January 2007 Swindon Link

No. 296 January 2007 • Circulation 26,000

YOUR CHILD DESERVES THE BEST Excellent standards of Education and Daycare for 0 - 7 years

MEADOWPARK Nursery & Pre-Prep School Tel: Swindon 752600

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

Swindon Council sees the sense of keeping Lower Shaw Farm

What has happened to Kristina?

A child who lives in the shadow of Chernobyl captured hearts in Swindon last April. Virginia McGiffin from Priory Vale has been to Kristina Eshenkova’s home in Belarus to meet her and other children who will be visiting the town in February.

See page 34

There’s always a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his staff at Purton’s hidden treasure

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Exclusive on page 25

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Lydiard Millicent

The builders have been kept at bay for the time being until farm trustees and council officers work out its future. But we’re watching out for any tricky business says Becky Doyley. See pages 3 & 4

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Choose Credit Unions for Christmas saving Swindon’s Credit Unions have seen an increase in interest in their saving schemes following the Farepak fiasco.

If any good can come out of the terrible losses suffered by Farepak customers, it might be that people will think hard about how they save for Christmas 2007.

This is the ideal time of year to join a credit union to start building up a fund for Christmas shopping. By saving regularly for three months, it is possible to take a small affordable loan. All money deposited is protected because credit unions are regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Most importantly the rate of interest is very low: 1 per cent per month on the declining loan balance (12.68pc APR).

Before Christmas, the Clivey Credit Union gave loans to several families who lost money with Farepak. They were able to allow them a special dispensation to borrow without saving for the usual 12 weeks, because they had already shown that they were regular savers.

To become a member just take two types of ID, such as a utilities bill or passport to the Clivey Credit Union on Clive Parade. Call 321833 for details and see the web site. www.swindoncreditunions.co.uk

Don’t let the winter blues get you Everyone feels a bit of a slump after the festive season, but if energy levels don’t pick up in a week or so, you could be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD, because of inadequate natural light.

We at The Link have used light boxes for over 15 years and can say that our work performance during the winter months is better for it.

The SAD Lightbox Company is offering readers a 10 per cent discount on any of their products. A light box may not suit everyone which is why they offer a 28 day home trial.

See the full story and discount details at www.swindonlink.com

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A Happy New Year - or is it?

Christmas will have been a positive experience for many, but for some it was stressful and miserable, drawing out worries and difficult feelings which may prevail for weeks or months to come.

The new year can signify ring- haps it would help to write down ing in the changes. Many start off the things that are good in your life with good intentions but, after a and the things that are not so good. struggle resolutions dissolve. This will give you a starting point Making changes to our lives, our to look to the future.” relationships and within ourselves Colleague Annette Moore adds, can be really difficult without help “we can offer you the space to and support. explore your worrying thoughts Personal counsellors under- and feelings and we can help you stand how frightening it can be to find ways of making and sustainmake changes says Tina Deas of ing the changes that you want to counselling and support service A make in your life and assist you in Time To Talk. “We can feel power- regaining some control.” less and out of control. This in turn If you think that you need supadds to our levels of stress and port and would like to talk to someanxiety and we can start to feel one, call A Time To Talk which is overwhelmed, perhaps giving us based at the Health Hydro, Milton a sense of hopelessness about the Rd, Swindon. Tel: 07722 023950 or future. mail: attt@btinternet.com “If you are feeling confused perwww.attt.co.uk

Malnutrition can be a fork in the road to recovery for older people Age Concern launches Hungry to be Heard campaign Malnutrition amongst older people in hospitals across Britain has been in the news recently and Age Concern is tackling the widespread problem by joining forces with consultant geriatrician, Dr Jackie Morris, in producing valuable advice and information for those affected. them on this.

Dr Morris, right, “The Intermediate says, “if you eat well in Care Centre, adjacent to hospital you are more the GWH, but run by likely to recover from Swindon Primary Care illness quickly and get Trust, has equally good home sooner. Unfortuarrangements in place nately, a staggering six and is in the business of out of ten older pahelping to support peotients are put at unnecple’s rehabilitation and essary risk of malnureturn home.” trition during their “We have had surstay.”

Age Concern nationally knows prisingly few comments about the extent of the problem only too food at the hospital, but that isn’t well having been inundated with to say things are all fantastically calls since the official launch of its good. Recently I had one excellent ‘Hungry to be Heard’ campaign report but two not so good. We before Christmas. Older people are work well with the GWH but what reporting that the food served to Age Concern Swindon is trying to them is inappropriate, their meals do locally is raise the issues are left out of reach, and often no amongst older people and also assistance or encouragement is with those who care for them.”

Age Concern has produced a free given to help them eat and drink.

Dr Morris adds, “the more that leaflet Don’t go hungry in hospital. older people - and those who care This provides important tips for for them - know about malnutri- older people in hospital that can tion, the more they can do to pro- reduce their risk of becoming malnourished and also useful infortect themselves, or others.”

Commenting on the local situa- mation for carers on whether an tion Jo Osorio, director of Age Con- older person is malnourished becern Swindon, says the Great West- fore going into hospital. Four out ern Hospital is making major of ten older people arrive at hospistrides in ensuring there is excel- tal already malnourished and the lent nutrition support in place for leaflet describes the early warning patients and are currently under- signs of malnutrition.

For a free copy drop in or write taking a self-assessment to see how well they are doing. “The hospital to Age Concern Swindon, One is focussing on where improve- Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE, or ments can be achieved and Age telephone 692166. www.ageconcern.org.uk Concern Swindon is working with

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 11

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Years with 7 at the end are lucky for us Twenty years ago this month The Link closed down when the last edition of the newsletter which had first appeared in December 1978 was published.

This year has another milestone As a volunteer run eight page April 1987 and has gone from newsheet, appearing every six strength to strength since. The un- for us. In October 1997 weeks, things were about to derpinning values are exactly the www.swindonlink.com was change. Five hundred copies of the same: to provide useful news, launched, almost the first site dedifirst newsletter had been photo- views and information, in our geo- cated to the town. Now we’ve copied and distributed around the graphical target areas, first in West brought paper and electronic vernew houses in Toothill and Swindon, and from 1994 in North sions together so you can now read Freshbrook. Eight years later 8,000 Swindon as the new housing was this exact page in our virtual edition online wherever you are. were being printed. The newslet- occupied. Another ter was informative but it did not feature of The Link is come out regularly enough and that we’ve always limited advertising revenue meant been free of charge and entirely funded it was no longer viable.

The Link was re-launched as a by advertising.

Twenty years later commercial monthly magazine in we’re still here and stronger than ever, providing an alternative perspective and outlet for information to the daily paper.

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January 1987, we publicised the visit by Princess Anne to open Greendown in March that year. The school in Grange Park had opened to its first pupils in September 1986.

• Mr O departs.

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Council agreement on Lower Shaw Farm rests on the power of words

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Non-campaign becomes watchful silence “If they had huffed and puffed a little more, they might have blown the farm down,” was the first comment from a confused Lower Shaw Farm supporter after Swindon Council passed a motion to keep the farm open on 23 November.

All three parties overwhelmThis vague set of words worries ingly voted for the final motion: supporters who inundated leader “the council will reaffirm its sup- of the council Rod Bluh with eport for the activities provided by mails and letters throughout Nothe trustees of the farm and be- vember arguing that the proposal lieves that the way ahead agreed to close the farm was completely with trustees will seek to secure and utterly wrong.

Continued over the future of these activities.”

Lower Shaw Farm supporters, before the council meeting.

There were confused smiles afterwards

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Farm is an example to rest of the country Lower Shaw Farm has been hailed by the Government as an example of good practice in the provision of education beyond the national curriculum.

Launching the Learning Outside the Class manifesto in late November, Education Secretary Alan Johnson urged schools to use the educational resources beyond school grounds to motivate and inspire pupils.

South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove, who twice raised the plight of Lower Shaw Farm in Parliament in November, said, “I was de- Members of the Peatmoor Primary School lighted that Alan Johnson ecology group visiting the farm in November recognised the special na- for practical lessons in eco matters ture of the educational work at was under threat recently and I’m Lower Shaw Farm when he glad they listened. launched the manifesto.

“As a former teacher I saw the “I spoke to education ministers potential for cross-curricular learnabout the wonderful resource we ing at Lower Shaw Farm as soon have in Swindon when the farm as I walked through the gate.”

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Lower Shaw Farm. Watching what the council get up to. Continued Originally the council wanted to carry out a ‘re-sophistication’ of the Grade II listed farmhouse, and sell the rest of the land for executive housing. But, as protest swelled, behind the scenes meetings took place between coun Bluh and farm trustee Matt Holland to find a way to keep the farm going.

After the council meeting Matt said, “we have to rely on the myword-is-my-bond’ principle. We have made an agreement with the council which sets out the terms of how we go forward to develop the exciting future for Lower Shaw Farm. We have faith in the council leader and his colleagues standing by their word.”

better value from the site, and will allow the valuable work which goes on at Lower Shaw to continue.”

Matt Holland said, “through listening to one another, understanding one another’s position, plus reasoned, imaginative, and informed discussion, the council and the farm’s trustees have been able to agree a solution which achieves positive results all round.

“We hope it will offer an exciting opportunity to create an environmentally-friendly development which complements the work we do at the farm and is great for Swindon.”

Kevin Fisher from Shaw was not

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The joint press release refers to the lease being renewed on a long term basis and activities at the farm continuing, with some of the land being used for high-quality sustainable homes. Rod Bluh said, “throughout the public debate about the future of Lower Shaw Farm we have been involved in constructive talks with Matt Holland, and I am pleased that we have been able to reach a positive agreement which is acceptable to both parties.

“What we now have is an agreement which will allow us to get

impressed by the way the decision came about. “The agreement is a victory for common sense, in spite of the childishness and the ya-boo politics in the council chamber.

“Fulfilling the vague motion relies on a huge leap of faith and trust. Let’s hope that for everyone’s sake, it really is honoured. The protest against the council’s sell-off plan never became an organised campaign. The upsurge of outrage showed councillors out of touch with popular feeling. If they renege on the agreement, just see what kind of campaign could be organised.”

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“The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle and, in fact, won a competition to name the Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840 leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.”

Editorial copy date for

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Junction closure plan blocked by Redhouse opinion Public meetings are often marked by a lot of grumbling, resulting in much acrimony. Unusually on 4 December, 350 Redhouse residents were able to cheer and clap at the beginning of a meeting when councillor Justin Tomlinson announced that Junction 6A on Thamesdown Drive would not close.

After the November Link first revealed that the road was due to close at the end of the year, hundreds of angry letters and e-mails crashed into the inboxes of ward councillors Justin Tomlinson, Peter Stoddart and Owen Lister.

Several residents took it upon themselves to copy and distribute The Link story to raise awareness of Redhouse crowd behind the victory smiles of councillors Owen Lister, what might happen.

Justin Tomlinson, Peter Stoddart The outline plan agreed Coun Tomlinson told the meetbetween the North Swindon Development Company and Swin- ing that he had received nearly 200 don Council in the late 1990s des- e-mails and many offers of help to ignated the junction as a bus only campaign against the closure. route. It has been kept open to all “This weight of opinion gave the traffic to allow access to construc- three ward councillors a great deal tion sites. But with the growing of ammunition to argue against numbers of vehicles accessing Red- closure and I’m pleased to say that house from the junction, highway the borough council planners have planners were increasingly wor- agreed that the original plan will ried that the short queuing lane not be implemented.

“Steps are being taken to alter was creating a hazard on Thamesdown Drive as vehicles the legal terms so that there are no were waiting to turn right in the anomalies in legal searches on future house purchases. main carriageway.

“Consultants have been engaged But in the last five years people have bought the houses and very to investigate how Junction 6A can few were told by sales staff that be kept open safely, and make rectheir main point of access would ommendations for road improveeventually close. If it had - along ments if necessary.”

He thanked Redhouse residents with the closure of Lady Lane - all traffic to 1,200 homes on the east for expressing themselves so forceside of Redhouse would have had fully, Blunsdon Parish Council to travel from Junction 7 along East- which agreed the road should stay bury Way, including anybody go- open and The Link for drawing eveing to and from Bridlewood Pri- rybody’s attention to the issue in the first place. mary School.

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Because the Junction 6A issue was dealt with so quickly there was time for other Priory Vale issues to be raised at the meeting: Planning densities and traffic congestion. Councillor Tomlinson said that Priory Vale has been developed using Central Government planning guidance which has raised housing density and reduced the number of car parking spaces. He said it was intensely frustrating that housing developers can submit planning applications with the backing of these guidelines and local councillors have few powers to modify or block them. See developer guideline story on page 6.

Condition of estate roads. Residents want them completed earlier, but were told developers will not do this until all house building is completed so that finishing work can be undertaken before handing over to the borough council for future maintenance.

Lady Lane closure. This was agreed in 2003 and Ash Brake residents have been pressing for the road to be shut by the roundabout at Pennine Way. Councillors Tomlinson and Stoddart agree that closing it will make the walk to Bridlewood Primary safer. Coun Lister believes that parents will be driving to the school from a wider area in a few years time and wants it to stay open. The councillors promised further discussion on the closure Complaints about Thamesdown Transport. Because there are too few car parking spaces in Redhouse, owners are parking on the main bus routes which can cause traffic jams. Occasionally this results in standoffs between residents and bus drivers. The councillors requested specific information on dates, times and bus numbers if residents want to raises concerns about conflicts and road rage.

Redhouse Way crossing. A pedestrian crossing was called for close to the Learning Campus and councillors are investigating this.

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First Redhouse shops ready by summer Work on the first five commercial units in Redhouse Village Centre has started largely unnoticed by many but is progressing well and they should be open for business this summer.

The developers have been in As reported in the January 2006 ing on their established business phase of the development will be Link, the development of the cen- at Freshbrook centre. A Chinese determined by market interest in talks with the Baptist congregatre is scheduled in two phases. The takeaway, a fish and chip shop the development. ”We’re talking tion about a church in the centre. second phase will comprise a and a florist will take the other to various pub operators and other As yet, there are not enough peochurch, pub, medical centre and three units. Unlike other village businesses; I think that it will only ple living in the area to warrant a more shops and will be completed centres in Swindon, residential take two to three years before it’s medical centre. www.prioryvale.com properties will be fully integrated all finished.” within three years.

