December 1999 Swindon Link

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XPRESS

A Happy Christmas to all our No. 211 • December 1999 • Circulation 20,000

Always at your convenience 2, 4, 6 tonne skips

Phone now on Swindon (01793) 496703

/ j

in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park &

Getting ready for SwinDome Day

Guide to local Christmas church services on page 38

Tuesday 4 April is Sw ndon's day in the Millennium Dome when children and teenagers will present drama, dance and song about the town and Steam, the opening of the new railway heritage centre. See page 5. INSIDE`S Toothill patients get great, new medical facilities. The Phoenix surgery has opened in a permanent building, four years after setting up in the area. Page 6. Big donation A company moving to West Swindon has presented Peatmoor School with £1,500. Page 10. Artforarts sake Children at Abbey Meads school recently spent a week focused on the creative side of the curriculum. Page 12.

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Millennium Thoughts from Africa Missionary doctor Francesca Elloway, who is linked with a West Swindon church, gives a different view Abbey Meads children Tanith Grant, on what Year MatthewPontingandAmberRoland 2000 means. See page 39. hold up their artwork

Storysacks bid for Euro success A project to help early years language skills, developed with the help of parents at Westlea School is being considered for an international award at the end of November. Thought up by former Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths, Storysacks has been nominated to receive a prestigious prize for cross cultural innovation in education. The sacks received Royal recognition when Princess Anne visited Westlea to meet Storysack organisers from around Britain. Story on page 2. Left: Neil Griffiths describes Storysacks to Princess Anne in May 1998

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A simple idea to promote literacy skills spreading far and wide As The Link is distributed, former Westlea headteacher Neil Griffiths and parent Judith Blake are opening up a selection of Storysacks in Weimar in Germany and explaining the innovative concept to an international panel. The Department for Education and Employment put forward the project to be judged by the prestigious Alcuin Award made by the ° p 2 European Parents Association. f Neil's inspiration for Storysacks started in 1993 and was developed with the help of a team of parents at Westlea School, including Judith Blake who is helping him present Strorysacks to the jury over the weekend of 26 to 28 November. Each hand made sack is based on a book and contains soft toys of 1' the main characters, scenary, simple games and audio tapes to illustrate the story. Using the guidance provided

and the sack contents, parents help children improve their language, reading and writing skills and develop confidence. With funding from the Basic Skills Agency Neil left Westlea School to promote Storysacks which are now established in eve ry local education authority in Britain. They are also used in hospitals and as parent training aids in prisons, "I am constantly amazed by the

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princess Anne is presented with a Storysack by Judith Blake

interest in Storysacks," said Neil. "Princess Anne, the patron of the Basic Skills Agency, has taken the Storysack given to her at Westlea to many countries and we receive dozens of calls from all over the world."

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ine • December 1999

A plan for the next 30 years On 3 December a conference at the County Ground starts a two year debate on what kind of town, or city, Swindon should become in the foreseeable future. Sue Bates, Leader of Swindon Council, explains why it is taking place and invites readers to take part. One of the accusations often made against politicians is that they take a short term view. Thankfully, here in Swindon, we have a different political history. From well back into the last Century, local politicians have always taken a long term view. It is because of that tradition Swindon is now such a success. In 1968 the old Swindon Council produced a 30 year plan with the support of Wiltshire County Council and Greater London Council, which enabled the town to turn itself from a declining railway centre into a modern city with an economy which is the envy of many. We now have over thirty eight national and international company headquarters and in 1998 - exactly at the end of the 30 Year Plan - the Office for National Statistics told the world that we had the highest Gross Domestic Product per person in Britain. Swindon really is a great place to live and work. Swindon Council has set up a working party with the task of developing a new thirty year plan within two years. And we want everybody who lives and works in Swindon to have a chance to contribute. A central feature of the plan will be

the development of a major university complex in Swindon based mainly in the town centre. This will hopefully incorporate a joint use public/university library with state of the art IT facilities and a large conference hall which could double up as a concert venue. We also intend to develop a satellite campus at the Oakfield School site with strong research and development facilities and a community education programme, after the school closes next July. Swindon's economy will become more and more dependant on knowledge and our vision is that by 2030, we can truly claim to be a Learning City - a place where we have high quality, well paid jobs and public services and facilities which provide good value for money. Many Link readers may well be newcomers to Swindon and may have only a sketchy idea of how the town has progressed into the success it is today. But I do hope that all will get involved in the discussion of the next 30 year plan. The debate over the next two years as the final plan is developed will be covered in the media. Swindon Council really does want to make the next document something we know has the support and encouragement of the whole community.

Aill

fikM"MORIA"AM&

Publ ished by West Swindon Publications Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: li nkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: General enquiries: Advertising:

Roger Ogle Tel: (01793) 872282 Jenni Fowler Tel: (01793) 872531

Advertising deadline: 10th of the month Editorial: General North Swindon

Tel: (01793) 872282 Tanya Parkinson Tel: (01793) 705105

14 [

PY fete for January Orr 10 December Published: 1 January 2©00 Copyfor February: 12,lanrrary PeJItI

"The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

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The Link Magazine • December 1999

More growth before regeneration? Mollie Groom, a Wiltshire County Councillor from Lydiard Millicent, calls for a pause in Swindon's expansion If Swindon is to retain its attractive green and pleasant environment, we have to think very seriously about what kind of town or city it should be. As I write, we are in the midst of the Examination in Public of the Structure Plan on the next stage of Swindon's growth. House developers are obviously anxious to make capital of their landbanks, opposed by some towns people and environmentalists who want to see more inward growth and urban regeneration. Obviously we have to be forward looking but at the same time consider new concepts. Earlier this year Lord Rogers published the results of his Urban Task Force examination on how to stop urban decay. A major point was the need to stop the ever-expanding housing developments on the edge of STRESSED! In need of relaxation? Reflexology or Aromatherapy could be the answer Call Isabel on 01793 720065 Fully insured. IIHHT qualified. Qualified nurse Answer machine, all calls will be answered No men for massage, only for reflexology

towns that are not sustainable. Recent research by the Bradford and Bingley building society gave Swindon a clear warning. It placed the town bottom of the league of one hundred towns and cities to which firms should locate/relocate. The reason: congestion and lack of a transport infrastructure. Swindon is unique in that it has doubled its size since the last War. However, a breathing space is needed when thought can be given to an effective transport system and improved cultural and education facilities. It is very disappointing to see that these facilities were mentioned in relation to other towns in the revised draft South West Regional Strategy - but not to Swindon. There is also the fact that issues like water resource and treatment need to be addressed before large-scale development can take place. The South West Regional Development Agency has come into being and we are urging it to direct resources to the areas of greatest need, rather than the areas of 'opportunity'. We feel that this appeal will arrest migration to the already well-developed areas.

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Can we be a city when a town centre landmark crumbles before us? Trevor Cockbill, who died in May, knew more about Swindon than just about anybody. A humble man who hated the limelight, he always found the courage to speak out when his community needed him. He impoverished himself pursuing the 1986 - 91 effort to save the Mechanics' Institution for future Swindonians. In his last years Trevor wrote the paper ' This is our Heritage' which convinced English Heritage earlier this year to give the Mechanics an A* listing in recognition of its social significance, and established the national importance of this central but derelict feature of the Railway Village and town. Here his wife Mary Cockbill tells what Trevor thought about the campaign for city status. n the cover of Finest Things Out, his story of the first thirty years at the Mechanics' Institution, Trevor wrote: 'From all O the corners of the Kingdom, they came and brought their skills, this Legion of the Spanner, Lather & Forge' The knowledge they brought to purpose built arts centre at the Link rural Wiltshire was the product of Centre can be converted to a gym, the Industrial Revolution of the which is advertised by saying 'Stop previous hundred and more years. Ageing and Start Living'? ShalIt provided work for other un- low, shallow, I hear Trevor mutter. I pass by the former Co-op buildskilled men who could no longer be supported by the rural economy. ing in East Street, where Trevor It laid the foundation not only for lived above his print shop before the success of the railway between we married, and am appalled with London and Bristol, but for the what they have done to the masinternational communications sive Co-op Hall opposite. 'Kaos'? which followed. This knowledge 'Destiny & Desire'? Just look at Radnor Street cemthey eagerly shared at the Mechanics' Institution, as the true basis for etery, a place Trevor used to visit to gather informaall Swindon s K, tion on those gone subsequent de before, vandalvelopment. They ised, including called it 'mutual the records the i mprovement', Council so neglinotjust'self-help' gently left stored which was the jarin the chapel ingon of the day. A stead of an arsubtle difference chive. It is a good worth reflecting place to visit and upon as we shift look out over the into 'lifelong town, and reflect learning' promoon time and tion. progress and our Trevor would Trevor Cockbill say, "City for the by Welsh artist Andrew Morgan place as individuals in it all. 21st Century? I Look at the circus/fairground think not!" We discussed this often, and it enraged him to think town centre. Imagine the destructhat this unseemly'campaign' and tion of fine historic buildings (there the STEAM museum project, were were some lovely ones, mostly being pursued in the face of the pulled down by the Council), see neglect of the Institution which had the pub-land Bridge Street has besustained the community that the come. Swindonians call this 'the men and their wives worked so centre', yet Stead & Simpson had hard to create, in a time when local no protection as a landmark buildgovernment as we know it did not ing featured in many old photographs. exist. Trevor was a very proud fourth Trevor believed that the heart had gone out of Swindon, and that generation Swindonian who loved the Mechanics' offered a chance to the town. The pursuit of a label, re-light the fire of learning and city status, is really only about 'stacaring, where everyone could tus' - the status of those transient share it. Before it can truly be a officials who occupy the Civic Ofcity, Swindon needs to find its heart fices and mostly don't even live in again, where it always was - at the Swindon, let alone appreciate it. Mechanics', the centre of all that And as for our local councillors well, they need to remember that was good here. Who wants to live in a city dedi- jobs and the economy are only the cated to leisure and consumerism? means to an end. The end being a Where PR puffery tries to distract good life, well lived, that leaves us from the closure of schools, loos something significant for the fuand cultural facilities? Where a ture.

The Link Magazine • December 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Schools get ready for SwinDome Day Tuesday 4 April is Swindon's day in The Dome when the talent of its youngsters will be displayed in the Macdonald's Our Town area. Art displays from primary nity journeys. school children, performers from Each school will also create a Swindon Dance and a choral work three dimensional display using a by secondary school students will suitcase as a focus for painting, showcase the town's history and plaster and papier mach6 modelpromote STEAM, Swindon's rail- ling, and collage. way heritage centre which opens Macdonalds is also paying transnext April. port costs of one hundred dancers, Sponsorship from Macdonalds musicians and a few artists, plus enabled an art workshop on 16 teachers. November for teachers from sixThe rebi rth of 'Trip'? teen primary schools who reTrip was the mass exodus on a sponded to an invitation to take part in a joint project from the edu- summer day out to the seaside by cation department and community railway workers and their families The Link has contacted Thamesservices. Children will be working on art down Transport about organising pieces on the theme of travel and coaches for those who would like journeys, whether they are per- to go to Swindon's day in The sonal, family, school or commu- Dome. Watch this space.

Working out ideas, Anne Wang, Westlea School, Sarah Foulks, education advisor, Mark Hazzard, Windmill Hill School, Celia Yeoman, visual arts officer, Richard Jackson, Toothill School

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A new lottery aimed at Swindon people is up and running and the organisers want readers to keep on buying tickets. Better still, they want people to buy them in advance with a standing order. All proceeds will go to the Prospect Hospice which offers support and respite care to those suffering from motor neurone disease, HIV and AIDS and cancer, and their families, as well as nursing the terminally ill. Tickets cost £1 each and are available from any of the five Prospect charity shops. For a leaflet explaining the lottery and how you can win whilst helping a local good cause, call the organising office on 615870.

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Join i n the fun of CHRISTMAS SHOPPING!. 1

The Christmas Decorations are now up, including a superb children's animated display featuring circus clowns. Bring your family and friends to enjoy shopping in the safe and relaxed atmosphere of the centre over the festive season.

Visit the Traders Stalls within the Centre where you will be able to buy some really Q2 unusual Christmas Gifts including: DRIED FLOWERS, Beanie Babies, ORIENTAL JEWELLERY & ARTEFACTS, Wooden Games and Jewellery, RUSSIAN DOLLS, Kids Clothes, AUSTRIAN CRYSTALS, Bonsai Trees, turned Wooden Bowls and much, much more!

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CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY

More room for patients and medical staff "We're keeping our friendly family atmosphere," is the vow from Toothill's doctor Peter Swinyard. And patients are intent on help- by patient Natta Baker in memory ing. Several hundred turned up to of her husband Les. an open day on 20 November to "The open day was almost overmeet the staff and tour the facilities. whelming, not only by the num"We're very pleased with the bers of people who came along, design and finish of the new build- but also in terms of the supportive ing, and our patients compli- comments," said Dr Swinyard. mented us on what has been "There was a lot of good will toachieved." said Dr Swinyard. "I wards us." always envisaged a permanent Toothill scouts and cubs helped building one day, but never surround the new surgery with Opening new opportunities for pa- thought we would move into such coppers. A sweepstake to guess tient care. Dr Swinyard and his prac- a nice one in which to offer a high the number, donations and raffles tice manager wife Caryl and partner quality service to the people of raised £600 which will be spent on Toothill." curtains for the surgery and a new Dr Robert Forrester The surgery features two con- sofa for the waiting room sulting rooms with potential for a The Phoenix practice opened in third, and treatment rooms. In the a house opposite Toothill village GREETINGS waiting area is a custom built solid centre four years ago with 1,500 NEW YEAR wood receptionists' desk donated patients. It now has over 4,200.

to all the patients and friends of the Phoenix Surgery from Dr Peter Swinyard, Dr Robert Forrester and all the staff 0 0 i ' 0

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o

Our new permanent surge ry at Toothill Village Centre is now open. We are continuing to register new patients and look forward to meeting you.

