April 2004 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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No. 263 • April 2004 Circulation 23,000 lA, are ju,trliaW i proud (f the qu (t h >) of our produce and our reputation for reliable service and attention to detail.

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Thank you Swindon Fourteen year old Maseterata Niapho has only a vague idea where Swindon is and not a clue that it has a football team pressing for promotion. He has no parents and lives with his 17 year old brother in one of the worst shacks in the township of Clarens in South Africa: the two boys struggle on a daily basis for food. But Maseterata was absolutely thrilled in December to be given clothes sent outto Dihlabeng Christian School by Peatmoor School and Swindon Family Church. He was also delighted to be given a bicycle donated by a Swindon family. The staff at Dihlabeng are trying to find sponsorship for Maseterata to cover the £15 a month school fees and to clothe and feed him. He is currently on the school feeding programme which ensures he has a maize meal on a school day with added vitamins and supplements. Read about Swindon's Dihlabeng connection on page 16. • Is Swindon Town going up? See page 38.

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All things literary in May Whether you're a literature nut, a reluctant reader or a newcomer to books, there's something for you at the Swindon Festival of Literature during the first two weeks of May. See the complete diary on our centre pages - 27 to 29. A world leading early years' literacy scheme originating in West Swindon celebrates its tenth year with a workshop sponsored by The Link during the festival. See page 19. The Mayor of Swindon coun Derek Ben field unveils the Festival of Literature programme with festival director Matt Holland with help from Lauren Thornett and Laura Anderson

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Residents threaten Tesco with pickets and boycott People living in Shaw have vowed to make life difficult for Tesco if the company proceeds to take away their Post Office at the village centre. The supermarket giant took over the One Stop chain last year and announced in February that it

would close the Post Office in the Shaw outlet in August when it relaunches as a Tesco Express. Pensioners living in the area, particularly residents of George Tweed Gardens at Shaw Village Centre have been leading protests, supported by Shaw Residents' Association. A 2,000 name petition has been gathered objecting to the closure. The pensioners are also planning pickets of Tesco in Ocotal Way and a boycott of the Shaw store if it reopens without a Post Office. At a public meeting in the Gardens on 15 March, Swindon South MP Julia Drown said she had been in touch with Tesco. "I am encouraged that they may be listening to what people in Shaw have to say. I have made it clear that the Post Office is a valuable resource in this part of the constituency and pointed out to Tesco that they have retained the Post Office in Liden which is a smaller store. We have to continue to make our voices heard loud and clear." Also at the meeting was David Hide, chairman of Postwatch South

Listening to the public, Keith Williams, chair of Shaw Residents' Association, Julia Drown MP, David Hide of Postwatch, Shaw campaigner Jean Waller

and West which monitors Post Office performance. He explained that the Post Office was losing money and was closing 3,000 urban branches across Britain. It would announce closures inSwindon in July. "We will do our very best to try to persuade Tesco to reconsider. If Shaw were to close, it would support the case for maintaining the one at West Swindon Centre." However Richard Symonds from Shaw Ridge said he could use both Post Offices but preferred Shaw because of the huge num-

bers of people who queue at West Swindon. Representatives from Tesco declined to attend the meeting. Campaign organiserJean Waller said, "residents at George Tweed are a little more cheered by Julia's comments and that Tesco may consider building an extension. But it is disappointing that Tesco continue to refuse to talk to us." • Councillors on the West Area Panel will discuss the Shaw Post Office closure at the Civic Offices on Tuesday 30 March, 7pm. The public may attend.

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The Link Magazine • April 2004 3

Shaw phone mast proposals cause health worries Residents living in the Mears Drive area off Cartwright Drive in Shaw are up in arms against planning applications to erect mobile 'phone transmitter masts at the Hillmead Employment area to overcome poor reception in the northern parts of West Swindon. They will be located within three hundred metres of the nearest houses and about 500 metres from Brook Field School. A 12 metre mast is proposed for the corner of Marshall Road and Hillmead Drive, the other located opposite, on the Rivergate site. There is a third application for a mast on Stone Lane. _ In 2001 BT received permission to put up a 15 metre ` ' mast on Marshall Road, but WdMi this has yet to appear.

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said she and her neighbours Established over 10 ?ears were horrified when they r heard of the proposals. They ' WE COME TO YOU have been collecting names on a petition against the apAT HOME OR WORK' plication which is likely to * FREE go before Swindon's planI o collection & delivery ning committee in April. "No mobile phone transmitter masts!" Shaw residents protesting School nurse Sarah said on Marshall Road at Hillmead where there could soon be three * Servicing & repairs she was very worried about BIKE WE ALSO SELL the health issues surrounding grounds for objecting to a plan- tougher rules when deciding upon DOCTOR * New cycles transmitter aerials for mobiles, par- ning application. The letter sent to mast locations to ensure the strong* Parts & accessories ticular increases in cancer in some Swindon Council states, 'Despite est microwaves do not fall on places. "There are a large number research into health risks of mo- schools and hospitals. of families living close to the pro- bile phone masts and the possible • Take part in mobile phone reposed sites and Brook Field School effects of radiation all reports, both search. For information go to: is just a bit further away. We are government and national, have www.mthr.org.uk very worried about the effects of recommended that further reyy ears ef ec romc rad ist ion from th ese search'tsre l ' d o, '-, masts and don't want them close toprovidehowpotentiallysignifito houses. There are too many un- cant these risks are.' knowns and we don't want to be The letter also objects to the the guinea pigs for mobile phone masts because of their detrimental companies." effects on countryside and wildShe said she had been surprised life at Peatmoor Lagoon and resiHere's a way to spend weekends that that concerns for health were not dents are concerned about the drop will have 4 to 16 year olds buzzing. in property values. Jan Woodward, supervisor at FOR SPECIALIST Jell y tots Pre-school at Brook Field Enrol them in your School said she was very worried LEGAL ADVICE local Stagecoach about the health effects on the chil* Conveyancing theatre arts school dren she cares for. (On-Line Estimate Service) where they can learn In January the independent Na* Employment tional Radiological Protection to act, sing & dance. * Family Law Board reported that mobile phones do not give cause for concern, but * Wills & Probate The skills they learn avoided stating they were absoFor more information or aren't just for the lutely risk free. They specifically detailed conveyancing costs visit: suggest that young people should stage. They grow in confidence and self-esteem. www.crd.org.uk not use mobiles for long periods. Stagecoach training is a training for life. Some phone users complain about headaches, burning sensaThere's no audition. Enthusiasm is all they need. tions, itchy skin, tiredness, lack of SOLICITORS Call Sheryll (Principal) concentration and irritation. NEW TERM STARTS In Sutton Coldfield a mast, for a prospectus on D blamed for a spate for cancer cases, SATURDAY I st MAY 2004J 0800 389 7686 Ca rter Read & Dove was destroyed by direct action and residents blocked access to the site Commerce House to prevent its replacement. 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon www.s-c-r-a-m.co.uk E-mail: info@crd.org.uk In May Richard Spring, ConTel: (01793) 617617 servative MP for Suffolk West, will Fax: (01793) 511249 table a private members bill in the House of Commons to give local Fa m 4,1y" http://www.stagecoach.co.uk authorities the right to apply

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The Link Magazine • April 2004

Mr Singh's speculation could be a bad bet As the March Link went to press, Swindon Council's planning committee were preparing to attend a special meeting to debate and decide upon a planning application from Matthew Singh whose company Forefront Estates proposed to turn the derelict Mechanics' Institute into a hotel with a leisure club and private apartments. we still have the hope of achieving The plan before councillors in- Civic Society. Even the New Swin- and programmed the meeting. The Link estimates that council- something worthwhile, something volved removing the brick theatre don Company (responsible for reflytower put up in the 1930s in the generating the town centre) ex- for expenses, officer preparation as good as the Mechanics' itself middle of the original 1850s build- pressed its concern at deficiencies and attendance, printing, heat and was for Swindon in its heyday. "24 May this year is the 150th light, plus the trip to London by ing and replacing it with a ten floor in the proposals. The likelihood that GOSW planning councillors and officers anniversary of the laying of the blue glass clad block to provide would step in and defer the deci- to visit buildings converted by Mr building's foundation stone. Many 118 bedrooms. The meeting lasted all of six min- sion was predictable. Nevertheless Singh's architects will have totalled thousands of people visited Swindon (then a town of 2,000) on that utes after a letter was read from council officers still went ahead at least £6,000. If nothing day to witness the proceedings; the Government Office of the South else the inter- how many would want to come West (GOSW) stating that the vention of bu- and celebrate this monstrosity? council should not decide on the "The trust is calling on our two reaucrats from application until historic building GOSW has MPs and the Government to take experts were given more time to saved Swin- action quickly to resolve this sad consider the proposals. don from its situation. There are powers availEnglish Heritage were always able to the Government to use in a own. going to have a central influence 'last resort;' we believe the counWith its III over the future of the Grade II* rating, the Me- cil's attempt to railroad through listed building, but they had not received the detailed proposals. chanics' Insti- the application indicates that a Other objections were received tute is one of higher level of legal action is warfrom the Victorian Society, the Seeing sense. Supporters of the New Mechanics' Institution the top six per ranted." She added that the importance Theatres Trust, the Ancient Monu- Trust pleased that Government intervention has delayed a deci- cent most imment Society and the Swindon sion on the proposal to turn the Mechanics' Institute into a hotel portant build- of the Mechanics' is indicated by ings in the the fact that the day after the'emercountry, not because of its archi- gency' planning meeting, the ditecture, but for its contribution to rector of the BBC TV Restoration the social history and community programme telephoned the trust A to ask whether it was any nearer development of Swindon. The New Mechanics' Institution owning the building as he wanted Trust have been battling to pre- to include it in the next series. Having invested an estimated serve the building from develop-

ment and see it returned to social £1 million on purchase and lim-

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project. It's something he should consider as it will take months for English Heritage to decide on the merits of his plan and the Trust will be challenging his proposals all the way to the Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott's office. Mr Singh's pockets will need to be deep to stay in the game.

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The Link Magazine • April 2004

A strategy to achieve better quality of life for everyone in the town

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The Swindon Strategic Partnership was set-up last year. It brings together Swindon Borough Council with other key agencies. from the public sector, business, and voluntary and community sector with the aim of ensuring a joined-up approach across all agencies when future strategic direction aimed at improving the quality of people's lives in Swindon is being set. It s chairman, Mike Bell, updates previous Link articles describing the work of the partnership.

Since the foundation document long term plan to ensure was published last year, the Swin- a better quality of life for Casa ' 18311 don Strategic Partnership has been everyone in Swindon, Baths at 3 Beds, 2 . • 0183,113inc7%VA (`l carrying out further consultation now and in the future. It and registration fee . ^'r", with the public to gain their views. aims to bring together All villas are on 1000x: Now the consultation is complete, the things that local peometer plots. Only £128 we are preparing the final version ple think are important Call our Swindon o ff ice tel/fax: 01793 704 089 of the strategy to be launched at and to develop a shared villasinspain vaol.corn our annual conference in April. vision that the public secwww.villas-in•spain.biz The Community Strategy is a tor and the community can work with. It will look at the environmental, economic, and social www.dy-namic.co.uk DYNAMIC aspects of life in the borough. CONSERVATORIES Ltd Each local authority For the more discerning customer area is required by government to have its own Design the conservatory Community Strategy that reflects the Community Strategy which you have always dreamed of local needs. It is the top level plan are: - in the comfort of your own which in essence 'glues' together 1 Creating a Swindon for the future home - using our latest all the other plans and strategies 2 An economically prosperous technology. within the local area to provide a place Once we were just another 'joined-up' approach to setting 3 A place that values its conse rvato ry company .. now we future direction. Its aim is to help environment and safeguards it truly live up to our name of Dynamic organisations, especially within for future generations Also specialising in the installation the public sector, to agree and set 4 A healthy and caring place Tel: 01793 727297 of windows and doors long term targets. 5 A learning and creative place FENSA From the consultations, the pub- 6 Keeping Swindon safe 10 year insurance backed guarantee Registered Company lic told us what they thought were We will monitor and report anthe five most important things they nually the progress made against wanted to see in the Community all targets set in the Community Strategy. They are - access to good Strategy. education for all ages, good health Newsletters on the Community services, efforts to lower the level Strategy can be obtained from foyof crime, affordable decent hous- ers in Swindon Council buildings ing, and job security and prospects. and from libraries. Alternatively These are being used to set the contact Dilys Huggins on 466301 priorities and targets for the objec- or dhugginsC@swindon.gov.uk PEUGEOT J1lotou^c^ tives in each of the six themes in www.swindonsp.org.uk Offer of the

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Annual Blunsdon meeting Blunsdon Parish Council holds its Annual Parish Assembly on Friday 2 April, 7pm in Blunsdon Village Hall. All residents of the parish which opments on the A419 by-pass will includes Blunsdon, Kingsdown, St also be discussed. Vacancies for parish councillors Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake and parts of Abbey Meads are invited exist in the Baxter Ward and Abto attend. Officers' reports of last bey Meads ward, both in Abbey year's activities will be given and Meads. Anybody interested in bethere will be discussion of future coming a representative should call projects affecting the parish such the parish clerk Rachel Smith on as proposals for a play area. Devel- 705617.

Haydon Wick Parish Council needs you! The local press is full of letters from residents who know how local government should be managed, but few come forward to put in effort to accomplish change. The opportunity to help run affairs at local level is presented by parish councils. Currently there are three vacancies on the Hayden Wick council and members are keen to hear from residents of the parish who would be prepared to put in such effort. New members from the developing areas are particularly welcome; there is scope to influence the way these communities are shaped. For details call the parish clerk, Sue Martin, at the Council Offices in Thames Avenue, tel: 722446. www.haydonwick.gov.uk .

The Link Magazine • April 2004 7

Swindon's voluntary and arts groups saved by political alliance, not luck A combination of Labour and Liberal Democrats voting together at Swindon's full council meeting in February defeated a Conservative proposal to increase this year's council tax by 6.5 per cent which would have resulted in massive reductions in grants to voluntary organisations and arts groups in the town. Their alternative budget increasing council tax by 7.3 per cent- or 70p a month on the average Band D property- ensured their survival. However, Freshbrook Liberal Democrat coun Judith Peppitt took exception to our headline over the story in the March Link and explains why. The March edition of The Link contained a celebratory article about the continuation of the West Swindon Family and Community Project grant under a headline: 'Saved more by luck than judgement.' If the Conservativerun council had had their way, this project would have closed. But it was not just our local family centre under threat. Reach Inclusive Arts was saved — a group that helps disabled people broaden their communication skills, build their confidence and helps them live without fear of prejudice in our communities. Swindon has the highest rate of teenage pregnancies in the Country. A group called Home Start is funded through the grant process to support these and other families. Their funding would have been slashed. I do not believe the good people

of Swindon want the Borough Council to act in this fashion. Local government should act as an agency that celebrates the thriving, energetic non-statutory sector in providing care and advice. The Labour/Lib Dem joint budget stopped Conservative proposals decimating the voluntary sector in Swindon. The Conservative budget would have increased local taxes by 6.3`I but would have cut £250,000 from voluntary groups in the town. At a September 2003 Cabinet the Conservatives threw out a proposal to secure three year funding of the voluntary sector through Grant Aid. This had been put forward by an all-party group which met throughout 2003 to decide the future of grant-aid funding. Strict criteria for allocating grants included: • addressing lifelong learning;

• looking after our environment; • working to achieve equality and social inclusion; • maintaining a strong local economy. Nobody I have spoken to likes paying tax. But for an extra £8 a year from every household the Labour/Lib Dem budget will see important voluntary sector and arts organisations survive for another year.

* On 17 March the Conservative run Cabinet agreed to undertake another investigation into setting up longterm assured funding contracts with voluntary and arts groups to remove the annual uncertainty that many face. Jo Osorio, director of Age Concern Swindon, welcomed the proposal providing that levels of grant funding are realistic, in order to meet the agreed targets.

Caught in a game of percentages The annual round of wrestling over council budgets and tax increases is over, unless the Government steps in and blocks the 7.3 per cent increase agreed by councillors. But let's be straight. Swindon does not have excessive council tax compared to neighbouring areas. Because no one party has a clear majority in Swindon, setting council tax is a political game where every year the Conservatives put forward a low tax proposal likely to result in big cuts in grants and Labour and LibDems go the other way to maintain the work of voluntary and arts groups. Accusations then flow fast and furious at the following local elections in the hope of achieving overall control of the council. Percentage rises can look big, but when applied to low figures the total is not a lot. Even with the 37 per cent tax increases imposed on Swindon residents over the last three years, tax levels here are lower compared to neighbouring authorities. In 2004 a band D property in Swindon will be £1,130. In North Wilts it will be £1,150 and in West Oxfordshire it was £1,154.

