Issuu

Suggest a name for a Aiming for a life change new primary school See page 5

o offer B on Tancock takes up our Bryony p to get fit with the help of personal trainer Richie Jeffers. See page 37

Mayor declares himself to be school dinners' champion

There's a warm seasonal welcome from MrAli and his staff at `Parton 's hidden Indian treasure

A seminar on child nutrition and school meals organised by The Link and award winning Swindon company Lets Do Lunch could see improvements across Swindon, with help from the Mayor, coun Ray Fisher. Story on page 12

The Mayor with Jeanette Orrey, the dinner lady responsible for putting school dinners at the top of the national political agenda, at the meeting on 7 November

Youngsters attack litter problem

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Looking for the Angel Every town has one says the Bishop of Swindon Lee Rayfield and he is starting to discover it. He explains on page 4

Food Bank collects at North centre on 10 December

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The Link Magazine • December 2005

Give a future with a tea bag!

SueLynn Partners ! For tailor made Curtains Swags & tails Pelmets Roman blinds Measuring and fitting advice For further information call Sue: 01793 870451 or Ly nn: on 01793 330595

A couple inspired by a trip to South Africa are urging Swindon residents to think twice when making a brew. system," said Bob. Bob and Lyn New"Many of the families in man from Westlea are I mazamo Yethu does convinced that ordic not have electricity, runnary tea bags could imS, f ping water, or sewage .- . prove the lives of peodisposal. In spite of their ple on another Conti hardship, the people we nent. After seeing first met were cheerful and hand the poverty that friendly." engulfs people living in Those lucky enough ' the sprawling townto be at the top of the list ships of South Africa ® for more permanent ¶• ( i' they are determined to housing, are slowly behelp one refreshing ing helped by a building project. project privately funded While visiting the Tea groin in India consumed in Britain, can provide jobs from Ireland, where volImazamo Yethu townin South Africa. Bob and Lyn hold dried teabags unteers travel to South ship near Cape Town and examples of craftwork made from there Africa for a short period the couple met Englishwoman Jill Heyes over a cup of tea. winter months in Cape Town when each year to construct small conShe has started an unusual busi- there are far fewer tourists visiting crete block houses. In the context of Imazamo Yethu these small ness, Original T-Bag Designs, pro- the area. The couple had no intention of dwellings are luxury compared to viding work for local people who would otherwise be unemployed, visiting a township, as they did the very basic plastic sheet and They use dried teabags - emp- not wish to intrude on the misfor- corrugated iron shacks which are tied of tea leaves- to decorate cards, tune of others. Luckily they were home to whole families. Jill's project provides hope and stationery, packaging, wooden convinced by a tour guide that it boxes, mats, coasters and candle might be a rewarding experience, money to settlements likelmazano and travelled to the settlement of Yethu,andthesimpleactofsaving holders. a teabag could make a positive But they need more. Bob and Imazamo Yethu at Hout Bay. "What we saw brought home to difference for hundreds of people. Lyn hope to provide Jill with a constant supply of teabags with us, in a very brutal way, how for- Anyone interested in saving and the help of readers. Bob wants to tunate we are to have a lifestyle recyclingusedteabagsshouldconfind ways to sell the finished prod- which gives us more than just the tact Bob Newman on 872389 or ucts in the UK, a move that would basic necessities of life, and to live mail: bobandlyn25@aol.com www.tbagdesigns.co.za be particularl y helpful during the in a country with a social support

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Supporting the less fortunate this festive season Swindon Christmas Care will be providing shelter, food and clothing for anyone who is alone and in need of company, or homeless over the Christmas period, from Saturday 24 December until Wednesday 28 December, at the Methodist Church, Queens Drive, Park South. The project depends entirely on 7pm to 9.30pm and also Saturday voluntary donations of warm 17 December, 10am to 3.30pm. No bedding or clothing can be clothing, bedding, toys, books, toiletries and towels, food and con- accepted after 20 December. fectionery. Money to cover exFor details of Christmas Care and to make donations, call Patsy penses is also needed. Items can be delivered to Queens Moloney on 642368. Drive Methodist Church on FriTo volunteer to help, call Betty day 16 and Tuesday 20 December, Spence on 485483.

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The Link Magazine • December 2005

Looking for the Angel in Swindon The Link asked the Bishop of Swindon Lee

Hayfield

to tell us what he thinks of the town

What image does the word 'angel' conjure? Many will instinctively visualise wings, harps and radiant figures which are neither male nor female. Few will think first of that strange book at the end of the Bible which speaks of angels associated with specific places. In the book of Revelation it seems that the angel of a place or community characterises attitudes and patterns of behaviour. The 'angel' is equivalent to the spirit of a place or a group of people. As a town we are not comfortSince arriving in the Borough in While some saw the advent of the social sphere, in that Swindon June I have been reflecting on the the M4 as a threat to rural life, key has been adept at integrating peo- able with what we are. We seem to angel or spirit of Swindon. What Swindonians appreciated its sig- ple from a wide range of back- often look at other places and comthings seem 'written in' to our atti- nificance and did their best to bring grounds and cultures. At various pare ourselves to them rather than tudes and behaviour as a town? the motorway within closer reach. ti mes in the post war era, Swindon enjoy and celebrate what - and who Which of them enrich our life In these times of ecological and has absorbed significant numbers - we are. It feels like we try too hard together and are strengths to be environmental awareness, Swin- of immigrants into the wider com- to be acceptable to others; this is a celebrated and developed? Which don is among a small group of munity with relatively little social characteristic of immaturity. There is much more I could say of them diminish us and hold back boroughs looking to become 'car- upheaval. In a world which is beour growth and maturity? bon neutral' and its churches have coming increasingly divided and but space forbids me going furFor me the obvious starting place taken a lead in pursuing green 'tribal' this is a precious quality. ther. Maybe it is a good thing to is our pioneering spirit and instinct energy schemes. Overall Swindon is character- affirm several positive qualities of to embrace and develop new techIt seems to me that our pioneer- ised by a spirit of care and concern our town's spirit or angel and only nologies. The town had its birth as ing spirit and receptiveness to new for others. This is evidenced by the mention one failing. Inevitably this a response to innovative technol- directions is a foundational large number of community or- is a preliminary, provisional and personal reflection ogy in the shape of the railway and strength. Perhaps underlying this ganisations seeking but I hope some of was the first place in Wiltshire to is a greater willingness to face the to provide a helping what I have written have a telephone exchange. Nowa- necessity of change and to cooper- hand or make life resonates with othdays, Swindon provides a base for ate with it rather than resist it. better for those who ers' perceptions and leading edge companies like Such flexibilit y within the eco- find themselves in experience. Motorola, Intel, Honda and BMW. nomic sphere has been mirrored in difficulty. I have been I shall continue to i mpressed by their ponder the angel of range, and the skill Swindon because the and commitment of better we understand those who give their the spirit of the town energies through 41 the better we might them. Having highlighted build on our London trained mobile hair stylist these considerable strengths of our strengths and overcome our flaws. For a visit call Sue on 07796 432 700 l spirit, what might be said about 'the If we know who we are we may or email sue@thecuttingclub.com dark side'? better appreciate what we might, The most obvious thing to me is with the grace of God, become. insecurity which in an individual We are approaching that time would be summed up as a lack of when the mention of angels conself-esteem. For a variety of rea- jures up a throng of children gathsons Swindon has become a place ered around a tableau of the holy family and fidgeting with their to deride and pour scorn upon. The town is caricatured as a dump, haloes! It is both a delightful and presa cultural wilderness, or a lawless _ surised period. Despite all the and heartless urban sprawl. What worries me is that we are busyness and demands may you 'iEi^#fEER l buying into this caricature - even find the peace of the Prince of Peace when we instinctively deny it or and enjoy a happy and holy Christprotest. mas.

