Issuu

West Swindon's

Magazine

CHRISTMAS OFFERS ae

THE

EXPRESS CYCLE (WO SPECIALIST

No. 117 â€˘ December 1991 â€˘ Circulation 10,500

96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon

' (0793) 534907 & 513705

CHRISTMAS ORCCTINOS TO ALL OUR RCADCRS Dress a tree and show how much you care Trees are vital to life on earth and an ancient festival is being revived to demonstrate how much they should be appreciated. Taking a lead from the charity Common Ground, Thamesdown Council's Community Forest team are promoting the national multicultural event of Tree Dressing. Schools, residents' associations, conservation and community groups across Swindon will be dressing trees in their areas on the weekend of 7 and 8 December, as a way of showing off how much they appreciate them. Neil Hillier, a member of the Community Forest team, says that trees are venerated all over the world in different ways and the idea of dressing a tree exists in many cultures and has continued through the ages. The practice is still carried on in a few British towns and in America tieing yellow ribbons around trees has come to sig-

nify the hopes for loved ones in times of crisis. "The revival of tree dressing is a way of showing how much we Preparing decorations for a tree in Swindon town centre,from left, Susan Elmes, Neil Hillier, Lorna Curtis

value trees and wish them to wellcared for. Anybody can celebrate a tree, no special skills are needed. You can do it on your own, with an existing group, or you can decorate a tree in your street with your neighbours. The idea is to participate, to celebrate and to get others to take notice of how important trees are to life." In West Swindon, Greendown and Brook Field schools were the first to comeforward and theSwindon Choral Society will be dressing a 'Tree of Notes' on the Wootton Bassett road. Although time is short, Neil Hillier is interested to know of any groups who would like to participate in the tree dressing weekend so that he can offer useful advice on how not to harm yourself, the tree or wildlife. He would also like to record your decorations for a future exhibition. Neil can be contacted on 493549.

Hospital for west A doctor who set up practice in West Swindon twelve months ago has a long termdreamofopeninga cottage hospital in the area. Dr Rodney Houseman celebrated his first year at the Link Surgery on Saturday 23 November with a buffet reception in the temporary building next to the Link Centre which houses his practice. In attendance were the Mayor and Mayoress ofThamesdownand dignitaries from the Swindon Health Authority.

Car show '92 to bring in the crowds Parents at Greendown School are planninga majorcrowd puller next summer by organising a car show to raise money for school funds. All the leading motor traders in the Swindon area will be invited to set up trade stands, along with car component suppliers and other auto related businesses. Specialist interests wilalso be catered for with displays of custom cars and vintage vehicles.

Adult Education in 1992 course listing on page 14 Have your say at the Link Centre Open Forum - details page 15

Of course not everybody is interested incars and there will bea fun fair, community group stalls and lots of activities for children. The project is still at an early stage and anybody in the auto trade with suggestions, or other people who have ideas to make the event go with a bang, should contact the Chair of the Parents' Council, Greendown, Grange Park Way, Swindon

TheMayorof Thamesd own Coun. Eric Smith toasts the futurewith Dr Houseman In a short speech Dr Houseman said his first goal of setting up a friendly, patient orientated and efficient practice. But his ultimate goal and dream is to erect a purpose built surgery, which will later extend as a cottage hospital. Continued on page 2

Enter our 'Curly Sue' MGM Cinema competition on page 15 Christmas Church Services in the West -see page 16

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"Such a hospital would prove a boon for West Swindon as it could serve patients normally catered for by the main hospitals, but who do not require high technology care," he said. "G.Ps already carry out more minor surgery which means patients don't have to travel out of the area; a small hospital would be an obvious extension." Dr Houseman's wife Pam works alongside him as Nurse Practitioner and runs an Asthma Clinic. The practice also offers home delivery support through a G.P. Maternity Unit and a Counselling Clinic, for which there is a growing demand. ToothillcouncillorRicky Mid winter said he was excited by the prospect of a hospital in the area. 'There is a need for half-way care facilities between PMI-I and going back into the home, with often inadequatecare. I would like to see it happening and will be giving the project my full support."

There are vacancies for governors at Salt Way, Westlea and Toothill Primary Schools. Readers who would like to take up an active role and would be interested in nomination to the governing bodies of these schools, or would like to put themselves on a waiting list for another school, should contact Coun Ricky Midwinter on 873537 or Wiltshire County Councillor Alan Winmill on 875129.

IAshford

Road

where's the party?

Hospital plans continued from page l

Governors wanted

Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S. West Swindon - Tel: 526780 PMH 62 - 64 Purton Road.

Old Town. Tel: 542300 1 Ashford Road (see map)

Well you take a dessert and the recipe you've used to the party. When you get there you buy portions of desserts that other people have brought along to eat-in or take away for the rest of the family. The dessert you take to the party can be rich or plain and as easy or difficult to make as you like. There will be non-alcoholic punch available to make things go with a swing. Friday 6 December, 7.30pm9.30pm at 2 Cromwell, Freshbrook. Audrey wants all Link magazine readers to, • come along and raise money for the Children's Society • enlarge your repetoire of desserts • forget your diet and enlarge your waistline for a good cause. The recipes will be gathered and typeset into a booklet designed by The Link which will be sold in aid of the Childrens' Society by the party organisers. So come ready to

Residential Letting Agents West Swindon properties now required

Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am- 11am

Audrey Hutchinson from Turnham Green, Freshbrook is organising a Dessert Party in aid of the children's Society. Never heard of a dessert party?

Book an appointment with DOREEN your full-time local QUAUFIED ZAHRA PRACTITIONER In the PRIVACY of her spacious house and her well-fitted treatment room you can relax and enjoy Doreen treating you in comfort.

the (7hbr1dtoe Diet

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IIlthk Mu i "The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly. Copy date for January edition: 17 December

Contents 4 6

Toothill Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 Westlea 9 Shaw 10 Local Lives 11 At Your Library 12 Recreation 13 Arts Scene 14 Adult Education courses 15 - 23 News and Views

The January edition will be published on 3 January The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have Sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Mobile: 0831 424 352 21 SPRINGH ILL CLOSE WESTLEA, SWINDON

8717"

TV star Julian Clary will open the St Peter's Roman Catholic Church Christmas Bazaar Sunday 1 December Stalls, tombola, refreshments, Father Christmas

The West Swindon Focus on Under 5s

Christmas Party

ÂśPeis at

with the S&M All Woman Disco

Tuesday 17 December lOam. Community Suite Link Centre

Swindon 87062

Pass the parcel, musical bumps, family favourite sing-a-long action songs, spot prizes, dancing to the latest tunes, refreshments

Quality framing & mountcutting service

Tickets: 25p in advance from Link Centre reception

Home collection and delivery service

A book for Christmas A book must be one of the most useful Christmas presents. Interesting, informative, fascinating, thrilling and something you can be remembered by. What else is so full of added value? But choosing a book can be time consuming and sometimes a bit frustrating. After all, you walk into a bookshop and even if you know what you want you can easily be overwhelmed by the variety and choice. Now a bookshop owner who lives in West Swindon is pioneering a new way of choosing a book. Linda Green from Shaw who runs the Unicorn Bookshop inChippenhamhas started 'Dial A Book,' a free delivery service for any of the 60,000 titles available. The idea has become very popular Linda Green in America and Linda thinks the service will take off here as well 'We're experimenting with home delivery in West Swindon because there isn't a local book shop; it's a good market to try, especially with so many children in the area. People are getting used to the convenience of home delivery for clothes and food, why not books. "Some like to browse, but we're finding that with the publicity books get on the radio and TV and in reviews, more people know what they want, so they don't have to visit a shop. What easier than picking up the 'phone and having it brought round." Linda has all the top sellers on hand and can obtain orders from all leading publishers within 48 hours. She has a lot of contact with schools and has a wide knowledge of children's books. Her advice could be invaluable in making the right choice for a child in the run up to Christmas. Dial Book can be contacted on (96)652024 during the day or 875825 in the evenings.

Tome

&a 7if&l1 vwuu like to wish a11her customers a verzj

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U Tel: Swindon 813485 If you've got a West Swindon story, give The Link magazine a call on 872282

Unattached & thirty something? The Swindon Open Circle is a non-profit making club for unattached people of thirtysomething. Formed three years ago, the club aims to provide a friendly atmosphere where people can meet and take part in a variety of social activities. Quiz and games evenings, 10 pin bowling, walks, treasure hunts and parties are some of the events organised. The Open Circle meets in the Marston Bar at the White Hart, Oxford Road, Stratton St Margaret, between 8pm and 11pm. Newcomers can make a number of visits before deciding to join and lifts can usually be arranged for those without transport. Subscriptions are reasonable and are paid quaterly. To find out more, call Dave Leggett on 723691, Caroline Selwood on 873348 or Dave O'Brian on 431772.

