January 2005 Swindon Link

1

;

y^

No. 272 • January 2005 • Circulation 24.000

and the swindon wide what's on guide

You could win £1,000 Find the slogan on the left and link it with an important Swindon charity featured in this edition and we'll put you in a draw to win a

grand.

Send your entry to The Link, address on page 4 and we'll buy the winner six months' worth of charity lottery tickets where the top prize is £1,000.

Closing date: 16 JanJary

Into another amazing news year for The Link - Swindon's most closely read publication Inside this month: • Girls in fashion shoot - page 2

Happy New Year

• Swindon lad meets the Queen - page 3

from Mr Ali and

• To build or not to build at Coate -page 4 & 5

-^

his staff at "Purton 's hidden Indian treasure"

• Crime & Disorder in West Swindon - page 10 • Which West Swindon primary school will close - page 11 • Our Euro Link - page 19 .... and loads more

Mahavvajah Fully licenced Tandoori & Balti Restaurant

Happy

6 High Street, Purton

New Year

Tel: 01793 770998/770253 Fax: 01793 770998

Free takeaway delivery incl. West & North Swindon Open: 7 days a week, 5.30pm to midnight

It's all there in lights, thanks

(incl Bank Holidays)

Sunday lunch: 12noon - 2.30pm

to another

The Mohoralah

Fre y +^a FtOn parking

spectacular

from

Purlon Roatl

Hayd., q^8 Meatls

display in Westlea

by Benwell Close, residents Richard

r.^uice^i

Peaim or.

Ni Eims

sparcens

8 Shaw Westlea. Fre hhro^, Grange Park, Tootttill

and Karen Parker

and Jayne and Trevor Dowell

SWI9[w [c GLOUCESTERCONsERvA'AoRlEs

'A room with a view' CONSERVATORIES • WINDOWS & DOORS UPVC FASCIA & GUTTERING O Free 3D dimension drawing :) References available 0 Free survey and quotations 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Tel/Fax 01793 331551 Mobile 07775 621764 or 07799 284998

2

The Link Magazine • January 20 05

New year may offer career opportunity to glamour kids Being a birthday girl or boy on 24 December means that all the fun of becoming a year older can get mixed up in Christmas preparations.

But this year Vanessa Evans from Shaw was determined that her daughter Grace was going to remember her 13th as a very special occasion by fixing up a photo shoot with teen magazine Mizz.

As the publication uses lots of youngsters for modelling features, Vanessa was able to persuade the fashion editor to give Grace and Bra don Forest School friend Abby Hayes a break.

Vanessa explained why she made an extra effort for Grace's birthday treat. "It can be disheartening if your birthday falls at Christmas because friends are with their families and attractions shut early; we've always had to organise parties in early December.

"I wanted to make this year memorable for Grace and it only took a few calls to get Mizz to understand that asking two Swindon girls to model was just as easy as contacting a London agency."

Once Mizz agreed it was VIP treatment all the way, with an all expenses paid trip to London for a

Why not join us for our next ALPHA COURSE

'

at Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road starting on: Wednesday 19 January (evening) For details, contact us

on 873050 or mail: office@freshbrook.org

CURTAINS TO SATISFY EVERY REQUIREMENT Free estimating, design and advice Home visits by appointment Make-up and fitting service ^ eeee ee^i e

makeover and a fashion shoot for how embarrassing it could be. But two features, one on styles for the it was great doing the photos. EveNew Year to appear on 29 Decem- rybody at the studio was really ber and another showing off the nice and put us at our ease. latest in pyjamas for an edition in "Abby and I did not do any posing before we went to London, late January.

Abby said she screamed with honest. We just practised our excitement when told that the smiles a little."

Vanessa said the photographer photo call had been arranged. "I was impressed knew that Mizz models, G rac y and Abby with Grace and Grace's mum Abby. "Both was trying to get girls have poise it organised and and balance it was really diffrom dance ficult not to let classes and the secret out." cross country ^,r Grace said it running. Everytook a few minbody in the stuutes for the idea , j' 'o W' . dio thought of modelling for they must have U Mizz to sink in. done some "It was like modelling and shock, thenIwas were surprised jumpingwithe\this was a first citement, then I time." started thinking

,I

New Year activities at Peatmoor Community School Ballet for 3 to 4 years A five week course starts on

11

January, 2.45pm to 3.15pm. Cost £10.

Contact the community office on 881613 to book a place (Leave a message if unattended).

Hatha Yoga (for adults)

Classes restart on Tuesday 11 January, 7.30pm to 9pm. Book by the session. Turn up and participate or call Jackie Galati on 876380 for details.

BUROEN1 160 County Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 529050

r0

AND

£29.00

BLINDS OF ALL KINDS • Wooden • Venetian • New linen • Roman • Verticals • Roller

TV - Hi Fi - Appliances Panasonic • Philips • Hitachi • JVC Hotpoint • Siemens • Bosch

• New Eastern materials

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM at k. v H ICKLADE RD or call Tracey or Amanda on 01793 611051

Seeing is believing

The Link Magazine • January 2005 3

The President entertains the Queen in Manchester Three and half years ago Stephen George from Westlea had to use all his powers of persuasion to gain a place at Manchester University. Now he is the president of the largest student union in Europe and in i October spent an hour talking with the Queen. sources it needs to operate. city, almost a third of whom come Steve, a pupil at Westlea and "Many other student unions are Greendown schools and a student from overseas. He also oversees at Swindon College, graduated in eight full time and six part time working along similar lines and as universities are major players in July to take up the union position staff, and a £6 million turnover.

His days are taken up with meet- regional economies, they are also for a year.

Although he had campaigned ings with university management calling on local councils to adopt for election at Easter, knowing that and resolving student union staff- fair trade policies as well. It's somethe winner would be the first presi- ing problems arising from the thing we are debating with Manchester City Council at the modent of a huge student body, fol- merger. ment." lowing the amalgamation of See Stephen and the Queen at Manchester University and www.manchester.ac.uk / inaugurathe University of Manchester tion Institute of Science and Technology, he had no idea that a Royal visit was being considered.

CYCLE REPAIRS "It's been an amazing year so far," said Steve. "One week Reduced winter rates I' m guiding freshers round the bars and nightlife of Mancheson repairs & servicing ter, the next I'm sitting next to Free collection the Queen at lunch after she had presented the combined and delivery universities with the Royal from home or Charter. work "The ceremony was formal He said the big issue is the introbut with modern touches with speeches from the Vice-Chancel- duction of top up fees in 2006 and lor, then Secretary of State for Edu- working with the university to encation Charles Clarke and Anna sure less well off students have acFord, who was the first woman cess to a generous bursary package. student union president in the Other union concerns are the rise of the British National Party on 1960s.

"My speech was cut from the campus - their activities were programme which I was quite re- banned by a huge turnout at a lieved about, so my job was to lead student union general meeting the Queen and the speakers onto and getting Manchester Council stage carrying the new university to set up campus polling stations mace, all gold and encrusted with in time for the general election.

Steve is particularly pleased with jewels, quite bling really. I'm over six foot and the Queen is compara- the progress in getting the univertively small, so it was surprisingly sity to adopt fair trade policies. difficult to both carry the mace "The university appears commitand keep my mortar board on ted to diversity and opportunity, while all the time maintaining a and as an organisation with a large dignified pace." number of international students, Steve was placed next to the the union is pushing for those prinQueen on the top table for lunch ciples to be applied to the way the following the ceremonial events, university invests its funds and where she made a positive impres- procures the materials and resion on him. "I was ambivalent Mace cam shot. Her Majesty and the President of the Univerabout Royalty sity of Manchester Professor Alan Gilbert being led by Steve but I happily hold the mace onto the stage for the inauguration ceremony admit, the Queen won me over. I was surprised by her amusing and sometimes indiscrete comments. She departed wishing me the best of luck for the future."

Backintheoffice Steve is responsible for the welfare of over 37,000 students across the

BIKE

DOCTOR

For a fast, friendly service, call Phil Mitchell on 874873 day or eve. or 07850 650956 (mobile)

a I v n,•rE

Charles Lucas & Marshall

We're on side For experienced, practical help call

Swindon 511055

,„s

WmidWinter Effective computer solutions at affordable prices Specialising in domestic user home visits • Virus Protection/Removal PC and Server Health Checks • Website Design and Implementation Hardware Procurement Networking Solutions/Troubleshooting Tel: 01793 706806 Mobile: 07762 645296

Alicvosolt,

R EGISTERED Member

Can Chiropractic help me?

How much will it cost?

We are often asked, "What's the best wa. of finding out whether a doctor of chiropractic can help m. problem?"

We believe the answer can be found in a complete chiropractic consultation and examination, including x-rays. And to help find out for sure, we will do a complete consultation and examination, including x-rays, if necessary, for just

£15.

These procedures normally cost £100 or more!

(Does not include personal injury cases or car accidents resulting in insurance claims.)

Testimonial Hi! Something amazing has happened!

On Friday evening I went out with Dale to the cinema, had a Chinese, afew glasses of wine stayed up until midnight!!

Nothing amazing about that 1 hear you say. But for nie it is! I have not been out with my husband on a Friday night for several years. All the weekend has ever held for me was headaches, pain, exhaustion and bed before 10pm. After y 5 weeks of treatment my qualit of life has already improved. Thanks Paul If you want

to get a life - get a chiropractor Love Valerie Taylor

If sou are experiencing an

y

of these symptoms. call our office for an appointment

01793 814567 Mark Blokland and Associates (GCC Registered) Ridgeway Chiropractic Clinic www.rldgeway- health.cont Fairwater Stables, High Street. Wroughton

^4361

84005 "4„6

A4 661

peg„es Rtl

B4m4 o00 115

4

The Link Magazine • January 2005

A university campus at Coate will be a boost to Swindon Counsellor Barrie Thompson, Deputy Leader of the Labour Group on Swindon Council, says Swindon needs the University of Bath to set up a campus in the town and the best place is the Gateway site between the Great Western Hospital and Coate Water Country Park. spaces that ensure people living in the urban landscape have a decent environment within which to live.

This may mean that some of the brown field and town centre sites are used for that purpose, as for example, the Shaw Forest Country Park site to which the council recommitted itself last July.

We also need to ensure that the developers pay a heavy price and do not get away with fat profits at the expense of the people of Swindon. Anybody who like me had to suffer the keynote speaker, a developer, at the Mayor's dinner in June will know what I mean. Developers do not create communities, they produce a product for sale. It is we the people who create s communities.

Developers must be made to put back something substantial for the people of Swindon and its surrounding area. I do not accept the premise that if we demand too much the developers will not build in Swindon.

We have been reasonably suc-

t cessful in the past. Many of the town's leisure facilities, country parks and wildlife sanctuaries have come about by making those demands on developers. For the sake of our children and grandchildren we now need to take charge of

Swindon's future sustainability and a first class university is the key to that.

1 I would suggest that if we are unsuccessful in attracting the university to the Gateway site, by 2030 it will be covered in large measure by houses and the economy of

^'

SWINDON C

i the aensny or nousing provision Swindon will be in decline. within the urban envelope and we • A new town for Swindon?

See page 8. need to provide large public open

The Link Magazine

With 250 bikes on show

Published by Swindon Publications Ltd. Papermakers House. Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189

THE price is right ti

THE parking is free ^

e: publisher@swindonlink.com www.swindonlink.com

Parts, repairs, accessories, back up stock

li

'

• si '

I

Open: Mon to Sat 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

9

o WE AflE

_

., I

i

•

•

Publisher/Editor:

Roger Ogle

Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 872282

"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 North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

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

i

in England & Wales. No: 4513027. Registered office: 130 High Street, Hungedord, Barks. RG17 ODL. Printed by pep, Telford

The Link Magazine • January 2005 5

Coate development and Front Garden to be debated at public inquiry Charmian Spickernell from the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) outlines the big issues to be discussed when the Inquiry into the Swindon Local Plan to 2011 starts in January.

The stated aim in the Local Plan is 'to meet Swindon Borough's development needs while protecting the best of the Borough's built and natural environment.'

Only those who wrote in objections to certain policies and paragraphs in previous drafts of the plans have the right to continue their objections at the inquiry.

However, those who did not comment at earlier stages of the plan's drafting can ask those who did, such as CPRE and Friends of the Earth, to represent them and they can attend the inquiry.

It has been reported that 68 per cent of the people of Swindon are opposed to the Croft Road to Hay Lane link road (the so-called southThe Swindon Gateway site next to Coate Water outlined in white ern relief road parallel to the M4 instead of in the town centre, only through the Front Garden) and back into Swindon.

However, if the legal agreements appeared in the second draft of the have great concerns about traffic flows. Capacity will be exceeded for the Front Garden are signed Swindon Local Plan to 2011 - withat Croft Road and despite objec- before the inquiry takes place, the out any prior consultation.

This took many people by surtions, the alternative of a link road objectors' right to go before the across the railway line to Great Local Plan Inspector will be pre- prise and has led to many more Western Way near Blagrove (op- empted -just as the Government is objections to the draft Local Plan posite Tooth ill Park) has not been saying that it wants more commu- since Coate has long been regarded as a place of great beauty and tranexplored. This means tremendous nity involvement.

Coate Water is also on a knife quillity. The area is surrounded by pressure on Old Town and people living in the Front Garden having edge as the proposal to put the countryside with views out to to drive to Junction 16 to come main part of the university there, Liddington Hill and has SSSI sta-

tus which marks it out as an extra special area for wildlife and nature conservation. No wonder it is Swindon's favourite place.

Coate's future will be considered towards the end of the Inquiry, probably in March or April, to give time for the Inspector's Report on the Examination in Public (EIP) of the Structure Plan to 2016 to be received, given the strategic implications of building 1,800 more houses next to the proposed university campus.

This will be before the Structure Plan to 2016 is finalised because there is still another round of consultation on that before it is adopted by Wiltshire County Council and Swindon Borough Council.

So it is important to continue with the battle to protect the area.

The cry to protect the best of Swindon's environment and to renew the town centre first before more out of town development is getting stronger by the day.

For details, Charmian can be contacted at: cspickernell@aol.com The Front Garden Action Group can be contacted at 487154. www.savecoate.org.uk

ImII its)'d ( MARLBOROUGH) HOUSE FURNISHERS

Si

"

..,

-

'uteu ^sefore

Christmas

__

NOW

Bargains in every department * All furnishing fabrics at least 20% off.

Many half price * All fabric remnants half price * All furniture, beds, chairs, settees at least 20% off All Afghan and Persian rugs at least 25% off.

Open Bank Holiday Monday 3 - 01 - 05 14 - 16 The Parade, Marlborough, Wilts 01672 513491 Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm. Closed Saturday & Sunday

F Wiltshire's Leading Window, Door & Conservatory Installer!

• A wide choice of finishes available Brilliant White PVC, luxurious Mahogany, rich Golden Oak and warm Rosewood or a combination of these finishes • 10 year Insurance Backed Guarantee One DOD player per windows if/or door order; minimum order value £500.

One 0-Box per conservatory order. Gi ft on completion of installation.

Offer ends 24.12.04

windows • doors conservatories

Visit our showroom: OPEN Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm Sat 8am -12 Noon Unit 7, Great Western Trade Park, Great Western Way, Swindon SN2 2DJ fax: 01793 495195 www.kingfisher-conservatories.co.uk

FENSA

fr

6

The Link Magazine • January 2005

Council tax 2005. What do you want to pay?

Swindon's council tax rise next April could be 3 per cent as proposed by the Conservative administration, based on efficiency savings, reductions in staffing levels and cuts to voluntary organisations, or 19.2 per cent if these measures are not i mplemented.

But before Swindon Council • a reduction in the cultural and Once again central Government the town receives 12 per cent less makes a final decision it will be arts programme run by Swindon appears to have dealt a bad deal on than the average which represents asking citizens to comment on how Artscape; Swindon. Although its contribu- £376 per pupil per year less in much they want to pay.

• £252,000 reduction in grants to tion has gone up by 5.6 per cent, 2004/5. We also receive 23 percent Three per cent represents an voluntary organisations; the national average increase is 6.4 below the average for youth servaverage increase of £28 per year per cent and significantly less than ices and 1 per cent below average • reorganisation of management for a band D property. neighbouring authorities like Wilt- for social services.

Proposed efficiency measures to at STEAM; shire County Council and South "I hope that Swindon people will redirect £10 million to Social Serv- • restricting funding for emer- Gloucestershire which both re- contribute to the debate about the ices(anextra£4.6million)andEdu- gency care for older people and ceived 9.4 per cent of extra cash. level of council tax that should be cation (extra £5 million) would disabled; Milton Keynes gets over 11 per paid for local services." come from: The final budget decision rests • cutting the subsidy to the Wilt- cent more.

• shedding 123 jobs, by voluntary shire Festival; Councillor Nick Martin, cabinet with the full council meeting on 10 and compulsory redundancies and • charging more for burials and lead member for finance, said February. scrapping 53 currently vacant posts councillors on his Budget Task From early January council tax cremations.

- some already underway; Group and officers had taken a payers can express their view on I A well publicised £30,000 grant prudent approach in predicting the the level of tax increase that should cut to HomeStart was not supposed Central Government settlement to take place: to have been proposed. Jan arrive at the proposed council tax Aylward, manager of the charity increase, but it was very frustrat- • at www.swindon.gov.uk; which places trained volunteers ing that Swindon continues to get • by filling in a questionnaire at with parents struggling to cope less than other authorities. "Over the Civic Offices in Euclid Street; with under 5s, said, "I was com- the last ten years Central Govern- • by attending public meetings pletely shocked to be told that ment support for local government chaired by the Leader of the Counfunding was to be cut when we has fallen from 75 per cent to 66 cil on 4 and 10 January, 6pm to had only just signed a service per cent, whilst expecting local au- 7pm, in the Council Chamber at agreement with the social services thorities to take on more services, the Civic Offices; department. like licensing, and work to higher • by writing to the Leader of the "When a council officer called to standards of service delivery. This Council at the Civic Offices, Euexplain it was a mistake, my relief year alone the council is faced with clid Street, Swindon. turned to anger when I had to tell £18 million of new spending presLocal people will also be surhim where to find the error on the sures.

Call our Swindon office tel/fax: veyed through the 'Swindon Peocouncil's web site.

"We have long complained that ple's Voice' group and in-depth 01793 704 089 "You cannot believe the stress Swindon doesn't get a fair share of info@villas-in-spain.biz views will be gathered at a workthis put us under." www.vitlas-in-spain.biz the Government pot - a pupil in shop in January.

G wekOWe 4Di4n

e

Studio flats available to rent for over 65s at two Swindon schemes.

For further details and to arrange a viewing, contact the regional office on 01672 515622 or email marlboroughinfo@jbha.co.uk .

Please quote reference braiwin/oct04.

