July 2005 Swindon Link

and the swindon wide what's on guide

Opening

Tagging discussion to take place at West Forum

hearts & minds

How are the police and Swindon Crime and Disorder Department tackling graffiti and

Peatmoor School hosted pupils and staff from their partner school in South Africa in May. See page 14

tagging?

Find out at the West Swindon Area Forum see page 7

Looking out for young people • West councillor takes up cudgels for youth - see page 8 • New youth centre soon to open in the North - page 9

There's a warm July welcome at Purton's hidden treasure

First look at brand new school

Right, Lekhetho Mofokeng and Elvis Mokeoena from Dihlabeng visiting Steam on its fifth anniversary

Pupils at Hreod Parkway were given a tour of the building site where their new school is being built in North Swindon. Exclusive photo on page 12

Smiles for Ukraine

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Two Swindon dentists have returned from delivering a mobile dental surge ry to Ukraine. See page 3

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VE Day party in Abbey Meads Children at Abbey Meads looked back in time and enjoyed a street party - see page 15

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Dentist Brendon Ball, right, was sent on his latest mercy mission by Mayor of Swindon Ray Fisher and councillor Maurice Fanning with a special Swindon brew from Arkells

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The Link Magazine • Jul 2005

Greendown helps Tsunami fishermen put to sea again

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by Kate Williams Money raised by youngsters at Greendown School has purchased a boat for fishermen in the South East Indian coastal village of Nizampatnam as they rebuild their community following the Boxing Day Tsunami.

By working in associathe fisherman of Nizamtion with a local Rotary patnam.

Club, the pupils ensured Greendowri s boat that all the money raised = .. r1 bearing the inscription would go to the people ' Gifted by Greendown who needed it most. It was School' - is one of only channelled through the six fibre mechanical Rotary Club of India and boats, the others being no administration costs wooden. were charged.

Phil Skelton, PresiWhat's more, the Rotary dent of the Rotary Club Club of Swindon Thamesof Swindon Thamesdown promised to top up down thinks the pupils' the amount raised by the efforts could not have 11r , school to buy the boat. been better placed. H fi, y Assistant headteacher said, "club members are Gary Pearson said, "we ^ 1 very pleased to have t wanted to find a cause worked closely with where the students could Greendown. see their contributions go "Channelling funds ing directly to those in Rotary Clui? utembcrs David Duke and Phil Skelton receive a through Rotary had sevneed. It was excellent that cheque from Tom Vose and Sian Gannon. Front Amy Snook eral advantages. Money we were able to work with and Gary Boggan holding a leaflet conveying thanks to all who was spent locally to helped the fisherman a local organisation." stimulate the local A school fundraising day raised reported there." economy, and fishermen were Amy Snook and Sian Gannon given the means of providing long £1,357. Tom Vose and his friend Gary Boggan baked cakes to raise came up with the original idea of term support for their families money. Tom said, "a friend of mine organising a sponsored photo col- while supplying fresh food to the was in Thailand at the time of the lage of fellow pupils in Year 8. community.

In total Rotary International Tsunami, not in the affected areas, "This is a fantastic achievement but he was able to tell us what was helped to fund 130 new boats for by the pupils."

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 3

Smiles from Swindon bring joy to Ukraine Two dentists from the town, who run a charity called Smile Menders, have brought hope to people in a part of Ukraine who might never ever receive dental treatment.

Brendon Ball from the Fresh- mobile and the supplies brook Dental Practice and ortho- cannot be used until layers dontist Richard Swift and their of officialdom have wives returned in mid-June from checked that the papertheir latest visit to the Cherkassy work matches the delivery. region of Ukraine, having deliv"We were told that the ered a former Wiltshire Health Au- caravan we towed there in :,s+ thority mobile dental surgery for 2003 had now been used to use in remote rural districts where treat 15,000 people in coundental treatment is very limited. try towns, many who Brendon said the trip was un- whom would never see a eventful, except for a couple of dentist." delays by bureaucrats who still A schedule of work for 'Share the wealth,' think Ukraine is part of the Soviet the mobile has already been says Comrade Lenin.

Union. "We were very well re- prepared, to take dental Brendan Ball toasts ceived in Cherkassy and honoured care to people living in the fraternal friendship by the local government and health far reaches of the region between the people of authorities for the help we have which is as big as Wales.

Swindon and Ukraini provided since 1999. Even so, the However the chronic state ?ilh Arkell's best brew Brendon, right, hands over the keys of of the back roads would easier to transfer money to them the mobile to Dr Ivan Kovolenko, direc- determine how far it can go.

Brendon said the work of Smile knowing they can buy materials to tor of dental services in Cherkassy Menders will be changing because keep the caravan and mobile surof the rapid improvements in gery supplied.

"We're going to concentrate on Ukraine. "We're going to move away from collecting and deliver- training in up-to-date methods and ing equipment which is very time also improving dental health educonsuming. We've built excellent cation so that people don't have to partnerships with dental special- visit a dentist. ists and health officials in "Smile Menders could also be Cherkassy and it's now much looking at other countries where dental care needs improving."

• More pictures can be seen at www.swindonlink.com A group of volunteers have reopened the cafe at Freshbrook Community Centre to create another focal point for community life.

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A cafe area was in the building's knows what friendships and new original design when it opened projects will emerge." over 20 years ago but has only The Freshbrook community cafe been used occasionally to serve opens on Wednesdays 11am to teas and coffee.

2pm for tea, coffee, soft drinks, Project organiser Tina Mackie sandwiches, cakes and biscuits. If said, "a few women were talking more volunteers join a rota of helpabout wanting to do something ers, it could open more often from positive in their community. The September. cafe gives residents a place to get Drop into the cafe to offer your together, talk, exchange ide i,; vc ho help.

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The Link Magazine • July 2005

Promises, promises. Will they bring the people on side?

Swindon is a good place to live in, most people would agree. But since 1997, when the town became a unitary authority and took back education and social services functions, the way it has been run has been beset by confusion, a lack of clear direction, let alone agreement of how to move forward. Consequently a deep cynicism has developed in the population as to what the council is about.

However some promises spell town centre cultural performance, In 2002 the Audit Commission These, it claims, will make Swinrated the council as one of the worst don an excellent council by 2010. out what council leader Mike exhibition and meeting space for 15 in the country; last December Some promises are existingpoli- Bawdendescribesas'ambitionand yet more offices.

Coun Bawden reckons it's time Swindon's status was elevated cies like removing racist or oh- determination to make Swindon a from poor to weak. Now, with scene graffiti. Others are repack- great place to live, work and visit.' to look forward. "The council has Mike Pitt in place as interim Chief aged, such as opening seven new A town centre First Stop Shop for spent too much time firefighting Executive, seconded from the ex- schools in North Swindon: work is advice and information on all coun- day to day problems. We need to cil services is promised, as is a focus on future achievements and cellent rated Kent County Coun- already well underway.

Some are hardly new, like keep- round the clock call centre and how we will deliver better servcil, and the Conservative party in control with a clear majority - and ing residents' informed through better access to council services ices. It's also time for the people of the town to hold the council to next May's council elections com- Swindon News. Some should have online, The council also plans to turn account." ing back into focus - the council been achieved already, such as the The promises will be published cabinet has come up with 50 prom- aim of saving £11 million through the Old Railway Museum into a ises to the people of Swindon to be buying goods and services more multi-agency advice centre, even in Swindon News. See also: www.swindon.gov.uk though this will mean losing a large achieved in the next five years. efficiently.

Sir Mike turns to town visionary in drive for improvement When Interim Chief Executive Mike Pitt arrived in Swindon in April to get to grips with Swindon Council's drift and uncertainty, he wondered about the bespectacled, cigarette smoking character framed on the wall of his new office. ing three page eVery quickly he learned of David older documents and strategies to talent. He wants mailsand25page MurrayJohn(DMJ)townclerkbe- give explicit undertakings to im- all council dereports for meettween 1938 and 1974, who drove prove the quality of life in Swin- partments conings followed by Swindon's transformation from a don. I want them to be a constant centrated on one .. -'further meetings single industry town to one offer- reminder to every member of staff. site instead of beto confirm earlier ing diverse employment for a They will be reviewed every six ing scattered decisions. months and the public will be told around the town vastly expanded population. quote "To Mr Pitt has incorporated the how the council is performing and and much better David Murray use of high tech- spiritofDMJintohisdealingswith asked to comment."

John, 'senior staff He has also got the council to nology so people councillors and officers in telling must have spirit them that the council must deliver agree to cut the number of direc- can access counI and an element of services tors from five to eight, pay them cil better service to its taxpayers. steel in them to atHe said, "the 50 promises the more and to advertise the new po- online. tain the ultimate The council is council has agreed brings together sitions nationally to attract the best looking into hiv- Shaking up Swindon: Sir Mike Pitt objective.' In the ing off Swindon same way I want Services as an 'arms-length con- positive effort throughout the ortractor' with the expectation that it ganisation, a drive to get things will make a 'substantial surplus' done and some risk taking."

• • , Mr Pitt, who was made a knight to be reinvested in council activiin the Queen's Birthday honours ties.

He wants to slash bureaucracy list, has been using DMJ words in and put an end to long energy his presentations to officers. One sapping meetings, piles of paper of his favourites is:'Do I pull rank?

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"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 Roger Ogle leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Tel: (01793) 608840 Swindon commenced in January 1994."

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unless an advertiser or publisher has graphs require similar authority

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 5

Use your wheelies less in the West.

Recycle more says council.

Ten thousand households in West Swindon - excluding Sparcells and Peatmoor - are taking part in the town's first waste collection service using wheelie bins combined with a recycling collection.

Paper, glass, cans, He added that the " ' foil and textiles for reWest Swindon service cycling are being colis an experiment and lected every week, but the council wants the wheelies are empfeedback from resitied fortnightly. dents.

This has led to some To comment, write x ». neighbourhoods lookto: Waste Manageing a mess because ment Team, Swindon loose waste bags are not es Services, Waterside being collected and Park, Swindon SN2 wheelies are not emp2DW or mail: acook@ tied if they are overswindon.gov.uk j4 filled and the lids are • Sparcells and Peatnot closed. moor remains on Swindon Council reweekly black bag and cycling officer Andrew recycling collections eu .

Cook said, "wedistribbecause all 10,000 uted information with wheelies were issued the wheelie bins durto the other parts of ing May advising residents of how West Swindon. the new service would work. In • To avoid your neighbourhood some streets there is a lot of evi- being disfigured by uncollected dence of sorting and recycling, but rubbish, sort and recycle more, or in others, people are leaving out a take waste to the council's recylot of side waste. The council does cling centre at Waterside Park. not have the resources to remove • Keep your wheelie smelling this. sweet with a bin liner. See the ad"We are asking all residents to vert on page 48. recycle more so that less has to go Asda goes big on the environment into wheelies." and recycling - see page 43

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The Link Magazine • July 2005

Council thinks town can expand by another 16,000 homes When The Link was first distributed to the 500 houses already built in West Swindon in late 1978, the town had a population of just over 150,000. Now its population is around 185,000 and plans are being put forward for it to grow for another 21 years.

Most of the housing develop- these have to be built 'west of the east, beyond ment has been in The Link's target borough.' the A419, distribution area: Strategic planning is now the should be the responsibility of the South West way to go. • 11,500 in West Swindon Regional Assembly which sees However • 6,000 in North Swindon (another 4,000 to be built) Swindon as a major growth area. the report plus other sites around the town. Looking at the period between 2016 makes it clear Assuming the Front Garden de- and 2026, the assembly asked local that growth velopment of 4,000 homes gets planners to consider whether the can only take underway and permission is given town could cope with between place if there is for 1,800 homes next to Coate Wa- 16,000 and 24,000 new homes. A central governter, land still has to be found for report from Swindon Council has ment funds for another 1,250 dwellings under the been sent to the assembly arguing infrastructure terms of Structure Plan to 2016. A that only 16,000 can be accommo- development. Growing pains. Swindon may still add houses to the west as recent planning enquiry suggested dated and the expansion to the It says the road part of development requirements up to 2016 - before possinetwork will ble expansion to the east. The picture shows the green fields be at capacity separating West Swindon, left, from Lydiard Millicent, top by 2016 and right, which could be built on more public member of the regional assembly, transport will be needed.

Water supply is under major said, "it's easy to forget Swindon strain and new housing will de- has been successful over many pend on a new reservoir in Ox- years because it has continued to fordshire due to be opened in 2020. grow. However we're putting forIt adds that there is no capacity to ward a lower level of expansion so treat and discharge sewage. Extra that we can ensure the highest treatment systems and new tech- quality of development."

The regional assembly will draw nology will be required.

The report says that greenfield up a regional strategy for developdevelopment around the town ment in the South West by the end should only be permitted if com- of the year. Further consultation plemented by urban regeneration, and a public enquiry into the growth proposals will take place particularly in the town centre.

Council leader Mike Bawden, a during 2006.

The Link Magazine • July 2005

7

New police station should boost use of town's police points Changes in the way Swindon is policed, started a number of years ago, take a big step forward in July when staff move from police stations in the town centre and Westlea to a brand new high tech station on the edge of Swindon, to the east on A420.

