October 2001 Swindon Link

No. 233 • October 2001 • Circulation 22,000

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

Swindon's education authority fail Ofsted.

See page 5.

Kids bus to school out of town: page 12

Atlantic rower l eaves new babe behind

Norman Butler from Westlea is a new dad, but he's gone away for three months. See page 2.

2

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Spirit of Swindon carries best wishes from twin town Salzgitter Westlea rower plans solo 3,000 mile Atlantic crossing New dad Norman Butler, 37, from Millicent, who married Norman Benwell Close, Westlea is now in and Linda last year.

Tenerife making last minute At a community send off organpreparations for an epic three ised by The Link at the West Swinmonth 3,000 mile row across the don Centre on 1 September, NorAtlantic in his self-built boat the man was surprised to be presented Spirit of Swindon. with a flag by the Mayor of His three year dream to take part Salzgitter, Herr Rudi Rueckert, acin the Ward Evans Atlantic Chal- companied by the Mayor of Swinlenge started to come unstuck in don councillor David Cox. late July when his second rowing Norman gave the mayors a partner pulled out. But undeterred guided tour of the Spirit, which he Norman decided that he would do has built from a standard kit supit alone. plied by race organisers The ChalNorman also became a father on lenge Business, headed by Sir Chay 9 September, the day before a bless- Blythe who rowed across the Ating of the boat conducted by Rev lantic in 1966.

Peter Knight, of All Saint's, Lydiard At 23 feet long and just over 6

feet at its widest point, the mayors saw how vulnerable he will be from mountainous seas, passing whales and the danger of being run down by ships.

There is a small rest cabin, but all supplies will have to be stowed on board as Norman will be totally unassisted. He has a satellite telephone and rescue will be available in an extreme emergency.

If he was in the race, R ev Peter Knight, with Norman the trans-Atlantic and Sir Maurice Johnston Toasting the Spirit with champagne provided by the West Swindon Centre, crossing would take from right, coun Cox, Norman, Detlef Engster, chief executive of Stadt between 70 and 90 days. On his show that an ordinary working Salzgitter, Linda Butler, Herr Rudi Rueckert, Mayor's partner Jenni Dean own and taking time off to rest, person can set extraordinary goals Norman may not arrive until the and work hard to achieve them.

New Year.

"It is a great pity that I no longer He said, "I took up rowing five have a partner to take part, but I years ago, inspired by the Olym- feel I can do it on my own."

Norman has had a team of propic gold medal success of Steve Redgrave, who subsequently be- fessional advisors who have came my patron, along with the helped him prepare physically and Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sir mentally for the endurance of being at sea for three to four months.

Morris Johnson.

So far, he has raised ÂŁ60,000 in "I read about the first Atlantic race in 1997 and it was a challenge business sponsorship, from fundI had to take up. I feel I have under- raising events, personal donations Story continued opposite achieved in my past and wanted to

3

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Keep in touch with the Spirit Norman hopes to have a satellite transponder fitted to The Spirit of Swindon so that you can follow his progress at: www.oceanrowing.com You can also get updates at www.swindonlink.com BBC Wiltshire Sound will be carrying weekly reports.

and his own pocket. He is appealing for the last £4,000 to cover the total cost of his expedition.

Herr Rueckert congratulated Norman for his courage in taking part in such a hazardous adventure and said the best wishes of the people of Salzgitter would be travelling with him. "He is a brave man, I will pray for him," he said.

Coun Cox also wished Norman well and said the people of the town are behind the Spirit of Swindon.

At the blessing on 10 September, Rev Knight prayed for God's protection for Norman, his safe passage and return to his wife Linda and their newborn baby Melissa, who arrived at 8lbs 3oz the day before.

Sir Maurice said that when Norman first approached him, he said he was 'mad' to try.

"I used the same term when John Ridgeway, a former student of mine at Sandhurst military college, told me of his plan to row the Atlantic with Chay Blythe in 1966.

"Norman is a fine young man with the guts and determination to do something extraordinary. I am desperately sorry that he cannot compete in the race and I have counselled him to carefully consider all the factors before setting out on his own. He must not be too proud to call it off if everything is not right; he owes it to his wife and new child."

Linda Butler said she was right behind Norman in his quest. "He's been dedicated to the row since before I met him. He's always asked my viewpoint on everything he's doing and I'm backing him all the way. " Melissa is such a contented baby. It's amazing how well behaved she is, considering how busy we were with all the preparations.

We'll be recording her a lot on video so that Norman can catch up.,, Norman has discovered that he has a poor knowledge of nursery rhymes and has set himself the task of learning them by heart so that he can entertain Melissa on his return.

Go with Norman in spirit at the Link Active Lifestyle Centre: see page 29.

Condemning the terrorists Mohammad Salas Khan, 62, a representative of two Muslim groups in Swindon, the Pakistan Welfare Association and Jamia Mohammadia (spiritual group), who was presented with an award by the Prime Minister last year for his services to the community, writes, truth and nothing I condemn the most but the whole truth dastardly act of the before attacking. unknown killers, His agencies have who have disowned failed, but they must humankind in the not fail again by makterrorist action at the ing villains out of inWorld Trade Centre.

We Muslims are nocents. We hope that a true united efpeace loving people, but we know that fort will find the terthere are good and rorists and that they bad in every religion will be brought to and race. Islam justice and heavily Mr Khan holding the means peace. punished. award community service We also condemn There are over two from Tony Blair billion Muslims in the brutal attack in the world; only a microscopic mi- Swindon on a Muslim girl on 14 nority support terrorism. Few September. We very much hope share the objectives of the Taliban, that innocent people will be pronor do they want to have any links tected in all Western countries, and with Osama bin Laden. if force is to be used, no civilian This obviously underscores the population will be targeted in any need to clearly draw a distinction part of the world. between the extremist religious The gap between rich and poor groups and the huge body of the in the world is widening. Wealth is great monotheistic world faith, Is- used for making new weapons, lam. but many poor families are sufferTherefore before acting Presi- ing on earth. dent Bush, please ensure that no Let us pray to God to help us all stone is left unturned in seeking find peace with each other.

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The Link Magazine • October 2001

City status - are we ready?

The government is inviting towns to apply for city status by 12 October so the Queen can announce four in her Jubilee year, 2002. Could Swindon be chosen?

The Link took a highly sceptical view in 1999 that Swindon was ready to be a city for the millennium. Regrettably we still take that view, for the same two reasons. Firstly, little effort is being made to explain the benefits of becoming a city and secondly, little is being done to involve the people of the town in the process.

Apart from writing to the council, there have been no opportunities for people - as individuals or in community groups - to become actively engaged in the process of becoming a city.

It's all too cosy, hidden and detached. There have been no public meetings, no open debate on the matter and no chance for the people of the town to take ownership of the

issue.

There is so much to shout about in Swindon, and much to hope for. It's a good place to live with so many people doing positive things. It's a great town, but is it a city?

The Link and our web site are the only media where questions about the validity of becoming a city is being discussed.

As Andrew Nye of the Swindon Association of Primary Headteachers said, on the release of the Ofsted report on Swindon education department, (see opposite), "Swindon Council should concentrate on getting an excellent education service before thinking about becoming a city."

Sadly, the people have not had the chance to have their say. Until they do, we will continue to question the honesty of becoming one.

Here we publish views on the subject. You can also see the comments at www.swindonlink.com Let us know what you think.

the Link Published by West Swindon Publications

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282

Yes - let's go for it From Fay Howard, Risingham Mead, Swindon Although I don't fully understand all it entails, I fully support Swindon's bid for city status.

Swindon should be a city. We have a great past in the railways, a great future as the growth and low unemployment shows. We do have culture, not as much as some places admittedly, but we are vibrant, diverse, innovative and forward looking. If any town should be a city, surely it is Swindon.

I was disappointed with aspects of the last bid for city status. I didn't feel part of it, nor felt that it was

behind. We have the Town Gardens and the Bowl, Steam, the Great Western Communi ty Forest, the Outlet Village, Coate Water, Lydiard Park, provides more community halls, the town centre, opportunity for the Arts Centre, Museum, the new us all to put our Great Western Hospital, Universi ty case, with bids and library coming - and enough from schools, roundabouts - to surely qualify for communities, churches and indi- city status!

So lets speak out. There was an viduals, as well as industry and the council. invitation from council leader Sue For too long Swindon has accepted Bates in the last Link to have our a second class image. We are a first voices heard in support of a bid for class town who deserve not to be left city status, I hope we use it.

What jewels does Swindon have? asks Jean Saunders of Swindon Friends of the Earth Having been accused of basing the previous bid for city status on purely materialistic grounds, Swindon Borough Council now pins its hopes on the support of Swindonians and voluntary organisations to promote the town in order to gain this dubious

it seems the voices of those wanting to profit from developing more countryside or open spaces around

°" the town have been heard more loudly than those wanting to see Swindon honour. make the best of what it t 1^.

The local authority certainly won't already has. get my backing when it continues to Swindon Borough Council has follow a policy of economic growth asked us to name Swindon's jewels at the expense of the environment as part of the city bid application. and social well-being. Of course peo- Does this mean that if we name irreple need employment and houses to live, but is it necessary to move people to jobs rather than direct new employment to where unemployment is high?

Who gives a damn, apart from multinational companies and politicians, whether Swindon is recognised for its regional importance?

Swindon is described as the powerhouse for the south-west but who wants to live in an engine and be part of a stinking machine where profits come before quality?

In just 30 years Swindon's main attraction, its lovely countryside, has been gobbled up to the east, to the west, to the north and soon to the south in the name of growth. So far

magazine Editorial copy date for November: 8 October Published: 27 October Copy for December: 8 November

Fax: (01793) 878189 "The Link was first published for the West e: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre www.swindonlink.com and, in fact, won a competition to name the Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

Editorial: Tel: (01793) 872282

TO BOOK ADVERTISING:

owned by the people of Swindon.

I hope this bid

The contents of The Link are protected

' by copyright. Use of advertisements in Call Jenni Fowler on printed or electronic form is forbidden (01793) 872531 unless an advertiser or publisher has Booking deadline: 5 October sought permission. Articles and photoPrinted by Goodhead Print graphs require similar authority

placeable assets such as Seven Fields Nature Reserve, wildlife habitats, the Mechanics Institute, the Corn Exchange, the Roman archaeological sites and the countryside around the town that they will be enhanced and protected? I doubt it.

City status means more housing estates, factories, offices, supermarkets, car parks and traffic.

Do people support city status?

From Eddie Bedwell, Chair of the 21st Century Swindon Forum

The unanimous opinion of the Forum Committee members was that they could not endorse Swindon's bid for city status.

Committee members were conWe considered that the Borough should see the town in reality and cerned as to whether the Borough that amenities such as a first class had carried out a proper public conlibrary, a real town square, a better sultation on the matter when a TV museum/art gallery need to be in survey had indicated that two thirds place before time and resources are of the Swindon people surveyed opposed the bid. spent on obtaining the 'name' city.

Why waste money?

From David Holliday, The Lawn, Old Town In response to the invitation, in the September Link Magazine, I have fond memories of Swindon including: • The Lawns (Old Town), left to the people by the Goddard family, at one time fully maintained - now no longer.

• The Link Centre - at one time a pleasing building and maintained - now no longer.

• Swindon Centre - with its reasonable shops and clean precinct - now no longer.

• Swindon library with the promise of a permanent site some thirty years ago - now part of another forward plan - now no longer?

• Swindon Reference library with its comparative peace and quiet facilities for study, also with promises of a permanent site - now no longer. We now have to endure unacceptable noise and loud music from the rooms above.

• A hospital of which Swindon was justly proud - now no longer.

In its place a seemingly splendid building but, I understand, lacks adequate accommodation.

• The Corn Exchange (Old Town) and the Mechanics Institute, at one time splendid and 'active' buildings and part of Swindon's heritage, of which Swindon should be proud - now no longer.

• Vehicles not causing congestion and not permitted to double park or park on double-yellow lines - now no longer.

• The peoples' voice was at one time heard - now no longer.

Why waste our money striving for city status when we need to get our town in order first ?

The Link Magazine • October 2001

" We have not got it right and we're sorry," Sue Bates, leader, Swindon Borough Council

ABULC)US

CAN E ^FFERSi

Devastating report on Swindon education authority Poor relations between senior officers and schools, marked by inadequate leadership, confusion, uncertainty and a lack of trust, underpin a highly critical report of Swindon as an education authority, by government education inspectors Ofsted, in conjunction with the Audit Commission, released on 14 September.

As a result, senior officers remain in post, with support from staff seconded from Hampshire, but councillor Chris Eley, cabinet member for education, has resigned.

Despite the fact that two thirds of Swindon schools are assessed

by Ofsted as good or very good, in stark, savage statements, the report rips through any pretence that Swindon has run education well since it took over responsibility on becoming a unitary authority in 1997. 'The high ambitions and sense of optimism' at the time is marked by the failure'to establish the transparent and effective decisionmaking structures that would enable them to translate high ambitions

consultation. ..thereby obscuring the essential accountabilities.'

Strategy is not communicated effectively and in key areas such as school places, special needs and provision of behaviour support, Swindon is performing unsatisfactorily.

'All in all the partnership with schools is far from secure.' This results in high levels of confusion, suspicion and mistrust which consumes headteacher's energies and deflects them from their essential task of raising standards in schools.

However, some services and individuals are well regarded,

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their effect is diluted by the poor performance in other areas. Functions discharged well include early into reality. years education, 'Difficult deciSue Bates, reading the report financial support sions have had to be taken. The reasons for arriving services, the literacy strategy, supat them have not always been clear port to school governors, and supto schools. This, together with the port to raise attainment of chilfrequent failure to use funding to dren in public care.

The council has until 22 Decembest effect, has engendered a climate of mistrust. Schools do not ber to produce an action plan in believe that consultation influences response to the 46 recommendadecision making. Their trust in tions in the report, which satisfies elected members has been dam- the Department for Education and aged, perhaps more than is en- Skills. If not, it could lose its educatirely warranted, by the belief that tion function.

Council leader Sue Bates said members interfere too much and that officers lack the ability to pro- that the report had been accepted in full by the council and that memtect the interests of education.'

In relation to education, particu- bers, officers and headteachers larly schools, the report goes on to were committed to working tostate that 'the council has not been gether to rebuild the education well served by its senior officers.' service. "The council must not hide 'Strategic management and plan- from the issues identified; we have ning are poor or very poor in most not got it right, we're sorry."

But whilst recognising the strucareas.' 'Plans, notably for school places, asset management, special tural and organisational failures, educational needs, behaviour, the she pointed out that Swindon edurecruitment and retention of teach- cation is the lowest funded uniers and information and commu- tary education authority, receivnication technology attempt to ing £6.5 million less than others of comply with national require- comparable size. This has proments but they are often over-bu- found and negative effects on the reaucratic and impracticable.' 'The delivery of the service.

Peter Wells, chair of the Swinplans do not provide schools with don Association of Secondary a coherent way forward.'

The report says the LEA 'does Heads, said the report contents, not effectively support school im- though shocking and deeply disprovement. Rather it impedes itby tressing, were not a surprise.

