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TOOTHILL CHINESE KITCHEN

No. 154 • February 1995 • Circulation 15,000

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Fish & Chips and Chinese Food Takeaway

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Wine & Dine on Valentine's Swindon's newest park at Shaw Tip is ready for tree planting and readers are invited to Day. Turn to make a start at a grand, free Chinese New Year celebration tree plant on Sundays February pages 16 and 18 to book your table. The event organised by the Great

Plant a tree for Chinese New Year

Western Community Forest team will feature lion dancers from the London based Chinese cultural centre, Chinese fortune telling, kite making and a silk banner workshop. The Swindon Chinese community will be offering visitors a 'Taste of the Orient' where they will be serving delicious Chinese food at a modest cost. There will also be English food on offer, as well as soup to warm up the February weather. Some of the entertainment and displays will take place inside a large marquee on the site. Community Forest promotions officer Julia Castle said children will be encouraged to think about the long term development of the park through environmental games and activities. "The Chinesc New Year launch is an ideal way to bring good luck to this new park, but it will be 50 years before the scheme is fully planted and reaching maturity - when the children of today will be adults. "It's a tremendous opportunity for people of all ages to help launch a project for the future. We have 6,000 trees to be planted, but we will only be covering about three acres."

Keen fan's best bid for football

Lawrence Lee, proprietor of the Chinese Experience restaurant at Sparcells preparing for Chinese New Year with Julia Castle and Landscape Architect Matthew Hawkins of the Great Western Community Forest "Bring the family, from the youngest to the oldest. We need to get all the trees planted and we need everybody to help out. It's completely free. Qualified foresters will provide expert advice and all materials will be provided. Bring a spade if you can and don't forget your wellington boots." The Chinese New Year plant-in will open at lOam on 5 February with the painting of the eyes of the lion, to bring him alive and bring

good luck to all, and will go on until 4pm. The Shaw Tip park will be found on Mead Way between the Renault Building and Sparcells. Car parking will be available at the Hiimead Business Park, but there will be closer parking for people with disabilities, plus volunteers to help push wheelchairs. For more information call the Great Western Community Forest team on 493553.

Twelve year old Paul Goncalves from Grange Park delved into his pocket money at the St Mary's Church Christmas Fair in early December to bid £24 for a football signed by Swindon Town players. His prize was delivered to his home by Town goalkeeper Nicky Hammond before Christmas, after newclub nianagerSteve McMahon had put his signature to it.

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The Link Magazine. February 1995

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Swimmers thanked Eighteen out of the 21 swimmers who 'made a splash for asthma'in the autumn attend the West Swindon Lions meeting on 10 January at the DeVere Hotel to be presented with certificates for taking part. A total of ÂŁ810.89 was raised for the National Asthma Campaign in the Link Centre swimming pool on 8 October. Back row, from left, Faye Amos Sheppard, Anna Reeve, Claire Reeve, Emma Uncles, Chair of Swindon Branch National Asthma Campaign Blanche Oakley, Chair of West Swindon Lions Gloria Haynes, Ronald Naylor. Second row, Helen Brown, Daniel Wells, Jenny Ferguson. Front, Chris Howells, Jamie Walters, Bobby Nottage, Claire McFauld, Catherine Howarth

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Swindon now has a support group forparents who have children with eczema. Maggie Bartlett, coordinator explained, "My own daughter, Laura is three and has had eczema since she was 6 weeks old. We have had many a bad week where she has been constantly scratching and crying. "1 wanted to meet other parents in the same situation but found there was nobody to support me. I have since decided to form a support group." The group meets on the first Monday of the month at Carfax Street Health Centre from lOam 12 noon and offers members the chance to exchange ideas on how to cope. If you are interested in the group contact Maggie on 613517 or just turn up at one of their meetings.

West Swindon Lions are pleased to announce that Vicky Cox, 18, their nomination for the Lions Youth Award, won the regional semi-finals in January and goes forward to national judging at the end of February. Vicky, pictured right, is a volunteer with the 'Thumbs Up' playscheme for children and teenagers with severe learning difficulties which meets at Greendown School during the holidays. She has worked with the scheme for three years and is now responsible for 6 children and 6 other volunteers. Vicky is also a Sunday school teacher and recently won a trophy for 10 pin bowling.

Copy date for the March edition: 13 February Published 25 February

Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8PQ

Editorial: Roger Ogle

Tel: (0793) 872282

Published monthly.

Publisher/Editor Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

Copy for April: 20 March 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.

Contents 4 Toothill Freshbrook 5 & Grange Park Westlea 6 8 Shaw 9 Haydon Wick 10 At Your Library 11-13 Swindon Wide What's On 14 Recreation 15-23 News & Views 24 Local Lives

The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994."

The Link Magazine• February 1995

DEMOCRACY

/w'i&

How much do we have Now can we get more .. CHARTER 88, the citizens' movement for constitutional change, is holding a PUBLIC FORUM with: Simon Coombs, Member of Parliament for Swindon The Rt. Revd, Michael Doe, Bishop of Swindon Jean Lambert, Charter 88 National Council Member A Student of Politics at Swindon College Norman Richards, University of the Third Age (U3A)

Friday 10 February 730pm (bar from 7.00pm) Link Arts Studio, Link Centre

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The first in a series of local meetings feeding into the Charter 88 Citizens' enquiry

All readers welcome to attend

& C I. 444 04 MORGAN SOLICITORS

Shopper bus expands, but Asda won't help Thamesdown Dial-A-Ride has increased its bus service for elderly and disabled people in the West Swindon area. A new free service to the Wendy Fair market at Dorcan on Wednesday has been introduced and runs between lOam and 2pm. Dial-A-Ride is continuing the long running bus service to the West Swindon Centre which was originally started to serve the outside market. The market has now closed but Asda has refused to take over financial support for the service. Therefore passengers are asked to pay £1 fora return trip from any part of West Swindon, 60p for a single trip.

Places on the buses have to be reserved. To make a trip to Dorcan or the West Swindon Centre, call 616050 on Monday after 1pm.

Fire fighter's thanks The crews from Westlea fire station would like to thank everybody who contributed to their col lection at the West Swindon Centre on Friday 23 December The £1,300 collected will be split between the Fire Service's National Benevolent Fund and the Paediatric Unit at PMH.

Calling all men! Like to be appreciated? Fancy a laugh? Want to meet new people? The Haydon Wick Players is call- might be, why not come along one ing all men who fancy the idea of Monday evening after eight to the 'treading the boards'. We need Haydon Centre, opposite Safeway you! We are presently selecting in Haydon Wick, Swindon. We'd plays for the May production, also appreciate anyone interested which will be followed by casting. in backstage work, sound producIf you're interested, or think you tion, costumes etc.

TWO DRAMA GROUPS GET TOGETHER FOR A HAROLD PINTER DOUBLE BILL Saturday 18 February, 7.30pm Greendown Drama Studio Junction 16 Drama Group: The Room Head to Toe Theatre Group: Night Tickets £2.50 on the door, includes refreshments. Further information from Ken Kimber 882378

Support your local community magazine Ifyou use a business or a service which does not advertise with us already, tell them what a readable, informative and helpful publication The Link is. If they take an advertisement we'll come round with a gift for you.

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Residents asked to attend crisis meeting to keep Toothill Community Centre open On Tuesday 7 February at 730pm there will be a Special General Meeting held at the centre in an attempt to overcome a crisis caused by the relatively low number of members on the Centre's management committee, writes Bob Johnson. Toothill Community Centre of many people living in and plays an important part in the life around Toothill. A playgroup, youth clubs, bingo, lunch club and advice point use the centre, run directly by members of the committee or by volunteers using the WE HAVE IT ALL facilities provided. The Toothill community deserve to have a community centre that DUNCAN CAR SPARES continues to meet their needs and COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF build on its past successes. To do GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES this there has to be a strong and MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED forward thinking management CARS & COMMERCIALS committee who care about the comBOUGHT FOR CASH munity that they live in. BMW PARTS REMOVED BY ___ All too often people say 'If only OUR OWN PERSONNEL there was a club' or 'there is TEL: 0793- 820000 nothing to do around here' or 'I UN T 59 TNORNHILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE could run or do that better'. SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON Well now people have the chance to do something positive instead

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Remember it is your centre. of just moaning about things. A small group of hardworking and Don't leave it up to others to prodedicated committee members vide the centre Toothill deserves need your help, so why not come and needs. along to the Special General MeetFor more information contact ing, listen to what is said and if you Bob Johnson, Community Centres feel you have something to offer Officer at Thamesdown Borough your community get Involved. Council on 526161 ext 4841

Nearly New/Rummage Sale Toothill Community Centre Saturday 18 February, 10am - 1 p Light refreshments. Admission 1 Op per person. Free Bicycle Security Stamping Organised by West Swindon Lions Club

Donations welcomed: Call Lion Chris Chorley on 877226 to arrange collection for any donations of books, toys and clothes, etc.

