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The 3rd Under Fives Festival The full programme on page 10.

No. 99 .June 1990 .Circulation 10,500

Giant cake for birthday party Maywas the month of celebrations at Oliver Tomkins School with both the infant and juniors taking part in tenth anniversary events. The junior school held an all day party of fun and games on a scorching day, with each class taking turns ata variety of sporting games around the playing field. By contrast the infants had to hold their birthday picnic in the school hall because of rain. Each child had a stir of a class cake which were put together with all the others to make a big one which was iced by parent Rachel

We meet the men behind The Chinese Experience on page 20.

Well done Swindon Town F.C.

Leighfield of Freshbrook. Ten candles were blown out by nine pupils representing each class and following the party the children and teachers joined hands to surround the school. The ten year celebrations were the subject of studies for the first part of the school term with each class looking at a different theme. Displays around the school included a collection of photographs taken when the school was being built and a collage of cutout pictures of each child around the cake.

Below: Striving fora national curriculum maths attainment target, headteacher Margaret Williams starts to cut the giant birthday cake so that all 254 children and 9 teachers receive a piece. Keeping a close watch, Joseph Masi, Jamie Griffiths, Corin Burt, Faye Davidson, Frances Quelch, James McCarthy, Christoper Howells, Jaclyn Cady and Bilal Watson

Signing the ball Link readers can win, Town players Dave Hockaday, Cohn Colderwood, Ross McLaren, John Cornwall, Tom Jones, Alan McLoughlin. A crowd of well wishers gathered on 23 May at the West Swindon Centre to see eight players from Swindon Town receive lOOlb of rump steak on behalf of the whole Dewhurst The Butcher team, presented by Dewhurst The at the West Swindon Butcher. Centre are offering two Manager Tony Bedwell, an fantastic prizes in a ardent Swindon supporter from charity draw A Sparcells, said the presentation football signed by all was a 'thank you' to the players the players and the for their support of his shop. chance for a lucky 'Several of the lads live in West youngster to lead the Swindon and most of the team shop here. They've been good to team out as mascot at us over the last five years and we a Division I game next thought we would mark their season. Details in the great achievements this year. July Link Magazine. The players spent an hour afterwards signing footballs Congratulations on a donated to the public by great win at iVcmlilcy Dewhurst.

Exclusive to Link readers

wri afff,ia Opening ceremony by councillors and officials at 11am Gom. =11ftwomp =NSA owiijoy *ho hustle ev.d bustle q of e reel opeo sir mericet. sdsy sm - 4pm lh.resf*.r .u,ery

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People with disabilities are finding it easier to discover Thamesdown's country parks, thanks to a newly invented wheelchair aid commissioned by Thamesdown Council. The Thamesdown Easirider was launched at Lydiard Park on 2 May where it was put through its paces over rough ground by people in wheelchairs. The Easirider is designed so that wheelchairs can be rolled on and locked safely onto a flat floor. Once aboard, the wheelchair user drives the Easirider using a control lever, which can also be operated by an attendant walking alongside if the person is too disabled. The battery is expected to last up to eight hours between charges, and with its large drive wheels, the Easirider will take users to wilder areas in parks. Tony Mayer, then Chair of the Council's Arts and Recreation Committee, said that his committee wanted everybody to enjoy the council's facilities. "We're committed to equality of access. Below: Ken Shakes perere tries out the Easirider with Recreation Manager Graham Swatton and Norris KiddIe from Toothill, left, and Tony Mayer.

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The Link Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793

But at the same time we do not want to tarmac every footpath as this would loose the essence of what a country park should be. In Thamesdown, we prefer to see problems as opportunities. Commissioning the Easirider has been a challenge to meeting our obligations towards people with disabilities. "We have worked in partnership with a local company to develop the Easirider and we will be selling them to other authorities and organisations. This will earn money for more facilities to help the disabled." Phillip Lewis, chairman of the British Sports Association for the Disabled, officially unveiled the Easirider and commended the council for helping disabled people participate in community life.

Election results The elections on 3 May for two councillors to represent the West Swindon wards on Thamesdown Council saw the Labour Party holding onto their places without a great deal of difficulty. In the Toothill ward, which takes in Westlea, Shaw and Sparcells, sitting councillor Tony Free was reelected with 2,089 votes against Rosemarie Saunders (Conservative) who received 1,234 and Marilyn Harrison (Green) with 481. 36.27% of the voters turned out. InFreshbrook, including Grange Park, Sue Bates retained the seat formerly held by Martin Leighfield with 1,125 seats. Matthew Pearce (SDP) had 981 votes, Freda Troughton (Conservative) 541 and Julie Deacon (Green) 155. The turn out was 42.01%. "The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, In fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre In 1984. The magazine Is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Contents 3 Front Piece 4 Toothill 5 Freshbrook & Grange Park I Apple Macintosh design, Westlea 6 layout and lasersetting by 7 Shaw Keystrokes Electronic Design 8 At Your Library Printed by Western Webb, Bristol 11 For Women 13 At Your Library 12 Day in the Life Published monthly. 13 Education Matters Copy date for the 14-15 Recreation & Link Centre 16-17 The Village Inn, Shaw July edition: 18-19 Arts Scene 15th of June. 20 The Chinese Experience The July edition will be 21-27 News & Views 28 Home & Garden published on 25 June. 39-30 Letters & Small Ads.

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Meet your (not so) new CDO Afterworking in the area for two years on ajob share basis with Roger Ogle who left Thamesdown Borough Council to publish The Link full time, Lawrence Yeoman tookon the post of Community Development Officer in February. We've not published a profile of Laurence (picture right) before, so here's a formal introduction. Laurence is no stranger to moved on to work for the Childrens Swindon, having worked in Society as Project Leader at the different community based projects Walcot Centre. In 1988 he went to for the last 11 years. "I came to work with Community Developwork for the Swindon Youth Project ment at the Borough Council, first in 1979 never really expecting to on a temporary basis in the East of stay very long in the area," said Swindon for 6 months before Laurence. "1 met a lot of people I coming over to the West at the end really liked and made a lot of of 1988. He lives on the north side of friends; I've been here ever since." After setting up a youth Swindon. He is married with 4 counselling and information children, Alex, 11; Matthew, 10; service in the town centre and Joanna, 8 and Chloe, 4. Laurence believes there's still a working with groups of young people from all over town, he lot to be done in West Swindon. "If I have discovered anything in all the years I have worked with people it's that everyone has the ability to change, both themselves and their circumstances. There is plenty that we can all do to improve things for each other. The word development implies change and I feel privileged to be involved in a line of work which gives me the opportunity to An exhibition of the work of some witness this process. "West Swindon is an exciting of the voluntary organisations in Thamesdown is to be held in the place to work because it is new. Ike Gradwell Community Suite at People have moved here frommany the Link Centre on Thursday 14 different parts of the country; so and Friday 15 June. It will be open creating a community which offers on Thursday from 1.00p.m. until something to meet the needs and 6.00p.m. and on Friday from wishes of all the population is areal challenge. Whether this is support 1000a.m. until 400p.m. Over 50 voluntary organisations through difficult times, the will be putting on displays to opportunity to celebrate together, describe the work they do. A few setting up some kind of community examples of the groups taking part project or the chance to make new include Age Concern Thames- friends and learn new skills - the down, Alcohol Advisory Centre, possibilities are here. It really is up Hard of Hearing Club, Stroke to us all to make the area a warm, Support Group, Centre for Disabled caring, exciting and friendly place Living, British Trust for to live. I do believe that a lot can be Conservation Volunteers, Drug- achieved if people can get together and work with each other." link, and many more. There are hundreds of voluntary Laurence can be contacted organisations actively working for through the Civic Offices on the good of the Thamesdown Swindon 526161 ext. 4830. community. Why not make a visit •Toothill's Neighbourhood worker to the Link Centre on 14 or 15 June Lucie Hartley is leaving the to look more closely at what some Community Development west of them do - you may find team. Next month we talk to her about her work in the area. something of interest to YOU.

Voluntary bodies in big exhibition at Link Centre

Royal Mail winners The winners of our competition in association with Royal Mail published in the April edition are: J. Dugan, Castle Dore; R. Harding, Newark Cl; P. Harrison, Lineacre Cl; D. Corbyn, Tattershall; W. Cole, Lamora Cl.; C. Stollery, Baird Cl.; D. Moss, The Bramptons; J. Willougby, Common Platt; S. Clark, Mulcaster Ave.; R. Williams, Covingham; F. Harrion, Rycote Cl.; L. Kelly, Uxbridge Rd.; S. Cracknell, Chudleigh; K. MacKenzie, Thorn-ford Dr; T. Wescott, Stancombe Pk; J. Garraway, Longstock Ct; C. Maxwell, Birdcombe Rd; L. Reynolds, Bosham Cl; R. Manook, Yarmouth Cl; A. Cordas, Markenfield

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Helping hands Nearly £600 has been raised for elderly people at Toothill School and more has yet to be collected. 140 pupils took part in a Help the Aged Schools Education Programme during April and May. Helen Willis Fleming visited the school to talk about making old age a happier time of life. The children were then able to raise money for the charity by colouring in a special form or playing Hector Hound's Nature Trail game. Some of the fundraisers with Helen Willis Fleming and Help the Aged's schools mascot Hector, 1. to r. front Jenny Spencer, Zoe Kingman, Jody Blakey, Adam Vince. Standing, Becky Lomas, Layton Day, Carrie Waters, Mark Keepance, Michelle Philo, Ruth Barratt , Kate Reed.

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A good time had by all A low cost holiday run by the Thamesdown Holiday Club for people who would not normally be able to go away has been hailed a great success by a local councillor. Toothill councillor Ricky Midwinter went following a long illness said the week away at a holiday camp in Cornwall for 400 people, including 150 from West Swindon, was very enjoyable. "The weather was brilliant for most of the time, the facilities excellent and the trips to the coast enjoyble. Paul Ryan, the play development officer, did an excellent job organising activities for children; they didn't have a moment to themselves. "It was good to see people from different parts of Thamesdown coming together and enjoying themselves. There was tremendous 'All set to go community spirit." from Toothill Village Centre

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Following the success of the football team at Toothill School in attracting sponsorship, the netball team were not to be outdone and went out to get some help. New firm in town Motorola, with a production centre at Blagrove, came up with a cheque for £100 which has kitted the girls out in smart light green shirts and dark green skirts, plus position bibs. The team is coached by teacher Claire Burchall. Pictured left to right: Kirsten Arthur, Kelly James, Sarah Garrett, Claire Chaplin, Danielle Bathe, Carrie-Ann Walters, Karen Aucott, Ruth Barrett

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Annual Meeting for residents' group The Freshbrook Village Group residents'organisation holds its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 20 June, 8p.m. in the small hail at Freshbrook Community Centre. All residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park are members of the FVG and are invited to the annual meeting. The FVG is responsible for managing the community centre and taking up problems on behalf the people in Freshbrook.

Balloon turns up for class The unexpected arrival of a hot air balloon at National Power on the Windmill Hill Business Park prompted a quick change in the schoolday atWindmill Hill School. Three classes had been studying balloons and a short walk over to the business park was an ideal way of seeing one close up. Ninety children took their pencils, crayons and paper with them and sketched the giant inflatable tethered to the ground,whilstNationalPower staff were given short rides in theballoon basket. Pictured left: Linval Nicholson, Rekha Kumar and Neil Gatheram show their drawings to balloon pilot Sean Byrne

Winning team looks for sponsors Freshbrook School's boys football team came out on top of in a West Swindon primary school's six side tournament played at the Link Centre on 17 May. Out of the six games played, they won three, drew the rest, and only conceded one goal. Steven Shaw of TurnhamGreen was top scorer with 5 goals to his credit. With a big win behind them, the team is looking for a sponsor who will help them out with a kit. Business people who can help should contact the school. Cup final celebrations, rear right to left Craig Hat herall , Glyn Matthews, Blair Matthews, Dan John (captain), front Steven Shaw, Mark Cooper, Paul Wojciak, Wayne McKenzie. Neil Bridges wasn't available

Friends of Freshbrook School

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Grange Park School starts at last After a two year delay, building work on a primary school to serve Grange Park is about to start. Originally proposed by Wiltshire County Council for a site at the end of King Henry Drive, until residents' protests produced a change of mind, the school will be built on the site of The Grange Rectory, off Hay Lane. The delay in making a start has been caused by the negotiations over land swapping between site owners English China Clay and the County Council. The new school should be ready for opening in September 1991. Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton, who has campaigned alongside residents with regard to the siting of the school and the inadequacy of its proposed size, said he was very pleased to see building works start. "After what seems like an eternity, it's good to see the project underway. I'm sure many residents were bitterly disappointed that the County Council didn't keep their promise to open the school in 1989 or the revised date of September 1990. It has meant a lot of extra journeys for many parents and children. But I'm pleased that constant nagging by residents has got this project off the ground."

