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No. 178

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March 1997

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Circulation 16,500

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Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park & Abbey Meads

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As this magazine is distributed to the newer parts of Swindon, knowledge of the town's past may be sketchy. There is a proud history which needs to be shared with people who have arrived from all over the country and from abroad. Some of this history reappears this month when part of the old railway works opens as a tourist shoppers paradise. In a few years, with an £8.7 million National Lottery grant, more works buildings will be turned into a railway heritage centre. And in April, the railway works will be the scene for a world premier of the 'Swindon Symphony,' music written to mark the start of New Swindon, when the town takes back many of the local authority responsibilities it lost over 20 years ago. On Monday 10 March, The Link invites all readers to a talk on Old Swindon, illustrated with slides, by David Bedford of the Swindon Society. Members of the New Mechanics Institute will also be on hand to talk about their efforts to bring life back to Swindon's forgotten town centre landmarks.

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The Link Magazine • March 1997

City for the 21st Century?

MAUREEN PEARSON A.T.T.

As Swindon prepares to take greater responsibility for its future, a new book looking at the major economic and social changes to the town is about to be published. Co-author Martin Boddy of the School of Urban Studies at the University of Bristol outlines its content.

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Nearly twenty five years ago, the story of Swindon's remarkable post-war expansion was written up by Michael Harloe in Swindon: a Town in Transition (available in the town library). It described what was then Swindon's new 'eastern expansion' including parts of Stratton, Dorcan, The Parks, Walcot, Pinehurst and Rodboume.

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Michael is now Professor of Sociology at Essex University, drawing no doubt on his early experience of Swindon. In the late 1960s he worked with a Borough Council team planning the next phase of expansion that become West Swindon. His account of the town's development left the Swindon story poised for a new chapter.

put Swindon under the microscope. The scale of expansion locally and the transformation of the town's economy and social makeup made it the ideal place to study the sort of changes which have impacted nationally in the postwar period. The government-funded Economic and Social Research Coun-

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Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189

e-mail: 106302.1656@compuserve.com

Editorial: Roger Ogle Publisher/Editor Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

Published monthly.

Changes all around. Lookingfrom the new houses of Toot hill, towards the town centre as historic railway workshops are demolished in the 1980s Swindon's transformation in the cil - which itself relocated from last twenty five years has been no London to Swindon - supported less remarkable - population up many of these earlier studies. Last by 35,000 since 1971 and still ris- year, the ESRC teamed up with ing, a roll call of major employers Thamesdown Borough Council to investing in the town including commission a follow-up to Michael Intel, Motorola, Honda, National Harloe's earlier account, from acaPower and Nationwide Building demics at the Universities of BrisSociety to name just a few, major tol and West of England. Cityfor the 21st Century?, due for growth in housing, employment and high quality community fa- publication in May, brings the cilities in West Swindon, develop- Swindon story up to date. It proment now picking up in the Hay- vides a detailed picture of how the town has developed over the last don sector to the north. Following Michael Harloe's ac- 25 years and identifies the dilemcount, a string of studies by policy- mas and challenges which it now makers and university academics faces.

Copy date for April edition: 14 March Published: 29 March Copy for May: 14 April The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Contents 4 Toothill Freshbrook 5 Haydon Wick 6 Abbey Meads 7 Red Nose Local Lives 8 Shaw & Roughmoor 10 11 West lea 12-13 Recreation At Your Library 14 15-18 Greendown Newsletter 19-21 Swindon Wide Letters to The Link 30

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994."

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The Link Magazine • March 1997

Fewer teachers, bigger classes

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proved, or we must accept that children's education will suffer, despite the efforts made by teachers, heads and governors."

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Headteachers and governors across Swindon will be be told in early March what their budgets will be. They will have to cope with less money and consider sacking teachers. Taking over education from I retary of the Swindon Association April, the new Swindon Council of Primary Heads, believes the situhas been forced to agree a budget ation is reaching crisis point. "Cenwhich is £2.1 million less than was tral Government says that it is spent last year on schools in the putting extra money into educatown by Wiltshire County Council. tion in the coming year. But, over the last 3 or 4 years, local authoriThe majority of households in The ties have been forced to subsidise Link distribution area has contact Government funding because it is with a local primary school. Parwoefully inadequate. The 'extra' ents will be particularly concerned money is a myth as it only proabout how badly they will be hit. vides for about half of the costs Although the £22m agreed for due to inflation and it makes no is 1.5% more than for 1997/98 allowance for pay rises. 1996/97, there will be a 4% rise in pupil numbers (including four year "In the year Swindon takes over olds coming to school with nurs- education, it is sad that the Govery vouchers). ernment's funding allocation is so severely restricted. All primary The effect of inflation at 2.5% and schools in the town will suffer subthe 2.5% teacher pay rise agreed stantial and significant reductions by the Government will create furin funding that will severely affect ther spending reductions. the quality and standard of educaSome schools are seeing a drop in tion they are able to provide. A pupil numbers and they will have typical school of 300 pupils will up to 10% less than last year. The lose around £19,000. This repreresult across the town is likely to sents a teacher. be very large primary school "It is vital that parents, and everyclasses of between 33 and 38, and one in the community, undersome over 40. This should be comstands the effects of the latest round pared with average primary classes of cuts. If we care about our chilof 28 to 31 children six years ago. dren's education development, the Headteacher Andrew Pagett, Sec- funding situation must be im-

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"Parents need to realise that their primary schools are running on a shoestring. It will not take much for the string to snap." Secondary schools across the town are also in line for big cuts. Headteachers predict that there will be about £90 less per pupil, a reduction of around £90,000 for a school with 1,000 on roll. One headteacher said that teaching and support staff sackings and larger classes are inevitable. He pointed out that practical and vocational groups in upper school exam years will be particularly hard hit. Generally schools will be unable to replace books and equipment in order to keep up with recent national curriculum changes.

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Bereaved mother speaks out for safe Whitehill Way crossing Toothill mother Diane Johnson continued her campaign on 18 February to make crossing Whitehill Way safe for pedestrians, by speaking at Thamesdown Council's Public Works and Services Committee.

Diane's son Ashley, 12, was knocked down on the road, crossing from the Link Centre to Shaw Ridge Leisure Park at the end of September last year. He later died in Oxford's John Radcliffe Intensive Care Unit. Diane, below, has vowed to get a safe crossing built and over 5,000 people signed a petition calling on the council to take action, which

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was presented to the Mayor of Thamesdown in December. Speaking to the Public Works & Services Committee, Diane emphasised how strongly the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park draws young people. "With a growing population, and more people visiting Swindon, the Leisure Park will become more popular. It is vital that a crossing is built before another tragedy." She was given an assurance that a crossing would be considered as part of a scheme to rebuild Tewkesbury Cross roundabout. "I'm not stopping," said Diane. "I won't take no for an answer. There must be a crossing on that road so that another mother does not go through my experience. *Diane is selling tickets to a charity soul concert in aid of John Radcliffe Hospital. Seepage 19.

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Let us live in peace Teenagers roaming around a housing estate in Freshbrook are making life hell for residents. People living in Cottington Close, Freshbrook, where a high proportion are pensioners, are being plagued by destruction and damage and general vandalism. Bravely speaking out, Sarah Aldworth says that her neighbours have had enough, but are nervous about reporting incidents to the police for fear of reprisals. "These problems have been going on for years. We set up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme about 4 years ago to try and provide help, but we need firmer support from the police and Thamesdown's housing department." Residents have had to put up with a constant stream of aggravation including mud thrown at clothes on washing lines, and lines cut, broken fencing, shopping trolleys crashed into cars, trip wires outside flats, guttering and drain pipes ripped away from fixings.

Sarah has suffered constant persecution because she speaks out. She has had stones thrown at her flat windows and had a breeze block dumped through her car back window in January. After it was repaired at considerable cost, the car was totally destroyed in an arson attack on 9 February. "Somebody in the community has got to make a stand," said Sarah, who insisted that The Link publicise the plight of Cottington Close residents, despite the possibility of further trouble. "It could be a lovely area, but people are living in fear from just a few who are running wild. People deserve to live in peace." Councillor Sue Bates, Leader of Thamesdown Council, who lives in Freshbrook said she was very concerned and had instructed the Housing Department to investigate the situation.

Sarah Aldworth with fellow Neighbourhood Watch coordinator Percy Page with her car which was gutted on 9 February

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Places available Freshbrook Playgroup, which meets in Freshbrook Community Centre, has sessions available for pre-school children aged between 3 and 5 years old from September. The playgroup is registered to receive nursery vouchers for four year olds. To find out more, parents can visit the playgroup in the community centre between 9am and 3pm, Monday to Friday, or call 871017.

Councillors available Councillors representing Toothill Ward (includes Toothill, Westlea, Shaw and Roughmoor) hold regular surgeries throughout the year. 11 March, 7pm - 830pm. Toothill Community Centre To contact them at other times: David Cox, tel: 615005; Maurice Fanning, tel: 422043; Terence Winter, tel: via 422043 Freshbrook councillor Phil Rashid is available on the last Friday of the month, 7pm to 8pm in Freshbrook Community Centre. At other times, he can be contacted at 872803. Meet the Leader. Leader of Thamesdown Council Sue Bates is available to meet the public, from 10amto 12 noon, at the Civic Offices, Euclid Street on 20 March.

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are immediately on hand when needed. Each apartment has its own kitchen and bathroom, and residents are encouraged to furnish to their own taste. Windmill court is surrounded by attractive well maintained grounds for the private use of the residents. Outings and events are frequently held for those wishing to participate. The James Butcher Housing Association has over 30 years experience in providing accommodation and care for the frail and elderly, where the dignity and independence of residents is always ensured.

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HAYDON WICK & WOO DHALL PARK

Report sets challenge for new head

Hope to keep land for school

A highly critical school inspectors report on Hreod Parkway School, published at the end of January, A councillor is hoping that a lays bare the school's strengths and weaknesses which a new headteacher will have to sort out. scheme to build shops in Haydon Ofsted inspectors spent a week in the school in December, just before headteacher Richard Cleall retired. The first interviews for a replacement failed to find a suitable candidate. The inspection report provides a sharp focus to the search by the Governors and Swindon Council for the right person to lead the 1,016 student school. The report highlights a 'general lack of academic rigour in teaching, a lack of appropriately high

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expectations ... and some serious inconsistencies in pupil's learning experience and assessment.' 'The quality of teaching had shortcomings in one in four lessons seen.' The contributing factor is insufficient specialist subject knowledge.

Hreod acting head Tony Barham

'The school lacks an ethos which values learning and which expects high standards of attainment. Many teachers assume that because many of the pupils are from socially deprived backgrounds they are incapable of attaining high standards.' However, 'teachers feel undervalued' and the report states that 'leadership is weak,' and 'there is no clear vision for the school.' 'Relationship between the governing body and the school's management team are strained.'

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Behaviour is generally good though this can slip when expectations are low, and when pupils move between school sites. Despite the criticisms, there is a rising trend in GCSE results with 41% achieving A-C last summer, compared with 30% with 1995. Acting headteacher Tony Barham said the report provides clear guidance for the future. "We are working closely with the local authority to develop an effective action plan which will be sent to all parents by 14 March. Staff at all levels have been involved in preparing the school's response. "Weaknesses have been identified. We must seize the opportunity to improve the school. The appointment of a new headteacher will contribute to the significant improvements already started."

