west Swindon's
Meigeizine THE,
Li Est 1978
Circulation 10000
Hi Neighbour, did you know we are only two miles from where you live? That we can deliver a new bed the same day as you order it? Do you know we have a new Pine bed 46" 4-Drawer Divan - for only £87.00? Silly of course the mattress is extra, but only from £49.00l Anyway, because you are reading THELINK, just mention this password when you purchase or ring us and we will give you A FREE DELIVERY. Remember "THE L/NK"AND GET IT FREE 17/20 HIGH STREET WOOUON BASSETT TEL: SWINDON 853887
No.63 June 1987
EXCLUSIVE Will W. Swindon Consumers Get A Choice?
T. V. H. Q.
West Swindon became the headquarters for Britain's newest television channel in May - for just one week. The People Channel did not actually get off the ground but the real satelite dishes and the hoardings outside the Windmill Hill Business Park were quite convincing that something big was happening. Inside one of the hi-tech buildings next to the re-built windmill, all was a hive of activity. A BBC 2 film crew were making a two hour film called 'The Vision' with stars Dirk Bogarde and Lee Remick. It tells the story of how a rightwing American religious TV channel is launched in Europe, using this country as a base. Dirk Bogarde plays the familiar, friendly front man for the new channel. Lee Remick is the controller of the U.S. parent organisation. Whether The People Channel captures our hearts and minds remains to be seen but, as the BBC production controller said, 'The Vision' has an interesting plot with a twist in the tail.
NEW PLAYGROUP OPENS
Ready for the first slide. Councillor Ricky Midwinter and Canon John Rogan cut a ribbon surrounded by parents and helpers.
A dream in the imaginations of a small group of women became a reality when West Swindon's newest playgroup was officially opened on 21st May. The Oliver Tomkins Playgroup started in July 1985 when a group of mums were chatting about the difficulties of getting children into playgroups. Helped by Mary James, worker with the Bristol Diocese Board of Social Responsibility, the group decided to get a building and set up their own. Not quite realising the enormous task they had taken on, they proceeded to raise over £14,000, get planning permission, buy and completely refurbish a building and employ staff. The first children to enjoy the results of this great effort started on June 1st. Money was raised from church charities, the BBC Children in Need Appeal, Thamesdown Community Trust and other sources. A loan was made available by the Allied Dunbar
Charitable Trust and Thamesdown Council arranged sites services and landscaping. In thanking all those who helped the project, Chair of the Management Committee Janice Gullen paid particular tribute to Mary James, Selectline Flooring and the fathers who did all the internal works, John Neate, Geoff Gullen, Martin Woodman, Tim Wilstead and John Jenkins. Canon John Rogan brought a warm welcome from the Bishop of Malmesbury saying that the playgroup would enrich family life. Toothill Councillor Ricky Midwinter, who battled for the site and for planning permission in Council committees,- thanked the playgroup for the opportunity to be involved. He said he had been "inspired by the enthusiasm of the parents and it was a pnvilege for the Council to assist such tremendous voluntary effort. The playgroup would be an asset to parents in Toothill, Grange Park and Freshbrook".
A major company may be denying West Swindon residents the chance to buy cheaper food by restricting competition in its own centre. The giant Dee Corporation, which owns the West Swindon Centre, has received a bid by a local trader to operate a Fruit and Vegetable outlet in the empty unit which used to be a toy shop. The Centre is a tiny part of the Dee Corporation empire which includes Gateway, Fine Fare, International and Carrefour supermarkets, Linfood Cash and Carries, and a whole range of other food and non-food interests valued in millions of pounds.
Not Let Yet Although the application to set up the Fruit and Veg. shop was submitted over four months ago, no decision has been forthcoming as to whether competition with Carrefour is acceptable. The Link Magazine has made a large number of enquiries to see if the interests of the consumer in lower prices is to be taken into account. It has not been possible to discover the real situation from the Dee Corporation. CONGRATULATIONS TO SWINDON TOWN F.C. ON THEIR PROMOTION TO DIVISION 2 FROM LINK MAGAZINE
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Grange Park £78,500 Extremely spacious 4 Bedroorried Detached Family House in secluded cul-de-sac location. Entrance Hall, L Shaped Lounge and Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen, Master Bedroom with shower, 3 other good sized bedrooms, family Bathroom, Double Garage. Gardens Full Gas Radiator Central Heating and all Carpets included.
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Freshbrook £64,500 Excellent 4 Bedroomed Detached Hannick Built, offering spacious accommodation. Cloakroom, Lounge Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen, Utility, Attractive Large Gardens and attached Garage Internal Viewing Highly Recommended
FRONT PIECE THE
LINK
GETTING THE LINKS MIXED UP
The Link has been tremendously Published by West well received by readers who like Swindon Publications. its size, the news and informa13, Castle Dore, tion contained in it and the fact Freshbrook, Swindon. that it now appears monthly. Tel: (0793)872282 This interest has caused an upEditor: Roger Ogle. surge in people who want to conAdvertising Sales: tact the magazine, to get a news Jackie Pearce. item into its pages, to pass on useful information to others in Tel: 771534 West Swindon or to enquire Typesetting: about advertising. Unfortunately TS Typesetting. Link Centre reception has reTel: (0793)618505 ceived a greatly increased number Artwork & Design: of telephone calls since the new ARC Design. look magazine was first published Tel: (0793)852787 in April. Apart from passing on Printed by Western Webb, the correct telephone number, Bristol. the staff will not be able to help because The Link Magazine is Published on the Wednesday entirely independent of Link closest to the first of the Centre. month. Copy date: 12th of the The magazine was responsible preceding month. for naming the centre when we "The Link was first published entered and won a competition in December 1978 as a run by Thamesdown Council to magazine aimed exclusively give the building a name. So let at the West Swindon no one forget, The Link Magazine community. It is completely was here first. independent of the Link Although we are completely Centre and, In fact, won the separate from the centre, its enorcompetition to name the mous presence in West Swindon leisure centre in 1984." will probably always create some confusion. However we are sure CONTENTS the centre staff would appreciate 4 Council News callers using the correct telephone General Election 5 numbers published on this page. Special Toothill Westlea Freshbrook & Grange Park Shaw 9 Group Profile 10 Church News 12 Arts Scene 13 Recreation 14 At Your Library 15 16-17 European Year of the Environment Feature Day In The Life 18 20-25 News & Views Home & Garden 29 Out & About 30 6 7 8
COMMUNITY DIARY
West Swindon's community diary has become an important way of getting information about coming events publicised around the area. Posters are distributed and displayed in public buildings around West Swindon. Community Groups who want to use the diary to publicise their events should contact Nicky Baker or Martha Parry on 871212 ext 234 with details.
"A Community is as strong as the people in it. Raychem links with West Swindon."
.3 WHAT'S LINCOLN UP TO NOW?
E.Y. E. This year is European Year of the Environment and in West Swindon all around us our environment is ever changing. In the very oldest parts of the area the planting areas now give those parts a mature look, in the further frontiers of Roughmoor parts of West Swindon look the same as it did over ten years ago. As an urban development most would say it's pretty good, particularly if compared to others. As a contribution to the year The Link will be featuring every month an aspect of our environment to raise awareness and appreciation of our surroundings. This month we look at Blagrove Copse which is a very exciting new public open space and we invite you to come to a rather special mid-summer event.
FIND OUT ON PAGE 17
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AT THE COUNCIL
4
JAMMING INTO THE FUTURE
WINNERS & LOSERS
Great pleasure contrasted with shock and dismay were the hallmarks of the local election results in West Swindon. Two seats on Thamesdown Borough Council were in contention, one each in the Toothill (including Westlea and Shaw) ward and in the Freshbrook (& Grange Park) ward. In Toothill Peter Stoddart gained the seat for the Conservative Party in a three way poll with Alan Winmill and Jane Burbidge as runners up. It was a nail biting
Time wasted by commuters sitting in peak hour traffic jams on main routes in and out of Swindon town centre totals at least 1,000 hours every weekday. If placed end to end, morning and evening traffic queues would stretch from Regent Circus as far as Wantage or to the other side of Calne. But worse is to come as traffic volumes are expected to increase by about 25 per cent by the turn of the century. These problems are highlighted by 'Driving Towards 2000', a major new public consultation document which was published in May by Thamesdown Borough Council. The report identifies the main traffic 'blackspots' outside the town centre and suggests some possible ideas for solutions in the shape of flyovers, underpasses and relief roads. It also points out that the cost of developing the schemes illustrated could be well in excess of ÂŁ20 million and that local authorities might face difficulties in financing capital programmes of this kind. Commenting at a Press Conference held to launch the report, Thamesdown's Director of Environmental and Technical Services, Tony Westgate said, "Essentially 'Driving Towards 2000' attempts to evaluate the kind of problems which could arise over the next few years due to 1ousing developments planned to ake place and if the motor car remains unrestrained." "But it is important to stress that the report is not a formal plan but a consultative document, designed to stir up debate and provoke ideas from the public. These could help the Borough Council formulate policies designed to combat the growing threat of current traffic congestion turning into paralysis."
finish right up to the end of the re-count which produced a difference of only thirteen votes between first and second places, in a 42% turnout. Over in Freshbrook the sitting Alliance councillor Simon Cordon romped home with a 576 vote majority over his nearest rival. Commenting on his win Simon Cordon said he was "delighted with the enormous support people had given the Alliance. Over the next four years I will continue earning that support."
ALL CHANGE AT THE COUNCIL In the annual re-shuffle on Thamesdown Council, West Swindon councillors have taken on responsibilities with a number of committees with four of them gaining places on the influential Community Planning Committee. In a surprise vote in the controlling Labour group, Toothill councillor Ricky Midwinter lost his position as Deputy-Leader of the Council, though he retains a seat on the powerful Policy and Resources Committee. He is also a member of Community Planning. Commenting on his sudden change of position, he said "it is an honour and priviliege to serve the people of the Borough in any capacity." He added that as Chair of the Local Employment initiative sub-committee he was "looking forward to spearhead-
ing the Council's job creafion programme." Another position of major responsibility has been taken by Toothill councillor Tony Free who was elected chair of the Community Planning Committee and also Policy and Resources. New Toothill councillor Peter Stoddart will serve on Housing & Health and Planning Committees. The Freshbrook councillors will serve on the following committees, Bob Pixton - Housing & Health and Public Works & Services, Martin Leighfield Planning and Community Planning, Simon Cordon - Policy & Resources and Community Planning. The addresses and telephone numbers of local councillors can always be found on The Link Reference Page.
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IN TOUCH Councillors from Wiltshire County Council were recently taken on tour of West Swindon at the invitation of Thamesdown Borough Council. The coach trip with commentary passed all the schools in the area and the forests of mobile classrooms were pointed out at Toothill, Oliver and Freshbrook Tomkins. The early work on the site for Freshbrook's semipermanent primary school off Uxbridge Road, was also visited. The coach later took the councillors through Shaw and up to Roughmoor to make them more aware of the continued growth of West Swindon and the need for facilities like a police station and the likely increased demands on the education and social services. Before returning to look round the Link Centre the councillors were shown the dangerous crossing point at the roundabout on Langstone and Whitehall Way, Westlea, where parents and children have to run for their lives to get to school because there are no pavements.
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THE GENERAL ELECTION THE CANDIDATES ADDRESS THE WEST SWINDON VOTERS SIMON COOMBS Conservative Party
Residents in the Western expansion have an important decision to make on 11 June. Simply put, the choice is whether to vote for an economic policy which is steadily bringing national regeneration, or to return to the outdated policies which led to the 'winter of discontent' nearly ten years ago. I believe that the choice in West Swindon is clear, because the area has largely been created by the policies of the Conservative Government - economic growth and increased home ownership. Most residents in the area now own their own homes, and many have bought them from the council thanks to this Government. Many West Swindon people work in the numerous companies which have been established in the last decade. These companies must grow and prosper if we are to continue to create more new jobs, and generate the tax revenue needed to care for the needy and pay for the new schools and other facilities which a growing community needs. This can only happen in a stable and successful economy. The other two parties want more statecentralised control of the economy. This destory incentives and takes economic power away from individual people. I believe that the man in Whitehall does NOT know best - the people do. Being part of the fastest growing economy in Europe is a challenge. It brings with it the chance to be prosperous and the duty to be caring for others. It would be tragic to throw all this away by returning to those failed policies of yesterday - high inflation, high taxation, too many strikes, and the pity of the rest of the world. As a fellow Swindon resident, I hope to continue working together with you to help the town prosper yet further. You can ensure this future by returning me as your MP for another term on June 11.
