September 2005 Swindon Link

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No. 280 September 2005 • Circulation 25.000 1

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COME TO OUR OPEN DAY on 7 & 8 October to discuss affordable private education for 4 year olds and upwards at Meadowpark

the positive newsforce in Swindoi and the swindon wide what's on guide

What's your view of Swindon?

Swindon p ri de and anger. What's your opinion? See page 4 There's always a warm welcome from MrAli and his staff at Purton's hidden treasure

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Link teams up with Swindon Civic Trust to create visual guide site for the town. Find out how you can put your camera to good use on page 3

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The Link Magazine • September 2005

Free new patient consultation * Free Chirocheck always available IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: =

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Stay of execution for West pharmacy Cooper Chemist at the West Swindon Centre did not close at the end of August as reported last month.

After the The Link went to press article. "We've had dozens and the manager Jean Wood heard that dozens of people 'phoning us and • • property agents for Asda Walmart coming in to say how sorry they had informed Cooper owner are that we are being closed down. _A r McParland Pharmacies that the There's a sadness that an important local service is disappearing." shop can stay until October.

The shop is likely to close in the Asda have bought the lease on the Cooper shop unit a year before first week of October to allow staff it is due to run out in order to to transfer operations toAshington combine it with the adjacent Way Pharmacy opposite the shopClinton Cards unit to create a new ping centre.

George clothing shop outside the Rig/it, long serving Cooper staff, Jean Wood and her daughter Joanne Lunt _ main Asda store.

Jean said there had been tremendous response to the August Link

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Enjoying their llnlch, front left, Vita l Konlchanka, Valia Gardsueva, Nastia Chirtik,

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A group of children from Belorussia visiting Swindon for the mer holidays enjoyed traditional British fish and chips on 10 August thanks to The Trawlerman at West Swindon Centre.

The takeaway has enterr1SJ' tam ed groups of ten to 14 sear olds brought to the town by the Gloucester 'a w r based Chernobyl Children's Project for the last eight years.

The ten youngsters with English hosts spent the s ^' morning ice skating and went on to the Oasis fora

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The Link Magazine • September 2005 3

Web site to get you involved in new Swindon viewpoints

f22photography Freelance photography services Weddings & portraits Photo restoration and repair Scanning & printing from negative, slide or print Call Trevor on:

Swindon has some interesting, ground breaking buildings, like the new environment friendly National Trust headquarters at Churchward. It has some truly awful boxes like the Western Gate development at Hillmead. There are some fascinating features such as the bandstand in Old Town, as well as grubby corners like the line up of dumpsters on show at Holbrook Way (off Fleet Street), see below.

In a new project to be launched in mid-September by the Swindon Civic Trust and sponsored by The Link, we are creating a visual record of the town and we want your help to look at the town in a different way. We need you to get out there with your digital and phone cameras to record the best and the worst of Swindon and everything in between - from whole buildings to the fine detail to be found on them, from every angle.

Civic Trust chairman John Monniott said, "the town has a fascinating history and a tremendous future, but a record of decisions being made from the top down. The Trust is bringing in fl uence to bear on how these decisions are made and the web site project is a new way for local people to both understand our built environment and also contribute

to improvements.

"The site is not only about build- The place to look is: ings. We also want to feature festi- Photo.swindoncivic.org.uk/gallery The site should be ready to upload vals and community events." images by the end of September.

The Link has started the site off by contributing around 200 im- Register your interest by mailing: ages from the archives. Publisher editor@swindonlink.com Roger Ogle said, "I've been taking pictures for over 20 years, mainly of people and groups, and also recording buildings and events.

01793 870848 07900 267737 e: imaging@f22photography.biz

Civic Trust AGM on 15 September. See page 6

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/:V lamp at Churchward BIKE "I've barely scratched the surface; there are dozens of photographers around Swindon who can contribute to this project.

"We also want to recruit the massive number of people who have bought digital cameras over the last few years. And with the quality of images captured on mobile phones improving every few months, this is a fantastic opportunity to exploit your talent and the potential of the kit you've bought."

So, here's your chance get out there and focus on Swindon like you've never done before.

Capture the wonders of science Science Museum Wroughton

Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September, 10am - 4.30pm For its first photography competition - called Snapshots of Science the museum is opening three of its hangars free to the public. They are full of fascinating and innovative objects from the worlds of aviation, road transport and agriculture, including aircraft, bicycles, categories: adult black and white, adult colour, and, for under-15s, cars, buses and tractors.

Whether it's gleaming paint- in colour or black and white.

Registration takes place on the work, polished brass, futuristic shapes or sheer size, there is sure photo open days. Just turn up.

The images will be judged twice: to be winning images for the competition which is divided into three once by a group of professionals and separately by the public on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 November when the best entries will be displayed in the museum's gallery.

The prizes are books and other publications from the Science Museum store.

• Snapshots - see Talks: page 31

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The Link Magazine • September 200

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Angry and proud.

Do they go together in Swindon?

The Swindon Advertiser launched their Swindon and proud of it campaign in July in response to the ill considered criticism of our town by a nondescript style guru. Alan Hayward asks if the right questions are being asked.

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Swindon is constantly derided • proposals being considered in by many who know nothing about North Wilts to build more houses the place, and also by others who on Swindon's borders; have moved away (including sev- • and currently - the most anger eral celebrities). In the late 1990s inducing of them all – concreting Swindon Council launched an ill over the fields next to Coate Water judged 'Proud to be Swindon' cam- Country Park for yet more houses, yet another business park and a paign which quickly faded.

1 like Swindon a lot. I love its misplaced university campus.

There are campaigns running on rural location, am interested in its history, protective of its assets and many of these issues, all seeking to reclined in its laid-back attitude. I make an impact on the public conam glad to raise my children here sciousness and local and central and to live in such a place. But am Government. But why do we have I proud? so many'angries?'

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The current Advertiser campaign seemed a good idea at first, but as the weeks have passed the trumpeting articles on reasons to be proud seem to miss the crucial point and be out of touch with the reality of Swindon today.

It seems almost perverse that there are so many wrong and bad things happening in the locality, and that many residents are unhappy and definitely 'not proud.'

Do any of the following make you angry?: • the forlorn state of the Mechanics' Institute; • the proposed conversion of the former Railway Museum from a community venue into yet more offices; • the proposed development of the Rodbourne allotments; • the botched closure of Salt Way School; • turning the Front Garden into a housing estate the size of Wootton Bassett; • the(dismissed)stadiumonShaw Forest Country Park; • completely de-regulating taxis; • axing grants to the voluntary and community sector; • charging town centre residents and disabled drivers for parking; • the souless – now and probably in the future - town centre; • the Regional Assembly plans for another 24,000 houses for Swindon;

The decisions that bring about the unhappiness are made at both local and central government levels - by people we vote (or don't vote) for.

At the last local council elections the turnout was about 30 per cent.

The winning candidates got in with about 15 per cent of the Borough's population approval. It is only slightly better at national level.

Saying 'it's not worth voting, it won't make any difference' is clearly not true. It does. If you don't vote for somebody who broadly holds your point of view then it is likely that you will empower somebody who does not.

There is absolutely no point in moaning about how the town is run if you don't do anything about it. Change for the better will only come if you - the person who has read this far - does something.

I am optimistic that there are signs that things are changing.

There may be a proper bricks and mortar library, the return of the canal to the town centre is being considered, commercial exploitation of the Mechanics' Institute could be blocked, and some councillors are publicly opposing the destruction of Coate.

Are you proud of Swindon?

What's your viewpoint of the real issues affecting our town.

Contribute to a proper debate about pride by mailing: editor@swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • September 2005 5

The Coate debate is conclusive: the people say no' to development, but will `the powers that be' say `yes'?

Thanks to articles and letters in the Swindon Advertiser during August, there can be little doubt that very few people want development of any kind on the Gateway site, between the Great Western Hospital and Coate Water.

The majority want to see a uni- original plans to develop at North versity - particularly if it's called Star, we can all retire in peace in University of Swindon and not an the knowledge that Swindon will outpost of the University of Bath - get a university and keep an area and they want to see it bringing that has been dear to people's life and dynamism to the town hearts for future generations.

"Special places need special procentre, rather than sprawled out next to Swindon's favourite place. tection."

The battle lines are now drawn. See the objections at In April house builders Redrow www.savecoate.org.uk Homes and Persimmon Homes, The Gateway plan can be found who have given land free to the C@ www.swindon-gateway.co.uk University of Bath, submitted a planning application for 1,800 Present & past views homes, a business park and a 10,000 The university now does not want a place campus. town centre location because it In July campaigners delivered a would be incompatib/e with the cur20,000 name petition objecting to rent brand image 0/the tiniversityof the development to Swindon Bath.

Council's planning department, in The decision was made at a readvance of the application going cent UofB council meeting in rebefore the planning committee in sponse to a proposal put by the Swindon Civic Trust earlier this year. the Autumn.

Jean Saunders of the Save Coate It was different on 13 March 2001 group said campaigners were when the then University of Bath's heartened by the volume of letters former Vice Chancellor, Prof and comments published in the VandeLinde said at the Swindon & Advertiser. "There has been an out- Wiltshire Forum that the Oakfield pouring of objections. The people Campus would be a minor, but sigof Swindon and surrounding ar- nificant, site for the university's aceas realise key decisions will be tivities in Swindon. However, the made in the next few months and University smajor site wou/dbe the more and more councillors are North Star Campus, as inc/udedin questioning whether development the Councils 2030 vision for the redevelopment ofthe town centre.' should take place at Coate.

"But, how much opposition to Swindon & Marlborough NHS Trust the development proposals will it supporting document to the Great take to stop borough councillors Western Hospital planning applicafrom voting them through? ti on:6Jan 1998: There shou/dbe no "If the NHS Trust and the coun- fearforthe hospita/being used as a cil are true to their word and if the precedent for furthergenera/devefUniversity of Bath stick to their opment to the south of Swindon.

The Link Magazine Swindon Publications Ltd. 70 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 J e: editor@swindonlink.com ) www.swindonlink.com Publisher'Editor:

Roger Ogle

Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial copy date for October: 6 September Published: 24 September Copy for November: 11 October

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

Call Jenni Fowler on (01793) 872531 publisher@swindonlink.com Booking deadline: 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 printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority

Registered In England & Wales. No. 4513027. Registered 0 9.ce. 130 High Street. Hungertord. Berks. RG17 ODL. Printed by pop. Telford

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The Link Magazine • September 2005

Building a trust in our town The Swindon Civic Trust was formed in 2002 in response to a long standing sense of local dissatisfaction with the results of planning for Swindon; the town has not realised its full potential, nor responded to the needs of the people who live here, writes secretary Kate Brailsford.

For many years Civic Trusts all Our main concern at this time is For a full view of our position on Annual General Meeting with over Britain - made up of residents the town centre which is in urgent Coate and the town centre go to guest speaker George Ferguson, current President of RIBA (Royal of a locality - have been working need of attention. Development www.swindoncivictrust.org.uk for improvement by coordinating must be visionary, coordinated and Our activities expanded this year Institute of British Architects) in community organisations to have sustainable so as to produce a cen- with the launch of a talks' pro- Community Crossroads (old Raila positive influence on the way tre that we can all be proud of for gramme for Civic Trust members, way Museum), Faringdon Road.

George Ferguson is passionate towns develop. many years to come. professionals and decision makThe Swindon Civic Trust's aims: Central to this is the location of ers. We have hosted consultations about the quality of the built envi• to promote high standards of the University of Bath in Swindon. to outline our proposals for the ronment. The subject of his talk is planning, environmental sustaina- The university is hellbent on build- university, a talk on why the Na- the Power of Place in Urbanism bility and architecture; ing its campus at Coate alongside tional Trust relocated to a which considers how urban de• to research, inform and educate 1,800 houses and a large business brownfield site in Swindon and sign can accommodate higher denthe public in the geography, his- park. There was strong opposition co-sponsored an evening at May's sities, mixed uses and less dependence on the car to build stronger tory, natural history, architecture, to this being included in the Local Swindon Festival of Literature. the built environment and the proc- Plan this Spring and we await the The next event on Monday 5 communities, whilst conserving ess of government; planning inspector's recommenda- September, 7.45pm is a showing of surrounding countryside.

Admission: £4 (£3 concessions). a video Jefferies' Land produced by • to secure the preservation, pro- tions in the Autumn.

For details about joining Swintection, development and imCoate Water was voted Swin- John Webb of the Richard Jefferies provement of features of historic don's favourite place in a Civic Society at the Community Cross- don Civic Trust contact the secreroads, Faringdon Road. Admis- tary Kate Brailsford on 495479 or or public interest in the area.

Trust competition in 2003. mail: info@swindoncivictrust In a short time we have estabThe town centre is ready for re- sion: £2.

On Thursday 15 September .org.uk lished a forum for the people and generation now; it would be a www.swindoncivictrust.org.uk groups to discuss issues relating missed opportunity to place the 7.30pm, the Civic Trust holds it to Swindon. university anywhere else.

Mechanics' hope as planning inspector arrives to decide its future London trained mobile hair stylist For a visit call Sue on 07796 432 700 or email sue@thecuttingclub.com

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The crumbling Mechanics' Institute could be returned to community usage, following a decision by Swindon's planning committee in late July to throw out an application to knock down part of the Grade III listed building and put up a ten storey blue glass box in the middle of it for a hotel. ing and the RailLast year way Village owner Matthew which is potenSingh was given tially a world permission to deheritage site. velop offices, "I think everyconference facilione accepts that ties and a restauthe 1930's fly rant in the southtower is pretty ern part of the awful, but the building. Earlier plans submitted this year he apwere in my opinplied for permision even worse. sion for a hotel There are many but English Herexamplesofmoditage stepped in ern additions to at the eleventh listed building hour to take the D dar for the Mechanics' which work very decision away well. This was not one of them." from Swindon Council.

In July the Mechanics' Trust subAs a result a planning enquiry on 28 September will consider ar- mitted an application for listed guments for the hotel and the pro- building consent, which if acposal by the New Mechanics' Trust cepted, would indicate that their to refurbish the building for use by plans are feasible and appropriate community organisations, includ- to the historic character of the ing offices for voluntary organisa- building. Trust member Martha tions, conference facilities, a cin- Parry has high hopes that it could ema, a youth venue, theatre and be successful. "Returning the building to community use would restaurants.

The July planning committee's massively contribute to the regendecision to block the blue box eration of Swindon town centre." pleased all who have been camIn a 2000 report to English Herpaigning to save the building for itage and Swindon Council, award winning architects Fielden Clegg the community.

Committee member Fresh brook Bradley, designers of the National and Grange Park councillor Peter Trust headquarters at ChurchGreenhalgh said the proposal was ward, said it would be very diffirejected because it was totally un- cult to find a commercially viable sympathetic to the original build- use for the building.

The Link Magazine • September 2005 7

Priory Vale centre first shops due Autumn 06 Following The Link's August exclusive feature on the new schools being built in Priory Vale, we can reveal that construction work is due to start in January 2006 on creating the village centre for Priory Vale, with a convenience store and four shops set to be open in the Autumn.

This will coincide with the openChris Cain, develop"These will be local shops and it ing of the Priory Vale primary ment manager for Crest is important to get the mix right to school, the two special schools and Nicholson said, "the con- provide services local people need community facilities in the secondvenience store will provide close to their homes." ary school on the education camgroceries and other servThe design of the second phase pus next to the village centre. ices and will be the largest of the village centre is being Developers Crest Nicholson are of the shops. We are mar- worked on at the moment prior to in advanced stages of talks with a keting the four other shop detailed planning permission beconvenience store operator and units and have had a lot of ing sought. This may include a expect to be able to announce the interest for a variety of public house, a medical centre and name soon. uses. a church."