Wick will be dropped when Swindon takes over all local government responsibilities in April. Last June Wiltshire County Council proposed to sell land between Westfield Way and Haydon Leigh School for a shopping development. Objections from residents encouraged Thamesdown Council to reject a planning application. Parents expessed worry about fumes from delivery lorries turning just a few metres from classrooms and also for the safety of children from intruders. Haydon Wick councillor Kelvin King said the issue had gone very quiet since the planning committee meeting in August. "The Borough Council has been negotiating with Wiltshire to retain the site for the people of Haydon Wick. "The school might need to expand to cope with children comFor the retired ing from Abbey Meads and the Age Concern Club meets on alter- land is essential for this. I hope the nate Mondays at 2pm in Haydon land will be kept in Swindon's ownership when they take over." Wick Workingmens Club Members enjoy a variety of en tertainment and a number of sumBazumble sale mer day trips are already planned. Saturday 15 March, 2pm The club organises bring and buy Emmanuel UR Church, Haydon sales and two jumble sales a year. The annual membership fee is Wick. In aid of Trailblazers activity holidays currently £2 but newcomers are for handicapped teenagers always welcome to attend for an afternoon's try out. For details call Beryl Bishop on 725567.

For youngsters Parents with young children who are new to the area may like to join Tea 'n' Tots Parent and Toddler Group on Thursdays from 1pm to 3pm in the Haydon Centre. The group is open to newborns to 4 year olds and provides an opportunity to develop play and, friendship, while parents can enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. For more details ring Karen Skuse (afternoons only) on 726661.

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ABBEY MEADS

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Pam Tilbury has been kept very active since she moved into her new home at Dinmore Road, Abbey Meads last March. Pam is employed by Thamesdown Borough Council as their Museums Education Officer and is responsible for organising the family and childrens weekend and Pam takes a break from organising an activity at Lydiard House

holiday events programme. She also works with school groups using museum resources at Lydiard House, Bath Road Museum and the GWR Museum for national curriculum studies. Pam taught history and RE at secondary school in Coventry before joining Thamesdown where all her skills and initiative are put to the test. She uses her teaching experience and her arts and crafts hobbies to make activities interesting, or calls upon specialists to help out. "There is certainly variety in the job," says Pam. "The events range from making Victorian photo frames at Bath Road, to organising drama sessions at Lydiard, or printing T shirts at the railway museum." Pam says the move to Abbey Meads was a good decision be-cause people are really friendly, which included a street outing at Christmas.

Toddler group gains a name Introducing Abbey Tots, the name chosen by members of the Abbey Meads parent and toddler group which meets at the temporary community centre (next to the police post) on Thursday lOam to 11.30am. New members are always welcome. To join the happy band below, turn up or call Shiela on 700613.

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Local Lives Putting your COMIC RELIEF cash to good use

What is it like to manage the millions donated to Comic Relief? Link magazine reader and Comic Relief Managing Director Jerry Marston gives an outline of his job When I tell people what I do, I regularly get asked what my real job is, or what I do the rest of the year. It's a fair question. For most people Comic Relief means Red Nose Day, which is one Friday in March (every two years actually) when licensed comic chaos breaks out across the nation, culminating in a televised night of comedy and fundraising. When the dust settles six weeks later, £20 million or more (hopefully has again been raised through the extraordinary generosity of the Great British public. But 'funny money', as this magazine's editor calls it, needs a lot of serious planning to raise, and just as much care and attention to spend. That's why Comic Relief is an all year round organisation, with permanent staff, and offices in New Oxford Street, which is where I head to daily from our home of eleven years in Lydiard Millicent. Two hours travel each way make for a minimum twelve hour day, which includes the chance to work on the train, where incidentally, this was written. For the last six month we've been putting together this year's campaign, designing the new friendly shaggy human nose, the revolutionary car nose, and the indispensable fashion accessory, the clothes nose; dreaming up new fundraising ideas, like the 'Kissing Kit' and the 'Comical Lottery' and working on six hours of original TV which will include the very last of Only Fools and Horses,

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HI Rosemary Ogle models the nose with Jerry Marston

a Men Behaving Badly special, and fiery Gladiators featuring Nigel from Eastenders. There will also be report backs on our work in Burkina Faso and Ghana from Angus Deayton and Nick Hancock, a moving piece on Street Kids in Ethiopia with Julie Walters, and three films on UK projects visited by Victoria Wood, Jennifer

Saunders and Lenny Henry. WhicG brings me to another regular question .... what's it like working with comedians and celebrities all the time? Actually, we see much less of them than you might think, because although they're mightily committed, they're also very busy with their own lives and careers, and we're

careful to respect that in what we ask them to do for us. And it's not just the artists who give us their time and talent. Comic Relief is also supported by an army of designers, writers, directors photographers, printers, couriers, auditors, insurers, and companies supplying stationery, furniture, photocopying, computers, hotel rooms, flights, without whom we simply couldn't survive. In five Red Nose Days we've raised over £110 million and because we get all our fundraising costs sponsored in cash or in kind, every penny has been allocated to projects in Africa and the UK. In Africa we spend the money on long term development projects helping the most disadvantaged communities to improve the quality of their lives. To date we have spent over £73 million on 950 grants in 42 countries. In the UK we have four programmes, three supporting work with young people who are homeless, disabled or have problems with drugs and alcohol, and a fourth with older people. So far over £36 million has been spent on 2,800 grants, including loads of projects in Wiltshire. The theme of Red Nose Day '97, 14 March, is Small Change BIG DIFFERENCE. Even by doing something small and giving just a tiny bit of your time, or a handful of loose change, you'll be helping to make a big improvement in the lives of others. If you want some ideas call our information hotline on 0891 557788

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MORTGAGE Mansfield tsegme SERVICES ON&

Serving the community since 1987

NEW START, NEW HOME ...HELPFUL LOCAL MORTGAGE ADVICE Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you

We have special discounts available NOW!! First time buyers 3.85% (APR 4.1%) for one year (variable)* 4.99% (APR 5.2%) for two years (variable)*

* £250 cashback on completion

For example, £50,000 would cost £145.98 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 3.14% for the first year. For example, £50,000 would cost £189.21 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 2% for the first two years.

Combination Discount Cashback

A 2% discount for one year, PLUS a 2% cashback. For example, £50,000 at 4.99% (APR 5.2%) would cost £189.21 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance), together with a £1,000 cashback on completion. (Maximum loan to value 95%)

Fixed rates

For example, 2 years fixed rate at 5.99% (APR 6.3%) and 3 year fixed rate 6.89% (APR 7.3%). (Max loan to value 95%)

If you already have a mortgage

Cashbacks of up to £6,000 are now Don't worry available for housebuyers and those seeking to re-mortgage.

Now available:

100% mortgages now available for first and second time buyers NEGATIVE EQUITY MORTGAGES ALSO AVAILABLE You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK.

For free advice and further information, call us now on

Swindon 772779 ,,Representative only of CORNf-IILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'. Credit broker teesotup to 1% on the advance nay be charged at completion depending on the type 01 product and credit period. Rate applied Is 3.85%PA (4.t% APR) or one year. APR Is variable. Rates may vary. A wntten quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years 01 age or over. Subject to status. Subplot to our current lending criteria. A 3.14% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage tale, currently 6.99%. Those applicants baneottng from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within tour years trom the date 01 completion will be charged an additional icy months interest. This charge Will be reimbursed it anew mortgage is then taken out with the Society Eoarnple A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying loran endowment mortgage 01 £50,000 over a 25 year ten (300 monthly payments), completing before 30 April 1997 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000, 300 monthly mortgage payments net 01 tax of £t 45.98, Monthly endowment premium 01 C74.96. Total amount payable £116,437 Calculated to Include valuation tee £t 55. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rote will apply throughout the ten 01 the loan. Maximum loan £150,000. The 3,85% rate applies to loans op to and Including 95% 01 the purchase price or valuation, whichever Is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable or one year. alter Which the than current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require addillortal security. This is usually in the loon of a Risk Charge.

REMEMBER YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

GARY:WILKINSON

Pancakes launch playscheme

Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying T Repairs and Welding átes

The Octobus Project held a pancake making workshop in Shaw Chapel, Old Shaw Lane on 11 February to get this year's playschemes off to a flying start.

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SWINDONSOF ATER Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water 24 no a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled. Rent, lease, purchase. DIV sales & service. Salt delivered.

Play worker Sue Doubleday said the Whippets on Tour play bus will be outside the Chapel, for over us in the Easter Holidays, from 24 March to 27 March. There will be activities in the Chapel for 5 to 10 year olds.

"We would like to get regular activities going in the area, but we need the active support of parents to make this happen," said Sue. She can be contacted on 723755 to talk about a summer holiday programme.

lemma and John Griffin from Castleton Road get into flying pancakes -

s.\

260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172

THAMES WOOD VETERINARY CLINICS Built on a reputation of quality and care

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Savage attack dog still alive An angry father from Peatmoor whose son was savaged by a dog cannot understand why the creature is still alive. Jake Williams, 5, and weighing only 19 kilos, was attacked by a 42 kilo Japanese Akita hunting dog on a visit to the Wootton Bassett Bird Centre on Christmas Eve. The dog has not been destroyed and Gary Williams from Peatmoor wants to know why. "Jake was holding my hand and I stroked the dog as it came up to us," said Gary. "The next moment, its jaws had sunk into Jake's face. His bottom lip was ripped away and I could see holes through Jake's cheek into his mouth." Jake required sixty stitches during a three hour operation to repair the damage which will leave him with horrific facial scars and deep psychological fears. Gary said a police investigation file had been passed to the Crown Prosecution Service, but he thinks the dog should have already been put down. "It's still alive because the owner claims the damage was caused by the dog's feet. Having witnessed the dog tearing into lake, I can say it was clearly a vicious attack with its jaws. "1 don't hate dogs, I used to have one. But this dog has attacked a child, it could do it again at any time. I would warn parents to be aware if they choose to visit the Wootton Bassett Bird Centre."

Places in village playgroup Lydiard Millicent playgroup meets in the village hall on five sessions in the week and will be taking nursery vouchers from April. For further information on availability of spaces, contact Liz Bishop on 771089.

Plant a tree at Mouldon between Sparcells and Woodhall Park, at the Community Forest Fun Day Sunday 2 March, lOam to 4pm Launch a new woodland 3,000 trees to be planted Live entertainment No on-site parking. Walk from Sparcells or Woodhall Park Free bus from Hillmead Indus Estate, off Mead Way

WESTLEA

Girl joins county chess set Edith Glennie from Woodchester Close, Westlea, has been chosen to join her Westlea School classmates on the Wiltshire under 9s junior chess squad.

ENTERPRISE WORKS

J.F.K BUILDING SERVICES Extensions, Alterations, Renovations

(Factory For The Disabled) FENCING PANELS & TRELLIS. CONCRETE OR WOODEN POSTS. ALL ACCESSORIES. PATIO SLABS & PLANTERS.

NOW GREENHOUSE STOCKISTS A WIDE VARIETY OF)fl " "' LJ" & SUMMER HOUSES MADE TO ORDER OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS

All aspects of garden construction including fencing

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AND CHECK OUT OUR COMPETITIVE PRICES. Units 1A & 1 B, Gipsy Lane Business Park,

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (01793) 727824

Gipsy Lane, Swindon,WIIs SN2 6DT

TEL: (0 1793) 616288 FAX: (01793) 542235

The Westlea chess team with coach Trevor Canton, from from left, Chris Carlton, Scott Burden, Danny White, Craig Roberts. Back, Edith Glennie, Oliver King

Five boys from Sue Anderson's class were selected for the squad of twenty after a selection tournament in December. Edith was asked to join in January to train for inter-county competitions later in the year. The Westlea School team have not confined themselves to playing in the Swindon schools chess league. Spirits are very high after the team travelled to Cardiff on 1 February for the English and Welsh primary schools zone tournament. They came away as top school and

now go on to the national tournament over a weekend at Pontins, Prestatyn in June. Sue Anderson said she was really pleased with the result. "It was tremendous to win a zone tournament against schools from all over the south-west and Wales. We're all really chuffed." Most of the Westlea team entered the Wiltshire junior open chess championship which incorporates the West of England Championships at Greendown School on 15 and 16 February.