One and two bedroom lifestyle retirement apartments now available for sale. Located off Junction 6a Thamesdown Drive

Priory Manor, Chastleton Road, Red house, Swindon Show apartment open Tuesday to Saturday, lOam to 5pm

James Butcher Housing Association Providing accommodation throughout the central and south of England.

A charity, incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society No. 16602 R.

^ ' ^r^ • i^

01793 723750 For details of all our apartments visit

www.bovishomes.co.uk

HOMES Retirement Living

If you are lookingfor a large selection of...

• LOUNGE, DINING & BEDROOM

FURNITURE in a variety of wood

!

!

colours and finishes

I BEDS, MATTRESSES

AND

---

HEADBOARDS in all sizes

• 3 PIECE SUITES

in a wide choice of fabrics and styles " FIRESIDE CHAIRS & RECLINERS probably Swindon's largest choice on show

you must be lookingfor

^

• t

FURNITURE www.manorfurniture.Co.uk

TEL:. 13444 • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • LARGE SHOWROOM Im! AMPLE FREE PARKING FREE DELIVERY OVER A WIDE AREA YELLOW

LxJ

PAGES'`

AKERS WAY

From Great Western Way follow

Cheney Chen

Manor

IndEntate en

WE

Gj^ESZ^PNNPR

signs for

r

Cheney

HERE

Industrial D PRESS

Estate

Oasis AT WESTERN WAY

Manor

/^('^^ M4

^^

Sa i nsbury

Bridgemead

Rodeourne

The Link Magazine • January 2005

Swindon elevated from weak' to poor'

Curtains & Pelm • Curtains are hand-stitched

Good status promised for 2006

at sides and hems.

Swindon Council is getting better according to Government inspectors - but not fast enough. ° City & Guilds qualified In the Audit Commission's an- but child protection is still an • Goblets / triple pleat nualComprehensivePerformance area of concern. The benefits headings, hand made Assessment (CPA) of how the service is still poor and the 'Swags & tails, tailor made council is run and how main serv- council needs to tackle this urices perform, the authority is up- gently.

Tie-backs • Roman blinds graded from the lowest rating of The education services, Pelmets • Valances poor to weak. which is run by a private com• Free home visiting service A year ago Swindon was one of pany in partnership with the I '100% cotton sateen lining the worst 15 councils in England; council, receive a good gradTracking & pelmets installed now only one in England is left in ing by the inspectors, as do the the poor category. libraries and leisure services Call Pat on Services for elderly, mentally and the way the council uses 01793 695862 or 07760 197510 infirm people and care services for resources. pat@curtainandpelmets.c o.uk people at home have improved, The inspectors graded provision of social care for adults Simon Birch and council leaderMike Bawden as average but social care for children has become worse. The end of Year 1 in our recovery plan. environment is seen as average.

"Swindon Council still has many A year ago council leader Mike problems to tackle and challenges Bawden said he expected consid- to be dealt with, but our target for erable change during 2004. In De- December 2005 is to achieve the London trained mobile hair stylist cember he declared he was de- 'fair' category, and to be rated lighted that Swindon Council had 'good' at the end of 2006."

For a visit call Sue on 07796 432 700 Council chief executive Simon climbed out of the poor category. or email sue@thecuttingclub.com ' "Some people might not consider Birch agreed there is still a long this an achievement but we have way to go. "The CPA confirms that made progress from a very poor we are on the road to recovery. We assessment. need to speed up the pace at which our superb showrooms in "The management of the coun- we are improving and will be doindon - finest in the area cil is being completely reorgan- ing this throughout the next year. ised and we are striving for greater See the full assessment report at www.audit-commission.gov.uk and more rapid change. This is the

rAecwt

9c ry.

IPLAN

MANUFACTURERS, RETAILERS & INSTALLERS OF FINE HANDMADE KITCHENS

Open:

FGR1,1N111,DCE

RETAIL PARR

Mon-Fri loam-5.30pm Saturday & Bank Holidays

RAKESWAM •

10.30am-4.30pm

Sunday Ilam-3pm RUGBY CLUB N

Swindons award winning kitchen ro rn/ aoy.

Manor- Cabine s: A Sunday Tinges/Virgin" Atlantir /a.s1G"ack 100 (.ompanv

Tel: (01793) 423478 Manor Cabinets Plc Kelvin Road, Greenbridge Industrial Estate, Swindon SN3 3JW Also branches at Basingstoke, Farnham, Henley, Reading, Thatcham, Wimborne, Windlesham and Wokingham ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, INTERIOR DESIGNERSALL TRADE ENQUIRIES WELCOME

a ^^ _.

s,cc

i Hf O^M.B:DFOOM.

A,50eITiv11

Setting the Standards

Growing ever bigger and

bigger er

Swindon area could be allocated more houses than Western & Northern expansion combined How could Swindon and the surrounding area cope with another 24,000 houses - in addition to the Northern development, Front Garden and Coate Water?

The South West Regional Assembly (SWRA) is looking at the town as a 'sustainable area for future growth' up to 2026 and planners at Swindon and Wiltshire County Councils are jointly studying how many houses could be built and are gathering the views of the public until 18 February 2005.

The study area covers all of Swindon Borough plus parts of Cotswold, Kennet, North Wiltshire and Vale of White Horse Districts.

Changes to the planning system require the SWRA to review planning guidance for the whole of the South West up to 2026 and to produce this Regional Spatial Strategy. This will play a key role in guiding future development of Swindon and the surrounding towns and villages.

An important part of the Spatial Strategy is the identification of subregions, considered to be the most sustainable locations to accommodate future growth. Because of its location, good transport links and

traditionally buoyant economy Swindon has been identified as one of these sub-regions.

The proposed 24,000 houses are extra to the last 1,350 houses to be built as part of the Swindon and Wiltshire Structure Plan to 2016.

Where could all those houses go, as well as employment and commercial areas, open space and places for leisure and recreation?

These are some of the venues where you can find out: Town Hall, Cricklade Tuesday 4 January, 2.30 - 7.30pm; Memorial Hall, Wootton Bassett Tuesday 11 January. 2.30 - 7.30pm; Brunel Centre, Swindon

Thursday 13 January, 9.30 am - 5pm; Community Centre, Coleview Wednesday 19 January, 4.30-7.30pm; Bowls Pavilion, Purton

Tuesday 25 January, 2 - 8pm; Ellendune Centre, Wroughton Wednesday 26 January, 2.30 - 7.30pm; Primary School, Chiseldon

Thursday 27 January, 3 - 8pm; Parish Council Offices. Haydon Wick Tuesday 1 February, 3.30 - 7.30pm; For details, contact Mark Newey on 466031 or mail: structureplan @swindon.gov.uk

The Grange PRIORY VALE

J7

J8

Visitor Centre

J6a

J6

Orbital The Grange & The Nurseries Shopping Centre _ryVale

J9

C 0 0

v

0 E

S H J1O

The wonderful four bedroom Tilham showhome is now open at the heart of the Sales & Information Centre at The Grange.

Off )unction 7, Haydon End, Priory Vale, North Swindon.

www.bloorhomes.com

ezcE`e^a

J5

10 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Crime & disorder debate for West area forum Restrictions on rampaging youth and more pro-active community policing seem to be having a positive effect in West and North Swindon according the Swindon Police and Swindon Council's crime and disorder department. But what do you think? There is a chance to express your viewpoint to local councillors at the next West Swindon Area Forum on 10 January.

Using new powers under anti-so- four Co-ordinator, the consequences more constructive activities for cial behaviour legislation intro- will be attending the of anti-social be- young people. Youth workers are 1 ducedin2003,thepolicehavebeen meeting to explain haviour." playing a valuable role in this in able to impose a dispersal order on how the legislation He added that he West Swindon." a defined geographical area to limit has been applied _ hoped that five To report anti social activity, call the number of people congregat- and what has been more PCSOs would the Council's Crime and Disorder ing if they are seen to be causing learnt. join the West! Unit's hotline, 466738. intimidation, harassment or alarm Inspector GlasNorth sector in the Serious incidents should be reto the public. And under 16s can gow, right, said the L next year. ported to the police on 528111. In be escorted home. Further misbe- police were reCheri Wright emergencies call 999. haviour can result in arrest and sponding better to said dispersal or- • The West Swindon Area Forum punishment by fine or even im- community prob-'' ders were proving is a public meeting and takes place prisonment. lems following a re useful, though each on Monday 10 January, 7.30pm, Over the last eight months dis- organisation of the has to be evaluated in the Link Centre Community persal orders have been used to shift system last September and to see if there is a drop in reported Suite. restrict people gathering at the the use of anti-social legislation. crime, or if the orders just shift the West Swindon Centre and Shaw "The five police sectors covering young people from places like vilChristmas support Ridge Leisure Park, Freshbrook the town have been reduced to lage centres to nearby housing ar- Old Shaw Lane was full of people and Toothill Village Centres, and three and the beat officers in each eas, thereby disturbing residents. onl2DecemberenjoyingaChristalso in Pinehurst, Moredon and team are working together in a "There is evidence that the first mas market with carol singing. p Greenmeadow. m ore integrated way, the asorder made, covering of Over £700 was raised for g y^ g a part Anti-social behaviour orders sistance of the new Police Corn- Stratton during the first half of ActionAid. under the Crime and Disorder Act munity Support Officers (PCSO). 2003, has helped to reduce the Joint organiser Lesley Dredge 1998, have also been used against "This means that intelligence is number of incidents reported, but said, "we were all amazed that the individuals to restrict where they being gathered and shared more it is too early to assess the success evening would attract so many can go and who they can associate effectively so that we can deal more of the first West Swindon order." people. with, on pain of arrest, fine and quickly with neighbour disputes, However, she believes legislaThan you imprisonment for breaking the and kids in the streets, and bear tion should be only one means of to all who terms laid down. Currently there down on persistent criminals and addressing problems. "The local supported are 14 in effect across Swindon, the drug dealers, police and community support of- ActionAid" most recent imposed on Leon Mor"We're also working better with ficers are active in establishing reris from Freshbrook. other agencies such as the housing lationships with disaffected Organiser Swindon Police Inspector Willie department so that dealers get youngsters. It is importance for us Carol Staples Glasgow and Cheri Wright, Swin- evicted, and also with schools to to understand why these gather- serving don Council's Anti-Social Behav- get over a consistent message about ings develop and try to provide mulled wine

1* ie P

Re-opens Monday 3rd January 05

PY ( 5

o

In order for FIRES & FIREPLACES to bring you the very best in STYLE. QUALITY and VALUE for 2005 we need to sell off some of our display models.

,

This gives you the perfect opportunity to have a high quality fireplace at a rock bottom price.

Units 21-22 Whitehill Industrial Park, Whitehill Lane Wootton Bassett, Swindon, Wiltshire.

i

44

!

The Link Magazine • January 2005 11

Reorganising West Swindon schools - vision of the future or a disaster in the making?

Radical plans to reduce the number of primary school places in West Swindon are going to have a major effect on parts of the area. Two or three schools could close to finance the redevelopment of other school sites to include broad ranging community education, care, health and youth provision.

Currently there are 2,800 chil- School attended November's Area dren attending the nine primary Forum worried that their school schools in the area, but there are was targeted to fold into 3,254 places. By 2009, Swindon's Freshbrook School. education department calculates Other rumours have suggested there could be up to 800 empty Salt Way School will amalgamate places, with some schools being with Shaw Ridge. There have been up to 45 per cent empty. ideas that Toothill School could Rumours and uncertainty have combine with Oliver Tomkins been circulating since the Decem- Church of England School with a ber Link reported November's new building on the Toothill site.

West Swindon Area Forum where However, if the Bristol Diocese will Swindon Council cabinet lead not agree to the proposal, perhaps member for education coun Garry Westlea could close and fold into Perkins said there was a need to Toothill. remove costly surplus places People living near school sites across the town, and to broaden will also be concerned about what the use of schools as centres for the could happen, especially those whole community. who back on to those nice green Coun Perkins explained that fi elds. Those which close will ingovernment wants councils to uti- evitably be redeveloped for houslise school facilities for out of school ing, raising questions about access education and care. He also said and extra traffic flow.

Property developers will be very the Children Act which comes into force this year will require coun- interested in the sites at Windmill cils to create integrated services Hill, Oliver Tomkins, Salt Way and and facilities for children, fami li es especially Shaw Ridge and the and other residents by developing adjacent never-used site for a facilities such as GP surgeries, Catholic primary school, which health and leisure facilities, access could accommodate some very uppoints to ICT and council services market executive dwellings. alongside new schools.

The discussion by the EducaHowever all nine West Swin- tion Partnership Board on 17 Janudon primary schools have estab- ary followed by decisions at Swinlished strong relationships with the don Council's cabinet will have a people who live around them, par- profound effect on West Swindon. ticularly the families who use them.

The prize of all-encompassing For example, Westlea School with multi-agency education centres its adjacent social halls define the creates exciting community develcommunity they serve. opment opportunities. But there Closing any school poses prob- will be losers in the process. lems for the council. To redirect Therefore it is very important investment for the future good, for everybody to be aware of the some communities could be dam- imminent changes in the education and physical landscape of aged.

Parents from Windmill Hill West Swindon.

• British Sign Language & Deaf Awareness

courses running throughout the year.

Communication & Translation Services.

'Media Production Services.

•

Tel: 01793 690 713 or 01793 690 715 %

ngu^^,RE G !SER^FIR I www.s gnl ng. ual co uk

12 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Surgery puts nurses in the first line of call /1.4fRf' BEAoTySALON Lt^`

A complaint often heard about trying to make a doctor's appointment is that you have to go through a receptionist who can seem like a gatekeeper to the service. And sometimes doctors complain that they are The Neighbourhood Centre dealing with minor complaints when their time could be spent on more serious problems St Andrews Ridge, Swindon The Ridge Green Clinic at Shaw Tel: (01793) 727245 "A doctor is always available at .. ,''_ `y^i Village Centre has been running a ; clinic times and can be called upon Open: Mon: 9 - 5; Tues & Thurs: 9 - 8; triage system which is used by only ^" to pick up problems or more comWed: 9-5.30; Fri: 9-6; Sat: 9-3 a few other practices in Swindon.

- ' -plex needs."

We specialise in colours, Qualified nurses take all calls, disColleague Penney McDonough restyles and permanent waves cuss symptoms with patients and said that although Triage had been and also have a full range of book them into a daily nurse led _' in use at Ridge Green for 18 beauty treatments It 'I minor ailments clinic or makes an months, it was still relatively new I— 10% DISCOUNT appointment with a GP. 1 ' . and was constantly being reon all appointment Penney McDonough and Sue Cole Nurse Sue Cole explained that viewed. "It takes a bit of getting in January using triage within a GP surgery sure if a patient wanted to see a GP used to but most patients have got on production had ensured the best use of skills or nurse quickly and there was no used to the way it works; some _ of this voucher) and resources. "In the past the re- convenient appointment available, now call for advice rather than ask L cep ti onist would be under pres"Now at least one nurse is ava il - for an appointment. able every morning and afternoon "The system tr ies to ensure that to talk to patients and make a the patient is seen by the most judgement about their symptoms. appropriate person for their reSometimes our advice means the quirements and the resources are patient does not have to come to used in the best way. the surgery or we'll ask them to • New patients are welcome at come to our daily clinic, or book Ridge Green Surgery. Call 874894 to arrange an initial appointment. them in to see the doctor.

New on the case

Wishing all our patients a Happy and Healthy New Year BUT, IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: O Backache, Leg pain 0 Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain O Headache & Migraine 0 Sciatica O Arthritis O Sports Injury 0 Whiplash

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR at:

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. CLARE DUNCAN-HAWES MSc. D.C.

Tel: (01793) 887801 Free new patient consultation* Free Chirocheck always available Members of BCA • Registered with GCC • Members of the College of Chiropractors *Presentation of this advert will entitle you to a free new patient consultation which will include othopaedic and neurological testing together wil a confidential report of findings (Treatment will incur a fee. Offer excludes insurance claims)

Clare Duncan-Hawes has joined the team at Shaw Chiropractic Clinic.

A graduate of the If Chiropractic uses maAnglo-European Co ll ege ' ` if) nipulation on joints of the ;.fie spineandlimbstorestore of Chiropractic, she has been building experience function and decrease in a number of locum po• pain. Many conditions ? sitions in country and such as back and neck pain, sciatica, whiplash, town based clinics, Clare has developed a headache, arm and leg special interest in treating pain can be treated children, older people and sports Massage and soft tissue techinjuries. She is currently develop- niques are used to relax and baling her skills in sacro-occipital and ance tight muscles associated with cranial techniques. these conditions.

` Me' time for new mums A six week postnatal course for new mums run by the National Childbirth Trust starts on Monday 10 January, 10am, at Toothill Church. The sessions will consist of one hour of postnatal exercise followed by an hour of discussion over refreshments.

NCT tutor Ruth Barrett says the course is an ideal opportunity for new mums to get out of the house and meet others in similar circumstances, to make new friends and to have some 'me' time.

For enrolment details call the NCT Swindon Branch on 07005 801635 and ask for 'postnatal course.'

To do the exercises mothers should have had their 6 week check-up.

Toothill Pharmacy 01793 539701

From your Doctor to your Door Let us arrange COLLECTION AND DELIVERY of your repeat prescription FREE OF CHARGE from ANY SURGERY IN SWINDON. Ring or visit Toothill Pharmacy or ring the number below and we will do the rest.

01793 43 4000

Swindon Pharmacies Ltd Taoll - O+J Town Vark Cana

The Link Magazine • January 2005 13

HOMEOPATHY

The local specialist

it

Pippa Nicholas MARH

- um Mobility

E Hah

,

Homeopathy

A medicine that promotes recovery from illness and well being by supporting and strengthening the immune system.

An effective treatment for all ages, and a wide range of health issues

t

Allergy Testing

OSTEOPATHY

•

150 foods and airborne irritants tested with instant results.

No needles, no blood tests

Farideh Colthart D.O. Registered Osteopath David Davies D.O. Registered Osteopath Cricklade Road Practice

•

Rise/recline chairs Proper se ice Home visits Sho„ room & test area at •

rv

4 High Street, Purton Tel: 01793 772883

(Established 20 years) 530 Cricklade Road, Swindon

Pinkney Park, Sherston

Malmesbury

y

01666-840060

Registered with the Societ of Homeopaths

Tel: 01793 722913

LOSE WEIGHT! Freedom

Ridge Green I

M e d

A new, exciting opportunity

C e n ( r c

Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: (01793) 87 894 4

Dr D Nowotzin, Dr A Dwivedi, Dr A Hoffineyer and all the sta like to wish all our patients a very

NEW

ff

would

YE!

r

Su gery Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am-12.30pm; 2pm-5.30pnt Closed Thursday pm E-mail: enquiries@gp-j83064.nhs.uk www.ridgegreen.com

Wheelchairs — all types Scooters — all types New & Used

„ Anfaad 0

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Weight Management Classes

Managing your Weight is important to your well-being and knowing this you may have already tried dieting and attended "ordinary" diet clubs.

