January 2006 Swindon Link

No. 284 January 2006 • Circulation 25,000

the positive newsforce in Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

Thank you to all who helped Sally Lawrence get her new power wheelchair, left.

See page 18 Happy New Year

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See page 47

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The Link Magazine • January 2006

Fishermen rebuild their lives Twelve months ago South Asia was reeling from the devastating after effects of the monstrous waves that struck coastlines all around the Indian Ocean following the underwater earthquake off Indonesia on Boxing Day 2004.

The response from the public to "I've been watchGreendown's contribution was the death and destruction so soon spent on a powered fibre fishing ing the recent proafter celebrating Christmas was re- boatin the coastal village of Nizam- grammes looking markable, directly after the Tsu- patnam, one of 130 fibre and back at the Tsunami nami and in the months afterward. wooden boats in a new fishing fl eet and how people have Greendown Community School to replace the craft that had been been rebuilding their pupils organised a series of events swept away. lives. We were all reand in-school stalls which raised Not only were the fishermen ally pleased to raise £1,357. This was matched by the given the means to support their the money for the Rotary Club of Swindon Thames- families again, the local economy boat." down which arranged for the funds was stimulated as a result of boat From the July Link. Roto go directly to the affected com- building. tary Club members munities via the Rotary Club of Looking back over the year Year David Duke and Paul India.

9 Greendown pupil Amy Snook Skelton with Greendown said, "everybody was really pupils, standing, Tom amazed and shocked by the Tsu- Vose, Sian Gannon, nami. Everybody in my school front, Amy Snook and wanted to do something to help.

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The Link Magazine • January 200 6

Welcome JAIl

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Given the natural calamities that hit the planet last year, and the hysterical media warnings of worse to come, Happy New Year sounds a bit hollow.

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Food Bank launched Christmas shoppers at the North Swindon Centre generously donated over 3 tons of canned and dried goods at the official launch of the Swindon Food Bank on 8 December.

The bank distributes emer gency food to families in crisis, ii referred by doctors, clergy, family centres and advice points.

The Mayor and Mayoress helped volunteers collect and sort the donations.

In response to shopper support, Food Bank will return to Asda Walmart in February.

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(Photo: Alex Ogle)

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Is it time for the Angels of Swindon to suspend cynicism?

The Bishop of Swindon's observations in the December Link of what could be described as the 'Swindon condition' were instructive.

Reflecting on the Book of Rev- don because they did not address elations in the Bible, he described the cynicism of the population to how the Angel of a place or com- the way the town was managed.

But is it time to consider how munitycharacterisesattitudesand patterns of behaviour - the'Angel' positive light shines from the anbeing the spirit of a place or a gel rather than concentrating on the shadows under its wings? group of people.

Swindon Council has never satAs a newcomer he is well placed to look both at the town and into isfied the expectations upon it thesoulsofitspeople.Hehasfound when it became a unitary authorso much that is good, but since his ity in 1997. But 8 years later, the arrival last June, he has become latest Government inspection reaware of the insecurities and the port on it's performance highlights low self-esteem that Swindon col- improvement in the way the town lectivelyhasforitself,perpetuated is managed and how services are by many residents who believe the delivered, see page 4.

Not to everybody's liking, the criticism that the place is a dump, a cultural desert and a heartless site for a university at Coate has been firmed up, see page 5, and urban sprawl.

This is marked by a prickly sen- there is the prospect of thousands sitivity to criticism by others and of new houses being bu i It on green distorted campaigns to promote fields around the town.

And, the council still seems to be pride in the town.

Some of this can be tracked back intent on turning the town centre's to Swindon Council's ill consid- only large indoor space into ofered bids to become a city at the fices. See page 7.

There is improvement to be had, end of the 1990s.

The Link said at the time the pro- but with the tenth anniversary of posals were not sufficiently the town gaining unitary status 16 grounded in the reality of Swin- months away, there is hope.

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The Link Magazine • January 200 6

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Council starts to get things right Two years ago Swindon Council was regarded as a basket case by Government Inspectors from the Audit Commission in respect of its leadership, management and service delivery.

Sir Mike Pitt added, "we know After awarding the council 2 who worked in Social Services to some services still have room for stars out of a possible five in De- get it up to scratch.

The inspectors say there is more i mprovement. We will continue to cember, they believe Swindon is now catching up and is on the way to do in areas such as waste man- i mprove and residents will see the to being a well run local authority. agement and children's social care. changes for themselves in the fuCouncil leader Mike Bawden ture as we introduce our contact Their report says: '(Swindon) has achieved signifi- said the assessment is a huge boost centre, open our first-stop shop cant improvements in its priority for everyone in Swindon. "The last and start building a fantastic new services and in areas that are im- two years have been tough so it is central library."

Prime Minister Tony Blair, reportant to the public, wonderful that our determination 'Results for education, adult so- to deliver and turn things round is sponding to a question putby Swindon South MP Anne Snelgrove in cial care and benefits are now much now reaping results. improved, as a result of the coun"We've gone from being one of Parliament congratulated the council focusing on aspects that have the poorest performing councils in cil for the improvements. He said, been performing poorly in the the country to one of the fastest "it shows exactly how with the right i mproving in just 18 months. I want level of investment and funding and past.'

The inspectors recognise that the to say a huge thank you to every- partnership between local and cenappointment of interim Chief Ex- one at the council for all their tre- tral government a real difference ecutive Sir Mike Pitt from highly mendous hard work and determi- can be made to the quality of life of rated Kent County Council in May, nation to deliver the services that local communities." www.audit-commission.gov.uk followed by radical restructuring local people deserve." of the top tiers of management, has given the council a strong sense One star to be proud of of direction and a focus on provid- After three years with no rating at all, Swindon Social Services has been ing high quality, value for money given one star by the Commission for Social Care Inspection to reflect services. improvements in service delivery made over the last 12 months. It also This is supported by commit- recognises a commitment to further improvements has been embedded ment from councillors to meet 50 in the culture of the department which has been under the management service delivery promises by 2010. of Kent County Council.

The last year has seen a reduc- Coun lace Dobie, cabinet leader member for Social Services, with Jan Stubbins, ing role from outside contractors, director of adult services, Hilanl Pitts, director of Childrens' Services, and such as Tribal, who took over the Toot/gill mum Patricia Hindle and her daughter Saskia education departmen earsandalssomanagersf omtKent

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"The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. www.swindonlink.com It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984, Distribution in North Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Tel: (01793) 608840 Swindon commenced in January 1994."

Editorial: The contents of The Link are protected Editorial copy date for by copyright. Use of advertisements in February: 9 January printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Published: 28 January sought permission. Articles and photoarc:6 Februaryy Co forMarch: Copy graphs require similar authority 3istered in England 5 Wales. No. 4513027, Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungedord. Serbs, RG17 ODL. Printed by pap. Telford

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ January 2006

Coate site destined for university But if no uni, no houses says council leader The Gateway site, between the Great Western Hospital, Coate Water and the M4, has been endorsed by Government Planning Inspector David Fenton as the place where a 10,000 student campus for the University of Bath in Swindon could take place.

In his report of the inquiry into the fact that 1,800 houses will be the Swindon Borough Local Plan, the maximum permitted, and they David Fenton says the benefits of will not be considered part of the promoting a high quality univer- 2011 Structure Plan. This means sitypresence inSwindon outweigh developers cannot argue that the disadvantages of allocating the building must rush ahead to meet land, but he recommends greater housing allocations. protectionforwildlife and the sur- The University of Bath still has rounding landscape, and calls for to secure Government funding to an increased buffer zone between build the campus. Work is unliely development and Coate Water tocommencebefore2008withfirst completions in 2010 at the earliest.

Country Park.

The land for the campus is being given to the University of Bath by property developers Persimmon and Redrow who plan up to 1,800 houses and a business park, as well as shops and a primary school. However council leader Mike Bawden said: "the council made the decision to support the university project, but if the university's plans founder we will strongly oppose any plans to only put housing at Coate. This view is endorsed in the report. The message is simple â&#x20AC;&#x201D; if no university, then no housing."

He added, "we are also very pleased that the buffer between any development and the country park should be increased; we will push for the maximum."

The inspector wants views of the Downs from Coate Water protected which means the council's planning committee will have to consider how high buildings can be to minimise visual intrusion. can Saunders of the Save Coate Campaign which collected over 20,000 signatures on a petition objecting to the Gateway proposals said the campaigners were bitterly disappointed by the inspector's ruling. However they take heart from the increased buffer zone next to the park, around local nature reserves and along significant streams. She draws attention to

Planning to 2011

The Swindon Borough Local Plan is a blueprint for all future development and contains detailed planning policies for housing, employment, retail, leisure, transport and community facilities. The full report can be downloaded from: www.swindon.gov.uk / inspectors_ report. pdf

Trust fights to hang on to Jefferies' heritage The newly formed Jefferies Land Conservation Trust held its first general meeting on 10 December.

Formed in September in response to the proposed development near Coate Water, the trust's aim is to protect and enhance the special landscape which inspired Richard Jefferies, one of England's most individual writers on nature and the countryside, who was born and bred at Coate, where his old house stands as a museum.

Now that the decision to build on much of the land has been made the trust will be closely monitoring detailed planning applications to ensure the spirit and recommendation of the planning inspectors rulings are followed.

To join the Jefferies Land Conservation Trust call Jean Saunders on 783040. www.jefferiesland.org.uk

5

6

The Link Magazine • January 2006

Anti-stadium campaigner says

Purton House Church End Purton, Swindon

town should get behind football club

It's a funny old world, or should I say a funny old Swindon, writes Alan Hayward. Having been heavily Tel: 0 1 793 772287 involved with the successful Shaw Forest campaign to stop a football stadium and commercial development on the former landfill site which has been developing as Shaw Forest Country Park, I now find )4ave 4 Ina( myself campaigning again - this time in favour of Swindon Town's proposed new stadium.

Heppy to the latest STFC F The Shaw issue opened my eyes community and He6^ fletzv'ear No proposals with to the planning problems in Swin- heritage aspects as •up as it some concern, Call for details about our don and subsequently I have be- well as the millions on the is reliant come involved in several p lannin g of p ounds of in Organic Box Scheme sale of council come that are spent related bodies and campaigns.

Vegetables • Fruit • Meat • Eggs owned land to genHowever, the stadium issue is in Swindon by vis crate the funds for iting supporters. unfinished business for me.

Deliveries & drop off points in Swindon, ' the stadium redeCirencester, Wootton Bassett, Broad Ironically, since Since June 2004 I have become Hinton. Marlborough. Wroughton velopment. increasingly aware of the importance October, I have In turn, the club www.purton-house.co.uk of the football club to the town. Not taken my children has hinted that it i ' just in terms of the game, but in its to every home may well look to League One match move out of the and we have had a borough if a solugreat time shouting ttO LtCttottt8 Cubi tion cannot be 'come on Swindon!'

A stadium rede- Alan Hayward leads the campaign found.

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER As we all know, velopment is vital for Shaw Forest in 2004 A great way to meet new and interesting people the town centre is if STFC is to conWhether you're looking for friendship, love or a great social life join tinue to exist. Thirty home match badly short of a heart. Losing the days a year simply does not pro- club would be the equivalent of call us now on (01793) 698087 vide enough income to run a busi- having a ventricle ripped out. So www.cupidintroductions.com No joining fee when you bring this advert ness and additional revenue now I find myself campaigning to streams through other facilities are 'Keep the Town in Swindon.'

Shaw was not the right place for needed for the club to survive.

Following a council motion in- a football stadium, but the County y spired by the Supporters' Trust a Ground definitely is.

CLCIII bGClIl I would encourage all to try a year ago, Swindon Borough Council committed to work with the home game. Despite performLondon trained mobile hair stylist club to find a way of redeveloping ances, there is a great spirit there.

For a visit call Sue on 07796 432 700 For more information, go to: the County Ground site. Unfortuor email sue@thecuttingclub.com nately, the council has responded www.KeepTownInSwindon.org.uk

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7

It's the people who make places Are you a home bird, a mall walker or a hoodster, or perhaps you enjoy a little urban safari? According to a recent study we can all be described as users of one of ten types of public space, writes Lucy Proctor.

A great idea in the report for Yet Swindon suffers from 'public cities across Britain is reclaiming space amnesia,' according to a study the night-time economy. Increasbypolicythink-thank Demos. ing binge drinking now characterThe report by Melissa Mean and ises alcohol fuelled 'monoculture' "`Charlie Tims People Make Places: ' in town centres. By extending the ° G ro wing the Public Life of Cities, — +s41J 77 opening hours of shops, cafes, looks at Swindon, Cardiff and Presmuseums, restaurants and theaton, to evaluate the state of public tres to become more like a Euro* space in Britain today. peancitywouldincreasediversity They raise some pertinent and attraction after dark. points. One is the continued emIt's not all doom and gloom. The '3 barrassment of the town's Porta report bestows one honour on kabin central library; another is Swindon. Without irony it is rethe description of Swindon as a ,; ferred to as a city throughout. 'two-speed' town, where commuters race in and out from richer rural villages. Young people feel '^ r particularly cramped in Swindon, down. The Old Railway and their need for somewhere to A public space Swindon Council seems keen to shut Museum on Fleet Street is the only large hall in the town centre. It's a great place hang out is interpreted as antifor jugglers - see page 28. Drum away the bad spirits - see page 19. social behaviour.

From interviews with 500 peo- ping malls and connecting walk- bottom of town - old compared to pie in the town the report con- ways that run through office the new suburbs. The study also cludes that Swindon residents feel blocks.' There is an element of truth claims that our country parks 'feel theirpublicspacesaresignificantly inthis-buttheauthorshavemissed just out of reach on the fringes of less'shared' than people from Pres- important meeting points like the the town.' Yet West Swindon peoton or Cardiff. Of the three Swin- town gardens or the Old Town plecan'timaginesummerwithout Lydiard Park-wellconnected, free don has the youngest and richest railway path.

A couple of factual errors dent and undergoing improvement. population, the least number of Coate Water is praised by the non-white British residents, the the study's credibility. Swindon most gay people, and is the only residents are described as being authors as a real public space, profearful of the Old Town, an area viding playfulness and beauty, the place without a university, The report says that Swindon hardly renowned for trouble. Per- vast North Swindon Centre is also centre has 'no obvious public haps people were referring to the singled out as a gathering point, spaces other than its covered shun- heavy concentration of bars at the particularly the Asda restaurant.

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The Link Magazine • January 2006

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Awaiting the North Swindon play area on Groundwell Ridge

People moved into their new homes aware of the plans for a play area on the hillside overlooking Abbey Meads village centre.

Indeed a number of parents took part in discussions with Swindon Council officers on the design and range of equipment to be included.

They asked for one play area split into different sections with equipment for different age groups.

Lisa Hume was a member of the Groundwell residents' committee which came together to look at the plans. She said, "we were all excited by the prospect of a play area which we could visit on the way to school and on the way home, but as soon as the residents' group disbanded, things slowed down."

Alison Carr from Abbey Meads, who lived at Groundwell for two years, said, "we moved in thinking that there would be a nice play area and nothing happened."

