July 1999 Swindon Link

No. 206 • July 1999 • Circulation 20,000

THE

E Always at your convenience

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

WIN TICKETS TO GREAT MUSIC EVENTS THIS SUMMER Two spectaculars at Longleat House in July & August

Marlborough Jazz Festival

Fireworks & laser concert Bowood-House, 14 August

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Out of Town Tandoori and receive a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his staff Fu lly licensed restaurant, takeaway service available with 10% discount

Soprano sensation 13 year old Charlotte Church visited the town on 2 June to promote the Wiltshire Festival Classical Extravaganza in August. She sang for the media, her last public performance before flying over to Washington DC. We meet her on page 22 Above: Nine year old Rebecca Dun ford presents Charlotte Church with a bouquet after she sang Pie Jesu at the DeVere Hotel

Tel: 01793 770998/770253 Fax: 01793 770998 Sunday lunch: 1 pm - 3.30pm Open: 7 days a week 5.30pm to midnight (incl Bank Holidays, exc. Christmas Day)

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The Link Magazine • July 199 9

Dental aid for the Ukraine on its way Two Swindon dentists are preparing to make the 3,000 mile round trip to the Ukraine, from 21 July to 4 August, taking equipment, supplies and their expertise to help improve dental services in the Cherkassy region.

Brendon Ball, who runs the CEMENT

"I'm starting to have a few butterflies now that we're closer to the date. However, we have had some excellent donations from dentists and suppliers have been very generous, especially Kemdent at Purton."

He also thanked HK97 takeaway at the West Swindon Centre for donating the plastic containers to carry the small instruments.

Many parents and children in the town will know Richard Swift as he specialises in children's dental problems. He said he was pleased to be travelling as the navigator. "I was attracted by the idea of helping with children in the Ukraine."

Dentaid director Peter Gardner

Freshbrook dental practice,

was inspired to make the trip after reading articles about the work of dental charity Dentaid in The Link over the last two years. Orthodontist Richard Swift from the Milton Road practice jumped at the chance to join him.

On 5 June they loaded every item they had collected from other dentists and suppliers and took it to the Dentaid base in mid-Wales where it has had

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to be checked, entered on an

Russian language inventory and sealed for customs.

Brendon's Ford Galaxy will be full of anaesthetics, antibiotics, syringes and instruments, plus dental hygiene materials such as rubber gloves and sterile packs to reduce cross infection. As dental instruments are small but expensive, the intrepid pair will be delivering about £10,000 worth of aid.

In Cherkassy they will install and commission a surgery already in place at a childrens hospital and also install another at a village

Property to rent

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outside the town. They will also be running training sessions for local dentists who routinely carry said the organisation greatly apout fillings and full route canal preciated the commitment being work without any pain killers made by Brendon and Richard.

"They have a hectic programme whatsoever.

"Reading about Dentaid in The for the ten days in the Ukraine.

Link got me thinking about help- They will be quite shocked by the ing out, because every dentist has antiquity of the equipment and the outdated equipment which is in primitive conditions in which dengood condition," said Brendon. tal work is carried out."

High flying business blasts off into space

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JMM Embroidery, which started in a spare bedroom ten years ago and now provides emroidered sweatshirts to most of the schools in the town, recently had one of its badges taken into space on the shuttle.

Managing Director Jan Messenger, was contacted by the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency to supply the special badge after USAF pilot Lt. Col. Rick Husband contacted DERA at Boscombe Down for a momento of his time as an exchange fast test pilot.

The badge commemorates 60 years of aircraft testing. JMM also embroidered a further 2,000 copies.

Now JMM embroiders well over The company supplies HM Forces based worldwide. "Our badges and 100,000 garments and 20,000 badges garments are worn by units serving in a year, and also supplies German and many countries including the Gulf, the Norwegian units.

"It's a long way into space from my Falklands, Bosnia, Canada and more recently southern Italy and Macedonia," said Jan.

spare bedroom in Freshbrook," said

Jan, who now lives on St Andrew's "We all watch television closely to Ridge. "The business has grown largely by word of mouth. Members spot our work on the news."

Many years ago Jan taught Business of one unit spot our work and our name is passed on. We can also reStudies and had the idea of creating personalised giftware for craft events spond at very short notice which with her sewing machine. But it was pleases our customers.

"We're always keen to take up a after Windmill Hill School in Freshbrook asked her to embroider their challenge and there is no minimum new logo in 1988 that she discovered order. Whether you are from a school, there was a huge market in embroi- a community group or military unit, give us a call." dered leisurewear.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link

ine • July 1999

Is Swindon ready to become a city?

Last month we questioned whether the time is right for the town to be awarded city status. Our concern is that whilst the idea is generally thought a good thing for business, there has been little debate of the issue at a community level - from the point of view of the people who live in the town.

For many, economic success has created a sense of unease about getting even larger. City status suggests continued expansion with the possible deterioration of services, the environment and quality of life. Would it be better to be a successful big town, rather aspiring to become a small city?

What are the benefits?

The Bishop of Swindon the Rt Revd Michael Doe, chaired a working group 'City Status for Swindon' which submitted an application to the Home Office last October. He writes: City Status is an honour given to a Borough by the Queen, on the advice of the Home Office, usually on the occasion of a royal anniversary. The last was Sunderland in 1992, to mark the fortieth year of the Queen's accession.

Last year we here in Swindon persuaded the Home Secretary that, rather than wait until 2002, there should be a new city created to mark the Millennium. On the day of the State Opening of Parliament, I went with our two MPs to meet Mr Straw, and present him with a document setting out why Swindon should be that first new city of a new Millennium.

The 'City Status' group which I've been chairing over the past two years is made up of people from the public, private and voluntary sectors of the town. It has the support of the Borough Council but, unlike most of the other boroughs now looking for such recognition, it comes from the wider community rather than the council itself. An important and very enthusiastic member is the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire.

City status will not give us a Lord Mayor, and it has nothing to do with having a Cathedral. It will not ensure that 'Swindon City FC' gets into the Premier League - but we can still hope!

—

What it will do is give national and overdue recognition of what Swindon has become. In the south west region we are not just one municipal borough but the third largest and most significant centre of population. Our economic growth and importance is now recognised internationally. As our submission stated, we are a "community built on achievement".

The year 2000 will also be Swindon's centenary as aborough. Supporting the bid to become a city is an opportunity for the whole community to celebrate our history, to say we're proud to be part of Swin-

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Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01 793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com

Published: 24 July Copy for September: 13 August The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

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

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Deserved recognition

' WE COME TO YOU'

Swindon is uniquely qualified to become a city writes council leader Sue Bates on page 4

What are your views on city status for Swindon?

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Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle General enquiries: Tel: (01793) 872282 Advertising: Jenni Fowler Tel: (01793) 872531 Editorial: Tel: (01793) 872282 General

don today, and to affirm that we want to play our part in its future.

Of course, as the editorial in the June Link said, there's still a lot to be done if we are to be a successful city in all its aspects. Whilst becoming a city cannot but have a positive effect on further economic success, we need to ensure that this enriches the whole community, supplementing public services where the low rate of council tax cannot provide what is needed.

We need to achieve more in the fields of higher education, community-building and our cultural life. But becoming a city will surely be a further incentive to work together for the good of all.

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The Link Magazine • Jul y 1999

City status is an advantage to all Writes Sue Bates, Leader, Swindon Borough Council A beautiful keepsake of your most memorable day Also available for corsages, buttonholes, silk/sugarcraft flowers and other floral tributes.

No pressing involved A unique service by Jan Haugh on lowers 01793 881991 orer'er Call anytime.

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Better roads in a city?

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What makes a city? Having a cathedral, evidence of previous ancient occupation, a university campus or could it be industry and people?

Most people have story. I have often said thought that to be a city that I believe the town you have to have a caand its people are our thedral. This is just a cathedral. myth. In fact the criteria Our new Roman reis fairly open, and it is mains offer visitors an Privy Counsellors (gov insight into the past hisernmentministers)who tory of the area, our advise the Queen. modern industry points The case for Swindon the path into the future.

City has already been k Our people are di£`. wellmadebyanindependentcom- verse. Some come from long esmittee, its evidence is fully sup- tablished Swindon families, many ported by Swindon Council. came here as part of the London Swindon is unique. That is why overspill exercise. More recently I believe we have a strong case. Its many have been attracted by the people over many generations enormous potential and work have adapted to ever changing en- prospects. vironments. It is this and the foreThe growth in Swindon has been sight of successive councils that an advantage to everyone. The have made Swindon a success cycle of its success goes on.

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Ian Bateman thinks Swindon's road system will be improved.

I hope Swindon does get city status then maybe the council will have more money for their projects.

For example they will be able to buy more white paint for the roads.

They will be able to create more 24 hour bus lanes for buses that run for 12 hours.

They will be able to put more traffic calming in, except of course where it is needed. They might

even be able to finsh putting in their traffic lights within 10 yards of roundabouts.

Oh and of course, they could leave the temporary library alone.

I am convinced whoever is in charge of the highway department is either blind, does not drive or chooses roundabout junctions with a dart.

So let's hope Swindon gets city status and a bigger budget. ianbateman@dtn.ntl.com

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The 21st Century Swindon Forum holds its second annual general meeting on Tuesday 20 July, 6.30pm, at Drove Social Hall in Southampton Street. It is open to the public.

At 7.30pm a debate about the potential risks and benefits of geCould your area netically modified foods and crops use a junk swap? with a focus on wildlife takes place.

One of the speakers, Dr Les Wiltshire is leading the UK by Firbank from the Institute of Ter- appointing a Waste Minimisation restrial Ecology was responsible Officer to organise ten 'Junk Swap for conducting the GM crop trial at Days' over the next two years.

Junk swapping, an effective way Lushill Farm near Blunsdon before the experiment was brought of reducing waste going to landfill, is a regular occurrence in Germany, to an abrupt end in early June.

Other speakers include Pete Holland and Canada.

It has already been successfully Riley from Friends of the Earth and Tim Finney of Eastbrook Or- piloted locally. In Malmesbury hundreds of children, many ganic Farm, Bishopstone.

Jean Saunders, secretary of the dressed as Wombles, helped bring Forum said, one of the concerns unwanted junk to their school. about growing herbicide resistant Residents in the town then looted GM crops is that all weeds are each other's belongings in the destroyed thus depriving farmland name of community recycling. wildlife of essential food sources.

Householders in Wootton BasConventional farming achieves sett also had a good clear out, with 50% to 60% efficiency in weed cop- many 'treasures' to be had for free. trol, whilst organic farming is exIf you are interested in holding an event in your neighbourhood, tremely sympathetic to nature."

For more information on the contact Wiltshire's Waste MinimiForum, or the meeting, telephone sation Officer on 01380 729218 or 01793 784534. wiltshireagenda2l@compuserve.com

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

ne • July 1999

The Link

Instruments raise cash for Prospect

COOPERS CHEMIST

One thousand pounds has been donated to the Prospect Hospice by Paul Issitt from Westlea, in memory of his wife Frances, an inspirational music teacher who lost her fight against cancer last July.

The money was raised by the ing a 30 year difference in age. sale of her musical instruments, a Paul supported Frances in the deflute an d a clarinet. velopment of her musical talent During her illness, Frances spent and, once she learned to drive, a month at the Hospice and was there was no stopping her. deeply grateful for their care. So it She started her teaching career seemed to Paul a fitting way to at Marlborough College. Later she remember her. "I felt she would and Paul set up Westlea Music have liked that," he said.

School and Frances also worked in Frances, who was 48 when she many local primary schools includdied, had lived a life that was both ing Westlea, Tregoze and Brook difficult and rich. Until the age of Field. She enjoyed her teaching 14, she spent much of her life in immensely. Her pupils' real love hospital as a result of polio. As an for her was poignantly demonobviously musically talented 18 strated by the 100 or so letters Paul year old, she made an immediate received from them when she died.

Despite the warnings, "the age impression on Paul, who was Director of Music at the school for gap made not the slightest differdisabled girls that she attended. ence," says Paul. "We were alAmid much family consterna- ways very close. We celebrated tion and warnings that 'it would our 25th wedding anniversary the not work', they married, disregard- year before Frances died."

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Extra advice sessions The West Swindon Family & Community Project has extended its service to provide free, confidential advice on welfare benefits, debt, housing, employment rights and the CSA. Two years ago Mina Bhogal came for advice and found herself drawn into the work. She can offer advice in Punjabi and Urdu as well as English.

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of a GP practice, with general help on benefits and other concerns," she said. "But, like GPs, we also have specialist contacts to whom we can refer."

George McGill joined the team three years ago. Since then, he has qualified as an advice work trainer, enabling the Project to train its own volunteers. He stresses that people should always get advice before filling in any DSS forms.

Roy Williams has been given an

advice giver since 1982, providing a wealth of experience.

In the last year, the West Swindon Advice Point saw 300 clients.

Constant changes in the benefits system have increased both demand and the time needed to complete forms. The need for debt counselling and advocacy is also growing.

The three sessions a week at West Swindon Family & Community Project, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, take place on: Skills to share?

The Project is looking for volun- Monday and Wednesday, 10am teers willing to share their crea- 12noon tive skills with a small group on Friday 11.30am -1.30pm. A downoccasional Tuesday mornings stairs room is available on Friday from September 1999. A creche is for those with mobility problems. available for under fives.

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The Old Town Festival Once again the streets and parks of Swindon's Old Town will be taken over on 10 and 11 July for a free community event.

It really is a festival full of fun and frolics for the whole family in which you can take part. Dress up in Victorian style, join in the parade or just sit back and be entertained by the antics of the street performers.

The streets come alive The main focus of activity on Saturday 10 July is Victoria Road, Wood Street and High Street and Lawns park.

The Jolly Brolly Parade, such a brilliant success last year, gathers at Prospect Place car park from 10.30am before touring the streets of Old Town from 11 am, accompanied by performers, jugglers and clowns.

