January 1990 Swindon Link

west Swindon's

Magazine

Wakkies

THE

LINK No. 94 January 1990 • Circulation 10,000

W. Swindon market to start soon A new kind of shopping comes envisage up to 80 stalls being to the area when an outdoor market starts in a few weeks.

After a great deal of negotiation, several reports and much discussion by committees at Thamesdown Council, the contract to run the market has been won by Evans Town & Country Markets Ltd. The market will be held on Tuesdays in the coach and car park close to the Link Centre.

Lyn Evans, managing director of Evans Town & Country Markets, said he was looking forward to starting the West Swindon market as soon as the final contracts were agreed with Thamesdown. "The company presently operates 39 markets in England and Wales. We

Windmill Hill Business Park share sell-off

occupied providing a broad cross section of commodities, with an emphasis on food.

"We'll be making a stall available to a local community group every week and also running a free coach pick-up service for the elderly in the West Swindon area."

Commenting on the type of market his company will run, Mr Evans said, "We hope to create a continental feel with brightly striped canopies over a good community feeling about it."

Toothill councillor Ricky Midwinter said he was glad the market was about to take off nearly two years after he put the idea forward the council officers.

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Leisure Suite Biunsdon House Hotel Blunsdon 1. 721701 ext 124 Monday to Saturday

Link Centre becomes a fire station

Emergency call-out. The fire engine emerges from the library garage at the Link Centre

West Swindon has its own fire engine, five months in advance of the completion ofa fire station on Westmead Way close to Westlea.

Following successful discussions between Thamesdown Council, Wiltshire Fire Brigade and Wiltshire County Council's Library Service, the appliance is being stored at night and over the weekends in the garage normally used for library vehicles at the Link Centre.

Assistant Divisional Officer Simon Routh-Jones said the staff for the West Swindon station had been recruited some time ago and using the garage at the Link Centre from 2 January gave the fire service an opportunity to enhance their cover in advance of the new station opening sometime between April and June this year. "Eighteen firemen have been recruited or volunteered to move to the new station. All have moved into the West Swindon area so that they

can respond within minutes. Six men will be on call at all times.

"The growth of Swindon has had an effect on response times.

Having an appliance and crew in the West Swindon area will improve the cover we provide.

"The discussions between the Link Centre and the Library service have been very positive and the outcome is a benefit to the community. The fire engine will also cover parts of north Swindon in conjunction with an appliance from Stratton St. Margaret."

In exchange for the garage facilities at the Link Centre, the fire service will be providing a garage for a mobile Library at Swindon fire station for the next few months.

Commenting on the new role for the Link Centre, centre coordinator John Fisher said that the Link had been built with flexibility of use in mind and the council was pleased to cooperate with the emergency services.

Local children have been saving thousands of aluminium cans. Now we need a can bank in the area. More on pa.e 18 & 19.

alu4km qauzuj

"Whose eating my porridge?" Four mums in the Little Beavers toddler performed Goldilocks and the Three Bears; from the left, Carol Belson as Father Bear, Sue Russell as Goldilocks, Sue Allen as Baby Bear and Chris Woodward as Mummy.

The bit that Santa never sees. Karen Finnegan, left, and Teresa Kerrigan do the washing up after the Toothill Farm Coffee Morning Toddler Groups Xmas party

All wrapped up. Kay Golden, left, Jennifer Timms and Jean Carnegie were not sure what to decorate next at a 'Tree Trimming Party' held at the beginning of December to deco rate the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

Luke Mooney of Edington Close, Toothill won the prize for the best fancy dress at the ceremony tosw itch on the Christmas lights at the West Swindon Centre, seen here receiving his gift from Jenny Abrams who was chosen to turn them on.

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FRONT PIECE Leaving, but not going

3

by Roger Ogle, Publisher & Editor of The Link Many people have known me as a Community Development Officer with Thamesdown Borough Council, as well being involved with The Link Magazine.

But taking a leap into the 90's, I Swindon is a very different place. a parted company with the Council Community development work UNISEX HAIR SALON at the end of the year to concentrate, in those early days was marked by (Formerly Wakkies) with my wife Ruth, on making The the setting up of lots of community Opening Hours Special Offers: Link an even more effective channel groups, particularly for pre-school Monday 9am - 1 p • Sunbed of communication for the people of children and their parents, as well Tuesday to Thursday 9am - 5pm West Swindon. We will also be as getting community centres built • Beautician developing our Desktop Publishing for people to meet in.

Friday 9am - 7pm • Special rates for OAP's and Electronic Design services to The process of setting up and Saturday 9am - 3pm • Free Coffee local businesses and community supporting groups has continued, organisations. with other community workers Unit 1, Woodshaw Village Centre, Woodshaw, We arrived in the 'western joining me in a team concerned Wootton Bassett Tel: 854653 expansion' in early 1979 when there with the changing and developing were only 600 houses occupied. needs of West Swindon.

With 10,000 now completed, West But, I've always wondered, "Do we have a community here?"

Coming to live in a 'new town' which was green fields 14 years ago is an upheaval for most people.

Published by West Moreover the enormous changes Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S. Swindon Publications that have taken place in British 62 - 64 Purton Road. society over the last 10 years have 13 Castle Dare Tel: Swindon 26780 worked against stability and the Freshbrook, Swindon Mon. - Fri. 9am-1Oam; development of social cohesion.

Editorial: Roger Ogle, 2pm-3pm; 5pm-6pm Despite this, I believe West Open Surgery Mon. - Fri. Publisher/Editor Swindon is a 'community' which 6pm-6.3Opm Tel: (0793) 872282 people relate to. I look forward to Renault Saturday 9am- 11am Advertising Sales: publishing details of the survey Centre Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 printed in last April's Link to be 29 Cavendish Square.

I Apple Macintosh design, more specific about what kind it is.

Tel: Swindon 511267 layout and lasersetting by It's this belief that underpins my 24 Hour Keystrokes Electronic Design move from community developEmergency Freshboc4c Tootd Printed by Western Webb, Bristol ment worker to publisher. Having Service been involved with The Link since Published on the Wednesday 1979,1 also think the magazine has closest to the first of the month. helped 'West Swindonians' feel it has the integrity and cohesion Copy date: 20th of the month. which a 'community' needs.

February edition published I need to thank the Council for on 31 January. lJ Are you paying too much tax? allowing me to work part time on a job share basis over the last two El Are you taking advantage of the "The Link was first published in years in order to publish The Link.

December 1978 exclusively for new rules for taxation of husband I've greatly enjoyed being a the West Swindon community.

Community Development Officer. and wife from April 1990?

It is completely Independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the Now, without the responsibilities Professional Advice on Income Tax, El and the burdens of the role, I will competition to name the leisure Capital Gains Tax, Inheritance Tax centre in 1984. The magazine is continue to make a contribution to the development of West Swindon entirely sell-supporting from and National Insurance as a good place to live. advertising."

-:SesCaroline Ockwe 11 aa Laurence Yeoman, my jobContents Member of the Institute of Taxation sharer, will be responsible for the Front Piece 3 community development team 180 Thames Avenue, Greenmeadow, Swindon 4 Toothill until my replacementis appointed.

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TOOTHILL

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Day of Music at school

A mass sing-in and continuous piano play at Toothill School at the end of November raised over £300 for school funds.

The whole school took part in the sing song according to teacher Linda Rankin. "We were looking for a sponsored event idea as we need another computer. The children enjoy singing so we went for it. They and their parents responded magnificently. The hail won't take all 450 children in school so we had two shifts with the infants singing for half an hour and later the juniors sang for an hour."

In addition to sponsored singing, members of staff took it in turns to tinkle the ivories between 9a.m. and 3p.m. "The Linda Rankin at the piano with joint organiser Nichola Hoare (standing piano was played continuously at the rear) and some the youngsters who sang their way to £300 throughout the day, all during P.E. lessons and the lunchbreak.

"Everybody entered into the spirit of the day. It was a lot of A Christmas Bazaar at Toothill Community Centre in December fun." said Mrs Rankin. raised £90 for centre funds.

The Bazaar organised by the staff who work at the centre also allowed the Dunwich Drive and Toothill Farm playgroups, the Good Companions pensioners club and the centre lunch club to raise much needed cash for their activities. Around 200 people attended the event.

Staff organise centre bazaar

Pictured left, the staff who organised the bazaar, from left to right, Alison Wellard, Sue George, Mary Brooks, Diane Richards, Robina Winslow, committee member Maggie Heath, Patsy Williams, Kelly George, Kelly Hitchens and Maxine Jeacock

Dinosaur discoveries Youngsters at Toothill School spent part of last term finding out all about dinosaurs and comparing their living conditions with the present.

One hundred and twenty middle and top infants took part in the topic which involved

Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food 'Take-Away Menu Tel: 487055 Business 6- 1130pm Closed all day 5- 1130pm 5-11.30pm 12-1.45pm 5-11.30pm 12-1.45pm 5- 12.00am 12- 145pm 12 - 2.00pm 5 - 12.00am Hours of

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collecting information about the age of the dinosaurs, drawing, writing and studying the sizes of the creatures of the past. They also looked at their habitat and compared their structure with the way humans are built.

Jane Flute, one of the teachers involved in the project, described how one group of children came in one day to be confronted by a pile of bones in the classroom.

"They quickly decided that it was a human from the skull. After a lot of discussion about the different sizes of the bones, they were able to work out how to put it together. The staff quickly dubbed the skeleton the 'previous teacher'."

At the end of the project, the four classes involved turned part of the school into a museum, following a visit to the Natural History Museum in London.

7arents were invited to visit our museum and each pupil took on a different role - in the shop, in

the cafe or on the door, others were scientists and guides," said Ms Flute. "The whole topic went very well; the children did some marvellous work and had some fun doing it."

Below: Matthew Catt from Tattershall and Hilary Sproule of Affleck Close draw pictures of dinosaurs

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6 DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE

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A taste of Victorian punishment for the whole class at Windmill Hill

Youngsters at Windmill Hill Primary School had an exciting, but surprising day trying to imagine themselves in a school of the last century.

As part of their project on time, second year juniors spent their day writing on slates, doing drill and learning about King and Empire. Originallythe class were due to spend aday at the Victorian school at Sevington in Gloucestershire. However, as the school does not have heating, the coordinator came to Freshbrook with Victorian clothes, toys and all the equipment necessary to create the atmosphere of the past.

Some of the children wrote down their impressions for The Link.

Play Fair follow up Following a fun filled play day for 5 to fourteen year olds at Freshbrook Community Centre in November, the next stage in organising more activities for youngsters takes place at a discussion on 13 January.

Apart from fun for kids, the Play Fair, organised by the Freshbrook Village Group residents' organisation and Thamesdown Council's Play Service, aimed to find out from

parents what they want to see happening in the area. The adults who attended were asked to give their views in a questionnaire.

The meeting between 11a.m. and 1p.m. on Saturday 13 January in Freshbrook Community Centreis a chance for adults to add to the information provided in the questionnaire.

The organisers are very keen to meet people who missed the Play Fair or would like to meet others interested in improving activities for children in Freshbrook.

There will be supervised play activities going on in another room whilst the adults talk. To book a child care place, telephone Maureen Barker on 871017.

Darren Crannis wrote: 'We had our tables in rows. We had to dress-up and roll our socks over our trousers to make knickerbockers. When someone walked in we had to stand up.'

Zarina Naseem said: 'The girls did sewing and the boys did art.

We had bible reading and had to do sums on a slate. In the afternoon we drew Victorian toys.

Rachel Wood worked with Satinder Kaur during the day.

'We thought it was all brilliant.

We did arithmetic, bible reading, spelling, copy writing, hand inspection and played with hoops and hobby horses at breaktime.

We liked sewing best; it would be nice to have another Victorian day.'

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Pedestrian safety around Freshbrook Village Centre should be improved soon following decisions by committees at Thamesdown Council.

Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton reports that he was able to persuade the Housing Committee to build a short section of footpath into Windmill Hill School so that parents and children can avoid walking near the busy school entrance.

Safety on Worsley Road by the

Village Centre should be improved following a decision by the Public Works Committee.

"The combination of a busy road, a bend and lots of pedestrians has at last been recognised," said Coun. Pixton. "The council will be installing a 'traffic calming' measure. This will be a raised section of road to slow traffic down and make drivers more aware of pedestrians. I'm very pleased that something is being done about their needs."

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Local charity is willing to lend their 14 seater minibus to schools/local voluntary groups/ families, etc for a donation of £25 per day.

Own petrol to be supplied and no smoking permitted Telephone 771021 on weekday mornings only.

WESTLEA Group donation to baby unit A West Swindon parent and toddler group presented hand knitted clothing and blankets to the Special Care baby unit at Princess Margaret Hospital on 18 December.

