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THERAPY Building for strength CENTRE

The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis has launched an appeal for ÂŁ300,000 to build their own for Multiple Sclerosis facility in West Swindon. Can you help? See page 3

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Link and Oasis Leisure Centres are holding fitness weekends in January. See our New Year Get Fit feature on pages 32 to 37 3,000

Happy New Year from the positive news force in Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

Olympian opens Nova sports hall Olympic gold medallist David Hemery has launched the sports hall named after him at Nova Hreod. See page 2

Carpets can change things The problems faced in Afghanistan appear to be intractable, but a British charity is making a difference and a West Swindon based company is stocking products from Kabul. See page 54 Sales assistant Katie Noriega from Haydon Wick showing off an Afghan carpet stocked

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We want our own school to go to with our friends Oakhurst parents, fearing they will have to send their children to schools all over town, have raised a petition calling on Swindon Council to build a primary school in their neighbourhood. See page 15. Right, young Oakhurst residents demanding a school on the designated site on Pioneer Road

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Superstar winner opens Nova sports hall and pushes leavers to do better Olympic gold medallist David Hemery CBE was the guest speaker at the Nova Hreod Year 11 leavers' evening in early November where he gave an inspirational talk. The audience reacted with ap- three times, as well as becoming teacher training plause when the vice-chairman a leading business development techniques to of the British Olympic Committee coach and mentor in life aware- motivateyoung people to do the ., opened his talk with a video of his ness skills, David recently established the best they can. epic high altitude 400 metres hurdle Earlier in win at the 1968 Mexico Olympics. charity2lstCenturyLegacy,which From then on parents, former is developing aschools'programme the evening, pupils and staff were enthralled to draw out the best in children, unveiling a by his words of wisdom on ways challenging them to 'Live Olym- plaque, David to achieve success in life. He said pian' in body, mind, emotion and said, "I really his sports training had determined spirit. However in 1998 headteacher am delighted to everything he has done since - going Andrew Fleet brought David into open this sports on to hold the hurdles world record, Hreod Parkway School (now hall. With the win the TV Superstars competition Nova Hreod) to develop life skills opportunities presented by the 2012 Olympics and the challenge of the David Hemery, Andrea Fleet with Nova Hreod pupils and growing obe- Greenineadozn under 9s who train in the sports hall sity problem in society, it is a privilege to be associated with this new facility which Had an accident/injured? will encourage physical activity in the community." On the road? At work? On a short tour of the school, he Slip? Trip? Clinical negligence? described Nova Hreod's central You need a specialist who offers: dome as 'stunning and futuristic.' Free Interview 0 No Win/No Fee q3 Legal Aid Q Home Visits "The design of the school must be a significant factor in motivating And is also a: Member Law Society Personal Injury Panel pupils," he said. Member Law Society Clinical Negligence Panel

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 3

Swindon MS Therapy Centre uses The Link to launch its big Moving Soon appeal The Swindon MS Therapy Centre for people with Multiple Sclerosis is marking its 25th year by launching an appeal to raise £300,000 to buy a new building at Rivermead in West Swindon. The centre is entirely funded by donations SW I N and fundraising and ofT T T E /^ j' y l j fers members valuable supportincludingphysC ET'T' RE 1 ^I t iotherapy, high dosage oxygen therapy and a range of complementa ry therapies which help 1 1 11 to support independent rca reisalso ther for Muttipte portffor carers and other port family members. The appeal logo designed by Sam Allen of Over the past three zozozo.elevationstudios.co.uk years the number of people using the facilities has risen centre, 3,000 square feet. from 37 to 125. Centre manager The therapy centre wants to buy Jackie Wraysaid it is bursting at the three units on a new development seams and that there are difficulties opposite Basepoint in Westlea with providing the range of care to which would be built to their specieveryone who needs it, as well as fications.Therewouldbemuchimproblems with parking and access proved physiotherapy facilities and to the present location on Cheney room for the oxygen chamber, used Manor industrial estate. "It's so to alleviate symptoms of MS. An extra £200,000 will be needed important to move to new premises which will allow the Centre to to fi t out the building. meet the many and varied needs of "We're asking all Link readers people living with MS." to be part of this big move. W'e're

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

Mechanics' Trust calls for council's consideration, not cash

Grand ambitions by grand designs guru: Swindon - European Eco-City 2016!

Campaigners fighting to restore the Mechanics' Institution say Swindon Council is turning a deaf ear to their requests to present detailed business plans. The New Mechanics' Preserva- trust has been unable to persuade tion Trust has been arguing for the council to look at their detailed 12 years that the derelict building proposals, which includes council shouldbe a town centre community support for a compulsory purchase and cultural centre, serving the order which would enable the trust same purpose it did between 1850 to apply for lottery funding to buy and refurbish the building. and 1986. It would then be run as a social But current owner of the building Matthew Singh wants to knock enterprise with income from letting down a significant part of it to put space such as shops, a cafe, conferup a glass and brick hotel towering ence facilities and meeting rooms. over the historic railway village. "We would run it on a sound and English Heritage have blocked his viable financial model," said Mr Rose. "The major difference from proposal as inappropriate. A BBC documentary in Novem- other businesses is that any money berhighlighted theimpasse thathas made would be returned to it." Last year saw growing recognileft the Mechanics empty for over 20 years. Interviewed on Inside Out tion of the urgency of the campaign West, Swindon Council leader Rod to save the Mechanics. The Victorian Bluh said that the trust had not put Society listed the Institute building forward a viable business case. as one of the top ten endangered ButonaseparateissuecounBluh buildings in England and Wales. has said he's keen to see £60 million "Hopefully the trust has at long raised from commercial sources to last reached the point from which dig up Swindon for a new canal in our vision can now be shared by the town centre, right outside the all, including Swindon Council," said Mr Rose. Mechanics. The BBC documentary took camTrust chairman Daniel Rose says the Mechanics' outline business eras inside the dilapidatedbuilding. case was first presented to the To take a tour,followthelinksfrom: council in 1998. But in ten years the www.new-mechanics.com

If this proposition were to be put forward by Swindon Council, most people would fall about laughing, but it's the dream that Channel 4 presenter Kevin McLoud is going to put into reality. — I s Swindon Council has '' in fact, been saying it wants to become the most sustainable town in Britain for sonic time, a commitment which attracted Kevin to bring HAB - his newly set up housebuilding company Housing, Architecture, Beauty - to the town. At a presentation of his initial ideas, Kevin Talking details, Kevin McLoud and revealed that his vision of Swindon Council leader Rod Blnh sustainability goes much further than two developments, on project will enhance Gorse Hill a lot brown field land at Gorse Hill and and I hope it will force the volume another at Wichelstowe. house builders to rethink their "Building 500 eco-homes won't designs; they have to make them make much difference," he said. more energy efficient." "Sustainability is more than just Matt Holland from Lower Shaw housing; it will involve the whole Farm said Kevin's plans are great of Swindon. I'm looking at all of for Swindon. "His ideas chime; at its people being part of a greater Lower Shaw Farm we have been scheme. pursuing a sustainable agenda for "AtHAB we're looking at setting 26 years. But his most important up shared heat and light powergen- point is about sharing; people want eration, car sharing clubs, a network to do things together. of farm shops and more allotments "Sharing is our greatest success; to grow food locally. These ideas people love visiting the farm because will need to be applied across whole they become involved. I look forcommunities, not small blocks of ward to sharing ideas with HAB." housing, if they are to have any HAB will be submitting a planrelevance in the longer term. ning application in the early sumGorse Hill resident Emma Gee is mer and hope to start building by i mpressed by the HAB ideas. "The the end of 2008.

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Publisher /Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840 Editorial copy date for February: 7 January

Published: 26 January Copy for March: 4 February Registered in England & wales. No: 4513027 Registered office: 130 High street, Hungerford. Berks. Printed by pep. Telford

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 (9am-3pm) advertising@swindonlink.com February bookings by 4 January "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 5

No need to look east. There's room for 12,000 homes to the west and north of the town say housing companies A vast number of new homes could be built next to North and West Swindon if proposals put forward by housing developers are accepted by Government planners. The Link has been following the option-because of the time it would progress of an instructionby a plan- take to install services. ning inspector in 2004 that land 'to The consortium proposes house the west ofSwindon'hastobefound building in areas where infrastrucfor another 1,000 homes. In August ture is already in place, such as: we reported that a working party • 4,000 units north of Peatmoor of councillors from Swindon and at Ridgeway Farm, The Pry and North Wiltshire had rejected several Washpool; sites because of the road congestion • 3,500 homes at Tadpole Farm, this would bring, with access to Redhouse village However in the last three years, centre and the learning campus; planning strategy has been taken • 3,750 at Kingsdown, south of away from county and borough Broad Blunsdon. Jean Saunders of Swindon Friends councils and is being decided on a regional basis. The South West of the Earth said the arguments in Regional Assembly has already favour of urban expansions rather agreed that Swindon is to become than a new growth area had been a regional growth area and should heard before. "This is how DPDS accommodate 40,000 new homes promoted the Front Garden development as opposed to building by 2026.

An Examination in Public of draft proposals for the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West (RSS) were put to a planning enquiry in Exeter between March and July last year. Thanks to reader Lorna Breslin, The Link was alerted to one of the hundreds of submissions put forward to the planning inspectors. This is the first time any media has publicised the document written by Swindon planning consultants DPDS for a consortium of house builders with interests in sites to the west and north of Swindon. The proposals have considerable significance, given reports in November that the UKs rising population will require another 3 million homes to be built. The draft RSS proposes a major development in East Swindon of 12,000 homes and 950 homes per annum to be built in the urban area. But DPDS makes a case for continuing development beyond the boundaries of the already established areas in North and West Swindon. Their document raises questions about the viability of developing Swindon to the east of the A419 - Swindon Council's preferred

east and then the need to develop at Coate rather than elsewhere. Now they are trying again." A report on the Examination in Public was due at the end of December. Following a brief consultation, the Secretary of State will issue the final regional spatial strategy plan. With the pressure to build more houses in a short time scale, it's conceivable that Swindon could be expanding east in the longer terns and also again west and north in the short to medium term. A copy of the DPDS submission, can be downloaded from www. swindonlink.com www.southwesteip.co.uk

Angry reaction to miserly offer A Swindon Council bid to central government for £130 million to pay for new infrastructure for the town's expansion over the next 15 years has been met with an offer of just £7m. Council leader Rod Bluh, said, "it makes a mockery of the whole growth agenda. Billions are being spent for the two weeks of the Olympics, but nothing to ensure Swindon can grow in a planned way."

6 swindonlink.com • January 2008

West forum to look at council tax proposals Given the state of the economy, the requirement to have good local services and the amount of money central government allows local authorities to spend, the level of council tax from next April will be at the top of everybody's thoughts in the early part of 2008. NowthateverybodyhasawheeThe difficult decisions before Swindon's elected councillors will lie bin, West Swindon councillors be discussed at the West Swindon also want to know how the houseForum on Monday 14 January, hold recyclable and waste collection 7.30pm, in the Link Centre corn- service is performing. Councillor Mick Bray will be munitysuite.Thisisachancetofind out more, voice your concerns and asking for views on the poor state express views as to where money of roads leading off Worsley Road in Freshbrook. should be spent.

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Sunday 6 January, loam to 1pm. Peatmoor Community Woodland group needs help clearing away a recently chain-sawed tree. For details call Roger Ogle on 608840 or mail: roger_ogle@mac.com Monday 7 January, 8.30pm. Shaw Residents' Association is inviting residents to a meeting in the community hall next to Ridge Green Medical Centre to discuss how to keep the village centre tidier. Volunteers willing to commit time to an upcoming spring clean are asked to attend or mail: chairman@shawresidents.org.uk for details. A date will be given in the next Link and at www.shawresidents.org.uk • West Swindon's Conservative Party councillor and parliamentary candidate Robert Buckland turned out on 7 December for another green action day at Westlea Park. They painted out graffiti, removed litter and cleaned up the pond.

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 7

Delicate discussions over farm's future In November 2006 a campaign to save Lower Shaw Farm from closure was successful in getting Swindon Council to reconsider its proposal to evict the tenants of 30 y ears in order to build executive housing. Farm said the trustNegotiations beees oppose house tween the council building on top of and its tenants, the what is now a thrivtrustees of Lower ing educational and Shaw Farm, have recreational envibeen taking place ronment-friendly yet progress i centre in a natuslow. ral farm setting. ti Council leader "It would not only Rod Bluh visited mean the end of the farm in NovemLower Shaw Farm ber 2007 to review a planning brief We're watching you Swindon as we know it but drawn up by con- Council, says Becky Doyley, from would also contravene both the words sultants. It says that the January 07 front page and spirit of the moEnglish Heritage objects to any development to the tion unanimously approved by full front and side of the listed farm- Council in late 2006: 'to retain the house because of the visual amenity farm's activities.' "We understand the council's to Old Shaw Lane. This means any building would take place at the wish to be seen to get what is being heart of the farm, where nearly all called 'a greater return from the value of the site,' but we urge the the activities take place. Rod Bluh indicated that he is Council Cabinet to discover and under pressure to find ways that understand the true value of this the council can realise value from facility, not simply in monetary its assets. "The English Heritage terms. "There is a real opportunity here stipulation does pose a problem. We're keen to see some form of for the council to work with the eco-housing on the site within the trustees to make Lower Shaw Farm council's sustainable development an even more popular, sustainable, agenda, as well as the spirit of the eco-friendly, flagship project for agreement made with the Lower Swindon than it already is." Shaw Farm Association last year." • See www.swindonlink.com for the Matt Holland of Lower Shaw full article with pictures.

Toothill bar may have to call time Falling numbers of users of the licensed bar in Toothill Community Centre could force closure and the loss of income could threaten the centre's future. Centre administrator Annette the centre opened we were all Kennedy said she is worried about younger and this bar was rocking. the impact of falling revenue. "If Now it's a bit quieter and most the bar is not being used, the com- people come in for a drink where munity centre starts struggling there are no children running for money. We really want people around." The bar is open every weekday to rediscover it and help support the centre which is a facility for all from 4.30pm to 10.30pm, Saturday noon to 11pm and Sunday noon to Toothill residents." Licensee Lawrence Score has 10.30pm. There is a nominal annual lived in Toothill for20 years. "When membership fee of £3.

