January 2000 Swindon Link

No. 212 • January 2000 • Circulation 20,000 a7

Always at your convenience 2, 4, 6 tonne skips Phone now on Swindon (01793) 496703

and the swindon wide what's on guide A message for the new age from Bishop Michael Doe, Bishop of Swindon on page 2

BOUGHT A COMPUTER FOR CHRISTMAS? Bookmark

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for easy access to Swindon's web site

Children of the 21st Century 1 Mahav,aja

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Visit the Out of Town Tandoori for a warm 21st Century welcome from Mr Ali and his staff Fully licensed restaurant.

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Hundreds of people took part in the Great Western Community Forest Millennium tree plant on 5 December. Pictured are William and Megan Truscott who will be in their fourties when their tree reaches maturity.

JANUARY

Some of the children who took part in the Feast of Life production to highlight the difference in wealth between rich and poor countries.

Rear, from left, Lisa Turner. Esther Surender, Rebekah Snook, Chantelle Williams, Gemma Scarisbrick, Rhiannon Ray. Front left, Jenny Snook, James Hall, Connie Roach, Megan Bryon. Front right, Amy Snook, Helen Barclay, Ashleigh Green.

Report on page 39 with Swindon People's Book of the Millennium

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000 CENTRAL HEATING

BREAKDOWN?

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Wishing well

PANIC

Bishop Michael Doe, Bishop of Swindon, welcomes you to the 21st Century

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NEW MILLENNIUM - NEW OPPORTUNITIES

THEATRE EXPRESS HELPS GROWTH & DEVELOPS POTENTIAL As seen on TV .. Spring Term starts January 2000 Theatre Express Performing Arts Schools & Theatre Company, has openings at its weekend performing arts schools, based in Swindon and Burford

Theatre Express is fun!

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Contact Theatre Express for a free prospectus. Tel/Fax: 01608 676024 Or write to: Theatre Express, PO Box 94 Chipping Norton D.O. OX7 3YL E-mail: perform@theatre-express.com

THEATRE EXPRESS: THE . HOICE FOR PERFORMING ART S IN SW INDON

t has been the season of family films on the telly and trips to I the pantomime. Have you seen Snow White at the Wyvern?

In Disney's version she sings, "Wishing will make it so."

If only!

There has been a lot of wishing lately. Merry Christmas. Happy New Year. Even Happy Millennium, whatever that means.

I could wish for many things, for me and for you. For good health, a happy family, a secure job. For a world where there is justice, peace, Somewhere back in all that hype and proper care for the environabout a new millennium was a ment.

But, sadly, wishing will not make birthday. Somewhere in the party it so. Tonight the balloons and we were celebrating what hapfireworks. Tomorrow the hango- pened two thousand years ago.

Somewhere in that story was a ver and the washing up.

Wishing only has results when man who met people in all their it is followed by working to make failure but all their possibility as it so. It needs me, it needs you and well, someone who took people me, to find ways to actually make seriously, especially those who had got left out and left behind, and it happen.

But even then it does not always who started to turn wishes into work out. So what do I do with my reality.

The question for a new millenfailure? How do I rebuild my relationships? How do I become part nium is whether mankind belongs of the bigger picture, find a larger to the world of Snow White, or to a source of vision and the courage to future where, with Him, all kinds of things could really be possible. go for it?

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Setting the scene for the next 30 years A conference of business people, community group representatives, environmentalists and councillors at the De Vere Hotel on 6 December launched a public debate on what kind of town Swindon should become over the next three decades.

The development of a new vision comes 30 years after a plan which led to the growth of west and north Swindon. A councillor working party has the task of consulting people over the next 18 months before producing a document which guides future policy making.

A feature of the plan will be the development of a Bath University campus in Swindon town centre and at Oakfield School. A keynote speech by vice chancellor Professor David VandeLinde committed the university to long term growth which will have a major impact on the economic, social and cultural aspects of the town. In practical terms, it is hoped that there will be a joint use public/university library with state of the art IT facilities and a large conference and concert hall.

Professor VandeLinde spoke of the challenges presented by rapid technological change and the need to provide students with skills that can be transferred to a variety of working environments. He also said people will need to continuously update their knowledge. He said the university would be educating Swindon's future business and community leaders and would be a force for enterprise and equal opportunity.

A second address by Swindon North MP Michael Wills referred to Swindon's prosperitybeing built on past achievements and decisions which foresaw major change during the twentieth century. He said the pace of change is increasing, with older businesses being threatened by the development of

the Internet and the new opportunities being created by entrepreneurs. "Swindon should see itself in competition with cities across the globe, not just in the UK. The key in Swindon is a good, willing, motivated workforce."

Workshop discussions considered the problems of the continued physical growth of the town and the pressure on facilities and the road system. The needs of

disaffected youth and people who are being left behind by the rush into the hi-tech future were also issues to be considered.

Concern was expressed that nobody would take notice of the consultation process, but council leader Sue Bates said the 30 year working party would be looking at ways of involving interest groups across the town, and also people who are not involved in

Council leader Sue Bates with Professor David VandeLinde, vice chancellor of Bath University

organisations.

Swindon is the richest A report in December revealed that Swindon is the most prosperous town outside London.

Measuring Gross Domestic Product - the goods and services produced in the area divided by its population -'Sharing the Nation's Prosperity' puts Swindon's GDP at £153 per person, compared to Milton Keynes at £138.

However a council report reveal there are pockets of poverty and disadvantage, with nearly 14 per cent of Swindon's 180,000 population dependent on income support.

AV AM Ma9 at^'^

Published by West Swindon Publications

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: li nkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle General enquiries: Tel: (01793) 872282 Advertising: Jenni Fowler Tel: (01793) 872531 Advertising deadline: 10th of the month Editorial: General Tel: (01793) 872282 North Swindon Tanya Parkinson Tel: (01793) 705105

Copy date for February edition' 14 Janaury

Published: 29 January Copy for March: 11 February The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in No rt h Swindon commenced in Janua ry 1994."

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

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3

4

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

Ringing in the new century The team who rang the bells at St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park, front from left: David Miles, Samantha Clark, Diana Williams, Sarah Franklin, Rosemary Ogle, John Wiltshire, Mark Reeder, David Franklin

US retail giant Wal-Mart buys north district centre The buyer of one of Swindon's largest commercial developments is to be Asda UK, now part of the giant US retailer Wal-Mart.

The site to the north of Haydon End Lane and west of Lady Lane, is huge, covering 36 acres. At 340,000 square feet, it is as big as the Greenbridge retail park and half the size of the West Swindon Centre, where Asda is already established. The scale of the development will fit neatly into the WalMart model in the United States of operating from very large retail parks to dominate market share.

December 1998 showed that no leisure facilities such as a cinema or a sports complex are proposed for the district centre, except a library and a youth centre.

The northern secondary school to be sited in the north west corner of the Haydon III development, to be built some time in the next ten years, could incorporate a recreation and sports centre.

A requirement upon the district

However a spokesperson at Asda headquarters in Leeds categorically dismissed the purchase of the site as pure speculation, saying that they had no expansion plans for the Swindon area.

Although many new jobs will be created at the district centre, which will serve both the 10,000 home northern development and also attract the population within a 30 mile radius, there are concerns about the lack of leisure, cultural or sports facilities planned for North Swindon.

A public exhibition of the plans for the Haydon III development in

centre developers will be to holda public exhibition of proposals and residents will have the chance to comment on the range of retail outlets and facilities to be included.

When this takes place is uncertain. Planning permission for the 6,000 home Haydon III area has still to be given. The development partners, which now includes WalMart, have to enter into a legal agreement with S windon Council to provide a range of facilities. This has to be force before a start can be made on the northern orbital road which must be completed before there are any house occupations.

Pensioners protest at passes cutback Swindon Council has decided to scrap the tokens scheme which entitles each pensioner to £45 annual free travel on bus, rail and taxis.

The Environmental Services of policy was limited before they committee agreed on 15 December made the decision. The level of that it had to reduce its budget consultation was poor."

Age Concern Swindon director overspend on free travel by making pensioners pay for half of each Jo Osorio, commented, 'clarificatrip. The committee will not be tion is still needed for those who charging pensioners £5 for the an- can use both community transport nual bus pass when the new ar- and public transport, but Age Concern believes that there should be rangements are implemented.

Les Morris from Westlea said he a decent retirement pension so that was not impressed by the council's concessions would not be needed actions. "Publicity for this change because they are divisive."

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Swindon Borough Council's social services department will start a campaign in February to attract more people to provide foster homes for children and young people aged 0 to 18 years old.

Anyone can apply to foster, though those with certain criminal records cannot be considered. People do not have to be married, working, wealthy, home owning or belong to any particular religion or race.

Children need foster care for a number of reasons: family crisis, relationship difficulties between child and parents, abuse.

Fostering can be short term placements for a few weeks or months, long term care for several months or years, or respite care for a few days in a month. There are also specialist schemes for children with disabilities and placements for children who have more challenging behaviour.

Foster carers receive initial training before being approved and ongoing training whilst fostering. There is also support from family placement workers, social workers and other foster carers.

For information about fostering, call the Social Services Family Placement Team on 465700.

5

WESTLEA

Train pulls in at pre-school Children from Westlea pre-school have all become little engine drivers after a large wooden green and black model was donated to the group by the GWR museum after it closed in November.

Pre-school supervisor Caroline Rayner said "the children think the engine is wonderful, they haven't stopped playing with it since it arrived. It's also a great opportunity for them to learn about Swindon's heritage."

The pre-school is open daily for children aged 3 years and upwards.

For more information contact Isobel Hornbuckle on 875733.

All aboard at Westlea pre-school

Youngsters help Blue Peter Seven year old Jessie Howard responded to a call from BBC TVs Blue Peter programme to organise a bring and buy sale in December.

With the help of friend Emma Parker and children from year I and 2, she raised £59.21 in aid of Bliss baby care towards the half a million pound target.

The Blue Peter presenters said they want children to raise money and I asked my teacher Mrs Adams," said Jessie. "We had so many toys given to us that we can organise another sale to raise more money."

Photo right, Jessie, left, with sister El len and Emma Parker

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`Completion near for trans-Atlantic boat Norman Butler from Westlea and team mate Chris Higgins from Gloucester have already spent over 200 hours building a boat in which they intend to row over 3,000 miles in October 2001.

Norman and Chris are planning The boat is due to be completed to take part in the Ward Evans in March. It will be blessed in Atlantic Rowing Race which will Gloucester Cathedral before being involve 50 teams who have built launched in April. The rowers are their craft from standard issue kits. planning several trips to test it out.

Although still twenty months Norman and Chris are organisaway, Norman and Chris are train- ing many fundraising events in ing five nights a week. aid of the NSPCC and are looking "This is the ultimate challenge, for business supporters and indi-

we are getting quite excited now, but can't get carried away because there is still a lot of building to do, and a large amount of money to be raised," said Norman.

vidual sponsors. Once costs have been covered, they will donate all money raised to the charity. If anyone would like to help, contact Norman on 882197.

Norman, middle right, and Chris, middle left, With Kieth Ryan of Copy Colour at the Orbit Centre and John Rawlinson, manager of Sainsburys Stratton

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6

TOOTHILL

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Graffiti vandals in court Two juveniles accused of an estimated £2,000 worth of damage at Toothill Village Centre in July 1999 are due in court on 21 January. village centre is in a bad state and we need residents They were witnessed in the early hours by resito report this kind of crime. Please call the police on dents who called the police to arrest the under 17 year olds who cannot be named. They pleaded not 528111 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

• PC Connor wants information on the vandal who guilty in an earlier court appearance.

Local area officer PC Phil Connor has said one of is tagging walls and lamposts with the word 'lemon' or 'demon.' Call him on 528111. his aims is to reduce graffiti vandalism. "Toothill

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New name for a new century The Oliver Tomkins pre-school off Beaumaris Road, Toothill has changed its name to Kiln Park preschool and is fighting back against the vandals who continue to attack their building.

Located on the edge of Kiln Park, owns its own building. It opened over the damage. We do everywhich is named after the Roman twelve years ago and caters for thing we can to prevent it interfering with thechildren'sneeds. They pottery kilns there, the pre-school about 40 children.

Since the summer vandals have are very happy inside, but we is the only one in the area which graffiti sprayed the walls on sev- would appeal to the people who eral occasions. Supervisor Angie are spraying the outside to leave Johns said it was disheartening that us alone." .A LPG & Natural She also asked anybody passing vandals are targetting them. "Staff, Gas Services PARE • Boilers parents and an 86 year old grand- by or overlooking the pre-school mother have all turnedouttopaint to report any suspicious activity.

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Toothill School not threatened Recent media reports suggesting Toothill Primary School could close because of falling pupil numbers and surplus places has caused alarm bells to ring for some parents.

Government guidelines call for action where schools have over 24 per cent of places unfilled. Toothill, with just over 220 pupils, is above the threshold. However councilfor Chris Eley, who is vice-chair of Swindon Education committee and a governor at the school, insists there is no threat of closure.

"The committee gets an annual report identifying surplus places," he said. "We work with schools to resolve the issues of accommodation. One of the long-term aims at Toothill could be removal the mobile units. In the meantime there is a very strong commitment to the school."