Style and sophistication at the heart of Swindon Looking for the perfect place to live? Look no further than Swindon. This year, Bloor Homes promises new properties that will satisfy even the most discerning homebuyer. Take the popular Saunders Brook at Priory Vale, boasting a stunning mix of homes from two-bed apartments up to five-bedroom townhouses. But there's more... This summer, two new locations for Priory Vale entitled The Grange and The Nurseries will offer a huge selection of stylish homes in a beautiful rural setting. The Belmont in Old Town is set to sport a contemporary collection of Lifestyle Apartments. While an exciting development within the previous site of Swindon's Princess Margaret Hospital will herald a host of quality apartments and homes. If its time you mapped out your future, it's time you made Bloor Homes in Swindon your destination. For information on all our current and forthcoming sites, please visit www.buildingforthefuture.co.uk

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The Link Magazine â€˘ April 200 4

Hreod art at hospital Youngsters attending the Great Western Hospital for treatment are being given the chance to broaden their studies with help from a group of artists from Hreod Parkway School. in hospital, or have to atEleven Year 8 students tend regularly for treatment, brought their lesson into the have their education dischildren's classroom in March rupted and they can become so that patients could take part quite isolated. We follow the in a craft project based on the national curriculum but conseaside theme decoration of the centrate on subjects like ward. maths, English, science and Together the group modelled ICT. It's really good that a clay fish which were taken bacl. school has been willing to to Hreod to be fired in a kiln. come in and work with us The students will return in early on something different." April for another session where Jessica Cattle, 13, from the fish will be decorated. One Highworth, who attends large collection of fish will be hospital daily said she enhung as a mobile in the bathjoyed the visit. "Doing an room. art project makes a nice Megan Brown, GWH home change; it's fun to be able to education manager, was detalk about school and other Art zoorking,,roup at the GWH, Hreod students and hospital patients with, lighted that the Hreod students things with people of my had made the effort to come to back from left, Hreod art teacher Claire Hoeing, classroom manager Megan Brown own age." the hospital. "Children who are and hospital teacher Lys Kirby

Choir helps brighten up children's ward The corridors of the special care baby unit at the Great Western Hospital have taken on a magical quality, thanks to fundraising by members of Swindon's Kentwood Choir. With their sponsorship, four large murals depicting woodland scenes, complete with fairies, birds, bees, butterflies and deer were painted earlier this year by local artists Toni Robinson of No Added Sugar together with Tracy Baker-Stewart and Maria Kelly. Left, Nathan Baxter with his son Jack Aslick with Toni Robinson and clinical nurse manager Alyson McSherry

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Dear Link magazine, My wife and I relocated from London to Swindon a year ago and we are now residents in the new Priory Vale development. Along with our move we started a new business. Hairworks hair salon. Understandably this was a nervous time for us. The Link magazine from day one proved to be the perfect media to advertise the salon. The results have been nothing short of fantastic and our business has gone from strength to strength. I cannot thank The Link enough for all your help and support during the early stage of our venture. Pcrnl

Smoke free campaign hots up in Swindon Swindon's Primary Care Trust and Swindon Council are putting the pressure on smokers to keep public buildings free of tobacco smoke. And on No Smoking Day, 10 March, they also launched a campaign to create smoke free areas in homes so that children's health is not damaged by second hand smoke. A free poster and stickers denoting which rooms should be smoke free in their homes are available by calling 0800 389 2229. Call this number if you want help with kicking the habit. Delta Tennis Centre was one of four Swim/on recreation centres to be awarded smoke free gold status which means the building is entirely smoke free. Head of trading standards Robert Taylour presents Delta manager Gail Light with the certificate. Other cen tres are the Health Hrld ro, Dorcan, Croft and Haydon Centres.

The Link Magazine • April 2004 9

Children don't have to become obese It's impossible to have ignored the spate of TV documentaries about obesity in the last few months and media coverage of the health problems resulting from poor diets and lack of exercise. Overweight children are a particular concern to doctors and the majority of parents. Fitness instructor and personal trainer Les Slinn looks at the problems and suggests ways of overcoming them. With the growth of fast food out- • Try not to let food become a power struggle, nor a means of lets and diets too high in sugar and reward or punishment. fat it's no wonder that more and more children are becoming obese- How do you counter the excuses it has been described as a modern about not exercising? epidemic. • 'None of my friends do it.' SugAbout 1 in 5 children are now gest a child be the one to inspire overweight and more are becom- others; sport is also a great way to ing severely overweight or obese. make new friends; Research suggests that the main ' 'I'd rather play computer games.'' problem is a continual lack of exer They can do both. When they are cise. Many overweight children fed up with the current game get have overweight parents which them out to play footsuggests this is a matball or on those bikes ter of family lifestyle. and start pedalling; To put the issue in • '1 can't be bothperspective, comBred.' Many people pare the amount of say that, but after exercise you took as they have exercised a child with what usually think 'I re' ._` children do today. ally enjoyed that!' All sorts of probGive it a go; lems can arise from the lack of exercise: • 'Its not cool.' Try tiredness, backache, telling that to topheadaches, joint flight footballers, problems, poor sleep rugby players and patterns, emotional athletes. Not everyand psychological body will be top level problems, which can lead to low but everybody will get a lot out of self—esteem. More worrying is the getting fitter. People who knock increase in diabetes in children and others about exercising are usuyoung adults, ally the ones who could not run to As a parent myself, I know the catch a bus if their lives depended struggles we all have with trying on it; to get our children to eat the right • 'Exercise is boring.' Try differthings and exercise enough. ent things, maybe sport is not for So what can we do? all, but ever thought about Scouts • Try and make long term changes or Guides? These organisations to healthy eating for all the offer all sorts of activities; family not just your children. • 'It's only for boys.' Many girls • Eat at least 5 portions of fruit find that some activities at school and vegetables a day; do not suit them but there are al• Reduce fat sugar and salt in food; ternatives such as martial arts, dance schools, swimming or gym• Cut down on the fizzy drinks nastics they can try. and increase water intake to keep Remember active parents have yourself hydrated. Perhaps just active children and the earlier you start with drinking water at start the easier it is to maintain a mealtimes .Two litres of water a healthy lifestyle. day is recommended for adults;

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Get the competitive spirit Tiny Tournaments, a weekly after school football tournament for West Swindon primary school children, will be launched on 20 !^ April at Westlea School: • 4pmto5.30pmfor6/7yearolds; • 5.30pm to 7pm for 8/9 years. The format for boys and girls moves away from the traditional after-school coaching session and provides an opportunity to play in a tournament each week, focusing on games and penalty shoot-outs. The aim is to supplement current football sessions and the accent will be on fun. All equipment will be of the highest quality and real goals, not cones or poles, will be used. All staff will be qualified football coaches. The tournaments are for individuals, not teams from established football clubs. For more details or an application form go to www.tinytoumaments.btintemet.co.uk or call Ian Turner on 872158 or

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10 The Link Magazine • April 2004

Front Garden fight to continue to the bitter end On 24 January a public meeting of Swindon Council's planning committee took place at the Wyvern Theatre to consider a developer's outline application to build 4.500 dwellings, a small industrial site, four schools, three village centres, and a park and ride site, on the land between Old Town and the Great Western Way and the M4. Building is proposed to start in 2006, taking about 15 years to complete. Ardent protester against the scheme Terry King explains why the Front Garden Action Group (FRAG) are continuing to object, even to the extent of telling house buyers why they should avoid the area. Was the planning committee they did not want logical argu- regulations or advisory documents unbiased recommendation regardmeeting on 24 January well at- ments to get in the way of their which had been ignored by the ing future housing development tended by the public? No; less than preconceived ideas. This was not council or the developer. in Swindon. 100 people turned up. Why? Be- democracy, it was the council doNo reply has yet been received, On 26 February 2004 after the cause most people were of the opin- ing what it usually does because it planning meeting, FRAG wrote but the Government Office for the ion that the council had made up has to - consult with the public - again to Mr Prescott, outlining the South West has asked for a three their mind long ago and that no but long after major planning has unsatisfactory nature of the plan- month extension to the normal views from the public would taken place and most decisions ning meeting, emphasising the period allowed for consideration, would be allowed to interfere with been made. No wonder the public amount of public opposition, and so the signs are that the appeals for the decision. How right they were. are apathetic and no longer bother listing major concerns which had an independent decision may have There were 17 objections by the to turn up at 'consultations' or to either been glossed over by the been effective. public on the day, including one challenge the council. council and the developer or igMeanwhile the Front Garden by Julia Drown MP, and one supWhat now? On 23 December nored altogether, eg sustainability, Action Group continues to fight porting the proposal, from the de- 2003, a month before the planning noise, pollution, traffic, flooding, against the development and have veloper's agent. Unsurprisingly meeting, Councillor Mike Bawden and (not even mentioned in any recently received encouraging evithe committee rejected all the ob- and four of his Conservative mem- documents) the danger to infants dence supporting their views from jections and voted 9 to 2 to accept bers wrote to the Deputy Prime of living in a wet boggy area, and the Environment Agency regardthe outline application. Minister John Prescott, asking him the absence of a Health Impact ing flooding, and from the AssoWas it a democratic meeting? to call-in the application and hold Assessment. He was again asked ciation of British Insurers about No. It was evident from the 148 a Public Local Enquiry. Coun to arrange an independent public insurance of buildings and conpage document, made available Bawden said he did this because enquiry to: tents in a known flood risk area. only at the meeting, that the coun- the council own about 75 per cent • examine the council's in-house If you have views on this procil had already made a decision. of the Front Garden, and with a Technical Appraisal of 1998 on posal it is not too late to make them What also made it obvious was probate income of about £200 mil- which the original decision to de- known. Write to Director of Develthat two weeks before the meeting lion expected from its sale could velop on the Front Garden was opment, Government Office for the the council had given notice of ter- not be regarded as impartial. based, and which has since been South West, 2 Rivengate, Temple mination of leases to the tenant On 9 January, the Front Garden proved to be completely biased; Quay, Bristol BS1 6ED, copy to Mr farmers on the Front Garden. It Action Group also wrote to the • consider the many factors which M Trewhella, Planning Departbecame even more obvious when Deputy Prime Minister, asking him have changed since 1998 and since ment SBC, Premier House, Station some councillors poured scorn on to call-in the application, and draw- the E.i.P. in 1999; Road, Swindon SN1 1TZ. objections and made it clear that ing attention to six government • give an up-to-date objective and To contact FRAG call 487154.

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12 The Link Magazine • April 200 4

Haydon Wick village still a strong community When a lost drayman trying to locate her pub was told by four different people in the vicinity of Safeway that there was no High Street in this part of Swindon, Fox and Hounds licensee, Ellen Lee, thought the world should know that Haydon village is still a vibrant community. Ellen, who has lived in the area for many years, told The Link that there is always a welcoming and friendly atmosphere in her pub. "We feel very much part of the community. We are a sort of dropin centre where people come for help and support, to make friends and even to find an obliging local tradesman. In fact the main reason I took over as licencee a year ago was that I felt it important that this community spirit be maintained." She was at the time a regular customer at the pub, living closeby. She is proud of the real ale and home cooked food which can be found there and the sense of community is enhanced by the regular Tuesday quiz nights and occasional karaoke sessions. The two hundred year old Fox and Hound boasts five darts teams, a golf society and cricket and football teams. Customers frequently raise funds for the Prospect Hospice and local charities. Ellen is assisted by another regular, Annie Gardiner who has served behind the bar for ten y ears and local volunteer Richard Walker helps out in the cellar. Other volunteers put in time and Ellen says she couldn' trunthebusinesswith-

out such back-up. She says there is a good relationship between the various organisations in the village, and cites as an example the Christmas carol service organised with the local church. The village has another purveyor of alcoholic beverages further along the High Street- the Haydon Wick Working Men's Club - which

seded in 1875 by a new building further along High Street, which in turn was replaced in 1974 by the current Haydon Wick Primary School. Like the Emmanuel Church, a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel located on The Brow was built in the middle years of the 19th Century. This building is now used by the 1st Swindon Sea Scout Group who play their part within the community, joining in the parade service at Emmanuel Church, helping the parish council to deliver Christmas parcels to the Haydon Wick elderly and collecting litter and assisting with the Scouts' Christmas postal service. Youngsters from 8 to 16 take part in the activities organised in the hall, known locally as 'the Wick'. Summer finds them at Lechlade practising their skills with kayaks and various boasts a skittle alley and puts on types of sailing craft. Further details of their activities can be found entertainment. At the Greenmeadow end of the on www.wiltshirescouts.org.uk/ High Street lies the United Re- lstswindon. More local youngsters could formed Church. Minister Andrew Francis has lived in Haydon Wick benefit if there were more leaders: for less than a year, but appreci- anyone interested in becoming inates the village atmosphere. "Over volved can contact Bryan McGaw the generations, those attending on 340702. Emmanuel Church have seen many

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changes. But High Street is still busy with both 'locals' and schoolchildren going on their daily journeys, giving it a feeling of a village community still." The church and its hall host several activities such as coffee mornings, a lunch club, parent and toddlers, Guides, Brownies and Rainbows. There are Sisterhood meetings for more religious reflections and a Thursday Group of ladies with guest speakers, demonstrations and trips out and fund raising for local charities. Details of all these activities can be obtained from Sue Martin on 722446.

Hidden away between Greenmeadow and Haydon Leigh it may be, but the hamlet of Haydon Wick has existed for a few more centuries than Abbey Meads and Priory Vale. In the 13th Century, it formed part of the land of the manorial lords of Lydiard Tregoze. Its best remembered resident is Catherine Wayte who endowed the village's first school house in 1806 and has a close, a school and a room in the Haydon Centre named after her. That school was super-

Since the 1960's Haydon Wick has seen housing development grow up around it, but has managed to retain its identity. It has lost its Post Office - much regretted, particularly since the closing of the Post Office at Safeway - and a number of other traders over the years, but keeps its enthusiasm to act as a community. In the past, The Link has featured the memories of local farmers DougCliffordofHaydonFarm and Alan and Valerie Trotman, formerly of the Grange Farm Nursery: it would be interesting to hear from readers with memories of the village itself before Greenmeadow appeared on its doorstep. My community If Alan Bushell's article on Haydon Wick has inspired you to write a piece on the neighbourhood you live in, call The Link on 872282.

The Link Magazine • April 2004 13

Dreams, memories, reflections in community art There's now a warm, brilliantly coloured welcome to the North Swindon library following the unveiling of a community artwork depicting scenes from Haydon Wick over the past 100 years. culty visualising what she had in mind when the project was first put it to us. But now that it has come together it is absolutely brilliant. You can see so much of Haydon Wick life in

Created by local artist Susan Carr, the project consists of over 200 individual wooden tiles painted by members of the Haydon Wick Over 60's club, several of whom have lived in Haydon Wick all their lives, and remember when it was just a tiny village sur-

miniature."

The work is one of several collaborative projects put forward by

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fields. Susan also worked with Year 5/6 children at Haydonleigh School who contributed tiles. The tiles have been assembled on an octagonal wooden backing board, around a central architectural montage, featuring the buildings of Haydon Wick, painted by local artist and illustrator Terry Humphries. The panels depict community groups, World War II and VE day, a GWR train, pets, shops and a number of abstract images. Susan said the project was based on the idea of a Mandala, which is the Tibetan word for wheel. "In this context the shape represents a circle of belief, awareness, or expression from the heart. Each tile is a mini work of art reflecting the diversity of people's lives in Haydon Wick, there is also a tile

by Haydon Wick Parish Council. She added that art in the community brings out so much untapped ability. "It is always a privilege and a joy to share art with others; human beings have an innate creativity, which deserves expression.,' • Susan, who gained her first degree in Design/ Illustration at Swindon College, is now studying for a MA in Art Therapy at the University of Hertfordshire, as well as continuing to work as a community artist and illustrator.

Susan Carr with Over 60s artists Joan Bridgentan and Pat Cutting. Standing from left, Bertll Bishop, Gwen Fleet, Joan Levick, Mary Miller

featuring The Link. "The overall effect of the painting is one of bright colours, jostling life and an overall cohesive feeling, encapsulating many dreams, memories and reflections." Pat Cutting, chair of the Over 60s club, said Susan's idea was a bit strange at first. "We had diffi-

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14 The Link Magazine • April 2004

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A group of Year 11 students from Hreod Parkway have made the commitment and booked their flights to British Columbia over the Easter holidays. But they have not reached the fundraising target yet and need to raise more money to cover their costs. The appeal by ten students was dian families and visit local schools changing experience for the students. "They have worked really featured in the March Link. In or- to compare experiences. A camping trip in the wilder- hard to plan this trip and have der to broaden their horizons the youngsters will stay with Cana- ness, complete with confidence been fund raising with great enbuilding activities, will be part of thusiasm. Now we've booked the the programme, and they are also tickets there's no going back, but PIANO & THEORY LESSONS planning to sleep over in the Van- we still need to attract more donacouver Aquarium to study marine tions to cover our costs.” Graded exams no obligation For details, or to offer sponsorlife. All ages welcome Hreod's Canadian teacher Nina ship, call Nina at Hreod Parkway Relaxed and . friendly atmosphere Brautigan said it would be a life School on 527999. Contact Nina Brautigan, front, with Martyn Shakespeare, Nathan Gough. Back, from left, Mrs G Bush CTABRSM Tim Hunt, Alice Keith, Louise Curtis, Stewart Hawkins

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Year 5 children at Brook Field were set a project to research the changes in the geography around their school. Kimberley Treen. Jennifer Martin and Lucy Johnson chose to investigate the effects of the walk to school policy introduced by the school governors and wrote to The Link about it. This is their article.

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shelter and a bus shelter on Cartwright Drive, to encourage more children to walk, cycle or take the bus to school. We have been asking the question, have these changes made routes to school safer and recorded the results Kimberley, Jennifer and Lucy with their letter to The Link from all the classes in front of the Brook Field bike shelter and racks to see if more children are coming to school differ- have found that more children and ently, and if cars are going slower. adults are walking and cycling, We have done this by looking at but not many use the bus. the maps of routes to school drawn In the future we would like to by children in 2002 and in 2004. see even more children walking We also wrote to school staff and cycling to school and we would and parents to see how many of like to ask more parents to help them walk, cycle or use a bus. We them by leaving the car at home.

The Link Magazine â€˘ April 2004 15

Making noise frees the spirits during art week Youngsters at Catherine Wayte Primary School in Abbey Meads had a crashing time during an art week in mid-March when the Kaya Drumming School ran a day of workshops. During the week themed 'Our wonderful world,' the children also created paintings, pottery and visited the library to research the cultures and

creatures of the planet. The Jam Tart Company will be in school on 1 April to help children make a giant mosaic and parents are being invited to see displays of the work during the afternoon. Right, Year 1 children making lots of noise with Kaya

School joins mass poetry recitation The children at Oliver Tomkins Infant School took part in a world record attempt on 19 March by joining other schools across Britain in a mass simultaneous rendition of William Wordsworth's famous daffodil poem I wandered lonely as a cloud to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care. The event formed part of the charity's daffodil campaign and also marked the bi-centenary of the poem written in 1804. Full of the joys of spring. Practicing the 200 year old words of Wordsworth, from left, Georgia Savin, Benjamin White, Bethany Taylor, Sam Prictor, Georgia Forde, Angelica Koppoe, Lauren Gaff, Katie Scott, Gemma Lucas

^ n: an edut tion for life r your child wants to achieve in life, undation in maths and English al. With the year-round Kumon nes, children develop confidence, and study skills that last them a lifetime Nest Swindon Centre Millicent Parish Hall lard Bell on 01285 711170 pen 4.00pm to 6.00pm 3 and Thursdays 'or almost 50 years. children around the world have benefited row studying the Kumon maths and language programmes. 45,000 children of all ages and abilities are currently enrolled it study centres throughout the UK.

