Issuu

THE

No. 143

•

February 1994

•

TOOTHILL CHINESE KITCHEN

Circulation 15,500

Fish & Chips and Chinese Food Takeaway

HOME DELIVERY

Ito [Li2V~7 U@\ West Swindon 5pm 10pm

CW AZIt4E Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick & Woodhall Park and the swindon wide what's on guide

(Delivery charge from Cl)

Toothill Village Centre

Tel: 487055

Boredom and babies no connection says researcher -

Evening Advertiser story 'misleading' A university researcher and a local community worker have reacted strongly to a Swindon Evening Ad-

vertiser story which they believe distorts their work and puts at risk their contacts in the community. The story which appeared on the 5 January front page alleged that Cambridge University research student Hazel Christie had discovered that women in West Swindon are becoming pregnant because they are bored. Thamesdown Council community worker Pam Pixton, who has lived in West Swindon for nearly 14 years, is quoted as saying that women can get so desperate and lonely that getting pregnant can seem the only solution. Both Hazel and Pam reject the Evening Advertiser story as being 'crude and misleading' and want to set the record straight through The Link magazine. They are joined by the coordinator of the West Swindon Family and Community Project Mark Thomas, also reported in the same article. Hazel was featured in the January Link magazine as carrying out research work into how couples cope when they fall into mortgage arrears or find themselves in a negative equity situation. In particular she is trying to discover the contri-

Upset. Hazel Christie and Pam Pixton

bution women make to the household budget. Hazel said she presumed the Evening Advertiser had contacted her after seeing the article in The Link. "I am very embarrassed that the Evening Advertiser should paraphrase my early findings and draw such crude conclusions under a sensational headline. There is still another fifteen months of research to be done. This report makes me sound an arrogant and irresponsible outsider commenting on the difficulties couples are having."

"There is no research evidence that women get pregnant because they are bored." She said that West Swindon is an interesting study area because of the concentration of couples who bought houses duringthe 1980s price boom. The price collapse over the last few years has left many households with mortgages worth more than their homes. Unemployment and children put a big strain on finances which can lead to defaulting on mortgage payments.

"Some of the women I have interviewed freely admit they feel isolated. It's a feature of new housing developments across the country. My comments to the Evening Advertiser tried to show how constructive and resourceful women are in dealing with financial difficulties," said Hazel. Pam Pixton believes her comments had been selected to satisfy the Evening Advertiser's story and headline.

We bring the International Year of the Family down to a community level

International Family Group appeals for more Bosnia food UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE FAMILY 1994

The Link magazine and Thamesdown Relate have joined together to celebrate the family and its contribution to community life. Join us in sa ying 'A Little Thank You' to people who have helped your family. Turn to page 3.

(continued on page 3)

The Swindon International Family Group is collecting for another convoy on 1 April. Details of how you can help on page 3.

Another 500 houses We discovered our new expanded distribution area of Hayden Wick and Woodhall Park is 500 homes larger than we thought. Luckily we overprinted and everybody received The Link last month. Our total distribution is now 15,500.

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Building a more family friendly society 1994 has been designated International Year of the Family by the United Nations, aiming to stimulate international, national and local awareness of the issues facing families in the nineties. Nearly 100 countries are involved.

Here, the UK Association for InThe overall UK theme for the year ternational Year of the Family, is 'Family Resources and Responsichaired by Joanna Foster, president bilities in a changing world' and the of Relate, is coordinating the year. three interrelated issues are: People from voluntary organisa• families and work tions, as well as business and educa• families, poverty and resources tion are involved. • families and relationships

These recognise the challenges facing families today, indudingemployment, unemployment, money, leisure, education, inequality and the changing roles of women and men, health, housing, transport, safety and the benefits system among many.

Has your family been helped? UNITED NOTIONS INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE FAMILY 1994

By Thamesdown Relate Coordinator Jane Lewis As part of its involvement in International Year of the Family, Thamesdown Relate has teamed up with The Link magazine to give families a chance to 'say a little thank you',

We would like to give Link readers the opportunity to say how their family has been helped or supported by someone special over the past year. YOU can do this by nominating somebody from your local community. You may wish to thank someone for an unexpected act of kindness, or someone whom you may have to rely on to help and support your family on a longer term basis. There may be someone in your community whom you admire for the work they do in support of family life.

YOU may be a single parent, or someone who is caring for a sick or disabled partner, or alternatively a parent of teenagers, or family where mum and dad work alternate shifts and so have to rely on childcare. Maybe your family consists of a working mum and dad is involved in full time child care. We would be interested to hear how you get your support.

THAT person could be a caring professional, say, a doctor, district nurse or teacher, or someone from a voluntary group or charity.

SIMPLY write us a note saying who you wish to nominate and explain how they have helped your family.

ALTERNATIVELY you may wish to nominate

EACH month Relate will choose someone to be featured in The Link and a thank you gift will be presented courtesy ofAsda and West End Flowers of Rodbourne.

someone from your own family, perhaps a grandparent, aunt/uncle, brother/sister or cousin. MAYBE a neighbour or friend has been really helpful to your family or someone from a local business who might have gone out of their way to help.

Send your nominations to: 'Say a Little Thank You,' Thamesdown Relate 79 Eastcott Hill, Swindon SN1 3JF

RELATE

Iii 1ik M%t' Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (0793) 872282

Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Advertising Sales:

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. "The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Contents Toothill 4 5 Freshbrook & Grange Park Apple Macintosh design, Westlea 6 layout and lasersetting Shaw 7 Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Haydon Wick 8 Published monthly. 10 At Your Library 11-13 Swindon Wide What's On Copy date for March Recreation 14 edition: 14 February 22 Letters to The Link The March edition will be Link small ads 22 23 Local Lives published on 25 February. The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Tel: (0793) 872282

Bosnia appeal The International Family Group is collecting desperately needed food to send to Bosnian refugee camps. The next convoy is scheduled for 1 April. If you can help, call Shala Davapanah on 872853. • Letter of thanks from the refugees camp on page 22.

Jane Lewis of Thamesdown Relate

The Year aims to be a catalyst for building a more family friendly society, to celebrate family life in all its variety and complexity, and to take a serious look at the support and encouragement today's families need. Relate sees the Year as a chance to build on its experience of working with over 70,000 families a year nationally. Locally, Thamesdown Relate is joining forces with The Link magazine to 'say a little thank you'. Jane Lewis, Centre manager of ThamesdownRelate says, "We want to give readers the chance to nominate a person who has been supportive to their family. By asking people to describe the help they have received, we should be able to get a clearer picture of the kinds of support families need." Each month, Relate will choose someone to be featured in The Link and a thank you gift will be presented, with the kind assistance of Asda and West End Flowers. We hope you will feel able to join inand 'say a little thankyou'to somebody who has helped your family.

Evening Advertiser corrected - continued from front page "I am upset that a few comments from a twenty minutes interview have been blown up out of all proportion. In fact, unless a woman has friends to introduce her to community groups, a young baby can create isolation. There are around 50 under 5s groups and groups for women in West Swindon to join in." Pam thought couples were more likely to delay having children if they were in mortgage arrears so that they did not add to their financial difficulties.

Mark Thomas said the idea for West Swindon Family Project first came about in 1979 because Thamesdown Borough Counciland Wiltshire Social Services recognised the need to support isolated families as the town expanded in the west. "1 was sorry to have been quoted within the story. It is very disappointing that Hazel Christie's work had to be distorted in this way. Her research is a positive attempt to find out how families cope with mortgage problems."

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Juniors need help Toothill junior youth club is back in business and is so popular that the organisers need more help. After a break since November, whilst more helpers were recruited, over thirty excited and energetic 6 to 12 year olds turned up at the first session on 13 January. There is snooker, craft activities,

board games and indoor group activites for the youngsters and sports outside duringbetter weather. The club meets between 6pm and 8pm on Thursday at Toothill Farm Centre on Bodiam Drive. If you would like to join the rota of volunteers already involved, give Pam Pixton a call at the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234.

Good time celebrations at Tootleabrook W.I. June Bradley reports

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BIRTHDAY SURPRISES UNWRAPPED SOON! Watch out for exciting details

For our December meeting we had a party with a wartime theme for which many members dressed in the styles of the times. It's amazing what people have tucked away. There were ladies in Air Force uniform, the Land Army, evacuees and an army of munitions workers wearing flowery overalls, turbans and the inevitable dangling cigarette. Supper was fish and chips followed by bread and butter pudding. The fish and chips were delivered by two ARP wardens wearing tin hats and armbands complaining about our faulty blackouts. There

was wartime music and dancing, three of our ladies dressed in ENSA uniforms and entertained us with songand dance routines of the 1940's We celebrated our 11th birthday in January with a faith supper with members taking over the business for the evening while the committee provided the entertainment. We meet on the third Wednesday ofeachmonthat 7.30pmintheCommunity Room at Toothill School. If you would like to know more about the WI ring June Bradley on 495520 or just come along to one of our meetings. You will be made very welcome.

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Anybody interested in celebrating 10 years? A passionate appeal for people to get involved in celebrating Freshbrook CommunityCentre'sfirst ten years is being made by committee member Viv Dipper. Her appeal in last month's Link

fellon deaf ears and nobody turned up at the advertised meeting. 11 June has been set for an event. What goes on is up to you! If you can offer your energy and time, call Maureen Barker on 871017.