iii-

Now

____I

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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

pstered in England & Wales- No 4513027. Registered office. 130 H,gn Stree:. Hungerford. Berks. RG17 ODL. Printed by pcp. Telford

The Link Magazine â€˘ December 2005

Help name a primary school Construction is moving on apace at the new schools in North Swindon, and the governors of one of the primary schools are looking for your help in naming one of them. PS4, as it's currently known, t is the new primary school at 4. the heart of the Haydon End community in Priory Vale. It r has recently advertised in the national press for a headteacher to be appointed in the [ ^a Spring, ready to recruit staf and prepare the 240 place K F ^^ s school for its opening next ^^ September. He added that the governors The first residents of Haydon End moved into their new homes wanted to avoid any confusion last July and the area will rapidly with existing schools, those with fill up before the new school opens. 'Haydon' or 'Oak' in the title. The name could draw on the Chair of Governors Clint Ricketts said the governors are local history or features of North counting on readers to help them Swindon. On the other hand, the come up with a name for the corn- school is surrounded by streets munityschool,"severalofourgov- taken from Swindon's twin link ernors are quite new to Swindon, with the City of Torun, in Poland. Send your suggested names for and we're keen to hear from readers who can suggest a name which PS4, with a short explanation, to is both interesting and distinctive The Link, 70 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX or mail: to our area. "The school's being built on a publisher@swindonlink.com The closing date is 5 January green field site. It's a very exciting project and the governors believe 2006 after which the governors will the name will be very important in meet to discuss the ideas. If they helping to establish the character can't make a decision, they will and community in this part of ask readers to vote on a shortlist in the February edition. Priory Vale."

Tunnel plan recipe for gridlock say campaigners A campaign group says there is going to be chaos around M4 Junction 16 if Swindon Council and Wiltshire County Council go ahead with the Wiltshire and Swindon Structure Plan proposal to direct traffic under the M4 and onto Hay Lane, rather than build a link road from the Front Garden to Great Western Way as first planned.

West Swindon , J16

G^e^`^ r Croft^R'd FRONT GARDEN

wy Lane.

Route proposed originally links back into Swindon via Great Western Way

Tunnel route connects to Junction 16 and opens access to Rural Buffer to south of Swindon

Wroughton M4

The Council for the Protection of Rural England and residents of Wroughton and Wootton Bassett say the tunnel plan has been introduced to the Structure Plan without adequate cost benefit analysis or examination of alternative road schemes. The Local Plan inspector, commenting on the Southern Development Area scheme (the Front Garden), has written: 'I accept that there does not appear to have been a comprehensive comparison of alternative road schemes for the SDA outside of the Environmental Statement accompanying the planning application.' The campaigners are also worried that the road under the M4 and the consequent upgrading of Hay Lane will open up the land south of the motorway and west of Wroughton to development pressures. More detail can be found at: www.stopthetunnel.com

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The Link Magazine • December 2005

Christmas in The Lane as= aa,s=eI^a ^^ ^

Wrap up warm, don the mufflers and woolly hats, and bring a lantern or torch. People living on the west side of Old Shaw Lane are planning an outdoor fund raising evening on Sunday 11 December. Last year's first low key event gifts, crafts, cards, cakes, holly was such a success that organisers wreaths and other surprises. "We were surprised by how Lesley and Ray Dredge are hoping • to raise a lot of money for Break- many people came along last Dethrough Breast Cancer and the cember, after reading about it in The Link," said Lesley. "It was a lot Prospect Hospice. Stalls will be set up in the lane of fun so we thought we'd help and front yards selling Christmas people get into the Christmas spirit in the traditional way again."

Outdoor lights needed Can anybody lend some lighting to illuminate Old Shaw Lane for a few hours on 11 December? To help call Lesley or Ray on 772869.

There will be free mulled wine to warm the cockles with every mince pie sold. Santa will be in his grotto and join in with community carol singing led by folk singers Val Turner and Steve Anderson.

Shoppers iii the Lane last December

Launch your Christmas with a community get together on Old Shaw Lanebetween4pm and 7pm.

Look out for Santa

Whether it's the latest cut, colour or re-style call 874825 for an appointment or free consultation ;entre, Shaw, Swindon

The man in red will be escorted by firefighters from Westlea station on the evenings of 20, 21 and 22 December collecting for the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund. They will be PIRF sCRVICES touring in a 1940s vintage fire engine and will visit Westlea, Eastleaze, Old Shaw, Nine Elms, Peatmoor and Sparcells. They hope to top last year's £1,000 collection.

The Link Magazine • December 2005

Sally nears her target after online auction A rugby shirt signed by the 2005 British Lions has raised £310 towards a powered wheelchair for Freshbrook mum Sally Lawrence. She appeared on the November Link front page modelling the shirt donated by reader Sarah O'Rafferty from Taw Hill, before it was put up for auction on e-bay by r advertiser Let Us Auction It. Multiple Sclerosis sufferer Sally, who launched an appeal for help to purchase a wheelchair in the October edition, has had a tremenGrace Bartlett, Kiri and Beblunn I angridge, Holly Farr, Georgia Laigridge from dous response from readers. Apart St Mary's Church of England Primary School in Purton read The Link story about from the rugby shirt, money has Sally's appeal and organised their own sponsored swim. Between them they swam been raised through sponsored 376 lengths and raised a marvellous £100 swims by Westlea mum Jane Upfold and five children from Freshbrook Church Ladies' Olivia Reeves, she hopes to donate Purton. Group made one of several cash any surplus funds to the Swindon contributions and Sally's Therapy Centre for MS at Cheney friend Dan Hintson went be- Manor. yond the call of duty on 12 November when he endured a Haydon lights full body wax, tenderly applied switch on at Partners Hair Salon. Sally's initial target was The annual illumination of the £2,000 but with a discount from Bowers bungalow at 8 Avonmead, Green meadow takes place the manufacturers negotiated by West Swindon based dis- on Sunday 4 December, 6.30pm. Smarty Pants the clown will en-' ability equipment supplier tertain the children beforehand and Sally, rear right, was able to witafloat will tourthestreetsof Hayden ness Dan taking it like a man from Wick from 4pm. Caroline Bell and Charlie Boyce at Bucket donations and proceeds Partners. Dan reckons to have raised from a tombola and refreshments, £300 for his suffering and said he will go to the Swindon Therap would be charging work mates exfor Multiple Sclerosis

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Priory Vale in North Swindon brings homes from five of the UK's leading housebuilders together in one inspiring location. In this issue, George Wimpey explains how it's helping first-time buyers get on the property ladder at The Shires

GEORGE WIMPEY FOCUSES ON FIRST TIME BUYERS First time buyers may feel as though getting onto the property ladder is an impossibility, especially if they want to buy in a popular location where house prices are rising. With this in mind, quality house builder George Wimpey has developed a range of new homes specifically designed for first time buyers in the right location and with the right financial support packages. Perfect for first time buyers, The Shires is George Wimpey's latest development in Priory Vale offering two bedroom apartments from just £131,995. Each week a different apartment will be offered as `Property of the Week' and will come with a number of incentives such as stamp duty paid, 5% deposit or £500 towards legal fees. There has already been an excellent response to the first

phase of this development and reservations are now being taken for the second phase. In addition to extending its offer to suit first ti me buyers, George Wimpey is also still developing homes that suit established homeowners looking for more space. The Shires also offers a number of three and four bedroom houses with prices starting from £204,995. To make moving home as easy as possible, the George Wimpey Assisted Purchase Plan has been exclusively designed to help buyers sell their property quickly and easily, so that they can move into their new home as soon as possible. The Assisted Purchase Plan helps customers find a buyer for their home as well as assisting them in the purchase process. Customers can reserve a new home with the confidence that George Wimpey is doing everything it can to support the sale of their existing property.

