March 1999 Swindon Link

3

SKIPS Always at your convenience 2, 4, 6 tonne skips Phone now on Swindon (01793) 496703

Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park & No rt h Swindon

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Swindonlink web site to sponsor Swindon Festival of Literature on the Inte rnet Now bigger, be tter and faster, www.swindonlink.com is the place to visit. See story on page 15

Bard player backs schools Shakespeare festival

First head for Abbey Meads School Mrs Marilyn Brown has been appointed as headteacher of Abbey Meads community prima ry school which opens in September.

She is well known to many readers, having been a teacher at Windmill Hill, Freshbrook,

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and deputy head at Shaw's Brook Field School. We meet her on page 29.

Saltway celebrates 10 years

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Acclaimed Royal Shakespeare Company actor David Calder has

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Tel: 01793 770998/770253

Festival. Plans are now being made for a millennium extravaganza involving 1,000 children.

Story on page 39.

Fax: 01793 770998

The Mayor of Swindon coun. Brian Ford visited Saltway School to cut a celebration cake and judge a fancy dress competition. Story page 11

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The Link Magazine • March 1999

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Swindon explorer linked-up with CALM Richard Bull from Haydon Wick will be slogging across the Arctic wastes from 25 March as a member of a six person Gadget Shop Polar Challenge team on a 375 mile, five week trek to the Magnetic North Pole. And he will be doing it for two good causes: the Mitchemp Trust which provides holidays for disadvantaged children, and Swindon children's cancer charity CALM. Richard responded to The Link's suggestion that he support CALM after reading about four year old Benjamin McMahon in the January and February editions.

Richard, who runs Wiltshire Valeting Supplies, is working with CALM on two fundraising ideas: • sponsorship for each mile he walks across the frozen ice; • carrying flags with the CALM logo signed by individual and business supporters, to be photographed on arrival.

"Sponsorship by The Gadget Shop allows team members to assist other organisations with publicty and fundraising," said Richard.

"Having been to the Magnetic North Pole and Baffin Island last year, I know how hard and completely unpredictable the conditions can be. I am pleased to do a

nity to raise the profile of our work in the community. As our running costs are low, all donations will go towards helping local families at a difficult time."

Schools, businesses and individuals who would like to sponsor Richard's arctic trek: • For CALM, call Sue Edwards on 791470 • For the Mitchemp Trust, call Richard on 0402 021919.

little bit of good for CALM and the Mitchemp Trust."

CALM chair Don McArthur said he was delighted by Richard's interest. "We are a small organisation, entirely run by volunteers parents who provide support to families with children who have cancer. Richard's commitment gives us a tremendous opportu-

Congratulations from afar I recently received from a friend in Haydon Wick a copy of your200th edition representing the twentieth birthday of The Link.

I know that when we first arrived on a new estate in Haydon Wick we felt like pioneers struggling along muddy roads, fighting with developers and starting our gardens. Often there is a sense of isolation but I believe that we have established really strong communities and loyalties by working together to overcome our difficulties.

I consider that The Link has

played a very important part in that process over this period.

Tony Mayer can be contacted at: amayer@esf.org

INGnNhlagaiahe Published by West Swindon Publications Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BP Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: Iinkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle General enquiries: Tel: (01793) 872282 Jenni Fowler Adve rt ising:

Copy date for April edition: 12 March Published: 27 March Copy for May: 16 April "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in No rt h Swindon commenced in Janua r y 1994."

Tel: (01793) 872531

Editorial: General Gina Dennis Tel: (01793) 849518

No rth Swindon Tanya Parkinson Tel: (01793) 705105 Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

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Allow me to add my voice to the others congratulating you on this achievement, especially as you featured me (looking a great deal younger!!) presenting the award to the magazine for choosing the name of the Link Centre.

As a former Leader of Thamesdown Borough Council and a councillor for Haydon Wick I very much appreciate the role which The Link has played in providing information and a strong sense of community first in West Swindon and now in both North and West Swindon.

' WE COME TO YOU'

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

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Haydon Wick resident Bernice Shails is keen to hear your opinions of the BBC. Advisory Committee member Bernice attends quarterly meetings to discuss people's views about any BBC1, BBC2 or BBC Wiltshire Sound programme.

"The committee is always interested to hear your opinions," said Bernice, right. "We welcome criticisms, ideas and likes or dislikes."

The next meeting will be held on 11 March. If you would like to give your point of view call Bernice on

01793 601600 Ambrose House Milton Road Swindon SN1 5JA Fax. 01793 619243 E-mail ambrohouse@aol.com

for a lorry driver to take 200 pairs of shoes to Preston for a local charity," said Bernice.

The Careline can be contacted on 528222.

Swindon House set to become reality for homeless kids in the Ukraine Another spectacular ball is being organised at the Chinese Experience to raise money to complete the renovation of an orphanage for teenagers in the Cherkassy region of the Ukraine.

The Link has reported the efforts of the Swindon Ukraine Orphanage Appeal over the last two years to bring relief to some of the thousands of desperate children affected by the crumbling economy of the former Russian province.

We also helped organise an appeal for clothing and essential items amongst West Swindon schools Two balls at the Chinese Experience have been organised by the Swindon appeal committee. In 1997, £10,000 was raised for playground equipment at the House of Babies orphanage which committee members Bill Allen from Wanborough and Chris Swatton from Freshbrook helped to install.

Last year the total of £7,142 purchased a house so that teenagers have somewhere to live after leaving the orphanage. The alterna-

tive is often life on the streets, prison or prostitution.

The Swindon group channels its fundraising through Hope Now which has been active in the Cherkassy area for seven years.

Money from this year's event on 15 May will pay for the completion of 'Swindon House.'

Last month, as a result of The Link's coverage of a sister charity Dentaid, we reported the plan by Freshbrook dentist Brendon Ball to drive to Cherkassy this summer to install a dental surgery and provide training to local dentists.

The Chinese Experience ball is sure to be a fantastic event with sumptuous food, Chinese acrobats, a grand auction, raffleand live band.

For tickets for this glitzy evening in aid of a good cause, call Bill Allen on 790180.

Hope Now director Vic Jakopson, left, at last year's event with Swindon Town chairman Rikki Hunt who bid £400 for ball signed by the England squad and promptly gave it to seven year old Jak Allen

TOOTH ILL

New surgery soon

Dr Peter Swinyard Dr Robert Forrester

Building work on a new £380,000 surge ry for Dr Peter Swinyard's Phoenix Practice is now expected to start during April or May. The plans include two consultAlthough Swindon Council is selling the plot of land adjacent to ing rooms, a treatment room, a counselling room, and a spacious Toothill Village Centre, there is still a lot of red tape to be cut reception area backed up with offices and a records store. They through.

Dr Peter Swinyard is hopeful incorporate good disabled access thatthelandsalewillbecompleted and facilities.

But both Dr Swinyard and his in March, allowing work to begin.

He believes that the new building wife Caryl, who is practice manwill provide the practice with re- ager and nurse, stress that what ally good health facilities to meet will not change is the welcoming atmosphere of the surgery. the needs of local people.

PHOENIX SURGERY We are now able to register new patients as our new surge ry will shortly be built in Toothill and we look forward to meeting you.

All enquiries: (01793) 433211 Phoenix Surgery Deerhurst Way, Toothill Village Centre

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No threat to Toothill schools

Swindon's education committee chair Jo Garton is keen to reassure parents living in Toothill, and those who want a church based education for their children, that local primary schools in the area are not at risk, following concerns raised by local councillor Nick Martin.

Mr Martin put a motion to the February meeting of the education committee asking for a clear statement that neither Toothill Primary School nor OliverTomkinsChurch of England Infants School will be closed. Both schools currently have a high percentage of vacancies.

His motion was replaced with one stating that the current surplus of places is largely tied up withmobileaccommodation. Discussions about the removal of ternporary classrooms will be held.

Tel: (01793) 522688

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Of the change to his motion, Mr Martin said, "I was disappointed and didn't feel that the resolution made the situation clear."

He went on to confirm his cornmitment to maintaining primary schools for each individual community in West Swindon.

Mrs Garton wants to lay parents' fears to rest. "There is no threat to any of the schools in queslion and I wish people wouldn't make propaganda out of children's lives," she said.

Line dancers kick it up Toothill Community Centre turns Texan on Thursday nights when the Toothill Texans Western Dance Club takes to the floor.

The sessions run from 7pm to 9.30pm, with a beginner's teach-in at the start of the evening. They attract men and women of all ages, currently ranging from 12 to 65.

You don't have to book, though it helps to attend regularly to build up a knowledge of the steps.

Teacher Mo Bradley stresses that this is not a class where you have to get everything right. "People come to have some fun. Nobody takes it too seriously and we all have a good laugh."

Classes cost £2 per evening, £1 for under 16s and Gold Card holders. You can just turn up, but make sure you wear comfortable clothes Toothill Texan dance leader Maureen and supportive shoes with a Bradley, centre, with good ole boy George Burnham and Carla Jones smooth sole and a small heel.

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HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

Sly Fox Easter holiday camp for 5 to 12 year old at the Haydon Centre 29 March to 9 April, excluding bank holidays, 8.45am to 5.45pm Sports, games, videos, arts and crafts and bouncy castle.

For details 'phone 706666 or call into The Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue

Sunday Tea Dance Haydon Centre 14 March, 2.30pm to 5pm.

Regular dancers and beginners are welcome to this sequence and ballroom session. Host Les Haines will be on hand to offer advice or guidance.

Call 706666 for more details.

PC notes Haydon Wick Parish Council have agreed to provide a bus shelter on the south side of Westfield Way, adjacent to Haydonleigh School.

The council is also appealing to all residents to put out rubbish bags on the morning of collection to prevent bags being torn open by animals overnight and litter being scattered around the streets.

Spring Bazaar at Emmanuel UR Church, Haydon Wick Saturday 27 March, 2pm All proceeds to Chalet School & SANDS

Visit your local garden centre For the best selection of ornamental & fruit trees, shrubs, roses, perennials, conifers, heathers and alpines in the area

Full range of garden sundries • Paving & ornamental stoneware Quality water features at realistic prices Range of wooden garden furniture & bird houses Helpful service & friendly advice Not just a garden centre - more a gardener's paradise Stockists of unusual & hard to find varieties

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Greenmeadow artist Susan Carr is working with local schools to design a mosaic, which will form part of the largest tapestry in the world.

Susan was featured on the front page of the October Link where we described how she planned to work with local primary schools to create mosaics for the millennium based on the recently discovered Roman ruins in Abbey Meads. She had submitted a proposal to Haydon Wick parish council after reading about a grant on offer in June's magazine.

The project broadened in scope after Susan saw the BBC Blue Peter's appeal to primary schools to each submit a Imetre square piece of tapestry which will be combined into a large mosaic to be displayed Susan showing some of her artwork to inside the Millennium Dome.

The Blue Peter tapestry on the Haydon Wick primary children, rear themes 'Where I live' and 'What is left, Annie McKee, Elizabeth Lock, it like to be alive at this momen- front Rosie Gough, Joseph Mobey, tous period of time' could become James Winn, Chelsea Smith She will work with the children the world's largest.

Susan, a final year degree stu- for the rest of the school year and dentin Design Illustration at Swin- the best designs, which she hopes don College of Art, has made pres- will still incorporate the Abbey entations about mosaics and tap- Meads Roman ruins, will then be estries at Haydon Wick and submitted to the Blue Peter project.

Haydonleigh Schools. "I empha"I hope the children have fun sise how small elements can be put making their collages, whilst learntogether to make one piece of art," ing about art and design at the she said. same time."

Haydon 3 plans in front of parish council open meeting

ROWS STORES 195/7 Rodbourne Road Swindon P Tel: 523262

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Swindon's northern development will be discussed at the Haydon Wick parish council annual assembly on Tuesday 9 March, 8pm in the council offices next to the Haydon Centre.

Threre is growing controversy about the proposed bus only link between Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads and the siting of the district centre. Councillors will welcome all members of the public who have concerns about these issues.

Green light awaited Swindon, the roundabout town, is likely to make a u-turn when the Northern Orbital Road is built through the next phase of the expansion area.

As a result of the Traffic Impact and place to cross the road."

Assessment carried for the Haydon ButMr Davis emphasised "there 3 Environment Statement pub- is definitely no change of policy. lished in December, planners be- We look at each individual case lieve that junctions from residen- before deciding upon the best systial areas onto what will be the tern for keeping traffic on the town's northern move."

I-...t by-pass should be c ontro11e d ra fft' c 1i ghts L .

Howard Davis, from the councils transport department explained the thinking behind the proposal. "Although the decision is not final, we have gathered sufficient information to believe that because of the large volume of traffic these junctions will carry, traffic lights are the best solution.

"They will also offer positive control for pedestrians and cyclists because there will be a safe time

NORTH SWINDON (including Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake, Taw Hill)

Information exchange goes live

Bridge reconstruction in sight

As reported in February Link, the NSPCC is launching an information exchange for people living on the northern development.

The first session Della Drury, pictakesplaceonTuesday ^ th On Fan tared, Angela Jeffery, 2 March, from 1pm to Faith Everard and 2.30pm, in the tempo_ Garry Holmes will staff rary community cenr the drop in session.

Lynne Smith, a tre, off Elstree Way. Residents, especially School Start worker those with young chilwill also be on hand to dren, can drop in for offer advice or inforadvice and information mation on pre-school and school issues. about the area over a For more informacup of tea or squash for the children. tion, call 705810.

Work is almost ready to begin on the never used pedestrian footbridge, which links St Andrews Ridge to Abbey Meads village centre.

The Haydon Development Com- Company. Upon completion and pany has agreed the redesign and after the statutory maintenance pepartial reconstruction with Swin- riod, the bridge will be adopted by don Council.. Although the work Swindon Borough Council and will mean temporary closure of become a public highway."

It is envisaged that work will be Thamesdown Drive, it is hoped that this can take places at weekends. completed by October at the latest.

Rumours, which have caused Extra supermarket plan delay or cancellation of house sales, that residents will be responsible Lidl have applied for planning for rebuilding costs, are untrue. permission for a supermarket on Alan Moore of contractors the commercial site opposite The Trench Farrow said, "the entire Friary on Lady Lane. Swindon's cost of reconstruction is being development control committee borne by the Haydon Development will consider the proposal in April.

New number for GPs on the move The new Abbey Meads Medical Practice opens its purpose built surgery at the village centre on Monday 15 March.

