November 1998 Swindon Link

THE

No. 198 • November 1998 • Circulation 18,000

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Always at your convenience 2, 4, 6 tonne skips

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Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park & North Swindon

Phone now on Swindon (01793) 496703

the positive newsforce in West and North Swindon and the swividori wide what's on guide

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At the end of 1978, residents of Toothill received an unnamed newsletter. Only six hundred were printed because that was the number of houses occupied in what was then called the 'western expansion area'.

Twenty thousand copies of The Link are now printed monthly, with 18,000 distributed door to door in West and North Swindon.

Our January edition will be a special one, to celebrate two decades in print.

Thanks to Swindon's Giant Card Company, we're able to send out a big greeting. More on page 2.

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These ex-pupils from Windmill Hill School have the unique honour of being the first living people to have had their work shown at the National Gallery. And their art has been turned into Christmas cards.

Holding up enlargements of the cards and items from the National Gallery exhibition rear from left, Richard Hooper, Claire Powell Laura Silcox Front Steven Meredith, Becky Viveash, Gurjeet Khaira. Story on page 2.

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The Link Magazine • November 1998

Gallery Christmas cards could be collectors items Christmas cards produced by the National Gallery in London from artwork by Windmill Hill school pupils are unique for a number of reasons. The school was the first to have an exhibition in the gallery, between November 1995 and February 1996, and the youngsters are the first ever living artists to have their work displayed there.

Windmill Hill's relationship with the National Gallery started in early 1995 when deputy headteacher Mark Hazzard attended a course on encouraging

children to look at paintings as a starting point for writing, art and craft work. Enthused he returned to school and the children's creativity flowed forth. "We first

looked at the Wilton Dyptch and experimented with a variety of painting techniques, such as mixing egg yolk with powder paint, to achieve a similar effect. Because it

The Link -20 years. Giant Card Company completes one The Link has been going for nearly 20 years and our January edition turbulent world of publishing.

The magazine has appeared in HAppy several forms over the years, first as a six weekly newsletter to West NNIVIILSAR Swindon, then a professionally produced magazine, increasing its target area as the west grew, and taking in North Swindon nearly four years ago. We'll be looking back over the years, publishing comments about the magazine and printing photographs that have CONGRATULATIONS never been used.

20 YEARS If you can remind us of signifiFROM EVERYONE T THE GIANT CAROCO... cant events covered in The Link, have interesting memories about IN Ont (am to, the magazine, or would like to extel: 0I793 092929 press a comment about it, drop us our anniversary. She first started a line, or give us a call.

Joanna McKinley who runs the advertising in The Link a year ago Giant Card Company is the first to to launch her new business, unhelp us celebrate by producing one sure of how it would go. But the of her really big cards proclaiming Giant Card Company must be one

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will celebrate this success in the of the fastest ever business take-offs.

Taking an apparently simple idea of hiring out huge greetings cards, Joanna now has 11 franchisees around the UK. "1 saw this large board saying Happy Birthday in Florida last year," said Swindon born Joanna. "It just struck me as such a great idea - I could do that. You see handmade signs on roundabouts; they're not very striking and the council says they are safety hazard.

"The Giant Card Company hires out a six foot by four foot card and installs it early in the morning. It's a great surprise for a birthday or anniversary."

Joanna was featured in the Sunday Times on 18 October and expected to meet twenty more potential franchisees at the big franchise exhibition at the NEC over that weekend. "It's been a mad year. I never thought of selling the idea, but it has really taken off."

To hire a giant card to celebrate a special event, give Joanna a call on 692929.

was painted in the fourteenth century, there is some damage and the children were able to see how the layers had been built up."

Later that year Mark invited Gallery staff to look at the children's work. They immediately asked the school to mount an exhibition using the title of the original teacher's course: "Take One Picture."

Visits to the National Gallery now take place each year. The May Link featured children studying the newly restored painting, The Ambassadors by Holbein.

The young artists, brought together for our front page, are now in year 10 at various secondary schools. Steven Meredith, at Ridgeway School, said, "It's different.

Not everybody has their work displayed in the National Gallery."

Greendown student Gurjeet Khaira said he was really surprised that primary school artwork was being used on a greeting card.

Greendown colleague Becky Viveash, who has had two of her pictures turned into cards, said, "it's lovely to think of your work being sent around the world with Christmas greetings."

The Christmas cards are available from Windmill Hill School, Uxbridge Road, Freshbrook at £3.50 per pack of 6 cards.

To order by post, enclose a 31p stamped addressed envelope and a cheque made out to Windmill Hill Primary School.

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Reliable people are needed to distribute The Link and leaflets house to house in the following areas: Freshbrook, Greenmeadow, Haydon Wick, Middleleaze, Shaw, Peatmoor (Foxfields), Woodhall Park, The Prinnells For details of rounds and payment, call Brian Holden at BHL on 723745

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118 link MituiitP. Published by West Swindon Publications Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 713D Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189

Copy date for December edition: 13 November Published: 20 November Copy for January: 10 December

'The Link was first published West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a Editorial: Roger Ogle competition to name the leisure Publisher/Editor centre in 1984. Distribution in North Apple Macintosh design & layout Swindon commenced in January Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol 1994."

e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • November 1998

Name for new multi-million pound heritage centre LOOSE ENDS Work on Swindon's Lilmillion Railway Heritage Centre starts next month with completion scheduled for Spring 2000.

Located in part of the original GWR workshops, begun in 1841, adjacent to the main railway line, the centre will be a major focus for millennium celebrations.

Funded by an £8 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant, £1 million from Swindon Borough Council, and the rest from local business, 'Steam - The Museum of the Great Western Railway' will transcend conventional ideas of a museum.

Visitors will be offered interactive, hands-on, state-of-the-art attractions which will celebrate both

the machinery built in Swindon and the huge numbers of people who worked 'inside' the GWR works.

Displays will feature educational exhibits, audio-visual shows, computer graphics and multimedia presentations, alongside locomotives, such as the huge King George V, and rolling stock.

To be found next to the Great Western Designer Village, the heritage centre will quickly become one of the major tourist attractions of its kind in the country.

Mechanics Institute for sale

What's to happen to another major, but derelict, feature of the town's heritage. The New Mechanics Institute Preservation Trust holds a meeting about next steps. Seepage 5.

Who was the first railway workers doctor?

Link reader Sheila Povey disputes an article in the October magazine on page 42.

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The Link Magazine • November 1998

Parade launches Christmas shopping season Christmas shopping in Swindon is going to be an exciting experience once again this year with a whole host of festivities being lined up in the Swindon Christmas Parade. You will also be able to enjoy entertainment in the town centre on Thursdays and Sundays throughout the Christmas period.

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The parade will be led by the Honda Solar car followed by Father Christmas, on a carriage pulled by ponies, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, marching bands, costumed dancers, street theatre, a circus family, vintage cars and trucks.

Also performing are Irish dancers, children from the Tanwood School of Dance, Swindon Football Club cheerleaders, Pudsey Bear and the Brunel Monkey to

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

name but a few.

The parade starts at lOam on Sunday 15 November, at the TownHall.

It will go along Regent Street before splitting off down Canal Walk and The Parade. There will be street entertainment throughout the day for everyone to enjoy.

TV presenter, Tim Vincent, right, will switch on the Christmas lights on Thursday 12 November at 6pm, in the Brunel shopping centre.

Can you help the parade go smoothly?

Swindon Town Centre Management are currently looking for responsible volunteer marshalls to line the parade route. If you can help please contact Anne Parsons on 434053 or Sally Barker on 854030.

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Christmas Lights Switch on

The Grand Christmas Parade

Tim Vincent and a whole host of celebrities from the Wyvern Theatres pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, will be switching on Swindon Town Centre's lights on Thursday, 12th November at 6pm in The Brunel Shopping Centre between Boots and Marks & Spencer.

The wonderful Grand Christmas Parade through the Town Centre will be taking place on Sunday, 15th November at lOam. The Grand Christmas Parade will include many exciting performers, bands, vintage cars, dancers and floats, The Honda Solar Car replica,Santa in his fairytale carriage plus much, much more!

Swindon Cares Evening This special event has been organised for all those with mobility challenges to ensure a fun evening of late night shopping until 9pm in conjunction with Shopmobility on Thursday 17th November from 6pm.

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To enhance the Christmas spirit there is an array of exciting entertainment every Thursday and Sunday from 15th November until Christmas Day in Swindon Town Centre

Swindon Town Centre, bringing you a Christmas to remember!

The Link Magazine • November 1998

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Life saving helicopter needs public cash support The joint police ambulance helicopter is a familiar sight over Swindon skies. And noisy it is too.

Although not officially launched until mid-December, in November a brand new machine - the Boeing Explorer - will appear, painted in standard yellow and blue air support colours.

The bulk of the 4,000 missions £800,000 a year cost to have been flown. operate the machine The helicopter is met by the police can be scrambled service. The Wiltshire in response to an Air Ambulance has to emergency call to meet their contribureach any part of Wiltshire within tion of £160,000.

8 to 12 minutes.

Many people, seeThe new heliing the air ambulance copter, the first of flying overhead, asits kind in this sume that itis paid for country, will enby public money. In The Boeing Explorer, soon to he seen over Swindon able an even fact each year a quar- painted in yellow and blue more effective reter of the cost has to be raised by the generosity of Wiltshire people through sponse. As well as being twice as fast as its the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal. predecessor, the Bolkow 105, it is ten times quieter. It also has 80% more cabin space.

"Many have helped us, as individuals or through If your group can help with fund-raising or their groups," says Volunteer Office Administrator would like to spend an evening visiting the air Frank Swan. "Your future support is essential." ambulance at its Devizes base, contact Richard Since the service started in 1990, more than 800 Brocklehurst on 01249 443939. people have been airlifted to hospital and almost

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Call to important Mechanics meeting A detailed agenda and details of plans and will welcome all supthe nomination and election of porters to the meeting.

Membership of the Trust costs trustees will be published in the just £1 and entitles you to vote at Evening Advertiser on 5 November the meeting. Fill in the application form below and join today.

At the meeting the Trust will propose to change its status to that of a Community Development Trust. It will report on progress to date and discuss the way forward.

There will be information on display before the meeting.

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The New Mechanics Institution Preservation Trust is inviting anyone who lives or works in Swindon to attend its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 19 November, 7pm, in the Main Hall at Swindon College The future of the near derelict building in the town centre is now at a critical stage. Once the cultural and social centre of the railway works, the Mechanics' Preservation Trust wants to restore the building as an arts and community centre for use by Swindonians in the 21st Century.

In October the present owners put the building up for sale. The Trust wants to demonstrate it has the support of local people for its

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Book-keeping Self-assessment forms Tel: 01793 706289 Mobile: 0411 862264

Mechanics offers historical Christmas gift Fire & Steel, a 40 minute video showing life as it used to be lived by Swindon's railway workers, has been re-issued to raise funds for New Mechanics Institution Preservation Trust.

The inclusion of 1983 The film made by Martin footage of 'King George Parry features retired V' steaming through the railworkers describing life Wiltshire countryside 'inside,' striking images of highlights what it was all the town and the works. about.

The video is an eye-opener To order by post, send for anyone who did not Locomotive; cheques for £11 (inclu. know Swindon in its rail- Building At SW,ndon Works way heyday. It is more than p&p) payable to 'The New a bit of a tug at the heartstrings for Mechanics Institution Preservation those who did.

Trust Ltd' to the address below.

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as Emprror, Jack & Cl,atrrberlair,

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Use this form to make a donation and to join the New Mechanics' Institution Preservation Trust Limited (Registered Charity No 10461)

Name: with

Address:

1111 F%NWOOI)

Postcode:

l)-\NC1RS

Tel:

I enclose: LII £5 for membership and newsletter subscription Li A donation of £ LI £1 for membership Only.

Make cheques payable to 'The New Mechanics Institution Preservation Trust Ltd and send to: Suite 17, Newburn Centre, Newbum Crescent, Swindon SN1 5E5.

Tel/fax/ans: (017931 520592 L -

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Bright orange carrots, exotic fresh fruits, designer Italian bread and dollops of mushroom pate were on the mid-morning menu at Brook Field School on 13 October to launch a project on healthy eating.

By Christmas, year 5 pupils will have agreed the contents for five lunch boxes which are interesting and healthy to eat.

Class teachers Jeanette Miller

and Debbie Shaw invited David Williamson from Swindon Education 2000 and Health Advisory Teacher Jennie Harmiston to launch the project by introducing

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children to new foods. Chunks of fruit and vegetables and slivers of cooked meat were served up and impressions recorded.

"We will have visits from a nutritionist, a school nurse and a food company rep.," said teacher Debbie Shaw. "The children will also be asked to look closely at what they eat at home and what different foods do for you."

Jeanette Miller said maths will be used to survey the most popular foods and posters will be designed to promote healthy eating.

Children will write a newspaper and stories will be featured on the school's internet site.

"By the end of the project, we will have designed our ideal healthy lunch box for each school day."

Above: Scott Rivers takes a nervous nibble at a mango and Lizzie Archer tries a piece of star fruit, with teacher Debbie Show Right: David Williamson of Education 2000 cuts up fruit and veg for young servers to take round the classroom, from left, Kirandeep Bhui, Charles Salmon, Matthew Record, Elizabeth Addis

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Road opens ahead of schedule The disruption and dangers to people living in Sparcells are over sooner than expected. The new £270,000 pedestrian bridge over Mead Way has been installed and the road is expected to be open in the week beginning 26 October.

Sparcells children should be safe from diverted traffic during half term

It is the first bridge of its kind to be constructed by Swindon Borough Council which first predicted that it would take until early December to complete the job.

Protests by residents, reported exclusively in the September Link, were successful in having the building programme reduced in length.

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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Harvest collection goes to Bangladesh street children Freshbrook School's harvest festival collection on 2 October was donated to a project for street children in Bangladesh after a suggestion from The Link.

Abbey Meads resident Yasmin Church. A total of £171.76 was Torr contacted us to seek publicity raised. for her fund raising efforts and we On page 16 Yasmin describes told the school what she is trying the project, and there are details of to do. They invited her to speak at a sponsored workout at Greenthe harvest assembly in Freshbrook down School on 11 November.

Yasmin, with,from left, Terry Syl vester,Jake Rodney, EminaMilson, Samantha Peat, Rachel Randell, lake Cook, Daniel Greener

Meet your beat PC Beat officer PC Rob Mortimer is available to meet residents at Freshbrook Community Centre.

Shift patterns prevent regular surgery times, but if you see his helmet in the window, do drop in.

PC Mortimer is keen to develop a closer relationship with the people of Freshbrook. He can also be contacted at Westlea Police station on 528111.

If you have any community based problems, contact Bruce Elder of the Freshbrook Village Group residents' association on 872319 who will try to help you.

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Picture wins multimedia system Artististic pupil Thomas Cranley had a surprise when told he had won a computer for his school, Windmill Hill, after entering a competition during the summer holidays.

His picture of cartoon character Pluto won a £1,000 Tiny computer as part of the Sunday Fun Day initiative run by the Brunel Shopping Centre management. Thomas received family tickets to Alton Towers, Legoland and the Cotswold Wildlife Park.

Windmill School headteacher David Messenger said, "it is smashing surprise to have another computer available to the children. Thomas Cranky with Geoff Tuck of Tiny Well done Thomas for drawing Computers and Hannah Champion, Brunel Centre marketing manager such a good picture.

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Introduction to line dancing Freshbrook Community Centre Tuesdays 10 November to 8 December, 7.30pm to 1000pm For details call 764732 (then 4441) ÂŁ3 or F1.75 10 free places each night for use the following week

Drop in for coffee at cafe in community centre The cafe at Toothill Community Centre is becoming a regular social spot to meet friends during the week.

The cafe is open on Thursdays, lOam to 12 noon, when coffee, tea and biscuits are available at reasonable prices. Children are welcome.

The ladies pictured used to meet weekly at the Asda restaurant but now get together in the centre. "The tea is hotter and the pot is bigger," said Mary Pignatelli.

Volunteers are needed so that the cafe can open on more mornings. Drop in and talk to centre coordinator Annette Kennedy.

Dr Peter Swinyard & Dr Robert Forrester of the Phoenix Surgery are delighted to announce that their new surgery will shortly be built in Toothill.

New patients welcome.

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

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James Butcher Housing Association

Community worker Pam Pixton and centre coordinator Annette Kennedy serve Linda Helali, Sue Hull, Mary King and Mary Pignatelli

GP gets ready to build Toothill based doctor Peter Swinyard is looking forward to moving his practice to a purpose built surgery in April next year.

Planning permission to build was granted for the empty site at Toothill Village Centre and builders should be on site in January.

Dr Swinyard, who first opened a temporary surgery in November 1995, said, "we are delighted to provide an excellent new medical facility for the people of Toothill and surrounding areas. We will be doing all we can to retain the cosy house atmosphere we presently have at Deerhurst Way."

Dr Swinyard digs in with new partner Dr Robert Forrester

Railroad layout impresses Euro eyes Model railway enthusiast Geoff Bishop, from Toothill, was one of four British exhibitors invited to Europe's largest model railway exhibition held during October in Utrecht, Holland.

The annual four day exhibition attracts over 40,000 visitors and this year there were sixty railway layouts and 500 traders Geoff discovered his passion for model railways over 14 years ago when, following his wife's death, he spent time with friends in Philadelphia. He became fascinated by American railways and has returned regularly since then, collecting models on his travels as well as buying from dealers in the UK. The 35ft layout Geoff took to Holland depicts Union City, Nebraska, a typical mid-western switching yard. Even with the help of three supporters, it takes him two hours to set up.

