June 2008 Swindon Link

4

fantastic competitions @ swindonlink.com See page 26

Swindon SUMMER FESTIVAL SEE PAGE 24

Visit Bradon Forest School across the centre pages of this edition

No. 313 June 2008 • Circulation 27,000

Your child deserves the best Excellent standards of Education and Daycare for 0 - 7 years

MEADOWPARK the positive newsforce in Swindon and the swindon wide what’s on guide

MP attracts exhibition

Art and play together

Skaters call for Olympic rink

Ice skaters and hockey players say Swindon would benefit from a big rink. See page 5

New head for Nova

Youngsters at Orchid Vale Primary School have unveiled a fantastic piece of art in their playground.

See them at play on page 16 Pictured with artist Tim Norris in his leaves sculpture made from English oak with Orchid Vale headteacher Debbie Kalynka, Benjamin Mazzotta and Abigail Goodwin

Maharajah 5 H Winner Scores on the Doors

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A moving exhibition on the life of holocaust victim Anne Frank and the contemporary relevance of her diaries comes to the town in January.

See page 32

See page 44

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

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Should Swindon have its own Boris, Brian or a Ken? Why can’t the people be asked if they want an elected mayor?

Swindonians are not able to choose the person who runs the town because Swindon Council’s affairs are in the hands of a collection of councillors from one party which controls the seats around the cabinet table, jockeying for position and pulling the strings of power.

In April the Institute of Public mayors have overseen important present you vote in each ward for Policy Research (IPPR) published improvements in council perfor- a councillor and the party with the most form the cabinet. People bea report looking at the success of mance.

In 2001 Martha Parry of the New come more engaged in civic affairs elected mayors since they were introduced eight years ago, sug- Mechanics’ Trust told The Link that, if there is a named person elected to gesting that Central Government having grown up in Cleveland, take responsibility for council matforce local councils to put the idea USA, she supported the idea of an ters, somebody who has to stand or elected mayor. She would still like fall on their record of serving the before the electorate.

Yet we’ve been here before. The a referendum on the matter. “At whole community.

“You have to wonder why June 2001 Link was the only local Steve takes over Swindon has remained a two star media that highlighted the idea. But council for the last three years, the then Labour controlled council’s one of 17 local authorities stuck at consultation on having elected maythat level.” ors, as required by government, was North Swindon MP Michael half hearted and distinctly biased.

Wills said he’s keen for Swindon The exercise was shrouded in seCouncil to again look at having crecy and was designed to preserve an elected mayor and considers the status quo. a referendum. “The IPPR report However the experience in the spells out that elected mayors could 13 towns which have opted for an help give a stronger personality to elected mayor has been positive, politics in the town and offer more even though the media latched authority and accountability to the onto ‘Robocop’ in Middlesborough council.” and Hangus the local football club Under legislation 5 per cent of mascot who got himself elected the population is needed to force a in Hartlepool. The IPPR says that providing a name and a face to the Toothill and Westlea councillor referendum on the question. actions of a council has provided Steve Wakefield, who lives in •What do you think of the idea of an more accountability to local lead- Middleleaze, took over for a year as elected mayor? Would you be interMayor of Swindon on 16 May. Read ested petitioning a referendum? ership.

Mail: publisher@swindonlink.com There is also evidence that elected his profile at swindonlink.com

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Hearing could answer questions over town centre traffic if canal goes ahead

Plans to create a new canal route through the town centre will be scrutinised by a government inspector in June with questions asked about the wider transport implications.

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The Central Area Action Plan which forms part of Swindon Council’s Local Development Framework will be subject to a three week examination from 24 June. The purpose of the Independent Examination is to assess the soundness of the council’s proposals.

The inspector will be asking for information on the overall strategy for transport in Swindon and the timescales and priorities for the Central Area. This may be the first time that council officers explain in public how traffic will be rerouted away from Faringdon Road to make way for a canal.

Consultants Halcrow are working on a report considering traffic across the whole of the town but it is unclear when it will be complete.

They have produced a shorter report to provide information for council officers speaking at the Independent Examination.

Donald Brunwin of the Swindon Civic Trust will be making representations to the inspector and welcomed the opportunity to raise

concerns over the proposals for the canal and its impact on the Railway Village. “My main concern is that secure routes be found for planning purposes, so that whenever work does go ahead, it would not be blocked by development that has occurred in the meantime. I feel that the present proposed route for a section of the canal system has not received the detailed planning analysis that should be required.”

But Ken Oliver of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust denied there is a problem. “It was recognised some years ago that securing a route through the town could be an issue and this was written into the Local Plan.”

The old route avoided the town centre and passed next to Sainsbury’s Bridgemead and through Shaw Forest Park.

Ken said, “the council will be saying that they have looked at all the issues. We think we’ve done more than enough to justify the case for a canal in the town centre.” www.swindon.gov.uk/final_list_ mip1.pdf

H0083791

4

Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance

advertising Enquiries Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 (9am - 3pm) advertising@swindonlink.com July bookings by 4 June “The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984.

Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.”

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in Copy for August: 7 July printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks.

Printed by pcp, Telford photographs require similar authority The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers

Editorial copy date for July: 9 June Published: 28 June

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Skaters have their say at West Forum

Link Centre is not going to close and ice skating facilities are going to be improved, skaters were told by local councillors at the West Swindon Forum on 12 May. Representatives of the ice dance improve Oasis as a major concert develop this if an Olympic sized and figure skating clubs, as well venue and better sporting facilities rink was built next to the existing as junior and professional hockey at Link Centre. There is a pressing ice pad. This would attract world clubs, attended the meeting in large need for a 50 metre pool with good class coaches and skaters as well as numbers seeking clarification, after seating and more income generat- major international competitions, they had heard council architects ing capacity at the ice rink. Link and boost ice hockey.

Afterwards skating mum Kathy had held meetings with swimming Centre rink is very heavily used clubs in the town in advance of a and we’re under pressure to provide Porter said she had been reassured report to Swindon Council’s cabinet ice time and the right quality of ice by what she had heard. “Link is a for many different users. The report tremendous facility; I’m glad the in June.

Coun Nick Martin assured the will give us the framework to start council wants to make it better.”

Coun Peter Greenhalgh said the meeting that the idea of a single su- formal consultations.”

The skaters told councillors skaters had provided a lot of good per sports centre had been ditched over a year ago and the cabinet had that Link Centre has a very good information that officers needed to promised to redevelop and improve reputation and Swindon could understand better.

Oasis and Link Centres. “We have identified Oasis as the site for major Friends of Shaw leisure and recreation facilities and Forest Park, infor Link to become the centre for cluding four counsporting excellence. However rede- cillors removed veloping and improving what we piles of rubbish at a community litter have is going to be very expensive pick on 11 May. and will have to be undertaken in Contractors are stages over a ten year period. We see now seeding the consultation with users as a central site after 5,000 trees feature of future sports and leisure were planted in the provision; we need to ensure that Spring and erectwe get it right.” ing fencing around Roger Byrne, the council’s head the car park of leisure who is preparing the report to cabinet, said it will set out Free sat-nav buster on the way the broad brush design principles The next edition of the North Swindon map, published by The Link, will and costings. “We have briefed be available in early June. The date of release and where to pick up a the architects to look how we can free copy will be posted at www.swindonlink.com

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

Spreading smiles worldwide Swindon to Sweden, via Canada, Japan & Russia

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Bikers ready to roll westwards

But this won’t be a two week trip to Wales. The couple - who were featured in the June 2007 Link when they announced the trip - will be travelling for four months across Canada, Japan, Russia, Ukraine and Europe, ending up at the Annual World Dental Congress in Stockholm.

Unfortunately, with only a 30 day visa to ride across Russia, they will be under severe time pressure to cover 6,000 miles. “Because you can only apply for particular visas shortly before travel, it means we have to enter as tourists,” said Brendon. “We have to arrive and leave on specified days. There won’t be much time for socialising and no room to deal with problems; we might have to consider putting the bike on the train if we get behind schedule.”

As founders of the charity Smile Menders, Brendon and Natasha will try to visit dental schools along the route to highlight the challenges faced by people effected by radiation and poverty. In Japan they will visit the atom bomb sites at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Eleven years ago Brendon was inspired by stories in The Link about the lack of dental care for children in Ukraine and since 1999 has established close links with the health authorities in the Cherkassy region of Ukraine, where he met Natasha.

Brendon is raring to go and their BMW R1150 G/S Adventurer has been toughened up for the hard riding to come. But Natasha is still uncertain of what lies ahead. “It’s very exciting, but quite scary. Riding non-stop to meet the visa deadlines is going to be hard. Some areas in the east of Russia are very remote, we might have to ride for days without going through a town and I’m not

looking forward to the mosquitoes and wild bears.”

The couple will visit Natasha’s brother in Siberia and will spend a month in Ukraine visiting her mother and their contacts in Cherkassy. Smile Menders has supplied two mobile dental units to the region and they will receive an update on their use since their last visit in 2007.

They aim to arrive in Sweden for the World Dental Federation (FDI) conference on 25 September and Brendon will be back at the surgery on 2 October. In the meantime Gerry Davies will be seeing patients. Call 873044 for an appointment.

They will be sending back reports from internet cafes around the world which will be posted at www.swindonlink.com

Alaina Kletchkovskaya, the director of Health and Education for Kalinkovichi District of Belarus holding the June 2007 Link with Brendon and Natasha on the front page and a report on her visit to Brimble Hill Special School and Bridlewood Primary arranged by Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline • CCLL families are taking part in the the Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown’s midnight walk in June. See page 36

swindonlink.com • June 2008

stival

spor t

June’s Festival of Sport and Get Active Month promises something for everyone from sports fans to the exercise phobic; there really is no excuse not to participate in some way or other.

The festival on Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June will see company and charity teams, as well as individuals, competing in traditional sports as opening weekend for the well as moreThe unusual activities like Parkour, grassboarding, 2008 at power kiting and Nordic walking. Juggler will put in anJune appearance Spectators are welcome to cheer both venues during the day. on the teams battling it out in comThroughout June’s Get Active petitions across town. The Polo month there are opportunities Thethe Festival of Sport is a community focused for Ground will host football, rugby all ages and abilities to take part and inflatable tabletaking footballplace tourna-oninSaturday sporting activities including event 31st May and a ments and football and tennis are parachallenge event for people with Sunday 1st Rec. June 2008.

The weekend will programmed for St Mark’s disabilities.

See page 36.

Dragon boats will take to the Many sports clubs and activity be packed full of sports tournaments and free water at Coate, above, which also providers will also open their doors provides the ideal venue beach to community give people the opportunity activities forforthe whole to enjoy. volleyball. Netball and hockey fans to try something new at reduced will be heading for Dorcan prices free.not come along If you’re not theLeisure competitive typeorwhy Centre where there will also be a The Festival of Sport and Get for a family day out and try one ofmonth the many activities Boccia competition.

Active is free organised and For youngsters, there will be Country coordinated Swindon Council. on offer at Coate Water Park,by The Polo Ground rides, stalls and inflatables at Coate A full list of events can be found at: and Dorcan Recreation Complex. The Macmillan Castles and the Polo Ground and Jake the www.challengeswindon.org.uk

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Bike Ride is again taking place at Croft Sports Centre on Sunday 1st June. There really is something for everyone with festival, cultural and sporting activities on offer throughout the weekend including: s American Football s Power Kiting s Parkour s Rowing s Grass Boarding s Croquet

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

Service personnel to be honoured

The contribution made by veterans of the Armed Forces will be recognised nationally on 27 June, but in Swindon events funded with help from a £7,000 grant from the Ministry of Defence will take place over a week.

It will be launched with a family The entrance price to Steam will be that veterans have much to offer at a ceremony and concert on to society today. There will also 27 June at Bath Road Methodist fun day at Steam on Saturday 21 reduced to £1 on the day.

All Armed Services personnel be a drive to ensure that they and Church. Swindon Council staff and June, which will also have a serious side. A World War I trench will be are classified as veterans, no matter their dependents know about the members will receive their badges created in the museum and a group where and how they served and the welfare support and advice avail- at a ceremony on 26 June at the Civic Offices. of re-enactors will demonstrate week’s events are being organised able to them.

A march arranged in partnership Swindon’s mayor Steve Wakethe grim conditions soldiers had to remember their contribution to to endure on the Western Front. the nation’s history and to recognise field will present veterans’ badges with the Royal British Legion and a church service will close the week’s events on Sunday 29 June. Marchers will set out from the Royal Navy Club at 2.30pm arriving at St Mark’s Because Swindon Council Planning Committee was proposing to accept a major change in land use from Church for a 3pm service. the local plan at St Andrew’s Ridge, the scheme put forward by developers had to be submitted to the Youngsters will learn about Government Office of the South West.

Veterans’ Week and the relevance However the council has heard tor engineering and maintenance, Tomlinson said, “it’s fantastic of honouring service personnel news for Swindon Speedway fans during a series of workshops in planning permission can be given animal husbandry and care.

Abbey Meads councillor Justin and also residents who were in fa- schools across the town. for a new stadium, 450 dwellvour of a residential rather ings, a care home and Veteran Billy Baxter, who lost his than commercial develop- sight on active service in Bosnia 16,745 square metres ment on the land.” of employment. in 1997 and has since become an North Swindon MP inspiration to people by breakThe existing staMichael Wills is delighted ing the world blind motorcycling dium is to be demolthat the project can pro- speed record, learning to ski and ished but only after ceed. “I have backed this run marathons will visit schools a new one is built, to scheme from the begin- with the mayor, to run workshops the south east of its ning as it was the only on conflicts in the 20th and 21st present location, next way to save speedway for Centuries. to the new Blunsdon the town and bring new by-pass. It will also If you are a service man or woman facilities for young people who has not been contacted about provide a home for in the area.” greyhound racing, receiving a veterans’ badge, call the The new stadium could mayor’s office on 463002. the indoor market and be ready for the 2009 www.veterans-uk.info/veteransa training centre for season. young people in moday08

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Curry cash for charities campaign goes townwide

An idea to support charities and community groups by enjoying a good curry has stimulated a lot of interest around the town and more restaurants are thinking about joining in.

Hanif Robbani, owner of the Bombay Lounge at Peatmoor Village Centre, launched the idea in February and is handing over his Monday night profits from the restaurant and takeaways. So far 12 good causes - from Epilepsy Action, Sunny Smiles Toddler Group, Prospect Hospice and the Lower Shaw Farm Children’s Project - have benefited by nearly £6,000.