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All you have to do is dress up, decorate an umbrella and join in the colourful procession to Wood Street for the official opening of the festival by the Mayor of Swindon.

Then it's over into the Lawns for a craft show, a pet show and a garden produce competition. Look out for the performers who may just catch you unawares.

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A day in the park Discover the delights of Town dance of all kinds will be found there, Gardens, off Bath Road, where the and it's all free. Look out for the art festival continues on Sunday 11 July, gallery, as well as the delightful old from 11 am. bandstand and the beautifully A craft fair, performers, music and planted flower beds.

Launching the 1999 festival in early June, Swindon Mayor councillor Joyce Brunt with Swindon's Queen Victoria Mary Ratcliffe, councillor Derique Montaut and members of the town's performing family, the Circus Sardin

Christ Church, Cricklade Street Flower Festival over the Old Town Festival weekend Slide presentation: Old Town 1945 - 1999, by the Swindon Society, Friday 9 July, 7.30pm in aid of the Prospect Hospice

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Sale of bric-a-brac, books and coins, Church hall, Devizes Road, Saturday 10 July, 10.30am in aid of church funds

LAYLOCKS SWINDON'S FAMILY SHOE SHOP Est. 1920

STOCKISTS OF ALL LEADING BRANDS

Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves An old fashioned bookshop for customers who like things the way they used to be with a standard of se rv ice for today. Book tokens available

Victoria Bookshop 30 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon. Tel: (01793) 527364

BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

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A four month reading marathon at Tregoze School was hailed a great success at an awards ceremony at the DeVere Hotel on 28 May for children, staff and parents who had achieved a gold medal in the Books and Beyond reading scheme.

Organiser deputy headteacher Stephen Richardson said, "the project has exceeded expectations. The love of reading amongst children has increased as they have explored new worlds through books."

Books and Beyond gold medal winners with Stephen Richardson and Greendown special needs coordinator Andy Russell who presented the prizes

01793 848177 or 01793 770596

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Garden theft sends out warning Warm summer weather means that doors and sheds are left unlocked.

It's easy pickings for the opportunist thief warns Sheila Morley from Camden Close, Grange Park.

Town Square, West Swindon Centre, Swindon • Tel: 870462 38c Gainsborough Avenue, Wootton Bassett • Tel: 853220

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Residents tied up in red tape to

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Her three year old daughter Danyelle had her multicoloured tricycle stolen from the back garden during half term in early June.

It was a birthday gift and Danyelle kept saying, "granny won't be happy."

Sheila said it is upsetting for children who cannot understand if an important toy goes missing.

"It's a great pity that you can't leave things in your own garden for fear of them being stolen. Parents need to keep a good watch out for people acting suspiciously and report thefts to the police. We might get the tricycle back if it is dumped."

TO CIRENCESTER JPENHIL

MOONRAKERS

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BEECHCROFT ROAD

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WE ARE HERE GOAREEA

A group of Grange Park households continue to battle with Swindon Council to keep a well used play area open for their children rather than allow it to be closed.

Last autumn, the residents of maintaining one slide, a climbing Grindal Drive offered to take over frame and a sit-on rocking horse," and maintain the equipment and says Lee Murray of Charisma local company Charisma Blinds Blinds. "They have made it quite offered sponsorship. clear that they don't like our proSince then, despite numerous posal and would prefer to close letters and meetings, council offic- the play area down." ers have failed to provide a realisFreshbrook councillor Chris tic figure for the cost of maintain- Eley, who has been working with ing the play area. The best they the Murrays, is more hopeful. "I have offered is a figure of £1,300 a am pushing quite hard to get someyear, a Swindon wide average thing resolved,"he said. "It's good which includes the cost of main- that local residents want to keep taining equipment at much larger the play area open and I'm supsites such as Lydiard Park. portive of that. There have been "They won't give us a price problems with red tape and we're breakdown to justify the cost of trying to get through them."

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You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK.

For free advice and further information, call us now on

Swindon 772779 "Representative only of CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only.

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

Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5151731 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 222123 Credit broker fees of up to 1% on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied is 3.49% (3.6% APR) for two years. APR Is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subject to status. Subject to our current lending criteria. A 3.4% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 6.89%. Those applicants benefiting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within five years from the date of completion will be charged an additional six months interest. This charge will be reimbursed M e new mortgage is then taken out with the Society. A Ille assurance policy may be required.

Example: A marned couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying loran endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 October 1999 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tee of £136.70. Monthly endowment premium of C74.96, Total amount payable £113.619 calculated to include valuation fee £155. This cekuletion Is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan £150,000. The rate applies to loans up to

and

including 95% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is the ower. The discounted rate is applicable for two years, after which the then current rate will apply.

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

10

TOOTH ILL

PAUL SMALL

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J.F.Ktd..^^

BUILDING SERVICES Extensions, Alterations, Renovations All aspects of garden construction including fencing All general building work

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (01793) 727824

GAS & HEATING SERVICES

Servicing • Installation Breakdown • All gas appliances & central heating • Landlord safety inspection • Plumbing repairs • Emergency call out • British Gas trained • Corgi registered

Tel: 01793 828143 Mobile: 0378 913119

Dr Peter Swinyard Dr Robert Forrester PHOENIX SURGERY Building work on our new permanent surge ry at Toothill Village Centre has started and we are now able to register new patients. We look forward to meeting you.

All enquiries: (01793) 433211 Phoenix Surge ry Deerhurst Way, Toothill Village Centre

Phoenix rises at village centre Construction on Dr Peter Swinyard's Phoenix practice got underway on 25 May, with a completion date set for November, the fourth anniversary of setting up the practice in a temporary surgery in a house at Deerhurst Way. Built by Stoneform, the £400,000 purpose-designed facility will include two consulting rooms, a treatment room, an office base for attached health professionals, good disabled access and facilities, an informal counselling room, and waiting room with separate reception area and records store.

The design allows for the addition of further consulting rooms to meet increasing demands from a growing practice which currently has some 4,000 patients.

Dr Swinyard provides a health check for the Stoneform digger with practice manager Caryl Swinyard and partner Dr Robert Forrester

Keen kids cycle for Kosovo Fifteen youngsters from Toothill School took part in the Great Swindon Cycle Ride at the end of May and raised nearly £1,000 for the Swindon Ocotal Link appeal and for the Kosovo refugee collection.

Three teachers and two parent helpers also covered the 35 mile circular route from Barbury Castle to Ashbury.

"I never realised that Swindon had so many hills," said parent Mick Northway.

Teacher Martyn Cowell said Toothill was the only school to take part and congratulated those who did the ride. "It was a blazing hot day and we had a good time. Thanks to all the fundraisers and their sponsors."

Good cause cyclists, front from left, Simon Huckville, Dave Kane, Paul Lampard, Lee Mulholland. Middle, Paul Henley, Ross Mulholland, Nicholas Latham, Jodie Moss, Vicky James, Scott Dee, Ryan Northway. Rear, Tessa Dean, Martyn Cowell, Mick Northway, Karen Walcott

Kosovo collection carries on Although the war in Kosovo is over, the refugee needs continue. The volunteers of Upper Stra tt on Baptist Church are stills collecting and transporting donations of clothing and food.

Church elder Chris Butcher says, "although the media focus has moved into Kosovo, there are several hundred thousand refugees still in camps in Albania. Their needs are as great as ever and we will continue to collect clothing, underwear, toiletries, sanitary items, bedding, dried and tinned foods. Winter is just four months away and we are now collecting warm clothing.

He also appealed for cash to cover transportation costs. Over 130 tons has been sent from Swindon since early April. A seventh truck load will depart in early July.

The church in Green Road is open Monday to Friday, 5pm to 9pm.

The most up to date information can be read www.usbc.freeserve.co.uk/refugee.htm

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

11

Copperbox set out to conquer the world of weddings Peatmoor based jewellers Copperbox are well on the way to making the tiara the 'must have' accessory for the millennium.

Established in September 1997, Copperbox design and handcraft tiaras. Their work combines simplicity and style and is all hand twisted and tied, with no soldering. It has attracted the attention of celebrities such as Denise Van Outen, who wore several pieces whilst presenting Channel 4's Big Breakfast.

Partners Tina Kelly and Jihane Ghandour met whilst on an NVQ Childcare and Education course at e Swindon College. Jihane had previously studied Interior Design, whilst Tina was working with children with special needs at Holy Family Infants School. They have spent two years developing their range and building confidence in their product. 1999 has already

seen the launch of four ranges.

Swindon jewellers, Deacons of Old The Millennium Solar Crystal Town. 'Petite Cu Tiara"'" a range of Collection has been taken up by bridal tiaras, offers co-ordinated pieces for brides and bridesmaids and cufflinks for the groom. A new fun range, 'Doowdles', has been designed for local shop Purple Gherkin.

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Big achievement in small art

And 'Molten Copper" offers a range of handcrafted designer tiaras for young clubbers at affordable prices.

"We are thrilled that Deacons have taken our range," said Tina.

"It's a huge accolade."

Having already exhibited at events at both Blunsdon House and the De Vere, Tina and Jihane are now preparing for the world's biggest bridal trade show at Harrogate in September.

"More than 6,000 people are expected to attend and there will be

A local artist with no formal training has just been accepted into a P prestigious society for miniaturists.

Sonia Leggett, from Nine Elms, wide. It only accepts submissions below, is exhibiting four pictures at of the highest quality. the Hilliard Society's Exhibition Sonia developed an interest in for the second year running, the floral miniatures three years ago, requirement for membership. The soon after starting evening classes. society, named after a great Eliza- Miniatures are defined as being bethan miniaturist, was formed in rectangular paintings smaller than 1981 and has 300 members world- 4"x6" or circular works no more than 4.5" in diameter. Much of Sonia's work is under 2".

"I like painting flowers and feel I can express myself through smaller pictures," she said. "The work is painstaking and demanding, but I find it relaxing. Fine detail is painted with the aid of a magnifying glass."

Sonia, who works full time as a secretary in a busy office, exhibits locally through the Wroughton Art Society and the Liddington Art Group. She is planning a print run of greeting cards from her paintings in the near future.

Her work can be seen online at: www.tdpmedia.co.uk / soniap.html

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hundreds of stands. We really don't know what to expect."

To find out more about Copperbox, call 879974.

Peugeot range includes: 3 & 5 doors, petrol & diesel Saloons, hatchbacks & estates Details of other models available on request

Contact Jonathan Sharp

Fish Brothers Telephone (01793) 642591

Great Western Way, Mannington, Swindon pEUGEOT

MAIN PEUGEOT DEALER

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Deposits are correct at time of going to press and are subject to Motobility terms and conditions which may vary. Model shown for illustration purposes only.

HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

12

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Bowlers have a home of their own Haydon Wick bowlers are the envy of others throughout the region following the opening of their new £150,000 club house on 16 June.

Club President Heather Morse, addressing the Mayor of Swindon, guests and club members in scorching weather, admitted to a dream the night before that the green would be flooded in a downpour.

Fundraising has been going on for seven years, but a £94,029 lottery grant from Sport England brought plans for a club house to fruition much sooner than expected.

Keen wood worker Luke Musson from Woodhall Park sculpted a bowler which was unveiled at the opening ceremony.

Receiving the lottery grant,from left, Heather Morse, club president, sculptor Luke Mussard, John Northover, President of the Wiltshire Bowls Association, Swindon Mayor coun Joyce Brunt, Rosemary Wood, past President of the Wiltshire Women's Bowls Association, Simon Ridd of Sport England

Manager plans charity cycle

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Safeway manager Paul Walsh will see the Taj Mahal on his holiday this year, but he will have to cycle 350km for the privilege.

His inspiration to ride the footI N^ hills of the Himalayas in aid of ^„^w MENCAP came after watching a holiday programme and also a personal tragedy.

He aims to raise about £10,000 for the cha rity 's work with the mentally disabled. Paul said, "I lost a close friend in a road accident. He spent some time on a life support machine and if he had lived, he would have been mentally disabled; this made me aware of MENCAP's work."

Cycling to work from Covingham is helping Paul to get fit for his marathon ride. He is also building up endurance by regular rides along the Ridgeway.

The 11 day trip, from 13 November, includes five days of over seven hours in the saddle. There is an 8km climb on one section, but the reward is a 40kms downhill ride on the other side.

To secure a place on the trip New look in store with 100 other cyclists, Paul had to Work has started on a £1.5million pay £300 and pledge to raise at revamp for the Safeway store. least £2,500 for the charity. He has Internally there will be a total already held a number of fund- refit of shelving, lighting and till raising events. In September with points. Among the planned imother managers, he will do a gruel- provements is a new bakery, deliling ride to 20 stores, on a three catessen and fresh produce secseater bike, originally used in the tion. television comedy The Goodies.

It is anticipated that at least To contribute to Paul's effort, twenty additional staff will be recontact him at Safeway, Haydon cruited before completion, schedWick. Tel: 726705. uled for 9 August.

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

Green light for Haydon Swindon Borough Council's development control committee gave the go ahead on 1 June for an additional 5,500 houses and a shopping complex, at least double the size of the West Swindon District Centre. This final stage of the northern development will be completed in eight to ten years.

With the masterplan agreed a of Lady Lane until theroadisready erty developer and is expected to attract interest from the largest sumore detailed framework plan, for use."

Plans to restrict access to cars permarket chains. At present, no split into four stages, will be drawn up for approval. The first, to be between Elstree and Westfield community or recreation facilities submitted in late summer, will be Way have now been formally are planned for the centre, though plans for the northern orbital road, dropped after consultation with a site for a library has been identified. from Lady Lane to Purton Road. the public.

Conditions set by the council to Completion is anticipated in late The development includes sites for five primary schools, a second- the developers include 450 houses 2000.

Martin Trewhella, Senior Plan- ary school, linked open spaces and for housing association use and a ning Officer, said, "no houses will two village shopping centres. The contribution of ÂŁ1 million to imbe built in Haydon III, to the west districtcentrewillberunbyaprop- prove public transport.