School gets two inspections in one

Oliver Tomkins junior School has been assessed as a 'well-ordered and MM caring community' according to government inspectors from Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education. As a Church ofEngland primary The report notes the school is school, the inspection focused on well run and resources are generboth the spiritual side of the school ally managed satisfactorily. Specialising in the TNS Pain Relief System, and the educational and manage- In order to further raise standards, the inspectors recommend ment aspects. Back Problems & Acupuncture that governors and senior staff improve the implementation of Raymond Peach • Tel: 870958 (Shaw) the many good policies for curriculum and assessment, improve workin designand technology,and generally raise teacher expectations of pupils in the lower school. Commenting on the reports, S.., 1.0 chair of governors lain Brown said 0*. he was pleased with the outcome of a very thorough and profes1.0 sional evaluation of the school. S., Headteacher Revd. Andrew Pagett, said, "One of our main aims 1.S has always been to encourage chilS.., dren to work to their full potential 1.4 and to achieve the highest standS.., 1.05 p., Revd. Andrew Pagett and governor's ards possible. I am particularly P'S P'S chairman lain Brown welcoming the pleased they considered our pas9. 1.4 Ofs fed report toral care exemplary, with the proThe report's main findings say motion of pupil's self-esteem seen 1.05 P5% the 'children's spiritual, social and as a key factor." 1.05 moral development is positively fostered. Pupil's behaviour is good 005 Outings for toddlers and there are positive relationships between children and adults.' The There's a warm welcome for nO school is commended for its vision parents with pre-school children FOAM PE WAVE statement underpinning the Chris- at Toothill's Jack and Jill parent i-If tian basis of the curriculum and and toddler groups which meets I 5oN'—oM Q 11 0* QUE THAT the life of the school. on Tuesdays between 1 Oam and 1.'S4 The inspectors found that stand- 12 noon at the Toothill Farm 045 00' ards in English are equal to na- centre, Bodiam Drive. A T 4. 4. 0*" tional norms and are high in drama. There are regular book, cI CLU Jewellery and toy parties and trips Maths standards are broadly in 4. 45 line with national norms. There to farms and zoos. There are are examples of above average also outings for parents without ¶45 achievements in Science. the company of children. Children have positiveattitudes Newcomers are always welcome Toothill Village Centre Tel: (0793) 422824 to learning and the majority make to Join in. Llden Village Centre Tel: (0793) 512519 j satisfactory progress in knowl- To find out more, call Mandy Last on 641432. edge, understanding and skills.

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Bingo on Sundays Freshbrook Community Centre Doors open 7pm. Eyes down 7.40pm. 20p admission For more information, telephone 872450

Ex-CID man on the beat to bust the burglars Freshbrook and Grange Park now has a new and highly experienced policeman on the streets. With twenty-five years of police service, Peter Mathias, 44, is pounding the beat with the aim of catching the burglars who have been plaguing parts ofGrangePark and sorting out the vandals who have been causing damage at Freshbrook Village Centre. A keen sportsman, he came to Wiltshire from mid-Wales to join the police in 1970, with a view to returning home. But he never left. Peter has also spent a number of years in the CID around the county and also did a spell with the South West Regional Crime Squad. He started his rounds on 4January and is getting to know the area. "At least 70 streets in both Freshbrook and Grange Park are not covered by Neighbourhood Watch Schemes," said Peter. "The odds against crime can be improved if residents take an interest in each others' security." Ha said there has been a spate of early evening burglaries in Grange Park, and he is concerned that are many sheds and garages are left unlocked and contain valuable garden tools and new mountain

Labour regains seat The bye-election on 12 Janaury for one of the three seats to represent Freshbrook and Grange Park on Thames down Council was won by the Labour candidate Ray Smith. The election was called after sitting councillor Neil Bristow resigned from the Conservative Party and decided to seek re-election as a Liberal Democrat. A21% turnout gave 564 votes to Ray Smith, 505 for Neil Bristow and 341 for Tory Michael Rose. Ray Smith can be contacted at 26 Hathaway Road, Upper Stratton, Swindon. Tel: 831693. The other two councillors representingFreshbrook& GrangePark are: Simon Cordon, (Lib. Dem.) 53 Matley Moor, Liden. Tel: 617723 Jean Melville, (Lib. Dem.) 9 Audicy Close, Grange Park. Tel: 873086.

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bikes given as Christmas presents. Traders at Freshbrook Village Centre have recently had backing from the police in their calls to Thamesdown Council for closed circuit TV cameras. However the cash is unlikely to be forthcoming in the short term and Peter's presence will have to act as a deterrent to the people causing the vandalism and aggravation.

Black belt bonanza Freshbrook's Tai Jutsu Kai Jujitsu club boosted its black belt collection when nine members achieved the status just before Christmas. Trained over the last seven years by Quentin Ball, who returned from eighteen months training with Jujitsu masters in Japan last year, the nine new black belts include five juniors under 15. Sensei Ball said he was very pleased by the club's performance. "The members who went to grading were outstanding. Many could have qualified for black belts earlier, but by training for longer, they demonstrated an excellent standard, showing good technique and etiquette." The Freshbrook Club meets on Mondays and Thursdays 6.30pm 7.30pm for 7 to 14 year olds and 7.40pm- 9pm for over 14s in Freshbrook Community Centre. Quentin Ball also runs a childrens session at the Hayden Centre on Tuesday at 6.30pm. New members are invited to go along to the above sessions.

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Family literacy project launched Top children's authors Gill Murphy and Verna Allette Wilkins launched Westlea School's nationally recognised story sack project to promote literacy within the family on 25 January. Each sack takes the title of a children's book and contains soft toys, tapes, games and suggestions on how parents can work with their children to improve reading and speaking skills using the contents. Fifty story sacks have been made by volunteer mums over the last fifteen months. One hundred is their target. A report by the Adult Literacy and Basic SkillsUnit onl8January found that levels of literacy and numeracy amongst adults is drop-

ping with people in their early 20's showing particularly low ability. • Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths will speak about the story sack project at a conference attended by Princess Anne and Secretary of State Gillian Sheppard on 15 February, during a week of events to publicise adult literacy • Set your video recorders. Westlea School's pioneering scheme will be featured on BBC Select film at 4.30am - 5am on 17 February.

The hard workers who have made the story sacks possible, Westlea mums,from left,Judith Blake, Sarah Morris, Vanessa Spackman, Chris Dams, headteacher Neil Griffiths, Jill Wells, Marie Copp, Judith Mumford. Front: Wanda Allen, Lyne Searancke, Sue Axon-Eaves

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Car giant's grant gives depth to canal studies Youngsters at Westlea School will be studying canals this term with the help of a £650 grant from the Toyota Science and Technology Fund. Teachers Ann Cox and Elizabeth Wood were awarded the money to

pursue their 'Forces at Work and Play' project. Two classes of 10 and 11 year olds will study canal transport in depth by making visits to the British Wateways Museum at Gloucester and theKennet and Avon Canal in Devizes. The children will be studying Rhonda Leeks and James Deeley hold the history of canals, their contriup a Toyota certificate with Elizabeth bution to industrial development, Wood, with James Clifforde and the technology of lock operation Lyndsey Tullet in front and canal boat loading and unloading. Next month, the children will observe the draining of the Caen Hill flight of locks in Devizes and study the removalof lock gates for repair. The grant will also fund an artist to work with children in school designing and painting plates, cups, jugs and buckets in traditional canal styles. Elizabeth Wood said the Toyota grant made through the Wiltshire Education and Business Partnership would allow their children to study canals in greater depth and would provide experiences that would not havebeen possible without it.

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Swindon 873369 Mansfield Begbie Associates is an introducer appointed representative to Cornhill Insurance PLC for life assurance and pensions business. Cornhill Insurance PLC is a member of the PIA. A life assurance policy may be required. Credrt keoker tees of pp so 1% on the advance may be charged at com pletion dependreg on the type of product aol eredit pedod.Rate applied is 3.9%PA (4.1% APR) foe one year. APR Is variabl e. Roles may vary. A Imittee qoof050n on bats can be obtained on request. Only available at persons 18 yeas of age or over. Sub ject at stabs Subject at our moment lerofleg criteria. A 4.2% reduction applied to tte oaLolae base mortgage rate, momenty 8.1%. Those applicants benofilstg hoer he epocis discoont who redeem their nroega9e oeasn tcee years from the dale of corrrptolton we be drarged an atk9londi two ,00etts interest The charge will be reimbursed ifs new rnoeage I. then token out ale the Society, Example: A r,ra,ried couple aged 30 years ad 28 yeas, both non-smokers, ppçdpeg toe on eroflowerent mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), oornpletrg betore 31 December 1994 secored against a property bekrg paheacod for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tax of £143. Monthly eedorsnrent premium of £7496 Toll wmrourfpayrbde £99,035. calculated to imodede: Valuation lee £140. The hewla000 Is based on the assumption that the disonoerled male rsrl apply a'eoogrrost the bern of the oar. Maonrare loon £150,000. The 3.9% rate apples to oats pp at and thdbarg 95% of the poedrase peon a valuation, w*4theeor Is the tome,. The dicoorarled tale is qode for erie yew, abet *tddm the then current tale will apply. When an applicant is boeroweng more than 75% the Sociely *I require Edilonis sxily. This is ttsuy In the lever eta Risk Cone.

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For the second year running children at Shaw Ridge School donated the proceeds of their autumn Harvest Festival and December Carol Concert to the Swindon Crisis at Christmas project for the homeless.

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The organisers were delighted with the gift of £200 which covered most the cost of heating, lighting and rent for the crisis centre over the Christmas period. Ten year Adam Brown from Edgeworth Close, Shaw was the inspiration behind the Blue Peter Well Water Appeal Bring and Buy Sale held at the school on 13 January which raised £160. He said, "I asked Mr Burke our headteacherif we could organise sale before Christmas after I saw the Blue Peter programme about how village people in India don't have clean water. We wrote to Studying the ancient Greeks was a children in other classes and asked topic last term at Shaw Ridge. them to help by selling old toys, Jonathan Mills, left above, and James books and puzzles. And we asked Turner tried their hand at making a them to get their mums and dads tasty moussaka for their classmates to make cakes to sell."

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Teacher Melanie Bath shows Mike Reece the plans for the Brook Field outdoor education area whilst children hold up a 3D model, from left, Rosa HirschHolland, Abbie Twyman, Vicky Ford, Chris Mills, Laura McCance, Stephen Thomas Over the last four years parents and volunteers have been working on landscaping, path and pond making projects with grant aid and donations. Over 400 trees have been planted. Brook Field headteacher Roger Nicholas said children were asked to put forward ideas for a multipurpose wooden structure and parents were also consulted. "The structure will be used for language, drama, technology and of course play time activities. The eventual total cost will be £9,000 and we're extremely thankful to Mansfield Begbie Associates for starting the ball rolling."

Mike Reece of Mansfield Begbie Associates said the company tried to support a local cause every year and had provided backing for a special learning project at Westlea School and the Alex Mortimer Fund in Stratton. "The raffle will encourage parents to contribute to theirchildren'seducation," he said. There are 1,000 books of raffle tickets each worth £1 available from BrookField School. Thodraw takes place at the end of March. The first prize is £250 cash, the second is £150 worth of WH Smith vouchers. The five runners up will receive Early Learning Centre vouchers worth £10 each.

