October 1991 Swindon Link

west Swindon's Magazine

EXPRESS CYCLE SPECIALIST

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PR9C PRcA49& 96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon

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EXCLUSIVE G.P & Pharmarcist told to quit Toothill's G.P Dr Kandy Kandiah and pharmacist Ralph Palmer have been told to get out of their premises by Thamesdown Council. The Council's housing committee wants to reclaim the houses in Deerhurst Way. They have been occupied as health facilities for the last fifteen years. However local councillor Ricky Midwinter has branded the decision taken without consultation as an 'absolute disgrace,' and is calling for support in a campaign to reverse the decision. "I'm shocked by the insensistive and autocratic attitude taken by the council. We've always strived to ensure there are facilities to go with houses. There are many elderly people and parents with young children who find it difficult, if not impossible, to go further afield. The social consequences of losing important medical provision in Toothill will be enormous. "The decision was taken in secret without consultation with local members. Now I'm calling on local people to support campaign to make the council back down." He pointed out that the Spa rcells surgery also run by Dr Kandiah will be threatened as well, because he is developing lists in both areas and one depends upon the other. The housing committee's decision goes before Thamesdown's ruling Labour group on Wednesday 9 October. Court Midwinter can be contacted on 873537.

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1 Turn to the centre pages where you'll find Swindon's first ever green' community map. Pull it out, leave the car behind and get out and discover the walk ways around West Swindon. 49 Also included is a guide on where to recycle waste. And there's also news on page 21 about two recycling experiments for local people to take part in

Choosing a school - A decision not to be taken lightly At this time of year parents all over West Swindon are preparing to visit secondary schools before making a choice for their children's future education. For the last three years The Link magazine has visited the three education authority secondary schools designated to take children from West Swindon, and St Joseph's Roman Catholic school. Each year we have taken a different approach in order to assist parents in their difficult decision. This year is the first time when exam results have been available from all three LEA schools. The headteachers from Braden Forest, Purton, Greendown at Grange Park and The Ridgeway at Wroughton have responded to our request to publish a summary of their results, which is

Fears for future of firework night party West Swindon's annual community bonfire night extravaganza at Toothill Farm in November could turn out to be a damp squib, unless people living in the area help organise it. The bonfire and fireworks display has been held for the last twelve years. The event has been growing over the last few years, with more fireworks, children's guy making workshops and entertainment being added to the evening. In the past only a handful of people organised the evening, with most of the burden falling on community workers from Thamesdown Council's Community Development Division. Now, greater ef forts are being made to spread the load and get more people involved. Neighbourhood worker Miriam Minty said that the bonfire event had become very popular, but at the same time more complex to organise. "Over 2,000 people enjoyed the event last year and

there's always a small band of volunteers availabletobuild thebonfire. But there are many jobs to be done in the two months leading up to it. "I'm sure there are lots of people in the area with the skills to keep the event going and develop it for the future." She said that there would still be a bonfire on 1 November but at a reduced level, unless volunteers come forward to help out. A meeting is being held on Wednesday 9 October, 7.30pm atToothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, for anybody who wants to get involved. Miriam Minty can provide more information on 871212 ext. 234 or 421821. 'The bright lights will really be put out in the West if the Toothill community bonfire night does not take place. ASDA stopped the West Swindon Centre aerial fireworks display after some minor injuries took place at the 1989 event.

accompanied by a short commentary. However statistics are at best a crude indicators of performance and at worst are open to all manner of interpretation and misreprèsentation, which then develops into myth about a particular school. We all know the famed adage about 'lies, damned lies and statistics'! What is certain is that all three schools are different in their character and history. Each is also different in terms of the resources allocated to it, experience of staff, range of subjects on offer, nature of the catchment area and so on. Our comment to this year's parents,and those following them is: use the information printed on pages 22 and 23 as a guide, visit the schools, look for what's behind the statistics and choose what is best for your child. Good luck.

Also this month Swindon Town F.C. captain Cohn Calderwood will be presenting the trophies at the Greendown School/Link Magazine community soccer tournament organised by parents. Details on page 13. *There are three pizza meals worth £45 to be won in our great Pizza Hut first birthday competition on page 28. It's easy. Have ago! .1

"Just to let you know about the diet. I've lost pounds!" '7 said yor could do it with the help of a Cambridge Counsellor."

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Under5s back in focus Things looked bleak last month for the long running and popular West Swindon Under 5s Festival. The stalwart volunteers who organised events in the last two years were moving on to other things as their children grew older. There were fears that the festival would be a fond memory if a new committee was not found. However a few new people appeared at the annual meeting of the West Swindon Focus on Under 5s held on 16 September. Not enough, but led by Audrey Hutchinson of Freshbrook and Christine Dams of Toothill, a new committee has been formed to try and stir up greater interest in the organisation of festival events next summer and other activities over the next few months. The Focus on Under 5s is holding a meeting on Friday 18 October, 9.30am in the Community Suite at the Link Centre for anybody interested in making life exciting for preschool children. Don't hold back, you're wanted! The first event planned is a Fire Workshop on 5 November along the lines of the well attended play workshops organised in the past. There will be painting, collage, making a rocket and a fire safety stand. It's free, but there will be a raffle and refreshments to pay for. Enjoy bonfire day to the sounds of happy chattering children. Details will be published next month and look out for posters.

Spooky fun Instead of trick or treating, try

these two Halloween events on Thursday 31 October: Halloween Ghost Train trips on the Swindon & Cricklade Steam Railway, 7pm to 9pm. Definitely not for the faint hearted or very small children. Supper included in train ride price. Adults: £4 Children: £2. Blunsdon station, three miles north of the West Swindon Centre on Blunsdon to Purton road.

Happy Halloween Horrors. Join the Lydiard Park Rangers for a frightening fantasy family walk. Prizes for the best pumpkin lamp and best costume. Start at 7pm from visitor centre, Lydiard Park. Adults 21.50; concessions 75p

YUED 11 Bringing it all together The first editionof our new monthly publication Swindon Wide is out and being eagerly read by people allover the town, and further afield. It brings together information on theatre, entertainment, music, sport and events - in one place and in advance. It's essential reading for anybody who wants to know what's going on in the town. Swindon Wide is available locally at the Link Centre and the library or through subscription, £5 for a year. Call us if you want a copy to look at.

AlAnk MRO

Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793

The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Contents Toothill 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park 7 Westlea 8 Shaw 10 At Your Library 12 - 13 Recreation 14- 18 Green Tendencies 19 Arts Scene 20 Local Lives 21 -31 News and Views 22-23 Education Matters 30 Letters & Small Ads.

it Apple Macintosh design, layout 4 and lasersettlng by Keystrokes Electronic Design

Wide range of patterns and colours available

Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly. Flagstone pattern being imprinted into fresh concrete

We lay it, you'll love it 'Phone for FREE colour brochure NOW 0793 - 851250 days 0793 - 855303 eves concrete with a difference!

Copy date for the November edition: 20th of October The November edition will be published on 31 October

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

3

Awards for firemen The Westlea firemen who came second in a National Extrication competition in August, as described on the front page of the September Link magazine, received certificates from the Chair of Wiltshire County Council Mary Salisbury at a presentation evening on 20 September. Also presented that evening were cheques totalling £921 raised at the Swindon premier of Backdraft at the MGM cinema. From left to right, Sister Ann Francis of the Odstock Burns Unit, Wiltshire Chief Officer John Craig, Mary Salisbury, chair of Wiltshire County Council, Neil Wright, chair of the Wilts. Fire Service Benevolent Fund, George Simmonds of the Wilts. Air Ambulance Service and John Kiel, manager of the MGM

HOMEOPATHY Hol ist ic & Natural The Medicine That Works For consultations and appointments in West Swindon, telephone Manjit Virik on 871621

toie. ',y ea', /f,9a ea X Ca e%vre&/ For local, quality introductions in the Swindon area contact © Swindon 487761

Link Centre Charity Market .Saturday 19 October Bargains galore at the stalls arranged by a variety of community groups at the monthly charity market. To book a stall, telephone the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234.

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Link Magazine gets in firemen's way All three Swindon fire stations took part in a disaster exercise in September to test the ability of firemen to administer first aid and stabilise casualties when they first arrive at an emergency. The Link magazine was invited to take part. 'Come along and act as an interfering press photographer and generally get in the way' I was told. Two carriages had been provided by British Rail and the firemen responsible for setting up the exercise had taken delight in smashing it up during the morning. When I arrived they were daubing drama students from NEW College with blood made from a mixture of powder paint, briefing them on the injuries they had and how they were to behave; slumped on tables, twisted as if thrown like a doll in an accident, shivering in shock. Members of the Casualty Union were also present, making themselves up with dreadful injuries of broken bones and deep cuts. Students had been recruited to act as the interferingpmssas well sol helped the brigade photographer who was also expected to shoot video. This was a good move as the 'press' were soon told to move back from the train so that the rescue could take place unhindered. Being an 'invisible' observer meant that I was able to see the firemen at work assessing the injuries, administering first aid and working out how to remove the casualties. Seeing them training to cope with accidents and emergencies was impressive. The blood spattered about and wailing from the students made the scene lifelike but it wasn't until one screamed 'I'm injured, why are you taking photographs' that the gap between role play and realism was closed. From then on, the quiet professionalism and the sweat pouring off the firemen tookonadifferentappearance. The fire crews had been training hard on individual aspects of casualty care and removal from emergency situations. The exercise in teamwork which brought it all togetherwas lateradjudged a success, giving Swindon's fire crews valuable experience in preparation for the real thing.

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TOOTH ILL

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The Toothill After School Club has places for children who need to be cared for after school every day until 6.15pm. Children are collected from Toothill and Oliver Tomkins School and are escorted to the club which meets at the Toothill Farm Centre, Bodiam Drive. A snack is provided for the children during the care session when they take part in an interesting programme of events including arts and crafts, cooking, sports activities, board games and environmental

activities. Plans for the future include settingup a conservation group, karate and football. The prices charged for care are competitive and the children have the benefits of spending their afternoons with friends in supervised group activities. The club will discuss what a parent can afford if they cannot meet the rates. To find out more about booking a place, telephone Karen Drake on 497756 or Belinda Harrington on 541411.