School set challenge for greater improvement An Ofsted report on Greendown Community School in Grange Park identified 88 per cent of lessons seen as satisfactory or better with 54 per cent being good, very good or excellent. History, geography, engineering, ICT, art, drama, PE, business studies and work related courses all receive positive comments for high standards of achievement and good or excellent teaching. The school closely monitors pupils' academic performance and personal development and has an excellent system for tracking and monitoring individuals' progress. The accommodation has been improved and is now excellent in maths and very good in PE. The improved resources and the considerable investment in ICT is having a positive impact on standards. The report recognises the school's very good links with the community, in particular its feeder primary schools, and the relationship with local businesses is having a positive effect on achievement. Eighteen out of the 148 lessons observed were rated unsatisfactory or poor and the report comments on the poor behaviour of some pupils, particularly in Years 7, 8 and 9. These issues are described as serious weaknesses which need to be addressed by improving the quality and consistency of teaching and learning in order to raise pupils' achievements further. There also needs to be improvement in the consistency, rigour, and accuracy of monitoring and evaluation. Headteacher Steve O'Sullivan commented, "with 88 per cent of lessons judged to be satisfactory or better, the inspectors have provided a clear focus for the school to build on the strengths identified. We see this as an opportunity to raise standards still further."

16 The Link Magazine â€˘ April 2004

South Africa connections spread A project to create greater educational and cultural links between Swindon and a South African community is building in momentum and attracting wider support following a visit by teachers from the town during February half term. Peatmoor School headteacher Johannesburg. This time they were with Moraiting, the secondary cause not everybody speaks the same language so we used a lot of Terri Peacock and three colleagues joined by Greendown School school serving the district, All the schools serve black town- colourful cloth, dance, masks and made another visit to the Clarens teacher Cristina Bennett and Steve district, about three hours from Ateyo from Wootton Bassett ship populations though Dihla- movement to show how the world berg, being a church-based school was formed. At times there must School. Peatmoor has devel- is breaking down race barriers and have been 200 people following us oped close links with is educating both black and white to the different performances. "It was fantastic to see the equipDihlabeng School over the children. The December Link front page ment we sent out in December in last two years and now Westrop School in featured children from Peatmoor use. Imagine a child roller skating Highworth is connected with members of Swindon Family on a single skate so that more chilwith Clarens primary Church packing items to be sent to dren could have a go. They were Clarens for distribution to local whizzing about in perfect balance. school. "And it was lovely to show the Greendown is going to families and for use at Dihlabeng s ^iriw ^+ develop a relationship school. A large quantity of cloth- pictures back atPeatmoorandhear ing, school equipment and sewing a child say, 'I sent that.' __ _ ' h D ii hl a eng is Th, t1 , k b f a communr ty emmach"mes or ployment project, collected by fundedbyaDepartmentofEducaPeatmoor, the church and tion and Skills Building Bridges Leadenhall School, near Salisbury grant to promote global citizenwas shipped out with the help of ship. Peatmoor is also working with schools in Sweden and Spain the Army.

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Terri said the aim of the half through the European Union term trip was to see how the items Comenius Project and they might were being used and to review the become involved with Dihlabeng. employment project and to take "The potential for developing part in classroom and community our links with Clarens is huge," activities. This included painting a said Teri. "It is becoming an intemural, top left, on the side of a gral part of being at Peatmoor. I'm school building and to work with delighted other schools like Greendown, arebuilding relationchildren on a drama project. "We decided to tell the creation ships. Wouldn't it be great if the story on the streets of the town- connections spread across the ship. It had to be very visual be- whole of Swindon?" Building bridges. Peatmoor children with teacher Melanie Brough, working on the second SSlinks newsletter, which explains their project with Dihlabeng School. The theme of the next edition is the Rights and Responsibilities of the child

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Three day cake sale launches pre-school registration drive Westlea pre-school has come up with a novel way of raising money and attracting new children for the year starting in September. Volunteer parents will be run- about the group. Children can be ning a cake stall outside the play- registered from as young as twelve group room at Westlea School on months and parents are welcome Langstone Way from 2.45pm on to visit at any time by appointTuesday 30, Wednesday 31 March ment. and Thursday 1 April. The proWestlea pre-school are sure ceeds of the sales will be used to they've come up with the recipe buy equipment and resources for for success in preparing children the children attending the popular for the transition between home pre-school. and school. If you cannot get to the cake sale, It will be a good time for parents looking for a place for their pre- call 881785 for details of registraschool children to find out more tion.

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Wrigglers Parent and Toddler group has places on Monday, 1pm to 2.30pm, in the community room at Abbey Meads Primary School. Babies and toddlers and their parents are welcome to take part in free play with equipment and craft activities. The cost is £1.25 which includes refreshments. The group has been made possible by the Children's Information Services and the Pre-School Learning Alliance with a grant from Swindon Council. For details of the group call Lisa Carr on 700141.

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The Link Magazine • April 2004 19

Link to sponsor Storysacks tenth year celebration at Festival of Literature children's day Swindon idea will now explain the universe in partnership with European Space Agency There's a chance to take part in a world class education project first developed in West Swindon, in early May when former Westlea School headteacher Neil Griffiths will be demonstrating Storysacks to children at Lower Shaw Farm. Ten years ago Neil recruited a fined - prisons, hospitals, with tra y - meets termly to keep them in touch Sign up for a group of volunteer mums to help eller families, with refugees and in with developments. "I'm so grateStorysack session ful for their hard work, commithimdeveloptheideaofaStorysack bi-lingual situations. "The idea is so simple that it can ment and creativity. Well over a which he thought would helpboost Neil is running Storysacks million people literacy skills in the early workshops at the Swindon Festival around the world years of childhood. of Literature Children's Day on have had the chance Since the first meetSunday 9 May at Lower Shaw Farm, to use Storysacks. ing when he explained in association with The Link. Pick up "Moving from what he had in mind to a Festival programme in a library. education into busithe group of curious parness has been a ma- www.swindonfestivalofliterature. co.uk ents, who then used jor challenge. Being their artistic and organa headteacher is deising skills to make the manding and excitfirst Storysack, the coning in a trusting, carcept has become a world ing environment, leader in language acd usicitt It s but the world of quisition across the UK business is both and abroad, as well as Fun song sessions competitive and cut being used as a tool for = ^= for parents and children cultural and community Neil launching his latest children's story book 'The Scarecrow throat; there are peo6 months to 5 years ple out there ready development. Who Didn't Scare' with illustrator Vicki Leigh to copy ideas withClasses on Tuesday, In a few months a Storysack will be launched by the be easily adapted and it goes be- out a second thought. I have to Thursday & Friday in European Space Agency as an edu- yo nd language development with work hard to keep focused on what North Swindon Library cational tool to explain the planets chi ldren. It's incredible to think will benefit children's developCome along and join in and space travel. tha t Storysacks are in use on oppo- ment." The Corner to Learn catalogue The first Storysacks made by the site sides of the Arctic circle; in the furl parents were cloth bags contain- no rthern Canada sacks are used can be obtained by calling 421168. Call 01793 727286 or ing a picture book to be read by a by Innuit people to develop lan- Storysacks products can be seen at email: info€?minimusicians.co.uk child and parent along with soft gu age and reinforce cultural iden- www.storysack.com for details toys of the main characters with tity ,and on the other side in northprops and scenery to illustrate the ern Norway they are used in a story. A non-fiction book linked to sisin' way with Laplanders. It's the topic, an audio-tape and a lan- mu ch the same in the townships of guage game based on the book So uth Africa." were included with an ideas card Funding from the Basic Skills suggesting further ways for par- Ag ency ended last year and Neil ents to develop a child's listening, has set up his own company, Correading and writing skills. net to Learn, which offers Neil parted company with Sto rysacks training and consulPrincess Christian Day Nursery Westlea School in 1997 to under- tan cy and also sells ready made Peatmoor Village Centre take a five year project funded by sac ks. Several agencies have cornShearwood Road, Peatmoor, Swindon the Basic Skills Agency to demon- mi ssioned special sacks: to teach strate Storysacks around Britain. roa d safety, to promote historical They are now to be found in every un derstanding on either side of • Quality care and education local education authority, as well the Scottish English border and for 0 to 5 year olds as family centres and prisons. als o the Forestry Commission. • 100 place purpose built In 1999 the project won the Eu- En glish Heritage is looking at deday nursery ropean Alcuin award for innova- vet oping a Storysack based on casI1 tion in education which attracted tle s. r Open 7.30am to 6.00pm even more interest from around The European Space Agency • Ideal for parents workin g —..^^ the world. Neil travels extensively co omission came as a surprise said in the town centre f show off Storysacks and has run Ne il. "I had a fantastic visit to their workshops in Canada, USA, Hong he adquarters in Holland and they • dropping off area & car par Kong, South Africa, Japan, Peru, ha ve made available their library • t Secure lawned outdoor play area ([/ Australia, Italy and Norway. of photographs for use in a book He has made several trips to an d a sack, plus CD and teachers' • Registered by OFSTED e now • China and just been contracted by gui de. It should be spectacular." • Friendly and Garin`* staff Neil's career as a children's authe Chinese government to train videapp y The friendliest nurser in town! Storysack demonstrators to spread tho r is also developing with a range the concept within its education of i llustrated books on sale. 3e has invented Smartscapes, system. med plastic scenery for use in a Neil continues to be amazed by id tray to stimulate imaginative how Storysacks continues to grow. "I keep thinking we have reached y and discussion. There's also a ,yer table top version as a backa plateau, but the enquiries keep ound for role play. coming; it's both surprising and Jeil said he never forgets the gratifying to hear how Storysacks are used in places I never imagt Storysacks volunteers who he

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20 The Link Magazine • April 2004

Lunch club cooks up success Since opening at the beginning of January the newly reopened lunch club in Toothill Community Centre has been a hit with its members. Run by four volunteers led by cook Sue Hall, 48 of the 50 places are taken weekly. It costs £2 to register as a member and £2 each week for the lunch cooked on the premises. Mary Matthews said, "I was really glad the volunteers came forward to restart the club. They cook a lovely meal; it's great value for money." Not all members book in every week, so there are places for newcomers. For details call Annette Kennedy on weekday mornings on 614492. Right, Volunteer Lisa Score serving dessert to Mary Matthews, Ethyl Griffin and Mary Brookes

Lunch club jumble sale & car boot sale Saturday 3 April, 12.30pm - 3.30pm, Freshbrook Community Centre In aid of Freshbrook Food and Friends lunch club Jumble donations wanted. Call 871017. Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 9am - 12noon. Call also to book car boot pitches at £5 Advertisement

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Swing low in Swindon as the cup comes to town Forget the drubbing by Ireland in the Six Nations a few weeks ago, England arethe rugby world champions and if you want to relive those glorious nail biting moments of last November, there is only one place to be on Easter Saturday 10 April between 9am and 12noon. The William Webb Ellis World Cup lifted high by Martin Johnson on that fateful night in Australia will be on display at the Brunel Centre. underneath the Link Bridge on Canal Walk. A photographer will be on hand to take a once in a lifetime picture.

Wiltshire Festival return on a knife edge As The Link goes to press a decision on whether the Wiltshire Festival in Lydiard Park will return over the Bank Holiday is about to be made. Having not taken place in 2003 whilst organisational and promotional issues were sorted out, the new promoters are waiting for a very big headline act to sign up for what will again be the region's largest outdoor music event.

The money raised will be donated to the Prospect Hospice. which cares for the terminally ill. Pip Laycock, Marketing Manager of the Brunel Centre commented, "we are so excited and honoured to be chosen as the venue for this event. "The Brunel is one of only two viewings of the cup in Wiltshire as it is taken on its whistle stop tour of the country." The Brunel will be organising a host of other rugby related activities to keep children amused whilst the adults can reminisce about where they were at the fateful moment Wilkinson's drop goal sailed over. Details of these activities will be released nearer 10 April.

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Brunel's birthday plans You could call Isambard Kingdom Brunel the original Mr Swindon. It was he who launched an industrial revolution in an innocent valley close to a hilltop hamlet by declaring it an excellent spot to build an engineering work for his Great Western Railway. between London and Bristol. That was in the 1 830s. Now he's the second most famous Britain according to a BBC TV poll, even if his father was French. According to a six part series on HTV showing at present, this buccaneer knew no bounds in his drive to achieve ground breaking feats of engineering, even if his workers perished in the process. To mark the bi-centenary of his birth in 2006, early plans are being made for educational, cultural, scientific and engineering events across the region. Initial discussions have taken place in Swindon to see if we can offer up anything to mark his memory by way of an exhibition at Steam Museum. www.bristol2008.com

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Children and family Dance Saturday 17th, 7.30pm events

All or Nothing presented by Fay

Saturdays 3rd & 17th Meet the Railway Workers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers as they bring stories of the steam age to life with practical demonstrations and accounts of their experiences. Normal admission charges. STEAM Saturday 3rd to Sunday 18th The Crocodile's Nest - holiday trail. Can you trace all the baby crocs back to their nest. 60p, drop in activity. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 3 to Sunday 18th Easter Trail. Special Easter quizzes for the whole family.Norma/ admission charges. STEAM Saturday 3rd to Sunday 18th Easter Bunny - holiday trail. Can you help all the little rabbits find the Easter Bunny? £1.30 (incl admission), drop in activity. Lydiard House Tuesday 6th, 2pm Dave Arthur's Story Box. Share in some of the enthralling, humorous and inspirational folk tales, myths, fables and legends that encourage hope wonder and celebration of life from around the world. £6, children £5. Brewery Arts. Cirencester Tuesday 6th, 2pm to 4pm Easter Fun. Make decoupage Easter eggs, chicks in baskets or design Easter cards. For ages 5- 11. £2.50. Booking advised. Lydiard House Friday 9th and Saturday 10th, 11am to 4pm Hot Cross Bun Special (diesel)train rides. Swindon & Cricklade Railway, for details call 771615 Sunday 11th and Monday 12th, 11am to 4pm Easter Bunny steam train rides. Swindon & Cricklade Railway, for details call 771615 Thursday 15th, 2pm to 4pm Printing and Weaving Workshop Weaving and designing for ages 5 11. £2.50. Booking advised. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Lower Shaw Farm „ . Old Shaw Lane, Shaw Easter Holiday Activity Day for 5 to 12 year olds Wednesday 7 April, 10.30am to 3.30pm. Spring into action round the farm. Dip below the pond's surface to see what's there. Try your hand at making a pop-up card or a miniature garden, follow the Easter egg treasure hunt and bake some hot cross buns too. £15. Book a place on 771080

Pound and Kelly Sutton. Two talented local dancers perform pieces ranging from ballet via contemporary to popular jazz to raise money for the Arts Centre. £6. Arts Centre Monday 19th, 7.30pm Bobbi's School Of Dance. If dancing was easy they'd call it football - local dance school performing a mix of entertaining dance styles. £7.50. Wyvern

Wednesday 21st, 8pm Phoenix Dance Theatre, above, makes a welcome return to Swindon with a company of outstanding dancers and new work from international choreographers. £11. Wyvern

Friday 30th April & Saturday 1st May, 7.30pm Jenny Sullivan Dance School. Ballet, tap and jazz performed by the 300 strong cast of pupils in this their 20th show. £8.50. Wyvern

Easter Craft Show Sunday 4 April, 10am - 4.30pm Village Hall, Station Road, Purton Admission 50p In aid of Purton Helping Hand To book a table or a craft class, call Lynda Warren on 771453

Venues The Arts Centre. Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Brewe ry Arts, Cirencester. Tel: 01285 655522 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 National Monuments Record Centre. Kemble Drive. Tel: 414600 Richard Je fferies Museum. Marlborough Road. Tel: 466556 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane, Blunsdon. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios Tel: 463210 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Or in April Comedy

Music

Thursday 1st to Saturday 3rd, 7.30pm The Vagina Monologues. Hilarious, original and throughly human stories about women and their sexuality based on interviews with a diverse group of women. Starring Alison Newman, Ann Charleston and Andrea Oliver. £15. Wvvern

Thursday 1st, 8pm Craobh Rua. Traditional fare at its fi nest, mixing rousing jigs, reels and polkas with tender ballads and airs. £8.50. Brewery Arts, Cirencester

Tuesday 27th, 8pm An Evening with Leslie West. This whiskey-voiced American singer/ guitarist, left, first came to prominence with Mountain, making an electrifying debut at Woodstock in 1969. Playing electric and acoustic guitars, Leslie is joined by Sheryl Crow guitarist Todd Wolfe, with support from Del Bromham. £12. Arts Centre. Friday 30th, 7.30pm Incredible String Band. Reformed in 2000, the band comprises founder members, Mike Heron (guitar) and Clive Palmer (banjo) plus keyboard player Lawson Dando and singer/ multi-instrumentalist Fluff. £13.50.