However the police are keen that police station is one element in a and publishing the opening times driver documents." the public stay away and use the number of measures introduced for the local police points. These Although the police points in local police points in West and over the last few years to make will be the main point of contact West and North Swindon have North Swindon and in the town policing more effective. By deploy- for the public when they have to been open for a couple of years, ing new communications and con- present themselves and paper- use has been almost non-existent centre.

Chief Superintendent Andrew trol strategies, the aim is to use our work, such as alien registration or because of eratic opening times.

Tatum said the focus of police work resources more efficiently and will be in the community and the maximise the time officers spend local police points will be the place on patrol. p ple will go for interview people "We will be publicising this new or to present documents. "The new approach through Swindon News ^^GC'i (((t ^1' L=f (^^ Chief Superintendent Andrew Tatum at the soon to be occupied police statio n

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Carp on the move: The well fed fish from the pond by the front door of central police station will also be moving to a new aquatic facility by the entrance of the station.

New use for police sites: The central site is to be redeveloped as part of the Swindon town centre regeneration. Westlea police station opened in 1992 and is on the market, complete with 20 well appointed custody cells.

West Forum to talk about menace of graffiti and tagging The West Swindon Area Forum is putting the plague of tagging and illegal graffiti that afflicts the area at the top of its agenda for the next meeting on Monday 11 July, 7.30pm, in the Link Centre.

Representatives from Swindon Council's Crime and Disorder Team, the police and Swindon Services graffiti removal team have been invited to talk about how they are tackling the problem.

Shaw & Nine Elms councillor Nick Martin said, "tags are a major irritation across the town and particularly for people in West Swindon. The meeting will discuss the issue and see if there are any solutions

available."

The forum provides an opportunity for the eight Swindon councillors who Police under attack front the taggers. WPC Pat represent the area to dis- Salter and community support officer Amanda cuss community issues Lukar are searching for the vandal who graffitied with residents. Anybody the West Swindon Police point can attend the forum to contribute their view and ideas to • West councillor takes on town improve the area, and ask ques- wide role of youth work czar - page tions about council activities.

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The Link Magazine • July 2005

Overhaul for town's youth service under the eye of West councillor

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A West Swindon councillor has given hope to a junior youth club threatened with closure, and is aiming to see a huge improvement in youth services across the town.

Coun Steve Wakefield, who rep- for club are doing an excellent job; resents Toothill and Westlea, has it's the kind of activity we want to been given the responsibility by see taking place in the community.

"As far as Toothill Farm is conSwindon Council of overseeing the renewal of the youth service which cerned, the West Swindon counwas very heavily criticised by cillors want it to continue as a community facility rather than see yet Ofsted in May. The inspectors slammed Swin- more housing. The farm site could don by saying the standard of make an ideal location to develop young people's achievements, youth related activities, but we quality of youth work practice and want to get opinions from the peostrategic and operational leader- ple of Toothill."

Coun Wakefield said his town ship and management are all inadwide role will be to ask the diffiequate.

The low priority given to youth cult questions of council officers services has resulted in neglect, so that the young people of Swininadequate strategic leadership, don are better served.

"With the reorganisation of edufragmented delivery and lack of cation and social services into a clear vision.

But the inspectors say that a new children's services department, the management team knows the chal- council has a clear responsibility lenges, though it underestimates to do a better job for teenagers in our town. the task ahead.

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" West Swindon councillors are fighting to keep Toothill Farm open for young people,"says Councillor Steve Wakefield, pictured with Toothill Junior Youth Club

Officers gave their reaction to the report at the West Swindon Area Forum in May when coun Wakefield said he wanted to see the young people of the town get a better deal from the council.

He also spoke up for Toothill Junior Youth Club who, in the Spring, were nearly evicted by the council when they tried to renew their annual rental agreement for using the Toothill Farm social hall.

Club secretary Mavis Reed bluntly told officers and councillors that the club felt that elements in the council were intent on getting rid of community users of the farm so that the site could be sold off for housing.

At a visit to the club arranged by The Link, coun Wakefield said, "something is wrong if a viable, successful youth club feels under threat from the council.

"The volunteers running thejun-

"The youth service became a lost department in the council. We accept what Ofsted says; their report gives us the basis for moving forward and delivering a better service. This will be through directly employed youth workers, and also in partnership with voluntary groups and the churches who do good, often unrecognised work with y oung people."

Activity days at Toothill Farm The West Swindon Family Project are planning summer holiday play days at the farm. Details will be published in the August Link, or call Nikki Hillier on 871303.

Finding out what young people want The results of a survey of 400 West Swindon teenagers are being analysed for a report to a community forum with local councillors later this year.

The Link Magazine • July 2005 9

North Swindon Youth Centre now open. Users wanted It has been a long wait, but teenagers in Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads will shortly be coming in from the cold to enjoy activities in their own youth premises.

The North Swindon Youth CenCaroline said there was already tre, located under the steps in front --^ a group of youngsters keen on takof the fountains at the District Cening part in music writing, mixing tre has been beset with problems and jamming sessions. since it was 'finished' some two Reaction from others who visyears ago: a leaking roof proved ited the centre on 15 June was endifficult to remedy. However, fitthusiastic. Scott said, "we've got ting out is virtually complete and " nothing in North Swindon, apart Swindon Council's Youth Service from standing around in the cold is starting to develop a programme _ and getting moved on by security. that will prove appealing to young ` It's going to be really good to do people in the area. something creative with our time."

A youth worker to head up the '` Lloyd said, "it's good to see some project is to be appointed in the moneybeingspentonyouthfaciliAutumn, but the council is keen ties." that local youngsters play a role in Local councillors accept the determining the range of activities youth centre will not be able to to take place. holding a series of events and ac- Tuesdays: 3.45pm to 5.45pm cope as the population grows.

The centre has two meeting tivities with the aim of meeting Wednesdays: 7pm to 9pm Abbey Meads councillor Justin rooms, one equipped with compu- and working with young people, Thursdays: 10am to midday Tomlinson believes that the social ter controlled projector and particularly those who go out of The door is tucked away under provisionmadewhenNorthSwinwhiteboard, a large space where the area to pursue interests or en- the canopy next to the library en- don was originally planned leaves four internet linked computers will tertainment. Anyone with an idea trance, much to be desired. "There are far be available, as well as TV, DVD for an activity or an event, please She is also keen to meet adults too few facilities at local level which player and playstations. There is get in touch." interested in becoming sessional means there is potentially an antialso a coffee bar, kitchen and toiThere is a questionnaire for youth workers or volunteers, social behaviour time bomb." lets. young people to send in their views One activity already lined up More youth provision will be Youth worker Caroline Starling which can be picked up at the for North Swindon is the Mobile available when the Prior y Vale secsaid, "we want to involve young North Swindon Library, by calling Media Project run by Cre8 Stu- ondaryschooliscompletedbySeppeople across North Swindon in 465452 or mailing Caroline at: dios. This will give young people tember 2006. all aspects of developing a pro- orbitalyouthproject@swindon access to digital photography and • Beat summer holiday boredom gramme; we want to find out their .gov.uk video equipment, multi-media see page 38 needs and interests.

Better still, young people can computers for editing images and Haydon youth look into "Over the summer we will be meet her in the youth centre on: mixing music. area's history - page 50

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10 The Link Magazine • July 2005

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Keen on fruit, water and exercise Youngsters at Toothill School are taking healthy food and exercise seriously because the school has been given a healthy school award.

Healthy Schools project teacher coordinator Tanya Shea said the award recognised the efforts made to encourage new approaches to diet and active lifestyles, and also the social and emotional support to children as well as parents.

1 a,ii a Shea and Toothill School children with Site Whitehead, Healthy School Award coordinator from the Swindon Primary Cnr'e Trust, centre

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Beating the blues in The opening of a new facility atTaw Hill Medical Centre was lost in the fog of the general election in May when North Swindon MP Michael Wills visited a suite dedicated to providing patients with access to internet and computer delivered information on health related matters.

TI.,, 1e compu t' ers are unILlu( a5 they are programmed with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy software called 'Beating The Blues' which provides psychological support for people coping with mild and moderate depression, post-natal depression and the confusion arising

Wills had given the practice since it first opened in 1999. "Michael's help has been invaluable whilst the practice grew through two temporary locations before we moved to the present permanent facility earlier this year.

"The suite provides patients with an invaluable resource about health matters and their own particular needs, complementing the support of professionals."

In March former South Swindon MP Julia Drown opened a high-tech 3D ultra-sound suite in her name. www.tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 11 HOMEOPATHY Pippa Nicholas MARH

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Registered Osteopath David Davies D.O Registered Osteopath Cricklade Road Practice (Established 20 years) 530 Cricklade Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 722913

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

Allergy Testing 150 foods and airborne irritants tested with instant results.

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Dr Dieter Nowotzin, Dr Amit Dwivedi, Dr Anne Hoffineyer New patients always welcome Surgery hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 12.30pm; 2pm - 5.30pm Closed Thursday afternoon

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Also at Coopers: fine fragrances. toiletries, ear piercing, allergy testing and now stocking Herba Tint permanent natural hair dyes

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www.tawhilisurgery.nhs.uk New patients always welcome

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

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

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12 The Link Maaazine • Jul y 2005

Popular school to expand

Hreod visits new site

Bradon Forest School has met all the Government's criteria of success and popularity and has been given permission to increase the number on roll.

This means that every year group will have 252 children, instead of trying to manage a "± fluctuating intake between eight and nine forms of entry. y The school will receive £1.25 million in capital funds which will provide extra science labs, administration areas, careers guidance rooms and new changing rooms.

From September Bradon will also become a specialist arts school which will see a new £200,000 drama studio built in the next year.

Headteacher Len Spiers, above, said he was delighted that Bradon Forest could now consolidate its intake and offer much improved facilities.

The new Hreod Parkway School will soon be rising out of the ground, next to the present site on Akers Way. To get a sense of scale to the the sports hall will be built.

"We were shown the foundaproject headteacher Andrew Fleet and a group of pupils were given a tions of the 18th Century farmconducted tour of the site in early house discovered on the site which June by Laing O'Rourke construc- archaeologists have studied, and also the drainage system and pond tion manager Steve Mullins.

Mr Fleet said everybody was which is being dug to contain the impressed. "Seeing the plans and rainwater run off from the site."

The group on site included Year the model is one thing, but to actor ally pace out the site was incred- 9 pupils Zak Wetlake and Ashley ible. We were taken to the middle McKeever who, in Year 7, were on of the atrium which will rise up the Hreod student council which three storeys at the centre of the were consulted on the designs put school: it's an enormous area, big forward by the different compaenough for well over 1,000 people nies bidding to build their new school. to gather.

They will be in Year 11 when the "We also saw the foundations for the wings which will radiate school transfers to the new buildfrom the atrium and also where ings at Easter 2007.

Steve Mullins of Laing O'Rourke explains how foundations are being built at the neri' school. Photo: Richard Wintle, Calyx Multimedia

Twenty years for family friendly school It was all 1980s gear at the Shaw Ridge fete on 18 June to celebrate the school's twentieth anniversary.

The parents and staff enjoyed the day as much as the children, rediscovering their New Romantic glitter, leg warms ers and big hair. :^p^!

Unlike many new r. ,. .

• schools built before or •.^ + ' ; since, which often !>A +^ opened in spare class- r rooms or mobiles on '.:' other school sites, Shaw Ridge Primary opened in its own Sallie Cowell :r ith Slrazv Ridge yotoi sters buildings in September 1985. From one class the school education and provides very good grew to over 240 on roll under the value for money.

Mrs Cowell said the school has headship of Keith Burke, who was well known for his award winning always had a special family atgymnastic teams. mosphere. "The happy environSally Cowell took over in 2002. ment for both teaching and learnThe school is now full with 280 ing which Keith established conchildren, recently taking in a tinues. Everybody is important, number who have left the threat- from the newest, youngest child, to the oldest person who works ened Salt Way primary, An Ofsted report in April de- here. scribed Shaw Ridge as an exciting "It's something which parents, and successful school that gives children and staff like about Shaw pupils a very good standard of Ridge."

Busline

what's new from

Making your journey time faster -with fastfare

F Thamesdown

Improvements to bus routes .. .

Commencing Monday 1st August the Fastfare exact fare system will be introduced on Thamesdown buses operating Services Services 1 1 to t 25 inclusive This system has operating su cessfully in several British British towns and cities for many years.

In response to increasing demand from the rapidly developing areas of north Swindon, further service improvements are being introduced in this area

On boarding a Fastfare bus please place the EXACT FARE in the cash vault to the left of the driver, using coins whenever possible. Notes must be shown unfolded to the driver first, then placed in the vault PLEASE NOTE THAT DRIVERS HAVE NO ACCESS TO THE SEALED CASH VAULT AND ARE UNABLE TO GIVE CHANGE.

The present rather circuitous Service 19 from the Priory Vale and Taw Hill areas into town is being replaced during the main part of the day by a New Service 18 which will run direct between Taw Hill and the town centre every 30 minutes via Mead Way, Bridgemead and the Outlet Village. The journey ti me to Priory Vale will drop to about 20 minutes and buses will also serve the Eastbury Drive area for the first time. In the evenings Taw Hill and Priory Vale will continue to be covered by Service 19 as at present.