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Lunch available to all OAPs across west Lunch is being served again on Fridays to pensioners at Freshbrook Community Centre after a two year break. And this time retired and disabled people from any part of West Swindon can join in. A lack of volunteers to run the weekly club forced its closure, but after an appeal in The Link last September a new group has come together. This time lunch is being prepared by catering staff at Oliver Tomkins School to be served by the volunteer helpers, who also prepare the room and do the washing up.

Community worker Pam Pixton said organising the club was much easier now that the volunteers did not have to cook the meals. "Anyone over 60 can come along, so can anybody under 60 who is housebound - but the lunches have to be booked first. There is tea and coffee available from I 1.3Oam and lunch is served at midday." West Swindon Lions have donated £100 to pay for the hire of the community transport minibus to bring people with disabilities to the club. TheFreshbrookVilageGroup

Enjoying lunch, front left to right, Marjorie and John Towill, Charles Randall, Thomas Brewis, Des Farley, with volunteer helpers at rear, Mollie Syms, Alan Thinthorpe, Bill and Sheila MacKay

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am- 1pm 215pm -6pm

have helped with concessionary rent for the use of the community centre. The club restarted on 14 January with seventeen members. There is space for 30 people. Tobooka lunch and to arrange transport, call Maureen Barker on 871017 during office hours.

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Fun time for youngsters Children aged 6 to 14 years have a Freshbrook School next door. The club needs some more volungreat time at Faces, Freshbrook's junior club which meets on a Satur- teer helpers to organise and take day morning in the community cen- part in the fun. If you can help,dmp in on a Saturday morning between tre during term time. There are indoor activities and lOam and midday and find out board games, and youngsters use what's involved from Kim and the playground and field at Allyson Cardis. Youngsters at Faces Saturday Club

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Family Literacy promoted from school A novel idea to help family literacy developed by Westlea School headteacher Neil Griffiths has won a £3,500 grant from the Adult Literacy Basic Skills Unit, writes Sheila Mitchell. The idea is that families will be able to borrow Story Sacks containing books, toys, games and a work sheet from which the whole family will be able to derive pleasure. Ten volunteer mums are currently involved in the project which involves making toys and games to complement the books which are central to'ñte individual theme of each of thtoiy Sacks. One hu1dred sacks are planned and more helpers are urgently required to make them. No particular skills are required and offers of help from people of all ages from all over the area will be welcomed. Neil Griffiths said the grant to the school comes from a U50,000 Government fund to promote literacy in the family. "The idea is to bring books alive in the family. By providing lots of ideas around a book, like a doll to be dressed, or a simple game, parents will be encouraged to read and play with their children, promoting literacy skills." Debs Osorio, Family Literacy

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Bingo at Westlea School Friday 11 February Cash prizes, raffle, refreshments Admission 20p Eyes down 8pm

Examining the Old MacDonald Story Sack with Neil Griffiths are Emma Davies and Nathan Taylor Project ManagerfromSwindonCollege is working with Westlea and will be developing the project in other primary schools. If you can help with makingStory Sacks, call Westlea School on 870469. • Nature route: The grand opening of the Westlea School pathway will be taking place at lOam on Monday 7 February. School children will be on hand to guide visitors around the path in the school grounds.

Westlea School Craft & Charity Market Saturday 26 February 10am - 1 p .Admission 30p

Stalls £5. All stalls must be pre-booked by telephoning 870469 Tables will be provided

Bored at home with or without a baby? Whether you're at home on your own, or with a young child, you don't have to be bored at home writes Kerrie Stone. Women Out West enjoyed a quilling demonstration from Suzie Woolaston on 21 January, and we then had a go at creating our own designs. If you are free on a Friday morning, why not come along to Women Out West and make some new friends? We welcome all women and we provide a creche for under 5s in an adjacent room, enabling us to relax and enjoy various speakers, demonstrations and coffee mornings without disruptions! We meet in the Link Centre Community Suite from 930am -Il .30am during term time. A small charge is made to cover refreshments. Our next speaker is booked for 4 February when an organiser from Swindon Women's Refuge will be

Suzie Wooieston, right, shows quilling technique to Eleanor Snowden, middle, and Kerrie Stone talking about domestic violence and the role of the refuge. For more details, call Kerrie on 875820.

SHAW

Fifty year scheme to turn tip into park well underway There used to be a joke that Swindon must be one of the few towns with a sewage works and a refuse tip in its midst. Perhaps there still is! Although the sewage works at Barnfield Road will remain a feature, Shaw tip is now being turned into a country park on the edge of WestSwindon as development work in North Swindon gathers pace. Since October truck loads of spoil excavated from the roads and sewers being installed north of Haydon Wick have been arriving daily at Shaw tip. By the end of February over a quarter of million tons will have been moved in the first phase of the project to eventually cover the 112 acre tip in readiness for tree and shrub planting. Although a small part of the tip is still being used, most of the site was used from 1974 until 1986 when it closed to allow land settlement. In charge of turning the tip into a park is Matthew Hawkins from Thamesdown Council's Community Forest team said major engineering work has to be completed before tree plantingtakes place. The site has been capped with a metre of clay as part of the tip restoration scheme. The spoil from the northern sector will form a three metre thick layer so that there will be no chance for tree roots to penetrate

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Matthew Hawkins, in at the beginning of a long term project

through to the rubbish below. Because of the weight from the spoil, a permanent pipe system is being installed into the rubbish layer to allow gas and sludge to be drained off and treated." As part of the first phase of development, earth mounds around the edge of the site are being shaped to mask the site from houses in Shaw and Sparcells. Over the next ten years some one and a half million tons of spoil will be moved from the northern development to the country park site. The Council has made a deal with the house builders which will pay for the park. "The developers need somewhere to tip the spoil from construction work and the Council is charging for the use of the site," said Matthew. "The income is being ploughed back into turning derelict land to good use. The tip will become a major green element in the River Ray Country Park stretching from Mouldon Hill by Woodhall Park in the north right round to Coate Water in the east, with Lyd lard Park linked in via Shaw Ridge. "We hope to start planting by the

Wednesday get togethers Wedresday is a good day for meeting others in Shaw. Children are welcome at a coffee morning every fortnight between 10.30am and midday in Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. It's organised by the West Swindon Family Project and takes place at the same time as the Well Baby Clinic. The next dates are: 2 and 16 February, 2 and 16 March. Shaw Friends & Neighbours welcomes older people for tea and a chat on Wednesday 2pm to 3.30pm in Shaw Community Centre, next to the doctor. You don't have to be new to the area. Everyone is welcome to attend.

end of 1994 and will see some woodland areas quite mature in five to ten years. But it'll take about 50 years before the whole site is completed." He said that extensive woodland planting of mixed indigenous trees is planned to encourage wildlife to take over. Features such as a large events space, footpaths and cycle ways, and a major play area were being considered. The proposals are being left vague deliberately so that public comment can be made at a meeting planned for April when a report of progress since the first public meeting last Spring will be made.

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Pupils at Hreod Parkway School now have a brand new food technology suite, opened in January. Out went the twenty-five year old Home Economics rooms to make way for a complete remodelling of the facilities for the future. Two kitchens, each divided into small kitchenettes, have been created with built-in cupboards, microwaves,ovens,and dishwashers, plus electric and gas hobs. There is a lecture room and a carpetted study room which can be turned into adiningarea wherepupil Food technology teacher Ruth Moore prepared meals can be served. oversees, rear from left, Claire Dodd, Teacher Ruth Moore said the new Martin Alley, Katherine Ross, front, suite emphasised the social aspects Steven Richards, Katheryn Fuller of food and its presentation as well as food from a preparation and Musical inspirations health point of view. Members of the Haydon Wick writers group will be looking into the inspiration that music can give the wordsmith at their monthly meeting on 17 February, 7.30pm, in the Haydon Centre. The writers welcome newcomers who want to share their ideas and pickupnewones. CallSusanMayer on 722130 for further details. The anthology advertised last month is on sale in the Link library.

Grand Auction Friday 25 February, 7pm Greenmeadow School Donations very welcome. Tel: 521141 Old Spectacles wanted Greenmeadow School is collecting old pairs of specsto be senttoThird World Countries. Please deliver to school.

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Adam Zaple writes:

In last month's Link magazine we told you about the many facilities the Haydon Centre has to offer. Well, we also do some smashing activities for children - namely The Sly Fox camps for children 5-12 years old. We pack every Saturday morning with fun and adventure from 930am till noon. There are loads and loads of activities which range from games and sports to art and drama. There are also a lot of exciting special activities, like roller skating. During most school holidays a Sly Fox holiday camp runs from

lOam to 3pm. Our next camp is 1418 February and costs £5 per day, £1.50 with a Gold Card. If you are interested please book in advance, as there are limited spaces available. And parents, don't worry about sending your child along as they will be guided by an experienced team, with qualified instructors for any specialist activities such as trampolining. So come along to enjoy yourself and learn new games and skills. See you soon at the Haydon Centre. Telephone 706666 for further details.

Bouncing around at the Sly Fox camp

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— _*

The Link Magazine. February 1994 9

Burglaries and muggings Sgt. Terry Cuss from Swindon Police appeals for help This last month has thrown up some crime patterns that are worthy of your attention. Looking to The Link magazine's new distribution area, since 3 January there have been 4 houses burgled in Greenmeadow and these appear to be the work of the same person or persons. The offences are being committed between late afternoon and late evening. Patio doors had been forced to gain entry in three of the houses, and in the other a small pane next to the front door latch was smashed. The main items stolen are electrical goods. These are obviously conspicuous to carry away or place in a vehicle. Have you seen these people? Keep your eyes open and as I've said before, if anything doesn't look right, phone us. Innocent people will not mind being checked,

and don't think that you will be wastingourtime. Over in the West, house burglaries have again been going oninToothilland Freshbrook,with 10 coming in over the last month. These seem to be in two distinct patterns, some during the day and as early as6.30amand others during the late afternoon and evening. In 4 of these offences, the burglars have been disturbed by householders. From the descriptions we have there may be two separate teams operating, one in the 15 to 17 year age group, one of whom has a pony tail,and the othergroupaged around 24 to 26. If you see, or have seen them callus on Swindon528 111.