Continued page 6 engaging schools in lengthy

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Swindon education department fails Ofsted - continued "It reflects our unthe belief that given the derstanding and belief resources, the political that there have been commitment and the failures at every level existing professionalof the local authority ism of our teachers, we ever since the inception can achieve a real imof the new LEA in provement in the qual1997." ity of education in the Primary, secondary town." and special school Andrew Nye, chair headteachers have of the Swindon Assoagreed to work with ciation of Primary Swindon to salvage a Heads, characterised solution on condition Director of Education nwlnaon Louncn as that: having a macho culMike Lusty, remains ture. He described it as 1. political leaders in post to provide work together continuity and liaison 'unreconstructed town hall management more in the interests of appropriate to a time when it last the children and schools; ran education in 1973.' "Swindon 2. education be the highest priority for Swindon Council; has been proud of having a low council tax and fond of reminding 3. officers are given the power to act and make changes, and people of central government dethat the LEA co-operates fully ficiencies, whilst not always spending all the available money, and with any external provider mis-managing what it has spent. appointed by the DfES; "Head teachers have not been lis4. there is full and public recogtened to in the past. As a result of nition of the serious underOfsted we have given Swindon a funding of schools and there very hard time and we believe there is a significant injection of is now a commitment to change. money in the next financial "Schools have been doing well year to dramatically narrow the in spite of Swindon Council; tofunding gap of £6.5 million, gether we can build a good educaand that funding be sustained; tion system. If not, Swindon will 5. internal improvements be no longer be an education authoridentified and opportunities to ity." use external providers be • Swindon education's governor explored; the criteria for support is the first council decision making being service to receive the prestigious improving quality and raising Charter Mark the achievement of children and young people in the town. • Children bus out to Fairford - see page 12 Mr Wells added, "the headteachers in Swindon are united in • New school in a mobile - page 13

Ken Livingstone style mayor unlikely

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Swindon Council is likely to retain the leader and cabinet system of local government and not opt for an elected mayor, following a report to a council meeting on 27 September, as The Link is distributed.

In the last year the council has findings were being reported to a carried out a consultation exercise Consultation Review Panel cominto the way in which the council's prised of the three political group business should be conducted in leaders and three prominent lay future, a requirement on all larger people: Mike Hopkins, Principal authorities who must submit their of Swindon College; Phil Baker of conclusions to the government be- Voluntary Action Swindon and fore putting any new systems into David Saunders from the Swinplace. don Chamber of Commerce and A questionnaire was circulated Industry. to every household in Swindon, It will be for the council to debut a significant response is un- cide which system is submitted to likely. The council will also rely on the Department of Transport, Lofeedback from its Citizen's Panel cal Government and the Regions. of 2,640 local residents, focus Councillors are known to favour groups, presentation to area pan- the cabinet arrangement and early els and parish councils, and a con- indications are that the outcome of ference of those it sees as the consultation process, whatever 'stakeholders'. The exercise has its validity, will justify no signifibeen more intensive than most cant change. neighbouring councils who have The government has insisted in most cases, not surveyed every that some councils go to referenhousehold. dum, but this is not expected to be As The Link went to press, the the case in Swindon.

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Plans for last stage of North Swindon development at Middle Clover - on show in October The North Swindon Development Company has submitted a Framework Plan which outlines its proposals south of the new Northern Orbital Road (extending Thamesdown Drive).

The Framework Plan is submitted as a requirement of a condition attached to the 'Hayden 3 Master Plan outline planning permission which was granted by Swindon Borough Council in June 2000.

It develops and interprets the Master Plan, identifying opportunities and examining in detail the existing development, topography and landscape features. It provides detailed design briefs and offers guidance on residential and commercial development, housing density, highway matters, noise attenuation measures, conservation of flora and fauna and open space requirements.

Haydon 3 is divided into three Framework Plan areas. The first one, known as the Redhouse and Oakhurst Framework Plan was approved for Development Control purposes in December 2000 and work on site has now commenced.

This second Framework plan, to be known as Middle Clover covers an area to the south of the NOR/ Thamesdown Drive, to the north of Haydon Brook and west of Lady Lane.

Following comments from residents and otherintrerestedbodiesatthepublie exhibition advertised below, it will be considered by the Planning Committee. It is anticipated that the first

for

the development area to the

dwellings will be started in 2002. '' The plan provides a de, sign strategy and overall , guidance essential to achieving a high quality "' development. Individual schemes will have to be designed against the backgroundofthisdesignguidrt. ance and a `Design Statement' will be required of each each planning application Semi-rural ' for individual developlayout ment sites.

The Framework Plan is divided into two character

areas namely: Semi Rural and Urban Core. Each of these areas will have a distinctive identity, which together will create a strong sense of place.

The Semi Rural Character Area is a response to the existing retained

Swindon Borough Council

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vegetation and areas of open space,

Proposed Framework Plan for land south of the Thamesdown Drive extension, Haydon 3, Swindon This notice is to advise members of the public that an exhibition of the above Framework Plan will be held at Haydon Wick Parish Council Offices, Thames Avenue, Haydon Wick.

Before the Borough Council formally considers the developer's proposals for the area shown below, it would like to hear your views.

Please come along and fill in a comment form

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providing an edge and transition between landscape and urban areas. This area will include an informal pattern of development with the existing retained vegetation and the new landscape treatment providing the dominant elements. The character will also be reflected in the housing form, highway design and open space and architectural treatment.

The area will be defined by lower density development with a mix of detached, semi detached and terraced building forms in a landscaped setting.

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A copy of the Frarnewor • k Plan documents are also available at the Public Counter at the Borough Council's offices at Premier House, Station Road, Swindon Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm until Friday 16th November 2001.

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These formal areas will provide variety and strong focal points within the development. Densities will be higher than in the semi rural area with a large portion of terraced and three storey buildings.

The Link Maaazine • October 2001

Volunteers' eyes needed for play areas Haydon Wick Parish Council is appealing for community minded people to keep an eye out for the thirteen play areas across the parish which covers Haydon Wick village, Greenmeadow, a big section of Abbey Meads and much of Taw Hill.

The parish council has direct responsibility for three large play areas, but oversees ten new ones owned and maintained by Swindon Council which may be handed over in time.

Vandalism in play areas is a constant problem, especially where equipment is hidden from view and Eddie Bedwell, chair of the parish council recreation committee, is calling for greater community involvement in monitoring their condition so that children can play in safety. "Swindon Services and members of the recreation committee inspect equipment on a monthly basis, but we need people Eddie Bedwell, with fellow parish willing to walk around the play councillor Phil Eagle, at King George areas every few days. You would V play area in Haydon Wick not be required to take direct ac- the gates at 5pm earlier in the year.

The parish council would weltion or intervene; we're asking volunteers to call the parish office if come more than one volunteer per equipment has been damaged, or play area; it would suit somebody where maintenance is needed, for living closeby, a parent or grandexample, if broken glass needs to parent. "The more checks that are be cleared up. Instruction on what done, the less likely an accident to to look for would be given before a child and hopefully a reduction in vandalism," said Eddie. the start of duties."

To offer your assistance, visit He added that damage and noise caused by young people at the King Sue Martin, clerk to the parish at George V recreation ground in the Parish Office on Thames AvHayden Wick has reduced since enue, next to the Haydon Centre, the parish council started to lock or call 722446.

Parish council goes on-line Information about the members and business of Haydon Wick Parish Council can now be found on the internet. The council's website, www.haydonwick.gov.uk, displays minutes, agenda papers, the diary of meetings, recent publications such as performance reports and details of how to contact councillors.

Ten years strong at super centre The Haydon Centre held what the management committee chairman called 'a super successful' fun day on 8 September to celebrate its tenth anniversary.

Hundreds of people called into the centre, to take part in football, badminton and snooker competitions, fitness and martial arts demonstrations.

The gardening society, sugarcraft, lacemakers and bee keepers were just a few of the user groups which put on displays, whilst a fun fair operated all day in the car park.

In the evening over 250 people enjoyed the sellout family disco and barbeque.

"It really was very successful," said chairman Brian Holden. "The centre is unique in Swindon as it is managed by a locally elected committee, but run by Swindon Services. This means people who live in the area have a real stake in their Brian Holden enhances his pate with a local facilities, whilst profession- bit of greenary, with butterfly face als deliver the services to a high painted rnum Rachel Painter and her three year old, Bethany standard."

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Many is the time that she and her mother Liz Elliott have turned up at the car park next to the Link Centre to see fit, perfectly able bodied people leaping out of their cars parked in spaces reserved for the disabled.

Fleur, who has just started at Greendown School, suffers from spinal muscular atrophy which means she has very little movement in her limbs and is confined to a wheelchair. To get it out of the car Liz has to erect two ramps before lifting Fleur into it. This means all the extra space allocated to the disabled Fleur Perry, in front of her mum's car, outside the Link Centre with the ramps parking area is used.

"Many of the cars parked needed to unload her wheelchair in place closest to the Link Centre don't have orange disabled badges," said raining. The parking spaces are Fleur. "Recently we saw two there for a reason and it's very women come along in a sports car, frustrating that able bodied peopark closest to the Link, and run in ple can't take those few more steps." wearing their aerobics gear."

West Swindon Centre manager Liz said the abuse of disabled spaces takes place all over the town. Julian Leggett said cars not dis"Those who do not have to live playing an orange badge have a with disability do not realise the sticker attached to the windscreen amount of extra effort required to explaining bluntly that they are care for someone. It takes quite a parked in the wrong place and time to get the wheelchair out of depriving somebody with a greater the car, and it's no joke when it's need.

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The Link Magazine • October 2001

Bosnia based policeman soon to return to Swindon beat

School of Motoring

A Swindon policeman is looking forward to returning to work in the town this month after a hard tour of duty with the United Nations in Bosnia.

New local school recently opened

PC Qahir Sheikh swapped the relatively calm pavements of Haydon Wick last October to join a contingent of officers from across Britain and other countries to monitor the meth-

"People fled for their lives, but many are returning because of the international peace keepers in the country. Often the returnees discover

a local policeman and his family have moved into their ods used by local policemen and inhome and getting vestigate incorrect them out is a potenuse of police powtially explosive situation. It means ers in the war torn country. you have to be very The demanding tactful in how you Q in his United UN working condihandle the situaNations uniform tion. The local potions has made Below: the ravages of war lice don't like havhome visits difficult, but'Q', as he is known in the ing foreigners interferring in their Wiltshire force, has managed three business, but it's our task to ensure breaks during his year away. that ordinary people are treated In an exclusive interview with correctly and that one ethnic group The Link last February, he described is not oppressing another."

More recently Q has been monihis work and also the devastation still remaining six years after the toring activities in the traffic deSerbs and Bosnians went to war. partment where opportunities for Moving from the neat tidy corruption are rife. "Pay for local surburbia of his Haydon Wick beat, policemen is about two months in and West Swindon where he lives, arrears, so there is great temptato a mountainous region just three tion to stop vehicles on the slighthours flying time away was a est excuse. There are many comshock. The derelict buildings pep- plaints against officers taking pered with bullet marks and gap- bribes for not pressing charges which have to be ing holes from investigated." rocket explosions, Q's assessment the lack of basic of change in amenities and the Bosnia is gloomy. absence of decent "The local saying TV were eye openis' polaco, polaco' ers. which means paMeeting him tience. This can again in late August before his rebe very, very frusturn to Bosnia after trating. a holiday with his "Our task is to family, Q said he assist in the creawas looking fortion of a demoward to coming cratically accountable police back to Swindon at force who are exthe end of October.

"Not seeing my wife and children pected to apply the high standards for long periods whilst under great of policing found in Britain. But stress in a difficult working envi- the slower pace of life and the obronment has made me appreciate structive activities by some of the local officials means progress is them even more," he said.

For the last few months Q has difficult.

"The economy is very dependbeen based in the north of Bosnia in Banjaluka, a town about the size ent on money poured in by the of Swindon. Fierce fighting in European Union and the presence nearby villages during the war saw of UN personnel. The tensions beCroats and Muslim Bosnians tween ethnic groups is much in driven out by the Serbs. Doing the evidence and there are flare ups job of two people, though having which the international forces have to cope with a workload for five, to step in and sort out. The general Q's task has been to investigate feeling amongst the locals is that civil rights abuses by local police- without the peacekeepers the country could explode again." men.

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12 The Link Magazine • October 2001

All aboard for Fairford School

Railway realism at STEAM

The exodus of 90 Swindon children to Farmors School, Fairford in neighbouring Gloucestershire, which was exclusively reported by The Link in May and August hit the local and national media headlines at the beginning of September when youngsters were pictured climbing onto buses organised by parents.

Julie Little, who made the initial but I and others have no conficontact with Farmors in February, dence it will turn itself around in had coordinated a group of par- our children's school lifetime. ents dissatisfied with the second"Stagecoach has been criticised ary education available to their for their services elsewhere, but I children, particularly the desig- have to give them credit for the nated secondary school, Hreod way in which they have helped us Parkway, which failed its Ofsted achieve our aim." inspection in April.

Before getting on the bus, Adam She said it was an emotional Woodhall, said, "it's exciting and moment to see her son Neil get on scary to start a new school; there's the bus with other children, oppo- quite a few of us from Abbey site Abbey Meads primary school. Meads. We liked the induction day "After many months of sheer de- in July; I think we'll get on well." termination, I am so pleased local After his first day, Neil Little parents have achieved a choice of said, "I feel really happy at secondary school for our children. Farmors. I enjoyed my lessons and "I feel for Hreod and its staff, have already made new friends."

Children at Brook Field School in Shaw recently made a return trip to Swindon's history courtesy of the Steam Museum.

Waiting for the bus to Farmors in Abbey Meads, opposite the primary school many of the children left in July

Some of the youngsters who visited Steam in front of their classroom display, from left, Tom Nightingale, Lauren Fuller, Kirsty Hargreave, Simon Sanghera, Rebecca Kent, Isaac Steele

As part of their topic of studying local history and geography year 4 children first visited the museum in April to find out what it was like to live in the past. They found out about life in Victorian Swindon, the conditions people lived and worked in and how the influence of the railway has shaped the town.

The Brook Field children were invited back free of charge when staff at Steam were interviewing candidates for an Education Officer's post and needed a group of children for them to work with.

This gave them a chance to take in things they had missed first time around.

Teacher Carol Sampey said, "the

museum provided an excellent springboard to the topic at the beginning of term. They were able to handle artefacts and they loved the realistic models which helped bring the topic to life.

"The hands-on nature of the museum and realising just how huge the steams engines are were things they could not glean from books.

As well as being able to view the displays, the children also talked with former railway workers about life 'inside the works.'

The highlight for many was experiencing the foot plate simulator. Catherine Pinner said, "I felt like I was really on a train."

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13

Third school could open in mobiles The rapid increase in the number of prima ry age children in North Swindon and the failure of Swindon Council's bid to the Government last December to support private capital funding to build new primary schools in the area means mobiles being put up for the first time at Catherine Wayte prima ry, and possibly additional tempora ry buildings or building alterations at Abbey Meads School.

The third primary school, in the The foundations for mobiles at "We have always known that our planning easier if we know which yet unbuilt Haydon 3 develop- Catherine Wayte School were in- numbers would grow in the early children will come to us, and if ment, was due to open in Septem- stalled whilst it was being built. A years, and mobiles would have to siblings will attend in due course." ber2002,buthasbeendelayeduntil year after opening the school is be used at some point.