North Swindon Service 15 between the town centre and Wood Hall, Haydon Wick, Abbey Meads and St Andrew's Ridge is being increased in frequency from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes, plus extra early evening journeys

The Blunsdon Service 24 will no longer run via St Andrew's Ridge and Blunsdon Abbey, but will go direct to Blunsdon via Thamesdown Drive, with a new stop near Warrener Close for passengers from the Groundwell West area.

John Owen, Thamesdown's Managing Director, said "Buses can spend up to 20% of total journey ti me at stops whilst drivers dispense change which is very frustrating for passengers on the bus. Not giving change will lead to faster journey (ti mes and improved timekeeping'.

Blunsdon Abbey will have a shopping bus to Swindon. leaving at 0920 and returning at 1200 on Mondays to Fridays.

There is a new early bus on Service 12 leaving Haydon Wick (ASDA Walmart) at 0525 on Mondays to Fridays (0555 Saturdays), arriving at Fleming Way at 0544 (0614 Sets) and with onward travel opportunities to Old Town, Liden, Gorse Hill, Penhill, Park North etc.

Regular travellers will find it more convenient to use either a Day Rider (adult £2.50) or Travelpass (weekly 10) unlimited travel ticket, although when purchased on the bus the exact fare will be required. reduced price Student Travelpass is Iso being introduced and details and pplication can be obtained from our ravel Shop. n addition The Blue Bus Card stored alue ticket will continue to be availble from the Travel Shop in values of 5, £10, £15 or £20 £5 cards are also vailable on the bus. These work like phonecard and can be used to pay ares on any Thamesdown bus at any

West Swindon In response to increasing passenger demand Service 19 will be increased from every 30 minutes to every 20 minutes during the main part of the day. Most buses will continue from the town centre to GW Hospital via Queens Drive and Cavendish Square. thus providing a direct service to the Hospital from West Swindon

Enjoy a DAY OUT with us!

The last bus to West Swindon will now be Service 1 leaving Fleming Way at 2330 on Mondays to Saturdays.

SPECIAL BUSES TO THE

You can either hop off the bus at

ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR T/

Cotswold Wildlife Park and see the fascinating ;ollection of animals for a really great day out or stay on the bus and

16& 17 JULY 2005

enjoy a visit to Moreton in Marsh market and browse the bargains on display.

Shuttle buses from Swindon Bus Station at 0730 and every 20 mins until 1230. From Fairford at 1430 and every 20 mins until approx. 1900.

The journey will take you through some of the most beautiful countryside in the North Cotswolds.

Show your bus ticket at the admission/ticket office at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and gain entry at reduced price.

The X99 runs every Tuesday until 30th August 2005.

Pick up a leaflet from our Travel Shop in Fleming Way for more details,

°

Fares: £5 ADULT or £2.50 CHILD RETURN Why not get your Admission ticket for the show from our Travel Shop in Fleming Way? £29.95 ADULT (f34.95 on the day at Fairford)

r

mkM

14 The Link Magazine • July 2005

Developing big hearts and open minds Children and staff at Peatmoor Primary School had a busy time at the end of May when visitors from around the world joined them to share their school.

Twoboysandtwoteachersfrom dren need to have a wide outlook case. Our children also have astere- beng, said, "Peatmoor is a really Dihlabeng, Peatmoor's South Af- which accepts and celebrates dif- otypical view: they think every- nice school with lots of room and tons of computers. We wrote letrican partner school, spent two ferences and diversity, here in our body in Britain is white. weeks in Swindon. Their trip coin- town and across the world. It "Here we've been to Drove ters before we came, but it's nice to cided with visits by children and doesn't matter who you are, what School with Peatmoor School chil- be able to meet our friends at this teachers from two European part- you look like or your beliefs, it's dren to work on multi-cultural school. Our teaching at Dihlabeng projects and to learn about all the is in English so we can understand tier schools, one in Sweden, the what's inside that's important." other a French speaking school in Margaret Grant, headteacher at different people living in Britain. each other no problem."

Lekhetho Mofokeng,l 1, said a "We also went to the Sikh ternDihlabeng School, which has been Bilbao, Spain.

PeatmoorheadteacherTerriPea- linked to Peatmoor for over four pie, St Peter's Roman Catholic sightseeing trip to London was a cock said, "we are working to cre- years said the two schools were Church and also to Asda in West highlight. "The underground is amazing. And we really liked the ate a global dimension to the edu- looking at similarities. "Children Swindon."

Elvis Mokoena, 12, from Dihla- changing of the guard." cation offered atPeatmoor,tomake here have stereotypes of Africa, it a central part of the curriculum, often based on visions of poverty Lekhetho and Elvis with their special friend Elliott Patterson, centre, with left, not an add on interest. Our chil- and starvation, which is not the advisonl teacher ]ernl Prior z'isiting the school to talk about Goa. and right.

Dihlal ,^n 1, teachers ]o West and Margaret Grant

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Urgently Needed, Friendly Families who enjoy a new and interesting experience, to accommodate }oung foreign language students for two-week stays in the Swindon area between 26"' June and 23 '' July. r

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Good remuneration and local support is provided.

For more information, please contact Caroline Lockwood: 01666 8 60361 or 07944 496142 Swindon@OISE.com The summer school in Swindon is part of OISE Youth Language Schools — a member of ARELS and approved by the British Counc il.

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 15

Looking back 60 years in North Swindon Abbey Meads School youn gs ters During the six week project Pa rkway, said he enjoyed talking in Year 3 and Year 6 study ing grandparents and parents spent in about his wartime expeWorld War II involved all 350 time in class telling stories about rie ices as a boy. "They were fascichildren in a day to mark the 6 0th family heirlooms connected with anniversary of VE Day. the war.

A street party was followed by Grandfather Gerald Filton, 73, jitterbugging and community si ng- with three grandchildren at Abing and a 1940s sports day. bey Meads and one at Hreod

Ten years for Haydonleigh In September 1995, Haydonleigh School opened with forty children in a mobile classroom in the grounds of Greenmeadow School.

Two months later, the children, studying in 7 mobiles as well as headteacher Jon Swaffield and five the main building's eight classstaff moved into the new building rooms. located between Westfield Way As the school prepares to celand Hayden Court Drive. Within ebrate a successful 10 years' life, three years, there were 427 pupils Jon reflected on those early hectic times. "It was a good challenge with the number of children growing dramatically and with the constant need to recruit additional teachers. There has been plenty of fun and I have always appreciated working with a fine team of colleagues."

The school hopes that some of the former pupils will join in the ten year celebrations at a barbecue on Friday 1 July, 6.30pm or-

nated by the war and wanted to know about bombs and explosions.

I was keen to tell them about rearing rabbits in the garden for meat and the many brave people who were never recognised.

"I still get very emotional when I remember the tears of my mother when she received a telegram saying my father, who worked for the YMCA, was safe. He managed to get out of France two weeks after Dunkirk. But the war brought a lot of sadness to so many people."

Munn Lynn Casey, dressed up as a landgirl, with her daughter Brooklyn and Sarah O'Toole

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16 The Link Magazine • July 2005

Facing the future at Salt Way Parents driven to panic have been transferring children away from Salt Way Primary School since Swindon Council's education department announced its proposal during the Easter holidays to close the school in January 2006.

A report on the pre-statutory consultation on the closure plan goes to the Swindon Education Partnership Board (EPB) on 30 June.

The Link has learned that many of the parents the 140 children likely to be still at Salt Way this September have not responded to the council's request to state their preferred alternative school.

However, as a result of discussions with parents and governors at other primary schools, the council is going to propose to the EPB that Salt Way ,.,,,., _^ stays open until July 2006. In the meantime new buildings would be provided at Shaw Ridge, which will expand to two forms of entry.

Furthermore the council would be s`' looking to governors at Salt Way and " .r , (t Shaw Ridge to work together to en sure continuity of employment for 1r K41 ^, teaching and support staff so that ^ y ^, ^► • , ^ n they can transfer with the children to `" ^ Shaw Ridge when Salt Way closes. .`^ t Should the EPB agree to the solu.^ La i r 'r y^^ ' tion, a statutory notice will be issued, { a but a final decision on shutting Salt ^ ^e,, ' .

Way will not be made until October, tr, after all the legal requirements have s t , been met. By then the council hopes to have reached agreement with governors and the majority of parents for its proposal. ' IMP }

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FOR SALE Complete hairdressing and beauty salon equipment with accessories and kitchenware.

All you need to start your own hairdressing business.

Bargain price: offers £6,000 ono.

Will include premium hair products free to the value of £1.500 for quick sale + a free Amstrad personal communication centre.

Shop lease also available in prime

location. Illness forces sale.

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ATTENTION ALL PARENTS

Music, Singing & Movement For children aged ,)' o JtA g

e

: 6 mon+hs-5 yrs f iS 'ne 6t Fun sassions r1 with an educe+ional slant CLASSES IN:

ABBEY MEADS (Tue & Fri) WEST SWINbON (Wed & Fri) Call Virginia on 01453 839464 www. jojinglas.com

Busy babies

Letting crafty talents flow

Got a youngster under the age of When Emma Western arrived in Abbey Meads last December she 18 months and don't know where discovered there wasn't a craft group similar to the one her toddler to take them?

Ewan enjoyed in Australia.

Busy Fingers parentand toddler So she decided to set group in Hayden W ick are spawn- up Crafty Little Moning an offspring group called Baby keys and invite other Busy Fingers as a stepping-stone parents and toddlers to into the older group. join in. Emma said, Parents are invited to register "children absolutely for Baby Busy Fingers at tryout love trying out differsessions in the Hayden Centre on ent activities. Parents Thames Avenue on Tuesdays: 12 are reluctant to do art July and 19 July, 9.30am to 11ain. at home because it's If you are unable to make the messy and toddlers sessions but would like further then move onto someinformation, call Debbie Musa- thingelse.AtCraftyLitEiggie on 496900 or 07887 754426. tle Monkeys, all the equipment and materials are provided around Pre-School Places structured activities.

"Children develop r` "J in West Swindon colour recognition, tine Outstanding early education con fid enc motors is on offer to parents independence, and nd who want their children p en de nce, Crraafty familri, Emma ,, till Ir dp from hu4, whilst all the time talk- z1,lnj,t Ezoan dcrnonstrutcs u'/iat the ,group ail i/ rut to have the best possible ingg about what they're start to their schooling. doing, have a lot of fun and take a days.

Places are still available for A Wednesday morning session piece of art home. And I do all the three to five year olds at at Roughmoor Social Hall is clearing up afterwards."

Westlea Pre School Crafty Little Monkeys meets for planned from September.

For details. to arrange a visit For details call Emma on 702228 45 minute sessions at 1.30pm, at or to register a child, call into Abbey Meads School on Thurs- or mail: em ma@craftylittle the George & Anne Tweed Room days and Peatmoor School on Fri- monkeys.co.uk in the grounds of Westlea Primary School. Langstone Way or call 881785.

musi cam, bu9 s f

fun music sessions for children aged 6 months - preschool

Nursey rhymes, bubbles, puppets, scarves porn pours, animal masks, teddies parachute games and instruments Classes everyday throughout Swindon 6 surrounding areas

40 minute sessions, NO JOINING FEE!

Book your free trial session Call Claire on (01793) 722072 www.musicbugs.co.uk

Well equipped facilitie a superb environment

Books & babes go together The June Link featured a new group set up by Abbey Meads mum Sharon Clift, below, which brings mums and toddlers together to enjoy : ;`. books, story telling and language. But we did not provide '1 a contact point.

Book Babes meets e, during term time on j,_____ Fridays 10.25am at f ^^ Lawn Community Centre and 1.15pm at Peatmoor Primary School.

Call Sharon on

Fundraising for metabolic research Sunday 3 July 11 am - 4pm, Haydon Wick Farmhouse, Pond Street in aid of CLIMB, in memory of Jamie Lewis Kirk, aged 13 days

Stalls. hand massage, raffle, refreshments, meet the neighbours CLIMB (Children, Living with Inherited MetaBolic Diseases) is the organisation that supports many families throughout the United Kingdom during devastating times.

For details call Janet Garrett on 727158 www.climb.org.uk

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For information telephone:

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Brinkworth Road. Wootton Bassett. Swindon SN4 8DS

The Link Magazine • July 2005 19

High praise for nursery Ridgeway Nursery at Wroughton has been given a top rating after an Ofsted inspection for both nursery care and pre-school education.

Mobile Hairdresser

The inspectors commented on the good support in developing chil

=

dren'sinde endenceand

""^q ,+^ re self-estee and the chil e dren's confidence to ex 1: plore within and outside -the nursery building demonstrating good spa 1 ^ tial awareness. ': " The report also refers to how mu ch the children enjoy exploring books and quickly recognize familiar words and how they love designing and building with construc- Ridgeway Nursery manager Theresa Birch piction materials. The strong tured last September when the nursery received the focus on calculating and National Day Nursery Quality Counts award solving simple mathematical problems is commended, change and staffing issues.