Parents in the Nutkins group which meets at the Upper Shaw Farm started to knit items for the unit after one of their number gave birth to the tiniest baby of the year at the end of September.

In last month's Link magazine, we told the story of Carla Spackman who was born 15 weeks early, weighing just llb 7 1/2 ozs and with only a 15% chance of survival. Now her parents Vanessa and Cohn from Westlea can't wait for her to come home in January, when she would have been expected.

Three members of Nutkins were given a tour of the special care unit by Sister Phil Chambers to see the tiny babies being cared for, meet some of the staff and

look at some of the very expensive equipment on hand to help the babies grow.

"We get lots of donations from individuals, but not often from community groups," said Sister Chambers. "It's lovely to receive hand knitted garments which are the right size for these tiny babies.

The tour impressed Nutkins member Alison Kerr. "Our group wanted to do something for the unit in return helping Carla, Colin and Vanessa, and Ryan their little boy. It's wonderful the work they do here. The care and love is tremendous."

Pictured right: Angela Burgoyne of Shaw with her six week old Oliver, born six weeks premature, Alison Kerr of Nutkins, Sister Phil Chambers holding Beverley, June Roberts and Rhonda Telford 'Are you collecting Aluminium Cans for the Blue Peter Save a Life Appeal. Turn to Green Tendencies on page 18.

7

Name check Whilst writing the story about Carla Spackman, the tiniest baby of the year, in last month's Link, we started off by calling her dad Cohn (his real name) and ended up by naming him Nigeli How and why is a mystery, but shows up poor proof reading on our part.

At least Cohn's friends won't think he's a footballer with Queens Park Rangers any more.

Our apologies to Cohn for the mistake.

More for children needed in Westlea Shila Mitchell reports on discussion by parents about the needs of families and youngsters In the area During the autumn some mothers from Westlea met at Westlea School to discuss Play Activities and Needs in the area with Thamesdown Council's Play Officer Paul Ryan and Community Development Officer Laurence Yeoman, and Mr Neil Griffiths, Headmaster of Westlea School.

A vast range of subjects were discussed.

Safety of children of all age groups was our main concern followed by provision of facilities and activities to occupy the young to keep them away from potentially dangerous situations.

Many of the suggestions put forward could, with some thought and possibly redirected resources, be easily implemented.

The mothers expressed a tremendous willingness to become involved in projects which got things going for children. But it was considered essential that some sort of paid official should oversee many of the proposed activities with a back up of voluntary helpers, i.e. parents and maybe grandparents.

Play parks criticized West Swindon has a number of play parks with good facilities but the location of some were criticized. Some, particularly Withy Mead were considered to be too isolated and secluded and whilst ecologically the trees and bushes may be ideal, they were not considered safe for children to play in unless they were strictly supervised.

Many teenagers use the parks as meeting places. Some smoke and use bad language and therefore many parents of younger children are reluctant to let their children play in such an environment.

There is also the problem of dogs and the resultant mess which owners still refuse to clear up making play areas quite insanitary.

Whilst many play parks have been carefully landscaped there is little space for children to play ball games, ride bicycles and use skateboards and rollerskates resulting in many children pursuing these activities in the street. Apart from being unsafe children playing ball games in the street can cause damage to other people's property. Balls land in gardens, break windows and the noise generated by such games can be a nuisance to other residents.

The use of school playing fields and tarmaced car parks in schools for such activities would be ideal providing the problems concerning insurance could be overcome.

Differences in seasonal requirements were also highlighted. On winter evenings there are few inexpensive places for youngsters to meet. Many cannot take friends home for a variety of reasons so older children meet in the parks or in the grounds of the Link Centre or simply hang around on street corners. This is totally unacceptable and potentially very dangerous.

Need for a community centre The provision of a proper community centre was considered essential and the official representatives were urged to discoverthecompletion dateof the proposed new building so that a promotional event could be organised to coincide with the opening with the emphasis on play and leisure activities for the young. It was suggested that this building could be used to hold a Saturday Club for youngsters with a view to holding after school clubs at a later date once the necessary help and funding could be organised. Once again voluntary help to make this work would be essential.

After School activities wanted Mr Griffiths was particularly concerned about the number of 'latch key' children in the area and it was felt that some safe provision should be made forthesechildren, some of whom are very young and should not be left to wander the streets unsupervised. Whilst there was unanimous agreement that this was a real problem which needed to be tackled it was felt that it would be unfair to ask non-working mums to volunteer to supervise these children even if suitable facilities could be found to accommodate them. Properly trained paid staff would need to be recruited to oversee their care.

There was also concern about the older children and teenagers who are considered to be old enough to be left for long periods of time by their parents but who are at risk from becoming involved in drugs, shoplifting and other illegal practices. These youngsters do not necessarily want any organised activities, simply somewhere safe to meet their friends, to talk, enjoy a coffee and perhaps play records. It was felt that future activities would then be initiated from within the group once established.

The group will be meeting again at 1 .30p.m. on Thursday 18 January at Westlea School. We hope that a representative from the Arts and Recreation Department will be present to discuss the Play Parks In the area. Coffee and a creche will be 'available.

If you have views on facilities and activities for children in the area, come along and express them.

For further information please contact Sheila Mitchell on 873062

8

SHAW

Gary helps out at Salt Way F

V

/ \,- __ ! ___

SHAW SALON Opening Hours Mon, Tue, Wed. 8am - 6pm Thurs, Fri. 9am - 7pm Sat. 8.30am - 1 .3Opm Shaw Village Centre. Tel: 874825

Children at Shaw's Salt Way Primary School performed their carol concert and Christmas entertainment for parents with accompaniment by policeman Gary Marsh from Westlea.

Gary, who was recently promoted to Sargeant, volunteered his services after reading an appeal in The Link from Salt Way's headteacher Sue Butcher for somebody to play the piano. "1 play in a band with some colleagues and we can only play for charity," said Gary. "Its been great fun working with the children. The school arranged practices around my shift duties."

Pictured below: Gary Marsh, centre, with some of the youngsters at Salt

Way School

also 41 High St., Wootton Bassett. Tel: 853282

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Shaw Residents Association Next Meeting Monday 8th January, 7.45p.m. in the meeting room, new Show Church at the Village Centre.

All residents of Show are invited to offend and raise any problems which the Association should take up on behalf of the people of Show.

Shaw W.I. next meeting Press Officer Debbie Griffiths writes: Well, I don't know about you but I don't mind if I don't taste another mince pie for at least 12 months.

Our W.I. table decorations have had their moment of glory. Next thing is to put them all away into the box which seems to shrink every year!

The next W.I. meeting is on Monday 15 January at 7.30p.m. in the Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre.

We're having a speaker on Opticians and a funny glasses competition. Why not get out the scissors, cellotape, old Xmas cards and knockupa pairof DameEdna specs in 5 minutes?

Blue Peter can do it, so why cant you!

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PAUSE ... is a new group aimed at giving women a break during the daytime, and its looking for other women across West Swindon to join them.

The group used to be called the Toothill Women's Group, but the name gave the wrong image according to Kerrie Stone. "The name sounded a bit radical and perhaps some people thought we were only for Toothill women.

"PAUSE is for any women across West Swindon who want a break from the routine of day to day life and want to meet others and broaden their outlook. We're not affiliated to any organisation and welcome women of any age.

"Our discussions concentrate on the women's needs whilst the children are looked after by the

Swindon Childcarers. As a lone parent I was a bit unsure about joining a few months ago. But I look forward to coming, it's a welcome break from the kids."

The programme for the next few meetings is: 12 January - Introductory coffee morning, a good day to join in 26 January - "Sugaring" demonstration 9 February - Informal chat 23 February - Talk by Ann Aylard on child development (Bedwetting, toilet training, behavioural problems, sleeping patterns, etc.

9 March - Informal chat PAUSE meets from 10a.m. to 12 noon on a Monday in Toothill Church. Although the group meets there, it is not church group. There is a charge of 50p to cover costs.

Below: Friendly welcoming smiles from the women in the PAUSE ... group

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Control your weight with Trim-In Local health visitors Janet Ascherson and Jane Lyons are running another of their successful Trim-In courses for anybody who wants to learn how to control their diet and lead a healthier lifestyle.

The course is not diet plan says Janet. "The Trim-In course looks at what you eat as one part of trying to be healthy. There will be advice on how to prepare healthy meals and what other things you can do to enjoy life more."

The Trim-In course starts on the morning of Wednesday 10 January and lasts for 8 weeks and will take place in the Community Room at Toothill School.

There is a small charge and places must be booked with the Health Visitors. Telephone Toothill Clinic on 642133 to book a space.

Distributors wanted for 'Echoes' Sue Forster and Adrian Rudler are Independent Distributors for L'Arome UK Ltd. A company with a proven success story and member of the D.S.A. (Direct Selling Association).

Since they started trading in 1987 L'Arome have sold in excess of £40,000,000 of 'Echoes' fragrance products.

The Company have a Charitable Trust and aim to raise £1 million for charity in 4 years. The aim to raise £1 50,000 for the charity BUSS (Baby Life Support Systems) is being helped by Sue and Ade who are hoping to do as many parties, coffee mornings etc. as possible between now and the end of January

as with every 75m1 bottle of Eau de Parfum sold, a part of the company profit is donated to this fund. If you feel you could help by hosting a party, either for yourself, or for a playgroup, mothers group etc, as well as helping the BUSS CAMPAIGN, you will also be eligible for some fantastic Hostess Gifts!

Sue and Ade are always looking for new Distributors to join their successful team, to help with the fantastic expansion of L'Arome, in this and other areas, and of course to help raise more money for the Charitable Trust! If you think you can help In any way, - then give them a call for full details! Telephone Sue or Ade, Malmesbuiy (0666) 825258

Eating meeting for under 5's people

11 UNDER 5's Play workshop is great fun for under 5's

Parents and their young children from all over West Swindon took part in a free Play Workshop organised by the West Swindon Under 5's Forum at the Link People involved with pre-school Centre in December.

A wide variety of 'playgroup children are invited to a 'potluck supper' on Thursday 11 January type' activities were on offer at by the West Swindon Under 5's tables set out around the main hail in the Community Suite which Forum.

Parents, playgroup committee allowed parents and their children members and anybody else who to try a variety of activities during is responsible for or works with a short period of time. Painting, young children are asked to bring playdough, collage, music, cooking without a stove and a a dish and join in.

The Forum is over two years book corner were all on offer. old and has organised Across the generations: Aileen and Sam Vaughan from Middleleaze were discussions about facilities and joined by Sam's grandparents Rita Brooks and Dennis Brooks at the play services for pre-school children. workshop Its main activity has been to organise two summer festivals which have been enjoyed by hundreds of parents and their youngsters.

Individual parents and those involved with groups in some Now there are different ways to slim with Cambridge, way can belong to the Forum thanks to the new Cambridge 'Choices range of diets.(7jibijdOe which is a very informal Call your Counsellor now. organisation. Two topics for Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on Swindon 873201. discussion at the pot luck supper will be how to organise this summer's Under S's Festival and a Quiz League for teams in some way connected with preCarpets • Upholstery schoolers.

The Pot Luck Supper takes • Powerful up to date equipment place from 8p.m. on Thursday • No mess 11 January in the Community • No fuss Suite at the Link Centre. Bring • No shampoo a dish to share with others. All • FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE are invited.

• Lounge Carpets Janet Bazley, centre, receives a gift • Hall, Stairs from committee member Jane Hill• Landings ier, right, and playgroup supervisor • Bedrooms Lyn Scragg • 3 Piece Suites - All Types expertly cleaned.

The Upper Shaw Farm playgroup CaliSatuly Best, A.LP.TL Jenny Woodman, supervisor at presented its chairwoman with a Swindon remat1ie rap 1st the Oliver Tomkins Playgroup cut glass bell at its Christmas party 874460 Tel. 855266 has come up with a nice idea to in December, in recognition of bring people involved with under her services.

The presentation took place a 5's together.

She's thinking of organising an few days before Janet Bazley left Under 5's Quiz League and The the area to return to Greater Link has offered to put up a shield, Manchester.

• take a break from your routine Playgroup supervisor Lynn if enough people come forward • meet new friends Scragg said she had appreciated to take part.

"There are lots of mums, dads, Janet's voluntary effort over the • broaden your horizons playgroup supervisors, and last year. "It's been a hectic year • have some time to yourself others involved with under 5's," with many staff changes. Janet said Jenny. "With ten playgroups was always there to help us to • come along to one of our meetings and about 30 parent and toddler sort out difficult problems. Her PAUSE is a friendly group of women who groups in West Swindon I think leadership has helped keep the meet fortnightly for demonstrations, we could get a few teams playgroup strong and a good organised. It'll be a good way to place for the children to develop." activities and informal discussions. get people together and to have Children are looked after by the Swindon some fun."