Chris Cain, Crest Nicholson into the Redhouse centre. In the Development Manager, said that first phase there will be apartments Council to draw up developer conduct guide there are tenants committed or on three storeys above the shops. After numerous complaints from Priory Vale residents about the Because of the lack of movement attitude of house developers active in the area, Swindon Council is to negotiating for all five properties in the first phase. The Smile chain on the ground, readers have been start work this month on drawing up a voluntary code of conduct. will open the convenience store contacting The Link about rumours Councillor Justin Tomlinson ar- roads. The council is presently and Redhouse residents Paul and concerning the centre. ranged for residents from unable to impose speed restrictions Now that work has started Mr Sheila Edwards will open another Oakhurst to meet with Celia until roads are handed over from branch of Hairworks salon, build- Cain said the timing of the second Carrington, Director of Environ- the builders and adopted by the ment and Leisure Services in early council. A clause in the planning December to discuss concerns conditions stating a timeframe for about the big building contractors adoption is being considered.

The code will be posted on the operating in Priory Vale.

“Myself and local residents are council’s web site when prepared increasingly annoyed at develop- and residents will be able to check er’s actions after the planning ap- which builders have signed up.

North Swindon MP Michael plication stage,” said coun Tomlinson. “The meeting was ex- Wills has created a new page on tremely productive, as it allowed his website, called Developer us as a council to look at the way Watch. ‘Many of my constituents we need to deal with developers who have bought new homes have found that the sales talk has not for the benefit of local residents.

“The contribution from residents been matched by reality,’ he writes. was very important as they are ‘This page will provide an opportunity to monitor the performance affected day to day.”

As well as working with devel- of the developers and the council opers on the voluntary code of con- in maintaining the North Swindon duct, the council will be aiming to area.’ www.michaelwills.labour.co.uk tighten up the policy on adopted www.debt-assist.com

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 7

Police re-open West operations office Police staff have again set up a base in West Swindon, two years after they were moved to new headquarters at Gablecross to the east of the town.

Although the former doctor’s surgery opposite Link Centre was purchased to act as a sub-police station after Westlea station was closed, the public call office only opened for a few months and officers had to report for duty at Gablecross before travelling 9 miles to work in West Swindon.

Since mid-December they now Tackling crime and disorder in West Swindon, from left, PC Laurence Copeland start their shift at the office called (covering Toothill & Westlea), Team Manager PC Tim Titchner, PCSO Richard West Point on Link Avenue.

Lane, PCSO Amanda Luker, PC Stefan Watts (Toothill & Westlea), PC Shaun Team manager PC Tim Titchner Tregunna and PC Ben Hooper (both Freshbrook & Grange Park), Inspector Adrian said being based in the West means Burt, Allan Coutts, office manager, team sergeant Marc Sellers, WPC Pat Salter that much more time will be spent (Shaw, Nine Elms, Sparcells, Peatmoor) on the beat. “Recently we’ve been dealing with low level anti-social ers (PCSO) focused on the 11,000 behaviour, an increase in vehicle homes in West Swindon. crime, joy riding around the streets • New to the team is Sergeant Mark and far too many garage and shed Sellers who has come from cus1 You drop it off break ins. As usual it’s a minority tody, so he will know many of the 2 We sell it on eBay for you of people doing the majority of offenders picked up by his col3 We send you a cheque crime. But we’re now able to focus leagues. New to Freshbrook and Turn your treasures into cash a lot more effort on the area and Grange Park is Shaun Tregunna and let us sell your unwanted give the people breaking the law who transfers from the response squad. more of our attention.” items on eBay for you.

On 19 February officers will forLock it up! mally be constituted as a Neigh- Theft of bikes, scooters and equipbourhood Police Team, a Govern- ment from sheds and garages is Let Us Auction It Ltd, BSS House, Unit 36 ment backed initiative to direct increasing because people are not Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2PJ more resources to deal with crime locking them up. and disorder at a community level.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Ramleaze Drive crossing hope Over 130 people have signed a petition calling on Swindon Council to provide a safe pedestrian crossing to and from Shaw Village Centre.

Range of topics for West Forum on 8 January The next discussion between West Swindon residents and the eight Swindon councillors representing the area takes place on Monday 8 January, 7.30pm in the community suite at Link Centre.

The agenda has not been confirmed but items for discussion could include: • December’s floods in Toothill and Grange Park; • The progress of the school rebuilding programme in Toothill and Freshbrook; • The future of social halls and community centres. Upper Shaw Farm social centre is likely to close, a question mark hangs over Freshbrook Community Centre; • Ramleaze Drive pedestrian crossing.

The West Swindon Forum is open to all residents of the area who are invited to raise other issues at the meeting.

Rachel Tomlinson from Ramleaze who started the petition in November said, “the blind bend opposite the doctor’s surgery makes it impossible to see vehicles. Many parents and children walk the route to Brook Field Primary; the council needs to do something about our safety.”

Shaw councillor Keith Williams said Mrs Tomlinson had raised an important concern and he had asked for the site to be considered in January at the next road safety Braving Ramleaze Drive, Rachel Tomlinson with husband David and their chilproject board. dren; Tracey Godwin and Luke; Jayne Ash and Sean

Papermakers redevelopment could pose pedestrian problems Papermakers House on the corner of Ashington Way and Rivenhall Road is being redeveloped to include two retail units on the ground floor alongside Barclays Bank while retaining offices on the first floor.

Toothill and Westlea councillor Steve Wakefield has expressed concern that this will create increased hazards for pedestrians crossing from the West Swindon Centre to the shops, bank and the nearby medical centre.

“I welcome the conversion proposal as anything that brings jobs and prosperity to the area is good news. But I am concerned about an increase in pedestrian traffic in this area as three busy roads meet at the roundabout outside Papermakers House. We will need to look at measures to alert drivers and improved safety.”

Pedestrian dangers at busy three way junction

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Is there room for more screens?

THE ALL NEW

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A taste of the Orient in the heart of Swindon

A planned multi-screen cinema in the town centre will mean more competition for West Swindon’s Cineworld at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, but manager John Kiel remains unfazed.

As part of the redevelopment of horses for courses.”

He said that Shaw Ridge was as Granville Street, an 8 screen complex is expected to open by 2010. popular as ever and the latest Bond With over 25 years experience as a movie, Casino Royale, and Happy cinema manager, Mr Kiel said that Feet, had drawn in large crowds he has seen a lot of changes over throughout November and Dethe years but he believes that there cember.

When UGC was taken over by will still be an audience at Shaw Cineworld in 2005, competition Ridge.

“I’ve worked for the same outfit regulations meant that they had to for 26 years and it’s been taken sell their Greenbridge movie theaover 14 times. But we’re still open tre and it was taken over by Emand we still need staff and man- pire.

With more screens coming, it agement.

“When Shaw Ridge was built, remains to be seen whether film the trend was to build out of town fans from West and North Swincomplexes. In the 1990s, the gov- don will want to trek into the town ernment wanted them back in town centre to see the latest movie. Mr so the police could control things Kiel is confident that Shaw Ridge better. Things change and it’s hard will hold its own against the comto say which is best. It’s a case of petition.

Wind turbine tests underway at Windmill Hill Ironically, installation of a mast with equipment to test wind patterns and speed at Windmill Hill Business Park was delayed for a couple of days in early December because of gale force winds.

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1 January 07

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X 1

3 4

X marks where the wind turbine will be located. Orientation: 1 the traditional windmill moved from Chiseldon and rebuilt at the business park in the mid-1980s; 2 Great Western Way; 3 Whitehill Way and Freshbrook; 4 Hook Street and Grange Park

Now in place, the wind meter will provide data to help determine whether the location is suitable for a wind turbine.

The project is being run by npower-Renewables and park owners, St Martins Property Investments.

“Our early energy predictions show that a turbine at Windmill Hill could meet the average annual electricity needs of up to 800 homes,” said Pete Forest, npower renewables development manager.

A public exhibition is planned for early this year and an application for planning permission will be submitted in the next few months. The wind turbine will be similar to the one beside the M4 in Reading. It will tower 85m high and the rotor diameter is 70m.

Freshbrook and Grange Park,

15/12/06, 2:40 pm

councillor Michael Bray is supportive of the plan. “I’m behind the idea of green power. This turbine is going to be some distance from the nearest residential area and they’re not noisy.”

In early December all 12,000 homes in West Swindon received in the post the first edition of Wind Power News from npower Renewables explaining the scheme.

Although a dedicated phone number and email address has been set up, at the time of going to press, only two emails had been received by npower.

Anyone who would like to make their views heard should visit www.npower-renewables.com/ windmillhill or call 0845 337 3420 • MP Anne Snelgrove plays npower cricket at Toothill Primary School.

See page 32

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14/12/06, 12:13 pm

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Search for Isambard staff begins Rachel Mattey, headteacher at the Isambard Community School on the North Swindon Learning Campus, has spent a busy few months putting in the groundwork for setting up the new school, but admits that life has been fairly quiet without any pupils around.

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Looking forward to moving in. Rachel Mattey outside the futuristic entrance to Isambard Community School which will be completed in May

“It feels rather strange to be working in isolation when I’m used to the activities and bustle of over 1,000 children around; I’m missing them. I’ve been visiting the local primaries though, so that has kept me going.”

Currently based at Orchid Vale Primary in Haydon Wick, Ms Mattey is hoping to move to the new building on the campus in January, although her office will not be ready until later in the year.

She has been drawing up curriculum and staffing plans and will soon be appointing staff. First on the list will be her PA, followed by a business manager and assistant head. A special needs co-ordinator will also be appointed early to ensure a smooth transition for children with statements transferring from primary school.

Next term, work will continue

on ordering books, fitting out the library and, when staff are in place, preparing detailed curriculum delivery plans.

Isambard will open to Year 7 children in September. To prepare the present Year 6 pupils for the move, Ms Mattey will be spending time visiting them and will work with groups to draw up school policies, well in advance of their arrival.

Although final figures of the numbers signed up for Isambard will not be known until March, Ms Mattey said that indications from Swindon Council’s admissions department are that the majority of the 240 places in the first year will be accounted for, with a few spaces available for families moving into the area. She said that she was pleased that so many parents had put their faith in the school.

Parents surf for school places

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1 January 07

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Online applications to secondary schools in Swindon have soared in the second year of being offered to parents The eAdmissions National Online school admissions are now Project, the team which has led 150 available across the country to 1.5 local authorities in the delivery of million children and their parents, online school admissions, reported making applications to over 21,000 in early December that 34 per cent schools. of parents applying in Swindon Although all applications, for secondary school places in whether paper or online, are proc2007, is considerably higher than essed at the same time, high takethe national average of 18 per cent, up of the online service has been and way above the 5 to 10 per cent driven by the significant benefits target set by the Department for to parents, schools and local auCommunities and Local Govern- thorities. Parents, for example, are ment (DCLG). able to easily retrieve and amend Last year when the service was the application as many times as launched in Swindon only 8 per necessary right up until the deadcent applied online. line date. They also enjoy the peace Swindon ranked fourteenth out of mind that comes with receiving of the 150 authorities involved, an immediate confirmation of rewith parents in Hertfordshire ceipt via email when the applicaachieving over 68 per cent in its tion is completed. fifth year of offering the service. www.eadmissions.org

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 15

A university challenge for third-agers The controversial University of Bath campus at Coate may be a long time coming but meanwhile, over 50s can enrol in their own university known as U3A. The University of the Third Age does not award degrees but is about gardening, scrabble, walking and yoga. In fact, life in retirement can be bringing people together to learn just for their own pleasure. It is run by quite hectic. its members who share their knowledge and skills to offer a range of No academic qualifications are needed to join any of the courses and over 60 daytime study and leisure groups in fifty different subjects. there are no exams to take. Anyone who has an interest they would like There should be something for everyone with topics ranging from to share with others can offer to lead a group, with no teaching arts and crafts, history, languages, literature, music and science. As experience necessary. well as the academic, there are recreational sessions including croquet, If life is split into three phases, the first age is childhood, the second is the time when work, family responsibilities and career are a priority, and the third age represents retirement and freedom. Approximately one fifth of the population now belongs to the third age, outnumbering teenagers.

The U3A offers opportunities to keep minds active, develop new When Freshbrook Primary School wanted an after school club with skills, explore new horizons and meet new people. For an annual fee of a difference, they hit on the idea of a drumming group and recruited £18, members can attend as many activities as they wish. To find out Kaya Drums to help out. more, contact Brian Hinde on 642634 Drum circles are a well recog- thing: even the legs of their chairs. nised way of bringing groups to- “It’s about freedom of expression gether, so it seemed the ideal op- within safe boundaries. The Purton House portunity to invite pupils from youngsters have learned to play Church End Windmill Hill Primary to come different rhythms against each along, as the two schools prepare other and sometimes create a story Purton, Swindon and accompany it. to merge in September.

Tel: 01793 772287 “It’s also an excellent way of Year 3 teacher Ruth Kendrick said that three children from Wind- reaching children who find acaVEGETABLES • FRUIT • MEAT • EGGS mill Hill had joined the group and demic lessons a bit uncomfortable. there will be an invitation for more It’s about teamwork and learning to join the group in the new term. to work together.” www.kayadrums.com “The most important aspect of drumming is turnAlex Miles with drummers from Freshbrook taking and sharing. and Windmill Hill Primary Schools There’s a lot of concentrating and lisDeliveries & drop off points in Swindon, Cirencester, tening going on,” Wootton Bassett, Broad Hinton, Marlborough, Wroughton she said. She has also www.purton-house.co.uk seen the children’s confidence and self esteem grown as they perform together.

Alex Miles from Kaya Drums brings along a variety of percussion instruments, and shows the children that they can make music with almost any-

Drum circle creates team spirit across two schools

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Wearing blue to banish bullies Freshbrook pupils sent out a message in November during National Anti-Bullying Week that bullies aren’t welcome in their school, by wearing blue clothes and decorating the gates with blue ribbons.

Blue Friday marked the end of a class was given a pack of blue ribweek’s activities focused on bully- bons which were gradually fixed ing. The main theme this year for to the gate. Year 6 designed postthe national campaign was ‘the ers and a mosaic saying ‘Bullies bystander’. The children talked Aren’t Cool’ was created to hang about what they would do if they in the school entrance.

Friendship tokens, given to Year saw somebody being picked on.