E Icr&v1 [IIeWAvjfl iN Visit the sales centre at The Shires and you'll be greeted by Julie James and Katrina Gribbon, both of whom have years of experience finding people their perfect home. Julie and Katrina will not only make y ou feel more than welcome on arrival at the development, but are also on hand to give you advice at each stage of the buying process. Katrina comments: "We deal with everything from initial enquiries to helping Left: First time buyers are welcomed at the sales centre at The Shires

Above: Apartments at The Shires Top left: The popular Winchester home

filhI [eirr to arrange mortgages. Our aim is to make the buying process as straight forward as possible, especially for first ti me buyers who often find the process a little daunting. We even have a simple, step by step guide to buying a house, specifically designed to answer the questions of first time buyers, which is available free." Julie adds: "It's very rewarding watching people move into a new home - especially if it's the first one they have ever bought!"

For a free copy of the George Wimpey guide Buying your first home, a step-by-step guide send an email with your request to georgewimpey@corixa.co.uk or call 0117 949 3394 quoting the reference Link Magazine .

91 For further information on properties available at The Shires, please contact Julie and Katrina at the sales centre on 01793 726897 or visit them on any day of the week between 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Alternatively visit www.georgewimpey.co.uk

To find out more about living in Priory Vale, call the Priory Vale Visitor Centre on 0800 0725550 or pop in and see them at Junction 8 on Thamesdown Drive.

For the latest news on Priory Vale, visit ww,prioryvale.com

Next month... The Priory Vale Newsletter

10 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Traffic could limit town centre plans

Simple, flexible terms

Unless the centre of Swindon is made a lot more attractive and easier to get to, people living in the newer developments around the town will continue to travel elsewhere to shop and for entertainment. This message was clearly put at 100,000 sq metres, plus 3,000 more the West Swindon Area Forum on homes. She said key aims of the corn14 November to Peter James, the newly arrived Chief Executive of pany were to avoid piecemeal development, to demand high qualthe New Swindon Company. The company oversees the mas- ity design and to improve the ter plan for a new town centre and 'Swindon experience' for residents marketing the opportunities it of- and visitors. Freshbrook and Grange Park fers to property developers and councillor Peter Greenhalgh, employers. Rosemary Wells of the New drawing attention toannualtraffic Swindon Company reviewed the chaos that characterises the town seven development areas in the centre in December said, "a balcentreforthecouncillorsandmem- ance needs to be struck between bers of the public present at the the needs of pedestrians and moforum. She said that after years of torists. Unless traffic access, circugrowth around the town, particu- lation and parking is sorted out larly to the west and north, the soon, people will continue to pretown centre was in great need of a fer Bath, Reading or Cribbs Causecoherent and strategic plan which way." Changes in the early part of next would see a broader range of shops, new offices, homes and public open year will see developer interest in The Exchange - the area around spaces. Over a 20 year period the corn- the bus station, a planning applipany's scheme calls for an invest- cation for a new central library, ment of £1 billion which will see demolition of the former central 10,000 new jobs, 90,000 sq metres police station and announcements of new office space, more shops for the Granville Street developand leisure facilities covering ment off Commercial Road.

Stay as long as you like

More offices or town centre cultural space - what's best for old museum?

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One of Swindon town centre's few large spaces for art and cultural activity is in danger under council proposals to make way for offices for a one-stop advice centre, writes Lucy Proctor. Hundreds of people who use the type of space for advice giving. former Railway Museum on Far- When you feel down and out you ingdon Road, now called Commu- don't want to go into a visible, nity Crossroads, could be deprived high profile building. There are of a place to meet and practice. other places that could be used for On 14 December, the cabinet will advice." Martha argues that there is a discuss plans for the buildingpresently occupied on a short lease by severe lack of creative space in the the New Mechanics' Trust, town, and that rather than taking The Swindon Civic Trust and away the Crossroads building, the the independent Swindon Youth council should be concentrating Council are also based there and on diversity of activity rather than the large hall is used by jugglers, shutting off opportunity which dancers and skateboarders. It has 'showcases' Swindon. Chair of Swindon's Planning alsobeenusedbytheUniversityof Bath and the Festival of Literature. Committee Lisa Hawkes (Con., Martha Parry of the Trust ac- Highworth) expressed her respect cused the Conservative controlled for the work Martha and her colcouncil of using underhand tactics leagues do. Although she agreed to undermine community initia- that the former church is a special tives. "The cabinet report on the building, she did not offer any museum's future in April was pri- chance of a turnaround. "It would vate and confidential and steam- be nice to come to some happy rollered through. There was no medium. There are so many groups consultation and no transparency in Swindon looking for homes." in the decision making." Notwithstanding that the old The council want to convert the museum is the other end of the hall into two floors of offices to town from the proposed one-stop house the Citizens Advice Bureau, information point for council servSwindon Race and Equality Cen- ices, cabinet member for partnertre, Age Concern, Safer Swindon ships and community, coun Shop and the Law Centre. Andrew Bennett believes the old "We are arguing that it is wrong museum is an ideal place to bring to carve this building into offices," together Swindon's various advice said Martha. "It is not the right giving organisations.

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12 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Hope for healthy helpings at Swindon schools

ORCIW/e o

Swindon children can look forward to better school dinners after a healthy eating forum ended with agreement to work for high quality meals in all schools, reports Lucy Proctor.

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The best in Britain Lets Do Lunch, seminar co-or]anisers with The Link, were lamed as providers of Britain's pest school lunches at the BBC good Food Show on 24 Novem)er at the NEC. Lethbridge Primary School was :hosen as the Soil Association ood for Life School of the Year. The awards, sponsored by The Times, Highland Spring and the Soil Association, were presented )y Jamie Oliver.

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their food culture, and criticised food technology classes Campaigning for better lunchtime provision in that fail to teach Swindon, Jeanette Orrey and the Mayor of Swindon cookery.

She defended dinner ladies, of the problems that need to be pointing out that most are well addressed if children's health is to trained and should be seen as key be improved. Almost 28 per cent members of a school community. of children aged 2 to 10 in the UK They should be proud of their are overweight or obese, and one work; "I do not mind being called in five 4 to 18 year olds eat no fruit in an average week. a dinner lady," she said. The theme of rediscovering tra" We still have malnourishment, ditions and local producers ran and we have the opposite problem through the evening organised by of over-consumption," she said. The Link, the Soil Association and She warned that today's chilE indon school meal providers dren are eating their way into an Let's Do Lunch. early grave, and are unable to make Sonia Oliver of Coleshill Organic healthy choices even when given Farm said sourcing ingredients the option of fresh or organic oplocally could get children inter- tions. "These diseases are not visested in real food again, by show- ible until later life," she said of ing them where it comes from. heart disease, type two diabetes Hilary Pitts, and other health Group Director of issues likely to deChildren's Servvelop in unices for Swindon healthy children. Council, called for "They are storing an action plan to up problems for be in place by 2008 later life." detailing how Guests were 3\vindon schools treated to a typical school dinner will meet the Govcooked by Lets Do ernment's strict new nutritional Lunch, who prostandards. vide meals at But she highLethbridge and lighted the diffiKing William culties posed by Street Primary school funding, Schools. The w\ ith money meals are made ,tretched across a from fresh, local Hilary Pitts, massive range of ingredients, oraddressing the seminar school services ganic wherever and not ringfenced. She said the possible. With only 37 of Swinquestion before many don's 83 primary schools still ofheadteachers is, 'do I put a hot fering a hot meal, Lethbridge pumeal in front of the children or do pils are in a lucky minority. I put a teacher in front of them?' The meeting set up a task group Fiona Dickens, County Dietician of teachers, councillors, meal profor Public Heath at the Primary viders and local growers to disCare Trust, highlighted the scale cuss how to spread good practice.