The surgery at Carfax Street and 1.15pm.

Saturday opening take place Health Centre and the temporary portacabin on Elstree Way will between 9am and 11am. close on 12 March. An emergency Pam Dobson, practice manager service will run from the Penhill said, "we are all looking forward branch on Friday 12 and Saturday to moving into our new premises."

The practice will have new tel13 March.

The new surgery will open Mon- ephone numbers: enquiries and apday to Friday from 8.30am to 6pm. pointments: 709100; house calls It will be closed daily between 12.15 and emergencies: 709111.

Pub to open for millennium party Planning and licensing permission has been agreed for a Banks Brewery pub at the Abbey Meads Village Centre which will be open before Christmas.

Rod Walker, retail spokesman The one-roomed local community pub will be open all day and for Banks, described the venture offer value for money food. It will as 'having something for everyhave a parlour section for locals body, a pub with close links with and an area with traditional bar the community.'

He said the yet unnamed pub games. There will also be a conservatory and garden area for fami- will definitely be open in the run up to the millennium. lies.

Pedestrians in danger Residents living in Burleigh Park at Taw Hill have expressed fears about the lack of footpaths at the entrance to the development at the Purton Road junction, a very busy traffic route to Great Western Way. To add to the problems, waiting for a bus on the opposite side of the road means standing on a muddy grass verge.

Michelle Merritt, mother of two, said "the lack of pavements is very dangerous as pedestrians, some elderly or with children, use the busy road to avoid mud, litter and pot holes. Waiting at the bus stop means standing in the road or getting muddy."

Delays in planning permission for the Haydon 3 development has meant that a new roundabout givDanger point at Burleigh Park ing access tothe Northern Orbital entrance on Purton Road Road has yet to be built. However it will be one of the first projects pany explained, "the situation at after permission is given and even- Purton Road is a temporary one. A tually there will be a number of planning application for the junction will be made shortly and it is safe cycle ways and footpaths.

Paul Shinkwin, spokesman for hoped works can commence in the the Haydon Development Com- second part of the year."

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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Galileo staff get the chop as residents await new corporate neighbour

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Just a year after planting a cherry tree to commemorate ten years in Swindon, international travel information company Galileo is quitting its Windmill Hill site with a loss of 250 jobs.

Amidst rumours of takeovers, and offering counselling. Many velop a positive relationship with the company has decided to con- will be offered the possibility of the Grange Park Residents Assosolidate its technical staff into its relocating to Denver, though not ciation and fears about the tall chimneys and diesel fumes from largest location in Denver, USA. all will choose to do so.

Around 160 jobs will be retained The early 1990s were marked by generators gave way to praise for in the UK, up to 60 finance and conflict between Galileo and the company's consultative apadministration staff in Swindon at Grange Park residents over envi- proach, tree planting and landscapnew offices, with the remainder ronmental issues and the impos- ing efforts along Hook Street. located nearer Heathrow. ing blue glass data processing cenAs the search begins for new Jenny Cropper, Senior Manager tre, just yards from their homes. tenants for the building that some of Corporate Relations, stressed At one time, residents feared that know as the 'blue monster,' former that the decision was not taken the company would be supplying residents association chair Eileen lightly and Galileo is doing as electricity to the national grid from Sawyer said, "we would hope that much as possible to support its the huge emergency computer Swindon council's planners will j employees, setting up job-shops power backup diesel engines in be sensitive to the attitude of resithe bowels of the building. dents and not allow any changes ^^ _., ^ (^ ^ T ^^,^, ^, I However Galileo went on to de- that will harm the environment.

From the May 1998 Link, Eileen Sawyer helps commemorate Galileo's decade

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in Swindon with company vice presidents Gordon Watt, centre, and Dean Bibb

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Well known PC back on the beat A familiar face to many residents of West Swindon, PC Ian Horne has recently returned to work in Grange Park and The Prinnels area.

Recruited from the army in 1979, Ian has spent all of his twenty years police service in Swindon.

After his two years initial training in the town centre, and then as the area car driver for Penhill and Pinehurst, he became Freshbrook's Community Beat Officer in 1984.

Ian then moved on to the recently built Grange Park beat, absorbing Shaw, Middleleaze and Nine Elms as they appeared.

He left beat work in 1990 to set up and run Swindon's first Schools and Youth Affairs department.

In 1994 he was honoured with i the Wiltshire High Sheriff's Award for services to the community as a result of setting up and running the annual Junior Good Citizen Scheme, a child safety event, a truancy initiative and a project addressing bullying in schools.

After eight and a half years in the role Ian returns as Community Beat Officer, requesting and getting his old beat area back. "I think many youngsters who met me in the classroom are surprised to see me on the street; it makes for good community relations."

A married man with two adult

children, Ian has lived in West Swindon for 17 years and as a result has a considerable knowledge of the area he works.

"I am a firm advocate of understanding the other person's point of view. If we all showed a little more tolerance towards each other, the police could focus on serious crime.

"By the same token I am concerned that petty crime must not be regarded as acceptable. Children are very impressionable; examples of good behaviour should be set, whilst those youngsters who step out of line need to take responsibility for the misdeeds."

9

WESTLEA

Inspectors praise successful school

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Adding to the usual busy anticipation of Christmas, Ofsted Inspectors descended on Westlea School during the last week of the autumn term.

Teaching was praised, with 63%, of lessons adjudged good or better, with all but 3% classed as satisfactory. Under fives fare particularly well, though there is a need for better outdoor equipment to meet their needs.

Other strengths include the school's excellent provision for children with special needs, its range of extra-curricular activities and its strong links with the community. But better IT facilities are needed, as well as more emphasis on challenging able pupils.

"We are very pleased with the report," says headteacher Suzanne Seaton. "We were not surprised by the inspectors' observations on IT as we have been continually working to improve its provision in school. We are moving forward, but the cost of IT equipment remains a real barrier. We need to find a creative solution."

According to the inspection report, the school offers the community value for money and its leadership and management are satisfactory. The governors were delighted that the report recognised the school's many strengths and that, after only a term in post, Mrs Seaton's good start as headteacher was highlighted.

However, in a letter to parents,

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Headteacher Suzanne Seaton with Westlea School children

Chair of Governors Mark Care expressed his disappointment at a negative comment on playground behaviour, which was felt not to be typical, given rising pre-Christmas excitement.

He also took issue with the way in which 'similar' schools are compared. This is based on the number of children entitled to free school meals but takes no account of other factors, such as the number of children with special educational needs. Compared with all schools, Westlea's standards are above av-

erage, but compared with supposedly 'similar' schools the picture was less positive. As 28% of pupils are registered as having special needs, this is perhaps unsurprising.

In response to the inspection report, the school has already implemented new playground procedures. It remains committed to high achievement and to raising standards.

After school club opens for under 5s Swindon South MP Julia Drown paid a visit to Westlea After School Club on 4 February to launch a sixteen place extension for younger children.

The club, now in its eighth year, than half have been filled. caters for children between 4 and Julia Drown congratulated the 12 years who attend Westlea management committee and staff School. It operates between 3.30pm for taking up the chance to open and 5.30pm every weekday dur- more places. "I'm delighted that ing term time. All staff are NVQ the Labour government has proqualified. vided more money for qualityafter The additional places, which in- school care for working parents.

To book a place, or to enquire crease the club's capacity by 50%, come in response to the increasing about half term and holiday care demand for quality childcare at schemes, call playleader/ superviaffordable rates. Already, more sor Cherry Hobbs on 872380.

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10

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1

Brook Field School, Shaw Friday 5 March Compere: Gary Vincent of GWR fm Promises to be auctioned include two tickets to a Tottenham game, with lunch and meet the players, a web site designed for you, tour of GWR fm studios plus flights in the traffic report aircraft Thunderbird 1, days out for the family at Chessington and the Fairford Air Tattoo, gardening, ironing and much more.

Tickets available from Brook Field School or contact Linford Madley on 881180.

Organised by The Friends of Brook Field School

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Youngsters get to grips with chopsticks for Chinese New Year Reception children at Brook Field School spent a day exploring traditional aspects of Chinese New Year on 10 February.

They made their own dragon and took turns in a procession, complete with crashing symbols and drums, made lanterns and turned a classroom into a restaurant to taste traditional foods, using chopsticks.

Teacher Eileen Brown said all 96 children, their teachers and ESA were involved in the workshop.

YoungMi Smith from Swindon Council's multi-cultural education team shows Naomi Hill and Ethan Chinquagrani how to use chopsticks

Ten years for happy school A large cake made by Salt Way mum Lynn Worth took centre stage on 11 February at the end of a week of celebration to mark the school's tenth anniversary.

She also made nearly 500 fairy cakes, one for every child and member of staff, each iced with a number ten.

These were consumed after a fancy dress parade judged by the Mayor of Swindon, coun.

Brian Ford.

The Mayor congratulated founding headteacher Mrs Sue Butcher and her staff for establishing a successful school.

Mrs Butcher said that ten years had gone in a blur, but it had been wonderful. "I remember that we accepted our first children in the year the National Curriculum was introduced.

"The building was delayed and we set up in spare classrooms at Brook Field School. Then the staff had to spend the Christmas holidays moving everything and unpacking new furniture and equipment ready for early January 1989."

A six class extension with a hall From The Link January 1989 Mrs Butcher, rear left, with the first children and teachers, including Mrs Andrea Hughes, rear second from right, now deputy head at Liden, who returned for the tenth year party

and kitchen was added in 1997 so that the school could cater for families moving into the area.

Salt Way combined its tenth birthday with a week of activity around national year of reading with visits from poets, authors, journalists and Swindon Town players who talked about their favourite books and read stories.

• Back in 1988 The Link suggested the name Salt Way to Mrs Butcher because of the ancient trading route to the south coast from the salt springs at Droitwich in the Midlands, which passes next to the school site along what became Hay Lane.

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Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5151731 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 222123 Credit broker fees of up to 1%on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied is 3.9% (4.2%APR) for two years. APR is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotation 00 10000 can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over Subject to status. Subject to our current lending criteria. A 3.05% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 6.95%. Those applicants benefiting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within five yea rs from the data of completion will be charged an additional six months interest. This charge will be reimbursed if a new mortgage is then taken out with the Society.

Example'. A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mo rt gage of £50.000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments). completing before 31 May 1999 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000, 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tax of El 52.75. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £118,464 calculated to Include valuation fee E155. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan £150,000. The rate applies to bans up to and Including 95% of the purchase price or valuation, w hi chever Is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable for two years. alter which the then current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This Is usually In the loan of a Risk Charge.

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12

The Link Magazine • March 1999

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Yo, Minister Mo Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Mo Mowlem, made a big impression on young people at the Swindon Foyer in Bath Road, Old Town when she called in during a visit to Swindon on 21 January.

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Mo Mowlem with residents of The Foyer and Swindon College trainers, members of Jephson Housing Association. Swindon MPs Michael Wills middle, third from left, Julia Draw, centre middle

Ends 7th March

After a tour of the building, Dr Mowlem was presented with a collection of poems written by some of the young people during their Wordpower literacy sessions.

She then chatted with residents over tea and biscuits Jane, one of the first to move in to the Foyer, said, "she looked at my room; I thought she was going to be really snobby but she was a lovely person, down to earth like us, really chatty."

"She makes you feel relaxed and lets you have your say," added Ricky, who also said that Dr Mowlem talked of pressing for more facilities of this kind for young people.

• 1999 range of rustic Mexican Segusino furniture now in • New shipments of Indian oak furniture • Spice Island mahogany

Managed by Jephson Housing Association, the Foyer, offers affordable accommodation linked to training and guidance for 16 to 25 year olds (30 if disabled).

There are 60 smart furnished bed-sits with en-suite facilities, including eight specially equipped for people with disabilities, with shared kitchens, training and common rooms.

Swindon College have kitted out a room with computers to give residents access to information technology training.

If you or anyone you know might benefit from a place at the Swindon Foyer, contact Caroline Duffy on 531679.

Left, Mo Mowlem gives Foyer manager Caroline DuffIj the look she might lay ioment later on the likes of Gerry Adams. Right, all smiles

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LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER COVERSUR Health and Housing

13

Big issues considered by Swindon South MP Julia Drown The long-awaited Government go- so that they can maximise this type ahead for a new hospital for Swin- of development. don, and the announcement that The issue is particularly relevant the Science Museum has been to Swindon because if we can given the money to set up a Na- achieve a higher density of tional Collections Centre in the old housebuild on our brownfield sites hangars at Wroughton, ushered in we will reduce the pressure to de1999 for me. velop our precious green fields on I recently visited the Accident the edge of town. and Emergency Department at It is anticipated that many of the PMH to congratulate them on han- new households formed in the dling the difficult winter pressures coming years will consist of just well. They are very much looking one person. With this in mind, it forward to the new hospital where makes sense to consider building they will have nearly double the apartments that we see in Paris, space to carry out their vital work. Cheltenham, Edinburgh and also Housing and our twin town of planning issues Salzgitter. are on the naNo one is sugtional and local gesting that we should bring skyagendas at the scrapers to Swinmoment. On 18 don, but high January, I was quality apartpleased to have ments in four-stothe opportunity rey buildings for to speak to the example, would Swindon Urban be welcomed by Regeneration many single peoand Greenfield ple and couples.

Environment Julia Drown z vith Westlea This would reNetwork (Urgent after school cl ub children, Ben lease pressure on - see below) about what the Govern- Chamberland and Charlotte Adams sites elsewhere and might allow ment is doing to encourage brownfield develop- Swindon Council to reconsider ment, building on previously de- their Front Garden proposal. veloped sites rather than on green I have been urging the Government to change the tax system to fields.

The target for the proportion of encourage more conversions and new homes to be built on renovations of existing houses, brownfield sites has been increased rather than always looking to new from 50% to 60%. We have also set build. The Government should up a national task force to help also investigate the tax system to local authorities identify and make make brownfield land more attracthe best use of brownfield land. tive than it currently is in compariWe want to increase their powers son with greenfield sites.

In early February I very much enjoyed opening the extension to Westlea After-School Club. The children, staff and parents are all very enthusiastic about the club; this is exactly the sort of quality childcare schemes that the Government wants to encourage.

If you would like to get in touch with me on any issue, then please write to me at 39 Victoria Road, Swindon SN1 3AT, or contact my office by ordinary phone or textphone on Swindon 615444.