Dave Hunt, Parks and Amenities Officer at Swindon Services said that two play areas are due for completion by April 2006, one for children aged three to six and the other for ages seven to fourteen.

The senior area will include a range of equipment to present a challenge even to older children.

There will be a smaller grassed area for ball games. Some 17,0000 trees and shrubs are being planted on the ridge over the winter.

Mr Hunt explained that the delay in completion was due to the challenges presented by the sloping site. "We have had to level the site by using gabions (baskets of stones) and this has taken longer than hoped. Also we were not satisfied with the quality of the first delivery of gabions and there was a delay whilst they were replaced."

On learning that two play areas are being built, Alison Carr expressed her disappointment that after a consultation with parents, the council appears not to have listened. "Parents specifically asked for one play area as it wi ll be difficult to supervise children in two places."

Alison is reserving judgement on the promise of an April opening. "I'll believe it when I see it," she said.

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The Link Magazine • January 2006

9

Graffiti back on West Forum agenda for 9 January Councillors in West Swindon are Theyarealsofrustratedwiththe private companies responsible for street furniture like post and pouch boxes, telephone boxes, electrical cabinets, as well as bus shelters who fail to deal effectively with graffiti and vandalism, The topic of graffiti attracted a large number of residents to the West Swindon Forum in July and local councillors were told to get

incensed by the claim that damage on top of the problem.

But coun Steve Wakefield, Toothill & Westlea, is fed up with excuses from owners of the 'graffitipods'thatlitterstreets."Myjob takes me all over the country and I am surprised how free of tagging other places are. Here the companies install their equipment then ignore their appearance.Likemany residents I'm really angryhow util-

caused by graffiti is now in the region of half a million pounds. ity companies don't seem to be whole. We all should send a clear message to the vandals that their bothered."

Freshbrook and Grange Park actionsarenotonlyanti-social,but councillor Peter Greenhalgh says illegal and perpetrators will be he is constantly being contacted punished" Councillor Nick Martin, Shaw & about graffiti. "I receive regular emails and phone calls from people Nine Elms believes schools in fed up with seeing graffiti appear- Swindon and North Wiltshire have ing everywhere. This issue has to a responsibility for educating be tackled, by the police, by the young people. He said, "I have council, butby the community as a had reports of children as young as 8 using felt tips on park equip-

ment."

West wheelies in place for the longer term

The fortnightly wheelie bin trial to 10,000 homes in West Swindon is to continue in the next financial year Plans to calm road - alongside the weekly collection of recyclable materials. outside school However, whilst there has been a willing reThe November forum discussed sponse to the recycling initiatives, only 85 per cent improving pedestrian safety and of households are using the wheelie bins properly, reducing traffic speeds and conwhich the council admits is not good enough. gestion on Beaumaris Road outThe Waste Management Team still wants feedside Toothill's Oliver Tomkins Inback from householders where black bags are pilfant and Junior Schools. ing up so that problems can be dealt with as quickly Outline proposals for traffic as possible. Tel: 463463. calming will be discussed on 9 January.

Weekly wheelies to clear festive rubbish Wheelie bins will be emptied weekly until Friday 6 January alongside recycling boxes.

If your collection was due on Monday 26 or Tuesday 27 December, bins and boxes should be put out on the following week- on either Monday 2 or Tuesday 3 January.

In areas where paper and card recycling is collected fortnightly Christmas Day and Boxing day collections will take place on Wednesday 28 December.

Lorraine Stacy from Freshbrook with Oliver and Rose, picking up another recycling box from Bob Fisher at a recycling roadshow held at the West Swindon Centre in November

The West Swindon Forum provides a place for residents to meet and discuss community concerns with the eight councillors representing the area. All are invited to attend the next meeting which takes place in the Link Centre Community Suite on Monday 9

January, 7.30pm.

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10 The Link Magazine • January 2006

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Employee health checks on offer Swindon Well Woman Centre at the Health Hydro in Milton Road is offering to help local employers keep their staff fit and healthy in 2006 with their health screening package.

It includes a range of health Foley said, "currently the Well checks, as well as advice and infor- Woman Centre is relying heavily mation which is beneficial both to on reserves to maintain existing levels of services. Unless we reemployer and employee, In addition, by taking up this ceiveadditionalfundswewillhave offer, the local business commu- to consider cutbacks."

The centre currently provides nity can help support the work of three sessions a week for women the Milton Road Centre.

Since Swindon Council cut fund- and one for men. A solicitor is availing to the centre four years ago, the able once a month and a support Well Woman Centre has tried to worker is available at all the sesmaintain all its free services and sions offering free, confidential also develop new income earning support for non-medical problems.

For session times and health activities.

Centre administrator Elizabeth screening information call 511064.

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Making lunch tasty Governors at Brook Field Primary School are in the process of deciding whether to reopen the school kitchen, after its previous meal provider quit the job last Easter.

In the meantime children have said Pat had provided excellent been bringing in sandwiches and support to the school and had given getting help from Sainsbury's nu- children lots of good ideas to try tritionist Pat McDonald, who lives new sandwich fillings and encouragement to eat more fruit and vegin Grange Park.

Working with different age etables.

Governors will choose a dinner groups, Pat has children making sandwiches using a variety of in- provider in January, after the cost teresting ingredients and combi- of upgrading kitchen equipment nations and trying out raw vegeta- has been considered. They hope to relaunch a hot meal service in the bles and salads.

Headteacher Roger Nicholas summer term.

Enjoying sandwich variety, Pat McDonald with Brook Field Year 3s

Go to GWH for out of hours help

ASHINGTON WAY PHARMACY ASHINGTON WAY, WESTLEA. TEL: 616840

Open: Monday. Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 8.30am - 6.00pm; Wednesday: 8.30am to 5.30pm; Saturday 9.00am to 1.00pm Available at Sheep Street, Highworth. Tel: 01793 762220 Skin care range by Skin Doctor Vichy fine fragrances and ear piercing

Two care services have been brought together at the Great Western Hospital to provide emergency health support.

The GP Out of Hours Service formerly based at Shrivenham Road has set up in the Clover Centre at the GWH, located between the main entrance and Accident and Emergency Department.

This will allow people with less serious conditions to be seen appropriately by GPs and specially trained nurses, drawing upon hospital staff and facilities if needs be.

The telephone number for the out of hours service is: 541111 The NHS Walk-In Centre now operates on two sites: Carfax Street, town centre: Monday to Friday, 7am - 6pm.

Weekends & Bank Holidays, 7am - 5pm.

Clover Centre, GWH: Monday to Friday, 6pm - 10pm.

Weekends & Bank Holidays, 5pm - 10pm.

24 hour health information For advice on health matters, not requiring the attention of a nurse or doctor, call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

The Link Magazine • January 2006

11

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12 The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ January 2006

Learning by co-operation and exchange

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Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm. Saturday 10am - 4pm

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The Mayor of Swindon Ray Fisher marked the third and final year of Tregoze Primary School's involvement with the Comenius project when he welcomed nine teachers from partner schools in France, Italy and Poland.

7 Comenius encourages in T .> L teraction and y cooperation be m^` ^ ^;:, ' ° --` tween schools f` 1^.., Tregoze "" , teachers have visited all three countries and teachers from

Italy and France have made two visits to Swindon. The Polish partner pri- The Mayor receives Christmas gifts from European visitors at mary school in the Civic Offices with Tregoze youngsters Josh Cowan, Emily Krakow joined Dicks, Hailey Elbourne, Eddy Dommez the project later

and came to Swindon for the first time in December.

Tregoze headteacher Helen

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Swanson believes the project has enriched her school. "The educational and cultural exchange has been fantastic; we have made such good friends in other countries.

"Our teachers have been inspired, and the children have learnt such a lot from seeing work by pupils at partner schools as well as talking with visiting teachers."

Pupil Emily Dicks said, "it's been really interesting finding out about

other schools and seeing the work children do. The teachers from Italy, Poland and France have been really nice."

Polish headteacher Richard Sikora said the visit to Swindon was very enjoyable. "We have met very nice people. The education systems are different between countries but the teachers and the children are the same."

Mrs Swanson wanted to make particular mention of Wroughtori s Ivy Hotel for providing accommodation at very helpful rates.

The Link Magazine • January 2006

13

Salt Way's coffin nearly sealed The deed is nearly done: Swindon Council's cabinet confirmation on 16 November to close Salt Way Primary School goes to the independent School Organisation Committee on 11 January for a final decision, following a six week statutory consultation.

If the closure of Salt Way at the end of July is agreed, it will be the first of two schools the council is trying to shut down, to reduce the number of surplus places in West Swindon.

The other school in question is Windmill Hill which will be considered by the cabinet again on 18 January.

The governors at Salt Way feel aggrieved at their treatment, ever since the council announced the proposal during the Easter holidays to close the school and rebuild Shaw Ridge. A falling roll turned into a flood of transfers as parents sought places in schools with more secure futures.

The Salt Way governors have posed dozens of questions to local councillors and education officers, which, according to chairman Steve Spence have not been answered. These include: • how are catchment boundaries for Tregoze, Brook Field and Shaw Ridge to be redrawn?

• will it be safe to walk to Shaw Ridge from Middleleaze and The Prinnells?

• the council is considering building houses on the Toothill and Windmill Hill school sites, what plans does it have for Salt Way and Shaw Ridge?

• would it not be cheaper to maintain Salt Way as a single form entry school, serving a distinct geographical catchment - in combination with other uses on the site, rather than spend £5 million on a new Shaw Ridge Primary School?

The full list can be seen at swindonlink.com Our aerial picture shows the disposition of schools to help the School Organisation Committee consider the catchment areas and illustrates the routes pedestrians and drivers will use to get to school if Salt Way closes.

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14

The Link Magazine • January 2006

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www.penhil l-ic.co.uk Penhill Learning Centre

Courses: Flash MX, Dreamweaver MX, Photoshop Elements, Premier Elements (video editing), HTML, E-Shop (all shops merchant integrated with credit card transactions.)

A/l courses: £35 every six weeks. Take between 1 and 3 months to complete book based course with tutor support. Two hours in length each week.

Available on Saturdays 9.30am to 1.30pm

Contact us on 01793 704931 for further info r mation or via www.penhiill-ic.co.uk

NumberSense Maths and English After School Learning Centre for 6 to 16 years olds

Be creative on a university course Banish those dark winter evenings, come along to the University of Bath in Swindon and explore your creative side, writes Anne Oleson.

The Cen tr e for Lifelong Learning has a number of exciting Art & Design courses which are open to anyone aged 18 and over. No prior qualifications are necessary, all you need is enthusiasm and interest.

You could learn more about' Watercolour Painting' with James Read.

If you like drawing then 'Figurative Drawing: Portraits and the Body' with Laurie Pl an t is the course for you. Ever popular tutor Laurie will also be teaching 'Painting with Oils: Introduction.'

If photography is your thing, Boo Beaumont will be tutoring 'Looking through the Lens' and Roger Vlitos will be taking courses in portrait and also landscape photography.

Computers and photography are now closely connected and Nigel Goldsmith will help you get the best from equipment on 'Creative Digital Art - Combining Images.'

If you don't have the time to do a 10 week course, the university offers day and weekend schools covering watercolours, creative sculpture, drumming, a soul divas workshop and observational drawing with pencil.

Call 328800 for a prospectus or see them at at www.bath.ac.uk/ swindon / parttimecourses

Time for leisure through education Have you finished bringing up your family? Have you finished full time employment? Are you bored? Do you or could you enjoy learning? asks Brian Hinde.

Aligns to the school curriculum using a modular programme which allows selection of topics

Call. Richard Bell on 08000 283720 www.numbersense.co.uk

Discover the highways and hr/-ways of learning with U3A

The Swindon's University of the Third Age (U3A) may be just what you are looking for.

U3A is a country wide organisation with over 153,000 members, over 800 of whom are in Swindon.

It provides educational, creative and leisure activities in a friendly, informal atmosphere for the retired over 50s.

Despite the title, U3A has no formal teaching links with universities, the term being used in its original sense: a group of people coming together to learn for the pleasure of learning.

The term 'Third Age' indicates that, after the first age of childhood and full-time education and the second age of work and raising a family, there comes the third age of re ti rement, when people are free to follow interests when previously they may not have had time.

In the Swindon area there are over 60 daytime study and leisure groups in fifty different subjects.

You c an choose to participate in as many or as few as you choose.

Subjects on offer include antiques, art, history, languages (currently French, German, Italian, Russian and Spanish), literature, dancing,

opera, bridge, petanque, walking, yoga, science and aviation - to name but a few.

There are also lectures, study days and outings to theatres and concerts. Ever popular are six travel groups in which members study a town or area and then visit it.

No academic qualifications are required for membership of U3A and none are awarded. It is all provided for your education and enjoyment. It's run by the members for the members and the group leaders give their skills and services freely. Anyone who has an interest they would like to share with others can offer to become a group leader. Previous teaching

experience is not necessary.

For an annual membership fee of £18, you can then join as many groups as you wish. All activities (except theatre and concert trips) take place during the day.

To find out more, contact the U3A office on 690936 on Monday, Wednesday or Friday, loam to 12noon, (answerphone at other times). We'll send you a leaflet listing all activities and a membership application form, then it's up to you. Don't delay, call today.

The Link Magazine • January 2006

15

Inspectors impressed by primary school with global outlook Peatmoor Community Primary School had a great end of term Christmas present when Ofsted inspectors declared it an effective school that has many outstanding features.

This judgement supports the relevant activities and by provid- in South Africa, which has been and fun, and also that the quality school's own self-evaluation, ing displays of very high quality to covered extensively over the last of the curriculum and the well bewhich is regarded as a key feature stimulate pupils' interests. The per- five years in The Link. ing of the children is regarded as of inspections by Ofsted. sonal development of pupils and The inspectors consider the outstanding. It is testimony to the The inspectors say the school the high quality of the curriculum head teacher Terri Peacock a highly work put in by everybody involved has improved since thelastinspec- are major strengths. These are key effective, innovative and dedicated at Peatmoor." tion and is well placed to continue factors in promoting pupils' good leader. developing. It has few weaknesses achievement, and their high levels The governors provide a good North Swindon s gain and it provides very good value of enjoyment and self-esteem. level of support and challenge to Mrs Peacock will be leaving Whilst attendance is satisfactory, the school, which helps drive im- Peatmoor at the end of the acafor money.

Pupils enjoy attending and their pupils' spiritual, moral, social and provement. demic year to become headteacher enthusiasm to learn is described as cultural development is outstandMrs Peacock said she was de- of the new yet-to-be named priinfectious. They are proud of their ing and the inspectors remark par- lighted by the findings of the re- mary school on the North Swindon school and, along with the vast ticularly on the school's commit- port. "It is gratifying to know that Learning Campus in Priory Vale.

See the centre page feature. majority of the parents, think that menttoglobalcitizenshipthrough learning at Peatmoor is infectious it is a fun, safe, and exciting place its contact with Dihlabeng School to learn.