Every Monday, excluding bank holidays, is booked for a charity night until mid-December. And now Planet Bollywood in Gorse Hill has agreed to commit profits from Tuesday evenings to the curry cash project.

Owner Matthew Singh, who launched his new restaurant in February said he was keen to invite organisations to enjoy a curry and other Asian dishes at Planet Bollywood. “As a new restaurant, we’re trying to do things differently by

offering an authentic taste of Indian cooking.

All our staff are from India and our dishes are made with free range meat and cooked with no artificial colour or flavourings. It’s a different kind of cuisine; once people have tried it, we know they’ll come back.

“I’m looking forward to supporting community organisations. It’s a great idea to have a weekly charity night because it encourages local groups to come out together to enjoy a meal in good company.”

Link publisher Roger Joining the curry campaign, Planet Bollywood owner Ogle said the curry Matthew Singh with sales and marketing manager nights are a win-win Kay Wainwright

Starlight walkers to relive memories at Planet Bollywood

Nearly £60,000 was raised by 570 women who took part in mid-May’s first ever Starlight Memories walk in aid of Prospect Hospice.

The hospice fundraising department have reserved two ‘thanks for the memories’ reunions for walkers and their supporters at Planet Bollywood on Tuesday 1 and 15 July, with profits going to Prospect.

To book a table call the restaurant on 435577.

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BUY ONE MAIN COURSE AND GET A SECOND ABSOLUTELY FREE* Sunday to Thursday, Lunch 12noon - 2pm & evenings 5.30pm - 8pm (pre bookings only) Come and sample for yourself our succulent free range dishes, all freshly prepared and cooked to order using only fresh natural ingredients with no artificial colour or flavourings. We are confident once you have tried our unique cuisine you will return with friends, family and business colleagues. *Call to book your table, and mention The Link to qualify for this offer Not available on Charity event nights or in conjunction with any other offer

situation. “The evenings are very simple because there is little organisation involved. It’s a normal restaurant night, but if the group put in some effort to bring along their members and supporters, an impressive amount of money can be raised from enjoying a curry.”

Hanif said, “it’s really pleasing that every Monday in 2008 is now booked. We’ve had such great feedback from the charities and we’ve had a tremendous amount of repeat business.

“I’m really glad Planet Bollywood has joined in. There are hundreds of community and sports organisations in Swindon; we need more restaurants helping them out.”

To book a Planet Bollywood Tuesday charity night, or a Bombay Lounge Monday from January, mail Roger Ogle at The Link: publisher@ swindonlink.com Book a table at one of the restaurants below and you can support the groups signed up to receive profit driven donations from The Link’s Curries for Charity Campaign.

See the list of recepients at: www.swindonlink.com

10 swindonlink.com • June 2008

Meditation can give a different perspective on busy lives

Do you have so many commitments that you feel overwhelmed or unsatisfied with the way things are?

Meditation could help relieve the mind from all its busyness, folsome of the pressures of every- lowed by a short teaching session day life. with advice on how to apply the This ancient knowledge, applied experience every day. for thousands of years and through There is also an opportunity to so many cultures now attracts sci- learn the basics of Buddhism with entific and medical attention for its tutor Becky Gilbank, who has been purported benefits of an improved studying and practising Buddhism immune system, lower anxiety, for many years. lower blood pressure and increased Afterwards there is an opportubrain activity. nity to talk to others in the group Meditation lessons are available and share your experiences. at a weekly Wednesday evening The Swindon meditation group drop-in class at Upper Shaw has a broad range of members Farm Community Centre in West - many have been practising for Swindon. several years, whilst others are new It is suited to anyone, regardless to the group. of previous experience or religious www.meditationinbristol.org/swinbelief. The sessons have two parts, don or relaxation meditation to help clear www.meditationinswindon.org

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Find out how to eat healthily at surgery session

Ashington House Medical Practice patients representative group is organising a healthy living afternoon on Wednesday 11 June, 2pm to 4pm to which patients and others not registered at the surgery are invited.

Health professionals and members of the group will be discussing healthy diets, favourite recipes and ways to look after yourself. All attending will be entered into a free raffle for a healthy eating prize.

Tel: 01793 615327

Unit 12, Birch, Kembrey Park, Swindon SN2 8UU

“I’m in PAIN” Can Osteomyology Help ME? We are often asked ‘what’s the best way of finding out whether or not an Osteomyologist can help my problem?” We believe the answer can be found in a complete consultation and examination, including spinal scan, 3-D posture analysis and centre of gravity analysis.

(Procedures that normally cost £140 or more) YOUR INITIAL VISIT WILL INCLUDE : o A private consultation with the practitioner o Spinal Scan & 3-D Postural Analysis if needed o A thorough spinal examination including orthopaedic & neurological tests o Confidential report of our findings ARE YOU EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SIGNALS? o Headaches o RTA injury o Poor posture o Sciatica o Scoliosis o Back & neck pain o Trouble sleeping o Lower energy levels o Numbness in arms and legs

£27.00

$ Offer ends 30 June 2008

This certificate entitles you to a complete orthopaedic, neurological examination, including spinal/postural scan for £27 Paul Marshall BSc (Hons) MSc MAO (Manip.) ICAK (UK) Registered Osteomyologist Spinal Health Centre, 7 Rodbourne Road, Swindon SN2 2AG

Make an appointment today! Tel 01793 487829

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Carers invited to the Big Event on 14 June

There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people across Swindon who take on responsibility for caring for a relative or a friend, who due to age, physical or mental illness, addiction or disability cannot manage on their own.

Many carers do not identify them- where there will be displays about selves as such, but continue to carry the service the charity offers which a heavy burden when there is free include benefits advice, informaadvice, information and practical tion, counselling, courses, outings, a young carers’ support service and support on offer.

Carers’ Week from 9 to 15 June a home care service.

Gentle aerobic classes and hand aims nationally to highlight the needs of carers and the enormous massage sessions will be on offer, contribution they make to society. as well as charity stalls and refreshThis year Swindon Carers’ Centre ments.

For details about the Big Event is organising a Big Event for Carers and their families in Queen’s Park beforehand, call Swindon Carers’ on Saturday 14 June, 2pm to 5pm, Centre on 531133.

Mediation skills training offered at free course

Aggravation and conflict at a local level can leave individuals fearful and stressed and drag an area down, but things don’t have to spiral out of control if independent help is available to bring warring neighbours together.

Community Mediation Swindon ing to volunteer their skills with is expanding its team and offering Community Mediation. There are a a training programme in mediation limited number of places available and conflict resolution skills. A on a fee paying basis for people course in June and July will train who want to acquire the training for volunteers in the sensitive skills work or other areas of their lives. and techniques required to resolve For details call 527285 or mail: points of disagreement. admin@familymediation.fsnet.

The course is free to people will- co.uk

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12 swindonlink.com • June 2008

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

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

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Good looking wood

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

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

13

Bags of support for Food Bank as credit crunch bites

The drive to persuade shoppers to buy reusables has reduced the supply of free carrier bags for Swindon Food Bank but pupils at Moredon Primary have saved the day with a mountain of recycled bags.

Richard Belsham of Food Bank said the supply of single use plastic bags is drying up as supermarkets stop giving them away as part of the initiative to encourage shoppers to buy reusable bags. When stocks began to run low, food distribution points around the town, including Moredon School, were asked to help. The youngsters rose to the challenge and brought in more than five hundred carrier bags.

Food Bank provides basic short term food support for households struggling to put food on the table when faced with redundancy, sickness or family breakdown. Sometimes welfare benefits can take weeks to come through but the charity can give immediate help.

As the credit crunch takes its toll, requests for help are up by 25 per cent compared to this time last year. “We have had a big increase since Christmas,” said Richard. “It started when the main building companies There are regular food collections at supermarkets around the town in the town shut down sites and we’ve been feeding bricklayers, painters, and donations can be taken to the Rainbow Bookshop on Edgeware Road. carpenters and decorators over the last six months.

“Out of all the people that we help, we only ever see five per cent come At the moment, small packets of breakfast cereal would be particularly back. We feed people for six weeks on average and the fact that they don’t welcome. Call 07932 108732 to assist. www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk return is a sign that other services in the town are working.”

The answers are at swindonfairtrade.org

Swindon Fairtrade Coalition has relaunched its website and is running a competition to encourage readers to learn about Fairtrade and how you can support the movement to give food producers across the world a better deal.

Have a go and you could win four tickets to the Empire Cinema or one of six vouchers for coffee and cake for two at Cafe Revive in Marks & Spencer. All answers to the questions below will be found at swindonfairtrade.org E-mail your entries to swindonfairtrade@ntlworld.com or post to 80 Okus Road, Swindon SN1 4JP 1. What is cacao?

7. How much does a pack of Fairtrade recipe cards cost?

2. Where is Swindon’s Fairtrade Status certificate displayed?

8. How many different recipes were featured in the 2005 Swindon Fairtrade Calendar?

3. Where does Elia Ruth Zuniga live?

4. Name 2 local (Swindon) employers who support Fairtrade 5. How many coffee washing stations has the money from Fairtrade helped set up in Tadessa Maskela’s community in Ethiopa?

6. Name 10 cafés in the Borough of Swindon where you can buy a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee

9. Which famous newsreader did the winners of the Fairtrade Borough postcard competition meet in May 2007?

10. Name 6 Fairtrade fruits which can be bought in Swindon Tiebreaker - in no more than 15 additional words, complete the sentence: Fairtrade products are.....

Now You’re Going Places

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14 swindonlink.com • June 2008

SCONES OF PRAISE! An afternoon of Cream Teas & Favourite Hymns in Emmanuel Church orchard

Thick clotted cream on juicy Strawberry Jam on homemade scones ... mmm... who could resist?

Sunday 29th June (4pm start – 6pm) Cream Tea £2.50 (includes free top-ups of tea/coffee) Hymns are also free & words will be provided We hope you will join in the singing but it is optional

Emmanuel Church High Street, Haydon Wick, Swindon www.emmanuelchurchuk.org

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Book a visit with Home Library

Newly recruited Home Library volunteers are ready to take to the road to deliver books to anyone who finds it difficult to use the main library.

The free service is available to Volunteers visit every three weeks anybody who cannot get to a library with new supplies. They work in due to disability or illness or those pairs, so that in the event of one who would find it difficult to carry person being unavailable, Home books. Arrangements are flexible Library users will always see one and it is possible to use Home Li- familiar face.

There are already two regular brary short term or seasonally.

“Some users request the service rounds from West Swindon Library. during the winter months,” said Librarian Karen Leyden said that co-ordinator, Debs Osorio. “I think with a new batch of volunteers rareveryone needs to know about the ing to go, now is the ideal time to service. It’s no good thinking ‘that’s apply. “If someone can’t make it to not for me’. Young or old, none of us the library and would like a home visit, they should get in touch. I know what’s round the corner.”

Anyone requesting the service think sometimes people won’t ask will be visited by a member of for help or don’t know the service the library staff to put together a exists.”

For details call Debs Osorio on personal profile detailing reading preferences and any other requests 707127. www.swindon.gov.uk/libraries such as DVDs and audio books.

New films offered for quick view

After a successful trial in the town centre, Swindon Libraries Fast Films service is now available at North Swindon Library.

The films are all premium title latest release DVDs and can be hired for two nights for only £1.50 Titles in the launch collection include The Golden Compass, Enchanted, Alvin and the Chipmunks, I Am Legend, Sweeney Todd and Alien vs Predator 2 More titles and hire details are listed at: www.swindon.gov.uk/libraries/fastfilms

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Bg fhlm \Zl^l i^hie^ maZm l^ee ikhi^kmr makhn`a nl k^\^bo^ Z lbfbeZk Zfhngm _hk ma^ lZe^ Zl nlbg` Z mkZ]bmbhgZe ^lmZm^ Z`^gm% pah k^\hff^g]l maZm rhn Z\\^im Z k^ZlhgZ[e^ h__^k Zg] ma^g \aZk`^l rhn Z _^^ _hk ma^bk l^kob\^' P^ phne] [^ o^kr bgm^k^lm^] mh ]bl\nll hnk l^kob\^ _nkma^k pbma rhn% pbma Z[lhenm^er gh h[eb`Zmbhg _khf rhnkl^eo^l' Rhn \Zg \hgmZ\m nl hg )*02, 11/+++

01793 886222

info@investment-portfolios.co.uk www.investment-portfolios.co.uk

swindonlink.com • June 2008

New head for Nova

After a lengthy planning process to determine exactly what they wanted from their new head teacher, governors at Nova Hreod School have appointed Julie Tridgell.

Head Rush HAIR & BEAUTY

Beauty by Kerry

Hairdressing • Cutting

• Waxing

Mrs Tridgell and Mr Fleet with Nova Hreod youngsters She is currently head of Carterton Community College in Oxfordshire and has been teaching since 1983.

In common with retiring head, Andrew Fleet, Mrs Tridgell started her career as an RE teacher.

She has three grown children, a son aged 23 and twins aged 22 and said that she is very organised both at home and school and has high expectations.

As well as high standards, Mrs Tridgell said her priorities were compassion and fairness. “One thing I’ve learned from all my years of teaching is that young people look for fairness and consistency and if you treat them fairly they will work for you.

“I am committed to raising standards and developing young people as independent learners equipped

with the knowledge, skills and aptitudes for 21st Century living. Nova Hreod has an amazing new building in which to achieve this.”

She is no stranger to major building projects. Last summer she spent her holidays dealing with the aftermath of the 20 July flooding throughout Carterton College which resulted in £300,000 worth of damage.

“Everybody is absolutely delighted that we have found a head who can take the school forward,” said chair of governors, Carol Gibbon. She said she had confidence that Mrs Tridgell would build on the good work done by Andrew Fleet.

Nova Hreod will mark Mr Fleet’s departure with a retirement extravaganza on 17 July.

Shaw Forest protester now a Prof.

Brian Toft, Ph.D, from Middleleaze has a unique accolade in being appointed as Professor of Patient Safety at the Coventry University Applied Research Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions - a world first in this field.

Brian, right, currently Brian said, “I am honserves as an independent oured to have been apmember of the Joint pointed. I see my role as Commission Internausing my expert knowltional’s, European Reedge to help prevent pagional Advisory Council tients being inadvertently to the World Health Orharmed by the healthcare ganisation on healthcare system. No one wants to and patient safety, the have avoidable errors, inUK Intrathecal Chemojuries or deaths, least of all therapy Advisory Group patients and their health and the National Patient Safety care professionals. But unless we Agency’s joint working parties with find out why things go wrong, and the Royal College of Radiology and put in safer practices, mistakes will Royal College of Anaesthesia. and do recur.”