PHSE Co-ordinator, Alison 1 pupils, have been a great success Stone, said the children knew ex- and are still in circulation. “They actly what to do. As well as telling give them out if they see someone adults, pupils can report problems being kind,” explained Ms Stone. to members of the school council “They love being given something or peer mentors, who have proved by another child.”

Although there is very little bulvery effective at resolving problems. “Some children feel more lying in the school, Ms Stone said it confident talking to other children was good to reinforce the mesrather than adults and they like sage. “The children were fantastic knowing it will be dealt with and the assemblies were amazing.

They raised lots of points that we straight away.”

At the start of the week, each hadn’t thought of.”

1 January 07

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14/12/06, 12:14 pm

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Special secondary school settles in The students and staff at Uplands love their new state of the art building and they’re looking forward to strengthening links with the other schools on the North Swindon Learning Campus and the community at large.

Head, Mary Bishop, pool. With it on site a lot more time was involved in the can be focused on the children. design from the very One wing of the building is for outset when Swindon 16 plus students who can stay on Council started disuntil they are aged twenty and cussing new special follow a life skills’ curriculum. school provision in They have their own common 1997. “It’s been a long room, where the pool table is very time coming and we’re popular and life skills are pracabsolutely delighted tised in a fully equipped flat. It has with what we’ve got,” its own garden, complete with she said. greenhouse and shed, where stuShe paid tribute to dents will soon be growing their the belief by Swindon Tour guides Johnathan Kinder, Jason Newman, Natalie Council in special Mordaccai serving tea to Link reporter Barbara Prothero needs’ provision. “A and teacher Maddy Smithson. Right, Christian Smith, few years ago, special about to take a dive into the ball pond schools went through an uncertain period nationally. But and the corridors are wide enough we’re fortunate that Swindon for two wheelchairs.”

Uplands now offers state of the Council never waivered from their commitment to provide purpose art music and food technology built accommodation for children rooms, an ICT suite, sensory rooms with special needs. It’s only now and a multi-gym with fitness that we’re here that we realise what equipment. Outside, there is an a difference the building makes to adventure playground, sensory garden and plenty of room both on everybody.

“It’s twice the size of the previ- hard standing for wheelchair usous building at Penhill and I be- ers and a large playing field.

A multi-agency area shared with lieve we have just about every facility we could require. The space Brimble Hill Primary next door helps create a calm environment includes physiotherapy and occupational therapy rooms and houses own vegetables and flowers. a hydrotherapy pool. Previously The students run a coffee shop, students had to be transported to a serving homemade cakes, on Thursdays 10.30am to 11.30am and all members of the community are welcome to drop in: just ask for directions at reception.

SUPERB TEACHERS Mrs Bishop is looking forward to working with children and staff WANTED at Isambard Community School Great students when it opens in September. “It’s a plus to be close to a mainstream Excellent conditions secondary school. We want to work Terrific pay with them to develop some effective inclusion projects.”

Variety of evening and

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Left, Skye Duller practicing her karaoke in the sound sensory space

Call 01793 728481

Below, in the light and surface sensory room Jason, Natalie and Johnathan with Vanessa Mapstone

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1 January 07

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14/12/06, 12:15 pm

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 17

Heading into the good life Retiring after 21 years at Greendown, Head Teacher Steve O’Sullivan is leaving the school on a high after it achieved its best ever GCSE results last summer and is now ranked in the top 25 per cent of schools in the country for added value.

“Hopefully, we’ll achieve specialist status before I leave: that would more animals and polytunnels for growing vegetables and pursuing a be the icing on the cake,” he said. An HMI inspection is booked and this pastoral lifestyle. will be the final hurdle before the school learns whether it will become Mr O’Sullivan, who was deputy head when the school opened in a specialist maths, computing and sport college.

September 1986, has seen it grow from a single year group to its current Mr O’Sullivan, 57, decided to retire early following the birth of two capacity of 1,300. “One thing that hasn’t changed over the years is the grandchildren in the summer. “For 35 years, I’ve put work first but I feel passion of the staff here to do their best for youngsters and to keep the now it is time to put family first.” He and his wife Sue will be moving child at the centre of everything. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my 21 years north to be nearer to family, and to fulfil their dream of owning a at Greendown. There’s never been a day when I didn’t want to come to smallholding. They’ll be taking their growing menagerie of ducks, work.” geese and hens with them and hope to buy a property with space for He said that knowing that there is a very strong, dynamic leadership team in place at the school made the decision to leave easier. Deputy head Clive Zimmerman, will be acting head until the end of this school year and the governors are about to begin the process of making a “There are some excellent cooks in West Swindon,” said Greendown permanent appointment. headteacher Steve O’Sullivan, having watched five youngsters from West Swindon primary schools take over the school’s food technology room in early December to prepare a dish before serving it for judges to try out.

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Competitive cooks, left to right, Kerrie Carrington, Daniel Loyden, Robyn George, Sanjidah Ali, Hannah Green, with Greendown helpers and staff, from left, Charlotte Spooner, Danielle Black, Alison Bagnell, Debbie Sheehan, Steve O’Sullivan, Nicola Rooke, Mike Rule, Katrina Thomas, Angela Proctor

The school decided to continue a competition for young cooks in West Swindon, after Nationwide cut funding for a town wide competition. And because the standard of entries was so high five finalists were chosen instead of the original four.

Organising teacher Angela Proctor said participants had so much fun in the last two competitions that Greendown decided to offer a Junior Gourmet @ Greendown shield, plus prizes for individuals and their primary schools.

Most of the youngsters had only watched parents cook; this was their chance to get involved. Daniel Loyden from Tregoze Primary introduced a regional flavour to the competition. “I asked my nan in Liverpool for a recipe and she showed me how to cook Scouse, which has mince, carrots and potatoes.”

Robyn George from Brook Field liked her dad’s barbecued kebabs and her mum agreed they would be quick, tasty and healthy.

Sandjideh Ali from Freshbrook picked up tips from her mother on how to make Brinjal delights and Hannah Green was encouraged by her mum to try a favourite dish, spaghetti bolognese.

Former Salt Way pupil Kerri

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Carrington, now at Shaw Ridge, was very inventive and amended an existing recipe to cook stuffed pork with green beans and a spicy sauce. “My mum said try out a chicken dish but I changed it to pork because I thought it would be nicer,” she said.

That little bit of extra effort won Kerri the shield and £50 worth of food technology equipment for her school.

“The entries were all of a high standard,” said Mr O’Sullivan.

“The youngsters showed a lot of flair and the final dishes were really tasty.”

Sponsor needed for next year Greendown is looking to business to support next year’s Gourmet @ Greendown competition. For details contact Angela Proctor, Primary Liaison Coordinator, on 874224.

Women & debt New College student Rebekah Bowen is researching the issue for her Communications A level and would like to hear from females aged 15 to 25. To help her with a survey mail her by 10 January to receive ten key questions on spending patterns: rebekah_bowen@yahoo.co.uk www.newcollege.ac.uk

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Mediation takes the heat out of disputes and keeps legal costs down For 25 years, the Family Mediation Service has been offering couples in dispute help to make practical arrangements before separating and moving on.

The Milton Road based service, reduce bitterness which is provided by professionally will make things easier for trained volunteers in a neutral and the couple and their chilconfidential environment. The aim dren in the future. is to help people to think about If children or young peowhat’s best for the children of a ple need help in coming to family and agree what should hap- terms with changes in the pen about money and property. family set up, child counGoing through mediation can selling is available. keep the legal fees down in a diAt other times, commuvorce, but it will still be necessary nication between parents to use a solicitor. The process can and older children may help improve communication and break down to the point that they find it no longer Wendy Hall with Family Mediation office administrator Jenny Bassett who was presented with an possible to live at home. engraved glass bowl for her 25 years service by the Re-Connect mediators can Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire on 30 November help families talk and really listen to each other. mediators work in pairs and first Chief executive Wendy Hall said visit parties involved in their own Ofsted & NCMA Family Mediation started in a homes. Then, if both sides agree, a shared room at the magistrates meeting is set up where the mediaRegistered Childminder court. “Swindon was the fourth in tors make sure that everyone has Full Time - Part Time Britain to set up a mediation serv- their fair say, which hopefully will School Holidays ice. And for nine years we hosted lead to a peaceful solution and reContact Dee to arrange the National Family Mediation duction in community tension. a visit or interview organisation in our office.

If you think mediation could “We’ve estimated that since 1981 help call 527285. on 01793 702548 we’ve assisted 25,000 adults and www.northwiltsfms.co.uk or 07956424886 children in Swindon and the surOr mail rounding area. From just family dee.hayward@yahoo.co.uk Places in the North support, we now coordinate 5 servwww.care-for-kids.co.uk ices covering mediation and help- St John’s Pre-School, Westfield ing families function in difficult Way, Haydon Wick, located next circumstances.” to Morrison’s, has places available One of them includes Commu- for children from 30 months to nity Mediation which helps resolve school age. disputes between neighbours over For details about the pre-school issues such as noise, car parking call Stephanie Slade on 07879 and garden boundaries. Trained 623507

Breasts are best in the West Peer support for breastfeeding mothers, which has proved popular and effective in North Swindon, has started at the West Swindon Family Centre.

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QUALITY CHILDCARE SUPERB FACILITIES Bright Start Day Nursery offers: A happy and stimulating environment for your child Quality childcare for children aged 3 months to five years - am, pm, school day, all day Specialist teacher for Early Years Education Highly motivated, experienced, caring staff Full free funded Early Education placesavailable to children aged 3 and over Excellent recent OFSTED inspection report For more information or to arrange a visit telephone Cathy on 01793 722063 Bright Start Day Nursery is part of the Sure Start Children’s Centre

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Breast Mates West Swindon, above, meets on Monday mornings 10am to 11.30am at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. The idea behind the group is that mothers who are still feeding their own children are trained to support others. New groups are trained every six months so that there are always mums with young babies on hand to talk to.

Whilst health visitors help set up the groups, they are run by the members. The informal drop-in sessions are a chance to talk to people who’ve been through the same kind of problems and it’s also a great opportunity to make new friends.

For details, call Donna Anderson on 879414 New venue for Breast Mates North From Monday 8 January the group will meet at Abbey Meads Primary School from 12.30pm to 2pm. Breast feeding mums are invited to drop in for advice, help and a friendly chat.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 19

Everyday advice on working with those little angels Dr Tanya Byron, specialist in child behaviour and TV presenter, was the keynote speaker at Sure Start’s annual conference at the De Vere Hotel in November.

Best known for appearances on BBC’s House of Tiny Tearaways, Little Angels and Teen Angels, Tanya addressed an audience including teachers, nursery workers, child minders and parents.

She spoke about positive methods of managing behaviour and said that parents should have confidence in their own ability to solve problems as they are always the experts when it comes to their own children.

She also confessed that her own about the need to challenge chilchildren sometimes pick her up on dren to think.

Later in the day, delegates found her parenting technique and have been known to complain that she themselves entranced by professional story teller, Mary Medlicott doesn’t take her own advice.

Carmel Burton, Sure Start Part- and there were more ideas for capnership Manager said, “she was turing the imagination at a puppet absolutely wonderful. She spoke workshop and a talk entitled Tacwarmly and didn’t make people tile Tales.

Carmel said that the aim of the feel bad about what they do as conference was to send people parents.”

The theme of the day was En- away feeling enlivened and engaging in Communication. Tanya thused. “We try to give them food was followed by Marion Dowling, for thought; on an intellectual level President of the British Associa- and with practical hints and tips. It tion of Early Childhood, who spoke was a really good day.”

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Over the last two years Reckitt Benckiser, the international household goods manufacturer based in the town, has helped 30 local charities, voluntary groups, schools and health centres since it launched The Dettol Foundation.

Charities and voluntary groups like Koalas Swindon Opportunity Group and CALM have received grants, as well as schools and health centres. The foundation has also worked closely with the Swindon & Marlborough NHS Trust, refurbishing two children’s play areas at the hospital, as well as supporting Marlborough House - an adolescent service for young people aged 12 to 18 with severe emotional difficulties - and the Rainbow Club - a bereavement group for young children.

The foundation has also given out hundreds of reflective baseball caps to school pupils and donated new coats to Swindon’s lollipop ladies to keep them warm during the winter months.

Donations are made to causes that: work with and help young children; work with and help families; are based in and around the Swindon area. For a full list of beneficiaries and details of how to apply go to: www.dettol.co.uk/foundation.shtml

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W I D E W I D W I DE E Swashbuckle to Bristol for a great family show With no Wyvern pantomime this year, a swashbuckling production of the Three Musketeers at Bristol’s Old Vic is a good way to start the year.

This new version of Dumas’ things stand in their way – the bastian, who played Kenneth greatest adventure story was spe- plans of the evil Cardinal Richelieu Williams in the West End produccially commissioned and features and the beautiful spy Milady. tion of Round the Horne Revisited, The sword fights promise to be appears as the wicked Cardinal several TV stars taking to a different stage packed with music, com- spectacular as they are choreo- Richelieu. Laura Rogers is the evil edy, romance and swordfights. The graphed by Richard Ryan, who temptress Milady and has recently updated story is suitable for chil- worked with Brad Pitt and Eric Bana appeared in The Barber of Seville on Troy. dren over eight. at Bristol Old Vic. The young D’Artagnan dreams The 12 strong cast includes Gerald Kyd as Athos is well of becoming one the king’s famous George Rainsford as D’Artagnan known as Dr Sean Maddox in musketeers. He sets out from rural in his theatrical debut. Robin Se- BBC’s Casualty and Charity Gasgony to the Wakefield, who plays Constance, bustle of Paris was seen as Miss Temple in the where he meets BBC’s Jane Eyre. three musketeers The flamboyant production runs and embarks upon until 20 January. Tickets are availan adventure. Toable from the box office 0117 987 gether they travel 7877. A family ticket for four costs across France to from £18. www.bristol-old.vic.co.uk England as they fight to protect the honour of the queen. Only two

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Vyelle Croom, Gerald Kyd and Paul Agar as The Three Musketeers.

Photo: Toby Farrow

Swindon manager should go far Andrew Hill, theatre director at the Wyvern,has been recognised for making an impact for his company when he was awarded the Institute of Entertainment and Arts Professionals Rising Star Award at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden in November.