You may have lost some weight or none at all, and put it all back on again.

You feel a failure, but don't despair: Freedom is different, very different!

Led by a behavioural therapist, at our classes we help you change the way you think and feel about yourself, empowering ,S you, helping you to naturally change your behaviour and eating habits allowing you to change your life and achieve your goals! n For further information:

Tel: (01793) 873451 www.ahassociates.org e-mail: enquiries@ahassociates.org

You owe it to yourself to find Freedom in your life!

SPINAL HEALTH CHECKS Taw Hill Village Centre, Aiken Road Swindon SN25 1UH Reception open: Monday to Friday 8am to 6.30prn Tel: 01793 709500 • Fax: 01793 723875 E-mail: enquiries@tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk www.tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk

New patients

always

welcome

COOPER CHEMIST Alan Swum C*MW L Tint 672M

Also at Coopers: fine fragr ces, toiletries, ear piercing, allergy testing d now stocking Herba Tint permanent natural hair dyes an

an

Pielures like works

^{'

an

Film processing for 35mm & APS (Free 35mm film for eve ry 35mm roll developed on premises)

In store duplicates and enlargements

Ooen 7 da y s a week. Mon - Fri 9am - 8om; Sat gam - 6pm; Sun 1 Oam - 3pm

"I have scoliosis and have suffered all my life (almost 60 years), with constant migraine and periods of immobility.

Dr Paul Marshall has improved any condition immensely and I am enjoying a better quality of life."A.C. The Chiropractic Health Centre The Link Centre Whitehill Wa y , Swindon To make an appointment: Tel: 01793 - 327643

.t'

Are you experiencing any of the following warning signals?

• Headaches/migraines • Whiplash • Poor posture • Sciatica • Scoliosis

• Back and neck pain • Trouble sleeping • Low energy levels • Overwhelmed by stress

• Numbness in arms and legs Do something about it!!

Offer available until 21 January 2005

14 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Bradon to get popular schools cash

Nearly 25 years old and in need of £56k

Bradon Forest School has been awarded £1.25 million so that new Two issues will focus the attention of everybody involved with buildings can allow it to increase intake to a permanent 9 form entry. Oliver Tomkins Church of England Junior School during 2005.

The money awarded under the Headteacher Len Spiers said government's new Popular and Bradon Forest met all criteria to be Successful Schools Initiative was awarded the Popular and Successsecured after scrutiny of a bid to ful Schools grant in terms of test the Department for Education and and examination results, value Skills, including site visits by DfES added indicators and the number architects, of applications for places. "The The success should enhance pressure on places and the differBradon's application to become a ing size of year groups made this Specialist Arts School, which will scheme a natural vehicle to balattract further funding, including ance our intake and further im£150,000 of capital funding. prove school planning."

Bradon will take a form entry - 250 children in 2006 - and will continue ;. to take the increased Big impn , , cmeats at Oliver To)). ., .. , .......her Elizabeth Wood, centre, number in subsequent with Peter Shuring and some of his class and teaching assistant Ros Holland years.

Plans are coming together to celTeacher Peter Shuring was given Wellknown authorAlan Gib- ebrate a quarter of a century since first choice of classroom as he had bons visited Bradon Forest opening, and also the need to raise spent his entire five year career School on 13 December to £56,000 to repay a loan for a new working in temporary classrooms. work with gifted and talented four classroom block which He said, "the new block is fantaschildren from all year groups. opened in December. As a Church tic. The children love being in their He engaged in lively discus- of England School the governors classroom and take so much pride sion on how he comes up with are responsible for ten per cent of in it. It's also great to be able to use plot lines for his punchy, so- building costs. an electronic white board."

Headteacher Elizabeth Wood cially relevant books like There will be several fund raisShadow of the Minotaur and said everybody was delighted to ing events during 2005, with a big see the last of the mobile buildings push in June when a special event The Defender.

Alan is pictured with Bradon which have been in use for about is planned to mark the 25th anniYear 8 to 11 students, from 20 years." The new classrooms are versary. Ex-pupils who would like left, Alice Chalk, Abbi Davey, lovely, bright and energy efficient to contribute to the fundraising Torn Martin, Parri which means a big reduction in target or help organise events Shahrokni, Esther Surrender heating costs." should call Mrs Wood on 872100.

The Link Magazine • January 2005 15

School moves forward with confidence

OF

Freshbrook School has been given the all-clear by school inspectors and is no longer in special measures.

GORSE has contributed to making FreshHer Majesty's Inspectors (HMI) the situation, HILL Poor school leadership and man- brook School a much more capamade a fourth visit in late Novem1 979 2004 ber to consider the progress made agement, inadequate support for ble organisation, driven by highly since the school failed an Ofsted teachers to reach higher standards motivated people who aim for the SPECIALISTS IN WEDDING HIRE inspection in May 2003 and pro- and an absence of supervision by highest quality of teaching and SENIOR SCHOOL UNIFORM nounced they were satisfied with the then failing Education depart- learning.

KING SIZE MENSWEAR ment at Swindon Council before "HMI particularly noted the the achievements.

AND IN-HOUSE ALTERATION/ The HMI assessment will be he arrived, all contributed to the positive relationships between TAILORING DEPARTMENT children and staff and commented published in January, but situation. headteacher Steven Luke said he With a lot of hard work, input on the good behaviour and atti124 Cricklade Road was relieved to announce to The from Swindon Council and targets tudes of children. Given an inGorse Hill, Swindon Link that his school was not in spe- set by HMI, Mr Luke and his teach- creased number of children with J Tel: 642211 cial measures. ers have turned the school around, special needs and statements, the Open: 9arn - 5.30pm The Link exclusively reported in "I'm particularly pleased for the inspectors praised the inclusive Wed & Sat 9am - 5pm November2003 thatOfstedinspec- parents who have stuck with us," atmosphere of the school."

Free car park tors had failed Freshbrook six he said, "It has been a difficult months earlier, information had time for them because they were not been released to the media. under the impression that the Mr Luke took up his position in school was better than it was. We January 2003 and immediately dis- appreciate their support."

"We have had many changes in covered for himself that the school was unlikely to achieve the level of the teaching body and the teachIo I I I o 1 a n e d U competence required by Ofsted ing assistants have had to cope Whatever your child wants to achieve in life, and advised his governing body of with great upheaval. Everybody solid nound Wi in and Freshbrook School has received a grant from the Nezo Fund to run iss esse ntial. With With the year-round Kumon

cat

a two year programme to boost IT skills in association with Greendown School.

Greendown teacher Denis Denley runs a weekly Robolab class teaching control technology using computers to programme motorised Lego models. Mr Denley, left, with Steven Luke and Roholab children

life

programmes, children develop confidence, discipline and study skills that last them a lifetime.

Kumon West Swindon Centre Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Call Richard Bell on 01285 711170 Centre open 4.00pm to 6.00pm Mondays and Thursdays Per almost 50 years, children around the world have benefited from studying the Kumon maths and language programmes. 45,000 children of all ages and abilities are currents y^ enrolled at study centres throughout the UK.

On the move in Taw Hill Staff at St Francis Church of England School in Taw Hill packed up and vacated the temporary buildings they have used since September, ready to reopen in their permanent home at the village centre on 4 January.

A start on building work _ was delayed by a late decision to remove a church from the design in 2003.

But this worked to the school's advantage according to headteacher Clive Westall.

"It wasn't ideal to start in I mobiles but the experience presented positive learning opportunities and help us create a strong school community from the outset." err=Children and parents were F able to enjoy the school in December for a quiz night and for three nativity plays.

Clive Westall and adminstrator Sandra Collis receive help to move items to the new buildings

16 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Tumble Tots. We build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Good Ofsted 1 Freshbrook Playgroup has been adjudged by Ofsted to provide both good quality care for children and nursery education.

Tumble Tots is Britain's leading national active play programme, established for 25 years. Our structured play is specially designed to build your child's self-condence and self-esteem through: 3 Developing physical skills of ability, balance Et co-ordination

3 Developing language with action songs and rhymes

3 Classes for walking to 5 years -' –

SKILLS FOR LIFE

-

A unique programme for children from crawling to walking giving them a chance —prom6 .ter sr^w , to develop skills in a playful atmosphere 7

For details of classes call Sue Dobson on 01235 868119 The essential activity for children

•

MEQRH nU CU UL day nursery

A purpose-built nursery on the edge of Wootton Bassett Near M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon

â For children 3 months to five years â Open all year from 8am to 6pm

1 ..

â Extensive outdoor play and garden â Grant places available For information telephone:

rrl ` =_

01

793 851495

www. theda ynursery. corn Brinkworth Road. Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

Individual Care

Individual Learning

nursery and pe-prepchouI

MEADOWPARK Pre-Prep School

4 - 7 years

Playgroup staff and _; ldren, back from left, Sally Hannan, chair Clair' Grassi, Stacy Golding, Jayne Wells, Fiona Wood. Front, Sarah Gunter, Mandy Steele, Linda Jacobs

The group which is based in Freshbrook Community Centre is well organised with a good staff to child ratio and there are a good range of resources to support children's learning.

The inspector states that children make generally good progress towards the early learning goals in personal, social and emotional development and physical development.

Teaching is considered good and staff have a generally good understanding of the early learning goals.

Leadership and management of the playgroup is generally good.

The partnership with parents, the children's personal, social and emotional development, and staff

Nursery School 2 - 4 years

Into books Youngsters attending Meadowpark Nursery and Pre-Prep School dressed up as their favourite character during the annual book week in late November.

Headteacher Rajvinder

Baby Nursery

0 - 2 years Prior Park Prep School 7 - 13 years Holiday School

Kular said,

Flexible fees From £2.50 per hour Nursery Grant Open 7.50am-6pm

^? i

"the pupils had great fun showing off as their favourite character.

"They showed

Meadowpark School

amazing individuality there were as many different

Meadowpark

A Meadowpark is a well established thriving

Nursery u Y and

school with faultless DfEE and OFSTED

characters as

reports across the 0-7 years age range

there were pupils. And the teachers were just as varied."

Pre-Prep School Calcutt Street Cricklade Swindon SN6 688

Tel: 01 793 752600

relationships with the children are seen as very good.

Co-supervisor Stacey Goulding said, "we're all very pleased with the report. There have been many staff changes since the last Ofsted inspection four years ago and everybody has worked really hard to achieve a good inspection."

Chairwoman Claire Grossi said the playgroup is managed by parent volunteers who had worked hard with the staff to sustain and develop good relationships between staff and parents. "We were very pleased that this team effort has been recognised as an important part of the playgroup."

The group has places for September. For details call 879178.

A Conveniently located for Swindon and

the surrounding area in a pleasant rural environment in the grounds of Prior Park Prep School A Come and see why past and present parents believe we are unique A Registrations being accepted for 2005/06

Meadoa park youngsters with Tim Hollis and Head of PrePrep Sylvia Bird

The Link Magazine • January 2005 17

Good Ofsted 2 An Ofsted inspection of Headstarts Nursery at the Delta Business Park in Westlea has recognised the high quality of nursery education being provided for children aged 3 and 4 years.

The report notes that children standards. The partnership with make very good progress towards parents is also regarded as very the early learning goals and teach- good. ing is very good. The staff work The report comments that good well with children and have a clear progress has been made since the knowledge and understanding of last inspection. the early learning goals. The staff Headstarts manager Alison are also supportive and caring, Barrett said she was delighted that providing positive role-models for the hard work of her staff had been the children, promoting good be- recognised. "The report endorses haviour and offering encourage- our commitment to high quality of care and the teaching we provide ment.

The leadership and management for 3 and 4 year olds." of the nursery is assessed as being Headstarts can be found on very good, based on good team Welton Road at Delta. To make a work and a desire to improve visit, call Alison on 877779.

Alison Barrett, right, with some of the children in the Headstart nursery and her staff, from left, Gemnia Tutt, Donna Rubt/, Paula Archer, Shelley Lear

[ Headstarts Da Nursery School i •

Established 1990 0o Delta Business Park, Westlea, West Swindon Ileadstarts is a friendly, 'family" nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where ever y child benefits from individual attention.

Conveniently located within a few minutes drive from M4 Junction 16, Town Centre, Westlea and Abbey Meads.

q Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year q Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds -am. pm , school day, all day. SPECIAL OFFER q Real value for money. From £130 per week full time FREE child care' q Funded child -care credits available.`" worth £50 q Government Funded Nursery Sessions' Claim up to £38 worth of Nursery Credits per child with this per week - now available for all 3 year olds advert*

For further information or to arrange a visit, _ Conditions apply "Rates may varY call Alison on 877779. _

L please

Happy Bunnies Childcare in the North Swindon area v Children 3 - 12 years v Open 8am to 6pm v Prices from £3.00 per hour l s Ofsted registered and fully qualified staff Free language tuition, outings, dramatic arts and fitness classes School drop offs and pick ups (from your own home if required) Organic food and drinks UK's independent provider of exclusive high quality childcare and education.

Happy Children & Happ y Parents are always found at Happy Bunnies!

For an informal discussion, please contact branch manager, Maria Taylor on 01793 704089. email: jayt09l2@aol.com

Good Ofsted 3 Link and Learn Playgroup at the Link Centre had an exceptional Ofsted report in November, being adjudged to provide good care for children and very good achievement in all six early learning goals.

The staff have good relationships wonderful." with children and they are good The group has a few places availrole models. They provide stimu- able before September. For details lating activities and the group pro- call 465464. vide a wide range of equipment and resources.

The inspector reports that teaching is ver\ good and children make good progress in all areas of learning.

They are confident, independent, well motivated and enthusiastic to learn.

Supervisor Gilly Betts said she and her colleagues were thrilled with the report.

"Our advisor says that Ofsted praise is not given lightly, so to find that we are achieving very good in the six early learning goals is Gilly Betts, centre, and colleagues Ann Hicks, left, and Annalisa Amoroso

tl

18 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Panto performers congratulate pre-school stars Children's Information Service A one-stop shop for FREE information f 1FORM4 T.O

S V

n SWINDON

m

Why not pop in and see us?

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

Jo Jingles I"7 Music Singing I"1 I SI ^I Movement * ^I with leading children's group for children aged 6m-walking, walking-2y, 2-3y & 3-5 years North Swindon (Abbey Meads) Tuesday am & Friday pm

n

v

l

West Swindon (Peatmoor) Wednesday am & Friday am

A fairy, a baddie and a pet cow popped into Westlea playgroup before Christmas to congratulate the staff and parents on how well it is run and to award them a certificate.

Julie tte Kaplan and Paul Bradley, the stars of the Wyvern's pantomime Jack in the Beanstalk, took time out of their hectic pantomime rehearsal schedule to visit, dressed as Fairy Nuff and Fleshcreep and to introduce the children to Daisy the Cow. Luckily Paul left his bad guy persona back at the theatre and was all smiles, whilst Juliette spread happiness with her magic wand. After some surprise at seeing a four-legged beast in their midst, the children took to Daisy as if she was a member of the group.

Juliette and Paul presented playgroup supervisor Helen Kenyon with a certificate of accreditation Juliette, Paul and Daisy with Helen Kenyon, left, and her colleagues from the Pre-School Learning Alliwith Westlea Playgroup children ance. Helen said she was very pleased that the hard work by all tion but this was linked to all other Chairwoman Fiona Scott coninvolved in the group had been aspects of running a playgroup, gratulated the playgroup staff. recognised. "We were assessed on the equipment and materials used, "The PLA accreditation was a joint a portfolio of documents describ- the relationship of staff with the effort and we're all very proud ing our work and also by a two day children and also how the play- with the outcome. It sets a high observation of sessions with chil- group is managed by the parents level of achievement we must condren. The quality of care and edu- who make up the management tinue to strive for." cation was the focus of the inspec- committee."

Westlea Playgroup which meets Another pre-Christmas picture featuring animals. Youngsters at Bridlewood Primary School in Red House performed The Grumpy Sheep, the tale of rebellious

CALL VIRGINIA 01453 839464

if

in the George & Ann Tweed Room at Westlea Primary School has limited spaces available during the rest of the year and is taking registrations for September. For details call Tracy Weaver on 881785.

• Jack and the Beanstalk runs until

11ti

9 January. To book a ticket call the

zcsicians

Wyvern Theatre box office on 524481.

Fun Song sessions for

d

parents/carers with

pre-school children and babies North Swindon, Lawn South Marston

Upper Shaw Farm Nutkins Toddler Group has returned to Upper Shaw Farm social

Purton and Watchfield

Come along and join in with our fun musical approach to learning Coll now to find out more!

Call Cath on 01793 727286 or email sarah@minimusicians.co.uk

i

tonk musical fun for children aged 6 months to 4 years

"Join us for nursery rhymes, puppets, bubbles, pour pours, hobby horses ribbons, animal masks, parachute games and musical instruments" Wed/Fri am in Abbey Meads (new classes) Tues am in Wootton Basse tt free trial session available, reduced fees for babies and discounts for siblings

Call Claire at Tinkle Tonk (01793) 722072

Toddler groups with places hall on Ridge Green after a break

Celebrating numbers 1 and 20

for repairs to the hall floor.

The group meets on Tuesday and Friday mornings, 1 Dam to 12noon.

Upper Shaw Farm Playgroup will be marking its twentieth anniversary in May, but in December the children and staff celebrated the For details call Dawn Higham on 321108 or 07775 591455. first year of their supervisor Jayne Miller.

"It's been a lovely year, Peatmoor Community Primary full of surprises" said School Jayne, left. "Thank you to A new weekly drop in session for all the staff and committee parents and carers with under 5s who have made it so good." starts on Thursday 6 January, 1 pm The management com- to 3pm.

The cost is £1 per session inmitteeareplanningaparty and would like tohear from cluding refreshment, but the first is For details call the commuany of the parents who free. p ity office on 881613. were in at the formation of the playgroup in 1983 and Central Swindon 1984.

• The group has vacanciesfor3to5yearoldsand can offer from two to five sessions, either in the morning gam to 11.45am or afternoon, 12.15am to 2.45pm. For details call Pam Porter on 877936

Little Bears is a new toddler group

for 0 to 4 year olds which meets in St Mark's Church hall (opposite Faringdon Road Park) on Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am.

The cost is £1.25 for a family group and refreshments are pro i vided. For details call Sarah Hussey on 879031.

19

!!(1t !l

t4 r

^l

Fully qualified hairdresser with 16 year's experience.

THE LINK

!INE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S

j AND ARC

SWINDON

Have your hair done in the comfort of your own home.

Very competitive prices.

Call Kate on 01793 725651

Place your order for this year's Christmas gift

or 07731 547992

Line Dance with

Midnight Cowboys Monday: Rodbourne Cheney, 7.30 Rodbourne Cheney Club. Moredon Road (near Rodbourne Arms)

Tuesday: Even Swindon. 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road)

An award winning European photographer is shooting Swindon from a different perspective.