Jenny can be contacted on Childcarers 870256 to discuss her idea. It will Newcomers are always made welcome. be discussed at the Under S's Due to illness and the Christ(We are NOT a church group) Forum Pot-Luck Supper on 11 mas break, the first contribuJanuary. Hopefully the Quiz tion of the New Year from LiToothifi Church, lOam - 12 noon League can be launched soon brarian Linda Black has been Second and third Mondays of the month. postponed until next month. afterwards.

Playgroup says farewell

DIFFERENT DIETS FOR DIFFERENT DIETERS

CHOICES

SU RECLEAN

LIES

Make 1990 your year for health, Iuirnwny arul weCC-fieing

Quiz League planned

•1

PAUSE.. . awhile

Library News

12

EDUCATION MATTERS St. Joseph's Roman Catholic School

Potential parents are frequently confused when they see the School address listed as Queen's Drive, Swindon and Nythe Road, Covinghani.

The answer is that the school is a 'split-site' because of historical reasons. Successive Headteachers have turned this potential disadvantage into a positive attribute for St. Joseph's pupils.

Years I and 2 are situated at the Lower School, Queen's Drive, which is quite separate from the Upper School site at Nythe Road. Both buildings are complete schools with Laboratories, Computer Rooms, Drama Workshops, Halls, Gymnasiums,

Concluding our 'photo tourof secondary schools designated to take West Swindon children, headteacher John Williams describes 'St. Joe's'

Libraries, Canteens, etc. but whereas the total school population exceeds 1,000 pupils, there are less than 400 at Queen's Drive and a more sheltered 'Middle' School atmosphere can be maintained which helps younger pupils to bridge the gap between Primary and Secondary Education.

In a recent survey to discover the 10 'best' maintained Secondary Schools in London, 6 (including the top of the list) were voluntary aided schools with a religious foundation.

St. Joseph's aims to follow this pattern and the whole ethos of the school centres around the Christian message.

Thus, first and foremost, the pupils

Below: A hymn practice in the Lower School chapel.

Above: First year students wih art teacher Louise Shaw,from right, Natalie Henderson from Show, Emma Niebieska from Toothill, Rebecca Burke, Tooth ill and Samuel Baker, Freshbrook.

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are taught to care- for their colleagues, their families, their school, their church and the wider community.

This unified central aim leads to a disciplined approach to study and play and has resulted in the exceptional examination successes that the school has enjoyed over the years, coupled with its traditional dominance in football, netball and cross country events. Local employers, too, frequently remark on the 'quality' of St. Joseph's ex-pupils.

More that 120 West Swindon youngsters take advantage of thefree transport provided by the Local Authority to bring them to St. Joseph's. Each site has its own chapel and all children have two periods per week of Religious Education. Last year 167 fifth year pupils took Religious Education at GCSE, in addition to their 'normal' subjects and 163 passed with 78 gaining 'top' grades.

The school has maintained its Sixth Form and recent past pupils include Patrick Wall from Purton who went up to Oxford and became President of the University Students Union.

Three years ago Helen Kenny gained a place at Balliol College, Oxford, and has proved her worth by winning the Greville-Smith prize for Chemistry at the University.

On the sports field Lee qo, from Freshbrook, is the present County under 16's cross country champion, runs for England and has represented Catholic Schools in Europe.

Apart from West Swindon, St. Joseph's reputation attracts pupils from Malmesbury, Caine, Shrivenham and outlying districts of Swindon whose parents seek traditional values and disciplined teaching for their youngsters and are generally more than satisfied with the outcome.

Below: Headteacher John Williams helps Jusev Ojo on the computer

Below: Mrs Anne-Marie Rogers sets up a science experiment with second years from West Swindon. From left: Damian Wasylkiew, Gerald Harvey, Victoria Tooze, Vicky Merritt, Georgina Burt

Film Tuesday 11 January Mississippi Burning (18) Summer 1964: Three young civil rights workers vanished from the outskirts of a small Mississippi town. What developed was a firestorm of protest as the world's attention focused on the struggle that plagued America. Gene Hackman and William Dafoe star as two FBI agents in this story of a search for the truth directed by acclaimed director Alan Parker.

Thursday 25 January Paris By Night (18) David Hare's first film stars Charlotte Rampling and Michael Gambon in an unsettling tale of a women politician who believes he can get away with murder.

/D

o

Secret Circus for youngsters

@

The Secret Circus is an art and drama workshop for children. it takes place every Tuesday 4p.m. to 6p.m. in the Link Arts Studio.

Cost is £1.50 per week.

Alternative Comedy set to have you rolling about in the aisles

Above: The Bonkers Funtasia Show comes to Link Arts on 27 January

For Children

Films start at 7.30p.m.

To launch the arts in West Film club membership £1. Swindon in the '90's Link Arts Studios have lined up a superb Admission £1 .75/1 .25 series of live performance events for children.

Music Saturday 6 January, 8p.m.

Jazz/Rock from ex King Crimson The Bonkers Funtasia Show on violinist David Cross and his Saturday 27 January, 2.30p.m. is band supported by reggae/rock! a colourful show for all the family ja77 fusion band Art from Bristol. presented by the BONKERS team, famous for clowning, juggling and fun! Tickets: £2.00 Saturday 20th January rock with John's Brother On Saturday 17 February a full supported by Planet Earth. length puppet show intitled King Arthur and His Square Table Friday 26th January, 8p.m.

Seven piece band Taboola Rasa will be performed by Ticklish bring their style of mega-funk Allsorts. The show takes a humourous look at the Arthurian from the jazz dance scene.

legends and features music, songs and sound effects. Suitable for 411 year olds. Tickets: £2 Swindon's Ocotbus Project puppeteers present Jack and The Beanstalk, a puppet show and workshop on Tuesday 20 February at 2p.m. This half term treat costs only 75p.

Future events for children include The Ideal Gnome Expedition (a David Woods play), Clown Flavoured Soup performed by local puppeteer Ian Moorehouse from Toothill and Punk and Judy presented by the Parachute Theatre Company.

WYVERN THEATRE, SWINDON Monday 29th January. 7.30p.m.

OUVE

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A new type of entertainment comes to the Link Arts from February.

Starting on 13 February, 'Tuesday Night Live' will bring top stand up alternative comedians from the London comedy circuit. The nights are sure to be live entertainment like you've never seen before.

Guitar Tuition 1 to 1 Tuition by Professional Guitar Tutor Beginners to Diploma Standard Contact Bernard Tanner The Shaftesbury Centre Percy Street (off Rodbourne Road)

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The forces of evil are at large.

Popeye's arch enemies Brutus and Sea Hag are out to destroy Popeye and his cronies.

This is the first ever staging of E.C. Segar's world famous comic strip.

David Glass new mime ensemble

Tickets £4.50; £3.50 (Concessions half price)

14 Link Centre Promotions Officer Anya Kent has a couple of Ideas to get you fit

We've got a suite that won't make you fat!

Here's a suite you can try as many times as you like, and all you will gain are benefits!

After the excesses of Christmas join us at the Link Centre Health Suite, where we have the facilities to cleanse, soothe, invigorate and refreshen your body.

Our unbeatable combination of light exercise (including computerised rowing machine and exercise bike), sauna, jacuzzi and sunbeds will prepare you to meet any challenge that the1990's may hold.

Aqua Fitness Try this new keep fit session with a difference - you don't even need to be able to swim. Tone-up your muscles and improve both your strength and stamina whilst supported by water.

You'll find that your body experiences less stress than when exercising on land. Come along to the Link Centre swimmingpool and enjoy this fun new say to stay in shape.

Mondays 12noon to 1p.m. Cost El .20/60p

RECREATION A Karate Club based inToothill is Club set for international match proving itself to be one of the best in Britain and will be competing abroad later this year.

In the last 31 tournaments the Toothill Plus One Higashi Karate club has won 205 trophies in all age categories from eight year olds through to adults.

The club is led by3rd DanTerry Smalley, from Chepstow Close, Toothill, who claims the club is the most successful in the country.

"1 think it's because we go in for lots of competitions. It gives the youngsters good attitude and fighting spirit. Brendan Nolan recently won the British Open Championships against 60 others in the under-five foot, under 16 category. Laura Dredge from Shaw and Donna-Marie McGarry from Toothill have both earned high placings."

Recently Terry himself took part in the first Wessex Open Karate Championships, his first competion in nine years. He was entered by mistake, but not letting

High flying students

Terry Smalley, at the rear, with his successful band of Higashi Karate followers age get in his way he took first One Higashi club, visit one of their training evenings at Oliver place.

During 1990 the club plans to Tomkins Junior School, take 20 members to Sweden to Beaumaris Road on a Tuesday or Thursday between 5.45p.m. and compete against another club.

To find out more about the Plus 7.30p.m.

Club Runners from the Link

Steve Milsom , Press Officer of the Swindon Road Runners, writes about the club and invites new members to join A team of students from Have you ever wondered who are the group of runners rushing Greendown Community School around the West Swindon locality on Friday evenings during the will be participating in the South last year or so?

of England schools trampoline The Swindon Roadrunners (SRR) track races at all the regular distances. championships later this month. established its training runs from the Our first ever club triathlon, Pictured below is Lucy Knock from Link Centre in December 1988, in covering a 200 metre swim, 12 mile Freshbrook going through her paces. order to have a change from running bike ride and four mile run, was held around the busy streets of Swindon. at Dorcan pool in December. We We try to organise a route of some 6 to have had two 'hash' runs from the Smiles distance, with a short cut for Link Centre: this involves trying to inexperienced runners, and finishing follow a 'flour' trail laid around a five mile (unknown) circuit without in the Link bar afterwards.

The training runs give members getting lost and losing the trail!

Cross countryrunning can be hard the opportunity to exchange views with like-minded colleagues, to find work but is great fun! From October someone of a similar standard and to March each year we participate in pace with whom to run in the early two races each month, normally on weeks, and to identify those runners the second and third Sundays.

Anyone who undertakes the cross who are too fast now, but ought to be overtaken with a little more practice! country season reaps the benefits the SRR was formed in May 1983 to following season. It's an excellent encourage and develop running as a way of developing strength and sport, a leisureactivity and as ameans stamina for the road running months.

From March to October there are a of staying fit. It aims to cater for all abilities, from the serious runner to many road races in which to take absolute beginners. The club part, over a wide range of distances. currently has 100 members, men and The commonest distances for the women, and an active youth section establishedracesarelOKm (6.2miles), of nearly 30 young athletes. As its ten miles, half marathon (13.1 miles) name implies, the dub has been and the full marathon (26.2 miles). principally interested in roadrunning Some of the best races include the sobut, it has come along way since the called 'fun runs', often over five miles, early days. Itnowhas an involvement and organised as fund-raising in track and field events in the activities at school fetes and carnivals. summer, winter cross country runs The dub keeps a folder of race application forms for events all over and triathlon.

It became affiliated to the Amateur Wiltshire and the neighbouring Athletics Association in 1983, the counties, and we also have forms for Wessex Cross Country League in 1984 those hardy members who like to run and theAvalon Cross Country League marathons. In September 1989 a in 1988. Members involve themselves group ran the Berlin marathon. For in both the Wiltshire and Avon Track those members no accepted for the and Field Championships, and many London marathon, we intend to visit do well in such diverse activities as the Brussels race in April 1990.

Continued opposite long and high jump, relay racing and

DAY IN THE LIFE

15

All in a day at the press

Playgroups Association. The job In common with most working is a challenge, meeting customers mums, I can't really say that Lever Sue Bates, member of the Quick Red Printing needs, and also learning the trade have what can could be classed as more fully, as we are all self-taught. a 'normal working day'.

Co-operative and resident of Freshbrook, It often feels that nothing has Once up in the morning my first describes how she fits everything Into a busy day been achieved during the day, and task of the day is getting my son, many important jobs such as Sam's packed lunch ready for marketing seem to get left. Lately school, (dad has alreadygiven him I've been designing more publichis breakfast). Even preparing ity leaflets for ourselves to get our something as simple as his lunch message across to potential cuscan turn into a major battle field. tomers. Business has picked up One day he 'hates' white bread, greatly over the last nine months the next brown bread. One week and we are hoping that it will furhe wants peanut-butter in the ther increase. sandwiches the next he informs I usually only work to about me he only likes Marmite!