Andrew won it for his excellent self won the Waterford Crystal leadership and work at the Wyvern Award for a lifetime commitment to theatre over the 18 months since the profession at the ceremony.

Hethrington-Seelig took over its Andrew commented, “I am demanagement. lighted to win this award; it is a He was presented with the award credit to the team at the theatre. It by actress June Whitfield, who her- has been a difficult time here recently but this is great news and we look forward to opening as soon as possible.”

The Wyvern has been closed since September after asbestos was found in the ceiling. It has now been cleared and the auditorium is undergoing a complete refurbishment. The theatre should reopen by June.

Andrew, left, shortly after the Wyvern was closed

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www.bristol-old-vic.co.uk

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Swindon Wide

Speed date for your time and talents in 2007 Volunteer Centre Swindon is putting out a challenge: find out in 3 minutes how you can begin to make a real difference on 23 January.

Maybe you have managerial, If you have been thinking about volunteering for ages, but are not marketing or financial skills, in quite sure what to do, or which which case you may be interested charity to support, then this is a fun in finding out about becoming a charity trustee, or a school goverway to get started.

Volunteering can help you as nor. If your interest lies in counselmuch as the projects you support. ling, supporting or advising then Just book a slot on one of the there will be opportunities for you speed matching sessions and give to find out more about that too.

The Volunteer Centre guarana selection of local organisations just 180 seconds each to impress tee there will be something to catch your fancy - no matter what your you.

Anyone already familiar with the interests, passions or time comidea of speed dating will know how mitments.

Do you have to sign up to this works. If it’s a new idea to you, volunteer on the day? don’t worry, somebody will help Not necessarily. Taking on a volyou connect. untary job is not something to rush.

What’s in it for you?

On offer will be information about The event is a fun way of getting helping other people across Swin- people interested which will lead to don, and about working in conser- a decision on the day, or sometime later. vation projects.

The Speed Date takes place at Organisations taking part will include those that help people who The Pilgrim Centre on Tuesday 23 are young and not so young, peo- January. There are two sessions: ple with physical and learning dis- Session 1 - 6.30pm to 7.30pm or abilities, people who are home- Session 2 - 8pm to 9pm.

To book a place call Volunteer less, or experiencing mental distress, and people in hospitals, hos- Centre Swindon on 420557 or mail: info@swindonvolunteers.org.uk pices and day centres.

Exquisite bowls on display Swindon textile artist Kathy Danswan, left, who specialises in embroidered felt wall hangings and silk bowls, holds an exhibition at the West Swindon Library from 3 to 20 January to coincide with the publication of her book Beautiful

Bowls and Colourful Creatures.

She will be talking about her work and signing her book on Saturday 6 January from 10am to 12noon and 2pm to 3pm.

Make a difference as a school governor Schools across Swindon are appealing for volunteers to join their governing bodies.

Governors are critical to the effective running of schools and with the town’s current vacancy rate at 12 per cent there are some170 places that need filling. Contrary to popular misconception volunteers do not need to be parents or have any specific skills or knowledge of the education system to add value to a school governing body. Anyone from any background aged 18 or over, and who can offer 6 to 8 hours a term, is welcome to apply.

Responsibilities may include allocating budgets, appointing senior staff, making decisions on the school’s policies and direction and essentially ensuring pupils are getting the best education possible.

Training is available for all governors.

School governance is a mutually beneficial role. It both contributes to children’s education but it gives you the opportunity to develop new and existing skills.

For details about becoming a school governor call School Governors’ One-Stop Shop on 0870 241 3883 or mail: info@sgoss.org.uk www.sgoss.org.uk

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Swindon Wide

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Bringing harmony to 2007

Spring daffodil help wanted

The Swindon Scratch Choir is inviting anybody keen to sing - whatever their ability - to a Harmony Singing Day workshop with experienced and wellregarded harmony singing trio Craig, Morgan and Robson.

It takes place at Broad Hinton church hall on Saturday 20 January, 11am to 4.30pm.

The cost is £20 (£10 to choir members) which will include tuiton, drinks and cake. Some concessions are available.

All are welcome to take part - no experience necessary. There’s no need to read music, you learn by repetition. Transport from Swindon could be arranged.

To sign up contact Linda Lee on 875184 or mail: lindarings@hotmail.com

Marie Curie Cancer Care is appealing to all readers to help with their biggest annual fundraising event The Great Daffodil Appeal in February and March.

They urgently want to hear from people in businesses willing to take a box of daffodil pins to sell for donations amongst colleagues and/or customers. Each box contains 50 daffodils which should raise around £25. Every daffodil sold means more care provided by Marie Curie cancer care nurses.

The charity will also be holding public collections in Swindon, Wootton Bassett and Cricklade on March 10 and they desperately need people to help as street sellers.

To find out more about volunteering or helping the appeal, call Clair Cusack or Helen Game on 0117 9247275 or mail: clair.cusack@mariecurie.org.uk

Take your treasures to the museum Each month an archaeological expert is available at Swindon Museum & Art Gallery in Bath Road to look at found objects and to record them for posterity.

Thousands of archaeological objects are brought in by members of the public each year, many unearthed by metal-detectors. Others are discovered by people not even looking, perhaps while on a walk or digging the garden.

Katie Hinds is Wiltshire’s Finds Liaison officer with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Since 1997, the scheme has documented over 100,000 objects, about 4,500 of which are from Wiltshire.

Although it is likely that she will

ask to keep an object for a few weeks to allow time for research, items will be returned to the finder.

She can help identify finds or will consult with a specialist if necessary. She can also advise on conservation and storage and explain the historical importance of the item.

Kirsty Hartsiotis, of Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, said that people are very interested in knowing the history behind what they find and learning more about the

people who lived in their area.

Katie Hinds will be at Swindon Museum from 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm on 31 January, 24 February and 28 March At Fabulous Finds Day during the half-term holiday on Saturday 24 February, Katie Hinds will be joined by other experts to look at archaeological finds.

For details call the museum on 466556. www.swindon.gov.uk/heritage www.finds.org.uk

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Swindon Wide Photographer swaps weddings for wildlife

A Swindon based photographer is the first professional to work for the Born Free Foundation which is famous for its wildlife conservation work in East Africa.

Chris Lowthian from Pembroke to change the attitudes of local Park, who runs Photo Elevations people whose crops are often deand also takes on weddings from stroyed by elephants. What they’re time to time, said he had wanted to trying to do is reduce territorial try his hand at wildlife photogra- conflicts between humans and phy. When he mentioned this at animals by encouraging villagers the Born Free stand at the to put up electric fences to keep Knebworth Festival, they jumped elephants off the crops.”

Staying for two weeks on remote at the opportunity to commission him to record their work in Kenya. BFF research camps off the tourist “Now that ivory poaching is trails in November, Chris visited a largely under control, the focus of tree planting scheme to re-estabBFF has shifted. They are working lish forest destroyed by elephants.

He also recorded Echo, the famous elephant matriach who featured building work at a on TV recently, with her latest offspring Esprit BFF sponsored boarding school for children who live in remote villages. He said, “Born Free Males showing off their assets in Amboseli National Park are battling against the odds, making Chris found elephants grazing outBorn Free Foundation progress for hu- side his tent one morning and, on a exhibition at mans as well as trip to observe female buffalo, a hasty retreat was called for when animals.”

North Swindon Library Of course there two angry males arrived on the See Chris’s images from were plenty of op- scene.

17 to 31 January and from Now bitten, Chris hopes to deportunities to pho14 to 28 February, during tograph wildlife, vote more effort to wildlife photognormal library open times. and on some occa- raphy. Another trip to Kenya is in Information about how sions the animals the pipeline and he is hoping to to help the foundation were a little too visit Vancouver to photograph will also be available. close for comfort. whales and dolphins early this year. www.bornfree.org.uk

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Swindon Wide What’s

A rainbow of colours to brighten up your home this Winter!

Charisma Blinds - the place for quality and value Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

THE SEWING SHOP For all your sewing needs …

Alterations Fabrics Haberdashery Dressmaking Tailoring And much much more …

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Dance

Poetry

Friday 26th, 7.45pm Mission Reposition presenting work by four black choreographers/ dancers, with a variety of cultural styles from jazz, street, Brazilian and martial arts. £5. Swindon Dance

Tuesday 9th Polestar Poetry Evening with poems ranging from the rude to the absurd. Free. Nine Elms Pub, Old

Children & Family Events

Shaw Lane

Exhibitions Tuesday 9th to 12th February

Thursday 4th to Saturday 6th, 2.30pm & 7pm Cinderella. Stage Struck are back with some extra dates for their pantomime. With Ken Jell and Geoff Marsh as the Ugly Sisters, you can expect the usual chaotic comedy, songs and lots of fun in a truly family pantomime with singing, dancing and lots of booing. £8. Arts Centre Tuesday 16th, 7pm The Iron Man. Ted Hughes’ compelling tale of extraordinary friendship is brought thrillingly back to life in a new stage adaptation that blends storytelling, film and junkyard puppetry. The Iron Man walks out of the sea and into the life of a boy named Hogarth. Their alliance has an explosive impact. For over 7s. £8,

family £24. Arts Centre

Shakespeare As You Like It. Illustrations and interpretations of Shakespeare’s locations, plays and sonnets by printmakers from the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers and Society of Wood Engravers.

Free. Arts Centre Tuesday 9th to Tuesday 23rd Swindon Photographic Society exhibition of work. Free. West

Swindon Library.

Below: Red Arrows crossing by Terry Walters

Put on the glad rags for Valentines Age Concern Swindon holds a Black Tie and Tiara ball on Friday 9 February at the De Vere Hotel, West Swindon - a special night to be with friends and loved ones, have fun and raise funds for a local charity.

Tickets are £35 per person or a table for 10 people costs £350, inclusive of a champagne reception, four course dinner, music and dancing, plus an auction, raffle and table draw to ensure Age Concern Swindon can provide vital services for all older people in Swindon.

Call Mel Richards on 692166 for details.

Venues Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466646 Swindon Dance Town Hall Studios. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556

Confirm date, time and price with the venue

21 January 07

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14/12/06, 3:12 pm

To Friday 19th Kathy Danswan Embroidery.

Kathy will be talking about of her work, right, on 6 January

Free.West Swindon Library To March 2007 A Sense of Place Exploring the much loved subject of landscape over the past 100 years, featuring works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. Includes works by Paul Nash, Graham Sutherland and Richard Long. Free. Swindon Museum & Art

Gallery To 30th December Treasure. What makes a treasure?

Find out more in this exhibition of archaeological items from the Swindon area. Free. Swindon

Museum & Art Gallery

27

On in January Film

Music

Wednesday 10th, 7.45pm

Thursday 11th to Saturday 13th, 7.30pm plus Saturday matinee, 2.30pm Ten in a Bar: From the Sublime to the Ridiculous. An array of vocal arrangements from ridiculous music comedies to the sublime sounds of acappella singing and popular ballads. The show will feature the world premier of Schubert’s Trout Quintet sung by garden gnomes and ornamental fairies. £8, tickets from

Offside (PG) Women are banned from watching football with men in Iran, but to what lengths will they go to see a game? This intelligent, critically acclaimed comedy looks at life for fanatical (of football) females in a repressive theocracy. SFS. Arts

881798 or box office. Arts Centre.

Saturday 27th, 8.30pm Built for Comfort. Popular Swindon based rhythm and blues band. £2.

BLAYLOCKS

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See and feel the products before you buy, and get personal advice from our knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Well worth a visit!

Tel/Fax 01793 513069 Phone for directions

Nine Elms Pub, Old Shaw Lane

Centre Wednesday 17th, 7.45pm L’Enfant (PG) A newborn child becomes the merchandise in a sleazy baby trafficking racket in this stark and gritty construction of social realism. In French with English subtitles. SFS. Arts Centre Saturday 20th, 7.45pm

Theatre Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th, 7.30pm Blithe Spirit presented by the Phoenix Players. Noel Coward’s improbable farce is one of the best loved comedies of all time with spirits, poltergeists and the unforgettable Madam Arcati. £6 tickets from

525616. Arts Centre Monday 29th & Tuesday 30th, 7pm

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Nicko & Jo vs Anaconda (15) Before Snakes on a Plane, before Python and before King Cobra, this terrible, terrible movie brought us tales of love, rain forests, mist and killer snakes. Stars Jennifer Lopez and Ice Cube trying to make a documentary in the Amazon. A Bad Film Club screening: polite cinema etiquette can be discarded and jeering and heckling is encouraged!

£5. Arts Centre Friday 26th, 7.45pm The World’s Fastest Indian (12A) Affectionate road movie about Burt Munro, an aging and determined Kiwi, played by Anthony Hopkins, who broke the land speed record in the 1960’s with his customised Indian Scout motorbike. SFS. St Michael’s

Each night 3 local schools stage 3 different plays - each lasting half an hour - allowing the audience to experience the full range of Shakespeare’s output. £7.50, under

08702 422 998 Unit 41 BSS House, Cheney Manor www.anythingstone.co.uk

18s £4.50. Arts Centre

What’s special about Swindon?

The New Economics Foundation is running a survey to find out from Swindon people what they think is ‘distinctive’ about the town.

Hall, Highworth Wednesday 31st, 7pm CRAZY (15) A Big Film Experience night: ticket includes screening, free DVD hire at Little Film Shop plus two coffees at the Palette Cafe. CRAZY is about extraordinary lives of ordinary people in search of love and happiness. £9. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films

are for members only. It is possible to join on any film evening.

Tea Dance Thursdays 4th & 18th 2pm to 4.30pm Memorial Hall, Wootton Basset.

All styles and rhythms All welcome.

21 January 07

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The results will be used in the planning of the new ‘Regent Place’ retail-led development between Regent Street and Commercial Road. The £200m regeneration will comprise a mixed use scheme, including retail, leisure, residential, hotel, and underground car parking, and should be complete by 2010.

It will include new links from the Brunel Shopping Centre.

The questionnaire, available until 8 January, takes about 10 minutes to complete and can be found at: www.swindonlink.com

14/12/06, 11:14 am

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Famed festival goes for 14 Following last May’s terrific thirteenth, plans are now well underway for the 14th Swindon Festival of Literature from 7 to 20 May, writes festival director Matt Holland.

After years of starting on May Day, the festival has changed its launch date to the first spring Bank Holiday of the year to enable more people to attend this dawn spectacular.