HAYDON WICK

Thumbs up for Link magazine after first year in north Haydon Wick residents have given resounding support to The Link magazine on the first anniversary of publication in the area. "It's a good thing" said Haydon Centre receptionist Elaine Holden (pictured below). "I used to work at the Link Centre and people were coming in all the time asking about things they'd seen in The Link. It's was a good idea to broaden its distribution area."

Production Operator Owen Martin from Greenmeadow was equally enthusiastic. "It's set out a lot better than other free titles, it's more informative and I'd say it's a good thing for Haydon Wick." The magazine is proving to be a handy source of community information.

"It's very well presented," said mature student Dan! Deighton of Woodhall Park, "The advertising is well balanced with the information, there's something to read on every page and it's useful in providing a community link." It keeps me informed and I like the film reviews," said mum of two, Tracy Smith (23). The Link is proving popular with readers of all ages. 19 year old students Aaron Mason and Paul Lockyer are both impressed. "It's easy on the eye with good quality printing," said Aaron, "The Link doesn't come off on your hands!" "It aids community spirit", said Paul. The views of everyone seemed to be summed up by Greenmeadow pensioner Iris Seiwood. "It's something to read, something to look at, keeps you up to date with what's going on in the area, something to look forward to once a month and, best of all, it's free!" In the year since Its launch The Link has become a welcome addition to community life in Haydon Wick and residents hope it'll be a case of many happy returns!

Step in & step out

Summers get it off

If you resolved to get fit in 95 you could do worse than check out the Haydon Centre's Wednesday workouts with something for all levels of fitness and unfitness. The evening kicks off with Turns & Burns, 6.15pm - 7pm, a low impact class designed to tone up those problem thigh and stomach muscles. It's Steps between 7pm - 8pm, a total body workout for those who have stepped before. The evening concludes withSteppingOut, 8pm - 9pm, a session for starter steppers suitable for all fitness levels. For further information simply go along to a session or ring 706666.

Congratulations to Haydon Wick Slimming World members who have more than just a weight off their minds. During 1994 these successful summers lost a colossal 4,892 ibs, the equivalent of thirtyfive 10 stone people. The club, which meets at St John's Church, offers two eating plans to suit all lifestyles and is so popular that an extra session has been recently added. If you want to shed those festive pounds pop along to a meeting on Monday, 6.15pm - 8pm or 8pm - 9.30pm, or Thursdays, 7pm - 8.30pm. Call Chris on 871026 for more details.

THE NEW MARKET HALL MARKET STREET, SWINDON

Do you know what's inside? Butcher • Baker Newsagent' Shoe shops' Cobblers Sports goods' Plants • Fashion • Fabrics' Rugs Computer games. Nursery goods . Cards • Flowers Pet shop 'Tools Jewellery • Sweets • Kitchen wear Wallpapers' Crafts • Cafe

Your everyday shopping and much much more New Market Hall (just behind MacDonalds) Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm /I

Meeting place available Greenmeadow School has a vacancy for a letting for social activities on Wednesday evenings. Clubs or societies interested in making a booking should contact the school on 521141.

AT MAYS YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT

SOME IMPORTANT DATES Revisit from silver band

Hreod 21st reunion Were you part of Hreod Parkway School's class of '74? If so you may be interested in a reunion on Saturday 25 February at a venue near the school. If you left school in the summer of '74 then you are invited to attend though places are limited to 150. For more details contact Ross Page on 726709, Steve Richmond on 727518 or lain Haddrel on 618465.

Back at the Haydon Centre by popular demand are the Aldbourne Band who will be in concert from 7.30pm on Saturday 25 February. The concert, promoted by the Bowling Club, is sure to attract a lot of interest following the band's enjoyable performance early last year. Tickets at v.50 or E2 (concs.) are available now from Centre recept ion or call Barry Smith, 722972, Book the kids in early Les Haines, 725395 or Duncan Haydon Centre staff are joining Harper 644239. forces with The Muddy Paw Pac Bowlers subs. for the Sly Fox Holiday Camp Haydon Wick Bowling Club mem- from 20 to 24 February. bers are reminded that 1995 subThe Pac, leisure management scriptions are now due, half by the students from Swindon College, end of January and the remainder will be helping children to enjoy by 16 March. hours of half-term fun daily 10am New Bowling Club member- -4pm with a mix of sports, games, ships are also currently available arts and crafts and other to Haydon Wick parishioners. To structured activities. Early find out more contact Duncan booking is advisable for these very popular sessions on 706666. Harper on 644239.

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Your library (West Swindon or Moredon) has everything you need to serenade the one you love on Valentine's Day.. and a lot more besides writes David Reed. Whatever your musical tastes struments at all levels, music scores and abilities your library should from a wide variety of artistes, comhave something for you. Both li- posers and musicals, biographies braries are displaying a range of of musicians and pop groups, and items available for you to borrow. material covering periods of musiWhetheryou like classical, techno, cal history. Whatever you want rap, soul, rock, heavy metal, house, we should be able to get it for you. Your library also has details of easy listening, folk or musicals, we should be able to satisfy your local choirs and other music clubs so come and find out what they do needs. West Swindon has over 450 and how to join. tapes (60p for 3 weeks) and both Wiltshire has a music and dance Moredon and West Swindon have library, based at Devizes, which access to the thousands of tapes provides a musical information and CDs (1 for 3 weeks plus 70p service as well as supporting mureservation charge) in other librar- sic and drama groups across the county. Do ask for further details ies across the county. Both libraries have tutor books if you want to make use of this to teach you to play particular in- service. Ten first novels at West Swindon

It's easy to read novelists you know but they won't write forever so why not take a risk and try some of the following published. Kate Atkinson - Behind the scenes Denise Goff - Past continuous. atthemuseum. Saga. Storyof Ruby Saga. Bitter-sweet love stories of Mellor and her eccentric family three sisters growing up in Newduring the period from the Coro- castle during the 1940s. Jan Henley - Other summers. Ronation to first World War. Helen Carey -Lavender Road: a Lon- mance set in Wales and Manchesdon street at war. Saga. Family life ter, a story of two sisters divided in Clapham from the outbreak of by love for the wrong man. World War Two to the Blitz. Craig Holden - The river sorrow. Lawrence Carter - Julia Stone. Vic- Contemporary. Dr Lancaster's torian romance. Adventuresome own nightmare past of heroin advicar's daughter Julia elopes with diction returns to haunt him when her husband-to-be. Part of her drug-related victims start turning knows it to be a mistake. up at his hospital. Nicholas Carter- Turncoat's drum. Christopher Lehmann-Haupt - A War/historical. First in a series crooked man. Thriller. A year after relating the history of the English his daughter's death from a drug Civil Wars through the eyes of or- overdose, Senator Schafer's bill to dinary men and women. legalise drug use is opposed by the Norma Curtis - Living it up, living 'crooked man'. it down. Contemporary. Explores Gerald Lynch - Trout stream. Horthe nature of modern relationships, ror exploring the nature of evil in the expectation and the reality in strange and comic ways, as it afan unpredictable world. fects life in sleepy suburbia.

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"People who write poetry for both pleasure and publication need a way of expressing their work," said David. "The Ligden Poetry Society will publish quarterly booklets for members, mainstream poetry publishers, other poetry societies and central libraries." The society is open to anybody over 16 years of age with an interest in poetry. To get things moving, the society is running a poetry competition which closes on 30 June. Poems should be no more than 40 lines and the entries will be

judged by BBC Wiltshire Sound prcsen ter Shirley Ludford and Tim Noble of Greendown School. The winning three entrants will receive prizes of £50, £30 and £20 and the entries will be broadcast on BBC Wiltshire Sound. An anthology of the winning and commended works will be published. To find out more about the Ligden Poetry Society and to enter the poetry competition, send a stamped addressed envelope to David Pike at Ligden Publishers, 34 Lineacre, Grange Park, Swindon SN5 6DA.

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Corinne Glanville reviews two of the films opening at the MGM in February Stargate Kurt Russell and science fiction together in one package. What more could you ask for? This PG certificated film runs for 122 minutes and provides a real evening of entertainment. Stargate tells the story of two very different men who join forces to unravel a mystery which could reveal the origin of civilisation. Tough-minded military man, Colonel Jack O'Neil (Kurt Russell) heads a top secret team investigating a mysterious artifact unearthed at the Pyramids of Giza. Daniel Jackson (James Spader) is a brilliant, but unorthodox Egyptologist whose scientific curiosityclashes with ONeils secret agenda. Jackson identifies the object as a Stargate - a portal to another world. O'Neil leads Jackson and a reconnaissance team through the Stargate, which transports them

The River Wild Two-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep and David Straithairn star as Gail and Tom, a troubled couple who take their young son Roarke (Joseph Mazzello) on a white-water rafting holiday in a last attempt to save their marriage. The journey becomes treacherous when they encounter mysterious strangers Wade (Kevin Bacon) and Terry (John C Reilly). To overcome the villains, Meryl Streep steering herself into especially Wade who at first appears thrilling encounters charming, bright and enticing, Gail millions of light years from earth must draw her family together to where they are stranded on a save their lives as the river carries strange and alien planet. When them perilously towards their final Ra, the enigmatic ruler of this destination. extraordinary world, discovers that She grew up on the river and the doorway to earth can be moved to the city to marry and raise reopened, he devises adeadly plot. a family. Now, once more all her Racing against time, O'Neil and skills and strength are putto the test Jackson must overcome Ra if they as she struggles to protect her loved are to save earth and find a way ones and stay alive. This one will back home. have you on the edge of your seats.

