April 1989 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

west Swindon's

Magazine THE

ChaneWear Furniture

BED SALE

This offer lasts for 2 weeks starting 1st April We are giving away a Free Headboard plus a reduction in the purchase price for all our top quality beds: Sealey - Layezee -. Sleepline - Repose, etc.

No. 85 . April 1989. Circulation 10,000

Road safety outside schools - Public meeting called Following a serious accident outside Freshbrook School in March, a meeting has been called so that people from all parts of West Swindon can discuss the problems outside schools near them. Parents, Governors, headteachers, staff and car drivers are asked to attend the meeting on Thursday 20 April, 8p.m., in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. Below: Six year old Adam Ritchens of Godolphin Close is carried to the ambulance after being knocked down in Worsley Road on 13 March.

First come • First served

for same day dellveiy.

17 - 20 High Street, Wootton Bassett Tel: Swindon 853887

£100 in prize money to be won in this month's Link magazine. See how you could be a winner by taking part in our massive survey of residents. Details on page 14

hunneI Link for Swindon

by Engineering Correspondent Steve Blakeman

Building work starts on The Chinese Experience A ceremony to mark the start on Britain's largest Chinese restaurant on the banks of Peatmoor Lagoon was held on 18 March. The Mayor and Mayoress of Thamesdown, Coun and Mrs.

Jim Cordon took turns at operating an excavator in the prescence of the restaunteur Laurence Lee, his business partners and directors of Wilcon Construction (pictured below).

A consortium of local Civil Engineering Companies have won a contract worth £15m with Eurotunnel for the excavation of cavity chambers. At present the Channel Tun- problem with Civil Engineering nel is running some 8 months Companies all over the UK. The behind schedule and Eurotun- local consortium should start nel have been discussing the work by June 1989. The excavation of cavity How did West Swindon celechambers will take place in the brate Red Nose Day - Photos Swindon area and the chambers Inside. Below: Robyn Hawkins will be inserted in the tunnel. (20 months) shows the way. Estimates show that the progress of the tunnel should increase by 15%. Although the contract is a major employment boost to the area, there will be a problem of what to do with the excess earth the cavities will inevitably create. An option could be the transportation of the earth to form the foundation of the proposed dry ski slope at Shaw Ridge. V Win a trip to Alton Towers - page 5 & 6 for details V Pizza vouchers - see page 25 V Win a Car from C&C Conservatories on page 27

Nationwide Anglia

Sandoes

WEST SWINDON DISTRICT CENTRE, WESTLEA, SWINDON. TEL: 872222

The only estate agency office located in the heart of West Swindon.

Burleigh Park, 4 bed det. house, dbl. gar. £145,750

Westlea, 2 bed end terr. \,,_ house, £56,950 _)

Freshbrook, 3 bed det. house, £82,950

Ramleaze, 2 bed semidet. house, £61,995

We at SANDOES pride ourselves on the quality of our services. We market all our properties with:

Full Colour Photograph's!* *High Quality DetailsM Regular Advertising with Ph 0to'S! r *For Sale Signs!* Accompanied Viewings in Our Vehicles if Reguired!* No Sale - No Fee! We supply all this but we do not ask you to pay one penny extra. For more information call Swindon 872222 now!

Nine Elms, 4 bed det. house, 112,000 }

Freshbrook, 3 bed det. house, £106,000

Wootton Bassett, 4 bed det. house, £127,500

Eastleaze, 3 bed det. house, £89,945

P.S. If you are not on our mailing list but would be interested In receiving details, why not give us a call? Sandoes are the ONLY local members of the Nationwide Anglia Estate Agency network, which has over 400 branches throughout the U.K. Dedicated to the highest professional standards, Sandoes has absolutely no connection with the various agencies trading locally as 'Nationwide Estate Agents.'

FRONT PIECE April Times launched A new once-a-year limited edition magazirtehasbeen published and is available in two versions at the West Swindon Library. The magazine has been published in an A4 format and will also be displayed as a wall newspaper for those who enjoy reading and standing at the same time. The contributors are all residents of West Swindon with a wide range of award winning journalistic experience. For those who cannot visit the library, some of their articles are printed in this month's Link. From Steve Blakeman of Grange Park, there is an article of almost surreal em .tiness. Also

from Grange Park, Val Brown reports on an important proposal to make Swindon the centre of Europe. And to prepare for a more unified Europe, S. Niewiadomski scoops a report on a traffic experiment to take place in West Swindon. Unfortunately TheLinkcan only carry a limited number of the ar:icles and readers are advised to visit the library.

Peter Garratt

the Company comoany

32 Victoria Road Swindon

Wiltshire's brightest Introduction Agency and Social Register Telephone Rosemarie or Elizabeth on 487761 or 790927

We were saddened to hear of the sudden death on 5 March of Peter Garratt just a few days after the publication of last month's Link Mgazine in which he contributed Wright to a feature on Thamesdown Homeline, the telephone welfare Planning Services help service. Building Plans prepared, Peter suffered from severe multiple sclerosis and was Published by West Planning & Building confined to a specially designed Swindon Publications Regulation Approval heated flotation bed. Because of 13 Castle Dore its monitoring technology and obtained Freshbrook, Swindon emergency call out staff, Tel: (0793) 872282 "All the headaches taken Homeline allowed Peter to live at Styling at Home Publisher/Editor: out of your hands." home with the support of his Roger Ogle family, and health and social All work undertaken by fully Advertising Sales: 872282 services workers. He was one of I Apple Macintosh design, qualified engineer. the first people tobe connected to layout and iasersetting by Homeline three years ago. Telephone Steve Wright on IMacOgie. Peter's Home Carer Jenny Printed by Western Webb, Bristol Swindon 871553 Lawson-Duckett from Freshbrook said all who knew him were Published on the Wednesday very shocked by the suddenness closest to the first of the of 'his death. "He was a wonderful month. Copy date: 12th of man. He must have been in the preceding month. tremendous pain at times, but he never ever complained. He was a "The Link was first published In great example to us all." For Sophisticated Design in Curtains, December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It Valances, Tiebacks, Quality Carpets, Locobus lost Is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the The mobile community centre that competition to name the leisure has been visiting Sparcells will not be Furniture, Blinds, Wallpapers and Bedding centre in 1984." visiting the area from mid-April The Octobus Project that manages the Contents Please call in to browse, you will be Locobus has a policy for the bus to 3 Front Piece visit places without facilities for a 4 Toothili very welcome. short time only. 6 Freshbrook & Grange People in Sparcells will no longer Park have a local meeting place. A group 8 Comic Relief revisited of aarents have been campaigning 10 Westlea for a temporary community centre 11 Shaw but have made limited progress. 12/13 Women in Business 14/18 The Big Survey of West Swindon AM 19 Arts Scene 20 Education Matters 21 Recreation 22 Day in the Life We also stock most other shapes and designs and our price 23 Library promise means we can meet or beat any offer in the area. 24 More Comic Relief 26/28 News & Views OVER 1,000 CYCLES USUALLY IN STOCK 29 Home & Garden MOST LEADING MAKES 30 Round Up FREEAFTER SALES SAFETY CHECK 31 The Reference Page (1 MONTH AFTER PURCHASE)

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TOOTHILL

Determination gets After-School Club back

Ralph Palmer Pharmacy Ralph Palmer, M.P.S., Dispensing Chemist 3, Doorhurst Way Toothill.

Hours of Opening: Mon. - Fri. 9am-lpm; 2pm - 6pm. Sat. 9am - 12 noon.

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rate 3 afternoons a week ting soon. If you would like to out more, come along to the n evening to m...........the staff the management committee.

EXCtJSIONS & TOURSAdult Child Wed 12 Apr Sun 16 Apr Sun 23 Apr Sun 30 Apr Sat 6 May Wed 10 May Sun 14 May

Visit to Stuart Crystal Factory (Aberbargoed) Bournemouth Weston-Super-Mare Bournemouth Spalding Flower Parade Westonbirt Arboretum Forest of Dean & Wye Valley

£5.00 £3.75 £5.50 £5.00 £5.50 £7.50 £2.50 £5.00

£4.00 £3.75 £4.00 £6.00 £1.75 £3.75

Also Booking Elton John at Birmingham N.E.C. 18 May £20 Cliff Richard at Wembley 17 June £26

Thamesdown Transport

ENQUIRIES & BOOKINGS: - FLEMING WAY KIOSK, NEAR PRIMARK, tel. 6399

Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food & Fish and Chips Special Chinese Food Take-Away Menu TEL: 487055 Hours of Business Sunday 6.00-11.30pm Monday Closed sit day Tuesday 5.00-l1.3Opm Wednesday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-11.30pm Thursday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-11.30pm Friday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-1200 Saturday 12.00-2.00pm 5.00-12.00 OPEN ALL BANK HOLIDAYS (MONDAY) FROM 5.00p.m. -1100p.m.