For details FREEFONE 0800 717121 or alternatively call into our showroom in Edgeware Road. For full written details please contact Swindon Cable, Newcome Drive, Hawksworth Estate, Swindon, 5N2 flU.

TOOTH ILL

RALPH PALMER PHARMACY 3 Deethurst Way Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m. 230p.m. - 6p.m.

Telephone: 512063

Assault raises cash Members of the Toothill Community Centre presented a tea towel cheque for £773 to the NSPCC at the beginning of November, with a further £300 to come. Sixteen members of the bar took part in a sponsored assault course at Tidworth Army camp in September along with 72 other teams. Over fifty people from the centre made the trip to Tidworth to support their team. Presenting a cheque for their efforts, back row, Steve McHugh, Chris Brown, Simon Haynes, Tony Graoell. Front, George Brown,Jo Chittock, Glynis Wicks from the NSPCC, Sherry Reid, Christine Healy, Roger Chittock

Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food TakeAway Menu

We wish all our customers a Vey Meny Christmas a Happy New Year Open Mon. 23 Dec. 5pm - 11pm Tues. 24 Dec. 5pm - 10pm

Tel: 487055

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday 12 - 145pm Thursday 12 - 145pm Friday 12-1.45pm Saturday 12-2.00pm

6 -1130am Closed all day 5 -1130pm 5- 1130pm 5 - 11.30pm 5 - 12.00am 5 - 1200am

Table Top Sale Saturday 7 December 1 .3Opm - 3.30pm Toothill Community Centre Tables £4/5 Tel: 614492 to book Refreshments

Toothill School Christmas Fayre Friday 13 December 3.l5pm Santa's Grotto, stalls, Refreshments

Christmas Bazaar Sat. 7 December 2pm - 4pm Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive Father Christmas, Treasure Hunt, Cake Stall, Tombola, Raffle, Name the Hippo, Guess the Smarties. Admission lop In aid of Jack & Jill Toddler Group

Christmas Bazaar Sat. 14 December 2pm - 4pm Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive Homemade toys and gifts Father Christmas and his grotto Refreshments In aid of Toothill Farm Playgroup

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Toothill Neighbourhood Worker Miriam Minty tells the story of the 13th Toothill community bonfire Well this year's annual community Toothill Farm bonfire nearly turned out to be a damp squib - literally. For the first year in memory the event scheduled for Friday 1 November had to be postponed to the following Sunday due to the terrible weather conditions. However activities did takeplace on Friday like the popular and successful workshop led by the multitalented Marie Brett. Local youngsters made ghostly banners and ghoulish masks,as well as colourful costumes which were used ma parade around the bonfire. As ever, the event couldn't have taken place if local organisations and businesses had not helped out. Many thanks must go toWestsafe Fire Appliances for the loan of fire extinguishers and safely blankets. Thanks also to Paragon Laundry for the donation of sheeting which was used in the creative workshops. Cundall Corregated sent over truckfulsof pallets enabling the bonfire tobe built and once again I'd like to thank them for their continued support of this event. Thanks must go also toTony Ford and Brett Walker at the Wyvern Theatre for the use of equipment and their expertise in providing

sound and lighting on the night. Yellow safety jackets and steel buckets were kindly loaned by Thamesdown Contractors, namely Dave Robbins and Mark Rose in Stores at Barnfield Road. The ropes and stakes were borrowed from the helpful staff at the County Ground. On the night(s) and in the run up to the event many people helped out. Eddie East put together a fearless firework crew and engineered the colourful (and loud) display. Thanks to Laurence, Tony, Andrew, all the local youngsters who built the bonfire and to the volunteers who stewarded on the night, especially, Betty, Michelle,Simon, Emma, Tony, Andrew and Sarah (Stansfield Close), and thanks to Sarah also for her help over the whole weekend. Many hundreds of people turned out and enjoyed the event despite the very wet weather. My parting message has to be that if this popular community event is to take place next November, more people have to take responsibility for organising and running it. It's never too early to express an interest, so get in touch soon if you'd like to help out next year. Please call me on 526161.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Council to get wet houses petition Residents ofTheHolbeins inGrange Park are organising a petition to press Thamesdown Council to do something about severe condensation in their houses. Although built only four years ago, resident Bev Pett said condensed water pouring off the single glazed metal framed windows has damaged plasterworkand lifts wall paperbecause the walls are so damp. "1 understand the causes of condensation and I keep windows open and don't dry clothing inside. It's a big problem for many people here." Housing Committee chairman Des Moffatt said that condensation

is a struggle for everybody. However he admitted that he was not impressed by the design or construction of The Holbeins. "I'll go there with senior council officers to assess the problem again, though budget problems restricts what we can do."

Christmas Bazaar- Freshbrook Community Centre Sat. 7 December, 1pm. Ad. 20p for adults. Attractions include Father Christmas, tombola, bric-a-brac stall toys and more. In aid of Rainbow Playgroup

QUALITY SHEDS

FENCING

and Buy Direct from the Manufacturer.

D.l.Y.or Supply & Fit

Postponed from 16 Nove,rer. (The playgroup would like to epologise to anybody who turned up last month)

Local builder sponsors netball team The netball team at Windmill Hill School will be looking very smart when they next turnout fora match in the West Swindon primary schools league after being presented with a bright yellow kit by Freshbrook based building company P&L Browne. The football team would also like to find a kind hearted sponsor. Call the school on 870224 if you can help. The P&L Browne - Windmill Hill School netball team line up, rear, from left, Rachel Wood, Lucy McDonald, Hayley Meredith, Alexes Rooney, Rosemary Ogle. Front, Angela and Lisa Baker, Zarina Na seem, Stacey Meredith

CALL IN ON BULLDOG SHEDS and FENCING

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Telephone: 0793 848674 Evenings: 0793 854967

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Aerial connections still being checked Television reception in GrangePark is still under investigation according to engineers at the BBC. A report for DeVere Hotels concludes that their new hotel does not effect TV reception in Shaw and Eastleaze, but the hill on which it is being built does. The engineers were not briefed to test the reception from the Oxford (Central TV) transmitter in parts of Grange Park where the houses are very close to the walls of the hotel. A BBC engineer told The Link that he would be returning to the area to make further tests.

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening limes: Monday - Friday 9am-lpm 2.1 5pm - 6.30pm Saturday 9am- 12noon

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WESTLEA

Having a good time for school kids

MOBILE SCISSORS

Children at Westlea School who need specialised educational equipment have benefitted to the tune of £125 from social activities at Westlea fire station. A team of firemen visited the school in November to present the money which was raised through raffles and other activities at staff social evenings held at West Swindon's fire station. Teacher Chris Morie said she was delighted to accept the donation which would be used to buy special equipment for the children she works with. Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths will be departing the school in August 1992 to take up a one year post as a primary schools advisor in the USA.

Family Hairdresser in West Swindon © Sue on 539114 24 hour answering

HANDMADE FIREPLACES IN BRICK OR STONE

Presenting a cheque before looking over the fire engine, back row, Fireman Bruce Weatherston, Chris Morie, Diane Gorman, Pete Newman, Roger Rowley. Front, Vivienne Cronin, Clive Hall, Leo Simpkins, Matthew Ellis, Richard Swatton, Pauline Botwright, Moira Colas, Pam Woollard

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Still in time for Christmas

Cocktail rvi 005 Wear & Ball Gowns for sale and hire at The Suit Company Canal Walk, Swindon. Tel (0793) 693875

10 0/0 OFF ANY LOUISIANA CHICKEN PIZZA* AT

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Do you really need to send that Christmas card? by Helen Lawrence of Westlea Church

would save 90 cards and at lOp a Do you find yourself simply swap- time there's £9 to help someone else. ping Christmas cards with people Happy Christmas? you see every day, say at work? Why not save time (and paper) meets in The Westlea and raise money for charity at the Church II School in same time? Way) Westlea Try this Buy or make a large Christmas card foreveryone to write their Christmas greetings. Then for every card you would have sent, but at Everyone didn't - put iop or whatever in a pot 1045am is and send it off to your favourite every very charity. How about Shelter or Crisis Sunday welcome at Christmas? Just think, in an office of 10 people who alisend each other cards, they

