November 1988 Swindon Link

west Swindon'5

Mcigcizine

*EXTRA, EXTRA * OFFER TO LINK READERS CONTINUES Free Salter weighing scales worth £9 with every purchase over £50 (1 only per person).

Whether you buy a bed for same day delivery, or a dining table, a desk or chest of drawers, we will give a free set of scales. But only if you say the magic words The Link'.

THE

67

LINA

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Circulation 10,000

Est.1 978

Have Your Say at the Link Centre

17-20 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT TEL: 853887

No. 80 November 1988

Fundraising Campaign gets Liftoff Local company staff raise £2,100

The Link Centre is three years old and Thamesdown Council is eager to find out what The campaign to raise up to £15,000 for a lift children with a disability will now have a users think of it. They are organising a Open at Greendown Community School has suc- choice of secondary school."

Since April, fundraising events had raised Forum on Monday 21st November at ceeded in achieving its target in nine months 730p.m. West Swindon people are espe- with massive help from community groups, over £4,000. A further £2,100 was added at an local companies and finally, Wiltshire auction on 13th October attended by over 150 cially invited to attend staff at PHH International, Centre co-ordinator John Fisher is looking County Council.

The news that Wiltshire based at Windmill Hill forward to the forum. "I hope as many Business Park. On offer people as possible will come along and have County Council will put up were books from Readers their say. Its important we get close to our £7,000 towards the total cost customers to ensure that our service is the of installing the lift has made Digest, complimentary tickets to the Wyvern, Oaservice that they want." the Jack family of Westlea sis and Link Centre, items See page 13 for more details of the forum. extremely happy. Eleven -West Swindon's Tennis Centre on the Delta year old Kerrie, who has been donated by staff, and a tour Business Park was topped out on Monday 24th at Greendown since Septemof the Houses of Parliament October by the Mayor of Thamesdown Council- ber, suffers from a rare nervand lunch with Swindon lor Jim Cordon, at a ceremony attended by Civic M.P. Simon Coombs. dignatories and representatives from the Lawn ous condition which makes "We're just overTennis Association and the Taylor-Woodrow control of her limbs increasingly difficult. whelmed," commented Company.

Karen Jack. "People have "We were so surprised been so generous with their when county councillor Alan time and money. The way Winmill rang us with the great news," said campaign PHH have backed our camFire Safety Week takes place from 24th to organiser David Jack. "Its paign is just wonderful."

29th October and the West Swindon Centre been hard work by lots ofKaren,Kerrie and David Jack The special lift for disare backing it in a big way. people including the Friends of Westlea abled people is on order and it is hoped that School children in the area are entering a School, the staff at PHH and others. And the installation will take place early in the new colouring competition, first prize is a heli- slog of raising the remainder of the money year. copter ride to deliver Santa to his West Swin- was daunting. *Video show in aid of the Trust Fund for don grotto on 30th November.

"It was great to hear that the County are Children with Disabilities. See page 7 for On 28th and 29th October fireman from the making a major contribution after such a details.

Wiltshire Fire Brigade will meet children and negative reaction some months ago. I must • There is a DAZZLE Fashion Show in aid of parents with their life size mascot Wele- add that their architects have been very help- the Vivienne Cronin turbo powered chair on phant. There will be a fire appliance parked ful.

28th October. Details on page 6. at the centre unless it is in use elsewhere.

"Its tremendous that all West Swindon

Welephant at W. Swindon Centre

Local Fireworks Displays Sat. 29th October, (Fri. 4th November 6.00p.m.

7.30p.m.

West Swindon's Annual Ridgeway Field, Community Bonfire with Wroughton Professional Fireworks.

Sat. 5th November 6.00p.m.

Tickets £1 adults; 50p children.

Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive

GWR Roadshow, pigroast, refreshments, childrens rides and entertainment.

(Contributions of fireworks welcomed)

Family Bonfire & Professional Fireworks at Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall, Lydiard Millicent.

Refreshments.

Live entertainment from Bardiche'

Proceeds to the Purton & Lydiard Cub Scouts

Proceeds to The Ridgeway School & Wroughton Junior School

FREE

Tuesday 8th November 7p.m.

Grand Aerial Firework Display by the Lakes at the West Swindon Centre Free Please do not bring fireworks or pets.

,1

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3

FRONT PIECE

Anniversary coming up Next month The Link magazine will be 10 years old.

Even if we say it ourselves, this is a remarkable achievement for a publication which started life as an eight page local newsletter.

To celebrate its decade of existance, we are planning a special edition recognising the major contribution of The Link to the creation of the new community in West Swindon.

To be part of December's celebration edition, advertisers, community groups and others should contact Jacky Pearce or Christine Brodie on the numbers given on this page.

THE

LINK )2ii, /t-

Tizc%

k /e Sid Published by West Swindon Publications.

13, Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon.

Tel: (0793) 872282 Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Advertising Sales: Jackey Pearce Tel: (0793) 771534 or Christine Brodie Tel: (0793) 814485 Typesetting, Design & Layout by IMacOgle Printed by Western Webb, Bristol.

Published on the Wednesday closest to the first of the month. Copy date: 12th of the preceding month.

"The Link was first published In December 1978 as a magazine aimed exclusively at the West Swindon community. it Is completely independent of the Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984."

Contents 3 Front Piece 4 ToothIll 5 Freshbrook & Grange Park 6 Westlea 7 Shaw 8 At your Library 10 For Women 12 Recreation 14 Arts Scene 15 Day In The Life 16 Education Matters 18 Famillies & Under 59 19 News and Views 20 21 Home & Garden 22 End Pieces 23 The Reference Page

A Thank You from David, Karen and Kerrie Jack of Westlea A big thank you to all the people who have helped us in our task of raising money to have a lift installed at Greendown School.

The generosity of everyone has been incredible, not only in monetary donations, but also in the giving up of their much valued spare time. An extra special thank you to Neil Griffiths, the headteacher of Westlea School, and the staff of P.H.H. Ltd. of Windmill Hill, West Swindon.

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Christine Phillips Many people in Freshbrook were shocked by the sudden and tragic death of Chris Phillips in hospital in October at the age of 29.

As a mother of three children to be seen daily in the Freshbrook School playground, Chris was well known as a lively, friendly person who was active in several groups in the community.

She was especially involved with the West Swindon Family Project and helped the Sunday pensioners lunch club get off the ground three years ago. She was also a dinner lady at Freshbrook School and for the last year, she was an assistant supervisor at the community centre playgroup.

Over one hundred relations and friends attended a funeral service at All Saints Church Lydiard Millicent onl9th October conducted by the Reverend Ian Hand scomb, Baptist Minister with the West Swindon Church team.

Chris will be greatly missed by her husband John and her three children Rebecca, Nichola and Ben.

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4

TOOTHILL Bar members get together Toothill looses helper

Toothill's lunch club could close down unless somebody comes forward to organise it.

The club provides a hot midday meal for up to 50 pensioners on Wednesdays at Toothill Community Centre. Over the last two years it has been organised by Euphemia "Jock" Phillips, but for the last six months she has been travelling from Stroud.

She has also run the youth room in the centre on three evenings a week and the strain of the commitment is becoming a burden upon her.

"Jock has done a wonderful job for Toothill people and we're keen to keep her good work going," said community centre

chairperson June Lawton. "A social services grant makes it possible for the organiser to be paid and there is a team of helpers to make sure the pensioners get a good lunch."

The teenagers who use the youth room appreciate what Jock has done. "She's has helped the people of Toothill and looked after us," said Mark Hull.

"Jock's done a lot for us kids," said club regular Nicky Sullivan.

"She's always been ready to help us. I'll remember her for giving me a surprise eighteenth birthday party.

Anybody who could organise

oan and Bill Reid at their community wedding reception with centre chairperson June Lawton

An evening reception was put the lunch club should contact Romance was in the September the community centre on air at Toothill Community on by members of the club arCentre when two retired mem- ranged by June Owen and centre 614492.

Jock Phillips with some of the regulars at Toothill Communty Centre's youth room

bers of the bar club decided to get married. And after a whirlwind courtship of six weeks, Joan Hillard and Bill Reid tied the knot for the second time around on 7th October at Swindon Registry Office.

"We had sort of known each other for two years, but it took her by surprise when I asked her," said Bill.

Joan agreed that she was taken aback. "I was surprised but it didn't last long; he's a fine gentleman."

Toothill Cubs need adult help Elaine Benson writes:

RALPH PALMER PHARMACY Ralph Palmer, M.P.S., Dispensing Chemist 3, Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon—Fri. 9a.m. - 1p.m.; 2p.m. —6p.m.

Sat. 9a.m. - 12 noon Telephone: 512063

West Swindon's annual bonfire night party at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive

Friday 4th November at 6p.m.

"A Community Event for the whole family" Quality Fireworks, Sparklers for the children, Refreshments, Live entertainment at Toothill Youth club from Bardiche.

If Get ready for Bonfire night at A Guy Making Workshop on Monday 31st October, 11a.m. onwards in the Toothill Youth Club building, Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive.

Anybody of any age can come and make Guys for burning with Mel Jones of the Joliffe Studio, Swindon's community effigy specialist

Hello, I'm Akela of theist Toothill (Actaeon) Cub Scout Pack which meets at Toothill Church on Thursday evenings between 6p.m. and 730p.m.

We are a pack of up to 24 boys and we are urgently in need of an assistant to help us each week.

At the moment I run the pack on my own, but this is not an ideal situation and cannot continue. If you can spare a couple of hours each week, please contact me on Swindon 22168 any evening. I look forward to hearing from you.

chairperson June Lawton.

Sunday Bingo Its eyes down every Sunday evening at Toothill Community

Centre Bingo.

They closed down for a few weeks in September as there was nobody to run the sessions.

However, after an appeal in The Link, a caller was found in John Hogton from Westlea, and club members decided to take turns in running things on the night.