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

7

Making friends across the continent Children at Brook Field School are making friends in Europe using With funding from the European have met and children involved Comenius programme, links have have exchanged scrapbooks about been made with primary schools their schools, project work and in Denmark and Finland. photographs.

Headteacher Roger Nicholas So far headteachers and information technology coordinators said the slogan of the project is

Musical to helD the oppr essed Shaw based composer Margaret Carpenter has written another work which she hopes will raise money for people to escape persecution.

Margaret was pictured on the crisis," said Margaret. "Asa ChrisSeptember 1999 Link front page tian the Bible exhalts us to help with children from Brook Field others. I hope my music will be school who sang on a recording of able to help people escape perseher CD Giant Slayer, a musical for cution, like they did thousands of schools about the Biblical story of years ago."

Her son Adam wrote the music David and Goliath.

The new work is also based on and daughter Amy designed the the Bible, inspired by Exodus, cover of the musical score. The when Moses led his people out of finishing touches to the CD will be slavery in Egypt. Proceeds will be made in early January and it goes donated to the Exobus project, a on sale in early Spring.

Margaret is planning to launch charity which helps Jews emigrate the work with a performance of to Israel from Russia.

"As the economy gets worse in song, dance and drama to coincide Russia there is again increased per- with the move of the Christian secution of Jews, who have always Outreach Centre to new premises been the scapegoats in times of in the town centre.

the Internet and also good old fashioned pencil and paper. 'foreigners are just friends you do exchange e mails and hope to share not know yet. "This is a really a website later in the year." exciting project which brings chilThe school is on the Internet @ dren closer. We have started to www.Brookfield.Swindon.sch.uk Brook Field School information technology coordinator Dale Burr with his year4 class holding up self portraits sent by children at the Danish link schools.

Rear from left, Airi Kishi, Paul Halliday, Emily Crowhurst, Charlotte Kilcar, Rachael Green, James Hughes, F'nmm Wiltshire, Matthew Machin. Front, Carly Tremblin and Daniel Nield

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Pre-school opens in a new home Sparklers pre-school playgroup has moved to the dedicated under fives room at Peatmoor Community School.

The group first opened in the temporary community centre on Sparcells Drive about 11 years ago. With permanent facilities on offer in the school, supervisor Lynn McMahon said the children at Sparklers would benefit greatly. This is an exciting opportunity for our children to receive pre-school education in a school based enviroment."

If you are interested in sending your child to a warm and stimulating friendly pre-school playgroup, contact Sam McGill on 877189.

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NORTH SWINDON (including Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake, Taw Hill)

WWII bomb fear for North development

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Busy Book-Keep 1

With building work about to start on the next stage of the housing development in North Swindon, worries have been expressed about a possible unexploded bomb near Lady Lane.

Alan Thipthorpe, from Toothill, contacted The Link, to give details of the raid by German bombers one night in 1942. He worked at the Garrards aircraft factory off Lady Lane making fuselages for Stirling bombers. A Redrow Homes development is located on the site now.

He recollects that four bombs were dropped over the factory and clearly remembers three explosions nearby. He has always been convinced that the fourth lies unexploded and undiscovered.

"We used to make about 8 aircraft per week. I worked nights and we always knew if there might be a raid because a light on the Alan Thipthorpe holding up a picture of a Stirling being prepared for a raid

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roof went red if enemy aircraft were within a 50 mile radius.

"I was one of the last to leave the factory floor to go to the shelter.

There were three rapid explosions nearby, but I'm sure four were discharged. I came down from the London area, where bombs were a common occurrence. But because you only heard the odd one in Swindon I took more notice and listened out for them.

"I always wondered if one landed in the Haydon brook and has never been discovered."

If Alan's story has jogged your memory, or if you remember your parents talking about bomb raids targeting the factory, The Link would be interested in hearing from you.

Otherwise building contractors may well dig up more than they bargained for.

The cut off community of Taw Hill should have a meeting hall by Easter time when the temporary a building which served Abbey Meads is resited by developers.

The next meeting for residents takes place on Friday 28 January, 7.30pm at Sparcells social hall to discuss the setting up of a commu- A legal clinic has been set up at Abbey Meads Medical Practice nity association and ideas for ac- offering people free initial advice about a range of legal matters. tivities and events to be organised The sessions, which are open to tion with the surgery, said, "we in the area. all, are especially relevant to peo- have a number of other successful For more information, call Derek ple who may be unsure whether advice centres in the area. They are Hughes at Swindon Community they need to consult a solicitor or informal sessions and are always Services on 722427. not. They can cover a range of is- attended by qualified solicitors."

The sessions are run on altersues such as personal injury, matrimonial matters or debt. nate Thursdays from 9am tol2pm Robert Millbourn, from Bower at Abbey Meads Medical Practice. & Bailey, the company which has For more information call Bower launched the initiative in conjunc- and Bailey on 610466.

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Planners have approved a revised application for more than 350 homes on land to the north east of Abbey Meads.

The developers have withdrawn Despite objections from local residents and environmental a plan to build a pub orhotel on the groups, planning permission has site. However it is believed that been approved for a large devel- planners hope a new proposal for opment by Alfred McAlpine a leisure outlet might come forHomes. The 25 acre site will com- ward. prise of two, three and four bedroomed dwellings, including More road works social and affordable housing Car drivers have been held up for units. the third time in 18 months by Access to the housing will be three way traffic signals at the from Cricklade Road and the new Elstree Way junction, which joins residents will have to use footpaths Westfield Way and Lady Lane. or cycleways to the reach Abbey A Swindon Council spokesperMeads village centre. son stated that it was not always Martin Trewella, Senior Planner possible for builders to complete at Swindon Council, commented, road works at the same time. that the revised plans are much i mproved. No houses will be built Blot on the landscape below the power lines and safe- Litter and weeds are causing anguards will be made to protect noyance to many homeowners on important trees, hedgerows and a the northern development. pond. Approval is also subject to If you know of areas not being legal input and financial consid- maintained, call Martin Buckland erations from the developers with at Swindon Council on 464574 and regard to footpaths, play areas and he will notify the relevant contracother facilities." tor to resolve the problem.

HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

9

Final dome tapestry completed

Fun in giving

Greenmeadow artist Susan Carr has now completed her work with local schools to design and make three themed tapestries, which will form part of the largest tapestry in the world to be displayed in the Millennium Dome.

Youngsters at Haydon Wick School played their part in helping some of Europe's forgotten children smile on Christmas Day. Pupils at the school took the annual appeal by Children In Distress to their hearts by collecting 165 boxes filled with small toys, hats and gloves, sweets and stationery. Funding for the boxes came from a collection after the school's annual pre-Christmas production.

The organisation undertakes lifesaving work in war-torn areas of Eastern Europe and at Christmas it delivers wrapped shoeboxes to the most desperate children.

The youngsters enjoyed getting involved. Rachel Webb, 10, said, "we get lots of presents to open and these children get nothing, I thought it was really important we helped them have some fun."

Alex Jones, 6, added "it was good, all my friends did it too. I put a pencil, a small book, sweets and a little bear in my box."

Children In Distress aimed to have sent over 125,000 boxes by the end of Christmas 1999.

Shoebox collectors. Rear from left Shaun Smith, Georgina Louca, Billy Keneally, Daniel Lock, Courtney Bell, Chris Robins. Middle: James Head, Sasha Foxworthy. Front: Daniel White, James Wakefield, Rachel Swindle

Rebecca Paper, Haydon Wick parish council chairman Richard Hailstone, Kimberley Curtis. Middle: David Douglas, Alana McKee, Rebecca Paper.

Front: Ben Reynolds, Hailey Pererra, Dean Bassett, Sam Hem pill The Link has pictured Susan and pupils at Haydon Wick and Haydonleigh schools with their art work. The last, on a transport theme, by Greenmeadow School children was completed in early December using silk painting, sewing and knitting.

Susan, who has been sponsored

by Haydon Wick parish council, chose a selection of designs submitted by the children to incorpo-

rate into the work.

Headteacher Diane Pritchard, said that pupils had worked with Susan for several sessions. Some were so keen they even came back during their lunchtime. They are all very proud of their achievements."

An Internet site is to be created to enable each school to find out which dates their tapestry will be on display in the Dome.

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Aboriginal art displayed at Tregoze Youngsters at Tregoze School in Grange Park spent an art day in early December creating large 3D millennium bugs to decorate the computer suite.

Children in Karen Winterburn's mache and clay, decorated with fun to do."

Karen was able to show off class also experimented with Aus- lizards, crocodiles and abstract Tregoze to children in Australia tralian aboriginal artforms after designs.

Ryan Collett said he found it on the Internet at The Link web site her teacher exchange in early November when she visited primary quite difficult to do at first. "We www.swindonlink.com Karen said that having Tregoze schools in New South Wales. Dur- used dots and dashes like the picing her stay she spent a day work- tures we saw in a book. I liked the on the Internet enhanced her visit.

"It was really fantastic to be able to ing with aboriginal artists at a designs I made."

Hannah Clemo said, "I made a see photos of my class from the school workshop.

The Tregoze children designed 'coolamon' which is a bowl for other side of the world. It showed and decorated a large banner de- carrying food and water. It was how new technology can be used picting the ancient story of very colourful with lots of spirals to improve children's knowledge 'Kalpartu, the dreamtime snake' and zigzag patterns. It was a lot of and understanding." and each pupil also made a bowl, Tregoze children showing off their artwork. This picture appeared at a boomerang or a tool from papier zozuw.szttindonlink.com before Christmas before the long summer holidays started irr Australia

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Two women take top positions in Hindu Samaj Twenty-five years after its formation, Swindon's Hindu community or Samaj has elected women to the highest positions of its executive committee.

The new President, Sushma ebrations at Divali and Navaratri culture and the Samaj brings peoPatel, lives in Old Town and has and an annual variety show which pie together," said Sushma. "We run the Freshbrook pharmacy for involves over 100 performers. A are an imporant link between East 12 years, and Meena Ladwa, who Millennium Festival grant of £3,600 and West for the majority of our lives in Freshbrook, has been has been received to ensure this children who were born in Britain.

"The grant will help us celebrate year's show on 22 January is the elected as one of the secretaries. multi-cultural understanding in biggest and best yet.

Originally formed as a support The Samaj also coordinates Fri- Swindon." group for the growing number of The Samaj also raises money for Asian people coming to Swindon day evening mother tongue lanafter expulsion from Uganda in guage classes attended by sixty local causes such as PMH special the early 1970s, the Samaj is now a children and run by volunteer baby care, the Prospect Hospice focus for cultural and religious ac- teachers, helped by ex-pupils who and Motor Neurone Disease. In tivities for the 450 Hindu people in have taken GCSE at local schools. November £900 was raised for cy"The family is the basis of our clone disaster relief in India. the town.

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LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER

Hopes for the future At the beginning of a new year and a new millennium we naturally think about our hopes for the future, writes Julia Drown, MP for South Swindon.

We all want change for the better to happen quickly - particularly when it comes to public services and important issues such as health, housing and crime. But, lasting and effective change requires solid foundations.

It is just as frustrating for politicians as it is for the general public that the positive impact of many new policies is not felt for months or sometimes even years. But that does not mean that the policies and goals are wrong.

Nationally, I am looking forward to more improvements in education and health over the coming years. The Labour Government has put significant extra investment into these key public services and has set challenging targets, such as literacy standards and truancy rates in education, and waiting times and cancer treatment in health. We want to build public services that we are all proud of and having targets means we can be judged by our actions.

I am also hopeful that we will see crime rates come down as a result of national initiatives and the work of local partnerships that are being established to tackle crime at a local level. 1999 saw the beginning of the largest investment ever in a programme to reduce crime and rebuild our communities, including the £250 million Crime Reduction Programme, the £50 million Burglary Reduction Initiative and the pledge of an extra £1.24 billion for the police service over the next three years. In the coming months, we will start to

Neighbourhood security The Freshbrook Neighbourhood Safety Teams - NeST - one of four pilot schemes in Swindon is meeting in late January to discuss issues raised by residents, councillors and police.

If you want your concerns raised about crime, vandalism, burglary, graffiti, and environmental problems like broken street lights and litter, contact local councillors Chris Eley on 616361 or Judith Peppitt on 887613, or Swindon Council's Crime & Disorder coordinator Miriam Minty on 466510.

see the positive impact of these extra resources and initiatives.

I share everyone's desire to see improved public transport and a more healthy and sustainable environment. A Transport Bill in 2000 will help deliver this and we will also see new measures to improve access to open countryside and to protect our wildlife.

It is important to remember the needs and ambitions of the world's poorer countries. As I write the Chancellor Gordon Brown has announced the wonderful news that Britain is prepared to write off all debts owed by the world's poorest countries. It is hoped that as many as 26 countries will benefit from this decision by the end of 2000. This would not have happened without the sustained pressure of thousands of people across the country, including many from Swindon. I have been proud to represent their views in Parliament by leading calls for debt elimination for the new millennium.

I, like Jubilee 2000, am delighted has shown it is at the vanguard in efforts to find meaningful ways to tackle poverty and deprivation in the world's poorest countries.