Provision in the Foundation Stage (Reception) is good. Pupils make good progress, particularly in their personal and social development and they continue to FPro^fes^i^on^ l Tuition 3 For ages 6-16 ac achieve well so that by the time V Individual Workplans in English & Maths they leave in Year 6, standards are 3 Qualified Teachers above average.

Free Assessments 3 SATS/GCSE/Exam Prep Performance in science and information & communication technol3 Unique programmes ..^*^ Kip McGrath - Swindon ogy (ICT) is particularly good. Pu3 proven Success unit Si. Basepoint Business Centre, pits with learning difficulties and Rivermead Drive, Westlea SN5 7EX. 3 Affordable Rates disabilities achieve well, due to the , high quality support they receive. c Peahnoor kids ; ing ready for the The quality of teaching is good Brunel200 celebrations next year. From r and has many strengths. Teachers left, Ben Forman, Helen Blenkhorn, generally make learning fun by DanielGran v ille, MollieHall,Annayah using new technology, planning Prosser

National accolade for two primaries Two Swindon schools have been recognised as matching the best in the country and have been put on the 'most successful school' list for 2004-05 after excellent Ofsted reports.

Theheadteachersof and caring school Beechcroft Infants and where pupils feels seShaw Ridge Primary curewhichisappreciSchools have been in- k. ' ated by parents. vited to the Guildhall Shaw Ridge, with in Bath on 10 January 1 269 pupils, could exto celebrate their pandto420ifnearby achievements with Salt Way Primary is Her Majesty's Chief closed by Swindon / Council, which proInspector for schools, David Bell. poses to spend nearly Shaw Ridge headteacher, Sally £5 million on rebuilding the school Cowell, above, said her school is a on an adjacent site. very happy and exciting place The other Swindon school to be where pupils have the right atti- recognised is Beechcroft Infants. tude and behaviour.

Headteacher Lynne Harper said "Our curriculum is stimulating she thought her school's success and varied and we work very much was based on the superb relationasateamwitheveryonehavingtheir ships that exist between staff, parsay. We strive to create a welcoming ents and children.

At Peatmoor Community Primary School The parent and toddler group has places at its Tuesday morning sessions. 10am to 12pm. There are a variety of toys and activities. The cost is £1 which includes refreshment.

Gymnastics for beginners starts on 12 January: 5 to 7 years: 4.15pm to 5.15pm: 8 to 11 years: 5.15pm to 6.15pm.

For details call Caroline Bowles at Peatmoor Community Facilities on 881613.

Thursday 26 January 5pm to 8.30pm

16 The Link Magazine • January 2006

Home-Made Organic _

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delivered to your door Call for a menu 01793 727304 Freshly prepared organic baby food frozen on the same day e: purepots@btinternet.com for babies 6 months + www.purepots.co.uk

Twenty years for playgroup Upper Shaw Farm playgroup celebrated its twentieth anniversary since setting up with a Christmas concert for parents and former staff, a children's party and a balloon launch.

The group has always been run by parents and manage:' ment committee chairperson Rachel O'Callaghan said she , u would like to thank all past and present parents who

gave up their time to ensure the success of the playgroup i, '- "" since it opened in November 1985.

•,c The group has places for children from January. For details call Pam Porter on Ready to cut a birthday cake, Dara Kelly, Mae .

1

By Sue • Discount prices for all the family • 25% discount for Seniors • Free parking with easy access for disabled

For an appointment call Sue on 01793 608844 or 07967 363322

ini ^ ^usicians SAMARITANS Emotional Support 24 hours a day

Fun Song sessions for parents/carers with

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Babies and mums attending massage courses at Emmanuel Church in Haydon Wick are sleeping easier and enjoying new friendships.

Geraldine O'Driscoll who runs stead of giving medicine. It was the baby massage classes is de- important to see how to do the lighted to see how the babies have massage rather than just read about developed and become more re- it. I don't think I would have been sponsive. As well as helping with confident about the amount of sleep, she has seen digestive and pressure to use if I hadn't been shown. colic problems improve.

"The atmosphere was relaxed.

It didn't matter if your baby cried or wanted a feed or nappy change.

Geraldine just carried on slowly and you joined back in when you could."

You never know who you will _ X d meet at baby massage. Of the nine ' ' mums on the December course, four members found friends they knew at school or at work and had lost touch with.

Geraldine is also keen to encourBuild stronger bonds with baby age mums to take time out for with help from Geraldine O'Driscoll themselves. As part of her Holistic During each six week course, Therapy at Home service, parents learn the routine gradu- Geraldine offers massage instrucally, building up to a whole body tion for groups of up to six women in their own home. This is the permassage by week five, Emma Davies, from Ash Brake fect opportunity for friends to get found that stomach massage together for an evening of pambrought relief to her daughter Faye pering and relaxation.

For details of courses or therawho first went to massage classes aged 8 weeks. "It feels good to be pies, call 07821 686570. able to do something for her in- www.holistictherapyathome.co.uk

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Delta Business Park. Westlea. West Swindon Headsturts is a friendly, 'family' nursery offering a warn, I y happy and relaxed environment where ever child benefits from individual attention.

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U Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year SPECIAL OFFER q Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds - am, pm. school day, all day FREE child care! q Real value for money. From £136 per week full time worth £50 with U Funded child-care credits available." this advert* 1 J Government Funded Nursery Sessions" Claim up to £38 worth of Nursery Credits per child per week • condmonsappiy I - now available for all 3 year olds "Rates may vary I For further information or to arrange a visit, call Alison on 877779.

Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day, Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds' ———————————————————

–I

The Link Magazine • January 2006

Brighter breaks at Catherine Wayte Pupils at Catherine Wayte Primary School in Abbey Meads are making the most of their break times thanks to newly painted colourful playground markings.

The children can enjoying a selection of games including twister, snakes and ladders and an activity trail.

Headteacher Celia Messenger said that the new designs were making breaks more playful and the children were more active. "They think it's fantastic and it's been amazing to see them following the activity trail and then making up their own games using the markings.

"From a child's point of view, the playground is huge and they can be unCatherine Wayte head Celia Messenger sure what to do. The with Jonti Marston, and Jarrad Brock, markings have proGenmia Matthews, Mikey Marston, Lauren Tate vided a focus. There is also a defined quiet area around a new gazebo." shelter. The structure, which can Funds for the painting were pro- hold thirty children, will be used vided by the school's PTA, whilst for outdoor lessons in the summer the gazebo has been paid for out of months and has already accomschool funds to provide shade and modated alfresco story times.

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Classes in Abbey Meads, Ramleaze, Old Town, Wootton Bassett & Space Adventure, with NEW CLASSES starting in Peatmoor and North Swindon January 2006!

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17

01193 52 y (0 y^ www.kidzaloudltd.co.uk Toddl er mwnffi- siarUng By bas. catch the 54, 550,550- operated by Stagecoach - call 01793 521 415 and select 1 for customer services.

18

The Link Magazine • January 2006

Thanks to all readers who have given Sally mobility Sally Lawrence received a great gift from Link readers who helped her raise the £1,500 she needed to buy a powered wheelchair.

Her appeal for as sistance in the Reader Sarah O'Rafferty from October edition touchedindividu- Taw Hill made available a rugby als, community groups and busi- shirt signed by the 2005 British nesses who gave money and put in Lions which was sold, commiseffort. Within two months Sally, sion free, on ebay by Link adverfrom Freshbrook, was able to pur- tiser Let Us Auction It. chase her chair from West SwinThe ladies from Freshbrook don based equipment supplier Church sent a cheque whilst Jane Olivia Reeves.

Upfold from Westlea and five girls The fundraising snowball who attend St Mary's Church of started to roll when staff at Part- England Primary School in Purton ners Salon held a bag pack at Asda, held sponsored swims. then body waxed all the hairs from Sally would like to send a heartDan Hintson. Asda also sent a cash felt thanks to all who have read her donation and Ashington Way story and contributed in some way..

Pharmacy collected contributions. "I cried every time a cheque arrived or I read an article," she said.

"I thought it would take a really long time to raise the money and be able to regain independence.

I've been completely gob smacked by the kindness I've received.

"I just want to take any son to Some of the people who helped met Sally at the Swindon Therapy Centre for school, get back into the gym to Multiple Sclerosis. Front from left, sponsored swimmers, Grace Bartlett, Bebhinn, Kiri and Georgia Langridge, Holly Farr. Back, Elizabeth Kingfisher from Freshbrook build up strength, and go shopping Church Ladies Group, body waxed Dan Hintson, Jackie Wray, therapy centre by myself and smile at people." administrator, Will Hurd, Sally's boyfriend, Charlotte Boyce from Partners Salon, However, not everything has Marc Tieleman's of Let Us Auction It, swimmer Jane Upfold, Jill Winson of gone smoothly. In December, a few Freshbrook Church, Lesley Reeves of Olivia Reeves days after getting the power chair,

Sa ll y's small indoor wheelchair -

Last chance to see Haydon lights

bought when she started to lose The Bower's bungalow at 8 Avonmead is festooned with Christmas strength in her legs - broke under li ghts. In early December 500 people witnessed the big turn on and th strain of the o constant use. u Sh She over the month Jan Bowers and her family hope to have raised at least hopes to have it repaired, but she £1,000 for the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis. m have to buy a replacement. may

41

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19

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THE LIki

MINE'S CUIak WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Beat stress in 2006 on a drum A father of three from Freshbrook TF i ^er^cT^ has a mission to spread African drumming across Swindon.

Graeme Goodwin has opened Rhythm Works at Studley Grange Craft Centre where he makes djembe drums. carved from Gambian bush mango. and runs classes and workshops.

Graeme learned his techniques from Gambian master drummer.

Tomas Camara, and is passionate Graeme Goodwin about passing on the traditions, as well as some of the underlying and feel the rhythm of the body. spiritual aspects of drumming.

The mind controls things too much.

Drumming helps reconnect you As with any musical instrument. a good grounding in technique is to your natural feelings. It helps us crucial and every workshop begins remember how to be childlike with practicing the basic beats. and its fun."

Graeme explains that the seemLearning drums in Gambia was ingly simple repetitions act like a life changing experience for the meditation, driving all other former mechanical engineer and thoughts out of the mind, corporate salesman. ' We need to let go of ourthinking After his mother's death in 1999,

Blast into the New Year at the BIG Roots Jam - Saturday 21 January Help find Swindon's rhythm and launch a big lottery bid Multi-cultural drum day for all ages at the Community Crossroads, the Old Railway Museum in Fleet Street All workshops £1 each loam - 12noon:

Dhol drumming with Swindon Dhollies

12.30pm - 2.30pm: Drums from eve ry where with Kaya 3pm - 5pm:

African Djembe drumming with Rhythm Works

From 8pm: Drum & Dance Party with juggling too! ( £1 fee; no alcohol or smoking). Parking in Farnsby Street car park

Beyond butterflies The Studley Grange Butterfly Centre has branched out into providing a home for snakes after they were given some by the RSPCA. A favourite is Ronnie, the Trans Pico rat snake from the USA who centre manager Luke Brown says is one of the most placid creatures ever ver.

Studley Gran e is one of the Y Grange biggest butterfly sanctuaries in Europe. If you want to get away from the winter chill, pop in because the temperature is a constant 85° to keep the butterflies happy.

Luke introducing Ronnie the rat snake to a young visitor at Studley Grange

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he decided to visit Tomas to improve his skills. He was so taken with the friendly people and also Tomas' virtuosity that he decided to use his inheritance to set up an international drum school.

Together they have built a house and compound at Kotu. an hour I from Banjul. the capital of Gambia, with rooms for guests. Holidays can be arranged through Rhythm Works and include drum tuition and your own djembe.

Workshops at Studley Grange take place on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

Drop in or call Graeme on 0870 0801 760 to discuss drumming sessions in schools and workplaces. www.rhythmworks.co.uk

M: 07899 663796 Tel: 487085 e: ddebicrawf@aol.com

Over 2,500 sq. ft. of products for the Artist, Crafter and Student D.M.C. Main Agency Daylight Lamps Stockist DIY Framing Supplies & Equipment Well worth a visit. Try us!

Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel/Fax: (01793) 513069 Phone for directions. Parkins.

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20

Lydiard on tour

Education adventure begins

A mural depicting the jewel in Swindon's crown by acclaimed artist Ken White will soon be seen around the town thanks to Intel.

Work begins in January to restore the 18th Century coach house and stable block at Lydiard Park, thanks to financial support from BMW. The stables, which once housed Lord Bolingbroke's famous race horses and St John family's carriages, the Grade II listed building will become an all-purpose classroom, benefiting schools who take part in Lydiard's education programme. It will also house facilities for community volunteers and horticultural apprentices working in the gardens. and much needed public lavatories.

Coun Nick Martin, Chair of the Lydiard Park Management Board, said, "we thank BMW Group for their superb support, along with other companies like Intel and nPower. The new classroom will provide an excellent teaching space, especially in bad weather.

"Visitors to Lydiard will also welcome, at last, the provision of public loos close to the house."

We /coming the Lydiard mural. from left, Phi/ Gibby. Arts & Business South Wes t, Ken White, Graham Palmer of Inte l, Sir Mike Pitt, John Fowler, fate/community affairs manager. Sarah Finch-Crisp. keeper of Lydiard House, John Woodget MD Intel UK Ltd The company is one of the business sponsors involved in the £5 million heritage lottery backed restoration of Lydiard Park.

Working with employees Ken created the mural in three panels at the Intel European headquarters in Old Town.

At an unveiling hosted by Arts & Business South West. director Phil Gibby said the support of business for the Lydiard project is a great success and a national example.

Graham Palmer, Intel director for UK & Ireland. said the company celebrates its twenty-fifth year in Swindon in 2006. "With so many

employees from all over the world visiting and working in Swindon. we have a commitment to making it an interesting place to both live and work."

Swindon Council's chief executive Sir Mike Pitt said, "I'm deli ghted to see David Murray-John's visage hidden in Ken's mural. He was a visionary for Swindon and was responsible for the acquisition of Lydiard Park for the town in 1944."

The triptych is on offer to other companies for display and it will also be seen in public locations around Swindon.

WRAG BARN Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ

Tel: 01 793 86132 7 Fax.' 01793 861325 Email: info@ wragharn.com www.wragbarn.com n^ =

View

a

Wrag Barn are pleased to announce that we now have the licence to perform Civil Weddings, Naming Ceremonies, Renewal of Marriage Vows and Commitment Ceremonies

Log on and register to our new interactive website. the latest news and receive updates on all , future events

Special Events Wrag Barn invite you to join us on Friday 20th January for Burns Night Celebration £17.50 per head including 3 course traditional Scottish meal, Piper and dancing toJugged Hare Duo Arrival from 7. 00pnr. Carriages 12 midnight Tickets availabe from 4th January 2006 (numbers are limited)

Sunday Carvery Lunch Come and enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carvery Lunch.