Bingo takes place between 7.30p.m. and 9.30p.m. and costs 20p for entrance and 30p a book, plus 'lOp for four flyers. There is a break for refreshments including soft drinks, tea and hot dogs.

Between 25 and 50 people attend and there is room for more.

All the takings during the session are paid out in prizes.

"I came along for something to do on a Sunday and didn't know a soul at first," said John Hogton.

"Now I know everybody; its a good evening out."

Club member Mary Brookes agreed. "There's a nice, friendly atmosphere here. We're the only evening Bingo session in the area; newcomers will enjoy it."

Bingo fans, 1. to r., June Wainwright, John Hogton, Murial Griffin, Phyllis Bakaj

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK GRANGE PARK Children help other children

5

NEEDS A BIGGER PRIMARY SCHOOL

Eileen Sawyer, experienced teacher a mother of a one year old from Grange Park, says Wiltshire County Council should reconsider its plans and calls for action by parents to persuade them.

All present and future parents in Grange Park with children of primary school age should know now that the proposed new primary school for this area will be too small to take all Grange Park children adequately.

Yet another overcrowded small school, on a small site, littered with mobile classrooms will appear in West Swindon.

This school is due to open in 1990 on a site off Hay Lane and Grange Park Way, near the entrance to Lydiard Park.

Grange Park Primary School is planned to accommodate 239 children in 7 classrooms. From my research, helped by Freshbrook Councillor Bob Pixton, it is certain that Grange Park needs a larger school. A realistic size would be a school of 10 classrooms accommodating at least 300 children. A school the same size as Westlea Primary School is needed.

How do we know this? There are approximately 2,000 houses in Grange Park. The type of housing will always attract young and growing families.

The birthrate in West Swindon at present is close to being double the national average birth rate.

Even on just national average figures the proposed school size could easily have a shortfall of at least 60 places each year.

Wiltshire County Council would try to accommodate extra children in the usual way by putting mobile classrooms on an already small site.

Expanding small schools has many problems. As a former primary school teacher, and as a parent, I do realise how the quality of education suffers in an overcrowded school and in mobile classrooms.

Mobiles on a small site can eventually take up play/sport areas. Playgrounds become overcrowded by overlarge intakes of children. The assembly hail and dining areas become too small to cope, lunches end up being eaten in classrooms.

Above all, mobile classrooms never have all the facilities and spaces that a good modern primary classroom should have.

Good primary school teaching

Freshbrook Community Centre Playgroup held a harvest gathering 5th October and following entertainment for parents by the children, donated items were auctioned.

The total, along with the proceeds of a raffle, came to ÂŁ130.

On 14th October the children and staff presented a cheque to Mollie Tanner, Appeals Director for the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children in the Thamesdown area, (pictured above)

"We all thought our children could help other children in need," said joint playgroup supervisor Brenda Grove.

Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm; 2.l5pm - 7pm Times: Saturday 9am - 12.30pm

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and learning become far more difficult in cramped conditions.

Grange Park children have only one precious chance to be educated. They need a school which is a realistic and adequate size for the growing population of the present and future. We await news from County Hall about the new school. We believe land is still available for purchase on the proposed site.

What can parents in Grange

A

Park do?

Previous parental action pressured the County Council to move the site of the proposed school from the original, unsafe site, off Hook Road. Parents need to express their views again.

Could you volunteer to collect names on a petition? We would very much appreciate your help to fight for a better school now: We need a team of volunteers.

Please contact me on 873018 for details. We need your help.

l

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Unit 7 Templars Way Industrial Estate, Marlborough Rd., Wootton Bassett, Wilts. SN4 7EJ. Telephone: (0793) 854771 (Eve. 850514)

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Fashion So many people are rallying around acShow for cording to Vivienne's mother Anita Cronin Vivienne of Hopton Close.

A dazzling charity fashion show will take place on Friday 28th October in aid of The Vivienne Cronin Wheelchair Fund at Westlea School.

The show is being organised

by DAZZLE, the West Swindon based party plan organisers who are building a good reputation in high quality designer clothes for children and adults.

All proceeds from the fashion show will be put towards buying another powered chair for Vivienne Cronin who lives in The 1st Westlea Brownies Activity Day at the Link Centre on 15th October Freshbrook and is a pupil at Weswas also afarewell party for Brown Owl Carolyn Buckingham. The group tlea School. is in desperate need of a replacement. Prospective Brownie leaders are asked Vivienne, who will be six in to drop into Westlea School on any Tuesday from 5.45p.m.

February, suffers from brittle and can only move around CRAFT FAYRE CHRISTMAS BAZAAR bones in reasonable safety in a chair.

Shaw Ridge School, St. Peters' Roman She has nearly grown out of her present mobile chair and is in Ridge Green Catholic Church, desperate need of one that will Sat. 12th November Westlea give her greater mobility and will 1.30p.m. 330p.m.

Sat.26th November allow her to keep up with classAd: 20p; children free 2p.m- 5p.m. mates.

Unfortunately a new chair costs £5,500, an enormous sum

Brownies say farewell to Brown Owl

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"People are being very helpful and generous. Roussell Laboratories held a dinner and dance for us a couple of weeks ago which was wonderful. And the Dazzle show will take us on to our immediate target of £2,000.

"I'm hoping that the Variety Club of Great Britain will consider helping with the rest. We would like to give Vivienne a great birthday present."

Vivienne's new 'turbo powered chair' will be able to take her from nought to four miles an hour in 4 seconds. And although she is in danger of breaking a bone at any time, even when turning over in bed, she will still have to be comprehensively insured when using her chair.

The DAZZLE Fashion Show & Party takes place on 28th October at 730p.m. at Westlea School. Tickets £1.

50-50 Sale 23rd November, 10a.m. - Noon at Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre, Ridge Green.

Sale of children's toys & clothes In aid of Shaw Ridge Parent & Toddlers and Upper Shaw Playgroup

Mansfield Begbie Associates

Mortgage and Insurance Services Pensions and Tax Planning School Fees Planning In view of the recent mortgage rate increases, we may be able to help your financial situation as we have access to special rates for mortgages and re-mortgages with various lenders, e.g. low start schemes from 9.9%, with income multiples up to three times joint or three and half times single income.

Substantial monthly savings can be obtained, subject to status.

For free quotations, help and advice, please ring Mr. M.J. Rees, Member of the L.I.A., on Swindon 873369 Appointed Representative of Cornhili Insurance Group, member of Lci utn

Res. Assoc. to take action The Shaw Residents' Association meeting on 13th October considered the many comments made by people when they visited the annual exhibition in September.

These included: • the lack of play areas in Nine Elms; *Speeding vehicles on Cartwright Drive and the dangers to pedestrians, particularly those crossing to Brookfield School; • the lack of direction signs on footpaths that meander through the estate; • access to Salt Way school through a building site; • the poor condition of Nine Elms Lane caused by building works.

The Association is referring all the points made by residents to Thamesdown Borough Council and a speedy response is hoped for.

The next meeting of the Shaw Residents' Association will take place on Tuesdayl5th November, 7.45p.m. in Shaw Church, Nine Elms Lane. Any residents with problems or concerns about the area are invited to attend.

Local Disabled Children to benefit from video show A free charity video show aimed at summers and food fanatics alike is being organised by local Cambridge Diet counsellor Jan Jandrell. The voluntary donations from the showing will be put to the West Swindon Fund for Disabled Children.

The video features Sue Kreitzmann who talks about her revolutionary cooking methods as set down in her new book 'Cambridge Slim Cuisine.'

She decribes herself as a 'foodie,' but having lost over five stones, she set out to research and pass on how to produce succulent meals with the least number of calories. For dieters and those who want to adopt a way of eating that is healthy, nutritionally sound and not outrageous in its suggestions, Sue Kreitzman's innovative approach is well worth considering.

The free video show featuring Sue Kreitzman's recipes takes place on Tuesday 15th November, at 7.30p.m., in the Community Suite of the Link Centre.

Copies of her book at £6.95 will be available on the evening or from Jan Jandrell on 872693.

SHAW Free Goody Bag Interest from at Toothill's dentist Slimming World

There is now a good chance that a Dentist will set up a practice at Shaw Village Centre after all.

The September edition of The Link reported the lack of interest from Dentists in available space at Shaw Village Centre. But since then, a practioner has entered into lease negotiations for a first floor unit.

"I think there is a good chance that a Dentist will set up a practice at Shaw, although there are a few legal matters to be sorted out," said Colin Stribling for Property Consultants Hinton Newport.

He also said that the new commercial development being built at present will be ready by the end of January 1989. "The units will be put to the market in November and we expect to see shopfitting taking place soon after completing."

There is keen interest from Estate Agents and Vets to set up business in what are the only commercial outlets currently available in West Swindon.

Win a Recipe Book There's a chance to win a copy of Sue Kreitzman's enticing recipe book, worth nearly £7.

Look at the the Cambridge Diet word box below and see how many words you can make from it.

• Each letter can only be used once in each word and the central letter, R, must appear in every one.

• No foreign words and no proper names should be used.

• Your target is 80 words or more.

Each entry with 80 words or more will be put into the draw.

The first chosen wins the book.

Send entries to 'Word Game,' The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook. Closing date: 14th November. The draw will take place at the charity video show on 15th November at the Link Centre.

CAM BR

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No Club Cares More TOOTHILL CHURCH TUESDAY 7.30pm For Further details, ring Margaret on 874744

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AT YOUR LIBRARY Queue up for the top ten titles

8

by West Swindon Librarian Linda Black Books feature prominently in this month's page as many of our customers have been asking for more information about our new titles.

To cheer these dismal autumn days, I shall be listing 10 of the more exciting novels to reach our shelves each month. This will be in addition to special book promotions and 'Gold Collection' displays. Do remember that the books recommended in this column are likely to be in great demand and so will probably have to be requested (still excep-

tionally good value at only 30p).

