October 2007 Swindon Link

10 years of www.swindonlink.com See page 4

No. 305 October 2007 • Circulation 26,000

YOUR CHILD DESERVES THE BEST Excellent standards of Education and Daycare for 0 - 7 years

MEADOWPARK Nursery & Pre-Prep School Tel: Swindon 752600

the positive newsforce in Swindon

Open Days: Friday 12th October & Saturday 13th October

and the swindon wide what’s on guide

Celebrating Swindon’s link to Central America Hundreds of children across the town enjoyed sessions with two dancers from Ocotal, Swindon’s twin town in Nicaragua in September. See page 7

Bringing peace to the mean streets

FIVE ★ WINNER Scores on the Doors Award For excellent compliance to food & hygiene regulations

The young visitors to the town Edenia Rivera and Marcos Rugama, pictured in front of the Swindon Ocotal Link mural at Link Centre

Maharajah Fully licenced Tandoori & Balti Restaurant Street pastors project coordinator Rev Paul Rush and Jane Perrot ready to assist

Street pastors are now trained and ready to help clubbers in the town centre See page 13

Farewell to Carol

Get ready to be a mad march hare Details on page 3

Hundreds of people said goodbye to Carol Shand in September.

Turn to page 2 Carol with grandaughter Shenaya in the April Link

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Pharmacist aims high for Prospect

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Sushma Patel, who has run Freshbrook’s Facechoice Pharmacy for over 20 years, has set her sights on reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro in December in aid of the Prospect Hospice. need mountainSince completeering equiping the Moonwalk ment. for Breakthrough “We’re training Breast Cancer hard because you three years ago, need to be fit but Sushma has conthe biggest continued to keep cern is altitude fit with friends. sickness.”

“We try and set The party will a goal each year. climb to over Two years ago we 19,300 feet in five trekked through days, hoping to the Himalayas on reach the top on a Hindu pilgrim21 December. The age and this year one of the group slow ascent, with wants to celebrate only four or five his birthday on hours walking the top of Africa’s highest moun- each day, is necessary to acclimatise tain.” to the high altitude. Coming down Fifteen people aged 15 to late 50s will only take a day and a half. will make the trip to Tanzania, in“My expenses are all covered, so cluding Sushma’s son, Vishal, 16. any sponsorship will go to ProsShe said, “we were attracted by pect,” said Sushma. “I’ve always Kilimanjaro because you can hike wanted to raise money for them; up almost as a tourist; you don’t it’s such a brilliant cause.”

A fine send off for Carol

Nearly 1,000 people gathered St Barnabus Church, Gorse Hill in midSeptemer to say a sad but lively farewell to Carol Shand who was described as ‘an angel on earth.’

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Carol’s family gather with her before setting out from Stamford Close

Many attending on 14 September responded to the family’s request that they wear something yellow, her favourite colour.

Carol, from Grange Park, was pictured on the front page of the April Link holding her baby granddaughter Shenaya. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001 and had been close to remission in 2006 when specialists at the Great Western Hospital told her that the disease had spread and was inoperable.

She appealed in The Link for information on inspirational places she could visit to gain spiritual strength and readers sent messages and information on places like Lourdes, Glastonbury and Christian retreats.

Sadly Carol was unable to make further trips as her health deteriorated. She died at the Prospect Hospice on 3 September.

Carol had specified much of what she wanted at her funeral, including briefing Pastor Mick Smart, right down to asking that there were carrots for the horses that would pull the hearse.

After an overnight wake at her sister Dawn’s house in Stamford Close, Toothill, where neighbours had decorated their homes with yellow ribbon, her coffin was placed in a magnificent white hearse pulled by four greys, each sporting a flamboyant yellow feather.

Dawn said, “there were lots of tears, but we celebrated a wonderful life. Carol was part of so many people across Swindon. It was lovely for all the neighbours to decorate their homes and wear yellow.’

• The proceeds of next year’s third Carol’s Cook-Out in early September, which she started to help charity, will go to the Prospect Hospice.

20/9/07 12:01:13

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Walk and run to involve everybody in breast cancer campaign Plans are coming together for the first ever Swindon Mad March Hare event in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer on 16 March 2008.

The project was announced in the walk for Breakthrough take place August Link and details are now be- in Swindon. ing put in place by members of the “Colleagues at BP organised a Swindon branch of Breakthrough walk after she died in June 2006 Breast Cancer. Recruitment of par- but we plan to make the Mad ticipants will start in March Hare an anOctober. nual event.”

Power walks and Leaflets with bookruns over 5k and ing forms are being 10k around Lydiard prepared in time for Park will start from the Cricklade and Greendown School Swindon half marain Grange Park. A thons in October.

5k family fun run The Link is workand Easter egg hunt ing with the organisin Lydiard is also ers to promote the planned. event. Juggle Design, Organiser Eunice our neighbours at S a l mo n o f N i n e Basepoint Business Elms said the idea Centre, have helped came from Irene capture the spirit and Hare, a member of fun of the day by the Swindon Twin proposing a snazzy Peaks walking team logo. who undertook several overnight • Members of Breakthrough Breast Moonwalk marathons in London, Cancer Wiltshire Group are organbefore she lost her battle with breast ising fundraising events in the Decancer. “Irene didn’t let cancer af- signer Outlet Centre in association fect her life and was always find- with the M&S store on 29 and 30 ing ways to raise money. She was September and on Saturdays 6,13 a very determined, inspirational, and 20 October. For details mail: lovely lady; she was keen to see a shirley.garman@ntlworld.com

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 3

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21/9/07 16:40:55

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years Do you want to make a difference to people’s lives?

Do you have an NVQ Level 2 in Care?

Do you have your own motor transport?

We are looking for very special people to join our team of BANK STAFF to undertake care work in the community especially evenings, and weekends

10 years on the web In April The Link celebrated 20 years as a business. This month we mark the tenth anniversary since launching our online presence at www.swindonlink.com - the second web site (by a couple of weeks) dedicated to Swindon.

1 Wood Street Swindon Telephone 01793 542285 for an application pack

A business opportunity has arisen to acquire A viable 10 year old business, the only one offering a ladies’ hat hire service in the Swindon area.

Included in the purchase are: over 150 ‘special occasion’ ladies’ hats Winter hats, small handbags, hat boxes, display and storage equipment Web site with domain name, database of customers, supplier list etc.

Advice and training can be given as required.

Genuine enquiries only.

Please call 01793 704005 for further information

You can foster It’s one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have

Ready to surf ten years ago, the Mayor and Mayoress Maurice and Sheila Fanning, Town Crier Fred Ferris, web designers left, Paul Dunn and Mark Hodgeson, and Link publisher Roger Ogle

Tradition met hi-tech when Swindon’s town crier Fred Ferris gave a Shout for Swindon to launch the site on 11 October 1997, starting off with the usual cry, ‘Oyez, oyez, oyez, I am called upon to announce the launch of a new world wide web site for Swindon on the internet.’

That year’s mayor and mayoress Maurice and Sheila Fanning came along and Great Western Cameras captured the moment on one of the first digital cameras on the market and the image was uploaded a few moments later.

How things have developed since. Slash this, dot that, www and the @ sign have become central to day to day activity and the reach and use of the internet has permeated, dare we say, pervaded all of life. swindonlink.com has continued

to do the stuff online that the magazine has done for nearly 29 years.

(The Link first appeared as a local newsletter in December 1978).

Visit now and you’ll find: • A mix of stories from The Link before they appear on paper and articles that don’t make it into the magazine; • FREE classifieds; • FREE business listings for magazine advertisers; • FREE listings for community organisations and charities; • A photo gallery where you can add images of Swindon.

However, the web site can only compliment the magazine which readers consistently say is their invaluable source of news, views and information in our target distribution area and further afield.

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1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 4

Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial copy date for November: 10 October Published: 27 October Copy for December: 7 November Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027.

Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks.

Printed by pcp, Telford

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 (9am-3pm) advertising@swindonlink.com November bookings by 1 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.”

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

21/9/07 17:07:22

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

5

What’s happening at Lower Shaw Farm?

A year ago The Link became aware that Swindon Council was cooking up a plan to expel the residents of Lower Shaw Farm so that the site could be sold off for executive housing.

Swindon in July to be the site of a We broke the story on swindonground breaking project to build up link.com and in the magazine at the The Sensible Alternative to 400 high quality eco-homes. end of October and predicted that to a Skip Coun Bluh said, “nobody is more the proposal would be greeted by Cheaper & frustrated by the delay than me. I dismay and a very angry response.

Twice the Capacity! am meeting the Lower Shaw Farm And so it came to pass. The reaction Clearance, Recycling & Disposal trustees with the Chief Executive in from readers, people across Swinof Business & Domestic Waste early October; we’re very keen to don and further afield, as well as Load Assist & 24 Hour Service honour the spirit of the agreement other local media outlets, was an A Professional Clearance & Recycling Service made last November.” overwhelming ‘hands off Lower Call TR Recycling (Swindon) now!

• The Lower Shaw Farm commuShaw Farm.’

A tsunami of e-mails, letters and Fearing for Lower Shaw Farm, Holly nity cafe is open on Wednesdays TR Recycling (Swindon) t/f: 01793 706447 • m: 07737371393 ‘phone calls crashed into the office Whyatt and Charlie Wilmot from the 10am to 2pm for coffee, tea and e: trrecycling@swindon.myzen.co.uk w: www.trrecycling.co.uK light lunches. of Swindon Council leader Rod November 06 Link front page Behind the scenes meetings Bluh from people appalled that the farm was being considered for between Lower Shaw Farm trustclosure. Indeed Matt Holland and ees and the council leader were Andrea Hirsch, who have run the complemented by a courteous farm as an educational centre with campaign to save the farm. On 25 1 You drop it off residential facilities for over 25 November, the full council agreed 2 We sell it on eBay for you years, had been given a few months a resolution affirming its support for the activities at the farm and notice to quit.

3 We send you a cheque Opponents to the plan were com- that the council would seek a way Turn your treasures into cash pletely amazed by the high-handed, forward to secure its future by and let us sell your unwanted short-sighted, unimaginative, profit renewing a long term lease of the items on eBay for you. led policy, contrary to a council education centre and look at jointly resolution in the early 1980s to retain developing the site with high qualthe farm as an ecological haven in ity sustainable homes.

There has been silence since the midst of expansion to the west Let Us Auction It Ltd, BSS House, Unit 36 whilst the council started to draw up of the town.

Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2PJ Just as even more persuasive a planning brief for the site. The Link environmental and quality of life understands that at a meeting in issues were hitting the headlines May a variety of agencies indicated (Only items valued at £35 or more can be accepted) - as well as the Conservative Party objections to site development, turning a greener shade of blue though they could be over-ruled - Swindon Council seemed intent within Swindon Council.

After another period of silence a on throwing away an invaluable but unsung feature of the Swindon meeting with Coun Bluh and councommunity in order to carry out cil officers is to take place in early a ‘re-sophistication’ of a capital October to discuss a consultant’s report on what is to be done with asset.

Many people used the same Lower Shaw Farm.

Now, the council is besotted with expression: ‘they know the price of everything, but the value of green issues after Making Rooms TV star Kevin McCloud selected nothing.’

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Flooded seniors hope for safety

In the last three years retired residents and the warden of George Tweed Gardens at Shaw Village Centre have been flooded out of their homes.

Councillors at the West Swindon the stream; it’s now completely Forum in October heard that in the overgrown.”

Council engineer Denis Cole told monsoon deluge on 20 July four flats were inundated, one more than the meeting that torrential downon the previous two occasions, as pours were regarded as occasional water from Shaw Ridge and Ram- occurrences in the past but were leaze overwhelmed storm drains to be expected nowadays. “The and the nearby Roughmoor brook council will be publishing a flood risk strategy for all of Swindon in overflowed its banks.

Warden Brenda Poat described October. In the short term at Shaw, how she was desperately moving subject to the budget authority, we residents to the group dwelling will be sending a team with chain common room with assistance from saws and machinery to clear the firemen, including a ninety year stream.

“George Tweed Gardens sits in old permanently connected to an oxygen tank, whilst her husband in a bowl and we will be looking at a wheelchair after a foot operation how to reduce the flood risk in the watched water come up through longer term.”

In the meantime a shed full of the floor of her living room.

She said, “when we came to the sand and bags has been sited at the Gardens 15 years ago we could see Gardens - just in case.

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 5

21/9/07 16:43:48

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

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1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 6

Road could relieve West congestion, if Government contributes cash

According to a traffic survey in May, 31 per cent of traffic leaving North Swindon in the morning peak hour uses Thamesdown Drive to join Mead Way through West Swindon and a further 20 per cent uses Lady Lane towards the town centre - some of which heads for the West.

If you think the congestion is bad on Great Western Way such as the now, gridlock beckons when the Bruce Street Bridges; final 3,500 homes are built and oc- • to the east, making Cricklade cupied in Priory Vale by 2010. And Road a dual carriageway along its land has still to be found for another entire length, or improving priority measures for buses.

1,000 homes ‘west of Swindon.’

Peter Greenhalgh, Swindon The issues were spelt out in the June Link when we asked if the pro- Council cabinet member for planposed extension of Thamesdown ning, highways and transport, said, Drive from Purton Road to Great “we have secured money for transWestern Way at Barnfield Road will port improvements from North Swindon developers, but it won’t ever be built.

Now Swindon Council is con- be enough to do what’s needed. ducting a consultation exercise The estimate I’ve been given for on a transport strategy for North the Thamesdown Drive extension is Swindon looking at ways to im- between £60 and £100 million.

“We need to make a bid to cenprove traffic flow so that it does not hinder the town’s economic tral government to undertake the improvements. I’m hopeful our development.

Options being considered could bid will be looked upon favourably, especially as they have told include: • building the Thamesdown Drive us that Swindon must provide extra to Great Western Way link road, as housing.”

Information and an online survey originally envisaged in the North Swindon Master Plan of the early can be found at www.swindon.gov. uk/nsts 1990s; For a printed copy of the North • making improvements to Mead Way though West Swindon to in- Swindon Transport Strategy document call customer services on crease capacity; • improving bottleneck junctions 463725.

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21/9/07 16:45:05

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

7

Developers to look at stadium proposals again Plans to redevelop Abbey Stadium alongside housing and a business park in North Swindon are to be presented again to Swindon Council’s planning committee in November after a review by developers.

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Eric Petrie, MD of Thistle Land, explaining the Abbey Stadium plans to residents at a consultation meeting in June

Planning officers had recommended that the application to build a new stadium, 450 homes, a residential care home and 16,000 square metres of office space on 54 acres between St Andrew’s Ridge and Tadpole Lane, Blunsdon be turned down on the grounds there would be too many residential units for the existing infrastructure like schools, too little green space, and too few jobs.

A significant part of the site required permission from the council and central government to change its designated use from light industrial to housing and offices.

Predictably the developers claimed their scheme was the only commercially viable proposition.

They were told behind the scenes by councillors that they had made a commitment to build a new stadium and would be expected to deliver one as part of the development package within an acceptable planning framework.

Abbey Meads councillor Justin Tomlinson said the planning issues were very complicated. “The principle of changing the use of the land was supported by the planning committee and the developers have to work on the detail of the housing mix, parking by the stadium and access issues.

“Swindon Council will only consider an application which protects the short and long term future of speedway at the present site.”

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Dancing in celebration of link

Swindon’s connection with its twin town Octotal in Nicaragua was

strengthened by the visit of Edenia Rivera, 20, and Marcos Rugama, 18, for three weeks in September.

They brought news of projects Clarke said Edenia and Marcos supported by the Swindon Ocotal were tremendous ambassadors Link (SOL) and spoke about the for Ocotal.

SOL is planning a trip for Swinpartnership at the SOL annual gendon people to Ocotal in Autumn eral meeting on 21 September.

Edenia and Marcos visited pri- 2008.

To find out more or to get inmary and secondary schools across the town to demonstrate traditional volved in SOL call Rita Heads dances and get children up and on 495073 or mail: bruce.clarke@ moving, trying out lively rou- ntlworld.com tines to Latin American sounds.

The mayor entertained the visitors in his parlour and they tourist attractions around Swindon.

SOL currently funds 35 children to attend school in Ocotal, and supports a nursery, health clinic and an old people’s home.

SOL chairman Bruce Edenia and Marcos leading a workshop at Greendown School

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 7

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Express could be open for Xmas Priory Vale pub announcement due

Redhouse residents could enjoy free champagne and a chocolate fountain at the opening of The Works hair salon at the new Redhouse Village Centre, opposite Isambard Community School, on 8 September, but they’ll have to wait until December to buy groceries or newspapers.

The centre was due to open in June but the building programme was behind schedule. And behind the scenes Smile Stores was giving up on its plan to open and the SeptemberLink revealed that the lease had been taken over by Tesco.

A spokeswoman said fitting out should start in October and the store could be open for Christmas.

“We understand residents’ disappointment at the delay but we look forward to opening the new Tesco Express and are committed to contributing to the vibrancy and vitality of this new community and serving our customers in the future.”