A message to young people - help us catch these thugs Over the last few months we've talked about West Swindon youngsters at some length, but there is a good reason to return to it now. One of the complaints from youngsters themselves is about being labelled as troublemakers when most of them do nothing wrong. I can understand that, but one incident last month justgoes to show how a mindless few can help to give all West Swindon youngsters a bad name. Just after 1130pm on Tuesday 11 January, a 54 year old taxi driver went to Freshbmok Centre to collect a fare. He was approached by two youths who attacked him and attempted to steal his cash. It was only when he managed to use his radio that these two ran off. It was an ugly incident that left the driver shocked and bleeding around his face. There are those of you who know who these two 'heroes' are. I'm pretty sure that they are the type

only too willing to brag about the incident. If I were a youngster in Freshbrook I would be angry that the likes of these two were giving me a bad name. If you know who they are, it only takes one call. After all, the next person they try it on could be your mother, father or grandparent. The two are described as: 1. Male, white and around 5'11" tall, of medium build and wearing a red top with a hood up, with a grey scarf around his face. 2. Male, white 57' tall, around 18 dr 19 years old with a pale thin face. He was clean shaven and wore a black woolly type hat, with a white ring in the middle of it. If you can help, please phone. You don't have to leave your name if you don't want to. For this or any other matter that I can help with, either contact me through The Link or direct at the Police Station on 528111.

AK -IRS 1st Choice for Vauxhall

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1992 K CITROEN AX11 Echo, 3 door, hatchback, morello red, one private owner, 7,000m, 5 speed gearbox, tinted glass, sunroof, radio/cassette Was £6596 offered at £5995

SALOONS 1992 J CAVALIER 2.0 GSI 16 V,4 door, glacier white, 1 owner, 33,000mE1 0995 1991 H CAVALIER 1.6 L, 4 door, Red, 1 owner, 40,000m £5995 1991 H NOVA 1.2 Merit, 4 door, Mexico red, 1 owner, 34,000 £4795 1991 H CAVALIER 1.8i CL, 4 door Metalic red, 1 owner, 30,000m £7995 1991 H BELMONT 1.6 L, 4 door, Midnight blue, 1 owner, 25,000m £6395 1990 H ASTRA Belmont 1.4 Merit, 4 dr, glacier white, 1 owner, 1 9,000m POA 1990 H ASTRA Belmont 1.8 CDi, 4 dr, met red, 2 owners, 19,000m PASE6995 1990 H NOVA 1.2 Merit, 4 door, saloon, Nordic blue, 1 owner, 15,000m £4995 1990 H ASTRA Belmont 1.4 LX, 4 door, Mexico red, 1 owner, 34,000m £5495 1990 G PROTON 1.5 SE, 4 door, metallic blue, 2 owners, 33,000m £3995 1987 D CAVALIER 1.3 L 4 door, nordic blue £2995 1986 C CAVALIER 1.6 L, 4 door, white, 2 owners, 55,000m £2695 1984 B NOVA 1.0 L, 2 door, 63,000m, 3 owners POA 1988 FBELMONT1.6 L4door, Nordic blue £3995 1967 F JAGUAR 420, green, 3 owners POA

HATCHBACKS 1989 F PEUGEOT 205 1.4 XS, 3 door, hatchback with GTi interior trim, 5 speed gearbox, radio/cassette, sliding sunroof, 31,000m, Group 8 insurance, offered at £4695 1992 K CAVALIER 2.0 GLSi, 5 door, hatch, diamond black, 21,000m £9995 NEW ASTRA 1.6i Ethos (E Drive), 5 door, hatch, flame red £10700 1993 K CAVALIER 1.6 LSI, 5 door, glacier white, demo Was £10995 £10695 1993 K CORSA 1.2 LS, 5 door, satin red, tilt/slide sunroof £7995 1993 K CORSA 1.2i GLS. 5 door, satin red, 1 owner, 4,500m £7995 1993 K NOVA 1.2 Flair, 3 door, glacier white, I owner, 33,000 miles £6995 1992 K CAVALIER 1.7 CL Turbo Diesel, 5 door, glacier white, 29,000m £9995 1992 K CITREON AX 11 Echo, 3 door, purple, 1 owner, 7000m £6595 1992 K NOVA 1.2 Expression, 3 door, flame red £5795 1992 J CALIBRA 2.016 V Coupe, 3 dr, met blue, leather trim Was £1 4,995 £1 3995 1992 .3 CALIBRA 2.0 8V Coupe, 3 door, flame red, 12,800m £11995 1992.3 CAVALIER 1.6 L, 5 door, Spectral blue met, 18,000m Was £7995E7695 1992.3 NEW SHAPE ASTRA 1.4 LSi 82(ps), 5 dr, mistral grey, 23,000m £7995 1992.3 ASTRA 1.4 Si, 5 door, diamond black, 1 owner, 13,000m £8495 1992 J NOVA 1.5 Diesel, 5 door, metallic silver, 1 private owner, FSH, 25,000m £6595 1991 J NOVA 1.2 Merit, 5 door hatch, flame red, 1 owner, 26000m £5695 1991 H ASTRA 2.0 GTE, 3 door, glacier white, 1 owner,1 7,000m FSH £6995 1991 H ASTRA 1.6 L, 5 door, nordic blue, 37,000m Was £6495 £6695 1991 H ASTRA 1.4 L, 3 door, glacier white, 1 owner, 36000m £5495 1991 H ASTRA 1.4 Merit, 5 dr, silver, 2 owners, 29,000m, 5 sp, rad/cass £4995 1990 H FIESTA 1.1 LX, 3 door, maroon,m 24000m £4995 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 L, 5 door, silver metallic. 1 owner, 40,000m £5595 1990 H NOVA 1.2 Lux, 3 door, flame red, 2 owners, 28,000m £4795 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 SX, 3 door, metallic blue, 1 owner £5495 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 Starmist Auto, 5 dr, 1 local private owner, 9000m POA 1990 H NOVA 1.4 L 3 door, metallic silver, 1 owner, 37000m £4995 1990 C FIESTA 1.1 Ghia, 34,000m, blue £4695 1990 G ASTRA 1.6 CL, 5 door, hatch, neptune blue, 12,000m £5995 1990 C NOVA 1.2 L, 5 door, carmine red, 25,000m, alloy wheels £4995 1990 C NOVA 1.4 L. 5 door, glacier white, 1 owner, 23,000m, £4995 1990 G CAVALIER 2.0 SRi, 5 door, glacier white, 44000m £6995 1989 F CAVALIER 2.OSRi, 5 door, metalic red, 42000m Was £6695 £5995 1989 F PEUGOT 205 XS, 3 door, red, 31000m £4695 1989 F NOVA 1.2 Merit, 3 door, platinum, 1 owner, 37,000m £3995 1989 F NOVA 1.2 Merit, 5 door, white, 2 owners, 37,000m £3495 1988 FASTRA 1.3 L, 5 door, crystal green £3995 1988 F MAESTRO 1.6 L 5 door, red, 2 owners, 46,000m £2995 1986 C NOVA 1.2 Merit 3 door, silver, 2 owners £2995

ESTATES 1993 K BMW 316i Lux Touring, brilliant red, 1 owner, 6,000m £13995 1993 K ASTRA 1.4 Club 82PS Limited Edition Estate, 5 door, glacier white, demonstrator vehicle Was £1 0995E1 0595 1992 J CARLTON 2.0 CDi, 5 door, diamond black, 23000m £12995 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 L, 5 door, carmine red, 1 owner £5995 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 L, 5 door, regency blue, 1 owner £5495

After hours sales enquiries: Tel: (0831) 170576

The Street, Moredon Swindon

Tel: 523457/8

VAUXHALL

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Planning a holiday? HANDMADE FIREPLACES We offer: A free design service Choice of brick or stone Traditional or Modern TV Shelves and Video Units Tel: (073 535291

Where are you going to spend those summer months? Your local library can helpyou decide on holiday locations and ensure you make the most of it once you get there. The West Swindon library is currently promoting holiday information by displaying the wide variety of material that is available for you to borrow. These include: Travel Guides: Fodor's, Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, AA, Insight,

Drop in before you visit the travel agent says David Reed

Baedeker, Michelin and Blue. Maps: Ordnance Survey covering the UK, plus road maps of Europe and North America. Language Courses: tapes and books, ranging fromone tape holiday packs to three-month courses. Travel tapes: a few titles giving a flavour of countries to visit. Videos held in other libraries can be reserved. 'Where to Stay' books: mainly UK

listings of hotels, farms, bed and breakfast, pubs, campsites, guesthouses, gites etc. Children's books and tapes: general introductions to languages and countries. History books: background details of countries Holiday Which?: reports from around the world So, to get the best out of your holiday use your library.