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Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food TakeAway Menu

Tel: 487055 Hours of Business Sunday 6 -11.3Oam Monday Closed all day Tuesday 5 -1130pm Wednesday 12 - 145pm 5- 1130pm Thursday 12 - 145pm 5- 11.3Opm Friday 12 - 145pm 5 - 1200am Saturday 12-2.00pm 5 - 1200am

OPEN ALL BANK HOLIDAYS (MONDAY)

Janet Freeguard acquires a taste for youth music with the help of, left to right, Teresa Barclay, Errol Williams, Oily Reed, Darren Howells, Danielle Bathe, Dawn Bathe and Charlotte Dixey

Teenagers in Toothill have somewhere to go again during the evenings. A drop-in session on a Tuesday at Toothill Community Centre started in September, about two years after the youth cafe that used to meet there closed down. The sessions are being organised by Janet Freeguard who recently joined the centre management committee. She is also supervisor at the playgroup but said she enjoys the contrastof working with very young children and with young adults. "I went onto the committee to do something for young people. They get a raw deal in the area and are always blamed if something wrong happens. The majority just want somewhere to go where they don't have to spend much money and they can be with their friends. "It's important for the community centre to provide for all age groups." The word is circulating that the centre is encouraging young people to use its facilities again, but having been criticised for their behaviour the first teenagers to use it were suspicious. Teresa Barclay said, "we haven't had anywhere to go for a longtime. The Link Centre is not in

our area and we don't have the money to use Shaw Ridge. We just want somewhere to be with our mates." Darren Howells said a youth club would get young people off the streets but adults had to give young people a chance. Errol Williams said the room would attract young people once a pool table arrives. The drop-in sessions at Toothill Community Centre is open to 12 to 18 year olds between 730pm and 9.45pm. Tea, coffee, soft drinks and music are available. Furtherevening sessions may be opened if there is interestand more volunteer helpers can be found.

Good take-up The session to issue Gold Cards to people in receiptofbenefitatToothill Community Centre on 10 September, as advertised in last month's Link magazine, was a great success. In just two hours 65 people had their photos taken and were given a card which entitles them to much reduced entry toThamesdown's recreation facilities. Plans are in hand to organise more sessions in the area.

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Long term value A name plate for Freshbrook Community Centre has been put up at last, seven years after the building opened. However the sign, pictured below, cost £700 to make and attach to the centre's front wall. The centre was designed and built by Thamesdown Council, but the sign was cut out to save costs at an early stage. Now, in response to pleas from the centre management committee for some kind of identifi-

cation,a green oval nameplate with brass lettering has been erected. A spokeswoman for Thamesdown said denied that thecost of the nameplate was excessive as it was a long term investment. "Signs on other buildings have not lasted and we have gone fora maintenance free solution. "We should save money in the long run at Freshbrook because we should be able to avoid maintenance and replacement."

Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am- 1pm 215pm - 630pm Tuesday 9am - 1pm; 215pm - 5pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

FRESH BROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE

Crisis meeting at community centre to prevent closure Freshbrook Communtiy Centre's Annual General Meeting on IlSeptembercould not takeplace because not enough people turned up. This means that the building might have to close if there is another poor attendence at a reconvened annual meeting on Wednesday 9 October, 8pm. The centre is leased by Thamesdown Council to a committee of volunteers called the Freshbrook Village Group (FVG) resident's association. All residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park are members of the association. The FVG Constitution requires the management committee to be elected annually and time's up. The last annual meeting took place 15

months ago which is the limit set in the Constitution. Centre manager Maureen Barker said the members of the management committee who wanted tostay on needed to have their position confirmed, whilst others want to give up but don't feel they can until replaced"The centre can't be taken for granted. It's a valuable resource which might be lost to the community if local people are not interested in running it." She added that people attending the annual meeting did not have to join the committee. The centre has a large and a small hail, two meetingrooms and a kitchen. The bar is leased to club members.

JUMBLE SALE

JUMBLE SALE

Saturday 5 October, 2.30pm Freshbrook Community Centre Proceeds to GWR Majorettes

Saturday 12 October, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre Proceeds to the Community Centre Repairs Fund

Centre bar looks for new members after big refit

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Bar chairman Tom Emmanuel, left, manager Jill Stapleton and Stephan Dudek, Director of the Bar Trading Company celebrate the reopening of the Freshbrook Community Centre social club

Freshbrook Community Centre's licensed bar has just had a £14,000 refit and new members are wanted to try out the friendly atmosphere and the great prices on offer. Although part of the centre, the barisa seperate trading entity and is paying for the refit by Pubs & Clubs of Bristol with a loan from a brewery. New furniture and fittings, new carpets and decor make the bar an attractive social gathering place. And for the first time there's an area set aside for playing darts. Bar chairman Tom Emmanuel said that the bar offered more of a social club atmosphere because it attracts people living in the cornmu-

nity. 'We're looking forward to seeing new members as well as welcoming previous members back." Membership of the bar, which starts from 1 October, is open only to people who live in Freshbrook and Grange Park. On tap are two bitters and two lagers including Carling Black Label, plus a wide range of bottled beers and spirits. There have been no price rises which means a pint of bitter costs just over £1. At present there are 260 members and there is room for more. Drop into Freshbrook Community Centre any evening and talk to the committee member on duty who will sign you up.

WESTLEA

Focus for community as centre opens Westlea now has decent community facilities, following the opening of thenewsocial hallon the school site. The Community Room, built next to Westlea school in 1984, has long proved inadequate and a restriction on the development of groups in the area. The hall opens up opportunities for new groups to develop. It has been funded by cash from McLean Homes who contributed £30,000 in return for planning permission for houses already built next to the Delta Tennis Centre. Thamesdown Council has put in a further £20,000 and a large room with a 60 person capacity, a small meeting room, kitchen, toilets and storage has been provided. Sue Bates,ChairofThamesdown's Community Development Committee, said the hail was an addition to the many social facilities provided by the council in West Swindon. "Times are difficult for local government at present; the financial pressures are huge. But we were determined to responded to needs and demands of Westlea people." Local councillor Ricky Midwinter, who has campaigned for better community facilities in Westlea, welcomed the opening of the hall. "The social hall will provide a focus for localpeopleand strengthen community life."

The Westlea Social Hall is now available for hire by local groups and for parties. Call Denis Onley on 526161 at Thamesdown for information. Coun. Sue Bates and Ricky Midwinter open the doors for Little Hands

7

Name the room

Start the week

Come up with a name for the Westlea Social Hall and win a £10 gift voucher. Capture community spirit by sending your suggestions to Denis Onley, Community Development Division, Thamesdown Council, Civic Offices, Swindon.

Little Hands, anew parent and toddler group for two year olds has started on a Monday morning in the new Westlea Social Hall. The group runs structured activities including singing, cutting, paintingand making, stories, as well as refreshments for everyone. Group coordinator Alison Barrett says the group has a very friendly atmosphere and there is already a waiting list. She suggests parents put their name down to join early. Little Hands meets on Monday from lOam to 1130am and Alison can be contacted on 873003.

Westlea School Bonfire & Fireworks Tuesday 5 November 6pm-7pm Guy competition, refreshments Tickets £1 adults 60p children from school office or on the gate

New club to provide care after school Westlea's long-planned for After School Club opens in the new social hail on Wednesday 9 October. Children will be collected from their classrooms and escorted next door where they will be cared for by playworkers Lyn Bell, CherryHobbs

and Sophie Prowse. All three have long experience in providing positive, stimulatingplay opportunities. The club is available to working and single parents, those who need a break and children who would like to join in the fun.

The Club will be open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 330pm to 5.30pm and children can attend forone, two or three sessions. There are some vacancies and application forms areavailable from Westlea School.

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Proprietors of Kitchens Unlimited and Studio Bedrooms, David and Wendy Dukes from Shaw, are this month celebrating the first anniversary of the opening of their new showroom in Gorse Hill, Swindon. Despite the recent economic climate, David and Wendy have enjoyed great success this year and the reason is plain to see. As a small family business, they work together as a team to provide excellent service to their customers. "We have the personal touch" explains Wendy. "Our customers are able to deal with one person from start to finish, and we can advise them from the initial planning stage through to the final finishing touches, which is often reassuring." Kitchens Unlimited and Studio Bedrooms are now planning for the future and have recently introduced new product ranges for both the kitchen and bedroom which can be viewed at their showroom. Why not call in today as David and Wendy are only too pleased to give you free professional advice, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that you can afford that new kitchen or bedroom you have been dreaming of.

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SHAW

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Fun day brings people together Shaw's first community fete on 7 September was a great success with hundreds of people attracted to the village centre which was taken over by stalls, an inflatable, morris dancers and a car boot sale. Bob Bauld, chairman of Shaw Residents' Association, was delighted with how the day turned out. "The weather was great, the centre was packed and everybody had a good time. The fete brought the community together which was the important thing. It will be the first of many." The next Shaw Residents' Association event is a Cheese and Wine

Party on 7 October in Shaw Community Centre,Ramlea7eDrive. All residents are invited to attend. Right: Bob Bauld, centre, and members of the residents' association committee

Table Top Sale Saturday 26 October 2pm-4pm Shaw Church £5 per table. Advanced bookings only to Mrs Parker, tel. 881343, 1Oam-6pm, weekdays only In aid of Lollipops Parent & Toddler Group

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Anincidentbetweenpensioners and teenagers in September resulted in an apology from young people. Youngsters hangingaround Shaw Village Centre were reported to have ridden their bikes around the private car park at George Tweed Gardens elderly persons dwelling causing anxiety amongst the residents. Men living in the buildings were asked to show themselves in the car park by warden Joan Bauld, but she said the 'battling pensioner' publicity given to the incident was over the top. "Too much was made of it, but I was surprised and pleased when a group of 12 to 16 year olds

knocked on my door to apologise for causing an inconvenience. "I was very impressed by their gesture and we had a good longchat. They wanted to put their side of the story and they understood the worries elderly people have when they hear noise outside. We all agreed there is no animosity between the elderly and younger members of the community." Joan said the new play area which had been built close to her building and the village centre was a tempting place to hang out. She sympathised with the youngsters because there is so little to do in Shaw.