At Abbey Meads School, places the following year. However, full, with 70 children joining re"Having considered all the fac- have to be found for another fifty rather than expand Catherine ception classes in September. tors, our proposal to house a third children in September 2002 and Wayte School, the governors have Headteacher Gaye Ching said school in separate buildings on our governors are proposing to Swintold Swindon Council that they governors and staff had consid- site would be the least disruptive don Council that a mezzanine floor would prefer a new school to open ered the long term implications of in the long term for the children in a roof space be built, to add to as a separate organisation in mo- taking in even more children and who attend and those who will the mobiles already on site. bile classrooms on their site, shar- then losing many of them a year come to Catherine Wayte in the The council's education and ing facilities where appropriate, later when the new school opens. future. It also makes longer term community committee considered ^ the proposals at its meeting on 26

Artists show holiday talents Gifted young arti ents to good use d week arts prograr merholidays,atP funded by the Del cation and Emplc Run by Peatmc Terri Peacock, the 11 to 15 years w

Swindon primal Greendown secot ommended by the plore a wide ran and techniques.

The theme of tt water and wetla trips were made Wild Fowl Centre ter to sketch the workshops, the papier mache po

ture, felt and appl and had the chan fire clay pots in a The project had technology elemei spent an afternoon Town compute] processing poem, theme. Christoph Grange Park wrol visit to Coate %\

Summ( Reading was all holidays with a d summer reading Volunteers wer read, in return foi books received a organised by the I Wendy Hawkins from Toothill, receives a reading carnival medal

from joint coordinators

Jenni Carter and Anna Jones, with childminder Gillian Campbell, rear left, and youngsters Kyran Griffin, Joshua Tilling, Emily Smith

Ir September

14

The Link Magazine • October 2001

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The playgroup was told in April that it had to vacate the community hall at Greendown School because rising numbers of pupils meant it had to be used for the curriculum. The management committee decided they had to keep the pre-school alive in Grange Park Jackie Morgan, centre, with members of the playand with permission group management committee watch their building from the school, se- arrive at Greendown School cured a temporary building and tionwide who donated £15,000 and had it moved over the summer we organised the building to be holidays. moved. But we just did not have However delays in refurbish- enough time to complete the fitment have meant that the group ting out and decoration for the has had to move to Toothill Farm beginning of term. social hall on a temporary basis.

"The children are happily setCommittee chairwoman Jackie tled into Toothill Farm and parMorgan said the summer holidays ents are coping with the extra dishad been frantic. "We had a fantas- tance to travel. We hope to be ready tic response from Innogy and Na- to reopen in early November."

The Coffee Stop on Wednesdays 9.30am to 11.30am, is the place to meet new friends, take part in craft activities and give children a chance to play in the large hall at the Church of Christ the Servant.

Run by Shena Price and Becky Templeman from the NSPCC North Swindon Family Project, parents are welcome to drop in at any time during the session. For details, call 705810.

Inverary Road, Wroughton ic Ch1id

After sixteen years in Grange Park, Greendown Playgroup has moved to Toothill, but only until half term.

Abbey Meads Coffee Stop back in action

CIS is supported by the Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership Reg. charity: 1081621

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Sheena Price, left, and Becky Templeman, centre right, with mums at The Coffee Stop

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SiEaferrwnf 0/&,L4fmrr ,}a3hiori SIoui wifhJjtorne cI /e3E £hibifion,Sa 7 October, DeVere Hotel, Shaw Ridge Organised by Lydiard Millicent Pre-school Exhibition opened by The Mayor of Swindon at 11.00am

Fine Arts & Crafts, Jewellers, Hair Consultations, Reiki Healing.

Sale of books, lingerie, home products, CD Rams. Entry £1 (under 14s free) Fashion Show at 3.30pm compered by Graham Seaman of BBC Wiltshire Sound

Tanwood School performing and wearing Spotlight Dance wear Catwalk modelling of fashions from Carole Waller, John Anthony, Sargeo Kids, Juvals, Dorothy Reglar, Rosella Gowns, Tinkerbell, and hair designs by Gatsbys.

Followed by auction of donations including current signed Chelsea FC shirt, 'Life on the road' signed by Mick Jagger, plus a Dyson, DVD Player, DVDs and more.

Tickets £5, includes entry to the exhibition and free prize draw.

For tickets call Paula Webley 01793 887443, Pina Brown 01793 770081 or Jacky Cowdrey 01793 873573.

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31st October, 7pm Including l°' hot soup Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, Swindon (Approx. 3 miles NW of Swindon, on the B4553 west of the A419)

Celebrating the fruit of life Music, performers, information and hundreds of apple varieties will be available to taste at the Great Western Community Forest Apple Day on Saturday 27 October.

Taking place at Southfield Junior School, Shrivenham Road, Highworth. 11 am to 4pm, this great family event gives you the chance to celebrate the history, folklore and customs of apples and orchards.

There will be childrens workshops using fruit and wood, and traditi onal apple games. A team of apple specialists will be on hand to identify different varieties and to demonstrate how to make cider and wine. Skilled craftsmen will also be showing off skills and trades dating back through generations.

And to get your feet tapping at this feast of family fun, that nationally acclaimed band of yokels The Wurzels, left, will be performing their top ten hits, including 'Cider Drinking."

Right, Roxanne and Macaila Hayes at last year's Apple Day held at Upper Shaw Farm

The Giant * Costumes (500) for children and adults Masks: Freddie Kruger, ' ` Scream, Jason Pumpkins and cauldrons A A Smoke effect machines * Spiders webs, nails, fingers & tongues * Witch & devil wigs, hats and capes Visit our 8 foot alien sleep chamber

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Check out the latest details on the new Great Western Community Forest web site at www.forestweb.org.uk

Swindon's Cinders spectacular One of the most glittering and magical pantomimes comes to the Wyvern this December, with Britain's zaniests visual comedian leading the hilarious, crazy antics.

Bernie Clifton plays Buttons like no other; look out for some of his incredible characters, including a giant shark, a piggyback nun, a sumo wrestler or an Arab sheikh. as well as an ostrich.

Appearing beside him will be Rod, Jane and Freddy, Emma Willis from Grange Hill. Paul Mead and Swindon's Pollyann Tanner with the Tanwood Dancers. Tickets are already selling well; book now.

The Mayor of Swindon coun Dave Cox with Bernie Clifton and Pollyann Tanner are joined at the Cinderella launch on 5 September, with from right, Jane, Rod, Jamie of the Wyvern, producer Charles Vance, Nikki of the Wyvern. Freddy, Wyvern Theatre manager Ted Doan

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Morris and Webb are two of the hardest working musicians in Memphis today playing over 150 gigs a year either as a duo or with their band. Their acoustic 'back porch' gig at the Dunbar Club last October was a stunning example of genuine blues played in our back yard.

Advance tickets are £5. To book, call 631363 oremail Chris Kerslake at chris.kerslake@ntlworld.com Tickets can be delivered in Swindon area.

Stella sings opera to pop Soprano Stella Rogers from Haydon Wick will be performing a wide range of works at Bath Road Methodist Church on Saturday 6 October, 7.30pm.

Called 'Sweeter than Roses,' after the first song of the evening composed by Purcell, Stella will be accompanied by Susan Morrell, with guest Victor Clements, baritone, and her own students.

The programme covers all styles and tastes from Bellini to Bacharach. Tickets, £5, or £4 concessions, are available on 704141.

Band wanted J Morgangale is getting married on 15 June 2002 at the Hilton Hotel and is looking for a cover band that will appeal to all age groups and tastes. If you can help, e-mail: j morgangale@aol.com

Dance - folk style The Wroughton Folk Dance Club meets on Wednesday evenings at Wroughton Infants School,off Markham Road, 7.45pm to 10pm.

Publicity officer Margy Cassidy describes the evening 'as a motley bunch of people congregating to have fun, dance, keep fit and have a good old chin-wag.'

She adds that folk dancing is part of our heritage which the club is trying to keep alive for future generations, despite all the other distractions of computer games and TV. For details, call club chairman Les on 497856 or the secretary Jean on 430410.

17

Swindon wide Be surprised, explore and get fit Swindon is one of the most surprising places in southern England. A town built on the heavy industry of the railways, has been reinvented as a rapidly growing high-technology and distribution centre, surrounded by large suburban centres.

Now a new guide which combines history and cultural heritage has been launched to help visitors and townspeople to discover the past by walking the streets.

Swindon Surprise is illustrated with a map of Swindon New Town in 1880 and a street layout of today, with numbers locating significant historical features in the town centre, against a brief description.

Discover the streets and back alleyways and imagine the railway

workers walking to and from the GWR works. See how the town has developed around the legacy of the railway works, and contemplate the ruin of the Mechanics Institute.

Swindon Surprise is a New Mechanics Institute Preservation Trust initiative. The trust is trying to raise awareness and the money to regenerate the building as a multiuse community centre. The guide is funded with assistance from the Wiltshire and Swindon NHS Health Care and the work to assemble it was undertaken by Swindon College HNID travel and tourism students Tracey Cloutman and Rebecca Hall.

The guide costs ÂŁ1 from Swindon Information Centre.

P W c ^ ^ Es^^_P

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Volunteers and supporters of the New Mechanics Institute Preservation Trust launch Swindon Surprise outside the Mechanics on 5 September

School blooms with art work Susan Carr is celebrating her first year as artist in residence at Hreod Parkway School.

Susan from Haydon Wick has worked with children to brighten the school buildings with inspirational art pieces during the last twelve months. Earlier in the year she was pictured in The Link showing off three fabric and steel banners to the German Ambassador.

The latest work by the children, unveiled at the end of last term, is a painted window made up of 126 painted perspex panels on the theme of All that Jazz, a jazz music event which took place in June.

"The children really enjoyed working on the pieces displayed in public," said Susan. "They give the buildings a bright, exciting atmosphere which inspires them."

.,

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Saturday 27th October 2001 Southfield School, Shrivenham Road, Highworth, 11am to 4pm Sponsored by

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18

Swindon Wide Scandalous life of Lydiard's Lady Diana exposed

The colourful life of Lady Di Beauclerk who married into the St John family of Lydiard Park, has been immortilised in a new book Improper Pursuits

by Carola Hicks, published by Macmillan.

Born Lady Diana Spencer in 1 735, the eldest child of the third Duke of Marlborough, Lady Diana was expected to follow a traditi onal path through life. Butfinding herself in a desperately unhappy marriage to Viscount Bolingbroke, she overturned convention and left her husband. She maintained a secret relationship with her lover, Topham Beauclerk, hid the birth of an illegitimate child and eventually helped to support herself by painting.

Lady Diana was a highly gifted and accomplished society artist who painted portraits, illustrated plays and books, provided designs for Wedgwood's innovative pottery and decorated rooms with murals.

The little blue dressing room at Lydiard House, once Lady Diana's private closet, now houses a newly expanded display of her painted panels, portraits of herself and children and other small works.

A drawing 'A Performing Bear', recently acquired with the gener-

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ous support of the National Art Collections Fund is exhibited in the State Dressing Room and was possibly influenced by pictures of an upright bear in Lydiard's 1 7th Century painted window by Abraham Van Linge, also in this room.

Copies of Improper Pursuits are available for purchase. Author Carola Hicks will be visiting Lydiard House in November to talk about her book and sign copies.

Lady Diana looks on as Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of Lydiard House shows the new drawing to the Mayor of Swindon coun David Cox and the Mayor of Ocotal, Swindon's twin town in Nicaragua, Edwardo Centega in July

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Maureen Inman of the breakfast club, left, with Teresa

One of the attendants at Lydiard House has received a grant of £1 ,000 from the Swindon Business Women's Breakfast Club to help her develop a career in museum work.

Formerly in financial services, Teresa Squires was selected for the 'Make It Happen' award which will help her pay the first year fees for a post graduate qualification in museum studies. She said the course will give her a new direction, taking her towards becom ing a m us e u m c u r at or.

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19

Swindon Wide Zimbabwe arts contact from Link web site An e-mail from Chris and Vivienne Hamblin, who run Twin Arts Educational Trust, in Zimbabwe in June to The Link magazine's web site www.swindonlink.com , l ed to a meeting with the Mayor of Swindon in early September. Closer cultural contacts between the town and the capital Harare could develop as a result.

The Mayor coun Cox in the parlour with, from left Rosa Matheson, director, Swindon Community Arts Fund, Chris Hamblin, Viv Hamblin, Matt Holland, Daphne Knock, Swindon Council multi-cultural education department, Celia Yeoman of Swindon Artscape Chris contacted us for information about Thamesdown Community Dance Studio where Vivienne Hamblin tutored in 1983. When we discovered that Chris and Viv were visiting family in Britain, we asked the Mayor coun David Cox if he would be willing to meet them and chat about cultural issues. Even though the political situation is tense there, he was keen to discuss the possibility of building relationships with Zimbabwe.

Chris is involved in teaching music in Harare schools and coordinates multi-cultural string orchestras, whilst Viv is very involved in teaching dance. Both organise summer schools and performances and contribute to arts festivals.

We also invited a number of other people from Swindon to learn about arts activity in Harare and discuss how interchange can be fostered.

All were enthusiastic about the possibilities.

Matt Holland, director of the Swindon Festival of Literature, said, "there is an appetite in Swin-

don for links which cross national and cultural boundaries."

Marie McClusky, director of Swindon Dance, said she was keen to see how youth dance exchanges could take place and Rosa Matheson, director of Swindon Community Arts Fund thought there could be international dimensions to Swindon's first folk festival planned for next year.

Coun Cox said he was very encouraged to hear of what's going on in Swindon and Zimbabwe. "It's brilliant that people will be able to make links and develop associati ons at lots of different levels."

Chris was very pleased that he and Viv had been able to make contact with Swindon. "There is a sense of isolation in the arts community in Zimbabwe, so we were very pleased to meet people. It was a positive meeting and we return encouraged by the enthusiastic reception we had in Swindon.

Who knows what could develop?"

Visit Twin Arts via a link at www.swindonlink.com

New look for public arts Swindon Borough Council's Public Arts Unit took on a new appearance with the launch of Swindon Artscape on 3 September.

The unit commissions and organises professional arts throughout the borough - exhibitions, workshops, the city festival and world musicconcerts atthe Old Town Bowl.

For details on Swindon Artscape, call Celia YeoImbongi from Zimbabwe help launch Artscape man on 466517 or go to: www.swindonartscape.co.uk at the Great Western Designer Village

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Venues

Music

The Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 The National Monuments Record Centre, Kemble Drive.

Tel: 414600

Tuesday 2nd, 8pm Waterson: Carthy. Martin Carthy,

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway, Kemble Drive.

Tel: 466655 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios Regent Circus. Tel: 463210 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481 Contact venues to confirm date, time and price

Family Monday 1st, 10.30am & 1.30pm The Wheels on the Bus. Colourful costumes, zany and fantastical adventures, nursery rhyme characters, audience participation. £8. Wyvern

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Norma and Eliza Waterson, all talented, innovative. outstanding performers, together they are something special. £12. Arts Centre Thursday 4th, 8pm Stacey Kent,New York raised, now UK resident, sings jazz in a style which takes classic songs and gently sets them swinging. £12. Arts Centre Thursday 4th, 7.30pm Kentwood Choir in Concert. £6.

