn't of the Mechanics Institute as a and sister who were with her at the want to do what everyhotel is the only sustainable opbody else was doing. tion.

Despite complaints that the Catherine, Henry and l:zy Prothero As her autobiography council does not understand the shows, she has certainly packed a had met in 2001 when she viewed value of Lower Shaw Farm, he lot into the 11 years since she left. the house. She chatted with Billie said it is not a priority project for his She tells of her pop career, includ- about her childhood home and recouncil and should be sold to maxing three number one hits, mar- introduced her boys Isaac and imise return on a capital asset. riage at 18 to Chris Evans and, of Caleb to Billie's brother and sister, He believes Swindon's strength course, her role as Rose Tyler in Dr Charlie and Ellie, who were with is the strong community spirit of its Who. her. people, and thinks that new GovBillie was relaxed and approach"Considering Billie had been able as she signed books and posed signing for nearly two hours by ernment measures to encourage for photographs, and in return, was the time we got to her she was still greater engagement and participresented with pictures and letters being really jolly and friendly. I pation will benefit the democratic process at a local level. by young fans. She was expected to was very impressed," said Fran.

"Local government should step be at the North Swindon Centre for Isaac, 7, was delighted to meet back from doing too much," he an hour but stayed for three. her again. "Billie was really nice said.

"Councils should be giving Fran Williams has a special con- and kind." Caleb, 5, agreed, "She leadership, direction and focus; we nection as she lives in Billie's old was lovely to talk to, and she signed shouldn't be telling people what to family home at Nine Elms and they my picture." do."

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 3

Rays of seasonal hope for Lower Shaw Farm Local supporters determined to save farm and councillors willing to negotiate

over 15 Following the massive reaction against the proposed closure of Lower Shaw Farm, as expressed through letters, e-mails, and stories in Swindon Link, SzvindonAdvertiser and BBC Radio Swindon - after the news 'WE COME TO YOU broke at the end of October - Swindon Council is showing signs of a willingness to negotiate for a AT HOME OR WORK' sensible solution, one that could raise money for council projects while at the same time ensuring the ► /^o * FREE survival and well being of the farm. collection & delivery To this end, the council has ,t Servicing & repairs promised to undertake an audit with the farm's trustees to estab1SPECIAL OFFER BIKE lish the real value of the educaDOCTOR New Ladies & Gents tional, recreational, cultural and Mountain Bikes - ready environmental services it offers. to ride - for £85 These are all successful non-profit making activities that the farm is bound to provide in compliance with its longstanding lease agreement with the council.

The trustees have also asked the council to look more closely at its development proposals for the site.

Key Conservative councillors have expressed willingness to consider the request.

Both these points emerged at the end of a packed meeting of the West Swindon Forum on 13 NoServing Swindon vember where residents were told for 90 years by council leader Rod Bluh that the council is pursuing an ambitious range of capital projects.

Legal problems?

These include building new We have the answers schools, regenerating the town centre and repairing the Wyvern TheaTelephone 526601 tre. He said Lower Shaw Farm is worth £2 million and if a market rent were being charged it should pies needs matter, inc rarm is too be generating a £100,000 annual important to our community."

Kevin Fisher from Old Shaw income for the council.

At the start of the meeting court- Lane told the councillors that he mm - was very concernedb au to t he lack cillor Bluh asserted that the Website optimization and promotion is ^^^,^. posed closure of Lower Shaw Farm of consultation on the closure."The also included in a ll our packages p was not a matter that required con- council is more concerned with the sultation as the council has a duty price it can achieve for the site and to seek best value and best return has not consideredthe valueofthe SPECIAL OFFER Ij 4 from its assets. "We have a major activities at the farm to the people r 5 page BusinessWebsite with , LOV0JXSO-HOSFI G-GRA^HIi rebuilding programme in the town of Swindon." hosting ,.co.uk domain name Lynda Stevens from Shaw accentre and run down schools that need replacing. We need to pursue cused the council of wasting £5 Telephone: 08454084806 unlimited updates, contact these projects and sale of the farm million on rebuilding Shaw Ridge Email: info@elite-pwebdesign.co.uk form and tell a friend feature Primary when the children could will assist us achieve them."

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"I understand why people are have transferred to Salt Way which concerned about the loss of an is in good condition. "It beggars amenity and I'm equally passion- belief that a fantastic facility like ate about culture in our town. But Lower Shaw Farm has to be sold;

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com Lower Shaw Farm (continued)

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However, councillor Gary Perkins said Shaw Ridge needed to be rebuilt and by opening a childrens' centre and bringing together facilities for Swindon children with disabilities at Salt Way, the council was achieving better value for money.

Alan Hayward from Sparcells asked why sites like Toothill Farm are not also being considered for sale. "It's unacceptable that the cabinet can make closed-door decisions without a complete evaluation of the way a facility is used and its benefit to the community."

Geoff Heath from Shaw said he appreciated the difficult decisions that councillors have to make, but Could magic beans be the means to bring gold to Swindon and save Lower Shaw said Lower Shaw Farm should be Farm? Pupils in the Peatmoor Primary School Eco-group visited the farm on 14 considered differently because it Novemberfor tips on how to prepare and plant an organic garden. They learnt about is a cultural asset. "Swindon the biology of composting, crop rotation for best production and planting flowers doesn't have many; for God's sake and vegetables together to attract insects for pollination. Laura Hoard and Nathan Hoy offer up some beans whilst James Armstrong, Jackson Price, Hannah Curtis, let's retain what little we have."

Negotiations continue between Robert Hannah and Charlie Price dig over the planting bed the council and farm tenants Matt Have you written to the council?

Holland and Andrea Hirsch to see if there is a way to keep Lower Council leader Rod Bluh believes most of the e-mails he has received Shaw Farm as an integral and have been sent by non-Swindonians. If you have not included your worthwhile part of Swindon. address in your e-mail supporting LSF, you might like to write to him • South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove raised the plight of LSF in Parliament on 16 November.

• Swindon Council debated the farm on 23 November, after The Link had gone to press.

again with your latest views: rbluh@swindon.gov.uk Please send copies to the Chief Executive Gavin Jones: gjones@swindon.gov.uk and also to The Link: publisher@swindonlink.com

Lower Shaw Farm video online The Link has commissioned its first video for our web site.

Stacey Bailey, from Ramleaze,

CO-OPERATIVE COMMUNITY DIVIDEND — REAL BENEFITS TO REAL LIVES

right, who is in her final year of a Film & Theatre Studies course at Reading University has made a 5 minute film about

the farm and the widespread support for it to stay open.

Our thanks to her work placement supervisor Tony Niester of Mandarin Productions.

View Stacey's work at: www.swindonlink.com

the link Maga z ine Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 advertising@swindonlink.com January bookings by 5 December

e: publisher@swindonlink.com

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

It is completely independent of Link Centre Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle and, in fact, won a competition to name the Tel: (01793) 608840 Editorial: leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

Editorial copy date for January: 5 December The contents of The Link are protected Published: 30 December by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden Copy for February: 7 January

www.swindonlink.com

Registered in England & Wales, No: 4513027.

Registered office'. 130 High Street, Hungedord. Berks.

Printed by pcp. Telford

unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 5

Residents rise up to protest at long planned road closure Such was the response to the report in the November Link of the i mminent closure of Junction 6A on Thamesdown Drive that a publi, meeting has been called.

Residents have been appalled to least after this meeting," said coui learn that the junction would be- Tomlinson. "I'll be doing all I cal come a bus-only route in Decem- to keep this road open unless it i her - as originally designated in proved to me and local resident the Haydon III Priory Vale Master that there is no choice for safet` reasons other than to close it."

Plan in the late 1990s.

"We will also be looking at wh` With Lady Lane also to be closed, the developers, whc cutting off access to have sold hundred: Bridlewood Primary °° DISTRICT CENT of houses, did not in School from the east, Redhouse form house purchas all traffic will have to Haydon End crs of the potentia leave Thamesdown West Swindon closure."

Drive atJunction land Mike Christmas follow Eastbury Way from North Swindoi through the residenDevelopment Corn tial areas built in the District pany said that then last two years. centre are safety issues a: Ward councillor Junction 6A is de Justin Tomlinson rej signed only fo ceived hundreds of buses. If more that , a , , calls from people con1 five cars are waiting ,, ; cerned about the imin the right filter lam pact of the proposals.

The meeting will be an opportu- they will overflow into the througl nity for residents to hear from de- lane on Thamesdown Drive, thus velopers and officers from the creating an accident hazard The meeting takes place on Swindon Council's highways and planning departments who will December, 7pm, Bridlewood Pri explain why the closure is neces- mars School, Chartwell Road.

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"I have had confirmation that justint@tb-marketing.com o no work will take place until at pstoddart@swindon.gov.uk

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Trust targets 2010 for Mechanics' takeover Swindon Council will start building its new central library in the Spring. But Martha Parry of the Mechanics' Trust looks back almost 50 years to the closure of the town's original public li brary, and forward to 2010 when the trust has brought its campaign to regain the building for the people of Swindon to a successful conclusion.

On1 January 2007 you will hear In 1960 the phenomenal library col- entire new wing had to be added what remaining volumes they lection at Swindon's Mechanics' to the building in 1892 to provide could afford and salted them away of our new campaign to resolve Institution was broken up, after access for all during the GWR's in their lofts. They rarely appear in the 'Mechanics problem' by 2010.

Three ownershave tried to come 117 years of cutting-edge service to golden age before World War I. second hand shops, but a good a constantly growing and knowl- Womelandchildrenhadtheirown number have been donated to the up with commercially viable plans edge-hungry new town, dedicated reading rooms. In 1930 trust, since it was set up 12 years and failed. We agree, action is reAs befitted the only town another extension was required. ago next March with the aim of quired. The Mechanics' belongs to founded by 1K Brunel- a factSwinIt was a sad day when the books returning the premises and corn- the people of Swindon; it should don had forgotten until this year's were added to the borough coun- inunit y spirit of the institute to the be returned to the community with celebrations - the library had cil's collection first established in people of Swindon. new2lstCenturyuses-in the spirit grown apace with the town. An 1943. Institute members bought up Although the Mechanics' build- of all those Swindonians who made ing closed in 1986, its character - it a place of learning and innovadeveloped by the workers from tion in social provision.

Bringing the village hall into the 21st Century the earliest days of the GWR in • For details of the Mechanics' Swindon Council wants to hear from people about how council run Swindon - changed profoundly Trust campaign call 520592. community halls and social centres across the town are used now, and when the library shut. www.new-mechanics.com how they would like facilities to be developed.

Coun Steve Wakefield, cabinet member for Community & Neighbourhoods, will be responsible for a review lasting several months.

Parents get letters to reinforce Some areas like West Swindon have a large number of meeting places; dispersal order at Shaw North Swindon is poorly served by the council.

He said, "this is all part of the transformation of Swindon. To attract Some parents in the Shaw area have received letters from the police businesses into the town, community facilities have to be at the fore- and Swindon Council's crime prevention team telling them their front of our thinking. We're asking people to come forward with their children continue to assemble at Shaw Village Centre and could be ideas for the kind of facilities needed for the next twenty years." arrested for breaching the conditions of a dispersal order by causing At the West Swindon Forum on 13 November, Freshbrook councillor harrassment and alarm to people in the area.

Peter Greenhalgh said Upper Shaw Farm social centre is likely to close Traders attended a when Shaw Ridge Primary School is rebuilt with community facilities. meeting at the end of OcAs reported on pages 3 and 4, despite massive public support, the tober to assess the order council does not think Lower Shaw Farm is worth keeping either. made on 11 September.

The cabinet will launch the review on 5 December. Comments or They told Swindon counsuggestions should be sent to Chris Sivers, Director for Community: cillors and the police that csivers@swindon.gov.uk young people continue to gather to cause noise, inconvenience and threat to people visiting the shops, as well as riding scooters on adjacent roads.

They complained that ®® WEST SWINDON CHILDREN'S CENTRE the police are not doing enough to enforce the orFRESHBROOK der.

However PC Paul Some of the West Swindon team. From left, WPC Matthews said ring lead- Rachel Hardy, WPC Pat Salter, CPSO Richard Administrative Assistant ers have been identified Lane, CPSO Amanda Luker, PC Paul Matthews.

We have a vacancy for a part-time Admin Assistant and letters sent to parents Regrettably PC Matthews is returning to the Met for approximately 16 hours per week. reminding them of their and WPC Hardy is inoving to another departinent, Knowledge of Microsoft Office Professional is essential. responsibilities. as is newly arrived Sgt Nick Johns (not pictured) You will need to be a good communicator and be able to work on you own initiative.

Meet the police in Toothill

Family Support Worker We are looking for a Family Support Worker to join our team.

This vacancy is part-time for 16 hours per week.

You will need an NNEB/Level 3 child-care qualification, together with good communication skills and be able to work on your own initiative.

West Swindon Children's Centre is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and is an equal opportunities employer.

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Closing date for applications is 181)ecember 2006 West Swindon Children's Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way Freshbrook. Swindon SN5 8PD

PCSO Amanda Luker is holding a police surgery at Toothill Community Centre on Wednesday 29 November, 7pm to 9pm.

Police meet in the street WPC Pat Salter will be available to meet residents in a police mobile unit on Sunday 3 December at Freshbrook Centre, 1 Oam to 12noon and Shaw Centre, 1 pm to 3pm.

These three dates provide the opportunity to raise concerns about crime and disorder in the community on a one to one basis.

Scooters and motos recovered The spate of thefts and burglaries of pedal cycles, scooters and minimotos that has afflicted West Swindon for the last six months may have been sorted out after the arrest of individuals. Two van loads of stolen items were removed from premises in the area.

However the police continue to appeal for residents to take extra precautions to guard their belongings. PC Paul Matthews said, "if you ride your scooter around the streets, there are people out there who note where you live and will try to steal it. Please increase the security of your sheds and garages; don't leave yourself vulnerable to crime."

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 7 Crier creates calendar

Swindon Town Crier, Fred Ferris, has decided to celebrate another year in office by printing his own calendar for friends and family. for a couple of funcHe can be seen retions and I'm hoping splendent in the unithat his attitude is form ofaGWRstation going to prevail and master's uniform things are going to which has won him pick up. several best dressed " When I originally town crier at competibecame town crier, I tions all over Britain. was told that I'd be Over the nine years used for civic func.â&#x20AC;&#x201D; since he was chosen to tions; the idea was to represent Swindon at keep the heritage of the Old Town Festival, Fred has been frustrated by the the railways alive in the town."