Our new telephone number is 600440 Phoenix Surgery, Toothill Village Centre

SOUTH LEAZE CHRISTMAS TREES THE WIDEST RANGE OF CHRISTMAS TREES AT THE BEST PRICES If you only ever buy one Ch ristmas tree buy it for the Millennium Ring or fax to reserve your tree or just visit • Free delivery Assortment of trimmings and spuds, firewood, stands etc.Jj Open daily 10am - 7pm

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New on the beat Phil Connor, 38, is the new community beat officer for Toothill and Westlea, with responsibili ty for the West Swindon Centre with WPC Pat Jones. His responsibilityisto He joined the force build up knowledge of three years ago after a career in mechanical his beat area and to make contact with local and electrical engi groups. However his neering. He was also primary task is to deal a special constable in with crime. the Malmsbury area Graffiti vandalism is r ' . Over the summer a problem in Toothill, he was on attachment and so are the gangs of with the burglary young people roaming squad from the rearound causing concern sponse car team before starting the posting in West to elderly residents," he said. PC Connor can be contacted at Swindon at the beginning of Octoher. Westlea police station on 528111.

Drug misuse is becoming a problem A series of drugs awareness sessions were run during November by Druglink at the regular Tuesday evening drop-in sessions at Toothill community centre held by Swindon Youth Services. Organised in response to in- that a toddler using the commucreased evidence of soft and hard nity centre found a syringe, spoon drug use in the area, Druglink and a substance hidden for later worker Nick Bolton talked to collection and use by a drug user. groups of teenagers about the dif- • The Swindon Borough mobile ferent drugs they might come into youth club bus will be at Toothill contact with and discussed the village centre on Tuesday 7 and 21 dangers of taking them. December where activities directed Last month The Link reported at young people will be on offer. Druglink advice session attenders. Nick Bolton, with from left, Jade and Daniel Dent, Chris Another, Alan Saunders, Sarah Armstrong, Natalie Moss, Nicky Keep

7

WESTLEA

Link Centre pre-school has places A well established pre-school has some spaces available for children aged between two and five years who live in West Swindon and further afield. The Link and Learn Pre-School in the community suite at the Link Centre received excellent reports from Ofsted and social services earlier this year for the good grounding children receive in basic skills and their preparation for school. The pre-school is open on Mon-

day, Tuesday, Wednesday: for 3 to 5 years in the morning, and 2 and 3 year olds in the afternoons. Link and Learn have a reputation for being friendly and caring, where children receive a high level of individual attention. To arrange a visit, call the supervisor Gilly Betts on 465464.

Tea with under 3s at Link and Learn with supervisor Ann Hicks. Rear from left, Lewis Parry, Aiden Patterson, Jade Hart, Grant Hiscocks, Faye Rogers, April Gingell. Front, Shannon Smith, Emily Loveridge

Beavers could close at Christmas Westlea's Beaver Scout colony could close down at Christmas unless new people come forward to help out and eventually take on leadership. At present twelve boys aged 6 to 8 meet in the Westlea School Sunshine Room on Tuesday between 5.45pm and 6.45pm. The colony is being run by a team of visiting scout leaders, all of whom are involved in their own beaver, cub and scout groups. At least one new volunteer leader is needed. A larger number of helpers would allow numbers in the group to grow to 24. A scouting background is not required to run the group, just enthusiasm and commitment to give youngsters a positive experience. Full training and support will be provided by leaders in the North Wilts Scout District team. To find out more about helping, call group contact David Franklin on 07899 907125.

John, Brigitte and Anne and all the Staff Wish their Patients a

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Telephone 877422 Ramleaze House, Shaw Village Centre

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Plant your very own dedicated tree for the Millennium and help create a Giant Time Capsule too! LIVE MUSIC, FACE PAINTING, CHILDREN'S WORKSHOPS, GUIDED WALKS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE. Refreshments and toilets available

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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Daughter Val flies in for family reunion

Sad departure

The sudden death of a well known There was a lovely surprise for James and June Kent of Hopton Close, Freshbrook when they were milkman on 4 November shocked preparing to celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversa ry on 12 November. Unbeknown to them their 500 households in Westlea, Freshdaughter Vale rie flew over from Australia to join her brothers in a family get together. brook and Grange Park. Harry Appleby had been the " We were stunned to see her," She said she and her brothers had Airways. They retired to Freshsaid June. "My son Colin had asked kept the trip secret from their par- brook in 1988 to be closer to their Unigate roundsman for six years us to go over to his place at the end ents for six months. "I've not been son and other daughter Gillian. and died of a heart attack loading of October on some wild goose able to attend weddings, christen- Their second son Robert lives in up his float in the early hours. He was very involved in the chase, neither of us could believe ings and other family events, but Norwich. Sixteen members of the family, scout movement and a guard of Valerie was here." mum and dad's anniversary was James explained that he and June an occasion I was not going to miss including four grandchildren and honour was mounted at his futwo great grandchildren attended neral. had made plans earlier in the year out on." to visit her in November, but things Swindon born and bred, the cou- a celebration meal at the Churchill had not worked out. ple moved to Slough in 1955 when House on 6 November. "It was a Dinner lady needed Valerie emigrated to Brisbane, James was employed by British marvellous occasion," said James. Freshbrook School urgently reNew South Wales, eighteen years quires a MDSA (Dinner Lady) beHappy to be together again. June, Valerie and James ago and is now mother to two girls. tween 12.10 and 1.10 during term time. For details, call into the school office or call 872800.

Streetwise councillor Freshbrook councillor Chris Eley will be visiting streets in Grange Park during December, at around lunchtime: 4th/5th Ascham, Woollaton, Bainbridge, Carey, Tyburn, Tallis, Sudeley Way 11th/12th Thurney Dr. and roads off, Simnel, Grindal, Devereux, Mildmay, Eworth He will be leafleting the relevant streets in the week before, with a 'councillor please call' sign. Householders should display this if they want a visit.

Play area sponsorship plan dashed

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The quality of play for children in Grindal Drive, Grange Park has been made poorer because Swindon Council refused to allow a local business to sponsor a play area on reasonable terms. Charisma Blinds proprietors Stuart and Lee Murray who live in the road had offered to take over the small climbing frame and slide after the council decided to remove play equipment in housing areas because they were too expensive to insure. But after months of negotiations, they had to give up their plan because the council demanded £1,000 a year to pay for a daily inspection, a sum based on the average for all equipment across the borough, rather than a cost based on the specfic play area. The Murrays would then have to pay extra for repairs if deemed necessary. "The play area was a magnet for children in the area," said Lee. "It was very sad to come up against such an inflexible attitude. Now the equipment has gone, the area is attracting larger boys from other roads who play football on it which means the smaller children are pushed out. They are in fact playing out less." Frustrated by council actions at Grindal Drive. Rear from left, Lee Murray, Leon Adams, Christine and Christopher Rogers, Georgina Murray, Helen Rogers. Front, Jack Edmonds, Charlotte Watt, Lewis Adams, Samantha Watt, Sam Edwards, Hamish Murray

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Swindon 772779 "Representative only of CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. CORNHILL INSURANCE PI_C is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'. Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5151731 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 222123 Credit broker tees of up to 1% on the advance maybe charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied Is 5.34% (55% APR) for two years. APR Is variable. Rates may ve ry. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subject to status. S ,ac! to our cuners landing criteria. A 1.8% reduction applied to the variable bas. mortgage rate, currently 7.24%. Aldo assurance policy may be required. Exarnple: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both noor-smokers. applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over 025 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 March 2000 secured against • property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage Icayments net of tax of £205.62. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £134.295 calculated to Include valuation tee £155. This calculation Is based on the essurnptlon that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the ban. Maximum loen £150,000. The rate applies to loans up to and including 75% of the purchase price or valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate Is applicable for two years, after which the than currant rate will apply. When an applicant Is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually In the form of a Risk Charge. Rates correct at time of going to pros.

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

10

FOR QUALITY

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Nigel Bunter centre with Peatmoor children, from left rear, Mathew Hobbs, George Kurel, Molly Hall, Shannon Docherty. Front, Ellen Mootoo, Callum Jones. Cellular Operations staff, from left, Claudette Brokenshire, Robbie Clements, Sarah Bunn, Sara Bergeman

The company has struck up a Art help needed strong relationship with the school Textile artist Bailey Curtis will be in advance of moving into its fu- creating four large banners to turistic glass building next to hang in the Peatmoor School Peatmoor Lagoon during Christ- reception area with the help of mas week. people who live in Sparcells/ Presenting a cheque on 12 NoPeatmoor. vember at a school assembly, manTo take part in workshops on aging director Nigel Bunter said, 2, 7 and 16 December, call the "it is a privilege to be working so school on 887473 to book a space. closely with the school. The dona- You don't need experience. tion will help develop the grounds, but just as important is that fifty of Cafe of controversy our staff have offered to get involved where they are asked to." A proposal by Cellular Operations Peatmoor headteacher Terri Pea- to build and manage a cafe next to cock agreed. "There are many Peatmoor Lagoon is being considareas in which the company can ered by planners at Swindon Counhelp us, from wiring up comput- cil, alongside objections from local ers to helping run sports events residents and the community asand reading with children, as well sociation who believe it would as practical activities like planting spoil the character of the lake. Cellular Operations MD Nigel trees and taking part in our community arts project. This link-up Bunter said the company had ofis very exciting." fered to create a public amenity Mr Bunter invited the school to between the new company HQ and tour the Cellular Operations call the lagoon after discussion with centre early in the new year. council officers.

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ccen TU Presenting a Magical Christmas at The Brunel Shopping Centre, Swindon •

41

1

This year sees the biggest and best ever Grotto coming to Swindon. The Christmas Wonderland is open every day from Sunday 28th November until 4pm on Christmas Eve, so all children - big and small can visit Santa in this beautiful and imaginative Grotto.

R2

Situated on the Bridge Link near to House of Fraser's ladieswear entrance the Grotto will be open at the following times:

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off entrance to the Christmas Wonderland Grotto very Thursday between 3pm and 7pm at The Brunel Shopping Centre, Swindon. v onl y sand bctrxn 3pm and 7pm on 3rd. 9th. 16th and 23rd December. One coupon per child. ntal entrance fee £2.50, reduced entrance fee £2.00. This includes a visit around the Grotto and a present from Santa. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Coupon most be handed at cash til before payment is made.

12

NORTH SWINDON (including Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake, Taw Hill)

Successful week of art h

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Abbey Meads Primary School spent a fun week in November after half term exploring the environment through art, drama and music. Children went on a trip to lum and the students from Westonbirt Arboretum to see the Cirencester really set the children's colours in the trees and gather imagination alight. The improveleaves, nuts and sticks. They pro- ment in vocabulary and the motiduced collages and pictures which vation from the week has been are now displayed around the huge." school. As part of the week's activities, On Friday 8 November twenty children also worked on the deone National BTEC Diploma per- signs for playground markings and forming arts students from have created a shopping list of Cirencester College led four work- equipment. shops on a carnival theme. At the Now that the builders have end of the day children put on a moved off site, Mrs Brown comshort performance for parents. mented, "coming back to school Headteacher Marilyn Brown after half term was a bit like startsaid the week as wonderful. "Chil- ing the year again. Without the dren were able to concentrate on builders in the way, we can really the creative aspect of the curricu- concentrate on education."

HE ^

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The take over of one of the companies in the consortium responsible for developing Haydon 3, the next stage of the northern expansion, has caused a slight delay in starting the project. However the Haydon Development Company says there are no Ridge people danger major problems and contractors are ready to start work in early St Andrew's Ridge residents are spring on the northern orbital dual calling for measures to control carriageway, which will link speeding drivers and have threatGroundwell with West Swindon. ened to put up their own traffic calming. Centre for Taw Hill The problem is especially bad on Swindon Borough Council plan- Highdown Way where Connie ners are in active discussion with Croker lives. "The police say they developers about the design of are unable to do anything because Taw Hill village centre. the road has not been adopted. The The centre, eagerly awaited by first people moved here over four isolated residents, will comprise of years ago. I am really concerned shops, offices and residential out- for children playing in the street." lets, including a church, school, Residents claim land owners nursery, pharmacy and health cen- Bovis homes have not provided tre. It will be located to the south pillars wide enough to erect speed west of Haydon End Farm and signs and a dispute over boundaplanned in with the new road net- ries means they are still awaiting work. road calming after four years. Newts to get better pond PC Roger Guy said contractors A separate planning application have started work on traffic calmis being drawn up for a pond near ing and is due to be completed by the village centre site for a large Christmas. He reminds drivers that population of protected newts to the speed limit on all unadopted prevent them roaming on to the roads throughout the development new road system. is 30 mph.

HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

Link appeal nets results Footballers at Haydonleigh School were eagerly getting ready for their very first match in early October, in their first season as a competitive team. But as reported in last month's edition of The Link, mean thieves broke through fencing around the school's football pitch on Westfield Way and stole both goal nets. Three readers contacted us offering their help. Mr Titcombe from Haydon Wick had a spare set of nets in his loft and was prepared to donate them to the school. Teacher and team coach Chris Jones said the boys were delighted with the gift. "We've written to Mr Titcombe thanking him for his generosity. We can now return to competitive matches. Hopefully the opposition goal keeper will be picking the ball out of the net a lot." Chris Jones, with keen players, from left, Chris Alder, Luke Jones, Andy Aker, Jake Rundle, Craig Hewitt, Steven Robertson

13

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Wednesday 29th 10am - 7pm. Thursday 30th 10am - 8pm New Years Eve 9am - 2pm Closed 1st to 6th Janua ry 2000 Normal opening times from Friday 7th Janua ry

Meet the police at parish office Haydon Wick Parish Council is continuing the community drop in which commenced in November. Abbey Meads beat officer PC Roger Guy, right, will be on hand to advise if you have any worries, problems, or would like crime prevention advice. The next sessions will run at the Parish Offices, next to the Haydon Centre on: Wednesday 1 December 2pm-4pm 6.30pm-8.30pm. Tuesday 21 December

Burglars out shopping on you for Christmas It's that time of year when it is not mas and New Year break. Owners of burglar alarms are just householders looking for Christmas presents. Unfortunately asked to notify police of their burglars are out for easy pickings keyholders so that they can be and will take any opportunity to turned off quickly if you are away. Cycles given as presents can be spoil the festive season for you. Don't forget to lock windows postcoded by calling your comand doors, and make sure access munity policeman on 528111. Call this number to find out to the back of your house is secure. Do let a neighbour know if you about Neigbourhood Watch are going away over the Christ- Schemes.

Christmas shopping for Members hoe-down Senior Citizens Greenmeadow and Haydon Wick WI will celebrate Christmas with Haydon Wick Parish Council runs a supper and a barn dance. The a daily transport service for senior party, for members only, is on 13 citizens and disabled people within December at 7.30pm, in the Hay- their boundaries. This include visits to Safeway, don Centre. The WI were keepers of the Wilt- Tesco and Asda supermarkets and shire Women's Institute millen- shopping in Swindon town centre. nium banner and scroll for a week There are vacancies on all of the during mid-November before regular trips, which may be used passing it on to the Tootleabrook by people within the parish, inWI on 20 November. A photo- cluding much of Abbey Meads and graph will be published in the Janu- Taw Hill. If you would like tobook ary Link. a place, phone 722446.

West Swindon Centre 38c Gainsborough Avenue Swindon • Tel: 870462 Wootton Bassett • Tel: 853220

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14

LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER

Welfare reform and pensions Swindon North MP Michael Wills looks at the issues Recently the headlines have been up to an extra £26.40 a week for full of the battle between Lords people who have been disabled and Commons over the Govern- from birth. ment's Welfare Reform and PenBut we also need to ensure that sions Bill: ' Welfare Bill sabotaged by taxpayers' money is spent on those defiant peers', 'Lord wreak revenge who need it most. That is why we with defeat on pensions'. have proposed that for any new Yet, if the prospect of an all out claimants, Incapacity Benefit battle between the two chambers should be restricted for those with of Parliament has been too tempt- significant occupational pensions ing for Westminster journalists to to rely on: once such a pension resist, the facts have been largely reaches £220 a week or around £300 ignored. for a couple, then Incapacity BenThis Government was elected efit, always intended to be a benon a platform to reform a welfare efit to replace lost income, would system that few believe is working be stopped.

was first founded. Today there are more women workers, more flexible working patterns, more single-parent families and earlier retirement, for example.

I believe it is in everyone's interests to ensure that the welfare state is modernised to ensure that help and support reach those most in need.

Joy for Julia South Swindon MP, Julia Drown will be spending the next couple of months away from Westminster to spend time with her new baby. Julia and her partner Bill Child 8oz. Julia described the birth as recently announced the birth of miraculous. She said, "the bit I retheir second child. The baby, member most of the birth is there's named Harvey Dexter, was born a whole new person in the world". on 26 October and weighed 61b, Bill, a philosophy lecturer at

Wyvern Staff Agency ° ' Our client, Cellular Operations Limited have the following permanent vacancies:

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AT YOUR LIBRARY

Santa is visiting a library near you

Citizen Advocates;

It is nearly that time of year again and to celebrate Christmas in a big way Swindon libraries are planning special story-times for the very young, writes Robert Cotterell. There will be seasonal stories, songs and rhymes and Father Christmas will be calling in on: Thursday 9 December, 2.15pm Pinehurst Library Monday 13 December, 11am Central Library Friday 17 December, 10.30am West Swindon Library

Monday 20 December, 10.30am Old Town Library (admission is by free ticket available from 2 December due to space limits). For further information contact Robert Cotterill, Children's Librarian, Central Library, Regent Circus. Tel: 463238

Volunteers needed to listen to someone with a learning ' ' di ff iculty, respect their views and speak up for them to protect their rights. Training and support given

'

Swindon Advocacy Movement THE HEALTH HYDRO

New publications at the West Swindon library

Jon Cleary Dilemma When Sydney detective Scobie Malone apprehends a husband who disappeared after the murder of his wife four years earlier, it seems a cut and dried case. But somehow Scobie finds himself investigating the Crown Prosecutor. Iris Gower Beloved Traitor When fiery redhead Garnet Kingdom sets sails for southern Spain, her young heart yearns for adventure. No sooner had the ship left port when it is captured by a pirate crew and Garnet finds herself auctioned at the slave market at Tangiers.

Jeff Deaver The Devils Teardrop At 9am on 31 December a man gets onto the packed downwards escalator of a metro station and fires a silenced machine gun through a paper bag. He escapes unnoticed in the confusion. Then a note is delivered to the mayor of Washington DC demanding $20 million or the writer will instruct the gunman to strike again. Audrey Howard Angel Meadow Set in Manchester, this is the story of a courageous young girl who rises above terrible adversity to make a new life for herself and her family.

Fascinating village tales on sale An excellent Christmas gift is Lydiard Life 2000, a second book of memories about Lydiard Millicent, with a couple of stories about

15

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Curtains £25 * Tiebacks £15: Pelmets £25 • Austrian blinds £20 Roman blinds £25•! Accessories "£5 Hanging from £13 Prices exclude material Cost Free estimating and advie Design, making and compleie fitting service available Typical delivery 10 days

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Edited by Christine Saunders, the compilation of contributions from present and past villagers is a fascinating insight into local history and personal viewpoints. There are tales of how the home guard prepared to repulse Hitler's hoards, an account of 'Turk' Strange, a local male with brutal sexual behaviour, and the day a village resident met Julia Roberts when filming for the BBC.

Mary Mellish recalls as a child following Lord Bolingbroke into Woolworths to see what nobility bought when they went shopping. Ex-Square D managing director James S Vaughan, now retired home to the USA, describes his happy days living in Lydiard Manor during the 1960s, although he does not mention the ghost. But she does get a mention elsewhere.

The SALAD BOWL Tel: 01793 431991 have moved from Kennedy's Garden Centre

to 1A Purton Road, Moredon (opposite the Boundary House) Fresh Fruit, Vegetables, Cut Flowers

21st Century poets wanted

HOLLY WREATHS FOR CHRISTMAS

West Swindon based Ligden Poetry Society is running a competition backed by Burmah Castrol and Swindon Arts Foundation. Winning and recommended poems will be published in a Pulsar millennium poetry anthology which will be a record of how poets thought at the turn of the second millennium. On offer are three main prizes: 1st £75, 2nd £50, £3rd £25. There is a fee of £2 for the first poem and 50p for subsequent entries to cover printing costs. Poems of no more than 40 lines should be typed on A4 and submitted by 29 February 2000 to The Editor, Pulsar, 34 Lineacre, Grange Park, Swindon, SN5 6DA. Entry fee cheques/postal orders should be made payable to 'Ligden Poetry Society.'

Open: Monday to Saturday gam to 6pm And Sunday 5th, 12th & 19th December

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A Happy Christmas to all our customers Christine Saunders, right, with Barbara Moody, President of the Lydiards Village Society, front, Pat Russell, secretary, Graham Saunders, chairman

Also from America is a diary from soldier Jim Merrick based at Lydiard Park in 1945. Lydiard Life 2000 is available at £7.50 from Lydiard post office, the Wootton Bassett bookshop and The Bolingbroke Hotel, Hook.

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16 The Link Maqazine • December 1999

Hockey's the game for youngsters AI Evening gowns to hire including maternity and larger sizes Made to measure available

The junior section at Swindon Hockey Club has been reorganised to give children aged from seven to sixteen the chance to learn the game and play in a competitive league structure against other clubs. Training is on Saturday morn- section coordinator Rosie Law says equipment is provided and the ings on the Greendown School hockey is a low cost fun game for only cost is £1 per session. The astroturf with different age groups children of all abilities, and is a first two are free. taken by qualified coaches. Junior great alternative to football. All For more details, call Rosie Law, Ready to play, from left, Chris and Martin Chivers, Tom Towers, Francesca on 879254. Hillman, Elaine Parker, Sarah-Jane MacKay, Alex Owen

Badminton players wanted

To discuss your requirements, call Hilary on (01666) 510040

White Horse Badminton Club play at Wootton Bassett's Lime Kiln Centre on Wednesdays, 6pm to 8pm, and is looking for new members of any standard. League and social matches are played and social activities are organised during the year. For details, call Sally or Mike on 488859 or 848073.

10 minutes from Swindon. B Easy Parking.

County prospects

New netballers needed A keen group of netballers are looking for new players. Ferndale Netball Club trains at invited to join, though girls have Greendown School in Grange Park to be twelve and over to play in on Monday evening between league matches. To find out more, 8.30pm and 10pm and play in the turn up to a training session or call Swindon and District League. Sharon Fry on 873317 or Joy Blake Girls and women of all ages are on 872237 for details. Hands on the ball, front Carly Regan and Sharon Fry. Back, Rachel Grey, Julie Harris, Joy Blake, Lisa Brookes, Debbie Maloney

Year 9 Greendown student Daniel Thomas has been picked for the Wilt-"` £. a shire schools under 14s squad. He hopes to play in matches arranged against Bristol schools, Cornwall and Dorset county teams and Marlborough College.

Lose inches for Christmas with the SLIM-GEL BODYWRAP Also available:

non-surgical face-lift, manicures, pedicures,; waxing etc. Look great in December Call Natural Beauty on 852829

The Link Maaazine • December 1999 17

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Sponsors come forward to back local teams On the left we have Westlea Wanderers under 12s coached by Clive Copp and Kevin Hutchins who play in the Circencester League and are sponsored by Time Computers. On the right is the newly formed AFC Mannington who have picked up sponsorship from Garden of Eden conservatories. The team, coached by Trevor King, plays in the Swindon & District Under 15s Sunday league. Westlea Wanderers, rear from left, Phillip Hutchings, Farrell Copp, James Colbert, Martin Hall, Kristof Salewski, Tyron Newman, Luke McPherson, Jonathan Humphries, Richard Jones. Front, James Moore, Cal Shepherd, Shaun Rumming, Chris Garrett, Craig Roberts, Ryan Spackman, Jonathan Lee.

Party down with Club Base A new fitness routine aimed at teenagers - called Club Base - is holding a Christmas Party Masterclass on 20 December, 8pm, at the Link Centre. A live DJ mixes the latest house and techno music - loud - with lighting to create a 'club' ambience, whilst fitness instructor Ian Baker leads the aerobic session. "Club Base is the first of its kind," says Ian. "If you want to get fit in a new, motivating workout, then turn up to enjoy.: The cost on 20 December is £3 and includes free bottled water. • There will also be a Club Base session on Friday 3 December, 7.30pm, at the Haydon Centre.

Fitness winners Two lucky ladies will be using Swindon's newest and best equipped gym for free during the next twelve months. Jacqueline Kirwan from Grange which allows use to all Swindon Park and Bredon Easton from Council's fitness classes, pools and Woodhall Park both learnt of the gyms. Jacqueline has promised to Link Centre's new Active Lifestyle get fitter, now that she has an AcCentre via The Link and attended tive Lifestyle Centre pass. the open weekend in mid-OctoThe Link ALC is open daily and ber, and were entered into a draw. is well worth a visit by anybody A regular exerciser Bredon won looking for high quality equipment a Cross Training Pass worth £290 in a great fitness environment. Link Centre officer Dave Maine hands over the winning passes

AFC Mannington, rear from left, Craig Bailey, Ashley Chapman, Danny Gough, Mark Westbrook, Liam Moody, Tom Steptoe. Front, John Lenik, Paul Collict, Oliver Wilson, Phillip Sharpe, Ashley Cresswell, Carl Burkitt, Jordan King

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18

The Link Magazine • December 1999

GARDENERS LINK

GET YOUR Christmas greetings from GARDEN FIT all your local gardening services and suppliers ENTERPRISE WORKS

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CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY

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Learn about the work of TWIGS and meet the staff and volunteers

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The Link Magazine • December 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

TWIGS Christmas invitation Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon is holding an open day on 18 December where you can plant a tree, make a Christmas star in a workshop and purchase a range of craft items, cards and houseplants.

19

Only the best will do at Christmas For a wide selection of top grade Christmas trees, come to Stone Lane Garden Centre All our trees are bushy and we stock many sizes from 3ft. to 12ft!