5
GATE JOHNSTON Labour Party
DEREK SCOTT Alliance
West Swindon is crying out for a change - a change to Labour. Local schools are bulging at the seams. Pupils are being bussed to Purton and Wroughton - and will be for the forseeable future. Temporary classrooms abound. Plans for a local police station have been ditched by the Tory Government's refusal to contribute to the cost, and the S.D.P./Liberal dominated County Council will only let the desperately needed local fire station go ahead if the police station doesn't! More than one million pupils are taught in classes of more than 30- nationwide. Over 25 million crimes have been committed under Mrs Thatcher - ten million more than under the last Labour Government. West Swindon suffers the double blight of a Tory Government and an S.D.P./Liberal County Council. It benefits from superb leisure and community facilities provided by the Labour Borough Council. A Labour Government will ensure that a nursery place is available to all 4-5 year olds. We guarantee that no child will be in a class of more than 30. Labour will put more bobbies on the beat and give home owners and tenants grants to secure their homes. We shall finance better fire services. Labour will help home owners by maintaining the standard rate of MIRAS tax relief and giving extra help to first time buyers. Minimum standards for private and council home building will be introduced. Home buying and selling will be made cheaper and easier by a system of car-style log books for houses. Council tenants will be entitled to better repairs and maintenance and to buy their houses. Only Labour will be able to resuscitate the public services from their Tory-inflicted injuries. In the 1987 local elections Labour polled 42% of the votes in SWINDON constituency - the Tories and S.D.P. were poor joint seconds with 29% of the votes each. Labour alone can beat the-Tories locally and nationally-then West Swindon will flourish.
In Swindon the Alliance can win. We start this election 11% higher than last time with Labour down by 8% and the Conservatives down by 3%. Despite Swindons many new industries 3000 people are still long term' unemployed. The Alliance's carefully costed programme will put these people back to work. In control of Wiltshire County Council the Alliance has made sure our schools have more books, basic materials and teachers. All rising fives are now guaranteed an infant class place. Our record is one of solid progress. Princess Margaret Hospital was built over twenty five years ago. Since then Swindon's population has grown by over 50,000. The staff work very hard but Swindon needs another hospital. The Alliance will improve the health service and reduce the waiting lists for operations and consultations. Well over three quarters of people in West Swindon own their own home. The Alliance supports the sale of council houses and we will continue mortgage tax relief. First time buyers will be better off by some £600 through our plan to abolish stamp duty. We want better and quicker repairs for Council homes. The Alliance will increase pensions. For those with no other income this will mean an extra £6.00 per week, £9.40 for a couple. We will replace the Christmas bonus with a double pension in December and get rid of standing charges on gas, electricity and telephone. The Alliance will give Britain strong and sound defence. In Government we will keep a minimum nuclear deterrent. We want to see a reduction of nuclear weapons on both sides. That's the only way to improve peace and security. On the things that concern people most jobs, health, defence, schools, pensions, crime, housing - the Alliance has policies that will work. Our heart is in the right place and so is our head.
TOOTHILL
6
DON'T LET OUR PLAYGROUP CLOSE I1 by D. M. King
A story from Jackie Marshall at Dunwich Drive Playgroup. Its too good to loose. Don't let it go.
TOOTHILL SCHOOL SUMMER FETE
SATURDAY 20th JUNE, 2pm - 5pm Stalls include: Tombola, Books, White Elephant, Games/ Toys, Cakes, Wina Teddy/Panda, Name the Doll. Diplays by: Penhill Majorettes, Tumble Tots, Karate Club, Childrens Country Dancing. Pony Rides, Refreshments, Pop & Ice Cream. Raffle drawn at 4pm. Visit from Nat West Bank piggy, Sir Nathanial
ADMISSION FREE
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ffZ11kfR*i0 Toothill Village Centre Tel: 487777 Apology: Due to an unprecedented demand for our 'Home Made
Sausages' we apologise to our customers who were unable to get them. We assure you this will not happen again. Here are just a few of our June Specials: Having a Barbecue?
Barbecue packs to your requirements. Home made beefburgers 15p each. Home made sausages large or small 90p per lb. Grill Chef lumpwood charcoal
The number 1 for barbecues £1.60 3kg bag. Starter fuel £1.20 per bottle. Chickens
Fresh farm chickens only 74p per lb. Fresh chicken portions only 68p per lb. * Fresh selection of fruit & vegetables daily * l0lbsof potatoes only ggp Eggs
Size 1 80p per dozen Size 3 68p per dozen Tray of pullet eggs (2'/2 dozen) 99p Bedding Plants
Who cares you might say; well unfortunately it would appear that only a small minority of parents using the playgroup do care. The group has been subject to some unsavoury publicity lately, but despite this, the staff have remained resolute in their determination to keep the playgroup open, so that our children get the pre-school education they not only need but are entitled to. To those who are unaware, playgroups are totally selfsufficient and are maintained by subscription fees paid by parents, and fund raising schemes. The latter is a function of voluntary committee members, which at this moment in time is being carried out by too few people. Therefore more parents are required to come forward and lend a hand with the running of the playgroup. None of the positions on the committee require any difficult skills, just plenty of enthusiasm and a small amount of time; not too much to ask to ensure the continued running of this playgroup. Therefore if you have a child at the group, children nearing playgroup age, or perhaps just have time to spare and wish to help within the local community, please call in at the playgroup and see the staff for further details. Despite the unfortunate publicity previously mentioned, the playgroup continues to be a happy meeting place for children, but will only continue to do so with community support. Therefore, don't leave the running of the playgroup to the minority, step forward and offer your services to help keep the Dunwich Play School open and ensure the security of your childrens early education.
CALLING TOOTHILL RESIDENTS Toothill Community Centre holds its Annual General Meeting on Friday, 12th June at 7.30 p.m. It will be both a business meeting and a social function. The Community Centre has built up a whole range of activities since it opened nearly three years ago, including a Parent and Toddler Group, Playgroup, the Good Companions Pensioners Club, Bingo sessions on Sunday evening and Keep Fit sessions. A room is set aside for teenagers and a licensed Social Club provides a place for adults to socialise every evening. The building is also the venue for the recently re-launched Thrift Shop. Like most of Swindon's Community Centres, Toothill's is leased to a local management committee who are responsible for its day-to-day operation. Over the last couple of years Toothill Community Centre has been managed by a very small group of people. There is a great need for more people to become involved in the centre to spread the load and to work to make the building a focus for the Toothill community. Present chairperson, June Chittock wants to see as many people as possible at the Annual General Meeting, "it does not matter if people have not been in the centre, they will be welcomed at the meeting; we need more people involved here," said June. Although the A.G.M. will include the business of hearing reports from the previous year's committee and the election of a new committee, it will also be a social occasion to help people get to know each other. A licensed bar will be available and free food will be served.
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WESTLEA
DANGER CROSSING Every day dozens of parents and young children cross Whitehill Way on their way to and from Westlea School. They take the most direct route from their homes in Eastleaze but there is no direct foot-path. Wiltshire County Council highways policy tries to separate pedestrians from major roads but does not make allowance for the fact that people will take the most direct route. At Westlea it is ironic that Wiltshire also provides the school to which children and adults have to risk life and limb to get to. One day there will be a fatality
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when somebody has not run, dodged or weaved their way across the road fast enough. Councillor Help The councillors for Toohill Ward (including Westlea & Shaw), Ricky Midwinter, Tony Free and Alan Winmill, hold a weekly surgery on Friday 6pm - 7pm in the Community Room, Toothill School.
THE C'ffibridQe DIET
NEARLY READY The marvellous play area at Upper Shaw Farm Centre is nearly ready. Playgroup leader Lyn Scragg is pictured here admiring the giant sandpit (not a swimming pool) over which a pergola is being built. The play area is entirely fenced in and will be for the exclusive use of centre users. With an all weather rubber surface it will be usable throughout the year. Grand opening activities are being planned and will bepublicised in the July and August Links.
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8
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK FIRST ASSEMBLY FOR NEW SCHOOL
FRESHBROOK TAKE AWAY FRESHBROOK VILLAGE CENTRE, FRESHBROOK, SWINDON, WILTS TELEPHONE: (0793)873178 IT DOES NOT MATTER WHO YOU VOTE FOR, WE ALWAYS COME OUT ON TOP. Try us for Exotic Chinese Dishes, Delicious Quick Snacks and Traditional Fish & Chips. Telephone orders we/corned
Fresh brook's second school, Windmill Hill County Primary, has started to arrive in a convoy of low loader lorries. The semi-permanent' structure is being bolted together and made water tight in readiness for the first children in September.
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every weekday. Freshbrook Community Centre. Cuppasa great place to make friends. 40
• .........•
The Freshbrook Village Group holds its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 17th June at 8pm. The organisation acts as a community council for Freshbrook residents by taking up issues of concern on their behalf. By its constitution, every resident of Freshbrook, including Grange Park, is a member of the Village Group and has a say in electing its Executive Committee which is responsible for the day-today business. The annual meeting is a good chance to find out what has been going on over the past year and what is being planned. The Guest Speaker, following the business side of the meeting, is Rev. Andrew Hake who was Social Development Officer with Thamesdown Borough Council until 1986. In that post he was very influential in the planning of West Swindon. Rev. Hake also served on the Archbishop of Canterbury's Commission of Inner City Deprivation which produced the report 'Faith in the City'. Rev. Hake will be speaking on the subject 'Freshbrook— The Making of a Community.' He is always an interesting speaker and should provoke a good discussion about the area in which we live. The Annual General Meeting will elect a new Executive Committee for the next twelve months and residents of Freshbrook are encouraged to consider joining the Executive, for the good of the community. All residents of Freshbrook are invited to come along.
FRESHBROOK FUN DAY - SAT. 13th JUNE The Church or more specifically the site has been the source of great controversy over the last couple of months. Now you can see what is proposed for the land in between the two Freshbrook School's on Worsley Road. Councillor Bob Pixton has arranged for the plans proposed by the competing church groups to be displayed in the Cafe at Freshbrook Community Centre. Pop in to see them and pass your comments on to Bob on 695317
Carnival Procession starts at 1pm and proceeds by Worsley Road. down Liskeard Way. along Gainsborough Way. and Rowton Heath Way back to Freshbrook School Field to be judged by the Mayor and Mayoress of Thamesdown.
Fun Day starts at I .45pm with the return of the procession. Baby Competition and Fancy Dress Competition for 3-7 year olds and for over 7's. - Entries on the day.
Charities supported from Carnival CollecDisplays by Freshbrook's GWR Majortion - C.A.L.M. and PMH Scanner ettes, Sullivan School of Dancing, Martial Appeal. Arts. Attractions: Stalls, Roundabouts, Air Castle, Community Group Stalls. Invited Personalities: Lincoln The Bear and Mr. Beefeater
SHAW INTRODUCING PETER WOODCOCK Headteacher Brookfield School
"Dear Readers, Preparing for the opening of Brook Field School in Shaw is an exciting and challenging time for me. I look forward to working with you all on the western development. My name is Peter Woodcock and at a mere 38 years of age I'm fit for anything. I grew up around Manchester quite close to Bury, where black puddings and tripe were heavy on the dietary package. Thank goodness for Carrefour! After 'A' levels I trained in Business Studies for three years taking a Higher National Diploma but after a year in industry decided I'd like to sacrifice myself to the whims of children. I'm glad I did. It is very rewarding working with enthusiastic primary aged children and providing a curriculum based on first hand experience. I started my teaching career on the outskirts of Liverpool and have since worked at five schools in Wiltshire. My last four years have been spent as head of Walter Powell School near Malmesbury. We've got a lovely new building at Brook Field but moreover I want it to be your school as much as mine. Hopefully schools and teachers are more approachable these days. I'm at Shaw Ridge school this term, courtesy of Keith Burke, so ill can be of help please get in touch. Best wishes to you all. Peter H. Woodcock Headteacher of Brook Field School P.S. I like music, sport, travel, the arts, dogs and a very occasional black pudding." JUMBLE SALE SATURDAY 6th JUNE, 2 p.m. SHAW CHURCH, NINE ELMS LANE ADMISSION Sp. ALL PROCEEDS TO SHAW CHRUCH
SHAW RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
HILARYS HAIR STYLING Hair Design at Home for Ladies, Gents & Children
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WILL BE HELD AT I SHAW CHAPEL NINE ELMS LANE AT p.m. ON THURSDAY 11th JUNE ALL RESIDENTS OF SHAW ARE INVITED TO ATTEND
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SCHOOL OF MOTORING First four lessons at discount price Free pick up service A. D. I. & D. P. T. Instructor New dual controlled Vauxhall Nova Gift Vouchers available for all occasions For patient and professional tuition contact Graham on 828056
New Shaw Playgroup by Lin Davies Spurred by the arrival of the empty yellow portakabin in April, at Ramleaze Drive, on the site of the Shaw Village Centre, a number of interested local mothers have met to form the nucleus of the Shaw Village Centre Playgroup Committee. The April edition of 'The Link' had a small article on the proposed playgroup and the inaugural meeting took place at Lower Shaw Farm. The group has made itself known to Social Services and we now look for members - parents to help the setting-up of the playgroup, and children eligible for entry to the playgroup from September, 1987. It is hoped that, membership permitting, the playgroup will initially open three mornings a week, eventually five mornings may be possible. A high level of parental involvement will be expected to ensure a successful playgroup. Interested in getting involved in your local Shaw Village Centre Playgroup? Contact: Lin Davies - Committee involvement or simply to help. Telephone 875795. Julie Tays - Membership list. Telephone: 875389. Rose McCance - Telephone: 875818. Our next meeting will take place in Shaw's temporary community centre, the Doctor's surgery. Ramleaze Drive, on Monday, 8th June, 1987, when we expect to have speakers and organisers to show us the way forward. Come along without obligation.