Marek Czarnecki from Torun, Swindon's Polish partner city. has already taken a series of striking 360 panoramic scenes of the town and will return in the Spring to complete the collection of 80 stunning images which will be publi shed in hardback next October.

He is working with website design company Rubber Dragon and

Polish advertising agency Ate Foka and is looking to Swindon companies for backing.

The Mayor of Swindon coun Peter Stoddart is supporting the project and the DeVere Hotel and the McArthur Glen DesignerOutlet are already sponsors. Companies placing advanced orders will benefit from publicity and advertising.

The Link has signed up as a media partner to promote the book throughout the year.

Marek has already produced a book of Torun panoramas. For a preview of his Swindon work, go to www.swindonpanoramas.co.uk

The site has details about placing advanced orders and offering company sponsorship. or call Chris Bulzacki on 07879 637159.

Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00

Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching.!

Euro link enables SwindonLink relaunch The Link is spreading its worldwide reach with the help of computer programmers based in Swindon and its Polish partner city Torun.

We have worked with magazine and includes an archive of some reader Chris Bulzacki of Rubber 550 items dating back to 1999.

Dragon web design who commisRubber Dragon has been buildsioned Torun based programmers ingwebsitesin Swindon since 2001 Artur Grabowski and Gregorz and maintains a directory of local Kubiak to give a new look to websites at Open Swindon.co.uk swindonlink.com Chris said, "our main target marWith a focus on stories that ap- ket is in Swindon so we are very pear in the magazine - and quite a pleased to be able to work with The few that don't make it onto paper - Linkto broaden its appeal beyond the site has a clearer, more read- its paper product." able design and easy navigation.

"The site uses an advanced _ . content management database on Linux, written in PH and HTML. Maintenance ref quirements are minimal sothe I^L^ site can be easily updated through The Link's Apple ^°°^ sw^oao^NeWSHeaat^^es Macintosh system." swin don link. com is now a ,,m,„ more attractive vehicleforad°"^ vertising to compliment the Wk s= ^"^" ' ` ""' ^ n» excellent offer made by the magazine. For details mail: do " li ^0< 5 ^ss2 • publisher @ swindonlink.com i <_ . l P woM S• flO f ov '^'"•<p'°"°"°"°"" To discuss innovative web _ Wti s4^'j m^ ^=m^^°v ,^„•, ! site design contact Chris Bulzacki at www.rubber << r m` ° dragon.com

WYVERN IT THEATRE THEATRE SQUARE, SWINDON Box OFFICE: (01793) 524481

^.vino^n

20

Swir kr

4/vqy (BYYO1J 55 Godwin Court Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 640333

Start the New Year with a new hobby Made by You run workshops in cardmaking and scrapbooking to suit all abilities. Prices start from just £5 for a 3 hour workshop, with all equipment, materials and refreshments provided.

Made by You is the one stop shop for all your papercrafting and scrapbooking supplies. Run by experienced crafters and cardmakers we pride ourselves on our friendly welcome and customer service.

Dance

NEW YEAR @ Stratton Community Leisure Centre

We Cook forward to seeing you very soon

Open: Monday to Saturday 1 Oam to 6pm

' QcVy e

Grange Drive, Stratton St Margaret • Tel: 825525

SATURDAY 29 JANUARY fi r3

Find products and accessories from suppliers such as Do Crafts, Making Memories, Colorbok, Janlynn, Anita's, Craft Creations, Xyron and so many more

Exhibitions

Wednesday 12th, 7.30pm Swindon Museum & Art Gallery The Nutcraker by St Petersburg Until Sunday 30th Ballet Theatre. Wyvern. See advert All Aboard on page 19 A celebration of the centenary of Thamesdown Transport with transThursday 13th, 7.30pm Swan Lake by St Petersburg Ballet port memorabilia, a model tram and Theatre. Wyvern. See advert on page photographs.

19 Arts Centre Tuesday 4th to Saturday 29th Wednesday 26th, 7.45pm Tracey Baker-Stewart: Retrospective A collection of works produced since 2001 that revolves around the theme of memories and the way they link to our sense of place.

Wyvern, Lower Foyer From Tuesday 11th Nicola Scott: Collectives Figurative paintings isolate a particular moment, and translate it into a form the viewer can identify with.

Great Western Hospital From Thursday 6th Henri Oguike Dance Company John Hodder: Light on the Land An exhilarating mix of works Travel, memories and inspirations, celebrating Oguike's intense in a series of abstract landscapes musicality and driven choreography. inspired by travels round Britain and £12. Wyvern the American Wilderness.

West Swindon Library Pantomime Tuesday 4th to Friday 28th Coleshill Children's Photo Project.

Until Sunday 9th A series of photographs taken by Jack and the Beanstalk. £15/£13.

Coleshill children, using disposable Wyvern cameras, coordinated by Swithin Fry.

Made by You stock a range of products to suit all tastes, pockets and abilities — with more arriving every week!

So whether you are a complete novice or have been crafting for years we are confident that you'll find something to inspire you!

Wide Wt's

C>,

The Electric Theatre starring the sensational > MARK PRICE performing songs from some of the top shows in London, past & present, Neil Diamond tribute plus lots more.

Tickets: £6 members; £7 guest members

SATURDAY 12 FEBRUARY VALENTINE NIGHT SPECIAL & BUFFET with 5 To The Bar Tickets: £8 members; £9 guest members

SATURDAY 26 FEBRUARY Tribute to MADONNA, Tribute to BLONDIE and Tribute to TOM JONES Tickets: £10 members; £11 guest members For all above: doors open 7pm for approx 8.15pm start; food available.

Tickets purchased on the evening, subject to availability, add £2.

21

On in Jnucr^ Film Friday 7th & Saturday 8th, 7.45pm Bride and Prejudice (12A)

Swapping corsets for saris, and piano for bhangra. Jane Austin gets a Bollywood makeover. Fun, flamboyant and full of wit Bride and Prejudice is a romantic comedy which lives up to its eastern promise. £4. Arts Centre Friday 14th & Tues 18th, 7.45pm Life and Death of Peter Sellers (15) Peter Sellers receives a fittingly amusing and hollow biopic which manages to send up the superficial glamour of the times. Geoffrey Rush is extraordinary as the chameleonli ke comicwho delighted millions, yet li ved a fraught private life. £4. Arts Centre Thursday 20th, 7.45pm The Stepford Wives (12A) Nicole Kidman and Matthew Broderick star as New Yorkers who relocate to the picture-perfect community of Stepford, where the women are all traditional homemakers. £4. Arts Centre

I

Friday 14th, 7.30pm Collateral (15) One night Los Angeles taxi driver, Max (Jamie Foxx) soon realises that his mysterious fare. Vincent (Tom Cruise) is a contract killer, pulling Max into his world of systematic murdering, leaving him with no escape. £4. Wyvern Monday 31st Wimbledon (12A) A British tennis player has lost his ambition and fallen to 157th in the world rankings. Fortunately he meets ayoung player on the women's circuit who helps him capture his focus.

Starring Kirsten Dunst, Paul Bettany, Sam Neil. £4. Wyvern

Talk Friday 28 January, 7.30pm Mammoth finds in the Cotswolds

OLI] SHAW LANE, NINE ELMS, WEST SWINDON 11 1793

770442

JANUARY SALE!!

4

TWO MEALS FOR £ Fancy sitting in a traditional pub with a real log fire?

Real ales, good wine selection and friendly staff, what more could you ask for?

Select two meals from our bar menu and pay only £10 Why not join in our popular Thursdag night quiz and make a night of t!l!

To view all our current menus and what's on: www.thenineelms.com O ff er valid 3rd - 31st January. Not to be used with any other discount currently available.

'

"

^-

` '

Freshly prepared daily

Now open 7 days a week at 7 Moredon Road, Blair Parade Telephone orders welcome Travel back in time to Jurassic and Ice Age Britain, with local geologist Dr Neville Hollingworth. £3 for members of Friends; £4.50 for non members. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery I

F's a DmvAe Dance y

ceiebi

THE NINE ELMS PUBLIC HOUSE

icv

01793 613600 Open from 12noon until late

LIJ TMINO

Holder of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

Award Winning

.iii' Quality Fish & Chips

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

sI

2 If you've never used us before

- Try us

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

REMIND YOURSELF WHAT NATURAL UNPROCESSED FOOD IS LIKE

Syr

Chips from real potatoes and top quality fish from the sea

' a

►

Dinner Dance - 29th January in the Garden Room with dancing to live 6 piece band "Celebration".

(528.00 per person)

• all with fewer calories than chicken tikka masala, sweet & sour pork*

and more nutritious and satisfying than burger and fries.

We now have a seating area so you can enjo y your fish & chips at a table with a hot cup of tea or coffee Sours: Carlson Bengston Consultants Ltd

%^

^0^11:01^93721^01 ^+ Best Western Premier

Blunsdon House Hotel * * * * www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

^^TI'aW 1ftfi In ran,nr Nan

resraannn

is

ra*o-awsrs

£1 off all orders over £3 with this voucher

West Swindon District Centre. Tel: 870 455

22

SwfrdGr Wide WhGct's Cr in )anuCcr4

Music Saturday 15th, 8pm

.,

Saturday 22nd,

Wednesday 19th, 8pm Chas & Dave, Now & Then. An all new show celebrating 30 years at the top. £12 Wyvern

o

Eugene `Hideaway' Bridges. Son of blues guitarist Hideaway Slim, this soulful blues singer plays part of an acoustic duo. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 15th. 8pm Pasadena Roof Orchestra with an evening of toe-tapping fun and syncopated sophistication celebrating the repertoire of great entertainers - Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire and many more. £12 Wyvern Tuesday 18th, 8pm One Night of Queen. Gary Mullen won Stars in Their Eyes as Freddie Mercury in 2000. His band, The Works, reproduces to perfection the sound, the look and the showmanship of arguably the greatest live band of all ti me. £16. Wyvern

Friday 21st and Sat 22nd, 7.30pm Let's Rock with K School of Music. A show case of fun, song and dance for all ages. £8 Wyvern Friday 21st, 8pm Martin Carthy. A highly influential, innovative and much imitated guitar player. Martin was a member of Steeleye Span and the Albion Country Band. joined The Watersons with his wife Norma and her siblings and also appeared in Waterson Carthy, before launching a successful solo career. £11. Arts Centre

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Westonbirt School. Tetbury, Glos. Tel: 01666 880333 West Swindon Library.

Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

0 •TM:[•1•

Classic Mealfor Two Prawn crackers Sesame chicken on toast

Chld i ren an'd ami 1y Events T7

Saturday 22nd, 11am The Wasp in the Wig presented by Sixth Sense Theatre. Mark Hollander's adaptation ofstoriesfrom Alice in Wonderland and A/ice Through the Looking Glass, incorporates storytelling, music, song, puppetry and dance. Presented by Sixth Sense Theatre Company. Suit 5 year olds and upwards. £5. Arts Centre

Swindon Recital Series: Laurette Pope. As a teenager from Wootton Bassett, Laurette was Principal Harp in UK's National Youth Orchestra and the European Union Youth Orchestra.

Wednesday 12th & Thurs 13th, 8pm Programme to include Debussy.

Twelfth Night by Swindon Young Faure and Khatchaturian. £10. Arts Actors. Set on the party island of Centre Illyria, where a host of familiar Friday 28th, 7.30pm characters frequent 'Olivia's', a The Rosaleen Trio. This young popular nightclub. £5 Arts Centre talented string trio will perform a Wed 26th to Sat 29th, 7.30pm programme of mostly romantic music, The Winslow Boy by The Phoenix including works by Beethoven and Players. Based on atrial which created Dvorak. £9. Westonbirt School a media frenzy just before the First World War, a father fights to clear the name of his son, a young cadet expelled from Naval College for theft. £6 Arts Centre Friday 28th & Saturday 29th Treasure Island. Thames Water Customer Services presents its 8th charity show to raise funds for WaterAid, The Prospect Hospice and Rheumatoid Arthritis. £730. Wyvern

Theatre

do 40

Superior Mealfor Two

° o QJ

Mini veg spring rolls (6) Sweet & sour chicken Hong Kong style

7.30pm

O

j

Beef with mushrooms in black bean sauce Satay roast pork Egg fried rice

o0

Quarter aromatic crispy duck & prawn crackers Crispy seaweed Tiger prawns wrapped in filo Satay ckicken on skewers Deep fried shredded chilli beef Chicken with green peppers in black bean sauce Special fried rice Fortune cookies

Fortune cookies £16.8

Winter Special for TWO from ll January to 21 March Quarter Crispy Duck OR Curried Trigons Crispy Seaweed and BBQ Spare Ribs Roast Pork Curry OR Beef with Ginger & Spring Onions Chicken & Mushrooms in Black Bean Sauce Shredded Chilli Beef Prawn Crackers, Egg Fried Rice & Fortune Cookies £17.33

Complementary bottle of wine or Coke

£20.88

______________

The Vale, Oakhurst Way, Swindon 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses

Due to our incredible success we are now sold out until Autumn 2005.

Reserve one of our final release now and make sure your new home is just how you want it in time for next Christmas!

For more information visit our Marketing Suite,

W

open daily from 9.30am to 5.00pm, visit

our

website

or

call

01793 728 566 bryant.co.uk

,qfl,qfl I mages shown are not representations of the actual development. They do, however, reflect the style and character we aim to create.

Bryant Homes

by Taylor Woodrow

24

Swindon

Charity gifts all round

LIGHTING BUG 4^

FACTORY WAREHOUSE IN WEST SWINDON Units 16/17 Westmead Industrial Estate, Westlea, Swindon

Probably the widest selection of affordable lighting in Wiltshire Open: I

*

Locate the Lighting Bug

Mon to Sat 9.30am to 5.30pm Bank Holidays 10am to 4pm

J165`1Jntlon

r,^re ^

UBtl,^9^BU9

c eo

s^ Po'ice Sta icn

G'ca^ Z

y

www.lightingbug.co.uk

w

n

tl ntl ,,,,.,

CH ARISMA

d

BLINDS _'

rainbow of colours to brighten up your home this Winter!

Catch the rainbow at Charisma Blinds The factory - the place for quality and value Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm, Saturday 1 Oam - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns We'll also gladly order anything else you need.

Dolls houses E- miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items In the Stable A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world

Mon to Sat 10to5 • Sun11 to5

South Swindon MP Julia Drown visited Asda West Swindon on 13 December to play Father Christmas on behalf of the staff.

Thanks to their efforts thoughout 2004, £5,500 was presented to local representatives of the GWH Special Care Baby Unit, MacMillan Cancer Care, NSPCC, the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK, Testicular Cancer, Tickled Pink for Breast Cancer and Children in Need.

Julia said she was deli ghted to be invited. "The staff have such great enthusiasm for fundraising.

It's a fantastic amount and Julia presents A/ysson McSherry. c/inica/ it does not include their nurse manager at the GWH Special Care practical effort, for exam- Baby Unit, with a £400 cheque raised by ple, redecorating a room at Asda colleague Sharon Francis from the West Swindon Family West/ea, left, who turned her husband's Project in September. 2003 Christmas gift of a parachute jump They've done really well." into a fundraiser

Home Library on offer West Swindon. Highworth and Liden libraries still have spaces available for people to use the Home Library Service, the free service for people of all ages, who are unable to get to a library or have no one to make a visit on their behalf.

The books, audio books, CDs and videos are selected by library staff to reflect the readers' preferences and then delivered directly to the customers door by the scheme's 60 volunteers.

For details call Debs Osorio, Home Library Co-ordinator on 707127 or mail: dosorio@swindon.gov.uk

Greenmeadow play time Four year old Bethan Knight made an important contribution at a small ceremony on 1 December to relaunch the play area at the Trent Road playing field, located between Thames Avenue and Severn Avenue.

Her drawing He at Play was chosen in a competition by members of the Haydon Wick Junior Parish Council and she was watched by reception children from all the primary schools in Haydon Wick as she cut the ribbon on a new slide. Equipment providers Wickstead Leisure distributed goody bags to the youngsters.

The fenced-off site is larger than the one it replaces and has been designed to meet the latest safety standards. On offer are two sets of swings, a combined climbing frame, tunnel and slide, a seesaw and a spring rocker.

The site has been paid for by Haydon Wick Parish Council, one of several in the area which are checked regularly by parish councillors to ensure they are safe and well maintained.

Bethan Knight ready to do the honours with Richard Hailstone, chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council Swindon Services are also contracted to inspect each item of equipment and submit a report to the parish council every month.

Winners of Footie Chick T shirts Danielle Bowden. Greenmeadow: G Howes. Grange Park; Pauline Gane; Haydon Wick: Helen Dunn, Grange Park: Carly Evans, Rodbourne Green; Abby Gregory. Penhill; Kim Whyte, Grange Park: T Midwinter, Little Avenue; C Butler, Willowbrook; Jane Clark, Kingsdown; Heather, Toothill; Mr S Clarke, Blunsdon; Rachel Hardy, Toothill: Sonya Ponsford, Taw Hill; Pauline Russell, Rushey Platt; J Cavill, Greenmeadow; Emma Johnson, Redhouse; Emma, Ramleaze.

25

Wide Shaw Community Forest lives on Swindon's forest close to the town centre celebrated ten years of growth at a consultation day on 2 December which gave people the chance to discover its beginnings, how it has developed and to meet the team responsible for its future.

t

beaut

h:-.

- rof .sionr

y

®. .

r

Freshbrook Village Centre

@ Ha wv

• Nail Extensions • Nail Art • St Tropez Airbrush Tanning • Waxing (Ladies & Gents) • Eye Treaments • Ear Piercing • Pedicures • Gift Vouchers

Tel: 881600

,®

A Happy New Year to all our customers

www.nail-works.co.uk Forest fighters. from left. West Swindon council/or Nick Martin. Keith Williams. chair of Shaw Residents "Association, Alan Hayward. David Evans, director of the Great Western Community Forest Last July a bizarre scheme, proposed by property developers in league with Swindon Town FC. to turn the former landfill site into a sports village featuring a football stadium at its heart was stopped in its tracks when Swindon Council reaffirmed the decision made in the early 1 990s to include the area as part of the Great Western Community Forest.

Thanks to the efforts of residents who campaigned hard to remind councillors of their earlier commitments. the 40,000 trees already planted will be added to over

the next 20 years, providing new environments for birds. bees and beasts in the midst of urban development.

Work on improving foot access will take place early in the year and contractors will be planting 3.000 trees during March. Another community tree planting day is planned for next winter.

Forest campaign coordinator Alan Hayward from Sparcells said, "Shaw Forest Country Park is an amazing place and is a legacy to Swindon's children and grandchildren. It was worth fighting for."

s

the haircare professionals

Why not try out a new look for the New Year?