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14 The Link Magazine â€˘ December 2005

Annual meeting for growing family centre

Centre for optimum health

The West Swindon Family Project holds its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 8 December, 11.30am, at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Over the last year the project has social services. With new responsibilities to set seen considerable physical changes to the house where it is based and, up family support services in the as reported in the November Link, community, there will be a lot of the functions of the project are go- work for them. Therefore people ingtochangeafterSwindonCoun- with a wide range of skills are cil's cabinet agreed it should be needed to join. To find out more about the one of the two new Children'sCentres to operate in West Swindon. project before the AGM, call Julie Set up in the early 1980s, the Batson 871303. Refreshments and a buffet will project is managed independently by a committee of residents, with be available before the meeting representatives from health and commences.

Visiting podiatrist/chiropodist Alison Deacon from Grange Park has branched out and opened a therapy centre in Groundwell Road. Under the name Optimum Health Services, the centre brings together a range of therapy services to promote a healthy lifestyle. Alison offers biomechanical treatments for back, hip, knee and foot pain as well as dealing with everyday problems like calluses and corns, nail-cutting and verrucas. She is being joined by a dietician, a personal fitness instructor, a reflexologist, a hypnotherapist and a make-up consultant. There are opportunities for other therapists to join Optimum Health and Alison is looking for someone to open a shop selling health related goods under the Optimum brand. Call her on 525524.

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Don't let festive stress overwhelm Christmas can be a difficult time for people for many reasons, not least from the pressure to provide the 'perfect Christmas' whilst costs can spiral out of control. At a time like this some may Families come under stress as different generations come to- benefit from talking to a trained gether, spending more time than counsellor who can offer them the usual in each other's company. space to freely express thoughts Those on their own can feel lonely and feelings withoutjudging them. If the onset of the Christmas seaas they are bombarded with imson fills you with dread, A Time ages of happy families. People can be left feeling anx- To Talk and Charles Miller offer ious, stressed, depressed or out of counselling services. See their advertisements on the control â€” maybe turning to alcohol opposite page. or other substances to escape.

Could you be a Samaritan? 24/7 x 365 - 18,000 trained Samaritan volunteers nationwide are waiting for the call that could save someone's life; 90 of them belong to Swindon and District Samaritans, writes Martin Forbes. People call Samaritans for many reasons; maybe they are in distress and despair, perhaps they are going through some kind of crisis in their lives, some may even feel life itself is just too difficult to cope with. Whatever the reason, Samaritans are there to listen in total confidence, accept without judgement and offer supible to arrange duties to fit in with port for as long as it's needed. There are three main ways peo- each volunteer's lifestyle. There is a careful selection procple contact Samaritans. Most of our calls are by telephone. Over ess, starting with a simple one-to25,000 callers last year contacted one interview. Initial training sessions run over 6 to 8 weeks (evening our Swindon branch alone. Our e-mail service: jo@ sessions and a couple of Satursamaritans.orghad over 1,000 con- days), followed by further training a few months on. tacts, many from the young. At the beginning of your SamariLastly, our centre at Curtis Street is open for those who prefer to tans career you work closely with a mentor to help guide you through speak face to face. Is there a typical volunteer? your first few months. When you Absolutely not. Volunteers come do get to take calls, rest assured from all walks of life: some in full you will always be with another time employment, some part-time, Samaritan; there will always be some self-employed, some retired, someone there to support you some in the forces. Men and when you need it. If what you have read sounds women, young and old, each bring their own personality, style and interesting and you would like to find out more, please call us on qualities. So do you think you have what 537373 or write to: it takes? Could you spare the time The Director, Swindon and Disto spend 4 to 5 hours a week and trict Samaritans, 6 Curtis Street, one over-night session every 5 to 6 Swindon SN1 5JU, and we'll take it weeks? We always try to be flex- from there.

The Link Magazine • December 2005

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16 The Link Magazine â€˘ December 2005

Freshbrook freshened up by youth Twenty five youngsters from Freshbrook Church spent a couple of hours on 31 October giving their community a treat by tidying it up. Following publicity of the initiative in the October Link, church youth work Dave Davison was delighted to be contacted by Swindon Council youth worker tenants' warden team leader Becky Dudley who offered the services of three wardens and all the necessary equipment including litter pickers and gloves. The volunteers walked two routes from Freshbrook Church to Greendown in Grange Park collecting so much rubbish in two hours that bags had to be collected later by the wardens in their van. Before setting out Chantelle Shand said, "we want to do this for the good of the community and Pickers at the ready. Young people from Freshhrook Church mouth club with their we're going to have fun at the same leaders and tenants' wardens ready to clean up Freshbrook on 31 October time." Leah Staples added, "some bits are a credit to them and they are a Litter in your patch? of our community are very messy. joy to work with. I'd like to thank The Link knows of individuals Young people care about their everyone who was involved on and groups across West and North neighbourhood and want to do the day." Swindon who quietly take it upon After a hard morning's work the themselves to keep their neighsomething about it." Dave said there had been a great group went to Pizza Hut for a well bourhoods tidy. deal of positive feedback from the deserved lunch. But unless the council tax payer community. "Lots of people have Dave is hoping to organise fur- is willing to stump up, its unrealissaid what a tremendous job the ther litter picks and next time the tic to say the council should do young people did. They were re- group may turn their attention to more, whilst the police are not ally enthusiatic to do something graffiti with the help of the local bothered about litter laws when positive for their area; their efforts Beat Officer Paul Matthews. they have trouble keeping a lid on anti-social behaviour. But is it unrealistic to ask if people from an area can or should HAYDON WICK PARISH COUNCIL band together to ban litter? Let The Link know of your efforts and if you want publicity for a local MAINTENANCE OF OPEN SPACES & neighbourhood clean up.

The Friends of Peatmoor Lagoon hold an annual Easter litter pick around the lagoon. This year they are organising a second tidy up around Pea tmoor Lagoon on Sunday 4 December, loam to 12noon, in conjunction with the Peatmoor Community Woodland open morning. Details on page 43. From Adrian Balch, Rushey Platt I was embarrassed to read the views of an American living in our town about the litter problem. During the 1950s and '60s, Swindon residents were proud of their town and always either used the litter bins or took their rubbishhome. Today, many people, particularly the younger generation, have not been taught by their parents or at school about dropping litter. Furthermore, they actually drop litter on purpose using the, 'if we don't do it, it'll put someone out of a job' excuse! This is absolutely disgraceful behaviour and of course they get away with it, because we have no police on the

streets to enforce the littering laws. When was the last time you heard of anyone getting fined for dropping litter? There are plenty of litter bins in the town, but people are too lazy or careless to use them. If a lawabiding citizen, like myself, sees these crimes being committed and tries to apprehend the culprit, all you get is verbal abuse if not more! If there was more police presence on foot patrol in the town and the public saw them addressing these 'petty crimes', then it would perhaps make them think twice before committing anything more serious?

Keeping the lagoon litter free

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the UK's leading cash & carry wholesaler is looking to recruit part-time check-out operators and a full-time canteen cook Applications should be made in writing to: Mr P Kent, Batley's Cash & Carry Frankland Road, Blagrove Industrial Estate West Swindon SN5 8TF Batley s do not discriminate against men or women whatever their race, religion or age

Sarah Fulkerson's views on pride in Swindon and litter, in the November Link, struck a chord with several readers.