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GROUP PROFILE
10
A BRIDGE FOR NEWCOMERS One of West Swindon's newest community groups has been formed to help new arrivals meet each other and to find support from other people in the area. 'Newcomers' meets on Fridays in the Community Suite at the Link Centre and according to Sheila Cracknell, one of the organisers, 'new' is defined very widely. "Basically we have to help people who do not know others, or don't know what is going on in the community," said Sheila, "they could have just moved here from somewhere else and settling down in a new area is a traumatic experience, what with unpacking, finding schools or playgroups, making friends and so on. Then there are people who have lived in West Swindon for some time, but have not joined in with anything and perhaps do not know how to. "There are also those who are new to parenthood. Most parents, especially mothers, discover a whole different way of living once children come along. The change from work can be a shock and it can be a lonely, depressing existence, if you do not know many others who you can confide in.
"We have a small group and provide a friendly atmosphere where newcomers to the area can make the initial and often important contacts." Another organiser, Moyra, explained that 'Newcomers' is an offshoot from the Tuesday coffee mornings held at the Link Centre which are run by Pam Pixton, West Swindon's new arrivals visitor. "Some of us who had been to the coffee mornings a few times thought there was need for another chance for people to get together, especially those who perhaps do not feel very strong about joining the more established parent and toddler groups.
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In a way we are a bridge where people can make friends before moving on to other groups closer to home," said Moyra. "When I moved here at the end of last year I did not know a soul and many groups did not have room for me and my children. I really was quite lost and isolated and became fed up with West Swindon. You can only go to Carrefour so many times in the week. So I was very thankful for the Tuesday get-together. At least I could come in from that freezing weather." Heather Foskett is another friendly face at 'Newcomers'. "We're trying to be a flexible
group," she commented. "We're here to respond to the needs of parents; some will come every week, others will come on just two or three occasions before finding some other activity to join in with. Our times are flexible too. We're here between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Fridays. People can drop in or leave at any time depending on what they are doing. Sometimes the baby is asleep in the early afternoon or there may be shopping to do or children to pick up from school. It's up to the user. "Hopefully, not only will people who come to 'Newcomers' have made some friends, they will have acquired useful information about the community and perhaps gained confidence. 'Newcomers' and the Tuesday Coffee Mornings for new arrivals, which is open to anybody who needs information about the community, will continue throughout the summer in the Toddler Group room at the Community Suite, Link Centre. Newcomers Friday 1 p.m. —4p.m. Coffee Mornings Tuesday 10a.m. - 11.30a.m.
A fundraising event for the WASPS summer playscheme
A NIGHT AT THE RACES
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Saturday 20th June
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At the Link Theatre doors open 7- 30pm
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ÂŁ2- 00 entry tickets only 74W*40&W Unit 7 Templars Way Industrial Estate, Marlborough Rd., Wootton Bassett, Wilts. SN4 7EJ. Telephone: (0793)854771 (Eve. 850514)
4
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includes free buffet
We're celebrating, again! It will come as no surprise to learn that Swindon Cable Limited are not content to be just the most successful cable television company in the country! In a determined effort to still further improve customer service, last Saturday we officially unveiled our exciting.
New Swindon Cable Television Shop! What could make more sense? Now everyone can see for themselves why more and more people are switching to better television choice! It'll make subscribing easier too, whilst existing customers can simply update on the new channels, make account payments, pick up a current 'Cable Guide' or take advantage of our special offer goodies. Our experienced staff will be only too pleased to help with any questions and enquiries you may have.
Where you'll find us! You'll find we're centrally placed, behind Woolworths right next door to the British Telecom 'Phoneshop' in Edgeware Road.
First again! On Monday June 1st at 6.00pm, we launch a new era in British entertainment the Homeshop Bingo Programme! For the first time on UK television, we bring you Live Bingo, 6 days a week with thousands of pounds worth of prizes! In addition the 'Homeshop' section will be offering a wide variety of goods below Mailorder prices, exclusive to Swindon Cable Television, and brought to you courtesy of Littlewoods Mailorder and Littlewoods Superstore, Regent Street, Swindon. Look out for your Free Bingo Card, coming soon! SWINDON
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12
CHURCH NEWS
The First Freshbrook 1981 Church -WINTER SMALL BEGINNINGS by Douglas Linnecar
Snow, buildings being constructed everywhere, roads a quagmire, difficulty in finding your way about . . . such was the scene a few years ago when people began to take up residence in the new Western Development. A few people who had been used to going to church decided to start up in a small way a Service of Worship on Sunday in one of their homes. It was evident from those who attended that there was a great need in the area and so it was not long before Services were being held in the old Community Hut, the predecessor of a graduate from Moorlands Bible the present Community Centre. College, was inducted to the On the opening of the Com- Pastorate. He came to us together munity Centre at Freshbrook, with his wife Jan, and children, permission was sought and Esther and Amy. Both the chilgranted by the Council for regular dren are attending the Oliver services to be conducted every Tomkins School. The Church now has a thriving Sunday. From the original four people who initiated this venture Sunday School, a Senior Bible has now sprung the Freshbrook Class and an Adult Bible Class Evangelical Church founded of- which all meet at the Community ficially in 1983 and affiliated to Centre every Sunday. Weekly the Fellowship of Independent activities include a Ladies FellowEvangelical Churches. Because ship meeting in the School Comof the growth of the Church, it munity Room at 10.00am every was decided to appoint a full time Tuesday, and in the evening a Minister so on the 23rd February, meeting for Prayer and Bible 1985, the REV IAN BEEDHAM, Study is held at 8pm. A Meeting
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for young folks on Monday Evenings (The Adventurers) is held at the Community Centre. Further meetings are held on Fridays in members' homes for the Young Marrieds and Singles. Meetings are also conducted on a monthly basis in the Sheltered Homes and at Easter and Christmas, special meetings are conducted there for the benefit of the Residents. An active policy of visitation is pursued by the Minister who sets aside specific times during the week for this purpose. The Church is expanding, is friendly and there is a real sense of Fellowship. If you are new to the area and want somewhere local to Worship, why not come along on Sunday at 1100am and/or 6. 3Opm and find out what we are about. If you so require you can contact the REV IAN BEEDHAM on 694157. Do come along, you will be given a most warm welcome and you never know, you may find that you like it!
FLOWER FESTIVAL ST. MARY'S CHURCH LYDIARD TREGOZE Join us for the 'FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS' on: Friday 3rd July 1030am to 7pm Saturday 4th July 1030am to 7pm Sunday 5th July 1230pm to 6pm The church will be fully decorated with flowers and all its treasures, including the Tryptch which will be on show. On Friday evening at 730pm the Junior pupils choir from Oliver Tomkins School and the St. Mary's Church Choir will sing for us. On Sunday at lOam a Family Service will be held followed at 11am by the Civic Service for Mayoral Sunday, attended by our Mayor and Mayoress and Civic dignatories. At 630pm a Festival Community will be celebrated. Stall with many attractions will be Outside the Church gates, a raffle will be held and refreshments will be available in the stable room during the period of the festival.
THE ST JOHN TRIPTYCH Grant to restore 17th Century Masterpiece Looking at old oil paintings isn't everybody's cup of tea - mind you, if you've got a Van Gogh to sell, that's a different matter! In St Mary's Church, the one in Lydiard Park, there is an old oil painting - not a Van Gogh - but unique and fascinating none-theless. On nearly 300 square feet of canvas, a court painter of the 17th century has painted life-size portraits of two generations of the St John family who lived in the Mansion, and a number of folding panels rich in heraldry which show who is linked to whom in the family tree going back to William the Conqueror. This is the St. John triptych that is mentioned in every guide book as a treasure of Britain. It needs a lot of restoration work doing to it, but enough has already been done to show that a full treatment would have an exciting result - and that's just what is about to happen, thanks to a handsome grant from the National Heritage Memorial Fund. Details have still to be worked out but the work should be carried out on the spot as it is such a large and permanent fixture in the church. was triptych The commissioned by the 1st Baronet to commemorate his parents, and is just one of a very fine collection of 17th century monuments in the church. If you are up in the Park, it is possible to borrow a key and see for yourself. Church members are hoping to organise a rota for Sunday afternoons this summer. If it comes off, you should be able to see the triptych opened out to show the central portraits.
MANOR ROAD, WESTCOTF PLACE SWINDON. TEL. 29352 (Behind Mike Knight Tyres)
ACCIDENT REPAIRS SERVICING MOT TESTS
Soon to be cleaned up. The St. Mary's .Tryptch.
13
ARTS SCENE WEST SWINDON ARTS DEVELOPMENT GROUP First meeting 22nd June As readers of the 'Link' may have noticed there are quite a lot of things going on in West Swindon. The growth of the community has been mirrored in the growth of arts activities. 'Video Solent' at the West Swindon Centre appears to do a roaring trade, and surprisingly has some good
Then there are groups of people in the community who would like to have the support and advice of an artist. Julie Livsey our artist in residence for West Swindon hqs had many requests for her skills but cannot respond to them all. Other people may be able to, and could et paid as well.
DRAMA AT GREENDOWN
Papermaking
If you fancy being in a play or involved in it's production AUDITIONS are being held on Thursday 4th June and Thursday 11th June for Dario Fo's 'CAN'T PAY, WON'T PAY' an anarchic and farcical comedy. Previous experience is not at all necessary - all are welcome. For further details contact JULES DOWLING on 874224. Greendown Community School also has a range of art and music facilities such as a drama studio, craft and pottery equipment and rehearsal space. All these facilities are available outside of school hours for interested groups and individuals. Contact Jules Dowling for further information.
If you are interested in learning to make your own paper and watch it being used with natural vegetation and colours to make large paper works, come along to the Link Centre from June 6th to 13th. Alison Lochhead will be exhibiting her paperworks at the Arts Studio until July 3rd. On Saturday 6th June from 10.00 4.00 p.m. she will be running a basic paper making class, followed on the following Saturday by an Advanced/experimental class. In between the classes she will be working 'in residence' on the Link Centre Mall area creating a large calico based work for display in the Centre. Details from Link Arts - 871212 ext. 227.
MANY THANKS
books) and also help in manning stalls at the various events we'll be attending over the summer months. For more information on how you can help the fight to clean up the Earth for future generations, please ring Paul on 870825 or Neill on 37064.
Swindon Greenpeace Supporters Group thanks all West Swindonians who have supporterd our stalls at the Link Centre and Carrefour recently and looks forward to seeing you all again. We would welcome any bric-abrac you can spare (particularly At the hub of community arts in West Swindon. Workshops at Link Centre. videos tucked away in between 'Rambo' and 'Back to the Future'. It's worth noting that the 'new wave' of war films from Hollywood, 'Platoon' is the most popular example, are taking a less glorious view of macho slaughtering. Outside of the Video Shop, there are people in West Swindon creating and producing work of various types. Painters, Actors, Sculptors, Musicians and interested participants are all engaged in trying to get their work funded, shown or performed. There are lots of hurdles facing them, lack of money, rehearsal space, performance areas, etc. Yet there are also spaces available at the Community Centres and the Arts Studios at the Link for example.
JUNCTION 16 DRAMA GROUP
A change to the information in last months 'Link'. 'Junction 16's' new production, 'Love in a Mist' will now be performed at the Link Arts Studio Theatre on Thursday 2nd July, Friday 3rd July and Saturday 4th July. The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7.30 p.m. at Freshbrook Community Centre. For further information contact Vat on 693633 or Kate on 874571.
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ARTS IN THAMESDOWN Dance, Media Arts, Drama, Music, Visual Arts Workshops, Performances and more. Your cut-out guide to arts venues. Town Hall Studios - Town Centre, Swindon 26161 ext 3144 box office 611181. Joliffe Studios - above Wyvern, Swindon 26161 ext 3149.
JAZZ DANCE AT THE LINK CENTRE If you want to learn how to dance like Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers come along to a new Jazz class at the Link with musical accompaniment from disco, funk, salsa and jazz the classes are on Saturdays from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. in the community suite until June 27th, cost per class is ÂŁ1.5O/75p.
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As a way of supporting and encouraging the arts in West Swindon Link Arts is holding a public meeting at the Arts Studios on Monday 22nd June at 7.30 p.m. to discuss the setting up of a West Swindon Arts Development Group. The aim of the meeting is to identify what people are doing and what they need to help them do it. The role of such a group could be to co-ordinate support for the Arts, to raise money, to jointly use spaces for performances, to set up community events, help in playschemes and youth activities. Link Arts has decided to arrange this meeting to discuss with you how the Arts Studio can support the Arts in West Swindon and how the people in the community can work together to support themselves. Monday 22nd June at 7.30 p.m. - we hope to see you.
Link Arts Studios - West Swindon, Swindon 871212 ext 227. Arts Centre - Old Town, Swindon 614837 or 26161 ext 3133. Wyvern Theatre - Town Centre, Swindon 24481 - box office.
Arts and Recreation Borough of Thamesdown financially assisted by SOUTHERN ARTS. Why not get on our mailing list for all events and activities? contactU BarbaraMcDavitt on 35536.
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14
RECREATION SUMMER SKATING
ANYBODY FOR CROQUET? Croquet is not the exclusive sport that it's sometimes cracked up to be. In fact anybody can have a go, more or less on the doorstep. Every Sunday afternoon, the Swindon Croquet Club hold an open session on the lawn outside Lydiard Mansion unless a match is being played. Joe Jackson is the local organiser. He claims "Croquet is a healthy, sociable outdoor pursuit which exercises the mind and body. It's also one of the least expensive sports around." Joe can be contacted on 870213
for more details.