TWIGS staff and clients in a newly erected polytunnel greenhouse, from left, Alan Holland, June Stewart, Colin Dickinson, Jasmine Price, Jackie Gardo, Neil Daglish

From 10.30am to 3pm, there is a support worker. Volunteers with chance to find out about TWIGS gardening and woodwork skills which reopened in September, who are sensitive to the needs of having moved to a new building at the client group are always needed. "There's more to TWIGS than Moredon Gardens in Cheney digging - there's a great commuManor. The voluntary organisation pro- nity spirit here," said project vides rehabilitation opportunities worker Alan Holland. "Everyone through horticulture and craft ac- is treated as a person not an illtivities for people who are experi- ness." Hot drinks and mince pies will encing emotional distress or mental ill health. be served on 18 December. People with mental health needs To find more about TWIGS, and have to be referred to the project to offer your services as a volunby a social worker or community teer, ca ll (01793) 523294.

Mark the Millennium by planting a tree The Great Western Community Forest team and the Woodland Trust are organising a big tree plant to launch the 21st Century on Sunday 5 December, 10.30am to 3.30pm at the Large Pry, near Purton. This will be a fun family day out where you can dedicate a tree and contribute an item to a time capsule to be buried on site. You don't need experience, the trees are free and experts will be on hand with advice. All you need is wellies and a spade. There will be live music, face painting, children's workshops Peat less at Peatmoor Children at Peatmoor School spent an afternoon planting tree seeds which they will grow at home and plant in the grounds next year. Neil Hutton and Jennifer Monahan from the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers Trees of Time and Place project gave advice and stressed the importance of using peat free compost to reduce environmental damage. Jennifer and Neil with, left Chloe Coates, Michael Bowles and Darren DeFreitas and Lucy Roze

and exhibitions about the community forest, the Woodland Trust and the work of local environmental groups. To get there follow the signs to Purton, or use the free park and ride from Hillmead Industrial Estate on Mead Way, West Swindon. Buses will run from 9.30am.

Many varieties of tree available to suit individual preferences.

Bigger range of decorations on display this year HTA Gift Tokens available. Ideal presents for keen gardeners. Or, view the range of gifts, from houseplants to propagators, seasonal shrubs and garden tools.

Christmas presents for your pets! We have lots of tasty gifts for your favourite animal.

Real Wreaths, Holly and Mistletoe * Open 7 days a week * Plenty of free parking * Coffee Shop

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The Link Magazine • December 1999

Bra wearers wanted for marathon walk When The Link called Eunice Salmon in early September to ask what she was doing about Breast Cancer Awareness Week in October, she had nothing planned. But within the day she had decided to hold a fundraising breakfast in aid of Breakthrough Cancer research.

DIRECT

I NJURED?

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60K ujKe ir0 a41 K4 GOS(,^

GP ' NGE FARM NURSED IES Your local garden centre for o'

CHRISTMAS TREES• .r HUGE RANGE OF GARDENING GIFTS National Garden Gift Tokens

PEN DAILY at Haydon End Lane, Haydon Wick

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As a result over £600 was raised on 21 October from the 65 people, who visited Eunice's house in Nine Elms and staff at Brook Field School who had a break-time delivery. Now Eunice is appealing to women to join her on the annual Wonderbra walk through London, the night before the marathon next April. She did the walk this year with colleague Emma Neilson, and 600 other women wearing Wonderbras and space blankets and over £100,000 was raised. Keen to do the walk again, but this time with other women from Swindon, Eunice is willing to coordinate transport and also organise group training in the new year. "You don't have to bare all, you can walk in a T shirt," said Eunice. "Over 1,000 women a month die of breast cancer in Britain. The walk is a great way of getting fit beforehand, taking charge of your own health, and helping those who may contract breast cancer." To join the Swindon women's Wonderbra walkers group, call Eunice on 871601. She is also delighted that the 5km Race for Life to raise money for research into women's cancers

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Eunice serves up to the Mayor of Swindon coun Joy Brunt

is taking place at Lydiard Park on 14 May and would encourage

women to take part. For details, call 08705 134314.

Cancer coffee morning Part-time NVQ 2 Administration students at Swindon College, Regent Circus are holding a coffee morning on 10 December, 10am to 12 noon, in aid of breast cancer research.

All are invited to drop in. For details, call Jane Pitts-Drake on 872805.

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from 524.95 Say congratulations in a big way by hiring a 6 toot UPVC Giant Card for your special occasion placed in your ard en at da wn fT Boy

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Win a ticket to see Amy from Neighbours Snow White opens at the Wyvern Theatre on 17 December for another action packed season of fun and laughter for all ages. This year's star is Jacinta Stapleton, Amy Greenwood from Neighbours, who is leaving the sunny Aussie summer to spend Christmas and New Year in chilly Britain. This is her first trip here and also her first pantomime. So give her a friendly Swindon welcome by visiting the Wyvern box office. Also appearing will be Mike McCabe from The Comedians and Paul Laidlaw as the evil queen. BBC Wiltshire Sound's Sandy Martin will be The Henchman and once again the Tanwood Dancers will be putting on a terrific show. To win a family ticket for two adults and two children worth £40 for Friday 7 January, just tell us what season it is now in Australia. Send your answer to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 13 December.

Make a trip to Swindon's own '1900 House' One the Autumn's most popular TV documentaries, Channel 4's 'The 1900 House, has just ended. In it a 1999 family spent three months experiencing how their Victorian ancestors would have lived.

I

But Swindon has had its own 1900 House' foralmost 20 years in the heart of Brunet's Railway Village, complete with guide dressed in period costume. Situated next to the now closed railway museum, the cottage recreates life at the turn of the century with gas lighting and period furniture. Unlike the TV house, the cottage does not boast the pleasures of inside plumbing. The tin bath hangs on the wall, ready for the weekly bath in front of the kitchen range. Museum assistant Marion Flanagan, dressed in 1900 style

Win a trip back in time Another popular r set along a time line, Channel 4 series is _ helping you put the the award winning last two millennia in Time Team. --- - - — --perspective, and fillFollowing the ing in the factual de-Sunday Times tails in Time Team's i ini mitableandaccesbestseller Behind the Scenes at Time ---sible style. Team, a second Now you can win _ book will be pubone of two beautifully photographed and illi shed in December - The Ultimate Time lustrated copies pros? Team, an alternavided by Channel 4 tive history of Britain. Books. Containing five fascinating photo All you have to do is tell us how stories covered in the last series - many Time Team digs have taken from Roman mosaics to WW II place. Spitfires - it also contains descripSend your answer to The Link, tions of 50 Time Team digs to date. Papermakers House, Westlea, Alongside these is the Time Swindon SN5 7BD by 13 DecemTeam's complete history of Britain ber

It is open from Monday to Friday 1 Oam to 1 pm, 2pm to 5pm, Saturdays 10am to 5pm and Sundays 2pm to 5pm.

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DISCOUNT FRAMING Discount Framing Centre Unit 49A BSS House Cheney Manor Est. Swindon Tel/Fax: 0 793 432592 y i

SAVE £'S s° "\ ij Frames made to order also available from stock Picture/photo frames. Prints & mirrors Trade enquiries welcome 10% discount with this advert

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22

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Senior Citizens £55 CALL .,

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There's going to be a mega party down at Swindon's County Ground on 31 December, and you and the family could be there. It is going to be an all inclusive event with music and entertainment for all ages, including a special children's area with entertainers, organised games, extra supervision and a large video screen. Wallets can be left behind because ticket prices include a mouth watering buffet and also selected beers, wines and soft drinks. And to welcome the new century, a monster fireworks spectacu

Superbowl super night

TICKET PRICES INCLUDE • HOT BUFFET • SELECTED BEERS • WINES • SOFT DRINKS • DISCO • ENTERTAINMENT • FAMILY SECTION • FIREWORKS SP

Adults £60 1 0 - 15 years £18 Under 10 years £8

Win a ticket to the big millennium party

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ICKETHOTLINEON

FREEERItLONE 0800 028 1 491 , •.,

The Swindon Superbowl is holding a big family party on 31 December. Bookalaneforl2adultsandtwelve children can go free. The total price is £900. For this you get unlimited drinks, unlimited buffet, exclusive use of a bowling lane, unlimited use of selected amusement games. childrens entertainment. And a champagne breakfast to welcome the first day of the rest of your life. Drop into the Superbowl to book a lane or telephone 886886 for details .

lar is planned. Tickets are selling fast. Book now to avoid disappointment. But you might want to wait and see if you're a winner. We have a family ticket to the big event worth over£130to give away. Itisfortwo adults and two under 10s (they can be swopped to include under 15s). All you have to do is tell us where the big party is being held. Entries should sent in by 13 December to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD.

Pep up your social life Feeling fed up with the same old

routine, want to meet new people and try something different? Swindon IVC is a spo rts and social club for professional people over 21 which organises a programme of varied and interesting activities. Typical events include meals out, pa rties, walks, pub/cinema/theatre evenings, bike rides and weekends away. There are also badminton, tennis and table tennis sessions. The club has a lively and relaxed atmosphere and welcomes newcomers. To find out more call 5141 90.

SHOPPING IN OLD TOWN THIS CHRISTMAS

23

Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves An old fashioned bookshop for customers who like things the way they used to be with a standard of service for toda y. BOOK TOKENS MAKE PERFECT GIFTS

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30 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon • Tel: (01793) 527364

A New Look for the New Millennium Top designer labels. Ladies fashions & accessories

JUVALS 26 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 513196

Are you going to a winter wedding? Perhaps you just need a hat to keep away the winter weather F

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Throughout December until Sunday 5 December Sunday 9 January Music Abba Gold. Wyvern, Exhibition Impact of Victorian 7.30pm. From £10.50 Transpo rt . National Monuments Family Christmas Hedgelaying Record Centre, Wednesday to with the Wilts Wildlife Trust. Avis Sunday 11am-5pm Meadows, minibus pickup from Swindon Railway Station at Tuesday 9 November to Sunday 5 December 9.45am. To book call 524940 Exhibition Photography by Family Millennium Tree Plant. Gordon Dickinson. Wyvern Plant a tree and enjoy live music, Thursday 30 November to face painting, street pe rf ormers. Sunday 19 December Large P ry, Nr Pu rt on. Park and Exhibition Myth, Steve Valentine Ride at Hillmead Industrial Estate, displays his paintings combining every 20mins from 9.30am Greek mythology and modern Swindon Ramblers 10 mile walk style. Arts Centre visiting Ashley, Crudwell, Wednesday 1 December Chedglow. Meet 9am Civic OfMusic Freak Out. Wyvern, fices, Euclid Street. Call 610633 7.30pm. From £9.50 for details

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Wednesday 1 December to Friday 24 December Students from Lackham College will festoon the state rooms at Lydiard House in a display of traditional greenery to recreate the atmosphere of a Victorian country house Christmas. Museum assistants Mary Golding and Janet Porter will be on hand to serve coffee and mince pies. Normal admission charge: adults £1.20, juniors 60p Thursday 2 December Music Think Floyd. Wyvern, 7.30pm. From £8.50 Friday 3 December Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta. Wyvern, 7.30pm. From £10.50 Saturday 4 December Music The Thamesdown Ladies Choir. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £6.50 Training The Actor and the Voice, led by Barbara Houseman. A course for all budding thespians. Arts Centre. £16. Details on

Sundays 5 & 12 Dec, Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 December Family Swindon & Cricklade Railway: Santa Specials. Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, 1 Oam-5pm. Details on 771615 Monday 6 December Entertainment Ultimate Fantasy. A hen party night of music, muscle and mayhem. Wyvern,

614864

7.45pm. £12 Tuesday 7 December Music The Blues Band. 7.30pm. £14.50

Training Millennium Mosaics. Arts Centre, 10am-ipm. £10. Book on 614837 Family Christmas at Lydiard. Craft demonstrations with traditional decorations. Lydiard House, 1Oam-4pm. Adult £1.20, Child 60p Children Going Crackers, craft event for 5-11 year olds. Lydiard House, 2-4pm. £2, tickets: 770401 Saturday 4 December to Thursday 23 December Family Father Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury. Mon-Thu'rs: 11am-4pm, Fri, Sat & Sun: 11 am-7pm. £2.

Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy Club presents Brendon Riley and Bob Rouse. Mackenzie's, Wood Street, 8.30pm. £5. Call 430111 to reserve a table Wednesday 8 December Music The Glenn Miller Orchestra Show. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50 Talk & guided walk around our galaxy. Lydiard Park, 7pm - 9pm. Adults £1.50, juniors 50p. Book on 771419, suitable for wheelchair users wear warm clothes, Thursday 9 December Comedy Phill Jupitus Ends Tour in Swindon. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £11

Wyvern,

December overview

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Music Kentwood Christmas Cracker. Wyvern Theatre, 5pm and 8pm. £7.50. Thursday 16 December to Saturday 18 December Family The Hobbit, presented by Sixth Sense Youth Theatre. Arts Centre, 16th-17th: 7.30pm, 18th: 2pm and 7.30pm. £4.50 Thursday 16 December to Monday 20 December Ice Show Aladdin and the Forty Thieves. Link Centre, 2pm & 7pm. £5 Friday 17 December to Saturday 15 January Pantomime Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs. Starring Neighbours' Amy Greenwood. Wyvern, various pe rf ormance times. £13. Panto booking line 0870 606 3572 Saturday 18 December Christmas activities at Workshop Decorated Candle Holders. Arts Centre, 1 Oam-1 pm Lower Shaw Farm £6. Book on 614837 Sunday 19 December Swindon Ramblers 10.5 mile walk visiting Bowood House, Sandy lane, Bowden Hill. Meet 9am Civic Offices, Euclid Street. Call 610633 for details Tuesday 28 December Sat 4 December,10.30am-4pm Swindon Ramblers 8 mile walk Christmas Crafts Day visiting Oare Hill, Gopher Wood. A chance to make unusual deco- Meet 1Oam Knap Hill. Call 610633 rations and presents. Lunch in- for details cluded. Adult £20, child £12 Tuesday 7 & Wednesday 8 December, 10am - 12.15pm [ ^_l Children's workshop mornings for children with their adults. Sea- Showing at the Arts Cen tr e, 7.45pm sonal farm explore and craft activi- Thursday 2 December and ties. £5 per family. Friday 3 December Sunday 12 December, 7pm The Debt Collector (18) Carols by Candlelight in the barn, Billy Connolly stars in this dark warm fire, roast chestnuts, mulled thriller about a vicious ex-con and wine and mince pies, sing or listen. the angry copper who hounds him. £2, wear warm clothes, b ri ng a torch. £3.50 Booking is essential for the crafts Wednesday 22 December day and children's workshops. Shall We Dance (cert tbc) Write to Lower Shaw Farm, Old A comedy romance set in 1996 Shaw Lane, Swindon or call Japan, examines the graceful ap771080 peal of ballroom dance and a reLower Shaw Farm Spring pro- lease from the regimentation of gramme soon available, call for Japanese life. Presented by Swindon Film Society. (Tel: 720051) your copy

Thursday 9 December to Saturday 11 December Drama Grego ry 's Girl, presented by the Old Town Theatre Company. A rt s Centre, 7.30pm. £5. Friday 10 December and Saturday 11 December Music Rocking to the Millennium. Wyvern, 10th: 7.30pm, 11th: 2.30pm and 7.30pm. £6.50 Saturday 11 December Tour National Monuments Record Centre Tour. The Galle ry , Great Western Village, 2.15pm. Free Sunday 12 December Swindon Ramblers 10 miles walk in Brecon Beacons. Meet 8am Freshbrook Village Centre. Call 610633 for details

III I ill

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The Blues Band 20th Anniversa ry tour comes to the Wyvern on Tuesday 7 December, featuring from left, Rob Townsend, Dave Kelly, Ga ry Fletcher, Paul Jones, Tom McGuinness

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High energy ceilidh at The Dance House

Concert in aid of the Motor Money for millennium street parties Neurone Disease Association Swindon Council is offering grants of up to £150 to community organisations

Saturday 18 December, 8pm The Woodpecker Band Ellendune Centre, Wroughton £6/ £4, family tickets available Advance booking on 641107

featuring David Hughes (suppo rt to interested in organising a street party or similar event to celebrate the Be rt Jansch, Pentangle and Fairpo rt beginning of the 21st Century. Priority will be given to or no resources, orthose least likely Convention) & Gerry Conway (Jethro Tull, Cat Stevens, Richard applications from groups with little to attract funds from other sources, or through fundraising efforts. Thompson & Fairport Convention) Council leader Sue Bates said Friday 7 Janua ry Help needed for she hoped that events which are Arts Centre, Old Town shopping night open to as many members of the Tickets £7.50/E6.50 Organised by Denis Bird from Grange A special evening for people with community as can be practically Park in memo ry of his late wife Linda. disabilities and residents of homes and safely accommodated will be and sheltered accommodation organised. "We are encouraging place in Swindon centre on groups to suggest creative ways of Santa tours with the Lions takes Thursday2 December, from 5.30pm. celebrating the millennium, such as West Swindon Lions Club will be Wheelchair pushers and ti me capsules, decorated cakes and fundraising during December with shopping helpers are needed. To pe rf ormances by local artists." their Father Christmas float For application details, contact offer assistance call Shopmobility On Saturdays 11 December and on 512621. Lorraine Cox on 466520. 18 December, 9.30am to 5pm, the float will be at West Swindon Centre Theywill be in other parts of West Swindon from 6.15pm to 8pm on: The Prinnels Tuesday 9th Forget Furby's, trounce the Teletubies, it's time to be seen with a Thursday 11th Middleleaze Bugwomp - much more than just a cuddly toy, and much bigger than a Tuesday 14th Peatmoor Beanie babe. Thursday 16th Shaw If you are stuck for Christmas Tuesday 21st Sparcells present ideas this a great alternative to expensive hi-tec gadgets. Bugwomps are 18 inch long Professional handpuppets, which can be made Hairdressing to wriggle like worms and screw up in your own home their faces. According to Nick Steele, their Cuts from £3.50 creator, they originate in the AmaFor appointments, call zon rain forests and were brought Tracey on 878217 here accidentally by botanists who transported theireggs on the leaves of plants. Nick has had the idea in his head Play the So give something which will get since he was a teenager and two Piano the kids using their imaginations years ago he decided to do someand improving their language skills. thing about it. Following positive Learn to Sing l Win a Bugwomp reaction at trade shows over the Phone Swindon 695235 summer, Nick aims to sell 3,000 by You can be the proud owner of a for further information Christmas from a stall in Regent silk Bugwomp in time for Christmas. All you have to do is tell us Street. If successful he will have raised where Bugwomps came from. enough money to help get them Send your answers to The Link, produced commercially to sell Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon by 15 December. throughout the country.

Music at St Mary's Purton Swindon Chamber Choir Saturday 11 December, 7.30pm

0 Magnum Mysterium A programme of Christmas pieces including baroque music, modern and favourite carols Tickets: £5, £4, family £15 on the door or call 770525

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency Let us Spring Clean your home, ready for the New Year Phone Jill or Sue on 861112

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C

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THE

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SPECIALISTS IN FIRES & FIREPLACES Visit our extended showrooms at: Rodbourne Rd, Swindon. Tel: (01793) 612288 Closed on

Cuddle a Bugwomp for Christmas

Vet rebuilds and relaunches Thameswood Veterinary Clinic in Purton Road has been completely rebuilt over the last few months, but has continued in business without losing a day's service to their patients. It is now establised in the larger premises, offering facilities for examination, operation and over night care. It's a long way from the former wooden shop that served workers at the old power station where Pembroke Park is now, in which Nicholas and Giovanna Hartley, right first opened 12 years ago. "Everybody has been so cooperative whilst work has been going on. We'd like to thank customers and the builders for their understanding," said Mrs Hartley. The practice specialises in dermatological conditions and will be offering further specialisms in due course.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

WHY STRUGGLE WITH HEAVY CANS & BULKY BAGS? LET IE1JHt DO THE WORK?

conw Microchipping for cats and dogs The RSPCA is holding a dog and cat micro-chipping implant session at Toothill Community Centre on Saturday 4 December, 10am - 2pm. The cost is only £10 (as opposed to the normal £25 charge)

27

The Link Magazine • December 1999

Table Top Sale

Toothill Community Centre Saturday 4 December, 10am - 12noon. in aid of the RSPCA

Top pet food delivered free to your door 3 Full Range of Complete Dog Food 3 Complete Cat Foods 3 Cat Litter 3 Rabbit & Bird Food 3 Supplies for all Small Animals 3 D ry Mixers 3 Puppy Food and much more available at competitive prices', For information and free sample, contact your local agent: Wendy & Roy Rudkin. Tel: 01793 873021

Opening 1st December The Cats Whiskers Country Ca tt ery Ivy House Farm, Gri tt enham Nr Wootton Basse tt Luxury for your cat and peace of mind for you. Cuddle duties daily. Purposefully and professionally built to conform to the latest environmental health requirements. Comfort, hygiene and safety of prime importance. Spacious, heated, bright and airy chalets. All runs protected from the elements. Single, double and family units available. Open all year, 9am . 5pm For details, call Mrs Briant 01666 510750

PETS AT HOME Sheila Mitchell would like to wish all her customers a Happy Christmas and a successful New Year

Do you know that there is a pet food manufacturer that delivers pet food direct to your door?

Swindon 873062

Do you know that there is a pet food manufacturer that supplies a food that states the full ingredients plus offering nutritional and behavioural advice, backed with veterina ry suppo rt ?

, ^E?

•

Do you know that there is a pet food manufacturer that supplies a microchipping se rv ice in the comfo rt of your own home?

•

Do you know that there is a pet food manufacturer that offers a Complete Pet Care Se rv ice with treats, insurance and health care?

VETERINARY SURGEONS s Simon Gower & Associates B.V.Sc., M.R.C.V.S.

Q '^' 77 High Street, Purton Bath Road, Cricklade

• ROtf •

Tel: 751698 Tel: 771869 Please telephone for consulting hour • All consultations by appointment

Then Contact Alison Smith on 01793 882311 or

X Q

Do you know whereto find OSCAR PET FOODS?

•

7

I

•

Do you know that the Oscar home delivery service

is FREE?

freephone helpline

0500 855 267 to find your nearest Nutritional Advisor

COMPLETE PET CARE

PET FOOD DELIVERY

SERVICE

SERVICE

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: TELEPHONE 771869

•

' s°^

Ilmeswood

0 8 0, Small Animal Hospital Helping you care more for your pet We have just finished the development of the most modem small animal hospital in Swindon with state-of-the-art veterinary facilities for our clients and their pets

^,vetei.. SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE Centre, Ramleaze Drive ^13 Shaw Village West Swindon SN5 9PY

^C^ntP^

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS • Stefania Glowka DVM MRCVS Michelle Lindsay BVM&S MRCVS

Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm 9.00am - 4.00pm Saturday

Situated in North West Swindon, with ample parking, we continue to provide high quality surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring, friendly and professional environment.

Tel. (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

We welcome enquiries in writing to the practice manager, or ring for an appointment to register your pet.

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

THE DROVE

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery For all your pets needs when healthy or ill Unit 5 Abbeymeads Village Centre Elstree Way Abbeymeads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 2pm - 4pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 11am -12.3opm, 2pm - 4pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 2 - 4pm

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

28

The Link Magazine • December 1999

Please think safety in winter weather, at Christmas and for New Year parties Winter is upon us now and some extra precautions need to be taken to keep us safe, writes Firefighter Ian Jury. During the last month Westlea of all parties and a never to be Fire Station attended 25 road traf- forgotten experience. If organisfic accidents, many of them seri- ing street events, please bear in ous. Please remember to take ex- mind a couple of safety points. If tra care when driving in poor you are using fireworks, rememweather conditions. Make sure ber the firework code and that alyour vehicle is fully prepared for cohol and fireworks don't mix. winter by taking advantage of the All the emergency services will free winter check-up offered by be giving full cover over the New many garages. Year period, with extra staff on The festive season is just around duty. We will still require access the corner and we are all thinking in case of emergencies, so please about bringing out the decorations leave room when parking your once again. Please make sure that vehicles in the street or holding any electrical ones are in good parties in your close. working order. Especially check All the firefighters at Westlea the Christmas lights for bare wires, would like to thank everyone who blown bulbs and incorrect fuses. has supported us since the station If you are buying new lights, was built back in 1989. We also make sure they have the British wish you all a merry Christmas kite mark and BS number on them. and a happy and safe start to the Candles do make attractive deco- new century. rations but they can also lead to devastating fires. Make sure they are placed in sturdy holders away from curtains and out of reach of children. Decorations near canCentre on Friday 17 Decefnt dles and fireplaces should be fire in aid of the Mammotome retardant. appeal for the Swindon The beginning of the new MilBreast Cancer Unit lennium promises to be the party

DUNCAN CAR SPARES COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH

PARTS REMOVED BY OUR OWN PERSONNEL

vM

DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE 'hoax 4ocal e ctaC Cfo.wjca uy Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

Cars • Vans • Lutons • Tail-lifts 272 Ermin Street Stra tt on St. Margaret, Swindon

Tel: 822193 FREE PARKING Open Daily 8.30am - 5.30pm

Sundays 8.30am - 9.30a'

A new kind of volunteering offers a different experience Millennium Volunteers team member Giles Aspinall writes

The MV team with Swindon South MP at the project launch in early October. From left, Sarah Codd of Swindon Volunteers, Simon Smith, operations manager, Giles Aspinall, programming officer, Helen Smithers, youth work coordinator

Last month saw the launch of out having to worry about fundMillennium Volunteers, a national ing, safety or their equipment. scheme that could change the face Millennium Volunteers is based of the voluntary sector. Swindon on the principal that volunteers and North Wiltshire are among can expect something in return for the first areas to benefit. their efforts; a volunteer will leave Run from the centre of Swin- the programme not only secure in don, the local Millennium Volun- the knowledge of a job well done, teers team are armed with Gov- but also with their ambitions met ernment money and have already and a list of new skills. started an active volunteer proIf you are between the ages of 16 gramme - a programme which is and 24, regardless of your state of different from any other. employment, your amount of free Millennium Volunteers looks at time, criminal record, transport voluntary work from a unique per- needs etc., Millennium Volunteers spective: volunteers are not asked has something for you. The team to adapt their skills to other peo- can help you achieve a wide variple's projects, they are encouraged ety of goals and in return for work to start schemes of their own. Fur- to benefit your own community, thermore the Millennium VolunMillennium Volunteers offers teers team finds placements for references, certificates and awards; people which are designed to en- a quality experience with the pahance their skills and to provide perwork to back it up. high quality training. For more information call 430700 Volunteers' costs are met, equip- or visit the office at 1 John Street, ment supplied and insurance is Swindon. It will change the way covered so that participants are you think about volunteering, and free to carry out their work with- it just may change your life.