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It's Urgent in Swindon Swindon Urgent, set up late last year, is a voluntary network of individuals and organisations concerned about continued expansion of development into the countryside. Its name stands for Urban Regeneration and Greenfield Environment NeTwork.

The group is calling for: improvements in housing provision to meet the needs of local people; assurances that brownfield sites, empty buildings, windfall sites and existing supplies of land are used before any more countryside is built on; a greenbelt around Swindon is created to protect its rural setting and maintain its separate identity; the provision of quality, reliable, efficient public transport To find out more about Swindon Urgent, contact Charmian Spickernell on 850007 or Jean Saunders on 783040.

Forest for the next millennium The 21st Century Swindon Forum is organising a public meeting for Monday 15 March, 7pm, at Broad Green, Community Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon.

Great Western Community Forest team leader, Paul Pennycook, will give an illustrated talk entitled Forests for a New Age and will cover the progress on the plan to create new woodland and recreational areas in and around Swindon and how the town expansion might scupper these plans. For more information telephone 01793 784534.

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Look out for a video quiz starting in Swindon's libraries on 3 April.

There will be questions for adults and children and several prizes to be won at the end of May writes Vikki Ring.

There are lots of new films to lent special effects and is a real hire from many of our libraries roller-coaster of a ride. It stars including several titles starring among others the hilarious John some of Hollywood's leading men, Goodman, Ruby Wax and Hugh Michael Douglas in the The Game, Laurie to name but a few.

Brad Pitt in Seven Years in Tibet, As Good as it Gets Jack Nicholson Jack Nicholson, As Good As It Gets, George Clooney in The Peacemaker and Helen Hunt star in this bitter and many titles for all the family sweet comedy about Melvin Udall including Mousehunt and The Bor- a reclusive obsessive character who takes pride in offending everyone rowers.

Titles coming soon include Good- he comes into contact with, whilst at the same time being the author will Hunting ( Matt Damon, Ben of romantic novels. However one Affleck) GI Jane (Demi Moore), I day he is forced to do a good tu rn Know What You Did Last Summer for a neighbour and slowly disand many more.

We have recently introduced a covers that he might have a heart new cheaper category of video for after all. Jack Nicholson is brilliant not recently released film titles so as Melvin who has you laughing many old favourites can now be one moment and crying the next.

The Game The game is what happens when Nicholas Van Orton Here are three of the new titles on the man who has everything reoffer in a libra ry near you. ceives the birthday gift of a lifeThe Borrowers Thestoryofa group time from his wayward younger of four inch high people that live brother. Van Orton changes from under the stairs of a house occu- a man in control of his life to a man pied, in their eyes at least, with fighting to stay sane and alive. This giants. The story is based on the is a gripping, thought provoking well known children's book by th ri ller which keeps you intrigued Mary Norton. The film has excel- right up to the end.

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music featuring sitar and tabla (Indian kettledrum). He also led lecture demonstrations in World Music.

Born in Surinam, a Dutch colony in South America, where his grandfather had been brought from India as a contract labourer to work the fields after the abolition of slavery, Fazal's early musical influences were Western. He learned to read music and played flute, bongos and conga.

When Fazal was 13 years old,

WINDOWS

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Link reporter Gina Dennis had interviewed Mohamed Fazal Soeleman for this edition only days before his sudden death from heart failure.

Fazal was a professional musician, performing concerts of Indian classical

CaHO/CE-Are theyoryeriny good ge of designs and various locking options?

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A talented and unique musician who lived in Toothill has tragically and unexpectedly died at the age of 39.

A suppl ier and installer at /ice Windows. doors and conservatories

his family moved to Holland. On leaving school, he joined the merchant navy and it was through his travels that, at 17, he first encountered Indian classical music in San

Francisco and instantly knew that this was what he wanted to do.

Fazal studied with a number of sitar masters in India. More recently he worked with Ustad Asad Ali Khan, receiving training in the sacred, meditative Dhrupad style of Khandarbani

gharana.

A committed Muslim, Fazal embraced Indian music as part of his spiritualjourney. He said that, for him when he played, "the note, the music, is about being absolutely in the here and now."

Fazal's faith permeated his day to day living, his music and his thinking. He recognised the commonality of human experience, despite the differences in our religious symbols.

But he believed in Islam as the last and greatest religion. He died, as he would have wished, at prayer and at peace.

Muslims are asked to to read Sourate Yasin for him.

15

^s7mn , '^

ENNQTA NT Musicals

3now booking

P11 THE LINI( MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WNAT`S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Latest Lit Fest signings Swindon Festival of Literature director Matt Holland writes Some great late signings have been made for this year's Swindon Festival of Literature in early May, which already includes Royal biographer Penny Junor, the title of whose latest book asks a key question, Charles: Victim or Villain?; and former health minister and now broadcaster and novelist, Edwina Currie, who will be appearing at the De Vere Hotel on 6 May. Newly added to the line-up is Beryl Bainbridge, hailed as one of the greatest living English novelists. She will be talking about her writing at the Arts Centre on 5 May. One of her latest books, Every Man For Himself, deals with characters on board the Titanic.

Two other late signings come from the world of television.

Arabella Weir is a comic writer and star of television's The Fast Show, while quirky traveller Benedict Allen hasfilmed adventures with camels and crocodiles that are something to write home about.

Another fascinating participant will be veteran broadcaster Ludovic Kennedy, who will be discussing the book he 'always wanted to write'. His newly-published All in the Mind, challenges fixed religious ideas.

The second annual Clive Brain Memorial Lecture will be given at

one at this year's festival, which happens in venues all around Swindon from 1 to 9 May. The official 20 page programme will be unveiled at Dillons Bookshop at 12 noon on 18 March.

If you would like to receive one or want to know more about the festival telephone 771080.

Fest on the web The Link magazine will be sponsoring this year's Swindon Festival of Literature onto the Internet.

You'll be able to check out the programme after it is launched, and stories leading up to the event, at www.swindonlink.com

Phantom of the Opera Bristol, Wednesday 7 April, matinee, child £22.50, adult £30 Annie (direct from the West End) Bristol Saturday 9 October, matinee, child £22, adult £24 London shows also now booking:

Oklahoma West Side Story Whistle Down the Wind The Lion King Prices inclusive of coach travel

To book, call: 01793 772729

or 0775 991700

Penny Junor Swindon College this year by Tony Buzan, founder of The Brain Trust, originator of Mind Maps and advisor to Olympic athletes and the British chess team.

Other ground-breaking writers appearing at the festival include author of The Selfish Gene, Professor Richard Dawkins; and outspoken philosopher and social commentator Roger Scruton, who writes and speaks on everything from culture to countryside, fox hunting to sexual desire.

And that's not the half of it! Look out. There's something for every-

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Chicken Cognac c Lamb Demerara Salmon Citrus To name just a few of our special delights all freshly prepared at the Bolingbroke

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Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves An old fashioned bookshop for customers who like things the way they used to be with a standard of service for today. Book tokens available

Tuesday 2 March Talk Women on the Railways by Workshop Make a willow garden Rosa Matheson. GWR Museum, obelisk. Jardinerie Garden Centre, 7.30pm. £2.50 10am - 4pm. £10, book on 852736 Friday 12 March Dance Spirit of the Dance. Wyvern, Music The Albion Band, (below).

2.30pm & 8pm. £10.50 Arts Centre, 8pm. £8

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Bloom plus support. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Friday 5 March Music Young Lions - Old Tigers. An evening of music by Al Cohn, Johhny

Mandel and Charlie Parker. Arts

tions. Oasis, 10.30am-4.30pm.

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Thursday 4 March Comedy Adam

Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Saturday 6 March Workshops Action with Animation for 8 - 12 yr olds. 6 week course.

Town Hall Studios. £43, tel: 463210 Workshops TV production for Young Adults. 6 week course. Town Hall Studios, 1 pm - 3pm. £43, tel: 463210 for details Family Little Angel Theatre presents The Elves and the Shoemaker. Suit 3-8 yrs. A rt s Centre, 2.30pm. £4.50 Sunday 7 March Craft Fair Traditional & contemporary crafts, displays & demonstra-

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Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy Club. Mackenzie's, Wood Street, Swindon. £5 Wednesday 3 March Comedy Ennio Marchetto. Wyvern, 8pm. £10

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Adults £1, OAP 50p, u15 free Music That'll Be The Day. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £11.50 Monday 8 March Music The Music Club presents Dauntsey School: 4 mini recitals by A level students. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Tuesday 9 March to Saturday 13 March Musical The Yeoman of the Guard presented by Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Soc. Wyvern. P8.50-25.50 Thursday 11 March Workshop Make a willow garden obelisk. Jardinerie Garden Centre, 10am - 4pm. £10, book on 852736 Wednesday 10 March Drama Swindon College Drama Group devised pe rf ormances. Swindon College main hall, 7.30pm. Free Thursday 11 March Comedy Kissing Sid James by

Robert Farquhar, a very funny adult comedy performed by Hull Truck Theatre. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £8.50

Saturday 13 March Children's activity Oriental Odyssey - board a tall ship and travel to the mysterious East, for 5-11 yr olds.

Swindon Museum, 2pm - 4pm. £2 Drama A Judith Hockaday School production - to be announced. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4 Sunday 14 March Children The Chuckle Brothers (right). Wyvern, 2pm & 5pm. £7.50 Music The Swindon Recital Series with Robin Colvill, piano & Kim Colvill, narrator. Arts Centre, 3pm. £8, tickets only from 644051 Monday 15 March Comedy On The Piste. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50 Music The Music Club. A rt s Centre, 7.45pm Tuesday 16 March Masterclass/Drama. A morning master-class followed by a producti on of Ibsen's A Doll's House, for Yr 11 students & above. Arts Centre.

Book on 01223 832288 Wednesday 17 March Workshop Create a garden mosaic.

Jardinerie Garden Centre, 10am 4pm. £10, book on 852736 Music College Concert: an evening of music & songs performed by students. Swindon College, 7.30pm Wednesday 17 March to Friday 19 March Music China Song. Wyvern, 2pm & 7pm. £9.50 Wednesday 17 March to Saturday 27 March (excl Sun 21st) Music 90th Annual Swindon Music Festival. Arts Centre Saturday 20 March & Sunday 21 March Gardening Spring weekend demonstrations & advice at Jardinerie Garden Centre, Sat 9am - 5pm, Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm Saturday 20 March Music Dennis Locorriere The Voice of Dr Hook. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14.50 Sunday 21 March

Music Swindon Young Musicians Gala Conce rt s. Link Centre, Junior Gala: 3pm, Senior Gala: 7pm

March overview Monday 22 March & Tuesday 23 March Ballet English National Ballet with excerpts from the classics. Wyvern, Mon & Tues, 7.30pm, Tues 2.30pm. £6 - £16 Wednesday 24 March Music Conce rt featuring the Soshin Girls' School Band from Japan, Swindon Youth Wind Band & Youth Jazz Orchestra. Holy Rood RC Church, 7pm Thursday 25 March to Saturday 27 March Drama A Streetcar Named Desire presented by Swindon College, all student cast. Main hall, 7.30pm Friday 26 March Talk Geology of Swindon Hill: A Unique Jurassic Asset by Bill Wimbledon. Swindon Museum, 7.30p. £4 Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14.50 Saturday 27 March to Sunday 11 April Children's trail 'Upstairs, Downstairs' prize trail for 5 to 11 yr olds.

Lydiard House. £1 incl admission

Saturday 27 March Children's activity Invitation to the Banquet, suit 5 to 11 yr olds, Lydiard House, 2pm - 4pm. £2 incl adm.

Book on 770401 Music Charlie Landsborough. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14

17 Sunday 28 March Family Circus Hilarious. Wyvern, 2pm. £6 Monday 29 March Children Humpty Dumpty. Wyvern, 11.30am & 2.30pm. £5.50 Tuesday 30 March Children's activity Make a mascot. GWR Museum, 2pm - 4pm. £2 Comedy Punchline Comedy Club.

Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Wednesday 31 March Children's activity Mob Caps and White Gloves. suit 5 to 11 year olds.

Lydiard House, 2pm - 4pm. £2 incl adm. Book on 770401

Fi lm at the Arts Centre Wednesday 3 March, 7.45pm Swingers (15) A hip comedy about male insecurities among a gang of wisecracking, aspiring Hollywood actors. SFS Saturday 6 March & Tuesday 9 March, 7.45pm Elizabeth (15) A thrilling exploration of the early years of the reign of Elizabeth I. £3.50 Wednesday 10 March, 7.45pm Un air de Famille (15) Friday night is family night and the Manard family convene in the restaurant run by the eldest son. As the drink flows so do some home truths.... Presented by SFS Tuesday 16 March, 7.45pm Still Crazy (15) A bittersweet musical comedy starring Bill Nighy, Timothy Spall, Billy Connolly and Jimmy Nail. 21 years after their last gig, a rock band is reassembled for a reunion .... £3.50 Wednesday 31 March, 7.45pm My Name is Joe (15) Ken Loach's latest film. Unemployed Joe starts a relationship with a community worker in a tough Glasgow neighbourhood. SFS

GIANT (ARD ( FOR ALL OCCASIONS..

Mothers Day Eft. greeting cards

For details, call Joanna on

For further details and to book call 771080

Maintenance we also deliver hellium

01793 692929 balloons in a box

Call Mark Hodgson on (01793) 879381

It's

mbI11g

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VISITOR .CENTRE

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon. Tel: 01793 763939 Signed of A420 & A361. 3 miles NE of Swindon

Open every Sat & Sun ONLY 6th March - 11th April & EVERY DAY Easter School Holidays 11 am - 5pm (last admission 4.30pm) * Bottle feeding & meet all the farm animals *Rural craft demonstrations Granary Tea Rooms * 7 Nature walks * Bouncy castle an d ball pond * Adventure play area * Toddlers indoor play area * NEW Willow `Beastie' and Maze Group and school visits all year by arrangement

Tribute to Iarti Pellow'Aj Wet ' Wet,\Wei With Paul Doody, winner of 'Stars in their Eyes'

Saturday 6 March, 10am - 4pm Willow Structures Living willow will make delightful structures, like garden arches, play dens and arbours. Dried willow is also pliable and will bend into plant supports, and wreaths that can be decorated. £25, includes lunch, take home materials extra Friday 12 to Sunday 14 March Working Weekend The garden is being made ready for April seedings, sunshine and showers. Come for all or part of the weekend. No charge Friday 19 to Sunday 21 March Spring Stretch Yoga, massage, Qi Gong all on offer. Call for non-residential price Wednesday 31 March, 2pm - 4pm Easter Crafts An afternoon of Easter crafts including egg blowing and decorating for 5 - 12 year olds. £5

Website Design, Setup &

delivered to your door

Lower Shaw Farm

Sunday 7 March, 10.30am - 1.30pm Bread Baking Learn how to bake bread with fresh yeast. Followed by a wholesome lunch. £10 Wednesday 10 March, 10am- 12.30pm, & bring a picnic Under 5s Activity Morning Feed the hens, collect the eggs, visit and feed the black sheep, watch frogs and other pond life, sow seeds in the garden, paint, draw, model and play. £5 per family. Limited places so please book in advance

upirSstems

fI

7.30pm for 8.00pm Four Course Dinner Late Bar Disco until lam £22.50 per person

For further details call Caroline on 01793 878785

Sc?Actd

18

ere- 4 Salsa - great fun, great keep fit free classes for adults and kids

Alan & Valerie Watkins invite you to join them at

Now introducing live music every Sunday evening Good selection of bar snacks and restaurant food.