After-School Club chair Diane Stuckey second left with the After School club staff, from left, Jenny White, Suzie Woollaston, and Gail Fairhall A year of hard campaigning by parents in Toothill will pay off in a few weeks time when Toothill's After-School Club restarts. The club shut down at the end of March last year and parents started a campaign to raise the money to get it restarted. Throughout last year, a group of parents lobbied councillors on Thamesdown's Arts and Recreation Committee. They also presented their case to local charitable organisations. Leading campaigner, and now chair of the club's management committee Diane Stuckey, said it was great that after-school activities were starting up again. "This time last year our children had lost something they greatly enjoyed. It was a hard slog for the parents to argue their case. Some did not see any chance but we persevered. The more the councillors tried to put us off, the more determined we became. We've had some help from local community workers but it just shows that a community group can get things done." Funding for the club is coming from a variety of sources; £4,000 from the Allied Dunbar Staff

Charity Fund, £2,000 each from the West Swindon Youth Resource Committee and Thamesdown Council's Arts and Recreation Committee, and £1,500 from the Thamesdown Community Trust. Three members of staff have been appointed by the afterschool club management committee and they will care for up to 24 children between 5 and 11 on three nights a week. The club will be open to children living in Toothill with a number of places reserved for parents who work. Children will be picked up from school and escorted to Toothill Farm where the club meets. There they will take part in preparing a snack and a range of activities are planned by the staff including crafts and games. There's a chance to meet the management committee and the staff at an Open Evening on Wednesday 12 April between 3p.m and 7p.m. at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive. They are keen to talk to parents who would like their children to attend the club to explain how it will be run. Children can be registered and there will be refreshments served.

Rock School comes to Toothill Youth Club

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Mark Hull and Suzanne Rees took on performing roles when Swindon Rock School visited Toothill Farm Youth Club in March

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THE HERON HOMES 'AMILY COMPETITION WIN A DAY OUT AT Heron Homes, Britain's largest privately-owned housebuilder, whose stylish development of 3 and 4 bed detached family homes are generating so much interest in the West Swindon area, are offering readers of The Link Magazine the opportunity to win a fabulous day out at Alton Towers. And there are three runners-up prizes of Heron Homes Golfing Umbrellas. All you have to do is take this page of The Link to The Hawthorns, Heron Homes' local development, and answer the five simple questions which are based on their elegant 4 bedroom showhomes, and complete a tie-break slogan. 1. Every Heron Home comes with fitted carpets. How many carpets are there in the Heron range at The Hawthorns? 2. Every Heron Home is fitted with a burglar alarm system. But what else does the system boast to protect the family from? 3. The spacious fitted kitchens come complete with appliances. What range of appliances are fitted as standard to every Heron kitchen? 4. The popular Heron part-exchange scheme takes the worry out of moving, but it also allows you to save on whose fees? 5. You can choose the sanitaryware and tiles for your new cloakroom, family bathroom and ensuite, but how many different sanitaryware colour choices do you have? Now complete this slogan in not more than 12 words:

Heron Homes are better because

The Rules. 1. Entries must be handed in at The Hawthorns Sales Office by Sunday 30 April. 2. Prize winners will be notified by 12 May. 3. The judges decision will be final. 4. No cash alternatives will be offered.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Car drivers anger at crossing patrol The appointment of a crossing patrol person outside Freshbrook School has not been to everybody's liking. After years of complaints by parents and councillors, the County Council agreed to the appointment and Mr. Ken Sheppard took up his position in January. In carrying out his duties he has had to prevent cars parking close to the crossing point on Gainsborough Way. He also has to hold up the traffic to allow children and parents a safe crossing. Unfortunately the needs of pedestrians have not been appreciated by car drivers who have directed angry abuse at Mr. Sheppard. He was persuaded not to give up the job within days of starting by supportive parents and local councillor Bob Pixton. "I can see his point," said Coun. Pixton. "You don't start a job just to get an earful of bad language.

FOCAl. POINT FUES CONNEC

Ken Sheppard helps predestrians across Gainsborough Way

Mr. Sheppard is doing a very important job in supervising the crossing and car drivers should accept that a 30 second hold up is a small price to pay for the safety of the pedestrians."

G. Park School - possible long delay Negotiations over a land-swap going to school in Freshbrook, or deal could delay the building of perhaps at Salt Way, the County the controversial primary school may not win the right to buy the which will serve Grange Park. land. This set-back means that The proposed opening date of existing schools will continue to September 1990 looks be overcrowded." increasingly unrealistic. Borough and County Wiltshire County Council and councillor Simon Cordon said, the developers Bradleys have "Land negotiations are always failed to agree on the terms of a difficult and the breakdown in swap of land involving the negotiations is a disappointing Bradley owned site off Hay Lane, turn of events. The community in Grange Park and Council pushed the County Council to owned land in Stratton St. the Hay Lane site and they must Margaret. keep the pressure on to see that Unless a deal can be stitched the school is built as soon as together, the Council may have possible." totakeoutacompulsorypurchase order to force the sale of the three Pretty bonnets for acre school site. Easter Parents and local councillors have repeatedly pointed out and The winners in the CWR Majorettes Easter Fayre bonnet competition on 18 petitioned the County Council March from the front, Emma about the size of the school, Freeguard, Emma Moss and Gemma arguing that it is far too small to Pixton, with the judge, Marie Crane cater for Grange Park's needs. Thamesdown Borough councillor Bob Pixton, who helped organise the petition in November said he was furious that the school was delayed yet again. "The residents campaigned vigourously to get the originally proposed site off King Henry Drive stopped and the Hay Lane site accepted. "Now, in spite of having twelve months to buy the land, the County have managed to bungle negotiations by demanding too much for the Stratton site. A compulsory purchase order can take up to three years to push through! If the inspector who examines the CPO sees children

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Choose Us First For the Best Quality Take Home Food Available Fried Freshly For You Cod, Plaice, Haddock, Skate, Huss, Scampi, Chips, Various Pies, Sausages and Chicken. Why not try one of our delicious Curries for a change? Have you had one of our big beefburgers? They're Great. Open Monday - Saturday 11.30am - 2pm; 430pm - 11pm Car Park 'A' West Swindon Centre TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME - 870455

COMIC RELIEF REMEMBERED - SOME OF THE SCENES AROUND WEST SWINDON

West Swindon Dixons' s 'p assistant Suzanne Moore from Toot hill takes a fling.

Atif Hussain took up The Link's invitation to feature in a 'photo with a red conk.

tNx

Ice Cream girls Michelle and Joanne Devereux from Grange Park.

West Swindon Centre creche workers Sylvia Walker and Brigid Jackson from Toot hilt.

Throwing the sponge at Oliver Tomkins Playgroup supervisor Lyn Wilson helped raise £104.

The Sparcells Playgroup mums raised £54 by selling cherry topped cakes door to door and to builders.

Sue Collins, proprietor of West Swindon's Cut 'n Dry Unisex hair salons, is pleased to announce the arrival of Joanne Moss as Manageress of Cut 'n Dry Shaw. All customers old & new welcomed.

Shaw Village Centre • Tel: 874825 Freshbrook Village Centre • Tel: 873217

• 1 eaI Windows.

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Why spend your holidays or tree time up ladders painting windows or doors that are draughty, ill-fitting and have probably seen better days? We are a local company that manufacture windows, doors and conservatories in uPVC or Aluminium at our factory on the Hawksworth Trading Estate in Swindon. • We are members of the Glass & Glazing Federation • We don't take deposits. i (payment is made on completion). GGF I • We give a 10 year Guarantee. (Transferrable). • We also insure our Guarantee for 10 years. (Transferrable) • Our fitters are trained by us and only work for us. (not subcontract).

Let Bob Mason, your local Reprerentative give you a friendly, no obligation quotation and say goodbye to those wasted hourê. Telephone: Swindon 770717 (evenings), Swindon 618136 (daytime) and ask for BOB MASON

Above: JCR Shaw raised £78 from an easter egg raffle, from left to right: Joy Holidge, Sheila Forrest, Rachel Kimber, Val Rowe.. Below: Telling jokes was the order at assembly time for fourth years at Oliver Tomkins unior School.

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This could take away any financial worries enabling you to look forward to a more stable way of life. There are no hidden clauses and you may like to find out how much you could save. If so, please ring either of the numbers below. Swindon 873369 (2 lines) or 827725. Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Group, member of Liutjr and I.M.R.O.

WESTLEA Red get-up for Comic Relief -

Everybody was dressed in some kind of red at Westlea School — left - Just some of the school with Father Xmas headteacher Nell Griffiths on the right

Art week for youngsters

deft Stoee Painter and Decorator Tel: Swindon 870515

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Historical Experiment Planned for West by Mr S. Niewiadomski

One of the less-publicised effects of 1992 is soon to be put to the test, and West Swindon has been chosen as the location for this historical experiment. On 1 January 1992, we will be committed to start driving on the right hand side of the road, in line with our brothers, by the turn of the century. In anticipation of the problems which will arise, the Department of Transport has decreed that the fastestgrowing town in Europe will host a week-long trial later this year. During this week, all traffic in West Swindon will be subject to continental driving rules. In government circles, the first day of the experiment has been christened 'D-Day', in recognition of the momentous significance of the event. Work is planned to begin soon to erect new road signs, which will be covered up until D-Day, and suitable road markings at all junctions. Two major headaches have had to be solved to make the scheme possible: the doors on buses and what happens where the 'continentalstyle' traffic meets then ormal'British' traffic. Steps to solve the first problem are being taken now by Thamesdown Transport who are converting three buses to dual-side operation. Because of financial restrictions, three is the maximum number of buses which can be converted and these will be the only buses operating in West Swindon during the week of the experiment. The important issue of how traffic driving on opposite sides of the road will merge has forced what may prove to be a controversial decision: traffic access to West Swindon will only be allowed at two roundabouts on Great Western Way. At these points, the police will install temporary lights which will control the merging traffic. Detailed maps of the area affected by the scheme and leaflets explaining all the implications will be available soon at the Link Centre Library. Because this scheme is bound to arouse strong feelings in local road users, The Link Magazine wants to know your views.