Tim Robbins and Paul Newman in The Hudsucker Proxy, Friday 3 and Saturday 4 February at the Swindon Arts Centre, Old Town

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Bournemouth Sinfonietta Wind Ensemble

4 February Maverick

Thursday 9 February, 2pm Link Centre Arts Studio One hour programme of Gershwin, Mozart, Handel, Brittain and Gounod Tickets £3, Gold Card £1 from Link Centre reception

(PG)

ii February [Baby's Day Out (PG) 1

-4

Supported byWyvern Arts Trust

18 February War of the Buttons (PG)

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Exhibition 100 years of the Picture Postcard - a collection of local postcards providing a fascinating journeythrough differing aspects of life in Swindon and its environs during the last hundred years. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road, Open Mon-Sat 1 Oam 530pm & Sun 2pm - 530pm. Free

Friday 10 February Drama East of Eden by John Steinbeck presented by Snap theatre Company. A powerful drama of the battle between good and evil and the desperate search for a father's love. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.30pm. £6, Student Access £4

Exhibition of publicity posters from the collections of the GWR Museum in Swindon and the Great Western Trust in Didcot. GWR Museum, Faringdon Road, open Mon-Sat 1 Oam - 5pm and Sun 2pm - 5pm. Normal admission charge Wednesday 1 February Lecture Arctic Odyssey presented by Richard Sale and Tony Oliver. Join these respected adventure travellers on an audio-visual journey from Norway to Iceland and discover the wonders, beauty and hardships of those magical landscapes. Arts Centre, 730pm. £4.50 Thursday 2 February Drama The Return of the Native presented by Theatre Royal Bath. An original adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic tale of passion and tragedy. The Arts Centre, 730pm. £6, Student Access £4 Friday 3 February Dance How to Live' Ibsenities presented by Volcano Theatre Company. Town Hall Studios, 8pm. £5 Saturday 4 February Music The Freddy Staff All Star Big Band with Jeff Hooper. Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50

Dance Shared Testament presented by RJC Dance Company featuring singers from Gospel choirs in the region, young dancers from Swindon and the dynamic music of Howard McCrary performing live. Wyvern, 7.45pm. £7.50 Saturday 11 February Comedy Anorak of Fire. The Life and Times of Gus Gascoignes, train-spotter. 'Hilariously and harrowingly funny' The Sunday Times. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 8pm. £6.50 Music Music of the Night featuring the band of the Wiltshire Constabulary and the Kentwood Choir celebrating the 125th anniversary of the British Red Cross. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £7.50

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Sunday 5 February Music VE cel ebration tour featuring The Herb Miller Orchestra and singers. Wyvern,3.3Opm& 7.30pm. £12.50 - £8.50 Monday 6 February Music The Music Club presents Terry Busby - Clarinet, and The Wessex Chamber Players Music The Fureys, Claddagy Road Tour 95, one of Ireland's best loved bands. Wyvern, 8pm. £10

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Tuesday 7 February Comedy Harry Hill. A regular on radio and TV, Harry's popular blend of old-style stand-up gags and modern surrealist quips guarantee a truly funny evening. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 8pm. £8 Comedy Eddie Izzard (pictured right). Wyvern, 8pm, 9-11.50 Wednesday 8 February Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta. Wyvern, 730pm. £1 2.50 - £8.50 Thursday 9 February Music Maddy Prior and The Carnival Band 'The singing in the Bath' tour. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 8pm. £10 Music A tribute to Buddy Holly and the 1950's presented by Bootleg Buddy. Wyvern, 7.45pm. £7.50

Saturday 11 February & Saturday 18 February Workshop Painting in oils with tutor Peter Robinson. Advice and guidance for all levels given at every stage during the two day of this class. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road. £20 Sunday 12 February Music The All Priests Holy Roadshow from Ireland. Wyvern, 8pm. £9 Thursday 16 February Dance Shanti presented by Akshaya Dance Theatre. A unique blend of classical Indian dance styles, weaving together the traditional and non traditional using voice, dance, music and literature. Town Hall Studios, 8pm. £5 Thursday 16 February to Saturday 18 February Drama Tom Stoppard's Hapgood presented by Old Town Theatre Company. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 730pm. £4

February overview Monday 20 February Monday 13 March Exhibition Swindon Women Artists Group Don't Pin Me Down' - an exhibition of 2 dimensional work in mixed media, collage, paint and fabric to celebrate International Women's Day. Arts Centre, Devizes Road

Steve Knightly of Show of Hands Ails Centre 27 February Saturday 18 February Music Richard Thompson (the finest singing songwriting guitarist England has produced) with Danny Thompson. Wyvern,7.3Opm. £9.50 Sunday 19 February Music Max Boyce (picturedbelow) andguests. Wyvern,7.30pm. £9.50 Monday 20 February to Saturday 25 February Drama One Act Play Festival. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.1 5pm. £3, tel 812491 for tickets

Tuesday 21 February Drama Romeo and Juliet presented by Katch 22 Theatre Company. Wyvern, 2pm & 730pm. £5 Wednesday 22 February Workshop Kids Clay Club. A morning working with clay, a follow up session (inc in price) to be arranged so pots etc can be decorated. The Arts Centre, Devizes Road, lOam-l2noon. £5 Children Bodger & Badger from BBC TV. Wyvern, 1 .3Opm. £4 Lecture Beef & Lamb in a stew. An evening of anecdotes, film, question and answer with Ian Botham and Alan Lamb. Wyvern,7.3Opm. £9.50 Thursday 23 February Music The Pasadena Roof Orchestra. A celebration of the songs and dance music of the 1920s and 30s. Wyvern, 8pm. £8.50 Friday 24 February Workshop Space Art- The Final Frontier. Make your own planets, space stencils, alien toys, spaceships, murals and host of other interplanetary delights from exciting materials with Karen Barton. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 1Oam-3pm. £8 Opera The Marriage of Figaro presented by Travelling Opera. Wyvern, 730pm. £14, £12

Film

Saturday 25 February

Swindn.:Fflm Society presents a t Children Teddy Bear's Picnic with Paddington Bear. Mini-train rides, The Arts Centre, Devizes Road. Three types of membership are available: Full £20, Half £15, or Performance £3 plus an additional £3 for each film that you attend. Further Information from 770484 Sunday 5re House of AneIS (15A comedy about the disruptibfl.aU by a visitor ontl'e inhablt3fl: peaceful village Sunday 26 Feuary ShortCuts (18). A look at the lives :*c' afascinating mix of characters in LoS Angel?s. Film starts early at 7pm.

Also of The:.

Centre

Friday 3 & Sator! The Hudsucker Pr de'ightful, imaglntive and frsently hilaU movie. 7.4pm. £3

At the Wyvern Wednesday 1 to Friday 3 February Forrest Gump (12). Wyvern, 745pm. £3.95, £2.95

displays, competitions and prizes for 'most loved teddy.' Railway Museum, Faringdon Road, 11 am 4pm. Adults £2.10, children £1.75 includes goody bag. Tickets in advance from museum or 493189. Opera La Boheme presented by Travelling Opera. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14, £12 Sunday 26 February Demonstration James Byrne, Britain's leading medium demonstrates his electrifying ability to communicate with the spirit world. Wyvern, 730pm. £6 Monday 27 February Music Charles Healey and The Chalumeau Clarinet Quartet. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 745pm. Tuesday 28 February Music Steve Knightley and Phil Beer are Show of Hands. Melodic and narrative English and Celtic traditional music blend with the rhythm of the Americas. Arts Centre, 730pm. £5.50

FLOWERS FOR. VLENT(NE'S Single roses or several gift wrapped Special Valentine Baskets and Arrangements Balloons with a special message or as a surprise in a box

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Tuesday 14th February 7.45pm 10.15pm -

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Do you want to improve your game?

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Skate hire on all sessions 70p Normal session prices apply

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MONDAY Body Conditioning witi Carol Holy Trinity Church,

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WEDNESDAY Body Conditioning with Carol Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park 8pm 9pm

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Beginners with Lee Sports Hall Greendown School Grange Park 8pm 9pm

Workout with Lee DeVere Hotel Shaw Ridge 11am 12noon

FRIDAY The Total Body Workout with Lee Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park 6.30pm 7.30pm

The Total Body Workout with Lee Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park 6.30pm 7.30pm -

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Half term starts here ..! Want some fun this half term? Then look no further than your local action filled Link Centre, packed with activities to suit all, writes Alison Bruce. Registration for Lincoln's Half session' promotion is really what Term Camp commences on Tues- it says. Come along and pay for day 7 February at lOam with camp the lOam 12 noon session during itself running from 20 -24 Febru- half term week and we'll give all ary at the usual times of 9.30am beginners a free 20 minute lesson. 330pm. In addition, we will give you a All the normal fun and action goody bag containing a free pass will be available for 5-12 year olds to one of our exciting 2pm 4pm with the additional swim school disco sessions. and freestyle sessions providing Whether you're after skating, even the most active child with swimming, fitness or fun, we will plenty to do. ensure you have a good time. In the rink we will be offering a Contact Main Reception now for warm welcome, especially to all details of any these activities. Tel: beginners. Our 'free lesson, free (01793) 871212. -

Sociable Indoor Bowling Fred Watts writes If you enjoy a game of bowls or would like to learn in a friendly atmosphere, then come along to Greendown School on Sundays. Wear casual dress and bring a pair of flat shoes to protect the 'green'. Bowls are available to use, and the cost of a two hour session is £1. Sessions begin at 9.30am. All ages are welcome. If you require any further information phone on 873722.

Real men do aerobics! Says Lee Hogan of Bodies by Design As an old Commonwealian, it was not so much drummed into me as stamped on my chest that boys who were to become real men played rugby. Football and cricket came a poor second and third.