The care report awarded the Ridgeway Nursery is part of nursery the highest level of attain- Asquith Nurseries Limited. It is ment and remarked on the high registered to care for 60 children standard of care and stimulation aged between three months and offered in the baby unit, five years per session. RegistraThe Ofsted report says commu- tions are being taken for the new nication with parents is very good: baby unit. they are provided with detailed To visit Ridgeway Nursery, call information about their children Theresa Birch on 845572. and the staff are always available to spend time talking to them.

Nursery manager Theresa Birch Walk for your said she was delighted with the favourite charity report. "I am absolutely thrilled with how hard all the staff have The Swindon leg of the Kellogg's worked towards receiving this Corn Flakes Great Walk comes to significant recognition. It really Lydiard Park on 12 August. was a great team effort; the report Stretch out on a 10k course highlighted so many of the staff's around the park in aid of a charity, excellent attributes." school or community project of She particularly mentioned the your choice. workofpre-schoolteacherPauline All ages and abilities can join in Reilly who has supported staff to making it a fun day out for all the use every opportunity to develop family. Enter as an individual or in children's understanding of math- a group and enjoy Lydiard's beauty ematics and historic splendour.

In addition to the excellent re- Walks organised by Kellogg's port, Theresa recently achieved Corn Flakes are taking place across NVQlevel4inManagementwhich the country, designed to get penexceeds the skills expected of a pie active and raising money. nursery manager and allows For details, log on to: Theresa to deal effectively with www.great-walk.org

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21

Swindon & Cricklade Railway Diesel Unit/ 'Thumper' Weekend Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th June Murder Mystery Evening'` Saturday 16th July

THE LINK MAL ZINE'S COIL

-4

AhoUND SWINDON

TAOPO L E L nh Blunsdon Station , r NORTH ° SWINDON Tadpole Lane Tel: 771615 Trains: 11 am - 4pm . , „avpoN WEST 3 Cafe, shop and SWINDON free parking «.

a°pp

WICK

Spectacle in the streets This year's Swindon Summer Festival starts on Wednesday 13 July and promises to get everyone's senses sparkling.

The weekend will kick off _ Over 30 acts giving 70 free with the colourful carnival performances will appear t parade down Regent Street j • i over the five-day extravaon the theme of Cultural ganza in the town centre. AlTales.' ternative and zany comediOne of the highlights of ans. professional festival the festival will be Saurus music, plus dance and specwho perform with five metre tacular acrobatic displays will high dinosaurs. and Titan surprise and delight at every the giant robot. turn, The festival concludes on The festival, organised by I i Sunday 17 July with Walk Swindon Council's Arts Servthe Plank's pyrotechnics f ices, is sponsored by The and stilt walkers teaming up , Dettol Foundation, set up by with Punjabi drummers, the .

Swindon based company Dhol Academy. fora big carU >I. Reckitt Benckiser which has sponsored the event for the last appear at the Parade outside nival street party finale. www.swindonartscape.co.uk Debenhams. There will also be five years.

Emma Gilbert of the foundation breaths to be gasped as Tanzasaid. "the festival is a fantastic an- nian group. the High Flyers, disnual event that brings all of Swin- play their acrobatic talents.

Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July don's communities together and is is 'The Big Weekend' when 25 procause for all to celebrate."

The festival begins on Wednes- fessional companies will be on the day 13 July when a Gothic Don streets playing music. walking the Quixote called 'Paka' and his in- trapeze, doing comedy shows, credible full size metallic horse will dancing and much more.

'Ticket only event. £12 inc buffet. Call 692588 www.swindon-cricklade-r ailway.org

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

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

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

Multi-culture party in the Old Town park Swindon will celebrate all things fantastic from the Indian sub-continent at the third Mela on Saturday 30 July at Town Gardens in Old Town.

Last year the day attracted 1 5,000 people from across Swindon and other parts of the country and lived up to its description as a great outdoor party.

Organised by members of the Swindon Mela committee in tandem with Swindon Council and sponsored by NatWest, the Mela starts at 12noon and includes a range of professional Asian performers as well as local and regional talent.

A wide range of activities will be on offer from cookery demonstrations, to Indian head massage, yoga and Reiki in the Health Zone, plus bouncy castles and face painting in the Kids Zone.

The Mela Market will host 50 stalls offering clothes, jewellery, accessories and arts and crafts, as well as mouthwatering Indian food.

All activities and entertainment are free of charge up to 7pm.

In the evening the Old Town Bowl will be jumping to the brilliant Bhangra beat of Alaap and Mona Singh. See opposite for tickets. www.swindonmela.com www.swindonartscape.co.uk

ST

22

Sw,rdo Wide Win a meal for two at The Canteen

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd

MB Mortgage Brokers

Providing mortgages services for the community since 1987

LOOKING FOR A MORTGAGE

'Good, honest food' is how Justin Britchford describes the concept of his new restaurant. The Canteen at The Apartment in Havelock Square.

"We wanted to create a relaxed atmosphere in comfortable surrou ndings for people to enjoy great food without breaking the bank."

Helping him achieve those aims in the kitchen are Stuart Pollock, until recently at the De Vere Hotel and Daniel Townly who comes from the Michelin starred Bohemia restaurant in Jersey.

The Canteen offers lunch from midday to 3pm on weekdays and 12noon to 4pm on Saturdays. The

kitchen is geared up to deliver quality in quick time. The Canteen's promise is that if your meal does not arrive within 20 minutes. the bill will be twenty per cent less.

Dinner is served from 7pm until 11 pm in a stylishly relaxed atmosphere and includes complimentary entrance to the VIP lounge or The Apartment club.

Now you have a chance to find out if the claims for The Canteen are right. To win a three course meal for two, including a bottle of house wine, tell us where the restaurant is located by 15 July. Write to or mail The Link. address on page 4.

The fight for Swindon's heritage goes on

Review your mortgage now and you might go on holiday better off

The argument as to whether the crumbling Mechanics' Institute should be redeveloped as a hotel comes to a head in the Autumn when a planning enquiry considers its future.

The New Mechanics' Trust, which has been battling to save the building as a town centre community and cultural centre, holds its Annual General Meeting on 7 July, 6.30pm for 7pm, when a report on preparations for the planning debate will be given.

Members are invited to attend. Newcomers can join on the evening, but will not be eligible to vote.

The meeting takes place in the Community Crossroads, (former railway museum).

For details call 520592.

We may be able to find you a lower interest rate.

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

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

There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it will be ÂŁ300.

However, no completion no fee Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK

TO

â&#x20AC;˘ TRANS A RRCTN E%PDRiON

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

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

Swindon

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

Open every week-day in August and the first weekend of every month Tel: 01793 846200 www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/wroughton

.

Swirdlnr Wide at The Old Town FestivcAl 2005 Discover Old Town and its festival The Old Town Festival always bandstand in Town Gardens. , ir/I 19isc Drew

23 ^j;

co

provides fun and frolics for the Swindon residents who can't resist its charm, and this summer it promises to be bigger and better than ever be-

To get you really in the spirit of revelry on Friday 1 July. for the first time. there will be a Medieval supper in

fore.

complete with hog roast. a court jester, music and a shoot-out from the Santa-Fe gunfighters.

Old Town is off the beaten track for many in the newer parts of Swindon. So the Old

The finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking & South East Asian Cuisine

Town Festival is a great excuse to take part in a big.

Tel: (01793) 521515

a marquee on The Lawn.

The event runs from 23 June to 3 July and the organisers are confident that there is something on the bill for all

ages and tastes. Wood Street will be closed for a Victorian themed day on 25 June. The

main events take place on the first weekend of July with

Dressing up has always been a fun way to take part in the Old Town Festiva/

a fancy dress procession

around the streets of Old Town, a farmers' market in Godwin Court and a fete on The Lawn on Saturday 2 July.

On Sunday 3 July the atmos-

phere again harks back to Victori an days with stalls and attracti ons around the Grade II listed

noisy and colourful community event, whilst discovering the shops and cafes that you won't find elsewhere.

See overleaf for highlights of the festival weekend.

Swindon Jazz Festival, 25 June to 3 July, in concert, with the Old Town Festival and outdoors, offering trad, blues, main stream and modern.

Full listings in the Old Town Festival programme, available from

Now yot^ve ^omA

Do you need a hat but don't want to BUY one?

Then cnll >:as►

In Haydon Wick (01793) 704005 or

Great musicians delivering live music in the pubs. clubs and cafes,

www.oldtownfestival.org.uk

53 Devizes Road Swindon

The Maa Hatter

Twenty gigs in and around the festival, 15 of which are free.

Swindon Information Centre. 37 Regent Street, Old Town Festival Office in Wood Street. or from Swindon Jazz Society, mail: info@swindonjazz.co.uk

Fully Licensed

07710 298790

In the groove with the Robin Jones Latin Jazz Sextet

f

to see the large selection of Hats to HIRE! Make a personal appointment to fi nd just the right hat for you

Ca4nat EB 'vi3e,o

Yov PY^^ce... y.

Open:

Monday by appointment.

Tuesday to

Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm.

Late night Thursday until 9pm.

Choosing your wedding venue is your next big decision so call us now to discuss your requirements and help make your wedding day extra special.

-tel

:

0\7

72\7O1 Best Western Premier

Blunsdon House Hotel generations of exceptional service

www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

Contemporary, Funky or Traditional ... are you looking for something a little different?

Look no further th an Harmony B ri des in Devizes Road Bridal • Bridesmaids • Prom • Eveningwear • Accessories

Call 01793 613000 to make an appointment 55b Devizes Road Old Town, Swindon

O

DEVIZES RD

VICTORIA RD

mP

24

W14e (At th!

Wi.IGh i

hotter Tino

OLD TOWN HARDWARE

£45 Other styles and colours in stock

BLAYLOCKS FAMILY SHOE SHOP Bath Road Corner, Old Town

Tel: 534271

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THE HOME fhewkole yeas vou#tA The small business with a huge range and the old Limmex reputation

14 Wood Street, Old Town Swindon Tel: (01793) 433331

b>: .^ a

Individual fashions for the

discerning lady

i

-^te a

GILB RTS SWI DON THE PREMIER OLD TOWN CARPET STORE

GILBERTS GENUINE SUMMER SALE * 10% off all carpets 15% off all upholstery

Saturday 2 July - on the streets and on The Lawn Street procession starts 11.30am From High Street, around Old Town to The Lawn for judging at 12.20pm Entertainment on The Lawn 10am The Lawn open to the public. Flower display at Holy Rood Church ( Old Town's parish church from 1154 to 1852) 12.30pm - 5pm In the arena Displays by local schools, juggling shows and workshops Lee Childs Martial Arts Academy Sword fencing Moloney Irish Dancers Gymnastics Tai Chi Chuan demonstration with free taster sessions In the showground Barrel organ Punch and Judy Dorcan Performing Arts The Hounds of the Morrigan medieval reenactment including archery and Wild West gunfighters Jackie the Clown, fairground, bouncy castles, sports, stalls, refreshments

1 pm - 3.30p; 6 Jazz on The Lawn - Mr Ray's Trad Jazz Band

Plus free jazz performances all day in the pubs, clubs and bars

Other attractions Friday 1 July, 7pm. Marquee on The Lawn.

Medieval Supper Compere Roly Gillard assisted by the Hounds of the Morrigan & Santa Fe Gunfighters, court jester, bawdy wench, clown, magician & juggler hog roast, licenced bar, music, disco. T,ckets£141ronz the festival office in Wood Street Saturday 2 July. 7.30pm Summer Concert. Swindon Choral Society performing Handel's 'Alexander's Feast'. £8/£6 Bath Fload Method/st Church. Tickets from 521822 or the Arts Centre.

.oral F Luuf

inc. special orders

• CARPETS • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL • UNDERLAY ACCESSORIES

* 10% off lamps, mirrors, pictures, etc.

No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions

Free measuring & titling service with quality service and choice

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Tel: 01793 431992

UST THE RIGHT DICE AND THE TRUE VALUI from the start Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

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

25

Old Town Festival 2.005 Sunday 3 July - in the Town Gardens 10am to 5pm General area Stalls, face painting. fairground, bouncy castle. Punch and Judy Croquet instruction Refresments including licenced bar Demonstrations: Sword fencing display Swindon Bluebells Majorettes Santa Fe Gunfighters The Hounds of The Morrigan Medieval Archers In The Bowl 11am Songs of Praise - with Swindon Youth Jazz Orchestra 12.15pm - 12.45pm Tanwood School of Performing Arts 1 pm - 2pm Commonweal School Performing Arts 2.15pm - 2.45pm Moloney School of Irish Dance 2.45pm - 3.45pm K School of Music 4pm - 5.30pm The Guitar School

Ion Trying to find that something different'?

ART GALLERY

Then pay us a visit.

Unusual gifts, wooden toys and jewellery for that treat for yourself or someone special

10 Wood Street O1d town Tel: 511099

<' ¢ "'

www.dandelionswindon.co.uk

Y

See a superb collection of Modern Artwork at prices to suit all budgets.

Not sure if a picture will

look good in your house?

Then Try before you Buy'

h y

Circus and juggling workshops all day.

Experience Holistic Living. Sunday 3 July, 10am to 5.30pm Relax and entwine with the various therapies available within the Holistic Living Zone in the Town Gardens.

Experience the effects of homeopathy, reflexology, aromatherapy and Reiki and find out how homeopathy and changing your diet can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Take part in Tai Chi with Graham Pritchard.