A graduate of Lancaster, Exeter Brian was a campaigner against and Cambridge universities he has the proposal to build a football studied both the Social and Natural stadium on Shaw Forest and deSciences which has considerable scribed the idea as a disaster waiting applications in the highly complex to happen in the April 2004 Link. socio-technical area of health care. His expertise was a secret weapon Last year he was the first non- that would have been employed if physician to chair an inquiry into Swindon Council had not rejected the death of a patient in the National the idea within three months. His Health Service since its inception analysis can be read at www.swinin 1948. donlink.com

15

• Manicures

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16 swindonlink.com • June 2008

Art is all around at North Schools

The Blackthorn School of Photography Digital image-making and black and white printing based at our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade Evening, day and weekend courses for beginners and advanced photographers www.photography-courses.com Tel: 01454 416937 or 07920 116492

Would you like to become a counsellor or psychotherapist?

Bath Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy is expanding into Swindon from September 2008 with our Foundation Certificate.

This is a one year, one day per week training which may be used as a stand alone course for personal and/or professional development.

The Certificate also fulfils the entry criteria for our Diploma in either Counselling or Psychotherapy.

The course will run on a Saturday and applications are now being invited.

View our prospectus online at www.bcpc.org.uk 1 Walcot Terrace, London Road Bath, BA1 6AB Tel: 01225 429720 Email: mail@bcpc.org.uk

The April and May Links have featured the art works to be found at the seven new PFI schools built across North Swindon and this month we look at how art and the outdoors thrive together.

The importance of art in North Swindon schools is seen long before you set foot in the buildings: even the windows are works of art with colours carefully chosen to reflect the surrounding natural environment.

Consultant artist for the North Swindon Schools Art Programme youngsters worked Bruce Williams with sculptor Tim contributed to the Norris to produce choice of colours ideas in clay and on used inside and paper. Tim incorpooutside the buildrated the children’s ings. He used ideas into a crown pixilated photoshaped sculpture graphs of the flora of willow and oak and fauna at each leaves, made in school site to create solid oak. the scheme for the “It’s a piece of coloured panes of activity with seatglass incorporated ing inside,” said into each buildhead teacher Debing. bie Kalynka. “It’s Bruce’s involvement continued with a commission very active. It looks beautiful: as to produce a permanent artwork for you come into the playground you Nova Hreod. Following an artist’s have full sight of it.”

Mosaic artist Emma Biggs and residency in the school he created four sculptures bearing images ceramic artist Jo Veevers ran pracsymbolising aspects of the school’s tical workshops involving all the children, who each created a tile life. (Top, one of the four panels).

Pupils at Nova Hreod worked with an insect theme. The finished with kinetic artist, Jim Bond. mosaic has been set low on the wall in the school’s reception They took part in team area, above. “It’s very tacbuilding and problem tile. As the children walk solving workshops past, they touch it. For the and built a life size children who were here figurative sculpture in July last year, it’s theirs. using soldering and They’ve all got a little bit metal working. Jim of ownership.” produced two sculpThe art project in the seven ture designs and the PFI schools is managed by whole school selectArtpoint Trust and is part of ed a wind sculpture the Percent for Art agreement which Jim has fabribetween Swindon Borough cated. It can be seen Council and PFI company Education Support Swinin the school’s chapel don Ltd, a John Laing plc garden. company.

At Orchid Vale, Orchid Vale pupils and headteacher Debbie Kalynka enjoying Tim Norris’ work

swindonlink.com • June 2008

17

No newts found, Shaw Ridge is underway

At last, a year behind schedule, building work has started on the new Shaw Ridge Primary School.

After the hurried decision to shut to take precautionary measures been reserved for a Roman Catholic Salt Way Primary in July 2006 and because rare and protected Great primary over 30 years ago - trapping transfer the children to Shaw Ridge, Crested newts had been found in measures had to be put in place over where a collection of brand new two ponds within 250 metres of the winter.

Although frogs and common mobiles were installed, Swindon the site for the new school. As it Council discovered that it had had never been built upon - it had newts were found, not one of the Shaw Ridge Primary with the site of the new school marked. Upper Shaw Farm social great crested variety was discovered. The no newt news is a great hall, top left, is due to close once community facilities open in the new school relief to headteacher Sally Cowell, right. “It has been intensely frustrating for everybody but we’re putting all the hold ups behind us.

New build The council architects, the builders site and all the others involved are so focussed on this project that we

School entrance to be made safer

Traffic consultants Halcrow have proposed that the speed limit on Tadpole Lane in North Swindon should be reduced from 60 to 50 mph.

Swindon councillors have asked officers to investigate extra measures to reduce traffic speed on the road, at the entrance to Brimble Hill and Uplands Special Schools and the Mayfly Road junction.

Staff at the two special schools expressed their concerns to the council in September following numerous near misses involving school buses and a petition had been raised calling for Swindon Council to act before a serious accident.

No date has been set for the change in speed limit. See the full story with pictures at www.swindonlink.com

want it to all fall into place without a hitch.

“We’re very excited that work has now started.”

In late April two old mobiles were taken away and contractors started to remove over 200 tree stumps ready for groundworks to start. There is evidence of a Roman trackway in the area and archaeologists and environmentalists are keeping a watching brief on the site.

If all goes to plan the new Shaw Ridge will be ready for occupation in September 2009.

18 swindonlink.com • June 2008

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

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An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play and garden Grant places available For information telephone: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

Be a Star Volunteer with HOME-START You can be special to our families by: Sharing your parenting experience, talking, listening, encouraging, having fun!

For more information please contact: Home-Start Swindon 161 Victoria Road Swindon SN1 3BU Tel: 01793 613886 E-mail: homestart@clara.co.uk

Registered Charity No. 1106046 Company No. 5196092

Westlea play area ideas to be looked at

On Sunday 1 June, Toothill and Westlea councillors Mary Martin and Steve Wakefield, the new mayor, will be leading another community clean up at Westlea Park on Westlea Drive.

They will be joined by Swindon Council’s Play and Landscape Officer Dave Hunt, from 10am to 12noon, to discuss the refurbishment of the play area built over 20 years ago.

Lorna Breslin, special needs teacher at Uplands School, will also be present to discuss how play areas can be made more inclusive for children with different requirements.

“Please come along and put forward your ideas,” said Coun Wakefield.

“The council has agreed a budget and we’re on target to start work in the Autumn, but we need to know what local people would like to see in the park.”

Nursery has places for three year olds

Oliver Tomkins nursery class is a fun and exciting place to be, writes Tamzyn Vander Meulen.

We are part of Oliver Tomkins CE Infant and Nursery School and provide children with a safe and caring environment where we take the ‘Every Child Matters’ ethos very seriously. Individual needs are met and we believe learning should be fun.

If your child will be age three by 31 August 2008, call the school on 870471 to arrange a visit or mail: tv@olivertomkins-inf.swindon.sch.uk

Take a toddle from Middleleaze

Parents, toddlers and babies in buggies gather every Thursday at the Salt Way Centre in Middleleaze for a healthy 45 minute walk led by mum Caz Caple before returning for tea and biscuits.

“It’a great way to meet new friends, discover interesting parts of West Swindon whilst stretching out in the open air,” said Nan Pratt of Active Swindon. “Our first walks in May have been a lot of fun. Children love seeing new things and hearing the birds sing and the mums chat as we go along.”

For details turn up at 2.30pm at Salt Way on Jewel Road, or call Nan on 466202.

Amber’s appeal continues

A team of three women from Freshbrook Playgroup are planning to launch themselves from the top of King’s College Hospital in London to raise money for the ward that treated Amber Martin who attends the playgroup.

Amber, right, was born with the liver condition, bilary atresia, and was only expected to live for a matter of days. She clung to life and at three weeks she was rushed to King’s College Hospital for emergency treatment. Amber has battled her way through five bouts of meningitis and has had a liver transplant.

The playgroup was featured in the April Link when they decided to mark Amber’s fourth birthday with a month of fundraising for the King’s College Starfish Appeal. The aim is to raise £1million to refurbish Also taking the plunge, and bravthe Mountbatten Ward which leads ing the hundred foot drop from the the world in liver treatment.

“We’ve had so much fun fund- hospital roof will be playgroup raising, that we want to go on,” chair Hazel Clark, and Kay Fallon said Cara Hooper, co-ordinator who works with the children.

For those preferring to keep their of the Freshbrook appeal which has already raised £1,250. When feet on the ground, a charity curry King’s wrote to ask her to consider night will take place at Planet Bola sponsored abseil, she jumped at lywood on 10 June. To book a place call the restaurant on 435577. the chance.

To sponsor Cara, Hazel and Kay “It seemed like a good idea at the time, but I’m not sure now. in their London leap of faith, mail: Somebody said I would get a unique carahooper@hotmail.com or donate view of London but I just hope I’ll online at: www.justgiving.com/ carahooper be alright up there.”

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Mums have the best experience to help other mums

If you’ve raised a family, HomeStart needs your expertise.

The charity has been in Swindon for over 25 years, providing support to parents with under 5s who are finding it difficult to cope.

Volunteer mothers or grandmothers, after a training course, visit mums in their homes to share their experience of bringing up children.

The aim is to build a relationship through friendship and support over a long period of time. They can provide reassurance that it is not unusual to find bringing up young children a challenge. They work towards increasing parents’ confidence and encourage them to make effective use of the support services available to them.

Home-Start manager Jan Aylward said, “our volunteers know how hard it can be to bring up young children and work with mums who feel lonely or isolated, or perhaps have financial or relationship difficulties. They also know the fun to be had spending time with children and are able to share this.”

A training course will start in July.

To find out more call 613886 or mail: homestart@clara.co.uk

Looking for quality childcare you can trust?

At Leapfrog, we offer quality care, learning and hours of fun for 0-5 year olds

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20 swindonlink.com • June 2008

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Anne returns to her roots

Parents who have been campaigning for a school at Oakhurst are working with Swindon Council on plans for temporary classrooms to be ready for children in September 2009.

Coun Tomlinson said that party In the meantime, all Oakhurst children due to join reception politics didn’t come into it and that classes in September have been all those involved were working offered places at schools in North towards the same goal, to build the school that parents want. “TempoSwindon.

Councillor Justin Tomlinson rary school buildings are on course said that parents involved in the to be built for the 2009/10 intake campaign had been happy to accept with a full, permanent school ready places at established schools and a year later. The council is working had understood the obstacles to with local parents to deliver a school opening a school this September. for the community.”

The campaigners and local parBut coun Fay Howard, Shadow Lead Member for Education, has ac- ish councillors have been invited cused the council of a cover up over to regular monthly meetings with the reasons behind changes to plans council officers and Justin Tomfor the school on Pioneer Road. She linson.

One of their suggestions under claims the council is in breach of Anne, above, a tutor in hair and the Freedom of Information Act by discussion is for a split form entry; beauty, said she had leapt at the failing to provide information about with places for reception and Year chance to take over Hairworks at the remit given to education officers 1 children. This would provide Freshbrook Village Centre when it producing a report on capital fund- the opportunity for children who missed out this year to switch school ing for schools. was put on the market.

“This is information about how next September.

Having lived in Grange Park Coun Tomlinson said plans for 22 years she is full of praise for this council decides to spend taxthe area. “West Swindon is very payers’ money,” said coun Howard. could not have progressed while “I am concerned as to why they there was doubt over the type of friendly and a great place to live.

“It’s lovely to be working and won’t tell us. Does this refusal to funding available. “To the credit training the youngsters in a salon release information suggest that of Michael Wills MP, he went with again. All the staff are from the this is so important to them that council leader Rod Bluh to meet a area; we’re all locals serving the they’d rather not have the school senior civil servant who agreed that built at all than admit the govern- the money would be available as a community” grant rather than a loan.” ment funded it?” www.hairworks.uk.com When Swindon College lecturer, Anne Pileggi, decided to set up a hairdressing salon, she knew that West Swindon was where she wanted to be.

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21

Teddy Bears’ Balloon Race Sunday 22nd June

Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane.

Tel: 771615 Trains: 11am-4pm

Ballet goes big on the Swindon Screen

Roll up, roll up, bring your rugs and picnics for a live performance of Romeo & Juliet on Swindon’s BBC Big Screen at Wharf Green in the town centre.

On Sunday 1 June watch ballet whilst Prokofiev’s memorable and as you’re never seen it, as if you’re emotive scores will draw you into in the Royal Opera House, Covent the dramatic tale, filling you with Garden, but dress how you like and the passion and heartbreak of the star-crossed lovers. enjoy it with family and friends.

The performance launches this Shakespeare’s enduring tragedy has become one of the most popular summer’s BP Summer Big Screens works in the Royal Ballet’s repertory, programme which has been enjoyed in many cities in previous years, and for the first time in Swindon.

Big Screen Swindon was powered up on live TV by BBC Points West presenter Alex Lovell, left, on 2 May and has featured the Swindon Festival of Literature, video screenings by local film Lauren Cuthbertson as Juliet, Edmakers and urban dance perfor- ward Watson as Romeo. Photo: Dee Conway mances.

The Wimbledon finals feature on 5 and 6 July, followed by the first night of the Proms on 18 July, with the Olympics dominating screen space in August.

More programming details can www. be found at www.swindonlink. com

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Beatbullyz date with Hollyoaks on 24 June

Swindon band Beatbullyz will get a huge boost in June when they will be seen on Channel 4’s Hollyoaks.

Band members - Bully, Disco, Bozo and Philonius Funk - won a national competition earlier in the year to perform in the series and spent a day in Liverpool on 6 Beatbullyz with the cast on the Hollyoaks set May filming with cast members in the SU Bar. Beatbullyz will be seen performing their winning track Keyz to Life and a video diary made of their day can be viewed on the Hollyoaks site: www.channel4.com/entertainment/ tv/microsites/H/hollyoaks Andy Bullimore, singer and producer from Peatmoor, said appearing on Hollyoaks was giving Beatbullyz great exposure. “Winning the competition coincided

with the release of our latest album Rootz; it’s been a brilliant showcase for our work.”