Big turnout for school tour

Road closure

13

Summer Fayre Greenmeadow School Friday 2 July, 6pm - 9pm Fun for all the family Live entertainment, beer tent, barbecue, raffle, bouncy castle, face painting, stalls galore Church Fete Abbey Meads Village Green Saturday 3 July, 12noon-4pm Stalls, face painting, bouncy castle, live music, BBQ Proceeds to furnishings for the Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads

Blunsdon St Andrew

Church Fete Major bridge construction works Saturday 10 July, 2pm will cause the closure of ThamesBlunsdon Abbey Caravan down Drive to all traffic from FriPark, Tadpole Lane Dozens of prospective parents additional teacher has been re- day 16 July for about four days.

To be opened by Shirley Ludford and pupils visited the new Abbey cruited. As a community school, Work on rebuilding the bridge of BBC Wiltshire Sound Meads school on 12 June and were emphasis is being placed on a should be ready by the beginning Vintage cars, pony rides, cra ft given a tour of classrooms, cater- policy of partnership with the resi- of term at the new Abbey Meads stalls, live music and more ing areas, and rooms available for dents of Abbey Meads, as well as school. use by community groups, includ- parents. ing a pre-school. They also met There will be an induction members of the teaching and ad- evening for years 1 to 6 on Friday ministrative staff, and governors. 16 July when children will meet On display was the mid-blue and their teachers. The induction for grey uniform encompassing the reception pupils will begin at the school logo. start of the term. Those registered ^xa^ ficd aixtcr ect ratar o17g3^ The school is already proving will be sent details nearer the time. ^^^: itteriar a td ^rtriar popular. Over 50 reception chilHeadteacher Mrs Marilyn dren have been enrolled and an Brown can be contacted on 463000.

Ertimatcr Fret Mrs Brown, centre, with the first teachers at Abbey Meads School, from left, Ginnie Stone, Charlotte Rose, deputy headteacher Michaela Cunningham, Four years after the first families moved into Abbey Meads, the community primary school is quickly taking shape.

Comfortable independence

Evangelical Church to establish itself in no rt h

Second school start

Building work on a second 240 A group of Christians from the place primary school at Abbey Swindon Evangelical Church Meads is due to commence in would like to see a similar church September.

A planning application is being established in north Swindon.

The fellowship is part of the larg- submitted in July for the school to est independent group of churches be located at Elstree Way on the site presently used by the tempoin the UK. Sunday morning services are rary community centre and police held at Greenmeadow School, fol- station. lowed by refreshments.

Within the grounds there will be A prayer meeting is held at 49 a playground with netball court, a Elsham Way, Abbey Meads, every sports field and wildlife area.

Thursday at 7.30pm.

Access during the day will be For further information contact, through the main entrance, which Rev Anthony Finnie on 535485, or will be controlled by the school Ben and Rachel Pike on 722323. secretary.

For your retirement living, we have vacancies at Brain Court, Stratton St. Margaret and Windmill Court, Freshbrook, Swindon.

Please contact our Regional Office: Western Region, 10 The Parade Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 I NE

Tel: 01672 515622 SHELTERED PROPERTIES THROUGHOUT THE SOUTH

James Butcher Housing Association

14

WESTLEA

School grounds: regional runner up A long awaited decision on whether Westlea School's grounds would be chosen as the regional winner of the 1998 Environmental Youth Awards run by the British Trust Conservation Volunteers was made at the Royal Bath & West of England Show in early June.

Unfortunately the school did not come away with top prize but year 6 pupil Chris Carlton was presented with the trophy for the best Wiltshire project by the Duke of Somerset, right.

The work carries on to turn every bit of the grounds into a study area, which will encourage interesting plants to grow and attract wildlife and birds.

A new pond and wetland have recently been completed with wildflowers and bulbs to create interest throughout the year. Volunteer parents and children in the environmental club have started to develop a wild summer teachers involved in the long runmeadow. ning project were to be congratuHeadteacher Suzanne Seaton lated. "They have all done marvelsaid the parents, children and lous work."

Cubs take up challenge

Making books fun

Lesley Franklin, Akela of Westlea cubs, writes West Swindon Scout groups are part of the North Wiltshire Scout District and every year the cub packs are given a challenge by Assistan t District Commissioner Roger Hiles.

This year, the task set was to hold a pack meeting with an international theme. The Westlea Cubs were taken on a 'trip' to Mexico where we were taught some Spanish and tasted some hot spicy local food.

During the evening all the cubs and leaders were dressed in ponchos and made sombreros.

We played some games and also went to the silver mines to search for treasure, before catching the plane home. Everyone had a most enjoyable evening.

The Big Read came to the Asda playbus on 3 June when poet Marcus Moore spent a morning engaging children in their favourie books.

Some of the original authors of The Long Poem about West Swindon, including Katie Thomas below, read excerpts of the work.

Wilts & District Cat Club ^o^'vErF^^^ VETERINARY SURGEONS

Cat Show

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Link Centre Saturday 3 July 1 pm - 4.30pm

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PETS AT Hoi Worried who will look after your pets 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 Mitche ll for furt her details on

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77 High Street, Purton Bath Road, C ri cklade R01P Tel: 771869 Tel: 751698 Please telephone for consulting hour • All consultations by appointment Q

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Top pet food delivered free to your door 3 Full Range of Complete Dog Food 3 Complete Cat Foods 3 Cat Litter 3 Rabbit & Bird Food 3 Supplies for all Small Animals 3 D ry Mixers 3 Puppy Food an d much more available at competitive pnces For information and free sample, contact your local agent: Wendy & Roy Rudkin.

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SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE David Warnes B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S.

Shaw Village Centre Ramleaze Drive, Shaw Swindon SN5 9PY

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Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 2pm - 4pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 11am -12.30pm, 2pm - 4pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm

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AT YOUR LIBRARY

15

Getting ready for the summer break The long summer holidays will soon be upon us, bringing the age old problem of how to keep the children occupied and amused writes Robert Cotterill. Why not explore your local library and find out Made to what is on offer?

Swindon libraries not only have three years upwards can join the West Swindon Library is still swags, & tails. a great selection of story books, reading safari game, collecting a looking for volunteers to listen to All other valances, information and hobby books, series of colourful cards for read- children talk about the books they R-blinds, London, etc. story tapes and videos for hire but ing different books and getting an have read. If you can spare a few Free measuring & quotations have planned a programme of in- invitation to a party in September. hours, contact the library on 463238.

Full fitting service available teresting activities over the sum- This free game will operate in all On Wednesday 11 August the Handmade footstools to order mer. libraries from 24 July to 4 Septem- Jack Stephen magic show appears Re-upholstery of dining chairs etc.

For instance all children from ber. at the Central Library at 11.30am and at West Swindon Library at New adult fiction 1.30pm. Tickets, at £1.50 each, are Virginia Andrews Runaways In Ann Granger Beneath These stones available at the libraries in advance. the grim foster home run by Louise Young Tammy Franklin has learnt Places are limited, so book early.

1 Apsley House Arcade, Wootton Bassett, and Gordon Tooey, at least Brooke, too much about death too quickly: Crystal, Raven and Butterfly had her mother's after a lingering illeach other. Together they could ness and, now, 20 months later, dream of a new chance .. a real her stepmother. But this time the REATIVE CURTAINS home. Then they discover a secret death is murder and as SuperinThe complete service from ideas to hanging, even more haunting than Gordon's tendent Markby is all too aware, all at affordable prices heavy boots pounding on the Tammy also stands to have her Hand made curtains, Roman blinds, father taken from her ... wooden floors. quilted bed covers, Austrian blinds, cushions etc.

Patricia Cornwall Black Notice In a Iris Gower Sweet Rosie When Watt cargo ship arriving at Virginia's Bevan, manager of Mainwaring For a free estimate ring Christine on 01793 875869 Deep Water Terminal from Bel- Pottery, comes to Rosie's 17th gium, is discovered a locked, birthday party she realises he is NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER sealed container holding the re- the only man she will ever love.

CONTACT: mains of a stowaway. The initial Watt, however, unaware of Rosie's postmortem performed by feelings is increasingly drawn into Scarpetta is inconclusive, but the the problems facing the pottery victim's personal effects cause her owner, Llinos Mainwaring. (ConKinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water 24 hours ; .— tinuing the Firebird Series) to fly to Interpol Headquarters. a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled. \ 1 /` Paul Doherty The Field of Blood Chris Ryan Tenth Man Down The Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered.

Brother Athelstan hunts a danger- SAS versus US Navy Seals. Geor260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172 ous killer after the discovery of die Sharp's team is training govthree savagely murdered bodies. ernment forces in a Central AfriTwo of the victims surprised an can republic racked by civil war. assassin but who was the third The rebel forces are being led by victim and why go to so much ex-members of the US military elite. trouble to kill him?

SWINDONSOFWATER

Books on Wheels spreads

Library investment criticised

The library service for housebound people is now available to people right across Swindon.

Organiser Joanne Richardson had such a good response from an appeal for volunteers in the December Link, that the restricted service is now expanding. "I was very pleased by the publicity," she said. "It means we can now cover the whole borough."

Much more than books are available to users. A Books on Wheels delivery can include story cassettes, jigsaw puzzles and some videos from the library collection.

Items are brought by volunteers who work in pairs and have been referenced checked by the WRVS. Visits take place every three weeks. Volunteers aim to befriend users and there is always time to chat about the kind of material they would like delivered next time.

If you are housebound and have no one else to visit the library on your behalf, call 464495 for details on how Books on Wheels can bring the library to you.

A £15,000 report by external consultants for Swindon Borough Council has come up with the blunt assessment that there has been massive under investment in the library service, and the facilities in Swindon are poor.

There are currently 16 libraries across Swindon, plus two mobiles, and 70,000 active users.

Spending is fifteen per cent less than the average for unitary authorities in England. Some £900,000 needs to be spent to modernise and upgrade the service.

Seventy six recommendations are made including adoption of new services such as internet access, homework clubs and cafes.

The town centre library, housed in temporary buildings for well over thirty years, is described as 'arguably the worst central libary for a town of its size in the UK.' The report recognises that staff provide an excellent service under difficult conditions.

However no immediate action is possible due to lack of money.

F es,

LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER A wide range of issues to report on

16

Julia Drown Labour MP for South Swindon writes

LeSS

than ÂŁ44 per month

Annual long stay permits now available for Bristol Street car park

Close to the town centre, railway station & designer outlet village Contact: Lesley Golsby GWCE Properties on Swindon (01793) 616333

The return of the refugees The situation in Kosovo continues to be very much in everyone's minds. I am relieved that President Milosovic finally saw sense and ordered a withdrawal of Serbian troops.

The situation will continue to be risky and difficult as the peacekeeping forces help the refugees return to their homeland. They would not have had this chance without the determined effort of governments like ours, which refused to stand by while the Kosovars lives were destroyed.

Fire station visit I was very pleased that George Howarth, the Home Office minister responsible for the Fire Service, accepted my invitation to visit Westlea Fire Station.

Wiltshire Fire Service is a leading player in promoting the installation of sprinklers in homes and we have one of the few demonstration houses fitted with them. The minister saw for himself just how quick and effective sprinklers are: a chair was set alight and within moments the sprinklers were activated and extinguished the fire, minimising damage to the rest of the house.

The demonstration clearly showed they can help to save property and lives. I am supporting the brigade in its ongoing campaign to get the value of sprinklers in Congratulations to Julia Drown and homes more widely recognised. her partner Bill Child who have announced that she is expecting a baby Fighting pollution in November. Sadly they lost their At Westminster, the Environment first child Ruby within afew hours of minister, Michael Meacher MP, her birth on 6 August 1998. announced a new weapon to fight

GM food My mailbag continues to show that genetically modified foods and We strip your crops are a big issue of concern for many people in Swindon. I was old doors and pleased, therefore, to have the oppine furniture portunity to raise this important back to natural issue in the House of Commons. wood.

In my speech I talked about the So throw away your hot air guns concerns thathavebeen raised over and let us do the hard work. the trial site near Swindon. I pointed out that at this stage, few NO JOB TOO SMALL (Photo: Calyx Multimedia Swindon) industrial pollution - the EnvironGive us a ring today for a quote categorical claims can be made for safeguards the Government has ment Agency's new Pollution Inor against the safety of GM crops Free collection and delivery and foods because more research recently introduced, but I stressed ventory. This provides details 01793 772657 is needed. I welcomed the extra that more needs to be done to as- of those companies that are most Mobile 07771 801266 sure the public that the Govern- likely to pollute.

Members of the public can acment's top priorities are health and the protection of the environment. cess local information on pollution PHILIP STONE I also argued that a key ques- @ www.environmentagency.gov.uk WLIAMS V tion, which has not featured & VIDEO enough in debates on the GM is- Energy efficiency sue, is whether or not we need GM In another important initiative, the Specialists in repairs foods at all. The public seems far Government has taken action to of TVs, videos, from convinced of the case for GM reduce the 30,000 unnecessary For a high standard foods, and is demonstrating its deaths in the UK each winter satelite, microwaves, scepticism by opting increasingly deaths that are partly caused by of work audio equipment & for organic foods. The success of people not able to afford to heat References available in car hi-fi's. organic farming shows that there their homes adequately. The Govis a clear and increasing market for ernment has set up a new Home Free estimates Telephone now for a organic food, which contrasts Energy Efficiency Scheme, which FREE ESTIMATE 30A COUNTY ROAD, SWINDON starkly with the lack of demand will provide ÂŁ300million to help those most in need to insulate their for GM foods.

Tel: 870515 or homes.

I: 01793 423371 benefits for carers Mobile 0374 - 208527 Mobile 0976 752073 Welfare At the end of April I was pleased to Contact point welcome a constituent, Carole Rose If you would like to get in touch from Eastleaze, to the House of with me on any issue then please Commons for a meeting with the write to me at 39 Victoria Road, Secretary of State for Social Secu- Swindon SN1 3AT, or contact my office by ordinary phone or rity, Alistair Darling.