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Sunday 4th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series. Sally Stocks (flute) and Paul Turner (piano) with a programme of sonatas by Schubert, Reinecke and Nicholas Goodall. £9, free for accompanied children under 14. For details or to book call 612775. Arts Centre Wednesday 14th, 7.30pm Punt & Dennis - Live 2004. Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis (right), stars of The Now Show (Radio 4) and It's Been a Bad Week (Radio 2) with a new sketch show. £12.50. Arts Centre

Friday 16th, 8pm Gary Le Strange: Polaroid Suitcase. This lovingly authentic show is one for anyone around in the early '80s. Gary (above) offers spot on banter, outfits and makeup to set the scene, but it is the songs from his album Polaroid Suitcase which are the core to his performance. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 22nd, 7.30pm Bernard Manning. Adult comedy with the master of stand-up! Stay away if easily offended. £12. Wyvern

Talks Friday 30th, 7.30pm Swindon in Focus. David Bedford from The Swindon Society, takes a nostalgic look at Swindon over the last Century. captured in a slide show of eye-catching postcards and photographs. £4. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Sunday 4th Dominic Kirwan. Wyvern Monday 5th to Saturday 10th, Mon 7.30pm; Tues - Thurs 2.30pm & 7.30pm; Fri & Sat 5pm & 8pm Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs. £10.50-£23.50. Wyvern Thursday 8th, 8pm The Muffin Men with special guest Jimmy Carl Black. Some outstanding musicianship from this band formed to celebrate the music of Frank Zappa. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 15th, 8pm Last Night's Fun. With a passion for traditional Irish music and a natural li ne in patter, this three piece concertina/uiIlean n pipes/guitar band offer a seriously good night out. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 15th - 17th, 7.30pm & Sat 2.30pm Little Shop Of Horrors. Phase II present the hit musical based on the blockbuster film starring Rick Moranis. £8. Wyvern

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Sunday 18th, 7.30pm Soul Explosion. £14. Wyvern Friday 23rd, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra play Mozart Symphony No 32, Mozart Clarinet Concerto and Beethoven Symphony No 3. £13.50 - p18.50. Wyvern Monday 26th, 7.30pm Steeleye Span - 35th Anniversary Tour. Featuring Maddy Prior. £12 & £ 15.50. Wyvern Tuesday 27th April, 7.30pm Joe Longthorne. An evening of song and laughter with the UK's number 1 vocal entertainer. £15 & £16.50. Wyvern

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Tuesday 6th, 7.45pm Mystic River (15) Director Clint Eastwood's acclaimed and complex exploration of difficult relationship stars Tim Robbins, Sean Penn, and Kevin Bacon as longstanding friends brought together when the daughter of one of them is murdered. £4. Arts Centre

Arts Centre Until 24 April Fusion A new collection of oil paintings by Gordon Dickinson. Wyvern, Circle Bar Until 30 April Showcase Featuring contemporary work by Swindon artists.

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Wednesday 7th, 4.45pm Max (15) Adolf Hitler as nice guy, thwarted artist? As if! ... But this fictional story about young Hitler in Munich 1918, making friends with Max, a Jewish art dealer, who urges him towards art, makes us think about the consequences of our actions. Swindon Film Society Tuesday 13th, 7.45pm Seabiscuit (PG) The true story of a racehorse outsider who inspired popular adulation, Seabiscuit is also an iconic tale of the hopes and fears, collapse and recovery of America during the Depression. Starring Jeff Bridges, Tobey Maguire. Chris Cooper and William H Macy. £4. Arts Centre Wednesday 28th, 7.45pm The Clay Bird (U) Bangladesh Winner of the International Critics Prize at Cannes in 2002, this is the story of Anu, as he experiences changing values and religious upheaval in East Pakistan in the years leading to the formation of Bangladesh. Subtitled. Swindon Film Society Thursday 29th, 7.45pm The Shape of Things (15) Neil le Bute asks whether we have the rightto shape other people's lives, even for their own apparent good, in this film adaptation of his own play. Rachael Weisz is enticing as Eve, an artist who gradually transforms her lover Adam. £4. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society All films are shown at the Arts Centre; tickets are not sold in advance; society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre; join when purchasing tickets.

Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Until 16 May Swindon in Focus. Photographs by Denis Bird taken mostly in 1960's capture the town in transition. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Fab Forty! Forty works of the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art have been chosen to celebrate the Art Gallery's 40th birthday.

Theatre Wednesday 21st to Saturday 24th, 7.30pm Home and Beauty presented by The Phoenix Players. Somerset Maugham's witty `farce of words' set in 1918. £5, tickets from 525616, 3pm to 8pm only. Arts Centre

Workshops Wednesday 14th to Friday 16th, 10am to 4pm Magic of Watercolour. Peter Robinson leads this friendly and informal introduction to watercolour painting, suitable for beginners. Bring your own materials. £18. Arts Centre

Tootleabrook WI The WI meet at Toothill Community Centre on Wednesday 21 April, 7.30pm. Mrs Cilia Slipper will talk about Swindon - A Town of Surprises. All welcome. For more details call Jean Brock on 539456

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Swindler Wide An important record of Swindon in the past A free exhibition at Swindon Museum & Art Gallery in Old Town which runs until 16 May looks back at Swindon's recent past, writes museum curator Isobel Thompson. 'Swindon in Focus' is a rather special exhibition because it pays trib-

ute to two individuals who between them made huge contributions towards the history of Swindon. It also shows a glimpse of a wonderful collection of photographs. most of which have not been seen in public for 30 years or more. The photographs were taken by Denis Bird. who lived in Swindon from 1940 until his death in October 20C1. He worked for the Great

Western Railway for more than forty years and pur-

sued his hobby as an ama-

Pillars of the Baptist Tabernacle on Regent Street. opposite the Town

teur photographer with professional enthusiasm: his images are anything but amateurish. He was a long-time member of the Swindon Camera Club, and a founder member of the Swindon Society in the 1970s. He began taking photographs of the town during the 1940s and continued

Hall

through the 1960s and

Girls out for a hike in the 1960s pictured by Denis Bird. Who are they? 1970s. These were years when Swindon was changing enormously: old buildings were doubt. was choosing the photo- volumes have been produced. When Denis died in 2001 he left coming down, new ones going up. graphs. It was not easy to draw up Denis was there with his cam- a shortlist. They were all so good. his photographs to Brian. Brian era. catching the moment. He had In the end we decided to show a himself died in April 2003, after a the knack of being in the right place selection which tell something of long fight against cancer. at the right time. So we see the his breadth of skill as a photograDespite his illness, in the months Town Hall through the scaffolding pher. So there are many photo- before his own death, Brian was of Swindon College. the old Post graphs of Swindon. but there is hard at work cataloguing and idenOffice in Regent Circus being de- also portraiture and still life. tifying the photographs so that they The exhibition is dedicated to could become a useful resource. molished, the Baptist Tabernacle being cleaned, a 1960s bus driving Brian Bridgeman. He and Denis Work continues to ensure a safe along High Street and the Brunel were friends fora longtime, founder future for this outstanding collecshopping centre under construc- members of the Swindon Society tion of images. and instrumental in publishing the The ground floor exhibition is ti on. The hardest task during the Society's 'Swindon in Old Photo- free to enter, so do please pay us preparation of this display, without graphs' book series. To date six a visit.

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Cheers to the next 1,000 editions A bottle of bubbly presented by the Mayor of Swindon was enjoyed on 3 March to celebrate 1,000 episodes of the town's most eagerly awaited news medium, the Swindon Talking Newspaper. ways very appreSince 1981 a ciative." group of stalwart volMembers of the unteers have read, Swindon Talking recorded and posted NewspaperAssoout taped highlights ciation (STAN) of local newspapers also record inforand magazines inmation tapes for cluding The Link to Swindon Council blind and partially and special items sighted people in and for users. around Swindon. The production Sixty were sent out team don't go in at first, now 220 peofor rebranding ple receive the tapes and makeovers to free of charge. freshen up its Founder organBack in the readers chairs, from left, Dave Ellis. Shirley Ludford, iser, well known lopresentation. UsJoan Cheshire. Back, from left, Barbara Naylor, Mike Wood. Donald ers like the contibroadcaster. cal Howse. John Vickey, James Ludford. who read on the first tapes as nuity they've alShirley Ludford said a five year old ways known and she had responded to a letter in the Evening Advertiser quently interrupted when the toilet the 90 minute cassettes still follow calling for a taped news service. "It was flushed closeby or the dog the original format established was unique at first: it took local barked. The listeners loved the in- when it started: news items on one side, magazine features on the radio several years to start up in formality and atmosphere." the area. For the first time people One of the original readers Joan other. STAN is now based at Craven with little or no sight were able to Cheshire said she used to listen to li sten to news in their own time. the tapes and the radio wearing House on Victoria Road. New volrather than rely on somebody to dark glasses or a blindfold to try unteer readers are always welcome read the paper for them. and get an idea of how her read- to join the production team, as well "We recorded the first few tapes ings were received by people with- as new users to receive the tapes. at Swindon Viewpoint cable TV in out sight. "We had tremendous fun Call 522511 or mail: stan@swindon the town hall studios then set up putting the tapes together and the talking news .0rg.uk www.swindontalkingnews.org.uk camp in my attic. We were fre- comments from listeners were al-

PJuII

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At Studley Grange Câ€˘ .. . ('dI, 4 R there is a huge range of beautiful and interesting _, y handcrafted gifts. many of which are skillfully created on site.Not only a great place to shop but also an interesting and interactive experience. Tel: 01793 854606 Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park, Hay Lane, Swindon, Wilts SN4 9QT

Welcome to the eleventh Swindon Festival of Literature! I -IS May 2004 And it's into a second literary decade we go, celebrating and enjoying words, stories, and ideas.We have novelists and poets, biographers and diarists, commentators and critics, writers and speakers, on art, gardening, global warming, therapy, law, history, religion, culture, crime, communes, sport, neuropsychology, relationships, philosophy, and even crop circles and prime numbers! The Festival is an opportunity, in Swindon, to see, hear, and meet the men and women who take pains to write, who treat language as a precision instrument and set out to use it well. Every kind of writing on offer, every different talk, and every story told at the Festival is not only a way of being informed, distracted, or entertained, but also a way to discover more that is delightful, dangerous, or difficult about ourselves. L9

Self discovery, like bungee jumping or falling in love, is a risky but pleasurable and life-affirming activity! This year's Festival begins, as ever, with fun and the rising sun, at dawn on that high ridge overlooking the town in Lawn Woods on May Day morning; and is followed by fifteen days of literary treats for every age and taste, in one long celebration of things well written and things well said. On most days there will be three or more events, at midday, teatime, and in the evening, carefully spaced and placed, to enable you to attend almost every event, should you have the stamina! For the full at-a-glance Festival diary, see overleaf. Pick up a full 32-page brochure at your local library or leisure centre, or telephone 771080. And then, mark your own diary, so that during the first fifteen days of May you join us for Swindon's very own communion of words: cool communication, serious stuff and comic guff, all there to help us celebrate life and love literature, together! Please read on, and come along. MATT HOLLAND Festival Organiser

Saturday 1st May DAWN CHORUS — Lawn Woods,The High Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01 793 771080

5.30am!

VILLAGE CRICKET — with Tim Heald, Museum &Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

12 noon

BENJAMIN ZEPHANIAH —Arts Centre, Devizes Road,Tel:01793 614837

7.00 pm

DcwnChorus— tst

unday 2nd May

WRITING DAY &A HALF — Lowe r Shaw Farm,West Swindon Tel: 01793 771080 STORYT ELLING _TWIG S Gardens, Cheney Manor Tel: 01793 523294

1 I a m, I p m, 3pm

Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May HISTORIC GARDE NS of WILTSH IRE — Lydiard Hou se, Lydiard ParkTe l: 01793 770401

7.00 pm

Tuesday 4th May

r;,„ Hen^d _ ; ;

TEXT MESSAGES — with Andrew Wilson, Museum &Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 46655612.30 pm r^

•

CLIVE JAMES — Wyvern Theatre,Theatre Square Tel: 01 793 524481

7.30 pm

GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING — a film — Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

7.45 pm

Wednesday 5th May '4cr Hm ey — Wnong Doy — 2nd

^.,,.

ELIZABETH GEORGE —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel:01793 614837

12.30 pm

__ _ "._..-

ANNE MUSTOE —West Swindon Library, Link Centre Tel: 01793 465555

1.15 pm

MUSIC OFTHE PRIMES — Marcus du Sautoy, Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

6.00 pm

MARK H ADD ON —

8.00 pm

A rts C entre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 61483 7

Thursday 6th May SWINDON LIBRARIES FESTIVAL DAY OUT —The Parade, Swindon Tel: 01793 465555 Andrew

Wilson — 4ffi

8.30 am — 4.00 pm CROP CIRCLES — Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

,zcteu, George

s,,,

12.30 pm

HELENA KENNEDY QC, Clive Brain Memorial Lecture, Swindon College, Regent Circus Tel: 01793 498300 No charge. No need to b ook.

5.00 pm

TONY BENN — Free Radical — Wyvern Theatre,Tel: 01793 524481

7.30 pm

THE UNEXPE CT ED MAN —A Play.Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

7.30 pm

Friday 7th May TIM GUEST — My Life in Orange — Museum &Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

SeanHugh^s_>h

12.30 pm

SIMON JENKINS — on Best Houses — Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 01 793 770401

6.00 pm

TERRY EAGLETON — Museum &Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556

7.30 pm

SEAN HUGHES—Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8.00 pm

Satu rday 8 th May MATT HEW COLLINGS — on art — M useu m & Art G alle ry, B ath Road Tel: 01 793 4 66556

Mvtthcw Coli^ngs — 6dr

1 2.30 pm

A LITTLE PRINCESS — a play — Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel : 01 793 6 1483 7

2.30 pm

SYLVIA — a film — Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

7.45 pm

POEMS & PINTS —Town Hall, Regent Circus Tel: 01793 463210

8.00 pm

Sunday 9th May CHILDREN & FAMILIES DAY — Lower Shaw Farm West Swindon Tel: 01793 771080 10.00 am — 4.00 pm CAMPF IRE & STORYTELL ING — Lower Shaw Farm , West Sw in don Tel: 01793 771080

Monday 10th May

' =*

7.00 pm

► Camp,re and storytelling — 9rh

TOM HOLLAND — on the Roman Republic —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837 12.30 pm COLIN SELL - Arts Cen tre, Devizes Road Tel: 01 793 614837

6.00 pm

KAREN ARMSTRONG —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01 793 614837

8.00 pm

Tu esday 11th May HUMPHREY CARPENTER - on Spike Milligan - Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837 12.30 pm

SARAH DUNCAN —Write Now! — North Swindon District Library Tel: 01793 707120

Carn Sell- lo.

7.00 pm

THERAPY TODAY — with DOROTHY ROWE & FRANK FUREDI —A ts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

8.00 pm

Wednesday 12th May PAULINE PERRY —The Womb in Which I Lay —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01 793 614837 12.3 0 pm AN NE FIN E

University of Bath in Swindon, Oakfield Campu s, Tel: 01793 771080

BARRY CRIER — Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837 J OAN BAKEWELL —Arts Centre, Dcvizes Road Tel: 01793 614837

Thursday I3th May

FronkF—af,- Ire

4.00 pm 6.00 pm

` fi r!

8 pm

---

Barry Cryer— F2th

CRIMINAL MINDS — with SARAH DIAMOND & JOHN FULLERTON — Museum & Art Gallery, 12.30 pm Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556 ANNE FINE —WITH GREAT PLEASURE Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 6148 3 7

5.00 pm

LAURIE TAYLOR —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel:01793 614837

8.00 pm

Friday 14th May J ONATHON PORRITT - Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 01793 614837 BOB FLOWERDEW —Arts Centre, Devizes Road Tel: 017 9 3 614837

12.30 pm

Laur^eroy;°r- I;,:ry

6.00 pm

PAUL BROKS — on the human mind — Museum & Art Gallery. Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556 7.30pm MAR K LYNAS — on Global Warming — Arts Centre, Devizes Ro ad Tel: 01 793 614837

8.00 pm

Sat urday I 5th May CHERYL FOLLON & MATHEW WELTON — two new poets — Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road Tel: 01793 466556 SWINDON SLAM! & QUICK QUIP QUIZ — Festival finale! —Town Hall, Regent Circus Tel: 01793 463210

J°^°,h°° P ° rr ' tt- i`ah

12.30 pm 8.00 pm

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SwirdGr Wide Practical work starts in earnest on Lydiard Park project

Sarah Finch-Crisp, Keeper of Lydiard House, gives an update on the major programme to investigate and uncover the history of Lydiard and describes the opportunities for people to take part in the process In December 2003 Heritage Lottery Fund awarded Swindon Borough Council £430,000 to undertake vital development work to support the restoration of Lydiard Park. As visitors to the park can see today, work has begun which reveals the elegantly designed landscape of former times. In February Swindon Services started the project works by removing scrub and dead trees from the area around the great castellated dam, including the 18 th Century boat house. A sunken path, once lined with yew trees and running down towards the lake, can now be clearly seen and steps to the boat house are also visible. The ruinous great wall has been fenced off as a safety precaution but visitors to the park can view it from the regular footpath. Time to dig If you would like to join the restorati on and have always wanted to be an archaeologist, now is your chance to have a go with help from a team from Wessex Archaeology. You do not need to have been on a dig before as there will be plenty of help and instruction from team members. If you don't fancy the

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust have joined the Lydiard Park Project to work with the local community to create a map of all the parks habitats, its fauna and flora and protected species. If bat roosts. bugs, badger sets and newts tickle your fancy, why not join the search? To become involved in the survey contact Neil Pullen at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on 526228, mail: neilp@wiltshirewildlife.org.uk

Events in April From 3 April Lydiard Park 60th Anniversary Exhibition in the Visitor Centre celebrating Swindon Corporation's historic purchase of Lydiard Park in 1943.

Workmen from Swindon Services getting to grips with years of overgrowth around the ruined dam at the eastern end of the lakes at Lydiard Park idea of trowels and wheelbarrows, there will be finds to wash and sort which can be done sitting down. Would your club or society enjoy taking part? You can make a booking for a group of your members to come along for a tour and a talk, or to roll up their sleeves and join in. Teachers. Would you like an archaeologistto visit your school and talk to your pupils about the work they are doing at Lydiard? Pupils will also get the chance to handle a

wide range of finds. For details and to register your interest, call Margaret Bunyard at Wessex Archaeology on 01722 343414 or mail: m.bunyard@ wessexarch.co.uk

1 4 April. 10am-4pm Archaeology Open Day. Meet the archaeologists at work and explore the site's hidden landscape. 24 April, 11 am and 2pm Grand Dam Tours. Explore the ruinous dam wall with the project buildings' archaeologist. Places should be booked in advance by calling 770401.