2.30p.m. and don't take a lunch At around 8.10a.m. my friend's break (no point as I'm always on a husband drops their two sans off diet). I leave work praying that to me. Usually all three boys play the car will start and get me to (peacefully?) until approx8.45a.m. school on time to pick Sam up. On when I inform them its 'shoes on the way to school! usually pickup time' and we prepare to set off for a copy of the evening paper to see playgroup and school. I drop the what's been going on in Swindon youngest one off to his playgroup Sue with Jenni Francis, the Black Business Women of the Year and that day. Once home, Sam tells me and then the older ones to Oliver speaker at the Bootstrap Enterprises Annual Meeting in December about his day and the tasks he's Tomkins Infants. been doing at school - whilst listening I preOnce settled, my days routine can vary re As I leave them and drive to work I wonder pare the evening meal and tidy up the pare dramatically. In the morning I tend to do what mother nature has in store for me that bookwork, banking of cheques, chasing bad mornings mess made by the children. day. Let me explain further, just over a year payers, preparing invoices, designing leafI'm involved in many things in Swindon ago some colleagues and I set up a small such as the Swindon Co-operative Developprinting firm (as a workers' co-operative). lets for clients and of course answering the ment Agency, Governor of Oliver Tomkins As a small firm we sought out cheap prem'phone. Part of the basic philosophy of our workers co-operative is that we 'give some- Schools and much more and therefore its ises but sometimes we end up paying the thing back' to the community. We offer all not unusual for me to have to attend meetprice! We currently rent a small unit from Bootstrap Enterprises on the old BREL site voluntary and community groups a dis- ings at least 2 or 3 evenings each week.

So you see, like all mums, working or not, in Rodbourne Road. When it rains the sky- count and as much advice as they require to enable their publications to look more pleasmy day is always full, but most of all I can light in the roof of our darkroom leaks and honestly say that because of the type of job many mornings we have to mop up the ing to the eye. No two jobs are the same and I have it is always fulfilling. puddles before starting work. Mind you, often I go and visit groups to show them even this unit is better than our previous one samples of papers and inkcolours. We often • Quick Red Printers will provide very print work 'free of charge' as part of our on the same site. That one not only leaked, competitive quotes for printing, and typebut the drains used to back up and soak the service to the community i.e. last year we setting if required. Telephone 485416. donated over 1,000 posters to the Pre-School carpet in the office!

Swindon Roadrunners (continued) The dub's principal fund-raising event each year is the 'Titcombe West Swindon 10Km' road race, which runs from and returns to Lydiard Park, in a loop around the West Swindon area.

The 1990 race is being organised for Sunday 2 July, starting at 11.00a.m.

It's a chance for members to see what it is like tomarshall a race, and to help with the organisation and smooth running of the day's activities.

Are you interested in joining Swindon Roadrunners?

Subscriptions are £6 for individuals, £8 for families (two members, plus £1 for each additional member), and £4 for under 18s, fulltime students, and those who are unemployed. Members receive a bimonthly newsletter, and can enter special events such as the club handicap and standards competitions.

Training runs are from the Oasis Centreon Monday nights at 7.15p.m., from the Link Centre on Friday nights at7.00p.m.,andattheCountyGround Track on Tuesday nights from 6.45p.m. Coaching is available, particularly on Tuesdays, and often

West Swindon Football Club Club organiser Phil Bathe gives a mid-season report on the area's own football club

Ready to run - A group of Friday evening gathering of Swindon Road Runners prepare for an 8 mile outing

by arrangement at other times. For further information, please contact Sue or Les (tel 823439); Pauline or Rowland (tel 6181138); or me, Steve Milsom, 23 Bosworth Road, Grange Park (tel 874771).

With half the season now completed, the club has again made good progress with 4 teams being run. The 1st team has had an excellent season so far. At present they are In second place In the Wilts league and are in both of the cup competitions they have entered.

The reserves, who this season have sponsorship from Pizzarama, have found their promotion to the Swindon District Premier Division difficult to adjust to. But they have produced some excellent cup performances to reach the quarter final of the Advertiser Cup. The club's newest side are the Under 12's who have sponsorship from the Trawlerman at West Swindon Centre. The young side after a difficult start are now producing some good winning

performances and should finish high in their league.

Last year's most successful side the Under 16's are now playing In the Swindon District league, where again they are in the running for honours in both league and cup.

As last season the club has again managed to run these sides despite the continued handicap of being unable to play at Greendown School due to the appalling pitch conditions. However the club has been assured by Wiltshire County Council officer that improvements will be undertaken in the near future.

The Club's senior side are still looking for new players, anyone interested should call Phil Bathe on 875556.

16

ADULT EDUCATION need a more in depth discussion Career Guidance and subsequently make an appointment at the Adult at the Link Centre Guidance Unit for further help.

Tuesday morning visitors to the Link Centre will have seen a guidance worker from the Adult Guidance Unit ready and waiting to deal with enquiries about education, training and employment. This service at the Link Centre has been operating for five months now. Guidance Worker, Helen Brown, says "Each week several people come to talk to us. Many of them are women who are considering a return to work and are wondering what to aim for and what training is

available. Some people come as they have seen the service advertised - other just happen to be passing by and take the opportunity to ask questions."

What sort of enquiries do people have?

"People ask about a wide range of things - where and how to update office skills is a common request, but we have had enquiries ranging from horticulture to teacher training. I bring with me lots of leaflets that people take away. Some people

Helen or one of her colleagues is available on Tuesdays from 10.00a.m. to 12.00 noon upstairs in the Mall area at the Link Centre.

She remarks "I would like to see far more people making use of

this facility at the Link. Our service is freely available to any member of the public over l9 who is not in full time education - so please drop by."

You can contact the Unit direct by telephoning Swindon 618866 or why not call at the Link Centre on a Tuesday morning?

Below: Helen Brown giving advice

Still places on Adult Education Courses

Country Fayre Catering Services * Parties I Wedding Receptions • Business Functions * Buffets & Banquets • Home made traditional cooking at competitive prices

For Free Advice & Quote, Tel: Swindon 485467

There are still places I on Adult Education courses starting later this month.

From Cake Icing to Understanding Horses, Aromatherapy and Antiques to Photography and Parachuting are In the programme.

For the latest Information on which courses still have vacancies, telephone Steve Williams on 871413. Leave a m essage on the same number It he Is not available

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What do you do at a Basic Education Class Julie Cove, a volunteer tutor with the Basic Education Unit, describes the atmosphere at the Wednesday morning class at Greendown.

What picture comes into your mind one of the nicest things about adult when you hear someone talk about literacy classes, and unlike some adult literacy classes? Does it other forms of learning the work immediately conjure up ideas of a you do in class is related to what re-run of school, sitting in you have to deal with in everyday regimental-style rows learning life, which is not only enjoyable but speffingby rote, while a rather stem also means the information in much looking teacher gives you marks more meaningful. There is a good out of 10? If you have ever toyed choice of 'real life props' for this: with the idea of enrolling for an old catalogues to give practice in adult literacy class but have been ordering clothes, photocopies of put off by this sort of idea, take cheques to write, magazine articles, heart - you're in for a pleasant which spark the creative juices,(we also sometimes write out recipes surprise.

Adult literacy classes take place using the recipe cards that often all over Swindon in schools and appear as a guide, and have colleges, in the daytime and composed answers toproblempage evening. Sometimes creches are letters). We also have the use of a provided. Usually the classes are computer. fairly small. (By the way, there is a People mostly work individually trained teacher and volunteer on and at their own pace, but the hand in every class). But in case emphasis here is on informality, you're thinking, yes, this is all very and if there's something that's not well, but what actually happens at clear, it often becomes the topic of one of these classes, let me explain. lively conversation. At about If you came along to one of our 10.30a.m. we have a coffee break, classes at Greendown School you and resume until 11.30a.m. Often would firstof all sit down and have people vary the subject they work a chat with Judy Johnson (the on, for example concentrating on teacher) and discuss what area you spelling in the first half of the class wish to concentrate on most - and working on the computer in spelling, reading, comprehension. the second half.

You might also be asked to write Going to classes for the first time something about yourself just to can be a nerve-wracking give an idea of which books would experience. But the first step is be most useful for you to work always the most difficult. So if from. When possible classes are you've ever thought about it but arranged to fit in with the interests just haven't got around to it, why of the individual. This provides an not just go along to a class. Adult excellent opportunity to work on a literacy classes are a good way to hobby or just something you might get to know other people, have a be involved in at home. chat, and brush up your writing This sort of flexibility is what is and spelling at the same time.

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Street cleaners treated as invisible men Litter in some parts of West Swindon is a grim eyesore and it seems fair game to add sweet papers, crisp wrappers, cans and bottles to the collection. Some partsare filthy withthedroppings of careless adults and children.

The big question is, who is responsible for clearing all the litter and rubbish up? Most householders in the area keep the area outside their front door neat and tidy, and through the rates to the local council, they also pay for the public areas to be kept litter free. But like all public services, there is a cost to be met and each hour spent cleaning up has to be accounted for.

children throw down sweet wrappers right in front of the cleaners and when its pointed out to them, the insults that come back are unbelievable."

The type of garbage the cleansing team have to remove is enormous and very unpleasant.

Gordon Ponting, one of the team leaders, described what they have to handle. "Apart from ordinary litter like sweet papers and fish and chip wrappers left on the pavement, we pickup bundles of free newspapers, estate agents signs, bags of cat litter, syringes, glass, Christmas trees.

"Sometimes we find bags of rubbish which havebeenbrought

Three people who should get more recognition, from the left, Gordon Ponting, Andrew Boguszewicz and Jim Comley

Two street cleansing teams from Thamesdown Council's Direct Labour Organisation operate in West Swindon and they are to be seen dressed in bright orange work suits picking up garbage near their yellow electric pick-up truck.

Their duties include picking up litter and sweeping Toothill and Freshbrook Village Centres daily and removing rubbish on road verges around West Swindon.

The garbage that is seen deep inside shrub beds is removed by a 'grounds maintenance' team who clear out and prune the bushes and hedges twice a year.

Additionally a road edge sweeper makes the rounds once a month, whilst gulleys are sucked clean every other month.

The men are seen around a great deal and you might expect them to be appreciated for their work. But not a bit of it.

According to their supervisor Mick Schofield, they are rarely thanked and quite often people are rude and insulting towards them. "The blokes seem to be invisible to people walking by.

Sometimes parents just let their

in from other parts of town and dumped; we know because of the envelopes left inside.

"I've been sworn at a lot and threatened a few times because if I see people dropping litter or I know who has put out a bag with glass in it, I speak to them."

Mick Schofield says the rate payers are paying for the cleansing service twice over.

"Some people just seem to take it for granted that they can dump rubbish and somebody will clean it up. But when you think about it, they are paying for their bins to be emptied, then they are paying for litter to be removed by street cleansing and ground maintenance staff.

"Each day of work is costed and estimates are made of how long an area will take. If there is more rubbish than usual then the costs go up and another area does not get such a good job."

If it was not for the efforts of the cleansing teams, there is no doubt that West Swindon could be a very untidy, rubbish strewn place. Readers are invited to comment on how West Swindon can be made more litter free.

Green CAN COUNT

SH o

Saving Cans can Save Lives Children at some of West Swindon's primary schools have been busily collecting aluminium cans in aid of an appeal by the BBC TV Blue Peter Programme for 10 million of them.

In the the eight weeks since the appeal was launched Toothill and Salt Way report that around 200 have been brought in at each school. At Shaw Ridge Primary, five pupils have organised a collection of about 1,000 cans and at Brookfield School in Shaw, an impressive total of over 2,000 has been brought in. At Freshbrook's Windmill Hill School, an astronomic 3,000 cans have been collected. Each has been collected, crushed and delivered to Tesco's in Swindon, or sent direct to Blue Peter.

The proceeds from re-cycling the cans will be used to buy equipment for sixteen Special Care Baby Units in hospitals around Britain.

All the cans used during the Christmas and New Year revelries could raise money for a

Youngsters at Brookfield School with theircan collection. FromLeft,Barry Holder, Emma Crump (kneeling), Sarah Stevens, Cohn Defty, Jenny Edwards

good cause - if they haven't been thrown out. Each can is worth about 2p. Take them to Tesco's or send them to the Blue Peter Baby Life Appeal, FREEPOST, Swansea SA88 113P.

Paper Industry facts

Tendencies APES to care for pond A group of eleven and twelve year olds has decided to do their bit for the environment.

Martin Becker, Brendan Cracknell, Wayne Davies and Mark Court, all second year students at Greendown School, have been busily fundraising and negotiating with Thamesdown Council to look after a pond in Toothill. They've called themselves APES, which stands for the Animal Protection and Environment Society.

Three members of APES with their home-made banner by the pond in Kiln Park, from left, Martin Becker, Brendan Cracknell, and Wayne Davies

Martin, the instigator of the group, explained the reason for deciding todo something positive for the environment. "I've always been interested in animals and it upsets me to see them killed, especially the elephants in Africa.