BT pledges to remove

Toothill centre improved

Haydon graffiti Work has been completed on a scheme to improve the design and security at Toothill Village Centre.

Haydon Wick councillor Wayne ,4, Trees have been thinned and new fencing Lawley has welcomed a promise erected around the car park. The low walls from BT to clear up graffiti from all and seating between The Watchers sculpture their equipment sited in his area. .a and the shops had become an attraction to After a lack of response from ,.. rowdy youths who intimidated shoppers.The ": Swindon based managers, erst, coup area has been opened up and the sculpture ' ^. ~' ^ the e topp straight s outside the community centre.

Y g and received a commitment from , Many of the changes had been suggested t / the BT chairman Sir Christopher s f by the West Swindon Neighbourhood EnviBland that a team would clean up ' , """''" j ronment Safety Team (NEST) and funding 1 i ,^ graffiti on BT street equipment. secured by local councillors. Coun Mary Coun Lawley said, "Haydon Martin said, "the centre is looking neater ' z# Wick has suffered a plague of grafGC now. I've arranged for the removal of graffiti fiti. Parish and borough councilon the shops which should complete the relors, the Police, other utility comfurbishment."

- paniesandcommunityheartedin' NEST member Anne McHugh said, "the di duals have been battling to centre is looking smarter. A lot of people thought The Watchers had disappeared but Anne McHugh, back right, with Toothill residents Cathy Evans eradicate the graffiti and the causes I behind it." everybody is pleased that they are back." and Larry Score and local youngsters in front of The Watchers

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The Link Magazine • September 2005

8

West forum to discuss youth interests A wide ranging survey of 330 youngsters aged 10 to 18 years carried out between April and June will be discussed at the West Area Forum on Monday 12 September.

At May's West Forum senior range of people with local council- nity concern with residents. AnyA questionnaire drawn up by the West Area Youth Service Team council officers responsible for lors, Lindsey hopes the discussion body can attend to contribute and the West Swindon Family youth provision reported on the will influence the level of resources views and ideas on how to improve the area.

Project,withhelpfromyoungpeo- poor performance of the service provided for youth in the area.

The Forum on 12 September The forum is an opportunity for pie, covered a range of topics such highlighted by Ofsted inspectors.

Youth services manager Peter the eight West Swindon council- takes place in the Link Centre comas the facilities they use, what they would like to see in the area, where Robinson said, "we need to involve lors to discuss issues of commu- m Lmity suite at 7.30pm. they go for help and support and young people in developing a strattheir concerns about crime. egy for delivering a better Take off with Air Cadets Lindsay Poole, youth develop- service."The results which conThe West Swindon based unit is inviting boys and girls over 13 years ment worker for West Swindon eluded that young people want to a recruitment evening on Friday 9 September, 7.30pm, in the said, "the survey was a big project more low cost and safe activities for us. It has produced a lot of for their age group are being fed community room at Westlea School to meet cadets and staff and learn information to help us develop new back to survey participants via the about ATC activities through videos and displays.

Parents, relatives and friends are opportunities in the West where library, schools andThe Mobie mothere is little in the way of facilities bile youth centre. As the West Area all welcome and light refreshments Forum brings together a wide will be available. The cadets will specifically for young people." give a short drill display at the of the evening.

Toothill Farm secure - for the time being beginning In the past year several cadets Toothill Junior Youth Club have been told by Swindon Council they have taken up flying training at the can use the Toothill Farm Centre for the foreseable future. gliding school at Hullavington. CaClub secretary Mavis Reed said dets have also flown the RAF'sbasic The council told the club last November that they would have the 60 children who attend Friday trainer atRAF Boscombe Down and wich, where a RAF Jaguar fast jet to leave the building, but a cam- night club sessions could have been in June had a go in the new Hercules squadron is based. Closer to home, paign involving local councillors thrown out and the building left simulator at RAF Lyneham. theunitcarried out an evening fieldand The Link, has put a decision on empty. "We suspected council ofJune also saw cadets as marshalls craft exercise in Lydiard Park when hold until clearer ideas are pro- ficers wanted to clear out all users at the air show at Kemble. cadets were able to practice the of the farm so it could be used for posed.

All cadets in the unit complete a ground tactics they had been learnThe Toothill Farm site has been other purposes. We're thankful to weapons handling qualification ing during the year. designated as a potential housing our councillors and The Link for that enables them to undertake riIf you are unable to attend on 9 development area in the Swindon blocking such a move and ensur- fle shooting training each month. September call Warrant Officer Local Plan - if there is no viable ing there is discussion about the This year's summer camp was Helen Woodham on 07798 682202 farm's future." community use for the site. held at RAF Coltishall near Nor- for more information.

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10 The Link Magazine • September 200 5

New Bishop hits the ground running to reconnect people with the church The new Bishop of Swindon the Rt Revd Dr Lee Rayfield has been very busy since his inauguration at St Paul's Cathedral in June. Apart from setting up home in Old Town and preparing for the arrival of his family. he's been rushing around meeting church congregations in the Swindon area, visiting schools, community groups and discovering more about the town from civic and business leaders. However he made time to talk to Susan White.

In July Bishop Lee preached this I approach Mark House with a message at St Mary's Church in mixture of nervousness and curiLydiard Park after the 'Park It' osity. I am about to meet my first Celebration. "I spoke about the bishop and I've been told he's a importance of the Sabbath rest. Life bit of a fitness fanatic. I wonder, is busy for everybody and the will he be wearing a robe, or trainChurch shouldn't be offering aners ... or both? other model of the same. Like JeThe secretary leads me through sus we all need to have less on our the main office, apologising for the plate at times. Christians need to disorder; a computer engineer is have a pace of life that is fulfilled working at a terminal. The office is but not full of hurry." still being set up but Dr Rayfield At the end of our interview, has wasted no time. Since his apBishop Lee makes time for a mopointment on 8 June, he has been ment of quietness and prayer. As I camping out on a sofa bed and working before the family moves Bishop Lee with Hreod Parkway School Year 11 leavers and lieadteachers Andrew leave, the next visitor arrives. A busy afternoon lies ahead before from Maidenhead.

Fleet when he attended the Key Stage 2 presentation evening on 30 June donning training kit to compete in The Bishop's office is bright and A scientist by training, Dr the fictional superheroes ends. an 800 metre race. The new Bishop modern, not a robe, pointed hat or 'dog collar' in sight. I set aside my Rayfield's last secular post was Bishop Lee is determined to keep of Swindon certainly practises preconceptions as Dr Rayfield im- lecturer in Immunology before people's expectations of him in what he preaches. mediately puts me at my ease, training as a vicar in 1991. Wife, perspective - and his own too. "I • What about the religious bits? apologising for the old chair (the Liz, a learning support assistant, have a notice in my office and it Next month Bishop Lee explains new ones haven't arrived), and ex- didn't want to be married to a vicar says 'There is a Redeemer, and it's his missionary role and his views presses his concern that it might either: "We've had to work through not me!' It's better to do a few on controversial issues such as things but do them well. I want to women bishops and whether scicollapse. Sitting down, gingerly, I that," he added. have my first impression of SwinThey have three children, Matt live out my call and help others do ence has disproved the Bible.

21, Simon 18 and Louise 14. His the same." don's new bishop.

At 49, Lee Rayfield doesn't look latest church posts included being his age. "I'm wearing well!," he a vicar, chaplain and Area Dean smiles but is quick to add: "we all at the same time. ordained new clergy last week and Bishop Lee both works hard and Toothill Lunch Club has 62 people on p half of them were younger than plays hard. He now trains with its books and needs more volunteers to me. I'm happy when I start to feel Swindon Harriers athletics club assist with serving meals at Toothill old." and, with two of his children, com- Community Centre on Wednesdays.

To help call Annette Kennedy on Bishop Lee is one of the new petes in track events. He enjoys 'missionary bishops,' with a brief playing tennis, football, golf and, 614492.

At Freshbrook Lunch Club volunto help people reconnect with the with Liz, watching rugby union.

Church of England, a role he is Somehow, he also finds time to teer organisers are in desperate need of somebody to drive the Dial-A-Ride passionate about "people want a watch films and make cider.

Dr Rayfield is Swindon's sec- minibus to collect club members from bishop they can relate to, who understands them someone who's ond bishop (the first was appointed around West Swindon to attend on in 1994), a 'suffragan' or partner Mondays. The person must be aged 25 in touch."

He never anticipated becoming for Bishop Mike Hill, based in Bris- to 70, have a clean licence, and be availLome and join us pail 'oltnilcers a bishop at all. "I didn't even want tol. He jokingly attempts to de- able between 9.30am and 2.30pm. at Toothill Community Centre to be a vicar, and no-one expected scribe their respective roles, "he's Volunteers to prepare and serve lunch are also required. For details call Lor- Chris Bryant, Marie Score, me to. I just had a very strong call Batman and I'm Robin."

Maureen Humphries But there the comparison with raine Webb on 871017. to leave what I was doing."

Two lunch clubs in need of help

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The Link Magazine • September 2005 11

Sensational flavours on offer at a food fayre to raise money for Indonesia Tsunami Appeal Swindon's Muslim women are preparing a fantastic culinary feast for the third International Food Fayre which takes place at the Oasis Leisure Centre on Saturday 10 September, 12noon to 4pm.

Entry is free and open to all.

There will also be a bouncy casTour the stalls set up by Swindon tle, henna painting, hair braiding, people with origins in at least 16 face painting and other activities, Asian, European and South Ameriso bring all the family along. can countries and take your pick The organisers want to show from the rich variety of home-made their revulsion for the London terdishes and fantastic desserts. Main ror bombs and local artists will courses will cost £3.50. provide a way for everyone to exAll the food is paid for and prepress the rejection of race hate and pared by volunteers. Last year the community division. event raised £2,300 for children's For further details contact Saira charities in Iraq and China, and McGuire on 07810 846534. also Koalas Swindon Opportunity Group for children with special in Bandah Aceh needs.

Koalas will again benefit and is working in Banda Aceh, the Inmoney will be sent to Hatch- donesian town hit hardest in last A Barnwell Charitable Trust which year's Tsunami disaster.

Fire Chief alarm over North Swindon roads People living in Priory Vale are in danger because parked cars could prevent emergency vehicles getting through says the new station commander at Westlea Fire Station.

"There are some very narrow roads in the new housing layouts in Priory Vale. If people do not use allocated parking bays, vital seconds will be lost if a fire appliance is held up," said station officer Ian Jeary. "It just takes somebody to `VESTLEi park in the wrong place or if there are extra vehicles visiting a household, and lives could be in danger.

"I realise it's difficult in these higher density areas, but please pay greater attention to where you park. Talk to your neighbours so that everybody agrees how to manReflecting on age the limited space available."

Ian returns to Westlea from a job the inevitable at Wiltshire Fire HQ near Devizes Age Concern Swindon holds its following a brigade restructure.

Annual General Meeting on ThursHe started in the service as a day 15 September, 2pm, in the Pilfirefighter at Westlea in 1994 and grim Centre, Regent Circus. like all the 20 men on the two The guest speaker will be Gerry watches there, he lives within a Burke from Age Concern England. few emergency reaction minutes He will talk about his work with from the station.

Age Concern to gain an underHe said firefighters wanted to standing of 'the spiritual' from the thank all who supported the staperspective of a secular charity. tion open day on 23 July which He will consider the inevitable raised £830 for the Fire Services experience of getting older and the Benevolent Fund. constant opportunity to make Car Wash sense of who we are and what our The next event in aid of the FSBF lives have meant to us and to othis a car wash on Saturday 10 ers. It does not need religious beSeptember. 1 1 am to 4pm. lief to enable this to happen, though Tickets for a Christmas party for some it is a framework for what at the station will be on sale in they find in their reflections.

October.

Whether you are of a religious persuasion or not, Gerry's talk will Free smoke alarms available Wiltshire Fire Brigade is running generate thought and discussion.

Everyone is welcome to attend. a community safety initiative offering free smoke detectors with • Age Concern will be moving from 14 Milton Road to 1 Milton Road at a 10 year battery to every household, including fitting. For details the end of September. The telephone number remains 692166. call 0800 389 7849.

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Recover to eat The people of Swindon, like many localities in Britain, do not have ready access to a specialist eating disorder support service.

For the last six months a number gramme of relevant topics is schedof organisations concerned about uled. The format alternates bethis lack of support have been run- tween listening to guest speakers ning an eating disorder recovery and discussion. People are free to group on the 2nd and 4th Wednes- attend all or some of the sessions. day of the month at the Well Young people between the ages Woman Centre, Milton Road of 16 and 18 must be accompanied Health Hydro, 6.45pm to 8.30pm. by a responsible adult (over 18) The cost is £2.50 per session. each time they attend.

The focus of the group is recov- There is no need to book. For ery from an eating disorder and details contact the Well Woman open to anyone with a disorder, Centre on 511064 between 9.30am and their family and friends. The and 1.30pm weekdays or mail: sessions are guided and a pro- enquiriesC+>wwcswindon.fsnet.co.uk

• •

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Visit Purton's happy chickens in healthy food week With so much publicity about the quality of food, particularly in schools, Organic Week, the UK's largest celebration of organic food and farming between 3 and 11 September will be a good time to find out more.

On Sunday 4 September, 11am to 4pm, walk round the vegetable beds, visit the animals and talk to the food growers at Purton House Farm, Church End, Purton.

The family run farm supplies, a fast expanding vegetable box delivery scheme, and produce their own organic eggs from truly happy free range chickens. They have just started a meat box scheme using beef from their own Limousin suckler herd and pork, lamb and chicken from other local Soil Association approved producers.

This really is food produced on your door step. There will be a mini farmers' market selling organic produce and an organic barbecue, plus live music and all the fun of being down on the farm. www.soilassociation.org • www.whycrganic.org

New school takes on lunch Children returning to Bridlewood School in September will be enjoying school dinners cooked on the premises by a directly employed catering team.

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Bridlewood Infants demonstrate some classroom cooking for Jane Rodbourn, right, catering manager Alison Cox, centre, and Sue Smith, assistant

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SN26 4YZ

The North Swindon school, which opened in its new buildings in April, was caught up in the chaos of school meals provision when Swindon Services pulled out of school catering.

Headteacher Jane Rodbourn said governors had decided to offer in-house catering after the majority of parents indicated they wanted a hot meal for their children. "We've had tremendous support from parents, but we couldn't

undertake such a commitment without the enthusiasm of our catering manager Alison Cox. Since we moved into the new buildings, the number of lunches served has risen from 35 to 60. Working within the constraints of the Swindon Services contract meals were adapted to suit a majority of tastes and always beautifully presented.

"With Alison in charge of the kitchen I'm sure school dinners will become even better."

The Link Magazine • September 2005 13 DO YOU WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE'S LIVES?

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14 The Link Magazine • September 2005

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Party time at Prospect Silver anniversary Garden Party at Prospect Hospice Saturday 3 September, 12noon to 4pm Celebrating 25 years of pro viding care, comfort and help to patients and their /o ved ones, facing an uncertain future with hope and understanding. and ten years at the Hospice in Wroughton Stalls, treasure hunt, fun and entertainment by local talent, children's disco, majorettes, 5 to the Bar and many others.

Refreshments and a special prize for the wackiest silver outfit.

Parking at the hospice in Wroughton is limited. Please park at Nationwide in Pipers Way, Old Town and hop on the free Thamesdown Transport bus.

Win cash with Prospect. Support a local charity

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Think about how much you might save by looking at your mortgage 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 17 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excell ent and personal service.

There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it 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

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Would you like to win £2,500 in the special silver anniversary lottery draw for Prospect?