He is delighted to have received council's apparent lack of interest in booking him for official duties, more invitations and the diary albut it looks as though there's been ready has bookings for next year. a change of heart and he was in- "That's when the outfit's on show. vited to attend the Freedom of the Nobody other than me gets to see Borough ceremony for the first it if it's in my wardrobe."

Most recently, Fred was seen at time in mid-October.

"After the last photo of me in the switching on of the Christmas September's Link I've had four jobs lights in the town centre and he'll be launching the come in," said Fred. seasonal lights cerHe added that every emony in Old Town mayor has promised on Thursday 30 Noto do something vember.

V about using his servTo book Fred fora Mike i but ices shout' call him on Bawden is the first 721800. one to act.

Left and above, Fred, "Mike Bawden is proud to promote the first to pull his Swindon to the rest of finger out. He has got Britain invitations sent to me 4

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Newly drafted design codes for the Wicheistowe development went on display in late October and house building should start by Spring. After a long battle by the Front Garden Action Group, it looks likely that people will be moving into new homes by the end of 2007.

The codes are a guide to devel- space, streets that are not domi- Roadand undertheM4.Therewill opers and set out the design, shape nated by the car, an architectural also be limited access from Rushey and layout of the new settlement. style that reflects the character of Platt in the north, via Redpost The first two versions were the area, and good public trans- Drive onto Wootton Bassett Road. strongly criticised and rejected by port, footpaths and cycleways," But at peak times, this will be a bus-only route. the Front Garden Action Group said John Simpson.

Wichelstowe will have three priled by campaigner Terry King.

Only half of the area will be built Thearchitectsresponsibleforthe on, the rest will be left as open mary schools close to village cenmasterplan of Wichelstowe, John space or designated for flood stor- tres. A secondary school site has Simpson & Partners, said that they age. The first group of 838 houses been reserved for a possible relofeltconfidentthat,afterpubliccon- will be built at East Wichel, close cation of Commonweal School. sultation, they had provided what to Croft Road whilst a smaller de- However after much protest from velopment will commence on the Old Town residents Swindon people want.

"The area includes quality open other side of the railway line from Council has decided not to pursue Rushey Platt. this proposal.

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As part of the planning gain, the developers will extend the canal from Bevans Bridge, south of Kingshill, to the M4. Eventually this will be linked under the motorway to the Wootton Bassett section. A new canal will be dug parallel to the railway line and in the long-term will link with a new channel from Mannington, next to West Swindon, to Moredon Bridge, close to Taw Hill, North Swindon.

Road access to the development could be a major problem. The route into East Wichel via Croft Road will mean negotiating the traffic through Old Town. To reach West Wichel, traffic will be directed round M4 Junction 16, down Hay Lane to a new junction on Wharf

Petition launched Rachel Tomlinson has started a petition calling for a safer pedestrian crossing point on Ramleaze Drive.

Since Salt Way Primary School closed more parents and children

are walking to Shaw Ridge Primary.

Rachel said, "I cross there every day on my way to school with my four year old: we don't feel it's safe."

Petition forms are available in Shaw Vets and by the post office in Tesco at the village centre.

• In December Swindon Council will be installing aToucan crossing at Roughmoor Way, between the two halves of Old Shaw Lane, to improve pedestrian routes to Brook Field and Shaw Ridge schools.

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

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10

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Clean air helps chronic asthma sufferer get a life again An air cleaning machine being evaluated by Swindon charity, Asthma Relief, has brought benefits overnight to its first tester. which keeps her airways clear. This Lydia Furness, right, from almost instant. "I felt a difference allows her to go into atmospheres Groundwell has suffered from a in 24 hours. I have bad allergies which previously made her ill. She chronic condition known as Brittle but I found that I could go to bed can now spend time with a good Asthma for twelve years and has without waking up sneezing." friend who smokes, and visit her Previous attacks have been semultiple allergies. She needs to use mum who keeps a cat. " 'a nebuliser every four hours and vere enough to put 28 year old Asa side effect of very high doses have a pump continually deliver- Lydia into intensive care; several of steroids, Lydia gained a lot of ing medication. have been life threatening. The illweight. Since having the machine, She had already received help ness was diagnosed when she was she has been able to reduce her from Asthma Relief when founder, 16 and forced her to give up her medication. "I've lost three stones Dave Penman asked her to try the dreams of becoming a nursery and that makes me feel good. air conditioning unit. nurse.

"It's a brilliant machine and a Lydia was sceptical at first. She "I used to be in hospital about great find by Dave Penman: I can't said, "I'd been on all these trials every two months. Since I've had praise him enough." before and nothing worked. They the fresh air machine, I've been in Trials of another four machines were saying that the machine kills three times in a year. It has made Lydia is . r, a buddy round her are now underway after a fantastic all the dust mites and I wondered my life more comfortable; I can do how it could do that." a lot more including leaving home neck when she goes out, a mini- response to an appeal for volunature version of the air cleaner teers which appeared in The Link.

Once installed, the results were without fear of an attack."

Sleigh bells ring with hope for Well Woman Clinic Santa's helpers will be collecting money for Swindon's Well Woma n Centre when his sleigh flies into Regent Street on 2 December.

Erica O'Flynn, centre administrator, said that the funds collected by pregnant with all the extra costs that would bring."

Fundraising is a constant struggle for the charity, and they are the members of the Round Table when they take their sleigh into the town centre will be a tremendous boost to funds. The centre has relied looking for corporate sponsorship. Although there are numerous grants entirely on donations to cover its £40,000 annual running costs, since available for setting up new projects, very few support running costs.

"If we could raise £20,000 from regular donations, it would pay the rent Swindon Council cut off grant funding four years ago.

Before the Annual General Meeting on 23 November, Erica said that and salaries," said Erica. She is confident that this can be matched from the centre had sufficient funds to remain open until the end of 2007. She fundraising activities.

The centre provides a range of services including health checks, free has prepared a bid for a council grant and hopes that the centre's contribution to the health of the town will be recognised. legal advice on family matters, a confidential listening service and a "If we have to close, there's going to be a big impact on other health men only health clinic. Contact the centre for advice and details of drop centres around the town. It's possible that more youngsters will get in sessions. Tel: 511064.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 11

Helping families with a heart child Emma Churchill from Toothill is the new Wiltshire contact for the Heartline Association.

She became involved with the charity after her daughter Skye was diagnosed with Pulmonary Steno sis, a rare congenital heart disease,

SEVEN FIELDS

which has weakened her immune

system and makes her vulnerable to the slightest infection.

Now Emma is ready to help other families. She said, "Heartline is a national charity which offers help and support to children with heart disorders and their families regardless of how slight or severe the condition may be.

"Having a baby or child with a heart disorder is very stressful, particularly at the time of diagnosis, before surgery and the period after a corrective operation. No matter how supportive hospital staff are, as parents you will always have worries and unanswered questions.

"Talking to another parent who has experienced a similar situationandunderstandshowyoufeel can ease the pressure a little and provide comfort."

Skye is two and a half and has a leaky valve which means not enough blood is pumped to the lungs for oxygenation. She suffers more in the winter and if she runs around she'll go blue for lack of oxygen in her blood stream.

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Enuna zi)ith Gariii mid Skye

Babies have a 1 in 100 chance of being born with congenital heart disease and the risk to siblings is between 2 and 5 per cent. Emma and partner Gary had Garin 8 months ago and thankfully his heart is in good condition.

In addition to providing a listening ear, Emma is also hoping to organise social events where families across the county can get together to share the ups and downs of living with a heart child.

Emma can be contacted on 422537 or mail: emma.churchill @btinternet.com www.heartline.org.uk

Good health is getting better i

'Aa

Therapies to make you smile A visit to the dentist isn't usually a relaxing business but a wellbeing centre, housed in the old Groundwell Farmhouse, North Swindon looks set to change that.

At the Seven Fields practice, it will be pos ti sible to have top to toe treatments: from den- '^ 5 tal work, to Reiki Shiatsu or Thai mas— sage, physiotherapy' —` and podiatry. ( R; ' Dentist, Patrick Holmes bought the der;n '' elict Grade II listed building in 2002 with the intention of basing Patrick Holmes at the farmhouse before restoration his practice there.

With additional space available in prevention and looking after in the refurbished premises, it was themselves through alternative a logical progression to offer thera- therapies."

The dental practice is equipped pies forthe wholebody. After years of renovation work, the building with state of the art equipment provides a stunning setting; sev- and offers a full range of services eral rooms have inglenook fire- from high tech decay detection places and one even has its own with lasers to fillings and crowns.

Cosmetic techniques such as tooth well.

Reiki Master and Shiatsu spe- lightening and implants will help cialist, Julie Stubbs, said that she is create the perfect smile.

A hypnotherapist and a Botox looking forward to moving into her quirky, T-shaped room. "It has specialist could shortly be joining a wonderful atmosphere," she said. the team.

Seven Fields opens on 11 De"A lot of the features have been kept and it's a very relaxing build- cember. Call 722194 for informalion and to register. ing." www.sevenfields.co.uk "People are taking more interest

Wiltshire's Premier Centre for Dental Care, Health & Wellbeing Opens on December 11th

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Top-to-toe care in the beautifully restored surroundings of historic Groundwell House.

conventional and cosmetic dentistr y , including: Whitening i Implants • Crowns • Veneers Plus a range of complimentar y therapies including: ^ t " Podiatry - 1'1r . massage Physiotherapy

Appointments now being taken, telephone 01793 722194 Seven Fields Dental ( Health Centre Groundwell House, Woodcutters Mews, Swindon, SN25 4AC

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Relax

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12

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

New village outlet for post office A new post office opened at Toomers Garden Centre on 13 November to serve Lydiard Millicent village.

However postmaster Neville Stone, who lives in Taw Hill, hopes that people living in Shaw, Nine Elms, Peatmoor and Sparcells will also find it convenient to visit him in Stone Lane. "We're very close to a large number of people and there's free parking."

Apart from postage for letters and packages most post office services will be available, apart from car licences. Pick up your Christmas gifts there as well.

Philippa Philippa Read, deputy chief executive of Community First, launches the post office with Neville Stone, left, with parish council chairman Tom Pepperall

Priory Vale five years on Wednesday 22 November marked the fifth year since Thamesdown Drive was officially opened.

The road which has become (NSDC) said the area's success has secondary school will open on the Swindon's northern by-pass from exceeded all expectations. "Priory site in September next year.

Work on the Priory Vale village the A419 at Blunsdon to the M4 via Vale's properties are selling faster centre, next to the campus, is exWest Swindon, opened up the 5,000 than anticipated."

Lorraine Palmer, sales director pected to start in the Spring. home Haydon III development, Mike Christmas said the NSDC from Bloor Homes, said, "I was marketed as Priory Vale.

In the afternoon of the same day one of the first to move to Priory is working to complete public open Asda Walmart opened its doors at Vale. The area has grown into a spaces and join up the foot and the North Swindon District Cen- thriving community with attrac- cycle routes across the area. tre, to be followed by the other tive properties, retail units and community facili- shops and lovely Lorraine Palmer in the November 2003 Link, with a ties such as the library and youth country walks on poster promoting a Bloor Homes site dedicated to her grandfather Tom who farmed Priory Vale land in the centre. the doorstep."

Building started a year late after Since 2001 the 1930s Swindon Friends of the Earth, in North Swindon 1997, managed to get the Govern- Centre has doubled ment to force the developers to in size and in Sepcarry out an environmental audit tember Red Oaks on the original design for the area. and Orchid Vale PriNow it is responsible for much mary Schools of the rapid expansion of the town. opened their doors.

Last year 1,891 homes were built In mid-November in Swindon - half of which were in two special schools Priory Vale. There are now over transferred to the North Swindon 2,700 occupied there.

Mike Christmas of the North Learning Campus Swindon Development Company and the Isambard

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Making a deposit at the Food Bank pays dividends

flow problems.

"We feed as many people in Abbey Meads and Priory Vale Collecting at Asda Walmart last Decenhrr i he former as we do in I'inehurst Mayor and Mayoress Ray and Christine Fisher, zoith and Penhill," said Richard Belsham and helpers project manager Richard Belsham. "Forty per cent are amazed by how much we collect."

Although stocks are now good, kids; a lot of 17 and 18 year olds who've left home end up in half thanks to harvest festival collecway accommodation and need tions, some items are always needed. The wish list includes: help."

He explained that benefits can tinned meat, rice pudding, UHT take weeks to come through and milk, UHT juice, pasta sauce and Food Bank bridges the gap. The 500g bags of sugar. Items can be charity collects food at local dropped off at the Rainbow Chrischurches and supermarkets. Shop- tian Bookshop in the town centre.

Contributions towards running pers are asked if they could buy a few extra items to donate and the costs are always welcome and a direct debit donation scheme has results are staggering.

In their first ten months, 19.8 been set up. For details call 0844 tonnes of food were donated. Ri- 566 7566. chard added, "people in the town Foodbank will be at Asda are so generous. Supermarketman- Walmart on 9 December, with agers have said that they're

the Salvation Army Band.

Local is the new organic As demand for organic food outstrips UK supplies, planning to buy locally should be on the Christmas list say food producers in the Swindon area.

Local and organic is the ideal •` and luckily, if people eat seasonal produce both are available.

We've all become used to lettuce all year round and strawber. ries in mid-winter. Perhaps it's time to tune into the seasons again and the traditional Christmas dinnerisaperfectexampleofthekind ` of homegrown foods available in December. There should be no difae: Rou^ie Meers of Parton Howe ficulty in sourcing organic potatoes, sprouts, carrots, turkey or supermarketsjumpedonthebandwagon. Co-op member, Colin goose.

Purton House farm sells a range Climpson, is sceptical about of organic vegetables and its veg Tesco's plans to introduce a vegbox boxes can be collected from the scheme and their promise to source farm or a number of drop-offpoints food as locally as possible. "I'm including Lower Shaw Farm. Or- not convinced that they can do it. ganic farmer, Helen Browning, is Local box schemes can't get enough taking orders for her turkeys, local organic produce now; and ducks and geese at Eastbrook what about all the extra packagFarm, Bishopstone. (Turkeys have ing?" to be ordered by 7 December).