The meeting was to discuss the textphone on Swindon 615444. effects of the Government's benefits reforms on people like Carole Meet your MP who are full-time carers for their Julia Drown Labour MP disabled relatives. Carole was concerned that the Government for South Swindon Temple House, 115/118 Commercial Road, Swindon wanted to force her into paid work holds a surgery at Tel: (01793) 522688 Fax: (01793) 513812 as well as continue with her caring Holy Trinity Church, responsibilities.

Shaw Village Centre Wills & Probate Conveyancing Leases & Tenancies I was pleased that Alistair Daron Friday 9 July, Business & Company Matters Debt Recovery ling was able to explain that this 6pm to 7.3apm. would not happen and that the Matrimonial and Family Law General Litigation Call 615444 for an appointment Government wants to support + Experienced Efficient Effective + or turn up to meet her. carers like her.

PAINTER & DECORATOR

Winton Raynes & Co SOLICITORS

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • July 1999

School reorganises to meet demand

Private Tuition

With over 320 children preparing to enter Hreod Parkway School - its biggest ever intake - some parents have expressed fears that it will not cope.

But headteacher Andrew Fleet has given assurances that a major reorganisation is taking place to ensure the school is ready to cater for families from Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park, Abbey Meads, Rodbourne Cheney, Moredon and parts of Even Swindon.

Since becoming head two years ago Mr Fleet and his staff have reviewed all aspects of the school and recreated its structure.

New teachers have been appointed, including a Director of Lower School, and there are plans to add a pastoral care worker to the staff team.

In September, fourteen new classrooms, a new ceramics room, four new science laboratories, a new multi-purpose gym and staffroom will be ready.

The timetable has been rewritten to reduce pupil movement between the upper and lower school sites.

The autumn term will see the introduction of a new uniform of navy sweatshirt and white logo. It reflects the schools modern forward thinking and new policies.

"We must ensure that our curriculum and teaching strategies are fully meeting the needs of all our youngsters. That's a tall order when there are 1,300 pupils ranging from the most able to those who struggle to learn. We must have high expectations of our pupils and need to work with parents Andy Russell, head of special needs at to support each child."

Greendown, who will be head of lower During the next year he hopes school at Hreod in September plans can be laid for a permanent Mr Fleet admitted it has been a extension to the buildings to meet very busy year. "We've had to the school's rising roll. plan at a rapid speed to make the changes necessary for growth.

We've moved from a house to a year system, expanded our core management team, refurbished edlucatioN... classrooms and re-designated our two sites." justice...

He is under no illusions that there is still a big agenda ahead.

17

Vin all subjects & levels

• Key Stages 1-4 • GCSE & A Level • Special Needs Call

Personal Tutorials

New

teachers 01672 539368 also wanted 01793 538730

accommodation... beNefits... family.., health... money... sport... leisure... traiNiNg...

` ►ND ALL THE BITS IN BETWEEN T2 ZED Peatmoor kids gather

Children in years 1 to 6 who will be starting at the new Peatmoor primary school in September meet their new teachers at an induction session on 5 July at Brook Field School. Parents will also be able to purchase school uniform.

New governors needed For details on the new school, The Ridgeway School, Wroughcall the headteacher Mrs Peacock ton, as a Foundation School, is on 463124. looking for nominations for partnership governors.

Partnership governors must be New youth advice members of the community served at Link Centre by the school. Parents of pupils at the school, people employed at the A team of youth workers are school, elected members or em- launching a series of advice sesployees of the Swindon LEA are sions for young people in The Mall at the Link Centre at the following not eligible.

Nomination forms, to be re- times: 3.30pm - 5.30pm; turned by Wednesday 7 July, are Monday 6pm - 8pm available from the Clerk to the Gov3.30pm - 5.30pm ernors, The Ridgeway School, Tuesday Inverary Road, Wroughton, Swin- Wednesday 6pm - 8pm don SN4 9DJ. Telephone: 812824. Thursday 3.30pm - 5.30pm Nominations will be considered Advice can be gained on any issue by governors at their July meeting. of concern.

Cookery Farm trail Pirates Fishing Mountain bike trails Races Go cart Swimming Trampolining High jump Water slide Football Sweet making Tug of war Kites Cycling THE Scavenger hunts Roller skatin Nature trails Treasure hunts 71311G Team games Painting The Big Adventure Club Skateboarding Tennis Open 9am - 6pm during the Bouncy castle Woodwork school holidays for 5 to 11 year olds Badminton Mini Olympics

Computer database available to search for answers locally and nationally, plus internet access @

The Youth Unit, Link Centre Drop in or make an appointment or call Jo Marchment on 465466 for details

swinoon

S UPERGLIDE

* Superb sliding door wardrobes all made tomeasure in our workshops * Door panels in laminates, real wood veneers, mirro * We can also supply and install: fitted kitchens & bedroom furniture * Over 40 finishes available * Agents for Hideaway wall beds

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Nursery vacancies

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required for young foreign students a tt ending English language courses in Swindon Six day programme arranged Good remuneration

I \Q

r

Cat

7jA

Music and movement for the under fives

Host Families

Please contact Nita Ma rt in on (01672) 539368 or (01672) 539561 for details

CP.:t^^ Ply

^

18 The Link Magazine • July 1999

Songs, nursery rhymes, old and new

Every Thursday morning from 29th July to 2nd September For more details and prices, telephone 701104

-

NEW FOR ':

1999

MONKEY MAYHEM'S CHILDREN'S PARTY SUPPLIES Disposable tableware with matching invites, lootbags and fillers, badges, banners, food boxes, balloons and gi ft s.

Co-ordinating gift-wrap and party games: Barbie, Bugs Life, Thomas the Tank, Winnie the Pooh & Barney to name a few.

All tableware sold separately, only need to buy as much as you need All cups come with a FREE lid and bendy straw

Phone now for your FREE colour catalogue on (01793) 433998 or 497551 or 0410 150644 - `Adult and childrens bouncy castle hire available )

Giving Your Child The Best In Quality Education 4 L

Th

oved and Lea

Ridgeway Pre-School Inverary Road, Wroughton

Quality education and childcare for 24 months to 5 years Open 50 weeks a year, 8am-6pm Full range of schedules available Qualified teachers following the nursery n n outcomes for learning

The nursery at Salt Way School, Middleleaze has a limited number of vacancies for children born between September 1995 and August 1996.

The places are free and are for four afternoons a week, from 1pm to 3.15pm. There is no geographical limit on attendance.

For more information, call Salt Way School before the end of term on 881065.

Holiday music club for tots Musical Tots, a holiday music and singing club for under fives runs at the Haydon Wick Centre every Thursday from 29 July to 2 September.

Each lessons lasts 45 minutes and will cater for 15 children, with parents. The aim is to give toddlers a fun introduction to music through songs, nursery rhymes, movement, dance and sound games.

There will be sessions for I to 2 year olds, 2 to 3 year olds and 3 to 5 year olds. Each lessons lasts 45 minutes and will cater for 15 children. The emphasis is on fun and informality with an educational element, covering subjects as wide as a day at the farm to numbers and colours. Parent and child interaction is one of the key points to the enjoyment of each session The fee is £18 for 6 lessons, payable in advance. For more information call Mrs Alison Randall on 701104. Parties for under fives are also undertaken.

•

(•

^

Summer Fete Friday 2 July, 6pm - 9pm St Mary's RC Primary School Bessemer Road East Football tournament, disco, Irish dancers, live music, grand raffle, tombola, face painting and more Admission 20p Woodlands Kinderga rt en Summer Fete Saturday 17 July, 1pm - 4pm Roughmoor Social Hall, Swinley Drive, Peatmoor Lots of fun including bouncy castle and face painting Summer Fayre 'Days Gone By' Brook Field School Friday 9 July, 6pm Stalls and attractions with a 1940s theme through to the 90s - donkey rides, coconut shy, face painting, plants, toys, books, strawberries and cream Stalls: £5 or 10% of takings Call 871784 to book

SEE SAW Toys West Crudwell Farm Tuners Lane, Crudwell, Nr Malmesbu ry Stockists of TP Activity Toys Climbing frames, swings, slides, football goals, tractors, garden games and

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The Link Magazine • Jul y 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

19

Sabrina seeks sponsorship to satisfy Olympic dream A young ice skater from Westlea is showing great promise and has sent letters to Swindon's companies appealing for help.

Thirteen year old Sabrina Shiekh recently claimed the bronze medal at the British Novice Championships. She is determined that this is just a first step towards gold at the British Ladies Championships and a place in the Olympic team.

But the cost of skating is proving more than her family can support.

Already her parents, Sue and Qahir, are having to find £6,00 a year. This will increase to £10,000 as Sabrina develops and competes at a higher level. Coaching and the Sabrina with her mum Sue, who makes her dresses designed by sister Yasmin

cost of competitions will absorb up to £6,000. Boots alone cost her £700 and costumes, even though made by Sue, add up to between £600 and £800.

If the financial cost is high, this is matched by Sabrina's dedication. She trains at the Link Centre each day before school, from 5am to Sam. Off-ice fitness training takes up another 7 hours a week.

To achieve this and maintain high academic grades takes considerable discipline.

Coaches Lesley Norfolk Pearce

Are you a sports

!^

YOUR NEAREST CLASS

?

The swindonlink.com web site is providing space on the internet, free of charge, to Swindon sports people showing promise so that they can describe their prospects and also appeal for sponsors.

It's also available to teams.

If you are pursuing a spo rt or know somebody who should be on the site, call (01793) 872282 to discuss how to getthem online @ swindonlink.com

Monday: 5.45pm & 8.00pm & Thursday: 7.00pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick.

Nicole, 338786 Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny, 613423 Thursday: 7.00pm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Rd. Jenny, 613423

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury

and Natasha Larkin are particu-

larly impressed by Sabrina's natural artistic manner. They believe she has the potential to reach the top and are frustrated by the lack of support for young British sportsmen and women.

Sabrina's next goal is qualification for the British Primary Championships. "I have worked hard

for over six years to get this far," says Sabrina. "But only with adequate sponsorship will I be able to be a serious competitor and realise my Olympic ambitions."

Clinic BE SLIM! BE FIT!

Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP

Shape up and slim down by combining a >ensible low-fat eating plan with exercise Classes in West Swindon and Wootton Bassett

Chartered Physiotherapist

Contact Wendy on (01793) 877750 Membership fee £5.80 • Class fee £4.15 Exercise-only £3.15 (no membership fee)

Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703

Booking advisable

60 High Street Wootton Bassett

Soccer team looks for new manager

ber]e , iJ1timate" *Top To Toe* Workouts now available in your area Monday 8 to 9pm Westlea Prima ry School, Langstone Way Tuesday 7 to 8pm Eve ry body's Gym, Hillmead Industrial Estate Wednesday 7.30 to 8.30pm Churchfields School, Salcombe Grove Thursday 8.15 to 9.15pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Sunday 10.30 to 11.30am Upper Shaw Community Centre, Ridge Green A friendly fun class (with no jogging) suitable for all levels

Any queries call 01793 726659 Qualified experienced Fitness Instructor STILL Only £3.00 per session

I

West Swindon Football Club is looking for an experienced manager to follow Andy Smith who took the club to third position in the Skurrays Wiltshire League Junior Division One. For further details contact Andy on 870357 or Phil Bathe on 875556.

DIANA RICHARDSON

MIFHB IHBC IIHHT

Mobile Aromatherapist & Beauty Therapist

Telephone: 01793 695185

Q.

1

Lifestyle guru holds Oasis day Famed diet and fitness motivator Rosemary Conley attends a roadshow at the Oasis Leisure Centre on 6 August.

An author of many books on fitness and founder of the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs, she will be sharing her personal motivational tips and techniques for successful slimming and a healthy lifestyle.

Participants will receive good practical health and beauty advice and there will be two workouts designed to boost metabolism, burn fat and tone up muscles.

Tickets at £25 (£22 for club members) includes lunch, T-shirt and a goody bag with a special edition of the Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Magazine.

Wendy Cole, who runs clubs in and around West Swindon, has more information about the day.

Call her on 877750.

* Go karting * Cardiff Exploratory - trip * Star gazing overnight * Camps - swimming gala * Fencing

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*Base Camps intensive coaching days, football, cricket, swimming, * Cheddar Caves - trip intro to synchro * Treasure Island * Activity Camp for inflatable 8yrs-12yrs, Mon * Crash courses Fri, 9.30 - 3.30 swimming, tennis, * Mini Camp for trampolining, 5yrs-7yrs, snorkelling, Rookie Mon - Fri, 9.30 - 3.30 lifeguarding, dance, * Malmesbury - open Tae Kwon Do air pool trip * Lydiard Park - mystery treasure hunt trip „ ,L

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20

The Link Magazine • July 1999

e

Sin g rid Slim!

Luxurious Velvet -

Family fun run in July

Nail

Swindon Council's Lifestyle Development team is organising a family fun run of one and a half miles and a 5k run on Wednesday 14 July.

The runs start from Faringdon Road Park and will have marshalled routes, official time keepers, paramedics and prizes.

Fun run: start 6.30pm. Child £1, adult £2.50, minimum age 5 years.

5k road race: start 7pm. £4.50, minimum age 13 years.

For an entry form and further details call 617782/511033.

No entries will be accepted on the day. Last postal entry 2 July, last in person entry 9 July.

Extensi £30.0 Infills, Wraps,N 'ilJ

Airbrushing and N tlY(i

Chocolate

the ready to drink

Camb ri dge Diet.

\ TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS USED

Manicures & Pedicures

Tempted?

Veronika

'Phone your Cambridge Diet Counsellor on 873201

01793 702909

or 07887 510409

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

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

Appointments Shaw Chiropractic i

i ow available at:

t

4

Telephones OBI

r

H.t 4A Aromatherapy, Massa g

we

l e t

LIC,ISC.IVLDNCL.

and Sports Therapy tr

•

•

Jfi also available.