Adult fiction for February 8.e our display .t

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Andrew NeidermarilNew Virginia Andrews - Ruby. Innocent girl discovers the dark legacy of her family's tainted past. Lawrence Block - The Devil Knows you're Dead. Scudder tracks the killer of Glenn Holtzniann, a lawyer who may or may not have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. William Gill - Eyes of Jade. American woman marries into wealthy Argentina family and discovers a few skeletons in the cupboard. Marilyn French - Our Father. Four half sisters gather for the first time as their stroke victim father fights for his life. (Author of Woman's Room) Ralph Mclnemy- Desert Inner. What happens when former Las Vegas showgirl is jailed for the murder of her rich playboy husband? Christine Harrison - Airy cages. A middle-aged woman falls in love at first sight with a young Irish musician. (Author's first novel) Michelle Spring - Every Breath you Take. Laura Principal investigates murder of a friend but soon realises that the murderer's eye are on her. Edwina Currie - A Parliamentary Affair. Charts the progress of four ambitious Tory MPs from 1992 onwards as they find themselves embroiled in a hotbed of political and sexual intrigue.

Serving North Swindon

Moredon Library staff front from left, Alison Lingham, Jennifer Hayes, Vicky Fielding,JuneMobey. Rear, Sue Hatt, Pat Hartwood, Mary Eteson, Mark Wilkins

Moredon Library canbe found on Church Walk North, off Moredon Road, not far from the Rodboume Arms, writes area librarian Jennifer Hayes. We have nearly 15,000 books avail- nobody who could collect books on able on free loan, covering most in- your behalf from the library, we can terests, hobbies, and practical help, help. We run a books on wheels as well as items for all ages and service, aided by volunteers, to bring tastes: picture books for the very books to you at your home. If you young to large print for people who are interested please phone the lihave difficulty with ordinary print. brary and ask for details. There is a wide range of fiction for Exhibition facilities are available leisure and pleasure plus stories on at the library and we are always on tape and jigsaws. The entire stock of the lookout for groups or individuWest Swindon library all Wiltshirelibraries,includingvid- als with interesting hobbies or colperformance in December 1993: eos and CD's is available to you on lections to exhibit in ourdisplay cases. Items issued: 11,154 (adult titles) request for a smalifee. If you cannot The library is open at the follow5,877 (junior titles), 98 (music tapes) find what you want please do not ing times: Mon, Tues, Thur lOam The overall total: 17,159 (500 less hesitate to ask the staff for help. 8pm Fri 10am-5pm Sat I Oam-4pm. than December 1992) If you are housebound and have Closed Wednesday. Tel: 616273

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

Exploring relationships Corinne Glanville reviews two new films at the MGM

Advertisements Booklets Business Stationa Certificates Contracts Forms Invitations Invoices Labels Leaflets Manuals Mal Ishots Menus Newsletters Notices Overhead transparancies Posters Price Lists Prospectuses Reports Tickets Timetables

Graphic Design, Illustration. Photography and Copywriting

(0793) 872282

Mrs Doubtfire provides Robin Williams with another chance to showcase his brilliant comic gallery of characters, and he has just won a Golden Globe award for it.

This time he is Daniel Hillard, an on to his kids, Daniel becomes a out-of-work voice-over actor willing whole new man'. In fact he beto do anything to be with his three comes Mrs Doubtfire, the live in children. Unfortunately the things British nanny. his kids love about him - his wild In this guise he can see his chilsense of humour, his carefree view dren, but atthe same time he discovof life - are traits which prevent him ers his true self. from being the husband his wife ltpulled in the bucks in the US. No Miranda (Sally Field) needs him to doubt it'll do the same here. be. After fourteen years of marHeaven and Earth is the third of riage she has asked for a divorce ex-Vietnam veteran Oliver Stone's and has been granted temporary exploration of the war which America custody of the children. tries to forget. It opens in an idyllic Vietnamese rice farming village in the French dominated 19505 and follows the life of Le Ly (newcomer Hiep Thi Le) in a true story which sees her caught up in war, tortured as a spy, befriended by American marine (Tommy Lee Jones pictured below), and starting a new life in California. This film is an epic and heroic story of a woman of Vietnam, her family and a country when Heaven and Earth changed places.

N. PERKINS For all your UPVC requirements Windows Doors Soffits Fascias, etc. Also carpentry & joinery

Ring Nathan on 430279

CINEMAS SATURDAY MORNING MOVIES FOR KIDS

Robin Williams The idea of somebodytelling you that you can't see your kids, you can't be with them ... that's just not an option and sometimes you're forced to go to extremes - says Daniel Hillard. This is exactly what he does. With his inventive imagination, actor's flair and determination to go to any lengths necessary to hang

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5 February Groundhog Day a a

12 February Hocus Pocus Also coming up: 4 Feb. Wayne's World 2. Wayne and Garth aim to stage a monster rock concert Waynestock'. Way to go Wayne. 11 Feb. Free Willie. Young boy conspires to free killer whale 11 Feb. The Three Mustketeers. Kiefer Sutherland and Charlie Sheen get into French history. All for one... If you can: Read Schindler's Ark by Thomas Keneally in preparation for Steven Spielburg's 'Schindler's List.' It's an amazing book which sets the scene for Spielberg's new horror film portraying one German's effort to save Jews from the gas chambers which opens on 4 March.

19 February Cop and A Half

[

26 February Star Trek IV: Voyage Home Saturdays lOam Tickets £1.90 MGM Shaw Ridge West Swindon

a a

The Swindon Wide

Until 17 February Exhibition Marie Brett - Textile Treats. A textile feast of images from around the world, with an array of fabrics, wire, jewels and metal. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 High Street Wroughton Swindon Tel: (0793) 812588

1st Floor, Anglia House

115/118 Commercial Road Swindon Tel: (0793) 522688

John Wilding at Wroughton and Peter Winton or Helen Raynes at Commercial Road will be pleased to attend to all your Legal needs.

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

TyJ

CHOICE ___—' ANY LARGE pLa SPECIALITY 4Iut SE I OFF PIZZA

1. Please mention this voucher when you place this order 2. Hand in this voucher when you pay 3. Offer valid until 20/3/94 4. Only one voucher per order. Not to be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer. 5. No cash alternative. 6. Not available for Create Your Own .. Pizza.

COLLECT IT IN 20 MINUTES We bake every pizza freshly to order. Just give us a call and we guarantee that 20 4, , yours will be ready to collect a' U, within 20 minutes or we'll give you £1 off your order.

WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON

Monday 14th to Saturday 19th March

WHEN DID YOU LAST SEE

YOUR TROUSERS? A wicked and hilarious farce starring LINDA LUSARDI, ARTHUR BOSTROM (Officer Crabtree 'Allo 'Allo), ANNA KAREN (Olive On the Buses) and Hilary Minster (Gen. Von Klinkerhoffen 'Allo 'AIIo) The evening begins quietly enough with Howard and Penny asleep in bed when a burglar climbs through the window and proceeds to steal various items, including Howard's suit! Add to the mix a Danish au-pair, the Home Secretary, a randy constable and a singing telegram Gorilla and you are in for a riotous night of outrageous fun! Mon- Wed Eves £9.50 all seats. Thurs - Sat Eves £10.50 all seats. Sat Mat £6 all seats. Concs: Mon - 2 for the price of 1

Box Office (0793) 524481 Credit Card Line (0793) 694055

Made possible by Leisure Services

BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN

Thursday 10 February Comedy Hylda Baker She Knows You Know, a profile of Hylda Baker starring Jean Fergusson. Wyvern, 730pm. £6.50 Friday 11 February Comedy The New Crazy Gang, over two hours of good clean family entertainment. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £6.50

Tuesday 1 February & Wednesday 2 February Children Trestle Theatre Company and Quicksilver Theatre Saturday 12 February for Children present Little VictoMusic Midge Ure in Concert. ries by Shaun Prendergast. For Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50 children over six, this new play Workshop Textile Treats with about birth, death and the bit in Marie Brett. Make a textile icon between uses masks, puppetry, with wire, beads, cane, found live action, comedy, music and objects, collage, cut outs, paint illustration. Wyvern, Tuesday throwing and beaten metal. The lOam & 1.30pm, Wednesday Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 1 Oam lOam & 6.30pm. Adults £4, children £3.50. Special offer with -4pm. Tel: 614837. £15,13 The Magic Shoes, 16 - 19 Monday 14, Wednesday 16, February, contact Wyvern for Thursday 17, Friday 18 February details. Children Half term kids workshops - T shirt painting (Monday), wall Thursday 3 February Music Flying High with Kentwood hangings (Wednesday), multi meChoir, in aid of Thamesdown Area dia art work (Thursday), stained glass mirrors with paper and paints Well Woman Centre. (Friday). The Arts Centre, Devizes Wyvern, 730pm. £6 Road. Tel: 614837 for details Friday 4 February Wednesday 16 Music Bournemouth Symphony - Saturday 19 February Orchestra. Conductor: Yuri Children The Magic Shoes by Nona Simonov, soloist: Mikhail Shepphard. An adventure packed, Petukhov. Wyvern 7.30pm. £12.50, £10.50, Young Person £5 exciting show for young people of 5 years and over and family audiSaturday 5 February ences. Wyvern, 6.30pm, Friday and Music Jeff Hooper's A Swing Affair Saturday matinees, 2pm. Adults with The Freddy Staff All Star Big £5, children £4. Special offer with Band. Wyvern8pm. £10.50,9.50 Little Victories, 1 & 2 February, contact Wyvern for details. Saturday 5 February - Sunday 6 March Thursday 17-19 February Exhibition Decade 1900-1909 First Drama Deceptions by Paul in a series of ten that will show the Wheeler - an intriguing adult entire Swindon Collection during its psychological drama presented by 50th anniversary year. The Art Old Town Theatre Company. Arts Gallery, Bath Road. Tel: 493188 Centre, Devizes Road, 7.30pm. Wednesday 9 February Music The Barron Knights 30th Anniversary Tour. Wyvern, 730pm. £7.50

£4, £2.50, box office tel: 614837 Below: The Barron Knights: 30 years on the road - passing through Swindon

February overview Friday 18 February -Thursday 10 March Exhibition W Denton - Accent, an exhibition of photography, underwater photography and abstract images. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road. Tel: 614837

Saturday 26 February Music Gala Concert featuring Swindon Choral Society, Swindon Symphony Orchestra, New College Choir and Orchestra. Part of David Gow Commemorative Festival. Wyvern, 730pm. £8, £6

Tuesday 22 February Workshop Rubber Stamp Comedy Willie Rushton and Barry Making - learn to make your own Cryer are Two Old Farts in the Night'. rubber stamps with Michael Leigh. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9.50, £8.50 loam -4pm. Tel: 614837 Wednesday 23 February Dance The Kokuma Dance Theatre company presents The Awakening'. Wyvern, 730pm. £6.50, £5.50, under 18's half price. Friday 25 February Music Lunchtime Concert featuringTim Hugh (cello) and Paul Turner (piano), programme to include Schubert and Manuel de Falla. Part of David Gow Commemorative Festival. Wyvern, 12.30pm. £2.50

Lister Beauty

PETS AT HOME Worried about who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday?