Footballers needed for Saturday Club An initial 8 week experiment to provide Saturday morning activities for children is going to be extend through the summer. Named FACES - Freshbrook Adventure Club Every Saturday the club caters for 6 to 12 year olds. Up to 40 youngsters take part in games, arts and crafts and work with video cameras. The sessions are supervised by volunteer parents and a footballer is desperately needed to run kickabout sessions. Print makers with Greendown art teacher Sharon Deacon left, Emma Davey, Tunde Ojo, Sarah Cooksen, Darah Davis and Donna Chapman

The new school is intended to serve parts of Grange Park and will reduce pressure at both the overcrowded Freshbrook and Oliver Tomkins School sites. Between them they have around 20 mobile classrooms. A 300 name petition signed by Grange Park residents last year calling for the school to be larger has been ignored by the County Council. There are fears that mobiles' will still be present at existing schools for many years. *New Head settles in - page 13

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6 Westlea School Wild West Bonna Saturday 30 June 2pm - 4pm featuring The Dixie Rebels Pony Rides, Archery, Raffle, Tombola, Lucky Programme, Auction, Western Headress Competition

WESTLEA One last push for Play and education together £2,000 Prizes worth £250 wilibe won when a raffle aimed at raising cash for the special needs unit at Westlea School is drawn in early July. The closing date for the raffle, sponsored by West Swindon based insurance brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates, is 21 June. However tickets will be on sale at the Westlea School Wild West Day on Saturday 30 June. If all tickets are sold £2,000 will be have been raised to buy special equipment and materials for children with learning difficulties.

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A joint effort from left to right tanding Brenda Moody, Jan Kilby, Doreen Connor, Carol Belson, Sue Russell, Susan Care, Chris Woodward. Front, Suzannah Fisher, Alison Barrett, Rebecca Clifforde, Jo Collins, Sarah Rodwell

A new library of educational materials has opened for parents and young children in Westlea. Based in the PATCH room at Westlea School, the library allows the educational opportunities created in the room to be extended into the home environment. A group of parents have been working over the last year making play packs which can be taken home. So far fifty have been made and a further 50 are planned. Each play pack is based on a theme to stimulate a child's imagination and encourage discussion between parent and child. Subjects like colours, numbers, words, animals, objects of interest are all included. The packs contains a variety of items such as a book, toys, crayons, paper, things to count and also a suggestion card which gives parents idea of how to use the contents. Headteacher Neil Griffiths who has set up the PATCH room to create better links between parents, teachers and pre-school children described the play packs as invaluable in helping parents prepare their children for school. "Some children come into school with limited pre-school experience, and poor language development. The room has a range of high quality, expensive equipment which children don't often have access to. "The mums have put so much time and care into making the play packs. They've done a magnificent job and so have the mums who looked after the children whilst the others could work on the packs. "The packs offer so many rich experiences which parents can build upon with their children to stimulate language, manipulative, creative, mathematical and social skills." None of the fifteen parents who have worked together were willing to be quoted as all had contributed equally to the project. "Many of us

have re-discovered or developed skills we didn't know we had," said one. "Now the library is open, we're startingon the next fifty packs and keeping the ones available for loan up together." The Play Pack Library is open in thePATCH roomat Westlea School on Friday afternoons from2.15p.m. to 330p.m.

Safe play area wanted Westlea Playgroup is looking forward to the day when it has a clean and safe outside play area. The group was promised a rubberised safety surface in the year starting April 1989. So supervisor Barbara Frost was very surprised when the play area was relayed with black tar by Thamesdown Council. "I obviously protested but was told that the job was well done. As soon as we had warm weather in March our shoes and toys started sinking into it and children were getting tar on their clothes. " said Barbara. "The playgroup committee wrote several letters to the council and in the end had to contact a local councillor. Now we're told that the safety surface will be laid in a few weeks time." Barbara Frost shows off the ruts in thei play area with Scott Franklyn and Emma Collins

SHAW George Tweed Gardens opened Shaw's new elderly person's group dwelling was formally given a name on 23 May. Almost to the day a year after he died, former Toothill and Freshbrook resident George Tweed was honoured when his widow Mrs Anne Tweed unveiled a plaque in his memory at the Gardens. In a short speech, Mrs Tweed touched on historical information Anne and George Tweed pictured at West Swindon's 10th year celebrations in 1986

which many of the residents at the Gardens would have recognised. She described her surprise when first asked if George's name could be used. "He would never have expected such an honour, but he was a man who always believed in social justice and helping the disadvantaged." George was a trade union organiser before the war and was Mrs Tweed with Thamesdown Mayor Derique Montaut in May

conscripted to work in the coal mines in 1942. Afterwards he worked as a newspaper researcher and did a great deal of voluntary work for the Workers' Education Association. On retiring toToothill in 1978 Anne and George started the Good Companions Club and campaigned for a community centre tobebuilt. They later moved to Elsie Hazel Court Group Dwelling in Freshbrook. George died at the age of 83. George Tweed Gardens consists of 45 self-contained one bedroom flats and 8 two bedroom flats.

Shaw Residents' Association Next meeting Monday 4 June 7.45pm Shaw Church Shaw Village Centre All residents welcome

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Debbie Griffiths reports on a busy month

Music helps Simon on his way

Simon Bholah with someof the musicians who played for him A young man suffering from spina bifida will soon be able to drive a car thanks to generous musicians and customers at the Nine Elms pub in Shaw. Pub customers havebeen turning out their pockets into a swear box for some weeks in order to buy a special supportive driving seat and harness for Simon Bholah from Jersey Park, Shaw. When a musical local dropped an expletive he offered to organise a fund raising jam session which brought bands Mark 4 Plus 1, Tanglewood, Past Time and Willy Kerrigan together on 16 May. Altogether £141 was raised. When added to the £300 donated by theLions Club, Simon only needs a further £70 to get him on the road. The pub will be organising another event to help him achieve his goal.

In May we entered a farmers competition and came 6th out of 45 entries. A group of us also visited St Ivels, Wootton Bassett. The first dairy was built in 1913. St Ivels now employs 650 people on site. Approximately 330 farmers supply 100,000 litres of milk per day to the dairy. If we have a hot summer milk production suffers, as less rain means less grass to eat. Production drops by 37%. For us less greenfingered mortals it's a release from the dreaded weekly mow, but think of the poor old cows. Last night we attended a Brazilian Evening organised by County W.I. There is approximately 7 million square kilometres of rain forest of which 5 million are in Brazil. This destruction is mainly by fire. The quantity of carbon dioxide emitted yearly from the fires is the same as from burning fossil fuels for the whole of Europe in a year. The rate of destruction is about the size of a football pitch every 3 seconds!! But don't panic. 90% of the forests are still left. So it's very much worth fighting for. Our next meeting is 18 June, 7.30p.m. at the Shaw Community Centre (the portacabin by the doctor's surgery). We're having a demonstration and talk on herbs in New cookery, yum, yum. members/guests very welcome. Cost SOp Did you know that brazil nuts come from one giant brazil nut pod which produces dozens of brazil nuts? Join Shaw WI and learn all these interesting facts.

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8 Coffee Morning for coach trip

AT YOUR LIBRARY What else do we offer? Newly appointed librarian Carolyn Kennedy describes services for those with a disability

Members of Toothill Lunch Club Hot off the press is the news that I are busily raising money for acoach have been appointed as permanent trip to Lyme Regis at the end of the librarian, West Swindon Library. month. They are holding a Coffee It is pleasing to be settled and out of Morning and Bring & Buy in June. the state of 'limbo' I found myself It takes place on Friday 8 June, in. This month I am going to write from 9a.m. to 12 noon in Toothill Community Centre. Friends and about the services we offer to those who because of a disability may supporters are invited to attend. St Peter's R.C. Church, Carronbridge Road, Westlea

Saturday 16 June 2.00p.m. Fete to be opened by BBC Weatherman Bernard Davey. Attractions to include display by Emlyns Majorettes, Bouncy Castle, many stalls, big prize draw.

not be aware that there is something at the library for them. One of the services we have offered for a good many years is our collection of LARGE PRINT books. Designed for those who find ordinary print too small to read. In this collection we offer a range of novels, which include romances, crime, historical and adventure stories. There is also a smaller range of non-fiction titles and popular biography. The collection at West Swindon is kept to the right of the enquiry desk and of course if a particular title you require is not there we are always happy to check the computer catalogue.

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Only a short step away from the Large Print books we have our collection of story cassettes recordings of books on tape often read by distinguished actors and celebrities. This is a very popular section of the stock and is used readily by those who have poor eyesight and are unable to read large print. Loan of spoken word cassettes is free and the cassettes are playable on ordinary players. In addition to this, those suf fering from poor sight may be eligible for the Talking Book Service operated by the British Talking Book Service for the Blind. Application forms for membership to this service are available at the library. Members receive a special talking book machine and a fortnightly supply of talking books. West Swindon Library is a very easy building to use if you are confined to a wheelchair. The library is on one level only and access routes to the main Link entrance doors are easily approached either from the flat ora long sloping ramp. Once in the library the area between the bookshelves is spacious allowing easy maneuverability and the counter and enquiry desk are at wheelchair height. A well kept secret is that the library has a disabled toilet. Our exhibition for June is a touring display of portraits of the BrontĂŤ family. Of special interest is a reproduction of the family portrait that Brumwell BrontĂŤ painted which was assumed to be of the three sisters, but when an infra-red photograph was taken the portrait revealed Brumwell under the surface paint. Between 12 June and 3 July we shall also be exhibiting an iced model of the Iron Duke which was made by the Swindon Sugar Craft Guild. The Iron Duke was entered fora county competition earlier this year and was awarded first prize. So it is certainly well worth a look. We hope all West Swindon under-fives will be joining in the 'Have-a-Go Day on 26 June. The library will be in on all the fun with eight story sessions at half hour intervals throughout the day. Check for times when you register on the day. We hope to see you! Congratulations to the prize winners of the Easter Colour-in competition. Winner for the 7 and under class was 5 year old Hannah Macleod of Lynehamand the and over class winner was Victoria Cala s aged 12 ofWestlea. Of course even if you didn't win we hope you spotted your entry in the junior library

DmBL --- 8 Associates

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INSURANCE SERVICES Have you received, or are you to expecting to receive, a letter informing you of an increase in your monthly mortgage payments? If so, you are not alone. Thousands of people are having to pay an increased amount to their mortgage lenders due to the once-yearly change in payment levels, taking the interest rate increases in 1989 into account. We can help you with free advice and quotations regarding our major link-up with one of the four largest Building Societies in the U.K. They operate a low-start scheme for mortgages and remortgages where, via ourselves, the income multiples are higher than normal. THIS IS NOT A DEFERRED INTEREST 'ROLL-UP SCHEME WHERE YOU END UP OWING MORE MONEY THAN YOU STARTED WITH! With this Building Society loan you could use your equity to subsidise your payments in the early years. Using £5,000 of your equity you would be able to save £229 per month in the first year, e.g. on a mortgage of £45,000 at 14.5% (variable rate), you could reduce your monthly payment to £284.37 (interest only), subject to status. A saving of £169 per month. This could take away any financial worries enabling you to look forward to a more stable way of life. There are no hidden clauses and you may like to find out how much you could save. If so, please ring either of the numbers below.