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Sheila brings alive war child experiences Getting first hand detailed accounts from those who lived through through World War II is increasingly difficult as time goes on. but Emma Kimber has had the chance to go back in time with a senior citizen to hear amazing stories that she recounts to children in Swindon schools. Films and books can help us imagine living through the war, but nothing brings it to life quite as much as speaking to a witness of the blitz. Sheila Jarvis from Grange Park which kept her spirits up. was nine when the war broke out in In 1950 Sheila went to Holland 1939. She grew up in a middle-class to visit a boyfriend. They were family in the suburbs of London; still in the aftermath of war, and s 40 her father was a manager at Stan's s ^ remembered how England had Department Store. ^. e liberated them. They showed their But during the depression of the gratitude to Sheila by bringing her 1930s the family had to move to cream cakes and bananas. Britain cheaper housing in the East End. was still in rationing at this point, Her parents never made an issue of and had none of the luxuries people their financial hardship and kept the across the channel were enjoying. spirits of their children up. "People , Sheila was touched by this gesture, were generally more upbeat then-if but was distressed to discover the you lost something, you could make ^ horrors that occupied Holland went light of it," said Sheila. __ through during those war years. When war broke out, she was Sheila continued to live in the old enough to understand what East End until she married and was happening around her. Whils bought a house in the leafy suburbs Sheila shows photos of ber childhood, includittg orze of soldie r J rck her parents and younger siblings of London, where she had her son, back from Dunkirk, to Greendown School Historic GCSE pupils stayed in London, she was sent Mark. She decided she'd dedicate Brandon Walmark, Mitchell Fernandez, Ashley Carrington to Devon for a year, staying with herself to children who were less family friends to get away from the Ham, but West Ham really suffered, scream, it sounded like thousands able bodied and minded as her son threat of bombing. 23 schools were destroyed." of screaming women. After nine had fortunately been. She prides "It was a fantastic year; we had "My parents were wonderful. My months, schools reopened; food was herself on her job as a special needs the most wonderful time, playing mother used to let me go out on my short, it was a terribly boring time teacher for twenty years. in the fields," remembers Sheila. bike as long as I came home as soon for a teenager. I once queued an hour Sheila now keeps busy doing "We did feel guilty for enjoying as the siren went. When we saw the for a pound of tomatoes!" charity work and taking part in ourselves. But my mother told us soldiers who'd returned, they were WhenSheilatellsherstorytochil- events at Freshbrook Evangelical that that's what the boys were fight- such jokers, and so handsome; they dren nowadays, it seems important Church. After her first talk six years ing for; so we could keep having could n't be serious for a second! My that she doesn't edge around the ago at Tregoze Primary School, fun and enjoying living." mother told me 'those are the boys facts, particularly now World War II she has continued, going to many Jack, the nineteen year old brother who are saving us, Sheila." History is in the curriculum."Forty schools around the town, taking of Sheila's Devon friend Vivienne, "My father once thousand people her photographs and turning her fought in the retreat to Dunkirk. called usoutofthe died in London life's experiences into a historical "He'd been in France and we hadn't shelter so we could r during the blitz, account enjoyed by many. heard anything from him, apart seethe flames over and you can't ig-

swindonlink.com • January 2008 9

Volunteering: find your ideal partner in 2008 With almost 700 vacancies on its books, Volunteer Centre Swindon can put almost any talent or interest to good use. As well as helping others, vol- leagues looking for a challenge: If your New Year's resolution is: There are countless ways you 'I want to do something,' Get Vol- can get involved, from working unteering brings benefits to those think garden makeover, creating unteering Week, from 14 to 19 Janu- in a charity shop or youth clubs, involved, like meeting new people, a play area, painting a mural or ary, is the ideal time to match your to helping students with English having fun and gaining valuable building a compost bin. Volunteer Centre staff will be at skills, interest and enthusiasm with language, delivering fridges for new skills and experience which West Swindon Centre on Wednesa requestforhelp.Theweekwillalso Refurbiz,manningthephonesfora will look good on any CV. Volunteer Centre Swindon can day 16 January and in the Brunel celebratetheworkofvolunteersand bullyinghelplineordoingyourbit thank those who already commit for the environment in a multitude also match projects in need of Centre on Friday 18 January The Volunteer Opportunities' people power with groups of colof projects across the area. their time and effort. Bus will also be touring the town during the week. The timetable

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Carers from across the town came together for information, support and complementary therapy on Car- empowerswindon.co.uk Contact Volunteer Centre Swiners' Rights Day at the University of Bath Oakfield Campus on 7 December. A cheque for £224m was present- Michael Barnes to draw attention to out by carers in the town. Carers UK don on 420557. www.swindonvolunteers.org.uk ed to the Mayor of Swindon coun the value of the unpaid work carried recently calculated that an average carer offers £15,260 worth of unpaid care each year. Do you want to make a Although they are saving the difference to people's lives? country billions, carers do not claim I Are you willing to undertake everything they are entitled to said NVQ training in Care? Swindon Carers' chief executive, Mutsai Hove-Bird. "There is a Do y ou have your forty to sixty per cent underclaim own motor transport.' of benefits due to care. There are 0Y-12 0] WE ARE LOOKING FOR 87000 000000 man y who are not aware of their VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE rights to time off work for caring to join our team to undertake responsibilities which came into £n4^oo^ care work in the community force last year." especially evenings and weekends ALL CORERS If you care for somebody and sw^Ra0 7 1 Wood Street need to find out what help and Caren support you could receive - or know Centre Swindon urfi": somebody who cares - call Sandra Telephone 01793 542285 The Mayor accepts the symbolic cheque from carers Toby King, Diana Carpenter and Chapman on531133 or mail: sandra. for an application pack Yvette Pinheiro with Michelle Howard, chair of the Swindon Primary Care Trust, chapman@prtc-swindon.org K

Mutsai Hove-Bird, Swindon Carers Chief Executive, Anne Snelgrove MP and corm David Renard, Swindon cabinet member for housing and social care

A New Year - the beginning of the end? The festive season can be anything but for some couples and a new year fills them with dread. If things are coming to an end, it's possible to make change less painful writes Trevor Morkham, Mediation Practice Manager at Family Mediation Swindon As the religious significance of Christmas has become less relevant for many people over the years, it has increasingly come to be viewed primarily as a celebration of family life and an occasion for family members to enjoy spending time together. This need not be the case. Family However, for many families particularly those struggling with Mediation provides an alternative financial worries or where the way for couples to take stock of relationship between the parents their situation and, if it is clear is strained - Christmas can simply that their marriage or relationship exacerbate an al r eady difficult is at an end, to calmly consider the situation and multiply the stress decisions which needtobetakenfor and pressure on everyone. It's not the future benefit of themselves and surprising then, that agencies con- any children they may have. This is not necessarily an easy cernedwithhelpingfamiliesreport a significant increase in calls early process but it is one which offers in the New Year, whilst January to couples the prospect of retaining March is the peak period for divorce control of their situation (rather than placing themselves into the applications, When tempers are frayed and hands of a solicitor or subjecting people reach desperation point, themselves to the lottery of the they may act impulsively or in courts) whilst hopefully preservhaste. Things may be said or done ing enough goodwill and mutual which might be regretted later but respect for them to be able to work which nevertheless put couples on together as parents for their chilan inevitable collision course with dren. If mediation is going to be your one another. If they feel their marriage or relationship has no future, next move, contact the Family often a visit to a solicitor is seen as Mediation Service through the advertisement on the right. the automatic next step.

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10 swindonlink.com • January 2008

Elsie Hazel boosts Callum's appeal

Council adds a star

Swindon people have responded with enthusiasm to a heartrending appeal to help fi ve year old Callum Kaye from Penhill receive possible life saving treatment in the USA.

Swindon Council's Adult Social Services department has taken a further step in improvement by gaining another star rating from Government inspectors. Despite facing stiffer criteria, the service is described as 'good' with 'promising' potential for furtherimprovement, according to an independent report

J';

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published today by the Commis-

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Elsie Hazel residents with Callum's gran Jackie Kaye, centre Residents at Freshbrook's Elsie whelmed by the response of Hazel Court organised an all day Swindon people. We can't thank fundraising event, including a everybody enough." bingo session, party night and huge The family hopes to travel to the raffle in early December to raise USA in April. Meanwhile, Callum £880 for the appeal. is beginning to recover from a seCallum has a rare medulloblas- vere fi t in October which left him toma brain cancer and no further paralysed. Now following a whole treatment is available in the UK. The food organic diet, the family have family are pinning their hopes on been amazed at the improvement. cutting edge techniques available Doctors did not expect him to regain at the Memorial Sloan Kettering movement, but after four week he Cancer Centre in New York. But a has taken a few tentative steps. The deposit of £175,000 has to be paid number of fits he has each day has before treatment can begin, fallen from thirty to one. Court resident Gill Russan said, The healthy eating regime was "I thought to myself, Callum could recommended to the family by be one of my grandkids. We a ll had campaign organiser Kevin Wright to help." whose son has been treated for the Ca ll um's grandmother Jackie same cancer. Kaye said, "we have been overwww.callumsappeal.co.uk

Inspection. In 2003, before

Starry eyed, care home manager Sue Bushell with residents it was reorganised t Fessey House in Haydon Wick, Fred Marsh, Lorna Foster, and combined a Iris Reeves, Stuart Wilmot with housing, the council's social services department poorly the service was rated just a was zero rated by inspectors few years ago." Haydon Wick councillor David Swindon was one of the first Renard, cabinet member for health, councils to make a joint appointhousing and social care, said, "ev- ment with their local Primary Care eryone involved with Adult Social Trust (PCT). Caroline Fowles curCare in Swindon, staff, service users rently holds the position of Chief Exand carers, are delighted. ecutive of Swindon PCT and Group "I would like to thank all of the Director for Housing & Adult Social care staff and officers who provide Care with the council. care and support to the vulnerable The CSCI report highlights adadults in Swindon for the hard vantages of this partnership workwork they have put in to drive up ing, stating, 'people will benefit the quality of services in all areas. from efficient, reliable and seamless The dramatic transformation has services in years to come because been a tremendous team effort, the council has taken bold but especially when one considers how well-considered steps to establish

Are you disabled? Ever thought of starting your own business? Ready to Start, a new initiative which helps people with a disability to become their own boss, is being championed by South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove. The scheme run by Leonard vice and information about relevant Cheshire Disability, in partnertrade bodies and business associaship with Barclays Bank, throws a tions to help network locally. lifeline to disabled entrepreneurs Anne Snelgrove said, "Ready .+ across the UK. to Start equips its disabled clients Clients who sign up are paired with the essentials to succeed and with a business 'buddy' who will •I plays a vital role in assisting people offer support and help them overbecause it helps motivate self start. 1 ers to create genuine employment ^ come the common obstacles that ^^' people face when starting up a .)^^ ^^A A. opportunities." business. Disabled entrepreneurs For details call Johnny Coleman receive free computer equipment Lots of help on offer for self-starters on 01666 5057. says Brian the Bulldog and software, training, start-up adwww.readytostart.org.uk

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integrated working across Adult Social Care and the PCT.' Coun Renard added, "the challenge now, is to justify the assessment of 'promising prospects' and to make further improvements to the services that are delivered so effectively but which rarely receive public recognition." Residents of Fessey House in Haydon Wick were pleased to hear the council has been commended for improving its services. "The care we get is excellent, the staff don't get enough congratulations," said Lorna Foster. "They are caring, lovely people. They cannot domore for us than they do."

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Taps could be turned off X

793 74 54

Asda Walmart has proposed to Swindon Council that the much enjoyed dancing fountains at North Swindon District Centre could be removed because of the high cost of maintenance and repair.

Loads of fun at North Swindon. From the April 2 2. ink front page, the first ti fountai = #were fea used in any publication

The Works Redhouse Village Centre Priory Vale SN25 2FW info®theworks-swindon.co.uk www.theworks-swindo ri .co.uk

^' 9 The water feature, installed in early 2002 cost around £500,000, but The Link has been told that the design and equipment was never up to

the job and it was out of action for several months last year. Swindon Council planners have told Asda that the council strongly objects to its removal. • Marks & Spencer is proposing to open a branch at North Swindon District Centre in half of the huge unit occupied by Homebase to sell furniture and clothing, and possibly open a food court. Asda Walmart is likely to object to food sales but ward councillor Justin Tomlinson is enthusiastic about the proposal. "This is fantastic news. Marks & Spencer will bring a tremendous choice to residents and I've received many positive comments as the rumours have circulated."

Is there such a thing as community in Abbey Meads and Priory Vale?

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Twelve years after the first homes were occupied in Swindon's 'northern expansion' at Abbey Meads, and six years after the first people arrived in Priory Vale, The Link wants to hear readers' views on whether there is such a thing as a community in the area, or is it just a soulless dormitory with a large shopping centre in its midst? Over thirty years ago, as the first tual meeting place at Redhouse Viifamilies settled in West Swindon, lageCentrehavestalledbecausethe the population was more vocal developers are demanding a comin their demands for facilities. A mercial rate for the land set aside. number of community meeting SwindonBaptistChurchwouldlike halls within walking distance of to move into Redhouse but cannot homes were built, and the Link afford the asking price. Flux, the three-year arts proCentre provided a centrally located gramme based at Isambard could recreation and leisure site. North Swindon isalmostentirely play an important role in bringing aspeculativehousingdevelopment people together. "We're starting to with a limited number of social and do more community work and the community facilities. Until the Pri- people we're reaching are getting vateFinanceInitiativeschoolswere a lot out of it," said programme completed in Priory Vale in the last co-ordinator Jo Beale. "We've made year, the only meeting points were good connections with the library; the church at Abbey Meads centre, they see their facility as a commuAbbey Meads, Bridlewood and St nity space." Francis Primary Schools, as well as In December Flux organised a a couple of pubs. family puppet workshop at North However residents with the Swindon Library which followed means have been able to join ex- the successful Big Draw event in pensive private sports clubs. November. At Priory Vale, with limited opThe Link has reported events in the portunity for community meetings area since its beginnings. But we'd or parent and toddler groups, no like to get an up to date perspective pub or church and only a recently on what it's like living in North opened Tesco convenience store, is Swindon. We want tohearfromyou. itpossible for people to get to know Are you proud of your community their neighbours and feel a sense of or have you yet to meet your next belonging? door neighbours? Mail: publisherkf There are complaints that the cost swindonlink.com renting facilities at the PFI funded • Taw Hill photographer puts North schoolsistoohigh.Plansforaspiri- housing in focus. See page 22

swindonlink.com • January 2008 13

It's good to talk but BT wires still crossed on North Swindon broadband Despite promises from BT OpenReach that they would provide information and updates on work to migrate lines to a new exchange, confusion still reigned as the switch began. Engineering work intended to calls to Virgin but the first I knew improve broadband services, left of the problems with the exchange many homes with no connection at was when The Link magazine was all after OpenReach, the company delivered." responsible for the local network, Chris Orun, OpenReach press began transferring users connected officer, said that all internet service to theBlunsdonexchangetothenew providers should have been aware Haydonexchange,onThamesdown of the work. "The ISPs have been Drive in mid-November getting regular briefings from BT The switch over was originally Wholesale and from OpenReach. scheduled to begin in September, If people are having problems, when beleaguered broadband us- they need to take it up ' ith the ers seeking answers began sharing service provider. We can't deal with information on a forum at www. individuals: our customers are the thinkbroadband.com which has service providers." However John Small of Openreceived hundreds of posts. OpenReach eventually published Reach has e-mailed a Link reader a work programme on their web to acknowledge that they are exsite. However, the forum continued periencing technical difficulties in to buzz as work began, with people migrating lines to the new exchange reporting that they had lost broad- and no timescale to complete the band altogether and that work was work can be given. Details of the current schedule already behind schedule. Among those affected was Sue can be found at www.openreach. Bibb from Oakhurst who thought con there was a fault with her equip- • Virgin have offered Sue Bibb ment when her broadband was compensation for a week of lost disconnected. "For a whole week, service, but not the cost of new we've had no broadband. I spent equipment or an engineer call out. money on a new router and £50 for Are you demanding recompense a computer expert. I made countless from your ISP?