—

Westlea shop opens Westlea gets its own much needed local shop on Thursday 5 December. Located next to the Delta Tennis Centre, the shop will soil newspapers, confectionary, tobacco, groceries and frozen food. Newspaper deliveries are planned for early in the New Year. The shopis being opened byRaiph Jarmain, from Stancombe Park, Westlea and will be managed by Ms Wendy Phillips, who has ten years experience in catering. Right: The Westlea shop before opening

ei~~ N M A

sociates

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Swindon 873369 (2 lines) We also cater for all other types of Insurance including Pensions, Savings, Motor, Commercial and Household policies. Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Marketing Group, ( members of which are members of LOU Ir and I.M.R.O.) in relation to life assurance, pensions and unit trust business only REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

SHAW

Workers do better on a good pizza Hungry parents, children and staff of Brook Field School took a we!come break from digging, raking and shifting soil on Saturday 16 November to enjoy a feast of free pizzas, compliments of Shaw Village Centre's Pizzarama take away. Over 100 adults and children were makinganotherbig effort to convert all of the school grounds into an educatioi experience forchildren. Using heavy equipment and tools loaned by local firms, the workers built a 250 yard path and fenced off a pond which was dug in the summer. Describing what is a very long

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term project, Martin Hawes, chair of the Landscaping Committee, explained it would take up to ten years to complete the development of the school site. "Apart from playing football and games in the dry weather, the school grounds are a waste of space; but they have tremendous learning potential. The children have looked closely at the school site and have produced designs for different areas with help from Matthew Hawkins from Thames49wn's Landscape Department." Over the next few years woodland areas, coppices and a wifiow

tunnel areto be planted, nature gardens developed, paths and a playground built. Headteacher Roger Nicholas said the landscaping project was a great example of local people working together with assistance from Thamesdown and Wiltshire Councils, and local businesses. The school would like to thank the following for their help: Pizzarama,T-QualityFoods,Booker Cash& Carry,PowerPlantHire,Isis PiantHire,PaulPiper,Thamesdown Contractos and Barrett Timber. The next work-in will be a tree planting day in January.

Some of the early birds ready to start workat3aQam in the fog

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Peatmoor under 5s slow to get going

The simple answer to hairless, smooth skin

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A new toddler group for Peatmoor, Nine Elms and Shaw has been attracting parents with their under threes, but more are needed The groups, run by Jackie Wozniak, meet on Tuesday morning and Friday afternoon in the PeatmoorSocialHall,Swinley Drive. Unfortunately a group onaThursday morning offering structured activities did not attract anybody at the first session in November, although 30 people expressed interest in such a group. Jackie will be having another go at structured sessions early in the new year. The Peatmoor group needs dona-

tions of toys and other useful play materials like no longer wanted crayons and paper to draw on. Any small items will be welcomed. Parents who want to join in should just turn up. For more information, or to make a donation, call Jackie on 873284 • People not stingy letter page 22. -

Christmas Bazaar Brook Field School, Shaw Saturday 7 December 2.30pm 4pm Stalls, Toys, Tombola, Raffle Father Christmas Grotto -

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LOCAL LIVES

Pioneer of the west looks further back into history

f.,4 ,shre,,.,.= ..k.-, wys

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Three years ago an old family photograph dated 1863 sparked the curiosity and inaginationof Don Leigh from Marken-field, Toothill. Now after countless hours of investigation, he's about to publish a book which brings together his research for future generations.

hoarded items belonging to the family, including dozens of well preserved photographs. With information supplied by relations and visits to the County Records Office at Trowbridge, he has been able to trace the lines of descent in the many branches of the family.

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Sugaring Ladies! Are you tired of unwanted facial and body hair, then why not try the ancient technique called 'Sugaring'. A safe and natural way of hair removal. It is not waxing or electrolysis and there are no creams used.

To find out more about this unique beauty treatment, telephone Joanne Lister your local Zahra practitioner on Swindon 613484 (24 hour answer machine). I am also a qualified beauty therapist doing make up, manicure and pedicure etc. I will do home visits anywhere.

HOMELOVib

Does you home need a little care and attention? From a once-a-year spring clean to regular domestic help, Homelovers has the answer. All aspects of domestic help are covered by this service - ironing, oven cleaning, etc.

Call Les Daniels on 727926

Don with photographs of people he cannot identify Don is well known to many people in West Swindon as the 'pioneering milkman of the western expansion' because he was often the first person they met after moving into their new house. For eleven years he was responsible for searchingout new customers down muddy streets as thearea grew, but although he left the rounds in 1988 to work more sociable hours, people still say 'there's the milkman.' "Seeing that old photograph of a distant relation sparked something in me, but I never imagined that I would have met so many interesting people," said Don. "I cannot understand anybody who says that they've got time on their hands because this project has taken me all over the place researching into photography, coins, family artifacts; it's a case of once you've started, you're smitten and can't stop." On the one hand, he has been quite lucky as the family have been based mostly around Swindon and Malmsbury. On the other, there are a lot of people to keep tabs on. Don himself is one of 11 children and his mother at 80 years of age now has 40 grandchildren. Add up all the cousins, distant relatives and ancestors, and he is dealing with over 1,000 people, 300 of whom are still alive. Those still living in the area get together each Christmas and in the summertheychartera double docker bus for a trip to seaside. Don's research has traced his family back to 1619 and he has photographs of relations going back to 1844. When he first started his project a tip-off from an aunt led him to his father's cousin whose mother

During his research he discovered that three families emigrated to the USA in 1893 and he has been able to establish where they fit in from information they supplied. Unfortunately, and inevitably, there are photographs Don cannot identify and there is nobody alive who can help him. The mystery of who they are will have to remain. However it is remarkable that he has been able to trace the family back so far. "It's not just a family tree," said Don. "With the detail I have on each person, I feel I know them all. And now future generations in the family will know who went before them."

Xmas party at Shaw W.I. just reminderlad ies, that theShaw WI Christmas party will take place in theUpperShaw Community Centre on 9 December. Visitors are welcome. This is the time to forget the hassle of Christmas preparations and join the Shaw WI members for an enjoyable evening. A good time and a laugh guaranteed! Make a good start to 1992 by remembering to attend our meetings on the third Monday in the month at the Community Centre, Ramleaze Drive at 730pm We have a full and varied programme lined up, for every meeting throughout the year. Come and share the fun and fellowship. See you there! A very happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year from all Shaw WI members to readers of The Link.

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Paper books and books on tape Phil Edwards describes some of the latest offerings at the West Swindon Librarian Jack was magic

The visit of magician Jack Stephans over the half-term holiday was a great success with around 250 children, plus parents, mmders and buggies crammed into the exhibition area. Jack held the audience spell-bound, with the help of young volunteers, foraround half-an-hour. The show included lots of audience participation, with Jack giving 'useful' hints on how to do magic tricks, though somehow they never quite come off when attempted by the youngsters. There's more to this magic stuff than meets the eye! Exhibitions

Our exhibitions during December, won't be quite as noisy as the magic show. From 7 December until 21 DecembertheSwindon Artists Society will be exhibiting their paintings and on Saturday 14 December, two of thesociety's members willbedemonstrating their work at the easel. Books on cassette

In addition to the traditional library fare of books, we also hold a collection of books on cassette, a format that is becoming increasingly popular, ranging from romance to crime, biography to humour. In somecases they present the complete work, in othersanabridged version. We have a number of new titles this month. 'Seasons of My Life' is written and read by Hannah Hawswell, a true story of a woman who has spent 60 years alone in a remote Yorkshire farmhouse without the everyday facilities of electricity and water. First shown on television,Hannah's story has since become a tremendously popular book. Hard work and hard weatherhavenotdimmed Hannah's love of the countryside and animals. In another autobiography, the first in a series of five (though the others are not yet available on cassette), Maya Angelou reads herown evocative memoirs of the American South of the 1930s. Both harrowing and humourous, 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings' is a moving testament of one child's early life in a black community in Stamps, Arkansas. An author who writes fiction that reads like it's documentary is Garrison Keillor. When also read by him it sounds very real too. The humour, though, is very dry and subtle. In 'We Are Still Married', he has produced a selection of stories, essays, poems and autobiographical jottings to follow on from the very successful 'Lake Wobegon Days' and 'Leaving Home'. I'm still not convinced Lake Wobegon doesn't exist somewherein the mid-west of America. If you can latch on to his dead-pan style, he's very entertaining.