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Swindon 873369 (2 lines) or 827725. We also cater for all other types of insurance including Pensions, Savings, Motor, Commercial and Household policies. Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Group, member of a uti and I.M.R.0. REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

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FOR WOMEN — C O 0 What childcare do YOU need? by Roger Ogle Women today are under greater kind of child care women actually pressure than ever before. Not only want to see provided. Is it workplace nurseries, or do they continue to be primarily responsible for bringingup children neighbourhood based nurseries, and holding the 'family unit' more childminders, flexible (however you choose to define it) working hours, term-time jobs, day together, they are now being called nannies? I have been commissioned by back to the workplace with some the Swindon Branch of the Institute desperation by employers. The 'demographic time bomb' of Personal Managers to find out which has been ticking away since what women want from women the birthrate started to decline themselves. The project lasts three fifteen years ago is now exploding. months so I have to talk to as many This means fewer school leavers people as possible in a short time. Gathering the views from Link entering the workplace and Magazine readers is one starting shortages of people to fill jobs. So women have, once again, been point. I would welcome any recognised as the enormous pool of assistance you can provide. Please ability, skill and talent that has to be call me on 872282. attracted into the workforce. There are also a range of reasons why Tootlea Brook WI women should or will want to return to work after having child ran. Tootleabrook members recently Pursuing a career is one, heard about this years resolutions, contributing to the mortgage and which were a) changing the WI paying the poll tax are others. constitution after 75 years, b) the However a mother is caught in use of B.S.T protein hormone, which the middle of conflicting pressures. is used to increase milk production, 'Come back to work, we need you' c) preservation of Antarctica from say employers. pollution. 'Yes I would like to start working On a lighter note we were shown again,' she says, 'butl have children. holiday slides on Africa, by Mr What child care is available which Cohn Maisey. Our next meeting gives me confidence that my will take place on l8 July, atToothill children will be well looked after?' Community Room 730p.m. There And there's the problem. Child will be a film and talk on care provision for the working 'Caledonian pipeline'. Visitors mother is very under developed in always welcome. For furtherdetails Swindon and nobody knows what contact Karen Ryman on 695499.

Distinctive looks on your windows With the return of summer comes theurgeto redecorate and generally brighten up our homes. The curtains that have been drawn against the dark and cold all winter can look sad and dingy in the sunlight. Denise's Drapes is a local company with designs on your windows! Denise Jones of Sparcells is an experienced curtain maker who specialises in made-to-measure Festoon and Austrian blinds. Denise started by making blinds for herself and was so inundated with orders from friends that she set up her own business. Denise's service begins with a home visit to take really accurate measurements and give the customer an estimate for the amount of material required. Customers purchase their own fabric which Denise makes up with matching tie-backs and valances as required. Denise prides herself on the quality of the finish and her attention to detail. The service is completed by another home visit to hang the finished drapes. Denise also offers a service to customers who have bought ready

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WESTERN SLIMMING SERVICE •FAST WEIGHT LOSS using medication and made Festoon and Austrian blinds. "There's a real art to hanging and draping the blinds and it is so easy to get it wrong" Denise says. For a small fee she will come and hang or re-ha ng your blinds or replace worn strings. Denise's charges are very competitive and if the blinds in her own home are anything to go by there will be a lot of beautiful windows in West Swindon! You can contact Denise on 873043.

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Every Friday 5,30pm 7.30pm & Saturday 4pm 6pm at The Small Meeting Room Ike Gradwell Community Suite Link Centre Just call in, or for more 1' information, please telephone 0831 118907 Home visits can be arranged -

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It's a blooming good life If you are up and about at 6.30a.m. you may see a white Fiat Uno speeding (within the limits we're assured) from West Swindon to Westcott Place which is where you will find 'Blooms the distinctive florist! If you do, then you'll know it's Shirley Parrott of Eastleaze, resident of West Swindon and florist to Royalty.

Car Boot Sale Link Centre coach park Saturday 2 June, lOam Boots £4 and £5 from Chris on 617620 or Morag on 875148 Proceeds to Westlea Guides

WRIGHT PLANNING

SERVICES

6.00a.m. The alarm goes. After breakfast with my husband I am off to the shop where hopefully a flower whole-saler will be waiting outside four mornings a week. I am his first call. The days of gettingup at4.00a.m. and going to market have gone. I use two wholesalers, one local who have a branch at New Covent Garden and a 'Flying Dutchman'. After buying I put the kettle on for a cup of tea or coffee and then set about conditioning the flowers. All the flowers are dry since leaving the growers. They come fmm many countries: Holland, Israel, Guernsey and Cambodia as well as England.

to wire each flower, we now use an oasis which is pre-soaked and the flowers arranged. Floristry has also adapted to the 90's with modern methods of communication. Now a lot of our customers use the fax as well as the telephone. At the beginning of the week we deal with all our contract work. This can be for hotels, offices and garages. Today, a professional florist must be able to deal with a variety of work. We do have our quiet days (occasionally) when we are able to do basic preparations for the busy occasions like Valentines Day, Mothers Day and Christmas. At these busy times we

715a.m. The first member of staff arrives, Louise, who is also a fully qualified florist. We discuss the work schedule for the day and make up the orders that must be finished before our van driver arrives at 830a.m. and the phone or fax start working. Wealso open the shop at8.30a.m. when Kirsty our third member of staff arrives; she has just taken her City and Guilds at Lackam College near Chippenham. We put the kettle on again (florists work on cups of tea) and perhaps sit down. But there goes the phone and the shop door. Kirsty to the phone, Louise and myself into the shop. Whilea florist must be artistic she must also be able to change moods instantly as it would not be unusual to have one customer discussing a funeral tribute and followed by another discussing a wedding. Both require different approaches. After being a florist for 28 years I have seen it, like most industries, change drastically. For example from making funeral tributes on a wire frame and moss, and having

would expect to be at the shop at 4.30a.m. to cope with the extra work load. In June we have been asked to decorate a room at Avebury Manor which my two assistants and I are looking forward to. The special occasions make up for the odd awkward customer. I am always thinking of ways to improve our service and professionalism to our customer. I have had the honour and opportunity of doing work for the Queen, the Princess Royal and Sir Winston Churchill; only the 'Queen Mum' left! This coming winter I shall be taking further tuition from one of this county's leading florists in order to improve my own personal standard. 500p.m. Time to close the shop, go home and think of what to have for a meal with my family of two boys and husband. Blooms will be on display with other local florists at Avebury Manor on 23/24 June to celebrate the first anniversary of replanting the Rose Garden.

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EDUCATION MATTERS New headteacher for 'village' school Four years ago Philip Gurney was the headteacher of a village school near Wantage with only 50 children in it. Now he is head of a 'village' school with over 700. However after only a few weeks as headteacher of Freshbrook School, he is quite clear that he made the right choice to take on the challenge. know every child and to meet their "I've been head most recently at parents but we're getting ready for Yamton, north of Oxford, with 200 next term, meeting new parents, children, soyou could say l'vebeen interviewing staff and ordering working up to a big school," said materials." Phillip. "I'd never seen an After nine years of rapid growth, advertisement for such a large Mr Gurney is aware that changes school and my first thought was of will take place when the Grange sheer wonder of what it would be Park school opens next year. like to work in. On receiving more Managing the possible shrinkage information I became very excited. in size will have to be prepared for. "On paper, the style and For the future, he intends to build approach to educating children on the good work that has gone on established at Freshbrook was before. Developing closer links similar to my own. Using the topic with local playgroups and with approach to link different subjects together, the simple recognition Constructive education. Phillip Gurney secondary schools and keeping in that children are the most important with Adam Garden, Andrew Brogden touch with parents with regard to developments in primary part of a school, the values which and Claire Young are held as important such as caring by children and staff. The teachers education are things he wants to for each other and ourenvironment. and my two deputies have been do. Updating and increasing the Taking on the task of leading a taking the strain and have been number of computers in the school large team of teachers at an guiding me through the early on the one hand and increasing interest in music amongst children established school and keeping a period. clear head with regard to all the "It really doesn't feel like the on the other are also targets. As a violin and viola player and changes in education, including the 'huge' school everybody refers to. introduction of the national There's a sense of calm dedication teacher, and conductor of Oxford's curriculum and taking on local to doing good work and a sense of Isis Chamber Orchestra, his ability financial management, is a pride in the school, from children in the musical field is considerable. Phillip presently lives in considerable responsibility. But and teachers through to cleaning Phillip believes he's receiving staff who arrive after everybody Woodstock but is hoping to move closer to Swindon with his teacher gentle treatment from everybody. has gone home. "I've been very warmly welcomed "Obviously it takes time to get to wife Joyce and two Sons.

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Top authors visit book event Tim Noble reports on Greend own School's first ever Book Week. Normal lessons in Humanities and journalist who is also the Wiltshire Communication were suspended, Multi-Cultural Advisor. as visiting writers and storytellers Through the week, Peter came to the school to entertain and Kempadoo was in the school. He's inspire the students. Every class in a hard man to sum up: writer, the school had at least two sessions journalist, environmentalist, with a visitor, and students are now educator, Quaker and follower of busily preparing entries for a Ghandi, he was raised on a sugar writing competition. plantation in Guyana and has since The visitors were an extremely travelled the world. He and his varied bunch. There were novelists wife educated all their nine children like Philip Pullman, whose 'How at home. He had students making to be Cool' was recently seen on friends with trees, and thinking TV, Beverly Naidoo, whose novels about how our economy and way about South Africa are studied by of life is intimately linked to the Greendown pupils, and Jan Mark, rest of the world's. one of the most widely-read and On Thursday, Pomme Clayton, popular of all children's writers, a professional story-teller, visited There were poets: Judith Nicholls, the school. First and second year already popular among many pupils enjoyed stories from many students from her visits to local parts of the world told in Pomme's primary schools and David Orme engrossing way. An evening event (alias Mango Chutney) whose was held for parents where pupils collection entitled 'Toughie Toffee' told stories, and performed or read is a firm favourite at the school. their own or some of the visitors' There was Robert Crowther, the poems. Pomme finished off the designer of marvelously ingenious evening with an inspired candle-lit pop-up books, who let the second session of stories, including one a years into a few of his secrets. spooky one which had the audience More local visitors included Jan gasping when the devil appeared! Chambers of Shaw Ridge Primary Greendown would like to thank School, Pat D'Arcy, a writer on SouthemArts,TheCommonwealth education and the Wiltshire English Institute and WI-I Smith for their Advisor, and Faysal Mikdadi, a help in arranging a memorable novelist, short-story writer and week.

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RECREATION Sunday 24 June - Christmas Party! Steve goes for British title

Yes, we have gone totally mad — bring your friends along to the craziest party in town - Christmas music, games and decorations will put you in the mood for some festive cheer. Come along and meet Santa — don't forget the mistletoe. Send a Christmas card to:

Link Centre, Promotions Dept, Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL stating your name and address and the first 10 received will gain free entry to the party that's our Christmas present to you! Further information on any Link Centre on 871212.

A local powerlifter has qualified for the British Championships in June, in a competition he organised. At the South West Powerlifting Championships at Greendown School in May, Steve Brown of Ramleaze Drive, Shaw also beat the regional deadlift record, by raising 740lbs. from the floor to waist level. Having spent four months organising the event with his wife Ann, the win came as a welcome surprise. "He did very well considering that he spent the previous day shifting all the weights and other equipment into

position ready for the competition," said Ann. "It was his happiest day for a long time. "The whole competition went very well. We had a lot of people who didn't know much about powerlifting and who came along out of interest and the facilities at Greendown were really good. "Wed like to thank our sponsors Pebley Beach Garage at Wroughton and also Pizzarama of Shaw for organising the catering." Ann and Steve are now thinking about organising a Ladies Powerlifting Championship at Greendown later in the year.