Why not join us on Mothering Sunday and we will give you a free bottle of house wine for every table of 4 or more.

High Street, Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL7 3AE

Tel/fax: (01367) 252198

Salsa is the fastest growing popular dance in the count ry and Swindon Salsa specialists Ritmo Latino are now adding extra classes at the Crossways Suite, Moonrakers, Cricklade Road, Swindon.

Top Salsa dance teacher Nigel class sta rt s on Wednesdays 3 Maye, recently featured on BBC2, March, 9.30am and 10.30am, at gives classes for absolute beginners

ends with a disco where steps

learned earlier can be practised.

On 15 March the first of the weekly

'SalsaKids' dance classes take place.5pmto5.40pmfor7to9year

DEVELOPMENT _^^` _ THROUGH DRAMA! ^i^-'` Our drama programme is designed to develop ongoing / ! \\ confidence , self-esteem and communication skills.

PRIMARY CLASSES: Children find our classes fun and highly motivating and parents everywhere are delighted with the results YOUTH THEATRE: Become involved in our stimulating Theatre Arts programme for 12- 17 yr olds

Classes now enrolling at: Swindon Link Centre, Hardon Wick, West Swindon (Greendown School), Croft Sports Centre, Wroughton & Cricklade

Helen O'Grady CHILDREN'S DRAMA ACADEMY For further details please phone:Principal Jenny Hatch on 01672 520 528

:

:. .

BS GRO UP STADIA

Swindon Greyhounds Abbey Stadium

FreshbrookCommunity Centre and

at 8pm each Monday, and the first on Mondays, from 15 March, from class is absolutely free. No pa rt ner 6.45 to 7.45pm at the Crossways is needed, and there are later Suite, Moonrakers. Classes cost classes at improvers and £3. intermediate levels. The evening Salsa and Merengue dancing is one of the best forms of exercise for

burning off any excess calories and it's great fun. SalsaFit classes are more forexercise purposes than

the dance classes where the full

olds; 5.50 to 6.30pm for 10 to 12

range of steps, turns and the

year olds. Classes cost £2.

A new SalsaFit' Exercise Dance

sensational Salsa style can be learned.

Red Nose Salsa in Swindon: 12 March at the Link Centre. All proceeds to Comic Relief SalsaKids disco including limbo-dancing 5pm - 7pm £2.50 SalsaFit dancing for exercise 7.15pm - 7.45pm £2

Salsa dance class and disco

8.30pm - lam

£5

Tickets in advance from Ritmo Latino on 01793 814354 or Monday evenings at the Moonrakers, or on the Link Centre door

Get ready for Lions May Fayre Brian Fisher writes:

For many years readers of The Link have supported the annual May Fayre organised by Wootton Bassett and District Lions Club. This year's show will take place on Monday 3 May at Lydiard Park.

The main arena attractions include the Warwick Girls Marching Band, London Flyers Gymnastic Team and Over The Top Motorcycle Team plus all the other usual exciting events.

Trade or charity stalls are available by contacting John Bartlett on 494909. Car boot stalls can be arranged through Peter Gee on 528181 Please put the date in your diary and come along for a great day out.

Lady Lane, Blunsdon

Racing every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, First race 7.30pm

BLINDS

Bars, Tote & Raceview Restaurant

Please admit two for the price of one with this voucher (inclusive of racecard)

Any evening

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If no reply call 0800 181958 O

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FREE MEASURING AND FITTING CONSERVATORY BLIND SPECIALIST Interest Free Credit

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.Scuurd

'ide - 5

Unique project gives kids a crashing time

19

®/I(SJE

Youngsters from Brimble Hill and Uplands special schools continue to

make sweet music, thanks to the Pegasus Brass Band and £5,000 from the Swindon Arts Foundation which is backed by local companies.

For all your Host Families required for young foreign students attending English language courses in Swindon.

Six day programme arranged Good remuneration

John Winten7ood, centre rear, and Paul Ashman, right, with Brimble Hill teacher Julian Sands and children, from left, Aleia Kibaili, Rebecca Batchelor, Glen Steward, Lucy Fox. Front, Jason Emms

last year that we wanted to extend it by working more closely with

studios in Stratton, run by director of music John Winterflood and

teachers by providing instruments and accompanying music. I think

percussionist Paul Ashman, who

we are the only brass band in the

li ves in Abbey Meads.

John Winterflood said £2,000 of

country to embark on such a project."

the grant has been spent on instru-

Pegasus Brass has also received

ments for the schools, to be used

£18,000 funding from WH Smith

with a music package put together

by Pegasus Brass, which includes

Community Links programme to install recording and playback

music specially recorded by the

equipment so that it is easier to

senior band.

ALSO

supplies

tapestry & embroidery DMC stranded cotton in stock

or (01672) 539561

for details

Tel: 01793 848855

ART

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DQ YOU WANT A 1st CLASS SERVICE? :• Our reputation has been built over nearly 50 years of professional property management :• Local & nationwide advertising v Wide range of se rv ices, from introduction only to full management

Peter Long & Partners

maketheirmusicavailableforedu-

"The project was so successful

CROSS STITCH

18 Apsley House Arcade Wootton Bassett

Please contact Nita Martin on (01672) 539368

Now weekly workshops can be continued atthe Pegasus rehearsal

Amok Wfts

16 High Street, Old Town, Swindon

cational purposes.

Pick up your discount card from Rudi's and ENJOY A FREE STARTER(worth

up to 2.5O)

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CIA"- OFFER CARD SPEAvailable gudi's from 21 Re

victoria Taface

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r lies Offe app

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Mr Abdul Noor and his friendly staff invite you to dine with them and enjoy their mouth watering cuisine

TRADITIONAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

13 Victoria Road, Swindon (opp. Swindon College) • Excellent choice of dishes v Extensive range of wines & spirits

o

v Party bookings welcome v Half price on main courses for Sunday = lunches from 12 noon to 3pm ER

r

•

Takeaway service - 10% discount

•

Open: 12noon - 2pm; 5.30pm to midnight

Tel: (01793) 534416/496159

RECREATION

20

Croquet could be for you

DIANA RICHARDSON MIFHB IHBC IIHHT Mobile Aromath eraPi c t & e Bean fv Th raP ist

Telephone: 01793 695185

^

John Airey, coach for Swindon Croquet Club, writes.

The club extends a welcome to croquet players and anyone wishing to have a go at the game. We have two and a half lawns, provided and well maintained by Swindon Council, at Moredon Community Sports Centre. We play golf croquet on Tuesdays, which is a good social evening.

Wednesday evenings is club night, for all levels of play and includes coaching for improvers.

For anyone wishing to learn to play croquet, the club runs beginners courses during the season. For details call 873026.

<< LIME KILN LEISURE CENTRE

Ek

^•

WOOTTON BASSETT

EASTER HALF TERM 29th March - 1st April • 6th April - 9th April For children 5 - 7 yrs & 8 -12 yrs 9.30am to 3.30pm each day Additional su ervision available 830am to 9.30am & 3.30pm to 5.30pm •

A full day packed with fun A great idea for working

parents

Cricket in March!

What does cricket make you think of? Hot summer days, men in dazzling whites, teas, Atherton out for another duck?, asks Rob Miller of Highworth Cricket Club.

We have a thriving cricket club which runs four teams every weekend with training sessions and cup matches during the week. New players are always welcomed and with a mixture of Wiltshire League and friendly matches, there is something for all abilities.

We currently hold indoor net training sessions at Croft Sports Centre from 8pm to 9pm on Thursdays, and there are separate under 13s training sessions and matches.

To find out more, call club captain Bob Groves on 763082.

EASTER CRASH COURSES Four day courses in Swimming • Soccer skills • Snorkelling • Tennis • Basketball • Rookie Lifeguard BOOK NOW NPLO

For more information call (01793) 197 or 850515

Nation Pool Lifeguard Qualification • 16 yrs plus Sat 10 April 17 April to

Nort Wiltshire DZ oun

Counil c

Improve fitness, confidence and self-defence in a friendly environment!

CLASSES AT: Haydon Centre Sunday 6pm - 7pm Trax Fitness Centre Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm Over 14's only £3.00 per lesson a

i

ITIU

II

'

Get Fit - Gain Confidence and have FUN!

Swimmers take on the best Bradon Forest School swimmers competed in the national schools relay championships on 6 February and produced creditable results against exclusive private schools.

The team of Simon and David Blythin of Wroughton Swimming Club, plus James Blastland and Gavin Pickett who swim for Tigersharks, came second to Millfield in the intermediate boys frees ty le relay, and were fourth in the intermediate medley relay.

Bradon PE teacher Sarah Evans said the boys performance were a credit to the school. Simon Blythin Holding their medals and English put in a personal best for the 50 Schools shield, from left, James metres on the day.

Blastland, Simon and David Blythin

Swimathon entries still open BT is hoping to raise £2m for the NSPCC and other charities during their annual Swimathon event.

You can take part in Europe's biggest participation fundraiser at the Link Centre on 20 and 21 March, swimming either individually or as part of a team.

There is an entry fee of £6.50 (£3.50 conc.) for individuals, £12 (£7 conc.) for a team of 2 and £15

f

(£10.50 conc.) for teams of 3,4 or 5.

Swimmers are also encouraged to raise sponsorship. Prize gifts of increasing value are awarded to those raising more than £25.

To enter, collect an entry form from Link Centre or call the registration freephone 0800 731 7316.

°

SWIM

No waiting lists * Quality lessons * Experienced teachers * Small classes or individual tuition *

* Everybody catered for - beginners, improvers

serious swimmers * All ages - 4 to 94

and

O

SCI4O

L

RECREATION

Swindon's new hope for Olympic gold After many trials and tribulations, things are looking up for British pairs ice skating champion Andrew Seabrook.

Before Christmas his boots were stolen, then his skating partner Marsha Poloushenko returned to the Ukraine to help her family in economic hardship, which meant lottery funding dried up.

But now Andrew has teamed up with Claire Dawson, an 18 year old from Telford.

It means they have to pass all their National Skating Association tests and develop a winning routine, but sponsors Barclaycard have assured the couple that funding is secure.

It is wonderful Barclaycard is continuing to back us, even though we have to prove ourselves," said Andrew. "Clare was already training at Link Centre and we thought it might be an idea to try a few

Monday: 5.45pm & 8.00pm & Thursday: 7.00pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick.

Nicole, 338786 Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny. 613423

Cambridge Diet.

Thursday: 11.00am & 12noon Wyvern Theatre. Sharon, 873317

Tempted?

'Phone your Cambridge Diet Counsellor on 873201

moves. It is really hard work, but we are starting to click."

Their first target is to win the British Championships at the end of the year, then continue building the new partnership towards the Salt Lake City Olympics in Winter

Thursday: 7.00pm Freshbrook Community Centre.

Worsley Rd. Jenny, 613423

Stress, anxiety, joint pain, migraines, low energy levels..?

Did you know that acupuncture can help these and many other conditions?

^

2002.

Appointments now available at:

Supermarine Bowmen start a six week beginners course in the ancient sport of archery from Thursday 8 April.

All equipment will be provided and training is given by qualified coaches. The cost is £25.00 and the

Swindon Road Club is the largest and most succesful cycling club in the area and new members are always welcome to join.

Members are active in all areas of cyclesport including mountainbiking, time trials and road racing.

Non-competitive leisure cycling is also encouraged.

To find out more about the programme, call Bryan Telford on

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic,West Swindon

Telephone: 01793 887801

z

Hct 4

Ju-jitsu club has places for new members

Aromatherapy, Massage and Sports Therapy treatments also available.

B q. If F

WR&G BARN

N T a . 1„h

ountry

C

Club

Shrivenham Road, Highworth, Swindon, Wilts

T

Located in beautiful rolling Wiltshire countryside,

Wrag Barn offers a superb venue for Corporate/Society days.

AD

Typical Package includes: 36 Holes of Golf Coffee & Biscuits Lunch & 3 Course Dinner Complimentary Range Balls & Gift Pack Golf Tuition from PGA Professional

Take away stresses and strains with aromatherapy in the home Chris Cosway from Freshbrook has come up with a new way to achieve relaxation and relief from stress, colds and flu, skin problems and sports injuries by hiring out portable aromatherapy steam saunas.

He will deliver one to the home where they plug into the mains.

There is no plumbing involved. The vertical capsule takes up little floor space, and the user sits within it to breath in the steam and oil infusion.

Depending on the relief required, there are different formulated oils to rejuvenate tired bodies and stimulate the mind.

If you need help with improving sleep, weight loss, or just want a comfortable way to relax in the home, give Chris a call on 887960 or 0961

1^

Lic.Ac. MBAcC.

726020.

Swindon Ju-Jitsu club at Greendown School caters for all ages interested in learning a martial art.

It meets on Mondays and Thursdays, 6.45pm to 7.45pm for juniors and 8pm to 9.30pm for seniors.

Coached by 3rd Dan Black Belt teachers Bharj Baj and Steve Cole, pictured right, the club provides training in all aspects of ju-jitsu, from sport and competition fighting to learning self-defence techniques that can be used in everyTo find out more, call Steve Cole day situations if needs be. on 872445 or Baj on 642447.

373240.

YOUR NEAREST CLASS

Velvet - the ready to drink

On the road

course takes place at the

Sin nd Slim!