No matter how good or bad you were at these sports your chances of rising in the estimation of our PE master was virtually nil unless you had sustained a cauliflower modest men into celebrities) of ear, a broken limb or had been West Swindon, are just a few of the bloodied in a tackle with someone many men who work-out regutwice your size. larly and appreciate what aerobics Of course, long before I reached can do for their fitness and health. my senior school it was clear that Apart from the fear of being lamthere was a lot of difference in the pooned by friends and colleagues, games boys and girls played. If many men believe they need the boys wanted to avoid that most combined foot workof Fred Astaire hurtful of labels, a sissy, you had and John Travolta to do an aerobic to participate in violent games such session without becoming an emas British bulldog and soldiers or barrassing spectacle. Not so guys. bundle, where a weighty human Even the most foot-perfect expopyramid would be formed by 20 or nent has had to start somewhere 30 boys piling on top of the smalland anyway, it's not like missing a est and weakest; a very strange penalty! and very dangerous game, and probably something to do with Far from being sissy, a good aeromale bonding. bic class will improve your stamina, strength, flexibility and Most aerobic instructors are coordination, a fact not lost on men women, most of those who take who take their sport seriously. part are women, but there is an Whether your game Is football, ever increasing number of men cricket, tennis or even rugby, you who have the self-confidence not can do no better than include an to care what other men might say. aerobic session as part of your Clive, Roger, Nick, Stewart, Bob training. If you're still not conand Graham (surnames withheld vinced, why not give it a try if because I don't want to turn these you're man enough! -

The Link Magazine. February 1995

Tennis for all Did you know that anyone can play tennis at the Delta Indoor Tennis Centre? There is no membership charge and bookings are made on a casual basis, so no long term commitment is necessary. Why not give tennis a go at one of the Rec sessions? Simply turn up and play for £2.40 (equipment provided) Monday 9.30- 11.30 (mixed) Tuesday 9.30- 11.30 Ladies* 1.30 - 3.30 Mons Wecnesday 9.30-1.30 Evergreens (fortheyoungatheart!) Thursday 9.30- 11.30 Ladies*

Top martial arts expert visits club Seventh Dan black belt Professor Terry Parker of the Jikishin Jujitsu organisation attended a day seminar to instruct 80 members of the Swindon Ju-Jitsu Club at Greendown on 15 January. Also attending was sports jitsu world champion 7th Dan Mike Player. Below: Sensei Parker demonstrates a hold to Richard Corbin and John Synalski

Friday

9.30-11.30 Evergreens * Creche available For the budding Agassis out there, Delta's short tennis courses are a perfect way of getting started. Gold Card rates are available, so what are you waiting for? Take to tennis in 1995. For further details contact Delta Tennis Centre on 871111.

Value yourself says Freshbrook mum Maggie Roberts, a mother from Freshbrook with personal experience of skin cancer, is making an appeal to readers to check themselves for the disease- even during the winter months. Maggie's nineteen year old son Mark died two years ago from skin cancer, barely eight months after he discovered a mole on his back had started to change. "He could not understand it was happening, his friends could not believe it; it was just a mole on his back, he'd always had it," said Maggie. "The melanoma was very aggressive and surgery did not check its spread." Maggie, a nurse and trained counsellor, wants people to take more care of themselves by checking themselves over and being aware of any changes taking place. "Wc live such hectic lives nowaday, that we might not notice charges going on; it might be a sligr.tly odd sensation when Putting on a shirt, or a sore spot. Cancer can be treated if caught eariv enough, but it means you have to be aware of yourself and the ones you love. "We value our possessions and insure our cars and property against damage; it's strange we don't take more care of ourselves." In the UK around 34,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. The most dangerous is malignant melanoma and is nearly twice as common in women as in men. It is one of the most common cancers for under 35s.

Learn Self Defence at Swindon Ju-Jitsu Club Greendown School, Grange Park Learn to defend yourself under the supervision and expertise of professional registered BJJA (GB) instructors * Modern & traditional weaponry taught * Improve your awareness/ confidence & fitness * One of the most practical & effective defence systems around * Specialised private self-defence classes available * Open to men, women & children of all ages, no previous experience required * Specialised classes for the disabled * Learn, understand & practice self-defence in a friendly & encouraging atmosphere Mondays Juniors 6.45- 745pm & Thursday Seniors 8pm - 930pm Fridays Juniors 730pm - 830pm Seniors 730pm - 10pm £2 per session Seniors £1.50 per session Juniors Contact Baj, 2nd Dan on 642447 Steve, 2nd Dan on 872445

YOUR LOCAL WINDOW & DOOR itEl'AI it SERVICE * All types of double glazing repaired * Handles & hinges fixed * Broken or misted glass units replaced * Leaks, draughts fixed * Door locks replaced * Patio doors repaired * Wheels replaced * Additional security locks fitted * Insurance quotes provided All work fully guaranteed * Private & commercial

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Massage message to RSI sufferers A physiologist is sending a massage message to sufferers of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI): it can be controlled. An increasing number of people with a wide range of skills and a number of different trades suffer from damage to arm muscles, tendons and ligaments caused by repeated actions at work. Claims for damage have been large, so have some of the out of court payments. However, for every massive settlement, there are thousands who do not receive anything. Hayden Wick based physiologist Russell Jenkins, a member of the London & Counties Society of Physiologists, says that remedial massage of muscles, tendons and ligaments can check RSI and help stop the condition developing into a job threatening problem. "As with so many things, prevention and maintenance through early treatment is more likely to be successful in preventing further damage. People who start feeling uncomfortable should also think about reorganising their desks or workstations from time to time so that different muscles groups are used." Russell also provides remedial massage for back disorders, stress relief, muscular and joint problems, and sports injuries. He can be contacted on 496547.

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The Link Magazine• February 1995

Duke's award calls youth for adventure and commitment Where can young people get a combination of excitement, challenge, team work and Individual pursuit without having to be physically brilliant or academically excellent?

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, which is open to all young people aged 14 to 25, provides opportunity for personal achievement, community and social involvement, adventure and wideningof leisure interests. No special academic abilities or physical skills are required. All that is required is effort and staying power. There are three levels to the award and within each youngsters have to pursue a interest, undertake a service to the community, a physical activity and an expedition. The range of activities is huge and is designed to give young people the widest scope to achieve success. "The scheme helps young people to set challenges for themselves and then work out how to achieve them," says Chris Lowthian, DofE spokesman in Thamesdown. "Those who take part are given support all along the way so that

and North Swindon is at Greendown School. Youngsters do not have to attend the school to take part in the Wednesday evening sessions between 6pm and 8pm coordinated by teachers Bob Greendown DofE Centre coordinators Linnegar and Nick Stenning. Bob Linnegar and Nick Stenning Thirteen members of the Greendown Centre achieved their bronze award last year and twelve have moved onto silver. Eachcompleted fifteen hours of community service such as working with elderly people, helping at an after school club or taking a football referees course. Interests included model making, music and dress making They also spent a night under canvas on a 24km trek across the Wiltshire Downs. A group from Swindon carried out their expedition in Kenya as part of their Gold award. There are presently 25 people from five different secondary schools at the Greendown Centre. Bob and Nick say that newcomers

they receive guidance, advice, encouragement and help with planning when group activities are involved." The nearest DofE Centre to West

who join in February will have time to complete many aspects of the bronze award and may even be able to complete the expedition to achieve the award by the summer. Messages can be left for them at Greendown on 874224 at anytime.

Fools look for others Junior Fools, a group which promotes play activities for children aged 6 to 14 with an emphasis on the environment, is looking for more adults to help develop play projects during 1995. Last year an environmental playday at Lower Shaw Farm gave children the chance to build dens, make pottery, jewellery and biscuits, and look after farm animals. Full support is given to volunteers by the Thamesdown Council Play Service. To find out more, call Teresa Quinn on 493618.

?'& Vaknthi'& Vay in Febntwj - al tim& t& C eeninçp out with' mean&jaw l&e' at an& ftfi& eaxelknt retaurcu below Ria1e' naw 5'O

The Moormead Country Hotel Wroughton, Swindon Tel: (0793) 814744 "The Food is Truly Excellent, The Service Truly Great, With Masquerade To Serenade, What More Romantic Date?

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Excellent selection of starters, main courses and desserts Parties of 100 plus catered for Alternatively, choose your meal from over 100 different dishes, all carefully prepared using authentic Chinese ingredients and cooking methods and served in elegant surroundings by our welcoming and courteous staff.

Tel: (079{)616880/ 527343 169 - 173 Faringdon Road Swindon Ample private car park at rear

The Link Magazine• February 1995 17

New youth worker to coordinate 14+ services Following a reorganisation of youth work services in the West Swindon area, Wiltshire County have appointed Jane Kirk, pictured below, as the team leader, to be based at Greendown School. Jane hails from North Yorkshire but was most recently responsible for Purton and Cricklade youth centres. Coordinating an effective reJane Kirk

sponse to the needs of young people across West Swindon attracted her to the new post. "The number ofyoung people in the area is large. They have different demands; the challenge is to create activities and services which satisfy them. "With a concentration of attractions like ice skating, bowling and the cinema which all cost money. It's frustrating for young people if they can't afford these facilities. "I'd like to see more young people getting involved in setting up their own groups to pursue their own interests. Youth workers are here to help get things started, encourage and provide advice when needed." There's always a need for adult volunteers youth workers though there are presently two vacancies for part time staff. To contactJane, call her on 877983.

Are those Xmas valuables secure? Let me take this opportunity to wish you all a happy New Year and ask if you have taken adequate measures to make those expensive Christmas presents safe writes Sergeant Terry Cuss of Swindon Police. Record serial numbers and/or m o s It 1 y take photographs of distinctive committed items. Buy a good lock for new in the late bicycles and remember that for afternoon some insurance policies you may or early have to individually specify ex- evening. pensive items to make sure that Some artheir full value is covered, rests have As to local crime the Christmas been made period seems to have been rela- andenquirtivoly quiet. The most noticeable ies are ontrend was a number of burglaries going. at new houses or houses under construction. In the period 17 Westlea HO nearly ready November to 13 December, on six The planned move into Westlea separate occasions, a number of Police Station is now imminent. building sites in Grange Park were The furniture is arriving and untargets and fittings or electrical less there is any unforeseen delay equipment were stolen. Unless the North Sub-Division will move those responsible were very local to Westlea in early February and a van would have been necessary. police cover of West Swindon will Can you help? then operate from there. I will give you further details of In the six weeks up to Christmas there were 13 burglaries from es- the enquiries office, opening times tablished houses in Grange Park, and telephone number next time.