Prospect run a weekly lottery, tickets as you like.

If you're not a member, join the but there are now only a few weeks to go before an anniversary draw lottery now and get this one off extra chance to cash in. to boost funds, The important issue is that whilst There are two additional prizes of £250 and 25 more prizes of £25 you stand a good chance of winning, you know that all the profit each to be drawn on 7 October.

Every member of the existing from the lottery supports the paProspect Lottery already has one tients at the Prospect Hospice.

Special draw tickets at £1 are entry for this special draw, but to increase your winning chances, available from the Prospect charyou can buy as many additional ity shops, or call 816155.

Hall for hire Toothill Community Centre is making a special offer to Link readers.

Book the centre's hall and receive one hour's hire free of charge worth £12.50. For details call Annette Kennedy, weekday mornings, on 614492.

Musical fun in Highworth Swindon College Musical Fun for Tots classes take place on Tuesday 9.30am and also on Thursday 9.30am and 10.30am at Highworth Methodist Church.

Classes start at the end of September and cost £21 for a ten week course. For details call Dawn Golton on 861539, or freephone Swindon College on 0800 731 2250.

Making music with tots Mini Musicians, a fun song session group for babies and pre-school children, has been running in the town for just over 18 months.

Mini Musicians recently organStarted by Catherine Neate and Sarah Bannon, it now has a grow- ised a Summer Ball atthe Blunsdon ing team of six leaders who run 32 House Hotel and are busy plansessions in and around Swindon, ning a Valentines' Ball at the Pagoda Palace for next year. Mini as well as party entertainment.

Nearly 300 children attend each Musicians regularly organises exweek, singing songs, playing tra events for its parents and chilgames and exploring rhythm. The dren, including Teddy Bears picsessions are structured, but infor- nics, coffee mornings and Mini Mad days in the school holidays. mal and always great fun.

Due to overwhelming requests, Mini Musicians have teamed / I` up with Maddy from Mad Mad to launch 'Smiley Cats,' an after y school club for 4 to 8 '._

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The team, back from left, Hazel Joynson, Catherine Neate, Sarah Balvion.

Front, Clare Dyer and Jo Critchley

year

olds

providing

creative play, with costumes, arts and crafts and face painting. The group starts at the Haydon Centre in September.

For details of Mini Musicians and Smiley Cats call Cath Neate on 727286.

The Link Magazine • September 2005 15

Finding the way to Taw Hill Youngsters at St Francis Church of England Primary School in Taw Hill have been discovering how to get to school on foot or bicycle by using The Link's extremely useful North Swindon map.

Crafty Little Monkeys Fun Art & Craft sessions for 18 months to pre -school Painting, sticking, modelling and more!

Are party bags a problem?

Then let us help you We supply colourful A4 re-sealable bags with a selectioi of sweets and novelties direct to your door for only £1.95 each

For venues and bookings call Emma on 01793 702228 emma@CraftyLittleMonkeys.co.uk www.craftylittlemonkeys.co.uk

Cheryl York with St Francis youngsters holding the North Swindon map

The governors put the finishing touches to their School Transport Plans last term and are hoping that even more parents decide to take the healthy option for their children by walking. Governor Cheryl York said a survey in the summer term produced encouraging results.. "Fifty eight per cent of our children walk to school already, five per cent use bicycles, but 37 per cent arrive by car.

"Some families live a distance from the school and come by car, but there are children from Ash Brake and Haydon Wick which are over a mile away who cycle or

walk. From the survey 80 per cent say they would like to walk to school, but only 57 per cent actually do so. We'd like more parents to leave the car at home and step out for good health and family bonding before and after school."

Cheryl said governors are applying for a Walk to School grant for bike racks and to cover the cost of producing maps, stickers and information to incentivise walkers.

• The North Swindon map is available from the Priory Vale Visitor Centre and the North and West Libraries.

Young engineers work out problems Youngsters from West Swindon primary schools were again invited to take part in the second Greendown Engineering Challenge sponsored by the Society of Automotive Engineers and BMW Group.

1

Working out if winning idea, the Oliver Tomkins Junior School tealn, from left, Liam Allson, Sam Green, Amanda Walker, Elizabeth Hutchins, John Phillips, with Greendown teachers and technicians, and competition sponsors, Daze Cleverly, second left, and Paul Kownacki, second right

Youngsters from the four par- of materials to create a robust deticipating schools had to design a sign, and of course the distance floor skimmer using paper, straws travelled under wind power. and rubber bands. When the proTeachers and technicians from totypes were fully tested for the Greendown engineering team strength and stability, each group and Year 7 and 9 students worked had to put their craft up against with the primary school children the other entries in a skim off in during the competition. Green down head Steve O'Sullivan confront of a fan.

The children were judged on gratulated each team for their abiltheir ability to solve problems by ity to think laterally to solve the working together, the efficient use challenge before them.

The Ohana experience is much more than simply dining, it is a food led occasion for all the family. Enjoy a relaxing visit to Ohana's tropical island set in the heart of the West Country. is a Hawaiian word for 'family or 'community'

Ohana's extensive family menu caters for all tastes. Have fun using Ohana's play facilities, including the Tikki room and playframe, whilst game consoles will occupy even the most enthusiastic youngster!

^^ Watch out for Ohana'a Live entertainment schedule. Later sittings are accompanied by lighter music sets on Fridays and Saturdays, also enjoy Ohana's gala event night once a month.

You'll find Ohana on the Shaw Ridge Leisure Pork with ample convenient free parking. To transport yourself to a for off land, just simply stroll through Ohana's foyer!

16 The Link Magazine • September 2005

Can we really be proud of Swindon?

Salt Way teacher Suzanne Welch said farewell to her class in July, forced with most of her colleagues to seek more secure employment, away from the uncertainty of her school's future and her career. As Salt Way begins possibly its last year of existance, Suzanne reflects on the performance of the council she used to work for.

Swindon and the surrounding January?' were the most common schools for their children and staff not been followed correctly and area is a superb place to live. We phrases at the school during this felt forced to apply for other teach- the consultation procedure was have most of the amenities a town time, whilst we all tried to carry on ing positions to secure employment. going to start again. This meant should have, coupled with the as normal.

By late June however, the school that the school would no longer benefits of living in the middle of Many parents took places at other was informed that due process had close in January 2006 but by Septhe beautiful British countryside. tember 2006, if the proposal was Swindon should indeed be proud. accepted.

However, can we say we are By then it was too late; over 100 really proud of our local education children had left the school and authority? An authority that has many of the staff had been apwasted eight months of tax paypointed to jobs elsewhere, many ers' money on a consultation procout of the town. ess on the closure of three West Surely all this emotional upSwindon primary schools, only to heaval and financial waste could be told that they didn't follow corhave been avoided if guidelines rect procedure and now have to had been followed correctly. Perstart the process all over again. haps the highly paid and newly reIn April, it was reported that appointed Director of Education Salt Way Primary could close by Hilary Pitts would now like to exJanuary 2006 if the council's proplain to Swindon taxpayers how posal was successful. This anthis mess came about. nouncement caused panic amongst Swindon has many things to be the parents, children and staff at proud of. Perhaps an investigathe school. 'Where will my child tion into the shambles over Salt be educated?'I won't have a school Suzanne Welch with her class in July, using the recently completed Way, might lead to us being proud to go to' and 'will I have a job come IT suite at Salt Way which may be redundant in 9 months time of our LEA too.

What's to become of education in West Swindon?

The West Swindon Labour Party is holding a public meeting at Upper Shaw Farm on Monday 19 September, 7pm, open to anyone wishing to discuss education in West Swindon.

On the agenda will be the proposed closure of Salt Way, forthcoming consultation on the future of Toothill, Freshbrook and Windmill Hill Primary Schools, and changes to school catchment areas. The Extended Schools agenda could also be considered.

For more details call Neil Heavens on 873700.

Be a school governor in North Swindon In just 12 months two primary schools and two special schools will open in Priory Vale. A year later the

North Swindon secondary school will open. Governors are needed now to prepare for these events, and also to serve at other schools across the borough.

Governors represent the largest volunteer force in the country with approximately one per cent of the adult population serving in this capacity at any one time.

They bring highly valued skills, experience and objectivity and have an interest in the role of schools in society.

Governors are local people who wish to make a positive investment of time in their communities and contribute to the effective dayto-day running of the school and its educational achievements.

A governing body's overriding responsibility is to work in partnership with the headteacher to promote continuous improvement in school performance. This in-

volves the establishment of a development plan, the setting of challenging but achievable targets and the interpretation of information to assess progress and determine appropriate action. Typically, a governor's duties will take around 6 hours of spare time each month.

Aligned to its improvement role, the governing body is there to be a 'critical friend' who can provide the right balance between supporting and challenging the performance of both the head teacher and the school.

Swindon Local Education Authority values the voluntary contribution of its governors and in return aims to provide a high-quality training and support service.

Governors are able to access this support in a variety of ways including training courses and a designated helpline. A regular newsletter is sent to all school governors to keep them informed of developments in education policy and current best practices.

Being a community governor can be stimulating, enjoyable and rewarding. If you have the enthusiasm and desire to become closely involved in the running of a school and want to find out more, call for an information pack and to arrange a friendly, informal chat.

Write to the Governor Support Team, Swindon Borough Council, Sanford House, Sanford Street, Swindon SN1 1QH or call 463875.

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The Link Magazine • September 2005 17

Great summer holiday send off Staff and children at Westlea School departed for the summer break in July with a ringing endorsement from Ofsted inspectors.

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BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town, Swindon Tel: 534271

Ilcadteacher Suzanne Seaton, 'err' right, with Year 6leavers on the lastdayof term, from left, Ryan Hammersley, Jessica Blyth, Mandeep Nahal, Nikki Baker, Jayde Weatherley, Kirsty Blackwell, Sam Godfrey, Lonni Pignatelli, Eleanor Joyce.

Teacher Cathie Squire was recruited from Australia in 2003, met the man in her life and returned home for the summer to repeat her vows with family and friends

The report of the inspection in May says the very positive ethos at the school leads to very good pupil attitudes and behaviour. Teach-

ing and learning are good in the Foundation Stage, English, Mathematics and Science and ICT. The inspectors were impressed by the good range of additional activities which enrich the curriculum, and the school is particularly successful in providing for pupils with physical difficulities and integrating them into classes. There has been good progress in provision for more able pupils.

Good leadership and management of the school contributes to pupils' personal development, their academic development and to good improvements since the last inspection. Ofsted believe the school provides good value for money.

The report also comments on the school's standing in the community and the positive views of parents.

Headteacher Suzanne Seaton said she was thrilled with the report. "The assessment was well deserved by a fantastic team."

Fresh over 50s The Swindon University of the Third Age (U3A) invites anybody over 50 and not in full time work to a Freshers Fair to discover the range of courses, lectures and group activities on offer.

The U3A offers groups covering a wide range of interests to sti mulate the mind and keep the body active - from arts and crafts to science and technology, history, languages. literature, music, dance and recreation.

There are also regular social get togethers for coffee. lunch, lectures and rambles.

The Freshers Fair takes place on Saturday 10 September, 10am to f pm at Lawn Community Centre. Guildford Avenue.

Go along to find out more or call the membership office on 690936.

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Looking for childcare you can trust?

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• Fun, friendly & professional home setting • Priory Vale, Haydon Wick, Abbey Meads • Full & part time, before & after school • Competitive rates

The Springboard to Confidence for your child

Britain's leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years.

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Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing. co-ordination appropriate to his or her age.

Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential li stening and language skills.

Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.

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Tumble Tots now in your area!

For information about local centres call

Charlotte Boyes-Corfield on 0844 800 0219

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18 The Link Magazine • September 2005

Abbey Tofs Toddler ,; Group

ATTENTION ALL PARENTS Music, Singing & Movement From the UK's leading

music group

• Weekly activity • Songs/story time • Variety of toys • Meet new friends • £1.25 per session Thursday 9.45am - 11.15am during term time at Abbey Meads Community School Interested? Call Amanda 702311

IS

re 6 months-5 yrs Fun

o

sessions

4 with an educational s{ant

ABBEY MEAbS (Tue & Fri) WEST SWINbON (F ri) Call Virginia on 01453 839464 www. jojingles. corn

ini ^Tusicians

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MLLV

For children aged

Jo

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Fun Song sessions for parents/carers with

Creative fun sessions for 4-8 year olds with costumes, face-paints, games, arts & crafts Smiley Cats fun sessions are designed to encourage creativity in childrens' imaginations and expression.

Through a series of games the children learn to get along with others, stimulating ideas. The themed sessions fuel their imagination and we supply costumes and teach them the art of face-painting.

Classes are great fun. Learning experiences are enjoyable, developing their ongoing confidence and social skills.

Call 727286 for details

pre-school children & babies North Swindon library, Toothill, Lawn, Coleview, Highworth, Purton, Broad Town, Wanborough, Taw Hill, Watchfield & Wootton Bassett Call now to join in with our

musical approach to learning.

Cell Coth on 01793 727286 or email: sorah@minimusicians.co.uk

Well equipped facilities and a superb environment .

ryand Pre-f?r .ol

Multi-photo winning mum Lorna Hearn from Abbey Meads was thrilled to receive a collection of pictures of her baby son Connor, after she won a competition worth £325 in the May Link to launch a new service from mykidspix.com A photographer visited her home to take over 100 4 f shots of Connor and 60 . were printed on a poster, with the best three enlarged.

"They're really fantastic pictures which capture Connor beautifully," said s-^ ^^ ti Z °~, %X 1 ^^^p> ` Lorna. "I forgot about en U teringthecompetitionjust before my wedding in May, so it was a lovely surprise to receive the letter from The Link saying we had won.

"The photos are lovely; every parent should have them done."

The photo package starts at £195. For details log on to: mykidspix.com

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Parent panel recruiting The Swindon Parent Panel is on the lookout for new members women and men - to help plan local health services for parents, babies and children.

The panel, which currently has two hours every six weeks in term five members, was setup about 12 time and tries to represent the years ago to ensure the views of needs of children of all ages from ordinary parents were taken into all over Swindon, is seen as a valuaccount in planning local health able source of information on local services. Although none of the parents'viewsbyNHSbodiessuch parents has any background in the as Swindon Primary Care Trust. A health service, they meet together free creche is provided and travelseparately, and with health serv- ling expenses are paid. ice professionals, to help shape To find out more mail: proposals for new services and give clive_and_amanda@tiscali.co.uk feedback on current services, or call 07913 901646 to speak to a The panel, which meets for about panel member.

M EA DOW PA RK

• individual care individual

learning

• Specialist teachers for Early Years Education • Gentle, experienced, qualified staff dedicated to babies Large separate classrooms for each age group (3 months to 7 years) • Excellent OFSTED inspection report

National Childbirth Trust Nearly New Sale

To request a brochure or to visit, telephone

Swindon 752600

Oasis Leisure Centre, Saturday 15 October, 11am-fpm. Ad: £1 Fantastic quality selection of clothes for 0 to 4years, cots, prams. nursery equipment, maternity wear, toys, videos and books.

Fora Se//e r'spack. To sell items - with 30 per cent commission going to local NCT services - send a £2.50 cheque made payable to 'NCT Swindon Branch'. with full name and address on the back, to: NCT Seller's packs. 63 Avenue Road. Old Town. SN1 4DA. Volunteers neededto help run the sale. Call 0870 421 4376 to offer.

Headstarts Day-Nursery School 0

Established 1990

Delta Business Park. Westlea, West Swindon Headstarts is a friendly, ' family' nursery offeri tn ' u warm, happy and relaxed environment where ever y child benefits from individual attention.