The band also performed in the VIP suite in the prestigious new Gaucho restaurant at the O2 arena in mid-May. Locally Beatbullyz can be seen at the Bowl Benefit in Old Town Gardens on 31 May. See band details and future gigs at: www.beatbullyz.com

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Swindon Wide

22

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Lydiard’s loss, gain for Chiswick House

After 23 years as keeper of Lydiard House and latterly Swindon Council’s heritage manager Sarah Finch-Crisp has been appointed director of the internationally famous Chiswick House and Gardens Trust in West London.

Earlier in the year the which will see miles of paths borough council set about renewed, over 1,600 new trees appointing a new director planted, the conservatory of culture by combining the brought back to life so that the positions of heritage and art rare camellia collection can managers. Sarah decided to continue to thrive and a new take her considerable expericafé and lavatories built. ence elsewhere.

All but £1 million has been At Lydiard she was the drivraised for the project. ing force in securing £5 million in Heritage Lottery funding and support from some of the town’s largest businesses.

At Chiswick House she will St Mary’s Church in Lydiard have a much larger budget and Park will be open from Friday will be primarily responsible for 27 to Sunday 29 June for its delivering the business plan annual celebration of flowers. to secure the site’s financial And there is a chance to future and for the operational view the famous triptych and management of the gardens the many monuments in the which are undergoing a major church, meet the bell ringers restoration. She will also play and go up the tower. a lead role in developing the educational potential of the 27th & 28th: 10am - 6pm house and gardens.

29th: 12noon - 6pm The Heritage Lottery Fund Admission: Adults £2 (HLF) has awarded £7.9 milunder 16s free lion towards the £12.1 million garden restoration project, Summer Fayre

Church celebrates with flowers

Sarah Finch-Crisp with author and broadcaster Simon Jenkins, when he visited St Mary’s, Lydiard Park for his TV series England’s Greatest Churches

Saturday 28 June 1.30pm - 4pm Stalls, bouncy castle & BBQ Free admission and parking

Town Gardens, Old Town, Swindon Come and relax, dance the night away and soak up the sounds of some of the best live outdoor music over the summer.

A great bar and food service will be available at all events or you are welcome to bring your own.

Albert Nyathi & Imbongi / Saturday 28 June, 6pm Trans-Global Underground / Saturday 12 July, 6pm Achanak / Saturday 26 July, 7.15pm Merengada / Saturday 9 August, 6pm Chumbawamba / Saturday 6 September, 6pm To book tickets call the box office on 01793 614837 or 530328 www.bowlconcerts.co.uk Tickets £11 in advance, £13 on the day, Swindon Card £9 in advance, £11 on the day Family tickets available

Music

Swindon Wide What’s On in June

Wednesday 4th, 7.30pm C’mon Everybody. An eight-piece show presenting the best of late fifties and early sixties sounds. £16.

Wyvern Thursday 5th, 7.30pm Leading Ladies. A celebration of the life and music of the leading ladies of musical comedy who graced the stages of the West End between 1900 and 1960, starring soprano Rebecca Caine and pianist Gerald Martin Moore. £12. Arts Centre Friday 6th, 8pm One Night of Queen. A stunning twohour concert celebrating the music of Queen performed by Gary Mullen and The Works with fantastic staging, lighting and effects. £19. Wyvern Friday 6th, 8pm The British Blues Quintet with a selection of music from the foot stomping days and nights of the 60’s and also featuring Maggie Bell, the greatest blues and soul singer of this country. £17.50. Arts Centre Saturday 7th, 7.30pm A Fine Romance. Thamesdown Ladies Choir with guests Swindon Male Voice Choir with an evening of fun and entertainment for all. £8. Wyvern Monday 9th to Wednesday 11th, 7.30pm

Friday 20th, 8pm

Ben Waters Big Band. Raunchy vocals and an exuberant style have earned Ben Waters a superb reputation as one of Britain’s finest boogiewoogie’s performers. £16.

Arts Centre Friday 20th Beatles Night. Three course dinner followed by ‘Imagine the Beatles’, on the UK’s leading Fab 4 bands. £29.

De Vere Hotel, tel: 878785

Saturday 21st, 8pm Steve Howe Trio. Yes prog-rock frontman, is joined by son Dylan on drums and Ross Stanley on Hammond organ in a new project. £17.50.

Arts Centre Sunday 22nd, 3pm & 7pm Kentwood Showcase 2008. Kentwood’s big annual show with great music, fully staged and costumed. £12. Wyvern Tuesday 24th, 7.30pm The Searchers. Classic hits, many rarely performed album tracks, B sides and a selection of other collectors’ favourites. £16. Wyvern Thursday 26th & Friday 27th, 7.30pm Bizet’s Carmen presented by Swindon Opera, directed by international opera singer Maria Jagusz and conducted by Malcolm Webb. £15.

Russian State Opera of Siberia.

Wyvern This leading opera company will perform Madam Butterfly on Monday, Saturday 28th, doors 6pm La Traviata on Tuesday, above, La Boheme on Wednesday. £26.50 - £32.

Wyvern Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th, 7.30pm & Saturday matinee, 2.30pm The King and I.The well loved musical presented by Ray and Judith Sharp.

For tickets call 485025 or 692196.

Arts Centre Friday 13th and Saturday 14th, 7.30pm Musical Summer presented by K School of Music and Arts. £9.

Wyvern Bowl Concert with Albert Nyathi.

Saturday June 14th, 7.30pm An Evening of Summer Music with Amazing 8 piece township jive dance Swindon Choral Society. Enjoy work by band from Zimbabwe. Vibrant singPurcell, Vaughan Williams, Byrd and ers, musicians, dancers and bongo Bach. £10, free for under 18, or £15 to beats. In advance £11, family £36; include a cheese and wine reception. on the day £13, family £44. Advance Christchurch Old Town. Tickets from tickets from Arts Centre or Swindon Information Centre Swindon Information Centre

23

Swindon Wide What’s

24

Dance

Saturday 7th, 7.30pm, Sunday 8th, 3pm & 5.30pm Dance House presented by Swindon Dance. A showcase for the talent and diversity of youth dance in the South West region. Programme includes jazz, ballet, hip-hop and contemporary. £7/£5. Town Hall Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st, 7.30pm and Sat 2.30pm Peter Pan presented by Estelle School of Dance. A large, lively cast aged from 2 years. Follow their adventures with the pirates, Indians, mermaids and fairies. £7 - £9. Wyvern

Comedy

Monday 2nd, 7.30pm Because I forgot to Get a Pension Tour. Jenny Eclair returns following the phenomenal success of her Grumpy Old Women show. £15. Arts Centre Tuesday 3rd, 7.30pm

Theatre

Thursday, 19th, Friday 20th & Saturday 21st, 7.30pm Musical Comedy Murders of the 1940’s presented by Wadams. £8, tickets from 813307 or 813847. Ellendune Centre, Wroughton Wednesday 25th to Saturday 28th, 7.30pm House Guest presented by Western Players. Robert, a well known actor returns home and tells his wife that while he and son Michael were in Rome, the boy was kidnapped. Not for ransom but to force his parents to allow one of the kidnappers to stay in their home. It soon becomes clear that no one is as they seem. Tickets £6 from 433297. Arts Centre

The Best of Gina Yashere. On a break from extended US commitments catch Gina in this fast, fresh, hilarious evening. Suitable for 15+. £15. Arts Centre Saturday 7th, 8pm Stick Your Job Up Your A**e with Until this year John Bishop worked in a lucrative marketing job and spent his nights moonlighting in the world of comedy. Come and see the results. £10. Arts Centre Monday 30th, 8pm Mark Watson - Work in Progress.

On his way to the Edinburgh Festival, Mark will be previewing old and new material. £6. Arts Centre

Swindon Comedy Festival Saturday 28 June to Saturday 5th July

Film

Sunday 1st, 11am, 2pm & 5pm The Bucket List (12A) Terminal illness brings a billionaire and workSaturday 28th, 1pm The Burple Brothers - the country’s ing class mechanic together as they only children’s comedy band. £7.50 decide what to do before they die. adults; £5, children; £20 family. £5. Wyvern Wyvern Wednesday 4th, 7.45pm La Vie En Rose. Edith Piaf’s voice Saturday 28th, 8pm and romances made her a star during Sean Lock. £17.50. Wyvern WWII. But she flew so she could not fail Sunday 9th, 6pm to burn her wings. £4. Arts Centre Kit and the Widow. £16. Wyvern Monday 16th, 11am, 2pm, 7.30pm Monday 30th, 8pm Jimmy Carr. £19.50. Oasis Leisure Centre Monday 30th, 8pm An Evening with Rabbi Lionel Blue. £12.50. Wyvern Further Comedy Festival shows in July

Exhibitions

To Friday 20th Cristina Steel. Bold, striking and colourful work, mainly in acryllic.

Free. Wyvern From Thursday 5th Stupidly Funny. Steve Ullathorne’s images have appeared on over 250 posters in Edinburgh, New York and London. Free. Arts Centre From Saturday 28th Arturart. Comedian, writer and raconteur Arthur Smith displays his eclectic work. Free. Lower Foyer, Wyvern

There will be Blood (15) Daniel Day Lewis’s remarkable Oscar winning performance as an oil prospector who won’t let anybody or anything stand in his way. Not for the faint hearted. £5. Wyvern Wednesday 18th, 1pm & 7.45pm Bombs at Teatime. Rarely seen films from the British Film Institute National archive that provide a fascination glimpse of Britain during World War II. £4. Arts Centre

On in June

Children & Family

Sunday 1st, 11am - 5pm Treasure Trail. Make a decorated treasure map and follow clues through the State Rooms and walled garden to discover the hidden treasure. Normal admission charges. Lydiard House Saturday 7th, 10am - 12noon Tabla Workshop. An introduction to the classical Indian drums. £10.

Arts Centre Saturdays 7th & 21st Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railworkers bring the days of steam to life.

Normal admissions charges. Steam Sunday 8th, 2pm & 5pm Aesop’s Fables by Michael Morpurgo.

Three actors and a one-man-band combine with a host of colourful characters to magically recreate the most enchanting stories ever told. £7 adults; £6 children; £25 family. Wyvern Sunday 15th, 11am - 5pm Fathers’ Day at Lydiard House. Dads go free with accompanying admission paying child. £2.25 (5 - 15 year olds) to house and garden, £1 garden only Lydiard House Thursday 19th, 2pm Guided Walk. Join the head gardener for a tour of the grounds and restored walled garden. £1.85 adult, £1.50 senior, £1 junior. Lydiard House Saturday 21st, 10.30am & 1pm

The Big Ugly Monster. A tale of friendship and laughter about a monster with a beautiful heart. Suit 3 years & over.

Adults £8, children £6. Arts Centre Saturday 21st Veterans’ Awareness Day. A celebration of the contribution made by veterans who served their country in wartime. £1. Steam. See page 8 Saturday 22nd, 11am - 4pm Teddy Bears’ Balloon Race. Swindon & Cricklade Railway. See page 21

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Lydiard House Tel: 770401 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Dance Town Hall, Regent Circus. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

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Fundraising Friday 6 June, 5pm - 7.30pm Summer Fete Stalls, bouncy castles, tombola, BBQ Greenmeadow Primary School, Pen Close In aid of Greenmeadow School PTA Saturday 7 June, 12 noon - 3pm Fun Day Story telling workshop, crafts, miniature garden competition Sponsored by Capita Challenge North Swindon Family Centre Atworth Road, Penhill Free entry. In aid of NSPCC Saturday 7 June, 12noon - 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice Reiki, Thai massage, reflexology, facial massage, make-overs, eyebrow threading, aromatherapy and more. Also crystals and jewellery Entry £2. Refreshments and raffle Wanborough Village Hall, The High Street, Wanborough In aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer

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Friday 13 June, 6pm - 9pm Summer Fete Stalls, activities, games, barbecue Catherine Wayte School Abbey Meads Thursday 19 June, 6pm Tour of Coleshill Organic Garden Coleshill, Near Highworth Saturday 21 June, 11am - 3pm Midsummer Fayre Games, stalls, raffle Saint Augustine Church, Summers Street, Rodbourne Saturday 21 June, 10am - 12noon Animal Charities Summer Fayre Many stalls and refreshments St Barnabas Church Hall Ferndale Road In aid of local and national animal charities Saturday 28th June, 11.30am Family Fun Car Treasure Hunt £10/car, max 5 people per vehicle Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Details from 614850 or lhaslam268@btinternet.com Starting at The Cold Harbour, Ermin Street, Blunsdon SN26 8DJ In aid of Cancer Research Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 June Open Garden & Model Railway Tombola, refreshments £1 entrance 52 Westrop, Highworth In aid of Wiltshire Air Ambulance & Cystic Fibrosis Research To make a donation call 765437 Saturday 5 July, 2pm to 5pm All Saints Church Garden Party Auction, stalls, cream teas.

The church with flower displays, and the bell tower will be open Manor House in Lydiard Millicent (behind the Church) In aid of the restoration of Maggie’s Cottage. Details from 771077

• Fine dining in casually elegant surroundings • Fantastic for any occasion • Chef ’s a la carte menu will provide a dinner to remember • Open Monday - Saturday evenings and Sunday lunch • See our web site for sample menus

A Sweet Taste of Summer Murder

Thursday 19th June Become a detective for the evening and solve the baffling case as it unfolds before you. Includes a set 4 course dinner at £35.00 per person

Swindon Wide

26

Four fantastic competitions to enter via www.swindonlink.com Win six hours of hilarity

I’m sorry I haven’t a clue is one of the funniest comedy programmes there has ever been on radio and the unexpected death of its brilliantly laconic presenter Humphrey Lyttleton has saddened millions of fans.

But here’s your chance to win the third collection of ‘Clue,’ 12 episodes of inspired nonsense.

BBC Audio have provided us with five copies worth £35 each; a collection that you’ll never ever get tired of.

In the ultimate antidote to panel games, what was your favourite?

Enter via www.swindonlink.com or write to the address on page 4.

Now Open

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Repairs to all bikes normally in 24 hours

Tel: 01793 431745

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See The Zutons at Westonbirt

Hot from recording their new album in LA, The Zutons are touring the UK for the first time in two years. And you can see them in the massive outdoor arena at The National Arboretum Westonbirt on Friday 20 June.

Thanks to the Forestry Commis- see this amazing band available at sion, we have two pairs of tickets to swindonlink.com

Go military online

One of the largest military shows in the UK takes place at Kemble airfield, near Cirencester, from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 June, and we have 4 pairs of tickets thanks to event organisers the Military Vehicle Trust (MVT).