WEEKEND EXERCISE Wootton Bassett Sports Centre has recently launched a new FITNESS CLASS for people who don't get the chance during the week. The class is held every Sunday morning between 11 a.m. and 12 noon and its major aim is to exercise with safety in a friendly environment. The class attracts both males and females, old or young, fit or unfit! People attending exercise to their own individual level of fitness. The class is set to music, but according to Sports Centre Manager, Mick Perry, "that shouldn't put the fellas off, because the class is ideal for both males and females, and since it runs over the weekend, this is a super opportunity for all the family to exercise together. This is the first fitness class Wootton Bassett Sports Centre have introduced and therefore are especially keen to get more and more local people interested. "We are also hoping to attract those people who are already travelling farther afield for fitness classes," said Mr Perry. For further information contact Wootton Bassett Sports Centre on Swindon 852197.
Adults are sometimes fearful of it, children are amused by it, teenagers love it, but one thing is for sure; Ice Skating is becoming one of the fastest growing activities in the Country! So what is all the excitement about? Once you've managed to 'find your feet' Ice Skating can provide hours of fun, combining a great aerobic exercise with balance and co-ordanation. However, 'taking to the ice' is not always as easy as Robin Cousins makes it look! More often than not the ice can take advantage of novice feet leaving first timers or 'experienced' second timers dazzed and confused! But don't despair, in order to help you get going or to improve your technique, Link Centre continually offers throughout the year courses aimed at learning the fundamentals of skating and at the same time to have fun. It doesn't even matter if you've never skated before. Non-skaters
and beginners either adults or children are encouraged to join in. Children can start as early as 5 years old where a special course called 'KIDS ON ICE' is run every Saturday morning. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a parent and can join in a course called 'PARENT AND TODDLER' which runs every Tuesday morning. Adults who don't want to miss out on the fun can participate in a course open to everyone aged 16 and over. This course, called 'ADULT BEGINNERS', is held every Thursday evening. Adults with spare time on their hands during the daytime can join in a 'COFHE COURSE' every Wednesday when you can meet new friends and skate in a fun, relaxed environment. More details about all Link Centre Ice Skating Courses are available from Link Centre Reception or phone 871212 and ask for Ice Rink.
NEW RECREATION SESSION
MOVEMENT & AFTER SCHOOL DANCE for 6-9 year olds LINK ARTS STUDIO Wed. 4.15-5.00 p.m. FUN, EXPRESSION & CO-ORDINATION
Due to the increasing demand for Badminton Courts at Link Centre, Activities Manager Rob Whitehouse is pleased to announce the start of Sunday evening Recreational Badminton. The session runs every Sunday between 7.30 - 10.30 p.m. and costs £1.50 per person. According to Mr Whitehouse the evening is ideal for people to meet informally and to have fun playing against different people. The session is also supervised by a Link Centre Activity Assistant with the emphasis on fun.
Living in West Swindon means that the countryside is very close by. More and more people are taking up horse riding as a form of exercise, recreation and enjoyment. Its a great way of getting fresh air into the lungs. To cater for the growing interest in horse riding, Clip clop has opened up, down the road in Hook. They have nearly everything to make riding enjoyable and not far away is the South Cerney Riding School. They'll make sure you learn how to handle horses with care and help you acquire the right riding techniques.
HORSERIDING FOR ALL! at
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THAMESDOWN GAMES
The annual Thamesdown Games launches into another two weeks of non-stop activity, allowing the people of Thamesdown to get involved and participate in a new activity or event. During the two weeks (6th - 21st June) there is a fantastic opportunity to either spectate or join in a wide rang;, of activities from i.e. skating to orienteering, life saving to cricke and basketball to it's a knockout! Link Centre is holding severa special events as part of the Gain;, including: Basketball Competition June 7t Inter Pub Competition June 12t Ice Skating Come and Try it June 20t Indoor Cricket Competition June 19t If you are interested in any o i the Link Centre Thamesdown Games events further details are available at Link Centre Main Reception or phone 871212. Full details of the activities in the Thamesdown Games can be obtained from Nicky Castleton on 693787 ext. 222.
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15
AT YOUR LIBRARY
A regular column by Linda Black, Librarian at West Swindon.
On the 25th June West Swindon library will be two years old, and a big thankyou to all our 11,644 readers who have seen us through the past 24 months - despite all the computer hiccups! We thought many of you might be interested to know that to date we have issued 617,870 books and handled 5,100 requested items (please forgive us if you are one
appreciation. Even if the prospect of being on public view is a little daunting, at least bring your work along for one of our show cases. Exhibitions and displays for June in the library include a craft and painting exhibition put on by the Hawthorn Centre for the handicapped (June 3rd - 17th). Several of the artists will be working in the exhibition room demonstrating how they achieve their art despite their handicaps. The library will also be accommodating a display between June 12th - 23rd in conjunction with National Childminding Week. The exhibition programme is quickly filling up for this year, but the room is still free for a short while in August and October. If you feel you, or your group, would like to put on an exhibition in the library then contact Linda Black on 871444.
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375 Come and see us NOW Mooneen Corrigan demonstrating her art to young admirers.
of the unlucky few who have had to wait for your request!). The book stock has increased from 27,000 to 36,000 and we hope to develop it further in the coming year. My thanks this month must go to Mooneen Corrigan who worked so hard in the library last month demonstrating her floral art skills. I know her exhibition gave a great deal of pleasure to many library users. Please remember, if you have a hidden talent, or particular skill that others might take pleasure and enjoyment in, then come along to the library and let us find you a spot. In this world of the mass produced, craftsmanship is a constant source of wonder and
CAMERA CLUB FOR TOOTHILL Norris Kiddie of Toothill is interested in starting a Camera Club in the area. If anybody would like to discuss his idea with him, please contact Norris on 695457 after 6p.m.
Book Reviews On the book front, recent new titles of interest include a massive Japanese adventure thriller by C. W. Nicol entitled 'Harpoon', and an even bigger blockbuster by Gary Courter 'Code Ezra' - a panoramic saga based on 30 years of Israel's history. Daniele Steel lovers will be pleased to discover her new book on our shelves 'Fine Things', and for those hooked on Andrew Greeley's plots of religious intrigue, then his book 'Patience of a Saint' should not disappoint. Horror seekers should keep their eyes open for Dean R. Koontz 'Twilight Eyes', and new novelist Chris Parker's 'Kyoki' if the jacket is anything to go by, then definitely not for the squeamish! Teres Crane's 'Sweet Songbird' will appeal to all those who can't get enough blockbuster material even if the plot involving one heroine and two loves is by now a little hackneyed! My own recommendation for the feminists is by Gloria Naylor 'The Women of Brewster Place' - writing of the first order and definitely not one to be missed.
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cops A derelict piece of land has become West Swindon's newest park and promises to be one of its most interesting. Recently opened by the chairperson of Tharnesdown Councils Arts and Recreation Committee, the Blagrove Copse provides something for everybody - keep-fit fanatics, train-spotters, birdwatchers and those who just like a walk. Soon allotment gardens will get a look in as well. The site also forms a final link in a long walkway which allows pedestrians and cyclists to travel from Swindon's old town right out to Lydiard Park without crossing a road. The area was originally farm fields but after the A420 by-pass was built in the early nineteen-
A WANDER ROUND WEST SWINDON by Bob Pixton I am sure that many of you were pleasantly surprised when you first came to live here at the amount of 'greenery' there is - I know I was and that was almost seven years ago. I, along with my family (wife, two children and a dog!) have spent many happy hours simply wandering about the Western Expansion, chiefly in Freshbrook and Grange Park. How many of you have taken visitors or relatives on walks around the area? We were delighted to find that the area is littered with:— * footpaths with generous grass areas on the sides with the original hedgerows preserved at the edges. *sound barriers with footpaths on the top with trees and shrubs making it more than a 'mound of dirt'. *daffodils and crocus flowers by the thousand just brightening up a corner or a patch of grass. *numerous grassy play areas. *comers of streets etc. planted with flowering shrubs and trees making it look colourful. *woodland areas preserved, and
NEW PARK FROM DERELICT LAND
seventies the land gradually fell into dis-use and dereliction as the farmers moved on to make 'way for West Swindon's houses. Ed Stanford, Landscape Architect in the Arts and Recreation Division, described what his colleagues are trying to achieve at Blagrove Copse. "We recognised that, as the site was out of the way and rough, we should try to exploit these aspects. "The best way to get there is by using the underpasses off Bodiam Drive from Toothill, and on the edge of Toothill Park, from the Freshbrook side. "The site is about three-quarters of a mile long and through it meanders a shale pathway which is great for joggers, walkers and cyclists. Along the way we have
enhanced by planting, hedgerows layered to provide a living fence. * preserved ponds in the most unlikely places. *lots of chidren's play areas of the most varied and imaginative types available. While in older areas of town there are undoubtedly loads of houses with big grass areas the Western Expansion, I believe, is something completely different. It's really lots of greenery with lots of homes in between - the accent's on the 'countryside in the town'. Next time you're going to the school, shops or driving to Carrefour or town, try counting the greenery - I bet you run out of numbers. This is the first of a series of articles on interesting walks around West Swindon. Contributions from readers would be welcomed. For anyone who wants to see the countryside in Freshbrook and Grange Park and have 21/2 hours to spare, I shall be giving a 'residents view' tour of the area on Saturday 20th June starting at 2 p.m. from outside our Community Centre. I hope some of you can come. • For more information ring Bob Pixton on 695317.
used surplus play equipment to create a 'trim trail'. "Beside each piece of equipment there's a simple sign telling you what you should do at that point, for example walking along a beam or press-ups. It's entirely up to the user to decide how many to do. Some will go at the exercises really hard to get fit; others might just do one or two and when they come again might manage a few more. After all it's supposed to be fun! All the equipment is located on a soft bark safety surface and the .more difficult exercise areas are tucked away behind bushes so that you can try them without everybody watching." Mindful of possible dangers closeby, both the road and railway are fenced and hedged. For nature lovers the Blagrove site is going to be a haven for wildlife. "In the middle of the site there is a flat mown area for kicking footballs and running around," said Ed Stanford, "and there are some picnic tables as well. "But before you get there we have left patches which will be cut only once a year to encourage wild flowers and insect life and we have planted hundreds of trees to form small copses. Because there are overhead power lines our staff will have to practice the ancient art of coppicing which means cutting back the hazel and chestnut every few years before they get too tall. These offcuts will be sold for broom handles, fencing or runner bean poles, so the land will pay for its management. There are also two ponds which have been cleaned up and the frogs and newts are breeding ferociously." Wheelchair &
Mr. Stanford thinks the open space at Blagrove will be used in a different way to others. "It's not very close to houses and it's not easy to park cars, so it will be a conscious decision to explore," he commented, "Families can make an adventure of going there, perhaps for a picnic; joggers can include it as part of a route, and youngsters will go off on their bikes to play football or use the keep fit equipment. If you've arrived there, it means you've made an effort to discover what's available. I think Blagrove will become more interesting as the years pass, as it matures and attracts wildlife. I do hope people will enjoy it.
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Unfortunately, because people with motorbikes are likely to use it as a rough trail, Blagrove has been fenced and gated. Plans are in hand to organise keys for people in wheelchairs, but at present it is difficult for chairs and prams to visit the site.
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A MIDSUMMER FAMILYPICNIC Sunday 21st June, 12 noon --4 .m. Come on an adventure to the Blagrove Copse Park bring a picnic and make it a West Swindon community get-together. Refreshment tent organised by 1st Westlea Scouts and Cubs Link Centre Inflatable and Lincoln The Bear CS O1,altisej Bring Footballs, Frisbees, Rounders Bats and Balls G'" .S.J' bV Children - come in fancy dress and win a prize the theme is nature (e.g. birds, bees, animals, flowers etc.) - Judginf at .00 p.m. (Wheelchairs and Prams - please use Bodiam Drive Gate which will be open.)
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Allotments at Blagrove this Autumn
Some long awaited allotments will soon be available in West Swindon at the western end of the Blagrove Copse open site, close to the Water Research building. Altogether some fifty plots will be available but they will only be developed as demand shows itself. A call by Thamesdown Council's Arts and Recreation Department for people wanting to have an allotment, through the pages of The Link (in January 1987), produced considerable interest. During the summer the allotment site will be drained, fenced and a waterpoint installed ready for the autumn planting season. If uptake of the plots is good, more will be cultivated and offered for hire. West Swindon residents interested in developing an allotment should write to the Director of Arts and Recreation, Thames•down Borough Council, Civic Offices, Swindon.