Tom Wolf's novel 'Bonfire of the Vanities' is now a film starring Bruce Willis and Melanie Griffiths and is both a humourous and almost bitter story of New York's 'class, racial and political structure of the 1980s.' It was a best seller as a book. Books

Again, this month, there is no shortage of biographical works. David Owen, former Labour Minister and co-founder of the SDP, has become something of a side-line figure in national politics. Judging by the sheer size of his autobiography Time to Declare', he's not been taking it easy. He takes us from his birth in Plymouth in 1938 and babyhood in Wales, to his medical studies and early profession in politics with Labour, and the subsequent creation of the SDP, to his current, relatively isolated position, and he gives his view of Britain and politics in the 1990s. It's a heavy tome so if you take it to bed don't nod off; you could do yourself a mischief. The great changes that have taken place in the Soviet Union in recent years have been associated in the view of many people with Mikhail Goberchev. It's fascinating then that his wife, Raisa, should have produced her autobiography, 'I Hope'. Her childhood was spent in Siberia and from those early days she goes onto describe hermeeting with Mikhail, eventually becoming his wife and then 'Soviet's First Lady'. She throws interesting sidelights on the political changes in the Soviet Union and on their meetings with heads of state across the world. Finally, 'Our Kate' is the autobiography of one of this country's most popular authors, Catherine Cookson. Now appearing in a revised edition, 'Our Kate' tells of Catherine's difficult beginnings in the North East of England. Her mother, a single parent is the 'Our Kate' of the title and much of the book revolved around their relationship. Growing up with the stigma of illegitimacy, Catherine eventually married and came to terms with her background. She is now the author of more than seventy novels. Christmas closing at the library

This year the West Swindon library will be closed between Christmas and New Year. We shut at Spin on Christmas Eve and re-open at 9.30amonThursday2Januaryl992. From all the staffat West Swindon

library, toallourcustomersMerry Christmas and aHappyNew Year

Put some fun into your Christmas presents or your party at

Stage Corner & Fancy Dress Corner Ballet Tap and National Shoes, Leotards, Tights, Fishnet lights, Legwarmers, Crossovers and many other Dancewear accessories. Theatrical make-up. Ws, Beards, Moustaches, Crepe Hair, Hats & Masks. Large Selection of Jokes, Adults & Childrens Fancy Dress Costumes for Hire.

R.T. Farley

Landscape Gardener in West Swindon 20 years experience. Turfing, Paving, Fencing, Pergolas, Planting New Gardens, Rockery Construction, Crazy Paving etc.

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'TaZ,V,a/ ,- _qe-o7~ SIGN WRITER Specialist in Signwriung vehicles. Also: Glass Boards, Facias, Banners, Vinyl Leering Brinkworth (066641) 716 Mobile: 0831 553198 -

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DON'T MISS THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL OFFER The World of Wessex WESSEX Hawksworth, Swindon Telephone: 0793 541611 CONSERVATORIES FOR DETAILS OF SPECIAL WESSEX OFFER

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RECREATION

Ice specials at the Link Centre for Christmas A Classic Christmas Skate

Junior Christmas Disco

Cool kids dub 'Mega Xmas Party'

Christmas Ice Disco

Thursday 19 December 730pm 10pm. Adults £265; conc. £2.05 Try the Lambada on ice! Lots of competitions. Test your dance skills to the limit.

Friday 20 December 4.45pm 615pm. Adults £1.85; conc. £1.25 Chance for family groups and children under 14 to celebrate Music, competitions & lots of prizes

Saturday 21 December 10am 12noon Adults £2.65, conc. £1.70 While Mum and Dad do that last minute Christmas shopping skate on down to the 'Mega Christmas Party'. Party games, prizes, all your favourite Christmas music plus 'sleigh-rides'. Not to be missed!

Sunday 22 December 730pm 10pm. Adults £2.65, conc. £2.05 Cold ice but a warm welcome at Link's Xmas Ice Disco! Favourite festive sounds as you glide around the ice and leave only last minute panics outside the door! Further details contact Link Main Reception, tel 871212.

Christmas and New Year Opening Times at Link Centre and Delta Tennis Centre

Link 23 December open until 2.30pm 24-26 closed 27-30 open normal hours 31 open until 6pm January open 10am-6pm 2 open normal hours

Delta open until 230pm closed open normal hours open until 6pm closed open normal hours

17v(emj Christmas from

Wests Ode • Sports Shaw Village Centre,Shaw (between JCR & Show Church)

Tel: 875712 Opening Times: Mon, Tues, Fri 10cm - 6pm Wed 10am - 2pm • Sat 9.30cm - 5.30pm

KOTHIL

LATE NIGHT OPENING Thurs 11 .30cm - 8.30pm

WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON WED 18th DEC 1991 — SAT 18th JAN 1992 j. FAMILYPANTOMIME AT OUR MA

Starring

IvrIATIVIYAlly iffLY (TV's You Bet) AS BUTTONS With EMMA COLlIER as Cinders

DAPHNE NEVILLE as The Fairy Godmother

And featuring GRAHAM JAMES MARK SEAMAN & & DAVE LYNN GRAHAM SEAMAN as The Ugly Sisters from BBC Wiltshire Sound Plus The Mollie Tanner Dancers

BOX OFFICE CREDIT CARD LINE

(0793) 694055

(0793) 524481

Mod, po,ibr,by

Arts & RecreHtios BOROUGH OF THAMEsD0wN/r

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING 871793

Sparkling ice spectacular at ice show The Link Centre's annual ice show later this month is going to be an absolutely fantastic production. One hundred and twenty skaters who all skate at the Link rink, ranging from3 years to 84, from champions to beginners, will be telling the story of the Brothers Grimm and some of their most well known fairy tales like Cinderella, Hansel &Gretl and Snow White. Tickets are going fast for the five shows lasting two hours between 14 and 17 December. To guarantee your seat, ring Link Centre reception now on 871212. Right: Two Freshbrook skaters in the Link Centre show, Pat Hughes from Cromwell, left, and Charlyne Denoon from Cottington Close. Cinderella, this years pantomime at the Wyvern Theatre's will be a spectacular. Pictured left, is Matthew Kelly, starring as Buttons, with Emma Collier and Daphne Neville, surrounded by dancers from Swindon's Tanwood School

ARTS SCENE

Come on you Lad's! Do you sing? Could you? Would you like to? The Swindon Male VoiceChoiris lookingfornewmembers as it gets ready to enter its first competitions next year. From its roots in the Great Western Railway, the sixty member choir has builta strong reputation forprofessional performances at the Wyvern Theatre, around Britain and on tour in Germany. All tastes are catered for with a repertoire which includes sacred, folk, traditional, popular hits and music from the shows. Over the years the choir has raised many thousands of pounds for local and national charities. But what makes for a good choir is the strong sense of companionship and enjoyment of music - and the Swindon Male Voice Choir has both. What's more, with a sparkling new, if not outrageous, uniform they look great. So, if you're male, you like singing and you want to meet others who do as well.....and you want to show off a little, this is for you. The choir rehearses at the New Century Club in Gorse Hill on Monday evenings. To find out more, ring Russell Jones on 873563.

Top Crime Writer comes to Link Arts!

1 f4RN::::: ANC

by Link Centre Arts Coordinator Clarry Bean

Yes, this month we've got a bit of mystery and suspense at Link Arts as well as our regular blend of comedy, music and family entertainment. Tuesday 3rd: Cohn Dexter Writer of the Inspector Morse novels, Cohn will talk about his work, answer questions and sign books. 730pm. £4.10, £3.05 concessions Thursday 5th: Film-Miller's Crossing(18) The crime theme continues with this witty, weird and wonderful tale of gang warfare in prohibition America. 745pm. £2.30, £1.80 concessions plus £1.00 membership Friday 6th: Jazz - Taboola Rasa This exciting six-piece band's infectious and accessible blend of world dance rhythms went down a storm last time they played here! Doors open 8pm. £5.00, £4.00 concessions Saturday 7th: Indie rock -The Family Cat. Independent band who re-emerged at Reading Festival earlier this year, revitalised and ready for success. Doors open 8pm. £3.50 in advance, £4 on the door. Tuesday 10th - New Comedy Our final 'alternative' comedy night of the year with Paul Ramone and friends from the London comedy club circuit. Doors open 8pm. £5,4 concessions

Friday 13th - Rock into Christmas A chance to let your hair down as Bardiche and other local bands rock the yuletide. Doors open 8pm. Saturday 14th: Family Entertainment - Groundwell's Greatest Hits Ghostbusters, Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and a host of other characters feature in this enterta ining journey through Groundwell Arts' remarkable repertoire. 230pm. £2.55 adults, E2.05 children Merry Christmasand I look forward to welcoming you to Link Arts in 1992

TI.

SF acember 8pm ; Wroughtun dh with thE an Band ne uf Britam s bstfoIk bands.