With over 800 military and classic vehicles on display and an RAF flypast, as well as battle re-enactments, it will be a great day out. See the show details and how to win an entry ticket at swindonlink.com

Proms at Bowood

Enjoy a fantastic evening at Bowood House thanks to Easternbreeze and the London Gala Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Bell, with guest vocalist Juliette Pochin and tenor Lynton Atkinson.

A programme of popular classics, film themes, hits from the musicals and Proms favourites are promised, with a spectacular, choreographed firework and laser finale.

We have a pair of tickets for the concert on Saturday 5 July. Find out how you could be a winner at swindonlink.com • Get ready for Girls Aloud in the July Link.

June 2008 Cast Members of the Annual Year 7 Production - 2008 Joseph

BR A D O N FO REST SCHOOL WELCOME TO BRADON FOREST SCHOOL Bradon Forest is a successful school with a first-rate reputation serving North Wiltshire, North and West Swindon. In addition to our excellent examination results we are a very busy school offering a myriad of opportunities, both academic and extra-curricular. This brochure can only provide a flavour of all that we do at Bradon Forest. A visit to our website will provide you with easy access to information, photographs, videos and more via the eight easy to use buttons on our website homepage as shown below:

Bradon Forest Competition Comp petition Winners

Laura Per Laura Lau P Perrett erret rett tt wins wi wins ins the th he Sony Sony i l Poetryy Dayy prize p i BMG National

Young You g Enterprise E terp Enterp Ent pris i e Winners Winn Wi inners inners Young 2008 2008

Young Musician You Musici Musi Mus i ian Award ician Award Awa d Young 2008

The S Th Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s h lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Academic A d i R Record d Our 2007 GCSE 5+ A* - C performance measure was 66% with well over half of the 223 students gaining 8 or more A* - C grades with the majority gaining 10/11. The 2007 5+ A* - C, including English and Maths, was 58%. This year the number of A*/A passes was at a new record of 24% (2006 21%). Our Average Points Score per student was 413 maintaining the very pleasing high standards of the last few years.

Continued overleaf

Best Research Project Award Lego Robotics Competition

Bradon Forest Examination Results 2004 - 2007 2004

2005

2006

2007

5+ Higher Grade GCSE Passes (A* - C)

64%

70%

71%

66%

5+ Higher Grade GCSE Passes (A* - C inc. English/Maths)

52%

57%

56%

58%

Average Points Score per student

393

410

412

413

GCSE English

67%

79%

70%

73%

GCSE English Literature

58%

69%

69%

69%

GCSE Maths

63%

60%

63%

66%

Higher Grade Passes (A* - C) These, and other subjects, are taken by all Year 11s.

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

June 2008

“TH E CUR R I CUL UM I S GO OD BECAUSE I T I S BROAD , FL EX I BL E AND INTERESTING T O S T UD E N T S , EN ABL I NG THEM TO ACHI EV E WELL.” O F S T E D

The School’s Academic Record

2006

Stellar Performance by Bradon Forest

Continued from front page

Our three highest attaining students in 2007 all obtained 12 straight A* grades and a full A/S level in Maths at grade A! Those who had at least 8+ A*/A grades are listed: Rachel Blackford (BF)

12A*

Mathew Phillips (BF)

7A*, 5A

Sophie Madley (BF)

12A*

Thomas Drinkwater (TR)

7A*, 5A, 1B

Xinmei Wang (BF)

12A*

Roseanna Wike (StM)

7A*, 4A

Alyssia Booth (StS)

10A*, 2A

Daniel Titchener (StS)

5A*, 5A, 2B

Mohit Varma (BF)

9A*, 3A

Ellen Smith (StS)

4A*, 7A

The Link Magazine - 25/09/2007

Xinmei, Rachel and Sophie share The Corbett Cup, presented by Matt Edworthy, British Antarctic Survey

Rebecca Richards (BF)

9A*, 2A

Sally Proctor (StS)

2A*, 10A

Lydia Rogers (BF)

8A*, 3A

Rebecca Martin (BF)

4A*, 6A, 2B

Melissa Williams (TR)

3A*, 7A, 1B

Sarm Falaki (PM)

2A*, 6A, 3B

Carmel Anderson (StS)

2A*, 7A, 2B

Charlotte Ferm (StS)

2A*, 6A, 4B

Sam Bedry (SR)

3A*, 6A, 3B

Robert Miles (StM)

5A*, 3A, 3B

Felix Cowie (BF)

5A*, 4A, 3B

Roya Shahrokni (SR)

1A*, 7A, 4B

Steven Groom (SW)

2A*, 7A, 2B

Joseph Shipcott (BF)

3A*, 5A, 3B

Francesca Marshall (StM)

1A*, 8A, 2B

Leah Staples (BF)

3A*, 5A, 2B

Jessica New (StS)

3A*, 6A, 2B

Louise Symons (StM)

2A*, 6A, 4B

David Bray (StS)

2A*, 6A, 3B

Alex Tedstone (StM)

2A*, 6A, 3B

Luke Brewer (GH)

1A*, 7A, 3B

“Three students achieved straight A*s in all 12 of their GCSEs. Former Brook Field pupils, Xinmei Wang, Sophie Madley and Rachel Blackford, also earned an A grade each at Maths AS level. The three best friends had even more to celebrate, as Sophie's Food Technology result put her in the top 5 nationally and Rachel was in the top 10 for Business and Communication Systems.”

Headteacher Len Spiers said, “I am delighted with the success of all our students. It is a testament to all their hard work and also that of our excellent team of staff, both teaching and support, at Bradon Forest and the staff teams at our partner primary schools."

Key to Primary Schools represented: BF - Brook Field, StM - St Mary’s, StS - St Sampson’s, TR - Tregoze, Peatmoor - PM, Salt Way - SW, Shaw Ridge - SR, Grittleton House - GH

The ‘School Achievement’ button on our website provides access to detailed information on results of all subjects at Bradon Forest. It also compares Bradon Forest with schools within a ten mile radius, as well as local, regional and national results. www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

“The Curriculum

is good because it is broad, flexible and interesting to students,

enabling them to achieve well” (Ofsted 2006) At Bradon Forest we believe that all students should study a broad, balanced entitlement curriculum which also caters for individual interests and aptitude. Our website provides extensive information on the Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 curriculum at Bradon Forest and our results over the last four years with local, regional and national comparisons. “A particularly good aspect of the curriculum is the creative range of subjects offered to students in Key Stage 4” (Ofsted 2006). Key Stage 4 students can choose to specialise in any curriculum area. It is our policy to offer all academic subjects to the highest ability level available. We also offer students the opportunity of vocational learning through courses, GCSE or City and Guilds, at partner institutions. Students are following courses in: Catering, Motor Vehicles and Health and Social Care to name but a few. “… very strong links with the local business community, partner schools and a local college enable students to access a wide range of vocational and work based courses” (Ofsted 2006).

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

June 2008

“ T H E QU A L I T Y OF T EA CH I N G I S GOOD , ENGAGI NG STUD ENTS AN D ENABLING TH EM T O L EA R N W EL L AND M AKE GOOD PROGRESS.” O FS T E D

2006

Science, Technology, ICT and Business Science, Technology and ICT feature strongly at Bradon Forest.

All students study Science to GCSE either Triple Science (Physics, Chemistry and Biology), Double Science or Applied Science. Results are excellent across all Science courses. Our Triple Science results are superb - 97% of students studying Physics, Chemistry and Biology gained a higher grade pass (A* - C) and 49% achieved A*/A. Our impressive ICT infrastructure and resources are put to good use as all students study Business and Communication Systems (BCS) at GCSE with terrific results (A* - C = 94%, A*/A = 43%). ICT is also used extensively across the Year 7 WOW Show curriculum and we were invited by the Specialist Schools Trust to be a member of its national ICT register; we now advise schools regionally and nationally on ICT in education. Design Technology is also popular offering Technology courses in Product Design, Electronics, Food and Textiles. Again, results are very good with 75% gaining A*- C with 35% A*/A grades. The results in these subjects, as well as in Languages, Humanities, Arts, etc, are a testament to the ongoing success of Bradon Forest which is also reflected in the range of national quality marks we have been awarded in the last few years.

Out of Hours Learning The Out of Hours provision has continued to flourish and a range of clubs and societies are offered. On our website the ‘Out of Hours’ button will take you to links for the range of activities. Also, throughout the year, we offer a variety of subject specific GCSE clinics and subject enrichment activities, as well as an annual revision skills seminar for Year 11 students.

“Students have a wide range of opportunities to develop good social and cultural awareness, in lessons and through out-ofschool activities” (Ofsted 2006).

Our Out of Hours provision has been very successful and, in 2006, was recognised nationally under the Quality in Study Support (QiSS) Framework.

Our provision of free bus tickets for students involved in any Out of Hours/extra-curricular activities to go home using service buses was praised as an example of excellent practice.

Specialist School To get a feel for the arts at Bradon Forest, you need to visit our Theatre pages via the dedicated button on the front page of our website: www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk. These pages have been used as an example of good practice for schools nationally and you will see why. Here you will find a comprehensive list of events and gallery pages that illustrate the depth and range of the work produced at Bradon Forest.

This year we have had three music concerts, three artists’ workshops, eight professional theatre company productions and seven Bradon Forest shows. The facilities and resources enable the students to create art from their own inspirations.

Many of our

shows are produced, directed and even written entirely by the students! See our theatre pages by clicking the button at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk.

On the gallery pages you can see slideshows and videos which will surely tempt you into getting y o u r hands on a ticket!

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

June 2008

“ T H IS IS AN E F F E CT I VE A N D IM PROV I NG SCHOOL W HI CH PROV I D ES A GOOD Q UA L I T Y OF E D UCATI ON FOR I TS STUD ENTS.” O FS T E D 20 0 6

Sports and PE

Exemplary Work with

As part of the ‘School Sports Partnership’ we promote and develop student participation in sport and exercise both in and outside school. Students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular sporting activities and our teams compete in numerous interform and inter-school sporting tournaments at local, county, regional and national level with great success. Many students enjoy the different sports we offer and attend after-school sports clubs which have included: rugby and football for boys and girls, table tennis, athletics and cricket. Details of the many and varied successes of our teams can be found via the ‘Welcome to Bradon Forest’ button on our website. Recent successes included Swindon Netball Champions, Years 7, 8 and 9 teams; Swindon Hockey Champions, Years 7 and 8; Wiltshire Football C Champions, Years 7 a and 11; National B a s k e t b a l l C Champions, Year 9 ((2007); Swindon B a s k e t b a l l C Champions, Years 8 8, 9 and 11, and tthere are more!

our Partner Primary Schools

“ Relationships between students and staff are good, resulting in a positive working atmosphere in the school.” (Ofsted 2006) Bradon Forest has a very good record for student behaviour. Students are expected to behave in a responsible and socially acceptable fashion, treating others as they would wish to be treated. The pleasant atmosphere that we have at Bradon Forest is due to good manners and mutual respect. Students follow the basic rules that have been agreed and which are published in our Behaviour Policy. The Pastoral system comprises not only Heads of Key Stage but also Year Leaders who, together with parents, form a crucial partnership allowing students to develop into mature and confident young people.

Further development of our work with our Partner Primary Schools has been a major focus over the last few years. The work has been very positively received by primary colleagues and an impressive range of curricular projects has been developed. We have recently distributed our firstt issue of Bradon Forest Primary Liaison News which will be published three times a year. This is also available to view on the website. The newsletter illustrates the impressive range of projects undertaken and the degree to which Bradon Forest invests in partnership working with our primary colleagues. The curricular links have included English, Maths, Science, French, i & Technology, h l German, ICT, Drama, Music, A Art, Design Humanities and PE. The planning by primary and secondary colleagues has further developed the effective partnership required to enable a smooth and positive transition from primary to secondary school.

Did you know that Bradon Forest School is only minutes from Thamesdown Drive and West Swindon?

Visit www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk for more information about our successful school and impressive results or telephone our admissions clerk on 01793 770570 for further details.

(Please see our advert on page 5)

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

Swindon Wide

Everyone can offer something

National Volunteers Week - 1 to 7 June - is a good time to find out where you can apply your time and skills We have over 260 volunteer involving organisations registered with us and can help find an opportunity to suit you - whether you have a few hours spare a week or an afternoon a month, writes Alex Mullins, manager at Volunteer Centre Swindon.

You don’t need to bring specific Local organisations need volunteers to help others who are skills to volunteering - it’s as much young and not so young, people about gaining skills as sharing with physical or learning disabilities, them. We guarantee there will be people who are homeless, victims something of interest for everyone, of crime, or experiencing mental no matter what your interests, pasdistress, and people in hospitals, sions or time commitments.Why not give it a go? hospices and day centres.

For details call Volunteers Centre Maybe you have managerial, marketing or financial skills, in which Swindon on 420557, or drop in durcase you may be interested in find- ing weekdays between 11am and ing out about becoming a charity 3pm at 1 John Street, Swindon.

During Volunteer Week, meet voltrustee, or a school governor. Or maybe you’re a great listener and unteer centre staff in the town centre could spare an hour a week to help on Monday 2nd and Thursday 5th, out at a support group. Perhaps you Tuesday 3rd at Greenbridge Retail have an interest in the environment Park and Wednesday 4th at ASDA and conservation, or our heritage Walmart in North Swindon. www.do-it.org.uk and museums?

Mayor to meet cafe volunteers

Swindon’s new mayor Steve Wakefield will be presenting certificates to volunteers who help run the weekly community cafes at Toothill Church and Freshbrook Community Centre on 4 June.

He’ll be enjoying coffee and cake from 10am at Freshbrook Community Centre and will welcome anybody who has not yet tried the cafe which was awarded a maximum five stars by Swindon Council’s Environmental Health Department for the quality of its food preparation procedures.

Harry Potter casts a spell for MS Centre money

The dream of a new therapy facility for sufferers of multiple sclerosis has moved a few steps closer thanks to people who attended a huge charity auction in aid of the Swindon Therapy Centre for MS at the end of April.

Over a hundred items were auctioned and raised £10,000 towards the £500,000 needed to build and fit out the new centre at Rivermead in West Swindon.

Prizes included a Harry Potter book donated and signed by author JK Rowling, business class tickets to New York donated by M&C Saatchi and a quarter page advertisement in The Link.

“It was a fantastic, brilliant night,” said centre manager Jackie Wray.