Service commences at 12 noon. Advance booking is advisable

Society & Company Golf Days The perfect location for your Golfing Away Day' Winter packages available from November 05 until March 06 Frost Bite' Coffee & Bacon Bap on arrival, 18 holes & 3 Course Warmer £32 per head 'Ice Breaker' Coffee on arrival & 2 Course Chefs Choice £27 per bead

Mini-marvellous education provision. Rear left Bob Bo/am, managing director of BMW Group P/ant Swindon. with new Lydiard education and outreach officer Kate Nash, Chris Lay. project manager of Beard construction, with Year 6 children from Tregoze Primary School

21

SWIhdGr wide Iffy opens up channel to the Angels Swindon Town manager Iffy Onuora officially kicked-off the new housing site at Angel Ridge at Okus. Old Town, on 16 December, where the Princess Margaret Hospital once stood.

Bloor Homes and Miller Homes are developing a range of three and four-bedroom homes, as well as two bed apartments. The site will include a care home for the elderly and a doctor's surgery.

A landscaped square at the centre of the development will feature a sunken garden which will be the final resting place for the PMH foundation stone. The name Angel Ridge was chosen after a competition run by Bloor Homes to commemorate all those who were born or died at hospital during its 47 years history on the site.

Lorraine Palmer of Bloor Homes said, "although memories of the hospital remain throughout Swindon. ourthoughts are fixed firmly on the future. From single people and couples to small and large families..

Angel Ridge will provide homes for every need and taste. Do visit the show homes."

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Eve ry apartment is spacious and stylish with full double-glazing and the fitted kitchen is equipped with a range of quality units and appliances including a washer dryer. Carpets and curtains are fitted throughout and the sitting-room has a delightful feature fireplace. There's a choice of one or two bedrooms and you'll find that the master bedroom has fitted wardrobes.

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an area in which to socialise with other owners. There are so many other things to tell you about, like the landscaped gardens, guest suite, secure parking and security access — to say nothing of the Comprehensive Home-Move Package that takes the stress out of selling your existing home and moving into your brand new lifestyle apartment.

has easy-to-use fittings (the 2 bedroom apartments also have an ensuite).

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Swing*r Wide What's Or in J Music Friday 13th, 8pm Chas n' Dave perform material drawing on subjects as diverse as talkative women and pieces of furniture. £12 Wyvern

Friday 20th, 7.30pm

Thursday 26th, 7.30pm

Swindon Recital Series: Cellist Marie Macleod and pianist Martin Sturfalt perform a programme which includes Bach's Suite in D minor.

Faure's sonata No. 2, Brahms' sonata in F major, and Gunnar Valkare's Corso. £10. Free for accompanied

The Ultimate 60's Show is a fantasy concert that will take you back to those glorious, heady days of the u sixties feat ring some of the greatest groups and solo artists of the era.

under 14s. Arts Centre

£14. Wyvern

Friday 27th, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra with a concert featuring works by three of the greats of the classical world. Rossini's overture, Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto and Mendelssohn's Scottish Symphony. £16.50. Wyvern

Saturday 28th, 7pm Sing-a-long-a-Sound of Music. A screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical in glorious, full screen technicolour, complete with subtitles so that the whole audience can sing along. £13.50. Wyvern Sunday 29th, 8pm Homespun with Dave Rotheray and Sam Brown. Songwriter and guitarist with The Beautiful South joins forces with singer Sam Brown. famous for her hit Stop (recently covered byJamelia). £12 Arts Centre

Saturday 14th, 8pm Acoustic Strawbs. Best known for their chart-topping Partofthe Union and LayDown. The Strawbs appear with their acoustic line-up. £12. Arts Centre

Saturday 14th, 8pm The Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain. The group rework classics of rock n roll, punk. jazz and classical music. £14.50. Wyvern Thursday 19th, 8pm Mike Sanchez and the Portions.

Born showman Mike and his fourpiece band perform rhythm and blues. Jerry Lee Lewis-style energetic rock and roll and frenzied boogie-woogie. £13.50. Arts Centre

Wednesday 25th, 7.30pm The Noise Ensemble is a dazzling new music spectacular. The show blends dynamic percussion with visual effects and contemporary design in an exciting stage production. £15. Wyvern

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23

Theatre Wednesday 25th to Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Out of Focus presented by the Phoenix Players. Confusion reigns when over-bookings cause chaos at a church hall annexe. But the disgruntled amateur actors unite for a common cause —the production of a pantomime. £6. Arts Centre. For tickets call 525616 (3pm to 8pm)

Tuesday 31st, 8pm Fecund Theatre 34. Part of the ALIVE: Drama for the 21st Century season, be/ow. Matthew has lived his life in seventh heaven, thriving on cocaine, charisma and the energy of his time. Frankie loves clothes, wants a baby and Matthew to change.

Everyone else wants to party hard.

We join them on their journey away from youth culture towards adult life.

Suitable for 16+. £10. Wyvern

Tuesday 31st, 8pm Thunderclap Newman. Rhythm and blues maestros Pete Goodall and Zoot Money perform songs from their latest album, Pick 'n' Tell, including a remake of classic number one single, Something in the Air. £ 12 Arts Centre

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Exhibitions

Film

Until Thursday 12th This Foreign Land. Photography by Roger Vlitos celebrating the astonishing cultural history embodied in the Wiltshire landscape. above.

Free. Great Western Hospital Until Saturday 4th February Piercing the Surface. Exploring the work of 20th and 21st Century artists, many of whom have used colour. texture, brushwork and tone. or even piercing the canvas to create 3-D effects. Free. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.

Until 22nd April

Wednesday 11th, 7.45pm Twin Sisters (12A). Twin sisters are separated as six-year-olds in 1925. one to grow up in Germany, the other in Holland. They meet again at the outbreak of World War II, when their li ves have taken very different directions. ( SF5) Arts Centre Thursday 12th & Friday 13th, 7.45pm Factotum (15). Directed by Bent Hamer; starring Matt Dillon and Lili Taylor. The story of a man living on the edge. of a writer willing to risk everything to make his life his poetry. £4. Arts Centre Wednesday 18th January, 7.45pm The Holy Girl (15). A saintlyteenager makes it her mission to save a middleaged doctor from his lust, while her divorced mother also has her eye on him. A heady mixture of religion and hormones. ( SFS) Arts Centre Monday 23rd, 7.30pm Oliver Twist (PG). With a screenplay

by Ronald Harwood, Academy Award winning director Roman Polanski brings his rich, imaginative, cinematic vision to this classic. £5 Wyvern Monday 30th, 7.45pm The Mighty Celt (12A). Directed by Pearse Elliot and starring Gillian Anderson and Robert Carlyle. From year old Donal sets the moment

Whether you're planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your proper ty, with over 17 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service.

There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it will be £300.

However, no completion no fee.

14

eyes on the fawn greyhound. he

to all Link readers Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Swindon 772779 e: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance

Fired Up. A display of ancient and modern ceramics and pottery.

Visitors are challenged to spot similarities and differences in the pieces. Free. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Thursday 5th to 15th February, 10am to 5pm weekdays, 10am to 1pm Saturday

Their Past — Your Future. Digital art, creative writing and acrylic paintings created by Toothill.

Freshbrook and Windmill Hill Primary Schools with Mobile Media's Reminiscence Project for the VE 60th anniversary. Free. Arts Centre Tuesday 10th to 25th March. 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday People Prefer..... Posters and original artworks selected from the Shell Advertising Arts Collection ill ustrating the richness and diversity of art during the 1930s. Free. Wyvern

knows he's onto a winner. All Donal wants is to keep the dog and restore family life, but he must make a huge sacrifice on the way. £4. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are formembers only. /t/spossib/e to join on any film evening.

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Steam - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

I] :

A

I

OPENING NEW DOORS During 2006 and 2007, Priory Vale will unveil five state-of-the-art schools, offering places for over 2000 children of all ages.

In September this year, a primary school and two relocated special schools will open at Priory Vale's Learning Campus, with a further primary school also opening in Haydon End. The Learning Campus secondary school will welcome pupils in September 2007. "Everything is going exactly to plan," smiled Sarah Hudd, Operations Manager from Private Finance Initiative (PFI) specialists, Equion. "Construction is well underway and were on track to deliver schools with a wealth of exceptional facilities."

From high-tech classrooms, sports equipment and halls to specialist learning tools for the special schools, the establishments will satisfy students' every need. Within the Learning Campus, each school will feature parking spaces, cycle and pedestrian

routes, plus unobtrusive security systems, such as CCTV cameras and perimeter fencing. "The security will keep students safe while remaining unobtrusive," Sarah confirmed. "We're determined to create schools that are pleasant and professional in equal measures. Pupils, teachers and visitors will enjoy schools that boast open spaces, works of art and covered walkways throughout the campus."

With Swindon Borough Council currently recruiting key staff at each school, Councillor Garry Perkins, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, echoed Sarah's sentiments.

"These schools are going to be some of the best in the country," he said. "They will be a real asset to the local community and I can't wait until they're complete."

Below: Construction of Prio ry Vales schools is well underway

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____

What's in a name?

As reported in the December issue of The Link, the governors of the forthcoming primary school (PS4) in Haydon End would like your help naming the establishment. "We're keen to hear from readers who can suggest a name that's interesting and distinctive," said Clint Ricketts, Chair of Governors for the school.

There's only a few days left to suggest a name, so please send your ideas to The Link, 70 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7BD by 5 Janua ry 2005.

A closer look...

Secondary School (Si): opening

on 3 Sept 2007 in the Learning Campus for 11 to 16 year olds.

Uplands Special School:

opening on 4 Sept 2006 in the Learning Campus for 11 to 19 year olds with learning difficulties.

Brimble Hill Special School:

opening on 4 Sept 2006 in the Learning Campus for children aged 2 to 11 with learning difficulties.

Primary School (PS6): opening

on 4 Sept 2006 in the Learning Campus for 4 to 11 year olds.

Primary School (PS4): opening

on 4 Sept 2006 in Haydon End, Priory Vale, for 4 to 11 year olds.

For more information on Priory Vale's fo rt hcoming schools, please visit www.orio rv vale.net/education.html . You can also find detailed descriptions, floor plans and images of the schools at www.tribalresourcing : comjswiindonscho ols

PROPERTY ROUND-UP RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE THE RACE IS ON bedroom and four-bedroom homes are taking shape. "Those searching for style and space in an attractive location won't be disappointed," Lorraine confirmed.

The new Marketing Suite at The Nurseries

Award-winning housebuilder, Bloor Homes, has put style and space back on the map with The Grange and The Nurseries in the Haydon End area of Priory Vale. The Grange has been a huge success," said Lorraine Palmer, Sales Director from Bloor Homes.

"From the beginning, we knew The Grange's properties and location would prove popular. Recently, we sold the last remaining home within this beautiful development."

The Grange's success story is now continuing at The Nurseries, where a selection of apartments, and three-

On 1 December, Bloor Homes moved into a new sales office at The Nurseries, where Sales Executives Becky Mann and Karen Turner are helping homeseekers find their perfect properties. In January, the Bloor team will also unveil their new showhome: a featuring Lambourn three-storey furnishings from leading interior designers, Connections in Design. " We're making great progress," said Lorraine. "Construction has begun, we've released the apartments for sale, with many already reserved. That's why there's never been a better time to get in touch and find out more." To register your interest, call Karen and Becky today on 01793 702255 or visit the marketing suite at Junction 7 Haydon End, Priory Vale, Swindon, every day from 10am to 5pm.

LIVING IN THE SHIRES George Wimpey is also offering special deals on the apartments at The Shires with their 'Property of the Week' scheme. Every week, the housebuilder will announce a number of incentives, such as stamp duty paid, five percent deposit or £500 towards legal fees. To make moving home as easy as possible, the George Wimpey Assisted Purchase Plan also helps customers find buyers for their homes while assisting them throughout the purchase process.

Stylish apartments at The Shires

Bryant Homes is enjoying a tremendous response to its new properties at Steeple Chase and the Wilson Connelly development, The Hedgerows. In just three months, the renowned housebuilder sold most of its properties before building commenced.

"People are comfortable buying from plan to secure their plot and benefit from any potential rise in value," said Area Sales Manager, Angie Clark. " We're also offering some tempting incentives. All buyers have to do is call in at our marketing suites and we'll arrange a deal to suit their circumstances.'' Homeseekers can choose between such incentives as part-exchange, five percent deposit paid, stamp duty paid, or the pick of quality furnishings and decor from their design service.

Steeple Chase's properties are currently priced from £180,000 to £220,000 for a three-bedroom semi and from £320,000 for a four-bedroom detached Fairfield home. Prices at The Hedgerows start from £145,950 for a two-bedroom coach house to £279,950 for a four-bedroom detached. Bryant Homes' Challice Place development also features two remaining fourbedroom detached properties.

For luxurious contemporary homes with an array of timeless traditional designs, look no further than The Shires from George Wimpey.

This winning blend of beautiful properties and attractive incentives has prompted an excellent response to the first phase of The Shires. Already, the development is accepting reservations for the second phase.

Perfect for first-time buyers, The Shires offers a selection of two-bedroom apartments priced from just £138,995.

Meanwhile, established homeowners looking for more space will find their ideal future home in a range of three and four-bedroom houses with prices starting from £206,995.

For further information on available properties at The Shires, please contact Julie and Katrina at the sales centre on 01793 726897 or visit them any day of the week between 11am to 5pm.

Alternatively, you can visit

"We've got a great mix of properties, ranging from two-bedroom coach houses, to three and four-bedroom detached and semi-detached homes in many different styles," confirmed Angie.

For more information, call Steeple Chase on 01793 729960, The Hedgerows on 01793 726784, and Challice Place on 01793 723344. Alternatively, visit

www.georgewimpey.co.uk

www. bryant. co . uk/south west

2

WWW.PRIORYVALE.COM

I N WITH THE NEW

Doing the business

Start the New Year in style with a stunning new home from Westbury.

The leading housebuilder has two properties at its Vicarage Gardens development in Priory Vale: the fourbedroom Anvil cottage at £229,995 and five-bedroom Turnbury at just £266,995. Both sport generously proportioned accommodation and are due for completion in early February.

Below is just a selection of businesses promoting their offerings at www.prioryvale.com .

If you have a local business, email sam@elevationstudios.co.uk and we'll place your details on the site.

Westbury's popular Vicarage Gardens development is now in its final phase with the last releases including the two-bedroom Cotswold and Chiltern coach houses, and the Mendip and Windermere apartments. Also part of Vicarage Gardens final phase is The Manor; a stunning collection of ten two-bedroom apartments featuring open-plan living areas and ensuites to master bedrooms.

Chapel Grange is Westbury's latest Priory Vale development. With its range of two, three, four and fivebedroom houses and one and twobedroom Aspen apartments, there

Window cleaning

Aspen apartments at Chapel Grange

really is something for everyone at this exclusive location.

Westbury's Aspen apartments offer all the benefits of modern living. Living, dining and kitchen areas integrate in one ample living space that's perfect for today's social lifestyles. A master bedroom, complete with integral wardrobes and a second bedroom lead off from the main entrance hall and there is a fully fitted bathroom with shower facilities. To find out more about Westbury properties at Priory Vale, call Vicarage Gardens on 01793 722992 and Chapel Grange on 01793 729230.

SHERSTON MEWS TAKES SHAPE

h2o Window Cleaning Services superior cleaning for residents and commercial clients. Call 700635 or 07833 681329.

