October 2003 Swindon Link

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No. 257 • October 2003 • Circulation 23.000 We otr jus tifi ably proud oft/re qua/i t of. our produrts and our reputation for rrlicl>!c service and attention to detai l.

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WINDOWS

3Ovrrtou Gardens, Sirattott St. Margaret, Sccinduti SN3 HZ • ret; 017! 3 nj 1-t19

FENSA

the positive news force in Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

EXCLUSIVE West Swindon showman Phil Walker is planning a stunt spectacular that Harry Houdini would have been up for Turn to page 2

Butterflies help strong Charlie

Is our mobile phone or computer causing y

health problems?

Turn to page 16 There's a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his staff at "Purton 's hidden Indian treasure"

Mahav-aijah Fully licenced Tandoori & Balti Restaurant

6 High Street, Purton Tel: 01793 770998/770253 Fax: 01793 770998

Free takeaway delivery incl. West & North Swindon Charlie Jarvis recove ry from cancer is being helped by visits to Swindon's new butterfly centre. Story on page 3 Above, Charlie with Luke Brown, manager of Butterfly World at Studley Grange

Open: 7 days a week, 5.30pm to midnight ;incl Bank Holidays)

Sunday lunch: 12noon - 2.30pm The Meharaiah parking Punon

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New North Swindon map produced by The Link flies off the shelves. Find out where to get a copy on page 34

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

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Swindon escapologist looks for sponsor to back death defying world record strait-jacket escape Phil Walker from Toothill could be considered the maddest man on the planet. He wants to be trussed up in a strait-jacket and suspended at 13,000 feet from a hot air balloon by four steel cables, each with an explosive charge attached, timed to go off at thirty second intervals. Phil reckons he can free himself in under two minutes, tear away the remaining charge, don a parachute brought down by an assistant and float down to glory. If he does not make it, plummeting to a glorious end is assured.

Nobody has yet tried such an with ballooning or exsponsor's to fail. audacious world record and Phil treme sports. But who "It really is frustrating that potential sponsors has registered the proposal with knows where this Link don't get it. Americans reGuinness World Records. exclusive might take ceive all the attention; Despite the fantastic media cov- him? there is no encouragePhil is well known in jerage the attempt would get, Phil's ment for British escapoloinitial approaches to major sponsors Swindon and further gists or magicians." have been met with little interest; afield for his magic A further problem for even from companies connected shows, close up illusions, Phil is he cannot do the dressing up as Count stunt in the UK. The Civil Dracula and being a \viation Authority have clown at children's parrefused permission beties. The Link has covered cause he would not be I his activities since March wearing a parachute, 1995 when he and his ^^ hich is incompatible to wife, Heather, went into y getting out of a straitthe entertainment busijacket. He would have to ness as Hemlock Producgo to the USA, Jordan or tions.

Now they put on I Switzerland.

I corporate entertainment, "Obviously it's a risky cabaret events and approposition, but you need pear at kid's parties. the element of danger to Several years ago Phil make it worthwhile dodiscovered he can disloing" said Phil. cate a shoulder to escape Heather supports him, from a strait-jacket. Peobut still thinks it's a barkple attending the Wilting idea. "I'm not happy shire Festival Party in the Park in 1999 will remember Phil about it, but I'm confident he could freeing himself whilst suspended do it," she said.

So, David Blaine eat your heart by a burning rope from a 100 foot out, if you survive your box. crane, above.

He explained that his world record idea came when talking to What's your best book?

British woman balloon record The BBC Big Read is searching holder Lyndsey Muir. "Having for the nation's best loved novel. trained as a parachutist with the But in Swindon libraries, it's Army and skydived as a hobby, it not just about books as many of occurred to me that we could do the top 100 titles are available on i something amazing; 13,000 feet is audio book, video or DVD. the highest you can go in a balloon Central, North and West Swinwithout oxygen, so it would be a don libraries have special dislong-standing record. plays during October and librar"Some people think I'm nuts but ians are looking for comments on the idea is entirely feasible. The these stories. project would be fully assessed for See what else is on offer at local safety in the planning and execulibraries next month on page 6. tion. It's not in my interest or the

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

3

Ticket to Butterfly World helps Charlie's recovery Visiting Swindon's latest tourist attraction, the Studley Grange butterfly centre, near M4 junction 16 became a highlight of the summer holidays for Charlie Jarvis from Haydon Wick. Now she and her family can go there as often as they like after they were presented with a pass for the whole year.

After Paul and Sam An aggressive cancer ' were told there was no took Charlie to the edge ;' hope they spent weeks of life last year and doc _ desperately researching tors told her parents that f they could do nothing more. But Sam and Paul Jarvis would not accept defeat and searched for treatments and remedies via the internet.

Charlie has made a remarkable recovery which doctors admit is almost miraculous after huge public support across Swindon raised £150,000 to pay for pioneering treatment from the Bruzinski Institute in Houston, Texas.

She is currently in r though she has to have tion in late September tc non-active lumps.

Butterfly World own Miller said, "I was very p learn about Charlie from Her story is wonderful a visits contribute to her i were happy to help."

Sam said, "the butterfli calming effect on the ^ they've started to explain

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

IKEA - love to have you in Swindon but not in the West Suggestions that Swedish furniture and household goods giant might be interested in setting up in the former Renault building -now Spectrum - has been described as 'ridiculous' by a West Swindon resident.

Dave Smith, who lives on Shaw Ridge, says the site is too small, too areas around it were turned into car parking, there still would not be close to housing and does not provide enough car parking. "Anybody enough spaces.

"There would be traffic jams all along Mead Way from North Swinwho has been to the Ikea store in Bristol on a busy Saturday will know don, back down to Great Western Way and along Whitehill Way. It about the log jam back onto the M32.

"The Spectrum building might be ver y large, but even if all the open would be grid lock and a complete nightmare for people living in Shaw and Westlea - not only for access to their homes, but from shoppers parking in their streets.

"Ikea is welcome in Swindon, but not if shoppers from thirty miles away clog up residential areas."

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Expansion could be going east

OPTIPLAN

Fears that villages to the west of Swindon may be absorbed into the town in the search for land to accommodate another 4,000 homes as part of the Local Plan to 2016 may be receding.

Following public consultation earlier in the year, new proposals for the draft local plan released on 24 September are likely to suggest that the houses be built to the east of the A419, and between the A420 and Wanborough.

This will set the scene for further long term town expansion after 2016, as highlighted in the May edition of The Link.

However, much to the dismay

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of environmentalists, council planners are likely to support thebuilding of 1,800 houses next to the Coate Water Site of Special Scientific Interest, as part of the proposals by the University of Bath to build an out of town campus.

House building in both these locations are likely to generate considerable protest, though further public consultation will take place before any plans are implemented.

the Link Magazine_ Published by Swindon Publications Ltd.

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e: publisher@swindonlink.com www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor:

Roger Ogle

Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 8?2282

-___

ADVERTISING ENQQQ

ES:

Call Jenni Fowler (01793) 872531 advertising@swindonlink.com Booking deadline: 6 October "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978.

It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994."

ditorW copy ate for ` ovember: 10 October

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden

iblished: 25 October

unless an advertiser or publisher has

sought permission. Articles and photo)py for December: 12 Novemb , graphs require similar authority ^.,ndawei

•

5

The Link Magazine • October 2003

Community comes together when pub opens When Taw Hill resident Mark Edwards started asking questions in June 2001 why a house builder wanted to change the use of land at the entrance to the new development at Taw Hill, from leisure use to flats, little did he know that his campaign would result in a large community pub being opened by Arkells on 22 October this year.

Mark revealed the problem exclusively to The Link in October two years ago. With encouragement from local MP Michael Wills, Arkells bought the land and came up with ambitious plans for their 102nd pub.

Taw Hill Residents' Association chairman Richard Barrass paid tribute to the effort by the brewery to become part of the community.

"Arkells have been very responsive to the needs of Taw Hill people from their earliest proposals.

They have always been ready to discuss ideas and also sort out problems."

New use for West community building The former Oliver To_nkins Playgroup hut at Kiln Park, Toothill, has been given a new use after Stuart Lambert, who runs the Kickin Heights school of Tae Kwon Do and Kick Boxing, took over the lease.

The building has been empty for two years after the volunteer run playgroup had to close down for lack of children, due to the availability of free nursery classes in the area.

The but was opened in

NEW PLAYGROUP OPENS

May 1987 after a group of parents raised £14,000 from the Children in Need Appeal and Swindon companies and trusts, with help from a church community worker and Thamesdown Council.

Right, June 1987 Link fr ont page. The late Toothill coun cillor Ricky Midwinter is pietured opening the hut

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Mark Edwards, left, with Richard Barrass outside the hostelry nearing completion

• If you can not find what you are looking for we will try our best to find it for you!

Mark said that despite publicity in association newsletters and The Link about the project since 2001, over the last few months people living close by have been express-

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on Queen Elizabeth Drive. "More people have been attending association meetings recently to discuss concerns and worries."

The Taw-ny Owl will feature a variety of themed seating areas around a large lounge bar, a games TV room, a function room for private hire and community events and six bed and breakfast rooms on the first floor. Outside there will be gardens and an amphitheatre for performances.

The landlord has been appointed and will take up residence in early October. www.tawhilicommunity.com www.arkells.com

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

Chapter and verse at a library near you If you can't remember the last time you read any poetry, National Poetry Day on Thursday 9 October is a great way to get back in touch, writes Pat Gould.

You'll be surprised what you can find, particularly some of the children's anthologies which are always full of lively and amusing poems.

People choose a favourite poem for many different reasons; it might stir a memory from the past, or because it makes them laugh or cry. One poll chose Rudyard Kipling's'If' as the nation's favourite poem. It's great, but there are thousands more to discover.

Come and have a browse on the library shelves or search the

internet on People's Network terminals and find a favourite poem for yourself.

Reading out West The next meeting of the West Swindon Readers' Group takes place on Tuesday 30 September, 7pm.

This month's book is 'Welcome to the world, baby girl' by Fannie Flagg. Anyone who has read the book is welcome to attend this small friendly group.

For details, call Tracey Dowling on 465554 or mail: tdowling@ swindon.gov.uk

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Cards for Good Causes will be

North Swindon library is the first in the town to introduce technol running a shop in West Swindon ogy which speeds up the return and issue of books.

Library from 5 November to 20 All you have to .:. f -` December. do is expose the bar -A manager is required to set it code in the cover of up, recruit volunteer workers and a book or on a mu7- F ensure smooth operation. Call Jill sic item to a laser Grigg on 01264 361555 for details. beam and the ma chine will update i ' Areyougame to the central compuf r ter records of loans Staff at North Swindon Library are and returns. looking for volunteers to help set Library manager up a Games Club for teenagers livGilli Palmer said, ing in the area. "it's fiendishl y ' ,, For those not aware of the mysclever, butthere are t instruction leafletteries of games, members play ta= and staff on hand ble-top strategy games based on to help users. ==° science fiction and fantasy themes.

"The machine is The club, co-ordinated by North Swindon Library and Swindon no substitute for Talk to the rrtachiile. Nick 1 o 101.0 ii and Shirley Youth Service with support from people, but if Colbeck at the North Swindon library's book reader you're in a rush The Games Workshop, is proposed and there's a queue at the desk, the self-service check out will ease for Tuesdays, 4pm to 6pm. congestion."

The volunteers will recruit and involve members, set up each session, help with model making and Regular weekly story times take place in libraries across the town, generally oversee the activity. No The sessions are a mix of stories, songs and rhymes and are aimed at previous knowledge is necessary, under 5s and their parents or carers. but rapport with young people is It's an opportunity to meet new people and give a child the chance to essential. Full training will be prodevelop a love of books from an early age. Sessions are held at vided.

• Central Library: Tuesday, 11am - 11.30am A meeting for interested volun• North Swindon Library: Tuesday, 11am - 11.30am teers takes place on Tuesday 14 • West Swindon Library: Friday, 10.30am - 11am.

October, 4pm at North Swindon For sessions at other Swindon libraries, call 463238.

Library. For details call Gilli Palmer www.swindon.gov.uk/Iibraries on 725836.

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

FOR SPECIALIST LEGAL ADVICE * Conveyancing (On-Line Estimate Service) * Employment * Family Law * Wills & Probate For more information or detailed conveyancing costs visit: www.crd.org.uk

C SOLICITORS D Ca rter Read & Dove Commerce House 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon

E-mail: info@crd.org.uk Tel: (01793) 617617

Advice centre for all communities moves forward To overcome recent negative publicity about the Millen Advice Point in the town centre, the Mayor of Swindon coun Derek Benfield was welcomed at an open day on 9 September.

Bad press is unhelpful to any organisation, particularly when allegations about its operation are not based on fact, and advice point trustees want to emphasise the positive work that goes on.

A full investigation carried out

by The Charity Commission ear-

Free family halloween disco & karoke Saturday 25 October , 7pm - 11 pm Toothill Community Centre Fancy dress competition,

h er in the year found suggestions of misconduct to be completely unfounded.

The Mayor said he was extremelypleasedtovisitMillen. "I'm very impressed by the facilities for giving advice in private.

"Any organisation that works to help all our communities, whatever race, colour or creed must be

applauded."

Millen Advice Point at 55 Manchester Road (tel:611800) provides free and confidential advice on a drop-in basis on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 9.30am and 2.30pm, and on Fridays 9.30am to 1 pm.

Advice is available in English, Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi and Bengali.

The Mayor and Mayoress with Millen Advice Point committee members

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Fax: (01793) 511249

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A branch of Citizens Advice Bureau at the Pinehurst Peoples' Centre in Beech Avenue is expanding with a lottery grant, to offer open door sessions on Mondays 10am to 4pm and Thursdays 10am to 2pm.

Advice by appointments are available on Wednesdays.

In the last six months the advice point has dealt with more than 160 new clients, helping local people resolve their problems by providing information and advice and by influencing local policy makers.

However, the most common problem that people seek help with is debt, as well as welfare benefits, employment and family matters.

Advice Session supervisor Paul Wigley said, "we offer impartial, confidential and non-judgemental advice on almost any matter and if we don't know the answer we will refer you to someone who does."

Nearly eighty per cent of CAB workers are volunteers and the service urgently needs more. Formal qualifications are not required and many find that CAB training and experience helps to provide a route into paid work.

Trainees are supported all the way through and regular reviews help them develop their skills.

For details about volunteering, call 491166 and leave your contact details.

The North Swindon Advice Point number is 529150 or mail: nsap@ukonline.co.uk

Advice out West Advice on welfare rights, housing and debt issues are available at sessions run by the West Swindon Advice Point at West Swindon Family and Community Project, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook on Mondays and Thursdays 10am to 12noon.

The project holds its annual general meeting on 3 October at 12.30pm fol," lowed by a buffet lunch. t a For details and informa' tion about the project, call 871303. v a ,' Members of the Family Project youth group painted `` a junglescape mural to brighten up the garden dur ing the su mmer holidays.

KatieEttenfield and Steven Pursey put the finishing touches with help from project worker Julie Batson ^^'

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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 30/11/05. after which the then current variable base mortgage rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the lender may 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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10 The Link Magazine • October 2003

Street sign scenery Ben Walker from Alnwick, Toothill has been waging war on what he calls a form of litter which confuses people and wastes taxpayers money.

He explains For some years I have made at- instance there is one in Rowton country, and is a form of litter, isting ones. tempts to clear our streets of re- Heath Way, on which we are told having no use whatsoever. What It seems to me that in every aspect dundant road signs. 'new traffic islands ahead.' To my happens when another sign is of council work, there is an attitude I have had dealings with both knowledge that has been there for needed? Well our wasters simply of laisez faire - they don't care as we political parties - seven council- 20 years. How new is 'new? buy another, instead of using ex- are paying for all the wastage. lors in total. All are very supportAll over the place there are signs ive of my efforts, but that has been advising us of new pedestrian the end of it, apart from one Tory lights. Alright the message has councillor, who made arrange- gone out, let the signs now be re- a ments for me to debate the matter moved. with the council Contracts ManAt Ashington Way the old cy`. ager. Sadly, that had to be can- clist signs were not removed when celled at short notice. the lights were put in.