Explore the natural environment of the park Whilst Lydiard Park is of great historical significance, it is also a fascinating ecological environment.

Lottery funds available for more projects The Heritage Lottery Fund south west regional office in Exeter which covers Cornwall, Devon. Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire is keen to hear of more projects that would benefit from grants. Few proposals seeking support are the size of the Lydiard Park regeneration scheme. South West HLF regional manager Nerys Watts says the fund has a much wider remit than big projects. "Heritage is the story of who we are: it covers museums, archives, people's memories, industrial heritage, natural heritage, parks. coastlines, as well as listed buildings and high profile structures, "It's about understanding the past, why it's important and relevant,whywe'vebecomewhatwe are today and how the character of the UK has been formed. But it's also about getting people to appreciate that heritage can often be beautiful. Going for a walk in the countryside or along the coastline you can see many amazing and spectacular sights. Heritage doesn't have to be dry and dusty. It can be fun and interesting. The grant giving schemes are: • Awards for All

which makes

grants of between £500 and £5,000 and has a simple application process. A project example might be helping a local history society catalogue and display a collection of local interest photographs and negatives. • Your Heritage gives grants up to £50,000. such as history projects collecting personal audio and visual history covering whole communities. Young Roots grants up to £25,000 for projects involving young people in community based projects. • Heritage Grants for amounts over £50,000 like Lydiard Park or the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. StaffattheExeterofficeareavailable to discuss ideas which might eventually be funded and the application process. Call 01 392 223950. The information is also available from: www.hlf.org.uk

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It takes place outside Swindon's Town Hall Friday 23 April, 6pm - St George's Day. There will be live music and street entertainment to build up the excitement in anticipation of the eye watering spectacle of up to 100 people walking barefoot over hot coals. Jackie Kent, Trust Manager for GWR FM's Community Trust, says, "this is a fantastic opportunity to bring members of your staff, club or even a group of friends together to do something quite amazing for a local cause. "On the evening of the event, each team member will take part in a two hour fire walk training session which will provide them with physical and mental techniques to overcome their self-limiting beliefs and turn on their powers of selfcontrol. "This event is going to be spectacular, for the teams and companies taking part, and the spectators. We only have room for 20 teams and several have already signed up, including myself and the GWR FM morning crew, Matt & H and Howard Taylor. Have you got what it takes?" Jacquie Sheppard, fundraising manager for Age Concern Swindon, said, "This is a superb way to encourage local companies and groups of friends to raise money for an important local charity. "To show that `age has no barri-

ers', I'll be doing the event as part of the GWR FM's Team." Behind the stunt are firewalking specialists Blaze, who have successfully taken thousands of people through the ultimate mind over matter charity event since 1983. If this red hot challenge has firedup your imagination, organise your team and call the registration hotline on 842600 or log onto www. musicradio.com

Make an out of this world trip for charity Local fundraiser for Marie Cancer Care, Clair Cusack from Pembroke Park, is recruiting people willing to get behind the charity by signing up and raising sponsorship for the Cycle Trip of India in November this year. or a trek to Everest Base Camp Trek in March 2005, or a trek along the Inca Trail in Peru in May 2005. Last year she did the Peru trip afterthree months training and raising £2,500 through mini treks, car boot sales, cake sales, raffles, and company sponsorship, and of course help from family and friends. "I had turned 30 and decided needed a personal challenge with a difference. It was a trip of a lifeti me and the hardest thing I have ever done. But the most important thing is my sponsor money funded over ten whole nights of nursing for a terminally ill cancer patient in their home." Clair would be happy to talk to anyone about all aspects of the experience. Call her on 0117 9247275 or mail: info@mariecurie .org.uk www.mariecurie.org.uk

Clair Cusack at the mountain top city of Machu Picchu

Swindon Wide Cash for CALM and Brandon's appeal

Swindon's Children Cancer and Leukaemia Movement is celebrating its twentieth year supporting families in and around the town and groups and businesses are getting behind the volunteers who run the organisation to boost its income. CALM was one of the beneficiaries from a dinner and dance at the Supermarine Rugby Club on 13 March organised by members of the Hindu community in Swindon. In total £3,400 was raised to be divided amongst three good causes. The group made a major donation of £1,700 to Forgotten in Africa, a charity which runs community development projects in sub-Saharan countries. When approached for suggestions The Linknominated CALM and four year old Brandon Humphries, who suffers from cerebral palsy. Brandon's parents from The Prinnells. West Swindon are raising £4,000 to send him for specialised conductive education at the Peto Institute in

A 12 hour darts marathon, disco. bingo session and chest wax for charity at the end of February raised just under £800 in aid of CALM. Event organiser Rosaleen Healey, assistant manager at the Abbey Mead pub. said she had been moved by the story of Matthew Fairs, 13, from Matty Fairs with his father Terry, centre, with Penhillwho had just marathon dart throwers, from left, Shane Arnold, returned home from Mick Arnold. Adie Warr Great Ormond Street Hospital af- of Matty's cancer treatment, and ter a heart transplant. "Matty's then the heart transplant, I decided mother works at the pub; she was I wanted to do something to help very good to me when I came to CALM which had given the family work in Swindon. After she told me so much support."

Hungary at the end of April. Sushma Patel, one of the organisers, said Hindus in the town wanted to help both international and local causes. "Many of us have roots in East Africa. It has a special place in our hearts and we could not say no when approached about Forgotten in Africa. But we also wanted to support local causes. CALM does valuable work with Swindon families and little Brandon has such an immediate need." Above, CALM chairman Don Macarthur receiving a £700 cheque from Sushma Patel. Sarla Lakhani, Radhika Lakhani. Back Harish Lakhani Below, Brandon Humphries and his dad Tony accept a cheque for £1.000 from Sarla Lakhani. Radhika Lakhani and Sushma Patel

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Swindon Cares prepares for July

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Four charities and a local trust will benefit from a week of fundraising events from 11 to 16 July and Swindon organisations are being asked to come up with ideas to boost the total raised. nated to Age Concern The first Swindon Swindon, Macmillan Cares week in 2003 SWI NL Cancer Relief, NSPCC raised £15,000. With Cares Swindon andtheGWR backing from compa``• Community Trust. vies like Nationwide, ( f Forfundraising inspiZurich and BBC Radio I ', , ration or to register your Swindon, this year's taron to idea, log get has been set at DifferenceTogether www.swindoncares.co.uk £30,000 which will be do-

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Singers of all ages from the Janice Thompson Performance Trust will come together on 1 May for a special concert in aid of Christian Aid. The concert choir will be joined by the Junior Boys and Youth Ensemble, and the Collegium Brass directed by Graeme Lewis. The concert takes place at Immanuel Church, Upham Road at 7pm. Tickets at £5, which include a programme and refreshments, will be available on the door. Call 642966 for more details.

Meet a Lion in April Swindon Lions' Club are holding awine and nibbles information evening for prospective members on Friday 30 April, 7.30pm to 9pm at the Lawn Community Centre, Windsor Road. The club currently has 24 members from all walks of life and backgrounds, united in a common aim to help those less fortunate than themselves. They meet on two Mondays a month to discuss community service, fundraising and social activities. Many voluntary community organisations rely on the funds raised by Lions to purchase specific items as well as helping disabled and disadvantaged individuals in Swindon. In the last year Swindon Lions' Club has raised over £1 0,000 in a variety of ways including quiz and race nights, running a stall at the

Old Town Festival and organising a Father Christmas float in December. Members helped with collections for Marie Curie Cancer Care and Children in Need, as well as putting on a fireworks spectacular, taking families from the Women's Refuge on a visit to the Cotswold Wildlife Park, driving house-bound elderly around the Cotswolds, finishing with a cream tea and helping at a sports meeting for disabled athletes. For information about the evening call Lion Helen Marson on 751429. Call Stephen Austin on 527364 about joining the Lions.

Chase the bunnies this Easter The Easter Bunny Chase returns to Roves Farm Visitor Centre this April. Find the illusive furry favourite and claim a chocolate egg. These antics are just part of the holiday fun in store for visitors to the farm during the Easter holidays. Apart from the egg-citing tractor rides, there will be two Easter themed craft sessions a day and Rupert Burr of Roves Farm

animal racing throughout the holidays (weather permitting). Thisprovides hilarious entertainment for spectators and helps raise money for local charities. There will be plenty of Easter lambs and baby goats to bottlefeed and lots of fluffy yellow chicks to handle, not forgetting the rabbits that never tire of cuddles. There's endless indoor and outdoor fun on offer, the 3D big bale maze, a bouncy castle, ball pond and soft play area, not to mention the world's largest living willow maze. Roves Farm is open Wednesday to Sunday and everyday during school holidays, June and July, 1 0.30am to 5pm. For details call 763939. Go to www.rovesfarm.co.uk for details of how to organise Easter and birthday parties.

The Link Magazine • April 2004

North library volunteers raring to go Swindon Libraries have for many years provided a much appreciated delivery service for readers in various parts of the town and now the Home Library service is about to be introduced in North Swindon. Volunteers have been recruited to visit the homes of readers on a regular basis bringing selected books, videos, spoken word cassettes and CDs and music CDs. But potential users are needed. The service is provided for people who have a long-term disability preventing them from getting to a library; those who would have difficulty in carrying books home ; ., because of disability; or are recovering from a stay in hospital; or a long illness at home. An initial visit is made to the ^... customer to find out exactly what sort of material they enjoy read- North Swindon library manager Gilli ing, watching or listening to be- Brookes-Palmer with home library fore experienced library assistants volunteer Site Oak search the shelves to select items which meet their specific require- services on offer. We are looking ments. Home Library is completely forward to starting - we just need to know who would like our help free to users. Scheme coordinator Debs Osorio and we will do the rest." For details of the service for yoursaid, "the special thing about Home Library that customers really ap- self or somebody you know, call preciate is that volunteers come Debs on 707127 or mail: right into their homes. All they debsosorio@Swindon.gov.uk She would also like to hear from have to do is sit back and let us people who would be willing to look after their library needs, "Now that North Swindon Li- act as volunteer visitors in other brary is nearly one year old, it's a parts of the town or as a relief in good time to broaden the range of North Swindon.

Readers get together

School dresses down for Gemma

The next meeting of West Swindon Library Readers Group takes place on Tuesday 27 April, 7pm to 8pm where members will be discussing the first two books of a new crime series by Margaret Murphy, Darkness Falls and

Youngsters at Greendown School will be donating the proceeds from a non-uniform day on 2 April to former pupil Gemma Lambert, below, from Toothill. Her family has been raising money for IVF treatment to har-

Weaving Shadows.

Anyone who has read the books vest her eggs in is welcome to attend, and copies advanceofabone are still available to borrow before marrow transplant in early the meeting. For details contact Tracey April which will Dowling on 465554 or mail: render her infertdowling@swindon.gov.uk tile.

4 i--•

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36 The Link Magazine • April 2004

West walking group ready to stride out

Are you a charity superstar? Staff at the Link Centre Active Lifestyle Centre are still looking for thirty men and women to test themselves to the limit The Link Superstars Challenge takes place on Saturday 10 April. Participants will corn pete for prizes in seven events: • 50 metre swim • 100 metre sprint • gym tests (squat thrusts and press ups) • skills' tests (football / netball) • 500 metre row • 5 minute bike sprint • 800 metre run. A collection on the day will be donated to the Gemma Lambert Fund, supporting the West Swindon teenager in her fight against cancer. For details and to register, call Neil Montgomery or Caroline Painter on 445566.

The new West Swindon Walking Group, exclusively announced in the March Link sets off to discover West Swindon's forgotten sculptures on Wednesday 7 April and will meet every week until September. No booking is required; turn up at Link Centre main reception ready to start at 1.15pm. The leisurely walks on tarmac paths will be led by qualified instructor Brian Gardiner and will last about two hours. Maps and written directions will provided. Everyone is welcome says Brian, but please wear trainers, walking boots or shoes, comfortable clothing, bring waterproofs and a drink. The walking routes in April: 7April: Sculptures of West Swindon (approx. 5 miles with stop at each sculpture) 14 April: ToothilI Park (approx. 2.5 miles) 21 April: Explore the wildlife at Rivermead, Peatmoor and Shaw (approx. 4.5 miles) 28 April: Old Shaw (approx. 3 miles) All walks finish at Link Centre. The cost: Non-Swindon Card £2.60 Swindon Card £2 Concession 1 £1 Concession 2 30p For further information call the Link Centre on How the mighty are fallen, 1989, by Tim Sandys-Renton on Shaw Ridge. One of the sculptures to be visited on 7 April 445566.

West walking map to be made available generally Many people will not be able to join the afternoon walking group but The Link and Link Centre are working together to make the route maps available at www.swindonlink.com in early April. Digital prints will also be available at modest cost. Details will be provided next month.

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Swindon's famed Twin Peaks marathon walking team will again be displaying characters from the Magic Roundabout on their bras when they do the annual Moonwalk overnight through London on 15 May, in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Bristol Cancer Care Centre. Many of the 15,000 doing the walk, starting and finishing in Hyde Park, will also be wearing the names of loved ones whohave died from the disease. About 200 Swindon women and a few men walk-

4 r;' I L-

. W pN= NENE

training throughout the winter and have been seen at all hours striding out, often ^y wearing flourescent yellow •s Moonwalk caps. Twin Peaks organiser Eunice Salmon said that Swindon walkers have contributed about £250,000 over the last seven years, and the team has become an importantfundraisingfocus for the charity in the town. She added that the Magic Roundabout characters have Right, Marion Thomas modelling her pair great decorative protential of Dougals for this year's moonwalk on bras and identifies the team with one of Swindon's inter- Moonwalker write to The Link, address on page 4, stating how esting features. To offer sponsorship to a much you are willing to offer.

The Link Magazine â€˘ April 2004

Junior players from the West win through Two West Swindon table tennis players and former Greendown School pupils, Ashley Hilton, 17, from Toothi ll , and Jacob Holland, 16, from Shaw, emerged victorious at the recent Swindon Closed Junior Table Tennis Championships.

After a mini scare at the round robin stage of the competition, when he lost a key match, Ashley showed a champion's determina-

Out come the mallets

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tion and progressed to the final of the under 18s singles which he settled in straight games. He then joined Jacob and together they moved confidently into the under 18s doubles final. Showing the greater consistency and pace where it mattered, Ashley and Jacob edged out their sporting oppo-

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Ashley and Jacob receive their championship trophies from Roy Hazell, President of the Srvindon Table Tennis League. Photo:

tend a Tuesday or Wednesday

Bernie Backholer

evening session for a game of golf croquet. Partnered by a coach, you will quickly learn a social fun game that a l l the family can play on equal terms. For players with more competitive instincts the club offers the challenging game of Association Croquet, where skill, tactics and cunning are needed to overcome an opponent. No previous skill or experience is needed. To find out more call John Airey on 873026 to arrange a free session on the croquet lawn at More don Playing Fields, opposite Manor Garden Centre. www.swindoncroquetclub.org.uk

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Two teams recruiting players Swindon United Churches Cricket Club have historic roots in the churches of Swindon but for many years have welcomed players with or without church links. Over the last ten years they have won acclaim for their facilities and programme of matches as well as an award for their attractive ground at Sevenhampton. For details about joining call club secretary David Martin on 770171. Swindon NALGO Cricket Club plays at the Groundwell sports ground in North Swindon and is

well known in local and regional cricket circles for combining successful cricket with an active multirace policy. Members of Swindon's Indian, Sri-Lankan, West Indian and Pakistani communities bring a world wide cricketing influence to the side, but the overall uniting factor is the enjoyment of the game at a competitive level. The team will soon move out of indoor league games and net practice for the new season. For details about joining call Richard on 573972 or Shaz on 0776 0374850

WESTLEA SCHOOL Thursday 5.30pm FRESHBROOK CHURCH Wednesday 7pm ABBEY MEADS PRIMARY SCHOOL Thursday 6.15pm HAYDON CENTRE Monday 9.30am.. Wednesday 6pm & 7.15pm Discover the new Time To Eat programme

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38 The Link Magazine • April 2004

Swindon Town on an upward trend Ever since Chris Scott wrote in the November Link about how Swindon Town FC has become our club' again, with the future looking better than it has for several years, performances have improved massively and promotion to Division 1 beckons. With the last few weeks of the season in sight. including the busy Easter schedule, Chris says it's more important than ever to get behind the team.

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Whether this season's campaign ends with promotion or a place in the playoffs remains to be seen but all the signs are good. Last Autumn I wrote that gates are increasing with every game. If a week is a long time in politics, a season in football can seem like an eternity. A year ago Swindon were a mid-table side and on course for an end of season tenth place with 60 points. This season the club reached 60 points early in March with a 2-0 victory over Tranmere. Since Christmas. Swindon have put together a run of seven home wins in an eleven match unbeaten run. Unfortunately the loss at Plymouth on 13 March upset the pat-

Still wilts to he tilled in the Nat iontvidestand as loon dcfelulcr Matt Haya.'ood protects goalkeeper Rys Evans from a Brentford attack on 6 March

tern.

Astute signings by manager Andy King have come good. The 35 goal strike partnership of Tommy Mooney and Sam Parkin has blossomed and will soon rank with Swindon's great striking partnerships of the past. And the club isn't just about the senior team. Swindon's up and coming stars reached the quarter finals of the FA Youth cup and Everton have offered a reported £150,000 and the highly rated Sean O'Hanlon in exchange for teenage defender Leigh Mills who has played for England at under 16 level and is on course for a great career. Matt Haywood wins a battle against At home games the Town End is Brentford's Ben May . Photos: Richpacked and there's a lot of singing ard Wintle of Calyx, tel: 520131. these days, with plenty to be happy www. cal ypix. corn

about. There is a buzz of expectation and confidence in the Nationwide and Arkells stands but there is still room for more fans to urge the team on. It's definitely worth a visit to the County Ground to see at first hand whether the dream can come true - the ticket office can be reached on 0870 4431554. Every home game is an important points earner. Coming up are Bristol City, second in the league at present, on 10 April. This could be a sell-out so book your ticket now. Oldham are hereon Saturday 24 April and Hartlepool on 8 May. On ?? May QPR, currently third, will be guests. This could be a crucial decider match.