Childminders • Karen Kingston, registered childminder, Oakhurst. Call Karen on 721144.

• Before and After School Club and childminding. Call Jane Tilling on 725350 or 07786 845428.

• Mandi Morris, a registered childminder. Call Mandi on 01793 887135 or 07747 104463.

Photographic art IC Pictures - affordable photographic art for the home and office. Call 724267 or 07887 574527.

conveniences, each home sports classic features, finished in warm brick and cream-rendered facades. The houses also feature private gardens and garages while traffic calming measures are in place throughout.

The Bath ford at Sherston Mews

Crest Nicholson has recently launched the latest phase of its Braydon Mead development at Priory Vale. A select development of just 32 two, three and four-bedroom homes, Sherston Mews occupies a superb central location within the traditional country village setting of Braydon Mead.

Throughout, homebuyers will find an inspired collection of beautifully designed period-style homes. A pretty tree-lined avenue also leads to an block-paved crescent, attractive creating the perfect setting for the properties.

Sensitively combining traditional architecture with modern

WWW.PRIORYVALE.COM

Homes currently available for sale include a two-bedroom coach house with a garage at £132,500, twobedroom Sandown-style homes from £155,000, three-bedroom Sherstonstyle homes from £169,950 and fourbedroom detached Bathford-style homes from £219,950. Whichever home people select, they can expect a wealth of space and exquisite features.

For example, The Mayfair - a fourbedroom three-storey property boasts a generous lounge, four spacious bedrooms, and an attic room occupying the entire top floor of the house.

For further information on homes at Sherston Mews in Braydon Mead call 01793 700518, visit the sales office which is open daily from 10am to 5pm, or email

V

Everything to play for Priory Vale is packed with play areas guaranteed to keep your kids entertained all year round.

Here's where you'll find Priory Vale's current and proposed recreation areas: • Near the obelisk on Redhouse Way • Behind Eastbury Way, just off junction 6a • Behind Voyager Drive near Tadpole Lane - opening soon • Behind Chastleton Road and the Bovis retirement homes - planned for 2006

• Adjacent to Haydon Meadow planned for 2006

bra ydonmead@crestnicholson. corn

3

THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION next three to four years. Redhouse Village Centre will comprise a mixture of uses set around public squares with high-quality landscaping."

Catering for residents' health and spiritual needs, Redhouse Village Centre includes sites for a medical centre and a place of worship. "We are currently discussing potential operators and their requirements with the council and a health trust," said Chris.

"Crest Nicholson remains committed

In recent months, the Swindon Link magazine has received a host of enquiries on Crest Nicholson's plans for Priory Vale's forthcoming Village Centre. We're delighted to report that the location, entitled Redhouse Village Centre, still promises to deliver an excellent selection of traditional squares, settings and homes.

During January 2006, construction will

mix of services, we are confident they

commence at the long-awaited

will complement those already on offer

Redhouse Village Centre. This first stage of building will herald the arrival

at the Orbital Shopping Park. They will

of a Smile convenience store, four further retail outlets and car parking during the autumn of 2007. From

get the mix of services that local

be local shops, so it's important we people want."

there, the next three to four years will

First to arrive is a Smile store, from

see the remainder of the Village Centre taking shape. The developers,

the family-run Symonds Holdings Group. "This small but growing

Crest Nicholson, are currently in

operator has many shops throughout

advanced talks with other retailers

the South West," continued Chris. "It

and busy planning the centre's squares, streets and properties.

will provide a variety of everyday goods including groceries, bakeries, refreshments and newspapers."

" We are marketing the four retail units and have received a lot of interest from various parties," said Development Manager, Chris Cain. " While we do not yet know the precise

Chris also confirmed Crest Nicholson's future plans for the area: "This is the first phase in the village centre, which

to the success of Priory Vale and the Redhouse Village Centre, which is a vital setting within the area. Alongside our consultants, we are working hard to deliver a village centre that provides the services residents want on their doorstep. What's more, we are striving to create a quality environment to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike."

Visit www.prioryvale.com over the next few weeks for details of the first services to arrive in Redhouse Village Centre.

Setting up shop?

Whether you're already in business or considering starting a new venture, what better place to sell your wares than in Redhouse Village Centre? For information on available retail units, call Cronin Page on 01934 820666 or McArthur Wilson on

0117 9083350.

we will complete in stages over the

We hope you've enjoyed Priory Vale Newsletter ` this issue of the Priory Vale c/o Elevation Creative Studios r Newsletter. Your opinions Basepoint Business Centre are important to us. If you Rivermead Drive, Westlea have any news or views Swindon SN5 7EX about Priory Vale, please Or email: get in touch. info@elevationstudios.co.uk

Swirdhr Wide What's Or Comedy Saturday 21st, 8pm Jo Caulfield. The award-winning stand-up comedian, So Graham Norton scriptwriter and star of her own Radio 4 show, /ts That Jo Cau/fie/d Again. £10. Arts Centre Tuesday 24th. 7.30pm Completely Hollywood. The Reduced Shakespeare Company boldly goes to Tinsel Town. They rummage through the reels and flick through the films in this clatter through the classics including Casablanca.

King Kong and Jaws. £15 Wyvern

Monday 30th, 8pm No Agenda. Omid Djalili one of Britain's freshest and most original comics. above. Experience funniest Iranian stand-up who drew over 16,000 people to his 2005 Edinburgh Festival fringe No Agenda show before it transferred to London. £14.50 Wyvern

25

i t J rt rq

Coming Up Children & Family Dance Monday 16th. 7.30pm February Events Swan Lake performed by the

Monday 2nd to Sunday 8th (contact Wyvern for ti mes) Peter Pan. The biggest and most enchanting pantomime Swindon has ever seen. Join Peter and his friends Wendy. Michael, John and Tinkerbell as they adventure to Neverland.

Cheer them on as they save the lost boys from the pirates. £15 Wyvern Sunday 8th, 10.30am to 3.30pm Slotcar Swapmeet and Show.

Scalextric and other model cars: racing and demonstrations. More information on page 35. Oasis. £2 adults. £1 children Friday 20th and Sat 21st, 7.30pm Robin Hood.The annual charity show by staff from Thames Water Customer Services, in aid of CALM. Covingham Preschool and the Alzheimers Association. Thames Water will match all the money raised £4 to every £1. £750. Wyvern Saturday 21st. 2pm to 3pm Toad's Great Western Railway Adventure presented by the Sixth Sense Theatre Company. This new adventure with Toad from Wind in the Willows, is suitable for children aged 4 to 11 years. See what happens when the ambitious and loveable rascal gives up stealing cars and takes a steam train instead. £5 Family of four £16. Arts Centre 0

CO-OPEL. COMMUNI DIVIDEND b"EAL BENEFITS TO REAL LIVES

Russian State Ballet of Siberia. The immortal love story of a young prince enchanted by a beautiful swan. With Tchaikovsky's haunting score, and enchanting corps de ballet of elegant swans, this magical work brilliantly showcases the virtuosity of this company. £26. Wyvern

Tuesday 17th, 7.30pm The Nutcracker performed by the Russian State Ballet of Siberia. As night falls, travel to a colourful fantasy world filled with wonderful characters. from the Sugar Plum Fairy to a lively band of toy soldiers. £26. Wyvern

Talks Monday 9th, 2.15pm National Parks: not ours but ours to look after by Adrian Thornton.

E/tendune Ha//. Wroughton. £2 Free to U3A members. Tel.' 642634

1st Vampires Rock — heavy rock anthem covers. £16 Wyvern 1st Downfall SFS film. Arts Centre 2nd Fairport Convention £16.

Wyvern 3rd and 4th Walking On Sunshine K School of Music and Arts. Arts Centre 5th Americana music triple bill. £10.

Arts Centre 6th On a Clear Day - film. £4. Arts Centre 7th Billie Holiday: Strange Fruit Musical drama. £15 Arts Centre 7th Rumble Street Dance version of Romeo and Juliet. £14. Wyvern 8th Lee Mack comedian. £10. Arts Centre 9th Ashley Hutching's Rainbow Chasers acoustic project. £10. Arts Centre 9th The Drifters £17. Wyvern 25th Chuckle Brothers. £12.

Wyvern

March l' 5th Aled Jones, right £21.50.

Wyvern 71hto11th The Jungle Book. £13.

Wyvern 28th Wishbone Ash. £20. Arts Centre

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 o rder an y thing else you need.

Dolls houses f- 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 10 to 5• Sun 11 to 5

26

Swind ,r Wide Putting photos first

Is your PC ; o

Paul Dunn from Haydon Wick has set off on an interesting publishing venture.

In a crowded sector. Paul has produced Ma Vista. a photographic magazine that concentrates on the pictures.

It's been three years in the planning and initial reaction to the first edition has been very positive said Paul. °People like the very large images and few words in MaVista. I wanted to create a publication where the picture is the star and not crowded by text or advertisements."

MaVista certainly has a wide range of images - wildlife by Swindon photogapher Jean Dupre, on the grid with the Jordan F1 team, a contribution from Austin Mitchell MP and pictures from the USA and South Africa.

MaVista costs £4 and is available from Borders, North Swindon or via www.mavista.co.uk

bu

in you? gg g Call Practical Applications Ltd. for a friendly service • Upgrades S Repairs • Networking & the internet • Home visits, collection & delivery • Or for help getting started, call us days, evenings or weekends on

01793 321361 Mobile 07919 263072 E: alien@procticaleppIicetions.co.uk

www.prcicticalapplications.co.uk

Money back if the show doesn't satisfy Line Dance

with

Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials ib Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

IfataL ._.

The Wyvern Theatre is offering an incentive to discover what it has to offer in its AL/IVE.'Drama forthe2/st Century season this Spring.

If you don't enjoy the performance, simply seek out the the duty manager during the interval, or after the performance on the night. and you will receive a credit against your next booking for a Wyvern drama.

The season of innovative but accessible drama includes Fecund Theatre 34in January, Love and Other Fairyta/es and The Jungle Book in March, 's and / Want ThatHairin April.

Marketing director, Victoria Kearns, believes that local audiences appreciate exciting new work.

"There is no need to travel to other towns," she said. "We're bringing new and fresh productions to Swindon. Discover drama here, on yourdoorstep." ,

^< r^.

y *^

Book now for the Jungle Book at the Wyvern art'

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28

Swindon Wide Jugglers tossed a lifeline

Swindon's successful Swindon juggling club will be able to expand thanks to a £500 Community Dividend grant from the Midcounties Cooperative.

The grant will be used to replace club fosters an ethos of co-operaworn out equipment and add new tion and everyone can gain a sense items. of achievement and improved selfSet up by Jake the Juggler. the esteem. club meets on Tuesday evenings To find out more about joining inthe Old Railway Museum on Fleet call Jake Holland on 771080.

Street and has grown to 45 members, aged mainly 8 to 18. However anyone is welcome to join.

The broader aim of the club is to provide a meeting place for young people where they can enjoy sharing skills, learning as they go. The

III C Mike Pa/freman, manager, Groundwe!! Road Co-op. deve%ping his diab/o ski//s with juggler O/iver Little

LQIaamily Busin • All types of fencing installed • Full patio/decking service a • Made to measure gates • All pressure treated limbers • Help/advice on all fencing & landscape matters

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

Venue threatened Having demonstrated what an excellent meeting and performance space the Old Railway Museum is, the juggling club and other community group users may be evicted if Swindon Council pursues plans to convert the only large hall in the town centre into offices.

www.SwindonGailery.org.uk sponsored by Swindon Link

Cars return to West landmark. Norman Fosters iconic 'Renault'bui/ding became the temporary home for the Swindon Ford franchise in early December. Be/ow, a display of vintage andmodern Renau/tracing cars, shortly before the company vacated the build/hg in 2001

5wirdil Wide Looking for lur in 2006? y

^ ^^`""''

You could find it via Swindon based company Astro Love Link at Astroluvlink.com .

Setup by Theresa Sheridan from patibility system. Members can also Taw Hill. the website offers both access an internal messaging systraditional and modern matching tem and have their photos distechniques, with touches of fun played.

The site is open to over 18s and and romance.

Matching is carried out using a has been developed to suit all age unique technique based upon and groups. weighted on what is most impor- Join astroluvlink.com in January tant to the user when looking for and receive a free copy of My Deslove. Members are also matched tiny magazine which is not availusing an astrologically based com- able in the UK.

29

`"''''„i...• Guides for Brides ^h

WEDDING FAI IB

Sunda y 22nd January Alexandra House, Wroughton, Wilts

Sunda y 12th February The Hilton, Swindon. Wilts

Sunday 5th March The De Vere Hotel, Swindon, Wilts Bank Holida

Monday 1 si` May Bowood Golf & Country Club, Caine, Wilts

Xmas in The Lane Hundreds of people got into traditional festive spirit by visiting Old Shaw Lane on 11 December.

The road was shut off for a few to be setup. There was also mulled hours for crafts and seasonal stalls wine and mince pies and community carol singing. Organiser Lesley Dredge said the evening was a great show of community spirit. "It really was lovely to see everyone visiting the stalls under the twinkling lights."

Over £1,100 was raised for the Prospect Hospice and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Thanks to BL Baker Contractors and Rapid Hire for providing outdoor lights in response to the December Link's appeal.

Nancy Bristow of O/d Shaw Lane gets friendly with Santa and his helpers

Studley Grange

\. tl

B.ui't'iI

garden & hwre park

KW

11am - 4pm - Free admission - Free information pack www.bridal-shows.co.uk Guides for Brides 01235 770078

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30 The Link Magazine • January 2006

"I think I'll be dead in a year if I get any bigger"

Lose the pounds

Vivienne Hallet from Shaw has taken the drastic step of asking The Link to shame her into shedding 5 stone in 2006. She hopes this public demonstration of her plight and her desire to lose weight - as well as encouragement from readers, whether she knows them or not - will help her on the path to a new life.

Vivienne explained that herreso- I've been too embarrassed to use, b oning weight lution at the end of 2004 was to now I'm willing to tell everybody gain down to rich control her cravings. about my problems in food, a sweet tooth, "I really thought I the hope thatIcanget themenopauseand could do it, but I'm on top of them. To be medication. even bigger now. Five brutally honest, I'm Vivienne said years ago I was a size getting old before my that her husband 14. Now I'm size 20 time and I think I'llbe and her two chiland weigh nearly 18 dead in a year if I get dren supported her decision to any bigger." stone, my health is

and save pounds If you've lost control like Viv, but

don'twantto reveal your plight, we've negotiated a special deal with the three

personal trainers who advertise in The Link. If you commit to eight sessions, which will focus on nutrition and physi-

cal exercise, and book before 31/1/06. the last two will be free. Call now Richie Jeffers of Ultimate Success tel: 07743 108775 Dawn Morse of Achieve Success tel: 700659 Les Slinn Personal Training tel: 0783 3582788

They say black makes slimmer. Viv trying to hide the evidence

Why do people put on weight?

Women, men, mirrors: not a good mix

Achieve Success Fitness is holding a Weight Loss and Nutrition Workshop on Saturday 14 January, 10am to 2pm.