18
ADAY IN THE LIFE
Yet another morning I awake to the sound of ringing in my ears. I hudge hubby to turn off the alarm. Five minutes later he's still fumbling around trying to find the 'OFF' switch. After successfully performing this difficult manoeuvre he promptly turns over to the sound of 'bleeping' every twenty seconds or so from his watch. By then I'm more awake than he is. As it's only 6.05 am, I manage to get an extra hour in before I wake the girls for school. By 8.00 am they eventually struggle downstairs getting dressed on the way. Trying to get a decision out of them around the breakfast table as to cold or hot milk on their cereals is quite impossible, so we usually end up with lukewarm. 8.25 am and Heidi goes off to school on her bike, after making sure at the last minute, as usual, she has packed her sandwiches, money, sports kit etc. Well, that's one down, one more to go! Piling up the dishes on the draining board and making sure my youngest has cleaned her teeth (which is a struggle for her at times) and washed face, hand in hand it's off to Primary School. After a big kiss and "Be good" I trot across to the sub-post office, take one look at the queue and have second thoughts! Back home I gingerly creep into the bedroom of my youngest, ready to tackle the upheaval which awaits within. Looking like the bed covers have been around the world and back, I prepare for a fight with the duvet, somehow the duvet always wins! Washday today, I struggle downstairs with piles of bedclothes in my arms and on the way to the utility step in the cats dish of milk which inevitably spills over the floor. After muttering un-mentionables to myself and
YOU NAME IT, IDOIT
Janice Oliver: housewife, mother, painter, decorator, carpenter, plumber,
clearing up the mess, I try unsuccessfully to hang my washing on the rotary line. The wind seems stronger today and each time I bend to pull another item of clothing from the basket the line has swung around a dozen times. It also looks like Round Two to the duvet!! At last it's time for lunch, a quick snack and I must video 'Neighbours' for the girls at 1.30pm or I won't hear the last of it! Looking out of the window I find I have a good selection of dandelions and daisies covering the lawn, so I wander out to the garage and try to find the mower, then I remember the cotton wool. Cotton wool! I hear you say. Yes, I need that for my ears, the mower is so noisy at times; I must remember to get it seen to. After fighting a losing battle in the wind raking up the cut grass I find I've just got time to put the kettle on for a cuppa before collecting Ria from school. Heidi has just arrived home and chats away to me about her homework. It's only then I realise I still have the cotton wool in my ears! On reaching the school Ria is waiting for me. One sock up, one down, cardigan buttoned up or is
it down? Her coat? Well, I'm not sure whether its on her or off! Oh well, that's kids for you. We just get in the door and she is out again on her Roller Boots. It's Brownies tonight so it's early tea. After losing count the number of time I've asked the girls what they want for their tea and getting no reply, I go ahead and get what I think and to hell with the consequences. At last tea is ready and the girls are no-where to be seen. So while the tea is on the table getting cold I'm out looking for them. Tea over and Brownie Uniform on, Ria is out until 7.30pm. Then it's head or tails who collects her and who tapes Eastenders. By now Heidi has finished her homework and is getting ready for bed. Ria is told to put her Brownie Uniform on a hanger instead of leaving it in a pile on the bedroom floor. 8.30pm. Girls are tucked up in bed and hopefully asleep, all is quiet but you never know! We just sit down to a relaxing evening, what is left of it that is, when the door bell rings. "Football Coupon". Another week we've forgotton to fill it in. Tomorrow? Yet another morning I'll wake to the sound of ringing in my ears.
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KEEPING IN TOUCH Hearing loss is no joke. One of its most alarming features is that it can take place gradually so the sufferer is unaware that he has a hearing problem, friends or family tend to notice first, when someone complains that the TV is too quiet or accuses others of mumbling. Gone are the days of unsightly plastic aids and dangling wires. Using micro chip technology, modern hearing aids enable the wearer to look good and to hear better. Although
DO YOU HAVE DOCTOR? Although there are more doctors in West Swindon than ever before, there still seems to be a worrying number of people not registered with a G.P., so says Mr. Bob Langley of the Family Practitioners Committee, the body that oversees where doctors set up practice. Not long ago there was only one group practice based at Ashington House, Westlea, covering the whole of West Swindon. Over the last year new doctor's surgeries have been set up at Freshbrook/Grange Park and Shaw Village Centres and most recently at Deerhurst Way, Toothill. "We've always preferred satellite doctors' surgeries serving each village," said Mr. Langley. "I'm glad that this has been achieved, but obviously, as self-employed contractors to the National Health Service, doctors do need people to register with them to make their practices viable. Although we do not know precisely, we are aware that many people have not bothered to register. Sometimes children are registered but parents do not, I can't understand it. In other cases I'm sure some people move to West Swindon from other parts of the town and do not inform their G.P. of their changed address. When they want a doctor to make a home visit they might be surprised that he or she refuses or may suggest that the patient registers with a more local practitioner. I would encourage everybody to make sure they are registered with one of the General Practitioners in their area." The names, addresses and telephone numbers of West Swindon's doctors can always be found in The Link magazine's essential information reference pages. West Swindon might not have as large a number of hearing impaired people as other areas, the availability of a local consultant must be of great value to all those who need his services. Max Beard runs Wiltshire Hearing Service from 2 Yarmouth Close, Toothill as an independent specialist and supplier of hearing aids. He provides free initial consultation and advice, will visit people at home and offers a full back—up service with concessions to pensioners. Max Beard can be contacted on 873067.
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Westlea 3 Bedroom Detached £54,750
Grange Park 3 Bedroom Detached £54,950
Green Meadow 3 Bedroom Detached £59,500
Purton 3 Bedroom Semi £55,000
Grange Park 4 Bedroom Detached £59,995
Westlea 4 Bedroom Detached £61,950
Toothill 4 Bedroom Detached £65,950
Toothill 4 Bedroom Detached £66,950
Shaw 4 Bedroom Detached £69,950
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20
NEWS &VIEWS
WHAT'S ON IN JUNE Social Evening for Green Supporters, 6pm Lower Shaw Farm. Vegan Food. 6th Jumble Sale, Shaw Church, 2pm. 6/7th Nostalgia Weekend, Lydiard Country Park. 11th Shaw Residents Association Annual General Meeting, 8pm, Shaw Church. 12th Toothill Community Centre Annual General Meeting, 8pm. 13th Freshbrook Fun Day - Procession at 1pm; Fete at 145pm, School Field. l8th-20th Handicraft Exhibition at Link Centre in aid of international Year of Homeless. Sale of work on 20th. 20th - Toothill School Fete, 2pm-5pm. - St. Peter's Catholic Church Fete, 2pm. - Ridgeway School Fete 10.30am-4.30pm, Maunsell Way Sports Ground, Wroughton. —Race Night in aid of West Swindon Playschemes.
A regular column by teachers working in West Swindon. This month Ian Matthews, Head of Greendown, asks -
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"SO WHOSE SCHOOLS ARE THEY?"
Education seems to have been very much in the public eye recently. Four years of industrial action with its effects on teachers, parents and students have obviously had their effect - and a coming general election which promises to make major changes to the system whoever is elected, has added to a higher profile for education. Parents are continually being told about the need for them to have more power and influence in our schools - what isn't so well known is that over the past year a number of major changes have occurred which already gives .parents considerable influence over the schools. These changes, the result of various new laws, are due to come into operation over the next few months. Most of the changes concern the governing bodies of schools. These bodies have in the past been made of various people with some sort of interest in education, although they have not had to be parents, or indeed to have had any real contact with schools. Parents have had a right to some representation but this has been a small proportion of the total number of governors. From September the number of parents is considerably increased - a school of over six hundred students will have nineteen governors which includes at least five parents. The remainder include six other governors who are 'coopted' - that is chosen by the governors and who may therefore also be parents. It is possible therefore that the governing body could have as many as 11 parents - a clear majority. The governors are potentially a very powerful body - they have major powers over the school curriculum (they may decide the content) and are
required by law to decide the nature of sex education (the only example of a specific area). They must produce an annual report of the activities of the school and present this for open debate at an annual meeting of the parents. They have a responsibility to advise the Head on the general principles of discipline in the school, and the Head is required to 'take these into account'. Governors also have power in the expenditure of funds provided in running the school although they cannot decide on a joint educational visit to the some exotic isle for all governors! A further area of influence is in the appointment of teaching staff - governors have a right to be present at interviews and selection panels, although the law does not make any specific comments on how the staff are selected. Finally, there are a number of other areas where governors have a major influence - these include admissions of students, control of the school premises outside of school hours, sex education, a duty to ensure that there is no form of political indoctrination, and teacher appraisal. Clearly the governors of a school are a very powerful body. It is surprising therefore that so few parents wish to become school governors, and the turnout at governors elections is still very poor at most schools. If parents wish to have influence, here is an excellent opportunity for this to happen - and if you wish to have a greater involvement in your school (and it really is yours!) or alternatively don't want others to have as much influence (think of what could happen if the wrong people got elected) then make sure that you use your vote when the opportunity arises.
LOTS ON FOR THE 45s PLUS
WE LIVE UP TO OUR NAME!
The 45 + Club provides a friendly place to meet others of more mature years who want to keep active. They meet every Tuesday between 2 p.m. and 4p.m. in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. There is a 50p annual membership fee and refreshments are served for only 20p on the afternoons. Many members of the 45+ Club, participate in the use of
the sports facilities at the Link. It's a good way for anybody who wants to stay active to do so. Once a month, on a Sunday, the 45+ Club organise a Tea Dance in the Community Suite. The next will be held on 7th June, 12th July and 9th August. All styles of dancing are catered for by Bernard Arnold who provides the musical accompaniment on his organ.
21 A LEGAL VIEWPOINT HOME EXTENSIONS -
TIRED, BORED, LISTLESS?
Vendor Consent
by Kevin Brownridge.
by David Jackman Solicitor
Time on your hands this summer? Looking for something useful to do? Do you like children? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then take the plunge and become a Wasps volunteer. Wasps are looking for volunteers to help with this summers playschemes in west Swindon. We are running four one week summer playschemes at different sites across the area. The schemes will run on Mondays to Thursdays between July 20th and Thursday August 13th. The schemes will run between 11.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. each day and will be open to children aged between 5 and 14. Volunteers do not need playwork experience you just need to be available on a regular basis. Wasps take the role of volunteers very seriously and part of the work of the paid staff on the schemes is to support the work of our volunteers. There will also be four training sessions for volunteers and you will be welcome to take part in our planning meetings. Wasps will be providing a crèche for volunteers who have children under five. If you are intereseted in finding out more about voluntary work with WASPS please contact Nicky Baker in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, tel. 871212 ext. 234. IN BRIEF * MOVES FITNESS - New Dance/Aerobics class starts at Greendown on 2nd June, 7.30pm - 830pm Tuesday and Wednesday evening. Wear something you can move in easily and come and get fit for summer. * Handicrafts Exhibition at Link Centre. 18th - 20th June in aid of the International Year of the Homeless. Sale of Work on 20th.
As an alternative to moving to a larger house, many home-owners opt for an extension, perhaps to provide a larger kitchen/ breakfast room, a playroom or a garage/workshop. Most people know that you must have Council approval to any permanent extension and your draughtsman or architect will normally, as a part of his service, apply for these statutory permissions. What most people seem to forget however, is 'Vendor Consent'. Almost all the West Swindon area is affected by a requirement for home-owners to obtain permission from the original developer and/or the Borough Council, for any additional building or extension to the original house. Some of these covenants (e.g. on Bradley estates) expire after about three years but the majority stay in force forever. They really become a problem when you later decide to sell your house and the buyer picks up the point that no consent was obtained to the extension. Often, it can be requested retrospectively - but supposing the builder refuses, perhaps because a neighbour objects? There is then a 'breach of covenant' - something which could lead to a civil action by a neighbour for compensation, quite apart from causing delay or even collapse of your sale. So, if you are thinking about extending, check your deeds first. If you don't have a copy of the original builder's transfer deed among your papers, ask your solicitor to obtain one; the Land Registry supply such copies without charge and your soclitor may even know, from his local knowledge, whether such a restriction applies in your particular case.
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UNEMPLOYED PRINCE'S TRUST TRAINING A group of unemployed teen- up stuck In one place without agers from West Swindon recently much money," said the 18 year travelled to a giant jamboree at old, "the week was one of the Caister Butlin's Holiday Camp best I've ever had. It has given near Great Yarmouth. me a lot of confidence, but as the The event which was sponsored days go by and I'm not successful by the Prince of Wales Trust was at interviews, it's waring off." a mixture of work and fun. Over West Swindon youth worker, four hundred young people aged Ian Crawford commented that 18 to 25 years from all over the the week had been very useful country converged on the holiday for the ten young people who camp accompanied by youth went to Caister, but unless there workers and. others who work was a long-term future for them with the unemployed, the training opportunity would The objective of the week away be lost. from home was to widen experience, increase self-confidence and improve the ability to get a job. The days were spent in training ______ ----N workshops aimed at developing self-awareness, and raising confidence, and practical work such as filling in application forms and interview procedures. The afternoons were spent participating in drama, music and sports. There were discos and rock bands in the evenings. For free quotes and high Gwylym Owen from Toothill quality, guaranteed found the week a useful experiworkmanship, ring ence, "I could see the point; it's 813601 or 0836good to get away from your own 242636 (Mobile) environment because you get fed 4,
George
TV & Hi-Fi Aerial Specialist
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22 WOMEN LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD Have you heard of the Women's Issues Working Party? It has recently been set up by Thamesdown Borough Council to look at the needs of women in Swindon. Over the next few months the Working Party will be taking a photographic exhibition around the town. They hope it will give people some idea of the work they are presently doing. The Working Party will be keen to hear comments, not only about the exhibition, but also about other issues which you feel are important to women. Exhibition dates for Toothill are: Tues 9th June 11.30am-3.00pm Wed 10th June 9.30am-11.30am both in the Octobus, which will be parked in Toothill village car park. Fri 12th June 10.30am-2.45pm in Toothill Community Centre. At all these times tea and coffee will be available and there will be an opportunity to discuss the exhibition and other issues. There will also be a meeting in the community centre on Friday 12th June from 1.15 to 2.15pm to provide further opportunity for discussion.