Tesco invests in Red Oaks The new village centre on Millgrove Street in Redhouse is starting to come alive after Tesco Express opened on 7 December.

Nathan Neate, rear centre, with his staff, and Red Oaks headteacher Terry Peacock and children opening the new store

The convenience store with over 2,500 products joins The Works hair salon which opened in September. Three more units will be occupied by the Spring, including Strakers Estate Agent, a dental surgery and a fish and chip shop. Children from Red Oaks Primary School on the adjacent Learning Campus were invited to cut the ribbon and were presented with a cheque for £500 by store manager Nathan Neate and his staff. Abbey Meads resident Nathan said, "we are delighted to be able to offer our support to Red Oaks

Primary School and would like to thank the staff and pupils for agreeing to join us to officially open our new store." "Myself and all the staff aim to make Tesco a key part of the Priory Vale community and look forward to welcoming customers from across the area." Plans fora pub, other retail units, business premises and apartments will be revealed at a public meeting, alongside site plans for a church, healthcentreandshelteredhousing scheme. This is likely to take place in February.

14 swindonlink.com â€˘ January 2008

Bike for Christmas? Have it security stamped at police surgery in January The West Neighbourhood Policing Team needs your help to make West Swindon a safer play and wants residents to contact them, in person or by e-mail, writes Police Community Support Officer Amanda Baker. In January myself and PCSO the spate of street robberies by Luker will be holding a police sur- gangs during December, mugging gery every month in West Swindon individuals for'phones, MP3 playLibrary at the Link Centre starting ers and money. If you are unable to come and see on Tuesday 8 January, 4.30pm to 6.30pm. We will welcome callers to us, please mail: voice concerns regarding any police amanda.lukerCwiltshire.pnn.porelated matters that could be affect- lice.uk or amanda.baker@wiltshire.pnn. ing you or your community. We will also pass on comments police.uk to Swindon Council about anything â€˘ The West NPT is split into two they are responsible for, such as out teams South and North. The North of action street lights, overgrown team (covering Shaw, Spacells and footpaths, fly tipping and graffiti Peamoor) is made up of three conto be removed. stables PC 2370 Maryam Jafari, the At this surgery we will be offering beat manager, PC 2366 Vicky Pegrum a free bike marking event due to the and WPC 788 Pat Salter. We also have two PCSOs 6157 Amanda Baker and increase in bike thefts in the area. We also need information about 6034 Amanda Luker. The South team, which operates in Toothill, Freshbrook, Grange Park and Westlea, is made up of five constables PC 1036 Tim Titchener who is the community beat officer, PC 1989 Loz Copeland, PC 1835 Sean Tregunna, PC 2313 Tom Turner and PC 1987 Stefan Watts. They also have two PCSOs 6072 Richard Lane and 6161 Tristan Winter. The Sergeant for the West is Conway The West's Amanda',, PCSO Luker and Baker Duncan 1926.

C 12. ' 8

Responding to community comments The neighbourhood police teams were out in force at village centres across West and North Swindon at the end of November to talk to residents about local crime and safety issues.

Meeting the people in Abbey Meads, from left, Jess Price of Fleur the florists, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer Pam Pixton, PCSOs Dave Galagher and Pablo Gomez, NEO Michelle John

Swindon Council neighbourhood engagement officers were also in attendance to find out problems that council departments should be dealing with. PCSO Pablo Gomez said a lot of useful information had been given. "Apart from crime matters, it's good to meet people to chat about their concerns such as anti-social behaviour and mini-motos being ridden on footpaths. There is a lot of concern about congestion outside schools. The Learning Campus in Priory Vale is particularly worrying

because drivers drop children off before rushing to work. It's easy to lose concentration and not see pedestrians." He added that youth intimidating shoppers at North Swindon District Centre was an issue, but many people want to see more activities for young people across North Swindon. Neighbourhood engagement officer Michelle John said she had noted many examples where shrubs next to footpaths have to be cutback and street lights repaired.

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 15

Temporary classrooms could be the start of a permanent solution There could be classrooms on the designated primary school site (PS7) in Oakhurst within 18 months, but this is not soon enough for frus trated parents who have raised a petition to be presented to Swindon Council's cabinet on 23 January. ings on the site, and to federate the A public meeting called by North school so that some facilities could ^r Swindon MP Michael Wills in be shared. Coun Perkins estimates November to discuss the shortage that a temporary facility could be o '^ of school places in North Swindon place within 18 months, costing heard that Swindon Council i about £2 million, including the / u considering installing temporary installation of services suitable for . classrooms off Pioneer Road in a later permanent building. '^ Oakhurst He said, "we don't have £7 milDespite agreement by the cou p lion for a permanent build. The p^, cil cabinet that there should an council will soon be looking at the 41 1 another form of entry at St Francis k • capital budget for 2010 onwards; we i in Taw Hill, there is an anticipated know we need these places but it's ,;,. shortfall of 30 places a year from about finding the funding." , September 2008. Coun Perkins said that the " J, ( Phoenix Garden resident Richard council expects to know by March tl Kirk is dissatisfied with responses if the money will be available for from the council at the meeting. His temporary provision. daughter, Lilly, is due to start school However North Swindon MP in September. "In our small area '° Our children need a local school say Oakhurst parents at the Pioneer Road site Michael Willssaid thecouncil could there are five children ready to go. They could be placed in five differ- master plan agreed by Swindon or four years. The number of houses proceed if they want to. "I cannot ent schools and that's not good for Council planning committee in already built equals the number understand why Swindon says their social skills, nor our attempts 1999. However a consultants' report predicted for 2011 according to the there are no capital funds available. They know how much extra money to build a community. in 2003 concluded that it would original plans. Coun Perkins said that the need they have got from the government. "The council won't commit to not be needed and the plans were anything; I feel they want to use shelved. The council has retained an for a school is now clear. "We want They may choose not to spend some the land for something else and option to build on the site which is to go ahead with PS7 as we know of this extra funding on PS7but that they are fobbing us off. I want still owned by the North Swindon we need to increase the number of is a decision for them. "They have got the funding places over the next couple of years them to confirm what's happening. Development Company. Most people bought houses here Councillor Gary Perkins, cabinet by two more forms. If we don't use if they choose to spend it at thinking that there was going to councillor for children services,said PS7foreducationuse,itwillgoback Oakhurst." The petition organised by Barry that house building in North Swin- to the developer." be a school." One option to speed the process Davis can be found at: www.goThe land for PS7 was shown don has progressed more rapidly on the Haydon III development than anticipated over the last three would be to put temporary build- petition.com

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Friends fund computer upgrade Haydon Wick Primary School is now able to offer one computer for each pupil in ICT lessons, thanks to help from parents.

C AIN UP THEATRE SCHOOL Give ch l'dren= sk llssneeded tope Eorrm at the top, of the class for the lrest of their lives. Friends nice-chair Jenny Jones cuts the ribbon to launch the nno' ICT facilities with treasurer Maria Edwards

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Over the last year the proceeds from Christmas and summer fairs, school discos, raffles and a 50-50 club contributed to the school budget to enable computers to be replaced and facilities improved. Jenny Jones, vice-chair of the Friends of Haydon Wick, said sharing was a thing of the past. "The computer room is now much

Dads Ellis Jones, Robin Jones and Charlie Munro followed up Derek's hard work by spending networking the machines. Headteacher Simon Cowley commended the team effort. "The fundraising and the practical work has been tremendous; we've seen an immediate bene fi t in children's

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 17

An excellent report for Catherine Wayte As the Christmas term came to a close at Catherine Wayte Primary School, staff and governors had cause to celebrate with an Ofsted report which described the curriculum, leadership and management of the school as outstanding. As well as opportunities for The inspectors, who visited The Blackthorn School the school in November, praised lea rn ing, inspectors commented of Photography the learning experiences on offer, on the pupils' obvious enjoyment Digital image-making 0 which they said were enhanced of school life. Parents and carers and black and white printing :by an excellent range of visits and had told inspectors that this was based at our specialist special events. "The outstanding as important to them as academic teaching centre near Cricklade curriculum includes exciting op- progress. Evening, day and weekend " The report commended the portunities for the whole school courses for beginners and to work on common themes, such excellent behaviour in the school advanced photographers as healthy living or mul ti cultural and the good relations between www.photography-courses.com the children, supported by initiaawareness," said the report. Tel: 01454 416937 tives such as a buddy scheme, Mrs Brierley, left, zcith acting deputy or 07920 116492 pairing children across the head Rachel Farmer and Catherine age groups for support and Wayte children friendship. Headteacher Laura Brierley, who took up the reins at Catherine Wayte in January, was praised for her leadership which inspires staff at all levels. 1 3 For ages 6-16 Professional Tuition 'All members of the senior leadt4 Individual workplans 3 in English, Maths ership team are having a very 3 Qualified teachers & Science positive impact on school effectiveness and driving achieve3 SATS/GCSE/exam prep Free Assessments ment and standards upwards,' 3 Unique programmes ( wrote the inspectors. Kip McGrath - Swindon ^r 3 Proven success Mrs Brierley said she was Unit 83. Basepoint Business Centre, delighted that the high quality 3 Affordable rates Rivermead Drive, Westlea SN5 7EX Catherine Wayte teacher Kamal Miah or- of educa ti on at the school had ganised a sponsored after-school dance class been recognised and that the to raise £300 in December for the victims of inspectors saw it as a friendly November's Bangladesh cyclone. The former place. "We really do value clubber who moved to Swindon from Luton each child as an individual. four years ago took 50 youngsters through The ethos of the school is very their R'n'B, pop and Saturday Night steps. inclusive." .4>

Knights and damsels of Haydonleigh will be shared with Dracula studies Classrooms became a mini-Camelot for a week of activities in early December based on King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table at Haydonleigh Prima ry. Inpreparation,therewereschool C 13 mer0f trips to Windsor and Warwick castles. Throughout the week chilr yr dren worked on topics including :. n E ^ ti ^' ► .y castles, knights and the Arthurian legends, culminating in a whole school banquet. Children dressed as knights and ladies and brought along their trusty steeds in the form of hobby horses made from broomsticks. Haydonleigh is involved with schools in Romania, Spain and Ireland as part of the European Union Comenius Project and books made by the children detailing everything they have learned will be shared Fantasising about Arthur's land, with partner schools to foster cul- Joshua Ralph and Tia Heath tural links and understanding. Teachers from all three partner topher Columbus and in Romania schools have visited Haydonleigh pupils are getting their teeth into after staff from each school travelled stories of Count Dracula. "We're in a very good group," to Spain in May. Trips to Romania said headteacher Lilian Stevens. and Ireland are planned for 2008. All four schools are working on "The teachers from the other projects about myths and legends to schools are super. It was interesting share. Irish youngsters are learning to hear what they said about our about Finn McCool, the Spanish school and it made us realise how school is exploring the life of Chris- we take things for granted." .

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Dalmations provides a place for deaf and hearing parents and toddlers to be together

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"We also welcome hearing parents and children who want to broaden their awareness. Children pick up signing very quickly and soon you can't tell whether they can hear or not." Lucy is also involved with the Deaf Essential Access Forum, DEAF, to address the shortage of appropriate services for deaf people in the town. Spokesman Adam Walker said that there is a void in service provision with no community centre or youth service, and access to health and social service is severely restricted because of communication problems. Since their launch last January, the group has worked with Swindon Council to find a new venue for the Deaf Social Club which meets at Ferndale Working Men's Club on the second Wednesday of the month. A youth club is also in the pipeline. For details text 0773 340 0976. www.swindondeaftoddlers.com www.deaf-forum.org.uk

LITTLE FOXES CHILDCARE & EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356

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Dalmations was formed in May 2006 to provide a meeting place for families with deaf children or parents. The group grew too big for its room at Robert le Kyng Children's Centre and with sponsorship from Barnados, they decided to move to Upper Shaw Farm in September last year and now meet there every Thursday between fpm and 3pm. Lucy, who is profoundly deaf, has two hearing sons. She felt there was a need for a group for any combination of hearing and deaf parents and children. She believes it is particularly important for hearing parents to be able to meet deaf adults which can provide reassurance that deafness need not prevent their children leading normal lives. She said, "we think there are many parents with deaf children or are deaf themselves who would li ke to attend the group, so that their children can mix with others and they can get advice and information on services for deaf people - such as they are.