Of his hobby Geoff says, "it creates your own little world. Like an artist, you make a picture, but a moving picture."

Geoff Bishop, centre, and his Union City layout with fellow modellers at the Purton Carnival earlier in the year

WESTLEA

School is environment finalist

9

Stream dipping studies for all Children in wheelchairs at Westlea Primary School will now be able to pond dip from a special platform, thanks to the efforts of parents and staff, and local business.

Grants from Thames Water and Great Western Community Forest The Westlea School Grounds funded the construction of the dipProject has been nominated Wilt- ping platform. Built by Swindon shire finalist in the 1998 Environ- Contractors, it is just outside the mental Youth Awards.

The award scheme, which covers Bristol, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire, is run by the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV). It aims to recognise the part played by young people in environmental projects and to encourage awareness of environmental and conservation issues.

Projects to turn the school grounds into an environmental study area have been going on for 14 years. Chairman of the judges Brigadier John Hemsley, congratulated the Westlea Project on their nomination after a visit to the school. "We were most impressed by the enterprise and enthusiasm displayed by the children which we felt reflected great credit on the group as a whole."

The County Awards will be presented at the Royal Bath & West of England Show in the first week of June next year when the overall regional winner will be announced.

Westlea youngsters start their stream dipping,from left, Luke Haywood, Luke Giles, Mark Mepstead, Fleur Perry, Marcus Mistry, Richard Chaney, Sarah Nobbs, Bryony Jordan. Rear, from left Cheryl Pickles of Thames Water, Westlea parent Trevor Carlton, Heather Lilley from the Great Western Community Forest team, George Walker

back gates of the school on a small stream.

Trevor Carlton, parent environmental co-ordinator, said, "Until now, children in wheelchairs

would have to sit on the nearby footpath and have other children bring them what they found. Now they can dip their nets in the stream and make discoveries for themselves."

The next project is to improve wheelchair access to a pond and marsh area. Cheryl Pickles from Thames Water, impressed by what she has seen, said, "it sounds really interesting. Thames Water will definitely be helping out."

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Cub Chris wears rare badge Environment conscious 1st Westlea Cub Scouts are celebrating on two counts.

As a pack, they are delighted to quite rare," said Akela Lesley have been involved in conserva- Franklin. "It required a lot of work tion work that helped the Westlea by Chris; well done."

School Grounds Project to their She also congratulated Westlea County Environmental Youth Award.

And pack member Christopher Carlton, 10, has just 4. gained the sought after World Conservation Badge. : The Cub Scout Award Scheme covers finding out about nature and looking after the environment in a variety of ways. In addition to Bradley Cushion, Farrell Copp and Danthese awards, Cubs can also choose iel Nicholls point out Chris Carlton's speto carry out, as a larger project, one cial badge with cub leader Lesley Franklin of the associated activity badges. School on its 'much-deserved The World Conservation badge in- award' and said that the 1st cludes nature surveys, gardening, Westlea Cub Scouts are "looking conservation, recycling and how forward to the further benefits of nature has been affected by man. the hard work that has already It involves considerable project been put in, and also to the future work and a great deal of knowl- projects that are planned for the edge. "To achieve this badge is grounds."

Property Letting & Management

Personal service from Swindon's leading rental specialists If you are seeking rented accommodation then contact our office in West Swindon District Centre, next to the Link Centre.

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Chocolate Challenge improves literacy Chocolate was the topic of conversation for 17 year 6 children who attended school for two weeks during the summer holidays.

Hreod deputy headteacher Tom The children were able to prac- vertise a chocolate product. The tice and improve their literacy winning team won a trip to Wilkes said there had been great skills at the Hreod Parkway Sum- Safeways' hi-tech kitchens to cook gains in student learning at the mer School, by learning through a their own recipe, which they summer school. "The course was variety of drama techniques, me- named the Energizer Bar. There great fun and there was 100% atdia workshops, and written and was also a successful trip to tendance each day. Improvements pictorial projects. The course was Cadburys during the fortnight. in confidence and aptitude were organised by Learning Works and The pupils' work has since been seen over the fortnight and during sponsored by Safeway at Haydon exhibited at the school and their first few weeks at our school."

At a certificate presentation Safeway.

Wick.

Parents who ran a breakfast club, evening on 7 October, Safeway Working in three teams, the youngsters were given the brief to gave tremendous support and manager Paul Walsh said he had design, market research and ad- teaching staff and year 11 pupils been impressed by the project and Anthony Green and Lee Jefferies chop- also popped in to offer support hoped that the company could be involved next year. ping nuts for the Energiser Burnt the and act as mentors.

Safeway kitchens

J.F.K

Safeway nzn;in'cr Paul Walsh presents Hreod headteacher Andrew Fleet with a plaque marking the project, with centre from left, student mentor Vicky Upton, Fil Came of Learning Works, and Eleana Fletcher, and the children who took part in the s ii ,,i nier school

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Jeans for genes cash at school Children and staff at two local primary schools discarded their uniforms and formal dress on 9 October to raise money for research and care for children suffering genetic diseases.

Pupils from Greenmeadow and Haydonleigh Schools took part in the charity appeal led by Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children. All proceeds go to projects nationwide which research into genetic disorders. These include illnesses such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell and muscular dystrophy.

There was excellent support for the day at both schools.

Greenmeadow School had a special assembly and raised a total of £165.

Haydonleigh school pupils raised £330.

Jeans for cash at Greenmeadow School, from left, Daniel rew, Kirsty Dalryin pie, Richard Fullerton, Kathy Chilton, Allanah Skuse, Chol •.... & a 'mes

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

New north plans on display next month Revised plans for the development of the remaining 6,000 houses and be put in front of the public in early December.

The development east of Lady and open space provision. PlanLane was stopped in February ners at Swindon Borough Council when the Government reversed a will also have the chance to con1992 decision and demanded an sider the proposals for the Environmental Statement on the developement. impact of the development.

The council is holding a public The Statement will address both exhibition at the Haydon Wick highway and environmental issues Parish Council offices in the week including ecology, nature con- beginning 7 December. servation, archaeology, drainage Martin Trewhella, Swindon -

11

North Swindon security weekend

ommercial sites at Haydon 3 will

Council group planning officer Swindon police are holding an commented, "the original agreed information weekend aimed at North Swindon residents.

Master Plan is being fine tuned and improved, rather than draTurn to page 21 for details. matically changed. Following the public exhibition and consultation Coffee, Cakes with statutory bodies, it is hoped to bring the planning application & Crafts Fair and all comments received before St John's Church, Haydon Wick the Borough Council's developSaturday 14 November ment control sub-committee for Drop by between 1 Dam 2pm determination in the Spring."

If approved by the Council, start Proceeds to the Childrens' Society -

Bridge repair planned

After two years of closure, there could an end in sight to the saga of of the next phase of development street kids survival kit project the footbridge over Thamesdown Drive, between St Andrew's Ridge could start in late 1999. and Abbey Meads village centre which is due to open in March. rate issue.

The school, on the Alan Moore for site adjacent site is due to engineers Trench Faropen in September Babies £5.00 • Families £10.00* row said tests and next year and Make-overs only 05.00 evaluations have Haydon Wick Parish taken place, and opCouncil is concerned Milk Also Weddings Video services tions are being put beabout the number of Commercial Transfer cine to video fore Swindon Borpedestrians who will Restoration services Animal portraits ough Council, which need to cross the Make someone smile this Christmas will eventually have road. TheyhavewritChoose Insight and get it right to adopt the bridge. ten to Swindon "The main span will Council calling for a INSIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY temporary crossing to be provided. have to be replaced," he said. 'We Studio 202 Rodbourne Road However, the Haydon Develop- hope to have agreement with SwinRodbourne, Swindon ment Company has now agreed to don soon; things are definitely Tel: 01793 512432 pay for repairs and pursue legal moving forward to sort the probissues of responsibility as a sepa- lems out."

Portrait sitting only 2

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Scouts call first meeting A group of enthusiastic parents have joined forces to start up a Beaver Scout group in November.

Boys and girls aged 6 to 8 years should call Dave Marshall on can take part in creative and con- 701267. structive play, group activities and Girls groups start games, as well as work towards a Abbey Meads now has successful variety of badges. The first meet- and well-attended Rainbow and ing will be on Monday 9 Novem- Brownie groups. ber at 530pm in the Haydon CenThe 1st Abbey Meads Rainbows tre. meets on Tuesdays 6pm to 7pm at Dave Marshall, organiser said the Haydon Centre and the 1st "Parent support and funding in Abbey Meads Brownies meet at the first year will be key to the the same time on Thursdays. success of the group."

For Rainbow information, call Parents with boys and girls to Tracey Fraser on 701818. For join a cub pack for 8 to 10 year olds Brownies, contact Helen Matthews and scouts for 10 to 15 year olds, on 706394.

S 1T4:JP1 LOOK and LISTEN before you commit yourself to any major home improvement. New windows, doors and especially a new conservatory can transform your home... . : 1 CIIECRJJST. but it's worth using this simple checklist: O CHOICE,.Are they good range of designs and various -

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There was a disappointing turnout to the annual meeting on 23 September. A new treasurer was appointed but the existing committee members have remained the same. The main issue of the meeting was a proposal to reduce the boundaries covered by the Association.

Chairman, Ian Dobie, said the own Association. area of interest could be: iii. Abbey Meads with Ash Brake i. Abbey Meads on its own. There as the latter area is relatively small, is still a lot of building land left will not have its own village centre and the association will have a and needs to be covered. large area to cover.

A straw poll at the annual meeting ii. Abbey Meads with Blunsdon favoured the third option. It was Ridge. This is the original area agreed the existing Association covered by the Association. How- would conduct a survey of house ever the Ridge is to have its own numbers and ask members to put village centre and could form its it to the vote.

jfJ

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Association boundaries considered

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Now is a good time to think about making your own Christmas cakes and puddings. We have a wide range of books, videos, cassettes and information with plenty of ideas for baking, plus seasonal crafts and decorations. Even if you don't have time to make your own, they are great for inspiration and putting you in the festive mood.

If the title you want is not in the library, then put in a request for a book, CD, videos or cassettes for just 75p, as long as the item is in stock in Swindon. If an item is not available in a borough library, then the Inter Library Loan scheme will seek out your request elsewhere.

For parents who have difficul-

ties helping their children with schoolwork, reading or writing, a class, Read and Write Together, run by Swindon College is held at West Swindon library on Mondays, 930am to 1130am during term time. The library is closed at this time so there is a quiet atmosphere for students to study, with the added benefit of all the library stock for reference. For more information contact Pam Smith at Swindon College on 498468.

Our regular story time session on Friday mornings is proving more and more popular. To join in the fun, come into the library between 1030am and 11am.

For more information, contact West Swindon library on 465555.

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Geoffrey Archer Fire Hawk. Barney Packer, working for the Intelligence Services in Baghdad, is tipped off about a terrorist plan to attack Washington, then he is arrested for spying.

Jessica Stirling Prized possessions.

Lizzie Conway has clawed her way out of the worst slums of the Gorbals, all for the sake of her three daughters, her prized possessions.

She would do anything to protect Harry Bowling When the pedlar Polly, Babs and poor deaf Rosie. called. When Nell Bailey is Exhibition: Swindon Artists Sociwounded in a flying bomb attack, ety will be displaying work by her eldest daughter, Josie, holds members from 10 to 20 November the family together. Despite her during library opening hours. responsibilities and the difficulties of war, Josie imagines a bright Pre-school places future with the man she loves.

Catherine Cookson The blind years. Link & Learn Playgroup at the Bridget Gether's parents are killed Link Centre has places every mornin the Blitz and she has lived with ing for children aged from 2 years the Overmeers in Northumbria to five. For details, call Dawn Dolsince she was a child. An encoun- phin on 886680. ter with the son of a neighbouring Youngsters from Link & Learn on a recent visit to Pizza Hut farmer opens her eyes to the fact that she has been manipulated into an unwanted marriage with the Overmeers son Laurence.

John Francome Safe bet. When jockey Mike Powell is killed, his friend, Jed Harvard, investigates.

His suspicions are raised when Mike's will is read and an unknown relative inherits his entire estate.

John Nichol Exclusion zone. The exclusion zone, 2000 miles around the Falkland Islands, is patrolled by the 1435 flight. An increase in nationalism in Argentina and the discovery of oil makes the task increasingly important. But how long can six aircraft last when a secret strike is launched by the Argentineans?

Terry Pratchett Carpa Jugulum.

Mighty Oats has not picked a good time to be a priest. He thought he'd come to Lancre for a simple religious ceremony. Now he's caught in a war between vampires and witches.

Little Hands Toddler Group for children aged 2 to 5 meets in the Sunshine Room at Westlea School on Monday mornings. There is currently a small waiting list.

To join, call 876474.

Windmill Bouncers Toddler Group meets in the family room at The Windmill pub at Freshbrook Village Centre on Tuesday, 930am to 11am. Newcomers to this friendly group are welcome. Call Ginette Dell on 873139 for details.

1, IF1 " ELR F OM W!HSTMINS'I HR Back in the chamber REATIVE CURTAINS Swindon South MP Julia Drown returns to Parliament and gets down to business MPs are returning to Westminster for another session of legislation.

Certain to be in the programme for the next year is the abolition of hereditary peers in the House of Lords. The Labour Party believes that no one should have the right to make laws that govern the rest of the country just by an accident of birth. The Lords will be a better place without the hereditaries, even if it will still have a Tory majority.

Some people say we should have a complete programme of change for the House of Lords before ending the right of the hereditary peers to sit and vote. But this reform will itself improve the Lords and it will be a necessary part of any change. So there is no justification for delay.

I recently had the pleasure of welcoming five students from New College and Swindon College to an open day at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. This is only the second time the Foreign Office has been opened to the public. The initiative has been taken in the spirit of open government and with the aim of encouraging students from every walk of life to consider a Foreign Office career. The building is magnificent.

I was amazed to hear that the staff still rely on telegrams and sending papers between offices by air ducts - and that they still don't have Windows on their computer systems. To the relief of the staff, modernisation is promised!

I was pleased to see that the recent crime figures for Wiltshire' again confirmed that we live in one of the safest places in the country. The Government is determined to do more to reduce crime further. In partnership with the police and car manufacturers, for example, we have agreed a practical and achievable target of reducing car crime by 30% over the next five years.

Education continues to take a high priority in the Government's programme. We are determined to improve standards and teacher morale. At the Labour Party Conference David Blunkett announced a £500 million package to cut truancies, tackle classroom disruption

and reduce unnecessary exclusions. Swindon has an impressively low number of exclusions and much credit goes both to our teachers and to parents for this.

The literacy and numeracy summer schools that were so successful this year in Swindon, as well as elsewhere in the country, will be repeated nextyear with even more schools benefiting.

Finally, I have recently had a text phone installed in my constituency office for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) has worked in conjunction with BT to provide 100 MPs' offices with a textphone.

RNID research indicates that about 68% of people who are deaf or hard of hearing feel isolated because of their deafness. The textphone will make me as an MP more accessible to those with hearing problems and can be reached by dialling the usual constituency office phone number.

If you would like to get in touch 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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MP Open Meeting Julia Drown will report on the current session of Parliament Friday 4 December, 7.30pm Freshbrook Community Centre Worsley Road, Freshbrook All are welcome to attend and put questions Christmas of yesteryear Tootleabrook WI meet in the Community Suite of the Link Centre at 7.30pm. Visitors are always welcome and admission which includes refreshment is £1. On Wednesday 18 November Mrs Clements will talk about Yesterday's Christmas Embroiders of Asia The Swindon & North Wilts Branch of the Embroiderers' Guild meet on Monday 2 November at Churchfields School, 7.30pm.

Isobel Leek will give a talk entitled Silken Strand of Central Asia.

Admission £3. Call Maggie Harris on 720097 for more details.

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13

14

The Link Magazine. November 1998

World cup footballers win compensation

New pub for adults Chris Richardson of The Village Inn at Shaw Village Inn has asked us to clarify the story in the October Link that children will no longer be welcome when the pub reopens after another refit.

He said The Village Inn has been unable to compete with the large number of family theme pubs that have opened in Swindon over the last few years. "The brewery has decided to surrender the children's certificate which means only over 14s can be admitted.

"We will be offering a more traditional pub with a relaxed atmosphere aimed at the adults in the community."

After a three-month delay, a £100 cheque from the Evening Advertiser was presented to MacMillan Cancer Care on 6 October by young West Swindon footballers 'Windmill United'.

The young team was upset in June when the Advertiser cancelled the under 12s section of their miniWorld Cup tournament, having already accepted their entry.

Parents complained bitterly and a photograph of the unhappy team appeared in the July Link.

Thanks to this publicity, the Adver eventually agreed to award the boys the £250 prize money for their section, provided £100 was

donated to charity.

The Leukaemia Research Foundation was nominated to receive their donation. Unfortunately, because the charity did not have a local representative, another recipient had to be agreed.

When it came to the presentation, it was discovered that the cheque had originally been made out to Leukaemia Research Foundation. Instead of issuing a new cheque, the Advertiser had merely crossed this out and substituted the new payee. Terry Sturrock, father of 10-year-old team organiser Shane, said they felt embarrassed and were upset by the way the ceremony was handled.

"We couldn't understand why there was no representative from the Advertiser other than their photographer at the presentation."

However, a picture of the cheque presentation was printed in the Evening Advertiser and the boys and their families are now happy to put the episode behind them.