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Minimum £1000 part-exchange on the vehicles below 1994 L ASTRA 1.7 GLS Turbo Diesel Estate, satin red metallic, 5 dr E12995 1994 L ASTRA 1.4 Club 82PS Limited Edition Estate, carib blue met £10995 1993 K CAVALIER 1.7 GLS Turbo Diesel, smoke grey met, 5 dr hatch £10995 1991 J CARLTON 2.61 CDX, 4 dr, saloon, mistral grey, 13,000m £11995 1991 J ASTRA 1.6 L, glacier white, I owner, 42,000m, 5 dr, hatch £5995 1991 J ASTRA 1.6 Merit, Automatic, PAS, 3 dr, hatch, white, 1 owner £5695 1991 H ASTRA 1.6 LX, 5 dr, hatch, flame red, I owner, 37,000m, £5995 1990 H ASTRA 1.6 L, 5 dr, hatch, silver £5595 1990 G ASTRA 1.4 L, 5 dr, hatch, mexico red, 1 owner, 50,000m £4995

Part-exChanee vehicles must have 3 month MOT 1994 M ASTRA 1.4 LSI, 4 dr saloon, nautilus, demonstrator. 95 model POA 1994 M CORSA 1.4 LSI, 5 dr, hatch, atlantic blue, demonstrator POA 1994 M 95 Spec CAVALIER 2.0 GLS, 16v, paler blue, demo, 5 dr, hatch £14995 1994 L OMEGA 2.5 V6 CDI, smoke grey, demonstrator, air cond, 4 dr £20995 1994 L CAVALIER 2.0 CDI, 5 dr hatch, rembrandt silver, 8,1 00m £11995 1994 L CAVALIER 2.0 GLS, 4 dr saloon, nautilus, 5,1 00m £9995 1994 L CALIBRA 2.0 8v Coupe, spectral blue metallic, 2 owners, 2 dr £14495 1994 L CORSA 1.4 LSI, Automatic, 3 dr hatch, rainbow blue, 10,000m £7495 1994 L CORSA 1.2 LSI, 3 dr hatch, rainbow blue, 9,800m £6995 1994 L CORSA 1.4 LSI, 5 dr hatch, white, 2 year Network 0 Warranty £6995 1993 L CARLTON 2.0 CDXI Estate Auto, met emerald green, 19,80Cm £1 4995 1993 L CAVALIER 1.8 GLS Automatic, hatch, smoke grey, 4,000m £9995 1993 L ASTRA 1.4 LSI, Estate, caribic blue, 14,000m, 5 dr £9795 1993 L ASTRA 1.7 Diesel Estate, 5 dr, mistral grey, I owner, 14,000m £8995 1993 L ROVER Metro 1.4 SI, 5 dr, hatch, BR green, 1 owner, 12,000m £6995 1993 L CORSA 1.21 LS, aqua marine, I owner, 15,000m, 3 dr, hatch £6495 1993 L CORSA 1.5 Diesel, 3 dr, hatch, glacier while, I owner, 7,500m £6495 1993 K VAUXHALL Fronters 2.41 Estate, 5 dr, satin red metallic, bull bars, steps, alloys, alarm, rear lamp guards £13995 1993 K VAUXHALL Frontera 2.3 Turbo Diesel Estate, satin red, bull bars, steps, alloys, 28,000m, driving/fog lamps rear lamp guards, 5 dr £1 4995 1993 K ASTRA 1.6 GLSI, 5 dr, hatch, flame red. 1 owner, 24,000m, £8995 1993 K CAVALIER 1.6 LSI Cat, glacier white, 9,500m, 5 dr, hatch £8495 1993 K CITROEN AX 11 Echo, met blue, 1 owner, 8,800m 5 dr, hatch £5995 1993 K ASTRA 1.6 SI, 5 dr, hatch, flame red, 1 owner, 7,000m, £8495 1992 K ASTRA 1.6 GLS, Estate, satin red met, 15,0001 owner. 5 dr £8995 1992 K ASTRA 1.6 CDI, 4 dr, saloon, met grey, I owner, 20,000m £8495 1992 K VW Golf 1.4 CL, 3 dr, hatch, mot grey, 1 owner, 6,900m £7495 1992 K ASTRA 1.4 LS, 5 dr, cosmos blue. 1 owner, 34,000m £7395 1992 K ASTRA 1.6 CDI, 5 dr, hatch, met caribi blue, 1 owner, I 1,000m POA 1992 K CAVALIER 1.6 L, Sdr, hatch, glacier white, 2 owners £6495 1992 J CALIBRA 2.0 8V Automatic Coupe, I owner, glacier white, 44.000m, PAS, ABS braking, alarm, alloys, e/sunroof, c/locking 2 dr £9795 1991 J NOVA 1.2 Lux, 4 dr, saloon, glacier white, 18.000m POA 1991 J ASTRA 1.4 CDI, 4 dr, hatch, new shape, caribic blue metallic, I owner, 21,000m £7395 1991 J CAVALIER 1.6 L, nordic blue, 1 owner, 32,000m, PAS, 5 dr hatch £6695 1991 J ASTRA 1.4 L, mexico red, 1 owner. 24,000m, 5 dr, hatch £6495 1991 J ASTRA 1.6 L, flame red, 1 owner, 16,00,5 dr, hatch £6995 1991 J FORD Escort 1.4 Quartz, white, 2 owners, 27,000m, 3dr, hatch £5995 1991 J ASTRA 1.6 Automatic, PAS, flame red. 1 owner, 35,000m, 3 dr E5695 1991 J NOVA 1.4 SR. 3 dr, hatch, 1 owner, glacier white £5395 1991 J NOVA .2 Lux. 4 dr, saloon, glacier white. I owner, 18,000m, £5395 1991 H VOLVO 940 OLE EState, 5 dr, 45,000m, metallic red £10995 1991 H CAVALIER 2.0 CU, glacier white, 2 owners, 36,000m, 5 dr, hatch £7695 1991 H ASTRA 1.4 CL, glacier white, 1 owner. 25,000m, 5 dr, hatch £6495 1991 H CAVALIER 2.0 U, 4 dr, saloon, mistral grey. 28,000m £5995 1991 H RENAULT 19 Chamade Automatic, 4 dr, met blue, 41,000m £4995 1991 H NOVA 1.2 Merit, glacier white, 30,000m, I owner, 3 dr, hatch £4475 1990 H RENAULT 212.0 GTX Savannah CTX Estate, 5 dr, met grey, 7 Seats, 2 owners £5995 1990 U ASTRA 1.4 LX, ruby red, 31,000m, 5 dr, hatch £5695 1990 H ASTRA 1,6, metallic silver, 42,000m, 5 dr, hatch £5595 1990 U ASTRA 1.4 LX, 5 dr, hatch, neptune blue metallic, 2 owners £5495 1990 C ASTRA Belmont 1.4 L, 4 dr saloon, flame red, 2 owners, 22,000mE4995 19900 ASTRA 1.8 CDI, 5 dr, hatch, flame red, PAS, c/locking, a/windows, fit slide sunroof £5495

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The Link Magazine. February 1995

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West Swindon Townswomen's Guild Doreen Shaw writes Our programme for 1995 is both eventful and interesting with talks on history, travel, needlework and archaeology to name but a few; subjects to stimulate us into thinkingand talldngaboutwhatwehave just heard. We also have a full programme

of social events outside our monthly meetings. Ladies, if you are free on the 2nd Thursday each month between 2pm and 4pm why not give me a ring on 693707 orStevie on 873567. We will be happy to tell you all about the Guild.

First signs of spring in Lydiard Country Park Steve Upton, Senior Ranger writes There was no doubting that the New Yearwas upon us atLydiard, with the first snowdrops in flower on New Year's Day. Our Boxing Day Woozel Hunt was enjoyed by over 100 people, with a particularly evasiveWoozel avoiding the hounds. An especially fine turn out of old jokes were well appreciated by everyone attending. Sunday 5Februaiy will see members of the Lydiard Ranger team assisting at the mass Tree Plant at ShawTip. Between lOam and 4pm there is a chance to plant your own tree and help create a new 100 acre woodland and to join in the Chinese New Year festivities. On Wednesday 22 February from lOam - 1pm the Wiltshire Trust for Nature Conservation will

be holding a WATCH Open Day at Lydiard. There will be a wide variety of activities for children and everyone is welcome. The Spring and Summer edition of the Parks and Countryside Events programme will be available in early March, giving details of events throughout the Borough. Copies will be available from the Visitor Centre and we look forward to seeing a good attendance on all our guided walks and children and family activities. On Sunday 12 March at 2pm Lydiard hosts an event titled Maps Made Easy. An introduction to using Ordnance Survey maps to help enjoy the countryside, this event is suitable for beginners and those wishing to develop their skills.

Lydiard as a housing estate: help needed

HK 97,,f CHINESE TAKE-AWAY West Swindon Centre

Telephone orders welcome Opening Hours (Open Bank Holidays) (Open Bank Holiday) Monday - Saturday 12noon - 2pm (Sunday lunch closed) Monday - Sunday 5pm - 11pm

Tel: 886871

Sarah Finch-Crisp describes events and activities at the Lydiard House in February, March and the summer Friday 10 February, 11am & Thursday 9 March, 2.30pm Guided tours of the state rooms Traditionally these tours have been held in the afternoon. However some of you have rightly pointed out this precludes parents who need to pick up young children from school. In future the State Room tours will be held alternatively in the morning and afternoon. There is no need to book, just turn up on the day. Normal admission only (50p), tour is free. Saturday 18 February to Sunday 26 February Children's halfterm holiday activities: Buster Burglar and the young detectives Using your detectives kills join this intriguing investigation and discover whether Buster Burglar really did intend to carry away Lydiard's treasured antiques. Free magnifying glasses awarded to all budding detectives. This activity is aimed at children but experience shows that accompanying adults will become equally involved. The activity runs throughout normal openinghours, cost per child £1, (includes normal admission charge).

Tuesday 7 March, 7.3Opm Guided tour of the attics Exploring the old servants quarters by torchlight has become one of our most popular activities. Tickets do sell fast and you are recommended to purchase your place on the tour well in advance. Tickets will be available from the House or Leisure Services reception in the Civic Offices in Euclid Street from 1 February. Cost £4, includes coffee and biscuits. 'The Lost Estate': your help is needed for the Summer Exhibition During the course of our 1994 Summer Exhibition 'Lydiard Park The WarYears', many people inquired about the use of the Lydiard Park Camp as housing in the 1950s. Though no trace of the camp now remains, local people remember the Nissan huts which provided homes for many young families after the war. Are you one of these people? If you have any recollections of the camp either as a resident or visitor please do contact me at Lydiard House on 770401. As last year, this year's exhibition will be built around your memories.