Christ Church, Cricklade Street. Tel: 522832/521408

Friday 5th, 8pm Rock Salt and Nails. The Shetland band with the mix of traditional tunes,

contemporary writing and exhilarating instrumental brilliance. £10. Arts Centre Tuesday 9th, 7.30pm Swindon Jazz Society: Great British Pianist presented by Jane Ratcliffe. The Kings Arms Hotel, Wood Street. Membership details from 693093 Friday 12th, 7.30pm Music for Flute and Piano. Rebecca Guy and Yan Lim, winners of the 2001 Gloucs Young Musician of the

Year and the 2001 Caric International Piano competitions, present a varied programme including music by Schube rt and Poulenc. £6. Westonbirt School. Tel:01666 880333 1 Saturday 13th, 8pm Autumn Concert by Swindon Choral Society & Altonaer Singkademie, from Hamburg. 120 singers will perSaturday 20th, 2.30pm The Snow Queen. When a shard of form Mozart Mass in C minor and the Devil's mirror enters a young CPE Bach Magnificat. £9. St Peter's boy's heart, the Snow Queen (above) Church. Westlea. Tickets from The whisks him off to the frozen north. Arts Centre. for info call 533268 This superb musical production re- Saturday 13th, 7.30pm quires audience participation to help A Night At The Musicals direct from bring him back to life. £6/children London's West End and joined by the £4/family £15 Kentwood Choir. £12.50. Wyvern

Theatre Thursday 11th to Sat 13th, 7.30pm The Madness of George III presented by the Old Town Theatre Co.

Sunday 14th, 8pm Broderick This talented contemporary Celtic/folk band with two fiddlers

who alternate on viola and a virtuoso accordionist play rollicking jigs, reels and vocal numbers. £10. Arts Centre

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tion of a king mad for some sanity, and a son mad for power. £5. Arts Centre Thursday 16th Rashomon. Inspired by Kurosawa's

fil m and Akutagawa's original story, this classic Japanese `whodunit' combines music, martial arts, origi-

nal music and East-West theatre. £9.50. Arts Centre.

Thursday 25th, 7.30pm Cardboard Dreams. Talented mimic Larch lives under Waterloo Bridge.

Cara works for the Salvation Army.

Harry Meacher's play provides humour and hope as their relationship develops. £8.50. Arts Centre

Wednesday 17th to Saturday 27th, 7.30pm, also 2.30pm on Saturdays 20th & 27th Rodgers & Hammerstien's Oklahoma! golden anniversary producti on by SALOS. £7- £10. Wyvern Pictured above, stars of Oklahoma!

Tony Asprey & Judith Sharp

21

Or in October Thursday 18th, 8pm Ian McNabb. Acoustic tour for the former front man for The Icicle Works.

Liverpuddlian singer-songwriter. £10. Arts Centre Friday 19th, 8pm An Evening with Carl Palmer. Impeccable showmanship and dazzling speed by drummer Palmer, formerly of Emerson, Lake and Palmer. playing with Shaun Baxter (guitar), David Marks (bass). £12.50. Arts Centre Saturday 20th, 7.30pm Ashton Keynes Philharmonia Concert. A selection of work including Tubby the Tuba, Haydns Toy Symphony and Jurassic Park. Ashton

Dance

Keynes Church

£11. Wyvern

Sunday 21st, 8pm The Bus to El Dorado presented by Talking Trombones and The Swindon Festival of Literature. Five trombonists who are also talented players of South American folk instruments entertain with music, poems, storytelling. £7. Arts Centre

Tuesday 23rd,

Thursday 25th, 7.30pm Joe Loss Orchestra and Singing Stars presented by Todd Miller, in aid of the Bristol Children's Hospital. £12. Upper Room, above The Savoy, Regent Street. Tickets from John Holmes Music, Faringdon Road Friday 26th, 8pm The Dylan Project with Steve Gibbons, Dave Pegg, PJ Wright and Simon Nichol. £12.50. Arts Centre Saturday 27th, 7.30pm Swindon Recital Series. Patricia Rozario (soprano) with Paul Turner (piano). Programme includes Schumann, Rachmanivov and Taverner. £8. Arts Centre Tuesday 30th, 8pm An Englishman, an Irishman and a Scotsman. Three of Britain's finest songwriters: Michael Weston King, Andy White, Rob Noakes. come together to play classic pop, folk and country. £9. Arts Centre

Comedy Sunday 7th, 8pm Jim Davidson with special guest Roger Kitter. £15. Wyvern Friday 12th Lo Reid invites volunteers on stage and hypnotises them in front of the audience. Wyvern Saturday 20th, 8pm B.A.D. The Big and Daft Christmas Show. Ian Boldsworth. Rob Rouse and Jon Williams star in this festive tale of an evil Father Christmas who forces our heroes to work in his toy factory. £7.

Arts Centre

Tour Saturday 20th, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monument Record Centre. An introduction to the work of the NMRC. Free

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Monday 8th, 7.45pm ready... steady... Dance. Wayne Sleep and Melanie Stace celebrate classic Broadway and West End showstoppers. £16.50. Wyvern Tuesday 9th, 7.30pm Swan Lake presented by Vienna Festival Ballet. £17.50. Wyvern Thursday 11th, 7.30pm Premier presented by russell maliphant dance company - a taking risks festival performance. Award winning choreographer Russell Maliphant explores the magical relationship between light and music.

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Lectures All the lectures are free and are held at the University of Bath in Swindon, Main Hall, Oak field Campus Wednesday 10th, 5.30pm - 6.30pm Dancing at the Edge. Marie McClusky, Director of Swindon National Dance Agency, will discuss the risks involved in presenting and performing contemporary dance.

Wednesday 17th, 5.30pm - 6.30pm Swindon's Future - Crystal Ball or Science. Wendy Shillam explains some of the aims and techniques of forward planning.

Wednesday 24th, 5.30pm - 6.30pm Life Through Literature - reading, writing and festival frolic by Matt Holland. founderofthe Swindon Festival of Literature .

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Classes for all - day and evening Special `Paint a ceramic Christmas tree' evening, Friday 16th November 2001. Please book early Painting evenings for you, your friends, clubs and societies An extensive range of greenware and bilk Paints, glazes, brushes & all ceramic accessories * Free parking Call in person, or by phone, for further details. Chris and Tina, Unit 40A Okus Trading Estate (near PMH). Tel: 01793 431837

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Swindon Arts Children/family workshops & events Film Festival Saturday 13th, 2pm - 4pm Woodland Animals. Create your own animals like the ones you see in the woodlands of Lydiard Park or the painted window of Lydiard House.

Suit 5 - 11 years. £2. Lydiard Stable Block, book on 770401 Sunday 21st, 10.30am - 1.30pm Winter Cares. Find out how to help birds, hedgehogs and other creatures through the winter months.

Meet Lydiard Gateway Centre, tel: 771419 for details Saturday 27 October to Sunday 4 November Scary Spiders. Spiders spiders everywhere - can you spy them? £1 plus admission charge (50p at Swindon Museum). Lydiard House and Swindon Museum & Art Gallery.

Tuesday 30th, 2pm - 4pm Spooky Costumes. Design your own Halloween costumes. Suit 5 11 year olds. £2. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. book on 466556 Wednesday 31st, 4.30pm - 7pm Halloween Party. Family drop-in event. Games, activities, spooky fun, fancy dress is a must. Free.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Open days Saturday 6th, 1lam - 3pm St Mary's, The Mall, Old Town is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Refreshments, exhibition.

Sunday 14th, 10.30am to 3.30pm TWIGS, Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon has polytunnels, demonstration gardens, ornamental trees, an allotment site and an area dedicated to wildflowers, butterflies Manor and other wild creatures.

Garden Centre, Cheney Manor

Swindon Film Society All films are shown at the Arts Centre; tickets are not sold in advance; Film Society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre; join the society when purchasing tickets.

Wednesday 17th, 7.45pm Harry He's Here to Help (18) Dark psychological thriller in which a contented married man bumps into an old school friend who is just too helpful to be true.

Wednesday 24th, 7.45pm Butterfly's Tongue (18) Touching and humane rites of passage story of a boy and his liberating teacher, set in Spain just prior to the Civil war.

Wednesday 31st, 7.45pm In the Mood for Love (PG) Lyrical love story of two neighbours, both betrayed by their spouses, who reluctantly develop a friendship.

Wednesday 3rd, 8pm Kolya (12) Acclaimed for its poignant story and outstanding cast, Kolya shines with heartwarming comedy. £2.50. The Vic, Victoria Road Thursday 4th, 7.30pm The Titfield Thunderbolt (12) Probably one of the best Ealing Comedies. A talk by Michael Rumsey, an expert on the railway aspects of the fil m, will precede the screening. £3.50.

Railway Village Community Hall Friday 5th, 2pm Les Quarles Cents Coups (PG) Filmed in Paris in 1959 entirely from a child's perspective, it tells the story of 12 year old Antoine, who undergoes a hard knock rites of passage from unloving family background to truancy, streetlife and reform school, before finding self awareness and escape of sorts. £3.50 /£2.50 conc.

University of Bath, Marlowe Avenue Friday 5th, 8pm Uneasy Riders (15) Originally intended for French television, this film won such acclaim at Cannes it is now on general release.

Set in a home for the disabled, Rene is the despair of his carers. Frustrated and enraged at life in a wheelchair, he persuades his nurse Julie to procure for him the services of a hooker. His exploits soon plunge the whole community into chaos. £3.50/ £2.50 conc. University of Bath, Marlowe Avenue Saturday 6th, 2pm Mildred Pierce (PG) Classic melodrama which won Joan Crawford an Oscar, now re-released in a print £3.50 / £2.50 conc. Arts Centre Saturday 6th, 6pm Together (15) Feelgood film set in a 1970s Stockholm commune where free love reigns supreme - to the bewilderment of children and consternation of adults. £3.50/f2.50 conc. Arts Centre Saturday 6th, 8.45pm Merci pour le chocolat (PG) Isabel Huppert stars as the wife in Claude Chabrol's suspenseful drama of acouple who have remarried, when a young woman arrives. £3.50/£2.50 conc. Arts Centre.

Tickets for the Arts Centre can be bought at the Arts Centre, all other tickets can be purchased through the Wyvern Theatre Box Office on 52448.

(Credit card booking fee applies).

The Festival is organised in conjunction with the Swindon Film Society (contact 775807) and World Cinema at The Vic (contact: Jamie Robertson, 814354).

For further details and feedback contact: Swindon Arts Festivals, tel.: 463197. e:maiI swindonarts.org.uk

23

n J r Q^thber Exhibitions TWIGS, Manor Garden Centre 14 October An Expression of Nature in Art The culmination of self expression workshops at TWIGS. Members and local artists will exhibit their work using a range of media.

Wyvern Theatre 2 to 27 October The Golden Jubilee of the Musical Theatre Imagery Swindon Amateur Light Operatic Society present this exhibition of photography and programme designs celebrating 50 years of performances - a unique account of the stories and people behind the posters.

Wyvern Theatre 5 October to 5 November As You See It

by Russell GrovesA collection of bold colourful paintings from this Swindon-based artist.

The Arts Centre 3 to 27 October The Big Draw - Dance Drawings Pictures produced by local school pupils at a drawing and dance workshop.

Lydiard Park Visitor Centre The Lost Estate Display of photographs capturing the joys and trials of life on the Lydiard Park Estate in the 1 950s.

Lydiard House The Grandison Book A rare beautifully bound 17th Century manuscript with genealogical tables based on those displayed on the triptych in St Mary's Church together with vivid illustrations. Normal admission charge to House The Gallery, National Monuments Record Centre to 7 October Works of Worship The works of medieval craftsmen the stonemasons, wood carvers and stained glass makers, amongst others- who have built, crafted and decorated parish churches, cathedrals and monasteries.

Fundraising Saturday 20th, 10am - 11.30am Autumn Bazaar in aid of Winston's Wish, the charity for bereaved children and young people. Westonbirt School, Tetbury. Tel: 01666880333 Sunday 30th (& every last Sunday in the month) Boot Sale. Cars £5, vans £7, no need to book. Prospect Hospice, Wroughton

Swindon Society Wednesday 10th, 7.30pm A Walk through Wroughton - talk & slides, by Danny Hicks, £1. Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street

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21st Birthday Lottery Draw Top prize £2,100. Buy your tickets at a Prospect shop by 5 October The Livingwell Experience Sunday 7 October, 10am to 5pm Croft Leisure Centre, Old Town A relaxing and stimulating day to learn more about healthy li ving including exercise, diet and lifestyle.

Exhibitions, demonstrations, performances & complimentary therapy taster sessions.

Farmers market with organic and environmentally friendly products from local producers Circus Starr Wednesday 17 October 4.45pm & 7pm, Lydiard Park The circus with a purpose in aid of Prospect Clowns, acrobats, highwire -all human, all fun Adults £8; children & OAPs £6 Tickets from 01946 592859 Tosca Christ Church, Old Town Friday 16 November Tickets from 535658 Details of other fundraising events from 815142 or go to www.prospect-hospice.org.uk

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Eleven primary schools took part in 'Drawing Together,' a 15 minute project on 29 June in the Swindon Arts 'Think Art' Festival.

The attempt to get into the Guinness Book of Records for the largest number of pictures achieved 2,340 entries. Pupils, teachers, heads and admin. staff all sat down to draw 'My Best Friend.'

Some of the pictures will be displayed around Swindon at the end of September and during October.

Temporary galleries have been set up at the Civic Offices. Wat Tyler House. Swindon Tourist Information Centre, the Sun Alli ance shop in Bridge Street and West Swindon Library.

Rosa Matheson, director of Swindon Arts Festivals said, "there was a fantastic response from schools. Drawing a

Youngsters at Toothill School drawing their best friend picture of a friend really had an impact and created a sense of togetherness. All the pictures have a lot of heart in them and some are absolutely magical."

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The Maharajah in Purton opened nearly six years ago and has built a strong reputation amongst diners with a discerning palate, and an appreciation of quality service.

Known as 'Purton's hidden treasure', The Maharajah was the first Indian restaurant to be established there and has become the out of town tandoori of choice for many Link readers according to proprietor Khalique Ali. "Apart from word of mouth which is our best recommendation, The Link is our only consistent advertising medium; many of our customers live in West and North Swindon.

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Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50.000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 December 2001 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments of £206.25. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £134,558 calculated to include valuation lee £195. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan £150,000. The rate applies to loans up to and including 97% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable until 30/4/03, after which the than current variable base mortgage rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the form of a Risk Charge. Rates correct at time of going to press.

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26

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Ukraine dental support delayed until 2002 A project to take much needed assistance to dentists in the Ukraine, featured on the front page of the February Link, has had to be put off until next summer.

Bureaucracy and the need for page, before setting off to deliver Brendon said they "The bureaucracy is a extra funding prevented progress supplies and provide training in were able to refine their problem, but Natasha for Freshbrook dentist Brendon modern techniques to dentists in plans for next year's aid knows how to cope Ball, his Ukrainian wife Natasha, Cherkassy. Brendon met Natasha trip while on holiday to with the procedures. and colleague Richard Swift. They and they were married in Septem- Ukraine in August. We I The unit is being refurhadplannedtotowaformerhealth ber last year. met Drs Kovalenko and ` bished at Glenpack in y authnrit

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The Link Magazine - October 2001

Family reunited @ Swindon Link Two long lost cousins have been reunited thanks to the Link magazine's website www.swindonlink.com Thomas Moynihan from Dublin are very excited about it, as nordecided to track down his cousin mally people are too busy with life Maureen following a family be- to look for their roots." reavement earlier this year when The complex web goes on to span the conversation came around to a third continent as Maureen's father has one surviving brother, long lost relatives.