Freshbrook Village Centre Swindon Tel: (01793) 873217 Proprietor Paul Edwards, 15 years London experience www.hairworks.uk.com

Studley Grange Eutte %\ \V t [d

WRAG BARN

garden & leisure park

\Vrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road, Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ

y

-1VOT3 ae

Tel: 01 793 86132 7 Fax: 01793 861325 Email: f;r/ tiit 'ragharir .com www.wragbarn.com

or Kjdd

eft -,'^

Open daily Summer: 10am - 6prn Winter : 9am -dusk Season l:ckets available - Full disabled access Tailored educational visits - Group visits w 1l me Large gift shop - Free parking for cars and coaches

^'4

^'?

-

`F

Tel:01793 852400 info:studleygrange.co.uk

Sunday Carvery Li _each

Enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carveiy Lunch.

Service commences at 12 noon.

Advance booking is advisable.

A FAMILY DAY OUT THATS FULL OF INTEREST

ceople 9ta ft

Golf Society Specials

F

ifY

,

_

r

U

s s

usca6fe.

^..,

"

•

.

I

v

,^ L

0

^..^

Creates

&a..p:.g S

p g

53 p

I

Interactive Pla y for all Tel 01793 855566

it infoofemsphotgraphics w b http://www ferrisphotographi6

tel 07765 197810 j 'la'tet

,,o5a

Oos&.g Cu ,.-aO g Ld. D^ p

I

Ferris photographs studio natural contempora ry family and childrens po rt raits.

_

Tel 01793849372 !!

For that extra special Winter's Day Outing Enjoy one of our 18 bole Winter Packages (Available until 31/3/2005 for a minimum of 8 people) 'Ice Breaker' Package at just £25.00 per head • Coffee • 18 holes • 2 Course Chefs Choice Warmer 'Frost Bite' Package at just £30. D0 per head • Coffee & Bacon Butty • 18 holes • 3 Course Chefs Choice Warmer The weather may be cold and icy but the greeting you receive at Wrag Barn will be warm and friend!)'

AND A GREAT VENUE FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES,

f ^.

Pant Muss, planes a (nd owlr +ha+ are

L

S'ta'te s ea3k-o

J16

WOOnen Ba55ett j'§?^ !

\. fin '-?

PtdLlerM JPf Pa-Min9 ea Ple ear caNiny ki+s

Butterfly 1 u gp . or

far sate Tel/Fax 01793 85S 377 Qi+r

i

here

Garden Centre

-

Tel 01793 855850

We are

U

rwgmon

26

Two big anniversaries for Prospect Hospice in 2005 Maggie Gill, Community Fundraiser for the Prospect Hospice, appeals to you to make a special New Year resolution

This year, Prospect Hospice is looking forward to celebrating a special double anniversary with the people of Swindon — 25 y ears as a charity and 10 years based at the purpose built hospice in Wroughton. This is because without the support of the local community, Prospect wouldn't be able to do what it does best.

But what does Prospect do exactly?

Think about the difference between two `small' words: CARE and CURE. Often when someone is ill they receive treatment, are cured and continue their lives as they choose to do.

Not everyone is that fortunate.

Some people receive a diagnosis which turns their world upside down and that of their loved ones. Suddenly the world is a strange place. which cannot be faced with the same certainty and confidence.

Prospect Hospice is committed to improving quality of life for patients

living with a progressive life-threatening illness and support to those people important to them. Currently Prospect supports those living with cancer, motor neurone disease or HIV/ AIDS who are referred to us.

Providing specialist care and support, Prospect Hospice works alongside family doctors, District Nurses and hospital colleagues, helping people focus on living life as fully as possible and achieving those things important to them.

There are four key services provided by Prospect and its terrific care team:

Unwanted presents?

Donate them to the Prospect Hospice to be sold through their charity shops.

Presents, good quality items of clothing and brie a brae (no furniture or electrical goods) are being collected from 4 to 31 January at Lok' n Store: Rushy Platt Industrial Estate: Elgin Industrial Estate Monday to Saturday gam to 4pm; Sunday 12 noon to 2pm.

Handing over. New ChiefExecuti ve Vicki Money and outgoing General Manager David Line who departs at the end of February

I Prospect Community Macmillan Nurses are often the first contact with Prospect, providing support and care in patients' own homes; 2 Day Hospice runs on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week and is a supportive service where patients can meet other folk facing similar problems in a warm and friendly place; 3 In Patient Unit provides respite care, symptom assessment and control, and terminal care within 10 bedrooms; 4 Providing training and continuing development for Prospect Hospice staff and volunteers and others involved with the care and support of people living with a progressive life threatening illness.

• get your kit off?! Prospect shops need your support by donating good quality clothes. bric-a-brac and books.

January is a great time to have a postChristmas clear out;

How do we know that Prospect makes a difference?

Here are some of the comments made by patients using Prospect's services: • what about getting together with a group of families, friends and neigh"I've been going to the Prospect Day bours as a support group and organise Hospice for nearly three years. I didn't regular events, such as coffee mornwant to go at first but I am so glad I ings or tea parties; changed my mind. I'm a different person in myself from when I first started." • join the Prospect Lottery - for just ` ... peaceful nights ... no rattling of £1 per week you could become a noisy trolleys or endless water run- £1,000 winner and know you are helpning ...my family was very impressed" ing Prospect too; "It's way above a first class hotel... • become a Prospect volunteer — we it's been a total rest. I've been able to have over 500 marvellous volunteers who support the staff in their work sleep and I feel like eating now!" through a variety of duties; "I come here to live" Prospect is the only hospice in North • if you are a UK tax payer we can East Wiltshire, supporting a commu- reclaim Gift Aid from the Inland Revenue at the rate of 28 pence for every nity of 300,000. Each and every day Prospect supports between 200 and £1 donated. This comes solely from income tax and does not cost you a 250 patients together with their famipenny extra. lies and carers.

This special care is free but costs over£8.000 per day and Prospect needs to find the majority of these costs from within our local community and the voluntary sector.

So how can you help?

There are many ways to help by giving your time, talents and energy to Prospect and you can always talk to a member of the fundraising team on 815142 or the volunteer manageron813355.

If you want to know more, then please get in touch with me on 815142.1 am more than happy to come along to any community group or business organisation to talk more about Prospect Hospice.

Please start the New Year with a resolution to help make a difference to Prospect Hospice. On behalf of patients, staff and volunteers, thank-you.

Here are some ideas on how you can help in 2005: • join our boxes scheme and see your pennies mount up. You could even organise a group of friends and neighbours and arrange a llayyie Gill with rrrembers of the Swindon Artists Society t wice yearly who have raised 8,000 for Prospect since 1997. From left, collection of e.ahibitionorganiserDebbieTubh, Elizabeth Habgood,treasurer, Diana Crafer, chair, John Mcllhagga, manager of the boxes; McArthu r Glenn Designer Outlet

New Year sale time in Q' - Town

DEACONS it

:IJ_:Ii2ln

I

Trying to find that `something different'?

Then pay us a visit Gifts, toys and jewellery to suit every budget

10 Wood Street, Old Town Tel: 511099

China, crystal, cutlery, jewellery, clocks, watches and much more

S

i m..-.1u

SALE STARTS TUESDAY 28th DECEMBER

•1i'^J

27

www.dandelionswindon.co.uk

'SALE NOW

ON!

Reductions on all brands Many lines half price

Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

Niel 11111111

Deacon & Son (Swindon) Ltd

• CARPETS • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL UNDERLAY • ACCESSORIES

Est 1848

No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions

UST i RIGHT PRICE AND IF

11 - 15 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon

-

RUE VALUE

from the start Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

Telephone: 522072/527530

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

ART GALLERY wn, Swindon THE PREMIER OLD TOWN CARPET STORE

THE GILBERTS

GENUINE SALE NOW ON

'. 15% off all upholstery, inc, special orders . 15% off lamps, mirrors, pictures, etc.

Free measuring & fitting service with quality service and choice

GILBERTS CARPETS & UPHOLSTERY 1 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 431992 ,/ •

•

•

•

•

•

/

SALE Adam Barsby, Lawrence Coulson, Govinder, Rolf Harris, Doug Hyde, Paul Horton, Alexander Millar, David Shepherd, Mackenzie Thorpe, Nel Whatmore and many more

^. 10% off all carpets

htasteCmC

ANNUAL

A once a year opportunity to buy art at amazing prices as we make space for new work.

Doors open at l Oam Saturday 8th January Tel: 01793 641 353 www.hallidayart.co.uk

28 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Clear out the cupboards and turn that hidden treasure into cash

Over 2,500 sq. ft. of products for the Artist, Crafter and Student

You've heard about e-bay, the glo- discovered the 'drop bal electronic bric-a-brac store. shop' idea on the Lots of people seem to be on it, internet and set up the D.M.C. Main Agency buying and selling to a world- business which he Daylight Lamps Stockist wide market, but the majority are thinks is the second of Picture Framing not. its kind in Britain.

DIY Framing Supplies But now Marc and Julie All you have to do Well worth a visit. T ry us!

Tieleman, from Grange Park, are is take the item you helping people turn their junk into want to sell to his unit Framework Art & Craft gold by selling it for them on e-bay at BSS House in 63 Pembroke Centre though www.letusauctionit.co.uk Cheney Manor where Cheney Manor Trading Estate Having been made redundant he will prepare a deSwindon SN2 2PQ from a senior position at the now scription, photograph Tel/Fax: (01793) 513069 defunct Cellular Operations, Marc and display it to the Phone for directions. Parking.

175 million people who regularly use ebay worldwide.

"Why bother with Next day secretarial services the limitations of an by ex-London PA auction or a car boot Call Practical Qb to top investment banks sale; they're so time Applications Ltd. now based in Swindon consuming and there's for a friendly service Save money on temps and a good chance you'll `) Upgrades Repairs pay by the hour return home with Networking & the internet Reports • Letters most of the stuff," said Home visits, collection Mailshots Marc. "The e-bay audience is enor& delivery PowerPoint Presentations mous and there's a very good Or for help getting started, call Any secretarial work chance you will sell your offering. us days, evenings or weekends on undertaken and delivered Everybody has items in boxes, in by email the very next day.

01793 321361 the loft or the garage, which they think will be of use, but in fact are Mobile 07919 263072 Confidential service on their way to the dump one day.

E-mail: allen@practicalapplications.co.uk Tel/fax: 01793 723921 "Now you can turn those unwww.practicalapplications.co.uk sarah.sprigg@btopenworld.com used items into cash without the fiddle of trying to sell it yourself on the internet."

Marc said the reaction to his venture had been very encouraging. "Loads of people have said Virus & Popup removal, etc. they've been meaning to get round Laser printer maintenance I to setting up an e-bay account.

Whilst its relatively easy to buy at Wootton Bassett 01793 850050 ,ust^ai Systems Ltd online auctions, selling items can wwwbrishtwaterssst e. ms.en_uk Est. 1988 be complicated; many can't be bothered. That's where we come . ads. in; you'd be surprised what a wide a \i O range of things will sell."

Is your PC

bugging you?

E - Secretary

Anipuler/Laplop repairs

l

There is a market for just about anything. Children's clothing goes well, and Marc has sold fireplace surrounds, beds, antiques and a 1976 Wyvern Theatre programme signed by Dame Margot Fontyn when she danced in Swindon. letusauctionit.co.uk is also available to businesses who want to sell excess stock and Marc is going to create a new income stream for schools and community groups.

Unsold jumble sale donations can now have a second chance to raise cash - online.

How many duplicate or unwanted Christmas gifts have you got? Or is this a good time for an early Spring clean?

For details, call 0845 2269422 if you're not online or go to www.lctusauctionit.co.uk

SMALL BUSINESS WEBSITES Young and old seek French connections

£67.50 set up fee • £20.80 per month

The Haydon Wick Twinning Group continues to develop relations with the people of La Garenne-Colombes, with current emphasis on both ends of the age spectrum.

In November, The Link reported lar group in the Parisian suburb.

Parish councillor Phil Eagle is on six felt panels created by the five primary schools in the parish pleased with the progress made so and the Haydon Wick Over 60's far, but is aware that there is plenty Club to mark the links established of scope for more links. "When my wife and I visited La Garenne between the two communities.

Now the teachers and children in the summer, we spoke to sevin the twin communities are being eral groups including walkers, encouraged to communicate on a boules players and scouts keen to regular basis by email. get in touch with their counterAs for Swindon seniors, the parts over here. Anyone from French group at the University of Haydon Wick interested in estabthe Third Age, which meets at the lishing contacts can get in touch Haydon Centre, is being encouraged with the parish council." to develop connections with a simiFor details call 722446.

Includes domain name and free updates

Call 01793 485355

a

S'.

C

r

^v rs^

"

al

C;

a

ii ' ^,

: 't

Call 872282

t f' 1 , e

E

C fp ijt

ŠI Mortgage Brokers

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd Serving the community since 1987

Could you pay less for your mortgage in the New Year?

Whether you're planning to move to a new house or to re-mortgage your property, with over 16 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent service

Rate guaranteed to stay 0.31 % below Bank of England base rate for 2 years.

The current rate is 4.44% Then changing to the standard variable rate, currently -x.75%, for the remaining life of the mortgage

This low two year variable rate tracker stays below the Bank of England base rate for the next two years.

So why part with more money than you have to?

We also offer a regular mortgage review service on an ongoing basis The overall cost for comparison is 6.5% APR An early repayment charge is payable if you repay all or part of this mortgage on or before the second anniversary of completion A f499 arrangement fee which can be added to the loan and a minimum 40% deposit is required Only available to first time buyers, movers or remortgage customers moving their mortgage to the new lender There may be a fee for mortgage advice payable only if your mortgage completes.

The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it would be f350 which can be included within the loan amount Completion must take place by 28/02/05. Figures correct at time of going to press.

You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your needs.

Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK

For free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now on

Swindon

772779 e: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk

Generalmsurance

30 The Link Magazine • January 2005 4^o

N ti o

Pu ton House Church End Purton, Swindon Tel 01793 772287 :

Call for details about our

Organic Box Scheme Vegetables • Fruit Meat • Eggs Deliveries & drop off points in Swindon, Cirencester, Wootton Bassett, Broad Hinton, Marlborough, Wroughton

www.purton-house.co.uk

Master runner seeks sponsor A keen runner reached the peak of his running career at the age of 48.

Competing for Scotland Link and very muddy 5 mile course as Gym instructor Brian Gardner was the best he had ever done. "I enfirst in the 45 to 50 age group in the joyed every moment of the race British and Irish Masters Cross and it took me days to come down Country International in late No- from the excitement of winning." vember, and fifth overall.

He took second place in OctoHe described running on a hilly ber's Swindon half marathon and now he is thinking of entering the European Masters Cross Country in March, in Sweden, and possibly Join a new, friendly and supportthe Masters half marathon in Porive group to lose weight through tugal in May. walking which starts on WednesHowever Brian needs sponsors day 12 January. to help him fund one or both expe- in mid-December. He will continue Call Eunice Salmon on 871606 ditions. to train at the Link and will somefor details.

Having been a gym instructor at times be seen working in there as the Link Centre for six years, Brian holiday cover.

To offer sponsorship leave a took up a position as Over 50s physical activities coordinator for message for Brian at the Link CenSouth Gloucester District Council tre on 445566.

Walk it off!

Hreod pupil retains county badminton title Patrick Hobbs, 12, from Haydon Wick, was a convincing winner of the Wiltshire Boys U13 badminton championships at the end of November.

Pod, as he is known to family and friends, breezed through the early rounds and the final to take the title for the second year running. He and his partner Matt Iles also won the doubles title for the second time.

As a junior member of the Pinehurst Badminton Club, Pod is the current holder of the Swindon Boys U12 & U14 singles titles.

Patrick, right, with doubles partner, Matt lies

Achieve Success

4

a a

^ '4^y , o^c

° fitness Consultancy

NEW VENUES FOR PILATES CLASSES Ramleaze Hall - new Pilates Class for Beginners Thursday: 9.30am - 10.30am Shaw Village Hall Monday: 6pm - 7pm; Wednesday: 7.30pm - 8.30pm St Johns Church, Haydon Wick Tuesday: 8pm - 9pm Primebodies Gym Tuesday: I Oam - I I am

YOGA CLASSES Emmanuel Church, Haydon Wick Monday: 7.30pm - 8.30pm Greendown School, Grange Park Tuesday: 8pm - 9pm; Friday: 7.30pm - 8.30pm Cricklade Town Hall Monday: 7.30pm - 8.30pm; Thursday: I pm - 2pm Al! classes start week

beginning 10th January

Beauty

Studio

at Redhouse, Priory Vale. Tel: 01793 722493 A professional and friendly service using top of the range beauty products and treatments, with the emphasis on 'theraputic' beauty.

1

r'^

This year we are launching Aroma Soul, a new range of massage treatments with influences from all over the world these will compliment our hot stone

and other massage techniques.

We also have the latest wraps and French spa body treatments together with state of the art electrical inch-loss lypolysis and muscle toning treatments from Italy.

Our facial range is provided by Collin of Paris, a salon-only line which gives extremely good results from both facial/body treatments and products for home use, because of the higher than average percentage of active ingredients they contain.

Hair removal is by means of electrolysis and waxing. We use both hot peelable and warm roller waxing techniques which combine to give very good results with the least amount of discomfort and irritation.

All the products used in the waxing process contain aromatherapy oils, making hair removal an enjoyable experience for the senses as well as leaving you soft and smooth.

Other treatments available to complete the top to toe range of therapies include make-up (bridal a speciality), eyelash & eyebrow tinting, eyebrow shaping, deluxe manicures and pedicures using Nailtiques and OPI.

The Link Magazine • January 2005

Looking for change in 2005?

Perfect Nails

Its worth checking first, writes holistic therapist Cherri Ann Matthews January is traditionally the time when life changing resolutions are made.

So along with joining a gym you may be looking for a therapist to help you give up smoking or lose weight. There are many different types of therapists, offering a bewildering array of therapies, which all promise to help you. So who and what do you choose?

Many people choose a therapist because their advertisement looks nice or they have letters after their name, and you may be lucky enough to find just the person you are looking for this way.

However, another way of making sure that the therapist is fully qualified, insured and can offer the quality of care you are looking for is to ring them up and have an informal consultation. The sort of questions you could ask are: What qualifications do they have and how long thev have been quali-

fled, what do their initials stand for and what official organisations do they belong to?

Don't be shy to ask for a telephone number so that you can double check their qualifications.

Ask them if they are insured and with whom, and check this out also.

You could ask if being a therapist is their full-time job or is it something they just do in the evenings, to get a feel of what sort of experience and commitment they have. Discuss your requirements and ask their opinion on what therapy would suit you best, how much this would cost and how long the treatment will take.

If you are still not sure, ask the therapist if you can visit them to have a look at their facilities and meet them for a free informal consultation. Most good therapists will not object to being 'interviewed' b y a potential new client.