“Over 200 people attended and we’d like to thank our auctioneer Albert Maslin, the band No Idea, and an army of volunteers from Alcatel-Lucent, Zurich and Arval who helped on the night.

“Our Moving Soon building fund now stands at £330,000. We’re getting there, but we need more help.”

The Swindon Therapy Centre is celebrating its 25th year and relies entirely on donations and fundraising and you can help the therapy centre get to their target by taking part in other fundraising events such as:

• The Ridgeway Walk - 20 miles from Avebury to Bishopstone on Saturday 21 June.

• Snowdon MS Challenge from 11 to 13 July. Join a team carrying someone with MS in a wheelchair over a 10k orienteering course.

If these two events are not for you: • sponsor Jackie and David Wray on the Ridgeway Walk at: www.justgiving.com/jackieanddavidwrayms • ‘buy’ a square foot in the new centre for £100; • organise your own fundraising event for the MS Centre For details call the centre on 481700 on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays, or 07734 322288. www.msswindon.org.uk • Marathon man makes it home for MS Centre - see page 41

31

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Swindon Wide

32

Taking messages from the past into the future

To coincide with Holocaust Memorial Day, the moving and highly relevant exhibition - Anne Frank+You - has been secured to visit the town in January 2009 by Swindon South MP Anne Snelgrove.

“World War II is receding into the ness from a distance on TV. The supported by North Swindon MP Aimed at young people aged ten upwards and adults, the cut- past, but we must never ever forget exhibition confronts discrimination Michael Wills and Swindon Council ting edge multi-media experience what happened to millions of people and how we include people in this leader Rod Bluh.

The MP explained that she had focusses on the diaries of Anne who were persecuted and killed country and the importance of debecause of their race, mocracy. Anne Frank’s diaries still asked for the exhibition to visit in Frank, the Dutch teen2008. “It’s such a prestigious edureligion or colour,” said resonate strongly.” ager who recorded her Anne Frank+You is closely related cational experience that we had to Anne, left. life in hiding with her fam“Anne Frank+You asks to many aspects of the national cur- take our turn. Anne Frank+You will ily in Amsterdam before us to consider where do riculum. To ensure that every Swin- give the people of Swindon the opthey were discovered in we all stand in relation to don child is able to get the most from portunity to share their thoughts on 1944 and sent to perish the holocaust and all the their visit, Anne is raising £25,000 issues which are as relevant today in Nazi concentration other terrible examples of from local businesses to cover the as they ever were.” camps.It includes a repThe exhibition is put on by Anne cost of staging the exhibition. It will repression since. lica of Anne Frank’s room Frank Trust UK in association with “But it’s not all about also be open to the public. where she wrote her She is working closely with a Anne Frank House, Amsterdam. what takes place in other diaries in secret before www.annefrank.org.uk countries which we wit- small group of organisers and is her capture.

the bigger picture Princess Anne discovered how Storysacks are used when she visited Westlea Primary School in June 1998 and her interest continues today.

In her role as President of the Basic Skills Agency, the Princess met sacks inventor Neil Griffiths who introduced her to parent volunteers who make them and user group representatives from across

Once upon a time, a princess visited Westlea Britain. “The visit of Princess Anne was one of the highlights of my life,” said Neil. “I was amazed that, with all she is involved in, she clearly knew so much about literacy in the home and the effect of Storysacks.

“She was a joy to be with and was clearly really interested. It meant so much to all those participants who came from all over the UK” Neil has fond personal memories

of the day as his parents, sister and partner, Scott, were there. His dad read a story to the Princess. “I have a picture at home of her and all my family listening to dad. As all but my sister have passed away, it is a precious memory.”

The Princess was so taken with the concept that she often takes the Storysack given to her at Westlea on official visits. As a result Neil

was invited to Canada and there are now Storysack projects across the country. They are also used in over fifty countries worldwide.

Neil added, “I’ve met Princess Anne several times in the last 10 years. She recently visited a school in Hereford and told them about us so she is just as enthusiastic about Storysacks today.” www.storysack.com

From the June 1998 Link, children welcoming Princess Anne to Westlea Primary School

Patchwork Quilting Day at

Ardecca COUNTRY RETREATS

Saturday 14th June 10am until 4pm Patchwork quilting, strip landscape and etuiboxes Bring your UFO’s Tea & coffee supplied Book your place and come and join us

Tel: 01793 721238 E-mail: chris-graham.ardecca@fsmail.net Fieldrise Farm, Kingsdown Lane, Blunsdon

Judith Blake and Sue Axon-Eves present the Princess with a Storysack

FANTASTIC CHINESE CUISINE AT TWO GREAT VENUES www.swindonrendezvous.co.uk

Swindon’s first 5 star Chinese Restaurant (Swindon Borough Council scores on the door)

Tuesday is for ladies £12.50 all you can eat (Ladies only at Le Rendezvous)

HHHHH

“A taste of the Orient in the heart of Swindon”

A la carte & our famous All You Can Eat Menu 7 days a week Choose from over 100 dishes from Sunday to Thursday £16 per person.

Fridays & Saturdays £19 per person and 20% OFF menu prices on all takeaways

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A fantastic new restaurant offering the best in oriental cuisine All You Can Eat Menu

Sunday & Tuesday to Thursday: £16 per person Fridays & Saturdays: £19 per person

Sunday lunch £12.50 all you can eat Private dining room for up to 20 guests Private free parking after 5pm (George Whites yard opposite)

36-39 Haydon Street, Swindon Telephone: 01793 526111

Available at both restaurants Reserve a table for your birth date

Free Bottle of wine

If a table is booked for 6 or more the birthday boy or girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free.

Birthday must be on actual day booked.

(Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner.

I.D. will be required)

Book a table for 4 and receive a FREE BOTTLE OF WINE for every 4 guests (Offer only available on all you can eat and set menu, please present this voucher when ordering.)

All offers shown above are subject to change without notice

Old Town Festival

34

A great retail opportunity in Old Town Have you thought of setting up a business but have been put off by sky high rentals and long lease commitments?

Here’s the chance to launch your idea without a huge outlay The Arcade in Wood Street, Old Town has small units available on a low deposit basis.

Minimum 6 month lease, from 9.48 square metres, from as little as £85 a week.

Old Town will be buzzing in the last week of June.

For those who rarely make their way to the oldest part of the town, this is a great opportunity to have some fun and discover the wide range of interesting shops there.

Kicking off the week of frivolity on Saturday 21 June will be an afternoon and evening of free music and dance from local entertainers hosted by BBC Radio Swindon’s Sandy Martin in the Town Gardens Bowl. A funfair, food

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Fun and games, parades and the

and drink will make it a great day out for the family.

Guided walks around Old Town are planned for Sunday 22 and Wednesday 25 June, and a Wild West evening takes place on Friday 27th at the Lawn. A barbecue and hog roast, plus cowboy vegetarian options will be available.

A shoot-out is promised and see how long you can stay on the bucking bronco to win a prize.

The traditional parade around the streets of Old Town on Saturday

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21st to 29th June

wild west during festival week

28 June always brings the crowds out. ITV Thames Valley presenter Hannah Shellswell and the Mayor of Swindon will launch the day at 12.15pm in Wood Street, before activities move to the Lawn. The afternoon will see entertainment, jazz, dog show, medieval and wild west re-enactments, archery, children’s rides, stalls, food court and beer tent and much, much more.

The evening will see first class jazz musicians playing in the marquee on the Lawn, complete with

35

licenced bar.

On Sunday 29 June the entertainment of the previous day moves to Town Gardens. In the Bowl the day starts at 11am with Songs of Praise followed by an afternoon of music until 6.30pm.

Brian Mattock, festival chairman, said Old Town is looking forward to welcoming Link readers. “If you’ve not visited Old Town, or haven’t been here recently, festival week is an excellent time to come along.” www.oldtownfestival.co.uk

TROUSSEAUX A collection of the finest in bridal design with couture from Ritva Westenius, London and other top designers.

Stunning bridesmaid and prom wear available with a dazzling range of sparkling accessories.

Tiaras, jewellery and an exquisite range of contemporary shoes, veils and designer millinery.

Trousseaux 10 Wood Street Swindon

01793 511099

36

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Get Active in June. Take part in:

Walking for Chernobyl kids

14th and 15th: Cancer Research Race for Life at Lydiard Park. For details: www.raceforlife.org

Going the distance for China bear rescue

1st: The Castles Bike Ride. 10, 19 and 25 mile cycle routes ride in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief. Start at Croft Sports Centre, Old Town at 10am.

Pre-registerd entry costs £5; on the day £10. Details from Jill Greenway on 521630 or online at: www.castlesbikeride.co.uk

Families involved in the Swindon branch of Chenobyl Children Lifeline will be taking part in the nightwalk organised by the Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown along the Ridgeway from Avebury to Bishopstone on 21 June.

Chairperson Gin McGiffin is looking for readers willing to walk to 7th & 8th: Five miles to Fabulous. 5 mile bike ride for women. Routes raise money so that CCLL can bring children from Belarus to Swindon on 7th start at the North Swindon District Centre, Coate Water and Shaw Ridge Primary School. On 8th rides start from Highworth Rec. and the in the summer and at Christmas.

The Rotary Club do not charge for taking part. All money raised goes Patriot Arms, Chiseldon.

Details from Tamina Oliver on 466315 or mail: toliver@swindon.gov.uk to charity. The route is fully marshalled and there is breakfast on offer from 4.30am in Bishopstone.

8th: Find your way round Swindon by bike. Fun, family cycle orienteerFor details call Gin McGiffin on 0775 3662891 or mail: ginmcgiffin@ ing event using the cycle network. Call Gladys Barr on 07951 712727 or aol.com mail: gladys.barr@swindon-pct.nhs.uk.

15th: British Heart Foundation Family Cycle Ride. Start anytime between 10am and 11.30am from Coate Water and return by 1pm. Call Sharon Woodford on 07909 546596 or mail: sharon.woolford@googlemail.com 29th: Para Challenge - Disability Sporting event. Contact Ben Humphrey on 617782 for details or mail: bhumphrey@swindon.gov.uk 29th: Wanborough Fun Run. Details from Sue Smith: sue@suesmith.info

Try-out events and the complete list of activities aimed at all ages and abilities can be found at www.challengeswindon.org.uk

Keep active: sign up for the half marathon

If the Festival of Sport gets you up and running, keep up the momentum by entering the Nationwide half marathon or fun runs on Sunday 12 October.

Young runners and beginners should be able to cope with the two mile fun run. All ages are welcome but children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult who has also entered the race.

At the next level, the five mile fun race covers a multi-terrain route through Coate Water Country Park whilst the Swindon half marathon takes runners through scenic countryside.

Register now at www.swindon.gov.uk/halfmarathon

Animal lover Leon Moore has set himself a gruelling challenge to raise money for rescued Moon Bears cared for by Animals Asia in China.

On Friday 13 June, Leon will run a half marathon, cycle 50 miles, swim 2.5 miles and round off the ordeal with 300 sit-ups, before attending a huge charity fundraising night for Animals Asia at the Pagoda Palace at Peatmoor. See the story on page 46.

Sponsor Leon’s huge efforts for charity at: www.justgiving.com/ leonschallenge

Book a round for CALM

There is still time to sign up for the 15th CALM Golf Day at Wrag Barn course near Highworth on Thursday 26 June.

The volunteers aim to support A range of competitions for men and lady golfers will be followed by the whole family both during treatment and in the difficult pea prize draw and auction.

The event is a major feature in riod following treatment, or after the CALM fundraising calendar. bereavement.

For details of the golf day mail: At any one time there are over 20 local children having treatment for calmgolf2008@live.com www.calmcharity.org cancer or leukaemia.

See the carpet or floor covering of your choice, where it will be laid, next to your other furnishings.

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

37

Boxing clever to combine studies with sport

Ryan Martin is British school boy boxing champion in his category, but, as well as beating his opponent, the growing fourteen year old has to fight to keep his weight under 60kgs for competitions.

Before the Three Nations tournament, Ryan had to starve for two days to make the weight.

He likes his food, especially his grandmother’s cooking, and he wants to be allowed to move up to the 63kg category for the England v Ireland international in June. But his coaches are keen that he fights at 60kg for as long as possible because a move up would mean facing older and stronger opponents.

Mum Vincey said that she is very nervous for Ryan before a bout, but once it starts she becomes totally involved and cheers him on. However Ryan is unfazed. “I’m not afraid of Greendown to benefit from their Jugetting into the ring. I know my fam- nior Athlete Education Programme. ily, especially my mum, get stressed Youngsters who are pursuing high but it’s no problem for me.” level sports and performing arts are He started training at the age allocated a mentor to help them balof six and had his first fight aged ance extra-curricular activity with eleven. The Greendown pupil trains their studies. The school offers flexat the Walcot club which produced ibility with coursework deadlines, Jamie Cox and looks set to have an organises catch-up lessons and use equally successful career. He has of the independent learning suite won eleven of his fourteen fights for extra studies. Youngsters are and is waiting to hear whether he also allocated training sessions in will represent England in the Eu- the fitness suite. ropean Championships in Croatia “It’s fantastic how the school is later this year. In the long term, he helping Ryan,” said his dad, Lee. has his sights set on the 2012 London “They’ve given him every chance Olympics when he’ll be 18. to get on in his sport and educaRyan is one of fourteen pupils at tion.”

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

Gymnasts hope to pick up medal winning tips in China

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Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 Home visits available

Five boys from Swindon School of Gymnastics will fly to China in October for intensive training at the renowned Shichahai Sports School.

Based in Beijing, the school is Swindon School one of the main training centres of Gymnastics has for future generations of China’s over seventy boys Olympic hopefuls. It trains thou- regularly attendsands of youngsters who board ing the club, based at the school and are dedicated to on the Isis Indussports including gymnastics, table trial Estate. The tennis, volleyball and badminton. gym, run entirely When they graduate, students join by volunteers, is provincial or national teams. the only one in the The Swindon gymnasts, aged area with a full set between 11 and 13 will have a taste of apparatus for of the tough regime, training for six male gymnasts and to seven hours a day during their has been successten day stay. ful in producing a number of National Squad and Regional Champions. Coach, Paul Turner, said that although only five boys can go to Eastern promise for young gymnasts, from left, Izaac Turner, China, their experi- Beyn Hyner, Oliver Shakles, Chris Jones, Peter Newton ence will benefit the whole club. of fundraising events including a “They will be working with top Bombay Lounge curry night on 20 level coaches who will give our September. coaches ideas for training back at They would like to hear from any the club. It’s a fantastic opportunity local businesses willing to sponto go somewhere that has produced sor the gymnasts to benefit from several Olympic champions.” the opportunity to train at such a The club is raising £7,000 for high level. the trip and is holding a series www.ssg-gymnastics.co.uk

Teams do well in tournaments

The footballers at Brook Field Primary School continued their good run of form by winning the West Swindon tournament for the third year in a row.