. fiy9oanne L-IBc, f[L7Ls-1T

Pets At Home could be your answer.

Zahra Sugaring Waxing. Manicure Pedicure Facials • Make-ups Eyelash tints Aromatherapy

Pets-at-Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only

Telephone Sheila Mitchell forfurt her details on 873062

Phone (0793) 613484 (24 hr answerphone)

BARGAIN HOLIDAYS & FLIGHTS RETAIL AGENTS FOR ATOL HOLDERS

\NEW \Low

Music/Comedy Richard Digance. Wyvern, 730pm. £10.50 Richard Digance, right

COMPUTERISED FARES, OFFERING PRICES, WORLDWIDE DESTINATIONS

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First performance on 25 February from revived drama group A West Swindon drama group will be performing one public performance, three months after it was reformed. The Junction 16 drama group came together again after a break of several years. Twenty people responded to an article in the October Link magazine said group coordinator Ken Kimberfrom Nine Elms. A working group often have been working on the Noel Coward play Still Life' which, although not well known, was the basis for the film Brief Encounter. Junction 16 will be performing Still Life in the Greendown School drama studio on Friday 25 February. Tickets at £2 can be obtained in advance from Ken Kimber on 882378 or on the door.

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Tel: (0793) 641643 * 24 hour Breakdown & Recovery (Any Distance) A scene from Still Life with David Trelawny-Ross and Mandi Fuller

Auditions and rehearsals for the next production, 'The Sea' by Edward Bond, commence immediately on 4 March, 730pm in the Greendown drama studio. Newcomers more than welcome.

* Servicing & Repairs * Accident Repairs * All estimates given free * Collection & delivery service * All work guaranteed

Bargains galore at the Link Centre Charity Market Saturday 19 February 10am - Noon Stalls cost £3 by calling 871212 ext 234

* Bosch Petrol Injection Specialist * Engine Tuning Call now for LOCAL service

M.o.T. Tests Cars • Commercials • Diesels Motor Factors and Parts Shop Tel: 490666 Parts stockist for Bosch, Valeo, Bendix, AMK, Lucas

RECREATION

14 Throughout February Link Centre is offering a host of various special offers in the ice rink forall age groups and abilities to tie in with the 1994 Winter Olympics, writes Alison Bruce. 'Romance on Ice' is our special Valentine session on Sunday 13 February, 2.30pm 5pm. Heart shaped balloons, chocolates, flowers and other gifts will be given away throughout the session and past and present 'smoochie' records will keep all romantics happy. Family games and lots of fun will be available too, so bring your loved ones out fora special afternoon skating treat. Normal session prices will apply. -

en en en en o..J o.0 o.0 Lw U.0 G

SKATERS GET REAOI! '1-A-Skate' will be available through February (excluding school holidays). Skate for just £1 on the lunchtime and 2pm-3pm sessions. Skate hire is included in the price.

'Skate A Six in '94' means you too can join in the Torville and Dean mania this Winter Olympics by trying one of our 'Skate A Six' offers. Look out in the local paper for six special cut out adverts allowingyou various discounts and prizes here at the Link Centre. Most offers will run until 28 February '94 so don't delay, we'll be waiting to reward you.

Rink Olympics. Join in the Winter Olympics without going to Norway. Try our versions of curling, broom hockey, speed skating, sledge racing and slalom skating throughout the half-term week on the 2pm-4pm skating sessions. Keep Fitters Keep that Cost: E2.10 adults, £1.35 juniors plus resolution 65p skate hire. Link Centre is falling over backwards to help you keep your promise to get fit and healthy again for the spring and summer. Choose from 14 different fitness and lifestyle sessions, each offering Freshbrook Community Centre various levels of fitness from the On Monday 7pm 8pm All Levels complete beginner to more adFreshbrook School vanced. Steps, aerobics, aquambics Wednesday 7pm 8pm All Levels ABSOLUTE and circuit training are just some of Wednesday 8pm 9pm Absolute BEGINNERS the ways you can enjoy getting back Beginners into shape and staying that way. WECOME Wessex Squash Club, Dowling St. Swindon The Link Centre Health Suite has a Saturday 945am 1045am All Levels Wednesday range of cardio vascular equipment Beginners welcome at All Levels classes and weight stations in addition to 8pm 9pm Cost £3 per session (10 sessions £25) the more relaxing jacuzzi, sauna and Freshbrook sunbeds. Get ready for the summer Step out with Bernadette Cowap School sun with our special sunbed packTel: (0865) 326641 or Swindon 873497 to reserve a step age -6 for the price of 5. For an easier, more relaxed way of getting into shape, there is always LINK the Link Centre swimming pool with CENTRE special 'lane swimming' sessions; The 'super swim package' gives you 12 swims for the price of 10 and is available to all adult swimmers. For further details on any of these activities, please contact Main Reception. Tel: 871212 -I'm sure you'll agree, we really do give 'great value for money'.

STEP 1JEE00K -

~ C r7

invites you to

ROMANCE Sunday 13th February '94 2.30pm 5.00pm -

Cost: adults £2.95 Juniors £2.25 plus 65p skate hire

FREE

250 Lucky Ladies will receive a Foil Heart Shaped Balloon each

PLUS

Flowers, Chocolates and Gifts to give away past and present 'smoochie' records for all romantics and games and lots of family fun ...

Whitehill Way LINK Tel:

CENTRE

Westlea, Swindon (0793) 871212

Recreation Services I BOROUGH OF ry THAMESDOWN A Division of Leisure Services

The men in black, left, Kieth Dart and Mark Harrison

Two young footballers have taken their interest in the sport beyond playing. Kieth Dart from Shaw and Mark Harrison from Toothifi, both 15 years of age, recently qualified as referees and are now in demand to take charge of games. Both play for their school teams, Kieth is a pupil at Bradon Forest and Mark attends Greendown. Mark also plays for St Joseph's FC. The once a week course lasting eleven weeks run by the Wiltshire Football Association covered the laws of the game and how to handle different situations. It ended with an oral examand a practicalexercise using a Subbuteo board to explain refereeing decisions. Kieth said he wanted to get to learn more about the rules and as his Dad runs West Side football club he knewhe would have plenty of games to referee. Mark said that being a referee was a new experience. "You see the game from another point of view." The Swindon Referees Association runs courses regularly which anybody over 14 can take part in. West Swindon's Concorde girls Call Brian Basson on 480887 to find gymnastic club gets better all the out more. time. Forty-five girls took part in the Wiltshire Grades Competition in early December involving six other clubs across the county. Concorde members won six of the fifteen medals right across the four grade levels in the competition. "It was the club's best performance ever," said coach Alan Jones. Girls who would like to know more about joining the club should call Tracy Viveash on 881791.

Gym club gets best result

ON ICE

Youngsters take charge

Pictured right are the medal winners, rear left, Kelly Pulham and Samantha Dell. Front, Susan Shaw and Natasha Hayter, Helen Pile and Rhiannon Crowther are not pictured

The Link Magazine. February 1994

Campers get ready

Spring's on the way at Lydiard

Half term is just around the corner and the Link Centre is ready once again to keep all 5-12 year olds active and happy. All the usual structured activities will help keep you on your toes from 930am - 330pm each day. Camp starts on Monday 14 February and will run until Friday 18 February. Registration commences on Tuesday 1 February from 10am onwards, so come on over and book your space. Cost: £5.20 per day, Gold Card holders £1.50 per day

With the cold dark days at the moment it's good to see the first signs of Spring writes Lydiard Ranger Steve Upton The snowdrops at Lydiard are out, complimented by outdoor activities. and the daffodils are already visible. Further details are available from Our visitors will experience the Ruth Underhill on 493585. usual beautiful spectacle, although On Tuesday 15 February at 2pm we would ask everyone to resist the the Rangers are running an event temptation of picking the flowers. for children, called 'Legends of The open meeting for users of the Lydiard'. All our children's events Park, mentioned in last month'sLink are popular and this one looks like magazine was a great success. The being no exception. Children wifi be opportunity to discuss the manage- using their imagination to devise a ment of the Park was very useful for story about Lydiard to be portrayed all present and many positive points on a scroll. The scrolls can be exhibwere raised. Another such meeting ited in the Visitor Centre or taken home. It sounds like fun and everywill be held later in the year. The first Lydiard Watch Club one is welcome. meeting was well attended by children who made badges, played en- Discover Lydiard Mansion vironmental games and looked at Find out more of the history and wildlife In the Park. An exciting restoration work at Lydiard Manprogramme of monthly meetings is sion on a guided tour of the state planned and anyone interested rooms by the Keeper of the House should contact the Rangers. Sarah Finch-Crisp. The Lydiard Ranger team supGain a deeper insight into the hisport many volunteer conservation tory of the house and the family that groups, which provide a chance to once owned it with expert descripget involved with practical tasks. A tions of the architectural features, meeting is to be held on 7 February furnishing and the portraits on disto discuss the future of the Ashen play. TheKeeperwill also talk about Copse Group in Wroughton. Any- the museum workbehind the scenes one with a pair of wellies and a few and be happy to answer questions. spare hours a month should contact The tour lasts about an hour and Mike Williams at Lydiard. takes place at 230pm on Tuesday 22 The Park will be hosting the February. Normal admission of 50p 'LearningThrough Landscapes' cel- (concs. 25p) applies, but the tour is ebration in early March. An exhibi- free. Booking is not necessary. For tion in the Visitor Centre will be more information, call 770401.