"I had only ever met her once Christopher Moynihan, who now before at her wedding in Swindon lives in Perth, Australia. Thomas in 1962," said Thomas by e-mail. contacted him by e-mail and was "I looked through all the Swindon able to tell him about his niece in web sites. The only one that looked Swindon. Soon afterwards as if it would work was Maureen received another call www.swindonlink.com and sent from afar. "It was amazing to talk a message to the PeopleLink sec- to Christopher; I'm still reeling." tion of the site."

In an amazing example of how the internet can act both locally and globally, his message was read

by Muriel Lobban in Ottowa who was born and bred in Swindon before emigrating to Canada. She often looks at the site to keep in touch with the town and thought the person Thomas was looking for was her niece Maureen Caton, councillor for Moredon and former Mayor of Swindon. Muriel emailed Maureen's daughters saying, 'I think this is your mother.'

"I really couldn't believe it," said Maureen. "But my daughter 'phoned the number then called me over to the phone to talk to Thomas." Since then they have spoken several times on the phone.

"I never considered myself lost.

My father Patrick Moynihan died during the war when I was six months old, so I only knew one half of the family. My daughters

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Link down under The Lbik has also been exchanging e-mails with Rhonda Merritt, a university student from Queensland, who has been trying to find out more about her great-grandmother's family, who ran the Mills Brothers furniture shop in Bridge Street in the 1920s.

Happily we have united her with a descendent of the family.

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Can you help?

From David Braybrooks david.braybrooks@gpwa.com.au Does anyone know the whereabouts of Sandra Mary Pounder (nee Buckland) from the 1960's who lived at West Lavington and later Hook, Nr Swindon? David is planning a trip to England in October and would like to catch up.

From Stephen Russell stephen.russell@stibo.com Litten Tree, 15 September: girl with black hair, and black dress who went to D&D. I missed you in there and would like contact. I had a cream dragon shirt, black hair and glasses!

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28

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Success is no illusion for magic family Five years ago Phil and Heather Walker appeared on the Link front page in the picture below left under the quality' after Heather decided to join Phil in his developing magic and illusion business.

Eighteen months earlier, in a boost to launch burning rope March 1995, Phil, soon to be re- his alter ego Dr sixty feet in the dundant from the RAF and look- Aculard Hemair. It takes him ing for a civilian career, appeared lock. The family 30 seconds but on our front page dressed as a had just arrived in involves painvampire appealing for a stage as- Freshbrook from fully dislocating sistant.JayneCandlinfromGrange RAF service in his shoulder, so Park responded and bookings start Germany, where he keeps this part to roll in, until she became preg- Phil had put on F of the business nant and Heather stepped in. comedy hypno. quiet.

But we go back to our front page tism and table p "It's amazing in 1993, when we featured Nadia magic shows at '"^ how things have Foster from Freshbrook, alias Anna NATO bases for a grownfromliterKazan, the youngest member of few years, and +" ally an illusion," the Magic Circle, which gave Phil Nadia was able to said Phil. The in+ '' formation we Phil and Heather on the October 1996 provide tips and contacts within 2 sent out in the British entertain- Hemlocks newest act featuring early days was so ment circles.

Knights in armour fighting with good that when Dr Aculard has razor sharp swords and damsels in club promoters retired, though distress called us we told vampires have a them that we had tendency to return for a taste, but bookings for months ahead and Hemlock Productions has grown they needed to send us a deposit. into a monster entertainment busi- We had twenty bookings before ness based in West Swindon. Phil we could buy any equipment. Now and Heather can put on cabaret, we get two or more gigs for every hypnosis and magic shows, as well one we do and use equipment costas a disco, at large corporate events ing thousands, with full lighting or turn up at a children's party as a and the works." couple of clowns.

Hemlock Productions now emAnd if paid enough, Phil is will- ploys twelve part-time assistants ing to escape from a straight jacket, and a whole range of other perdangling upside down from a formers and entertainers depend-

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ing on the type of booking. "Nowadays we have a team of organisers so that we can just turn up and put on the show," said Phil. "Jayne has moved away now, but who knows what would have happened without the original Link article. Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would be where we are now."

Hemlock also has a young protege in the making. Greendown student Daniel Walker, already experienced in TV commercials, is keen to join in when he is ready.

To book company and hotel events or a childrens party, call Hemlock Productions on 881430.

Phil and Heather as children's entertainers Absolutely Amazing Magic

The Link Magazine • October 2001

29

Join Norman in spirit to celebrate second birthday Spirit of Swindon rower Norman Butler from Westlea has done much of his physical training at the Link Active Lifestyle Centre, and to celebrate its second anniversary, staff are challenging customers to row as far as he can in two days, over the weekend of 13 and 14 October.

Norman, who will have been at sea for six days by that date, reckons he would row about 80 miles (128,000 metres) in two days and Link ALC will be adding up the totals of all those who take part.

There will be a piece of birthday cake on offer to every visitor to the ALC over the weekend and a free raffle for prizes including a month's crosstraining and reiki session or Indian head massage by Lorraine Mills.

Lorraine will be on hand to talk to customers about her therapies on Saturday 13 October, as will beautician Jenna Arrowsmith and sports therapist Kate Cady.

ALC staff will be on duty during the opening hours of 9.30am to 5pm over the weekend to offer free fitness tests, nutrition tests and show people how to use the great new training aid the Swiss ball.

Sign up at the Link ALC now and benefit from all the weekend fun, or make a point of visiting to meet the staff and look at the facilities.

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Assisting Norman at the Link ALC, Wendy Humphreys, left and Caroline Painter

Twelve year old in top ten per cent A young swimmer from Shaw, who nearly gave up the sport earlier this year, struck gold in early August. huge and I think Grant had doubts at Swindon Tigershark Grant Turner, the beginning of the year. He's a big 12, swam in eight events at the national lad and not the best of trainers, but like .; finals in Sheffield and came fourth in many top swimmers he trains to corntwo races, fifth in another, and took first pete. He has given himself a tremenplace in the 50 metre freestyle - the first dons platform to develop his talents." gold for a Swindon junior in 19 years.

Bradon Forest student Grant, said Tigersharks senior coach Phil Millard lie was surprised by his performance. said Grant's achievements were impres"I didn't think I was going to do so sive. "To qualify in eight events and to well; Iwas justhappy tohave qualified deliver seven personal best times is refor the nationals. I was helped by remarkable. To do it on his first visit to the ally good coaching." *nationals showed a very mature tern- .

The Tigersharks train swimmers at perament. all levels. For details, call Phil Millard "The demands on young swimmers on 532407. to strive to become world beaters is

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Bookings are now being taken for Christmas 2001 a traditional 3 course menu is provided giving the main course choices from turkey, lamb or vegetarian Friday 14th, Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd December

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Wednesday 19th December with Amber Dextrous (drag artist)

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30

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Breakthrough walkers take lunch with HRH

Reiki Healing

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Two women from Swindon were amongst fifty who were invited to meet Prince Charles on Monday 3 September at his country residence Highgrove House.

Eunice Salmon from Nine Elms others as they walked up the drive- into a secret garden. Its relatively and Ros Evans from Old Town way at Highgrove; Prince Charles small for a stately home, but every who are involved with the Swin- commented later that from a dis- inch seems to be perfect, we gasped don branch of Breakthrough Can- tance he thought a party of Bud- at every turn. There are such strong cer and have done the Moonwalk dhist monks was about to arrive. spiritual influences and the new marathon through London were "It was a surreal day," said Islamic garden is wonderful. exclusively pictured in the Sep- Eunice, who had flown back from "It was striking how informal tember Link getting ready to strip a family holiday in Spain in the Highgrove is. Even being close to off at Westonbirt Arboretum be- early hours of 3 September so as the main road, many of the doors fore striding the two miles to not to miss the day. "Highgrove and windows were wide open and Highgrove. and its gardens are just incredible there was no obvious security.

Wearing bras decorated with and it was such a privilege to be "It's hard to believe that it hapstuffed organic vegetables, Eunice asked to attend the reception. pened at all." and Ros broke out in song with the

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Striding in Royal company, Prince Charles holds a leek presented by Ros Evans, second from left, with Eunice Salmon, left, and Moonwalk organiser Nina Baru

"We were shown to the Orchard Room which opens out into a large paved space. Before meeting us in small groups, still wearing our bras, the Prince said we had made his day for dressing as we did and thanked the thousands of women who have done the Moonwalk over the last few years. Over £1 million was raised in May and he received two cheques on behalf of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Bristol Cancer Help Centre."

Prince Charles is President of the first and patron of the second.

Eunice said she was almost speechless when he met the women in small groups. "I could not believe I was there. It was quite bizarre, Prince Charles in a crisp suit, us in trainers and bras decorated with assorted fruit and vegetables. Res gave him one of her stuffed leeks which were made by a Swindon woman who is quite ill with breast cancer. He carried it round all the groups before asking 'who does this belong to?'

"In the informal setting the Prince is so friendly, warm and natural, totally unlike he is portrayed in the media."

After the Prince had departed, the women enjoyed a delicious lunch and to their surprise were invited to look around the garden.

"We didn't expect a guided tour," said Eunice. "It's just like going

Moonwalk 2002 Swindon has contributed the largest group to the Moonwalk in the last two years. In May two hundred women and a few blokes from Swindon raised about £50,000 in sponsorship on the Moonwalk. In 2000, one hundred and five raised £30,000.

For safety reasons organisers will be restricting entry numbers next May, so it will be important to apply early.

Breakthrough Breakfasts Unlike the last two years, when Eunice has coordinated breakfast fundraising events during breast cancer awareness month, she is appealing for people to organise their own smaller breakfasts in their home, school or workplace during October. Eunice has organiser packs available.

Peruvian Andes stroll Eunice is taking part in a sponsored hike along the Inca trail in Peru for Breakthrough next June and has a big sponsorship target to meet. Call her if you can help.

For details on the above, call Eunice on 871606.

All pink at Asda

The West Swindon Asda has been selling a range of pink items for Breast Cancer Care from 17 to 30 September. There is still time to take part and buy raffle tickets.

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Wheelchair basketball club on a roll Disabled people attracted by the buzz of a fast team game will enjoy the wheelchair basketball club at the Haydon Centre.

It's an exciting and fast game gives everyone the chance to comthat can be played by people with pete. It's enjoyable and a great opdisabilities and able-bodied peo- portunity to meet new friends too."

The club meets between 11.30am ple alike. Swindon Council's lifestyle team has relaunched the and 12.30pm on Saturdays at the wheelchair basketball club and is Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue inviting anyone interested in play- and the cost is £2.50 per session. ing to come along to the centre to Anyone who would like to help with the session is also welcome. see the action for themselves.

New members are always Sports development officer Gladys Barr said, "wheelchairbas- wanted. For details, call Gladys on ketball helps develop fitness, co- 511033 or team coordinator Stuart ordination and teamwork, and Elliott on 821837.

Slamtastic for kids

Summer game moves indoors Were you inspired by the action of Tim and Greg at Wimbledon this year and do you want to improve your match play, asks Gail Light at the Delta Tennis Centre.

At Delta there is no need for a partner or equipment at our pay as you play recreation sessions, and don't worry about the weather, all sessions are held indoors. For fun, social tennis the Delta is the place to be.

Mixed sessions Monday 9am - 11am Friday 1pm - 3pm Mens session Tuesday fpm - 3pm

Ladies sessions Tuesday 9am - 11am Thursday 9am -11am (creche available)

Evergreen - over 55s Wednesday 9am - 11am Friday 9am - 11am The sessions cost £3.90 or £1.40 with a Gold Card, and we offer a reduced price drink as well.

All sessions are organised by Norene Richardson, below, who has been at the Delta since it was opened by Princess Diana in April 1989. Her expertise and advice is always at hand.

Catch the basketball bug at a junior fun day at the Link Centre on 27 October.

The fun for 7 to 11 year olds takes place between 10am and 12 noon and fpm and 3pm for 12 to 16 year olds. The sessions are open to all abilities, but is aimed mainly at youngsters who want to get started.

Players from Swindon Sonics team will be on hand to make a slamtastic day of coaching, skills sessions and competitions for just £2.

Turn up and play.

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Youngsters keen on basketball have their very own club to join, the Swindon Sonics School of Basketball. Sessions for minis, under 12s, 14s and 16s, girls and boys meet at the Hayden and Link Centres and the Dorcan Recreation Complex. For details of times and prices, call Graham Chambers on 512828.

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASK

Hockey for kids Swindon Hockey Club runs practise sessions for juniors on Saturday mornings on the Greendown School astroturf.

All kids aged 7 to 13 years are welcome to come along between 9am and 10.30am. The cost is £1, but the first session is free.

For details, call Cheryl Gore on 495298.

Ready to play at Greendown

31

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32

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Youth to put skills into the community

Girls join in with the lads

Young people now have the chance to contribute to the good of their community with the launch of West Swindon Millennium Volunteers on 7 September.

Aimed at 16 to 25 year olds, the unteering develops life skills that project funded by the Department could appear on a CV alongside for Education and Skills and based school or college qualifications. at Freshbrook community centre, This is a chance for people to do will involve volunteers in a wide things in their own community, range of activities such as sports work with people they know from coaching, helping at clubs for eld- their neighbourhood and get superly people, youth club discos and port. It's going to be fun as well." environmental projects.

Tracey will be at Freshbrook Project organiser Tracey Community Centre on most McKeddie is keen to meet any Wednesdays 6pm to 8pm to meet young people interested in offer- people who want to find out more. ing their time and energies. "Vol- Or call her on 07876 451140.

Three girls have decided its more fun learning with the lads and have been accepted into 1st Westlea Scouts, the first to join in the North Wiltshire district.

Tracey, centre, with Terry Isles of the Freshbrook Village Group and volunteer Claire Smyth

Zinnia and Amanda get ready for camp with members of Westlea Scouts

Amanda Robinson, Zinnia Haimes and Katie Weatherspoon joined last January and have got stuck in straight away with a youth hostelling weekend in February, camp craft activities including gutting and skinning a rabbit, and a summer camp at the end of July.

"It's great fun," said Amanda.

"My brother is in the Scouts and he was always going away and having fun; so me and Zinnia asked if we could join. It's much better than staying in and watching TV. The boys are helpful and show us what to do."

Zinnia said she had always been a tomboy and looks forward to Scout evenings. "We do a lot of

interesting activities and get involved with all the games, but it was scary to be inducted by torch light in a haunted youth hostel."

Scout leader Shaun Dunham said that although the Scout Association had accept girls for five years, the group had not advertised for them as there were Guide groups in the area. "The girls approached us and we did not want to disappoint them. They've become excellent scouters.

1st Westlea Scouts meet on Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm at the Upper Shaw Farm Centre, Ridge Green. There is a waiting list, but to join, call Darren Cooper on 695447 or Shaun Dunham on 874867.

Big A moves into a mobile

THE _/BIGU© e Big Adventure Club

After School Child Care School Holiday Child Care Providing after school care for the following West Swindon Schools: Tregoze Primary, Brook Field Primary,

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Telephone: 875992

Children who attend the Big A after school club at Oliver Tomkins junior school now have a permanent base for their activties in an unused mobile classroom.