Taking the strain. Steve bends the bar with over 700lbs. on his shoulders

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School gymnasts do well Shaw Ridge headteacher Kieth Burke writes: This year has seen real progress in the achievement of the school gym club. Teams competed in the South West Area finals at Bridgewater on two occasions. In the first competition which included a team routine, individual routines and vaults, the six girl team came 9th out of

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Mondays to Thursdays 10.30am-2.30pm. Swindon 693875

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Taking a different view on life, Shaw Ridge gymnasts, from left to right Carrie Hancox, Sasha Carter, Simone Mallows, Alex Welford, Rachel Noone, Emma Burnside, Rebecca Croker

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16. In the second when the team routine was not included, a week later, they came third out of 9. Finally competing at Warminster in the Wilts School competition, the team took third place, missing the silver medal by .35 marks. Five of the girls will be with us next year, so we hope to build on our recent successes.

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Five years on & looking five years hence

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Link Centre Co-ordinator John Fisher concludes his series of articles on the five years since the centre opened

In the previous two articles I have reflected on what has happened at Link Centre in the past five years in terms of the building itself and so in this final part, (sorry my agent just couldn't agree the right deal!), I will look at the programming of the Centre and some of our plans for the future. In the early days all the emphasis was on the Ice Rink as skating was still on the 'high' created by John Curly, Robin Cousins and Torvifie and Dean. There is no doubt that television influences some peoples choice of sporting activity. Just try getting a Snooker table during the Embassy World Championship fortnight at the Crucible, or playing tennis during Wimbledon and you will see what Imean. Unfortunately many of these trends are passing ones and often very short lived. It's a standing joke in our trade 'You are the hundredth person today I've told that there is no demand for beach Volleyball in Swindon!' (Swindon 5p.m. Channel 4 in case you haven't seen it the girls seem to like it I wonder why?). The danger is of course that you respond to a demand and finish up with a redundant facility. We have tried to avoid this by providing flexible facilities that can be used for a variety of activities and although that does sometimes slightly comprises the standard of provision it seems to have worked well Back to T & D we do desperately need to find their successors as there is no doubt that the lack of profile for skating on television reduces the numbers of skaters in rinks -

KNIN

ON ACTI

throughout the country. Don't get me wrong the rink is still well used for a variety of skating discipline. We have more than our share of talented youngsters, but the sessions aimed at families and children skating together and the disco nights are quieter than five years ago. We have recently revamped these sessions and introduced new lighting effects and more entertainment and the results are encouraging. On the other hand ice hockey (you knew I would mention it eventually didn't you) has grown dramatically in five years. That does coincide with a national growth in the sport and increase in television coverage culminating a few weeks ago with a live broadcast Wembley final that was breathtakingly exciting. For all youngsters that want to play ice hockey I have one piece of advise learn to skate first. Quite simply the best skaters make the best players and you are never too old to learn new techniques. Whilst skating has seen a declining other aspects of the Link programme are literally bursting at the seams. A change in people's approach to their fitness and lifestyle has meant that the Health Suite and all our fitness classes are very well attended. The Sports I-Jail with its flexible role is booked solidly from week to week with activities ranging from Archery to Volleyball. (I really must invent a sport beginning with z). Swimming has also become popular asa fitness activity and we -

have an unusually high percentage of adult swimmers. The youngsters are not forgotten, however, and the Community Suite is desperately trying to cope with the demand from the enormous number of under fives in the area. (There must be a Torvile and Dean amongst that lot!). In summary I suppose things have panned out just about as I envisaged they would five years ago and my only concern is that despite its size, Link Centre will not be big enough to cope with the demand in the next five years, especially if the current rate of growth continues. The Leisure Park development next door on Shaw Ridge will be both a blessing in terms of helping to satisfy the leisure demand, but also a problem in terms of the extra visitors it will attract to the area who will also want to use Link facilities. The next five years will provide many challenges not least the enforcement of Competitive Tendering which is promising to be a major distraction at a time when all our efforts should be directed at looking after all of you. After all you are the ones that really count.

Pets t Home Worried about who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday?

Pets-At-Home could be your answer. Pets-At-Home is a new service which cares for pets (sorry, no dogs) in their own home. Telephone Swindon 873062 for further details

SOFT WATER CENTRE Come and see our full range of Water Softeners including the NEW 19"HIGH PERMUTIT 2000E. DOMEXTRA, BRUNER, PERMO, SEREIN AND EURO RANGE IN STOCK All at Unit 4, Oaklands Enterprise Estate, Braydon, Nr. Wootton Bassett. Open Saturdays ONLY 9.30am 4pm. Ring Swindon 853156 for further information or appointment. -

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As the summer holidays fast approach are you worried about how to keep your children happy and safe throughout yourworking day? Link Centre's 'Summer Action Pack' has been tailor-made to suit the needs of working parents. Look at the benefits our action pack can offer you and your child during the first week of the summer hols Monday 23 July Friday 27 July. * A start time of 8.30a.m. allowing you to deliver children to Link Centre on your way to work. * 'Action Packers' will be fully supervised throughout the day (8.30a.m.4.00p.m.) and provided with lunch. * Mornings: An opportunity for youngsters to learn and develop -

new skills in an activity of their choice within a fun but disciplined learning environment. Activities available include circus skills, iceskating, trampolining and ballsports. * Afternoons: 'Action Packers' will be taken off site to enjoy a whole range of exciting activities such as sailing, watersports,a treasure trail, domebusting at the Oasis and an outdoor barbecue! The cost of this package is just ÂŁ45 and is aimed at children between the ages of 7-14 years. So, if you are looking for 'Freedom for you and fun for your child' telephone today for details. Lincoln's Holiday Camp starts on Monday 30 July. Details through local primary schools.

HOMEL 0 VERS Does your home need a little more care and attention? From a once-a-year spring clean to regular domestic help, Homelovers has the answer. All aspects of domestic help are covered by this service ironing, window cleaning, oven cleaning, etc. -

Quality, mature, domestic, personal required.

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The Village Inn at Shaw is undergoing a major programme of extension and alteration and Managers Brian and Jenny Lines are delighted to announce that the first phase is now complete. The Village Inn was first opened in December 1987. Brian, who has been the manager and licensee since the opening explained why it was necessary to expand the Inn's services so early in its life. "When we opened, Shaw was just a little village and this was the village centre pub. Now the whole area Nearly ready - Brian Lines looking forward to the completion of the familyroom whi chwi 11 be three times larger than the one it replaces

SUPPLIERS OF OPERATED CIGARETTE VENDING MACHINES We would like to wish BRIAN & JENNY LINES every success at the VILLAGE INN Unit 9, Shortway Thornbury Ind. Est. Thornbury, Avon. Tel: 0454 413451

uildl*pg op a goo Village Iii expards to c is different. There are many new houses and businesses and still more to come. We started doing many more business lunches and attracting trade from a much wider area. Gradually we became geared more to catering and families. The family room in particular has been very well patronised for some time and needed enlarging." Family catering The Family Room at the Village Inn has now been extended to incorporate a food counter and a conservatory area. "It's much more convenient now for families who want to eat here," said Brian. "Parents don't have to trek through the bar for food and leave their children unattended." The Family Room has the same high standard of decor and furnishings as the rest of the Village Inn. It allows families to enjoy all the facilities of the pub without feeling segregated and with no loss of comfort. Because of the popularity of the food at the Village Inn the catering facilities have also been expanded. The kitchen has been extended and refitted and new dry and cold stores added. The cellar facilities have also been increased because of demand. More on the Menu The menu at the Village Inn has always been extensive - now its even bigger! Janet King has been the cook since the Village Inn opened and is renowned for her hot curries and chillies. The

Ready to satisfy the appetite Jenny lines, centre, with Sue Trowbridge, left, and Pauline Bartky menu offers a selection of daily specials - all home-cooked, and main courses that range from Tbone steak to Chicken Kiev (a house speciality), and various vegetarian dishes. A new introduction is the salad bar where you can help yourselfto a mouthwatering selection to accompany cold meats, pies and quiches. There is good news for the sweettoothed as well. Along with a range of gateaux you can now select something special from Sidoli's Ice-cream Menu. Children are well catered for as well. They can choose from their own extensive menu or order small portions from the main menu. And on Sunday the whole family can enjoy a traditional lunch with prices from ÂŁ3.95 for adults and ÂŁ2.45 for children. To accompany your meal,

along with a range of traditional draught beers, lagers and ciders there is an extensive wine list with over fifty to choose from. The Village Inn also serves a wide selection of low alcohol or alcohol-free wines and beers. Coffee is available at all times. Further changes to come Phase two of the alterations will concentrate on the outside areas. There will be a considerable amount of re-landscaping incorporating an outside play area with more seating and children's play equipment. An outside barbecue area is planned for those long summer evenings. Plans are also afoot to change the present games bar into a waitress-service restaurant which will be available for private functions like wedding receptions. The new restaurant is so far lacking a name. Suggestions to Brian

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and Jenny! By the time the changes are complete the Village Inn will offer 260 covers inside and seating outside for 200 sun worshippers. Even with all the changes Brian and Jenny are determined to maintain the Village Inn's reputation for service and friendliness. Staff training is at the top of Brian's priorities. "The emphasis is on customer service and relations. If you are not greeted with a smile I want to know about it." Whether it's a business lunch, a family outing or just a quiet drink, try the Village Inn. For friendly service, good food and comfortable surroundings it's hard to beat.

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This month West Swindon residents Rachel Martin and Robert Cox and Landscape Architect Paul Joliffe look for the hidden meanings in Hideo Furuta's work 'Nexus' at Freshbrook Village Centre. -

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Seulpiur. Rachel Martin: There are probably as many differentinterpretations to Nexus as there are people who study it. Personally I think it is a reminder of past civilizations. The stone is the same as that used in Stonehenge and the wooden supports suggest how the stones would have been transported. The cave-like gap under the stones could suggest pre-historic man and the pyramid shaped pinnacle a reminder of another civilization. What a contrast to the expanding modern area it inhabits? It reminds me of the past, of man's technical development and his short life-span on Earth. Unfortunately, I think most people would regard it as an eyesore, or building material waiting to be collected. It is rather obscure, there isn't even a plaque to give some clue to its purpose. Children probably appreciate it more than adults, after all it's a great thing to climb! Doubtless there are some people who enjoy Nexus, but it's a shame there are so few when you consider how much thought, planning, time

and effort has gone into this sculpture. I think generally people would appreciate something more cheerful or simply more simply understood and therefore appreciated by everyone in the community.

Robert Cox: A pile of stones left on some bits of wood in a scruffy mess in a corner? Before you rush by, give it a minute! What can you see? Nothing? Some bits of half-finished stone? Straight lines and flat surfaces different from the natural surfaces though these were made by dynamite as well as frost. Try feeling these with your hand smooth as well as rough. What about 'the patterns: the timbers underneath, the funny brown markings above the tunnel, or the grainy ends ofwoodenbeams as they start to weather? And is it actually just grey? Is it even all the same grey? What about those browns and oranges they surprised me. There are some greens too if you look for them, -

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The sun doesn ' t ignore this pile of stones either: the complicated chequered pattern around the beams or the crisp abrupt shape of the pyramid; light open' surfaces on top, dark unknown surfaces underneath.

And who has made those tracks around the edge of the pile or undermneath the tunnel, discovering the private corner behind the stones or peering into the deep square cavities between each beam? Is it really 'just a pile of stones?

Paul Joliffe: "What's it supposed to be?" "No, I don't understand it. "Sculpture. You mean that pile of rocks over there?" Nexus isn'taneasy pieceofsculpture to appreciate, but then sculpture as brave as Hideo Furuta's work will probably not attract an army of appreciative supporters defending and singing its praises. There is, however, much to applaud; not least the way in which Hideo carved, sawed and chiselled the work on location in sight and earshot of the public in 1986. This likeable Japanese sculptor produced a daring work which explores the relationship between the natural qualities and beauty of stone with stark man made images. Some rocks balance and rest in a very natural way, others are finely cut and interlock almost mechani-

cally. Tension is introduced by spanning the ground with a large slab into which a perfectly smooth, almost menacing pyramid rises. The rectangular timbers on when it all rests shows the vulnerability of wood. To me it's a work of understatement and contrast. Is it too much to suggest that man has always tried to order nature, only ultimately to be conquered by it? Draw your own conclusions. My biggest regret is the sculpture's sadly neglected surrounds. At least remove the temporary fencing lying drunkenly aside it. It needs a more defined space in which the sculpture can be discovered. Ultimately one must question whether the village centre is the best place for it. But be pleased, not everyone can boast a Nexus next to the chip shop!