As the debate goes on, buying Swindon Pulse can provide the from local producers remains the extras including vegetarian mince- simplest way to be sure that food meat and Christmas puds. doesn't cost the earth: Pulse has been supplying www.purton-house.co.uk healthy, ethically produced food www.swindon-pulse.co.uk for thirty years, long before the big www.helenbrowningorganics,co.uk

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 15

Balloons soar on a special day for Brimble Hill and Uplands To mark the arrival of two brand new special schools in Priory Vale, hundreds of balloons were released; one for each child at the North Swindon Learning Campus.

After an extended half term have come up to us, they have had and they did very well. One of our the Brimble Hill team who used to break, pupils at Brimble Hill Pri- two terms to get used to the idea pupils told me that the building is teach them.

Head ofBrimble HillBob Walker mary and Uplands Secondary spe- and have got to know the school. very pretty " Children from Red Oaks Pri- said that although not many of the cial schools had their first glimpse With this move, because of tight of the new buildings when they ti mescales and completion of mary next door joined in the bal- childrenwereabletoputtheirfeelarrived on 8 November. building works there's been no op- loon launch on the Brimble Hill ings into words, they seemed imBrimble Hill has left Park South, portunity to even step through the site to say hello to their new neigh- pressed with the new building and bours. Some Uplands pupils took were settling in well. "It's good to where it was based for 21 years, door.

"Today was going to be a huge part and there were screams of see the Red Oaks children here as and Uplands has transferred from event for both schools and it went delight as they saw members of we hope tobe working very closely Penhill. with them."

Head of Uplands Mary Bishop tremendously well, â&#x20AC;˘ The special "Our pupils spent their first day said that it had not been possible schools have 1 to take the pupils inside the new findingtheirwayroundtheschool. been built as part j building ahead of theopening. "In Thel6+studentsweregivenamap of the North Swin Er I the past when Brimble Hill pupils and asked to find their class room don Private Finance Initiative project. The 145 pupils aged 2 to 19 years with severe, profound and/or multiple learning difficulti es will enjoy state of the art facilities including sensory rooms, a hydro-therapy pool and leading edge ICT equipment.

Left, Jake Harper and Kelvin Clarke in the Brimble Hill multis:'nsory room

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16

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com ,

Science fun at St Francis

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The Science Encounter Day, in- children's understanding of envivolved the whole school in activi- ronmental matters and show them ties based on space, forces and the how they can help their world. She environment. A spectacular inflat- hoped that they would now be able planetarium was set up in the more aware that science is all hall and was visited by each class around them and appreciate their world more. in turn.

"It was a brilliant success. The Some classes sent up rockets and others talked about meteors and children absolutely loved it. They the force when they land. There were inspired by the dome which was environmental activity with gave them a really life-like experieach class responsible for planting ence of space.

"Most of the children will say spring bulbs in a container.

Science co-ordinator, Helen that science is their favourite subLavis, said that the aim was to ject. They like finding things out generate real excitement about sci- for themselves; it's such an inspirence. She wanted to increase the ing topic."

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 17

Green art at Greendown A two day recycling art project, left GCSE students inspired and asking for more from No Added Sugar artist, Toni Robinson.

The young artists with Tolu Lapite and Toni Robinson, centre

The event was backed by Swin- write a poem called The Future is don Scrapstore and Year 9 and 10 Ours. pupils spent the first day creating Toni spoke to the young people i mages with paper and dried flow- about their role in preserving the ers recycled by the Pinehurst based planet. "After my soap box talk on social responsibility, citizenship charity, Amy Snook, 14, said, "on the and recycling, I was told by the second day, we did pictures of children that they found it inspirourselves. Toni turned photos into ing. They said that no-one had ever simple images and we painted spoken to them like that before them onto a huge piece of recycled and they asked me to come back so material in black, red, yellow and they could hear more.

"They were just a brilliant group orange. It's made me think more about re-using things. We used to of young people to work with throw plastic pots away but now they're focussed, interested, polite we think about recycling them and and wonderfully confident artists.

The art work they produced was using them for paint."

The youngsters also worked fantastic and once they had started with London poet, Tolu Lapite, to their work, they didn't need me."

Westlea delve deeper into French life Dressed in red, white or blue, children at Westlea Primary School started a special French day on 7 November by forming themselves into the tricouleur flag and learning a song from French co-ordinator Louise Miles.

By 2010, all primary schools will The youngsters baked baguettes, made flags and looked at Impres- have to offer a language to KS2 sionist art before having a go at pupils but this has been happencreating their own masterpieces. ing at Westlea since September Year 5 rose to a challenge to create 2005. In October, Year 6 pupils had the Eiffel Tower from art straws. the chance to put their learning Ms Miles explained that the into practice when they stayed in a National Curriculum Framework Chateau in Normandy.

After school on 7 November for Languageemphasisesthatchildren should have an understand- Westlea teachers had ameetingwith ing of another culture so the day an advisory teacher from France to was about more than learning the discuss teaching methods. language; it was a slice of French life. o.ut t.^ w ^c "The effect has ^i .:;, , been brilliant. It's enthused bothchildren and staff about

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Parents pre-Christmas get together

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Th Genesis Parent and Toddler Group in Westlea had such a good The response to the story in the October Link that the organisers have decided to hold a free Christmas drinks evening for mums and dads.

"It's a chance for members and Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea. For parents who would like to know details call Emma Thornton on more about joining us to meet in a 778336 or mail: info@colinthornton different and child free setting," photography.co.uk If you cannot make the social said group coordinator Emma evening the group meets at the Thornton.

The drinks evening takes place Trinity Centre on Wednesday on Tuesday 12 December, 8pm, in mornings. Call Emma about jointhe Swindon Family Church Trinity ing in.

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The Children's Centre at Robert le Kyng Westco tt Street, Swindon. Tel: 484934 Headstarts is a friendly, `family' nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where every child benefits from individual attention.

I

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

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For further information or to arrange a visit, call Alison on 877779 or 484934 SPECIAL OFFER FREE child ca re worth £50 with this advert* -- -

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West Swindon Childrens' Centre has completed its transformation and will be looking to the future at its Annual General Meeting. ours are based in The centre, for and are part of the merly the Family community," said Project, provides Alison. "It's great support and advice ,. to know that on a range of chilsomethere's issues. , dren's where you can go $ r Deputy Manager, and have confiAlison Lowe, said _ dence that you'll that there has been gethelp. And if we a marked increase can't, we know in numbers since someone who can. becoming a childJulie Batson, right, manager It saves parents a rens' centre in July. of the childrens centre zoith fortune in phone New groups and Alison Lowe, deputy bills, and frustracourses have been set up including SOX Club which tion in trying to get to the services supports family learning, a healthy they need."

The Childrens' Centre used to eating for toddlers group and a be the West Swindon Family childminders' group.

Additional staff have been Project which first started in 1984. needed to provide the services. The AGM takes place on 7 DecemHannah Frith has been appointed ber, 12 noon at 15 Gainsborough as creche manager and is joined by Way, Freshbrook. All readers are a new family support worker and invited. For details call 871303.

• Vacancies at the centre - see two part-time benefit advisors.

"It's important that services like page 6.

Saltway to become supermarket for children's services The former Saltway Primary School building in Middleleaze will soon have a new lease of life as a Children's Centre and base for special needs support.

The centre will be managed and point of view it's an excellent use co-ordinated by the charity Fam- for a very high quality building. ily Welfare Association and will It's good that this community foalso house two special needs cue is not going to be lost." groups: Koalas and Special Tots.

There will be a wide range of The Family Welfare Association services on offer, from health and was selected by a panel including parental support, to training and parents and members of the Swin- job seeking advice. Ms Burton said don Primary Care Trust because of that locating everything under one innovative ideas in their tender, roof makes Salt Way 'the Tesco of "They had some imaginative ways childcare services.' "The idea is of attracting parents to use the cen- that a parent can call in for advice tre," said Carmel Burton, Surestart about weaning, talk to someone Partnership Manager. about early education, get help on Suggestions included nearly bedtime routines, as well as learn new sales and involving parents in about ways to get back to work." the production of the centre's The Childrens' Centre is exnewsletter. pected to open its doors before Ms Burton said that refurbish- Christmas and will serve the Shaw, ing the Saltway building, since it Nine Elms and Grange Park wards. closed as a primary school at All areas south ofWhitehillWay, Easter, had cost only £10,000 corn- are covered by the West Swindon pared to the cost of £500,000 for Childrens' Centre in Gainsborough newly built premises. "From our Way, Freshbrook. See above.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 19

Christmas crafts for pre-schoolers First Steps parent and toddler group is organising Christmas craft sessions on 1 and 8 December in the stable room next to St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park.

Youngsters will be making gifts and Christmas tree and table decorations, angels and lanterns.

On 15 December members will also enjoy a Christmas party with a star appearance from the bloke with the big white beard.

To join in call organiser Alana Sargent on 07947 552949 or mail Joy Aldred: ja@joyaldred.freeserve.co.uk

Children's Information Service A one-stop shop for FREE information' ^•,rO^^ZSNFORMq TrO^s^P

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SWINDON

V

Twenty years of play at Greendown

Why not pop in and see us?

6 - 7 Theatre Square. Swindon Tel: 01793 541786 Email: info@cisswindon.co.uk www.cisswindon.co.uk

Greendown Playgroup held a charity auction and disco at the end of

Where are you now? Nor - - Ycar 9 Greendown Community School pupils who were thefirstchildren to attend Greendown Playgroup in 1986 celebrate the group's tenth anniversary. Front from left, Rebecca Sell, Paul Colyer, Gennna Edwards. Back, Russell Veal, Alex Ogle, Chris Williams who are all now 23 or 24

Former members of staff, parents and children who've been involved over the years were invited to join in a family fun evening to raise £2,000 to be spent on new

equipment for the dressing up and role play area.

Playgroup manager, Julie Steward said, "the home corner is such an important place for children. It helps their personal, social and emotional development;they love using it."

The evening was a family affair, with children enjoying their own disco, face painting, hair braiding and tattoos. While they were entertained, the adults could concentrate on bagging a bargain or two.

The playgroup started life in the main school building in the Len Hobbs community suite in September 1986 but in 2001 moved into a temporary building in the

Courses held locally Groups and one to one sessions Also available: complimentary therapies including mums-to-be massage and hot stone therapy

ABBYMEADS Tue am & Fri pm PEATMOOR Fri am

For more details contact Geraldine

Call Virginia 01453 839464

aezaholistictheranv-athome.co.uk

www,.io_iingles. corn

on 07821686570

Well equipped facilities a superb environment

grounds when the school ex-

panded and was remodelled.

One of the founder parents Ruth Ogle said she was very pleased that the playgroup is still run by committed volunteers and that children continue to learn through

nursery and pre-prep school

MEADOWPARK • Specialist teachers for Early Years Education To request a • Gentle, experienced, qualified brochure or staff dedicated to babies to visit, telephone • Large separate classrooms for Swindon each age group (3 mths to 7 years) • Excellent OFSTED inspection report

play.

Greendown Playgroup meets on 5 mornings and 3 afternoons a week and is as popular as ever.

There is a long waiting list. For details about joining it call Tracy O'Connor on 882234.

New extension now open Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon

•

for details about our workshops on 27 Janua ry & 24 March.

www.meadowparkschool.co.uk

day nursery

Would you like to ...

Call 01793 700659 or visit www.achievesuccess.uk.com

individual care individual learning

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

20

Keep the family in the picture 1

F1

A North Swindon based business allows families to keep in touch via their very own website which can be set up in minutes.

Stephen Mytton from St Andrew's Ridge had been thinking about setting up a family friendly website for some time but .. was spurred into action when his daughter Evie was due. "When we found Teresa was expecting I wanted something to announce the birth and to show off photos to our friends around the world, as well as keeping a record of everything that was going on."

Meet the Kids was born, only 8 months after Evie's arrival. It is the e . perfect setting to display photos of the family, keep a note of baby Evie's arrival was the spur for milestones and write all the news.

Instead of sending out dozens of Stephen and Teresa Mytton's venture Photo: Professional Images emails and photos, friends and family can be invited to visit the for people just like us."

A Meet the Kids gift voucher site. There is password protection to ensure that no-body else can could be the ideal gift for those with a young family. After keying gain access to the family's area.

"I want people to be able to do in the code printed on the voucher, whatever they want with the site," they will have a fully active website said Stephen. "And we want to - and no excuses for not keeping make this the number one kids' everyone up to date.

To create a free test website, visit website service. We built it to meet our own needs and it's designed www.meetthekids.co.uk

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Avoid the festive frenzy and excess It's nearly 'the big day' but so many hate the hype and dream of shaking off the shackles of expectation. Barbara Prothero suggests ways of doing things your own way and making your own traditions.

• Keep this always in mind.

It's only one day in the year and its not worth breaking the

bank:

cars (subject J

to availability)

• Chop down your Christmas li st and shop online;

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Lift to and from work

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WEST SWINDON

Wash and vac with all servicing

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FISH BROTHERS TO BOOK OR FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CONTACT RONI, CHRISTINE OR ANDY ON

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• Try to avoid the shops for the whole of December by having groceries delivered so that you avoid impulse buys; • Let the whole family choose a charity gift from There's somebody else worse off than www,charitygifts.com What about a family charity gift?

J • Give the children something /mage: www sendacowgifts. u/c. corn else to focus on before Christmas. It could be a pre-holiday visit the full works for Boxing Day: to relatives, a trip to the panto- • Make the meal memorable by mime or putting up the tree. Ban dressing to the nines, black tie Christmas talk before that event; and tiaras, princess dresses and • Try to get to a carol concert or a pearls — even if you're only having fish and chips; nativity play; • Pace the present opening; wait • Set the ground rules about until after breakfast and take what Father Christmas will bring.

In our house, he brings stockings turns to tear into the packages; and one present; everything else • Presents are great but playing is from Mum and Dad, which with them is better: helps avoid excessive requests; • Visitors arriving mid-afternoon • Don't lay in food for a siege: are a blessing, bringing new remember that the shops will be excitement when you're flagging open again in two days; after the 2am start: • Cook a meal that suits you: • Think about having fewer there's no law that it has to be presents at Christmas and give turkey and trimmings; New Year gifts. which you can • Spend more time with the family buy in the sales.

by making a casserole and saving

Have a great Christmas.