Amelia Claydon-Smith from Grange Park wrote: I was pleased to read Sarah's comments because it highlighted exactly what the problem is with some people. They have become so used to the rubbish in our town that they just don't see it or don't want to. I agree that we need many more litter bins; it is unbelievable that there are so few. But they will then need to be emptied regularly. We also need a radical change in how we view litter as I believe it is everyone's responsibility. It is not just up to Swindon Council to clear up after us â€” for them to keep areas litter free on a regular basis is an impossible task. I pick up litter on Hay Lane and the adjacent cycle paths and the wood behind my house. I do this on a regular basis; it does not take long. But I am sick and tired of people dumping rubbish. In the last month I have picked up a bag full of heavy bottles, a car battery, plastic sheeting, and there is a regular offender who empties the contents of his/her car out into a carrierbag every Saturday and throws it out on to the grass verge. It can be extremely disheartening but I keep going in the hope that others will get the message and take some responsibility beyond their own front gate. We are lucky in West Swindon to have so much open green space. It would be even better if it was not a dumping ground. We all have to do our bit and pick it up. I don't want my children playing amongst beer cans and worse. I was always taught to not drop litter and take it home. Let's face it, it is not that hard to do and saves everyone work.

FOOTPATHS IN THE PARISH OF HAYDON WICK TENDERS ARE INVITED FOR THE ABOVE CONTRACT TO COMMENCE ON 1 APRIL 2006

Are we proud of litter?

The Link Magazine • December 2005

Taking the Hump

Trotter's three wheeler on offer to charity events

Are Christmas presents a problem? What do we give someone who gets our goat? Are we fed up with festivities? Here are a few thoughts of a different kind, writes Rosemary Power. Last February I went to a second wedding. The couple, both youngish and widowed, had the full complement of household goods, complete with everything their teenagers needed. So, as a wedding present, someone gave them a goat. They also got an emergency medical kit and could have had a dry toilet. These gifts came from international charities. Born and bred in East Africa, the goat is now supporting a family. It provides milk for the children, manure to grow better crops and, when it has kids, one will be taken to assist another family. How would you like to give some chickens or an ox this Christmas? Oxfam, Cafod, Christian Aid and a number of other charities can help you to give a whole farmyard, or a well of clean water, the contents of a child's schoolbag, a medical kit or 50 trees.

Kerry Eagles from Castle Dore showed she definitely is not a plonker when she guessed the exact value of Trotters Independent Traders' a Reliant Robin van. Her figure of £3,2580 was spot on and she is now the proud owner of a replica of DelBoy and Rodney's car. dodgy as the original Kerry and her husas it recently passed band Shane, both fans its MOT and Shane, of Only Fools and Horses who runs Icon Cars, won the car in a comhas been driving it petition run by UK around Swindon. He Gold in August and are said, "I'd like to see it offering to lend the car put to use for charity. 1 to local charities for 4 It's such a crowd fund-raising events. puller; everybody k In November the ;, stops and stares at it." bright yellow van made Shane is also thinkan appearance at ing about offering adGreenbridge fora Chilvertising space on the dren in Need event and van. was also the star in the r Shane and Kerry, with their children Lau en, Connor, Kieron To book it for a School of Tan charity function, call Shane or Dance's recent Wyvern show when formance of 'Car Wash.' The vehicle is obviously not as Kerry on 886217. it took centre stage for their per-

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Two West primaries in weak positions Swindon Council's cabinet took decisions in November which may see the closure of two schools, and the removal of over 600 surplus places in primary schools across West Swindon. Children working together. The Mayor of Swindon Ray Fisher with, front left, Alexander Dickins from Freshbrook Primary, Decants Chambers from Toothill and Timothy Rabbitt of Windmill Hill at an Armistice Date exhibition of work carried out as part of the Their Past Your Future Mobile Media project during the Autuinn

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On 1 November the cabinet confirmed an earlier decision to close Windmill Hill and Freshbrook primaries and build a new 1.5 form entry school on the Freshbrook School site and provide a new Toothill Primary School. A six week pre-statutory consultation started on 8 November and the cabinet will consider the outcomes on 18 January and decide whether to proceed to a statutory consultation on the proposal. This would last until 2 March 2006. A final decision on turning three primaries into two will be made by the independent School Organisation Committee on 15 March. The futures of Salt Way and Shaw Ridge Primary Schools are more advanced. On 16 November the cabinet received the report on pre-statutory consultations to close Salt Way and expand Shaw Ridge and agreed to move to the six week statutory consultation on the plan which will end on 3 January. The School Organisation Committee will then decide on 11 January whether Salt Way closes at the end of the summer term.

Issues not resolved Despite the decision to close Salt Way Primary School, Swindon Council has not yet answered so many questions put by parents and governors over the last 11 months. For example, what is the effect on catchment areas going to be? Will children from Grange Park still be able to go to Tregoze Primary if families in The Prinnells live closer? How much extra traffic will there be on roads around Shaw Ridge and along Ridge Green itself? Will pedestrian safety problems be sorted out? Then of course there are the land development issues. The council's intention for the Salt Way site are still secret. What do they have in mind for the Shaw Ridge site when a completely new school is built for around £5 million, more housing next to The Bramptons? Steve Spence, Salt Way chair of governors has published the questions at www.swindonlink.com Mail your comments and concerns to: publisher@swindonlink .com

Hreod lads are reading champs Boys from Hreod Parkway have joined forces with celebrities and sports stars like footballers Rio Ferdinand and Ashley Cole and World Wrestling Entertainment superstars John Cena, Shelton Benjamin and Rey Mysterio to promote reading. Bucking the trend of declining interest in reading, fifteen boys from Years 7 to 11 have been presented with bronze and silver awards from National Literacy Trust's Reading Champions initiative. The project celebrates men and boys who are passionate about with certificates and a book of their reading and are keen to encourage choice on 7 November, after visitothers to be positive about books. ing Borders to collect £500 worth The Hreod boys were presented of books for the school library.

The Link Magazine • December 2005

Taw Hill school good already Only a year after opening, and having transferred from mobiles to a permanent building last January, St Francis Church of England Primary School, Taw Hill has been rated as a good school by Ofsted. The inspectors put this down to provements more accessible and a • the way the headteacher and stronger role by governors in holddeputy have led the arrangements ing the school to account. for setting up the new school, enHeadteacher Clive Westall said suring children, teachers and staff he was delighted with the positive settle in; impression made on the inspec• the progress children have made tors. "It has been an eventful year. since the school opened; Everybody has worked very hard • childrens' good behaviour and to set up the school, both in the the ways they help each other; temporary classrooms and when • good teaching and interesting we moved into the permanent lessons. buildings. I'd like to thank all the The inspectors say there are no staff and also our children, as well significant weaknesses, but would the parents who have been very like to see more sharing of good supportive." practice by leading teachers, makCurrently the 240 place school ing information on school im- has 172 children. In November, new hangings were unveiled depicting the "I am" sayings of Jesus, made by children working with artists from No Added Sugar. Headteacher Clive Westall with, from left, Tyrel Jarvis, Jessica Neate, Dhruv Chaturvedi, Vicky Egerton, under the hangings port railing 'I am the life, I am the living water and I am the li,,ht.' The work was dedicated at an assemblii held in the school corridor