They beat St Sampson’s Cricklade in the final of the annual tournament organised by Greendown Community School.

In the netball competition St Sampson’s beat Toothill Primary.

In the Swindon primary schools hockey tournament held at Isambard Community Peatmoor coach Belinda Kidd, with her players and their School, the mixed medals, back, Sam Orchard, Poppy Gibson, Keegan Lane, team from Peat- Luke Matthews, George Russ, Freyja Stevens. Front, Bethani moor Primary beat Crouch, Tom Sewell, Hannah Curtis, Jackson Price Abbey Meads Primary. Both hockey teams will now represent the town at the Wiltshire Youth Games in June.

The Brook Field champs.

Back, left to right, Max Parker, George Corfield, Joe English, Harry Knowles, Tom Jones Front, Liam Jefferies, Joe Pearce, Luke Neves, Taylum Mistry

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Footcare in your home Corns • Calluses Verruca • Foot massage Nail infections Thickened skin & nails Medical pedicure

Visiting Practice Appointments by Arrangement Debbie Francis

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■ Home visit service ■ Routine foot and nail care, fungal infections, thickened nails, corns, calluses, verruca, hard skin removal, foot massage ■ Day, evening and Saturday appointments

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Reflexology Massage Reiki, EFT, Ear Candling

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Deborah Goodge Call today: 01793 870426 Nine Elms, Swindon www.holistic-therapy-clinic.co.uk

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ASHTANGA YOGA & PILATES COURSES Pilates classes Shaw Mon: 6 - 7pm Shaw Mon: 7 - 8pm (Beg) 24 Hour Gym Tues: 10 - 11am Cricklade Tues: 6.30 - 7.30pm Priory Vale Wed: 7.30 - 8.30pm Taw Hill Thurs: 6 - 7pm

Yoga Classes Cricklade Mon: 7.30 - 8.45pm Priory Vale Tues: 6.30 -7.30pm (Beg) Priory Vale Tues: 7.30 - 9pm

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40

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Breakthrough Breast Cancer benefits from volunteer efforts

The Mad March Hare on 30 March raised nearly £12,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

The 10k race, 5k power walk and family fun run around Lydiard Park started from Greendown School and was organised by volunteers from the Swindon Twin Peaks walking team in memory of cancer victim Irene Hare.

Members of the Hindu Samaj took part and presented the Mad March Hare fund with a cheque for £900. Eight members of the Samaj will be taking part in the Edinburgh Moonwalk on 14 June.

Some 150 men and women from Swindon Twin Peaks took part in the London Moonwalk in aid of Breakthrough on 17 May. To fund coaches to take the walkers to the capital a quiz night at the Oasis Leisure Centre raised £1,200.

• Charity curry night in aid of Breakthrough at the Bombay Lounge on Monday 2 June. Call 887799 to book a table.

Sushma Patel presents Twin Peaks coordinator Eunice Salmon with £900 raised after the Mad March Hare, with members of the Samaj and Twin Peaks walkers Below, Stan Pajak receives his raffle prize won at the Twin Peaks Moonwalk quiz night from B&Q general manager Nathan Pickett, the Mayor Michael Barnes and

Purton House Church End Purton, Swindon Tel: 01793 772287

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Real food from a farm near you Call for details about our Organic Box Scheme Deliveries & drop off points in Swindon, Cirencester, Wootton Bassett, Broad Hinton, Marlborough, Wroughton Farm shop open: Wed and Thurs 9.30am-1.30pm & 2.30pm-5pm www.purton-house.co.uk

B&Q boys wear bras for Breakthrough General manager Nathan Pickett and other male staff will be wearing Twin Peak bra T-shirts over the bank holiday weekend 24 May to 26 May in return for donations.

Cambridge Slimmer of the Year 2007 and Cambridge Slimmer of the Year’s Counsellor Spot the difference !

Tracey Broderick & Nicky Gibbs

Between us we have successfully lost over 16 stone on The Cambridge Diet and have now teamed up to help others achieve the same success. The Cambridge Diet has changed our lives for the better and it can change yours.

No Large Initial Cost/No Contract Attend one of our weekly drop-in sessions at: Abbey Meads School – Wednesday 6.30pm to 8.30pm Even Swindon Community Centre – Wednesday 9am to 11am Free Parking available One to one sessions available.

Drop in and discover The Cambridge Diet or call TRACEY on 01793 521761 OR NICKY: 01793 721408 email: cambridge_swindon@hotmail.co.uk

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Marathon wonder people

It’s takes a huge amount of dedication to prepare for and run the London marathon.

Here are five who have been featured in The Link over the last few months. If you have pledged money to them, please pay up soon.

Anna Richardson from Abbey Meads completed the course in 4 hours and 56 minutes and enjoyed every minute of the day. She raised £2,000 for Shelter, which included £205 raised from a non-uniform day at Peatmoor Primary School.

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J ARTHUR BOWERS MULTIPURPOSE COMPOST 70LTR Anna with Peatmoor youngsters Jackson Price, Joshua Curtis, Theo Elderfield, Charlotte Williams

Link advertiser Les Slinn ran for St John Ambulanceand raised £1,250.

Linzi Matthews of Thameswood Ve t s , b e l o w, would like to thank all clients who helped her raise £1,300 for the RSPCA. I a n Wi l liams from Peatmoor, below, ran for the Swindon M S C e n t re Moving Soon Appeal and raised £2,411 towards their new building.

Julie Chamberlain from Westlea, below, completed the course in 6 hours, 5 minutes and 11 seconds.

She was running on the twentieth anniversary of the death of her four week old son David and raised £1,500 for the Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths.

Although she vowed to never do it again, she’s reconsidering her decision.

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41

42

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Becky’s Small Animal Care Leave your small animals (except dogs)

with us while you are away House sitting.

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Pets At Home Worried who will look after your pet whilst you’re on holiday?

Pets At Home could be your answer

Business fully insured. Police checked Pick up service within 10 mile radius

Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only

Contact Becky on 01793 642403 or 07870 849351 e: beckylay@hotmail.co.uk

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 01793 873062 email: sm4hannahlightfoot@talktalk.net

“Making life better for you and your pet” Care - always Compassion - for you and your pet Communication - we listen

Continuity - of care throughout your pet’s life Cost - good value, great offers

Leading by example at puppy skool

Recruiting a new head girl for her dog training school in Haydon Wick meant a trip to Ireland for Janet Garrett to make sure that the latest staff member had just the right pedigree. be sure that the dog’s After a lengthy intemperament will be terview, Riff, a Bouright for the school. As vier des Flandres well as being stunning puppy, was hired for to look at, Bouviers the job of making visihave the perfect inteltors feel welcome to ligence for training.

Janet’s Puppy Skool A striking blonde at Haydon Wick Farm with a black mask, House.

Riff has very unusual “As she becomes colouring for a Bouvier trained herself, she making her unique in will eventually be Swindon and possibly able to demonstrate the various fun exercises we use,” across the whole of the South West. said Janet, who has owned a suc- Her musical name harks back to cession of the impressively big Blue’s pedigree name which was Rhosfaelog Maestro and is also breed.

For Janet knowing the family a reference to Janet’s son Lewis background justified the lengthy whose band, Teabo, are regulars trip to see the litter of four week at Riff’s Bar. www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk old pups. Their grandmother was the mother of Blue, Janet’s beloved rescued Bouvier who became a well Fun dogs in the park known character around Swindon.

Sunday 6 July Blue was a regular at Earls Court Lydiard Park and the NEC in the Gold Good Lots of fun classes such as prettiest Citizen Demonstration team.

The puppy’s father is also father bitch, most handsome male, wagto the current darling of the Puppy gist tail, best junior handler, and new this year: best doggy tricks.

Skool: two year old Gus. For entry details call the RSPCA The line of breeding is very important to Janet so that she can North Wilts branch on 640136.

Convenience - a clinic near you Car parking - plenty!

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Tel: 01793 526780

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Saturday 9am - 12noon Call for details

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74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

Professional friendly service in a large modern salon for every aspect of your dog’s grooming needs Collection & delivery service Appointments not always necessary

Ring Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633 www.hairofthedoguk.net

swindonlink.com • June 2008

43

Getting ready to run flag up the mast

The Mayor of Swindon Steve Wakefield will visit Peatmoor Primary in June to help pull their eco-flag up the newly installed flag pole.

Peatmoor was the second in Swindon to win coverted eco-school status in 2007 and has continued its commitment to environmental education and positive practical activity.

This year children have developed a vegetable garden and are busily growing potatoes in recycled tyres. Their best crop will be entered into an International Year of the Potato schools competition. On World Environment Day on 5 June children will be helping to redevelop the school pond.

Get ready for future floods

Be aware of where to report pollution

In April a minor environmental disaster was averted by Environmental Agency Vale Team based in Wallingford when two oil spills into Whitehill stream were reported by an alert member of the public.

Officers swung into action with booms and oil absorbent pads to prevent pollution spreading to the newly established River Ray wetland habitat.

The agency is the leading public body for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales by regulating waste businesses, promoting good environmental practice and by responding to incidents which could harm the environment or wildlife.

Time is of the essence when a spillage takes place and the EA is appealing for readers to be aware of its pollution hotline number.

Most incidents are the result of a pollutant entering a surface water drain, anything from paint to cooking oil. Once in the drains, it will always find its way to a watercourse.

Environment officer Emma Bateman said, “due to the complicated nature of some of the drains in Swindon, water pollution can be very difficult to trace.

“We are still investigating the possible causes of the Whitehill stream incident, but it is vital that if the public see pollution they call us immediately to give us the best possible chance of tracing the source, prevent it spreading where we can and take action against those responsible for polluting the watercourse.

“It’s also very important for our environment that the only liquid that goes down a surface water drain is water.”

The Environment Agency’s free 24 hour Pollution Hotline is 0800 80 70 60.

Ready to run up their flag Anahita Falaki, Joe Dobson, TA Elaine Jackson, Hannah Curtis, Lauren Hoard, Sam Orchard, Jackson Price, Poppy Gibson, Abigail Rule, Ella Greenwood, Nathan Collins, Kate Rayment

It’s nearly a year after the huge floods that affected so much of Swindon and Swindon Council, the Environment Agency and the National Flood Forum are organising a Flood Fair on Wednesday 18 June, 2pm to 7pm, at the STEAM museum to prepare for similar extreme events.

• pick up a range of information Visitors will be able to: • check if their home or business and check out useful websites ; • examine the range of domestic is in a flood risk area • develop a flood plan for their own flood defence devices on the market. home or business; Entry is free and anyone attend• find out about flood warning ing can also claim free parking and services and how to sign up; • get advice on practical steps to have a look round STEAM. www.floodforum.org.uk protect homes from flooding;

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

Are you prepared to be a guider?

Girls across North Swindon are queuing up to become Guides, Brownies or Rainbows and District Commissioner Chris Fisher is calling for volunteers to lend a hand with setting up new units. be a person on their own and to do Leaders need no previous ex- opportunity to meet a wide variety house.

Chris said that guiding has something away from their family. perience and most training can be of people. Training from the Guides completed while working with the Association also stands you in good moved with the times to offer girls It gives them character and they a range of exciting opportunities. make friends.” girls at their weekly meetings. “It’s stead in the work place.”

Call Chris Fisher on 723584.

There are waiting lists for all units “Guiding gives them the chance to not too daunting if you have the support of a team and the existing and there is a particular need in Chris Fisher, back left, with brownies and guides and their leaders at Abbey Meads leaders have all offered to help,” North Swindon. At present, there is said Chris. “Typically, guiders need a Brownie pack at Taw Hill and most to be able to spare two hours a week of the children will want to become for meetings and one more evening guides if there was a group.

All three age ranges are catered a term for planning.

“As well as giving something to for at Abbey Meads and there are the girls, the volunteers gain friend- enough girls to start Rainbow, ships with other leaders and the Brownie and Guide units at Red-

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New gardens to view in the West

The annual West Swindon Open Gardens in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer will feature 8 gardens never revealed before in the six years the project has been running.

Gardens will be open on 14 and 15 June, 11am to 5pm, and will also feature cream teas in Old Shaw Lane (west), as well as a raffle and plants for sale.

Entry tickets cost £3 from Lesley Dredge on 772869 or from participating gardens marked with purple balloons.

Car parking is available at the Nine Elms pub which will be making a donation from a Father’s Day lunch served on 15 June.

Move aside Dermot Gavin!

Designer and builder Jeff Hobbs will be showing off his spectacular garden for the first time.

Jeff runs Blueprint Garden Design and has applied some of his fascinating contemporary ideas to his backyard in Sparcells

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swindonlink.com • June 2008

SKI’S TREES

TREE SURGEON

Lawn & garden maintenance Hedge cutting & planting Tree planting & pruning Weeding & much more

Tel: 01793 486507 Mob: 077382 98004

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Highworth Landscapes

Electrical & Building Services Est. 1977

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

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46

swindonlink.com • June 2008

Mobile Car Repairs

GARY VARDY Motorcycle Repairs Servicing & Tuning

• • • • • • • •

30 years experience Factory trained Honda • Suzuki Kawasaki • Yamaha

Call (01793) 481008 Mob: 07787 183719

Servicing Repairs Brakes Exhausts M.O.T. Free call out No VAT Engine diagnostics

Slater’s Mobile Services

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Mobile Car Servicing & Repairs ★ Electronic tuning ★ Welding ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee)

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

Tel: (01793) 840667

Things might be getting tighter for enterprise but that’s when businesses need to look at their operations to become leaner and more relevant to their target markets and future viability.

And operating out of competitively priced, flexible accommodation must be considered, which is where Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea has an advantage.

On Wednesday 11 June, 2pm to 6pm, manager Bev Reynolds and her team will be meeting anyone who is thinking of starting up on their own, or is looking for office space on easy-in easy-out terms. Business Link advisers and a business banking manager will also be on hand to discuss new ventures.