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swindonlink.com • January 2008 19

Children's Information to move to council's One Stop Shop A charity which has been keeping parents informed since 1999 will close at the end of March but the services provided by the Children's Information Service will continue. Although the CIS name will thousands of people contact them formation about issues that concern disappear, staff will transfer from via the information centre and their them both as parents and as citizens Theatre Square to closeby Watt associated web sites. Carmel Bur- of Swindon, all in one place. "Assistance for parents to find Tyler House on the Civic Offices ton, manager of Swindon Surest art site, off Beckhampton Street. Their Partnership, who has responsibility financial help with the costs of work will be integrated with other for ensuring that the information childcare will also continue." Some of the work that CIS did information services provided at service is delivered, said that the the One Stop Shop managed by CIS has been a hugely beneficial as a charity will be taken over by Capita, the company contracted by service in Swindon and she is opti- other partners. Aproject which supSwindon Council to provide arange mistic that the changes will benefit ports toddler groups was funded by a Big Lottery award of £90,000 of services including customer ser- children and families, "Over the years, the CIS has and the remainder of the grant has vices and human resources. The CIS deals with queries on evolved and we've always tried been transferred to the Pre-school issues such as childcare, children's to do what's best for families in Learning Alliance to continue this activities, family support or where Swindon. The move will mean that work. to find financial help. Each month parents can get a wider range of in-

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Melinda Messenger visiting the CIS shop in Market Street in 2001

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

Lost roads are cause for concern

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Following the December Link's story on the problems faced by Jeff and Nicky Northam of Wynwards Road, Abbey Meads, when an ambulance could not find their home because it fronts onto Cagney Drive, readers have pointed out two more roads that nobody can find. Paul Beare of Sandbourne Road in newly built Haydon End called us to say that nobody can find his street. Sandboune Road is off Casterbridge Road, but houses numbered on both roads face each other. Road name plates are poorly placed whilst Paul Beare, zaith one of the confusing signs in his nets' visitors will be com- road pletely confused if they drive into and a half miles from one side to the adjacent Guernsey Lane to see the other." a sign for Sandbourne Road. The lost road connection was first "Deliveries are always going raised in The Link by Ted Spalding astray and the drivers just take from Toothill who has been camgoods back to the depot if they paigning to have houses fronting can't find us," said Peter. "It needs Idovers Drive but addressed as sorting out." Beverley more clearly signposted. By contrast Colin Goddard has • The Link is drawing these roads lived at The Elms in Nine Elms for to the attention of relevant counover 40 years and he doubts the cillors. emergency services would be able If you're in a difficultto find locato find his house. "The problem is tion, let us know on 608840 or mail: that there are three streets called The publisher@swindonlink.com Elms - one of new houses opposite We will also be trying to make the Nine Elms pub, a stretch to the our acclaimed maps of North and west of the pub, and our houses West Swindon clearer. at I to 10a which are on the back road from Tewkesbury Way to Common Platt." "But there is a gate blocking the road, separating our houses from the others in The Elms. It was put there when the new houses were built. Unless emergency crews know, they could be on the wrong side of the barrier. Firefighters have bolt cutters to get through but it would take another 10 minutes for an am- LongtimeresidentofThe Elms, Colin Goddard, separated bulance to drive one from his neighbours

After nearly twenty years in existence, there is only one, solitary road sign helping drivers find Peatmoor and it's in a remote location, at the top of Swinley Drive off Purton Road. Try and find Peatmoor from the south, off Whitehill Way and Tewkesbury Way, and you won'tbe successful. There is no indication where the 800 homes are.

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Swindon is rubbish! It's ugly, dirty, boring, there's no community spirit, nothing ever happens, there's no culture, all it has is a roundabout, and that's rubbish too. Do you agree? asks Mike Pringle, Director of the Swindon Cultural Partnership, the independent body that brings together business, arts organisations and local government We've all heard things like this said about our town. But is any of it accurate? Okay, maybe the town centre isn"t exactly an architectural gem, and maybe the Magic Roundabout is our most famous landmark. But actually, many of the things people think and say about Swindon are simply not true; we have become victims of a national joke. Thankfully, there finally seems to be some real movement to improve things. Huge amounts of money are being spent on regenerating the town centre, you can see the cranes and building sites everywhere you look. And recently the Swindon Cultural Partnership has joined the battle, developing itself to become one of the major champions for positive change, particularly when it comes to the town's cultural activity. But to be of any real value, the partnership needs to understand what people really want when it comes to things like arts, heritage

Keeping a finger on the poetry pulse Pulsar magazine, published by Ligden Poetry Society based in Grange Park is looking for entries to its annual poetry competition to be judged in May 2008. Poems of up to 40 lines on any subject can be entered for a fee of £2.50 for the first poem and £1.50 for subsequent works.The closing date is 30 April with results announced in May. There are prizes of £125, £75 and £50. The judges are interested in hard-hitting, thoughtfully written work. They are not so keen on deeply religious poetry, poems about cute kittens or monotonous rhyming couplets. For poets who like to perform their work, Ligden Poetry Society organises live microphone poetry evenings around Swindon. www.pulsarpoetry.com

and leisure. Perhaps more importantly, the partnership needs to be able to stand up and shout about the things that are already happening, because, when you peek beneath the surface, there really is so much already going on. As our low unemployment figures demonstrate the people of Swindon are not idle. The borough is home to some 180.000 people and within that population just about every aspect of life is represented. Take the music scene. Everyone knows that the town produced XTC and Gilbert O'Sullivan, but it has also turned out dozens of other contemporary musicians, some of which are, right now, poised for greatness. Swindon also has far more than its fair share of brass bands, country & western singers, military band activity, youth orchestras, rock schools, bowl concerts, and a multitude of choral groups. In fact. Swindon Choral Society will soon be celebrating its eightieth birthday. And just look at Radio 2: Mark Lamar is from Swindon, as is Tim Smith, co-presenter of Steve Wright's afternoon show. And of course Billie Piper is becoming a highly respected actress. But is music your idea of culture? Or art, literature or heritage? Perhaps you're into martial arts, chess, woodturning or ballroom dancing. Maybe you would rather take a photograph than stare at a Lowry painting, or search for rare editions of comic books instead of

reading Shakespeare. Whatever your view of culture, the Swindon Cultural Partnership would like to know about it. If we know what you want, then we can fight for it. United, we can change the world's perception of us and our town. Swindon is, above all, the people who live and work here. We're not rubbish; we're great, and it's about ti me the world gets the message. To contribute to the debate about Swindon and its culture, mail: Dr Mike Pringle at mike.pringle@ creativeswindon.org.uk www.creativeswindon.org

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Share your memories of Swindon life Artist and photographer, Lynette Thomas, works part-time for Octobus and decided to collate a fundraising book after the charity's lottery grant was not renewed. With its converted red double decker, the project tN ° E takes art to people who are isolated by financial hardt . ° { ship, lack of facilities or locat tion. "It's been going for thirty years and it's doing a lot of * ` good work in the community, I'd hate to see that end," she

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Swindon - the Good, the Bad and the Ugly will be a tongue in cheek look at how ^. t Swindonians see their town. Andy Partridge of XTC cons •. tacted Lynette and has given her a rare interview with his views on the town. So far, Coate Water, Old Town Gardens, the Literature Festival, Mela and Forest Festival One of Lynette's surreal images have been praised. The town of Swindon centre and bus service have come in for criticism and the Me- could ask their older relatives for chanics' Institution in its current contributions and has started with her own mum, who has written state has been described as ugly. Lynette wants to collect more about her wedding reception at memoirs and would love to hear the Mechanics' Trust including a about events such as the 1969 FA trip to the cinema to see Finian's Cup Final, the Beatles playing at Rainbow with her guests. Contact Lynette on 07765 Mcllroys, landmarks such as the Locarno or celebrities like Diana Dors. 801949 or mail: akmosaics@yaShe suggests that Link readers hoo.co.uk

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Swindon Wide Documenting the Northern Development A college course has prompted Leanne Sidney from Taw Hill to consider the changes in housing built during the past ten years in North Swindon and she has already amassed 1,400 images. Throughout the Autumn Leanne, right, was taking pictures for an end of term project for her foundation degree in photography at New College. She has had to distil her research down to just 15 pictures. Her project records the change in house design from ' the more traditional look of Abbey Meads to the variety to be found at Priory Vale. Leanne moved to Swindon from Australia ten years ago when North Swindon was still green fields. She was familiar with the area but looking people in the newer homes feel at house types though her camera about living in such close proximlens has been an eye opener. "We ity to one another. She suspects drive past it but we don't really see they become more introverted. Although she had plans to focus it. When you get out and walk the streets, you might come upon an on portraiture when she began the apartment building out of the blue. course in September, this topic It can be difficult to see things from has captured her imagination. She a car; the styles and density of de- thinks it may become an ongoing project and is considering mountvelopment is hidden." Leanne is interested to see how ing an exhibition in the spring.

Release your writing talent in 2008 For over a year writers from in and around Swindon have been gathering at Lower Shaw Farm, once a month, at The Writers'Caf6 says co-organiser and local writer Hilda Sheehan. The evening finishes with an The group started with 5 writers and now numbers over 20. The open reading session, a chance best thing about this gathering is to listen to others and gain confiits diversity; many walks of life and dence in reading aloud and sharages are represented, from writers ing writing. Lower Shaw Farm offers a in their 20s, 30s, 40s, right up to unique environment, large sofas, budding authors in their 80s. It includes people completely a warm wood fire, plenty of nature new to writing as well as more and the chance for a swing in the established novelists, poets and hammock if seeking inspiration. non-fiction writers. An e-mag, The Writer's ExpresIt is a fantastic night out, not so, a collection of work by local just for writing: it includes food and people, is mailed out monthly. To drink brought by the writers and receive a copy. or for details of the shared by all. This creates a re- group, mail: swindonwriterscafe@ laxed and communal atmosphere; yahoo.co.uk everyone feels at home and able The next get-together takes to share their works, achieve- place on 31 January and newcomers are very welcome. ments, and news.

Overcome fears of speaking up For anyone who is ever called upon to say a few words or to make longer speeches Swindon Speaker's club is the ideal place to gain confidence. Now in its 25th year, the club say what you mean can help in job meets at Blunsdon House Hotel interviews, in the workplace or at on the first and third Thursdays of social events. the month at 7.30pm. Beginners The club's publicity officer, Niare made very welcome and no- gel Besant, said Blunsdon House body is called upon to speak until Hotel has the right ambience for they feel ready. structured and formal speeches. Members learn skills which will "It's a superb venue and is ideally allow them to speak with confi- located for people from all over the dence in any situation. This does town." For details call Nigel on 729403 not always mean making speeches or presentations; being able to www.swindonspeakers.co.uk

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Putting Celtic spirituality in its place Despite the fact that the University of Bath is pulling out of Swindon later in the year, the public lunchtime lectures series is to continue at the Oakfield Campus from January to March. The first of seven lectures takes sic and beliefs. place on 29 January when Dr Rosemary has lived and worked Rosemary Power talks about Celt- in Swindon for the last four years, representing the churches in a is Spirituality - Fact or Fashion? She is an expert in Scandina- variety of roles and is minister to vian-Gaelic studies and will be Swindon Moravian Church. talking about the roots of Celtic Lectures take place between spirituality, what it means, why it 12.15pm and 1 .30pm. The fee of burst upon our consciousness at £6.50 includes a sandwich lunch. the end of the 20th Century and Details of the other six lectures why are all things Celtic so prized, can be found at: www.bath.ac.uk/ The talk explores the modern at- lifelong-learning/gulp/swindonintraction of Celtic art, literature, mu- dex.shtml

Close harmony for charity Swindon's premier close harmony singing group returns in February with an all new spine-tingling programme of classics by Fleetwood Mac, Phil Collins, Don McLean, Eric Clapton. Supertramp and The Rat Pack. Enjoy the provocative music from the film The Mission and the fun and excitement of the spoof sci-fi sketch 'Spaced Out', featuring the characters of Star Trek, Star Wars and Thunderbirds. Finally, shake up the concoction with a bit of James Bond and you really will have a night to remember. Carrying on their tradition, the 16 singers of Ten in a Bar will be supporting a charity. The proceeds of the performance on Thursday 7 February will be donated to the `Forget Me Not' appeal in support of Leukaemia Research. Ten in a Bar will be at the Arts Centre from Thursday 7 to Saturday 9 February, 7.30pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 2pm. To book tickets at £9.50, conc £8.50, call Jane Hodge on 881798 or the Arts Centre on 614837.

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New for 2008. The Link will be publishing unusual and interesting images of Swindon. Above, an overview of Blunsdon by-pass construction taken from a Clear Prop Microlight in October. Work on the two mile by-pass, awaited by Blunsdon residents for over twenty years, started in 2006 and is expected to be complete by the end of 2008. Developers of Abbey Stadium, in the middle of the photograph. are looking at rebuilding it at a right angle to the existing site, alongside a business park and some 450 homes next to St Andrews' Ridge. For more images of Swindon, see www.swindonlink.com and www.swindongallery.org.uk

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Tel: 01793 431992

CandTes Crystafs e .fart Suppfies The source of the crystal

Swindon's largest supplier of Yankee candles • Competitive prices with a personal service • Unique gemstone jewellery set in sterling silver • Personalised handmade candles for all other occasions • Psychic evening parties • Workshops in tarot card reading and crystal healing • We stock everything from angels and calming meditation CDs to gemstones, wands, incense sticks, inspirational cards, books and dream catchers • Bob Ross stockist and workshops

Vo.

2009

For your entire spiritual needs, come in and see us at: 53 Godwin Court, Old Town, Swindon. Tel: 01793 613419

www.bestcand[e.co.uk

Swirdkr Wide Lydiard's Tudor past uncovered Lydiard House has not always looked like it does today and recent conservation building work at Lydiard House has revealed some of the hidden secrets of the building that pre-date the Georgian remodelling of the house, writes Sarah Finch-Crisp, head of Heritage at Swindon Council. It is known that Lydiard House, the country seat of the St John family, was re-fashioned in the 1740s in the classic Palladian style but the earlier house dates back to Tudor ti mes. The St John family prided themselves on their family connections with the royal Tudor dynasty. Above the extraordinary painted triptych in St Mary's Church is a portrait of St John ancestress Margaret Beauchamp, whose daughter Margaret Beaufort was the mother of Henry VII.

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The positioning of these windows indicates that the floor levels in this earlier building were different to that of the current 1740s house. Other visible features include some mason's marks cut into the quoin - the cornerstone that anchors the edge of the building wall, that would have been made by the later 16th or 17th Century stone-workers to identify their work. There is also evidence of a front door and porch which was the original entrance to the house, facing the church.

Fake That Friday 9th May 2008 Summer Ball Friday 15th August 2008

Burns Night Friday 25th Janua ry 2008 Valentine Evening

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Friday 15th February 2008 Queen Tribute Night Friday 14th March 2008

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Rat Pack Tribute Night Friday 26th September 2008 Ladies Night Friday 24th October 2008

70's Night Friday 18th April 2008 'All events include a 3 course dinner, disco and bar.