Tkkets: £4.75, Conc. £3.50. Under 12s LI, fr ,14HO7

Inspector Morse detector, Cohn Dextor

PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar. Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24 hrs)

WHEN YOU BRING YOUR CAR TO US WEST SWINDONS NEWEST M.O.T. CENTRE IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SIT BACK AND ENJOY A COFFEE WHILE WE WORK ON YOUR CAR Were her. next to the IncInerator -

• M.O.rs WHILE YOU WAIT • FULLY EQUIPPED WORKSHOPS

• SERVICING AND TUNING • WELDING AND BODYWORK REPAIRS • 24HR BREAKDOWN AND RECOVERY • WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND TRACKING • STEAM CLEANING • WE CAN ALSO COLLECT YOUR CAR

AUTO SERVICES UNIT 10, RIVER RAY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE BARNFIELD ROAD, SWINDON

West Swindon Centre

TEL: (0793) 614442

PAC Westlea

ToothIll

EVENINGS: 615435

U .A .A.

PROGRESS THROUGH LEARN NG N WEST SW NDON JAN - JUNE 92 Adult courses in West Swindon and closeby. All courses take place at Greendown Community School in Grange Park unless indicated otherwise. See bottom left for booking details and telephone number for Adult Continuing Education.

ARTS & Calligraphy

GENERAL INTEREST

CRAFTS

Creative Embroidery United Hall Cricklade

7-9

10 wks 14 Jan

£25

AG402N

Thurs 7-9

10 wks 16 Jan

£25

AG483N

Tues

Canals in Swindon

Dressmaking -All Standards Thu

1.30-3.30

Flower Arranging -o Tom kins School -OlomkinsSchool -Bradon Forest School -Village Hall Lyd Millicent

10 wks 7-9 10 wks 7-9 10 wks 7-9 10.15-11.45 10 wks

Mon Mon Wed Thu

10 wks

16 Jan

£25

AG405N

27 Jan 27 April 4 March 5 March

£25 £25 £25 £25

AG1 08N AG109N AG377N AG476N

Painting and Drawing -Ashton Keynes Village Hall Tues Tues -Greendown

1.30-3.30 7-9

lowks 14 Jan 10 wks 14 Jan

£25 £25

AG281N AG204N

Patchwork and Embroidery Mon

1-3

10wks

£25

AG111N

70ct

Tues 7-9

10 wks 21 Jan £25

AG206N

Upholstery & Soft Furnishings -Town Hall Annexe Cricklade Wed 7.30-9 -Greendown Thurs 7-9

1 Owks 15 Jan £25 lowks 16Jan £25

AG386N AG41ON

BUSINESS, FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT Sales Promotion -[derived from CAM syllabus) MG21 1 N 14 Jan £25 Tues 7-9 5wks Marketing Communications - (derived from Institute of Marketing syllabus) MG212N 5 wks 10 March £25 Tues 7-9 Investment and the Stock Exchange - A Laypersons Introduction 5 wks 4 March £12.50 MG313N Wed 7-9

COOKERY AND SUGAR SKILLS Cake Decorating - Basic Sugar Flowers Wed 7-9

10 wks 15 Jan £25

FG31 6N

DANCE, DRAMA, MUSIC ETC 10 wks 13Jan £18.75

DG121N

Ballroom/Latin American Dancing - Improvers Wed 7.30-9 -Oliver lomkinsSchool

10 wks 15Jan £18.75

DG321N

Parent & Toddler Movement to Dance. 12 family group places. (Repeated in Summer Terms)- Link Centre, W Swindon NG325N 5wks 8Jan £8 Wed 10-11 NG327N 5 wks 8 Jan £8 Wed 11-12 NG326N 5 wks 4 Mar £8 Wed 10-11 NG328N 5wks 4 Mar - £8 Wed 11-12

7-9

1 wk

31 March £2.60

UG246N

Understanding Your Dreams An introductory course for anyone interested in exploring and sharing their dreams. In a supportive group setting learn practical techniques to help you recall and interpret your UG216N 10 wks 21 Jan £25 Tues 7-9 dreams.

HEALTH, BEAUTY & HAIRDRESSING 28 Jan

£20

PG225N

Hypnosis for Relaxation, Positive Thinking and Stress Control 10wks 16Jan 7-9 Thu lowks 30Apl Thu 7-9

£25 £25

PG42IN PG422N

7-9

8 wks

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT! EFFECTIVENESS Assertiveness Training Assertiveness training is about learning to say what you think, feel and need whilst respecting other people's right to do the same. This course is an opportunity for men and women to come together to look at different and more effective ways of communicating with other people. This course will be run jointly by two experienced tutors. UG424N 8wks 23 Jan £34 Thurs 7-9 Assertion Training for Women

Tues 9.45-11.45 10 wks 14 Jan £25 10 wks 29 ApI £25 Wed 7.30-9.30

UG226N UG338N

KEEP FIT, SPORTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Carriage Driving for Beginners. 6 places per course - Lower Shaw Farm, W Swindon 6 wks 29 April £35 KG351 N Wed 6-8 KG352N 6wks 10 June £35 Wed 6.30-8.30 KG446N 6 wks 30 April £35 Thurs 6-8 6 wks 11 June £35 KG447N Thurs 6.30-8.30 KG611N 6 wks 2 May £35 Sat 10-12 KG612N 6wks 13 June £35 Sat 10-12 Croquet -Lydiard Country Park

Tues 6.30-8.30 Wed 6.30-8.30

8 wks 8wks

5 May £20 10 June £20

KG228N KG340N

A Guided Canal Walk Along Swindon's Canals -Fire Station, Fleming Way, Swindon 1 wk 5 April £2.50 KG608N Sun 2.00-4.00

Ballroom/Latin American Dancing - Beginners -Oliver Tomkins School Mon 7.30-9

DIY: CARS, HOMES

Tues

Aromatherapy for Beginners Tues

Photography & Darkroom for Beginners An introduction to 35 mm camera techniques - how to take better photographs and the basis of black & white and colour darkroom practice. The course will involve an additional cost for consumable materials used. 12 places oni AG31ON 10wks 15Jan £25 Wed 7-9 Silversmithing and Jewellery Making

Astrology - An Introduction. How to draw up your birth chart. What astrology is all about UG41 9N 10 wks 30 Jan £25 7-9 Thu and its uses

Keep Fit, Freshbrook School Mon 6.30-8.00 -Ashton Keynes Village Hall Tues 10-11

£18.75 10wks 6Jan 10 wks 14 Jan £12.50

KGr29N KG282N

LANGUAGES Get By In Dutch

Wed 7-9

6 wks 29 Apr £15

LG349N

Get By In German

Thurs 7-9

10 wks 23 Jan £25

LG439N

Get By In Italian

Tues 7-9

6 wks

£15

LG237N

Get By In Spanish

Tues 7-9

6 wks 28 ApI £15

LG435N

Spanish II

Thurs 7-9

10 wks 16 Jan £25

L0436N

Spanish Ill

Tues 7-9

10 wks; 14 Jan £25

LG236N

28 ApI

GARDENS

Bricklaying for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Rd

Wed Fri

7-9 7-9

6wks 6 wks

Car Maintenance for beginners

Thur Fri

7-9 7-9

10 wks 10 wks

Interior Design

Wed

7-9

Woodwork

Tues

7-9

YOGA & ORIENTAL EXERCISE 29 April £20 1 May £20

BG329N BG505N

T'ai Chi - Beginners -Oliver Tomkins School

Thurs 7-8

10 wks 9Jarr

£12.50

YG432N

16 Jan 17 Jan

£25 £40

VG41 7N VG503N

TaiChi - Improvers -Oliver Tom kins School

Thurs 8-9

10 wks 9Jan

£12.50

YG434N

10 wks

15 Jan

£25

AG333N

10 wks

14 Jan

£25

AG222N

Yoga: Hatha/Raja - Beginners onwards Tues 7.30-9.00 -Westlea School

10 wks 7Jan

£18.75

YG238N

Yoga - St Sampson's Cricklade Mon 7.30-9

10 wks 6 Jan

£18.75

YG1 82N

HOW TO ENROL

Yoga - Village Hall, L Millicent Tues 9.45-11.1 5am 10 wks 7 Jan

In person, come to our office at Greendown School. Open Mon, Tues, Thurs mornings to 1230pm, or Wednesday afternoon.

Yoga- Infant School, Purlon Tues

Pick up an enrolment form from Greendown reception, evenings 630pm - 8pm

Yoga - Village Hall, Purton

For further information about courses, childcare facilities and concessions for those receiving benefits, ring (0793) 871413.