Westlea author takes on family history role Sheila Mitchell from Moresby Close, Westlea has become the Programme Secretary for the Swindon Branch of the Wiltshire Family History Society. The organisation is always interested to meet people in researching their family's past and is able to provide valuable assistance. We meet fortnightly at 715pm at the Gorse Hill Community Centre, Chapel Street. Anyone who is interested in family history would find the meetings most worthwhile Sheila Mitchell as there is an advice table where highly qualified family historians way our ancestors might have offer advice regarding how to find lived. The society is lively and well particular information and where to look. There is also a library of attended and warmly welcomes Family History Journals which can any new members. The next meetbe borrowed and a book stall where ing will beThursday6 March when publications relating to family his- Gordon Tily will give a talk entitled Georgian Letters. Topics at tory matters can be bought. At every meeting there is a future meetings will be: 20 March, speaker. Some have specific areas A Year in the Parish by Richard of knowledge and expertise re- Moore; 3 April, What Can I Do at garding the research of family his- Home by Marjorie Moore. For more information please tory. Others are knowledgeable on the background and social as- contact the branch secretary, Paul pects of history which can help to Hughes on 791040 or the chairprovide information relating to the man, Richard Moore, 537103.

Purton Garden Machinery Tel: 0831 719962 All maintenance undertaken flee lopped • Shrubs pruned Turfing Grass cutting Planting • Fencing Shingle Gardens

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Tel: (01793) 526571

or 770707 (alter 5pm) Spares *Repairs *Servicing Overhauls to petrol & electric New & used machinery for sale Part exchange welcome Rotavator for hire with or without operator Lawn mowing, scarifying and rough grass cutting, on a one off or regular basis

n e tÜ ii

Premium Quality Sheds Direct from The Manufacturer at Discount Prices

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CE • Huge range of stock (over 60 designs)

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• Also fencing & gates plus all types of fencing materials

SWINDON

(01793) U6762 Fax: (01793) 541046 Extensive Display at Barnfield Road, Swindon SN2 2DJ

RECREATION

Get motivated in March

STRESS • TENSION HEADACHE? Remedial Massage to ease stiff neck and shoulders, nagging backache, muscle fatigue & insomnia

Holistic Massage for the whole person - body, mind and spirit

Wheelchair clients ease tired muscles, neck, shoulders and arms

For more information and home visits, call Bob Gutteridge I.T.E.C. M.l.P.T.I. Professional therapist

Fully insured

Tel: 01793 488325 or 0370 626870

H BOUNCY CASTLE HIRE O Children's Birthday Parties O School Fetes 0 Corporate Functions O Weddings & Engagements O Family get-togethers We cater for any occasion - indoors or out. Rain covers supplied

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Book now (tel/fax):

01793 433998

Giving Your Child The Best In Quality Education

There's so much to do at Link Centre writes Alison Bruce Spring is on its way, the evenings are getting lighter, and now is the time to get motivated. Whether you choose a new hobby, want to socialise or just need a break from the children, Link Centre can offer hundreds of ideas to give your lifestyle a boost in the right direction. Sunday 9 March is Mothers Day and whether you are a new mum or a great grandmother you deserve to pamper yourself. Why not pop into our Active Lifestyle Centre for a soothing jacuzzi or sauna or even some light exercise? You could also swim a few relaxing lengths in our refreshing 25 metre pool before enjoying a cuppa and sticky bun in Lincoln's cafeteria. There'll be Roses chocolates too, for all mums participating in activities throughout the day so you've nothing to lose. Sunday 9 March also sees the start of Easter Camp registration at 630pm, followed by Swim School registration commencing at lOam on Monday 10 March. Enrolment forms will be available in advance of these dates so don't forget to book your child in, either just for one or two days or the whole two weeks. Camp prices will remain at £5.60 per child per day, £1.50 if you have a Gold Card.

•1

Parent & Toddler Skate

Tuesdays 12.30pm - 1.30pm and

Ridgeway Pre-School Inverary Road, Wroughton

Disabled Skate

Quality education and childcare for 18 months to 5 years

Thursday 12.30pm - 1.30pm

If you are a parent with a toddler or are disabled and enjoy skating, but not the crowds, these sessions are just for you.

Open 50 weeks a year, 8am-6pm Full range of schedules available '

Skate with people of the same ability, make new friends and we'll even provide a drink to each paying customer.

Qualified teachers working within the national curriculum I I

Please contact Mrs G Simonds on(01793)845572 (Mrs Simonds is a trained nursery inspector)

SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER Bring this advertisement to the very first session and we'll admit you for just £1 (Drink & skate hire included)

We will be taking nursery, vouchers

+ Parents & Toddler: Tuesday 8th April + Disabled Skate: Thursday 10th April Conditions: One voucher per paying customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid on above dates only

LINK

Easter Camp will start at the end of the month from Monday 24 March to Thursday 27 March and Tuesday 1 April to Friday 4 April, 930am to 330pm daily. Swim school will operate as one six day course and again will remain at last year's price. Easter is going to be a really chocolatey holiday at Link. Four huge coloured eggs will be hidden around the centre awaiting discovery. Fill the entry form on the back of our camp leaflet and you could win a free mini-group skating pass and a large egg. In the ice rink there will egg and spoon races during every afternoon session of the holidays. All participants will have a chance to win as many chocolate eggs as you can eat! The Easter Monday, 31 March afternoon session will be extended for even more races and eggs to be won. For individuals and families we have special money saving offers to help give you a fun time during the holidays. New prices come into force at the beginning of April so you've a whole month of pampering and motivating to do before then. For further information on any of Link Centre's activities, call main reception on 01793 445566.

NV I CENTRE West Swindon Tel: (01793) 445566 I.

Recreation Services BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN I/c A Division of Leisure Services

RECREATION

Kids club looks for sponsors A growing football club is looking for new sponsors to help it cater for youngsters who want to play. Westlea Wanderers FC turn out four teams from under 8s to under us and more squads are planned. Business sponsors are needed to help the club achieve its aims, either by supporting the whole club or sponsoring one of the teams. For more information, call Sandy Powell on 875097.

The BT Swimathon, 17 to 23 March, wants you to take part in Europe's largest fundraising swim marathon at Link Centre and the Health Hydro in aid of the Prince's Trust and other associated charities. Individuals and teams of up to 5 are asked to raise sponsorship for swimming 5,000 metres. There is also a 'Happy Hour' for people of all abilities to swim as much or as Swimathon president, Olympic gold little as they like within an hour. medallist Duncan Goodhew, MBE, Sign up now at Link Centre and and the ubiquitous Ulrika Jonsson launched the event earlier this year the Hydro in Milton Road.

what

0you dwanna dO If losing weight is what you want to do, it needn't mean misery, hunger and isolation. I'll care for you through good times and bad. St John's Church, Haydon Wick Monday 6pm & 8pm Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive, Tuesday 9.31.m Come along, Chris, 871026

Ex-Swindon Town captain Shaun Taylor made a visit in the autumn to see the Wanderers under lOs in their new strip sponsored by plumbing and heating engineer Tim I—.

Splash for cash

ACHIEVE THE BODY OF YOUR DREAMS!

Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh

Chiropodist No more painful exercises or failed diets. This product is simply amazing. Unbelievable? Then send for your FREE SAMPLE and we'll prove to you that IT WORKS. Contact Robert on 643549

Reflexologist •:• •:• •:• Surgery or Home Visits For an appointment please telephone (01793) 849914 anytime

315 YOUR CHILD A GP ED B ET W E E N 41\ ND / 1 Y R5 ? DO YOU WANT TO IMPROVE THEIR * DISCIPLINE? * CONFIDENCE? * SELF-CONTROL?

LEIGH CHILDS SCHOOL OF

0 N D

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Please call Mr Childs to confirm your booking on 07000 - 216101 or 0831 - 216101

AT YOUR LIBRARY

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EXT 159

New writers to borrow Firstly this month I would like to thank everyone who has contacted Joyce and myself about the housebound library service as a result of last month's article. Lots of you have put your names forward offering your time and enthusiasm. We will be in touch soon writes Vicki Moore. Many people coming into the library are looking for something 'different' to read. If you are stuck for ideas and feel like a challenge, why not try anew author. At West Swindon library we have new authors in our first novels collection. You may find a writer you really like there, and even a future star. Here are just a few titles from the collection to give you a taste! Jacquelyn Mitchard The Deep End of the Ocean. When Beth Cappadora takes her children to a school reunion, her three year old son Ben disappears without a trace. Alan Bloom Mistress of Melt horpe. A romance set in the world of plants and gardens, by the founder of the famous nursery and gardens at Bressingham. Angela Dracup Mozart's Darling. A novel describing the story behind Mozart's passionate marriage and his struggle in the treacherous musical world of Vienna. Sheila Newberry Tilly's Family. A saga following the fortunes of Tilly Reeder as she faces the dilemma of choosing between her beloved Searle family and the slum doctor she loves.

John Nichol Point of Impact. Real New releases from more establife Gulf War hero John Nichol uses lished authors: his first-hand combat experience Catherine Cookson The Bondage of to produce a story of intrigue, ro- Love a tale of love and discovery. mance and daring cockpit action. Patricia Cornwell Hornet's Nest a Ned Sherrin Scratch an Actor. This new series to complement the novel introduces a family of larger Scarpetta novels. than life characters called the Josephine Cox Cradle of Thorns a Milman's. Bedfordshire saga. Gyles Brandreth Who is Nick Saint. Joyce Stranger The Guardians of Nick Saint has a recurring dream Staghill, a gentle love story. that feeds his obsession that he has Richard Woodman The Antigone a been or will be the incarnation of naval saga. Santa Claus. Exhibitions Bonnie MacDougal Breach of Trust. 1 to 15 March. Swindon Artists A legal thriller involving the misSociety displays members work. appropriation of funds from a huge 18 March to 1 April. Swindon Opfamily trust. era displays production costumes, music and memorabilia.

College puts computers into community hands New College has furthered its commitment to providing a college 'for the community, in the community' in West and North Swindon writes Pete Crayford.

COMPUTER HIRE Available on an hourly basis at:

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West Swindon North Swindon Technology Centre Technology Centre Grange Park Moredon Tel: 878118 Tel: 525554 Only £3 per hour, £5 for 2, £8 for 31 Internet Access £5 per hour

PCs, Laser Printer, CD Roms, Scanner, Software includes: Word for Windows, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, Serif Desktop Publishing, Autocad, Typing Tutor and many more

STUDY FOR A QUALIFICATION ON AN OPEN LEARNING BASIS

LU ,.

Ne,w College 'I::.