Festival frolics will begin high on that beautiful ridge in Lawn Woods, overlooking Swindon, at 5.30am on Monday 7 May, with the everpopular Dawn Chorus, where earlybirds gather for a spring carnival of poetry, song, storytelling, dance, and hot breakfasts, plus a George Alagiah. good deal of mayday morning misPhoto: Richard Haughton chief.

During the subsequent 13 days, formance Poetry Slam competiauthors and speakers appearing tion, a Youth Slam, a Children & at venues in town will include es- Families Weekend in Lydiard Park tablished names not only from the and at Lower Shaw Farm, a Big world of literature but also from Debate on what gives a place culpolitics, philosophy, science, sport, ture, a treat for teachers, plus a entertainment and television. wide range of literary talks, discusThese are likely to include BBC sions, and readings at theatres, news presenter George Alagiah, arts venues, libraries, schools, investigative reporter John Pilger, pubs, parks, farm yards, and even erstwhile politician in an old railway muand cricket writer John seum!

Major, novelist Lionel The festival’s proShriver, ecologist file and reputation Mark Lynas, Indian continue to grow. novelist from Derby Each year it attracts Jasvider Sanghera, a bigger names, a Beautiful South musilarger following, and cal, storytellers Annaan ever more exciting mation, poet Matt exchange of ideas. At Harvey and lots more. every level, it has beOf course, in true come a fantastic celSwindon Festival of ebration for Swindon Literature tradition, it of things well written Lionel Shriver will not just be faand things well said. mous names that make this a People of all ages and backgrounds highspot on Witshire’s cultural have a very good time. They get calendar. During the 13 days of the together, meet authors, join in lively festival, described by John Carey talk, explore new ideas, and even as ‘terrific’, by William Hague as ‘5- have a laugh. It is all very exciting. star’, by Joan Bakewell as ‘delightIt is heartening that our sponful’, by Satish Kumar as ‘wonder- sors see the value of a festival of ful’, and by Shaun B as ‘better than literature in Swindon! sex’, there will also be the now The full programme will be pubnationally-famous Swindon Per- lished in mid-March. For further information or to go on the festival Matt Holland, driving force behind Swindon’s most important mailing list, call 771080 or mail: swindonlitfest@lowershawfarm.co.uk cultural event The 2007 Swindon Festival of Literature has been made possible by funding from the Arts Council of England, South West, whose support represents recognition of what has been achieved in literature development in Swindon. Financial support is also provided by Dominic Winter Book Auctions, Swindon Borough Council and Artswords, the University of Bath in Swindon, Swindon Learning Partnership, and Lower Shaw Farm, as well as valuable support and assistance from First Great Western, the National Union of Teachers, Lower Shaw Farm, the Swindon Advertiser, Holland Handling, The Link , Acorn Press, Borders and Waterstone’s Bookshops, Friends of the Festival, plus a host of other local organisations and individuals.

Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the Stable A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world Mon to Sat 10am to 5pm • Sun 11am to 5pm

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Swindon Wide Big book read to look back at the legacy of slavery

THE NINE ELMS PUB Old Shaw Lane, Nine Elms, West Swindon.

The 200th anniversary of the Slave Trade Abolition Bill will be the focus Tel: 01793 770442. www.thenineelms.com of national attention during 2007. And everybody can reflect on the legacy of the enforced movement of human beings from Africa to the Americas by reading a single book.

Small Island by Andrea Levy has Select from the following: been selected for the country’s larg1. RIB EYE STEAK. Served with home made fat chips, pea's and tomato est ever reading project to be 2. SALMON EN CROUTE. Served with home made fat chips and pea's launched on 11 January. This 3. VEGETARIAN SAUSAGE & MASH. Served with veggie gravy widely acclaimed and award-winBOOK YOUR TABLE NOW !! ning novel describes the arrival of u HOUSE WINE ONLY £8 WITH THIS OFFER 'B Bl black Jamaican immigrants, deen uil ue m All meals are subject to availability. Offer only available tf sB scendants of enslaved Africans, es !!

Sa or c an on Fri & Sat 6.30pm -8.30pm in Jan/Feb/March. starting with an RAF recruit who tin now t 2 om d n e Ja 7th fo l t came to fight for king and country HOME MADE SUNDAY LUNCH only £6.50 n rt' Va ou in 1942.

Last year, Swindon libraries joined an initiative which first began in Bristol, to encourage as many people as possible to read the same book. Around the World in Eighty Days was chosen to mark the bicentenary of Brunel’s birth and the book was loaned over 3,000 times by Swindon libraries Copies of the book will be availand across the South West over able from Swindon’s libraries along 50,000 people took part. This year, with a fully illustrated guide, giving readers in Liverpool, Glasgow and background material about the Hull will be joining in. author, slavery and migration.

Andrea Levy said, “I am very For younger readers, the recexcited that Small Island is the ommendations are Benjamin Zephfocus of this ambitious mass-read- aniah’s Refugee Boy and Mary ing project. I hope everyone who Hoffman’s Amazing Grace.

Details can be found at: takes part really enjoys the experiwww.smallislandread.com ence.” www.devereshawridge.co.uk

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Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ Tel: 01793 861327 Fax: 01793 861325 Email: info@wragbarn.com www.wragbarn.com Wrag Barn are pleased to announce that we now have the licence to perform Civil Weddings, Naming Ceremonies, Renewal of Marriage Vows and Commitment Ceremonies

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

Special Forthcoming Event Burns Night Thursday 25th January 2007 £25.00 per head to include: Piper, 4 course Traditional Scottish Meal with “Haggis, Neapes & Tatties” Scottish Dancing, and a “wee dram”.

Numbers are limited so book your place now

Sunday Carvery Lunch Come and enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carvery Lunch Service commences at 12 noon. Booking in advance is advisable

Business Meetings Offering the ideal environment for totally stress free meetings

Society & Company Golf Days The perfect location for your Golfing “Away Day” 18 - 36 hole packages available and can be tailored to suit your requirements Golf Professional services can be included For further information, available dates and bookings call 01793 861327 www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Billie Elliott benefits from Swindon dancers

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Classes in Toothill, Abbey Meads, Rodbourne and WooTton Bassett Call for other areas

Although the acclaimed long running London production of Billie Elliott is set in the gritty, strike torn North East, two Swindon children are showing off their talents in its chorus line.

Ellen Howard, 12, from Westlea, right, and Francesa Lever, 10, from Abbey Meads joined the cast in early December for six months as members of the all girls’ ballet class in the production - until a boy joins.

Ellen, who attends the famed Sylvia Young performing arts school and lives during the week in London, had auditioned for the show twice before.

“Billie is a lovely show,” said Ellen, who is also a member of Swindon’s Judith Hockaday School of Dance. “I’d seen it four times so I knew all the dances when I went to the audition. The dancers come from all over, but Debbie the main girl is always from up north.

I’m really enjoying it.”

Francesca, below, a member of the Swindon Academy of Dance, is equally excited. “It was nerve Francesca, who attends primary wracking at first but I’m really en- school in Fairford was driven to joying myself. The rest of the cast London by her mum Lydia and are really friendly; I’m loving it.” had to catch up with classwork in Both families have certainly her own time. made a major commitment to their Lydia knows all about the presyoung talents who had to attend sures of stage life. After training in rehearsals several afternoons a Swindon she became a professional week and also on Saturdays for dancer and appeared in Evita and three months beforehand. other West End shows. “I vowed I wouldn’t allow Francesca go on the stage, but she has a passion for dance; it’s what she wants to do.

“When we told her she had been selected for Billie, she quite literally went blue, then white with shock.

But she’s absolutely loving it.”

Ballet for 3 & 4 year olds

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Contact Sarah Watson on 01793 524112 or 07737 677919 before 8pm

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Starts Tuesday 16 January; 2.45pm to 3.15 pm at Peatmoor Community Primary School.

Cost: £2.25 per session payable termly in advance. For details or to book a place call Caroline Bowles at Peatmoor School on 887473.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Yoga for mum and youngsters has so many benefits Dawn Morse of Achieve Success Fitness Consultancy in Swindon and Sally Parkes from Brighton are combining their skills to set up Mother and Baby Yoga workshops in both towns.

Dawn says the benefits of yoga is great for bonding and also exercise.

“Baby yoga is growing in popularity due to its relaxing developmental properties. A baby’s digestive and circulatory systems as well as their physical and emotional behaviour benefit. Yoga has been found to calm colicky and difficult babies and promote peaceful and deep sleep. It has also been reported to help relieve stress in babies who have suffered a difficult birth.”

And because mother and baby spend time together, yoga provides opportunities to bond and enjoy each other’s attention without everyday distractions. Post-natal mums also benefit from the chance to strengthen and tone up.

The first Swindon workshop takes place on Saturday 27 January.

Achieve Success also runs Bendy

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Tots for toddlers aged 2 to 4 years and Bendy Bananas for children aged from 4 to 10 in West and North Swindon.

Dawn Morse and Sally Parkes have over ten years of yoga teaching experience between them and hold degrees in Sports and Exercise Science. Both are trained in pre and post-natal yoga and Dawn is also trained in adult and baby massage.

For details of the workshop and Dawn’s Pilates and adult yoga classes, see the advert below or call 700659 or 07887 535766. www.achievesuccess.uk.com www.kai-pt.com

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Toothill kids ready to battle for the future Ashes

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These are just some of the symptoms resulting from a toxic bowel Find out for yourself the benefits of Colonic Hydrotherapy For details call Carol Lindsey, Qualified Nurse, on 01793 727323 e: carol@askimhydrotherapyclinic.co.uk

Watch out Freddie, Pieterson and the struggling England squad, sixty children aged 10 and 11 at Toothill Primary School reckon they can do a better job, thanks to Swindon based energy company nPower.

With help from an nPower tuAlison Cole, nPower’s corporate There was also a session about toring team the children spent a communications director ex- the proposed wind turbine at day in early December taking part plained, “energy is at the heart of Windmill Hill Business Park turin a ‘Energy to live, energy to learn’ what we are and what we do. On a bine two miles from the school. education programme which in- Power Day, children are eager to The project’s development mancluded mind and body power ac- get involved and learn. It’s a way ager, Pete Forest said, “at npower tivities and team work challenges. the company can make a positive we are very excited about this Children learnt about physical contribution to the government’s project and it offers children a great fitness, good health and positive strategy of encouraging the scien- opportunity to learn about renewthinking. In relation to natural tists of the future, by demonstrat- able energy with a local focus, as power they looked at climate ing that science is fun - in this case well as helping to place Swindon change and alternative forms of through the medium of cricket.” firmly on the renewable energy energy. map.”

South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove and Zoe Samwell square up to the bowling of Joseph Moura and fielding of nPower teacher Anne Snelgrove sat in on the sessions and Liz Clutton was impressed by the delivery. “It’s great how the education team combined sport and science in the children’s learning. The children were really motivated and enjoyed the whole interactive experience.

Linking the project with cricket and the Ashes tour was an inspired way of making it relevant and topical.”

www.askimhydrotherapyclinic.co.uk www.my-lifegroup.co.uk

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Powering on The boys in Greendown School’s junior rugby team are undefeated since they started at the school in 2005 and won the Swindon 12-a-side tournament in early November.

Coach Alex Buchalik said team captain David Ruddle had provided inspiring leadership, Ryan Hammersley tackles were outstanding and Aiden Stevens gave the team forward strength.

Healthy winner Christmas came early for five year old Adam Montgomery at Shaw Ridge Primary School when he won a new bike after entering a healthy living word-search run by Cygnet catering services.

Cygnet area manager Sharon Vallence, right with Adam, said children from 55 schools in Swindon, Aylesbury and Milton Keynes had entered the competition.

14/12/06, 11:21 am

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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www.slimming-world.com

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Building on

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Tel: 01793 423380

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Readers will recall Link articles in 2006 featuring the McGiffin family in North Swindon who hosted two children from Belarus affected by the radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. Virginia McGiffin

has set up a Swindon branch of Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline and here she describes her trip to Belarus in November to visit Kristina in her village of Ozarichi, only 20 miles from the radiation exclusion zone.

I arrived near midnight, suitcase heavy with gifts for children from their sponsors in Swindon.

The temperature was minus ten and very frosty, many homes have no heating. Those that have are heated by pipes running from central village boilers. But as the temperature had not been below -4 on

four consecutive days, the president had not allowed them to be turned on for the winter.

My visit took me to special needs schools, orphanages, a hospital, schools, kindergarden, but most of all the houses of children I have hosted in my own home.

It was very emotional to see the

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Belarus links provide a one month respite extreme poverty the children holiday for children suffering are in. I have been told but from the effects of radiation. nothing prepares you for seeDoctors report the respite ing it for yourself. Few rural greatly boosts their immune homes have running water, systems 90 per cent of parents are Fourteen children will visit alcoholic and many children Swindon in February and 26 do not eat all day because will be coming over in Authe parents have no money. gust. If you feel you could be Families live in what we suitable to host two children would class a shed of one or in August or next December, two rooms, no carpets, including Christmas, please maybe a couple of beds they contact me. all share, no toys, and little CCLL relies entirely on food. But they welcome you fundraising. Individuals and with open arms, the people companies have held some are so friendly and they are Sasha, Kristina and Nastya who stayed with the fantastic events which we are very grateful to us for offerMcGiffin family last year thankful for. Over £10,000 has ing respite holidays for their health will be assessed whilst here. been raised since the Swindon children.

Many items were purchased for branch was launched in June 2006.

When I visited Kristina at home, For details of sponsorship call her drunken father had fought with Kristina and her family to improve her mother so he had left again like their quality of life a little, includ- Gin McGiffin on 728251 or 0775 he does every so often. Kristina ing primarily food and warm bed- 3662891 or mail: ginmcgiffin and her sister Sasha were wearing ding. Whilst there I purchased @aol.com If you would like to sponsor a clothes we had sent home with winter boots for both girls to last child or help fund the airfare for a them, photos of their holidays in their harsh -40 winter.

I will never forget the children’s visit, cheques should be made paySwindon decorated their crumbling dwelling and her mother and faces as they ran to me, tears in able to ‘CCLL’ and posted to our grandmother expressed how lucky their eyes and how they clung to new address: 2 Phoenix Gardens, their children were to come to Eng- me like they never wanted to let Oakhurst, Swindon SN25 2LQ. Paypal payments can be made land to breathe clean air and eat go, it’s a trip that has changed my life forever. We had so much fun via: http://swindon.ccll.org.uk uncontaminated food.