In Swindon we can look forward to the completion of our brand new hospital. This will make available the most up-to-date medical facilities and more space to provide services to the people of Swindon and the surrounding area.

We can also look forward to more NHS dentists, a National Collections Centre for Museums at Wroughton, a vibrant local economy and high employment.

This, together with all our other strengths, we hope will bring us City Status for the 21st Century.

And finally, I hope to see more involvement in the political process. It is disturbing how many people feel alienated from and apathetic towards politics. I hope the 21st century will see more people than ever before engaging in politics - locally, nationally, and internationally to play their part in improving our world.

I would like to wish everyone a happy and successful year and cen-

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13

James Butcher Housing Association

AT YOUR LIBRARY

14

The Crime of Being German ISBN 1 85776 204 5

at £ 12.95 is now available from The Victoria Bookshop Wood Street Old Town, Swindon All author's profits will benefit displaced persons

John Gibson, AICB

Qualified Book-keeper • Regular book-keeping • VAT returns • PAYE & payroll

Swindon Libraries. What's in them for you?

So what are you new year resolutions for 2000? asks librarian Joanne Richardson Is it to lose weight, start a hobby, lea rn to drive, get a qualification, smarten up the garden, redecorate the house, learn a language, train the dog to stop chewing the furniture? Then join the library, By doing only that, you can make all the other things possible. I bet you never thought achieving new year resolutions could be that easy?

That is not to say that we are miracle workers. We cannot make you thin, or weed your garden or even train the dog. But we can certainly find you a book that can help.

So down to the nitty gritty. To join, go along to your local library with some official proof of your name and address, complete a simple application card and we will do the rest. Within minutes you will be the proud owner of a rather cheesy, discreet looking plastic library card. But do not be fooled, it

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may not be as glossy as a bank card, but it will provide you with access to any book you want. It is true if we do not have • ' the book you want in one of our libraries, for a small fee we can obtain it from another authority for you. So now there is nothing to stop you realising those resolutions.

Also as well as materials for hobbies and study, your library has fiction books galore, whether your taste is death and detection, or romance and desire, we've got it all.

Every week we are sent the top ten best sellers in fiction and non-fiction.

And even if you don't like reading, join the library. Come along and try out our selection of videos, talking books and music CDs. We also have a new collection of books especially for those who are just beginning to read, young or old. And our staff are always happy to help.

If you are unable to get to a library, Swindon Council operates two mobile libraries and a housebound library service.

For information about the location and opening times of your local branch contact 465555.

Sharing words in Winter Reading and writing are solitary activi ti es that go hand in hand, but here is a chance for writers to liven up dark, gloomy winter months by connecting with others at a creative writing weekend from 11 February evening un ti l Sunday 13 February afternoon at Lower Shaw Farm on Old Shaw Road. Run by Nell Leyshon and Matt Holland, the nonresidential cost is £35 which includes meals. To book, call 771080.

Women's words The Swindon branch of the Worker's Education Assocation is running an eight week creative writing course at the Swindon Foyer, Bath Road, Swindon. It starts on Saturday 15 January and thereafter on Tuesdays, 7.30pm from 18 January.

If you have never written, have work in progress, or have finished but do not know which way to turn, call 01225 719046 to book a place.

Write a 21st Century poem There is still time to enter the Ligden Poetry Society millennium competition for prizes of £75, £50 and £25.

Poems of not more than 40 lines should be typed on A4 and submitted by 29 February to The Editor, Pulsar Poetry Magazine, 34 Lineacre, Grange Park, Swindon, SN5 6DA. Entry fee cheques/postal orders of £2 for the first poem and 50p for subsequent entries should be made payable to 'Ligden Poetry Society.'

For a full set of rules and conditions, call David Pike on 875941.

Perfect book-keeping numbers

PRIMARY CLASSES:

Having left school with very little in the way of qualifications, John Gibson, 36, from Lineacre Close, Grange Park, was somewhat nervous about his exams to qualify as a book-keeper.

YOUTH THEATRE: Become

However he was stunned when he received the results giving him an A grade pass. Shortly afterward he was contacted by the Institute Of Certified Book-keepers, to be informed that he had scored a perfect 100% - only the third candi-

Children find c classes fun and highly motivating and parents everywhere are delighted with the results involvedin our stimulating Theatre Arts programme for 12 - 17 year olds H

^^aIcn, t'rincipal, elen O'Grad y n rams

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date to have ever achieved this

mark.

"I was so excited I had to tel l someone, soIrangmymum!"John said. "Having never been that successful with exams I was very ap- 100% pass mark is outstanding."

As well as the ntrmal certificate, prehensive, but having scored good grades in the course work I John will be going to London to was hoping to pass. This left me receive a special award.

Now that he has qualified, John speechless!"

Gary Carter, the Chief Execu- has started applying his talents to. tive of the ICB, said, "the exam is local companies and individuals taken by hundreds of people, both who need a book-keeper. He can nationally and interna tionally,and be contacted on 873202 or email: while some do very well, John's johngibson@post.com

The Link Magazine • January 2000

15

HEADSTARTS First birthday for Little Scholars Staff and children at Abbey Meads pre-school are celebrating its first year.

Having first opened at the temporary community centre on Elstree Way, the group now called Little Scholars transferred to Abbey Meads community primary school in September.

Although the staff got used to carting everything around in boxes and setting up and clearing away at each session in the temporary building, they have really enjoyed working in a dedicated pre-school environment.

Supervisor Anita Williams said, Little Scholars staff, rear, Catherine "it is heaven to be somewhere per- Whitfield, Lyn Phillips and Anita manent. We are building up a good Williams relationship with the school to enable an easy transition from prePre-pre-school school to reception class."

The transition from being at The new venue is registered for home with mum to starting at pre22 children and currently runs five school can be traumatic for young morning sessions. Two afternoon children and a new pre-nursery sessions are starting in January. group has been set up in Abbey Pauline Webster, who runs the Meads to help the adjustment. pre-school said, "the children setLittle Mischiefs will hold its first tled in very quickly. We are really weekly session on Thursday 13 pleased and would like to thank January from 12.45pm to 2.15pm, headteacher Marilyn Brown who at Abbey Meads community has been exceptionally helpful." school.

To register your child call in or Maggie Fisher, who is running contact Pauline on 762016. the group, said, "we are aimed at 2 • The second Abbey Meads school to 3 year children and their paris now registering children. Turn ents and carers. Each week the session will include structured to page 16 for details. craft activities, singing and nursery rhyme games and stories."

The cost is £2.50 per session, payable every half term. For details, A drop-in group for toddlers and contact Maggie on 822185. their carers, formed at Abbey Meads community school in November, has proved so successful Playful creepy crawlies that it has had start a waiting list.

Called Caterpillars the group meets each Monday, 10am.

There is a craft time, music and stories for children, plus refreshment for all.

To find out more call Becky Bradley on 701449.

Toddler drop-in fills up

Musical toddlers branch out Musical Tots, a music and movement group for under 5s restarts on 6 and 7 January and is opening sessions in West Swindon.

It meets at Emmanuel Church in High Street, Haydon Wick and is starting up at Peatmoor School.

Each lesson lasts 45 minutes and caters for 15 children, with parents. The emphasis is on fun and informality with an educational element. Parent and child interaction is one of the key points to enjoyment of each session.

For details, call Alison Randell on 701104.

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James Waddicor from Peatmoor was a special guest at Moredon Nursery in December where he showed off a collection of spiders, frogs and cockroaches to the fascinated youngsters.

Lizzy Furness is pictured in her first week in the nursery being shown a Mexican red knee spider by James

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16

The Link Magazine • January 2000

Euro funding for schools and education projects to link up Da ry l Jones, European Officer at Swindon Borough Council writes

Drop-in sessions for new North school

A number of Swindon schools are already involved in EU funding programmes and during 2000 there will be more opportunities to seek funding to create links on educational projects which include:

pointed the headteacher for the

There are deadlines for these Projects should link schools from Study visits, school linking visits at least three countries in Europe programmes. Therefore, if you see Inter-cultural education an opportunity for your school, and Eastern Europe.

In-service training projects Linking with a partner school or contact me on 466414 and I can Language training projects college can enrich the teaching and assist you in applying for funds.

Joint educa ti onal projects for lan- learning experience right across the Let me know if you are interguage learning school curriculum. It provides in- ested to link with another school spiration and a source of material and/or apply for European fundfor project work, a real-life context ing to create a project.

Schools in Europe looking for for foreign language learning and Learn to play link partners can be found at: A limited number of places are skills development. www.partbase. eupro. se Daryl Jones, putting Swindon still available on a'Take10 for Play' www.wotw.org.uk into Europe course, starting on 13 January.

Designed for anyone working with school age children, particiFrench speakers gather pants will work towards gaining a If you are interested in France, its national qualification by covering language and way of life and you topics such as play and playwork, speak reasonably good French, health and safety, and planning why not join the Swindon Anglo and promoting play.

French Club which meets monthly The 10 week course will run on at Croft Sports Centre?

Thursdays, 7pm to 9.30pm at Plus Activities include quiz evenings, 1 youth centre, Euclid Street, Swinspeakers, dinners and an annual don.

Bas ti lle Day celebration.

For further details call Teresa For details call Grace Wilkins on Quinn on 466546.

706775.

Gaye Ching, 45, has been ap210 place Catherine Wayte School, which opens in September off Elstree Way, Abbey Meads.

She is rently heap Lawn Inf

Teacher exchanges/placements

School and

up her post Easter.

As Swin Council ed tion commit new admission policy requires school preferences to be stated by 18 February, parents are invited to meet Mrs Ching at two drop-in sessions at the Haydon Wick parish council offices, next to the Haydon Centre on: Wednesday 26 January, 1pm - 3pm Friday 28 January, 9am - 11pm.

Mrs Ching said, "although it is still being built, this is a chance for parents to meet me and discuss what kind of school Catherine Wayte will be. I look forward to meeting you."

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See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Bradon extension opened Professor Michael Barber, said to be the fourth most important person in education, opened a £1 million extension at Bradon Forest School on 2 December.

Speaking to an invited audience he outlined government education policy and set out developments for the future.

The extension includes a computer suite, science labs, library and music studios.

Professor Barber with Bradon headteacher Chris Montacute

Lottery win for school A grant of £105,000 over three years from the New Opportunities Fund will allow Hreod Parkway School to develop an Information and Communication Technology Centre.

Children attending Hreod will be able to use the facilities before school and for homestudy. The six partner primary schools involved in the successful bid will also have access to the facilities.

Headteacher Andrew Fleet said, this exciting project will significantly enhance learning and study opportunities."

Exchange builds friendships in Spain

The Link Magazine • January 2000

Young cooks prepare to compete Swindon's secondary school pupils are already planning their millennium menus for the Young Cook of the Year Award 2000.

Last year's champions Ridgeway School is expecting tough competition as they do battle to retain their title.

Ten schools took part in last year's competition that requires youngsters, from years 7-8 and 9-10 to design and create a suitable dish for serving as a main course item at midday. The dish must be healthy, flavoursome and nutritionally balanced, as well as making good use of commodities produced in Wiltshire.

Schools will be competing for a top prize of £400 in each age group to spend on catering equipment.

Michaela Hunt from sponsors NTL said, "the competition has now been running for four years and the judging gets tougher and tougher."

Good friends were made on completion of a two part exchange when Greendown School language students visited the Gabriel Mir6 School near Alicante, Spain in November. The Spanish students who visited Swindon in the Autumn were pictured in the November Link magazine.

Apart from spending time in school the group visited the Alhambra Palace in Granada, the tourist sites of Benidorm and were featured on Above: Michaela Hunt with Ridgelocal radio and television. way winners Daniel Whiting, left, The Greendown group, from left, head of languages Eileen Mochan, Kirsty Owen, Clare Humphrey, Gemma Matthews, Claire Vaughn-Williams, Kate Williams, Becky Grey, Amy Osorio, Priya Patel, Spanish teacher Ana Munoz.

Programme to boost reading and writing After school tuition to support children who have difficulties with reading and writing, using the Arrow system is available at the Peatmoor School.

The programme, which is used Call PeatmoorheadteacherTerri in over 600 schools in Britain and Peacock on 887473 for details on abroad, is based on pupils reading how to help your child improve age specific material into a tape their reading skills. recorder. Research has shown that Terri Peacock with Dr Colin Lane, by listening to their own voice, founder of the Arrow Trust there is a marked improvement in reading ability. Asa consequence, children's confidence is enhanced which further improves reading, as well as writing and spelling.