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REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

10

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Attention all Children An invitation from Librarian Phil Edwards to a free Magic Show

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Gift Vouchers ADVERTISING HAS MORE IMPACT IF PEOPLE SEE YOUR ADVERTISEMENT! THAT'S WHY SO MANY PEOPLE ADVERTISE IN THE LINK MAGAZINE BECAUSE PEOPLE READ IT. RING 871793 FOR DETAILS.

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Jack Stephens, a member of the famous 'Magic Circle' will be appearing at the Link Centre Library during the half-term holiday. Jack's show includes magic, puppets, balloon modelling, paper-tearing and lots of audience participation. During the summer holidaysJack produced his magician's show at several libraries around Swindon and drew large audiences. It all sounds like great fun. So, parents if you'd like a free treat for the kids, bring themalong to theLinkLibrazy on Thursday 31 October, 10.30 am. Also in the Library during October, we have an exhibition of art by the Swindon Leisure Painters' Group. The exhibition runs 7 - 25 October. I reported last month on the success of our summer children's activities. This month we can announce the winner of our 'ice pack' competition: Mark Allison, aged 8, of Edington Close, Toothill. Thanks to all those who participated. Now on to the new books at the Link Centre Library. Those of us new to parenthood are only too aware that there's plenty of advice around fromwell-meaning relations and friends, much of which can leave new and prospective parents thoroughly confused. At West Swindon Library wehavea range of books on pregnancy and childbirth which are aimed at answering parental worries. The following titles are new in this month. 'Your Premature Baby' by Frank Manguello and Theresa Di Geronimo describes itself as 'the definitive guide to caring for your premature infant ... from pregnancy and childbirth through the often lengthy hospital stay'. It certainly seems to cover many of the concerns such parents would face. A basic decision for all mothers is whether or not to breastfeed the baby, especially when the mother is planning to return to work 'The Working Woman's Guide to Breastfeeding' by Nancy Dana and Anne Price discusses the pros and cons. More and more mothers 'want the nutritional and emotional rewards of breastfeeding their babies and the personal and financial rewards of pursuing a part-time or full-time career', says the blurb. 'Getting Your Child to Sleep, a parent's guide' by Dr Danny Wolf, should also prove to be a popular title. Dr Wolf examines the sleep process and booksatits related problems which are so often 'demanding and emotionally draining'. I think all parents would bear witness to that statement. For mums, Gillian Fletcher and the National Childbirth Trust have

Jack Stephens

produced 'Get Into Shape After Childbirth: easy to follow routines to tone, trim and relax'. In addition to simple exercises, the book looks at sensible eating and weight control and stress relief. These four titles are only the latest additions to our stock of books on pregnancy and childbirth. Please feel free to browse through the books on the shelves and, if you are unable to find what you want, ask at the enquiry desk. The relevant book may beon loan or, fora smallcharge, we may be able to obtain it from another library. Finally, has anyone lost a cassette of 'Evita'. We have a two-cassette box of Frederick Forsyth's 'The Negotiator', in which one of the cassettes is of 'Evita', the musical. It may be that someone has a box for 'Evita' which contains our missing Frederick Forsyth cassette. If so, could we swap it back, please?

NCT Sale of Baby Equipment & Toys The NationalChildbirthTrust(NCf) is holding a sale of baby equipment and toys at the Link Centre on Saturday260ctober, I lam-12 noon. Goods are sold on a commission basis with 75% going to the seller and 25% toNCT. No sale, no charge. If you have items for sale ring Laura Gynee-Jones, 530688, or Sue Goddard, 641292.

45+ Club Visit to BBC Television Studios The Link 45+ Social Club is visiting the BBCTV Studios in London to see a recording of 'Are You Being Served? on Sunday 13 October.' There area few seats available on this trip departing from West Swindon Centre car park Bus Stop A at 4pm, returning from London at 10.15pm. The bus will drop you off at your doorstep. The cost is ÂŁ3. Anyone interested in joining the trip should contact Norman Bowles on 694425.

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STANDARD GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIP FOR JUST £18 A WEEK

The arrival of the Wootton Bassett Golf Club has been greeted with great enthusiasm. The limited membership is already over 50% taken up after only 8 weeks. A number of full 7 day memberships are still available which, with a specially arranged financial package, enables you to enjoy full membership privileges at a maximum cost of only £18.29 a week. The beautiful Par 73 parkland course, designed to championship standards by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark will be ready for play as planned, next summer, providing members with wonderful golf in uncrowded conditions. To find out about the remaining memberships, whilst they are still available, please phone (0793) 849999 or write to the Membership Secretary.

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RECREATION

12

Capturing World Cup enthusiasm

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Tuesdays 7.30pm - 8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm Up Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool Down. Suitable for Beginners/ Intermediates. £2.50 The Gym, Greendown School Bodies By Design Ltd. is sponsored by

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The World Cup Rugby tournament in October is sure to stimulate a lot of interest amongst young people who want to have a go. A local club which is keen to give youngsters the chance to try the game is Wootton Bassett RFC. It has a complete youth development programme in place and runs mini-rugby training sessions for under 8s, under lOs and under 12s. And the game is not restricted to boys. Girls up to the age of 12 are welcome to join in. The club is also particularly interested in finding under 14s boys to build up their team Club mini-rugby coordinator Winston Huth-Wallis said that there was less interest in rugby at schools nowadays which meant that clubs had to provide children with a route into the game. "The game has been adapted for youngsters so that basic skills like passing, catching, tackling properly and group activities are emphasised. "We also put over the ethos of rugby, the love of sport and the discipline of teamwork in away that is fun and encouraging." All the mini-rugby teams have coaches trained to work with children and the structured training sessions are carefully monitored to ensure the safety in what can be a rough game at adult level. Training takes place on Sunday mornings at the club ground at Stoneover Lane, Wootton Bassett. The different age groups have a programme of mini-rugby games against other clubs. As Winston said, "Children love to participate if given a chance and rugby is an ideal way of developing sporting skills and good social attitudes." Parents who have children who want to try rugby are invited to turn up at the club any Sunday at Warn and introduce themselves. Youngsters should wear sports shorts/ shirts/ trainers and be ready to pitch in and have fun.

Gym for girls Girls aged 5 to 12 who want to pursue gymnastics to a high level have the chance through the Concorde Gymnastic Club which meets at Greendown School. Although based in West Swindon, many parents and girls are not aware of the Concorde Club. To find out more about how to join, telephone Sally Martin on 852490.

Ice time at a premium Ice skating at the Link Centre is proving to be not only a very popular activity, it is bringing forth possible future champions. So far this year, the ice skating club has had fourteen skaters achieving qualifying standards for different championships around the country and who have been placed in the top three slots on seven occasions. According to skating development officer Alan Seabrook, no other club has such an impressive record. Most recently on 16 September, at the first ever British novice championships, held at the Link Centre, home skaters picked up many of the top honours. In the Girls Figure Skating, Zoe-Ann Jones from Freshbrook took first and Jenna Arrowsmith was second. In the Ice Dance competition Sharon Hill and James Lewis took second place, as did Andrew Seabrook and Hannah Osgood in the Pairs competition. Andrew Seabrook was fifth in the Solo Boys and Jodie Moore was twenty first in the Figure Skating. Success could create major problems said Alan. "Allocating ice time is becoming increasingly difficult because so many skaters are reaching a good standard and want training facilities, and their success will generating more interest. If you add in the successes of the hockey teams, you see we have a problem."

RECREATION

13

Express team looks for opposition

• CURTAIN CALL TRAVEL London Theatre Excursions, Bristol Hippodrome & Savvas Cabaret Club London Theatre Excursions

A new under tens football team is looking for other teams to play against. Greendown AFC, recently sponsored by Pizza Express, and coached by Gary Williams of Shaw would like to setup fixtures for the season. They've already won two games and want to improve their performance. The youngsters are pictured above after being presented with a smart green and black strip by James Malcolm of Pizza Express with Swindon Town captain Colin Caldeiwood. Managers of teams can contact Gary Williams, rear right above, on 873664.

12th October, Sat. mat. Cats Starlight Express 12th October, Sat. mat. 23rd November, Sat. mat. Aspects of Love 30th November, Sat. mat. Cats 14th December, Sat. mat. Miss Saigon Les Miserables 25th January, Sat. mat Miss Saigon 1St February, Sat. eve. Joseph (Stalls) 15th April, Wed. eve.

£34.00 £34.50 £34.00 £34.00 £35.00 £39.75 £35.00 £38.00

Bristol Hippodrome

Community Mini-Soccer Challenge Sunday 20 October, from 9am An under 8sand under us soccer tournament for boys and girls is being organised by Greendown School and The Link magazine. The tournament is for 5 a-side teams organised by parents rather than clubs. The aim is to bring together groups of friends who play together in the street or in the local park to form teams for the morning. The tournament will take place on the Greendown all-weather surface and there will be trophies and medals for the finalists

presented by Swindon Town F.C. captain Cohn Calderwood. Games will be played in two seperate age groups - under 8s and under us, as at 1 September 1991. Each squad (boys and girls can enter) should have seven players and should provide its own colours. There's an entry charge of 50p per player. Send in the entry form below, or a seperate letter, with the entry fee. Closing date: Saturday 12 October.

The Greendown Community School/ Link Magazine Under us Five a side Community Mini Soccer Tournament Age Group being entered: Under8s_

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(All seven players in the squad should be under the age on 1 September 1991) Team Organiser: Address:

Tel: Return this form, with the 50p per player entry fee, to Steve O'Sullivan, Greendown Community School, Grange Park Way, Grange Park, Swindon by Saturday 12 October.

Barnum, with Paul Nicholas £24.50 14th December, Sat eve. Some Like It Hot, with Tommy Steele £24.50 Buddy £26.00 21St March, Sat. eve 19th October, Sat. eve.