Seeing all the publicity about the burning down of the Amazon rain forest made me want to do something.

"1 told a few friends and my mum thought up the name. We had a stall at the Link Centre Charity market and sold our own books and toys. We raised ÂŁ20.

We're also collecting newspapers and are going to book a paper skip at Toothill Village Centre soon."

Brendan Cracknell said the group had been collecting about information the

environment to put into a fact pack and were thinking of publishing a newsletter.

APES have been talking to Richard Keating, the Urban Fringe Officer at Thamesdown Council, about taking responsibility for the old agricultural pond which has been preserved in Kiln Park, off Beaumaris Road, Toothill.

"I'm really impressed by Martin's determination and organisation," said Richard. "The pond belonged to Whitehill Farm and still has a role. It attracts a variety of bird, animal, insect and plant life and it represent a bit of history in the area. The Council is keen to involve local people in managing wildlife habitats and it's nice to have the interest from 12 to twenty year olds."

"Energy without End" A talk by Trevor Houghton from the Bristol Energy Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation in the Home Tuesday 16th January, 8p.m.

Friends Meeting House Eastcott Hill, Swindon For more information, contact David Searby on 875516

David Peacock, Commercial Director with The British Paper& Board Industry Federation based in Westlea sets out some facts about paper consumption in the U.K. The Link Magazine has recently featured several pages on how this locality can help in the campaign to conserve the world's resources by recycling. The Trade Association for the British Paper and Board Industry, after ll7years in London, became a West Swindon ratepayer in July 1988, and having read your earlier articles with interest we thought your readers would be interested in knowing a little more about our industry and its activities in the field of recycling.

1. This year UK will use nearly 10 million tonnes of paper and board or about 145 kgs per head (putting us 4th in the world with USA, Sweden and Holland as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd).

2. UK will manufacture this year about 4.5 million tonnes, exporting about 20% (0.9 million tonnes).

3. We will therefore import about 6 million tonnes or 63% of what we use.

4. Out of the 10 million usage, perhaps 40% cannot be recovered (toilet paper, cigarette paper, car parts, books, paper contaminated in various ways, paper burned etc.)

Of the remaining 60%, nearly half is recovered or 3 million tonnes: 2& million is recycled here, Y2 million exported to be recycled elsewhere.

5. More than half the paper and board made in UK isbased on waste paper or has a high waste content.

6. The main uses for waste are in

BPBIF Director General Jeffery Bartlett, left, outside Paperinakers House in Westlea, with David Peacock

packaging boards and papers, newsprint and tissues.

7. Newspapers and magazines from households are likely to be needed in increasing quantities in the next two or three years.

Two final points about trees: a) They do have to be cut down to make pulp (and wood for construction, of course) but the trees used for the purpose - mainly overseas -are replaced so that more wood is always growing than is being used: think of trees as a crop. b) Tropical hardwoods are not good for papermaking so the blame for the destruction of Brazilian rainforests does not lie at our door!

Preserving an ancient woodland for future generations Helen Plenty describes the work of a group of volunteers who are bringing a West Swindon woodland area back to life for the community

It's a year since the Peatmoor Woodland Group first set foot in the copse atPeatmoor (nearShaw) and decided just how it was goingto accomplish the task of managing the area. Only a handful of members remain and we're looking for others to join us.

However we are still working in the wood as anyone who lives locally and has taken the time to read the notice board by the entrance will know.

We are now in our second coppice season, which involves the cutting back of trees to ground level in order to open up the canopy of the wood so that more light can reach the floor. This encourages a wider variety of plants and animals. All the trees cut in this way regrow once spring arrives so it is not as drastic as it sounds.

New planting of trees is also planned for this season in last year's coppiced area, including oaks (which are not cut down) so that a balance of tree species is maintained.

A great deal of other work also remains to be done so that the wood can be opened to the public for their enjoyment. Plans include laying a footpath through the wood,the completion of hedge laying around the perimeter to prevent 'informal' access and short cuts which will damage the wood, the creation of a pond for wildlife. A survey of birdlife to be undertaken bya local Ornithologist group and the placing of bird and bat boxes to provide new habitats and encourage breeding are also in in hand. There's also a lot of tidying and general rubbish clea ring to be done as well.

The group wants to meet other people willing to volunteer some time to help make the Peatmoor Woodland a natural resource for the whole community. We meet on the first Sunday of the month at 10a.m. On Sunday 7 January and 4 February, we will be finishing off the coppicing work and planting trees.

Come along on a Sunday or give me a call on 886236 after 5p.m. for a chat about what the group does.

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NEWS & VIEWS Big raffle for children with special needs Children with special needs at Westlea School could be £1,500 better off if the community joins in with a grand draw for £250 worth of prizes

Following the raffle for a test January and will run until June.

Prize vouchers to the value of match cricket bat during the autumn, local insurance brokers £250 has been sponsored by Mansfield Begbie Associates have Mansfield Begbie Associates, who decided to sponsor a major fund will also be covering the cost of raising event every six months printing 4,000 tickets. A first prize which involves local people in a is a voucher worth £150 against goods at the Early Learning good cause.

Following a suggestion by The Centre. The second prize is £50 Link, Mike Rees, a director with and there are five runner up Mansfield Begbie Associates vouchers of £10 each.

"I very much hope that this living in Sparcells, has been planning a raffle with staff at venture will get the support of Westlea School which starts in local people," said Mike Rees.

"Children with special educational needs from all over West Swindon attend the school.

Right now we need people to sell the tickets so that we can reach our target of £1,500. Please come forward."

Neil Griffiths, headteacher at Westlea School, said he was delighted that a local business was taking an interest in helping children who needed more

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resources to assist their development. "We feel an important part of the community and it's rewarding to know that a local business reflects the same attitude."

Mr Griffiths said the school presently needed specialised equipment such as a jumbo typewriter, a headphone system and special gardening tools for children in wheelchairs, as well as many other items.

Readers who are willing to sell raffle tickets are asked to contact Neil Griffiths on 870469, Mike Rees on 873369 or Roger Ogle of The Link magazine on 872282 to offer their help. *The Allied Dunbar Charitable Trust recently donated £800 to Westlea School so that a greenhouse large enough to permit wheelchairs to enter can be bought.

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Alex Mortimer and sister Helen thank Mike Rees for organising the grand draw for the bat Mike is holding A cricket bat signed by players in individual programme of the 1989 English and Australian exercises and physiotherapy to test teams has been raffled with assist Alex's development. the proceeds of over £1,000 being Expressing her appreciation of donated to a fund for Alex the fund raising on behalf of Alex, Mortimer, a child with Cerebral his mother Vera said the whole Palsy living in Stratton St. family wanted to thank all the Margaret. people who had donated to the The bat was acquired by Mike raffle so generously, and to Mike Rees, a director with local Rees of Mansfield Begbie insurance agents Mansfield Associates for their sponsorship.

Begbie Associates, through his contacts with Cornhill Insurance, No relation sponsors of test cricket.

In last months edition we The winner was Mrs Wendy published a photograph of Mike Cohn of Swindon who, not being Rees of Mansfield Begbie a cricket follower, sold the bat Associates presenting a cheque back to Mike Rees so that it can be for £50 to the Shaw Lollipops auctioned at another function in parent and toddler group. the New Year.

Unfortunately the photo' Alex, who is two and a half, caption read that Mike was receives help from the Brain presenting the cheque to Debbie Injury Rehabilitation and Rees which was not the case. The Development Centre in Chester Lollipops organiser receiving the which has given his parents an cheque was Debbie Griffiths.

NEWS &VIEWS 21 Sculpture gets a name - Mayor to unveil on 20th January In last months edition, Tim Sandys-Renton described his new sculpture which is to be located on the Shaw Ridge open space, above the houses of Ramleaze.

When he wrote his article Tim had not decided upon a title for the seven foot tall work which is cast in metal. After much deliberation he has named it 'How the Mighty Fall.'

The sculpture consists of wing of some flying machine half buried in the hillside and a pair of wheels. An oversize human torso, arms spread, is imprinted upon the surface of the wing whilst enormous footprints are to be found in the tops of the wheels.

The new sculpture which will join the three large works in other

parts of West Swindon, which havebeen funded by the Southern Arts Association, will be unveiled the Mayor of Thamesdown, Coun Ken Savage this month.

Link Centre Arts co-ordinator Mel Jones is organising the opening event and is keen that West Swindon people join in with the ceremony. "Tim's work will be installed in a couple of weeks time and the Mayor will unveil the sculpture at 12.30p.m. on Saturday 20th January. I hope that anybody who is interested will join us on Shaw Ridge."

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Mini-racers of Upper Shaw Farm A group dedicated to fast, exciting car racing is looking for new members to join them.

The Swindon Mini Stock racing club meets twice a month at Upper Shaw Farm community centre for a series of radio controlled races round an oval track with their 1/12th size battery powered models.

The club has been going for nearly two years and has 15 members at present. "It's the cheapest form of model car racing," said club organiser MiKe Dillow, in between heats. "The model and the radio control unit can be bought for under £100.

When we meet everybody is able to race several times in the evening. It's fast, furious and good fun."

The mini stocks club is looking for males or females of any age who would like to join them on a Wednesday evening between 7p.m. and 10p.m., twice a month.

For dates of the next meetings, ring Richard Rowles, club secretary, on 854498.

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Upper Shaw Farm racers, from right, Richard Rowles, Robert Sawyer, Paul Ash, Kevin Dent, Wayne Prosser, Paul Johnson Scrabble players wanted

A new club is being planned for scrabble enthusiasts.

Jan Jandrell of Langstone Way, Westleawantsto meet other people who enjoy playing and would like to get together regularly for a game.

She can be contacted on 872693.

Late Xmas presents for colouring competition winners It was very hard to choose the winners in the Christmas Colouring Competition sponsored by Mansfield Begbie Associates in the December edition.

Vouchers worth £15, £10 and £5 to be spent in the Early Learning Centre have been sent to: Under 7s: 1St Victoria Speakman, Alpine Close, Ramlea7e 2nd Kimberley Moore, Chaigrove Field, Freshbrook 3rd Sandie Smith, Silchester Way, Westlea Over 7's: 1st Emma Gibbons, Chudleigh, Freshbrook 2nd Lee Walford, Markenfield, Toothill 3rd Ian Townsend, The Elms, Shaw

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With work on Britain's largest Chinese restaurant nearing completion, on the edge of Peatmoor Lagoon between Shaw and Sparcells, we take a look at

Dream that's coming true for Lawrence The start on building 'The Chinese Experience' on 18 March 1989 marked a major milestone for Lawrence Lee, the restauranteur behind the scheme to build Britain's largest Chinese restaurant.

Having lived in Swindon project. Not only will The for twenty years he and Chinese Experience be a his wife had a dream of major tourist attraction, running a restaurant it will also be a place offering genuine Chinese offering a new kind of cuisine, at a modest menu at reasonable prices. investment of around "In China there are over £300,000. Five years after 80 styles of cooking, but considering his first plans, within the Chinese Lawrence is heading a community throughout consortium of business- the world, Cantonese men backinga £1.6 million cooking is the most

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popular." said Lawrence.

"It is noted for the freshness of ingredients, good presentation and the consistent taste wherever it is served.

"Cantonese cooking is not well known outside Chinatown in the big cities. Most takeaways and provincial restaurants serve a westernised style of Chinese cooking. We will be offering genuine Chinese cooking in authentic surroundings.

The restaurant will be a big attraction for the Chinese community as well."

The appearance of his restaurant is very important to Mr. Lee. "Inside you will think you are in a Hong Kong restaurant, but it won't be too posh. And from the outside you will know you are approaching a Chinese building.

"Our first plans were turned down by Mr. Trewhella at the Council's Planning Department. He wanted to see a sweeping roof with animals at the corners and also red columns by the front door, and a green roof. He had done his homework; its more Chinese than our original plan, and more expensive to build."

With such a big project, readers may be put off by the idea that it will cost a lot to visit The Chinese Experience, but Lawrence says that this won't be the case.

"We're not going to be expensive, that's for sure.

We will serve high quality Chinese food at reasonable prices. We want people to come back often."

The opening date for The Chinese Experience is set for the end of April 1990

A taste of the interior decor in traditional red and gold

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Problem for the planners How Chinese should a Pagoda be, if it is to be built in this country?

The question had to be answered

by Thamesdown Council's Planning Committee when it considered the application to build a large Chinese restaurant next toPeatmoorLagoon in June1987.

The question will soon be answered when The Chinese Experience opens in late April.

The Committee was concerned that the prominentand important site should ha ye the right building on it and asked the developers and architects to make the building recognisably Chinese to give astrong impact at the eastern end of the lake.