Signs are installed at the drop of This poor attitude is found not A ! " a hat and there they remain. For only in Swindon, but all over the i ,

Right, whilst we're complaining abou tsignage, can amlbody explain zohat these three mean at the North Swindon District Centre?

At Olga's Hair Studio our talented team of stylists offer you a superior hairdressing service within a friendly and relaxed atmosphere at our modern Shaw village salon.

If you are after a new style, cut or colour call in for a free informal consultation or phone 874825 to book an appointment Open: Tuesday & Wednesday: 9am-6pm; Thursday & Friday: 9am-7pm Saturday: 8.30am - 3.30pm

Left, another misleading sign at the North Swindon Centre. A health centre was once considered, but the space above the library is now offices for the health authority

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The Link Magazine - October 200 3

Langstone Way - residents' confusion or council cock-up?

The long awaited start on work to make Langstone Way outside Westlea School safer for pedestrians has caused huge anger amongst residents, who live next to the curb build-outs and road humps being installed, and parent road safety campaigners, as well as confusion amongst councillors and council officers.

Installation of the humps has Funding for the project was first ices truck parked where workmen agreed under the 'safer routes to were still finishing one of the curb been delayed until at least midOctober so that further discussions school' scheme three years ago and build-outs.

Resident Wanda Allen was livid can take place. work was promised for Easter 2002.

Local councillor Mary Martin However the plans to slow traffic about the work going on right outand reduce 'rat run' through traffic side her house. "The project is an said Department of Transport rules only got to a public exhibition in absolute cock-up. In January we require certain physical changes were assured that the council to roads to create a 20mph zone.

January 2003.

"Every effort was made to achieve maximum public consultation on this project but perhaps the delay in starting the job has clouded the issue.

"The petition against the humps has been referred to the Environment Commission and in the meantime officers will be monitoring speed on Langstone Way. We shall then assess the requirement for the humps with appropriate signage."

Bonfire night Westlea School

Public comments were reported to the councillors West Area Panel in March but work during the Easter holidays this year had to be put off because West Swindon councillors asked council officers to consider further amendments to the proposed scheme.

The problems during the summer holidays appear to have arisen because nobody went back to residents to report the outcome of the public consultation or councillor intervention. Reports in the January, March and April Link have followed the saga.

Campaigner Dawn Dolphin described in the August Link how her optimism of three years ago had turned to utter frustration at the slow progress on the project. "We'll be glad to see the road safety measures in place; there will be uproar if they don't get the job done on time," (by the beginning of term).

On the first day of term children were having to cross Langstone W ay behind a huge Swindon Serv-

would come back to us with proposals after officers had considered comments. But workmen turned up on 20 August to start work on two build-outs on the same side of the road which gives priority to rat run traffic. We want road safety and I can live with a build-out outside my kitchen, but when this means drivers speeding to work get priority, is that safe?

She also accused Swindon Services of not taking the job seriously.

"We were promised the job would be finished in three weeks. Not once did the workmen turn up before 9am, but on the first day of term they were there at 8am; it's unbelievable incompetance."

Residents also complained bitterly about the proposed speed humps. "People who live all along Langstone Way have objected," said Brian Tuck. "The humps are in the wrong place. We were told that the plans would come back to us but the council is just doing what it wants."

Fitness for Phillis Phillis Green, 68, from Westlea is setting an example of how to maintain fitness.

She answered correctly all but one health and fitness questions in a Link Centre Active Lifestyle Centre quiz to win a month's cross training pass.

Phillis, who recently achieved a City & Guilds computing course, has now enrolled on a free Health For Life course run by Swindon Council, a 12 week programme of study and assessment on how to maintain a fitness based lifestyle through exercise and diet.

Wednesday 5 November 5.15pm Barbecue; 6pm Bonfire 6.30pm Fireworks Tickets from the school office: Adults £3; children £2. Family tickets in advance only: £8 Organisers of other bonfire events to be publicised in The Link should call 872282 by 10 October.

11

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Phillis receives her month's pass Jrom Link ALC instructor Brian Gardner

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12 The Link Magazine • October 2003

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Education choices. Help at family project Swindon Council education welfare officers Faye Butler and Barbara Langham will be available at the West Swindon Family Project on Friday 10 October, 9.30am to 11.30am to discuss sending children to primary or secondary schools in West Swindon.

They can also deal with enquiries and problems relating to issues like admissions, attendance and special needs. No appointment is necessary. Just drop in at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook.

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Teenagers. Don't you just love 'em?

The Children's Information Service is planning to run four six week long Parenting Teenagers courses aimed at parents and carers who are experiencing difficulties with their adolescents and want to improve their relationship with them.

The courses will offer skills and • to find new ways of improving knowledge on how to deal with communication, set boundaries the difficulties. It is hoped both and manage conflict. parents will attend and teenagers The first course starts on Tueswill be encouraged to take part in day 11 November 6.30pm to some of the sessions.

8.30pm. The cost is £10 per course This is an opportunity: per parent/carer, £15 for couples, • to discuss parenting issues and retu rn able on course completion. difficulties in a safe and confiden- Funding support maybe available.

There will be a limited free creche. tial environment; For details and to book a place • to meet other parents with similar concerns in a small group; call Michelle Zandvoort, Parent • to boost confidence in being a Support Worker on 541799 or mail: parent of a teenager; michelle.zandvoort@bt.connect.com

The National Childbirth Trust Nearly New Sale Saturday 11 October, 11am to 1pm. Oasis Leisure Centre. Entry £1 Quality clothes for 0 to 4 year olds, cots, prams, nursery equipment, maternity wear, toys, videos and books.

To sell items: send a large (A5 or A4) SAE to NCT Sellers' Packs, 2 Noyes Close, Burghley Park, Swindon, SN25 1 TD. 30°/ commission is deducted from sales to fund local NCT services.

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The Link Magazine • October 2003

Ssh! Listen to the drums in the library North Swindon Library will be celebrating Family Learning Weekend with an action packed Family Learning Day on Saturday 11 October from 10am to 2.30pm.

Along with a chance to play the home is for all family members has to offer. We can't give away drums there will be face painting, and also for organisations who can balloons everyday, but we can give T-shirt design, rhyme sessions for offer facilities to help family learn- you and your family free use of computers and the Internet, a range under 5s and a session to help par- ing take place.

"Libraries are a great place for of books for learning and leisure, entsenjoymakingmusicwiththeir families to visit together, to sup- the latest films on DVD and video, children.

Librarian Jo Richardson de- port leisure and learning. But it's music CDs and story books.

"There's neverbeen abetter time scribed the day as an opportunity not just about books any more, to do something very different in a although they still play a big part. to join the library. It's completely library. "Family Learning Week"Come along to North Swindon free; just bring along some form of end is a national campaign to show to enjoy the activities and also look identification."

Creche facilities will also be how important learning within the around and see what the library Neil Griffiths of the Swindon based Storysacks project entranced children at available on the day. For details the North Swindon Library storytime on 27 August with his books Itchy Bear, call Rebecca Bolton on 464202 www•swindon.gov.uk who just had to scratch, and Ringo the Flamingo, about the legless bird who found a role in life helping others

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14 The Link Magazine • October 2003

Drop in family size delays North secondary school build Lack of children moving into North Swindon and fewer than expected babies being born in the area were two of the reasons given by Swindon's director of education, Hilary Pitts, for yet another delay in the start on a secondary school in the area, at a meeting arranged by Blunsdon and Haydon Wick Parish Councils on 19 September.

The £58 million private finance initiative project to rebuild Hreod Parkway, create an education campus including a new secondary school, a primary school and two special schools at Priory Vale and rebuild Moredon Primary School on Akers Way, is to start by the middle of 2004.

The new Hreod, combined as one 11 to 16 school is planned to open by December 2005.

The main contention at the public meeting was the opening date of the North Swindon school at Priory Vale, known as S1.

Parents pressed for a September 2006 opening date, which is three years later than many were led to believe when they bought their houses at Abbey Meads.

However Ms Pitts said the latest survey of children in the area requiring secondary education does not make the school financially viable until September 2007 when there will be around another 100 children leaving primary school.

National and local data shows that the average number of children in a family has dropped from 2.5, which was used for school planning in the past, to about 1.7.

Ms Pitts said the build programme is on course to start in mid-2004, and the opening date for Hreod had been agreed. However the independent School Organisation Committee would express its preference at the end of the year on the Si opening date, based on a wide range of considerations. After further consultation, the final decision would not be made until March next year.

The financial issues are a major problem. Funding of schools is based on the number of children in attendance, but at secondary level all subjects have to be staffed adequately. If Si were to open in 2006 with too few children it would mean considerable subsidy from the education budget and other schools in the town could lose out.

Also present was Hreod Parkway headteacher Andrew Fleet who said he and his staff are i mpatient to relaunch the school in new buildings on one site.

He acknowledged the frustrations of parents whilst pointing out that pupils at Hreod had recently exceeded the national average in SAT tests and the rise in GCSE passes had put the school in

the top 100 most improved schools the successful PFI company will in England and Wales. build the school and it will be After the meeting parent Ian mothballed by the Local EducaDallow from Abbey Meads said he tion Authority until the money is was angry about the situation and available to run it." felt powerless. "We moved here Three private companies are cursix years ago on the understand- rently assembling proposals for ing a secondary school would be building and managing the packbuilt in 2003. My son is due to age of North Swindon schools for move up in September 2004 and the next 25 years, within the PFI we feel we cannot get the best for scheme, and the preferred bidder him." will be announced at the end of the One local primary headteacher year. said many parents had the same Abbey Meads councillor Justin feelings and at least six had moved Tomlinson said Swindon Council house to areas where there is had made it clear that they want Si greater choice of school. to open in 2006 but now that eduParent Helen Miah said she was cation is run by separate organisaextremely frustrated by the lack of tions, the decision will be made by answers to the basic questions an independent body. about choosing a school. "I don't Chair of the Si governing body want to wait until next March for a Neil Askins said he was surprised decision on S1 so that I can work by the lack of passion or anger at out what is best for my children in the meeting, but recognised many either September 2006 or 2007. people were resigned to having "A secondary school in North little say in the decisions.

Swindon will be a major corner"We want to see Si opening soon stone in the development of our after Hreod in 2006. It would recommunity and we need it as soon duce the potential for chaos as a as possible. result of some parents transferring "My two major worries are that children to a school nearer their North Swindon is losing intelli- homes and would help Hreod plan gent parents who are sending their for the future. Swindon has to find children out of the area, and that a way to underwrite Sl from 2006."

Flight to Farmors School continues When Julie Little from St Andrew's Ridge decided in late 2000 that she would not accept the offer of a place at Hreod Parkway or Headlands for her son, she did not realise how many other parents would join her in a search for alternatives outside Swindon.

Luckily for them Farmors School at Fairford had capacity to expand and take on ; another 86 children from September 2001.

The number travelling from North Swindon rose to around 130 this September.

However parents who decide that their children should make the twelve mile trip to the Gloucestershire school also have to Start of a new term for the third intake from North find £435 per year to Swindon. Youngsters waiting for the bus at Ash Brake cover transport costs.

"It is very disappointing and Janjuha from Ash Brake, said she frustrating that the North Swin- and her family had moved to the don school is delayed yet again," area five years ago when her paid Julie. "Parents are committed daughter Sonica started in Year 1 to getting the best for their chil- at primary school and was told dren and despite the dedication of that a secondary school would be the teachers at Hreod, our desig- built within three years. nated secondary school, the exam Her son has just started at results and other aspects of the Haydonleigh School and Anaya is school do not meet our expecta- not convinced that he will get the tions." chance to attend the proposed new Another Farmors' parent, Anaya school in another five years time.

The Link Magazine • October 2003

15

Brand new school welcomes first intake Forty five reception and six Year 1 children started their school life in two mobiles in September at Bridlewood School at Ash Brake in North Swindon. Unfortunately, political objections to the building of the 210 place school last year, delayed the construction start which means the staff and children will move into the permanent facilities in Spring 2004.

Headteacher Jane Rodbourn said getting the school off the ground has been more of a challenge than normal.

Bridlewood will take children across the primary age range in the summer term.

So that staff can be appointed in ti me, Ms Rodbourn would like to hear from parents who wish to register their children at Bridlewood as soon as possible.

Call 706830 for details.

and all ® taped media :: Wedding videos

The first intake with, from left, teacher Kerry Stone, teaching assistants Lorraine Lukins and Christine administrative assistant Denise Barkham, headteacher Jane Rodbourn, teacher Kasia Wojewodka

Youngsters attending Greendown Community School in Grange Park had a delayed start to the autumn term when it was decided that it was unsafe to return because building work had not been completed.

The West Swindon school is not complete the necessary ground nearing the completion of a £3 work in time for the start of term million extension and remodelling and it was not safe for children to to accommodate an extra 150 chil- return to school. We would like to dren over five years (from Sep- apologise to anybody inconventember 2002). ienced b the sudden decision to The new parts of the school, keep the school closed for an extra which will add a multi-purpose two days. hall, nine classrooms and admin"The teaching and support staff istration areas, are not expected to at Greendown are doing a great be ready until 29 September. job to ensure that despite the buildHeadteacher Steve O'Sullivan, ing not being on schedule we conwho spent virtually every day at tinue to provide a high quality school during the summer holi- educational provision. The childays keeping an eye on work and dren are taking a very responsible taking deliveries, said that it was attitude whilst building work is regrettable that a smooth start to completed. We can't wait to move the year had not been possible. into and make full use of the new "Unfortunatel the contractors did facilities."

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16 The Link Magazine • October 2003

Living with diabetes The October meeting of the Swindon Group of Diabetes UK takes place at the Broadgreen Centre on 7 October, 7.30pm where diabetes specialist nurses Cilia Kirkman and Sue Gaskill, from the Great Western Hospital, will discuss Practical Aspects of Living with Diabetes.

The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month to listen to speakers, provide support and practical information.

Membership of the group is open to anybody and is free. For details call the secretary Matthew Spencer on 851229.

Reps wanted to seek the best in health provision The Commission for Patient and Public Involvement in Health has launched a campaign to recruit volunteers from Swindon to serve as the first members of a national network of local health forums.

The region's representatives will be amongst over 4,500 members of the public from across England to join nearly 600 Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Forums which will come into being on 1 December, with the phasing out of the Community Health Councils.

The PPI Forums will have unprecedented powers to make checks on the standard of health services and give the public real influence in all decision making about health in the NHS and elsewhere.

Forum members will also find out what people in their community think about health locally.

People interested in becoming a PPI Forum mem-

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Details can also be found at www.maketimeforhealth.org .

The Commission has contracted not-for-profit organisations to support the new members of the PPI Forums, including health focussed and community groups such as carer support bodies, charities for older people and disability-related organisations.

Bath Health Advocacy will be the support organisation for the PPI Forum covering Swindon area. For details mail Nick Westbrook: icas@bathchc .demon.co.uk

The threat to health from electro-pollution There is always public outcry when a new mobile 'phone mast near housing is proposed - even though we quite happily use mobiles and there continues to be concern about the effects of living close to electricity pylons.

It's hard to imagine a day without using electronic equipment like mobile phones, computers, microwave ovens or the TV. But all of them have a potentially harmful effect because of the amount of 'electro-pollution' they give out.

And as more and newer technology comes on to the market, there will be greater levels of electromagnetic radiation around us, whether we are using the devices or not. Wireless personal computers are becoming common, sending data around the house, school or office from machine to base station, or from one building to another.

Blue Tooth is the next fashion statement. You might have seen people walking around wearing an ear piece with microphone which communicates without wires to a mobile phone in their pocket. Over the next few years video pictures to 3G phones will greatly increase the level of electronic signals whizzing about the atmosphere.