Victorian themed day - Saturday 25 June, 9am - 5.30pm Stalls, performances, entertainment in Wood Street and Godwin Court

Free concert - Saturday 25 June, 5.30pm - 10pm Local bands performing in the Town Gardens Bowl including Edwards Empire. Mighty Urban Creatures, The Last Calm, Nova, Penfold

World music in The Bowl Saturday 2 July, doors 6pm Jazz Jamaica blend ska. reggae and jazz to present Motown Reloaded Bar & hot themed food. Adu/t£/2 concession £10: family £32 (tickets cheaper in advance, from 530328).

Bring this advert to receive 1 0% off your first purchase Offer ends 31/7/05

65 Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 641353 www.hallidayart.co.uk

• DEACONS

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Bringing Lydiard TREE WORKS PUBLIC

CONSULTATION HE restoration of T Lydiard's ornamental parkland and gardens is set to begin this September, subject to a ÂŁ3.1 million award from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Project leader Sarah Finch-Crisp describes how this restoration will involve important woodland works to reinstate the lost lake, and the planting of thousands of new trees.

Sonic trees are to be felled to reduce the spread of disease

Visitors to the park in recent months may have noticed a number of trees in the woodlands, which have a red dot painted on them. Please do not be alarmed!

As our notices describe, we are proposing to fell, thin or coppice these trees as part of a carefully planned and managed restoration and woodland management programme.

Beginning this Autumn we are planning to restore about four acres of scrub and young conifer plantation to ornamental lake,

open parkland and reed beds for wildlife. This will involve the coppicing or felling of several hundred trees of all sizes, including nearly 50 large trees, mainly sycamores and squirreldamaged maples.

Apart from reinstating historic features such as the lake, the reasons for fel li ng are various, including where they pose a danger to the public or are damaging buildings and historic structures. We will also be thinning trees to favour the best trees (silviculture) which will provide a mix of long-lived traditional, ornamental, historic and native trees, based on Lydiard's historic records and species which best fit the site.

Thinning works are also to protect or maintain wildlife habitats, to improve light and a sense of security along paths, to reduce the spread of disease and to allow regeneration and replanting of dead, dying or damaged trees.

These works will be more th an compensated for by the planting of over 400 parkland trees in the wider park and 11,000 trees in two new native woodlands within the park. Over the following five years, we also plan to bring over 30 acres of the woodland back into traditional active management, by selective thinning, coppicing, hedgelaying and replanting gaps. This management is essential to favour long-lived species, like oak and beech in place of short-lived

Restoring Lydiards' lakes. Left, the existing

but faster growing shrubs like elder; and also to

remove diseased elms and alders.

Without this management, Lydiard would lose almost all of its ancient trees within fifty years, and have no Thinning to favour the best trees - silviculture middle-aged trees to replace them. We aim to avoid ever having to completely clear and replant woodland by replacing a few trees each year.

Lydiard's oldest trees are some

Important veteran trees will be kept to their maximum, safe biological life, through pruning and management.

TREE TOURS OF LYDIARD PARK 1 July, 11 am and 26 July, 2pm Tree Tours of Lydiard Park with Lead Project Consultant Simon Bonvoisin Simon is a Chartered Forrester and Arboriculturalist, and author of the conservation plans for Westonbirt Arboretum and Bedgebury Pinetum Sensible footwear recommended. Meet on front steps of Lydiard House

Wilde on Lydi^ 'The Importance of

Lydiard Park is the venue for an exciting open-air w evening performance of Oscar Wilde's classic comedy on Saturday 16 July, 7.30pm, by the acclaimed touring theatre company, Heartbreak Productions.

With sparkling wit, humour and social satire, the play focuses on the upper classes of Vic providing deep insights whilst ma k and excesses.

Director, Maddy Kerr, has set thi,1 summer of 1939, with Wilde's outr up in their bubble of frivolity blissf worldwide horrors about to unfold Bring along a picnic, refreshmen li ve jazz music from Fretless & Friei unique outdoor theatre experience floodlit Lydiard House.

Tickets f10 (f6 Juniors) are avai Information Centre, Regent Street, tel. 445566 and Lydiard House, tel. recommended as tickets are limitee performance. www.heartbreak

ark back to its best Cedar of Lebanon. These trees have especial value in the landscape, for wildlife (including fungi, bats, birds and insects) as well as being beautiful evidence of historic planting. These trees are to be conserved to their maximum safe useful life, if necessary by reducing their crowns and diverting public paths.

In respect of the memorial tree area which is obviously a matter of great sensitivity to many people; this area will be cared for and kept tidy with the intention that the young plantings will, over time, grow into mature and attractive ornamental '.` woodland consistent with the improvements in the rest of the park.

However we are aware that some trees may have been

Fhe lower lake. Right, as it will look in 2006-7

^f the most beautiful nd best loved, and a .ey feature of the park andscape and history the survival of these eteran ornamental rees. They are mainly iorse chestnuts from he mid 18th and early 9th Centuries, but also iclude over-mature Beech, lime, one valnut, a yew in the hurchyard and a

informally planted around the parkland as memorials, and we would be very grateful for any information regarding these.

The tree works at Lydiard Park are supported by The Great Western Community Forest and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, both of whom have been involved in the wider project development works. However the project team are very keen and happy to discuss and share tree works information with anyone who is interested in finding out more about the plans or has any queries or concerns.

Please do join us on one of our Tree Tours on 1 and 26 July starting from the steps of the house.

dDon BOROUGH COUOC1L

Supported by the National Lottery through the

Some trees pose a danger to the public

Heritage Lottery Fund

Sunday 3 July, 1lam to 5pm fora Grand Garden Party.

Enjoy traditional entertainment with displays of maypole and country

J . F,

dancing from local school

.t e

children, jazz music from Fretless and Friends and croquet on the front lawn.

^•

In the Walled Garden, children can join experts from Wessex Archaeology

°" !.

in a hands-on archaeological dig and watch a medieval archery display.

There will be horses in the stable, children's craft activities and a Victorian style cricket match on the sports field. Inside Lydiard House, there will be a recorder recital from Swindon Young Musicians and you can watch volunteers embroidering beautiful bed coverings in the State Rooms. The famous St John family triptych will be open inside St Mary's Church.

The church will welcome the new Bishop of Swindon at a special Songs of Praise service at 6.30pm.

All activities are free and there will be opportunities to find out more about the f5.3million restoration project. You can

eop^e °

also find out more about The Friends of Lydiard Park — a new od^^Q

charity set up to support the continued enhancement of the house and its furnishings and the current historic landscape restoration.

ofks ^I 11

p

^Y(Jiw-d I- " n Grand Garden Party Sunday 3rd July 2005, 1

cxe° C

lam —

Lydian Trego , Swindon Bus I & I A from Flemming Way

5pm

routes

28

Swind& Wide Wit's Line Dance

Curtains & Pelmets Curtains are hand-stitched at sides and hems.

• City & Guilds qualified • Goblets / triple plea hand made • Swags & tails, tailor made

with

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

''

Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00

-Tie - backs

Roman blinds • Pelmets Valances • Free home visiting service 100% cotton sateen lining • Tracking & pelmets installed

Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socia/s in Highworth and Swindon

Call Pat on 01793 695862 or 07760 197510 pat@curtainandpelmets.co.u k

For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

Children and Family Events Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd July, 10am to 4.30pm Small Blue Planet. A new exhibition celebrating Einstein's work on relativity, with rockets, satellites, telescopes and more. Travel back through the ages to discover how far mankind has come in its quest to understand the Earth and its place in the Universe. Free. Science Museum Wroughton Saturday 2nd, 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm Fantastic Finds Day. Archaeologist Katie Hinds and palaeontologist Dr Neville Hollingworth will look at any finds you would like to bring in.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th.

rienr

a lifetime! 11am - 4pm Diesel Unit 'Thumper' weekend.

Swindon & Crick/ade Railway See ... ' advert on page 21. for someone ',aturday 16th to Sunday 24th National Archaeology Week. More excavation work is planned at the Groundwell Ridge Roman site in North Swindon. Site tours and other activities run by English Heritage and the Friends of Groundwell Ridge.

See story on page 32. For more 3 II 01 /93 /91 U14 or mail: sarr_„ I I , information ca// Swindon Museum & Art Ga//ery • kw.re' lel!1. "If'a il , • t

Something different special!

iihts from £50 for 30 minutes

From Saturday 23rd The Secret Visitors. Holiday trail through the State Rooms. Put on your detective hats to discover some unusual house guests. Normal admission charge. Lydiard House Wednesday 27th, 11am & 2pm Bug Hunt with Lydiard ranger. Free but booking essentia/, call 770401.

Lydiard Park

Fundraising Events Abbey Meads School 70s themed Quiz Night Friday 1 July Teams wanted. Call 723239 Brookfield School Super Space Summer Fayre Saturday 2 July, 11am - 1pm To be opened by Spacey the Space Adventure Monkey Stalls. tombola. coconut shy. beat the goalie, bar, hot food, raffle Westlea School Fete Saturday 9 July, 1.30pm Barbecue, raffle, stalls, games St Augustine's Church Summer Fayre Summers Street, Rodbourne Saturday 9 July, 11am - 4pm Circus theme, stalls, games. refreshments, ploughman's lunches Abbey Meads School Fete Saturday 16 July, 2pm - 5pm Barbecue, bar, stalls, games

Come rain or shine at

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts

^vBS Fq Y^

4`

High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch ' Tapestry ~ Rowan

OPEN DAILY I0.30am - 5.00pm

—

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon Tel: 01793 763939 Map:www.rovesfarm.co.uk

Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns y

We'll also gladly order an thing else you need.

Dolls houses t- miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the Stable A great selection of

9 '

= •

* Meet and feed the animals * Tractor and trailer rides & electric tractors

* Take a stroll around our 7 different natu re trails * Animal racing for charity * Huge big hale straw stack & bouncy castle

local pottery.

Also: China seconds

* Adventure play area and giant sandpit

from Stoke-on-Trent

* The largest living willow maze in the world!

In the Garden

* Willow' village to explore and picnic in

Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world

* Indoor heated toddlers soft play & sandpit

Mon to Sat 10to5 Sun11 to5

*

Crafty Italf* hour!

FOR

BARN DANCES, WEDDING RECEPTIONS & CHILDREN'S I PARTIES s

* Granary Tea Rooms - homemade cakes!

L1

^i

Cr

29

irn )ul1

Music

Saturday 9th, 7.30pm

Black Umfolosi 5.

Sweet sounds of acapella with marvell ous harmonies and gospel singing as well as captivating dancing including the gumboot dancing of South Africa. £12.

Wyvern Wednesday 29th June to Saturday 2nd July, 7.30pm & Sat mat 2.30pm Ray Dance and Judith Sharp:

Brigadoon. The village of Brigadoon, locked in the distant past. comes back to life for one day every hundred years. All the ingredients for a great musical: comedy, romance, pathos, dancing and memorable music. £7 Arts Centre Saturday 2nd, 8pm A Night at the The Musicals starring Duncan Breeze. Sensational voices. scintillating dance routines, superb musicians. £14.50 Wyvern Saturday 2 July, doors 6pm World Music - Seepage 25 Friday 8th, 7.30pm Vince Hill. The former Coventry miner blossomed into one of this country's most accomplished and versatile entertainers following the success of Ede/weissover 30 years ago. £11. Wyvern

Studley Grange

garden & *Isar* pai*

Saturday 9th, 12noon - 9pm Swindon Afro-Caribbean Carnival.

Local and main stream artists, steel band, dancers, entertainers, cultural stalls, bouncy castle. In association with Swindon Council and Wiltshire Police. Buckhurst Park Wa/cot. For more info call 537939 Sunday 10th, 7.30pm Sounds Magical presented by The Janice Thompson Performance Trust. A celebration of work achieved in classes, workshops and concerts throughout the year. £8 Wyvern Friday 15th and Saturday 16th Time Waves presented by Propel Theatre Arts Academy. Music, drama and dance from the students of this local group. £5 Arts Centre Saturday 16th, doors 6pm World Music: Osibisa - Afro Funk. £12. concessions available, tickets cheaper in advance. call 530328..

The Bowl Town Gardens

Friday 22nd, 7.30pm Aria International Gospel Choir with singers drawn from diverse ethnic backgrounds around the world.

They entertain in a vibrant, upbeat R&B style. £10. Wyvern Saturday 23rd, 8pm Abba Mania. Celebrate the music and style of Abba Mania, reviving memories of when Abba ruled the airwaves. £16. Wyvern Saturday 30th, doors 6pm World Music: Alaap & Mona Singh - Bhangra following the Mela - see advert on page 20. £12. concessions available, tickets cheaperin advance. ca11530328. The Bowl Town Gardens

Theatre Wednesday 6th to Sat 9th, 7.30pm Caught in the Net presented by Western Players. Chaos, intrigue and deception are inevitable in Ray Clooney's hilarious farce as bigamist John Smith tries to prevent his teenage son from one family meeting his daughter from the other, after they 'meet' on the Internet. £5 Arts Centre Saturday 16th, 7.30pm The Importance of Being Earnest

by Heartbreak Productions. Oscar Wilde on Lydiard's lawn. £10/£6.