Doctors from the Minsk cancer over the five days. In a strange • More photos of Virginia’s visit to hospital who operated on Kristina way Ozarichi is a beautiful peace- Belarus can be seen at confirmed it was a malignant ful village, the silence broken only www.swindonlink.com melanoma, but said the cancer is by the sound of the free roaming gone and no follow up treatment is cows, chickens, dogs or cats. But it is blighted by radiation and cruel planned.

Kristina will return to England poverty.

The children believe me now in February, this time to stay with her sponsors in Abbey Meads, the when I say I’ll see you again, it will flight being paid for by the kind never be goodbye.

Chernobyl Children’s Life Line donations of Swindon people. Her

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14/12/06, 11:26 am

WHO NEEDS WATER? Waterless valeting and detailers 24 HOUR / 7 DAY TRADITIONAL CAR CLEANING SYSTEMS WASTE WATER! Help conserve water with Swindon’s premier waterless valeting and detailing company.

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Timber removed the traditional way at Lydiard During December four heavy horses were employed to remove felled wood as part of the extensive park management programme.

Two Belgian bred Ardennes called Jeton and Yser, driven by Frankie Woodgate of Natural Traction, pulled out felled trunks and branches, which were removed by a lightweight power crane on the back of a trailer pulled by Clydesdales, Clyde and Drum, managed by John Bunce of Pine Ridge Timber Horses.

The horses were brought in to minimise pollution and damage to standing trees and coppices, as well as reducing compaction and ruts to the woodland floor.

Taking in the historic scenery. Jeton, with Lydiard House in the background

Have you got a couch potato for a pet?

The festive season is over and it’s not only humans who will be concerned about weight control for their New Year’s resolution, writes Linzi Matthews at Thameswood Animal Hospital.

Obesity in ourselves hit the headlines in 2006, but these same problems can affect pets. The causes are similar: the accumulation of excess energy stored as fat. In other words, your pet is receiving more calories than it needs for body maintenance and energy expenditure (exercise).

We think we are feeding our pets only a small quantity of food but forget the odd biscuit, peppermint cream or the drink of milky tea at bedtime. And sometimes we also forget that, in comparison to humans, a biscuit a day is the equivalent to a packet for him.

So...what can you do? Thameswood Small Animal Hospital is offering free weight assessments for your pet during January. Our team of qualified nurses will weigh your pet, assess his present weight, agree a target weight and discuss diet, nutrition and exercise and send you home with a plan to help your pet regain his waistline with two weekly follow up appointments to assess his progress.

So, does your pet spend more time lounging on the sofa than you?

Kick him or her off the couch and book an appointment on 526780 with our nurse.

www.paw-pals.co.uk

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Pets pushed out when families break down The ‘a dog is for life’ message seems to have made an impact, but still, the numbers at animal rescue centres will be up after Christmas, predicts John Warwick of Swindon and District Animal Haven.

Although sanctuaries and res- care enough to want them to be cue centres do take in victims of rehomed.

He advises that people should animal cruelty, many more arrive because there has been a change in get help if they are finding their the household, such as death, di- animal’s behaviour difficult. “If people talk to trainers and ask for vorce or a house move.

“We see a lot more in January help they’d enjoy their animal because people stay together for more. Make this year one to enjoy Christmas and then split up in the your pets. If you can train your new year,” said John. “Sometimes dog so that taking them out for a the house gets sold and people walk is easy, then it’s a joy to go move into rented accommodation out and do it. You’ll have a better relationship and you’ll also be that doesn’t allow pets.”

John has been running the sanc- healthier.”

The animal haven always has tuary at Ballards Ash in Wootton Bassett for 10 years. Fortunately, dogs, cats and small animals lookthe number of cruelty cases has ing for new homes. Call 07990 decreased and on the whole ani- 868887. mals are brought in by owners who www.sdah.co.uk

Vets on the road to visit pets Purton Vets have decided to make it easy to see a vet when a pet needs to.

On certain days they’ll come to you completely free of charge, but only in certain target areas.

On Tuesdays they cover the SN25 postcode area, Wednesdays they will be in the SN4 area and Thursdays SN26. If you need a visit on a day that they are not in your area then there will be a charge of £15 inclusive of VAT. Practice manager Vicky Cross dog into the car and to the surgery. said the visiting vet will take the “The service is for all routine stress out of having a pet seen. treatments and is free on the zone “Vet2Pet is ideal for those who days. The service is not available find it difficult to get to the sur- on Mondays and Fridays but there gery, perhaps the elderly who are are five clinic sessions at the Purton unable to drive or who have diffi- and Cricklade surgeries and emerculties in capturing a cat and gency visits are available.” putting it in a basket. Mothers with She added that all treatments young children can also find it hard are charged at exactly the same to manoeuvre a toddler, baby car- prices as at the surgery - there are rier and the cat basket or a lively no hidden extras.

Grooming salons are not just for poodles!

• • • • • • • •

Trained at London Grooming Academy Bathing and clipping Scissoring Attention to ears and nails Hand stripping All breeds catered for Patience and kindness guaranteed West Swindon based

VET2PET VISITS ARE AVAILALBLE FREE IN SN4, SN25 & SN26 POSTAL AREAS

Tel: 01793 771869 77 High Street, Purton, Swindon Email: vets@purtonvets.co.uk www.purtonvets.co.uk Terms and conditions apply. Contact us for further details.

Collection/delivery available, or drop your dog off in the morning and pick up in the evening 74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

Telephone: 01793 881572 Mobile: 07984 564493

Call Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633

PETS AT HOME

Carole’s

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

Pets At Home could be your answer Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 01793 873062 or 07710 543197 email: sm4hannahlightfoot@talktalk.net

PET SITTING SERVICE 14 Waterdown Close Taw Hill, Swindon

01793 702098 Mob: 07904 734 758 www.carolespetsitting.co.uk Taking the worry out of leaving your pets whilst you’re away FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

THAMESWOOD SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL 24hr Emergency Service.

Tel: 01793 526780

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Mon - Fri: 9am - 6.30pm Sat: 9am - 11am Consultation by appointment Monday - Friday: 9am - 10am; 2pm - 3pm; 5pm - 6.30pm Saturday: 9am - 11am

THAMESWOOD

www.thameswoodvets.co.uk www.cannons.co.uk

21 January 07

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14/12/06, 11:27 am

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

AMETHYST HAIR & BEAUTY Hazel and Gemma welcome all new clients Cut & blow dry Colours • Foils/tints Hair extensions Purelogical anti-ageing facials Fake Bake tanning

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DIBLE & ROY (MARLBOROUGH) HOUSE FURNISHERS

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Open Bank Holiday Monday 1/1/07, 10am - 4pm 14 - 16 The Parade, Marlborough, Wilts 01672 513491 Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm. Closed Saturday & Sunday

21 January 07

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Lydiard now has a bed fit for a visiting monarch The State Bed is back on display at Lydiard House, completely refurbished in silk damask fabric with traditional trimmings appropriate to the mid-18th Century.

The gorgeous green and gold colour, which was known as drab, was very fashionable at the time and can be seen in the portrait of society beauty, Barbara Villiers - mistress to King Charles II, which hangs in the State Bedroom.

The bed is of the period but is not originally from Lydiard House. During the 1940s the Angela Burgin, historic upholsterer, left, and NADFAS original bed was project coordinator Mora Abel look at the team’s handiwork sold off at the auction of the house contents. Un- Albert Museum but sponsorship fortunately it ended up on a farm through private funding has only bonfire ten years later. been recently available.

The refurbishment of the bed Twenty two NADFAS volunhas been a project over the last teers are completing two beautiful four years for members of the decorative runners to be displayed Kennet branch of the National on the bed. The design for the inAssociation of Decorative and Fine tricate embroidery has been inArts Societies (NADFAS). The de- spired by the animals, birds and sign was actually sketched out in figures to be found in the 17th 1974 by furnishing historian Peter Century painted window in the Thornton at London’s Victoria & adjacent dressing room.

Still time to sign up for Peru trip Regulars from Swindon Twin Peaks walking group, together with new friends, are heading for the hills in Peru to walk the Inca Trail.

Amanda Martin from West of the regular Twin Peaks training Swindon explained that during one sessions, the conversation turned to taking an overseas trip. There so much enthusiasm that she Don’t catch the chill was agreed to organise it. “A lot of us Age Concern Swindon is urging have done the Moonwalk in Lonpeople to shop around for their don and wanted to do something a energy provider so they’re not left bit different.” in the cold.

Anyone is welcome to join the For example £114 can be saved trip planned for June 2008, raising if you switch from British Gas to money for charity if they wish, Age Concern Energy Services in though this is not a requirement. association with Powergen. It is The cost will be about £1,500. designed to meet the needs and “It’s very exciting and there’s budgets of older people and means already been a lot of interest,” said that they can offer you a great deal Amanda. “The group will acclion your energy all year round as matise with some sightseeing in well as other offers the first few days before tackling For information of how Age Con- the 49 kilometres Inca Trail.” cern can help you see out the winShe added that it will be a chalter call 692166. lenging trek as it is at altitude, but there will be alternative arrangeAdded child security ments for those who don’t want to A card which gives an added level take part in the trek. of security when children are colSo far, 25 people have expressed lected from school and provides a an interest but there is still time to way of identifying a lost child on a get involved. A meeting will be school trip is now available in Swin- held in January to finalise details. don. Details can be found at For more information call Amanda www.childcollectioncard.homestead.com on 827672.

14/12/06, 11:28 am

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Get muddy and have fun tackling the nation’s biggest killer - in Lydiard Park Swindon Town midfielder, Paul Evans, joined forces with the British Heart Foundation in early December to launch the brand new Hearts First Lydiard Park Jog which takes place on Sunday 25 February.

Statistics show that man, woman or child, you are more likely to die from heart and circulatory disease than any other serious illness, including cancer. It is the nation’s biggest killer and accounts for 240,000 deaths a year - 4 in 10 deaths.

Speaking at the launch at the County Ground, Paul Evans said, “people of all ages can be victims of heart disease. By keeping fit and leading a healthy lifestyle you can protect your heart, so why not join hundreds of people at this jog.

“You don’t have to be super fit to take part. Encourage your family, friends and colleagues at work to enter a team or simply challenge yourself to complete either a 3, 6 or

9 kilometre route.”

The event starts at 11am and will take you through the recently restored grounds of the park. Be prepared to tackle grass, mud and gravel as you pass through the woodland and beside the lake.

The event will be crucial for raising much needed funds to tackle heart disease in Wiltshire and is open to participants of all ages, but under-16s must be accompanied by an adult and gain their parents consent on their registration form.

Advance registration costs £8. Registration is possible on the day from 9.30am, and costs £10.

To register call 0800 652 5818 or mail: swestevents@bhf.org.uk www.bhf.org.uk/events

Have a clearout for BHF Nearly two in three women in the UK have bought clothes but never worn them, according to a British Heart Foundation Shops survey.

With more than a third of people questioned estimating that the value of their wardrobe is over £1,500 and with 29 per cent believing that they are unlikely to wear many items again, there is a staggering amount in the nation’s cupboard which could be donated to BHF Shops.

They also take in shoes, accessories, books, CDs, DVDs, videos, toys and bric-a-brac. The Swindon BHF Shop is at 44 Havelock Street, or call 0870 120 4141 to arrange free collection.

Valentine’s gifts to make hearts sing If the over commercialisation of Valentine’s Day breaks your heart, the BHF has a solution to make it a day to remember for your loved one and for heart patients across the UK. The charity has a range of gift ideas for all pockets, which will also help raise money to fund Heart Nurses and the Heart Information Line.

They are aiming to raise £1 millon from this year’s Valentine Appeal.

For details see www.BHF.org.uk/valentine

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS LTD ❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

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

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GARDEN MAGIC RHS Exhibitor 2005 RHS Silver Medal 2006 Professional design & landscaping service Hand drawn imaginative and individual designs.

Plant plans for colour and interest

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL JILL BLACKWOOD ON: 01793 322880 MOBILE: 07951014119. e-mail gillian.blackwood@ntlworld.com

Quality products & workmanship

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A W GARDEN SERVICES

CUTTING EDGE

Every client & every garden is different.

To fulfil the potential of your garden we offer a planning & design service, from a Gold Medal winning designer, that is individually tailored to suit your taste & home.

We offer a complete or phased project to suit budget and circumstances as well as planting plans, beds and border designs.

General garden maintenance & landscaping also undertaken.

Fully public liability insurance.

Tel/Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733 www.awgardenservices.co.uk

LANDSERVE Garden Maintenance & Landscaping Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting & Pruning No Job Too Small. All works insured

Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation

on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

Highworth Landscapes

Landscape Gardener Patios, fencing & turf laying Mobile: 07968 861396 Home: 01793 872843 jamesdigg@aol.com

Chelworth Landscapes Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing and gates Closeboard, trellis, panels, picket, chainlink, security etc

• Landscaping Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029 www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk

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Electrical & Building Services Est. 1977 Patios • Paths Block paving • Drives All walling inc. natural stone Lighting • Decking Fencing • Pergolas All types of water features Tel/fax 01793 764362 Mobile: 07860 762339 www.lindenfencing.co.uk

21 January 07

www.acerpaving.co.uk

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14/12/06, 3:20 pm

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free

Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION www.handymanathome.co.uk

Awards for productive mortgage broker West Swindon’s longest established mortgage broker has beaten hundreds of other companies to received two national awards in 2006.

Mike Rees of Mansfield Begbie Associates, has been based in Swindon for almost 20 years, offering advice on mortgages and related products such as mortgage protection and life cover through Legal and General.

Last year at the Legal & General Regional Business Forum, Mansfield Begbie were named Regional Winner for the Highest Mike, left, with Richard Hammond Growth in the year from 2004 to (before his high speed accident) 2005. This was a tremendous achievement for a business which insurance regulations have become has only three advisors. Mike’s fel- ever more stringent. Mike said, “I low director Ian Winchester is based couldn’t have achieved the growth in Luton with mortgage advisor and performance in the company Graham Roberts who covers the without the large numbers of peoNorth London area. ple in Swindon who have been usThere was more recognition at ing my services for all these years.” the Legal & General Mortgage Club “We pride ourselves on close liawards at London’s Savoy Hotel. aison with the client before, during There was competition from sev- and after the mortgage process and eral hundred companies associated this is reflected in the many cuswith Legal and General, one of the tomers who have returned to us UK’s largest insurance companies. over the last 19 years.”