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* Construct your CV Type a letter * Learn a package * Create a poster Surf the Internet TUTOR ASSISTANCE FREE OFCHARGE

Adults learning at the West Swindon Technology Centre The two centres at Greendown and Hreod Parkway Schools are central to the communities and are open to the public during the day and evening. You are able to use the latest computers, at a very reasonable hourly rate, and receive tutor support to enable you to learn new software, produce professional documents or just have fun. Three learning resource assistants, Tracy Porter, Caroline Bayliss and Julia Tucknott, provide full tutor support at these local facilities to make it easy for you to write a CV, learn a new package, surf the net, or be introduced to computers for the first time. And it's all available at a time that's convenient to users. Parents can come along after dropping their children at school or before picking them up. Those

with daytime commitments can make use of the evening sessions. Anyone can drop in for an hour or more during the opening times which are as follows: West Swindon Tech' Centre Monday 1.30pm 3.30pm Wednesday 11.30am 1.30pm Wednesday 6.30pm 8.30pm Friday 12.30pm 3.30pm North Swindon Tech' Centre Monday 9.30am 12.30pm Thursday 6.30pm 8.30pm Friday 12.30pm 3.30pm Both sites have printing facilities and a lounge area where you can purchase a drink and take a break. There is free parking. To find out more, discuss your needs or book a computer call 878118 for West Swindon Technology Centre, or 525554 for North Swindon Technology Centre. -

This is & NMM 000 016 0 0

GREEND WN

A Newsletter from West Swindon's Local School â€˘ March 1997

Chosen for National Pilot Pro*ect Greendown has been chosen as one of the first two schools in the Swindon authority to join the National Pilot of GNVQ Part One. It is the only 11-16 school in the area to have been successful.

Head of Technology Paul King working with Scott Dutton

The General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) is already taken by a large number of post-16 college students in Swindon, including many from Greendown. The school is very good at teaching the academic pathway, but we are delighted to be able to develop our existing, successful all ability vocational work by offering the GNVQ Part One. These courses have been adapted for schools to provide a smooth route to post-16 study. They will be available to all schools from September 1998, but Greendown will launch its courses in 1997 and a has start-up grant of ÂŁ17,000. Current year 9 students will be able to choose to study GNVQ Business or GNVQ Engineering from September. We already teach a pre-vocational diploma and have been

More places to meet demand For the second year, Greendown has been chosen by more year 6 children and their parents than our nominal limit of 208 children. We are the first choice for 229 families for September 1997. Because we have slightly smaller numbers in our upper school, Greendown's governors have agreed to take more students this year to meet demand. Ian Matthews, Headteacher, is delighted that Greendown is so popular. "We are obviously pleased that more people choose Greendown than any other school, and we are glad that we can take all those who have selected us. Parental choice means nothing if children cannot get into the school they have chosen. "Larger numbers of students mean we have to adjust the timetable to avoid conjestion around the school. We have costed the extra resources in books and equipment that we shall need. Next year's students can look forward to a good start."

Swindon MP Simon Coombs visited Greendown in January to see our students at work. He is pictured with Kirsty Owen, Rebecca Donachie and Michelle Duggan (Photo courtesy of the Evening Advertiser) planning to move to GNVQ for some time. We are grateful for the support of our local M.P.,

Simon Coombs, and for the support of both Colleges that helped our bid achieve success this year.

Graduates & Undergraduates Our first intake, who joined Greendown in 1986, reached the age of 21 last year and the first of them have graduated from higher education. Catherine Voyce graduated with honours from the University of St Andrews. We are always very pleased to hear from any of our exstudents, so please let us know your news. Students who joined us in 1989 went on to Higher Education in September 1997. Tim West and Richard Bonner, the two students pictured in This is Greendown showing Simon Coombs M.P. round Greendown on his 1992 visit, have gone on to Oxford University and York University respectively. Other university successes include Peter Wilkes, now at Norwich, Matthew Wright at Aberystwth, Emma Johnson at Birmingham, Jo Ellis at Lancaster, Varida Mehta at North London and Jo Rawlings at Southampton.

Some graduates are following the example of Dulcie McMullan and Kelly Reiph, pictured left, and are taking a year out, to broaden their experience. Dulcie and Kelly's year of travel took them all over the world, including Mexico.

I~Ie,ffl

This is Greendown â€˘ 2

Business and Engine(

Elaine Ford explaining business concepts with, from left, Diane Bentley, Jolene Court and Lisa O'Brien

Business at Greendown is a very popular subject, with three GCSE option groups in year 10, and a dedicated room with 15 modem PC computers running the latest office software. Business Studies GCSE has only been running at Greendown since 1995, but mini-companies have been a central part of our prevocational course since 1993. Business Studies was set up at Greendown by Mrs Claire Fidler, who has moved into industry with British Telecom. We are fortunate that Mrs Elaine Ford, who was already working with our Business students as part of Swindon College's generous liaison programme, has taken over responsibility for the subject.

Elaine has taught GNVQ Business at all levels at the College. She is a qualified GNVQ assessor, verifier and trainer and we have the benefit of her expertise in setting up the Pilot Project. Part One Business will be developed with the support of Swindon College, who maintain the computer network for Greendown. The College will assist us with the training of staff and in developing successful GNVQ units. We plan to continue to work with Young Enterprise and its sponsoring firms who send in business advisers. Our mini-companies have won prizes for the past three years and the current groups are enthusiastic in developing their money-making ideas.

Mini-company directors, from left, Kevin Rouse, Michael Thomas, Nathan Thompson, Paul Goldsmith

Year 9 and 10 students greatly enjoyed workshop days with players from the English Shakespere Company in February. Below: Year 9 students and actors work on the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet

Meeting individual needs is central to the Greendown philosophy. Students start Personal Development Planning from year 7. Amanda Williams and Neil Hinder are pictured working on their Record Of Achievement in our new PDP computer room

1~ 0*42 This is Greendown â€˘ 3

ring take centre stage Technology is one of Greendowns strengths. Our students have always taken the subject from year 7 through to GCSE. We have been an Engineering Council Technology Enhancement Project school and are strongly supported by Neighbourhood Engineers, representatives of local companies who are all members of the Engineering Council. We have secured a place as one of the first schools in the country to offer GNVQ Part One Engineering. Paul King, the Head of Technology, is already teaching GNVQ Advanced Engineering for New College based at the West Swin-

don Technology Centre in Greendown. Post-16 Engineering students study with Paul at the centre every Friday. New College is training our staff to teach and assess Engineering and will assist us in developing our Part One. Swindon is a good place to build up an Engineering GNVQ. A large number of local firms want the skills and expertise the course develops in young people. It is an ideal route through to Modern Apprenticeships and a good career. Rover Group have pledged support nationally to the development of GNVQ Engineering, and we are already planning

Paul King and Technology teacher Richard Hoare show year 10 students how to use Computer Aided Design programmes in the West Swindon Technology Centre

Singers shine with professional direction Greendown's Music school sembly before Christmas was progoes from strength to strength. vided entirely by vocalists. Linked to CD backing tracks and ampliSinging classes were added to the provision last September, and our fied by our new public address students are already showing the system, our singers sounded professional themselves! benefits of expert coaching. Singing is taught by Linda Scott, who Linda has plans to take a group has had wide professional expeof older singers, who are interrience, and has been singing with ested in a music career, to perMasquerade for many years. form publicly and to make a tape The three Musical Extravaganfor sale at Greendown. The qualzas revealed the breadth of the ity of the voices are excellent, singing talent at Greendown, and and we wish their ventures every the music at our end-of-term as- success. Linda Scott, with from left, Kate Rudkins, Nicola Mapstone, Nikki King, Becky Gray and Gemma Abrams

Julia Drown, prospective general election Labour candidate for Swindon South, attended the year 7 Boat Show in February and is pictured viewing the Rhapsody Waters exhibition stand projects with Norma Adair of the company's Swindon plant. Rover have worked with Greendown in the past, and have supplied mentors for our Young Enterprise companies. We look forward to further interesting work on the Part One Pilot. As an example of promoting technology from the time stu-

dents start at Greendown, our Boat Show in February was again a great success. There has been a Boat Show at Greendown since our first year, 1985, and this year's was the biggest yet. Parents and other visitors saw work displayed by all 235 year 7 students who had modelled their own designs.

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This is Greendown โ ข 4

Girls reach next round in style

Gym success

The Greendown Girls' under16 football team are progressing in the Vimto National Schools Cup. As Wiltshire champions, their first game in the national ties was at Winchester, where they met Central Hampshire's champions. On a sloping pitch with a fierce wind against them, they reached half-time 2-0 up, thanks to goals from Lianne Taylor and Susan Shaw, tight defending and good goalkeeping from Lucy Knight. In the secord half, the pitch and the wind Were in our favour. Lianne scored a hat trick, followed by goals from Nicola Reiph, Adelle Taylor and a 30 yard, Beckham-style blast from Sonia Godfrey to send Greendown home 8-0 winners.

Greendown students had a good day at a recent Swindon gymnastics tournament. Students of all abilities entered and all tried their very best. Kate Zammit of year 7 was particularly successful, coming 2nd overall in her year. Kate's team, with Gemma Irving and Natalie Moss, also came 2nd after a good performance where they worked well for each other.

Smiles from the winning squad, from left, Karen Price, Hannah Povey, Susan Shaw, Rebecca Chester, Leanne Taylor, Nicola Relph, Sian Taylor, Lucy Knight, Adelle Taylor, Kelly HillierBowden, Sofia Godfrey The next round is a home tie against the other Hampshire team. Victory will give Greendown a

PE teacher Claire Mitchell with Natalie Moss, Gemina Irving, Kate Zanunitt

place in the quarter-finals. As most of the team is in year 10, they have already done very well.

Greendown will soon have its own school paper. A group of students, working with Ms Lisa Fryer of the English department, is writing stories and preparing material for the first issue. Wayne Allison, known as 'The Chief,' star striker with Swindon Town, kindly agreed to be interviewed by three students, and the resulting story will feature in the first edition.

Signing Off Since the first issue in 1992,

This is Greendown has been written by Deputy Head Mr Philip

Sam Hawes, Nick Gillingham and Phillip Griffiths put Wayne Allison on the record

May, pictured left below. He has been appointed Head of Oxstalls School in Gloucester from Easter.

This is Greendown will continue, written by Mr Tim Noble.

ASDA computer tokens wanted Greendown is West Swindon's Community School catering for local families and a wide range of community groups. We always make visitors very welcome and are happy to give parents tours of the school. For more information please contact, Primary parents: Tim Noble Other parents: Steve O'Sullivan Community use and bookings: Margaret May

Tel: (0 1793) 874224

Parents and friends of Greendown enthusiastically collected Asda tokens last year and enabled us to gain a Pentium CD Rom computer and printer for the Resource Centre. This multi-media machine, pictured right, being presented by Asda staff Chris Howe, front, and Linda Hatfield, has been very popular. There is always a waiting list to use the machine at lunchtimes. This year's token scheme, The Asda Computer Challenge, lasts until 4 May and we will he very pleased to receive donations. All our partner primary schools are also collecting again. Please donate your tokens to local schools.

'This is Greendown' is published by Greendown Community School under contract with The Link Magazine

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THE LINK MAGAZINES GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Calling pop brains

More literary delights in fourth festival

Teams wanted for a Hospital Radio pop quiz: 19 March, 7.30pm Entry costs £10 per team of 4. Swindon's fourth annual Festival of Literature in May will once Details from Graeme Reeves on 642814 or Mike Barrett on 525189. again cover the broadest range of interests. GWRIBrunel Classic Gold

Heart 'n' Soul Saturday on 22 March with The Soul Destroyers Link Centre, 8.30pm

The big name line-up includes Oscar winning producer Sir David Puttnam talking about his controversial new book on the film industry. Libby Purves will talk about

All proceeds to charity. Diane Johnson from Toothill is selling tickets to raise money for the John Radcliffe children's intensive care unit. Tel: 644627

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her busy and versatile broadcasting, writing and novel writing life. Long-standing political icon, exRAF and Navy officer, ex-cabinet Minister and famed tea drinkerTony Benn MP will no doubt set the general election into his own historical perspective, a few days after entering them into his diary. Authors Blake Morrison, Helen Dunmore and Louise Doughty will be discussing FamilyLife: what's in it for children? And world-ranked female snooker playerJane Holland will be reading from her brilliant book The History of a Disreputable Woman. And there's more! But you'll have to pick up a festival programme in a nearby leisure venue. The ten days of literary exploration launches in Lawns Park at sunrise on 1 May with adawn chorus of human voices, Maypole dancing and a bacon buttie breakfast.