Driver awarded M.O.T.

Cars, Motorcycles, Class 7

77 01793 428430 More than just your local bus company

Thamesdown /^iles 6 tte, b wiadon '

Corporation Street, Swindon SN1 1 DS

Betty with passenger Pat Waggott from Toothill

The efforts of Thamesdown DialA-Ride volunteer driver Betty Gifford were recognised at the annual Whitbread In The Community Awards presentation evening on 1 November. Betty started driving in a voluntary capacity in 1992 and is well known to the elderly and people with disabilities who use a Dial-ARide taxi car as a life-line to get ou t and about, to do their shopping or visit friends and family. She drives four days a week, arriving at9am and leaving at 5pm. She has been known to collect passengers at Sam to take them to an airport on route to their holiday.

The Link Magazine • December 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

29

Fifth birthday for food voucher project A West Swindon based charity, which provides food vouchers for the homeless, is celebrating its fifth anniversary and is appealing for help to spread its work. Hotplates offers the better off a Charities, churches and indi- ticipating food outlets for a meal. Hotplates began in Swindon in Charity manager David Edge- way of helping the homeless or 1994 and is now established in viduals can purchase vouchers at London and Bristol, as well as In- £2 each which are given to those in cumbe from Grange Park said the those in personal difficulty across need who can redeem them at par- success of the scheme is based on the town by purchasing food dia and Zambia. the fact that it ensures that dona- vouchers which are distributed by tions are used to feed the hungry. partner agencies. Lump sum do"Since it began Hotplates has pro- nations to the Hotplates Trust are vided many thousands of meals in most welcome. Two West Swindon women are training to take part in an all woman Swindon, thanks to sponsorship If you run a takeaway where charity cycle ride in the Middle East next Spring and are looking for from Allied Dunbar and Burmah vouchers can be spent, please regsponsors to raise money for the Queen Charlotte's Appeal. Castrol. The West Swindon Fam- ister as a Hotplates Store. For more information on HotLouise Strickland from Toothill ily Project, The Filling Station and and Christine Todman from Swindon Family Church have all plates, call David Edgecumbe on 881611. Peatmoor will spend eight days in distributed the vouchers." mid-March with over 100 other women mountain biking from Israel to Egypt via Jordan. Suzanne King from Shaw is also taking part. Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying Each has made a commitment to M.o.T. Repairs and Welding raise a minimum of £2,000 in sponsorship towards a new maternity Free Estimates and gynaecology hospital at HamUnit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon mersmith to create a centre of exTr 0860 80806 $ 0 1793 421 125 cellence, for research and treatment of women and babies. Louise and Christine are busily organising car boot and cake sales and holding raffles, and are ap* Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work pealing to readers to make a cash contribution to their efforts. To * MoTs arranged (no r e-test fee) help or to find out more about the For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience Women for Women Three CounChristine Todman and Louise (No VAT to pay) tries Challenge, call Louise on Strickland, training to do their bit CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350 for specialist women's hospital care 488468 or Christine on 873115.

Charity ride takes in three countries

GARY WILKINSON

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS

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A

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The Link Magazine • December 1999

30

Aussie surfers visit Swindon via we

www.swinddnlink.com

you yourelax

1et

''O \U The new name in residential property management and lettings

Last month we reported the visit by two Australian teachers to Tregoze School and how we were going

to help Swindon teacher Karen Winterburn show off her school in early November via the Internet, when she made a return visit to the primary schools in the Newcastle area of New South Wales. At swindonlink.com we created a special 'mini-site' with photographs of Karen's class at Tregoze and aerial shots of the school which gave the children she met the chance to 'visit Swindon. On the site we have posted e-mails from her about her impressions of schools in Australia and some short

Home Choice is a market leader in Swindon with over 100 rental properties under management, from small studio apartments to executive houses. Our dedication to providing the best possible service to our clients is backed by a link to the Private Business Ombudsman and the UK Association of Letting Agents.

contributions from local children with their photographs. Karen was delighted with the opportunity to show off Tregoze using the latest technology. "The site was absolutely brilliant. It gave the Australian children the chance to surf to Swindon and find out more about the town and Tregoze G'day mates. Karen on top of the famous Sydney harbour bridge

We offer our tenants and landlords peace of mind knowing that we will look after any problems they may have as quickly and skilfully as possible. We take on as much (or as little) responsibility as the landlord wants - from drawing up tenancy agreements to rent collection, right through to full management. For further information, please contact Sue Gidney on 01793 431 Wearing a hat is a fashion statement in the hot Aussie sun. Karin with local youngsters by a gum tree

The management and staff of the

Lc

HINE

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MEA L

wish all their customers a Merry Christmas £t a Very Happy New Year 00

Tel: 01793 849388 116 High Street, Wootton Bassett

• •

Open 6 days a week: 5.00pm - 11.30pm Closed on Mondays Closed 25/26/27 December. Back to normal 28 December OPEN NEW YEARS DAY 2000

School, and they were really excited about seeing themselves on the Internet. Parents of children in my classes have told me that they have been impressed by how the web is being used to communicate across the world." As a result of the visit four classes at Tregoze have set up 'e-pals' links with youngsters at Charlstown East primary school, though keeping them up might be difficult because the school year in Australia ends in December. Karen visited four schools, where she talked to children, observed classes and discussed educational ideas with Australian teachers. One of the highlights was an Aboriginal Art Day at one school where aboriginal artists ran workshops in boomerang painting, dance and singing. She passed on her learning at a similar day at Tregoze on 18 November.

"I was made very welcome in all the schools I visited. The children loved my accent and kept me talking endlessly. They are very aware of Britain because of television programmes and the football shown in Australia. But I had to be very diplomatic about the referendum on whether to keep the monarchy. "The schools are very impressive. Each has its own library with a dedicated librarian, and all have computer suites which are networked together and maintained by technicians. The thing that sticks in my mind is that the children are so similar in their learning, outlook and behaviour."

Tfje ZGrabitionat ,*cfjoor of aeiki jeoiin Learn this ancient healing art Reiki is safe, completely natural and highly effective complementary therapy to all other forms of health care. Reiki is not a religion or a belief system An important difference between Reiki and other energy therapies is that once activated in your hands, you have it for life and can treat yourself.

VACANCY Mac Person wanted The Link is looking for a Macintosh friendly designer with experience in Pagemaker and Photoshop. If you're looking for a part time position - about 15 hours a month at first - send us a CV. Address on page 3.

Courses available at all levels, nail informal groups, individual attention, comprehensive manual, certificated. After course guidance and support. Reiki Association Master

F. J. Taylor, (01793) 848940 or 07775 932984 (mobile) Reiki treatments available £10 per half-holm or £20 per fill hour

The Link Magazine • December 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Discover co

^l /I

00" Old'7 tfLi

d%f'i6't/ffas'

For the finest

in Cantonese, Sichuan, 7 `. Peking and \^ South East "Asian Cuisine

Wine and Dine th Christmas and New Year

The new quality restaurant with affordable prices

Party time is upon us. It's time to celebrate with a loved one, at a family gathering, or a night out with friends or colleagues. On this page you'll find some excellent restaurants to visit. Connie's in Old Town and the Chinghai on Faringdon Road offer the exotic tastes of the Far East at tremendous value. Brookhouse Farm in West Swindon prepares an excellent traditional Christmas lunch and evening meal, in addition to the well known Artist's Fayre menu. And out of town, The Crown at Lechlade is a highly regarded restaurant to visit. Wherever you go, have a great time and drive safely.

Alan & Valerie Watkins invite you to join them at

Good selection of bar snacks an restaurant food available all day

Menu available on request

Live music on Sunday evening

Fully Licensed

Christmas menu available

53 Devizes Road Swindon Tel: (01793) 52 1515

CHINESE MALAYSIAN • THAI

171 - 173 Faringdon Road Swindon Tel: 01793 616880

OW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS Enjoy a two course lunch with coffee and mince pie for just £9.95 Or book a Christmas evening meal for just £18/£14

i e

31

2

okings "

(beinChristmas taken

New Year

Bookings required for large parties

High Street, Lechiade Gloucestershire Tel/fax: (01367) 252198

10% discount for takeaway orders Telephone orders welcome. All prices inclusive of VAT Seating for 120 people. Private car park

For reservations, call 616880 Open six days a week Monday - Saturday 12noon - 2.00pm Monday - Thursday 6.00pm - 11.30pm Friday & Saturday 6.00pm - 12 midnight

32

The Link Magazine • December 1999

IAMOND

WELEVISION For friendly and professional service to TVs, Videos, Audio and Hi-Fi, Satellite systems & Computer monitors,

call 01793 497591 Workshop at 15/15a Rodbourne Road Swindon

19th Century name chosen for 21st Century school Work is well underway on the second Abbey Meads prima ry school on Elstree Way to be named after a 19th Century philanthropist Catherine Wayte. She lived in Groundwell House, for poor children. A house in Haynow part of the northern develop- don Wick High Street bears a ment and the school is being built plaque to her name. She died in on the site of Manor Farm which 1816 and is buried at St Mary's Church, Rodbourne Cheney. was owned by her family. With the new school due to open In 1805 Catherine Wayte opened the first school in Haydon Wick next September, education committee chairwomen, Jo Garton Jo Garton views progress at Catherine commented that she was pleased Wayte with Swindon Contractors site it will be named after someone manager Steve Nicholls with local historical significance.

Nurses train in time for new hospital

Private Tuition Ply, timber, hardboard, chipboard, RSJs, sleepers, telegraph poles, bricks, sand & gravel (in bags) Delive ry arranged in Swindon area For more details pop in or tel: 829715 Open: Mon - Sat, 9am - 5pm The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

Vin all subjects & levels

• Key Stages 1-4 • GCSE & A Level • Special Needs Call

Personal Tutorials

A new university course in Swindon is training nurses who will graduate when the town's new hospital opens in 2002. Run by Oxford Brookes Univer- people in Swindon to study for a sity from a suite at the Swindon nursing degree without having to College Ferndale Road centre, the leave the town," said course ad23 students study in a purpose de- ministrator David Evans. "It signed skills laboratory set up like means many more who are rea hospital ward, work at local hos- stricted by distance can now conpitals, and travel to Oxford for sider a career in nursing." some lectures. To find out about Oxford "This is the first opportunity for Brookes in Swindon, call 498431. Enjoying their course with Phillip Ferndale, students Gwen Jones, front left, and Rachel Alport, centre, with from left, Dan Butcher, lecturer, Alix Robins, lecturer/practicioner at PMH, Leslie Crabtree, lecturer, Lorraine Ricks, skills lab technician, David Evans, Stephanie Burnip, head of campus

New

teachers 01672 539368 also wanted 01793 538730

THERE'S MORE TO GROWTH THAN GETTING TALLER!

THEATRE EXPRESS HELPS GROWTH & DEVELOPS POTENTIAL ..... Spring Term starts January 2000 Theatre Express Performing Arts Schools & Theatre Company, has openings at its weekend performing arts schools, based at Swindon and Burford

Theatre Express is, tin! It also helps to develop: self-confidence; self-esteem; articulation; imagination; co-ordination; expression; and other important life skills. Theatre Express training is designed for 5 to 16 year olds. They come together in three age groups, with a maximum of 16 per group, working for one hour, with experienced tutors,, in the disciplines of:

Acting, Singing & Dance.

LIME KILN .

" W LEISURE CENT

SAVERS Fitsave voucher This amazing monthly membership offer gives you the opportunity to pay for your facilities in advance. 31 days unlimited use of: squash courts, health suite, pool, gym & toning table. Only £35 Authorised User Card for gym additional £9.00

Gymsave card

Contact Theatre Express for a Prospectus. Tel/Fax: 01608 676024

Enjoy 31 days unlimited gym usage, with our new monthly gym membership card. Use the card any day, any time. Only £25.00 (subject to timetable and A.U.C.)

Or write to: Theatre Express, PO Box 94 Chipping Norton D.O. OX7 3YL

Massage

E-mail: perform@theatre-express.com

Limey's Festive Fun Days For children 5 to 12 years old 20th, 21st, 22nd,

23rd, 29th, 30th December 9.30am to 3.30pm each day

One hour full body aromatherapy massage £15.00 Half hour aromatherapy massage £10.00 Ask at reception for appointment times

Also Toning table, Leisure passpo rt , Swim tickets THEATRE EXPRESS: THE 1ST CHOICE FOR PERFORMING ARTS IN SWINDON

RE

For details, call (01793) 852197 or 850515 Lime Kiln Leisure Centre, Woo tton Bassett

Mol-th ^J f1fs^7ile

i

I^r,4t r!

Council

Fl y T New start for `Friends' A group set up by women for women in Swindon who want to meet others, share ideas and perhaps go out together has been relaunched and can now be found on the Inte rnet. In December a 'girls night out,' First set up by Alison Deacon last year via an article in The Link and a children's Christmas party which quickly resulted in forty are planned. To find out more, send an SAE members joining, Friends has now received a Millennium lottery to The Administrator, 73 Kirkstall Close, Toothill, Swindon. Website: grant to spread the word. www.swindon-friends.org.uk To receive a membership list women need to submit an applica- Friends on the web and face to face tion form. An exclusive telephone Alison Deacon and Julie Lupton contact point has been established where members can announce events and ask others to call them about going out together.