Savvas Cabaret Club, Usk (Voted Night Club of Usk 1987/89) 9th November Jethro (Cornish comedian) £28.00 16th November Jimmy Tathuck & Kenny Lynch £28.00 30th November Tremeloes & The Ivy League £28.00 6/7th December Bob Monkhouse £28.00 10th December For the ladies, Top Gun & Friends £24.00 13th December Stan Boardman & The Searchers £33.00 19th December Stan Boardman & The Rocking Berries £33.00 Hale & Pace £32.00 1st February 6 nights - For the ladies, Book early 3rd February The Chippendales £34.50 6 nights - For the ladies, Book early 10th February The Chippendales £34.50 22nd February Bobby Davro £33.00 Bobby Pearce £31.00 29th February

Savvàs excursions include return coach travel, admission, three course dinner with choice of menu and full cabaret. £10 deposit at time of booking.

For reservations call Curtain Call, on 740817 Theatre excursions include return coach travel, theatre tickets, booking fee & VAT paid.

14

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Sj. St. George

Discover West Swindon's footways and cycle routes an Saturday Ii and Sunday 13 October. The Link magazine invites its readers to get out and use the map printed in the centre pages of this edition. Find out how many others are doing the same thing!

MA (Oxon), FCA

Greeness to be tested in the West

Chartered Accountant Specialist in financial services for small business lilA High Street Wootton Bassett, Swindon, Wilts

Telephone (0793) 848030

Two experiments to test out the willingness of people to recycle waste are to be tried out in West Swindon. They will involve diverting organic kitchenand garden waste from the normal rubbish collection system. According to a report put to Thamesdown Council's Environmental Working Party, over 25% by weight of the household dustbin is madeupof'putrescibles,' i.e. cooked food waste, vegetable and fruit waste, teabags, etc. An average

household in Thamesdown creates 167.5 kilos a year of this kind of waste whichexcludes garden waste. The Council is looking for ways to reuse organic waste and also reduce the amount of materials it has to dispose of in land fill sites.

The simple answer to hairless, smooth skin

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Bob Pixton and green cone

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up the experiments will be made by in November, but Freshbmok and Grange Park councillor Bob Pixton, memberof Thamesdown's Environmental Working Party, said he was eager for them to take place in his area. "1 think people in Freshbrook and Grange Park will be eager to take part in these trials. Nationally we have got to reduce the amount of material going into landfill sites, we're just running out of space. 'People are buying more 'green' goods, but we have to find out how keen they are on recycling their waste. With support from The Link magazine, we will be able to publicise the project and keep people in touch with its progress." He added that a lot would hinge on the results of the recycling project as they would provide the basis for further 'separation at source' schemes which could result in changes to the way all household refuse is collected.

The two experiments are: Digestion at source

100 volunteer households will be asked to installa plastic Green Cone in their garden. All food waste can be put in including vegetable scraps, raw and cooked meat, fish, garden waste, teabags, bread, etc. Ind ividualtests show that organic material generated by a household breaks down quickly in the Green Cone, an airtight seal ensures no unpleasant odour and it rarely has to be emptied. The volunteers will be asked to fill in a survey of how they use the Cone and if they think it is effective.

Bank for textiles

Collecting organic waste from the household

The second project involves providing 850 households in one area with a special plastic bin into which they will be asked to deposit food waste, vegetable and some garden waste. The bins will be emptied weekly on a different day to the normal refuse collection and taken to a municipal compost tip to be set up. The waste material will be weighed to establish the qua lity and quantity of organic material generated by the scheme as a way of finding out how willing people are to recycle organic waste. Another element within this project will be to expand opportunities to recycle dry waste atone of the villagecentres. The already existing bottle bank will be joined by containers for used paper, cans and perhaps plastic to give everybody the chance to get in on recycling. The final decision on the setting

Thamesdown Council's Recycling Officer Ann Billingham and West Swindon Manager Lionel Dix invite you to use a new bank

A fourth recycling container has arrived at the West Swindon Centre. The textile bank, operated by Devizes Textiles, is a convenient way of recycling clothing and shoes to poor countries. The company sorts and grades clothing and sells it on to business people in Third World countries where it is resold. Clothing is now also being sold to the Eastern bloc, Textiles unsuitable for wearing is broken down for uses like fire retardent seat filling, carpets, blankets and much more. Textile deposits must be clean and dry and buttons should be left on. Please don't use the bank as a dump.

The Link 1 1'cgc,,zz*ne's Green Map of' est Swindon A guide to open spaces, pedestrian routes and recycling opportunities in West Swindon, brought to you with the assistance of SAl NSBURV'S WEST S â&#x20AC;¢1ND0N CENTRE Tewkesbury Vay, Swindon

DEVIZES TEXTI LES Operators of the Textile Bank at the West Swindon Centre

SEVERNSIDE Waste Paper Ltd. Operators of the paper bank at the West Swindon Centre

HOLLAND HANDLING RECYCLING (Swindon & Minty) Operators of the Barnfield Road Recycling Centre and local can banks

Felt Swift Publishers of West Swindon's Magazine - The Link

HOLLAND HANDLING

The West Swindon Green

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undreds of tonnes of rubbish are thrown away and dumped into landfill every week in Thamesdown. But not all of it need be thrown away. Recycling saves raw materials. It also reduces the amount of fossil fuels burnt during production processes. Making a can out of recycled aluminium uses 95% less energy than making one from scratch. As well as saving energy and raw materials recycling reduces the need for landfill sites.

owever, even recycled goods cannot be manufactured without energy and they still have to be distributed to the shops. So although recycling is very valuable there are other things to consider as well: • Buying long-life articles rather than disposable ones • Buying things made or grown locally where possible • mending things rather than throwin them away and • Rejecting unnecessary packaging and not buying overpackaged goods.

Aluminium is, in energy terms, the most expensive form of packaging to produce. It is derived from bauxite which is surface-mined in rainforest areas. Where you cannot avoid using aluminium, always recycle it. All of the Can Banks accept both aluminium and steel drink cans.

3

he most effective way to collect waste for recycling in the future may be to collect separated waste from the household, door to door. In the meantime, the Council is introducing public facilities conveniently located so that selected materials can be brought for recyling when visiting the local shopping centre.

BOTTLE BANKS at

4 BANKS IN ONE West Swindon Centre car park b PAPER BANK AN BANK BOTTLE BANK TEXTILE BANK

-

The textile banks are not intended to just for 'rags'. All clothing that can be re-used is sorted and sent to countries where it is needed. Textiles which are unsuitable for re-use is turned into furniture filling, industrial wipes, carpets etc.

Toothill Village Centre, Freshbrook VillageCentre Sainsbury's, Bridgemead

Barnfield Road Waste Disposal & Recycling Site. Open 9.30am - 8pm (summer), 6pm (winter). Tel: (0666) 860229 For PLATE GLASS, BATTERIES, SUMP OIL, SCRAP METAL, CARDBOARD & PAPER, FRIDGE CFCs, GLASS, LARGE ITEMS OF FURNITURE, GARDEN REFUSE, ETC.

BUY RECYCLED

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uying recycled products whenever possible helps build up and sustain the markets for waste. Recycled stationery is widely available and most supermarkets stock unbleached lavatory paper made from newsprint and other low grade waste. Buying this helps create a market for the newsprint collected in the paper banks. Junk Mail-Mailing Preference Service, Freepost 22, London Wi E 7EZ to remove your name from mailing lists and save paper. October 1991

REUSE! PLASTIC BAGS - Sainsbury's will take 1 p off your bill for each plastic bag you bring in and refill with items purchased. UNWANTED FURNITURE in good repair may be collected by the Swindon Furniture Project. Tel: 644774 UNWANTED HAND TOOLS can be cleaned, sharpened and sent to projects in developing countries by Tools for Self-Reliance. Tel: 692016 RECYCLING CANS AT SCHOOL. Several local schools are taking part in this project. To find out more, tel: 493517 PAPER, CARD, ALUMINIUM etc. Swindon Scrapstore collects good quality office and factory waste if it can be used by community groups like playgroups and after school clubs. Tel: 723584

FRIDGES AND FREEZERS should be taken to Bamfield Road or collected by Thamesdown Council so that ozone harmful CFC's present in their coolants can be removed for recycling. BULKY HOUSEHOLD ITEMS for disposal. Thamesdown Council Refuse Department will remove them. Tel: 526161 ext 3522. COMPOSTING: Advice and demonstrations at the Moredon Community Garden Centre. Tel: 523294. PLASTICS RECYCLING: Contact the Recycling Officer, tel. 49351 7.

19

ARTS SCENE

What's On at Link Arts Clarry Bean asks, 'Have you visited your local Arts Centre lately?' You'll find a range of performances and activities with the emphasis on enjoyment and entertainment! Take a look at what's happening this month...

Saturday 51h - Craft Fair Another opportunity to purchase originallocally produced crafts from jewellery to clothes. Admission free. 10.00am - 400pm. Thursday lath - Film Postcards From the Edge. Sharp, savagely funny comedy starring Shirley Maclaine and Meryl Streep. 7.45pm. Friday 11th - Jazz Spirit Level. Original, exciting, dynamic jazz from this excellent London based quartet. Doors open 8.00pm. Saturday 12th - Folk Musical A Tolpuddle Man. The story of the Tolpuddle Martys told through music, song and drama performed by a company of ten talented performers. 8.00pm. Tuesday 15th - New Comedy Our monthly comedy specials re-

turn hosted as ever by the unique and irrepressible talent of Paul Ramone and a superb line-up of stand-up comics including Bob Boyton. Doors open 8.00pm. Saturday 19th - Antarctica A new play about the attempt by Greenpeace to prevent an airstrip being built on the nesting site of 10,000 penguins in Antarctica. 8.00pm. Phone (0249) 654970 to book Thursday 24th - Film TheseFoolish Things. Dirk Bogarde gives a superb performance in this tender melancholy movie. 7.45pm. Friday 25th - World Music Boubacar Traore. One of Mali's greatest guitarist - singers on his first ever solo tour of England. Doors open 800pm. Saturday 26th - The Flying Chestycoffs Madcap clowning, hoop diving, acrobatics and more from this crazy

duo. A show for all the family. 2.3Opm. Saturday 26th- Rock with Bardiche Swindon's favourite rockband raise the roof! Doors open 8.00pm. Remember we also have a range of dance classes on offer, and the Link Writers Circle meets twice a month to share ideas. . and if you were inspired by THAT scene in the movie 'Ghost', you too can learn the craft of pottery at our weekly Wednesday night classes. Phone 871212 formore details and prices of our activities...