Making simple art objects from wood and string was the objective when a group of pupils from Westlea School spent a day of their arts fortnight in March on Shaw Ridge with new artist in residence Tim Sandys-Renton, who was featured in last month's Link. Tim who will be working in West Swindon until September on a major piece of sculpture for the ridge will also take part in various school activities during his residence.

Pictured above with Tim on Shaw Ridge are Abbie Woodman, Hazel Dolman and Katherine Homer working on their abstract representation of a woman. "I suppose you could describe our work on the ridge as environmental art. We were trying to keep things as simple as possible and concentrating on how you can construct things with the most basic of materials. "We had six groups working and all took a different approach. One group built an arch, another a women, a third built a shelter in the woodland. The pupils enjoyed themselves and I thought their work was very imaginative." Tim is working on ideas for his large piece of sculpture which will have a strong archaeological theme to it. "Overall it will be about six feet high and will remind us of the strong links this area has with the past and our connections with future events." The details of Tim's ideas will be revealed in future issues of The Link.

SHAW United opening for Shaw Church Four hundred people and all the clergy from different churches in West Swindon attended the official opening of Holy Trinity Church at Shaw Village Centre on 4 March. The interdenominational service of dedication was presided over by the Rt. Revd. Barry Rogerson, the Bishop of Bristol, Revd. Roger Haydon, general superintendent for the Baptist Union western area, the Revd. Michael Hubbard, moderator of the United Reformed Church in the south west and Revd. Ian White, chair of the Bristol District of the Methodist Church. The Revd. Rogerson spoke of a 'vision of interlocking enterprise,' which brought the different churches together for a common purpose. He also commented on the criticisms directed at the planning authorities who had demanded a steeply pitched roof, which had increased costs. But, he said, the church now had a definite and strong physical presence at the centre of Shaw which would be reflected in the community's spiritual and social needs. He added that a spire

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day or evening Guider Elizabeth Perry dedicates the font under the supervision of the Rev. John Flory with the senior clerics observing from the other side of the alter and baptistry pool

would soon be erected to complete the church building programme. A collection taken at the service was passed on to the parishioners of Bradley Stoke, the next area in the Bristol Diocese to have a church built. The service was followed by a tea party.

Feature Fireplaces Original Designs Free Estimates

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Woodshaw Village Centre Shaw Residents' Association exhibition last autumn about the will be holding its Annual development of Shaw and has Tel: 854653

New blood needed for association

General Meeting on Tuesday 4 April and residents living in Old Shaw, Nine Elms, Ramleaze and Middleleaze are invited to attend. Over the past year the association has supported residents by contacting developers to improve road cleanliness and site parking, taken up road, pedestrian and subway lighting problems and has taken up other issues affecting Shaw people with different local authorities. The association also ran an

tried to bring people together to push for a community centre. If the Shaw Residents' Association is to have any kind of role in helping local people have a voice in the way their area is managed by outside authorities, or a say in the way their community should develop, Shaw people have to attend the annual meeting and get involved. The meeting will take place on 4 April at 7.45p.m. in Shaw Chapel in Old Shaw Lane.

Brookfield staff dress up for Comic Relief Although nearly all the children at Shaw's Brookfield School dressed up on 14 March, the staff line-up for the day was equally interesting

DISPENSING

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SHAW VILLAGE CENTRE RAMLEAZE DRIVE SHAW TEL: 886076

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N.H.S. DISPENSING PREGNANCY TESTING PATIENT ADVICE & COUNSELLING OPENING TIMES Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9.00a.m. to 6.30p.m. Thursday 9.00a.m. to 5.30p.m. Saturday 9.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. Closed for Lunch 1.00p.m. to 2.00p.m.

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On a wet Thursday in March hundreds of women converged on the Oasis Centre for the first Women Into Business Exhibition. The event included seminars, workshops and over seventy stands with creche facilities provided for the under-fives. Jane Sheppard from Swindon Enterprise Trust explained the thinking behind the event. "The aim is to raise women's awareness of the opportunities available to them. With virtually full employment in Swindon, skill shortages and falling numbers of school leavers, employers are beginning to be much more flexible in their approach to

[Iqoinning TO P

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Women in Business The Link Magazine's womens' writer Ellzebeth Wood gives her impressions of Women in Business Exhibition held on 3 March

women at work. This is a situation the women should be exploiting." Several of the large employers at the exhibition confirmed this. Pauline Pearce from Barclay's Bank said that recruitment difficulties were already apparent. The Bank now offers extended maternity leave and flexible working hours to encourage women returning to work. Lil St. George, Personnel Officer from Triumph outlined the company's new working arrangements for mothers. For just over a year they have been operating a 'Mum's Shift' from 9.45 to 2.15 four days aweek. The company offers 20 days paid holiday a year and an extra 10 days unpaid leave can be taken, all of it during the school holidays. "We don't want to lose people once we have trained them so we do our best to give women the flexibility they need to combine work and family." For women who were looking for ways to increase their skills several training organisations were exhibiting. The Taurus Training Centre, based atCheney Manor offer a wide variety of courses from word processing to welding. The company tries to offer tailor-made courses for women, many of them eligible for Employment Training grants. Sue Morgan, Managing Director of Taurus, said "Women very much under-value themselves and their skills. Many of the women who come on our courses need their confidence boosted. Many already have skills that they don't even recognise."

'Manpower' recruiting womanpower - a wry smile from Elizabeth Wood

Information was also available for women who would like to set up their own businesses. Bootstrap Enterprises is an agency with charitable status whose aim is to help set up Worker Co-operatives. Karen Clark explained "We can help in a number of ways - with low cost premises, interest-fre6 loans, training, and general handholding. We have had enquiries from many women with good ideas who want to work for themselves but don't know how to get started." One of the enterprises they have helped, Roots & Shoots, a landscape gardening business, was also at the exhibition. Carole Tarrant, one of the partners, was busy explaining the nuts and bolts of getting started to women eager to follow in her footsteps. (continued opposite)

European Headquarters for Swindon? by the Link Magazine's European Affairs Correspondent Val Brown

After years of expensive and timewasting travelling between headquarters in Brussels and Luxembourg, the bureaucrats of the EEC have decided that enough is enough. They plan to establish a permanent base for the European Parliament before the deadline for lifting trade barriers in 1992 - and Swindon tops the list of possible locations. In Strasbourg last week spokesman M. Poisson d'Avril confirmed that Swindon is a front-runner in the panEuropean race to attract this prestigious organisation. "Swindon's position, both geographically and financially as the fastest growing business centre in Europe, makes it an extremely attractive proposition" he said. "The international business community has already demonstrated its belief

in the future importance of Swindon as a corporative and manufacturing centre, and many more household names are seeking to relocate to the Swindon area.." "With the impeding completion of the Channel Tunnel and with 1992 fast approaching, it is essential that the world be able to focus on a European administrative centre that is clearly defined and easily accessible." A spokesman for Tharnesdown council commented "It has long been our opinion that Swindon offers unique opportunities. We would welcome such a move, and are confident that in Swindon a centralised European Comm-unity Headquarters would succeed and flourish." The final decision is not expected until this time next year.

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Elaine Wilkes considers her future at the Swindon Development Agency stand at the Women in Business exhibition, with Maria Pidlisnyj from Middleleaze listening in.

At the other side of the up my own business. The event exhibition hail the seminars and has been well organised and has workshops were packed out. A given me lots of ideas. The only large range of topics was covered problem has been getting into including self-development, the workshops - they are too training and every aspect of small to cope with the demand." setting up a business from As a result of the exhibition 'Getting to know your bank' to Elaine has visited the Jobcentre and has an appointment at the 'Franchising'. Altogether the exhibition was end of March to discuss full of information and interest Employment Training which for women. I spoke to Elaine she hopes will give her a basis Wilkes from Grange Park. She from which to start her own said "I came here looking for a enterprise. The Link will follow change of direction - for some her progress and let you know inspiration for training or setting what happens.

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Here's your chance to have a say in the biggest survey ever done in this area! The Link Magazine is co-operating with Thamesdown Borough Council to distribute a questionnaire to every house in West Swindon - to be returned by FREEPOST, no stamp is required. To encourage you to reply, The Link is offering £100 in prizes to six lucky people who send back the survey form with the reply sup printed below. There is a £50 first prize and five £10 runner-ups. Why this survey now? V

West Swindon is nearly 14 years old and with only a few more building years to go, there is no factual information about what the people who live in the area think about it. Please answer as many questions as you can on the survey form printed in the centre pages of The Link. Leave blank those you don't want to answer.

Your reply will be treated in the utmost and strictest confidence.

If you want your name to be entered into the prize draw, cut out the reply slip below, seal it and enclose it in an envelope with the survey form. The slip will be immediately seperated from the form when the envelope is opened. The questionnaire takes about 15 minutes to complete. Most of the questions ask you to tick in a box and a few ask you fill in a word or a number. Your help will be invaluable in helping to discover what people living in West Swindon think about the community in which they live and the magazine that serves them. The closing date for the prize draw is Friday 28 April

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To take part in The Link Magazine's West Swindon Survey prize draw, fill in this reply slip and return it with your questionnaire. NO STAMP IS REQUIRED. Just put the slip and questionnaire in an envelope and address it to: Community Development, FREEPOST, Swindon SN1 21311. Name Address •Before you cutout theslip, ølèasé lookat the advèrtiscthértft

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Where do you live presently? Toothill Freshbrook Grange Park Westlea Eastleaze Shaw Ramleaze Middleleaze Sparcells

Toothill Freshbrook Grange Park Westlea Eastleaze Shaw Ramleaze Elsewhere in Swindon Where? Elsewhere in Wiltshire, Where? Another part of the UK Where? Another country. Where?