I welcome comments on the new format and would like to hear of any other kind of book information you would appreciate.

Still on the subject of books, we shall shortly be benefitting from a further collection of 'Faith in Print' titles donated by the Churches of West Swindon who are extremely kind to the their local library. The two previous collections have been so well used and appreciated that many are now on their last legs - do look out for these books on our

REACH YOUR IDEAL WEIGHT AND STAY THERE WITH THE THE CAMBRIDGE DIET Call your Counsellor today: Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on Swindon 873201 41 RRS

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There are still afewdays left to put the thinking caps on and enter our Christmas writing competition.

The Link in association with West Swindon's writers group Writers Cramp' and the West Swindon Library are asking you to write a story with a Christmas theme.

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AND NOW THE WEST SWINDON LIBRARY'S NOVEMBER TOP 10

1. FRANCIS, DICK: THE EDGE (MIchael Joseph) -an action packed story of drama and intrigue set on the sinister side of the international racing circuit - an intricate plot bustling with undercover agents!

2. KRANTZ, JUDITH: TILL WE MEET AGAIN (Bantam) -blockbuster material featuring three outrageous ladies, Eve, Freddy and Delphine de Lancel, whose drama is enacted against a majestic background of a French chateau, wartime Britain, glamorous Hollywood and booming Los Angeles total escapism!

3. RYBAKOV, ANTOU: CHILDREN OF THE ARBAT (Hutchinson) -a novel breaking new ground in Soviet literature and indeed supa publicity point for the Wyvem pressed by the Soviet Union for over Theatre, so if you want to know 20 years, this novel presents a maswhat is happening at the Wyvern terful and chilling psychological over the next 3 months then come portrait of Stalin and his reign of terror. along and check the displays.

We have just received a computer printout of the top 100 most 4. CLANCY, TOM: THE CARNIVAL OF THE KREMLIN (Collins) popular books borrowed from World War III taking on a hunt for a the library over the last 12 renegade submarine - K.G.B. thriller! months. This is available at the enquiry desk for you to look at. 5. ERSKINE, BARBARA: KINGLong serving writers are very DOM OF SHADOWS (Michael Jomuch to the front, Catherine seph) Cookson, Dick Francis, Agatha The new bestseller from 'Lady of Hay' - an historical blockbuster with Christie and Ed McBain. a Scottish flavour.

Entries for writing competition closes on 5th November

SWINDON 615262

. •* Raymond S tansfield

shelves or ask the staff.

During November, the library hopes to have a special promotion of new titles relating to Wiltshire and local studies so watch out for this as well.

Two exhibitions of interest will be coming during November. The Swindon Artists Society, Autumn Exhibitions will run from Saturday 12th to 26th November. We have not had a 'popular art' exhibition for some little while and the calibre of work produced by the Swindon Artists is always first rate.

The South West Area Museum Council will be staging their exhibition 'Looking at Flowers' from November 26th right through until January 8th next year. This exhibition should be of interest to the many keen environmentalists amongst you!

Don't forget the library is now

There are prizes for Over 15's, 8-14's and even 5-7 year olds can win a prize if they paint a Christmas picture.

For the two older categories we're asking you to write no more than 600 words by 5th November. The winner will be published in the December Link.

Send your entries to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ.

6. RAYNER, CLAIRE: FLANDERS: POPPY CHRONICLES II (Weidenfield) Poppy, now 16 years of age joins the suffragettes and becomes an ambulance driver on the edge of the horror of World War II - rivetting stuff!

7. CLEARY, JOHN: NOW AND THEN AMEN (Collins) - a first rate thriller tinged with a touch of humour - expert writing.

8. FEIST, RAYMOND E: FAERIE TALE (Grafton) -a mystery novel tinged with horror and magic. A work of imagination abounding in Celtic magic - spirits, demons and possession.

9. HOLT, VICFORIA: THE INDIA FAN (Collins) The evil influence of a peacock feather fan is the theme of this novel.

You'll either love it or be bored to tears!

10.CONDON, RICHARD: PRIZZI'S GLORY (Michael Joseph) The story of a powerful American mafia family - all the tantalizing ingredients go without saying - gambling, narcotics, extortion, murder, pornography, prostitution you'll love it!

Good reading.

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FOR WOMEN Violence in Grange Park

10

New Link magazine women's writer Elizabeth Wood starts her assignments with a jolt

Hair Salon, Beauty Centre & Solarium Woodshaw Centre Wootton Bassett Tel: 854653 Hair Salon Blunsdon House Hotel Blunsdon Swindon Tel: 721701

My first column for the Link was going to be a low-key affair, 'our first six months in West Swindon and what do I think of it so far' you know the sort of thing I mean. Last night changed my mind in an unpleasantly sudden way.

Last night a woman called Jenny was thrown out of a car on the pavement of our quiet street.

The men in the car hurled punches threats and obscenities at her with a violence that was tangible inside our living room

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Fitness Workouts, Aerobics & Body Conditioning to Music All abilities Welcome

Tuesday, Toothiil Community Centre, 7pm - 8pm Wednesday, Upper Shaw Community Centre, 7.30pm - 8.30pm Saturday, Low Impact & Weights session at the Wills Club, Colbourne Street, 11am - 12noon Qualified Teacher: A.F.T.A., P.E.A., Y.M.C.A.Tralned.

Please bring a towel, mat & trainers, Come along or for more information call Fiona on 874202 after 8pm.

By the time we reached her Jenny was kneeling on the pavement, hiding her face with her long hair, clutching a carton of milk the rest of her shopping strewn in the road. While we waited for the police I tried to comfort her, tried to stifle my own fear that the car would come back.

A van pulled up and five large policemen surrounded us as we knelt on the pavement - another moment of fear. The policemen questioned Jenny gently and helped her to her feet. One of them explained apologetically that they couldn't bring a WPC. They were all tied up in another part of town where a fifteen year old girl had gone missing. "It's like this every night". Jenny was driven away still clutching her carton of milk.

This morning there are skid marks on the road and a small knot of panic in my stomach. I think of my mother-in-law confined to her house after dark, my small daughter being taught to scream "NO", the dread of footsteps in the underpass So what on earth is going on?

Over the last few days I have listened to a psychiatrist describe some women as "natural victims". I have heard it suggested that today's violence against women is a direct consequence of Women's Lib. I have seen a Mum smile at her son's vandalism and murmur "He's a real boy".

I think being a victim is an acquired habit; I don't believe that men treat us with violence because we no longer want to be treated as fragile china; and I don't think putting the boot in has anything to do with being a real boy - or real man. What do you think?

"Cut the Girls' talk!

This is War"

Education for Women The Women's Branch of the W.E.A. are holding an open evening in the Link Centre Clubroom, on Wednesday 9th November from 8.00p.m. until 9.45p.m. They are looking for ideas as to what topics women would like to see the branch organise sessions on. The evening will be quite informal and refreshments will be provided. If anyone is interested in coming and needs a lift please contact Lucie Hartley 26161 ext. 3192, or Stephanie or Linda on 618233.

For information regarding the branch please read on.

WHAT IS THE W.E.A. WOMEN'S BRANCH?

W.E.A. stands for Workers Education Association, and in Swindon there is a Women's Branch designed to promote women's interests. Courses range from the purely practical such as carpentry and bicycle maintenance to the more academic topics such as Women, Power and Politics'.

There are also courses to help prepare women who wish to return to work, like 'Introduction to Computers' and 'Information Technology'.

It is not like going back to school. Classes are led by female tutors, are quite informal, and put a lot of emphasis on the importance of life experience.

The aim of the Branch is to encourage women to be more confident about themselves.

Course fees are usually cheap, and can be reduced to a minimum of ÂŁ1 for people who are unwaged or on a low income.

Many courses also provide free creche facilities, and there are Saturday Workshops for those who are not free during the week.

Programme for local W.I.

Transfer Theatre Company, West Swindon's Womens InstiLink Arts 19th November, tute - the 'Tootleabrook W.V meets on the third Wednesday of 8p.m. Tickets ÂŁ3/2 the month in the Community

This Is a story based on the lives of Room at Toothill School, from women whose sons and hus7.30p.m. The programme for bands fought in the Falklands War, it portrays service wives and forthcoming meetings: mothers, showing the difference 16th November - Christmas Debetween the women's experience cor of the war and the 'official' version, 21st December - Christmas Party between the private anxiety and 20th January - Branch Birthday the public excitement.

Party and Faith Supper

17th February - Annual Meeting

With compassion and humour the fast-paced, impressionistic performances show how the War set New members and visitors are the women apart from the rest of always welcome. For more inforthe nation and left them coping mation ring Dorothy Ponting on with bereavement and injury alone 873156.

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12

RECREATION NICKY SLATER'S CHRISTMAS SKATING SPECTACULAR A once in a lifetime chance to see top skating stars perform at your own ice arena

Link Ice Rink Family Session Tuesday and Thursday 7.30pm - 10.00pm Sunday 10.00am - 12.30pm Adults £1.90 Concpsions £1.50 (plus 45p skate hire) Take the opportunity to celebrate that special family occasion on ice, and participate in our "family favourites" request spot or if you wish, lust come along and skate at your leisure in a more relaxed atmosphere Our family skating session is open to over 21s and family groups.

Bar, Cafeteria and Shop all accessible from the Rink.

For further details on our skating sessions telephone: (0793) 871212.

White Hill Way, Wetle, Swindon.

Wilto SN5 701.

Tel: (0793) 871212

'I,, ,

LINK

CENTRE

Britain's Most Exciting Leisure Complex

Arts & Recreation

BOROUGH OF IF THAMESDOWN

Lakesi West Swindon Ce Please do not bring fireworks or pets

Link Centre Ice Rink is proud to host 'Nicky Slater's Christmas Skating Spectacular of 1988 on Wednesday 7th December. Not only will Nicky Slater be performing in the Gala, he is also Director and Producer of the Show so you can be sure of an exciting and breathtaking family spectacular.