Two West Swindon schools have been chosen to take part in Festival of Literature events. London performance poet Pink Sly, above, as recently seen on BBC Children's TV, will be energising Greendown School students with his unique brand of live-wire, rap poetry. Togetherwith poet Patience Agbabi, he will prepare students in a day workshop for a school performance on 30 April and a Festival outing on 10 May. Devon storyteller Michael Dacre will be working with children at Oliver Tomkins Junior School on 23 April so that they can tell their own stories at the Arts Centre on 10 May.

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Saturday 1 March Childrens workshop Weaving, make a decorative round weave. Also demonstration of spinning & weaving. Swindon Museum, Bath Road, 1030am 1230pm. £2.50, to book tel: 493188 Sunday 2 March Music The Bandit Beatles. Wyvern, 730pm. £9 Monday 3 March Music In The Mood, a tribute to Glenn Miller Orchestra & Singers. Wyvern, 730pm. £12.50 Tuesday 4 March Music That'll Be The Day, music, comedy & dance from the 50's, 60's & 70's. Wyvern, 730pm. £9.50 Tuesday 4 March to Thursday 27 March Exhibition A Sense of Place by Barbara Dixon. Arts Centre Wednesday 5 March Music Margo O'Donnell & Philomena Begley. Wyvern, 730pm. £9 Thursday 6 March Music Another Night at The Opera, enjoy Bizet, Mozart and Puccini among others. Wyvern, 730pm. £8.50 Drama Sons and Lovers presented by Traffic on the Stage. Arts Centre, 730pm. Not suitable for under 15's. £7.50 Friday 7 March Music Tribute to The Carpenters. Wyvern, 730pm. £11.50 Music The Swindon Recital Series, Adelphi Saxophone Quartet playing an exciting blend of standard repertoire, contemporary works, light music and jazz. Arts Centre, 730pm. £7, tickets from Dawn Ball, 644051 -

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Saturday 8 March Workshop Treasure Chest. Celebrate International Women's Day by making treasure chests containing words, pictures and objects about women's favourite places, people, things. Arts Centre, lOam 4pm. £20, incl lunch Childrens workshop Printed Portraits, create a print of your favourite portrait. Lydiard House, 1030am 12 noon. Suit children aged 5 yrs & over, (under 8's must be accompanied by an adult), £2, to book tel: 770401 Music Utter Madness. Wyvern, 730pm. £11.50 Music Gerard Kenny in Concert (prior to a 3 week cabaret season at London's Cafe Royal). Arts Centre, 8pm. £12 -

Mary Duffat the Wyvern on 17March Monday 10 March Music The Music Club presents The Warneford School in Concert. Arts Centre, 745pm Monday 10 March to Saturday 15 March Music Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society presents Trial by Jury & HMS Pinafore. Wyvern, 730pm. From £6.50

Spring has sprung Lambs will soon be skipping around at Roves Farm, Sevenhampton just two miles north east of Swindon. Everyone is welcome to come and see a lamb being born. Over 800 hundred expectant ewes will give birth this spring. FarmerRupert Burr says an average of 20 lambs will be born daily for seven weeks from 8 March. After watching the lambing and meeting all the other animals, including kids and piglets, visitors can stroll around the easy to follow farm trails looking for other signs of spring. The trees will be budding and cowslips pushing up through the grass. Visitors may even hear the first cuckoo. Roves Farm offers everything the visitor needs for a great day out: farm animals, lambing, lamb feeding, story trails, adventure play area, rural crafts to try and a tea room. Roves Farm is open from 11am Wednesdays to Sundays inclusive and Bank Holidays.

Farmer Rupert Burr with a newborn Roves Farm Childrens Countryside Club meets on the second and fourth Sundays of every month, lOam to 12 noon. To find out more, talk to Ruth Underhill when you visit in March or call her on 763939.

March overview Tuesday 11 March Drama Elsie and Norm's Macbeth. 2 person snappy and punchy production recreates the full splendour of Macbeth! Arts Centre, 730pm. £6.50 Thursday 13 March to Saturday 22 March (excl. Sunday 16th) Music The 88th Annual Swindon Music Festival. Arts Centre Saturday 15 March Barn Dance Caller Sheila Mainwaring and the Boys of Oakhill Band. Ridgeway School Hall, Wroughton, 730pm. £5 (child £2), incl ploughmans. Tickets: 430410 Music Swindon Young Musicians Spring Concert. Link Centre, junior groups 230pm, seniors 7.1 5pm Monday 17 March Music Mary Duff with special guest Frank McCaffrey. Wyvern, 8pm. £10 Tuesday 18 March Illustrated Talk on The Burren, the amazing limestone feature of County Clare, Ireland. Stonehenge Room, Link Centre, 730pm Thursday 21 March Comedy Rory Bremner. Wyvern, 8pm. £12 Friday 21 March Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta plays Faure, Chopin, Birtwhistle & Haydn. Wyvern, 730pm. £17, £14, £11, under 18's7 Saturday 22 March Workshop Sounding Ceramics. An adults clay day with ceramicist, Mark Smart. Follow-up session included in the price will be arranged so work can be decorated before firing. Arts Centre, lOam 4pm. £14 Childrens activity Easter Jamboree Bag, drop-in, dip-in session of things to make and take away. Swindon Art Gallery, 1030am 1130am & 11.30am-12.30pm. £1 Childrens workshop Young Photographers. Learn the basics of taking good photos and how to develop and print them, suit 11 to 15 yr olds. Arts Centre, lOam 4pm. Tel: 445566 to book, £15 Sunday 23 March Dance BT Festival of Dance. Wyvern, 7pm. £5 Monday 24 March Childrens activity Hats & Helmets - make an Easter bonnet. Swindon Museum, 1030am. £2 Music The Music Club presents Claire Toomer, piano, Terry Busby, clarinet & Christopher Le Bon, cello. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Monday 24 March to Saturday 29 March (no performance 28th) Drama A Taste Of Honey by Shelagh Delany. Powerful production tells of a teenager's life amid the austerity and social dislocation of 1950's working class life. Wyvern, 730pm, Wed & Sat mats, 230pm. From 28

21 Monday 24 March to Friday 4 April Childrens activity Animal trail during the school holidays follow the trail around Lydiard House, solve the clues, find the answers. £1, includes admission & prize Tuesday 25 March Comedy Think No Evil Of Us My Life With Kenneth Williams. David Benson portrays the comic genius of the Carry On star. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Tuesday 25 March & Wednesday 26 March Childrens workshop Junk animals. Lydiard House, 1030am 12 noon. Suit children syrs+,(under 8's must be accompanied by an adult), £2, book on 770401 Sunday 30 March Music The Barron Knights Sh'boom Sh'boom. Wyvern, 730pm. £9.50 Monday 31 March Dance Vienna Festival Ballet presents Giselle, below. Wyvern, 3pm & 730pm. £13.50

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Film at the Arts Centre, Old Town Sunday 2 March, 7.45pm Shanghai Triad (15) Gong Li stars as the spoiled, petulant mistress of a 1930s gang boss. Presented by SFS Tuesday 4 March, 7.45pm Carry On Up The Khyber (PG) One of the best of the series screened as a companion to David Benson's show about Kenneth Williams on 25 March. £2.50 Wednesday 12 March, 7.45pm L'Amore Molesto (15) A strangely compelling story of a woman returning to Naples after many years away, determined to discover the truth about her mother's strange death. SFS Wednesday 26 March, 7.45pm Farinelli II Castrato (15) Set in 18thC when some opera singers paid the ultimate penalty for an unusual voice. SFS

style in a beautiful pagoda on the edge of West Swindon's lake Enjoy our £10* Sunday Lunch (Z6 for children. *10% service charge applicable)

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The Link Magazine • March 1997

•

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Bone Marrow man updates donation A bone marrow donor from Grange Park recently returned to hospital to help a cancer patient. blood to the NHS, yet the number of people who have registered to offer bone marrow is small," said Pete. "The Anthony Nolan Trust is completely voluntary and does not receive any government backing. In ten years, it has attracted 200,000 people to its donor register. By comparison, a German government initiative registered 500,000 in just two years. "I wonder how many cancer sufferers could be helped if the Government made a major commitment to a tissue bank register." Donors initially give blood samples for tissue typing and, if suitable, are kept on the register for ten years. A number of cancer related diseases can be treated using donated bone marrow but the chances of suitable tissue match are quite small. Some donors may never be called, yet by having more people registered, the chances of a making suitable matches are increased. Marrow donor Pete Cejer "Men are desperately needed" Newly aware of the need for said Pete. "Women make an imbone marrow donors to come for- portant contribution but apparward after his donation 15 months ently male donors are 'clinically ago, Pete is critical of the Govern- preferred,' but only 30% of the regment for relying on the goodwill ister are men." of volunteers and not doing To find out more about donatenough to help cancer sufferers. ing marrow, call the Anthony "Many people already give Nolan Trust on 0171 - 284 - 1234. Pete Cejer from Jewel Close donated bone marrow to the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust in September 1995 after a tissue match was made with a cancer patient in France. The match was positive and treatment has been proceeding. However the patient's blood needed a boost to aid his recovery and Pete was asked to donate white blood cells.

Pizza parlour gets bigger and better

P1z.a

Pizza customers will soon be getting an even better deal in a bigger Pizza Hut from I May. The restaurant at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park is about to expand so that more people can enjoy eat ins, whilst the takeaway and home delivery service is going to be greatly improved. Pizza Hut manager Richard Labrosse said the restaurant, with a capacity of 120, is going to expand to 196 seats. "There will be a seperate kitchens which means an better and more efficient service for customers, whether they come

to the restaurant or order a takeaway, or call for a home delivery." Building works start on 24 March and the restaurant will be closed for two weeks from 21 April to prepare for a grand reopening on 1 May. A further thirty full and part time jobs will be created by the expansion to add to to the 68 already employed. Recruitment is now taking place. To find out more, call into Pizza Hut at Shaw Ridge.

Asda in line for makeover West Swindon's shopping centre is to get a major facelift, but not for another 12 months. Rumours of redevelopment have been circulating for along time, but descisions about the level of change have been slow in coming. A spokesman for Asda confirmed that the store is in line for refurbishment next year. "We propose a major investment in Swindon which will involve changes to the main store and some work on the centre itself. We will be introducing quite a few new trading ideas which have not been tried elsewhere."

The Link Magazine • March 1997

SWINDON'S PROUD PAST

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The opening, in March, of the Great Western Designer Village Outlet in part of the old GWR rail works close to Rodbourne reminds us of Swindon's past, preserved, refurbished and put to another use. A new railway museum is planned for adjacent historic buildings. Next to the existing museum in Faringdon Road is the derelict Mechanics Institute, the heart of education, cultural and social life for GWR workers. New Swindonians will wonder why such a large building is standing forlorn in the town centre, crumbling and vandalised. It has been left to a small group of volunteers, the New Mechanics Institute Preservation Society, to publicise the need to bring the

building back into Swindon life. Formed two years ago, they are celebrating the first clear statement of support from Thamesdown Council in February. The group has to gain more backing from the people of Swindon. 'Our' Mechanics is unique in that local people raised the funds to build it nearly 150 years ago. Will the community respond again? To find out more, come along to the meeting advertised above.