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WOMEN'S HEALTH DISCUSSION GROUP A number of women in Toothill are-setting up a group to discuss women's health issues. Meetings will be held every Monday from 1.15 to 2.45pm at Toothill Church (village centre). The first meeting took place on 1st June when a talk was given about premenstrual tension and the menopause, followed by an open discussion. The next two meetings will look at breast cancer and cervical cancer. All women are welcome and childcare will be provided. A nominal fee of 20p will be charged to cover the cost of hiring the hall. The Link would like to hear from a woman who could write a column on womens issues. Ring 872282.
GROWING WELL
The West Swindon Gardening Club is really responding to the warm weather of early summer. After months of fairly small numbers at meetings the May get-together was attended by twenty-six people who listened to a very good talk by an expert landscape gardener. The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, at 8 p.m. A programme of speakers have been arranged for the coming months and several members of the club are experts in their own fields of horticulture. The meetings are a good place to pick up handy hints and useful tips on how to make and manage a garden in West Swindon. Further information can be gained from the secretary, Dennis Grantham, 57 Rowton Heath Way, Freshbrook.
SAME DAY LOCAL CALL OUT INC EVENINGS
UNDER 5's IN THE COMMUNITY
A recent conference in Swindon looked at the problems faced by families with pre-school children across the Borough. Organised by the Thamesdown Committee for the Under S's and their Families the conference brought parents and people who work with under fives together to discuss needs and examine how they could be met. Three parents from West Swindon attended the meeting along with fifty others from across the town. The major points raised included the lack of corner shops, the lack of playgroup places and the needs for a range of provisions including nurseries. Crowded primary schools was also a major issue. Isolation and the ways to break it down was discussed along with the need to improve opportunities for women to participate in community life. More groups and courses were suggested with crèches provided on all occasions. Linda Miller, a member of the Oliver Tomkins Playgroup Committee attended the meeting. "We often think our problems are unique to West Swindon," she commented, "but parents in other parts of the town are experiencing similar difficulties. Local Meeting Your Chance To Speak Out An objective of the under-fives conference was to create support for discussions at a local level. Very few people knew about the conference as space was limited. There is a chance for anybody concerned with under-fives parents, workers and others with an interest to put their point of view and gain information. A West Swindon Under Fives meeting will take anybody on Tuesday 9th June, 8 p.m. in the Community Suite, Link Centre. Anybody with an interest is invited to attend.
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0001' I
Toothill Farm Playgroup, Bodiam Drive, has a limited number of vacancies for 3-5 year olds to start immediately, and anyone interested should contact the supervisor on 32941 or call in at the Farm House, during Playgroup hours.
ALONE & NEW TO W. SWINDON If you are, then you may be confronting a problem that is not well understood by other people. As Lyn found to her dismay when she moved to Toothill from Middlesbrough last October, it can be a very lonely life indeed if you're young, single and have left your family and life-long friends behind to work in Swindon. A job may be something to be grateful for - and Lyn was - but if you go home to a small flat in a strange place, with no car to explore a confusing landscape or visit friends further afield, you can feel.very alone indeed. "I was surprised how long it took to meet people" she said. "When you're on your own, no matter how confident you feel at work, you can still feel shy about going out in the evening. And Sundays are the worst; there's only an hourly bus and the day seems endless. Lyn feels she's over the worst now, but she is not one to forget that others are still in her situation. "There seems to be a need for an activities group for people who work. And I don't mean a Lonely Hearts group either", Lyn said. "Even couples sometimes fing they have too much of each others company and would like to widen their network." So, together with Martha Parry from the Community Suite at Link Centre, Lyn has come up with the idea for an "Introduction to Swindon" outing for newcomers. They are planning a Sunday afternoon (June 28th) tour of West Swindon and the town, followed by a look at the nearby Wiltshire countryside, with a call at a country pub along the way. Every effort will be made to help each person feel welcome and hopefully further activities will follow. One idea being considered is a weekly T.G.I.F. ('Thank God It's Friday) after work get-together at Link Centre to relax and look at what is on in Swindon each week-end. Anyone interested in the outing or just wanting to discuss these ideas should ring Martha at the Link Centre on 871212 ext. 234, or stop in for a chat on Monday. or Tuesday evening 15th, 16th June when Lyn and Martha will be glad to meet you.
ANIMALS AT THE FARM
23 Soft Water Centre Largest display of water softeners on view in this area! Including PERMUTIT - DOMEXTRA SEREIN - PERMO- SOF17 Sales and Service
For Free Site Survey Telephone or Write to MALCOLM TOOGOOD - SWINDON 853156 (anytime) UNIT, 4 OAKLANDS ENTERPRISES, BRAYDON, Nr. WOOTTON BASSETT, SWINDON. SN5 OAN. Sh9wrooms Open Saturday 9.30 a.m. - 4.00
GETTING THE MESSAGE ACROSS Graphic Artists needed to help Community Groups Groups and organisations often need to publicise what they are doing either to their own members or to the wider community. The kind of publicity involved ranges from newsletters, to press releases, personal contact with people in the media and posters. Sometimes there is somebody involved with an organisation who knows a thing or two about marketing what they do, and can project a positive image to others. Often, the lack of experience in selling a group or an idea means that all the effort and energy put in on a voluntary basis does not achieve as good a return as might be the case if publicity were better. Thamesdown Voluntary Service Centre is running a research project looking at what community organisations across Swindon require in terms of printing and publicity resources. There are about one hundred organisations in West Swindon and many would appreciate some help with publicity. Are there any graphic artists, supermarket ticket writers, illustrators or printers living in the area who could offer some of their time to help in the community. If volunteers come forward a workshop evening will be organised to bring the groups and the professionals together. If you have such skills to offer give Rosie Hodgeson a ring at T.V.S.C. on 38398 or Roger Ogle on 872282.
The peacocks that live at Lower Shaw Farm like to go roaming. Over the years peacock lovers in the old village of Shaw have encouraged them with snacks. But beware: peacocks like to peck at vegetables and flowers. If you don't want them in your garden don't feed them. Better still, shoo them away. If they continue to be a nuisance give us a ring and we'll come to your aid. Other animals at the farm include ducks, hens, goats and a donkey. These animals, as well as the play facilities, are greatly enjoyed by children. But because Lower Shaw Farm is primarily an educational centre for courses and meetings it is best if children arrange visits through their schools. Courses at the farm during the coming months include the following: Cycling Weekend 3-5th July Summer Solstice Celebration 19-21 June Yoga Weekend 28-28th June Circle Dance & Astrology Weekend 17-19th July For more information telephone 771080.
OLIVER TOMKINS C.E. AIDED SCHOOLS Governors Annual Report to Parents
(in accordance with new Education Act 1986) Parents of children attending Oliver Tomkins Infants and Junior Schools are invited to attend a meeting to discuss the Governores Annual Report to parents, on Wednesday 8th July at 8.00 p.m. in the Oliver Tomkins Junior School Hall.
p.m.
Only
TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING: 771534 or 872282
ODY11NIS '4IjJ1
Aerobics, Stretch and Shape
Beginngers & Improvers
Wednesdays 7.30 to 8.30
AT UPPER SHAW COMMUNITY CENTRE RIDGE GREEN, off Shaw Road Contact Wendy on 852829 or just come along!
AFFORDABLE ELEGANCE TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME
HAND FINISHED REPRODUCTON FURNITURE
We have a large selection of quality Reproduction Furniture in Mahogany, Yew, Walnut & Oak finishes, specialising in Solid Oak& Mahogany. Local Stockists for: Reprodux, Strongbow, Jaycee, Old Charm, Luptons, Pridry, Locks, Youngers, Wade, Bridgecraft, Carleton, Grant & Bradley.
52, Devizes Road, (Old Town), Swindon Tel: 35658 Swindon's Leading Reproduction Furniture Specialist
24
WHERE IS KERRY CLOSE?
West Swindon is a bit of a maze, even those who know it well would agree. But if the road you live in does not have a street sign, you are lost to the world. Try finding Kerry Close in Ramleaze, Shaw. Turn off Ramleaze Drive into Tamworth Drive which is circular, and round and round you go. Kerry Close is somewhere in there. A year after the houses were occupied, there is still no sign of a sign. "We spoke to Wimpeys who built the houses and they said it was the council's job," said Kevin Crowley, pictured on the right, who contacted The Link.
"It's amazing the number of people who cannot find us, its very inconvenient," added Michael Burns, who also lives in Kerry Close. Tina Taylor, on the left, has a straightforward answer, "Its only a simple little road sign, it would only take two seconds to put up. I wish somebody would get on with it."
SWINDON SEAT BELT CENTRE
Britannia IF YOU Towing Centre LOVE YOUR Swindon's KIDS, specialist towbar BELT and accessory 'EM! fitting centre.
CHILD SEAT HIRE ALSO AVAILABLE
Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Sheppard Street, Swindon. Tel. 613147
C &C WINDOW& DOOR CENTRE An exciting New Extension to our product range: THE NEW HOME MAKER • No fuss, no mess installation; usually installed within two days. • We take care of all planning and building regulations, including laying of base. • Wide range of sizes and designs. • Sturdy rigid design, quality materials, built to last. Warm, no maintenance uPVC, double / glazed windows and doors. • Heavy duty double skin acrylic or polycarbonate roof available. • Clear acrylic roof allows suntanning rays to penetrate or optional bronze tint cuts glare. • Hinged single door or new tilt and slide patio door available. Stockists of; Swish, Tufcon, Deeplas, Maintenance Free uPVC Claddings, Facias, Soffit, Skirting and Window Trims. Also available: COMPLETE RANGE WINDOWS AND DOORS IN uPVC AND ALUMINIUM
C & C WINDOW & DOOR CENTRE
54 STATION ROAD, SWINDON. Tel 643866
ON THE BEAT
PC 920 VINCENT Beat area -THE WEST SWINDON CENTRE & THE LINK CENTRE PC Sid Vincent is 30 years of age, married and lives in a small village near Marlborough. He comes from a farming background and was employed as a gamekeeper prior to joining the Wiltshire Constabulary in 1975. All his Police service has been in Swindon, five years of which was in the divisional control room. At present his beat is the West Swindon Centre and the Link Centre. He has covered this area for two years, where the main problems are shoplifting and public order. His hobbies include fly fishing, foxhunting and game shooting.
TITCOMBE 10k RUN 5th JULY The second annual West Swindon 10 kilometre run will take place on Sunday 5th July. Sponsored by Titcombe Garages of West Swindon, Unigate Dairies and the Total Fitness sports shop, the run is being organised by Swindon Road Runners, who are also organising a Children's Fun Run. The adult race for over sixteens starts at 11 am, from Lydiard Park, passes through Freshbrook, Grange Park, Shaw and returns to the park via Lydiard Millicent. A limit of 600 runners has been set and application forms are available from Total Fitness, Morley Street, Swindon and Terry Warner Sports in Commercial Road. The Children's Fun Run will take place within Lydiard Country Park and starts at 10a.m.
CRIME PREVENTION Despite what newspapers may say, elderly people are NOT more likely to become the victims of crime. But it is important to take a few sensible precautions, particularly with callers at the door. This is the view of Sergeant John Wickham, Swindon's Crime Prevention Officer based at Swindon Police Station. "The majority of callers will be quite genuine, but there are some who are out to steal or 'con' you out of your money", says Sergeant Wickham. "It's a very good idea to have a security chain on your door, put it on before you open it, and if you're not sure about the caller, don't." He goes on to describe the kind of people who are out to 'con' you. "The bogus 'official'. Seemingly respectable and smartly dressed, he may claim to be from the council, the water board or some other organisation. He may even claim to be a solicitor. But his real purpose is to trick his way into your home to see what he can steal. The bogus 'dealer' may offer to buy your furniture or other items at what may seem to be a good price. But chances are that he is trying to trick you into parting with something at well below its true value. If you want to sell something try to get it properly valued by a genuine dealer or ask a friend or relative for their advice. The bogus 'workmen'. They may say that they need to come in to check something, or make urgent repairs. Again, they really want to come in to steal. You also need to be careful with callers who offer to make building repairs or lay tarmac drives. Often they will ask for money in advance and then simply disappear, or do a third-rate job very expensively. If you need to have any building work done it makes sense to get several written quotes first from reputable firms and then decide which is the best. Remember, genuine callers will normally make an appointment first, and will carry identification. If you are suspicious, phone your local police station and tell them what has happened. It's better to be safe than sorry". Sergeant Wickham is available to provide advice to all sections of the community. He can be contacted on 28111 ext. 4137.
25 NQ JP
John Holmes
fl
GROUND FLOOR
FIRST FLOOR
• • • • • • •
• Guitars • Drums • Amplification • Home Recording • Synthesisers • School Recordert • flutes • Clarinets
•
Organs Pianos Keyboards Hi-Fl Equipment Video Compact Discs Cassette Recorders 1,000s Of Musical Albums
TRADITIONALLY BUILT FAMILY HOMES FOR THE MORE INDIVIDUAL FAMILY.