A visit to this year's Gala is guaranteed to be a memorable experience, especially with skating stars such as Paul and Isabelle Duchesnay - European Bronze Medallists and French Ice Dance Champions, who caused such a scandal this year with their innovative routines at the Winter Olympics. The couple are trained by Beth Callaway, Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean and are looking for gold in the forthcoming World Championships. Also, watch out for the amazing Kurt Browning, Canada's No.1 amateur competitor and world ranked No. 2, who was the first man to successfully compete a quadruple!!! toe loop in world competition.

All of the British Ice Figure Champions will be taking part including Link Centre regular David Reynolds, Great Britain No. 2. Local skaters shall also be performing.

Performances

Matinee: 2.15p.m. - 3.45p.m. Doors open at 1.30p.m.

Evening: 7.30p.m. - 9.45p.m. Doors open at 6.45p.m.

For ticket details telephone Swindon 871212.

So, make a note in your diary for the most exciting Christmas Spectacular in Swindon.

You'll find the best of family entertainment at Link Centre!

From the Bench

by Ice Hockey Development Officer, Daryl Lipsey

Two locals went for England icehockey under 14s trials in October. We sent 5 players to Chelmsford to a trial run by Swindon Wildcat player Kel Land, who once again is coach to the under 14s team. Only two made it through the first pick where they competed against 40 others from the south.

Alan Armour, 12, and Lee Braithwaite, 10, both of whom live in West Swindon attended another trial on 14th October with boys picked from the north.

Both players started last season in the junior league and have progressed to be some of the top junior players in Swindon along with the other local players who have trained hard throughout the summer months.

This is what development is all about, to see kids improve on basic skills and be given a chance at such a young age is a great thrill for myself. This season lam getting Wildcat players involved with coaching and helping out as much as possible. Rich Howe is coaching the under 14 teams and has done a great job in encouraging discipline which the number one factor.

Tim Lequyer is helping the under 16 side and with his coaching experience should help the lads out tremendously.

Keeping the players involved with the youngsters is only good

Looking for England under 14s places Alan Armour from Shaw, left, and Lee Brat hwa ite, from Freshbrook with national coach Kel Land

to hockey and keeps a good working relationship going. In turn the younger players look to the older ones who are out to set an example.

Its all about preparing for the future.

Run raises £100 A Shaw mum has raised over £100 for her local pre-school groups by running a half marathon in 1 hour 48 minutes and 56 seconds.

Jane Hillier of Worlidge Drive took part in her first half marathon at Windsor on 2nd October.

Although she was worn out for a few days afterwards, she says she enjoyed herself.

Shaw Ridge Parent and Toddlers and Upper Shaw Farm Playgroup will benefit from Jane's effort when all the promised money is collected.

say (

AN OPEN FORUM MONDAY 21st NOVEMBER 1988, 7.30p.m.

Link Arts Studio, Link Centre After 3 years of operation, Link Centre is now firmly established in West Swindon, but as the centre develops it is increasingly important that the community has a say in the way it provides a service.

The Council, through the Recreation Sub-Committee, is very interested in having your views on: the facilities, the programme of activities, prices, opening hours, access, cleanliness, advertising and the many, many other topics you, the customers and users, might like to raise.

We want to hear your comments, criticism, suggestions and compliments.

In the firing line will be: Councillor Tony Mayer - Chair, Arts & Recreation Committee Councillor Peter Brown - Chair, Recreation Sub-Committee Graham Swatton - Head of Recreation Services John Fisher - Link Centre Co-Ordinator Also present will be officers and member representatives from the Art Suite, Community Suite and Library sections of the Link Centre.

Everyone is invited and will be most welcome to come along and contribute, or just listen to the discussions. If you are unable to attend or feel embarrassed about speaking in public, please complete the form below and we will ensure that your point is raised.

Your Contribution is Vital - Please Have Your Say!

Arts & Recreation BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN

Can't come? Don't want to speak In public? Use this form to put your point of view or a question.

Send it to the Link Centre, West Swindon, drop it in at reception, or bring it with you on 21st November and put it in the box at the beginning of the Open Forum.

Name: Address: Your identity will not be made public, but your details will enable us to ensure that you receive details of the reply.

ARTS SCENE

14 STAGE CORNER & FANCY DRESS CORNER Ballet, Tap Shoes & all Dance Wear Theatrical Make Up Large Selection of Adult & Childrens Fancy Dress Costumes for Hire We also supply Standard Fireworks to go with your fancy dress

103, Faringdon Road Swindon. Te1: 522729

Whats on at Link Arts Studios If you're Irish...

Step into the Unk Centre where Irish dancing classes take place In the Arts Studio on Mondays from 7p.m. to 8.30p.m.

The class is taken by former

All-Ireland dancing champion May Kelly and is open to boys and girls from three years of age upwards.

For futher details contact May Kelly on 47937.

Specialists in video & TV repairs Free home estimates All work guaranteed Service from Barn - 9pm NO CALL OUT CHARGE

TEL: SWINDON 813485 .

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WYVERN THEATRE The Wyvern Arts Trust in association with Kevin Wood

The Spectacular all-laughter Family Pantomime

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WIN THE HOLIDAY OFA LIFETIME to FLORIDA COMPLIMENTS OF POUNOSTRETCHER IN CONJUNCTION WITH

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK Telephone Jacky Pearce on 771534 or Christine Brodie on 814485

DANCE

JAZZ

Tuesday 1st November - Friday 11th November - 'THE

'PHOENIX DANCE COMPANY' with a Dance Class for 11 - 15 years old at 2.30p.m. and a Performance at 8.00p.m. Cost: class £1.25, performance £3.50 or £2.00. Special price at £2.50 for both class and performance.

EDDIE PROVOST QUARTET' a Swindon Jazz Front presentation at 8.00p.m. Tickets: £3.50! £2.50/1 .00.

ROCK Saturday 12th November 'SALAD FROM ATLANTIS' + support - a Swindon Rock Front THEATRE Wednesday 2nd & Saturday 5th concert at 8.00p.m. Cost: £1.50.

November - 'MACBETH' by Magic Roundabout Theatre DAYTIME POTTERY Company. Tickets £3.00/2.00 at Starting Thursday 10th November - No booking necessary, 7.30p.m.

Saturday 19th November - CUT come along from 9.30a.m. THE GIRLS TALK! THIS IS 11.30a.m. Tutor on hand for WAR!' - by Transfer Theatre at guidance.

8.00p.m. Tickets: £3.O0/2.00 Throughout the week there are FILM (Link Arts Film Society & workshops at the Studios in Childrens Film Club presenta- dance, pottery, stained glass, photography, arts and crafts. tions) Thursday 3rd November - THE Ring 871212 ext 245 for details CRANES ARE FLYING' (U) - in and information on all the perassociation with the British So- formances. viet Friendship Society, 7.30p.m.

Thursday 10th November - 'MY The Link Arts Studios are also LIFE AS A DOG' (PC), 7.30p.m. available for use by the commuThursday 17th November - nity for meetings, seminars, film 'THE SEAGULL' (U) - in associa- and video presentations tion with the British Soviet Friendship Society, 7.30p.m.

Half-term with the Saturday 19th November 'KING SOLOMONS MINES' (U) Bridge Fellowship -(Childrens Film Club), 2.30p.m.

Thursday 24th November - They write: 'CRIMES OF PASSION' (18), Just another half term holiday?!

This half term the choice is yours!

7.30p.m.

If you are aged between 13 and 18, then for absolutely no expenditure to your pocket you can benefit from the activities and events being laid on by The Bridge Christian Fellowship.

On Saturday 29th October, at Come on a trip to London with the Link Arts Studios, The Bridge Dick Whittington and His Cat present 'Split Level'. This band and meet all your favourites in from Northern Ireland have this year's pantomime at the toured extensively throughout Wyvern Theatre.

Britain and visited Europe. They Peter Denyer (TV's DearJohn) have played both small venues will be ruthless King Rat, An- and large ones, up to 25,000 on drew O'Conner (TV's On The one occasion at a rock festival.

Waterfront) as Idle Jack and This is a unique opportunity to Michael Groth (TV's Splash) as hear them locally and certainly Dick Whittington. Swindon's not one to be missed! Doors open very own Pollyann Tanner will at 7.30p.m. be the lovely Alice Fitzwarren Other events: and GWR favourites Mark Sea- Ice skating: 2.00p.m. - 3.30p.m. man and Bob Harrison add their Wednesday 2nd November, The own brand of festive fun to the Link Centre. occasion.

Swimming: 2.00p.m. - 4.00p.m.

Come along and watch Dick Thursday 3rd, The Link Centre.

Whittington rise to fame and ,The Chocolate Marshmallow fortune as foretold by the sound Drop' and other crazy games: of the Bow Bells. Add to this the 7.30p.m. Thursday 3rd, Wyvern's very own recipe of Freshbrook School community magic and entertainment which Room. ensures success every time and 'The Cross and the Switchthis is a pantomime not to miss! blade', Feature Film: 7.30p.m.

The box office is open now for Friday 4th, The Link Arts Stutickets to Dick Whittington from dios.

16th December to 15th January.

The credit card number is 694055, For further information telebox office is 24481. phone 27250 or 613209.

It's Panto time at the Wyvern Theatre

DAY INTHE LIFE 15 Seagulls over Swindon - Bill Elders of Freshbrook reflects on a lucky escape This week I fell from the summer house roof.

By Olympic standards it wasn't much of a dive, a mere ten feet or so, but it was backwards and on to a hardcore gravel covered surface, unlike Mr. Louganis's soft landing!