NATIONAL VACUUM

PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar. Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24hrs)

CLEANER SERVICES

YOUR LOCAL, FRIENDLY SPECIALIST for service repair to most makes of VACUUM CLEANERS AND POLISHERS Sales of machines, dustbags, belts, etc. Direct Phone to Workshop 9am - 5pm 0285 - 712991

The Power of Dance Swindon's own Thamesdown Dance Studio, based in the former Town Hall in Regents Circus, recently celebrated its appointment as the only National Dance Agency for the Southern Region with a premier performance of Arctic Heart by the Siobhan Davies Dance Company. As a National Dance Agency, Thamesdown Dance Studio will increase the number of commissions, performances and residencies in the area - as well as offering advice on the programming and marketing of dance. The current evening community classes boast new Reggae and Alexander Technique (for relaxation) classes, in addition to the existing programrneofBallet,Tap,Jazz,children'sclassesandMid-EasternDancu. A foundation course (in conjunction with Swindon College) exists for over 16 year olds to learn the many facets of dance - 100% of the students were successfully placed at top dance schools this year, at the end of the two year course. West Swindon residents can also take part in the classes held by the Dance Studio at the Link Arts Studios in the Link Centre. Adult Jazz Exercise, parents and toddlers, Ballet and Tap are among the courses held - just phone 871212 ext 227 for the latest brochure. Regular Dance performances are held in the 100 seat theatre in the Town Hall Studios this season including the Claire Russ Ensemble on2 November, Dundee Rep. Coon 8/9 November and The Taming Of The Shrew at the Wyvern Theatre on 11 November.

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ERMIN WINDOWS Dundee Rep Company at Swindon's Town Hall on 8/9 November

For those interested in learning to teach dance, a special Dancemakers series of workshops runs from October 1991 until March 1992 and an outreach programme exists taking dance into community centres and schools. Fordetails of all the activities held by Thamesdown Dance Studio please phone 610378 or pop into the Town Hall 900am - 8.00pm weekdays, 900am - 2.00pm Saturday. Leaflets on the activities and events are available from all Swindon leisure centres and libraries.

Craft Fair Saturday 5 October. lOam - 4.30pm The Mall, Link Centre Next: Saturday 23 November Organised by Thamesdown Community Arts

For conservatories and windows in uPVC or aluminium with hardwood surround

Call Brian Smith

SWINDON 824419 87a Ermin Street, Stratton St. Margaret Swindon.

LOCAL LIVES

20

Back to school

But for Steve Menham from Grange Park, and 150 staff and children, September was a unique experience because they were all starling at the brand new Tregoze School in Grange Park.

Almost exactly a year ago, along my application for the post of headwith many other hopefuls,I popped teacher of the new Grange Park prithe brown envelope that contained mary school into the local postbox. 'An enthusiastic, experienced person required', stated the advertisement. Seeing the new school building rising from the green fields of Rectory Meadows certainly filled me with enthusiasm for the possibility of taking on the challenge of a new headship, and my eight years as headteacher of another Swindon school surely gave me the experience that was required. However as Christmas came and went, with the hectic round of concerts, plays and parties so enjoyed by everyone in school, my hopes Home Estimates faded. Then, after several months of Repairs by hearing nothing, a letterarrived that set off a whirlwind of visits to the Qualified new school and a long exhausting Engineers. day of interviews held at Brook Field Sales & Rentals School on the last day of January. All Work One of the most stressful parts of any job must be the infinity Guaranteed of time that is spent awaiting the result of an interview. But Tel: Swindon then the stomach churning was over for the candidates as the Education Officer stepped into the charged atmosphere and announced, "Mr Menham, the Governors would like to see you again". At that moment I knew I was to become the head-teacher of West Swindon's newest school. To enable the school to be set in motion, a temporary governing body had been formed from eleven willing individuals representing the

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Grange Park area. It was this group of people, who appointed me, that I was to work with over the next eight months before the school opened its doors to the first pupils. Regular governors' meetings were held and decisions taken on the name of the school, school colours, staffing issues and appointments. It was most encouraging to share the governor's enthusiasm for what they feel is their school. My appointment commenced after Easter, giving me several valuable months to prepare for the school's opening. A lot of time was spent on the school site, though for insurance and safety reasons I was unable to take up residence in the building until the school was officially handed over on 16 May. One of the most pleasant parts of starting up a new school is havingeveiythinghew. Nochipped furniture or dog-eared books for Tregoze School. However it is quite daunting to order every single piece of equipment fora new school, down to the last pencil sharpener. One of our biggest worries was that we would forget to order something vital In fact the biggest sigh of relief came when the boxes of toilet rolls arrived two days before we were due to open! The taskof ordering equipment was made a great deal easier by drawing upon the experience of other local primary head teachers who had opened new schools in the last fewyears. Schools gain a great dealof strengthbywork-

ing together, and it has been very heartening to meet up with so many local headteachers who are committed to helping and supporting each other. Their help was invaluable. As the early summer slipped by major furniture and equipment ordering was completed and the team of teaching and non-teaching staff appointed. At the end of May we held an open evening when the local community, many of them prospective pupils and parents, could look around the school and meet some of the teachers and governors. Early enquiries suggested that the school would open with around eighty children, and we were all rather surprised to find 130 on our books by the time classes were being organised in July. The summer holiday proved to be a very busy period with teachers preparing classes and taking delivery of the thousands of items that are needed to help a school operate effectively. The building contractors completed the few outstanding jobs and the classrooms and kitchen were given their final clean before opening. Books appeared all around the school to give the building a 'lived-in' feel at last. With a final flourish of tidying the teachers and secretary left the building at 800pm the evening before the first day. At 8.50am the next morning the first children arrived and Tregoze School was open. There was a great sense of relief, but obviously this was only the beginning.

Steve Menham, rear left, and a first day line-up of children and staff at Tregoze School

NEWS & VIEWS

TV reception problems Some suggestions for action

21

Fighting fit The Greendown Taekwando martial art club meets on Tuesday and Thursday from 6.30pm to 8pm at the school. Juniors and seniors are welcome. The first lesson is free. Also free for under 16s is a proper Taekwando fighting suit.

From a number of letters received by The Link magazine since publishing articles in the last two editions, we have found that poor television reception is being experienced by people from all over West Swindon. Unfortunately, the cause of the 6. What about the cable you're usproblem in one part of the area is ing? Builders put cable into most usually different in another which new houses, but you can be sure it's Below: Instructor Tim Neave in action means a whole variety of explana- the cheapest available. Itrnay have tions can be produced. However got damp, or deteriorated over the two experts, who live in Shaw have years, reducing the signal strength contacted The Link to offer some help received by the aerial by the time it to readers. gets to the TV. Simon Chandler, apart from try- 7. If you have an amplifier, is it a ing to start a new radio station in low noise, high gain type? Locating Swindon called Dance FM, is a re- it by the aerial is better than by the ception perfectionist and has rigged TV. But make sure they are compatContact upailmannerof aerials on his house ible in the first place. Phil Rashid Fasson in Angler Close to ensure good reEMEPAW5 Both our experts say that 90% of Sales Executive MNNEFS 1989 ception. Vince Lake until recently households in the area with reasonran Westlake Aerials and has putup Shades Design and Print for a large amount of receiving equip- able reception can improve it with a advertising, lithographic ment in the area. The points they few changes at a modest cost. Most of the other 10% should be able to and screen process printers make are improve reception, though they 1. The hilly terrain disrupts the sig- might have to spend more. Regret9 Westcott Place, Swindon nal The Old Town hill upsets Cen- tably there will be a few who will Tel: 539303 Fax 512116 tralTV signals fromthe Oxford trans- have great difficulty in solving their mitter, whilst Toot Hill and Shaw problems. Ridge make HTV signals difficult to the complete carpet service Vince and Simonare offering pracreceive. tical help to people who want to • FREE Estimating 2. Large buildings, including the improve TV reception. • FREE Fitting Galileo computer centre at WindVince has spent 15 years in coma Home Selection Service mill Hill and the DeVere Hotel at munications and although no longer • Expert Advice Shaw Ridge, definitely have an ef- an aerial rigger, he has the necessary BEST CHOICE - BEST PRICE CARPETS fed on reception. For some a picture equipment to test reception,but does 23 Milton Road, Swindon Tel: 528903 is completely messed up, others ex- not have to rely on putting up aeriperience moderate distortion and als for a living. Therefore he is in a ghosting. A large building closeby position to take an objective view of can also benefit some people. For reception problems. example, the Link Centre blocks out For a £10 consultation fee Vince HTV which means Central recep- will make a visit to the home, anation is not overpowered. lyse the problem and outline the 3. HTV reception has been very options for action. He can be conpatchy for the last two years be- tacted on 872412. Simon Chandler is happy to meet cause the Mendip transmitter has been on low power on and off whilst people who want to compare their new equipment is installed. For reception with his which has been those with teletext, the status of the improved by the addition of several transmitters is given under the En- extra pieces of equipment. He can be contacted on 876636. gineering information. As far as improving reception 4. Simon and Vince are critical of across the the whole community, a some aerial riggers who don't anagroup has to organise a survey and lyse reception problems properly. organise a public meeting where Poor reception is not always impeople can express their views. proved byinstallinga big amplifier. Around 300 people have to be inThings can get worse as noise from volved before theTV companies will Good question. traffic is picked up and amplified take notice. Volunteers who want to into the TV, and amplifiers themIs it being properly managed organise something can contact us selves can give off a lot of noise at The Link for free publicity. Telto become really substantial? interference. ephone 872282. Is it keeping pace with inflation 5. Is the equipment you have as and what's it actually worth right now? good as it could be? Old TVs deteriorate but even brand new ones To find out more, talk to us. Today. CAR BOOT SALE costing a small fortune sometimes Our advice is free, strictly confidential Saturday 19 October, 9am don't give a good picture because and totally without obligation. little attention has been paid to the Link Centre Coach Park aerial. There are a range of aerials Boots £4ft5 available, obviously with a range of Tel: 617620 or prices. But don't expect a cheap Abbey Life, Ground Floor, Terminal I West, Stone Hill Green, Westlea, Swindon aerial to produce good pictures for 538823 to book your expensive TV in a difficult reProceeds to ception area. 1st Westlea Guides /