Mr Sturrock spoke glowingly of The Link's support, saying, "if The Link hadn't covered the story we wouldn't have got anywhere."

Vilma Munro of MacMillan Cancer Care, unaware of the background to the story, said she was pleased that the boys had chosen to donate part of their winnings to her charity.

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Vilma Munro, chair of the Swindon Committee of MacMillan Cancer Relief receives a cheque from young foot ballers, left to right, Shane Sturrock, Ashley Stevens, Chris Brown, James King-Adams, Jonathan Humphries, Tom Mapstone. Rear, Maria and Terry Sturrock

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Jumping for joy: from left ,Kaylee Maisey, Katrina Campbell, Cassandra Hiller-Bowden, Sarah Lewis Four young trampolinists are celebrating their selection to the Wiltshire under 13s trampoline squad, the first time their club have entered a competition in ten years.

The youngsters pictured above ally pleased that the girls were so are members of Springs Trampo- successful the first time they were line Club for 6 to sixteen year olds put forward for selection." which meets at Greendown School.

Springs moved from Link CenCoach Joanna Miller said the tre to Greendown in September club had only formed a competitive and now meets on Tuesday and group earlier in the year with a Thursday evenings. view to developing excellence To find out more, call Lynne amongst the members. "We are re- Plant on 873393.

State school skiiers are top team Three skiiers from Bradon Forest School won the English schools under 16s mixed team dry slope championships on 11 October the only state school in the competition.

Having All-England champions Daniel, 11, and Michelle, 13, Palmer helped and they were assisted by year 10 colleague, George Castles.

PE teacher Sarah Evans described the performance as 'brilliant.'

-

Triathlete says thanks to sponsors Trainee teacher Lucy Newman from Woodhall Park would like to thank the companies which backed her bid to win a medal at the world triathlete championships in Switzerland at the end of August.

Swindon companies Intel, Brown Brothers Duco, WH Smith and the Haydon Development Company helped her meet the £700 cost of representing Britain.

Lucy was the sixth Briton home and 30th in the 20 to 24 age group. "It was my first world championship and I was a bit daunted," she said. "I have another two years in the group, so the experience was good preparation for future events at this level, so long as I can raise the sponsorship. The help I received this year was wonderful."

Lucy Newman with Haydon Development Company site manager David Trees

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16

The Link Magazine • November 1998

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Charity aerobics hour with Bodies by Design in aid of the Aparajeyo street children project Wednesday ii November, rpm, Greendown School Gym, £3.50 Beginners session. All welcome to work out for a good cause.

Doing something to help Abbey Meads resident Yasmin Torr spent three months in Bangladesh this summer working with a street kids project. She has been inspired to raise money for relief supplies before returning in early November. Here she describes her experience and appeals for help.

Everyone has seen the recent news reports of extreme floods in Bangladesh. Added to the poverty, unemployment and a regressive economy, it is a country in crisis.

A normal monsoon would leave a third of Bangladesh under water; people prepare for this by moving their cattle to higher ground and building above expected flood levels.

This year, two thirds of the country was flooded.

The waters are now receding leaving behind many problems. Homes and belongings have been lost, livestock drowned and the threat of diseases even greater.

Stagnant water is perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and malaria is now prevalent in the big cities. Aid agencies are predicting famine early next year.

Whilst in the capital Dhaka, I worked at a street kids project called 'Aparajeyo', meaning 'undefeated' in Bangla. It offers care and protection to vulnerable children who live in the slums and on the street through a range of critical services designed to improve their chances of survival. They

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provide shelter, meals and showers to children who live in extreme poverty. Medical attention is also given when needed.

Aparajeyo's efforts impressed me more than any other project! visited as every penny received is used to the benefit of around 5,000 children. Unlike others it is free of political involvement or religious or ethnic bias.

Due to the increase in illness, Aparajeyo's medical supplies have almost run out, which is why I'm trying to raise £5,000 to buy more.

I have already approached several pharmaceutical companies asking for donations of short-dated stock.

Practical help like buying medicines will make a real difference to a child's life. It costs £2.50 to visit a doctor in Bangladesh and the projectmustfind that money themselves. Hopefully we can help to make the children's lives easier.

If you'd like to donate to the appeal, please make your cheque payable to 'Aparajeyo Street Kids Project' and send it to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD

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FIREWORK SPECTACULAR at Lydiard Country Park Saturday 7 November Including 'Over the Top' Motorcycle stunt display team

Bonfire, display team, fireworks from 6pm

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

Beatles make comeback in all but reality Imagine the fab four back in Swindon, they played here in 1963. On 20 November, we have the next best thing when the Bootleg Beatles arrive at the Oasis Leisure Centre on the second night of their ninth annual UK tour.

The Bootlegs, who have now been together longer than the original mop tops, put on an incredibly, authentic show and go to great lengths to recreate the 60s sounds, from wearing outfits designed by the Beatles tailors to playing original instuments and amplifiers.

This year's show includes five scene and costume changes which capture the different periods in the life of the original pioneers of British pop.

But the feature that is so fantastic is the recreation of the songs, including the use of a brass ensemble and 10 piece orchestra for the songs which, at the time, were said to be too difficult to play live.

A new audio-visual presentation starts off the show, setting the historical scene for the many who are too young, or cannot remember those days. Whatever your age or musical inclinations, the Bootleg Beatles should not be missed. It's great family entertainment.

Tickets are £14 and £12 from the Oasis Leisure Centre. Credit card line: 445401.

Adult £3, Children /concessions £2 Family (2+2) £8 only Available only in advance from 873575 or 771493.

Please leave your own fireworks and sparklers at home Organised by 1st Purton & Lydiard Scout Group

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Answer the question: how many people play in the Bootleg Beatles orchestra?

Replies to The Link (BB Comp), address on page 2, by 13 November.

Bonfire and fireworks - where to find the Brook Field School, Cartwright Drive, Shaw Thursday 5 November, Gates open 530pm, fireworks 6.30p Barbecue, refreshments, fairground rides, attractions Tickets in advance: adult £1.50, children SOp, family £4 On the gate, adult £2, children SOp, family £5 Westlea School, Langstone Way Thursday 5 November, 630pm. Refreshments from 5.45pm Firework display organised by professionals Admission: children £1, adults £2.50 Lydiard Country Park organised by 1st Purton & L d Scd'Group Saturday 7 November. Bonfire, 'Over the T( le stt Aoi display team and fireworks from 6pm Adult £3, children/concessions £2. Family (2+2) tickets £8. in advance only from 873575 or 771493.

Firework Night - Oliver Tomkins School, Beaumaris Road, TOthiIl Friday 13 November. Doors open 6pm, display starts 630pm Adults £2.50, children £1.50, family ticket (2 adults, 4 children) £6.

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day 1 November Festival of Remembrance Wyvern, 630pm. £7 Monday 2 November Art club Start of 6 sessions, Artyfacts Children's Art Club for 812 yr olds. Arts Centre, 330pm 530pm. £22.50 for 6 weeks Music The Australian Pink Floyd.

Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50 Tuesday 3 November Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy Club - Mark Maier, Justin Lee Collins, David Jones and open mics. Mackenzie's, Old Town, doors 745pm, show 845pm. £4 Wednesday 4 November to Saturday 7 November Dance Let Us Entertain You by Tanwood School of Dance. Wyvern, 7.30, Sat mat 230pm. £7 Saturday 7 November Animation club Start of 6 sessions for 8-12 yr olds. Town Hall Studios. £43 for 6 sessions, call 463210 to book

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Art training day Japanese brush painting with Yukki Yaura. Arts Centre, 1Oam-4pm. £18, concessions £15 Music Gaelic Storm: music from Titanic. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Sunday 8 November Music The Les Bruce Big Band.

Arts Centre, 730pm. £5.50, to book call 812201. Proceeds to Mencap Blue Sky Appeal.

Monday 9 November Music The Music club presents Roy Rashbrook, tenor, Angela Henkel, soprano, Richard Pearce, piano. Arts Centre, 745pm Comedy The Ultimate Fantasy Show. Wyvern, 7.45pm. £10 Tuesday 10 November Comedy Another Fine Mess presented by Post Script Theatre.

Arts Centre, 730pm. £7.50 Lecture Into Space with Patrick Moore. Wyvern, 730pm. £9 Wednesday 11 November & Thursday 12 November Drama Teechers. Wyvern, 730pm. £10.50 Wednesday 11 November to Saturday 14 November Drama Oh what a Lovely War produced by Ridgeway Theatre Company. Holy Cross Church, Chiseldon, 730pm. £5, for tickets call 741434, profits to church roof fund Thursday 12 November Animation Club Start of 6 sessions for 8-12 yr olds. Town Hall Studios. £43 for 6 sessions, call 463210 to book Friday 13 November Music Lindisfarne. Arts Centre, 8pm. £12.50 Music Rock! Roll! Remember!

Wyvern, 730pm. £8 Saturdays 14 & 21 November Art training days: Colligraphy.

Combine fine art, poetry, graphic design and prose to produce artist's books. Arts Centre, lOam 4pm. £35, concessions £30 Saturday 14 November Comedy Boothby Graffoe plus support. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Tuesday 17 November to Saturday 21 November Music Crazy For Musicals by Kentwood Choir. Wyvern, 730pm. £8.50 Wednesday 18 November to Saturday 21 November Drama A production by the Western Players. Arts Centre, 730pm.

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19

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• Fancy dress accessories - Balloons & balloon decoration service • Helium gas kits A wide range for weddings, birthdays, Christenings and parties 13 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett You've seen the movie, bought the video. Now enjoy the music of Titanic from Gaelic Storm, live at the Arts Centre: Saturday 7 November Sunday 22 November Music Raymond Froggatt in Concert. Wyvern, 730pm. £11.50 Monday 23 November Music The Fureys, Ireland's finest international folk band. Wyvern, 730pm. £10.50 Tuesday 24 November Music That'll be the Day. Wyvern, 730pm. £11.50

Paul Merton at the Wyvern on Monday 30 November

Film at the Arts Centre Tuesday 3 November, 7.45pm Twentyfourseven (15) Set on a bleak council estate in the Midlands where a bunch of unemployed teenagers kill time on the streets with drink, drugs and gang rivalry. Bob Hoskins plays a middle-aged loner who forms a boxing club to try to give both himself and the lads some purpose in life. £3.50 Wednesday 11 November, 7.45pm Temptress Moon (15) A cruel intoxicating tale of unrequited love, inflamed jealousy, self-destruction and sacrifice in early 20th Century China. SFS

presentation Wednesday 25 November & Thursday 26 November, 7.45pm Oscar and Lucinda (15) Ralph Fiennes and Cate Blanchett star in a romantic story of gambling, adventure, disaster and triumph. £3.50

Wednesday 25 November Dance Vienna Festival Ballet present Swan Lake. Wyvern, 730pm. £13 Thursday 26 November Comedy Bradley Walsh. Wyvern, 8pm. £12 Friday 27 November Music Christine Collister, a contemporary folk/blues singer. Arts Centre, 8pm. £6 Music Think Floyd - the definitive Pink Floyd experience. Wyvern, 8pm. £8.50 Saturday 28 November to Sunday 29 November Masterciass Intermediate acting skills. Arts Centre. £30, to book call 614864 Comedy Ardal O'Hanlon (Father Dougal in Father Ted). Wyvern, 8pm. £12 Sunday 29 November Music Syd Lawrence Orchestra with star vocalists. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £12 Monday 30 November Music The Music Club presents The Wessex Chamber Players with Terry Busby, clarinet. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Comedy Paul Merton in And This Is Me. Wyvern, 8pm. £14.50

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The show must goon A local amateur dramatic society may be forced to close after 40 years in production.

Can you sing, dance or act?

Would you like to be on stage or help off it? Then Highworth Amateur Dramatic Society would love to hear from you. Without new blood this year's pantomime cannot be produced and the Society may not be able to continue. The group is very friendly and rehearsals are described as 'hard work but great fun'.

Members meet on Mondays at 730pm and Thursdays at 8pm in the Silver Threads Hall, Highworth.

Come along, or phone Richard and Sally on 763514, for more details.

£19.50 per person Friday 6th November 1998, 7.30pm Menu:

Fanned Seasonal Melon served with a fresh fruit coulis Tomato & Basil Soup served with fresh cream & Croutons Chicken Supreme served with a tarragon, mushroom & white wine sauce finished with fresh cream Served with a selection of fresh market vegetables and potatoes Dark Chocolate Terrine served with a white chocolate sauce or Banoffee Pie with Chantilly cream Coffee & Mints Accommodation: £25.00 per person per night, bed & breakfast, sharing a twin/ double room, including full use of our leisure facilities, subject to availability

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Musicals now booking Chicago

A song by a couple of thirteen year oldsfromToothill has been selected as one of the six finalists in the first ever GWR fm Morning Crew Song of the Year competition.

'Hello from Space' by Lorraine Bron and Anika Boyd, whocall themselves Orion's Devil Angel's, focuses on how teenagers often feel left out of social groups.

The chorus: 'Outside looking in, where do I belong, where do I fit in.

When will life begin, I can't seem to find out where lfit in,'

sums up the song for Lorraine. "I think a lot of young people go

through a stage of feeling outside, when others leave you out, because you're a bit different, or don't want to go along with the crowd.

Westlea School Christmas Fayre Saturday 21 November, 130pm Crafts, stalls, Santa's grotto Admission 20p, children free Jumble Sale Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Saturday 21 November, 2pm 4pm Admission 25p Donations gratefully received, please call Pat Russell on 771116

THE ARTS CENTRE

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Devizes Road Swindon SN1 4BJ Box Office: (01793) 614837 Lorraine behind Anika

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FORTHCOMING ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE

Dr Dolittle London, Fri 29 Jan eve, Adult £29, child £27

Thursday 3 December, 800pm

Phantom of the Opera Bristol, Sat 16 Jan mat, £35 & Mon 22 March eve, £27

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WILDE AT HEART A fascinating look at the life and loves of Oscar Wilde

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Sunday 13 December, 730pm

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THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS

Jesus Christ Super Star, Oklahoma, Fame

To book, call: 01793 772729 or 0860 436361

Featuring Dorothy Tutin, Robert Daws (TVs Outside Edge), Derek Waring An evening of classic plays, traditional carols and popular songs

Anika said "It sometimes seems that the other people are having all the fun and you don't know how to be part of it."

The two Greendown students have been singing together for a year and have only performed live at the half termly school concerts.

The six groups will now work with a professional sound engineer to make another recording from which the song of the year will be chosen for airplay on the GWRfm Morning

Crew Christmas Appeal. A limited edition CD will be pressed by EMI. "Even if we don't win, it's really exciting to be chosen forthe finals," said Lorraine.

Calling magicians Swindon Magic Circle meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the Broadgreen Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon, 8pm.

If you are interested in learning magic tricks, escapology, illusions, balloon modeling, children's entertainment and adult close-up magic, come along and have a chat. Free admission. For more details call 693321

Great pre-Christmas outings with Thamesdown Transport Day Sat 7 Nov Sat 14 Nov Mon 16 Nov Sat 16 Nov Fri 20 Sun 22 Nov Sat 28 Nov Thurs 10 Dec Sat 12 Dec Sat 19 Dec Sat 2 Jan -

7/F__

Excursion Cardiff Cite Europe & Calais Town (By P & 0 Ferry) Weston Illuminated Carnival London Shopper Weekend shopping in Lille (By P&O Ferry) Lakeside Thurrock Weymouth Victorian Shownight London Shopper Cribbs Causeway Bristol Cinderella-on-Ice at Paignton, includes lunch -

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Pre- Christmas Fundraising Events

Depart 830am 500am 415pm 845am

Back 715pm 11.1Zpm 1145pm 800pm

Adult £8.50 £22 £6 £8

Child £7.50 £22 £6 £7

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630am 830am 330pm 845am 930am 830am

1030pm 830pm Fri 00.30 800pm 600pm 830pm

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Book at The Travel Shop, 11 Fleming Way, Swindon. Tel: 428429 or local agents

In aid of the Lydia rds Flower & Produce Society

Table Top Sale Saturday 21 November, 2pm 4pm -

Haydon Centre Children's clothes, toys, baby equipemt, household items, cakes, tombola, refreshments Admission 20p, children free In aid of Haydori Tea & Tots Group

Christmas Craft Fayre Commonweal School The Mall, Old Town Sunday 22 November, 11am 4pm Free admission Father Christmas and over 40 excellent craft stalls -

Christmas Bazaar Moredon Community Centre, The Street, Moredon Saturday 28 November, 1 p 4pm -

In aid of CALM

Christmas Bazaar Church Hall, Devizes Road Old Town Saturday 28 November, 11am 2pm Admission 20p Stalls, competitions, Father Christmas, Uncle Ron magician, refreshments -

-

In aid of Christ Church with St Mary's

Christmas Bazaar Hayden Centre Saturday 28 November, 10am Crafts, toys, plants, cakes, games, competitions, Father Christmas Admission 20p In aid of Haydon Wick Bowls Club

Christmas Fair Freshbrook Community Centre Saturday 28 November 2pm 430pm Cakes, plants, crafts, games, raffle, refreshments -

In aid of St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park

Christmas Fayre Brook Field School Friday 4 December, 530pm Fun fair, crafts and many other stalls, refreshments

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • November 1998

Christmas gifts for cyclists in aid of cancer charity Swindon's children's cancer charity CALM could be a lot richer by Christmas if a big sell off by Express Cycles is successful.

Shop owner John Mitchell has in the town and from individuals.