Wyvern winners help Telethon A youngster fromSparcells made a good guess at the Wyvern Theatre and won herself two books by well known author Roald Dahl. Emma Doyle of Gairlock Close was one of thousands of children who attended the stage version of Roald Dahi's 'Matilda' in April. The Wyvern ran a 'Guess how many books are in the cabinet' competition in the foyer and donated the entry fee of 20p to the HTV Telethon Appeal. Altogether £140.20 was raised and HTV continuity announcer Su HTV's Su Porter collects a cheque from Porter visited the Wyvern to re- Emma Doyle of Sparcells and her cousin ceive the cheque and present the Kirsty Godwin from Chippenham books to three winners.

ARTS SCENE 19 What's on in June at Link Arts Ocotal - Thamesdown Mural unveiled Rock, Dance, Laugh, Cry, Think Green or simply be entertained.... Arts Administrator Clary Bean describes the offering this month Music Lots of exciting music events this month, kicking off with Another Fine Mess supported by Southampton's Pumphouse Gang on Friday 1st. Tickets cost £2.50! £2.00 concessions. On Saturday 16th, the immensely popular Shrink make a welcome return to Link Arts, supported by Toy Department and The Emerald Trees. Tickets are only £2.00 in advance orE3.00/E2.50 concessions on the day. The Lloyd Langton Band played a sell-out gig here last November and are back on Friday 22nd. Tickets are bound to sell fast so book now! The following night, Saturday 23rd, Swindon jazz Front present a Blues and Boogie Special featuring Bob Hall, Dave Peabodyand Tops Topham. Tickets are £3.50, £2.50 Jazz Front members and a mere £1.00 for unwaged. Our final music event in June is on Friday 29th, when Pagan Fringe play a benefit gig for Greenpeace. All music events start at 8.00p.m. Childrens Events We are proud to present three excellent childrens show this month. On Saturday 2nd The Puppet Van present a hand, glove, rod and shadow puppet performance called Harry's Worm. A 45 minute show for over-fives, it tells the story of Harry Lampton and the trouble he causes when catches more than a common garden worm from the village pond Tickets are £2.25. On Saturday 23rd, World Tree Theatre Troupe present a double bill for children! At 1.00p.m. the under-fives (and their older siblings) can enjoy Mr Moosoo's Magic Puppet Show in which simple household objects magically become puppets. Who steals Mr Moosoo's hat? Who makes it rain on Blanchette's new dress? For only £1.75 you can find out at this charming hour-long show. Then at 4.00p.m., 6-11 year olds can follow the adventures of Nosey, The Leprechaun Who Grew too Big and has to leave the fairy ring and travel to London. Tickets for this hour-long show cost £2.25.

7.45p.m. Membership cost is £1.00 and admission is £2.00/El .50 concessions. Youth Drama The admirable young people's theatre troupe job Force bring their show Feridun and the Flaming Sword to Link Arts on Friday 8th. A cross between a musical play and pantomime, the show concentrates on environmental issues and the moral implications of protecting the planet. Ideal entertainment for the whole family. Tickets: £1.75, Two Mayors in friendship with mural artists Kim Creighton and Carlyle Reedy 730p.m. A mural at the Link Centre which difficult for many years in Nicaralinks two towns in friendship was gua. Recently they have been preDance performance jointly unveiled on 23 May by the occupied with national and local On Monday 11th, Common Mayor of Thamesdown Derique elections, a change in government Ground Dance Theatre, a group of Montaut and the visiting Mayor of and the Contra rebels are not givprofessional dancers, actors and Ocotal in Nicaragua, Felippe Bar- ing up their guns. The people in musicians, both deaf and hearing, reda. Ocotal need our support." perform their latest work 'Partrap'. The mural depicts the natural Tickets areE2.50/.00 concessions. elements of earth, air, fireand water, The show, at 800p.m., will be and images of the different experipreceded earlier in the day by a free ences of life in the two towns. dance workshop for the hard of Speaking through an interpreter, hearing. This event forms part of FelippeBarreda said that 'the mural p,,. our is a lovely gesture of solidarity and Focus on Disability friendship between our two towns. A wide range of events open to able My people have so many prob1 to 1 Tuition by Professional and disabled people will be on of- lems, your help is much needed Guitar Tutor. fer during the whole of June. In and greatly appreciated. This mural Beginners to addition to the afore-mentioned is a way of building understanding Diploma Standard Rain Man and Common Ground and bringing together people of Contact Bernard Tanner Dance events, we have exhibitions two very different cultures. It exThe Shaftesbury Centre, by and featuring disabled and presses hope for the future.' Percy Street handicapped persons; an illusSecretary of the Thamesdown (off Rodbourne Road) trated talk on photography and Nicaragua Link Association Jamie disability by disabled photo- Robertson said the mural marked Tel: 514055 grapher David Hevey on Satur- the twinning of Thamesdown and or 521743 day 30th at 730p.m.; a free Drama Ocotal. "Things have been very and Movement Workshop for over-12's on Saturday 30th at SWINDON SOFT WATER CENTRE 2.30p.m.; Penguin Mask-Making Makes water softening simple followed by Ice Skating on SaturNo. I Best selling water softener in the UK day 30th at 2.30p.m.; Photography Workshops on Sunday lstJuly;and a host of recreational activities for disabled people people during the weekend 30 June/1 July.

New Comedy Finally, this month's alternative cabaret night is on Tuesday 12th, and features Wendy Lee (a hardhitting, sharp comedienne), Otiz Cannelloni (magician, showman and incisive wit), Patrick Marber (recently seen on Not a Royal Show and Paramount City) and resident compere Paul Ramone. Films Doors open at 8.00p.m. Tickets Two splendid films are on offer are on sale now at £4.00/E3.00 this month: Rain Man (15), Barry concessions. Levinson's Oscar Winning film of an autistic savant and his money More info, on any of the above orientated brother, plays here on events, or Arts Activities across Thursday 7th, and Le Grand Che- Thamesdown, or to book, call mm (15), a delightful French com- in at the Link Centre or 'phone ing-of-age dramatic comedy, on us on 871212. Thursday 21st. Films start at

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An Experience for Everybody The most unique Chinese restaurant in Europe will open in a few weeks time in West Swindon. We went to talk to the businessmen behind the ÂŁ2million venture. From the time you drive through the tall ornate gold and red entrance archway into the Chinese Experience, you're taken into another world. External building work was completed in May and a container load of furniture and equipment has justr arrived from the East to turn the inside of the building into a plush restaurant. With its sweeping roof of green glazed tiles from Japan, red columns, yellow ornamental animals and gold decorative panels from Taiwan above the windows, visitors will get a true taste of the Orient. On the ground floor there will be a reception area, bar, raised dance

floor and a restaurant seating 120 people, with some tables overlooking Peatmoor Lagoon fifty yards away. The first floor function room will seat over 100 people with more tables set out on the balcony high above the lagoon. Morris Mo, chairman of the consortium of Chinese businessmen said he and his colleagues were all looking forward to the opening date. It has taken four years since we started talking to Thamesdown Council about a Chinese restaurant. We're nearly there." Colleague Tony Tang, who runs a restaurant in Brighton, said the restaurant was for everybody.

Gateway to an experience

Nearly ready to open up, from the left, Laurence Lee, John Chang, Morris Mo, "People shouldn't be put off by the cost of our project. You might think Tony Tang and Albert Tang a visit will be expensive, but it won't be. We want people to visit the Chinese Experience and we want them to come back, so you'll find that prices are similar to those in good quality restaurants." Brother Albert Tang from Wootton Bassett said the cuisine at the Chinese Experience would be the best in the Cantonese and Pekingnese style. "We will start with dishes which are familiar to the western palette and introduce chef's specials as we go along to see if people like dishes that they cannot get in this country." He said that the kitchen had been designed to be used by a chef brought in from Hong Kong. Special cooking equipment has been imported to make the kitchen seem like home from home. "We employed a very experienced head chef some time ago and are waiting for permission for him to enter the country." For a high standard of work with references available. And once this crucial member of Telephone now for a staff is in place and ready to cook, the Chinese Experience will become FREE estimate one of the biggest tourist attrac- On the first floor balcony, from front Tel: Swindon 870515 Albert Tang, Morris Mo and Tony Tang k \. tions in the south of England.

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NEWS & VIEWS 21 Andy Cresswell, the latest recruit to the fire fighting team based in West Learning to be a fireman Swindon introduces himself and describes his recent training experiences A fireman's job is not all chimney ished fireboots (yes even the weland chip pan fires, the work is lies). At 07.00 fire engines, lectures varied but never boring. As technology advances so does rooms and accommodation are the hazards associated with it, made spotless for 08.00 inspection. The day is then made up of lecmaking it all the more important that the selection and training of tures in the morning, practical firethe modern firefighter is of the manship in the afternoon with further lectures until 20.00, after this highest standard. The candidate initially under- the time is supposed to be your goes a one day introduction course own, but is usually spent revising. During the weeks that follow at the Brigade Training Centre in Devizes, where stamina, strength, constant assessments are made on vertigo, claustrophobia and vari- things such as physical ability, attious academic tests are carried out. tude, mental agility. At the end of the course a fireOn the successful completion of this the candidate undergoes for- fighter is in the making. Not only mal interviews and a thorough are you a lot fitter but attitudes have changed, with infamous drills medical check up. The letter with your acceptance (or failure) seems to take forever, but in truth is only a matter of weeks. If the candidate is considered suitable he or she is put forward for a twelve week residential recruit training course at Reigate in Surrey. Reigate can only be described as an experience, and the type of thing that's nice to be behind you. The instructors are short haired and very loud, probably the sort that would make good sergeant majors. A typical day begins at 06.00 with cleaning of all personal kit from the yellow leggings to the highly pol-

behind you such as 'hose Tuesday, casualty finding and evacuation or the rat runs, smoke appreciation both. The conditions are frightenand the sewer swim' you can look ingly realistic as B.A. crews work forward to the 2 week breathing in temperatures of 800' to 1000' apparatus course. and visibility is down to zero. As The B.A. course takes place at the heat increases and the casualty Devizes, and makes Reigate feel gets heavier, pain from both the like a holiday camp. This course heat burning your skin to the achreally does sort out the men from ing of your body from the physical the boys. punishment has to be endured, Most of the training takes place until the fire is safely out and all in the Smoke House, a large pur- casualties are evacuated. pose built building, capable of Only then can you sit down and simulating most types of fires. sip on a mug of salt water. Is it all Drills vary from fire fighting to worth it? Yes'

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Top award for Toothill P.C. A local beat policeman has received an award for being the best probationary officer of 1989. PC Adrian Wys was presented in May with the 'Jack Tanswell Award' by the Wiltshire Chief Constable in recognition of his performance during his two year probationary service with the force. Whilst many of the incidents for which he was commended are still being investigated, one outstandingachievement was the assistance he gave when he was first on the scene as the roof was being blown off Grange Junior School, Stratton St Margaret during the gales of 25 January which resulted in the death of one pupil and injury to others. The 23 year old constable, who lives in Cricklade, joined the force in September 1988 and has worked in various parts of Swindon. He became one of the Toothill area policemen in November 1989 and says he enjoys working in the area. "Unlike other neighbourhoods which are split up by major roads, Toothill has a sense of community because it is compact. There are some interesting characters in the area which gives variety to the work," he commented.

Your New Calor Gas Main Dealer in Swindon Hotline: (0793) 613391 24 hour telephone ordering service How do you cope with being a parent? The Parent Network offers practical ways of tackling issues like rudeness, anger, fighting, unruly behaviour and all those things which can put parents and children under pressure. The organisation is holding two introductory meetings for parents in West Swindon on Wednesday 20 and Monday 25 June in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. Telephone Martha Parry for more details on 871212 ext 234.