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Lydiard House c. 1700. Image: Warwick County Record Office Family connections were maintained during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. who visited John and Lucy St John at Lydiard Park in 1 592 whilst touring the country. Her huge retinue would have camped in the park and she would have been entertained with her closest companions and advisors in the house. It is most likely that John St John was knighted by Elizabeth during this visit. His portrait and that of Lucy his wife can be seen in the State Rooms at Lydiard House. Preparations for the visit must have been immense and it is evidence of this early house where the occasion took place, which was revealed during the recent restoration works. Clues to the style and fabric of this much earlier Tudor building were discovered when the thick layer of 1950s concrete render was removed from the whole of the northern, rear elevation of Lydiard House. In between the large Georgian windows the mouldings and stops, which surrounded the heads of windows belonging to the earlier 16th and 17th Century house, could be clearly seen. Some of these related to existing openings but in several cases these were the remains of windows which have been blocked and abandoned during later al-

terations.

These historic features have been surveyed, photographed and new architectural drawings will be produced to give a reconstruction of the appearance of the house before John, 2nd Viscount St John commissioned the remodelling, by the eminent builder Roger Morris, in the 1740s. The old 20th Century render had to be removed as not only was part of it shearing away but damp was being trapped and causing severe decay to the parapets. This is in part due to the restoration made by Swindon Corporation in the 1950s, when quality materials were not available. Sixty years on, with the benefit of better methods and materials, our specialist contractor Nimbus Conservation has completely rerendered and lime-washed the rear of the house using historically appropriate materials, as part of the on-going historic conservation programme for this Grade I listed building.

Volunteers needed in the park During Get Volunteering Week. 14 - 19 January. BBC Radio Swindon will be calling for people to turn up in their hundreds on Saturday 19 January to clear away grass which is choking some of the 1 1,000 trees planted in the park during the last 1 8 months.

Old Bell Pottery Crafts &

High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: enquiries@oldbellpottery.com www. oldbellpottery.com

SPECIALISTS IN DOLLS HOUSE MINIATURES Traditional games and toys. Local craft items

FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS Knitting Et Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan — Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns Mail order service available.

In the stable and garden A great selection of local pottery. China seconds from -on-Trent. Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world Mon to Sat loam to 5pm • Sun 11 am to 5pm

Swir .kr Wide WhCAVS Find your own space... IN BUSINESS, MAKING THE RIGHT IMPRESSION MATTERS. Basepoint Business Centre, Swindon offers modern offices and workshops to let. With a full time on-site management team offering a wealth of services and support, where else is there to go for an image conscious business?

Film Wednesday 9th, 7.45pm Away From Her (12A) A powerful love story about an older couple who are separated by Alzheimer's disease, with outstanding performances from Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsett. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 16th 7.45pm Once (15) A young busker meets a young, beautiful Czech immigrant. Within a week, they have created enough material for an album. £4 Arts Centre Friday 25th, 7.45pm The Painted Veil (12A) A slow burning romance of love lost and regained is set against the backdrop of rural China in the 1920s. Based on the novel by W Somerset Maugham. SFS. St Michael's Hall, High worth Monday 28th, 2pm Bollywood Day: Chak de India (PG) A former Indian hockey team captain is given the task of leading the new women's Team India.This is a chance for the girls to make their nation proud and for their coach to reclaim his lost honour. £5. Wyvern Monday 28th, 7pm Bollywood Day: Omkara (12A) Based on Shakespeare's Othello and set against a background of political warfare in the interiors of Uttar Pradesh. Omkara follows one man's descent into sexual jealousy. £5. Wyvern Wednesday 30th, 7.45pm AftertheWedding (15) An aid worker returns to Denmark in search of funding for an orphanage in India, butfinds there are lots of skeletons in his cupboard when he meets his mysterious benefactor. SFS. Arts Centre Thursday 31st, 7.45pm "I" For India (15) A chronicle of immigration in sixties Britain and beyond, seen through the eyes of one Asian family and their movie camera. £4. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only It is possible to join on any film evening.

Out and About Saturday 26th, 10.30am Braydon Bird Trek with the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Identify winter birds on this 5 mile walk from Ravensroost Wood, near Minetyto Red Lodge Pond and back. Optional lunch at Royal George, Purton. Bring binoculars. Meet at Ravensroost Wildlife Reserve car park. £1. To book call Rupert Gulley on 526560

Music Saturday 5th, 8pm Craig, Morgan & Robson. A heart warming and joyous celebration of winter traditions. Carols, songs and folk tales from one of the folk scene's most acclaimed harmony groups, plus a selection of songs from Swindon Scratch Choir. £7. Arts Centre Thursday 17th, 8pm Park Bench Social Club. One of the new generation of bands that mix musical genres with abandon. Influences include traditional folk, Celtic fiddle tunes, blue grass, gypsy jazz, Bhangra and old time Americana. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 17th, 7.30pm

Ska Insania. Tribute band Complete Madness, present a musical dedication to all the groups responsible for the two-tone sound and 80s Ska revival, including Madness, The Beat, The Specials, Bad Manners and The Selecter. £14.50. Wyvern Wednesday 23rd, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital. Sally Stocks on flute and Paul Turner on piano perform an entirely French programme To Sunday 6th specially designed to encourage a Rags to Riches? What does the relaxing lunchtime experience. £5. much-loved tale of Cinderella mean Wyvern to you? Buttons, glass slippers, rags Sunday 27th, 7.30pm and tatters, Prince Charming, fairy The Barron Knights. The long servgodmothers, mice or ball gowns? ing pop comedians play rock `n roll, Free. Wyvern blues, soul, and a slice of country Thursday 10th to 2 February plus a good sized helping of fun. Resolution. Multi-media exhibition £15. Wyvern showing various artists' interpretation Wednesday 30th, 8pm of the meaning of resolution. Free. Castradiva. A fictional play about Arts Centre the castrato Pedrolino, `II Magnifico', To August 2008 featuring some of the greatest arias Resonant Forms. Exploring the written forthe castrati of the eighteenth dynamic relationship between artists' century. Seven arias and seven scenes ideas and the ways they structure tell the story, populated by six charactheir work. Free. Swindon Museum ters adorned with costumes, wigs and & Art Gallery commedia masks. £12. Wyvern

Exhibitions

Or in )anucrq Children & Family

Comedy

To Sunday 6th Jan, times vary Cinderella. Awicked stepmother, two silly ugly sisters, Prince Charming and a beautiful coach and ponies combine to create a magical pantomime. Britt Ekland stars. £9. Wyvern Thursday 10th & Friday 11th. 7pm Robby Hoody and his Twelve Incredible Men presented by Dorcan Performing Arts Group. If you like carnivals, weddings, bows and arrows, the Eurovision Song Contest, this musical show is the one for you. Adults £4, concs £2.50, tickets from 727420 or 339344. Dorcan Technology College, Covingham

Monday 14th. 8pm

Theatre Monday 14th, 7.30pm Circus of Horrors: The Asylum. On the fringes of Paris, a former madhouse comes to life. While the city sleeps, the inmates run riot. New acts and new shocks join all-time favourites, entwined with oddities and death defying circus acts. Not suitable for young children. £16. Wyvern Wednesday 23rd to Sat 26th, 7.30pm Over the Moon presented by the Phoenix Players. A wild and wacky farce filled with comic invention, running gags and a sense of absurdity. £6.

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Friday 25th, 8pm Jongleurs Comedy Club. The Wyvern plays host to the comedy circuit's brightest stars. For over 18s only. £10. Wyvern

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' Winter Image' Bonsai Show Saturday 16 February 11am to 4pm Coleview Community Centre, Towcester Rd, Coleview, Swindon Further details call 07971 862358 www.swindon-bonsai.co.uk

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Mark Watson: Can I BrieflyTalkTo You About the Point of Life? A regular on BBC2's Mock the Week. Mark (above) begins a national stand-up tour. £13. Arts Centre Wednesday 16th Frankie Boyle Live. SOLD OUT

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Blunsdon House Hotel generations of exceptlona'. service

Blunsdon, Swindon SN26 7AS www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

"A taste of â€˘r the Orient in the heart of Swindon" 1 1-12a Theatre Square Swindon

Telephone: 01793 523570

Swindon Wide New at the library Swindon Libraries has a new stock of recent release DVDs on its shelves including 1408, Two Days in Paris, A Perfect Day, American Pie: Beta House, The Bourne Ultimatum. Simpsons: The Movie, Surfs Up, Transformers and more. Many of the titles are available to hire in the 48 hour Fast Film collecti on at central library.

Home Library needs users The Swindon library service for people with a long-term disability which prevents them getting to a library or who are recovering from a stay in hospital or long illness at home is looking for more users. They have plenty of volunteers at present who can choose and deliver books, audio and visual items from the library but they need people to deliver them to. If you require some help, or know somebody who does, call Home Library coordinator Debs Osorio on 707127 or mail: dosorio@ swindon.gov.uk

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Swindon voices to fill the airwaves A radio station with a difference launches on 14 January: all the presenters, researchers and technical staff are volunteers and there will be no on-air advertising at 105.5FM Currently known as Community broadcast. The station also hopes Radio Swindon, the official name to provide a platform for local muis to be chosen from competition sicians to share their talents. Cornentries. It has a five year licence munity groups are encouraged to to broadcast programmes under be involved with the station and the headings of arts and literature, to use it to promote their interests community, music and education, or services, with the possibility It will be funded through grants, of running a series of features to cover a topic in depth. donations and corporate support. On weekdays, the aim is to proVolunteering will be the main topic in the first week of program- vide an hour of programming from ming, to coincide with Swindon schools and colleges presented by Volunteering Week: 14 - 19 Janu- young people when possible. Ian Rowe will present a request show ary. Listeners can expect to hear from midday to 1 pm every weekdebate on topical issues, stories, day called Work, Rest and Play. For details about helping, call poetry, plays and documentaries. Writers are invited to submit any Shirley Ludford on 612517 work they consider suitable for www.communityradioswindon.com

Win the latest Highlander The latest in the phenomenally popular series of Highlander movies is released on DVD by Momentum Pictures on 7 January and we have three copies to give away. world, the eponyWe also have three mous Source. Highlander style letter This is definitely openers for runner for the hi-def genups. eration, the latest Highlander: The in a franchise that Source, starring encompasses five Adrian Paul (building li ve-action movies, a on his previous role feature-length anime in Highlander: Endfil m, an animated TV game) is the latest adseries and two liveventure,packedfrom action TV series. 1 ' start to finish with the Play the game at kind of eye popping, t www. high Ian derthe cutting edge visuals ^game.co.uk for which maverick www.highlanderthesource.co.uk science-fantasy movie director and To win a copy worth ÂŁ15.99, tell digital visual effects pioneer Brett us the name of those the movie Leonard is best known for. Chronicling the origins of the seeks to chronicle. Entries should Immortals, Highlander: The Source be sent to the address on page 4 also stars Thekla Reuten, Peter by 9 January. Wingfield, Jim Byrnes and Cristian Winner of The Bi D Solimeno in an epic adventure that The DVD set offered in the ecem sees Highlander Duncan MacLeod ber Link has been won by George (Adrian Paul) embarking on a quest Tomkins, Thornford Drive, Westlea. to locate the Holy Grail of their

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A Now Easy Wby to 044 FR In 08 I)o you really want to get fit and be in your best shape ever in 2008? If so Expert Personal Trainer Richie Jeffers recommends you try something New for the New Year - Try Rebounding. Rebounding simply involves bouncing on a mini-trampoline. Sounds easy and it is, but best of all it works and you will notice great results.

Rebounding is 68% more

efficient than jogging and 87% less shock to the joints. This means you will burn more calories without the damage to your joints. The low impact workout will help tone up, increase bone density and boost the immune system. Richie uses specially imported rebounders which give a softer bounce than some less expensive versions. The exercises suit all ages and is good for those with joint problems or injuries as its low impact. Not only is rebounding a tremendous all round workout, it is also a lot of fun. Classes take place 6pm Monday andTuesday, and 8pm Wednesdays. The first is FREE, but spaces are li mited so please call Richie today on 07743 108775 for details.

Put a spring into 'our step this yeai at one of Rich/es rebounding class

Richie is also the UK importer for ReboundAir Rebounders, so if you want to know more about the best built Rebounders around that will keep you fit and healthy for life then please contact him. www. Rebound in.com

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Motivation is all it takes for rejuvenation Find the free route to fitness here If there was a product on the market that promised younger looks, a longer life and a slimmer figure, it would be a sell-out in no time at all. Diet books fly off the shelves significant changes in outlook, in January, and over Christmas, attitude and body shape in 6 to millions of pounds will have been 12 weeks. spent on potions and lotions promForget the scales and the stress ising to turn back time. they cause when those numbers Ironically, the best route to health reveal the truth of what's on them. and beauty is still overlooked by Focus on a target like fitting into a two thirds of the population; there favourite pair of jeans or competis a readily available way to extend ing in a fun run. life expectancy while reducing the And here's a great target. The waistline and achieving a healthy Link has been promoting the Mad glowing skin. March Hare at Lydi and Park for the The good news is that it costs last three months. absolutely nothing in financial It's a 10k run or power walk and terms. But you could see it as an 5k family run for men, women investment in your future life. and children being organised by What is it? Walking women involved with Swindon The benefits of taking a little Twin Peaks and Breakthrough regular exercise are astonishing Breast Cancer. and well documented: reduced The Oasis and Link Leisure Cenrisk of heart disease and diabe- tres are holding get fit motivation tes; protection against cancers weekends in early January. See of the colon, breast and prostate; page 34 for details. clearer skin and improved mental What about making the MMH agility. the event you're going to get fit Personal trainers and fitness for, as well as raising money for experts all say that most people a great cause, whilst supporting have more energy after a few a hard working group of local exercise sessions and y ou will see volunteers?

c/o Cannons Health Club, I i :-

PY CENTRE

www.hypoxi-therapy-centre.co.uk

Greenbridge E Retail Park. a

To book a FRE E Taster, ring John

07710 533727

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Tot up your Christmas day blow out