There is a growing amount of evidence which suggests that this electro-magnetic emission has a harmful effect on health because it interferes with the body's own delicate electro-magnetic frequencies which maintain a natural and healthy balance. What we don't know is the damage to individuals caused by the interaction between body frequencies and those given out by electronic equipment.

People react differently, but common complaints include headaches, burning sensations, itching on the skin, tiredness, lack of concentration and irritation.

Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to the long term effects of electro-magnetic pollution as their bodies are still in the formative stages; they are also the largest users of mobiles. As the 'safe' level of exposure to electronic

signals i, not clear, the use of the billions of mobile 'phones worldwide has been described by leading neurosurgeon Leif Salford as 'the largest biological experiment in the history of the world.'

Avoiding electro-magnetic radiation is not an option but a British company Ecoflow has invented two small devices which neutralise the effects on the body. The 'Biophone' is attached to a mobile or cordless phone closest to where signals are received, and the 'Bioguard' can be worn as a pendant or on the lapel to guard against electronic emission from computers and other electrical items.

So concerned is Ecoflow at the lack of public understanding on the potential hazards of electropollution that a donation from every sale is made to the Radiation Research Trust: www.radiation research.org

So confident are Ecoflow of their products that if within 90 days you are not satisfied with their performance, they can be returned and the purchase price refunded.

The Link is now an independent distributor for Ecoflow products.

Whether we like it or not we are all exposed to the effects of harmful electro-magnetic fields. Now there's a way to neutralise the threats to ensure good health for ourselves and our families. For details call 872282 or mobile 07867 845075.

17

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18 The Link Magazine • October 2003

Pictures that nearly got away - 1

ADVANCED AERIAL & SATELLITE SERVICES

We did not have space in our September Link to include the youngsters who attended the Peatmoor Sky Digital 'In at the Deep End' Gifted and authorised installer Talented Summer School at the

FreeView installation beginning of the summer holidays. However their work looked • On call until 10pm so great that we could not let it 7 days a week swim away without recognition.

• FM aerials Inspired by sea life, thirty pri• European & motorised mary and secondary children satellite systems worked with artist David • All work guaranteed • Free estimates O'Connor over six days to design • Security and CCTV systems and create large wire sculptures

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If you think a project you know of could qualify for a grant of up to £ 1,000, call 01865 256235 for details.

Summer holidays in the Parks area of Swindon was a lot more exciting with a community dividend grant to SPLASH (Schools and Police Liaison Activities for Summer Holidays) to run a visual arts project. From left are neighbourhood team leader Steve Richards, artist Gordon Dickenson, Danielle Gibbs and Millie Gayle-Brown working on a bike sculpture

Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

said, "at first there were just two children talking tome about the ceremonial robes, but within seconds there was a whole gang, climbing out of the trees, some literally; it was great to pose with them."

The Mayor returned to Lydiard in early September to judge entries by children to the ' With Love from Lydiard' design a postcard competition based on any aspect of the house Coun Benfield holds up entries with Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of the house or the park.

.

A minimum of 1 % of the Society's profits are returned to projects to benefit the

local community through the

The Mayor of Swindon coun Derek Benfield made the annual mayoral journey to Lydiard House to pose for the traditional portrait which will hang at the Civic Offices alongside his many predecessors.

Youngsters enjoying the last few days of the summer holidays in the park were also

♦i

Regeneration plan to be agreed A project to restore Lydiard Park was nearly killed off when Swindon Council's cabinet decided in July to review the business plan associated with the proposal to apply for £3.8 million to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

However, after deep discussions with English Heritage and West Swindon company Innogy, which has already spent £100,000 on development work in advance of the lottery application, the project is back on with all party support, subject to cabinet approval on 24 September.

Cabinet member for culture coun Justin Tomlinson said, "the proposals now make sense and this is good news for the friends of Lydiard and the people of Swindon."

19

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

The big top in the Wyvern Where have the last nine months gone? After a magnificent summer and early September sunshine. its time to get ready for the new pantomime season.

Promoter Charles Vance is bringing Goldilocks and the Three Bears to town, the traditional tale of a little girl who stumbles across a cottage in a wood, complete with bowls of steaming porridge and comfortable beds.

But this year the story has been expanded into an elaborate circus adventure. In Swindon, Goldilocks will be daughter of a circus owner. wh o is Circus troupe at the ready. rear from the dame in traditional panto left. Vicky Binns. Liam Dolan. Tweedy, fashion. But the circus is ail- Rev Roger Royle. promoter Charles ing and needs a make-over, Vance, Alexis. Front, Pollyann Tanner, such as a new animal act.

Amanda Sandow, Howard Taylor The good fairy. disguised as a bareback horse rider has a you have a show of hilarity in the plan for Goldilocks to sign up the making. bears as the new star act and forThey will be joined by clowns tunes start to turn around.

Tweedy and Alexis, making a welHowever, they have to contend come return to the Wyvern. Howard with the evil Jasper Black, who Taylor from GWRfm, circus perhatches a plot to kidnap the bears former Amanda Sandow. and BBC for his rival circus. This results in radio and TV vicar Rev Roger lots of madcap adventures in tradi- Royle.

Swindon's own Pollyann Tanner tional pantomime style.

Bring in children's TV presenter and the Tanwood Dancers make Liam Dolan as Billy the Circus Kid, up the ensemble of fun.

Vicky Binns from Emmerdale as Individual, concessions. family Goldilocks and Ross Davidson and group tickets are now on sale from Eastenders and Holyoaks and from the Wyvern, tel. 524481.

Where's your favourite Swindon place?

There's still time to enter the free competition to find 'Swindon's Favourite Places.'

The Swindon Civic Trust is looking for people across the town to put forward their ideas for exhibition. visually or acoustically. such as graphics, photos. drawings. writing. recordings. videos. DVDs, models and art installations.

Any place that can be readily visited by the public can be featured and submissions in several age categories, as well as entries from noncommercial groups. will be welcomed.

The judges will look at the quality of the personal entry and its ability to evoke a positive response. Vision, imagination and public rapport will all be highly valued.

The closing date is 24 October. ready for an exhibition in November.

For more details, call 520592.

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20

Swindon Wide Apart from laying down lots of clues, what did the Romans do for Swindon?

The archaeology project to excavate more of the Roman site at GroundwelI Ridge in North Swindon during June and July attracted lots of publicity. partly as a result of Channel 4s Time Team's Big Dig close-by. Now that the dig area has been covered up and the dust has settled, English Heritage Project Officer Pete Wilson provides the definitive assessment on the summer's exploration.

The excavations conducted by the English Heritage Centre for Archaeology in co-operation with Swindon Borough Council were an undoubted suc-

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cess.

We investigated five ar eas and learnt much that was new about the site. as well as establishing thatthe cycleways and footpaths proposed by the council could be built with minimum

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the stone cistern or

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damage to this important archaeological site.

On the southern side of the site. closest to the housing. we explored two areas of what were probably gardens located between the main Roman buildings and the boundary wall found in 1996 when building works first revealed parts of the site.

On the slope of the hill towards StAndrew's Ridgeweemptied part of a trench dug by Thames Water before the importance of the site was known. In the sides of their trench we found Roman archaeology 1 metre deep. This represents the infilling of the course of a stream

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nymphaeum (water shrine) found in 1996 our trench demonstrated that the cycleway would not damage significant archaeology here, one of the few areas where the cycleways and footpaths will have to be cut into the ground.

The trench only produced modern finds, with a glass medicine bottle conveniently located in the face of the trench at its deepest point. What was of interest were the origins of the gully that the cycleway will follow.

It seems probable that it was an early stream course from a time when the springs rose higher up the hill. This is important to our understanding of the site as it explains how the stone cistern or nymphaeum would have been supplied with water, as currently the springs rise further down the slope.

Much to our surprise our fifth trench on the western side of the site was the most interesting. In it we found a well-built stone culvert, similar to those found in 1996, and

by Time Team. However, whereas the earlier discoveries were Roman. ours was late medieval or later as it overlay a feature that produced the late medieval button.

Despite the presence of the culvert, the steps that are proposed for this area can be built without

damaging it, due to the constructi on method that will be employed.

We had visits from several local schools who were shown the site

and had the archaeological process explained to them by team members. There were over 500 other visitors during the course of the excavation and over 800 during the two days that Time Team were on site for 'The Big Dig'.

Over the National Archaeology Days weekend, more than 230 people took part in site tours and viewed an exhibition of finds and information about earlier work on the site.

We hope to put on a similar exhibition in the library at the North Swindon District Centre in the Spring.

Many local people returned regu-

larly to see progress and at least one gentleman visited the site virtually every day to see how we were getting on.

We hope to come back next year and do a project that members of the community can be involved with, although the scale and nature are still to be agreed.

Further information on the project can be found on the English Heritage web-site: www.englishheritage.org.uk , which will be updated as we learn more over the coming months.

Spruce up for Lydiard playground

Spiders. scorpions. mantis and many more fascinating insects are on display in our mini beast

Studley Grange Garden and Leisure Park Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9QT

that still runs on the site and produced a selection of Roman finds including pottery, tile and a single coin, as well as a Neolithic flint scraper dating to sometime in the period 4,500 to 2,500 BC. At the top of the hill next to

Other attractions at Studley Grange include: • Craft Village.

• Blooms Garden Centre • World of Water r.• Pet Shed • Bonkers children's soft play a area

The ever popular but deteriorating play equipment at Lydiard Park is benefiting from the 'Spruce up Swindon' campaign.

Swindon Council undertook some repair work at the end of the summer holidays and has put in an order to replace damaged equipment including the exciting aerial runway.

Cabinet lead member for Cultural Services and Recreation coun Justin Tomlinson. said, "we have reassessed our budget to target resources where it will be seen most. Lydiard Park is one of Swindon's top play venues and it's excellent news for the many children who use the equipment."

Sadly this year has been one of the worst forvandalism in the park, with picnic benches destroyed and paint being dawbed all over the walls of the visitor centre.

Damon Twine and Hailey Lewis trying out the repaired balance swing with coun Tomlinson. Colin Thurman and Ian Spiers from Swindon Services and Bill Fisher. Acting Deputy Director of Swindon Services

21

Swindon Wide North Swindon sculpture decision delayed The spectacular steel and glass sculpture proposed for Junction 1 on Thamesdown Drive featured in the September Link was supposed to go before Swindon Council's planning committee on 22 September but was withdrawn so that slight design modifications could be made to the proposals. The plans will now go before councillors in October or early November.

Several hundred people viewed the plans for the sculpture in the Haydon Centre and the North Swindon Library during September.

They were displayed alongside aerial photographs of the area taken by The Link.

The sculpture designed by London based architects Softroom has been commissioned by the developers building 5.500 homes at Priory Vale.

If the plans are passed it would act as a landmark at the gateway and exit of the town between Thamesdown Drive and Cricklade Road. Made of steel, the three sided curved design captures the sweeping lines of Junction 1 as seen from the air.

Illuminated glass panels set into the steel makes references to the

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Swindon Artscape Manager Celia Yeoman said the exhibition had been agreatsuccess. although there was some initial confusion as to who was paying for the work. " Once it was made clear that the developers are meeting the cost of the sculpture, the clear majority of people expressed support for it.

The modern, forward looking design struck a chord; many people think the sculpture would create a new image for Swindon."

However, she said that about ten per cent of comments were negative. "Some people said they did not li ke the work without giving a specific reason, whilst others cannot accept that a private company is going to pay for it and want the money invested in schools or social services, which is not an option." www.prioryvale.com

•

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Sunday 26th October 11am - 4pm Swindon Marriott Hotel Pipers Way. Old Town, Swindon • Over 40 wedding exhibitors • FREE show entry • Bridal competitions For further information, visit the website www.wedding -fayre.co.uk or call (01793) 840000

H r'

Music By

Andrew Lloyd Webber Ly rics by

Tim Rice

Local farmers and producers will be flooding into the town centre for Swindon's Harvest Market to celebrate British Food Fortnight on: Council and Wiltshire Food Links.

For details. call Cath Rice, SwinSaturday 4 October. 9am to 5pm Sunday50ctoberllamto4pm. don Sustainability Officer for Wilt. shire Wildlife Trust on 526244 or Stalls along Canal Walk and mail: crice@wiltshire wildlife.org Wharf Green will be laden with food showcasing the best from the fields and kitchens of the local countryside and farms. Jams, juices. pies. plants. vegetables. A three day beerfestival organised fi sh, honey. sausages, eggs. beef, by the Campaign for Real Ale pork. cheese, cakes... there will (CAMRA) in the former Railway be something to suit everyone's Museum in Faringdon Road will tastes and shopping baskets. serve the best in beers on: This is also the chance to meet • Thursday 16October, 7pmto 11 pm the producers of all this bounty • Friday 17 October, 12noon to who will be happy to answer ques3pm: 7pm to 11 pm ti ons or offer advice about their • Saturday 18 October, 12noon to goods.

3pm; 7pm to 11 pm Face painters, musicians and Friday 3 October. 9am to 5pm

Beerex will bring together 40 brews

animals from Roves Farm will also be an attraction on Saturday and Sunday. and a dietician will be on hand during Saturday to offer free advice on food and healthy eating.

The event is organised by a partnership which includes Swindon

Forty different real ales and ciders will be on tap. along with food and music.

Entry for the Friday evening session is by ticket in advance. Pay on the door at other times.

Call 520592 for details.

23rd Oct - Ist Nov `03 Tickets

from £9

WYVFR\ 'THFATRF THEATRE SQUARE. SH1 DO\ BOX OFFICE: II79i 524481

1

22

Swinckr Wide Next stop Moulden Hill. Railway Society celebrates anniversary in style

The Mayor of Swindon coun Derek Benfield waved the green flag which sent a steam engine on tracks laid across a newly restored bridge as the Swindon and Cricklade Railway Society staged a weekend of events to celebrate its 25th anniversary on 20 and 21 September. The society is planning more significant developments over the next few years as it lays track towards Moulden Hill country park, at the southern end of Thamesdown Drive, where a station is proposed, opposite Taw Hill.

The engine set in stoppea running two years motion by the mayearlier. or's flag on the SatIn all, three engines were urday was Great in steam during the weekWestern Railway's end, the first time the socinumber 7903, Foreety has been able to marke Hall, restored present more than two. over 18 years of hard Saturday's activities took work by society volplace before a gathering of unteers. invited guests and on SunIt was a special ocday George Martin of casion for member Beatles fame led the honDennis Kelly who ours. spent time on the Jeff Austin, chairman footplate of this enand chief engineer, reSwindon & Cricklade Railway Society members getting ready gine during his workgarded the occasion as for the Mayor's visit, from left. Dale Young. Marc Bye. Alec ing life. marking major achieveBrown, Ian Matthews by laying the first sleepers on the bridge The bridge across close to Blunsdon Station, for nearly forty years ments by the society. "We the River Ray was rebelieve this is a monumenstored by the society Below: enjoying a visit to the railway Bethan Lawrence. Mair tal event commemorating Lawrence, Alice Telling, Joshua Telling, Chris Matthews at a cost of ÂŁ35.000.

25 years of success," he The engine, whose said. "It represents a lot of sister. Hagley Hall' can be hard work put in by members seen at the Great Western not only on the physical side but Designer Outlet Centre on also in raising the necessary former railway land in funds. We are now looking forRodbourne Road. was the ward to progressing towards first to make the crossing Mouldon Hill." since 1963 when the SwinPlanning permission for this don and Cricklade Railway next stage of development has ended its commercial life. already been received and the Passenger trains had society will be laying ballast

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along the track later in the year.

Residents of Taw Hill should see steam rising to the west on the other side of Thamesdown Drive by the middle of 2004.

The society is always looking for additional assistance via voluntary effort or through donations. Anyone able to help should contact Jeff on 726807 or Russell Wear on 692588.

The world of science on our doorstep From October to December museums, galleries, libraries and archives across the South West of England will be hosting the region's first Diversity Festival Locally the Science Museum Wroughton will be celebrating how diverse cultures have contributed to the development of science, technology and engineering during an Open Weekend on Saturday 18 October and Sunday 19 October.