The Link Magazine • February 1995

Exchanging 9 year olds Imagine yourchild learning to speak fluent French by the age often. Could you see yourchild living in France and becoming a bilingual European before he or she goes to secondary school? Five Swindon children have taken part in six month exchanges with French families, arranged by an organisation called En Famille. The children, all aged 9 or 10, attended French schools and learnt French ways by becoming a member of a French family. In turn the children welcomed a new French brother or sister into their family home for six months. Nearly 400 children across Britain have taken part in the exchanges over the last twelve years. Children are highly adaptable at around nine years, and it's an ideal time to learn another language. They pick up vocabulary,

grammar and of course the accent very quickly. Not only do the children return speaking fluent French, they even forget to how to speak English because they become so totally immersed in French. But they quickly remember their own language once they get home and easily slip back into school studies. They willhave discovered a whole new way of living and will have gained a great deal of confidence. Letting a child go away for a six month exchange is a drastic way of introducing her or him to another language and being a parent to an extra child can be quite a strain.

New nursery to give French for children children headstart and exam entrants The Mayor of Thamesdown David Cia holm paid a visit to West Swindon's new nursery at the Delta Business Park on 17 January.

Tom Flynn with Mayor David Clahoim and Sheila Cracknell Headstarts Educational Nursery is managed by ex-Toothill Primary School teacher Sheila Cracknell who said the emphasis is on quality childcare and positive play experience based on an education programme linked to the national curriculum. There are places for fifty-eight pre-school children from the ages of three months to five years. Headstarts is working closely with the Delta Tennis Centre next door who will give short tennis lessons for older children. The nursery is open between 8am and 6pm. Children can attend all day or for individual sessions. To find out more, call Headstarts on 877779.

A Toothill based French teacher is looking for teenagers who want to improve their French before they take their GCSE. Pascal Watson, who has taught French up to GCSE level since she moved to England from her native Belgium, offers individual or group tuition at modest cost. For older children, she runs a group for fifteen year olds with emphasis on conversation and assistance with grammar. Another group of 12 and 13 year olds will work on conversation and vocabulary. Pascal also caters for children who want to start learning French before they go to secondary school. Learning a second language is so important nowadays and getting the basics as early as possible is essential. She currently runs small groups with between 8 and 15 children in Purton and West Swindon. There is no membership fee or charges for learning material, and the sessions cots £2 an hour. Pascal says, "It's so important for children to start learning a language early. They pick up the words, phrases and the accent more easily. It gives them confidence before they go on to secondary school when they are starting to get a bit shy." Children in Pascal's group are working on the 'Lion King' to be presented to parents in July, all in French, naturellement. Parents who want their child to start French with Pascal, or to join her exam preparation group, should call her on 870549.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK,

CALL 872282

But If a child likes the idea and parents are tolerant, open minded and can plan for another person in the family, the long term benefits of learning French and gaining cultural awareness are huge. To find out more about En Famille exchanges, contact Ruth or Roger Ogle on 872282. • For some reason, there are more French boys than girls who want to exchange, and more British girls than boys. Are there any boys who want to take part?

ROTTEN WOOD? PEELING PAINT? DRIPPING GUTTERS?

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FAMILY HOMES NEEDED To accommodate French students aged 13 to 15 for short stays (4 nights) in March and April. For details, call 874717

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The Link Magazine. February 1995

Protect your bike with a Lions stamp

4 4

IC CX171E1 1E9Cf ectc Way, Sparcells, West Swhon N

(

0 4 . ~ P,

v• -WAIF

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR 4 !!. VfiLENT(NE'S 4 N

Is your bicycle adequately protected? Locks are important, but if your bikeis stolen an easy way of identification is needed to speed its return if found. Members of the West Swindon Lions Club will be postcode stamping bikes free of charge outside Toothill Community Centre on Saturday 18 February between 10am and 1pm. Take your bike along to improve the security on your wheels and visit the Lions Nearly New sale in the centre at the same time.

New support for under 5s Toddler and playgroups in West Swindon are now receiving support from Debrah Tillotson from Shaw who takes over from Moira Webster, following a reorganisation of fieldworkers by the

4 4 4

Enjoy some of the best Chinese cuisine in Swindon with the one you love at our beautiful lakeside setting.

4 4

Twins Support Group

Tootleabrook WI

1St Monday of the month, 9.30am -11 .30am at West Swindon Health Centre .3rd Thursday of the month, 1 .3Opm 3.30pm in the Playgroup Room at the Link Centre.

June Bradley reports For our Christmas meeting we decorated the Community Room at Toothill School, laid the table with pretty cloths, candles and crackers, ready for a food and drinks quiz. We were served ten different foods from crisps, dips, meats to fruit, nuts and drinks and had to try to identify all the different flavours. The tastings were so interesting and provoked so many differing opinions and discussions that the evening just flew and we had to rush through the mince pies and wine to tidy up and let the caretaker lock up. The whole evening, the organising, shopping, preparation and serving was done by just two committee members. Thank you very much Jean and Mandy, it was a super evening. In January we celebrate our 12th birthday with an outing to the BristoiHippodrome fora performance of Pickwick with Harry Seacombe. The next meeting, on 15 February will be our AGM. We meet on the third Wednesday of every month in the Community Room at Toothill School at 7.30pm. For further information please phone 495520.

£1 to join and 50p per session. Twin mums-to-be welcome For further details contact 871534, 876272 or 870028

W Book now for

Vacancies at Playmates Parent and Toddler Group

our Valentine's

four course meal.

Tel: 877888

Committee member, Ann Edwards writes We are a very friendly group of mothers and toddlers who meet every Tuesday, 1.45pm 3.45pm in the Len Hobbs Suite, Greendown School, Grange Park. There is an initial membership fee of £1 plus 70p per family per week. We offer a supervised activity every week and there are lots of toys to share. We end each week with a sing song. Your first visit is free, so why not come along to see for yourself just how friendly we really are. We look forward to welcoming some new members to our group very soon.

Large parties & corporate clients welcome

Private dining facilities available

TAKEAWAY SERVICE AVAILABLE 0

Thamesdown Pre-School Playgroups Association. Kim Poulton from Woodhall Park continues to work with groups in Haydon Wick. Fieldworkers provide advice and assistance to the volunteers who run toddler and playgroups, who are faced with running committees and employing staff to provide a stimulating environment for pro-school children to learn in. They also give advice and training to the staff in playgroups. • A meeting to set up a new playgroup at the Link Centre will be held in March. • Toothill Tots Playgroup which meets atToothill Community Centre has vacancies for 3 to 5 year olds, Monday toThursday,9.15pm to 12noon. Telephone Carol Rose on 611781 for more information. Left: Debrah Tillotson and Moire Webster

The Link Magazine' February 1995

Special baby care: support for parents A new group for parents whose children have spent time in special baby care units has been set up in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. SProGS - Special Parents Group Support - was set up with the help of Health Visitors and has been meeting in homes since last summer. Now the core group is asking parents with newborns and small Meirbers ofSProcSfrom front, Jackie Ponniah with Joshua (14 weeks early), left, Helen Bye and Amy (13 weeks early), Melanie Mallek with Bethany (10 weeks early), back, Kristian ne with Roan (10 weeks early)

babies who have had experience with special baby care to join. Joint organiser Melanie Mallek said that the experience of having a baby looked after in the special care baby unit is often traumatic. "It's difficult for people to understand the feelings of parents who have to come home and leave their baby in hospitaL A prematurebirth is a shock and then relying on medical staff and technology is very stressful. "Many parents need somewhere to share their experiences and get support and friendship. SProGS also gives somewhere for parents of newborns to meet those whose babies are a bit older." The group is open to any parent whose baby has been in special care, whether for one night or several weeks. To find out more about SProGS, call the Community Suite on 871212 ext 261. â€˘ Mums who attend the postnatal session at the West Swindon Health Centre on 17 February, 10.30am will find out how aromatherapy and massage can help them and their babies. Kathie Lowe will demonstrate how to relieve common problems like colic, colds, asthma, teething, irritability and sore breasts using natural methods.

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FIAIRIDESIGN 123 Cricklade Rd, Gorse Hill, Swindon. Tel: 01793 616063 APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ANY DAY UNTIL 9.00PM (FREE PARKINGI

ARE YOU A WORKING PARENT? ,,.,The Big Adventure give you peace of mind The Big Adventure After School Club Is open between 3pm and 6pm throughout the week for children aged 5 to 11 In the Len Hobbs Suite at Greendown Community School. We provide: * Qualified staff * Quality care * A varied activity programme * Light snacks and refreshment (eA op

To find out more and to book a place, phone Tracey Bailey on (0793) 875992 for a Big Adventure information pack

- RIDGEWAY PRESCHOOL Our purpose 4lVed and designed Pre-School offers quality education and professional childcare between 8am and 6pm every weekday, 50 weeks per years. (A range of schedules available) RIDGEWAY PRE-SCHOOL INVERARY ROAD, WROUGHTON SWINDON

First Floor, 186 - 187 Victoria Road Swindon (above house of Flowers) Swindon 421068 or 875088

TEL: (01793) 845572 An Asquith Court Pre-School

The Link Magazines February 1995

Vacancies

Relief driver needed for lunch club Freshbrook Lunch Club which meets in Freshbrook Community Centre every Friday celebrated its first birthday in January. The club has had a successful year and now has 38 members from across West Swindon. Door to door transport is provided for members who find it difficult to get around. There is a regular driver but the group are in urgent need of a relief driver to cover for holidays, sickness etc. The mini-bus is hired from Community Transport and any poten-

tial drivers would be required to take a short, free test to demonstrate their abilities to transport passengers safely. If any reader can spare a few hours occasionally to help out with transporting members or if anyone would like to help the volunteers serving meals please contact Pam Pixton, tel 871212 ext 261, who would be pleased to provide more information. More help is always welcome and volunteering with the club can be good fun and very rewarding.