The Link Magazine • December 1999 33

ii EADSTARTS DAY-CARE & EDUCATIONAL

Stress free party shopping

NURSERY SCHOOL

MONKEY MAYHEM

Delta Business Park

Welton Road, West Swindon

FREE PLACES for eligible 4 year olds Full time places from only £98 per week

O Am/pm, day, school day, full time sessions available.

us for a FREE Children's Party Supplies Mail Order Catalogue with all you'll need for any party

O All year opening, Monday - Friday, 8am - 6pm

Ch ri stmas stocking filters ... toads to choose from

O A ff ordable high quality child-care for children aged 0-5 years O A happy, safe & secure environment

For details or to arrange a visit telephone: 0 1 7 9 3

Call us now on 611582

8 7 7 7 7 9

Long serving Sandras Sandra Marshall and Sandra Stephens, who started on the same day in May 1989 at Upper Shaw Farm pre-school were presented with crystal vases by parents at an annual general meeting in November. To find out about places in this popular pre-school, call Bernie Dudman on 881049. Sandra Marshall and Sandra Stephens with front, Kristian Hughes, JackMatthews, Callum Gunston. Back, Bryony Merritt, Ashkon Raeisinezhadian, Bethany Larrad

VACANCIES Assistant frangais Le college Greendown a West Swindon recherche des personnes francaises pour des conversations en frangais avec nos adorable

etudiants ages entre 11 et 16 ans. Ce serait pour environ 5h par' semaine, paye £6/heure. Interresse(e)? Tel: 874224 Assistant at Sparklers Playgroup, Sparcells. Qualifications and experience not neccessa ry , but an advantage.

Hours: Mon to Fri 9.15am-11.45am and two a ft ernoons 12.15pm -2.45p m Hours are subjectto increase shortly. Good rates of pay.

Closing date: Friday 10 December For an application form. call Tammy

Sone on 0966 550708. e - mail tammy@ sonet.freeserve.co.uk

VACANCIES

LM i /cat Music and movement for the under 5's

Extra toddler group in the North A new parent and toddler group has been formed for mums, dads or carers living in the Abbey Meads area. The group meets on a Monday from 10am - 11am at the community rooms at Abbey Meads Primary School. Anyone is welcome to drop in for a chat and coffee whilst toddlers play and join in songs. The cost is £1 per session. Sorry Little Sunshines Last month we advertised a new Abbey Meads pre-school due to open next June and referred to them as 'Little Suntans.' It should have been Little Sunshines. If you would like to know more about them, contact Angie on 706469 or Sharon on 702163.

Crafty little ones Are you looking for a safe so-

cially stimulating group to attend with your 18 month to 3 year old? Crafty Tots, which meets on Thursdays, 1pm to 2.45pm, at Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall, offers structured activity based on a different weekly theme to keep little minds busy: playdough, glue, scissors, paint, cooking, sand, water, singing, rhyme and story time. Run by NNEB Nursery Nurse Mandy Miller, who has 20 years experience with under 5's, the group is designed for little people with inquisitive minds. To join, drop in and watch your little one start to explore the world of play, or contact Mandy on 875243.

Every Thursday morning from 6th January 2000 in Haydon Wick For more details and prices, telephone Alison on 701104

The physical play programme Tumble Tots require part-time staff for 1.5 days per week in term time Contact Sue Dobson on 01235 868119

Also to cover extra hours when necessary. Full training given

Ridgeway Pre-School Inverary Road, Wroughton

Q14q /cii4 e4IId

l6ie /e

9 gu y

Loved and I.eBmA

educa

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Quality education and childcare for 2 years to 5 years Open 50 weeks a year, 8am-6pm Full range of schedules available

For more information

Qualified teachers and to arrange a visit, please contact following the nursery outcomes for learning

Mrs D Bailey (01793) 845572

34

The Link Magazine • December 1999

Dave Rogers ceei

4(d

Dec,^atoz

Interior and exterio decorating carried out to a high standard including: • Painting • Wallpapering • Tiling • Coving • General Maintenance

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

• Sanctuary Ii / Housing_ Sheltered accommodation for rent for people of retirement age For details, call 01793 511333

Fax: 01793 431067 Sanctua ry Housing Association Swindon Area Office 89/91 Cricklade Road Gorse Hill, Swindon SN2 1AB

A home for life

Posters illustrate diary for 2000

Sanctua ry Housing provides sheltered homes for older people, and is planning its role in next year's national campaign to raise awareness Care for the environment was the message youngsters were asked of the potential of sheltered housing. The government recently pub- but have help on site if there is an to portray on a poster in the annual Burmah Castrol young perlished a report into the needs of emergency". An week is planned starting on sons environmental competition. older people, stating that many do There were 300 entries received not need residential care, but do 22 May to raise awareness of shelneed help from relevant agencies tered housing. It is hoped to pro- from schools across the Great Westmote the benefits to older people ern Community Forest region. to stay in their own homes. The Mayor of Swindon preSanctuary Housing is one of at and their families. sented the twelve winning entrants Clive and his team are busily least seven sheltered housing associations that operate independ- planning open days and spon- with certificates on 17 November. sored events. "The role of warden, Their posters illustrate a Millenently within the Swindon area. It has two schemes locally: Park or enabler as they are now called, nium diary produced by commuFarm, Moredon and Haydon has changed considerably in re- nity forest team. cent years. They are able to be pro- The Mayor with front, Ellen Howard, Court, Haydon Wick. Clive Barton, senior manager at active in the support of elderly Neil Laws, Peatmoor, Megan Gibson, Sanctuary explained the aims of people, talking to the family, GPs Brook Field. Teacher Jacquie Adams the organisation. "Our aim is to and social services to ensure the and Emma Krishnan from Brook Field, right, collected a commendation for provide support to help the elderly right help is provided." Anyone interested in obtaining live in their own house within a safe community, thus limiting the further information about shelneed to go into a residential home. tered housing should contact "The benefit is that older peo- Swindon Borough Council on ple can retain their independence 463000 or the enabler of a housing in high quality accommodation scheme to arrange a visit.

Sort out your divorce through the Internet Couples considering divorce or separation can now turn to the Internet to get help and information from the local Family Mediation Service The office in Swindon is helping to spearhead a major national campaign extolling the benefits of family mediation for parting couples caught up in disputes and is featured on a new website launched

by the charity National Family Mediation @ www.nfm.u-net.com Wendy Hall, the Service Manager in Swindon, said, "it's appropriate that the latest technology should be at the disposal of people seeking help with divorce and separation, just as so many other forms of information are now available on the Internet. "We know that many more people could benefit if only they knew more about the process and where to go for information."

Haydon Wick Bowls Club present The Aldbourne Band Christmas Concert at the Haydon Centre Saturday 11 December, 7.30pm £4, concessions £3.50 Tickets from Haydon Centre or Barrie on 722972

Christmas: not perfect - just happy Christine Gill, Centre Manager at Relate Swindon Ltd writes

For your retirement living we currently have vacancies at Brain Court, Stratton St. Margaret and Windmill Court, Freshbrook, Swindon. Please contact our Regional Office: Western Region, 10 The Parade Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1NE

Tel: 01672 515622

James Butcher Housing Association

Relate's long experience of working with couples has revealed what powerful stresses Christmas and New Year can place on relationships and family life. There is enormous pressure to get everything right - to make delicious food, choose clever presents (without breaking the bank), keep all the extended family happy and to look good. For some Christmas is a financial mountain to climb - a time when all the hype rubs in the fact that the presents the children want are too expensive and that there is not enough money to go round. Resentment can build up and the days around Christmas can become a battleground, fuelled by alcohol, over eating rich food and tiredness. So Relate suggests the following recipe for a 'good enough' Christmas:

Take time to plan with all the family and find out what each person really enjoys doing to prepare for Christmas Listen to what each member would like to do over the holiday Make sure the work is not done by one person - share out the chores. Some people like shopping on Christmas Eve! Don't let resentments build up to a crescendo - talk now about your expectations and how you can help each other to achieve them. Bring all your worries out into the open well ahead of time Make sure there's time to rest and relax Give yourself a treat - however small Work out the Christmas budget and stick to it Don't strive for a perfect Christmas - just a happy one.

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Feast of Life

The Link Maqazine • December 1999

Perry's on guard

A musical for the new millennium which highlights the unjust burden of debt which is carried by millions of people in the third world, conveying a message of hope and celebration of what is possible if governments write-off debt o ff. Drama studio Greendown School, Friday 3 & Saturday 4 December, 7.30pm. Tickets from Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. Tel: 874221 Presented by the Partnership Churches of West Swindon & the Lydiards

Students hear of hurricane town

recovery Edith Matute from Swindon's twin town Ocotal in Nicaragua visited Greendown School on 18 November to talk to year 7 and 9 students about the efforts of the country to recover after the disastrous hurricane last year. She told the students how the hurricane winds and torrential rains cost lives and swept away the livelihoods of thousands. Simone Mistry-Palmer said, "people are very poor in Ocotal; we are very rich and lucky. We should raise some money to help." The Swindon Ocotal Link has raised £41,000 in hurricane relief. Edith Matute shows photographs of hurricane damage to Simone MistryPalmer

35

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Playworker wanted by the West Swindon Family & Community Project on Tuesdays 4pm - 6pm. Experience preferred. Telephone 871303 for details Winners of competitions in the November Link Tickets to Freak Out at the Wyvern: Erica Sefton, Avonmead, Greenmeadow, MrsJ Ryman, Hylder Close, Woodhall Park Copies of Oz Clarke's pocket wine guide: Mrs S Parker, Elsham Way, Abbey Meads, Mrs K Richardson, Charlton, Malmsbury, Mrs J Herbert, BrooklandsAve, Rodbourne Cheney, Peter Day, Severn Ave., Greenmeadow

Christmas Fete Saturday 11 December, 2pm Pendlebury Nursing Home Old Shaw Lane, Shaw Many stalls including bric-a-brac, cakes, tombola, gifts In aid of the Residents Amenity Fund Coffee & mince pie morning Sat 11 December, 10am - 12noon The Church Hall, Devizes Road Also book and bric-a-brac sale In aid of projects at Christ Church with St Mary's Christmas Bazaar Sparklers Playgroup Sparcells Social Hall Saturday 11 December, 2pm

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For Sale

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BMX bike 3-5 yrs, £10. Kettler go-kart, 4-8 yrs, £25. Selection T. Tank engine trains, all excel cond. Tel: 879414 Raleigh Mustang gents mountain bike, mudguards, side stand and helmet, £55. Tel: 874034 Girls Raleigh bike, suit 6-9 yrs, 5 gears, exc cond, £40. 2 dolls buggies, Chelful , suit 3-6 years, gd cond, £2 each. Tel: 870871 Boys Raleigh Demon bike, excel cond, age 6-8 yrs, £30. Tel: 881425 Tomy Glide'n'Ride car sear/rocking chair, 0-9 months, vgc, £20. Duvet cover, curtains, pillowcase, lampshade, Viva la Wombat design by Crown, £12. Tyco children's camcorder, black & white, £25. Silver Cross Wayfarer pushchair, raincover, wedge, sunshade, £50. Tel: 886919 Jeenay Nest Egg car seat, 0-9 months, inc head hugger, £12. Mother Care Olympus pushchair, sun canopy & cosytoes, £45. Tel: 534426 Mother Care pine cot, safety mattress, sheets, quilt, matching bumper, cover, sheets, p/c, all matching, £65. Tel: 771640 Silver Cross 1979 navy blue coach built pram, detachable body, £70. Tel: 771640 Royale coach built pram, large wheels, sprung chassis, navy blue, includes apron and mattress, gd cond, £50. Tel: 488468 Britax car seat, £20. Cot bumper & duvet, £8. Stickle bricks, £5. Cozy toes £8. Tricycle £5. Tel: 772651 Maternity clothes, size 12-14, exc cond, £30 the lot, or will separate. Tel: 534426 Seven summer party dresses, 3 blouses, new, one swimming costume, 8/ 10 yrs, £28.50. Tel: 771640 One pair new Farah trousers, sand, one BHS, grey, waist 30", inside leg 31", £7.50 each pair. Tel: 771640 Golf clubs, Top Flite Tour, 3 iron, sand wedge, plus 3 and 5 wood, exc cond, £160. Tel: 875914 Arlin Performance Chase racing track, sound box, loops, hardly used, boxed, £40. Chicco Vanity Unit, gd cond, boxed, £15. Tel: 875205 Light green 2 seater sofa, Derwent make, £50 ono. Tel: 701525 3' single pine bed with clean mattress, good cond, £30. Tel: 436425 Courts dining room furniture, blue/grey cupboard base unit and top drinks cabinet, immaculate, £45. Tel: 886876 Standard lamp in table, £5. Green easy chair with wings, £10. Floral covered fireside chair, £5. Tel: 421716 Headboard, pink dralon, to fit 5ft bed, £15. Tel: 531758 Hot tray, Salton, brown, electric, shelf under for warming plates, plus hotspot, £25. Tel: 874523 Hand made solid pine Welsh dresser, only one yr old, 3 shelves & 2 cupboards, £175. Tel: 703177 Sink unit, 1.5 bowl, white with mixer taps, £25. Tel: 705423