The programme runs in five week blocks. There is an initial assessment cost of £55 and the course costs £80. Arrow offers a money back guarantee if reading or spelling does not improve.

and Jonathan Whelan and Barbara Raynor of East brook organic farm

Private Tuition in all subjects & levels • Key Stages 1-4 • GCSE & A Level • Special Needs Call

Personal Tutorials New teachers 01672 539368 also wanted 01793 538730

17

windon College C

Live and Learn in YOUR Area Adult Courses for the New Year from Janua ry 2000 include: ^y N

• • •

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NO

• n • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • n

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Computing for Beginners Internet Workshops & Web Design Painting & Drawing, Potte & Ceramics Jewelle Making Antiques & Histo Flower Arranging, Garden Design Feng Shui, Interior Design & DIY Music Technology, Guitar, Singing Music & Movement with Mum or Dad Jazz, Tap, Ballroom & Latin Dance FlexiDance for Fitness & Relaxation Meditation, Relaxation, Shiatsu T'ai Chi & Yoga (Hatha & lyengar) Healing & Self Healing Reflexology & Aromatherapy Self Hypnosis, Past Life Regression, Dream Interpretation Creative Cookery Courses & Cake Decoration Hair & Make-up Creative Writing, Script Writing Business & Management Engineering Languages for Fun! Maths & English Psychology, Sociology, Counselling & N.L.P.

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Venue include: Greendown School, Haydon Wick Community Centre, Peatmoor Community Primary School, Haydonleigh School, Brookfield School, Westlea School, Oliver Tomkins School, Freshbrook School, Freshbrook Community Centre, Moredon Infants School.

To find out more about courses in YOUR area:

FREEPHONE 0800 731 2250 "To provide a comprehensive high quality education which is relevant and accessible to the communities which we serve"

The Link Maaazine • Januar y 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Euro success for Storysacks idea A big party is being planned for Westlea School parents who helped former headteacher Neil Griffiths to turn a simple idea to develop early language skills into a world leading educational innovation.

At the end of November Neil, with parent Judith Blake from Grange Park, presented Storysacks to an international panel of judges in Weimar, Germany. They were so impressed that they chose the project to win the Alcuin Award made by the European Parents Association.

Nominated by the Department for Education and Employment, it was the first time Britain had entered. There were four other finalists from Italy, Belgium, Norway and another British entry from a secondary school in Essex.

Now leading a project funded by the Basic Skills Agency, Neil travels the country promoting Storysacks. Each sack is based on a children's book and contains soft toys of the main characters, scenary, simple games and an audio tape. Volunteers in each Storysack centre hand make them to create a collection which can be borrowed by parents with young

19

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PETROL PRICES UP AGAIN! Neil Gr iffi ths aiu Judith Blake after receiving the Alcuin Award at the Weimar music school where renowned pianist Franz Lizt once taught

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Storysacks are also used in North America, Europe and Australia.

"It is wonderful to see such a simple concept transfer throughout the world," said Neil. "It is reward enough to see so many parents and children discover a love of books through the use of Storysacks, but to receive a prestigious award is icing on the cake."

He dedicated the success of Storysacks to parents who helped develop the first sacks at Westlea School. "We could not have achieved such recognition without the efforts of those busy mums who put in many voluntary hours to turn ideas into practical

Storysack items by knitting, sewing, drawing and planning."

Neil currently travels 65,000 a year and in the last two years nearly 30,000 people have attended Storysacks workshops.

For a free quote

The project office at Pinehurst School handles 3,000 telephone enquiries annually, some from overseas.

Basic Skills Agency patron Princess Anne promotes the idea with

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20

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

Award for sporting youngsters

We are looking for 30 children to try our award winning martial arts programme during January, at no charge

Swindon Hockey Club has received a major boost for the development of its junior section with a Millennium Festival Awards for All grant of ÂŁ1,950 via Sport England.

Junior Club Coordinator Rose- in improved results."

The junior section has expanded mary Law said, "this award has given our junior club a tremen- rapidly in the last year with nearly dous boost. The enthusiasm for 70 children aged 7 to 15 registered the game shown by our younger as members. There are five teams players has been recognised and which play at under 11 to under 16 we will now be in a position to age groups.

Thegranthasbeen awarded speoffer them quality kit and facilities. This year with more qualified cifically for coaching development, coaches, the standard of our train- the provision of first aid training ing has improved and the provi- and boxes, new playing equipment sion of a proper team strip has and new team shirts.

To join the club, contact Rosegiven the children an enhanced self-image. This has been reflected mary Law on 879254.

Receiving the Millennium cash, rear from left, club captain, David James, Rosemary Law, club coach Jan-Willem Holtrop. Middle, Mark Jennings, Rosie Timbrell, Michelle Myers, Kelly Hillier-Bowden. Front, Chris Holland, David Webster, Patrick Law, Flip Holtrop, Swindon Council sports development officer Nicky Green

That's right, join our school, get your uniform and pay nothing until February 200011 Brand new schools opening in your area at: Haydon Wick Community Centre Greendown School, West Swindon Stratton Community Centre Full time Blackbelt Academy in Old Town Swindon Starting Thursday 13th January 2000 Stratton Community Centre, Grange Drive To book your place at Stratton, Greendown or Haydon Wick call 01793 431977 To book your place at Old Town call 07000 216101 LEIGH CHILDS

Youth games for the Millennium Schools across Swindon will be receiving information in January on selection of teams to compete in the Millennium Youth Games.

Swindon Council will host competitions on 25 June in nine sports athletics, football, netball, hockey, basketball, swimming, tennis, tag rugby and golf for the Dorset & Wiltshire area, as part of a National Youth Games programme run by Sport England and BAA plc.

Youngsters aged 11 to 16 years will be taking part and there will be football and swimming for children with learning difficulties.

The winning teams in the older age groups will go on to the national grand final in Southampton to be held from 17 to 20 August.

Anyone interested in taking part, or who can volunteer their organising help, should contact Gladys Barr on 465632 Basketball......

The Sunny Delight 3 V 3 competition for teenagers takes place at the Haydon Centre on Saturday 12 February 2000.

All secondary schools are being encouraged to enter teams and will have received entry forms. They are also available through the Sunny Delight hotline on 0114 243 4379.

The age groups are U14 boys, U14 girls, U16 boys and U16 girls.

This competition is part of a national competition with the semi finals in Cardiff and the finals in Sheffield later in the year.

Wheelchair basketball roadshow

Excellence

07000 216101

Swindon Borough Council is trying to get wheelchair basketball established in the town again and is looking for both disabled and ablebodied people to play.

The Haydon Centre hosts a roadshow on Saturday 26 February from 1.30 to 5pm. Anyone interested in playing, or able to help in getting the project off the ground, or any group who would like to receive information on the event, should contact Gladys Barr on 465632.

21

F!

IF t

have buyers anxious to purchase 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes in West Swindon, Abbey Meads, Haydon Wick and Woodhall Park.

Please telephone Robert or Philip to arrange an immediate free and no obligation valuation

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

Only a few days to go for the panto, oh yes there is .....

Although Snow White is Jacinta's first pantomime, she feels an old hand. "It really is exciting because every night is a different performance in contrast to Neighbours which follows a fairly standard pattern. I've discovered that

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. this season's pantomime at the Wyvern Theatre is well into its run. but there is still time to buy a ticket before it closes on 15 January.

And TV soap star Jacinta Stapleton, from Neighbours, is now an experienced player in the this uniquely British comedy theatre.

Except she is no longer with Neighbours. She left the show at the end of November to get ready for her panto debut in Swindon.

Although we will not see how Jacinta's alter ego Amy is written out of the show until later this year. and she is bound to secrecy, she said it will be in typical Amy style. risky and a bit devious.

"It was time to move on after two

absolutely anything can happen, and with this cast it does.

"The spontaneity is fantastic and the Swindon audience are a great encouragement. I would say if

you've been already, come again.

It will be a different show."

To book a ticket for Snow White, call the Wyvern Theatre box office on 524481.

and half years in Neighbours." said

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Percussionist to pass on secrets organised by local teachers Paul Ashman and Steve Jobbins.

Steve has toured with Take That.

Vet Wet Wet and recorded and toured last year with Nik Kershaw.

He is best known for his funk and groove styles. but gets to grips with

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Drumming students have a treat in store when top percussionist Steve Washington holds a clinic at Greendown School on Sunday 6 Februa ry

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Jacinta. "From Swindon I'll be going to Los Angeles for a few months and hopefully get a film test. Then I will spend the summer travelling around Europe. It will be my first break in over four years. " My plan is to spend next Christmas in Australia, the first time in three years."

currently teaches percussion at Paul McCartney's school of contemporary music in Liverpool and also at his own studio in No rt h Wales.

The cost of the Greendown workshop is £10 in advance, from Paul Ashman on 702948.

Doors open at 1.30pm. The workshop sta rt s at 2pm.

To find out more about learning the drums with Ashman Jobbins Percussion Teaching Services, call

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22

^^^ iARly^,y ^' UTilitUI'e

i Porcelain • Silver Clocks & watches Kitchenalia Collectables Victoria Centre 138 - 139 Victoria Road

Old Town, Swindon (1 min. walk from Prospect Place car nark)

Festival of Literature books top speakers Plans are well underway for one of the annual highlights in the town's cultural calendar: the seventh and longest yet, Swindon Festival of Literature, 1 to 13 May. Festival Director Matt Holland It sta rt s in Lawn Woods at dawn Patten, world crop circles expert on May Day and during the subse- Lucy Pringle, Times columnist and says, "We hope that bigger will quent 12 days includes a wide English churches expert Simon also mean better in 2000! We are range of literary talks, pe rf orm- Jenkins, writer and television re- certainly delighted that the name ances, discussions and readings viewerTony Parson and seductive of the festival is now known far and wide and that leading authors are at a rt s venues, libraries, schools, storyteller Cat Weatherhill. ready to appear here. We are pubs, parks and even woodlands especially pleased to be offering a in and around Swindon. wide range of events in a variety of Authors already booked to apvenues to cater for all tastes. It is pear include leading novelist Fay ve ry exciting."

Weldon, BBC television news corThe programme will be availrespondent Kate Adie, right, popuable in March. For further details lar poets Wendy Cope and Brian or to receive the mailing list, call 01793 771080.

Photos wanted

THE RIDGEWAY SCHOOL Inverary Road, Wroughton Swindon SN4 9DJ

A range of accommodation for private hire at competitive prices Available for conferences, meetings, wedding recep ti ons, dances/discos, private parties, jumble sales, small clubs etc Whatever your needs and for details of prices and availability, please contact: The Lettings Manager

Tel: 01793 812824 Fax: 01793 815065

The festival will include the everpopular dawn chorus and litera ry frolics at 5.33am on May Day morning; writing workshops and a short story competition; a day devoted entirely to children's authors and activities; the third Clive Brain Memorial Lecture; and of course, the now nationally famous Poetry Slam.

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Swindon Council Visual Arts is organising a millennium year photography exhibition at the Wyvern Theatre between 14 February and 13 March.

The theme for all Visual Arts exhibitions during the year is time and the title of this event is Nature.

Photographers are invited to submit four images which explore the relationship between artistic expression and nature, capturing a moment in time.

For details of the exhibition, call Celia Yeoman on 466517. The closing date is 21 January.

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We welcome enquiries in writing to the practice manager, or ring for an appointment to register your pet.

23

GARDENERS LINI< Gipsy Lane, Swindon Tel: (01793) 616288 Fax: (01793) 542235

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* Panels and trellis, closeboard, picket, post & rail, chainlink, security etc. * Patios, decking, water features, turfing ` y B rd planting

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Why not come along and check out our quality products? Our customers tell us that we give the best value for money in the area.

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Trade enquiries welcome

Tel: 523262 Winter Warmth with Ron's

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5 metre draught excluder

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15 metre draught excluder

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Door brush draught excluder

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Letterbox draught excluder

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20 kg £3.40 Coal Coalite 20kg £6.35 Paraffin 4 litres Logs net Firewood

10kg £1.80 10kg £3.25 £2.39 £1.85 50p

Portable gas heater Chorch RI50 3 bar gas fire including bottle gas & regulator £65 Handy Gas same day delivery

Pets Corner 3kg peanuts

£2.95

20kg Gilpa Kenneil

3kg wild bird seed

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20kg 50/50 budgie seed £9.99

20kg Value mix 12.5kg Bakers

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20kg parakeet seed

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100 Munchy chews

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20kg mix canary seed

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Rabbit hutch

£35.00

20kg dry rabbit mix

£6.65 £7.85

Bird table

£15.00

20kg Supreme

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Swindon Wide

24 Until Saturday 15 January Pantomime Snow White and the

Graham McCallion

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Are you going to a winter wedding?

We give 7.5% discount on purchases over £50 and 10% discount on purchases over £100 ... to pay for your petrol

Perhaps you just need a hat to keep away the winter weather You need to visit

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Harvey Wine & Beer Making Centre 40 Fisherton Street, Salisbury

to see our exciting range of hats for sale or hire For a personal appointment, telephone (01793) 704005.

Tel: 01722 320480

Seven Dwarfs, starring Neighbours' Amy Greenwood. Wyvern, various pe rf ormance times. £13.

Panto booking line 0870 606 3572 Tuesday 4 January to Sunday 9 January Exhibition Full Steam Ahead, the i mpact of Victorian transport.

NMRC, Great Western Village.

Wed-Sun, llam-5pm Wednesday 5 January to Saturday 29 January Exhibition Self Portraits. A rt s Centre Friday 7 January Music An Evening of Acoustic Music with David Hughes and Andy Guttridge. A rt s Centre, 8pm. £7.50. Book on 873797 Saturday 8 January Training Lighting Design, led by Ruth Side ry of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Arts Centre, loam-4pm. £16 (over 16's only).