Luxurious Chocolate

Archers forward

Supermarine Sports and Social Club, South Marston.

For details or to book, contact Peter Heads on 01793 338586.

21

Green Fees: Monday - Thursday £22.00 Friday & Weekends £30.00 «_

L...

For further details on Golf Packages, please telephone (01793) 861327

22

RECREATION

Busy Valentines for new florist

BELVOIR Belvoir provides a most complete and professional Property Management Service.

Our reputation, competitive rates and personal service are acknowledged throughout the UK.

Hundreds help Shaw tip country park to grow

It was an eventful February for Link reader Denise Wells after Three and a half thousand new trees were added to the Great Western she launched her new florist ry Community Forest on 14 February at a Valentine forest fun day on business - La Fleur de Nice - at Shaw tip, Swindon's new country park in the making.

Jardinerie Garden Centre.

March will be equally hectic with Mothers Day on 14th of the month.

The winner of La Fleur de Nice competition in the February Link was Will Cox from Grange Park who surprised his girlfriend Melanie Shuttleworth with a prize bouquet when she joined him from Scotland for Valentine's weekend.

Will, with Denise Wells, right, and staff Micl^clle Evans and Mika Furulmi/ I

Landlords & Tenants, for information, listings, insurance, Buy to Let schemes and impartial advice:

John and Brigette Wilkinson from Sparcells with daughters Laura and Rachel and countryside ranger Michael Lilley plant a tree for the future

Over 1,500 people of all ages braved wind, rain and deep mud toplantthe trees, scatterwild flowers, build bird boxes and watch a chilly Romeo proclaim his love for a frozen Juliet on an open air stage.

Community Forest marketing officer Sarah Beard said, "it was wonderful to see such commitment to changing the environment. People really want to make a difference for future generations."

Call Belvoir Now FREEPhone 0800 731606 9 Fax 01249 760670 E-mail Wiltshire @ belvoirgroup.com http://www.belvoirgroup.com

Shaw dentist John Wilkinson and his family visited the tree they planted at a similar event in 1995.

Whilst dedicating another, he said, "West Swindon is so built up that it is good that people who live in the area are helping to establish another park."

The site has been used as a tip since 1947. It could be 2047 before the trees have matured and it is ready for use as a park.

1

Al

Find us in

A

Jardinerie Garden Centre

l a F! e it r d e Ni c e

Hay Lane, Wroughton Just off Junction 16 of the 1V14 Or Phone us on 01793

849800

v

for Delivery

All Major credit cards accepted

Swindon's Continental Florist

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Maaazine • March 1999

Get your garden fit

GARDENING

Tih+e to, aCC ap Me $AMch

0 Grass cutting 0 Pruning shrubs, etc.

0 Garden clearance General garden maintenance

2,2,3,4,5 yards capacity 5 days given to fill skip 2.3 tonne Mini-digger for hire

Freephone 0800 - 387613

A

COMPETITIVE PRICES FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £50

Units IA & 1B, Gipsy Lane Business Park, Gipsy Lane, Swindon SN2 601

.

ov d*n tGG, f l/e d Gt aGG

Tel: 01793 - 702076 G LAN

4

i— --------1

^ N S PING

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board/ Panels/Gates • Block Paving • Patios, Paths, Turfing • Hedging & Mowing

No job too small Give me a call for a free quote.

Contact John Wadsworth on Swindon

Tel: 731610

OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS

Clearance & General Maintenance

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN?

'

HOUSES MADE TO ORDER

Paths & Ponds, Fencing,

Tel: 874806 or 0467 394098

SHIPS

A WIDE VARIETY OF SHEDS & SUMMER

Landscaping, Patios,

Cfvr u free vxvte

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Purton Garden Machinery I Tel: 0831719962

or 770707 (after 5pm) Spares 0 Repairs 0 Servicing Overhauls to petrol & electric New & used machinery for sale I Part exchange welcome I Rotavator for hire with or without operator Lawn mowing, scarifying and rough grass cutting, on a one off or regular basis L - -------- I

J PLEASANT SURROUNDINGS IN BRIGHT NEW SHOP LARGE UNDER COVER AREA FOR BEDDING PLANTS LARGE UNDER COVER AREA FOR 5HRUBS AND TREES PATIO CAFE - DRINKS, HOME-MADE CAKES AND LIGHT MEALS LARGE RANGE OF PATIO AND CONSERVATORY FURNITURE NOW IN STOCK HOUSE PLANTS FROM ALL OVER EUROPE

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YOU'LL FIND US JUST OFF J1O OF THE M4

ON THE WFOUGHTON ROAD

TEL: 01793 852736

%iij

24

The Link Magazine • March 1999

Public meeting about health and social services for older people Following the closure of wards at St Margaret's Hospital and changes to community based services which have been planned over the last two years, Age Concern Swindon is organising a public meeting on Wednesday 17 March, 2pm, at the Drove Centre, Swindon.

"The pattern of services and their nature is changing," says Age Concern Swindon director Jo Osorio.

"People need to know what they can expect from the NHS and the Council - and who has to pay, how much and for what. We hope this meeting will clarify the position."

Many older people's organisations have been invited, but individuals interested in finding out more are welcome to attend. For details, call Jo Osorio on 692166.

The 10 winners of the February Plea Nut and Slam buffet lunch competlUon C Brewer, Hunt Street, Swindon; Mrs L Spencer, Lucerne Close, Middleleaze; Mrs C Webb, Hathaway Road, Upper Stratton; Mr W Morse, Seaton Close, Greenmeadow; R Hunt, Cheviot Close, Shaw; J Giles, Cloudberry Rd, Haydon Wick; Mrs S Hibberd, Irston Way, Freshbrok; Mrs Aobome, Borage CI, Haydon Wick; D Sheppard, Moresby Cl, Westlea; F Rankine, Eworth Cl, Gr an ge Park

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP GUIDE TO MOTOR SERVICING

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NEW CAR, NEW TOWBAR Are you EC24/90 compliant? We are!

CAR AUDIO SERVICES Repair and service to all makes of car radios and

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cassettes de-code

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service available Tel: (01793) 480544

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DUNCAN CAR SPARES COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH PARTS REMOVED BY OUR OWN PERSONNEL I•

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GREENMEADOW SERVICE STATION Thames Avenue, Greenmeadow, Swindon Tel: 534501/535895

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FORD f3 VAUXHALL SPECIALISTS

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MOT repairs including welding MOT testing classes 3 & 4 including catalytic converters & diesels Unipart Car Care Centre

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Now also supply & fit tyres

No need to book for MOTs First come, first served

Labour rate still only £19 per hour + vat ..... special offer

Open: Monday to Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm

1 work completed by qualified mechanics supplying high standards at/ow prig

Saturday 8.00am - 3.00pm

MOTs still only £20 ..... special offer

Sunday 9.00am - 12 noon (MOTs only)

For a professional & friendly service

Friendly service and competitive prices

Tel: 01793 431 821

Phone for a quote, or come in and see us

Unit 4 River Ray Ind. Est., Barnfield Road, Swindon

25

The Link Magazine • March 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Even bigger discounts on bargain fabrics A Link advertiser has put the suc- years. It was her bank manager cess of her business down to the who suggested advertising in The response from readers.

Link; since September 1996, busiSue Cutcliffe, below, has sold ness has boomed.

"Judging by how many customhigh quality furnishing fabrics from two large barns next to her ers who find their way to us from house in Brinkworth for twelve Swindon, The Link magazine must be without question one of the best places to advertise," says Sue. "All the fabric we sell is from leading manufacturers, usually excess stock or discontinued lines.

It really is fabulous quality and the „ prices are about a third of the regular price."

Until 10 April, Sue is offering a tfi, further 10% off her prices with the as+ advertisement on page 3.

In conclusion, Sue says, "thank you Link readers. Do continue to y^ 1 come and visit us."

A beautiful keepsake of your most memorable day Also available for corsages, buttonholes, silk/sugarcraft flowers and other floral tributes. No pressing involved Zower's A unique service by Jan Haugh on

q

./ I

8

ore^er

01793 881991. Call anytime.

Graham McCallion

Catchlight Studio Our high quality work can be viewed in your own home Old family photographs restored Photography by

David Feather

Advanced digi

PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO WEDDINGS PORTRAIT'S COMMERCIA

ta l

techniques * If

Get a taste of community mediation

r

Product & commercial

A new community service is running a taster day for people interested in becoming mediators Costing £5, free to those on benefit, or £20 for individuals from statutory organisations, it takes place on Saturday13 March at Pinehurst Peoples Centre. A free creche will be provided.

The Community Mediation Service expects to be up and running later in 1999. The aim is to provide mediation so that disputes in the neighbourhood can be defused early on.

To book a place on the course, or to find out more, call Heather Malcolm on 538398.

151 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSE TT

Thamesdown

Upholsteryy & flooring

Specialists in all types of domestic upholstery, carpets & vinyls Free estimates. 25 years experience Tel: 728243 • Mobile: 0973 697 998

Friends look towards Millennium fund A grant application to the Family Millennium Fund is the next step for thriving West Swindon based friendship group, Friends.

The aim of the group is to link Extensions, loft conversion, members to three or four others specialists in all types of building & plaste ng who live close to them for friendship and social activities. SomeAll work , full insured times there is the opportunity for Contact Dave on 01793 488470 all members to come together for a larger event.

Following an appeal in the June 1998 Link, 16 women contacted Alison Deacon, right, of Shaw, herself new to Swindon. Since then, n Friends membership has grown Dx a^f fi e d ^usxter ^^ecaratr^r 01793) beyond all expectations to forty rr L: 9 cr/ r axd ^,rtrlor three members and is spreading professional mentor, a funding requirement. She sees the group beyond West Swindon. ^Jti1tiLGCtCJ Frc pss^ ^g Responding to the needs of this as particularly useful for women larger membership, Alison is ap- new to Swindon and says, "I am plying to the Family Millennium happy to put my clients in touch Fund, featured in December's edi- with Friends. It is a useful first II AMTICO BUILD LTD II tion. She hopes to develop Friends step in making contacts with other Nobody does wood more good by formalising the group's struc- people."

We rarely advertise as we pride If you would like to know more, ture, setting up a network of coDUNCAN ourselves on recommendation ordinators, producing newsletters, write to Alison, enclosing a Builders & Contractors Guild Member stamped self-addressed envelope, and planning quarterly events.

SELF DRIVE HIRE Quality carpentry & joinery designed Health Visitor Pam Millington at: 8 Packington Close, Shaw, SwinZlacvc 4oe& Recto€ eo r tc4 , & built to your specification has volunteered to act as Alison s don, SN5 9PB

Hillside Building Services"

ri

Breakfast all day at Toothill Centre The Kellogs/Cancer Research 'All Day Breakfast Campaign comes to Toothill Community Centre on Saturday 27 February, 9am to 4pm.

Local organiser Wendy Adams wants lots of families to get involved in an action-packed day which, apart from breakfast, will include a tabletop sale, auction, raffle, and games like 'Blind Date' and 'Play Your Cards Right', with prizes at stake.

For a friendly & personal service •

call Glyn on tel/fax (01793) 512570/706485 or (0410) 323383

a tree es ti mate

Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Cars • Vans • Lutons • Tail-lifts 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

Tel: 822193 FREE PARKING Open Daily 8.30am - 5.30pm Sundays 8 .30 am - 9.30 a m

"s '

26

The Link Maaazine • March 1999

National Childbirth Trust

NEARLY NEW SALE Baby, children and maternity clothes, baby equipment & toys

Oasis Leisure Centre Saturday 10 April 11am - 1pm • Adm: 50p All items sold on a 25% commission basis to the NCT Swindon Branch. No sale, no fee Call Julie Gauger on 887886 for seller's pack and information The NCT is a registered chan ty offering support and information in pregnancy, childbirth and ea rl y parenthood and aims to enable eve ry parent to make informed choices

Overcrowding in the maternity ward Farmer Rupert Burr writes

open for lambing again this year, but note the new times: Saturdays and Sunday only, during term time, from Saturday 6 March until Sunday 11 April.

However we'll be open every day during the Easter holidays, from 11am to 5pm. There is plenty

Over 550 expectant mothers, the majority expecting twins, are crowded into one large room. Beds are out of the question, there is no space, straw on the ground is the only comfort provided.

It is not as terrible as it sounds because it's lambing time at Roves Farm, near Highworth.

Roves Farm will be

to do whatever the weather, with a full range of animals to cuddle and stroke, bottle feed and indoor play areas. There are also lovely walks and adventure play areas on bright, breezy Spring days.

New for 1999 is our living willow maze by the visitor centre which was started last Spring and the Biomass 'Beastie', a living sculpture/maze in a field of willows. Come and explore and try to work out what it is.

Acorns Playgroup

Hooray for Rupert and Roves Farm

Holy Trinity Church at Shaw Village Centre has vacancies for children aged 3 to 5 on Tuesday and Friday mornings.

A long running battle with Swindon Council planners has been won by Rupert and Joanna Burr after restrictions on opening times were overturned by a Government inspector.

The council, in supporting the objections from 12 people from Sevenhampton village nearby, had claimed that the farm was not an appropriate place for income generating barn dances, wedding receptions and evening gatherings and the Burrs had to close after the Spring lambing season, making 8 people redundant and suspending plans for a 40 bed bunkhouse for school and group use.

The council received four thousand letters in support of Roves Farm, but the Burrs lost £70,000 in revenue which almost them ruined them whilst awaiting their appeal to be heard.

Roves Farm is now taking bookings for weddings and dances. For details, call 763939.

For details, call Sue Green on 872056 or drop into the playgroup a ft er 9.15am, any weekday morning except Wednesday

th 41'. :

^o^^ErF9,Z 2

77 High Street, Purton Bath Road, Cricklade Tel: 771869 Tel: 751698 Please telephone for consulting hour • All consultations by appointment

p

3=

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All breeds clipped, shampood

and finished to a high standard Collection & delivery service available

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Need someone to care for your pets whilst you are on holiday?

Perhaps Q °o we can help?

Worried who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday?

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

Whilst you are on holiday, we can care for your pet's needs anywhere in the Swindon vicinity & most surrounding areas. (excluding dogs)

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on

For further details contact Dona Tel: (01793) 729164 Fax: (01793) 729164

873062

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SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE David Warnes B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S. Shaw Village Centre Ramleaze Drive, Shaw Swindon SN5 9PY

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Caring for your pet's welfare and all his medical, surgical, nutritional and behavioural needs.