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Sainsbury's declared dolphin friendly Are you encouraging dolphin killers when you open a can of tuna fish? Each year an estimated 150,000 plus dolphins are killed in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean when they're trapped in fishing nets. The yellowfin tuna swim under the dolphins making it easy for fishermen to spot them. The Bath based Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society has been pressing supermarkets chains and food firms to prove their tuna is not caught at the expense of dolphins. So far only Sainsbury's own brand tuna fish can be considered dolphin-friendly because the firm marks its cans with a cede which allows it to trace the contents right back to the fishing boat in the seas around Fiji, where the traditional pole and line method is used. The Bath based Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society has published 'The Good Tuna Guide' which gives an up to date picture of which tuna is caught without killing dolphins. The guide is available from The Good Tuna Guide, 20 West Lea Road, Bath BA1 3RL. Send a large SAE.

Dolphin hero makes Bristol visit Pioneering American conservationist Sam LaBudde visits Britain this month and will be speaking in Bristol on 21 June. Posing as a ship's cook, he secretly filmed the methods used to fish for tuna and the carnage on dolphins. His film 'Where Have All the Dolphins gone? and the accompanying campaign prompted total tuna boycotts in the U.S.A. new legislation and pressure on the U.S. Government to act on the slaughter of dolphins. A stunning film according to those who have seen it. Tickets are ÂŁ3 from the Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society, address above. Adverting Feature

"Citicorp British National has just announced the launch of their latest product, LifeLine. Unlike conventional life assurance, the benefits of LifeLine can be enjoyed in your own lifetime.

It pays cash if you die, or cash if you don't. Although serious illnesses are no longer invariably fatal they may require prolonged recuperation, special treatment, or equipment like a wheelchair for a more comfortable life. Life Line provides the cash, when it is needed most. It is no longer true to say that the only people to benefit from your life assurance are your relatives. You can have the benefit yourself, while you are still alive. Citicorp British National confirm that the Plan will pay out as quickly as possible, once the diagnosis is confirmed. A spokesman said, "It's distressing enough for people to be told that they have a serious illness, without keeping them waiting for the cash that they may need to make life more endurable. "We'll pay either the amount of cover, or the Plan's cash value, whichever is greater." The Plan also carries some valuable extra benefits, such as automatic inflation-linking which will prevent the level of cover from being eroded by inflation. Further details can be obtained from Phil Rashid, Jane Thomas or Mike Baldwin at your local branch of Citicorp British National, telephone number (0793) 615829

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Two chances to re-cycle your Waste Paper Thursday 7 June (until 430pm) Freshbrook School Car Park Help us to raise money and care for the environment. If you need your papers collected then phone 872450. Proceeds to Friends of Freshbrook School,

Saturday 16 June 10am 4pm Sunday 17 June 10am - 12noon Toothill Village Centre Proceeds to the West Swindon Animal and Wildlife Protection League. "Thanks to everybody for bringing over 3 tons to our collection in May,"

Glass facts Unfortunately records are not kept of how much glass is collected at individual bottle banks in the Borough, so we don't know how much West Swindon redsidents are saving. Thamesdown has 17 sites. By contrast there are only 15 across the whole of Wiltshire. Locally there are glass collection points at Toothill and Freshbrook Village Centres and the West Swindon Centre. In 1985, nine sites produced 212 tonnes; in 1988, 480 tonnes. With the increase in sites to 17 last year, the amount recycled rose to 550 tonnes. Are you making good use of all the glass you buy, once you've enjoyed the contents? It's not only wine and beer bottles. Mint sauce, pickle, jam and coffee jars - any glass container - can be recycled. Thanks to Bob Pixton for supplying the information.

Homeward bound from Brazil A student from Washpool, Shaw is nearing the end of an exciting year spent working in Brazil. Swindon College student Juliette Smith, pictured below, decided to take a year off before going to university and applied toTheProject Trust, an educational charity based in the Hebrides. After a tough selection weekend she was given the chance to teach English at a school in Brazil and travelled last August to the coastal city of Recife. There have been times when her mother Ann Smith has thought she might be returning home early. "The economic conditions are very difficult out there," she said. "Prices shoot up daily and she's said her allowance does not go very far." "Juliette is staying with a local family, but as the wife is American

she's not learning as much Portuguese as she should. She's teaching English in a mission school. She's also helps in an orphanage where the waifs and strays picked up off the street are cared for. Her letters comment on the extremes of wealth and poverty. She's a sensitive person and she's said how hard it's been to work in the home; I don't think she could have coped with it if she had gone there when she first arrived. "I was amazed when shedecided to go abroad after her A levels. She found it difficult at first because she's never taught children but she's enjoying the experience." Juliette returns from Brazil in August and leaves in September for Sussex University to take a degree in Anthropology.

23 NEWS &VIEWS Tiny items make big achievements for two playgroups

Barbara Sealey of the Pre-school Playgroup Association ,right, with children, parents and staff from Upper Shaw Farm Playgroup in front of their matchbox display

Two local playgroups have raised large amounts of money using matchboxes to do it with. Upper Shaw Farm raised £616 by asking each their 76 children to fit as many items as possible into a matchbox, raising as much sponsorship money along the way. Each child received a small prize for their efforts and special prizes were awarded to Lee Corcoran and Nadia Jones who managed to pack in 101 and 99 items respectively. Ashley Cresswell also received a prize for raising £48, with a little help from his mum. Altogether £616 was raised. Playgroup supervisor Lyn Scragg said the money would be spent on equipment, multi-cultural dressing up clothes and a camera to record playgroup activities. £100 was also given to the Thamesdown Branch of the PreSchool Playgroups Association. Receiving a cheque branch chairwomen Barbara Sealey said money would be used to support other playgroups across the town. The Link 3-5 Playgroup also used the matchbox idea to raise even more money. The 80 children who attend the group in the week had to ollect just 20 items. £650 was raised •nd split equally between the playroup and the Cherhill Paediatric Isolation Ward at PMH. Receiving the cheque, Ward Siser Linda Fitzjohn said there was lways a need for strong toys which an be washed and sterilised. Children in isolation need a lot of .timulation as they don't have ontact with others. Donations of ood quality toys are always welomed." Playgroup supervisor Hilary unter said the children had been volved from fundraising to sug.esting toys, to hand printing the ra pping pa per. Several had brothrs or sisters who had spent time in e isolation ward and helping the ospital was a way of thanking the aff for caring so much.

Sister Linda Fitzjohn receives a cheque for £50 and £275 worth of toys from Julia Ailing and the children from Link 3-5 playgroup

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NEWS & VIEWS Making a Relationship work - Part two

In the second of her occasional articles for The Link, Relate counsellor Julia Cole suggests ways of tackling things when stresses and strains in a relationship start to get you down Do you live to work, or work to about washing machines or the of tea and a cuddle - try to switch live? Many people find that work baby's new tooth can seem very off work or home worries for a while. Change your clothes, and demands eat into valuable family routine! However, the greatest problem perhaps see yourself as a different time, and can cause arguments seems concerned with tiredness. person now you are home. If there when partners feel neglected. Sometimes, the people I see tell Many workers sink wearily into are important matters to be disme that they feel big companies do their armchairat the end of the day, cussed, choose a time when you not consider their need to be with oblivious to the needs of their part- will feel relaxed to talk. You could their wives or husbands regularly. ner. There are some ways of help- even build in a regular 'sharing More often, through talking, it ing to cope with this, and build up time' to your week. If you have becomes clear that a person's self communication too. When arriv- children they will probably deesteem comes from work, especially ing home create a watershed for mand to be heard too, but will not if they are successful. The life at yourselves. Make a pact with your understand special agreements! It home can seem boring if work is partner not to talk about your day can help to pay them concentrated exciting or challenging. Talking for 10 minutes. Instead, share a cup attention, rather than trying to do ten things at once! Children often respond to this kind of uninterrupted time, and are more likely to lv give you an opportunity to relax afterwards. TOOL& PLANT HIRE Many couples tell me that they A SERVICE • Al RATES • Al EQUIPM NT welcome the chance to re-evaluate the emphasis of their work and ? p home lives in this way. The basis of all these suggestions is, of course, / communication. Many partnerships muddle along on assumpj 40k wt tions and guess work, but it doesn't have to be that way. Next time I will look at coping Unit 9, Marlborough Road Industrial Estate with moving, and the strain that Wootton Bassett. Tel: 854821. Now also at Caine. can put on relationships. EASY PARKING COLLECTION/DELIVERY SERVICE vrrn Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.30pm • Sat 7.30am - 12.30pm

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Locals are top caterers The managers of two local takeaways recently won awards from the company they work for. Alan Clark of the Trawlerman at the West Swindon Centre was rated Coach Caterers Manager of the Year and Sandra Freeman of Pi.zzarama, Shaw Village Centre, was the Most Improved Manager. Alan, who lives in Toothill, has managed The Trawlerman since it opened nearly seven years ago. According to general manager Ian West, Alan is the only manager in the company who can peel potatoes, cut fish, do the books, make up the wages, serve a good cup of tea in the back office, whilst frying for customers during a busy lunchtime. "Seriously though, his cheerful smile and quiet efficient mannermakes theTrawlerman one of the smoothest running businesses anywhere." He said that Pizzarama Shaw was one of the company's busiest pizza units. Sandra, who lives in Shaw, joined two years ago as assistant manager. On taking over as manager increased turnover by 20% in the second year of operation. Mr West added that with major competition in the area, Sandra would have to pull out even more stops to keep Pizzarama's as the leader in West Swindon pizza sales.

Linda gets zapped at superstore

Shocking treatment for Linda There have been reports of shoppers at the West Swindon Centre receiving electric shocks from trolleys, but a childminder from Grange Park is zapped whenever she wheels her charges into ASDA with a double buggy. Linda Miller from Lineacre Close is so fed up with the bolts of static electricity she soaks up that she refuses to visit her local superstore and makes the trip into the town centre. "It all started after the Gateway refit last year," said Linda. "There was no problem when it was Carrefour and changed to Gateway. I used to get the occasional shock following the refit, but since thASDA take over it has been ter rible. It's not only the buggy, I ge. shocks taking a carton of milk o packet of biscuits off the shelves You can see people handling thing gingerly." Linda doesn't know why sheget. the electric shock treatment, bu knows lots of other residents who are similarlyaffected. Andshecan' get a reason out the store manage ment. She's written to the sto manager without much joy. "I'v, written to the manager on tw' occasions but haven't had the cou tesy of a reply." ASDA store manager Les Lloy. said he had just returned fro working at another store and wa not aware of a letter from M Miller. He said there had been n recent complaints about static fro trolleys, and it was the first he ha heard of customers receivin shocks from other sources. Linda replied, "My second lett: was handed in at the informatio desk so there is no excuse for no seeing it. I know things have bdifficult for ASDA and peop expect disruption when such a b change takes place. But as I've sa in my letters to them, I can't gi them a chance to prove themselv if it's going to be such an unco fortable experience shopping the I don't receive shocks at othersto so I'll go there instead."

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NEWS & VIEWS Nicky goes for gold by helping others

A student from Shaw will be making an ambitious trip to the USA this summer as part of her work towards a Duke of Edinburgh's gold award. Eighteen year old Nicky King from Mears Drive started the scheme when she was fourteen and completed the bronze and silver stages at Commonweal School. She's been working on her gold award for eighteen months. As a student at Swindon College, studying for a Diploma in Hotel Management, and working part time at the Hotel This on Great Western Way, she thinks that it will be another two years before she can complete all the requirements for the award. Nicky is working with three friends who all started the 'D.o.E.' together. Originally they planned to take a group of teenagers with learning difficulties who need individual attention to France, but then their horizons broadened and they decided to take them to the USA. The eleven strong group, including teachers from a special school in Swindon, will spend three weeks with a similar group from a

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special ability unit in North Carolina. Included in their programme will be canoeing, walking, pony trekking, rock climbing and enjoying themselves. "It's goingto be hard work," said Nicky. "The trip will be the service element required in the gold award. It's a challenge for all of us to be involved in the care of others. Next year the group from America will be making a return visit and we will be organising an exciting programme for them.