Conveniently located within afew minutes drive from M4 Junction 16, Town Centre, Westlea and Abbey Meads.

J Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year q Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds - am. pm. school day, all day. q flea/ value /ormoney From £130 per week full time q Funded child-care credits available.'"

Government Funded Nursery Sessions"

OFFS

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Claim up to E38 worth of Nursery Credits per child his per week - now available for all 3 year olds advert* For further information or to arrange a visit, " Conditions apply="Rates may please call Alison on 877779.

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L— — — — — — — — —

day nursery

A purpose-built nursery on the edge of Wootton Bassett Near M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon â For children 3 months to five years â Open all year from 8am to 6pm â Extensive outdoor play and garden

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â Grant places available

-

For information telephone: 0 1 793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com vary

Brinkworth Road. Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

The Link Magazine • September 2005 19

Somewhere for babies to go

Happy Bunnies

Haydon Wick's Busy Fingers toddler group launches new sessions in September for parents with under one year olds called Baby Busy Fingers.

Large numbers of mums and babes turned up to two taster sessions in

Day Nursery

July said organiser

Debbie Musa-Eggie.

"I put up a few posters and asked for a notice in

The

propel theatre arts academy

Link

and there was a fantastic response; much better than I expected.

"There are lots of parents who want to meet others and also take part in group activities with their babies, but a limited number of places where they can go."

Baby Busy Fingers starts at the

offers dance, drama and singing training for 6- 18 year olds.

Haydon Centre on Tuesday 6 September, 9.30am to 11am. All are welcome. For details call Debbie on 496900.

Put the kettle on to help another family Home-Start UK is organising its first ever national Big Tea Party and is appealing for people to hold one between 4 and 17 September, to help raise funds to support families and children in Swindon.

Home-Start Swindon, one of the aim. first ten to be set up in the early Last year its 41 home visiting 1980s, is now part of the a network volunteers helped 115 families and of 337 similar schemes across Brit- 257 children, spending a few hours a week helping parents with children under five who are finding parenting a bit of a struggle.

Organiser Jan Aylward is hoping for a big response in September "Any individual or a group can host a Big Tea Party for us. It could be for a few friends at home, or for schoolmates, colleagues at work, in a scout group... whoever they want.

"We are holding our own Big Tea Party at the Punjabi Community Centre, in Gorsehill on 16 September, 10am to 1pm for anyone who would like to contribute to Youngsters at Headstarts Nurs- our work. ery handed over £576 to children's To register a Big Tea Party and cancer charity Clic from a fun day receive an information pack call held in May. Home-Start on 0870 220 6701.

Above, fun day organiser GemrnaTutt For information on Home-Start with young Headstarts fundraisers Swindon, call Jan on 613886.

^ FUN music sessions music 3/ ` / ^• for bouncing babies, toddlers _//\ &

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Join us for nursery rhymes, puppets, bubbles, pour pours, teddies, hobby horses, instruments, scarves, ribbons & animal masks. i

free tr al sessions, no joining fee, ru n by local mums, very friendly groups.

WE NOW bO BIRTHDAY PARTIES! Classes in Abbey Meads,Ramleaze, Old Town, Stratton, Wootton Bassett, Cricklade & Wroughton. With new STAY & PLAY sessions at Space Adventure. (stay & play after your session for £1 - relax with friends over a coffee while your child plays)

Music Bugs 01793 722072/www.musicbugs.co ,uk

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• Swindon's only e Multi-Lingual Childcare • Prices from £2 per hour • Drop off facility • Holiday club • Ofsted regulated • Open all year round • lam - 7pm. Monday to Friday • School/home pick ups or drop offs

Classes run Saturdays from 12.30pm to 5.30pm at the Even Swindon Community Centre, Rodbourne.

'Happy Bunnies' focus is on delivering excellent standards, high quality education and flexible hours for each child In association with Swindon Scrapstore Members of Pre-school Learning Alliance

www.happybunniesnursery.co.uk Tel: 01793 704089 (Maria or Joanne)

Children's Information Service A one-stop shop for FREE information I SHFORMq

For a full prospectus or further enquiries please phone Gemma Pixton on

01793 703043 or drop in during class hours.

SPONSORED BY EBV ELEKTRONIK

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SWINDON

Why not pop in and see us?

6 - 7 Theatre Square. Swindon Tel: 01793 541786 Email: info@cisswindon.co.uk www.cisswindon.co.uk

20 The Link Magazine • September 2005

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Grants for Haydon groups

Community Dividend Scheme Children and young people

who are economically or socially

are returned to projects to

disadvantaged, or

benefit the

have

local community through the

qualify for a grant of up to £1,000,

disabilities, will be able to enjoy the freedom of

sailing thanks to a £1,000 community dividend grant from the Oxford Swindon & Gloucester Co-op to the Coate Water Sailing Trust to buy two new sailing dinghies.

call 0800 43 5902

for more information

Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

Would you like to keep ahead of the latest developments in information technology, listen to experts talk on IT-related topics, and meet with fellow IT professionals located in the Swindon area?

The Swindon branch of the British Computer Society (BCS)is inviting you to a branch meeting. The BCS is the industry body for IT professionals, and a Chartered Engineering Institution for Information Technology. With members in over 100 countries around the world, the BCS is the leading professional and learned society in the field of computers and information systems. For details mail Tanya Gray: tgra@ceh.ac.uk www.swindonbcs.co.uk

0 ui • 1 a A minimum of 1 % of the Society's profits

This photo of children at Dihlabeng School in South Africa performing a gum boot dance - which appeared in a story about the developing contact between Peatmoor Primary and Dihlabeng schools in the September 2002 Link - was found at www.swindonlink.com by an educational publisher in South Africa.

They approached us about using the image, taken by Peatmoor headteacher Terri Peacock, in a book about dance in education. She agreed and we arranged for a donation to be made to Dihlabeng School.

Where IT people get together

BUSINESS WEBSITES

If you think a project you know of could

s

0

Software & Hardware Install

Is your PC bugging you?

Community Dividend Scheme.

Connection for schools through website

terConsuttancy Compu Repairs, Servicing & Upgrades °o

Cash or cheque. Delivery/installation extra

Call Milton Computers: 08701 454 353

South Africa to UK to South Africa

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Voluntary organisations in the Haydon Wick area can benefit from a special fund operated by the Community Foundation for Wiltshire and Swindon.

The panel of local residents who determine applications meets twice a year and at their August meeting approved grants from £2,000 to £200 to the 1st Swindon Sea Scouts, based in Haydon Wick High Street, Greenmeadow Brownies, Greenmeadow Youth Football Club, Busy Fingers mother and toddler group, and the Family Mediation Centre who will train mediators to involve children in the mediation process.

The panel distributes £6,000 each year and wants groups from the North Swindon area to apply. The next closing date for applications is 2 December. For details call Jenny Wildblood on 01380 729284.

21

SWINDON & CRICKLADE RAILWAY Murder Mystery Evening Saturday 3rd September Ti cket only event. £12 inc buffet.

Call 692588

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

New life at the Wyvern

Wartime Weekend

The launch of Wvyern Theatre's Autumn season is the first full programme put together by the new tenants Hethrington-Sellig Theatres, who took over last year. And they're breaking new ground to bring back audiences of all ages and interests.

There's comedy, music. tradi- tre and venues all over Britain.

Puppetry of the Penis, and there is tion and of course the panto Peter The/mportanceofBeingErnest-7 a very good reason to pick up the Pan, which promises to be spec- October. This is seriously funny. Wyvern Theatre programme. tacular. Central to the programme intelligent theatre by Time Out Discover what's happening in is Alive: Drama for the 21st Cen- AwardwinnersRidiculusmous.two pro- Swindon. tury with innovative but accessible brilliant actors directed by high New cafe at he and exciting theatre. file director Jude Kelly. top of town Victoria Kearns, marketing di- Mo//F/anders.3to4October.ScanActor Steven Finder, star of this rector, believes there is a recep- dal, saucery and debauchery reyear's Wyvern panto, opens and ti veaudienceoutthere. "Manypeo- counting a woman's journey names the theatre's new ground pie have told us that Swindon through poverty, prostitution, pick fl oor cafe on Wednesday 7 Sepdoesn't do theatre. We think there pocketing and penitence performed tember. 1 1 am.

Win free coffee for a year by coming up with a name for the cafe. Mail jane@wyverntheatre

.org.uk with suggestions or call 535534.

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September, 10.30am - 5pm

Trains also run

NORTH SWINDON

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during the school holidays and on Sundays, 11 am - 4pm Cafe, shop and free parking www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

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Blunsdon

Station Tadpole Lane Tel: 771615

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stroll through the deep, dark wood... . W -,.....-. . ,

he Gruffalo

Breaking the barriers. Thirty dancers over 14 from Swindon are wanted to work with street dancers Banxy and Kwesi to perform a curtain raiser show on the Wyvern stage on Wednesday 14 September. Rehearsals take p/ace between 9 and 14 September For audition details ca// the theatre on 535534 by2 September. The cost is £5 which includes a ticket to Banxy and Kwesi s show on 14 September.

Tickets for the evening cost £f0 and £ 12 from the box office on 524481. are people who want to see new and fresh productions, it's just that they go to Bath. Oxford or Newbury.

So rather than going elsewhere for entertainment, we're bringing it to Swindon."

The shows include: The Winter's Tale by Wiliam Shakespeare.-7 to 10 September. performed by Propeller, the UK's only all male ensemble company which has won international acclaim and has had two shows in the West End. The Gruffalo; 8 to 11 September.

Based on the bestselling children's books by Julia Donaldson, theshow sold out at London's National Thea-

by Kaos.

Along the way there are great comedians like Lee Evans, Pam Ayres. Ardal O'Hanlon. Jo Brand, and Britain's only kids' comedian James Campbell.

Musical offerings include a tribute to Frank Sinatra and Tamla Motown. Matt Monro. Dusty Springfield and the Stones.

Thro w n English Yo th Ballet broadcaster Sheriden Morley, Swindon Pegasus Brass, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, songs from the shows. the Mar-' riage in Figaro sung in English and some Aussies doing amazing things with the manhood in the

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Tickets £9 Family ticket c (2 adults+2 children) £27

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sawnory

Family ticket (1 adult+2 children) £18

Box Office: 01793 524481 '`=

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22

Swiodol Wide Steaming away

Line Dance

with

A Hawksworth pannier tank engine 9466 will be in steam at the fifth Swindon Railway Convention at the Steam Museum on 17 and 18 September. See the back page for event details.

Steam have just launched a brand new guide book, full of o/d photographs and facts abouthowSwindon became an industries/powerhouse Left Steam guide Kevin Shurmer from Toothi// ho/ding the new guide

Midnight Cowboys

Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00

Wartime weekend at the railway

Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Swindon and Cricklade Railway Society marks the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II on Battle of Britain weekend, 10 and 11 September.

Fifty military vehicles will be on hand, including two heavy tanks.

There will be two battle re-enactments on each day and a chance to talk to members of the Luftwaffe Society. Organisers hope there will be a fly past by World War II aircraft.

Music, fairground rides and trade stands, and of course steam train rides, are all promised for the weekend.

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

Feel good with Micro-Musicals It's 1963. Beatlemania was born, the Profumo affair scandalised Britain, the Great Train Robbers snatched £2.6m ... and Cliff Richard and the Shadows took off on a jaunt across Europe, in the feel-good film Summer Holiday.

Those heady days will be recreated by Swindon theatregroup Micro Musicals in a new stage version of Summer Holiday at the Arts Centre on 8 to 10 September.

Call the Arts Centre on 435343 for ticket details.

Over 2,500 sq. ft. of products for the Artist, Crafter and Student D.M.C. Main Agency Daylight Lamps Stockist Picture Framing DIY Framing Supplies Well worth a visit. Try us!

Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel/Fax: (01793) 513069 Phone for directions. Parking.

www.micromusicals.co.uk

Studley Grange rden & leisure park

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Open daily Summer: 1 Oam - 6pm Winter : Sam - dusk Season tickets available - Full di.

Tailored educational visits - Gri Large gift shop - Free parking I

Tel:01793 852400 info A FAMILY DAY OUT THATS FULL OF INTERErt

full useable.

Tel 01793849372

erris photographics studio natural contemporary family childrensportraits.

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Pain+ rauys, places a ndy bowls+he+ are

A GREAT VENUE FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES.

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The fantastic Robert Lamberti ' — A — / as George Michael, winner of Granada's `Stars in Their Eyes' together with a 4 course candle-lit dinner.

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Butterfly World Studley Grange Garden and Leisure Park, Hay Lane, Swindon, SN4 901.

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\-lq3 12\701 Best Western Premier

Blunsdon House Hotel generations of exceptional service

www.blunsdonhouse.co.uk

23

Swindon Wide Seaside theme

On a wing so fine

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Artist Roy Lang wil be demonstrating seascape painting in oil at a Highworth Artists' Society open afternoon on Tuesday 13 September. from 2pm.

For more details call Maureen Barnes on 339859

rw+^

Friday 9th September - 70's Disco Night r

3 cou se dinner, dancing to Top Itat Disco, £20. 0 0 per person

Ridge

Abbey Meads

Visit our new non-smoking airconditioned conservatory restaurant.

Friday 23rd September - Wines of the World Dinner Friday 30th September - Millionaires Night Enjoy a 3 course dinner & play the casino tables, £30 per person

Join 11% for some good fun, good . food rrnrl grdut entertuinntenf!

rwhen was the last time you visited The Nine Elms Pub?

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• Childrens nienu liill ^" IIII • Buffet

Teams of up to 6 people, 2 course bullet, winners prize, £15.00 per person 4 course gourmet meal, talk on %Ines throughout dinner, £37.50 per person

• A Is carte & traditional

An explosion of extraordinary butterflies is taking place at Studley Grange Butterfly World. particularly the amazing Glass Wing ( GretaOto) which originates from Mexico.

They appear to fly on nothing because their wings are so fine that you can see right through them.

Next time you visit Studley Grange look for these creatures flying from dawn to dusk, along with much larger butterflies fluttering in the tropical heat.

Friday 16th September - Quiz Night

St Andrew's

illi^^

Do you know

• Sunday lunches: l\vo courses only £6.99

where we are in West Swindon?

• Party bookings up to 60 people • Conferences catered for

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Drop in or call

for more information and to view our new menu or call :

01793 728636

01793 770442

Sunday to Thursday

7 days a week

Fridays & Saturdays

£15 per person

Children under 10 half price

£1 8 per person

You can choose ,.etwe(-, . over 100 c4. hes so go for it — see how much you can eat.

11-12A Theatre Square, Swindon. Tel 01793 523570 Full menu at www.rendezvous-group.co.uk Reserve a table now to avoid disappointment 20% off all takeawav collections

RESERVE A TABLE FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY (parties of 6 or more) and the birthday boy/girl eats for free (For example 5 pay and 1 eats for free) Only valid on all you can eat or any set dinner

I. D. WILL BE REQUIRED

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A warm welcome awaits you

Valid until end of September 2005 Please present this voucher before you order,

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24

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Passion for the arts on display at West library A spectacular collection of work by children at Moredon Junior School and Hreod Parkway School, exhibited during the last week of term will be on display at the West Swindon Library in September.

A30,000 grant from Arts Council England South West allowed the children at both schools to work throughout the Spring with professional artists Toni Robinson and Gordon Dickinson of 'No Added

Sugar' and Artsmad.

The project aimed to build links between the primary and secondary school, share artistic knowledge and involve pupils in groups making large sculpture pieces, as well as individual sculptures and paintings.