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Win a cracking good Easter Egg Here's your chance to win a Wallace and Gromit chocolate egg filled with flavoured jelly bones, in a Rocket-style presentation pack. Thanks to Kinnerton Confectionary, we have 8 of these witty Easter gifts based on the Oscar winning animation 'A Grand Day Out' to give away. All you have to do is tell us Wallace and Gromit's destination when they took off in their rocket on their Grand Day Out. Send your answers to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by 20 March. If you are not a winner, you can purchase one of these special Kinnerton Confectionary character eggs at most supermarkets, retailers and newsagents.

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The Link Magazine • March 1997 r

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Waiting for Swindon

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Youngsters waiting for Swindon to make a positive approach to youth needs

Wi S .4111

At present the Youth Unit opens on two evenings a week when young people can drop in for advice and information. But youngsters are calling for the ground floor offices to be open every evening and at the weekends. Angela Baker, 15, said she had been a regular outside the Link Centre for a couple of years. "It's a central meeting place, but we

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EXCLUSIVE Young cooks have chance to show off skills THE MAN WITH A VAN Youngsters from Swindon secondary schools are preparing to cook up some tasty recipes in the search for the Swindon Young Cook of the Year which is being backed by the town's big hotels, restaurants, food producers and Swindon College. "As a nation, we need to place a Fitting in with the national cur- at Swindon College on 5 June. Folriculum, the cooks aged between lowing the final, hotels and restau- higher priority on eating health11 and 13 years, and 14 to 16, have rants will be running local food ily. Swindon Young Cook of the Year gives children the chance to to create recipes which show off awareness promotions. An organiser Helen Browning, explore their creative cookery originality in flavour and appearance, whilst demonstrating an un- organic farmer at Eastbrook Farm, ideas." The organisers hope to have a derstanding of food values, health Bishopstone, described the project benefits and cost. Local produce as all about raising awareness and celebrity from the food world to appreciation of local food - a taste judge the finals. should be used where possible. Look out for the competition A panel will choose thebestreci- of Swindon - and getting more from newsletter New Bites sponsored by pes to be created at a big 'cook off' one of life's great pleasures. Eastbrook Farm at a leisure venue in March.

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First time success for new writer

One time Bradon Forest student and professional rock musician Ian Glenn, 27, from Woodhall Park has struck the right formula by having his firstbookpublished by Minerva Press, the first and only company he approached. His work Sex, Violence & the TV Generation is full of sharp humour and gritty realism as a teacher and her pupil gain meaning to their disappointing, tired lives through a relationship. Set in an American high school, they search for love amongst the TV-inspired shallowness and violence of their culture. Ian, who wrote his first book on a beach in South Africa, has had two more works accepted.

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The Importance of being

Female

An afternoon in celebration of International Women's Day

Friday 7th March 1997 1:30pm - 4:00pm at Swindon College, Regent Circus

Alan Trask of Ultra Clean

ISTENUr eminent speakers Caroline Jackson (MEP) Dawn Primarolo (MP Labour, Bristol South) Faysal Mikdadi (Schools Inspector, Writer & exponent of Equal Opportunities) AIix Pirani (Teacher, Psychotherapist & Writer)

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YEARS

DECOTFX Painter & Decorator' Specialist Artexing,, Telephone: (01793) 79138 FOR YOUR GENERAL BUILDING SUPPLIES

Voters with a swing tendency were invited to meet one-time Conservative Alan Howarth, M.P. for Stratford-upon-Avon, on 22 February at Link Centre. He spoke about his disallusion with the Tories and about the alternative offered by the Labour Party.

CREDIT CARDS & SWITCH ACCEPTED

ALL TYPES AND QUANTITIES OF SAND • GRAVEL STONE • SHINGLE • CEMENT • PAVING BRICKS • BLOCKS• PLASTER • PLASTERBOARD PLASTIC UNDERGROUND PIPING TOPSOIL• LORRY HIRE • BUILDERS WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICE• • FREE LOCAL DELI VERY• For Friendly Helpful Service ..••..•.

Election poses mortgage uncertainty With a general election looming, many people with mortgages are concerned at what changes lie in store with interest rates, writes Mike Rees of Mansfield Begbie Associates. The general consensus in the fi- advantage associated with fixed nancial services market is, regard- or discounted deals. At present, less of which political party gains we are recommending fixed deals power, that interest rates are likely because of the uncertainty over to rise. interest rates between now and the As they are currently at or around end of next year. This does not 7.25% variable rate, which is lower necessarily mean changing to anthan the average, particularly over other lender, but you may find it the past 7 years, we are receiving a worthwhile to speak to a mortlarge number of enquiries request- gage broker who can look around ing information on fixed or dis- the market to find a deal that suits counted mortgage deals. you best. It makes sense to consider • Mike Rees is the Managing switching to a fixed rate because Partner of Mansfield Begbie Assoyour budget is then secure for the ciates, West Swindon's longest term of that particular deal. How- serving mortgage brokerage, who ever, whilst there are a number of can be reached on Swindon 772779. attractive deals available, many of them come with hefty redemption penalties of up to 6 months interPETS AT HOME est if you pay off part or all of your Worried who will look mortgage balance within a set period, not necessarily the term of after your pets whilst the fixed rate. For example, a two you're on holiday? year fixed rate can tie you to that Pets At Home particular lender for up to a further three years. You have to be could be your answer careful in that any deal you choose Pets At Home is a service is portable. This means that if there which cares for all your pets is a likelihood of a house move (except dogs) in their own within the redemption period, as home anywhere in the long as you stay with that mortWest Swindon area only. gage lender (and top-up if necessary) the redemption penalty Telephone Sheila Mitchell would be waived. for further details on There are advantages and dis873062

BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE The BEST, BAR NONE, for quality, price and service Swindon's specialist towbar and accessory fitting centre

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Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Sheppard Street, Swindon

Swindon 643744

Tel: (01793) 613147 9 Fax: (01793) 488622

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FREEPHONE 0500 340912

Wiltshire's Largest Vauxhall Specialist * ASTRA 96 P1.4 Expression 5 di, hatch, ceramic blue met, under 1,000m £9995 96 N 1.4 Merit, 5 dr, hatch, atlantis blue, 3,000m PAS £8995 95 N 1.81 16v Sport, 3 di, hatch, flame red £9995 95 M 1.7 Merit LPT Diesel, 5 di, estate, glacier white, power steering £POA 95 M 1.4 GLS, 5 dr, hatch, nautilus, 1 owner, 16,000m £POA 95 M 1.4 GLS Auto, 5 dr, hatch, ceramic blue met, PAS £8995 95 N 1.4 Automatic, 3 dr, PAS, 3,000m, atlantis blue, 1 owner £7995 94 M 1.4 LSi 82 ps,5 dr, estate, white, 1 owner, 25,000m £8695 £6495 93 L 1.4 LSi 5 dr, hatch, flame red, 30,000m 92 K 1.4 LS1, 5 di, hatch, silver, 25,000m £6995 90 H Belmont 1.4 L, blue, 49,000m £3495

96 P DAIHATSU Fourtrak 2.8 TDX SE, midnight blue met, leather trim, air con, boot spoiler, wood grain dash £18995 96 P DAIHATSU Fourtrak Anjou 2.8 TDX rose wine mica, chrome A bar, chrome steps, headlamp protectors, towbar, electrics, overmats £17995 96 P DAIHATSU Highjet MPV6 seater, silver £8395 96 N DAIHATSU Sportrak 1.6 'Inside Out' Ltd Edition, special interior trim, alloys, stainless steel, spare wheel case, chrome A bar, side steps, radio cassette, immobiliser, our own vehicle from new £10995 95 N VAUXHALL Frontera 2.2 16v estate, 5 di, in silk violet, steps, alloys, air con, towpack, sunroof

* CALIBRA 95 M 2.0 16v Silver Star, 2 owners, 20,000, leather heated seats, twin airbags, trip computer

£5995 95 M VAUXHALL Frontera 2.0 Sport, smoke grey met, £11995

£9995 £9495 £8995

95 N VAUXHALL Frontera 2.8 Turbo Diesel, Estate, 5 di, caribic blue met, alloys, steps, bar, tow pack £14995 95 M DAIHATSU Sportrak 1.6 ELX1 Caribbean blue met £10995

£10995 £5995 £POA

93 L DAIHATSU Sportrak 1.6 ELX1, cedar green met, bars, chrome alloys £8995 93 L VAUXHALL Frontera 2.41 Diamond Ltd Edition, met blue, steps bars, alloys, leather, air con £12995

£12995

93 K ISUZU Trooper 3.1 TO, 5 dr, station wagon, iron grey metallic, alloys, air con, nudge bar, heated seats, £15995 tow pack 93 K CHRYSLER Jeep Cherokee, 4.0 Ltd Auto, cruise £14995 control, tow bar, met grey, 25,000m

* VECTRA 96 P 1.8 LSi 16v, 5dr, hatch, flame red 96 N 2.0 SRI 16v, 4 di, saloon, ceramic blue metallic 96 N 1.8 LSi, 5 di, hatch, diamond met black 95 N 1.8 GLS 16v, 5 dr hatch, rio verde, 1,150m 95 N 1.6 LSi 16v, 5 dr, hatch, flame red

£11995 £13995 £10995 £12995 £10995

92 J DAIHATSU Fourtrak 2.8 TDX, Highland green, 92 J DAIHATSU Sportrak 1.6 ELX1, met red, tow bar,

£9995

90 0 VAUXHALL Rascal Mover, 7 seater, beige

£3495

£7995

NEW DAIHATSUS FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY INC 3 YEARS WARRANTY

* OMEGA/CARLTON 96 N 2.5 CD V6 24v automatic, 4 dr, saloon, grey met 96 N 2.0 GLS 16v automatic, 4 di, saloon, star silver metallic, alloy wheels 93 L CARLTON 2 litre CLI, 5 di, estate, burgundy, I owner

£14995

95 N VAUXHALL Combo 1.7 LS Diesel Van, white, 1 owner, choice of 2 + Vat from

* CAVALIER 95 N 1.8 GLS1, 5 di, hatch, nautilus 95 M 2 litre GLS 16v, 5 di, hatch, regency blue, 1 owner 95 M 1.8 LSi, 5 di, hatch, satin red, 1 owner 94 M (95 model) 2.5 CDX, 4dr, saloon, magic grey, 1 owner, leather, air con 92 K 1.6 L, 5 di, hatch, glacier white, 1 owner, 33,000m 90 G 1.6 L, 4 di, saloon, flame red

OSAKA JAPAN

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NEW DAIHATSU Fourtrak Fietdman TDS highland green £13476 + VAT +RFL

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MINIMUM £1000 PART EXCHANGE INC DELIVERY PLATES & ROAD FUND TAX

£8995

* CORSA/NOVA

NEW DAIHATSU CHARADE R Ltd, met black over silver opal, roof spoiler, alloys, RDS, radio cassette, PAS, immobiliser £8995