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It might be fading into the memory bank but just to remind you how BEGINNER many calories you could have consumed: KICKBOXING 1',^^ • Turkey stuffing, roast potatoes, which is not good for you or you CLASSES! 1=• roast parsnips, boiled carrots, control calorie intake and burn off • Lose those extra pounds, get fit sprouts, pork sausage, bacon, bread the excess through exercise. sauce, cranberry sauce and gravy. It will have so many benefits in • Learn to defend yourself Calories: 956 terms of muscle tone and looking • Meet new people • Christmas pudding and brandy good, stress reduction, boosting = • Train in a safe & confidence and general outlook butter. Calories: 423 friendly environmen on life • Two mince pies with cream and a • Come & train with Over these pages, check out who 5`h Dan, Clive Elliott share of the chocolate box. Calories: you could talk to about taking upp yoga, pilates, walking, rebounding, • Two glasses of mulled wine, aerobics or martial arts, or getting Calories: 490 p with making lifestyle some help g y • Based on just one 2,000 calorie changes in 2008. Christmas dinner, an average man weighing 80kg (12 stone 8lbs) will need to walk 18 miles–or a woman No longer just for the rich and famous... of 60 kg (9 stone 6lbs) 24 miles Semi-permanent on the flat to burn off those excess calories. eyebrows And what about all the othBeautiful eyebrows every day! er meals and booze consumed • Ideal for ladies with fair or throughout the festive season and sparse eyebrows into the New Year? • Typically lasts 1-2 years The British Heart Foundation Also: eve/flier & lip/our treatment claims the average Briton puts on 51b (over 2 kg) in weight at ChristEyelash extensions mas. Every pound of fat contains Fabulous, weightless lashes 3,500 calories, so that's 17,500 that last for weeks! calories to burn off. There's no easy way out. If you're serious about getting control and losing weight, either you stop eating

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Total Martial Arts Premier Academy Confidence, Self Discipline, Respect, Fun, Self Defence Sport, Fitness & Flexibility ... Everyone joins for their own reasons - what's stopping you? Classes in Toothill, Nythe and surrounding areas

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Children and families welcome Callfor detail s:

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ASHTANGA YOGA & PILATES COURSES

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PILATES CLASSES Mon: 7- 8pm (Beg) Shaw Mon: 6 - 7pm Cricklade Tues: 6.30 - 7.30pm Tues: 10 - 1lam Priory Vale Wed: 7.30 - 8.30pm Tues: 8 - 9pm Thurs: 6.15 - 7.15pm (Beginners)

Haydon Wick Cricklade Priory Vale

Mon: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) Priory Vale Tues: 7.30 - 9pm Mon: 7.30 - 8.45pm Wed: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners)

YOGA CLASSES

Details of all classes from Dawn Morse BSc (Hans) on 700659 www.achievesuccess.uk.com

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Acupuncture and Reiki Clinic Su Bhagi Bsc(Hons) LicAc Simon Blemings Bsc(Hons) LicAc RN

Call 01793 608776 www.energi.uk.com 42 Basepoint Centre, West Swindon

Get healthy, stay healthy, with

HOMEOPATHY Phone for information on low cost clinic places still available

ALLERGY TESTING 150 foods and airbourne irritants tested with instant results. No needles, no blood tests Ruth Derham, PHSH RSHom 4 High Street, Purton 01793 772883 Regctered member of

The Socie ty of Homeopaths

on 01793 747663

or 07896 666006 email: rn.webb@virgin.net Based in North Swindon

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Due to the growing demand for personal training Les has now opened a personal training studio at Basepoint Business Centre Come along to the open day and see how the team can help you keep your New Year's resolutions! • One to one training- at the studio or your home • Exercise programmes to follow at home • Fitness testing • Lifestyle checks • Fitness classes — Core, Salsa, Circuits and many more

• Absolute beginners running courses • Slinn AIIStars Running Club

Active Swindon call-out for volunteer walk leaders Active Swindon is holding a training session for Swindon residents wishing to become walk leaders on its Health Walks Programme on Thursday 17 January, 9.30am to 3pm, at Swindon Council's Premier House office. There are now regular walks health walks leader. "Our Health Walks Programme from Broadgreen, Pinehurst and Penhill,aswellasNordicwalkingin is a great way of helping people Old Town, each led by two trained achieve the five recommended sessions of exercise per week, and walking leaders. The programme is supported by there are numerous proven health The Natural England Walking for benefits to regular walking. It can Health Initiative, which oversees reduce the risk of cancer and heart the training and quality of leaders disease, delay arthritis and help to and walking programmes across reduce weight. There is also time the country, and has already helped for socialising afterwards, meanimprove the fitness of thousands ing that as well as getting people active, leading our walks is also a of people. Nan Pratt of Active Swindon said, great opportunity for making new "if you enjoy walking, want to im- friends." To find out more about becoming prove your health, and would like to help others do the same, you are a walking leader call Nan on 466202 on the way to becoming a qualified or mail: NPratt@swindon.gov.uk

Biggest ever fitness and dance weekend

• Group training

• Nutrition and weight management advice

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Swindon Council's premier leisure centres have teamed up with the volunteers who are organising the Mad March Hare run, power walk and family fun runs around Lydiard Park in March, after reading about the event in The Link. On Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 Two fitness weekends in early January will be a great time to get January Link Centre, Oasis and your new year's fitness/ weight loss High worthRecwillbelaunchingsix resolutions into action and to give new Body Training Systems fitness you a focus to keep your exercise programmes for over 16s. regime going in preparation for They include: • Body Attack, the high the MMH. energy aerobics and What's more Swindon Council conditioning workout; 7 is offering its 31 day trial of fitness facilities in all their centres for just • RPM studio cycling programme; £29 throughout January. • Body Step aerobic step workout, • BodyPump strength and Cambridge muscle tone workout; ^eot,:,,o:an • Body Combat martial arts Swindon, l6 March 08 based workout; Do you want to lose weight fast? For details call the centres listed • Body Balance yoga based And do it safely? on the back page. workout. The Cambridge Diet is your answer! Members of Swindon Twin Peaks On Sunday 13 January, the Oasis I can help you lose your weight fast gym will be celebrating its first an- power walk team will be at the and show you how to keep it off. niversary with a day of 20 minute leisure centres to tell you about the As an accredited Cambridge Counsellor taster fitness classes and they are Mad March Hare which is being I too have lost and maintained organised to raise awareness of all free. my own excess weight using the Cambridge Programme Try the Body Systems classes the work of Breakthrough Breast now you can too. listed above as well as circuits Cancer. Contact Nicki in complete confidence www.swindontwinpeaks.org and ABS.

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Get ready for The Mad March Hare at Link Centre and The Oasis

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Tel: 01793 703156 UNIT 86, BASEPOINT BUSINESS CENTRE, RIVERMEAD DRIVE www.Ispersonaltraining.com

bpm active and the Next Generation Fitness Club in Swindon are holding a weekend of Freestyle Fitness and Dance, to showcase new presenters and fitness and dance classes on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 January, Earn to 6pm at the new Next Generation Club in Swindon. It's open to anyone over the age of 14, all fitness and dance enthusiasts are invited to come along, support their local instructor, see new and international presenters in action and try out the amazing sessions. The cost is £25 for one day or just £40 for the whole weekend. Team up with five others and there is a group discount.

See details on page 33 or www.bpmactive.co.uk/freestyleshowcase

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Caine (ian

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International Council

`bringing 6aCance &I harmony to C fe'

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Clinic

Looking for peace and tranquility? Like to feel more positive about life? Feeling stressed, out of balance or unwell? w Want some time for yourself?

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Call today: 01793 b70426

on 01793 871120

Training also in Reiki I, II and Masters and short workshops.

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or 07967 363322

Please call Jane Seward, Reiki Master/Teacher, MA on 07798 846191 or email: life@carnelian.org

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HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

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Reiki is also available for cats, dogs & horses

I T.E.0 (dlp), I I.H H.T

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GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

A New Year - A New You!

the Ca—mbridge ]DietI

balanced nutrition wide range of flavours flexible programmes one-to-one support includes stabilisation & maintenance

Classes available in:

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call Nicky on 01793 322179 email on ngilpin@ntlwortd.com www. ro semaryconley.com

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Class Fee-£5.50 Membership Fee-kl0 'Tnalists lost on average 7.251bs in two weeks. ' Valid until: 29/02/08 Cut out this ad and b ri ng it with you to claim free membership offer,

Call Lisa on 01793 320444 ^

What have you got to lose?

free membership wo rth £10 plus free portion pots wo rth £4.99 when you pay for six weeks in advance

Photos - Lisa Curtis, local Cambridge Diet Counsellor

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Going the extra miles for Shelter Her goal was to complete the Swindon half marathon but now that Anna Richardson has got into her stride she has decided to enter the London Marathon in aid of Shelter. Anna spent ten months preparing for the Swindon race. Having completed it in 2 hours 18 minutes, she decided to keep training to see how far she could go. "I thought I might as well try that little bit extra and do the full marathon. I wasn't really ever a runne r. Before this, the most I had done was the Race for Life; when I first ran 5 miles I thought I was A going to die." Now training four times a week, she is determined to complete the 26 mile course and raise at least £1,600 for Shelter. She began an 18 clerk to the governors at Catherine week training programme at the Wayte, Peatmoor and Orchid Vale start of December which will build primary schools. Anna has supported Shelter for up gradually to 20 mile runs before some time and wanted to do more to the big day in April. Her fundraising efforts are also raise funds. The charity campaigns underway and Anna hopes she to i mprove the lives of homeless and will find support from school gov- badly housed people. "Donating to ernors across the town. She works Shelter is my way of giving somefor Swindon Council's Governor thing and knowing that it's going Support section, providing advice to do something to help." to 70 school governing bodies across www.justgiving.com\annarichardthe borough, as well as acting as son

Fitness for kids top of the agenda in 08 In a big push to improve the health of overweight children Swindon Primary Care Trust and Sainsburys are launching the MEND programme ( Mind, Exercise Nutrition, Do it) in Swindon during January. The three free courses are part of a national initiative aimed at 7 to 13 year olds to get children and their families, fitter, healthier and happier. The course will include games and swimming and children will also have the opportunity to learn about the importance of healthy eating. There will be interactive discussions about how to improve self confidence and information on portion sizes and reading food labels. A parent or carer will need to attend to support the children and ensure a healthier lifestyle is adopted by the whole family. How to take part: • Ten week courses for children and parents / carers, funded by the PCT, take place from 5pm to 7pm (excluding school holidays) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 January at Link Centre. A similar course will run at the same times at Dorcan Sport Centre. • A third 10 week scheme backed by Sainsbury's will run at Greendown School on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4pm to 6pm. Children qualify on the basis on their age, weight and health. For details call Ben Humphrey on: 07815 776593 or mail: bhumphrey@ swindon.gov.uk www.mendprogramme.org

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MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS *Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work MoTs arr ed re-test fee) For reliable local ser wit ' r 25 years exper ence, (NoVAT topay) ^t CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 55b350

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Family tracks moto events Fourteen-year old motocross rider, Lorenzo Newman, has notched up six years of experience in the sport, which has become a family affair. After going to his first motocross member of the British Schoolboy meeting at Foxhill in Wanborough, Motocross Association and has Lorenzo couldn't wait to get his own travelledalloverthesouthofEngbike so he could join in the action. land to race. The Greendown student is a Motocross involves racing across rough terrain on specially adapted lightweight motorbikes. Children as young as six can take part on mini motorbikes. Racing calls for physical stamina and skill as riders deal with jumps, twists and turns and natural obstacles of the course.

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Looking good on two wheels, Lorenzo and Georgia Neuman

"Lorenzo really likes extreme sports and loves the racing and meeting friends," said his mum Sharon. "It can be dangerous though. You have to have guts and determination." Rather than watching from the side lines Sharon and her husband have both become involved in the sport. "There's a fantastic atmosphere and everyone can take part. It's a good family sport; I do marshalling and my husband does the starts." Lorenzo's younger sister Georgia, 6, goes along to cheer him on, no matter what the weather. "I think he's cool," she said. Georgia has no plans to follow him onto the track though. Having just mastered riding her push bike, she is happy to stick to pedal power and prefers the nice clean pavements near home to the muddy Motocross tracks. When he's not racing Lorenzo likes a quiet day fishing with his grandfather. For details about junior motocross call Sharon on 334564.

Ahoy shipmates Ex-cadets from TS Resolution are invited to a reunion to celebrate 70 years of Sea Cadets in Swindon at the Sea Cadets Unit. Upham Road on 8 March, 7.30pm to 10.30pm. Tickets are £10 per person to include a buffet. Call Pauline van der Sanden on 07887 606902 for details

swindonlink.com • January 2008

Pupils take in sights, schools and social life of Seville The second leg of a Spanish school exchange with the Instituto Murillo in Seville introduced youngsters from Greendown Community School in Grange Park to a very different way of life.

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Pupils from Greendown and Commonweal Schools on the joint visit to Seville

Eight pupils spent ten days with host families, attending school, exploring the region and taking in the sights. The youngsters were fully immersed in Spanish life as soon as their host families greeted them at the airport. "There was so much hugging and kissing by complete strangers; we're not used to how friendly everyone was," said Aimee Lang. Eating lunch at 3pm and dinner at 10pm took a while to adjust to. "They were really large meals," said Lauren Baldwin. "It was strange eating so late when we would be getting ready to go to bed." She also found the Spanish social life a little daunting. "On Fridays, it seems like all teenagers in Seville

were in the city centre. We were a bit amazed to see everybody out and the freedom the Spanish young people had to stay out really late." The relaxed attitude continued in school and Adam Dyer was surprisedto see that pupils could arrive late for lessons provided that they apologised to the teacher. "Then a teacher told us that if Spanish pupils don't do well, they have to repeat the year. They seemed to be more committed to getting a good education and didn't like the idea of being held back." Greendown and the Instituto Murillo have a formal agreement to develop cultural and curricular links so it is hoped that more exchanges will follow.

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Football on the forest a possibility The recent upheavals at Swindon Town Football Club, which has taken them to the brink of extinction, apparently stems in part to the problems resulting from their involvement with St Modwen Properties who wanted to build a stadium on Shaw Forest Park in West Swindon. Loud community protest to Swindon Council in early 2004 scuppered that idea but left the club with financial and legal obligations that have had to be unravelled. Since 2006 the North Wilts Youth & Minor Football League have been negotiating with the council for exclusive use of the events field at the forest. But the costs of leasing and maintaining the site imposed by the council, on top of having to fund a club house and changing rooms, had made the proposal prohibitive and the league said they would have to withdraw from further involvement. However the council has asked them to continue discussions and submit a business plan to see if there could be any financial support forthcoming.