To find out more about CALM, 3,000 wheel discs of different sizes I hope we'll see lots of bikes and call Sue Edwards on 791470. and designs which he is selling at wheelchairs sporting the discs afa knock down price of £5. ter Christmas."

Line Dance £3 of every sale will be donated Express Cycles can be found at in aid of Nurses Helpline and Swindon to CALM, the Swindon charity 96 to 99 Manchester Road, Swin& District Osteoporosis Group which provides support to fami- don.

Saturday 7 November, 8 - 11 pm lies with children suffering canLink Centre with caller Lewis cer.

Watson of Midnight Cowboys John believes the discs will make Tickets £3.50 in advance from excellent stocking fillers for anyLink Centre, £4 on door body receiving a bike for ChristPromenade Dance Club mas or wants to add something Alternate Sundays, 3pm - 6pm different to his or her cycle. The 8 & 22 November, 6 & 20 discs also fit wheelchairs.

December, 3 January CALM chair Don Macarthur said Link Centre, Community Suite the offer was a good way of helpRock & roll, jive, American, line, ing a local cause. "As a parent run Latin American, ballroom, popular charity, we are grateful for all the John Mitchell, left, with Don and & modern sequence, old time support we can get from businesses Richard Macarthur of CALM Everyone welcome

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22

The Link Magazine. November 1998

Family literacy programme closures In the national 'Year of Reading', Swindon College has slashed its 'Read and Write Together' Courses for the Family Literacy Programme due to lack of enrolments.

Only the Monday courses at West Swindon Library and Broad Green's Caribbean Lunch Club are still running out of 13 courses planned and advertised.

John Quartley, the College's

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Head of Division for Foundation Studies, explained that student numbers had been very low for the past year. The level of Autumn enrolments- made it impossible to keep the courses going. He described the response as 'very disappointing'.

Mr Quartley said that the College hoped to offer the courses again in future. He also stressed that the opportunity does still exist for a group to approach the College if they would like a 'Read and Write Together' course.

He said, "if people want to have

College adult courses on offer Places are still available on a number of Swindon College adult education courses in November.

To book a place on any of the courses listed below, call Customer Service on Freephone 0800 731 2250.

Saturday course on 7 November at Haydon Centre

Feldenkrais Method - self awareness and improved well-being through movement, posture and breathing 10am-4pm £18 Saturday courses on 14 November at Greendown

Cloth Sculpture 10am-4pm Introduction to Goldwork Embroidery 10am-4pm Modem Upholstery 10am-4pm Getting to know your Camcorder 10am-4pm Complementary Therapy Workshop 10am-4pm Human Social Behaviour 10am-4pm Evening courses (7pm - 9pm) starting after half term (all at Greendown unless otherwise stated) Christmas Floral Arrangements starts 5 Nov

Play the Piano Learn to Sing Phone Swindon 695235

for further information

H II! 1111111 III

education of this kind, they should contact the college and we will try to find something appropriate."

Anyone wanting help with reading, writing, spelling or basic maths can contact Jill Worthington or Pat Bean at Swindon College on 498321.

Aromatherapy and the mind Homeopathy for women Homeopathy in First Aid situations Haydon Centre Shiatsu for Relaxation & Well Being Haydon Centre

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Early taste of French A Toothill based French speaker is celebrating her tenth year offering small private classes to children who are just starting, right up to A level standard.

"It's so important for children to start learning a language early," says Pascal. "They quickly pick up phrases and most importantly the accent. It gives them confidence and a very good start when they go on to secondary school."

Children attend in small groups at Pascal's home, after school, during term time.

She also teaches GCSE and A' level and runs an adult French conversation group.

Classes costs from £3.50 per hour. To find out more, call Pascal on 870549.

THERE'S MORE TO WEEKENDS THAN CHILDREN'S TV!

THEATRE EXPRESS HELPS GROWTH & DEVELOPS POTENTIAL Spring Term starts 9 January 1999 Theatre Express Performing Arts Schools & Theatre Company, has openings at its NEW performing arts school, to be based at GREENDOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL, SWINDON Our school runs on Saturdays, during term time, from 2.30pm to 530pm

Theatre Express is fun! It also helps develop: self-conJWence, self esteem, articulation, imagination, co-ordination, expression, and other important life skills Theatre Express training is designed for 5 to 16 year olds. They come together in three age groups (maximum of 16 per group), working for one hour with experienced tutors in each of the disciplines of Acting, Singing, & Dance Would you like your child to enjoy exciting weekends, with the opportunity to join a like-minded group of friends, and to have the advantage of developing skills that will aid through life?

Then, don't wait or hesitate!

Contact Theatre Express now for a Prospectus. Tel/Fax: 01608 - 676024 Or, write to: Theatre Express, P. 0. Box 94, Chipping Norton D. 0., 0X7 3YL Or e-mail us on: expressi@globalnet.co.uk

L

Your nearest established school, if you wish to visit before applying, is based at Burford, Oxon

This is

REEND WN

A Newsletter from West Swindon's Local School • November 1998 See us @ www.swindonlink.com

GCSE results confirm rising trend of success In line with - but comfortably above - the national trend of an increase in 5+A-C grades at GCSE, Greendown celebrates another successful set of public exam results. National Curriculum Test Results at 14 (SATS) were also particularly good in Science and Maths.

As usual there were some excellent performances by exceptional students, including one year 9 student who obtained an A* in GSCE Maths, and also those who obtained Maths at AS level. Our Maths early entry policy, where some students take GCSE exams in year 10 or even as early as year 9, continues to be as successful as in previous years.

We are particularly concerned at Greendown to help all our students improve their expectations of final performance. The staff work intensively with students and parents offering additional sessions, after school homestudy clubs, helping with personal time planning and setting individual targets.

In addition, students' grades are regularlychecked against standardised tests of verbal, numeric and visual ability, and against grades in other subjects. Students are regularly told how well they are doing and what they need to improve further.

Headteacher Ian Matthews

Winner earns award Paula Brooks, one of Greendown's most happy and courageous students, died of Cystic Fibrosis in 1993.

In her memory, the school set up the Paula Brooks Award to be given each year to the student, who, by popular acclaim, has shown the most spirit and determination in the face of adversity.

This year, the cup went to Andrew Dutton. Andrew made great efforts to overcome significant personal difficulties and find a new and improved attitude to his work and social life in school.

Andrew Dutton received the award from chair of Governors Andrew Basson at a special whole school assembly on the last day of the summer term

Intake keeps on rising New buildings planned for September 99 The year 6 intake in September, at 255, was our largest ever and takes the total school roll to 1,037.

We expect to grow to over 1,300 in the next two years.

We have taken steps to cope with the increased demand on the school by appointing more staff and reorganising the timetable so that there is less contact between upper and lower school to ease congestion in corridors and at break times.

An ÂŁ800,000 building programme starts in April

1999 and by next September, the school will have anew library and Resources Centre, eight teaching areas and computer rooms. A new music suite is also to be built.

In keeping with the school philosophy, these facilities will be available to the wider community.

We are also in active discussion with both Swindon and New Colleges and the University of Swindon about how Greendown can provide education beyond secondary school on our site.

Oxbridge entrants for third year running We are pleased that, for the third year running, graduates from Greendown have started degrees at Oxford University.

Eran Palti, who formerly attended Shaw Ridge primary school, left Greendown with 6 A*, 2 As, 2 Bs, and 1 C grade at GCSE. At New College, he achieved a clean sweep of top grades at A level in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Computing.

He has just started a four year Physics degree at Wadham College, Oxford and has already set his sights on a Ph.D. in Physics Another New College student

Emma Kingston left Greendown two years ago with 7 A* and 3 As and achieved three A grades at A level in Geography, French and Spanish. The ex-Oliver Tomkins primary pupil has started a BA degree at Pembroke College, Oxford.

A keen hockey player, Emma played in the West of England under 21 team last season and is looking forward to gaining an Oxford Blue.

Emma and Eran

High art for Polly Following outstanding GCSE results in 1996, former Greendown student Polly Benford achieved A grades in Art and Art History at Swindon College this summer. Her work in Art History was adjudged as one of the top five by the examining board.

Polly has started a one year pre-degree Foundation Year at Swindon Art College and is applying to University to study Fine Art.

Bromcom keeps tabs on progress and attendance Teachers at Greendown don't mark attendance registers anymore - at least not with a pen!

Anew compact computer, the 'Bromcom', the same size as a register has taken its place.

Simply pressing a key calls up each class register from a central computer, students in class are marked in, and the data is transmitted back, cutting out all the manual labour needed to check 41 individual register books.

Moreover, every student is registered at every class - not just twice a day.

The system has huge potential says headteacher Ian Matthews. 'The key issue for schools is how to get information on any one student rapidly and efficiently. Each student may have up to 12 different teachers. Passing hits of paper to one another about that students progress, attendance, discipline and reward is massively complicated and inefficient - multiply this task by 27 students in each tutor group

and the tutor can be overwhelmed by paper.

"This system enables us to rapidly collate information about homestudy, attendance and achievement for an individual student and communicate it to parents at consultations or by letter.

"In the future, we plan to provide a comprehensive picture of each student': progress through the different stages o school."

Progress at the press of a button? Well, teacher and Head of Logistics, Ray Barker i more than convinced. 'It's been a big investment for the school and we've had one or two glitches - as you would expect with a new system used by 68 teachers. But Bromcom has settled into regular use and the system has the potential to revolutionise the handling of masses of pupil data. The quality of information available to parents will be vastly improved."

Musicians help bring out the 'Soul' of the Wiltshire Festival The Greendown music department continues to be hugely popular with over a quarter of students learning a musical instrument or taking singing lessons. Their learning is having very public results.

This summer's Wiltshire Festival in Lydiard Park was particularly memorable for 50 students who opened the show with three numbers. Later on they returned onstage to provide backing for the legend of Soul Music, Sam Moore, in front of six thousand spectators.

As a result, the Music Department has new equipment worth £2,000.

Sam, much impressed with our singers and musicians has hinted that he would like to record with them. Whatever transpires in the future, we very much hope he will perform with us again and will consider becoming our music patron.

Also in the last year, our musicians raised £2,000 for Children In Need, and also helped Goddard Primary School in Swindon at a charity cabaret which raised £1 300 for an orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya.

Above: Launching the Wiltshire Festival. Below: With Sam Moore at rehearsals before the big show

Below: On stage with Sam Moore

Spanish-speaking visitors get students talking This year we have welcomed tour Spanish speakers to provide our year 7 students with regular conversation - Venezualans Hender & Sandra, Colombian, Roxanne and Spaniard Natali.

All five groups studying Spanish have been meeting our young visitors who are living and working in Swindon.

We are delighted that another international Connection has been forged to help our students learn both another language and about another

culture.We should now like to find four native Frenc speakers to help us with conversation.

Recherche!

Jeunes francais(e)s pour pratiquer la conversatio avec les eleves deutantes de francais a Greendow School Ic mecredi. £6.00 par heure; une heure p semaine pour l'instant. Contact Madame Mochan: tel 874224.

Doing the business at GNVQ ulu dancers set •chool jumping Greendown had the privilege o host 'Alive Kids' from South rica last November.

The 30 strong dancers and mu.icians, touring with the Boys Bri:ade 'Streetwise' project, put stuents through a fast paced work.hop before going on to perform or the Queen in the town centre.

Many of the performers had seen street children and talked to lasses about the harshness of life n the townships and what it was ike to live under Apartheid.

Students hear of life in Ethiopia We welcomed a return visit of church development worker Theo Tesfaye, from Ethiopia, in October.

He was in Britain for the tenth anniversary of the 'Send A Cow' project and was able to fit in a slide show and talk to year 11 GCSE geography students.

Head of Humanities PeterGould said Theo's visit gave a tremendous boost to student learning.

"He speaks with such conviction about how Christianity has brought real spiritual and physical development to a troubled country. He exploded many stereotypes about the environment, aid to poorer countries and cultural differences.

"The students were absolutely amazed by what Theo had to sa

Greendown was one of only two Swindon schools allowed to pilot these new vocational courses in Business and Engineering in 1997 - and they are proving popular with our students.

The GNVQ is already taken by a large number of post-16 college students as a route to employment, modern apprenticeships or Higher Education. The qualification has been adapted for schools so that 14 to 16 year olds can benefit from the distinctive approach to the world of work.

We are delighted by the support Midland Bank has given us, sponsoring an award for the student who has achieved the most during the course.

Daniel Collict received the sheild for remarkable

advancement in communication skills with both his peers and outside agencies.

Other successes at GNVQ include a team of Greendown students who, earlier this year, won the Burmah Castrol Challenge after an intensive day's competition with other teams during an Economic and Industrial Understanding Conference.

Issued with ÂŁ3 million pounds in tokens, our team had to construct a marketing strategy for an oil company which had launched two new lubricants.

Mrs Elaine Ford, Greendown Head of Business Studies commented, "the case study represented an actual situation, so it was highly gratifying to see our students performing so effectively in 'the real world".

lklrinah (asln (.onlcrencc

Oil executMs ot ht Iiiture? Business Studies teachers Evci (1c ft) .,ntl I1.m I rd ith the Burmah - Challenge w %N

GNVQ award winner Daniel Collict

Broad engineering day puts students through their paces Our annual engineering day in July, organised by the Neighbourhood Engineers, gave year 10 students the chance to see the application of engineering in the real world. GNVQ students worked at the Rover Design Centre, testing quad-bikes and considering design issues for the next generation of these vehicles.

Fifty students had a fascinating

day at the Army careers centre whilst others visited Didcot Power Station. Another group visited a water works to look at how microbes are used in sewage treatment.

In school, students made kites, had a go at welding and made radios.

Science challenges In October, fourteen year 9 students had a challenging experience, arranged and supported by The Institute of Mechanical Engineers and Dyson Manufacturing, and hosted by 'Think ofA Number' presenter, Johnny Ball. After various testing activities and thinking problems, James Turner won a prize of a book all about the successful Dyson vacuum cleaner.

Testing time on the year 10 Engineering Day in July. Jamie Mead, left, and Paul Weeks

This is Greendown • 4

Not bored with the Bard Last November over 500 West Swindon primary school pupils saw Salisbury Playhouse perform Shakespeare's A Midsummer's Night Dream in the Greendown Drama Studio and Senior Teacher Tim Noble, directed Westlea Year 6 in their own performance of the play.

Now we are going a stage further with bardolatry. In what we believe is the first of its kind in Swindon, we are working with seven of our partner primary schools to mount the West Swindon Schools' Shakespeare Festival.

This autumn five hundred year 6 pupils in West Swindon are

studying The Tempest as part of the new National Literacy strategy in Primary Schools while at Greendown, all our year 7 students will experience and stage parts of the play in Drama & Enrichment sessions. In December this year, two classes from Westlea will be acting The Tempest at Greendown. Sixty of our

year 7 students are also producing their version of the masterpiece. Then, injanuary next year, Salisbury Playhouse will give five performances for 600 West Swindon's children.

With £5,000 of generous sponsorship from National Power, and £1,000 from W.H.Smith to provide prizes of a day in Stratford for the 16 pupils who do the best work during the festival, we are obviously very excited about the

prospect of some excellent study by children at our partner primary schools on the world's greatest playwright.

Greek myths explored with partner primary

Emma Bean from National Power, centre, presents a cheque to West Swindon teachers collecting 700 copies of William Shakespeare's The Tempest. Back, from left to right, Tim Noble, Greendown festival coordinator, Kaye Wilkie from Shaw Ridge School; Jessie Daniels, Oliver Tomkins Junior School; Karen Winterburn, Tregoze School; Emma Howarth, Freshbrook School; Kate Andrews, Tregoze School; Rosemary Stevens and Jan Sayers, Wroughton Junior School; Zina Joannou, Freshbrook School. Front, Alison Pass, Westlea School; Caroline Haywood, Freshbrook School.

Olympic hopefuls Greendown students Rebecca Arthur, Michael Newman and John Newman have their sights set on bowling for England in the Sydney Olympic Games.

All three, who bowl for the

We always make visitors very welcome and are happy to give parents tours of the school.

For more information please contact, Primary parents: Tim Noble Other parents: Steve O'Sullivan Community use and bookings: Amanda Yeoman (mornings only)

Tel: (0 1793) 874224

Salt Way performers, rear Halley Taylor, Simon Farrow, Rachel Plant. Front, Victoria Banick

School teams' sporting success maintained Our girls' teams continue to achieve success: the year 8 athletics team were overall champions in the Swindon Athletics championships with a particularly creditable performance from Jade O'Brien who managed to improve her time over 100 metres by over a second.

Swindon Youth Bowling Club, have represented Wiltshire at tenpin bowling, competing at levels up to U18s. Five years of regular training and long hours of practise have paid dividends, with an array of trophies from local and national tournaments.

Tenpin bowling is increasingly making its mark as a serious sport.

It was included for the first time in this year's Commonwealth Games. Next stop Sydney in the year 2000?

Rebecca Arthur, Michael Newman and John Newman Greendown is West Swindon's Community School catering for local families and a wide range of community groups.

Primary liaison teacher Tim Noble worked with Salt Way School children during the summer term to stage an original play based on the travails of ancient Greek hero Odysseus.

Catch us if you can!' PE teacher and England Cross Country runner, Caroline Thomas with her fleet-footed team

Top rugby player wins Rob Andrew shirt Individual efforts are also notable - particularly the Most improved Rugby Player of the Year - Matthew Monahan.

Matthew, who was also player of the year for Supermarine, received the Greendown Rob Andrew Shirt, awarded to the student who made the most all round improvement in the year.