How would you rate West Swindon as a place to live for the following groups of people? Please fill each box with a number from 1 to 10, with 1 = worst possible and 10= best possible. For young couples For pre-school children For 5 to 11 year olds For teenagers For retired people For families on limited incomes For newcomers to the area today For yourself personally

xis 1ii 1a k WM id 4J iliii YA PY The following items have been mentioned from time to time as causing difficulty for some people in West Swindon. How do you personally feel about each of them? I have Its not a Its somewhat Its a problem in of a major no problem opinion my opinion problem Amount of community meeting places Amount of leisure facilities Amount of facilities for teenagers Health care The layout of roads & roundabouts The location of pedestan routes The condition of pavements The location of road crossing points The development of land Vandalism & Graffiti Dog mess Lifter Childcare while parents work Personal safety Policing No laundrette No benches Street Cleaning Community Information Size of schools Traffic control at schools ny other problems?

If it is a problem, please comment here if you wish.

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SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT FINALLY THE LINK MAGAZINE • How do you find out about what is going on in West Swindon Tick any that apply. Friends and other people The Link Magazine Newspapers Radio Poster Other • The Link is published at the leginning of each month, Do you receive a copy through your door: Every month without fail over the last 6 months We've been missed once in a while We rarely or never get it Other • Do you read your copy of The Link: Every month Sometimes Never - Why not? • If you read The Link, do you: Just flick through it casually Read about your area only Tend to read all of it Other • How long do you usually spend reading your copy of The Link? • How many people in your household look at The Link? Would you describe The Link Magazine as Definitely Somewhat Not at all Welcome Bonng Varied Narrow minded Comprehensive Easy to read Unusual Humourous Well-organised Uninteresting • What topics would you like to see covered in The Link which are not at present?

• If you had to pay for a copy of The Link each month, how much would you be willing to pay? F--]Nothing fl20p 150p fl]1

• Have you ever used any of the businesses advertised in The Link, e.g. hairdresser, garden centr builder, garage, etc, etc? flNo r7es • If you have, can you remember which ones you used?

• Are there any other services you would like to see advertised?

• Do you take a national newspaper? No Yes Which one(s)? • Do you fake the Evening Advertiser? No Sometimes Daily • Which of the following free papers do you get regularly? Swindon Messenger Wiltshire Star Swindon Echo Thamesdown Target Thamesdown News _Leisure Extra How carefully do you read the papers you get? Read Read Don't most of it some of it read it Swindon Messenger Wiltshire Star Swindon Echo Thamesdown Target Thamesdown News Leisure Extra • Do you listen to the radio? Not at all Occasionally Regularly - Constantly • If you do, how many hours a day would you listen t the following radio stations? GWR Radio Radio 2 Brunel Radio Radio 3 Wiltshire Sound Radio 4 Radio 1 Do you subscribe to Swindon Cable Television? flYes fl No [Not now, but have done in past Thank you for your time and trouble. Please post your survey form as soon as possible.

ARTS SCENE

An exhibition worth viewing

Link Arts Co-ordinator Chris Humphrey gives a run down on whafs coming in April Film Saturday 1 April 'ASTERIX IN BRITAIN' (U) - a Childrens Film Club presentation at 2.30p.m. Thursday 6 April 'THE UNBEARABLE LIGHTNESS OF BEING' (18) - a Film Society presentation at 7.30p.m. Thursday 20 April MAURICE' (15) - a Film Society presentation at 7.30p.m. Saturday 22 April 'THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER' (U) a Childrens Film Club presentation at 2.30p.m. Saturday 29 April PEEWEE'S BIG ADVENTURE' (U) a Childrens Film Club presentation at 2.30p.m. Music Saturday 1 April 'BLACK EARTH' and 'ART HOUSE' - a Swindon Rock Front concert at 8.00p.m. Saturday 8 April 'L. A. ROSES' and 'FRED DINEAGE EXPERIENCE' - a Swindon Rock Front concert at 8.00p.m. Friday 14 April 'lAIN BELLAMY QUARTET' - a Swindon Jazz Front presentation at 8.00p.m. Friday 21 April 'JANE KENNA WAY 'and 'RED SHIFT' plus 'LINZI MORGAN' - a Carabet Impromtu music promotion at 8.00p.m. Friday 28 April NOBODYS HEREOS' and 'RUBBER BASE ANGEL' - a Swindon Rock Front presentation at 8.00p.m. Drama Tuesday 4 April 'THE SERIOUS LEAK' by Forkbeard Fantasy at 8.00p.m. Saturday 15 April 'MOTHER POEM' by Temba Theatre Company at 8.00p.m. Dance Friday 7 April 'THE OCCASIONAL DANCE COMPANY' at 8.00p.m.

Drama at the Link This month there are two theatre performances at the Arts Studios. FORKBEARD FANTASY have been here several times with their unique usual style. This time, on Tuesday 4 April they present 'THE SERIOUS LEAK' an eco-nightmare. If you haven't experienced a Forkbeard show be prepared for usual trickery, ingenious effects, sets and machines.' The performance starts at 8.00p.m. on Tuesday 4 April ticket prices £3.00/2.00 (concession).

Temba Theatre Company This exciting and vital theatre company visited the Wyvern Theatre last year with Romeo and Juliet. This month they are at the Link with their new show MOTHER POEM'. This premiere performance Is full of life, Caribbean folk dancing, music and vitality, the play is a lively story set on a Caribbean Island, which brings the experience of Barbados to the British stage. The performance starts at 8.00p.m. on Saturday 15 April tickets are £3.50/2.50 (concession). Below: Josette Bushel! and And ne Reid of Temba Theatre Company

There are just a few days left to view an unusual exhibition of paintings at Link Arts Studio. The works by mother and son, Vera and Glynn Uzzell, are a tremendous contrast. Glynn is an internationally recognised artist whose abstract paintings have been exhibited worldwide. His 82 year old mother started painting when she was 60. Her memories of the every day life of her childhood are captured in enchanting detail, Coronation Day street parties, men with braziers guarding holes in the road, scenes around the home.

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MOTHER PRESENTED BY THE WYVERN ARTS TRUST

THE PLAY by

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Full of life, Caribbean folk dancing, music & vitality. The play brings the perfectly tropical Caribbean experience to the British stage Saturday 15 April, 8pm

EDUCATION MATTERS

The Importance of Play 'Learn through play with PPA. 'is the theme being promoted during 1989 by the Pre-School P/a ygro ups Association, a national voluntary organ/sat/on concerned with under-fives and their families. Sue Blundell, an area organiser with the Thamesdown Branch of the PPA explains how play sets a foundation for a child's later life. The PPA believes that 'Playing is Learning for Living.' This message is spread throughout its membership of playgroups, parent and toddler groups and interested individuals, as well as through courses for parents and under-fives workers. It is such an important message that we should all be spreading the word. The first 5 years of life, as research shows, lays the important foundations and patterns for future learning. This makes it imperative that our children's pre-school experiences are happy and stimulating. Play is significant to the well-being of us all, but for young children, it is as essential to their physical, intellectual, emotional and social development as food, warmth and love. To provide for this invaluable experience, it is not necessary to purchase expensive 'educational toys.' The home is filled with a wealth of resources: counting the stairs, matching the lids, laying the table. Turn those household chores into fun: sorting the washing can change a bored toddler into an eager helper with an opportunity to learn about colours, matching and sorting. Learning in this relaxed environment promotes interest and enthusiasm

and extending language skills; the photo' album is ideal for stimulating conversation, developing memory and recall and at the same time, allowing you the opportunity for a well-earned 'cuppa.' Play has been called 'children's work.' It is how a child grows from being totally dependant at birth to a large degree of independence by the age of five. Children are born with an innate curiosity to make sense of the world they live in, to explore, discover

The simplest of materials helps a child

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and understand themselves and each other. Children's play will vary according to their experience, confidence and interest; they are individuals with their own feelings and desires. It is more relevant to consider the stage a child is at rather than their age. A child may be at differing stages of play according to the activity (its interest and motivation), the environment (at home, playgroup, unfamiliar group), their mood or the time of the day. it is our role as adults to provide a wide variety of play opportunities in different situations. The fun, excitement and stimulation play provides also promotes the determination and concentration a child needs to take Playing with water, one of many ways those first steps, pour a cup of water of discovering things or stick that toilet roll tube in just the other. It helps them build up their right place. This highlights another confidence at making decisions and important aspect of play - the 'sense allows them to discover their own of achievement,' a very significant limitations. factor in building up a good selfPlaying is certainly 'learning for image and feelings of worth. Play living' and with good foundations allows children the opportunity to laid In the pre-school years and a set their own rules and standards sensitive approach at school, our which not only improves their children will retain that innate chances of success, but also gives curiosity and continue to learn them practice at understanding each successfully and happily

'Named' at Upper Shaw Farm Playgroup Playgroup chairwomen Janet Bazeley explains an innovation introduced at her playgroup After last half-term we introduced of the group, as they proudly wear name badges for both the children their playgroup badge. Also the and staff. The staff badges feature children can be addressed personally, the P. P.A. logo, the group name, and even by the parent-helper who might of course the wearers name. They be unaware of the child's name; some can now be easily spotted when new children being reluctant or unable to parents visit the group. communicate this information. They The children greeted their badges are useful too, when the time comes with much curiosity, one little girl to write names on craft work, put on picking out her badge immediately! coats and shoes for outside activities The badges carry a picture ofasimple or reunite lost items with owners. object, begining with the same initial The badges are only worn inside as their name, alongside their name. the playgroup building where there is The aim is to help the child recognise constant supervision. We are only their own name and see how the too aware of the possible dangers of same letter is used elsewhere. The children wearing name badges when little girl in question, whose name is mixing with the general public. Abbie, was quite sure her badge must The children are delighted with be the one with an angel. She was, their badges which they wear with of course, quite correct! pride. They will be lasting momentos The idea of the badge is two-fold. of the happy times they have spent The children will feel very much part with us. Identifying themselves at Upper Shaw Farm Playgroup, from left to right, Lucille McParland, Jem Scragg, William Peach, Krytal Cinquegrani