Wed

7.30-9

10 wks

7Jan

£18.75 YG27IN

10-11.30

10 wks 8 Jan

£18.75 YG372N

10 wks

8 Jan

£18.75 YG382N

10 wks

8Jan

£18.75 YG384N

Yoga - Methodist Hall Blunsdon Wed 10-11.30 Yoga- Parish Hall Cricklade Wed

£18.75 YG273N

9.45-11.15

Changes at the Link Centre Management at the Link Centre can only get better, says coordinator John Fisher. From I January the centre and another eleven recreation facifities across Thamesdown become independently run, followingtheawani of a management contract under the government's Compulsory Competitive Tendering laws. The six year contract sets down how the facilities will be managed and the level of service the public should expect to receive. To prepare for the changes John Fisher is leaving the Link Centre to become Recreation Services Manager, headingup the management team running the twelve recreation sites in Thamesdown. "The tendering process has made us look very closely at how we operate inonierto raise standards," he said. The Open Forum advertised on the rightisan opportunity for readers to find out more about the changes and ask questions of the

Thursday 5th December, 7pm Community Suite, Link Centre After 6 years of operation, Link Centre is now firmly established in Swindon, but as the centre continues to develop it is important that the community has a say in the way it provides a service.

Parting shot for John Fisher from Link Centre promotions officer Anya Kent, left, and Community Suite worker Mary Poultney in aid of Children In Need

new recreation management team. The new man in charge of the Link Centre will be Roger Burn, presently deputy manager at the Oasis Leisure Centre.

Opening Boxing Day at MGM Shaw Ridge

Thamesdown Borough Council, through the Recreation Sub-Committee, is very interested in having your views on the facilities provided, the programme of activities, prices, opening hours, access, cleanliness, advertising and the many, many other topics you, the customers and users, might like to raise. We want to hear your comments, criticism, suggestions and compliments.

LINK r CEN it

•1

OPEN FOR1,,..

In the firing line will be: •

Big laughs come in small packages Answer the three questions below and win a Curly Sue rag doll, a packet of colourful bendy hair rollers and a Christmas stocking full of goodies, and what's more mum or dad win a cut and blow dry from Cut 'n Dry at Freshb rook Village Centre. 1. John Hughes wrote, produced and directed Curly Sue. He also wrote and produced one of the most successful comedies of all time. Was it: a. b. c.

Airplane Home Alone Big

Starring James Belushi Kelly Lynch and Alison Porter as Curly Sue

Councillor Maurice Fanning Chair, Arts and Recreation Committee Councillor Bob Pixton, Chair, Recreation Sub-Committee Graham Swatton, Head of Recreation Services John Fisher, Link Centre Co-ordinator

• • •

Also present will be officers and member representatives from the Arts Suite, the Community Suite and Library sections of the Link Centre. Everyone is invited and will be most welcome to come along and contribute, or just listen to the discussions. If you are unable to attend or feel embarrassed about speaking in public, please complete the form below and we will ensure your point is raised. q

Can't come? Don't want to speak in public?

Use the space below to put your point of view or a question. Send it to the Link Centre, West Swindon. Drop it in at reception, or bring it with you on 5 December and put it in the box before the Open Forum starts.

2. James Belushi, who stars in Curly Sue, originates from which famous American City? a. b. C.

Chicago New York Detroit

3. Alison Porter co-starred as one of Steve Martin's daughters in which comedy film? a. b. c.

Roxanne All of me Parenthood

Send you replies to The Link Maazine, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by Monday 23rd December

Name:

Address:

Your identity will not be made public, but your details will enable us to ensure that you receive details of the reply.

Your Contribution is Vital Please Have Your Say! L

tecreation Services

BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWNMJ

NEW & VIEWS

PB PLUMBING SERVICES Boilers Serviced • Pump Fitting Service • Waster Softeners Fitted • Washing Machines and Dishwashers Installed

Tel: (0793) 642995

Thamesdown Christians Against Homelessness are planning a Christmas refuge. Volunteers are wanted to help in whatever small way possible. Call Betty Spence on 485483 with offers or donations of food, bedding, clothing, etc.

Toy Service Sunday 8 December, 1 O.3Oam Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Centre A service for all the family including a collection of toys in aid of the NSPCC

FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTANCY

At Church this Christmas Toothill Church Sun 22nd 1 O.45am Communion Service 4.00pm Christingle Service Christmas Eve 11 .3Opm Midnight Communion Service 1 O.45am Worship for all ages with Communion Christmas Day

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Sat 7th

FOR THE SELF EMPLOYED & SMALLER BUSINESS + EASY TO USE Accour'.rrs PACKAGES WITH VIDEO AND GUIDE + KEEPS BOOK-KEEPING TO A MINIMUM AND LETS US GIVE A FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTS/TAX/AUDIT SERVICE + HOT LINE SUPPORT - REGULAR HELP MEETINGS RING NOW FOR FREE NO OBLIGATION DISCUSSION MILL HILL ASSOCIATES • TEL: (0793) 874260

'..'

AAAAAAAAAAAAA A AAA A AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA ,..F '..F '..F .F .F 'I .F %;i '..F ',.P .F '.1 '.J '.) '..F ..P '..F to 'J %; '..F '' '.1 F) Id '.i F) F) '.1

Raymond Stansfield

DECORATOR with over 30 years experience. Craftsman in Paint and Decor A

SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes.

Telephone: (0793) 874299

A . A .J 11 '.151 51 51 St 51 51 '.1 51 Si SI S/ 11 SI 5/ S/S/S/SI 5/ SI 5/51 5/S/ '.15/5/5/ S.F S.F AAAAAAAA AAAAAAAA A AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAt

MUG your kids at home

Sun 22nd Christmas Day

St Peter's Roman Catholic Christmas Services Christmas Eve Christmas Eve Christmas Day

600pm Children's Christmas Mass 11 .3Opm Carols followed by Midnight Mass 1000am Christmas Mass

Holy Trinity Church, Shaw 10.30am Children's Carol Service 630pm Lessons and Carols 1130am Communion Service Christmas Eve 9.30am Communion Service Christmas Day 1 0.30am Family Service Regular Sunday Services are at 1 O.3Oam and 630pm Sun 22nd

Westlea Church, Westlea School, Langstone Way Sunday 15th Christmas Day

4.00pm Carols and mince pies 1 0.45am Family Communion Service

All Saints, Lydiard Millicent Sun 1st Sun 8th Sun 15th Sun 22nd Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sun 29th

800am Holy Communion 1 0.3Oam Morning Worship 1 0.30am Parish Communion 630pm Evening Worship 8.00am Holy Communion 1030am Christingle 1 O.30am Parish Communion 4.00pm Carol Service 11.3Opm Midnight Communion Service 800am Holy Communion 1 0.3Oam Christmas Worship with Communion 1 0.3Oam Morning Worship 630pm Evening Worship

St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze (in Lydiard Park) Sun 1St Sun 8th

BELT

Sun 15th

them In the car

Sun 22nd

Swindon Seat Belt Centre Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate Sheppard Street, Swindon Tel: 488622

6pm Christmas Musical The Gift,' followed by coffee and mince pies and Christmas book fair (open from 3pm). 1 O.00am Christmas Praise for all the family 630pm Carols by candle light 1 0.00am Family Worship

Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sun 29th

1 0.3Oam Family Service 630pm Parish Communion 10.30am Parish Communion 6.30pm Evening Worship 10.30am Morning Praise 6.30pm Parish Communion 1 O.3Oam Family Communion & Nativity 630pm Festival of Lessons and Carols 1 0.00pm Prayers for Peace 1130pm Midnight Communion Service 1 O.3Oam Christmas Service 1030am Parish Communion 630pm Evening Worship

NEWS & VIEWS

Bank for the 1990s celebrates first birthday The Midland Bank's newest and most successful branch in Wiltshire celebrated its first anniversary on 12 November. Over the last twelve months the branch on the Delta Business Park in Westlea has attracted over 500 new accounts, whilst the number of people using the customer advice and till services, and the automatic telling machines is now averaging 10,000 a month. David Fleck, area banking manager for Midland, said that opening new branches is always risky, particularly in the economic climate of the last year. "The decision to go ahead has been proved absolutely right. The number of new accounts in the personal and business sectors is better than we expected." The design of the bank is radically different to most with a small secure money handling area and more space given to customer circulation and a 24 hour self service lobby which customers enter using a special key. Branch manager Elaine Tucker described the year as fantastic. "It's been my first opportunity to run a branch as 'my own business' and it's been a tremendous challenge to develop the operating systems and establish such a good working relationship between the staff and our customers."

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Two Link magazine advertisers, Tom Taylor from West Side Sports, left, and Sharon Fowler who runs Fairytale Bride, get ready to cut a birthday cake with branch manager Elaine Tucker and area manager David Fleck The branch is designated an Enterprise Centre with Ian Larrard in charge. He spent a year on secondment with Swindon's Great Western Enterprise business advice agency and has a wealth of experience in helping small businesses.

The easy to reach location of the Midland Branch at Westlea has also proved very convenient for local people and passing customers said Elaine, as well as tennis players from all over the world who come to play at the Delta Tennis Centre next door.