Pictured above with Henry Cooper is Lee Hogan, chosen as one of the country's top ten keep fit instructors to nina workout session on 16January at the 'Workout with the stars' eventatLondon's Olympia in aid of mental health charity MIND. 3,000 people sweated their way to £90,000 worth of sponsorship.

(44-

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-.4

The Link Magazine. February 1994

The International Year of the Family at the West Swindon Family Project by Project Coordinator Mark Thomas

The International Year of the Family changes little at the West SwindonFamily and Community Project. We aim to continue the work that

Visit the shop where sales never end, For fashions, flair and customer care, Or just to browse or visit there The place is not so hard to find For quality clothing of any kind You'll love the way you buy and sell At the top of the hill at

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for further details 59 North Street, Old Town

has been the Project's focus since its inception in 1979, working with children and families in West Swindon. What we would hope is that the

iiW

C~7~ A" & (2ovi6a/ta#lt Anne Dawson

IYF can focus the attention of those with the power to affect change on the plight of many families throughout the country. From a West Swindon viewpoint, because many families moved here for employment during the 1980's, it is often the case that the wider family network of grandparents, aunts, uncles, known as theextended family are not always available to give support. The recession has affected everyone and a recent study by the Consumers Involvement

Project Swindon Health Authority cited marriage breakdown, redundancy, unemployment and debt as growing issues. All these have a marked effect on the emotional well being of any individual or family unit. Apart from its continuing work with local residents, West Swindon Family and Community Project hopes to mark the IYF by an event. This maybe in association with other groups working with families. Look out for further details.

Serving local families and the community: the local volunteer members of the West Swindon Family Project, front from left, Ivy Armstrong, Ros Deakin, Maria Rooney, Chris Barlow. Rear, Jill Adams, Simon Harlow, Mark Thomas

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Chris Barlow at the West Family Project reports

The mixed Autumn! Winter programme proved popular to regular members and newcomers who were welcomed into the group. Serious sessions included firstaid, The schedule for February is self defence for women, road safety, shown below and anyone wishing aromatherapy, hypnotherapy and to join in is welcome to come along an update on health issues from the on Thursday mornings. All sesConsumer Involvement project. sions are free and run fromlOam- 12 For fans of crafts, nostalgia and noon. A creche is provided for unmystery we had the mysterious ob- der 5's. jects quiz, a talk on local ghosts and 3rd Dried flower Arrangements with Carol McGill hauntings, slides of Swindon history, quilling, making American 10th Marbelling decorations and yes, you'veguessed with Suzy Woolaston it, making traditional Christmas 24th Yoga Taster with Marigold O'Brian decorations. The year closed with a snacks and ForfurtherdetailscontactChris,Pam nibbles session at which many tasty or Mark, West Swindon Family & delights and good tips were in- Community Project, 15 Gainsborwardly digested. ough Way, Freshbmok. Tel: 871303

At the West Swindon Townswomen's Guild The first meeting of the year was a talk and slide show by Ken Sherwin from the RSPB on how to care for our garden birds especially during the winter months when food is hard to find. He also suggested some shrubs appealing to look at and beneficial to birds. The next meeting on 10 February at the Link Centre will hear a talk on Chemicals for Health Care. New members are always welcome. Contact Doreen on 693707 or Stevie on 873567, they will be happytotell you about the Guild.

The Link Magazine• February 1994

Hospital volunteer experiment success A small advertisement in the April and also chat to visiting parents." 1993 Link magazine for volunteer Sister Chambers said the volunplay leaders in the paediatric unit at teers help the unit to have a family PMH - the first time they have been atmosphere. "You don't need any nursing experience, just a pleasant used - has proved a great success. Senior Paediatric Nurse Juliet personality and experience with Chambers said the staff are so children. You do need a bit of papleased with the help provided by tience after we interview you betheir first volunteers that they are cause r'olice checks can take time. "However contact us first so that keen to recruit more. Maureen Truman from Toothill the process can get underway. You and Jo Ingram from Lynham re- can change your mind at any time." The paediatric unit is interested sponded to the advertisement and in volunteers to work with under 4s have enjoyed their experiences. "I've been surprised by how much and up to 14 year olds. Call Sisters we've been involved with the chil- Chambers or Cejer on 426351 or dren," said Maureen. "Weplaywith write via Fernham Ward, PMH, the children, feed and bathe them, Okus Road, Old Town, Swindon. Maureen Truman with Nana Bampah, left, and Jo Ingram with Luke Matthews

Come in fancy dress to the West Swindon Focus on Under 5s

Fct ivy Thie Wovkskop Thursday 10 February, 10am - 12 midday Limited spaces. Admission by 25p ticket from Link Centre Community Suite Some of the part time vacancies available at the West Swindon Jobcentre Box Office Assistant required to work Building Society Branch Assistant in West Swindon from 830pm to lam wanted in Wootton Bassett from 2pm from Wednesday to Saturday. £3.05 to 5pm, Monday to Friday and alterper hour. Ref: 7275 nate Saturdays 9am to 1pm. Salary is Weekend Chef with 2 years experi- negotiable. Ref: 7276 ence to work at Blag rove from 9am to Bar Person/General Assistant to 2pm, Saturday and Sunday. £5.50 work evenings 7pm to 11.30pm in a per hour. Ref: 7272 restaurantat Lyneham for £3 per hour. Registered General Nurse needed Ref: 7232 to work 2 nights per week in a nursing Evening cleaners at Wootton home for the elderly from 10pm to Bassett, 4pm to 615pm at £39 per 8am (may include weekends). £6.20 week. Ref: 7219 per hour Ref: 7256 This is a very small selection of the Room Attendant to make beds, clean, jobs on offer at the moment. polish and dust from 9am to 3pm for 3 Call into the Jobcentre at West days per week (will include week- Swindon District Centre to see the ends). £3.27 per hour. Ref: 7254 full, up-to-date display.

Job Alert!

VACANCY

Women's courses Courses run by the Women's Branch of the Workers Education Association starting in February: Building Confidence 6 meetings from Thursday 10 February, 730pm to 9pm, aims to increase self esteem and promote self confidence in a safe and supportive environment. It will help you learn to be honest, clear and direct without swallowing your feelings or ignoring those of others. Venue: Health Hydro, Milton Road. Cost: £18.75 (3.75 reduced) Community Dancing A day for women of all abilities and disabilities to express themselves and enjoy movement. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, as are the dances. No experience is necessary. Saturday 19 February from 10am to 4pm in the Walcot Common Room. Cost £12.50 (E2.50 reduced). Making your experience count A free course for any woman thinking of making changes in her life. Build on your existing strenghts and skills, this course will help get you going where you want to go. 10 meetings starting on Wednesday 23 February, 1230pm to 230pm. Venue: Community Suite, Link Centre. For more information about courses and to make a booking, call 618233.

Creche Development Worker 16+ hrs/wk on sessional basis. £4.50 to £5.50/hr dependent onexperience&qualiTemporary fications (subject to funding after 9/94) Opportunities Enthusiastic person needed to provide quality childcare, a range of play experiences and support for under fives. At least 3 years play related experience, some Good all round experienced with under fives, & 1 year's experience staff, required for the following with the physical needs of young children \•(flj5 & babies (in a paid or voluntary capacity). • Secretarial PA • Telesales We are an equal opportunities employer, • Administration but regret that the building is not suitable Gontact Karen Davison wi for wheelchair access. We don't believe it 619226109R7 Application form and further details from Over 50? Out of work for a year or West Swindon Family & Community securicor more? Need help in finding work? Project 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshrecruitment services '.AfneThirdAgeFirst'NewDirec- brook, Swindon. Closing date: 15/2/94 tions' course starting could help. There have been times when we are unsure and uncertain as to what to do next. The effect on our lives of redundancy or early retirement can be shattering. When our time is Friendly, Professional Tuition spent trying to get back into work Full Individual Hour • Door to Door after long time unemployment, the \FIRST LESS0 task can seem impossible. THERO+ Alan Collict This six day course (three 2 day Tel: 872244 F RE SUCCESS sessions) can assist you define your Est. W. Swindon 1978 new direction and it will help you to prepare for the journey and provide you with support along the way. It will be followed by negotiated training elements and counselling TRAINING over another six weeks with a final half day session to review what has happened. The method of the course BRIGHTEN YOUR PROSPECTS delivery will be a mixture of formal • Learn new skills in a relaxed, informal atmosphere talks, participative exercises and inTi • Increase your earning potential and job prospects dividual work, some of which will with our fast effective courses be required to be completed out of the course time. Commitment to Word Perfect, Word for Windows, Lotus 123, DTP, Typing, Shorthand and Book Keeping. the three 2 day sessions is essential. RSA Exam Centre - Superb Results. There's a two hour introduction Call in or 'phone any time to the course prior to registering participants on9 February, 10.30am TheShaftesbury Centre, - 12.3Opm. 7/ Percy Street, Swindon SN2 2AZ U Ring today for details on 542532 TRAINING SERVICES Tel: (0793) 488518 Monday toFriday,9.30am-3.30pm.