RECREATION Anya Kent, the Link Centre's Promotions Officer Invites you to take part In things different

A Musical Interlude Swindon Choral Society present "A Child of Our Time" - an exciting musical extravaganza involving international artists, the Wessex Syphonia along with the Swindon Choral Society. Two shorter pieces by Monte Verdi will also be performed to add a contrast to the evening! The Performance takes place at the Link Centre on Saturday 22 April at 7.30p.m. Tickets are available from Link Main Reception. Ticket prices: £6, £4.50. If you are looking to try something different this April

Why not take up tennis? West Swindon splendid indoor tennis centre at the Delta Business Park, and is awaiting local people to grace its brand new courts. Don't worry if you haven't played tennis for years - you won't be the only one!. Delta's friendly staff are there to both guide and give advice. The tennis centre has a fully licensed bar, cafeteria, changing rooms and Sue Dale shows youngsters how to play against the ball showers making your visit all the more enjoyable. For those who decide to serving machine at the Delta Tennis Centre play at the centre, please ensure that you bring a dean pair of tennis shoes to change into - with your co-operation the life of the high quality tennis The North Wilts. Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Group in carpet will be prolonged. The Delta Tennis Centre is for YOU so make a visit conjunction with Swindon Area Supporters Group of the World today! The telephone number for enquiries is 871111. Wildlife Fund for Nature is pleased to present

'An Evening With David Shepherd'

You can't always please all of the people Link Centre course booking system comes under fire An attempt to make the business of booking a course at the Link Centre an easier, fairer and less fraught exercise has been criticised as the wrong way. The Centre tried a different approach to booking a course in March when the glossy programme - Update 89 - was stapled into the centre of The Link Magazine and distributed to every house in West Swindon. For the last three years, the programme has been distributed to most parts of the area with a free newspaper. Those interested in a course then had to queue at Link Centre reception - up to 3 hours in some cases - in order to ensure a place. Much criticism was directed at the Centre for an inadequate and frustrating system of participating in recreation activities. This time, however, course applicants were invited to fill in a form which would be opened with all the others by Centre staff who allocate places. Link Centre co-ordinator John Fisher expressed surprise that the reaction to the new method of booking has been so vehement. "At the Open Forum held in November, which was well publicised in The Link Magazine, the course booking system was heavily criticised. We knew that things were not right. Some people were able to get into the queue early, others had to wait with young children, the staff became very harassed and it was all very frustrating and unfair. "What most people don't realise is that only a few courses

Friday 21 April at 7.30p.m. (Doors open at 7.00p.m.) The Link Centre David Shepherd is known for his conservation work on Wildlife and Steam Engines. His artistic abilities are outstanding, in particular his portrayal of Elephants and Engines for which he has earned the title The Man Who Loves Giants'. He will talk and show films about his work. Tickets are £2.50 Adults, £1.50 OAP/Children under 16 and may be obtained by sending S.A.E. to: RSPB (North Wilts), P.O. Box 435, Swindon 5N3 1 RA. (Cheques payable to RSPB, North Wilts). We feel privileged to host this event and see it as a fine opportunity to see David in person. He will be available to talk to people at the event and will have a sales stall.

John Fisher were booked up in the old way. Using the 'postal' booking method, it means we can allocate places six weeks before the courses start and if necessary try to arrange more if the popular ones fill up. This is not always possible because there just is no time or space available. "It also means that everybody has a fair shot. Most of the critical letters were received before the closing date and written expressing fear that they might not get on the course of their choice. In fact, we've had over 1,000 enrollments and have been successful in placing the majority of applicants. "We shall try the 'postal' method again to assess its effect. In the longterm, what is worrying is that there's not going to be enough space to cater for the demand. However, for now, I would welcome constructive suggestions for arriving at a suitable system for course bookings."

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DAY IN THE LIFE

Putting Wiltshire back into radio It's 5.30 in the morning and my radio alarm - tuned to BBC WILTSHIRE SOUND of course begins its difficult task of trying to pull me out of bed. As with many jobs I have to work shifts, and as many shift workers will know, that has its disadvantages as well as its advantages. I have to admit I'm not the World's best person at waking up early -but at least I'm not on the 'dawn' shift every week. In the run up to BBC Wiltshire Sound going on-air on April 4th,

it's given all of us at the Radio Station the chance to carry out some thorough investigative work for various programmes. One of the pieces I've been working on is a Documentary about the Airforce in Wiltshire. This has given me the opportunity to visit places like the Imperial War Museum in London, to dig around its Sound Archives and amazing library. Being able to do research in places like that is a real luxury it takes time which is one thing we very rarely have

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Radio reporter Zelda Blakey describes how she and her colleagues have been getting ready to "bring back radio for people with something between their ears" much ofduring a normal working day. Wiltshire Sound is here to give you entertaining and informative programmes and that goes for the News service as well. We have more than ten journalists in our team, which allows us to broadcast the best News and Sports service in the County. Some of the journalists are based in Trowbridge and Salisbury and the rest of us are based in our Old Town studio complex. We broadcast news bulletins until 10 o'clock every weekday night, which means we are never more than about 50 minutes from our next bulletin deadline. It also means we do a lot of running about and during a typical working day the Reporter is often sent straight out on a story as soon as they walk in through the door.

what my connection with West Swindon is and why I'm in this magazine The first question is straight forward enough - very simply when I joined Wiltshire Sound I had to move into Wiltshire and I bought a place to live in Shaw. And when The Link editor discovered I live in the area, he made me an offer I couldn't refuse! Although I've only been here for a few months I have got to know the area quite well and I'm trying to make the most of the facilities. I thought it was about time I did some exercise other running around Wiltshire with a tape recorder over one shoulder and a microphone and a notebook in my hand. Living here has also given me a good insight into the area and its problems and these are the kind of things which Wiltshire Sound's

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Ready for action, Zelda, microphone at the ready in front of Kim Creighton 's mural on the side of the BBCs Swindon base

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The job doesn't give you much news team will be keeping as eye time to sit down - you are either on. out doing interviews or back in Of course we are always keen the studio editing and writing up to hear from you the 'listeners' the stories. The only time you get if you feel you knowabouta story the chance to sit down is when which we may be interested in, you are actually in the studio then please drop us a line or give reading the news bulletin. But us a call. Also if you want this is why a lot of us are in the job publicity for an event happening - it can be very exciting meeting in West Swindon -tell us, because all kinds of people and you're that's why we're here, to provide always under pressure to beat lively, informative programmes the next deadline. You do have to and news. be prepared to work long hard *You can tune into Wiltshire hours and the late shift journalist Sound on 103.6 FM or 1368 kHz is often seen burning the midnight (219m). You can also write to the oil, but then that's the case with station at Broadcasting House, many other jobs as well. Prospect Place, Swindon. Tel: You may well be wondering 513626

West Swindon's Womens Institute branch Tootleabrook W.I. meets on the third Wednesday of the month in the Community Room at Toothill School. The next meeting takes place on 19 April at 7.30p.m., with a talk on 'Eyesight is precious' by Mr B.J. Smith. Visitors and new members always welcome. For further details contact Karen Ryman on 695499

AT YOUR LIBRARY 23 Linda's Top 10 Recommendations Conservationists and costs West Swindon Librarian Linda Black reviews the month ahead Conservationists amongst you might borrow from the library by the due be interested in the exhibition we are date. Fines charges are not to be accommodating between 29 March increased for the first week overdue and 26 April. Entitled 'Our to allow for the occasional oversight, Conservation Area', the exhibition but thereafter we will be charging 8p relates to the conservation area which per day per adult item overdue and has been created behind the Holy 3p per day per junior item. Rood Junior School. Local photo- Remember, if you cannot return grapher Denis Bird has produced items, to ring up to renew them or some marvellous photographs of the drop us a line. Many people do not area as it developed, together with realize that if the library is closed work in other media by the children they may drop their books into the from the school. library letterbox by the main entrance Alas, some doom and gloom to to the Link building. The new charge report this month as regrettably to reserve a book will be 35p and to several of our charges will be borrow a music cassette will be 30p increased as from 1 April. Do be very still very good value of course! A careful to return all the items you complete list of all the new charges is available at the library enquiry desk.

1. Sheldon, Sidney: Sands of passion, intrigue and rebellion. Time (Collins) - a tale of four Adventure, eroticism and nuns who are abruptly forced to flee the secure environment of their Spanish convent and face a hostile world they long ago abandoned - history, romance and suspense!

mystery and a masterly recreation of a vanished civilisation - 900 pages so leave plenty of spare time!

7. Strong, Terance: That last Mountain (Hodder &Stoughton)

2. Cornwell, Bernard: Sharpe's - our spy thriller recommendation Revenge (Collins) - the tenth in for the month - S.A.S. and Soviet the very popular Sharpe's series set in the Peninsular War - more bloody conflict from Mr Cornwell. 3. Ferrars, Elizabeth: Trial by Fury (Collins) -first rate mystery suspense from this classic writer.