96 N CORSA1.2 LSi, 5 dr, hatch, atlantis blue £6995 £POA 95 M CORSA 1.2 Breeze, 5dr, nautilus 94 M CORSA 1.5 Turbo Diesel, LS, 3 dr, hatch, flame red, 1 owner, tinted glass £6395 94 M CORSA 1.2 LSi, 3 di, hatch, glacier white, 1 owner £5995 £POA 94 L CORSA 1.4 LSi, 3 di, flame red, 1 owner,8,000m £4995 93 K NOVA 1.2 Merit, 4 di, saloon, glacier white

* VANS

* MULTI FRANCHISE SELECTION

96 P DAIHATSU HiJet Petrol Van, white + VAT

£5995

93 L FORD Escort 1.4 Carnival Ltd Ed, met red, 2 local owners, c/locking, boot spoiler 93 K TOYOTA Carina 2.0 E Executive, 5 di, hatch, 2 owners, FSH 92 K ROVER 214 SLi, met grey, 33,000m 95 K ROVER Metrol.4 GTA 16v, 5 dr, hatch, metallic grey, 2 owners, 24,000m 88 E VOLKSWAGON Transport Camper Autohomes, Komet Hi-top, 1 owner from new, 29,000m

96 N DAIHATSU HiJet Diesel, white + VAT 94 L VAUXHALL Combo 1.7 LS Diesel, choice of two (+ VAT) from

£5995

NEW DAIHATSU CHARADE 1.3 16v Xi, 3 dr, hatch, silver opal

£5995 £7995 £5995

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94 M DAIHATSU Fourtrak 2.8 TDS Fleldman, highland green, 1 owner, towbar, electrics £10995 90 C VAUXHALL Rascal 7 seater Mover, beige £3495

£4495 £POA

* Comprehensive pre-sales check list * All vehicles serviced and M.o.T. prior to delivery * RAC extended parts and labour, mechanical insurance * 14 day exchange offer * Finance arranged

Any car, any age, with 3 months M0T 96 p DAIHATSU Charade 1.3 GLX1 Automatic, 5 dr, hatch, £9995 PAS, immobiliser, e/win, c/lock 96 p DAIHATSU Charade 1.3 CLXI, 5 di hatch, silver/opal, demo, alloys, boot spoiler £9995 94 L FORD Mondeo 1.8 LX, 4 di, saloon, 23,000m, £7995 met grey

Hy on Wk

The Street Moredon, Swindon

Akers Opening hours: Monday Saturd. 9.0

Akers

(I) 0)

n F-

• MorejO Rd

01793 523457 •

sales en uiries: Tel: (0831 170576

The Link Magazine' March 1997

Party Bo A 0-01 ........

The One Stop* Party Shop

(

Novelties & Gifts - Fancy Dress Accessories Balloons & Balloon decoration service

Helium gas kits A wide range for Weddings, Birthdays, Christenings and Parties 13 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett Tel/fax: 01793 853976 Mobile: 0378 954903

Janet Algieri introduces:

'7-

140, F1, to The Shoe St an k.

New and next to new Ladies Fashions

For weddings or parties, work or leisure We'llfind you a bargain to treasure Apsley Arcade, 48 High Street Wootton Bassett Telephone 01793 850106

Group takes vouchers

Church group helps with cash

St John's Pre-school in Haydon Wick will be accepting nursery vouchers and parents and prospective pupils are always welcome to attend a session. The pre-school is open four mornings and three afternoons a week during term time, from Tuesday to Friday, with a special session for rising 5's on Tuesday afternoons. If you have a three to five year old and would like to find out more call supervisor Wendy Wiles on 616029 or Julie Stilwell on 700844.

Haydon Wick's Emmanuel Church Thursday Group will be supporting Trailblazers activity holidays for handicapped teenagers for the first part of this year. New members are always we!corned. The programme for March includes a visit to Book Club Associates and a talk on the Holy Land by Vivienne Woolley. For more information contact Sue Martin on 722446.

Guild holds annual meeting

Guild secretary Doreen Shaw writes

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP Chartered Physiotherapist

Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703 60 High Street, Wootton Bassett

Music & movement

Dried .\,.,, Image Dried & Silk Flower Arrangements Made to order and to your design and colour Silk Wedding bouquets, gift s, ornaments and silk plants 9 The Arcade, Wootton Bassett

Tel: 01793 851465

/CURTAINS\ Made to measure in an extensive range of fabrics

Co-ordinating bed covers, Headboards, ottomans, foot stools Made to measure in matching fabrics Fitting • Free estimates

,1 I

DR TEXTILES Apsley Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 850790

Life's cosier with a living flame NO CHIMNEY NO PROBLEM THE

IREPLAC CENTRE

Showroom at: 1 Rodbourne Rd Swindon • Tel: (01793) 612288 Specialists in Fireplaces, Gas Effect Fires, Flue Systems

Ridgeway School is holding two events in March Tuesday 18 March, 7.30pm Gym & Dance Display Tickets £2 adults, £1 conc. Wednesday 19 March, 7.30pm Tickets £3 adults, £2 conc. Tickets are available from the school. Tel: 812824

West Swindon Townswomen's Guild holds its Annual General Meeting on 13 March, 2pm followed by a social meeting. New members are always welcome, we meet on the second Thursday of each month at 2pm in the Gradwell Hall, Link Centre. If you would like to know more about the Guild please contact me on 693707.

Please don't stare at accidents Sub Officer Perry Payne from Westlea fire station draws attention to motorway safety problems We've had a reasonably busy month, responding to 47 calls since I wrote last month. One incident of note was a road traffic accident that occurred on the M4 between junctions 16 and 15 on the east bound carriageway. Both appliances from Westlea arrived to find the accident involved an articulated lorry and a rigid lorry embedded in the central reservation and fast lane, and a private car on its roof between the fast lane and the centre lane. Miraculously nobody was hurt or trapped, although the diesel tank of the lorry had ruptured spilling a large quantity of fuel onto the motorway making it extremely slippery and driving conditions very hazardous. The central reservation is a six foot high mud bank at this point, with a crash barrier on top, and the force of impact from the lorries completely covered the fast lane of the opposite carriageway with mud. A large part of the crash barrier had also been shifted. It all goes to show that accidents can appear to be very spectacular but not always involve serious injury or trapped persons. The real danger here was to other traffic passing the scene, either on the same side of the road made slippery and dangerous by diesel fuel or the opposite side by virtue of the mud and impinging crash barrier.

Whilst the police were quick to realise the dangers and closed the lanes affected by the accident vehicles, mud and barrier it was not possible to close all the lanes affected by the diesel which would have meant losing one side of the motorway at rush hour. If you ever reach an accident scene please drive past with extreme caution. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services and the local authority Highways Department, who worked tirelessly to clean up after this accident to make the road safe again, there could still be real danger to you and your passengers. It's a big temptation to be distracted by the unusual scene, but it is so important to keep your concentration to avoid being the next one. On a different note, congratulations and best wishes go to fireman Cohn Parker and his wife Christine from all of us. They were married on Saturday 15 February. Christine wins our sympathies and admiration!

THE NEW FASCIA AND CLADDING CENTRE WHICH MEETS ALL YOUR REOUIREMENTS Wiltshire Plastics has opened on the Templars Way Industrial Estate (just off Station Road in Wootton Bassett) To help you source all the components you need, we stock the complete range of plastics and the tools to assist you in getting the lob done - all under one roof

LOADS OF BARGAINS FOR TRADE & DIY - DISCOUNTS FOR THE TRADE. •

Plastic glass - ideal for greenhouses, single glazing

Fascia board - brown and woodgrain

•

Screws and fixings

•

Sealant - white, brown, clear

•

uPVC cladding - white tongue & groove

•

Polycarbonate sheet - 26mm, clear or bronze, great for conservatory roofs Cutting service available

•

uPVC roofing sheets

•

Rain water system - gutters, downpipes

•

ILTSHIRE I_i\STICS

For more information call us on 01793 849234 or fax 849345 Templars Way Industrial Estate, Marlborough Road, Wootton Bassett, Wilts SN4 7SA

THINKING ABOUT A CONSERVATORY OR REPLACEMENT WINDOWS? If you are,then you're probably thinking about some quotes. Your checklist to select a company may have these requirements: / No pressure sales - friendly advice in a relaxed environment / Fast, quick quote / Local reputable company offering best value for money VI Quality products with a good choice to suit your budget If this sounds familiar - give us a call. Fordmontague has been established for over 12 years. We can visit you to provide a competitive quote with no hard sell techniques. Alternatively, visit our showroom which includes wooden gifts and collectables. To enquire, phone (01793) 849832 and ask for Andrew Montague

IMONTAGUE P

CONSERVATORY & WINDOW CONSULTANTS

48 High Street,Wootton Bassett • Tel: (0 1793) 849832

rDa RISTERW

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm

The Link Magazine March 1997

Primary, Secondary & Adult TUITION ALL SUBJECTS ALL AGES

PREMIER TUTORS 01793-814354 Best Value - Best Results

Letters to The Link

Contributions should be sent to the address on page 2 by 12th of the month

Swim success

Letter not printed

From Helen Marson, West Swindon Lions Club

To the person who wrote in response to the Loony Party contribution in the February Link, this has not been included due to the lack of name or address

Thank you very much for advertising our sponsored swim which was held at the Link Centre on Saturday 8 February. Among those swimming there were Brownies from 1st Lydiard Tregoze, 2nd Freshbrook and 1st Westlea, members of the 1st Lydiard Tregoze Boys Brigade and also Michele Clark, from 1st Shaw Guides who

is fundraising for her trip to Mexico (as featured in the February edition of The Link). It was a joy to witness many of the young swimmers, as personal bests were achieved. Some swam a length for the first time and one managed 14 lengths which was 12 more than he had previously

AM!

SWUM.

SKIPS

ELECTRICIAN 3& PLUMBER # 1

Established 1982

HOTPOINT WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS • Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin. Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

HOOVER For Sale Boys bike age 7-10, £45. Tel: 871726 Ladles Raleigh mountain bike, as new, six month guarantee, £85. Tel: 874873 Girls Raleigh Poppet bike with stabilisers and doll carrier, suit age 3-5 yrs, excellent cond, £40. Tel: 873460 (Peatmoor) Shopper bike only £10. Tel: 849477 Boys 20" Huffy 'Mudslinger' bike, approx age 5-9 yrs, exc cond, £50. Tel: 874.668 Mothercare Olympus carrycot and pushchair, goose design, plus raincovers, less than 2 yrs old, as new cond, paid £300+ would like £150. Tel: 705302 (What Park) Cot, drop side with mattress, £40. Bntax car seat, £25. Play pen lobster pot, £25. Maclaren Super Dreamer pushchair with raincover, £45. Tel: 875665 (Middleleaze) Cot, drop side with mattress, £5. Maclaren pushchair. £5. Tel: 496527 Boys clothes, aged 6 months to 3 years, individually priced from £1, all in good condition. Tel: 879611 (Grange Park) Childs V-Tec electronic talking computer, educational activities, exc, cond, still boxed, age 3-8. Tel: 876056 (Gr Park) Motorcycle one piece suit, black, fully lined, and quilted, size 38"-40" chest, worn once, £20. Tel: 873063 (Westlea) Cycle helmet, specialised, 57-63cm, light weight, SNELL/ANSI approved for mountain biking, unused, still in box, £60 new, prefer £40 ono. Tel: 874260 (Gr Park) Ladies black leather jacket, size 10, blouson style, imm. cond, £20. Tel: 882644 (Shaw) Ladies ankle boots, 'Ecco' make, size 7, V smart, vgc, £12. Tel: 887970, after 6 Wedding dress, Dupion silk, ivory, lace and pearl details on bodice, has been professionally cleaned, £150 ono. Tel: 878464 (Peatmoor) 8 x 6ft Phillips sunbed tubes, still lots of life left in them, £20 ono. Tel: 421665 Sunbed, Bit over bed & stand, 6 tubes, £50. Pool table, Blue Manhatten, 6x3, as new, all accessories incl. £80. Tel: 513849 Kenwood Chefette, model no A380, £20 vgc. Tel: 873221 (Toothill)

From a small fuse to a complete house rewire From a dripping tap to full bathroom installation .-_-..