Specialised skin•and dental clinics, nurses clinics, home visits.

24 hour emergency service

Tel: (01793) 881919 Consultations by appointment Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm 24 HOUR EMERGENCY TREATMENT

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• ROO •

PET CARE a

a G

C^vKe r

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VETERINARY SURGEONS

a Simon Gower & Associates B.VSc., M.R.C.V.S.

North West Swindon, 62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am - 6.30pm Saturday 9.00am - 11.00am ^I

Telephone: 01793 526780

The Link Magazine • March 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Under 5s booklet needs information Last month The Link announced that we were helping the West Swindon Family and Community Project to update Toddler Out West, the out of print, but very useful, booklet of information for parents with under 5s.

Tumble Tots is Britain's leading national active play programme, for children from 6 months to 7 years. Our structured play is specially designed to build your child's self-c onfidence and sel f-e steem through:

°

We will also be including North social group for parents of this age Swindon in the new edition, and group, and would like to be inwill need suggestions for a new cluded, please send details as soon as possible to: Carol McGill, West name.

If you run a toddler or play- Swindon Family and Community group or some other group that Project, 15 Gainsborough Way, involves pre-school children, or a Freshbrook, Swindon.

27

O Developing physical skills of agility, balance and co-ordination

^L^ O Developing language with action songs and rhymes.

El Trained staff and specially designed Tumble Tots equipment.

O Great fun, with more than 60,000 Tumble Tots members and 450 centres in the UK.

Make music early Pre-school music workshop Music Time opens a new session in Purton, designed to cater for families in West and North Swindon.

The emphasis is on lots of fun with music, combined with movement, rhythm, song, circle games, finger plays and plenty of percussion work with a wide variety of quality instruments.

To find out more, call Tracy Treacher on 01285 713842 or Jane Phipps

Have fun at Music Time!

on 01285 713613.

fl

Pre-school not to be confused with nursery Many parents in Toothill, Freshbrook and Grange Park are under the impression that the Oliver Tomkins Pre-school has closed down since a nursery unit opened at Oliver Tomkins infants school.

The volunteer management committee would like to make it quite clear that the group is still going strong, and there are places available. In fact, an afternoon has been opened for unaccompanied children aged from two years and three months.

There are two afternoons for three year olds; the morning sessions are for 4 year olds.

Now in its eleventh year, the pre-school is the only one in West Swindon with its own building, off Beaumaris Road, Toothill.

To find out more, call 877299 between 9am and 3pm weekdays.

Sing new songs • learn new rhymes C

f

6

P

y,^ F,

'..

Meet Cleo Crochet and her friends in the Note family

/

Play sound and rhythm games • Explore the instruments

^ • • M•^^` •

Dance to the music and join in with the actions

NEW Purton Village Hall starting 5th March 1999

Sessions eve ry Friday for under 2yrs and 2 to 3 years+

Book now -Tei:01285 713613/713842 We also run workshops in: Cirencester every Wednesday Under 2's, 2-3's, 3+ years Fairford every Monday, Under 2's, 2-3's, 3+ years

Giving Your Child The Best In Quality Education

Left: Oliver Tomkins pre-school supervisor Judy Sturgess with Daniel Coombs and Sarah Finney

Ridgeway Pre-School Inverary Road, Wroughton

Quality education and childcare for 24 months to 5 years

[tp

Open 50 weeks a year, 8am-6pm

•.

COME AND SEE ... PLAY, TRY & BUY ON DISPLAY IN OUR FARMHOUSE GARDEN Slides • Climbing Frames • Swings • Trampolines • Tractors/Trailers Sandpits • Play Sand • Nursery Equipment • Rubber Tiles & much more All top quality timber Swing Frames • Slides • Play Houses • Climbing Frames • Tree Houses • Sandpits, etc.

Indoors: Infant Rocking Chairs • Tables • Desks • Dolls Houses Garages • Castles • Farms • Toy Boxes & much more

Directions: At J13 M4 take A34 towards Oxford.

• 1st left to Beedon. Follow signs to Beedon through World's End. 1st right to Hamstead Norreys. 3/4 mile on left

^'

I' 1

I

II

Full range of schedules available Qualified teachers following the nursery outcomes for learning Please contact Mrs G Simonds on (01793) 845572 (Mrs Simonds is a trained nurse ry inspector)

28

The Link Magazine • March 1999

Progress recognised at Hreod Parkway An Ofsted inspection in 1996 highlighted serious weaknesses at the school, but a recent interim inspection has acknowledged that a new management structure is tackling problems head on.

The school has made satisfacHead teacher Andrew Fleet, who arrived after the inspection has tory improvement in the proviextended the senior management sion for pupils with special educateam and the governing body is tional needs.

The report concludes that almore involved in the running of the school which now has a clear though weaknesses remain, the direction and an agenda for im- school has taken many positive steps to address them. It adds 'the provement.

The quality of teaching is j u dged new headteacher works closely to be satisfactory or better in 78% with the governing body and there of lessons. In nearly half, it is is now a common vision between judged to be good or very good, a all parties.'

Commenting on the findings, significant improvement since the 1996 inspection. However there is Andrew Fleet said, "we are pleased still variation in teaching quality with the recognition of the significant progress made on the agenda of the core subjects.

Pupil standards in well planned set by Ofsted.

"I would like to compliment the and tightly focused lessons is good.

The report highlights concerns re- staff and governors on their hard garding some teachers' understand- work and the way in which they ing of what progress to expect of have worked together to raise their pupils. Teaching, it states does standards and to set the systems in not always match pupils needs. place to assure success."

The High Sherriff of Wiltshire Lady Ruth Hawley presented the Hreod Parkway Come & Talk youth action group with £250 from Crimbeat Wiltshire to continue its peer group support work. Head Andrew Fleet, second from right with youth action coordinator Lorna Slack, front left

APPLICATIONS ARE INVITED FOR THE FULL-RANGE OF SECONDARY SUBJECTS ON AN INNOVATIVE FULLTIME SCHOOL-BASED COURSE Financial support

available for: Design Technology Information Technology Mathematics, Music Modern Foreign Languages Religious Education Science You will get full support in schools from subject specialist mentors and experienced senior teachers.

Full details in our Information Pack Enquiries: Alison Scott-Baumann Cheltenham & Gloucester College of Higher Education PO Box 220 The Park Cheltenham GL50 2QF Tel:01242 532870 Email: asbaumann@chelt.ac.uk

CHELTENHAM

GLOUCESTER College of Higher Education

Train to be a teacher in a local school Last year, Monica Yerbury-Hodgson and Fiona Thompson read in The Link of a one year Postgraduate Secondary Teaching Course run by the Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education.

Fiona says, "since the course is A year later they are both well on their way to being qualified school based, I feel more like a teachers. Monica has been at valued member of staff than a stuFarmors School in Fairford and dent. You have the opportunity to also at Commonweal in Old Town. learn about all aspects of school Fiona'sbasehasbeenHighworth life and it meant I could train loWarneford with further experience cally without having to move.

"It is very hard work but it is a at Cirencester's Deer Park School.

Forty secondary schools in rewarding course which will stand Gloucestershire and Wiltshire and me in good stead for the future."

Jill Kelly, Training Manager at beyond are involved. Every year a many trainees are employed as Bradon Forest School wrote last Newly Qualified Teachers. Math- year's article and is thrilled that it ematicians and scientists who take led to Fiona and Monica joining up a post could be in for a £5,000 the course. "Trainees come from 'Golden Hello.' varied backgrounds; I have Grange Park resident, Monica, worked with men and women from says, "the course is well-designed several nationalities, ranging in age and the school practice, which from 23 to 40 something. makes up three quarters of the "I would be happy to chat infortime, is very useful. It gives train- mally to anyone wanting basic inees a chance to learn in a control- formation on the course." led, butreal teachingenvironment, Jill can be contacted on 870729. with lots of support from staff. Itis For information on entry requirea good way to find out whether ments, funding and application you are made for the profession." forms, contact the college, see left.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.co m

The Link Magazine • March 1999 29

Headteacher committed to community involvement

Private Tuition

Marilyn Brown, Abbey Meads Community Primary School's first headteacher, knows all about starting up and managing a new school. r In 1987, she was one of the first ' • ' " "The community centre built in all subjects teachers appointed to the new ; into the Abbey Meads school Levels Windmill School in Freshbrook, presents exciting opportunities to '. ' when she returned to the profesmake it a central focus for the area."

• Key Stages 1-4 sion after having two children.

Mrs Brown said there was a great • GCSE & A Level Three years later in 1990 she bedeal of detail to be sorted out with • Special Needs came deputy head at Shaw's Brook the new governing body which is Field School, and was acting head being formed at present and hopes Call for a time. There she had responto give details of how parents can Personal Tutorials sibility for opening the second 240 contact her via The Link in due place phase, which included argucourse.

New ing with the architect, ordering teachers 01672 539368 "It feels as if I have started alalso wanted 01793 538730 equipment and appointing new ready although I don't formally staff. take up the position until after the Since 1993, Mrs Brown has been Easter holidays." head at the long established Rodbourne Cheney primary school.

I am very, very excited abo the new school at Abbey Meads,"" she told The Link in an exclusive Marilyn Brown with Rodbourne interview. "My experiences at NURSERY & PRE-PREP Cheney children, Lucy Fallon, Clarice Windmill and Brook Field have Smith, Josh Henshall Individual Care made me very positive about the partnership that needs to be cre- me how central a school is to an Individual learning at ated with parents to make their area; here parents and grandparPrior Park Preparatory School school successful for their children. ents tell me of their days when Wiltshire Criciclade, "Rodbourne Cheney has taught they attended the school. irn)

I

Reward for staff investment

0

4t

For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of scho and holiday provision 7.45am - 6.30pm)

Please contact Shelagh Hanbury B.Ed (Hons) Greendown School in Grange Park is the first in the Swindon Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons) Education Authority to receive the Investor in People Award.

To achieve the exacting standards required, all management systems TELEPHONE (01793)) 75260 0 were closely examined and senior staff interviewed to ensure that the school is providing appropriate staff support.

Headteacher Ian Matthews said the award had been in recognition of the way staff are managed and developed to achieve the school aim of ITHER 'S MORt TO GROWTH THAN GETTING TALL Rll providing the best possible education for children in the area.

Chairman of governors Andrew Basson congratulated the school's management team. "The award is an endorsement of the commitment to the development of staff as a central feature in the education of HELPS GROWTH & DEVELOPS POTENTIAL children at Greendown."

THE! TRr EXPRESS

Daphne Milner from the Wiltshire and Swindon Training and Enterprise Council presents the award to Andrew Basson, centre, with headteacher Ian Matthews and teacher and Investor in People coordinator Sally Barker

... Summer Term starts 24 April 1999

Theatre Express Performing Arts Schools & Theatre Company, has openings at its performing arts school, based at I GREENDOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL, SWINDON Our school runs on Saturdays, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm

.

Theatre Express is fun! It also helps develop: self-confidence, self-esteem, articulation, imagination, co-ordination, expression, and other important life skills

Students aged 5 to 16 years work with experienced tutors in the disciplines of Acting, Singing, & Dance

Bargain courses with incentives Swindon College launches a new programme of short courses in March. Many of them will take place at Greendown School in Grange Park and cost just £5 for four weeks. If you enrol with a friend, that person gets on the course free.

To find out more, call the Swindon College free phone info, line on 0800 731 2250.

I

I

I

If you would like your child to enjoy exciting weekends, and to have the I advantages of developing skills that will aid through life, then: I I make an appointment to see us in action!

Contact Theatre Express now for a prospectus on: Tel/Fax: 01608-676024 Or write to: Theatre Express, P. 0. Box 94, Chipping Norton D. 0., 0X7 3YL L - - — or E -mail us on: express1 @globainet.co_uk — - - J

30

The Link Magazine • March 1999

Women in view

SPRI SPED

As the culmination of their contribution to the Commission for Racial Equality's Visible Women Campaign, Swindon Racial Equality Council is running a ground-breaking conference.

The Visible Women Conference on 15 March will look at the barriers that prevent ethnic minority women achieving their potential. It also hopes to challenge and dispel stereotypes by promoting successful ethnic minority women as role models.

For more information, contact Joana Mytalas-Scanlon on Swindon 528545.

from your IoC4C West SwindojJcet cleaning prof ` nal

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01793 - 870756 ULTRA CLEAN (WILTSHIRE) Open: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 7.00pm • Sat 9.00am - 1.00pm.

A West Swindon based business is coming up to its fifth birthday and will be enhancing its popular contract maintenance and repair service by opening an appliance show room.

t We offer full preventative maintenance, annual service, parts and labour cover to entire system Compare the Blue Diamond Service

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Figuring it out: maths for women An eleven week 'Figuring It Out - Women Learning About Maths' course is designed to help students understand why women often find maths hard, discover how much they already know, and enable them to gain confidence and improve their skills.

Run by the WEA Swindon Women's Branch, Figuring it Out starts on Wednesday 21 April, 10am to 12noon at the Health Hydro, Milton Road.

For details of this and a range of other courses, call Gerry or Liz on 618233.

Successful growth for local gas service company

GAI H

Annual service carried out at the same time every year

The Well Woman Centre is holding its annual dinner at Blunsdon House Hotel on Saturday 27 March to raise funds to keep the service open.

"It will be a friendly and relaxed the result of its Lottery applicaevening," says Beryl Bowles, chair tion, expected in March.

At the moment, no other subof the centre's marketing and fundraising committee. stantial funding has been secured.

As well as a conventional raffle, Without it, the centre will have to they will be selling Easter eggs, close by the summer.

Tickets for the evening, which numbered for a raffle of health and includes a three course meal, cost leisure prizes.

The Well Woman Centre in the £25 per person. To book, call Health Hydro is still waiting for 511064.

/ 3

Now's the time to change to a better service

Call GASTECH today (01793) 873060

Gastech is run by ex-British Gas staff with experience in management, technical support, engineering and sales. The business has developed around installation of gas appliances and central heating systems, annual servicing, fault diagnosis and repair.

Two years ago the company launched the Blue Diamond Service Contract in The Link magazine distribution area. And according to director David Watts, the company has continued to grow and grow ever since.

The Blue Diamond scheme is a competitively priced and comprehensive service which covers an annual service of appliances and heating systems with the benefit of same day breakdown call out cover including parts and labour, for no additional charge.