Spetsnaz teams clash in a ferociously exciting battle set in the frozen mountains of Sweden.

8. Thompson, E.V.: God's Highlander (MacMillan) - love,

loyalty and independence set in eighteenth century Scotland at the 4. Mcllvanney, William: time of the Highland Clearances. Walking Wounded (Hodder & 9. Williams, Simon: Talking Stoughton) - the characters are Oscars (Heinemann) - tension ordinary people whose lives and intrigue in this first novel retain 'the stubborn resplendence from actor Simon Williams - dog of unfulfilled dreams' - eat dog world of Hollywood beautifully written by the author politics! of 'Docherty'. 10. Jenkins, Geoffrey: Hold 5. Harrod-Eagles, Cynthia: The down a Shadow (Collins) - a high Victory (McDonald) - the twelfth speed adventure thriller set in the 'Dynasty Series'. around the opening of a new dam 6. Cooney, Eleanor & Altiera, in a small African state - will the Daniel: Court of the Lion baddies be successful in their (MichaelJoseph) - Imperial China attempt to destroy the dam and is brought sensationally to life in release a killer flood? - this could this panoramic story of love and be quite a popular one! Pictured far left: Rowena Mawle, manager of Barclays Bank West Swindon branch, with the entries to the collage competition sponsored by the bank. Left: Lee Clark from Oliver Tomkins School has a go at sculpture during Pat Elmores exhibition in March

You might be thinking of your summer holidays, but have you thought about whose going to keep in touch with Granny? It's fun to think about the holidays, but if you have an elderly relative who relies on your contact, its worth finding out about Thamesdown Homeline. Pensioners who subscribe to Homeline have help at hand within minutes. Because this round-the-clock welfare monitoring system comes complete with special devices designed to summon assistance fast in any real emergency. Whether Granny or Grandad is a Council tenant or a private householder, find out more about the ways Homeline can bring reassurance and peace of mind by EPlease send me full details of the Thamesdown Homeline welfare monitoring service. (BLOCK CAPITALS PLEASE). filling in and returning the FREEPOST coupon, or dial 100 and ask for Freefone Name Age Thamesdown Homeline.' Address

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Katherine Fielden of Shaw Ridge Mrs. Holman tries to impose School went in for the egg carton discipline in her class at look Freshbrook School The only person in school uniform at Windmill Hill School was the school secretary Mrs. Wilson

Karen Davey, from Freshbrook, and Tim Green contributed to a Working around the nose - Dentist hair raising total of £736 at The Brendan Ball, Ros Hutchings with Running Horse on Wootton Bassett Road Rusty Jackel in a recline Clowning around on a computer - Greendown students Sarah Hicks and Claire Irvin (sitting) and Sukjinder Khaira, Jasbinder Bilan, Leanne Williams and Alison Pollard

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NEWS &VIEWS West Swindon's Great Day of Discovery Moving on in time and space 26

Bike ride for the whole family around the patch Bob Pixton is leading a grand tour of West Swindon on Sunday 17 April for anybody who has a bike. The trip will start at 2p.m. from Freshbrook Village Centre and will take a circular route around the area, visiting as many play areas and sites of public sculpture as possible. The ride should take about 3 hours and will include stops to test play equipment and for a picnic. "I hope lots of family groups come along," says Bob. "Children must be accompanied and the youngest can take part as there are very few main roads to cross. it should be fun touring the parks and seeing the sites; it'll be a good way for those who don't know their way around to discover some of the by-ways. Those who come don't have to do the whole tour as it will be easy to take a short-cut home."

Mayor to bury 100 year Time Capsule on May Day - public help wanted

£18,000 up in a year. The lift at Greendown Community School that local people campaigned and raised money for throughout last year is to be installed during May. The project was launched in March last year when Westlea School pupil Kerrie jack decided she wanted to go to the local secondary school. She suffers from a nervous disorder which makes walking difficult and climbing stairs almost impossible. When her parents found there was no lift, they launched an appeal to raise the cash to instal one. They also started a campaign to get Wiltshire County Council to put in money. The fund collected £9,000 in six months and the County Council agreed to match the amount raised. "The effort has been just fantastic," said Karen jack. 'The lift will make access to the upper floor at Greendown so much easier for Kerrie, other disabled students and adults who attended evening classes."

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Standing where the lift will be installed Kerrie is pictured receiving a cheque for £953 raised by Greendown students with her mother Karen and trustees of the fund, Neil Griffiths, head of Westlea School, and maths teacher Sally Barker.

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What does the future hold for future generations living in West Swindon? What will they make of us in 100 years time? What do we want to tell them? 'Looking to the future' is the name of one of West Swindon's public sculptures, the three reclining figures that have spent the last four years in Westlea Park. It's also the theme of an event to mark the resiting of the sculptures and the burying of a time capsule which will hold information about the present, to be opened in 2089. Sadly the sculptures by Jon Buck have been the target of continued vandalism and an alternative site has been found next to the lakes at the West Swindon Centre, which are more in the public eye. The proposal to move the figures known locally as The Bathers, because of their scant attire, has been received with enthusiasm by West Swindon centre managers Property 3. "We are keen on the idea of art in public places and we are delighted to incorporate The Bathers in a clean, safe environment," said Christine Duddy for Property 3. "The lakeside is an ideal location for the sculptures. People will be able to view them in pleasant surroundings, there's the play area and we want to encourage local schools to use the area for studying pond life. "Jon Buck's figures, 'Looking to the future,' are particularly exciting for the ideas they represent. Children are all our futures and we're concerned about the future of West Swindon. So we're asking local children to write a letter of around 200 words describing what their life is like now and what their hopes are for future generations. The letters will be read by their own great, great grandchildren and we are making two E25 awards for the letters to be included in the time capsule, one from a 9 toll year old, the other from a 12 to 18 year old." Letters for the future should be sent to Christine Duddy, Property 3, West Swindon Centre. The Mayor of Thamesdown will bury the time capsule and unveil the

bathers on 1 May. This will be followed by a free fun fair, traditional May Pole and Morris dancing with a collection going to the National Childrens Home.

The Link into the future The Link as a magazine exclusively directed at the West Swindon community is looking for a sponsor so that the copies published over the last ten years can be buried in the time capsule. They would have to be converted to microfilm to take up minimum amount of space. Local companies are being asked to support this initiative so that people living in West Swindon in 2089 will have access to the news, views and information from up to 110 years previously. Approximately 1,200 pages of A4 would need to be copied. Potential sponsors should contact Roger Ogle, The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook.

Lighthouse help wanted The Lighthouse Club for mentally handicapped adults is desperate for volunteers who can help out at the club and take part in activities with members. The club meets at on Tuesdays between 8p.m. and 10p.m. in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. The members use all the centre's facilities and volunteers find themselves going swimming, playing football, table tennis, snooker, trampolining and taking part in movement sessions. To find out more about the Lighthouse Club, call Stephanie Hathaway on 612926.

You can win a Ford Fiesta at C & C Windows West Swindon's Double Glazing and Conservatory Companyis celebrating the opening of its new indoor conservatory exhibition centre by offering the chance to win a new Ford Fiesta supplied by Walker Jackson of Swindon to their first fifty customers. Since moving to the Westmead Estate, near Westlea, barely 18 months ago, C & C have expanded greatly. It's a family firm run by Simon and Alison Cole and their sons who live in Grange Park. Their high quality conservatories have been proving especially popular and the exhibition centre is designed to give customers the chance to appreciate the atmosphere, pleasure and convenience of having one added to the home. Conservatories make perfect playrooms for children, giving a bright, warm, safe playspace. They are also great as breakfast room, dining room, office or even an extra sitting room. They are very cost effective when compared to brick built extensions and should also be considered as an alternative to moving house to gain more space. The cost of a house move can often exceed £3,000, and most conservatories do

not require planning permission or building regulation approval. Three styles of conservatories are displayed in the C & C showroom. Each is comfortably furnished and really give you the feel of what it would be like if built onto your house. On show is a Victorian design with arched panels, angled roofing, ridge

Pictured right, the furnished Victorian conservatory in the C & C Exhibition Centre

crestings and finials, an elegant addition to any home. The Georgian is a classic in design with authentic period detail formed from modern materials. The traditional Lean-To adds that useful extra space and catches every last ray of sunshine; it will add value to any property. C & C Windows realise that customers want to know they are buying the best available. Therefore never is never compromised. Every fitting, including hinges, handles and locks are chosen the provide utmost security. Having raised a family, the Coles are very conscious of the concerns that parents have for the safety of their children. All glass is toughened and sealed, manufactured in the U.K. to British Standards specifications. The exhibition centre is open seven days a week and Simon or one of his staff are pleased to conduct visitors around the displays and answer any questions. Should a customer like to consider a purchase, a site survey and quotation are undertaken without any cost or obligation. As a local firm, C & C Windows Ltd. have built a reputation on quality, personal service and competitive prices. With the opening of their conservatory exhibition centre, they aim to offer West Swindon householders a great deal more.