Fully insured • Institute of Plumbing registered • A.B. Electrical

1, 2, 2, 3, 4, 5 yards capacity

5 days given to till skip 2.3 tonne Mini-digger for hire

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Tel: 731610 8am - 8pm

Tel: Swindon 874240 • 24 hour answering ii Chevalier Close, Middleleaze, Swindon

For Sale Magimix food processor, £15. Singer ironing press, £150. Long mirror on stand, £20, Sunbed, £15. Tel: 873311 (N. Elms) Violin, case, bow & spare strings, £50 ono. Britax pushchair, rain covers, swivel wheels & tray, good cond, £45 ono. Unused DM's, size 5, black £30 ono. Tel: 877913 (Toothill) Rowing machine, Body Sculpture 2000, adjustable resistance, hydraulic action, electronic computer to monitor exercise time, strokes, calories, tempo, £40. Tel: 729011 (Greenmeadow) Two grey double wardrobes, one with integral drawers & 2 matching bedside cabinets, £80. Tel: 882010 (Peatmoor) Bunk beds, pine, vgc, £130. Tel: 534964 Spotlights, group of 3, also set of 4 coloured spotlights, £5 each set. Tel: 641673 Schreiber teak wall unit, 62" long, display and cocktail areas, cupboards and drawers, exc cond, £85. Ladies Raleigh Rive bike, 24' wheels, £40. Tel: 490756 Single divan bed, storage under, vgc, £25. Tel: 872840 (Freshbrook) Teak effect dining table, extends to oval table seating 8, fair condition, £20. Tel: 871149 (Westlea) New World Apex 2000 eye level gas cooker, space needed, only purchased Nov 1994, £75 ono. Tel: 723845 Gas cooker, white with eye level grill, £50 one. Tel: 701400 (Hayden Wick) Black ash Toshiba pedestal stand, model PV55/63, never been used, still in box, £30. Tel: 531699 (Pembroke Park) Black ash TV cabinet stand, Dolby surround, Prologic model MV2857, suitable for Toshiba models 2557 & 2857, never been used, still in box, £50 Tel: 531699 Sheets (bed linen) assortment, £20. Roller blades, size 2, £10. Childs desk, £3. Video trolley, £3. Chest of drawers (bedroom), £10. Kitchen breakfast bar chair, £10. Barbie dolls & clothes, £10. Tel: 873796 (Shaw) 3ft bed set (not used) in packing, £65 Tel: 877714 after 6pm (Sparcetts)

For Sale Large lampshade, autumn colours, to fit standard lamp base, £5. Phillips facial solarium, excellent condition, complete with instruction booklet, £10. Tel: 873063 Quality teak veneer fire surround with two leaded light display units, and two drawers 5'3"x3'5", new condition, over £500 to buy, sell £180. Tel: 613000 (Moredon) Electric hob & 4 burners, ex cond, £50. Tel: 497884 (Toothill) Holtkamp light oak glass cabinet with light, two drawers, width 2ff, ex cond, £99. Tel: 870166 (Freshbrook) Large 2 seater sofa, modern style, yellow, blue, green, peach stripe, good cond, must be seen, £140 ono. Tel: 700359 Kodak instamatic camera, in case, £5. Tel: 873089 (Freshbrook) Super Nintendo, 7 games, 2 pads, scope gun, USA adaptor, exc cond, all boxed, £80. Tel: 887160 (Grange Park) 14in colour TV, £50. Front load VHS video, £55. Both in good cond, will deliver and set up if required. Tel: 879796 Saga Mega drive Il, 2 joy pads, 12 games, good cond, £100. Tel: 705259 Game gear with case and mains adaptor, plus six games, £40 ono. Tel: 875599

For Sale Computer 386sx, 16MHz, BOMB disk, 4MB RAM, colour monitor, £180. Tel: 874523 Computer printer, HP deskjet 520 (black & white), exc cond, £50. Tel: 876696 Portable garden frame, one sq metre, with control ventilation, £10. Tel: 534040 Flymo XE30, electric mower with cable and grass box, good working order, £25. Tel: 874034 (Westlea) Metal toolbox, 2 tier, good cond, £6.50. 1 set stanley wood chisels, 1/4", 1/2", 3/ 4", 1" vgc, bargain, £7. 3 AU spanners, 6", 8", 10", new, £8. Tel: 726833 Towbar for Renault Laguna hatchback, made by Witter, exc cond, £40. Tel: 535458 (Freshbrook) Good homes wanted for 2 male guinea pigs, 7 months old, £5 pair, must go together. Lop eared rabbit, £5. Tel: 882227

Wanted Multi coloured glass clowns, must be perfect for collector, cash waiting. Tel: 872755 (leave message if necessary) Bookcase for use in Sunday School library, folding variety or similar. Tel: 872547 Large rabbit hutch in good condition, can collect. Tel: 728290

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication) L

The Link Magazine. March 1997

The search for hope

Women's WoizLô Day op Pizayeiz Seizvice

Boyd. Raymond Adams, of $t John's Church Ilaydon Wick reflects on the Easter message

The Middle Ages produced three blood of the crucified Christ was supposed to have been collected, was glorious wild goose chases. The Quest for the Holy Grail, a magnificently fruitless venture. God intends that we should be For sheer pointless futility, the the legendary vessel in which the Search for the Alchemist's Stone is confident in the face of death, not a close second. This stone was the by clutching at straws like these, National Lottery of the day, giving but by putting our trust in His son its owner the power to turn base Jesus. To the thief on the cross, metals into gold. Winning the lot- with just a few minutes to live, tery is easy compared to the task of Jesus said, 'today you will be with me in paradise.' actually finding it. To the crowds gathered in a cemThe third wild goose chase was the Hunt for the Elixir of Life, a etery he said, 'I am the resurrecdrink which, once swallowed, tion and the life he who believes in me will never die.' He raised meant you would never die. We smile at the eccentric no- Lazarus out of the grave to undertions of people of earlier centuries. line the point. Jesus himself spent But some Americans believe they just three days in his own grave have discovered the Elixir of Life. until, on Easter Day, God reached It is liquid nitrogen. The bad news down and raised him to life. Stephanie Glennie from Westlea is that you do not drink it. After No wonder Paul writes so confiis trying to help Dentaid, a char- you die, you have your body dently to the people of his day. ity which aims to improve dental deeply frozen in it. When human- 'Christ abolished death.' services in developing countries. ity has discovered a cure for death, This Easter let me welcome you to any of the churches of this area, The photo above is not a pretty they will revive you. For such a slender hope, people where you will hear this message sight is it? This child, like most born with a cleft palate in the pay many thousands of dollars. of hope afresh. For Christians have good news Ukraine, has been abandoned to Because they have nothing else to an orphanage where there is no rely on, they write the cheque and that never goes stale, 'Jesus Christ is risen from the dead!' hope of surgery to mend her looks. think they have a bargain. A cleft palate is when the roof of the mouth fails to join up when the baby is growing in the womb. If not repaired, she will not be able to talk, nor eat solid food. Because of Having fun supporting your relationship this, many Ukranians think a cleft palate means mental handicap too. Raising money on Red Nose Day can be fun and it helps us to feel good But now there is hope. Two about ourselves. But how can we give to make those closest to us feel charities, Dentaid and Hope Now, loved and valued, writes Julia Cole of Relate. have joined forces to: work can take the fun out of the bring 4 children from the 'House Support 1. Couples often tell Relate that they best relationships. of Babies' orphanage to Guys Simple ways to have fun toHospital, London for surgery, to want their partner 'to be there for show what can be done with up- them'. But what does this mean? gether might be to watch a favourYou can show your partner you ite film, revisit old courting haunts to-date techniques and equipment; support them by giving them time or share an early night. Couples 2. bring two Ukranian surgeons, to discuss a difficult issue, offer a who laugh together often deal each for 6 months, to Guys to work cuddle or avoid putting them more effectively with difficult alongside a consultant plastic sur- down in front of the children. times, so you could also tell each geon and his team; Couples who support one another other a favourite joke, and enjoy fully equip a unit at Cherkassy are heading in the same direction. the sparkle in your partner's eyes. 3. Regional Hospital in the Ukraine, Fun together For help with relationship diffiwhere the two surgeons will both Caring for a family and stress at culties telephone Relate on 527664 operate on children and also give training to surgeons at other Ukrainian hospitals. The total cost of the programme is around £200,000; half must be raised by June this year. All Saints'Lydiard Millicent 10:30am Revd Peter Knight Many of us have reason to be 772417 (for the Village and Roughmoor) thankful for the good medical serv/ ices we have here. Here is a chance St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze 9:00 & 10:30am Revd Rob Buries to help others less well off. 870244 (for Freshbrook, Grange Park & Hook) To help these Ukranian children Holy Trinity Shaw 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington 770568\ have a better life, support this pro(the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) gramme by giving through credit Toothill Church In AC Revd George Gibson 692620 card, charity card or cheque to: (meeting in the Community Centre during rebuilding) Easter Hope Appeal (Operations Westlea Church 10:00am Revd Peter Walker 872932 for Ukranian Orphans), (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way) Peter Gardner, Executive Director, Dentaid, Cambran House Llanfair The Parish of West Swindon and the t.ydiards Caereinion, Welshpool, Powys Baptist. Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church SY21 ORQ. Tel: 019938 820424.

Put your money where her mouth is!

...

OCAL CHURCHES -

An interdenominational service planned by the women of Korea St Peter's Church, Westlea (behind the cinema) Friday 7 March, 7.30pm Speaker Tina Beattie, chairman of Diocesan Justice and Peace Group and member of Theology Department at Bristol University Refreshments & Traidcraft stall after the service -

All are welcome: women, men and young people.

Freshbrook Evangelic Church

Worsley Road

Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday I Oam Family Praise

with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion

For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

WIND

We st b u ry. The exciting new Packwood 4 bedroom detached showhome at Abbeymeads, Swindon is ready to view with the

new showhome's now open This spacious 4 bedroom house style has a superb specification including a fitted kitchen with breakfast area, utility, study, separate dining room, cloakroom, en suite shower, double garage and PVCu double glazing plus a choice of purchase plans to suit every requirement, including Full Value Part Exchange, or £5,000 cashback, or • Interior Design Package, or • Mortgage paid for 6 months*. So come along and see the brand new Packwood showhome - and look into the future of detached luxury in Swindon.

Atypical Packwood detached home

HOW TO FIND ABBEYMEADS From Junction 15, M4 take the A419 dual carriageway road. Go past Honda Factory on right and at next roundabout turn left. At traffic lights turn right. At 2nd roundabout turn left. At next roundabout turn right. At next roundabout turn left. Follow the rood around to our development.

WESTBURY AT ABBEYMEADS SALES CENTRE OPEN DAILY 11AM TO 5PM 4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £117,995 TELEPHONE (01 793) 700788 Photograph not necessarily representative of exterior designs available. Westbury will repay your mortgage for 6 months based on a typical 95% repayment loan over a 25 year period. Written details available on request. Available an selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP YOUR REPAYMENTS ON A LOAN OR MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOANS SECURED UPON IT. Only 1 incentive per sole. Prices correct of time of going to press.