Christmas Bazaar Saturday 14 December 2pm Community Suite, Link Centre Organised by 1 st Toothill Scouts

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NEWS & VIEWS

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Boys group looks for more members AToothill based youth group which started six months ago is now ready to expand by taking in more youngsters. TheSalvation Army Boys Adventure Corps (SABAC) for 6 to 14 year olds started in June atToothil Community Centre to give boys another useful activity based group to go to. Group leader Clive Alexander said he was thrilled by the initial response and having established the group, there is room for more to join in. Fifteen to twenty boys turn up

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each week for a session of games, indoor sports and craft work. In the better weather Clive is planning to run cycle maintenance sessions, youth hostel weekends and summer camp trips. "SABAC is a good way for young boys to gain confidence, discipline, learn how to work togetherand have fun, and learn how to follow the path of Christ," says Clive. Parents can take their sons along to Toothill Community Centre on a Wednesday between 6pm and 7.30pm or can call Clive on 826428 for more information. After a mask making session at SABAC, front row,Richard Legg, Ashley Rodney, Paul Weller

Bookies, video shop or what? A bid to set up a betting shop in an empty shop unit at Toothill Village Centre gets its first test at Thamesdown Council's Planning Committee on 3 December. Following TheLink magazine's exclusive story last month, local councillorRicky Midwin ter received seventeen telephone calls objecting to the idea of opening a bookies and two in favour. He declared his objection to the proposal last month, taking the view that there must be other uses for the shop which will benefit the community as a whole. And he is bringing Thamesdown Council's own shopping provision policy into play and has criticised its letting policy as well. "The council's policy on letting shops says that where there are less

than five shop units, they must be let for retail or service uses. The planning committee will be faced with the choice of breaking its own policies. "I've had an interest from a video hire shop, but I'm very concerned that the council is not encouraging the idea because it has a lease with the M&W store which includes exclusive video hire. This arrangement is uncompetitive, doesn't help the community and can't be commercially favourable to the council. We need to broaden the range of services available in the area." Alan Jennings from Shaw, who wants to open a video hire shop, said Toothill does not have a complete video service and a shop would do well. He already runs a mobile video hire van in West Swindon

Advice in the cold weather With the cold weather here Toothill Advice Point are willing to make home visits to disabled or elderly housebound people who are notable to reach Toothill Community Centre where it meets. Subjects such as statutory benefits, housing problems and debts

are covered and all advice is independent and confidential. The Advice Point is open onTuesday mornings from 10am -12 noon for people who wish to drop in. For phone enquiries or home visit appointments call 614492 on Tuesday mornings.

Doing more for youth Due to the popularity of the Tueday • 7pm to 815pm is for 10 to 14 year olds and youth drop-in sessions at Toothill Community Centre, the evening is • 830pm to 9.45pm is for 15 to 18s. being split to cater for different age There's a pool table, table tennis, music and refreshments available. groups.

C.J. PARRY MOBILE SERVICING & REPAIRS OF CARS AND LIGHT COMMERCIALS M.o.T. WORK UNDERTAKEN Major Service from £49 • All work guaranteed Telephone Chris on 431672

NEWS & VIEWS

The only suitable living Christmas present is a pot plant "Think first before giving an animal find them too expensive. forChristmas." That's the appeal to "Also, please don't support the readers from an animal sanctuary trade in imported creatures. Most owner who is often in West Swin- homes are just not suited for lizards, don rescuing animals. snakes and other exotics. If you Denise Barratt, who has run the want to buy a pet, come and see us. Old Farm Animal Sanctuary at We've got dozens to choose from, Grittenham, near Wootton Bassett including some with a pedigree." since 1969, is currently being inunThe sanctuary also looks after lots dated by creatures large and small of wild animals involved in traffic which are being evicted by their accidents or poisoned by pesticides owners. At present she has over 300 in the food chain. No animals are - loads of dogs and cats, ponies, put down unless it is vicious or insnakes, exotic lizards, imported curably ill. birds and dozens of terrapins, now It is entirely funded by Denise that the Mutant Turtle craze is over. and her family and by donations. Another victim of pet crazes lately She only accepts food stuffs so that are Pot Bellied Pigs and sure enough, people know all their cash is going Denise has a few in rescue. to the animals. Adding to the pre-Christmas rise To buy a rescued animal or to in demand for rescue, mortgage make a donation of food, telephone problems and failing marriages Denise on (0666) 41726. mean that animals are being turned Matthew raises cash out in larger numbers than ever. for sanctuary 'Please don't make an animal a Matthew Fiddes of Grindel Drive Christmas present unless you're Grange Park undertook a sponsored convinced it will be well looked af- walk along Shaw Ridge parkway ter. A puppy looks cute, but soon with some friends and their dogs at it'll start messing up the furniture the end of August. Altogether they and they cost a lot to keep healthy raised £138. Matthew was featured and fed. By March we'll have an- in The Link last year after he raised other rush on our hands when peo- over £450 for the PMI-J Special Baby ple get bored with their new pets or Unit. Pictured below, Matthew Fiddes sitting on his donated foodstuff for Denise Barratt, left, and Kathy Barrett, Manageress of John Tooiner Animal Food at Blunsdon which topped up the amount raised with an extra donation

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NEWS & VIEWS

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A sweet way into business It's nearly 1992 and there may be a few women in West Swindon who are lookingfora newdirection. Now there's a chance to take up training in one branch of beauty therapy and set up your own business. The School of Sugaring is a new organisation set up to offer independent courses in the increasingly well known and popular method of hair removal. The school has been setup by Sue Nugent who was the first sugaring practitioner in the area. That was three years ago and she has now progressed to instructing others in the practical skills of sugaring. Courses run by the school provide a comprehensive training in the theory and technique of sugaring and are designed to suit the housewife who is looking to establish her own successful and rewardingbusiness, and the qualified beautician who wishes to expand the services on offer. Sue Nugent says, "Hair removal by sugaring is now becoming so

Southern flavours make a hit on taste buds Pizzarama at Shaw Village Centre launched a brand new pizza topping in November and it's become an immediate success. The pizza is generously topped The newest toppingatPizzarama, which has been run as a family busi- with tomato, cheese and diced ness since May by Mike Grey of chicken which has been been mariGrange Park, is Chicken Louisiana nated in a unique cajun style sauce. which was chosen after extensive It has a delicate, lightly smoked hickory flavourand tastes delicious. taste trials by customers. Mike said, "Our regular customSharon Thorne and Alan Whitbread from ATP Financial Services at Shaw ers were keen for us to introduce a helping themselves to some Chicken chicken topping and after trying various recipes, the Louisiana was Louisiana from Mike Grey clearly the most popular. It's well worth a try." Pizzarama are offering a 10% discount on their Chicken Louisiana pizzas which means a saving of 40p, 60p or 80p each, depending on the size purchased. Cutout the voucher on page 6 and present it before the end of January and get that good ole' Southern flavour on your pizzas.

THE SCHOOL OF SUGARING offers independent training course in West Swindon for women looking to establish a successiW and financially rewarding business. Natural hair removal with sugaring is an ideal home based operation, suitable for those with family commitments, women who want to enter a branch of beauty therapy, and qualified beauticians who wish to offer this popular service. Experience has shown that £1 0+ per hour can easily be achieved. If you would like to know more about this unique business opportunity, contact Sue Nugent on 876484.

popular that there is a growing market which needs more practitioners to cater for it. In the past, it cost around £3,000 to train in sugaring technique. A School of Sugaring course costs £1,800, which includes all the equipment and products to become established in a practice. "A lot of women want to work from home, in hours that suit them and in something that has high job satisfaction and is financially rewarding. The courses are tailored to the requirements of the participants, especially if they have family commitments, and are limited to four at a time. Experience has shown that a sugaring practitioner with a regular clientele is able to earn in excess of £10 an hour." Sue says that a course with The School of Sugaring represents a modest investment for a high reward in the long term. The next course starts in January. To find out more,contactSueNugenton876484.

Bonjour Beaujolais The 1992 vintage Beaujolais wine arrived at West Swindon's Hotel Ibis upon horse back, right into the foyer, to be welcomed by manager Mike Mulchrone, pictured right. The Beaujolais is consumed very quickly, but readers will receive a complimentary Christmas glass of house wine with a bar snack if you cut out the voucher on page 17.