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

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Old boy comes up with sponsorship to promote young cooks Mark Wylie, a graduate from Greendown, who won the Taste of Swindon cooking competition in 2000, has come up trumps with backing for a competition to promote an interest in food and cooking at his old school. Mark pursued his interest in food after leaving school and is now a director of Mayes Famous for Food which has taken on sponsorship of Greendown's Junior Gourmet competition for West Swindon rt^°^ primary schools. The competition was continued a\ by Greendown at a community level after Taste of Swindon and its successor Swindon Junior Young Cooks ended for lack of sponsorship. This year, the second junior gourmet competition, a short list of four Year 5 children were selected . from eighteen entries to take part f in a cook off at Greendown, using '" Markand his a inning plate, pictured with ingredients suppled by Mayos. former Swindon MP Julia Drown, from The children had support from the front page of the July 2000 Link Greendown Year 10 pupils to Afamily favourite ofsalmonwith complete their preparations and cooking in the allotted time before shrimp and potato pieces made by Mark and Greendown staff had Bianca Silvea was selected to win the difficult task of choosing the prizes to the value of £100 for Shaw tastiest dish. Ridge Primary school. ^7

A ?Dinning line up, front from left, Bianca Silaea, Bryony Taylor, Frankie Cuming, Charlotte Tilling. Back, helper Selvi Izzitmen, Debbie Sheehan, food tech teacher, Shirade Woodman, deputy head Jonathan Young, Lauren Hughes, Mark Wylie, Leanne Rainer

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A calendar of pleasant scenes across Wiltshire belies the fact that too many older people are the victims of doorstep crime in the county. Produced by Wiltshire Crime Partnership, pictures 2008 PARTNERSHIP CALENDAR by Steve Day are combined with monthly crime prevention messages to remind older people not to be taken in by strangers on their doorstep. It also provides useful telephone numbers, information about partner agencies and steps to take, such as keeping doors locked, having a spy hole fitted, and not letting great scenes but most importantly anybody who is not recognised it's a daily reminder that says Stay into the house. Out Stranger." DetectivelnspectorJerryDawson The calendar is available free said, "we are always looking for of charge through www.wiltshire. new ways to promote the Stay Out police.uk or by contacting Lynsey Thorpe at Police HQ, Devizes, SN10 Stranger message. "This calendar not only has some 2DN. Tel: 0845 4087000.

swindonlink.com • January 2008

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Christmas choir stays calm through emergency p

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Youngsters from Greendown School entertained seniors at two carol concerts in St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park on 12 December - though there was an unexpected ending to the afternoon performance. Elizabeth Kingfi sher from Ab- didn'tstopeventhoughtherewasa Sixty pupils sang or played instruments in the concert which told bey Meads, who accompanied her hit of a commotion at thebackof the the Christmas story with modern friend to the Great Western Hospital church. They were very mature. She added that her friend was themes, but in a very traditional in the ambulance said,"thechildren setting, the fi rst time the school sang and played beautifully and discharged later in the evening. had used the church for such an Young performers, Mark Roberts, Tori Carless with members of the appreciative occasion. audience Elizabeth Kingfisher and Maurice Rowlandson In the second half a gentleman who had recently undergone major surgery was taken poorly and paramedics were called to attend. Not put off by the activity the children played on whilst the medics stabilised the patient.

Paradise Pets Ltd Your local pet store supplying top quality pets. Birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, s=;,ttsntr c ^ — tarype s°ore ttst gerbils, reptiles and lots more. Food and accessories for all your pets ^^Sttussoon Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

Sing out in North Swindon January will see the launch of the new Flux Swindon Youth Choir for young people aged 11 and over. All are welcome to join the Drama Babes encouraging youngsters to express themselves choir which will meet on through song and dance Mondays, 7pm to 9pm, using finger puppets, stoat Isambard Community _- rytelling and music. School. For details and to book Flux is also starting a place, call Jo Beal on drama sessions for chil07824 550484, or mail: jo@ dren aged 2 to 4 years with artsmad.co.uk professional drama teacher www.fluxswindon.org.uk Fiona Da Silva-Adams of

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Help cancer care charity's 60th year Marie Curie Cancer Care is looking for people who can help make this year their biggest fundraising effort ever. They need supporters to take a box of daffodil pins into their workplace,

community group, or other setting, and 'sell' them during February and March. Each box contains around 50 daffodil pins each of which are'sold' for a suggested donation of £1. And every donation made for a daffodil

means more expert free home nursing care. To help call Clair Cusack or Helen Game on 0117 9247275 or mail: www.mariecurie.org.uk clair.cusack@mariecurie.org.uk

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

Flog It steams into Swindon The popular BBC2 antiques programme, Flog It, presented by Paul Martin, will be arriving at Steam, Museum of the Great Western Railway, for a valuation day on Sunday 13 January.

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Appointments not always neccssai Ring Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633

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Join Paul Martin and other value's at Steam on 13 January

PETS AT HOME

A Happy, Peaceful & Healthy New Year from all at

Readers are invited to take along for £1,300; a ceramic bowl, bought the antiques and collectables they for £4 at a car boot sale, achieving mightbe interested in selling. Once £1,500; and a lady in Aberdeen sold valued, the owner and team of ex- a Shelley tea set for a huge £3,400. If you've ever wondered how perts decide whether it should go forward for auction. If the item is much those boot sale bargains or chosen it is sold a few weeks later clutter in the loft might be worth, — often with the owner making a now is a time for an early Spring tidy sum. Everyone who attends clean clearout. The Flog It team, including prewill receive a valuation — even if their antiques are not chosen to go senter Paul Martin, will be at Steam from 9.30am until 4pm. The auction forward for auction. Flog It! regularly gets an audience takes place on Friday 8 February in of 2 million viewers each weekday. Cirencester and will be broadcast Previous programmes have seen as part of the seventh series later a small cream jug sold at auction in the year.

Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer

Janet's Puppy Skool Don't worry about the weather come & have some fun teaching your dog good manners at one of our fun classes

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Care - always Compassion - for you and your pet Communication - we listen

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

Fish given the freedom of the River Ray For the first time in years, fish in Swindon's River Ray are able to navigate the full length of the river thanks to a fish pass installed at the weir pool near the Great Western Way at Rivermead. The work is the final stage of the roam the river. We often saw them canal has been opened up to light, wildflowers. The project has been a partnerRiver Ray Restoration Project run congregating in the aerated water wildlife and people, with meanders by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, which of the pool. By opening the river put back in the river channel along ship between the Wiltshire Wildlife has seen the river returned to a up, we are also providing wider with pools, riffles and backwaters. Trust and its funders the Environmore natural state, encouraging hunting grounds for birds such as There is now a river beach and the ment Agency, Sitatrust, Biffaward wildlife to return and reconnect- herons and kingfishers that feed on floodplainhasbeenreplanted with and Swindon Council. ing people with the nature on their the fish. And as the invertebrates at The quiet backzcat • r ju-t i..'.i from the rush o f the Great Western Wray thebottom of the food chain spread doorsteps. j Neil Pullen, the Trust's Swindon out, we should see more and more Wildlife Project Officer, said an wildlife returning." * ' " .1 eighteen inch difference in levels Anybody who walks or cycles the '' . had prevented fish from swimming footpath between Westlea and BarnIp^1 upstream. "We've opened up the field will see the dramatic changes ` { whole habitat above the weir so that in the landscape around River Ray. the Ray s nine species of fish can What used to he no more than a > .rF

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Swindon's new team of ambassadors are more likely to be found at the bottom of the garden than at diplomatic receptions at an embassy. Over thirty compost ambassadors have been trained by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to spread the word about the art of converting household waste into black gold for the garden. The scheme was officially launched at a training day held at Lower Shaw Farm in December. "The ambassadors all share the same passion for composting and it's this enthusiasm that can rea ll y help encourage others to follow suit," said WWT Waste Prevention Officer, Kate Robinson. Composting is a simple way of reducing your carbon foot print as half of the contents of the average household waste bin can be used to make compost rather than go to landfill and contribute harmful greenhouse gases like methane to the atmosphere." Have an ambassador pop round to help get you started by going to: www.wiltshirewildlife.org

Pupils create a nova garden See the carpet or floor covering of your choice, where it will be laid, next to your other furnishings. Appointments to suit you: day, evening or weekend.

Youngsters from Nova Hreod School put in a couple of days hard graft outside the classroom in December to give the garden at Bluebells Residential Home in Moredon a makeover.

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Before the practical work the members of the school's Prince's Trust XL group planned the project and applied for a lottery grant to buy materials and plants. New gardener Mark Jones said, "it's the hardest I've worked in a long time. I think the old people will be pleased. We hope to come back when all the bulbs come up."

swindonlink.com • January 2008

Starting in January at Peatmoor After-school activities for 4 toll year olds at Peatmoor Primary School now booking: ^Musical Theatre: Friday, 3.30pm; ^` , • :; Jazz Dance: Friday, 4.30pm. ^ For details call Charlotte Johnson on 07828 35775.

Members of the Peatmoor Primary School Eco-club turned ou early December to tidy up the playground by planting up boxes and creating a sensory garden. They plan to plant trees around the site in February.

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swindonlink.com • January 2008

West air cadets are recruiting again

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1244 (West Swindon) Detached Flight are holding a recruitment evening on Friday 4 January, 7.30pm, in the Sunshine Room, Westlea Primary School and welcome boys and girls of 13 and over to meet cadets and staff and learn about ATC activities through videos, displays and one-to-one discussions. Cadets have also Parents, relatives and friends are all welcome and light refresh- represented the squadments will be available. Cadets ron or wing in hockwill start the evening with a short ey, netball, football, drill display. swimming, athletics Over the past year cadets have and cross country. taken part in a range of activities: Long distance trips glider training at Hullavington have involved map near Chippenham; flyi jig the RAF's reading on Dartmoor basic trainer at RAF Boscombe and a week in the Down; helping to organise the air Lake District for adshow at Kemble in June as well as venture training like . attending a summer camp at RAF kayaking, canoeing, Brize Norton. mountain walking Cadets have the cha r ;lute at Hullavington and climbing. In January the detachment will Creative skills are also catered t11I11 1 LilJ lI ib i1 for and last year the detachment parade on Monday and Friday eveachieved third place against 25 nings at Westlea School. Because of other squadrons in a wing training the ATC popularity after previous day. Cadets produced models, and notices in The Link, Helene is mak^^^ photographic displays, and special ing an appeal for more adults to mention has to be given to Cdt volunteer their skills to work with pl'^l _ Porter for his detachment website: the cadets. She said, "we'd like to 1 1j, ^• www.1244df.org.uk meet more adults with an interest Detachment commander Helene in aviation adventure training who Woodhams says the ATC caters for could assist on a Friday evening all interests. "Whether you plan to to help achieve higher standards. join the Royal Air Force or want to Come along to the open evening • pursue an interest, meet new friends to find out more about us." •• If you are unable to attend, mail or need to gain con fi dence in doing something new, come along and Helene Woodham for information: ; 1 1 1 helenewoodham@fsmail.net find out more."

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Young people aged 13 to 19 are invited to help shape the future of youth activities in North Swindon. Youth worker Carole Anne Rapson wants to hear from young people interested in joining discussions. "If you're fed up that there's not much happening, here's your chance to help develop activities or projects." The panel gets together at Starbucks at the North Swindon Centre on Monday, 6pm to 8pm. To join call Carole Anne on 07766 368388 or mail: carapsonCNswindon.gov.uk

Assisting offenders find new direction Swindon's Youth Offending Team (YOT) is looking for people to help young offenders face up to the consequences of their behaviour. Anyone under 17 who has to be "The opportunitythatYOToffers interviewed by the police must be is really fantastic," said volunteer accompanied by an 'appropriate co-ordinator, Alison Rosier. "It's adult.' When relatives are unable a great way to have hands on exto attend, volunteers sit in on in- perience and to make a difference terviews and look after the welfare to people's lives. We encourage of a young person and make sure young people to learn skills that that they understand what is hap- will transfer to the work place such pening. as being punctual." A newly launched mentoring Initially a volunteer for two scheme supports young people not years, Alison has found that many employed or in education or train- young people look forward to their ing (NEETs). Meeting with a young community work as they have little person on a weekl y basis, mentors else to do. work with them on their personNow employed by YOT, she is alised learning programme. so enthusiastic about the positive Community volunteers also su- impact volunteers have on young pervise and support young people people's lives that she plans to sentenced to make reparation by lit- continue with the work alongside ter picking or cleaning up graffiti. her paid job. Volunteersaregivenfulltraining For information call 823153 or and need not have any previous mail Alison: arosiertRswindon. experience of youth work. gov.uk

swindonlink.com • January 2008

Giving girls great things to do

EDDIE WILLIAMS

Pat Carter, says Guiding has kept up with the times and provides a great range of activities for girls and adult leaders. Guiding is a unique experience — ask any adult woman who camped as a Guide — and she'll have vivid memories — usually related to the food and toilet facilities.