M & S Harvest crockery: cups, saucers, toast rack, gravy boat, butter dish, utensils jar, milk jug, as new, £20. Tel: 881362 Teak wardrobe, £25. Tel: 705423 Dark oak display cabinet with leaded glass doors & two small cupboards below, 3'6" wide x 1' deep. £30. Tel: 644765 Pine cabinet with glass doors & cupboards under, H183cm, W80cm, D41 cm(max), good condition. £20. Pine chest of 4 drawers, H76cm, W80cm, D41 cm, good condition. £20. Tel: 702355 Computer workstation, wood effect with brown metal frame, 2' wide x 1'8" deep, sliding shelf for keyboard, excel cond, £25. Tel: 644765 White Neff built in electric oven & grill & gas hob, £100. Hopoint fridge freezer, almond, £40. Tel: 705423 Conservatory set, 2 seater, 2 armchairs, perfect cond, £210 ono. Tel: 424651 Bendix dishwasher, reasonable cond, £50 ono. Tel: 722818 Cannon gas fire, new elements, £20. Wooden extension ladder, £15. 2 foot ship's mattresses x 2, £15. Nest of tables, £5. Tel: 421716 Calor gas heater and bottle, £40. 2 electric wall heaters, £10. Tel: 876195 Microwave, brown, good working order, £20. Tel: 879274 Goodmans vcr, £35. 3 piece suite, maroon, £150 ono. Hotpoint fridge freezer, £35. Lawn mower, £20. Baby cot, bath, walker, £100 for all. Tel:887759 Apple Mac software: Sim City 2000, Sim Farm, Sim Isle, Worms, Command & Conquer, Atlas and Human Body, £10 each. Tel: 644765 Canon BCI -21 ink cartridges, one black, one colour, sealed, unused. £20 for both. Tel: 644765 Home brewing equipment, 2 pressure barrels with injectors, 2 fermenting bins, electric boiler, other bits, offers? Tel: 871515 Madonna 2 glossy 8x10 stunning photographs, both autographed with authenticity certificates. David Bowie 8x1 0 autographed 1983 tour. All guaranteed, £200 each. Tel: 876166 Sega megadrive, 2 & 6 games, & 2 control pads, £20. Red Puma King football boots, size 5, £5. White Addidas Predator league boots, size 5, £15. Tel: 870222 A level history and English books, good as new. Tel: 728440 Briefcase, box type, £5. Electric fire, 3kw £5. Roofing felt roll, £5 Wanner grease gun, £5. Tel: 722158 Car ladder rack, gutter fitting. Krooklock. £4 each or £7 for both. Tel: 886487 Rabbit hutch, 4ft long, new, on legs, ideal for guinea pigs, weather proofed, £35. Tel: 724512

After-school care required for

boy aged 4, girl aged 7, atTregoze School. Tel: 879083 after 7pm Garage sale: many items- single

beds, boy's clothes (0-2 years), toys, cot & cot bedding, ladies clothes size 10-12, wedding dress etc. To view tel 872531

Wanted Brio - any wooden railway accessories. Tel: 886919 Odd balls of wool for OAP. Also desk, max price £10. Tel: 487494

Lost Black folding walking stick on 1 November. If found call 530538

Accommodation Large single room for rent, professional person to share house, non-smoker, close to all facilities and 1/2 mile from M4 J 16, £70 per week incl. Tel: 872531

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Church services for Christmas & the New Year

._.

ALL SAINTS, LYDIARD MILLICENT

Si.

Monday 13th

8pm

Sunday 19th

10.30am

Sunday 12th Sunday 19th Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve

6.30pm 5pm

11.30pm Christmas Day Sam 10.30am Sunday 26th F ri day 31st

10.30am 11.15pm

Christmas and Millennium Concert by Wootton Bassett Choral Society Christingle Service - Children & families especially welcome Service of Lessons and Carols Christmas Family Se rv ice - Children & families especially welcome Midnight Communion Holy Communion BCP Christmas Day Family Service -Children & families especially welcome Morning Communion Service (ASB) Millennium Reflection & Worship Service

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integri ty Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS 10.30AM AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

& PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTRE All ages of children & teens cared for Information: call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Christmas Carol Service in aid of the NSPCC Friday 10 December, 7.15pm Christ Church, Swindon Light a candle for the future whilst remembering the past Tickets (no charge), from 431275 Christingle Celebration St John's Church, Haydon Wick Sunday 12 December, 4pm In aid of The Children's Society A Christmas Celebration presented by St Joseph's School to include music from Handel's Messiah and carols Thursday 16 December, 7.30pm Holy Rood Church, Groundwell Rd

MARY'S, LYDIARD TREGOZE

6.30pm 6.30pm 4pm 11.30pm Christmas Day 10.30pm Sunday 26th 10.30pm 11.15pm Friday 31st

HOLY TRINITY, SHAW VILLAGE CENTRE

Sunday 19th

10.30am

6.30pm Christmas Eve 3pm 11.30pm Christmas Day 10.30am 10.30am Sunday 26th Sunday 12th

10am

Sunday 19th Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sunday 26th

6.30pm 3pm 10am 10am

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' 1 (i m m m building with people Worsley Road, Freshbrook Tel: 873050

Carol Service by Candlelight Crib Service (all the family) Midnight Communion Christmas Day Family Communion Family Service Family Service & Nativity Carol Se rv ice by Candlelight

Crib Service Christmas Family Communion Morning Service with coffee, cakes & carols

TOOTHILL CHURCH, TOOTHILL VILLAGE CENTRE

10.45am 10.45am 4pm Christmas Eve 11.30pm Christmas Day 10.45am Friday 31st 11.45pm Sunday 12th Sunday 19th

Family Service & Nativity Carol Service Christingle Service Christmas Midnight Communion Christmas Family Service Service of Contemplation

PILGRIM CENTRE, REGENTS CIRCUS, SWINDON

Saturday 1st Janua ry 2000, 11am Civic Service to welcome in the new Millennium ST PETER'S CHURCH, CARRONBRIDGE ROAD, WESTLEA

10am 6pm 11.30pm Christmas Day 10am Sunday 26th 10am Sat 1st January 6pm

^SOO^F,vangeftc l ^^

Family Service & Nativity

WESTLEA CHURCH, WESTLEA SCHOOL

Christmas Eve

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Carol Praise (at Hook Village Hall) Carols by Candlelight Crib Service First Communion of Christmas Christmas Day Family Service Morning Service Watch Night Service

Mass Children's Mass Carols followed by Midnight Mass Mass Mass Mass

FRESHBROOK EVANGELICAL CHURCH, WORSLEY ROAD

10am Family service, with participation by children 6.30pm Carol Service - all welcome, creche Christmas Day 10am Service of Praise and Thanksgiving Sunday 19th

SUNDAY 19` 1 DECEMBER: CAROL SERVICES 10.00am Family service, including participation by children 6.30pm Carol Service - all welcome, creche available, refreshments served CHRISTMAS DAY 10.00am Service of Praise and Thanksgiving

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST THE SERVANT LEP

"God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son..." (John 3 v16)

Meeting in the Abbey Meads School Hall unless otherwise stated 10.30am Christmas Community Service Sunday 5th Friday 17th 6.30pm Christmas Carol singing outdoors at the village cent re with The Salvation Army Band 4pm Joint Carol Service at St. Andrews, Blunsdon Sunday 19th Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Service EMMANUEL UNITED REFORMED CHURCH, HAYDON WICK

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

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The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

Sundayl9th Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sunday 26th Friday 31st

4pm 11.30pm 11am 10.45am 11.30pm

Family Carol Service Midnight Communion Informal Family Worship Morning Worship Service of Quiet Reflection

ST. JOHN'S, HAYDON WICK

Sunday 19th

11am 6.30pm

Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sunday 26th Friday 31st

11.30pm 10am 10am 6.30pm

All Age Carol Service Carols by Candlelight [United Service with Emmanuel URC] Midnight Communion by Candlelight All Age Christmas Service All Age Communion Service All Age Millennium Worship

ST MARY'S (C OF E) CHURCH, AKERS WAY, NR 13URGHLEY PARK

Sunday 19th 6.30pm Christmas Eve 11.30pm Christmas Day 9.15am 11am

Carols by Candlelight - bring your candle) Midnight Communion Christmas Communion Service Christmas Family Service

MILLENNIUM THOUGHTS

39

A different view on the coming of Year 2000 Since last February The Link has contained a monthly comment on the coming of Year 2000. As we move close to a date which is to some profoundly spiritual, and a complete boozing binge for others, we asked Dr Francesca Elloway to conclude the series. She is linked to St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park via the Church Mission Society. In October she visited Swindon, on leave from her work overseas. his Christmas and New Year will be my first in the UK T since 1993. For the past six years I have spent them in Africa, mainly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, (DRC), the former Zaire, where I work as a doctor. Of course this year is special, being the millennium, but I am already surprised by the hype and sadly see that much of it bears little relation to what the millennium really celebrates - the birth of Jesus Christ 2000 years ago. Both Christmas and the millennium will be much quieter affairs in Congo. On both days families will try to eat a special meal - one that has meat which is a luxury that many folk will not be able to afford. I think that relatively few people will stay up until midnight on New Year's eve. There is no electricity where I have been working so once it gets dark people tend to have a meal and then go to bed. Candles, torches and paraffin lamps are available for lighting,

on peace, love and hope. We all have the hope to begin again and start a new life at the millennium." I' m sure that these thoughts would be reiterated by folk in many parts of the world where there is currently tension, unrest or war. So many long for a lasting peace to come to their country that will enable everyone to live without fear and to have access to the basic necessities of life: food, health care and education. I am very much looking forward to both Christmas and the beginning of the new millennium, to be able to spend them peacefully with Francesca Elloway with children at Oliver Tomkins Infants School my family and friends in the UK. I but all cost money. Churches will civil war, so their thoughts are un- shall enjoy the festivities, but I hope be decorated with fresh foliage and derstandably focused on the con- that I will not forget to be thankful flowers, but otherwise there will flict so close at hand. that I have been born in this counbe no decorations, no Christmas One said, "we see it as a time of try with its peace and relative prostrees, no fireworks and probably hope, the time to end the war. It is perity, and that I will remain conno presents. a moment of light, when we hope. cerned for those, who through no Seeing all the activity here made God will bring each person to a fault of their own, find themselves me wonder what my colleagues in new start." facing a much more precarious and the DRC are thinking about when Another said, "our wish is that uncertain future. they reflect on the millennium. The on New Year's eve God will reveal I hope the next millennium will country is sadly in the midst of a himself to each person on both be peaceful and joyful for us all, sides of the conflict, so that all will lets do our best to make it so for unite to build a new Congo based everyone.

Thank you Swindon for helping in a crisis

The Upper Stratton Baptist Church Kosovo Albanian Refugee Appeal has now sent its final truckload of aid to the crisis-hit Balkan region, writes church elder Chris Butcher. Opened in April by USBC, the appeal generated a tremendous response from the people of Swindon. Some 8,500 boxes of food, clothing, bedding and sanitary items - over 1,000 cubic metres of aid - has been sent on a total of 12 articulated trucks.

tact with Dudley Powell, formerly an Anglican curate in Swindon and now a missionary in Albania, the right kind of aid was directed quickly to refugees in the Berat area of Albania where he is based. Through daily e-mail messages the church was able to keep fully abreast of the latest needs - even managing to provide a custombuilt goods trailer which was built and despatched within 9 days. As the refugees returned to their homes, the trucks from Swindon were sent into Kosovo itself, initially to a village near Prizren and most recently to Prishtina. Over 300 people helped us sort, pack and load the aid which has helped many thousands, of people whose lives were torn apart by the conflict. As Christians we could not Chris Butcher, right, with USBC elder just watch and weep. We firmly and jointappeal organ iser John Sinnnonds believe that God called us to do at the first lorry loading in May this, and that He helped us diWe are extremely grateful to the rectly on many occasions throughpeople of Swindon for their gener- out the appeal. So many specific osity. We knew at the outset that prayers were answered - it was we had to do something, but never tremendously exciting. dreamed we would be able to do We want to take this opportuso much. The appeal was funded nity to say a very big 'thank you' to entirely by donations - totalling everyone who supported us, and more than £40,000. to The Link for the tremendous supAs a result of the church's con- port and encouragement too.

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*Fully trained & insured operators * Commercial rates available * Dupont Stainshield Protects against spills and dirt * Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh

* Professional spotting kits available Stain removal made easy * Anti Allergy Treatment For asthma & allergy sufferers * Satisfaction guaranteed

Phone now for free no obligation quotation on

1)1793 - 870756 ULTRA CLE AN (WILTSHIRE) Open: Mon - Fri 9.00am

7.00pm • Sat 9.00am -1.00pm.

Colin and Dawn Butcher are delighted to announce the opening of

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Offering * 8 new en-suite double rooms, centrally heated, double glazed and overlooking fields, each with colour television and tea/coffee making facilities * Extended 30 cover restaurant with comprehensive menu, cooked to order • Refurbished bar area with snacks and light meals, cask beers such as 6X, Worthington, Bass, lagers, ciders, fine wines and spirits • Country location Situated one mile from West Swindon, close to M4 junction 16

Records show that the Bolingbroke was a licensed hostelry before 1841 in the ownership of the Bolingbroke family of nearby Lydiard Park.

Now, not only is The Bolingbroke a delightful social meeting point, it also offers excellent accommodation for relations, friends and the business person.

Since purchasing The Bolingbroke in 1998, Dawn and Colin, right, have established a friendly, welcoming country restaurant and bar close to Swindon with a reputation that is spreading far and wide.

The Bolingbroke, Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett, Swindon Tel: (01793) 852357 • Fax: (01793) 854972 Restaurant and bar open daily: 12noon - 2.30pm; 7pm - 10.30pm

All major credit cards accepted