Saturday 15 January to Saturday 8 April Exhibition Images of England.

The Galle ry , NMRC, Great Western Village, open Wed-Sun, 11 am5pm. Information on 414700 Monday 17 January to Saturday 22 January Musical Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat. Wyvern, various times & prices, two shows each day except Monday Tuesday 18 January to Saturday 13 February Exhibition Holding Back the Waves, paintings from Swindon Artists Forum, Wyvern Friday 21 January Music Girl Talk, Barb Jungr, Claire Martin and Mari Wilson sing songs from 1940s. Arts Centre, 8pm. £11 Saturday 22 January Training Introduction to Garden Design, with award winning designer Liz Porteous. Arts Centre, 10am-4pm. £12

Barb Jungr, Claire Ma rtin and Mari Wilson at the A rts Centre on Friday 21 January

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New women's courses There are two new courses run by the WEA Swindon Women's branch starting in the New Year: Preparing for Paid Work An opportunity to gain new job seeking skills, including writing a cv and gaining interview skills.

Information session: Friday 28

Janua ry , loam - llam 10 weekly meetings from Friday 4 Februa ry , 10am - 12pm.

Confidence and Assertiveness Become more confident and say what you feel, honestly and clearly, without being disrespectful.

Information session: Wednesday

26 January, 10am - 11 am.

10 weekly meetings from Wednesday 2 February, 1 Oam-12pm.

Both courses, which are free, take place at the Health Hydro, Milton

Road and you can gain an Open College Network Credit. There is a registration fee of £1.

Afree creche is offered but places must be booked at least 10 working days before the course starts.

All showing at the Arts Centre, 7.45pm Wednesday 5 January The Spanish Prisoner (PG) Cambell Scott and Steve Martin star in this intricatley constructed thriller. Presented by SFS Tuesday 11 January The War Zone (18) Tim Roth's film about incest, is a

challenging and compelling drama. £3.50 Wednesday 19 January Festen (The Celebration) (18)

A raw, powerful and explicit drama centred on revelations which send a family celebration spiralling to disaster. Presented by SFS Thursday 20 January Beautiful People (15) A manic comedy set in London during the Bosnian war, featuring a motley collection of Brits and Bosnian refugees. £3.50 To join Swindon Film Society (SFS) or further details call 720051

January overview

25

Family Max Millennium and the Time Machine, presented by The Good, The Bad & The Cuddly Puppet Theatre Company. A rts Centre, 2.30pm. £4.50

Omid Djalili High energy ceilidh at the Dance House Saturday 15 Janua ry, 8pm with Florida Ellendune Centre, Wroughton, £6 & £4, family tickets available Advance booking on 641107

Comedy Omid Djalili, presents the best in quickfire comedy with unusual but beautiful music. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Tour National Monuments Record Centre free tour. Leaves The Gallery, NMRC, Great Western Village at 2.15pm. Information on 414700 Wednesday 26 January to Saturday 29 January Amateur Drama Season's Greetings, a witty play presented by The Phoenix Players. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4. Book on 525616 Thursday 27 January Training Research Day, for people wishing to undertake local history projects. The Gallery, NMRC. £20. Information on 414735 The Swindon Society Monthly meeting Queen's Bodyguard

by Mr RA Shergold Wednesday 12 January, 7.30pm Broad Green Centre, Salisbury St Admission 50p, £1 (visitors) For details call 872035

Working on a farm in West Swindon y y y

^

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!

Working Weekend Friday 21 January to Sunday 23 January o A family working weekend, sprucing up the garden and outbuildings of Lower Shaw Farm. No charge. Details on 771080 n,

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Sale starts Tuesday 28th December Pay us a visit and we are sure you will be amazed at the varied and unusual gifts and toys we can offer you for any occasion

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26

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

TRACEY'S Need COMPLETE curtains

CURTAIN 'or.blinds SERVICE made' Prices from:' Curtains £25 • Tiebacks £15.

Pelmets £25 • Austrian blinds £20 Roman blinds £25 • Accessories £5 Hanging from £15 Prices exclude material cost Free estimating and advice Design, making and complete fitting service available Typical delivery 10 days Call Tracey Bake r on 01743 886110

^04 Vtds Professional Quality Cleaning Services Domestic & Business Experienced Staff We suit your needs

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The easy way to go green!

The environment and how we preserve the planet and its resources is going to be the major issue of the 21st Century. Environmental campaigners have been banging on about it for years, but change will only happen if ordinary people put pressure on decision makers and also change the way they live their lives.

One West Swindon family have decided to look at everything they do and start making the small changes that everybody needs to try.

o'

Anna's

Frock Exchange 49 Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill, Swindon # Nearly new quality clothes for ladies and children f Clothes for every occasion at prices you can afford f We sell your garments for you on a commission basis

For further details phone 01793 484713

Going Green: Kristianne Drake, Steve Brown and Roan Did you know that turning the television off at the set rather than using the remote control saves electricity? Or that one dripping tap wastes 5,000 litres of water a year?

These are just two of the tips from 'Action at Home,' a scheme that Wiltshire Agenda 21 is promoting across Swindon and Wiltshire. It aims to help households protect the environment and cut domestic bills. Over the next six

months, The Link will be following the progress of the Drake family, who live in Westlea, as they take part in Action at Home and find out how to go green.

Having paid £5 to join the scheme, Kristianne Drake and Steve Brown and their five year old son Roan, will receive six action packs under the headings of waste, water, energy, shopping, transport and the next steps they could take. The packs contain simple DIY ideas, posters and games for children and specials offers on items like low energy lightbulbs, water butts and more.

Kristianne and Steve started the scheme by filling in a questionnaire to find their 'greenscore.'

"We already recycle paper and bottles and I walk Rowan to school every day, but the questionnaire got us thinking," said Kristianne.

"Now I will remember to turn off the tap when I brush my teeth."

The Drakes tried to have a green Christmas too. This year they reused their plastic tree for the eighth year running and they are recycling all their Christmas cards.

Look out for the first Action at Home report from the Drake family next month. If you want to find out more about the scheme, call Catherine Rice at Wiltshire Agenda 21 on 526 244.

Time capsule seals in memories and hopes for the future Some 3,000 trees were planted at the Millennium Tree Plant between Swindon and Purton in early December.

Organised by The Woodland Trust and the Great Western Community Forest, the event had a special ingredient when a large steel time capsule was buried on the site.

People brought everything from a silver thimble to a telephone, children's toys including a Womble album, family photos and badges.

Also included were many personal messages to the future.

Time capsule builder Jeff Piggot and Julia Warrin from Art Spark with, on the left, Johnathan, Tom and Michael Jefferies from Wroughton. On the right, Daniel and Bethany Foxwell also from Wroughton

Recycle those Christmas cards & trees Swindon's annual Christmas card recycling scheme was launched in December when youngsters at Tregoze Primary School took part in a papermaking workshop organised by the Great Western Community Forest team and the Octobus project.

The children had great fun, getting up to their elbows in mushy pulp and making the link between trees, paper and recycling.

The idea of the scheme is to encourage people to recycle their Christmas cards to support tree planting in the community forest and to reduce landfill.

For every 1000 cards collected, a tree will be planted in the Great Western Community Forest.

Cards can be taken to collection points at Sainsbury's Bridgemead and Stratton stores, between 4 and 31 January.

Christmas trees can also be recycled at the Barnfield Road Civic Making paper at Tregoze, year 5 and 6 children Jordan Smith and Molly Amenity Site.

For more information on the Grey with Michael Lilley, community scheme contact Lisa Perry on forest education officer and Lisa Perry of the community forest team 466316.

Put that spare paint to good use A major new recycling initiative is being undertaken to provide Swindon's voluntary organisations with the opportunity to brighten up their premises for free.

27

The Link Magazine • January 2000

See us on the net © www.swindonlink.com

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iT AI Design a small garden

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Relax with Reflexology

Try out Yoga at a taster session Mr Bush the Dulux dog launches the paint recycling scheme with Mayor councillor Joy Brunt and Chris Fisher of Swindon Scrapstore, Steve Ogden from Save Waste & Prosper and Amelia Craighill Swindon Council's Recycling Officer

Dulux dog Mr Bush, TV star and former Crufts winner, helped launch the Community Re-Paint Swindon scheme at the end of November. This will enable people to donate unwanted re-usable paint, by placing it in a brightly coloured container, at the recycling centre at Barnfield Road, instead of throwing it out.

Swindon Scrapstore has coordinated the initiative with Swindon Council and the national Save Waste and Prosper group. All types

of paint can be donated, including primer, masonry and exterior. It must be in usable condition and in its original container. Scrapstore volunteers collect the paint, sort it and make it available, free of charge, to voluntary organisations such as youth groups, schools and church groups.

Scrapstore is looking for more volunteers to help sort the cans at their base at the Pinehurst People's Centre. If you can spare some time, call Chris Fisher on 513982.

Become your own florist

•

•

•

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f/ Call us to find out more on New College

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

28

OEpATIp

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

Busman becomes steam driver for a day David Burch, Operations Director at Thamesdown Transport bus company swopped hats before Christmas when he spent a day with his family enjoying a birthday present playing with steam trains at the Didcot Railway Centre.

Donning an engine driver's cap when he was nine years old, somehe helped fire up No. 5051 'Earl thing that would not happen toBathurst', one of the Great West- day.

"Working on the Earl Bathurst ern Rail way 'Castle' class locomotives which pulled express pas- was an exciting experience, but not senger trains from 1923 until the something that will catch on," said David. "Steam engines have a roend of steam.

His only similar experience was mantic image now, but I discovbeing invited onto the footplate of ered what hard work it was and a tank engine at Plymouth Station uncomfortable compared to modem engines.

"I take my hat off to the men of the GWR and other railway companies who drove the engines."

Haydon Wick Bowls Club presents a conce rt with the Swindon Male Voice Choir an Ladles Choir Haydon Centre Saturday 29 January, 7.30pm Tickets, £ 41£3.50 concessions, from the Haydon Centre

For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP GUIDE TO MOTOR SERVICING & REPAIRS

CAR ( AUDI SERVICES Repair and service to all makes of car radios and cassettes.

De-code service available Tel: (01793) 480544

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A. D. MOBILE ( ft,.

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24 hour service All work guaranteed Battery homestart Free complete brake check Work carried out at place of work or at home ^O\ ^e

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Tel: (01793) 729774

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The Link Magazine • January 2000

See us on the net © www.swindonlink.com

29

Building for the future Members and supporters of the West Swindon Family & Community Project celebrated the purchase of their own house, thanks to a lottery grant for £99,000 awarded last February, with a big party before Christmas.

The project which has been es- tee made up of local people, said, garage in bright colours to help tablished in a house rented from "it's brilli ant to have been awarded turn it into a soft play area for NCH Action for Children at 15 this grant. We no longer have to children. This is now available to Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook pay rent, so we will have more hire at a small charge.

The advice drop in sessions are for the last fifteen years. Among funds available for project work in the services offered to people liv- the future. We can put more into held on Mondays and Wednes.ing and working in West Swindon the community because we know days from 10am to 12pm and on Fridays from 10am to 1.30pm. are courses, play facilities, adult/ we are here to stay."

If you would like to know more child learning opportunities and The committee now plans to afterschool clubs. Free confiden- improve disabled access, introduce about the West Swindon Family & tial drop in sessions are open to more computer training and im- Community project or would like anyone who needs advice on sub- prove general property mainte- to use their facilities they can be contacted on 871303. jects ranging from housing, ben- nance.

A recent improvement to the efits and employment.

Carol McGill, Company Secre- house was made possible by local tary for the management commit- company Intel, who painted the

Liu Ply, timber, hardboard, chipboard, RSJs, sleepers, telegraph poles, bricks, sand & gravel (in bags) Delivery arranged in Swindon area For more details pop in or tel: 829715 Open: Mon - Sat, 9am - 5pm The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

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The Link Magazine • Ja nua ry 2000

30

Banner links the centuries B ELVOI R

Call for advice on: • Letting your home • Buy to let and let to buy • Rent, legal & household i nsurance services

• Free internet advertising and listing in our nationwide branches • Service individually tailored to your requirements Free information pack on request

•

Prope rty to rent Call for details

Tel: 01793 601631 Check out our website @. www.belvoirgroup.com E-mail: Swindon @ belvoirgroup.com vtz z < P; n M.;^.

A 1960's motorbike and sidecar was the unusual method employed to transport a banner and scroll between two local Women's Institutes in late November.

Launched last May, the banner Keen motorcycling member Sue WI president who said, "it's a and scroll is being passed between Baldwin acted as courier with her lovely way of creating a link beall 165 WI branches in Wiltshire. husband Peter, riding their 1962 tween WI branches and across the Each group was asked to find a 600cc Norton Dominator with 20th and 21st Centuries. The WI is just as relevant for year 2000 and unique way of transportion.

Garrard sidecar, Greenmeadow and Haydon The banner was handed over to beyond, as it has been in the last 80 Wick had an excellent answer to Francis Maisey, president of Toot- years since the first branch was the problem of conveying the items leabrook WI by Sue Williams, formed in Britain."