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Room for improvement at Ridgeway An Ofsted inspection of Ridgeway School has judged that children are receiving a satisfactory education. The findings of a 1999 inspec- teachers and other staff. They tion rated the school as good, but would like to see pupils have more inspection regimes have since been say in how the school can be improved. They were impressed by made much tougher. In a letter to pupils, the inspec- the range of outside school activitors say they enjoyed observing ties in sport, drama, music and the classes and talking to pupils. They Duke of Edinburgh's award. The report also notes that the explain that, although the school has many strengths, there is room behaviour of most learners in and out of lessons is satisfactory and for improvement. Whilstexaminationandnational that their development of moral test results are good, the inspec- values is satisfactory and is begintors believe the school can do even ning to improve. Attendance is better and acknowledge that the around the national average and joint acting headteachers are mak- the school provides satisfactory value for money. ing improvements, Teachers do well in the classAlso downgraded room, but they could help pupils make more progress by improv- St Joseph's Roman Catholic ing the way work is marked and School, rated as good in 2000, has how homework is used. The in- also been judged as overall satisspectors also recommend that factory because the Sixth Form teachers set clearer targets so that was graded at this level. School governors have asked pupils know how to improve the Ofsted to make separate judgequality of work. The inspectors say that children ments for the Sixth Form and Years are well looked after in school and 7 to 11. www.ofsted.gov.uk there are good relationships with

20 The Link Magazine • December 2005

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Since being featured in the May Link, Freshbrook Playmates parent and toddler group has seen numbers increase dramatically. Organiser I. ! r. Caroline Bell, said, a = rA "there was a fantastic response to the story and the group has been getting every stronger week." it The increase d membership has t allowed new toys and equipment to be purchased. ,. Caroline's own parents help to run Caroline Bell, second right, with playmates the sessions and New members are always welthe atmosphere is relaxed, even though it can get a bit noisy for comed and can be sure that they will be introduced to the other them. Playmates recently held a Hal- mums. Playmates meet at loween party to raise money for FreshbrookCommunityCentreon the mother and baby unit at Great Thursdays from 9.30am to 12 noon. For details call Linda Tyson on Western Hospital and they are 536772. planning a Christmas part y .

catch the 54. 550, 55A - operated by Stagecoach. call 01793 521 415 and select 1 for customs, services.

Living in Grange Park with four growing children, Donna knew there was a great need for such a facility to the west of the town. She said, "it's been a dream for many years and when my youngest went to school, it was time to do it." She waited for two years for the perfect venue to become available in the old Anchor Butter factory at Blagrove. Donna's right hand woman Morag Patrick, from Shaw, added that the site has good parking facilities and is easy to reach by bus. At Kidz Aloud, children up to 12 years old can enjoy a huge, safe indoor multi-level play park including a four-lane astraslide, a t wisting spiral slide and a dropslide. There is also a football / basketball court which has proven very popular with older children. Under 5s have their own separate play area.

The cafe serves freshly prepared food and drinks. There are com-

fortable sofas for adults and newspapers and magazines available while the children play. Donna said, "parents are important to us. They need to be comfortable and able to relax over a coffee, whilst keeping an eye on the children." Donna and Morag pride themselves on their attention to detail and safety. The dropslide was specially designed for Kidz Aloud and is manned at all times. As mums who have taken their childen to similar attractions elsewhere they were also conscious that facilities like toilets have always to be clean to entice parents to return. Regular toddler group sessions are planned, as well as storytelling, activity mornings and a twins' club. Three large rooms are also available for party hire. There is a special rate for childminders and a membership scheme is to be introduced soon. See the advert left to locate Kidz Aloud or call Donna on 524646.

The Link Magazine • December 2005

Avis help group's drive for storage Nutkins toddler group, which meets at the Upper Shaw Farm centre, will soon be able to buy a new secure metal shed to store large equipment thanks to a donation of £250 from Avis Car Hire. Dawn Higham, chair of the on offer, including arts and crafts, are welcome to come along and group, explained that the sheds free play, outdoor activities, dress- join in. Throughout the summer are as old as the group itself, and at ing up, singing, puzzles and books. there were themed days and extra 15 years have seen better days. During the year, each child re- equipment was hired to suit the Once they have dry storage, the ceives a birthday card and present older children. committee plan to provide more and this is included in the price of For details call Dawn Higham soft play equipment and specially £1.50 per session. In December on 321108. designed chairs suitable for chil- there will be a Christmas party dren with special needs. with a visit from Father ChristSanta to call in Places are available now for new- mas. Father Christmas will be visiting born to school age children. Abonusforparentsofolderchil- Under 5s Storytime at the West Nutkins meet on Tuesday and Fri- dren is that the group meets all Swindon Library on Friday 9 Deday mornings from 9.30am to year round, including school holi- cember. 10.30am. followed by a 11.30am. A variety of activities are days. Older brothers and sisters Christmas snack and craft activites. Really motoring at Nutkins. Avis manager Rob Mattock presents Dawn Higham 1 commt nndLei ;t eezt ,t tl 1 a che11

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22 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Masked Valentine's Ball Friday 10 February 2006, DeVere Hotel For the very first time, Age Concern Swindon are organising a special night to enjoy the company of relatives or friends, an opportunity to celebrate older age, but of course to have fun as well. The evening starts with a champagne reception followed by a four course dinner, live band The Birds and the Luke Skywalker' disco. A fabulous raffle, an excellent auction and surprises are also promised. Tickets are £30 per person or a table for 10 people at £300. Companies are invited to sponsor a table. Give the dull month of February an injection of fun by supporting a local charity. For details call Mel Richards on 692166 or mail: mel.richards@ageconcernswindon.org.uk

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Funds for fishermen Customers of The Trawlerman at the West Swindon Centre have contributed over £250 to the £5,000 raised by company operations director Martin West in aid of the Fisherman's Mission. Martin, right, completed a fundraising cycle ride from Lands sh & End to John O'Groats in July, takT ing just ten days to cover the 997 miles. On the way, he visited f' twenty fish and chip shops which, like The Trawlerman, hold the Sea Fish Quality Friers Award. + The trip went to plan and was completed in the time set, despite an accident in which the support van was written off. Fortunately, nobody was hurt. Members of the team funded the trip themselves so every penny donated has gone directly to help support the families and widows Trawlerman customers u ho made of fishermen. donations to his fundraising efMartin would like to thank all fort.

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The magic of Peter Pan is coming to the Wyvern Theatre and were offering a family ticket to the pantomime on Tuesday 13 December. veteran of TVs Brookside, as the This is the first time JM Barnes i' dastardly Hook. In the lead role, ' classic story has been staged at ^• + ^!! instead of a girl, last year's Wyvern the Wyvern and producer Daryl Jack in the Beanstalk, Daniel Boys ?^ Back promisesaspectacularshow, returns as the boy. Peter. with a fantastic stage set and lots See the advert below for tickets of flying. "Peter Pan is the most -- or visit the newly designed web site: popular of all the pantomimes. The www.wyverntheatre.org.uk children love the idea that they could fly and in the theatre, adults To win a family ticket for four, can believe that they never left " tell us what the crocodile swalchildhood. lows towards the end of the "The performance will be con .'' stor y • Send y ourentriestoThe tinuous without any blackouts; the Link, 70 Basepoint, Rivermead set will revolve from the nursery Drive, Swindon SN5 7EX by scene, to the island, the Indian Monday 5 December. encampment and pirate ship. It Friends really. Davie/ Boys as Peter really is going to be magical." and Steven Pinder who plays Hook The show stars Steven Pinder, a

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(

Tel: (01793) 611869 ^

Two of the town's attractions take on the mantle of Victorian England during December. Steam, the Museum of the Great Western Railway, becomes a giant grotto of Victorian memories on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December. Enjoy the evocative romance of the age of steam recreated within a unique festive atmosphere.Take a ride on Santa's Steam Train and meet one of Santa's helpers. Former railway workers will be telling some unique Christmas stories. and there will be a production of The Happy Prince - a Christmas story about a magical friendship. There's a chance to buy some unusual Christmas gifts, crafts and foodstuffs in the Steam shop. Steam will be open from 1 Cam to 5pm on both days and will be offering reduced admission prices: £2 adults; £1 children: under 5s free. Santa's Steam Train will run from 11am to 3.30pm, extra fee applies. www.swindon.gov.uk/steam Lydiard House will once again be decorated in traditional festive greenery, collected from the park. by floristry students and members of local flower clubs. School children will also be making special decorations for the Lydiard Christmas tree. See how our Victorian ancestors celebrated Christmas from Saturday 3 to Friday 23 December. Sunday afternoon visitors will be treated to live music from 2.30pm: 4th guitarist Stephen Seapey 11th harpist Christine Kinder 1 8th Purton Handbell Ringers Admission charges apply. Details from 770401. The house will be closed from 24 to 26 December.