SECOND FLOOR: YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOL MUSIC SUPERSTORE ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
JOHN HOLMES MUSIC 21 -22 FARINGOON RD. S'MNDON Hoed Office (0793) 34095
Were helping a lot of people make beautiful music
ST. PETER'S R.C. CHURCH CARRONBRIDGE ROAD, EASTLEAZE
SUMMER GARDEN FETE SAT. 20th JUNE, 2pm Stalls include: Cakes, Books, Bric-A-Brac, Nearly New, Fancy Goods, Sweets, Home Produce, Tombola, Toys, Refreshments and many others.
Unless you're particular about the design of houses you want to live in, choosey about the surroundings and views, fussy about the standard of quality and decor, then you probably won't appreciate the unique designs of Bradley Homes. If however you and your family are looking for something a little more individual, we suggest you make Bradley Homes compulsory viewing. Plan a visit today.
LINK TO THE PAST by Nick Digby
Bdky Homes Built onl}aditicii
Main attractions: Dog Show and Fancy Dress Parade.
OAKLEAZE, WEST SWINDON.
Oakleaze is an excellent development of 3 and 4 bedroom luxury detached homes equipped to a high specification from around £60,000. Showhome opening soon. Contact the Spinney Sales Office (0793) 870185 or Head Office (0793) 613242.
Prices correct at time of going to press.
Bradley Homes, Okos, Swindon, Wilts SN1 4JJ, 1 & (0793) 613242.
THE LAST FARM IN WEST SWINDON WICK FARM
Sitting on the end of Shaw Ridge, overlooking the Purton Road is Wick Farm, the last working farm in West Swindon. The fields are still put to pasture for cattle, just as they have been for 500 years. The landscape of ancient hedgerows and green pasture is about to vanish Wick Farm circa. 1200 forever. Wick is of ancient origin. There was a settlement there by pattern. The farm itself had 1235 when a Knight held 'La acquired its present layout with Wik'. A 'John de Wyk' existed in most buildings occupying their 1343 and another John Wyk, present positions. Wick lies on an ancient perhaps a son, in 1412. Some signs of their farming activities trackway, preserved today in remain in the form of ridge and Wick Lane, the broad hedged furrow, an indicator of arable way leading from Shaw (now a farming in the medieval period, cycle path), along which Wick is while some or even many of the still approached today. It may platforms around the existing have been a previous route of buildings may date to this Hay Lane that now runs along period. These would have acted the bottom of the valley as dry areas on which farm separating Wick from Lydiard Mansion. buildings could have been built. The brick farmhouse is a By the mid-sixteenth century, the Medieval farming system had Listed Building, an attractive broken down and was replaced stone-roofed structure facing by the enclosed hedge fields that south-west and nestling amongst range of present we see today, at which time Wick the would have become solely a outbuildings, mostly situated to pasture farm. The fields were the south and east. The A tost certainly on the same earthworks around Wick Farm layout as today, as an estate map are not unique, but they are the of 1776 shows the existing only remaining earthwork site in
West Swindon. Wick remains of interest due to the continuity it represents, the well preserved earthworks of a medieval settlement in association with the existing farm, a successor to nearly 1000 years of farming from this spot and all preserved in the physical manuscript of the ground, which many may now appreciate when walking along Wick Lane in the summer sunshine! What is to happen to Wick Farm? In the July Link we look at possible uses for the old farmhouse and the land which surrounds it.
VACANCY
KILN PARK WORKS People who use the footpath between Grange Park and the telephone exchange close to Oliver Tomkins school might be interested to know why temporary fencing has appeared along its entire length. The path skirts round the Kiln Park open space which is designated as a site of special archaeological significance because of the Roman kilns found beneath it. This means the park has to be left un-developed with play equipment or extensive planting. However, over the summer, work is taking place to smooth out the site before it is grass seeded in the autumn. The fencing has been put up to separate footpath users from the machinery used for the work.
rT
BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN
CARETAKER/CLEANER Required approximately 16 hours per week at the Shaw Village Community Centre, a temporary building recently installed at the Shaw Village Centre to serve the local residents needs until the purpose built centre is constructed. The rate of pay is £2.27 per hour. 20 days annual leave pro rata. The person appointed will be required to work various times during the morning, afternoon, and evening from Monday to Friday according to the booking schedules. Application forms and further details are available from the Personnel Officer, Thamesdown Borough Council, Civic Offices, Swindon, Wiltshire SNJ 2JH. Tel: 26161 ext. 3255, to be returned by 16th June. We welcome applications irrespective of race, sex or disability.
Gordon Cleverley & Partners OLD TOWN OFFICE: 101 VICTORIA ROAD, SWINDON Tel. 45351. Contact MIKE PIKE, JIM DUTCH, MALCOLM SMITH, JEAN THOMAS Nythe Superbly presented and maintained three bedroomed bungalow on oonijlar development. Entrance hell lounge' kitchen with oven and hob in' chided bathroom, three bedrooms, garage many extras £55,500
Ramleaze 2 bedroomed Rendell built semi providing ideal accommodation for first time buyer. Ent hail, kitchen, lounge/dining rm. bathroom, garage £41250. Woodhall Park Mcleanbuilt 3 bedroomed semi in guiet cul-de-sac position. Ent hall, lounge, dining rm, kitchen 3 beds., bathroom. Gas C.H. Garage/car parking space. £45,950.
Freshbrook Beautifully maintained and presented Hanrrick built corner sited detached house in rtuiet cul-de-sac Entrance hall, cloakroom, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility room three bedrooms, bathroom garage. gas central heating. full uPVC replacement double glazing, extensive gardens many extras £62950
Haydon Wick Bradley built 'Grovewood' style 3 bedroomed detached house Ent hall, clk rm. lounge, dining rm. kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower rm, 2 further generous bets., family bathroom. Garage Gas C H £67,950.
Malmesbury Two executive style detached houses having been recently constructed and offering good accommodation. Hall, cloakroom. lounge, dining room. kitchen, utility, four bedrooms, en-suite bathroom, family bathroom single garage, gas central heating, sealed unit double glazing, good sized plot, landscaped gardens. Prices' C75.000 and £87,500
Grange Park Attractive Unit built 4 bedroomed detached house with good sized gardens. Ent hall, clk rm, lounge. sep dining rm. kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower, 3 further beds., bathroom. Attached garage. Gas C.H.£73,500.
Shaw Very spacious and beautifully maintained detached house on popular development Entrance ball, cloakroom, lounge, dining room, conservatory/sun lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, four bedrooms, bathroom. garage, gas central heating. Many guality extras £79,995 Grange Park Superbly presented and maw tamed detached house offering good sized accommodation Entrance hall. lounge. kitchen/ diner, utility/cloakroom four bed,00ms. bathroom garage gas central heating Many extras C61.950 Westlea Truly immaculate modern detached family house having been greatly extended by the present owners. Entrance hall. cloakroom, lounge, separate dining room, luxury fitted kitchen, utility room five bedrooms, bathroom garage. gas central heating Marry aualitv extras Good sized gardens with -, asoec, to rear 154 550
Shaw Large Wimpey built 4 bed. roomed detached house haying been fitted to an extremely high standard. Entrance hall, cloakroom. lounge, dining room, kitchen, four bedrooms bathroom garage, gas central heating Marry eviray £65 550
Eldene Just available, spacious eslocal authority end terraced house, hall, fitted kitchen, large lounge/diner, three large bedrooms, bathroom with shower, gas c.h., full uPVC double glazing. £41,950.
Off Ferndale Road New instructions. 2 bed mid terr, large lounge with open aspect to kitchen/diner, utility/ store room, bathroom with shower, detached garage, gas fired radiator central heating. £37,950.
Wroughton Just available to sole agents. Well presented mid terraced house which has been improved and altered, spacious lounge/diner, well fitted kitchen, downstairs w.c., two large double bedrooms, bathroom with modern suite, detached garage, approx. 90' rear garden, full gas c,h,, recently re-roofed. Viewing essential. £42,950.
The Villages, Haydon Wick 3 bed semi detached, entrance porch, large lounge, fitted kitchen/diner, bathroom with coloured suite and shower, pleasant gardens, garage space, full gas fired radiator central heating, cavity wall insulation, carpets and curtains. £44,950.
Woolaton Close, Grange Park Sole agents. Impressive Bradley built semi detached house offering spacious lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, three good sized bedrooms, bathroom with coloured suite and shower, garage, spacious gardens, full gas rad c.h,, cavity wall insul, good decor, early inspection invited. £49,950.
Lawn - Windsor Road Well maintained 3 bedroomed detached house in premier location. Ent porch, ent hallway, lounge, dining rm, refitted kitchen, 3 beds, bathroom. Garage. Utility rm £77,500,
Lyncroft Superbly presented andmaintamed Wilcon built detached house on highly desirable development Entrance hall cloakroom, 'L' shaped lounge dining room. kitchen. 4 bedrooms, bathroom, garage, gas central heating, many guality, extras £65,500
GORSE HILL OFFICE 89 91 Cricklade Road. - Gorse Hill. Swindon Tel. 695533. Your personal contacts are: PETER FROST & LINDA KENNY
NEW TOWN OFFICE: 106 COMMERCIAL ROAD, SWINDON Tel. 644511. Contact STEVE COLE. DAVID PIKE, CHRIS BIRT or ADRIAN MEES
Bevil, Freshbrook 3 bed detached in quiet cul-desac, entrance hall, large lounge, separate dining room, beautifully fitted kitchen, bathroom with shower, garage, full gas fired radiator central heating, quality carpets, blinds and most curtains. £53,250.
Hook Secluded detached bungalow in 2 acre grounds. Rural setting. Hall, lounge/dining rm, fitted kitchen, bathroom, 3 beds, utility rm, workshop. shower rm Swimming pool Oble garage. GasC,H. Dble glazing' £115,000.
Caulfield Road, Gorse Hill Spacious mid terraced house offering entrance porch, entrance hell, large lounge, spacious kitchen/diner, three good sized bedrooms, bathroom, parking space, garage space to rear, full gas fired radiator central heating. £37,950. Oxford Road, S.S.M. Superior extended semi detached house, entrance porch, entrance hall, lounge, well fitted kitchen/diner. 2nd reception/family room, bathroom with shower, four beds, separate upstairs cloakroom, garage, large gardens to front and rear, all new windows and ceilings throughout, spacious family accommodation. £59,500.
Tattershall, West Swindon Wilcon built four bedroomed detached house with lounge, dining room, fully fitted kitchen, four bedrooms, bathroom with shower, garage, gas radiator central heating, cavity wall insulation. Sensibly priced for early sale. £59,950.
Strattone Village Impressive 'Cambridge' style 4 bedroomed detached house built by Messrs. Beazer Homes. Ent hall. clk rm, lounge, dining rm, kitchen, utility rm, master bedroom with en-suite shower. 3 further beds., family bathroom. Garage. Gas C.H. Plans have been passed for utility extension, £79,950.
Okus Road, Old Town Individually designed detached bungalow on large plot, built approx 18 years ago, entrance porch, entrance hall, lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, two dble bedrooms, garage, c.h,, early viewing a must Sole agents. £95,500.
OPEN SATURDAY AND SUNDAY TILL 4 p.m. WEEKDAY EVENINGS LATE TILL 8 p.m. ASK FOR DETAILS OF OUR COMPETITIVE COSTS
ASK STEVE LARGE
595533
for n
Structural Survey, Valuation or House Buyers' Report Undertaken at short notice)
THREE SWINDON OFFICES SELLING FOR YOU
SELLING HOUSES IS OUR BUSINESS LARGE MULTI-NATIONAL COMPANY RELOCATING STAFF TO SWINDON ALL PRICE RANGES. CALL ANY ONE OF OUR 3 OFFICES FOR FREE VALUATION * In all cases usual commission required *
THE HOUSE SOLD NAME
CL V RL Y pS CUT THE DELA V Whether buying or selling
gordon
cleverley
financial services
LIFE ASSURANCE, MORTGAGE & PENSION CONSULTANTS 106 Commercial Road, Swindon. & 89/91 Cricklade Road, Swindon.TeI:(0793) 617700
THE COMPLETE MORTGAGE SERVIC = You don't have to buy or sell your house through Gordon Cleverley & Partners to take advantage of our service. We can offer you the widest range of mortgages currently available in Swindon. * 100% MORTGAGES
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Call us NOW on SWINDON 617700 for a FREE discussion in complete confidence. Written quotations available on request
29
HOME & GARDEN
eil~
~.l
"THE CURTAIN LADY
The complete curtain making service from your own fabric. "From measuring to hanging" Call SwindOn 874688 for details.
Pce€ct .toøe
For a high standard of work with references available phone now fora FREE estimate.
Painter and Decorator Tel: Swindon 870515 The last in a series of photographs showing West Swindon'sspringfloral displays.
AN ALTERNATIVE TO D.I.Y.