Founded in Canada in 1897, the Greenmeadow and Haydon Wick to Tootleabrook WI. WI provides a friendship and a Members of the WIs meet for the handover on 20 November social group for women of all ages.

It is non-political but aims to offer the opportunity for members to i mprove their knowledge and speak out on issues of concern.

New members are always welcomed to meetings.

The banner and scroll will continue its travels between Wiltshire WIs until May. Tootleabrook WI meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm in Toothill Community Centre.

For more information call Jean Brock on 539456.

Greenmeadow and Haydon Wick The 21st Century Townswomen's Guild WI meets on the second Monday Are you making a 21st Century resolution to find new friends, asks of the month at 7.30pm in the Haydon Centre, for more information Doreen Shaw.

Then join the West Swindon Townswomen's Guild to be entertained contact Bernice Shailes on 693141.

The first meeting of year 2000 and informed. We meet on the second Thursday of each month at th Link Centre, large meeting room, 2pm to 4pm. You will be most takes place on 10 January with a talk about the canals of Britain. welcome. To find out more call 693707

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Ftness for Y2K

31

On this fitness feature page exactly a year ago we asked if you were going to get ready to party by getting fit during 1999. Well here we are in the 21st Century. Does it mean a new beginning for you?

The season of total excess is over for another year and there is even more reason to think about leading a healthier lifestyle. A recent repo rt concluded that children eat a poorer diet now than they did fo rt y to fifty years ago, which will inevitably lead to health problems in the future.

And a new study has shown that the people of Swindon - although amongst the most wealthy in Brit-

ain - are also some of the most unhealthy. Rates of coronary heart

new for 2000!

li ving beyond age 75 are lower.

The UK average for death by heart disease is 150.7 per 100,000 of the population for men, 54.2 for women. In Swindon the figures are 156.8 and 58.9. People are dying unnecessarily.

There is no question, healthy eating and exercise go hand in hand.

It can be hard at first to fit exercise into a regular regime; so is changing your diet. But there are lots of people who will help you focus on fitness and a healthy life-

^

1

style.

Give your body the stress relief it deserves • Indian Head Massage •

Reiki

• Reflexology For further details, call Jo Newcombe on 0958 920514 or visit www.selfcentred.com

N

•

disease are well above the national average and the chances of

There are many others who will help you relieve the stress in your life and to give you the confidence to look and feel good.

Over the next few pages, there are lots of oppo rt unities to get fit, and lose weight. Whether you are

looking for an aerobics or martial arts class, a diet club or a combination, you will find them here.

And there are many advertisers offering all manner of therapies to help you understand your inner workings, and get to grips with life.

It's a new Century. Enjoy it.

y

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We are looking for 30 individuals to try our incredible martial arts programme during January at no charge. That's right, join our school, LEIGH CHILDS get your uniform and pay nothing until February 2000!

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FITNESS FOR 2000

32

The

'c1joot of Reiki

jeaiing

Learn this ancient healing art Reiki is safe, completely natural and highly effective complementary therapy to all other forms of health care. Reiki is not a religion or a belief system An impo rt ant difference between Reiki and other energy therapies is that once activated in your hands, you have it for life and can treat yourself.

There are just so many oppo rt unities to get fit in mind and body. Swindon Council runs regular Ma rt ial A rt s? See the adve rt s by Leigh Childs and Sarah Nash on the classes in the Rookie lifeguard previous page. programme at the Link Centre.

Aimed at children aged seven to I Workouts? See Bodies by Design below, Rosema ry Conley andAmberley 15, youngsters are taught specific Shields classes opposite and overleaf will get your hea rt pumping.

Slimming? Rosema ry Conley, Slimming World orthe Cambridge Diet will lifesaving skills to help themselves and also others in water. They help you onto the right track and encourage you to stick with it.

Stress busting therapies? See Self Centred head massage and also learn basic resuscitation.

At present there are 14 rookies, reflexology, Fred Taylor Reiki master, Hazel Andrews acupuncture, the some of whom have completed Best of Health centre or Diana Richardson aromatherapy overleaf. three terms now. However beginStress busting goodies?Go to Body & Soul in Wootton Bassett. See their ners can join at any time, provided rt adve overleaf. they can swim 200 metres.

Back problems? Call up Sandra Davies at the Shaw Chiropractic Clinic.

To find out more, call Ruth There's no excuse to get overweight, stressed out or under the weather. Dal ry mple-Smith on 466475.

Ruth Dal rymple-Smith teaches resuscitation to Andrew Nicoll and James Popper

Acupuncture

^Ill ^ll^

Stress, anxiety, joint pain, migraines, low energy levels..?

4

-j-

Did you know that acupuncture. can help these and many other conditions?

Courses available at all levels, nail informal groups, individual a tt ention, comprehensive manual, ce rtificated.

After course guidance and suppo rt .

Reiki Association Master F. J. Taylor, (01793) 849914 or 07775 932984 (mobile) Reiki treatments available £10 per half-hour or f20 per full hour

Make a splash Become a lifeguard

OK, what's it gonna be?

Irabitionai

For more information or an appointmen4 _call

Tel: 01793'887801

J

or

01793 827507

Lic e

^ d

Aromatherap y , Massage and Sports Therapy treatments also available.

WORK OUT EVERY 4Y

•

IN K

WHERE AND WHEN TO FIND A BODIES CLASS DESIGNED FOR YOU MONDAY

WE I N,

Lee's Low Impact Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. 6.45pm to 7.45pm

Beginners with Lee Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7pm to 8pm

Carol's Body Blitz Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. 8pm to 9pm

Carol's Body Blitz Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 8pm to 9pm

Lorna's Shape-Up Peatmoor Primary School Opposite The Chinese Experience 7pm to 8pm

,

SDAM'

Beginners with Lee Li me Kiln Sports Centre, Wootton Bassett. 8.l 5pm to 9pm. Price: £3.30 includes FREE SWIM

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

Lorna's Lorna's Shape-Up Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm

Lorna's Shape-Up Haydonleigh School, Haydon Wick 7pm to 8pm

The Total Body Workout with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7.30pm to 8.30pm

Low Impact with Carol Peatmoor Primary School Opposite The Chinese Experience

Established 1989. Swindon's longest serving independent keep fit organisation

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

SUNDAY Carol's Body Blitz Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. l Oam to 1 1 am Complete Body Workout with Carol Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm • All classes £3.50.

• Pre-payment discounts

7pm to 8pm

Tel:

BY DESIGN LTD.

• Students, Gold Card & OAPs - half price at Holy Trinity, Haydon Leigh and Greendown • Call us for details of personal training

01672-541144 or 0831-098273 Fax: 01672 541367 N®M MO

R't 1P REQUIReni

FITNESS Sway away into the millennium Dance is a great way to keep fit and improve posture, co-ordination and flexibility and Swindon College is really in step New forJanuary 2000 is the sultry sounds of latino rhythm at the Latin American class. Learn jazz steps to up-beat contemporary pop music. Or return to ancient tradition and enjoy an evening of Morris dancing or join a tap class.

All classes are suitable for beginners and people who what to swing into the new millennium.

There are many other courses taking place in West and North Swindon, including for the firsttime in Peatmoor community primary school. If dance is not your scene, why not enjoy yoga, massage or fl ower arranging?

Details from Swindon College on free phone 0800 731 2250

Liz Szymczak runs weekly skipping classes for children and adults and says its a great way of keeping fit.

Her adult class meets on Thursdays between 6pm and 7pm in the Willows Hall at Freshbrook School and new members, men orwomen, are very welcome.

Classes for 6 to 14 year olds are held on Fridays 4pm to 5pm.

All sessions are suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced. It's a great place to pick up new skills and tricks such as single rope, partner skipping, double Dutch, Chinese wheel, and learn to skip to music.

In May, fifty adults and children will attend the national skipping festival at Loughborough. It's time to practice and get fit.

Anyone interested should contact Liz Szymczak on 486112.

Get well with the Hay diet

Get well with the Hay diet will help: Those whose genuine complaints are dismissed as `all in the mind'.

People who feel unaccountably tired, stressed or exhausted Slimmers, especially those who cannot lose weight, however little they eat People who would like to gain weight Digestive, stomach and gut problems Allergic and mysteriously delicate children Nervousness, shyness, anxiety, panic, depression People with mercury amalgam dental fillings whose health problems persist despite everything conventional and alternative medicine offers.

So if you are struggling with any problem which conventional medicine believes you have to live with, you could be surprised and deli ghted to find that you do not.

It is instantly energising and can work wonders for arthritis, asthma, eczema and migraine, to mention but a few. It can help absolutely any illness by putting the body in a better position to heal itself. Prob-

33

Skip into the new century

The Hay Diet encourages you to eat more fresh food, vegetables and salad, to cut out processed foods, and most importantly to separate starch foods from protein food because they have opposite digestive requirements.

Jackie Habgood from Wroughton, author of The Hay diet made easy, recently published a second book, Get well with the Hay diet.

Here she describes the improvements that can be achieved by making a change in what you eat.

Why suffer? Much more can be done for most illnesses than we ever imagine. The Hay diet is supernutrition, a nature cure, and you are on the mend from the moment you begin it.

R 2000

Liz Szymczak, centre, with members of her junior skipping club

Weigh-in Work-out Weigh less Follow Rosemary's new low -fat eating plan which now includes treats.

Combine this with exercise & watch the pounds and inches disappear!

Classes in West Swindon and Wootton Bassett Contact Wendy on (01793) 877750 Membership Pack £6.00 Class Fee £4.25 Exercise-only £3.25 (no membership) Booking advisable

lems which baffle medical minds do not so easily defeat the wisdom of the body.

Competition The books are available in any bookshop. But you can win a copy of both; Jackie has given us one of each to give away.

Tell us which foods should not be eaten together in the Hay diet.

Send your answer to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 18 January.

Open day The Best of Health natural therapy centre, located above Body & Soul in Wootton Bassett High Street, is holding an open day on Saturday 5 February.

It will be a chance to talk to complimentary practitioners who work at and from the centre and discover more about the different therapies available.

Best of Health also offers a range of courses and workshops to learn more about the effects of complimentary therapies.

U

Rosemary Diet

BEST OF HEALTH 127 High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 855266

Therapies available: O Alexander Technique O Aromatherapy O Chiropractic O Crystal Healing O Homoeopathy O Hypnotherapy O Kinesiology

Courses to be held in the New year: O Develop your awareness O Touch for health O Yoga O Meditation O Help yourself to better health

O Reflexology

O How crystals can compliment your therapy

O Reiki

O Speaking Aloud

O Stress management

O Health food tasting

O Traditional acupuncture

O Sound healing

Introducing from February: Past Life Regression

Corv►ing Soon The Link is startingacomplimentary; health page. If you are a therapis would like to advertise, call Jenni Fowler on 872531.

Also: Tarot readings, Aloe Vera products, gift vouchers (£5, £10, £25)

For information on any of the above, please phone or call in

FITNESS FOR 2000

34

Health resolutions for the the new millennium

Bodyline

Dr Adele Steptoe, GP at Ashington House Surgery, Westlea, writes

100% natural hair

Belated seasons greetings. Let's

removal by sugaring

toast our health, wealth and happi-

To book an appointment, call Alison on 724762

ness for the new millennium. Not just a day, a week or a year, but for a whole millennium.

DIANA RICHARD SON MIFHB IHBC IIHHT Mobile Aromatherapas t

A

heart attacks and strokes - less

Beau t yTh erapas 't

Telephone 01793 695185

YOUR NEAREST CLASS Monday: 5.45pm & 8.00pm & Thursday: 7.00pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick Nicole, 338786 Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny, 613423 Thursday: 7.0opm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Rd. Jenny, 613423

Sin and Slim!

Luxurious Chocolate Velvet - the ready to drink Camb ri dge Diet.

Workouts now available in your area Monday 8 to 9pm Westlea Primary School,

Langstone Way Tuesday 7 to 8pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Wednesday 7.30 to 8.30pm Churchfields Upper School, Salcombe Grove Thursday 8.15 to 9.15pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Sunday 10.30 to 11.30am Upper Shaw Community Centre, Ridge Green Also: Aerobics, Thursday 7 to 8pm, Link Centre, West Swindon

Any queries call 01793 726659 STILL ONLY £3.00 PER SESSION Amberley has recently instructed at The News of The Wo rld's "Feel Fab" weekend Also currently appearing in Monica Grenfel's "Get Back Into Your Jeans" fitness video

salt and fat lowers blood pressure.

Next we need to get moving swim, skate or stroll. Sports facili-

ties are available close-by. Whatever you choose, do it regularly and energetically. Lose the car keys, walk or cycle daily and you

have at least a 30 per cent less chance of dying of a heart attack.

It hurts at first, but soon you will appreciate the buzz that exercise gives by stimulating the release of

Over 50s fitness Swindon Council is making a big push to get older people into its 'young at heart' activity and leisure programme.

There are a growing number of

Tempted?

classes in various centres and a

'Phone your Cambridge Diet Counsellor on 873201

quarterly newsletter ai med at older people, containing fitness information, recipes and topical tips.

Forfurther information, call June Newton, below, 50+ development officer on 465672.

Only £2.95 weekly. £6.95 membership

^^ ultimatey^' * Top To Toe *

So, now to transform the rest of our lives.