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The Link is distributed to the 15,500 homes in West Swindon, Haydon Wick and Woodhall Park - some 40,000 people who need your products, services or attractions. If you need to communicate with them, there's no better way than through The Link.

Telephone Roger Ogle on 872282 for high impact, targetted advertising

The Link Magazine• February 1994

Advertising Feature

Fixed rate mortgages.. are they really a good idea?

r' v(ne

Mike Rees of Mortgage Brokers Mansfield Begie Associates answers the question

We have been asked many times over the past 12 to 18 months whether it makes good sense to take out a new fixed rate mortgage over a set term, ranging from 2 years up to 10 years. Our answer has been that it makes sense to ensure your monthly mortgage payments stay the same, particularly at a time when interest rates have hit their lowest levels for the las t25 years. 12 months ago the average mortgage rate was 8.55%, and it is now 7.75%, a drop of 0.8%. The general consensus is that, if any changes in rates occur, they will fall again, probably by another 0.5% to 0.7%. Some clients have been using this as a sound argument for 'staying put' on a variable rate until the rates drop and fixed rates come down as well. However, as none of us (even Mr Clarke) have the benefit of a crystal ball, this, in our opinion is taking a big gamble, as it only takes a change in world markets, let alone the UK economy to see rates changing the other way. Even in January 1993 when the variable rate was 8.55% you could get a fixed rate over 3 years at 7.5% which is lower than the present variable rate.

At present there are excellent deals available for all borrowers, particularly first time buyers, with fixed rates as low as 4.99% (95% maximum loan to value) over 2 years. Many clients (existing borrowers) have complained that lenders seem to encourage new borrowers with no proven track record by offering them better deals than some who have had mortgages for years with excellent payment history. We are pleased to say that the trend seems tobechanging, particularly for those who need to borrow up to 100% to move up-market but have little or no equity in their present house, as there is now an equity replacement scheme available at a fixed rate of 4.99% over 2 years, eg £75,000 required to purchase a property for £75,000 would cost 1280.69 net per month, interest only (excluding insurance) for the fixed rate period, with the opportunity to move onto another fixed rate at the end of the 2 years. Some lenders,although they are very selective, are also offering existing borrowers with negative equity a chance to move with the negative equity.

All of this together with the general opinion that we are coming out of the recession, leads to the logical conclusion that there has neverbeen a better time to enter the property market, with property prices static and with low interest rates. However, in order to ensure a constant monthly payment, the ideal solution is to take on a competitive fixed rate together with optional mortgage protection cover (accident, sickness and redundancy) to coveryour total monthly outgoings in connection with the mortgage in case of any unforeseen problems. Therefore, fixed rates are an excellent idea, but longer term rates tend to tie you in to that particular lender and there could be high penalties (up to 6 months interest) on early redemption, so you have to be as sure as you can that you will not want to move house during the fixed rate period. If you need further information, we have access to all the major lenders in the UK, so we can select the right mortgage product to suit your individual needs. Please telephone (0793) 873369 for advice and information.

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The Link Magazine• February 1994

Different views The two photos on the left were kindly supplied by Don Law of M4 microlights. Top: A view looking north with Toothill School in the bottom right and Link Centre in the centre Bottom: Looking down on the play area in the centre of the houses at Nine Elms, Shaw

Action and Adventure for Young People

See the local area and even take the controls with one of England's leading flying instructors Take photos from the control tower

The Army Cadet Force is a national voluntary youth organisation with around 50,000 members nationwide. A new unit has recently been opened in Wootton Bassett, and is keen to find new members. Boys and girls aged 13 - 18 are invited to come along and see us at the Sea Cadet Hut by the Jubilee Lake in Wootton Bassett. We meet at 7pm on a Tuesday. Our activities include regular weekend camps, shooting, map reading, sports, canoeing, abseiling and much more. Anyone interested should contact Steve Upton on 694689. • Adult instructors are needed and anyone who feels they may be able to help should also contact Steve Upton.

FLIGHT GIFT VOUCHERS £35 Redlands Airfield Lower Wanborough Swindon

Tel: (0793) 790052 or 740854 eves. AL

MGM CINEMA COMPETITION Robin Williams' new comedy Mrs Doubtfire opens at the MGM, Shaw Ridge on 28 January. Spot the 9 differences in the pictures below and win an embroidered baseball cap and double complimentary tickets. There are four available. Send your entries to Andre D'Souza at the MGM Cinema, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Westlea, Swindon by 18 February.

Name

Winners of the Addams family cameras in our spot the difference competition last month were Amy Lomas, Carol Hughes, Hailey O'Commer, Gemrna Haines, Sean Ainslow, William Bradfield, Kevin Russell, Shelley Martin, Nicolas Pierce, David Kimber, Lucy Brett. Winner of soundtrack, camera and family tickets was Lindsey Johnstone of The Prinnells, Shaw.

Address

The Link Magazine. February 1994 21

Youth look to go Euro streetdancing A youth dance group based in Toothifi hopes to make an impact in Germany at Easter time, if they can raise the cash to get there. The Stone Youth 2 dance project who can help should contact Jo at which meets at the West Swindon the Link Centre on 871212. Youth Centre atToothil Farm hopes to visit Swindon's twin town Salzgitter as part of a return visit to Getting teenagers German youth workers who will be visiting the town in early February. involved in their They also hope to visit Berlin to own health show off what Swindon youth are up to and to learn new dance steps, A survey to discover how much styles and techniques. young people in West Swindon Youth workerJo Marchment said know about health issues is taking the street dancing and graffiti art place over the next three months. she saw on a trip to Germany in Organised by Wiltshire County October was very exciting. "The Council youth worker Jo Marchdance group has been meeting for a ment, the survey is being conducted year and have gained confidence on a one to one basis or in small from working together with their groups by the seven part time and ideas for dance, rap and street art. It full time staff in the area, with help will be a great experience to meet from volunteers. Jo said the surveyhas severalaims. German youth and to exchange "We want young people to have ideas." The cost of taking the group to information which is relevant to Germany will be well over E2,000 themand we want to assess whether and the group is looking for spon- information being put out by the sors to back their efforts. Anybody health services is having an impact. The survey questions will cover awareness of the majorhealth issues which young people are particuGroup for larly concerned with, such as HIV teenage mums and Aids, and the effects of drug and alcohol consumption. It will opens soon also find out how confident young Two local community workers are people are in visiting their doctor. looking for young mothers, and "We want to find out how aware mums to be, to form a new group young people are oftheirown health aimed providing support and ad- and what they think of health facilivice. ties in the area," said Jo. "We'll be The project called Mates - Mums asking how happy they are about and Teenagers Education and Sup- visiting a doctor, their knowledge of port - has financial backing from the alcohol abuse and also how much at Wiltshire Community Foundation risk they feel from HIV infection. and is being organised by Pam "The survey will give young peoPixton and Miriam Minty from ple the chance to talk about their Thamesdown's Community Devel- health worries and experiences in opment Department. total confidence. A summary of the Pam said there are some very survey findings will be sent to the young mothers living in the area. Swindon Health Authority to help it "We want to bring together young better target resources at youth." teenagers with theirbabies, and teenagers who are pregnant. The group will give them a chance to meet and talk about their experiences. It will New support be a chance to pass on health information and welfare rights advice, group for and we willalsobeable to talk about Asian women their lives beyond babies." She said Mates will meet weekly, Anew group for Asian women who with a free creche organised twice a are isolated, worried, depressed, month so that mums can take part in anxious or have post-natal depresdiscussions without having to worry sion is being set up at the Broad Green Community Centre, Salisabout their children. PamandMiriamare visiting simi- bury Street, Swindon. The group starts onWednesday2 lar support projects in other towns and hope to organise the Mates March, meeting from 2pm-4pm. group at the West Swindon Family Refreshments will be available, free for the first visit. Project as soon as possible. Children are also welcome to join Teenage mums who would like to find out more can contact Pam or in. This project is part of Swindon Miriam at the Link Centre Community Suite, telephone 871212 ext 234. Resource Centre's work in the comThey can also be contacted via munity. For further information contact Parmjit Banga on 421462. Health Visitors.

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Letters to The Link

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to the address on page 3

LINK SMALL ADS A thank you from Bosnia Hercegovina Ring (0793) 872282 for details Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

S.C.S BOOK-KEEPING SERVICE Small Business Book-keeping, Wages, VAT, & Final Accounts

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From Karen Mat hieson, Women's Association of Bosnia and Hercegovina I write to thank you on behalf of the many refugees from Bosnia and Hercegovina whose winterhas been made a little brighter by your genurosity and kindness. The Association of Bosnia and Hercegovina, Zena Bill, is working consistently to try and relieve the plight of their fellow refugees but they are virtually helpless without assistance such as yours. Their only resources are their own determination and the belief that one day life will be better. The knowledge that people outside, like yourselves, are aware and concerned and more importantly willing to come to their aid, is the food that sustains this hope. The aid you sent us - food, medicines, medical equipment - is directly assisting over 1,000 refugees. Some residing in Camp Varazdin and others in Zagreb.

seen, heard and felt with you. The war has been continuing for so long that much of the world is giving up trying to help - just when help is needed most. So, much heartfelt thanks again for your work, effort and kindness. Without continuing support such as yours the future would hold so little hope for so many people. Thank you. * See December and January Link's

Christmas burglary. Can you help?