As a client you are investing your

Energy for charity Marie Curie Cancer Care is looking for people to take part in two energy demanding fundraising events: 8 May. The Snowdon Mountain Challenge Trek.

26 - 29 August. London to Paris Cycle Challenge.

To take part in either event, call Clair Cusack or Sohie Kinsman on 0117 924 7275 or mail: clair.cusack@mariecurie.org.uk

31

trust, time, health and money and are therefore entitled to know that you will be treated by someone who has the skills to carry out the treatment in a safe, qualified and responsible manner.

Above all, use your intuition.

This can often be your best guide and can ensure you have the helpful and relaxing experience you were looking for in the first place.

Cherri Ann Matthews is a Holistic Therapist and Reiki Master/ Teacher and can be contacted on 871410.

Mini Manicures Gel Nail Extensions ,...

U,,..,..

10% 1` discount on first appointment

Contact Evonne on 01793 832644 or 07958 722262 Bio Sculpture • Nail Technician

Lose Those Extra Christmas Pounds!

^,}t

Join the De 'ere Swindon Leisure Club and save up to 75%r off your joining fee l'LUS If y ou lose 81b during your fi rst months membership we will gne you an extra month totallh free. `5linimum f,,nr mnnth nrem her.hip alrplie.

Facilities inlcude: Heated Indoor Pool, Cardio Vascular Suite, Sauna, Gymnasium, Solarium, Steam Room, Spa Pool, Fitech Lifestyle Room, Health & Beauty Suite, Cafe Pulse

' •

Inspiration & Relaxation Discover the De Vere Difference

1!

For more support than you ever thought possible join a warm and friendly group near you.

Monday: 6pm & 7.30pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Rodbourne.

Kathryn. 871430

Tel: 01793 72040 Come and tty us out! No cost, No obligation for your first visit (ring to book your free trial).

Our leisure club facilities include cardiovascular tvmnasiwn, squash and tennis, a challenging 9 hole golf course. We provide personal attention on a one-to-one basis.

Monday: 6.30pm & 8pm St John's Church Haydon Wick Rob, 771414 Tuesday: 9.30am, 5pm, 6.30pm Toothill Community Centre Sharon. 527332

Best Weste,n Premier

Blunsdon House Hotel Leisure Club tvwk%.hlunsdonhouse.c o. uk

WORID

the future of slimming

Tuesday: 6.30pm & 8pm Abbey Meads School Paula. 701442 Wednesday: 6.30pm Brookfield School Kathryn. 871430 Thursday: 6pm & 7.30pm St John's Church Haydon Wick Peter. 325842

32 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Look at yourself in a new light for 2005 and set yourself on the path to fitness Personal Trainer Les Slinn gives you a focus for the New Year This time of year all gyms are busy and full of people who have just set New Year resolutions and are after that quick fix, searching for the diet that will change their lives and the body they have always yearned for.

They start going to the gym or working out at home with good intentions but as so often is the case enthusiasm starts to wane and eventually they give up.

The first step to keeping going, is to start being more active. Peopie are becoming more sedentary and will use the car for even the

COUNSELLOR BACP Registered

Z

CONFIDENTIAL

& PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING W

Stressed, Anxious,

Z

Life 'Out of Balance'?^

Depressed?

Free initial consultation

O

Charles Miller

V

01793 554750 charle @crmiller.co.uk

shortest of journeys.

The simple decision to walk will help improve your cardiovascular fitness by getting your heart to start pumping blood around your body which in turn will help the condition of the heart and lungs. It is also a great way to work muscles in the lower part of your body.

Try walking to the shops rather than driving, or if you take the bus get off one stop before and walk the rest, anything to get yourself mobile again, Eventually you may wish to try our beautiful countryside, perhaps join the local Rambler group, they always welcome new faces and it's a great way to meet new friends.

Walking is good for all ages and the social aspect is just as importaut as the th exercise Some people prefer to work out in the gym. To help you stay motivated always set yourself goals, simple ones like, if the first time you spend walking on a treadmill was 10 minutes, next time try y 11 and so on. Get a friend to workout with you; it's always easier if you have a training buddy. Perhaps

try different classes or Ask yourself what has led you to activities your gym become the way you are. Is it behas to offer. You will cause of physical inactivity, commeet new people and fort eating because of stress or boredom, skipping meals then eating have fun as well.

If you are working the wrong things, or perhaps just C'j out with a training eating too much?

By becoming more active, eatprogramme, get it changed every 5 ing healthily and being less sedenweeks as your body tary, you will feel better about gets used to the same yourself, have more confidence, be healthier, and less stressed. It exercises.

Choose an item of clothing that will also help your sleep patterns feels tight to wear. As you start and give you a more positive outexercising and eating correctly, try look on life.

Make 2005 the year you look at that item on again. Your goal is to get into it comfortably; you will be yourself in a new light and set yourself on the path to fitness. amazed how good that feels.

To lose weight successfully and Good Luck and a Happy Healthy more importantly keep the weight New Year.

Les can be contacted on 07833 off you do need a lifestyle change.

582788 or mail: lslinn@supanet.com

Did you know?

Netball in Abbey Meads

Your traditional' Christmas dinner will have piled on at least 3,000 calories, excluding the booze be-

fore and Christmas cake later in the day.

If you've added just 4lbs in weight over Christmas, you've consumed 14,000 extra calories!

Guilty or what? Call the Link Centre gym on 465472 to book an induction session.

Players are needed for the Abbey Meads community netball team which meets at the primary school.

Turn up to train and play at

9.30am on Thursdays from 6 January or Saturdays. from 8 January.

Call Roxanna Cox on 0796

6023636 to book a Thursday morning creche place.

WAR O N WEIGHT FUN WEIGHT LOSS & EXERCISE CLASS RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!

Welcome to War on Weight!

Feeling fat? Fed up? Trapped in a body that's too big and too lethargic? Well help is at hand! If the idea of safe, effective and permanent weight loss sounds good, then why not pop along to one of our friendly classes?

You'll find absolutely no fads, fashions or quick-fix gimmicks —just results: for life!

And you'll love our friendly instructors and the warm atmosphere in class.

The company is run by Dawn Humphreys and Julia Richardson who were Rosemary Conley franchisees in North Wilts, Cirencester and Bath for many years. They have now founded WOW! with the professional backing of a State Registered Dietician and TV Michelin Starred Chef, Martin Blunos.

Our instructors are known for their intelligence, easygoing style and inspirational talks But more than anything, we get results. We understand everything you are going through and offer practical, effective advice that you can put into practice today.

Why not come along and change your life this week?

YOUR LOCAL CLASSES ARE: Wootton Bassett - Noremarsh Junior School, Clarendon Drive. Monday 6.30pm — 8.00pm Malmesbury - Town Hall.

Tuesday 9.45am — 11.15am Caine - St. Dunstan's Primary School, William Street.

Wednesday 6.30pm — 8.00pm West Swindon - Saltway School, Pearl Rd. Thursday 6.30pm — 8.00pm • CLASS FEE £4.50 • WEIGHT LOSS HANDBOOK £7.50 • EXERCISE ONLY £3.50 • NO NEED TO BOOK JUST TURN UP!

Telephone Dawn Humphreys on 01793 782639 for a chat.

The Link Magazine • January 2005

LWeightWatchers WESTLEA SCHOOL Thursday 5.30pm

Want to change, but something

FRESHBROOK CHURCH Wednesday 7pm

stopping you?

ABBEY MEADS PRIMARY SCHOOL Thursday 6 15pm

Clinical Hypnosis is a relaxed way of helping you to make positive changes in yourself.

HAYDON CENTRE

Monday 9.30am, Wednesday 6pm & 7.15pm

Advanced Hypnotherapy, Stress Management and

Hilary Norris-Evans

Clinical Hypnotherapist &

for other meetings in the area or visit Meeting Finder at www.weightwatchers.co.uk

Psychotherapist DCH DHP

Tel: 01249-740506 or mail: info@getmindfit.co.uk

Tel: 01793 875694

Now working at Best Of Health.

127 High Street. Wootton Bassett

FOR ALL YOUR BEAUTY TREATMENTS

Ten years experience and qualifications in: 1 Sugaring S- Waxing > Eye treatments I. Massage/tanning > Facials 1 S, , Manicures $- Pedicures For an appointment or info ring Tina on 01793 693575

Instruction for all ages, abilities & fitness levels • Qualified & Certified Personal Trainer

r

• Nut ition & Weight

Management Consultant • Circuits Instructo Core Stability & Torso Instructor • Kids Fit lrt,vn'urtor Learn how to get & stay motivated in a fun relaxed atmosphere, helping you to achieve that body you have always wanted."

Andrew Hill B.Sc (Hons) DH}p PNLP MNCH (Reg.i

Then get help here

Call 08457 123 000

Personal Trainer

"'hi'l r.morrow"

L1 ssociates

Want to lose weight; stop smoking; change your life: overcome anxiety, depression, panic attacks or fears; i mprove your confidence, sports, exam or work performance?

Sally Belcher

Beauty Zone

—

Personal Coaching

Discover the new Time To Eat programme

Les Slinn

33

BA Hons, DABCH, MCAHyp, NLP Cert, MNCH

Balance

Call: (01793) 873451 www .ahassociates.or^

1

1

I!

1

Amongst the wide range of treatments offered at the De Vere Swindon's Health & Beauty Suite are Hot Stone Therapy, Reiki, Reflexology and Bio Sculpture Gel Nail Treatments. All treatments are available to members and non-members alike.

We also offer a va ri ety of Spa Days and Gift Vouchers, both of which make ideal gifts for am' occasion.

For more information and to pre-book treatments call the Health & Beauty Suite direct on

01 , 793 8x 89362

0783 3582788 li lirtn cni supaurt.r'onr

Nicola Joy I[HHT Reflexologist

^^ l

Advanced Aromatherapy Massage -;= Indian Head Massage Member of the EH.T. (Federation of Holistic Therapies) For appointments and advice,

call: 077454 10355 Your first step to well being ... mine(, bod y and soul

•

LTE.C.(dip), I.I.H Qualified member of the International Cour-1 cfHolistrThera!

r ^•

Reflexology

t

Esc Th

M..ntls of Ih-n'-

Complementary' Health & Fitness Take time and indulge Treat yourself or someone special Gift vouchers available at

Hands of Thyme Hot Stone Therapy Massage Aromatherapy Indian Head Massage Facials Manicure & Pedicure treatments' www.handsofthyme.co.uk tel:01793 877447 email: info@handsoflhyme.co.uk

Clinic

• Reflexology • Relaxing Massage

• Remedial Massage Therapy • Eastern Head Massage • Hopi Ear Candling • Reiki Healing Deborah Goodge Call today: 01793 870426 Nine Elms, Swindon GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

AMETHYST CRYSTAL HEALING ^ REIKI ^(3 HEALING / BAC H FLOWER REMEDIES y

Let me help ou to help n'ourself

Call Julie Hopkins VHF Dip. MCHF IPTI Reiki Master Tel: 01793 870109

Z% tternAtives Pamper Evening Get together with some friends and enjoy an evening of

ARE YOU TRAPPED?

relaxation in your home • A half hour treatment for you and for each guest • Free bottle of wine £5 off next treatment voucher for you and for each guest • Soothing music, scented candles • Quality products • Choose from Indian Head or foot massage. Collagen, Spring Clean, Hydrating Facial or Reiki • Minimum 4, maximum 6 people • £15 per person Tel: 01793 345443 or 07811 291570

Chained to a desk?

Stressed?

Tired of commuting?

Want to clear credit

CHIROPODIST I

cards?

SET YOURSELF FREE?

Tel: 0207 953 4122 or

www.enjoyearning.com CHERRI ANN MATTHEWS II HHT FICHTATLM

Holistic Therapist

Advanced Reflexologist & Kinesiologist CLINIC AT 113 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor 'f.HH, \1BChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASI<

& Reiki Master/Teacher • NEW Hopi Ear Candling • Reiki I st, 2nd and Master Degree Courses.

Meditation/Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Workshops.

• Banish fears, phobias, addictions and mental/emotional blocks holding you back with EFT. Reflexology and Aromatherapy.

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 (01793) 849914 anytime

Reiki/EFT/Indian Head Massage.

t: 01793 871410 m:07720635761 www.cherriannmatthews.co.ul<

34 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Fight the Freeze with bric a brac donations

Car boot sale Freshbrook Community Centre Large hall or car park at rear Every Sunday, from 7am Age Concern Swindon is organ£4/car or table ising its second 'car-less' boot sale in Canal Walk, Swindon on SatTel: 877650 for details urday 29 January and urgently

PARKING CENTRAL SWINDON Annual long stay parking from only £63.00 per month Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793-690600

your partner in business

Don't let annoying cosmetic damage ruin the look and value of your car

• Paintwork scuffs and scratches • Interior trim repairs • Bumper repairs • Alloy wheel repairs Call 07050 266325 for a free, no obligation quote www.trimlineswindon.co.uk

need more good quality bric a brac to sell to support cold older people.

Mel Richards, Age Concern Swindon fundraising manager, said, "we can collect donations but we hope that people will be able to drop them off at our office at 14 Milton Road. " We only need bric abrac — definitely not clothes or books. We'll be happy to receive those unwanted Christmas gifts too."

Age Concern Swindon is raising funds to keep its advice and information services going during the winter. The organisation works directly with at least 500 older people in the borough every week throughout the year and is ready to Fight the Freeze if the weather turns nasty.

Cash/cheque donations (made out to Age Concern Swindon) are also welcome. To help call 692166.

Wheelchairs on offer Age Concern Swindon has around 20 wheelchairs which can be borrowed for a day, week, month or even up to three months.

There is no charge, although the service depends on donations to keep going.

Call 692166 to arrange to pick up a chair from 14 Milton Road. Delivery can be arranged if it is not possible to visit the office.

Brownies learn at safety meeting Firefighters at Westlea Station provided an intensive training evening for 1st Westlea Brownies to help them gain fire safety badges.

The 24 girls were given a tour of the station, shown the capabilities of different pieces of equipment and tried on fire fighters kit. Then it was into the lecture room to watch a video on the dangers and damage of fire and a discussion with firefighters on safety matters.

Lydia Jarmey said she had learnt that having smoke alarms in the Firefighters Simon Owen and Mark Truckle with house was imporant Tawny Owl Helen Bissex and Brownies Abigail Warand knowing what to ren, Sophie Peart, Lydia Jarmey, Rebekah Bissex do if there is a fire.

The Brownies thanked the fire posters for display in the fire stafighters by designing fire safety tion.

Birthday trip for brownies West Swindon Brownies celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Brownie movement recently by making a day trip to see the sites of London, writes Susan Care, Brown Owl with 1st Westlea Brownies.

The first stop was a morning at Sixty-six brownies from five ICANDO, formerly the Guiding packs which meet in Shaw, Heritage Centre, which is a hands Tregoze, Freshbrook and Westlea, on activity centre in Buckingham together with three Guide helpers, Palace Road. and 18 adults, travelled up in two This was followed by a picnic coaches, had a long day in the capiand play in St James Park, and tal,returningtired,buthavinghad then a flight on the London Eye. a great day out.

Brownie pose in St fairies Park

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS it Electronic tuning it Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arran ged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (No VAT to pay) CAL

GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

M.O.T. Cars • Motorcycles

01793 428430 More than just your local bus company

F Thamesdown

Providing friendly & efficient * servicing to make of car * engine & gearbox rebuilds * electrical repairs * brake and clutch repairs * cam belt replacement * MOT repairs * sales

,^ ^

a l 01AET0 C gEFBREIACKF T 2CBMESTOyOU. > BlockIOUTWtntep SeN ►CeC11eCK NBW__

OPTIMA MOTOkS Tel: (01793) 840667

Corporation Street, Swindon SN1 1 DS

39b Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Ivel)

The Link Magazine • January 2005

35

Beat those January blues — volunteer now Did you know that research has shown that volunteering to help others is of benefit to your health and well-being?, writes Alex Mullins, manager of the Swindon Volunter Centre.

So start the new year with a great resolution — do something to help others while also helping yourself!

People all over Swindon need your help now and throughout 2005.

You could work with older people, young people, people with physical disabilities or people with learning dis- Alex Mullins, right, with Millenium Volunteers abilities. You could coordinator Josie Brown support someone who has a mental health problem in the day time, in the evening or at or help a family struggling to bring weekends depending on what you up children. choose to do.

Some organisations are looking You could volunteer on a oneto-one basis as a befriender or for help once a week for two or mentor or you could help in a three hours at a regular time, othgroup situation such as a day cen- ers are more flexible and you may tre or drop-in centre for people to just be asked to give up some time once a fortnight or month. There discuss problems.

You may like driving — there are are even one-off events, such as opportunities for you to learn to helping with fundraising.

We will provide you with condrive a minibus or use your own car to take people to medical ap- tact details of groups that need your help plus information on how pointments.

Maybe you'd rather be outside to apply and what training is availand do some valuable work for the able for volunteers. So, go on environment — you could help lay help others whilst helping yourpaths, clear ditches or do some self!

Call 420557, mail: info@swindon coppicing.

There are a whole range of op- volunteers.org.uk or drop in at 1 portunities that you can choose John Street Monday to Friday 11 am from. Volunteering can take place to 3pm.

WHO GIVES YOU SPEEDY MOT TESTING 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH NO APPOINTMENT .. AND MORE?

LADIES. WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH A PUNCTURE?

`AII about Swindon'

MOTest will give you a FREE wheel change demonstration on your car.

Discover the wealth of organisations that make Swindon an interesting place at a voluntary & community fayre on Saturday 29 January, 1lam to 4pm, in the former railway museum on Faringdon Road.

Find out whether you can help an organisation with your talents Groups interested in setting up an information and recruitment stall should call 520592.

We'll show you how to remove your wheel trims, special locking nuts, alloy wheels, how your jack works and how to undo over-tightened wheel nuts and give you, free, a small kit of items to help you successfully change a wheel and keep your hands clean.

Avoid being stuck in the future, call Clive Lamdon to arrange a convenient time.

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Est. 1981

Your local garage door specialist • Up and over, roller and sectional garage doors • Remote operation doors • 2 years guarantee • Maintenance free doors • Superb security locking facilities Stockists of the largest range of spare parts in the South West of England Telephone 01793 513796 Maxwell House. Maxwell Street. Swindon email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Hawksworth Industial Estate, Swindon (close to the Oasis Leisure Centre) T

el: 61344& fq fMPrq

,

,

n1

I Nd15^fiW1 ESTNE

n E oassl

36 The Link Magazine • January 2005

All friends in Shaw

KLASS

Shaw's convenience store re-opened as a Tesco Express on 29 November with a donation to charity and the once threatened post office in exactly the same place.