21

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SWINDON &

CRICKLADE RAILWAY

DECEMBER SANTA SPECIALS

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

Catch Christmas at Steam and Lydiard House Steam – Museum of the Great Western Railway will echo with the sights and sounds of the festive season on 2 and 3 December, a weekend complete with brass bands, bellringers, choirs and barrel organs.

A Christmas-themed play will be performed at various ti mes throughout the weekend on the station platform and visitors will be able to make tree decorations and personalised Christmas cards at craftworkshops. There will be stalls from across Wiltshire selling handmade gifts, traditional crafts, paintin s, ceramics and ewellerY. ings,

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At Lydiard House. imagine what it would be like to celebrate Christmas in a grand country house Victorian style.

From Saturday 2 to Saturday 23 December the state rooms will be decked in traditional festive greenor, from the 1- ark and stunnin g decorations by floristry students at Wiltshire College. Lackham. left.

Activities forfamilies, visitors and lovers of music are listed on pages 32 and 33. Another attraction will be the new covering on the four poster in the state bedroom.

The house is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm. Sunday 2pm to 4pm. Normal admission applies: £2.20 adult. £2 senior. £1 child. under 5s free. Discounts for SwindonCard holders.

For details call Lydiard House on 770401.

Has Swindon got the vision thing?

It s the big question that the Swindon Cultural Partnership will be asking on Tuesday 19 December. and they want Swindon people to contribute their ideas over mince pies.

The partnership is looking for residents to join its community consultation group to advise and make recommendations to the partnership.

To find out more about the group and meet members of the Cultural Partnership, or if you just want to know what's going on. book a place at The Culture & Community Drop-in on Tuesday 19 December at Swindon Dance. Old Town Hall, Regent Circus.

For details call Laura Dennis on 328765 or mail: laura.dennis@creativeswindon.org.uk www.creativeswindon.org.uk

It's the last chance for culture The consultation follows a seminar for an invited audience on 5 December on the topic: Creativity v Negativity - The Last Chance for Swindon. Leading movers and shakers from business, government and the arts will speak on the contribution that an excellent arts and cultural environment makes to the quality of life in atown, and will be suggesting how Swindon can create a better atmosphere for it to flourish.

To provide extra Christmas cheer prices are reduced for the festive weekend: £4 for adults. £3 for children and concessions. A family ticket will be £10 for two adults and two children, and £12 fortwo adults and three children. Under fives are free.

Also for sale will be the STEAM 2007 calendar of paintings by ac-

claimed artist Sean Bolan at £4.99.

It will make a great Christmas gift, featuring paintings of GWR broad gauge railway stations including Shrivenham. Melksham and Warwick.

More details from: www.swindon.gov.uk/STEAM -

Trains run from 11am to 4pm on Saturday 9th & Sunda} 10th Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th Also 6pm to 8pm on Saturday 9th Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane f,^ 0 "• Tel:771615 Trains: 11 am - 4pm Cafe, shop and free parking

°` NORTH SWINDON y

.

IND SWINDON E

Now licenced to carry out weddings and naming ceremonies

www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

22

Swirdc r Wide Family aim to top £10,000 for Prospect

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd

GIVE YOURSEL.) A GIFT Review your mortgage before Christmas and you could be making a saving for 2007 We may be able to find you a lower interest rate.

You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

Whether you're planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your property, with over 18 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service.

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

However, no completion no fee.

to all Link readers Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now.

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

Swindon

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

The Flatt family of Gipsy Lane, between Elgin and Stratton have been raising money forthe Prospect Hospice since 2003 from their Christmas li ghts display and visits from Santa, as well as summer sales.

Santa and his helpers will be `Lighting up' will be at 6pm on 1 again on duty from 1 to 24 Decem- December with the Mayor of Swinber. from 6pm to 9pm inclusive, don making a visit on 4 December, giving away balloons, sweets and 6.30pm John, Jayne & Robert Flattwould small gifts.

New attractions this year are be pleased to receive donations even more lights, guaranteed forgifts and any unwanted presents snow, lots of eight foot high that can be sold on in aid of the inflatables and a ride on a train, hospice. To offer, call 320805 or and there is free parking at Enter- mail: gipsylanesanta@ntlworld prise Works, behind the house. .com

Bowers Greenmeadow bungalow to blaze with light A huge display of Christmas lights is promised again by Jan Bowers and her family at 8 Avonmead, in aid of the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis.

It all kicks off on Sunday 3 December: Parade around 5pm the streets 5.30pm Entertainment from Julie Rogers, Jake the Juggler, disco, tombola, stalls and refreshments from Henry Symonds catering 6.30pm The big switch on with Father Christmas There's also a silent auction for great prizes including a Manches-

ter United pennant signed by Paul Scholes and Michael Silvestre. a Barcelona pennant signed by the whole team including Renaldo, a Real Madrid Beckham shirt.

Father Christmas will be returning to his grotto from Monday 4 to Thursday 7 December, between 6pm and 8pm.

Christmas in The Lane Wrap up warm, don the mufflers and woolly hats, and bring a lantern or torch. People living on the west side of Old Shaw Lane are holding their third annual outdoor fund raising evening on Sunday 10 December in aid of Prospect Hospice and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Stalls will be set up in the lane and Steve Anderson. and front yards from 4pm to 7pm `Thanks to Link readers, our past selling Christmas gifts, crafts, outdoor Christmas events have cards, cakes, holly wreaths and been great successes,"saidLesley Dredge who organises the evening other surprises.

There will be free mulled wine to with a team of volunteers. "It's a lot warm the cockles with every mince of fun and a great way of getting pie sold. Santa will arrive by horse Christmas going." and carriage tojoin inwith commu- • Carols at Lower Shaw Farm, 9 nity carol singing led by Val Turner December - see page 32.

ases in Brackenwood Gardens, Po

24

Swindon Wide io Old Town

BLAYLOCKS

SLIPPERS The ideal gift

Bath Road Corner Old Town. Tel: 534271

r

The engineering works w1 'have been cleared away in Wood Street and traders want everybody to know that Old Town is in business for Christmas.

On Thursday 30 November Swindon's Common- x° wealth boxing gold medallist Jamie Cox, right, is the star turn at the annual Christmas lights switch on.

Events starts at 6pm with tons of street and stage entertainment promised, including performances from Tanwood dancers which had been rehearsing for Cinderella at

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THE HOME Me. urkoleyeav roun

FI Also a large selection of mens, ladies and childrens shoes

Jamie to hit the button

OLD TOWN HARDWARE

SALE

26ffia1sk cember only 1 4 Wood Street. Old Town

Tel: (01793) 433331

a the Wyvern Theatre before the panto was cancelled.

Town crier Fred Ferris will start the count down at 6.59pm before Jamie f li ghts up Wood Street as Santa arrives.

Richard Deacon of the Old Town Business and Professional Association said it's a relief to have Wood Street open for a few weeks so that Swindon peoplecandiscovertheunique shops in the area. "If you haven't been lately, Old Town has something for you this Christmas."

1'iV1IF'I']iT1I'[1 • CARPETS • WOOD • LAMINATE VINYL • UNDERLAY • ACCESSORIES No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions JUST THE RIGHT PRICE AND THE TRUE VALUE FROM THE START HOME SELECTION SERVICE Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

01793 480777 or 07834 685871 6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB

Candles Crystals Art Suppfies The source of the crystal Swindon's largest supplier of Yankee candles • Competitive prices with a personal service • Unique gemstone jewellery set in sterling silver • Personalised handmade candles for Christmas and all other occasions • Psychic evening parties • Workshops in tarot card reading and crystal healing • We stock everything from angels and calming meditation CDs to gemstones, wands, incense sticks, inspirational cards, books and dream catchers • Bob Ross stockist and workshops

1..

Come and see for yourself at

53 Godwin Court, Old Town, Swindon. Tel: 01793 613419

Swindon Wide it Old Town

TANZANITE Tanzanite is a rich blue-lavender colour which is rather unique. It was discovered in 1967 in the Umba Valley near the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania and was named after its country of origin by the famous New York jeweller Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Tanzanite is sometimes used as an alternative to the traditional December birthstones of turquoise and zircon

.

DEACONS

DEACON & SON (SWINDON) LTD ctahlich d 1848 11 - 15 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 527530 / 522072 Also: 44/45 High St, Marlborough. Tel: 01672 519955 42 High Street, Wootton Bassett. Tel: 01793 852945 www.deacons-jewellers.com

/14D' BYTO) 55 god in Court O[f own, Swindon 01793 640333 www. made-5y-you. co. uk

25

Swirl r K. & E. J. CRUMP & SON FAMILY BUTCHERS

26

120 HIGH ST., WOOTTON BASSETT. Tel: 853284

CHRISTMAS ORDERS ' NOW BEING TAKEN Farm Fresh Turkeys, Geese, Cockerels, Chickens, Boneless Turkey Breast, Duck, Pheasant, Venison, High Class Scotch & English Beef, Premium Lamb, Pork, large selection of Speciality Pies w

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

Over 20 varieties of fresh sausages and sausage meat including: The Famous `Bassett Banger'

"WE'RE NO ORDINARY BUTCHER. TASTE THE DIFFERENCE"

t ^^

1

10% Discount Loyalty Scheme on top of some of the cheapest prices in town.

Carp fishing specialist, permits, fresh bait Clothing, footwear, bivees, luggage Course tackle - Shakespeare, Shimano, Fox, Gardner, JRC Stockists of.• Mainline Baits • CC Moore

• Richworth • BCUK • Sensa's

• Whizzo • Pescavivo & others

Open 7 days. Midweek 9am - 6pm Late night Friday, early morning Saturday

TNT TACKLE & BAIT 160 CRICKLADE ROAD, SWINDON TEL: (01793) 611224

Wide

Tracking down GWR women

A local historian wants to hear from women who worked for GWR so that their story can be told in her new book, The Gent/er Sex. Dr Matheson would Dr Rosa Matheson. li ke to hear from anyright, has been comone who has a story to missioned to write a tell about themselves work about the women or a family member who shaped the railwho was a railway way, following the sucwoman. "Meeting cess of her first publipeople is the bit I like • cation, Trip. "There are the most. They're so rt literally hundreds of interesting and so books about all sorts generous with their of things related to the ti me and memories," railways. but very little she said. written about it from the Much of the history of these refemale perspective," she said.

The powers at GWR were reluc- markable women has been lost tantto employ women buttwoworld because nobody knew it was valuwars forced their hand. By the end able. "I keep meeting people who of WWII, women had become over- say that they had photos but threw head crane drivers, porters, lorry them away because they thought drivers, machinists, track workers no-one would be interested."

To contact Rosa, call 764979 or and more. Many have said that it mail: rosa.m@tesco.net was the best time of their life.

ii..

Great photographs celebrate Britain in time for Christmas In order to gain an authentic insight into what makes Britain really great you need look no further than this stunning new book. /mages of Britain published by Visit Britain Publishing is a beautiful and evocative look at our island through 250 breathtaking colour photographs. illustrating just how magnificent the country really is.

Within it you'll find glorious, wonderful heritage, stunning scenery and bustling contemporary cityscapes. Some are stunning double page panoramas. others are exquisite close cropped detail, each capturing something of the country's heritage and the unique spirit and common threads that bind people together across England, Scotland and Wales, The book is divided into eight sections, celebrating Britain in its various incarnations, including its historic and stately features, the coast, the

landscape and metropolitan setti ngs.

A handy index provides essenti al visitor information and contact details of several places featured.

VisitBritain Publishing are offering copies of Images of Britain to Link readers at £12.99 (usually £14.99) including free P&P. To order call 0870 - 6067204 quoting reference IOB4.

Author explains the meaning of life Jonathan Robinson of Eastleaze has written a book entitled A Connexion ThroughLightwhich sets out his theory that everything in life is already planned.

Writing as A Doorkeeper, Mr Robinson explains that a formula determines the pattern of life in a universe. 'Many would regard such a thing to be either fanciful, or far beyond the daily events occupying a mind," he said. "However, we believe it is time for us to know, since the programme of life demands we reach its calculated conclusion."

Mr Robinson believes that the way we describe numbers holds a key to our existence. However, he stresses that the book is not about numerology; rather, it uses this ancient knowledge to establish a digital sequence.

The work is published by Inkpen Ltd which has been formed to demonstrate that life has always been on a precise pre-planned course.

"We experience a life pre-determined in every respect and we can access this through the universal key," says Mr Robinson Visit www.inkpen.info to read an extract or to order a copy.

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28

Swindon wide Tell Them of Us

Creative opportunities in North Swindon

A childhood dream to commemorate the 6,000 Swindon men who served King and Country during the Great War has been realised in a book by Swindonian Mark Sutton.

A £1 million arts project intends to help youngsters living in Priory Vale to become the media creatives of the future.

Artsmadwill run the three year Flux Creative Change project based at Isambard Secondary School. Funding comes from the Treasury's Save to I nvest budget.

The name was unveiled at Red Oaks Primary School in November after several months discussion with young people at the Underground youth centre at the North Swindon Cen• r b,' tre.

The experimental project will introduce young people to a range of arts activi , A ties including dance, drama and music. There will be events throughout the year, includ- bus design, said, "our aim is to riculum with professional artists ing school holidays, to encourage offer state of the art equipment and and performers who are active in youngsters to use their time con- software. whilst making the learn- their fields, providing both tuition structively and steer them away ing experience fun. We hope that and inspiration." from anti-social activities, Ward councillor Justin Tomlinson some of the users will become as A bus is currently being fitted out competent as their instructors." said that there is a desperate need to deliver media training at schools The project will be central to for more youth provision in the andyouthcentresacrossSwindon Isambard Community School area. The lack of facilities and from January. It will have equip- which aims to achieve specialist open space and the lack of oppormentforcreating and editing video, status in Performing and Media tunity for constructive activity is animation and digital images as Arts. "This is an incredibly exciting very frustrating for young people in well as audio editing and web site opportunity for young people,"said North Swindon. I have no doubt creation. headteacher. Rachel Mattey. "In- thatthere will be an eager response Tomas Rawlings of Fluffy Logic, stead of using traditional methods, to the Flux project." the company responsible for the the project will deliver our arts curwww.artsmad.org.uk

fell "1 hem Ott -

His work is particularly dedicated to the 1,000 or so who did not return alive, only 92 of whom rest in Radnor Street Cemetery.