Dawn Morse promises the session will be informative and practical, look at the myths of weight loss, consider the most successful diets on the market and how to tailor the best principles for a personal nutrition plan.

The day will provide weight loss tips, give you an idea of super foods that will help you lose weight and there will be time to try out different types of exercise that can be done at home.

Spaces are limited, so call Dawn on 700659.

Lots of women won't go to a gym because of their shape, the mirrors don't lie and the fact that there are blokes about.

But Curves in the town centre have come up with the answer - a woman only space where weight loss goals can be pursued in a supportive, positive atmosphere. It has easy to use equipment made specifically for women, integrated with a specially designed circuit training programme, where members spend just 30 seconds on each exercise.

The sessions last only 30 minutes starting with a stretch and finishing with a cool down - all supervised by experts who give advice and encouragement. Use the advert below and get the first week free.

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The Link Magazine - January 2006 31

Olympic support bid by local school Greendown School in Grange Park is offering itself as a venue for Olympic preparation in seven years.

With two sports halls, astro turf closeby, Greendown is located less and grass pitches, and tennis than a mile from M4 Junction 16 courts, just a stone's throw from and four excellent hotels.

"We are also keen to get involved playing fields in Lydiard Park and also the facilities at the Link Cen- with Olympic preparations betre, the school believes it is well cause the educational value will placed to host the preparation of be enormous. Greendown is curathletes from other countries com- rently applying for specialist stapeting at the 2012 London Olym- tus focussed on maths, computing and sports, and we are building pics.

Sports teacher Christian Dobbs strong links with a school in South has written to the Olympics com- Africa. We believe the cultural inmittee outlining what Greendown terchange with athletes from overand Swindon can offer. He said, seas would be an incredible expe"we are perfectly positioned. Apart rience for both the school and the from our sports facilities and those whole West Swindon community."

New Haydon facility for youngsters I mprovements to facilities for young people at Haydon Centre are due to be completed early in the New Year.

Costing up to £49,000, the work entails the conversion of the area previously used as a bar into a dance and fitness studio designed to be used mainly by the 5 to 16 year age range. A new sprung floor and nonfixed gym equipment will provide scope for exercise classes as well as ballet, tap and other dance.

The bar has not functioned as such for several years and was never successful when the premises was a community centre. Its only recent use has been for occasional meetings.

Centre manager Mike Jeary believes that the improvements will provide greater fl exibility in the Haydon Centre as some sports ha ll activities can transfer to the new studio.

Investment in the improved exercise facilities for young people at the centre compliments the opening of the youth centre at the North Swindon District Centre, next to the library.

New Year -New Body Ne--w yo^/ New fitness classes starting in January 2006 at Lydiard Millicent Primary School The Butts, Lydiard Millicent

Sports Massage

Tuesdays, from 10th January 7- fipm Aerotone: A combination of low impact aerobics and body toning. £4 per class. Pay as you go 8 . 9pm Pilates: A mind and body class suitable for beginners and improvers. £5 pe class - each 5 week course to be booked and paid for in advance For details and to book for Pilates call Debbie Mitchell on 01793 721109 or 07745 422365

Jamie Webb BSc (Hops) h1SST

Fully qualified and insured

Sports Therapist.

01793 613352 Jamie@SwandonSpor1sTherapy.co.uk www. Swindon SportsTherapy.co. uk

A new look for the New Year! r...._ Semi-permanent Eyebrows Overplucked or fair eyebrows Natural-looking, well-defined

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The De Vere Swindon Leisure Club has been transformed Vast changes have been made at the De Vere Swindon Leisure Club and Health & Beau ty Suite, after extensive refurbishment and alteration we are now ready to show off our fabulous new facilities which include: New Dance Studio New Steam Room & shower area New Technogym equipment Completely refurbished changing facilities —___

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For further information and membership details please call Lillian Bryan o

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Experience the De Vere difference De Vere Hotel, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon, SN5 7DW Tel: 01793 878785 Fax: 01793 877822 Final!: lillian.bryan @devere-hotels.com www.devereswindon.co .ulc De Vere Hotels & Leisure Ltd Res istered in England Registered number 418878.

Registered address: De Vere Hotels & Leisure, 2100 Daresbury Park, Warrington WA4 4BP

The Link Magazine • January 2006

32

How long will your New Year's resolution last?

Are you thinking of joining a gym to get fit?

There is another way: Ultimate Success exciting home training sessions If you've tried lots of ways to get fit & healthy but nothing has worked, then call Richie for an informal chat about how he can help you.

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In November The Link teamed Richie changes them regularly it up with personal trainer Richie does not feel hard at the time; but Jeffers from Nine Elms to offer a I'm exhausted afterwards."

Bryony was also concerned that teenager the chance to have 12 free coverage in The Link might bring hours of fitness training.

Greendown pupil Bryony ridicule, but she was surprised how Tancock from Grange Park took the many people read the story. brave step of changing her lifestyle "There's been lots of positive comin the full glare of publicity, and has ments," she said. "I've had a lot of encouragement from other stubeen enjoying the experience.

By Christmas she had fitted in 6 dents and teachers." sessions, training once a week with Richie, who left Greendown in Richie and also working out on her 2001, is impressed by Bryony's own and with her mum in between. commitment. "She works hard and "I was nervous when we started is motivated to train on her own. out because I was unsure what we hi just a few weeks she's become a would be doing," said Bryony. lot stronger and her balance on the "But it's been great. I've been able exercise ball is very good which to do all the exercises and because helps build up core muscles."

Learn to attack at Link Centre A new workout progamme will be launched at the Link Centre on Tuesday 3 and Thursday 5 January.

Called BodyAttack, the hour long sessions are described as an intensive athletic workout using simple interval training techniques with no frills and no equipment.

The result will be improved heart and lung function, increased bone density and rapid fat loss. Perfect to achieve that New Year's resolution.

Drop into Link Centre to book a session or call 445566 for details.

Climb the walls to beat stress Instructors at The Ridge climbing wall in the Link Centre launch a six week climbing course aimed at beginner adults on Wednesday 4 January. To sign up call Link Centre on 445566.

Hotel facilities transformed The leisure and conference facilities at the De Vere Hotel at Shaw Ridge have undergone a £750,000 re-design to cater for the latest trends in the market.

In response to demand a new dance studio has been created so that a yoga, pilates and dance programme can be developed. New Technogym equipment has been introduced and the changing areas have been refurbished, alongside a new steam room and shower area.

The Leisure Club holds an open day on Sunday 15 January, 11am to 4pm, when readers are invited to view the facilities and discuss membership. For details call Lillian Bryan on 889361.

The adjacent Compton conference suite has undergone complete redecoration, including new curtains and carpets and the new soundproof partitioning enables it to be used for separate meetings or be opened up for larger events of up to 70 people.

The hotel has also developed six luxury meeting rooms for up to 12 people. To discuss a booking call the sales team on 878785.

The Link Magazine • January 2006 33

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34 The Link Magazine • January 2006

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Swindon eBay business uncovers the treasures It's just over a year since eBay trading company Let Us Auction It sold the first item, and owner Marc Tielemans from Grange Park now sits in his Cheney Manor office surrounded by an increasing and ever changing assortment of items that might provide a windfall for their owners.

"The items that you think are als who simply _ Bargains, his secworthless will be the ones that are don't have the 2 .... ^ ondary trading worth a lot of money," said Marc, time. company dealing who has found some real gems The Tielemans "" " 7 in electrical since he launched the business with have made some goods. He hopes his wife Julie on 1 January 2005. intriguing sales. { to set up offices "Before you take it to the tip it's One customer in other towns, worth popping in or giving us a sold the entire ; with Swindon as call." stock of his shop, — the hub. Very few From furniture to Chinese an- another a car to a eBay trading A tiques, musical instruments to cars, group of Russians companies like Let Us Auction It has seen it all in who got off their Marc's exist in its first year. plane and into the UK. Largely from adverts in The Link, their new transFormerly a corthe business has gone from port. They've sold poratehighflyer, strength to strength, breaking even an antique double out of a job when after just six months and retaining bass for £8,800, a . his company was 100 percent positive feedback from cello for £3,000 bought out, Marc eBayers. At any one time 75 to 150 and a flute for has learnt a lot itemsareonsale,and95percentof £2,350. The most about antiques those get sold first time, interesting item ' over the year,, and While buying off eBay is all too was an official insays he now sees easy, selling can be time consum- vitation to the fuhimself as an aucing and people often get it wrong. neral of King George V. tioneer. He is one of eBay's PowerFor a 30 per cent cut of the sale, LUAI has also been involved in sellers, and has attended the eBay Marc takes on the tricky task of charity auctions commission free, University to learn the tricks of the selling unwanted items - present- most recently selling a signed Brit- trade. "When you put something ing the goods on eBay with photos ish Lions rugby shirt to raise money up for sale and you expect it to sell and descriptions, and dispatching for the Link magazine Sally Law- for £100 and all of the sudden bidit to buyers. His customers range rence wheelchair appeal. ding is up to £1,000 it's very excitfrom older people who don't have The new year will see further ing." the equipment or the technologi- development of the business as See the LUAI advert on page 7 cal know-how, to busy profession- Marc plans to enlarge Plenty-of- for contact details.

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The Link Magazine • January 2006 35

Credit Union offers cure for Christmas debt hangovers Christmas over-indulgence can be followed by a financial headache and a sickening spiral of debt and worry.

Repairing the mess is not easy tising on TV seem friendly with no but remedies are available from forms to fill in, but they will want the Clivey Credit Union in North you to use your house as security.

Swindon which offers savings ac- The Credit Union won't give you a counts, low cost loans and free pro- loan for more than you have shown fessional financial advice, you can pay back."

"This is the perfect time to start Saving regularly for a few planning for next Christmas," said months, before borrowing money, credit union worker Julie Allen. means that customers know that "People can save regularly with us they can afford the repayments. even if they have no bank account. They can also be sure that they Nobody is excluded because they won't be crippled with interest have existing debts or county court charges. Door step money lenders judgements. After saving regularly may charge interest at 200`x% and for a while, members can apply for more, but the credit union rate is a low cost loan." around 12.68%.

Whilst a regular saving plan The Clivey Credit Union meets should mean no worries for next at the Clivey Centre at the year, many people will be faced Moonrakers roundabout on with the problem of paying back Cricklade Road and is open: this year's overspending.

Wednesdays 10am to 12noon and Julie cautions against taking out Saturdays 11am to 12noon.

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36 The Link Magazine • Ja

2006

LITTER LETTERS

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

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The viewpoint of American resident of Westlea Sarah Fulkerson in the November Link stirred up a response: From Josephine Mangoche I often walk with colleagues First, let me say, having moved to through Westlea to Asda and it is Swindon from America, I find The amazing how many times I have to Link an excellent source for local ask them to pick up after theminformation and services. selves. I have earned myself: 'yes I eagerly await the next edition mummy' every time I reprimand and always look out for the someone and they laugh at me for Trawlerman's coupon to keep up holding onto a banana skin until I with up with great British fish and find a rubbish bin. chips tradition.

Being new to the country I have Like Sarah Fulkerson, I am dis- asked why there so few rubbish mayed that even though rubbish bins around. I was told that the bins are provided, people seem to IRA used to place bombs in them be content just throwing their rub- so the Government did away with bish anywhere. bins. Is this really true?

In addition to fines, I really think more bins ought to be provided.

Would you like your pets But in spite of the litter and 'English weather,' I love Swindon and looked after in the think it is a great place to live!

comfort of their home?

I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals.

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

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New vet for Taw Hill A new branch of Drove Veterinary Hospital opens at Taw Hill Village Centre in early January.

Like the hospital's community practices, such as the one at Abbey Meads Village Centre, the branch will include a reception area, examination room, operating theatre and dental suite.

Vet Andrew Turkington said Taw Hill will be the tenth surgery providing animal care at a local level, close to where owners live, whilst having the back up of a team of vets with specialisms in every medical and surgical discipline, and a brand new hospital.

A telephone number for the new outlet has yet to be announced.

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I heartily agree with the sentiments expressed by Sara Fulkerson.

It is not just children who are litter louts. I live in the Rodbourne Green area and I regularly feed the ducks and swans on a nearby lake.

This lake is also used by an angling club and many of the anglers prefer to leave their carrier bags with the remains of their lunch strewn amongst the bushes rather than take it home. There are no litter bins in the vicinity.

It is a shame that this beautiful area is spoilt. Besides being an eyesore, the rotting food can also be a health hazard to the birds and animals that live around the lake.

From Martyn Smith Sarah Fulkerson's letter on litter was refreshing as it was different from the typical 'doom and gloom' jobs lost, houses being built or people asking for help to support only themselves.

Swindon people seem happy to I think the £1,000 fine for leaving drop litter, evenifthereisabin just dog mess should be applied to lita few feet away. On occasion I ter louts. Why not make the people have picked up the litter and po- who drop the litter pay for the litely informed the offender that council staff who have to be paid they have dropped something. to clear up their mess?

I hope the council and general I often get abuse in terms of 'I pay council tax to pay someone to public get the message that litterpick it up.' ing is not acceptable behaviour and I decline confrontation but show people will value the environment I them how easy it is to spend sec- in which we all have to live and onds to put the litter in a bin. Don't show some respect. they realise that if they did not Thank you to Sarah for raising drop litter, council tax resources the issue and showing that not every one young is ignorant. could be spent elsewhere?

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

From Joyce Herbert, Rodbourne

lit

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The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ January 2006 37

Are you meant to be a mentor?

Do you want to make a real difference to a young person's life? What better time than New Year to think about using your life experience as a mentor.

Wiltshire and Swindon Educa- individual can raise their self estion Business Plus (EBPlus) are teem, confidence and motivation. looking for enthusiastic, friendly Mentors can benefit too: through and committed volunteers to train training, developing new skills and to support, encourage and moti- gaining a huge sense of reward vate young people aged 16 to 19, in from making a difference. particular those facing difficulties.

Mentors receive training, guidHaving a mentor can make a ance and supervision to ensure real difference to young people as they feel comfortable and supthey strive to become the best they ported in their role. can be. Having someone who is If mentoring sounds as if it's for interested in them, who takes them you, call Helena Robinson on 0845 seriously and values them as an 456 8397 for an informal chat.

Moon raker gig to aid Oz project An evening of Irish music and dancing is set to raise funds for the Joshua Foundation, which grants wishes to terminally ill children.

The event at the Moonrakers on 25 February is being organised by Liam Kerrigan from Walcot, below, together with friends Chloe Little from Shaw and Ceri Rees from Purton.

The charity, set up in memory of Joshua Cornelius, has set an overseas challenge called The Oz Experience. To succeed, Liam and his friends must reach a fundraising target. Half of the money they raise will go straight to the charity. The other half will be used to fund a trip to help with conservation projects run by the Australian Conservation Team volunteers. Their work could include everything from planting trees, working at a koala bear reserve, tending to the protection of fairy penguins and learning about aboriginal culture.