"Blue Diamond was launched in response to a demand for a high quality and reliable maintenance and service support," said David.

"We strip down and check ap-

pliances, using the latest technology to check water flow, temperatures, gas safety and combustion efficiency. Once we have a record of the equipment, we will be able to compare year on year performance and advise customers on its condition."

There is a two tier price structure to reflect the size of systems.

Now is the time to have your heating system serviced. It has done all the hard work over the winter.

Have it serviced to achieve best performance and cost efficiency come the colder weather this autumn.

From 1 March, Gastech will open a showroom at Okus, stocking cookers, appliances, fires and surrounds. David commented, "our business has been made a success largely by advertisements in The Link. We would like to thank the readers for their custom, and invite you to drop into the showroom when we advertise it next month."

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • March 1999 31

Thanks for helping

CL Reclaimed Timber & building materials

Firefighters from Westlea would like to thank all those who donated the £1,023 collected in one day at the West Swindon Centre just before Christmas. The amount was split between the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund and the special baby care unit at PMH. Firefighters Tim Elliott and Glynn Moody present a cheque for £511.50 to special baby care unit staff, from left Karen Pinder, Nurse Manager Alyson McSherry, Lorraine Quinn, Ann Smith, Louise Butt

We buy and sell: Ply, bricks, timber, hardboard, chipboard and RSJs We also supply:

sand & gravel (in bags) For more details pop in or tel: 829715 Open: Mon - Sat, 9am - 5pm The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

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Students hear of hurricane disaster During a visit to Swindon at the end of January, Nicaraguan Ambassador Nora Campos de Lankes took part in a year 7 humanities class

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Mrs Campos de Lankes helped students understand the plight of her country, not just since Hurricane Mitch, but over the last 30 years. She told them about the 1972 earthquake, which destroyed Nicaragua's capital, Managua, killing 15,000 people.

This was followed by a devastating civil war in the 1980s, leaving50,000 dead, hundreds of thousands injured and many others displaced and facing extreme economic hardship. November's hurricane, which killed 3,000 people, has set the country's recovery back 20 to 30 years.

Esme Bennett asked what children could do to show their support. "Thousands of children have lost their homes and schools, many also have lost their parents," said the Ambassador. "The best way you can help is to become more aware of our situation, talk to others and to your parents. In practi-

cal ways, please collect pencils, books, and educational materials.

The hope for our children is to start their education again."

After the visit, Mrs Campos de Lankes, said she was impressed by the interest shown. "It is good that the students are using their lessons to study the disaster that has hit Central America. I was always aware of being patronised when I was younger and I did not want to do that to them, nor did I want them to feel guilty about anything.

But it is important for children in this country to realise how lucky they are and the chances they have in life."

The visit was arranged by the Swindon Baha'i community and Swindon Ocotal Link. SOL have raised more than £15,000 for hurricane victims in twin town Ocotal, since November.

To find out more about SOL, call Mary Shaw on 871940.

For a free quote

32

The Link Magazine • March 1999

Dave Rogers pai.cte^s- a cd Z>eeozatoz

Interior and

Upstairs downstairs at Lydiard House In days gone by Lydiard House relied on a large staff to look after the family and care for the house and gardens, writes keeper of the house, Sarah Finch-Crisp.

te -4

decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wa llpapering • Coving

• Tiling

• General Maintenance • Gardening

For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

The stairs to the servants quarters up in

the attic (not open to the public)

IMPORTANT DECISIONS REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE Buying, selling or remo rt gaging?

We give an e ff icient fully computerised service ^,r3`^ and keep you informed throughout the process

Old photographs recall some of the staff names and faces while the house offers clues of its own. Beside the fireplaces bell pulls dangle from an elaborate wire and pulley system which once connected the State rooms via a long stone flagged passageway to the servants hall.

In the State bedroom you can still see a small door disguised with wallpaper through which the housemaids could come and go discreetly, carrying logs for the fire and their buckets, mops and brooms. All the heavy household work would have been done by women.

The lower order of female servants had bedrooms in the attic, an area of the house which is not open to the public. Here the grand proportions of the family rooms give way to narrow staircases, low ceilings and the remains of typically

Lydiard House receptionist Mary Golding opens the secret door papered to blend into the wall of the State bedroom

dreary Victorian decoration chocolate brown and mustard coloured walls.

Telephone now for a quote: A servant theme for Easter holidays

CAKTEK,KEAD & DOVE S O L I C I T O R S

Commerce House, 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 617617

Fax: (01793) 511249

Displays about the Lydiard servants can be seen in our Victorian exhibition room where Daisy the maid hangs out the laundry. Every day during the Easter holidays there will be a special 'Upstairs downstairs' prize trail for children.

Children's events on 27 and 31 March, 'Invitation to the banquet' and ' Mobcaps and white gloves' need to be booked in advance. Please call 770401 for details.

Celebrate Mothering Sunday!

Join us at St Mary's G. of E. Church 14th March 1999 at 10.30am On Akers Way, near Burghley Park FAMILIES WELCOME

Woodhall Burghley Par

Park Moredon S

0 Pembroke

Park

Akers Way

For more information on services at St Mary's, contact Revd. Phillip Ansell. Tel: 701353

33

The Link Magazine • March 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Millennium Thoughts In the first of a series of articles on the millennium last month, Jo Osorio, Director of Age Concern Swindon, considered the place of older people in the next cenut ry .

Women's World Day of Prayer This year the se rv ice will be held at Toothill Church on Friday 5 March at 7.30pm.

WILLS Professionally drawn by

It has been prepared by the

Below Nigel Sharpe, vice-chairman of Swindon Youth Fellowship, looks at the teenagers of the new millennium

When children ceased starting work at 12 and had their education extended to 15, 16 and beyond, teenager' became part ture.

2. Let us stop answering the question they are not asking and begin to answer the question they are ig.

3. We must involve them in today's decision making, at all levels, as they are learning members of society today, and leaders tomorrow.

When RA Butler introduced his famous Education Act of 1944 he said 'With this extended education system a fresh group of young people will A teenager today emerge and society compared with the one must come to terms 25 years ago is more with a new evolving literate, knowledgerelationship.' able, streetwise, selfThat group of young reliant and adventurpeople was, and is ous.

Perhaps the time has now teenagers. I do seriously question with over 50 years practice, come for all uniformed organisawhether society has come to terms tions, youth clubs, churches and with that relationship. Whenever long established youth groups to there are problems concerning assess whether what they now ofteenagers, no-one seems to take fer is still relevant.

As a Boy's Brigade leader I will responsibility and everyone appears to place the blame elsewhere. ask myself these questions and I Perhaps all of us adults who now know the answer. I will have come into contact with teenagers to be prepared to make many in the new millennium could make changes in my work with teenaga special effort to do our part in ers, or retire gracefully. The teenager of the new millennium will this evolving relationship. have a vastly different attitude to1. Instead of expecting, or even wards life, and one hardly recogdemanding, respect from teenag- nisable by the teenager of today. ers, let us first give them the respect they are entitled to.

Swindon against GM foods SCAM, Swindon Campaign Against Modification of Food by Genetic Engineering, is a local coalition of groups who are campaigning for a moratorium on the importation, growing and use of GM food, writes Sue Birley of Swindon Friends of the Earth.

The recent publicity about genetically modified foods highlights that much more needs to be known about this technology before the public can judge if it is reliable and safe.

We have put together a leaflet outlining the main issues and giving details of politicians and food retailers to whom people should write voicing their concerns. Your MP and local supermarket would make a good start.

For information on buying GMfree food, contact Swindon Pulse Wholefoods, 27 Curtis Street, Swindon. Tel: 692016.

To find out more about SCAM, ca11790438.

Empty Nests Have your children recently 'flown the nest' to go to university or work in another town? Are you enjoying a newfound sense of freedom? Or are you deafened by the silence of their absence?

You may be delighting in new opportunities to do those things you've kept putting aside. Or you may feel at a loss, as if your main purpose in life has disappeared.

You may be worrying about the way in which your child is coping with his or her independence. You may even be secretly envious of their unfolding wings.

West Swindon Neighbourhood Worker Pam Pixton would like to hear from anyone who might like to be part of a social group for those whose children have recently left home. An initial meeting will explore what people want from the group - the chance to talk and share feelings, to be with others at a similar life-stage, or perhaps to do something in particular together.

You can contact Pam at the Link Centre on 465462.

women of Venezuela; the theme is God's tender touch. Refreshments will be available after the service.

All welcome, including men.

The Andrews Partnership (01793) 642245

Christian Aid talk Henrietta & Quentin Goggs will be speaking of their experience of work being done in Afghanistan through Christian Aid, on Thursday 11 March, 7.30pm, at the Queens Drive Methodist Church Coffee will be served from 7pm.

All welcome.

A professionally prepared

will can avoid delay and distress for your family

From £25.00 inc.

Home visit service from £35.00 inc.

Romania trip appeal Mission Romania is once again appealing for equipment for their aid trip to Tirgu Mures in August.

Last year, two 38 tonne lorries packed with medical supplies and clothing were sent, along with £44,000 in cash to support local development projects.

The appeal has now gone out for spectacles, toys, medical supplies, sewing machines and cash donations.

If you can help, contact Julian Leggatt on 872987 or 822491.

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integrity Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS 10.30AM AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

& PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTRE All ages of children & teens cared for

Information: Call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Tired? Stressed?

Need a lift?

Take time out for a spiritual journey into The Tranquillity Zone Held every week at the Health Hydro, Milton Road Thursdays, 7.30pm; Fridays, loam, Ipm and 7.30pm.

Organised by the Swindon Band'f Community. Entry is free Call now on 01793 873684

BC The person who changed AD History is changing peoples lives Today

^c vange/^.

O0

-

Worsley Road a'0 ^

y

mmm Gn

m

m

m=

building with people

Come and join us Sunday at 10am & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ri ng: 873050 or call at the Church office Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

4OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw-10:30amRevdAndrewHethenngton: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish)

y _ ^ O

y

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w

Westlea Church -10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

34

The Link Maaazine • March 1999

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dressability is an innovative new service for people who are disabled and/or elderly and are finding clothes a problem There are three ways in which what becomes a uniform of jog- that are so attractive that they apthe scheme can help: through cloth- ging clothes, unable to reclaim self- pear to be a design statement. A ing adaptation, with custom-made respect through what they wear. similarly absorbent cravat might "Ultimately, if you can't dress be an option. items and with up-to-date inforFor more information or to aryourself, you stay in bed,"says mation. range a home visit, call Sian Barry Ordinary clothes can often be clothing advisor Sian Barry. dressability's chairman, Tim on 01225 442646. altered to make life easier. For someone who finds using their Kilminster, right, is in a wheelchair • Sponsors are needed to ensure hands difficult, a smart shirt can as a result of MS. As a former dressability continues beyond its become wearable again with some personnel manager for the House pilot phase. If you can help, call velcro and a little ingenuity. A of Fraser, he likes to be smart and Sian Barry on the number above. regimental tie can be adapted to stressed how important clothes can be to social inclusion. "I've a right clip on easily.

Many disabled people end up in to dress up like anybody else. My self-image has improved dramatically because of the clothes HOUSEKEEPING dressability has adapted for me.

It's about dignity. I feel on equal terms with others around me."

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Helping left handers A new video has been released to help parents and teachers solve the special problems encountered by left-handed children.

It costs £13.95 plus £2 p&p and is available from 'Anything LeftHanded', 14 Norfolk Avenue, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 2SE. Tel: 01202 484013.

PAINTER & DECORATOR For a high standard of work References available

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NEW FOR 1999 MONKEY MAYHEM'S CHILDREN'S PARTY SUPPLIES You can now order from our new full colour catalogue: disposable tableware with matching invites, lootbags and fillers, badges, banners, food boxes, balloons and gifts.

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The Link Maqazine • March 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Social inclusion threatened by social services funding crisis Local communities across Swindon were thrown into turmoil at the end of January by news of the likely closure of one of the three family centres in the town, following a massive £1.9million reduction in the Social Services budget.

This aroused an unprecedented Mark Thomas, West Swindon strength of feeling from those corn- Family & Community Project's Comunities affected. Members at the ordinator, said, "I see the family Walcot Centre, the Welcome Cen- centres, along with Homestart, as tre and West Swindon Family and a core ring around social services.

Community Project were devas- If they cut us, it will add to their workload. People's need will intated, many sobbing in anguish.

A demonstration by the Walcot crease because they will have to be Centre brought rush hour traffic more desperate if they are to acon Queens Drive to a standstill to cess services."

Although the mood is more opdraw attention to the issue. In little morethantwoweeks,ajointly timistic following the recommenorganised petition attracted over dations of the Social Services Com2,000 signatures. mittee on 11 February, the family The Borough is currently work- centres will continue campaigning.

On 23 February (after The Link ing towards a 'Social Inclusion Policy.' Family centres have for had gone to press) Swindon Counyears been working in ways that cil's Policy and Resources Cornare both inclusive and empower- mittee will decide whether to make ing, issues much talked about by extra fundsavailabletoSocialServthe present Government in the run ices so that family centres can remain open. up to the last election.

Lottery grant helps couples avoid messy divorces Life is to be made easier for couples in the Swindon area struggling through divorces or separations, thanks to a £250,000 lottery grant won by charity National Family Mediation.

The two-year grant will boost the level of service available at the Family Mediation Service which helps divorcing couples come to amicable arrangements over their children, property and finances.

Service Manager, Wendy Hall, right, explains, "the money will enable us to make family mediation more accessible. It will also ensure people receive a better service, thanks to improved training and support for our staff.

"The aim will be to offer more, and better, support to couples and their children at what is an extremely

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traumatic time in their lives."

The grant comes as the local service is preparing for the implementation of the new Family Law Act, due to come into force in 2000.

This will make face-to face family mediation more widely available, as an alternative to confrontation between the parties' solicitors.

The Swindon Family Mediation Service can be contacted on 527285.

35

Infills Nail wrap Nail art from Airbrushing Nail piercing

O Headache checks

1£1.'00 £18.00 £ 5.00 £15.00 £ 6.00

Manicures

& Migraine vallabl 0 Sciatica 0 Sports Injury 0 Whiplash You should consider consulting a Chiropractor SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C.

Standard

ca#Weacl'^ oar (01793) 852829

Also available - waxing, manicures, pedi-

£10.00

Deluxe masque £14.00 Parrafin wax £15.00

cures, lash & brow tinting, ear piercing, etc.