Last April penex Yes sioners living

CONSTRUCTION

p

next

door

at

George Tweed Gardens joined with residents to protest at the threatened closure of the post office, including a picket of the

_I

'. C^ `

+^. _ '' ;- :.

t

= ^^^^Yr«„

Tesco superstore

EXTENSIONS CONSERVATORIES PORCHES WINDOWS & DOORS ROOFING FASCIA, SOFFIT AND GUTTERING

FOR THE FINAL TOUCH OF KLASS

CALL: 01793 613388 1 c

C

Li J

in Ocotal Way, forcing the company into a u- Alan Iles presents a cheque to Jill Pinkerton, centre, and turn.

Parkinson's Disease branch chairman Greg Pinkerton, with Now every- branch members from left, Flo Cole, Sandra Johnstone, Kath body is happy Clarke, John Bowsher, Elaine Ware and the Swindon & District branch of the Parkin- Kathy Kirby, 76, said, "our campaign really paid off; we've got a son's Disease Society is E500 better off after being chosen to receive a nice store and kept our post office." donation from the Tesco Trust.

Village centre concern Alan Iles, long-time manager of the Shaw shop, said he was very Shaw Residents' Association has pleased that Tesco had helped a calleduponSwindonCouncilplanlocal charity and had gone out of ners to prevent the unused site its way to respond to customer next to George Tweed Gardens at needs. "An extension has been built Shaw Village Centre from being at the back to provide more space intensively developed for more so that the post office can continue shops or housing.

The land will be put up for sale to use the same area as before."

George Tweed Gardens' resident by the council later this year.

L I Y CI ICDIC PkeCS'N ay

Manor Gardens

Bathroom

Warehouse UNIT 2 LYNTON ROAD, CHENEY MANOR IND EST SWINDON, WILTS SN2 2QJ 01793 619708

Lynton Road El

UK BATHROOM WAREHOUSE

CHENEY MANOR ESTATE

ED FA C3R

AS SEEN ON TV! I N JANUARY OUR SALE IS NOT JUST GREAT ITS MASSIVE!

Great Western Way

RAIL

ALL RAIDE EN IES WEL E PLt A& ERS ND ASSOCIATED `^ TRADES REQUIRED I NSTALLATION LEAS AND WEB SITE REFERRALS AVAILABLE NOW!

OPEN 8:30-6PM WEEKDAYS SATURDAY 10-4PM

The Link Magazine • January 2005

Poetry please Poems of no more than 40 lines, on any subject are invited by Swindon poetry magazine Pulsar for its annual competition.

It's open to anyone over 16 years Entries must be the poet's own of age and offers three prizes: 1st - work and not been previously pub£100, 2nd - £50, 3rd - £25. lished, or currently submitted for Winning and recommended another competition. There is no poems will be published in the set theme, poems may cover any June edition of Pulsar Poetry Maga- subject. All entries must be legible zine and winning/recommended and printed on A4 sheets. No enpoems will be displayed at try form required. www.pulsarpoetry.com The entry fee is £2.50 for the first The winners, (1st, 2nd, 3rd), will poem, £1 each for subsequent enalso receive a free, one year Pulsar tries. Cheques/postal orders Poetry magazine subscription - should be made payable to 'Ligden worth £12.

Poetry Society.'

Send entries with an attached Public Notice note stating competitor's name, adThe Lower Shaw Farm Children's dress and telephone number/eProject Annual General Meeting mail address to: Poetry Competitakes place on Thursday 10 Feb- tion Administrator, Pulsar Magaruary, 10am, at Lower Shaw zine, 34 Lineacre Close, Grange Farm.

Park, Swindon SN5 6DA. A creche will be available, to- Write to this addres for full rules getherwith a craft activity for adults! or go to the web site.

All are welcome to attend and to The closing date for entries is 28 put forward nominations for com- February. Results will be anmittee posts. nounced in March.

For details call Andrea Hirsch on 771080 or mail: childrensproject Lost cat @l owershawfarm.co.uk The project will run under 5s 18 months old, male, black, few sessions on the first Wednesday white hairs on chest, brown eyes. and Thursday morning of the month Last seen in Sharp Close, Shaw, from February, with Activity Days 3rd November. No collar, not mifor older children in February, cro-chipped. Reward for safe return. Call Alan on 877947 Easter. August. and October.

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery

DROVE

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Abbeymeads Village Centre Elstree Way Abbeymeads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home?

Local care for local people and their pets

Thameswood Small Animal Hospital

•

•i ^,._ *+s '

62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 52678 Open all day: Monday - Friday.

Saturday 9am - 11 am Consultations by appointment. Ample free parking

Pets At Home could be your answer Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

Whether you're away on holiday or just out at work all day, I can feed, walk and care for your pets.

Service tailored to suit your needs.

For more details phone Carole on 01793 702098

sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk

,ver^,^`r SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE

C

enrr"

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm 9.00am - 4.00pm

Saturday

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Paradise Pets Ltd

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon -

SI LL plo,

ets' needs

under one '

roof

Lots of rabbits and guinea pigs

Beautiful bearded dragons

24 hour Emergency Service ►

Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday?

professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals.

For offers, prices, advice & information, log on toourwebsite

indon's most modern small animal hospital, offering quality surgical and medical care at competitive price ithin a caring, friendly and professional environment.

PETS AT HOME

I provide a friendly caring and

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm Consulting hours by appointment: Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am; 3.30pm - 5pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: (01793) 522483

37

Ha reared baby parrots in stock

We are Wiltshire's largest independent pet store. If it's not in stock we can usually get it.

Always interested in buying cage and aviary birds and guinea-pigs.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm: Sat: 1 Oam - 5pm; Sun: 10.30am - 4pm

Tel: 01793 512400 Fax: 01793 512444

38 The Link Magazine • January 2005

Take a seat in our new showroom Swindon's dining centre Also stockists of office/study furniture and lounge furniture

Keeping a charity going is hard work and requires a range of skills and an eye for detail, particularly where there are paid staff and property involved.

And one well known West Swindon charity is _ making an appeal for more professional peo = • ple to come forward to =" J offer their help in a vol P untary capacity so that services can be directed 0o more effectively to families who need them.

Set up over 20 years ago the West Swindon Community and Family Project is run by a management committee of local people from an enlarged four bedroom house at 15 Gainsborough Way in Freshbrook, and employs 5 full time and 5 Getting ready for Christmas, from left to right, Alysson Cardis, Kal Badesha, Trish Rahrnan, Sarah part time staff.

Hundreds of families Battershall, Trudi Griffiths holding Kali Pinto, and individuals have Samantha and Chloe Nicholls, Nicki Hillier used the project over the years, receiving support through lives; they become more confident difficult times, day to day help in about tackling new things, through practical matters, and advice and a course at the project or somewhere information on welfare benefits else, or returning to work. Some and advocacy from advice point people may need help from other workers, agencies, and the Family Project is a Last year over 200 families used good place to get direction." the project, receiving personal oneHowever to keep up a high qualto-one help, taking part in a parent ity of service Tina says the project and toddler group or meeting other needs to be able to call on a wider parents at the weekly coffee morn- range of skills which she is sure are ing at the house. available in the community. "It's a Management committee chair- really positive place, buzzing with person Tina Mackie said she had energy, but we need to tap into the turned to the family project for abilities of the people who live in help and it had changed her life. West Swindon who may never "I've lived in West Swindon for need the Project, but could offer us about 25 years. 1 didn't know much their time and expertise. about the Project when I was busy, "Management committees have but that was before I became disa- to deal with so much employment bled. About four years ago I be- and safety legislation nowadays came totally fed-up with life be- that it can get beyond us. So we're cause I couldn't get out as I be- looking for people who could ofcame less mobile. I went to the fer us their background in human project to see if I could help in resources and training, health and some way as a volunteer, safety, and also IT systems."

"People come here feeling low To find out more or offer help, but after a time they are able to see call Alysson Cardis at the project the possibility of changing their on 871303.

•

CLASSIC FI[IISHEFS Unit 19, Bridgemead Close, Westmead Estate, Westlea, Swindon

Shaw &

North

Swindon

uy Tewkesb r 3

Way

a Police 1O

s^aue^ ^

Telephone: 01793 513155

Wes"ea

Westmead

es^aie

^ •

ca55

c

Furniture

Open Mon-Fri 9.30atn-4pm Sat 9-4pm

Gt Western Way & Town Centre

GA S TECH * Central heating installation and efficiency upgrades • Repairs to all appliances and central heating systems Servicing to central heating boilers Gas appliance fitting • Warm air heating • Gas appliance sales • Combination boilers

Project in search of professionals

Full preventative

maintenance, annual service, parts and labour cover to entire system

www.gastechwilts.co.uk

?Aeh1tO/1fA

i' ai

YOUR LOCAL PVC-U MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

Abbey backs stroke sufferers Why not let us handle everything from start to finish?

Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 OAS

Keen runners Gary Hancock and Eric Butler raised just under £986.50 for the Swindon Stroke Support Group by taking part in October's Swindon half marathon. As they both work for the Abbey Bank, their sponsorship has been doubled.

Gary is an active member of the group since his father had a stroke 18 years ago. His mother is chair of the organising committee.

For details of how the group provides friendship and a helping Cash for stroke group, Gary Hancock, hand, call Lin Hancock on 529693. right, with mum Lin, and Eric Butler

39

The Link Magazine • January 2005

Plastic now accepted for recycling After many complaints about the lack of opportunity to recycle plastic, people can now take them to the Household Waste Recycling Centre at Cheney Manor.

However only domestic plastic bottles should be put into the collecting bin: the ones used for milk, water, soft drinks, washing up liquid, shampoo and cleaning liquid.

Look for symbols indicating PET, HDPE, HDPE or HDPE. Swindon Council recycling officer Andrew Cook said other kinds of containers like margarine Andrew Cook

LANDSERVE loao^ ^^:'^e

^

,

Garden Maintenance lih & Landscaping ^4, p'% Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting -regular

Would you like to get more

GARDEN

from your garden ?

DOCTORSJ) Why not get some help from a plant specialist and medal winning gardener

LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Professional designs drawn to suit your needs/budget

•

maintenance

for free quotation on 01793 703306

or Mobile 07771 956294

Chelworth Landscapes

Call Anita Barratt ND Hort A / Hort

Fencing & Gurdern Maintenance

• Fencing and gates C/oseboarc/ trellis, pane/s. picket, chain/ink security etc

• Landscaping Shingle. paving. water features,

turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance Grasscutting. tree and shrub pruning. clearance etc For free quotation phone (01793) 750390 sl'ww.c/!c'/wol'lh/unc/scapes.co.uk

O Paving, Walling

0

Fencing, Patios

0

Gravel drives

"No job too small'!

For reliable service and quality work

Tel: 01367 710772

* Patios * Ponds * Turfing * Fencing * Garden maintenance * Garden design * Decking * Pergolas ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139

LAND ^Cr\PIING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

• D ri ves and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Tur fi ng and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas ,

Contact: 01793 692687 t 07711253508

PAVING Specialist paving &

landscaping contractors • Driveways • Patios • Fencing • Decking • Pergolas • Walling Quality work and innovative ideas

•

Anita Barratt Garden Design

G

A

N

LAWN & HEDGE CUTTING PATIO & TURF LAYING GENERAL GARDEN TIDY FENCE ERECTION, STAINING & MAINTENANCE Give your garden a makeover

Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 07818430556 e-mail: davidsmlth@garden-groomers.com www. garden-groomers.com

Mob: 0775 4245160

ACER LANDSCAPE SERVICES www.horticare.co.uk

01793 751403 • Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation

EDEN LANDSCAPES

Imaginative planting plans for

Plant supply and planting

No Job Too Small. All works insured.

Ca ll Martin Emer y J11 11ort.

>

whole or pa rt of your garden

Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting N Pruning

DAVID HAWKINS

TREE SURGEON All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning Fully insured

01793 752373 or 07802 752576

Free estimates 11 y ears experience

^our comprehensive website aw

01793 823257 07050 383060

All types of fencing installed pairs/ref su ts

^1

Made to measure gates

All pressure treated timbers Help & advice on all fencing & garden matters

Free estimates on 01793 855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. &aywn, Swindon

40

DIY PVC-U

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

from COMPLETE PROPERTY SERVICES (Formerly Merlin Property Services)

SOLUTION

•

Maintenance free •

UPVC fascia boards

cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

F11.1:1: SURVEY

NO DEPOSIT Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted £ 60 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication)

TRADE DIRECT WINDOWS LTD

• Doors • Conservatories • Fascia

+

Floor & wall tiling Painting & decorating

Professional workmanship at competitive rates

• Cladding

n Guttering n Fixings • Sealants

Carpentry

Please call us for a prompt free quotation. 'No job too small'.

10/I l Westmead Ind. Est., Swindon

Mobile: 07785 522377 Tel: 01793 616170

Tel: 01793 528686 Fax: 01793 432221

Philip Stone

MR. MR

Decorating Services The decorating service you can trust, est. 1986

LOCAL NEW

ELECTRIC.NOW o EN No call out or ove rt ime charges 24 Hour Emergency Service

.

Inspection & Testing

Rewiring & Extra points

B. Decorating

Outdoor Lighting & Sockets

Specialist in Wallpapering General Maintenance and odd jobs

1 fl

For a free quote

No job too BIG or too small

Telephone for a free quotation: 07774 - 208527 days or 870515 eves. e-mail: rapers@tinyworld.co.uk

e: philip.stone@decorator-services.co.uk www.decorato r- services. co. uk

Electric Showers & Heatine.

ADT Approved Distributot1 P VAR Free quotations & advice Gl'I R'ANPEE 0 '

t

.

"

g ^^ C c^

Friendly dependable servic

Major credit cards accepted National Company

.

Tel: 01793 729247 We

Tel: 01 793-871 032 Mobile: 0795 0017584 Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon

GREATFIELD BUILDERS Est. 1980

Electrical Repairs & Upgrades

Interior and Exterior Painting

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists Walling • Extensions • Alterations • Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work.

• Windows

'r Kitchens : Bathrooms Renovations + Alterations 'r Industrial maintenance Plumbing + Electrical UPVC Doors & Windows

PREMIER BUILDERS

Extensions, renovations and garages Plasterin 9

^

uPVC

windows and doors

—

0800 7311606 (24hr)

Free quotations ca//

www.mr-electric.co.uk

01793 772268

have the potter to stake things better"

Steve George (,

for Bathrooms and Kitchens Tel: 8744 80 Mobil e: 07860 76 0364

.^ Designs Ltd

Loft Conversion Specialists

j,

Complete bathrooms fitted Building work Plastering Electrics

• Tiling & Worktops

Plumbing

• Electrics & Plumbing

Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in conve rt ing all types of loft into quality living space.

Whether you need more space or wish to expand your house rather than moving, loft conversions are a cost effective way of increasing your living space without losing valuable garden area. We conve rt all types of lofts including modern W truss lofts.

Designed correctly loft conversions are an environmentally friendly, cost effective way of increasing living space.

Freephone 0800 9118695 www.acenti.co.uk

n (

:

1

Building work • Plastering

28 years experienced tradesman

If you need more living space for a bedroom, office, playroom or a place to relax, converted lofts make very attractive li ght extra rooms.

Free survery

Tiling

• Furniture

We are a professional engineering company, who make extensive use of computer aided design (CAD), to optimise the space and the head height within a loft and to accurately design stairs to fit into the complex geometry of a loft causing a minimum disruption to existing living space.

Howdens kitchens fitted

• Wooden flooring E'c APPROVED

House Medic uilding, Maintenance • Electric showers

n 8 &Repairs

• Power showers

• Replacementtaps

• GARAGE CONVERSIONS

• Exchange suites

• EXTENSIONS

• En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails

• INTERNAL ALTERATIONS

• Shower Trays And Cubicles

• REFURBISHMENTS

• Complete bathroom Makeovers

• MAINTENANCE WORK

• Insurance Work Undertaken

• INSURANCE WORK

'

/

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150 644( THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FOR A HEALTHIER HOME

41

CA I_ a ►11a nI^I ►^^ti

'4I'

Ashdown Electrical

,•

& Plumbing Services `°°

''

—H

K & L PLASTICS

From complete house renovation to replacing tap washers, no job too small

Family Run Business • Approved installers of UPVC Facsia, Soffits & Rainwater Guttering Systems • Flat Roofing Contractors • Property Repairs & Chimney Repairs

01793 349468 07979^r 267

•

Property Maintenance

• Kitchens and Bathrooms fitted • Electrical - extra sockets, rewires, fuse boards, security lighting, showers

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home

• Plumbing - bathroom suites, showers garden taps. appliance installation

NO JOB TOO SMALL! ALL WORK GUARANTEED FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE

call today on 01793 433990 07793 823862

A7

• Floors and Walls - ceramic tiling and laminates Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote

For a Quality Installation

For free & friend y advice on our 1, ^ full range of Gutter/Fascia systems professionally installed and guaranteed, CALL US ON

Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

Swindon 855700/855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

L J WILSON BRICKWORK Specialising in smaller works

3D

HOME Z IMPROVEMENTS

property se r v i ces

Ill your needs in one nurrcber

laminate floor laying decorating replacement doors minor plumbing gardening fencing hedge trimming tree lopping window cleaning if it's not listed, just ask call now for a free quote on

Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry, Extensions/Renovations and

much more Call Dave for further details or a free quotation Mobile: 07778 207977

01793 870350 07766 465752

Unique Services

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419 Email: brickwork@fsmail.net

Tim Harris

Peter Foyle

Mobile: 07736 740267 Mobile: 07788 776000 Telephone: (01793) 825456

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett.

I-

1

t

L

Ll 'i

t

eA Huge Choice l,

is

Let our"Made to Measure" replacement doors completely transform your kitchen

^^—

• NATHAN PERKINS LTI Windows Doors Porches Conservatories

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

^

Complete Kitchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms Plumbing & Heating Specialists

S

jfl5e

• Brickwork • Blockwork • Extensions • Porches • Garden walls • Patios • Brickwork maintenance • General property maintenance • Interior & exterior decoration • Free no obligation quotation • Other works arranged • Insured • Na job too small

'

® ► ► ► ►

Ocr range of replacement doors and drawer frcnts are available in solid wood, laminate and

———

vinyl wrapped finishes, and made to any size.

n Worktops ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►

,^^

We can offer a vast range of worktops including granite.

• xtra Units and Appliances ► ► ►

Full range of finishes

it:' .'

FENSA

i'

sc

0 years Independent trading

T 1

Insurance bac] guarantees

682271

Ii

• Complete Fully Fitted Kitchens available* • Guarantee ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► All

our work is insured and guaranteed.

Tel: 01793 887690 r Call Mobile:: 07798

/p

Additional cabinets can be "Custom Made-to-Measure" and we can also supply "Top Brand" appliances, sinks and accessories.