Toni Robinson said that Spanish artist Antonio Gaudi. famous

for his art and architecture in Bar-

Some of the young artists at Moredon Juniors show off their work with the Mayor of Swindon

celona, was used as the guiding inspiration for the project. "We set out to broaden children's appreciation of the links between art, sculpture and architecture: to get them thinking about their environment and how they could express themselves in their art."

The exhibition contains over 200 pieces from highly abstract paintings to stick figurines and small

and from left, Gordon Dickinson, Swindon Council arts manager He /en Miah. Toni Robinson.

Moredon head Lauren Conner, sculptor Judy Boyt claimed sculptorJudy Boyt passed on some of her experiences in a two day visit to the project.

Moredon Juniors headteacher Lauren Conner said the art project

had made a significant impact. "Attendance figures went up, many more children engaged in answering questions, speaking and lis-

plaster pieces. Internationally ac-

S AS`

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tening. there was a reduction in play time incidents and a major improvement in the quality of work - in all subject areas as well as the arts.

"By the end of term we were all shattered, but thrilled and proud of the children.They loved showing their parents round the exhibition.

We would do it all again in a flash."

The Mayor of Swindon Ray Fisher, visiting the exhibition, said, "the young people and their work are great individually; together they're fantastic."

The exhibition can be seen during normal opening hours at West Swindon Library.

25

Swindon wide

11111111111111 UlfihlillI

WRAG BARN Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ

41

Tel: 01 793 86132 7 Fax: 01793 861325 Email: info@wragbarn.com www.wragbarn.com ,!• ,' t Wrag Barn are pleased to announce that we now have the licence to perform Civil Weddings.

• Naming Ceremonies, Renewal of Marriage Vows and Commitment Ceremonies

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Log on and register to our new interactive website.

View the latest news and receive updates on all future events

Special Events Wrag Barn invite you to join us on Saturday 29th October for 'blood & mayhem' Hall( , zreen Murder Mystery £22.50 ph - includes 3 corpse meal

k

Christmas Parties Haze porr booked your private or corporate Christmas Lunch or party night? 1 4'rag Barn have afew dates available, so don't delay hook today

y

Sunday Carvery Lunch

Co ne and enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carver)' Luncb.

Service commences at 12 rroon. Advance booking is advisable

Society & Company Golf Days Winter packages available from November 05• - March 06 'Frost Bite' Coffee & Bacon Bap on czrr iz al, 18 holes & 3 Course liarnzer£30 ph `Ice Breaker' Co//ce on arrival & 2 Course Chefs Choice £25 ph

es `all you

eat' and coffee.

can for cotus cV7 0 k 513.50 (even less

Only

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B lunsdo n Ho use Hotel generations of exceptional service

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07[ental 7470ma (Thai & e hine g e `71 egta u^ant Exquisite cuisine from the Far East

Fully licenced • Air conditioning • Parties welcome Opening hours: 12 noon to 2.15pm & 5.30pm to 11.3 7 days a week Booking highly recommended

Tel: 01793 854545 01793 840600 50 High Street, Wootton Bassett

Need an office or workshop?

Visit the Basepoint Business Centre at the end of Rivermead Drive (behind the old Renault building)

Business units to let from £99pw inc.

Simple, flexible terms Stay as long as you like

Where small busi Two major problems when setting up a business are finding the righ

premises and the financial commitment you have to make.

These issues are confronted directly at the Basepoint Business Centre in West Swindon. Office rents start at £99 perweek and they

up to seven or eight people.

A visit to Basepoint is essentia for anybody considering settinc up or thinking about relocating ar

are offered on 'easy in easy out'

existing operation. For detail,

two week licence agreements. Included in the price are rates, external repairs, heat, light, power, service charges and on-site management. Telecoms and broadband are provided at competitive prices Basepoint offers light industrial space and workshops currently being occupied by a diverse range of businesses - a home ironing

contact Gill Harding or Alisor Young on 0800 6341088 or drop in during the week.

, Y'^

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service, mobile caterers, a build ing company and a geological

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laboratory.

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In the main building are a range of offices, suitable for a one person operation through to busi nesses requiring desk space for

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Well placed The January opening of Ba sepoint came just at the right time for Prior Vale resident Sam Allen.

Only two weeks notice when you go

His marketing communications agency E evations had outgrown its premises an

Basepoint was ideal, close to home an

2

three of his biggest clients - Bloor Homef Accord Office Supplies and the Prior Vale consortium.

Sam says. "as graphic designers ww create advertising campaigns and sale literature, alongside website design, copy writing and public relations. Apart fror excellent, accessible office facilities, w, required reliable communication technolc gies. Its all here at Basepoint."

Basepoint Rivermead Drive, Westlea, Swindon

Tel: 0800 6341088 E-mail: swindon@basepoint.co.uk

From North Swindon West

Fitness

Swindon

First n

Basepont

OF HSpectrum (formerly

Hair and grooming When Denise Jones came to The Links Basepoint office to place an advertisement for a mobile dog grooming salon, we suggested she investigate setting up at Basepoint. Overnight her plan changed and Hair of the Dog has been buzzing since her first advert appeared in August's edition.

A couple of weeks later Denise's friend Sue Saunders decided to set up a family hairdressing salon Just Hair. which is also ideal for staff at nearby employment areas.

4 /

' Renault

The new, frierndly local hairdresser for all the family

•

• Men's grooming a speciality 25% discount for Seniors • Free parking and easy access for disabled

Now open at 76 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, West Swindon Behind the Spectrum building (former Renault HQ) For enquiries or an appointment call Sue on 01793 6088 44

sses can grow and flourish

ENER "

deal for expansion asepoint opened just at the rigth ime for Vivienne Hallett, r/ghtas

and Basepoint was an ideal locati on, close to where my staff live.

er home in Shaw was literally ursting with the success of her HO tele - marketing, lead generaion and event follow-up company.

We specialised in IT companies hat could not support a sales force, or had the time to market prodcts efficiently. Now we support

"The offices have a very professional image which presents our company well. It's really easy for clients to find and the on-site meeting room is an ideal venue to close

deals."

Basepoi nt's easy terms were also

a major attraction, as well as the

7

arketing campaigns for a range f small businesses and blue chip li ents in many fields.

"We just had to find premises

varied office sizes which give options for future business expansion or reduction in response to market conditions.

Su Bhagi Bsc (Hons) Lie Ac A Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and Reiki sc Treatments for: headaches/migraines gastrointestinal conditions muscular - skeletal stress/emotional menstrual problems, and many more =0, Reduced Acupuncture rates

for a limited period For further details or an questions, ple as e contact me on

01793 608776 42 Basepoint Business Centre

West Swindon

ducation centre at Basepoint avid and Andrea Parkinson set up their Kip cGrath education centre in February, offering rofessional tutoring in English and Maths for 6 o 16 year olds. Individual instruction and comuter based tutoring gives excellent guidance o children who are struggling, those who need

reater challenge, and also when preparing for xams. See the KipMcGrath advert onpage 16.

ifteen years of Macs

PCs together

ilton Computers have been con ecting PC and Apple users for 15

ears.

Work is carried out in clients'

remises and repairs are made in heir new workshop at Basepoint.

At Basepoint they will soon be ffering a range of training courses n Macintosh System X. Photoshop nd InDesign CS, and also Quark xpress - ideal for anybody uprading systems and needing to et up to speed with the power of hose applications.

Basepoint Business Centre Tel: 01793 608701 www.vhorg.co.uk .

omplimentary therapies on offer aving worked as a Chemical Engineer for several years u Bhagi realised that her strengths lay in communication nd helping people through complimentary therapies.

Having taken a degree at the London College of Tradiional Acupuncture, she now offers Reiki and acupuncure, the ancient healing method that uses fine needling techniques to Iter or re-balance the body's natural energy flow to promote health and ell-being. It can be used to treat a range of conditions including astrointestinal problems. headaches/migraines, insomnia, gynaecologial disorders, stress and muscular-skeletal conditions amongst others.

GR00 cING SALON

Grooming salons are not just for poodles!

Whatever shape, size or hair length, all dogs deserve a visit to Hair of the Dog Collection/delivery available, or drop your dog off in the morning and pick up in the evening.

:

74 Basepoint. Rivermead Drive, Swindon For an appointment call Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633

a

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1

^

PC & MAC SALES ON-SITE & WORKSHOP SERVICES DATA NETWORKING & SECURITY DATA STORAGE & BACK-UP INTERNET & EMAIL SERVICES

28

SwindGr Wide Whct's Media Circus Film & digital-media course or 8- 16s

28 3D animation (such as Flash or Cinema 40 'Toystory'styte animation), /ive action film, creative web design & special fx with James & Mark from evi/twinartworks. com

Saturdays 17 September to 15 October 8-10 yrs: 9.45am - 12.15pm 11-13 yrs: 12.45pm - 3.15pm 14-16 yrs: 3.45pm - 6.15pm cre8 studios, Town Hall Cost: £28.50 (Swindon Card £25.50) Booking/info: 614837. www.cre8studios.org.uk

Thursday 15th, 7.30pm Porgy & Bess. Direct from its critically acclaimed world tour comes this concert version of the original opera production featuring a stunning all American cast. £22.50. Wyvern

Music Thursday 1st, 7.30pm Both Sides of Phil Collins. A spectacular show starring Terry Clark with the most popular songs from Phil Collins' 30-year career. £15 Wyvern Friday 2nd Dionne Warwick & Friends. £25 £45 Oasis Friday 2nd, 8pm Howard Jones - Acoustic. A talented pianist as well as singer/ songwriter, Howard (aboveright)will be performing on piano and vocals in an acoustic session with guitarist Robin Boult. £16. Arts Centre

Friday 16th, 7.30pm An Evening with Sheridan Morley and Michael Law. A celebration of witty and sentimental songs and hilarious stories. £10. Wyvern Saturday 3rd, 8pm The Sinatra Era with Todd Gordon & Quartet featuring special guest saxophonist Alan Barnes. £13.

Wyvern Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th, 7.30pm Micro Musicals: Summer Holiday.

A new stage adaptation of the classic Cliff Richard musical complete with 60s hits including Bachelor Boy, Move It and The Young Ones. £7 Arts Centre Tuesday 13th, 8pm Groundhogs Rhythm Section & Chaz de Paolo. A spin off from the Groundhogs, Pete Cruikshank (bass) and Ken Pustelnik (drums) are joined

by Chaz De Paolo (guitar and vocals), a member of the New York Jazz and Blues Society. £10. Arts Centre Wednesday 14th, 7.45pm Breakin' Out created by Kwesi Johnson and Banxy Banks plus 30 local hip hop dancers. See story on page 21. £12 Wyvern

Saturday 17th, 7.30pm Those Kentwood Kids: Showtime.

The junior section of Kentwood offer an evening of excellent entertainment to raise money for The Arts Centre. £8 Arts Centre

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road.

Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Steam - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Oasis Leisure Centre Box Office: 445401 Science Museum Wroughton.

Tel: 846200 Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date. tirne and price with the venue

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

For great

gift idea

& Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns Well also glad1v order an y thin g; else y ou need.

Dols houses t miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items In the Stable

4-

A great selection of local pottery.

Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden

1 .:.t

Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world

Mon to Sat 10 to 5 • Sun 11105

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29

Or in ^Serterrmber Tuesday 20th, 7.30pm Theatre The Motown Show. The Four To s p and The Temptations plus many Wednesday 7th to Saturday 10th, more, starring Viscount Oliver Miller 7.30pm & Thursday 2.30pm andAAmericanDream.£14.Wyvern The Winter's Tale. One of Shakespeare's finest plays featuring Sunday 25th, 7pm The Les Bruce Big Band Charity tragedy, comedy, romance and Concert in aid of The Green Hut mystery. A Watermill Theatre (Gorse Hill) which provides care and production by Propeller. Eves £16, support for the homeless, un- matinee £12. Wyvern employed and those in need. £7 to Friday 16th, 7.30pm book ca// 692903. Arts Centre Monday 26th, 8pm Bellowhead. The new 'big' band of John Spiers and Jon Boden, ten piece Bellowhead deliver a spectacle of energy, brilliance, and flurry of inventive arrangements.. £15 Arts Centre Tuesday 27th, 7.30pm The Hollies - as popular today as they were in the 60s. £19.50. Wyvern Thursday 29th, 8pm Bournemouth Symphony Or-- A String of Pearls: As One chestra. Schubert: Symphony No 8 Productions relive the war years with in B Minor (unfinished); Bruch: Violin t his evocative and nostalgic human Concerto No 2 in D Minor (un- drama. As three sisters learn about finished); Beethoven: Symphony No t heir Czechoslovakian grandmother, 3 in Bb Major. £16.50. Wyvern t hey uncover stories of women Friday 30th, 7.30pm t railblazers. home-makers, the brave Swindon Recital Series: Madeleine and the frightened - but all sharing an Mitchell and Paul Turner. One of I ndomitable spirit. £8.50. Arts Centre Britain's most celebrated violinists Tuesday 27th, 8pm performs Cesar Franck. Ravel and Casanova. In their latest comic Beethoven as well as music r eworking of a classic legend. exclusively dedicated to her,with Paul Ophaboom use hilarious, halfTurner (piano). £10. to book cat/ masked mayhem to present the story 612775 only. Arts Centre of Casanova. £10. Arts Centre

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Wedding Fayre .ice

Blunsdon House Hotel

Over 40 wedding exhibitors Free entry • Bridal competition Organise most of your wedding in one day!

25th September, 11 am - 4pm For further information visit

t ^,

www.wedding-fayre.co.uk

o' call event organisers ADP Ltd on 01793 840000

Spend £35 on any hair IH or beauty treatment and receive £5 discount

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at

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Contemporary, Funky or Traditional ... are you looking for something a little different?

Look no further th an Harmony B ri des in Devizes Road Bridal • Bridesmaids • Prom • Eveningwear • Accessories Call 01793 613000

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MARTS CENTRE

OLD TOWN

30

SWunaon Wide who's NATASHA GOSLING I NDEPENDENT HAIRSTYLIST

ARE YOU TIRED OF THE SAME OLD LOOK?

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L..-eat re ductions n selected utdoor lights

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F

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Open: Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 5.30pm Bank Holidays 10am - 4pm

F.

Children & family Dance events

Thursday 22nd to Saturday 24th,

Saturday 3rd, 10am to 5pm Forest Festival. Many activities with the theme of celebrating trees, promoting a green lifestyle and raising awareness of the Great Western Community Forest. Workshops. music, woodland crafts, alternative energy demonstrations.

Free. The Lawn. Old Town Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th, 10am to 4.30pm Snapshots of Science. The launch of the Science Museum photography competition. Free. Science Museum, Wroughton. See details on page 3 Thursday 8th, 10am; Friday 9th 10am & 2pm; Saturday 10th, 10am, 12noon & 2pm; Sunday 11th, 12noon & 2pm The Gruffalo. Join Mouse on an adventurous journey through the deep. dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation. Songs. laughs and scary fun for those aged 3 and up. Wyvern - see advert on page 21 Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th, 10.30am to 5pm Wartime Weekend. Swindon & Cricklade Railway - see advert on page 21 Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th Heritage Open Weekend. See Hichard Jefferies below right and Lydiard Park - page 33

7.30pm & Sat mat 2.30pm The Sleeping Beauty presented by English Youth Ballet and featuring up to 100 young local dancers. A sumptuous and scintillating production that highlights the magic and splendour of the triumph of good over evil. £16. 50. Wyvern Wednesday 28th, 7.30pm Lactic Acid. An electrifying fusion of dance and circus from the international company that created the spectacular Millennium Dome Show Dancers. £14. Wyvern

Male choir welcomes new members Award winning Wessex Male Choir rehearse weekly at Abbey Meads Village Church on Tuesdays, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Come along and listen, then meet members in the pub.