Within this labour of love are 600 photographs and insightful letters and cards home from the muddy and deadly battlefields of France and Flanders.

Most Swindon families were touched by service or loss in World War I, but equally for newcomers, the book provides a moving insight into the town's history.

Tell Them 0//Isis available at £12.99 from Waterstones and Swindon Information Centre. www.tellthemofus.org.uk

40

u

•zM: [•I• Classic Mealfor Two Prawn crackers & crispy seaweed 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

£17.88

Superior Mealfor Two 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 Special fried rice Fortune cookies

Complementary bottle of Lantbrini or Coke or beer with the Superior Meal

£21.88

29

Swindon Wide Brunel memories roll into the future An exhibition reflecting on the town's history and this year's events celebrating Brunel's birth 200 years ago through photographs. artwork, sculpture and video has opened at the Community Crossroads (former railwa y museum) in Fleet Street.

`'

Celebrate Burns Night in style at the De Vere Shaw Ridge Swindon with the traditional piping in of the haggis followed by a fabulous 3 course Scottish themed dinner and then an evenings entertainment with a live band and dancing.

ri

Friday 26th January 2007 In the Wilton Suite £23.00 per person

S

For further information & to book please call Claire MacKenzie on 01793 889364 'Tickets must be pre-booked & pre-paid and are non transferable and non refundable. No further discount appicable. 'The management reserve the right to alter or cancel the event without prior notice.

'Dresscode - formal, kilts optional

L3I

Exposing Swindon through art and imagery back from left Dania/ Rose, Danni King, Andy Preston. Front. Sally Tay/or, Bill Cox. Hilary C/ash, Steve Miner, Donald Brunwen Called The Ro//ing Exhibition a large collection of material and artifacts have been brought together by the New Mechanics' Trust. Individual work by members of the Swindon Artsite Collective looks at the sense of place in areas around the town.

Also included is a never seen video of Swindon children performing atthe Millennium Dome in 2000.

Organiser Martha Parry said, "it's incredible how the full story of the town is not told properly. Were

trying to bring together the collective memories of Swindon people to explain the character of the town, whilst also looking at where it is oin g The exhibition is open throughout December: Monday to Friday, 1 pm to 2pm; weekends 1 1 am to 2pm.

• Martha welcomes more photographs, video footage and chit dren's artwork to add to the exhibiti on. Call her on 520592 or mail: martha.parry@gmail.com

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30

Swindon Wide Santa Claus comes to Roves Farm

Family gifts at true wholesale prices With free postage and free gifts online

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Christmas festivities at Roves Farm are always something special, writes farmer Rupert Burr.

Following last year's hugely sucLast year saw record numbers through the doors with Father cessful carol concert, the choir reChristmas making a great impres- turns for another charity event on sion on over 1.600 children. This Thursday 21 December. Tickets year, we'll recreate the stable scene cost £5 per adult and £3 per child with the farm animals and Mary, (over 5 yrs), which includes a drink and a mince pie.

Joseph and baby Jesus.

All proceeds will go to the ProsThe children will have a choice of Christmas crafts to make and pect Hospice. take home with them. They can Opening times in December.

10. 30am to 3pm on.' dress up and join in with our nativity play with the farm animals. This Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd; year we have two new donkeys, Friday 8th. Saturday 9th and Hetty, an eight year old jenny and Sunday 10th; Sam, a two year old jack. Sooty and Sweep the sheep will be there Friday 15th until Monday 18th too and some llamas to take the inclusive; place of the camels.

Wednesday 20th until The story is told through the eyes Saturday 23rd inclusive. of Annie, the Highland cow and is Telephone bookings will be taken guaranteed to be a hoot. But most during opening hours from Friday importantly the children can go on 1 December. Groups, schools and that magical visit to Santa's grotto. playgroups can book earlier. Call: The Kentwood Choir are once 763939. again bringing the festive spirit to www.rovesfarm.co.uk Roves Farm.

Paper is still best ... says Jayne Yalden, Grange Park "The digital copy of The Link looks good online, but personally I like to sit on the sofa, relax and read the magazine -from cover to cover - each month."

Make yourself a home in Studley Grange workshop

Get the best of all worlds. To advertise in The Link, in our virtual edition and also at www.swindonlink.com call Nicola Norridge on 602540

Raising a mortgage for your dream house may not be possible but you could have one in miniature instead.

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The Dolls House Workshop in Studley Craft Village near M4Junction 16 has eighteen house styles, ranging from a Victorian town house to a pretty country cottage.

New owners can build their house at the workshop or have it done for them for a fee of £40.

Studley Grange owner Tony Miller. said that although a lot of shops sell kits, they don't provide the inspiration for furnishing and fitting the house. "We sell the kit and show people what they can do with it, and they can make it here."

Everything you might need for a real house is available: scaled down to one twelfth the original size. The shop stocks wallpaper, carpets, furniture, lights and Christmas trees to complete the look.

Unfinished furniture can be customised and helpful staff will give advice. There are drop in workshops on Wednesdays and Fri-

days, costing £5 plus materials, and a children's session runs on Sundays from 1 Oam to midday.

Demonstrator, Sue Shea, above. is passionate about getting the details just right but she doesn't like the houses to look too perfect. She encourages people to leave drawers open, a few books and papers and other signs of everyday life.

"It's all about techniques that make it look realistic and not too pristine. At the workshops we take furniture from basic to finishing it off. You can sit down and all the bits and pieces are here." www.studleygrange.co.uk

13

SWuidoo Wide Community looks back on its history There's a chance to walk down memory lane at an exhibition at Even Swindon Community Centre in Rodbourne on Sunday 3 December, 1 Oam to 4pm.

Former Swindon Town player, on the day. Films produced from Ernie Hunt, a Rodbourne lad him- archive material and interviews with self, will open the exhibition of pho- past and present residents will also tos. Census folders covering all be shown. the streets in the area will be availThe event will mark the launch of able so visitors will be able to trace abookproduced by the Rodbourne their family or find out who used to Community History Group. Walk li ve in their home.

Down the Lane features the hisCopies of any of the 1,200 pho- tory of Rodbourne Road through tos in the archive can be ordered the ages.

Moredon mix up Rodbourne Cheney Residents Association were cut upto see a mistake in November's Linkwhich featured a new hair salon in their area.

Association secretary Patricia Strange points out that the salon, A Cut Above, is found in Rodbourne Cheney and not Moredon as we stated.

She said that the shop on Blair Parade was on Moredon Road but definitely belonged to Rodbourne Cheney parish. "The name of Rodbourne Cheney started to disappear when it became part of the Borough of Swindon. It is a very old parish and, incidentally, Moredon is in the Rodbourne Cheney Parish."

The residents' association aims to make people aware of the history of the area as well as representing their interests now.

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Contact Santa via your computer With the help of Westlea mum, Susan Roberts. belo w, Santa has stepped into the 21st Century and can be contacted via email. www.santaspostbag.co.uk al- two months to set up with her partlows children to safely send Santa ner, Chris, who dealt with the techa gift wish - and receive a personal nical side of things. She said that, when both her children started secmessage via email in return, The free-to-use service took Sue ondary school, herthoughts turned to how quickly they grow up. She wanted to do something to let children enjoy the fun and excitement of writing to Santa. "It's important Christmas Fayre to keep the traditions. They should Saturday 2 December, 1.30pm enjoy being children for as long as Stalls. crafts, Santa's grotto possible.

West/ea Primary School

Fundraising

Christmas Fayre Friday 8 December 2.30pm to 4.30pm Westlea Pre-Schoo, Langstone Way Coffee & Mince Pies Saturday 9 December 10am to noon in aid of hall refurbishment Raffle and cake stall £1 includes drink and mince pie Lydiard Mi///cent Parish Hall Christmas Bazaar Saturday 9 December 10.30am to noon Crowdys Hi// School letter/es A venue

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"I mentioned my site to a couple of friends and my sister and everyone thought it was a great idea because it would be lovely to see the little kiddies' faces as they read their email from Santa."

The site has grown to include Christmas craft ideas, jokes, puzzles and articles. Sue said. "I love making things so writing articles about how to create Christmassy items was great."

There are instructions for making a coat hanger candelabra. a wellington boot Rudolph and Victorian style decorations and many more ideas. There are also helpful ti ps for shopping and preparing for the holidays.

awl Gra}'t ^V illage

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32

SWindGr Wide What's Christmas Music

Theatre Thursday 14th to Sat 16th, 7.30pm Comfort and Joy: presented by Old Town Theatre Company. Mike Harding's new comedy about Christmas is painfully familiar. There are inappropriate presents, culinary disasters and. as the alcohol flows. long buried resentments surface. £6.

I.ydin rd House & Park

Country House Christmas at Lydiard House

Arts Centre

Saturday 2 to Saturda y 23 December * See the State Rooms decorated for a Victorian family Christmas with real Christmas trees and traditional festive greenery and decorations

5 •

•

• •

•

• •

* Live festive music on Sunday afternoons from 2.30pm Purton Handbell Ringers on 3rd December Swindon Choral Society on 10th December Classical guitarists Stephen Seapey & Bob Jack on 17th Dec

Music Friday 8th, 8pm Three Men and Black. Supergroup formed by the songwriters of the best bands from 1976 to 1982, when punk. ska, two tone and new wave emerged to dominate the charts. £18.50. Arts

Centre Saturday 9th, 8pm

Normal house admission charge applies. Lydiard House is open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Sunday 2pm to 4pm

Purton Hand Bell Ringers Sunday 3rd, from 2.30pm Lydiard House

• y

Tel: 01793 770401 ;, Supported

by thy.

f5 Swtnon

British Blues Quintet featuring Maggie Bell one of the greatest blues and soul singers the UK has produced. £18.50. Arts Centre

Dance an - a C. aus comes t

V411 C^I

Friday 1 st to Saturday 2nd, 7.30pm An Evening with Propel Theatre Arts Academy. Dance, drama and singing from the children of the academy. £7 Arts Centre Friday 8th, 7.45pm Southerly Exposure: an exciting cocktail of emerging choreographers and stunning performers. £8.50.

Swindon Dance Wednesday 27th, 8pm I Family Night Christmas Dance with Maloney School of Irish Dancing.

Music by Tom Healy Band from County Cork. Tickets £10, on the

door. Grange Drive Sports Centre

Venues 0

Mary & Joseph in join in our Nativit' with the farm animals and

Open days in December, 10.30am - last entry 3.00pm Sat 2nd, Sun 3rd, Fri 8th, Sat 9th, Sun 10th, Fri 15th to Mon 18th inclus.

Wed 20th to Sat 23rd inclus. www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Swindon's Wessex Male Choir First Annual Christmas Concert with guests The Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir and The Janice Thompson Youth Singers.

Saturday 2nd, 7.30pm Bath Road Methodist Church Tickets. £8; concs £7 from Swindon Information Centre. tel: 530328 on the door or te/ : 812636 Kentwood Show Choir Christmas Cracker Sunday 3rd, 6.30pm Oasis Leisure Centre.

Tickets from Wyvern. Tel , 524481

www.lydiardpark.org.uk Heritage Lottery Fund

Swindon Choral Society Handel's Messiah Part 1 plus selected songs for Advent Saturday 2nd, 7.30pm St Marks Church. Church P/ace Tickets. Swindon information Centre. to/- 530328 or on the door.' £B: concs £6 : children under 15 £1

hrts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Community Crossroads Faringdon Road Tel: 520592 •_ower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane Tel: 771080 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Dance Town Hall Regent Circus Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Confirm date. time and with the venue

price

Swindon Choral Society Christmas carols Saturday 9th, from 2.30pm Lydiard House Swindon Scratch Choir Carols by Candlelight Saturday 9th, 6pm to 7.30pm An old-fashioned 21st Century evening. Dress warmly and bring a torch. £3 adult, £1.50 child Lower Shaw Farm Swindon Choral Society Traditional Christmas carols Sunday 10th, from 2.30pm Lydiard House Thamesdown Ladies Choir Christmas Concert Thursday 14th, 7.30pm £5. Bath Road Methodist Church Wootton Bassett Brass Band Celebration of Christmas Music Friday 15th, 7.30pm Toothili Church Swindon Choral Society Concert for Christmas with Ruskin School Choir including carols for all Saturday 16th, 7.30pm St Barnabas Church, Gorse Hill Tickets: Swindon Information Centre, teC 530328 or on the door: £8,- concs £6: children under 15 £ 1 Christmas Concert Saturday 16th, 7.30pm Band of the Wiltshire Constabulary St Augustine 's Church. Rodbourne. £5, £4 conc. on the door Stephen Seapey & Bob Jack, classical guitarists Sunday 17th, from 2.30pm Lydiard House

33

On in eember Exhibitions

Film

Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd Nythe Painting Club exhibition and sale of original paintings and drawings. Nythe Community Centre.

Free Saturday 2nd, 10am to 4.30pm G5 Plus. Exhibition and sale . Free.

Highworth Rec Sunday 3rd, 10am to 4pm Rodbourne Community History Project. Display of photos of Rodbourne and archive films. Free.

Even Swindon Community Centre.

Seepage 31

Wednesday 6th, 7.45pm

To Saturday 22nd Affordable Art. Original artworks including prints, paintings, drawings and photos. Free. Arts Centre To Sunday 31st, weekdays 1 pm to 2pm, weekends 11am to 2pm The Rolling Exhibition. A display of photographs and artefacts from the town's celebrations of Brunel 200.

Free. The Community Crossroads.

See page 29 To Saturday 30th December Treasure. What makes a treasure?

Precious metals, age, rarity? Or all three? Find out more in this exhibition of archaeological treasure from the Swindon area. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery To March 2007 A Sense of Place. Exploring the much loved subject of landscape over the past 100 years. featuring works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. Includes works

by Paul Nash. Graham Sutherland and Richard Long. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Children & Family Events Sunday 3rd, 10am to 4pm Seasonal Crafts and Gifts. Make cards, decorations, willow wreaths and small gifts. For over 5s to adult. £15 chi/d, £30 adult including materia/s and lunch. Lower Shaw Farm Thursday 7th to Saturday 9th, 7.30pm & Saturday 9th, 2.30pm Treasure Island Pantomime performed by Wroughton Amateur Dramatic and Music Society. All children are invited to dress as pirates. Ca//813847 for tickets. £6.