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The Scout movement celebrated its centenary this year; the Guide Association will celebrate 100 years in 2010 — a big year for all involved in Guiding. I became an adult volunteer three years ago after hearing via my daughter's Brownie pack, that a local Guide unit was desperate for help. I decided to step forward because I remembered the fun I'd had as a Guide. One of the first activities I helped with was outdoor cooking on a wood fire. The venue was on the top of a hill near the Ridgeway, in pouring rain and gale force winds.., an unforgettable experience. Ihave been a uniformed assistant leader with 1st Peatmoor Guides for 18 months. The girls have a big say in deciding group activities. As well as the traditional things associated with Guiding, such as camp skills and outdoor activities, we've been bowling, had chocolate nights and

talent evenings. We've also been on two camps — enormous fun, but hard work — both for the girls and leaders. Guiding is all about learning new skills, being independent and having fun. Some of the skills learned will set girls up for life. Every week is different and I, as a leader, have made lots of new friends and learnt a variety of skills. Girls may join Guides between the ages of 10 and 14; it's not necessary to have been a Brownie. There are also Guide units at Westlea and Shaw; unfortunately they all have waiting lists. With more adult involved Guides can cater for many more members. If you'd like to know more about helping as a parent or in uniform, or you have a daughter who would like to join, call Tracey Warren, our District Commissioner on 874408 or mail: manningtondc@wncounty. org.uk

Something every day in the West Swindon Youth Service is now running activities throughout the week in different venues across West Swindon aimed at 10 to 19 year olds Monday Homework group: Toothill Farm House, 3.30pm to 5.30pm, ages 13+ Toothill Girls Group: Toothill Farm House. 5.30pm to 8.30pm, ages 13+ Tuesday Homework group: Toothill Farm House, 3.30pm to 5.30pm, ages 13+ G-Space: Big A building, Greendown School, 6pm to 9pm, ages 13+ Adventure Service Challenge: Sparcells Youth Centre, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, ages 10 - 13 Wednesday Homework group: Toothill Farm House, 3.30pm to 5.30pm, ages 13+ Sparcells Youth Club: Sparcells Youth Centre, 6pm to 9pm Thursday Greendown Development Group: Greendown School, conference room, 12.30pm to 1.30pm (lunch time) Toothill Boys Sports Group: Toothill Farm House, 6pm to 9pm, ages 13+ Friday Information Session @ Sublero: Link Centre rink, 6pm to 9pm For details, and to find out about becoming a sessional youth worker, call Huw Solley on 07766 368398 or mail: hsolly@swindon.gov.uk

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01793 704309

For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace

O Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits O Garden lights & sockets, pond pumps O Wiring for log cabins, garages, sheds O Electrical inspection & testing O Portable appliance testing O Air conditioning supplied & installed O Part P registered

Quality Plumbing & Heating

MOBILE: 07769

HOME MAINTENANCE

From an annoying drip to a full bathroom re-fit

No call out charge Free quotations Professional & friendly service

07747 752190 01793 529192

arcelectrics@aol.com Installations and modifications, interior or exterior Full compliance to all regulations P.A.T. undertaken All work fully guaranteed ►NAPIT

!artP

Free quotations

24hr call out Fast, top quality service L

TEL: 01793 876029

KITCHEN & BATHROOM

SERVICES

Steve George

Call Glen on ° 01793 487450 ~ ^^' 07774 841879

PUMBINC- & HEATING SERVICES

01793 872054 0770 480 1959

883717

sF^JJ

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

WO PLUMBING

Arc Electrical Services Ltd

3 EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS 3 SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS 3 GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS 3 SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED 3 FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT 3 COMPLETE RE-WIRING

07974 711962

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

PLUMBIN G

SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAF SERVICES

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

Painting and decorating Carpentry services Private garden & commercial grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Well tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

• Central heating installation • Bo il er servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathrooms & tiling 128966 966

Call James Nicholls on

01793 812303 NAPIT Amalia Electrical Services Ltd

HEATING & PLUMBING

3&III (airpewtrt^y Sc irvk.4 Fitted bedrooms and kitchen s" -D Replacemen t w doors & staircases O Laminate floors O Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

NEED AN LECTRICIANP d

ENTRY

CA RPENT RY

H ome & Garden Improvemen ts

ELE

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 ALL

CHENS FITTE D (Howdens, Jewsons etc.) KITCHENS Free survey • Building work • Plastering

Electrics & plumbing • Tiling & worktops Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED

electrics, plumbing, furniture work, plastering,tiling,

Buildin

30 years experienced tradesman

ROOFING

TILING

HOUSEMARTIN

GILES BROS

• FELT ROOFING S ASPHALT ROOFING •SHEET ROOFING SLATING • TILING • SINGLE PLY • FASCIA • GUTTERING

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

CALL NEIL ON

Call Mike

01793 700436 07725 028776

on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520 526

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

' c APPROVED

TILING

ReSure CERAMIC TILING Walls & floors Bathrooms. kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting Fitted by tradesman QUALITY FINISH Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERV ICES

AIRPORT TRAVEL

CHRIS PAYNE

AIRPORTS

AERIALS

Chartered Certified Accountants

Small Business Specialists

Vii

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points

Tel: 01793 610008 email: enquiries@dykebrading.co.uk

www.dykebrading.co.uk EJ

CLEANING

A CL EA N

crA FT Domestic Cleaning Services • Regular weekly cleans • Fortnightly cleans • One-off Spring cleans Call Christine on (01793) 701413 Mob: 07951 184424

IRONING

THE I RO N LADY • Free collection and delivery • Returned within 24 hrs • Only £15 per basket • 18 years experience Tel: 0777 395 0734

Tel: 0119 3 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

SKY

Tel: 4311 1

t A LT lC tIROPrAcT1 c t-f

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK

• Business, Home, Garden, Garage, Site Clearance

• NECK PAIN • BACK PAIN

• Load Assist & 24 Hour

Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic

wi ll benefit you.

• HEADACHES

Service

Please call

• SPORTS INJURY • A Professional Waste

• CARACCIDENT

& Recycling Management

Se rvice T Rrecycling

(SWINDON)

01793 602454

Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike.

54 Basepoint Centre,Westlea, Swindon

MINI BUS HIRE

' JOHN'S

;

GJ DLtNC•^4N-f-tAWES

Cheaper Than a Skip & Twice the Capacity!

Clare Duncan-Hawes the Member of the British Chiropractic Assoc h irop a ct

College of

C hirop ra ct ors.

Registered

with GCC

www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

MORTGAGE ADVISER

hilip Ch

Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive Swindon SN5 7EX

arles

From Swindon to... Gatwick - Heathrow Bristol - Birmingham Stansted For family holidays, business trips and all occasions, we cater for 1 to 8 passengers Call for a competitive quote now!

Tel: 01793 703899

WHITE VAN MAN

Mortgage Specialists

Time to review

your mortgage? Call us today on 01793 602460 Philip Charles Mortgage Specialists is a trading style of Philip Charles Ltd.

OVEN CLEANING

Single items

ENCLEA N

moved

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

an where in Swindon for £20

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

Last minute bookings

Tel - 07876 338025

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc. Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

email: travel@airportsconnect.com www.airportsconnect.com

Clearance, Recycling 8 or Disposal of Busin ess & Domestic Waste

Robbins Removals

www.robbinsremovals.com info@robbinsremovals.com

Same day, local service wherever possible

Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for business people and holiday makers Competitive prices

ecycling

REM OVALS

Professional, friendly and reliable We guarantee to beat any written quote

Connect eta

CHIROPRACTO R

CLEARANCE

RE MO VA LS Single items to full house removals Hourly rates Fully Insured Disposal of unwanted items

APPLI ANCE REPAIRS

Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed House clearance Long/short distance removals Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

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

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

G000LEBOX TV C VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates No call out charge

TV & video tuning All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

11 REMIER lectriCS Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service

CARPET CLEANING

cf Whiteway The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

• Carpets, rugs, cu rt ains, suites etc

• Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured NC^^

• Quickly usable You'll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

COMPUTER SUPPOR

GARAGE DOORS

Accidentally formatted your hard drive or lost data?

Corn Master's rPC Repairs

Call Andy Anderson Computer Data Recovery Tel: 01793 871718 Mobile: 07703 033790

Mds

VHS TO DVD

01793 513796

email: swindondoorservice@btinterr.et.co.uk f

• Save those ir eplaceable memories O

•

Wedding videos

• Irreplaceable TV programmes • Large family collections • Children's first steps. Birthday parties

your oven... so you don't have to.

We'll clean

Do you wish that your oven still looke -s good as new? Do you ' mte the thought of scrubbing for hours and =mnt heinn hang v with the results? Then call Cotswold Oven Valeting today to have your oven,

Al EBBING & EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY

www.artkore2oomshare.com www.wiltshirelandscanes.zoomshare.com

W IND OW CLEANING windows, can 1 clean yours?" Domestic & Commercial Window Cleaning Conservatories • Soffits/Fascias • Cladding & Guttering

• 8mm reel film a speciality • Obsolete formats, i.e. Betamax, Video2000; camcorder tapes SAVE THOSE MEMORIES Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co .uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

"I love cleaning

BUTTON AND DRIVE IN

10% discount with this advert

Motorcycle Repairs Servicing & Tuning 30 years experience Factory trained Honda • Suzuki Kawasaki • Yamaha

Cheney Manor Estate, Swindon

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

or for information on installation and repairs

Tel: 01793 422534 or

GARY VARDY

Call (01793) 481008 Mob: 07787 183719 Unit 91, Pembroke Centre,

Quality Service Guarantee

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon

email:jlanderson@ntlworld.com

MOTORC YCLE REPAIR

Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided

The Automatic Choice JUST PULL UP, PRESS A

Why go anywhere else? When we'll come to you.....

Mobile: 0792 005 6077

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

Premier Klean has invested in the best cleaning systems possible: our powerful machines give an excellent clean whilst using no harmful chemicals. We offer a comprehensive service. Call now fora free no obligation quotation. 0800 2800 544

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Also PC repairs/upgrades Systems built to requirements Private or business • Free estimates

Homes That Sparkle From t1aidg, People Who Shine

PROFESSIONAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING, CAR VALETING, DRIVEWAY & PATIO CLEANING

Email: cliff.whiteway@ btinternet.com

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

erry

Premier lean `Set the course in cleaning'

Tel: 01793 469300

Let us try and get it back for you - no results, no cost.

CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING

0800 0304595 www.aandlcleaningservices.co.uk

hob, extractor or microwave , professionally cleaned. We use fixed pricing so there are no surprises. All of our operatives are fully trained members of the 'Association of Approved Oven Cleaners'. We only use cleaning solutions that are environmentally friendly, non toxic and fume free.

54 swindonlink.com • January 2008

Afghan action offers conflict alternative o^E

van gel -

C) ?_Worsley Road `^1

[11

budding with people

Sunday services are at Oam & 6.30pm

For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org "the gift of God is Eternal Life" (Romans 6

s' 2

years of conflict and devastation, Afghanistan is being rebuilt and whilst military action takes up most of the headlines, redevelopment projects are providing training and jobs to regenerate the economy. will be like making an investment And Swindon people can become literacy and nuwneracy." Martin Frith is impressed by the in the country." involved after carpet importer GH GH Frith is on Frankland Road Frith at Blagrove took delivery in workmanship. "We'recommitted to November of the first carpets made helping people in Afghanistan. The Blagrove, off Great Western Way. by workers at a factory and training carpets are good quality and will Tel: 0845 4900 600. www.afghanaction.com school set up by Afghan Action in be very hard wearing. Buying one the capital Kabul. Showing off the Afgan Action wares, from left, charity supporters Gerry Shattuck, The handmade carpets are made David Sagar, Julie Nankervis of Friths, Martin Frith, Chris Bra/es from oca materia s woven in tra itional and modern patterns. Afghan Action chief executive Chris Beale said, "we have 80 people from several tribal groups being trained in weaving, and also T

WEST SWINDON &THE LYD12RDS Cl-fUKCH PAKTNEKSHIP ^;-

All

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: roam St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: loam Saints', Lydiard Millicent-the church in the village: io.3oam Holy Trinity, Shaw: 1o.3oam

— ^–

Toothill Church: 1o.45am For details of

the

and our other services

call the Partnership Office on 874221 Email: partnershipofficegbtopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk

;rnr

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John's Haydon Wick Sunday Services

Tieing the knot? It's good to talk first Wherever you're getting hitched, North Swindon couples will be welcomed at a marriage preparation weekend on 9 and 10 February at St Francis School, Taw Hill. Rev Mike Haslam, vicar of North Swindon, says, "you don't have tobe religious or marrying in church; everyone is welcome because we believe talking about relationships is a vital part of creating a life together." The weekend will cover the meaning of love, communication, conflict, lifestyle and the marriage vows. For details call Rev Mike on 07817 703929 or mail: mike.haslamCrnschurch.org.uk

IS THERE MORE TO LIFE THAN THIS? Explore the meaning of life A practical introduction to the Christian faith A 10 week course starting 22nd January 2008 For details call 01793 870916 or 01793 881571

gam Traditional communion service 11am Eventful, contemporary worship with children's groups meeting

Alp/

Swindon Community Church

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

newfrontiers.

swindonfamilychurch The Alpha Course – Explore Christianity Babies & Toddlers – Wednesday Mornings Kid's Church & Youth Work

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC 'I

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School , THAMEsoowN DRIVE / ^

A4 Meatls •

^ Commun1l Primary

A/p/ia

Sundays 10,30am Family friendly worship and Bible teaching The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea

•

raoaa

School

101

George Wimpey

imp:Ie. Four great deals in January. One that's right for you. ).Ui All offers available at the four developments listed below.

r Ps

I 1ii fli

j:. . rev Park

2,4 & 5 bedroom homes The Boulevard, Taw Hill SN25 1WB from

2,3,4 & 5 bedroom homes Junction 9 Thamesdown Drive SN25 2BF fromY i o J,'od'

1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments and 3 & 5 bedroom homes Off Dorcan Way SN3 5BL rcukc

1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom homes Okus Road, Old Town SN1 4JH

0845 026 4187

0845 0264169

0845 026 41 57

0845 026 4163

near:

Prices correct at time of going to press. Imagery depicts typical George Wimpey house types. *Offer based on paying a subsidy for the first 24 months equal to 50% of the monthly mortgage interest only payments of the loan amount offered to the purchaser up to a maximum annual interest rate of 6%. **Offer based on paying 5% of the price, stamp duty, ÂŁ500 legal and ÂŁ500 mortgage fees. `**Offer based on the existing home being valued by our agent and using the easymover scheme, estate agents fees, stamp duty, legal fees, HIP and removal costs up to a total amount paid being equal to 6% of the price. "Offer based on a sum equal to the guaranteed annual rental figure of 5% of the price. On selected properties only, Terms and Conditions apply.The offers can be withdrawn at any ti me and only one promotion offered on each purchase. George Wimpey is not a mortgage provider and therefore this advert does not constitute mortgage advice. All offers are subject to using the recommended authorised mortgage broker who will provide independent advice, details available on request. YOUR HOME MAY BE AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

BROOME MANOR

k Whoie onthS

Golf & Gym Complex

ivities for less the

01793 433290

LIMO a day

COUNTY GROUND

01793 511033

croft

sports centre

01793 526622

oorcan

RECREATION COMPLEX

01793 533763

01793 706666

HEALTH

HYDRO

01793 465630

LINK

^y D \W CENTRE

01793 445566

Gym* • Swimming •

01793 465401

Fitness Classes * • Ice Skating • Climbing* Athletics Track Sauna, Steam Room & Turkish Baths* •

•

*Terms & Conditions apply - please ask at Reception or visit www.swindon.gov.uk/leisure-passports

01793 762602

€S3 SwinDon J L BOROUGH COUIICIL