For details call Dave on 848668. www.wessexmalechoir.co.uk

Songsters need direction Well known Swindon's based ladies' choir TLC is in desperate need of a musical director to help them build on their considerable success across the region.

For details call Diane Lee on 873128 by 20 September.

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31

Or in S epterr► ber Film

Exhibitions

The Majestic Ballroom 2005 Reunion

Thursday 1st, 7.45pm The Assassination of Richard Nixon (15) 1 970s America: Sean Penn is compelling as an average Joe who is a failure at work and as a husband.

As he falls apart. he blames the shifty, untrustworthy President Nixon. £4.

Arts Centre

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Fabulous Fossils A special exhibition of fossils including ammonites. mammoth bones, and fossilised wood, many of them discovered in gravel pits and other sites around Swindon.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery 1940s: art for a new world As Britain commemorates the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, Swindon Art Gallery celebrates the establishment of the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art in the same years (1944 - 1945).

Re-live the danceha ll days of the 1940s to the 1960s

Monday 12th, 7.45pm

Featuring The Harold Elmey (Oxford) Big Band and The Jazz Jiants Saturday 15 October 7.30pm to midnight Stratton Community L eisure Centre, Grange Drive.

Tickets: £14 Enquires to the organising team: Brian Greenwood. Tel: 790681 Bob Lewis. Tel: 822953 Yvonne Preston. Tel: 530459

Johnnie Stiles Band at the original Majestic Ballroom with Pam Davies singing

A//proceeds to Prospect Hospice

Comedy Friday 2nd, 8pm The Improvisers with Stephen As the Hutu massacre of the Tutsi Frost. Live uncut. unscripted and unfolds, and a hotel turns into an unleashed. Featuring a surprise impromptu refugee camp, hotel celebrity guest at every performance. manager Paul Rusesabagina fights £14. Wyvern to save more than 1.000 li ves. Don Saturday 3rd, 8pm Cheadle and Sophie Okonedo were Comedy Night: You're `Avin a Larf. both Oscar nominated for their gritty A bill filled with top London based performances in this uplifting film. Black comedians including Victor, £4. Arts Centre Daniel. Amadeus. Glenda Jaxon and Wednesday 14th. 7.45pm Pingwing. £9. Arts Centre Summer of Love (15) Thursday 15th. 8pm Rite-of-passage drama about the Robert Newman: Apocalypso Now intense and unlikely friendship that or From P45 to AK47, how to grow develops between two teenage girls the economy with use of war. £12. one summer in Yorkshire. Swindon Arts Centre Film Society. Arts Centre Saturday 17th, 8pm Wednesday 28th, 7.45pm Jongleurs On The Road. The UK's Memories of Murder (15) number one comedy company is Part crime thriller, part comedy, bringing some of its hottest and most bungling police officers try to solve a popular comedians to the Wyvern, serial murder case through bullying. with compere Kevin McCarthy. Over brutality and the odd bit of detective 18s only. £10. Wyvern work. Not for the squeamish.

Thursday 29th, 8pm Subtitled (Korea,. Swindon Film Chris Addison: Atomicity.

Society. Arts Centre Celebrated la-dida smartypants and Perrier .

-0 Award nominee Monday 5th, 7pm - 9pm Chris Addison Snapshots. Is photography of presents, for inanimate objects a science or an your amusement art? What are the tricks of the trade and derision, a that can turn an average snap into a trawl through the decent photograph? A lively very fabric of the discussion on the theme universe. £10. accompanied by objects from the Arts Centre National Museum of Photography.

Film & Television. Free. Science Friday 30th, 7.30pm Richard Digance back treading the Museum, Wroug/4on boards. to make people laugh and Wednesday 21 September Tootleabrook WI. West Swindon forget about their troubles. £14.50. adventurer Lynda Thompson talks Wyvern about New Zealand with Operation Amanda Barclay & Raleigh. Newcomers welcome. For Carolyn Buckeridge details ca// Jean Brock on 539456

Flights!

at

.,

experience of a lifetime! ... Something different for someone special'

ghts from f50 for 30 minutes e e^

.ce.uk

C9IQOL I [[ COLLIS Hairdressing

c' Beauty Therapies

Talks

Heritage Open Day 11 September, 2pm - 5pm Richard Jefferies Museum Marlborough Road, Coate Also open 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month Free admission

In Concert with Something for Everyone St Mary's Church. Purton Saturday 24 September, 7.30pm Tickets: £6 concessions £4, from 814346 All proceeds to St Mary's Purton & St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze

Caroline is delighted to welcome fully qualified BeautN 'Therapist, Natasha. left. to her recently refurbished and fully air conditioned salon

3 Peatmoor Village Centre, Swindon

Tel: 01793 887800

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*

32

Swirkn Wide Lydiard restoration starts

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Parts of Lydiard Park are going to be closed to the public over the next few months as major work gets underway on the £5.2 million lottery backed project to restore the park to its former glory.

Immediate work includes excavation of Lydiard's lost lakes and building a new dam to retain the water. Project organisers apologise for the inconvenience to regular users and ask for people to stay out of the clearly marked danger zones whilst heavy equipment is on site.

The image below illustrates where the work will take place.

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CHARISMA BLINDS raltibow of colours to brighte up y our home this Autumn!

C arisma 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., Swind on. Tel: 0 1793 434584

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33

Swindon Wide No housing next to park say protestors

Heritage Open Days at Lydiard Park

An enquiry into the North Wilts Local Plan is considering developments on the borders of Swindon, including a proposal by Wimpey Homes to build between Lydiard Park and The Prinnells in West Swindon.

North Wilts councillor Mollie Groom is organising a rally at the planning enquiry in Chippenham on 7 September to get the message across to the planning inspector that Lydiard is special and there should be no more housing close to the park. For details contact her on 770544.

Free admission to Lydiard House on Saturday 10 September, 10am to 5pm and Sunday 11 September, 11 am to 5pm.

Explore the beautifully restored State Rooms full of family portraits, original furniture and furnishings with free children's quiz trail.

St Mary's Church and the famous St John Triptych will be open on Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sunday 12 to 6pm.

T shirts tell the story. North Wits MP James Grey. rear centre right, joined protestors on 16August at the threatened vale between the park and The Prinne//s

See the bottom of the lost lake on Saturday 10 September Discover the exciting changes at Lydiard following the start of restoration works in September on free site tours with a member of the project team. Childrens activities in the new BMW sponsored education centre.

On air in September Swindon Community Broadcasting which is bidding for the new commercial radio licence to cover the town will be running a four week trial from 3 to 30 September on 1 06.8fm.

Details from 520895 or mail: ianrowescb@msn.com

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34 The Link Magazine • September 2005

VACANCY Part-time Office Administrator A small, friendly West Swindon company is looking for afternoon office assistance Good telephone manner and computer experience essential.

Previous experience within Customer Services and/or accounts a distinct advantage.

Individual to be organised and able to work efficiently on own initiative

Interested? Call Michelle on 872300

Temporary Production Staff TWE

-

^^

v.=swine • ^^^^ :..'^o »

a,.' posit

; i .v force in Swindon

Producing The Link is a multi-tasking activity and we're looking for somebody to assist us build on its increasing success Initially we need a person with proven journalistic skills able to write accurately and with insight INCTJ Preliminary Certificate or similar).

The position is for up to 20 hours a month but could increase depending on the skills offered. The person we employ could be asked to take photographs, sub-edit, Layout pages and add stories to our web site Send CV by 14 September: editor@swindonlink.com

www.swindinlink.com

Farepak Food & Gifts Limited is a successful mail order company supplying hampers and gift items. The Christmas packing programme will soon commence

at our Westmead site and we have a number of temporary vacancies within our Operations Team.

Production Supervisors - Successful applicants will take charge of a hamper packing line, ensuring quality and quantity targets are met whilst controlling a team of temporary staff.

Experience in a similar role would be an advantage.

Line Fixers - Will provide support to Supervisors ensuring the hamper packing lines run smoothly.

Goods In Checkers and Goods In Clerk Applicants should be numerate, have an eye for detail and be able to work accurately and quickly under pressure.

Fork Lift Truck Operators: Reach and Counterbalance - Drivers should be experienced and hold a current FLT certificate.

Temporary Contact Centre Administrators Potential contract length of up to 5 months Farepak Food & Gifts Limited is a highly successful mail

order company supplying hampers and gift items. Due to our forth coming busy Christmas season we now have

Electric Pallet Truck Operators, Warehouse Packers & Line Feeders - No experience necessary for these positions as training will be given but applicants should be reliable, physically fit and possess good co-ordination skills.

vacancies for experienced Contact Centre Administrators.

In return we offer a competitive rate of pay and protective clothing will be provided.

Ideal applicants will have a professional telephone manner. accurate keyboard and administration skills.

Hours of work: Mondayto Thursday 8am to 5pm; Friday 8am to 2pm

together with the ability to work under pressure whilst always maintaining the highest standard of customer

service. In return they will be rewarded with a competitive rate of pay.

Hours of work are between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday

Please send your cv to: Joan Singleton Personnel & Training Manager Farepak Food & Gifts Limited Farepak House, Westmead Drive Swindon, SN5 7YZ Or e-mail it to: ioan.singleton(cDfarepak.co.uk

Or phone for an application form: 01793 606301

Please phone 01793 606301 for an application form stating which position you wish to apply for, or send your cv to: Joan Singleton, Personnel Manager Farepak Food & Gifts Limited Farepak House Westmead Drive Westlea Swindon SN5 7YZ, e-mail: joan.singleton@farepak.co.uk

The Link Magazine • September 2005 35

Town's oldest netball team asked to launch new cancer campaign Ferndale Netball Club is holding a pink netball tournament on Sunday 18 September at Greendown S chool to raise awareness of Cancer Research UKs new 'All Women Together' for a breast cancer campaign during October.

The women will be playing a up to play us in pink and we're group to help us promote the 'All and community groups to hold men's team and organising a range going to offer a prize to the pinkest Women Together' campaign and fundraising events. of pink themed events between person on the day. the club seemed ideal from The " We're also hoping lots of peo12noon and 4pm. Club coach Joy "It's going to be great fun; we Link story. ple will take part in a Walk ToBlake said team members were want lots of people to come along "Joy and her members have re- gether event on Sunday 9 October thinking up wild and wacky ideas and support the campaign." sponded fantastically and are go- at Westonbirt Arboretum." for the afternoon which will get Natasha Russell, regional com- ing to give the campaign a great For details call the hotline on people thinking about breast can- munity organiser for Cancer Re- push in Swindon."

08701 602040 or www.cancer cer and involved in organising search UK, said she approached This is the first year of the 'All researchuk.org / breastcancer their own fundraising activities. Joy after reading about her club in Women Together' campaign and Natasha would like to know of "We're challenging blokes to turn the July Link. "I was looking for a Natasha hopes individuals and fundraising events in Swindon and Joining together to promote breast cancer awareness, Ferndale netball club groups will join in during Octo- also personal experiences of canplayers, Joy Blake with Kaia Regan, Carly Regan, Jenni Allen, and team ber. "We're looking for people to cer. Call her on 0117 962 2516 or organise think pink events at work mail: natasha.russell@cancer supporters back row, Phil Bowell, John Blake Snr and John Blake and also for friends, neighbours .org.uk

www;b1ackthongcom A National Mail Order Lingerie Retailer - based in Swindon - offering something for everyone, regardless of size, shape, age, gender or budget.

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Pedalling to the jungle for property man Abbey Meads resident Mike Smithson is heading off to South Africa in October to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Over 8 days he will cover 400 miles on dirt tracks, through dense jungle, over open plains and up mountains, sleeping rough in spectacular scenery.

Mike, managing director of Swindon based web estate agent design company The Property Jungle, has been training since January and lifted his fundraising total to over £3,000 by cycling 115 miles on a very hot day at Asda Walmart on 17 July.

To sponsor Mike call 0870 246 1620 on donate online at: www.justgiving.co.uk/ mike_in_africa

Putting heart into meditation Swindon, often accused by its critics as lacking soul, is the first town outside London to offer regular classes in Heart Rhythm Meditation, an ancient practice which has been adapted to meet the needs of our time.

Through the development of the ships. By goingeven deeper into the breath and a focus on the heart, it heart, it is possible to access a probecomes possible to integrate the found sense of direction in your life. mind and the heart, the body and Local psychotherapist Heather the emotions.

Redington has been studying this Regular practice brings benefits form of meditation for the past on physical, emotional and spir- four years, and has become an acitual levels, credited teacher of the Institute of On a physical level, practice Applied Meditation. She is offerbrings a stable rhythm to the heart- ing regular classes at the Namaste beat and an increase of energy. On Yoga Studio in the Newborn Cenan emotional level, by directing tre. the power of the breath onto the Heather will be organising an heart centre, comes a sense of well introductory talk on HRM and a being and increased optimism in free class in September. For details one's self, in work and in relation- call her on 762939.

Amberte- W's Workouts introducing

PaiiilityBall A WORKOUT THAT HAS GOT TO BE TRIED!! and still only £4.00 a class Bring your own ball and improve your body posture & core stability with an aerobic wain up.

Thursdays 7 - 8 p.m.

Holy Trinity Church, Kamleaze Drive, Shaw

Full Body Conditioning Designed just for you, fat burning, body toning, improving strength & flexibility, with the help of hand weights and resistance bands (weights and bands provided) Tuesday 7 - 8 p.m.

Holy Trinity Church, Ram leaze Drive, Shaw Wednesday 7 - 8 p.m.

Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, Rodbourne

36 The Link Magazine • September 2005

i Streamlined slimmer meets Street star

HEART RHYTHM MEDITATION

PAMPER YOURSELF!

For your physical, emotional and spiritual heart health

a Shlatsu is a fully clothed healing Japanese massage.

Discover this deeply relaxing experience.

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For details of an introductory

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A year ago Coronation Street's Debra Stephenson would not have been able to put her arms round Giles Smith from Toothill. tic 1761bs in just 10 But she had no months and won £500 problem at the Slimfor his incredible self"f ming World Man of discipline. In the final -s the Year semi-finals he was pipped for the .' in July when the £2,000 prize by a guy +"? _ sveldt actress, fawho lost an astonishmous for her role in ing 238lbs.

Comic Relief's Fame Giles attends a SlimAcademy earlier this ming World group in year,wasabletogive Toothill run by Sharon Toothill's super Painter. For details call t slimmer a hug. her on 527332. ' Giles lost a fantas-

.\

Tennis day for juniors CHERRI ANN MATTHEWS II HHT FICHTATLM Full-time Qualified Holistic Therapist/Lecturer, Reiki Master/Teacher and t:uotional Freedom Technique Practitioner ,

Treatments in Reflexology, Reiki, Hopi Ear Candling and EFT (Banish fears, phobias, addictions and mental/ emotional blocks holding you back with EFT) Reiki 1,11 and Master Degree Courses.

Workshops in EFT, Meditation and 'Coping with Stress'. Gift Certificates available.

Free Initial Consultation °.

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

Wake up to the great i Outdoors!

Former Great Britain Davis Cup player Mark Cox visited the Delta Tennis Centre on 10 August to promote the Wilson sponsorship of the centre.

He also played 20 tie breaks with members of Swindon Tennis Club for well over two hours.

Delta are running a junior open day on Saturday 17 September, fpm to 3pm. To book a place call 445555.

Right, Nathan Gret/ about to lilt with Mark Cox

Disagreement Cairn Clarke contacted The Link after our August story mentioned her daughter Lucy Roze as a successful Delta user.

Thirteen year old Lucy is a National Future's player and needs up to 20 hours court time weekly.

But because of Delta court costs she can only go there for three hours a week. Cairn says it would cost £200 a week to pay for Lucy's court time at the centre.