Top Gear’s Richard Hammond People looking to buy a place in presented the award for Most Pro- the sun often consider a re-mortductive Life Sales Firm – Legal & gage as a way to release capital.

General Mortgage Club.

Mansfield Begbie have seen a Mike and Ian are very proud to steady increase in business from have received the awards, particu- holiday home buyers and can help larly at a time when mortgage and in a variety of ways.

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Swindon Youth Service is organising elections to the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) in February and young people who have an interest in local affairs and the needs of the younger generation are being asked to come forward.

An election preparation day is many young people as possible being held on Saturday 13 January can cast a vote. The result will be where young people will take part announced on 10 February. in a series of workshops on citizenThe UKYP is coordinated by a ship, democracy, representation charity which has been developand the idea behind UKYP. ing youth representation activities If a participant is interested in across the nation. Details can be becoming an MYP they will be found at www.ukyp.org nominated for election and a balTo take part in the preparation lot will be organised across schools, workshop call Sarah Hayes on colleges, youth clubs and volun- 463712 or mail: shayes@swindon tary youth organisations so that as .gov.uk

ATC recruiting

LIGHTING BUG FACTORY WAREHOUSE IN WEST SWINDON Probably Wiltshire’s widest selection of affordable lighting

SALE NOW ON

The West Swindon Air Cadet unit holds a recruitment evening on Friday 5 January, 7.30pm in the Sunshine Rooms at Westlea School.

Boys and girls of 13 and over are welcome to attend and meet cadets and staff, and learn about ATC activities through videos, displays and one-to-one discussions. The cadets will also give a short drill display at the beginning of the evening.

Parents, relatives and friends are all welcome and light refreshments will be available.

If you are unable to attend, contact detachment commander Warrent Officer Helene Woodman: helenewoodham@fsmail.net

Tidy up for Freshbrook and Grange Park • Affordable prices • Unusual gifts • Ceiling fans • Modern & traditional lighting • Shades made in your own fabric • Special requirements and alterations catered for

Units 16/17 Westmead Ind. Est., Westlea, Swindon Tel: (01793) 616018 Open: Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm Bank Holidays 10am-4pm

21 January 07

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Around 50 Greendown School pupils took time out from parties on the last day of term to join Swindon Council staff and the police on a Safe & Clean Day, helping to clear litter and graffiti, and generally make the area look nicer.

Last May a team of youngsters with help from youth worker Dave Davison tackled the untidyness afflicting the area around their school.

14/12/06, 11:30 am

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Location Location Location - in Swindon Ask people what the most stressful situations in life are and the majority will include ‘moving house’ in their list.

Busy and hectic lifestyles nowadays only add to the stress of moving home, so any support with the process could be a help.

Julia Falaki from Peatmoor, right, has set up Ideal Home Search to take on the pressures of finding the right place for prospective buyers. “Having spent many years as a working mum where every moment was taken up, I know the difficulties people experience trying to find the time to locate a new home to buy, or make property investment decisions,” she said.

“I was also prompted by my parent’s own house search, having spent many hours trawling the internet with them, and hearing their own horror stories of looking for their ideal property.”

Julia won’t be able to get you on television, but then all her attention is focussed on the client’s needs and not the TV audience.

She works with clients to identify their property requirements, including factors like distance to workplace or school, whether the house must have a conservatory

or double glazing, to any other features they require or prefer.

“How often have you visited properties which looked good in the brochure, only to find that the location was not right, or the garden was too small, or the inside of the house was gloomy?” said Julia.

“Depending on the level of support you require, I will view properties and their locations and provide further information and feedback, thus offering a personalised service and saving valuable time.”

For details and a free consultation, contact Julia on 638090 or mail: jfalaki@ideal-home-search.co.uk

ABBEY MOVE ● Quality removals & storage ● Single items to full house moves ● Complete packing service offered ● Sales & supplies of packaging materials ● Piano removal specialists ● A free quotation ● A fully insured service

0800 019 5037 www.abbeymove.co.uk

IDEAL HOME SEARCH The bespoke property search service IDEAL HOME SEARCH looks for properties that match YOUR requirements.

We work with you on an individual basis: ☛ Search estate agent’s pages on the internet, including online agencies ☛ Liaise with estate agents and visit properties on your behalf ☛ Provide a portfolio of properties which match your requirements ☛ Supply information on the location and local amenities ☛ Provide regular progress reports Contact us on 01793 638090 or 07786 265380 for YOUR FREE CONSULTATION Email: jfalaki@ideal-home-search.co.uk www.ideal-home-search.co.uk

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Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd Providing mortgage services for the community since 1987

FIRST CLASS REMOVAL & STORAGE SOLUTIONS

21 January 07

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COULD YOU PAY LESS FOR YOUR MORTGAGE IN 2007?

The earlier you carry out a review, the sooner you might save We may be able to find you a lower interest rate.

You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage.

Whether you’re planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your property, with over 19 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service.

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

However, no completion no fee.

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

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

Swindon

772779

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

14/12/06, 11:31 am

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

History encapsulated under the new Hreod as dome over the top gets a name Two large time capsules have been buried beneath the large central atrium of the new Hreod school building which will open in April.

Students and teachers at the spe- good about curiosity and learning. cialist college took part in a special Undoubtedly Da Vinci was the ceremony in mid-November with most creative and enquiring of men representatives of builders Laing and a model for exploration and O’Rourke. Archaeologists at some discovery.”

A brass plaque close to the timepoint in the future will discover school books and DVDs together capsule puts the site into its hiswith the school uniform, a pupil torical context. Part of it reads: ‘The ancient cobbled-stone planner, prospectus and many other items representing the near this plaque, excavated in March 2005, formed the stableschool’s forty year history.

Among the students was Rhian- yard of a 19th Century farmnon Elliott, 13, whose aunt had house, North Leaze.’

This farm stood on the northlaid a time capsule beneath the present Hreod Parkway building eastern edge of this site near the Hayley Clifford and George Bush bury the capsule watched by staff and builders when it was being built in the 1970s. stream recorded in an Anglo-Saxon Rhiannon said, “it’s exciting be- Charter (BCS 788, 12th) of AD943 ing part of this new beginning, just as the ‘Hreodburnan.’

The name derives from the Old as my aunt was all those years ago.

We’re all looking forward to find- English ‘reed stream’ linked to ing out what is inside the old time what is recorded in the Domesday capsule when the building is Book of AD 1086 as ‘Redbourne’ (modern day Rodbourne). knocked down.”

HEATING Ltd The central atrium of the new Be engraved at Hreod building is now covered by a giant ❖ Eco Combi & seven radiators £2,799 + vat translucent roof, below. This has Become part of the history of the ❖ Eco Combi replacement boiler £1,599 + vat been named the Da Vinci Dome new Hreod by sponsoring an enafter the 16th century artist, scien- graved pavior laid in the atrium ❖ Boiler replacement only £1,300 + vat tist, technologist, architect and a under the dome. Contact the pageant maker Leonardo Da Vinci school by the end of January. See All other plumbing & heating work undertaken in recognition of the school’s spe- www.hreod.co.uk for details cialist status in Tel: 01793 772702 Science and Maths Mobile: 07770 555030 with Computing.

Headteacher 176726 * Prices above subject to survey Andrew Fleet said he hopes the dome will be inspirational. “We wanted a special that incorCURTAINS TO SATISFY EVERY REQUIREMENT name porated all that is

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2 mtr x 2 mtr from £99 The Honda ladies group came into school to show children different aspects of Japanese culture and helped them find out how to tie a kimono correctly

FREE PARKING OUTSIDE THE SHOWROOM at 252 CRICKLADE RD or call Tracey or Amanda on 01793 611051

21 January 07

Discovering Swindon at new school Youngsters at Red Oaks Primary School in North Swindon enjoyed a week in late Novemer looking at Swindon: Our Town as part of their first term’s whole school project.

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There were visits from members of the town’s Polish, Turkish and Japanese communities and classes went on trips to St Mary’s Church, Lydiard Park and the Sikh temple in Gorse Hill.

Key Stage 1 and 2 children worked with artist Sara Drake on creating a 3D papier mache map of Swindon and also one of Priory Vale using The Link magazine’s paper map. This will be featured next month.

14/12/06, 3:27 pm

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Andy Rhodes

KUDOS FENCING

Changing rooms inside Creating rooms outside

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Inside Kitchen and bathroom fitting including tiling and flooring, loft conversions Outside Extensions, patios, decking and fencing Portfolio of work and recommendations available Please call for free quote 01793 826112 077930 25459 andy_rhodes28@hotmail.com

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The biggest problem of buying a carpet or floor covering is knowing what it will look like when laid. Home Choose Carpets has the answer. One simple telephone call and you get all the advantages of a quality carpet showroom - plus extra savings - in the comfort of your own home!

Call 01793 526335 www.petergalbraith.co.uk

With over 5,000 carpet, vinyl and laminate samples carried in the mobile showroom, Home Choose Carpets offers professional advice, carpets from all the top manufacturers with guarantees, and a super fast personal service.

Appointments can be arranged to suit you: day, evening or weekend.You're not rushed to make a decision, but it will come easier when you see the flooring in place where it will be used, against the decor of a room and your other furnishings.

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

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Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 0AS

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Estimating is free. Luxury underlay, all accessories and installation are included in the price! There are no hidden extras - and no obligation.

Call Trevor Salter on

01793 812995 or 07860 882588 or email: info@carpetsswindon.co.uk

www.carpetsswindon.co.uk

14/12/06, 4:52 pm

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A2 Z

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D & M ENTERPRISES For all your property & garden maintenance

by

Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

❖ Loft conversions ❖ Fitted kitchens & bedrooms ❖ Doors & windows ❖ Stairs ❖ All other carpentry

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace ❍ Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits ❍ Garden lights & sockets, pond pumps ❍ Wiring for log cabins, garages, sheds ❍ Electrical inspection & testing ❍ Portable appliance testing ❍ Air conditioning supplied & installed ❍ Trustmark & Part P registered Call James Nicholls on 07974 711962 01793 812303 Amalia Electrical Services Ltd

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

we are ... ‘the men to do it ..’

All types of fencing, decking, pagodas Painting & decorating Laminate flooring Ceramic & floor tiles Kitchen fitting Secondary fit carpentry Plaster boarding, plastering & rendering Plumbing, bathroom suites

Give us a try. For a free no obligation quote, call Jeff on 07747 606344 or Vito on 07812 180535 24 hour ansaphone 01793 700796

LEE ORTON PLUMBING & HEATING ❍ Central heating ❍ Boiler replacements ❍ Bathroom installations ❍ Tiling ❍ Power showers No job too small Tel: 01793 722152 Mobile: 07887 541444

MILESTONE

Building Services

GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking, landscape gardening Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring No job too small • Free estimates Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Then call

TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

BRUNEL ELECTRICAL Professional electrical services for domestic and small business customers PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES From dripping taps to complete bathroom installations 24/365 emergency service No call out charge No job too small • Fully insured Call Chris Bray on 01793 702171 Mob: 07951 219908 e: aps-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

21 January 07

44

PLUMBING & DIY KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAMINATE FLOORING HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241

Brunel Electrical is a local business based in Swindon. We provide electrical services across a wide range of customers from a single home owner to small business outlets and offices ★ Free quotes ★ No call out charge ★ Fully insured ★ Extensions ★ Showers ★ Garden lighting ★ Test & inspection ★ Fault finding ★ Consumer unit replacement ★ Garden Air conditioning ★ Heating ★ Under floor heating ★ Fully Part P compliant

TEL: 01793 422880 07785 988557 07725 804738 Or browse our website and e-mail us on www.brunel-electrical .co.uk sales@brunel-electrical.co.uk

14/12/06, 3:30 pm

45

PREMIER BUILDERS

TREVOR WYSE

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Painter & Decorator

All work approved & guaranteed

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists

REPLACEMENT uPVC

Also tiling, coving, dado rails.

• Facsia Soffits Guttering Cladding • All work carried out on tower scaffolding • Bargeboards • All sizes of properties

Wallpaper specialist

01793 422973

For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

07834 708627

• 10 year warranty • Over 10 years experience www. detailfacsias.co.uk

‘my experience your pleasure’

Professional & Reliable

• Free quotations

Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Your caring family business Home Painting & decorating Kitchens & bathrooms Carpentry Floor and wall tiling Laminate floors Plastering, Dry lining Roofing, Rendering Fascias & guttering

Garden Fencing & walls Patios & paving Turfing & grass seeding Landscaping & design Garden maintenance Ponds & pergolas

For a FREE quote with no obligation Telephone: 01793 703233 Mobile: 07760 193890

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 078899 21570

Inspire

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

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

No obligation, pressure or gimmicks!

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

No job too small - All work fully insured

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories Free quotatio ns

FENSA Registered Company

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

SD BUILDING C SOLUTIONS ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

Loft conversions Extensions Home alterations Kitchen installations Carpentry Wooden/PVCu windows & doors fitted Quality workmanship Competitive prices

For details call Steve on 07793 932481 or 01793 848405

The Fitting Crew UPVC, Facia, Cladding, Soffits, Guttering We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey

Local family business 17 yrs experience Repairs & cleaning No job too small All work guaranteed

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks

Call: 01793 633336 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671

General property maintenance Conservatory bases Extensions/porches Garden walls/patios Interior & exterior decoration Tiling - walls & floors Garage conversions Free no obligation quotation Other works arranged Insurance work undertaken • No job too small

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419

A local reliable & friendly service 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

Complete Bathroom Solutions

by House Medic 01793 770088 07710 150644

To arrange your FREE survey, call Richard on 01793 725155 or mobile: 07760 143221

45

Specialising in smaller works • • • • • • • • • •

Doctor Glass

NO MORE PAINTING, MAINTENANCE FREE, DEAL DIRECT

21 January 07

L J WILSON BRICKWORK

14/12/06, 3:32 pm

46

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

RS

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Tiling Walls & Floors Bathroom and kitchen installations

❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

or 07900 835116

HEATING & PLUMBING Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

ain ter

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

&D eco ra

FREE ESTIMATES

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DECORATOR

DOUBLE GLAZING

James O’Sullivan

WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing & Plastering

HEATING & PLUMBING

M.P.S.