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Swindon's first community business is going to it make much easier for people with disability or infirmity to get around. WOW' People Accessible Transport' has been developed by group of people who want to see much better transport services for disabled people. Linda Beck from Freshbrook, Laurence Yeoman, part-time community worker in West Swindon, Gill Long of Stratton and Kieron Healy, a director of Link radio cars have been involved over the last few monthsinbringingafully wheelchair accessible vehicle to

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the streets of Swindon. They have been assisted in setting up the business by Caroline Jones of the Cooperative Development Agency. As a community business all profits will be used for the benefit of people with special transport needs. PHH at Windmill Hill have leased the vehicle and are donating ÂŁ500 worth of petrol, the Allied Dunbar Charitable Trust is paying for half the insurance costs and Bootstrap Enterprises has put in an interest free loan of ÂŁ2,000. The new kind of taxi is a converted Nissan Prairie with a raised roof and lower floor. This means that any kind of wheelchair can be easily rolled in. The absence of door pillars allows the front passenger seat to swing round to give easy access and exit.

car soon. "The car will operate hours a day and when not on to a disabled person will be u like an ordinary private hi vehicle," said Laurenc "Sometimes it won't be availab when a person with a disabili calls, but we don't want them be put off. We want people to c and ask for the WOW! car becau it means we can try and g another on the strength demand. "To begin with our charges be about the same as normal t services and we're trying to g the Council to allow bus toke to be used in payment. In t longer term, we hope to ma our service much cheaper f disabled people." Laurence Yeoman can contacted on 824928 and Lind Beck's telephone number i 692771. The WOW! car can b booked via Link Radio Cars o: 766035 or 542112

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Linda Beck is very excited about the freedom of movement that people with disabilities are going to have. "For those who have difficulty getting about, buses are impossible. Some private hire companies are more helpful than others, (Link Cars have a good reputation and have been very helpful to us). But this car makes you feel ordinary. If people turn their heads, it will be to look at the vehicle, not at somebody sitting in a wheelchair in it. There are 3 other seats so I can travel with my children or friends rather than make separate travelling arrangements. "I'm in a wheelchair as a result of a bad car crash; I'm usually terrified of travelling in a car. Going somewhere in the Prairie is different; sitting in the middle and being able to see out of all the windows makes me feel very secure." WOW! is being launched with just one vehicle but Laurence and Linda see the need for another

Trying out the WOW! wagon, Laureno pushing Linda on board, with Ro Williams of Freshbrook trying the swive passenger seat. Brian and Tina HaylocJ of Bloomsbury Close look on.

About business

A Co-Operative Approach by Karen Stevenson Have you ever felt dissatisfied witi

local shops or services, or frustratec with the lack of them? Ever though "I could do that better, and at tin same price or less?" Been put off b3 lack of support or advice? If you have a good business idea that would supply a need in tin West Swindon Community, why no come along to the next meeting o the newly formed, West Swindor Community Businesses. This i basically, a number of people whc are looking to form a Co-Operativ range of businesses to supply the local area, with the security of being part of a larger group. The meeting date is 3 April al 8.00p.m., Link Centre Comm-unit) Suite. If you are interested and mm the meeting, or for furthei information contact Kingsle) Matthews on 511802.

HOME & GARDEN Nose to the Ground by Claire Beaton April is a month filled with the promises of flowers and abundance to come. There are young shoots of paeomes; polyanthus and cultivated primrose varieties which have been flowering abundantly throughout the soft winter we have just had and should continue as a luxuriant carpet throughout April. These are rivalled in their flower power by the common aubretia which has mats of vivid purple in slightly differing shades April should also see the bedding wallflowers beginning to prove their worth. They are usually bought in the autumn as bare-rooted bundles of leafy stems that are stuffed in garden beds emptied of the summer annuals. It is fairly usual for the lower leaves to drop off as the roots resettle themselves and during the winter they form dumpy bushes on twiggy legs. Now they will develop a flat central bunch of flower buds and, as the days lengthen, this will form the familiar lengthening spike of small, four-petalled flowers. The colours are the tawny shades of red to gold and lemon. The scent is wonderful. The problem is bringing yourself to dig them up so you can plant summer annuals againi; you need to be quick to pull them out at the right moment. The joys of watching all this new growth appear in your garden beds is best enjoyed at close quarters, through that most traditional spring activity; hand weeding. Armed with a sharp pointed trowel in one hand and gardening glove on the other, not forgetting the waterproof kneeler, I hack at the inevitable bittercress, shepherd's purse and weedy grasses. When I have finished there is a crumbly surface tilth of a satisfying deep brown. I will have seen all the young shoots of remembered plants from last year reaching surface once again. Patches that are bare will also be seen clearly and, as I sift soil from weedy roots, I can think of those plants I would like to see fill the gaps. If I cannot think of any, even better: obviously time to ease my back and travel out to one of the small gardens with attached nurseries now opening their doors for the new season. *My favourite is Marten's Hall Farm at Longworth in Oxfordshire, near Kingston Bagpuize. Not only does it sell a fascinating range of tough and attractive shrubs and perennials, but most of these have been propagated for the garden that is open 28 and 29 April (2-6, admission 70p/30p child). Walking round the garden visitors can appreciate the clumps of lateflowering snowdrops, early paeonies and such early-flowering moistground plants as Podophylla hexandrum and lily of the valley. It is educative to visit such a well cared for mix of plants grown in a soil similar to our soggy clay. Martens Hall Farm is signed from the A420, approaching Kingston from Swindon, and, once in Longworth, is opposite Bowbank Close.

Time to spring clean the carpets Twelve months ago Andrew Garrett from Shaw was unemployed after getting fed-up with the motor trade. After talking to somebody who came to his house to clean the carpets, he decided to provide a similar service to West Swindon and took the big step into self-employment and setup Sureclean. In the last twelve months he has indeed built up his carpet and upholstery cleaning business into a local service. "Its been hard work against stiff competition," said Andrew. "But with only a little advertising in The Link and a lot of leauletting, its gone very well. I'm getting repeat requests and quite a few jobs through recommendation Andrew Garratt - providing a which is encouraging. local service "As for the future, I hope to continue building the service to West Swindon householders. Asa resident I see this area as the place to establish myself." Andrew of Sureclean Carpet and Upholstery cleaning services can be contacted on 874460.

All entries will be judged as a whole irrespective of size or contents. The Judges will be looking for: -Layout to give a pleasing effect. -Quantity, quality and variety of plants. -Tidiness- paths swept, flowers deadheaded, weeds removed, plants staked if required, lawns mowed and edged, etc. -Any special features greenhouse, rockery, tubs and hanging baskets to be Judged same way.

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30 From J. McMullen, Freshbrook. Gateway - Link 84 Full marks to the article by Mrs K. Seeley - a much needed and accurate analysis of the sheer weariness of trying to shop at Gateway. Forthose of us nolongeryoung, the approaches (and departures) are, as she says, somewhat of an obstacle course, not made any easier or safer by the large numbers of youngsters riding bicycles, skateboards, etc. outside the public house and toilets, in their usual inconsiderate manner. Given the loss rate, one supposes that £1 deposit per basket is reasonable, but, as the charming lass dispensing them also has to deal with returns and refunds of goods,a lenthy process for her - one is forced often to wait a long time to proffer one's £1 ! A separate basket issue stand is called for - or as I suspect - is the small-volume 'live alone' shopper of no interest to such a large concern, who by definition being olderand less affluent, does not need to be provided with seat inside the store (a bench would do) even though the large number of staffed check-outs causes them to join lengthy and slow-moving queues of 'big spenders'. As your correspondent says, it is well worth the bus fare to Sainsburys or Old Town Co-op recovered by lower prices, and a more friendly and customercaring atmosphere. (N.B. Thamesdown Transport - how about a mini-bus service there, like the 25/26?) BUT full marks to the restaurant and its staff!! To forestall the Store Manager's reply - if he is interested which I doubt - yes, I do know that there is an 'Express' checkout, not always staffed, but the smallvolume customer often has a few more than 10 items. After making the assault course journey to and round the store, one must try to get enough items to avoid a further trip on the morrow! FromMandyAldridge, Grange Park. I read with interest the article by Elizabeth Wood in the March edition of The Link.. I have often had the same probkii in the past. It was almost impossible to kit 2 of my children out for school, as they started after Christmas, when winter uniform was no longer available in the shops. I have also hunted for the ever elusive winter coat in February and thick trousers in January or during March snows. To combat the situation, about a year ago, a friend and I started 'Dazzle,' a business dealing in childrens' and ladies' wear.

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Holiday cottages in Cornwall

From Mr Alan Cox, Ramlen7e. After reading enthusiastically in The Link about the opening up of Peatmoor Lagoon for fishing by youngsters I telephoned Mr D. Stiles of The Committee'. I was disgusted to learn from him that his committee had decreed that children had to be between 10 and 16 to be allowed to fish the lagoon. I was led to believe that the idea was to encourage children, not deter them. I wish to record my utter disgust at this decision by 'The Committee'. Why not make the sensible decision that many other angling clubs make, to allow younger children to fish but only if accompanied by an adult, not exactly a difficult decision to make! My 8 year old son lives within walking distance of the lagoon and will be very disappointed to hear of this rejection. I'd be fascinated to hear the ages of the children of the committee members!!! Will you please consider approaching the Thamesdown Council about amending this stupid rule made by narrow minded people. An Answer Mr Donald Martin, Chairman of the Peat moor Angling Club, explained to The Link that the club is newly formed and does not start operations officially until the season starts in the middle of June. "The Committee considered the age limits long and hard and the Council suggested we use the model used atLiden Lagoon where 10 is the lower age limit. "We feel we cannot take responsibility for children under the age of 10 fishing on their own and a line had to be drawn somewhere. By the same token,a keen fisherman just over 16 years of age is going to be upset. "The Committee will be reviewing whetheraccompanie4children under 10 can fish the lagoon at its second ever meeting on 4 April." We stock school uniform ALL YEAR and if an article happens to be out of stock we can soon obtain it. During the awkward period between seasons we try to offer items for both winter and summer. Our childrenswearsupplier does the same so a phone call can often solve a problem. We also have a local dressmaker now supplying us with some childrens' garments. Mums having problems can contact us on 870949. We stock well known names; sell individual items, as well as on a party plan basis; and we give commission to hostesses and groups.