Alan Watson, a partner with the Swindon firm Wyvern Partnership which also designed, by contrast, Holy Trinity Church at Shaw Village Centre, believes that the

right balance has been struck.

"It's a building that will be appreciated by people as being in a 'Chinese style.' Cost, construction methods and safety requirements would not have made an exact copy desirable.

"Our brief was to provide the external shell and to give it a particular appearance. The developers will be fitting out the facilities and I expect the internal atmosphere will give visitors an authentic 'Chinese Experience'."

Finding the right building materials has provided Wyvern Partnership with an interesting search. "No one in this country makes coloured, glazed roof tiles with the right shape, so we have had to look overseas," said Mr. Watson. "We found a supplier in France, but we have finallysettled on bringing them in from Japan."

Although the pagoda style

building is being built around a steel frame, its external walls will be timber clad and painted in traditional Chinese colours of reds, greens and yellow. The roof will also be ornamented with dragon, lions, fish and other animals that are usually found decorating buildings in the Orient.

These will imported from Hong Kong, whilst hand painted decorative panels forming a continuous frieze around the walls, will come from Taiwan.

A small open sided pagoda, to be placed on an island opposite the main building will also be imported, but as a complete, fibreglass unit.

'The Chinese Experience' will join the other unusual buildings dotted around West Swindon.

Unlike the others, this one will bring a taste of a different culture into our midst.

24 An Apple Macintosh II colour computer worth over ÂŁ3,000 was donated to a local school in December in recognition of its large investment in a new computer system last year.

The opening of a new science block at Greendown Community School prompted the purchase of 34 Apple computers, adding to an existing network of eighty BBC micro computers.

Swindon Apple dealer Joint Venture Systems won the contract to supply the computers following a suggestion by the editor of The Link magazine, which is produced on a Mac. At a presentation in December, Mike Milton for JVS said his company was very pleased to be involved with a progressive school like Greendown. "This represents our biggest installation of Macs in education and is the largest in a Wiltshire school."

Tim Bums, Regional Education Manager for Apple Computer UK, said his company was sponsoring the colour computer at Greendown because of the impressive investment made by the school. "More and more schools are turning to the Apple Macintosh because of their ease of use and the fact that they are increasingly to be found in the workplace. We're delighted to

NEWS & VIEWS Apples bear fruit at Greendown

Headteacher Ian Matthews, left, receives a Macintosh II mouse from Tim Burns of Apple Computer flanked by Janet Duffield of Joint Venture Systems, Ray Barker director of computing at Greendown and Ed Larkin, Wiltshire Education Authority Information Technology Advisor, and Greendown fourth years. be associated with developments control of its own budget, I've in information technology at been using one to calculate the cost of running Greendown more Greendown."

Headteacher Ian Matthews ex- accurately and it has been saving plained that the school had gone us money already."

The Macintosh computers are for the Macintosh because they are easy to use but very sophisti- used by students in a variety of cated. "Students can start using subjects includinggraphic design, them with little instruction and graph calculation and desktop are able to produce very high publishin; they are also used by quality work. As a school in adults in evening classes.

Boat exhibition stretches students The results of a project by 170 first years were put on display at Greendown School in December.

The annual boa tshow for parents and local business people is the culmination of a six week module which brings together a whole range of studies according to headteacher Ian Matthews. "The students had to design, make and testa prototype boat; then they have to writeup their results and present all their work in a display. Maths, science, technology, workshop practice, computer work, writing and marketing have all been involved in the learning process."

Parents and invited guests from industry toured the boat show displays and talked to the youngsters about their work.

Andrew Wallace from Intergraph on Great Western Way, who used to work as a yacht designer, said he was very impressed by the effort and the achievement of the youngsters. "It's the sort of project which gives a good understanding of the different stages involved in a practical project."

Peter Wilkes, who built and displayed his model boat with friends Kieth Angell and Gavin Klulowski, said the work had been hard but great fun because they had to get everything done in time for the visit by the adults.

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A voluntary group which re-cycles old tools for workers in third world countries has started a monthly workshop in West Swindon.

Tools for Self-Reliance is a national charity which aims to help people in poor countries to help themselves by providing them with the tools to do the job. The Swindon group has started to use workshop facilities at Greendown Community School on the first Saturday of each month where they clean and refurbish donated tools which can be assembled into kits and sent out to countries like Tanzania, Nicaragua, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Local coordinator Julie Smith is Andy Tomkins sharpening tools with very pleased that the group can use Julie Smith at Greendown Greendown. "We were approached by the school with an Reliance group needs more tools offer we couldn't refuse," said Julie. for their work, especially for "The work benches, drills and carpentry and blacksmithing, grinding tools have expanded our which will allow people to make capabilities greatly. All our tools their own new tools. At a recent go to cooperatives, villages or exhibition in the West Swindon training centres and we try to get library, about half a dozen tools feedback from the users so that we were collected for re-cycling. can learn about how they live and To find out more about the group how they use the tools we send. It's ring Julie Smith on 52118 or Andy an important link for us."

Tomkins on 694550. They will also The Swindon Tools for Self collect tools for re-cycling.

NEWS & VIEWS 25 Morrison Masters' in West Annual Majorette Awards Swindon: The First Six Years David Jackman, an occasional contributor to these pages, is returning to his firm's main office after 6 years in their premises in the Town Square at the West Swindon Centre. Douglas Hughes, his partner, takes over.

Here, David Jackman looks back to 1983

I am still asked regularly "where exactly is your office?"

People are surprised that they have been entering and leaving the shopping centre for years without noticing us. (For those readers still looking, we are in the corner of Town Square tucked away between the estate agent and the carpet store).

Despite this minor difficultuy we have rarely been short of work since we opened in Autumn 1983. We expected, and received, a wide range of enquries from the rapidly expanding population and in those days, were helped enormously by recommen-dations from several of the builders of Grange Park, then under construction. The layout of the district made it perfect for cycling and I still recall the odd looks I got from clients and site agents when a mud-spattered solicitor with misty spectacles dismounted, notebook and visiting card in hand!

Informality was the key-note, though never 'over the top'. We have modern, open plan offices and, we hope, a welcoming and relaxed approach which has helped break down the traditional stuffy image of an old-fashioned Law office; very important in a practice serving predominantly younger people in their legal needs, although we now have many older and retired clients as well.

Town Square in 1983 was still under construction. The Halifax came first, followed by the Bank and the Estate Agents and us. We were all 'new boys' so not unnaturally we would meet and swap experiences (though not professional secrets!) over a hot lunch in the Harvester - there was still room to relax there at lunchtime and I have the fondest memories of Janet Horsley's superb curries and chillies.

The Link Centre was the next great development; clearly visible from my

The Mayor and Mayoress of Thamesdown joined the Majorettes on their award night. Seen here with the GWR Ducks are Majorettes of the year, Abigail Parson, left, Stephanie Fisher, centre and Ruth Ashton

David Jackinan, right, hands over to Douglas Hughes window it seemed to grow before my eyes. While argument continues over its appearance, none can deny its practicality. I was quickly drawn to the new library (my children love the skating) but soon began taking a regular lunchtime swim and latterly a 'work-out' (known locally as the "chub-club") - the first regular exercise since my school days!

A recent review of our requirements means I am now based in Swindon Town Centre, but the experience drawn and lessonsleamed in (a) opening a new office and (b) being part of the West Swindon phenomena will remain.

West Swindon will go on growing and will continue to have growing pains for many years yet. Signs of maturity are already emerging, however; it is as green and leafy as many 1930's suburbs and it is a marvellous area in which to walk, as well as to make your home. I may move backand readers will once again be subjected to my legal agony column!

A season to start a new decade The spring season at the Wyvern Theatre is once again an absolute panorama of entertainment, full of fresh and varied talent with something for everyone.

Itcommences with the first classical musicperformancesof the 1990's from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra followed by a series of dance and mime evenings. Kokuma Performing Arts will be performing their latest production of 19 January and the following evening Kokuma will present Vibrations with local school and dance students.

On 29 January, the well-known mime artist David Glass and his new ensemble presents the first ever staging of the world-famous comic strip character Popeye.

Musical tastes are well catered for.

Chas 'n' Dave, the Syd Lawrence Orchestra, Des O'Conner and Ruby

West Swindon' GWR Majorette troupe held its Annual Awards Evening in December at Freshbrook Community Centre. During the year, points were given to majorettes for aspects of performance including dress, effort and attendance in different age categories, and for the band and the marchers. Winners of awards included: Effort: Nichola Ham, Sarah Sherwood, Chantelle Eddy, Teresa Baker, Marie Skeffington, Samantha Heatman Overall effort: Gemma Pixton Attendance: Christopher John Revellette of the year. Stephanie Fisher Reveller of the year. Ruth Ashton Band member of the year. Abigail Parsons Parents who helped: Viv Dipper, Corinna John, Josie Heatman, Connie Parsons, Carol Cheese and Jenny Newel

Turner revisit the Wyvern.

International entertainers Buddy Greco, Marty Wilde and Eartha Kitt will also be calling in.

For lovers of the classics, Richard Baker will bepresenting a Grand Tour of Melody. Julian Bream, the Vienna Boys Choir and Opera 80 are more of the attractions to look forward to.

Youngsters can look forward to a swashbuckling spectacular in Treasure Island and BBC TVs favourite moggy Henry's Cat will be taking to the stage live.

For drama enthusiasts the Temba Theatre Company will be visiting Swindon again and Alan Ayckbourn's best-loved play Absurd Person Singular is programmed, as well as a new comedy by Donald Churchill entitled The Decorator.

All in all, the Spring Season at the Wyvern sets the scene for the '90s.

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NEWS & VIEWS

26

Funny air waves

Long range Link The reach of The Link magazine is extending beyond West Swindon.

Steve Wakefield, co-ordinator of Thamesdown Council's Homeline telephone welfare support service recently received a Freepost letter from Bahrain requesting information about Homeline for somebody living in Swindon.

"We were impressed by The Link's distribution around the

world," said Steve. "A copy with an advertisement for Homeline must been sent out to the Gulf by a friend or relation living in West Swindon, and the person who received must have thought Homeline would have been a good service foranother relative living in the town.

"What's amazing, we weren't charged for receiving a letter

without a stamp on it."

Editor's Note; We are more than happy to provide extra copies of The Link to any readers who want to send copies to friends and relatives in other parts of the country or abroad.

A signpost

A Freshbrook mum has a curious Maria Grime from Swindon's way of picking up GWR FM. Volunteer Bureau describes how "1 used to listen to GWR all the it helps put people willing to offer time," said Mandy Fisher of their voluntary effort in touch with Adwalton Close. "Eversincethey the organisations who need it. switched to FM and made way Happy New Year! Now that the for Brunel Radio, I've not been festive season is over perhaps you able to receive it on our music are wondering what new centre unless I park the pram in direction your life is going to take. the middle of the lounge. If the The Volunteer Bureau can be your wind is blowing the other way, I link to new friends, new skills have to put the pram next to the and fun, whilst helping others. music centre.

Try answering the following "1 can't find Wiltshire Sound questions to see if volunteering is on the dial and Brunel is not as for you. good. I don't see why I have to *WHO? spend ÂŁ50 on an aerial for the Who can volunteer? Anyone can roof. We can't afford it anyway. volunteer.

Michael is growing out of the From young people to older pram and it'll have to go, so I Mandy Fisher, trying to pick up may have to give up on GWR GWR FM with help from her son people, able bodied people to people with disabilities. Whether Michael completely."

AnengineeratGWRFM said large metal objects help to focus the signal and the chrome on the pram must be doing the job. "The An Ode 97.2 signal serving Swindon is very strong so I'm surprised there to Swindon Town is a reception problem. The Lacock transmitter gives a Steve Clarke of Freshbrook wanted to weaker signal if the radio was mark the start of the 1990's by going into tuned to 102.2.

print

I live in Swindon Town - it ain't near the coast

WRIGHT PLANNING SERVICES

P B PLUMBING SERVICES

Building Plans prepared, Planning & Building Regulation Approvals obtained

You can buy a gun or even buy a book.

Now, I live in Freshbrook - that is in the West

"All the headaches taken out of your hands"

All work undertaken by fully qualified engineer.

Telephone Steve Wright on

Swindon 871553

But it has many things of which we can boast, It don't cost a lot, to go and see 'um.

There is Brunel - who stands so straight and tall Just upon the edge of our shopping Mall There's shopping in the Old Town - that is worth a look

Boilers Serviced Pump Fitting Service Water Softners Fitted Washing Machines & Dishwashers Installed

Telephone: (0793) 642995

Quality Pine Furniture 1E1 Probably the best collection of QUALITY PINE FURNITURE in the West Country, at the most competitive prices. Come and see for yourself. Most items are immediately from stock. Credit terms available.

swold e

33 (;klad, Road, Gorse Hill, Swindon.