NEWS & VIEWS

Letter from Bermuda In January 1988, I, as a very fresh faced policeman was allocated the Toothill footbeat. PC Tom Skillen was my guide. Tom knew most of the area's residents and many of the secrets. When first allocated the Toothill beat, I was told it was a cold place and a difficult area to work. I tried to get as involved with the community as much as possible, visiting the schools, local councillors, hanging around the Community Centre and helping the local Scout group. After an enjoyable 18 months, I spent a short time on a pedal bike at Shaw andRamleaze, then a response card river forPinehurst and a yearat Wootton Bassett. In July 1991, I was offered a post with the Bermuda Police Force. Bermuda is a set of islands in the Atlantic Ocean. New York is about 750 miles north west, Swindon is about 3,000 miles to the north east, and the Carribean is about 1,000 miles to the south. Bermuda, which is protected by a coral reef is made up of 200 islands, the largest 10 islands being joined by a series of bridges. The main island measures 21 miles and at its maximum width is 1% wide. It is a very friendly place with very little crime. Most of the crime is against tourists, bag snatches and occasional breaks into hotel moms. The residents of the islands do not have to lock cars and houses when they leave them. Neighbours know and talk to one anotherand watch out foreach other. The police do not have to help setup Neighbourhood Watch Schemes as each area already sorts itself out. Drugs and motorcycle accidents takeup mostof a policeman's working day.

Richard Pearce, one time Toothill beat bobby and more recently leader with the Toothill Scout troop, gives his impressions of the ideal life as a policeman in Bermuda

The policeforce is self contained, it has policemen as carpenters, control room operators, mechanics, enquiry office staff and secretaries. The word 'civiianisation' has not entered into Bermuda, subsequently the force is 550 strong with a population of only 55,000 to look after. Off duty Bermuda offers a great deal, with numerous small sandy

I No drinking in public (plenty of bars available); 2 No topless bathing or walking around without tee shirts or shorts a top English banker was asked to leave the island for skinny dipping; 3 National speed limit 25mph. There's a ban of 1 year for anybody caught travelling above 45mph;

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4 If you walkinto a storeand don't say hello or good morning to the shop assistant, she will ignore you and probably not serve you at all. Finally, although it's the beginning of November,I am lying by the edge of the sea (in my back garden) catching the last of the summer sun - temperature 80.

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beaches and clear blue sea. Visibility is normally 30 feet down so snorkeling and sub aqua is a must. Sailing, waterskiing and deep sea fishing are major time consumers. Bermuda offers seven full size golf courses,and the scenery going from hole to hole is fantastic. On some of the holes if you over hit a ball it will end up in the Ocean. Before rushing down to your travel agent, Bermuda has a very high cost of living and prices can be considered high. Also there are some little laws that are interesting.

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Letters to The Link Greendown School

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ

years ago that the teachers recruited

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Having been present at the Greendown School Governors'/Parents meeting referred to in the last issue of 'The Link' I would like to say how disturbed I was to see so few parents and Governors at such an important meeting especially in view of the very low GCSE grades achieved by last years' students. Parents have a right to expect the best for theirchildren and one of the impressions I received was that our children havebeen treated as 'guinea pigs', despite having been told four

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bility that the ability level of the students was that much lower than those at the other schools and that the results were consistent with those expected from a new school. As a parent of a student in the current 5th yearl amvery concerned about my daughter's future and hope that some lessons can be learned from the last years' results to ensure that the students are given the best chance this year. We as parents have to share some of the responsibilities for the successes and failures of our children and therefore must ensure that the school gives our children the best. I don't doubt 'Not stingy'

From Jackie Worzniak, Peatmoor Toddler Group There was an article in the Evening Advertiser on 12 November about

the Peatmoor toddler group referring to 'stingy householders' in the area not helping us. I was shocked about the wording of the article as I would never say that anyone was stingy. Myself and volunteers hand delivered 900 leaflets requesting donations of toys and although we were disappointed with the response, we also felt that there were probably good reasons. Perhaps people had had already given their toys to charitable causes or friends. I also feel that this could apply to most firms as well, although one firm promised to donate toys and then changed its mind. A few people have been helping me with settingup the toddler group, orhavemadedonations and l would like to thank them all for giving the new group the boost it needed. Ramleaze Drive dangers

From ADC Lane, Ancona Close, Shaw

People living off Ramleaze Drive must share the same feelings about the road. It's not becoming a race track, it is one! I have written numerous times to the Police, but nothing positive has materialized. They have just passed the problem to the council. I expect that will be that and the next time you hear about Ramleaze Drive is when some poor soul has been killed by a speeding car.

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PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24 hour personal service throughout the year A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED

Sat 21 December, 8pm to 11 pm Community Suite, Link Centre Ballroom and sequence dancing to live music, and refreshments. Tickets: £1 from Norman Bowles on 694425 or on the door.

the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff at Greendown but I question the wisdom of the new mode of education. The old traditional form of education educated most of the senior educationalists and teachers. The system worked for them. Why do they deny it to our young? I await with interest next years' GCSE results but until then I must say that I at least admire the Head Teacher, Ian Matthews. He believes in the system he operates at Greendown School so much so that his own daughter is a pupil. How many of the teachers and Governors with children of Secondary School age who live in the catchment area believe in the system enough to send their children to Greendown?

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Childcare Nine Elms Playgroup require an assisant 5 mornings per week. PPA trained preferred. Please write to Mrs C Elbourne, 7 Pearl Road, Middleleaze, Swindon. Registered childminder in Freshbrook has 2 vacancies full/ part time. Tel: 870037 For Sale Motorola Transportable Mobile phone. Vgc. Tel: 874891 Found Large bunch of keys outside Gainsborough Court group dwelling, Freshbrook. Telephone Mrs Davies, Warden, 870463

THE HAY DIET "Don't Mix Foods that Fight" New course starts 13th January. Monday 7pm - 9pm. Commonweal School The Mall, Old Town. Six sessions -£15. Bookings: tel: 491591 Swindon College. Further info. 813493 Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook Washing Machine Repairs - Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin • Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

What gives you high impact and long lasting advertising in West Swindon? Tel: (0793) 871793 for details

A Blooming Good Christmas What to give a gardener? Claire Beaton make some suggestions

It seems almost impossible to find a gift for a gardener that you can be confident they are going to enjoy. A thoughtful present is more likely to give pleasure so, what sort of gardener are you trying to please? If you see them standing, looking out of the window at a newly acquired wilderness, with a sort of wistful expression in their faces, then you know you need to find a present to inspire. A new gardener needs fast results. What about an attractive container that they can plant up with primroses in the Spring? Or a pot of slow-release fertilizer sachets to keep those plants blooming? Ranunculus or anemone corms to fill the gap to summer bedding? For the gardener whose expres-

sion is a surprised satisfaction at what they've achieved already, see if they own an attractive watering can. If not, Hawes have launched a range of traditional designs in plastic or japanned steel. They look good, and do the plants good. For the gardener whose expression shows they are searching for space, somewhere, for that new plant,find thema new pairof sturdy leather gloves. Their own wear out quickly from hard use! Or a fresh supply of plant pots; plastic or clay will be very welcome. More linkstakes will also be helpful. These Lshaped plastic coated wire plant supports stop all the wind and rain from smashing a thickly-planted border to the ground.

Free mince pies in return for a little digging Parents, children and staff atToothill After School Club are getting into the green scene by starting a conservation project at Toothill Farm. The club want adults from the community to help with some of the heavy work and to get things moving, they are offering free mince pies and tea to anybody who can join them for a tree planting session on Friday 13 December. With help from Ruth Sharpe of the Thamesdown Community Forest team, the group is planning to dig a pond, create a nature garden, wild flower meadow, bird garden with bird observation hide and a shrubbery. After school club development worker Karen Drake said that as the club caters for children aged 5 toll, there was a limit to the amount of digging and lifting they could do and they need help from people liv-

Worsley Road

Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421

Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam

Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone Rev. Peter Grainger on 490498. Church Office, Tel: 873050

Guests coming for Christmas?

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ing in the area. The project was likely to take some years to complete and all interest and offers of help will be welcomed. The tree planting session takes place from 330pm until dusk on 13 DecemberatToothiiFarm. Goalong and enjoy mince pies with the kids.

-K—

'To: Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting House, Swindon SN1 3RW. Dear Chris Highton,

I I I Please play my dedication....

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Date I would like it to be played:

LD edication form from West Swindon's magazine The Link

Please Telephone 876211 ANYTIME

Or call us on Swindon (0793) 420620

Make a dedication on the Chris Highton Sunday Show which is broadcast on BBC Wiltshire Sound between lOam and 12 noon. Fill in the details on the form printed below and send it to Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting House, Swindon SN1 3RW. Every time he reads out a dedication, Chris will mention The Link.

I Dedication for:

Freshbrook Church

Have your house (or just a room) decorated for them

Make a seasonal dedication on BBC Wiltshire Sound

I—

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

TITCOMBE

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