SWINDON SOFT WATER CENTRE Makes water softening simple No. 1 Best selling water softener in the UK

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The worlds most advanced fully automatic non-electric meter-controlled s stem Showroom at 260 Ferndale Road, Swindon Call BRIAN COX on SWINDON 527172

GAS BOILER SERVICE £25 Inc vat Time of day appointment

REMOVALS Man with a van, Who gives the best price & service he can! Full house removals or single items

Repairs & breakdowns 24hr service Tel: 522907 PG -lennion & Co. Ltd 47 - 48 Whitehead St. Swindon CCRGI Registered

7ce Call Andy for immediate response Tel: 0793 -695613 24 hour service Mob: 0836 - 204105 House clearance -Storage also undertaken

Two part-time youth workers for Greendown Youth Centre £5.41 per hour unqualified 26.11 per hour qualified Interested in working with young people? Can you offer skills in sports or arts? Then why not join our friendly team at Greendown. We are looking for enthusiasm and reliability. The new workers would be required to initially work one three hour session per week (to be negotiated). The Centre is open 7.30pm to 1 0.30pm, Monday to Thursday. Further details and an application form from Jane Kirk, Team Leader (West Swindon), Greendown Youth Centre, Greendown School, Grange Park Way, Swindon SN5 6HN. Tel: (0793) 877983 moms or eves Sessional Playworker wanted for 18 weeks at Toothill Junior Club 3 hours per week, £4 per hour. Someone with enthusiasm and experience to organise activities for children, 7-11 years old on Thursday evenings, 7pm - 9pm. For application form, please contact Community Suite, Link Centre on 871212 ext 261. Closing date: 13 February.

S.C'S BOOK-KEEPING SERVICE Small Business Book-keeping, Wages, V.A.T. & Final Accounts

Tel: (0793) 873483 I.A.B. Registered

HOTPOINT/HOOVER Apple Macintosh SE computer. 4mb memory, 40mb hard drive, keyboard, mouse. £250. Tel: 872282 Fridge Freezer. Phillips upright, 11 cu. It. approx. Good cond. £50. Tel: 874034 Frost-free LEC larder fridge, 4ft high, very good condition, £50. Tel: 878334 Denby (Memories) tea set. 6 cups & saucers, teapot, milk jug, sugar basin, 3 mugs. £40 ono. Tell- 695091 eves. Saga Game Gear games - Super Kick Off and The Terminator, as new £15 for two or £10 each, no offers. Tel: 725842 Pastel cosytoes, £4, white cot blanket, £3.50, pastel pram blanket, £2.50, turquoise snow suit age 12 months, suit boy or girl, £5, all vgc. Tel: 876436 Tandem pushchair, excellent condition, swivel wheels, own hood, £60, double buggy, £25, Brilax Carry Tot car seat. £15. Tel: 875665 (Middleleaze) Silvercross pram coach built style grey with red trim, excellent condition, £60. Tel: 871606 (Nine Elms) Boys Raleigh bicycle suit 5-8yrs, £30. Ladies Raleigh 5-speed, rear rack, mud flaps and reflectors, £40. Both good condition. 31 Carey Close, Grange Park

Internal doors, white gloss, £5, buyer must collect. Tel: 874767 German wall unit 51t lOins, display cabinet, cocktail cabinet, cupboard, £100 ono. Tel: 872503 (Peatmoor) Britax Europa pushchair and accessories, £115 ovno. 3-in-1 highchair, £18, cot duvet, covers and curtains, nappy stacker, grey cosytoes, all in exc condition, various prices. Tel: 881079 (Sparcells) Canon 'Snappy 35mm camera, brand new, still in box, unwanted gift, £35 ono. Tel: 873179 (Middleleaze) Double glazed patio doors with timber frames, £100. Tel: 874990 (Shaw) Welder flex 110 home gym vgc (see

• Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, 11 helpful service, call J. Martin Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

Clerk to the Governors, Freshbrook Primary School 161 hours a year at £4.16 per hour The post would suit a retired person or a person with some free time during the day and an ability to attend approximately 16 evening meetings a year. Duties: Arranging, attending and minuting evening meetings and providing general clerical assistance to the Governing body. Good organisation, ability to handle confidential material,typing or word processing skills are essential. Use of a word processor is available at the school (training can be given). For an application form, further details and ajob description please contact the school. Closing date: 6 February 1995. Crossing Patrol Personoutside Freshbrook School gates, Worsley Road 5 hours 25 minutes per week £3.76 per hour Times of work: 8.30am - 9.05am, 2.55pm - 3.25pm The post involves ensuring the safe crossing of children to and from school across Worsley Road. Training is available to the successful applicant. For an application form or further details please contact the school. Closing date for applications: 6 February 1995.

Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

Ladies and Children's Clothes and Soft Furnishings made to order Alterations undertaken Telephone Debbie on 881427

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads 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.

no. 10, page 455 Argos catalogue) £50.

Three child's bikes, phone for details. Tel: 874085

Wanted Babysitter, over 14 years, girl in

Tel:

Middleleaze or Shaw area, nice clean home, Iwo children under 6, odd nights.

Tel: 875665 'Forever Friends' single quilt covers and curtains. Tel: 870751

Name & Address (not for publication)

LocalLives Going to France - more like crossing a county boundary Instead of working between Christmas and New Year to produce a January edition of The Link, publishers Roger and Ruth Ogle took a short break with their children Rosemary and Alexander via the channel tunnel. Visiting 'the Continent' using Le Shuttle gives a new experience to visiting another country. That strip of North Sea which separates us from France is both a physical and mental barrier for us British, or dare I say it the English. But when you don't see the sea which cuts us off from them over there and has provided us with our natural defences for so many hundreds of years, crossing the divide to Europe is now easy and quite natural.

23 Parish of West Swindon & The Lydlards Anglican, Baptist, Methodist, URC All Saints, L. Millicent (1 0.3Oam) (for the village) &

Holy Trinity, Shaw (1O.3Oam) Rev. Andrew Hetherington 770568 St. Mary's, L.Tregoze (10.30am) (for Freshbrook & Grange Park) Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Toothill Church (10.45am) Rev. George Gibson 692620

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pni Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

Our aim was a visit to the grave of a great uncle who fell in Flanders followed by a brief history (also free church minister for parish) lesson on the killing fields of the Westlea Church (lOam) Somme where eighty years ago to Rev. Peter Walker 872932 the week Commonwealth and Ger- Evening & other services as announced, man troops fratenised in 'no-mans full range of children's & other groups land' and even played a game of football. The cold, wet weather gave an added and evocative VACUUM CLEANER meaning to the remains of the REPAIRS trenches, the dozens of centetaries and the impressive memorials dotSAME DAY ted across the bleak and now unLOCAL SERVICE No call out charge spoilt landscape. WHEREVER POSSIBLE Repairs to all The return shuttle operated WASHING MACHINES, TUMBLE makes of domestic more like it should. A brief wait in DRIERS, TWIN TUBS, HOME the car at a very windy and cold & commercial LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT & car park of the Calais terminal, vacuum cleaners DOMESTIC APPLICANCES quick loading and the quick reHome Repairs or turn. So rapid that the car slid Evening Collection forward on the handbrake as the train driver slammed on the brakes (01793) 881007 as he emerged at Folkstone. A trip 33 Angus Cbse SWINDON of 70 minutes, motorway to moRanieaze West Swindon torway, faster than the ferry, but Mention this ad for discounts still slower than the 55 minutes Le Shuttle reckons the journey should 111111 ifIIllIIlJlIlllllllllltl take (assuming little or no queue). The most entertaining aspect of the return was Nigel 'votre chef du train' (if you can say it in your best Sarf London accent). There has been much publicity about British Small building work, carpendrivers learning French but someVehicles for Hire try, joinery, painting & where along the line the idea of at Competitive Rates decorating, fitted wardrobes speaking it with something like Vans. Lutons â€˘ Estates and kitchens, plugs and the right accent has been lost. Cars â€˘ Mini Bus washers fitted If you like the fuss of waiting at 272 Ermln Street a ferry terminal, being herded onto "No job too small" Stratton St. Margaret a ship, climbing up to the passenSwindon Very reasonable prices ger decks and exploring a floating supermarket with hundreds of othFree estimates ers, fine. Call Tony, the Odd Job Open Daily 9am - 6 pm The speed of Le Shuttle is a great Man on 0793 - 886022 Sundays 9am - lOam attraction but it's not for IIlIIllI!II1illlI!ltlillllIlll claustrophobes. However the English Channel is the most expensive crossing in the world and you'll still have to pay a hefty sum whether you're on top or below. Let's hope the ferry companies and LeShuttle have a price war to bring costs down, though they'll probably fix things to keep prices high. The physical link between Eu252 Whitworth Road 170 Victoria Road rope and the UK opens up new Swindon Swindon horizons. Europeans move across Tel: 522145 Tel: 522797 each other's borders easily. Le Shuttle now makes a trip to France similar to going down to Cardiff, PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST crossing the Severn Bridge. 24 hour personal service throughout the year Now all we need is a common currency so that you don't have to A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP buy foreign cash and increase the AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED profits of the moneychangers.

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Alexander and Rosemary Ogle deep under the channel in Le Shuttle

Shoot down the M4, round London on the M25 and onto the M20 straight to the ticket desk, about three hours fromSwindon depending on traffic jams. Le Shuttle were running one train per hour, so we had to wait in the terminal building with its inevitable duty-free shop. Trains will soon run every 15 minutes with little waiting. The train loading areas are huge and impressive pieces of engineering. The trains are clean, shiney steel tubes, with four or five cars and their passengers sealed into each compartment. Drive in one end and drive out the other, riding on a lower or upper level. Our start was not impressive. A slow departure, slightly swaying almost like the ferry on the rough sea above, then a complete stop for a thirty minute wait at the tunnel entrance. The apologetic French driver explained that the power had been cut. Le Shuttle Radio wasn't working so we sat there sharing doubts with other drivers. The trip under the channel was speedy and we were on the motorway within 5 minutes of reaching the Calais terminal.

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