She said, "Swindon Council offers no financial assistance, grants

or concessions on indoor court prices for junior performance players who are following a comprehensive tennis programme. Without the support of the LTA, The Cliff Richard Tennis Foundation and the goodwill of her coaches Lucy would have not have made it this far."

Get Active Swindon See page 39

Soccer coaching for kids

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The community team at Swindon Town FC offers after school football coaching for boys and girls aged 5 to 11 years old at Link Centre on Mondays and Thursdays and at Haydon Centre on Thursdays.

The sessions are for beginners and youngsters who want fun developing skills. The team are very keen for more girls to join in.

The cost is £3.10 per session with concessions for SwindonCard holders. Drop into Link and Haydon Centres to book.

SunnCamp

Achieve Success PILATES CLASSES ShawVillage Hall Mon: 6 - 7pm; Wed: 7.30 - 8.30pm Prime Bodies Gym Tues: 10- I I am Haydon Wick Tues 8- 9pm IYC, Old Shaw LaneThurs: 9.30 - 10.30am & 6.30 - 7.30pm (both Beginners) YOGA CLASSES Haydon Wick Mon: 7.30 - 8.30pm (Beginners) Greendown School Tues: 8 - 9.15pm; Fri: 7.30 - 8.45pm IYC, Old Shaw Lane Wed: 12.30 - I.30pm (Beginners) CrickladeTown Hall Mon: 7.30 - 8.30pm; Thurs: I - 2pm

i i i i

The Link Magazine • September 2005 37

HOMEOPATHY & REIKI Safe and effective Complementary Medicine Pam Howells LBSH MARH Best of Health. Wootton Bassett 01793 739199

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Sports / Remedial Massage Hot Stone Therapy Massage Aromatherapy Indian Head Massage Beauty therapy treatments Ear Candling Gift Vouchers & Pamper parties Hands of I hyme www.handsofthyme.co.uk tel:01793 877447

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Tuesday: a & Spm Abbey Meads School Paula. 701442 Tuesday: 10am, 5pm & 6.30pm Toothill Community Centre.

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38 The Link Magazine • September 2005

Off sick? Receiving benefits? Returning to work?

1:1

For the last three years Swindon Jobcentre and Social Security Office have been running a joint project helping customers who are thinking of returning to employment, get back to work. These customers are either receiving Incapacity Benefit or Income Support as a result of sickness or disability.

One of the Specialist Incapacity Sue said one of her cusAdvisers, Sue Greenhalgh, has tomers was taken on by a been working on the project since local restau rant with help it began and says that many cus- from a Job Broker. The tomers are very surprised by the management team noamount of help available to enable ticed that he had a natuamity Business_ them to return to work.

Lq ral flair and offered him • All types of fencing installed One of the easiest ways to try the opportunity to be• Full patio/decking service : work again after an absence is some- come a trainee manager.

• Made to measure gates thing called Permitted Work.

Sue said, "customers • All pressure treated timbers 1 'ird/t After obtaining permission from who have been out of • Help advice on all fencing & landscape matters Sue Grcenhalgh and Steve Warren the Social Security Office, this work for a long time can Free estimates on 01793 855800 scheme involves working up to 16 feel there is a stigma surUnit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon. Swindon hours a week and earning up to rounding their disability and they If you feel you are ready to re£78 a week. This can be done ini- lack confidence when it comes to turn to work, call 01249 425882 to tially for 26 weeks and for a further re-entering the job market. set up an appointment with a spe26 weeks with permission. Cus"But they often do not realise cialist adviser.

Sue added, "even if you are not MOBILE VEHICLE DETAILING tomers keep their benefit as well that they have abilities, skills and as their wages. There are slightly experience that far outweigh their quite ready for a return to work, Saving at least 60% different rules regarding permit- disability or health condition. We why not give us a call anyway? on body shop prices ted work for people on Income can offer customers help in pre- Early planning could be the key to Support. senting themselves in a more posi- your smooth return to work. This • Bumper repairs • Trim repairs Another scheme that helps is the tive light and are sometimes able service is purely voluntary and • Scratches • Leather repairs Job Broker programme. Job Bro- to negotiate with employers to ar- your travel expenses may be reWindscreen repairs funded." kers work closely with the Jobcen- range job interviews."

Alloy wheel refurbish tre and only deal with people who We come to you, no need have a health problem. They can to be without your vehicle Thanks from Smilemenders help with writing CVs, interview techniques, job search and give In June Swindon based charity Smilemenders delivered a refurFor FREE estimate general careers' guidance. Finan- bished mobile dental surgery to the Ukraine, a trip which was contact Fraser cial incentives and ongoing sup- reported in the July Link.

Mob: 07775 954 351 port may be available when cusRichard & Linda Swift for Smilemenders would like to thank many Tel: 01793 875468 tomers get back into work. organisations and individuals who assisted with the project. They write: most importantly the vehicle was donated by Kennet & North Wilts Primary Care Trust who owned the vehicle on behalf of Wiltshire Community Dental Service and we would particularly mention Clinical Director Sarah Thomas and Business Manager Carol Evans who ,t Electronic tuning * Welding it Electrical work made a hugh effort to secure the vehicle for Smilemenders. * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) Some welding and respraying work was necessary and this was sponsored by Domino Pizza Swindon and carried out by Steve Hill.

For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience Arosa Signs of Wroughton helped with the signwriting including (No VAT to pay) C y rillic script. Glen-Pac of Cricklade provided much needed assistance C ALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867_556350 in securely packing the heavier items of equipment.

Soroptimist International Swindon Club provided 53 shoe boxes filled with toys, clothes and toiletries for distribution to disadvantaged patients in Cherkassy Childrens' Hospital.

They also gave funds to cover fuel and accommodation costs for the E N T1IIIT111 , journey and funded some dental materials to be given to dentists in Lvov, via the Soroptimist Clubs of Ukraine. These will help provide care for children from the remote coal mining town of Sosnivka whose teeth are badly stained and who have no access to dental care locally. ^ r Our most grateful thanks go to all who helped.

CAR MEDIC

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on show THE price is right THE parking is free

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Maintenance free doors Superb security locking facilities Stockists of the largest range of spare parts in the South West of England Telephone 01793 513796 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street. Swindon email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

The Link Magazine • September 2005 39

Bus company aims to go further Thamesdown Transport moved its fleet and staff from the cramped town centre location in Corporation Street to its brand new depot at Barnfield Road on 1 August and has immediately improved performance.

The buses have their own parking areas, they can be washed and cleaned quickly and be repaired in modern, clean, fitting bays.

The new £4.8 million depot was paid for by the sale of Corporation Street which served as Swindon's tram and bus sheds for over 100 years.

Operations director David Burch said, "we can operate efficiently now.

Retrieval of spares and bus maintenance is so much easier, and we have Giving Swindon a state of the art public transport network, from left, much better training and staff rest fa- David Burch, customer services manager Jas Dosanjh, Nigel Mason, cilities on site." engineering director operations manager Graham Fox

New bus service restricts movement Thamesdown Transport's decision to re-route the Number 18 which runs from the town centre to North Swindon District Centre has annoyed a number of regular users.

The 18 now avoids West Swin- Station, to provide a quicker route This has upset people who need don by going along Mead Way, to Taw Hill, Oakhurst and Red- the connection to get to work or stopping only at Westlea Police house, bring children to school at Shaw Ridge or Brook Field.

Company operations director On your bike for church funds David Burch said the connection `.

The annual sponsored bike ride and walk in aid of the Wiltshire b etween WestandNorth Swin don Historic Churches' Fund takes place on Saturday 10 September. was not proving commercially vi Riders will be setting off at 10am from St Mary's Church in Lydiard able, bbut u route d eman d was al Park for a 19 mile tour of churches in and around Swindon, using cycle ways under review and modificaroutes and quiet roads. There will also be a childrens' ride to churches tions to services could take place in West Swindon. Take part by calling Eunice Salmon on 871606. in the future.

Pedal to the pub As part of European Mobility Week (16 - 22 September) and International Car Free Day (22 September) Sustrans want people to leave the car at home and take part in Swindon's first ever 'Pedal to the Pub' event.

The ride starts at Coate Water on Sunday 18 September, 11am and heads for The Forrester's Arms at Common Platt near Peatmoor for lunch before returning to Coate along Route 45 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, a total of about 15 miles.

If you live in North and West Swindon, set off early, meet up at Coate and return home with the mass cycling mob via the pub. For details call Ruth Baker on 535476.

Get Active in September Swindon's annual Get Active Day takes place on Wednesday 14 September. Every Swindon Council Leisure Centre will be offering free taster sessions.

For details call Fran Pound on 511033. www.swindon.gov.uk/getactiveday

Providing friendly & efficient * servicing to any make of car * engine & gearbox rebuilds * electrical repairs * brake and clutch repairs * cam belt replacement * MOT repairs * sales

AN y Mp L

MAKE OF VEHICLE SERVICED

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PARKING CENTRAL SWINDON Long stay parking from only £65.00 per month Contact Bentley Centre Tel: 01793-690600

J ; your partner in business

Don't let annoying cosmetic damage ruin the look & value of your car A fully mobile service: we visit your home or premises for a convenient, high quality repair • Paintwork scuffs and scratches • Interior trim repairs • Bumper repairs • Alloy wheel repairs

Call 07050 266325 for a free, no obligation quote www.trimlineswindon.co.uk

40 The Link Magazine • September 2005

Link brings together childhood rider and pony owner

Bioflow Magnet Technology making a difference to pain

Relieve your loved one's discomfort Many pet owners see a dramatic improvement in cats, dogs and horses suffering from a wide range of conditions and when recovering

^r

from injury or surgery.

i

A story in the June Link about Nina the donkey and Toffee the pony who live at the entrance to Lydiard Park delighted mother of two Natasha Moore, nee Walklet, from Shaw.

She wrote to The Link to say that my children with an apple or caras a girl she and Toffee were the rot." champions at gymkhanas around We brought together Natasha Purton. She was broken hearted and present owner Susie Hare from when Toffee was sold because she Grange Park who said, we know the same people who look after had grown too big to ride her.

Humans benefit as well.

For a brochure, call (01793) 608840

ECOFLOW werc> SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE cc

cnr(

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

L

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm Saturday

9.00am - 4.00pm

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

EVE

A MEADS gi VETERI> Y SURGP

Abbeymeads Village Centre, Elstree Way, Abbeymeads, Swindon. Tel: 01793 728728

•

(Opening hours: Mon-Fri: gam-6. 3 Opm Saturday: 12 noon-3pm Consulting hours by appointment: Mon-F ri : 9.aun-10.30am; 3.30pm-5pm; 530pm-6.30pm: Saturday: 12 noon-3pm 24 HR EMERGE'iCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: 01793 522483

Natasha said, "Toffee and I could not be beaten; she went to a family in Oxford and I thought I would never see her again.

"When I moved into West Swindon and was out for a walk I noticed a grey pony. I was sure it was my Toffee and tested her with a trick I taught her. When you ask her to say please, she lifts a front leg.

"It was wonderful to see her again. Now I often visit Toffee with

Toff like the farrier. Toffee is now 33 and enjoying her retirement with Nina. She's such a gentle pony, but she doesn't like dogs."

Toffee and Nina are inseparable and are going to be looked after at Roves Farm when Suzie and her husband move abroad at the end of the year. In the meantime Suzie is appealing to visitors not to give the animals grass cuttings as it will make them very ill.

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home?

PETS AT HOME

I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals.

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

Pets At Home could be your answer

Whether you're away on holiday or just out at work all day, I can teed, walk and care for your per service tailored to suit your needs.

For more details phone Carole on

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 873062

01793 702098

sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk

The Link Magazine • September 2005 41

All about trees and the outdoors End the Summer holidays on a high at a great event for the whole family - the Forest Festival on Saturday 3 September.

The free festival is returning for the seventh year to the

sunny - fingers firmly crossed parkland of the Lawn, Old Town. This year's event is shag- ' ing up to be the best yet packed with stalls, workshops and performances.

Forest Festival is about cel ebrating trees and their products, promoting a greener lifestyle and finding out more about the Great Western Corn- ' munity Forest project.

In amongst local basket weavers, wood turners and furniture makers you'll meet storytellers and mask makers. Amongst Fair Trade stalls, recycling projects and solar powered equipment, you can make metallic forest bugs, join a drumming or juggling workshop. And all this to the sounds of folk, blues and world music on the bicycle powered main stage.

Great Western Community Forest Festival Organiser, Heather Lilley, said, "this year we have developed closer links with local communities to bring some original ideas and performance. We're also really excited to have live music from Laye Sow who blends Afro-Arab rhythms and blues from

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Senegal. His voice and guitar has wowed the crowds at Glastonbury, Womad and the Royal Festival Hall."

The Forest Cafe will be serving a mouthwatering mix of locally producedorganicrefreshmentssoyou can stay all day. There will be a free Park and Ride bus service operating throughout the day fr om the Nationwide Building Society car park in Pipers Way. The festival is sponsored by Nationwide Building Society, the ForestryCommission'sForestEducation Initiative and the Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-operative Society.

Details from 466324. www.forestweb.org.uk

STEVE JEANS Lawn &

Would you like to get more from your garden ?

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42 The Link Magazine • September 200 5 DAVID HAWKINS

Competition for green fingered Haydon gardeners

Chelworth

TREE SURGEON

Haydon Wick Parish Council is in the process of planning a best kept

Landscapes

garden competition for 2006 in three categories — front gardens,

All types of tree services and landscaping

Fencin , F & Ga rden Maintenance

Hedge cutting

C/oseboard tre///c, pane/s. picket chain/ink. security etc

• Fencing and gates

Turfing • Fencing

leisure gardens and hanging baskets and containers.

It is hoped that a trophy and prizes will be presented to the most highly praised.

The event is in the early stages of planning and the council would be interested in any ideas. Call the parish office on 722724.

• Landscaping Shing/e, paving, water features. turfing and p/anting

Fruit tree pruning

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LANDSERVE

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S

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or Mobile 07771 956294

GARDEN S ER ^j^

N

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on 1)1793 703306

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O Decorative Aggregates O Ornamental Fencine

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GREENHILL OBLACKFORDS FROM ^, WOOTTON BASSETT

FROM LYDIARD MILLICENT

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GREENHILL. GREATFIELD, WOOTTON BASSETT, SWINDON

Suppliers of easy to assemble Jungle Gym playhouses in a great range of sizes and modules

Saturday: 9am - 5pm VISA

The Link Magazine • September 2005 43

River Ray restoration scheme SueLynn involves public during the Autumn A fascinating project to put the bends back into the River Ray and Partners improve the environment close to West Swindon goes public in September when work is started on clearing scrub and trees next to the pedestrian bridge over the Ray between Westlea and Barnfield and you can get involved to make it a success.

The August Link re ^^s , u pv ^ i^ ^ ^^iJ ported on completion of y the first phase of the to ^^^^' r3 phi' work within the Thames ;• Water compound at o f Barnfield Road, where j " r new routes for the prev> <^ `;•'' :I^^ ously canalised river g'^^tt ,'^;, j , +^.,^~ .+^ havebeendu andbank i profiles, backwaters and . shallows created to en- Jo with Andrew and Andrea Downing, collecting courage a wider range of seeds to be scattered along the riverbank next Spring fish, insect and mammal li ke Costa del Swindon. With the life.