What, you may legitimately ask, was a 65 year old retired banker, doing up there in the first place? Good question. I had been there all morning rubbing down paintwork, but Jean had grudgingly (she's opposed to adventurous/foolhardy D.I.Y.) held the steps. She is also convinced that there's more than a hint of male chauvanist idiot in all men.

I also have this know it all 19 year old kid inside me who occasionally takes over! Anyway, this kid and me, we BOTH fell off the summer house roof!

On the way down I caught a glimpse of a seagull, soaring in the wide blue yonder. It always amazes me to see 'Seagulls Over Swindon' even though they are puny creatures, surviving as they probably do in West Swindon on a diet of discarded 'Trawlerman Chippie' fish fingers! It's a pity for environmental reasons they didn't eat the wrappings as well.

Seagulls in hometown Aberdeen are kingsize Albatross look alike birds. Their gastric juices dissolve a three pound fish in seconds and they can zap you from 5,000 feet! Dedicated followers of fashion they indiscriminately patrol Union Street's magnificent mile.

You're walking to work, preening in every shop window and, depending on sex, fabulous

by French Connection, Wacho by Marks, yummy in Jaegar, pretty

by Principle, nifty by Next, when SPLAT! It's a bullseye baby - go home! There are bald guys in Aberdeen; nothing to do with genes or heredity.

Like the eagle I landed, heard and felt the thud - oblivion. I came to and the gull was still there, circling effortlessly, not recognising a sitting or rather prostrate target! BUT I CAN SEE! Jean was there too, her face crumpled with anxiety and fear.

And the ambulance crew. She'd dialled 999. The quiet, practical good guy. You don't like her?

Look for the fault in yourself.

Meantime Pam? and her oppo Grant Anderson (there's a good Scots name) are endeavouring to strap me into one of those split stretchers you've seen on 'Casualty'. Grant has my neck in a collar, Pam has strapped my feet.

From now on for 4 hours, all I see is up!

This petite female samaritan is astride my body with her arms round my waist. "Can you put your arms round my neck love?"

Now she asks me! Grant's encouraging face hovers above with the gull. I remember the battle cry of The Clan Grant 'Standfast!,' I could do with a double myself. The 19 year old kid is thinking a double-entendre!

This is my third visit to P.M.H. in the six years we have lived in West Swindon. The second time I saw a Japanese specialist. The first was a gardening incident. In our front garden we have a cultivated broom, that is beautiful in summer. In Autumn it becomes brittle and brown. Bending over to edge the grass I pierced my left eyeball on one of the stems and it broke off, leaving a piece like a cocktail stick at approximately treble 13!

The River Ray Parkway Project An exciting plan to get people living In different parts of Thamesdown Involved In a plan to create a large, traffic free, piece of countryside In the town, Is to be presented to a public meeting on Monday 7th November at 7.1 5p.m. in the Lydlard Park Visitor Centre. Residents of West Swindon are especially Invited to attend.

Jean declined an invitation to pull it out so I drove myself to P.M.H. in the same scruffy clothes I'm wearing now. Old favourites, twice rescued from the dustbin!

A Pakistani doctor came to my aid. Incidentally, my droll Celtic humour was a mystery to him.

The operation over, "Read the chart" he said, "Where?" I said.

"Anywhere" he said. "Made in Hongkong" I said. "Very good eyesight" he said astonished.

"Just a wee joke" I said, explaining I had looked before he came in.

But I digress. Pam drove with gentle consideration while Grant reassured Jean. A Glaswegian sister and an Indian doctor took charge. A West Indian nurse took me to X Ray. I think the porter was Irish. Disembodied accents, faces that come and go. I tell the radiographer I'm not pregnant as the ceiling poster advises. She kindly laughs encouragement though she's heard it all before.

Twelve pictures she takes of my head, neck and spine.

"You're very lucky" she tells me later. "Your photos are all OK".

To the porter, "Take the Flying Scotsman up". "You'll be sore",

she tells me. "Bed and rest".

It seems to me in retrospect P.M.H. is a United Nations without the nationalistic bickering and cultural prejudices. I have been given succour there by English, Irish, Welsh, Scots, Indian, West Indian, Japanese, Pakistani, to name but a few. But there are Polish, Italians, Chinese, Greeks in Swindon who have been similarly treated.

A visit to P.M.H. is like going home, where home is a place, that when you go there, no matter what you have done, they have got a to take you in.

Pity it's not universal.

Styling at Home

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The area in question stretches Community involvement is very WE HAVE THE JOBS! from Haydon Wick in the north to important to the project accordChiseldon in the south with the ing to Richard Keating, ThWHERE ARE THE PEOPLE! Shaw Ridge open space making amesdown Council's Urban We have numerous temporary vacancies available to hard working a green branch out to Lydiard Fringe Officer. He is looking for reliable people who wish to earn some money.

Park. The plan is to link all these residents, schools and local Secretarial, Administrative, Clerical, Warehouse and Technical. areas and include routes to groups to take an active involveThese positions would be suitable for school leavers, mums wishing to get back to work, students, unemployed, more mature Coate Water and Mouldon Hill ment in the project by helping people, part-time or full-time.

Country Park near Moreden. with improving footpaths, plantContact Sue Rawlins for more Information.

The plan has been launched by ing trees, digging ponds, hedge (Our service is absolutely free). the Thamesdown Environmental laying and dozens of other tasks.

Forum and is being backed by He hopes that lots of people will STORM MANAGEMENT SERVICES local authorities and nature con- come along on 7th November to servancy organisations. find out more.

I 27 Commercial Road, Swindon. Tel: 481301.

EDUCATION MATTERS

16

Accountability in Practice The advent of such as the obliga- to observe the commitment, tory School Prospectus, the right team-work and pride in the their of parents to express a choice of achievements of students living school for their children and the as far apart geographically as increased influence of governing Ashton 1(eynes and Toothill, bodies has had a profound effect. who have become firm friends A school is entirely and rightly and very purposeful colleagues. hat a accountable to its pupils, to their It is generally accepted that parents and guardians and to the school's accountability lies pri.community at large. Gone surely manly in developing, to the fullare the days when the impres- est extent possible, each stusive, but too often excessive dent's academic and social p0claims of headteachers formed tential. For that not to remain the the only basis on which any 'empty rhetoric' I mentioned school could be judged. The earlier, each school must provide requirement to publish examina- evidence for students and their tion results, for example, has si- families. lenced the empty rhetoric of the Bradon Forest can offer examipast. Regular and relevant home nation results in G.C.S.E., R.S.A. studies enable parents to be and Colleges of Music which have been consistently been well closely involved, I was reminded of this at Bra- above national standards and are don Forest's recent Open Eve- now very substantially so.

In the last year of '0' Level and fling where an always welcome visitor was Marjorie Barker, C.S.E. over 30% of candidates left Freshbrook School's head- with at least five '0' Levels or teacher. We recalled the hopes their equivalent. In the first year and aspirations we had shared of G.C.S.E., witha fewresults still fiveyears previously for the first awaited, over 34% of candidates Freshbrook children to transfer have achieved at least five Grade by right to the school. It was C's or above, the highest percenttherefore a shared pleasure to see age in the School's history. In evidence of the immensely suc- areas as diverse as the Sciences, cessful and valued contribution Modern Languages, English, made by young people from Drama, History and Business throughout West Swindon to and Information Studies over Bradon Forest. It was gratifying 50% of those entered achieved

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Ian Perkins, headteacher of Bradon Forest School, Purton, continues The Link magazines series on secondary schools to which West Swindon parents can send their children

Pupils from a wide catchment with Mr. Perkins, from left to right, Jeremy Ban ow from Srcells, Kate Kimber from Leigh, Ben Poole from Cricklade, Sarah Ramsey from Grange Park, Clare Colbert from Spa rcells, Dylan Kaye from Toothill, Sylva Ahmed from Toothill, Carl Stevenson from Purton, Katherine Ashburn from Ashton Keynes.

Grade C or above. That meant in English, for example, over 100 out of 180 candidates were Grade C or above. Barely 2% of all examination entries resulted in a below-pass grade. Early-entry Maths was once again outstan ingly successful. What was particularly pleasing was the aboveexpected achievements by students of all abilities, a tribute to their dedication, to that of their teachers and tutors and to parental support.

The many students who continue into post-16 education mainly select from the very wide and challenging options available at New College and Swindon College. Many too have one on to further success at University, Polytechnic and Collees of Education.

Tor those pupils with considerable learning difficulties or indeed just a specific one, a very able and experienced team of Special Needs teachers provides the necessary support.

Bradon Forest, with a role of just below 900, has the opportunity, which it fully exploits, to know its pupils individually, to be able to identify and provide for their particular needs . Not least we recognise the priority requirement to prepare our students for working in a very competitive society. Social and Personal Education and Careers programmes provide all young people with the capacity, for example, to be effective at interview and to be responsible and loyal employees. The school has a developing work experience schedule to facilitate this; equally representatives from 'the world of work' regularly visit the school.

On the sports field, the school has met with very considerable

success. In a wide range of sports, from netball, athletics and hockey to soccer, rugby and basketball, Bradon Forest students represent the county and the region and compete nationally.

Teams regularly win local school competitions.

In last year's Swindon Boys' under 15 soccer squad, the school's three representatives were all from West Swindon.

Just as importantly, I value the letters I receive from other schools complimenting our students on their natural courtesy and sportsmanship.

Other extra curricular activities include visits abroad, for skiing, for language acquisition, for generally furthering knowledge as well as study visits, selfdevelopment and outward bound activities at home.

Recent dramatic productions in our well-equipped studio have attracted capacity audiences and return visits by the authors and playwrites. Whole year musical concerts are a growing feature.

The student-run School Council has had a growing influence on school affairs, fund-raising for charity and to improve the school environment. The Council typifies the belief in an acquired self-discipline, in respect for community and property, in belonging to a united, caring and positive team, symbolised by the wearing of uniform, in students and staff working with mutual respect and understanding, that the School values.