Tel 511898 Open Monday to Friday 930am - Spm Closed Wednesdayr

And I must say - that it seems the best.

We have got a Link (not the missing one) Where you can go and really have some fun There's ice skating there - although it does seem cold It caters for the young - and also the old.

You can play some pool, or snooker if you like Or go for a ride - on an exercise bike, There's swimming, where you can get wet Then there's squash - you might win a set.

We've even got a Windmill - I would like to say Once I tried to charge it - like Don - that's Quixote I have seen a brand new church, being built this way Every time I see it - it grows some more each day.

Then there is the M4, maybe a stones throw It is very useful - where 'ere you want to go.

We have got a magazine, it's also called 'The Link' You would find it very good - and helpful I should think It's got information, tips and local news And there is a letters spot - so you can give your views.

My wife was barr, in Swindon Town, over, cough, cough, years ago Then I moved up from sunny Devon - we married don't you know And now we've got our 'pigeon pair', that's Des and Sheena too Now I thought that I would write, this poem just for you I have been known to write an ode - for a special time My wile says - I could earn a lot- but I ain't had a dime.

NEWS & VIEWS

27

for a new direction

Nice machine, doubtful marketing

you are working at home with the family, or in an office or factory there is an opportunity for you to help. If you are unemployed or on other benefits you all have much to offer.

The marketing techniques of a company selling Kirby vacuum cleaners has been criticised by a Freshbrook resident.

Steve Smith of Wentworth Park, like many other people living in the area, was rung up just after Christmas and told he had won accommodation for a holiday in Spain or Malta. The other ten householders in his Close were also told the same. However to get the holiday vouchers he had to agree to a home demonstration of the vacuum cleaner. So he invited three of his neighbours to see the machine put through its paces.

"I don't like the way the company is marketing its machine," said Steve. "Firstly, I object to having a card thrust at me on the doorstep and being told that some company is being promoted in the area. Then I was telephoned and told that I've won a holiday. In fact I was only being offered a holiday if I took a demonstration of an all-singing, alldancing vacuum cleaner. It's a bit misleading. I've also heard that other people have had great pressure put on them to buy it."

The makers claim that the Kirby will outlast any other vacuum and because of the way it cleans, it extends the life of carpets. However the machine is priced at over ÂŁ800.

"1 was impressed by the machine, and the demonstrator didn't come over with any slick patter," said Steve Smith. "But, if people want to see what it will do, I suggest they guard against pressure selling techniques by inviting friends and neighbours for moral support."

*WHAT COULD! DO? Almost anything you can think of, especially with training and support.

Looking after children in a creche or playgroup. Visiting older people in their own homes or in hospital. Joining social activities groups for people experiencing mental health difficulties, or people with physical disabilities, people with learning difficulties and people who have had strokes. Group work with young people who have had emotional difficulties.

Help out at a youth club, Meals on Wheels, office work, counselling, charity shop, etc, etc Over eighty organisations ask for help. *WHEN? When can I do voluntary work?

Whether you have one hour per week or ten hours to offer this will be welcomed at any time of the day or night. The Samaritans provide a 24 hr service, you might give someone a lift to the Stroke Club one evening per week.

Meals on Wheels are on rota system, you need offer only one lunch time per week. The Well Woman Centre's rota may come round once every three weeks.

The Prospect Foundation offer a night sitting service.

Aft Share s.e1:1.,.v9

ff

Maria Grime, ready to make the connection for you

*WHERE Where will I have to go?

Anywhere. In your locality, the centre of Swindon, or the other side of town, wherever you can get to either by car, bus, bike or walking. Most organisations offer travelling expenses.

*WHY

Didn't get any Water Shares? Well, own a bit of Windmill Hill Business Park instead.

The model used to market the Park during the mid-1980's has been donated to Windmill Hill Primary School which is stripping the assets to benefit school funds.

Now you can have an architects fantasy or a carbuncle in miniature for your train set or the mantlepiece.

The buildings will be on display in The Mall at the Link Centre from Monday 8 to Friday 19 January. Bids for a share using the share application form below must be returned by 20th January.

Below: Rika Matsuoka, Hannah Stewart, Lisa Home and Lee Jones show off some of the buildings being offered for auction

Why do voluntary work? Here are just a few reasons borrowed from people visiting the Volunteer Bureau. 'Some spare time'; 'I want to help'; 'Gain experience for a job'; 'Thinking of a career change'; 'Recent bereavement'; 'Build some self 'confidence'; 'Bored'; 'A break from being a carer'; 'Do my bit'; etc. etc.

ARE YOU READY FOR AN INFORMAL CHAT? Please contact Maria Grime at the Volunteer Bureau 47/48 Fleet Street, Swindon Telephone 538398/9

R.T. FARLEY Landscape Gardener in West Swindon 20 years of experience.

Turfing, Paving, Fencing, Planting New Gardens.

Rockery Construction, Pergolas etc.

Tel: 875174

OGGLEBOX

WINDMILL HILL BUSINESS PARK SHARE APPLICATION FORM I am prepared to pay ÂŁ

Specialists in video & TV repairs Free home estimates All work guaranteed Service from 8am - 9pm NO CALL OUT CHARGE

for model number

Name: Address:

Tel: Return this form to The Link Magazine, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook first post 20th January 1989

IJ,

_1

NEWS & VIEWS 28 More health on the way Cultured Eddie is the Vulture A super confident Eddie Burnett who lives on Liskeard Way, Freshbrook was voted the Culture Vulture of the year by readers of the Evening Advertiser, and he thought he was going to win from the beginning.

Being picked to take part in April 1989 was an unusual experience in itself according to Eddy. "I was on my way to lunch and I was tapped on the shoulder by this women in hat and scarf. I really thought it was one of those religious freaks wanting to convert me!"

It turned out to be EA feature writer Ruth Callard-Rogers out on the street recruiting people with style to be interviewed for her Culture Vulture column in the Thursday edition, which ran throughout last year.

Fame is not new to Eddie following an appearance on ITV's Blind Date in October which he didn't win. However he set out to capture the Vulture award by telling all his work colleagues and

West Swindon's first Health Road Show on 5 and 6 December could be the start of regular events to promote healthy lifestyles in the area.

The Roadshow was also a first time initiative by health visitors working in WestSwindon who took it in turns to talk to people about diet, exercise, smoking drinking and stress.

Apart from a display of information, a range of healthy foods were set out and equipment was on hand to give an indication of health and well-being.

"We thought it was a very worthwhile exercise," said health visitor Janet Ascherson. "The people who came to talk to us were keen to find out how they could cut down on smoking for example, or to alter their diet. A lot of visitors filled in the healthy eating quiz and those who tried the machines were sometimes surprised by the results.

Smokers especially found out how much harder their heart has to work to supply their bodies with oxygen by blowing into the carbon monoxide analyser.

Eddie Burnett toasting himself overlooked by an Evening Advertiser employee

friends in The Harvester pub to vote for him.

"I was surprised at first to be picked as one of eleven finalists, but I'd like to thank all my supporters who voted for me," said Eddie.

SOFT WATER CENTRE Come and see our full range of Water Softeners including the NEW 19"HIGH PERMUTIT 2000E. DOMEXTRA, BRIJNER, PERMO, SEREIN AND EURO RANGE IN STOCK All at Unit 4, Oaklands Enterprise Estate, Braydon, Nr. Wootton Bassett. Open Saturdays ONLY 9.30am - 4pm.

Ring Swindon 853156 for further information or appointment.

RON AHRENS BUILDER & DECORATOR Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating, carpentry & plastering.

All work guaranteed. Nc5job too small.

Free estimates Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)

Left: Paula Clarke tries the smoke analyser with help from Jane Lyons, left, and Janet Ascherscm. Right: Susan Drew of the Lifestyle Unit tests George Mears

Andy gets his wheels Andy Blunt, a multiple sclerosis sufferer from Middleleaze was recently presented with a motorised wheelchair by the PHH company at Windmill Hill.

Staff at PHH raised ÂŁ3,600 at a Charity Auction in October. With cash raised at a summer fete they were also able to purchase two medical beds for Princess Margaret Hospital.

"The Roadshow idea gives people access to a wide range of health information in one place and the chance to talk to health workers without having to make an appointment. It's a good way of getting over the idea that your health is something that belongs to you. We can assist in making changes for the better."

The roadshow in December was an experiment to see whether others should be organised. "We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves," said co-organiserJane Lyons. We're very keen to organise another in the Spring."

Below: Andy rides away

— iTni

L4J I tiLTh1 I fM! I Electrical Contractor & Engineer Domestic, Commercial & Industrial installations Fire Alarm Installations 24 hour, 7 days a week call out service -No Job too big -No Job too small Economy 7 Total Heating A remarkably effiecient system that could change your mind about home heating

'Quality work Guaranteed 'Competitive rates Tel: Swindon 870948

If you've got a West Swindon story, call The Link Magazine on 872282

Paved with Good Intentions Laying agardenpath is something lots of householders will be thinking about for the spring weekends (in a couple of months I) Claire Beaton has a few tips.

Many new houses today come supplied with a landscaped garden. This usually means that the builder lays a strip of slabs outside the patio windows, levesl the remainder and covers it with turf. Therefore one of the first tasks for the new householder is to site a clothes line or clothes post and then provide some sort of path to reach it.

Path building is a project frequently pencilled in for January. In summer, there are too many other jobs needing good weather; house painting, lawn mowing or sunbathing. Also, in January, the urgency of laying a path is more acute. The lawn is wet and the more it is walked on, the muddier it becomes. It is also harder to dig, as the soil clings to the spade and has to be scraped off in sodden lumps.

Laying paths is a project better left until the soil is dry enough for digging and some thought has been given to where it is to go.

Paths and patios are the strongest feature in a garden's design and form the skeleton of the plan around which the flower beds and lawn will shaped themselves.

Once they are built they are extremely hard to change so it is better to lay out your ideas on the ground first rather than hurry into making a mistake.

Meanwhile, to provide the access that is needed to the clothes line, lay a temporary path. This can be as simple as a length of plastic netting pegged over the lawn to spread the load of the feet tramping back and forth. Laid down early enough it will prevent the lawn becoming tracked with a muddy path. If that has already happened, it is possible to buy a roll-out path which is made of plastic slats linked together and unrolls much as a rope ladder does. Or it is possible to make one by threading or stapling wooden slats onto clothes line.

Another possibility is to buy a bag (or two) of chipped bark that can be spread over rougher ground to make a path. This type of path will last longer if wooden screeds are pegged to either side to stop the bark spreading.

Having a temporary path will allow you to see if it is in the right place and give time to choose materials. Although a path is

HOME & GARDEN Heating Systems takes on Calor A local supplier of multi-fuel stoves and flame effect fires has taken on the distribution of Calor Gas for the Swindon area.

Heating Systems Limited, based at the Orbit Centre off the Great Western Way, has established a strong reputation as experts in the supply and installation of cast iron, multi-fuel stoves and flame effect gas fires.

Their showroom at the Orbit Centre is packed with different kinds of fires and stoves and after recent conversion, now includes a range of Calor Gas appliances, from cookers to bottled gas fires.

Commenting on the new distributorship, Stephen Kieth, regional manager for Calor Gas, said his company was pleased with the new arrangement. "We're delighted to join forces with Heating Systems. Calor is the market leader in bottled gas and working together I'm sure we will be developing its use."

Calor Gas can be supplied in a variety of different bottle sizes and can be used in a great range of appliances. Cabinet heaters are probably the most common use, but calor gas can be used in fixed fires, barbecues, cookers and DlYtools. Most are on display in the Heating Systems Showroom.

Telephone orders for gas can be made at anytime and deliveries from a depot in Swindon are guaranteed within 24 hours.

Bob Penfold, proprietor of Heating Systems Limited, said that taking over Calor Gas distribution in the Swindon area had doubled the size of the business with supplies going to 40 stockists up to twenty miles away. However, he says the West Swindon market is an important one, 'A lot of households with

29

Stephen Kieth of Calor Gas, right,

toasts the opening of the new needed between two points, it showroom with Bob Penfold does not need to be constructed heating have a cabinet heater to all of the same material, or even give a radiant heat, as well appear as a continuous path. In providing a back-up in an fact to avoid doing so is a very emergency. An investment of good way to make the garden £60 is a good insurance against appear larger than it is. The one unforeseen powercuts. rule is to keep the materials you "There are also many people do choose to the same style. Thus, living in houses or flats without if you already have riven stone central heating and Calor Gas is near the house, mix it with some a real alternative. We have a brick-style concrete payers or wide range of appliances in the perhaps some random flags laid display at our showroom close to through a gravelled area. If you West Swindon. It's worth a visit." prefer the intricate spanish style of coloured paving, set it off with path with a simple brushed finish, or some of the simple small scale 'S 'S concrete paving cobbles that are now available. All the manufacturers have leaflets illustrating the many possibilities.