There will be plenty to enjoy at these games so why not give it a try and help 'our team' go up.

Bowlers eagerly await the new season

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Weather permitting, Haydon Wick bowlers will be taking to the green soon after Easter and are anticipating another successful season. The club is always on the look out for new mem- Derek Richardson 724153 or just turn up at the green bers and welcomes any resident of the parish, whether behind the Hayden Centre once the season is or not they have any previous playing experience. underway. The Wiltshire Bowls Association is offerThe club's instructors can provide initial guidance ing a prize to the club signing on the most new and club equipment is available for those who want members for this season and nothing would please Derek more than for Haydon Wick to win - even if to try the sport before committing themselves. Enquiries should be directed to new club secretary playing honours elude them once again.

Losers pleased with success In the last 12 months members of the Slimming World club at Toothill Community Centre have lost a staggering 4,4221bs - 315 stones and 12 pounds. The greatest weight losers are: 9.30am group 1st June Bassett 4 stone 107bs 2nd Steve Holmes 4 stone 2lbs 3rd Ken Goodchild 2 stone 10lbs 6.00pm group 1st Audrey Iveson 4 stone 31bs 2nd Sue Smith 3 stone 10lbs 3rd Jose Rogers 3 stone 6lbs

Badminton players wanted

The Thornford Drive Badminton Club offers the chance to play at a social level at the Link Centre on Sundays, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. There is no sub, but it is pay on the night to cover the cost of the courts and shuttles. This varies depending on the number of people playing, but is generally between £2.50 and £4. To join turn up at the Link CenSharon Paiiiler, centre, with Sue tre or call Yvonne Gilliam 07967 341104 for details. Smith and Josephine Rogers

The Link Magazine • April 2004

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40 The Link Magazine • April 2004

Park life for Tooth ii! teens

Litter pick around the lagoon

Teenagers hanging around the bright lights of Toothill village centre have long been an issue in the area, but now there is a new shelter in nearby Shelfinch Park as an alternative venue. Funding for the metal open sided structure with

The Friends of Peatmoor Lagoon are organising their annual litterclearing morning on Easter Monday, 12 April, 10am to 12noon. Volunteers are invited to come down to try and reduce the amount of garbage that afflicts one of West Swindon's most pleasant spots. There will be mini-Easter eggs for everyone who fills a bag with rub-

seating has been provided by the

!^ a

Toothill NeST A it ' ( Neighbourhood ) Environmental Safety Team). Local councillor Mary Martin said "►it would help ease tensions around .+ ( the shops. "Toot hill centre has problems as there is nowhere for the teenagers to meet Gininie shelter, coun Mary Martin with PC Paul up so they often Phelps and Callum Sherry gather round the carpark. The shelter provides a about whilst not creating place to meet which is not immedi- unneccessary nuisance." ately overlooked by housing, but Callum Sherry, 13, from Toothill, close to the kickabout area. said, "it's alright; it's a place to go, "Later this year the play area right next to the football pitch." • MeetthePC.PaulPhelpsisavailgets an overdue refurbishment." New Toothill policeman Paul able to meet residents on the first Phelps is pleased that teenagers Saturday of the month, 10am to have somewhere to go. "Anti-so- 12noon at Toothill Community cial behaviour at the village centre Centre. by some young people has created • Toothill village centre is to have a perception that it is not safe. The £24,000 spent on repairing walls shelter provides a place to hang and tidying up planted areas.

bish.

Meet at the Fisherman's car park on Peatmoor Way to collect bags and litter-pickers. Please bring gloves. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For details call Suzanne Bullimore on 870458.

Easter activities at Peatmoor community facilities Lollipops holiday theatre workshops for children aged 5 to 10 years Monday 5 April and Thursday 15 April, 10am to 12 noon. Sing, dance, act and have fun. £6 for each session. Dance stars with Vicki Constantino

Tuesday 13 April and Wednesday 14 April. Learn dance routines to pop music. Cost £2.50 per session 10am to )lam, for 6 to 8 year olds 11am to 12noon, for 9 to 11 year olds To book a place contact the Community Office at Peatmoor Primary School, tel: 881613. Leave your name and contact number if the office is unattended. New toddler group at Peatmoor A new morning session starts on Thursday 22 April, 9.30am -11.30am. This first session will be free. The group will meet on three out of four Thursdays in the month. Call 881613 to confirm dates.

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The Link Magazine • April 2004

Crossing needed in Freshbrook to prevent a tragedy

Anger at Haydon traffic hold ups

Haydon Wick Parish councillors are annoyed by the failure of Swindon Council to take action to sort out the traffic congestion at the junction of Thames Avenue and Westfield Way. At some times during the day, traffic can back up for more than 300 yards along Thames Avenue,. There is near grid lock around the Safeway and Hayden Centre car park access points and the No 11 bus service between the North Swindon District Centre and the Great Western Hospital is often delayed. The issue was raised yet again at the parish council meeting in February. Chairman Richard Hailstone said, "in view of the number of minor accidents and the peak time traffic congestion, the parish council feels that it is time Swindon Council took action. "The parish council has been tryAlan Bowler, showing off his daming for ten years to get a mini aged leg, with his friend Margaret roundabout installed." Bowls who witnessed the accident on It is understood that Swindon Worsley Road Council is concerned that easing month to heal. traffic flow would attract drivers Windmill Court manager Barbara through Greenmeadow. However, Bartle said crossing Worsley Road drivers are avoiding the backed to get to and from the village centre up traffic by diverting and 'rat runwas always a worry for residents. ning' on Blunsdon Road and High "We have many older people liv- Street, twisting roads not suitable ing here, some of whom are frail for heavy usage. but can still get out. There should be pedestrian controlled lights there because drivers don't always take account of the time older folk need to cross the road."

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Residents of the Windmill Court sheltered housing scheme in Freshbrook are calling - again - for a controlled pedestrian crossing across Worsley Road so that people can walk to and from Freshbrook Village Centre in safety. A petition was submitted to Swindon Council in 1998 and another in 2000 but the road was considered not dangerous enough to warrant more money being spent on it after curb build-outs were installed in the mid-1990s. However the issue has reemerged after 73 year old Alan Bowler fell out of his scooter trying to avoid a speeding car on 23 February.

He explained that he had been returning from the village centre and was about to cross the road. The driver of a white Peugeot 306 coming from the nearby roundabout slowed and flashed his lights to indicate that he could cross. "I started to cross but I realised that the car was speeding at me," said Alan. "If I had not touched the accelerator button he would have driven right over me." Unfortunately with the extra speed the solid front wheel of the scooter hit the lip of the drop curb and he was tipped out, trapping his leg under it. Alan said the driver stopped and helped him up and asked if he was alright, but did not explain his actions before speeding off. Alan was left with nasty bruising and a gash to the leg which has taken over a

Lunch club gets help with the chores Washing up is a thing of the past at the Thursday lunch club at the Emmanuel United Reformed Church, High Street, Haydon Wick thanks to fundraising by club members and sponsorship which saw delivery of a £3,000 dish washer in February. Biffaward, Age Concern, Zurich, Highworth Churches and the Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation contributed to the equipment made necessary by the environmental health officer who considered washing and drying dishes by hand unhygienic. Club coordina- Healthier conditions for lunch club members and voluntor Fiona Jarmey teers, from left, Mary Parsons, Ann Collar, Maureen thanked all the Sillett, Jean North, Fiona Jarmey, Evelyn Scott people and the organisations who had helped raise the money for the machine which has lightened the workload of the volunteers who work with her. The club has a waiting list. For details about joining call Fiona on 701464.

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42 The Link Magazine • April 200 4 %lea 4oeae R'e ceae eo^xAaur Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

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Rev up for a great day out Looking for the ultimate family day out? Then The Sunday Times Motor Show Live, taking place between 27 May and 6 June 2004 at the NEC in Birmingham, is the place to be. And we have two pairs of tickets to give away.

•

With a new date and a new format that includes several new and exhilarating interactive features, the event is much more than a traditional motor show. You can watch cars perform to the absolute limit in the Live Action

Driving School area, the first time at any motor show that visitors will be able to drive a car, even if they are too young to pass their test. For adults, the 72-acre 4x4 Experience pits man and machine against the most challenging ter-

Arena with displays by the world's best stunt drivers.

rain found at any motor show in the world. This promises to be an

Family members as young as 14 will have the opportunity to drive a

adrenalin pumping experience for all 4x4 enthusiasts.

carforthe first time with BSM in the

The show will also feature the chance for potential buyers to experience a selection of new models, either as a driver or passenger, thanks to the new `taster' test drive fea-

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ture.

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North link road not officially open yet Oakhurst Way which links Thamesdown Drive with Tadpole Lane through Priory Vale remains officially closed to traffic although local residents and construction traffic have been using it for some time.

•

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The route, when open, will provide access from junction 8 of Thamesdown Drive near Taw Hill to Blunsdon, Purton and Cricklade. For some drivers, it would form an alternative route to the A419 at Blunsdon Hill. Jeff Davis of consultant engineers Trench Farrow confirmed that before the road could be officially open legal agreements with Swindon Council needed to be signed and some finishing works completed. He acknowledged that motorists were already using the route but could not say when the legal issues would be resolved. Oakhurst Way will form the principal access onto Tadpole Lane

at Tadpole roundabout. However Blunsdon Parish Council are upset at the number of access points being created from Priory Vale which is altering the rural character of the road. Chairman of the parish council, Colin Shiner, said, "we are very disappointed that the developers are making in-roads into the new area from Tadpole Lane when we had understood that it was intended that residential areas would be mainly serviced from Thamesdown Drive." Trench Farrow, however, point out that the original framework plan provided for four junctions along the lane.

The Link Magazine • April 2004

It's a minifold mystery Tim Whitty who runs the family business Cyclecare-Purton is looking for help to solve a two wheeled conundrum. About a year ago a villager brought an unusual bike into the shop, a folding bike with label Minifold. Tim was told that it had been made by a Mr Pidgeon who had perhaps lived in Swindon but died sometime ago. As a cycling fanatic Tim said he is keen to find out more. "The wheels, brakes and mudguards on the Minifold are from a 1960s Raleigh child's bike, but other parts are well engineered, cast in steel and aluminium, quite sophisti- Tim with the unfolded Minifold myscated for the time. tery bike. Below, Tim holding thefolded "Perhaps Mr Pidgeon worked bike in his shop, next to the Brompton in the railway works and used his folding bike on the right expertise to develop the Minifold? Unfortunately it's painfully uncomfortable to ride and will have needed a lot more development." If you know anything about the Minifold or Mr Pidgeon, call Tim on 771823 or mail: whitsend@amserve.com However, if you are after an ordinary bike, Cyclecare-Purton is worth a visit for quality products and services. Tim stocks bikes by Giant and is probably the only cycle shop in the area which sells the acclaimed Brompton folding bike, as well as Puky bikes for kids from Germany.

GREAT WESTERN ENTERPRISE your partner in business i

CENTRAL

SWINDON

Annual long stay parking from only £58.08 per month

r • Ir

WHO GIVES YOU SPEEDY MOT TESTING 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH NO APPOINTMENT ...... AND MORE?

3 On the spot minor repairs & adjustments free 3 Free retest within 14 days 3 Convenient location - close to the Oasis Leisure Centre 3 Comfortable waiting room with coffee and TV 3 Helpful service with 30 years experience 3 Modern through to classic cars/vans welcome 3 Large vans & motor homes up to 3500kg (class 7) 3 Two testing lanes for speedy turnaround 3 Fully equipped modern repair workshop 3 12 months MOT reminder system

Hawksworth Industial Estate, Swindon (close to the Oasis Leisure Centre)

Discounts for group and

company bookings Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793-690600

T ^

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44 The Link Magazine • April 2004

Carpet cleaning offered at 1994 prices

Top trainee at the cutting edge

West Swindon based carpet cleaning business Ultra Clean (Wilt- A young hairdresser from the Cre8 shire) is ten years old and proprietor Alan Trask is offering to clean Hair and Beauty Studio in your carpets at the same price he charged when he placed his very first Greenmeadow has shown what it advertisement in The Link. takes to reach the top of her trade Alan said he would like to thank said Alan Trask. "We have always by winning the Wiltshire Trainee all his valued customers for their offered a friendly professional of the Year award. Hayley MacKenzie was nomibusiness over the last ten years service to all our clients, from the and as a great fan of The Link, he time they make that valued call, to nated by Theresa Chandiram at wanted to introduce new custom- completing the job. We've also kept Cre8. She said, "Hayley is a perfecers to his service by making an up to date with the changing tech- tionist and good enough is not part offer they cannot refuse. nology so that customers get the of her approach. She's an impor"Link readers have supported best possible service." tant member of our team." Ultra Clean since we started up in The Ultra Clean tenth anniver- Hayley receiving the award from John 1994 and we have continued to sary offer takes place during the Foster from Channel 4's The Salon grow as the magazine has reached week beginning 4 April. Call 870756 out into new areas, beyond West to secure the best deal in town. LETTER TO THE LINK Swindon into North Swindon," See the advert on page 12. Keep feeding the birds. From Jean Saunders, Longcot. Oxfordshire

House Medic Building, Maintenance & Repairs

• Electric showers • Power showers • Replacementtaps

• GARAGE CONVERSIONS

• Exchange suites

• EXTENSIONS

•

• En-suites Tiling • Towel rails

• INTERNAL ALTERATIONS

• Shower Trays And Cubicles

• REFURBISHMENTS

• Complete bathroom Makeovers

• MAINTENANCE WORK

• Insurance Work Undertaken

• INSURANCE WORK

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150 644, 3 THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FORA HEALTHIER HOME

\w ,,,,,,AA

I' m sure that June Skeels has got her facts mixed up when she wrote last month that you shouldn't feed peanuts to blue tits after March because it makes their egg shells vulnerable to crushing. Certain agro-chemicals, now banned, were responsible for the decline in many bird species as a result of the damaging effect of the pesticide on the egg shell. Some cheap peanuts can be contaminated with aflatoxins. These harm birds and you should look for nuts guaranteed aflatoxin free. You need to be careful about putting out whole peanuts when the blue tits are feeding their young

- they can choke on whole ones. However the tit is a clever little bird and I have noticed that they tend to select insects to feed their young rather than nuts. Contrary to June's experience, our garden is thronging with bird life including blue tits. The loss of garden birds is far more likely to be the result of destroying their natural habitats and nesting places. Tidy gardens sprayed with chemicals do nothing to improve matters. And of course cats and birds don't go together. That friendly furry moggy will murder a bird if given half a chance, so site feeding areas well out of reach.

LIGHTING BUG FACTORY WAREHOUSE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Units 16/17 Westmead Industrial Estate. Swindon Tel: (01793) 616018

www.lightingbug.co.uk

FREE CAR PARKING QWELCOME

• Probably the widest selection of lighting in Wiltshire • Affordable prices • Ceiling fans • Special discounted prices • Made to measure shades in your own fabric • Over 700 fittings to choose from • Special requirements/ alterations catered for • Our service to you is paramount

a''

Bu Lighting We

are he Polic Statio

1 00 YEARS OF DECORATION

BREWERS

ndustria e

If you cannot find what you are looking for we will try our best to find it for you!

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

The Link Magazine • April 2004

Blue takes centre stage again Never mind the sleek specimens paraded at Crufts in March. One of Swindon's most highly regarded four legged friends did stirling duty recently at the Discover Dogs exhibition held at Earls Court. Blue, the eight year s+74rydev in fl uence of their faold Bouvier des f, vourite Bouvier to i rle` Flandres from \ make up this year's Haydon Wick, was `' 3 team. "Even with orasked by the Kennel t^' r ganising my parents Club of Great Britain Golden Wedding anto come out of retire- , + niversary, my daughment for the third ter's wedding and time to join the Good Citizens Gold son's 21st, how could we possibly Level Demonstration Team. say'no'. Owner Janet Garrett explained "The team put on eight demonthat the Kennel Club mentioned stations and Blue lapped up the how much they needed the big, cheering and applause of the audiplacid, laid back, crowd pulling ence."

GoitAg away on

SCRUPLES

kolicIca' of b ssivness?

PET

Creature Comforts offers a professional, caring and reliable home pet feeding service when you are away.

A caring service at competitive rates.

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home? I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals. Whether you're away on holiday or just out at work all day, I can feed, walk and care for your pets. Service tailored to suit your needs. For more details vt phone Carole on

mind service for cats and small animals within your own home. Contact Susan Tel: 01 793 701 31 6 Mobile: 07952 744177 E-mail: susan_creaturecomforts@yahoo.co.uk

^" enr(

• Home / pet sitting - live in or out • Home visits - including feeding/ walkies • Dog walking Travel to airports / ferry ports • Transport/collection from any European destination For details, please call Estelle on 07810 814953 or Tracey on 01367 253844 or 07799 488652 e-mail: tracey@hoefnagels.fsnet.co.uk

Abbeymeads Village Centre Elstree Way Abbeymeads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

David Warnes BVSc MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm 9.00am - 4.00pm

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm Consultina hours b y aoDointment Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am; 3.30pm - 5pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: (01793) 522483

Local care for local people and their pets

040

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet

Saturday

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

ROVE

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

,vet SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE C

PETS AT HOME

sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk

01793 702098

SITTING r°

You can be sure of a total peace of

Its Pets Paradise at Paradise Pets! New reptile section opening soon

Special offer on dog crates. From £24.99 MaRl

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

11^11II ^^^i

Frozen and live foods

available now

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours) For offers,

Thameswood information, log on

prices,advices '

Small Animal Hospital

Super select cage

Holiday boarding for rabbits & guinea pigs (the only fully licensed and inspected small pet

boarding in the area)

to our wee site

24 hour Emergency Service Swindon's most modern small animal hospital, offering high quality surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring, f,'iencll y and professional environment.

i L.

62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon ,:&

Tel: 01793 526780 Open all day: Monday - Friday.