Let's all, big and small, improve our diet. Start reading the labels and make the healthy choices less salt, less fat and more fibre.

For those who want to lose weight, less calories and less sugar too.

Do not starve, just enjoy some vegetables and reduce the risk of

endorphins (natural opiate like substances) that lift your mood. You will look good, feel good and have fun.

Cigarettes: they just have to go.

Smoking contributes to numerous illnesses which affect all ages, e.g. prematurity and growth retardation in unborn babies, asthma and cot death in children, thromboses (blood clots) in young women, and of course strokes and heart attacks (Britain's number one kille rs).

Do something about it before it does something about you. Nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum or spray) roughly doubles cessation rates. Look forward to treating yourself with your savings.

With these resolutions enjoy being healthier, wealthierand happier. Speak to your practice nurse for information on a new lifestyle for the new millennium.

Anley \^19% ^C

Weigh-in

Work-out Weigh less Classes at Greenmeadow School, Penn Close Wednesday 6pm - 7.30pm Abbey Meads

13t•ify Soul

Community School, Thursday 7.45pm - 9.15pm Call Sally on (01793) 731148 Membership £6.00 Class fee £4 (First class £10 then £4 weekly)

THE ROMATHERAPY SHOP

BACK PAIN If you are suffering from:

Pure essential oil and aromatherapy blends prepared for individual needs, prices from £2 l9Nl 0 Decorative indoor water features 0 Bath bombs and soap by the slice i Fun T shi rt s with novelty messages a Copper bracelets, relaxation music 0 Body piercing jewelle ry in surgical steel, gold plate, 9ct gold or titanium 127 High Street Wootton Basse tt Tel: 01793 849111 Mon - Sat gam - 5.30pm

0 Backache, Leg pain O Neck, Shoulder, FREE ChiroArm Pain

-

O Headache checks

& Migraine avaitabl O Sciatica 0 Sports Injury 0 Whiplash You should consider Winners in our December 1999 competitions Bugwomp Mr Billing, Washpool, Shaw Wyvern pantomime Mrs Flay, Keycroft Copse, Peatmoor Millennium party Mr Morris, Featherwood, Westlea Time Team book Mrs J Coates, Wirral Way, Ash Brake Julian White, Yarmouth Close, Toothill

consulting a Chiropractor SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C.

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic Shaw Village Centre

Tel: (01793) 887801 'I

'I 'I

Member of the British C' Chiropractic Association

Smoking at West Swindon Centre o ffends shoppers Toothill resident Ted Spalding wants smoking banned inside the West Swindon Centre, like it is in the Designer Outlet Village and the Brunel Shopping Centre.

Mr Spalding says he has regularly seen people smoking around provisions in Asda and cigarette butts on the floor.

And although Asda's restaurant is designated a no-smoking area, he believes the design of the building means that cigarette smoke wafts upward from the shopping floor below.

He worries that children left to play whilst their parents shop are being exposed to passive smoking. As an asthmatic himself, he was particularly concerned to see a young child in the Playbus area having to use an inhaler.

"Surely people can do without cigarettes for as long as it takes them to do the shopping," he said.

"What I'd like to see is 'No Smoking' signs on all the entrances to the centre, with reminders on the Playbus and perhaps on the Asda enquiry desk."

Mr Spalding says he has been in touch with Asda, both locally and via their head office, but so far, no action has been taken.

His criticism is joined by West Swindon resident Mike Taylor who finds it offensive to walk into the shopping centre through a veil of cigarette smoke. "I would like to know if the question of the health of visiting children and the staff from Asda and the other shops has ever been considered. Other Swindon shopping areas are non smoking, why not West Swindon?"

Asda Swindon spokeswoman Bev Tyler said that there was a strict no smoking policy in-store.

"For the benefit of our customers

New millennium - new mortgage Year 2000 is upon us and the momentus turn of the centu ry is now but a memo ry, writes Mike Rees of West Swindon's longest established mortgage brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates. And now that the future is before you, though the effects of Christmas spending still lingers, this may be an appropriate time to review finances with a view to obtaining the best mortgage deal.

In the latter half of 1999, the mortgage industry suffered its fair share of criticism, some of it justified, overextensive'tie-in' periods on certain fixed and discounted products, with borrowers faced with .. overlyhighpenalties of extra interest on

and discounted rates at present. A new $ mortgage could therefore mean a reduction in your monthly outgoings, perhaps guaranteed not to increase for a certain term, eg fixed rate, and give fJ you peace of mind go ing into the 21st Cen-

''

redemption.

We at Mansfield Begbie Associates have long been recommending mortgage and remortgage products that do not have 'tie-in' periods and are fully portable in the event of house moves during the term of the special rate. This enables borrowers to move with the mortgage, subject of course to normal lending criteria and status at the time of the move, However with interest rates apparently on the way back up, it now may be a good time to re assess your financial situation by considering a remortgage to consolidate existing loans or carry out home improvements at preferential interest rates, and some lendersare offering very attractive fixed

35

The Link Magazine • January 20 00

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

tury.

With the benefit of advice from any broker you have the advantage of a wide range of mortgage choices, rather than fromjust one lender.. It makes sense to shop around, and even more sense for a broker to do it on your behalf. As long as you remember the main objectives of no extended 'tie-ins', full portability and other added flexible options if required, such as ability to repay sections of the loan without penalty, you could start the millennium with a healthier financial situation.

If you require advice on your mortgage please call Mansfield Begbie Associates on 01793 772779.

Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loan secured on it.

and staff there is no smoking in the store and the restaurant and we have a no smoking sign at the lottery ticket booth.

"Staff can only smoke in a designated room which is fitted with a powerful air conditioning system."

Asda also controls the mall at the West Swindon Centre. Naomi Duggan at company headquarters in Leeds said smoking was not perceived as a problem and there had been no complaints.

"The enforcement of a smoking ban in the mall would be difficult and we also cater for many customers who smoke. There are no plans for a policy change but we always listen to our customers and would welcome their views on this matter."

What do you think? Let The Link know. Address on page 3.

O(I(S7E

Give life through a Prospect box Thousands of houses in Swindon will have collecting boxes for the Prospect Hospice in them, and many will be gathering dust.

Boxescoordi-

nator Gillian Richardson is

making an appeal for them to bebroughtback into use. " Ever

y

penny counts," says Gillian. s^•° "The boxes are essential to Prospect, which has to find eighty per cent of its £1.8 million running costs from voluntary sources. In 1998 the boxes raised £105,000."

New boxes can be obtained at any of Swindon's five Prospect charity shops or by calling Gillian on 815142.

CHIROPODIST Advanced Reflexologist

Host Families wanted for French teenage students on full-time courses, 25 June - 29 July For details please

& Kinesiologist CLINIC AT HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh : MI1R, ASK UJ

1

contact Nita Martin on (01672) 539368 or (01672) 539561

Call (01793) 849914 anytime

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA

e ifitf h'y y

}

Telephone: 01793 613334

ore

Answermachine - all calls returned

feet?

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Book your appointment with Ma rt in Drew MBcHA, MSSch

CHIROPODIST

Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP

Children's verruca surgery open.

All other aspects of foot care catered for.

Chartered Physiotherapist

Call free anytime on ,, 0800 731 6879

Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703

Home visit service or come p to our modem town centre suraer y t

60 High Street Wootton Bassett

36

SERVICE SECTOR Getting a clear TV picture isn't difficult

`G RA' ACCOUNTANCY

• Business Start Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax Short & long term assistance and projects Free initial meeting

Tel/fax: 01793 871790 Free phone: 0800 5422 778

FT..

A s s, s r D, n c

Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

Call Abbey Aerials of Haydon Wick :• Multi-point systems :• Satellite installations :• Poor reception f area specialists ar ) S Amplifiers :• All work guaranteed :• 7 days a week •:• 100% customer satisfaction

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

Call for a free estimate on (01793) 729794 or mobile 0402 921551

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

Same day, local service wherever possible

^

Washing Machines ^,;f1Y<<^ Twin Tubs, etc.

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

Ci'#^;^i^ULlf!

Empire Construction Limited O UPVc conservatories O Property renovations O Garage & loft conversions O Painting & decorating O All professional craftsmen

GK

Professional DECORATORS painter, decorator & ceramic tiler Tel: 01793 701394 Mobile: 0777 5894563 Interior & exterior painting and decorating Ceramic tiling Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

All interior and exterior work unde rt aken

KOVINWHILAI High Quality Painting & Decorating

For free estimate call Paul on

Interior & Exterior

or 07712 749315

01793 725699

STEVE PACKER ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

THE ODD J OB MAN

Empire Plumbing & Heating

• Fully qualified electrician • Domestic, commercial and industrial installations • Quality workmanship guaranteed • Free quotations • 24 hour call-out

Small building work, carpentry, joinery, painting & decorating, fitted wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fitted

Whatever you need, we're here to help you

Tel: 01793 436539 Mobile 07775 621764 or 0973 760167

"No job too small" Very reasonable prices Free estimates

Tel: 01793 436844 Mobile 0976 691989

Wilts Flat Roofing Specialist • All aspects of flat roofing • Strip and retile, all repairs

•

A quality job at a

competitive price Tel: (01793) 701110 Mobile: 07979 392403

Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793-886022

PFSHPFS SECURITY C C T V SYSTEMS SYSTEMS

Intruder Alarms/CCTV, Access Control Installation/Maintenance of Intruder/Fire Detection Systems IS09002 Ce rtified Installer • NACOSS

74 Victoria Rd. Swindon Tel: 642792 email: pfssecurity@msn.com www. pfs-securitysystems.co.uk

4111 Master locksmith • Safe engineers Over 21 Years service in the (t CI ^I JJII^ security business 24 hour emergency call out service Free survey & estimates Safe opening & servicing Supply & fit all types of lock & access control systems CCTV, alarm systems • Digital locks Burglar bars & grilles made to insurance industry standards AA approved • Member of MLA Chubb • Yale • Union

Swindon 01793 644367 Mobile 0860 553575

FOR FREE QUOTATIONS, RING

O Boilers & central heating O Bathrooms & showers O Servicing & fault finding Installations, repairs and maintenance Whatever you need, we're here to help you Tel: 01793 436539 Mobile: 0973 760167 Mobile: 07775 621764

Deb's Sun beds

Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters Doubles also available Free installation & local delive ry Tel: Swindon 421665

anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

• Most leading brands. `""`i [ • Guaranteed repairs ..

• Same day service No call out charge • No VAT

A SUDS

Repairs to most makes 3 Washing Machines

of:

3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed

Dave Ody THE BARGAIN CENTRE

For all your domestic & commercial requirements

Electrical domestic appliances bought and sold

New installations • Showers

• Top cash prices paid for goods up to 5 years old

Re-wires • Security lighting

• Repairs to electric cookers • Full warranty & free delivery

Extensions • Extra sockets • New fuse boards No VAT charges • Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 0585 543294 . Ramleaze, Swindon

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • Boiler se rv icing & repairs (^^ • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations R'°"°'`

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 0973 663367

PREMIER

PROPERTY SERVICES Whatever you need, we will be able to help • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Plumbing • Electrical • Decorating • Carpent ry • General • Wood fl ooring building Friendly and efficient se rv ice

,,--Specialists in repairs of ' TVs, videos, satelite, microwaves, audio equipment & in car hi ti's Free estimates 30A COUNTY ROAD, SWINDON

Tel 01793 423371 Mobile 0976 752073

For Sale Kitchen table, white top, 36 ins sq, with 4 detachable pine legs, £19 ono.

Dark wood bookcase, 44 x 30 x gins, £10 ono. Tel: 879401 Two seater settee and two armchairs, £100. Tel: 520058 Two brass wall lights, (switchable, and 2 arm flush ceiling pendants, £69 ono.

Double radiator, 38 x 24 ins, gd cond, £24 ono. Tel: 879401 Larger size ironing board, surface approx 54" x 15", £10. Tel: 886487 TV/video unit with sliding base shelf, black, vgc, gd quality make, approx 17" x 18" x 29", bargain at £15. Tel: 495784 Free standing Bistro gas cooker, gd cond, £40. Tel: 879097 Zanussi spin dryer, nearly new, £75.

Tel: 874527 Beautiful gold Accurist watch, £20.

Tel: 874178 Centon DF 300 SLR camera, 50mm lens, plus tele zoom lens etc. Tel:

raincovers, sun canopy, cosytoes, 2 aprons, £150 ono. Mamas & Papas 2 in plus pram as new condition, bargain £150 ono. Tel: 879558 Klippan carrytot Royale car seat, 0-9 months, navy with head hugger, excel cond, used for one child. only £20 ono.

Tel: 879558 Mamas & Papas cot bumper & duvet set, unisex teddy bear design, as new condition, £10 ono. Tomy sound around monitor, £8. Mother Care bottle/food warmer £6, Mother Care electric steam sterilizer, good cond, £9. Tel:

872421

Golf clubs, Spalding Top Flite Tour, 35W plus Ryna craft 3+5 wood, exc cond, £150. Tel: 875914 Golf club, Nicklaus 'The Bear' metal 3-wood, graphite shaft, vgc, cost £200, bargain at £70 ono. Tel: 881353 Hexel skis, 120cm with sticks, boots 4/5, excel cond, offers? Tel: 879758 Smith Corona XD4800 word processing typewriter, excel cond, £35. Tel:

879558

Cosatto San Antonio changing station, large drawer, 2 shelves, safety rails, antique ash, exc cond, cost £180 bargain at £70 ono. Tel: 881353 Oak effect display cabinet, height 5.5 ft, length 6.5 ft. excel cond, £100 ono.