Lydiard Park. Bring a picnic etc. For tickets ca/1466454 or 08700 600100

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Film Monday 4th, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Alexander (15) Oliver Stone's bio-pic of Alexander the Great whose armies conquered 90 per cent of the known world.

Starring Anthony Hopkins, Val Kilmer.

Brian Blessed and AngelinaJolie. £3 matinee/£4 evening. Wyvern

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Science Museum Wroughton.

Tel: 846200 Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

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

Wide What 's Cr it JU14

Tuesday 12th, 7.45pm Wednesday 13th, 7.45pm Ladies in Lavender (12A) Charles Dance directs Dame Judi Dench and Maggie Smith in this period tale set in the 1930s. Two spinsters find a Polish castaway on the beach and nurse him back to health. £4. Arts Centre Tuesday 19th, 7.15pm Grease 1 & Grease 2 (PG) Relive the summer night magic all over again with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Followed by the 1 982 sequel featuring Maxwell Caulfield and Michell Pfeiffer. £5 Wyvern Wednesday 20th, 7.15pm The Blair Witch Project & Blair Witch 2: Book of Shadows (15) Venture into the woods to discover the legacy of the 'Blair Witch'. £5 Wyvern Thursday 21st, 7.15pm Bridget Jones's Diary & Bridget Jones 2.. The Edge of Reason (15) Renee Zellweger. Colin Firth and Hugh Grant give you twice the insight into the crazy world of Bridget Jones. £5 Wyvern

Exhibitions

Dance

Arts Centre Tuesday 5th to Thursday 28th Jenny Fry: Taking Hold of a Moment Photographs with strong colour values, bringing to life the forms and fragility of structure.

Great Western Hospital Chris Hoggett: The Stone Pit The configuration of the land - the weathered rock of a disused quarry; growth and decay of elder between fissured stone - all have contributed to this sequence of work.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Fabulous Fossils Ammonites, mammoth bones and fossilised wood, many of them discovered in sites around Swindon.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery 1940s: art for a new world Swindon Art Gallery celebrates the establishment of the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art at the end of World War II.

Friday 15th & Saturday 16th, 7.30pm Rhythm & Rhyme 25. An evening of dance and music reflecting the impressive and diverse range of styles which makes Swindon Dance

unique. £9.50. Wyvern

Comedy Friday 1st, 7.30pm The Keith Barret Show - Live. Rob Brydon plays the hapless chauffeur, Keith Barret. whofirst found notoriety in the award winning comedy Marion & Geoff. £14.50 Wyvern

Talks Monday 4th, 7pm Small Blue Planet. In conjunction with the new exhibition celebrating Einstein's work on relativity, this lecture examines how Einstein changed the way we think about science and the universe. Free.

Science Museum Wroughton

Tootleabrook WI Wednesday 20 July, 7.30pm Toothill Community Centre Neil Pullen of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will speak on Wildlife in Swindon All welcome. For more information call Jean Brock on 539456

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Diggers return to the search for clues to Swindon's Roman past Following the success of last year's community archaeology project at Groundwell Ridge. English Heritage and Swindon Borough Council will again be excavating at the North Swindon site in July. Dr Pete Wilson, Head of Research Policy (Roman Archaeology) at English Heritage describes the aim of the dig and invites the public to visit.

This year we will be working with a new partner organisation, Wessex Archaeology based in Salisbury who will be providing most of the paid staff.

The focus of the project will again be community archaeology and the professional team will be working alongside volunteers from the Friends of Groundwell Ridge.

Last year the bulk of the work was concentrated on Building 2, the one damaged in 1996, where we excavated a 1.7 metre deep cellar and part of the villas bath suite. While on the western side of the site we cut a trench across what we thought might be a Roman road and proved it was medieval.

Learning from last year when the volunteers helped with the back-breaking task of deturfing, this year the paid archaeologists will be doing that and also removing the soil used to backfill the site after last year's excavation.

There will be an on-site display of material along with posters relating to the archaeology of the area. Earlier this year we produced a booklet on the project to date which will be available during the excavation and also from Swindon Museum and Art Gallery in Bath Road.

We hope that the professional team will be on site from 27 June with the volunteers starting on Tuesday 5 July.

Searching for answers. The pub//c gallery at last year's dig watch the archaeo/gists working out what they've uncovered

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Our project in July will be on a smaller scale as we are setting out to answer a particular question how did the hot range of the baths develop?

Last year we got the plan of the cold range and a wonderfully wellpreserved cold plunge bath. But in the hot range we were faced with a complex sequence that included a massive layer of broken tile, be/ow right and an apparent replanning of the baths during their use. This may have involved the replacement of a number of smaller rooms with one larger, though we have seen so little of the earlier version that we cannot be sure.

What we do know is that there were two separate furnaces serving the hot range which suggests that either, one replaced the other or. if they were contemporary, that the hot range in its earlier phase was subdivided.

We will be working from Monday to Friday in the first week, but our normal week will be Tuesday to Saturday. Visitors will be welcome every working day.

During National Archaeology Week we will be conducting site tours on Sundays 16 and 24 July.

We hope to see people who visited us last year and those who would like to learn about the Groundwell Project.

To contact the Friends of Groundwell Ridge, call Isobel Thompson on 466559.

The Link Magazine • July 2005 33

Alfresco dining at the Park Brasserie, Breakfast, lunch and dinner (weathe permitting)

Dine in our Courtyard ,Friday, Saturday or Sunday:..and indulge in a plate of freshly cooked barbecue food and accompaniments for just: E12.95 per person. (Weather permitting)

Sheila and Oliver Cleary welcome you to their new non-smoking airconditioned conservatory restaurant.

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Avast there, all aboard for the reading voyage The children of Swindon take off on a free summer holiday journey of discovery thanks to the library service, an adventure starting on 23 July that will provide lifelong pleasure through books. '

Children will be given their own

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Help for parents Swindon Libraries are running a series of free workshops for parents and carers who would like to learn howto encouragetheirchild's reading and improve their storytelling skills. For details call Rachel Douglass on 707131 or mail:

A solution could be on the horizon for the embarrassment that has been Swindon's central library for fifty years.

The reference library, presently shoe-horned into part of the town hall off Commercial Road and the adjacent lending library occupying a motley collection of mobiles could be swept away if Swindon Council plans to extend the town hall with a new building go through.

Council leader Mike Bawden wants to see a start on the library by April 2006, which will include a one-stop shop information centre on council services. He wants the project to give a kick-start to the plans to regenerate the town centre.

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Th e Link Magazine • July 2005

Huge boost for netball club An article about Swindon's longest running netball club in the June Link has generated a 'fantastic response' according to club organiser Joy Blake.

Our piece on Ferndale Netball in the league. Now we may be Club, including photographs of the entering a third." club when it formed in the 1920s Joy is happy to train players who and the present squad, encouraged enjoy the exercise and fun side of the game and don't want to commore than 50 people to call.

"I was almost overwhelmed af- mit themselves to competitive fixter The Link came out," said Joy. tures. She is also keen to attract "The phone was literally hot; my school girls who want to develop family started having a go at me their game in an adult setting.

The club continues over the sU Inbecause they could not use it. The mer, training outdoors on the write up was lovely; I just did not expect to be working so hard so courts at Greendown School on quickly. I was looking for a few Monday evenings. To join in call more players to enter a second team Joy on 872237.

The June article also attracted aLl 00 donation from Hairworks Salon at Freshbrook.

Joy Blake and her first team receive a cheque from proprietor Paul Edwards and colleagues. The salon will also be sponsoring kit and is offering discounted hair care to club members

35

Master the great outdoors Swindon Services Lifestyle Unit is offering older citizens a week long adventure holiday from Sun- j day 7 August to Friday 12 August based at the Plas Pencelli adventure centre in Wales.

On offer are canoeing, caving, abseiling, gorge walking, surfing and climbing.

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Many evening activities are included in the price. For details call the Lifes ty le team on 511033.

Half marathon now booking Swindon's second half marathon takes place on Sunday 16 October offering: • 13.1 mile run over a challenging course for 17s and over; • 4.3 mile multi-terrain fun run for 15s and up; • 2 mile fun run for all the family.

Entry forms are available from Swindon recreation centres or can be downloaded from :

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36 The Link Magazine • July 2005

Brook Field netballers dominate West schools

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Clare Brown and Emma Brown, said the girls were very keen to The Brook Field netballers, in red, with the Freshbrook School team at the last game of the season at the end of May train and learn. Several of them already play for the Croft club.

W However several Year 6 team members will be moving on. ^1 Sharon said, "I'm sorry to see them ,. sa e "° leave. I've enjoyed every minute working with the girls, but I'm sure quite a few of them will soon be playing for secondary school and county squads in a few years." _

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HIGHLIGHT

THE LATEST TRENDS

ii

Helping Swindon get active this summer Swindon Council and Swindon Primary Care Trust is launching a new project called Active Swindon to get people up, being physical and enjoying themselves. Two projects start in July.

Swimbus - Penhill to the Oasis Leisure Centre.

A direct bus service every Wednesday between 13 July and 31 August for an evening swim.

The cost is £1.10 per person (under 3s go free). Pick up point: John Moulton Hall in Penhill at 6pm, leaving the Oasis at 8pm.

Conditions: Space on the 53 seater bus will be allocated on a first come first served basis. There will supervision on the bus only; in the Oasis participants will be regarded as a paying member of the public.

Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult (1 adult to a maximum of 2 children under 8).

For details, contact Gladys Barr on 346299.

Family exercise day - 10 July, 11am - 2pm, at Covingham Park

Activities on offer: basketball, netball, football, tennis, cricket, box-rcise, judo, tai-chi, club-base, rounders, skipping, walking, tri-golf, gymnastics, orienteering, fencing, tug-of-war, rounders, juggling, cycling on your own bike to Coate Water and back.

Conditions: Hot food available or bring packed lunch, but no barbecues. Parents are responsible for their children at all times. Free swim voucher for those who walk or cycle to the event. Wear sun cream, cover up and drink water if hot.

For details contact the Friends of Covingham Park Infant School, Sue Reed on 528730, mail: susananne.reed@btinternet.com or Gladys Barr on 346299, mail: glad.barr@ntlworld.com

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 37

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;OBILE CAR SERVICING IN REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (No VAT to pay) CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

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Carnival time One of the highlights of this year's Swindon West Indian Carnival on Saturday 9 July will be the line-up organised by West Swindon musician Ezekial who runs Catchy Creations.

Apart from stalls, fun fair rides, cultural and food stalls, steel bands, bouncy castles and face painting, Zeeks, right, has pulled together a blazing line-up of local and nationally known DJs to work with the DirtRig Sound System from Stroud.

The best and latest in hip hop, garage, D&B, reggae, RnB are promised. Contac t Zeeks on 07821 216077.

Events take place at Buckhurst Park, Walcot from 12noon to 9pm. Details about the carnival from 537939.

arrange for a Free quotation

How to beat summer holiday boredom @ Peatmoor School

Providing friendly & efficient

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There's never been a better time r to bu y a stlaotr A Zoom past

CLOSING DOWN SALE HUGE ISCOUNT i1it

'The Great Escape' summer holiday sports sessions from 25 to 29 July and I to 5 August, 9.30am to 3pm offers two weeks of sport - football, netball, hockey, tennis, badminton, volleyball, gymnastics, rounders, cricket, athletics, dance, Danish long ball, tug of war and orienteering.

Children of any ability aged 9 to 13 years old (school years 5 to 8) have the opportunity to learn a new sport or develop their skills to a higher level. The cost is £55 a week.

Call Greendown School on 874224 to register. @ The Big Adventure

The Big A provides all day and sessional care at Greendown School for 4 to 12 year olds throughout the holidays. Sports, games, water play, quad bikes and discos are planned. For details call Peter Bailey on 875992 or check out: www.thebigaclub.com

@ New College

tforfun

NOBODY BEATS THE CYCLING CENTRE When it comes to deals on wheels we're streets

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@ Greendown School

The Hi5 Camp for 4 to 12 year olds will provide a wide range of activities like swimming, badminton, football, trampolining, ice skating, arts and crafts, quizzes and videos.

The Delta tennis centre will be running tennis camps and there is a Tag Rugby Camp for 7 to 13 year olds at Dorcan.

Full details from www.swindon.gov.uk/schootholidays

JIM Wu7f1Mnts arranged. request

SAVE £££'S ON LEADING BRANDS Low prices Expert friendly advice Top service B.M.X. specialist

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Peatmoor Community Facilities are planning a range of summer holiday activities including ClubBase dance workshops, Spanish, trigolf, fencing, athletics andcard making. To find out more call the corn m unity office on 881613 or mail: caroline_bowles20024yahoo.co.uk The Lollipops Fun Club for 5 to 10 year olds will also be meeting offering singing, acting and dancing. For dates and details contact Julie

+ 5

The Summer School from 15 to 19 August is aimed at children, their parents or carers and also offers classes just for adults.

The week offers single-day taster courses to intensive programmes, with costs from as little as £8 a course. These range from combat sports, fencing or archery, to hands-on problem solving sessions like create our own board game and using maths to make models.

There are unusual courses such as puppet theatre production, including creating cardboard characters and a sound tape, to making 3D greetings cards.