E//endune Centre, Wroughton Saturday 9th, 12 noon to 3.30pm Make Christmas decorations.

Drop-in activity. Free. Stab/eBui/ding Lydiard House Saturday 9th, 2pm Family storywalk. Free. Startingin front of Lydiard House Thursday 4th December to Saturday 6th Jan, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Cinderella. An extended run for the panto presented by Stagestruck. £8.

Arts Centre

Line Dance

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Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon Joyeux Noel (12A) A moving account of a well-known story: Christmas Eve 1914 in the trenches.

An impromptu truce leads to afoot ball match in no-man's land. SFS. Arts Centre Thursday 7th, 7.45pm The Mistress of Spices (12A) A beautiful yet aloof young Indian woman, trained in the ancient and magical art of spices, runs a bazaar in San Fransisco. £4. Arts Centre Friday 15th, 7.45pm Spirited Away (PG) A magical tale for Christmas from the maestro of Japanese animation, Hayao Miyazaki. Chihiro and her parents become trapped in a mysterious spirit world. Can she break the spell and free them? SFS. St Michael's Ha//, High worth Wednesday 20th, 7.45pm Seducing Doctor Lewis (15) A comedy set in a remote French Canadian fishing village, where the locals have to persuade a doctor to take up residence to secure their economic future. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are formembers only. It i's possible to join on any film evening.

Comedy Sunday 3rd, 7.30pm

For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

New stock now in • Bridal fabrics • Velvet • Stretch fabrics • Calico • Fire-resistant fabric • Fleece • and haberdashery Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm 25 Tennyson Street SWINDON

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FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yams and Patterns We'll also gladly order anything else you need. -

Dolls houses & miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the Stable A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent An Evening with Marcus Brigstocke. Most recently seen on Jack Dees Live from the Apollo. and heard a lot on BBC Radio 4, Marcus has emerged as a major comedy talent. £12 Arts Centre

In the Garden Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world Mon to Sat 10am to 5pm • Sun 11 am to 5pm

34

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Murals are a tourist attraction Swindon was once famous for its

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artistic expressions disappeared and now do not feature in the town centre regeneration plans.

However artist Ken White from Old Town, who created many of Swindon's outoor artworks, has been kept busy over the years

to decay.

painting murals in restaurants, Vir-

They told fascinating stories about the town, but they fell out of favour with Swindon Council, who commissioned many of them, and the impetus for these remarkable

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Prisoners of Conscience—people who are imprisoned purely for beliefs - and human rights campaigners around the world.

They aim to give hope to those House, Eastcott Road, from imprisoned or facing persecution 7.30pm to 9pm.

"The evening is open to all, memat this time of year. The number of

cardsreceivedalsosendsastrong

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message to those committing

group contact Emma Bushell.

abuses that the eyes of the world

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Swindon and Marlborough Am-

hope over Christmas.

nesty International group holds its Christmas Greetings Card Campaign meeting on Thursday 14 De-

For details call Emma Bushell on 07876 430582 or mail: emmabushell@yahoo.co.uk

cember at the Friends Meeting

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Swirdoo Will - but not here any longer town of Sussex in New Brunswick on the east side of the country, below one of 11 created by renowed muralists.

"I submitted a proposal after I discovered on the internet that the town wanted to do more to attract visitors by making an outdoor art gallery," said Ken. "I sent photos of my work and they asked me to recreate the Sussex Vale Exhibition Building which was built therein 1861 but was demolished a year later."

The Go/denLionmuralpaintedbyKenin 1976, The work took him a restoredin 1985 Photo: TonyLeggett Below month with a couple of themura/in2003 It has sincetadedalotmore days rain interruption.

The project organisers are so pleased with Ken's work that they might be asking him to return to take part in the second phase of the project next summer.

Ken's work is also a tourist attraction in Invergordon, Scotland. "Murals make a real difference to the towns. People visit, spend money and use other facilities.

As a result more shops and restaurants open up.

There are dozens of mural towns across Canada: you can see a map on the internet." tion they would be here.

However Ken, modestly, is un"But I'd like to re-do the Golden sure how effective the return of Lion mural; it's faded so much that murals to the Swindon scene would it's almost unrecognisable. Lots of be. When I did them here in the people have said how sad they are 70s it brightened the place up a lot. about its condition."

The murals in Canada and Scot- www.sussexmurals.com land certainly do that. But those www.muralroutes.com towns don't have the range of attractions that we have, so I'm not www.invergordonoffthewall.co.uk sure how much of a tourist attrac- www.kenwhitemurals.co.uk The Sussex Vale Exhibition Building mural by Ken White, 2006

35

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36

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Freshbrook youngsters consider Link Centre's future Year 4 and 5 pupils at Freshbrook Primary School studying democracy for young citizens in their personal, social and health education lessons looked at the future of West Swindon's recreation and sports centre in November.

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Teaching assistant Nicki Sellars said she had picked up the issue from articles in The Link and asked the youngsters to look at how they use the centre, what kind of new facilities the y would like and also Swindon Council's policy on leisure centres.

"Almost all of the children in the two classes use the centre regularly for leisure and classes," she said. "They like the idea of a bigger pool in time for the Olympics when they will be 15 or 16, and they also want an indoor ski slope in the area."

Rimsha Mohammed said, "we looked at the council's 50 promises; it was a shock to see that they might knock it down. Link Centre's a good place to go.

"We all made posters showing how we use it, and some people have done posters saying it shouldn't be closed."

Carl Reid said, "I go there for after-school classes. It would be good to have a 50 metre pool, but we're all worried that the council might want to build another centre further away. We can all walk there now."

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It's a hard life for some One of the nice things about working for The Link is that you're asked to try out different treatments says advertising sales manager Nicola Norridge.

One of our advertisers Liz Wright who owns Palmer Cutler West here at Basepoint said she was broadening her business beyond the well known tanning system made famous by Eastenders star Patsy Palmer. The salon is tucked away in a quiet part of the business centre and once inside you can really relax and soak up the atmosphere.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 37

Asda trolley cable holds up pitches Construction of two floodlit, fenced outdoor pitches at Link Centre next to the Tewkesbury Cross roundabout - has been held up by the discovery of an electric cable laid by the Asda Walmart corporation, apparently without planning permission.

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The climbing wall also has new lighting and soundproof curtains and work on a new cafe and shop in the mall has started.

Swim club scores 123 successes Swim Channel, the learn-to-swim programme from Swindon Dolphin Amateur Swimming Club attracted an impressive 123 new applicants at the West Swindon Shopping Centre during the October half term.

Swim Channel is the latest way of Swim Channel in such a relaxed to learn to swim with qualified and friendly environment." coaches and teachers bringing enSwimming development officer joyment and passion to the correct Steve Cryer commented, "this was teaching of all four stroke disci- our second roadshow and we're plines providing skills for life, developing a very professional The scheme follows the National wa y of promoting Swim Channel.

Plan for Teaching Swimming The response has been absolutely (NPTS) with the potential for new fantastic with new applicants en- i recruits to join the Swindon Dol- joying the opportunity to learn phin club structure, more about the sport in an inforParent Bridgett Tubb said, "it mal setting." was a fantastic weekend and our To join Swim Channel, contact thanks go to the West Swindon Steve Crver on 07868 622422 or Shopping Centre an d staff for al- email: development@swimlowing us to promote the benefits channel.co.uk Dolphin swimmers, coaches and parent helpers recruiting at th e West Sncindc^: Centre Z

7

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Tournament for recreational players Badminton England is organising a competition for casual and recreati onal players at Link Centre on Saturday 13 January.

The closing date for registration is 31 December. Entry forms are available at Link Centre. or call Yvonne Gillam on 874577 or 07967 341104. or mail: yvonne.gilliam@btopenworld.com

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The cable was put down when Asda introduced the electronic trolley lock system last year. And because it surrounds Link Centre, council staff now spend time collecting them because shoppers leave them all over the site.

Work on the pitches was due to start in November, but will not now commence until January.

Approval has been given for two pitches and a third is being consid-

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Young player could be called up for England XV A promising rugby player who first started the game in Swindon could make full international status in time for next year's World Cup. Mike Brown, right, squad, which won under 8s and progressed to repre- end of the season when he recieved joined the mini-rugby the Grand Slam in sent Dorset & Wilts at all youth the Nick Duncombe Young Player programme aged 5 at the 2006 Six Na- levels, and also the South West of the Season Trophy.

Supermarine when Most recently, at the end of Octions Champion- Under 18s. heattendedToothill's ship, playing in all He then represented Hampshire tober, in the European Challenge Oliver Tomkins In five matches, scor- at under 20s level then joined Har- Cup, Harlequins thrashed French fants School. He was ing two tries and lequins in 2002. He made his first side Montpellier 57-10 with Mike pictured in The Link one penalty. team start in National League One scoring a hat-trick of tries. in 1991 promoting Mike's family, earlier this year when the club won WithEngland'slamentablepermini-rugby. who lived in promotion back to the Premier- formance against Argentina on 11 Now he plays full November, Mike may shortly be Grange Park, ship. back for London club Mike's contribution to Harle- in the running for full international moved to SalisNEC Harlequins and bury when he was quins'successwasrecognisedatthe honours. is a member of the ' w i 7 where he joined England Under 21 r" i. the local club's

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Link advertiser Les Slinn hopes to have raised £1,000 for Prospect Hospice in November after completing the ING New York Marathon in 3 hours 49 minutes on 5 November, 15 minutes faster than his time last year.

This put him in the top fifth of the field of 37,000 runners which included 7 times Tour de France winner and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong.

To make a retrospective donation to Prospect recognising Les' effort go to: www.justgiving.com/lesslinn

Girls wanted by footie club Shaw FC is embarking on a new challenge for the 2007/2008 season by running under 12s and under 14s girls team.

The club already has several boys teams but with the profile of girls' football rising all the time - and demand from girls to play - the teams are being formed to prepare for weekly league competition in a year's time. Subject to demand under 10s and under 16s are a possibility.

Managers and coaches are in place to get the teams ready, now they need the players. To book a trial contact club secretary Karen Prictor on 525680 mail: karen.prictor@btopenworld.com or call Claire Gibbs on 07707 241971.

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The under 11s with sponsor Mustaque Ahmed, centre, Rob Weller, coach, left, and Steve Bradley, manager

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Bhaji's Takeaway on Thames ship, I was happy to help out."

Avenue has helped to buy a new The club plays in the North kit for the team, with joint spon- WiltsYouth League and is despersors ESP Colour Print having their ately waiting for the community name on the back of the shirts. facilities at Isambard School in Takeaway owner Mustaque Priory Vale to come available in Ahmed, usually a Chelsea sup- early December so that youngsters porter, said he was happy to back can enjoy indoor training. For dethe club. "We're well established tails about joining the squad, call in the area and when Steve Bradley Steve Bradley on 721529 or 07769 the manager asked for sponsor- 883735.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 39 tic Th

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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With our system we will clean, seal, protect and polish your vehicle inside and out without using any water.

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Call today: 01793 484950 Unit 4 Axis Business Centre, Westmead. Swindon

More wheels for Shopmobility A shiny new scooter can now be seen whizzing around the shops in the town centre, thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Friends of Swindon Shopmobility.

The service delivered by Swindon Council is used by over 270 people, six days a week, from its base in the Wyvern car park.

Shopmobility has 45 scooters, 8 powerchairs, 30 manual wheelchairs and 3 walkers. There are large and small scooters suitable for people of different sizes.

For details of the service call 512621.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 41

Fire fighters take to the road Fire fighters from Westlea Station will be touring West Swindon in the early evenings of 17 to 20 December.

The streets to be visited have yet to be confirmed. Pridais e^_ mary schools in the areas will be informed a few days beforehand. Listen out for the brass bell and a loud ho-ho ho and give generously to the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund.

The fire fighters will also be seen collecing in supermarket car parks in December.

Last year's collections raised over ÂŁ3,500 and the crews hope to top that total this year.

Helping Santa last December, Lydia Jarmey and Rees Evans

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS onic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (IVo VAT to pay) CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

SWINDON CYC ES With 250 bikes on show THE price is right THE parking is free

Swindon's youngest world champ Toothill's Ryan Embling, 8, returned from mid-November's World Kickboxing Championships in Malta as winner in two categories and runner up in a third where he fought an older boy.

Despite head guards Ryan received an impressive black eye but came home with some big trophies.

He was sponsored by Dominos Pizza and had an England flag haircut thanks to Paul Edwards of Hairworks at Freshbrook.

Parts, repairs, accessories, back up stock Open: Mon to Sat 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

^/ I E

42

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Traffic gets heavy in Oakhurst

MULTIFIX Painting & decorating Glazed tiling Timber decking, supply & fit Rubbish clearance, household & garden Carpentry Kitchen fitting, supply & fit Bathroom fitting & adaptions Worktop mitres and fitting Laminate flooring, supply & fit Peter Carpenter

Tel: 01793 613151 Mobile: 07836 799614 or 07813 874284

People living in the Oakhurst area of Priory Vale are living in fear of a serious accident as heavy site traffic rumbles through their streets and feel that no-one is prepared to take action to protect them.

Stephanie Exell of the Oakhurst and Leisure to discuss concerns developers.

Stephanie Exell can be contacted Residents' Association, said that and complaints.

He hopes the council will be able on 703276 or mail: justint@tbCouncil Leader Roderick Bluh has told her that the council is power- to help residents to be tougher with marketing.com less to impose restrictions on onadopted roads.

Emergency volunteer help needed In the meantime, people comA British Red Cross service which helps people cope in the aftermath plain that heavy vehicles are putting property and lives at risk. of a fire or emergency, by providing practical help, advice and Mrs Exell is particularly concerned comfort is looking for more volunteers.

The Red Cross works closely mobile phone. Volunteers also help with the new Wimpey building site, off Southwold Close, because with Wiltshire Fire Service and has contact insurance companies, sodelivery trucks are driving through a motor caravan based at Westlea cial services, relatives or find alterthe middle of the residential area Fire Station. Volunteers work in native accommodation.