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22

GCSE Results 1991 The Link Magazine invited the three designated Local Authority secondary schools to comment on which are displayed below in the format required by the Department of Education & Science (as a percentage of the

Greendown School, Grange Park Headteacher: Mr Ian Matthews

Bradon Forest School, Purton Headteacher: Mr Ian Perkins The School has continued to adopt a successful early entrypolicyfor a relatively small group of students. This year a Y8 and a 110 student both gained grade A's in French. Additionally there were 19 candidates in Mathematics with 5 A's, 6 B's and 8 C's achieved. The Upper School candidates will now embark upon alternative courses for theirfinal year. Last year's Yl 1 provided a set of results that are the best in the School's history. I know that the public has an understandable cynicism about the way statistics can be used to prove anything. I therefore provide those details which show a genuine indication of levels of success. Just over 46% of students most impressively gained 5 or more grade Ato C, compared with 37% in 1990, 34% in 1989 and 35% in 1988. That provides a total of 746 GCSE grades Ato Candanaveragenumberof4.47 grades A to C per student in the year group. In 1988 this average was 3.16, in 1989 3.23 and 1990 3.43. In fact 54% of all entries realised grades Ato C. Conversely I was equally delighted at the substantial reduction in the number of entries resulting in grades F, G and U, from approximately 20% to 10%. Bradon Forest equally values and celebrates the achievements and progress ofless academic pupils,whose enthusiasm, commitment and hard work have brought deserved dividends.

In that context it is worth noting that 85% of boys gained at least one grade A to C, with 97.5% gaining at leastone grade at G or above. For the girls the comparable figures are 80% and 98.8%. Overall the combined figures are 82.5% and 98.2%. Nearly 90% of all pupils gained 5 or more grades Ato G. It is well worth noting too that in the combined total of 46.1% who gained 5 or more grades A to C, 45% of boys and 47.1% of girls provide a healthy indication of the School's progress to meaningful equal opportunities. Where individuals were concerned, at grades A to C, 4 students gained 11 passes, 17 gained 10,12 gained 9,13 gained 8, 11 gained 7, 11 gained 6 and 8 gained 5. One student achieved 10 A's from 10 entries, while many others achieved a high number of grade A's. A very significantly high number of pupils achieved substantially more than their standardised scores at age 11 would have indicated. For example one of the students with 11 grades A to C was assessed as below average! I would finally like to pay tribute to all our students, to their parents and Bradon Forest staff. Without their co-operative effort and support and without a great deal ofhard work and mutual respect, the students would not have met with such deserved success.

Year 11 pupils on roll • 165 (80 boys, 85 girls) Entered Awarded Awarded Entered 5+ 5+ A-C 5+ A-G 1+ Boys 77 36 73 78 Girls 84 40 75 85 Total 161 76 148 163 Boys 96.3% 45.0% 91.3% 97.5% Girls 98.8% 47.1% 88.2% 100% Total 97.6% 46.1% 89.7% 98.8%

'A

Awarded 1+ A-C 68 68 136 85% 80.0% 82.4%

Awarded 1 +A-G 78 84 162 97.5% 98.8% 98.2%

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When Greendown opened in September 1986, we emphasised that we wished to be seen as a caring establishment concerned for the welfare and development of each individual student. We also established a number ofquite new approaches to the process of education. It is inevitable that the results will be seen as providing some form of judgment on the school and its teaching methods. To be fair, the results must be seen in context and there is little doubt that the first year group can not be described as 'typical'. That said, there are a range ofareas where we can be justifiably proud of the achievements of the staff and students, and other areas where we clearly need to make improvements. What follows is blunt assessment of our performance and our intentions for the future. Encouraging aspects ofthe results: • 17 students obtained 8 or more GCSE's at grade C or above. • One student obtained 9 grade A's and 1 grade B. • Over 41% of girls obtained 5 or more GCSE's at grade C or above. • 40% of girls obtained a 'double science award' at grade C or above, with 36% obtaining a C or above in Maths. • 29% of all students obtained the 'double science' award.

GREENDOWN

• 87% ofall students obtained a grade G or above in French • 67% of the girls obtained at least one subject at grade C or above. • 37% ofall students obtained a grade C or above in Humanities. Disappointing aspects: • The overall results were depressed by the performance of the boys. • Results in Maths, English and Design Technology were less than satisfactory - particularlyfor the boys. • Just 10% of the boys obtained 5 or more A to C grades. Some contributory factors: • 141 students sat examinations just 107 of these have been with the school since it opened. • During the first four years of the school the staffing increased from 11 to over 55. • The curriculum at Greendown had to reflect the much narrower National Curriculum which all schools will soon be required tofollow. Our first students did not have the same range of subject options as at other schools. We clearly need to look particularly at the performance of the boys and have already taken steps to raise their attainment. Greendown has already responded to the weaker aspects of these results but we clearly must maintain and extend the many aspects which are positive and encouraging.

Year 11 pupils on roll - 146 (73 boys and 73 girls) Entered Awarded Awarded Entered 1+ 5+ 5+ A-C 5+ A-G 61 7 61 70 Boys 66 30 65 71 Girls 141 Total 127 37 126 83.6% 95.9% Boys 83.6% 9.6% 97.3% 90.4% 41.1% 89% Girls 96.6% Total 86.9% 25.3% 86.3%

Awarded 1+ A-C 23 49 72 31.5% 67.1% 49.3%

Awarded 1+A-G 70 71 141 95.9% 97.3% 96.6%

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23 their 1991 GCSE results number of students on roll in January).

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The Ridgeway School, Wroughton Headteacher: Mr Tom Axon The Ridgeway School aims at the highest possible standards in all aspects of education: academic, personal and social. We recognises that one measure of such standards is examination results. For that reason it seeks to produce the best possible examination results for its students and is proud of its record over the years. This year we celebrate the success of three of our sixth form students who have won entry to Oxford and Cambridge. Kristina Poole will be reading Psychology at Oxford. Drosten Fisher will be reading English at Oxford, and James Lowe will be going up to Cambridge to read engineering. Furthermore,when one examines the list of destinations of last year's leaversfrom the upper sixth, one finds that 67% are going straight on to universities, polytechnics and colleges of higher education, while a further 10% have deferred entry for a year to, for instance to work, for instance, on a kibbutz in Israel and work in France for a time. Thirty-nine pupils (21% of year 11) achieved 8 or more GCSE results at grades A - C. Of course we are very proud of those students, most of whom achieved 9 or 10 such results. Special congratulation go to Fiona Thompson who achieved the distinction ofi 0 GCSE successes all at grade A. She was presented with this year's Annual Academic Award.

High grades are important but we also regard as important the achievements of all our students, who, in achieving their GCSE grades reach beyond initial expectations. There is a significant number ofsuch students with whom we are delighted and we congratulate them for the enormous efforts they have made to achieve grades, of which they arc and we can be proud. After all, we are a comprehensive school and that is what comprehensive education is all about.

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Entered Awarded Awarded 5+ 5+ A-C 5+ A-G 84 31 83 81 43 81 165 74 164 32% 85% 86% 95% 51% 95% 90% 41% 90%

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Entered Awarded Awarded 1+ 1+ A-C 1+A-G 94 57 91 85 68 85 179 125 176 96% 58% 93% 100% 80% 100% 98% 68% 97%

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Cinderella, this year's pantomime at the Wyvern Theatre is sure to be another glittering, spectacular showfor the whole family. Startingon 18 Decemberand running until 18 January, the magical rags to riches tale stars Matthew 'You Bet' Kelly, local actress Emma Collier, Daphne Neville and of course girls from Swindon's Molly Tanner School of Dance. There are competitions running throughout the production, including the chance to win a trip to Los Angeles, half price ice cream at some shows and free french fries at McDonalds for everybody. Cinderella is booking now at the Wyvem, telephone 524481; credit card bookings on 694055. There are concessionary prices for some groups and discount rates for party bookings.

Youngsters from West Swindon now rehearsing for Cinderella, from left Hannah John, from Grange Park, Georgina Woodham and KellyRayinent, both from Sparcells

Dance in the west A dance teacher is planning a Christmas show which could lead onto setting up a youth dance group in West Swindon. Zoe Humphries, dance development worker and jazz dance teacher at Thamesdown Dance Studio, wants to bring together both youngsters and adults to work on a production involving dance, art and drama to be put on in December.

In the longer term, Zoe wants to develop a resident youth dance group at the Link Arts Studio which will work on productions. To find out more, telephone her on 493449. At present Zoo, teaches classes at Link Arts on: Monday 5pm-5.45pm 6-8 years 5.45pm-6.30pm 9-12 s Wednesday 7.30pm-8.30pm. Any age. No experience necessary.

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Free half term play The next free WASPS playscheme takes place at half term, from Monday 28 to Thursday 31 October, between 11 am and 3pm each day at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive. Painting, making and pasting, plus a few surprises with a Halloween theme are planned. Bring lunch. For more information, call Cherry Hobbs on 872380.

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Swindon's play bus project holds its annualmeeting in Octoberand readers are being asked to take part. The Octobus is often seen around West Swindon carrying its load of fun, games and play activities to youngsters here and to other parts of Thamesdown. On board the colourfully painted Tackling obstacles: From left, Chris McStravick, Marc Stowe, Faye double decker bus is equipment for screen printing, photography, video Davidson and Jeremy Danials animation, kite making, fabric painting, candle making, puppets and mask making and lots more. The annual meeting is a chance for people to find out where the bus has been in the last year and what the two workers who lead play activities have done. As with most voluntary management committees, they also hope to meet people interested enough to take a more active role inkeepingthe show on the road. The Swindon Octobus Project holds its Annual General Meeting at Merton Fields School on Thursday 10 October, 7pm. For more information, call Margot or Tim on 728862.