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scandal a new meaning. Wilmot, grandson of Sir John St John of Lydiard. was notorious in the court of Charles II for his outrageous behaviour, hard drinking, and turn of words which earned him the reputation of being England's first published pornographer. As the film's promotional strapline says. 'he didn't resist temptation, he pursued it.' See Rochester's portait and learn more about Swindon's lecherous son at Lydiard House. Flight. actor Jon Preece in front of Rochesters portrait at the Swindon Festival of Literature 2003

Lydiard's lakes revealed The landscape of Lydiard Park has changed dramatically since early October, when the ÂŁ5 million restoration project began.

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Lakeside at Lydiard Coun Nick Martin and Keeper of the House, Sarah Finch-Crisp The trees, scrub and under- coming an ever more important growth of 50 years have been replace for Swindon.' Work has started on a five year moved to reveal the extent of the lower lake and the fetid swamp project to remove or coppice old which was the upper lake is also and damaged trees, to be replaced by 400 native trees and a further being cleaned out. Visitors can now start to see the 11,000 in two new native woodgrandeur of the St John family's lands within the park. View the work and see the plans country home in its heyday. The lake bed will remain a muddy when visiting the Christmas decoragash for some months until a new ti ons in the house, see page 23. www.lydiardpark.org.uk water control system is completed next year when The house and its lake the lake will be alfrom an 1808 engra ving lowed to fill up by John Nash again. Chairman of the Lydiard Project Boar Nick Martin said he was impressed by the changes. "Its beenwonderfulto ' see the plans and all the explana ^ _ tions turned into ''reality. "Lydiard is be

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Art puts heart into a hospital Kerrie Lines, a nurse in the theatre unit at the Great Western Hospital, has reacted to the recent publicity about spending on art in hospitals and says there is positive benefit to patient care and recovery from interesting artistic surroundings. She writes: World-renowned Swindon artist Ken White has completed a substantial amount of work for the GWH and sees the benefits of bringing the community into the hospital through art. HisworkforRichard Branson and his Virgin companies has earned acclaim for his now famous murals and paintings. In early November Ken unveiled his most recent works: two fascinating scenes in the children's recovery area of the theatre department. Talking with him as he worked. Ken likened himself to Michelangelo and the painters of old painting for the job. Never far from his mind are the people he is painting for — the community, the patients and the staff. Describing his motivation, he says. "most of my work is done before I start painting. I have to make sure it is okay because I'm not here everyday, the users are. do the work cheap because I think it is for a good cause." This view lead him to paint 'Coate Water' a colourful mural found at the GWH assisted entrance. "People love it. because they know it," said Ken. "They know the town as it used to be. It provides a bit of identity when they come in." This sense of identity is invaluable to recuperation and health. The benefits of bringing the community into the hospital and breaking down the barriers of illness and health have been documented in

medical journals. There has been positive feedback that Ken's work is succeeding along these lines. The murals stimulate conversation and bring back memories for patients and staff alike. Likewise two new murals in the children's recovery area - a beach scene and a mythical castle image, full of hints and references from Swindon - provide a calming atmosphere. They are also a tool that staff can use to distract children from their situation. Reports from recovery staff are already very encouraging.

With hopes of exhibiting his numerous railway images and paintings at the GWH, Ken really is attempting to bring the local community into the hospital through his art. Editors note. , Ken wants to make /t c/ear that accusations in the local media that he has been paid thousands for his work are very wide of the mark. Lydiard Park mural unveiled Ken's newest work, a movable mural depicting Lydiard House and its park, again full of key references to the town's history. was unveiled at Intel on 21 November. Look out for the photo next month.

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PEATMOOR

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The evening will include: The piping in of the Haggis, Traditional Scottish 3 course dinner. Piper. Band & Dancing. Arrival 7.30pm. dinner 8.00pm. disco until 12.30am, carriages 1.00am Tickets £20.00 per person (booked in advance) Dress code Formal. Kilts optional.

Saturday 10th December LIVE COMEDY with Pete Le Feet Saturday 24th December CHR i rviAS EVE DISCO _,OK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS! Join us for

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Exhibitions

Thursday 1st to Saturday 3rd,

Saturday 3rd to Friday 16th Paintings by members of the Swindon Artist Society. West Swindon Library Throughout December Embroidered Silk Bowls. Exhibition by local textile artist Kathleen Danswan, as featured in the November issue of The Worfd of Embroidery. The bowls are all made from hand dyed silk, machine embroidered then embellished with beads and sequins, seebe%w. West Swindon Library

7.30pm & 2.30pm Sat matinee Hot Mikado. Wroughton based Opus One perform this updated version of the Gilbert and Sullivan opera set in the 1940s with music transmuted from gospel. blues and swing . Tickets £6.50. Ca/f 855566. E//endune Ha// Wroughton Opus One players Richard Abrams with Connie Harman ^a 4

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Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socia/s in Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732

Ten years of teaching!

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Christmas!

Friday 2nd, 8pm The Yardbirds. The band that launched Clapton. Beck and Page. and were a major influence on Led Zeppelin. Founder members Chris Dreja and drummerJim McCarty are joined by Jerry Donahue on guitar. John Idan on bass and harmonica player Billy Boy Miskimmin. Their sound remains distinctively that of The Yardbirds. £16. Arts Centre Saturday 3rd, 7.45pm Ga Ga: The Ultimate Queen Tribute. With an even bigger. better light show. a sound system to match and with audience participation encouraged throughout, the show promises to be a 'kind of magic'. £15 Wyvern Sunday 11th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series: Oboeworks. Four of the country's leading chamber musicians, who all work regularly as soloists, come together for a programme of Mozart. Schubert, Britten. £10 (free for accompanied children under 14). Arts Centre Monday 12th, 8pm Dylan Project. Four of Britain's most talented folk rock musicians and a distinctive singer present an exhilarating tribute to one of the greatest post-war songwriters. Bob Dylan. £15 Arts Centre Monday 12th, 2.15pm University of the Third Age Orchestra and the U3A Merribells present a concert afternoon. Call 642634 for details. U3A members free, non-members £2. E//endune Ha//, Wroughton Tuesday 13th, 8pm The Foundations. Formed in the mid 1960s. the group quickly found success with 'Baby, Now That I've Found You..., before gaining world wide recognition with 'Build Me Up Buttercup'. A set full of soul R&B classics, as well as all The Foundations' hits. £17 Arts Centre

To 12th January This Foreign Land: photography by Roger Vlitos celebrating the astonishing cultural history embodied in the Wiltshire landscape. Free. Great Western Hospital Until 3rd December Drawing Power An exhibition by artists who teach, to celebrate The Big Draw: the national campaign which aims to get everyone drawing. Wyvern Tuesday 6th to Sunday 8th January Peter Pan Tales of a boy who never grew up, told through posters, book illustrations and engravings and reflecting a variety of styles from the Victorian era to the present day. to coincide with the panto production of Peter Pan. Wyvern To Friday 23rd In and Around Swindon. A tribute to Peter Burton who saw so much to paint in the Swindon area. Peter's work demonstrates a fresh approach to well-loved scenes such as Buscot, Lechlade, Coate Water. Lydiard and the Ridgeway. Arts Centre

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Dance Thursday 1 st to Friday 2nd, 7.30p m Magic Moments presented by Bobbi's Academy of Dance. For the first ti me incorporating ballet, tap and jazz along with freestyle. hip hop and musical theatre. £8.50 Wyvern

Also at:

Mea^way

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Manningion

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Swindon Wide Whits Talks

NATASHA GOSLING I NDEPENDENT HAIRSTYLIST

CREATE A NEW IMAGE FOR 2006 at John Samuel Hair Salon 76 Bridge Street, Swindon Tel:01793 534299 ..., :^

nev.