Volunteers should live within from Tadpole Lane. She said, "they pairs and are on call every night, are driving too fast and on occa- weekend and bank holiday. When 30 minutes of Westlea Fire Station, sions have been inches from the fire service request assistance, have common sense and a mature houses, after mounting the pave- the volunteers collect the emer- attitude. The Red Cross provides gency support vehicle and drive to full training, workwear and supment." port, and pays expenses.

The developers have placed the scene of the incident, For details call Christine Powell, The caravan is equipped with screw-in posts by the roadside to prevent this happening but Mrs things needed at this difficult time: Fire and Emergency Support CoExell has seen lorry drivers un- a change of clothing, snacks and ordinator , on 859933 or mail: screw the barriers to allow them to drinks, use of a shower, toilet and cpowell@redcross.org.uk mount the kerb. She says she feels bullied by the developers. "Their iPod or pet? Research both first view is that they own the site and Many people will spend more time considering which LCD television they can do what they like. They've not shown an ounce of sympathy or hi-fi to buy this Christmas than they will on choosing the ideal pet. to residents living in adjacent To reinforce the annual message ily. Points to take into considerasites." that looking after an animal is a tion include the time available for Local councillor Justin Tomlin- long-term commitment, Drove pet care, and the cost of food, vacson has arranged for residents to Veterinary Hospital has launched cinations, insurance and holiday meet the Director of Environment a new initiative. Anyone thinking arrangements.

The vets are asking owners to of buying a pet can ring any of the Drove practices to speak toavetor stop and think about all the hard nurse who will be able to discuss work that a new pet will bring. The the pitfalls and benefits of pet own- hope is that when people are fully informed of their responsibilities ership.

They will help people decide and options, there will be fewer which pet will best suit their fam- abandoned animals this year.

Guide Dogs' hunting for treasure Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but any old jewellery, coins, watches and keys will be good enough for a guide dog puppy. .,.

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has launched a new fundraising appeal, encouraging -;# people to donate these often forgotten metallic items.

Foreign and old coins can become lost over time in the bottom of drawers, sharing their space X~ with out of fashion necklaces and rings, or keys that no longer have a lock.

Of no value to their owner, they can make a real difference to blind and partially sighted people, recycled to help finance the training of future guide dogs.

At today's prices recycling is a valuable fundraiser for guide dogs.

The charity can make complete face ing guide dogs in the UK. With value on all major currencies, such these fantastic dogs so precious to as Euros and American Dollars. their owners, it's a great year to Similar rate of return is possible on launch our Treasure Hunt old British coins, such as 5p, 10p, fundraising and recycling appeal."

For details on where to recycle 50p.

Nick Hardy of the Guide Dogs your old jewellery, coins, watches Association said, "this year is the and keys for Guide Dogs call 0845 75th anniversary of the first work- 603 9779.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 43

Keep Warm Keep Well says Age Concern The balmy weather of this Autumn was broken for a few days in early November, reminding us that frost still occurs and that winter might hit us anytime.

Free winter warmth information packs are now available from Age Concern Swindon for older residents throughout the borough.

They contain handy tips about keeping warm and saving money on winter fuel bills. With a free wall thermometer too, the packs are just what you need to stay cosy. Call into Age Concern Swindon, 1 Milton Road, SN1 5JE from Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm to pick one up, or send four 2nd class stamps to cover postage.

Anybody not acted on Farepak?

South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove has been working hard to ensure people who have lost their savings in the Farepak scandal will enjoy a happy Christmas.

She suspects there are people who have not come forward because they have lost only a small amount of money, or do not know what to do.

If you have not responded to all the publicity in November, call Anne on 615444 or mail: annesnelgrovemp@parliament .uk Credit Unions offer low cost loans to Farepak savers Co-operative Futures, the community enterprise support agenc y in Oxon, Gloucestershire Swindon & Wiltshire has joined forces with Anne Snelgrove to ensure that Swindon people have access to an emergency loan of £250 through the town's two community Credit Unions.

It is stressed that this is a loan, but repayments are calculated to what individuals are able to afford. The interest rate is 12.68pc APR, which equates to 1pc per month, and interest is only paid on the declining loan balance.

Anne Snelgrove has contacted local companies such as Nationwide and MAN asking each to offer £1,000 to underwrite the fund.

For Credit Union details call Julie Allen on 848899.

• Older People can also contact Age Concern Swindon for advice

Theft damages charity Age Concern Swindon suffered a break-in it could ill afford at the end of October.

Around £2,000 worth of property was stolen or damaged including a laptop computer and projector bought with a National Lottery grant only months ago.

Small amounts of cash and stamps were stolen. Locked furniture was broken open and damaged but an unsuccessful attempt was made to open a safe.

Jo Osorio, director of Age Concern Swindon, said, "we are very disappointed that a charity like ours has been attacked in this way.

We urgently need to raise funds this winter to meet a £50,000 anticipated deficit in our budget."

Donations will be gratefully received and organisations willing to arrange a fundraising event to help are invited to call Jo on 692166.

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Photograph

•

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44

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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PET FOOD SPECIAL OFFERS Hills Science Plan, Feline Adult 2kg, was £11.99, Special Price £8.99 James Wellbeloved Adult Dog Food 15kg, was £36.99, Special Price £29.99 Pedigree Complete 15kg, was £23.99, Special Price £19.99

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The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is running its Adopt an Animal scheme for the second year, to help with its vital work in protecting the wildlife in the county.

They have ducks, otters and cows on offer. By sponsoring an animal you will help trust projects by protecting the creatures and conservation areas, and also fund

Adopting an animal costs as little as £20 for a duck or cow, and £26.50 for an otter. The person on whose behalf you adopt the animal will receive a unique gift box containing a cute cuddly soft toy with information about the work to protect the animal, an adoption certificate, pen and window sticker.

The recipient can then register to receive two updates in 2007 about their animal and the projects associated with encouraging biodiversity across Wiltshire.

To buy an adoption box call the trust on 01380 725670, or download an order form from: www.wiltshirewildlife.org Orders for Christmas must be received by 12 December.

Bash and Slash the River Ray Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is inviting everyone who has given their time to help its Swindon projects this year to a Bash & Slash on 3 December at Rivermead, the scene of a lot of hard work during 2006.

The second of the three-phase restoration project is now complete and has recently won a highly commended award from Biffaward. Anybody who would like to know about the project, and the third phase is invited along as well.

Project manager Jo Sayer said the river has been changed from a featureless ditch hidden by vegetation. "It meanders through the meadow, with pools and shallow stony riffles that provides wonderful habitat for wildlife and also birds."

Bashing and slashing from 11am involves site maintenance and improvement. But there will be time for mulled wine, bonfire-baked jacket potatoes, mince pies and convivial chat. For details call 526228, mail neilp@wiltshirewildlife.org

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 45

Dreaming of a green Christmas Cards, batteries, trees - they can all be recycled once the season of grand excess has passed.

Last year 1.2 tonnes of used to the Waterside. But if theyhavea Christmas cards were collected in green sack wrapped round it, the special bins in shops across Swin- council will collect trees as part of don. But most households can use the free garden waste collection the council's kerb side collections service. The trees are shredded and to clear the Christmas clutter, and composted locally for reuse in gardens and council parks. keep it out of landfill, In the great real versus fake Xmas Swindon Commercial Services will be donating £200 to the Wood- tree debate, Swindon Council's land Trust for all the cards recy- Waste Contracts Liaison Officer Andrew Cook comes down in facled in the town. y y our of a real tree. "Most of the Don't throw awa all those dead batteries after the Christmas toys evidence suggests real trees are have been given a good workover. better for the environment - so long In household waste they'll go into as you buy locally and compost landfill and pollute the ground. your tree after use. The best option They can be left at the council's is to buy a tree with roots, that you recycling centre at Waterside Park, can plant back into the garden."

If you have an artificial tree, the Cheney Manor to be broken down more years you reuse it, the better safely.

Christmas trees can also be taken it will be for the environment.

LAADSERVE Garden Maintenance & Landscaping Professional care y for our garden Grass Cutting -regular

Chelworth Landscapes Fencing ci Garden Maintenance

^%

• Fencing and gates Closeboard, tie//is. pane/s. picket chain/ink security etc

maintenance

• Landscaping

Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting 8;. Pruning

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• Garden maintenance Giasscutting, tree and shrub pruning. clearance etc.

No Job Too Small.All works insured

Call Martin Emery Ml llort. for free quotation on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

Fort 'Tee quotation phone (01793) 702029 wwe '.c'heh1ortldandsca cs.co.irk

A W (;ARI)EN SERVI('ES Every client & every garden is different.

To fulfil the potential of your garden we offer a planning & design service. from a Gold Medal winning designer.

Trees from South Leaze Real trees can be bought from South Leaze Farm, located behind Staples, at Mannington.

Farmer Brenda Bell said that over the last few years the best seller has been the Nordman which hardly sheds needles at all. These are her tips for choosing and caring for a tree: • If you want perfection, buy an artificial tree: the beauty of real trees is that they are all different; • Cut a small slice off the trunk to help water uptake; • Buy a stand that holds water, or make sure you remember to water regularly as a tree can drink a pint a day; • Keep the tree outdoors for as long as possible; • There are special sprays to help retain needles but NEVER use hairspray as it is flammable.

South Leaze Farm not only sells trees, but also provides a collection service for £3 once twelfth night has passed. See the advert on page 8.

Good quality seed sown turf + Free delivery + No minimum order

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We offer a complete or phased project

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r

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0 Block Paving 0 Landscaping Fencing 71 Decorative Stone 71 General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

;

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

46

Air cadets recruiting again 'JJTht

C

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No time for DIY? HANDYMAN ai riorne'M Quality service for all your DlY jobs

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All types of job in one visit Call (local rate)

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0845 200 7821 see our website for more details www.handymanathome.co.uk Let us quote for your larger jobs too

An open evening for recruits to the West Swindon Air Training Corps detached flight in September 2005 was so successful that its taken 16 months ago to absorb the new cadets.

However there's another chance Irrl^ to join up on 5 January, 7.30pm, in the Sunshine Room at Westlea School.

1 Warrent Officer Helene Woodham, who commands the flight, said three quarters of the recruits who attended the last open evening had heard about the event through The Link. Cadets come =from West and North Swindon, as well as outlying areas like Purton, _ -° and very few have dropped out.

Boys and girls aged 13 and over, parents, relatives and friends are welcome to come along to meet cadets and staff and learn about ATC activities. The cadets will give a short drill display at the beginning of the evening.

Instructor Cadet Warrant Officer Dan Wells of 1244 West Swindon receives his Some of the unit's activities over CWO certificate and his Lord Lieutenants cadet certi fi cate and badge from WO the past year included glider train- Helene Wood/taut in October ing at Hullavington, flying in the and adventure training in Wales to gain confidence in doing someRAF's basic trainer at Boscombe and the Lake District where cadets thing new, meet new friends, the Down and helping to organise took part in kayaking, canoeing, detached flight will be pleased to June's Kemble air show. see you at the open evening. mountain walking and climbing.

Cadets attended a summer camp For details of the detachment, Whether you are interested in at two RAF stations and have repjoining the Royal Air Force or need mail: helenewoodham@fsmail.net resented the region, wing or squadron throughout the year in hockey, netball, rugby, football, swimming,

athletics and cross country.

Outdoor activities have included map reading on Dartmoor, weeks

Brian Brookfield from Abbey Meads is starting a club for electric bike owners to provide advice and practical help with servicing and repairs.

Call him on 07831 575758.

Want to be pampered this Christmas?

Don't delay, book an appointment at the one stop shop of Cre'8 for the full treatment in hair, beauty and nail services.

Relax with a glass of champagne and allow our talented staff to make your visit a special one.

Complimentary skin care tests while you wait

by La Biosthetique ® the new introduction in skin treatments for the youthful looks you have always wanted.

Dare to Cre'8 your new image?

CALL NOW C

LF1

dAIrz 6`AUTY SALON

7

78 Thames Avenue, Greenmeadow, Swindon Tel: 01793 520813 www.cre8hair.co.uk

l

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 47

CHARISMA

4

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rrainhow rainbow of colours to brighten, ur home this Winter ds - the place for quality and value Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds

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

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Anything Stone UK Ltd. Suppliers of finely finished granite, marble, li mestone, slate, sandstone and gypsum

Granite Worktops Table tops, bar tops, shop counters. reception desks.

R ;

Granite worktops from £137 per metre.

E :;

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Local supplier, stockists & installers

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ASSt:J Plumbing & A local re/iable & friendly service

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NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace O Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits O Garden lights & sockets. pond pumps O Wiring for log cabins. garages. sheds O Electrical inspection & testing O Portable appliance testing O Air conditioning supplied & installed O Trustmark & Part P registered Call James Nicholls on

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50

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PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

61P

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Call Andy: 01793 729354

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ELECTRICIAN

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DECORATOR

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•

HEATING & PLUMBING

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HOME MAINTENANCE

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QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

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52

ACCOUNTANCY

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CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS

*l:[I 1 1

MI

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•

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`

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ointe' dere

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All work guarantee Call Neil Provis on

Located o ff the A41 9, ample parking 16 Dorcan Business Village, Murdock Road, Swindon SN3 5HY

CARPETS

AERIAL SERVICES

Tel: 01793 700016 Mobile: 0717 6236415

01225 706379

or 07774 943 783

CHAUFFEUR HIRE

CARPET CLEANING

Whitewa Swindon's specialist home selection service for laminate, wool twists, man made/natural fibres and vinyl floor covering Professional fitting service and satisfaction guaranteed.

Contact Trevor for a no obligation appointment at a time to suit you, day or evening.

Domestic Cleaning Services

The Carpet &

uxura

www.carpetsswindon.co.uk

Email: cliIT.achiteaaNt htinternet.com

For family holidays, business trips and all occasions, we cater for 1 to 8 passengers Call for a competitive quote now!

Tel: 01793 703899

' o efrasel.c'o.tit.

Project manager Mandy email: mandy@donendusted.info www.donendusted.info

GARDEN CLEARANCE

C, CLEAR AWAY GARDEN & HOUSEHOLD CLEARANCE

Inspection tests • Outside sockets for your Christmas lights.

Re wiring, new sockets and all your electrical tasks • Part P approved

I

rri

From Swindon to...