' for a

=EE

no obligation quotation 117

Grange KITCHENS

' 20

The Grange, Broad Town, Swindon SN4 7RE

Over 20 years ex ; fence

=t

42 BATHROOMS

es

BATHR OOM S

Free estimates

01793 72,5232 07748 9 1 33

DECORATOR

r

M & M PROPERTY SERVICES • Bathrooms &

Free estimates, fully insured

01793 431211

01793 723407 07990 847623

cinail: shirebathroomsCwaol.coun

• • • •

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing Established 22 years

For a professional finish telephone 07971347345 (mob) or 616933

FL OORING

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted UPVC windows Ft doors

general plumbing

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

• PLUMBING • TILING

Roofing ft building maintenance

• ELECTRICS • EN SUITES

FREE QUOTATIONS

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

or 07771 998924

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

Paul Comer

JAMES O'SULLIVAN

Paul I2hind

bathrooms

Complete Bathroom Installation

•

BUILDING SERVICES

re

kitchens fitted "' Ceramic tiling specialists Showers installed Towel radiators W/machine, d/washer, outside taps etc installed Electrical

flooring all taken care of

* All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

M RC

A1

BATHROOMS

t 1 Plumbing

Quality bathro ,. fitted - tiling, electrics,

1

K EVIN WHELAN

Professional

Painting and decorating Domestic & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES

interior/exterior

Interior & Exterior

For free quote call Paul on

Quality & Service

Tel: 01793 882093 Mobile: 07957 934536

High Quality Painting & Decorating

painter and decorator Personal one-to-one service Clean, reliable, quality work - no job too small

FOR FREE QUOTATIONS

CALL 01793

725699 OR 07734 779736

0777 5840236 or 321981

HEATING & PLUMBING I

GARAGE CONVERSIONS

ROB HALL

-aON

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet ^e MASTERFITTER

Call now for a free, at home consultation

07970 865883

01793 872531 DETAILS @

www swind . nlink.com

Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs, bathroom and power showers All aspects of plumbing

MOB: 07710 150644

SUN'S" MUD/ U U S:.. ! M U HOME MAINTENANCE

TO GET YOUR MESSAGE ACROSS I N SWINDON'S MOST CLOSELY PUBLICATION, CALL

SI@NSL

;INEMA ROOM • GAMES ROOM GYMNASIUM • OFFICE PLAYROOM • KITCHEN/DINER TEL: 01793 770088

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience

25 Kennet Avenue. Gr e en meadow

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

Tel:

t/tE /N... !

HOUSE/GARDEN

G R SERVICES

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

Tiling Interior and exterior painting and decorating Kitchen and bathroom installations

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992

Gardening/fencing/patios

Roof repairs Fascias & guttering

Friendly, reliable and competitive Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

01793 815254 R eg: 1e eo6

I

MAINTENANCE

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

All garden work Concreting paths

Building Guttering and

Patio repairs

fascia

Patio jet wash Repair or replace

All carpent ry External painting

small walls

Internal painting &

Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced ALL WORK GUARANTEED, FULLY INSURED

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Handymen Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170 (calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

t,l 1'1

43

CARPENT RY

CARPENTRY

z

D&l►^ Carrpew rry S irvke^ O Fitted bedrooms and kitchens O Replacement doors & staircases O Laminate floors O Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted

Offering Domestic & Commercial Carpentry Work from Professional Skilled Craftsman

2 TOIEs

CO T— -

T

Ila

Ll

For quality windows and doors Tel: 01793 331551 07775 621 764 / 07799 284998

FENSA See our advert on page I

H EATING & PLUMBI NG

J All 9 as appliances serviced, repaired P & installed O Warm air unit service, repair & installation O Landlord/moving house safety inspections O Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken O Central heating systems flushe d (powerflusn)

O Hot water systems descaled O Quote on request

024 hour call out O Natural gas & LPG qualified

\

TFR

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES r

All interior and exte ior maintenance problems solved

• Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbingg cladding g • Painting • Electrical Quality se rvice guaranteed Fully insured

Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.u k

is brrilton your satisfaction

Wood and laminate flooring

P`

All work fully insured Free quotations

ELECTRICIAN

Loft conversions Doors & windows * Stairs

Specialising in shop fitting A, All carpentry work

ELECTRICAL RVICES EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS â SECURITY LIGHTING / FIRE ALARMS â GARDEN LIGHTING / OUTDOOR SOCKETS - SHOWER AND COOKER INSTALLATION FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT COMPLETE RE-WIRING

Contact Andy: 01793 729354 / 07900 835116

ELECTR IC I AN

ELECTRICIAN

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards Free quotes 24hr call out facility

For gas central heating, bathrooms, showers and all other plumbing & heating work

CALL 01793 522579

HEATING & PL UMBING

R

PEARCE

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in p lumbin 9 work Y p

rates All work guaranteed

• Bathroom installations Reg 128966

Central heating

•

Bathrooms & showers Competitive

ma tt @mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk

For further details call Richard on

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

01793 879156

P LA STERING

Brian Jones Plastering Services *

External rendering

*

Plastering two coat

* Re-skimming *

Dry lining

* Coving

* New N or re p ai rs

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers

.

• No job too small

Reg: 67416

TEL

HEATING & PLU MBING

MOBILE: 07816 906437

y

SOCKETS AND LIGHTING TO SHOWERS AND RE- WIRES. FOR FREE ES77MATES AND ADVICE

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

MOBILE 07769 883717 TEL: 0179 3 876029

P. Heating & Plumbing

M.D. ELECTRICAL SERVICES

01793 495365 MOBILE 077438 74621

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

HEAT IN G & PLUMBING

Interior/exterior painting & decorating • Wallpaper hanging • Tiling • Replacement skirtingboards coving, picture rails • Laminate flooring fitted • And other carpentry & building services No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

Dave ody

& SHAS„

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

MAINTENANCE

•

* Fitted kitchens & bedrooms

Re9:2o2015

O British Gas trained

our reputation

cO

undertaken

J.

GLOUCESTER

^

Fitted bedrooms & Kitchens Laminate & Wood Flooring Supplied & Fitted Skirting & Archiframe • Door Hanging General Maintenance

Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

E G o, .

DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

Reg:2O3 55

or 07747 723606

PLUMBING

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

TILING

General plumbing services

CERAMIC TILING

• Radiators • Pumps • Tanks • Boilers • Cylinders • Burst pipe

^ t

• Taps

• Washing machine installed

FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call L Lee on 0771 8102 921

Tel: 01793 849010

A local service 0 by /J37JtTtnav x to ?

on 0778 8444 084

Mobile: 07976 572905

Tel: 01793 435392

or 01793 520526

Call Mike

SERVICE

44

ACCOUNTANCY

Day & Co. Chartered Management Accountants

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000 e-mail: info@dayand.co.uk

ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES_

_H.S.A. Accounting Services

Abacus Accounting Services

Aerial & Television Services

for all your accounting needs Our friendly and experienced staff are ready to help you with: VAT Returns • Tax Returns Payrolls • Construction Industry Partnerships • Sole-traders We offer a tailored service to suit all your needs Call us now for a free no obligation quote Tel: 01793 632249 info@hsaaccounting.co.uk www.hsaaccounting.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Annual accounts, tax returns, VAT returns, payroll, company taxation, book-keeping Our experienced team is headed by a Chartered Accountant with 16 years' experience in dealing with all aspects of small business

accounts and taxation.

We offer FIXED FEES OUT OF HOURS meetings and a FREE INITIAL consultation.

Call Neil on (01793) 873700 e: abacusaccounts@yahoo.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

•

TV & FM aerials • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Signal amplifiers

No call out

a

charge

All work guaranteed Tel: 01225 706379 Mobile: 07774 943 783

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Same day, local service wherever possible ' Washing Machines

• Most leading brands

Twin Tubs, etc.

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

• Guaranteed repairs • Same day service

793 70 40 11

No call out charge

A SUDS

COMPUTER SUPPORT

IT 2-U•COm

COMPUTER SUPPORT Master's PC Repairs

• Computer running slow?

• Need some advice?

• Looking to upgrade?

• Equipment required?

• Virus and Internet attack questions?

• Wishing to backup?

MG X60 LPG^LDG BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST

Why go anywhere else?

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

4:

; Free home & business visits -i= Jargon free advice & support = Upgrades/repairs :i= All parts & labour guaranteed Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0798 001 5590

01793 887883 / 07947 831378 www.it-2-u.com

DRAINS

Corn

PC Suppo rt straight to your door

contact@it - 2 - u.com

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Pro - R

•)-

& STORAGE I

ABBEY MOVE

REMOVALS & STORAGE ,

5

5F5Y 10 WFFY S GAY P

REMOVALS

N Making IT workfor you T: 01793 778 034 M: 07788 586 779 E: info@ringview.co.uk www.ringview.co.uk

Tel: 01793 435392

SECURITY SYSTEMS

SECURITY SYSTEMS

n^

"We're

bfggar

yy

than

^n

we

saun0f

Teel: 01793 772888

crown

nerWnss -

Security

Burglar alarms

Single Items / Full House Long / Short Distance Storage Specialists Packing Service Late Bookings Tel (01793) 727307

Mob 07811 188564 WWW.ABBEYMOVE.CO.UK

THE MAN WITH A VAN (Est 1993) • 24hrs - 7 days a week • Single items to a full house • 8 different size vehicles • Disposal of unwanted items

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 Email: ashgroupl @btinternet.com

• No call out charge

ssatb u

^^^///ppp+

jfYJ ^T^)

• CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out

Access controls CCTV • Fire alarms

Installed, repaired, maintained

secur ity systems ltd Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

• ecru • Access Control &

•

24 hour monitoring for police response

For details call Doug Marshall on 433999

lutes rev.

• Intruder Alarms Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitorin

ssaib

email:

45

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

CHRIS PAYNE

AIRPORT TRAV EL

MAGIC SAT

AIRPORTS Connect Ltd

(European Satellite Specialists)

AERIALS

You've tried the rest, now try the best, from aerials to motorised satellite systems.

If we can't do it, nobody can.

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS Satellite TV

• Official satellite viewing cards • Free estimates • On call until 1 opm 7 days a week • Free sport • Free movies • Free adult • All work guaranteed

* Sky & digital terrestial * Extra TV, telephone & electrical points * Storm damage Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0777 6236415

AERIAL SERVICES

s"

ARCHITECTURAL

B-K ARCHITECTURAL Complete design, plans, and planning service for New build Extensions Conversions Refurbishments

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

Can't face doing the books after a hard day's n

Cff Whitewa,^

work.7 Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

tel: 321943

Tel: 01793 700637

^$HOPNOWQO

IRONING

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured Nc^a° • Quickly usable You'll be amazed how affordable it is ...call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Ironing a chore? Not anymore!!

We come to you at home or work!

Providing a reliable 24 hour door to door service at a price you can afford FREE collection & delivery FREE garment packaging

Tel: (01793) 321665 www.LHIroning.co.uk email: info@LHlroning.co.uk

SKIP HIRE

AM!

SHIPS

2.5 yd: £55 2 yd: £45 3 yd: £65 4 yd: £75 All inclusive 5 yd: £85 5 days given to fill skip Freephone 0800 - 387613 Tel: 731610 8am - 6pm

Competitive prices

el: 7020:-

OVEN CLEANING

Creaseless Ironing Services One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever!

Free pick up and delivery back to your door the next day.

All items delivered on hangers

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

Call Karen on 01793 822659 or 07843 690720

also undertaken

smoke free environment

SKIP HIRE

BASSETI

SKIPS LTD If all that clutter is getting you down call Bassett Skips for the best prices in town.

O Prices start from just £50, all incl, for 4 days hire (private) O 2, 4 and 6 tonne with drop dowr doors for easy loading O No hidden costs or charges

01793 84 89 51

I SIGMA

COMPUTER SOLUTIONS NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363 sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

REMOVALS

WHITE VAN MAN

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills

and wrapped in cellophane Guaranteed animal and

COMP UTER SUPPORT

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternei co rn

Domestic Oven Cleaning Service I

£51 Ironing est 1998

Reliable travel for holiday makers

Tel: (01793) 706921 Mobile: 07765 224637

For prompt service,

IRONING

Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

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

Tel: 01793-812738

Single items Full house Long/short distance Disposal of unwanted items House clearance Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £15 Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07780 946267

VAN HIRE

DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE

3

Tel: 820000 auz 4oca8 ,Reatae

o ^iacr+y

Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

Cars • Vans • Luton Tail-Lifts Radio de-coding while you wait Open daily: 8.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret

46 The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ January 2005

Registered Childminder Childminder in Taw Hill area has places available from January 2005 Call Tina 01 793 701683 for more information

Flexible, friendly, negotiable rates 8 years experience. One week free Available Monday to Friday for school drop-ads from 6am to 9am, and pick-ups from 3pm to 9pm Also available all day on Monday, Thursday, Friday, weekends & late evenings

Call 07957 166529 or 871466

DISC SERVICES

We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos Phone for a leaflet or advice

Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758 H.Q. Bath PO Box 2079 Manvers Street. Bath BA1 3TJ

ANNA ELISABETH

Beautiful handmade wedding stationery Individually designed stationery created with exquisite materials Contact Anna on 07717 775577 or annaelisabethdesigns@yahoo.co.uk www.annaelisabeth.co.uk

PIANO & THEORY LESSONS

1 ,^

Relaxed and friendly atmosphere Beginners welcome. All ages Graded exams - not compulsory

End of term musical evenings Contact Mrs G Bush CT ABRSM Swindon 873012

DECOTEX Y.D. Upholstery Repairs & Recovering

Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive prices

Challenging mission Chris Chorley, a member of Holy Trinity Church in Shaw, describes

three weeks working as a volunteer in Sierra Leone last year Until two years ago, civil war had not seen maintenance since raged in the country once known the 1930s. as the 'Jewel of West Africa,' Time was also spent talking to devastating its infrastructure and the residents who had become inhousing, making it one of the poor- stitutionalised. They really enjoyed the interaction and smiles apest countries on the continent. peared on their othAs a supporter of erwise gloomy faces. the worldwide ChrisThe Anastasis, one tian charity Mercy of the Mercy Ships Ships, which supplies hospital ships, was medical assistance moored in Freetown, and other help to Afand provided volunrica and South teer doctors and America, I decided to nurses who helped support them in a hundreds of patients practical way by joinsuffering from cleft ing a mission chalpalates, club feet, lenge team. cataracts, polio, It was a tremenburns, and also dous culture shock to women who suffered be there: the heat, the complications during noise, the poverty, the childbirth. These peocruelty and the smell ple are ostracised beof burning kerosene Chris with a hospital cause of their delamps were overpoworderly and civil star formities and probering. The divide becasuality Sullamen lems and could not aftween the rich and the poor is shocking. If you have ford any treatment.

It was physically and emotionmoney you can get anything. If you haven't, then life is very hard. ally demanding but nevertheless a We spent most of our time reno- wonderful adventure which has vating the King George VI Coro- reaffirmed my support for the renation Home for the Elderly out- markable work done by Mercy side the capital Freetown. Previ- Ships. www.mercyships.org.uk ously a British Army barracks, it

47

The Link Magazine • January 2005

2005 — where now? asks Rev. David Earnshaw of Freshbrook Evangelical Church A British ambassador in Washington was once asked by a television reporter some time before the event, what he would like for Christmas.

At first, modestly like to see happen this courting no favours, he year — the ability to redeclined to say, but, trace our steps and undo when pressed, said he some of the wrong would like a small box things that we have done of crystallized fruit. in our lives.

On Christmas Eve Humanly speaking it the interview was is impossible. The poet shown, along with sevwas right when he eral others who had wrote: 'The moving finger writes been asked the same and having writ question. The French ambassador said that he would Moves on; nor all the piety nor wit like world peace and new agree- Shall lure it back to cancel half a line, ments between warring nations. Nor all thy tears wash out a word of it.'

Jesus Christ came into this world, The German ambassador said he wanted an upsurge in international not so much to turn the clock back, trade. The British ambassador but to give us a new life with which wanted a small box of crystallized to enjoy the rest of our time down fruit — on the night he looked fool- here and beyond. That is why, as a church, we are running our third ish.

It is hard to believe that we are in Alpha course at the beginning of a another new year. It only seems a new year: to say to the people of few months ago that we were get- West Swindon, why not make it a ting ready for the start of the new priority this year to find out about the man who said 'I have come that millennium. you might have life, and have it to the I wonder what you would like to see happen in the forthcoming full' (John 10 v 10).

We can survive life even if we year. World peace? There is evidence for 8,000 peace treaties don't get the fulfilment of our persigned between 1,500 BC and 1860 sonal dreams (crystallized fruit or AD. Will future peace treaties be not), but we cannot exist without any more meaningful and lasting? the Author of Life at the centre of our lives.

Probably not!

• The Alpha course A few years ago, on holiday in is designed to look Heidelburg, Germany, I saw a at those key issues clock on which a ll the numbers in life in an everywere in reverse order, so even ` A day Christian way. though the fingers went round the See the advert on right way, time went backwards. page 2 for details.

If only. Maybe that's what we'd

Preparing in the right spirit Forty children aged 6 to 12 years enjoyed an activity day in December organised by members of the Emmanuel United Reformed Church to help them understand the real meaning of Christmas.

Apart from discussions about the Christmas message activities included glass painting and making table decorations, tree decorations, wind-up toys and cards. The highlight for some was a tree decoration relay race.

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 770568 partnershipofficeHbtopen world, corn

Administrator needed to provide administrative and secretarial cover for the West Swindon Partnership of Churches

Evangey,,c O0 W,,,sley Road ^p

m

14 hours per week including some evening work

,=.n° 'a

rm

8

building with people

Sunday services are at I Oam & 6.30pm

For details and an application form call Jan Partridge on 534992, or the partnership

For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: o ffice@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org

office on 874221 partnershipoftice@btopenworld.com

,ift of God

is Eternal Life" (Romans 6 ' 23)

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

\

Meeting at Greenmeadow Prima ry School

a,ee nm

w

Primary School

Daft Avenue

Whttwo rt h Rd

0

B4006

•

Community Dividend Scheme A minimum of 1 % of the Society's profits 0

__

1 4.-'

-

are returned to projects to benefit the

local community through the Community Dividend Scheme.

If you think a project you know of could qualify for a grant of up to £1,000, call:

A £7,000 Co-op community dividend grant has he/pod Peatmoor School instal/ CCTV cameras to cover its community facilities. to help reduce expensive break-ins and damage. Caroline Bow/es. community facilities coordinator. /eft is pictured with members of the 3o Jingles music and ma vement group and centre.

Julie Whillacker, supervisor of the Co-op Swift Shop at Peatmoor Village Centre

call 0800 435902 for more information

Oxford, Swindon & Glouceste

MANOR

Golf & Gym Complex

COUNTY GROUND L^festy1e

HEALTH 0

HYDRO

CYOf t sports centre

C c n r, e

LINK CENTRE

^

oorcan H4roN RECREATION COMPLEX

Swindon Services SwinDon BOROUGH COUnCIL