5% discount offer to readers The rise in mortgage interest rates will have made a lot of people reconsider their holiday plans. Instead of going abroad, staying in this country will have become more attractive to many. The Link has negotiated a 5% discount for its readers with Andrew and Janice Hawkey who run The Olde House self catering farm cottages in the tiny village of Chapel Amble, North Cornwall. They run a collection of delightfully converted cottages arranged around an old farmyard at the heart of a 500 acre family run farm. The cottages sleep between 4 and 8 people are equipped to a high standard. Just up the road there are a further six cottages converted from an old mill house. For the visitor who wants to relax there is a superb indoor swimming pool, with a separate toddler pool and leisure facilities which include a Jacuzzi, sauna, solarium, snooker room and TV lounge. All these, except the snooker and solarium, are provided at no extra charge. For those who want to be active, guests are welcome to join in with haymaking and harvesting whilst Children will find the livestock irresistible. Further afield, the rocky coastline of Cornwall, the sandy beaches at Daymer and Polzeath, golf, bowls, tennis, water sports, King Arthur's Castle at Tintagel, Flambards Village and lots of other attractions are all on offer. Mr. and Mrs. Hawkey have a detailed coloured brochure about the cottages and if readers mention The Link, 5% will be deducted from the holiday price. The address is The Olde House, Chapel Amble, Wadebridge, Cornwall. Tel: (020 881) 3219.

Playgroup Vacancy Greendown Playgroup, Grange Park, are looking for an assistant supervisor from September for their lively, happy playgroup. 'Four mornings a week (excluding Wednesdays) 'Application forms from Mrs Jameson 876056

Car Boot Table Top Sales & *Saturday 1 April 2p.m - 4p.m. £3; £4 on the day To book a table phone 614492 at Toothill Community Centre All welcome Aid of Toothill Community Centre *Saturday 22 April 10a.m.-12 noon Pitches £3; £4 on the day Tel 872450 to book Refreshments In aid of Friends of Freshbrook School $ Saturday 22 April at St.Peter's Catholic Church, Carronbridge Road, Westlea. 11.00a.m.-2.00p.m. Pitches £4; £5 on the day Refreshments available Tel. 872639

Jumble Sales *Saturday 8 April Upper Shaw Farm Centre, Ridge Green 10.30a.m. - 1230p.m. Adm. 5p In aid of Shaw Ridge Parents and Toddlers. *Saturday 8 April Freshbrook Community Centre. 10.00a.m. Entrance Fee lop Refreshments available In aid of Freshbrook Parent & Toddler Group

N.C.T. Baby Equipment & Toy Sale Community Suite, Link Centre 11.00a.m.- 12.00 noon Seller gets 75% of sale price, 25 % to N.C.T. Bring your equipment on the day. Check in 9.15a.m.-10.45a.m. For more information ring Jane Halstead on 771892 or Gail Grant on 853411

Going on Holiday? Pensioner will look after your home and/or pets and garden. Excellent references. Tel: 61 4879 forquotation.

Clothing Alterations & Repairs. Tel: 872096 Mrs. White, Freshbrook.

Greendown School Vacancies M.D.S.A. (Mid-day Supervisory Assistant) required at Greendown School. 40 mlns per day, 5 days per week. Salary £434 per annum which Includes retainer pay In school holidays. Person required to run evening canteen four evenings per week 7.30p.m.-9.30p.m. Monday-Thursday, end September to end May, excluding school holidays. Rate of pay £5.00 per evening. Application forms for the above posts (s.a.e. please) from the Head Teacher, Greendown School, Grange Park, Swindon.

THE REFERENCE PAGE LOCAL COUNCILLORS TOOTHILL, WESTLEA, SHAW & ROUGHMOORISPARCELLS Thamesdown Borough Council Tony Free, Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Tel: 619834 Ricky Midwinter, 4Anglesey Close, Westlea. Tel: 873537 Peter Stoddart, 9 Fairlawn, Liden. Tel: 692812 Surge for Free & Midwinter: Friday 6pm-7pm, Community Room, Toothill School.

Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, I The Holbeins, Grange Park. Tel:875129

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Thamesdown Borough Council Simon Cordon, 16 Branksome Road, Moreden. Tel: 617723 Martin Leighfield, 112 Reddiffe Street, Swindon. Tel: 692305 Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317 Surgeries for Leighfield & Pixton: Wednesday 7pm-730pm, Community Room, Freshbrook School. Wiltshire County Council: Simon Cordon - as above.

RON AHRENS BUILDER & DECORATOR Specialising In all aspects of high quality building work especially decoraling, carpentry and plastering. All work guaranted. No Job too small. Free estimates.

Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)

CYCLE REPAIRS Free Collection Free Delivery on all types of cycle repairs. Evening or day collections. For fast and reliable service, telephone Express Cycle Specialists on 34907 or evenings 874873.

INFORMATION FOR NEW ARRIVALS TO WEST SWINDON Arrivals Officer: Pam Pixton. She will visit you and provide advice and an information booklet about community facilities. Tel: 695317. Newcomers Coffee Morning: Tuesday 10.30am-12noon in the Community Suite, Link Centre.

Doctors

LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES

*Doctors Ketkar, Matheson, Nixon, Flowers, Holden, Chippendale, & Swinyard, Ashington House, Ashington Way, Westlea. Tel: 614840. * Doctor G. Reddy, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. •Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894. *Doctor Kandiah, I Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253. Health Visitor Team, 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 642133/610459.

Baby Clinics: Mon 1.30-4pm 5 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Wed I0-12noon Shaw Community Centre. Wed 2-4pm Greendown School, Grange Park. Thurs 2-4pm Freshbrook Community Centre. Fri 2-4pm Upper Shaw Farm, Shaw Ridge. Family Planning: Free clinics every Wednesday 6-8pm. 5 Deerhurst Way. No appointment necessary. Cervical Smear Tests.

Pharmacies •Ashington Way Pharmacy: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm; Sat 8.30am-I2noon; Sun 1I.30am-12.30pm Tel: 616840. sCoopers, West Swindon Centre: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm; Fri 9am-9pm; Sat 9am-6pm Tel: 872033. •G.K. Chemists, Shaw Village Centre: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9am-6.30pm; Thurs. 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Closed I-2pm. Tel: 886076. *Ralph Palmer Pharmacy, 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm &2-6pm; Sat 9am-I2noon. Tel: 512063. *The Village Pharmacy, Freshbrook Village Centre: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm & 2.15-7pm; Sat 9am-12.30pm Tel: 870226.

Dentists • Brendan Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel:

873044. *Mrs. Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340. Optician RJ Holmes, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 870011

WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINTS Welfare Benefits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice *West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Mon, Wed & Fri 10am-12noon. •Toothill Advice Point, Toothill Community Centre. Tues. 10ani-12noon.

COUNCIL HOUSING A Housing Advice Service is available to tenants of houses rented from Thamesdown Borough Council. Tuesday 2pm-5pm at Toothill Community Centre.

THE CHURCH Anglican-Methodist-U.R.C.-Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221. Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Sec: D. Linnecar Tel: 872884. The Bridge Christian Fellowship. John Gibson. Tel: 27250. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel: 874400. Jamal Mohammadia Prayer Group. Mr. Khan Tel:481986

GGLEBOX Specialists in video & TV repairs Free home estimates All work guaranteed Service from 8am - 9pm NO CALL OUT CHARGE

TEL: SWINDON 813485

THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC Nicholas Hartley M.A., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S.

62 -64 Purton Road. Tel: Swindon 26780 Mon. - Fri. 9am- lOam; 2pm-3pm; 5pm-6pm Open Surgery Mon. - Fri. 6pm-6.30pm Saturday 9am-llam 29 Cavendish Square. Tel: Swindon 511267 Mon. - Fri. 9am- lOam; 5pm-6pm Open Surgery Mon. - Fri. 6pm-6.30pm Saturday 2pm-3pm 24 Hour Emergency Service

Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 26601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602

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GARAGE LIMITED

WESTMEAD DRIVE, WESTLEA, SWINDON. TEL (0793) 641643

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WE ARE WEST SWINDON'S LOCAL GARAGE OFFERING: * 24 HOUR BREAKDOWN AND RECOVERY * SERVICING AND REPAIRS * MOTs WHILE YOU WAIT— 7 DAYS A WEEK * ACCIDENT REPAIRS AND CAR BODY SPRAYING * MINI BUS AND CAR HIRE * ALL ESTIMATES GIVEN FREE

AA APPOINTED

PARTS & ACCESSORIES TRY US FIRST FOR ALL THESE ITEMS FOR ALL POPULAR MAKES OF CAR "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE IF IT'S NOT HERE, IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS" OILS, LUBRICANTS & ADDITIVES BATTERIES WITH 3 YEAR WARRANTIES ALL LUCAS ELECTRICAL PARTS INCLUDING STARTERS, ALTERNATORS, HEADLIGHTS, IGNITION PARTS, BULBS & FUSES. RADIATORS; WIPER BLADES OIL AND AIR FILTERS STEERING & SUSPENSION PARTS OIL AND WATER PUMPS SHOCK ABSORBERS; BRAKE PARTS FAN BELTS; GASKETS PETROL PUMPS ACCELERATOR & CLUTCH CABLES EXHAUST PIPES; TYRES "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE" IF IT'S NOT HERE, IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS

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