Holiday mini-soccer

Roves Farm opens for holidays

This popular farm near Highworth has at last won its battle with Swindon Borough Council Planning Department and will reopen for the summer holidays.

Roves Farm will be open from Wednesday 28 July to Sunday 5 September inclusive, Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 5pm.

M an y of the animals can be cuddled and stroked, and help is needed to bottle feed the goats and lambs throughout each day.

There are several indoor and outdoor play areas for all age groups, farm trails taking you past ponds, Local football coach Paul Mutlow, woods, and a wetland, picnic arabove, runs a four day soccer star eas and tearooms.

The farm is a great place for skills course at Freshbrook School from Monday 9 August to Thurs- children's birthday parties and as a result of its planning appeal is reday 12 August, 9am to 3.30pm.

Early booking is advised as building its popular ba rn dance places are limited. For details, call and wedding facili ti es. To find Paul on 871464. Price: £25. out more, call 763939.

you relax

The De Vere Swindon

D

The new name in residential property management and lettings

proudly preseri

Home Choice (formerly Leading Agencies, Swindon) is a strong competitor in this growing market, with over 100 rental properties in and around the Swindon area. They vary from small studio apartments to large rural country houses. Some 50% of the properties are to be found in West Swindon.

A small local company committed to high standards Home Choice is proud to be linked with the Private Business Ombudsman and the UK Association of Letting Agents. Membership is purely voluntary, but members are vetted. It proves that Home Choice is dedicated to providing the best possible service to its clients.

"We offer our tenants and landlords peace of mind knowing that we will look after any problems they may have as quickly and skilfully as possible," says Home Choice owner Sue Gidney.

"Our landlords have the extra assurance that we carry out extensive referencing prior to the commencement of any tenancy. We also take on as much (or as little) of the landlord's responsibility as he wants, from drawing up tenancy agreements to rent collection, right through to full management. Three monthly checks are standard."

If you would like any further information, particularly if you are conside ring purchasing a property for rental purposes, please contact Sue Gidney at Home Choice on 01793 431725

Interpretations as The Carpenters E 7.30pm for 8.00pm ^ ^^ Three

Course Cabaret

Dinry

Late Bar Disco un 1am^ £22.50 p ° rson To make your` reservation, call 01793

fl

21

Buy or sell at

/ L

WEAR IT WELL For choice, quality and low priced garments for A any occasion,visit Wiltshire's largest as new clothing agency with the great reputation

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

Win tickets to the Party in the Park

__

__ r •

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A change of line-up for the Wiltshire Festival Pa rt y in the Park was announced just as we went to press last month,with E17 being brought in to replace ABC. As a result the show in Lydiard Park on Saturday 21 August will be better than expected.

E17 join performers from the 70s, 80s and 90s including 1000, Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet, top boy band 911, along with chart acts Honyz, Cleopatra and Kele LeRoc. Organiser Andy Cotton said the party will be even more fun with the new booking. "The line-up for the Party in the Park is stronger than ever; it's going to be a great show."

tww^.y & STORAGE

3lifrz 141

Tickets cost £19 plus booking fee from 07050 677536, or in person from the Oasis and Link leisure centres and the Swindon Tourist Information Centre.

Party on with a pair of tickets We have five pairs of competition tickets. All you have to do is answer the following questions: 1. Where does the Party in the Park take place?

2. Name one act appearing at the Party from each of the last three decades - 70.s 80s. 90s.

3. Where is the Wiltshire Festival website?

Send your entries to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 17 July.

ANYTIME ANYPLACE ANYWHERE

WHO GIVES THE VERY BEST SERVICE HE CAN LARGE OR SMALL - WE MOVE IT ALL

*Commercial or domestic *Single items to a full house *Storage *6 different size vans * House clearances undertaken.

Tel: 01793 772888

..

Music & fireworks spectacular The annual Fireworks & Laser Symphony Concert at Bowood House, near Caine on Saturday 14 August, is always huge fun, combining great music and spectacular aerial ente rt ainment. And we have a pair of tickets to give away in an easy competition.

Over 5,000 people will enjoy their picnics in the grounds between the house and the lake, before the Performing Arts Symphony Orchestra strikes up under the baton of Nicholas Smith.

The first half of the evening, sta rt ing at 8pm, features a varied selection of timeless classics such as Khachaturian's Sabre Dance, the Suite from Swan Lake. and Strauss' Emperor Waltz.

As darkness blankets Bowood's sloping lawns for the second half of the evening, the night sky will explode in a magical mix of fireworks, lasers and choreographed multi-coloured fountains.

Mussorgsky's Great Gate of Kiev opens the laser symphony concert and the finale of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture will be awesome.

Tickets for this spell binding evening cost E19 for adults and £10 for children. There are group rates available.

To book, call the Performing Arts ticket hotline on 01625 560000.

/Am

A

Wroughton Airfield - Swindon - Wiltshire - -

31st July& 7 st August Gates Open 10am to 5pm A brilliant dap out for the whole family

Over 1,500 Vintage/Classic Vehicles - Cars, Commercials, Ex-Military, Tractors, M/cycles, Steam & Stationa ry Engines, Historic Caravans, plus Exhibits of Models, & Bygones.

Antique & Collectors, Toy & Train Fair, Automobilia, Autojumble, Craft & Trade stalls. Old Tyme Fair, Organs, Helicopter Rides, Trips in Vintage Buses, Silver Band, Street Ente rt ainers, Arena Events, catering/bar facilities plus many other attractions.

Win tickets to the Bowood concert We have a pair of tickets to give away. Send your answers to the following questions to: The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 17 July.

Who will be the conductor at the Fireworks & Laser Symphony spectacular?

Where does the event take place?

What is the name of the orchestra for the evening?

Entrance: Adults £5.00 Price ix, udes museum entry Si rompanyf-9 Under 14's Free

^

L.

As the year 2000 last approaches it is time to look back at the evolution of Transport & Science. This is a rare opportuni ty to visit the Science Museum's unique collection of Historic Road Transport, Aircraft, Ag ri cultural, Firefighting and Space Technology which forms an extensive portion of the National Collections.

Show site is situated on A4361 -4 miles from Swindon Town Centre M4 - Exit Junc.15 from the East M4- Exit Junc.16 from the West Follow the signs for the Science Museum'

All Enq: Regal Fairs - 01242 577853 or Mobile 0411 905510, 0850 300636 The Organisers wi ll not be held responsible for cancellation of any attractions.

22

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ July 1999

The Voice of an Angel fits in Swindon between the Queen and the President

IAM ON LEVISIO For friendly and professional service to TVs, Videos, Audio and Hi-Fi, Satellite systems & Computer monitors,

call 01793 497591 Workshop at 15/15a Rodbourne Road, Swindon

Taking time out from exam revision during half term, thirteen year old Welsh soprano sensation Charlotte Church gave the Swindon media a hint of what is to come at this year's Wiltshire Festival Classical Extravaganza on Friday 20 August.

Her visit to the De Vere Hotel on 2 June to promote her Swindon

appearance was the first after singing for the Queen and Prince Charles at the opening of the Welsh

assembly in late May. And it was the last before Char-

lotte would sing at a gala concert in Washington after taking tea with Bill and Hilary Clinton at the White House on 12 June.

Combining an incredibly powerful voice and a delightful personality that belies her young age. Charlotte easily showed why her first album 'Voice of an Angel' shot to the top of the classical charts.

And for three West Swindon youngsters it was a dream come true to meet her. The Link arranged for Greendown School year 7 students Natalie Hughes and

Heather Stewart, and Rosemary Ogle, 17, to ask Charlotte questions at the media gathering.

IMPORTANT DECISIONS REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

Show. She is also asked to reel off the famous people she has met, and describe her ambition to sing

Tosca at La Scala in Milan.

Natalie asked Charlotte how her friends treat her nowadays. "I have some good friends and they look after me because I'm out of school a lot. They keep me in touch with the gossip." " We do normal things like everybody else. Last Saturday I went to a sleep over and we were outside in their close until one in the morn-

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We give an e ff icient fully computerised service

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Tel: 01793) 617617

Fax: (01793) 511249

More business walks through your door with a

C ITIMAP 1L SwmnOn Swindon Town Centre Management in partnership with Citimap are producing a edition of the Map & Guide to Swindon.

The aim of the Guide is to promote businesses in Swindon and to show why Swindon is a special place to visit, shop and work in.

For more information and for promotional opportunities please contact: Jon Milne on 0171 821 8088.

Please quote reference SW2.

Charlotte Church with from left, Rosema ry Ogle.

Natalie Hughes and Heather Stewa rt

She assured the girls that although visiting America four times now, Japan, singing for the Pope and meeting the Spice Girls, Boyzone and George Michael, she still feels an ordinary person and is not treated differently by her friends or teachers. "I tried to get out of games on the morning I was to sing for the Queen, but it was no excuse; I still had to run the 1500 metres," she said. " On my way up to Swindon I was revising my music composition for school exams."

She told Heather that the travelli ng around the world was hard but her mother Maria looks after her and makes sure that she gets enough rest.

"I love the singing and meeting so many different people, but the i interviews can be difficult because

the questions are the same. I always try to answer with a smile; keep reminding myself how lucky I am and I want to give my best."

She is constantly asked to de-

scribe how she has always wanted to be a performer, from singing

karaoke at a holiday camp aged three and a half, to being invited onto the Richard & Judy show after singing Pie Jesu down the 'phone,

to an appearance on the Big Talent

ing. The next day we went to the Oakwood adventure park where was persuaded to go on a rollercoaster which was terrifying."

Afterwards Natalie said, "she is really down to earth and very friendly. She was so warm answering the same questions for the TV all the time."

Heatherwas impressed byCharlotte's composure. "She wasn't nervous at all; she takes everything in her stride."

Discover the talents of Charlotte Church at the Wiltshire Festival Classical Extravaganza on 20 August with the English Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Jae Alexander Aerial accompanimentfrom a World War II Spitfire to Ron Goodwin's Battle of Britain march Bethan Dudley will lead the 'Last Night of the Proms' finale complete with fireworks.

Tickets cost ÂŁ18 plus booking fee from 07050 677536 or over the

counter at the Oasis or Link Leisure Centres and the Swindon Tourist Information Centre.

sa^c

Jazz takes over

Win tickets for two Longleat concerts

Marlborough

Michael Ball, Britain's leading musical star and the Variety Club of Great Britain best recording artist of 1998, takes centre stage at an outdoor spectacular in Longleat Park, south Wiltshire on 31 July.

The annual Marlborough Jazz Festival draws together artistes from around the world to show off their talents on three days of great music on 16 to 18 July.

On Friday evening, n there is traditional jazz - 7 from Tommy Burton and Spats Dillinger through to the cajun style of the Netti Vaandrager Trio, and the Township Express from South Africa.

On Saturday 17 July, over 40 bands takeover every venue in the town with performances by a varied line-up which includes the legendary Georgie Fame, Geno Washington and Bob Hall.

The Jools Holland Big Band on Sunday 18 July is virtually sold out.

A Rover pass for Friday night at £8 gains access to all events. A Saturday Rover costs £16 (£14 in advance.)

A pass for both days costs £20.

Call 01672515095 for a full jazz festival programme.

He has starred on Broadway and dominated the West End for more than a decade. All Michael's seven solo albums have commanded high positions in the UK charts and his latest 'The Movies' has sold in excess of 300,000.

On 14 August Longleat hosts the Midland Symphony Orchestra for a night of popular classics, including a traditional last night of the proms finale with fireworks bursting over the stately home.

A

Pro c sing G

Wedding, po rt rait and environmental photography a speciality

FREE KODAK FILM with next day development. £1 off the cost of each film on production of this adve rt Passpo rt pictures while you wait 2 Apsley House, High Street, Wootton Basse tt .

Tel: 01793 854076

Competition

Promoters JPR Concerts have provided us with two pairs of tickets for both concerts.

To win a pair, all you have to do is send answers to the questions below to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 17 July. (Please indicate if you have a preference for a particular concert) 1. Name the star of the Longleat concert on 31 July Win a Rover pass 2. How many solo albums has he Send your name and address by recorded?

12 July to The Link, Papermakers Who are the promoters of the 3.

House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 concerts at Longleat?

7BD to be entered in our Marlborough Jazz Festival Friday Rover 4. Who are the soloists at the 14 August concert?

Pass prize draw.

23

de

June competition winners Five pairs of tickets to the Wiltshire Festival Classical Extravaganza

Mrs L Beeson, Chandos Close, Grange Park; Mrs E Morton, Bruce Street, Rodbourne; Mr G Libby, Springhill Close, Westlea; Mrs M Austin, Arley Close, Abbey Meads; Ms N Hughes, Jewel Close, Grange Park

Graham McCallion PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIA

Fourpairs of tickets to Twelfth Night at Lydiard Park

Mr M Roberts, Smitan Brook, Covingham; Miss P Smith, Godolphin Close, Freshbrook; Mrs F Holness, Radcot Close, Nine Elms; Mrs C Nutwood, Old Shaw

151 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

LONGLEAT FIREWORK & PICNIC CONCERTS, 1999 JPR Concerts Ltd. in association with Phil Bowdery

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N _ CHAEL L BALL IN CONCERT

Last Night at ie Proms lain Sutherland Conductor

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SATURDAY 14th AUGUST 1999, 7.30 pm Gates Open 5.00 pm Bring a p€cnric!

THE MIDLAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Conductor lain Sutherland John Reid VIOLIN • Ruth Theobald CONTRALTO Programme

By Post SAE Cheques payable to JPR Concerts Ltd., 24a St.Ma ry s St., Newport, Shropshire. TF10 7AB E-mail: tickets@jprconce rt s.co.uk Website h tt p://www.jprconce rt s.co.uk/ In person from:Longleat Warminster, Wiltshire BAl2 7NN. 01985 844400 (AccessNisa). Tickets Bath P.O. Box 1687, Bath BA1 7YB. 01225 859530; Tickets Our Price 20-21 The Galleries, Bristol BS1 3XX. 01179 299008 A small charge will be made for credit card bookings.