Gatwick - Heathrow Bristol - Birmingham Stansted

in to'"

Mob: 07909 500724

• Home cinema installation

hours. inc. eve/weekends

J6ARPS

?;.

Tel: 01793 814782

Get Wired for Christmas!

,

MINI B US HIRE

orporate tra t i fir- Sea - Rail 'eshoppinod:'• Sportiu Prom it

Tel: 01793 854490 lobile: 07796 508840 fiu+.f:

Weekly Fortnightly Monthly

y

Lewis & Leo Electrical L td

-i Jargon free advice & support -i Upgrades/repairs =i All parts & labour guaranteed

Mobile: 0792 005 6077

,

ate Hire

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Corn Master's v, PC Repairs

Tel: 01793 422534 or

i'eur seadive tra: tripss pampe, lditu oe, _

c.

• Quickly usable

Tel: 01793 812995 Mobile: 07860 882588

Flexible

'l'RAV'Et

"ECli'f

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

Why go anywhere else?

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

- Free home & business visits

CLEANING one r n' Dusted

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

COMPUTER SUPPORT

I

SKY

6 or 07928 723890 Tel: 07738 177506

OVEN CLEANING OVENCLEJ4N, The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time.

Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

REMOVALS

WHITE VAN MAN f

Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £20

Disposal of unwanted items Full house removal Long/short distance Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 828700 Mobile: 07796 236436

NO JOB TOO SMALL Also odd jobs & decorating Free estimates Call Danny on 01793 702407 or 07957 820064

SECURITY SYSTEMS

^SE

security systems ltd

Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers • CCTV • Access Control & Intercoms Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitorin

•

• • ssaib

w^

53

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

F REMER Rlectrics Established 30 years

Guaranteed

APPLIANCE REPAIRS ►

- '

-

-

-

Same day, local service Washing Machines

of domestic appliances

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

special cake?

-..

Or not known what design the

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B,

should be?

Look no further,

experience.

let me help you

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE House cleans from £15 per house Ironing £15 per basket, collected and returned the next day

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel. 01793 511885

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

01793 513796 email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

SECURITY SYSTEMS -

z'

TTL

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Electronic Securit Solutions O INTRUDER ALARMS O CCTV SYSTEMS

0 FIRE ALARMS O EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS O ACCESS CONTROL O ENTRY SYSTEMS O GATE AUTOMATION For a free, no obligation quotation ^^SSalb tel: 01793 705216

www.cakesbaked4u.co.uk

PC Problem .

We'll fix it.

Fast, friendly computer experts for your home or business.

THEPCGUYS

08000 514 513 Call free for details or visit www.thepcguysonline.com

WWW.STEAMQUEENS.COM

24 Hour Ironing Service Collect / Iron Deliver

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk 10% discount with this advert

Ring Sylvia on 01793 771552

COMPUTER SUPPORT

IRONING

GARAGE DOO RS

^ *? ,, ±

wedding cake

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Sei(5 The Automatic Choice

Had trouble finding that

qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years'

CLEANING

merry

after a hard day's work?

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

Tel: 01793 469300

Homes That Sparkle From !maids.

People Who Shine'

CAKESBAKED4U

Twin Tubs, etc.

Same day/next day service y y

CLEANING

Can't face doing the books ' °

wherever possible

repairs to all makes

CAK ES BAKED

BOOK-KEEPING

ISTI Got something to move - large or small? eaMM - • MW

turners

5 fully insured vehicles with driver.

From a long wheel based to a small van, we have what you need

turners

Logistics Ltd

Freephone: 0800 6122014

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates * No call out charge * All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

Call 07862 735433

54

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Supporting the less fortunate during the festive season

Anthony m/

Swindon Christmas Care is providing shelter, food and clothing for the homeless and those in need of company from Christmas Eve to Thursday 28 December at Queens Drive Methodist Church, Park South.

No bedding or clothing can be The project depends entirely on penses is also needed.

Items can be delivered to Queens accepted after 19 December. voluntary donations of warm clothing, bedding, toys, books, toi- Drive Methodist Church on Fri- For details call Patsy Moloney letries and towels, food and con- day 15 and Tuesday 19 December, on 642368 or to volunteer your help fectionery. Money to cover ex- 7pm to 9.30pm and on Saturday 16 to the project, call Betty Spence on 485483.

December, 10am to 3.30pm.

Mobile Hairdresser ( 793) 3 234 01

00

or 07970 079681

Over 20 years experience in ladies, incns & c li ildrens llairdressin ^

P5 SERVICES

Sleepout volunteers wanted

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

"This year, make a difference; actions speak louder than words" says the Bishop of Swindon, Lee Rayfield.

On Friday 8 December, 8pm, at at this time of year. I am encouragImmanuel UR Church, Upham ing people to spend Friday 8 DeRoad, he will launch this year's cember helping us raise much sleepoutinaidofThresholdHous- needed funds for the homeless of Swindon by being sponsored to ing Link.

Eighty people are expected to take part, buying a CD, or making experience what it's like to sleep a donation.

Threshold has seen a rise in the rough in the open air at Upham Road. Others will be spending the number of homeless people seeknight under shelter in the RWE ing help. Although last year their nPower car park at Windmill Hill, Culvery Court hostel accommodated and assisted 258 people, on West Swindon.

The night starts with music from 350 occasions people were turned Swindon band New Creation who away due to no beds being availare selling their new CD in aid of able.

Of the people that Threshold Threshold.

The sleepout starts after coffee helped, 72 per cent were local and mince pies at 10pm and goes homeless and 88 pc had slept rough on until 6am when a hot breakfast prior to coming into the hostel.

To sleep out call Threshold's ofis provided for all participants befice on 524661 for a sponsor pack. fore they return home.

Bishop Rayfield said, "imagine Donate to Threshold online at: what it must be like to be homeless www.justgiving.com/thl/donate

'

LEARN TO PLAY THE VIOLIN with

DISC SERVICE

Swindon Suzuki Strings

Specialist in Cine Film Transfer. Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes. Camcorder Discs %%e collect and Belk er u5 cr it Ni ide area

Suitable for all ages

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758

01793 700099

PO Box 2079, Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

http://www.mab.tgis.co.uk

LET US STEAM THROUGH YOUR IRONING

Premier Klean

Lydiard Ironing

Services

Professional carpet Et upholstery cleaning

Free collection & delivery, reliable & friendly Regular or ad-hoc service • 24 hour turnaround

Freephone: 0800 2800544

Hangers available

Tel: 01793 725061

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

SE?FjsF{k

Holder of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

Tra

n

Award Winning

Quality Fish & Chips

NSBC

HAMESDOWNDBIVE'

THREE GOOD REASONS TO USE OUR GREAT MONEY OFF VOUCHER 1 If you've not used us for a

while -

2 If you've never used us before

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School \

f Ab

Comm tty tip -P rlmary

Welcome back

.

• t Ae^e, MeeOc

School

. Village !`' Cenbe

- Try us

3 If you used this voucher last time - HERE'S ANOTHER

REMIND YOURSELF WHAT NATURAL UNPROCESSED FOOD IS LIKE

West Swindon & the

Lydiards churches

Chips from real potatoes and top quality fish from the sea - all with fewer calories than chicken tikka masala, sweet & sour pork* and more nutritious and satisfying than burger and fries.

We now have a seating area so you can enjoy your fish & chips at a table with a hot cup of tea or coffee

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

" Source: Carlson Bengston Consultants Ltd — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

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2

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£1 off all orders over £3 with this voucher

West Swindon District Centre. Tel: 870 455

For God loved the world

so much that He gave His only Son. John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 parmershipoffice@btopenworld. con

At Church this Christmas All Saints, Lydiard Millicent (The church in the village) Sunday 10th 10.30am All-age Christingle Sunday 17th 6.30pm Candle-lit Carol Service Christmas Eve 5pm Family Christmas Eve Service Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 8am Book of Common Prayer. Communion Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day All-Age Service.

St. Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze (The church in the park) Sunday 17th 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Tuesday 19th 7.30pm Carols in Hook Village Hall 4pm Christmas Eve Family Crib Service Christmas Eve 11pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 1 Oam Christmas Day Family Service Holy Trinity Church. Shaw Village Centre Sunday 17th 10.30am Family Nativity Service Sunday 17th Carols by Candlelight 6.30pm Christmas Eve 10.30am Family Crib Service Christmas Eve 11 pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service Toothill Church. Toothill Village Centre Sunday 10th 3pm Christingle Service Friday 15th 7.30pm Wootton Bassett Brass Band, Christmas Music Sunday 17th 10.45am Nativity Musical Christmas Eve 10.45am Carol Service Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 10.45am Christmas Family Service.

Westlea Church (meeting in Westlea School) Sunday 10th 10am Family Service with Nativity Sunday 17th 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Christmas Eve Family Crib Service 3pm 1 Oam Christmas Day Christmas Day Family Service Emmanuel URC, High St. Haydon Wick Sunday 17th 10am Family Christmas Celebration: refreshments Sunday 17th 6pm Candlelit Carol Service; refreshments 1 Oam Christmas Eve Family Worship; refreshments Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 1Oam Christmas Day Family Worship Sunday 31st 10am Christmas Praise Freshbrook Evangelical Church Sunday 17th 10am Family Carol Service Sunday 17th 6.30pm Carol Service (and Choir) 7pm Monday 18th Musical Production 'Apostle' (performed by the choir and young people of the church) 1 Oam Christmas Eve Morning Worship 1 Oam Christmas Day Christmas Celebration

St Peter's Catholic Church. Carronbridge Road, Eastleaze Christmas Eve 6pm Mass for the children Christmas Eve Midnight Sung Midnight Mass Christmas Day 1 Oam Mass with carols St Andrews. Blunsdon Monday 3rd 6.30pm Monday 10th 3pm Monday 17th 4pm Christmas Eve 11.30pm 1 Oam Chrismas Day

Service of Light Nativity Service Nine Lessons and Carols Midnight Mass Family Christmas Communion

St Francis Worship Centre.

Sunday 2nd 2-4pm Christmas Eve 4pm Sunday 21 Jan. 4 pm

Taw Hill Christmas fun - with activities, stalls Crib Service Christingle Service

North Swindon Baptist Church Sunday 17th 5.30pm Carol Service Christmas Eve 10.30am Family Service Christmas Eve 5.30pm Christmas Eve Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Service The Church of Christ the Servant. Abbey Meads Sunday 3rd 10.30am Unwrapping Christmas Sunday 10th 10.30am Infant Baptism/communion.

4pm Sunday 10th Christingle. Bring an Orange.

Sunday 17th 10.30am Christmas production by the junior church Thursday 21st 7pm Believer's Baptism. The reason forJesus' coming Christmas Eve 10.30am Communion.

4pm Christmas Eve Carols and Crafts for Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve 11.15pm Communion and reflection.

Christmas Day 1 Oam Family Service. Show and tell your presents.

Sunday 31st 10.30am Communion. Wrapping up and moving on St. John's, Haydon Wick (next to Morrisons) Christingle Sunday 3rd 4.30pm Sunday 17th 11am Carols for all Ages.

Seven Lessons and Carols Sunday 17th 6.30pm 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Eve 1 Oam Christmas Day Carols on Christmas Day Swindon Family Church, The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea Sunday 17th 10.30am All Age Christmas Family Service Christmas Eve Family Carol Service 3.30pm

o^Evange,,c , Worsley Road `21

SO

www.freshbook.org building with people

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

St. John's Haydon Wick

Sunday services are at I Oam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: the gift of God is Eternal Life" (Romans 6 r23)

newfro

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

yn.

Sunday Services 9am Traditional communion service 11am Eventful, contemporary worship with children's groups meeting

â&#x20AC;˘II

Alpha

Sundays 10,30am Family friendly worship and Bible teaching The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea

ITel: 01 793 5261 30

www.swindonfamilychurch.org.uk

FRIDAY 22 DECEMBER

Classical Christmas Sessio 10.00am - 12.00pm Traditional Christmas songs and a chanc to have a group lesson with one of our coat es (Free to the first 40 people to register after 9.45am on the day - ten per lesson) Lesson times: 10.15-10.30am, 10.30-1 .45am, 10.45-11.00am, 11.00-11.15am

Family Christmas Party 1.30pm - 3.30pm Lots of fun, games and prizes. Playing traditional Christmas songs and chart music. There s a chance to meet some of the players from the Swindon Wildcats ice hockey team.

Santa's Christmas Party 4.30pm - 6.30pm A family session with Christmas songs. There is a chance to meet the man himself.

THURSDAY 28 & FRIDAY 29 DECEMBER

Classical Christmas Session 10.00am - 12.00pm Classical Christmas session with traditional songs, and FREE group lessons with one of our coaches. (First 20 to register after 9.45am on the day - ten per lesson).

Lesson times: 10.15-10.30am, 10.30-10.45am

Family Christmas Session THURSDAY 1.30pm - 3.30pm Traditional Christmas songs and chart music.

Family Christmas Session FRIDAY 1.30pm - 3.30pm and 4.30pm - 6.30pm Traditional Christmas songs and chart music.

Sub Zero Christmas Party 8.30pm - 10.30pm A Sub Zero night with a twist! Skate awa to a night full of funky tunes and lighting effects.

SATURDAY 30 DECEMBER

SATURDAY 23 DECEMBER

Junior New Years Eve Party

Family Christmas Session 10.00am - 12.00pm & 2.45pm - 4.45p Traditional Christmas songs and chart music.

Christmas Disco 8.30pm - 10.30pm Skate away to a night full of chart music.

WEDNESDAY 27 DECEMBER

10.00am - 12.00pm Fun, games and lots of on the spot prizes, playing past and present chart music.

Family New Years Eve Party 2.45pm - 4.45pm Fun, games and lots of on the spot prizes, playing past and present chart music.

Ice Hockey Match 5.45pm Wildcats Charity Challenge.

Classical Christmas Session 10.00am - 12.00pm Classical Christmas session with traditional songs, and FREE group lessons with one of our coaches. (First 20 to register after 9.45am on the day - ten per lesson).

Lesson times: 10.15-10.30am, 10.30-1 .45am

Centre closed: December 24th, 25th, 26th, 31 st and January I st

Family Christmas Session 1.30pm - 3.30pm Traditional Christmas songs and chart m sic.

SwinDon Whitehill Way,Westlea, Swindon,Wilts SN5 7DL

BOROUGH COUDCIL