Details of opening times and free transportfrom the STEAM Museum can be found below.

is

This GREENDOWN Bigger means better

By Headteacher Steve O'Sullivan You may have noticed by visits to the school or through the media that there have been momentus changes going on at Greendown.

Work began on the internal reorganisation and new buildings costing £3 million in January and whilst there has been disruption, the investment in West Swindon's secondary school by Swindon

Borough Council will all be worth it in the long run.

The facilities on offer at the school will be outstanding and will clearly enhance the teaching, learning and social environment for all pupils.

It is a very exciting time for the school and everyone is looking forward to taking full advantage of the extra space and new resources on offer.

It will give us great pleasure to show them off to prospective pupils and their parents when we welcome you to

The changes at Greendown: • new multi-purpose hail for PE, assemblies and examinations; • five additional ICT computer rooms and a state-of-the-art computer network; • a new resource centre/library with 500 new books purchased for the start of the school year; • a new Learning Support Unit to

enable staff to work with pupils in small groups and one-to-one; • new teaching areas for English, Maths, Modern Foreign Languages, Business Studies and Humanities; • a new sprung floor dance studio with floor to ceiling mirrors; • new catering and dining fa-

cilities - see over; • complete refurbishment of an existing dining area for the exclusive use of Years 7 and 8.

• a new science laboratory; • new visitor reception area.

All of the changes have been designed to improve still further the curriculum opportunities for all the pupils that attend the school. For instance, the new ICT facilities will enable pupils to begin their ICT GCSE course in Year 9, whilst the mobile units of computers linked to a wireless network will allow pupils to use ICT in almost any room whenevei needed.

Our aim is to provide pupil: with the skills that are needed tc use information technology to in best advantage and also give pupils the means of obtaining

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nings on 22 and 23 October.

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GCSEs at the end of Year 10, a full year before most generally sit the exams.

Our primary aim as a school is to provide the very best education to young people and prepare them for life beyond school.

This is Greendown â&#x20AC;˘ 2

Greendown bucks national trend in GCSEs 2003 may have been a year in which national GCSE results dipped slightly, but not at Greendown where results rose again.

Of the Year 11 pupils who sat their exams in May/June, nearly 57 per cent gained five or more GCSE passes at grades A* - C, nearly 3 per cent more than last year. It is pleasing that many more pupils passed at the top grades of A or A* with a significant number finding that all their passes were at these top grades.

Amongst them were Matthew Fidler, Sandish Benning, John Heavens, Robyn Boosey, Helen Scarisbrick, Daniel Hill, Ben Morris and Laura Jones.

There were outstanding results

from Anna Hirsch-Holland, who came in the top five nationally out of 70,000 candidates in Technology â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Resistant Materials and Natalie Hughes, who came in the top five nationally out of nearly 380,000 candidates in English Literature.

Mr O'Sullivan sends his congratulations to all staff who helped the Year 11 pupils to such excellent achievements and well done to the pupils. We wish them all the best in the future.

Some of our 2003 GCSE achievers, from left, John Heavens, Ben Morris, Anna Hirsch-Holland, Natalie Hughes, Matt Fidler, Robyn Boosey, Naomi Clemo, Dan Hill

Oxford honour for Greendown graduate a

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Everybody's favourite subject at the top of our agenda Greendown is rising to the government's challenge for more schools in England and Wales to achieve specialist school status' by preparing to bid to become a Maths and Computing College.

This will give the school an even greater ability to develop opportunities for the pupils.

A greater range of Maths courses are being planned and an extension of the already excellent computing facilities will allow further GCSEs and a greater

range of opportunities for pupils who will be using ICT in their careers.

The whole community will benefit through sharing the facilities. Courses will be run that will cover topics as diverse as basic numeracy, maths for busi-

Business backing for work related curriculum 'Crafty Crew' is a company formed by a group of Year 10 pupils last year to produce collectable ceramics, bird boxes and candles as part in the work related curriculum.

Professional business advice was received from RichardJames who works for Nationwide and Keith Butler, finance director at Fish Brothers Group.

Run as a company with pupils as shareholders benefitting from profits made from selling their products, members put on three successful trade fairs at the West Swindon Centre.

The pupils are continuing to develop their project during Year 11 and current Year 10 pupils are to launch two further enterprises.

Members of Crafty Crew show off their products to business advisors Richard James, left, and Keith Butler, centre

ness, getting the best from your computer, web design and many more.

Local prima ry schools will have use of the facilities and have the oppo rt unity to share the school's expe rt ise. Clubs and organizations in the communi ty will also have access to the facilities and expertise.

Greendown is seeking sponsorship for the project and would welcome interest from the business community. For details, contact Mrs Sarjent or Mr Denley on 874224.

Teachers at Greendown were delighted to learn of Sarah Franklin's success at New College where she gained four grade As in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemist ry to gain a place at Oxford University.

Sarah left Greendown in 2001 and will attend Pembroke College, following in the footsteps of former pupil Emma Kingston from Grange Park who went to Pembroke in 1998.

Celebrating success all through the school Pupils throughout the school were awarded prizes and certificates in the end of year assembly in July for academic performance. full attendance, personal achievements in class work and sporting results.

Grant Johnson, Charlotte Roberts, Kim Fraser, Adam Woodley, Danielle Wedmore, Bradley Watts with their certificates

This is Greendown â&#x20AC;˘ 3

Greendown aims for Michelin star as quality catering comes to school As part of the `new look' Greendown, great effo rt has been made to improve the catering on offer at the school.

Based on the theo ry that an `army marches on its stomach' the school has entered into a long term partnership with Star Catering to provide nutritious and tasty meals for the pupils and staff.

As part of the internal building

modifications, the Len Hobbs community suite and the old gym have been combined to form one spacious dining hall, furnished in a contemporary s ty le, with a brand new kitchen.

The changes have been given the thumbs up by pupils in the first few weeks of term, for both the bold decor and college s ty le canteen arrangement, as well as the delicious food provided by Star.

Primary liaison: building strong links with our partners in education Greendown is committed to working closely with teachers in our nine partner primary schools to develop close links in all areas of the curriculum and to make the transition from one phase of education to another as easy as possible for children.

An example of this work is a project in Februar y this year when.

Prima ry liaison teacher Angela Proctor with children and staff from Freshbrook School, and Gordon Dickinson and Toni Robinson

guided by two artists in residence Toni Robinson and Gordon Dickinson of `No Added Sugar', 500 Year 6 primary children created large scale permanent pieces of art in the style of great artists.

Each primary school group spent a day at Greendown working with Year 10 pupils from Greendown. thus getting used to the school's environment and being with older pupils.

The art works were exhibited at the West r^'?

Swindon Library and t _ are now on display in the primary schools.

Some of the large t paintings also hang , in the new dinin area, right, thus gi g -ing the Year 7 pupil s e entering Greendown an immediate connection with the school.

Euro trip takes in moving images, University awareness for Year 9 Forty-five Year 9 pupils spent a day at the University of Bath in May seeing what life as a university student is like.

They started off with a science lecture from Dr Peter Ford. right, who demonn , t n strated some of the proper'^ â&#x20AC;˘^ #' ties of liquid nitrogen â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a brilliant material that does some very strange things to even the most basic of materials and items. Unfortunately school science labs are prevented from using it.

After lunch in one of the many and a poster making activity lookcafes pupils were given a tour of ing at the aspects of university the campus by student ambassalife. dors. This included accommodaBath University liaison officer tion, a look at some of the social Mrs Newly ended the afternoon facilities like the clubs and bars, by congratulating the Greendown the shops, student radio station pupils as some of the best that and a glimpse of a few of the they had had on a visit. many fantastic sporting facilities All the pupils were impressed available, with what university life had to The afternoon finished up with offer and many are now inspired a question and answer session to gain the qualifications required with the student ambassadors to secure a place.

science, linguistics and lots of fun In May 2003, thirty Greendown pupils and teachers visited one of the most popular tourist attractions in France: Futuroscope, park of the moving image, situated just outside the pret ty historic town of Poitiers and housed in spectacular futuristic buildings.

Pupils were amazed by the fantastic buildings housing a whole variety of cinemas. There are four different Imax screens, cinema in the round, 3D screens, a planetarium, cinemas with moving seats, a cinema with a glass screen beneath the audience's feet and many others all giving a totally different ty pe of cinematic experience.

The exquisite and frequently breath-taking photography captivated the pupils and teachers, giving them the oppo rtuni ty to try out each and then revisit their favourite screens. In the evening the group was able to see a laser, light

and firework show. The park also offers some typical theme park amusements, and souvenir shops with a difference featuring laser technology and the science of light.

All instructions and information was in French providing pupils with lots of opportunities to practice and improve their language skills. Although the less confident could listen to translations, using the ear-phones provided, most preferred to listen to the commentaries in French.

On the Saturday afternoon of the trip the group visited Poitiers to see the romanesque cathedral. the fruit, flower and vegetable market and the pedestrian shopping centre, finding lots of suitable presents to bring home.

All agreed that Futuroscope is great fun and very stimulating and everyone looks forward to a return visit next year.

This is Greendown • 4

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Could this be a plot for a new reality TV show?

Adam Pontipee wakes up one day, looks around at the mess he and his brothers live in and decides right there and then that he needs to get himself a wife. By sundown the task is complete and the unsuspecting Milly arrives at the remote mountain farmhouse.

Thus begins a tale of frontier life in the American Wild West, as portrayed in a witty, well acted romp Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

by Lawrence Kasha and David Landay performed in February 2003.

Highlights included a barn dance that became a brawl; the kidnapping of 6 brides and a young brother standing up for what he believes in.

The costumes were colourful, the music wonderfully performed and the acting was believable throughout. The musical was directed by drama teacher Nancy Heath with musical directors Louise Willimott and Chloe Jones.

Coming together for charity Pupils at Greendown are very committed to working for charity in their own time. Red Nose Day in February raised over £,1,600 and £150 was raised at break time tuck shops during Fairtrade Fortnight in March.

Some of the pupils who sold Fair Trade products, from left, Sadie Jones, Karla Dixon, Shanice Swaby, Shaniece Laing, Fiona Shorter

Dance event live Eighty boys and girls from all year groups choreographed and danced their way to success in Dance 2003.

All three nights of the show in March were sold out to parents and friends before the doors opened.

Pupils are already working out their routines for Dance 2004.

Developing our champions

Summer holiday fun

A very successful sports presentation evening on 17 July at the Winners' Bar at Swindon Town FC brought together 250 pupils, parents, teachers and governors to celebrate individual and team successes and commitment across a wide range of sports.

Guest speaker England rugby player Suzie Appleby gave a motivational speech and presented awards in a variety of categories, including sports persons of the year in Years 7 to 10, commitment to sport and improver of the year.

There were also awards for individual sports, as well as a 'PE teacher wannabe' and commitment to captaincy.

The formal part of the evening organised by the PE department was followed by a buffet and disco.

This second sports presentation evening sets the scene for young people to develop their talents and for children coming up to Greendown in the future.

The Great Escape Summer School was run for the second successful year from 28 July to 8 August.

Forty children aged between 8 and 13 years from a variety of primary and secondary schools took part in sports including football, hockey, netball, rounders, cricket, athletics and gymnastics plus a few new games such as tag rugby and Danish longball. All the children enjoyed taking part despite the hot weather.

PE teacher Chris Dobbs, who organised the summer school said, "it was good to see so many young people taking part. They learnt the value of fair play, team work and pulling together."

Suzie Appleby with year year group sports achievers, from left, Sam Dell, Matthew Beaumont-Farrell, Robert Hotson, Kerrie Keene, Lauren Rogers, Freya Keene, Hayley Chivers

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

27

Swindon Wide Music Wednesday 1st, 7.30pm Harlem Gospel Choir world tour 2003. Some of the finest singers and musicians from the Black churches in Harlem. £13.50. Wyvern Thursday 2nd, 7.30pm The Elvis Collection. Re-live the raw excitement of an Elvis concert as the band faithfully recreate the Presley magic. £12.50. Wyvern Friday 3rd, 7.30pm The Syd Lawrence Orchestra.. £14.

Wyvern Saturday 4th, 7.30pm A Family Affair. Arts Centre manager Clarry Bean appears in concert with his family, Christine, Dan and Abby, to raise funds for the auditorium refurbishment. programme includes jazz. ballads, soul and musical theatre. £7. Arts Centre Saturday 4th, 7.30pm Prom Night with Swindon Pegasus Brass and friends. £8. Wyvern Sunday 5th, 7.30pm Nashville Nights and Dixie Days.

The best of country music by The Nashville Nights all Star Band and Singers. £11. Wyvern Friday 10th. 7.30pm They Sold A Million. starring The Bachelors and Susan Maughan, hosted by Craig Douglas. From £10.

Wyvern Saturday 11th, 7.30pm Symphony Bournemouth Orchestra with conductor Paul Daniel. Weber: Overture. Ruler of the Spirits: Mendelssohn Symphony No. 4 (Italian) and Dvorak Cello Concerto. From £13.50. Wyvern Tuesday 14th, 7.30pm Lindisfarne. Contemporary acoustic rock. £15. Arts Centre Wednesday 15th, 7.30pm Mercury - Queen `The legend lives on'. £15. Wyvern Friday 17th October, 7.30pm Beyond The Barricade - a concert tribute to the best of West End and Broadway shows. From £14.50.

Wyvern Saturday 18th, 7.30pm Daniel Smith's Blues Band. Daniel mixes stomping barrelhouse boogiewoogie with rhythmic New Orleans material and cool, classy jazz blues grooves. £8.50. Arts Centre Monday 20th, 8pm Hazel O'Connor. To co-incide with the release of her 'best of' album, 'Singular Collection . Hazel O'Connor returns to perform with Irish harpist, Cormac De Barra. £10. Arts Centre Wednesday 22nd to Sat 1 Nov Jesus Christ Superstar presented

by SALOS. From £10. Wyvern Thursday 23rd, 8pm Bob Bowles. Popular local musician, Bob Bowles. joins with a band of well established musicians to play blues and rock favourites. £7. Arts Centre

Friday 24th, 8pm Swindon Recital Series 10th Anniversary. Nicholas Daniel (oboe) and Paul Turner (piano). A much requested return to Swindon for this world-class oboist. renowned for his virtuoso and expressive playing. £9.

Arts Centre. To book call 612775 Saturday 25th, 8pm Swindon Recital Series 10th Anniversary. Nigel Cliffe (baritone) and Paul Turner (piano). A rare opportunity to hear a live performance of Schubert's Winterreise with a brief explanation of the text and musical ideas. £9. Arts Centre. To book call 612775

Now Under New Management NINE ELMS PUB Old Shaw Lane, Shaw New Dining Menu For October Following the success of our new dining menu at the Nine Elms. both new and old customers have highly recommended our quality fresh cuisine. Due to popular demand we have a new menu. coupled with themed nights throughout October.

Examples of ou r new menu Starters Butterfly King Pawns Scallops wrapped in Parma Ham Moines Marinere

Sunday 26th, 8pm Swindon Recital Series 10th Anniversary. Philip Moore and Simon Crawford-Phillips (piano duet).

Their programme will feature Schubert Sonata in B flat and works

by Mozart. Mendelssohn, Schumann and Ravel. £9. Arts Centre. To book call 612775 Wednesday 29th, 8pm Dean Friedman. An outstanding singer-songwriter, Dean's recent albums confirm that the hallmark wry sophistication and touching insight of his creative talent has not diminished. £15. Arts Centre Thursday 30th, 7.30pm Richard Durrant and Herbie Flowers. One of the world's best known bass players, Herbie Flowers and classical soloist and composer ofTVandfilmmusic. RichardDurrant. with a repertoire which blends the original with the familiar. £10. Arts Centre

CLEOPATR1A

Workshop

c5°c creme de 1i crcmc

Saturday 11th, 10am to 4pm Pop into Print. Take a fresh look at the alphabet in print and collage using patterned and textured papers to create vibrant images. £23. Arts Centre

Mains Beef Wellington Pun fried monkfish with citrus Cous Cous Butternut chestnut and Panchetta risotto Desserts Toffee surprise Deep fried ice cream Chocolate raspberry fondant pudding We look forward to you sampling our extensive and frequentl y changing lounge and bar ntenu.s.

Call now to book a table on 01793 770442 WHAT'S ON IN OCTOBER? h

Pizza Night 4` October Karaoke 25"' October

is

60 Night 18" October Hallo«ecn Partly 1'' November

Elite designer doll collections for collectors or the ultimate gift for your loved one

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Venues The Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Cineworld. Greenbridge Tel: 420710 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 National Monuments Record Centre. Kemble Drive. Tel: 414600 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Blunsdon.

Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481 West Swindon Library Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Confirm date, time and price with

the venue

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Browse through our on-line catalogue:

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28

Line Dance

PARKING

with

CENTRAL SWINDON Annual long stay parking from only £58.08 per month Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793 - 690600

Midnight Cowboys Even Swindon Community Centre Jennings Street off Rodbourne Road

Tuesdays Beginners 7.00 to 10.00 Intermediates 7,45 to 10.00 Regular socials in Highworth and Swindon

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ilk your partner in business

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Hucke Belinda Ch'ng Luis Civit Joseph Ribkoff Doris Streich Alterna Solola Mamut

26 Wood Street Old Town, Swindon Tel: 513196

Film Thursday 9th, 7.45pm Nicholas Nickleby (PG) £4. Wyvern Monday 13th, 7.30pm Sing-a-long Wizard of Oz. £13.

Wyvern Wednesday 15th, 7.45pm Son of the Bride (15) A stressed Argentinean restauranteur finds his life turned round after a heart attack and a chance reunion with a childhood friend. SFS Thursday 16th, 7.45pm Hope Springs (12A) £4. Wyvern Wednesday 22nd, 7.45pm The Man on the Train (12A) Johnny Hallyday plays a mysterious tough guy who warily befriends a kindly retired teacher in a provincial French town. SFS Monday 27th & Tues 28th, 7.45pm Far From Heaven (12A) Julianne Moore and Denis Quaid star as the seemly contented suburban couple. £4. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) All films are shown at the Arts Centre: tickets are notsold in advance; society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre: join when purchasing tickets.

Comedy

G wdcoe O4ne James Butcher Housing Association provides a wide choice of quality, affordable housing for those in retirement in the Swindon area.

Tel: 01672 515622 www.jbha.co.uk

James Butcher Housing Association Providing accommodation throughout the central and south of England.

A charity, incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society No. 16602 R.

Tuesday 14th, 8pm The Pub Landlord with Al Murray Giving it both Barrels. £16.50. Wyvern Thursday 16th, 8pm Danny Bhoy. Danny's engaging persona. razor sharp mind and stunning off the cuff material makes him one of the most sought after performers around. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 18th October, 8pm Dave Gorman's Googlewhack Adventure. £16.50. Wyvern

Theatre Thursday 9th to Sat 11th, 7.30pm Popcorn by Ben Elton. presented by Old Town Theatre Company.

Contains strong language and themes of sex and violence. £5. Arts Centre Friday 17th, 8pm Lear's Daughters. What happened to Lear's three daughters before they appeared in Shakespeare's classic?

This production uses music, painting. sculpture and video as it connects young contemporary British Chinese girls' lives with the passions and aspirations of Lear's daughters. £9 Arts Centre Friday 31st & Saturday 1st November, 7.30pm Me Memba Wen (I remember when) presented by Black History Month Group. An evening of song and drama portraying some of the early memories of the black community in Swindon. £5. Arts Centre

Exhibitions Highworth Council Community Rooms. Market Square, High Street From Friday 24th Highworth Artists Exhibition.

STEAM From Saturday 18th The Guild of Railway Artists Exhibition An annual show of work depicting railway scenes past and present in various media, by Britain's leading railway artists. Normal admission charges to museum Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Abstracts An exploration of a challenging selection of works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art, looking at the construction and deconstruction of pictures, colour, shape and inspiration behind them.

North Swindon Library Roadside Landscapes Swindon photographer Neil Holden captures scenes within 20 miles of the town.

West Swindon Library Photographs by Neil Holden Burgh Island and Paris Arts Centre until Saturday 18th Alphabet by Peter Blake 26 screen prints illustrating the letters of the alphabet in the National Touring Exhibition organised by the Hayward Gallery for the Arts Council of England. Also at Great Western Hospital (Mon - Fri, 6pm - 8pm: Sat & Sun, 10am - 6pm) Wyvern, Harlequin Bar Tuesday 7th to Friday 31st John Hodder & Samuel Lindup Swindon College's first BA Fine Art graduates show their drawings. Part of The Big Draw.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery From Saturday 18th A Child's Eye-View A hands-on display with things to do, stories to tell, objects to touch and boxes to open.

Arts Centre From Tuesday 21st See Through Drawing Artists show how drawing aids observation, communication and creativity and, above all, gives pleasure.

Talks & Tours Saturday 18th, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monuments Record Centre. An introduction to the work of the NMRC. Free. To book a place call 414797 Tuesday 21st, 7.30pm An Audience with Ann Widdecombe. The politician and novelist answers questions and shares anecdotes in conversation with political commentator lain Dale. £12.50. Arts Centre

Cr in Oct6ber Family events and children's activities Wednesday 1st, 10am to 12.30pm Fun on the farm for young children and their parents or carers. Follow the nature trail, feed the hens, collect eggs, seasonal art and craft work.

Free but book a place on 771080.

Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 4th, 10.30am to 12.30pm or 2pm to 4pm Make your Name. Use the letters of your name to create a collage in pattern and glitter. For age 8 and over. £6/session. Arts Centre Saturday 18th, 10am to 12.30pm or 1.30pm to 4pm Touch, taste, hear and draw. Tingle your taste buds,listen to sounds,feel strange objects and try to draw all of these senses. For age 8 and over. £6/session. Arts Centre Saturdays 4th & 18th Meet the Railway Workers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers as they bring stories of the steam age to life with practical demonstrations and accounts of their experiences. STEAM. Normal admission charges Saturday 18th Model Railway Magic. Model railway layouts will be set up alongside GWR 'giants'. STEAM. Normal admission charges Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th Diversity Festival. Celebrating the relationships between science and the arts from different cultural perspectives. Science Museum Wroughton. See advert on page 22 Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th Woodcycle. From trees and forests, to papermaking and recycling.

Workshops, demonstrations and exhibitions. Science Museum Wroughton. See advert on page 22 Saturday 25th, 2pm - 4pm Diwali - Festival of Lights. For ages 5 to 11. Celebrate Diwali and learn about its origins and traditions. Make Diwas, rocket collages, lanterns, mendhi and rangoli patterns. £2/child, booking advised. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 25th to Sunday 2 Nov Hallowe'en Horrors! For ages 5 to 11. Can you find the Halloween beasties lurking in the museum. 60p/ child. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 25th to Sunday 2 Nov Spooky Spider Trail! For ages 5 to 11. Search the house for its smaller visitors. £1.30/child (includes admission). Lydiard House Mon 27th to Fri 31st, 10am to 3pm Half Term Open Days. Science Museum Wroughton. See page 22 Tuesday 28th, 2pm - 4pm Hallowe'en Masks For ages 5 to 11.

Make really spooky Hallowe'en masks. £2/child, booking advised.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

29 Wednesday 29th or Thursday 30th 10.30am to 3.30pm Half Term Autumn Activities.A global theme with cooking. crafts and games from around the world.

The day will finish with campfire and stories. £12, to book call 771080.

Lower Shaw Farm Friday 31st, 6.30pm to 8pm The Enchanted Forest. Follow the clues on a spooky Hallowe'en walk around Lydiard House and Park, meet interesting characters and take part in craft activities. £1/child. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult, wear warm clothes. In association with the Swindon Ranger Service and Forest cafe.

Friday 31st, 6pm to 8.30pm Halloween Ghost Train; diesel traction. Blunsdon Station. Swindon & Cricklade Railway. For details call 771615

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Dance

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Tuesday 7th, 8pm Polar Sequences. Renowned for its visionary approach to innovative work, Random Dance Company takes its dancers' physical capability to an extreme and refreshing frontier. £11/£9. Wyvern Wednesday 8th, 1.30pm Alpha. Presented by Random Dance Company and aimed specifically for 8 to 11 year olds, linking with the Worldwide Fund for Nature, Alpha looks at the effects of technology on the natural world, with breathtaking visuals, stunning music and amazing dance. £5. Wyvern Friday 17th, 8pm The Dance of the Drunken Monk.

An adaptation of the 7th Century farce by King Mahendra Varma, which centres on the drunken antics of a Kapalika monk and his women.

The performance, by Sankalpam, includes a celebration of Swindon Dance's Mugdha 10th anniversary. £8.50. Town Hall Studios Friday 24th, 8pm Elements. An International African and Caribbean Choreographic Collaboration. The contemporary moves of Jamaican dance-hall and urban street culture combine with the vibrant energy of traditional dance. Presented by Koromanti Arts in association with Noyam (Ghana). £8.50. Town Hall Studios Friday 31st, 8pm Physical Elements. Two dance works and oneshortfilm, which combine the excitement of street dance and the eloquence of contemporary. £8.50. Town Hall Studios

Irish Dance with the Shaun Michael Band Saturday 25th, 8pm to 12.30am In aid of The Moloney School of Irish Dancing, Thistle Hotel. £10. Call 642368 for tickets

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30

Swindon Wide Canal renovation success

Two concerts featuring the Kentwood Choir

Swindon Mayor coun Derek Benfield and Mayoress Pam Benfield ceremonially opened a restored section of the Wilts and Berks Canal by taking a short cruise in late August.

The £350,000 project started five years ago with a Heritage Lottery Fund grant brought together the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust, Swin don Council and the Great West ern Community Forest to restore a kilometre of canal between Beavan's Bridge and Kingshill. The bridge was totally reconstructed by volunteers Ron and Billy Robertson.

The Rushy Platt nature area was created with a new pond. board walk and wildlife interpretation boards. Closeby, next to the Rushy Platt housing development, is a park and children's play area.

The Mayorsaid he was delighted to see the canal restored. "Asa boylrememberplayingwargames in the Front Garden, close to the canal. The wildlife conservation area, which we knew as the bog, was a great place to find slow worms and adders. One bad winter we could walk on the frozen canal as far as Albion Street. We used to cut down trees for the fire and pull them along the ice."

He added the canal had been a lovely place for courting and he had enjoyed romantic walks along the towpath with Pam. The 52 mile long Wilts and Berks

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The Haydon Wick Bowls Club starts its season of winter concerts with a performance by the Kentwood Choir.

Sheila Harrod's highly regarded songsters appear on Saturday 11 October, 7.30pm. Tickets at £5 or £4.50 concessions, are available from the centre, tel 706666 or from Barry Smith on 722972.

Sheila Harrod is also presenting Kentwood The Show from Tuesday 18 November to Saturday 22 November, 7.30pm at the Wyvern Theatre. Tickets are on sale now.

Call the box office on 524481.

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' Canal was built between Semington, near Melksham, on the Kennet and Avon Canal, and Abingdon on the River Thames via Swindon.

The Great Western Railway took business away from the canals and it effectively closed in 1901.

The aim of the trust is to restore the canal as a navigable route which will bring considerable economic benefits to the area through tourism.

CONSERVATORIES WINDOWS & DOORS

Tea Dances return to the Link Centre on Tuesdays from 7 October, 2pm to 4pm.

Nell and George King will be leading Ballroom. Latin and Sequence dancing with tea, coffee and biscuits. For ticket details call 445566.

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Peatmoor Over 50's next meets on 9 October. 10am to 1 1.30am at Peatmoor Community Primary School. Newcomers are always welcomed.

Tootleabrook WI meets on Wednesday 15 October at Toothill Community Centre, 7.30pm, when Elly Beintwill demonstrate making sugar flowers.

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Kedline F_Xtrc^rne 17ri.,, tke Er•e.n, - r xp,)nd i j o ^- N4in 'i _ r t i

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31

Swindon Wide Building the Polish Connection.....

As Mayor of Swindon last year one of my most enjoyable moments, together with Kevin Small the then Leader of the Council, was signing a Friendship and Co-operation Agreement with the historic city of Torun in Poland, writes Councillor Stan Pajak.

The link which follows the town's existing twinning arrangements with Salzgitter in Germany and Ocotal in Nicaragua marks not only a marvellous opportunity at an educational, community, cultural and business level. but also a celebrati on of the Polish people connecti on that has existed in our town since the war.

The great astronomer Nicholas Copernicus was born in Torun in 1 473. His momentous work De revolutionibus was published in 1 543 and mentioned that he was a native of Torun. thus forever linking to his birthplace his name and the scientific theory of the structure of the universe.

Like Brunel in Swindon his name appears in many guises throughout the city. The Nicholas Copernicus University has a huge 35,000 student population which adds to the culture, not to mention the night life of the place. The possibilities of co-operation with Bath University in Swindon and our colleges is an exciting prospect.

1

Twinning links fortnight Two weeks of formal and celebratory events focussed on

Swindon's twin towns takes place between 4 and 19 October. including an International Citizens' Conference with speakers from across Europe on 10 October.

For details, call Bruce Clarke on 465283 or David Martin on 433055.

WHAT CAN I PUT OUT FOR COLLECTION?

0

0

Newspapers Magazines BT Phone Books 0 2 Catalogues C31 Flyers Z Junk mail

What should not be put out: Card, cereal boxes q X or cardboard packaging Envelopes with plastic windows q x Yellow Pages q X and any non-paper material!

What else do I need to know?

O Please do not over fill the box.

O Please keep the papers as dry as possible by using the lid provided.

O Please do not put papers into plastic bags inside the box.

O If you do not wish to take part please call the number below to arrange for your box to be collected What about other recyclable materials?

These can he taken to the sites in West and North Sn'indon where the code indicates there are collection containers: G = Glass, P = Paper, C = Cans, T = Textiles, B = Books, F = Foil Barnfield Road C.A Site (G, P. C, T) Bridgemead. Sainsbu ry s (G, P. C, T. B. F) Freshbrook Centre (G, T) Haydon Centre (G. P, C, T, B, F); Hayden Wick, Thames Av. (G) Highwo rt h, Eastrop (G, P, C); Highwo rt h, Newburgh Place (G, T) No rt h Swindon District Centre ( G, P. T, F) Ocotal Way, Tescos ( G. P. C. T. B, F) Penhill, Alton Close (G) Toothill Centre (G. P, C, T) West Swindon District Centre ( G, P, C, T, B, F)

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Later this year it is hoped to send a delegation from Swindon. made up from representatives from education. business and the community, on an EU funded visit.

Lookup the Torun connection at www.swindontorun.org.uk

make the most of paper by putting it out or collection and recycling.

Torun

city hall

on the agenda.

If your household has received a box .....

Stan, front, Swindon Council's European Officer Daryl Jones and coup Kevin Small Founded in 1233 by the German Teutonic Knights Order, Torun is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. About 120 miles from the capital Warsaw, Torun is located on the Vistula River where ancient trade routes once intersected.

Torun was once one of the most important and wealthy towns in Poland and this is reflected in the preserved historic buildings dating from medieval times. Gothic and baroque architecture greetthe visitor with notable examples such as the town hall, the castle ruins, the churches of Saint John, Our Lady and Saint James. In 1997 Torun won the designation of a World Heritage Site from UNESCO. The continental theme is perfected by outside cafes and bars serving cold beer and food in the cobbled market square. Nearby is the Kopernik shop where Torun's famous gingerbread and honey cakes are sold.

The university's special interest in historic restoration is something perhaps which we could use in the Lydiard Park Project.

With Poland joining the EU in 2004 our link with Torun could not have been better timed particularly as the arrangements we now make are eligible for EU funding.

Drama students from Torun visited us in June, giving a performance at New College. They were present at a ceremony where a Thamesdown Transport bus was named 'Torun - City of Copernicus.'

It was also a chance to sample British culture so Avebury, STEAM, Lydiard Park, Science Museum W roug hton and fish and chips were

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There are ninny other recycling sites across the town.

For more information and also paper collection dates call 463463 trees

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32 The Link Magazine • October 2003 Peatmoor Community Facilities Peatmoor Community Primary School Pepperbox Hill, Peatmoor

reveal the real you at

Slimming World Monday: 6pm & 7.3 St John's Church, Hayden Wick. Nicole,

ASTRO HIRE!

338786

Tuesday: 9.30am & 6pm Toothill Community Centre Sharon. 527332

Floodlit Astroturf football/netball pitch

Tuesday: 6.30pm & 8pm Abbey Meads School Paula. 701442

Available for hire - weekly and weekend slots available Adults £22/hour (£20/hour 6+ bookings) Children £12/hour

Wednesday: 9.30am Crossways Suite, Moonrakers, Cricklade Road. Samantha,

Football Party Packages Saturdays 4.30pm - 6.30pm Use of our floodlit astroturf,

723416

Thursday: 6pm & 7.30pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick. Peter, 764684

coaching, party room, party bags and free invitations

£10 membership. £3.75 a week Phone for special offers

oAiote

For further details, availability and to make a booking call (01793) 881613

'

www.slimming-world.com

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Olympic dream in sight for Shaw sailor Dinghy sailor Ross Harvey from Shaw continues to make excellent progress towards his goal of a professional sailing career and future Olympic selection. / ' Now 17, Ross switched last year from the Laser singlehander to the 420 double^ hander. After a hard winter training and learning the new techniques required for the boat, Ross and his sailing partnerTomMallindinehavebeen achieving considerable success.

They currently sail with the elite Great Britain Youth Squad and consistent performances during the year ensured selection for the British 420 team for the European Championships where they have done well.

They are now competing for a place in the British team for the next World Championships to be

_....

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*

held inJanuary2004in Melbourne during the Australian summer.

Ross has to maintain a high level of fitness and he is grateful for sponsorship from Link advertisers Prime Bodies Fitness Centre at Peatmoor who allow him to train at their superb gym. Other offers of sponsorship are always welcome.

Link helps seal sponsorship deal for FC Abbey Meads

Achie ve Success

After appealing for financial support in the July edition of The Link the Priory Vale consortium of builders have generously agreed to be the main sponsor for the newly formed Under 10's team.

fitness Consultancy '`ILATES CLASSES

Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Monday: 6pm - 7pm; Wednesday: 7.30pm - 8.30pm Taw Hill Worship CentreTuesday: 8pm - 9pm Primebodies Fitness Centre Tuesday: loam - I I am

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Looking good in purple and blue, Lorraine Palmer with the players and coaches, back from left, chairman Dave Mulley, Luke Melville, James Piatek, Jamie Mulley, Jamie Hackeborn, Ben Parkinson, Fraser Berry, manager Jason Hackeborn.

Front Danny Hale, Dale Clark, Joel Prowting, Jack Willoughby, Jack Wells

Club chairman Dave Mulley said that the boys were overjoyed to be able to choose the kit and will be proudly representing Priory Vale in this season's campaign in the North Wilts & District Minors League and tou rn aments.

Treasurer Adam Piatek conveyed a big thank you to the Priory Vale developers for their support and sponsorship and to The Link for cove ri ng the appeal for help.

"Without gestures like these, ventures that benefit the local community like ours would never take off."

Secretary, Tanya Parkinson said that the team had got off to a very good start. They were unfortunate to be knocked out in the semifinals at the Croft Tournament on

game on 7 September.

Lorraine Palmer of Bloor Homes, representing Priory Vale, was keen to present the new kit to the team.

"At Priory Vale we are not just building houses, but creating a whole new community with new schools and sports facilities, plus a village centre with plenty of open space for people to enjoy. That's why we're proud to support FC Abbey Meads and wish them every success for the coming season."

Parents who would like details about the club should contact Jason Hackeborn on 07798 608291. A club website will soon be launched at www.fcabbeymeads.co.uk where the team's progress will be reported.

31 Augustbut won their first league

www.prioryvale.com

The Link Magazine • October 2003

LWeightWatchers WESTLEA SCHOOL Thursday 5.30pm FRESHBROOK CHURCH Wednesday 7pm ST JOHN'S CHURCH, HAYDON WICK Saturday 10am HAYDON CENTRE

Monday 9.30am.

Wednesday 6pm & 7.15pm

Health & Beauty at the De Vere Swindon At the De Vere Health & Beau ty Suite Swindon, we believe in the well-being of our clients, encouraging thento develop their natural health and beau ty. Our professional treatments take a holistic and hygienic approach, ensuring the service is excellent. The Health & Beau ty Suite is open to members and non-members alike, and being open 7 days a weeks ensure you have plen ty of time to pamper yourself.

Discover the new Time To Eat' programme Jessica — St Tropez -^- E'spa

Where's the best place in Swindon to watch world cup rugby?

Keen rugby fans ready and waiting for the kick off for a game in a pub, having bought a drink, are just as likely to see the big screen switched to some insignificant premier league game.

So where's the best place to watch world cup games, where the majority in the crowd will be rugby fans from around the globe?

Let The Link know via rugby

@swindonlink.com . The venues will be posted at www.swindonlink.com

Men@ The Swindon Well Woman Centre at the Health Hydro in Milton Road launch lottery funded lifestyle checks and support sessions for men on Thursdays, 5.30pm to 7.30pm, from 2 October.

On offer are: • body checks: blood pressure, weight, height, urine analysis; • lifest y le checks: advice on eating, smoking, alcohol, exercise; • and the chance to discuss health concerns and the opportunity to talk in confidence about problems linked to family, work or friends.

No appointment is necessary.

The Well Woman Centre can be contacted on 511064.

Carol takes over Fitness instructor Carol Hart from Middleleaze is running three work-out classes following the •^ withdrawal of Bodies by Design from Wes t Swindon.

The sessions take place on: Monday: 7pm to 8pm, Holy Trinity, Shaw Centre; Tuesday: 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Greendown School; Thursday: 7pm to 8pm, Peatmoor Primary School. " Come along to work your thighs, bums, turns and everything in between," says Carol. "You'll feel great and meet new friends."

Turn up or call Carol on 870792.

Call 08457 123 000 for other meetings in the area or visit Meeting Finder at www.weightwatchers.co.uk

33

Health & Beauty Gi ft Vouchers

DE VERE N

De Vere Hotel, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon, SN5 7DW Tel: 01793 878785 Fa'rf l`}1793 8778'22 www.devereswindon.co.uk

34

ON THE ROAD

1711\i1i1i1ifili1i1i1i1iiiii1i17

New map well received

Mobile Auto

The latest edition of the North Swindon map, produced by The Link, was sought after in September.

Maintenance

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Showing the layout of roads that have not been built and streets where people have yet to move in, the map is an essential reference document for the area, It was launched at the North Swindon Library in early September, in conjunction with the exhibition of aerial photographs taken

by The Link and the display of plans for a new sculpture at Junction 1 on Thamesdown Drive.

Library manager Gilli Palmer said lots of people had

come in for copies. "The map is tremendously popular because it's so hard to find your way around North Swindon. It's the only up to date map of the area.”

Copies are also available at the Priory Vale Visitor Centre on Thamedown Drive, West Swindon Library, Swindon Information Centre and Dewhurst Estate Agents.

On yer bike Car Servicing & Repairs SERVICE & REPAIR

Cars - People Carriers - Vans Lorries - Agricultural Vehicles "On-Site Mobile Service" YOUR SPECIALIST VEHICLE Ilk CONDITIONING REPAIRER , rd r^r

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A new map of Swindon featuring all the main cycles routes around the town is now available at libraries and Swindon Information Centre.

Map coordinator Phil Martlew shows off the new map

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36 The Link Magazine • October 2003

Community Association to decide on its future Conservation group at the crossroads Haydon Wick Community Association's postponed Annual General The committee of Seven Fields Conservation Group, despairing at Meeting will now be held on Monday 1 December, 7pm, at the what they see as lack of co-operation from Swindon Council, have Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue. All adult residents of Haydon Wick called an extraordinary special meeting of its supporters to discuss parish are entitled to attend this meeting, when important decisions what they consider to be a make or break situation. about the future will be made.

Committee members fear that if from Pond Street to Whitworth The association recently ended association as a grant making body ; there is a lack of response locally Road has been the subject of much its management of the Haydon with the available money being for the stance they are taking, the criticism. More recently the group Centre - its main activity - and now used to support local good causes group may have to be dissolved, has complained about the failure has various options to consider. In over the next few years.

The conservation group was to remove ragwort, dangerous to Local residents are encouraged formed some 15 years ago to help livestock, before hay was cropped. doing so, members will have to take into account the significant to take an active part in the debate, protect the status of the area beMembers were also upset about financial resources at its disposal. Although further details will be t ween Greenmeadow, Abbey the lack of consultation before trees Amongst the options currently published nearer the date of the Meads and Penhill as a facility for were removed from a hedgerow. under discussion with the Charity meeting, preliminary comments the local residents. The land has A letter to supporters says, 'we fail Commission is to wind up the char- can be sent to the chairman of the been described as an oasis of coun- to see how any group of people ity, with reserves being dispersed association, Brian Holden, c/o tryside in urban north Swindon, could have worked harder as volin one go, or to reconstitute the Haydon Centre. and an important reserve of unteers to preseve the important feature on North Swindon.' biodiversity.

People at the meeting will be Following much effort by group members, local nature reserve sta- asked how the group should carry tus was established in 1995. The on in the current climate.

Local councillors have also been group has been awarded several Worried who will look Lovingly drawn environmental and community in- invited to attend to hear of the after your pet whilst in pastel or volvement awards and recently problems first hand. you're on holiday? pencil from Concerned local residents and won Swindon Council's Agenda Pets At Home all who benefit from using the re21 Quality of Life Award 2002. your favourite However, relations with the serve are encouraged to attend the could be your answer photograph. council have deteriorated badly. meeting on Wednesday 1 October, Pets At Home is a service whicl For a free The way the council was building 7.30pm at the Haydon Wick Parish cares for all your pets (except brochure, call the cycle path over the summer offices in Thames Avenue.

PETS AT HOME

dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

Telephone Sheila Mitchell foi further details on 873062 sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk

Animal Portraits

Vikki Loeber

01793 513536

Cat neutering offer

07799 605045

During October the Swindon Branch of Cats Protection will pay the full cost of spaying and neutering cats over six months old, for owners who are on benefits.

Contact the vet of your choice who will have the appropriate forms.

v.loeber@virgin.net View the gallery at www.vikkiloeber.co.uk

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Saturday

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You can be sure of a total peace of mind service for cats and small animals within your own home (sorry. no dogs).

Contact Helen Murphy Tel: 01793 635498 Mobile: 07798 568462 E-mail: helen.murphy2@ntlworld.com

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The Link Magazine • October 200 3 37

Fire safety top of the agenda

Crime and grime in North Swindon Crim

With the new appointment of Fraser Drummond as Community Fire Safety Officer for Swindon, Wiltshire Fire Brigade is making a big push to promote fire prevention.

What are you going to do about it? asks Jane Dudley Come along on Saturday 11 October, 10am to fpm, to the Haydon Centre where the Swindon Crime & Disorder Team will be launching a NeST (Neighbourhood Safety Team) for Hayden Wick.

Previously an operational firefighter at Stratton, Fraser's role is to deliver, co-ordinate and support the brigade's efforts to reduce preventable fires, deaths and injuries in the Swindon area.

He said the goal of the brigade's Community Fire Safety Unit is to seek reductions over the next five years of dwelling fires by one third, a 40 per cent reduction in fire fatalities and serious fire casualties by 5 per cent year on year. "What we also want to see is a measurable annual improvement in fire safety awareness, attitude and behaviour.

"This will be achieved by speaking to the local community through forums, group meetings, school visits, plus liaison with local media."

He added that Wiltshire Fire Brigade offer a 'Gold Standard' home safety check service. On request, a fire officer will visit a home to provide fire safety advice and assistwith providing a tailor-made home fire action plan. This includes fitting a smoke alarm.

"Our message to the community

—^ g395 AJ0 f

Fraser Drummond with the Community Fire Safety Unit's Honda is prevent, detect, escape," said Fraser. "I would be delighted to visit community groups to discuss how we can work together to achieve greater awareness of fire safety, and I also would welcome calls from individual households who want a home safety check."

Fraser can be contacted at Swindon central fire station on weekdays, 9.30am to 4.30pm or mail: cfs.Swindon@wfb.org.uk

prize of £1,000. All The Prospect Hospice cheques are posted to gives comfort and care to the winners at home so people in our area who there is no need to claim are coping with cancer your prize. and motor neurone disy The very best part of `' . ease. It also cares for their our lottery is that every families and offers supsingle penny of the port in a practical way. profit goes to Prospect We have a team of - your local hospice.

Macmillan nurses who It could not be simpler to join. visit patients in their own homes.

The hospice has a day centre and an All you need to do is complete the in-patient unit, plus physiothera- form below and return it to us pists and a team of volunteers who (Freepost) and we will send you your number within two weeks. do a variety of jobs every day.

So please'makeeach day count,' The Prospect HospiceLottervwas established three years ago to bring for yourself and for Prospect. Let's in regular sustainable income so that see if we can top the response from we can continue thewonderful work Link readers last year who so kindly made a new year's resolution that which goes on every day.

Of course, our lottery members has helped us so very much.

For details of the Prospect Lotalso gain because each week we have 79 prize winners with a top tery, call me on 615870.

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

working to highlight and resolve issues and concerns.

We'll be there, will I you? If you want us to help you with community safety, anti-social

—

—

—

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from Crime & Disor. der i ncluding the Antiw' Behaviour Social Team, the Police, Neighbourhood Watch & Crime Prevention, the Bobby Van and local councillors will be on hand to give advice on making you and your property more secure.

We will also be explaining how a NeST can help you make y our neigh-

behaviour, reduce

crime, bogus callers, vehicle crime and drug issues, come and see us. If we don't know about it we can't help you to address it.

For details, contact Jane Dudley, NeST Development Worker with Crime and Disorder on 466473 or mail: jdudley@swindon.gov.uk

Residents Association calls a community clean up Shaw Residents' Association is organising a Family Litter Pick on Saturday 4 October, 9.30am to 11am.

Gloves, litter pickers and bags will be provided as well as refreshments. Anybody interested in keeping their community tidy is invited to meet outside Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Shaw and Nine Elms councillor Gary Perkins will be discussing his role and answering questions at the association's monthly meeting on Monday 6 October, 8.30pm to 10pm, in the Village Inn Conservatory at Shaw Centre. All residents are welcome to attend.

Jenny Evans of the Prospect Hospice Lottery office writes Following the fantastic response to our appeals to Link readers over the last year, the best ever from any media, we're repeating the story in the hope of attracting those who missed it.

—

have worked and are

Representatives

Let's make another big push to support the local lottery

r-

bourhood a safer place and how the NeSTs in other parts of the town

The area will cover Greenmeadow to Ab- ` bey Meads, Taw Hill and Woodhall Park, in fact anyone living and working in the Haydon Wick Parish.

—

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-

I' m a Link reader and I would like to support the Prospect Hospice Lottery Mr/Mrs/Mrs/Ms ............................................ ...............................

We are a highly successful mail order company supplying hampers and gift items for Christmas Temporary Service Centre Administrators (Day and Evening Shifts) You should have a professional telephone manner, accurate keyboard skills and the ability to provide excellent customer service in a pressurised environment. Hours of work are Monday to Friday, Day Shift: 9am to 5pm: Evening Shift: 5pm to 9pm, Temporary Post & Mailing Room Administrators Ideal applicants will be good team members who are flexible in their approach to working hours. They will be physically fit as some lifting may be involved. Hours of work are 37.75 per week, worked between 7.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday In return all successful applicants will be rewarded with a competitive rate of pay and a pleasant working environment.

Address......................................................................................

Tel' .......................................

I I

enclose a cheque for my entry (£10 suggested for 10 weeks) would prefer to pay by standing order. Please send details.

Return to: Prospect Hospice Lottery. 12 Havelock Square, Swindon SN1 1 LE

L

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38 The Link Magazine • October 200 3

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Planning your plot on Priory Vale Moving into a new home is a very busy time, especially once the boxes are unpacked and the rooms arranged, and your attention turns to the garden. But what can you do with your new patch of turf or bare earth?

On Tuesday 7 October, 7pm to 9pm, at the Priory Vale Visitor Centre on Thamesdown Drive, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is running a gardening workshop to give home owners advice on how to turn a new garden into an eco-

friendly haven for all the family.

Maggie MacDonald, author of the new green gardening website produced by the Royal Horticultural Society and the Wildlife Trusts described the workshop as a chance to discuss design ideas and which plants are beneficial to

wildlife and will best provide colour throughout the year.

The workshop will compliment the sustainable gardening infor-

mation pack produced by the trust on behalf of Priory Vale to help home owners make their gardens wildlife friendly.

The pack is available as a pdf file from www.prioryvale.com .

To book a place at the workshop, call Catherine Rice, Swindon Sustainability Officer for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, on 526244 or mail: crice@wiltshirewildlife.org

Leisure garden for disabled people Although the allotments provided by the Haydon Wick Parish Council are fully taken up, with a waiting list for any plots which become available, there is still space where the council would like to provide a plot made especially accessible for and workable by a disabled person.

Before taking this initiative further the council would like to hear from registered disabled residents of the parish who might be interested. Call 722446 for details.

Cutting down trees for conservation!

Community open day at Peatmoor Copse Sunday 5 October, 10am to 2pm. Coppicing displays, guided walks, and discover how you can help preserve an ancient woodland Peatmoor Community Woodland is part of the ancient Braydon Forest, once a royal hunting ground, writes Liz Emerson.

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They then grow again from around the base, or stool, ';rowing several feet tall each season. This cutting back increases the life span of the trees, and opens up the canopy, letting in light which in turn brings to life wildflowers such as bluebells.

In the past the cut wood was used for many purposes.

The work is now all done by volunteers who, over the last 17 years, have also created a circular nature

trail through the wood so you can observe the variety of fauna and flora at different ti mes of year.

One of the biggest threats nowadays is from flytippers, people who really think it is OK to dump garden rubbish into the wood. Eco-

logically this is disastrous as grass and plant clippings act like a mulch and kill off everything underneath.

There are also those who leave ^y sweet wrappers, crisp packets, (J beer cans and plastic bottles.

I t On Sunday 5 October, between 10am and 2pm, we are inviting you to discover a remarkable green area right in the middle of urban development. Volunteers will be showing how trees are coppiced, giving guided walks and talking about the woodland.

Use the car parks on either side of Peatmoor Lagoon, at Peatmoor Village Centre or off Peatmoor Way. Walk east towards the copse and look for r -, signs.

Wear sturdy shoes. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and unfortunately there is no disabled access. There are no toilets.

The woodland management group meets at 10am on the first Sunday of every month. All the tools are provided and full training is given. Ask a volunteer about joining the group.

The Link Magazine • October 2003

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40

LETTERS TO THE LINK should be sent by 10th of the month to the address on page 4.

Farewell Swindon From Alan and Valerie Trotman, who closed Grange Farm Nurseries, Haydon End Lane at the end of September We clearly remember when Haydon Wick was a real rural village with Post Office/village shop and the local pub. A handful of houses were surrounded by the local farms, as it was then in the heart of the countryside. Swindon, the nearby town, was five miles away.

Now one has difficulty even finding Haydon Wick as it has virtually been eliminated from maps, totally overshadowed by Abbey Meads.

Alan was born at Grange Farm and I came here in 1970, so the changes we have seen are enormous. Our little area at the garden centre is still an oasis of calm hidden by the ever creeping expansion of Swindon. The area at night is now a blaze of light; years ago it was almost spooky after dark because it was pitch black.

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The decision to uproot ourselves and leave what has been our lifetime achievement has notbeen taken lightly. We have always enjoyed our work and the sense of satisfaction was very rewarding as we slowly evolved from being a commercial nursery into a garden centre.

Taking it a step at a time, we enlarged the growing and display areas as the demand for our goods increased. The growth of our business was largely due to personal recommendation, so we must have done something right. Customers appreciated the fact that we had the knowledge of plants that was needed to give the advice and help that so many people wanted.

We must now look forward yet again, as we venture into pastures new and use that knowledge for our own benefit.

The past month has been quite daunting and it is very sad to see the premises running down and becoming empty, but the good wishes and support we have received from our many loyal customers and friends has been encouraging.

We thank you all and hope to see some of you when our new challenge comes to fruition. Watch this space for news.

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names

PAINTS 1.000's of colours / ^ elendwo rth I instantly available from top / Crowson . Harlequin i Monkwell . Sanderson names. Albany. Crown, Shand Kydd . Wit man and many more! r ^ Dulux, Permoglaze.

Farrow & Ball, Fired Earth ♦ and Sanderson also available /' to order. ^ WOOD TREATMENTS Full range including Sadolin ♦ and Sikkens. i

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FABRICS & BLINDS On production of this advert - Eec. special offers.

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42

BATHROOMS

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bathrooms

general plumbing Complete Bathroom Installation • PLUMBING • TILING • ELECTRICS • EN SUITES

FREE QUOTATIONS

01793 431211 or 07771 998924 cm;iil: shirebathrooms t aoLcuni

CONSERVATORIES

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BATHROOMSIKITCHENS

BUILDING SERVICES

M&M PROPERTY SERVICES

N.G. Dyer Property Maintenance

A.L. SERVICES

• Bathroom & kitchen ^p installation • Floor& wall tiling • Plumbing • Guttering & fascias

Bathroom & kitchen installations

for all building & home improvements

Also • Floor & wall tiling • Plastering • Plumbing • Internal & external • Building work undertaken

3 Extensions /Building work

/Carpentry 3 Plastering

/Decorating & much more

• References available

Tel: 01793 723407 Mobile: 07990 847623

Call Tony on 487762 Mobile: 07751 924588

Tel: 01793 701469 or 07799 085252

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

DECORATOR

NATHAN PERKINS LTD

Windows Doors Porches Conservatories EIIII

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JAMES

Painting and decorating Domestic & Commercial

^^ !!l111 independent

FREE ESTIMATES Full range of finishes Insurance backed guaranteed

Tel: 01793 887690 Mobile: 07798 682271

E LECTR ICIAN

Wadsworth ELECTRICAL

Quality Domestic Electrical Installations Extractor fans Outside lighting Pond pumps Power to sheds & garages Extra lights & sockets Electric showers Experienced & reliable Tel: 01793 821377 Mob: 07930 284293

MAINTENANCE GENERAL MAINTENANCE

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SERVICES

All interior and exterior maintenance p r oblems solved • Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co .ul Our reputatio n is built on your satisfaction

'I

3 Roofing repairs ' Q

O'SULLIVAN • I nterior/exterior painting & decorating •

Wallpaper hanging • Tiling

Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing

•

Replacement skirtingboards. coving, picture rails • Laminate flooring fitted

Quality & Service

No job too wall • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Tel: 01793 882093 Mobile: 07957 934536

Contact Andy: 01793 729354 / 07900 835116 Mitch: 01793 537324/07977 56228

ELECTRICIAN

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

L: iahlished 22 years

For a professional finish ?phone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

ELECTRICAUKITCHE NS

FLOORING

NEWTECH U.K. l.td New electrical installations Additional sockets and lights Additional telephone points Security lighting & alarms Fault finding & repair Electric showers Rewires P.C. networks FREE QUOTES Phone 01793 877032 Mobile 07711 458026

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

Domestic, commercial & industfl

Plumbing & Electric work undertaken NIC - EICADDr•oved,Contractot

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience

For a free quotation call Steve George

Call now for a free, at home consultation

Shaw Electrical & Plumbing Ltd

All work guaranteed and undertaken by a qualified engineer

on 874480 or 07860 760364

PLASTERING

PLASTERING

Brian Jones 'lastering Services * External rendering * Plastering two coat * Re-skimming * Dry lining 7 Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010

Mobile: 07976 572905

it

MASTERFITTER

1st Call Plastering Services, k • Fully insured • Quality workmanship • Competitive rates All aspects of plastering covered

07970 865883 25 Ke nnet Avenue, Greenmeadow

I

PLUMBING General plumbing services • Radiators • Pumps • Tanks • Boilers • Cylinders • Burst pipe ^1 • Taps • Washing machine installed A

local service

by

Tel: 01793 882329 M: 07766 525959

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Extensions and loft conversion specialists Also painting, decorating and paperhanging Maintenance work undertaken Est 15 years

-

Paul i hind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

drop kerbs and edgings, etc.

LA

ELECTRICIAN

HARDROCK SURFACING

Interior & exterior

All

For quality windows and doors Tel:01793 331551 07775 621764/07799 284998

and friendly service

Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DRIVEWAYS

Driveways, paths,

No job too big or too small. Free estimates

general maintenance J Decking - supplied and fitted

01793 874807

Mobile: 0790 0216618

FENSA See our advert on page 30

• Up and Over, Roller & Sectional Garage Doors • Remote Operation Doors $GARAGE DOOR • 2 Year Guarantee Z 9R • Maintenance Free Doors Superb Security Locking Facilities • o N Highly trained fitters • • Full Back-up services • Broken Handles & Cables Replaced Largest stockists of top quality branded products in the South West of England

New fuse boards Free quotes

services

24hr call out facility

Tel: 01793 712268

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

PLUMBING

ROB HALL HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs, All aspects of plumbing

Tel: 01793 513796 www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk • email: swindondoorservices@btinternet.com

PLUMBIN G

P LUMBING & HEATING

Plumbing All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed * Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics,

M ' P' S'

&Heatin $erviCes For gas central heating, bathrooms, showers and all other plumbing & heating work

CALL 01793 522579

01793 87555 07748 964433

1

MOBILE: 0781 6906437 mps.uk@btinternet.com

PLUMBING & HEATING Quality Plumbing lity g Central heating installation

flooring all taken care of

Free estimates

= ' Tel: 01793 815254 Reg: 187606

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Plumbing

Reg No 67416

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting

bathroom and power showers

Maxwell House Maxwell Street Swindon SN1 5DR

Dave Ody

Complete tarmac

H EATIN G &

GARAG E DOORS

CARPENTRY D&IIZ Carpentry

J Laminate floors O Household repairs and

Telephone/fax:

INSTALLATIONS

43

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Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

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UPVC windows Et doors

Tel:01793 701394

painting and decorating Coving • Dado rails

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Roofing SF building maintenance

DOUBLE GLAZING

DECOIZATOIZS,

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Conservatories, fascias and guttering

For a free quotation call 07767 417079 (day) or 01793 435876 (eve)

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• Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 Building All garden work Small roof repairs Concreting paths

Patio repairs Repair or replace small walls Grass cutting Hedges & trees cut Plumbing repairs Toilets. wash

Guttering and Fascia All carpent ry External painting Internal painting & decorating Electrical

basins, bath taps,

Replace sockets

overflows repaired or replaced

Extra sockets Outside lights

ALL WORK GUARANTEED , FULLY INSURED

WOODWORKING

PALM JOINERY DESIGtI, mflKE flAb FITTIIIG SERVICES O Bedroom 5 study furniture

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All plumbing work undertaken

Reliable service, realistic prices Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

HOUSE/GARD E N

o Doors 5 windows o Skirtings etc flnything in wood considered To discuss your requirements call Derek Palmer on

01793 854 777 Unit 10.

oeklands Ind Est. Graydon Swindon

44

SERVICE

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVI CES

AER IA L S ER VIC E S

AIRPORT TRAVEL

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE

AIRPORTS direct

Services TAxAssis D

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000

BOOK-K EE PIN G J Savage

Complete (( =` Book-keeping Se rv ices • Management accounts • VAT return Sage - payroll • Sage-accounting • Self assessment • Self employed Small business For a professional & friendly service call 01793

616170

for a free no obligation consultation

• • • • •

AERIALS

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

No call out

charge All work guaranteed

Tel: 01793 702601 Mobile: 07774 943 783

CARPET CLEA NING

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The Carpet &

War

You'll be amazed how affordable it is ..call for your free estimate from you local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 FTMH clief. ss hitcw.w@btinter i ,et.com

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Ubn7CGG

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST • CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out • No call out charge

Tel: 01793 828882

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

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

OVEN CLEANING j REMOVALS/STO RAGE /^^ ., /^/^^

ABBEY MOVE

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

Satellite TV * Sky & digital terrestial * Extra TV, telephone & electrical points 4, Storm damage Tel: 01193 700018

Single Items / Full House Long / Short Distance Storage Specialists Packing Service Late Bookings

Tel (01793) 727307 Mob 0781 1 188564 WWW.ABBEYMOVE.CO.UK

Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for holiday makers Competitive prices

SKY

Mobile: 07716236415

COMPUTERS Blunsdon Bespoke Computers

Specialistsin iii the of Upholstery Cleaning Specialist custom bui lt , new and second user computer systems.

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Internet ready computers: £90 me • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Repair and upgrade service • Stain removal • Protection treatment from only £10 per hour.

• Fully insured • Upgrade to P4 for as little as £150! l+ • Free quotations.

• Quickly usable

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

DRAINS

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS

"We supply systems based on your budget not our profits!"

Contact Nick or Michelle Lovell on 07855 - 789425 e-mail: nickj.lovell@ntlworld.com

GARDEN SERVICES Grass cutting Hedge trimming • Regular, occasional or one-off • Long grass no problem • Clean, tidy work • Sensible prices • Odd jobs, fencing repairs, etc.

Friendly, 7 day service

Chris Reed Swindon 538839 Mobile: 07702 285865

Tel: 725 000 COMPUTER SUPPORT

SIGMA

Computer Solutions p NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781

6014363

sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

GAS SERVICES LPG & Natural Gas Services ' Dennis Brown Gas Engineer Still se r vicing West & North .Swindon

• Fires & fire places • Boilers • Cookers and Hobs • Boiler changes

Tel: 01666 860119 Mobile: 07768 027860 BRITISH GAS o CONTRACTOR

1c^_

REM OVALS / PACKING / STORA GE DENNIS'S REMOVALS THORNHILL IND ESTATE II SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON SN3 4TA II TEL: (01793) 828224 FAX : (01793) 828248

m^ B 4R

Established over 30 years • UK & European domestic moves Container storage in our own on-site secure warehouse Professionally trained staff • Packing materials supplied Packing service available • Commercial removals & storage Archive storage & document retrieval Confidential shredding and disposal • Free Estimates

45

SECTOR APPLIANCE REPAIRS

BEDROOMS

APPLIANCE R EPAIRS

CORNOVI UM

FITTED BEDROOMS Same day, local service wherever possible

• Most leading

Whatever the size of your room, whether it has sloped ceilings, features beams, chimney breasts or unusually shaped alcoves, we can design the perfect room for you.

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc.

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

brands

• Guaranteed • repairs Same day service

Dream • Design

No call out charge • No VAT

Transform • Relax

A SUDS

Call us for a free design study with no obligation

01793 881215

CO MPU TE R WOR K

OWN A COMPUTER?

DO MESTIC C LEANING SE RVIC ES

darv L1 ja' s cle an ers

Jusr Tim JoB Quali ty cleaning with pride and care

Satisfaction Guaranteed 100% Trustworthy and Reliable References Available

Why not put it to work?

Home based opportunity Contact: vw.learnasyouearn.uk.net

It's the jobs you find a chore.... We

or call 01793 706289

ill

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Don't get caught cold this winter!!

IRONING

Services

OFFICE SERVICES

I RONING A

CHORE?

Kas

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Not any^,»>"^ Z

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and installation of all gas appliances No.200216

and heating systems.

Competitive rates, British Gas trained

Call Lee on 01793 877214 or 07956 410981

REMOVALS & STORAGE 6 ^a ff tllGE .^

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Call Karen

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01793 341644

Mobile: 0 7752 020722 RU BBISH RE MOVALS_

COMMERCIAL

REMOVALS & s'; , ^^^

One-off, weekly. fortnightly or simply whenever!

Pick up and delivery back to your front door the next day.

Good Prices

Ip

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_ "We're blggar rb^n we rsundt

-r 4: 01793 772888

& DOMESTIC RUBBISH DISPOSAL & HOUSE

Ironing done in a smoke free enviroment at sensible rates

Call Jackie on 721878 or Donna on 721719

SOLICITOR , 4 Charles Lucas &Marshall

PRIVATE

You name it,

(Est 1993) • 24hrs - 7 days a week • Single items to a full house • 8 different size vehicles • Disposal of unwanted items

we move it Quick and clean service Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 Entail: ashobbs@theashgroup.freeserve.co uk

getting y ou down?

Contact Qwerty Office Services for: • Copy typing Audio typing • Curriculum vitaes • Secretarial services • Administration Mailshots • Payroll Faxing • Telephone answering

•

• •

No Job too big

or too small!!

Tel: 01193 347968 Mobile 07713 640150

TV & VIDEO R EPAI RS

GOGGLEBOX

We're on *: Free home estimates

side For experienced, practical help call

Tel: 01793 772268

Office work

TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

•

CLEARANCE THE MAN WITH A VAN

ARE YOU TOO BUSY TO CLEAN? We offer: et y • Regular house cleaning • Ironing A ' • Gardening r` s_t;4• Carpet cleaning • Also office cleaning service 01793 861112 (teVfax)

IRONING

Creaseless Ironing

Commercial & Domestic Se rv ices Agency

For full details, call us on

641144 fora free no obligation quote!

Interested? w 01793 07817 045964

HEATING ENG INE ER

LAS Heating for service, repair

DOMESTIC HELP

Swindon 511055

SOIICITOES

No call out charge All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

46

The Link Magazine • October 2003

PIANO TEACHER

LEARN TO PLAY THE VIOLIN with

Classic, Jazz exams, blues, Modern, Pop - in your own home

Swindon Suzuki Strings

Also available for functions,

Suitable for all ages

weddings, cocktail pianist Call Ian Winston on 01793 750702

01793 700099 http://www.mab.tgis.co.uk

Digital Camera s PCs, Laptops & Accessories

r►v

u

®DISC SERVICESk?

We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos Phone for a leaflet or advice Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758

Specialising in supplying and sourcing pre-owned, refurbished & end of line

H.Q. Bath PO Box 2079 Manvers Street, Ba th

Also PC Services Setup, spares, upgrades, tuition etc.

BA1 3 TJ

DECOTEX

Please telephone, fax or email with your requirements Amos Comuuter Technoloev Solutions T: 01793 531201 M: 07747 747000 Fax: 01793 430774 Email: sales@amos-uk.com website: www.amos-uk.com

Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

AMETHYST '

.l

CRYSTAL &

The natural removal of unwanted hair from any

REIKI HEALING Julie Hopkins Crystal Healer & Reiki Master Tel: 01793 870109

I

rIlF (U lIN4 (Lila London trained ( mobile hair

/

7

stylist Call

Sulc 1Fill part of the face or body

Also available: Facials and eyelash tinting

P'UQE EssENC' Aromatherapy • R,ei4i Indian Head Massage Ear Candling St Andrews Ridge Area To boo1 , an appointment call Barbara on 07986 042 366

Sue on 0779 6432700 Y•

D

uk

• Zlpholsteiy

Upholstery repairs c recovering , from £18 Large range of materials or in your own For , furl her details

call 01793 871808

For Sale

For Sale

For Sale

For Sale

Girls bike, age 3 - 5 yrs, purple. with basket and dolls seat, stabilisers, £10. Tel: 876842

Riding boots, children's, hardly worn, knee length, size 12.5. £10. Riding jacket, quilted, suit 5-8 yr old, blue. £15. Tel: 873021 Reebok cross trainer, excellent condition, bought for £299, for sale £150. Tel: 07976184860 Backpack with detachable daypack. large capacity, as new, cost £100, sell for £60. Tel: 771080 MacGregor golf clubs, 9 irons and 3 woods, plus bag, in good condition, £95. Tel: 876324

Red dralon chair with hand operated riser seat for disabled, excellent cond, £150. Tel: 812081 Solid pine, by Hamlet of Bristol, table, 5ft x 2ft bins, 4 chairs, 2 carvers, sideboard, Welsh dresser in 2 pieces, display units, one piece of furniture costs £400. Tel: 556141 (office hours) Honey coloured pine dresserwith glass cabinet. two drawers and double cupboard, £20. Tel: 704169 Sofa bed, good condition, £10. Wanner grease gun, £5. Tel: 722158

Tricity cooker, white, double oven, fully operable, excellent condition, £125. Tel: 873179

Boy's bike, Raleigh Big Shot. 20" wheels, 5 gears, from age 7 years. £15. Tel: 523726 Raleigh bike with stabilisers, suit boy age 35yrs. good condition. £20. Child bicycle seat, good condition, £12. Tel: 873179 Stroller, three wheeler ATB, large wheels, green, suit child up to 4 yrs, £50. Tel: 703307 Pine extending toddler bed with mattress and guard rail, good condition, £40. Tel: 881897 Britax Supercruiser, 2nd stage car seat, £10.

Graco double pushchair. £30, Rhode Gear bike seat. £45. Tel: 791225 Britax 2 matching Rock-a-Tot deluxe car seats. birth to 12 months, c/w head huggers. sun canopies. cosytoes, rain covers, £30 each. £50 for 2. Tel: 704969 2 white walk-through style stair gates, metal. £6 each. McClaren baby buggy. good condition, navy blue, £7. Tel: 487175 Britax first stage car seat with head support, vgc. £12 ono. Tel: 347622 Mothercare pushchair, suitable for birth, swivel wheels, shopping baskets, drink holder, baby tray. £30 ono. Tel: 831702 Bebeconfort blue pushchair. carrycot. excellent condition. raincover, cosytoes. £60. Tel: 700532 Mamas & Papas double buggy, excel condition with hood, raincover. one cosy toes, & sunshade, suitable birth onwards, £310 new, accept £120 ono. Sturdy carrycot, £15.2 crib mattresses. £15 each. Breast pump. £10. Changing mat, £3.

Door bouncer, £8. All vgc. Tel: 882610 Little Tikes country cottage, vgc, £60 ono. Tel: 706359 Dolls pram, sprung chassis, includes shopping bag, shopping tray, perfect condition. Tel: 727817

Golf shoes, menu, size 9, Adidas, black plastic studs, nearly new, £5. Tel: 631314 Full set golf clubs, right hand IVC 2000, £80.

Tel: 529471 Sunbeds, ex rental, canopies and doubles available, delivery possible, from £100 to £250.

Tel: 726906 Ski suit, lady's medium size, jade green. all in one, new, £50, no offers. Tel: 07941 987507 Wedding dress, Romantica ivory, size 10, bodice style with full skirt and train, pearl detail, £300 ono. Tel: 701201 G-Plan teak double 8 drawer chest, 56" wide, £35. Tel: 721881 Pine coffee table, good cond, £20. Tel: 722863 Bureau 14" x 47" x 48", £15. Radiogram, £15.

Electronic organ, Viscount, with stool, £30. Tel: 881191 5 sherry glasses, cut glass. 5 brandy glasses, 4 champagne glasses, £30. Tel: 881299 Two beds, 6 x 3 with Dunlopillow mattresses, £20 each Toshiba 22 inch TV with stand. £20.

Tel: 881258 Solid beech pine cabin bed, wardrobe. desk. 4 drawer chest, excel cone, £150. Tel: 337027 2 pine Stompa bedroom furniture: cabin beds. pull-out desk & cupboard units, triple wardrobe.

3 drawer chests, £100 each set. Tel: 728027

I Free private for Sale & Wanted ads Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD, by 12th of the month

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication) L

-------------------I

2 two seater sofas, multi coloured, slight rips on cushions, hence price £30. Tel: 701216 Antique behind the sofa table with inlaid ivory pattern, 5ft long. £100. Antique Boots bed and douche slipper. reg no 669655, no cracks, perfect. £75. Tel' 532342 Green oak 225mm x 75mm lengths of 0.50m up to 4.20m, £10 for metre, ideal beams, fireplaces.

Tel: 882966 Three piece suite by Chalford Chairs, floral fabric, very good condition. £300. Tel: 724225 Normans black ash furniture, 2 glass display units, one base, one hi-fi, vgc. £60. Tel: 881362 10ft mahogany curtain rail, £10. Ski sticks & new boots. B & W TVs. £3 & £5. TV & video stand, £5. Tel: 347507 3 seater bed settee and 2 matching arm chairs, green\cream. excel condition, £195. Tel: 829918 Pine desk with three drawers and three shelves,. good condition, £10. Tel: 872661 Velvet curtains, blue lined, 90 inches wide, 54 inches drop, excellent condition, £20. Tel: 879505 Solid pine welsh dresser. 5'6" high, 4'6" wide, 2 drawers. 2 cupboards. brass knobs. £50. Tel: 879601 Ikea green leather sofa, excellent condition, £50. Tel: 635420 Lind Bentwood chair, 100% cotton cover, bottle green. light coloured wood, vgc, £39. Tel:695012 Beige & pink cane suite, 2 chairs & settee, vgc. £400. Tel: 495765 Brabantia Vision 5 piece pan set,l4cm, 16cm, 18cm. 20cm, 24cm, ideal wedding gift, boxed, £70. Tel: 881353 Contoured tap rail to help get in and out of bath. folds against wall when not in use, cost £30, sell for £10 ovno. Tel: 729887 Solid wood double glazed windows with sills and fitments. 4 sized 115cm x 100cm: 1 sized 173cm x 100cm, £25 each. Double glazed patio doors to fit 205cm x 240cm, excel cond. £55.

Mahogany solid wood front door. Georgian panels. small glazed window, 190cm x 83cm, £55. Tel: 881746 Extractor cooker hood, 1000mm wide, Creda, 4 speed. fan, internal filter and light, black. Tel: 873532

Neff white double oven and gas hob. never used, worth £900 sell for £500. Tel: 704581 Travel kettle, Phillips, £8. Russell Hobbs teasmade, £5. Tower slow cooker. £15. TV wall stand, £8. Tel: 347507 Calor gas heater. £20. Electric radiator, thermo control, £30. Tel: 729128 Stone effect fireplace with electric coal fire, £50.

Pine furniture, phone for details. Tel: 729128 30" black suitcase. pull along, used once, £20.

Tel: 341772 Suitcase, large, Antler, pull-along, green. used once, £30 ono. Tel: 347622 Alto saxophone, brand new, carrying case, video instructions, including reeds, £500 ono.

Tel: 729194 Yamaha PSR-282 keyboard, stand and adapter, instructions, as new, in box, £100. Tel: 875706 Alba music system CD/radio/tape, twin speakers. excellent sound/condition, £15, no offers. Tel: 07941 987507 Stereo radio cassette recorder, unwanted gift, offers. Tel: 536532 Matsui twin tape/radio with remote, excel coed, batteries or mains, £10. Tel: 07941 987507 Hitachi music system, radio/twin tape deck and speakers good condition, £15. Tel: 07941 987507 New HP computer cartridge 51 625A new, colour, black 51626A new, unused, £10 the lot. Tel: 813162 Gameboy Advance games. Total Soccer. Lego Island 2, Rugrats, Castle Capers, new. unwanted prizes, £18 each. Tel: 881353 Large colour TV, no remote control, free to collect. Tel: 07941 987507 Olivetti ET121 electronic typewriter. good working order. £30. Tel: 876902 Storage cages, stackable, 4 sized 81 cm x 56cm x 46cm approx, suitable workshop, garage, garden, £8 each. Tel: 874738 Rubber plant. 12ft high, has outgrown space, free to collector. Tel: 870213 Bradcot portico plus porch awning, fibre glass frame, excellent condition, £280 ono. Tel: 721705 Caravan Stirling Classic, heating, shower, full side awning, 2 berth, can deliver. £900 ono. Tel:' 01285 860473 3 bike carriers, £15 each. 5 alloy wheels, 195 x 60, R15, £50 set. Tel: 431334 1.6 GL VW Polo dark red, colour, excellent family car, full service history, slight dent in offside wing, £3.500. Tel: 487175 Saab 9000i G-reg, leather, PAS, e/w, ES, MOT March 2004, tow bar, £500. Tel: 07717 297763

The Link Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2003

Into the groove at the university

Volunteers needed

Think of any kind of music and the newly appointed Community Music Development Worker at the University of Bath in Swindon would like to hear from you.

Annelies de Bruine,

right, is organising a free event on Tuesday 7 October, 3.30pm to 6.30pm, at the Oakfield Campus for r anybody who plays music, teaches it or wants to start a music group in their area.

There will be workshops in singing, improvisation,

DJspinning,andinformation on funders who sup_ port the development of music in the community.

"I'm looking for musiclans who would like to offer music to people who have never had the opportunity before," said Annelies. "Community music can happen anywhere; it

Choirs sing for hospices worldwide Singers from Swindon Choral Society are preparing for a big concert, Hospices in Harmony, on Saturday 4 October in Marlborough College Chapel, joining choirs around the globe singing at the same time.

After many years rehearsing at Oliver Tomkins Junior School in Toothill, the choir moved to the larger space at Freshbrook Church at the beginning of September.

Membership secretary Suzanne Bullimore said the society would like to thank the former and present

headteacher and the school caretaker for their assistance and cooperation during their time at Oliver Tomkins.

The society welcomes new singers, and particularly needs men to bolster up parts in the lower ranges.

Call Suzanne on 870488 for details.

47

gives access to everyone, whatever their ability, situation or background.

"Right now I need to know where these musicians are, so that I can offer maximum support."

To talk to Annelies and to receive a copy of her newsletter, or advertise a community music event, call 328762 (Tuesdays only) or mail: a.debruine@bath.ac.uk High flying Bible club for 5-10 year olds Blast off with the North Swindon Baptist Church Holida y Bible Club Space Sta^iy tion from 27 to 31 October, 10am to 12noon at Abbey Meads School. Spaces are limited so call Jackie Mitchell on 341743 or Rachel Kay on 341531.

Freshbrook Lunch Club is looking for volunteers to help make and serve a midday meal on Mondays, 10am and 1.30pm. A free meal is provided.

For details call Lorraine Webb on 871017 (mornings).

Quiz teams wanted The Swindon Well Women Centre is looking for teams of 4 to take part in a quiz evening at the Windmill at Freshbrook Village Centre on Saturday 11 October, 7.30pm.

The cost is ÂŁ5 to enter and prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. For details call 511064.

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West Swindon Churches to welcome new Bishop The five member churches of the Partnership of West Swindon and the Lydiards are looking forward to the visit of Bishop Mike Hill, the new Bishop of Bristol, at their annual Partnership service on Sunday 12 October where he will speak on the theme God's Challenge To Give.

The partnership service takes place at the Oliver Tomkins Schools, Beaumaris Road, Toothill, with the adults meeting in he Junior School and the young people and children having their own interactive event in the Infant Scho 1. Both services begin at 10.30am.

Everyone is wel lFome to join in. For details, call the churches partnership office on 874221.

Come and join us Sunday at I Oam & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH SUNDAYS 10.30AM WINNER'S LOUNGE SWINDON TOWN FC For details visit our website at www.sfc-uk.org , call Nigel on 526130 or e-mail:

info_west@sfc-uk.org A Neccfrontiers Church

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Sunday Worship i.0.30am Sunday School and Creche

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

NSBC

Meeting at Greenmeadow Primary School Green- do ,v

Primary School sq^cn`P

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Toothill Church; Westlea Church Dar[ Avenuc

For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221

Whitworth Rd

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64006

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