Phillip Stone knows the market he wants to serve. It's here, in IMPROVING YOUR West Swindon, where he lives. After nine years in the painting OUTLOOK and decorating trade, much of it by Clare Beaton working for sub-contractors on The longer evenings of June building sites, Phillip has usually see me taking strolls launched himself as a selfaround West Swindon; up to employed decorator. Toothill Park and then maybe a With backing from the Enterloop over Shaw Ridge before prise Allowance Scheme he is returning home as dusk falls. leaving the uncertainty of siteThis gives great opportunity to work to take up the challenge of see what other people are growing serving the private householder. in their gardens and how suc- "Painting one brand new house cessfully! after another got very dull," said Observation suggests that most Phillip, "I prefer private work W. Swindonians want their because of the variety and the garden as somewhere to play personal contact with the cusabout in or sit about in; an out- tomer. There's much more satisdoors room. I suspect the tradi- faction in achieving a high stantional lay-out of lawns dotted dard of work. Going on my own with roses and one tree in a small is also a great challenge as well." bed really causes more work than After less than a month in any one not a keen gardener business Phillip has made good enjoys. contacts and work is lining up for Perhaps the following ideas him. He guarantees a quality may help you change your plot finish to his workmanship and into somewhere more relaxing: will stay on the job until the * Keep bushes and trees to beds customer is satisfied. His prices along the garden boundaries. are very reasonable and quotes These can replace fences! are given free of charge and withhedges. out obligation. Anybody who * Plan a simple lawn area clear does not have the time or or does of small beds, bushes and not particularly like painting and trees. This will make lawn decorating won't go wrong talking mowing quick and easy, with to Phillip. At last there is fewer edges to trim. an alternative to D.I.Y. Phillip * Do you need grass at all? Stone's telephone number is A combination of paving and 870515. gravel would not be overIF YOU ARE A SMALL expensive for a small garden. WEST SWINDON * Give plants room to grow; BUSINESS OFFERING A make your beds wider! This SERVICE TO THE reduces lawn/paving area and allows the plants to look their COMMUNITY AND WANT best. TO BE FEATURED IN THE The Link Centre Library has LINK, GET IN TOUCH WITH books with many more ideas on THE EDITOR. improving your garden outlook. Clothing Alterations and Repairs Bookkeeping service for To advertise in The Link Telephone 771534 Self—Employed Tel: 872096 Mrs
Reavl 4
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11 White, Freshbrook.
Heating Systems Ltd —Tel: 612060 Visit our showroom at the Orbit Centre (close to Mays Carpets).
GARDEN STONEWARE TROUGHS
• TUBS' ANIMALS • BIRD BATHS HALF BARRELS * URNS
From craftsman to you direct
Open: Saturday, Sunday and weekday evenings OAKLANDS ENTERPRISES Braydon, Nr. Wootton Bassett Telephone: 0285 861 564
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01872282
Yca4yq
Solid fuel, open fire and stoves. Boilers, cookers and roomheaters, also coal/gas effect firest and stoves.
Al HANDHIRE TOOL AND PLANT HIRE FOR PROFESSIONAL OR D.I.Y. CONCRETE EQUIPMENT DRILLS CONCRETE BREAKERS CUTTERS CAR MAINTENANCE GRINDERS GENERATORS DECORATING EQUIPMENT WOODWORK HEATERS LIGHTING TRANSFORMERS LADDERS GARDENING COMPACTORS DELIVERYAND COLLECTION SERVICE
handy go.J
EASY PARKING
MON-FRI. 8am 6pm; SAT. 8am 5pm Unit 8, Marlborough Road. Ind. Est. Wootton Bassett. Telephone: Swindon 854821 -
The garden to be proud of
-
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lawns
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873357
THE
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patios
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COMPLETE GARDEN
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30
'OUT &ABOUT
NOSTALGIA WEEKEND 6th AND 7th JUNE LYDIARD COUNTRY PARK The weekend of June 6th and 7th will bring together one of the largest collections of vintage steam engines, cars, motorcycles, tractors and stationary engines ever held in Swindon at Lydiard Country Park. Organised by Swindon Machinery Preservation Society, the show has taken 12 months to arrange. This is the third organised by the S.M.P.S. and this year it promises to be even bigger and better. Stars of the show will be the steam engines, some over 80 years old. Mr. Peter Watts will be showing his fair-ground organ 'Neptune' that he has just finished restoring. The star attraction in the area will be the 'Comets' motorcycle display team from Nottingham. All the riders are children aged eight to eighteen. Over fifty vintage cars will be on show along with the same number of farm tractors and motorcycles. One hundred stationary engines will be 'popping away' over the
ADULT EDUCATION NEWS by Rod Kensett Let's hope by the time you read this the Summer weather will have returned and those of you interested in Tennis - learning, match play or playing socially will have made contact and be making daytime, evening or weekend use of the excellent courts at Greendown. Details from Steve O'Sullivan on 874224 or me. weekend, some of our entries having travelled from as far away as Lincolnshire. In the craft section a demonstration of Honition Lace making will be given. Outside, on the show field, you will be able to watch a thatcher at work, and also wood turning. These are just a few of the crafts you will be able to see. Shire horses will be pulling old farm carts around the arena. Amond the rides available will be a flight in a helicopter or fly through the air on a 50 year old set of chair-o-planes. More down to the ground you could ride in an old farm cart. A great weekend is in store.
/
STEAM TRACTION ENGINES' VINTAGE TRACTORS' CARS' MOTORCYCLES' STATIONARY ENGINES' CHILDREN'S FAIRGROUND' GRAND PARADE' COUNTRY CRAFTS' FAIRGROUND ORGAN' STALLS' MODEL AIRCRAFT' HELICOPTER RIDES' COMETS MOTORCYCLE DISPLAY TEAM' WEWE THROWING' AND MUCH MUCH MORE!
SAT & SUN 6th & 7th JUNE 1987 At LYDIARD COUNTRY PARK, LYDIARD TREGOZE,SWINDON (M4 JUNCTION 16)
OPENING TIMES SUN 10.30am - 5.00pm.
SAT 12.00 noon- 5.00pm.
ADMISSION: ADULTS - ÂŁ1.00 CHILDREN AND CONCESSIONS - SOp FREE CAR PARK
Learning to Study
Enrolment Info
Are you considering going on an Enrolment in local AE courses exam course in September? If next September will be on at you haven't studied for many Greendown on a Saturday. You years or never did much but now will be able to enrol in any of wish you had, you may feel a our courses, however, as soon as little apprehensive about the details are published. Publication prospect. The 'Return to Learn is timed for July. Look out for - Study Skills' may be of great further news then. help to you. Starting early June Over to You for 2 hours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, over three Finally, we are very anxious at weeks it seeks to help you organ- Greendown to provide the sorts ise your thoughts, review the of activities - through Adult skills you'll need and, through Education courses or clubs - to practical activities, gives you the •interest you and your family. If opportunity to practise them. you have any ideas, professional Course tutor Erica Walton. skills to offer or hobbies that Further details on 871413. could be shared with others, or anyone else who has, let me Planning Local Action know. Some time ago I came across a Rod Kensett course being organised in the Adult and Community Tutor, West Country concerned with people meeting to discuss their Greendown Conununity School, Grange Park, West Swindon community, its development and Tel: 871413 (Ansaphone) making plans of action to meet local needs. It was very successful after a tricky start - as soon as those attending realised that they could change things and achieve something. Are you interested in anything similar? Strokes can hit anybody and they Let me know if you are. usually change the victim's life for ever. Whilst the intelligence is not damaged following a stroke, very often there is a loss of physical ability. The Chest, Heart and Stroke Association exists to provide support to people who have communication problems. They by Jean Kiddle need volunteers who can help Do you need help with any of the patients with reading, writing, following problems? Supplemen- numbers, telling the time, recogtary Benefits, Unemployment nition of money and many other Benefits, Housing problems, basic skills that are taken for Debts, Invalidity rights (attend- granted. The volunteers are asked ance allowance, mobility, invalid to offer one hour a week to help care etc.). Then the West the stroke patients re-build their Swindon Advice Centre is there confidence and their lives. To to help you. They hold advice find out more, Pam Bygraves on sessions at 15 Gainsborough 27394 can help with more inforWay, Freshbrook (West Swindon mation. Family Project) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, and at Centre in Toothill at the end of Toothill Community Centre every last year. There are a number of Tuesday morning from 10 a.m. other volunteers, at present doing to 12 noon. the course on Welfare Benefits The advice sessions are run at The Law Centre, who will also entirely by volunteers, trained by be able to offer their help at the Thamesdown Law Centre, and Advice Centre at some date in they are always ready and willing the near future. to offer their help to anyone The advice is given in the strictwho needs it. Roy Williams, of est confidence, and completely Freshbrook, has been with the free of charge, so, if you are Advice Centre since it first feeling in a muddle over DHSS opened in Gainsborough Way problems, Debts, Housing etc., over two years ago. He is helped then just pop in to any advice by Maria Rooney, also of Fresh- session, or an appointment can brook, and Jean Kiddie, who be made by telephoning the lives in Toothill, and who organ- Family Project on 871303 during ised the opening of an Advice office hours.
HELPING STROKE VICTIMS
WEST SWINDON ADVICE CENTRE
THE REFERENCE PAGE 3.1 EXCURSIONS
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YOUR LOCAL COUNCILLORS Toothill, Westlea & Shaw Thamesdown Borough Council Tony Free, Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Tel: 619834. Ricky Midwinter, 4 Anglesey Close, Westlea. Tel: 873537. Peter Stoddart, 9 Fairlawn, Liden. Tel: 692812. Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, I The Holbeins, Freshbrook. Tel: 875129. Freshbrook & Grange Park Thamesdown Borough Council Simon Cordon, 89a Victoria Road, Swindon. Tel: 47626. Martin Leighfield, 29 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 692305. Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317. Wiltshire County Council Simon Cordon as above.
& TOURS
Adult Child Thursday 4th June Swanage £4.50 £3.50 Sunday 7th June Lynton & Lynmouth £4.50 £3.50 Wednesday 10th June Stratford upon Avon & Warwick £3.50 £2.50 Sunday 21st June Cardiff or Barry Island £4.00 £3.00 Wednesday 24th June Hampton Court & Kew Gardens £4.00 £3.00 Details of all June excursions are in our leaflet-out now! Enquiries and bookings: Fleming Way Kiosk, near Primarktel: 615399.
Thamesdown Transport 7/r
ENQUIRIES & BOOKINGS: -FLEMING WAY KIOSK, NEAR PRIMARK, tel. 615399 -
HILLIER FUNERAL SERVICE LTD
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INFORMATION FOR NEW ARRIVALS Arrivals Officer: Pam Pixton, Tel: 695317. Newcomers Coffee Morning: Tuesday 10-11 .30am in the Community Suite, Link Centre. LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES Doctors Doctors: Ketkar, Flowers, Matheson, Nixon, Holdon, Chippendale, Swinyard, Ashington Way Surgery, Ashington. Tel: 614840. Doctor G Ready, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894. Doctor Kandiah, 1 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253. Heath Visitor Team, 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 642133/610459. Baby Clinics Mon 2-4pm 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Wed 2-4pm Greendown School, Grange Park. Thurs 2-4pm Freshbrook Community Centre. Fri 2-4pm Upper Shaw Farm, Shaw Ridge. Family Planning: Free clinic on 1st & 3rd Wednesday of month 6-8pm 5 Deerhurst Way. No appointment necessary. Pharmacies Coopers, West Swindon Centre Open 8am-8pm Mon-Sat. Tel: 872033. Ashington Way Pharmacy Open 8.30am-6pm Mon-Fri. Sat 8.30am-12 noon. Sun- 11.30am-12.30pm. Tel: 616840. Dentists Brendan Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 873044. Mrs Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340. Hearing Aid Practitioners Wiltshire Hearing Services. Tel: 873067.
252 Whitworth Road Swindon Tel: 22145
55 Victoria Road Swindon Tel: 22797
PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24-hour personal service throughout the year A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED
ASHINGTON WAY PHARMACY WESTLEA
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WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINT Welfare Benefits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook on Mon 1-3pm, Wed & Fri l0am-12 noon. Toothill Community Centre, Tuesday 10am- 12 noon. Housing A Housing Advice Service is available to tenants of houses rented from Thamesdown Borough Council. Mike Weston is available to give information and advice every Tuesday 2pm-4.30pm at Toothill Community Centre. Tenants should note that it is not possible to pay rent at the advice sessions. THE CHURCH Anglican -Methodist U. R.C. -Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221. Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Tel: 694157. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel: 874400. -
TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING: 771534 or 872282
Stockists of Nelsons Homeopathic Remedies Antica Erboristeria Products New World Cassettes Relaxation & Learning Tapes Mon Fri 8.30 6pmSat 8.30 12 Sun 11.30- 12.30 Tel. Sw. 616840 -
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Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TEL. 870055 for House Sales and Purchases and all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates
WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon, Telephone 26601
_JTITCOMBE GARAGE LTD. • • • • • • •
WE ARE WEST SWINDON'S LOCAL GARAGE WHO SPECIALISE IN A NUMBER OF SERVICES INCLUDING: 24hr Breakdown and Recovery Servicing and Repairs MOT's While You Wait -7 Days a Week Accident Repairs Car Body Spraying Mini Bus and Car Hire Parts and Accessories Shop Open 7 Days a Week WESTMEAD DRIVE WESTLEA SWINDON TEL: (0793) 641643
ALL ESTIMATES FREE CALL US NOW AT
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Over 100 top quality used cars all part exchanges welcome 1-2 year Gemini warranties Best selection of hatchbacks, saloons, estates, sports. Low deposit/no deposit finance on selected vehicles subject to status Gemini more money for your car
Please come along and talk to US, we want to become your garage. We want to become the best, the most reliable we want you to have the most professional service from us -
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Evenings: Contact Steve Jones. home phone number: Malmesbury 6182 Open 7 Days (Sun. Viewing Only)