Apart from the hair salon, developers Crest Nicholson have let units to a fish and chip shop, Straker Goodman Ingram estate agents, and the fourth is provisionally to be a dental surgery.

Project manager Chris Cain said, “I think we have achieved a good mix of businesses in the first phase.

We will shortly be marketing a further three retail units to be built to the north of the village square, opposite the school.

“Market conditions have been

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 8

Famous dads help celebrate school’s first year

Swindon Town FC players Lee Peacock and Jeral Ifil took a break from training to cut a first year birthday cake in an assembly at Orchid Vale Primary School where their children attend.

Afterwards the staff, children and ing the Haydon End site wearing parents watched a time capsule of a hard hat just 20 months ago. “We letters and artwork of children’s wanted to involve as many people ideas of what their school will be like as possible in celebrating our first in the future buried in the outdoor year because we set high standards classroom by caretaker Bob Ellis. we’ve achieved so much in a short Headteacher Debbie Kylynka time, whilst making learning enjoysaid it was hard to imagine tour- able for the children.

Lee Peacock and Jeral Ifil with Orchid Vale youngsters and headteacher Debbie Kylynka

Paul and Sheila Edwards toasting their new salon at Redhouse centre

uncertain over the last three years but there will now be a flurry of building at the centre.”

He did not reveal the name of the brewing group to build the pub.

This will be announced in October when a planning application is submitted.

A public meeting will be held in November or December when plans for the pub and the village centre overall will be put on display.

Councillors needed for North parish

People to represent the views of residents of St Andrews Ridge, Redhouse and parts of Abbey Meads are needed by Blunsdon Parish Council.

Meetings take place on the first Monday of the month at Blunsdon Village Hall and the third Monday of the month in Abbey Meads Primary School. For details call parish clerk Rachel Smith on 705617.

21/9/07 16:46:00

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 9

21/9/07 14:06:19

10 www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Low cost homeopathy clinic demonstrates success

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Dr A Dwivedi, Dr Mathi, Dr K Burke, Dr M Awad (on maternity leave)

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Surgery hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 12.30pm; 2pm - 5.30pm Closed Thursday afternoon WE ALSO HAVE A PURPOSE BUILT COMMUNITY CENTRE FOR HIRE PLEASE CALL CLAIRE ON 877700

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Crafts and the meaning of Christmas

A free course to provide an antidote to pre-Christmas hype Six morning workshops with two craft demonstrations at each session All materials provided to produce cards, gift tags and bags, bookmarks, serviettes and a toiletry bag Workshops take place in Freshbrook Church every two weeks starting 6 October, 9.45am to 12noon, and include a 10 minute talk about the Christmas story To book a place, call Debbie Dean on 0772 336 1245

If it’s the end of the road, which way do you turn?

When a couple are in the throes of planning their wedding, or perhaps preparing to move in together, the one thing they’re unlikely to want to think about is ‘what happens if it doesn’t work out?’ writes Trevor Morkham, Mediation Practice Manager at Family Mediation (North Wiltshire).

DIVORCING?

resolving family & community conflict

It’s been nearly 6 months now since Ruth Derham opened a clinic in Purton offering low cost homeopathy treatment. It’s been a tremendous success largely due to Link magazine readers, she explains The response to the arthy, but each with a story ticle in the March edition to tell, looking for a caring, has been unbelievable. considered and concerned We established the approach to their needs. clinic to provide low cost The wonderful thing treatment for anyone about homeopathy is that who wanted to try a difit is perfectly safe and suitferent approach to their able for anyone, and since health care. its inception, we have seen It combines high quality homeo- at the clinic young and old alike, pathic treatment with the tuition of with a wide variety of health issues, mature students. For myself and and witnessed many exceptional the students it has been a highly responses to the treatment. Perhaps enjoyable and beneficial experience, we could help you too. helping us all to further develop Our doors are open to everyone, as practitioners. But the key to its so if you would like to book an success has been the patients who appointment, or would like more have come along, some of them information, please call 772883. knowing nothing about homeopaSee advert on page 35.

Sadly almost half of all marriages now end in divorce whilst the breakdown rate for cohabitation is probably even higher. Often there are children to consider, a home and a mortgage to decide about, and increasingly these days significant debts to sort out. The whole situation can be confusing and even frightening, especially as for most people it’s an experience they’ve never been through before.

Faced with what seems to be a potential minefield – legally, financially and emotionally – the kneejerk reaction for many people is to contact a solicitor. For others, the whole idea of getting involved with solicitors and the courts fills them with horror, but they don’t necessarily know where else to turn.

For over 25 years, there has been an alternative – Family Mediation.

Since 1981, the service has been helping separating and divorcing couples make sensible and appropriate arrangements for their children, and for the last fifteen or so years has been assisting them to negotiate settlements on financial and property matters as well.

Of course, it doesn’t work for everyone, and there will always be some who feel they need a solicitor to ‘fight their corner’ or they simply can’t face the thought of even being in the same room as their ex, let alone trying to discuss the children or the finances with them.

But for those who can, Family Mediation is a civilised and constructive way to deal with the many issues and decisions which inevitably accompany the breakdown of a relationship. One of our recent clients commented, “our mediator was very thorough, covering all aspects which needed to be addressed, whilst remaining fair and impartial. This has made the whole process of separation much simpler and less emotional.

“The mediator managed to make the periods I spent in the same room as my ex-husband bearable, which I had not considered possible previously.”

So if you’re facing separation or divorce, or you know someone who is, Family Mediation could be the answer. See the advertisement below for ways to contact us.

21/9/07 16:46:20

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

11

Charity success under stress

Those attending the Age Concern Swindon annual general meeting on on Thursday 11 October will hear of another successful year but one of considerable financial pressure for the organisation.

Chair of trustees Derek Benfield 350 older people rely on our services said, “Age Concern is a great every week throughout the year and charity, recognised nationally for we must not let them down.”

The annual meeting at 11.45am its caring work and performance delivery and this year Members takes place in the Winners Lounge of Parliament voted us as their top at the County Ground, and coincampaigning charity. Yet again in cides with the Senior Well-Being Swindon all our services have been day organised by Swindon Council up to an excellent standard and my trading standards and Wiltshire fire thanks must go to all the staff and and rescue service. The day starts at 10am and is open to all older people volunteers.

“However 2006 was a financially and their families.

For details of Senior Well Being stressful year and we urgently need to raise additional funds in order to day and a copy of the annual report maintain our services. Upwards of call 692166.

Abbey Meads Dental Practice Restorative, Preventive & Cosmetic Dentistry

NHS Dentistry (for children)

Free Car Park Toothill’s Good Companions Club is the longest running social group in West Swindon. New members are always welcome at their meetings on Mondays 2pm to 4pm at Toothill Community Centre to make friends, play cards, scrabble and other board games and bingo. For details call club secretary Jean Carey on 344717.

01793 726288

Abbey Meads Village Centre, Swindon

Patient Appreciation Week Free Spinal Health Checks

What’s your family doing from Monday 15th - Friday 19th October?

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Your visit will include: • • • • •

A private consultation with the practitioner X-rays, if considered necessary A thorough spinal examination including orthopaedic and neurological tests Confidential verbal report of our findings An explanation of our treatment procedure if we determine spinal health care can help you

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Headache/Migraine Back pain Tension/Low energy Whiplash injury Neck pain Poor posture Scoliosis Arthritic pain Slow healing from injury and illness Arm/Leg pain and numbness/pins & needles Childhood disorders: colic, bedwetting, asthma, learning disabilities, chronic ear infections .. to name a few

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1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 11

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“When I was size 28 and mum was size 20 we couldn’t have worn the same clothes if we’d wanted to. Not that either of us had much interest in clothes because nothing looked good. Now we’re both a size 10 0 we love going clothes shopping together and we’ve discovered our tastes are the same.

LighterLife was different from all the other diets we’d tried – and believe me, we’d tried them all. Once we’d got through the first week we knew that this time we’d succeed. It’s medically monitored and it works because you don’t have to think about food – each week you just have a nutritionally complete supply of soups, shakes and bars. The real difference though, was the group sessions with a qualified Counsellor which helped us identify the reasons why we over-ate.

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12 www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

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Toothill tidied up

A sixty strong team of council workers were joined by six residents for a safe and clean day at the end of August to blitz Toothill’s graffiti, litter and dumped garbage.

Over sixty bags of litter were collected along with 1.6 tonnes of fly tipping. Graffiti was removed from 16 utility boxes as were an astonishing 256 tags. The walls surrounding a kick about area were painted by offenders on probation.

Twelve households also received letters from the council reminding them not to put out wheelie bins too early and another eight were spoken to about accumulations of waste outside their property. Once

all the debris was removed, a stolen handbag was recovered by police.

As well as removing rubbish the team, which included Swindon Borough Council officers, Commercial Services staff, the police, probation and fire services, offered advice to local residents.

Seven householders requested fire safety checks of their homes and some had home energy checks.

Several dog owners were advised about animals wearing dog tags.

Hitting the litter, neighbourhood wardens and housing officers from left, Chris Slade, Tony Linter, Libby Cambridge, Ray Woodfield

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21/9/07 16:47:05

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

No preaching from pulpits for these pastors A church initiative that has seen anti-social behaviour and rates of street crime plummet in London boroughs hit the night spots of Swindon at the end of September.

Patrols of Street Pastors, wearing distinctive blue jackets and baseball caps, will provide a calming presence, a listening ear and a helping hand. Twenty-two volunteers from seven churches across the town completed their twelve week training which started in June and will be on the beat from 28 September.

Their aim is not to preach at people but to demonstrate their beliefs in a practical way. That could involve defusing a violent situation, helping somebody get home safely or being a shoulder to cry on.

When Jane Perrot, who moved recently from Freshbrook to Old Town, read about the scheme coordinated by the Ascension Trust, earlier in the year, she was galvanised into action.

She had spent many evenings searching the town centre for her 14 year old daughter, who was caught up in a cycle of drinking and drugs.

Walking the streets in the early hours of the morning, Jane could see the need for a caring presence in the scenes of mayhem that anybody who has been near the town centre pubs and bars on a late night will have seen.

She spoke with friends and church leaders and discovered that Rev Paul Rush had recently moved to Swindon. He had already established Street Pastors in Leicester and agreed to co-ordinate the scheme here.

Rev Rush said the street pastors will be looking for people who need practical assistance. “It could be a girl who has had a bust up with a friend and is in a panic about how she will get home - we’ll put her in a taxi. Or maybe somebody in a drunken state has lost their shoes.

We’ll be carrying flip-flops so that they don’t cut their feet on the broken glass that’s everywhere.

“Swindon is not a bad place of a evening; most people are just out for a good time. But if one person is in distress or needs help after a fight, then we’re there to help. If they say they’re OK, we will walk away from the situation.”

Now that her daughter has overcome her problems, Jane hopes she can save others some of the distress she experienced. “If street pastors had been around, it would have been another pair of eyes and someone for her to have spoken to.”

For details, and to donate money and new flip flops, see details at: www.streetpastors.org.uk

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 13

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Mural reflects the world of Taw Hill children

North Swindon vicar Reverend Mike Haslam has been spreading the message of God in a creative way to the children of St Francis Primary School in Taw Hill.

In July he worked with a group of pupils to create resented important messages. “The one of Isambard a tryptch of murals which welcomed the children on Brunel is about how good work pays off, it encourages us to work hard. And the other panels represent caring their return to school in September.

Rev Mike said he had been keen to find a way of for the world, and friendship.”

Rev Mike said he wanted features from the children’s giving the school hall more character and engaging children and their everyday experiences. Drawing on lives to be represented: their town, school, and world, his skills as a painter, he and headteacher Clive Westall and also how these connect with God. The murals condecided murals would be a symbolic and attractive tain football, homes in North Swindon, and railways which made the town famous. The three panels are way of giving the hall both decoration and colour.

Year 5 pupil Kyra Jenkins, said, “we feel special linked by a continuing theme of sky, land and sea.

“It was great fun and the kids enjoyed taking part. to be involved. We got to make the mural our own, and Rev Mike used our ideas and designs, and put Working in oil paints is a different medium for them, and they loved getting their own ideas across. I hope them together.”

James Turner said he thought that the murals rep- they enjoy the end result for years to come.”

Rev Mike Haslam and Year 4/5 pupils show off their work before it was mounted in the school hall

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21/9/07 16:47:39

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

The Link will boost local knowledge at Isambard

The first ever pupils arrived at Swindon’s latest school on 10 September ready to make history.

Dressed in distinctive gold and black the 200 Year 7 children will enjoy being the first to try everything at their brand new school, the first new secondary school in the town to open with a leading Year 7 group since Greendown in West Swindon in 1986.

The Link has been carrying stories about secondary school provision in the North Swindon development area since August 2000 when Swindon Council first launched a public consultation on when and how a school might be built.

To say the least it was a saga and nearly every twist and turn was chronicled in the magazine. Indeed the school could have opened in Stella Rogers with a few of the first Isambard youngsters holding back copies 2003 or 2004 but for failings within Swindon Council - which have long Link invaluable for researching local books in boxes - but no shelves to put them on. Ordering and supply been rectified. Nevertheless there projects and for general interest.

“Living in Haydon Wick I’ve read of equipment was running behind are many parents and children disappointed they could not benefit about the North Swindon school schedule was the official explanafrom brand new facilities in their since the building project was first tion.

“It’s going to be a vibrant, interannounced in the July 2005 Link, so own community.

We have presented the Isambard I was delighted to be appointed as esting place to learn and build on knowledge acquired in the classlearning resource centre with a set learning resource manager.

“My role is to encourage children room,” said Stella. of magazines going back several years to the early days of North to use books and local documents Have you kept your Links? for research, rather than dive for the We would like to present copies Swindon.

Librarian Stella Rogers, who was computer and use the first reference going further back in time to Isamassistant at Greendown, asked if we they pick up from the internet.” bard. If you can spare them, call us Unfortunately Stella started term on 608840. could offer back copies. “From my experience the pupils will find The with a desk and several thousand

15

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16 www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

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Specialist school launch, part 2

Greendown Community School’s open day on 20 July to celebrate its new specialist status in maths, computing and sport was curtailed by the historic rainstorm and flood that hit the country.

The community afternoon has • learn more about recycling been reorganised to take place on from Green Standards Waste to Friday 12 October, 2.30pm to 5pm. Wonder; The public are invited to the school • bid in a grand auction for golf lessons, fishing at South in Grange Park to: Cerney, passes to the David • try a challenge in the Lloyd club and signed footballs newly installed fitness suite;

by STFC players; • shoot-em-up in laser quest; • discuss with staff how children’s • play 5-a-side football education will benefit from competition; maths, computing and sport • have a go at experiments specialist status. from the Science Museum;

North primary school visit welcome

Catherine Wayte Primary School, Abbey Meads is holding an open evening for parents and children starting primary school in September 2008 on Thursday 4 October, 6.30pm.

Visit the classrooms, meet the headteacher and staff, and learn about the induction process.

Applications for primary school places have to be submitted to Swindon Council by 9 November.

Stellar performance

by Bradon Forest pupils

With a huge haul of grade A*s, the Purton school believes their GCSE results could put them at the top of the class, nationally.

Three students achieved straight A*s in all 12 of their GCSEs. Former Brook Field pupils, Xinmei Wang, Sophie Madley and Rachel Blackford, also earned an A grade each at Maths AS level.

The three friends had even more to celebrate, as Sophie’s Food Technology result put her in the top 10 nationally and Rachel was in the top 10 for Business Communication Systems.

Rachel’s success Bradon head Len Spiers with high achievers, now at was made more Cirencester College, from left, Rachel Blackford, Xinmei remarkable as she Wang, Sophie Madley missed almost 12 months of school after she was girls have also decided to attend. diagnosed with Hodgkins Disease.

This year’s results set a new When chemotherapy left her feeling record for Bradon Forest, with 24 too weak to go to school for much per cent of students achieving A*s of the first year of GCSE studies, and As. Performing Arts Manager, the determined youngster worked Jennifer Cady, said, the result could from text books at home. be unique across the land. “We can’t “We’re so pleased for her,” said find any other school locally, regionmum, Linda. “We knew how hard ally or nationally that has three 12 she’d worked but didn’t know if straight A* GCSE students, with AS she’d covered the whole syllabus. Level at A grade.”

It’s a reward for Rachel after three “I am delighted with the success years that have been really dif- of all the students,” said headteachficult.” er Len Spiers. “It is a testament to all With her sights set on a career in their hard work, Bradon’s excellent law, Rachel is now studying Maths, team of teaching and support staff, Economics, Politics and History at as well as the staff teams at our Cirencester College, which the other partner primary schools.”

21/9/07 17:09:08

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Mayor welcomes children to Millbrook with bags and bulbs

The Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon, Michael and Sue Barnes, arrived early on 5 September to welcome children to their new school formed from Freshbrook and Windmill Hill primary schools.

PANICKING ABoUT MATHS? Study in your own home with a fully qualified secondary maths teacher Maths and accounts taught at GCSE, AS and A2 Coursework guidance Limited places available Competitive prices

The Mayor with headteacher ClareGriffin-Felton and Millbrook youngsters on the first day of term

Dressed in their new purple sweatshirts adorned with a logo provided by the school governors, the juniors, now based on the former Freshbrook site arrived to be presented with a purple bookbag and a special tulip bulb to be planted in the school grounds later in the day.

A fantastic purple display is promised every Spring to remind the children of their first day at their new school.

Coun and Mrs Barnes then visited reception and infant classes currently located in the Windmill Hill buildings to present bags and bulbs.

The Mayor said, “it’s a historic day for the Freshbrook community, the sun came out, and the children looked very happy and excited to be in their new uniforms. It’s a lovely idea to give them each a bulb to remind everybody of the start of Millbrook.

New buildings for the Freshbrook site have been designed. Construction is due to start in Spring 2008 with a completion and moving-in date set for July 2009, so that the old schools can be removed over the summer holidays.

• Old uniforms to be sent to Romanian children in October. See page 51.

Call West Swindon Home Tutors on 870 495

17

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YEAR 5 & 6 OPEN EVENINGS

Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd October 6.15pm - 8.30pm Is your child currently in Year 5 or 6 in West Swindon? Thinking of the next step? Then you must come and see what Greendown can offer Greendown Community School is one of the most popular secondary schools serving West Swindon.

Our new Specialist Status in Maths, Computing and Sport is a reflection of our strength and recognises our high standards and excellent results.

At the open evenings pupils will personally show you around their school and chat about life at Greendown.

View some of our superb facilities, including: • a brand new Fitness Suite • a stunning Independent Learning Centre with state-of-the-art ICT facilities • two full size sports halls • separate bespoke dance and drama studios • ICT suites or laptop trolleys in every subject area • classrooms displaying pupils’ work, resources and equipment • have a go experiments in the science labs.

Teaching staff will be on hand to answer questions and the headteacher will give an informal talk to further introduce the school and answer your questions.

Fair Trade refreshments will be served in the large atrium where there will be information about our extensive extra curricular programme, one of the best in Swindon.

If the open evening dates are not convenient, just give us a call to arrange a daytime visit.

“The curriculum is good and the range and quality of activities outside school is very good.” Ofsted Report (2005)

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 17

21/9/07 17:11:50

18 www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Children’s centre opens up

Quilting Fayre For all your patchwork & quilting supplies

Call about joining a quilting group 91 Basepoint Rivermead Drive, Westlea Tel: 608705

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Children’s Entertainment From kids parties to corporate events, fetes and fun days.

We offer a creative & professional solution for all!

Face painting, nail art, hair wraps, T-shirt design, arts & crafts workshops and lots more!

Info. from Maddy Smithson on 01793 700269 or Mob: 07802 537876 e: maddy@smileycats.co.uk Also at the STEAM Museum Details from 466637

Beauty and Spa Treatments Tel: (01793) 615 985 Mob: 077 47 096 826 Located at: Optimum Health Services Groundwell Road

After some initial summer holiday meetings the Salt Way Children’s Centre is now starting to offer a regular programme for families living in Shaw, Prinnels, Nine Elms, Middleleaze, Ramleaze, Peatmoor, Eastleaze and Grange Park.

Funded by the Sure Start pro- ity of life. All parents, grandparents, gramme to improve services for childminders, foster parents and families with children under 5, the nannies, in fact anyone who looks centre is run by Kay Kane of the after pre-school children can use Family Welfare Association with the centre.”

She said services are building up assistance from family link workers and over the next few months there Annette James and Sarah Stace.

“We’re developing a one stop will be visits from health visitors shop for families,” said Kay. “Our and advice sessions on training and aim is to support parents to give employment, affordable childcare their children the best start, by im- and new groups like breastfeeding proving health, education and qual- support.

In October activities include: Tuesdays: Tea and Toast, 9.15am - 9.45am. Stay & Play, 10am - 11.30am.

(0 - 5 and carers) 50p per family Wednesdays: Drop in session, 9.30am - 11am Friday: German language toddler group, 10am - 11am During half term 22 to 26 October. Tuesday and Wednesday: Holiday Activity morning, 9.30am - 11.30am (0 - 5 and carers) 50p per family

Thursday 25 October. 9.30am - 11am. Activity morning for dads/granddads and male carers only, with free bacon roll. Be creative and get messy with your child.

For information about the Salt Way Children’s Centre, call 07717 506836.

Monthly offer Half leg wax only £7.50!

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A parent and toddler group where German is the primary language is looking for members who want their children to maintain their native tongue or develop skills in a second language from early on.

Activities include games, crafts and singing in German.

The group meets on Fridays, 10am to 11am, at the Salt Way Children’s Centre during term time. For details call Lisa Mullan on 340589.

Kids crafts with no clean-up

Inspired by her daughter, Tina Davies came up with a crafty way to ease the stress of getting creative with kids.

When two year old Marquita visited Studley Grange Leisure Park, she wanted to join in with the art activities but there was nothing suitable for her age. Mother of five Tina, from Rushey Platt, was convinced that parents would welcome the chance to share craft activities with their children without the worry of cleaning up afterwards. “There’s nowhere else in Swindon where you can go along at any time and have an art session with your child,” she said.

ArtiKraftyTots has a range of activities on offer, including cutting and sticking, stamps and stencils, card making, painting, colouring and play dough. In addition there will be seasonally themed days such as making Halloween pictures or Christmas crafts.

Although originally intended for tots, there is no age limit, Tina has seen that older children enjoy the sessions as much as their younger brothers and sisters. For a fee of £3.50, youngsters can stay as long as they wish and are welcome to leave and come back. “Mums don’t have to feel stuck at home. They can come here and let their child make as much mess as they want. Some say they haven’t done this kind of thing for years.”

The workshop is open every day at Studley Grange, Hay Lane, near M4 junction 16, except Mondays. For details call Tina on 0779 226 5885.

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 18

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Advice and information on parenting issues

19

Childminders, Support Groups, Pre-schools, WTC, Clubs, Education, Funding, Health

Children’s Information Service

There’s always something more to learn about parenting and the Children’s Information Service is inviting parents and carers of under 5’s to an informal morning of workshops on a wide range of topics on 13 October.

And with so much, often contradictory advice available, this will be a good chance to find out more, discuss ideas and pick up skills.

Experts will be on hand to talk about issues like school admissions, tax credits, positive parenting and healthy eating.

As well as workshops, there will be a range of stalls and exhibitions covering Parenting day organisers, Karen Wood and Jill Bourne topics such as basic numeracy, road safety, working with of reading with children in his own children and energy efficiency in unique style. the home.

The event on Saturday 13 Octo“The workshops will be fun and ber, 10am to 1pm, takes place at the interactive,” said organiser, Jill Haydon Centre.

Bourne. “In the craft session, there’ll This is an adult only morning and be a chance for adults to play with places must be booked in advance. play doh and get messy. During the The £2 entry fee includes refreshhealthy eating workshop, there’ll ments. Everybody will leave with be food to try and in all the ses- and a fantastic goody bag full of sions there’ll be plenty of time for useful information and free items. questions.”

For an information pack and to To round off the morning, chil- book a place , call CIS on 541786 or drens author Neil Griffiths, cre- info@cisswindon.co.uk ator of Storysacks, will provide Call for assistance with off-site inspiration about the importance child care.

A one-stop shop for FREE information!

Why not pop in and see us?

6 - 7 Theatre Square, Swindon Tel: 01793 541786 Email: info@cisswindon.co.uk www.cisswindon.co.uk Training, Parent & Toddler Groups, SEN, Schools, CTC, Nurseries and much more

Sharing harvest festival gifts

Youngsters from Headstarts Nursery in Westlea visited residents of Salzgitter Court in Toothill to entertain them with songs and to present tinned goods, sweets, cakes, fruit and vegetables donated by parents.

Right, Paulette Kingsmith, who has lived at Salzgitter Court since 1982, welcomes Headstarts children

‘Dancing Through Life’ The annual Tanwood School musical extravaganza at the Wyvern Theatre. 22nd to 24th November.

Tickets from the Wyvern box office.

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042 l

l l l l

An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 19

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play and garden Grant places available For information telephone: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

21/9/07 16:49:39

20 www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Haydon’s new head comes home

During his interview for the post of head of Haydon Wick Primary School, Simon Cowley’s thoughts were often miles away.

Total Beauty Concept from

78 Thames Avenue, Greenmeadow, Swindon Tel: 01793 520813 Ample free parking Simon Cowley with Haydon Wick youngsters at the beginning of term

r io e d r h n P t E to s t e W

He had travelled from Cairo, where he was deputy head of an international school, but had to leave his wife who was expecting their first child at any time. The day after he returned home, his son Noah, was born. “It was a fantastic week: I got a new son and a new job,” he said.

Chair of governors, Mark Edwards, said that it had been clear that Mr Cowley was right for the school. “We chose him because of his enthusiasm and drive and his experience. There is an opportunity to bring significant change in terms of the school’s culture.”

Swindon born and bred, Mr Cowley wanted to return to the town to raise his family. He grew up in Lydiard Millicent and attended Swindon New College before teacher training, but he has long connections with Haydon Wick.

Now living close to the school, he has a huge incentive to succeed in his new role. “This will be the school for my son so I’ll make sure it’s the best for him and the community.”

His son won’t be the first member of the Cowley family to attend; his great grandmother was a pupil of the old Haydon Wick school.

“I’m looking to inspire children here to create a learning environment,” said Mr Cowley. ”Developing technology means we don’t know what knowledge we’ll need in the future, we want to nurture children so that they learn how to learn.” www.haydonwick.swindon.sch.uk

Tuesday 9th - Saturday 13th October Tickets: £12 - £15 Ticket Office: 01793 524481 www.wyverntheatre.org.uk

1 - 21 Oct 07 12-9.indd 20

Cash for youth projects

Swindon Youth Bank provides small grants to young people aged 13 to 25 to run projects which benefit their community.

A panel of young people assesses applications.

For application criteria and a form, see: www.youthbankswindon.org

21/9/07 16:50:30

21

NAWAB’S • • • • •

Fabrics Indian suits and saris Jewellery Haberdashery Tailoring and curtain making service

k

abs.co.u

w www.na

Wyvern manager Andy Hill with the Gruffalo and her child

Tickets on sale for two Mayoral events for good causes

the Champion of the World before it transfers to London’s West End. There is plenty for adults to smile about with a comedy lineup including Jethro and new talent from Jongleurs. Girls Behind, featuring Maureen Nolan and penned by the writer of Girls Night, promises laughter and tears and some knock-out anthems.

The season will be rounded off with a spectacular version of Cinderella, starring Britt Ekland. A wicked stepmother, two very ugly sisters, a dashing prince and a pinch of magic look set to make this one of the theatre’s most captivating pantomimes.

HALLOWEEN

Friday 26 October 6.30pm - 8.45pm Saturday 27 October 6pm - 8.45pm

Blunsdon TO PURTON TADPOLE LANE Station Tadpole Lane NORTH SWINDON Tel: 771615 Trains: 11am-4pm Cafe, shop and HAYDON WICK WEST free parking SWINDON BLUNSDON STATION

A419

With the curtain up on the new-look theatre, the Autumn programme began on 25 September with a dramatic thriller, The Business of Murder starring Todd Carty, of Eastenders’ fame, followed by the children’s favourite, The Gruffalo’s Child.

Children are well catered for this Autumn with Professor Bumm, Whiff and Basil Brush to look forward to. There’s an opportunity to see a quality production with the Birmingham Stage Company’s adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Danny

Tel: (01793) 611869

Junc 6

PURTON ROAD

N DRIVE

DOW

MES

THA

MEAD WAY

Curious visitors keen to see the new look auditorium, were given tours of the newly revamped theatre on 22 and 23 September while younger theatre-goers enjoyed a bouncy castle, live entertainment and face painting.

B4553

And the show goes on at the Wyvern

Mon to Sat 10am to 4pm 25 Tennyson Street SWINDON

Licenced to carry out weddings and naming ceremonies www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

Participants are invited to buy tickets for a quiz night and a concert to raise money for TWIGS, the Swindon Therapy Garden at Cheney Manor and Swindon Cares, which this year is supporting the Swindon Samaritans, the Broadgreen Breakfast Club and the Swindon Centre for Multiple Sclerosis.

Quiz Night - Thursday 4 October, 7.30pm Fletchers Restaurant, 62/64 Fleet Street, Swindon.

Teams of four are needed, or join up with other individuals on the night.

Tickets at £8.50 per person include a meal. To book call 617896.

Charity Concert: A Celebration Of Youth - Sunday 14 October, 7.30pm Hilton Hotel, Great Western Way. A showcase for young musicians in the town organised by Stephanie Exell and hosted by Geoff Walters, music teacher and chairman of the Swindon Music Festival. Tickets £7.50 (conc £5) from Wyvern Theatre box office, tel: 01793 524481

The Mayor’s charity fund was boosted by two packed houses at the Curry Place restaurant in Rodbourne in August. Owner Mr Mahmod Ali presented a cheque to the Mayor and Mayoress coun Michael and Sue Barnes.

• The Lalbagh restaurant in Rodbourne Road is a holding a mayoral fundraising night on 15 October. To book a table, call Abdul Amin on 535511.

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 21

21/9/07 16:13:37

Swindon Wide

22

LANDLORDS

Are you looking for a reliable & competitive service on letting your property?

Swindon’s widest choice of discounted

Art & Craft products from

Framework Art & Craft Unit 35 BSS House Cheney Manor, Swindon

Then Evergreen Property Letting & Management Service is the choice for you.

See and feel the products before you buy, and get personal advice from our knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Well worth a visit!

Tel: (01793) 877285

Tel/Fax 01793 513069

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Email: Evergreenpm@hotmail.co.uk

Tailor-made

by SueLynn Curtains Pelmets Roman blinds Swags & tails Cushion covers No job too small For further information call

Sue: 01793 870451 or Lynn: on 01793 330595

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Line Dance

with

Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

Old Bell Pottery & Crafts High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS Knitting & Haberdashery

Sewing needs: X-stitch ~ Tapestry ~ Rowan ~ Jaeger ~ Patons ~ Yarns and Patterns We’ll also gladly order anything else you need.

Dolls houses & miniatures

Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the Stable

A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden

Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world

Mon to Sat 10am to 5pm • Sun 11am to 5pm

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 22

Search on for wartime heroines

The Science Museum Swindon is trying to track down women who worked on the World War II airfield during its heyday, between1939 and 1950.

Staff are keen to learn more about the experience of working on the Wroughton site and to capture their stories as background for the upcoming lottery bid.

During the war the site was the base for No.15 Maintenance Unit and planes flew into Wroughton from factories all over Britain to have weapons and equipment fitted before delivery to their operational units. Sixty two different types of aircraft were worked on at Wroughton.

Apart from the women ground crew, many of the civilian auxiliaries who flew the planes in and out of the site were women.

To offer your story, or if you know somebody who could add to the history of the site, contact Matt Moore at the Science Museum on 846229, or mail: matt.moore@sciencemuseum.org.uk

Win a collection of journeys across Britain

Coast and Map Man presenter, celebrated explorer, writer and broadcaster Nicholas Crane’s BBC series, Great British Journeys, is available on DVD on 1 October 2007 and you can win a copy worth £29.99.

All eight episodes come on a three-disc set and feature bonus footage not shown during the TV broadcast.

Combining all the key elements and characteristics that made Coast and Map Man so compelling, entertaining and informative, the series follows Nick as he sets out to retrace - by horse, bicycle and on foot - the journeys made by Britain’s greatest homegrown explorers on eight of the most extraordinary adventures of discovery ever made across ton’s Search for Scotland in his Bullnose Morris. the UK. Much like Coast, Great British From Daniel Defoe’s wild adventures through East Anglia to the Journeys is a fascinating and ingreat medieval journeys of Gerald spiring series about travel, geogof Wales, from Thomas Pennant’s raphy, landforms and the ways in 18th Century tour of Scotland and which ordinary, everyday people Hebridean island hopping to Wil- relate to the landscapes around liam Cobbett’s polemical Rural them.

The three-disc set will be reRides through the rustic beauty of southern England, Great British leased by Contender Home EnterJourneys looks at how the chroni- tainment on 1 October at £29.99. cles of these travellers informed the public of the day and how BritHow to win ain of the past compares to that of a copy the present.

Contender have made three sets Other journeys undertaken available to Link readers.

by Nick include William Gilpin’s All you have to do is name milestone exploration of the River three areas of Britain featured in Wye, Celia Fiennes’ epic 17th Great British Journeys.

Century journey on horseback Send your answers to The Link, from London to the Scottish bor71 Basepoint, Swindon SN5 7EX der, the Tudor topographer John

by Monday 15 October, or mail: Leland’s 300-mile tour of the West publisher@swindonlink.com Country and travel writer HV Mor-

21/9/07 18:12:44

Swindon Wide

23

Two favourites at STEAM

The evenings are drawing in and it’s getting chilly, but there are two great events in October, perfect for children.

To promote your site, call 602540 or mail: advertising@swindononlink.com

themed activities.

Normal admission prices apply for both weekends. See the advert below.

During half term Smiley Cats Kidz Club will be back at Steam on the mornings of 23, 24 and 25 October, offering fun activities like circus skills, parachute games, face painting, drama and arts and crafts.

The cost is £11 per session or £8.60 with a Swindoncard.

Call 466637 to book a place at 2:34 pm Cats Page 1 the Smiley holiday club.

FU

N FAM AT I ST LY EA M

!

The Great Western Lego Train Show on 6 and 7 October will have youngsters open mouthed with amazement. Apart from the massive model railway displays built entirely from Lego bricks, there will be lots of Lego play tables where children can build and create as well as Lego competitions, a shop for bargains and trade stands.

Young children will love to meet their favourite blue engine at the Day Out with Thomas event, on 20 and 2371 SteamAdvert 14/8/07 21 October, featuring many Thomas

THE GREAT WESTERN LEGO TRAIN SHOW

Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 October 10.00am to 5.00pm

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive Swindon For more details call 01793 466646 or visit www.swindon.gov.uk/steam Normal Admission Prices apply

Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 October 10.00am to 5.00pm STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive Swindon For more details call 01793 466646 or visit www.swindon.gov.uk/steam Special Admission Prices apply.

Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank Engine & FriendsTM Based on the Railway Series by Reverend W Awdry © 2007 Gullane (Thomas). A HIT Entertainment Limited

wwwthomasandfriends.com

STEAM MUSEUM OF THE GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 23

21/9/07 16:17:52

Swindon Wide

24

SUE’S GALLERY & FRAMING 105 High Street, Cricklade Tel. 01793 759016 www.suesgallery.co.uk Specialist framer of memorabillia, unusual objects, cross stitches, jigsaws Dry mounting and laminating Portrait commissions, limited edition prints etc.

Fine Art Trade Guild Commended Framer

24 HOUR PSYCHIC LINE Need some guidance in your life?

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Get your singing up to scratch

So many people have found their voice with Swindon Scratch Choir that a second singing group has been formed to cater for newcomers.

The Scratch Choir was created meet every fortnight at the Great for singers of all abilities, with no Western Hotel opposite the railage limits, no auditions and no way station.

In October, they will meet on need to read music.

It has gone from strength to 10th and 31st from 7.30 to 9.30pm. strength and has built a wide rep- The Scratch Choir continue to ertoire ranging from the Beatles, meet at Lower Shaw Farm on alTamla Motown and African chants ternate Mondays.

On 10 November, the choir to Forties swing, all performed usholds a rock and pop singing ing only voices as instruments.

Now that there are thirty regu- workshop along with Naked Voiclars in the choir it was felt that a es, from 9.30am to 3.30pm, at second group was needed. Re- the Broadgreen Centre. The cost cently joined members and new- is £10 for choir members, £20 for comers are invited to attend Up non-members. Call Linda Lee on to Scratch where they are taught 875184 to book a place. www.oodwooc.co.uk the harmonies for the songs. They

Are you mad about hats?

Woodlands Edge Peatmoor

Tel: 01793 887635 E-mail: 8041@greeneking.co.uk

www.woodlandsedge.co.uk

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS!

Great food, great entertainment, great company venue Book early for November and December reservations

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 24

After running her successful business for nine years, Sheila Parsons from Haydon Wick has decided it’s time to hang up her hats - all 170 of them.

She is looking for someone to on her tips and expertise as well take over her Mad Hatter business as her data base of customers and which hires ladies’ head wear for suppliers.

All the hats and bags in stock all occasions. It can be run from home and fitted around work com- are included in the sale. The busy mitments. Sheila started hiring season ended in September so hats while still working part-time there is time to handover before and has continued well into her re- things pick up again in April.

Sheila said, “all you need is a tirement. Now the time has come to reclaim the conservatory which love of hats. I’ve had a great time has served as dressing room and meeting nice people and hearing about various events. I think that hat store.

Regular adverts in The Link anyone who takes on the Mad have brought a steady stream of Hatter would enjoy it. An ordinary customers but it would be possible dress or suit can look spectacular to develop the business by attend- with the right hat.”

For details see the advertiseing wedding fairs or opening a shop. Sheila will be happy to pass ment on page 4.

New style estate agency is front page news

Tristan Brown of Forefront knows that his distinctive front page ads in The Link are effective, because of the number of copies of the magazine he spots while showing homes.

“Having our ads on the front page has been brilliant. It sits on people’s coffee tables and I often see a copy during viewings.

The main core of our business is across West and North Swindon, thanks to The Link.”

Celebrating six months in business, the agency located at the Basepoint Business Centre, has over 100 homes for sale. With no high street branch, or expensive cars to run, Forefront charge only £400 on instruction and £400 on completion, rather than a percentage of the sale.

“People think we’re too good to be true and want to know what the catch is,” said Tristan. “There is no catch, just recognition that house

sellers don’t owe estate agents a living.”

A cut price doesn’t mean reduced service though. Tristan has been joined by a team administrator to ensure that he is free to accompany the majority of viewings.

Whilst the details provided on the Forefront website are comprehensive, Tristan emphasises the need to show the houses in person to achieve sales and to give feedback to sellers. “We want to put the service back into the industry.”

21/9/07 17:23:55

Doing better business at

25

Since opening in January 2005, the Basepoint Business Centre on the Rivermead Industrial Estate in West Swindon has gone from strength to strength.

The centre has become a hive of activity with start-up businesses to established companies on a growth curve. These range from business-to-business support operations to all manner of retail and service enterprises, covering a wide range of needs from hair and beauty services to provision of mortgages, disability aids, extreme sports and dog grooming.

As well as the many first arrivals - such as Elevation Creative Studio, Kip McGrath education centre, Sensata IT and Swindon Link magazine, several new faces have arrived at Basepoint in the last six months including Quilting Fayre and from October the So Elegant ball gown shop.

Manager Beverley Reynolds says that most needs can be catered for. “There is such a diverse range of companies you won’t have to do business anywhere else.

What’s more it is truly a pleasant, welcoming business community.”

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 25

Manager Beverley Reynolds, left, and assistant Lynn Chapman

The attractions of the Basepoint concept are the easy terms for renting office or workshop space, as well as a great location on the edge of West Swindon which is quickly accessible to the M4, North Swindon and the town centre. “Our centres are aimed at start up, young and small businesses, so tenure is ‘easy in and easy out,’ said Bev. “Two weeks’ notice is all that is required to leave, whether it is an office or small industrial workshop. We really do make it easy for people to come and go.

Some companies moving to Swindon use us as an advance office for a few months, and others stay much longer. All business rates, waste disposal, service charge and external repair are included in the rents. The only extras are the electricity, telephone and broadband rental which are competitively priced.

“The variety of office sizes on offer is also an attraction. The smallest accommodation provides 144 square feet at £79 a week plus VAT, whilst the larger office units of 595 square feet can be rented at the reduced rate of £275 plus VAT. All modern digital telephone and IT facilities such as high-speed broadband are available.

“If you’re thinking of changing premises, or need somewhere to grow, the best thing is to visit us.

Do call me or Lynn Chapman on 01793 608800 to make an appointment to view a unit.” www.basepoint.co.uk

21/9/07 16:22:20

26 The striking thing about a visit to Basepoint is the sheer variety of businesses to be found in a relatively small location, and rather hidden until you foray behind the old Renault building. Lots of people have already found them, but the businesses are keen to tell others what’s on offer.

Time to review your mortgage?

Call us today on Swindon 602460 Philip Charles Mortgage Specialists is a trading style of Philip Charles Ltd.

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK • • • •

NECK PAIN BACK PAIN HEADACHES SPORTS INJURY

Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you.

Please call

01793 602454

Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike.

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon

Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC

Member of the British Chiropractic Association & College of Chiropractors. Registered with GCC

www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

For Radio Controlled, Model Cars, Trucks, Buggys, Planes & Helicopters

Massive Stocks - Great Prices - Great Service

Tel Free: 0800 0837477 microtechracing.com

107 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 26

Beauty and Health A hair salon on a business park might be a surprise, but Gemma McCarthy who recently launched Head Rush reckons it’s been one of her best moves. She’s been joined by hair stylist Julie Harris and beauty therapist Kerry Tsokos who are looking forward to a busy pre-Christmas period.

Close by is Palmer Cutler West holistic and beauty salon, set up by Liz Wright in July 2006. She and her staff offer a wide range of Uber beauty treatments, as well as self-tanning products marketed by Patsy Palmer. Liz said her customers find the secure, gated environment at Basepoint which is covered by CCTV assuring when they visit her salon of an evening and at weekends.

When Su Bhaji, right, came to Basepoint in 2006, she was unsure how the public would respond to her Enerqi acupuncture business. Eighteen months later her client list has grown considerably with people who find her acupuncture and reiki treatments provide considerable relief for a wide range of ailments.

Clare Duncan-Hawes is a well known chiropractor who has discovered Basepoint is an excellent setting for treating all manner of back related pain. She offers 20 minute consultations which includes a spinal health check.

Samantha Griesel opened a branch of Lighter Life at Basepoint in March and has seen her business expand to help customers shrink their waistlines. Recently ten of her super slimmer spent a day of pampering at Le Spa to celebrate the loss of nearly 500lbs. between them.

Pet care Hair of the Dog is run by Denise Jones. She had been thinking of starting a mobile dog grooming service until a visit to Basepoint changed her mind. Dog owners have been coming to her ever since - largely from advertisements in The Link.

When Kathy Hancox decided to expand her A Pets Dream internet based business selling pet food, clothing and accessories, the easy terms offered at Basepoint fitted her business needs, and pet owners have been flooding in since.

FREE ACCESSORY PACK WITH EVERY SPA PURCHASED WORTH UP TO £650.00 HOT TUB PRICING FROM £3,995 TRY BEFORE YOU BUY ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES SPA CHEMICAL RANGE CALL TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE WET TEST

Sunset Spas Ltd · 105 Basepoint Business Centre · Rivermead Drive · Swindon · SN5 7EX T: 01793 521411 · E: sunsetspas2@btconnect.com · W: www.sunset-spas.co.uk SITUATED BEHIND THE ALLEN FORD DEALER IN WEST SWINDON

21/9/07 16:22:46

27 Education The Kip McGrath education centre was one of the early arrivals at Basepoint.

Set up by David and Andrea Parkinson who were concerned that children were not receiving enough attention at school, either to support their remedial needs or to stretch them, the centre provides intensive tuition in English, Maths and Science. Apart from a boost in performance, children’s confidence grows enormously from the experience of personal attention.

So Elegant

Ladies cocktail and evening gowns in sizes 6 - 24

Opening Weekend

Yvonne Henson has found Basepoint ideal for her Quilting Fayre shop.

She sells a wide range of materials, threads and needlework items and runs free workshops, ideal for beginners and more experienced quilters. A recent visitor said quilting is a Leisure, pleasure and sports On 20 October Diane Wood sees her great way of relieving stress. dream come true. She used to be in Anne and Pete Parsons, above, have IT, but always wanted to sell beauti- also stepped into a brand new venful dresses. So Elegant at Basepoint ture by opening Sunset Spas. If you will sell cocktail and evening gowns fancy an ultimate luxury in your ready for the Christmas season and home, call them up now. in the New Year Diane will stock Model racing was always Kevin prom gowns and dresses for wedJohnston’s passion until five years dings. If you want to look good, a ago when he turned it into a busivisit to So Elegant will be essential. ness: Microtech. He sells model cars, aircraft and helicopters aimed at beginners through to the seasonal pro. It’s an ideal place to visit for boys toys Christmas gifts.

Left, Kevin, pictured with his team at Microtech Racing

20th & 21st October, 10am-5pm Fantastic range of gowns & accessories for proms, balls, parties, cruise wear, bridesmaid, weddings For more information call 01793 608822 94 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon

www.so-elegant.co.uk

THINKING OF BUYING ABROAD?

Call Neil now on 01793 602490

Rivermead Global Property, Unit 1, Basepoint Business Centre, Westlea, Swindon www.rivermeadglobalproperty.co.uk

Multi-sports for the enthusiast to the professional - helping you to go further

■ Triathlon running, cycling and adventure racing accessories ■ Selection of road, triathlon/ time trial and mountain bikes ■ Professional fully equipped workshop and a fully qualified mechanic.

■ The latest gait analysis software from Dartfish for exact shoe fitment ■ Custom bike and wheel builds ■ Lightweight tents, sleeping bags and stoves

www.bigadventurestore.com 108 Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead Drive, Swindon

Tel: 01793 48 88 82 Open: Mon 8am-6pm, Tues-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 9am-6pm

LOCAL, AFFORDABLE IT PROFESSIONALS WITH OVER 30 YEARS TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE A professional Microsoft Certified IT Services and Support company We provide, install and support a full range of IT solutions that deliver significant business value to small and medium sized businesses in Wiltshire and surrounding counties

Microsoft and Apple Mac

To get the best out of your IT call Sensata now 0845 014 1500 E-mail: sales@sensata.co.uk

www.sensata.co.uk

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 27

21/9/07 16:23:15

28

Basepoint tenants advertising elsewhere in The Link Enerqi page 35 Hair of the Dog page 39 Head Rush page 14 Kip McGrath page 17 Lighter Life page11 Palmer Cutler West page 35 Quilting Fayre page18

Brothwell & Company Accountants

Mortgages and property Tristan Brown set up Forefront Estate Agents in April this year offering a new approach to buying and selling houses. He’s not looked back since. See the article on page 24 of this edition.

We are pleased to announce the opening of our Westlea office at Basepoint Business Centre

• Easy access and free parking • Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm (evenings by arrangement)

• Financial accounts

Sole traders, Partnerships Limited Companies (Excl statutory audit)

• Management accounts to your requirements

• • • •

Justin Woodward, Jason Pinkney and Chris Peglar were all frustrated sportsmen working for high street stores and decided they could offer high quality service and equipment to Swindon’s growing number of demanding athletes. They opened the Big Adventure in August and have been taken aback by the enthusiastic response to their venture.

Taxation and Self Assessment VAT Payroll bureau/PAYE & NIC New business advice and forecasts

Phil Williams has twenty years experience in providing mortgages to Swindon’s booming house buying market. He moved to Basepoint to set up a branch of Philip Charles Mortgages where there is free parking next his light modern office, which customers can visit at times convenient to them.

Support from Sensata staff, Daniel Henderson, Olly Hammill, Mathew Parr

Please contact Andrew Brothwell for a no obligation discussion or meeting

Tel: 01793 602543 Fax: 01793 602544 www.taxstate.co.uk mail@taxstate.co.uk Unit 76, Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon

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21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 28

A property abroad is an aspiration for many people and Neil Hollingsworth set up Rivermead Global Property to provide high quality advice and information to ensure customers can invest wisely.

Like many start ups Andrew Brothwell was running his accountancy business Brothwell & Co. from his home, until it started to take over the house. The flexible terms and great location of Basepoint fitted the bill perfectly.

Backing up business Successful businesses rely on support in the background. Few can do with out their computers to keep on top of things and it’s important to have speciialists available to solve problems quickly and without disruption. Sensata has more than doubled its size since it arrived shortly after Basepoint opened in January 2005. They are Microsoft Certified Professionals and install and support a full range of IT solutions to keep your business moving forward.

Another first arrival was Sam Allen who set up Elevation Creative Studio a few months before Basepoint opened. The location is easily accessible to the clients of his design and marketing company who include Bloor Homes and the Priory Vale consortium.

MAKING YOUR INDEPENDENCE AFFORDABLE! Large range from £1199 of 4, 6 and 8mph Scooters

Sam Allen of Elevations

On the move Tracy Booth opened MTM Mobility in June so that customers with disability could try out wheelchairs, electric scooters and walking aids in a well appointed showroom/assessment centre. Basepoint is well located for their customers who can drive right up to the front door and try out the equipment on the smooth hardstanding outside.

The Link is also to be found at Basepoint. The location offers quick and easy access to cover stories in its West and North Swindon target areas, as well as the town centre, whilst the high speed communication links enables ease of production.

Whether you’re after Christmas gifts, want to look good for the party season or need help with your business - Basepoint could have what you’re looking for.

21/9/07 16:23:41

TWO GREAT VENUES - ONE FANTASTIC MENU AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK AT BOTH RESTAURANTS A LA CARTE AND OUR FAMOUS ALL YOU CAN EAT MENU Choose from over 100 dishes on Sunday - Thursday £16 per person. Fridays & Saturdays £19 per person and 20% OFF menu prices on all takeaways

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RESERVE A TABLE FOR YOUR BIRTH DATE If a table is booked for 6 or more the birthday boy or girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free. Birthday must be on actual day booked) Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner I.D. WILL BE REQUIRED

“A taste of the Orient in the heart of Swindon”

FREE BOTTLE OF WINE Book a table for 4 and receive a FREE BOTTLE OF WINE for every 4 guests (Offer only available on all you can eat and set menu, please present this voucher when ordering.)

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36-39 Haydon Street, Swindon Due to the remarkable success of Swindon Rendezvous we’re launching a fantastic new restaurant offering the best in oriental cuisine Be the first to enjoy this fantastic environment for an evening out Private function room for up to 20 guests

To book in our opening weeks, and for Christmas parties, call 526111 or 07964 405430

Christmas menu now available. Book now.

Oct 07 Proofs 20-9.indd 3

20/9/07 12:50:11

30

DISCOUNT PICTURE FRAMING CENTRE

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an outstanding selection • Church’s • Grenson • Loakes • Padders • Barker • Clarks • Rieker • Rohde Also an extensive range of slippers now in stock

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Theatre

Swindon Wide What’s

Monday 1st, 7.30pm The Vagina Monologues. Based on interviews conducted with women from all around the world, this hilariously witty and moving collection of tales gives voice to a chorus of lusty, outrageous, poignant, brave and thoroughly human stories. £16. Wyvern Wednesday 3rd to Saturday 6th, 7.30pm Rough Justice presented by Phoenix Players. James Highwood, a TV commentator, is on trial at the Old Bailey for the murder of his severely handicapped child. In conducting his own defence he is in conflict with the judge and the prosecuting counsel. £6, tickets from 525616. Arts Centre Monday 8th, 7.30pm Breaking the Silence: the story behind Rachel Carson. In 1962 scientist and ecologist Rachel Carson, published Silent Spring, a devastating critique of the links between governments, the chemical industry and agri-business, raising questions about the way humans were damaging the planet. Her work resonates ever more loudly.

Writer-performer Liz Rothschild presents stories never told about a remarkable woman.

Followed by post-show talk and discussion with Liz Rothschild. £6.

Arts Centre Tuesday 9th, 8pm Lifting the Mask. Musical theatre piece inspired by the life and works of celebrated poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, the son of two slaves and the first African-American to gain international eminence as a poet. £10. Arts Centre Tuesday 16th, 8pm Shades of Brown. Around the globe money and time is poured into tanning or bleaching the skin. Rani Moorthy, transforms into funny and poignant characters who share an ironic kinship through the one thing they cannot hide or hide from - their skin. £10 Arts Centre Thursday 18th, 7.30pm The Ripper Files. A spine-tingling whodunnit based on the world’s most famous case by John Goodrum. £10.

Arts Centre

Music

Wednesday 3rd, 7.30pm Dancing in the Streets. Motown’s greatest hits. Re-creating the energy, style and music of the stars of the Motown stable. £21.50. Wyvern Thursday 4th, 7.30pm That’ll Be The Day 2007. A unique mixture of 50’s, 60’s and 70’s Rock ‘n’ Roll and popular hits. £19. Wyvern Friday 5th, 2.30pm We’ll Meet Again. Hits from the Blitz - a celebration of wartime entertainment. £11. Wyvern

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 30

Saturday 6th, 7.30pm Swindon Male Voice Choir joined by the REME Military Band (Band of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers). £10 Wyvern Sunday 7th, 7pm Les Bruce Big Band with guest vocalist Hazel Godden in aid of The Community Foundation for Wiltshire and Swindon. £7, tickets from 692903 or 766129. Arts Centre Sunday 7th, 7.30pm A Festival of Music. Swindon Pegasus Brass Band presents Last Night of the Proms. Special guests Thamesdown Ladies Choir, Swindon Young Musicians, Swindon School of Brass. £8.50. Wyvern Sunday 14th, 7.30pm City of London Sinfonia perform Beethoven Egmont Overture Op. 84 Sibelius Violin Concerto Brahms Symphony No. 2 in D. Pre-Concert talk with conductor Douglas Boyd. £14. Wyvern Sunday 14th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series - family concert. Dominic Seldis, double bass and James Pearson, piano, will introduce many different types of music to adults and children. Lots of participation, including children on stage conducting and the audience becoming a percussion section. £5 from 612775. Arts Centre Monday 15th, 8pm Fairport Acoustic Convention. An intimate evening with Fairport Convention’s acoustic take on folk-rock music. £16.50. Arts Centre Wednesday 17th to Saturday 27th, 7.30pm & Sats 20th & 27th 2.30pm; Monday 22nd no performance Fiddler on the Roof performed by SALOS. Heart warming story following the life of Tevye, a poor Jewish dairyman who is searching for husbands for his three eldest daughters. £9. Wyvern Friday 19th, 8pm Bob Bowles Band. The popular local musician will be joined by Sam Kelly, drums, Stuart Rowe, bass and Paul Jobson, keyboards for an entertaining evening of rock and blues covers and original songs. £10. Arts Centre Sunday 21st, 7.30pm Dominic Kirwan performs songs from his latest album A Little Bit More together with many classic favourites. £14. Wyvern Wednesday 24th, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital - Paul Turner.

Piano works by Chopin, Beethoven, Sibelius, Sindling and Ginastera. £5.

Wyvern Saturday 27th, 2pm & 7pm The Big Package presented by Stage Struck. The show features songs from shows including Billy Elliott, West Side Story, The Beautiful Game, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Chicago. £9 tickets from 840757, Arts Centre

21/9/07 17:28:17

On in October

Children & Family

Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th, Tues 1.30pm & 7pm, Wed & Thurs 10am & 1.30pm, Sat 2.30pm & 7pm Danny Champion of the World.

Roald Dahl’s classic tale is brought to life using puppets, moving cars and your imagination. £12. Wyvern Thursday 11th, 7pm Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo. Ages 8+ £9. Arts Centre Saturday 13th, 10am to 4pm The Big Draw: ‘Me, myself and I’. How do you see yourself and others? For Family Learning Week, a fun-filled day of drawing for the whole family. Free.

University of Bath, Oakfield Campus.

For details call 328800 Saturday 13th, 2pm Aesop’s Fables. Three actors and a one man band combine with a host of colourful characters to magically recreate the most enchanting stories ever told. £6, family £18. Arts Centre Sunday 21st 11.30am & 3.30pm The Witches Bogey. Based on the classic Russian tale of Baba Yaga the Witch, this funky fairytale is guaranteed to delight anyone who’s ever lived, loved or blown their nose. Ages 6+ £9, children £7 (includes pre-show workshop) Arts Centre

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 31

31 Wednesday 24th, 2pm to 4pm What happened next....? Creative craft and story-telling. Make a glove puppet to tell your own stories. Ages 5 to 11. £5 per child, book on 466556.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Wednesday 24th, 3pm Whiff by Ian Whybrow. He is beautiful, well-behaved and his parents are very proud of him. But whenever Whiff goes off to make new friends, he comes home in disgrace. Whatever can the matter be? £7, family £24. Wyvern Thursday 25th, 2pm Professor Bumm’s Story Machine Silly fun with the Prof and his assistant Doctor Whee. Mayhem, mirth and mess are guaranteed. Ages 7 and over. £7, family £25. Wyvern

Dance

Tuesday 2nd, 7.45pm Walker Dance Park Music. Dance and music inspired by the body’s seven chakras. Choreography by Fin Walker, set to a powerful new score

by Ben Park. £11. Wyvern Monday 22nd, 7.30pm BanxyTriple Bill. Five leading UK Hip Hop stars join Banxy in an energetic performance. £14. Wyvern Wednesday 31st, 7.30pm Sclavi: Songs of an Immigrant. This depiction of the life of an immigrant is that of one reduced to material needs. £11. Wyvern

Talks

Banxy at the Wyvern, 22 October

Film

Friday 26th, 7.45pm An Inconvenient Truth. Al Gore’s ground-breaking Oscar winning documentary about raising awareness of global warming. SFS. St Michael’s Hall, Highworth Wednesday 17th, 7.45pm The Page Turner (15) A subtle psychological drama in which a young woman takes revenge on a pianist for ruining her childhood dreams. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 31st, 7.45pm The Lives of Others (15) Tense Oscar-winning thriller set in 1980s East Germany in which an actress and her dramatist partner are spied on by the Stasi. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join on any film evening.

Wednesday 10th, 5.30pm The Uses of Ignorance: Confessions of a Poet. UA Fanthorpe discusses some of the questions she has been asked after poetry readings. Free.

University of Bath in Swindon Wednesday 17th, 5.30pm Forgotten Wiltshireman: Thomas Stephens and the Mission to the East.

Nichola Fogg talks about the outstanding achievements of Jesuits in the late 16th century. Free. University of Bath in Swindon Wednesday 24th, 5.30pm Research into Near Death Experiences: Debates, Controversies and Difficulties. A special lecture for Halloween by Allan Kellehear. Free.

University of Bath in Swindon Monday 29th, 7.30pm Jimmy Greaves: An evening of two halves! Hear about his times as a professional footballer, laced with Jimmy’s trademark adult-orientated humour. £13.50. Wyvern Tuesday 30th, 12.15pm Under Devizes. Find out what lies hidden in the depths below the town. £6.50 including lunch. University of Bath in Swindon Wednesday 31st, 5.30pm Bristol’s Music and Musicians in the Region, Nation and Empire by Stephen Banfield. Free. University of Bath in Swindon

21/9/07 17:42:01

Swindon Wide What’s On in October

32

Comedy

D & L Blinds

Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds

QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free

Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

Lakeside Curtains

Made to measure curtains, blinds and soft furnishings Free design service Free quotation Fabric supply and fitting service available For quality workmanship and friendly service phone Karen on:

01793 539048

17 Hatherley Road, Nythe, Swindon

Friday 5th, 8pm Jongleurs Comedy Club. Over two hours of stand up comedy. Over 18s only. £10. Wyvern Monday 8th, 7.45pm Pam Ayres. The people’s poet performs material from her recently published book Surgically Enhanced along with some old favourites. £16.

Wyvern Wednesday 10th, 8pm Puppetry of the Penis. Eye watering contortions create shapes and objects including the Loch Ness Monster and the windsurfer. Over 18s only. £15. Wyvern Saturday 20th, 8pm

KUDOS FENCING SWINDON FASCIA Patios, decking & landscaping

Family business since 1983

For a Quality Installation

Exhibitions

Tuesday 2 October to Saturday 10 November Black History. The exhibition commemorates Black History Month by honouring the past and celebrating the experiences of black people living in the Swindon area. Free. Arts Centre Saturday 6th to Saturday 20th Swindon Artists Autumn Exhibition. Free, open during library hours.

West Swindon Library Saturday 20th to Saturday 27th, 10am to 4pm (closed Sunday) Highworth Artists’ Society Autumn Exhibition. Watercolours, pastels, acrylics and oils. Displayed work will be on sale. Free. Highworth Council Offices To August 2008 Resonant Forms. Exploring the dynamic relationship between artists’ ideas and the ways they structure their work. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Literature Local Family Business • All types of fencing installed • Full patio/decking service • Made to measure gates • All pressure treated timbers • Help/advice on all fencing & landscape matters

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t t 5% oun dver sc a di this th

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BUILDING MATERIALS FROM THE EXPERTS

Stephen K Amos. Confessional heart warming comedy fresh from the Edinburgh Festival. £12. Arts Centre Sunday 28th, 7.30pm Jethro. Comedy at its most outrageous from the Cornishman with a unique style of storytelling. £17.50.

Wyvern Tuesday 30th, 8pm Milton Jones Jones. Former Perrier Best Newcomer and Comedy Store regular. £10. Arts Centre

Fundraising

Side of Manor Garden Centre Cheney Manor Industrial Estate

Swindon. Tel: 484455

Block paving • Driveways Paths • Patios Rockeries Decking • Fencing • Pergolas Shingles • Cobbles • Turf FREE DELIVERY COMPETITIVE PRICES OPEN 7 DAYS

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 32

Wroughton Christmas Show Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 October Gifts and crafts Science Museum, Wroughton. £5 with free parking NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday 6 October 11am to 1pm £1. Oasis Leisure Centre To obtain a seller’s pack, send a cheque for £2.50 made payable to: ‘NCT Swindon branch’ and a SAE to: 2 Wyvern Close, Swindon SN1 4DL. Quiz Night In aid of Highworth Rec pool Friday 26 October, 7pm Bar and cold buffet Teams of up to 6, £5 per person Call 762602 Charity Tea Dance Monday 29 October, 2pm In aid of Prospect Foundation

Wednesday 10th, 7.30pm Changing Lives. Live performance of poems to music and moving images.

Poetry records the constant changes in our lives. If you are new to poetry find out what’s possible with poems when brilliantly performed. £6. Arts Centre Monday 29th, 7.30pm Doing it together. Reading is a solitary business but reading groups make it a social one. Meet others from the several reading groups around Swindon, and hear Sue Gee, an inspiring author and speaker. £3.

Arts Centre

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road Highworth Swindon Information Centre Regent Stret. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 University of Bath in Swindon.

Oakfield Campus, Marlowe Avenue.

Tel: 328800 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Calling crafty types Jellytots Playgroup are holding a ladies’ shopping night on Friday 23 November, 8pm to 10pm and are looking for art and crafts people interested in hiring a stall for the evening. All money raised will go to the group.

For details call Melanie Creighton on 07917 852260 or mail: melanie@creighton.entadsl.com

21/9/07 17:49:54

Swindon Wide

33

It’s easier to be part of the union

The turmoil in the financial markets in September has highlighted the need to keep money in a safe place and one of the safest and most regulated is a credit union.

New rules on membership of would like more people to consider credit unions has made them avail- saving with them as a way to support able to more people and will allow the local community.

Interest is paid on savings and them to join in a variety of settings, the deposits allow more low cost not just the union’s offices.

There are two credit unions in loans to be made. Anyone saving Swindon and everyone living or regularly is entitled to take out a working in the borough is able to loan and this can be a good way to join. Recognising that some people snap up a bargain in the sales or to were finding it difficult to get to the cover unexpected expense. www.swindoncreditunions.co.uk credit union office during opening hours, the unions have successfully applied for permission from the FSA Volunteers for bully to go out into the community. hotline needed The Clivey Credit Union was able to hit the road and head off to High- The National Bullying Helpline has worth to sign up new members. The moved to offices at Dorcan and is reaction was encouraging and they looking for people with a good telwould now welcome suggestions ephone manner and administrative about other suitable locations. skills to be the first point of contact “We can take the credit union to for people calling the charity for help the people,” said Julie Allen of Co- with workplace disputes.

Operative Futures, which supports The helpline, set up by Christhe credit unions. “We could go into tine and David Pratt from Abbey the workplace or public places.”

Meads, assists both employers and She would particularly like to hear employees. from the town’s employers who wish The charity wants to hear from to promote responsible saving. any CIPD professionals who can Julie said that credit unions are offer their services either on a volknown for helping people in difficult untary or associate basis. financial circumstances to obtain The full story can be found at: low interest loans. However, she www.swindonlink.com

A rainbow of colours to brighten up your home this Autumn!

Charisma Blinds - the place for quality and value Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds Full fitting service or cash and carry Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm Friday 9.30am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

• CARPETS • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL • UNDERLAY • ACCESSORIES No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions JUST THE RIGHT PRICE AND THE TRUE VALUE HOME SELECTION SERVICE Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

Call Mike Edwards

01793 480777 or 07834 685871 6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB

Anything Stone Showroom at Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon Tel: 08702 422 998

Granite Worktops Tiles, Fireplaces Bar Tops Commercial Projects

www.anythingstone.co.uk 21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 33

21/9/07 16:29:27

34

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

URGENTLY WANTED Avon reps in your area • No cash outlay • Immediate start • Part time hours to suit • Up to 25% commission

Tel: 01793 702557

Counselling Maria Konarzewska Dip. Hic. MBACP (Accredited) Counsellor Improving Confidence/ Self Esteem Reducing Stress & Anxiety Managing Anger & Depression Coming to terms with a Loss/ Change (for example bereavement, retirement, miscarriage) Relationships/self development

Tel: 01793 870878

SWINDON CYCLES

Superstore

With 250 bikes on show

As Nigel Pursall of Priory Vale lines up for the Swindon Half Marathon on 14 October his thoughts will be with his brother David who was killed exactly 20 years ago to the day.

Nigel and Alana David died, aged just 29, in a shooting in Bristol on 14 October 1987. The former police officer The pair will be joined by three was working as a data processing other family members: Nigel’s manager at Alexandra Workwear, twin brothers Tim and Jer, and when a gunman arrived on the David’s son Daniel, now aged 20. premises intent on abducting Cheering from the sidelines, will his former girlfriend. When she be proud mum and dad, Marjorie managed to get free, the gunman and Gordon. began shooting indiscriminately.

The family are not actively David tried to disarm him but seeking sponsorship but any was shot dead. He left a widow donations will go to the Carnegie and four-month old twin babies, Hero Fund Trust, chosen because Hannah and Daniel.

David is on their Roll of Honour.

“David always wanted to run To sponsor Nigel, mail: nigel@ the London Marathon, but his life orangestripe.co.uk was tragically cut short before he David with Hannah and Daniel, who had the chance,” said Nigel. will be running on 14 October Nigel has been training since last April with his daughter Alana, a qualified personal trainer. At first the 47 year old could not run 50 yards without walking another hundred. “I’m now a lot fitter and I’ve lost a stone,” said Nigel. “The runs are going pretty well and we are gradually building up the distance.”

Alana, who will be running with Nigel, said, “it’s not just about getting fit. I’ve spent lots of quality time with my dad: it’s a real bonding exercise.”

Lottery cash boost for junior bowlers

Thamesdown Indoor Bowls Club has received a £5,625 lottery grant so that a junior section can be developed.

Youngsters from the age of 8 upwards are welcome at coaching sessions at the Oasis Leisure Centre. Initial coaching will lead to a School of Excellence programme to work towards certificates. There will be a junior league and matches arranged with other clubs and juniors will later be able to play in adult leagues and friendly matches. The committee is aiming to recruit twenty junior members by the end of March 2008.

The club is also keen to extend its adult membership. For details of junior coaching times and adult sessions, call Ken Roe on 853798.

116 Manchester Road

The choice rs is you Parts,

Tel: 01793 423380

repairs, accessories, back up stock Open: Mon to Sat 9am to 5.30pm Closed Sundays

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 34

Half marathon takes on poignant tone

DAN’S CYCLES

THE price is right THE parking is free

Tel: (01793) 700105

Family prepare for moving memorial

60a Beechcroft Road Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown

• • • • • •

Stockists of many top brands Two floors • In-house workshop Wheel building Fast turnaround on repairs Mountain bikes • Kids bikes • BMX • Hybrids • Comfort Road bikes • Jump bikes • Tagalongs • Trailers Open: Monday to Saturday 9am - 5.30pm

21/9/07 16:30:34

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

HOMEOPATHY Eczema, Asthma Anxiety, Depression IBS, Bowel diseases Headaches & Migraines Whatever your health needs, homeopathy can help Also available

ALLERGY TESTING Ruth Derham, PHSH RSHom 4 High Street, Purton. 01793 772883

FACECHOICE PHARMACY

The local specialist

Optimum Mobility

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226

Acupuncture and Reiki Clinic · Wheelchairs – all types · Scooters – all types · New & Used

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 2.15pm - 6pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

· Rise/recline chairs · Proper service · Home visits

Showroom & test area at

Pinkney Park, Sherston

Malmesbury 01666 - 840060

Do you need ‘me’ time?

HYPNOTHERAPY TRAINING: Want to train locally?

11 Module Hypnotherapy Training locally taught by qualified, accredited teacher/full time practising hypnotherapist.

Accredited by National Council For Hypnotherapy(UK) and Guild of Hypnotists(USA) Information from Hilary Norris-Evans 01249-740506 or www.getmindfit.co.uk To download a brochure, click on the link in the training section.

Hilary Norris-Evans, C.I, BA Hons, DABCH, MCAHyp,NLP Cert., MNCH(Acc), AccHyp Sup

I can help you

You have a choice to move on and change what you are not happy with, using techniques such as hypnosis, complete mind therapy or Reiki to coaching & mentoring Call Danny - Reiki Master DHP. DCMT BSYA(I.H.) MAPHP

T: 01793 554763 M:07775 857238 www.njtcommunication.co.uk

Carnelian

‘bringing balance & harmony to life’    

Monday: 6.30pm & 8pm St John’s Church, Haydon Wick. Sharon 527332 Tuesday: 10am & 6pm Toothill Community Centre Sharon 527332 Tuesday: 6.30pm Abbey Meads Primary School Paula 701442 Wednesday: 9.30am Gorse Hill Community Centre Samantha 723416 Wednesday: 7pm St Francis Primary School Sam 01380 871707 Thursday: 6pm & 7.30pm St John’s Church, Haydon Wick Sian 726418

Looking for peace and tranquility?

Like to feel more positive about life?

Feeling stressed, out of balance or unwell?

Want some time for yourself?

We work with you to help you achieve a more balanced lifestyle with:  Reiki  Indian Head Massage  Crystal Therapy  Relaxation & Stress Control  Meditation & Visualisation  Personal Development Programmes Training also in Reiki I, II and Masters and short workshops.

Please call Jane Seward, Reiki Master/Teacher, MA on 07798 846191 or email: life@carnelian.org Reiki is also available for cats, dogs & horses www.carnelian.org

CELEBRITY ENDORSED AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS

PALMER-CUTLER WEST HOLISTIC & BEAUTY SALON 78 Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive, Swindon (behind old Renault building)

❖ 3D Semi Permanent Eyelash Extensions ❖ Luxury Manicures & Pedicures ❖ Waxing Treatments ❖ Eyebrow tinting/reshaping ❖ Bio Energiser D-Tox Spa ❖ Paraffin wax beauty treatments

NEED A COLOUR BOOST?

Tel: 01793 602456

OCTOBER SPECIAL

Give yourself a new lease of life

ÜBER Deluxe Facial

Su Bhagi Bsc(Hons) LicAc Simon Blemings Bsc(Hons) Lic Ac RN

Treatments for: headaches/migraine, joint pain, gastrointestinal conditions, muscular-skeletal stress/emotional, menstrual problems & many more

www.enerqi.uk.com

01793 608776

42 Basepoint Centre, West Swindon Home visits also available

BEAT THE BAN STOP SMOKING NOW Smoking is now banned in public places Are you still struggling to overcome years of ingrained habits?

Get some help Work with your subconscious mind through Hypnotherapy and become a lifelong non-smoker.

Group and 1:1 sessions tailored to your patterns of smoking.

Call 07711 561937 or email rachel@positiveresolutions.co.uk for a free no obligation initial consultation Positive Resolutions is based in Priory Vale & runs courses throughout the Swindon area

Kinesiology

What’s that then?

It’s a blend of ancient and modern therapies that uses simple muscle testing to find out which of the body’s systems are out of balance.

Gentle corrections are then used to restore the body’s inner balance and aid the body to start healing itself.

Kinesiology has successfully helped many people find relief from illnesses and ailments such as: ➤ Fatigue ➤ IBS, indigestion, bloating or unresolved gut problems ➤ Anxiety, depression, fears or phobias ➤ Hormone related problems ➤ Sciatica, neck pain, back or joint pain ➤ RSI or carpal tunnel problems

Cleanse, tone, exfoliate, mask, neck and head message all for £30.00

➤ Suspected food allergy/ intolerance - no needle testing for over 200 substances

(approx 60 mins) (Valid Oct-Nov)

Kinesiology could help you

Book now and get your first self tan for £20, normally £29 Valid to 30.11.07

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 35

35

Gift vouchers available for the extra special person

For more information call Mary Matthews on 01793 813606

21/9/07 16:31:11

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

KUDOS FENCING SUPPLIES LTD. Kudos

To Purton

.

...

...

...

... .......

From M4 J16 & West Swindon Wootton Bassett

To Brinkworth

..

... ● All

....

......

....

.

Netballers return for centenary Oxford Brookes University marked 100 years since its Swindon building was opened as Ferndale School in September 1907 with an exhibition and visits by former pupils and local children dressed in Edwardian clothes.

Players wanted for Link league

Squash players are needed to boost the squash league based at Link Centre. Players of any standard can join at any time and have six weeks to play four or five matches.

Drop into Link Centre reception and talk to Shirley Burden or call her on 445566.

fencing ● Gates ● Chain link

Hitting out

● Trellis ● Decking ● Tools ● Fixings ● Cement ● Trade

& DIY welcome

Hundreds of people across the town got involved in Swindon Get Active Day, including seniors at George Tweed Gardens in Shaw.

Tel: 01793 855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Enterprises Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

Doreen King puts aside her walking aid to play croquet with help from Lifestyle health and development officer Carol Jones

A new look kitchen for less money ■ Replacement doors made to any size ■ Extra units available ■ Worktops, sinktops and accessories by leading manufacturers Showroom at: 39 BSS House Cheney Manor Ind. Estate Open: Tues to Fri 10am-4pm Sat 10am-2pm or by appointment For free quotation and computerised design call

01793 644600

Coun Michael Barnes with netballers Angela Blake and Julie Harris

The university offers courses in health and social care, as well as public osteopathy clinics.

The Mayor of Swindon toured the building and met Joy Blake of Ferndale Netball Club, the oldest in town which traces its history back to the early 1920s.

The club, coached by Angela, now trains at Greendown in Grange Park. To join call 872237.

I Love My Curves!

YOUR LOCAL PVCU MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

Sue ‘Before’

Why not let us handle everything from start to finish?

Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 0AS

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 36

Sue Szulc, 47, of Swindon, has a new lease on life...

She’s lost 3 Stone and 45. 5 inches at Curves and feels like a new woman!

Discouraged due to piling on weight after quitting smoking, Sue saw an advert for Curves, a ‘gym’ with a difference: “30 minutes, no men, no mirrors!” She joined the next day and is very glad she did!

Karen ‘Before’

So much so that she told her daughter Karen about Curves. They often come in together and find it’s great mother and daughter time.

‘After’ Karen, 23, has lost 2 Stone 11 pounds, and 37 inches so far. “I can’t imagine life without my Curves!” says Karen.

“It’s a total body workout in only 30 minutes, combined with an optional weight-loss program. And it’s fun and fast! Everyone is really nice and you get so much support.”

Over 4 million women in 56 countries worldwide have discovered the Curves difference. Call us, and find the power to amaze yourself.

30 Crombey Street, Swindon

01793 698400

Over 11,000 locations worldwide

www.curves.com

21/9/07 16:31:51

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

CHERRI ANN MATTHEWS

NEW BEGINNER KICKBOXING CLASSES!

I.T.E.C.(dip), I.I.H.H.T Qualified member of the International Council of Holistic Therapists

IIHHT FICHT ATLM

• Lose those extra pounds, get fit • Learn to defend yourself • Meet new people • Train in a safe & friendly environment • Come & train with 5th Dan, Clive Elliott & his team.

07767 607170 07879 404021

www.cliveelliott.net Classes @ Orchid Vale School, Haydon End

ADVANCED REFLEXOLOGIST Mrs Lesley Taylor MCFHP, MAFHP, MIIR, MAR

Corns, Calluses, Verrucas, Thick Nail or Heal Pain Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 or 01793 849914 Clinic at 113 High Street Wootton Bassett

Treatments in Reflexology & Reiki, EFT, Ear Candling and Massage

Qualified & Certificated Personal Trainer Nutrition & weight management consultant Torso, Core, Circuits & Kids Fit Instructor GP Referrals

Banish fears, phobias, addictions and mental/emotional blocks holding you back with EFT See web site for details of Reiki courses, EFT workshops & special offers

Reiki Master/Teacher, Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner & Holistic Therapy Lecturer

Mobile: 07833 582788 E-mail: lslinn@supanet.com www.lspersonaltraining.com

t: 01793 871410 m: 07720 635761 www.cherriannmatthews.co.uk

FOOTCARE IN YOUR HOME

DO YOUR FEET NEED CARE AND ATTENTION?

Corns • Calluses Verruca • Foot massage Nail infections Thickened skin & nails Medical pedicure

ROBERT S TAYLOR MCFHP MAFHP

Visiting Practice Appointments by Arrangement DEBBIE FRANCIS

MCFHP MAFHP Registered Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

Tel: 01793 727217 or 07808 037815

Achieve Success

For all your foot care needs: Pedicure, corns, calluses verrucas, thickened nails Nail Infections.

37

• Reflexology • Relaxing Massage • Remedial Massage Therapy • Eastern Head Massage • Hopi Ear Candling • Reiki Healing

Deborah Goodge Call today: 01793 870426 Nine Elms, Swindon www.holistic-therapy-clinic.co.uk

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Kathryn Gater MCFHP MAFHP

Registered member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

Home visit service Evening appointments

■ Home visit service ■ Routine foot and nail care, fungal infections, thickened nails, corns, calluses, verruca, hard skin removal, foot massage ■ Day, evening and Saturday appointments

Call 01793 695302 Mob 07753 143621

Tel: 01793 348004 or 07789 542282

Foot Health Checks and Foot Massage

B TO NOW OOK BE F R C OR OU RS E

OC

PILATES CLASSES Shaw 24 Hour Gym Haydon Wick Priory Vale Taw Hill

Mon: 6 - 7pm Shaw Mon: 7 - 8pm (Beg) Tues: 10 - 11am Cricklade Tues: 6.30 - 7.30pm Tues: 8 - 9pm Wed: 7.30 - 8.30pm Thurs: 6.15 - 7.15pm (Beginners)

Haydon Wick Cricklade Priory Vale 24 Hour Gym

Mon: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) Mon: 7.30 - 8.45pm Priory Vale Tues: 7.30 - 9pm Wed: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) Fri: 12 - 1.15pm (Beginners welcome)

S

YOGA CLASSES

Mother & Baby Yoga Relax and bond with your baby Thursday 1.30 - 2.30pm Friday 1.30 - 2.30pm

Bobbies Dance Studio, 24 Hour Gym

A place of tranquility for body and mind situated in The Pavilion - at Blunsdon House

Tel: 01793 720609 Yoga 4 Children (4-10 years) Friday 4 - 4.30pm Improve confidence, concentration & co-ordination Bobbies Dance Studio, 24 Hour Gym

Details of all classes from Dawn Morse BSc (Hons) on 700659 www.achievesuccess.uk.com

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 37

Blunsdon, Swindon, SN26 7AS www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

21/9/07 16:32:18

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

“Making life better for you and your pet” Care - always Compassion - for you and your pet Communication - we listen Continuity - of care throughout your pet’s Cost - good value, great offers Convenience - a clinic near you Car parking - plenty!

Thameswood Veterinary Clinic

Open:

62 - 64 Purton Road Swindon SN2 2LZ (end of Akers Way) Tel: 01793 526780 Monday to Friday, 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 9am - 11am

EXTENDED SATURDAY OPENING HOURS 9am to 1pm FROM 16 OCTOBER

24 Hour Emergency Service. Tel: 01793 526780 www.thameswoodvets.co.uk

Cycling challenge and fun day in memory of Purton organic farmer

Purton House organic farmer, Rowie Meers, is about to set off from Lands End to John O’Groats to fulfil plans made with her husband Alex when he was being treated for leukaemia.

During seven months of hospital treatment, Rowie and Alex’s younger brother Matthew hatched a plan to complete the cycling challenge. Matthew had begun to cycle as a way of getting to and from the hospital and found it therapeutic. Rowie recalls that they all joked about doing the ride, with her and Alex on a tandem.

Sadly, Alex didn’t beat cancer and died, aged just 40, at home with his family in May last year.

Following his death, Rowie wanted to do something to make sure he wasn’t forgotten and set his beloved organic farm. Alex up the Your Day Foundation. The and Rowie’s three children and aim is to raise funds for charities other supporters will join the core with causes which were important seven riders on a fun ride from Chippenham to Purton. to Alex.

“We want to do it in the spirit Rowie and Matthew will be joined by five family members of Alex who had a good sense of and friends on the ride. They have humour,” said Rowie.

Details of how to support devised a route to take them past places of significance to Alex, the ride can be found at: www. including Redruth where he was yourdayfoundation.org born and Launceston where he went to school. The detours take the total distance to 950 miles.

On the fourth day of the journey, 28 October, they will call into

Paradise Pets Ltd “Just 10 minutes from Walmart and West Swindon” re’s Wiltshi cialist spe largest store. pet soon Visit us

❈ Cage & aviary birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, reptiles ❈ Plenty of free parking ❈ Holiday boarding for rabbits and guinea pigs ❈ Food & accessories for all your pets

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

The Only ‘RCVS Specialist’ staffed, Exotics Specific practice in the southern half of the UK is in Swindon.

Three vets working only with exotics

Cat and Dog Vets treat cats and dogs Exotic vets treat all other companion animals Exotic vets know about and understand exotic animal health and management.

Visit us and benefit from expert care for your ‘special family members’ Vet and nurse on site 24/7.

RCVS Approved Veterinary Hospital

Special pets deserve special care

01793 603800

exotics@gwreferrals.co.uk

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri: 9am-5pm; Sat: 10am-5pm Sun & Bank Holidays 10.30am-4pm

Tel: 01793 512400 www.paradisepetsswindon.co.uk

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 38

21/9/07 16:33:00

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Dog walk to save Chinese bears

Denise Jones who runs the Hair of the Dog salon was so moved by an article in the August Link about Dave and Sarah Chilvers’ plan to walk the Great Wall of China in aid of Animals Asia Foundation, that she is organising a fund raising dog walk from West to North Swindon and back on Sunday 28 October.

The foundation runs a bear sanctuary in China and campaigns to end the cruel practice of bear farming and milking them for bile used in traditional medical preparations. Dave and Sarah were some of the few Westerners able to visit the sanctuary after their Great Wall trek.

To boost their fundraising target - see www.justgiving.com/ sarahanddavechilvers - Denise wants dog walkers to join her at 10am for a five mile walk from the Hair of the Dog salon at Basepoint

Dog day for a good cause

A dog focussed day in Haydon Wick on 2 September raised £250 for Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases (CLIMB).

It was the fourth fundraiser for the charity organised by Janet Garrett, at her Haydon Wick Farmhouse on Pond Street. Her first grandchild Jamie died shortly after birth from an rare metabolic disorder in 2004.

Earlier this year she set up Janet’s Puppy Skool and she took the opportunity to invite students to bring along their dogs for a day of competition, whilst owners bought tea, cakes, crafts and goodies for charity.

Janet, centre, with Carolyn Stone, centre right, and daughter Natalie, from Shaw representing CLIMB

Business Centre on Rivermead Drive, heading to North Swindon along the River Ray parkway, stopping at a pub for refreshment before heading back.

The cost of taking part is £5 which should be paid before 28 October. Wear good footwear and bring rain gear as the walk will take place no matter the weather.

Drop into Hair of the Dog to register or call Denise on 608747 or 07866 507633.

Got a DOG?

Help your dog to learn good manners & social skills in one of our fun & friendly classes Kennel Club Good Citizen Listed Status School

Puppy only class Adult beginners class Work towards an “Award” class One to One training See the website for course details and dates of our special fun agility, clicker and obedience workshops in October, or call Janet Garrett M.I.A.C.E. on 01793 727158

www.janetspuppyskool.co.uk

39

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

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

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 01793 873062 email: sm4hannahlightfoot@talktalk.net

74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

Professional friendly service in a large modern salon for every aspect of your dog’s grooming needs Collection & delivery service Appointments not always necessary

Call 01793 608747 or 07866 507633 www.hairofthedoguk.net October offer Westies grooming - only £20

Check ups for seniors

Drove Veterinary Hospital is offering free senior pet health checks from late September and through October.

Anyone with a dog or cat over the age of nine is entitled to claim a free check by contacting any of the hospital’s 10 branches.

For further details call the main hospital on 522483. Owners must register or be registered with the hospital.

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 39

21/9/07 17:26:12

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

40

ALISTAIR FREETH LANDSCAPE SERVICES (Est 1990) ❖ ❖ ❖ ❖

Fencing and gates supplied and erected Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden maintenance

Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940247152 35 Spencer Close, W Swindon

GR8results

MOBILE CAR REPAIRS

DRIVER TRAINING SPECIAL OFFER

• Servicing • Repairs • Brakes • Exhausts • M.O.T. • Free call out • No VAT

First 3 lessons for the price of 2 • Refresher lessons • Motorway lessons • Pass Plus Call Graham Cross on:

01793 705413 or 07736 429636

SLATER’S MOBILE SERVICES

Tel: 079999 44262

gr8results@fsmail.net www.gr8results.co.uk

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Electronic tuning ★ Welding ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee)

For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

cam belt replacement engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds electrical fault code reading MOT repairs Air-Con service £58.75 vehicle sales inc. VAT servicing to light commercials

Open 8.30am 5.30pm

Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667

39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Ivel)

I N D E P E N D E NT

BMW & MERCEDES SPECIALISTS • Fixed Price Service & Inspection • Full Diagnostic Service • Full Air Conditioning Service

PC AUTOCARE

01793 772542 Unit 1 Bagbury Park, Lydiard Millicent

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 40

Rebranding Haydon Wick

Haydon Wick Parish Council wants a new logo to put them on the map and is calling on residents to come up with graphical suggestions.

Inspired by the request in the May Link for logos to represent community areas of West Swindon, the parish council is running a competition to find a design.

The winning entry will appear on the next edition of the North Swindon map published by The Link. Logos created by developers appear on the current version, leaving Haydon Wick as the only area without a distinct identity.

The closing date for entries is 31 December.

Bluebell Wood to blossom again

Haydon Wick residents heard proposals by environmental expert Neil Pullen, of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, for the management of Bluebell Wood, off Westfield Way, at a public meeting on 27 September.

After good support for two be opened up to make it more clean up mornings in the wood accessible. “Neil explained his in June, the parish council asked proposals and we hope to form a Neil to assess the ecology of the group to take them forward and to area and suggest measures to find funding.” enhance and improve the wood Whilst chainsaw work on large which formed part of the original trees will have to be undertaken farming landscape before town by experts, coppicing trees on an expansion to the north started. annual rotation can be done by Chair of the parish council the general public. Once sight Richard Hailstone said that the lines are opened up into the area is not very inviting at the woodland, trained volunteers can moment because of the dense plant wildflowers and new trees undergrowth and lack of defined to improve the variety of plants paths. He hopes the wood can available to wildlife, whilst leaving rough areas for beetles Bluebelle Wood, top left, north of Haydon Centre and bugs to improve the ‘eco-tone’ of the area.

Neil also talked about the possibility of building a bridge across the ditch to create a clear entrance, making a seating area using upturned logs and laying wood chip pathways.

To find out more about the plans for Bluebell Wood or when further volunteer work days are planned, call the parish council on 722446.

Cutting again in Peatmoor Copse

A remnant of the ancient Bradon Forest which covered much of North Wiltshire a thousand years ago, close to relatively recently built Peatmoor lagoon, is in need of attention again.

The woodland group meets on For nearly 20 years the area has been managed by the volunteer the first Sunday of the month, Peatmoor Community Woodland 10am to 1pm, and welcomes more Group, who, throughout the win- help. Full training and superviter months cut back hazel, ash and sion is provided and children can alder by hand to encourage new take part if with an adult. The area is not suitable for wheelchairs and growth and diversity of wildlife.

Warmer weather due to climate there are no toilets on site.

The group will also be organchange means that trees are in leaf for a longer period which has ising hedge laying days over the reduced the number of months winter.

For details of the woodland when coppicing can be undertaken. Therefore more volunteers are group and directions to the copse, needed to achieve the same result call Roger Ogle on 608840 or mail: roger_ogle@mac.com in a shorter period.

21/9/07 16:34:15

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Highworth Landscapes

Electrical & Building Services Est. 1977

Patios • Paths Block paving • Drives All walling inc. natural stone Lighting • Decking Fencing • Pergolas All types of water features Tel/fax 01793 764362 Mobile: 07860 762339

GAZEBO LANDSCAPING

Landserve

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting - regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting & Pruning

No Job Too Small. All works insured

Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation

on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

General Garden Maintenance & construction

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc.

• Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas Contact: 01793 692687 Mobile: 07711 253508 Quality products & workmanship

David Hawkins Tree Surgeon

Chelworth Landscapes

Fencing & Garden Maintenance

• Fencing and gates

Closeboard, trellis, panels,

picket, chainlink, security etc

• Landscaping

Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting

• Garden maintenance

Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.

For free quotation phone (01793) 702029

www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk

Garden Magic RHS Exhibitor 2005 RHS Silver Medal 2006 Professional design & landscaping service Hand drawn imaginative and individual designs.

Plant plans for colour and interest

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL JILL BLACKWOOD ON: 01793 322880 MOBILE: 07951014119. e-mail gillian.blackwood@ntlworld.com www.jillblackwoodgardendesign.co.uk

www.acerpaving.co.uk

41

All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates 14 years experience

01793 611861 07967 594707

A W GARDEN SERVICES

Every client & every garden is different.

To fulfil the potential of your garden we offer a planning & design service, from a Gold Medal winning designer, that is individually tailored to suit your taste & home.

We offer a complete or phased project to suit budget and circumstances as well as planting plans, beds and border designs.

General garden maintenance & landscaping also undertaken.

Fully public liability insurance.

Tel/Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733 www.awgardenservices.co.uk

Garden Doctors Landscapes Ltd Landscaping & Garden maintenance

Fencing: Close board Panels & Gates Block Paving • Patios Paths • Turfing • Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation

Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139

Blackford Timber Supplies ALL FENCING & ROOFING PRODUCTS • CHAIN LINK

• Posts & rails

• Decking

• CLOSE BOARD • Gates

• TRELLIS

• CEMENT

• FELT

• TILes & SLates

• Trade & DIY • FREE LOCAL DELIVERY HOW TO FIND US

GREENHILL FROM Wootton BasseTT

FROM PURTON

Greenhill, Greatfield, Wootton Bassett, Swindon Weekdays 7am - 4.30pm Saturday 7am - 11.30am Local delivery contact Laurie on 01793 778070 or 07887 907904

21-52 oct 07 21st.indd 41

Est. 1987

Patios, Block Paving, Walling, Fencing, Close Board, Gates, Decking, Tree Work, Turfing, Building and Property Developing.

Portfolio and Client Testimonials Available

Blackfords

FROM LYDIARD MILLICENT & WEST SWINDON

Lydiard Landscapes

Ltd

Office/Fax: 01793 827117 Mobile: 07790 922081

Free estimates

Director: Nicholas Garner

Fully insured

21/9/07 16:34:39

www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

42

Award for junior youth club

LIGHTING BUG

The volunteers who run Toothill’s junior youth club have been applauded for the commitment to community development in the area.

Trade & DIY

Probably Wiltshire’s widest selection of affordable lighting

Showroom now double the size. Visit our enormous range

• Affordable prices • Unusual gifts • Ceiling fans • Mirrors • Modern & traditional lighting • Shades made in your own fabric • Special requirements and alterations catered for

Units 16/18 Westmead Ind. Est., Westlea, Swindon Tel: (01793) 616018 Open: Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm Bank Holidays 10am-4pm

KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • BEDROOMS

QUALITY AT AFFORDABLE PRICES ■ ■ ■ ■

Free home consultation and computer aided design Kitchens to suit every budget Bathrooms traditional and modern Stylish and contemporary bedrooms

■ Supply only or full installation service available Showroom at: Open: 39 BSS House Tuesday to Friday 10am-4pm Cheney Manor Ind. Estate Saturday 10am-2pm or by appointment For free quotation call David or Wendy on 01793 644600

Their dedication was recognised in July when they won the Youth Action Wiltshire Chairman’s cup for going the extra mile to meet the needs of their community.

“I was taken aback,” said Mavis Reed, who coordinates the club, pictured above with award winning children and club workers. “It came after a spate of damage to our building and equipment and gave the volunteers some support and recognition for their hard work.”

The club, which uses Toothill Farm social centre on Bodiam Drive, has been the repeated target

of vandalism but Mavis and the volunteers are dedicated to the hope that if teenagers have somewhere to go, things will improve in the area.

She said, “you can’t just criticise young people; we’re trying to do something practical with them and offer opportunities to contribute to their area. But we need good behaviour from them to achieve these aims.”

The club hopes to move into the renovated Toothill farmhouse in mid-October and to offer many more activities to young people.

www.timberdeckingco.co.uk

Your complete TIMBER DECKING Specialist

❍ ❍

❍ ❍ ❍ ❍

Timber Decking Easy Assemble Customised Decking Kits Tanalised Timber Pergolas, Arbours & Gazebos Decorative Aggregates Ornamental Fencing

6 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Ind Est Swindon SN2 2YW

01793 488899

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 42

BRUNEL ELECTRICAL Professional electrical services for domestic and small business.

From a single socket to a complete rewire.

BRUNEL AIR CONDITIONING Supply and install systems to suit your specific needs, we use top quality products for efficiency and first class reliability.

BRUNEL HEATING Kalirel central heating system without pipes ... a stylish, cost-effective centrally controlled electric radiator in every room.

Suppliers of Garden Play equipment Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm

Tel: 01793 554935 sales@brunel-electrical.co.uk

£10 off

with this ad. when you spend House re-wiring, consumer unit replacements, extra sockets, over £50 wiring house extensions, conservatories, outbuildings, Valid to 31/10/07 electric heating, showers, security lighting, garden lighting, garden sockets, emergency fault finding, full test and inspection reports

www.brunel-electrical.co.uk

21/9/07 18:14:44

43

doctor glass

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks

TREVOR WYSE Laminates Engineered boards Solid wood

Tel: 01793 706729 Mobile: 07810540059 Mail:andyfloors@yahoo.co.uk

ARC

MILESTONE

TILING

Walling and flooring specialist Kitchens bathrooms and conservatories

Full public liability insurance Free quotes Call Adam on 345345 or 07968 360207

BRUNEL ROOFING

All aspects of roofing undertaken by quality Craftsmen • Tiling & Slating • Fascias & Guttering • Chimney repairs • Lead work • New builds, Extensions & Repairs

Call us for a free written quote (01793) 554 935 077 25 804 738 077 85 988 557 www.brunel-roofing.co.uk

Boiler and central heating installation and changeovers Bathroom and shower installations and refurbishments

Professional installation Free no obligation quotation Friendly prompt service

Call: 01793 633336 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671

Supplier of Quick-step top quality laminate flooring

All other plumbing work undertaken

Phone Steve on 01793 772702 Mobile: 07770 555030

No job too small • Free estimates

Extensions Garage & loft conversions Alterations / renovations Kitchens/bathrooms Conservatories Garden walls/porches Block paving/patios No job too big or small!

Over 15 years experience.

Call Neil Tanner for a free & fair no-obligation quote on 07967 155502

Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

www.benchmark-construction.co.uk

Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking, landscape gardening Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring

mail: info@benchmark-construction.co.uk

EXTENSIONS AND SMALL BUILDINGS

Also tiling, coving, dado rails.

All work approved & guaranteed

Bathrooms

by

Ideas to reality

♦ Plumbing inc. pumped showers, towel warmers ♦ Electrics ♦ Wall & floor tiling ♦ Carpentry ♦ Laminate & wood flooring ♦ Appliance installation ♦ Also other home improvements No job too small

Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 887766 Mobile: 07979 267757

Dormer, Velux, Hip to Gable From concept to completion

plus patios, garden walls and stone walling Plastering & decorating No job too small

FREE Advice - FREE Quotes Prompt Friendly Service

Call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

We have 20 years experience & provide a fast, friendly & reliable service from design to completion References can be provided & viewings arranged

For a free no obligation quotation, call: 01793 700454

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 43

& Kitchens

LOFT CONVERSION SPECIALISTS

Galaxy Construction Ltd

From this to this in under 8 weeks

For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203 or 01793 723023

Complete installations to dripping taps

Tel: 01793 635000 House Medic

HM. BATHROOM

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

Wallpaper specialist

‘my experience your pleasure’

176726

Building Services

GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Painter & Decorator

HEATING Ltd

Excellence comes as standard

• • • • • • • •

Building, Maintenance & Repairs

INSTALLATIONS

Electric showers Power showers Replacement taps Exchange suites En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails Shower Trays And Cubicles Complete Bathroom Makeovers Insurance Work Undertaken

• • • • •

BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS INTERNAL ALTERATIONS REFURBISHMENTS MAINTENANCE WORK INSURANCE WORK

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150 644 THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FOR A HEALTHIER HOME

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Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

Plumbing & heating services

Free quotati ons

From dripping taps to complete bathroom installations 24/365 emergency service No call out charge No job too small • Fully insured Call Chris Bray on 01793 702171 Mob: 07951 219908 e: aps-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

Bathroom & kitchen fitting Interior & exterior painting and decorating Winners on quality and cost; why go anywhere different?

GMS

General Maintenance Services Est 1998

01793 434184 or 07872 946986

FENSA

Registered Company

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett

L J Wilson Brickwork Specialising in smaller works

• General property maintenance • Conservatory bases • Extensions/porches • Garden walls/patios • Interior & exterior decoration • All types of render painted • Tiling - walls & floors • Kitchen & bathroom fitting • Garage conversions • Free no obligation quotes • Insurance work

undertaken

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419

www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.uk

COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING SERVICES ❖ Gas, LPG and Oil ❖ Boiler servicing & breakdowns ❖ Boiler exchange ❖ Full system installation ❖ Landlord safety checks ❖ Power flush ❖ Plumbing ❖ Emergency call outs Reliable friendly service

Competitive rates Tel. 01793 887419 Mob. 07912 882090

PB Plastering & Bricklaying

General Building Services

Including Patios & Fencing Skirting & Coving Wall & Floor Tiling Painting & Decorating Call Pete

countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 01793 542654 Mob: 07790 283186

ODD JOB MAN • Garden Maintenance • Window Cleaning • Painting and Decorating • Flat Pack Construction • General Repairs In fact any odd job will be considered, no job too small, just ask.

For a friendly reliable service call Pete for a free quote on:

Tel: 01793 871879 Mobile: 07724734126 Full public liability insurance

Home Painting & decorating Kitchens & bathrooms Carpentry Floor and wall tiling Laminate floors Plastering, Dry lining Roofing, Rendering Fascias & guttering

Garden Fencing & walls Patios & paving Turfing & grass seeding Landscaping & design Garden maintenance Ponds & pergolas

For a FREE quote with no obligation Telephone: 01793 703233 Mobile: 07760 193890 No job too small - All work fully insured

Lee Orton Plumbing & Heating ❍ Central heating ❍ Boiler replacements ❍ Bathroom installations ❍Tiling ❍ Power showers No job too small Tel: 01793 722152 Mobile: 07887 541444

Home Handyman for all those little jobs around the home

Leaking taps • Washing machine/ dishwasher waste pipes • Tiling Laminate floors • Electrical fittings Locks • Door hanging • Skirtings Architraves • Shelving • Curtain rails Flat pack furniture assembly & repair Wired and wireless network installation Computer repair, set up and installation And much much more All work guaranteed and insured Free, no obligation quotes & estimates

01793 876798

Lydiard Home Services www.lydiard.biz

TileSure Ceramic Tiling

Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting Fitted by tradesman Quality Finish

Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

G.P. Building Specialist Ltd Established for 21 years

Specialist in loft conversions & building extension All types of maintenance and general building work Telephone: 01793 435876 Mobile: 0782 444 2143

0777 574 8682

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GARAGE CONVERSIONS

Need that extra room?

The cost-effective option from concept to completion

01793 635000

PLUMBING & HEATING Professional & Reliable • Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements • Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small • Free quotations

Call Craig Gavin 01793 886881 or 07880 735405

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Then call

TILEfix

CHRIS ANGELL PLASTERING

for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss

All aspects of plastering, rendering and dry lining undertaken Clean, tidy & reliable

Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

Tel: 01793 528243 07709 815316

D & M ENTERPRISES For all your property & garden maintenance

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

we are ... ‘the men to do it ..’

All types of fencing, decking, pagodas Painting & decorating Laminate flooring Ceramic & floor tiles Kitchen fitting Secondary fit carpentry Plaster boarding, plastering & rendering Plumbing, bathroom suites

Give us a try. For a free no obligation quote, call Jeff on 07747 606344 or Vito on 07812 180535 24 hour ansaphone 01793 700796

J’s Electrical ✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

REPLACEMENT uPVC • Fascia Soffits Guttering Cladding • All work carried out on tower scaffolding • Bargeboards • All sizes of properties

01793 422973 07834 708627

• 10 year warranty • Over 10 years experience www. detailfascias.co.uk

A local reliable & friendly service 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

ABC KTL BUILDERS Plastering

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

Home improvements Carpentry Plastering Fencing Garden walls No job too small For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm

The Fitting Crew UPVC, Facia, Cladding, Soffits, Guttering

Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes Floor screeding Small building works No job too small

Home: 01793 709811 Mobile: 07778 665115

To arrange your FREE survey, call Richard on 01793 725155 or mobile: 07760 143221

www.petergalbraith.co.uk

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HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241

PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. ‘No job too small’

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 078899 21570

Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon

PETER GALBRAITH EST 1986

NO MORE PAINTING, MAINTENANCE FREE, DEAL DIRECT

Local family business 17 yrs experience Repairs & cleaning No job too small All work guaranteed

Local, reliable & competitive

Hand built bedrooms of distinction

• Individual custom made fitted bedroom and home study furniture • Traditional and modern design • Wide variety of finishes available • Free estimates and expert advice

We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey

QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC.

Call 01793 526335

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46

BATHROOMS

RS

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Tiling Walls & Floors Bathroom and kitchen installations

BATHROOMS

Paul Rhind Bathroom suites ❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed Free estimates

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

01793 876600 07748 964433

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY

DECORATOR

• Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

ELECTRICIAN

James O’Sullivan

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing & Plastering Established 22 years

For a professional finish telephone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

ELECTRICIAN SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE: 07769 883717

TEL: 01793 876029

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES

Steve George

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

ALL KITCHENS FITTED

(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite

COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture 30 years experienced tradesman

305 Oct Repair & Improv.indd 46

BUILDING SERVICES

APPROVED

and kitchens fitted UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating Quality workmanship 25 yrs experience Also upvc fascias, soffits and guttering cleared and cleaned Friendly reliable service Free estimates

Call Paul on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236

Windows, Doors, Conservatories

Supplied. Installed. Repaired Free estimates, free advice No Salesmen Your local choice

01793 611398 07968 757860

HEATING & PLUMBING

FLOORING

P.J.J.

FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

N I CF National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed 17 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 493119 07970 865883

MAINTENANCE

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Reg: 203455

PLASTERING

RETIRED TRADES Brian Jones ASSOCIATES Plastering Services Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks

Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170 (calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

✭ External rendering ✭ Plastering two coat ✭ Re-skimming ✭ Dry lining ✭ Coving ✭ New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

21/9/07 18:00:37

Free estimates Jamie Scanlon 01793 704309 or 0777 594 8833

ELECTRICIAN Arc Electrical Services Ltd 01793 872054 0770 480 1959

arcelectrics@aol.com • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating

• Central heating installation • • • • •

Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Outside taps Power showers Bathrooms & tiling Reg: 128966

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

PLUMBING

• Everything from a new tap washer, to a complete bathroom suite.

• No job is too small.

• No callout charge.

• Free estimates.

For a professional, reliable service, contact us now Tel: 01793 875888 Mobile: 07951761764 www.selectplumbingservices.co.uk

305 Oct Repair & Improv.indd 47

Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions Doors & windows All carpentry work Stairs Shop fitting specialist

Independent decorator specialising in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating ✓ Domestic and small commercial ✓ Insurance work undertaken ✓ Full Public Liability insurance ✓ Free no obligation quotation ✓ References available Age Concern registered decorator

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN?

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

24hr call out facility

For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace

❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍

Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits Garden lights & sockets, pond pumps Wiring for log cabins, garages, sheds Electrical inspection & testing Portable appliance testing Air conditioning supplied & installed Part P registered

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

e c or

FREE ESTIMATES

&D

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

ELECTRICIAN

Lewis & Leo Electrical Ltd

For all electrical work in the home, garage & garden - rewires, extensions etc. also commercial & industrial, inspection & testing For free no obligation quotes call Wayne or Paul Tel: 01793 526955 Mob: 07928 723890 or 07738 177506

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

Call James Nicholls on 07974 711962 01793 812303 Amalia Electrical Services Ltd

lewisandleoelectrical@hotmail.co.uk

HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING

HOME MAINTENANCE

M.P.S.

Heating & Plumbing For Gas Central Heating Boiler Service & Replacement, Bathroom Suites & Showers

Call 01793 522579 Mobile: 07816 906437 Email: matt@mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk

ROOFING

Select Plumbing Services Repairs, maintenance or new installation at a competitive price

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING

Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

DECORATOR

ain ter

J S Property Services

DECORATOR

EP

CARPENTRY

PR ID

CARPENTRY

ator

47

● Felt

roofing ● Asphalt roofing ● Sheet roofing ● Tiling ● Slating ● Single Ply ● Fascia ● Guttering ❇❇❇

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

G R SERVICES

tCentral heating installations tAll Plumbing work undertaken tServicing & repairs tBathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

Painting and decorating Carpentry services Private garden & commercial grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

E-mail: towerplumbheat@aol.com

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

TILING

TO ADVERTISE

Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921 Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

HIGH IMPACT with Swindon's most closely read publication Call (01793) 602540

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ACCOUNTANCY

Chartered Certified Accountants

AERIAL SERVICES

CHRIS PAYNE

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS

AERIAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRAVEL

Aerial & Satellite Services

AIRPORTS Connect Ltd

• TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points • Freeview installation

email: enquiries@dykebrading.co.uk

✭ Satellite TV ✭ Sky & digital terrestial ✭ Extra TV, telephone & electrical points ✭ Storm damage

www.dykebrading.co.uk

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0777 6236415

CARPET CLEANING

CLEANING

CLEANING

Domestic Cleaning Services

THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE

Small Business Specialists Tel: 01793 610008

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

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

You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

COMPUTER SUPPORT Com Master’s PC Repairs

Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £20 Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed House clearance Long/short distance removals Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

Service Sector Oct07.indd 48

House cleans from £15 per house

Mandy - (Proprietor) email: mandy@donendusted.info www.donendusted.info

Ironing £15 per basket, collected and returned the next day Call 01793 875665 07780625244

The Automatic Choice

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

01793 513796

email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

REMOVALS

Fully Insured Disposal of unwanted items Last minute bookings Professional, friendly and reliable We guarantee to beat any written quote www.robbinsremovals.com info@robbinsremovals.com

Tel - 07876 338025

Competitive prices

Tel: 431111

email: travel@airportsconnect.com www.airportsconnect.com

CLEANING

A CLEAN START

Domestic Cleaning Services • Regular weekly cleans • Fortnightly cleans • One-off Spring cleans Call Christine on (01793) 701413 Mob: 07951 184424

THE IRON LADY • Free collection and delivery • Returned within 24 hrs • Only £15 per basket

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

• 18 years experience

10% discount with this advert

Tel: 0777 355 0734

OVEN CLEANING

Single items to full house removals Hourly rates

Reliable travel for business people and holiday makers

IRONING

GARAGE DOORS

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

White Van Man

Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379 or 07774 943 783

Tel: 01793 814782 Mob: 07909 500724

Free home & business visits Jargon free advice & support Upgrades/repairs All parts & labour guaranteed Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

REMOVALS

Notice interfere d lately? T nce e filters fitt tra ed

No call out charge All work guaranteed

Weekly Fortnightly Monthly

Why go anywhere else?

When we’ll come to you..... ✻ ✻ ✻ ✻ ✻

• Signal amplifiers

Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus

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

SKIP HIRE

AMI SKIPS

2 yd: £55 4 yd: £90 2.5 yd: £65 5 yd: £100 3 yd: £80 All inclusive 5 days given to fill skip

Freephone 0800 - 387613 Tel: 731610 8am - 6pm

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

GUARANTEED REPAIRS...

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

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

WASHCAR E

01793 - 643785

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

Accidentally formatted your hard drive or lost data?

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

INSTALLATIONS

Let us try and get it back for you - no results, no cost.

Also PC repairs/upgrades Systems built to requirements Private or business • Free estimates

Call Andy Anderson Computer Data Recovery Tel: 01793 871718 Mobile: 07703 033790 email:jlanderson@ntlworld.com

LEGAL SERVICES

BOOK-KEEPING

CARPET CLEANING

Premier Klean

Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work?

‘Set the course in cleaning’

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 www.bookkeepingswindon.

PROFESSIONAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING, CAR VALETING, DRIVEWAY & PATIO CLEANING Premier Klean has invested in the best cleaning systems possible; our powerful machines give an excellent clean whilst using no harmful chemicals.

We offer a comprehensive service.

Call now for a free no obligation quotation.

0800 2800 544

COMPUTER SUPPORT

LOCAL, AFFORDABLE IT PROFESSIONALS WITH OVER 30 YEARS TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE

Microsoft and Apple Mac Call Sensata now 0845 014 1500 E-mail: sales@sensata.co.uk www.sensata.co.uk

MINI BUS HIRE

Home Cinema Installations

Plasma • LCD • Projectors

AIRPORT SERVICE From Swindon to...

Gatwick - Heathrow Bristol - Birmingham Stansted For family holidays, business trips and all occasions, we cater for 1 to 8 passengers Call for a competitive quote now!

• AV setup & calibration • Hidden wiring /Feature lighting • Dedicated power supplies For free home surveys call Antony on 01793 728668 or 07748 962689

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Free home estimates No call out charge TV & video tuning All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793 - 812738

Service Sector Oct07.indd 49

Tel: 01793 703899

VHS TO DVD Transfer VHS to DVD and all taped media

• Save those irreplaceable memories • Wedding videos • Irreplaceable TV programmes • Large family collections • Children’s first steps. Birthday parties • 8mm reel film a speciality • Obsolete formats, i.e. Betamax, Video2000; camcorder tapes

SAVE THOSE MEMORIES Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co .uk DON’T DELAY SAVE THOSE MEMORIES TODAY

Give your loved one wellness Relieve pain & discomfort with a Bioflow magnet - for people and pets The beneficial properties of magnets have been known for thousands of years, but only Bioflows use a patented British technology which maximise their effect.

Great products with a money back guarantee, from Ecoflow, a leader in the field of health and well being.

Call (01793) 608840 for a free colour brochure

21/9/07 18:33:19

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Spanish links to region developing English skills

ANYTHING TRANSFERRED ONTO DVD DISC Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ

JOY’S PIANO FORTÉ Tuition in piano and keyboard All ages, pre-school to adult Classical, grade exams, jazz, church music Concert pianist/organist Accompanist for exams, concerts Call Joy Walker on 01793 722296 email: joyspianoforte@yahoo.co.uk

In June, Greendown welcomed students from the Insituto Murillo in Seville and pupils are preparing to make a return visit to southern Spain in early October.

Spanish teacher Fran O’Flanagan, have kept in touch and are looking teachers are voluntarily improvsaid that the school was buzzing forward to spending time with their ing their English language skills after the first leg of the exchange. new friends. Participating in an in preparation.

The Spanish youngsters were “Having already met their partners exchange is an invaluable way to impressed by Greendown during and established friendships, they really boost language skills.”

Youngsters will attend lessons their June visit. “It is so quiet here,” at Insituto Murillo, but there will said Carmen Cañal. “There are Flowers for be some time out to see the sights carpets in the corridor; our school all occasions in Seville and to take a trip to the is all concrete and Spanish people delivered locally spectacula Alhambra Palace in make a lot of noise.”

Granada.

It is hoped that this exchange with Also wedding stationery made to order The regional government of the Instituto is the first of many. The Malvern show medallist Andalucia has introduced a radi- two schools have signed a partnerTel: 07971 915249 cal policy to improve language ship agreement to promote mutual e-mail: scenteddesigns@btinternet.com skills and give advantage to young linguistic and cultural learning and www.scenteddesigns.com people on the world stage. By exchange programmes. They have 2008, thirty per cent of classes in been communicating over the inmaths, science and social sciences ternet and will be developing joint will be taught in English, and all curriculum projects.

Swindon and Spanish children with their teachers at Greendown in June

FARINGDON UPHOLSTERY 31 Park Road, Faringdon Buy direct from your local manufacturer and save money At Faringdon Upholstery we manufacture top quality upholstery supplied direct to the public.

We make your furniture the way you want it, with thousands of fabrics to choose from

Building South Africa contacts

Another group of Greendown pupils are off to southern climes in October.

Nine girls are making a long planned trip to South Africa to visit their partners at Moriteng Wa Thuto secondary school in the Clarens township. They will be attending classes and taking part in cultural activities in the district.

The pupils have spent a lot of extra curricula time studying the issues affecting poorer countries, discussing how to overcome stereotypes and assumptions and understanding all aspects of building a partnership on equal terms.

Film makers from Swindon Create Studios will be accompanying the group to record the trip.

Nearly on their way, from left, Sadie Tuttle, Natalie Irving, Laura Dunham, teacher Cristina Bennett, Sian Gannon, Deniellie Govender. Front, Kate Burch, Jessica Price.

Not pictured, Jessie Howard and Charlotte Hall

★ Established 25 years ★ Craftsman built ★ All suites fully guaranteed ★ All suites covered in your own choice of fabric ★ Solid wood frames ★ Made to measure ★ Re-upholstery service ★ Curtains

✆

Don’t settle for mass produced when you can have made-to-measure for the same price!

Come and see our wide selection of suites today

01367 241855

Open Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm

21-52 Oct 07 21st.indd 50

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www.swindonlink.com - 10 years

Freshbrook and Windmill Hill names live on - but in another land

Following the merger of the two primary schools in Freshbrook under the name Millbrook Primary, school governors provided every child with a purple sweatshirt emblazoned with the new logo, making hundreds of old uniforms redundant.

VACANCY for a female carer/enabler (experience with learning disabilities) required for young lady in the Cheney Manor area

51

We believe that Jesus Christ is able to forgive our past, give meaning to the present and hope for the future

4 hours/week, Mondays 11.30am - 3.30pm. £10/hour Duties to include personal care and social activities.

Car owner/driver essential CRB check required Contact the administrator at RHC Trust, tel: 01793 554713 (quote ref: SP) Exemption under the Sex Discrimination Act 1975

Sunday services are at 10am & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org “the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23)

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

Liz Rabbits, left, with Annette Caroll, Lorrelle Gardiner and centre, Dakota Hall, with uniforms destined for a new use

Members of Freshbrook Church hit upon the idea of gathering up the old clothing and other school items to donate them to Support for Romania which the church has worked with for 11 years.

Parents responded enthusiastically and dozens of full black bags and boxes have been collected and will be handed over to charity representatives in October.

Support for Romania is involved with orphanages, churches, prisons, old people’s homes and many individuals and families. They were delighted to hear of the collection.

Parent Annette Carroll said she had mentioned the idea to her friend Lorrelle Gardiner in church one Sunday close to the end of term and

the idea took off from there.

Liz Rabbits said people are happy to know the uniforms will have a new use. “A number of parents and staff have said how pleased they are that there will be a small legacy from our schools helping less fortunate people in another country.”

Support for Romania, based in South Wales, collects donations from Freshbrook Church two or three times a year. The congregation is provided with a list of items needed ranging from furniture, clothes and baby milk, to farm machinery.

At Easter, the church sends chocolate eggs and collects shoe boxes of Christmas presents. www.freshbrook.org

Questions of life in Abbey Meads

The Church of Christ the Servant is holding a series of Sunday evening discussions during October on the theme of Puzzling Questions.

If you wonder about who you are, whether there is a god, what is the route to happiness and why is there so much suffering in the world, and what happens after you die, these sessions may have some answers.

For details call Rev Brian Sweetman on 706558 or mail: brian.sweetman@virgin.net

Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.45am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am 11am

Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

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