Avoiding the appearance of a DECORATOR continuous path is achieved by with over 30 years experience. thinking of what the path is to be used for and who will be using it.

Craftsman in Paint and Decor It could be that your clothes post is at the bottom of the garden because it is the sunniest place.

SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, In which case it is also a good Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes. place to build a small patio where you can sit in the sun or the children can play. If the path runs alongside a flower border, that part of the path can be built as an edging to the bed. In this S.S.S.'SS. S. S. 'S S. S. 'S S. S. S. S. S. S.S.S.'S'S'S'S'S'SS.S. S.'SS. S.'S'S% way you can define the different parts of the 'path' by its use and .......u...... . . . .•••1•.•U.I•U••••• then construct each part in the • . .I . . . .. . U '- U ..• . . r• U materials to suit that use but yet • 4 A 1 I-I I& I%II 1II-1II-E I'. LtT U I •,I'VLFUI IUl1 share a common style.

TOOL AND PLANT If you need fresh air after ••/ Christmas, try visiting the garden centres and builders' merchants : to see what they stock and take away a few leaflets.

'S

'S

Raymond Stansfield

:>, Telephone: (0 7(13) 874299

:• • --

And If you don't want to do It yourself, give Ray Farley from Shawa call on 875174.

WIth 20 years In the landscaping business, he knows a thing a two about laying paths and patios

ito

r

EASY PARKING - COLLECTION/DELIVERY SERVICE MON-FRI. Barn - 6pm; SAT. 8am - 5pm Unit 9, Marlborough Road Industrial Estate, Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire SN48AX Tel: Swindon 854821

•:

:

Quiz for video exercises brain cells We received 54 entries for The Link magazine cryptic clues quiz published in the Decemberedition, some arriving within moments of the draw taking place.

We must admit it was a tough one and couldn't complete it ourselves.

(We were given the answers just before the closing date. ) On the completed forms, questions 22 and 26 caught quite a few people out.

One entrant shouted at us from his car after delivering his form to The Link address, "It's a lot to ask for a video!"

Another triumphantly wrote on his form, "Drove me crazy, but I got the lot.'

E.A. Maloney of Freshbrook included a note of thanks. "What an

excellent com petition. We thoroughly enjoyed thinking the answers through.

More of the same would be fantastic."

Sadly, we had only three prizes to offer in return for all the hard work, compliments of Video Solent at the West Swindon Centre.

The lucky people who had their forms drawn out by Video Solent manageress Sandra Kirby are: Christine Howe of Birdcombe Road, Westlea, who receives a brand new pre-recorded video film; Christine Willis, Aldborough Close, Eastleaze - two free new release video rentals; David Harris, Ascham Road, Grange Park - one free new release video rental.

For all the readers driven to varying levels of frustration and despair, here are the correct answers: Degrees in a Right Angle 1. 90=DinaRA Players in a Football Team 2. 11=PinaFT Wheel on a Uni-cycle 3. 1=WonaUC 4. 3=BM(Sl-ITR) Blind Mice (See How They Run) 5. 13= Son theAF Stripes on the American Flag Maximum Break in Snooker 6. 147=MBinS 7. 21=DonaD Dots on a Dice 8. 24=BBBinaP Black Birds Baked in a Pie Days in February (Except Leap Year) 9. 28=DinF(ELY) 10. 3=MinaB Men in a Boat 11. 32 = DF at which WF Degrees Fahrenheit at which Water Freezes 12. 1=PinaPT Partridge in a Pear Tree 13. 10,000 = M belonging to GOD of Y Men belonging to Grand Old Duke of York 14. 2,000-PinaTTB Perforations in a Tetley Tea Bag 15. 7=Wof the AW Wonders of the Ancient World 16. 9=Pin the SS Planets in the Solar System 17. 15=MonaDMC Men on a Dead Man's Chest 18. 40=DTatD Double Top at Darts 19. 22=YtoaCP Yards to Cricket Pitch 20. 99=lC with aF Ice Cream with a Flake 21. 21=SinaG Shillings in a Guinea 22. 40,000 = F on a TT Feathers on a Thrush's Throat 23. 2=GBinaB Game Birds in a Brace 24. 5=EB made F Enid Blyton Made Famous 25. 6=SonaC Sides on a Cube 26. 8 = SW plus SD Snow White plus Seven Dwarfs 27. 10=Cin the B Commandment in the Bible 28. 14=PinaS Pounds in a Stone 29. 26=MinaM Miles in a Marathon 30. 14= Lin aS(byWS) Lines in a Sonnet (by William Shakespeare) 31. 8=Tonan0 Tentacles on an Octopus 32. 3=CinaF Coins in a Fountain 33. 26=Lin the A Letters in the Alphabet 34. 12=Sin the Z Signs in the Zodiac 35. 10= GBH on the W Green Bottles Hanging on the Wall 36. 76 = T led the BP Trombones led the Big Parade And here's one more from Mr Fleming of Toothill - 24=C in PG. Answer on the opposite page.

For Sale: Double Electric Train set plus accessories £80.

Ice Hockey Skates, size 12 £15 LARGE Snooker table/legs £30 Sack Trolley £10 Wheelbarrow £15 Mini Metro roof-rack plus trailer hitch £25 Tel: 495140 eves/weekends Elsie Hazel Court Group Dwelling in Freshbrook has a large quantity of newspaper for re-cycling. Ring 873040 to collect.

For Sale: Two childrens BMX style bicycles for 5/6 years. £20 each.

Tel: 872282

• Letters to the Link.

Dog problems

From Mr J Adams of Bllomsbury I live in Grange Park, and like Close, Freshbrook many other areas around Swindon, our pathways, verges and walkways are absolutely disgusting, and are almost unfit for human beings especially children to walk along. Why? Because of the dog owners of the world. They must be a breed apart. Why do they let their dogs foul up the pathways and walkways like this, surely they must walk in 'it' as well when they take their dogs for a walk.

Why! Oh! Why! can't they let their dogs have their own patch in their own garden. Is this really too much to ask, so as to keep the lovely area we have to live in around here healthy for everyone including owners of dogs, because quite frankly at the moment we all take a terrible health risk every time we simply take a stroll.

Personally, on the path outside our house, it is sometimes impossible to walk because of dogs dirt. I have rung the Environmental Health Department several times, and although they are sympathetic there is not a thing they can do, unless I stand with my camera and take a photograph of the actual deed taking place, then I could get Legal Action taken against the offender. Even our local Labour Councillor can't do anything to help.

So is "Highlighting the Problem" (The Link no 93 December 1989) the answer? I don't think it is, but I can understand the frustration and anger these people are going through, because I feel the same.

The law or licensing has to be altered and adhered to by dog owners. The time has come when we can't sit back and let this go on any longer, something has to be done quickly.

Letters should be sent to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by the 20th of the month

Sparcells Under 5 Playgroup require an experienced supervisor to help a new playgroup start, Items for sale can be advertised in hopefully by March. Please write The Linkat 15p per word, inclusive with details of experience and of VAT. Cash with sale to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, qualifications to 7 Rinsdale Close, Sparcells by 20 January.

Swindon by 20th of the month.

Clothing Alterations & Repairs.

Tel: 872096 Mrs. White, Freshbrook

Road destruction

From Mrs B of Grange Park

Why was a connecting road built between Shaw and Freshbrook?

What was wrong with the old countryside road which passed via Lydiard Mansion?

The new road is badly sited and rarely used.

Why destroy yet another old meadow for car-lazy people and contraceptive tarmac?

Editors Note: The road replacing Hay Lane has been built to provide access to the new housing areas at The Prinnels, the green fields on either side of the new road which are to be built upon.

Hay Lane, which Mr Adams must admit was pretty dangerous will be turned into a footpath route.

The Windmill Pub From Cathy Baker of Loughborough Close, Grange Park (who was featured on the cover of the September edition) The Windmill Pub (formerly The Cornflower) at Freshbrook has been re-open now for approximately three months, and I think the general opinion is that its change of image has been a success.

I might add that with my two daughters doing so many activities after school these days, and the cold winter weather, it is a haven for people like me who have half an hour to kill in Freshbrook.

You will find me in the Children's Bar with my son sipping orange juice and watching cartoons on the T.V. at least once a week. It is a half-way house if you like - Oh! that would make a nice name. Perhaps I ought to write and let the Brewery know. They will probably want to re-decorate the Pub in a couple of years, and it seems only fitting that they should continue the trend and change the name as well! Mind you in our household we call the Pub something different every time we mention it. The Cornflower! The Winflower!! The Cornmill!! no o-not quite right yet - Ah! that's it THE WINDMILL.

Greendown Playgroup has a vacancy for a playg roup assistant.

Four mornings (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday) 9.15a.m. - 12.15p.m.

Apply to Mrs Goddard 874748.

Responsible person required to take elderly placid dog for midday walk. Old Shaw Lane area, 10 minutes, Monday - Thursday. Tel 876132 after 600p.m.

END PIECES

31

Westlea youngsters entertain Harmony lunch club The forty members of the Harmony Lunch Club which meets in the Community Suite at the Link Centre were entertained at their Christmas dinner by children from Westlea School.

An impressive rangeof raffle prizes weredonated to theclub including two first class tickets and two nights stay in a luxury hotel from British Rail. Other companies who donated prizes were Asda Superstores, Intergraph, Johnson Controls, Renault and Freshway Stores.

Thirty Westlea pupils played instruments and sang carols for the lunch club following the meal.

Kaye looks to readers for help A fitness instructor at the Link Centre is planning to wash a double decker bus all by herself

Above: Some of the musicians with members of the Harmony Lunch Club.

raise enough money to get to Australia.

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

- with a toothbrush- in her bid to Kaye Mortimer, who works in the health suite at the Centre, has been selected for a 10 week Operation Raleigh expedition to Northern Australia. But before she can go, she has to raise £2,200 towards the cost by May this year.

Operation Raleigh was initiated by the Prince of Wales some years ago to give young people a challenge in their lives whilst developing their self confidence and leadership abilities.

To be selected Kaye had to undergo a tough selection weekend of almost continuous physical and mental activity.

"The two days in North Devon were the wettest this year. In our group all our belongings were taken from us and mixed up, then we had to go on a route march carrying raft making equipment.

We were given a rabbit to skin and a few vegetables to eat, but had to make our own cooking pots from a few tins we were given. In the early hours, after only an hours sleep, we had to rush out and 'save an injured boy. Later on we had to give a talk on an interesting subject!

"I've never been so tired, wet and cold, but the assessors kept giving us puzzles and jobs to do.

At the same time they did everything they could to dishearten us, standing around in nice warm clothing and eating chocolates. It stretched us to the limits."

Having passed the first test, the next is to raise the money to

Anglican, Methodist, U.ItC., Baptist.

Toothill

Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park

MOBILE MECHANIC E COME TO YOU Non-Starts 'Servicing 'Tuning •M.O.T. Work 'Breakdowns 'Electrical Faults 'Clutches fitted

Rev. Tony Price 870244 Westlea

Rev. John Flory 770217 t Kaye Mortimer, getting fit for her expedition

go. Most other candidates have longer to raise their money but as Kaye specified Northern Australia, she has four months to bring in the cash before the expedition departs. She has been busily writing to local companies seeking sponsorship and hopes local people will back her fundraising efforts. She has been turning her dried flower arrangement hobby into a source of cash and has had the offer of a bus from Thamesdownlransport to wash in March.

In Australia Kaye will join about 50 others working on conservation, research and community projects.

On her return Kaye will give talks and slide shows about her experiences tcYher sponsors, local schools and community groups.

To contact Kaye about helping raise the funds she needs to go on a once in a liftetime trip, leave a message with Link Centre reception and she will return your call. Telephone 871212.

Are you new to West Swindon or need some information?

.

Pam Pixton, Arrivals Officer With the community Development Division at Thamesdown Council will visit you with a pack of information about the area. The other way of meeting her is to go along to one other weekly coffee mornings.

•Monday lOam - Noon - for peopie who don't have to bring children .Tuesday lOam - Noon for those with children. (Toys & refreshments).

•Both are held In the Community Suite at the Unk Centre.

To contact Pam, ring 695317 or 871212 ext 234.

PlO OJfld u! sieieo

:JeMsu''

Shaw and Sparceils

Rev. Keith Boxali 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

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Please Telephone 876211 ANYTIME

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You don't have to be suicidal to share your problems with us. Phone anytime day or night, or call into 6 Curtis Street, Swindon between 8am and 10pm

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