Go Kart Nick represents Britain

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"At the moment our biggest headache has been finding the time to plan the trip. Each of us is at college, doing course work or out working, so getting together is a problem. We will have taken eighteen months by the time we go in July." The group has received financial support from the Youth Exchange Council, the Princes Trust and Wiltshire Youth Service. They still need ÂŁ2,000 to cover all their costs and are appealing to local companies for assistance.

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Go Kart driver Nick Clarke from Mears Drive, Shaw, who The Link has been following for a couple of years, has spent the winter preparing his machinery in an attempt to qualify for this season's British championship. Recently he competed in a rare indoor meeting sponsored by Dunlop at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham and drove well enough to race for a Great Britain team. "There were teams from the U.S.A., Canada, Scotland and an all-star team of present and former champions," said Nick. "There were 30 other British drivers competing for three places to represent Britain. I managed to come second overall on the Saturday with the main international heats taking place on the Sunday. I worked my way through to the main final, driving against the Americans who do most of their racing indoors. It was unusual driving on the short indoor circuit and by the end of the weekend I was pretty tired out from the different kind of karting and didn't manage a place." As a result of his performance he has been invited to drive in a big meeting in the United States, if the RAC grants him a licence. Nick, who is sponsored by insurance brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates, based in Sparcells, has just started the new season racing in the very competitive lOOc.c. National category. He aims to improve on his performances last season by travelling further afield to bigger competitions around the country. To stay in touch with the highly sponsored manufacturers teams, he has had to invest in a new chassis and a new engine for his cart. "It started out as fun three years ago," admitted Nick. "But as performances have improved, kart racing for me, my mechanic Steve McMahon from Westlea, and my

Congregation says farewell

One of the area's longest serving churchmen is moving on to pastures new. Father Liam O'Driscoll, who has been Roman Catholic parish priest in the area since 1979, departed for a parish in Trowbridge at the end of May. He said he was sad to leave so many good friends, but was looking forward to the challenge of a new post. Looking back over the years when his Catholic congregation shared the Toothill Church building with other denominations until St Peter's was completed in 1985, Father O'Driscoll said he would always remember West Swindon. "The people have been so friendly and warm. The congregation have done all the work and there has been tremendous generosity shown to us by the other denominations. "I will remember the unbelievable kindness and enthusiasm tc build the parish, and the joint serv ices held at St. Peter's and the othe churches."

parents who come to the compet tions has become a serious bus ness. Most evenings are spent striF ping down from the weekend bc fore or preparing for the comm races." Mike Rees of Mansfield Begbi Associates said he was very in pressed with Nick's racing abilitk and his achievement at the indoc meeting.

NEWS & VIEWS 27 Friends of Freshbrook School Baby Ruth makes stage debut Since twelve year old singer/actress Amy Cullemreceived her first ever media exposure in the April 1988 edition of The Link, she has been joined onstage by her brother, baby sister and even dad has got in on the act. In May the whole family from Foxwood, Westlea, took part in the Stage Struck Company's production of Fiddler on the Roof at the WyvernThea tre. Greendown pupil Amy played one of the Fiddler's daughters, Paul, 9, who is at Westlea School sang in the chorus and six month old Ruth had the part of the baby for the week. Dad John started out as a scene shifter and then was enlisted as a soldier on stage. Meanwhile mum looked after thebaby backstage and helped with dress changes. Ruth slept during most performances and when she did cry once, it was just at a sad point in the story. Both older children sung in the under 17 duet category at the Swin-

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Call Ken on 729666 don Music Festival in April. Amy won a gold medal with her partner and Paul took second place with his. After singing with Queen's Brian May at the famous Abbey Road Studios last year and receiving certificates at several other festivals, Amy's is definitely going to make music her career.

Acupuncture helps Louise sing out loud A young singer from Shaw won a gold medal as a soloist in the Swindon Music Festival in April, and also did well in two other categories. Nine year old Louise Onslow from Nine Elms started singing five years ago with Swindon's Kentwood Choir and gave her first public performance at the Wyvern Theatre when she was six. She was also taken on tour to Austria that same year with the senior choir. In the Festival she won a gold medal in the Girls Solo for 8 to 10 year olds, came second in the 'Songs from Shows' category one mark behind the winner, and was third in Pianoforte Sonata for under 16s. Neither Louise or her mum wanted to make much of it, but Louise's achievement is all the more impressive because she suffers from chronic asthma. Last year she was in danger of loosing her voice as a side effect of all the drugs she had to take. "I've always been interested in singing," said her mum Anne. "I first took Louise along for the choir audition thinking that voice training would help her breathing and improve the asthma. "Sheila Harrod, the director of Kentwood Choir, has been very helpful since she started. Last year was particularly bad for Louise. She was very unwell during the festival and the drugs she had to take made her voice very husky. "Sheila suggested we try acupuncture. I was very unsure at first, but Louise said she'd try

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I anything if it would help. After three treatments I was convinced of the effect. You could see colour return to her skin and her eyes and her outlookbecame happier. We've been able to reduce the intake of many drugs, although still rely on our local G.P. who has seen Louise through many difficult times." Mrs Onslow said that everybody at Brookfield School where Louise is a pupil is very helpful and supportive. Louise's musical interests mean that in addition to attending choir practices, she practices the piano for halfan hour before school every morning and when she returns home. She's hoping to make music part of her future life. "1 like performing in concerts with the choir and I'd like to teach singing and piano when I'm older," she said. All the hard work by Louise to improve her music and make herself well again was summed up in one sentence for her mum after she won her gold medal. "You see, even an asthmatic can do it."

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Midsummer Madness Claire Beaton suggests some gardens to visit this month June is the month when garden of Badminton on 24 June (2-6pm). visiting begins in all seriousness. This is the opportunity to visit Where do you find what there is gardens on a grand scale includto see and when to see it? The ing conservatories, an orangery Yellow Book entitled 'Gardens of and a recreated Victorian walled England and Wales open to the kitchen garden. £1.50 adults, £1 public in aid of the National children (under 10 free). BadGardens Scheme' is thicker than minton is 5 miles east of Chipthis year, full of amateur and ping Sodbury. ever, I have found Manor Farm at professional gardens. A good supplement to it is 'Gardens Open Minster Lovell a great inspiraToday', edited by Martyn and tion for what a determined owner Alison Rix, which has allowed can do almost singlehanded to the owners of the gardens each to create a modern garden on unwrite a short piece in summary of promising ground. The setting is magnificent, with the old mitheir garden's attractions. Another publication available ster ruins visible behind the orfor the first time this year is the chard. Sir Peter and Lady Parker 'Good Gardens Guide' which are also opening on 24 June (2promises to do for gardens what 5pm, £1 adults, children free, 2 the 'Good Food Guide' promises miles west of Witney). Also open 24June (2-pm,1 .25 to do for food. Which gardens are best to visit adults, 25p children) are half a is largely a matter of personal dozen gardens in Castle Coombe, taste. If what you want to see is a the magical village 5 miles west variation on what the National of Chippenham. It is the sort of Trust has to offer, immaculate village you recognise as soon as gardens on the grand scale, there you drive up the hill and see the are plenty of manor house gar- market house and the yellow dens open where the owners have stone cottages. Its most famous the space that allows them to appearance was in the film of pursue their own variation of the 'Doctor Doolittle' but I have no Grand Vision. On the other hand doubt it has starred in other roles. you may want an opportunity to The roses and herbaceous borsee how other people cope with a ders should be looking wondersmall plot, to gain ideas for your ful. own. Or if you want a Sunday It is not surprising gardening afternoon outing with the family, and garden visiting are the boom you want something with a little industry of the nineties. They more life; almost a small village provide whatever you want as an fete! excuse to get outside and enjoy The Duke and Duchess of something more entertaining Beaufort are opening the gardens than the television.

PURCHASE OR EXCHANGE YOUR HTA GIFT TOKEN WITH US

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Officiat Thtry Fonn Categories for the West Swindon Centre Challenge Cups Gardens over 4 years occupation and Gardens under 4 years occupation Prizes in vouchers 1st50, 2nd 225, 3rd 1O

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What do readers think of ASDA? The following letters were received in response to our article on ASDA last month From Gordon Crabbe, Whittington Road, Westlea

I looked forward to reading your report following the meeting of local residents but I am afraid that it left a feeling of great frustration. Summing up the article, the temporary managermade much of training staff, new ordering and stock systems, new layouts, the trolley system, the waiting at the checkouts and soon. Either he had no idea what is really wrong with the store or he is using a lot of words to disguise shortcomings. I have had over 25 years experience in the trade, but it doesn't need any special knowledge to notice the empty spaces all over the store. ASDA have thrown out many good lines and have replaced them with inferior goods or merely left a void. I could fill a couple of pages with examples and I did indeed write to ASDA's head office, listing some of them. I had a charming letter in reply, but it merely said that ASDA had won many awards for quality and that possibly some of the lines I was missing had been Gateway brands. (This is certainly not the case, for I can think of La Flora Blanche wine, Double Century sherry, Swiss Knight cheese and those lovely little oval plastic containers of pate which used to be

stocked - but I mustn't go on!) There is nothing wrong with the staff, who I find exceedingly helpful. What we want is variety in the goods on show, no empty spaces or too many facings of the same product to disguise the lack of variety. What about making a start by offering decent ham for sale - not the tasteless stuff sold under various names (honeyroast, carver etc. I'm sure it's all the same!). Why not cook the ham on the premises? The manager talked of spending over £100,000 on a new bakery; a ham cooker would cost about £100. If that doesn't appeal, do what we used to do in our shop - buy readycooked hams from the Danish Bacon Company; people used to think we cooked them ourselves. When all is said and done, ASDA will do what they want to do; in other words, "We know best, just wait until we get going". I hope they are right, because they havn't got long before you-know-who arrives in November. Time is running out fast and I sincerely hope that things will improve. If they don't, the customers will desert ASDA in droves. As one who has shopped in the store for six years, I shall be very sorry to see it happen.

From a group of ASDA employees (names and addresses have been supplied but not published for job security reasons)

After reading 'It ASDA get better' in last month's Link I had to laugh, especially after the part where it said "Their attitude to staff is much better." As an employee of Gateway (now ASDA) I would firstly like to say that their staff shortage is entirely of their own making. While all the other major grocery retailers are revising their staff's wages, ASDA are currently employingstaffata lower rate than Gateway, which was low enough to start with. The employees are so disgusted they are leaving in droves which means the customers suffer, they shop elsewhere, resulting in poor profits for this store. The wages in our store are paid weekly on a clock card system. Simple enough you may think, but nearly all the staff including managers, had their wages wrong a few weeks back. Some unfortunates didn't get paid for weeks, and when the personel staff were asked for advice, they wouldn't see us; so weeks went by and nothing was done. No offers to help with bank charges accrued because of their stupid mistakes. We don't work there for the social life. The continuing balls-ups in the wages department really affected morale, which is very important in a boring From Louise Burke, Grosmont Drive, Freshbrook From my recent correspondence Safeways, Sainsburys or the Gate- job such as ours. with the manager, it seems, that way store in Moredon. We were promised meetings while ASDA are happy to listen to ASDA even seem to have diffi- with management which never macustomers' complaints, there is not culty in supplying the products very much they intend to do about they have decided to stock. I re- From P M Higgs, Lineacre Close, the non-availability of many com- cently went into the store for eight Grange Park mon brands weareused to buying. of their items and was only able to I would like to complain about Surely, if I wish to buy certain obtain two. It was in the recent hot something that can only be deproducts the retailer, who wishes spell and there were hardly any scribed as manipulation. You price to keep my custom, is going to do soft drinks available - just a long items on your shelves, such things his best to provide me with the empty shelf with a few bottles scat- as crisps for instance, packets of 12 products I require. I would prefer tered about. Ordinary, everyday for 99p and packets of 6 for 72p and make sure there are no packets of to shop at ASDA because it is my items are frequently not there. nearest foodstore, but as they are If this is how they treat us, will 12 on the shelves leaving no option no longer selling many of the items ASDA have any customers left in but to buy the packet of 6 at ridiculously high extra cost. If the crisps I want to buy I now have to go to West Swindon? instance was a one off I would say From C E Godwin, Morris Street, From Mrs I-I Willstead of Conyers nothing, but it is happening on a vast amount of your products, no Close, Grange Park Rod bourne Regarding ASDA -I am thoroughly I write to you in reply to the article matter what time of day so there disgusted with the service at the in last month's Link about ASDA should be no excuse. West Swindon store. and how poorly they have man- If you add that to a sudden inRecently after spending almost aged the take over from Gateway. crease in a wide range of prices My main complaints about since ASDA took over and fewer an hour shopping I had to wait at the check out for %hour. On check- ASDA are the lack of many items of and fewer (inexperienced) checking the number of tills I found that stock on the shelves and the long out operators on the tills it makes 12 were closed. This is most annoy- queues to pay for purchases whilst shopping at ASDA a very unenjoyevery other check-out remains able thing. ing on a busy day. As if this wasn't enough I found unmanned. I only now shop at that I had purchased out of date ASDA when I am desperate and go to Safeways at Haydon for my main biscuits. The prices are high and the choice shopping. Once Sainsbury's open limited. I most certainly will not their new supermarket nearby, it is shop at ASDA again. highly unlikely that I will ever set foot in ASDA again. I am very disappointed by ASDA's performance so far.