Jo Sawyer, Wiltshire Wildlife trees out of the way there will be a Trust waterways project officer, huge open area on either side of said contractors will dig a new the flood plain. From the bridge channel for the river. "To the north and new walkways through the of the foot bridge the river will be trees on the banks, you will see taken in a wide bend through the butter fl ies, dragonf li es, perhaps a meadow and two large ponds will water vole and if you're lucky an be dug. Trees will be removed from otter. It will be a fantastic evolving the middle of the site and those on environmentwithinamileofSwinthe edge thinned out. Earth bank- don town centre." ing will be removed to make a The River Ray project is managed larger flood plain.

by Wiltshire WildlifeTrustandspon"To the south, next year, we're sored by the Environment Agency, planning a wide shingle beach Thames Water, Biffaward and Hills where people can paddle; it will be Waste, and Swindon Council.

For a Quality Installation

For tailor made Curtains Swags & tails Pelmets Roman blinds

M, FA 11

Measuring and fitting advice For further information call

Foi lice & friendly advice on our full range of Gutter/Fascia systems professionally installed and guaranteed. call

Sue: 01793 870451

Swindon 855700 / 855800

or Lynn: on 01793 330595

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We an flats, houses, offices and commercial property

yr)

Reasonable rates, satisfaction guaranteed For inquiries and free quotations, please call JAC's Cleaning Services k Tel: 01793 634464 Mobile: 07903 857593 e: jacinsa@ntlworld.com

Get involved in the River Ray restoration Launching on Thursday 1 September, 11am, then every 2nd Thursday

Join the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust practical mid-week conservation group to cut back trees on the edge of the river, replant shrubs and create a gradual grading from grassland to mature woodland. Full training and supervision provided.

Give a couple of hours or stay for the day. Tea, coffee and biscuits supplied, bring a packed lunch and wear old clothes and stout shoes.

Later in the project volunteers will build a pathway which lead to wildlife viewing areas over the newly restored river and its floodplain.

Future events will include wildflower planting, coppice work and hedge laying. Full details from Swindon Wildlife Officer Neil Pullen on 526228 or mail: neilp@wiltshirewildlife.org

_

^Il►

Don't get caught by Millenium or Formpave Swindon Council Trading Standards officers are warning people not to deal with rogue businesses called Millenium Block Paving' or 'Formpave.'

Swindon County Court has issued an injunction ordering them to stop carrying out work to a poor standard.

J$

However there is a legimate Gloucester based firm trading under the name Formpave which has no connection with this court action.

Past Millenium Block Paving and Formpave customers are asked to contact Swindon Council Trading Standards on 466155. Free legal advice is available on consumer rights, with tips on dealing with traders.

COMPETITIVE

Cash reward for return of stolen bike

PRICES 'OPEN 7 D.A.IS

Craig Arnold, 13, from Middleleaze is desperate to get his motorbike back.

The Jincheng TTX150 offroad trailbike. ,pictured right, was stolen from the garage of his Fenland Close home on 8 August. A £400 reward is offered for its return; no questions

r

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45

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20' fascia board fitted £ 60 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 20' fascia. soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication)

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Contact Paul on 01793 619428 •1

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1

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. . 1

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46

BATHROOMS

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HEATING & PLUMBINGI

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

RJ PEARCE

ROB HALL

or 07900 835116

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

& PLUMBING

Central heating Bathrooms & showers Competitive

HEATING & PLUMBING All gas appliances serviced. repaired & installed Warm air unit service, repair & installation

CALL 01793 522579

J Landlord/moving house safety inspections 7 Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken Central heating systems flushed (powerflush)

J Hot water systems descaled

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call Richard on 01793 879156

N

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SERVICES

rates • All work guaranteed

1

HEATING, GAS

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wise plan sandra wisemati drawn for extensions and

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change of use for a professional & fri endly service call

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consultation

for a free no obligation

GLAZING

Windows of Swindonn

Professional

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

Call Andy: 01793 729354

G_

DO UB LE

Taylor _3

0777 5840236 or 321981

or 0774 7

Telephone/fax: 017 93 874807

Tel: 01793 7272

Personal one-to-one service Laminate flooring

•

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

painter and decorator

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•

Roofing £t building maintenance

Complete professional service.

20 years experience Fully insured tradesmen Free estimates

interior/exterior

Wallpaper

•

and guttering

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Paul Comer

Interior/exterior painting and decorating

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

Planning to installation

Reg. 67416

PLASTERING

Brian Jones

British Gas trained

Tel: 7224 49

Reg:202015

• Mob: 07956 410982

PLUMBING & H EATIN G Professional & Reliable

* Coving

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* Re-skimming Dry lining

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

•

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

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CARPEN TRY D&11^ Carpentry O Fitted bedrooms and kitchens O Replacement doors & staircases O Laminate floors O Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted

CARPENTRY

O'SULLIVAN • Fitted kitchens & bedrooms *: Wood and laminate flooring - Loft conversions Doors & windows Stairs

r Specialising in shop fitting All carpentry work undertaken

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For a p rofessional finish telephone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

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ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICIAN

Dave Ody

SAFE & SHAW

M.D. ELECTRICAL SERVICES

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

Free quotes

ELECTRICAL SERVICES 3 EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS 3 SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS 3 GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS 3 SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED 3 FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT 3 COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

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•

•

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TEL: 01793 876029

+.ww.nagtw&uk

HOME MAINTENAN CE

P

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HOUSE/GARDEN

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MAINTENANCE

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Painting and decorating Floor & wall tiling

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 All garden work Building Concreting paths Guttering and

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883717

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DECORATOR

JAMES

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook

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Patio repairs Patio jet wash Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

fascia All carpentry External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs Toilets. wash basins, bath taps. overflows repaired or replaced ALL WORK GUARANTEED. FULLY INSURED

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PLUMBING

PLUMBING

TILING

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Tower Plumbing Heaflng Services

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GILES BROS

l)OC rl'OR GLASS

CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS

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30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

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Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353

Mobile: 07963 953439 215153 E-mail: towerplumbheat@aol.com

G Plumbing Services for all your domestic plumbing needs: leaks, burst pipes, radiators, immersions, hot water cylinders, taps, toilets, tanks, ball valves and bathroom 0 installations.

Call 0 1793 524200

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793

520526

Also hinges

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48

SERVICE

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE

Services •

TV/FM/DAB aerials Extra satellite point s • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Noticed Signal amplifiers •

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or 07774 943 783

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BIN LINERS

ATTENTION WEST SWINDON!

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BIN LINERS TAKE THE HASSLE OUT OF BIN CLEANING Let your local bin cleaning service clean and disinfect it at a very reasonable cost of: Monthly clean £2 per bin (discount for 6 or 13 pre-paid cleans) Special rates for senior citizens

Tel: 01793 632863 COMPUTER SUPP

Consultancy Installation Support

email: bincleaned@aol.com

COMPUTER SUPPOR'

Computer/ Laptop repairs Virus removal etc.

Laser printer maintenance

25 liners only £7

Free delivery Tel: 01793

611198 COMPUTER SUPPOR

tolmidWinter Computer Services • Specialising in domestic user home visits • Virus Protection/Removal • PC and Server Health Checks

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Just call Brightwater Systems Ltd www.brightwatersystems.co.uk

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01793 850050

REMOVALS & STORAGE

REMOVALS & STORAGE

• Website Design and Implementation

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BOOK-KEEPING Can't face

doing the books after a hard day's work Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

GLASS & GLAZING

Your local glass service Mirrors, glass shelves, table tops, sandblasting, etc.

Misted double glazing units replaced

Toughened and safety gl as s Glass cut to size - while you unit Est. 26 years • Showroom enquiries welcome

Hardware Procurement • Networking Solutions/Troubleshooting

Woo tt on Bassett. Est 1988

REMOVALS

ABBEY Ag y

MOVE

AERIAL SERVICES

AERIALS

interference lately? Tetra filters fitted

All work Guaranteed Call Neil Provis on

AERIAL SERVICES

y

SECURITY

smolt

REGI ST ERED niemtier

SECURITY SYSTEMS

1;33"! •^dC^FA

VAAV

o* TEL: 01793 772888I—.

First Class Removal & Storage Solutions • Quality removals & storage • Single items to full house moves • Complete packing service • Sales & supplies of packaging • Piano removal specialists • A free quotation/fully insured

THE MAN WITH A VAN

0800 019 5037

Tel: 01793 772888

www.abbeymove.co.uk

Emai l: ashgroupl @btinternet.com

• • • •

Mobile: 07762 645296

STORAGE TRANSPORT er W,

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wir

Tel: 01793 706806

(Est 1993) 24hrs - 7 days a week Single items to a full house 8 di ff erent size vehicles Disposal of unwanted items Fax: 01793 772444

Electronic Securit y Solutions INTRUDER ALARMS 0 CCTV SYSTEMS ) FIRE ALARMS J EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS J ACCESS CONTROL ()ENTRY SYSTEMS GATE AUTOMATION For a free, no obligation quotation tel: 01793 705216

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49

SECTOR AIRPORT TRAVEL

APPLIANCE RE PAI RS

AIRPORTS Connect Ltd

EMIER ectrics

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

Esf30bl ars

Guaranteed l repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

I

CARPET CLEANING

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatmcnl • Fully insured NEC • Quickly usable You'll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from vow local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Email: cliff.whiteway@btinterne t. com

Ii-

Creaseless Ironing Services One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever!

Free pick up and delivery back to your door the next day.

All items delivered on hangers and wrapped in cellophane Guaranteed animal and smoke free environment

Call Karen on 01793 822659 or 07843 690720

SECURITY SYSTEMS

security

systems ltd

Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers • CC:TV • Access Control & Intercom • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Mon twin

r r

•e

e: info@osese

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www.osesecunty.com

Washing Machines ^ Twin Tubs. etc.

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

Tel: 01793 878217

COMPUTER SUPPORT

COMPUTER

COMPUTER SUP

Computer support straight to your door

Corn Master's PC Repairs

• Virus removal & computer crashes • Recovering lost data -1 r & backing up ..I • Wireless networking o _ & broadband • Hardware upgrades & repairs • Jargon free advice and tutorials • Preventing future problems

\Vhy go am Ns here else?

When we'll come to you.....

Free horse & business visits Jargon free advice & support =i= Upgra(Ies/repairs = All parts & labour guaranteed Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

PC

• Learn many PC skills!

• I refuse to talk in "jargon" or "Gobbledegook" • Get the best from your PC • Become skilled at anything from writing letters, surfing the Web to producing photos • By convenient appointment: at your home or my office

01793 323465

Free callout, low cost, no job too small!

Mobile: 07971 807671

Phone free: 0800 916 9341

OVEN CLEANING

X—P .

.

A premier ironing dry cleaning, handwashing & shi rt service Free collection and delivery (home or office)

Tel: 01793 617200 or 07748 588210

EN :LEAN The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service I

i

r1p

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0798 002 5590 •

D.noson

REMOVALS

WHITE VAN MAN ro

Single items moved y an where in Swindon for £20

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

Disposal of unwanted items House clearance

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

Long/short distance Call for it free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07780 946267

TV & VIDEO REPAIRSI I TV INSTALLATION

GOGGLEBOX

(^SE '- - '"

Same day, local service wherever possible

Tel: 01793 469300

IRONING

IRONING

ad •

Same day/next day service

oi^Whitewaj, ONE To ONE he Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

Washing machine, tumble d ryer & dishwasher repairs and servicing •

Competitive prices

Tel: 43111 1

APPLIANC E REPAIRS

TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates " No call out charge * All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

WIRING & INSTALLATION TUNING of TVs, 1)VD players, Hi-Fi's, surround sound.

LCD & plasma systems and videos

Free estimates, no obligation

Call Andy on 07900 981144 email: asinstallatio ns@ fsmail.net

50 The Link Magazine • September 2005

Book Babes Storytelling & Activity Sessions Big Books, crafts, games and more!

For children 18 months to pre-school Now at the North Swindon Library

For other venues, details and bookings call Sharon on 702814

BABYSITTING SERVICE For any special occasion or gym/ shopping, we can be at your service 1 5years childcare experience CRB (police checked). Refs available North Swindon based Tel: 01793 324715 Mob: 07709-429155

CRUISE r

Ct!TS

Hair re-styled by Rebecca Qualified in all aspects

(^

of hairdressing for 13 year0 Specialising in weddings \\ 01793 825977 after 5pm 07833 391414 mobile

HARM

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LIVING

DSA APPROVED DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Friendly female instructor, competitive prices & discount for block booking CALL HAYLEY: 01793 878174 or07932124311

Ladysmith Equestrian Centre IHS approved centre. Qualified tuition for adults and children from beginners to advanced. Superb hacking along the Ridgeway. Own a pony day courses 01793 740842 / 07752 097629

www.ladysmith - equestrian.co.uk Landsmith Road, Chiseldon. Swindon

DECOTEX 9!D. Upholstery Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388 BRUNEL ELECTRICAL From an extra socket to a complete re-wire, we can provide a total service to our customers Free quotes. fully insured Part P compliant www.brunel-electrical.co.uk Tel: 01793 422880

Repairs & Recovering Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive prices

JC White Electrical Services For all home, garden and small business requirements Rewires, extensions. repairs & fault finding. No job too small.

Tel: 706396 - M: 0776 1302831

Memories to D VD ^r

Cherished photographs

D I SC SERVICE

in albums?

Would ou like to view them on y our I V? Let me transfer them on to a DVD with titles & transitions to your taste.

Tel: 01793 3 45241 for details

Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcord^ Tapes. VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs 11e collect and deliver mer a wide air T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079. Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

Oxfam group formed to mark Make Poverty History White Band Day 2 Third World poverty has been close to the top of the agenda over the last few months and a group of Swindon people have formed a branch of Oxfam to sustain interest in the issues raised by events like World Poverty Day, the Live8 Concert and the G8 conference in Edinburgh.

They are looking for more supporters to join them in the Make Poverty History campaign.

They aim to raise funds to provide immediate relief but also to campaign on issues like debt relief, trade justice and better aid for the developing world.

Anyone interested in joining should contact Emma Bushell on 638097 Poverty History: White Band Day or mail: emmabushell@ 2. It aims to sustain grass root supyahoo.co.uk port to remind world leaders at What was all that White Band the forthcoming UN summit in New York of their Millennium Destuff about? Still got yours?

The new Oxfam group will be run- velopment Goals agreed in 2000 ning a stall in Swindon town cen- with the objective of halving world tre on 10 September to mark Make poverty by 2015.

World Peace Day, 21 September The United Nations has by resolution decreed that 21 September each year is International Peace Day when the whole world can reflect on the need for global ceasefire and non-violence.

Locally, a group of supporters Barbara Thompson or Hans from Swindon Fair Trade Coali- Hoffbauer on 330639, mail: hanstion, Swindon Churches Together, and-barbara@ntlworld.com Oxfam, Amnesty, Swindon World Development Movement and Swindon Film Society are working together to organise an event to mark the need for peace across the planet. ' vang.1 This takes place at the Commu^o^ 'Worsley Road a/^ pity Hall, Drove Road. Doors open at 6.45pm, with refreshments, stalls .p 9m , ` nd live entertainment. At 8pm the film Peace One Day will be ^. m ' T°B `° building with people shown charting the movement to get the UN to adopt the InternaSunday services are at tional Peace Day resolution.

I Oam & 6.30pm Turn up and take part. Profits For further information you can from the £2 admission fee will be either ring (01793) 873050; given to Oxfam for their work in e-mail: office@freshbrook.org Dafur.

or visit: www.freshbook.org

Anyone interested in holding a stall on the evening should contact

'i/u' .'if of God is Eternal i/i'" (Roman,, 0

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

— ESD Ct

Toothill Church; Westlea Church

/THAM—WND E`--^ :. .............: /

Ab

OAeatl,, ' Commun,ry

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School t WA, Meads

^o^ne

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

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 87422) partnershipoffice@btopenworld.corn

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