Tel: 339686 Wooden table, 3.5 ft by 2 ft, £10. Tel:

423910

Lexmark 1020 inkjet printer, suitable for IBM compatible PC, £30 ono. Tel:

704169

705259

Single divan bed, pine headboard, £30. Children's toys and boys clothes from 0-2 yrs. Pine cot & bedding £30.

Wedding dress size 10/12, £50. Tel:

Goodmans auto reverse car cassette stereo & radio, excel cond, retail value £160+, bargain for £40. Tel: 874178.

VW Golf GTi, 8 valve, 3 dr, D reg, metallic grey, 108k mis, 15" BBS alloys, £1800. Tel: 887759 Rover 114 SLI auto 1995 M reg, excel cond, sun roof, stereo, FSH, central locking, British racing green, 30,500 mis, £3000 ono. Tel: 525043

872531

Dining table, round, pedestal, centre leaf extension, 4 chairs, black ash, needs attention, £50. Tel: 706087 after 8pm Large, very sturdy Rubbermaid plastic computer style desk, grey/green, 44" (w) x 28" (d) x 32" (h), exc cond, £50 ono. Tel: 881353 Folding guest bed with sprung interior mattress, open size 80 x 190cm, exc cond, £39 ono. Tel: 879401

Wanted Folding climbing frame, suitable for 3-5 yr olds. Tel: 881271

High standards guaranteed

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads.

Call 525671 or Mobile 0973 760167

Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space

Seen a photo r^^ ILLIAMS V you want? l&

& VIDEO

For Sale Silver Cross 1979 coach built pram, navy, detachable body, shopping tray, excel for baby, easy to push, £75. Tel: 771640 Ikea child's desk (with cupboard & drawer units) & chair, suit under 6 yr old, excel cond, £19 ono. Child seat to fit on adult bike, with all fittings, vgc, £10 ono. Tel: 879401 Pine cot and mattress with some bedding, well used, but in gd cond, £30.

Tel: 886334 Mamas & Papas 3 in t pram, separate pushchair, large wheels,

Pictures in The Link are taken in colour, even if they appear in black and white.

Copies are available at £1.50 for 6" x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." To get a copy(ies), send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD. Specify the month and page the photo appears on, with brief description, and don't forget your name, address and telephone number. Photos will be mailed within two weeks.

Tel:

TI Name & Address (not for publication)

All adve rt s will a pear in The Link and on the swindonlink internet web site L--------------------J

Notice from The Friends of Freshbrook School We would like to thank The Book Club Association of Swindon for kindly sponsoring Father Christmas to attend the Christmas Fayre. The jolly Santa was a huge success with all the children.

We would also like to thank Asda of West Swindon for the kind donations they contributed to the school's Christmas Fayre

38

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

Fair shares through your shopping Chocolate cake, honey cake, coffee cake, fruit cake. Eve ry one has their favourite. But do the people who grow the coffee and cocoa beans, the dried fruit or the sugar that make our baking so delicious get a fair price for their produce?, asks Jo Polack.

No is the answer to the question, whole. Fairtrade products are now Another way of helping is to For more informa- IFairtradel not unless we buy Fairtrade. Wilt- available in most supermarkets produce a local Fairtrade Direc- tion on any aspect of shire Agenda 21 is planning to and health food shops. tory listing stockists in your area. Fairtrade, contact Jo Polack, So, whether you want to organ- Fairtrade Co-ordinator fortnight of events from 4 to 19 Fairtrade is a chance for real March to highlight who gets 'a fair change in the new millennium. All ise a coffee morning with friends, Wiltshire Agenda 21 share of the cake.' You can get across Wiltshire people will hold a Mad Hatter's Tea Par ty in your Elm Tree Court, Long Street, involved in many practical ways. Fairtrade cake baking competi- village hall, or an evening of Afri- Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1NJ The Fairtrade mark guarantees tions, coffee mornings, tastings, can music then call 01380 729218 E mail: wiltshireagenda2l@ that farmers have been paid a fair fashionshowsandFairtradebreak- for your free ac ti on pack. compuserve.com wage and work in decent condi- fasts to show that everyone can ti ons. Fairtrade enables farmers to have a 'fair share of the cake.' work with respect for their local The fortnightisco-ordinatedby Household items needed for Kosovan families environment and the planet as a the Wiltshire Fairtrade Coalition The Asylum Seekers' Support Group is looking for household items for which includes Fairtrade groups, Kosovan families in Swindon who are moving into unfurnished rented Wiltshire Churches Together, Wilt- accommodation.

Although foam filled items like upholstered furniture and mattresses OTEX shire Agenda 21, Christian Aid an d cannot be accepted for fire safety reasons, almost anything else will be Oxfam.

The coalition is looking for more welcome, from net curtains to pots and pans. The group has no storage Painter & Decorator people to organise events and has space, so please call Stephanie Glennie on 872578, between 4.30pm and produced an action pack contain- 10pm to arrange a collection when the items are needed for a family.

Specialist Artexing ing ideas for events, information on an d availability of Fairtrade Tel: (01793) 791388 products and publicity tips.

DC

Speaking up for others

Swrndon Advocacy Movement is loo rng for more vo 1unteers to become citizen advocates, writes Rachel Thomas.

As an advocate you would be official body, exploring all the opmatched with a person with a tions when moving house, making learning difficulty (which used to better links with the local commube referred to as mental handicap). nity, and support during meetings.

No specific experience is necesAn advocate spends time building up a relationship with their 'part- sary, but a strong belief in the rights ner,' but the main role would be to and value of people with a learnrepresent their views, wishes and ing difficulty is. Training, inforrights. mation and ongoing support is You would be matched with given and we pay expenses. The someone according to the time you next training begins in January. have available, where you live and For more information on becomwhat your interests are. Advocates ing an advocate, or if you know get involved in many different is- someone who may need one, sues, like making complaints to an 'phone Rachel Thomas on 465640.

IS

7 days a week...

Rubbish Removals

KELLYS SKIPS

Household

1.5, 2, 2.5, 3 yard skips

& garden waste

01793 849416 or

disposed of for you!

Call (01793) 772268

07771 657508 ...... 7 days a week

STRESSED!

Play the Piano

In need of relaxation?

Reflexology or Aromatherapy could be the answer Call Isabel on 01793 720065

"ice Learn to Sing Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

IIfIIIII Professional Hairdressing in your own home Cuts fro m £3.50 For appointments, call Tracey on 878217

Fully insured. IIHHT qualified. Qualified nurse Answer machine, all calls will be answered No men for massage, only for reflexology

New mediation project recruits first volunteers

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency requires Domesti c Cle an ers & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112

Community Mediation Swindon is setting up a team to help neighbours resolve disputes.

Introductory information sesAssistance with child care costs sions for people who want to be- may be available come volunteer community meTo reserve a place or to receive diators and learn mediation skills further information call Martin for free take place on: Couchman on 484383, e-mail: Saturday 15 January and Tuesday cms@ukgateway.net 25 January, 10am - 3.30pm in the The cost of the day is £5 (£2 for town centre. gold card/concession holders).

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre)

8

N

St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244

- .

Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620

o,

(this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

FAMILY CHURCH Live with integrity Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS 10.30AM AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

& PINEHURST

(also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417

SWINDON

PEOPLE'S CENTRE

w

A

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

All ages of children &teens cared for Information: call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

BC The person who changed History is changing peoples lives Today

AD

o^Evanget S - Worsley Road D

y

2

t

m m ^n o

m

m_

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

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

39

A new start for the world's poor To mark the new millennium the Church of England has set three major objectives, one of them being a new start for the world's poor. This theme was brought to life by six local churches in West Swindon which united to perform 'A Musical of Hope: The Feast of Life' created for Christian Aid. Producer Claire Carom describes the production The sell out performances at Greendown School on 3 and 4 December powerfully conveyed the Jubilee 2000 message through music, dance and drama, that the year 2000 should be celebrated by the setting free from debt of the world's poorest countries.

Since developing countries annually have to repay three times as much as they receive in emergency aid from Western governments, it is estimated that 52 countries will never be free from debt.

sented by a special guest, one of the poorest countries in the world ' Mozambique.'

On stage were the amazing acrobats 'Loza Debts' and two tightrope walkers' Western Banks' who lead Mozambique along a tightrope between life and death. In attendance were the jugglers'IMF' and 'World Bank' who force her to juggle with the impossible demands of imports, exports, debts and 'structural adjustments' (economic reforms).

so many millions of her children are dying. 'Loza Debt' has no reply, but instead leaps on Mozambique's back, to be carried forevermore, until the circus is stopped.

The music, written by Garth Hewitt, gave vibrant expression to the hopes and dreams of the poor for justice, peace and freedom. This was performed by a choir of some 40 singers including 10 children who sang solo in several songs, and a group of nine adult and young musicians. Sixteen dancers, children and adults, gave further emphasis and expression to the music.

About£700 was raised for Christian Aid to help developing countries. The churches involved would like to express sincere thanks to Greendown School for the use of their facilities.

If you would like to know how you can help bring justice and peace to the world's poor, please contact: Christian Aid Supporter Relations, PO Box 100, London SEl 7RT, tel 0171 523 2229.

Finders Keepers Property Letting and Management

£50 cashback!

Introduce a friend who becomes a landlord

and for whom we arrange a six month let, and we will give you a

£50 cash reward (Offer closing date: 31/1/00. Conditions apply)

6

Town Square West Swindon Centre ^+

.

INv6STOR INPEOPLF,

Swindon SN5 7DL NAEA

Tel: (01793) 886200 Fax: (01793) 886686

n. ONDW

FOR

www.christian-aid.org.uk In the meantime, mil li ons of children are dying in these countries due to lack of spending on healthcare, sanitation and adequate food.

Education past primary age is nonexistent in many countries, which of course means a limited future for the children and for their countries ...............

In the musical, the story of the debt problem was presented as a circus, with the Third world repre-

Along the way Mozambique is splattered with custard pies by the Slapstick Clowns 'Dodgy Governments' who stitch her up and strip her of her dignity. There is no relief when the Unique Unicyclist called' Western Government' gives her money with one hand but snatches away three times as much with the other.

Finally, Mozambique questions why the debt must be repaid when

Swindon People's Millennium Book Swindon World Development Movement has opened a book in which people can write down and express their hopes and commitment for an end to the debt crisis in the poorest countries of the world, writes Chris Thackray.

The book is available for signing at the Swindon Central Library until 14 January. It is one of many throughout the country being promoted

by Jubilee 2000, the international campaign for debt relief. During 2000 the books will be collected and discussions are underway with national museums to preserve them.

If you are unable to add your comments in person you can send in your contribution on plain A4 to 12 Kent Road, Swindon SNI 3NJ or email it to swindonwdm@yahoo.com The text in the book is: The dawning of a new millennium is an auspicious moment. How we mark this moment will define the next one thousand years.

Debt bondage leads to a loss of autonomy and dignity, to disease, hunger, poverty and death. Debt bondage is nothing more than a failure of human will.

In this book, we as members of the human family, will each write down and express our hopes and dreams our fixed determination and our personal commitment to a different world in the new millennium.

So that the strength of our collective human will can bring an end to the debt slavery that impoverishes a billion people."

Lotin^brok gbro e 3otet, R e5to.uro.ut

&far Offering • 8 new en-suite double rooms, centrally heated, double glazed and overlooking fields, each with colour television and tea/coffee making facilities • Extended 30 cover restaurant with comprehensive menu, cooked to order

• Refurbished bar area with snacks and light meals, cask beers: 6X, Worthington, Bass, lagers, ciders, fine wines and spirits • Country location, one mile from West Swindon, close to M4 junction 16 Known to be a licensed hostelry

before 1841, The Bolingbroke is now established as a friendly, welcoming country restaurant and bar with excellent accommodation for elation, friends and the business person.

The Bolingbroke Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett, Swindon Tel: (01793) 852357 • Fax: (01793) 854972 ant & bar open daily: 12noon - 2.30pm; 7pm - 10.30pm. All major credit cards a c cepted

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• •

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RE-MORTGAGE SPECIAL A fixed rate of 6.75% (APR 7.00%) for 7 years. No fees. Legal fees paid.

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CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'.

Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5151731 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 222123 Credit broker lees

of up to 1% on the advance may he charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied is 5.34% (5.5% APR) for two years. APR Invariable Roles may vary. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over Subject to status. Subject to our current lending crtaria. A 1.9% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 7.24%. A life assurance policy may be required.

Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both nonsmokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 March 2000 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments nat of tax of £205.62. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable 0134,295 calculated to include valuallon lee 0155. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan It 50,000. The rate applies to loans up to and including 75% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable for two years, altar which the than current rate will apply.

When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the form of a Risk Charge. Rates correct at time of going to press.

R EMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT