July 2007 Swindon Link

No. 302 July 2007 • Circulation 26,000

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

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and the swindon wide what’s on guide

Logos to be proud of

FIVE ★ WINNER

Never mind the much derided London 2012 Olympics logo, here are two which tell stories for new Swindon schools. See page 17

Scores on the Doors Award For excellent compliance to food & hygiene regulations

Lydiard Park needs to do more for special needs children

Abbey Meads inventor looks for investor

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Brian Little has designed a power unit for a push bike, but he needs to make contact with an entreprenuur. See page 36

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The postponed race in aid of a Swindon childrens’ cancer charity takes place on 22 July. See page 3.

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Children and teachers from Uplands Special School look with longing at the new play area in the park with Coun Steve Wakefield. Story on page 3

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Mechanics’ petition last chance Just a couple of clicks of the mouse could help prevent the historically important Mechanics’ Institution from becoming yet another town centre hotel.

It’s about the people, for the people. Members of the Mechanics Institute Trust at a Swindon Council meeting in 2005. The trust has been arguing their case for nearly 12 years and now needs help from the PM

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The Link’s online petition calling on the Prime Minister to return the building to the people, will be one of the first to be received by Gordon Brown after his move to Number 10.

Hundreds of people have signed up to show their support for an end to the deadlock over the building.

The New Mechanics’ Institution Preservation Trust has plans to bring the decaying carcass back to life and put the heart back into the Railway Village. They have Listed Building consent for their plans to

restore it to community use with a theatre, restaurant and meeting spaces.

Most people agree that leaving the building to rot is a disgrace in a town with grand plans for regeneration. It is questionable whether the plans of the current owner, Matthew Singh, for a hotel will be approved and whether another town centre hotel is a commercially viable option.

The petition calls for an end to the deadlock by obliging Mr Singh to restore the building or be forced to sell it.

Add your support before the deadline of 30 July at: http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/SwindonMechanics

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Youngsters call for their needs to be supported at Lydiard A group of pupils from Uplands Special School at the North Swindon Learning Campus visited the newly restored Lydiard Park in early June and discovered more can be done to cater for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

They looked longingly over the fence into the toddlers’ play area with its large, ground level sandpit and the exciting equipment in the adventure playground. But the children enjoyed their walk through the park to the recently reopened historic walled garden where they could smell the flowers.

Uplands teacher Lorna Breslin said children and teachers were keen to see what was on offer at Lorna Breslin, right, with Charlie Harmen, the new Lydiard, but were disapKate Bradbury with Vanessa Mapstone pointed at the limited facilities for Toothill councillor Steve Wakechildren with learning difficulties, particularly those in wheelchairs. field who accompanied the visit “We’ve always enjoyed coming to said the council should listen to Lydiard because of its open spaces the children and their families. and ease of access for the minibus, “Lorna has pointed out that and our families love visiting be- Lydiard is good for some children with disability but we need to look cause of the free parking.

“It would be great to have a sand- at how we can offer more stimulapit at wheelchair height, pathways tion for those with profound learndesigned to give wheelchair users ing difficulties.”

The Lydiard Park Management different experiences and an area where all the senses can be stimu- Board is looking at the ideas put forward by Lorna and the children. lated.”

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Rotary Club of Old Town president Trevor Embling with CALM parents, Jackie Lambeth and Sam Jarvis

1 July 07

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After a long search for somewhere symbolic to remember children who have lost their lives to cancer, Swindon’s Cancer & Leukaemia Movement has formed a deep link with Lydiard Park in the restored walled garden.

A bench close to a well and handpump at the centre of the garden gives families, friends and visitors a point to reflect and bring comfort.

CALM member Sam Jarvis from Haydon Wick said the well is more than a memorial. “It’s a beautiful spot where we can remember children lost to cancer, make wishes of hope for those undergoing treatment and also enjoy the open spaces and fresh air in the park.

“We are so pleased that the Rotary Club of Old Town is helping us raise the £10,000 contribution to the well restoration and furniture.”

Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of

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Lydiard House, said, “CALM is a fantastic charity: we are all delighted that Lydiard can play a part in providing a lovely place for families and friends to visit.”

Duck race on again Torrential rain and flooding at the end of May forced postponment of the annual Rotary Club duck race at the River Ray on Wootton Bassett Road to raise money for the CALM well restoration fund.

The event has been rescheduled for Sunday 22 July, 3pm.

It’s not too late to buy a duck on the day or call 521464 before. Get there early.

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Speedway to stay on the ridge

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Plans for a new stadium complex for the Swindon Robins speedway team, including a greyhound racing track, covered market and Youth Initiative Centre, together with a care home, 450 residential units and a business park have been submitted to Swindon Council.

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Following major objections from speedway fans and residents last year, when developers proposed to build a smaller facility suitable for dog racing only, Thistle Land, RREEF UK Property Ventures and Gaming International have proposed a new stadium to the east of the existing site suitable for speedway and dogs, with office units, and to build residential dwellings off Salzgitter Drive, close to houses on St Andrew’s Ridge.

The application covers a 22 hectare (54 acre) site. Access to housing will be from Salzgitter Drive, but stadium traffic will continue to be from Tadpole Lane, off the new Blunsdon by-pass.

The stadium complex will include a youth centre offering training in motor engineering and maintenance, and animal husbandry and care.

The proposals as a whole are expected to create and safeguard nearly 1,000 jobs.

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securing the future of speedway, providing youth training facilities, employment opportunities and a proportion of affordable housing within the residential area.”

Abbey Meads councillor Justin Tomlinson said, “I’m delighted the developers have responded to the protests last year to secure the future of the Robins. I am also pleased by the move from light industrial use of the land to a more acceptable residential and business development.”

Subject to planning approval, the stadium could be ready for the 2009 speedway season.

The public display of the plans on 12 June was publicised at where artists impressions can be seen.

At the display Barry Cheyne, who lives in one of the closest houses to the stadium on St Andrews’ Ridge, said he liked the proposals but is concerned with the volume of traffic on Salzgitter Drive and access to the office units off Thamesdown Drive on stadium race days.

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Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 advertising@swindonlink.com August bookings by 9 July

e: publisher@swindonlink.com

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

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

Editorial copy date for

www.swindonlink.com

August: 9 July Published: 28 July Copy for September: 6 August Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027.

Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks.

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

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Council to flush away four years of community initiative Have a vision, take action, rent space from Swindon Council, organise a growing range of community related projects, put forward a viable long term proposal - and be kicked out for your pains. and as the council was With undue haste, the planning a conference on council’s cabinet decided ‘Third Sector Visioning,’ in June to give notice to a government requirequit to the New Mechanment upon local authoriics’ Trust, short lease octies to form partnerships cupants of the old Railwith non-council organiway Museum - and spend sations which contribute £1 million on refurbishto community cohesion. ing the building as a youth Appeals were made by centre. the Trust to the cabinet to The February 2004 Link conduct meaningful conproclaimed the building Trust volunteers illustrate the size and opportunity for sultation about the buildas a great opportunity for performance and displays at the old railway museum ing and not rush to a deciSwindon Council to develop a large scale performance, moved in and having submitted sion. But four years of effort are to educational, arts and cultural cen- several proposals for the long term be ignored, seemingly because the tre. And we suggested the council use of the building which have Trust does not fit the council’s neat, could break new ground and al- been ignored, the council wants ordered top down view of what it will tolerate. low a community organisation to them out. do this.

Ironically the decision was taken • A longer version of this article can But four years after the Trust during National Volunteer Week be read at www.swindonlink.com

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Swindon: your views wanted, warts and all Lynette Thomas from Rodbourne is planning a book entitled Swindon- The Good, Bad & The Ugly which she says will be a tongue-in-cheek look at what people living in Swindon really think about their town.

She has been gathering material for some months, including the views of well known singer and Swindon critic Andy Partridge of XTC. Lynette, said, “the town has been the butt of many a joke over the years but I want to record what people who live here actually think about the place. It can be buildings, places, people, events, community projects- whatever comes to mind.”

Lynette is spending the summer photographing sites around the town and hopes to publish in the Autumn. Any profits will go to the Octobus community arts project. To give your point of view, contact: Lynette Thomas, 48 Churchward Avenue, Swindon, SN2 1NH or mail: akmosaics@yahoo.co.uk

Place for visual expression www.swindongallery.org.uk, sponsored by The Link - view images of the town, upload your own pictures.

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Certificates for cafe organisers The new Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Michael and Sue Barnes visited the volunteers who run the cafes at Freshbrook and Toothill Community Centres to present them with certificates from the annual Mayor’s award scheme.

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Contributors to community spirit, the Mayor and Mayoress with cafe coordinators Carol Gibbons and Tina Mackie and volunteers, from left Sharon Humphrey, elder Kaaria, Diane Birchmore, Marlene Marsh, Frank Gelston, elder McLee, Claire Johnston-Mitchell

Freshbrook resident Arthur Pryke, who nominated cafe coordinators Tina Mackie and Carol Gibbons, said, “I asked a few people about putting them forward and within a day I had 50 signatures on a letter to the mayor. The volunteers running the cafe do a marvellous job for people of all ages; it really brings the community together.

And we’d all like to thank them for re-starting the lunch club for older people at Freshbrook Community Centre.

The cafes open from 9.30am to 1pm on Monday - Toothill; Wednesday - Freshbrook To volunteer time to help, call Tina on 495128

Floods, play, road safety and cash set for July West forum discussion The West Swindon Forum on Monday 9 July will cover a range of topics including: • the work to reduce the future Uplands Special School on the prorisk of flooding from White Hill vision for children with profound and multiple learning difficulties Brook in Westlea; • small council grants to commu- at Lydiard Park.

The forum provides a meeting nity groups - see page 8; • Sunday bus services to and from point for residents to discuss community wide issues with the eight the West Swindon Centre; • traffic calming matters includ- Swindon councillors representing ing a discussion about the effect of the two wards in the area.

Bring other agenda items to the the pedestrian crossing outside Toothill’s Oliver Tomkins Infants meeting for discussion, if there is time.

School a year after installation; Everyone is invited to attend at • improving the play area at 7.30pm in the Link Centre comWestlea Drive; • a report by Lorna Breslin from munity suite.

Number correction In the June Link we published the wrong number for contacting Swindon Council with regard to abandoned vehicles. To report them the correct number is 463463.

Use this number also for graffiti removal and to report litter or fly tipping to be cleared, street cleaning, abandoned trolleys, grass cutting, problems with drains and potholes.

Licenced to sell and deliver wine and beer

All change soon to ‘golden numbers’

OPEN: Sun - Thur 4.45pm - 11.15pm; Fri & Sat 4.45pm - 11.45pm Last orders for delivery 15 minutes before closing time

Swindon Council hopes to launch its new customer services centre in August, providing a one-stop shop for information on all council services - in person and on the ‘phone.

A set of special so-called ‘golden numbers’ have been reserved for use by callers to this new service and these will be publicised closer to the launch date.

★ Tel: 01793 703388 ★

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Last month, in the story about whether Thamesdown Drive will ever be extended to Barnfield Road, we suggested the cost of crossing the railway line owned by Railtrack might be prohibitive.

Malcolm Peters points out that Network Rail took ownership of rail infrastructure in 2002.

14/6/07, 6:30 pm

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Storysacks inventor bags a doctorate Storyteller extraodinaire and former Westlea Primary School headteacher Neil Griffiths is to receive an honorary doctorate in recognition of his promotion of literacy development around the world. seem to have been The creator of lost to a whole genStorysacks will become eration. He has fond a Doctor of Letters at memories of his own Bishop Grosseteste father who he says College in a ceremony could make up a at Lincoln Cathedral story about anything on 17 July, a few weeks and liked to create after touring Swindon rhymes about people on a storytelling exhe met. “I was born travaganza to mark the with endless energy tenth anniversary of and enthusiasm and Storysacks.

I’m always thinking “I was absolutely bowled over to be recognised by of the next thing. If you love somemy peers,” said Neil. “I can hon- thing, it’s never hard to do.”

In 2005 Neil made a ten year estly say I’ve never been so proud commitment to financially support to be asked.”

With apparently boundless en- a nursery in the Gambia and also a thusiasm, Neil combines writing teacher training college.

The latest project is setting stoand management of his Corner to Lean business with lecturing and ries to music and a performance of running workshops all over the his story, The Star, accompanied world. Early June was spent in by classical pianist Mikhail Dubai and Hong Kong leading Kazakevich was a sell out at workshops in storytelling, play Newbury Festival. Another story, The Journey, will be performed at and parenting skills.

He has published eight new the Tate Gallery on 14 July accomstory books this year, and is par- panied by members of the Royal ticularly proud of Grandma and Philharmonic Orchestra.

Grandpa’s Garden which gently • Neil will be telling a story at Lydiard deals with the loss of a loved one. House on Friday 29 June, 10.45am.

Neil is passionate about story- Meet at the house entrance. www.cornertolearn.co.uk telling and rekindling skills that

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Residents to look at youth needs and masts The Shaw Residents’ Association has invited West Swindon Youth Worker Hew Solley to its meeting on Monday 2 July, 8.30pm, to discuss activities and projects for young people in the Shaw, Nine Elms, Peatmoor and Sparcells areas.

Even though the mobile phone mast proposed for on Tewkesbury Way, next to Friesian Close, has been turned down but the meeting will discuss concerns about masts positioned near housing and schools.

The association meets in the Shaw Village community room, next to the Ridge Green Medical Practice.

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Farewell to Shaw headteacher Former Brook Field Primary School pupilsare invited to say good-bye to Roger Nicholas, who retires at the end of the summer term, at a free event on 29 June, from 5.30pm.

Could a grassroots grant help your group make a difference?

From July 2007, small groups and organisations in Swindon will be able to apply for up to £1,000 from Swindon Borough Council in the following categories: community festivals, environmental sustainability, discretionary grants.

Meetings are to take place in July where grants officer Mark Feeney will give more details of the criteria and discuss how to apply: Monday 9th Broad Green Centre 6.30pm-7.30pm Monday 9th Link Centre (West Swindon Forum) 7.30pm Tuesday 10th Haydon Centre 6.30pm-7.30pm Thursday 12th Coleview Community Centre 6.30pm-7.30pm Monday 16th Toothill Community Centre 6.30pm-7.30pm Tuesday 17th Ellendune Centre, Wroughton 6.30pm-7.30pm Wednesday 18th Pinehurst People’s Centre 6.30pm-7.30pm Or call Mark for an application pack on 463000 or mail: mbfeeny@swindon.gov.uk

Annual meeting to mark seventy-five years of service Both Swindon’s MPs will join members of voluntary groups across the town on 12 July to celebrate the seventy-fifth anniversary of the organisation which provides support and advice to, and advocacy for the non-statutory sector.

Although it has had several names since 1932, Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS) has always been at the forefront of social and community action in the town, representing the huge range of organisations concerned with social need and community development, and acting as a mediator with statutory bodies.

VAS director Chris Lau with former Greendown Anne Snelgrove MP and pupil Adam Horwood-Smith who designed a Michael Wills MP will speak new logo to mark the 75th anniversary on his at 12noon about the contri- graphic design course at Swindon College bution of the voluntary sector at the VAS annual general meet- showcase their work. ing on Thursday 12 July at the For details of the meeting and to Pilgrim Centre. find out about VAS, call 538538, Beforehand, from 10am, volun- mail: info@vas-swindon.org tary and community groups will www.vas-swindon.org

Where on the web is Michael Wills?

North Swindon MP has launched a new website to keep residents better informed about his work in Westminster and Swindon.

New features include opinion surveys, a video blog and a developer watch section, plus news updates on issues like school places. www.michaeldwills.co.uk To use traditional means, contact Michael at the Pinehurst People’s Centre, Beech Avenue, Swindon SN2 1JT. Tel: 481016 or at the House of Commons: 0207 219 4399 www.octaviahealthcare.co.uk

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14/6/07, 6:49 pm

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Age Concern Swindon rated excellent A recent quality assurance review has found that the services Age Concern Swindon provides to older people, as well as the way the organisation campaigns to improve the quality of life of today’s pensioners and tomorrow’s, is the very best.

Age Concern’s national membership and standards committee, which overseas the federation of nearly 400 charities bearing the name in England, states: ‘Age Concern Swindon clearly provides a focus not just on the needs and aspirations of older people in the Borough of Swindon, but on the contribution that they continue to make to the life of their local communities, raising the profile of older people and ensuring that their South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove presents views, concerns and opinthe Quality Certificate of Achievement to Age ions are more likely to be Concern Swindon chairman Derek Benfield, both articulated and re- right, and director Jo Osorio sponded to.’

Welcoming the report, chairman ing what we do - making sure we Derek Benfield and director Jo provide good value for the finanOsorio combined to say, ‘this is a cial and other support we receive tribute to the hard work of all our from local people and the borough staff and our 175 volunteers. We council.’ are proud of the contribution Age Cash in with free advice Concern Swindon has made to the life of the town for the last 55 years. In some cases, pensioners have We are determined go on improv- doubled their income by claiming what is due to them says a new booklet from Age Concern.

World experience is In April, Age Concern Swindon pledged to put an extra £600,000 inspiration for GP A Cuban doctor who has worked into the pockets of older people in some of the disaster zones around and their leaflet, More Money in the world called into Sparcells sur- Your Pocket sets out a number of gery in June to find out about Brit- ways that the charity can help people get hold of cash that is due to ish health provision. them.

It guides people through the maze of allowances and benefits.

Age Concern staff also offer free consultations at home or at work, and help with form filling.

Some of the benefits that people fail to claim are: pension credit which guarantees a minimum income each year; housing benefit, and help with council tax. People over 65 who need help with personal care can claim attendance Drs Kandiah and Nunez allowance and their carers should Dr Carlos Nunez, head of the also claim. In some cases, free den2,400 strong Henry Reeve emer- tal treatment is available as well as gency brigade, worked in Paki- travel costs to hospital and help stan after the earthquake in 2005 towards spectacles.

Age Concern wants people to and was on standby to go to the rescue of New Orleans after Hur- encourage their older friends and ricane Katrina struck in 2006 - but family to claim their benefits as the Americans preferred to ignore this could dramatically improve their enemy’s offer of assistance. their quality of life and lift many “We went to Guatamala instead out of poverty.

To find out more of the services because there were terrible tropical storms there,” said Dr Nunez. provided by Age Concern SwinDr Kandy Kandiah, who has don, to join as a volunteer or to built close links with Cuba,said he lend your support in other ways was delighted to show Dr Nunez and to seek advice with claiming his practice. “The Cuban medical benefits - call 692166, visit Number service is unbelievably good and One Milton Road, Swindon or mail: is spreading its good practice swindon@ageconcernswindon.org.uk www.ageconcern.org.uk around the world.”

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Making recycling a simple thing to do After a cautious start over the last few years, Swindon Council is about to make huge changes in the way waste is collected across the town - and it involves everybody cooperating to make the new system work effectively. If the community responds, Swindon will have one of the best recycling and waste collection services in Britain.

Cabinet lead member David Wren said all political parties backed the In late June and early July information leaflets will be distributed explaining the new systems being introduced over the next eight moves which have a lot of public support. “We’ve studied what other councils have being doing. We’ve come up with a plan which is simple months which include: • distributing additional orange recycling boxes to every house (flats to understand, which the majority will buy into and will significantly will be included next year) - apart from West Swindon which already increase the amount of recycling across the borough.”

Council refuse officers have surveyed every street for suitability to has weekly recycling and fortnightly wheelie bin collections; • from 23 July, weekly kerbside collections of glass bottles and jars, use recycling boxes and wheelie bins and a team of waste ambassadors will work in each area as the boxes are delivered to help people paper, card, food tins, drink cans, textiles and aerosols; • in July, fortnightly collection of plastic bottles in special sacks costing understand how they can recycle more.

They will also be supporting the introduction of wheelie bins from 20p from council outlets (4 free bags will be delivered with the recycling September so that people learn how to put less into them. box); For details see the information to be distributed with recycling boxes, • fortnightly free collection of garden waste; • the delivery of wheelie bins for non-recyclables to all houses in call 445501 or see www.swindon.gov.uk September for the start of fortnighly collections; The message is on the box. George Walker, head of waste management, left, with Bill • introduction of a new recycling and wheelie bin hotline: 445501.

Fisher, director of Swindon Commercial Services with some of the 70,000 recycling

Could you be a champion?

boxes ready to be distributed and one of the 11 bright yellow collecting vehicles which are becoming a familiar site on Swindon’s streets

The Swindon Council recycling team is looking for innovative ways to spread their message and would like to hear from volunteers willing to be local recycling champions to: • encourage neighbours and friends to recycle as much as possible; • join council focus groups to give feedback on the new recycling schemes and materials used to promote them; • help promote new recycling schemes; • help out at recycling events; • get work colleagues or places of worship to adopt recycling and re-use schemes.

There are plans for: quarterly meetings with recycling champions; trips and workshops to increase knowledge on waste and recycling, so information can be passed on; junk swap, education and event days at a neighbourhood level.

If you’re a champion, contact Swindon Commercial Services to express your interest on 445501 or mail: hsanderson@swindon.gov.uk

Getting to grips with graffiti Council offers free cleaning service and £100 reward

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Armed with a second recently delivered graffiti cleaning machine, Swindon Council is taking the battle to the taggers, but needs more front line troops to report graffiti as soon as it appears.

Coun Keith Williams said that some people are resigned to having their homes daubed with paint and much of the time graffiti goes unreported. “Unfortunately some homeowners are happy to have tags on their property. There seems to be a degree of acceptance, yet the council will get rid of it from private property free of charge.

The important thing is to report new tags on houses, fences or street furniture as soon as possible.”

The high powered machines will remove graffiti from all surfaces.

Whilst the operatives have experi- ticed a difference in his Shaw & ence to prevent damage, property Nine Elms neighbourhood. “I think owners have to sign a disclaimer. people are appreciating that the The high pressure spray will re- graffiti is being tackled, but we all move timber stain or paint from a need to react more quickly so that building but, if householders can the vandals don’t get away with provide a pot to match, the graffiti their damage.”

The council is targeting taggers removers are happy to retouch the with prosecutions and residents surface.

Call 463463 to arrange for the are encouraged to contact Crimestoppers on 555 1111 or the Swingraffiti squad to remove it.

In the March Link, coun Williams don Graffiti Hotline on 463463 with called on residents to take respon- information.

There is a £100 reward if a consibility and not expect someone else to make the call. He has no- viction is made.

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A second litter pick and woodland tidy up takes place on Sunday 8 July, 10am to 12noon. Anybody interested in taking part is welcome to join in.

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Reclaiming the community from the litterbugs People are putting in the effort to keep their neighbourhoods tidy by getting out and working with the council or doing the job themselves.

On 19 May Shaw Residents’ Association held a second litter pick around the village centre and along Shaw Ridge.

On 25 May youngsters from Toothill’s Oliver Tomkins Junior School tackled the litter in the open space by Whitehill Brook, next to the West Swindon Centre.

With supervision from Swindon Council neighbourhood wardens they painted over the graffiti on the wooden edging at the sitting area by the lakes and the wardens waded into the stream to remove at least ten Asda trolleys.

On 31 May over sixty council staff descended upon Shaw and Eastleaze to blitz litter and graffiti, including removing 4 tons of flytipped rubbish in Above, Oliver Tomkins youngsters with neighbourhood wardens Matt Castleton Road.

Armstrong, Warrick Lynham, Geraldine Scullion, Martyn Henly On 10 June Haydon Wick residents joined parish councillors on a litter pick Below, Haydon residents get to grips with litter in Bluebell Copse at Bluebell Copse, off Westfield Way. The parish council has asked Swindon Council and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to survey the trees and wildlife with a view to starting a community group which will take on the long term management of the woodland through a programme of coppicing and hedgelaying.

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Police men and women are now to be seen in more places around Haydon Wick, thanks to the backing of Haydon Wick parish council.

Councillors agreed to pay for two mountain bikes after the need for greater visibility of community support officers was raised at a meeting to set up the local Neighbourhood Policing Team in March which identified anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and speeding as priority work areas.

PCSO Jess Sowden said the bikes, supplied by Mitchell Cycles at a discount, will allow greater presence of the police around the neighbourhood. “It means we can be seen in more places in Haydon Lee Hare and Jess Sowden with the Wick, Greenmeadow, Taw Hill and parish council branded bikes Haydon End during the day; the parish council were very quick to Mini-motos - coming to get you support the idea.”

In mid-June the police were preParish councillor Phil Eagles said sented with two BMW off road mothe council was happy to support torbikes to make it easier to chase the police. “Haydon Wick is a rela- mini-moto and go-ped riders on foottively low crime area and we want paths. West Swindon, where there to keep it that way. The bikes mean is a major nuisence problem, is to be speed of response and high visibil- targetted initially. Confiscated maity which will deter people up to chinery could be crushed. no good, and will give assurance The £20,000 cost has been met to residents that the police are by the Swindon Community Safety around to help.”

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According to a recent survey by Endsleigh Insurance Swindon is the second safest town in the country.

Apparently, over the last four • Protect glass by fitting a grill or years, Swindon residents were 50 strong wire mesh to the inside of per cent less likely to make a claim the window and nail up or fit locks to any windows that can be than the average householder.

But with the lazy days of sum- opened. mer upon us, we’re likely to leave • Prevent anyone seeing into your windows, garages and sheds open shed by placing curtains or which could give opportunist other coverings over the window thieves the chance to strike. And or blacken them out with paint. leave a property empty for holiMuch of the above advice applies days without telling family or to garages, but consider fitting: friends is a recipe for disaster, ac• high security locks that can be cording to the police. fitted to the sides of an ‘up and over’ Some straightforward steps can door. These are easily obtained from be taken to avoid aggravation and DIY stores and locksmiths. heartache from a break-in writes • a simple, low cost, battery operBob Walton, Crime Reduction Ofated shed alarm to the door of your ficer at Swindon police. shed or garage may warn of any • Many people take great care attempted break into your propwhen securing their homes but pay erty and can act as a deterrent. little attention to their sheds or outbuildings. Think how much Other points of action: valuable property is stored there: • clearly and indelibly mark your lawn mowers, golf clubs, bicycles property with your name and postand scooters, plus tools that can be code; • take photographs of any valuused to break into a house; • Fit the door with two closed able property for identification; hardened steel shackle padlocks, • never leave tools or ladders unfixed to robust hasps and staples attended in the garden; that must be bolted through the • secure items such as bicycles to door of the shed and reinforced at the structure of a building or the back with a steel plate. One chain as many items together lock should be fixed about a third as possible, fastening the chain of the way down from the top and with a closed shackle padlock. the other, a third of the way up For further crime prevention asfrom the bottom. This will make sistance, contact Bob Walton or the door a lot less easy to force. Use Geoff Suffolk on 0845 4087000. the locks at all times.

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Parents open morning 18 July, 9am to 11.30am.

Year 6 guides will show visitors around, including lessons covering most curriculum areas.

Headteacher Laura Brierley said, “everybody comments that although we have 320 children, we’ve managed to maintain a very warm and friendly atmosphere where children feel confident and enjoy learning.”

Parents of children who will be 4 before 31 August 2008 have to apply for school places by 8 November.

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Call for skatepark in the North A group of Nova Hreod pupils have set themselves the task of securing a skate park somewhere in North Swindon.

The five boys chose the challenge as part of their Year 10 citizenship course and they have been contacting local businesses, organisations and councillors to support the project.

“We gained over 100 names on a petition from pupils and teachers within a few days of starting it in May,” said Paul Belcher. “Over the summer holidays we’re going to go knocking on doors and setting up stalls in the town centre Skateboard park petitioners, Michael and North Swindon to get more Hadcraft, Ryan Ockwell, Paul Belcher, signatures.”

Craig Ford, Chris Smith Chris Smith said, “the Oasis is too far away for most skaters in Art and Olympics together North Swindon; we need a park Nova Hreod School will host the closer to where the users are. It Swindon & Wiltshire launch of a would benefit the community a national Olympic Arts Project on 4 lot. Jason Williams, who is a pro- July which will see Kevin Whitney, skater, has given us his backing the official Olympic artist working which is great.” with schools around the country The team is running its petition providing corporate sponsorship until the end of the year. can be secured.

Citizenship coordinator Teresa The five year project is designed Preece is proud of the group. to involve, enthuse and motivate “They’ve put in a lot of work re- young people in illustrating the searching a project which they feel Olympics through art, whether they passionate about.” are inclined to sports or not.

School strikes gold again Bradon Forest School has been successful in gaining the Arts Council England Arts Mark Gold Award, in recognition of the continued high level of provision in the arts.

The award scheme is open to every the profile of the arts in the school school in England and provides a and local community. benchmark for arts provision which Headteacher Len Spiers said he encourages schools to consider the is delighted that Bradon Forest opportunities they offer in art, dance, continues to be recognised for its drama and music. commitment to arts and education.

The Artsmark application proc- “The redesignation for the national ess acts as an auditing tool, through quality mark is a reflection of fanwhich schools may gain an overall tastic work going on in all areas of picture of their arts education pro- the school. vision. By gaining an Artsmark a “We’re fortunate to have such school shows its commitment to dedicated and talented teaching the wider development of young and support staff to deliver our people and teachers and to raising programme to such a high level.”

Arts in action in the community A small group of Year 8 and 9 pupils have been ‘on tour’ to primary schools in Swindon with a piece of Commedia Dell Arte which they devised themselves, using props made at a Mask Academy workshop held by Michael Chase of Glasshouse Masks last November.

Performing Arts Manager Kate Cady said, “not content with picking one character each and sticking to it, they take it in turns to become a different mask in each scene. This is an amazing task as each character requires a different voice and persona, but the students adopt each style with ease and confidence.”

Find out more about Commedia and download a worksheet on making masks from: www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

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15/6/07, 10:30 am

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After 25 years at the Town Hall, Swindon’s media art studios has a new name and a state of the art suite full of the latest computer equipment and software at the Wyvern.

Create provides facilities for the head of Create Studios. “We dios in the town hall in the early animation, film making, graphic have a place where artists, indi- 1980s said, “I’m really pleased that art, photography, web design, viduals and groups can come to- media has risen to the top of the music and anything which uses gether, be inspired and get crea- arts agenda; there are so many opportunities for people to be intechnology in creative ways. There tive with the latest technologies.

“Being able to teach students on volved.” are courses for all ages and abiliCall 465399 for details of sumties and it’s possible to hire equip- the best software and equipment ment and editing facilities if you around and knowing things won’t mer holiday activities and courses for adults and children from Sepgo wrong is a great attraction.” want to pursue a project.

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“It’s the start of a new and excitwww.createstudios.org.uk ing era for us,” said Stuart Webb, original Swindon Media Arts Stu-

Debut for the big media bus

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Behind the Flux project, from left, Shahina Johnson, director of Mobile Media, Evil Twin digital artists Mark and James Carroll, Kirsty Carter, Director of Artsmad, Jill Olney, administrator, Ella Bissett-Johnson, community coordinator, Marilyn Fitzgerald, mobile media project coordinator, Faye Pound, Swindon Arts Services

An eye-catching American Airstream bus has hit the road, bringing media studies to the streets.

Part of the three-year Flux project, managed by Artsmad, the bus has been fitted out with fast Intel processor Macintosh computers capable of creating and editing animated films. It can also be turned into a mini cinema for up to 12 people or a recording studio.

The project is funded by the government’s Invest to Save budget and will be staffed by professional digital video and sound artists. The bus will be mainly based in North Swindon and the facilities will be incorporated into delivering the arts curriculum at Isambard Community School, as well as visiting primary schools and youth events.

Look out for the bus at the West Swindon Big Youth Day at Link Centre on 7 July.

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Looking to the future at Greendown Youngsters will have a glimpse of things to come at Greendown as the West Swindon secondary school publicises its newly won specialist status on 20 July.

Year 5 pupils from eight West Swindon primary schools have been invited to experience half hour taster sessions in each of the school’s specialist areas of Maths, Computing and Sport.

Later in the day there will be time to play in an inflatable Laser Quest. Parents will also be invited to visit and see what the school has on offer. The afternoon will end with the launch of 1,000 sponsored balloons and a charity auction.

Throughout the day, events will be filmed and relayed on giant screens by 8th Day Studios who are developing the school’s virtual learning environment. Head of Maths, Gill Sarjent explained that internet access to curriculum materials from home computers will play a central role in the school’s future.

The primary schools were all key to the bid for specialist status said Ms Sarjent. “We’ve had a lot of support from the primaries, and we’ll be keeping the promises we made to them.”

As part of Greendown’s commitment, they have arranged for Esprit Gymnastics to run a short course in each school. There will also be a six week afterschool dance course for Year 4 pupils and support for Peatmoor Primary as they set up a student newsletter.

Work will begin shortly on new facilities, including an independent learning suite, a fitness suite and a sports’ classroom.

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School logos tell stories Two new schools will open in September and symbols have been chosen to ensure each can be easily recognised.

In Freshbrook the new primary school which brings together Freshbrook and Windmill Hill will be known as Millbrook Primary.

New graphic design company Creative Rush has come up with an evocative symbol incorporating historical references to both schools.

Governor Sue Thorn said, “the name had been put forward by children and they were asked to vote on several designs for the logo which was developed from pupil

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Isambard, the brand new secondary school at the North Swindon Learning Campus, will have a dynamic graphic unlike any other in Swindon.

Old Town graphic designer Kate Parson worked with school governors and headteacher Rachel Mattey, as well as picking up ideas from prospective pupils at a two day workshop reported in the May Link.

Ms Mattey, right, said everybody is very impressed by portant they’re willing to wear it. the way the design encapsulates “Even those who did not attend Isambard’s desires and aspirations. the workshops could read the ref“She presented us with a number erences to Brunel’s engineering of prototypes which we debated excellence, and the sense that and developed with her. We’re Isambard will give them the road really pleased with the way she to success and the way to reach for distilled all the words and ideas the stars.

“We’re all agreed the logo is a put to her over several months into a strong clearly understood iden- confident assertion of what Isambard stands for as tity for Isambard. the school develops.”

“It will appear in Parents will see the gold and black in diflogo up close at a parferent colour ways on ents’ evening on 4 July signage, printed matewhere the new Parent rial and of course the Teacher Association uniform which will be will be raising money. a black sweatshirt and The 200 Year 7 chilgold polo shirt.” dren who start at She said children signed up for Isambard had de- Isambard in mid-September will clared the logo modern, funky and come together for the first time on up to their expectations. Most im- 5 July.

1 July 07

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14/6/07, 6:43 pm

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Put babies on their back to sleep, front to play

INFANT MASSAGE

Redhouse mum, Katherine Rose, wants every parent to learn a simple rule which could save their children from a serious condition costing thousands to treat.

Courses held locally Groups sessions and 1 to 1 at home Also available: complimentary therapies including mums-to-be massage and hot stone therapy For more details contact Geraldine on 07821 686570 gez@holistictherapy-athome.co.uk www.holistictherapy-athome.co.uk

Brookside Pre-School Saturday 21 July, from 2pm Pat Russell’s chance to say thank you to children, parents and staff All children who used to attend and parents are invited to be there Call Pat on 771116 for details

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When her son Kieran was six weeks old, Katherine noticed an abnormal lump on the top of his head and two weeks later his head was obviously flatter on one side.

Health professionals told her it was plagiocephaly and reassured her that the lump would grow out as a baby grows and becomes stronger.

However, Katherine was not happy with the advice and discovered the condition in some children can get worse resulting in heads so misshapen that children can’t wear glasses or cycle helmets.

In some cases it can lead to perforated ear drums.

She also learned that treatment is available, gently remoulding the head using a special helmet.

Although her paediatrician strongly advised against it, in accordance with current government guidelines, Katherine and her husband were willing to pay the £2,000 private medical fees to try to help Kieran.

After wearing the helmet for only three months, his head has nearly returned to its normal shape.

Katherine wants to make sure that other parents know about plagiocephaly and brachiocephaly which is very similar, and with other parents is campaigning for the government to amend its advice to parents.

“When you have a baby you’re given leaflets on preventing cot death by placing a baby on its back

Katherine with Kieran and daughter Ellie

to sleep and that message has got through. But parents need to be aware that the pressure on a baby’s head all night and day, and even in a carrycot or car seat can result in the misformed shape.

“The government could change its advice so easily so that parents know babies should be put in different positions. It would lesson the incidence of plagiocephaly and reduce the stress on parents. But for some reason they refuse to issue new guidelines.”

Katherine has set up an online petition to the Prime Minister calling for information to be given to parents about prevention and treatment. There are over 700 signatures so far at: http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ plagiobrachy www.plagiocephalycare.org

Do you like coffee with your milk?

National Childbirth Trust Breastfeeding Counsellors Elena Rossi and Sarah Wilmott are inviting pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to join them for a social get-together at the Dockle Farmhouse in Stratton on Thursday 12 July, 10am, for a coffee morning which they hope to be the first of many Sarah said, “although there are a number of Breastmates support and advice groups, many women have commented that although these are useful in the early days of breastfeeding, they would like to meet others more socially.

“We chose the Dockle Farmhouse because of its family friendly environment and also there are no breastfeeding support groups in East Swindon at present.”

For breastfeeding support and details of NCT services call Elena on 871024 or Sarah on 347618.

Wanted: cloth nappy champs “It’s amazing what parents can do for the environment by switching from disposable to cloth nappies,” says Kate Robinson of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, who is working with the Swindon Real Nappy Network to keep nappies out of landfill.

She added that there was a tremendous response to the article in May’s Link about the trust’s £30 money back voucher scheme which encourages parents to try cloth nappies. And you don’t have to make a switch if you’re not sure. The trust has loan kits including several styles of nappy and wraps to try before you buy.

To help spread the message, Kate would like to hear from parents or carers who could help her promote washable nappies. There are opportunities to meet like minded and friendly people and be part of the exciting new buzz in Swindon in creating a more sustainable lifestyle.

Call Kate on 07876 301617 or mail: kater@wiltshirewildlife.org

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14/6/07, 6:44 pm

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Linking stay at home dads There are an estimated 190,000 stay at home dads across Britain but they can still find that they are isolated by their decision to look after the children.

Many extend the paternity leave available to them and some dads decide with partners that they are in a better position to be at home with young children.

Andy Hamer from Sparcells took a twelve month sabbatical from SwinColin with his daughters, Lauren, Emma and Page don Council to look after his daughter Jessica and gallop, has been looking after his would recommend any dad to take four children for over six years, the opportunity to spend more after retiring from stable work time with their young children. through injury.

He is well known waiting for his “Being at home has been excellent.

It’s been great to have time to see daughters at Brook Field Primary and on the touchline watching his Jessica grow up.”

The downside has been that the son CJ play for Lydiard FC. He did not go to toddler groups majority of groups are aimed at women. A dads’ group at Abbey with the children, but enjoys trips Meads disbanded after a few weeks to Lydiard Park and taking them because of lack of interest. Andy to local play areas. He feels that found that activity based sessions stay at home dads can be forgotten such as Tumble Tots were the most by society.

“Looking after children is no welcoming, including all carers equally. “Interaction with moth- longer women’s work. The whole ers is difficult and they tend to stay macho man thing no longer exists. with their friends. It’s been a bit You’ve got to have some bottle to disappointing that they don’t take make the commitment.” that extra step.”

Stay at home dads can comment Former jockey Colin Hickey and share ideas at: from The Prinnells, who once rode www.swindonlink.com/forum the famous Red Rum on a training

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Headstarts Day Nursery Established 1990

Fresh air learning Children at Abbey Meads Primary School discovered they can learn just as well outside the classroom as inside on a day in mid-June run by outdoors expert Gyles Morris.

The youngsters made sculptures from material scavenged from their school grounds, wove Indian dream catchers, whittled sticks and even lit fires using flints.

Gyles said, “children won’t look after their environment unless they are given the chance to engage their awe and wonder of what’s around them.”

Year 5 pupil Lalina Patel said, “I really liked making the dream catcher; the idea of catching a dream is very interesting.”

Penny Clarke said, “it was nice and peaceful to work on the school field and do interesting things. It was a fun adventure.”

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Delta Business Park, Westlea West Swindon. Tel: 877779 & The Children’s Centre at Robert le Kyng Westcott Street, Swindon. Tel: 484934

Headstarts is a friendly, ‘family’ nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where every child benefits from individual attention. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £144 per week full time Funded child-care credits available.** Government Funded Nursery Sessions**

For further information or to arrange a visit, call 877779 or 484934

✁

Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day worth £44 per week Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds*

SPECIAL OFFER FREE child care worth £50 with this advert* *Conditions apply **Rates may vary

1 July 07

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A relieved Nicola said, “we went through so much upset; it’s a huge relief to know my children will go to school together. I cannot describe how excluded we felt.

“This shouldn’t happen in the future. Catchment areas should be abolished where siblings are concerned.”

ME

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Happy Harvey with Nicola and Sophie

North schools full up after population shift

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Nicola,right, was distraught when she learned that her son Harvey had a place at Moredon, a mile away from his sister Sophie at Haydonleigh.

“All I kept imagining was a photo of Sophie in a red uniform on one side of the fireplace and my little boy Harvey on the other side in a different colour.”

Three years ago, the family endured months of uncertainty over a school place for Sophie. Then, living in Abbey Meads, they were told that there was no room in their closest school because siblings had priority.

However Swindon Council has now agreed to open another reception class at Haydonleigh and Harvey will be able to go there.

Parents, having moved into new houses in Priory Vale are turning up at North Swindon primary schools expecting a place, only to be told none are available for infants, reception and some cases Year 1.

According to coun Gary Perkins, lead member for childrens’ services, the marketing of Priory Vale has been so successful there has been an unpredicted shift of population to the northern expansion from West Swindon where there are primary school places available.

If you are considering a move, check with Swindon Council schools admissions on 463000 on availability of places in the next few years.

• North Swindon MP Michael Wills held a public meeting for parents on Saturday 16 June, after The Link went to press

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Siblings joined after anxious wait Devastated by the news that their two children would have to attend different primary schools, Nicola and Martin Richards of Woodhall Park say there must be changes in the present system of allocation.

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

15/6/07, 10:32 am

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The summer music concerts continue in the Old Town Bowl with world music from the Caribbean, Africa (with Celtic influences), Lember Hussainpuri at the Mela and South America ringing out across Town Gardens. See the advert on page 22 for details of performers and ticket details.

On 7 July, proms style classics, accompanied by fantastic fireworks burst forth with all the pomp and appropriate circumstances. Ticket details are on page 28.

We can all see Cinderella at the Wyvern this year. Oh yes you can!

It was a shock when the Wyvern Theatre was shut down last September to allow asbestos to be removed. But it’s all gone, the foyer and auditorium have been refurbished and the entertainment programme is about to restart.

Last year’s cancelled panto Cinderella is back on and former Bond girl Britt Eckland has agreed to don the tiara, wave her wand, fly over from Sweden and make dreams come true in one of fairyland’s most enchanting stories.

Britt has booked her flight, the pumpkins have been planted and there is an open invitation for the biggest ball the theatre has ever seen. This year’s show - from Friday 7 December to Sunday 6 JanuThe Wyvern Theatre was due ary - promises to be a fitting specto announce its reopening date tacle for the new look Wyvern and on 18 June, after The Link and is the ideal family Christmas went to press. holiday treat.

See www.wyverntheatre.org.uk Tickets start at £5 from the box for programme details office on 528881.

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*Ticket only. Call 692588 for details

Blunsdon TO PURTON TADPOLE LANE Station NORTH Tadpole Lane SWINDON Tel: 771615 Trains: 11am - 4pm Cafe, shop and WEST SWINDON free parking BLUNSDON STATION

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Marvellous Mela set for 28 July Swindon’s 5th Mela in the Town Gardens will be a colourful celebration of all things Asian with live music, dance and activities for all the family. be able to take part in the popular Some of the top names from the mass dance workshops. world of Asian entertainment will There will be plenty of ways to take to the three stages. Music will learn about Asian arts in the Activifeature Bollywood, Bangra, modties Zone and there’ll be demonern and traditional styles. strations of how to tie a sari or a The performers may not all be turban. professional but there’s certainly Anyone needing to take a nothing amateur about them. Asli breather should head for the Health Baharan Punjab Diyan are likely to Zone for Indian head massage, provide one of the highlights of the reflexology, aromatherapy, reiki day. The UK’s leading Punjabi folk and workshops in tai chi, yoga and dance group is accompanied by pilates.

North Indian dance rhythms on the Younger visitors will be catered traditional Dhol drum. for in the special kids’ zone, and to The Swindon Dhollies, Bhangra refresh, the large number of food Dancers and Mughda dance group stalls will cater for every need. will all showcase their talents.

Entry to the event is free.

Those inspired to get moving will www.swindonmela.com

70th Anniversary of the closure of Blunsdon Station Saturday 21st July Sunday 22nd July

B4553

W I D E W I D W I DE E

Model Railway Weekend Saturday 7th July Sunday 8th July

HAYDON WICK

Licenced to carry out weddings and naming ceremonies www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

22

Swindon Wide Maharajah shares 5 star success with other Asian outlets

The secret of Purton’s hidden treasure is out after The Maharajah received 5 stars in the Scores on the Doors food safety rating scheme.

Environmental health inspectors from North Wilts District Council were so impressed with the food and health hygiene compliance systems put in place by owner Kalique Ali that they invited him to act as a consultant for the scheme.

Principal Environmental Health Officer, Martin Thorne, and his team have visited 40 premises in North Wiltshire since the scheme’s launch at the start of the year.

SUE’S GALLERY & FRAMING 105 High Street, Cricklade Tel. 01793 759016 www.suesgallery.co.uk Specialist framer of memorabillia, unusual objects, cross stitches, jigsaws Dry mounting and laminating Portrait commissions, limited edition prints etc.

Fine Art Trade Guild Commended Framer

They assess how food is handled, the condition of the rooms where it is prepared and the quality of written records and management which are rated on an easy to understand 0 to 5 star score.

Mr Thorne said, “we were hugely impressed with Khalique’s straight forward system of monitoring compliance with the legislation and asked him to help us provide guidance to other restaurateurs.

“Whilst Asian restaurants mostly comply with legislation, they have to demonstrate they are doing so by providing written records for inspection. The language barrier is a problem and they were letting themselves down by not having adequate systems in place to show that they are doing things properly.”

Khalique explained that he had applied his training as a systems engineer to break down the food standards legislation into simple step-by-step check sheets for his staff so that they know what to do for every operation in the kitchen.

In May he made a joint presentation with Martin to 36 restaurant owners in Chippenham where they gave practical illustrations of how to monitor and manage hygiene

Score of approval for The Maharajah.

Martin Thorne with Khalique Ali and his staff issues in both English and Bengali.

Khalique said Martin had used a computer whilst he captured attention by using an onion and a stick to illustrate his points. “The onion is the basis of all Asian food; good stock is made from good onions. But if they are not fresh from the start, everything served in a restaurant will suffer. Breaking the stick in front of the other owners was my way of telling them that once it’s snapped you cannot put it together again.”

Feedback from restaurant owners has been good and another course will run shortly. “Obviously

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I’m very pleased that the Maharajah has been rated as a 5 star restaurant but I don’t want to be on my own,” said Khalique.

“It’s a privilege to work with the Environmental Health department to improve the standards. Most owners just think they want to interfere and close them down but in North Wilts they want to help restaurants improve because this will benefit our customers.”

Link readers obviously know a good thing when they taste it because The Maharajah has advertised on the front page of the magazine for nearly ten years.

23

Swindon Wide Award for pub at the heart of Shaw’s community The Village Inn’s fund raising and community efforts have been recognised with a national award from owners Mitchells and Butlers.

Six pubs were chosen from the chain’s 200 businesses for the impact they have made on their local communities and the Shaw pub picked up a prize of £1000.

Landlady, Greta Richards, who took over 15 months ago, set out to involve staff, customers and their families in a variety of events, supporting a number of charities. In the last year, they have raised over £4,000.

Celebrating the award, Greta Richards, “Come in anytime and right, with assistant manager Sheila there’s fundraising going on for a good cause,” she said. “In Greta said that the brewers the last year, customers have awards ceremony event was a helped Breast Cancer Care, Chil- great opportunity to read the portdren in Need, local playgroups and folios put together by other pubs Brookfield Primary. We’ve cel- and to pick up a few ideas for future ebrated St George’s Day, held a events.

Blue Night to raise awareness of Following last year’s success, men’s cancers and several theme another pink party is planned for and fancy dress evenings.”

July in aid of breast cancer chariIn memory of Leo the Hat, a well ties. In September, regulars will be known and popular pool player who putting on the style as they celdied last year, the £1000 prize ebrate the pub’s 20th birthday with money will go to CLIC Sarjent. a black tie and tiara night.

A place of tranquility for body and mind situated in The Pavilion - at Blunsdon House

Tel: 01793 720609

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

What’s On in July Comedy

Theatre

Monday 2nd, 8pm Mark Thomas: As Used on the Famous Nelson Mandela...A deeply funny, deeply disturbing journey of Mark’s rampage through the arms trade. Under a fairly flimsy disguise and with the use of some worryingly poor accents, Mark managed to set himself up as an arms dealer and a PR adviser on human rights issues.

Saturday 14th, & Sunday 15th, 7pm The Mysterious Murder of the Maestro performed by Propel. £7.

£14. Arts Centre

Arts Centre Friday 20th, 7.30pm Cry Blue Murder. Heartbreak Productions return with a murder mystery spoof set in the 1920s.

Raucous humour combined with twists, turns and red herrings. Strong language and sexual innuendo so recommended for over 12s. Tickets

Wednesday 11th, 7.30pm Edinburgh Fringe Preview: Howard £10; 12-16 years £6, from Lydiard Read and Terry Saunders. £6. Arts House and Swindon Information

Centre. Lydiard Lawn. See page 29

Centre

to win tickets Thursday 12th, 7.30pm Edinburgh Fringe Preview: Scot Stephen Carlin one of the fastest rising talents in the business. Also showing is David Ward, with a show taking in themes of being a big man, gambling addiction, prison and professional golf. £6. Arts Centre

Dance Saturday 28th, 7.30pm Cadley Dance. A showcase of talent including a variety of dance styles from hip hop to songs fromthe shows.

£7.50. Arts Centre

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Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ Tel: 01793 861327 Fax: 01793 861325 Email: info@wragbarn.com www.wragbarn.com

Who dunnit on Lydiard’s lawn?

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

Business Meetings Offering the ideal environment for totally stress free meetings

Sunday Carvery Lunch - £13.50 per head Come and enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carvery Lunch Service commences at 12 noon. Booking in advance is advisable

Society & Company Golf Days The perfect location for your Golfing “Away Day” 18 - 36 hole packages available and can be tailored to suit your requirements Golf Professional services can be included For further information, available dates and bookings call 01793 861327 Log on and register to our new interactive website www.wragbarn.com to view the latest news and receive updates on all future events

15/6/07, 10:34 am

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Swindon Wide What’s July fundraising

Swindon’s widest choice of discounted

Art & Craft products om

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Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Estate, Swindon

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

Well worth a visit!

Tel/Fax 01793 513069 www.purplenimbus.co.uk

By Sue ◆ Your local family hairdresser ◆ 25% discount for Seniors

Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322

HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

Having a party, BBQ or family get together?

With over 15 years experience in the brewing trade Three Castles Brewery can supply a selection of award winning Ales from our microbrewery covering the Swindon area - DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR Choose from 5 Real Ales of various strengths in either 9 gallon cask (72pints), 20 litre polypin (36pints) or 10 litre minipin (18pints)

Country & Western Evening in aid of Age Concern Swindon Saturday 7 July, 8pm to 11.30pm Dance to music from Trevor Howard, also line dancing exhibition & tuition, gun fight and shoot out, ploughmans supper, bar

Liden Community Centre Tickets £7 from Mel Richards on 692166 or from1 Milton Road Bridlewood Primary School Fete Saturday 7 July, 12noon to 2pm Bouncy castle, nail art, face painting, raffle, pots of plenty

Redhouse/Ash Brake Abbey Meads Primary School Saturday 7 July, 2pm to 5pm St. Augustine’s Church Summer Fayre Saturday 7 July, 11am Stalls and cream teas

Summers Street, Rodbourne

Call Julie on 882257 to book a stall

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch ~ Tapestry ~ Rowan ~ Jaeger ~ Patons ~ Yarns and Patterns We’ll also gladly order anything else you need.

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

In the Stable A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

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

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Stratton Premier Club

Brookfield Primary School Summer Fun Day Sunday 8 July Books, jewellery,face painting, bouncy castle, beat the goalie

Call or email for pricing and delivery: THREE CASTLES BREWERY 12, SALISBURY ROAD BUSINESS PARK, PEWSEYSN9 5PZ Tel: 01672 564433 Email: sales@threecastlesbrewery.co.uk

21 July 07

Fun Day in aid of Prospect Hospice Sunday 1 July, noon to 8pm Bucking bronco, bouncy castle, poker tournament

Catherine Wayte Primary School Summer Fete Friday 13 July 6pm to 9pm Barbecue, bar, raffle, bouncy castle, fun stalls, face painting

Children & Family Events Sat 7th & Sun 8th, 11am to 4pm Model Railway Weekend. Swindon

& Cricklade Railway. See page 21 Saturdays 7th & 21st, 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers. Step back in time to meet engine drivers, firemen and railway workers of GWR.

£6, child £4, family £16. Steam.

Saturday 21st, 11am to 3pm Railway Village Museum. Open as part of the Grand Designs exhibition.

£1, children 50p. Railway Village Saturday 28th, 12noon to 7pm Swindon Mela: a feast of sound, colour and aroma. See page 21. Free.

Old Town Gardens Thursday 26th to 2nd September, 11am to 5pm Harry Potter Trail. Experience the Potter magic where scenes from the movie were filmed. Normal admission

charges. Lacock Abbey Tuesday 31st,10.30am to 12.30pm & 2pm to 4pm Mammal Madness. Discover the creatures that live at Westonbirt and how they survive, then make your own animal mask or badge. Weather permitting, the event will include some small mammal trapping.

Morning session for ages 5 to 8, afternoon for 9 to 11s. £3.50 per

child. Admission £7 Westonbirt Arboretum

adults.

Call 727405 to book a craft stall Orchid Vale Primary School Haydon End Wild West Fete Saturday 14 July, 2pm to 4pm Village Fayre Sun Inn, Lydiard Millicent Saturday 14 July, 12 noon to 4pm BBQ, fancy dress, bowling for a pig, stalls, competitions, games

Organised by Purton and Lydiard Charity Fund Call 771453 to book a stall St. Augustine’s Church Centenary Reunion and Flower Festival Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 July

Summers Street, Rodbourne Psychic Evening with Shirley Townsend in aid of Age Concern Swindon Tuesday 17 July, 7.30pm to 10pm

Coleview Community Centre Tickets £7 from Mel Richards on 692166 or from1 Milton Road Willows Family Walk & Fun Run in aid of Willows Counselling & Debt Advice Service Saturday 14 July, from 10.30am

Coate Water Country Park For sponsor form call 728345 or willowswalk@googlemail.com

15/6/07, 10:35 am

Year 1/2 teacher Clare Kennedy with James and Samantha Carr and Emily Vanes, invite you to Orchid Vale to enjoy the Wild West - see left To September Grand Designs: the birth of Swindon’s Railway Village. See how the village has evolved from Brunel’s first plans. Normal admission

charges. Steam

Talks Wednesday 4th, 10.15am Cunard Line Cruising. A talk by Geoff Miller at the meeting of Thamesdown Probus. Call Dan

Dangerfield 763733 for details.

Blunsdon House Hotel Wednesday 18th, 10.15am Big Muskie and Draglines. Hamish Orr-Ewing speaks to Thamesown Probus. Call Dan Dangerfield 763733

for details. Blunsdon House Hotel

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On in July Music

Exhibitions

Thursday 5th to Sat 7th, 7.30pm K School of Music. A mixture of fun, songs and dance. £6. Call 695406.

To Saturday 7th, 10am to 5pm

THE ALL NEW

Swindon Rendezvous

Arts Centre Saturday 7th, 6pm Classical Bowl. A musical extravaganza from the City of London Sinfonia starring mezzo-soprano Yvonne Howard. Fireworks finale.

Tickets £20 in advance from Arts Centre, £24 on the day, family £50; £66 on the day. Old Town Bowl Wednesday 4th, 7.30pm Centenary Celebration Organ Recital by Professor Dr Ian Tracey, Organist & Master of the Choristers, Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, Liverpool City Organist. £7.50 (incl

refreshments), tickets from 693652 Fresh Air 2007. 8th Quenington or 726597 or on the door. St Sculpture Show. Free. Lunches & Augustine’s Church, Summers Street teas. Old Rectory, Quenington, near Cirencester. Details from Brewery Saturday 7th, 6pm Arts, Cirencester, tel: 01285 657181 The Proms at Lacock. A wide variety of classics and film scores performed

by London Gala Orchesta with fantastic fireworks and laser light shows. £27.50, child £12 in advance

on 0870 8422230. Lacock Abbey Saturday 14th, 6pm Baka Beyond with Baka Gbine. A unique blend of African and Celtic music.Tickets £11 in advance from

Arts Centre, £13 on the day; family £36, £44 on the day. Old Town Bowl Saturday 28th, 7.15pm Lembher Hussainpuri: in conjunction with Swindon Mela. Lembher is widely respected and acclaimed for his success in both traditional and new school Bhangrat. Tickets £11 in

To Saturday 7th Open Art. Showcase of work by Swindon’s artists in partnership with Artsminds. Free. Arts Centre Tuesday 10 July to 25 August Ken White New Work. Best known for his murals, Ken has produced several series of easel paintings on varied subjects from Ancient Egypt to the railway yards where he worked in his youth. Free. Arts Centre To 18th August, Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Pong to Playstation. 35 years of working computer games consoles.

Free. Museum of Computing in Swindon, University of Bath in advance from Arts Centre, £13 on Swindon, Oakfield Campus the day; family £36, £44 on the day. Wednesday 18 July, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm.

Old Town Bowl Archaeological Finds Day during Archaeology Week, with Katie Hinds, Wiltshire’s Finds Liaison Officer.

Outdoors Sunday 1st, 10am to 12 noon Coate’s Canal Connections. Coate Water was originally a reservoir for the Wilts & Berks Canal. There are remains of the canal company’s constructions hidden in the depths of the undergrowth. Discover where they are on this 3 mile walk. Wear stout footwear and old clothes. Free.

Book on 490150. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery To 1st September Artist and Model. Artists’ portrayal of themselves and others, contrasting photography and painting in works

by Steven Pippin, John Bellany and William Roberts. Free. Swindon

490150. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre

Confirm date, time and price with the venue

21 July 07

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has now been extended to 7 days a week Sunday - Thursday £16.00 per person Fridays & Saturdays £19.00 per person

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RESERVE A TABLE FOR YOUR BIRTH DATE If a table is booked for 6 or more the birthday boy or girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free Birthday must be on actual day booked) Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner I.D. WILL BE REQUIRED

FREE BOTTLE OF WINE

Venues

Sunday 22nd, 2pm to 6pm The Way through the Woods. A 6 mile walk visiting the Coate and Lawn Tree Collection, returning through Great Copse ancient woodland. Wear stout footwear. Free. Book on

Free. Book on 490150. Meet at Coate Water Ranger Centre

The ALL YOU CAN EAT MENU

Museum and Art Gallery

Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Coate Water Rangers Tel: 490150 Lacock Abbey Tel: 0870 8422230 Lydiard House Tel: 770401 Steam Kemble Drive. Tel: 466646 Swindon Information Centre Regent Stret. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 University of Bath in Swindon Oakfield Campus, Marlow Avenue Tel: 328800 Westonbirt Arboretum Nr Tetbury Tel: 01666 880220

Saturday 14th, 1.30pm to 4.30pm Dragonfly Daze. Much folklore surrounds these beautiful flying jewels: find out the difference between fact and fiction. Wear stout shoes and bring binoculars if you have them.

A taste of the Orient in the heart of Swindon

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15/6/07, 10:37 am

21 July 07

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14/6/07, 6:07 pm

21 July 07

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14/6/07, 6:09 pm

28

Swindon Wide Ideas abound at fourteenth Festival of Literature Melissa McBride looks back on two weeks of wonderful words, ideas, interaction and fun

The fourteenth Festival of Literature in Swindon was sounded in with the resonant conch-like wail of Jake the Juggler on the watering can, followed by the inviting tones of Danny Sturgeon on the bagpipes.

Despite the unrelenting stormy weather, participants, presenters, radio personalities and friends watched, listened, captivated.

The remainder of the rainy Monday unfolded as smoothly as the wet early hours. At midday at Barbury Castle, the Wild Man of the Woods told tales of an England of old and the value of preserving our green spaces. In the evening, continuing on the green theme, Dr Patrick Harding was a delight at Lydiard House. Presenting the Glory of the Garden, regaling us with poetry and quotes from the Bible to Swindon’s own community poet Tony Hillier, coupled with an old-fashioned slide show the likes of which would challenge anything from Power Point.

In retrospect, it is infinitely interesting to look at each event and see how they fit with each other on each day, how various themes were interwoven and similar ideas popped up in convenient places.

highlights of the festival?

Of course, this is no There were as many as mere coincidence, as there were attendees, festival director, Matt apparent by the air of Holland, spends months excitement that permefinding speakers and ated the fourteen days. scheduling them within Ideas were put forth the two week period in and audience response which the festival takes was tangible. For two place in a way which will weeks Swindon buzzed, prove interesting and Festival! Literature! stimulating for audiIdeas! Art! Discussion! ences.

Contemplation!

In the same day that From climate change Sue Clifford, of Common to read dating, Howard Ground, spoke of EngMarks to Shakespeare, land in Particular and the the Swindon Festival of need to bring local idenLiterature passed its tity back to our commuyear fourteen mark with nities, Rosie Boycott told all the pleasure a teentales of slowing down her Festival director Matt Holland with festival star turn ager has at being one city life for rural healing George Alagiah year older. and making a go at farmThe festival ended on a sunny song of poetry and pain, of life ing on a smallholding.

Roger Mavity, co-author of ‘Life’s exiled from his home in Iraq by the weekend at Lydiard Park and Lower a Pitch,’ stressing the importance tyrannical Ba’ath regime, Royal Shaw Farm, with children, parents of one’s personal presentation and Navy helicopter pilot Lt Com- and carers chirruping with delight one’s interpersonal relations in the mander James Newton explained at the stories and activities on ofbusiness of getting ahead, segued the difficulties of flying in arduous fer.

And on Sunday evening 20 May, smoothly into the next event, an circumstances in the second Gulf interview with Michelle Dewberry, war, followed by former Prime Min- at the Arts Centre, the low, monosuccess story extraordinaire, a ister Sir John Major who played a tone, almost mournful, definitely woman who understands what it straight bat about his book on the poignant, blowing of the watering can signalled the last. Until next origins of cricket. means to get ahead.

One always asks, what were the year.

As Nabeel Yasin was singing his

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The Bowl, Old Town Gardens Saturday 7th July (Gates open 6pm) A magnificent musical extravaganza from The City of London Sinfonia, perfect for an alfresco summer evening under the starlit skies with a firework finale.

Conductor Dominic Wheeler & Mezzo-Soprano Yvonne Howard

Tickets from 01793 530328 or 01793 614837 www.bowlconcerts.co.uk

15/6/07, 10:39 am

29

Swindon Wide Culture and Swindon

Summer drama in the park

Do they go together? asks newcomer Clare Parnell

The lawn in front of Lydiard House is the venue for two exciting openair theatre performances by acclaimed touring company, Heartbreak Productions and you could win tickets to the show.

‘Cry Blue Murder’ on Friday 20 July is a new piece written specially for Heartbreak. Set in the 1920s, the play is a midsummer murder mystery spoof which promises raucous humour combined with twists, turns and red herrings.

The audience are invited to arrive in their 1920s glad rags and enjoy a hilarious evening of supersleuthing with this romp Agatha Christie-esque story.

The play contains strong language and is not considered suitLion and have to kill the Wicked able for under 12s.

But the whole family will enjoy Witch of the West as part of their the second open air theatre show quest to get the Wizard of Oz to on Saturday 11 August, a brand grant their wishes.

Heartbreak Productions are renew adaptation of the classic story nowned for their passionate act‘The Wizard of Oz.’ This won’t be Hollywood at ing, gripping storytelling, innovaLydiard. The new production is set tive staging, atmospheric music in World War II, with Dorothy an and comic interaction. The two evacuee living on a rural farm with performances promise to be great evenings of both adult and family her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry.

Enjoy the fantastic story of how entertainment.

Tickets are available from Dorothy and her dog Toto meet the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lydiard House and Swindon Information Centre, Regent Street on 466454.

Bring a picnic and seats or rugs.

The jokes have been written, told and performed. Swindon is said to be a cultural desert.

Well, on a Friday evening in May ture website gives links to performduring this year’s Swindon Festi- ances, festivals, exhibitions, literaval of Literature two events sched- ture, learning and development, uled simultaneously were sold out; and various arts organisations. philosophy at the Museum and Art Clearly, there is much to do in Gallery and poetry at the Town Swindon, and much to see.

But it helps, perhaps, to be lookHall.

Not only is there the culture of ing from the eyes of a newcomer. thought and creativity, but also Wise man Shunryu Suzuki said: ‘In Swindon has a unique, deep-rooted the beginner’s mind there are many culture through its railway herit- possibilities. In the expert’s mind age. there are few.’

The town’s motto is Salubritas et Here is what a newcomer can Industria , health and industry. find in Swindon: Brunel’s choice of a valley below a • museums and cultural institutiny hilltop settlement in 1840 to tions, which include the Museum house the Great Western Railway of Computing, Railway museum, engineering works belied his wider Richard Jeffries Museum, STEAM interests. He once wrote: ‘Of all the Museum, The Arts Centre, Wyvern wonderful feats I have performed, Theatre, and the Museum and Art just yesterday I performed the most Gallery, which houses one of the wonderful. I produced unanimity most important national and interamong 15 men who were all quar- national collections of modern Britrelling about that most ticklish sub- ish art; ject – taste.’

• reading groups are in double

Win an evening in the park

Lydiard Park has provided The Link with two pairs of tickets for ‘Cry Blue Murder’ and a family ticket for four to see ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

Who starred in the famous 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz: Judy Garland, Marilyn Monroe or Shirley Temple?

Debating culture at the Swindon Festival of Literature, from left, festival director Matt Holland, Libby Grundy, joint executive director of culture, South West Arts, international culture guru Charles Landry, Jan Tierney of the New Swindon Company, former railway apprentice, now artist Gordon Dickinson of No Added Sugar A work of art to one person could be an abomination to another. In industry, as in art, taste plays its vital role. There are many opinions as to how art and culture should be shaped here in Swindon in the future, demonstrated in public debates on art and culture in the last six months.

At a recent discussion artists voiced that an exhibition space is something that would greatly benefit the town. Town centre regeneration officials are working on providing this.

If you Google ‘culture’ and ‘Swindon’ the first hit you get is the council’s website, followed by 1,749,999 others, including SwindonLink, Swindon Cultural Partnership, and the Swindon Festival of Literature.

Swindon Council’s Arts & Cul-

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Send your answer with your name, address and telephone number to The Link, 71 Basepoint, Swindon SN5 7EX or mail: editor@swindonlink.com

Line Dance with

Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon

Make sure you mark your entry Cry figures, and there are several thriv- or Wizard to indicate your choice For more details ing writing groups. Construction of of performance. The closing date Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 the new Central Library is well un- is Friday 13 July.

Ten years of teaching! der way; • an active Philosophical Society, established in 1963; • an award winning film society that shows films from around the world and a yearly film festival; • Lower Shaw Farm, home of the Swindon Festival of Literature and For colours, cuts or the latest re-style many other events.

Specialists in creating the perfect All this, and we have not even mentioned the great music scene, wedding or prom put up or the abundance of dance.

Free gift while stocks last At one of the panel discussions, a long-time resident enthusiastiCall now to book an appointment cally claimed that there was actuwith Jenna, Trina or Haley ally more to do in Swindon than he in our newly refurbished salon had time for. Why not take a look with a newcomer’s eyes and you’ll Tel: 490947 be surprised to see what Swindon 13 Rodbourne Road, Swindon has to offer.

15/6/07, 10:41 am

Old Town for festival fun

30

Fantastic finale takes place on 30 June and 1 July

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The Old Town Festival is bigger and better this year with events spread over two weeks and two weekends.

On Saturday 30 June street entertainers will surprise and delight from 10.30am to 11.45am. Look out for Robbo the Clown and Jet Set Jackie, Jinks & Jingles, Professor Crump and TV puppets Bodger & Badger.

At midday popular HTV presenter Wesley Smith and the Mayor of Swindon will officially launch the weekend of fun before sending a spectacular procession of people dressed up in all manner of cos-

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21 July 07

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tumes on its way at 12.15pm, from Wood Street, along Devizes Road, Newport Street and High Street to The Lawn, led by the lively sounds of the Bath Samba Sulis Band.

There’s a £100 prize for the best parade entry.

The street entertainers continue in Wood Street until 2pm.

On The Lawn will be arena events including demonstrations, dance, gymnastics, fencing, majorettes and displays. Around the showground will be a funfair, re-enactment scenes, stalls of all kinds and a dog show.

On Sunday 2 July the festival moves to Town Gardens with stalls, displays and demonstrations amongst the flower beds and under the trees.

15/6/07, 10:51 am

In the Bowl dance schools, arts groups, local musicians and bands will be performing. A concert by Swindon’s Pegassus Brass with special guest Lynne Hawkins takes place at 5.15pm.

Everything you need to know about the festival and the history of Old Town is in the programme, available from the festival shop in Wood Street.

Or call 07751 461684.

If you don’t know the area, or have not visited for some time, the festival is a great reason to discover the original Swindon which is renewing and changing all the time - and having a lot of fun.

It’s really worth discovering the interesting range of shops which make the area so different to the rest of Swindon. www.oldtownfestival .co.uk

and shopping in July

31

From town centre

LADE

BLAYLOCKS SWINDON'S FAMILY SHOE SHOP

ST.

Quarry Road

P P

DEV IZES

ROA D

Quarry Road Recreation Ground

GODWIN COURT

Est. 1920 ST. HIGH

P

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FT R OA

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D

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Old Town Gardens

Festival procession route

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P

P

OAD RIA R VICTO

From the West

Place

t Road

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Go medieval on 29 June A seven course gastro-get together consumed in costumes of yore, served by wenches and pages, with entertainment from The Wolf Pack, in the marquee on the Lawn, 7pm for 8pm. Tickets £16 in advance only from 07751 461684 or Carol Gibbon on 522955.

Loads of music in Old Town Swindon Jazz Festival Five free performances in The Kings in Wood Street and in the marquee on The Lawn on Saturday 30 June and Sunday 1 July, ending with Matt Wates Sextet in The Kings on Sunday, 8pm. Admission £10. See festival programme for performances and venues

In the groove at the gardens In the Old Town Gardens Bowl on 30 June, Nucleus Roots plays uplifting dub and roots music, the most authentic reggae this side of the Atlantic, preceded by legendary DJ Derrick (see ticket details on page 22).

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Cricklade’s great place for courses and coffee An open day on 10 June at Cricklade Leisure Centre celebrated the successful campaign by residents to save an important venue.

The Keep Leisure in Cricklade sters; with the added attraction for Action (KLIC) group successfully parents of a volunteer-run coffee fought a decision by North Wilt- shop overlooking the sports hall.

Since opening in April, the cafe shire District Council to close the centre, along with those in with its sunny roof top terrace has become a community hub, with Wootton Bassett and Calne.

Since securing funding of young parents and local residents £60,000 from North Wilts and an using it as a day time meeting place. additional £20,000 from Cricklade “It’s ideal if children are doing town council, the KLIC campaign- activities like trampoline or gymers are now managing the centre nastics; there’s a hugely friendly atmosphere here,” said volunteer, on behalf of the community.

Cricklade is only a 10 minute Brian Bayton, a retired engineer. drive from North Swindon; for Judy Ashby, Vicar of St some it’s easier to get to than Link Sampson’s Church, fits a weekly shift at the cafe into her busy schedor Oasis Leisure Centres.

The centre is popular with fami- ule. “I wanted to support the leilies looking for children’s activi- sure centre, and put my body ties. There are swimming lessons, where my mouth is. It’s important junior squash coaching, gymnas- to the community - for children, tics, toddler sessions, trampoline families and older people.” and athletics available for youngFor course details, call 750011.

Kick off at Link pitches Three new outdoor football pitches next to Link Centre are launched on 1 July.

Part of the £100,000 investment by Swindon Counci in upgrading facilities at the centre, the pitches can be booked by visiting the centre or online at: www.swindon.gov.uk/leisuresport/link/linkpitches.htm The new cafe inside the building - which has taken an astonishing 8 months to refurbish - is now open as well.

Schools get in the swim

Link Centre mascot Webster the Duck encouraged the children to do their best and GWRs Howard Taylor kept the programme running smoothly

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21 July 07

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Girls training for next season Purton Ladies and Girls’ FC are training for next season at Braydon Forest School’s playing fields on: • Mondays 6pm for under 10 and 12s • Wednesdays 7pm for under 14s followed by the ladies squad.

New players are welcome to join. Mail Sharon Townsend for details: satownsend@ntlworld.com

Summer sports in Toothill Toothill Junior Club has secured funding from Sport Relief to run a month of sports activities including archery, fencing and traditional games like football and rounders run by coaches from Active Swindon.

The dates: 26 July to 16 August - 10am to 12.30pm for 5 to 9 years olds; 1pm to 1.30pm for 10 to 15 years. The cost: 50p per session.

Parents and carers have to register for places with the club by 10 July.

Visit Toothill Farm on Bodiam Drive on Wednesday or Friday evenings at 7pm to book.

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Nearly 100 children from Tregoze, Westlea, Freshbrook, Windmill, Brookfield, Peatmoor, Shaw and Goddard Park Primary Schools, who use Link Centre for swimming lessons took part in a first ever interschool gala on 3 June.

Swimming development officer Helen Maine said, “the event went smoothly, considering it was the first time we had put on a gala. One or two children were overawed by the idea of taking part in a competition but they all had a go, and the parents were really supportive on a Sunday morning. We want to make the event a regular in our calendar.”

‘The Great Escape’ from summer boredom is on at Greendown Community School again.

Youngsters aged 9 to 13 years on a course run by English FA can enjoy two fun sports weeks qualified coaches. organised and run by qualified The dates: 30 July to 3 August PE staff and responsible leaders. or 6 to 10 August, from 9.30am Children can take part in a va- 3pm. Cost: £55 a week riety of sports including football, To book a place, call into netball, hockey, tennis, badmin- Greendown in Grange Park for a ton, volleyball, gymnastics, booking form or call 874224.

To discuss payment by instalrounders, cricket, athletics, dance and orienteering. ments, call PE teacher Christian Keen footballers can specialise Dobbs at Greendown School.

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Mother & Baby Yoga Relax and bond with your baby Thursday 2 - 3pm Friday 1.30 - 2.30pm Bobbies Dance Studio, 24 Hour Gym

Haydon Wick - Greenmeadow School classes now at St John’s Church Monday: 6.30pm & 8pm with Sharon 527332 and Thursday: 6pm & 7.30pm with Sian 726418 Tuesday: 10am & 6pm Toothill Community Centre.

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Salon continues club support

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Hairworks at Freshbrook Village Centre has sustained its backing for Ferndale Netball Club, the town’s oldest independent club, by helping it enter a third team into the Swindon and District League from September.

Training continues through the summer holidays and new players are welcome to join, whether they want to play competitive games or meet a friendly group and get fit.

Women and girls are wel- Hairworks owner Paul Edwards hands over his sponsorship come to join. to Joy Blake, left, and Ferndale players Hairworks gives twenty five per cent off to club For details call Joy Blake on members.

872237.

• The club is holding a women v men netball match on Monday 23 Monday, 7pm, in aid of Prospect Hospice at Greendown. Supporters are welcome.

Former Olympians to play tournament North Wilts Hockey Club will be training through the summer at Dorcan Leisure Club and are holding its annual six a side competition on 14 and 15 July.

The Great Britain veterans team captained by former England and Great Britain goalkeeper Simon Mason plus a team of former internationals who have played at the Commonwealth and Olympics will be attending the event.

New adult and junior members are welcome at training and to view the tournament. For details contact Steve Pratt on 855515 or 07775 897200 or mail: steve@itsy.freeserve.co.uk

North Swindon to Paris by bike Simon Greenwood and fiance EmmaDee Hamilton from Redhouse have been training hard for several months to ride the 400 kilometres from London to Paris between 8 and 12 July in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support.

They have pledged to raise at least £2,400 and are keen for readers to help them with donations.

These can be made at: www.justgiving.com/simongreenwood www.justgiving.com/emma-dee Right, collaged together in tandem, Simon and Emma-Dee

Charity cycle rides coming up If Simon and Emma-Dee have inspired the thought to bike for charity over a shorter distance - here are three events in need of participants: Friday 29 June to Sunday 1 July NSPCC big bike races in and around Coate Water for all ages and abilities. Call 740331 for entry form.

Saturday 22 September, 11am The Cancer Research UK/Active Swindon bike rides for life, starting and finishing at Lydiard Park. Two rides: 20k (for 12 years and over - on quiet roads); 5k ride within the park for under 11s.

Details will be available in July from Swindon leisure centres. Register beforehand with James Claire, mail: claire.james@swindon-pct.nhs.uk Sunday 30 September Marie Curie Cancer Care ride along the Bristol & Bath Railway Cycle Path. Details from Clair Cusack on 0117 924 7275 or mail: clair.cusack@mariecurie.org.uk

21 July 07 copy

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36

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

Pupils pedal to prepare plan for Isambard Pupils from Bridlewood Primary have been test riding cycle routes through North Swindon to help the governors of Isambard Community School to get a handle on what to expect in September.

Every school has to draw up a travel plan, even if they have no pupils, explained governor, John Remington.

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Isambard is keen to assessed. By 2011 Swinpromote cycling as condon Council wants 90 per gestion is already bad cent of secondary pupils at the Learning Camto get to school by bike, pus, caused by parents foot or the bus. driving to Red Oaks Mr Remington has Primary. also written to ThamesAfter a meeting with down Transport sugSustrans, the governors gesting the bus services hope to be included in to Isambard should be their Bike It project. made more frequent to Mr Remington said, give pupils and adults “we’re trying to move employed on the camaway from parents pus a quicker and easier bringing their children trip to school. by car. It’s very easy to • Walking to Bridlewood plot where they live; Llewys Kenyon and Niambi Ross holding up The Link’s North and Lady Lane closure most are within a mile Swindon map outside Isambard with other Year 6 Bridlewood - see page 36. bikers, John Remington, rear left, and adult guides of Isambard.”

But as many of the roads across North Swindon have not yet been adopted and not all sign posts are in place, the governors feel it important to find the safest and clear- A North Swindon electrical and mechanical engineer has designed a est routes to recommend to pupils. kit to add battery power to a push bike in as little as half an hour, and The Link is working with the is looking for an interested entrepreneur to get it to market. governors by adapting the North Brian Little hopes the design will Swindon map with suggested appeal to people looking for a routes marked. cheap and easy way to get to work.

Isambard’s first pupils are beHe said, “I haven’t built it for speed ing asked how they expect to travel or acceleration, but it’s got better to school at forthcoming open evehill climbing and range than other nings so that travel targets can be electric bikes available.”

Once installed, speed is varied by turning a throttle on the handlebars, up to a maximum of 15mph. In fact, it could easily do 30mph but has been geared down to comply with the speed limit. totype and a third is in the pipeBrian has found that on other line, with a specially engineered electric bikes the drive mechanism driving mechanism. “I’m a firm comes into contact with the bike’s believer that the essence of design wheels, resulting in wear and slip- is simplicity,” he said. page when wet. His design uses a With the current interest in sussprocket and chain for strength and tainable transport, Brian believes safety. that the time is right to develop the Brian’s understanding wife product and would like to hear agreed that he could work on the from marketing experts, whether first prototype in the kitchen dur- engineers or not, who can take it ing the icy winter months. He has forward. He can be contacted via since built a simplified second pro- The Link on 608840.

Time to push electric bike into production

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21 July 07

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15/6/07, 12:34 pm

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

Where should dogs roam?

Love them or hate them, have your say about where dogs should be allowed.

Swindon Council joy the parks in is asking people peace. where they think “People have inidogs should be kept tially been upset at on leads and which dogs having to be on areas should be ena lead all the time, tirely dog free. but that won’t be the They are proposcase. We’re opening ing that dogs should up Queen’s Park be on their lead in which is currently a Queens Park, Penhill ‘no dogs’ area.The Park, Town Gardens ban in Lydiard Park and the busiest areas of Lydiard is proposed from 10am to 6pm but Park. They would also have to be there will be some areas where on a leash next to roads, on cycle dogs can run free at any time. paths and in the town centre.

“I can absolutely assure you that The changes are due to new leg- what you say can make a differislation which came into effect in ence,” said Alison. “We will take 2006. Dog Control Orders consoli- all views on board.” date many of the old byelaws alShe believes the new orders will lowing them to be easily enforced. be an improvement on existing Dog walkers could face fixed byelaws which are largely unenpenalty fines of £80 if they don’t forced. comply. The consultation is on Details and a date for the new three orders covering fouling and laws to take effect should be anclearing up after your pet, areas nounced in late summer. where dogs should not be allowed Viewpoints are needed by 6 July. and those where they should be Copies of the consultation form on a lead. are available at Swindon Council Swindon Council dog warden leisure and information centres, Alison Waine said that her de- the Lydiard Park visitor centre. Or partment has tried to think about call 463000 and ask for the dog what is sensible: giving dogs space wardens. to run and people the right to enwww.swindon.gov.uk

Paradise Pets Ltd “Just 10 minutes from Walmart and West Swindon” re’s Wiltshi cialist spe largest store. pet soon Visit us

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

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

Carole’s

PET SITTING SERVICE 14 Waterdown Close Taw Hill, Swindon

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

❈ Holiday boarding for rabbits and guinea pigs

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

Telephone: 01793 881572 Mobile: 07984 564493

Grooming salons are not just for poodles!

Whatever shape, size or hair length, all dogs deserve a visit to Hair of the Dog Collection/delivery available, or drop your dog off in the morning and pick up in the evening 74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

Call Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633

Compassion - for you and your pet Communication - we listen Continuity - of care throughout your pet’s life Cost - good value, great offers Convenience - a clinic near you Car parking - plenty!

Thameswood Veterinary Clinic 62 - 64 Purton Road Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way) Tel: 01793 526780

❈ Food & accessories for all your pets Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

• • • • • • • •

“Making life better for you and Care - always your pet”

❈ Cage and aviary birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, reptiles ❈ Plenty of free parking

Open:

Monday to Friday, 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 9am - 11am

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri: 9am-5pm; Sat: 10am-5pm Sun & Bank Holidays 10.30am-4pm

Tel: 01793 512400 www.paradisepetsswindon.co.uk

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10% discount on all Frontline Flea products Offer ends 31/7/07

24 Hour Emergency Service. Tel: 01793 526780 www.thameswoodvets.co.uk

15/6/07, 2:34 pm

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Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

MOBILE CAR & VAN SERVICING AND REPAIRS With over ten years experience in the motor trade we provide a personal service, built on a solid reputation for honesty, reliability and trustworthiness.

Mobility means we can meet all your vehicle needs at a time and place convenient to you.

For a free no VAT quote that will amaze you, call: SLATER’S MOBILE SERVICES

07999 944262

Approved Driving Instructor

Bridlewood gives cars the boot Now that Lady Lane has closed to traffic parents and children are leaving the car at home and discovering the healthy way to Bridlewood Primary School.

The car park at Blunsdon Arms Chair of governors Jayne Kean Lady Lane closure close to the school has became a said that many parents had comobjection Park and Stride following Walk to mented on a questionnaire that People living on Chartwell Road School Week in May. they were more likely to walk after in Redhouse, outside Bridlewood, The campaign promotes the the closure of Lady Lane have objected to the closure of Lady benefits of walking regularly. ConLane, which was cerns over traffic and stranger danagreed with Ash Brake ger mean that fewer children play residents in 2002. outside in their free time. The jourThe closure will be ney to school can be used as a way reviewed in a year, but for them to develop life skills and the residents have experience so that they feel more raised a petition callcomfortable and safe outside on ing on Swindon Countheir own. cil to reverse the decision because they believe the increased trafCall Liz on 01793 486112 fic on Eastbury Way ★ Theory Test Tuition and Chartwell Road ★ Training Pack Available from parents driving to and from Bridlewood ★ Block Booking Discount School will increase the ★ Refresher Courses dangers to pedestrians Ask about free lessons Using the foot routes to Bridlewood, Henry and Sam in their neighbourhood.

Norridge, Max Bradbury, Llewys Kenyon

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & 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

Blondes drive a banger for cancer Two blondes from North Swindon are planning to drive a car worth less than £100 across Europe and raise £25,000 for charity and are asking readers to back their banger rally bid.

In September Tami Brown of Abbey Meads and Diana Sheperd-son from Greenmeadow will be driving from Staples Corner, North London to Naples, taking them through five countries and over the Swiss and French Alps.

The girls are hoping that their 1995 Nissan Sunny will last the course and help them raise money for Cancer Research UK and the Chemotherapy Ward at GWH. Tami and Diana with Swindon’s famous Tami was diagnosed with busty blonde Diana Dors colon cancer aged just 21 and is now in remission. The The team is seeking a corporate fundraising challenge is her way sponsor and donations. of thanking all those who helped See more photos of Tami and Diana in her recovery. at www.swindonlink.com

www.chipsaway-sven.co.uk

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO

INDEPENDENT

BMW & MERCEDES SPECIALISTS • Fixed Price Service & Inspection • Full Diagnostic Service • Full Air Conditioning Service • All work carried out by skilled technicians • Free Collection & Delivery Service • MOTs

✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

PC AUTOCARE

01793 772542 Unit 1 Bagbury Park, Lydiard Millicent

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✶ All cars welcome cam belt replacement engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds electrical fault code reading Air-Con MOT repairs service £58.75 vehicle sales inc. VAT servicing to light commercials

Open 8.30am 5.30pm

Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards.

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

15/6/07, 11:08 am

39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Ivel)

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds Carpets ✫ Vinyls ✫ Rugs Entrance Matting ✫ Flotex Stair Runners ✫ Underlays Accessories ✫ Rug Edging Service Unit 20 Enterprise House, Cheney Manor Indus Estate, Swindon

QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free

Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home

Tel: 01793 542333 Mobile: 07778 976752 Open: Mon-Fri: 9am - 3pm. Sat: 9am - 1pm

Contact Paul on 01793 619428

www.rug-shack.co.uk

FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

BRUNEL ROOFING All aspects of roofing undertaken by quality Craftsmen • Tiling & Slating • Fascias & Guttering • Chimney repairs • Lead work • New builds, Extensions & Repairs Call us for a free written quote (01793) 554 935 077 25 804 738 077 85 988 557 www.brunel-roofing.co.uk

ANTONY’S ELECTRICAL SERVICES COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC COMPLETE REWIRES

EXTRA POINTS FAULT FINDING FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT EXTRA EXTERIOR & INTERIOR LIGHTING

RELIABLE FAST SERVICE COMPETITIVE RATES FREE ESTIMATES

01793 728668 07748 962689

Many ranges of lighting available: ❖ Traditional / Bespoke / Modern ❖ Bathroom / Kitchen / Garden / Outdoor ❖ Spot / Down lighters etc ❖ Lighting schemes for commercial & domestic locations available

Email: sales@dandtlighting.co.uk www.dandtlighting.co.uk

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

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

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

KEMBREY STREET

Gorse Hill AT GRE ERN T WES AY W

NE

Y LA

GIPS WA Y

Unit 14, Birch, Kembrey Park Swindon Tel: 01793 523433

D&T Lighting

KEMBREY PARK

ER

10% Discount with this advert

LIGHTING BUG

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CI R E N

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ST

Hand built bedrooms of distinction

PETER GALBRAITH EST 1986

• Individual custom made fitted bedroom and home study furniture • Traditional and modern design • Wide variety of finishes available • Free estimates and expert advice

Call 01793 526335 www.petergalbraith.co.uk

THE COMPLETE CURTAIN SERVICE CURTAINS TO SATISFY EVERY REQUIREMENT • Free estimating, design and advice • Home visits by appointment • Make-up and fitting service

AND BLINDS OF ALL KINDS • Wooden • Venetian • New linen • Roman • Verticals • Roller • New Eastern materials

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

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

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

14/6/07, 6:19 pm

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Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

Muck in and spread the composting message Do you know about the dark art of turning garden waste into black gold and want to teach others?

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has appointed a waste prevention officer to After the training, they can do as much or as little as they’d like. We’ll help teach the forgotten skills of composting and she is recruiting support them all the way. If they’re doing it right and other people see volunteers to act as compost ambassadors through one day training that they’re producing lovely compost, they’ll be more inclined to give courses to teach beginners the basics and bring the more experienced it a try. up to date with new technologies.

“Quite often people give up because their compost has turned smelly Ambassadors can organise an event like the recent Monster Mulch at as they haven’t put the right mixture into the bin. There’s a surprising Purton. Others may prefer to give advice to friends and neighbours. variety of materials that you can put into compost, and once you know WWT compost officer Kate Robinson said, “we’ll give the ambassa- it changes the way you shop.” dors expertise in composting and this is their only real commitment.

Low cost compost binss are available from Enterprise Works, Gypsy Lane: £10 for 330 litre bins or £25 for a water butt and bin.

Details from 0845 077 0757. www.recyclenow.com/compost Action for Blind People is marking its 150th anniversary with help from Lloyds TSB by selling pin badges to raise funds for their work.

Swindon Actionnaires, Action ment Officer for Swindon for Blind People’s local sports club Actionnaires, said, “we are hop- Children from Haydon Centre Pre-School were guests of honour at for blind and partially sighted chil- ing to raise £50,000 to give more the opening of a play area by the bowling green. dren, is keen for readers to visit blind and partially sighted chilThe youngsters had drawn picbranches of the bank to buy the dren the opportunity to enjoy tures of themselves playing and metal ‘All Grown Up’ badges sport. Please buy a badge and parish councillors picked three which feature characters from spread the word about winners who received prizes on Rugrats, the Nickelodeon cartoon Actionnaires.” the opening day. The toddler play featuring Tommy, Chuckie, Susie For details of Actionnaires call equipment includes a slide, and Angelica.

Rebecca on 01722 345440. roundabout, swings and springy Rebecca Frost, Sports Develop- www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk animal and replaces the old playground which had seen better days.

The parish council secured a grant of £10,000 from Hills Waste ❐ Block Paving ❐ Landscaping ❐ Fencing Solutions through the Landfill Tax ❐ Decorative Stone ❐ General Maintenance Credit Scheme. This allows landfill site operators to divert some of the For a professional and affordable service, money they would pay in landfill Enjoying the new equipment, Abigail free consultation and written quotation Geening, Callum Jefferies, Jake Hobbs tax to community projects.

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898 As part of the ongoing renewal the area, another toddler area on the programme for play equipment in King George V site is now in use.

Badged up for the blind

Bowled over by new playground

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS LTD

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Bees are not just for honey Your complete TIMBER DECKING Specialist

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6 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Ind Est Swindon SN2 2YW

01793 488899

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Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm

Bees are incredibly important for the environment, those busy, buzzy insects that just get on with what they do, whilst humans get all stressed if one gets too close.

Without their ability to spread pollen between plants, a major ecological crisis would ensue. The nation’s bee population is already under threat from varroa, a serious Asian parasitic mite, and there are recent reports of bee colonies swarming and just disappearing for no apparent reason.

The Swindon Branch of the Wiltshire Beekeepers Association brings together beekeepers and also helps newcomers learn the skills of looking after bees.

Keeping a few bees used to be a simple affair in the past, but it now requires a scientific approach says Kieron and Cloe Ferry from Grange Park Ross Gregory of the Beekeepers finding out about honey and bees with Association. “If people are think- beekeepers Sue Moris, Shirley Stone and ing of going into beekeeping, they Ross Gregory can come along and get hands-on queen bee in the hive.

The gardens are open to the pubexperience with us.”

The association has a base at lic every Wednesday and Friday TWIGS therapeutic garden, next from 10am to 3.30pm and plants to Manor Garden Centre at Cheney and crafts are on sale.

For details of the association call Manor. Their display always attracts a swarm of visitors and Ross Gregory on 762355. youngsters are always fascinated www.wiltshirebeekeepers.org.uk/ trying to catch a glimpse of the swindon

14/6/07, 6:19 pm

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

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

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LANDSERVE

KUDOS FENCING

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

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Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting & Pruning

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Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation

on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

All types of fencing installed Full patio/decking service Made to measure gates All pressure treated timbers Help/advice on all fencing & landscape matters

Free estimates on 01793 855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon www.handymanathome.co.uk

A W GARDEN SERVICES Every client & every garden is different.

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

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

General garden maintenance & landscaping also undertaken.

Fully public liability insurance.

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

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

Highworth Landscapes

David Hawkins

Tree Surgeon

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

Chelworth Landscapes

All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates 14 years experience

01793 611861 07967 594707

LYDIARD LANDSCAPES

Fencing & Garden Maintenance

LTD

Est. 1987

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

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

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

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029

Patios, Block Paving, Walling, Fencing, Close Board, Gates, Decking, Tree Work, Turfing, Building and Property Developing.

Portfolio and Client Testimonials Available

Office/Fax: 01793 827117 Mobile: 07790 922081 Free estimates

www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk

www.acerpaving.co.uk

Fully insured Director: Nicholas Garner

Blackford Timber Supplies ALL FENCING & ROOFING PRODUCTS • CHAIN LINK

• POSTS & RAILS

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HOW TO FIND US

GREENHILL FROM WOOTTON BASSETT

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FROM PURTON

GREENHILL, GREATFIELD, WOOTTON BASSETT, SWINDON Weekdays 7am - 4.30pm Saturday 7am - 11.30am Local delivery contact Laurie on 01793 778070 or 07887 907904 www.acerpaving.co.uk

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14/6/07, 6:21 pm

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Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

KUDOS FENCING SUPPLIES LTD. B4696

Kudos

Family business since 1983

To Purton

For a Quality Installation

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From M4 J16 & To Brinkworth West Swindon Wootton Bassett

....

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SWINDON FASCIA

fencing ● Gates ● Chain link

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Tel: 01793 855800

For free & friendly advice on our full range of Gutter/Fascia systems professionally installed and guaranteed, call

Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Enterprises Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

● Cement ● Trade

& DIY welcome

• Office Cleaning daily, nightly & weekly • Household Cleaning • Specialist Carpet Cleaning

Swindon 855700 / 855800

Contact us for a FREE Quotation 1st Clean only £10 + travel fee

Tel/fax: 01285 657210 • Business Window Cleaning Swindon & Cirencester’s cleaning company Mobile: 07811 842795 • National Contracts

www.jpncleaning.co.uk

t t 5% oun dver sc a di this th wi

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FREE DELIVERY COMPETITIVE PRICES OPEN 7 DAYS

Charity pole paint A group of youngsters from West Swindon spent a day during half term painting jump poles in aid of Cancer Research and MacMillan Cancer Care at the Malt House Equestrian Centre, near Wootton Bassett.

Keen rider Elysia New from Westlea said she knew exactly what she wanted to do for Ridgeway School’s annual charity challenge. “I asked Rosemary Greenway who owns the centre if we could do a sponsored project and she suggested we paint the jump poles. We managed 16 altogether; I think we’ve raised about £250.”

Elysia was joined by classmates from Ridgeway as well as brother Harry and Yazmin good fun doing the painting at the stable, and we also had the chance Leat from Westlea Primary.

Lauren Tyler said she had never to groom the ponies and had a ride been near a horse. “It was really around the field.

BUILDING MATERIALS

Comfort and contact with seniors

Block paving • Driveways • Paths • Patios Rockeries • Decking • Fencing • Pergolas Shingles • Cobbles • Turf

Contact the Elderly gives a lifeline to older people who have little or no contact with friends or family, by organising monthly outings.

A second group of 8 to10 members is being started in the Swindon area, but volunteer drivers who can give one Sunday afternoon a month and also hosts who would be prepared to give a tea one or more times a year.

For details or to offer help call Eileen Norris on 826618.

Side of Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Est, Swindon. Tel: 484455

21 July 07

Businesses to boost three charities The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, Swindon Samaritans and the Broad Green Breakfast Club will all benefit from fundraising events in July organised by Swindon Cares, which aims to encourage employees across the town to organise in-house events and also activities which the public can join in with.

Participants are needed for: • Wednesday 11 July. 6-aside football tournament at Supermarine Football Club.

To enter call Nick Arkell on 823026 or mail: nick@ arkells.com • Thursday 12 July. Intercompany competition at Marlborough Golf Club.

Details from Darren Edwards on 501930 or mail: dedwards@newswilts .co.uk • Saturday 14 July. The Lord Lieutenant’s Charity Concert at Christ Church, Old Town.

Details from Nicky Morri- Volunteers and users from the Swindon Therapy Centre, at the carers launch in June, from left, son on 07785 227684.

The organisers are keen Sandra Herbert, Jude Leeson, David Hughes, for individuals and groups Fern Andrews to come up with more The Broad Green Breakfast Club, fundraising projects. Ideas and provides a healthy breakfast on six advice can be found at: mornings a week at St Lukes www.swindoncares.co.uk Church Hall in the town centre, as well as advice and help on housThe charities supported: ing, health, employment and benSwindon & District Samaritans is efits. celebrating its 40th anniversary Swindon Therapy Centre for Multhis year. A team of 100 trained, tiple Sclerosis is funded entirely listening volunteers offer emoby donations and provides therational support over the telephone, pies, support, advice and informain person or by e-mail: 24/7, 365 tion for people with MS, their famidays a year. lies and carers.

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15/6/07, 1:40 pm

GMS

J’s Electrical ✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES EST 1998

Specialist in bathroom and kitchen fitting Interior and exterior painting and decorating

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447

01793 434184 or 07872 946986

Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.uk

L J WILSON BRICKWORK Specialising in smaller works • • • • • • • • • • •

General property maintenance Conservatory bases Extensions/porches Garden walls/patios Interior & exterior decoration All types of render painted Tiling - walls & floors Kitchen & bathroom fitting Garage conversions Free no obligation quotes Insurance work undertaken

EXTENSIONS AND SMALL BUILDINGS by

plus patios, garden walls and stone walling Plastering & decorating No job too small

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Call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm

TileSure

In fact any odd job will be considered, no job too small, just ask.

For a friendly reliable service call Pete for a free quote on:

CERAMIC TILING Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting Fitted by tradesman QUALITY FINISH

Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

Tel: 01793 871879 Mobile: 07724734126 Full public liability insurance

QUALITY INSTALLATIONS

♦ Complete kitchen installation ♦ Supply and fit or installation only ♦ Fitted bedrooms and bathrooms ♦ Timber decking and patios ♦ UPVC fascias, guttering and cladding ♦ Flooring and tiling ♦ General property maintenance

Call Heyden Jones 01793 873936 07790 657740

21 July 07

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ABC BUILDERS

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

ODD JOB MAN Garden Maintenance Window Cleaning Painting and Decorating Flat Pack Construction General Repairs.

KTL

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419

• • • • •

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D & M ENTERPRISES For all your property & garden maintenance ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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No job too small

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J.M.R. Plumbing & Heating • Boiler servicing • Boiler replacement • Unvented cylinder servicing • Cylinder replacement • Landlord gas certification ... and all other gas work undertaken Call now for a quote from your local gas engineer ...

Call: 01793 700575 Mobile: 07920113999

TREVOR WYSE Painter & Decorator Also tiling, coving, dado rails.

Wallpaper specialist All work approved & guaranteed

For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203 or 01793 723023 ‘my experience your pleasure’

A BUTLER PROPERTY SERVICES & DECORATING SPECIALISTS Tel: 01793 320380 Mobile: 07764 743635 Painting & decorating Kitchens • Bathrooms • Tiling Fencing • Patios Driveways • Drainage PVC windows, soffits & fascias Door hanging • Window repairs Roof repairs • Lock repairs General alterations & maintenance

LOFT CONVERSION SPECIALISTS Dormer , Velux , Hip to Gable From concept to completion FREE Advice - FREE Quotes Prompt Friendly Service

Tel: 01793 635000

15/6/07, 11:09 am

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LEE ORTON PLUMBING & HEATING

HEATING Ltd Boiler and central heating installation and changeovers Bathroom and shower installations and refurbishments All other plumbing work undertaken

Phone Steve on 01793 772702 Mobile: 07770 555030

176726

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

Full public liability insurance Free quotes Call Adam on 345345 or 07968 360207

Bathrooms

Ideas to reality ♦ Plumbing inc. pumped showers, towel warmers ♦ Electrics ♦ Wall & floor tiling ♦ Carpentry ♦ Laminate & wood flooring ♦ Appliance installation ♦ Also other home improvements No job too small

Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 887766 Mobile: 07979 267757

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

Then call

TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss

Free quotatio ns

FENSA

22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett

The Fitting Crew

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

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

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

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

NO MORE PAINTING, MAINTENANCE FREE, DEAL DIRECT To arrange your FREE survey, call Richard on 01793 725155 or mobile: 07760 143221

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

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

House Medic

HM. BATHROOM

Building, Maintenance & Repairs

INSTALLATIONS

UPVC, Facia, Cladding, Soffits, Guttering

44

A local reliable & friendly service

Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596

21 July 07

& Kitchens

Complete installations to dripping taps

Registered Company

We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey

Tel:01793 528243 07709 815316

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Brunel Electrical From an extra socket to a re-wire we can provide a complete high quality cost effective service to our small business and domestic customers • Test, inspection and certification • Showers • Fault finding • Heating • Garden, garage, workshop, loft • Part P compliant • Local company • Extensions • Fully insured • Free quotes • No call out charge www.brunel-electrical.co.uk Telephone: 01793 554935 07785 988557 07725 804738

All aspects of plastering, rendering and dry lining undertaken Clean, tidy & reliable

Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring No job too small • Free estimates

Walling and flooring specialist Kitchens bathrooms and conservatories

PLASTERING

Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking, landscape gardening

Mobile: 07887 541444

TILING

CHRIS ANGELL

GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Tel: 01793 722152

ARC PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

MILESTONE

Building Services

• • • • • • • •

Electric showers Power showers Replacement taps Exchange suites En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails Shower Trays And Cubicles Complete Bathroom Makeovers Insurance Work Undertaken

• • • • •

BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS INTERNAL ALTERATIONS REFURBISHMENTS MAINTENANCE WORK INSURANCE WORK

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

15/6/07, 11:12 am

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HOME HANDYMAN

S & L Tiling Bathrooms & Kitchens Walls Floors All aspects of tiling undertaken Free no obligation quotes

Call Sean on 01793 877772 or 07903 718723

• New in Swindon • Ceramic wall tiling specialist • Top grade materials used for a superior finish every time • Reasonable rates - no job too small • Finishing touches - small decorating jobs for your complete new look • ALL AREAS COVERED

For more information please call Mandy on:

01793 324654 (Mob) 07974 151776

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

01793 422973 07834 708627

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

Plastering & Property Maintenance Skimming, Rendering Drylining, Coving Also Fencing, Decking & Patios Tel: 01793 320190 07766 026942

mail: info@benchmark-construction.co.uk

Leaking taps • Washing machine/ dishwasher waste pipes • Tiling Laminate floors • Electrical fittings Locks • Door hanging • Skirtings Architraves • Shelving • Curtain rails Flat pack furniture assembly & repair Wired and wireless network installation Computer repair, set up and installation And much much more All work guaranteed and insured Free, no obligation quotes & estimates

01793 876798

www.benchmark-construction.co.uk

Lydiard Home Services www.lydiard.biz info@lydiard.biz

COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING SERVICES

AMI

❖ Gas, LPG and Oil ❖ Boiler servicing & breakdowns ❖ Boiler exchange ❖ Full system installation ❖ Landlord safety checks ❖ Power flush ❖ Plumbing ❖ Emergency call outs

2 yd: £55 4 yd: £90 2.5 yd: £65 5 yd: £100 3 yd: £80 All inclusive 5 days given to fill skip

Reliable friendly service Competitive rates Tel. 01793 887419 Mob. 07912 882090 countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk

SKIPS Freephone 0800 - 387613

Tel: 731610 8am - 6pm

PLUMBING & HEATING

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

Extensions • Conservatories Garage conversions Alterations / Renovations Block paving, Patio’s • Porches Garden walls Fascia’s and Guttering ‘Metro Lightweight Roofing’ systems No job too big or small!

Over 15 years experience.