Friday 13Septemberwasn'tunlucky for Oliver Tomldns Junior School. Over £1,000 was raised for school funds at theannual sponsored event. Children took part in a half an hour silence, tried an obstacle course and played ma football tournament Refreshment stalls alsocontributed cash.

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Courses for all attend ing enrolement sessions, allocating students to courses and taking hundreds of phone calls. "It seems people get into work, sort out initial problems in the office, then at coffee time they start to ring me. From lOam, the phone gets very hot. But as we say here, 'it's under control, don't panic.' Alex has worked in adult education forseveralyears and has moved to her present post froma similar job at Wootton Bassett. She hasn't been able to detect any trends in course interest as yet. Microwave cookery,

September has been all go for Alex Sandell, the new Adult Education Organiser for the area based at Greendown School. She returned from holiday at the end of August and pitched straight into the enrollment of students to dozens of adult education classes that had been set up by her predecessor Steve Williams. Just under 1,000 students had enrolled by midSeptember. However she says it has not been chaotic, just very busy sorting out the postal applications for courses,

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At West Swindon Family Centre a class meets each Tuesday morning. This isan informaland friendly class open to everyone. Students come both to learn to read and write, and improve their spellingand numeracy skills. Sometimes people need assistance with a specific problem such as filling in a form oransweringan important letter and we can help with this too. You can also work towards a Wordpower Certificate if you choose. We work both individually and as a group, stopping for a coffee break at 10.30. There is free creche available for under 5's during the class. Numberpower has just started at Greendown Community School on Tuesday evenings 7pm to 9pm. You are welcome to come along to improve your numeracy skills generally or learn how to deal with everyday adding up. You may gain the City and Guilds Numberpower Certificate. As group tutors, we provide guidance and support. Each student

decides whether to launch straight into Numberpower, refresh their existing skills or spend some time developing the basics such as addition, subtraction, percentages and so on. Most important of all, we work in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, which means we not only improve our skills - we enjoy numeracy too. N.B. Wordpower & Numberpower are 'City and Guilds' certificates. The courses in West Swindon are:

Wordpower - Tuesday 930am 1130am WestSwindonFamilyCentre, Gains borough Way, Freshb rook Numberpower - Tuesday 7pm 9pm Greendown Community School, Grange Park Wordpower - Wednesday 9.30am 1130am Toothill Church Wordpower- Wednesday 700pm900pm Greendown Community School, Grange Park If you feel you want to come or know someone who may need help, call in to a session or phone 616246 and ask for Jenny Brown or Debs Osario.

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the fashion a couple of years ago, is out and no longer takes place. Languages are still very popular with German overtaking French. For the first time, Dutch is being taught, an interesting idea given that the Dutch learn two or three other languages because so few foreigners speaktheirs. GCSE Law and Psychology are popular as well, and a new course 'Psychology for Fun' is being introduced. Coming up in the academic year are new courses in astrology, hypnosis for rulaxa tion, understanding your dreams, slimming with the hay system and jewelry making. However she is disappointed that the take-up for day time courses at Greendown is not greater. Most of them have a creche available to give parents the chance to try a course whilst their children are cared for. Alex is keen to develop new courses in response to community

Thamesdown Animal Sanctuary are in desperate need for both foster and permanent homes for the dogs they rescue. Foster carers are asked to takein a If you can help the Animal dog on a temporary basis, between Sanctury, telephone 871534,783857, forty eight hours and several weeks, 812773 or 485698. and then part with it. • Mathew Fiddes from Grindal The volunteers who run the or- Drive, Grange Park organised a ganisation would also like to meet sponsored dog walk for the Rescue people who can provide permanent Centre at Grittenham on Bank Holiday Monday in August. Unfortuhomes for dogs. The Sanctuary receives very few nately a family tragedy has precalls from West Swindon, but they vented him collecting the sponsors are sure there are good homes for money. He will be calling on spansors in October. dogs in the area.

NEWS & VIEWS

New head at infants school A teacher who used to work in the area has returned as head of Oliver Tomkins Infants School. Mrs Penny Summers taught at Toothill School until l987beforetaking up the headship of a village school in Gloucestershire with 50 children. Her new school has 172 children with prospects of rising to 250 by next summer term. "1 have good memories of working in West Swindon and was very pleased when I was appointed to Oliver Tomkins," said Mrs Summers. "1 see my role as building on the good work that has gone on before. I would like to develop closer home school links; it's important the partnership with parents is strengthened." She said that the changes in education had put huge demands on teachers, but she hoped schools were

27

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Riding for the disabled The Swindon Riding of the Disabled support group is getting ready for winter activities by holding its next meeting on 30 October, 7.30pm in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. The group is planning an equestrian items auction. New members are always welcomed. Give coordinator Linda Thompson a call on 876409.

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Eat well, look after your heart Healthy food and healthy hearts was the theme of a promotion organised by the local health team on 17 October at the West Swindon Centre. As part of 'Food for the Heart week, health workers talked to shoppers about eating low fat and high fibre foods. They also organised a questionnaire for shoppers to fill in which helped them assess their diet and give the health staff the basis for advising how diets could be altered to lower the risk of heart attack As an incentive to try the questions, the survey forms were entered into a draw for two hampers of healthy food worth £10 each which were contributed by ASDA. Health VisitorJanet Asherson said there was a great of interest in the information available and people were keen to change their diets to avoid heart disease.

Breast is best The West Swindon Health Centre, next to the Link Centre, is taking a positive approach to breast feeding. Women in the vicinity are invited to come in whenever the building is open to feed theirbabies. They don't have to be visiting the centre for any other reason. If anybody objects to a mother feeding her baby in public, that person will be found somewhere else to wait for their appointment. A baby changing shelf is being put up in the ladies lavatory and arrangements for men to change their baby's nappy are being considered.

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NEWS & VIEWS

28

Christmas Ice Show 1991

1,000 wanted to Swim For Britain In conjunction with 'Uncle Ben's and the British Olympic Association, Link Centre has been chosen as one of the venues throughout the country to hold a 'Swim for Britain' event on Monday 14 October. The swim is being held to encour- certificate, a lapel badge and a swim a Bronze Medal. It is hoped that 1,000 swimmers age more people to take part in swim- cap. Swimmer who raise more than ming for fitness and fun and to raise £30 will receive a Gold Medal, and will be taking part per event. Entry and sponsorship forms can funds for the British Team to go to those who raise more than C20 will Barcelona to compete in the 1992 receive a Silver Medal and those be obtained fromLink Centre recepOlympics. Each person will be al- who raise more than £10 will receive tion, as can further details. lowed to swim for a maximum of twenty minutes and the Link Centre event will be attended by a top OlTo increase children usage, a speympic star, Nick Gillingham, who In addition to the Swim for Britain will be on hand to put on a display event, Thamesdown are running cial Get Wet, Get Fit sticky label will be handed to every child each time and encourage people who are their own swim campaign It will n.m throughout October they come swimming from I Octoswimming. Local schools and clubs are tak- and is designed to promote swim- ber to 1 November. If they collect ing part and everyone will receive a ming activities at all Thamesdown four labels, they will be entitled to pools and to encourage swimming one FREE swim. Details of this campaign will be as a fun and enjoyable experience. Leaflets, pool opening times and displayed in the Link Centre from prices and activity information will Friday 27September until theend of be displayed prominently at all par- October and details can also be obtamed on 871212. ticipating centres.

Promotions Officer Anya Kent writes:

Christmas will soon be here and Link Centre already has its skates on for the 1991 Ice Show. Those of you lucky enough to see lastyear's performance will bewondering whether we can produce something equally as good. Well, this year's will be hard to beat, believe me! The theme of this year's show is The Brother's Grimm includingsuch stories as Hansel and Gretal, Rumplestiltskin, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty and the Dancing Princesses - I'm sure you remember them all! The performances take place on 14,15,16, l7December,witha special matinee performance on 16th. Due to the success of last year's show, we are putting on an extra performance to enable more people to attend. WehaveoverilOin the cast whose ages range from 4 to 83 years! We also have 8 Juniors, 4 Primary and 7 The first business to open at Shaw Novice skaters taking part. Ridge Leisure Park, celebrated its Costumes and scenery will be as first anniversary on 5 September colourful as ever and the show will with pizza parties for sick children be more of a pantomime especially and local pensioners, a balloon race, to appeal to children. Look out for a hot air balloon take off and a the 'secretly' rehearsed slapstick karaoke competition for customers. comedy sketch. In the afternoon teams from the New seating arrangements will police, ambulance service and the enable more disabled and elderly nursing staff at PMH competed visitors to come along, for whom against each other to make the best special facilities are provided. looking and most tasty pizzas. As a treat for everyone, Father Thamesdown's Deputy Mayor Christmas will be making a special Derique Montaut attended the wild appearance - on skates no less. events and commented that he was Tickets go on sale in October but always impressed by Pizzahut's look forward to posters and leaflets commitment to community life and beforehand. the enthusiasm of its staff to be involved. Further information can be obAbove: The Deputy Mayor Derique Montaut, Manager Richard Labrosse and tained from Alan Seabrook, Skating Development Officer tel: 871212. staff send off the racing balloons

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NEWS &VIEWS

29

The Children Act 1989 - What does it mean for parents and children?

Right number for homeopathy

From 14 October there will be a comprehensive change in the law affecting children and their parents. Linda Wright of the Thamesdown Under 5s Project explains Its Implications.

The Health Hydro telephone number given for Manjit Virik, West Swindon's homeopathic practitioner, in the Iast.Link magazine, was incorrect as she was not going to be available for appointments there Until late September. Mrs Virik practices homeopathy from her home at 26 Whittington Road, Westlea. To make an appointment, telephone her on 871621.