Saturday 9am - 11am Consultations by appointment. Ample free parking

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon Tel: 01 793 51 2400 Fax: 01 793 51 2444

46 The Link Magazine • April 2004

LAW►NHOPPERS grasscutting oa^^^^&r s."^^

A grasscutting service for both large and small gardens

Open up for Breakthrough The Easter break gives gardeners a great chance to prepare for the summer months. But don't just keep your inspiration to yourself. Share it and show it off on the third West Swindon Open Gardens Weekend on 19 and 20 June in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Last year the event raised £2,000 rcl ^k + ^ and organiser

Lesley Dredge brec^ ,L Weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits

i ce-

All machinery supplied to keep

your garden neat and tidy All rubbish removed

Full garden maintenance service available

Tel : 704204

CL Timber

FNMA Grounds

New - Reclaimed

JJJIi

For all your timber decking & pressure treated timber for garden use, ply, close-board fencing new & old sleepers

Delivery in Swindon area

Drop by or tel: 829715 The Yard, Tate Estate Kingsdown Road Stratton St Margaret, Swindon Open: Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm. Sat 9am - 4pm

www.limberdeckingco.co.uk

Maintenance DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL WORKS UNDERTAKEN

• Grass cutting - large or small areas mown weekly, fortnightly or monthly • Weedcontrol - lawns, gravel driveways, block paving etc. • Hedge trimming - annual trimming or reductions For a free quotation call Mike on 01793 722264 or 07919 5561 19 IOSH Managing Safely Certified Public Liability insured

te,

Cuppas and cream teas with Lesley have become an essential part of the weekend

ancer

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•

Forest studies at Hreod

Outdoor schooling, from left, Philip Bailey, Forest school leader Carol Steward, Joseph Horgan, Zac Hasell, Sam Read, Rebecca Starsmeare, teacher Tom Kendall, Daniel Lestrange, leader Chris Meakin, Chris Smith, Daniel Waldron

TF}E TIMBER

LTD

Your complete TIMBER DECKING Specialist

O Timber Decking O Easy Assemble Customised Decking Kits

Garden Design and Maintenance

O Tanalised Timber O Pergolas, Arbours & Gazebos O Decorative Aggregates

O Ornamental Fencing M Hottubs & garden spas g arrivin soon

6 Brindlley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon SN2 2YW

01793 488899 Open: Monday - Friday 9am -

6pm; Saturday 9am - 5pm

A group of Year 7 pupils at Hreod Parkway are working hard every week to tidy up an area of woodland next to their school, whilst studying the changing habitat when different mini-environments are created. With expert help from members of the Great Western Community Forest, the twelve pupils have been spending an hour's 'enrichment time' through the winter coppicing trees, making dead hedges, creating areas more suitable for birds, bees, bugs and small mammals and carrying out wildlife surveys. An environment development plan for the next few years has been drawn up so that the youngsters will be able to observe and study the changing landscape throughout their time at the school.

DECKING COMPANY t>

"' ` rat

wants to improve on the total by recruiting moregardens to join the scheme. Call her on 772869 to register your interest.

Why not get some help from a plant specialist and RHS Chelsea medal winning designer Professional designs drawn to suit your needs/budget • • I maginative planting plans for whole/part of your garden • Plant supply and planting • Garden maintenance - lawn care, shrub pruning, hedge cu tt ing, border renovation Call John or Anita Barratt ND Hort A / Hort on Swindon (01793) 751403 for further information

Anita Barratt Garden Design

The Link Magazine • April 2004

STEVE JEANS

GARDEN A

LAWN & HEDGE CU"l7ING

DOCTOR LANDSCAPIN LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

GENERAL GARDEN TIDY FENCE ERECTION. STAINING & MAINTENANCE

Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

III

Professional Care For Your Garden Grass Cutting Regular Maintenance Landscaping, Patios & Brick Block Paving Hedge Cutting & Pruning No Job Too Small. Free Quotations

Call Martin I'nicr y MI Hort. on 01793 870956 or Mobile 07771 956294

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CAP II I G

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard. panels etc. • Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergola^

ontact: 01793 692687 07711 253508 if

& Garden Maintenance * Lawn cutting * General gardening

;., s

s7 Gravelling '* One-off or regular customers welcome

Give your garden a makeover

LANDSERVE

Lawn

* Hedge cutting * Fencing :r Turfing '

PATIO & TURF LAYING

Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556 -mail: davidsmith@garden-groomers.com www.garden-groomers.com

• Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139

For regular reliable and friendly service call Steve Tel: 01793 536713 Mobile: 0794 1022 461

EDEN LANDSCAPES

0 Paving, Walling 0 Fencing, Patios 0 Gravel drives "No job too small'! For reliable service and quality work

Tel: 01367 710772

LANDSCAPE SERVICES www.horticare.co.uk

** Patios * Ponds * Turfing * Fencing * Garden maintenance * Garden design * Decking * Pergolas ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Mob: 0775 4245160

I4Ij IUJ

Suppliers of tuirf, compost and bark mulch SEED GROWN LAWN TURF - COMMERCIAL QUALITY OR SUPERIOR QUALITY * SCREENED TOPSOIL * SOIL CONDITIONER COMPETITIVE PRICES OPEN 7 DAYS

^—^ -

* BARK MULCH

DELIVERED OR CASH & CARRY

BUILDING MATERIALS Block paving • Driveways • Paths • Patios Decking • Rockeries • Fencing • Pergolas • Turf

Tel: 01793 526320

Side of Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Est, Swindon. Tel: 484455

Transfer Bridge Industrial Estate Cou n ty Road, Swindon

Western Property Maintenance • Painting & Decorating

SOLUTION

Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FREE SURVEY NO DEPOSIT

Your local Architectural Services for Local Authority approvals

£ 60 £135 £205 £130

(prices correct at time of publication)

T For a free quote

• Laminate & Tiled Floors

Also

• Plumbing and Electrical

• Floor & wall tiling

• Fitted Furniture

• Plastering • Plumbing • Internal & external building work undertaken

Installation & Repair For a free quote call Mike Nuttall

J.F.K BUILDING SERVICES

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories.

Extensions, Alterations, Renovations All aspects of garden construction including fencing

•

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (011793) 727824

Tel: 01793 701469 or 07799 085252

22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett,

Fitted kitchens Home improvements Extensions Garages Tel: 01793 872343 Tool Hire Summer Deals Wallpaper stripper

178 Rodbourne Road YOUR LOCAL PVC -U MANUFACTURER

Building Services

Call for a free quotation

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596

/t?(t • Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

• References available

{ han5ej

All general building work

e-mail: rapers@tinyworld.co.uk

Bathroom & kitchen installations

Tel: 01793 886032 Mob: 07729 722829

Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted 20' fascia & gutter fitted 20' fascia, soffit & gutter 20'fascia & soffit

N.G. Dyer Property Maintenance

(Near Designer Outlet Village)

Tel: 01793 522306

Day £10

Wend £14

Carpet cleaner c/w free 1 It carpet shampoo £20

£25

Pressure washer (ideal for patios)

£20

£25

Concrete breakers

£20

£25

Plate compactors

£20

£25

Many more deals - phone for details

Wkn sefs ;he flire standard? All prices include VAT

Why not let us handle everything from start to finish?

CHARISMA _ BLINDS

A rainbow of colours for

your home this Spring! Catch the rainbow at Charisma Blinds The factory - the place for quality and value

Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends)

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

The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 OAS

BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est.. Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

GK AMI DECORATORS SH PS

Tel:01793 701394 Mobile: 07830 184483

2, 2 , 3, 4,5 yards capacity

5 days given to fill skip

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

Interior & exterior

painting and decorating Coving â€¢ Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

DECORATORS High quality painting Et decorating

Interior Et exterior For free quotations call 01793 634523 or 07734 779736

HARDRO

SURFACING

For a Quality Installation E

Driveways paths, drop kerbs and edgings, etc.

Complete tarmac services

For free & friendly advice on our 16SA full range of Gutter/Fascia systems professionally installed and guaranteed. CALL US ON

Tel: 01793 772268

Swindon 855700 / 855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon. Swindon

CetefikatiK y 16 yeas p6tKtik 4wt^

becoaatikg ioies iK l4et SWikbok Offering a high standard of work with references available. Telephone for a fr ee estimate: 07774 - 208527 days

COMPLETE PROPERTY SERVICES (Formerly Merlin Prope rt y Se rv ices)

+ Bathrooms + Kitchens + Renovations + Alterations Industrial maintenance Plumbing + Electrical LPVC Doors & Windows Carpentry + Floor & wall tiling + Painting & decorating

Mobile: 07785 522377

Tel: 01793 616170

or 870515 eves. THE

Wide selection of quality rugs Rug edging service Remnants (vinyls, Flotex, carpet & bathroom) Laminate flooring Home selection service including estimating & fitting

CONSERVATORIES

WINDOWS & DOORS

NSTALLATIONS

UPVC FASCIA & GUTTERING

Unit 59 USS House Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2PT

Tel: 01793 542333 Mobile: 07778 976752

Loft conversion specialists Convert a dark

Make your dream a reality

unused space ...

into an open light modern living area 1)E i9 flS L-

FENSA REGISTEREDCOMPANY

Call Free phone 0800 9178695

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Free 3D dimension drawing References available on request Free survey and quotations

www.acenti.co.uk

Tel/Fax 01 793 331 551

Acenti Designs Ltd.. Hillsborough, Bishopstone SN6 8PW

Mobile 07775 621764 Mobile 07799 284998

BATHROOMS

ire

bathrooms

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

FREE QUOTATIONS

01793 431211 or 07771 998924 email: shirebathrooms@aol.com

CONSERVATORIES NATHAN PERKINS LTD Windows Doors Porches Conservatories

BATHROOMS

BUILDING SERVICES

® Plumbing

G.P. Building Specialist Ltd Extensions and loft conversion specialists

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

All building and maintenance work undertaken

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

Est 15 veers For a free quotation call 07767 417079 01793 435876

Free estimates

01793 875559 07748 964433

DECORATOR

JAMES

Painting and decorating

• Interior/exterior painting & decorating •

Wallpaper hanging • Tiling

•

I 0 years

Domestic & Commercial

independent

trading

Full range of finishes Insurance backed guaranteed

Tel: 01793 887690 Mobile: 07798 682271

ELECTRICAL/PLU MBING

SHAW Electrical Sc Plumbing Ltd

FREE ESTIMATES Quality & Service

Tel: 01793 882093 Mobile: 07957 934536

lighting 5t rewiring t security lighting O garden electrics power & electric showers heating :A bathrooms

Tel: (01793) 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 National Inspection Council II: .00 Eo^o„^.ROA for Electrical Installation Contracting

Replacement skirtingboards, coving, picture rails • Laminate flooring fitted • And other carpentry & building services No job too srnall • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Contact Andy or Mitch: 01793 729354 / 07977 562288 01793 537324/07900 835116

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER

Established 22 years For a professional finish

telephone 07971 347345 (mob) or 616933

'INEMA ROOM • GAMES ROOM GYMNASIUM • OFFICE PLAYROOM • KITCHEN/DINER TEL: 01793 770088 MOB: 07710 150644

©GM Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

DUN' M U t/>E U U f .. ! M U !/€ //Y... !

Quality Plumbing & Heating

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK Tel/Fax: 01793 723495

MH KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg m anse

Mobile: 07771 617992 Building All garden work Concreting paths Guttering and Patio repairs Fascia All carpentry Patio jet wash External painting Repair or replace small walls Internal painting & Grass cutting decorating Hedges & trees cut Plumbing repairs Electrical Toilets, wash basins, bath taps. Replace sockets overflows repaired Extra sockets or replaced Outside lights ALL WORK GUARANTEED, FULLY INSURED

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing

GARAGE CONVERSIONS LTD

KITCHE N S

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

UTIWEST

P.J.J.

HOUSE /GARD E N

HEATING & PLUMBING

O'SULLIVAN

FLOORING

Domestic, commercial & industrial installations. Maintenance & repairs

-®1

• Kitchen installation • Bathroom installation • Ceramic floor & wall tiling • Plumbing Tel: 01793 723407 Mob: 07990 847623 Free estimates

MAINTENANCE

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Handymen Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170 (calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

` ^

Y^•,•7

u,f^

B UILDING SERVICES

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul JZhind

RK SERVICES

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

House maintenance Building repairs Plumbing

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering

Plastering

Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Floor & wall tiling Artexing • Carpentry

DOUBLE GLAZING

I NSTALLATIONS

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

Days: 07711 129663 Eves: 01793 871476

HEATING & PLUMBING

ROB HALL

bathroom and power showers All aspects of plumbing Tel: 01793 815254 Reg 187606

PLASTERING

Brian Jones

Household repairs

O Laminate floors 0 Household repairs and

Kitchens

general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

Ladsworth ELECTRICAL

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Don't be left out in the COLD! All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed • Landlord/moving house safety inspections • Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken ^{ • Central heating systems flushed (powerflush) iillil • Hot water systems descaled • Quote on request • 24 hour call out • Natural gas & LPG qualified •

• British Gas trained

Experienced & reliable

Tel: 01793 821377

Mob: 07930 284293

'lastering Services Re-skimming * Dry lining Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

All aspects of plastering covered Tel: 01793 882329 M: 07766 525959

SOCKETS AND LI6wn TO SHOWERS AND RE- WIRES. FOR FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE,

TEL 01793 49536 MOBILE 0774:38 74621

M.P.S. Heating & Plumbing

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

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

CALL 01793 522579 MOBILE: 07816 906437 ma tt @mpsheating.co.uk www.mpsheating.co.uk Reg 67416

PLASTERING

L.P.A PLASTERING

• Fully insured • Quality workmanship n Competitive rates

M.D. ELECTRICAL SERVICES

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

* External rendering * Plastering two coat

Tel: (01793) 484490 Mobile: 07919 915386

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

Reg: 202015

±++lst Call

All work. guaranteed 14 Morrison Street Rodbourne, Swindon

ELECTRICIAN

Quality Domestic Electrical Installations Extractor fans Outside lighting Pond pumps Power to sheds & garages Extra lights & sockets Electric showers

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

PLASTERIN G

D.R. BALL CARPENTRY

°f "_; Laminate floors Doors/skirting -

Dave Od)

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

boiler servicing and repairs,

0 Fitted bedrooms and kitchens O Replacement doors & staircases

ELECTRICIAN

FENSA See our advert on page 49

Central heating installations,

(app e& lry S-ervk(e4 ^{

ELECTRICIAN

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

JJ 1

CARPENTRY

Free no obligation quotes

Call

Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

CARPENTRY

From a patch to a whole house Free estimates Mobile: 07909 983462 Tel: 01793 703936

20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers

• Competitive • rates All work guaranteed

• No job too small For further details

call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Reg:203455

PLUMBING General plumbing services • Radiators • Pumps • Tanks • Boilers • Cylinders • Burst pipe • Taps • Washing machine installed A local service by

o 0

Tel: 01793 435392

SERVICE

ACCOUNTANCY

ACC OUNTAN CY

Day & Co.

Account fig Services

Chartered Management Accountants

for all your accounting needs

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000 e-mail: info@dayand.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Our friendly and experienced staff are ready to help you with: VAT Returns • Tax Returns Payrolls • Construction Industry Partnerships • Sole-traders We offer a tailored service to suit all your needs Call us now for a free no obligation quote Tel: 01793 632249 Mobile: 07810 543325 helen@hsaaccountingservices.fsnet.co.uk

ARCHITECTURAL

AE RIA L SER VIC ES

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE

Services • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Signal amplifiers

No call out

Complete design, plans, and planning service for New build

• Most leading brands • Guaranteed repairs

Extensions

• Same day service No call out charge • No VAT

A SUDS

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Conversions Refurbishments For prompt service, tel: 321943

DRAINS

IT 2-U.COm PC Support straight to your door • Computer running slow? • Need some advice? • Looking to upgrade? • Equipment required?

MG Dcr^Bm LiaqpUm

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST • CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining

• Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out

• Virus and Internet attack questions? • Wishing to backup? 01793 887883 / 07949 288996 contact@it-2-u.com

Pro-R

www.it-2-u.com

REMOVA LS/S TORAGE

ABBEY MOVE E

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

• No call out charge

Tel: 01793 435392

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS r Satellite TV * Sky & digital terrestial * Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

charge

All work guaranteed ^> Tel: 01793 702601 Mobile: 07774 943 783

BOOK -KE EPING

-* Storm damage SKY

Tel: 01793 700078

Mobile: 0177 6236415

CARPET CLEANING

Savage

CARPETECH

Complete

Professional Carpet & Upholste ry Cleaning

ARCHITECTURAL

AERIALS

• TV & FM aerials

Book-keepin

• Management accounts • VAT return Sage - payroll • Sage-accounting • Self assessment • Self employed • Small business For a professional & friendly service

call 01793 616170

• Domestic & commercial Suites, curtains, rugs • Stain protection Odour treatments • Insecticide treatments C ARPETECH Professional products & reliable friendly service Trained to industry standards - certificates available

for a free no obligation consultation

For a free quotation call 01793 771441 or 07966 100437

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

GARDEN SERVICES Grass cutting Hedge trimming

Sa44ete t ea ec € Sew ce4 SPARES • REPAIRS • SERVICE' YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse or cleaner bag to fridges or vacuum cleaners we offer an efficient & personal service. DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE 11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett

• Regular, occasional or one-off Long grass no problem • Clean, tidy work • Sensible prices • Odd jobs, fencing repairs, etc. Friendly, 7 day service

Chris Reed Swindon 538839

Tel: 01793 854378

Mobile: 07702 2858 65

REMOVALS & STORAGE

RUBBISH REMOVALS

SECURITY SYSTEMS

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COMM ERCIAUDOMESTI RUBBISH DISPOSAL

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REMOVALS 8 ;.