terialised and it was left to our long suffering department manager to listen to our gripes; he did his best for us but was under strain himself. Another thing that we were disgusted about was the redundancy of ten of the assistant managers in our store. These people had been with this shop for years; some were even in on the original opening of Carrefour. But now they are 'excess to requirements. If it wasn't for these people the takeover would have been an even worse shambles than it was. To be fair they were offered other jobs in other stores, but who is going to uproot their family for a shop job. I must also say that the liaison between personel and staff is the worst I have ever encountered. No one is ever willing to see us, and as for Mr Banguena (temporary store manager) I never saw him though I work there. The last point I have to make is about the nature of the staff who work there, most of whom are women. Don't let anyone think for a moment that just because we are shop workers we are not intelligent and resourceful. Most of us are only working there because of family commitments, and are waiting to go back to the jobs we were trained for, i.e. teachers, nurses, secretaries, etc. We resent being treated as people of no account.

Vacancies Summer Playscheme Workers Thamesdown Borough Council's Play Service organises Summer Playschemes (for children aged 5-14) at school sites and community centres across the borough. We are always looking for local people to staff the playschemes. Experience of playwork is helpful but not as important as enthusiasm and an ability to get on well with children. 20-25 hours per week (July/August) Play leaders £3.53 per hour Play assistants £2.83 per hour (at 18) Could this be you?

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• Letters to the Link.

Letters with full name and address should be sent to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by the 20th of the month

Poll Tax on Pets

Poll Tax on People

From Isabel Roberts , Moresby Close, Westlea Whilst not wishing ot prolong the debate over the pros and cons of the April story by Sheila Mitchell, I feel I should point out that the biggest hoax was the address of the author. Imay be corrected (and no doubt will be if wrong), but doubt that Sheila was actually living in Moresby Close or even West Swindon when penning her story, having moved in August 1989. It is a mark of success when you realise that The Link magazine is read by people all over Swindon. Contributions from non-residents should be welcomed, but let's be honest and report the facts accurately. Mayl say that Ienjoyed the story; it was a novel and original idea but appreciate it could have caused distress to some readers. Your recent apology will be well received by those duped. Editor's note: Our award winning writer assures us that she moved to Moresby Close in 1985 and is still there.

From Bob Pixton, Labour Councillor, Lambert Close, Freshbrook I was recently asked for some facts and figures about the poll tax. While Thamesdown is the collection agency for Poll Tax it can be seen from the bills that 85% of the amount collected is sent to Wiltshire County Council to pay for its services and only 15% is retained by Thamesdown Borough Council for its services. This, based on my bill of £340 amounts to a payment of just under £1 per week (98p actually) for the vast range of services that Thamesdown provides. This is about the price of two cups of coffee at a cafe! I hope this puts to bed the rumour, happily spread by Conservatives, that Thamesdown Council is a reckless and wasteful Council. To provide the range of services that Thamesdown does for 98pperweek must be value for money from a well managed authority in anybody's book. One common question asked is why is the poll tax for our household (680) is much higher than the

From Jan Bates, Castle Dore, Freshbrook I wish to congratulate Sheila Mitchell on her recent 'April Fool' article regarding a poll tax on pets. My family and I found the piece extremely witty and amusing, even though it was obviously a joke. What a shame it is that some readers lack a sense of humour. Surely something as major as a new new poll tax law would first appear in the major newspapers and not a local freebie like The Link. In response to one of last month's letters of complaint, it is PJ Meares who needs the treatment - to implant a sense of humour that is. Let me remind those pet owners who complained that it is no joke when they allow their pets to foul our public walkways and gardens. Do they find it funny when our children slip over in theirpet's mess and risk contracting potentially harmful diseases? A recent Sunday Times article suggested that 80% of all dogs carry the Toxicara Canis germ. Maybe a poll tax on pets should be introduced to discourage people from keeping pets which they are not prepared to look after correctly. I am not condemning all pet owners. I know many people do care for their pets whilst showing consideration for others. Pity not everyone does. Once again, well done to Sheila Mitchell. We and several other friends thought her 'April Fool' very funny and we all hope you submit an equally controversial entry in next year's competition.

Thank you Ralph Palmer, the Cycling Chemist From Mrs IC Piatek, Luddesdown Road, Toot hill I would like to say a special thank you to Ralph Palmer, M.P.S. the chemist in Deerhurst Way, Toothill, for his help on Friday 11 May. My 15 month old son Matthew was very poorly and my doctor had phoned through a prescription to Mr Palmer for me. Matthew was too ill to be taken out in his pushchair to get the prescription with me sol called a neighbour who agreed to go to the chemist for me. Unfortunately when she arrived it was closed for lunch and hence returned without the medicine. About 2.10pm I heard the door bell ringing but could not answer the door as I was busy seeingto Matthew upstairs. Unknown to me, it was Mr Palmer with the medicine. When I telephoned him later on to explain the situation he offered to call in with the medicine on his way home from work. True to his word Mr Palmer arrived on his push bike at about 630pm with Matthews medicine, having gone out of his way, not once but twice, including coming in his lunch hour. I am extremely grateful to Mr Palmer and its nice to know that in this day and age, there are still friendly caring people who are willing to put themselves out to help others.

expected rates bill (E540). There are 3 main reasons: 1. The Government have seized upon the introduction of poll tax to reduce the grant given to local authorities forcing me to pay more. In all the green/white papers about poll tax the Government suggested that they and business would provide about 75% of the cash for local spending. The reality (from the bill) is that they are providing only 57%, slightly over half rather than it The poll tax payer is funding the difference to the tune of over C200 each! 2. There has been a re-distribution of wealth with the poll tax with money being taken from ordinary people in average homes to subsidise people in large homes on high incomes compared to the rates. 3. To simply collect the poll tax is estimated to cost £zrnillion more than the estimated cost of rates collection. What could readers suggest we do with that extra £m? Build a Visitors Centre at Coate and the rest on street cleaning? I hope this analysis is of value to readers.

Sculptor responds From Julie Livsey, Wallsend, Tyne and Wear Having just read the feature on Public Sculpture in the May edition of The Link, I feel it necessary to make it clear that the sculpture 'The White Horse Pacified' was not intended to be visible from the road behind it (Cartwright Drive). The bowl of the clay-pit was to be banked up to form a horse shoe shaped enclosure so that the sculpture suddenly confronted you at a turn in the footpath that leads down to the underpass. It was at this point that I was hoping walkers would choose to approach the sculpture - the scale of the piece being appropriate when it enables you to view it from beneath. The most prominent viewpoint is from the main road where a passing driver can pick out at a glimpse the simple horse form. Having spotted it, I hope drivers would resolve to visit it in its hidden enclosure. Unfortunately the landscaping couldn't be completed while I was in Swindon, but I trust and hope that its completion will solve many of the concerns expressed on your Arts Challenge page.

Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

Cable Vandals From Kathleen Lindsay, Mont agle Close, Grange Park Oh, the sun is shining and I'm out in the garden and what do I hear? A lawn mower, the distant sound of music - at the moment I can because the drill has stopped, the pavement cutter has stopped, though I can still hear the the noise of a digger. Yes that time is upon us - let's dig up the pavements so they will never look the same again. I thought I'd got away with it, after all this is my third time. After the last move I thought the paths would stay looking decent forever. It would be nice to be informed that there would be disruption to life with having to walk in the road, dust, numerous vans, cars, lorries toing and froing. I have spoken to others who had been informed though I wasn't. When I saw the first fluorescent spray on one cable box I thought vandals! How right I was - just a different sort.

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads in The Link cost 15p per word. Boxes cost £3.50 per single column centimetre. Inclusive of VAT. Lost and found are free. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon.

The Company Company Swindon's brightest Introduction Agency for singles, divorced, seperated and widowed people.

Please phone Swindon 487761 -Vacancies Vacancy for a Playgroup Assistant at Westlea Playgroup. 5 mornings. 3 afternoons per week. Letters of application to Mrs D Conner, 30 Benwell Close, Westlea by 8 June.

Supervisor and Assistants required for The Nine Elms Playgroup, Shaw. Five mornings per week. P.P.A. trained preferred, but not essential. Positions available from September. Please apply in writing to: Mrs K Peachey, 1 Kingscote Close, Nine Elms, Shaw, Swindon

-For Sale French Polished Mahogany veneered dressing table. Large mirror. £45. - Deep Pink bedroom carpet 10x12 £10 Tel: 872282.

Hidden painting discovered The nine year restoration of an ancient painting has just come to an end and now visitors to St Marys Church in Lydiard Park will occasionally see a picture with an important difference.

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

MOBILE ECHANIC

Anglican, Methodist,

U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421

St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park

WE COME TO YOU 'Non-Starts â€˘Servicing 'Tuning â€˘ M.O.T. Work .Breakdowns 'Electrical Faults 'Clutches fitted

Rev. Tony Price 870244

Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 1 also All Saints, L. Millicent Painting conservators Pauline Plummer and Kiffi Stainer-Hutchins at work on the St John triptych in St Mary's, Lydiard Park

Painting conservators Pauline Plummer and Kiffi Stainer-Hutchins spent ten hours a day throughout May to complete their painstaking and delicate work of preserving the very large painting of the St John family at prayer. The work is spread over several folding panels and is situated next to the alter, opposite the tomb of Sir John St John with its carved figures of the man and his two wives beside him. At an earlier stage of conservation Pauline was involved in removing the canvas first painted in 1615 so that the wooden backing could be replaced. Whilst removing layers of varnish dating from the 18th and 19th Centuries, she discovered an original painting underneath. "We don't know who painted the original but as Sir John only employed the best people, we know

it must have been a well known artist of the time. Some very crude cleaning took place in the early 18th Century followed by amateur overpainting at the end of the century which made the work flat and lifeless. We've had to do a lot of structural work to the painting and retouching to areas of loss or damage. We didn't realise the extent of the overpainting until we started to clean away the old material and ouraimhas been to expose as much of the original painting as possible. "The painting of a family group is very unusual for its time. Up until now it hasn't had much attention because of the poor treatment it received in earlier years. But having revealed the original, this work will now be recognised as a major piece of art in national and international terms. There really isn't anything like it anywhere."

Order, Orders.

New playgroup

Some of the pupils at Freshbrook School spent last half term studying the workings of Parliament. Groups of children formed political parties, made up their manifestos, slogans and election material. They also made short videos about their party proposals. At the end of the project other classes were invited to watch the videos, question party members and then vote.

West Swindon's newest playgroup at Sparcells started in early May and meets for 1 hour and 59 minutes on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Organising for the group started in late 1988 and official registration by the social services department is expected any moment.

Below: The CUP Party. Standing David Markham, Sam Cues with Gemma Bartlett and Claire Young in front

The playgroup children pictured herewith playleaders Coby Day and Jane White

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