Ceri, back, Liam and Chloe

Liam said, "this is going to be a once in a lifetime experience for all of us. We're really proud to be involved with the foundation as there are many children who really deserve a last wish."

Joshua's grandparents will attend the evening to talk about Joshua and the work of the charity.

For tickets contact Liam on 07708 181656, or mail: liamkerrigan8 @hotmail.co.uk . www.thejoshuafoundation.co.uk

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38 The Link Magazine • January 2006

Gems Angels Community Support Services A Company That Cares

Providing: • Assistance with personal care • Household tasks • Laundry service • Shopping service • Pension and medication collections • Light meal preparation • GP and hospital escort duties • Sleep in and night support For: • Anyone who needs a little extra support to get things done • Anyone recovering from illness • Anyone due to age, physical or mental impairment Call us for full details on: 01793 524888 345 Cheney Manor Road Moredon, Swindon Member of the United Kingdom Home Care Association Registered by the Commission for Social Care Inspection

Lego league finals for Swindon team After success in the Swindon heat of the Lego League robotics challenge, team Shell are preparing for the nationals and looking for a sponsor.

Abbey Meads youngsters a technical presentation to the Katherine and James La Fleur judges. were part of the twelve-strong They were also expected to • Swindon Home Education make a presentation on bio-diLiberty Lego (Shell) team versity and problems in the which triumphed over 11 ocean. The group chose to tackle school teams to take a place in sound pollution and the effect the national finals in Loughon whales, dolphins and porborough on 21 January. poises, reading a poem, displaying paintings and playing Shena Deuchars, one of the a five-minute soundtrack. team mentors, is hoping to Excitement is building for find a sponsor to help cover the final. The team is closely travel and accommodation Victory celebrations at the Swindon heat costs. She said, "as the chilanalysing videos of their perdren are home educated we don't The youngsters, aged 10 to 15 formance and fine tuning their rohave the same funding as school years, had to build and programme bot programming skills. To sponteams. It would be great to find a a Lego Mindstorm robot to per- sor the team call Shena Deuchars local business to back us." form various tasks, backed up with on 334673.

Phoenix offers cost effective business solutions In any business, awkward, small tasks are usually time consuming, labour intensive and expensive.

Phoenix is willing to consider plc recovering from mental health However a Swindon firm Phoenix Enterprises in Cheney Manor any kind of work, said manager problemsandpeoplewithsecondtakes on all kinds of work, from Brian Tyler. "We do the difficult ary difficulties such as a physical envelope filling and mail outs to jobs that companies might choose disability, learning disability or small assembly jobs which cannot not to do because it's not cost effec- Asperger's syndrome.

Brian said, "along with receivbe carried out mechanically, such tive to employ staff. as folding and packing materials, "We take on the small tasks which ing a first class service our customand making up boxes, ers are always pleased to know returns value to the business."

They also do the opposite: unOver the next three years, Phoe- they are making a difference to the packing returned mail outs and nix plan to continue to expand lives of people recovering from stripping down old computers to whilst remaining committed to mental health problems."

For details call Brian on 719103. components. their core objective: to assist peo-

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The Link Magazine • January 2006 39

Restoring the Ray. Phase 2 gets underway Work on the next stage of putting the bends back into the River Ray, between Rivermead and Barnfield Road, gets underway towards the end of January.

Leading the project is In the meantime, for more infor' perfect storage areas for the 4: t Wiltshire Wildlife Trust's flash floods that will hap- mation, call Jo on 526229, email or ` water officer Jo Sayers, who pen more often with climate mail: jos@wiltshirewildlife.org www.wiltshirewildlife.org cannot wait to see the river r change," said Jo. attracting a wider range of '' The restoration project is a partnership managed by k, wildlife and also people to ^ ,a^.;w_" `' Wiltshire Wildlife Trust itsbanks. "Manyyearsago, .c-3.

II with funding from the Enthe River Ray was a lovely, T^S , ^ winding stretch of water. vironment Agency, Biffa N m M •^ Later it was straightened ,/ E^ Waste, RWE's Thames Wa ter and npower, Hills Waste, out in order to carry the " :.

Swindon Borough Council water away from the town and Swindon Services. faster, and so that the land around it could be drained ' The work due to start in l late January ve and used."

J y will involve flood at the Ray in early December. The canalised "Since February 2005 river can be seen on the right. The Rivermead industrial bringing diggers onto the site. It will be possible to we've been working along estate and Sha n, Forest is in the background view the progress from the a 1.2 kilometre stretch from the Swindon sewage works to the buntings, which roost in wet mead- vantage point of the River Ray pedestrian cycle bridge.

Great Western Way bridge at ows in winter.

Jo is conducting a guided tour of Mannington recreation ground, to "If you walk through the area at build in bends, banks and water the moment, the roosting snipe will the site on Sunday 19 February, 2pm, and welcomes all interest in plains. This has all improved the fly up from around your feet." river habitat so that dragonflies, "Getting rid of the bends turned the restoration. kingfishers, otters and water voles the river into little more than a drainage channel with almost no can return."

"Today we know that flood de- wildlife. Already, the work we've fence sometimes means allowing a done is turning this area into a river to burst its banks, letting the year-round living spectacle." meadows alongside it fill with While bringing back the bends water. The docks and other plants is restoring the river to a more that have gone to seed on the un- traditional shape, the project will cut grassland provide a rich larder also help Swindon cope with clifor birds such as snipe and reed mate change. "Wet meadows are

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We also offer planting plans, beds and border designs

Ring 01793 485800

Professional care Ott/,y ,o'% for your garden Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning

• Fencing and gates

Specialist paving & landscaping contractors

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

01793 729200 or 07802 752576 Visit our comprehensive website at

www.acerpaving.co.uk

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029

LA I I D ^C A rl l'lr

ts' • 1

r^

l

DAVID HAWKINS

TREE SURGEON All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates II Fears ('Xperience

01793 823257 07050 383060

3

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

• Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas • Contact: 01793 692687 Mobile: 07711 253508 ?!

LAWN & l (EDGE CUTTING PATIO & TURF LAYING GENERAL GARDEN TIDY FENCE ERECTION, STAINING & MAINTENANCE Give your garden a makeover Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556 -mail: davidsmith@garden-groomers.com www.garden-groomers.com

40

^s J

SOLUTION N Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

TRI:L SURVEY NO 1)EPOSIrl^ Work it out for yourself 20 fascia board fitted £ 60 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (pri ces co rrect at t i me of p ubl ication)

For a free quote

e-mail: rmappers@aol.com

S&re bathrooms

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

kitchens Complete installation Very competitive prices Insurance quotes Free estimates All work guaranteed

fi

FENSA

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596

01793 842518 07771 998924

22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett,

email: shirebathrooms@aol.com

LL ^^

I

Registered Company

ASHTREE SERVICES

S

3 Guttering/fascias/soffits and weather proofing ready for winter!

3 Painting and decorating and general room design 3 Woodworking and Carpentry 3 Stylish floor and wall coverings in wood, ceramics, marble and stone 3 Kitchen & bathroom re-fits & refurbs 3 From flat pack to bespoke storage solutions undertaken 3 Clearance/cleaning and restoration 3 Services of fully qualified electrician and plasterer available 3 All work guaranteed and fully insured We thrive on the challenge of the obscure!

Call Phillip for a free consultation Day: 0783 6542662 Eves: 01793 791143

D BUILDING C SOLUTIONS

• Loft conversions • Extensions • Home alterations • Kitchen installations • Carpentry • Wooden/PVCu windows

& doors fitted Quality workmanship Competitive prices For details call Steve on 07793 932481 or 01793 848405

PLUMBING SERVICES From dripping taps to complete bathroom installations 24/365 emergency service No call out charge No job too small • Fully insured' Call Chris Bray on 01793 702171 Mob: 07951 219908 e: aps-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

LEE ORTON PLUMBING & HEATING J Central heating J Boiler replacements Bathroom installations O Tiling J Power showers No job too small Tel: 01793 877275 'Mobile: 07887 541444

seas

ROOFING & BUILDING CONTRACTOR

c^nzi Dcasigns Ltd

M HYND • Repairs or

Loft Conversion Specialists

7,

Bathrooms & Kitchens

complete new roof ..s n Flat roofin g • Repointing chimney stacks or remove • Lead flashing Valleys, tiles, slate ridges etc All wood work Battens, joist beams. pearlings etc Interior & exterior painting and

• • • •

11

Family run business for over 20 years Work carried out by tradesmen not sales men Call for your free no obligation quote: 01793 813603 or 07899 741804 Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in converting 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 convert all types of lofts including modern ' W truss lofts.

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.

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

Freephone 0800 9118695 www.acenti.co.uk

• Laminate & wood flooring • Appliance installation

No job too small Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 874667 Mobile: 07979 267757

Building, Maintenance

o

&Repairs

• Electric showers • Power showers • Replacement taps

• GARAGE CONVERSIONS

• Exchange suites

• EXTENSIONS

•

• Shower Trays And Cubicles i'

• Electrics

towel warmers

• Wall & floor tiling ♦ Carpentry

House Medic

• En-suites Tiling • Towel rails

r-:-

Ideas to reality • Plumbing inc. pumped showers,

• Also other home improvements

decorating

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.

Complete installations to dripping taps

• Complete Bathroom Makeovers • Insurance Work Undertaken

• INTERNAL ALTERATIONS • REFURBISHMENTS • MAINTENANCE WORK • INSURANCE WORK

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

HOME

S, ,

41

Select Plumbing Services

i/

'

Windows. Doors

•J ^^^^^ & Conservatories

Repairs, Maintenance or new installation at a competitive price

Your caring family business

• Everything from a new tap washer, to a complete bathroom suite.

• No job is too small.

• No callout charge.

• Free estimates.

For a professional, reliable service, contact us now Tel: 01793 875888 Mobile: 07951761764 www.selectplumbingservices.co.uk

No obligation, pressure or gimmicks!

For details call 07811 383747 or 07738 004722 Office: 01793 877883 www.inspireconservatories.co.uk Customer recommendations available

®

FENSA

Want your wall or fl oor tiles fitted?

1 S Property Services Ham & Garden Improvements

Then call

TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilcfix4u@aol.com

BRYANT PLASTERING SERVICES All Plastering Work Undertaken Fully Insured Free Quotes Tel: 01793 765531 Mob: 07986 641399

General carpentry Fitted kitchens/bedrooms Laminate flooring Replacement doors • Skirtings Block paving • Patios Fencing • Turfing Decking Guttering/fascia Office: 01793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists

^I

Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. No job too small

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 0795 0017584

^^ D HF Tft !' '_td

Christmas lights taken down!

•3 Eco Combi replacement boiler £1.499 + vat

* Internal & external decorating * Guttering & fascia i All gardening services from a small tidy to a full makeover

:• Boiler replacement only £1,200 + vat All ether plumbing & heating work undertaken

Tel: 01793 772702 Mobile: 07770 555030 ' Prices above subject to su rv e y

176726

^V n 1CARPENTRY 8 BUILDING SERVICES 4• Loft conversions •:• Fitted kitchens & bedrooms • Doors & windows •:• Stairs •: All other carpentry 28

Clean, reliable years experience

Call Derek Ponting now on: Fel: 01793 726750 Mob: 07766 083557

Bru nel Electrical From extra socket to a complete re-wire we can provide a total service to our customers • Test and inspection • Showers • Free quotes • No call out charge • Fully insured • Garden lighting • Part P compliant • Extensions • Fault finding • Local company www.brunel-electrical.co.uk Sales@brunel-electrical.co.uk Telephone: 01793 422880 J 07785 988557 07725 804738

Unit 14a, Turnpike. Blunsdon

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

HOWDENS KITCHENS FITTED

PLUMBING & DIY KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAM IF TE FLOORING

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & Worktops • Electrics & Plumbing Wooden flooring

HOME: 01793 615321

Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture

COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED

28 years experienced tradesman

Decorating & Gardening Services

•• Eco Combi plus seven radiators £2.299 + vat

Steve George

MOBILE: 01175 842241

1 NSID£OIUT

1 E11 APPROVED

Allstaff security checked for insurance and peace of mind No job to small, free estimates Call 01793 347727 M: 07929147195 Email: steve@insideout.me.uk www.insideout.me.uk

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 aide range of fabrics front the comfort of your own home

Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

L J Wilson ^^^ Brickwork EXTERNRL WORK • General property

maintenance • Brickwork/blockworl, • Driveways • Extensions/porches

GP ROE NS • Garden walls/patios • Fencing INTERIORS • Interior & exterior decoration • Tiling - walls and floors All insurance work covered Free no obligation quotation Other works arranged Insured • No job too small

TeIVFax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419 Email: brickwork@fsmail.net

42

BATHROOMS

BATHROO MS

RH

11 Plumbing Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics,

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Tiling

flooring all taken care of

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

01793 876600

07748 964433

DEC ORATOR

& CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving

Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom

A6

& Floors

Paul f

hind

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted UPVC windows ft doors Conservatories, fascias

and guttering Roofing 8- building maintenance

Bathroom and kitchen installations

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DOUB LE GLAZIN G

ri1a,i.ri

DOUBLE GLA ZIN G

from the local reliable company

or 07900 835116

taylormade.windows@ntlworld.com

07968 757860

ROB HALL

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

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

Kevin Rolfe

• Bathrooms • Carpentry & kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Tel: 01793 434184 • 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.uk Our reputation is built on your satisfaction

ELE CTRICIAN

Part P

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

Quality Plumbing & Heating

qi

general maintenance

O Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

INSTALLED OR REPAIRED

HEATING & PLUMBING

-pGENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved

O Household repairs and

• Sockets and lighting • Showers • Consumer units • Extensions • Re-wires • Inspection & testing • Certification • Free estimates

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

Tel: 01793 495365 M: 077438 74621

• Central heating • Bathrooms

& showers • Competitive rates

• All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156

01793 815254 Reg ;87606

or 07747 723606

wise plan

t IJ

20 years experience in plumbing work

Tel:

PLANS D RAW N

^=

doors & staircases O Laminate floors

SERVICES

HEATIN G & PLUMBING

MAINTENANCE

O Fitted bedrooms and kitchens O Replacement

Part P registered to comply with new building regulations

q No obligation quotes

Call Andy: 01793 729354

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

sel?vke^

M.D. ELECTRICAL

J Installation q Double glazing repairs q Fascias & guttering Very competitive prices No hard selling

Call Ray on 0790 9962 770 or 325124

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

CARPENTRY J&1I Carpentry

Windows of Swindon

internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Walls

LJ

BUILDING SERVICES

Reg: 203455

PLASTERING

Brian Jones Plastering Services

PLUMBING _& HEATING Professional & Reliable

& fri endly service

** Dry lining

call 01793 539274

Coving

• Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements • Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small

New or repairs

• Free quotations

Sandra Wiseman plans drawn for and change of use

extensions

for a

professional

or 07773 103926 for a free

no obligation consultation

** External rendering ** Plastering two coat * Re-skimming

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

Y-

t

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43

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

1

Paul Comer

CAEPZNTE

f fainting

Professional

O'SULLIVAN

interior/exterior

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

* Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions k Doors & windows All carpentry work Stairs o^ W s _?u Shop fitting specialist k aP^ For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

and decorating Domestic & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES Quality & Service Tel: 01793 882093 Mobile: 07957 934536

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTR I CIAN

SAFE & SHAW

JC White Electrical Services

1X)iVe Ody

ELECTRICAL SERVICES 3 EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS 3 SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS 3 GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS 3 SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED 3 FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT 3 COMPLETE REWIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE: 07769

PartP

883717 TEL: 01793 876029

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

For all home, garden, small commercial & industrial electrical requirements Rewires, extensions, repairs & fault finding No job too small Advice freely given Tel: 01793 706396 Mobile: 0776 1302831

HOME MAINTENAN CE

,1 O All gas appliances serviced, repaired & 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 flushed

VIt^

Garden maintenance

Turfing, fencing, patios Upvc double glazing Fascias & guttering Carpentry services

' liff.J

7 Quote on request 24 hour call out J Natural gas & LPG qualified

7 British Gas trained

i

Painting and decorating Floor & wall tiling

Roof repairs

(powerflush))

O Hot water systems descaled

.,

Reg 2020

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

PLUM BING Tn.ir^p p U ^ ._4'.