For adults only New College tutors will be providing guidance on how to capture Lydiard Park in watercolours, gift wrapping in style, or being multimedia creative using Photoshop and Flash.

For the full course programme and enrolment details call (freephone) 0808 172 1721.

Irish recording star comes in Swindon 233 Ferndale Road, Swindon CG S

'"

Swindon Tel: (01793) 536657

Jimmy Buckley performs at the Thistle Hotel Sunday 17 July, 8pm - 12.30am Displays from the Maloney School of Irish Dance Tickets £10 on the door

The Link Magazine • July 2005 39

Night club set to become family entertainment centre

0

What does Ohana mean to you? Not much at the moment, but soon it will suggest an escape from the urban rat race, a tropical dining experience and a chance to check e-mails while enjoying a cappuccino.

A familiar building at Shaw "we hope that you will open the Ridge Leisure Park is about to reo- doors and leave Swindon behind pen as a family restaurant and en- and enjoy our relaxed tropical tertainment venue called Ohana - themed dining experience. We the Hawaiian word for family and have loads of room on offer and community, in the former Eros the kids will be entertained and nightclub, well looked after while you enjoy The venue, closed in 2002 due to a quiet drink or a meal." licensing problems, finally has a As well as the family dining area new owner who is bursting with the refurbished centre will host an original ideas to bring families to- internet cafe and live music on Frigether and make the business ven- days and Saturdays.

Ohana is set to open its doors to ture a roaring success.

Kieron Burroughs is the man in the public on 6 August. Look out charge and is keen that the centre for more information in next takes on a new image. He said, month's Link.

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Toddler group plans another session Taw Hill Tots parent and toddler group which meets on Monday mornings at St Francis Church Primary School has become so busy since members were pictured in the April Link, that they are thinking about opening a Friday morning session.

But organisers want to hear from parents with toddlers interested in joining and/or helping to run the group.

For details call Angela Reidon 703352 or mail: angelasindyreid @yahoo.co.uk

Co-op propose Taw Hill care cooperation The Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-op are still considering whether to build a 60 place nursery at Taw Hill village centre.

However with the recent Government proposals that schools extend their day, they have written to St Francis Primary School to see whether they could discuss developing nursery and after-school provision in a joint venture.

Learn how easy it is to Scrapbook Saturday 9 July. Lydiard School Hall, Lydiard Millicent, 10.30am - 3.30pm in aid of NSPCC or Tuesday 19 July. Purton Silver Threads Hall. 7.15pm - 9.30pm Friday 12 August, Youngsters Workshop, 1Oam - 12.15pm.

Call Jennifer Saunders on 877748 with enquiries or to book.

SWIND ON C With 250 bikes on show THE price is right THE parking is free

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40 The Link Magazine • July 2005

New ways to contact Safer Swindon Shop

Palace event postponed

The Safer Swindon Shop at 38 Havelock Street has two new ways for deaf people to access its services, writes manager Jean Goncalvez.

This is through minicom, tel: 529215 and also MSN Hotmail: ° saferswindonshop@hotmail.co.uk Customers can receive advice on all aspects of community safety including home, personal and business security. Personal alarms are L...._available at £6 each. Fire safety checks can also be arranged. " A police officer, crime prevention officer and a fire safety officer are all available at different times for advice and an informal chat. Ring the shop for details.

Consumer advice from Swindon Council Trading Standards can also J ^^-' be accessed through Minicom and Hotmail. So if you have any consumer problems — whether it's a builder that won't finish a job or a shop that won't give you a refund for faulty goods - please do contact us.

The shop can be visited in person or contacted by telephone on 525114, between loam and 3.30pm.

Jean Goncalvez, left, with police liaison inspector Wendy Grant

A fundraising gala at the Pagoda Palace restaurant, to raise money for a garden in the courtyard overlooked by the Mother and Baby Unit at the Great Western Hospital, planned for 1 July, has been postponed until 30 September.

For details and also to help sell tickets, call Albert Tang at the Pagoda Palace on 877888.

Still time to apply The deadline for voluntary groups in the Haydon Wick area to apply for grants to develop their work has been extended to 15 July. For details call Jill Dyke on 01380 729284.

Ash Brake residents await council reasons for refusing KFC wL

_

l,lll

rc"

People living close to the junction of Thamesdown Drive and Lady Lane were overjoyed on 24 May when Swindon Council's planning committee blocked an application for a KFC drive-thru restaurant on the commercial site.

But councillors, mindful of the accessories and servicing. Nearly mandedrefusal.Theplanningofficdifficulties of refusing permission 70 residents submitted objections ers have been asked to draft reasons on a site which is included in the on the grounds of smell, litter and for refusal which are watertight."

North Swindon Master Plan for vermin, traffic congestion, rat runHe acknowledged that this will commercial use and already has ning and anti-social behaviour, be difficult and that if a refusal permission for a fast food outlet, Abbey Meads councillor Justin were overturned and KFC lodges deferred a final decision so that Tomlinson welcomed the decision. an appeal, council taxpayers could officers can come up with valid "The frustration isthatplanninglaw face significant legal costs. reasons for refusal. often takes precedence over comThe planning committee meets The application also included an mon sense and residents made it on 5 July to consider reasons for autocentre selling motor and bike crystal clear that common sense de- refusal.

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 41

New homes for ratty along River Ray The Mayor of Swindon pulled on his wellies to plant some wildflowers on 21 June to mark the end of the first phase of a major project to encourage wildlife to return to the River Ray near Westlea.

1 Over the last 90 years, as the B i f f a ward, l river has become surrounded by Thames Water, urban development, it has turned npower, Hills into little more than a canal, absent Waste, Swindon I, Borough Council of insects, fish or wildlife.

Now the bends and pools, rif- and Swindon fles, banks and water plains are Services.

- ..

Trust project being put back along a 1.2 kilome<.

- t tre stretch of the river so that dif- officer Jo Sayers ferent habitats are created to en- said, "straightcourage dragonflies, kingfishers ening the River and mammals likewatervolesand Ray created a featureless, dark otters to return, The first phaseof'rewindingthe drainage chan^ New bends, banks and ray' was started in February along nel hidden by tall netbackwaters being built a 600 metre stretch from the tles.Therewerenopools, where Westlea stream Thames Water sewage works shallows or still waterarjoins the River Ray to outfall to where the Westlea Stream eas, to give the variety the cycle bridge at the joins the Ray. The Wiltshire Wild- needed for different fish, end of Barnfield road. life Trust is managing the project birds and insects to sur' A raised area of funded by the Environment Agency, vive.Butjustashorttime .1 , — into the project L , ground is to be reVolunteers from npower planting the newly formed there are signs moved to widen the ' /4 river bank (Photo above and below: Jo Sayers) thatwildlifeisre- Hope for endangered flood plain. New water voles. (Photo: bends, backwaters and turning, ponds will be dug so "I see fresh ot- Darin Smith) ter spraints every time I that the river can wander through visit. Usually otters use this the land, rather than being chanarea over the winter and nelled around the edge as it is at move away by March, but present. they are still here in early To find out more about the Wiltsummer." shire Wildlife Trust's work conThe next phase of work tact SueLitherlandon01380725670 will tackle the stretch or mail suel@wiltshirewildife.org

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

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

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

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

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Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

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Opening hours: Mon-Fri: gam-6.3Opm Saturday: 12 noon-3p 1fl Consulting hours b y appointment: Mon-F ri : 9arn-10.30am; 3.30pm-5pm; 5.30pm-6.30pm; Saturday: 12 noon-3pm 24 HR EMERGE.VCYSERI-10E - A ll Sunday and Emergency consults b y appointment at Drove Veterinar y Hospital. Tel: 01793 522483

42 The Link Magazine • July 2005

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The Link Magazine • July 2005 43

West Swindon Open Gardens

Asda goes big on the environment

Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 June, 1 Oam to 4pm Asda are urging its customers to get serious about caring for our planet during its Big Recycling Week, 23 to 29 July.

Twenty gardens in the Nine Elms and Old Shaw Lane area open in They want their customers to ing for prizes. aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Jeremy Kinsey, general store sort and clean packaging and conEntry £2 at participating gardens displaying purple and white balloons tainers and make use of the paper, manager at Asda West Swindon, Sponsored by The Link glass, can, plastic and clothing re- said, "it's really important that we cycling centres at their 279 sites encourage our colleagues and cusPicnic in the forest. Sunday 10 July, 2pm tomers to separate their rubbish when they go shopping.

They've also set themselves a and recycle - via the council's Organised by Swindon Forest Protection Group on the meadow at national target of recycling 283 kerbside collection or when they Shaw Forest Country Park. million carrier bags nationally in a make a shopping trip to Asda.

All who fought to preserve Shaw Forest from commercial development He added that he is looking forweek (15 billion are used in the UK and anybody else welcome. Bring food. outdoor games. frisbees, kites ward to seeing what recycling creaeach year). and musical instruments. tures children come up with.

Asda are setting children aged 4 Look for details of the Big Recy- Use the park entrance from the white horse play area off Cartwright to 11 the challenge of creating a creature of their imagination out cling Week at West Swindon Asda Drive. Shaw, through the underpass and turn left. Or approach from the ofrecycledmaterials.Takeaphoto and Asda Walmart at the North River Ray Parkway cycle track. For map, call The Link. tel: 608840. into the store for display and judg- Swindon District Centre.

Swindon children's charity has super idea How often are you stuck outside a supermarket without £1 to release the trolley?

Popular local charity CALM, Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Movement, are selling attractive supermarket tokens which clip neatly onto a keyring and are always available to fit the £1 slot on the trolley.

After shopping, simply retrieve your CALM token and put it back on your keyring ready for the next time. Tokens are available for just £2 each from CALM's secretary. Buy yours before they sell out.

A collection day at Sainsbury's Bridgemead in June raised £844.68.

Don Macarthur, chairman, said, "the people of Swindon know the excellent work we do, and as always have been really generous in thei contributions. These funds will really make a difference in our effort to support local families who are facing the strain of childhood cancer or leukaemia.

For your CALM token, send£2 (cheques to: CALM) to Helen Willstead, the Secretary, P 0 Box 1191, Marlborough, SN8 1WG. www.calmcharity.org

Fuchsia Show Saturday 23 July, 1 pm Haydon Wick Community Centre Tombola, raffle, plant sale. refreshments Adults £1iOAP 50p. Disabled parking and access For further information call Peter Bloor on 873426

Organised by Swindon Fuchsia and Pelargonium Society

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS LTD 73 Block Paving El Landscaping 0 Fencing 11)ecorative Stone 1 General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation

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44

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

Tel: 01793-871032 Mobile: 0795 0017584

+ Bathrooms

+ Renovations + Alterations

Floor & wall tiling Painting & decorating

Mobile: 07785 522377

Unit 1 4a. Turnpike. Blunsdon

Tel: 01793 61 6170

g ns Lid Loft Conversion Specialists

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41 Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in converting all types of lo ft into quality living space.

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

• n

n verticals n rollers n venetians • romans • pleateds • awnings • conservatory blinds

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

for fast local service call us now - freephone

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

8.30am - 9pm weekdays, 9am - 5pm weekends choose from our daytime, evening or weekend appointments

•!

'

0800 916 6595

r

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

to browse or buy just click www.hillarys.co.uk

Freephone 0800 9118695

Off current prices un selected ranges r Applies to 127mrn louvres only in blinds .i p to 2m wide

www.acenti.co.uk

H i l l a r ys

46 ir

BATHROOMS

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RS

Bathrooms & Ki Tiling Walls & Floors

BUILDIN G SERVICES

BATHROOM S ® Plumbing Quality bathroor _suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of = All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes,

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing Et building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Contact Pat McHugh 521300 Mobile: 07802 500183

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

01793 725232 07748 964433

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

JAMES O'SULLIVAN Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing Established 22 years For a professional finish telephone 07971347345 (,nob) or 616933

GK DECORATORS Interior/Exterior Painting, wallpapering coving, dado rails and tiling No job too big or too small For a professional and f . friendly service call

F 01793 325194 or 07917 061717 HEATING & PL UMBING

FLOORING ...J. All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MAST ER FITTER

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

07970 865883

25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

MAINTENANCE

3

( 1

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

J All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed ) Warm air unit service, repair & installation c) Landlord/moving house safety inspections O Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken Central heating systems flushed I (powerflush) J Hot water systems descaled O Quote on request O 24 hour call out O Natural gas & LPG qualified Reg, 202015 British Gas trained Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

PLAN S DRAWN wise plan

SERVICES

All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved • Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia / cladding • Plumbing • Electrical • Painting Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.u k Our reputation is huilt on I ore'snfisfaction

sandra wiseman plans drawn for extensions and

I

' change

of use

for a professional & friendly service call

01793 539274 or 07734 840713 for a free no obligation consultation

PSr McHUGH BRICKLAYING CONTRACTORS C.LTB. ` REGISTERED Y Specialists in high quality brickwork Domestic & commercial Extensions & renovations Property maintenance

machines installed

Free estimates

BRICKLAYING

UPVC windows Et doors

Also bathroom and kitchen installations

DECORATOR

I

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DOUBLE GLAZING

Interior/exterior painting and decorating Wallpaper Tiling Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations \ ebb too small • Rooms kc%1 tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg: i2t966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLASTERING Brian Jones Plastering Services

YOU LOCAL CHOICE 07968 757860 H EATING & PLUMBIN G RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work • Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Reg 203455

PLUMBING & HEATING Professional & Reliable

* Coving

• Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements • Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small 4

* New or repairs

• Free quotations

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

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

Ide too home mai ntenance s er;v ce:s

47

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wtrt^ Serrenee4

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

CARPEN TRY

Paul Comer CARPTh^TWI

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

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

DOUBLE GLAZING

ELECT RICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

M.D. ELECTRICAL SERVICES

SAFE & SHA\X

J Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ! ^ O Replacement doors & staircases O Laminate floors O Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted

Free no obligation quotes

SWIDON& GLOZICESTEQ CO Q'J2 TOQJE

Fitted kitchens & bedrooms

Wood and laminate flooring *: Loft conversions -*: Doors & windows

Stairs * Specialising in shop fitting *: All carpentry work undertaken

Part P registered to comply with new building regulations

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• Sockets and lighting • Showers • Consumer units

• Re-wires Inspection & testing

• Extensions

i ce,

For quality windows and doors Tel: 01793 331 551 07775 621764 / 07799 284998

FENSA

• Certification • Free estimates Part P

°`„z

M: 077438 74621

See our advert onpagel

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

Tel: 01793 495365

HEATING & PLUMBING

Personal one-to-one service Clean. reliable, quality work - no job too small For free quote call Paul on

0777 5840236

or 321981 I ELECTRICIAN

Dave Odd

ELECTRICAL SERVICES â EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS >- SECURITY LIGHTING / FIRE ALARMS -- GARDEN LIGHTING / OUTDOOR SOCKETS SHOWER AND COOKER INSTALLATION

FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE 07769 883717 TEL: 01793 876029

HOUSE/GARDEN

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

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

I MAINTENANCE

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

ROB HALL

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

M.P.S.