Basepoint, located on Rivermead Drive behind the Spectrum building, currently hosts a huge range of businesses. Find out why they are succeeding by dropping in on 11 June. For details call 608800. www.basepoint.co.uk

Organisers bowled over by response to banquet for bears

A sell-out dinner at Pagoda Palace restaurant on 13 June will be the biggest in the UK for the Moon Bear charity, Animals Asia.

The charity’s founder, Jill Robinson, will speak to an audience of 190 diners, including MEP Glyn Ford, at the start of her national tour.

Thanks to the infectious enthusiasm of event co-ordinator, Sarah Chilvers, and coverage in The Link since she and husband Dave travelled to China to visit the sanctuary last October, all places were sold by the end of April.

An appeal for mittens in the March Link and a charity curry Dave and Sarah with Jill Robinson at the Moon night at the Bombay Lounge Bears sanctuary in October 2007 later that month led to a wave of working to end bile farming. After interest in the charity’s work and a gruelling month when the sanctuary saw eleven bears die within days boosted ticket sales.

A visit to the Animals Asia bear of arrival, Sarah hopes the show of sanctuary in China last year, spurred support from Swindon will lift Jill’s Sarah and her husband Dave into spirits and give her inspiration.

“I think she’s going to be absoorganising the gala dinner. Diners will sit down to a vegetarian ban- lutely bowled over,” said Sarah. quet followed by an auction led by “This will be the biggest ever fundraiser in Britain.”

TV celebrity, Paul Martin.

“My aim was to get as many people there as possible for half an hour China earthquake worries to hear Jill because of the impact she Jill cut short her USA speaking tour has,” said Sarah. “When you hear in mid-May to return to the sanctuary to see if her staff and the bears her talk you want to help.”

Jill Robinson’s blog on the Ani- are safe.

Read her blog for the latest situamals Asia website details the harrowing work of the charity which is tion at www.animalsasia.org

I N D E P E N D E NT

BMW & MERCEDES SPECIALISTS • Fixed Price Service & Inspection • Full Diagnostic Service • Full Air Conditioning Service

Open 8.30am 5.30pm

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

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Basepoint plans to boost your business

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PC AUTOCARE

01793 772542 www.pcautocare.co.uk

Unit 1, Bagbury Park, Lydiard Millicent

swindonlink.com • June 2008

47

Best of youth culture at North Swindon fun day

Hoping to combat negative impressions of young people in North Swindon, Swindon Youth Service is organising a fun day on Saturday 28 June, 10am to 5pm, for the whole community.

There will be family activities, including a bouncy castle, stalls, circus entertainers and a barbecue at North Swindon District Centre.

The Flux bus and Swindon Community Radio 105.5FM will be on site and Swindon Music Service will run a battle of the bands competition with £100 worth of Rock and Roll store vouchers at stake.

Youth worker Rob Todd will undergo an extreme and potentially painful makeover. He is being sponsored to have his head shaved and legs waxed, followed by full

Cinders, as you’ve never seen it before

The dream of two girls at the Underground Youth Centre at North Swindon Centre is coming closer by the week.

makeup session by young people at the Underground Youth Centre.

Staff from Starbucks are supporting the event to raise funds for Care International. Each branch has been set the challenge of raising £1,000 for the charity which works with children in Africa. Money raised during the fun day will be divided between Care International and a local community charity.

Youth worker, Carole Anne Rapson said that young people feel they are not always treated fairly at North Swindon Centre and are being held responsible for the bad behaviour of a few youngsters. “We’re trying to quash those perceptions. Young people are our future; we hope to bring together all age groups from the elderly to toddlers and to promote the Underground youth club.”

Donations of raffle prizes would be welcome. Call Carole Anne on 07766 368388. To enter the battle of the bands call Paul Ashman 0791 225 3300 by 31 May. The day is being put on with help from Asda Walmart.

Free youth Rock the Planet festival organised by ncounter in Lydiard Park on 12 June. See page 54.

Grey Skills

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Emma Burkitt and Kim Curtis, above, were featured in the April Link appealing for other young people to help them put on their version of Cinderella.

Now twenty young cast and crew are rehearsing with help from drama practitioner Rebecca Lloyd from Swindon Artsmad who is helping them to focus on what they have to do to put the show on in early July.

Youth worker Carol-Anne Rapson said the project is ‘fantastic.’ “I can’t wait to get to the Underground for rehearsals; it’s so exciting and so much fun. Emma and Kim are doing a brilliant job coordinating the group.

Three performances of Cinders with a twist are planned on Tuesday 1 to Thursday, 3 July.

Targetted, relevant, time rich advertising Make your message work harder via Swindon’s closest read publication Call Nic Norridge on 01793 602540

48

D & M Enterprises

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Give us a try. For a free no obligation quote, call Jeff on 07747 606344 or Vito on 07812 180535

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Trevor Wyse Painter & Decorator

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Milestone Building Services

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ABLE PROPERTY SERVICES (WILTSHIRE) LIMITED

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0777 574 8682

49

J’s Electrical

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• • • • • • • •

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Email: mark.cryer@ntlworld.com

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

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Home Handyman for all those little jobs around the home

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

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Lydiard Home Services www.lydiard.biz

Need an electrician?

For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace

Plumbing & heating services

n Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits n House rewires & extensions n Garden lights & sockets, pond pumps n Wiring for log cabins, garages, sheds n Electrical inspection & testing n Portable appliance testing n Part P registered

No call out charge No job too small • Fully insured Call Chris Bray on 01793 702171 Mob: 07951 219908 e: aps-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

07974 711962 01793 812303 Amalia Electrical Services Ltd

Electrical

Professional electrical services for domestic and small business.

From a single socket to a complete rewire.

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From dripping taps to complete bathroom installations 24/365 emergency service

Call James Nicholls

50

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

MERLIN I Quality bathroom suites fitted TILING ELECTRICS

m OORING ALL TAKEN CARE OF I All types of plumbing undertaken LEAKING TAPS

PUMPS TANKS BURST PIPES

MACHINES INSTALLED

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&REE ESTIMATES

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!PPROVED 0LUMBER

DECORATOR

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

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ain

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

JOBS NEED DOING AROUND THE HOUSE?

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EP

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

HANDYMAN

ter

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

ID

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

PR

PAINTING AND DECORATING

&D eco rat or

DECORATOR

HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating

Most jobs undertaken No job too small Friendly, reliable and honest service provided Insured and guaranteed work Free estimates

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Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

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Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Outside taps Power showers Bathrooms & tiling 2EG

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLASTERING

CHRIS ANGELL PLASTERING PLASTERING All aspects of plastering, rendering and dry lining undertaken #LEAN TIDY RELIABLE

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BATHROOMS

RSB K

ATHROOMS ITCHENS

BUILDING SERVICES &

FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

Wall & Floor Tiling

Galaxy Construction Ltd 4 4 4 4 4

Extensions Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving

For a free estimate Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361 www.rsbathrooms.com

For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

DECORATOR Exterior Painting

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

Fascias, soffits, windows, doors and rendering Also interior decorating High quality workmanship Reliable service References available Call Paul Comer on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236 for a free quotation

HEATING & PLUMBING

s )NTERIOR EXTERIOR PAINTING AND DECORATING s 7ALLPAPER s 4ILING s #OVING

s ,AMINATE m OORING

s $OORS SKIRTING

REPLACEMENT

s +ITCHEN s "ATHROOM

INTERNAL ALTERATIONS .O JOB TOO SMALL s 2OOMS LEFT TIDY DAILY Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

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Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

tCentral heating installations tAll Plumbing work undertaken tServicing & repairs tBathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

PLUMBING Select Plumbing Services Repairs, maintenance or new installation at a competitive price

s %VERYTHING FROM A NEW TAP WASHER TO A COMPLETE BATHROOM SUITE s .O JOB IS TOO SMALL s .O CALLOUT CHARGE s &REE ESTIMATES For a professional, reliable service, contact us now Tel: 01793 875888 Mobile: 07951761764 www.selectplumbingservices.co.uk

20 years experience in plumbing work

s #ENTRAL HEATING s "ATHROOMS

SHOWERS s #OMPETITIVE RATES s !LL WORK GUARANTEED s .O JOB TOO SMALL For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

PLUMBING

2EG

51

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DOUBLE GLAZING

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

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

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

CARPENTRY

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

Free estimates Jamie Scanlon 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN

SAFE & SHAW

Arc Electrical Services Ltd

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Windows, Doors, Conservatories

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

01793 611398 07968 757860

HOME MAINTENANCE

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

Please call 07769 883717

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01793 872054 0770 480 1959

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Steve George

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

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(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

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30 years experienced tradesman

ROOFING

TILING

GILES BROS L Felt

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roofing L Asphalt roofing L Sheet roofing L Tiling L Slating L Single Ply L Fascia L Guttering

FLOORING

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

N I CF

arcelectrics@aol.com

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

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CARPENTRY

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

G G G

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

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National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers

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MAINTENANCE

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions

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TILING

TileSure CERAMIC TILING

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52

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES MagicSat Ltd EUROPEAN SATELLITE SPECIALISTS

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CHRIS PAYNE

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s .%#+ 0!). s "!#+ 0!). s (%!$!#(%3 s 30/243 ).*529 s #!2 !##)$%.4

Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you.

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-EMBER OF THE #HIROPRACTIC IS A NATURAL AND SAFE APPROACH TO HELP THE PROBLEMS ABOVE "RITISH #HIROPRACTIC AND MANY MORE SUCH AS KNEE AND ELBOW PAIN REPETITIVE STRAIN

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MINI BUS HIRE

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WINDOW CLEANING

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CARPET CLEANING The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

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TILING

53

L. J. TILING

PARTY CATERING Thai Cuisine Tel: 07957 591324

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• walls and floors • kitchens • bathrooms • conservatories Call Leon for a free, no obligation quote on:

e-mail: pasara@live.co.uk

01793 524147 or 07919 255673

PS PAINTING & DECORATING .O JOB TOO SMALL s &REE ESTIMATES

Also general maintenance Call Phil on 724541 Mobile: 07790 102280

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

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

COMPUTER SUPPORT Com Master’s PC Repairs

Why go anywhere else?

When we’ll come to you.....

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

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

vacancy for a clerk to the governing body

Do you have organisation, minute taking, and report writing skills, good verbal and written communication skills and experience as an administrator?

Benefits: Averaging 2.5 hours per week (for meeting preparation, evening attendance and follow up). Scale 4/5 Permanent Contract

For details or an application pack call Mrs Preet Cook on 01793 727405 Closing date for applications Friday 13th June

Catherine Wayte Primary School, Elstree Way, Abbey Meads, SN25 4TA

OVEN CLEANING

OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time.

Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

get ready for digital CALL US NOW Free quotes. We will beat

any genuine quote by 5%

Digital aerials and free view boxes supplied for DIY and fitted Same day service on calls before 1pm

FREE ADVERTS @ www.swindonlink.com Advertise in Swindon's most closely read publication and get a free business listing @ www.swindonlink.com Call Nic Norridge 01793 602540 ;>P?LNCMCHA QCNB CGJ;=N

Fully trained engineers 15% discount for Senior Citizens Telephone extensions from £25

Transcable Aerials 0800 3285016

tter TV! e b u o y g in r We b www.transcable.co.uk

54

swindonlink.com • June 2008

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

Sunday services are at 10am & 6.30pm

For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org

“the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23)

Rock the Planet at Lydiard

Over 1,000 people are expected to take part in a festival for young people and families in Lydiard Park on Saturday 12 July.

Organised by ncounter and own 4-piece girl band, Collective, organisers in getting stands and sponsored by West Swindon based will finish the evening with their props organised and decorated, or power company npower, the event own brand of high energy pop. if you want to enter the battle of is free to anyone from Swindon and Battle of the bands auditions the bands, find the details at: www.

North Wiltshire. will be taking place during June. rocktheplanet.org.uk Planned for the afternoon from To join the main stage hip hop Or call Hanna Koning on 2pm are a fashion show, dance dance troupe, work alongside the 849425. and craft workshops and open air painting. There will also be a huge bouncy castle, the chance to enjoy a good water fight and a volleyball Throughout history, art has been a customary way of celebrating the competition. glory of God and pupils of St. Francis’ Primary School, Taw Hill, have At 6pm local performers will be continued the tradition by painting stained glass windows representon the main stage, and ncounter’s ing parables.

Parables in stained glass at St Francis

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.45am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

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

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am Traditional communion service 11am Eventful, contemporary worship

with children’s groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Alex Walker with Year 6 artists

Visiting artist Alex Walker organised the project, conceived last year by headteacher Clive Westall, in which all pupils were encouraged to participate.

“Each class picked a Biblical story,” said Alex. “I worked with them to make an illustration of the story which was then transposed onto glass around and above the main doors to the school hall.”

She was helped by groups of four children at a time who applied paint to panes close to the floor.

Alex said she enjoyed working in the school. “The pressure of the curriculum can limit creativity;

there’s not a lot in the school day that is process-led. My mission is to help children learn more by using their imagination.

“Working in St. Francis’ was refreshing. It’s fantastic to go to a school with such an emphasis on creativity. The children had the chance to do something really unusual through this project.”

Pupil Kyra Jenkins said, “Alex put our designs together to make a masterpiece.”

Classmate Josh Dibble said, “the new stained glass has lots of little pictures; it shows that Jesus is always there for us.”

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

Buy your house with a mouse.

Guernsey Meadow – Taw Hill 01793 709090 Oakley Park – East Swindon 0845 026 4157 The Ridings – Taw Hill 0845 026 4187 Summermead – Oakhurst 0845 026 4169

Royal Mead – Old Town 0845 026 4163

Coming soon…

George Wimpey @ Wichelstowe – off Croft Road, opposite the Wroughton Park & Ride

01793 898 228

for advanced information

georgewimpey.co.uk Normal George Wimpey terms and conditions apply.

New homes just released for sale at Guernsey Meadow!

IN SWINDON

Summer is here and what better way to relax than a round of golf at one of Swindon’s four courses - just turn up and play!

• All ages and abilities welcome • Lessons and courses with a Golf Professional at Broome Manor and Highworth • Driving range at Broome Manor • Golf shop at Broome Manor & Highworth • Save money with a Golf Passport

www.swindon.gov.uk/golf Broome Manor Golf Complex - 9 & 18 hole Highworth Golf Centre - 9 hole

Moredon Par 3 - 9 hole Coate Water - Pitch & Putt

Broome Manor Golf Complex, Pipers Way, Swindon SN3 1RG

Enquiries: 01793 495761

Bookings: 01793 532403