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Tel: 01793 772888

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

Tel (01793) 727307 Mob 07811 188564

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444

WWW.ABBEYMOVE.CO.UK

EMail: ashobbs@theashgroup.freeserve.co.uk

HOUSE CLEARANCE

Crown QSecurity

METALS & CARS DISPOSED OF

Access controls

DEMOLITION

You name it, we move it Quick & clean service Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm

Tel: 01793 772268

Burglar alarms CCTV • Fire alarms

Installed, repaired, maintained 24 hour monitoring for police response

For details call Doug Marshall on 433999

SECTOR

AERIAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRAVEL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

AIRPORTS direct

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Same day, local service wherever possible

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

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc. Member of Tumble Driers

Reliable travel for holiday makers

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

Competitive prices

Tel: 725 000 CARPET CLEANING

jfff Whiteway The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable

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

INTERNET

CARPET CLEANING

COMP UTER SERVICES

SAFECLEAN IT

www.puretechsolutions.co.uk • Computer

• carpets

• curtains

• upholstery

• rungs

• leather

Recommended by Leading Retailers throughout the UK Established in the UK since 1971 Guardsman Anti Stain Protection' Spot Stain & Odour Removal

for a thnrnur r lil1' Sa ect c'al'l good clean call.. Adam Elmore Freephene 0808 1 44 5.125

•i

SUP

.1 SIGMA

repairs

Computer Solutions

• Supplies • Training

NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions

for home, education small business • Free callout service • Desktop PC's: new & used • Friendly professional service

For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363

Tel: 0845 128 4362 or mail: info@puretechsolutions.co.uk

OVEN CLEANING

sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

REFRIGERATION

Nine Elms Solufions ltd We will build you a single page website, provide a '.co.uk' domain name, give you an e-mail address & host your site for 12 months for as little as £125!

0 i :'. ^NCL A.N LH IRONING SERVICES

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

(est. 1998)

116. REGISTERED ELECTRICIAN

I RONING A CHORE?? NOT ANYMORE!!

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

or e-mail: info@nineelms.com

Ironing collected & returned to your door within 24 hours. Fully insured For a friendly, reliable service telephone 321665

S KIP HIRE

TV & VIDEO RE PAIRS

WEB DE SIGN/PC

^^ ^G OGGLEBOX

Rw,Il cvm p usanly

For further information, call 01793 875854 or 077108333661

BASSETT SKIPS LTD D 2, 4 or 6 ton skips D Same day o ff road delivery 20 to 40 yard roll-on roll-o ff containers J Hire the grab lorry to pick up a pile of waste J Hardcore/crushed

concrete available D Domestic, industrial or commercial

Tel: 01793 848951

TV & VIDEO

REPAIR

SERVICE

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

also undertaken

JCES LID

Established 1993

+ Fully Qualified Web Design

+ One-to-One PC Training + Internet & Email + Word & Excel

* Free home estimates * No call out charge g * All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793 - 812738

REFRIGERATION AND AIR CONDITIONING ENGINEER

+ Digital Photography + Web Design & HTML + Competitive Hourly Rates

Contact Alayne on 01793 875647 w ww.robaynecomputing.biz email: info@robaynecomputing.biz

• FRIDGES • FREEZER • CHILLERS • COLD ROOMS • AIR CONDITIONING UNITS

All domestic, commercial and industrial repairs, maintenance and installation work undertaken

Tel 01793 435722 Fax 01793 435722 O ve r 20 years e xpe ri e n ce

VHS TO DV UM DONT LOSE i7y,^ THOSE MEMORIES A Wedding videos

Irreplaceable TV programmes and spo rt s events

Children's first steps. Birthday pa rt ies. Christenings & Confirmations. n Cine films, Super 8, Regular 8:

repaired. recorded & digital editing A- Obsolete formats, i.e. Betamax, V:deo2000; camcorder tapes Tel: 01793 495733 Mobile: 07940810733 e-mail: vhstodvd@btinternet.com www.vhstodvd.co.uk Lovell Close. Covingham. Swindon SN35BT

54 The Link Magazine • April 2004

SPANISH APARTMENT

DECOTEX

' UNIQUE'----'1- Personal Trainers tc Stylists it Beauticians >r Make-up artists .c Lite Coaches 1c Dieticians >r yReflexologists .`r Marketing PA's Modelling, radio, acting, singing, presenting sessions Reasonable prices. Tel: 01793 704089

- COSTA BLANCA Swimming pool Sleeps up to 6 people Reasonable rates. Call 01793 700253 or visit: www.soain-holidav-apartment.co.uk

I L L;

Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

A V 2;A a

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For Sale

Girls mountain bike, hardly used, suit 9- 13 years old, vgc, £50. Tel: 634993 Raleigh Max bike, excellent condition, suit 5 to 6, £50. tel: 874877 Raleigh racing bike, gents, with lock, £20. Tel: 877166 Shogun Trail Breaker 2, male mountain bike, 15" frame, 26" alloy wheels suit 11yrs to adult, 21 shimano gripshift gears. excel cond, £60 ono. Tel: 331126 Mothercare pine cot with or without mattress, good cond, £20. Tel: 337397

Summer Fruits china, sandwich toaster, clock, knife block, pedal bin. £50, many extras. Tel: 704417 Green cane chair, high curved back, big cushion, ideal for conservatory, £35. Tel:

Kingsize divan. unused, mattress not included, £600 new, sell for £40. Tel: 877166 Antique brass fender, solid, quality. genuine, £250. Tel: 338888 Set 4 dining chairs. Italian design, deep buttoned/studded backs, dusky pink velour, elegant. £60. Tel: 877375 Pine telephone table with drawer, vgc, £15. Tel: 705989 2 seater settee, 2 armchairs, pale green, good condition, buyer collects, £75 ono. Tel: 871656 New white toilet and vanity sink, fittings included, £70. Tel: 07798 671051 Hotpoint frost free fridge freezer, brand new with full warranty, rrp £499, offer iro £350. Tel: 886009 Gas oven, hob & grill, free standing, £30. Tel: 877166 Lightweight Ultra Smart Vac cleaner, new, unwanted gift, £15. Tel: 705989 Velux window, brand new, boxed, reasonable offers considered. Tel: 873251 Radiator 144cm x 81cm, £7. Toetector safety shoes, 8.5, black, brand new. boxed. £15. Tel: 611818 Sunbed, Phillips, 10 tube, Solaria with fan and timer. was £400, vgc, £95. Tel: 07708 656743 Sunbed, Alisun E20, professional solarium, 20 tubes, combination unit, excel condition, £750. Tel: 525148 5 piece drum kit in black, cymbals, hihat, stands, stool, sticks, in good condition, offers over £200. Tel: 07801 035478 Saxophone Alto ProSound, including case, music stand and spare reeds, superb condition, £350. Tel: 871537 Music stand, £10. 8 flute music books, £10. Silver Gemeinhardt flute, beautiful condition, £250. Tel: 347622 1931 Challen upright piano, overstrung. concert pitch, buyer collects. £650. Tel: 347891 Aiwa compact disc stereo cassette receiver, 3 CD changer, £150. Tel: 872784 Mitsubishi rack system in cabinet, record player, tape deck, amplifier, radio, new stylus, £45. Tel: 872955 Sony movie camera, 1.5Mp, mini dv digital zoom with one additional battery, £550. Tel: 872784 Sony Ericsson T68i mobile phone, never used, supplied with/without aim card, £75. Tel: 877490 Nokia in car charger, £3. Nokia battery, £4. Nokia hand free kit, £3. Nokia 3310 covers x 3. £3. Tel: 07818 406638 Sony DSC-P31 digital camera, 2Mpixels, 3 x digital zoom, additional 16MB memory stick, batteries, carry case, new, £95. Tel: 706527 Home computer with 17" monitor, £200. Tel: 872784 Xbox game Lord of the Rings, new, unwanted prize, £25. Tel: 881353 Playstation 2 with 4 games, 2 controllers, DVD, remote control, all boxed, as new, £110 ono. Tel: 613033

(eves)

Bebe 3 in 1 pram/pushchair, basket, raincover etc, excellent cond, as new, £100. Tel: 611818 Brand new Mothercare 2 in 1 pushchair, lil ac and blue, £50 ovno. Tel: 723495 Large selection mega blocks including pull-along trolley, £6. Tel: 704169 Lindam baby steam sterilizer, excellent condition, boxed, £10. Lindam bottle & food warmer, excellent condition boxed. £10. Tel: 618718 ELC trike with parent handle and safety harness vgc, £15 ono. Smoby coupe car with parent handle, Argos p1506, vgc, £14 ono. Little Tikes sit'n'ride car, vgc, £12.50 ono. Tel: 703250 Swindon Football Club long sleeved top, navy blue, size XL, new, £20. Tel: 871590 Designer Amanda Wyatt wedding gown, ivory bodice & skirt, size 14, unaltered, dress bag included, £350. Tel: 871946 Ski suit, ladies, medium, jade green, as new. £35. Tel: 496802 Donnay 8" trolley golf bag, excellent condition, black, £10. Tel: 877490 Lightweight Greenfriend titanium golf trolley, hardly used, excellent condition, £25. Tel: 877490 Dunlop Vision golf irons, right handed, steel shafted. 3-SW, plus metal driver and 3 wood, suit beginner, £30. Tel: 877490 Hermes Deluxe hydraulic rower with monitor, used once, £40. Tel: 872136 Horizon Omega II treadmill, almost new, £580. Tel: 872784

348459

Futon & mattress, double, £55. Tel: 704089

High single bunk with double futon, bed settee, silver metal, one year old, £110 ono. Tel: 877791 Mahogany dining table, 4 chairs, extendable, vgc, £50. Grey office gas adjustable chair, £15. Tel: 702468 Modern lilac DES 3 seater sofa & armchair. 2 years old, vgc, buyer to collect, £300. Tel: 724272 Black seat pads, 3. £3. Grey roller blind, £3. Standard lamp shade, cream, new, £4. Tel: 813162 Chair-bed, vgc, £20. Pine dressing table with 8 drawers, £20, vgc. Tel: 705989 Bedside table, round, chipboard, not painted, 21" high, 18" across, £3. Tel: 526007

Weights bench with 20kg bench press. Single bed base, silver metal construcleg & arm curls, £20. Tel: 877166 tion, as new condition, £40. Tel: 870810 Dining table and 4 chairs, solid wood Bev'd mirror, 23" x 33" plain gold frame, and hand waxed, Indian design, L170cm new £20. Tall lamp stand, polished dark x D 90cm x H 77cm, £250. Tel: 726145 mahogany, green shade, excellent con(eve) dition, £15. Tel: 879727 r

-------------------

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'Upholstery

Upholstery repairs &

recovering from £18 Large range of materials or in your own For further details call 01793 871808

For Sale

Table, glass top, chrome legs with 6 chairs in black leather, excellent condition, £100. Tel: 701807 Large corner unit, solid wood and metal work, hand waxed, Indian design, height 193cm, £150. Tel: 726145 (eve) Old Charm dark oak Welsh dresser, excellent condition, £400. Tel: 873124 Old Charm dark oak dining table and 6 tapestry chairs, excellent condition. £450. Tel: 873124 Solid oak, Old Charm sideboard with dresser top. excellent condition, £550 ono. Tel: 704646 Habitat sofa, terracotta, bought for £1,000 sell for £200. Tel: 704089 2 seater sofa, 1 armchair and footstool, cream and gold, 8 months old, new condition, £400. Tel: 882228 Boston 3 door wardrobe with mirror. Boston bedside cabinet, beech, new condition. £150 ono. Tel: 882228 3-2-1 suite, dark grey, good condition, £150 ono. Tel: 339317 Four antique blue velvet padded chairs £65 ono for quick sale. Tel: 704089

,.D.

For Sale Monitor 15" OK cond. Free. Tel: 872282 Vtech PC Endeavour for ages 9+, 72 activities, boxed, bril condition, £25. Tel: 700996 Computer keyboard £3. Mouse £3. Speakers £3. 25 new 3.5" floppy disks £5. Tel: 07818 406638 Psion 3C, 2MB memory, PSI-WIN 1.1, PC link cable, leather case, good conditi on, £30. Tel: 320850 Conway Conquest trailer tent, complete with extras, excel cond, £2,300. Tel: 702206 Four berth tent, only used twice, £50. Tel: 634993 Lawn mower, brand new, £50. ono. Tel: 704089 Flymo Compac 300, grass box, cable, used one season, £35. Tel: 872202 Thai style 60" punch/kick bag & wall bracket, new condition, £45. Tel: 465460 Windsurfer Fanatic Bee 284. 115 Itrs, vgc, easy to sail, £125. AHD Power Wave 262, used twice, £350. Tel: 824562 (eves & weekends) Windsurfing sail Gaastra Total Flow, 5.4m £75. Tel: 824562 (eves & w/end) Silver Leader disabled scooter, 4-wheel, hardly used, good condition, £850. Tel: 533952 Mobility scooter, TGA Supalight newest lightweight design, £500. Tel: 323446 Cavalier CDx 1 6v, auto, four door, CD, FSH, black leather, taxed April, MOT November. Tel: 877791 Toyota Hi-lux Surf 2.5 TDi, auto, 78,000 miles, 1 owner, bull bars, side steps. grey/green metallic, new MOT & tax, 2 4.300. Tel: 07940 635988 Vauxhall Cavalier LXi alloy wheels, x 4. good tyres, no punctures, vgc, £50. Tel: 878587 Motorcycle Kawasaki GT750, 1984, silver. vgc, low mileage below 20,000. shaft drive, reliable, new rear tyre. £950 ono. Tel: 636322 Piaggio scooter, black, warranty til Aug 06, excellent condition, very nippy around town, very economical, 2003 reg. Tel: 727593 Truckman top. white, will fit Vauxhall Brava, vgc, easy to fit, £200 ono. Tel: 07754 245160 Alloy wheels for Vauxhall Corsa/Tigra, 15 inch, excellent condition, £125. Tel: 635258 Roofbox, Thule Alpine 100, v good condition, 300 litre capacity, hardly used, £80. Tel: 320850

To let Room with en-suite, furnished, all mod cons, garage, Swindon, inc bills £390. Tel: 07919 413729

2 bed house in Westlea, newly decorated, gas central heating, garden, garage, non-smoking, £495/pcm. Tel: 878605

The Link Magazine • April 2004

West Churches in the UK top 50 Fairtrade groups

Registered Childminder

Swindon celebrated the tenth anniversary of Fairtrade during Fairtrade Week at the beginning of March with a conference for business leaders and local coffee mornings. A get together at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw celebrated the fact that, with sales hitting £8,000, the West Swindon Fairtrade Group is one of the top fifty in Britain.

With a turnover of about £5 million in its first year of activity, Fairtrade is now on route to a £100 million turnover and represents the consumer doing something

practical to help producers in poorer countries to improve the conditions in which they work and live. Fairtrade goods are now stocked by the main supermarkets and cover a wide range of goods Shaw vicar Rev Steven Skinner judged a dozen cakes in a competition using from tea, coffee and chocolate to the same recipe made from Fairtrade bananas. Offering up entries, front, Kathy dried fruit, bananas and clothing. Kirby, Beryl Hammond. Back from left, Clare Comm. Peggy Stevens, Di Fairtrade coordinator Natasha Benbow, Val Hemmons, Sandra Herbert, Natash Murphy. Holding the baMurphy said it is becoming more nana Amy and Luke Murpht/ i mportant than ever to think about the conditions in which people work in developing countries. "Next time you buy a brand name garment, think about the people who made it and whether they had to work in unacceptable conditions so that you could buy a bargain. "Working in Fairtrade conditions, producers get an agreed wage which they can invest in their farms and buy education or medicine for children who don't have to work in sweatshops "It might cost a little more, but Fairtrade goods definitely taste Hail to the Hills better and just think of the benefit Friends of Jean and Geoffrey Hill of Grange Park gave a farewell you're buying for others." party for them in mid-February, before they left for pastures new in Fairtrade Hot Cross buns Bedfordshire. Try out Fairtrade goods at a coffee Many people in West Swindon morning on Thursday 8 April, will have been acquainted with 11am, at Holy Trinity Church, the couple through their many Shaw Village Centre. links with St Mary's and the other churches of West Swindon, plus other community activities. In the past 18 years, Jean was heavily involved with Brownie packs, supporting and campaigning for FairMobile Hairdresser trade and tutoring Basic Maths for Has now joined Cre'8 Hair & Beauty Salon in adults at Swindon College. Greenmeadow and would like to invite her clier The couple originally moved to past and present to join her for that Cre'8ive lot Swindon as Geoffrey took up the For an appointment post of chief finance executive with Tel: 01793 520813 the Bible Society at Westlea. British missionary doctor workIn his retirement, Geoffrey de- ing in the Congo, Central Africa. MOBILE HAIRDRESSING voted his time to voluntary chariJean and Geoffrey said that their b C4 farian table work, administering a trust most precious memories of their fund for disabled children's time in Swindon are the many Looking for a change? projects in Africa and as treasurer friends they have made; all who Cuts, perms, hi-lights, tints Reasonable rates for St Julian's Retreat House. have known them will equally re15+ years experience He also forged strong links be- member them with affection and , For an appointment tween the Church in West Swin- gratitude for their kindness and telephone 874335 don and Dr Francesca Elloway, a hospitality.

Experienced 7 years Flexible, friendly, negotiable rates Available Monday to Friday for school drop-offs from 6am to 9am, and pick-ups from 3pm to 9pm Also available all day on Monday. Thursday. Friday weekends & late evenings Call 07957 166529 or 871466

ANNA ELISABETH

Beautifuf handmade,1 wedding stationery Individually designed stationery created with exquisite materials Contact Anna on 07717 775577 or annaelisa bethdesigns@yahoo.co.uk

AMETHYST ^^,1 o CRYSTAL &

REIKI HEALING Julie Hopkins Crystal Healer & Reiki Maste 01793 870109

(1^ HER AL1FE. The way to lose weight We're there for life Call your Independent Distributor

Colin Ward on 01793 343323

Stephanie

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Sunday services are at Oam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050;

e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org the gift of God is Eternal Life" (Romans 6 r23)

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

Meeting at Greenmeadow Prima ry School

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent

Gmenmeadow Primary School

Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church Dart Menus

Wh -h Rd

64006

For God loved the world so much that He gave

His only Son.' John 3:16

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

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