Most laws effecting children are now in the 1989 Act rather than being spread through various Acts of Parliament. So it includes divorce and other disputes by parents regarding their children as well as public childcare law which is about preventing family breakdown as well as protecting children. It also cover children's homes, adoption and fostering, childminding, playgroups, nurseries and daycare services. What this has given is an opportunity for the law to look at principles concerning children and their care. These can be seen as: The child's welfare - this is always paramount and must be uppermost In people's minds when making decisions about the child. In divorce cases this will be the main consideration, not the parents claim. Parental responsibility - is an important principle of the Act. Bringing up children is the responsibility of parents, provided they fulfill their obligations to them. This means that parents must always be involved in decisions about the future of their child even if the child is in care, or being given for adoption. This applies to divorced and separated parents; both have equal rights to make decisions concerning their children which they do not lose on divorce. Working in partnership - All professions must now work in partnership with parents and the children where the care or education of the child Is under discussion. No decisions should be made by the professional without the wishes and feelings of the child and parents being sought. Awareness of culture, language, ethnic background and religion For the first time ever this is taken into account and all services to chil-

dren must be aware of this when providing for them. For example food must be thought about and suitable toys provided. Looking after children is planned for in precise ways with all people caring for children under 8 years old for more than 2 hours a day, unless they are a relative or a nanny workingin the family's own home, needing to register with Social Services. Previously this only applied to children under 5 years old, so if you look after children under 8 years after school, get in touch with Social Services Department (tel. 531131) who will tell you what to do. Playgroups and nurseries have always had to register but now After School Clubs as well as Play Schemes will need to do so too. This is a very good Act, which gives the SocialService Departments the ability to provide for all children. However, they require the money to do this and the extra money has not been forthcoming from Central Government. The basic requirement for Social Services is to provide for Children in Need. These are seen as: Children who are disabled, or those who do not have the opportunity to develop or are likely to be impaired in their physical, intellectual, emotional, social or behavioural development if they do not have the support of outside services. Services must be provided for them to give the opportunity to lead as normal lives as possible. However, all children may benefit, not just those in need, because of the duty of Social Services to provide information to parents of services available. What can parents do? • Make sure you are involved with all decisions concerning your children, including those at school.

Grub's up Grub Club was featured on the front page of the May edition of The Link when a group of women from Toothill were discussing the problems faced by young mums, people out of work or on low income. After months of trying to find a venue which they could afford, Grub Club is preparing lunch every Thursday at the WestSwindonFamilyProject, Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook The club is for under 25s not in work. There is also free child care available. New members will be very welcome. To find out more, Making sure lunch isjust right, Miriam Minty and Michelle Sutton contact Miriam Minty on 421821.

• Look for, or request information from Social Services on services available for your child. Leaflets will be available from 14 October. • Don't leave your child for any more than 2 hours with a childrninder who is not registered. • Take part in the management of your children's nursery, school, playgroup etc. Its up to you! Now, in law, you are offered the opportunities to be part of decisions on how children canbeeducated and cared for. Seize these opportunities and influence changes in opportunity and attitudes.

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Letters to The Link

30

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ Graffiti - The costs to the taxpayer From Bob Pixton, Councillor for Freshbrook & Grange Park

Following the front page article in the September Link magazine, I'd like to remind readers that the spraying of graffiti doesn't improve our environment and can be a criminal offence. Unfortunately Swindon, like virtually ever other town in the country, suffers from a criminal minority who deface buildings, walls, bus-shelter and the like with often pointless and sometimes offensive graffiti. And it is worth pointing out that it costs the Borough Council, on average, M3,000 of public money a year in their attempts to clear it up. Having said that, I do recognise that for a few, graffiti is an art. But even acceptinga difference between artistic graffiti and vandalism, the fact remains that defacing public property is against the law. With regard to the two walls at the Link Centre, these were originally built as end walls for fivea-side soccer. The walls have been knocked down twice in the past by vandals and rebuilt by the Council. They have now been knocked down

again and the Council, no longer prepared to keep paying out for repair, has cleared them away altogether. Whilst I would not wish to suppress Mr Smith's artisitic tendencies (in fact, quite the reverse), I would maintain that everything has a place, and that for residents in West Swindon the vast majority of graffiti remains undesirable. Were MrSmith to obtain commissions from private firms to undertake work on their own property, I'm sure his artistic talent could do much to elevate the overall status of graffiti as an art form. In this respect I wish him well.

£1,400 for the Guide Dogs for the Blind. No small achievement in their first few months at Westlea. Westlea firefighters we are proud ofyou,notonly foryourprofessional standards, but foryour enthusiastic compassion for others not so fortunate as yourselves

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Letters were received from Maria Haggerstone, Rycote Close, Grange Park, Mr & Mrs Rayner, Warbeck Gate, Grange Park and Miss E Maloney, Godolphin Close, Freshbrook on the subject which is covered on page 21.

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Editor: Mike Smith's point was that young artists were regulating themselves and the spread of 'graffiti art' (as opposed to scrawls by vandals) was being controlled by providing a designated space to display it. After all, the walls were first decorated as an official Thamesdown Community Arts Project in 1985. Without a sanctioned surface, graffiti could well spread and young people criminalised.

Firemen help for the blind From S R Stiggers, Hon. Treasurer, Swindon & District Branch of The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association

We were all interested to read of the national successes of the Westlea Fire Crew in the September Link. We congratulate them on reaching such a high standard. These results can only beobtained by hours of hard work, but in spite of this they still found time to raise

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Are you a 'WomanReturner'? Have you considered being your own boss? The Women's Enterprise Centre at Great Western Enterprise is running a discussion session on Friday 11 October to provide women with information on what is available to help develop yourself and your business ideas. The session is free and runs between 9.30am and 4.30pm at the Great Western Business Centre, EmlynSquare,Swindon. Forfurther information, call Deborah Ackerley on 488088.

Jo Lewinski with one of the sofas he's made

If you dream of having your home completely spring-cleaned or if you need regular help with chores like ironing or would just like someone to come and clean your oven Les Daniels of Homelovers could have the solution. Les worked as Operations Managerfora large cleaning services company and was responsible for cleaningCarrefourinWestSwindon for five years. "1 started thinking how marvellous it would be if householders could have the same service - someone they could phone when they needed help with cleaning or maintenance." So Les started Homelovers in 1987 to bring domestic help to the householders of Thamesdown. Homelovers will tackleany cleaning job but it is not just a house-cleaning service. They also carry out cleaning work for property management companies You can give Les and his ladies a ring on 727926.

The price of furniture has recently risen because of the new laws requiring fire retanlent filling. So rather than than replacing that 3place suite, it makes sense to think about re-furbishing it. Jo Lewinski from Shaw runs J.D. Upholstery in his upholstery and furniture making workshop off Marlborough Road, but he will give a free estimate during a home visit, when he can also show off the large range of patterns and fabrics available to the customer. Recoveringcosts abouttwo-thirds The Link Classifieds of buying new and Jo will repair Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single springs and frames where required, column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 thus giving an almost new piece. Another advantage of recovering Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon is that you choose the covering, rather than having to take what For Sale: Roller boots size 12/13 £5 might be available in the shops. Wanted: Roller boots size 4. Jo also restores antiques and Also wanted 2 pairs football boots makes furniture. Several of his sofas size 2 and 4. Tel: 872282 and chairs can be seen in the Gilberts showroom on the corner of NewClothing Alterations & Repairs port Street and Marlborough Road. Tel: 872096 Jo Lewinski can be contacted at Mrs White, Freshbrook J.D. Upholstery on 539913 or 871 808 in the evenings.

The Freshbrook School Thrift Shop - Gear Box - is open on Monday and Friday afternoons 3pm to 4pm for good as new clothes, toys and household items.

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How the Churches respond to poverty Nick Wallace from Tattershall, Toothill reports for The Link on a church conference on poverty held in September

It seems that there are times when the church just cannot win. Recently the Archbishop of Canterbury George Care declared that 'Human wrongdoing is inextricably linked to social deprivation, poverty, poor housing and illiteracy'. He was criticised for meddling in party politics, a charge he strongly denied. On the other hand there are some who hold the view that the church is 'out of touch' and does not have anything relevant to say to this present age. Whatever your own views, George Carey's remarks were certainly welcomed at the Church Action on Poverty (CAP) National Rallyheldata churchinBloomsbuiy, London on 21 September. Four members of the Ecumenical parish of West Swindon travelled to the capital with other Christians from the Swindon area to participate in this worthwhile event which drew people from Leeds, Bristol, Manchester and the Meadow Well estate in North Shields, scene of recent rioting. To begin with the conference was staggered to learn from a poverty research analyst that a 1988 survey showed 11.75 million people are trying to survive on incomes below half the national average in comparison to 4.93 million people in 1979. The conference was also dismayed to learn that the government has ceased to publish any further figures on the poverty stricken since 1988. Perhaps it might find any new statistics unpalatable? Even more concerning was evidence froma Directorof National Childrens Home (NCH) who said a

Representing Freshbrook & Grange Park Thamesdown councillors Sue Bates and Bob Pixton hold surgeries on Wednesday 7pm7.30pm in the Community Room, Freshbrook School Thamesdown & Wilts County Council/or Simon Cordon can be contacted on 617723.

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 1' also All Saints, L. Millicent

recent survey showed parents going hungry to provide food for their children and that malnutrition is a very serious problem amongst the poor in rural and urban areas of the UK. Is this because the poor are uneducated in the purchasing of food? NCH in their interviews have found that it is quite the reverse. The poorare wellaware of nutritious foods but simply cannot afford to buy them on present income support levels. What is needed to highlight the plight of the poor? Fairer media coverage, anewnational survey and specific changes in wealth distribution which at present penalizes young and old alike are just a few of the things CAP is pressing for. Through listening, prayer and action CAP is a witness that the church is on the move and is not afraid to get involved where social issues are concerned.

Councillor contacts Representing Toothill, Westlea, Shaw and Sparcells Thamesdown council/or Ricky Midwinter and Wilts County Council/or Alan Winmiil: Friday 18 Oct - Westlea Community Room, Westlea School, 6pm-7pm Friday 15 Nov - Shaw Community Centre, 6pm- 7pm Thamesdown councillors Rosemarie Saunders and Jo Stevens: Saturday 19 Oct - Westlea Community Room, 11 .3Opm-1 pm Saturday 16 Nov - Shaw Community Centre, 11 .30pm-1 pm

31

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