Call Neil Tanner for a free & fair no-obligation quote on 07967 155502

for all those little jobs around the home

Professional & Reliable

QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC. Local, reliable & competitive

HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241

• 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 • Free quotations

Call Craig Gavin 01793 886881 or 07880 735405

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

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

For a FREE quote with no obligation Telephone: 01793 703233 Mobile: 07760 193890 No job too small - All work fully insured

G.P. Building Specialist Ltd Established for 21 years

Specialist in loft conversions & building extension

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

All types of maintenance and general building work Telephone: Mobile:

21 July 07

45

From this to this in under 8 weeks

We have 20 years experience & provide a fast, friendly & reliable service from design to completion

01793 435876 0782 444 2143 0777 574 8682

References can be provided & viewings arranged

For a free no obligation quotation, call: 01793 700454

14/6/07, 6:23 pm

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BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

RS

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Tiling Walls & Floors Bathroom and kitchen installations

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

01793 876600 07748 964433

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

DECORATOR

tor

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

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

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

HOME MAINTENANCE

PR

ID EP

ain ter

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

DECORATOR

&D eco ra

FREE ESTIMATES

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR

Brushrite Ltd.

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

Arc Electrical Services Ltd 01793 872054 0770 480 1959

James O’Sullivan Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing & Plastering Established 22 years

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

FLOORING FLOORING SERVICES MASTERFITTER

N I CF National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed 17 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 640012 07970 865883

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

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

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

ALL KITCHENS FITTED (Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture 30 years experienced tradesman

46

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

Plumbing & Heating Services

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

Steve George

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

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

P.J.J.

arcelectrics@aol.com • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

HEATING & PLUMBING

G R SERVICES

302 July Repair & Impr

CARPENTRY

APPROVED

15/6/07, 1:18 pm

30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

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

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

MAINTENANCE

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

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

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CARPENTRY

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

to a ‘T’ J S Property Services Done T.T. Decorating Services

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

Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DECORATOR

Free estimates Jamie Scanlon 01793 704309 or 0777 594 8833

DOUBLE GLAZING

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

The Professional The Perfectionist

Colour Design Painting Decorating Exterior Plastering as well as Coving Interior Mastic & Sealant References from customers on request

Call Tass

Free Quotations

Mob: 07737 317853 Home: 01793 706980

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Quality workmanship Fascias, soffits, windows, doors and rendering Also interior decorating 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE FREE ESTIMATES Call Paul Comer on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

PAINTING AND DECORATING

EXTERIOR PAINTING

Lewis & Leo Electrical Ltd

Independent decorator specialising in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating ✓ Age Concern registered decorator ✓ Domestic and small commercial ✓ Insurance work undertaken ✓ Full Public Liability insurance ✓ Free no obligation quotation ✓ References available

Supplied. Installed. Repaired Free estimates, free advice No Salesmen Your local choice

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

01793 611398 07968 757860

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

Quality Plumbing & Heating

M.P.S.

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

GAS ASSOCIATED SERVICES

• Central heating installation • • • • •

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

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Windows, Doors, Conservatories

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

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

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

Brian Jones Plastering Services

Select Plumbing Services

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

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

• No job is too small.

• No callout charge.

• Free estimates.

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

302 July Repair & Impr

Repairs, maintenance or new installation at a competitive price

47

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

✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE: 07769 883717 TEL: 01793 876029

also commercial & industrial, inspection & testing

For free no obligation quotes call Wayne or Paul Tel: 01793 526955 Mob: 07928 723890 or 07738 177506 lewisandleoelectrical@hotmail.co.uk

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

For all electrical work in the home, garage & garden - rewires, extensions etc.

Reg: 203455

ROOFING

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

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

TILING

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

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

15/6/07, 1:22 pm

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

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ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES Aerial & Satellite Services

Chartered Certified Accountants

Small Business Specialists Tel: 01793 610008 email: enquiries@dykebrading.co.uk

• TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points • Freeview installation • Signal amplifiers in Noticed terferen No call out lately? T ce e filters fi tra charge tted All work guaranteed Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379 or 07774 943 783

www.dykebrading.co.uk

BOOK-KEEPING PH Bookkeeping The Ideal Balance Need time to concentrate on what you do best?

Can’t face doing the bookkeeping that goes with it?

Then for all your bookkeeping needs call Pat Huby MAAT

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

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

AERIAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRAVEL

CHRIS PAYNE

AIRPORTS Connect Ltd

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

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

CAKES

CARPET CLEANING

CAKES BAKED 4U Had trouble finding that special cake?

Let me create the wedding cake of your dreams Ring Sylvia on 01793 771552 Last minute orders accepted

07799 690447

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

www.cakesbaked4u.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT

GARDEN CLEARANCE

GARAGE DOORS

✻ ✻ ✻ ✻ ✻

The Automatic Choice

GARDEN & HOUSEHOLD CLEARANCE

Why go anywhere else?

When we’ll come to you.....

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

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN See our displays at

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE

Let us load and remove your rubbish for you

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL

01793 513796

Also odd jobs

email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

Free estimates

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Call Danny on 01793 702407 or 07957 820064

PAVING CLEANING

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

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements

EASIER THAN A SKIP, WHY DO IT YOURSELF?

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

Premier Klean ‘Set the course in cleaning’

Premier Klean has invested in the best cleaning systems possible; our powerful machines give an excellent clean whilst using no harmful chemicals.

We offer a comprehensive service.

Call now for a free no obligation quotation.

phbookkeeping@hotmail.co.uk

CLEAR AWAY

Tel: 431111

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0777 6236415

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Com Master’s PC Repairs

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

10% discount with this advert

SECURITY SYSTEMS

OVEN CLEANING

PAVE C EC EA R CL LE Driveway, Paving & Patio Cleaning The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

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

Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

Removes Weeds, Moss, Dirt and Restores Surfaces to Look as Good as New FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE CALL:

01793 701741 www.paveclear.co.uk

302 July Service Sector

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15/6/07, 1:07 pm

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AIRPORT TRAVEL

JJ Limousines Available for 1 to 8 passengers Airport or ferry runs Also weddings, proms, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate & business trips

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

GUARANTEED REPAIRS...

REMIER Pelectrics

Same day, local service wherever possible

Establishe 30 year

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

BOOK-KEEPING “Let me organise your books so you can concentrate on your business”

For a competitive quote contact:

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

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

JJ Limousines Telephone: 07809 777 170

WASHCAR E

Same day/next day service

E-mail: info@jj-limousines.com

01793 - 643785

Tel: 01793 469300

For a friendly reliable service, call Debbie, Shaw Booking-Keeping on 01793 874480 or 07765 403592

CLEANING

CLEANING

CARPET CLEANING The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

MINI BUS HIRE

CLEANING

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

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

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

REMOVALS

White Van Man AIRPORT SERVICE From Swindon to...

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

Tel: 01793 703899

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

Free home estimates No call out charge TV & video tuning All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793 - 812738

302 July Service Sector

VHS TO DVD Transfer VHS to DVD and all taped media

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £20 Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed House clearance Long/short distance removals Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

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• Save those irreplaceable memories • Wedding videos • Irreplaceable TV programmes • Large family collections • Children’s first steps. Birthday parties • 8mm reel film a speciality • Obsolete formats, i.e. Betamax, Video2000; camcorder tapes

Holder of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

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

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

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

£1 off all orders over £3 with this voucher

SAVE THOSE MEMORIES Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co .uk DON’T DELAY SAVE THOSE MEMORIES TODAY

West Swindon District Centre. Tel: 870 455

15/6/07, 1:09 pm

50

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

Youth Service has big ideas for the summer The BIG Event Swindon Council’s Youth Service will be showing off what its got at The Big Event on Saturday 7 July, 1pm to 5pm, at Link Centre.

Aimed at 13 to 19 year olds, a whole range of activities inside and outside the building will showcase what there is for young people in the town.

In the main hall there will be sports activities on a ‘sexual health Olympics’ theme, whilst outside the Boombox mobile disco and mixing rig and the Flux bus mobile media studio will show off digital media opportunities.

There will be live bands, Indian drummers and dancers and a Big Brother style diary chair to feedback what you think of the youth service.

“It’s a chance for everyone to come down and get involved,” said youth worker Huw Solly.

He added that the event offers the opportunity for adults interested in training to become volunteer or part-time youth workers and to meet Youth Service staff.

Go native After an 11th hour reprieve, SMASH, a charity providing support for Two residential events in Wrough- young people is again looking for volunteer mentors. ton take place during the holidays: • Musarama, a combination of music, dance and drama will run from 19 to 24 August; • Tup Puskin Nook, a native American week, takes place from 26 August to 1 September.

The cost is £70 for each week, or £130 for two.

For details on the Big Event and the residential weeks, contact Huw Solly on 07766 368398 or mail: hsolly@swindon.gov.uk West Swindon Girls Group Youth worker Clare Winslow has started a group for girls aged 13 to 19 years at Toothill Farm.

She said it’s a chance for girls to talk in an safe space about issues like relationships and sexual health, get information and advice about services for young women and organise their own fun events.

“Come along with your ideas and develop the group along the lines you want,” said Clare.

For details mail her at: cwinslow@swindon.gov.u.uk

Summer fun down on the farm Roves Farm, near Sevenhampton, has a full programme of activities planned for the summer holidays again this year with lots to keep children occupied and happy. ferent bug habitats Animal feeding, then make some of the tractor and trailer more recognisable rides and craft sesmini-beasts during a sions will be repeated crafts session. daily. Animal racing Wind in the Wiltakes place in mid- aflows is the theme for ternoon, subject to Saturday 4 to Friday weather conditions Roves Farm welcome from 17 August. Follow the and unforeseen cirJoanne & Rupert Burr story of Toad and his cumstances.

Already this year the animal friends on tractor rides along the races have raised over £1,000 from banks of the River Cole and into generous donations for the Pros- the depths of the willow woodlands. pect Hospice.

Saturday 18 August is Robin Themed holiday activities start on Saturday 28 July with Bug Week. Hood day. Hunt for the stolen gold Take a tractor ride to hunt for dif- around the farm on the rides and collect items to make a Sherwood Forest hat.

The end of the holidays from 25 Flowers for all occasions August is marked by Sunflower delivered locally Week. The tractor will pull the trailer to the beautiful swaying Also wedding stationery made to order. fields of sunflowers and there will Malvern show medallist be competitions to make the best Tel: 07971 915249 e-mail: scenteddesigns@btinternet.com For details call 763939. www.scenteddesigns.com www.rovesfarm.co.uk

The most cost effective way to move home or business Single items to full house removals Professional, friendly & reliable www.robbinsremovals.com Tel: 07876 338025

21 July 07 copy

50

Life experience is all you need to become a mentor

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

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

Smashing future. The Mayor and Mayoress Michael and Sue Barnes help Josh Chesterman, SMASH youth committee member, staff and volunteers launch the new base at Link Centre in late May

A Big Lottery grant of £494,000 saved the charity from closure in May and will cover core costs for the next three years.

Project manager, Richard Roberts, said it was a tremendous vote of confidence in the project and its work, as 80 per cent of lottery grant applications are turned down initially.

Having secured funding, the project was forced to find a new base when Swindon Council asked them to leave their previous premises at The Limes in Upper Stratton. Fortunately, they found a new home in the former youth suite at Link Centre.

SMASH pairs vulnerable young people aged 13 to 18 with a mentor who meets them once a week.

The young people may have a

history of school exclusions, health difficulties, low self-esteem, antisocial behaviour or special needs or may be missing out on adult support for a variety of reasons.

Assigning adult mentors has proved effective at improving school attendance and qualifications and raising self-esteem and confidence. The mentors come from a wide range of backgrounds but all want to give something back to the local community. After an initial training course there is continued support from project staff.

There is a waiting list of vulnerable young people needing support and encouragement to reach their full potential.

For details of training to become a mentor call 879297. www.mysmash.org

Reading will result in more trees Leafing through a book will be rewarded with tree tokens during this year’s Swindon Libraries Summer Reading Challenge.

The Big Wild Read from 19 July to Neil Griffiths will present the 8 September is a free activity for prizes at a special event in Septemchildren of all ages that runs in ber.

“We hope as many children as libraries throughout the holidays.

This year, in a partnership with possible will join in the Big Wild the Woodland Trust’s Trees For Read and enjoy a summer of readAll campaign, every book a child ing,” said librarian Rachel reads will earn tree tokens which Kowalski. “The library will help will be translated into up to 20,000 children explore the imaginative world of books, and find out how new trees for UK woods.

Children will be encouraged to to make a difference to the enviget their noses into a good book ronment.”

Read writer’s blogs about their with special scratch and sniff stickers to collect in a Big Wild Reading books, record your thoughts about Folder. If they read six books and the books you’ve read, take part in complete 6 activity sheets, they will games, activities and find out how receive a certificate, a medal and to make a positive difference to the environment at: entry into a prize draw. www.bigwildread.org.uk Children’s author and storyteller

New film releases for July at North and West Swindon libraries Missing in America, Invincible, Sleeping Dogs, Riding the Bullet, The Hamiltons, Ghost Rider, Number 23, Flags of our Fathers, Letters from Iwo Jima, Venus and many others.

The rental is only £3 for a whole week hire.

15/6/07, 11:28 am

Check out the new look www.swindonlink.com

Westlea deal with Joseph shambles and dream lives on Bouncing back after their disappointment over the BBC’s Joseph competition, Westlea Primary School is keeping its desire to sing out loud by staging their own version of the hit musical, Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Westlea choir teacher, Sarah the Joseph bug; the music is absoThe choir, below, had high hopes of success when they were ranked Sumner, said, “it was really unfair lutely fantastic,” said Mrs Sumner.

She is now hunting for props fourth in the national online com- and I felt sorry for the children petition to select youngsters to sing who had given up their time and and costumes for the show on 10 alongside the winner of ‘Any committed so much energy. The and 11 July. If anyone has a chariot Dream Will Do.’ But they were whole competition made me very of gold, a child’s Elvis costume, technicolour coat or plain brightly horrified as their rating plum- angry.

“We teach the children that tak- coloured t-shirts, contact the school meted and the voting descended ing part is the main thing but in on 870469. into chaos.

The BBC was forced to suspend this case it was not a good experiThe Westlea choir’s Joseph the site due to suspicions of block ence. They were upset when they video clip can be seen at voting. Eventually, all online votes saw the final.”

The Westlea youngsters’ efforts were set aside and a panel of judges www.swindonlink.com watched all 843 entries to draw up will not be wasted as the whole of a shortlist from which Andrew KS2 comes together for this year’s Lloyd Webber picked the winners. summer production. “We’ve all got

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

Sunday services are at 10am & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org “the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23)

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

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

Environmental club for the holiday The Wastewatchers holiday club at Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads will run from Sunday 29 July to Sunday 5 August, 10am to 12 noon and will explore the themes of God’s creation, caring for the environment and Jesus transforming lives.

The club is aimed at 5 to 11 year And on Saturday 4 August, 10am olds and will include drama, craft, to 12 noon, parents, children and games, Bible discovery, small- club leaders will walk the walk as group discussion and creative well as talk the talk, and do some prayer. litter picking around Abbey Scripture Union has partnered Meads. with A Rocha, a Christian nature For details and to book a place conservation organisation to pro- call Diane Charlesworth-Herbert duce this programme. on 700618.

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

Puppets for the Lord You are Special, a fascinating children’s puppet show promoting the Christian message professing God’s love will be performed at Citifaith Church, opposite the Pilgrim Centre in Regent Street on Saturday 30 June, 7pm.

Tickets are £3 adults, £1 children are available from 534693.

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

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

Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

www.swindonfamilychurch.org.uk www.nsbc.org.uk

21 July 07

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21 July 07

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14/6/07, 6:06 pm