Acting headteacher Elizabeth Wood said the club is an excellent resource for working parents and the school governors were keen to improve facilities for them. "The school had a mobile classroom full of teaching resources which were underused because it meant finding the key and crossing the playground. At the same time the Big A could not have big equipment out, because they were using a classroom in the main building, and had to put everything away each evening. It seemed a good idea to let them have a permanent place to meet."

Big Adventure manager Tracey Bailey said the twenty children who attend the club love •' ""Y T having a home to meet • '^" in "They are very set /i , tled knowing that all the play materials and 4 a" N equipment is in a single '' 4 place. The building is "" right next to the playground so they can go in and out as they

please. " We're really thankful to the school for letting us use the mobile."

Big A children with Mrs Wood, rear left, supervisor Melanie Robson, Tracey Bailey, right

—

^r

The Link Magazine • October 2001

33

New name for child care club An after school club which started as a business has been converted to a community run club.

Kidzone, which pro • 1, ;. vided breakfast and after school care for children attending Shaw Ridge School, closed down in _ mid-September and was j' immediately relaunched as a registered charity: the Shaw Ridge Community Kids Club. It continues to meet at Upper Shaw Farm social hall.

Hayley Larkin, chair of the parent management committee, said everybody was de- everybody involved." lighted that care for children of The Shaw Ridge Community working parents was continuing. Kids Club is open to children from "We could not behappier. Wewere all primary schools and caters for very pleased that our supervisor up to sixteen daily. Holiday care is Paula Watts and Simon Roberts also available. For details on places, have continued running the club call Paula on 348517.

Parents open afternoon which means nothing has changed for the children.

Meet Paula and Simon "There is a lot of enthusiasm Friday 5 October, and dedication to the club from 3.30pm to 6.30pm

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The Shaw Chiropractic Clinic at Shaw Village Centre has expanded its services with the arrival of new practitioner Simon Bodley.

Simon qualified with a master's diverse range of techniques along degree in chiropractics two years with many up to date ideas. "I am ago and brings knowledge of a very much looking forward to helping Sandra Davies with her clinic," said Simon, belozo.

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Introducing Simon Bodley to the

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For further details contact: SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. SIMON BODLEY BSc. D.C. Tel: (01793) 887801

Fax: (01793) 882298 Opening times Mon. Tues, Fri: 7.30am - 8.30pm Wed: 8.30am - 8pm Thurs: 8.30am - 7.30pm Sat: 8.30am - 1pm Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors

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The practice was established in 1998 when Sandra identified a need for a chiropractor in West Swindon and now has over 1,500 patients.

"Much of the growth has come as a result of advertisements in The Link and now word of mouth," said Sandra. "The practice regularly also receives referrals from local GPs, and has set up a contract with one practice. Simon's arrival will certainly make the clinic more accessible; we will be opening longer hours and on Saturday mornings."

It's important to look after your back and have it checked regularly said Sandra. For details of treatments available call 887801.

6 x 3 aviary panel £ 16.00 6 x 3 door panel £22.00

RABBIT & SMALL ANIMAL HUTCHES TRADITIONAL HUTCHES 36 £39.00 48" £48.00 DOUBLE DECKERS 36" £65.00 48" £85.00 Wide range of small animal pens NEW Rabbit Room now open

Manor Garden ntre, Cheney Manor, Swindon Tel: 01793 512400 Fax: 01793 512444 (

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14 PATIO DISPLAYS WITH STOCK FROM

34

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Call to put gardens on show

HARVEY

LANDSCAPING CENTRE

There are some wonderful gardens in West and North Swindon, full of interest, effort and passion for growing things. What about showing off your work?

The Link is interested in sponsor- themselves. We would provide the ing and promoting a meeting of publicity for the 'committee' and readers interested in organising a promote the chosen dates and proday or weekend next summer duce a map of open gardens.

If this is an idea worth pursuing, when people open their gardens to the public in aid of a chosen char- contact Roger Ogle at The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, ity.

This would have to be an initia- Swindon SN5 7BD or e-mail tive organised by the gardeners linkmagazine@compuserve.com

Petunia delight

We have recently opened a showroom in West Swindon.

Our displays feature impressive water, paving and decorative garden arrangements.

Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to answer questions, offer free quotes and inform you of our installation service.

Harold Newson's tiny back garden, and also the area by his front door in Risingham Mead, Westlea, was almost overgrown with petunias in August.

The eighty three year old moved from Purton a few year ago, where he had a big garden which was becoming too much to manage.

Now Harold keeps his green fingers busy throughout the winter growing plants from seeds and potting them up to produce a summer long delightful display of colour.

Adve rt ising feature

'Fast Forward' for New College into West Swindon ra

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Business is booming for New College and with a start on its new £8m building project due in the next 6 months, the college has decided that the best strategy for its Professional Development Unit is to move offsite to new, larger and more accessible premises.

Like many businesses in the area, have also renamed the unit `Fast Forthe unit has enjoyed an extremely sue- ward' and a new corporate livery has cessful five years but now needs more been designed." than one training room to cater for All of the unit's open access courses staff in need of professional develop- will be delivered at the new centre, ment and training in Swindon and including the Certificate and Diploma Wiltshire. in Management, CIPD courses and a On I October, a new centre opens at new range of IT programmes. The Shaw Village Centre, in the heart of premises also offer comfortable surboth business and residential commu- roundings for the wide range of tainities. Business Se rv ices Manager lored training courses delivered for Emma Cross described the move as a business. Meeting or training rooms relaunch forthe unit. "Individuals and will also be available for hire. companies unde rt aking training of any Details of courses for business peonature require a dynamic and profes- pie wishing to develop their career sional but comfortable environment, and tailored training for business can and we aim to provide just that. In be obtained from Emma Crosson 0800 order to underline this change, we 980 4911.

Paint brushes flying as the team get the unit ready, from left, Sally Tait, work based training manager; Berni Allen, Marketing & Management programme assistant; Emma Cross, centre »tanager ; Sandra Williams, professional development coordinator; Ali Maggs, work based t r aining assistant

The Link Magazine • October 2001

What are conservation groups doing in the Swindon area to protect the environment?

35

Open day at TWIGS

Sunday 14 October, 10.30am to 3.30pm The 21st Century Swindon Forum is a voluntary network that brings TWIGS, Therapeutic Work in Gar- tre, Cheney Manor, there are together organisations and individuals who work for an improved dening in Swindon, is a project set polytunnels for indoor production, quality of life for this and future generations without exploiting up to help people recover from demonstration gardens, a collection of ornamental trees and an others, destroying and polluting the environment or wasting re- mental health problems. sources.

Situated at Manor Garden Cen- allotment site. Other activites include an arts and crafts workshop.

Member groups will be presentTwigs works closely with the ing their work at the forum's Ann g Igo Big boys Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help nual General Meeting on Tuesday g strong y help p Jelly y Tots 2 October, 6.30pm at Broadgreen Patio materials donated by builders merchant Jewson has been put to create and maintain the Haven, an Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon good use by Shaw playgroup Jellytots outside their building at Brook area dedicated to wildflowers, butterflies and other wild creatures Anybody interested in conser- Field School. vation and the environment is we!- Children were pictured in the August Link watching slabs and sand on the site.

An exhibition of work produced, come to attend. For details, call' being unloaded. During the holidays three dads, Nigel Lynn, Gary Trish Cole on 722473 or e mail: Kinsey and Cliff John, came to the playgroup's aid and gave up a day using a range of media, at self expression workshops will be on distrishcole@bydemiU12.freeserve.co.uk to create a great new play area for the group.

But following the good news was the bad. On Sunday 9 September play on the open day. vandals destroyed the shed used to store outdoor play equipment.

Playgroup supervisor Debbie Dean said, "we are storing everything in our second toilet which is a problem with so many young children."

ATTWOOD'S Jellytots are appealing for help to provide a strong shed or a steel Creative Gardens for Landscaping container. Call playgroup chairperson Julia Marchant on 873724 if you Tel: 01793 can assist.

• Patios Jellytots with supervisors Jan Woodward, Chris Hunt, Debbie Dean 702076 • Paving Get your N • Walls D ^ garden fit • Decking O C • Fencing • Turfing For all landscaping needs: • Water features patios,ponds, block paving, • Children's play areas fencing, clearance, free • Low maintenance gardens 3stimates, competitive rates,

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36

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Gathering info on the west

Coffee and chat

University geography student Rachel Wood from Grange Park is researching whether there is a community in West Swindon. She has appealed for readers to get in touch in the last two editions of The Link and outlines some of her early findings. or different shifts to neighbours, Having spoken to groups covermaking it difficult to interact. ing a wide range of interests and ages, several issues reoccur: Rachel has now returned to Cambridge, but if you have any views 1. The definition of 'community' on the West Swindon community, varies. Some people link this to the contact The Link, address on page local area, to others it is having 4. anything in common, not necessarily physical location.

People still seem to feel they have some kind of community spirit, Police meet people but this may be linked to a place of The West Swindon community work or a club or social group. In beat officers have started a other words, community spirit monthly surgery at the West Rachel interviewing Mark Thornett exists but in different locations.

Swindon District Centre on the The scale has also changed as and Lindsey Shaw first Friday of the month, 6pmtechnology and communications in breaking down community - 8pm. now allow new communities to cars, TVs, texting, e-mail - mean PCs Phil Connor and Rob span the globe. we either do not need contact with Mortimer and WPC Pat Jones are 2.A feeling of vulnerability linked real people, or our paths simply available, subject to their duty rotas, in a mobile police station to to lack of community and vice don't cross. versa. This spans all age groups.

4. The importance of changes in discuss any issue of community 3. The role of 'modern' inventions work patterns, with longer shifts safety and concerns about criminal activity.

Turn up with any queries and needs for assistance. The next sessions is on 5 October.

Every Tuesday,10am to 11.30am Toothill Community Centoe A chance to meet other people, chat about the area and talk to community development worker Pam Pixton about issues of concern.

A 2 Z Home Improvements All your needs in one number

New support worker at Focus

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PARKING CENTRAL SWINDON Annual long stay parking only

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Sally Priddy has taken over as self help support worker at Focus On Carers and Self Help and is available to give advice and support on setting up and developing new groups. She can help with funding, publicity, training or whatever a group needs.

I SELF DRIVE HIRE 1/°`^Z°`4e R

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Cars • Vans • Luton Tail-Lifts

Contact Alison Kearney Tel: 01793 - 616333

Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

Toothill Luncheon Club meets on Wednesdays, 12noon at Toothill Community Centre where a hot meal is prepared and served by volunteers to around 45 pensioners.

Both the present cook and organiser are giving up their posts in March 2002 and replacements are urgently required.

Anyone interested in these roles should call the club secretary, Kit Pooley on 611216 or Maggie Stedman on 853318 for further details.

Homes needed for Christmas Host UK, a well established charity backed by the British Council, needs friendly, hospitble people to open up their homes to students from overseas studying in the UK. For details, call Isobel Manook on 872373 or pmanook@hotmail.com

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By meeting others with similar needs members can provide mutual support to one another in a safe and confidential environment.

A self-help group can also give members the opportunity to develop new skills and find out about new treatments or services.

The groups can be included in the local self help directory and receive a newsletter which provides links to other groups. To contact Sue call 531133

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The Link Magazine • October 2001

West Lions aim for more members The new President of the West Swindon Lions' Club has set herself the task of attracting new members so that the club can raise more money for community projects and individuals in need.

Jane Weston, right, club at present, and joined the Lions Club sometimes have to in mid-1998 shortly afturn down requests ter returning to Swin- : for h e1p, wh' is h' is very don after four years disappointing," she working abroad. said. "We recognise "I was looking for that not everyone can the opportunity to spare the time to be a give something back to °ll full time member and the community and we welcome assisthelp those less fortuance from people nate than myself," says who are willing to Jane. "Most voluntary work re- come and help out at specific quires a regular weekly commit- events." ment which I am unable to make The club has a fundraising stall due to my job. As the Lions club which they take to summer fairs organises specific events to raise and festivals and they are well money or help others, there is flex- known for the Christmas collecibility when choosing the dates to tion at the West Swindon Centre suit commitments which members every December. already have, and of course the Money raised goes mainly to losure knowledge of a supportive cal West Swindon charities and team working together on the day." individuals in need; but the club Another thing that attracted Jane also sponsors an Eye Camp each to the Lions was the opportunity year in India, contribute to interto make new friends and meet peo- national disaster relief and raise ple from all walks of life and back- money on behalf of other organigrounds. A monthly social takes sations such as Children in Need place and members are invited to and Marie Curie Cancer Care. social and fundraising events orFor details about West Swindon ganised by other clubs.

Lions Club call Stephen Austin on This year Jane hopes to boost 527 364 (day) or 524 712 (evenings) member numbers. "We are a small or Diane Benson 337170 (evenings).

PETS AT HOME Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday?

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

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details

s° ill

Avoid those awful mistakes with a fresh pair of eyes A spelling or grammatical error in a letter, document, leaflet or brochure is an embarrassment and can also lead to a loss of business.

It's easy to spot the mistakes in a newspaper or a letter received, but no matter how often you read something you've written, it's so easy to miss something.

Linda Street, right, spelling and punctuation. It is a case of readfrom Woodhall Park has recently completed ing what is actually a proof reading course there and not what is and is offering her skills ' perceived to be there." to individuals, small "' So, improve the imbusinesses, and even pression you make by employing Linda. The schools, to ensure what they send out is perfect cost now will repay itbefore printing. self both in time and A proofreader's job money - indirectly in the impression you is to check and mark manuscripts for errors give, and directly in not in spelling, incorrect having to reprint corcapitalization, faulty punctuation, rected material. inconsistencies in headings, page Call Linda Street on 346356. numbering, layout discrepancies and possible factual errors.

Q uality donations "You need an eye for detail, the ability to concentrate for long periwanted ods of time and possess a good grasp of grammar, punctuation Age Concern Swindon always needs and spelling; accuracy is the key," good quality clothing for all ages and says Linda. "It's the exact opposite sizes, along with bric-a-brac to sell of speed reading, which is essenin its charity shop at 51 Fleet Street. tially what busy people do. ProofCollections can be arranged. readers need to read slowly and Volunteers are also needed to staff it. take in every letter of every word To offer call 692166 at the same time as considering

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Telephone Gill on 01793 706224 for details

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24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital - Telephone (01793) 522483

38

The Link Magazine • October 2001

TRADITIONAL BEDS at ANTIQJ S & ALL PINE. In wood, brass, cast and forged metal.

To complement our bed selection we stock a full range of pine furniture.

Linen, old lace and costume jewellery.

See our new range of reclaimed carved pine.

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R47.; — Farepak Mail Order Limited is one of the leading hamper packing companies in the UK. The Christmas packing programme is now well underway at our Westmead site and we have vacancies for Temporary Warehouse Packers and Line Feeders.

No experience is necessary for these positions as training will be given, but applicants should be reliable, physically fit and possess good coordination skills.

In return they will be rewarded with a competitive rate of pay, attendance allowance and a free hamper at Christmas. Protective clothing will be provided Hours of work are: 8am to 5pm Monday to Thursday 8am to 2pm Friday

Farepak Mail Order

Doctors' practice looks forward to moving at the start of its third year The doctors and staff at Taw Hill Surge ry celebrated their second anniversa ry on 13 September and are looking to the future in great anticipation.