West Swindon students, over 200 here, form a very substantial force for good in the school. Let us all hope that their many established achievements form the basis of growing success in the future. They certainly deserve it.

17

EDUCATION MATTERS Last month West Swindon's team of youth workers used The Link to explain their work and gave an insight into the type of contact they have with young people In the area. Over the next few weeks there is a chance for people living in West Swindon to become more involved with young people - in a guided and supported way.

Until now, anybody who wanted to work with teenagers or young adults in the community had to commit themselves to an extended course in addition to being involved in a youth group.

More usually however, they were thrown in at the deep end and expected to join in with established youth club activities.

This can be a daunting, and sometimes threatening experi-

ence for anybody who might not be sure whether they want to work with young people in asemivoluntary capacity.

To get round these blockages, which often prevent people from becoming involved in youth work, a very short course is being organised to give people a 'taste' of what it might be like to work with young adults. It will take place on one evening a week over a six week period starting 8th November, ending with a party just before Christmas.

The course is organised by the Wiltshire County Council Youth Service and will cover a broad range of topics.

Local School holds open week West Swindon's secondary school, Greendown at Grange Park, is opening its doors to prospective parents and others interested in its education programme from Tuesday 8th to Friday 11th November.

During day-time sessions visitors will receive a 'student guided tour' and be able to take part in 'classroom lesson involvement.' These will include computing and technology sessions, maths and science work, arts, music and dance sessions, gymnastics and basketball displays.

In the evenings there will be a number of displays by staff and students including 'Have A Go French' and 'Multi-Activity Spanish,' sessions on problem solving, exploring the past and World Development.

There will also be many static displays of student work, teaching materials and plans of future building development.

The Open Week is primarily aimed at parents whose children enter secondary school next year and are making their choices of which one. However Greendown headteacher Ian Matthews would welcome interest from anyone who would like to learn more about the school and its methods of educating children.

There are a very limited number of daytime places available for visitors and booking is necessary by telephoning 874224.

Readers can visit during the eveve ning but are advised to ring the school for a programme which indicates when different activities take place.

Pictured below: Ian Matthews recently received a generous gift of 12 Honeywell computer terminals from Dianne Edgar, marketing manager from PHH Limited of Windmill Hill, and Mike Leach, who supervised their installation.

Week 1. Young People and 'Us' (Adults). The pressures of adolescence and the need for adult understanding.

2. The Youth Service and the opportunities to work with adults on a sessional or full-time basis.

3. Looking at youth work practice through visits to youth centres around Swindon.

4. Our' (adult) attitudes and responsibilities to working with young people; looking at different methods of approaching

young people and youth work.

5. Social Education: What it means as an aim of youth work.

6. Looking back on the course combined with a social event.

The course will be of great value to those who think they are interested in youth work, but do not want to commit themselves until they find out more.

It starts on Tuesday 8th November, from 7.30p.m. to 9.30p.m., at Greendown Community School. To book a place or to find out more, telephone Richard Roberts or David Wheweii on 512525, ext.

248 (Area Education Office, Sanford Street, Swindon).

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18

FAMILIES WITH UNDER 5s Project helps children in early years

In September 1988 Wiltshire County Council allocated extra financial support for teachers to work in the urban schools in Swindon and the military service schools in Salisbury.

The Project Team in Swindon consists of five teachers working in a variety of areas. In West Swindon, Claire Campion is attached to Toothill and Freshbrook Schools to work with the children there and in the local community.

The 'Early Years Education Project' is a pilot scheme which is planned to run for two years. At the end of this period it is hoped that the project may move to other schools.

The Early Years Education Support Team has a variety of roles. One of their most important functions will be to liaise between parents, playgroups, childminders, health and social

Under 5's Forum,' several playgroups and many parent and toddler groups. Some of the ways that the EYE project team can compliment this existing provision for young children could be to develop toy libraries, toy packs and parent and child activity afternoons in the schools concerned.

If anybody would like to discuss the aims of the Project Team or would like to be involved in the activities please contact Claire Campion at Toothill School, telephone 47250.

A booklet packed with useful information for under fives and their families in West Swindon has just been re-launched.

Called "Toddler Out West," the booklet aims to help parents with information about services, facilities and community groups for pre-school children.

Health, welfare and social needs are all listed and there is a short description by nearly every parent and toddler group in the area. All the groups are different as they are each run by the volunteer members. Some are social gatherings for the parent and child, others put emphasis on creative activity together.

Unfortunately, many of the parent and toddler groups and the playgroups have waiting lists. This can be very frustrating for parents who want to meet others and want their children to take part in activities.

"Toddler Out West" has been compiled by 'West Swindon Under 5s,' a group that tries to bring groups and individuals concerned with pre-school children together to discuss matters of interest. Copies of the booklet can be obtained free of charge from the Community Suite in the Link Centre

Parents in fifth village wait for building to start playgroup

New Parent & Toddler group in Freshbrook looks for more members

A Claire Campion (centre) helps out at Toothill 's Dunwich Drive Playgroup with, from left to right, playgroup mum Dawn Bathe, Cheryl Rideout, Shannel Reece, Donna Huddy and playgroup supervisor Janet Freeguard

services and the schools. This will hopefully ensure that all parents and children have an early contact with learning.

In West Swindon there are quite a number organisations working with children under 5.

These include the West Swindon

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A group of parents at Sparcells, A new pre-school group has started at Freshbrook Community Centre. Called Freshbrook Ladybirds, the group aims to bring parents and children unporary community building der three years of age together can be set up in their area. for a couple of hours of play and The group, which was fea- chat on a Monday afternoon. tured on the front page of the Ladybirds was launched by October Link, have been meet- Nicki Grey of Lisle Close, ing on the Locobus, Swindon's Grange Park. "Me and a friend mobile community centre. were moaning about having However the bus can only visit nothing to do and the children the area on Friday mornings were getting bored, so we debetween 10.30a.m. and noon, cided to get out and organise for a few more weeks. So a something. more permanent arrangement "Ladybirds is a new group, so is needed soon to cater for the we're looking for new people to growing number of pre-school join the five of us who have been children living in the area. meeting so far. It a good way for Several local housebuilders the children to meet others and have indicated that they maybe for mums to get together for a willing to contribute to the chat." purchase of a temporary builThe group meets in ing to cater for the people who Freshbrook Community Centre have bought houses from them. on a Monday, from 1.30p.m. to The parents group will be car- 3.30p.m. To keep costs down, rying out a survey of the num- refreshments are organised by ber of under 5s in the area dur- the group and each person is ing November and will be call- asked to bring their own mug. ing a meeting of interested parTo find out more about Ladyents later in the month. birds, ring Nicki Grey on 872483.

West Swindon's fifth and at present most remote village, have started fundraising to set up a playgroup as soon as a tem-

NEWS & VIEWS Counselling centre looks for a home Plans to set up a counselling and support centre in West Swindon have suffered a major set-back.

A proposal to set up the centre at Wick Farmhouse on Shaw Ridge was rejected by Thamesdown Council's Arts and Recreation Committee in August. Councillors decided to consider how the farm buildings could be used in connection with the recreation facilities at Lydiard Park.

In the short term the farmhouse will continue as a base for the Thamesdown Archaelogical Project.

The counselling centre idea is being promoted by the Reverend John Flory, a member of the West Swindon ecumenical church team.

He has not been put off by the block to his plans.

"Obviously I am disappointed that the centre cannot be set up at Wick Farm because its size was perfect. It would have allowed a couple of families to live there and establish a haven where people under pressure could go for support.

"I'm grateful to the Chairman and Director of Arts and Recreation who have kept me informed, but I am surprised the committee has the funds to consider renovating the farm. Its a listed building in poor condition and will cost a fortune to put right "Rev. Flory spent three months during 1987 visiting Christian 'communities' around the country and forming ideas for a support centre.

'West Swindon has a lot going for it, a pleasant environment, community groups, leisure facilities and so on. But there is a mountain of hidden need not being adequately met.

"For all its exciting 'get-up-andgo' feel, it is nevertheless a 'hurling' community. Loneliness, marital stress and financial worries affect the lives of many families. Many cope, but some cannot handle the challenge or take the pressure of life in a place like this. And because the area has grown so quickly, there is a tremendous concentration of problems.

"1 and my wife plan to live in the 'community' we set up. It will have a warm, friendly atmosphere and it would be as if people were coming into a home. The environment will be different than going to a surgery, clinic and talking to a social worker at home.

"We cannot deny that our motivation comes from christian concern for people, but getting them into church is not what we're trying to do.

We are aware of people in crisis; we are concerned to help support the burden a little.

"The need for a counselling centre is stronger than ever and we continue to look for suitable premises," he says.

John Florey can be contacted on 770217.

19

With the reprieve of the Thamesdown Archaeology Project, Nick Digby resumes his occasional articles on West Swindon's links with the past by

Digging for Domesday at Wick Farm Prior to the development of 'The should contact Thamesdown's Prinnels' excavations are taking Community Archaeologist, place around Wick Farm to ex- Chris Chandler, for further deamine the earth platforms that tails on 770306, or call in at Wick surround the farm complex.

Farm.

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ArchaeologistsNick Digby and Chris Chandler with fourth year GCSE students from Ridgeway School, from left to right, Kieth Gibson from Westlea and Cohn Smith from Toothihl Machine trenches were dug in mid September and since then a team of archaeologists from The Thamesdown Archaeology Unit, helped by volunteers and enthusiasts have been looking into the farm's past.

Results so far are very encouraging as several of the platforms are producing pottery fragments that date back to around Domesday, circa 900 years ago. This means the farm is at least 200 years older than anyone previously could prove, and there is a good chance that its origins can be traced back into the late Saxon period.

Several stone surfaces, that may be the remains of buildings, are presently being cleaned.