(pedicures also available)

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Tel: 01793 702909 Mobile: 07887 510409

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic Shaw Village Centre

Tel: (01793) 887801 Member of the British Chiropractic Association

36

SERVICE SECTOR APPLIANCE REPAIRS

A

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ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES • Business Start Up E • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax Short & long term assistance and projects

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Washing Machines

Tumble Driers Twin Tubs, etc.

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

Free Initial meeting

COMPUTER

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and upgrades The Andrews Partnership Tel: (01793) 642245

GK DECORATORS Tel: 01793 701394 Mobile: 0777 5894563 I nterior & exterior

painting and decorating Ceramic tiling

Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too

LPG & Natural • Boilers

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Free estimates Call Tony, the Odd job Man on 01793-886022

SUNBED HIRE Deb's Sunbeds Home

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The Link Magazine • March 1999

Letters to The Link CARPET CLEANING GARY CURTIS CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING 0

Furniture moved and replaced on protective pads

0 Trained, professional, fully insured local operator O Satisfaction guaranteed

0 Stain removal treatment Also pressure cleaning of walls and patios Car & caravan valeting Special deals for the New Year

Tel: 01793 700700 or 751061 24hrs answerphone

DRIVER TRAINING T R A N S K O S

See page 3for address

Right of reply From Mrs S Grouvel, address unknown

(With reference to 'Neighbours from hell' article last month which reported the appearance in an ITV documentary of the Grouvel family who were evicted from their Toothill home.)

Having acquired a copy of the February Link, there seems to be a lot of things which are wrong. There weren't nine children when evicted, there were two. No alleyway was set alight and the house was not left like a bombsite with appliances hanging off the wall.

In fact the house was painted in every room before leaving. The garden was cleared of rubbish, my son took it to the local tip.

My marriage broke up owing to stress and upset over this. I visited my friends in the area after my husband had left the house and I saw the house and garden. My friends had seen local children and adults dumping their rubbish in the back of no. 4 Deerhurst.

My husband and I have done a lot of work for Toothill community.

We still visit friends in the area and will continue to do so.

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37

School friend contacts From Mike Drinkwater in Basel, Switzerland

From Alison Smythe (nee Ball)

Ridgeway School, 1976 - 1982 I am keen to keep in contact with Commonweal School, 1955 - 60 I am interested in a Year 2000 re- anybody who remembers me. vival and get-together of the Old I'm now married with two young Commonwealians Association sons who keep me very busy.

I trained as a nursery nurse after (last held in the 60s).

In addition if there are any read- leaving school and worked as a ers who would like to communi- nanny for almost 10 years before cate - drop me a mail please. I spending 4 years in the United would love to know what became Arab Emirates with my husband's of the classes of joiners in 1955. job. smythe@ssmythe.freeserve.co.uk mikedrinkwater@hotmail.com

PROPERTY SERVICES HOME PRIDE ROPERTY SERVICES • Carpent ry • Plumbing • Electrical • Gardens • Kitchen installations • Repairs and maintenance

CASUAL MUSEUMS

ATTENDANTS Rate of pay: £4.57 per hour.

Swindon Museums require Casual sta ff to provide holiday and sickness cover at Lydiard House.

Duties involve Reception and shop duties, cleaning and general security of the buildings and collections.

The post would suit someone who is flexible and can respond at short notice to requests to work. The postholder is likely to work regularly at Lydiard House, but must be prepared

to work at other sites if required.

Closing date: 11.3.99.

Interview date: 19.3.99.

Application forms and further details available from Premier House, Station Road, Swindon SN1 ITZ. Tel: 01793 466431 (24hour answering service).

Minicom for deaf users (01793) 436659.

Please note that we cannot accept CVs. We are actively working towards equality of opportunity and ` k ASo,,^ welcome applications from .0% any individual. ^vo

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38

The Link Maqazine • March 1999 JUST THE JOB

Seauty 7hezaptj

Domestic Services Agency requires Domestic Cleaners & lroners Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112

in 2Uest Swindon Decleor trained Manicures, pedicures, facials, eyelash tinting Call Helen on

Play the Piano earn to Sing' Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

• Doors & windows supplied and fitted • Wardrobes

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• For a friendly, helpful service, call J Martin 1 Alnwick, Toothill

C L3I For Sale Upright bicycle, suit older man, offers.

Tel: 770415 (eves) Girls bike, age 8- 10, £25. Boys bike age 8 - 10, £25. Both exc cond. Tel: 873500 Ladies bike, small wheels, £15. Electric fire, tile surround, £25 ono. Tel: 486199 Gents 10-speed racing bike, reasonable condition, needs new front tyre, hence price of £45. Tel: 723649 Britax 0-9 months car seat, as new, £15. Playskool Sleepytime Seranade boxed, £15. Tippee Toes bouncy seat, boxed, £12. Tel: 700591 Silver Cross pushchair with raincover, sun canopy, cosytoes, swivel wheels, tray, good cond, £40. Pushchair with hood, 3 position lie back, £30. Tel: 0958 483114 Baby walker, Britax, £6. Double raincover, as new, side by side, £10.

Tel: 0958 483114 Beebop tandem pushchair with hood

and raincover, blue and green tartan, exc cond, £80. Tel: 700952 Britax easy fold 2 in 1 pram/pushchair with changing bag, exc cond, £40.

Large selection of second handbooks for adults and children. Tel: 872869 V-Tech babywalker vgc, £20. Little Tike rocking horse £18. Tel: 875584 Collection of 30 Polly Pocket items including clock and small palace, £45 the lot, or will split. Tel: 871779 Mothercare pram/pushchair, rain cover, cosytoes, green & white, swivel wheels, £45. Tomy 2000 baby monitor, as new, £25. Tel: 870151 Duck baby bouncer, as new, £17. Tel: 870593

Painter & Decorator

• Porches, • All carpentry work undertaken

Specialist Artexing

Tel: 725791

Tel: (01793) 791388

30 years experience

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For Sale Child's waterproof lined jacket with integral hood, navy/wine, age 5-7 yrs, vgc, £5. Pink Forever Friends wellies, size 11, £1.50. Tel: 872607 after 6pm Girls grey pinafore school dress, age 6-7 and 7-8. Green school cardigan, age 5-6, white short sleeve blouses, age 5-6. £1.50 each. Tel: 872607 Bridesmaid dress for 7 to 8 yr old, lilac & cream floral pattern with headband, cost £120, accept £50 ono, very pretty. Tel: 702554 Scout leader's trousers, waist 34", incl belt, £12.50. Tel: 529476 Scout uniform, shirt 13" neck, trousers waist 26", incl belt, £13. Tel: 529476 Ice skates, Tour XL25, size 7, vgc, £25 ono. Inliners hockey gloves, Franklin hockey elbow pads, £10. Tel: 871172 Football boots, Puma Shadow, size 9, gd cond, £15. Caterpillar boots, black, size 7.5, gd cond, £23. Tel: 740984 Basketball boots, Converse, size 10 black, worn once, £20. Tel: 524010 Skis, 170cm, Salomon 226, bindings, sticks and ski bag; boots, English 4-5, together, or separate, offers, need the space, little used. Tel: 879758 (eves) Roller boots, mens size 9 , £5 or offers. Tel: 529476 Bodysoft sun bed, 6 x 1.60m tubes, electric timer with auto cut-off, variable height adjustment, on casters, stores upright, one pair goggles. Tel: 881030 Tabletop snooker table, full set of balls, a triangle, one cue & scoring board, £30. Tel: 529476

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads.

Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are

Name & Address (not for publication)

Ll Tick if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web site

For Sale

For Sale

Teak effect smoked glass fronted hi-fi cabinet, W: 48, D: 40, H: 92, £30. Teak effect smoked glass fronted video cabinet, W: 77, D: 41, H: 54, with drawer, £25. Tel: 723649 Waterbed, size Eft x 7ft, gorgeous colonial-style headboard with shelves and frosted glass mirror, 6 drawers under hard frame, must be seen, incl set of sheets. Would cost over £1,200 new, in exc cond, bargain at £600. Tel: 873594.

Teak dining table, 6 chairs, cupboard/ display unit, Technics hi-fi system, tape deck, turntable, amp, radio, large & small cabinets, offers, must sell quickly.

Tel: 486671 G Plan 3 tier teak tea trolley, exc cond, £75. Tel: 870850 As new light green dralon single headboard, £15 ono. Tel: 703635 Meredew, teak unit with lights, drinks cabinet, glass cupboard, drawers etc, exc cond, 6'5"x 55", £60 ono. Tel: 881023 Mahogany wall unit, as new, 6ft, glass display & drinks cabinet, 4 cupboards, 2yrs old, £480. Tel: 875517 Teak cocktail & display cabinet, buyer collects, £30. Brass lampstand & shade, £10. JVC 20" TV, £40. Tel: 872869 Pine double bed with mattress, only £60. Tel: 877454 Towel rail, pine, exc cond, £5. Gas poker, £5. Turquoise curtains, £10.

Electric fire, £20. Tel: 722158 Teak continental headboard, mink, complete with side lights and drawers, £45. Free standing convector heater with variable thermostat control, £25.

Tel: 876384 4' 6" headboard, brown dralon, gd cond, £3. 2 parrot cages, open to offers. Tel: 873500 2' 6" headboard, beige dralon, gd cond, £2. 2'6" single bed with storage cupboards, exc cond, £15. Tel: 873500 Table lamp with shade, & three other lamp shades, £10 the lot. Tel: 703114 Net curtain, Nottingham Jardiniere, white, still in packet, 150" wide, 54" deep, £8. Tel: 703114 Velvet curtains fully lined, dusky pink, one pair patio, 84" d, one pair 90" w, 54" d, one single curtain, 90" w 54" d, £50 the lot, will split. Tel: 703114 Brown single drainer sink, vgc, £15.

TV & video cabinet, teak effect, glass doors, £10. Tel: 873500 Two MFI pine high back stools, £18 each. Pine computer desk, 2 tops, 30" wide, £12. Built in MFI kitchen bin, £5.

Tel: 725822

Stainless steel leisure sink, gd cond, £25. Fire guard, £15. Mother Care fold up stroller and cover, £20. Tel: 882704 Fridge, £30. Hotpoint automatic w/ machine, £45. Three drawer bedside chest, £15. Tel: 871426 Floral Chesterfield settee & armchair, £50. Wicker chair, £8. Tel: 876195 Curtains, 6' wide, 4' drop, green silver swirls, matching 3' bed throwover, made by Gilberts, £25. Tel: 692975 Baumatic EL 2000 fan oven, gas hob & mounting, unused, cost £300, sell for £150 ono. Tel: 703635 Auto washing machine, full working order, one small problem, hence, £35, no offers. Tel: 702186 Calor heater, bottle with gas, 3 burners, £40. Vax cleaner, nearly new, £80.

Tel: 721741 Metal detector deluxe, only used twice, still boxed, £65. Large 2 seater settee, pink/grey colour vgc, G plan, £55. Tel: 881750 Canon printer BJC 210 boxed, as new, unused, colour cartridge, under warranty, £50. Tel: 882868 Word processor Smith Corona PWP2100 portable with built in disk drive & printer, complete with box & instructions, £40 ono. Tel: 644264 Apple Macintosh Performa 6200, 24mb RAM, 1.2 Gb hard disc, colour printer, monitor, keyboard, mouse, software & manuals, £550. Tel: 644765 Panasonic video recorder Nicam stereo, boxed, vgc, can be seen working, £95. Tel: 882868 VCR front loader, slim design, remote control, vgc, Panasonic. Tel: 421665 Clarion car radio/cassette, as new, £30 ono. Early Learning Centre, single swing frame, gd cond, £10. Portable electric typewriter, £30. Tel: 873460 Dog guard & tail gate custom made for Peogot 405 estate, cost new £240, vgc, £120. Tel: 771936 Yamaha RSX100, tax & MOT, gwo, £500. Tel: 878677, 7pm - 10pm

Wanted Pine kitchen table & chairs. Tel: 870593 Head board, double, black wrought iron effect or wooden. Tel: 728440 Double bed, wrought iron with or without mattress. Tel: 541017

Services 50p per word, cheques with advert, to West Swindon Publications

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • March 1999

Schools plan Millennium

RYANS

Shakespeare spectacular After the huge success of the West Swindon school's Shakespeare Festival, an even bigger Bardic project is being put together for Spring 2000 which will involve over 1,000 children.

Since September last year, seven hundred pupils from seven West Swindon primary schools and year 7 students at Greendown commu-

Children from Westlea and Greendown have performed the play in full costume; Tregoze

parents and others to help in

39

FURNITURE & GIFTWARE

"`"

School will be taking to the stage the pro3^a: in March. All 700 children have ductions."

Shakespeare's The Tempest as part watched a Salisbury Playhouse/ He was J of the national year of reading.

Sixth Sense Theatre Company pro- also deNational Power has sponsored duction. Elizabethan peddlar Jack lighted to a range of activities to enhance the Greene visited each school to talk announce learning experience. about life and times in olden days. that naAnd local teachers attended a tionally acworkshop with world-famous claimed Shakespeare authority Dr Rex Royal Shakespeare Company acGibson on how to bring Shake- tor David Calder has agreed to be speare alive in the classroom. the patron of the festival.

Festival coordinator Tim Noble "It is tremendous that David is from Greendown School is now supporting what we are doing in aiming for a massive millennium Swindon. He has been very imrs celebration of the Bard, whose fic- pressed with how local teachers tional life is the subject of the cur- have been communicating Shakerent hit fi lm 'Shakespeare in Love.' speare's message in an exciting "The English Shakespeare Com- way." pany with Sarah Gordon of ButThe festival organisers are now tonhole Theatre have agreed to be appealing to business at a local resident in West Swindon from and national level for financial January to March 2000 to help us backing for what they believe is Children from achieve a world first," he said. nationally important work.

Salt Way Schoo .

"All 37 year 6 classes and GreenThey need £50,000 to achieve who tehad the.914ury down year 7 - over 1,000 pupils - the aim of involving 1,000 children ,Phtỳhouse/Sixth Sense will perform a 20 minute version in 37 Shakespeare plays next year.

Theatre Company produ of each of Shakespeare's play in To find out more, call Tim Noble The Tempest on 27March. And we want to involve on (01793) 874224. nity school have been studying

Are you looking for something a little different or unusual?

Ryans stock a constantly changing selection of Oriental, Ethnic an d British furniture and gifts

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