From a resident of Shaw (name and address supplied) It is very difficult to adjust one's ing for a traditional wedding and lifestyle sometimes and surely no- home also had to go without. one has had to try harder than this Surely someone knows what haphousehold. pened to the items taken,eg. a Russell First being made redundant, then Hobbs electric can opener, an egg having one's living environment poacher, brandy decanter and completely changed by surround- glasses bought from Deben-hams ingdevelopment and now, currently made by Opera or similar, a set of along with most others, suffering as spanners and a set of insulated a result of the recession. screwdrivers with red handles and So at Christmas time when things stems, finally some White Musk are very hard, it was disheartening perfume and Body Shop bath salts. and depressing to discover ChristSomebody must have mysterimas stolen presents from my car ously turned up with these presents which was parked outside my home late on Christmas eve, without exSmith-Corona electric automatic type- between the Chapel and the Nine planation as to where they had come writer, perfect condition, as new, complete Elms pub in Old Shaw Lane on from. All presents had been with carry case and manuals, £39. Christmas Eve. wrapped but not labelled. How can Tel: 871330 (Shaw) Quite apart from the hardship anybody steal and get pleasure from Gents Raleigh city bicycle, immaculate condition, £40. Tel: 881559 (Middleleaze) caused to ourselves In trying to re- claiming to give stolen goods. Anybody who knows anything Marks & Spencer suits: Navy pinstripe, place these presents, my 80 year old medium 38," 29" in. leg £15. Mid-grey mother did not receive her present, about this should pass information wool, snort 42 chest, 29.5 in. leg, £15. my out of work brother did not re- to Swindon Police, tel: (0793)528111 Tel: 771640 (L. Millicent) ceive his, and my niece, who is say- ex 464 Wheel trims for Nissan Micra, 4 in good condition, £15, also another 2 spare ones £5. Tel: 872426 Dangerous footpaths in Freshbrook Car stereo radio, Ford 2001 model, un- From FFowler, Crawford Close, Freshbrook used & under warranty, key coded secuThree of the street lights between rity, operator guide, £39 ono. Tel: 870792 The police recently sent a publica(Middleleaze) tion out suggesting ways for senior the Community Centre and CrawDirect Fortec hot water cylinder, 48x1 8 citizens to be safer on the roads in ford Close are not working. This has immersion tank. £30, ono. Tel: 871397 West Swindon. been reported several times. I even G-Plan coffee table, teak with ceramic Butitisjustas dangerous forolder took two SEB employees and tiled top, £30. Garrard AP 75 turntable, £10. B & 04 band transistor radio, battery people on the so called footpaths in showed them which lamps were not only, U. Tel: 726147 (Haydon Wick) Freshbrook. There seems tobemore working, all to no avail. Mountain bike, girls age 7-11, 10 speed, cycles on the paths than pedestriWe get motor cycles delivering lights, vgc, £25. Tel: 874282 (Shaw) ans, this includes adults as well as pizzasand they arealwayslnahurry. children. It Is very disconcerting to On Saturday and Sunday afterLOST be walking along and have somenoon weget people ridinghorses on In Freshbrook since 29 December. Has anybody seen a grey male tabby cat. Tel: one shout "Get out of the way" so the footpaths. 644553 I wrote to our three councillors in that they don't have to slow down. To make matters worse after dark November 1992 but only Sue Bates most of the cycles have no lights, came to see me.

LL\LiD3 E)

FOR SALE Dark Mahogany Long John Table £20, Lamp Tables x2 22"x22" £30 ea, Small round wine table £5, TVNideo Cabinet 37"x34'x18" £125. Sealy king bed/continentalh. board £100, Ottoman 5'x18"a20, 4 piece Millbrook green velour lounge suite £350, 3 display units 74"x36"xl 5" £30 ea., Three tier tray trolley £15. Tel: 875305 Fireplace wood and brick construction, free standing, complete with electric fire, £130 ono. Tel: 616033 (Freshbrook) Ice skates, Graf 101 Elite, size 9, yellow and black, good condition, £30 ono. Tel: 874644 Pram, grey cord, mattress, shopping tray, extra pram top, could be used as carrycot, excellent condition, £55 for quick sale. Tel: 420360 (Toothill) Girl's bicycle suit 6-8 yrs, Raleigh 'Magic' in very good condition. Three tone electronic horn and rear carrier box, £35. Tel: 726549 (Haydon Wick) Three hard white wood doors, 510. Alba stereo unit in cabinet, £30. ZX Spectrum plus aprox 100 games, plus Kempston joy stick, £50. Tel: 874990 (Peatmoor) Dimplex heated towel rail, chrome finish, excellent condition, offered at £30, less than half new price.Tel:770076 (L. Millicent) Folding guest bed, mattress 62"x30"x4", £25. Tel: 875230 (Shaw)

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Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 16th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication)

Zena BIT-I runs Transit Centres, an elderly project and a project for the wounded, all of which you have contributed to. We would also like to thankKathy Dunbar and ClairWaildey" forcoming into Croatia, a very generous step that Jam sure reflects the open hearts of your whole community. They were able to assist us in many ways and I hope share all they have

I I

Christmas thanks From Mrs IC Piatek and Mrs S Gardiner, Jack and Jill Toddlers, Toothill We would like to express our thanks (pirate) 1st, Rory (Teenage Mutant to the following companies who Turtle) 2nd, Matthew (Tomato) 3rd. donated prizes for our raffle at our Nicky won the mums competition Christmas Party on 14 December. as Dracula. The children had a surThey are: Ladybird Books, Super- prise visit from Father Christmas bowl and Readers Digest. who delivered their presents and We would also like to say thank everyone had a really great time. you to Toothill Councillor Linda Lastly we would like to thank Green for coming and judging both everyone for buying tickets for our the childrens and adults fancy dress raffle which raised £29, and to all the competitions, the winners are: Toni mums for their continuing support.

locallives

Freshbrook Evangelical Church

Under pressure in the magazine market We meet Martin Parrott from Westlea who buys magazines Budget day at the end of November is a long time ago, but an enormous sigh of relief rippled through the magazine and newspaper publishmgindustiy when the threat of VAT on publications was lifted. A loss of over 1,000 titles and 5,000 jobs nationwide was predicted if the tax had been imposed.

always pushing him to buy their new titles for the retailers. But the retailer only wants the best sellers. Well known magazines do well and they only want the best new titles. However Martin cannot tell precisely which ones people will buy. If it sells, he won't have bought enough. But if people are not at-

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tracted by a magazine, then he will have bought too many. His purchasing decisions are often influenced by the amount of radio and TV advertising a publisher plans to putbehind a new title. Other promotions such as free gifts and special offers also help launch a magazine. "The magazine market is highly segmented with several titles battling it out in each area," said Martin. "Gardening titles were dormant until the BBC brought theirs out a couple of years ago, then they all improved to keep up. Food magazines sell in fits and starts depending on the time of the year, the computer market is clogged, car magazine sales are fairly constant, whilst the women's market is up and down. The launch of Bella and Prima from Germany a few years back gave British publishers a big jolt and they've had to improve their products to keep their readers." In spite of the growing attractions of multi-channel cable and satellite TV, Martin believes that the written word has a healthy future. Like so many of us he reads whilst the TV is on. It's the only time he has to look at theproducts hedeals withallday. When not trying to predict what magazine the public will buy in two orthree months time, Martin's currentpassionis restoringold cars. He hopes to complete a Morris 1,000 Traveller in a few months which will be used as a delivery car for Blooms the Florist, the shop his wife Shirley opened in Westcott Place five years ago.

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Westlea Church (lOam) Rev Peter Walker 872932 Parish-wide: Rev. Ruth Walker 872932 Evening & other services as announced

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It allowed publishers to get back to the ferocious competition in the battle to retain and attract readers to their titles. In the middle of the war locally is MartinParrott who is magazine sales manager for'MS Group. He's responsible for purchasing magazines for distribution in a 17 mile radius around Swindon. Daily he tries to balance the demands of publishers to get their new magazines in front of the public and the needs of retailers to have the popular sure selling magazines on their shelves. Martin often finds himself making decisions about stocking new magazines two or three months before they are due to arrive. Often its a case of using his mental crystalball developed over years of buying experience. "Who said there's been a recession over the last three years," says Martin. "Publishers have been very active bringing out new magazines to retain their share of the market and to try and attract new readers from other publications. "Apart from regular readers, there is a huge floating readership in different sections of the market; the buying public are very fickle. The cover has to be striking to attract people to pick it up; it's well known that a photo of Princess Diana will help sales. The more specialist a market such as computing, the more likely a new title will pick up first time readers to try it out." Being in the middle of all this frantic activity puts Martin in a no win situation. The publishers are

St. Mary's, L.Tregoze (10.30am) (for Freshbrook & Grange Park) Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Holy Trinity, Shaw (10.30am) Rev. Andrew Hethrington 770568 Tooth ill Church (10.45am) Rev. George Gibson 692620

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