Suppe Overture Morning, Noon and Night in Vienna 0 Strauss Waltz 'Blue Danube' 9 Ponchielli Dance of The Hours from 'La Gioconda' 0 RimskyKorsakov Flight of the Bumble Bee 0 Vivaldi Selection from 'The Four Seasons', Soloist JOHN REID I Tchaikovsky Marche Slave 0 Fucik The Entrance of The Gladiators * Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody No. 21 O ff enbach Overture 'Orpheus in the Underworld' 0 Parry Jerusalem, Soloist RUTH THEOBALD 0 Arne Rule Britannia, Soloist RUTH THEOBALD 0 Traditional Sailors' Hornpipe • Elgar Pomp and Circumstance No. 1 - Land of Hope and Glory.

TRADITIONAL PROMS FINALE WITH FIREWORKS

By Post SAE Cheques made payable to JPR Conce rt s Ltd, 24a St.Ma ry s St., Newpo rt , Shropshire TF10 7AB E-mail ticketsejprconce rt s.co.uk Web site http://www.iprconcerts.co.uk/ Ticket outlets: Longleat 01985 844400: Bristol Tickets Our Price 01179299008; A JPR Concerts Ltd Promotion Tickets Bath 01225 859530.

Swindon Wide

24

kssdodrd Crafts For all your CROSS STITCH supplies Also tapestry & embroidery DMC stranded cotton in stock

18 Apsley House Arcade Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 848855

Discover • dGtth q ZJ'GPi

Old Town3 Felt 'a.i a a tfivoa jkout t/teye4v For the finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking and South East Asian Cuisine

Meet Fireman Sam at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway, Blunsdon Station

Sunday 18th July, 10.30am to 4pm SWINDON'S REAL RAILWAY

1Ije'otingbro egtaurant & gar Hook, Nr Wootton Basset Swindon Tel/Fax: (01793) 852357 Excellent beers & wholesome house wines For an evening meal in pleasant surroundings, try our own: Chicken Cognac Lamb Demerara r Salmon Citrus To name just a few of our special delights all freshly prepared at the Bolingbroke Sunday lunchtime roast Midweek lunchtime menu on request

Menu availa e on request Fully Licensed

53 Devizes Road Swindon Tel: (01793) 521515

Open: Tuesday to Sunday 12noon - 2.30pm; 7pm - 10.30pm Closed Monday

Thursday 1 July to Saturday 3 July.

Musical A Funny Thing Happened

Thursday 15 July to Saturday 17 July Musical Nunsense presented by

on the Way to the Forum, a classical farce set in Rome. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4.50

The Strolling Players. Arts Centre, Thurs & Fri, 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £5, book on 335531

Friday 2 July

Music Joe Brown with special guests The Bruvvers. Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50 Saturday 3 July Comedy Blaster Bates - an

evening of explosive humour.

Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9 Monday 5 July to

Sunday 18 July Country Fair and Motor Show.

Lydiard Park, 10am - 5pm Music Welcome to the World of Jim Reeves featuring Bob Hinton.

Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10 Friday 23 July Music Amadeus Orchestra. Wy-

Wednesday 7 July Drama Major Barbara by Bernard

vern, 7.30pm, £12

Shaw. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9

Music Jazz, Comedy & Mardi Gras. Burmah Castrol Bowl, Town Gardens, Old Town, 7.30pm. In advance: £6.50, under 16s £4.50; on the door: £8.50 & £5.50

Tuesday 6 July Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy

Club. Mackenzie's, Wood Street.

7.45pm. £5

Saturday 24 July

Thursday 8 July Ballet Giselle presented by Pav-

lov Ballet. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14 Friday 9 July & Saturday 10 July Comedy Roy Chubby Brown. Oa-

sis Leisure Centre, 7.30pm. £14.50 Saturday 10 July Workshop Golden Worlds, for ages 5-11. Make a 3D, stage set and poster of your golden world.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery.

2pm - 4pm. Book on 466556, £2 Music Latin and Salsa Night.

Burmah Castrol Bowl, Town Gardens, Old Town, lessons 6pm, performance 7.30pm. Tickets on the door: £8.50, under 16s £5.50 Saturday 10 July & Sunday 11 July Music Dans Connect Youth Gala-

Saturday 24 July & Sunday 25 July Drama Twelfth Night, above.

a celebration of youth culture.

Wyvern, Sat 8pm, Sun 6pm. £7

Lydiard Park, 7.30pm. £9.50, under 15s £5 (£8.50 & £4 if purchased before 16 July), tickets from Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. Tel: 463210

Sunday 11 July Open Day More In Store. Open

day at the Science Museum, Wroughton, 10am - 5pm. Adults £3, children free

Booking advisable for our 30 cover restaurant

Thursday 15 July to Saturday 17 July Dance & music Sullivan School

Small weddings, Christenings

of Dance goes 'Dancing around the World.' Wyvem, 7.30pm. From £6

Monday 26 July to Saturday 31 July Summer School Art and drama

for 8-14 yr olds, will include making stage sets, props and performing. Arts Centre, Mon to Fri, 1 Oam - 3.30pm, Sat 6.30pm - 8pm. £65

July overview

25

[.

Wyvern Theatre's Christmas pantomime, Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs, was launched on 30 June. Jacinta Stapleton (Amy Greenwood in Neighbours) heads the all-star cast

Monday 26 July to 31 August Quiz & trail Henry's Horses prize trail, suit 5-11 yr olds. Lydiard House, tel: 770401. £1.

Quiz & trail Smart Art, suit 5-11 yr olds. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, tel: 466556. Free Wednesday 28 July Workshop Funny Faces forages

5-11. Swindon Museum &Art Gallery. 2 - 4pm. Book on 466556, £2 Thursday 29 July Workshop Line Clear Ahead for ages 5-11. GWR Museum, 2 4pm. Book on 466555, £2

II

Film

All showing at the Wyvern Theatre, 7.45pm Thursday 1 July Tea with Mussolini (PG) With Cher, Judi Dench, Maggie Smith & Joan Plowright Sunday 4 July An Ideal Husband (PG) With Rupert Everett & Cate Blanchett Monday 12 July Message in a Bottle (12) Starring Kevin Costner Tuesday 13 July Central Station (15) Monday 19 July Beloved (15) Tuesday 20 July Waking Ned (PG) A charming comedy Wednesday 21 July The Honest Courtesan (15)

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The Science Museum Wroughton has

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More in Store on

Sunday I I th July 10.00am - 5.00pm

The ONLY day this year to peer

Festival Friday Rover

into our deep storage hangars.

Jazz Nomads 7.30pm The British Legion 8.00pm Neti Vaandrager Trio Bentley's Wine Bar The Township Express 9.00pm (Formerly known as ZILA) The Priory Gardens Marquee 9.30pm Tommy Burton Trio The British Legion Spats Dillinger 10.00pm Marlborough Town Hall

See the Russian space computer, the remote controlled underwater camera, a printing press - and so much more in store! An Aladdin's cave of science, technology and industry treasures.

• £8 for a Friday Rover gains access to all events on the Friday evening £16 buys a Saturday Rover (or £14 in advance), with 40 bands from noon till midnight. £20 buys you both

Details from 01672 515095

Our display hangars of aircra ft , cars, buses, tractors, radar and more will also be open.

Also: mystery object competition, children's activity sheets and bring a kite.

The Science Museum Wroughton is situated 15 minutes from Swindon town centre, off M4 junction 16- follow the signs to Wroughton and Science Museum.

For more information or for a copy of our events lea fl et, please call Maggie on 01793 814466 or write to us at the Science Museum Wroughton, Wroughton Airfield, Swindon SN4 9NS

26

The Link Magazine •

1999

Top drummer to rock a masterciass

Youth attacks on teenagers

Incidents of teenagers demanding money with menaces from other young people have been causing Steve White, below, one of the top increasing concern to West Swindon parents. And a youth centre has had to close because of threats of drummers on the rock scene with violence. It is thought that much of the behaviour and crime is drink or drugs related. the Paul Weller Band, demonA related problem of organised thieving, largely of A small but identifiable group of young people, strates his talents in a drum clinic both male and female, have been creating a culture of drink, from Asda is also being addressed by the at Greendown School on Sunday intimidation. The activities mainly take place around management.

11 July, 2pm.

Area policewoman WPC Pat Jones said the police the Link Centre where overgrown trees and bushes A limited number of tickets at provide cover, but The Link has had reports of attacks are investigating reports of intimidation and theft. £10 for the two hour masterclass and thefts in Freshbrook and Westlea.

"We want to ensure that people can move around the can be booked through Paul There have been complaints about young people community safely without fear. Weknowthenumber Ashman on 702948. hanging around the Link Centre for many years, but of people behaving in this unacceptable way is small itseemsthatagrowingdependenceondrugsamongst and we are trying to prevent further incidents by a few is reducing levels of responsibility and willing- maintaining a higher profile."

Because young people do not want to be identified ness to discuss their problems with workers from as victims, it is difficult to report the issue with facts support agencies or Link Centre security staff.

The Link Youth Unit has had to close because of and clear information.

If you have been subject to harassment, or you are unacceptable behaviour and intimidation towards other young users and staff. It will not reopen until a parent whose son or daughter has been attacked, and are willing to talk about it in confidence, please adequate security can be arranged.

Toothill councillor Peter Mallinson is adamant contact The Link on 872282.

Swindon police would also like to know on 528111. that the situation cannot be allowed to continue.

"This bad behaviour by a group of youths will not be Bike theft s at Link Centre tolerated. Stern action is being taken."

Another wave of cycle thefts around the West SwinHe is pressing the council to cut back undergrowth. don Centre appears to be taking place. Jan Halstead from Common Platt contacted The Link to say her son and two friends had their bikes stolen outside the Link Centre in early June, a haul totalling about £700.

West Swindon based Junction 16 Theatre Group will be performing Anton Chekhov's She recommends bike owners use two locks to classic drama of Russian country life Uncle Vanya. Performances of the bittersweet deter the professionals who seem to be in the area. comedy of lost opportunities and unrequited love take place in the Drama Studio at Correction Greendown School, Grange Park on 8 and 9 July at 7.30pm.

Junc ti on 16 is taking up the challenge of Uncle Vanya after a successful staging of Ibsen's In the June Link we implied that local election candidate Peter Mallinson had made claims about the difficult work A Doll's House last year.

Tickets, at £4 or £3 concessions, which include a glass of wine are available in advance provision of barriers on a footpath at Luddesdown Road, Toothill. He was not involved in the issue. from Sarah-Kate Bridgewater on 481956 or on the door.

Russian classic

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DS

The Link Magazine • July 1999

Lin's 50. Tell everybody!

When Lin Hancock told her husband and sons she did not want to be 50, and did not want anybody else to know either, they knew just what to do - announce the news to as many people as possible.

Having arranged for troupe of majorettes to march past her house on her fortieth birthday, Ivor knew it would take something extra special to mark the occasion.

Surprise number one came the night before her birthday, on 9 June. Ivor said "we took Lin out for a meal and when we got back friends had decorated the house."

On the morning of her birthday, after receiving 50 red roses and a giant greeting card from Ivor, son Paul drove an unsuspecting Lin to work. Wondering why cars kept sounding their horns at the car Lin later discovered a big sign tied to the back which read, 'my passenger is 50 today, beep your horn at her'.

When Lin arrived home from Lin and Ivor hear her birthday announced by the loudest voice in town work she was greeted by Town Crier, Fred Ferris who announced her birthday at the top of his voice, to the amusement of family, friends and gathering neighbours.

Meanwhile son Gary had been busy over the last six months arranging a surprise party for over 100 guests on 12 June.

"Mum didn't have a clue," he said. "We went out to dinner and on the way I told her I had to call into the Moonrakers to sort out my wedding arrangements. As we entered she was greeted by relatives, friends and ex-workmates, some of whom she hadn't seen for years."

As a special momento of the evening Ivor, Paul and Gary presented Lin with a scrapbook of the party and a picture board of her life.

Ivor said that Lin does so much for other people and is such a caring person that they decided it was time to give something back as a thank you. "Lin is vice chair of the Swindon Stroke Support Group, • she arranges outings and really gets involved. She definitely enjoys a good laugh."

Despite not wanting to be reminded of her mature age, Lin enjoyed all the surprises sprung on her. "I've had so many shocks in the last week; I had no idea that I Giant Gard tor every special occasio they were planning all these get The Giant Card Co. togethers. Ivor, Paul and Gary Tel: 01793 692929 Fax: 01793 537262 and all our friends have been e mail: piantcards@aol.com smashing."

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The Link Magazine • July 1999

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Link Centre price rises justified Over the last two months I have read with concern, the distress caused to some groups by the price increases in the Link Centre Community Suite.

Can I th an k The Link for allowing me to respond to those concerns, and hopefully express the council's continued commitment to the West Swindon community.

Before putting pen to paper I reflected upon how we came to this position. I remembered last summer's public consultation process over council spending.

Indeed one meeting was held at the Link Centre. The Swindon public told us that their priorities for spending were education and services to the elderly and that while the town's recreation centres were well regarded, spending in that area should remain flat.

During the winter months these priorities were tussled with and as a result sports and community facilities were asked to increase their charges by 10%, thus reducing the council subsidy needed to run them.

While the new prices were being worked out, I was made aware that the review had highlighted an unfairness across the town. Community groups using similar facilities were being charged less in West Swindon than in the north and east and it was recommended that this anomaly should be ad-

In October of this year they are opening a new fitness centre in the old Arts Studio now that arts services are focused in the Arts Centre, Devizes Road. This will have a positive effect upon Link Centre's income which we hope will enable lower prices to be maintained for services in the future, if priorities remain as they are today.

There has been a suggestion in previous Link articles that th e council's commitment to facilities in West Swindon was weakening.