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

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Pet pictures for Christmas

The Link Magazine' November 1998

p

27

PmATHomiE

West Swindon artist Linda Lee is offering to immortalise a pet in pencil or pastels. She says this would be an excellent and highly individual gift for Christmas.

If you have a photograph of a pet she can copy, let Linda create a unique picture for you. For details, call her on 875184.

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

Pets At Home could be your answer

Marathon raises charity cash

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

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.

Forty students launched the annual Ridgeway School sponsored challenge on Thursday 1 October with a 24 hour fitness marathon.

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SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE Aerobics, basketball, swimming, Marathon students burn up energy for good causes skittles and netball were just a few of the many activities which kept the youngsters going. On Friday Volunteer 'oscars' 1,400 students spent the day out of class, walking the Ridgeway, to be awarded painting murals, cooking or tak- On Monday 2 November the work ing part in a range of other activi- of local volunteers and volunteer ties. involving organisations will be recognised at an award dinner at NCT Tea and Tots Swindon Marriott Hotel.

This year's Whitbread VolunTea and Tots are a network of informal free groups brought to- teering Action Awards feature a gether by a parent from the Na- special Swindon award in additional Childbirth Trust and then tion to the regional and national organised by you. They are held awards, thanks to the efforts of on weekdays either in member's Swindon Volunteers, Allied homes or local halls and give you Dunbar and the Marriott.

All Swindon nominees will be and your baby the chance to make invited to this year's ceremony, new friends.

The National Childbirth Trust is the "Oscars" of volunteering. a charity that provides information and support for expectant and Volunteering opportunities new parents. For more informa- Volunteering can provide a useful tion contact Suzie Bryan on 530878. stepping stone towards employment. As well as offering a way of gaining experience, it can help Alone with kids? build confidence and self-esteem.

Swindon Twelve Eighteen Project Lone parents are encouraged to (STEP) is looking for adult voluncome along and try a new group teers to help provide support for at West Swindon Family & Comyoung people facing difficulties in munity Project their lives The Lone Parent Group is run by the members, with support from Age Concern Swindon and the project worker Allyson Cardis. Well Woman Centre are both lookAllied Dunbar has provided fund- ing for volunteers for their charity shops. ing for a creche.

The group which meets on Tues- Relate and Druglink need volundays, lOam to 12noon, at 15 teer receptionists.

Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, Homestart needs volunteers to offers an opportunity to meet other visit families in their homes after lone parents for a chat, or perhaps an appropriate training course. to find support in shared experience. It is a time when you can For details of these and other voltake a break from the children, unteering opportunities, contact knowing that they are being well Jaclyn Oldman at Swindon Volunteers on 538398 or call in to see her cared for in the creche.

To find out more, call Allyson at Voluntary Action, 1 John Street, Swindon. on 871303.

David Warnes B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S. Shaw Village Centre Ramleaze Drive, Shaw ±--Swindon SN5 9P

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28

Focus on Mental Health A group of women who have had mental health problems meet each week in West Swindon.

Gina Dennis joined them to find out what it is like to be diagnosed as 'mentally ill'.

Labelled a 'loonY Mental illness, it seems, is still something that 'happens to other people'; it carries a stigma which marks you as a social outcast and everything else about you is discredited.

The women in the group admitted that, prior to their own illness, they would probably have rejected others who were mentally ill.

Social perceptions and media im-

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Because of the stigma, both the sufferer and their family will try to hide the real nature of the illness, inventing physical ills as a cover.

But, at the same time, "you imagine there's a label across your forehead saying 'loony'." This sense of shame also makes it hard to ask for information.

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Whilst professional support is ap- "Although it was a terrible experipreciated, 'having the right per- ence, it's done me good having a son who understands what the real breakdown," said Liz. "It's slowed me down to a more realistic pace."

TWIGS grow stronger after a year

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist ;rhr iji

Although people do recover from mental illness, the stigma remains.

It is more acceptable to show a period in prison than to admit to mental health problems on job applications. But the group felt strongly that, if a doctor considers you fit to work, there should not be an issue. Indeed, you may well be a stronger, more understanding person.

In November last year, Swindon's horticultural therapy project, TWIGS, was established at Moredon Gardens in Cheney Manor, to help people rebuild their lives through gardening and craft activities.

Q Headache & Migraine

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For these women, coming to groups has often helped more than anything, "because people work out a way together." Talking and sharing is vital. It lets out 'an accumulation which has reached breaking point'. Often what one person says triggers a buried awareness for others. Openness and honesty are movingly obvious within the group. They wished that they had come together sooner.

issues are for you is crucial'. And, although the group acknowledged the huge pressures on the mental health services, delayed appointments can feel like the end of the world. Anne commented that sometimes you don't feel that professionals really understand what your experience is. Liz suggested, "a physical illness can be seen. Feelings can't. Instead of telling them what you really feel, sometimes you create an embroidered version."

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TWIGS members in the greenhouse,from left, Robert Wills, project coordinator Alison Duxberry, Ray Muir, Tim Warfield with a bumper crop of tomatoes

The voluntary organisation provides leisure and rehabilitation opportunities for people who are experiencing emotional distress or mental ill health. As well as being fun, gardening and working with your hands are very therapeutic.

Much enjoyment and satisfaction can be gained by choosing from a range of activities: sowing seeds, tending trees, growing flowers, or weeding, to woodwork and decorating plant containers.

Volunteers and people who have been referred work alongside each other on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, lOam to 4pm. As one volunteer said, "there's more to

TWIGS than digging - there's a great community spirit here - everyone is treated as a person not an illness."

TWIGS can always use new volunteers, particularly anyone with indoor gardening or craft skills over the winter months.

If you would like to know more about TWIGS, to visit or would like to volunteer, telephone 523294.

Open Day Sat. 5 December 10am - 3.30pm Jubilee Gardens horticultural project, Church Bush Hall, Cricklade Road, Purton Stoke. For further information, call 771539.

The first in an occasional series looking at needs in the community and the organisations which can help

29

HOMEFRONT Mental Health Support If you are concerned about your own or someone else's mental health, you should contact your GP. Information and support is also available from: • Focus on Carers and Self Help, Morley Street, Swindon. Tel: 531133 Essential information on organisations and support for carers.

• Hobbs Unit For Skills Development, Hobbs Unit, Hawthorn Centre, Cricklade Road, Swindon. Tel: 618627 ex 26. Vocational assessment! guidance and work skill training for adults with a disability or health restriction.

• Mondays Moving On. Contact Pam Pixton, Neighbourhood Worker, on 465462. Social and support group for women with mental health problems, who meet on Mondays at the Link Centre.

• Thamesdown Friendship Club, behind St Lukes Church, Broad Street, Swindon. Tel: 490876. Social club, support, advocacy • Understanding Stress and Nervous Illness, 261 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 619735. Self-help group More detailed information on many of these organisations is available at the Swindonlink web site, www.swindonlink.com under Voluntary Groups, Mental Health.

Directory provides essential information A new services directory for people with mental health problems is now available from Swindon & District Mind. It contains a wealth of information about who does what locally, from support groups to courses to housing and benefits.

MIND works with people who have been labelled or treated as having mental health problems. As well as a befriending scheme, MIND organises the following so-

cial opportunities: • Tuesdays, 6.45- 845pm: Drop in session at the Pilgrim Centre Cafe, top of Regent Street, Swindon • Wednesdays, 1030am - 1230pm: Coffee morning at the MIND Office, 1 Regent Circus.

You can ring Swindon & District MIND on 432031 or 436889 for information, to make an appointment to talk to someone, or to order a copy of the directory.

Stepping stone back to work

THE BATHING SERVICE

Swindon QEST (Quest Employment Support Team) believes that, contrary to many people's perceptions, employers can be supportive to people who have been mentally ill.

QEST helps people who are experiencing or recovering from mental health problems back to work. They offer training and individual support in finding and sustaining employment. As well as confidence building and jobseeking skills, support includes help with the social aspects of work like: 'what will I do at lunchtime?'

Project worker Anne Billingham says, "we find employers very supportive. We're rarely turned down for work tasters and placements, which are invaluable in assessing work readiness. These can lead to paid employment when there are appropriate job vacancies."

It is now illegal for an employer with more than 15 employees to turn someone down for a job on the grounds of past mental health problems.

To be supported by QEST, you need to be referred by a social worker, CPN or possibly a GP. However, you can contact them for more information on 433571.

For those whose everyday tasks have become a little difficult, we provide a unique and comprehensive bathing and grooming service by qualified staff in your own home.

Registered with Social Services Homefront, 35 Byron Avenue Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 812716/853092

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catting MCSP Chartered Physiotherapist Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703 60 High Street, Wootton Bassett

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i used to hate the thought of winter - those cold, dark lonely evenings.

Now with Homeline I feel safe and secure knowing someone is on hand if I need them."

Life for Betty is easier - If you are worried about an elderly relative, friend or someone who needs your help, when you can't be there - we can.

We offer a variety of monitors which can easily be fixed in the home, from panic buttons by the front door to pendants which you can wear around your neck.

Trained and caring 24 hour mobile wardens are on hand to lend some help at the At only £3.15 a week don't touch of a button. Homeline's you think peace of mind is wardens can get in touch worth it? To find out more with a relative or doctor if phone us on. required or can help if there is a problem.

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30

The Link Magazine. November 1998

Top fire officers visit Westlea station Westlea firefighters are heavily involved in community fire safety education and the station has recently received national attention, writes Leading Firefighter Ian Jeary.

Currently we are piloting two Craig and the Assistant Chief Of- You never know how the equip- order to Sub Officer Martin Lloyd schemes: the chip pan trade-in is ficer Phil Appleby came to see the ment has survived the summer and his partner Jeanette on the birth up and running, and the commu- station personnel. They were given months unused of their baby son, Samuel. Also to nity fire watch scheme will be a presentation of the chip pan and Also make sure that the smoke fire fighter Andrew Magnall and launched in December, subject to fire watch schemes, a domestic alarms in your home are regularly his wifejoanne on thebirth of Toby. sponsorship support for printing sprinkler demonstration and were tested and the battery is changed. All concerned are fit, healthy and of leaflets and information, introduced to the watch members. If you have any problems refer to doing well.

As a result of these ground Mr Meldrum was very impressed. the manufacturers instructions or • Companies who can help with breaking initiatives and our hard Winter is closing in and at this contact Westlea Fire Station for sponsorship of the community fire work, the most senior uniformed time of year we start using our advice. watch scheme should contact Ian fire officer in the country paid us a electric blankets, central heating, Finally, congratulations are in Jeary on 487562. visit in October. Her Majesty's fires and chimneys. To avoid an Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Fire Services Graham Meidrum, second Chief Inspector of Fire Services impromptu visit by the Brigade, right, with Wiltshire's Chief Fire Officer John Craig, centre, and Assistant Graham Meidrum, along with please make sure your appliances Chief Officer Phil Appleby, second left, wit hfrom left, Leading Firefighter Ian Wiltshire's Chief Fire Officer John are checked out by the experts.

Jeary, Firefighters Steve Field and Justine Thomas, Sub-officer Perry Payne

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New housing and training project up and running Swindon Foyer is now up and running and offering affordable accommodation linked to training and guidance for 16 to 25 year olds (30 if disabled).

As a result of last month's excluThe official launch of Swindon sive feature in The Link, Foyer man- Foyer will take place in early 1999. ager Caroline Duffy reports conTo find out more about placesiderable interest from social work- ments at Swindon Foyer, contact ers and other caring professionals Caroline Duffy on 531679. in finding accommdation for Foyer on the web: www.foyer.net young people.

The Swindon scheme is managed by Jephson Housing Association and like all of the 80 or so Foyers which have opened in the A West Swindon gas repair and UK since 1992, it provides a stable installation company, and reguand secure community, training in lar Link advertiser, continues to basic skills and independent liv- expand and provide new services.

In the last three years David ing, and help finding appropriate training, employment and perma- Watts from Nine Elms has moved from a one man business to one nent accommodation.

The aim is to enable youngsters employing five gas technicians.

He has recently taken on two to achieve independence and play more engineers and, with assista full part in society.

Swindon Foyer has sixty smart ance from Wiltshire TEC, a modnew furnished bed-sits with en- em apprentice to learn the trade. suite facilities, including 8 specially In the last two months, Gastech equipped for people with disabili- has opened offices, stores and ties. These are arranged in groups, workshops at BSS House in Cheney each group sharing a kitchen.

Manor. A showroom will soon In the basement is a large com- open offering new and recondimon room with a pool table, TV tioned gas appliances. and comfy chairs, a smaller trainDavid would like to thank all his ing room, a computer suite with 10 customers for their continued supcomputers, provided by Swindon port of Gastech.

College, and an extra kitchen.

He would also like to remind all There are garden and patio areas Link readers that now is a good outside, a small car park and a bike time to have gas appliances servshed. Rents and services will ini- iced for maximum efficiency and tially be set at £70 a week. safety. Tel: 873060.

Gastech grows

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The Link Magazine .November 1998

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Council works hard to get rid of graffiti Swindon Borough Council is stepping up its efforts to clean up West Swindon following an informal survey of major graffiti sites in the area.

Toothill and Freshbrook are the However, it is Borough policy just cleaned. He says, "the tagging worst areas in the Borough for graf- that obscene and racist vandalism is senseless vandalism which spoils fiti, followed closely by Walcot. must be removed within 24 hours, the locality. ButI must admit some The recent survey showed that so Ray will be directed to these as of the artwork is quite good - some around 5% of homes in Toothill soon as possible after they are re- of these people obviously have talported. He uses chemicals to break ent. It's just used in the wrong have 'significant graffiti'.

Ray Mills, Borough Graffiti Op- down the paint, followed by a jet place." erative, spends most of his time in spray to remove the residues.

Ray has never run into someone West Swindon, cleaning graffiti off Although he enjoys his job, Ray spraying or tagging but says, "persubways, road signs and council finds it very frustrating when new haps they might stop vandalising buildings. He generally works graffiti appears on an area he has public places if they saw the through different areas on a amount of work required to remove it." monthly cycle.

The Borough spends £40,000 a year on graffiti patrols and removal from its own property but struggles to keep up. It cannot remove graffiti from private homes by law, but offers free advice to those afPROPERTY SERVICES fected. It is currently pressing utiliWhatever you need, ties to clean up their sites. Geoff Davies, Team Leader Waste Diswe will be able to help posal, says, "the Council are doing • Decorating • Plumbing something about graffiti and do • Gardens • Partitions recognise the quality of life issues."

To report abusive or obscene • Electrical • Heating graffiti on public buildings or for • Cleaning • Carpentry advice on removal and preventaFor a professional service with Ray Mills removing graffiti defacing tive techniques, contact Geoff Davies or Alison Clack on 466007. an underpass in Freshbrook high standards guaranteed,

Oper.: Mon . Sat, 9am - Spin The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

Call 525671 or

Mobile 0973 760167

& DOVE Commerce House, 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon • • • •

A fast efficient fully computerised conveyancing service Family Law • Wills • Probate Personal Injury Claims Employment Matters

Telephone now for a quote:

Tel: (01793) 617617 Fax: (01793) 511249

Holme s Music

"VIlE R

A FAMILY BUSINESS WITH A BIG REPUTATION FOR SERVICE ESTABLISHED

Guitars-AmplifiersF RANGE OF PA Systems-Drum KeyboarUs School Recorder Piano's Harmonicas Strings. Effects - Cases- St CS Mi ophones -Tapes. Le D A GroupGe CASIO

Educational

36 oars' Music

ROCK CENTR

NEW Roll USED

'1OOsol BITS & PIECES, tjOOs MUSIC ALBUMS,

Youth Work Week goes on the web An Internet Access event in the Brunel Shopping Centre takes up this year's theme of 'Young People and Information Technology' during Youth Work Week, 1 to 8 November.

On Thursday 5 November, net connections. young people from schools and Jane Kirk, Youth work Team youth clubs will have 'hands on' Leader for West Swindon, said, access to computers and the world "youth work enables young peowide web from 9am and 7.30pm. ple to take greater control of their During the week, youth groups lives, recognising both their rights and projects around the UK will be and their responsibilities. It is edushowing what is being done to en- cation for life. able young people to take advan"Information Technology is tage of Information Technology, transforming all our lives and the West Swindon projects include week will show how youth work desk top publishing at Greendown can play an important role in enYouth Club. At Freshbrook and suring all young people are able to Toothill Youth Clubs and the Link take advantage of the opportuniYouth Unit, young people will be ties." exploring CD Roms, using an inFor information on the Brunel teractive drugs awareness game Centre event or on youth work in and searching an advice database. West Swindon, ring Jane Kirk on Hopefully there will also be inter- 877983 orJo Marchmenton465466.

AcaOeIIIg TUITION FOR BEGINNERS

Kevieoard £D Piano-Organ OwPe Guitar-Drums Lesson on Lessons Available DAYTIME a EVENINGS DOflt YEARN to Play When you can L EARN to Play

FIRST LESSON IS FREE

ENROL NOW ARDOENTRE[euNIes

21-23 Faringdon Road Swindon TeI:01193 526393/534095

Link Youth Unit gets a refit and decoration An additional youth worker is be- wide range of issues such as relaing recruited, enabling the unit to tionships, bullying, drugs and alopen from 3pm to 6pm every after- cohol, health, homelessness and noon and 6pm to 9pm on Mon- legal rights. days and Thursdays.

If you are aged 14 to 25, drop in The social area is being enlarged at the times above or call 465466 and the whole unit is getting new for more information. carpets and a lick of paint.