Heating & Plumbing

Central heating installations,

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

boiler servicing and repairs,

CALL 01793 522579

bathroom and power showers All aspects of plumbing Tel: 01793 815254 ae g:

Professional interior/exterior painter and decorator

157506

MOBILE: 07816 906437 matt@mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk (- --, --,

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Reg. 67416

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 Building All garden work Guttering and Concreting paths fascia Patio repairs All carpentry Patio jet wash Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

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

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

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

TILING

' ower Plun

NEEDA PLUMBER?

GILES BROS

l

datiNg Sir vices 30 y ears olumbina & heating experience British Gas trained

•Central heating installations ♦ All Plumbing work undertaken •Servicing & repairs •Bathroom Installations E f .T 111 at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 215153 Mobile: 07963 953439 E-mail: towerplumbheat@aol.com

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

Call 01793 524200

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

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

SERVICE

48

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

CHRIS PAYNE

Aerial & Television

MAGIC SAT

Services

(European Satellite Specialists)

AERIALS

•

TV/FM/DAB aerials \ • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Noticed Signal amplifiers

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS *, Satellite TV Sky & digital terrestial

interference

* Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

No call out

lately? Tetra

charge

fitters fitted

All work guaranteed

* Storm damage

Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379 or 07774 943 783

SKY

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0777 6236415

BIN LINERS

BOOK-KEEPING

GOT YOUR WHEELIE BIN YET.

Can't face doing the books after a hard day's = work?

Keep it clean and smell free with a black polythene liner, manufactured to BS6642.

CARPET CLEANING ^

Order online @ www.linersbagssacks.com Easy, free and secure.

Order by post by calling Linersbagssacks on 01554 810054

Creaseless Ironing Services

• Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured NC E' • Quickly usable

experience.

You'll be amazed how affordable it is _call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418

Tel: 01793 700637

Email: ctiff.whiteway@btinternet.com

l

REMOVALS & STORAGE REMOVALS STORAGE TRANSPORT r►

'

COMPUTER SUPPORT I Corn Master's a" PC Repairs i^ Why go anywhere else?

When we'll come to you..... = Free home & business visits Jargon free advice & support Upgrades/repairs

-i, All parts & labour guaranteed =i= Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0798 002 5590 FSB

X—pi%..^' Ss A premier ironing, dry cleaning, handwashing & shirt servic • Free collection and delivery (home or office)

z

• 24 hrs turnaround

Purpose equipped shop Professional team Independent quality checks Sensible flexible visiting times

Available 7 days a week One-off loads or regular collection ' ' ®

Call us on 608822

SECURITY

• All work done to your requirements (hanging or folded)

Tel: 01793 617200 07748 588210

www.LHlroning.co.uk

or 07843 690720

-I

Tel: (01793) 706921 Mobile: 07765 224637

LII Ironing Services

We are a well established door-to-door ironing service delivering professional finished results

3 3 3 o 3

• Official satellite viewing cards • Free estimates • On call until 10pm 7 days a week • Free sport • Free movies • Free adult • All work guaranteed

or mobile: 07808 355487

96

One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever!

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

All items delivered on hangers and wrapped in cellophane Guaranteed animal and smoke free environment Call Karen on 01793 822659

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

If we can't do it, nobody can.

IRONING & DRY CLEANING

IRONING

IRONING

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains. suites etc

=

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

We also supply Refuse Sacks

Whitewa,^

AERIAL SERVICES

Offer excludes household. pleated & evening wear items

SECURITY SYSTEMS

SECURITY SYSTEMS

8 W

TEL: 01793 772888

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

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 Em a il: as hgr oup l @btinte rn et.co m

tSE

security systems ltd

Expe rt Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

• •

CCTV Access Control & Intercom, • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitoring

Electronic & Securit y Solutions INTRUDER ALARMS O CCTV SYSTEMS O FIRE ALARMS 0 EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS O ACCESS CONTROL O ENTRY SYSTEMS GATE AUTOMATION

• • ssaib

email:

For a free, no obligation quotation ^•• SSab l1._. tel: 01793 705216

49

SECTOR AIRPORT TRAVE L

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

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

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

JiS!

I •

brands • Guaranteed

repairs •

^^C

Same day, local service wherever possible

Most leading

Same day service

It'

No call out charge

Consultancy F---Installation Support

. Corn

PC Support °raight to your door • Computer running slow?

• Need some advice?

OVEN CLEANING

ENCL AN

• Virus and Internet attack

questions?

• Wishing to backup?

Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07780 946267

Personal, Business and Vehicle Self Storage at Latton (just off A419) For the lowest prices in the area. call Alex Oram on 01793 759311 e: info@waterparkstorage.com www.waterparkstorage.com

'For alT you r storage needs

E Member Member

n^ 1, ABBEY MOVE First Class Removal & Storage Solutions

Single items moved anywhere in Fl Swindon for £15

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

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Long/short distance l

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V

0800 019 5037 TV INSTALLATION

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

WIRING & INSTALLATION & TUNING

No call out charge * All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

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

bww.abbeymove.co.uk

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

Free home estimates

Work wear ;;: Childrens wear :i: Leisure wear Promotional wear Contact us: 01793 874092 07900 624517 email: dd@brandongt.fsnet.co.uk

REMOVALS & STORAGE

WHITE VAN MAN

Disposal of unwanted items House clearance

i

• Virus Protection/Removal • PC and Server Health Checks • Website Design and Implementation • Hardware Procurement • Networking Solutions/Troubleshooting

www.it-2-u.com

REMOVALS

EMBROIDERY

• Specialising in domestic user

Mobile: 07762 645296

Pro-R

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

.Ned Extra Storage?

appliances

Computer Services

Tel: 01793 706806

}

of domestic

MEET

ffi/midWinter

01793 887883 / 07947 831378 contact@it-2-u.com

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service I

SELF STO

COMPUTER SUPPORTI

home visits

• Equipment required?

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

all makes

Tel: 01793 469300

• Looking to upgrade?

Making IT work for yo u

repairs to

Same day/next day service

COMP UTER SUPPO RT

IT2-U

Established % ^S 30 years

Guaranteed

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Servi ce • Spares • Repairs

A SUDS COMPUTER SUPPORT

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

WINDOW CLEANING

By Crystalline Local, reliable, QUALITY service /b

Free estimates, no obligation

Windows, frames and doors cleaned to a very high standard Internal cleaning undertaken if required Call Martin on 01793 349102

Call Andy on 07900 981144

Make your windows shine with Crystalline

of TVs, DVI) players, Hi-Fi's, surround sound.

LCD & plasma systems and videos

or 07974 198083

50 The Link Magazine • July 2005

Youngsters in search of Haydon Wick's history

BABYSITTING SERVICE For any special occasion or gym/shopping. we can be at your service 15years childcare experience CAB (police checked). Refs available North Swindon based Tel: 01793 324715 Mob: 07709-429155

Registered Childminder Flexible, friendly, negotiable rates 8 years experience.

Learn and play Monday to Friday, 6am to 9pm. School drop-offs and pick-ups.

Also weekends & late evenings Call 07957 166529 or 871466

Registered trained childminder based in Haydon Wick has a space for one under 5.

Also available: over 4s school pick ups and drop offs plus school holidays for over 5s

Tel: 726164 day/evening

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

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

Call 871808 for competitive prices

Members of the Haydon Wick Junior Council are embarking on a new project to look into the past and are holding a meeting on 20 July to meet residents with reminiscences about living in the area.

For background, the youngsters r " have already researched docu ® y ments held by the Wiltshire yt Records Office at Trowbridge and 'Y$ hope citizens with long memories will help them develop a history of s the village.

In the past, The Link has related the memories of some of the more '^ T ,r enduring residents. Doug and r 4 Caryl Clifford of Haydon Farm on Haydon End Lane and Alan and Valerie Trotman, then of Grange Farm Nurseries, have recalled Haydon We ti rrclookin into tie' past.Thejuninrrouncilie r,,frvii t,trom left. farming life in the first half of the LucyNewmmt, Lauren Edmunds, JackCloutman, chairman, KateJackson, Samuel last century, when the area was Frost. Back, Kacey Manning, Shannon Hilton, Lydia Roberts, Matthew Cannon, noted for its dairy herds and milk Lewis Record, Jake Dowdell, Sophie Peers-Weaver was delivered by horse and cart. hhen, the village comprised High Neil James Zatyka Cole y Street and The Brow, two cars and 8 June 1986 - 31 May 2005 one telephone.

The April 2004 Link touched Yasmin Hopkinson writes: upon the older history of the vil- On Wednesday 8 June lage whose existence goes back over 450 people congre" more than eight centuries, and re- gated in the Immanuel membered local resident Catherine Church, Upham Road to Wayte. She endowed the first celebrate the life of Neil school in 1806 and has a close, a Cole. new school and a room in the Family and friends Haydon Centre named after her, dressed in brightly colDespite all the hectic housingg oured clothes gathered tor" development going on around it, gether to give thanks for Hayden Wick has continued to knowing such a charisFree Spirit retain its identity and its young matic young man with an p people are keen to understand and infectious love of life and smile to interpret its history for others. warm everybody's heart.

If you cannot attend the meeting Neil's family wish to thank evethe junior council members would ryone who contributed to the collike to make arrangements to hear I lection to raise awareness of the o^EvanpeJl^ from anyone willing to share their importance of wearing protective ,worsie t Road a^ recollections of local life of headgear when skateboarding.

To offer help call the parish coun • Neil, 18, died from head injuries a^ mo cil offices on 722446. ~E

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C^VG►

)DISC SERVICES

We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos

SHORT PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS MADE Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758

sustained in a skateboard accident in Cornwall. He was wellknown to many young people in Swindon and worked in the Just Add Water surf shop in the town centre until January when he moved to Nationwide.

His family are urging skateboarders to use helmets and are planning safety awareness events.

For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org 'the gift of God is Eternal Life" (Romans 6 r23

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

building with people

Sunday services are at Oam & 6.30pm

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

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Toothill Church; Westlea Church

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

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 770568 partnershipoffice@btopen

world. con t

Home...

£119,950

Plot 83

Two bedroom ground floor apartment with parking.

From spacious, comfortable rooms to stylish, contemporary features, whatever you're looking for in a future home, the

Plot 84

£119,950

Two bedroom ground floor apartment with parking.

apartments at The Nurseries promise all

Plot 86

this and much more besides.

One bedroom ground floor apartment with parking.

Just released in North Swindon are these beautiful new Bloor Homes apartments at The Nurseries, Priory Vale. A selection of one and two bedroom apartments are available all with allocated parking.

Call 01793 702255 or visit our on-site Sales & Information Centre where our helpful staff will be pleased to assist you.

J7

J8

J9

...be

£96,995

J6a

J6

J5

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Visitor Centre

The Grange & The Nurseries Priory Vole

Orbital Shopping Centre

amongst the first to Lay down roots at the Nurseries

The Nurseries

The

Nurseries PRIORY VALE

Off Junction 7, Haydon End, Priory Vale, North Swindon.

Telephone: 01793 702255 Open daily: 10am-5.15pm

Prices and availability correct at time of going to press. The elevational treatment shows a typical arrangement. Details of materials and design treatments may vary. Any artist impressions shown are not intended to represent any particular plot. Purchasers are advised to inspect the layout plan to establish the arrangement of house and surrounding property.

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