This is not the case. But when money is limited - Swindon has the second lowest council tax of any unitary authority in the UK the debate for us all is to prioritise which community services in West Swindon get the largest cut of the cake.

(The views expressed are personal and may not reflect thoseofSwindon Borough Council, unless explicitly stated otherwise.)

Playworkers certified Fifteen local playworkers have been awarded certificates following a Swindon Council run training course called Take 10 for Play.

dressed.

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The rest, as they say, is history.

Prices in the Link Centre Community Suite were increased to reflect charges elsewhere, and for those groups hit hard we have attempted to phase in the increase, although I recognise that a number of groups had to stop using the service.

On reflection it would seem that those groups most affected are those in most need of council support. The provision of a blanket 'community rate' is perhaps not appropriate now that funds are tight an d subsidies need to be more finely targeted. The challenge for the council is to clearly determine the criteria for further council support, and then to confirm with groups if they can claim such help.

I have asked officers to put together options for councillors to consider, and to recommend how these may apply to community groups. I would hope to have these new arrangements in place for next year.

To conclude can I defend the Link Centre team who are obviously responding to political decisions and I know have attempted to balance everyone's needs.

Coun Derique Mountaut with some of the play workers who took the Take 10 course, from left Allyson Cardis, Project Worker at West Swindon Family Project, Mary Poole from Tooth ill Junior Club, Caroline Wall, ESA at Salt Way School

Aimed at those working with over 5s, particularly in after school clubs an d holiday playschemes, the course offered an opportunity to learn more about running successful practical playschemes, including organising activities, and child safety and protection.

Participants had to collect a portfolio of their work. They were also observed and assessed running a play session they had planned.

"It was an impressive course," said Allyson Cardis, Project Worker at West Swindon Family & Community Project, who took part. "I felt it was important to have a play qualification to back up the work we do with children in the project. The course was very well put together."

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Ma

Crisis hits Guide groups Despite record numbers on waiting lists, Guide units throughout West Swindon are struggling to survive due to a lack of adult leaders.

Mannington Division Commissioner, Hilda Cooper, is appealing for potential leaders to come forward. Two years ago, ten people became leaders or helpers in response to a Link article. She is hoping for a similar reaction.

"The situation is now desperate," she said. "Although Brownies are well staffed, they are holding on to 10 year olds who could be in Guides, if there were groups to join. This means that 7 year olds can't enter the Brownies.

"People are so committed to work or their families that there is less time for voluntary activities."

Fourteen units serve some 263 girls aged between 5 and 25 in the area. But between 100 and 200 others are on waiting lists. Freshbrook and Shaw Rainbows are likely to close in July and Shaw Guides are losing a leader.

Leaders have to be aged between 18 and 65, be able to commit 1 - 2 hours per week, and enjoy being with children or teenagers. They need good communication and organisational skills and a real sense of humour. Support and training are given.

To find out more, contact Hilda Cooper on 874874.

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bouncy castle and outings. Training is provided for all volunteers, who are supported by professional playleaders. Age and experience are less important than interest and enthusiasm.

Adults of all ages and teenagers can commit anything from a couple of days' trial upwards. To find out more, contact Thumbs Up on 618557.

------------------_.. -- • -------- ----

THERE'S MORE TQ G1

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Volunteers needed for summer scheme

"Come and meet lots of new friends, have fun and help others," challenges Thumbs Up committee member Carolyn Tovey.

Thumbs Up was set up in 1978 by a group of parents and now caters for over 100 children between the ages of 6 months and 16 years in and around Swindon.

Activities include swimming, riding, arts and crafts, music, a

29

^11941 912aJ

ee'

Thumbs Up Playscheme, which meets at Greendown School during August, needs volunteer helpers to support their holiday activity programme for children with physical and learning disabilities.

ine • July 1999

Interior and rio decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting

• Coving

Wallpapering • Tiling

• General Maintenance • Gardening

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

CL Reclaimed Timber &

building materials We buy and sell: Ply, bricks, timber, hardboard, chipboard and RSJs We also supply: sand & gravel (in bags)^^ For more details pop in or tel: 829715 Open: Mon - Sat, 9am - 5pm The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

30

The Link Magazine • July 1999

Big C group cares for sufferers and supporters CHIROPOD Advanced Reflexologist & Kinesiologist CLINIC AT HIGH STREET WooTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASK

Swindon Cancer and Carer Support Group is looking for active members to support a bid for charity status and, ultimately, a permanent drop-in centre.

The group fosters a positive ap- close friendship. Meetings pro- garden parties and concerts. New ideas are always welcome. proach to living with cancer - with vide a weekly bright spot.

Meetings are held on Thursdays "When I was diagnosed with the emphasis on 'living'. It offers companionship, support and an cancer, I was bereaved of my fu- at the Railway Village Commuopportunity for members to share ture," says a group member. "I nity Centre, Emlyn Square from their concerns with others who haven't looked at my diary or my 11am to 4pm. New members are understand but are not caught up horoscope since. The Cancer and always welcome - you may bring in the emotional ties of family and Carer Support Group gives me along a carer if you wish.

You can contact the group by something to look forward to every week. If someone asks how you calling Jock McAllister on 432042. are on the street, you simply say 'fine thanks'. Here,Icanbehonest Sponsored walk across Marlborabout it and then we can get on ough Downs in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. Sunday 11 July. with enjoying ourselves."

Group activities include trips, For details, call 01980 655590. arts and crafts, a pantomime visit,

Where are you if you're not on the West Swindon Map?

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Call (01793) 849914 anytime

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CHIROPODIST

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Member of the British Chiropractic Association

The Swindon branch of the British Sugarcraft Guild holds a barn dance on Friday 2 July to celebrate its tenth year since formation.

The group has fifty members and holds monthly meetings and workshops at the Haydon Centre to develop skills in sugarcraft and icing, and to swap tips.

There is a section for children to learn how to ice.

To find our more about the guild and the barn dance, call group chairwoman Cindy Mitchell on

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Sugar skills barn dance

0

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA e visits Iy

vixt # ext

Telephone: 01793 613334 Answermachine - all calls returned

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Sore feet?

(1 CARERS REQUIRED Are you interested in working with the elderly in the community. Part time work available in Swindon and surrounding villages.

We offer competitive rates of pay, good conditions and NVQ training Call for further details on (01793) 618264 (office hours only)

10% off orders over £25 Not to be used with any other otter. Valid until 3117/99

Fully trained & insured operators Commercial rates available Dupont Stainshield Protects against spills and dirt Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh

* We move furniture * Professional spotting kits available Stain removal made easy * Anti Allergy Treatment For asthma & allergy sufferers * Satisfaction guaranteed

Phone now for free no obligation quotation on

01793 - 870756 ULTRA CLEAN (WILTSHIRE) Open: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 7.00pm • Sat 9.00am - 1.00pm.

The Link Magazine • July 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

31

Garden centre access assured after customers show support

WI talk about birds

Your views have helped persuade Swindon Council to think again on housing development plans which could have put Grange Farm Nurseries in Haydon Wick out of business after 27 years of trading.

Tootleabrook WI next meets at Toothill Community Centre on Wednesday 21 July, 7.30pm.

Kathleen Wyatt will be talking about the RSPB. Visitors welcome.

The May Link reported that development control committee drawings for the Haydon III ex- which passed the outline plans for pansion did not make clear how the 5,500 house development on 1 customers in cars would access June. Coun King said planning Grange Farm. Concerned that this officers had assured him that acwould ruin them, owners Alan and cess to Grange Farm would conValerie Trotman started a petition tinue as normal along Haydon End and asked customers to support Lane, off Westfield Way, and that a new route through the new housthem by writing to council.

The 1,500 signature petition was ing off the new northern orbital presented to local ward councillor road would be created.

After the meeting Valerie Kelvin King before the council's Kelvin King receives the Grange Farm petition from Valerie and Alan Trotman

Trotman said, "we would like to thank all our customers for their support in writing to the council and signing our petition. Thanks also to Haydon Wick Parish Council and councillor King for their full backing."

Grange Farm nurseries is open daily between 8.30am and 5.30pm and Sundays loam to 4.30pm.

Celebrating wildflowers Seven Fields Conservation Group secretary, Marilyn Beale, is holding a walk entitled 'A celebration of wildflower meadows' on Sunday 4 July at 6pm.

All those interested in finding out more about Seven Fields are welcome. Meet at the car park off Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick or phone Marilyn on 725067.

LAN

N S PING

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board/ Panels/Gates • Block Paving • Patios, Paths, Turfing • Hedging & Mowing Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation

Tel: (01793) 526571

RON'S STORES 195/7 Rodbourne Road Swindon Tel: 523262 Garden Supplies

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? No j9b too small Give me a call for a free quote.

Contact John Wadsworth on 751317 Please note new number from 6 July 01666-860400

Get your garden ft Mr Rotavator Creative Gardens Landscaping, Patios, Paths & Ponds, Fencing, Clearance & General Maintenance l_3rg

We-coo.ita&

Tel: 01793 - 702076

ENTERPRISE WORKS Gipsy Lane, Swindon Tel: (01793) 616288 Fax: (01793) 542235 Swindon's No 1 Fencing and Shed manufacturer

• Garden fencing Concrete& timber posts • Garden sheds • Fencing accessories • Paving slabs • Garden ornaments • Kindling packs • Trellis panels • Picnic benches • Traditional wood logs • Greenhouses • Peat free soil improver Fencing panels from £10.25 Why not come along and check out our quality products? Our customers tell us that we give the best value for money in the area.

Trade enquiries welcome

AMI

SKIPS 2, 2', 3, 4, 5 yards capacity 5 days given to fill skip 12.3 tonne Mini-digger for hire

Freephone 0800 - 387613 Tel: 731610

8am - 8pm

£3.99 80 litre compost £2.75 40 litre compost 20 litre John Innes compost £2.55 40 litre horse manure £2.50 40 litre peat £1.85 40 litres Ericaceous compost £2.99 Growbags 99p 3' per 10 50p Canes 4' per 10 80p £1.15 5' per 10 £1.50 6' per 10 8' per 10 £2.35 Grass seed per lb from £1.30 Pelleted poultry manure £5.49 Bedding plants, per tray £3.99 Vegetable plants, per strip 60p

Geraniums, potted Fuschias, potted Patio plants Wire netting IOm x 2' x' /Z" Wire netting 1.0m x 3' x 1" Wire netting 10m x 3' x 2" 3kg charcoal 5kg charcoal Lighting liquid 13kg Handy Gas Green table oval White table oval Green table round White table round Green chair White chair

£1.25 £1.20 90p £9.99 £13.59 £10.19 £1.99 £3.25 £1.20 £10.50 £15.99 £14.99 £12.99 £12.49 £5.39 £5.29

Supavalue at Ron's Stores £9.99 21 piece picnic hamper Green striped contract chair £6.99 Ring 4 piece pagoda set £13.99 5 piece stainless steel pan set £44.99 130 piece tool kit £24.99 20 piece dinner set £9.99 Black & Decker GL200 9" strimmer £17.99 24 litre coolbox £8.49 Unibond No More Nails £1.99 Hozelock spray gun £5.99

£5.99 Easy Arch rose arch £2.99 1 litre Weedol gun Hozelock 30m hose starter set f 14.99 No clog 3 in 1 feeder £5.99 Garden tap kit £9.99 Grosvenor multi purpose silicone £1.99 15m barbed wire £2.99 Stanley 26" tool box £19.99 + 12" tool box free 12V cordless drill driver kit £35.99

Visit us for all your DIY needs

SERVICE SECTOR

32

ACCOUNTANCY

I

GRA ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY I Tax Assisr Disacr

SERVICES

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

• Business Start Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax

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

Short & long term assistance and projects Free initial meeting

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

Tel/fax: 01793 871790 Mobile: 0468 068770

I APPLIANCE REPAIRS Q

GK DECORATORS

Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed

Interior & exterior

painting and decorating Ceramic tiling Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

I DRIVER TRAINING TRANSKOS

Tel: 01793 701394 Mobile: 0777 5894563

MAINTENANCE Ltd.

Computerised theo ry training makes learning easier and more ENJOYABLE!

MULTIFIX

Call the man that can

I AERIAL SERVICES

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Getting a clear TV picture isn't difficult Call Abbey Aerials of Haydon Wick v Multi-point systems

:• Satellite installations v Poor reception

area specialists far v Amplifiers • All work guaranteed 7 days a week v 100% customer satisfaction

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

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

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

1

DECORATOR

Professional painter, decorator & ceramic tiler All interior and exterior work unde rt aken

For free estimate call Paul on I

or 771628 I ODD JOBS

THE ODD JOB MAN

KO

VIN

WHELAI

High Quality Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior FOR FREE QUOTATIONS, RING

01793 725699 I PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating

property mainten an ce

Free estimates

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

To find out more,

Tel: 01793 877859

Call us FREE 0800 146 455

or 0836 799614

Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793 - 886022

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 0973 663367

Awarded Top Three - Times supplement training awards for 1997 Covers the full DSA Syllabus Start before your 17th Birthday Used by many local driving schools Full 8-10 hours of supe rv ised training that could cost less than a driving lesson

I PROPERTY SERVICES

PREMIER

PROPERTY SERVICES Whatever you need, we will be able to help • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Electrical • Plumbing • Decorating • Carpent ry • Wood • General flooring building Friendly and e ff icient se rv ice Hiah standards auaranteed Call 525671 or Mobile 0973 760167

for all your painting & decorating, glazed tiling,kitchen fitting, carpentry, coving,

SECURITY

PFS PFS SECURITY C C T V SYSTEMS SYSTEMS Intruder Alarms/CCTV, Access Control Installation/Maintenance of Intruder/Fire Detection Systems 1509002 Ce rtified Installer • NACOSS

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

Small building work, carpent ry , joine ry , painting & decorating, fi tt ed wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fi tt ed "No job too small" Ve ry reasonable prices

SECURITY

4 ll1 Master locksmith • Sale engineers Over 21 Years service in the (! "! ^ Il l ^ security business 24 hour emergency call out service Free survey & estimates Safe opening & servicing Supply & fit all types of lock & access control systems CCTV, alarm systems • Digital locks Burglar bars & grilles made to insurance industry standards AA approved • Member of MLA Chubb • Yale • Union

Swindon 01793 644367 Mobile 0860 553575

I SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds

Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters Doubles also available Free installation & local deliver}

Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

The Link Magazine • July 1999

LLLL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Most leading brands.