Facilities include a pool table, Young mums group TV and video room and space to A group for young mothers and break-dance. Also on offer is the mothers to be starts on 10 Novemopportunity to talk confidentially ber, 2pm to 4pm, at the Link Youth to someone who can provide in- Unit. To make contactbeforehand, formation and practical help on a call the number above.

33

r,00

4~1,0~we74_1 e

RYANS FURNITURE & GIFTWARE

Thoughts are turning to Christmas and plans are being made. A visit to Swindon Old Town should be top of the list of places to go.

Its a compact area with a varied range of shops, many of which will be charmingly decorated in a festive style in a few weeks. They are also quite distinct, ideal when you are searching for that something which marks out your individuality, and your desire to put thought into Christmas shopping.

Two shops which Service with a have opened during smile atreacon the year are Ryans in Richard Deaco, Wood Street and One with ciina stockist World Mexican Pine lVenihi l0it'li Centre in Victoria Road. Both are packed with very china and jewellery gift shop sparunusual items from around the kles an invitation to come in.

The firm has remained successworld. Whether your budget is large or modest, you should be ful through the generations beable to find something interesting cause of the quality of watches, clocks, pens and collectibles it sells, and memorable.

Another new venture is Natural and of course, good old fashioned Health in High Street where you and knowledgeable service.

A portrait of the children or the will find a range of organic health family always makes a lovely foods and therapy treatments.

A more traditional shop is Dea- Christmas present, but it needs a cons in Wood Street, the town's bit of planning ahead. Goddard second oldest family firm. From Photographic has a special offer outside, the newly refurbished which fits the bill nicely.

r W

N ATURATI HEALTH Stockists of organic, health foods, supplements & natural therapy treatments.

We also stock gifts 23 High Street Old Town Tel: 01793 422488

MEXICAN p PINE C E NT RE

p

Latest range of rustic Segusino furniture Large selection of ethnic gifts and furniture, lava lamps, picture gallery FREE DELIVERY • ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

92 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 539550 Near Evening Advertiser building

14 Wood Street Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 422522

GODDARD PHOTOGRAPHIC

Special Xmas Offer Studio portraits: Only ÂŁ19.50 includes two 8"x6" mounted prints and sitting fee

WW

ONE WORLD

If you are looking for something a little different or unusual, Ryans stock a constantly changing selection of Oriental, Ethnic and British furniture and gifts

One extra print free with this advertisement on the above offer

Tel: 538367 to book an appointment L

Tr

01793 694277

fhL?\ Established since 1950

RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS

& MANAGEMENT

DO YOU WANT A 1st CLASS SERVICE? + Our reputation has been built over nearly 50 years of professional property management + Local & nationwide advertising + Wide range of services, from introduction only to full management

Peter Long & Partners 16 High Street, Old Town, Swindon

34

The Link Magazine' November 1998

See us on the net

W

ANTIQUES & ALL PINE Quality brass & iron beds • Old & traditional pine Mattresses, bases • Special sizes, four posters DELIVERY/ERECTION SERVICE

11 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon

Tel: 01793 520259

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

e1-?ezJShoes are the mainstay of well known Old Town trader Blaylocks, situated on the corner of Bath Road and Devizes Road. They stock all the best brands and the personal service is second to none. With years of experience, they know what they are talking about when fitting shoes.

Victoria Bookshop, 30 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 527364

BLAYLOCKS SWINDON'S FAMILY SHOE SHOP Est. 1920

STOCKISTS OF ALL LEADING BRANDS Blaylocks Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

Come to Pets Kitchen Top of Vic Hill.

Old Towir

Tel: 527057 Open Mon - Sat, 9am 530pm We stock all your pet requirements: Hills Science, Eukanuba, Pedigree, Omega, Repnor

'I

Opposite is Pets Kitchen with everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy. It's a great place to find something to repay those hours of enjoyment.

Books are always a perfect fall back for Christmas. Any well planned shopping trip can be swept off course at Victoria Books.

Just across the road in Wood Street are opticians Hyslop and Leighton, offering comprehensive, quality eye care and a wide range of frames to choose from.

Close by is Dandelion which stocks unusual gifts and toys.

The shop will soon be holding a series of open evenings to give you the chance to choose your Christmas presents.

With friends and relations coming round, or to stay, you might be thinking of new furnishings.

Spillers, who have over 150 years of experience, will provide in-

We have rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, chinchillas, tropical & cold water fish (20p first hour parking. Saturdays, Devizes Rd)

13Q1 • • • • •

Servicing and repairs to all vehicles MoT testing - free re-test Accident repair specialists Jaguar and Daimler Courtesy lifts available

Bradford Road Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 528396 MoTs six days a week

00/6 OFF WITH THIS ADVERT Hooper Place (Off Newport Street) Old Town, Swindon (Opposite the Co-Op)

Silencer Services Ltd

Tel: (01793) 433334

•PrecIseIy The Ldrjr iun Monu,'. Qi.rti Date

o Exhaust and tyre specialists o Fastfit Cars & Light Commercial O For the best quality service I / Open: — Mon — Fri 8am — 6pm ,E,,roKrsrnrr Sat 8am — 4.30pm

•

'

TUDOR

DEACONS

Deacon & Son (Swindon) Ltd. The Jewellers. Est 1848.

11-15 WOOD STREET, OLD TOWN, SWINDON Tel. 522072/527530 December Opening Hours: 9 tilt 5.30 Monday to Saturday inclusive

The Link Magazine. November 1998

@ www.swindonlink.com

Connie Croker, below, runs Wear it Well in North Street with great enthusiasm. Its Wiltshire's largest as new clothing agency and there are always interesting bargains to be had. The shop can be found, just a short distance from the Prospect Place car park,

Proprietor Steve Austin and just some of the volumes to browse through at Victoria Books. valuable advice when choosing home coordinates and bedrooms.

It's worth having your car serviced before Christmas and Britannia Garages can sort out any problems including MOTs. If you need a new silencer or tyres, Bells, off Newport Street, will fit them while you wait.

Whilst in Old Town, take a break at Nature's Larder. Eileen McCue is offering Link readers a free cup of tea or coffee if you bring in the advertisement at the Be prepared to be surprised at bottom of this page. Enjoy!

Savernake Antiques in the Victoria Centre, slightly down Victoria Hill. Its impossible to predict what you will find there.

Ladies, it's the party1 season. So why not buy and sell your evening wear at

,

Wear It Well Your local & largest dress agency.

Also: casual/day occasion/ bridal wear 59 North Street, (off Eastcott Road), Old Town, Swindon Telephone: 695223 Open: Tues & Thurs lOam - 6pm

Fri & Sat

lOam - 4pm

.c4lntiques

Details of open evenings and Sunday opening times now available Pay us a visit and we are sure you will be amazed at the varied and unusual gifts and toys we can offer you for any occasion

10 Wood Street, Old Town Tel: 511099

OPTICIANS

_\

Comprehensive quality eyecare

Five showrooms of Antiques and Collectables

Eye examination

Open Sundays l lam -4pm Mon , Sat. lOam - 5pm

Tel: 01793 536668

A

11nfIdi0n

HYSLOP & LEIGHTON

SYE

Victoria Centre, 138 - 139 Victoria Rd. Old Town, Swindon (1 mm. walk from Prospect Place car park)

Another unusual emporium is Antiques and All Pine in Newport Street. John Brown stocks interesting pine furniture and also new four posters built in traditional Victorian style.

35

Spectacle dispensing Contact lenses 33 Wood Street, Swindon Tel: (01793) 522586 (01793) 522936 Fax: (01793) 421699

WE'RE BIGGER THAN YOU THINK!

gencies

LANDLORDS

Home Co-ordinates

Do you have a property to let?

We offer the most complete and only guaranteed management service in the region.

We have tenants waiting for quality residential properties For further information or advice, please contact 01793 431725

Bedroom Showroom

r

1/tu1//ia1/z 96 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon • Tel: 521831

For all your health foods, homeopathic remedies, vitamins & minerals, sugar free and other special diet foods Teas, coffees and home made cakes in the Nature's Larder cafe Drop in to see Eileen the next time you are in Old Town

nathan LA-Z-BOY YOUR OLD SUITE & BED DISPOSED OF

Slumberlafld

Willis-B`1'

STRONGBOW

OCCASIONAL FURNITURE FIRESIDE CHAIRS

Spillers Furnishings & Bed Centre ESTABUSI-IED

Free cup of tea or coffee with this advertisement

Parker Knoll

1843

• SERVING SW1NDON FOR OVER 150 yE&s

132 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 522329/541146

Valid until 30/11/98 -J

The family business that really cares

36

SERVICE SECTOR

ACCOUNTANCY Business start ups Book-keeping Annual accounts Self assessment tax Short & long term

AERIAL SERVICES

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

ACE Aerials & Electrical Services

GUARANTEED REPAIRS...

SERVICING & REPAIRS

BY HOOVER TRAINED ENGINEER Repairs to most makes of: / Washing Machines / Dryers .7 Dishwashers .7 Microwaves .7 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed No VAT to pay Tel: 526656 or 827804

assistance & projects

For a competitive price

GRA Accountancy Services

call us now on 01793 528519

Free initial meeting Tel/fax: 01793 871790 Mobile: 0468 068 770

•...all day, every day

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

D & H DIXEY BUILDING CONTRACTORS

GARY CURTIS CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

General buildersextensions, alterations, plastering and pebbledashing, roofing - flat or pitched

0 Furniture moved and replaced on protective pads 0 Trained, professional, fully insured local operator

o Satisfaction guaranteed

PVCu cladding & guttering

(D Stain removal treatment

10 year guarantee, grant work and insurance claims

Also pressure cleaning of walls and patios Car & caravan valetirig November special: 50% off normal prices

30 years experience

Tel: 01793 524359 Mobile 0378 912 424

DRIVER TRAINING AN iiWjoiSj t1!j=

Tel: 01793 700700 or 751061 24hrs answerphone

Ltd.

Computerised theory training makes learning easier and more ENJOYABLE! Awarded lop Three - limes supplement training awards for 1997

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines Tumble Driers Twin Tubs, etc.

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

WASHCARE 01793 - 643785 CONSERVATORIES CRYSTAL CONSERVATORIES

For details, call 01793) 616333 or 434019 after 5pm

MAINTENANCE

&udett éeazea€ Se?"

PETE'S MULTIFIX

From a 13 amp fuse, cleaner bag or consumer unit to fridges, freezers or vacuum cleaners . we offer a fast, efficient and personal service.

Call the man that

Call us FREE 0800 146 455

11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378

can for all your painting & decorating, glazed tiling,kitchen fitting, carpentry, coving, property maintenance Tel: 01793 877859 or 0836 799614

SKIP HIRE

TV REPAIRS

TV REPAIRS

NORMAN GRAW TV & VIDEO SERVICES TV, VIDEO & SATELLITE REPAIRS

GOGGLEBOX

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

+ FREE Call-Out + FREE Estimates + FREE Guarantee + FREE Phone call on: FREEPHONE 0800 783 5758

Covers the full DSA Syllabus Start before your 17th Birthday Used by many local driving schools

Only 5 minutes from West Swindon

Full 8-10 hours of supervised training that could cost less than a driving lesson

Ample free parking

To find out more,

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

ALL REPAIRS GUARANTEED

Freephone 0800 - 387613 Tel: 731610 • 8am - 8pm

For a local efficient service,

Ring Swindon 643350

GK PECORATORS

Flooring, Electrics, Plasterwor all inclusive in our quotes

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

DECORATOR

TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE FREEPHONE 0800 783 5758

Tel: 01793 701394 Interior & exterior painting and decorating Ceramic tiling Coving. Dado rails No job too big or too small Free estimates and friendly service ODD JOBS THE ODD JOB MAN Small building work, carpentry, joinery, painting & decorating, fitted wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fitted

"No job too small" Very reasonable prices Free estimates

Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793-886022

WILL WRITING

WILLS Professionally drawn by

The Andrews Partnership Tel: (01793) 642245 A professionally prepared will can avoid delay and distress for your family

From £25.00 inc.

Home visit service from £35.00 inc.

37

The Link Magazine. November 1998

Shop managers jump for Chalet School BUILDING PLANS Drawings Local ority Approvals Independent Advice Kitchen Design xo Domestic Extensions & Alterations a speciality

0

Personal Service

Carolyn Phillippo BA (Arch) Swindon 721535

DECORATOR

Professional painter, decorator & ceramic tiler All interior and exterior work undertaken For free estimates

call Paul on Tel: 1ii236O9 or 771628 PLUMBING

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • • • • • •

Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Outside taps Power showers Bathroom installations Maintenance contracts All plumbing work undertaken 2966

Reliable service, realistic prices Tel: 01793 881905

Mobile: 0973 663367

Make on impact in over 18,000 homes in Swindon West &

Noah

with

To advertise in Service S&tor, oll (01193) 811181

Mark Oliver of Haydon Wick has raised £522 for the Chalet School by jumping out of plane with colleague James Carrington.

It was James who suggested the parachute jump, though he had not decided on a charity. Mark, Manager of Sports Factory at West Swindon Centre, immediately suggested the Chalet School for very personal reasons.

His son Mikey, now 6, has cerebal palsy and started conductive education at the Chalet School aged 20 months. Although he still needed a frame to help him walk, Mikey was able to move on into James Carrington, centre and Mark Oliver,far right, and his son Mikey, centre mainstream education at Robert left, with staff and children of the Chalet School Le Kyng School when he was four and a half.

Conductive education is a highly successful group teaching approach used with children who have mobility problems. It helps Repairs, Sales, Rentals them to cope with everyday life VTR, Audio, Camcord, and be more independent. SwinTel: 01793 703188 don is exceptionally lucky to have M/ Wave, Satellite, Aerials M/PH: 0468 682828 its own local provision, largely funded by the health and education departments of Swindon BorE. ough Council.

However, each year, the Chalet Extensions, loft conversion, / School needs to raise at least £2,000 to pay for special equipment, specialists in all types of building & plastering speech therapy and staff training.

All work full insured Mark and James' donation will make a real difference.

Contact Dave on 01793 488470 Head teacher Mary Topping said, "for parents to continue with their support like this is tremendous. But I'm glad it was them who jumped, not me."

Mark is glowing in his praise of what the Chalet School achieved with Mikey. "They gave him a good start in life." So when the idea of the parachute jump came up he saw it as in ideal opportunity to give something back.

Of the jump, Mark said, "1 wasn't I/.h looking forward to it but it was good fun." u ___._i " .

I :1 I ., 'II kE He is now considering whether to continue his highflying exploirts by doing a bungee jump.

FRANK GREGORACE TV AND VIDEO CIV,

Hillside Building Services

()

SUPERGLIDE WARDROBES

76ectooø 9 -,

r'•"

'

'•

•-'

.•

Seen a photo you want?

rZP

Pictures in The Link are taken in colour, even if they appear in black and white.

Copies are available at £1.50 for 6 x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." To get a copy(ies), send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 713D. Specify the month and page the photo appears on, with brief description, and don't forget your name, address and telephone number. Photos will be mailed within two weeks.

r

duuililU

'-

* Superb sliding door wardrobes

all made to measure in our workshops * Door panels in laminates, / jar iM real wood veneers, mirrors * We can also supply and install: fitted kitchens & bedroom furniture * Over 40 finishes available Call now for * Agents for Hideaway wall beds

free estimate on 01793 ~Installed in just one dayjI 861584 _-

-....

38

The Link Magazine • November 1998

COOPERS CHEMIST WEST SWINDON CENTRE Fine fragrances, toiletries, ear piercing

etc.

APS, developing and printing, One free 35mm 24 exp film with every 35mm roll developed on the premises

Tel: 872033 Open 7 days a week Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm, Sat 9am - 6pm, Sun lOam - 3pm

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integrity

Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS I0.30AM AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

& PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTRE All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Srlan on 849731

Patients to participate in practice The Ashington House Surgery in Westlea wants patients to tell them what they think of their service.

The Westlea practice is setting up a Patient Participation Group.

With considerable changes taking place in the National Health Service, they hope this will provide patients with a forum through which they can influence what happens.

At present, practice manager Sandra Walklett is collecting the names of anyone interested. There will then be an inaugural meeting early in November. Those present at this meeting will decide how they would like the group to develop. Time commitment to the group will be entirely up to individuals.

"The important thing for us is that the patients have a voice within the practice," said Sandra.

To know more without commitment, you can call Sandra Walklett on 614840 or fill in a form at the practice. She will then make contact when a date has been set for the first meeting.

in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Zone of peace

tist moves to village centre The Wilkie and Wilkinson dental practice has relocated from the West Swindon Health Centre to the first floor of Ramleaze House at Shaw Centre.

Now known as the Shaw Village Dental Practice, partners Anne Wilkie and John Wilkinson are being joined by Brigitte Wilkinson.

Opening day is 3 November and the practice can be contacted on 877422.

Family project holds annual meeting Anyone who would like to know more about West Swindon Family & Community Project is welcome to attend their annual general meeting on Monday 9 November.

The Project, based at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, runs a wide range of groups and activities, from regular coffee mornings and a pre-teen youth group to summer outings and holidays. It also offers support to local families who find themselves under pressure for whatever reason.

The West Swindon Advice Point, based at the project, provides benefits information and advice.

The project is managed by a voluntary management committee, all of whom are local people, who work closely with the small staff team. A number of volunteering opportunities exists.

Displays, information and a buffet lunch will be available at the AGM, which starts at 1230pm in Freshbrook Church. For further information, call 871303.

Bahá'is of Swindon invite Married, single, young or old The you on an inspiring journey of something for all ages at the heart to the Tranquillity Zone.