Friendly, reliable & competitive

Cal Glen on: 1 793 487450

° •^

(Y74 841879

30 y ears Plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

•Central heating installations •All Plumbing work undertaken •Servicing & repairs

•Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353

215153 Mobile: 07963 953439 E-mail: towerplumbheat@aol.com

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

Established 22 years

call Paul on

For a professional finish telephone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

0777 5840236 W o r 321981

FLOORING

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

Tell: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

H OUSE/GARDEN D & G HOUSE

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MAST ERFITTER

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

07970 865883 2 5 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

I MAINTENANCE

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 All garden work Concretinc paths Patio repa rs Patio jet wash Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

Building Guttering and fascia All carpentry External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced Y 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

WINDOW REPAIR

NEED A

GIIES BROS

GB Plumbing Services

M J.J.

& GARDEN MAINTENANCE

TI LING

for all your domestic plumbing needs: leaks, burst pipes, radiators, immersions, hot water cylinders, taps, toilets, tanks, ball valves and bathroom installations.

Call 01793 524200

Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing

For free quote

PLUMBING

PLUMBER?

JAMES

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee

l)()('rl'()R GLASS repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double i c) glazed windows Also hinges and locks

on 0778 8444 084

Call: 01793 633336 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs:

or 01793 520526

07976 219671

on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike

SERVICE

44

ACCOUNTANCY Specialising in: Small Businesses Tax advice, planning and

AE RIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE

Services

•

•

TV/FM/DAB aerial s,, • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation

•

payroll

f •

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS

01793 610008

•

All aspects of accountancy and business development We offer a personal service with very competitive rates

Signal amplifiers

No call out charge

or visit www.dykebrading.co.uk to see how we can help your business

i

iJi !

Same day, local service wherever possible

Washing Machines 1 0 Twin Tubs, etc.

Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service • Spares • Re pairs

01225 706379 or 07774 943 783

OOK-KEEPI NG J & D Bookeeping

Can't face doing the ^K books after a hard day's ^_^._ work?

1

=

Tel: 01793 700637

or 07963 637748

COMPUTER SUPPOR1

_COMPUTER SUPPOR

tolmidWinter

Computer/

Computer Services 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 522175 Mobile: 07762 645296

Microsoft

REGISTERED

Member

MAG NET THERAPY

P

g

for

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

Laptop repairs

I

Year End Accounts for small business & Sole Traders Tax Calculations Please contact: Jane Loeber (MAAT) Tel: 07747 844104 e: jloeber©tiscali.co.uk Donna Bailey (MAAT) Tel: 07900 616967 e: don nahailey_3@hotrnaiLco m

COMPUTER SUPPO ^1 ^ C0NPIf1INR

Virus removal etc.

-' Laser printer maintenance Just call Brightwater Systems ltd

www.brightwatersyslems.co.uk

01793 850050 Wootton Bassett. Est 1988

OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

Repairs, Upgrades, Advice, Problems, Viruses Removed.

Flexible hours to suit you.

Home visits, collection & delivery.

T: 01793 778 034 M: 07788 586 779 E: info@ringview.co.uk

REMOVALS & STORAGE

ABBEY ,,t MOVE = r^^q First Class Removal & Storage Solutions

Relieve pain & discomfort with a Bioflow magnet - for people and pets Call (01793) 608840 for a colour brochure

Satellite TV *: Sky & digital terrestial : Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

Storm damage

Call Neil Provis on

BOOK-KEEPING

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors. microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

k'd^

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS

All work guarantee t,

Located off the A419. ample parking 16 Dorcan Business Village, Murdock Road, Swindon SN3 5HY

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Oa

AERIALS

• Quality removals & storage • Single items to full house moves • Complete packing service • Sales & supplies of packaging • Piano removal specialists • A free quotation/fully insured

0800 019 5037 www.abbeymove.co.uk

SKY

Tel: 01193 100018 Mobile: 0717 6236415

CARPET CLEANING

if Whiteway

C

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Capets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured NCC • Quickly usable ^1 You'll be amazed how af'f'ordable it is ...call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 , Email: clirf.whitewav C btinternet.co m

COMPUTER SUPPORT)

Home Computer Help 07947-831378 01793-887883

• IT-2-U•Com P^^41\t^^Fti

--

SECURITY SYSTEMS Electronic Securit y Solutions O INTRUDER ALARMS 0 CCTV SYSTEMS FIRE ALARMS O EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS O ACCESS CONTROL 0 ENTRY SYSTEMS GATE AUTOMATION For a free, no obligation quotation •3• tel: 01793 705216

ssaib

W

SECTOR AERIAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRAVEL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

itEM

MAGIC SAT (European Satellite Specialists) You've tried the rest, now try the best, from aerials to motorised satellite systems.

If we can't do it, nobody can.

• Official satellite viewing cards • Free estimates • On call until 10pm 7 days a week • Free sport Free movies • Free adult • All work guaranteed Tel: (01793) 706921

Connect Ltd Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for holiday makers Competitive prices

-, 1

CAR SER VIC ING

•

MANATHOME

Garage

SERVICING AND REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES OF CARS & LCV'S • Free 10 point winter check • Free collection/delivery or lift to work ( where possible) 7I^^^I • MOT's arranged Retail Motor • Extensive diagnostic facilities r,cl.Wy specialising in VW & Audi F defatio I • Free vehicle wash & vacuum on servicing • Established over 35 years

DATING

•

brands

repairs to

Guaranteed

all makes

repairs •

Establishes 30 years

Guaranteed

• Most leading

of domestic

Same day service

appliances

No call out charge

Same day/next day service

A SUDS

Tel:01793 469300 CLEANING

COMPUTER SUPPORT

IS HOUSEWORK A CHORE?

Corn

Master's PC Repairs

WORRY NO MORE Let Jenny & Sue

►'

Why go anywhere else?

When we'll cone to you.....

CLEAN 4

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

U House, Flats & Apartments Weekly, fo rt nightly or monthly Spring cleans, moving cleans, one offs. References readily available Give us a call for fu rther information Sue-01793 611593 Jenny - 07875 754303

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0792 005 6077

1H

so/t

MUSIC SHOP

Fall in love and make good friends

BRIAN TAYLOR

@ www.astroluvlink.corr

Music

Register in January to receive a FREE copy of nir Destiny' magazine (cdilor: Jiflian de Burgh)

Sheet Music - Music Books Instruments - Music Giftware Classic CDs - NAXOS

info@astroluvlink.com Tel: 0845 408 4806

1 51 High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 840445 www.briantaylormusic.co.uk

SECURITY SYSTEMS

seturity systems ltd Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, industrial and Residential Customers • CCTV • Access Control & Intercoms Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers i 24 Hour Monitorin

TV & VIDE O R E PAIR S]

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

SSa1

'l'

l J

^

Mobile: 07765 224637

Ao

I`

e: info@osesec www.osesecurity.com

Tel: 01793 - 812738

TV INSTALLATION

WIRING & INSTALLATION & TUNING of TVs, DVD players, Hi-Fi's, surround sound.

LCD & plasma systems and videos Free estimates, no obligation

Call Andy on 07900 981144 email: asinstallations@fsmai l. net

46 The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ January 2006

TAROT Readings: accurate, confidential readings on career, life and romance. Tel: Wendy 07716 792520 or Sarah 07914 078805 Training: Learn to read the Tarot in 10 hours -one to one tuition- to professional standard. programmed to your schedule. Certified course. Tel: Wendy 07716 792520

DECOTEX. Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

Y.D. Upholstery Repairs & Recovering Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive prices

LEARN TO PLAY THE VIOLIN with

Should the Shaw village centre play area be removed?

Swin do n Su z uki Strin gs

The Link asked the question. Two residents said `yes.' Here's why.

Suitable for all ages

Lane 01793 700099 http:/Jwww.mab.tgis.co.uk

' DISC SERVICES

Specialist in Cine Film Transfer. Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

CRUISE FOP c Hair re-styled by Rebecca Qualified in all aspects of hairdressing for 13 years Specialising in weddings 01793 825977 after 5pm 07833 391414 mobile

WANTED

For Sale

Two bedroom house in Grange Park for private purchase

Ford Mondeo 5 door hatchback. X Reg (2000) Silver. 55.000 miles.

8mths tax & MOT. ÂŁ2.100 ono

Call 872531

Tel: 608840

G

From Leonora Murray, Old Shaw

wdcoe

James Butcher Housing Association provides a wide range of quality, affordable homes for rent or purchase in central southern England.

We currently hold a waiting list for our two rented sheltered housing schemes in Swindon and hold a joint waiting list with the local authority for all other properties in Swindon.

Tel: 01672 515622 or email enquiries@jbha.co.uk , quoting reference marl/link for more information.

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

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

We would be delighted if this play area was removed. My garden backs onto it and when evening comes it is colonised by drunken teens who smash the equipment, scream and swear until 2am and throw stones, bottles and dog excrement at our house. Saturday and Sunday mornings often start with us cleaning up the glass/litter from our garden before we can use it.

My children cannot leave the house unaccompanied after dark, the neighbours have been threatened and accosted. My husband has been attacked and concussed on one occasion when he went to the area at 2am to ask if the screaming and glass bottle smashing could stop. On another, he was stoned by a crowd of young hooligans.

The police and local councillors are well aware of the problems.

It is a great shame that an area that should be such a delight is, in fact, a source of misery, fear and disturbances.

So, in response to the question, would the residents mind if the play area was removed?, the answer is: it would be an answer to our prayers.

From the November Link, get rid of this misused youth attraction say George Tweed Gardens residents, Sheila Waterworth, Doreen King, Peg Francis

From Mrs Margaret Pugh, George Tweed Gardens With regard to the play park next to George Tweed Gardens, I would be delighted if it is removed.

I have lived here for almost 16 years, during which time we have had nothing but trouble. Apart from those mentioned in the November Link - drugs, broken bottle, screaming, even sex - the play area is regularly vandalised and then repaired by the council, which is a complete waste of money.

Some of the older children are there until midnight, shouting and screaming and disturbing our sleep. Anything you can do to solve this would be gratefull y accepted.

The Link Magazine • January 2006 47

Help Louise learn to walk A little girl's desire to walk unaided has spurred on her parents to take the brave move of going to the world famous Peto training centre in Hungary in February to give her the chance of learning how to.

Louise Fisher, 6, from Haydon the proceeds of the four Christmas Wick, has athetoid cerebral palsy, shows would be donated to which means that one minute her Louise's fund. Combined with muscles are floppy, the next tight, money from carol singing at so she finds it difficult to control Homebase and Sainsbury, £1,100 her movements and also speech. was raised by the end of term.

But her delightful smile and her Heather said that Louise's walkbright eyes tell you she's a livewire, ing and speech had progressed bursting with energy. since she started at Megan Baker A pupil at Westlea Primary House, but she needs more intenSchool, Louise also attends the sive exercise. "The Peto Institute is Megan Baker House therapy cenfamous for its work with children tre in Hereford one day a week for with cerebral palsy. intensive conductive education, a "Louise does not need an operateaching system based on continu bon, but this is a good time for her to ous and repetitive exercises to imgo there. Brandon's mother has plant in the brain the physical given me an idea of what it will be movements needed to control like to live in a strange city for a muscles. month and how to help Louise cope.

She attends with fellow pupil "The trainers at I'eto work the Brandon Humphries, 7, who was children extremely hard and it will featured in The Link during 2004 be very, very tough for her. But she when his parents were raising has a chance of being able to move money for an operation and rehaaround with sticks rather than rely bilitation at the Peto Institute in on a walking frame or be confined the Hungarian capital Budapest.

Heather and Louise will spend to a wheelchair."

When Louise told her mum February in Hungary, but the fees, • If you would like to organise a Heather that she wanted to learn flights and accommodation will fundraising event, or offer cash how to walk like Brandon, there cost £3,000. support. donations can be made at was no question, her parents Neil Louise's grandmother has been Portman Building Society. and Heather had to give her the raising money at car boot sales. But Account L. Fisher. chance of learning whilst she is after a day's takings were stolen at Ac. No. 002 460 74357. young enough to gain all the ben- one event in November, Westlea • Neil and Heather Fisher can be efits of conductive education. headteacher Suzanne Seaton said contacted during the day on 542333.

Supporting youth

What's the answer to life's great questions?

What's the point of life? What happens when we die? Is forgiveness possible? Is Jesus relevant today?

The Alpha Couse is a way of coming closer to some of the answers, without making a commitment to join a church or follow Christ's teaching.

If you're curious, weekly courses start in January. But before signing up, there's a chance to find out more at The Vicarage, Lydiard Millicent over supper on Wednesday 11 January, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

For details call Rev Peter Knight on 772417.

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West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Youth Information Swindon; at 47 Fleet Street. provides information, advice and support for 14 to 25 year olds, and welcomes young people to drop in for help on weekday afternoons and evenings. For details call 496969 or 0787 6282461. www.youthinfoswindon.org

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

Taking the message into schools As the number of teenagers studying religious education rises for the first time in decades, secondary schools are being encouraged by the Government to help students explore social, cultural and spiritual issues as well as gain academic qualifications.

To help with this, North Wiltshire churches and youth organisations have launched the ^, Ncounter Partner'^ . ^<F f f ship to fund a Chri s4' f tian band, called y Collective which starts touring in January. ..

The Collec ive or rom The three trained left, Vee, Rye N i & Beth youth workers will support schools as they deliver perOutside school hours, the band sonal, social and health education, will perform concerts for young as well as religious education, people across the region in churches and youth clubs.

Collective perform live, singing Wyvern winner upbeat modern songs, alongside Four tickets for Peter Pan at workshops, assemblies and lessons the Wyvern, offered in the where pupils can debate contemDecember Link, was won porary issues. by the Olive family of Collective can be found at: Castle Dore, Freshbrook www.collectiveband.com

Toothill Church; Westlea Church

For details of our weekly services please contact the `For God loved the world

so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipofficekbtopenworld. com

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

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