These may have been floors for barns, byres or other farm buildings, or even the remains of earlier farmhouses. The amount of pottery certainly suggests that the domestic part of the farm was very close by. These early finds are much more exciting than had been hoped for by the site director, and now it is hoped that much more will be discovered before the excavation ends in mid January. With the large area involved though, time will be tight.

At the beginning of October pupils from Wroughton's Ridgeway School, studying for GCSE Archaeology joined others on the site for 'hands on' experience.

All were very enthusiastic, even if not over impressed with the prevailing weather!

More volunteers are always needed and anyone interested

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20 Out & About with the 45+ Club The 45+ Club at the Link Centre Community Suite are not the sort of club to sit on a large bank balance. They'd rather be sitting on a coach, for a day or evening outing.

With 130 members, the Club has to hire 2 coaches for days out like the one to Chepstow in May. The 100 people on board enjoyed a tour of the glassworks and then went on to sun themselves on the banks of the Wye at Symonds Yat. A mystery tour late in June found them at The King and Queen' at Longcot, and the final fling this summer was a day at Bognor Regis in August. This was followed by a trip to Bicester Market in October.

Sixty or more people turn up each Tuesday at 2p.m. for a social afternoon, often with a speaker.

Then on the second and fourth Sundays each month Tea Dances get everyone moving with up to 80 in attendance. Proceeds from these regular activities support the outings, which are free to members. Next year, the Club has been wondering about getting all West Swindon over 45's together for one big day out out on the train (to Weymouth perhaps?).

NEW & VIEWS No more ugly estate agents boards - hopefully New regulations placing restrictions on the activities of Estate Agents come into force on 28th October - and not before time according to some agents.

Under the new rules, there can only be one estate agents advertising board per property, it must not be more than two feet three inches square and it can only say 'For Sale' or 'Sold subject to contract.' Once the property is sold the board must be removed within 14 days.

To back up the new regulations the local planning department can bring prosecutions against estate agents who do not comply.

West Swindon based estate agents Nationwide Anglia Sandoes already work within the rules according to manager Peter Frost. "Our boards already conform to the size proposed and we do not put a board up if there is already one at a property. We welcome the regulations, but

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fear that they may be abused because it will still be possible to erect new boards whilst leaving others lying on the ground."

Barry Brock, Manager of Parkers, the other West Swindon based estate agent at Mannington said his office have been introducing the new size boards for the past six months. Their clients are also being made aware of various points of law, such as the vendors responsibility to allow only one board outside a property.

At Dreweatt Neate, senior negotiator Cohn Jones welcomes the tightening up on standards but is concerned that the local authority will not be able to enforce the rules. "1 hope the public will become more aware of what estate agents can and cannot do

and will draw the council's attention to where the law is being broken."

Nick Davies, Borough Planning Officer at Thamesdown Council, says his planning department will be keeping an eye on the situation. "In the first place I hope estate agents will heed the regulations voluntarily.

If not, we will enforce them.

"Members of the public can contact us to point out if boards are illegal or causing an eyesore.

Its one way the community can be involved in improving the environment."

Making Money "You get the bargains and your money goes to a good cause" is the motto of the monthly Link Centre Charity Markets.

Between 12 and 20 community groups mount stalls selling anything from cakes and goodies to handycrafts and bric-a-brac.

The Link Charity Markets are held on the third Saturday of the month, the next being 19th November.

Community groups can book a stall at the market for ÂŁ2 by contacting Dive Parkinson in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, telephone 871212 ext.234.

Halloween Unmasked Carol Soulsby writes on behalf of West lea Church.

On the face of it, Halloween is just harmless childish fun - an opportunity to dress up, play games and inflict 'trick of treat' on the neighbours. Yet underneath this harmless exterior lie hidden dangers that most parents and children are unaware of.

The origins of Halloween lie in the distant past when celebrations were held by the Druids in honour of Samhain, Lord of the Dead, whose festival fell on 1st November and marked the entry of winter. Later the medieval Christians feast of All Hallows was kept on the same day. In todays Halloween pagan symbolism is prominent with little or no Christian overtone. The growing popularity of Halloween going hand in hand with the growing respectability of the occult.

Not only can children be led to experiment with areas of occult activity, such as ouji boards, tarot cards, etc., as a result of their experience of Halloween but they are led to believe that witches are harmless, fuddy duddy old ladies on broomsticks. In reality the opposite is true - with an estimated 30,000 or so witches in Britain dressed just as you or!,

who really do cast spells and follow a Satanic religion of lies, fear and death.

As a result of youngsters and adults being caught in the occult trap, Christian ministers and psychiatrists have to deal with problems which vary in severity from depression and broken relationships to feelings of being controlled by unknown forces, sexual deviation and even murder.

Christians are not just making a fuss when they denounce Halloween 'celebrations' - the Bible could not be clearer, Satan does exist, there are demons and evil spirits, human beings can become oppressed and controlled by them and there is a spiritual battle taking place between Satan and God. However, the Bible also reveals the ultimate power for good- God's Son, Jesus Christ, who defeated Satan's evil powers once and for all on the cross and proved his victory by rising from the dead. He is the cure, so why subject our youngsters to such danger, when we can so easily prevent it by celebrating All Hallows Eve instead of Halloween like our medieval Christian counterparts and ensuring the fun is harmless.

21

HOME & GARDEN Butterflies comes to Shaw

Taking the headaches out of plans

Anybody who has had an extension built knows that the process A recent addition to the growing of getting planning permission list of businesses within West and building regulation apSwindon is the soft furnishings proval can be a time consuming, concept under the 'Butterfly' worrying and stressful exercise.

Local expert Steve Wright from label offered by Shaw resident, Grange Park provides just the Kathy Lloyd.

Kathy transferred to Swindon service that people thinking of from the Lincoln-based head- extending or altering their quarters of an entrepreneurial houses need. Not only does he electronics company three years draw up plans of the proposed ago in her capacity as PA/Secretary to the Assistant Managing She offers a competitive servDirector. ice and tells me that, whilst she A developing interest in soft has not yet ordered the Mercedes furnishings and a two year pe- 300SL, Dick Lovett has kindly riod in Public Relations has fired supplied the brochure! her own entrepreneurial fuse She welcomes soft furnishing and she is now 'going it alone'. enquiries on Swindon 874437.

work to be done, but he will also make the submission to the planning department and enter into negotiations with the building control officers if necessary.

Winter weather is not the best for building works, but anybody who wants to get an early start in the spring next year should get their plans and permissions now.

It all takes a long time and thinking ahead will pay off when better weather arrives.

Having lived here for 11 years Steve Wright knows West Swimdon very well. He can be contacted on 871553

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Some tips from Claire Beaton November is a disgusting month, damp, foggy and chill. I do not enjoy working outside in the garden and neither, in such weather, does the garden enjoy being worked upon.

As with so many other aspects sprays to deck picture frames of the pastime, the gardening and trimmings that an be wired media tries to make you anxious onto twine to form festoons with and guilty about this lack of ac- ivy. This is another plant that tivity. I was astounded to see one looks as attractive outdoors as newly published book extolling indoors and again has many the pleasures of the garden in variegated forms to brighten winter being promoted with the your winter landscape. phrase 'a book for the serious Against this evergreen mask gardener.' Who do they think can be grown a bright highlight; they are kidding?

Viburnham bodnantense 'Dawn' The best place to enjoy the has attractive pink flowers for a garden in winter is from the in- month or more at this time. side of a warm house. Careful Another plant that flowers on thought will make the view a bare twigs is the cherry Prunus pleasant one; the plan is to mask subhirtella autumnalis. This is a dingy view with an attractive normally grown as a small tree evergreen or two along the sight- but can be grown as a bush or line from your favourite window half-standard. It is starred with a and then create a small pool of sweep of small white flowers colour in front of it with winter that rush to appear during flowers, from a small shrub and, milder winter weather. If space later, from spring flowering restricts you to one foreground bulbs. plant in your winter view, ViburI do own one book cataloguing num tinus has bunches of small winter attractions. There are whit flowers throughout the whole chapters about early flow- winter months and can be ing rhododendrons, winter flow- trimmed to whatever size is ering heathers and early spring needed (bold cuts after flowerbulbs that can make patches of ing, not a short-back-and-sides winter colour. Fewer pages ex- with shears). pand the possibilities of everSwindon town centre offers green shrubs that are ornaments some marvellous examples of because of their attractive shape planting for winter effect around or leaf variagation. My favour- the bus station plaza and outside ites are hollies, mahonias and certain office buildings near the viburnums. railway station. Pictures of these Hollies are useful, attractive have already appeared in one shrubs whose dark green leaves gardening book that I've seen. glitter along their spines and Bus journeys into town give a shine with yellow or white var- good opportunity to watch how iagations. There are many varie- an attractive piece of planting ties and although both sexes are changes in appearance but reneeded to produce berries it is mains a delight to the eye during still possible to have both vari- all the winter months. The egated leaves and some berries. beauty displayed calms at least When Christmas arrives care- this frustrated car commuter's ful pruning will provide small ragged nerves!

R.T. Farley

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Telephone Steve Wright on Swindon 871553

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EASY PARKING -COLLECTION /DELIVERY SERVICE _________ MON-FRI. 8am - 6pm; SAT. 8am - 5pm U r.i1t.r' Unit 9, Marlborough Road Industrial Estate, Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire SN4 8AX Tel: Swindon 854821

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END PIECES Collectors Wanted Diwali - Festival of Lights, The Thamesdown branch of the ,!

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Wishing Well Appeal for the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children needs street collectors in West Swindon at the end of November.

All the collectors will get together on the evening of 12th December for refresments with the stars of Dick Whittington at the Wyvem Theatre whilst the collection is being counted.

If you can help, contact the Appeals Director Mollie Tanner on 23895.