A spiritually enlightening experience and an oasis of peace and 00 Worsley Road serenity, the Tranquillity Zone will be held in at the Health Hydro on 12 November, 730pm, 13 Novem-4 r) ber, 10am, 1pm and 730pm.

Dates in December: 3rd, 730pm, building with peopLe and 4th, at lOam, 1pm and 730pm.

All welcome and entry is free.

Sundays at lOam & 6.30pm For further details please con- Charity shop help and For further information of tact 873684/873877. other meetings ring: 873050 wheelchair pushers "Meditate profoundly ... that you or call at the Church office wanted may inhale the sweetness of a spiritual and imperishable fragrance." Age Concern Swindon is appealPeople have found the real Bahá'u'lláh ing for volunteers to help at the meaning to life - Have You? Age Concern Charity shop at 51 Fleet Street.

Help is desperately needed on Thursdays, Fridays or Saturdays.

If you can help contact Alex Mullins, Volunteers Co-ordinator All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am at Age Concern Swindon, 14 Milton Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Road or telephone 692166 Holy Trinity Shaw -10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) Wanted! Wheelchair pushers and home visitors St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Age Concern Swindon is lookRevd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 ing for volunteers to push older Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 people in wheelchairs or visit peo(also Free Church minister for the parish) J p le in their own homes. You only Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 need a couple of hours a weeks. (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way) Volunteers are needed all over Swindon.

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lyd lards If you can help, contact Alex • •t Bas I • • • •: ar a a iurch Mullins at the address above.

yvange,,

c

OCAL CHURCHES

Agenda 21 issues to be put before Swindon people Over the next year, Swindon Borough Council will be asking people what might be done to improve the quality of life for our community, both now and for future generations.

At the beginning of October, Sean Spencer-Wort took up post as Local Agenda 21 Co-ordinator.

Previously the council's recycling officer, his brief is to begin to prepare an Agenda 21 Strategy for Swindon.

Initially he expects to spend a short period looking at what has been achieved elsewhere, both in the UK and abroad. He will also be meeting with local groups and public consultation will follow in mid-1999.

Sean stressed that he is keen 'to start from what the public want,' rather than presenting a draft proposal for discussion.

Agenda 21 is an international declaration, signed by world leaders at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.

It is a commitment to 'sustainable development' which means 'development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.'

Put simply, Agenda 21 is about assuring quality of life both for ourselves and for our children and grandchildren.

To develop a local strategy, Sean will be looking at 'what we do already, what we need to do and how we're going to get there.' He will be taking an overview of the social, economic and environmental factors that impact on our lives.

His aim is to bring the focus of sustainable development to all areas of the Borough's work For further information on Swindon's Local Agenda 21, you can contact Sean on 466444.

Democracy, PR and freedom of information 21st Century Swindon Forum holds a Public Meeting on Tuesday 10 November, 7pm at the Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon (between Broad Street and Manchester Road).

Andrew Puddephatt, Director of Charter 88, will talk about democratic rights, freedom of information and proportional representation.

For more information call Jean Saunders on 783040

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine' November 1998

Schools win shade for playgrounds

ENTERPRISE WORKS

Three West Swindon youngsters have between them have won 90 trees in a competition aiming to help children stay safe in the sun.

Joanne Phelan, 9 of Brook Field age them to enjoy and look after School, Lee Dunham, 10, Westlea trees and to practice sun safety.

The competition, organised by School and Kayla Collier, 8, Oliver Tomkins Junior School, were the Swindon Council's Health and among eight winners in the 'Grow Public Protection Unit and Great Western Comniunity Forest Team, Your Own Shade' competition.

As well as the 30 trees for each was designed to help raise sun school, which will be planted in awareness in schools and to enNovember by the children and courage children to think about their classmates, they won a host the important role trees play in of fun personal prizes to encour- providing shade from the sun.

The Mayor of Swindon, coun Brian Ford, presented the Grow Your Own Shade winners with certificates on 30 September. From left, Lee Dunham, Kayla Collier, Joanne Phelan, with Eunice Salmon, public health officer and Heather Lilley from the Great Western Community Forest team

(Factory for the disabled) FENCING PANELS & TRELLIS CONCRETE OR WOODEN POSTS ALL ACCESSORIES PATIO SLABS & PLANTERS GREENHOUSE STOCKISTS A WIDE VARIETY OF SHEDS & SUMMER HOUSES MADE TO ORDER OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS COMPETITIVE PRICES FREE LOCAL DELIVERY B ON ORDERS OVER £50 Units 1A & 1B, Gipsy Lane Busness Park, Gipsy Lane, Swindon SN2 6DT

Tel: (01793) 616288 Fax: (01793) 542235

Landscaping, Patios, Paths & Ponds, Fencing, Clearance & General Maintenance &I&c1ota/l

Tel: 01 793-702076

195/7 Rodbourne Road, Swindon

Tel: 523262

SKIPS 2, 2,

3, 4, 5

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10kg coal

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20kg coal

£3.40

10kg coalite

£3.25

20 kg coalite

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Net of logs

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Firewood bundle

5 metres draught excluder 5 metres wide draught excluder Letter box Door brush

1 litre aniti-freeze

Sop £1.35

2 litres anti-freeze

£2.45

De-icer

59p

85p £1.49 £2.15 £1.85

Handy Gas: same day free delivery

For a free quote, tel:

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN? No job too srr11 Give me a r1 for a free qte.

Contact John Wadsworth on Swindon 751317 4,w). *

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board!

yards capacity 5 days given to fill skip

Freephone

4 litres paraffin

• Grass cutting • Shrubs & bushes pruned • Fencing • Garden clearance • No job too small

AM! Panels/Gates

2.3 tonne Mini-digger for hire

FREE GAS WHEN YOU PURCHASE A NEW CABINET HEATER 2nd fill of gas free

RCS

874806 or 0467 394098

Mr Rotavator Creative Gardens

RON'S STORES

I

GARDEN SERVICES

Get your garden fit

LOW COST WINTER WARMTH WITH

39

• Block Paving • Patios, Paths, Turfing • Hedging & Mowing Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation Tel: (01793) 526571

FOR A FAST QUALITY SERVICE AT COMPETITIVE PRICES WOODWORKING • SOFT/HARDWOOD • PLYWOOD CHIPBOARD • MDF SKI RTINGS ARCHITRAVES • PLANED & MOULDED TIMBER • DELIVERY SERVICE • TRADE & RETAIL WELCOME Swindon (01793) 511335 Fax 542470 Open Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm Sat 830am - 12 noon

Unit 23 Kendrick Ind. Est. (Off Barnfield Rd.), Swindon

Wine & Dine with

40

CHRISTMAS AT

Hardings Restaurant Celebrate the run up to Christmas the tjiincse Wr We take great pleasure in presenting, for your entertainment, our troupe of dancers, magicians, acrobats and traditional Chinese cabaret this festive season

There is still time to book for pre-Christmas lunch/dinner.

Parties of 2 to 20 people catered for 25th November to 24th December CHRISTMAS EVE

Enjoy a mouthwatering five course meal and then sit back and enjoy a magical evening

Festive dinner by candlelight

Bookings are now being taken for Christmas Day and New Years Eve.

CHRISTMAS DAY

Lunchtime menus start from just £18 per person.

Telephone or call in for a leaflet.

English and vegetarian options available.

ail',,Lse (txperknce

Gastronomic 5 course lunch

To book, call 01672 841555

Hardings at PARKLANDS

Peatmoor, West Swindon. Telephone 01793 877888 1

Open 7 days a week: 12 noon to 2pm & 6pm to 11pm All prices are subject to a 10% service charge

BOOK NOW: LAST FEW DATES AVAILABLE

St George Marlborough Wiltshire

Party time is upon us. Book that table for an intimate meal, or for a family outing.

And if you are making arrangements for a large party of friends or work colleagues, call one of the

Win a meal for A yolilig chef living in West Swindon is serving up tantalising tasty dishes at his very own restaurant.

Nigel Harding, 26, right, moved to Wiltshire a few months ago to open Hardings at Parklands Hotel, Oghourne St George.

After renting a flat near his kitchen whilst getting the restaurant running as he wants it, Nigel and his wife and baby daughter have moved to Middleleaze.

He has worked with well known chef Gary Rhodes, but Nigel's main training has been under the tutelage of Ready, Steady Cook's Phil Vickery at The Castle Hotel in Taunton.

He describes his style of cooking as modern traditional English cuisine, characterised by robust sauces and subtle flavours. His roastchump of lamb with basil mash potatoes and red wine sauce is well worth a try.

Where possible Nigel uses only fresh local Wiltshire produce.

IIø

OOO11

:

Book your Christmas party NOW!!

Why not celebrate Christmas with us?

For just £9.95 you can enjoy a two course lunch, with coffee and a mince pie included.

Or for just £12.95, enjoy a three course evening meal, with coffee and a mince pie included.

Call now to make your booking

BROOKHOUSE FARM Middleleaze Drive, Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon Tel: (01793) 874223 Fax: (01793) 877310

rlr The Link Magazine restaurants on these two pages.

They might just have some space left.

And remember, whilst booking the restaurant, order a taxi or make arrangements to share a car.

41

4r iihiiiujbrukr Tq . r litaltraut & Tsar

two at Hardings

Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett, Swindon Tel: (01793) 852357 Excellent beers & wholesome house wines

For the finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking and South East Asian Cuisine Try our superb menu

5 course meal £13.50 per head

Tasty Competition To win a meal for two (excluding drinks) in the pleasant country setting of Hardings, all you have to do is write to The Link, address on page 2, and tell us which well known chefs Nigel Harding has worked with. Closing date: 16 November.

i'—

For an evening meal in pleasant surroundings, try our own: c Lamb Demerara c Chicken Cognac Salmon Citrus To name just a few of our special delights all prepared at the Bolingbroke Sunday lunchtime roast

Menu available on request Fully Licensed

Open Tuesday to Sunday 12noon - 2.30pm; 7pm - 10.30pm. Closed Monday.

53 Devizes Road

Booking advisable for our 30 cover restaurant

Swindon Tel: (01793) 521515

Christmas menu available from 1st to 24th December by booking only

-

Ift

I I I

REOPENING 4 NOVEMBER AFTER MAJOR REFURBISHMEN Book your Christmas lunch/party now to avoid disappointment Wide selection of exclusive Christmas set dinners from £16 per person

* * CHRISTMAS BUFFET * * * I I

Introducing Sunday lunchtime and evening buffets we have a variety of appetisers including crispy duck, seaweed, spare ribs & a wide selection of main course dishes and desserts along with many other choices, eating as much as you like.

Served from 12noon to 2pm lunchtime and 630pm to 10.30pm evenings (at £15.50 per head) Every Sunday from 29 November • 10% off lunchtime banquets Entertainment to Christmas: Sunday evenings, Jazz night with Bass Sax • Monday & Tuesday evenings, Party Night with Masquerade • Wednesday evenings, 60's and 70's music with Dave James, plus disco Superb food in sumptuous, air-conditioned surroundings. Large and small parties catered to,:

December Special - 1st and 2nd December: 20% off meal prices

. Tel: 01793 523570

1.,

Swindon Rendezvous, Theatre Square, Swindon •

—

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42

The Link Magazine November 1998

Ethnic minorities get to grips with new technology

MEMORY GRAPHICS CARDS •CD ROM

r7o, ,&O~,

The success of a Swindon organisation in bringing computer skills to ethnic minority groups has been recognised with an award in a national competition.

Swindon charity FEMO (the Federation of Ethnic Minorities & Organisations) has been named South West Regional Winner of a competition organised by BT and the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) as part of the launch of the NCVO website.

Along with eight other regional

For all your PC Upgrades Phone For A Free Quote

(01793) 485750 Anytime Prices include home delivery and installation

1/90- The new high speed lntetrtet connection standard now avala'o\e Subject to availability and machine specifications

Visit our website at: http:llgeneric-eye.com/thoughtwaves

Thamesdown Upholstery & Flooring Specialists in all types of domestic upholstery, carpets & vinyls Free estimates. 25 years experience Tel: 728243 • Mobile: 0973 697998

W I.. L S

Professionally drawn by

The Andrews Partnership (01793) 642245 A professionally prepared will can avoid delay and distress for your family

From £25.00 inc.

Home visit service from £35.00 inc.

k 1010,04 Fmotu~

\J

UNISEX HAIR & TANNING SALON

Look Fantastic is our client's first choice.

• Just 10 minutes from West Swindon. Large free car park right in front of the salon • Door to door service for disabled clients; home visits made by arrangement • Hair care consultations and carefully supervised use of our sunbeds

All because we care Also a warm welcome awaits our clients from the newest member of our team, Paula Hughes Unit 2, The Ellendune Centre, Wroughton Tel: (01793) 813288

IL1 jf\Tj,,41, NURSERY

& PRE-PREP

Individual Care Individual learning at Prior Park Preparatory School Cricklade, Wiltshire For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of school and holiday provision 745am 630pm) -

Please contact Shelagh Hanbury BEd (Hons) Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons)

TELEPHONE

(01793) 752600

winners, they will now go through to a final round to find a national winner.

FEMO has been running IT courses at basic, intermediate and advanced levels for members of ethnic minority groups for nearly three years. Priority is given to women and to those who are unemployed or on benefits. The next course starts in mid-November in West Swindon.

So that they can continue to develop their work, FEMO is appealing to local businesses for sponsorship and office space for training. If you can help, or if you would like to know more about their courses, call 07050 621764.

First community goes on the net Penhill is believed to be the first area of Swindon to establish a site on the internet.

Community activist Marilyn Beale said the site gives details of groups in the area and features information about Penhill Park and the Seven Fields Nature Reserve.

"Gathering the information for the site with our Neighbourhood Worker Lyn Thompson was very interesting. We hope that people will visit Penhill on the internet and find out positive aspects about living in this part of North Swindon. We are thrilled to be the first online estate Penhill moving into the 21st Century."

The site can be accessed via www.swindonlink.com -

Bible Society launches new site World news, quizzes, history, Bible translation, events and information feature on the Bible Society's new 90 page internet site, which can now be found at www.biblesociety.org.uk The organisation based in Westlea has put up 9 sections, each with different levels to visit.

One section is The Open Book, the national campaign which aims to enable the Church to open the Bible message to people in today's society.

Other stories include: Bible Society's links with royalty, its work with prisoners, bikers, students, the creative arts, and details of its work with popular Christian writer Adrian Plass.

The site also links to other relevant Christian websites including Bible Societies around the world where the text may be in a variety of languages.

-

Who was the first railway doctor?

Reader Sheila Povey points out that the first GP to treat GWR railway workers was not who we claimed last month. She writes: According to the photo' caption on page 4 of the October Link, 'the first doctor of the GWR Medical Fund was Stuart Keith Rea.' Swindon, the Legacy of a Railway

Town, published by HMSO in 1995 states 'another early tenant was Stuart Keith Rea, surgeon and brother of the Swindon works manager Minard Rea. Stuart leased the shop on the corner of London Street and High Street from December 1846, probably for use as a surgery and dispensary'.

However, on 30November 1786, the Rev. Humphrey Evans, curate at St Mary's Church, Lydiard Tregoze, married Elizabeth lies, daughter of John Iles of Studley Farm, Lydiard Tregoze. In his will of 1814 Rev. Evans bequeathed to his spinster daughter Catherine £1,000 in trust as a marriage settlement.

I have not yet been able to trace a marriage between a Charles James Fox Axford and Catherine Iles Evans, but in 1820 Axford purchased the property in Old Swindon, known as Eastcott Manor House (where the greetings card shop now stands). His money: 'being a settlement made previous to the marriage of Catherine Iles Evans, his wife, which was soon after solemnized'.

When Apsley House was built in Bath Road (now Swindon Museum) the Axfords moved in.

The 1841 census for Bath Road gives: Charles James Fox Axford aged 50, surgeon, as head of the household, wife Catherine and a 20 year old son in residence.

In 1844 a William Read completed a terrier of land and houses in the Parish of Swindon (WRO 2862/1) giving a full list of all persons occupying the town. Entry 38: Bath Road, gives CJF Axford, proprietor, occupying a house, garden stable and gig house.

At the same time, the entry for Bath Street on the GWR estate gives Entry 874: Axford Charles James Fox as occupier of I Bath Street.

This suggests to me that Axford was employed as a surgeon by the GWR from at least 1844, two years before Stuart Rea became the medical fund doctor, until his death in September 1845.

He is buried in the church yard at St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze. His grave is inscribed: 'Sacred to the memory of Charles James Fox Axford late of Swindon in this County, surgeon who departed this life on the 3rd September 1845, aged 55 years.'

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • November 1998

Slide show on new Swindon Society book There's a chance to see the pictures featured in a new book about old Swindon at a slide show and talk organised by The Link.

Swindon Society member David Bedford will talk about Swindon - A Sixth Collection at Link Centre Arts Studio on Thursday 12 November.

The slide show starts at 730pm and costs £1.50 on the door.

Proceeds from the evening will go to the St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park, building fund.

The sixth book in the very popular series produced by the Swindon Society is a fascinating collection of images and descriptions of the town in past days. Included are pictures of people at work and at play, buildings long gone but still remembered, street scenes and important events captured by local photographers.

Victoria Books of Wood Street, Old Town will be selling copies of the book at E9.99 on the evening. St Mary's Church building fund will receive 10% of sales.

43

ROTTEN WOOD? PEELING PAINT DRIPPING GUTTERS?