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

GAS ASSOCIATED SERVICES

ID EP

HEATING & PLUMBING

Heating & Plumbing For Gas Central Heating Boiler Service & Replacement, Bathroom Suites & Showers

Call 01793 522579 Mobile: 07816 906437 Email: matt@mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk

Steve George for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

ALL KITCHENS FITTED (Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture

46

Free no obligation quotes

HEATING & PLUMBING

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

296 January Repair & Improve

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted

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

E-mail: towerplumbheat@aol.com

30 years experienced tradesman

Roofing & building maintenance

J&R Carpentry Services

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

PR

Call Andy: 01793 729354

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

tor

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

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

UPVC windows & doors

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

CARPENTRY

APPROVED

Established 22 years

20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Reg: 203455

INSTALLED OR REPAIRED

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

01793 611398 07968 757860

❍ All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed ❍ Warm air unit service, repair & installation ❍ Landlord/moving house safety inspections ❍ Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken ❍ Central heating systems flushed (powerflush) ❍ Hot water systems descaled ❍ Quote on request ❍ 24 hour call out ❍ Natural gas & LPG qualified Reg: 202015 ❍ British Gas trained

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

Brian Jones Plastering Services

Select Plumbing Services

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

External rendering Plastering two coat Re-skimming Dry lining Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

15/12/06, 11:21 am

Repairs, maintenance or new installation at a competitive price

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

• No job is too small.

• No callout charge.

• Free estimates.

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

47

CARPENTRY

CARPENTRY

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

J S Property Services

PAINTING AND DECORATING

Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance Office: 01793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

ELECTRICIAN

DECORATOR

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions Doors & windows All carpentry work Stairs Shop fitting specialist

Independent decorator specialising in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Domestic and small commercial Insurance work undertaken Full Public Liability insurance Free no obligation quotation References available

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

SAFE & SHAW

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

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

Arc Electrical Services Ltd

DECORATOR INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTER & DECORATOR QUALITY WORKMANSHIP 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE NO JOB TOO SMALL For free quote call

Paul Comer on 321981 or 07775 840236

FLOORING

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

01793 872054 0770 480 1959

MASTERFITTER

arcelectrics@aol.com

National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers

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

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

24hr call out facility

MOBILE: 07769 883717 TEL: 01793 876029

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

• Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

HEATING & PLUMBING

HOME MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

Quality Plumbing & Heating

G R SERVICES

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES

HEATING & PLUMBING

• • • •

Boiler Changes Cylinder Changes Power Flushes Full Central Heating & System Upgrades • Full Bathroom Systems with Power Showers All Plumbing Work Undertaken Ring Robert Tel: 01793 324030 or Mobile: 07868 738072

• Central heating installation • • • • •

Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Outside taps Power showers Bathroom installations Reg: 128966

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLUMBING

REFURBISHMENTS

NEED A PLUMBER?

E D Eggleston Limited Tel: 01793 642026 Mobile: 07976 705143

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

Call !"#$ %&'&

296 January Repair & Improve

47

DOMESTIC • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Garage conversions • Flat pack make up • No job too small

COMMERCIAL • Office refurbishment • Data and voice wiring • Office partitions • False ceiling • CCTV

References can be supplied to support my trustworthiness, reliability and quality of workmanship

Painting and decorating Floor & wall tiling Garden maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Upvc double glazing Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Carpentry services Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

ROOFING

Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 640012 07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

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

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

TILING

GILES BROS � Felt roofing � Asphalt roofing � Sheet roofing � Tiling � Slating � Single Ply � Fascia � Guttering ���

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

15/12/06, 11:22 am

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

48

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CHRIS PAYNE

Aerial & Television Services

GUARANTEED REPAIRS...

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS

Chartered Certified Accountants

email: enquiries@dykebrading.co.uk

✭ Satellite TV ✭ Sky & digital terrestial ✭ Extra TV, telephone & electrical points ✭ Storm damage

www.dykebrading.co.uk

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0777 6236415

CHAUFFEUR HIRE

CLEANING

Small Business Specialists Tel: 01793 610008

TK

★★★★★

Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379 or 07774 943 783

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

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

WASHCAR E 01793 - 643785

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Domestic Cleaning Services

EXECUTIVE TRAVEL Luxury Private Hire Chauffeur service - Corporate travel Executive transfers - Air - Sea - Rail Theatre trips - Exclusive shopping days Luxury pamper days - Sporting events Wedding occasion - Prom nights

Tel: 01793 854490 Mobile: 07796 508840

Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Tel: 01793 814782 Mob: 07909 500724 Mandy - (Proprietor)

email: info@tkexecutivetravel.co.uk www.tkexecutivetravel.co.uk

email: mandy@donendusted.info www.donendusted.info

IRONING

www.thepcguysonline.com

MORTGAGE ADVICE

AIM FOR success in 2007 ADVERTISE in Swindon's most closely read publication call 01793

602540

296 January Service Sector

• TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points • TV repairs • Freeview installation • Signal amplifiers in Noticed terferen lately? T ce No call out e filters fi tra charge tted All work guaranteed

SECURITY SYSTEMS

SECURITY SYSTEMS TOPS SECURITY SYSTEMS Electronic Security Solutions ❍ INTRUDER ALARMS ❍ CCTV SYSTEMS ❍ FIRE ALARMS ❍ EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS ❍ ACCESS CONTROL ❍ ENTRY SYSTEMS ❍ GATE AUTOMATION For a free, no obligation quotation tel: 01793 705216

48

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

14/12/06, 5:17 pm

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

Tel: 01793 - 812738

49

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

REMIER Pelectrics Established 30 years

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

BOOK-KEEPING Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work?

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

Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Tel: 01793 469300

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

GARDEN CLEARANCE

Com Master’s PC Repairs

CLEAR AWAY

CARPET CLEANING

CAKESBAKED4U Had trouble finding that special cake?

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

Or not known what design the wedding cake should be?

Look no further, let me help you Ring Sylvia on 01793 771552

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • 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

www.cakesbaked4u.co.uk

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

GARAGE DOORS The Automatic Choice

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN

GARDEN & HOUSEHOLD CLEARANCE

Why go anywhere else?

When we’ll come to you..... ✻ ✻ ✻ ✻ ✻

CAKES BAKED

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

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements

EASIER THAN A SKIP, WHY DO IT YOURSELF?

See our displays at

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE

Let us load and remove your rubbish for you

Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

NO JOB TOO SMALL

01793 513796

Also odd jobs & decorating

email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

Free estimates

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Call Danny on 01793 702407 or 07957 820064

MINI BUS HIRE

OVEN CLEANING

AIRPORT SERVICE 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

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time.

Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

FARINGDON UPHOLSTERY 31 Park Road, Faringdon

Buy direct from your local manufacturer and save money At Faringdon Upholstery we manufacture top quality upholstery supplied direct to the public. We make your furniture the way you want it, with thousands of fabrics to choose from.

★ Established 25 years

WANTED

★ Craftsman built

Link Magazine distributors needed in Old Shaw Lane/ Cartwright Drive Upper Shaw Middleleaze Grange Park Toothill For details call Brian Holden on 723745

296 January Service Sector

10% discount with this advert

49

★ All suites fully guaranteed ★ All suites covered in your own choice of fabric ★ Solid wood frames ★ Made to measure ★ Re-upholstery service ★ Curtains

✆

01367 241855

SALE NOW ON Don’t settle for mass produced when you can have made-to-measure for the same price!

Come and see our wide selection of suites today

Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm

14/12/06, 5:18 pm

50

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Fund launched to remember much loved child

Vacancy The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis needs a physiotherapist to work in the centre for 2 to 3 hours a week on days to suit the practitioner.

For details contact Jackie Wray on 481700.

Anthony Paul Mobile Hairdresser

(01793) 323400 or 07970 079681 Over 20 years experience in ladies, mens & childrens hairdressing

ANYTHING TRANSFERRED ONTO DVD DISC Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

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

Premier Klean

Although still struggling to come to terms with the death of her baby daughter, Toni Malik from Middleleaze is channelling her energy into fundraising for the new Children’s Hospital in Oxford (CHO).

Little Jazmin was born with a Toni has been rare combination of heart condi- overwhelmed by tions in January 06. She died after her loss but says open heart surgery aged just 2 that her campaign weeks. is helping her feel more positive. Together with husband Naeem, she hopes to raise PAINTING & DECORATING £50,000 for the GENERAL MAINTENANCE CHO. No job too small Jazmin was Jazmin in an incubator at Oxford’s JR Hospital Free estimates treated at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford and pose to help other babies and we’ve Call Phil on 827557 whilst Toni says the staff were fan- named the fund, Jazmin’s Wish. If Mobile: 07790 102280 tastic, facilities for parents could her being here helps just one baby have been better. She is impressed to live, then she will have achieved LET US STEAM THROUGH YOUR IRONING with the design of CHO which will her wish.” open this month. “It truly is a reThe couple are still gathering markable place and will benefit their thoughts on fundraising ideas many people in the years to come. and would welcome any help or Free collection & delivery, reliable & friendly “To honour our daughter and suggestions.

Regular or ad-hoc service • 24 hour turnaround do something to help others, it is They have set up a website with Hangers available our mission to sponsor a single affiliate schemes which will make Tel: 01793 725061 room. We will name this room af- donations to the fund: ter Jazmin as a permanent memo- www.geocities.com/tigerlillyyy rial to her short but incredible life.”

To offer help and advice mail: “We believe it was Jazmin’s pur- jazmins_wish@hotmail.co.uk

PS SERVICES

Professional carpet & upholstery cleaning Freephone: 0800 2800544

Boxes make a brighter Christmas abroad

www.my-relationships.co.uk

Scouts and Guides, primary schools and several churches in the North Swindon area collected 740 shoe boxes filled with essentials and goodies for children in Eastern Europe and Africa as part of this year’s Operation Christmas Child project.

A special service on 19 November at the Church of Christ the Servant Abbey Meads dedicated the boxes before they were collected to be sent to needy children in time for Christmas.

Shoe box collectors Diane Charlesworth Herbert and Sian Wiltshire waiting for the boxes to be collected

Holder of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

THREE GOOD REASONS TO USE OUR GREAT MONEY OFF VOUCHER 1 If you’ve not used us for a while - Welcome back 2 If you’ve never used us before - Try us 3 If you used this voucher last time - HERE’S ANOTHER

REMIND YOURSELF WHAT NATURAL UNPROCESSED FOOD IS LIKE Chips from real potatoes and top quality fish from the sea - all with fewer calories than chicken tikka masala, sweet & sour pork* and more nutritious and satisfying than burger and fries.

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

£1 off all orders over £3 with this voucher West Swindon District Centre. Tel: 870 455

21 January 07

50

Players wanted Shaw U9s Football Club need a couple of players to strengthen their current squad. They play in the First Division of the North Wiltshire Youth & Minor League and train on Wednesday at 6.30pm at Greendown School .

For details call Graham Haskell on 878880 or Stuart Wykham-Martin on 831148.

Start the year with a family bike ride Robin Kane is organising a family bike ride get together on Monday 1 January, 12noon to 3pm.

This a chance to try out the new Christmas gift or dust down the old bike neglected in the garage. Anybody aged 2 to 92 is invited along to enjoy a trip around Swindon’s parks, play areas and nature reserves via cycle routes.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring your own refreshments. The event is supported by Active Swindon, Swindon Road Safety and the Cycling Touring Club and organised in conjunction with Sustrans.

Details from Robin on 520109 or mail robin.kane2@ntlworld.com

14/12/06, 11:33 am

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Farewell from West Swindon vicar

51

We believe that Jesus Christ is able to forgive our past, give meaning to the present and hope for the future

24 October 1995 was the beginning of a very special and blessed adventure and just over eleven years later we are off to pastures new, writes Rev Peter Knight. all who have shared in our time Having taught Physical Educahere. The Lord’s richest blessing tion and History for 20 years, comand may your New Year be full of ing into the ministry was both a excitement and fulfilment. challenge but also an amazing privilege.

• Peter played wing and full back Ro and I came to All Saints for England rugby and the British Church, Lydiard Millicent to help Lions from 1969 to 1972. He toured Sunday services are at share in the Partnership of West South Africa, New Zealand and 10am & 6.30pm Swindon and the Lydiards and our Fiji. time here has been very uplifting, For further information you can In December 1995 he told The both in terms of a lovely church either ring (01793) 873050; Link that he had felt the pull of the e-mail: office@freshbrook.org fellowship and also becoming part Lord when he was 12, but the move or visit: www.freshbook.org of the community of Millicent and to become a minister did not hapthe wider areas of Sparcells and “the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23) pen until he was 48.

Peatmoor.

Like all spiritual journeys, it has had its moments but there are defiPeter and Ro Knight nitely no regrets. We are so thankful to have known and come along- tions; helping a church fellowship side so many wonderful people grow in their understanding of all during our time here. Working in that it means to be a follower of Lydiard Millicent and Peatmoor Christ - these, along with so many Wednesdays between 8pm & 9pm Primary Schools; sharing in very other cherished memories, have Use it for 5, 10 or 50 minutes (you decide) unique and deeply moving times been part of this privileged experiWarm space, quiet music, candlelight, with Baptism, Wedding and Fu- ence. neral Thanksgiving services; helpdiscover the benefits of Early in the New Year we will be ing many come to know better the moving to the Parish of the the peaceful atmosphere person of Jesus Christ and the Claydons, situated within a trianEnjoy ‘YOU’ space. Session co-ordinators will only speak with Christian faith through pro- gle of Bicester, Aylesbury and you if absolutely necessary or upon your request grammes such as Alpha; an ex- Buckingham to look after three change to a parish north of Sydney rural churches. We will miss West EMMANUEL CHURCH in Australia; welcoming many new Swindon and Lydiard Millicent in High Street, Haydon Wick, Swindon families to All Saints and sending particular but believe this new callwww.emmanuelchurchuk.org others to serve in different loca- ing is the right one and thank you

QUIET SPACE

Recharge & clear your mind

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

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

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com

Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

www.nsbc.org.uk

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

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting www.swindonfamilychurch.org.uk

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

21 January 07

51

14/12/06, 11:33 am

21 January 07

52

14/12/06, 11:06 am