Guaranteed repairs Same day service No call out charge • No VATI

A SUDS

DOMESTIC APPLIANCES VACUUM CLEANERS Bought, sold & repaired Very reasonable prices No job too big or small

Wanted: Vacuum cleaners Top prices paid

Tel: 01793 870780 or 07957 581699

PROPERTY SERVICES

COLTEX PROPERTY SERVICES Kitchen fitting & upgrades Ceramic tiling Plumbing repairs and general property maintenance

For a free estimate call 01793 882370 TOOL HIRE FOR TOOL HIRE .... ...... THINK FAST

4/10%

RING US AND WE'LL OFF DO THE REST

01793 617854

HIRE WITH THIS

33

L L

For Sale

For Sale

Girls bike, Emmelle Dove, 16" wheel, including stabilisers, suit 4 to 8 yr old, £35. Tel: 881591 Girls bike, Fizzer Raleigh, 16" wheel, suit age 4-6, perfect cond, £50. Girls bike, Raleigh, Poppet, suit age 2-4, li ke new, 12 "wheel. £20. Tel: 876138 Ladies bike, BSA, 3 gears, good cond, £35. Qualcast panther 30 hand mower with grass box, exc cond, £30.

Tel: 701037 Two Britax Cruiser car seats, body only, new covers still available from Halford, will sell separately, £15 each.

Tel: 538703 Britax pram/buggy with pram raincover, sunshade, and changing bag, vgc, £40. Tel: 872869 Tomy Light'n'Listen baby intercom, full working order and exc cond, £12.

Tel: 872869 Cot, pine, dropside, inc mattress & bedding, £50. Car seat, 0-9 months, £10. Baby swind in/outdoors, £10.

Tel: 882629 2in1 pushchair, exc cond, navy/ white check, swivel wheels, tray, 6 weeks use, £80. Wooden rocking crib and mattress, £45. Cube highchair, £20. Tel: 878470 Compact baby buggy, gd cond, inci raincover & basket underneath, £15.

Tel: 700917 Silver Cross pushchair, raincover, cosytoes, sun canopy, swivel wheels, dark colours, £40 ono. Pushchair, 3 position lie back, hood, raincover, swivel wheels, £20 ono. Tel: 0790 165 2398 Mothercare cot mobile, nursery rhyme characters, gd cond, £9. Tel: 539434 Mothercare pine cot with mattress, exc cond, £25. Tel: 539434 Mothercare baby car seat with head hugger, exc cond, £15. Tel: 539434 Mothercare Olympus pushchair & carrycot with rain cover, sun shade, cosytoes, exc cond, £75. Tel: 539434 Formula Tyco World Champion racing car set, many extras, including speed sound and lap counter, hardly used, £50. Tel: 871742 Power Ranger curtains, 54ins drop and two matching single quilt cover and pillow case sets, exc cond, £20.

Tel: 870656 Two quilt covers, lamp shade, table lamp, curtains tie back, Forever Friends design, £40 ono. Tel: 886770 Wedding dress, ivory colour with detail on the front & arms, exc cond, size 14, £195 ono. Tel: 886410 Ivory wedding dress, designer, size 10-12, worth £1,200 will sell for £350.

Tel: 882629 Wellington shoes, ideal for gardening, as new, £5. Tel: 524194 Horse riding hat, suit age 6-7 yrs, plus crop, little used, gd cond, £12.

Leotard, gd cond, suit age 8yrs £5.

Tel: 876056

Cabin bed with desk, shelf, ward- Large box jars, pickle, jam and cotrobe, mattress, blue, £70. Tel: fee, free. Tel: 612918 876518 Newhome sewing machine model: Green patterned large lounge chair, 930, £50. Tel: 887647 as new, cost £550, sell £150. Tel: Riccar sewing machine, 512A, 705340 used twice, good basic model, as Kitchen bar stools, x3, light oak, £5 new, £150. Tel: 878630 each. Tel: 703834 Phillips midi hi-fi system, exc cond, Three drawer bedside chest, £10. £60. Small upright piano, ideal beElectric kettle, £7. Cool touch 2 slice ginner, £120. Tel: 875991 toaster, £7. Tel: 871426 BC Rich Mockingbird electric guitar, Black cane conservatory suite, 2 gd cond, complete with Park G10 seater, 2 armchairs, perfect cond, practice amp, £100. Tel: 611528 £280. Wesley Barrel guest bed, al- 25 new window cleaners scrims, No. most new, one bed goes under top 1 36" x 36", £35. Tel: 771768 one, £155. tel: 524651 Standard fuschia trees from £3 Pine blanket box, with lovely arched each, bushes from 50p. Tel: 879761 facade on the front, use as a coffee Pre-formed pool, suitable small gartable, a seat, storage, great for toys, den, £30. Rockery stones, £1 each £95. Tel: 614146 ono. Tel: 723904 Grey and green plastic desk, 44" (w), Qualcast Concorde 30 lawn mower, 32" (h), v sturdy, ideal for child's com- £45. Tel: 871426 puter, must be seen. Tel: 881353 Four person tent, incl inner tent, Floral sofa bed, £40. 2 wicker hangers, 12 volt light, ground sheet, chairs, £5 each. Tel: 704169 gas bottles, gas cooker and cooker Sofa and 2 chairs, exc cond, pat- stand, all for £100. Tel: 692123 terned fabric, mainly burgundy, 3 yrs Wire hamster cage plus accessoold, £175. Tel: 706521 ries, £10. Tel: 874343 Dressing table and stool and match- Cavalier 20iGL hatch, 11 months ing cheval mirror, ivory and gold, MoT, 5 months tax, FSH PAS alarm, £100. Tel: 882880 or 07977 108857 88,000 miles, exc cond throughout, 3 x 6 folding bed, almost new, £15. £2,650 ovno. Tel: 870107 Two relaxer garden chairs, deep but- BMW 316i, silver, 60,000 mis, 1990 toned mattress, £28. Tel: 611652 H reg, 2 dr, power steering, full servBlack desk, tubular legs, 2 shelves ice history, central locking, s'roof, below on one side, £12. Tel: 878605 elec mirrors, £4,250 ono. Tel: 0402 Double wall light, brass, complete 021919 with shades, as new, £9. Tel: 524194 Wanted Electric cooker, good cond, £80. Jazz dancing shoes, gd cond, adult Tel: 875192 size 4 or 5. Tel: 872928 Electric cooker, eye level grill, four Single bed, patio and conservatory rings, oven, v clean, £55. Tel: 871426 furniture. Tel: 876518 Coal effect 2 bar electric fire, brass Electric potters wheel. Tel: 882880 surround, vgc, £40. Tel: 539911 or 07977 108857 Glencara electric fire, as seen Argos, Double white wardrobe. Tel: 487494 £30. Firescreen, £5. Tel: 886870 Night storage heater, ultra slim Found Dimplex XL 18, as new, will deliver Small tabby cat with white collar, v friendly, timid, in Westminster/Corfe locally, £195 ono. Tel: 878605 Hoover Turbo CleanerAutopex, with Roads area, Toothill. Tel: 530538 tools, exc cond, £50. Tel: 524194

For Sale

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Name & Address (not for publication)

Tick if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web site

34

The Link Magazine • July 1999

WANTED Old print books Bought for cash Tel: (01793)

Hafr by Sarah

C

Mobile hairdressing in the comfort of your own home at prices you can a fford Phone: 01793 882186

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

p'

the ;'

Pian earn to Sing

Phone Swindon 695235 for further information I IuIIuIIlIIIIIuIlI

SWINDON FAMILYCHURCH Live with integri ty Love wholeheartedly

Photocopier to give away For a small donation, West Swindon

Family & Community Project have a Toshiba BDS120 photocopier to give to a good cause. It is approximately 18ins x 18ins x 12ins.

To find out more, contact Julie or Mark on 871303.

Prof t.sional

in you

' ' home

Cu For app ^

£3.50 ents, call

^1i878217

AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

& PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTRE All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Top TV journalist talks about why we need to believe in Jesus Christ Rev David Earnshaw reports the visit to Freshbrook Church by Martin Bashir

Ten vacancies Part time hours Average £4 per hour Immediate start.

Princess Diana, Louise Woodward, Al Fayed and the parents of Stephen Lawrence are among a growing list of nationally known personalities with whom television journalist Martin Bashir has become associated.

Call James between 10am and 6pm on 529503 JUST THE JOB Domestic , Services Agency requires Domestic Cleaners & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112 BC The person who changed AD History is changing peoples lives Today ep

c vange fjc Worsley Road af0

Trust God in all things

SUNDAYS 10.30AM

A meeting for anyone who has a gambling problem and wants to do something about it is held every Wednesday at Gorsehill Community Centre, Chapel Street, Gorsehill, 7pm to 9pm.

On Wednesday 14 July the Swindon group of Gamblers Anonymous has an open meeting in which members are recognised for their length of time off gambling.

2llennium Thoughts

Hai'djing

Tracey

Gamblers gather weekly

m m m n

m

m

m^

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

LOCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw-10:30amRevdAndrewHethenngton:770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church -10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

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R

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

Martin Bashir with Rev Earnshaw, right, and Kevin and Sarah Montague who knew him at his South London church before moving to Swindon On Thursday 3 June members uniqueness of Jesus Christ - God's and friends of Freshbrook Evan- answer to our sinfulness by dying gelical Church heard Martin speak on the cross. He concluded by about his work and also his Chris- underlining the shortness of time.

This was poignantly illustrated by tian faith.

As well as being a gifted jour- his being called in the early hours nalist he is an excellent communi- of the morning to be told of Princator and the entire evening was cess Diana's death; the sudden well received. Martin was brought death of his brother, and the tragic up in another religion but became murder of fellow television joura committed Christian in his late nalist and presenter Jill Dando. teens. He is now married and has The evening was one of many three children.

His work is varied and takes events put on by Freshbrook Evanhim to many parts of the world gelical Church during this year of and a number of key interviews mission entitled 'Preparing for have certainly cast him into the Y2K'.

On9 July local horse trainer Mikey public's eye. His diligent work has brought him twelve separate I-Ieaton-Ellis will speak about his awards including two Royal Tel- work and faith at a men's supper. evision Awards and a BAFTA. A holiday bible club runs from The theme of Martin's talk was 16 to 21 August with the theme 'why we need to believe in Jesus 'Going Bananas'.

Christ', and from a man who is A flower festival takes in the well-travelled and well versed in week starting 15 September and the problems that the world faces, will coincide with two millennium he gave a very clear and concise exhibitions. talk on the need to think seriously.

The year will culminate with a He spoke of the dilemma that the week of mission led by Roger world faces and that no matter Carswell from 22 to 28 November. where you go, the problems are If you would like to know more still the same. He then stressed the ring the church office on 873050.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • July 1999

Every game tells a story in song and dance

35

The Trabitionai

*rbaat of 3.eihi eating Learn this ancient healing art Reiki is safe, completely natural and highly effective complementa ry therapy to all other forms of health care. Reiki is not a religion or a belief system A few of the performers in the Tregoze School show The Seven Sided Dice

Despite having to prepare children for national tests, teachers at Tregoze School, Grange Park were still able to write and rehearse a 90 strong cast in a spectacular show of song and dance before the half term break.

The audience were taken on a

fantasy journey through all the popular board games - Snakes and Ladders, Star Wars, Monopoly, Cluedo and Chess - as four brothers and sisters go in search of a magical island with help of a seven sided dice.

Teacher organiser Kate Andrews

said, "the children worked incredibly hard and the support from parents was tremendous. With such a large cast, we could not have achieved such a success without their help making the costumes, applying make up and backstage organisation."

Flower festival at the church in the park

V WV WV VW 25% OFF MEXICAN PINE SIDEBOARDS

I

Once again St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park will be awash with blooms for the annual Flower Festival over the weekend of 2 to 4 July.

Displays around the 700 hundred year old church will depict the wonder of God's creation, complimented by craft work from children at local primary schools.

This is an opportunity to see the historic monuments of the St John family, including the unique tryptich which is only rarely opened for public display. A sec-

AND DRESSERS

An important difference between Reiki and other energy therapies is that once activated in your hands, you have it for life and can tr eat yourself.

Courses available at all levels, small informal groups, individual a tt ention, comprehensive manual, certificated.

A ft er course guidance and support.

Reiki Association Master F. J. Taylor, (01793) 849914 or 07775 932984 (mobile) Reiki treatments available £10 per half-hour or £20 per full hour

tion is pictured on the right.

Opening times: Friday 2 and Saturday 3 July,10am to 6pm. Sunday 4 July, 2pm to 6pm.

Refreshments will be available throughout the weekend.

Entry is free, so is car parking, but donations will be welcomed.

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

Summer fayre

Bring in this advertisement and claim your 25% discount Swindon's largest stock of ethnic and rustic furniture

One World Mexican Pine Centre 92 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon

Tel: L

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St Mary's holds its summer fayre on Saturday 3 July, from 11am. I Many of the usual stalls will be available plus lots of attractions including 'soak the vicar,' climb the bell tower, scalextrix grand prix, fire engine, children's art competition and summer hat parade.

For details of the fayre, and to enter the children's art competition and summer hat parade, call Revd. Ann Mackenzie on 870244.

lkd"i

FR EE SUli V FY No I)IiPOS1'I'

Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted £ 50 20' fascia & gutter fi tt ed £115 20' fascia, so ff it & gu tt er £175 20' fascia & so ff it £110 (prices correct at time of publication)

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