SOLUTION A SIXTH SELECTION

Winners The six winners of the competition for 'Swindon - A Sixth Selection' in the October Link are: Hilda Honey, Pleydell Rd, Old Town; Mrs Stone, George Tweed Gdns, Shaw; Mrs Potton, Marigold Cl., Early Swindon Photographers Woodhall Pk; Isobel Dark, Buryfield, Lydiard Millicent, Elaine Maloney, Slide show & talk by Robert Dickinson of Bath Road Museum Godolphin Close, Freshbrook; Henry Swindon Society monthly meeting. Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street Smith, Whitefield Cres, Peatmoor.

Wednesday 11 November, 7.30pm

Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FREE SURVEY NO DEPOSIT Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted £ 50 £115 20' fascia & gutter fitted £175 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £110 20' fascia & soffit (prices correct at time of publication)

THE if1TTIN CREW For a free quote

Tel: 827494 anytime

Visit our Showroom at Okus Trading Estate, Swindon

44

The Link Magazine • November 1998

GARY WILKINSON DUNCAN CAR SPARES

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP GUIDE TO MOTOR SERVICING & REPAIRS

COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH -

PARTS REMOVED BY OUR OWN PERSONNEL

YM

TEL: 01793 - 820000 UNIT 59 THORNHILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience

K'A•R

Cars, Motorcycles, Class 7 01793 428430 More than just your local bus company

A

al g & Welding ?palrs MQT ReF &'Servicith

/

Tel: (01793) 480700 2a Station Road, Swindon

Corporation Street, Swindon SN1 1 DS

CAR AUDIO SERVICES Repair and service to all makes of car radios and cassettes de-code service available Tel: (0 1793) 480544 Mob: 0374 935344 Unit 2,Axis Trading Estate, Westmead, Swindon

SWINDON'S LEADING AUTO CENTRE

Lucas

AUTO GROUP LTD. SWINDON'S LEADING AUTO CENTRE

TRADE PRICES ON ALL CAR PARTS & ACCESSORIES (On production of this advert)

L

'O86O8O8O6l

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 0498 611923

MmOoTs

AA

Unit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon

0179342I125

(No VAT to pay)

3-C

Thamesdown

Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying M.o.T. Repairs and Welding Free Estimates

• ALTERNATORS 4 BATTERIES + BRAKING • FILTERS 4 HEADLAMPS 9 IGNITION 9 SPARK PLUGS 4 STARTERS

RVS AUTOPARTS 514455 Please call in or phone the above direct line for personal assistance and advice • Open 7 days a week, ample car parking

Additional special offers and discounts throughout the year - please ask for details

RELIABILITY • VALUE • SERVICE Hawksworth Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 1 EE

RELIABILITY • VALUE • SERVICE

(close to the Oasis Leisure Centre)

AA

Lucas

PACJ

AA

Lucas

A

N AUTO GROUP LTD. SWINDON'S LEADING AUTO CENTRE

10% OFF REPAIRS & SERVICING (On production of this advert)

AUTO GROUP LTD. SWINDON'S LEADING AUTO CENTRE

£10 OFF YOUR NEXT MOT (On production of this advert)

MOT • SERVICING • REPAIRS FLEET • DIESEL & ELECTRICAL SPECIALISTS

SERVICING • REPAIRS • SPECIALISTS IN DIESEL & ELECTRICAL

CARS • VANS • CLASS 7 • CAT'S. DIESELS

RVS GARAGE 01793 613448

RVS GARAGE 01793 613448

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine ' November 1998

Help Age Concern with excellent low cost gift Retired businessman Cohn Griffiths from Toothill is offering a very useful little item which will make a great gift, and raise money for charity.

On clearing out his garage, he nifiers, acquired when he ran his came across boxes of optical mag- own company. Cohn contacted The Link about making them available for sale. He was happy to take up our suggestion that a donation be made to Age Concern in return for free advertising.

The magnifiers are credit card size, wafer thin and fit easily into a wallet or handbag. They are ideal and convenient for people with poor sight. People with good sight will also find them ideal when type is too small, or there is poor light, for example, when trying to read a road map in the car at night. There Co/in Griffiths holding up some of the magnifiers he is selling

Safe place for learner drivers Driving a car is a dangerous activity at the best of times, yet there are few opportunities for learners to get accustomed to driving in a safe place before being allowed out on the public roads.

Fieldtrack holds regular sessions to learn how to coordinate the use at Wroughton airfield for under of gears, clutch, brakes and steer17s and learners accompanied by ing. It's an ideal place for novices to gain the many skills needed to parents or instructors.

Fieldtrack director Mary Boyle drive a car."

John's Motoring School of Swinsaid that many parents are anxious for children to handle a vehi- don is offering tuition at cle before driving on a public road. Wroughton by prior booking. To Wroughton has plenty of space find out more, call 01222 704997.

Pr

r

I

are dozens of other occasions when a magnifier could be helpful, such as reading telephone books or pools forms.

Buy one now for personal use, or give one to somebody who might find a magnifier useful.

They cost only ÂŁ1.50, with 50p going to Age Concern Swindon which is a registered charity.

To buy a magnifier, send a cheque for ÂŁ1.70 (inclusive of 20p postage) made out to CA Griffiths, 43 Alnwick, Toothill, Swindon.

45

FIELD TRA CK Driving experience iI,Ili for under 17s and other learners Teach your child to drive on a safe road course at Wroughton Also qualified tuition in dual-control cars available

For dates and times, telephone or fax 01222 704997 any time

BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE The BEST, BAR NONE, for quality, price and service

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

Ill

WIR

1,

C

Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Sheppard Street, Swindon

FREEPHONE 0800 2981912

.

I P. , ,

At Yo,ur Local Main Dealer ARRIVA Ford Fleming Way Roundabout, Swindon

Tel. 01793 520002 Cocklebury Road, Chippenham

Tel. 01249 653 255

.

SALES OPENING TIMES: Mon to Fri 830am till 700p"' Sat 830am till Spot. Sun 1000am till 400pm.

Car shown for illustration purposes only.

46

The Link Magazine November 1998

Freelance Hairdresser For details, contact Joanne

on 845752

WASHING MACHINE, COOKER & MICROWAVE REPAIRS • ame day service • Guaranteed repairs • For a friendly, helpful service, call J Martin 1 Alnwick, Toothill

'JONELLI' Magical entertainer for children's parties and adult shows featuring: illusion, comedy and mystery

Tel: 727619

Tel: 694930

V

DUNCAN

SELF DRIVE HIRE 7fe€'z'4sc4

egt4' eos ft4

Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

CHECKfirst FINANCE SECURED LOANS MORTGAGES/RE-MORTGAGES COMMERCIAL FINANCE WRITTEN QUOTATIONS ON REQUEST. YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR LOAN SECURED ON IT

Tr 01793840012

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel (01793) 791388

LiL1L For Sale Boys Raleigh Mega bike, suit 5-8 yrs, exc cond, £55 ono. Tel: 870007 Ladies Raleigh 12 speed racing bike, drop handlebar, 531 tubing, alloy wheels, rack, burgundy, £60 ono. Tel: 491541 Boys mountain bike, suit 5-8yrs, exc cond, £30. Tel: 870327 2 medium bicycle helmets, immaculate, proceeds to Prospect, £5 each ono. Illuminated wall mirror, circular, 24", never unpacked, £18 ono. Tel: 875474 Boys bike, 16in, Raleigh Extreme, mint cond, suit 6-9 yr old, tyres fantastic tread, £40. Tel: 642464 MacLaren pram/pushchair/carrycot, rain cover, tray, leg warmer, quilt, vgc, £75 ono. Tel: 870696 Double buggy Chicco 3-point lie back, suitable from birth, with raincoveras new, £75. Tel: 881291 Pushchair, 5 position, washable seat, lockable swivel wheels, shopping tray, hood, cosy toes, forward or rear facing, folds flat, never used, unwanted gift, £65.

Tel: 881353 Jigsaw puzzles, 500+ pieces, all complete, assorted subjects & prices. Tel: 874034 Goosebumps book sets, 1-8,16-21, 2732 plus two special editions, hardly read, £30. Tel: 642742 Avant Naturally sterilizer, £10. Baby clothes, £5. Cot bumper, £1.50. Girls clothing, 6-8 yrs, £12. Heavy brass standard lamp, £20. Tel: 771640 Toddler plastic ELC slide, £10.

Comfifolda baby door-bouncer, £7. Double tandem buggy, £25. Tel: 882429 Extending fireguard, suitable for most fire types, incl fittings, £7. Tel: 878415

For Sale MacLaren 3 in 1 pram: ie pram, carrycot, pushchair, cosy toes, change bag, raincover, cat net, sun canopy & covers, all inclusive, vgc, £150 ono. Tel: 886831 3 walk through stairgates, £8 each plus one extension piece for wider fit, £3. Tel: 878415 Cot Cosatto Christie white, solid beech, drop side with castors one end, coconut fibre mattress inc, £40. Tel: 878415 Brand new still in boxes, foot spa, £15 ono, Carmen facial sauna, £5, electric hair waxing kit, £5, brand new suede jacket, £30. Tel; 611818 Dynamix dual action stepper, tones upper and lower body simultaneously, nearly new, genuine reason for sale. Tel: 876370 Roller blades size 7 and 4, £5/pair. Computer game TV Boy 126 games, £12. Tel: 875489 Sunbed: 5ft Scanda Sot Super canopy sunbed, 5 tanning tubes, exc cond, timer and adjustable height, £65. Tel: 873594 Ski suit, lady's size 12, as new, cheaper than hiring, £35. Tel: 496802 Adidas coat, size 7-8 yrs approx, exc cond, £15. Ijmbro football boots size 4, as new, boxed £12.50. Tel: 487751 Delonghi espresso/cappuccino coffee maker, unwanted gift, boxed, unused, £20. Tel: 877022 LEC dehumidifier suit 2-3 bed home, vgc, £135 ono. Tel: 874764 Animal safari quilt, curtains, lamp shades; dinosaur quilt, curtains, lamp shades, £15 per set. Tel: 729312 Five piece suite, beige dralon, 2 corners, 3 single, exc cond, £185. Double and single matching dark oak wardrobes, £45.

Tel: 771640

JUST THE JOB

Cars • Vans • Lutons • Tall-lifts

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

272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

YM

LL! LL For Sale

Marble effect white fireplace, £130. ono.

Fridge freezer, £120. Easy chair, £5.

Step ladder, metal, £10. Tel: 421716 Curtains, 87 I x 144 w; 49 I x 48 w. 2 double duvet covers, valance, 7 pillow cases, Isle of Skye scenes, pale lilac, yellow, £25. Tel: 771640 3 seater settee and one chair, mink, £50.

Continental headboard, complete with side lights and drawers, £40. Tel: 876384 3 piece suite with removable covers, pastel shades, £550 ono. Tel: 874664 3 piece suite modern, blue, exc condition, £175. Pine rotating coat stand, £7.

Tel: 877746 3 piece suite, exc cond, green, blue, beige, cream, mottled pattern, £200. Tel: 887243 New sea green carpet 13' x 10' 6", unused roll end, sculptured pattern, woven backing, heavy domestic quality, £40. Tel: 871961 White kitchen units, vgc, £100, need to collect. Tel: 877073 G plan dark wood TV/video corner unit, £50. Dark wood 'Welsh' dresser, £80, both in exc cond. Tel: 770677 Single fold up bed with mattress, good cond, £35. Tel: 887907 White double glazed patio doors, exc cond, £50. Tel: 872555 Headboard 4'6", green dralon, vgc, £15.

Tel: 520211 Green and peach silk cotton three seater and two seater settees, v comfy, good cond, £175 pair. Tel: 873469 (eves) Dark cane furniture (2 seater + 2 chairs) with matching coffee table and wall unit, £80. Tel: 692620 Antique pine bedroom set, consisting 1 wardrobe, dresser & marble top washstand, offers. White cheval mirror & matching kidney shape dressing table, Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD offers, Tel: 882880 by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are New beech topped desk1200m 800m, published on a first come first served basis. top quality, still flat packed, delivery available, £100 ono. Tel: 421665 Pine bed with mattress, £70. Tel: 881425 Singer sewing machine in wooden table, £60. Tel: 705124 Electric typewriter vgc, £50. Matsui 800w microwave, vgc, £50. Double radiator, size 1 00c x 60cm, vgc, £55. Tel: 877022 Olympus AF-iTwin camera, exc cond, Tel: weatherproof, timer, telephoto, flash fillin, continuous shots, complete with batName & Address (not for publication) teries, strap and case, £25. Tel: 611818 Computer printer - Brother M-1109 impact dot matrix with spare ribbon, ink and LTck if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web site1 pin feed unit, good cond, £18. Tel: 770937

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads.

Tel: 822193 FREE PARKING Open Daily 830am - 530pm Sundays 830am . 930am

For Sale Garage sale - computer, typewriter and many other items. Tel: 615418 Snes games system, three control pads, 22 games, exc cond, £80 ono. Tel: 706029 486 DX125 PC 120MB hard disk, 10MB Ram, 1MB graphics card, SV6A colour monitor, mouse, £100. Tel: 700402 Packard Bell 486 PC computer, colour monitor and Epson printer. Tel: 727217 Left handed electric guitar, black Samick, ideal first guitar, good cond, £70. Tel: 721899 Saga Master System II, 2 control pads and 11 games, good condition, boxed, £25. Tel: 490128 Technics electric organ E22L, good cond, £100. Tel: 701670 Piano upright c/w stool, black vgc, £300.

Mig welder Clarice lOOT, no gas, hardly used, £125 ovno. Ansaphone: 887398 Gramophone-His Master's Voice, wind up, also 50 78s, immaculate condition, £70 the lot. Tel: 870439 Electric piano/keyboard Rolano EP7 6.25 octaves, new £700, almost unused, any reasonable otter for quick sale. Tel: 873577 Letts GCSE and Longman A Level Psychology study guides as new £5 each.

Tel: 488468 3 cartons spares for 2CV Citreon car, £10. Ladies quality dresses, 22/26. £4.50. Tel: 771640 Car roof rack will fit all types, new, £5.

Gas heater for wall, £10. Assorted roller blinds, beige & brown, £10. Wine making plastic drum with bits, £5. Pine bunk beds, needs new mattress, £50 ono. Tel: 422398 (h)/522307 (w) Rabbit hutch & run, vgc, £30. Early Learning climbing frame, vgc, £30.

Reebok step, new, £10. Tel: 871807 Dog kennel vgc, £35. New TV video cabinet with glass doors, £20. Tel: 613030

Missing Lost ginger torn with white socks, Ramleaze/Shaw area. Tel: 875184

Wanted Drum kit in good condition for boy lust learning to play. Tel: 701255 Cleaner required to clean two houses in Abbey Meads and Burghley Park, hours and pay negotiable, exc references required. Tel: 702690 Mother's help required in Burghley Park area, to pick up from school, light cleaning, tight cooking, four days a week, approx 3/4 hrs per day. Tel: 703423 Massage couch, preferably portable, price negotiable. Tel: 886291

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine. November 1998

47

Oliver St John returns to Lydiard House Last year Lydiard House was one of just six institutions nationally to be awarded a prestigious conservation award by the fine art greetings card publishers Woodmansternes, writes Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of Lydiard House.

The award, to conserve a recently returned portrait of Oliver St John 1st Viscount Grandison, enabled us to send the dirty and discoloured picture to expert conservators for cleaning and repair.

Oliver, who died in 1630, was a pivotal member of the St Johns family. The wealth and lands which he bequeathed to his nephew Sir John St John ensured the family's status and tenure of Lydiard for successive generations.

The east window in St Mary's church next to the house was commissioned by Sir John in memory and gratitude to his uncle and ben-

efactor. Sadly this 17th century smoke and fumes of the open fires, candles and oil window is itself lamps in now awaiting reLydiard House. pair after recent Earlier attempts mindless attacks to restore the picby vandals. ture this century Before conservation the porcreated more problems for trait of Oliver conservator was very dark Seonaid Wood with the armour by obscuring the an olive green original paint colour, the result work with stubof dirt and discolborn fillings and oured varnish overpainting. caused by years Now conof absorbing the

served and returned to the drawing room at Lydiard Oliver's portrait can be seen for its true worth.

It is a highly accomplished and life like portrait by the well known 17th century painter, Cornelius Jansens.

Looking carefully at it you can see that the sitter is pictured literally warts and all. Together with the many other portraits in the house, Oliver's picture which is the only one we have of him, provides the visible human link between the history of the house and the people who owned it for over 500 years.

Treasure forever a new partnership opportunity at Lydiard Park In October we launched Treasure Forever, our own Lydiard award scheme, writes Sarah Finch-Crisp, pictured right holding The Grandison Book.

Business community and interested societies are being invited to be part of Lydiard House by supporting projects which give greater public access and enjoyment of the house and its collections.

At Lydiard we are fortunate that the majority of the collections are on permanent display in the state

rooms but the rising cost of conservation and display services means that some fascinating objects remain hidden from view.

The Grandison Book is a rare 17th century manuscript which was compiled by Richard St George Clarenceux, King of arms to King Charles 1, and presented to Oliver Viscount Grandison. The beautifully bound volume contains genealogical tables based on those displayed on the triptych in St Mary's Church next to the house,

together with vivid illustrations.

In order to show this famous book to our visitors we need to raise £1,000 for a special display cabinet under the portrait of Oliver (above).

Since Lydiard House opened to the public in 1955 tracing and returning the original furnishings and pictures has been an ongoing commitment by the council. Treasure Forever gives the community at large the opportunity to assist in this fascinating project. To find out more, call into the house soon.

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