Preparations are well in hand for a move to larger premises further along Queen Elizabeth Drive in Taw Hill at the end of the year.

Like the existing surgery, the new one will be in a temporary building, but with increased provision for consultations, nursing care and waiting rooms.

The building will also incorporate space for church and community use.

Taw Hill Surgery has always been keen to utilise the benefits of the internet to its patients and the move to the new premises will be accompanied by an upgrade of the services available. Patients can cur- Dr Peter Crouch and Dr June Lewis rently check the availability of ap- at Taw Hill Surgery. Not pictured Dr pointment times and request re- Helen Teare peat prescription. Soon, it may be leaflet library and on-line booking possible for patients to make ap- system to be very popular."

Dr Helen Teare has recently pointments on-line and, perhaps, arrange to view their own medical joined Dr Crouch and Dr June Lewis at the rapidly growing pracrecords.

Dr Peter Crouch said, "this is a tice.

The doctors and their support very exciting time for the Taw Hill Medical Practice. With the com- staff plan to move to a permanent pletion of the North Orbital Road home at the proposed Taw Hill and the massive influx of new resi- village centre before the fifth annidents, the practice will soon be- versary is celebrated. Building decome very busy indeed. Whilst not signs are at an early stage, but the appropriate for all patients, the GPs hope to maintain their close surgery website helps us keep our links with their community by inhead above the rising tide of quite cluding meeting space for local appropriate requests for medical groups.

Visit www.tawhillsurgery.com information. We expect the new

Residents combine on the Ridge Forty two people living on St Andrew's Ridge responded to an invitation to a meeting on 15 August to discuss their concerns and to consider the formation of a residents' association.

Organised by Abbey Mead coun- dents to develop cillors, Justin Tomlinson, right, the initiative in Owen Lister and Peter Stoddart, the form of an asresidents talked about problems sociation to repin the area such as adoption of resent the area."

Until the resiroads, the provision of a commu" nity beat officer, street lighting, dents' association ? landscaping, buses, schools, has been formed grafitti, play area maintenance and and officers aplaunching neighbourhood watch pointed, contact the Abbey Meads councillors: schemes.

Justin Tomlinson was very Dr Owen Lister, tel: 490182; Peter pleased with the response. "The Stoddart, tel: 879127; Justin councillors have set the ball roll- Tomlinson, tel: 822928 ing, but we shall now be taking a On the web they can be found at back seat and will encourage resi- www.abbeymeadsintouch.com

Open evenings at North Swindon secondary schools Headlands School Cricklade Road

Hreod Parkway School Akers Way

Thurs. I I October, 6pm

Thurs. 18 October, 7pm

For details and a prospectus, please telephone 723625

For details and a prospectus, please telephone 527999

The Link Magazine • October 2001

Organising in Peatmoor Caroline Bowles, right, has been appointed as 'community facilitator' at Peatmoor Community School and is keen to meet people interested in taking part in activities there.

A range of classes and local groups meet at the school but there is always room for more she says. They include 'ballet classes for 3 to 7 year olds, creative drama classes for 7s to 1 is and 12s to 17 year olds, and the Army Cadets. Swindon College also started to use the facilities for its adult classes in September.

Peatmoor Playmates parent and toddler group meets on Tuesdays at 10.15am and Caroline would like to meet anyone interested in running an afternoon session.

For details of the groups, room hire and to offer to organise an event, call Caroline on 881613.

Circus skills workshop for 8 to 14 year olds at Peatmoor Organising in Abbey Meads Community School, Monday 29 Jo Parkinson has been given the task of developing activities atAbbey and Tuesday 30 October, 10am Meads Community School.

12.30pm. £10. Call into the school An experienced youth Tuesdays, 2.30pm to book a place. worker in Swindon, Jo is Bumps & Babes for working with user mums with under groups and helping to one's and parents to develop new ones in the be.

J . F. K 24. ^srFa a ,.a community facilities.

Thursday, 1.15pm Groups currently Special Needs selfBUILDING meeting weekly: support group for all Monday, 1.15pm parents (regardless of SERVICES Women's Group to meet up, dis- child's age) who have children with cuss and chill out. any special needs.

Extensions, Alterations, Friday 9.15am to 11.45am Renovations Coffee morning for anybody livAVAILABLE FOR HIRE ing in North Swindon. Meet up All aspects of garden Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall and find out what's going on. construction including fencing Receptions • Parties • Events All general building work To find out about a group, offer to Good kitchen & bar facilities, stage, help to start a club, or make a sugTel: Mr J.F. Keenan small meeting room, parking gestion as to what activities would (01793) 727824 benefit the community, call Jo on Tel: 770828 for details or to book 07740 037380.

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39

VACANCIES for two leaders

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40

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2001 LEARN TO DANCE

SPXSp Start any week at 7pm Monda y : Atrium Wednesday: Zu Bar, Shaw Ridge f.f.i. Ritmo Latino: 812177

Memories of the brave firefighters of the Fire Department of New York

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Phone Swindon 340437 for further information

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Websites, e-commerce and databases ...

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PRODUCTOOMs

... MAKING IT EASY TO GET YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE We'll answer the questions about what the internet can do for you.

By Sub-officer Martin Lloyd of Westlea Fire Station At the beginning of April this year, three Swindon firefighters, Station Officer Pete Townsend, Assistant Divisional Officer John Popowicz and I, travelled to the United States on a fact-finding trip to North Charleston and Savannah.

Because of flight transfers, we were fortunate enough to have two days in New York.

Due to finances, the only way that we could visit the city and not bankrupt ourselves was by staying in a fire station on 8th Avenue, the home of Engine 54 and Ladder 4. The firefighters we met could not have been friendlier. We were made most welcome by the duty crew who wanted to know all about us.

Call us on: 01635 230235

people trapped by fire or building collapse, and vehicle extrication.

The firefighters of Rescue 1 are considered the'cream' of the New York Fire Department. They are dedicated in the extreme, very professional, committed to helping the public they serve. It was desperately sad to see a picture of their vehicle crushed beneath tons of

rubble and to hear that they were not to survive the unfolding dramas of 11 September.

We all enjoyed the time we spent looking around the city, most of it a blur, trying to take in as much as possible in a short time. Those of you who have been to New York know that the twin towers were one of the most imposing sights.

The sheer size was overwhelming, making it one of the city's biggest tourist attractions. We were no exception, spend-

ing time at the top looking out from the observation level.

The memories of the visit have

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now been placed

Within a short space of time it became apparent that our stay on the station was not going to be a restful one. It seemed that every couple of minutes the station alarm was going off and the crews were responding to a firecall. The battalion that the station fell in was right in the middle of the theatre district in midtown Manhattan.

The station next in line was the home to Rescue 1, a search and rescue appliance whose sole purpose was to carry out rescue of Loss of a friend never met Sheila Mitchell from Westlea writes In the past The Link has published

stories about my research into Hannah Lightfoot, believed to be the morganatic wife of George III. On the 92nd floor of the New York World Trade Centre on 11 September a lady who has shared my interest in Hannah for some time, was working.

I had never met Cindy Dueul but both she and her brother had corresponded over the last two years on the subject of Hannah.

Sadly she has not been found.

Sheila has written a poem Questions for God as a tribute to her friend and to all the other people affected by the horrendous tragedy. It can be found on our web site @ www.swindonlink.com

into a totally different perspective.

Our hearts go out to all the people involved in the tragic aftermath of the terrorist attack on Tuesday 11 September - the office workers, the tourists, the firefighters, police, medics - to anybody involved in the continuing tale of rescue and recovery under circumstances that we cannot even imagine.

As for the firefighters of Engine 54 and Ladder 4, and also Rescue 1, sadly we know that many of them lost their lives. We were shocked to see the picture in the papers of Rescue 1 buried under rubble, and the gallery of missing firefighters in The People on 16 September was chilling. They were such a cheerful bunch of guys, and heroes one and all. We pray for their families.

Victims support Swindon fire fighters had a huge response to a public collection for the Fire Department of New York victims fund at the end of September.

Donations are still welcome and canbe sent to Station Commander Pete Townsend at Westlea Fire Station. Cheques should be made out to 'Wiltshire Fire Brigade. â&#x20AC;˘ An article from fire fighter Shau n Dunham about his trip to China in June will be published next month.

The Link Magazine • October 2001

41

Eyewitness report New York Former Greendown student Guljit Rana from Peatmoor was in Manhattan the day the terrorists struck and describes the expertence.

On the morning of 11 September, I convey what the citizens of New was awoken by a phone call from York were feeling. But when the a cousin in England, frantic to second tower fell, it was clear that know if I was OK and how close I there were no words at all to dewas to the World Trade Centre. scribe what was happening.

These questions would turn out The noise was like no other. The to be the most commonly asked to only reason people were still anyone who happened to be any- watching after the first fell down, where near New York. was because there was still someAsIhurried down my street to 7th Avenue I noticed the crowd of hundreds standing still and looking up, but not even this surreal image could have prepared me for what I was about to see as I edged closer round the corner, and the south of Manhattan became more clear.

The twin towers of the World Trade Center were ablaze, there were people crying on the street, a taxi driver slowly managed to get A photo taken by Guljit on 11 September through a crowd of people only to inform them that thing to look at, almost a symbol the Pentagon had been hit also. of hope, but that too was deIn no time at all it was apparent stroyed. that there was another plane on The memories of the perpetual the way to the White House, and at sound of sirens, subways closed, one point rumour spread of a third bridges shutdown, the city at a plane on its way to Manhattan. total stand-still with 450,000 tonnes The effect this had on my senses of debris are burnt into my mind. was too much to compute, the So is witnessing the queues of crowd thought that this was the people stretching blocks to donate end, and the few that could cope blood, more than the hospitals no longer began to pass out. could handle; the mayor announcNo Hollywood feature could ing that they had more than have recreated what was happen- enough volunteers; the unity of ing, and no writer could have fore- the public, when they knew there seen what was about to happen. was only one way of regaining the When the first tower fell, it became strength to get the city back on to obvious that words like disbelief its feet, and that was to start helpand shock would never be able to ing each other.

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42

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Should be sent to the address on page 4 by 12th of the month

Smoking in the restaurant at Sainsburys Bridgemead.

Further letters on this subject which has been running in The Link since February Profits before health. From Stephen Walker, Grange Park Further to recent correspondence on banned in places such as cinemas, this subject, I have received a letter shopping malls and public transport, from Sainsburys head office which a change fuelled by proof that inhalreads: "We acknowledge that pas- ing other people's smoke - "passive sive smoking is a worry, (but) we do smoking" - results in illnesses such not want to ban smoking. We have to as lung and throat cancers even in balance the needs of our customers non-smokers. This is why the presiagainst the need to run a successful dent of the World Health Organisation recently called for a complete business."

In other words, they are aware of ban on smoking in public places.

Many of the 25% of adults who the health risk, but put profit first.

The debate on smoking in public smoke are willing to refrain from places will doubtless continue. But doing so in public places, but some should we also be worried that a still see it as their right, arguing that major supermarket chain admits to if non-smokers don't like it they can putting profit before the health of its go elsewhere.

Readers must decide for themcustomers? Should we ask whether this policy applies to other areas of selves whether the right to breathe clean air should come before the deits business? Food for thought.

Why does the subject arouse such sire of some individuals to smoke in strong feelings on both sides? Smok- public places. If Sainsburys are uners in the past were free to smoke willing to introduce a smoking ban wherever they wished, and some for the sake of their customers' health, have been reluctant to see this free- perhaps they will do so when the dom reduced. In recent years though, non-smoking majori ty vote with their smoking has increasingly been feet.

Speaking up for smokers in the Sainsburys restaurant From R White, Freshbrook I would like to redress the balance Sainsbury's, there are other superwith regards to the above issue. I am markets nearby with non-smoking a smoker and I cannot believe how policies, Asda for one.

This argument will always have much space in The Link has been devoted to letters from non-smokers two sides, both equally valid. Smokers want to smoke and non-smokers on this subject.

In August's Link I found it amus- want to sit where there isn't smoke; ing that CH Gaits seemed to object to both reasonable arguments.

Writing to your magazine achieves children as much as smokers. Perhaps they should be banned too? nothing for these people, who should Are there any other people she feels complain directly to Sainsburys. At she cannot drink a cup of coffee with? the end of the day it comes down to Sainsbury's have decided not to freedom of choice. Choice to smoke, discriminate and allow everyone to or not; choice to shop at Sainsbury's enjoy their cafe. Good for them. If or elsewhere.

May I suggest that the objectors people are really that concerned about smoke they could shop some- vote with their feet rather than fill up where else. Assuming that, because what is otherwise an informative and of its location, most people drive to useful magazine.

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LETTERS TO THE LINK

^l fa \ •

lattI Factory Showroom open at BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Estate, Swinc Open: Monday - Friday, 9.30am - 5.30pm • Saturday 10.00am - 4.00F

Dr D. Nowotzin Dr A. Dwivedi Dr R. Williams Surgery Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 8.30am-12.30pm; 2pm-6pm hours: Thurs 8.30am - 12.30pm NEW PATIENTS ARE WELCOME

The Link Magazine • October 2001 C

L LL

L ^D^3

For Sale

For Sale

For Sale

Raleigh Calypso girls bike, suit 5-9 yrs, excel cond, £45 ono. Tel: 873460 Ladies racer bike 27" frame, £35. Tel:

Black ash coffee table, 20" x 40", £25.

CornerTV & video unit, £15. Tel:870675 Sleeper couch, pullout, foam, vgc, £20.

Tel: 870774 Mahogany table, expands to seat six & 4chairswith green/burgundy seats, £275 ono. Tel: 481988 Dusky pink fully lined velvet curtains, pelmet, tie backs, to fit patio doors, excellent condition, £60. Tel: 706403 Coffee table, glass top, under shelf, 3 months old, cost £135, accept £60 ono.

Tel: 874054

Wheelbarrow, hose, mower, spade, fork, rake, axe, saw, hoe, spray, tiles, shears, pails, wellies. Tel: 614556 Portable electric arc welder, excellent condition, £20. Tel: 725756 Qualcast electric mower, older type, perfect order, £15. Tel: 886487 Flymo lawn mower, RE300 with grass box, used once, £50 ono. Tel: 877029 Swift Challenger 470SE 94, 2 berth & bathroom, to include full awning, canopy, 2 aquarolls, groundsheet, fully equiped, ready to go, £4,500. Tel: 486734 Volvo 340, excellent condition, full test, F reg, £495 ono. Tel: 851126 Fiat Tipo 1.6 DGT SX, 1990 H reg, met blue, 78K miles, e/windows, e/sunroof, MOT 11/01, £550 ono. Tel: 872829

872531

Playgym swing frame for three seats, (two included), new, £45. Tel: 881551 ELC activity quilt, from three months, excellent condition, £5. Tel: 881353 Little Tikes jungle climbing frame and slide, £70. Trampoline with balance rail, £15. Toys: cars, trucks, tractors etc, offers. Tel: 872531 Fisher Pricetrike, excellent cond, hardly used, chunky wheels, suit boy or girl, £7.

Tel: 611818 Tomy train set/accessories, excellent condition, suit 3yrs up, £10. BMX bike, 3-6 yrs, £10. Tel: 879414 Silver Cross weather shield, brand new, excel cond, £5, ono. Tel: 01285 862513 Chicco baby bouncer chair, £10. Britax Rock-a-Tot car seat, £30. Baby clothes, £10 per bag. 2 semi-flush, 3 light fittings with petal shades, £5 each. Tel: 882989 Baby bath, white, never used, Boots, £5 ono. Tel: 01285 862513 Loadsa Lego, all shapes and sizes, £20 ono. tel: 872541 Bassetts dolly mixture mobile phone fascia, unwanted prize, £8. Tel: 881353 Desk, ideal for child/teenager, v strong moulded plastic, 2 tiers, 115cm x 81 cm x 73cm. £15. Tel: 881353 Ski suit, lady's size 12, good condition, £50. Tel: 348017 BHS silk/lace cream bridesmaid dress, age 12/13, was £100, excel cond, matching hairband, £250 ono. Tel: 420347 Long black dress, Dorothy Perkins, satin/velvet, worn once, ideal for party, size 12. Tel: 01285 862513 3 seater settee & one chair, ocean blue, less than 4 years old, excellent condition, £150. Tel: 346222 Five royal blue office chairs on wheels, vgc, £10 each. Tel: 434312 after 5pm Wooden rocking chair, good condition, £15. Tel: 870981 Black tubular steel single bed and mattress,£25. Singledoordarkwoodwardrobe, £15. White 3 draw bed side cabinet, £5. Glass side panel for shower cubical, £5. Tel: 872531 New double mattress, cost £110, accept £40. Nearly new double bed sette, £25. Battery charger for toys and radio batteries, new, £6. Dome carriage clock, gold coloured, new, £6. Ladies case on wheels, extending handle, 21"x 15"x9", dark blue, new, £4. B & W TV, good picture, £7.50. Ross digital stereo headphones, new, £4. Tel: 636618 Toulon table, extends from 80 to 140 x 80 cm, green frame, natural finish, four matching chairs, £50. Tel: 347577 r

Free

Dining table, round, 43" across (24"

sides dropped) and 4 chairs, teak colour wood, £35. Tel: 812750 Three piece suite, good condition, £60.

Tel: 879097 Three wardrobes, various sizes, one with long centre mirror, £10 each. Tel: 875490

Reclaimed mahogany large square coffee table, glass topped, inside storage unique, £250. Tel: 852637 2 bar electric coal effect fire with dark wood surround, 5ft wide, 33 inches high, £40. Tel: 874738 Single headboard in gold dralon, as new, £10. Aerobic stepping machine, many functions, £25. Tel: 721638 Internal sepia doors, total 12, vgc, includes all handles, hinges, £80 the lot, buyer collects. Tel: 886984 Stone washed oak doors, assorted wall & base kitchen units, never used, 9 doors, £60. Tel: 886984 Stairlift 13 step straight, left hand, good working order, no reasonable offer refused. Tel: 639560 Cleaner for domestic or reasonable heavy cleaning work, gd cond, £15 ono.

Tel: 875564 (eves) Cleaner, Aqua Vac, good condition, hardly used, £15. Tel: 875564 Pearl export 5 piece drum kit, excellent condition, colour: red wine, £400. Tel:

House exchange Large 2 bed house in Toothill for 3 bed house in West Swindon. Tel: 344270

Wanted Cleaner 2/3 hours/week, Shaw. Tel: 878695

Off road mountain bike shoes, size 11, SPD compatible. Tel: 347371

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388 House Cleaners Wanted £5 per hour cash Cleaning and ironing in local private houses in Swindon Daytime hours to suit For further details contact HomeMaids on Swindon 469552

CARETAKER Urgently required for Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Duties, hours, renumeration open to discussion

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency requires Domestic Cle an ers & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue 011 861112

Possible option of job share if preferred Please contact Chairwoman Mrs Fran Blisse for further details.

Tel: 01793 770384 Farepak Mail Order Limited is a highly successful mail order company supplying hampers and gi ft items for Christmas

700246

Sanyo mini system CD, double tape & radio, £40. Tel: 692975 Grundig analogue satellite receiver, 200 channels, vgc, £10. Tel: 726147 Planer, still in box, £10. Battery chargers, as new, £10. Black & Decker drill, £7. Tel: 615079 Exercise rowing machine, £40 ono.

Lights covers, £20 ono. Tel: 721741 Golf clubs & bag, 2 iron woods, sand wedge, putter & 5 irons, Wilson, £35.

Tel: 490128 Golf clubs, full set, 3-S graphite shaft, good condition, £95. Tel: 700030 Mistal wind surf board, 2 sails, ready to go, £200. Tel: 07775925736 Fishtank 4ft x 1 ft x 1 ft with stand and all equipment, £75 ono. Tel: 702171

p ri vate for Sale & Wanted ads

Due to our forthcoming busy season we now have vacancies

for Temporary Service Centre Administrators for Day and Evening Shifts .

Ideal applicants will have a

professional telephone manner, accurate keyboard skills, together with the ability to work under pressure whilst always maintaining the highest

standards of customer service In return they will be rewarded with a competitive rate of pay and a free hamper at Christmas.

Hours of duty:

Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea,

Monday to Friday Day Shift

9am to 5pm

Evening Shift 5pm to 10pm Some additional hours and weekend working may be required

Name & Address (not for publication)

I

43

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L-------------------J

Farepak Mail Order

44

SERVICE

ACCOUNTANCY

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ACCOUNTANCY • Business Start Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax

ACCOU NTANCY

4j

TA D'

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

Short & long term assistance and projects Free initial meeting

Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed

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call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000

BUILDING SERVICES Hillside

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Buildin ° -

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CARPENTRY/JOINERY I

* Doors, internal & external * Skirtings & mouldings * Fitted wardrobes & kitchens * Supply & fit/fit only

Extensions, loft conversions Specialists in all types of building & plastering All work fully insured Contact Dave on 01793 488470

Tel/fax: 01793 721401

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

PAUL EXTON

Highly experienced painter and

• Professional painting & decorating services • Interior and exterior • Domestic & commercial • Specialist finishes • Free estimates A quality finish at

reasonable rates Tel: 01793 - 874139 Mobile: 07780 793253 e-mail: paulexton@lineone.net

I HEATING & PLUMBING

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decorator All interior and exterior work undertaken

For free estimates call Paul on ;.

Mobile: 07712 749315

I IRONING SERVICES IRONING A

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

CHORE?

Tel: 07989 950070 or 01793 339546

Reg: 187606

Services • • •

•

TV & FM aerials Extra satellite points Video & TV repairs Signal amplifiers

Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners

No call out charge h All work

John Phillips Servicing

guaranteed

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Tel: 01793 702601 1 Mobile: 07774 943 783

I CLEANING

CLEANING

f Whitewa)

OVENU

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

DIRTY OVEN?

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured NC(!-° • Quickly usable

You'll be amazed how affordable it is

..call for your free estimate from you local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Not ani mole!

Ironing done in a smoke free enviroment at sensible rates

Call Jackie on 721878 or Donna on 721719

Don't worry ... Help is at hand +! \ Our fully trained team C

R

will restore your oven, hobs, microwaves and extractor hoods to a nearly new standard

Non-toxic • Non- caustic • Bio-degradable

OVENU today for free quote (01793) 831 944

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

ELECTRICIAN

DR AINS ° o v Mm

Dave C7c^Y For all your domestic & commercial requirements

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST

New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards

• CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out

Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Te I : 01793 878609 Mobile: 0585 543294

• No call out charge

ROB HALL Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs, bathroom and power showers All areas of plumbing

Aerial & Television

Palm Joinery Quality carpentry & joinery for the home

APPLIANCE

AERIAL SERVICES

Tel: 01793 828882

Ramleaze, Swindon

P ROP ERTY R EPAIRS

I PLUMBING & HEATINGI Quality Plumbing & Heating

o ' ` ee ra

l ut ql

b[LI.h oo(^'t^j cYWl i7evS, L

S

aGt, ty lre Tel: 01793 886947 Mob: 0780 3432312

s

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps ; • Power showers flOge28` • Bathroom installations All plumbing work unde rtaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

SECTOR APPLIANCE REPAIRS

45

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

JJJJ

I

Same day, local service wherever possible

• Most leading brands • Guaranteed repairs • Same day service

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

No call out charge • No VAT

A SUDS

DEBT COLLECTO R

West W iltsfire

MERLIN DEBT COLLECTION SERVICE

Quality double glazed windows, doors and conservatories For a free, no obligation quote at your convenience, call 01793 873424 or 07968 355557

`Your answer to those customers who just don't like paying !'

• Overdue accounts & debt recovery • Low cost litigation • No recovery — Minimal charge' service available Licensed by the Office of Fair Trading for Debt Collection

Tel: 01793 887366

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

ELECTRICAL/PLUMBING

Sad4e>tt Eeec;tncc42 Se2ceice4

Shaw Electrical & Plumbing Ltd

SPARES • REPAIRS • SERVICE YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse or cleaner bag to fridges or vacuum cleaners we offer an efficient & personal service.

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE 11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378

REMOVALS/STORAGE

&ssEr MouI fr REMOVALS & STORAGE * Single items * Full house * Storage specialists * Packing service * Late booki Tel: (01793) 727307

Mob:

0781

1

188564

24 hours • 7 days

GRAFT4, Block paving specialist

j

Wide variety of colours & designs, Drives, patios & footpaths, slabs, shingle, concrete, etc Garden construction & design Fencing, turfing, landscaping, ponds/water features & regular garden maintenance

We offer a complete building service for your home & garden For good quality with efficient service & competitive prices Ring 01793 485539/07811 698457

CONSERVATORIES

Windows - Doors Conservatories

BUILDING SERVICES

Domestic, commercial & industrial installations Maintenance & repairs * lighting * rewiring * security lighting * garden electrics * heating * bathroom installation

Tel: (01793) 874480 Mob: 07860 760364 W'cE1¢

National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting

SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental Fast tanning canopies and doubles also available

DECORATOR Ce(ellt.6tikg 11 yeas Pail~tia4 4411 r)ecor<atiky ltocxet is lJe%t Swihbott

Offering a high standard of work with references available.

Telephone for a free estimate: 07774 - 208527 days or 870515 eves.

FURNITURE

Hall & Son Ltd A reputation built on quality Traditional carpentry

& building services Kitchens, loft conversions, stairs, doors, building work, bedroom fitments, domestic & commercial works undertaken Free, no obligation quotations Call 01793 644313 or 07768 271994

DECORATOR KoVINWHELAN ELA High Quality Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior FOR FREE QUOTATIONS CALL 01793 725699 OR 07833 147327 GUTTERING

pooIe & Companp .furniture anD Cabinet fflakrre

For individually designed fumtiure for the home or office, made to your specification to suit your needs.

Call: (01793) 873917 or 07989 417794 for a free quotation

UPVC CLADDING PAUL DRAPER uPVC Fascia, Guttering & Cladding FASCIAS CLADDING GUTTERING

Free installation & local delivery

Tel: Swindon 726906 anytime (Mobile 07778 - 641052)

BUILDING SERVICES

* FREE ESTIMATES * Tel: (01793) 825965 3 Overton Gardens, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

Brilliant white fascias 6 month interest free offer!

Written details on reque t The very best quality system for longer durability fitted by the partners for over 15 years Locally run family business All work guaranteed • Cover or replacement Unit 67 Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

I WILL WRITING Savernake Will Writing Service 'Give your family the security of knowing you have written a legally valid will.'

• Convenient • Value for money • Home visit service Single Will : £45.00 Mirror Wills: £65.00 Tel: 01793 887366

46

The Link Magazine • October 2001

BC

The person who changed Histo ry is changing peoples lives Today

o^Evange y Sp

f1c

Worsley Road d^^^

Deaconess leaves for new pastures

SWINDON

AD

FAMILY CHURCH SUNDAYS 10.30AM THE WINNERS LOUNGE SWINDON TOWN F.C.

(z m

cc

m= PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTREI

with people Come and join us Sunday at 10am & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org

For more information, inclu. midweek activities, call Bri an on 849731

Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

budding

Maureen Spinks was sent to Abbey Meads in 1996 to establish a unity. Before leaving for Gloucester she talked to Alan Bushell Methodist (her faith), Baptist (her successor's faith), the United Reform Church and the Church of England.

There have also been disappointments, particularly in the provision of acceptable secondary education. She sympathises with those parents who feel

Causing the lights to fuse at a carol

service is an embarrassing reminiscence for Deaconess Maureen

NOW... WE ARE BACK ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT LINK CENTRE

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw -10:30am: (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre): 874221 St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 10:00am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10: 00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417

a

fr o I

z -` an e o a W

(this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

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

Spinks who left Abbey Meads in September after five years' service.

Otherwise, she has only fond memories of her time spent in the area and, as she beMaureen at the opening of gins a new task in Christ the Servant in June it necessary to Gloucester, she is particularly conscious of the expe- transport their children out of the area, but is concerned about the rience she has gained.

From the outset, her role was to effect this may have on the stabilbe the focal point of the Church ity of the local community.

She also regrets that the comand to help the development of communi ty initiatives. It was cru- munity facilities at Abbey Meads cial, she feels, that there were peo- School are inadequate and the reple available with the time to fa- sult from unsatisfactory consultacilitate the growth of communi ty tion by Swindon Council. But she spirit and she will always be ap- is pleased that the new church preciative of the support in those building is, to an extent, able to early days from the likes of PC compensate, by providing space Roger Guy and communi ty worker for some local groups. The choice Ros Deakin. The supply of infor- of name - Church of Christ the mation was also vitally important Servant - emphasises its role in for this spirit to flourish and she serving the community.

In Swindon, her efforts were foacknowledges the part played by Abbey Chat newsletter and The Link. cused largely on a single commuMaureen's happiest memories nity. In Gloucester she will be inrevolve around the willingness of volved with three established comlocal people, both within the com- munities, bringing fresh chalmunity and the church, to experi- lenges. If she has a concern for ment and to be flexible. "It was North Swindon it is that as the fantastic to be part of local net- area matures and its initial needs works and see these develop," she are met, individuals will have less said. "It was particularly satisfy- inclination to devote time to coming to be able to move onto new munity work.

Maureen will look back at her initiatives, knowing that established ac ti vities were left safely in time in North Swindon as a ve ry important learning experience, althe hands of local people."

Equally satisfying was the posi- ways with new issues to be adtive attitudes of those involved in dressed and new ways of resolvthe ecumenical organisation of ing them to be worked out. church matters, with a strong relaContinued opposite tionship established between

We have a number of properties throughout the Swindon area, providing accommodation

for a comfortable yet independent retirement.

Please call us for fu rt her details on 01672 515622

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Web: http:/ : nsbc.orc uk, TEL: (01793) 345051

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2001

with fond memories church and help build a commabout her ti me in Swindon

Flashback to January 1998 Link, before the start of building at Abbey Meads village centre

"I hope that I have been of benefit to the Abbey Meads community because the community has been of great benefit to me, giving me invaluable experience and a superb foundation for my future work."

Her successor, who is yet to be appointed, will be of the Baptist faith and will not commence duties before January. In the meantime, church services will be conducted by members of the Church headship team, from the various denominations involved in the partnership.

For details, call Richard Candlin on 700641 or Elaine or Malcolm Trevena, 725312.

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New College

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New College has opened a professional development centre in West Swindon and we're called Fast Forward training and development

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