Freshbrook Fundraising

More detail of what's on in West Swindon during November will be found within The Link. Leek also at Arts Scene and the Library page for specific information October 28th Dazzle Fashion Show and Party, 730p.m. at Westlea School.

31st Guy making workshop Toothill Farm, 11 a.m.

November 7th Meeting of Environmental FoJumble Sale 1030am. Freshbrook rum to include a presentation on the Parent & Toddler Group in the com- River Ray Parkway Project, Lydiard munity centre Refreshments. Ad: Country Park Visitor Centre, 7.1 5p.m. lop 8th Diwali Festival, l2noon-3p.m.

Link Centre Community Suite.

Thursday 17th November Pick up your Christmas presents at a 8th Youth Work Course, 730p.m.Ladles Night organised by 930p.m., Greendown Community Freshbrook Playgroup from 8p.m. in School. the community centre.

12th Freshbrook Mother & Toddler Local party plan demonstrators on Jumble Sale. Freshbrook Comm uinhand - Tupperware, Usborne Books, ity Centre, 10.30a.m.

Studio Dee, flower arrangements, 12th Shaw Ridge School Craft Fayre china & Brass, toys and lots more.

1 .30p.m.-3.30p.m.

Cost: 50p includes refreshments.

15th Video Show - 'Cambridge Slim Cuisine', 730p.m. Community Suite, All the following take place on Link Centre.

19th November.

15th Shaw Residents Association meeting, Shaw Church, Nine Elms Christmas Fair - 10a.m. - Noon Rainbow Playgroup in the Commu- Lane,7.45p.m. nity Centre. See Santa first, Christ- 16th Tootlea Brook W.I. meeting mas draw, jumble, books & toys, Christmas Decor - 730p.m. at Toothill School, Community Room. cakes, tombola.

17th Ladies Night organised by Refreshments. Ad: 15p & lOp Freshbrook Playgroup. Freshbrook Table Top Sale - 10a.m. - 2p.m.

Community Centre 800p.m.

Greendown Woodcraft Folk in the 19th Link Centre Charity Market, Community Room, Freshbrook 10a.m.-2p.m.

School. Tables: £3 -book on 511802. 19th Rainbow Playgroup Christmas Bazaar at Freshbrook Community Car Boot Sale - 10a.m. - Noon. Centre, 10.00a.m.-12 noon.

Freinds of Freshbrook School in the 19th Table Top Sale school car park. Boots: £3 & £4 from in aid of Greendown Woodcraft Folk, 872450.

Community Room, Freshbrook Christmas Bazaar - 2p.m. in the School, 10.00a.m.-2.00p.m.

Community Centre. West Swindon 19th West Swindon Family Project Christmas Bazaar, Freshbrook Family Project.

Father Christmas, crafts, games, Community Centre,2.00p.m.

19th Friends of Freshbrook School books. Ad: lop, children free.

Car Boot Sale, School Car Park, 10.00a.m.-12 noon.

26th November Christmas Bazaar by the 21st Link Centre Open Forum, Freshbrook Village Group in the 730p.m. Put your points of view community centre - 2p.m. - 430p.m. about the running of the Centre to Santa's grotto, stalls, refreshments. councillors and officers of Thamesdown.

Found - Little purse with money in it, 23rd 50-50 sale, Upper Shaw Farm, on Roughmoor Way, near Mid- l Oa. m.-12 noon. dleleaze roundabout. Tel: 872412.

26th Christmas Bazaar by FreshWanted - Cindy Dolls House in good brook Village Group, Freshbrook Vilcondition. Tel: 872787. lage Centre, 2.00p.m.-4.30p.m.

Wanted - Brownie Uniform for small 26th Christmas Bazaar, St Peter's 8 yr. old & Brownie Uniform to fit 10/ Church 2.00p.m.-5.00p.m.

11 yr. old. Tel: 872089 December Wanted - Rollerboots Size 12 or 13. 3rd Thamesdown Pre-School PlayTel: 872282 groups Association Christmas Fayre, 1 la.m.-2p.m., Link Centre

Saturday 12th November

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The Asian Women and Toddlers Group which meets in the Community Suite at the Link Centre are holding a Diwali Festival of Lights Celebration on 8th November, from 12 noon to 3p.m.

They would like other Asian women with their children who do not know about the group to join them for refreshments and Car-baa dancing.

Traditional dress is requested. The cost is 50p for adults, children are free.

Friendly, alert 10 month old baby needs someone caring to help her to discover the world. 9am-3pm approx. Mon-Fri. Tel: 612558

Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs. White, Freshbrook

THE REFERENCE PAGE

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LOCAL COUNCILLORS TOOTHILL, WESTLEA, SHAW & ROUGHMOOR/SPARCELLS

HILLIER

Thamesdown Borough Council Tony Free, Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Tel: 619834 Ricky Midwinter, 4 Anglesey Close, Westlea. Tel: 873537 Peter Stoddart, 9 Fairlawn, Liden. Tel: 692812 Surgeries for Free & Midwinter: Friday 6pm-7pm, Community Room, Toothill School.

Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, 1 The Holbeins, Grange Park. Tel:875129

55 Victoria Road Swindon Tel: 22797

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Thamesdown Borough Council Simon Cordon, 16 Branksome Road, Moreden. Tel: 617723 Martin Leighfield, 112 Reddliffe Street, Swindon. Tel: 692305 Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317 Surgeries for Leighfield & Pixton: Wednesday 7pm-7.30pm, Community Room, Freshbrook School.

Wiltshire County Council Simon Cordon - as above.

Pharmacies •Ashington Way Pharmacy: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm; Sat 8.30am-12noon; Sun 11.30am-12.30pm Tel: 616840. *Coopers, West Swindon Centre: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm; Fri 9am-9pm; Sat 9am-6pm Tel: 872033.

•G.K. Chemists, Shaw Village Centre: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9am-6.30pm; Thurs. 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9atn-5pm. Closed 1-2pm. Tel: 886076.

•Ralph Palmer Pharmacy, 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm &2-6pm; Sat 9am-12noon. Tel: 512063.

•The Village Pharmacy, Freshbrook Village Centre: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm & 2.15-7pm; Sat 9am-12.30pni Tel: 870226.

Dentists • Brendan Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 873044. *Mrs. Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340.

WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINTS Welfare Benefits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice *West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Mon, Wed & Fri 10am-12noon.

•Toothill Advice Point, Toothill Community Centre. Tues. 10am-12noon, Thurs. 1p.m. - 3p.m.

COUNCIL HOUSING A Housing Advice Service is available to tenants of houses rented from Thamesdown Borough Council. Tuesday 2pm4.20pm at Toothill Community Centre.

THE CHURCH

Anglican-Methodist-U.R.0-Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221.

Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Sec: D. Linnecar Tel: 872884.

The Bridge Christian Fellowship. John Gibson. Tel: 27250.

St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel: 874400.

Jamal Mohammadia Prayer Group. Mr. Khan Tel:481986

252 Whitworth Road Swindon Tel: 22145

A, FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED

THAM ES WOOD VETERINARY CLINIC

Arrivals Officer: Pam Pixton. She will visit you and provide advice and an information booklet about community facilities. Tel: 695317.

Newcomers Coffee Morning: Tuesday 10.30am-12noon In the Community Suite, Link Centre.

LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES

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PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24-hour personal service throughout the year

INFORMATION FOR NEW ARRIVALS TO WEST SWINDON

Doctors *Doctors Ketkar, Matheson, Nixon, Flowers, Holden, Chippendale, & Swinyard, Ashington House, Ashington Way, Westlea. Tel: 614840. *Doctor G. Reddy, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. *Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894.

•Doctor Kandiah, 1 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253.

Health Visitor Team, 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill.

Tel: 642133/610459.

Baby Clinics: Mon 1.30-4pm 5 Deerhurst Way, Toothill.

Wed 10-12noon Shaw Community Centre.

Wed 2-4pm Greendown School, Grange Park.

Thurs 2-4pm Freshbrook Community Centre.

Fri 2-4pm Upper Shaw Farm, Shaw Ridge.

Family Planning: Free clinics every Wednesday 6-8pm. 5 Deerhurst Way. No appointment necessary. Cervical Smear Tests.

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FUNERAL SERVICE LTD

Nicholas Hartley M.A., Vet M.B., M.R.C.V.S.

Veterinary Surgeon 62-64 Purton Road, Swindon. Tel: (0793)26780 Mon.-Fri: 9.00-1 0.00am. 2.00-3.00pm. 5.30-6.30pm.

Saturday: 9.00-11 .00am.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE TEL: (0793)26780 Now open at Cavendish Square Mon.-Fri: 9.00-10.00am. 5.30-6.30pm.

Saturday: 2.00-3.00pm.

Appointments available if required.

Tel: 511267

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Ashington Way Pharmacy / /1

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Westlea, Swindon Tel: 616840 Mon-Fri. 8.30-6.00pm; Sat. 8.30-12.00.

Sun. 11.30am-1230'm

Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 26601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602

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•WESTMEAD DRIVE, WESTLEA, SWINDON TEL (0793)641643 -

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PARTS & ACCESSORIES TRY US FIRST FOR ALL THESE ITEMS FOR ALL POPULAR MAKES OF CAR "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE IF IT'S NOT HERE, IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS" OILS, LUBRICANTS & ADDITIVES BATTERIES WITH 3 YEAR WARRANTIES ALL LUCAS ELECTRICAL PARTS INCLUDING STARTERS, ALTERNATORS, HEADLIGHTS, IGNITION PARTS, BULBS & FUSES. RADIATORS; WIPER BLADES OIL AND AIR FILTERS STEERING & SUSPENSION PARTS OIL AND WATER PUMPS SHOCK ABSO PIERS; BRAKE PARTS FAN BELTS; GASKETS PETROL PUMPS ACCELERATOR & CLUTCH CABLES EXHAUST PIPES; TYRES "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE" IF IT'S NOT HERE, IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS