October 2008 Swindon Link

Join the cast of Swindon’s panto for the big Link evening on 5 December. See details on page 21 No. 317 October 2008 • Circulation 27,000

Open Evening Wednesday 8th October 7pm to 9pm

Tel: 01793 705400 the positive newsforce in Swindon and the swindon wide what’s on guide

Toot returns to say hello

Redhouse Way, Redhouse, Swindon admin@isambard.swindon.sch.uk www.isambard.swindon.sch.uk

A mascot from 30 years ago emerged from hibernation to visit Toothill’s brand new primary school.

Your child deserves the best

Right, Nursery assistant Melanie Lynch introduces her son Bradley, 5, to Toot, who she first met when she attended Toothill as a five year old in 1980. See story on page 16

MEADOWPARK

Excellent standards of Education and Daycare at Nursery & Pre-Prep School

Help put Swindon on The People’s Map We’re teaming up with getmapping.com to contribute to a new kind of map and we need your assistance. See our world exclusive on page 30 Tristan Carey, MD of getmapping.com holding The Link’s North Swindon map

Too sweet to fall asleep Holly Traynor from Oakhurst is going to walk the length of Thamesdown Drive for her sixth birthday to raise money to help children with diabetes. You could help her. See page 10 for details

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swindonlink.com • October 2008

£215 million deal for new look town; the first of several

Put away the cynicism, set aside worries about the economic state of the nation: Swindon is facing up with confidence to the gloom and doom of the global credit crunch. That’s the message from the signSouth Swindon MP Anne Sneling of a development agreement grove is delighted with the agreewhich will see £215 million of pri- ment. “It shows that developers vate and public sector investment have tremendous confidence in in the regeneration of the Granville the future of the town. The Modus Street area, between Commercial scheme is for quality buildings to Road and Regent Street, known as replace some of the horrible legacy Regent Place. of the 1960s and earlier. I think evModus Properties has committed erybody who lives in the town can to deliver 32,500 square metres of have confidence that the vision for high quality retail, residential, lei- Swindon is coming good.” sure and car park spaces, with DeLeader of the council Rod Bluh benhams relocated into the anchor said the agreement with Modus is position on the site by 2012. the first part of an investment in Looking into the Regent Place development from Regent Street

Marking the formal signing of the Modus deal in the House of Commons, from left, Peter James, chief executive of the New Swindon Company, coun Peter Greenhalgh, cabinet member for strategic planning, coun Phil Young, Swindon cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, coun Rod Bluh, leader of the council, Anne Snelgrove, MP for South Swindon, Mike Ralph, planning director of Modus

At a presentation at the House of Commons on 3 September to mark the signing of the agreement, coun Phil Young, cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, said, “given the current gloomy economy, the signing of this agreement really puts Swindon a step ahead of many other regeneration schemes in the UK. It is a true sign that progress is being made in the town centre. Regent Place is the first step in a much bigger picture.”

the town centre of over £650 million. “This is not all about physical change of the town. Our requirement is for high quality, sustainable development and also the improvement to public and cultural space and activities. They go hand in hand to make Swindon a better place to live and visit.” • A second £300 million development agreement for the area around the bus station and the old police station is due to be signed in early October.

Builders demand decision from government on Coate, despite 50,000 petition against plan

A campaigner against the development of houses next to Coate Water has condemned an application to Central Government to set up a local planning enquiry to decide on their proposal for 1,800 homes between the country park and Great Western Hospital. “They’re trying to protect their Swindon Council’s planning committee was due to consider a land bank and want to bully governreport in November, but the move ment into siding with them.” The Gateway Partnership plan is by Persimmon and Redrow Homes of the Swindon Gateway Partner- dependent on a university campus being built but they have not named ship by-passes their decision. Jean Saunders of the Save Coate their partner since Bath University Alliance - which has collected nearly pulled out a year ago. Ms Saunders said, “if there is 50,000 names against development said Persimmon and Redrow might another university involved the delose the site. “Swindon Council is velopers should name it; Gateway proposing 750 homes as part of their cannot got ahead without one so core strategy, which we also oppose. Swindon people deserve to be told If the council adopts that policy, it what’s going on. “This move will strengthen opwill block the developers’ chances of building a further 1,000 houses position to their plan.” www.savecoate.org.uk when the economy improves.

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19/9/08 11:45:56

swindonlink.com • October 2008

3

Central Library kept secret until 20 October opening

Swindon Council Library sService are keeping the internal appearance and facilities at the new library under wraps until councillors and the media are invited in on the morning of 20 October before the public opening at 2pm. Coun Justin TomThe council has linson, cabinet memalready announced ber for leisure and the award winning recreation, said he building will open had been surprised from 11am to 3pm on on visits to other Sundays and library towns to see libraries card holders will be closed at key times. able to access an Ex“These otherwise express Zone for an cellent facilities were hour before regular not available when opening hours, from people wanted to 8.30am to 9.30am, and use them. We were for three hours after determined that the it closes. This means new Central Library would that on weekdays, library have flexible opening hours to services will be available until fit in with the often busy lives 10pm at night, and 7pm on of Swindon people.” Saturdays. The library will have 17,000 The main part of the library new books and more than 60 will be shuttered off, with the free-to-use computers, as well Express Zone offering the latas a dedicated children’s library est, and most popular, titles. It and reference library. will also have CDs and DVDs, quick internet access via four Swindon Link ready PCs, and the library’s two-day DVD and one-week book loan Some 300 editions of The Link services. going back to December 1978 Reserved books will be availhave been bound by Swinable for collection. don’s Library Service and will The library will be fully open be available in the reference for 58 hours a week, and a furlibrary for study. ther 24 hours with the Express Librarian Dawn Osborne with The Zone – 82 hours in total. Link collection

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4

swindonlink.com • October 2008

Grand design for Swindon nearly ready for planning application

After a series of public consultation meetings in August and September to bring together ideas for Pickard’s Small Field in Gorse Hill, a formal presentation of plans for a new housing development based on sound environment principles and designs will be put to a public meeting on 18 October, before a planning application is submitted. At a public consultation in early The aim is to set a benchmark for munity and environmental groups Pickard’s Small Field, the former allotments site close to Cricklade September, Kevin said that involv- future development both in Swin- to address flooding issues and Road, will comprise some 180 new ing people living close to the site and don and across the UK. improve woodland and open green The houses for sale and for space close by. Wiltshire Wildlife homes and is the first project by the people of Gorse Hill had been Hab Housing, the new residential central to the project. “We’re not just rent, designed by Glenn Howell Trust is proposing improvements development company established building houses, we are absolutely Architects, will far exceed present to the adjacent copse and brook by TV presenter Kevin McCloud. committed to building a commu- energy conservation standards. The and to implement a community-led For this project Hab has formed a nity and enhancing the community development will also demonstrate maintenance regime. urban planning innovations that are joint venture with Oakus Wiltshire which is already there.” The meeting takes place on SaturOver the last year Hab Oakus has already proven in parts of Europe. day 18 October, 9.30am to 12.30pm, Ltd, part of the Green Square Group that also includes Westlea Housing. worked closely with Swindon Bor- The area has poor drainage and a at the Punjabi Community Centre, Their joint venture partnership is in ough Council to create beautifully variety of methods will be used to Kembrey Street, Gorse Hill. For turn working closely with Swindon designed homes that are respectful prevent flooding on the site and details call Katie Scaife at Westlea of their context and environment. further away. The project team has Housing on 01249 466015 or mail: Borough Council. been working closely with com- katie.scaife@westlea.co.uk

Purton House Church End Purton Tel: 01793 772287 www.purton-house.co.uk

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Kevin discussing the Pickard’s Small Field proposals with Gorse Hill residents

Wichelstowe plans in the making

Hab Housing have also agreed with Swindon Council to develop another site at West Wichel in the Front Garden. Whilst the volume house builders have been struck by the massive drop in house sales, Kevin McCloud said his project is not under threat. “Obviously the slow down in house sales impacts all builders, but we do not have a land bank nor major financial commitments to service. It means we can develop our plans and be ready to build with our high quality housing when the market improves in a couple of years.”

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

advertising Enquiries Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for November advertisements: 3 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 Copy for December: 6 November printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford photographs require similar authority The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers

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19/9/08 11:49:52

OPEN EVENINGS Tuesday 7th October & Wednesday 8th October 6.15pm to 8.30pm

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Then you must come and see what Greendown can offer Our Specialist Status in Maths, Computing and Sport is a reflection of our strength, recognising 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 and laptop trolleys in every subject area • two full size sports halls and a brand new all-weather multi-sport pitch • separate bespoke dance and drama studios • classrooms displaying pupils’ work, resources and equipment • experiments in the science labs for you to try. Teaching staff will be on hand to answer questions and the headteacher will give an informal talk to 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

In 2008, Ofsted said: “The excellent links with primary schools not only help pupils settle when they join year 7, but also mean teachers know what pupils have learned before so that they do not repeat work.” And they were equally impressed with: “the pupils’ good behaviour, enthusiasm and enjoyment of school life.” w high s rise to a ne

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“We are delighted to report another improvement in our GCSE results this year and we want to share our success with parents and primary school children at our open evenings. We look forward to meeting you.” Clive Zimmerman, headteacher

Grange Park Way, West Swindon 1 - 21 October 08.indd 5

In summary: “Greendown Community School is a good school. It has several outstanding features.”

Our DVD Prospectus and the full Ofsted 2008 report are available at www.greendown.swindon.sch.uk

Tel: 01793 874224

www.greendown.swindon.sch.uk 18/9/08 15:29:30

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swindonlink.com • October 2008

Age Concern Energy Services

Pop into your local Age Concern with a recent energy bill and see how much you could save.

Officers to go toe-to-toe with troublemakers

The safety of residents is the priority for Wiltshire police and nobody - whether they be international drug barons or youth getting drunk and aggressive in a play area - should be allowed to get away with the aggravation they cause. “After seven months in the post This uncompromising mesFREE low energy light Or call for a quote on bulbs when you sage was spelt out to the West I and my senior commanders have switch to Age Concern, 0800 056 7923 Swindon Forum by Brian Moore, reviewed our work and are implesaving you Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, £31.80* Saturday 9am – 5pm a year chief constable of Wiltshire, right, menting new approaches to make or go online at who spoke about the vast range of our scarce resources go further. www.ageconcern.org.uk/energy “It’s a question of finding the responsibilities his force has to be Age Concern Swindon right balance between the imcope with. 1 Milton Road, Swindon SN1 5JE With 1,200 police officers and portant day to day demands of Tel: 01793 692166 several hundred support staff the neighbourhood policing, which *Savings based on average four hours use per day, at an electricity unit rate of 10.52p/kWh when replacing standard bulbs with their low energy equivalent. One unit is equivalent to 1kWh, is averaged across all regions and includes VAT. Unit rates may vary depending on meter type, consumption, force has to respond to 999 calls take up a third of our budget, and region and payment method.Age Concern Energy Services is a trading name of Age Concern Enterprises Ltd (a trading company of Age Concern England which gives all profits to that charity, and run the traffic division, CID the wider, often invisible demands (Registered office: Astral House, 1268 London Road, London SW16 4ER. Registered in England No. 3156159). E.ON Energy Limited. Registered office: Westwood Business Park, Coventry CV4 8LG. and murder operations, serious on us - the terrorist threat which is Registered in England and Wales No. 3407430. and organised crime, the dog and real, the drug dealing at street level which is linked into international he wanted to work more closely firearms squad. sources, the paedophiles using the with residents and the council to cut internet and recently, for the first off the supply of alcohol to young time, a case of human trafficing in people and expects his PCs to take on anybody causing problems. “My the county.” He said his top priority is to officers should be in touch with make Wiltshire the safest county in troublemakers so that they know if Britain for violent crime, whether they behave badly they will be dealt it be in the street due to drinking, with. I want our people to go to toeviolence in the home which is the to-toe and deal with them.” We offer a high quality, convenient However he appealed for resitop contributor to murder or by service for all of your overseas dents to help the police with young people. travel health needs “We have to recognise that young evidence and information. He people are also the victims of vio- acknowledged difficulties with lence and have to work to reduce the police call centre and response their vulnerability through work times, but appealed to people not To arrange an appointment with schools to cut truancy rates to give up on reporting problems to and community work. The summer the police as his force would not be please telephone 01793 787462 football training and tournament giving up on keeping people safe. at Link Centre was a successful • Councillors said they would have www.shrivenhamtravelclinic.co.uk example of work by the police with vegetation cut back and the benches local youngsters.” removed at Kiln Park. Residents at the meeting called • Learn more about the police, for more police on the beat to deal include crime levels for your neighwith aggressive, intimidating youth bourhood, apply to be a special conin public places such as Kiln Park, stable or volunteer your skills at: Toothill, Shaw Ridge and at Peatwww.wiltshire.police.uk moor Village Centre. Mr Moore said E1039V2MAY07_MC1223

Shrivenham Travel Clinic Travelling abroad? Need advice or vaccinations?

Pastors to build on street success

Swindon Street Pastors definitely do not preach to the people they help when they visit clubs and pub areas in the town centre.

Launched in September 2007 street pastors provide assistance to those in distress and give practical help such as finding taxis to take people home safely. The team is recruiting more volunteers to join them and is holding an information evening to explain the work they’ve done in the last year and what is required of street pastors. It takes place on Friday 10 October, 7pm, at Central Church. For details call Rev Paul Rush on 872853 or mail: swindon@ streetpastors.org.uk www.streetpastorsswindon.org.uk

Paul Rush and Jane Perrot, in Fleet Street, in September 2007

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19/9/08 11:51:38

swindonlink.com • October 2008

7

MP calls for an elected mayor to give Swindon strong, decisive and visionary leadership North Swindon MP Michael Wills explains why he supports The Link’s campaign with talkswindon.org to give Swindon’s citizens a referendum to elect their own leader, which they were denied in 2001 Every month, I receive hundreds of letters about Swindon Borough Council. People care about how this town is run and now a petition is under way to change it. Council debate referendum It’s not about which party or economy but if we don’t get it right, which people should run it but we could suffer. This is a time for As The Link went to press LibDem about the system. The petition is for strong, decisive and visionary lead- group leader Coun Stan Pajak anSwindon to have an elected mayor, ership and an elected mayor could nounced that he is proposing at the full meeting of Swindon Council on someone directly elected by the vot- help produce it. As importantly, elected mayors 25 September that citizens of the ers of Swindon, who would appoint cabinet members in the council and can help improve the way local gov- town be given the chance to take allocate portfolios and soon will ernment is regarded by residents. part in a referendum on the question be able to chair the Local Strategic Over and over again, constituents of an elected mayor. See the report Partnership and be the new Crime come to me because they do not at www.swindonlink.com know where else to go for help in and Policing Representative. Swindon’s honorary mayors, dealing with the council. I have no power over the council from all parties, have so all I can do is ask for always been exemplary help on their behalf servants of the town 1 You drop it off and take on the burden and we all have reason 2 We sell it on eBay for you of the dialogue. to be grateful to them, 3 We send you a cheque The evidence shows but I believe the case for Turn your treasures into cash that directly elected a directly elected mayor and let us sell your unwanted mayors are more visis now compelling. ible than councillors The fact that they items on eBay for you. and give residents a are directly elected greater sense that there by voters gives them is someone accounta capacity for strong Let Us Auction It Ltd, BSS House, Unit 36 able for what happens and decisive leadership Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2PJ which is often lacking from the in local government. This new syscurrent system. In the eleven years tem can improve the performance I have been the MP for North Swin- of a local authority in areas which BP advert_vis1:Layout 13/6/08 Page 1 don, I have watched how council matter to residents and increase 0533(Only items valued at £35 1or more can 12:50 be accepted) leaders from all parties have been the democratic legitimacy of local hamstrung by their lack of an inde- government. Finally, I believe it is always pendent mandate from voters and the need constantly to protect their desirable that power should be diffused as widely as possible. A backs from their colleagues. Find out what makes us Swindon’s favourite flexible business centre I stress that this has affected all directly elected mayor - directly administrations, as every time I say accountable to voters - would alsomething that could be construed, ways be a valuable counterweight however remotely, as a criticism to the council, whichever party is in of the council, I am abused for power at the time, and act as a check and balance to the sort of arbitrary partisanship. A major national survey of decisions which I have seen deeply councillors, council officers and upset residents. If readers want to sign the petistakeholders has shown significant majorities among these people at the tion, and, for the avoidance of frontline of local government for doubt, I should underline the fact the effectiveness of a system with that this is being run by residents an elected mayor over alternative and I have had nothing to do with organising it, they can do so at: systems. Swindon is now entering a crucial www.talkswindon.org/petition And I would recommend looking stage in its history. We are poised to benefit tremendously from growth at the articles about elected mayors and our exposure to the global at www.swindonlink.com

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National Childbirth Trust Nearly New Sale Saturday 11 October, 11am -1pm. Entry £1. Oasis Leisure Centre Choose from a fantastic selection of children’s clothing (0 - 4 years), cots, prams, nursery equipment, maternity wear, toys, DVDs, books. To sell items, send a cheque for £2.50 made payable to ‘NCT Swindon Branch’, to: 2 Wyvern Close, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4DL

Book a stall at Xmas Fair The Friends of Bridlewood School and the National Childbirth Trust are combining to hold a joint Christmas shopping evening at Bridlewood Primary School in Ash Brake on Thursday 20 November, 7.30pm. To book a stall mail: nct_swindon@hotmail.com

1 - 21 October 08.indd 7

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19/9/08 11:58:26

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swindonlink.com • October 2008

Cash crisis forces major changes upon Age Concern Swindon

In order to safeguard the future of important community services to older people in and around Swindon, the trustees of Age Concern Swindon have agreed to radically alter the way the organisation is run from 31 March 2009. very much hope we will be able Concern Swindon can pay for.” Discussions are in hand to transThe charity marked 50 years to transfer some essential services fer as many services and activities of providing high and increasing to another organisation so that the as possible and the changes will be levels of services to older people in Age Concern presence will be mainspelt out at Age Concern Swindon’s Swindon in 2003. Now, in order to tained – albeit not Age Concern Annual General Meeting on Friday try and safeguard its core activities Swindon. We have no intention to 3 October. such as providing information, wel- let down the thousands of older Age Concern Swindon director fare benefits advice and the visiting people who rely on us each year for Jo Osorio said the charity had been and befriending service, the trustees information, advice and practical using reserve funding to keep serhave reluctantly reached the con- help. If we can manage to do this, vices to older people going because clusion that it has to transfer some our users will notice little difference grants from other sources were in the delivery of services from 1 services to other providers. insufficient or unavailable. “This Mr Osorio said, “charities like April next year – but the task is has left the organisation vulnerours have to assess the risks in- considerable and complex.” able to unexpected costs and recent One consequence of the radical volved in maintaining services by changes in pension legislation have spending reserves and at one stage financial reorganisation is that Mr imposed extra demands on the the council threatened to reduce Osorio and a number of other senior organisation. The revised pension contributions required from the Jo Osorio, to be made redundant from our grant aid because at the time staff will be made redundant. Age Concern Swindon still we held reasonable reserves. We charity are now more than Age Age Concern after 22 years needs to raise funds to sustain its services. Donations and offers of support should be made to Age Concern Swindon, Number One Milton Road, SN1 5JE or online at: www.justgiving.com/ageconcernswindon • Information, advice and practical help is available from the organisation’s Milton Road office from Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Tel: 692166 or email swindon@ ageconcernswindon.org.uk

Senior support, the tasty way

On 19 October Age Concern launches its first ever Great Sunday Lunch to raise funds to help provide services and support for older people People across the UK are asked to bring together friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances for a meal. Mel Richards of Age Concern Swindon said, “you don’t have to wait for 19 October, or even hold a fundraiser on a Sunday, but it is a traditional time to meet up with family and friends - perhaps ask people to bring a dish and contribute to Age Concern. “Sadly, this doesn’t apply to everyone and older people are particularly likely to be isolated. This new fundraising initiative is a great chance to help with the work that Age Concern does to relieve isolation in the community.” If you plan to host a Great Sunday Lunch let Mel Richards know by calling 692166 or mail: Mel.Richards@ageconcernswindon.org.uk

1 - 21 October 08.indd 8

18/9/08 15:30:25

Wootton Bassett School and Sixth Form Centre

Open Evening

Wednesday 8th October 2008 - 6pm - 8pm We would like to invite prospective parents with children currently in Years 5 and 6 to visit our School during Open Evening. You and your child will have the opportunity to look around the School, see our outstanding modern facilities and meet the staff, students and Headteacher. Ofsted (2007) state this is a good school with many outstanding features. We are proud that: * Examination results are consistently amongst the highest in the region: x 75% of GCSE students achieved A*-C English x 67% of GCSE students achieved A*-C Maths x 81% of A-level results were at grades A-C * We are judged to offer outstanding care, guidance and support * Students are happy to be part of our vibrant learning community For further details Tel: 01793 841900

1 - 21 October 08.indd 9

18/9/08 15:30:46

10 swindonlink.com • October 2008

Too sweet to turn into a sleeping princess

China trek raises profile of forgotten cancer

Before his mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, Steve Kuenen of Grange Park had no idea of the bleak prognosis for sufferers. After When Holly Traynor was asked what she would like to do for her her death in February, he vowed to raise money for research by trekking sixth birthday, she said she wanted to walk the length of Thamesdown along the Great Wall of China at the end of September. Drive to raise money for Swindon Children with Insulin Dependent His mother, Marilyn Potter, died Diabetes (SCWIDD). two and a half years after her initial Holly is used to walking long diagnosis, aged 63. distances and it’s the way her diaWhile survival rates for other betes was discovered said her mum types of cancer have steadily imCharley. “We moved from the town proved, the chances for victims of centre to Redhouse last year and pancreatic cancer are slim. Steve Holly had to go to Haydon Wick said he was shocked when he learnt Primary. We walked two miles to of the low survival rates. “Other school each morning and then the cancers get a lot of media coverage same in the afternoon. but pancreatic cancer has been left “After a couple of months she behind. It has possibly one of the became very tired and we couldn’t worst survival rates; only three per understand why; I was even reSteve with a portrait of Marilyn cent of those diagnosed live for five ported to the education department Holly and Kane, walking for diabetes years. The survival rates have barely and married at 18. because Holly was missing school improved in 40 years.” John is backing Steve’s fundraisasleep like the sleeping beauty. because she was exhausted.” The whole family were devastat- ing efforts and has made a donation Charley said diabetes was the Now she tells everybody that’s she ed by Marilyn’s death, particularly of £500 towards the £3,000 target. unexpected explanation as there too sweet.” her husband John. The couple had On the wall he will be covering ten After an appeal to Swindon been together almost all their lives. was no history in the family. “The miles a day for 11 days and staying Council Holly was allowed to diagnosis was a complete shock Amazingly, they were born within with local families on the way. Aland meant a total lifestyle change as transfer to Red Oaks Primary School three hours of each other, delivered though he has a good level of fitness, Holly now has to inject insulin twice close to her home. by the same midwife in Oxford. Steve has been training hard at the The Thamesdown Drive trek They went right through school a day to maintain the right blood De Vere Hotel gym. takes place on Tuesday 4 November sugar levels. But she’s been brilliant; together, began courting aged 17 www.justgiving.com/stevekuenen we’re amazed how accepting she and Holly will be joined by 12 year old Kane Chilcott from Penhill who has been of her situation.” Charley and Holly’s dad Mark was diagnosed with diabetes on the took a novel approach to explain same day. Other families who would like Hundreds of teddy bears are looking for new places to live as part of the why she had to have the life saving treatment. “We told Holly that she to take part are welcome. To join drive to help the Swindon MS Therapy Centre move to a new home. was just too sweet and she needs in or offer sponsorship call Charley To bag a bear, or to offer to sell a The cute creatures, each cuddling the injections to stop her falling Traynor on 0791 737 1227. a blanket sporting a Care for MS box in your workplace, call Jackie logo, are ideal stocking fillers and Wray on 481700. Cabaret and curry coming up are available for a minimum dona15 November. Musical entertaintion of £1.50. The Moving Soon Appeal has ment in aid of the MS Centre at now raised £360,000, thanks to The Moonrakers. Call 481700 for support from a charitable trust and a ticket from fundraising events, towards 17 November. Curry night at Bomtheir £500,000 target to pay for new bay Lounge, Peatmoor. Call 887799 premises and a new larger oxygen to book a table. www.msswindon.org.uk treatment chamber.

Teddies to help MS Centre relocate

A brush with the Mayor at Shaw dentist

A trip to the dentist gave Jennifer Henshaw plenty to smile about when she picked up a prize in a competition run by Shaw Dental Practice. During Smile Month in June, she correctly identified four magnified dental images and was presented with a gift voucher and goody bag from Mayor Steve Wakefield, who is also a patient of the practice. Dentist Brigitte Wilkinson said that the British Dental Health Foundation’s Smile month plays an important part in raising awareness of dental hygiene issues, including new findings The Mayor presents Jennifer with her prizes which show that infections in the mouth can cause problems “I think people would be surelsewhere in the body. Heart dis- prised at some of the new evidence ease, strokes, diabetes, lung disease that shows links between mouth and premature or low birth weight problems and other illnesses,” said babies have been found to be related Brigitte. “Good oral health is a very to poor dental health. important part of our practice.”

1 - 21 October 08.indd 10

18/9/08 15:31:05

swindonlink.com • October 2008

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We are often asked ‘what’s the best way of finding out whether or not an Osteomyologist can help my problem?” We believe the answer can be found in a complete consultation and examination, including spinal scan, 3-D posture analysis and centre of gravity analysis. (Procedures that normally cost £140 or more) YOUR INITIAL VISIT WILL INCLUDE : ❏ A private consultation with the practitioner ❏ Spinal Scan & 3-D Postural Analysis if needed ❏ A thorough spinal examination including orthopaedic & neurological tests ❏ Confidential report of our findings ARE YOU EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SIGNALS? ❏ Headaches ❏ RTA injury ❏ Poor posture ❏ Sciatica ❏ Scoliosis ❏ Back & neck pain ❏ Trouble sleeping ❏ Lower energy levels ❏ Numbness in arms and legs

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Make an appointment today! Tel 01793 487829

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18/9/08 15:33:14

12 swindonlink.com • October 2008

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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

Probably Wiltshire’s widest selection of affordable lighting

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

Bold is back See the carpet or floor covering of your choice, where it will be laid, next to your other furnishings. Appointments to suit you: day, evening or weekend. Home Choose Carpets has over 30 year’s experience of serving customers in the Swindon area. Estimating is free. Luxury underlay, all accessories and installation are included in the price! There are no hidden extras - and no obligation.

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4 Wyndham Road Hawksworth Trading Estate Swindon Tel 01793 643200 Fax 01793 487776 swindon@brewers.co.uk

18/9/08 15:33:32

swindonlink.com • October 2008

13

An eye for fashion

Jean Ellis from Freshbrook wants to say how proud she is of her granddaughter Lyndsay Hodges who has just started a degree in fashion design at the University for the Creative Arts, Rochester. “She has done so well specialised in textiles Lyndsay completand worked so hard,” said and fashion. ed her A levels at New Jean, from Godolphin Close. “The degree course College, but already “Lyndsay designs and makes includes nine months had an unconditionsuch lovely garments; she is a work experience with al offer of a place credit to Freshbrook Primary a design company at Rochester on the and also Greendown. Her which will lead to a strength of her portdesign was used on the New job I hope. My focus folio. She said, “I’ve College end of year fashion is on haut couture loved art and design show programme which was and my long term aim since I was twelve at lovely.” is to get experience Greendown where in a fashion house Mr Smith helped me Right, Jean and Lyndsay. Far right, abroad then set up a lot. Lyndsay’s end of year work at New my own.” “At New College I College

npower respond to club’s potato plight

The volunteers who run the lunch club at Toothill Community Centre were in despair when their potato peeler blew up just before Christmas last year. The prospect of spending hours preparing potatoes for the pot filled them with dread and they appealed to South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove when she visited the centre. She mentioned the club’s situation to the charity committee at npower who came up with the cash to purchase another machine. Making lunch preparations easier, from left, Toothill “They saved us huge community centre coordinator Annette Kennedy, cook amounts of work,” said Sue Hull, volunteer Beryl Croton lunch club cook Sue Hull. “Our members love nicely prepared • npower also funded a new compotatos and also chips and the puter to replace the ageing machine npower peeler is just perfect for used for managing Toothill Community Centre. our needs.”

Last ever balloon launch

A colourful balloon send off took took place at the end of the summer term at Brimble Hill Special School on the North Swindon Learning Campus to raise £208. But it’s likely to be the last fundraising event of its kind because of damage to the environment. Swans can eat balloons and fish are harmed as chemicals leech into waterways. “The ballon launches have always been a good fundraiser, and the children love seeing the colours shooting into the sky,” said Amanda Musto, chair of the Friends of Brimble H i l l. “ B u t we’re told the ecological damage is too The Friends of Brimble Hill School committee with their children before the launch in July

1 - 21 October 08.indd 13

high and we have to find another way to raise money.” The Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown donated £200 to cover costs of the balloons.

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14 swindonlink.com • October 2008

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1 - 21 October 08.indd 14

Playing a part in town’s musical life

Any young person learning a musical instrument, including voice, can join Swindon biggest music club. There’s no need to play a musical Swindon Young Musicians run junior and intermediate sessions instrument to take part: all that is on Saturdays with wind bands, needed is a voice. The Young Voices groups for strings, guitars, record- choir has gained a professional ers and double reed instruments reputation and performs widely in Swindon. In October, the choir and choirs. On Wednesday evenings, there will be visiting Euro-Disney with is a club for more advanced ensem- the recorder orchestra. Learning theory need not be a bles. These include the symphonic wind ensemble, flute, choir, senior chore. Young Musicians teach it in strings group and the Swindon Jazz a fun and exciting way using the Orchestra which recently show- latest music software programs cased at the famous Marlborough such as Groovy Music. Swindon Young Musicians is part Jazz Festival. Budding rock stars can receive of the Swindon Music Service which tuition at the prestigious Rock also organises music lessons and School, run by Paul Ashman on instrumental tuition in schools. www.swindonmusicservice.org Tuesdays at Churchfields.

Seniors get in on the act

Bath based choir master Grenville Jones has set up Golden-Oldies singing groups in the city and Swindon Council’s housing department is launching similar singing sessions at sheltered homes here. Grenville held a pilot session at Elsie Hazel Court, Freshbrook in September where he was joined by deputy mayor David Wren, Swindon songstress Sheila Harrod of Kentwood Choir and seniors from other sheltered dwellings Weekly song sessions will start in November. Grenville, David and Sheila with Elsie Hazel residents Gill Russan and Wyn Luker

Schools won’t work without governors Paul Davis of Swindon Borough Council Governor Support Service says governors are crucial to schools, and more are needed Did you know that school governors represent the largest volunteer force in the country with approximately 300,000 members of the adult population serving in this capacity at any one time? Governors do not require any Just over 1,000 people serve as school governors within Swindon. specialist knowledge or experience as Swindon Borough Council’s But what do they do? A governing body’s overriding Governor Support Team provides responsibility is to work in part- training and support. They are able nership with the headteacher to to access this in a variety of ways promote continuous improvement including training courses and a designated helpline. in the performance of the school. A regular newsletter is also sent This involves preparing an improvement plan, which details the to all school governors to keep aspirations of the school and how them informed of developments in it is going to achieve them, the set- education policy and current best ting of challenging but achievable practices. Typically, a governor’s targets and the interpretation of duties require about six hours each information to assess progress and month, divided between preparation for and attending meetings and determine appropriate action. Governors are people who have visiting the school. Being a governor is stimulating, an interest in the role of schools in society and wish to make a positive enjoyable and rewarding. If you contribution to their communities. have the enthusiasm and desire They will have enquiring minds to become closely involved in and contribute to the effective the running of a local school, call day-to-day running of the school Governor Support for an informal and the educational achievements chat on 463875, or mail: pdavis@ swindon.gov.uk of its pupils.

19/9/08 12:02:14

swindonlink.com • October 2008

15

e If you would like to mak New regime at Nova Hreod to boost can-do attitude iends, increase new fr Nova Hreod’s new headteacher Julie Tridgell began the term heartened by improved GCSE results this ng and summer and with a determination to raise pupils’ outlook on their futures. your music maki In her first week Mrs funofjoin .... on young make ofsense ts e loto havpeople Tridgell introduced new systems and procedures to help pupils meet the high standards she expects of them. “Using the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, we’ve been looking at all of our rights to live together,” she said. “This touches individual behaviour, how we treat each other in school and how each perJulie Tridgell, firm but fair policies at Nova son behaves in their own neighbourhood.” aspiration; I want to see the art The changes have been met with of the possible throughout Nova a positive reaction from pupils. Mrs Hreod. There will be no longer be Tridgell believes this is because an ‘I can’t do that’ attitude. pupils recognise that her approach “Our pupils will be amongst the is fair and consistent. adults of our society in the near During assemblies she has been future and our job is to equip them talking to young people about their with the skills to be successful. life choices and the consequences “Growing up in the 21st Century of making the wrong choices. “I is so much more complicated than have set out to raise the level of when I was at school. The demands

everything around them are just so huge. Our aim at NovaSwindon’s Hreod is toNumber One Music Club for young people help pupils handle these pressures responsibly and effectively. Swindon Young This year’s GCSE results are a significant improvement on 2007. Mrs Musicians Tridgell said the school is still in transition and congratulated retired Choirs head, Andrew Fleet, on guiding Guitar groups pupils to 45 per cent good GCSE Jazz orchestras passes, a 10 per cent improvement on last year. She said her aim isgroups to Kinder build on the improvement.

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Teams of footballing fanatics are needed to take on Swindon Town players in aid of Prospect Hospice on 1 October, 7pm, in the Winners’ Lounge at the County Ground. To enter a team of up to seven at £35 call Russell on 07882 731728 or mail: SportingChance@live.co.uk

us on Rock groups conta on ct groups us .. contact..Recorder Percussion ensemblesfor more information

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Governors now being recruited for a new school opening in this area. ART1192/08

If you are thinking about ways of making a voluntary contribution to your local community or want to play an active part in the education of your child and the children in Swindon, have you considered joining the governing body of a school?

A new primary school will be opening in the area in 2009. The operator of the school, which will be confirmed early next year, will require volunteers to form a governing body and expressions of interest are required now.

Governors work with headteachers and staff to shape the future direction of our schools with the aim of helping all children achieve their full potential. Specialist knowledge and experience is not required as full training and support is provided.

If you would like to register an interest or would like to find out more about becoming a governor at any other school in the area, please contact Governor Support for an informal chat.

What we look for in volunteers is interest, enthusiasm and an average of six hours of your spare time each month.

1 - 21 October 08.indd 15

01793 463875 governorhelp@swindon.gov.uk

19/9/08 12:03:43

16 swindonlink.com • October 2008

Toot returns to review new school

Toot was a knitted mascot sold to raise money in the five years after the first Toothill Primary School opened in September 1978. To mark the start in a brand new replacement school, Toot emerged briefly from The Link’s archives of West Swindon to say hello. Teaching assistant and founda- nising the move with many of his proud; it’s a lovely building for both lower fuel bills from the solar panels tion governor Nicola Hoare remem- staff. “All the hard work planning educating children and for catering which supply hot water.” The old school will be demolished bered Toot being introduced to the for the school, discussing design for local needs in our community first children to start at the school ideas with council architects and rooms. It’s the start of a new era.” during half term. in 1978. Nursery assistant Melanie working out the practicalities of Mr Cowell was pictured in the Free places at nursery Lynch (née Gunter) also recalls the both running a school and prepar- July Link admiring the sedum roof Toothill Primary School’s nursery mascot from when she started at the ing to transfer buildings has been which covers most of the school. is open five sessions a week for school as a five year old in 1980. She worth it. ”The sedum is flourishing and re- children over three years of age on “It’s fantastic to move in at last. ally gives the building character. 31 August. For details about free was able to explain who Toot was to her five year old Bradley who now The council has done Toothill And we’re looking forward to much places, call 497250. attends Toothill School. Martyn Cowell with Toothill children, Chassidy Read, Jay Baines, Headteacher Martyn Cowell said First of three Georgia Ockwell and Tommy Fulton meeting Toot he was delighted to see the new Toothill is the first of three brand school open at last, after spending new schools to be built in the West most of the summer holidays orga- Swindon primary schools’ reorganisation orchestrated by Swindon Council. This has seen Salt Way primary close and Freshbrook and Windmill Hill primaries combined as Millbrook. Brand new schools at Shaw The Blackthorn School Ridge and Millbrook, on the former Freshbrook site, should open in of Photography September 2009. Digital image-making and black and white printing based at our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade Evening, day and weekend courses for beginners and advanced photographers www.photography-courses.com Tel: 01454 416937 or 07920 116492

The Willows building at Freshbrook coming down in August

Freshbrook Village Centre, Swindon ff 20% o y low Dr

B Cut andtudents

for s rt is adve with th ctober. O only in d ith vali w Only . d r a NUS c

Party day marks 25 years

Westlea Primary School held a birthday party on 12 September to mark its quarter of a century, and to show the permanence of the school - briefly considered for closure in 2003 as part of the West Swindon schools’ reorganisation - a cake in the shape of the school building was cut at a party for staff and former teachers the following day. Children took part in a day of fun so many people. The fact that there activities such as art, puppet mak- have only been three headteachers ing, sports and traditional party in twenty five years indicates the games, and ended with an assembly stability and continuity there has which included the finals of an been. Without a village centre the inter-class musical chairs competi- school has been very much the cention. Headteacher Suzanne Seaton tre of the Westlea community.” She added that the jubilee year entertained children by reading from the school log of the first day will be marked in 2009 with the planting of a silver birch when the on 12 September 1983. Afterwards parents joined chil- last mobile buildings are removed dren for a picnic which had to be and replaced by new classrooms. Westlea Primary opened with 100 held on the hall floor. Mrs Seaton said, “we’ve had a children and peaked with 430 pupils lovely day with lots of activities. in the early 1990s. Numbers have Westlea is a very special place for now settled down to 310. Suzanne Seaton, centre, with finalists from the musical chairs competition, senior teaching assistant Rebecca Clifforde who organised the celebrations, right, and cake making reception teacher Vicki John, who attended Westlea between 1986 and 1992

Call to make an appointment: 01793 873217

1 - 21 October 08.indd 16

19/9/08 12:06:07

swindonlink.com • October 2008

17

West students do well at Bradon Forest Be the star that you are at

Drama Babes

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Independent local theatre practitioner Classes in North & West Swindon and Cricklade “This is the best thing I have brought any of my children to in the last ten years”

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Fr e Le e T ss ri on al

Two former Tregoze Primary pupils put in star performances at Bradon Forest School when their GCSE results came through in the summer holidays. Katy Stewart achieved 11 A* and 1 A, plus an AS in Maths. Polly Leech gained 10 A* and 1 A. And up and coming tennis star Lucy Roze, despite a Some of the Bradon high achievers: Polly Leech, Daniel Bartlett, heavy training Katy Stewart, Rachel Hinder, Christopher Etheridge and tournament schedule served up an excellent “I was particularly pleased 2A* and 6A. that nine out of our fourteen top Headteacher Len Spiers said, students are from the West and “we were very pleased with the North of Swindon, the traditional performance and high standards set community area served by Bradon by our 2008 Year 11 students across Forest. the ability range. Well over half (64 “Students have enjoyed well per cent) of our 223 students gained deserved success which is due to 5 or more higher grade passes, with the dedication and hard work of 74 students (35 per cent) obtaining our staff, teaching and support, 10 or more higher grade passes supported by parents and gover(A* - C). nors.”

Bid to keep Oakhurst school local

In September, The Link reported that school places could be offered to children outside North Swindon if a faith organisation were to run Oakhurst primary. Residents, who won a successful submits a proposal in November. campaign to secure a school on the Parents will have an opportunity to Pioneer Road site at the beginning of comment on the bids in a consultathe year, were surprised to learn that tion period built into the competithere is still no guarantee that the tion process. I’m sure they will be school will give priority to children keeping up with developments.” Coun Justin Tomlinson, who living nearby. Although Swindon Council has was also flooded by e-mails and agreed to build the school and telephone calls after the September wants to manage it, government Link was published, said the borlegislation now requires that other ough council would definitely be interested groups be given the op- bidding to both build and run the portunity to tender to run schools school. “Oakhurst Primary School will be more than filled by the local in a competition process. At a public seminar to explain population in the coming years and the competition rules in July, Sahid it is our view that it should provide Sahu, chair of the Swindon Al- the maximum number of potential Habib education centre, expressed places for local residents.” The final date for applications an interest in running a school to meet the needs of Muslim families to run the school is 10 November across the whole of Swindon as well after which the proposals will be displayed at a public meeting later as the Oakhurst community. Melanie Eastwood, whose in the month. daughter Millie is due to start school in September 2010, was Admissions advice in the only parent from Oakhurst to North Swindon attend the meeting. She appeared in September’s Link calling for oth- Education officers and admisers affected to contact her and has sions staff from Swindon Council are offering parents personal received a flood of emails. She said many had missed the advice on school applications for public meeting as they had not 2009/10 which have to be in by 14 understood what it was about. November. An informal public meeting at Or“The article did the trick as it was definitely a wake- up call for the chid Vale Primary School has been community to be concerned about organised by Coun Justin Tomlinson their school. I’ve been in close touch and takes place on Monday 13 with councillors Vera and Justin October, 6pm to 8pm. “A similar meeting last year Tomlinson, who say Swindon Borough Council will be submitting a helped a number of parents and I hope many again will take up proposal to build the school. “We’ll find out whether another this opportunity to seek individual organisation, religious or not, also advice.”

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18 swindonlink.com • October 2008

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

Deutsche Spielgruppe

German-speaking toddler group meets in the West

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

Members of the toddler group for German speakers celebrated their first birthday with a party at Salt Way Children’s Centre in early September.

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

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 & garden Grant places available For information call: 01793 851495

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

Head Rush HAIR & BEAUTY

Beauty by Mandy

Hairdressing

• Waxing • Manicures

• Colouring tints - foils

• Pedicures

• Perms

• Spray tan

• Extensions

• Nail extensions

• Bridal hair

• Tooth gems

• Children’s haircuts

• Cutting

• Prom hair ups

• Make Up • Eye treatments

£5 off Spray tan in Oct ober (no r mally £25) with th is adver t

FF 10% cOolour

Back: Julie, Mandy & Sheralee Front: Gemma

Tel: 01793 602552

ever y 30 in over £ ber Octo

with t dver this a

73 Basepoint Business Centre Rivermead, Westlea, Swindon Behind Renault building/Allen Ford

Free parking • Late night Wednesday & Thursday Cash or cheque payments only

1 - 21 October 08.indd 18

The idea came from Lisa Mullan who was keen for her daughter to meet other German speakers. Although Lisa is English, she spent seven years working and studying in Germany and felt strongly that she wanted her daughter Sarah to benefit from a second language. She has spoken only German to Sarah since she was born in 2006. “I think a second language is one of the greatest gifts that you can give a child; and it doesn’t matter what language it is,” said Lisa. “Sarah hears English from her dad and the rest of the family and she now speaks a happy mixture of languages. She talks German to me and English to her Dad, and she translates if she thinks we don’t

understand.” The toddler group has brought together German families from around the town. “The group has really taken off well; we’ve all met lovely new friends,” said Lisa. “We’d also like to thank Kay Kane and the staff of the Salt Way Centre for welcoming us.” The Deutsche Spielgruppe wants to increase its resources, particularly German books which could be used at story time. To donate books and German language materials call Lisa on 340589. The group meets on Fridays, 10am to 11.30am during term time at Salt Way Children’s Centre and welcomes new members keen to meet German speakers.

Learning Japanese through play

Nobinobi, a group which helps children get to grips with Japanese, meets at Upper Shaw Farm community centre twice a month. When Sawako Halton lived in the group and means to grow up free Yorkshire, with no Japanese friends and lively. Children aged between in the area, she decided to speak three and ten are welcome at the only English to her new born son. sessions which include a mixture of Now she says she regrets that Japanese songs, games and seasonal she didn’t start communicating in activities. The group meets every fortnight her own language but is introducing him to the language and uses and the timetable varies to avoid a mixture of English and Japanese clashes with other Japanese groups. with her 18 month old daughter. Some of the meetings are arranged Having move to Swindon with for a weekend so that school age her English husband, she found children can attend. www.nobinobi.co.uk groups mainly aimed at more fluent Japanese speakers which she thought would be daunting for youngsters who speak mainly English. Sawako and some of her friends decided to set up a group for children who come from a mixed JapaneseEnglish background. Nobinobi describes the spirit of

18/9/08 15:38:20

swindonlink.com • October 2008

19

Fantastic savings for families Swindon Link has teamed up with localkids.co.uk, the directory website which lists both family activities and services and offers discounts to make life more affordable. The pages are accessible to everybody but membership allows people to take advantage of discounts offered by local and national businesses. Maria Basson who set up the Swindon branch of Local Kids in July said that although the name refers to kids, there is something for all the family. “The idea is to build up a point of reference for the family across the age range to make the family pound go further.” Membership costs £14.99 a year

Kids charities to benefit by joining When you’re signing up for localkids.co.uk quote our affiliate number - 9741ae9e and The Link will donate £1 to Swindon based children’s groups

which could be easily saved in one trip to see Billy Smart’s Circus, appearing in Swindon from 14 to 19 October. Front circle tickets normally cost £13 but are on offer at £5 to Local Kids’ members. Other local deals include discounts at Tenpin, Cineworld and Churchill House in Wootton Bassett. Maria said that people have told her they want more activities for older children and she is actively seeking offers for 10 to 13 year olds, such as paintballing and craft activities. For adults wanting to get into shape, there are discounts at Fitness First and Rosemary Connelly Slimming Club. In the pipeline are offers for hair and beauty, complementary therapies and restaurants. Among the national offers are reductions on family holidays with Haven, Butlins and Eurocamp. For half term treats, there are savings on days out at Cadbury’s World, Alton Towers and Drayton Manor. Check www.localkids.co.uk for the latest discounts available.

Fame for Drama Babes

Since their launch a year ago, news of Drama Babes theatre play classes has reached the national newspapers, including The Times, where they were ranked number one activity for kids. Fiona Da Silva-Adams from Shaw said she has been overwhelmed by people’s response to her vision of classes where three to six year olds can act out stories for pure enjoyment. During a typical class, children fly off on an imaginary magic carpet to exciting destinations where they create stories; led by Fiona but always adapted with their own ideas. Fiona, who previously managed the Sixth Sense First anniversary for Fiona and Drama Babes Theatre Company, started Drama Babes when she couldn’t parents enrolling said they had find the type of class she wanted for spotted details of the group in The her son Xavier. Originally intended Guardian and The Independent. to be a small affair with a couple of She puts her success down to havsessions a week, within months, ing created the format herself which numbers had grown to 80 children a means she can respond to what week. Fiona has enlisted the help of children and parents want. “I’m two assistants to help run sessions always listening to the children. in North and West Swindon. Even though I have every lesson It came as a surprise to Fiona planned, I am very adaptable. If the that Drama Babes was featured at children take us off on a tangent, number one in The Times ’Top Five that’s where we go.” for Kids’ listing in June. After that, www.dramababes.co.uk

Wiltshire Christmas Gifts and Crafts Show 1 & 2 November, Oasis Leisure Centre

A showcase for local craftsmen and women & small businesses To book a stall call 07747 804487 www.wiltshireshow.co.uk

1 - 21 October 08.indd 19

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20 swindonlink.com • October 2008

Lights for Learning relaunches web site

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd Providing mortgage services for the community since 1987

Migrate to a better mortgage this autumn

and think about how much you might save for Christmas We may be able to find you a lower interest rate. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage. Whether you’re planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your property, with over 20 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service. There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but the maximum will be £300. However, no completion no fee. Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Swindon

e: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance

1 - 21 October 08.indd 20

H0083791

772779

Swindon councillor Justin Tomlinson was so impressed with Lights for Learning at a meeting arranged by The Link that he has promised to champion the charity’s work in political circles. He also immediately offered practical help by upgrading the charity’s web site which should go live in early October. For many living in developing countries, once the sun sets, the only light comes from smoky and dangerous kerosene lamps. On seeing these in Kenya several years ago, Cricklade inventor Roger Mugridge devised an easily installed solar powered lighting system which enables children Justin Tomlinson holding a dangerous paraffin wick and adults to study safely lamp with Roger and his solar powered demonstration kit into the evening. There are now Lights for Learning he is investigating whether books installations around the world and donated to libraries could be passed on 29 October Roger and eight vol- on to the schools being lit up. unteers will make a second visit to Justin’s effort is much appreciZambia where they will fit out sixty ated said Roger. “We had been rooms in three remote schools. talking about improving the web The £17,000 cost for equipment site and his offer came just at the was raised by Harrogate Grammar right time which is fantastic.” School in Yorkshire. www.lightsforlearning.org “We take instant light for granted, Curry night for Lights said Justin. “But from talking to Roger and seeing his photographs, Enjoy a curry, meet the Lights for it is clear that the solar powered Learning team and see a demonlights are giving children and adults stration at a curry for charty night so many more opportunities to learn at the Bombay Lounge, Peatmoor on 13 October. after dark.” Call 887799 to book a table. As cabinet member for libraries

First appearance for Debutots

When Jenni Saunders couldn’t find a Debutots group close to home, she decided to set one up herself. Debutots is a blend of interactive storytelling and dramatic play. “When I saw there were none in the area, I decided it would be perfect for me,” said Jenni, who has a degree in drama and has two pre-school children. Baby Story Play, for children aged 6 months to 2 years group gets on their feet and retells is all about exploring the magic of the story together.” Parents also take part in the stories, sounds and words through play. The interactive sessions are an storytelling. “The more involved exciting way to stimulate commu- they are the better. If parents are nication. Early Years Drama classes enthusiastic the children are more for 2 to 7 year olds take children into willing to join in.” Debutots meet at Christ Church imaginary worlds through story. Self esteem is raised and language in Old Town on Monday mornings skills developed as children explore and St Margaret’s Centre in Stratton feelings, words, sounds, movement on Monday afternoons. Jenni also offers classes to nurserand their relationship with others. “Each session is based round ies, schools and mother and toddler a new story which is original to groups and runs Debutots parties Debutots,” explained Jenni, above. for children’s birthdays. To arrange a free trial, call Jenni “I tell the story with plenty of opportunities for children to join on 325785 www.debutots.co.uk in. Once it’s been told, the whole

19/9/08 12:18:37

21

DO YOU NEED A HAT? T hen call

In Haydon Wick

Special SALE

3-D genie and Eastenders’ Barry get ready for big panto extravaganza

Join other Link readers on the first night: 5 December The Link has teamed up with the Wyvern Theatre to fill the first night of this year’s amazing panto Aladdin. There are lots of extras if you book your tickets for the first show on 5 December, 7.30pm, including: • £1 off each ticket; • a chance to meet Abanazar after the show who will also give you Barry from Eastenders if you prefer; • Wyvern goody bags; • a collection on the night for Swindon CALM and Lights for Learning.

Jenny-Anne Dexter, the Wyvern’s marketing manager, said Aladdin is going to be a fantastic show with lots of surprises. “As well as the very friendly Shaun Williamson in the lead role as Abanazar, plus dancers

from Swindon, you’ll see a 3D genie emerge from the magic lamp, see inside his fascinating cave and take off on a magic carpet ride. “Swindon’s never seen anything like it and we’re pleased to be working with The Link to make the very first show go with a bang.” To be one of the first 600 in the town to experience this year’s Aladdin, call the Wyvern box office on 524481 for tickets quoting Swindon Link. Aladdin runs from Friday 5 December to Sunday 4 January 2009.

of Summer & Winter hats 27th, 28th & 29th October Please telephone 01793 704005 or 07710 298790 after 18th October for an appointment to see the selection. www.hirehats.co.uk

Are you looking for a new partner?

• Are you hoping to meet someone locally? • Would you like a choice of how you meet - on-line or at a hosted dinner in a local restaurant? See the new website which covers the Wilts SN postcode area and counties of Berks/Hampshire/Dorset/Somerset/Glos/Oxon

Register during October and get FREE subscription until 2009

snandsingle.co.uk

Lego and pirates to take over STEAM in October

The Great Western Lego Show at STEAM, Museum of the Great Western Railway on 4 and 5 October includes massive model railway displays built entirely from Lego bricks, Lego play tables, the chance to get your own Lego bricks personalised, plus Lego prizes and great Lego bargains. Captain Jack Sparrow will be visiting on 25 and 26 October for a weekend of piratical fun. Children can join in with a massive pirate party which will include a pirate disco, face painting, giant inflatables, a treasure hunt and a fancy dress competition. Special admission prices apply for both of these events: £7.50 (adults); £5.50 (children and concessions). A family ticket costs £24 (2 adults and 2 children) and £27 for 2 adults and 3 children. For details see the advert on page 23 or www.swindon.gov.uk/ steam At half term Smiley Cats Kidz Club returns to STEAM on 29 and 30 October, 9.30am to 1pm, to offer structured fun like circus skills, parachute games, face painting, arts and crafts, plus a supervised tour of the museum. The cost is £11 per session or £8.60 with a Swindon Card.

21-52 October 08.indd 21

18/9/08 15:46:22

Swindon Wide

22

So Elegant 1st Anniversar y Sale We are celebrating with an

End of Season Sale Many 2008 designs with

50% OFF or more Why not take advantage and buy your Christmas dress, Prom gown, Mother of the Bride or Groom outfit, early? AUTUMN/WINTER STOCK AND CHRISTMAS GIFTS NOW IN STOCK

Sizes 4 - 26

94 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon Tel: 01793 608822 www.so-elegant.co.uk Opening times: Tuesday to Friday 11am - 5pm • Saturday 10am - 5pm

Murder Mystery

Thursday 30th October 2008 “DEATH OF THE PSYCHIC DETECTIVE” Join us in Nichols restaurant for an exciting evening of murder and mystery. Arrive at 7.30pm as detective work starts at 7.45, let our murder team take you through the plot! You will be seated at 8pm, then sit back, watch, observe and try and solve the murder - you are all detectives!!! Don’t be late as you could miss some vital clues.

£35.00 per person to include a set 4 course dinner

Status Quo Tribute

Friday 24th October 2008 An adrenaline charged set sees the band crash their way through Quo’s best known hits. Any temptation to ‘lighten up’ has been firmly resisted. What you get is Heads Down, No-Nonsense Boogie. Counterfeit Quo have been given the seal of approval from Quo’s very own Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt

Tickets are £35.00 per person including a set 4 course candle lit dinner Doors Open at 8.00pm. (Not suitable for children) Why not meet your party in Carrie’s Bar for a pre-dinner drink?

21-52 October 08.indd 22

Spinning a yarn at Borders

Children’s author and Storysacks creator, Neil Griffiths, will launch a suspenseful spider story and a read about a racing challenge this month at Borders, North Swindon District Centre. Prizes, competitions and riotous ticularly popular in the Middle East fun are promised at the North Swin- and Hong Kong. Some have been don store on Saturday 25 October, translated into French, Welsh and 10.30am to noon. “There’s a Spider Cantonese. in the Bath is a must for spider lovIt is 11 years since Neil left ers and a great way to introduce Westlea Primary where he was children to how friendly they are,” head teacher. Storysacks Ltd was said Neil. “It’s also perfect for this launched a year later and since spooky time of year.” then, Neil has worked at a whirlwind The story is about Stanley who pace spreading the word about always has a string of excuses Storysacks around the world. for not having a bath. This time, it www.cornertolearn.co.uk isn’t Stanley who is spinning a yarn. Neil will also be reading, Where Have You Two Been? which he describes as a racy read about a challenge between a hedgehog and a deer. Neil’s stories are sold around the world and have been par-

Emporium for dolls at Studley Grange

Everything an interior designer needs to create a beautiful home can be found at Studley Grange craft village: scaled down to one twelfth the usual size. The Dolls House Workshop a Victorian townhouse to a pretty stocks wallpaper, carpets, miniature country cottage. Once the house has lights and even Christmas trees been chosen, people are welcome to to furnish a dream home. It is the put it together in the workshop and sole outlet in Swindon for Dolls will be given the support they need House Emporium products said to complete their building work. Owner Sue Shea can advise Studley Grange owner, Tony Miller. “We are now able to supply the full on getting the interior just right, range of these products including with finishing touches to make the the monthly special offers, at the houses look lived in. She runs susame discounted prices found on pervised workshops, where people the Dolls House Emporium website, can customise unfinished furniture without the delivery charge. You and create finishing touches, every can also inspect the quality before Wednesday and Friday. There is a beginners and children’s session on you buy.” The Workshop has eighteen Sundays, 9.30am to 11.30am. www.studleygrange.co.uk house styles for sale, ranging from

Formal dress for less at So Elegant

With the party season just around the corner, So Elegant has taken delivery of a new selection of evening gowns, cocktail dresses and elegant suits. Diane Wood and her business a dress shop when they realised partner, Jacky Jones, celebrate there was a gap in the market one year in business this month. for pretty gowns that are on sale Based on experience gained over throughout the year, particularly the year, they have extended their prom dresses. So Elegant will be range for this season. “We noticed taking part in prom fashion shows at that many ladies who are going on local secondary schools in the New cruises come to us in winter for Year and will be showing a selection simple, elegant styles,” said Diane. of evening and cocktail gowns at the “We’ve also started stocking Mother Wiltshire Christmas Show on 1 and 2 November at the Oasis. of the Bride or Groom outfits.” To make way for new stock, To complete the look, So Elegant sells a range of wraps and shawls, there will be an end of season sale hats and fascinators, jewellery and throughout October. Sale items inhandbags many of which would clude designer label gowns, dresses and outfits. make ideal Christmas presents. See the advert above left. Diane and Jacky decided to open

19/9/08 12:24:51

Swindon Wide

23

‘We want you to tell us your story’

That’s the message from a new project being launched by Swindon’s Community Radio station - 105.5FM and Swindon Link. before the railway works closed. We’re looking for people We’re delighted to work with who used to work ‘inside’ in 105.5FM to publicise the project the railways. Did your famto develop an oral history of such ily run a local business for an important industry to the town. many years? Do you have I can imagine it could branch out a story to tell about moving beyond the railways into why peoto Swindon and settling in? ple moved to Swindon to contribDo you remember growing ute to its ongoing success.” up in Swindon... the canal... If you know anybody with railsteam engines... the blackway connections who would like to smiths... early bus travel... talk about their life, call 611555 or growing up with a new housmail: info@swindon1055.com ing estate... school days... being part of the early/dewww.swindon1055.com veloping arts scene... ? “There are so many stories, so many experiences, and we want to capture Emily Roberts from Abbey Meads, the volthose valuable memories of unteer from 105.5 who will be leading the life in Swindon,” said station oral history project in front of Roy Nash’s manager Shirley Ludford. photographs taken inside the works exhibited “We at 105.5FM are keen at West Swindon Library in September Friday 31 October to record lives and experiences as preserving those memories for 6.30pm - 8.45pm an on-going initiative - to build an posterity.” & Saturday Swindon Link publisher Roger oral history of the town. Everyone 1 November has a story to tell and we would Ogle said, “the magazine started 6pm - 8.45pm like to capture them for broadcast, nearly 30 years ago, a few years

HALLOWEEN

Two engines for the price of one

Evening Star has arrived from York and King George V was supposed to be sent there. But they are both currently in STEAM to view. When KGV will be taken is uncertain, so make a visit as soon as possible to see Swindon’s most famous engines in one place.

Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Trains: 11am-4pm Cafe, shop and free parking

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

Swindon’s widest choice of discounted 20th ry ersa

anniv

Art, Craft and Framing products

Lots of extra bargains Framework Art & Craft Unit 35 BSS House Cheney Manor, Swindon

Ample free parking Well worth a visit! Tel/Fax 01793 513069

Email: mail@facswindon.co.uk www.facswindon.co.uk

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

BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town, Swindon Tel: 534271

Weekend ilFyunFuWneekend m a F AM Family S T EM S T EA

on AM EM n o T 6 S o t uynday 2 Ce otmo eS T EA5 andnS a d m 2 u o pm C adtauyrd2a5y and 0Sam oto55.0.000pm S r Satu ctober,1100.0.00 am t O ber, and 2 6 Octo ,mgeasmaesnd nd n u f f a o g Loadfs fun, irates da Loadsmpo etitsionfsorfpoirraptes an co ion competeiitr friesn!ds! th end their fri

TheGreat GreatWestern Western The LEGO Show Show LEGO ®

®

Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 October, Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 October, 10.00 am to 5.00 pm 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

Featuring amazing model displays built entirely from Featuring amazing model displays built entirely from LEGO bricks and many LEGO attractions! LEGO bricks and many LEGO attractions! ®

LEGO is a registered trademark of the LEGO group. ® LEGO is a registered trademark of the LEGO group.

Special admission prices apply - please see our website or call 01793 466646. Swindoncard discounts available. Free parking at the Outlet Centre car parks (just hand your STEAM ticket in at the Parking kiosk).

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2TA. Tel: 01793 466646. www.swindon.gov.uk/steam

STEAM Museum of The Great Western Railway

21-52 October 08.indd 23

18/9/08 15:49:16

24

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Wednesday 1st, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital with Corinne Frost (cello) and Paul Turner (piano). £5, buffet £3.50. Wyvern Thursday 2nd, 8pm Karen Matheson - widely recognised as the haunting vocals of Celtic supergroup Capercaillie £14. Arts Centre Thursday 2nd, 7.30pm Jake and Elwood. The best Blues Brothers show in the world. An electrifying night of non-stop music. Also featuring the critically-acclaimed Black Rhino Band. £18.50. Wyvern Saturday, 4th, 7.30pm Reggae Night. The Erin Bardwell Collective plus ska & soul DJ Preston Steel. £5. Moose Hall, Eastcott Road. Saturday 4th, 7.30pm Pegasus Brass Band Annual Gala. Join the band on a musical journey from Musical Beginnings to the Last Night of the Proms. £8. Wyvern Saturday 4th, 8pm

ell Coln Steel. .

Derrin Nauendorf Band. Derrin blends his own rootsier, bluesier sound with the influences of Bob Dylan and British folk. Supported by Swindon’s Kit Hawes. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 4th, 8pm Swindon Choral Society Concert. Brahm’s German Requiem and Dvorak’s Te Deum. Conducted by Robin Nelson these works will be accompanied by local pianists Shelley Morgan FTCL LRAM and Ian Crabb FRCO. Tickets, £10, from Swindon Tourist Information, under 18s free. Holyrood Church, Groundwell Sunday 5th, 3pm Oxford Philomusica. Schubert, Mozart and Beethoven. £18. Wyvern Sunday 5th, 7pm Les Bruce Big Band. Concert in aid of Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, with guest vocalist Hazel Godden. To book call 692903. £8 or £16 to include buffet/wine reception after the performance. Arts Centre Tuesday 7th, 7.30pm Dominic Kirwan. One of Ireland’s most dynamic and versatile performers with a fast moving and spectacular show. £17. Wyvern Thursday 9th, 7.30pm Jacqui Dankworth. Award-winning performer influenced by jazz, soul, folk and blues. £18. Wyvern Friday 10th, 8pm Matt Munro Jr. A sentimental journey to rediscover the hits of his legendary father. Matt is accompanied by Colin Keyes, Matt Sr’s musical director. £17.50. Wyvern

21-52 October 08.indd 24

Saturday 11th, 8pm A Night at the West End. Song and dance numbers from current and recent West End hits. £11. Wyvern Sunday 19th, 7.30pm Maddy Prior. Steeleye Span singer Maddy Prior returns to her roots with her first traditional acoustic folk tour in years. £16. Arts Centre Tuesday 21st, 7.30pm Pete Allen Jazz Band. One of this country’s best loved jazz bands celebrates 30 years on the road. £14.50. Arts Centre Thursday 23rd to Sat 25th & Tues 28th Oct to Sat 1st Nov, 7.30pm & 2.30pm Saturday matinees Thoroughly Modern Millie, a musical presented by SALOS. It’s 1922 and Millie Dillmount has just arrived in New York City from Kansas, looking for a new life. Millie flaps and taps her way through the roaring 20’s, but she soon realises that there’s more to being modern than the latest fashions, and bobbed hair. There’s a little thing called love that never seems to go out of style! £11 to £16. Wyvern Friday 24th, 8pm Larry Miller Band. Unadulterated rock and blues is very much Larry’s style as he fast becomes the UK’s top new blues guitarist. £10. Arts Centre Saturday 25th, 8pm Bob Bowles Band. Local musician Bob Bowles (lead guitar and vocals) is joined by Stuart Rowe (bass), Charlie Rowe (drums) and Paul Jobson (keyboards) to play rock and blues favourites. £10. Arts Centre Sunday 26th, 7.30pm Sing-a-Long-a ABBA Live. The concert event ABBA fans have been waiting for.The Swedish supergroup’s greatest hits performed live with onscreen lyrics so everyone can join in! Fancy dress is not obligatory but highly recommended! £17. Wyvern

Dance

Monday 13th, 7.45pm Entity - Wayne McGregor / Random Dance. A diptych of contrasting works performed by ten dancers and set to live music. Post-show talk with members of the company. £16. Wyvern Thursday 16th, Friday 17th & Saturday 18th, 7.30pm Rhythm is a Dancer. A dance spectacular with over 200 local children, featuring jazz, ballet, modern dance and tap. £10.50. Wyvern Monday 27th, 12noon English Youth Ballet Auditions. An exciting opportunity for 100 boys and girls ages 8 to 18 years to perform the full-length classical ballet Coppelia on 19th to 21st February 2009. Juniors: 8 -11 years auditions: 4.30pm to 6.15pm. Seniors: 12-18 years: 6.45pm to 8.30pm. For audition pack and registration form call 0208 691 2806 or e-mail misslewis@englishyouthballet.co.uk

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On in October Comedy

Friday 3rd, 8pm Jongleurs Comedy Club. Swindon’s Premier Comedy Club. Suitable for over 18s only. £10. Wyvern Friday 3rd, 8pm

Neil Innes and Fatso. An evening of music and merriment with Neil Innes, Brian Hodgson, John Halsey, Billy Bremner and Roger Rettig. £15. Arts Centre Sunday 5th, 8pm Rich Hall Aka Otis Lee Crenshaw. This grouchy, deadpan, comic genius quit his job as a hurricane namer for the US Meteorological Service 18 years ago and hasn’t looked back. £15. Wyvern Monday 6th, 8pm Puppetry of the Penis.Two strapping Aussies putting their privates through their paces. £15.50. Wyvern Wednesday 8th, 8pm 4 Poofs & A Piano. An eclectic mix of song and dance, from jaunty reworkings of classic covers to comic observations of life in the noughties. £14.50. Arts Centre Friday 10th, 8pm Jason Manford. The multi-award winning comedian and star embarks on his first live national tour with an exciting and hilarious show. £12. Arts Centre Tuesday 14th, 8pm Joe Pasquale Back On The Road. Last year Joe went on sabbatical to go in search of the ancient muffin of San Miguel. He’ll be passing everything he has learnt to his adoring public. If you’ve never seen a show that makes any sense then make this one your first! £17.50. Wyvern Sunday 19th, 8pm Russell Howard Dingledodies. Still unfashionably fond of humanity, the star of Mock The Week and BBC6 Music, Russell’s back with his fifth new stand-up show following 3 sellout tours in the space of just a year. £15. Wyvern Thursday 23rd, 8pm Chris Cox - Control Freak. BBC Radio 1’s resident magician Chris Cox fuses magic and psychology to create a unique interactive theatrical experience. £12. Arts Centre Friday 31st, 8pm Edinburgh and Beyond 2008. Paramount Comedy and Avalon Promotions Ltd present the Edinburgh and Beyond Live Tour with four of Britain’s finest comic talents, Glenn Wool, Dan Atkinson, Isy Suttie and Joe Wilkinson. £12. Arts Centre

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Children & Family

Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th Great Western Lego Train Show. See advert on page 23 Saturdays 11th & 25th Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railworkers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges. Steam Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th, 7.30pm Micro Musicals - Return to the Forbidden Planet. Captain Tempest’s spaceship crashes on the planet D’illyria with scientist Doctor Prospero, his teenage daugher Miranda and their robot. But what unfinished business does the ship’s science officer have with Prospero? £8. To book tickets call 825645. Arts Centre Tuesday 14th to Sunday 19th Billy Smart’s Circus. Westcott Recreation Ground. See advert on page 19 Monday 20th, 4.30pm Potted Potter - The Unauthorised Harry Experience. Comic double act Dan and Jeff take on the ultimate challenge with the help of endless costumes, brilliant songs, silly props and a helping of Hogwarts magic to produce all the Potter books in 70 minutes. Suit ages 6+. £9, children £7. Arts Centre Wednesday 22nd, 10am - 2pm Apple Celebration at the Wednesday cafe.Taste a selection of apple dishes, play apple games and help make apple juice. Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th School’s Out at STEAM. Sparkling party weekend for half term fun. Scary make-up sessions, circus skills, children’s entertainer, fancy dress competition, inflatables. For 11 year olds and under. Special admission price. STEAM Wednesday 29th, 10.30am 3.30pm Half Term Activity Day. Cooking, crafts and games with an autumnal and global theme. For 5 to 12 year olds; wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch. £15/child. Book in advance on 771080. Lower Shaw Farm Thursday 30th, 2pm - 4pm Amazing animals - workshop for children linked to Echoes exhibition. Design and make a sculpture of an animal, real or imaginary. Suitable for ages 5 -11. £5 /child. Booking advised, call 466556. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Friday 31st October and Saturday 1st November, 6.30pm - 8.45pm Halloween on Swindon & Cricklade Railway. See advert on page 23

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19/9/08 12:26:11

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Theatre

Swindon Wide What’s On in October

Wednesday 1st, 7.30pm My Brilliant Divorce. When Angela Lipsky’s husband has an affair she finds herself adrift in a sea of shifty solicitors, a disapproving mother, a series of helpline counsellors and Christmas all on her own. Starring award winning comedienne Dillie Keane. £18.50. Wyvern Thursday 9th, 7.30pm Blue/Orange presented by Plain Clothes Theatre. In a London psychiatric hospital, an enigmatic patient claims to be the son of an African dictator - a story that becomes unnervingly plausible. £10. Arts Centre

Friday 10th, 7.30pm Murder Mystery Evening. Enjoy a three course meal in the new Circle Restaurant as you solve the mystery unfolding before you. Watch the scenes, interrogate suspects and search for hidden clues. £34. Wyvern

Dance with music by Irish recording star Seamus Moore and his J.C.B. Band

For colours, cuts or the latest re-style

Tel: 490947

13 Rodbourne Rd, Swindon Call now to book an appointment with Haley, Trina or Jenna

Schwarzkopf Sun Guardian offer £19.99

Saturday 11 October, 8pm Exhibition of Irish dancing Polish Club, Whitbourne Avenue, Park South £10, on the door, or call 642368 Maloney School of Irish Dancing

Talks & activities

Wednesday 8th, 10am History of the British Red Cross. Melanie Ball speaks at a meeting of Thamesdown Probus Club. For details call 765215. Blunsdon House Hotel Monday 8th, 7.30pm Have You Had It Long, Madam? A unique stage show about the BBC’s highly successful Antiques Roadshow, presented by Hilary Kay and Paul Atterbury. £16. Wyvern Friday 10th, 7.30pm Echoes. Talk by sculptor, James Castle, linked to the Echoes exhibition. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Sunday 12th, 11am - 4pm Autumn Art Event. A local artist will lead the day– outside if the weather is nice. Bring your own materials and picnic. Drinks provided. Organised by the Swindon Wildlife Group. £4, booking essential, call Terry King on 487154 Wednesday 22nd, 10am Improving your photography. Derek Gale speaks at a meeting of Thamesdown Probus Club. For details call 765215. Blunsdon House Hotel Wednesday 29th, 7.30pm Mervyn Peake - The Man and His Art. An illustrated presentation and talk by his son, author Sebastian Peake. To mark the fortieth anniversary of Peake’s death a collection of his poems have been newly published as well as a personal biography. £7. Arts Centre

Exhibitions

To Saturday 11th Step Back by Gordon Dickinson.Take another look at the full picture. Free. Arts Centre From Saturday 4th Echoes. James Castle explores connections between painting and sculpture, through his own works and a selection from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Monday 6th to Saturday 11th, 10am to 5pm Art Exhibition/Open Studios. A chance to meet the artists, Vikki Loeber-Hughes and Karen Miller and watch them at work using a variety of styles and mediums. Free. Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35, BSS House, Cheney Manor Trading Estate From Tuesday 14th Diwali Celebration by Sangita Kapadia. The biggest Hindu festival spreads joy, enthusiasm and unity through light, colour and food, across the world. Free. Arts Centre Saturday 25 October to Saturday 1 November, 10am - 4pm Highworth Artists’ Society Exhibition. Watercolours, pastels, oils and acrylics will be on display and for sale. Highworth Council Community Room

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Film

Wednesday 1st, 7.45pm The Counterfeiters (15). Oscar winning drama from Germany, about the largest conterfeiting scam in history run by the Nazis in a concentration camp. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 22nd, 7.45pm Mountain Patrol (15). Awesome ecoadventure from the ‘roof of the world’, about a man’s relentless struggle to save the Tibetan antelope from poachers. SFS. Arts Centre

Fundraising Friday 10 October, 7.30pm Quiz Night with Chilli Supper in aid of SOL (Swindon Ocotal Link) Even Swindon Community Centre Jennings Street, Rodbourne £10 / Cons.£5 / Under 12s £2 For tickets in advance call 495073 Please bring your own drinks www.swindonocotal-link.org Saturday 11 October 12noon - 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice Reiki, Thai massage, reflexology, facial massage, make-overs, eyebrow threading, aromatherapy and more. Also crystals and jewellery £2. Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive, Westlea Raffle and refreshments in aid of Koalas Swindon Opportunity Group Friday 31st, 7.30pm Halloween Party for Adults To raise sponsorship for Twin Peak walkers to take part in the Lake Myvatn marathon in Iceland in 2009 in aid of Walk the Walk and the Penny Brohn Cancer Care Centre in Bristol Buffet, band, auction, raffle and a prize for best fancy dress outfit Tickets : £28 each or £25pp for groups of ten or more To book tickets or offer prizes call Mandy: 827672 or Val: 879661 Hilton Hotel, Junction 16

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House Lydiard Tregoze. Tel: 770401 Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane. Tel: 771080 STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway. Kemble Drive. Tel: 466646 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

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   21-52 October 08.indd 27

18/9/08 16:00:50

Swindon Wide

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Cashback curries keep charities happy

The charity curry nights at the Bombay Lounge at Peatmoor Village Centre and Planet Bollywood in Gorse Hill coordinated by The Link have been earning community groups and charities loads of money since they were launched in February. The Bombay has been entertaining groups on Monday nights since February and due to popular demand profits from some Tuesday nights are also being donated. Planet Bollywood joined the curry for charity project in June and profits from Tuesday and Thursday evenings are offered to groups. Hanif Robbani at the Bombay Lounge said he’s delighted with the enthusiasm for enjoying a curry. “People who come along with other volunteers in the group say how

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the Isle of Wight and much they enjoy the Wiltshire. It helps friendly informal atchildren with life mosphere. The total limiting conditions in eight months is on and provide their the way to £10,000 families with supwhich is great, port; and groups have raised more money 13th Lights for through raffles and Learning, the Crickprize draws.” lade based charThe curry nights ity that invented a are not exclusive to solar power lighting group members. Ansystem which can ybody can go along be used in homes to enjoy a meal at and schools without the restaurants and electricity; know that some of 14th Optometr y what they are payGiving Sight which Nicki Styles, fundraising for ing will be helping a Naomi House on 7 October, supports projects good cause. all around the with her son Brandon To book a table world, providing vicall: sion care, local training and infraPlanet Bollywood on 435577 structure development; Bombay Lounge on 887799. 20th Bobbie’s School of Dance. Coming up at the Bombay Lounge Raising money for 16 dancers in October: invited to perform in Los Angeles 6th Friends of Oliver Tomkins in April 2009; School, Toothill, supporting school 27th SHOC: Stop Harming Our activities; Children Swindon. Promoting infor7th Naomi House Children’s Hos- mation about nutritional, medical, pice which is the children’s hospice environmental and psychological for Berkshire, Dorset, Hampshire, threats to children.

Curry nights at Planet Bollywood in October: 8th Mayor’s Charity Event for Swindon Youth Brass Band; 14th Swindon Dial a Ride which provides an easy to use taxi and bus hire service for people with disabilities; 21st Swindon Climate Action Network, campaigning for a better environment locally and globally. To book a charity curry night at either restaurant, see which dates are available at www.swindonlink. com and mail The Link: publisher@ swindonlink.com

Introducing The Circle

Swindon’s newest restaurant has opened at Wyvern Theatre offering simple, fine dining and pre-show meals, theatre tour lunches, murder mystery dinners, comedy curry nights, buffets, children’s parties, themed nights, and also catering for private functions, small weddings and conferences. Details of Autumn pre-show dining can be found at: www.wyverntheatre.org.uk/circlerestaurant

ALL YOU CAN EAT

Choose from over 100 dishes Sunday-Thursday (per person)

£16.00

Friday-Saturday (per person)

£19.00

Children under 10 half price

SUNDAY LUNCH* All you can eat (per person)

£12.50

Children under 5 eat free

TUESDAY LADIES NIGHT* All you can eat Ladies pay (per person)

£12.50

Offer applies to participating customers at Le Rendezvous only. Offer only valid on presentation of this advertisement at time of purchase. Offer excludes alcohol, hot & cold beverages and promotional events marked* opposite. No cash redemption value. Offer subject to availability, conditions may vary or change without notification. Offer expires close of business 31/10/2008

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Go online to view menu and restaurant facilities

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21-52 October 08.indd 28

19/9/08 12:58:37

Win a ticket to see the circus

All the thrills of Billy Smart’s Circus arrives in Swindon between 14 and 19 October and we have a great prize for 15 families. Each family ticket admits two adults and up to three children for any performance on any day for the show at Westcott Place Recreation Ground.

Swindon Wide

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By Sue ◆ Your local family hairdresser ◆ 25% discount for Seniors

Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

Stunning aerial thrills by US trapeze artists Bull Dancer Billy Smart’s is Britain’s largest circus and presents a thrilling all human production featuring 50 artists from around the world. There will be amazing edge of the seat trapeze performances, breathtaking gymnastics, extraordinary illusionists, remarkable jugglers and side splitting clowns. To enter the ticket draw send your name and address to The Link, 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX by 8 October.

Discount tickets to the circus

Join localkids.co.uk to qualify for discounts on tickets to the circus. See page 19 for details and the Billy Smart’s advertisement.

‘Itching to Sing’

A singing workshop for all with members of Swindon Scratch Choir Monday 13 October, 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Great Western Hotel (upstairs room), opposite the railway station. Learn a variety of harmony songs with Scratch Choir leaders ‘InVoice’. Absolutely no experience or music reading skills necessary; learn by listening and repetition Cost: £5 (£3 conc.) To book call 875184 or mail: info@swindonscratchchoir.co.uk All welcome. Simply turn up on the night if you forget to book.

LINKING PEOPLE TOGETHER @ WWW.SWINDONLINK.COM REGISTER YOUR EVENTS & ACTIVITIES AND ALSO COMMUNITY ORGANISATION DETAILS

21-52 October 08.indd 29

18/9/08 16:04:49

Swindon Wide

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the even bigger picture Make your mark on The People’s Map

In an exclusive article Tristram Cary, managing director of getmapping.com, invites Link readers to discover how to contribute to a revolutionary new concept in mapping

In 1999 the Millennium Mapping Company (now Getmapping plc) created the world’s first complete colour aerial photograph of Britain and made it available on the internet for everybody to see and use: www.getmapping.com This was a revolutionary idea and created a lot of excitement at the time, especially when the Queen invested in the company. The photographic survey was called the Millennium Map and it is being maintained on a regular basis - every 3 to 4 years. The Millennium Map started a flood of similar ventures and now photography is available for most of the world via websites like Google Earth and Microsoft’s Virtual Earth. Yet again an innovation from England has led to a market dominated by the USA. We have now turned our attention to the next phase of the project - The People’s Map - which is just being launched. The People’s Map allows anybody to draw on top of the Millennium Map aerial photographs to create conventional maps. You can draw lines to represent roads, rivers and railways; or you can draw shapes to represent things like buildings or tennis courts or ponds. You can also add points of interest to give details of places like churches, schools, shops, pubs and parks. Within an hour of adding new information the People’s Map is updated to reflect the changes. At first the changes are shown with a purple background as ‘unvalidated data.’ The People’s Map team will verify the changes to ensure that they are correct and once this has been done the alteration becomes part of the validated People’s Map. The benefit of the People’s Map is that all its users - members of the public and businesses

Drawing attention to Swindon art

As part of the Big Draw 2008, artwork created by students will be used to liven up two notice boards outside Swindon Museum & Art Gallery in Old Town. During the Drawing Attention event, BA students from Swindon College will work on drawings linked to the gallery’s modern art collection. The Big Draw project of the Campaign for Drawing aims to prove that drawing is an important tool for thought, creativity and enjoyment and is for everyone: not just artists. At North Swindon Library, Flux will be running a drop-in and draw day on Saturday 11 October, 10am to 3pm. Go along, pick up a pencil and see where it takes you. Adults can polish their life drawing skills with some of the best life models in Britain at Modelled Me UK in the Eastcott Studio, Old Town which will be open on Sunday 5 October, 9.45am to 4pm. All levels of skill welcome; the cost is £25; bring your own art materials. Call 07769 694994.

The changing face of North Swindon. Above, 1999. Below, the getmapping view in 2005 alike - can help to keep the map up to date. register as an editor (which takes only a few This means that the People’s Map has the minutes), and then start creating a map of your potential to be more accurate and relevant than local area? Over the coming months Swindon other more conventional maps. In return for the Link will be keeping you up to date on progsupport of its users, the People’s Map will be ress, so watch this space - and get mapping for free for all private non-commercial users, and yourself and your community the costs of the People’s Map for professional users will be much less than for conventional maps. This article is a world exclusive. It’s the first By Roger Ogle, Swindon Link publisher public announcement of the People’s Map (although the map has been available as a trial Tristram Cary contacted us after hearing of site for about a year). The plan is that Swindon the West and North Swindon maps which we Link and People’s Map will work closely togeth- publish, the latter being more up to date than er over the coming years to develop the project any other paper or electronic version available and make it a success. We want to excite Link when it first comes out. readers in the People’s Map and get them acSwindon is a blank space on The People’s tively involved as users and contributors. Map and we’d like to invite readers to transYou will see that Swindon is still ‘virgin terri- pose our maps onto the aerial photographs tory’ in the People’s Map. Have a look at Lon- at www.peoplesmap.com in the manner dedon or Brighton to see what can be achieved. scribed above. The People’s Map site has a discussion forum Let me know if you’re planning to participate and a blog, so feel free to take part. at: publisher@swindonlink.com and together So why not log on to www.peoplesmap.com, we can publicise this important project.

Get into the spirit of The People’s Map

www.campaignfordrawing.org www.fluxswindon.org.uk

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19/9/08 12:41:58

swindonlink.com • October 2008

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New astro pitches ready for use, but junior club put in jeopardy by price hike

A refurbished all weather sports pitch at Greendown School in Grange Park will be available for hire by community sports clubs from 1 October, but long time users Shaw Junior Football Club are upset by the hefty increase in rental rates. The rubber crumb surface replaces the worn out smooth sand pitch that was built soon after the school opened in 1987. The new pitch is suitable for football and hockey training, but not for competition hockey. Greendown director of sport Christian Dobbs said he is delighted with the £261,000 facility funded by Swindon Council. “It enhances our specialist sports college status tre- Christian Dobbs with players Harrison Batley, Aaron Stubbs, Braedon Cleverley Greendown headteacher Clive mendously. Pupils pursuing sports courses will have some of the best Zimmerman said prices on the old 54 BSS HOUSE pitch had been low historically training facilities around.” CHENEY MANOR However Karen Pricter, Shaw and the school governors had to SWINDON FC secretary, is upset that she was take a more realistic approach to informed only three weeks before the pitch was to be ready, that the club’s annual payment to the school would rise from £16,500 to £23,700. “We expected a two year tiered increase in hire charges and have raised player subscriptions. But, even with the discounts the school is offering us, we’re shocked. “Shaw FC is the largest user of the pitch, with 150 children training with us on four nights a week. We can’t cope with a 45 per cent increase at a stroke and we have cut the number of hours we can hire both the astro pitch and sports hall to manage financially. “The last thing we want to do is jeopardise our relationship with Greendown, after all most of our children attend the school. But all the volunteers involved with running the different teams are disillusioned.”

managing the facility. “We are offering a ‘loyalty discount’ to existing users and also a discount to clubs affiliated to national organisations such as the FA. This gives Shaw a discount of 10 per cent on our new prices bringing their fee down to £81 for the whole pitch for an hour which is significantly lower than comparable facilities elsewhere. “To avoid having an all weather surface that ends up like the old one, worn out and with no replacement fund available to the governors, we have to cover all our costs including the depreciation. Unfortunately this does mean a significant rise in price.” • Greendown has received a £144,000 government grant to improve drainage on its grass sports fields which have had a flooding problem since they were first built 22 years ago.

Ideal place to take time out

Laura Campbell from Shaw says it is her mission to convince people to make time to look after themselves. Her Thyme Treatment Rooms in Westlea offer a complete range of body treatments, complementary therapies and advice on stress management. A range of spa packages include Thyme for Mum and Executive Thyme for Men. As well as being a qualified beauty therapist, Laura is a stress management consultant and works with individuals and groups to find ways of coping with the stresses of Laura, right, and celebrity make-up artist 21st Century life. “Sometimes I get Arianne Poole at the opening of Tyme frustrated when people see what we Treatment Rooms in August do as pampering,” said Laura. “It’s not pampering, it’s maintenance. running her successful Hands of People don’t take enough time out Thyme business from home for the to do something for themselves. If last four years but needed to expand they can only have one treatment, to meet demand. Finding suitable I’d recommend a massage to relieve premises proved difficult but she is tension.” delighted with the location on the Opening the health and wellbe- Delta Business Park which provides ing spa was the culmination of two easy access and free parking. year’s work for Laura. She had been www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk

21-52 October 08.indd 31

Mob: 07884 268215

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19/9/08 12:43:08

32

swindonlink.com • October 2008 I.T.E.C.(dip), I.I.H.H.T Qualified member of the International Council of Holistic Therapists

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

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New group offers kids fitness

Twin Peaks members meet to plan for 09 breast cancer walks

Busy Fingers, which runs several pre-school groups in North Swindon, has expanded again and launched the Active Kids Club for 4 to10 year olds. It meets after school on Tuesdays at the Haydon Centre with the idea of getting kids active for an hour. “The aim is to improve fitness without children realising because they are having so much fun doing it,” said organiser Debbie Musa-Eiggie. To join call Debbie on 496900.

Twin-Peaks, Swindon’s Power walking group, is actively seeking new members to join them and will be meeting on Thursday 2 October, 7.30pm, in the Civic Offices Council Offices, Euclid Street to discuss taking part in the London Moonwalk and other Walk the Walk events around the country. “You don’t have to commit to tak- new walkers progress plan which ing part in the walks, there is always individuals can follow on their own, a need for marshalls at the events,” with a friend or with one of the said Twin Peaks coordinator Eunice several walking groups which offer Salmon. “We’re also starting to fitness and friendship in Swindon. plan for the second Swindon Mad For details mail: eunice.salmon@ March Hare and need organisers ntlworld.com • Walk the Walk Halloween Party on and fundraisers.” Twin Peaks has just launched a 31 October. See page 26

Super fit vet ready for half marathon

Westlea celebrate paralympics coming to London 2012

The September Link featured 75 year old Henry Fee from Middleleaze who will be running the Swindon half marathon on 12 October.

Power lifting paralympic bronze medallist Keith Bell visited Westlea Primary School on 17 September to mark the handover of the Paralympic Games from Beijing to London. Three hundred children heard Keith talk about competing in such a big competition and took part in an Olympics flag ceremony. After the assembly children who attend the physical disability unit at the school took part in boccia and kurling on a wooden floor with the help of Swindon Council leisure service officers Steve Connolly and Ben Humphries, cheering each other on with Sport England flags.

Arthur, taking part in the Mad March Hare through Lydiard Park

He’ll be joined by 72 year old Arthur Beltrami from The Prinnels. A former RAF serviceman, Arthur has lost count of the number of half marathons he’s run. He’s a regular in tough Body Attack fitness classes at Link Centre, showing youngsters over fifty years his A healing art which was historically favoured by Hawaiian royalty will be available to all through a unique course run by Aloha Therapies. junior how to keep up. Students will be introThe half marathon starts and finishes at Coate Water and supporters duced to LomiLomi massage which has existed for are needed to cheer on runners www.swindonhalfmarathon.co.uk centuries in the Hawaiian Islands. Originally the art was passed down through the generations Open: Mon 8-6, Tues-Fri 10-7, Sat 9-6 within chosen bloodlines Unit 108 Basepoint Business Centre but in the last few decades Rivermead Drive Swindon SN5 7EX there has been a renewed www.thebigadventurestore.com interest in the culture of The winners for triathlon, running & adventure racing! the islands and the massage has become known • Mizuno, Brooks, New Balance, Saucony, asics The setting is Swindon to learn LomiLomi around the world. The course will be taught by na- effective use of the body’s power • Isaac, Cube • Video gait analysis • Free parking tive Hawaiian massage therapist, while maintaining flow and grace Noelani, and involves thirty hours through rhythmic strokes. On of study over two long weekends. completion of the course they will Students will learn about the Ha- have the skills to give a basic full waiian beliefs regarding healing body LomiLomi treatment. The course starts on 31 October. and reverence for life before learning a routine that embodies power For more information or to register, call Raziya Sacranie on 637500 and grace. www.alohatherapies.com Students will be guided to make

Learn hands on treatment Hawaiian style

Tel: 01793 488882

21-52 October 08.indd 32

18/9/08 16:24:57

swindonlink.com • October 2008

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Monday 6.30pm & 8.15pm St John Church, Haydon Wick Sharon 527332 Tuesday 10am Toothill Community Centre Sharon 527332 Tuesday 6.30pm Abbey Meads School Paula 701442 Wednesday 6.30pm St Francis Primary School, Taw Hill Julie 875903 Wednesday 7pm Brook Field Primary School Sharon 527332 Wednesday 9.30am Gorse Hill Community Centre Sam 723416

21-52 October 08.indd 33

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33

FOOTCARE IN YOUR HOME Corns • Calluses Verruca • Foot massage Nail infections Thickened skin & nails Medical pedicure

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Call about our fabulous Day Spa Experience • Essensa Facial & Body Treatments • Chocolate Body Wraps • Thai Compress Massage • Balinese Massage • Massage & Reflexology • Hot Stone Therapy • Sports Massage Therapy • Bio-Sculpture Gel for Nails • Manicures & Pedicures and more . . .

Tel: 01793 433338 709 Delta Office Park, Welton Road, Swindon www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk

18/9/08 16:25:46

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swindonlink.com • October 2008

Janet’s Puppy Skool Have some fun teaching your dog good manners and behaviour at one of our friendly classes ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Playskool for puppies Adult beginners/improvers Senior Skool/advanced Classes One to one advice & training Fun Agility Workshops

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for September & October course details Janet Garrett

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Tel: 01793 727158 Janet.garrett@virgin.net

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

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

Ring Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633 www.hairofthedoggroomers.co.uk 74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon

21-52 October 08.indd 34

Kennel Club awards for Keta

Keta, a seven month old puppy from Old Shaw Lane, wowed judges of the Kennel Club Good Citizen Award, despite health problems. She picked up both bronze and day, considering her ailments which silver awards on the same day after made her very tired,” said Pat, who passing a range of tests to demon- herself is being treated for a serious strate that she is a well mannered, medical condition. “She passed her sociable dog. Keta’s owner, Pat tests with flying colours but was too Oborn, runs the Spire dog training tired to go for the gold.” Pat suffers from cerebral vascuschool and endorses the Kennel Club scheme which aims to encour- litis which affects the blood vessels in the brain, affecting speech and age responsible dog ownership. She bought Keta for breeding but walking. Pat says that both Keta and has discovered that she is a carrier her other bitch, Anya, understand of Juvenile Renal Dysplasia which when she is feeling ill and are a could shorten her life. She also has great help to her. “The dogs are a massive help; if I problems absorbing food which walk with one either side of me they leads to sore skin and fatigue. “She did very well to pass on the keep me straight. Anya is trained so I can put my hand on her back to push me upright.” Pat will be entering Keta for her gold award early next year.

Free neutering offer Swindon Branch of Cats Protection is offering free neutering in October for male and female cats over 5 months old to people on means tested benefits. For par ticipating vets, see www.swindon.cats.org.uk or call 644536.

Central American link strengthened

Swindon Ocotal Link welcomed Dr Carlos Norori from Ocotal, Swindon’s twin town in Nicaragua, during September.

SOL chair Bruce Clarke and Dr Norori

SOL has had close links with Ocotal for 19 years and there are visits between the towns every year. Dr Norori met members of local Rotary Clubs and hopes that they will link with Ocotal Rotary. He visited Penhill Lunch Club and is pleased members decided to link with a SOL supported old people’s home in his town. “I have found Swindon people very friendly and caring,” he said. • See details of SOL Quiz Night and Chilli Supper on page 26. www.swindonocotal-link.org.uk

Six legged race planned for Lydiard

CaniX, the sport where dogs and their owners run together over a cross country course returns to Lydiard Park on 30 November. CaniX appeals to all ages and National co-ordinator, Eileen abilities and can range from a gentle Cook, right, said interest in the sport jog in the park to international comhas steadily grown in the town since petition. In October, a UK team will the first race three years ago. “We take part in the European champihave a lot of runners in Swindon, onship in the Czech Republic and said Eileen. “People who entered includes runner James Thie from the first race have stayed with it. Swindon who narrowly missed a Normally, by the time people cross place at this year’s Olympics. the finish line, they’re hooked.” Eileen said that CaniX could be She said that running through the sport for all those inspired by forest is ideal as dogs tend to want watching events at Beijing. “A lot to take the shortest route, meanof people say they’ve always hoped ing that crossing an open field is to win something and this could be more challenging than keeping to their chance.” a woodland track. Lydiard event details and applicaThe main race covers 5km but 15 are welcome to try the ‘have a go’ tion forms from: www.canix.co.uk beginners and children aged 10 to route which is just 2.5km.

19/9/08 16:06:18

swindonlink.com • October 2008

Marching feat for air cadet

Worldwide links for Bradon Forest

Work at Bradon Forest School to bring a global dimension to learning has been recognised with an award by the British Council, making it a fully accredited International School. This summer, humanities teacher Rachel Crerar, taught English at the BernardoTambohuasco School in the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru. The trip was organised with Teaching and Projects Abroad, who are working with the Peruvian Education Ministry on an updated English curriculum. Her time was spent teaching, strengthening links and doing community work such as teacher training and outside projects to creditation scheme for curriculum help the local community. based work in schools. “Gaining Teachers Grenville Heathcote this award is only the beginning of and Steve Bond, above, visited North our forays into international experiLegon School in Ghana in April to ence for our staff and students,” said deliver a photocopier bought with project coordinator Julie Hunter. “In money raised by pupils. Bradon October Dutch teachers will visit to Forest also donated four laptops, work with our maths and humanidoubling the number available to ties teams to share their approach pupils at the school. to education. The International School Award, “Web-conferencing and email funded by the Department for Chil- projects with Ghana and Germany dren, Schools and Families is an ac- are in our plans for 2009.”

Minister learns of South Africa link

Jim Knight MP, Minister of State for Schools and Learning, met Greendown teachers and pupils on 11 September to hear about the close connection the school has built with Moriteng Wa Thutu, South Africa over the last five years. He said he was very impressed with the work through visits between pupils and staff and said the opportunities for young people to learn of other cultures and break down stereotypes were fantastic. Jim Knight, front, with international coordinator Cristina Bennett, left, headteacher Clive Zimmerman and South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove with Greendown’s Fair Trade crew

ZIGNIG Wholesale

Getting up at 3am to walk 25 miles four days in a row wouldn’t be every teenager’s idea of fun but Greendown student, Alex Cole, 14, said it was one of the best experiences of his life. with camp beds. There cucumber and apples just to keep Fourteen year old was a 3am alarm call so you going.” Alex was taking part in His efforts raised around £600 that Alex was ready to the Nijmegen marches start walking at 5am. which will be put towards the cost in Holland with felHe completed each of a new mini bus for the squadron. low cadets from 1244 day’s march in around “I’m very grateful to everyone who Squadron Air Training 8 hours and said that sponsored me. I had a great time in Cadets. The largest support from crowds Nijmegen; I wanted to go home but walking event in the along the way created a I wanted to stay for a bit longer as world, it attracts over well because we had all made good great atmosphere. 40,000 entrants each “ O n t h e t o w n ’ s friends with other people there and year and is a demandstreets, young chil- we all had a good laugh. It was one ing test of endurance. dren were standing on of the best weeks in my life and I Conditions were far the sides of the route will always remember it.” from luxurious: after a twelve hour coach journey, home holding out bowls or trays of for the week was a sports hall filled sweets, biscuits, liquorish, mints,

35

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21-52 October 08.indd 35

19/9/08 12:36:07

36

swindonlink.com • October 2008

Intel ends summer hols with fun

Toothill Junior Youth Club ended the summer with a sports day at the end of August with the help of volunteers from the Swindon office of Intel Europe who were contributing to the company’s fortieth anniversary commitment to help communities around the world.

Forest festival marks a decade

The tenth forest festival organised by the Great Western Community Forest team based at Swindon Council took place at the end of August. Denesha Gooden from Oakhurst with forest team members Heather Lilley, Jonathan Wilshaw, Julie Everson and Simon Pitman

Youngsters who received certificates from the Mayor and Intel staff

The team of ten recent graduates and interns organised football, athletics and basketball for over forty children aged 5 to 14 years. “It’s great to get out of the office and away from the computers for a day,” said Chris Smith of Intel. “The children were really enthusiastic and had a great time.”

Copse volunteers invite you to 20th anniversary picnic in the woods

A group of volunteers who have managed Peatmoor Copse on behalf of Swindon Council since September 1978 is holding a demonstration day for anybody who would like to learn how to coppice wood and discover traditional woodland management techniques. Group members will be in the explore the copse, but the site is not copse on Saturday 4 October, suitable for wheelchairs. There are 2.30pm to 4.30pm, to talk to visitors no toilets and it can be quite muddy. Places on offer The youth club meets at Toothill about why the area close to Peat- Wear boots and old clothes if you Farm social centre, Bodiam Drive. moor Lagoon was left undeveloped plan to take part in activities. The copse is to the west of the New members are welcome if when West Swindon was being parents attend on the first visit to built, involve them in coppicing lagoon, adjacent to Whitefield complete a registration form on trees and show how cut wood is Crescent, Peatmoor. Call Roger Ogle on 608840 or Tuesdays 6.30pm to 8.30pm for 10 used for fencing. mail: roger_ogle@mac.com for Accompanied children are welto 15 year olds and Fridays 7pm to come to join in with activities and directions. 9pm for 5 to 10s.

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21-52 October 08.indd 36

The Mayor Steve Wakefield launching Peatmoor Glades with Tracy Gieran, Wiltshire Probation Service unpaid work project co-ordintaor

The Mayor Steve Wakefield is supporting the initiative as his Community Payback Mayoral Project. With assistance from offenders on probation, trees are to be cut back and hedges laid, nettles removed and the ground prepared to plant

wildflowers to encourage a better environment for butterflies and bumble bees which are threatened nationwide. Local schools are being recruited to grow wild flowers from seeds and will visit to plant them in the spring.

Working in Bluebell Copse

Volunteers are need to help in the copse on Sunday 19 October, 10am to 12.30pm to continue clearance of the woodland to the plan agreed between Haydon Wick Parish Council, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and residents last year, lay wood chips on informal paths through the area and check on bird and bat boxes. Meet at the Morrison’s underpass or call the parish council office on 722446 for details.

19/9/08 16:12:47

swindonlink.com • October 2008

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37

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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

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21-52 October 08.indd 37

18/9/08 16:39:01

38

swindonlink.com • October 2008

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Tadpole Lane markings warn drivers to cut speed

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Tel: 01793 635478 0770 1064640

24 HRS

Safety campaigners were pleased to see work finally begin on road markings at the entrance to Brimble Hill and Uplands Special Schools at the beginning of term. The junction on Tadpole Lane has the signs already there,” said Bob been marked with red road surfac- Sanders, Swindon Council’s Traffic ing, with yellow painted rumble Manager. “We’ll be keeping an eye strips and roadside warning signs on the site if more are needed.” Campaigning teacher Lorna on either side. A lack of power supply has prevented installation Breslin said, “the safety signage and of vehicle activated warning signs road surfaces will warn drivers of the two schools off this fast straight but these may come later. “We’re hoping the extra markings road. But I’m going to be asking for will attract people’s attention to solar powered VAS signs.”

MOBILE CAR REPAIRS

GARY VARDY Motorcycle Repairs Servicing & Tuning

• • • • • • • •

30 years experience Factory trained Honda • Suzuki Kawasaki • Yamaha

Call (01793) 481008 Mob: 07787 183719

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

SLATER’S MOBILE SERVICES

Unit 91, Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Estate, Swindon

Tel: 079999 44262

www.chipsaway-sven.co.uk

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Engine diagnostics ★ Welding ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 30 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

Brimble Hill headteacher Bob Walker reviewing the safety measures with Uplands teacher Lorna Breslin

Paintwork repairs at home

Sven Giesbers, of Chips Away, has noticed an increase in the number of customers giving their car a makeover rather than replacing it. For those choosing to keep their car for longer, for financial or environmental reasons, his mobile service is a simple, hassle free way to remove the evidence of minor scrapes and scratches to the paintwork. Using each car’s unique paint code, Sven, right, is able to match exactly the colour to the manufac- said Sven. “My repairs are on a par turer’s paint. Chips Away recently with a body shop but can cost up introduced a new, eco-friendly to 50 per cent less.” Sven has been running the Chips paint system to reduce the impact Away franchise in Swindon and to the environment. The precise colour match means surrounding villages for the past that only the damaged area is four years. He has seen other repair painted, saving time and money: businesses come and go and puts work is carried out at the customer’s his success down to the Chips Away support to franchisees and their onhome in a matter of hours. “Going to a body shop for repairs going research and development. For a quote call Sven on 881883. will cost a lot more and usually www.chipsaway-sven.co.uk means losing the car for a few days,”

FIAT & ALFA ROMEO

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 www.pcautocare.co.uk

Unit 1, Bagbury Park, Lydiard Millicent

21-52 October 08.indd 38

✶ 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)

18/9/08 16:40:39

swindonlink.com • October 2008

THE COMPLETE CURTAIN SERVICE

Painter & Decorator

• Free estimating, design and advice • Home visits by appointment • Make-up and fitting service

Also tiling, coving, dado rails. All work approved & guaranteed

And BLINDs of all kinds •Wooden •Venetian •New linen •Roman •Verticals •Roller •New Eastern materials

HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE

Trevor Wyse

Curtains to satisfy every requirement

Free parking outside the showroom at 252 Cricklade Road

Wallpaper specialist For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203 or 01793 723023 ‘my experience your pleasure’

Call Tracey or Amanda on 01793 611051 or sales@completecurtainservice.co.uk

www.completecurtainservice.co.uk

39

• Kitchen/bathroom upgrades • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps • Flat pack furniture • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham

Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

KUDOS FENCING Bespoke Gates

• Full Range of Fencing • Repairs/Refurbishment • All Pressure Treated Timber • Cash and Carry Supply Service • Family Business Since 1983 • Help and Advice on all Fencing Matters

www.kudosfencing.com Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon

Strong Durable Fencing

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

Special Offer: October Only ‘Free Disposal of Old Fence’ Free Estimate on

• Carpets • Wood • Laminate • Vinyl • Underlay • Accessories

01793 480777 or 07834 685871

01793 855800

6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB

10% off

On Production of This Advertisment Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

Why not visit our comprehensive display area offering you inspiration?

B L U E P R I N T G A R D E N D E S I G N All types of garden work undertaken from maintenance to full landscaping. Modern & traditional garden design including: Fencing & Decking Qualified Tree Surgeon Shed, Summerhouse & Garden Room Construction Garden Clearance Local Family Business

Contact us now for a free quotation

Tel: 07788 582843 Email: blueprintdesign@ntlworld.com

21-52 October 08.indd 39

AWBS. FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING & LANDSCAPING MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS l l l l l

GATES DECKING FENCING TURFING GRAVELS

l l l l l

WALLING RAILINGS PATIOS & PAVING WATER FEATURES BRICKS & BLOCKS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH FREE LOCAL DELIVERY INCLUDING SUNDAYS AWBS at the Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon SN2 2QJ Telephone: 01793 484455 Fax: 01793 484499 www.awbsltd.com

18/9/08 18:14:37

40

MILESTONE Building Services

Extensions • Conservatories Garage & Loft conversions Alterations • Renovations Kitchens • Bathrooms Patios & decking • Garden walls No job too big or small! 18 years experience • References available

Call Neil Tanner for a FREE competitive quote

J’s Electrical ✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing

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

0800 1357063 / 07967 155502

No job too small • Free estimates

Mail: info@benchmark-construction.co.uk www.benchmark-construction.co.uk

Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

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

ALL SEASONS 24 HR PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with

TileSure

Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed

Qualified tradesman, 28 years experience

Acorn

Home Improvements & Property Maintenance • All electrical work • Part P registered • Carpentry & furniture assembly • Fitted kitchens • Laminate flooring • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering • Decorating Free no obligation written quotes Fully insured, professional & reliable

Tel: 01793 725626 Mobile: 0751 3146306

21-52 October 08.indd 40

Mature professional tradespeople will carry out all jobs, big or small • Kitchen & bathroom installations • Fitted wardrobes • Painting & decorating • Decking • Real wood & laminate flooring • Carpentry / Plumbing / Electrical Tiling / Building work undertaken Call for free no obligation quotes All work guaranteed

Call 07964 096007

HG P R O P E RT Y MAINTENANCE

•PLASTERING •DECORATING •COVING •KITCHEN FITTING •TILING •FASCIAS/GUTTERING •PATIOS •FENCING . . . and much more! NO JOB TOO SMALL CALL ANDY FOR A FREE QUOTATION

07769 707535 01793 323242

adept

Repairs & Maintenance Electrical (inc. insp & test) Plumbing Domestic/Commercial Design, installations & repairs Fully insured Guaranteed work

Mobile: 07791 905 314 Tel: 01793 491 544 adeptrm@hotmail.com Reliable & Reasonable

• • • • • • • •

DOMESTIC PLUMBING LEAKS & BURST PIPES TAP WASHERS & BALL VALVES IMMERSIONS & HOT WATER CYLINDERS RADIATORS REPLACED TAPS, SINKS & TOILETS FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS WALL & FLOOR TILING

Tel: 01793 524 200 Mobile: 07810 823 966 gbplumbing@hotmail.co.uk

PHONE 4 PHIL

GREY SKILLS

FOR ALL YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENTS A local reliable & friendly service

GB

PLUMBING SERVICES

Building/Groundworks & Hard Lanscaping Extensions, Garage & Loft Conversions Driveways & Patios All building work undertaken All work guaranteed, FREE quote and advice

Mob: 07956 301957 Tel: 01793 348597

QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC. Local, reliable & competitive prices

HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241

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

VINE UK LTD Plumbing, central heating, powerflushing

All plumbing, central heating and drainage Boiler servicing, repairs and replacements Natural Gas, LPG and Oil Approved Full Kitchens and Bathrooms Electrical and Gas Safety Testing Solar Heating Building and maintenance Corgi and Part P Registered

Lee Avery (01793) 766999 or 07773 344715

18/9/08 17:44:13

41

❖ Gas and LPG ❖ 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 countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk

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

You buy, I fit! FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS Extensions/Rewires New Installations Testing and Inspection Security Lighting Showers & Fuseboxes Free Quotes 24 hour call out facility

01793 878609 07885 543294

L.J. TILING

COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING SERVICES

Your kitchen fitted to a high standard

WORKTOPS ONLY FITTING SERVICE

Specialist in all aspects of the trade • Walls & floors • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Conservatories Call Leon for a free, no obligation quote on: 01793 524147 or 07919 255673

General Building Services

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

Tel: 01793 542654 Mob: 07790 283186

ABLE PROPERTY SERVICES (WILTSHIRE) LIMITED

All Electrical Work • Carpentry Kitchen Fitting • Plumbing Bathroom Fitting • General Building Tiling • Painting Free no obligation advice/estimates No job too big or small Clean and reliable service, fully insured

Tel: 0800 0856022

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS • Kitchen/Bathroom Installations • Painting & Decorating • Plumbing • Tiling • Minor Electrical • Carpentry • Garden landscaping/Maintenance • Patios & Decking

Plus wall tiling and other carpentry work around the home 15 years experience For a friendly, no obligation chat call Bill of WJ Installations on 07774 555864

Tel: 01793 721677 Mobile 07919415849

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN?

Professional, experienced tiler

PB Plastering & Bricklaying

• • • •

Flat pack or rigid

For all electrical work in your home, garden and workplace

Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance NO JOB TOO SMALL

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Kitchen, bathroom & shower circuits House rewires & extensions Garden lights & sockets, pond pumps Wiring for log cabins, garages, sheds Electrical inspection & testing Portable appliance testing Part P registered

Call James Nicholls

For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

07974 711962 01793 812303 AMALIA ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

doctor glass

Complete installations to dripping taps

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

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

Bathrooms

& Kitchens

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

G.P. Building Specialist Ltd Established for 22 years Specialist in loft and garage conversions & building extensions All types of maintenance and general building work Telephone: Mobile:

01793 435876 0782 444 2143 0777 574 8682

Email: roger@aps-ltd.com www.aps-ltd.com

21-52 October 08.indd 41

18/9/08 17:44:39

42

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS

RS

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of

FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

Wall & Floor Tiling

❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

Approved Plumber

ain te

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

r&

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

De cor ato r

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

EP

ID PR

For a free estimate Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361 www.rsbathrooms.com

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

Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • 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

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

PLASTERING

PLASTERING

KTL

Brian Jones Plastering Services

Plastering

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

Oct 08 Repair & Improv.indd 42

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

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

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

BUILDING SERVICES

BUILDING SERVICES

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Paul Rhind

    

Extensions Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving

For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

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

DOUBLE GLAZING

DECORATOR Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating • High quality experienced workmanship • All work undertaken • A friendly reliable service with references available • Full Public Liability Insurance cover

For free estimate call Paul Comer 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

HEATING & PLUMBING

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

PLUMBING

SERVICES Plumbing & Heating Prompt & Efficient Service Fixed Quotations No Call Out Charge Reg: 203455

Call Nick on: 07875 088864

PLUMBING

From an annoying drip to a full bathroom re-fit No call out charge Free quotations Professional & friendly service

07747 752190 01793 529192

19/9/08 13:15:37

43

CARPENTRY

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

Free estimates Jamie Scanlon 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

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

Please call 07769 883717

HOME MAINTENANCE

CARPENTRY

J&R Carpentry Services

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

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

Oct 08 Repair & Improv.indd 43

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

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN Arc Electrical Services Ltd 01793 872054 0770 480 1959

Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307

FLOORING

• 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

HANDYMAN

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

N I CF

arcelectrics@aol.com

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

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 APPROVED

30 years experienced tradesman

ROOFING

TILING

GILES BROS

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

A CHANGE OF COLOUR

PAINTING AND DECORATING

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

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

DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

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

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

❇❇❇

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

JOBS NEED DOING AROUND THE HOUSE? Most jobs undertaken No job too small Friendly, reliable and honest service provided Insured and guaranteed work Free estimates Please call Paul to arrange an estimate or 01793 335269 for any 07917 824187 enquiries

MAINTENANCE

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

TILING

TileSure

CERAMIC TILING

Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with

ALL SEASONS 24 HR

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES QUALITY FINISH

Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

19/9/08 13:15:58

44

ACCOUNTANCY Lynette White MAAT

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

get ready for digital

Accountancy Services

FIFTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE OF: Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT returns Payroll - CIS Scheme Final Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625 Email: lynettewhite48@btinternet.com

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CALL US NOW

Tel: 01793 610008

TV! We bring you better

www.dykebrading.co.uk

BOOK-KEEPING

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEARANCE

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

www.transcable.co.uk

CHIROPRACTOR

FREE SPINAL HEALTH CHECK s NECK PAIN s "!#+ 0!). s (%!$!#(%3 s 30/243 ).*529 s #!2 !##)$%.4

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

01793 602454

#HIROPRACTIC 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 !ND WE CAN HELP YOUNG AND OLD ALIKE

54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon

COMPUTER SUPPORT Com Master’s PC Repairs

Why go anywhere else? When we’ll come to you.....

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

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

Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

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

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

21-52 October 08.indd 44

#LARE $UNCAN (AWES "3C (ONS -3C $#

-EMBER OF THE "RITISH #HIROPRACTIC !SSOCIATION #OLLEGE OF #HIROPRACTORS 2EGISTERED WITH '##

www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk

MINI BUS HIRE

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!

Tel: 01793 703899

OVEN CLEANING

REMOVALS Single items to full house removals

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

Transcable Aerials 0800 3285016

email: enquiries@dykebrading.co.uk

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

OVEN CLEANING

any genuine quote by 5%

Digital aerials and free view boxes supplied for DIY and fitted Same day service on calls before 1pm Fully trained engineers 15% discount for Senior Citizens Telephone extensions from £25

Small Business Specialists

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

CLEANING

Free quotes. We will beat

Chartered Certified Accountants

Hourly rates 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

REMOVALS

White Van Man Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £20

Great prices on house removals

Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed Fully insured Call for a free quote

Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

18/9/08 18:11:24

45

AERIAL SERVICES

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CHRIS PAYNE

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS - - - -

'UARANTEED REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES OF DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points

No call out charge

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

3AME DAY NEXT DAY SERVICE

CARPET CLEANING

CLEANING

Tel: 01793 469300

THE CLEANING & IRONING SERVICE

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

House cleans from ÂŁ16 per house. Weekly, fortnightly or monthly cleans. One-off Spring cleans

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

Ironing ÂŁ16 per basket, collected and returned the next day

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

Call 01793 875665 07780625244

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

GARAGE DOORS 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

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

10% discount with this advert

VHS TO DVD Transfer VHS to DVD PLUS ALL 4APES 3LIDES s MM MM #INElLM s &RAME BY &RAME "ROADCAST STANDARD s !LL #AMCORDER FORMATS $6 (I ETC s 4RANSFER YOUR FAMILY S HERITAGE ONTO $6$ s 0HOTOS 3LIDES ONTO #$ OR $6$ s /BSOLETE FORMATS I E "ETAMAX 6IDEO ,ASERDISC ETC s $ISCOUNTS FOR LARGE COLLECTIONS

WINDOW CLEANING FED UP WITH DIRTY WINDOWS?

FOR A REGULAR & RELIABLE WINDOW CLEANING SERVICE CALL ALAN ON

0800 0304595

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

21-52 October 08.indd 45

www.aandlcleaningservices.co.uk

Family fun day for all as Abbey Meads church comes of age

Christ the Servant Church is holding a family fun day on 4 October, 11am to 3pm, as part of a weekend of celebration and thanksgiving. Since its foundation twelve years ago, the church has received ďŹ nancial support from sponsor churches in the form of grants. These will come to an end in October and the church will be self supporting, relying on money from collections, donations and income from the various groups that use the building. “The weekend will be to have fun and celebrate, and to say thanks to God for the grants. It’s really a coming of age for the church,â€? said Ruth Harris who is helping to organise the fun day. There will be a range of activities including a bouncy castle, face painting, a nearly new stall, a Traidcraft stall and a barbecue. “Everyone is welcome, especially people who have had services at the church, children who have come to the holiday clubs or groups like brownies and guides,â€? said Ruth. A special service of celebration and thanksgiving will be held on Sunday 5 October. www.christtheservant.org.uk

An experience to strengthen faith Four young people from St Peter’s Catholic Church, Eastleaze attended July’s World Youth Day in Australia and Matt and Shaun Mochan, Lucy Boyles and Annabel Schwenk would like to say a big thank you to all who helped make it possible. The pilgrimage started with a gruelling 23 hour journey to Melbourne where we were to spend our ďŹ rst week. We arrived at the parish of St Simon the Apostle, Rowville and were allocated our host families for the following week. The parish had arranged a variety of activities for us including a display by aboriginal dancers and a trip on the local steam train. During our stay we also took Matt and Shaun Mochan with new found part in several discussions and friends in Australia reections about our personal faith for us was one of the most poignant and cultural identity. We helped in parts of the two weeks. The pilgrimage concluded with a the community with tasks such as visiting the local old people’s home, walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge weeding gardens and knitting blan- to Randwick Racecourse where we kets for Russian orphans. The week were to spend the night out under concluded with a mass with all the the stars. His Holiness celebrated parishioners and a disco arranged a candlelit vigil on the Saturday evening and returned on Sunday, by the youth of the parish. The next stage of the pilgrimage below, to lead the ďŹ nal mass with was a twelve hour coach journey be- some 400,000 pilgrims. To participate in a mass of this fore arriving at luxury apartments in the centre of Sydney. Cardinal size was an unforgettable experiGeorge Pell celebrated the commis- ence and the enthusiasm that all the sioning mass the next morning. This young people have for their faith is was the ďŹ rst time we had a glimpse encouraging. of the vast number of people who had travelled from all over the world to celebrate this occasion with us. We spent the next three mornings at Catechesis where bishops from America, The Philippines and New Zealand talked to us about the theme of world youth day which was The Holy Spirit. The afternoons were ďŹ lled with the papal arrival on a boat, various talks, lectures and concerts and the dramatic Stations of the Cross which was acted out at various sites around Sydney Harbour and

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swindonlink.com • October 2008

Gateway - new name on the church door

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

Swindon Family Church, which began almost 16 years ago with just a handful of people meeting in a hired room in the Link Centre, is changing its name to – Gateway Church Swindon. Church leader Mark Thornett, below, explains. The new name for the church, himself as The Gate. The new name was made which moved into its own premises in Westlea two years ago and official on 21 September, when now regularly has over 200 people the church held a celebration attending, is to reflect what they service which was followed by believe God has said to them a hog roast and desserts from Sunday services are at about the vision and direction of around the world. 10am & 6.30pm Increasingly a wonderful the church. For further information you can A gateway is a place of transition, variety of people are coming either ring (01793) 873050; of discovery and hope. It is often to us from all sorts of different e-mail: office@freshbrook.org a meeting place, a sending place, places. We already have South or visit: www.freshbook.org as well as a receiving place, and Africans, Germans, French, of course Jesus Christ described Zimbabweans, Nigerians, In“the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23) dians and Chinese as well as people from the Caribbean in our congregation, and in time we hope there will be others. With the name Swindon Family Church, we have once Join us in worship on Sunday mornings or twice been asked if the church is just for families, or if Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am anyone can come. A gateway St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am can be used by anyone, and we All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am want to display God’s passion Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am for all people by giving as good a people in the world. welcome as we can to people of all Toothill Church: 10.30am On its own, a change of name ages, cultures and backgrounds. doesn’t make a whole lot of differFor details of these and our other services In its 16 year history the church ence. But we are really excited about call the Partnership Office on 874221 has also been involved in send- the future. If we follow what God Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com ing and supporting individuals tells us, we believe we will continue www.wswinlyd.org.uk and teams to such places as East to grow both as individuals and as a Africa, Southern Africa and South community of people. Together we Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church America, as well as other parts of will form a gateway of discovery the world. and hope where people are welMost recently a member of the comed, mobilized and sent out. On Thames Avenue congregation has been spending Details on the church’s activities extended periods of time in Zim- can be found at: www.gatewaynext door to babwe, helping to develop health, churchswindon.org.uk Morrisons education and farming projects See the advertisement below among some of the most economi- left or call the Church Office on Contact: cally challenged and marginalised 526130. 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

Alpha

Midwe ek Babies & Toddle rs Group (Wed) Alpha Courses in Midwe ek Small Groups n tow the oss acr s me Ho

Join us, Sundays from 10:30am at the Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea, for a time of family worship & bible teaching

21-52 October 08.indd 46

Kids Church & Ignite

Don’t let the kids get bored in half term The Dino Detectives holiday club run by North Swindon Baptist Church will offer exciting free activities such as crafts, games, puppets, Bible stories and competitions. The club for children aged 5 to 11 years will meet between 27 and 31 October, from 10am to 12.15pm, and Friday 31 October from 7pm to 8pm, at Abbey Meads Primary School. Places are limited and can be booked by calling Jackie Mitchell on 341743.

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

11-18’s Youth Work

call the church For more information 130 or visit 526 93 017 office on ww w.gatewaychurchsw

indon.org.uk

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Slip down to Link Centre and give it a go!

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Disco Sessions Kids/Family Sessions Skating Courses Beginner Sessions Ice Dance Instruction Ice Hockey Teams Figure Skating Club Skate Hire

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