Call for free consultation. Monday and late nights available

Have you got an Endowment policy? Do you have a policy shortfall? If so, did you know you may be entitled to compensation?

Thursday 1st, 8pm Pulsar 'Live Microphone' Performance Poetry Evening Relax, listen or better still, read your own poem or poems of choice. Free. Goddard Arms, C/yffe Pypard For details call 875941 Saturday 3rd, 10.30am to 12pm Flower arranging with candles: demonstration by Symphony of Flowers. Card making demonstration by Craftley Yours. Free. West Swindon Library Monday 5th, 7.30pm Richard Jefferies' Society slide show presented by Ray Morse. A selection of slides picturing outings, buildings and places associated with Jefferies. All are welcome. For more information ca// 530520. Free entry. Arts Centre Wednesday 21st, 7.30pm Tootleabrook WI A Trip Down Memory Lane with Stan and Peggy Byers. Tooth/// Community Centre. Formore information ca//Jean Brock

Children & Family events Thursday 1st, 7.30pm Scamp Theatre: Private Peaceful Shocked by how many young men were shot for cowardice in the First World War, Michael Morpurgo's award-winning story relives the life of a soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. Private Peaceful looks back at his childhood in Devon; the accident which killed his father; his adventures with Molly, the love of his life: and the battles and injustices of war that brought him to the front line. This touching Bristol Old Vic dramatisation is suitable for age eight and above.£8 adults, children £6, family ticket £25 Arts Centre

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Theatre Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th, 7.30pm Stags and Hens Presented by Old Town Theatre Company, Willy Russell's comedy of wedding-eve nerves is set in the Gents' and Ladies' loos of a tacky Liverpool night-club, where Dave and Linda. unbeknownst to each other, are holding their stag and hen parties. £6. Arts Centre

Comedy Saturday 3rd, 8pm

E-mail: victoria.h@virgin.net

For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yarns and Patterns We'll also gladl y order anything else you need.

Dolls houses E miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items

In the Stable A great selection of local pottery. Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world

Mon to Sat 10 to 5• Sun 11 to 5

Jason Byrne: The Lovely Goat Show Ireland's most exciting young comedian bowls over his audiences with his unstoppable energy and incendiary performances. His rising international profile means he performs regular sell-out shows from Dublin and Edinburgh, to New York, Melbourne, Hong Kong and Singapore. £10. Arts Centre Friday 2nd, 7.30pm Jethro The Cornishman is back! With his distinctive and unique style of comedy, Jethro is one of the bestknown entertainers in the UK today. Definitely one for the adults! Don't miss out. £17 Oasis

Saturday 3rd to Saturday 24th, 10am to 5pm, Sundays 2pm to 5pm) Country House Christmas. See the State Rooms decked out in traditional festive greenery and decorations to create the intimate atmosphere of a Victorian family Christmas with free quiz trail for children. Enjoy festive live music on Sundays 4th. 11th and 18th from 2.30pm. Norma/admission charges. Lydiard House Saturdays 3rd, 10th & 17th Sundays 4th, 11th 18th Swindon and Cricklade Railway Santa Specials. For details see advert on page 23 Sunday 4th, 10am to 4pm Celebration Crafts and Gifts. Learn how to make your own wreath, homemade cards, decorations and small gifts. For adults and children aged 5 upwards. £30adu/t, £20 child Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th, 10am to 5pm Victorian Christmas. Get in the festive mood with a special Victorian themed Christmas weekend. Gift stalls, entertainment and the Santa Special steam train. Adu/ts£2 child £1, under5s free. STEAM

Or it teember Saturday 10th & 24th. 10am to 5pm Meet the Railway Workers Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers as they bring stories of the steam age to life with practical demonstrations and accounts of their experiences. Norma/ admission prices. STEAM Saturday 10th December to Sunday 8th January Peter Pan. See page 23

Christmas Music Sunday 4th, 5pm & 8pm Kentwood Christmas Cracker The Kentwood Show Choir present their annual Christmas Festival. The choir will be joined by the Aldbourne Band for a feast of traditional and secular Christmas music. £9. Wyvern

Saturday 10th. 6pm to 8pm Carols by Candlelight. An oldfashioned 21st Century evening in Sunday 11th. 11am - 4pm Annual Bash and Slash. Wiltshire the farmyard and the old cowshed, Wildlife Trust's answerto a Christmas with all the right seasonal ingredients party. Fell some trees at the River to eat, drink and sing together. A Ray restoration site, build bonfires, roaring fire to keep you warm, fire enjoy mulled wine, baked parsnips juggling, and cart loads of carols. No and cake. Directions. walk along the need to book. Dress warmly and bring cycle way/footpath from West/ea to a torch. £3 adult £1.50 child Lower Barnfie/d or park on Barnfie/d Road Shaw Farm and take the path to West/ea across Monday 12th, 7.30pm the River Ray footbridge. Wear o/d Carols and Capers 2005 presented by Maddy Prior, below, and the clothes and stout shoes. Friday 17th to Sunday 18th, 7.30pm Carnival Band. A unique celebratory A Christmas Story. New College show of Christmas music on medieval Youth Theatre students entertain with and modern instruments with familiar a seasonal comedy piece in panto and not-so-familiar festive fare, from style. £750. Arts Centre. (Tickets The Holly and the Ivy and I Saw from New Youth Theatre on 0800 Three Shipsto secular carols, dance tunes, and specially composed songs 7810515 during office hours) from their new album. £9. Wyvern

Studley Grange

Open daily Summer: 1 Oam - 6pm Winter : 9am - dusk

k cPeople%ta ft "'td. Pain+ Mugs, Mates and bowls that are ON useable.

West lea Primary School Saturday 3rd, 1.30pm

Christmas Fayre Moredon Infants School Wednesday 7th, 3pm - 5pm

Christmas Dance Even Swindon Community Centre Saturday 17th December, 8pm Live music performed by Nik Nak £3. Tickets Tel: 420495

Christmas Fayre Lawns Community Centre, Guildford Avenue Saturday 10th, 10am to 3pm In aid of Swindon Cats Protection Moloney & Mclnery Schools of Irish Dance Family Night Christmas Dance Wednesday 28th December.8pm Grange Drive Sports Centre, Stratton St Margaret With Maurice Rielly and the Exit Showband, supported by Riky Denham. Irish dance exhibitions. Tickets £8. Tet- 642368

i erris photo graphics studio natural contemporary family and childrens portraits.

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Christmas Bazaar

Christmas Fayre

A FAMILY DAY OUT THAT! Fu It OF INTEREST AND A GREAT VENUE f6i, ..,;THDAY PARTIES.

Canal Walk To Thursday 22nd December An exciting range of original gift ideas. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine and traditional German beers. Crowdys Hill School. Jefferies Ave. Sat 3rd Dec, 10.30am to 12pm Father Christmas plus stalls with gifts. tombolas.raffles,silent auction. refreshments, cakes

Tel:01793 852400 info:studleygrange.co.uk

German Christmas Market

Season tickets available - Full disabled access Tailored educational visits 'Group visits welcome Large gift shop - Free parking for cars and coaches

Fundraising

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gar'don & Ia4 ure park

Film Wednesday 14th, 7.45pm Only Human (15) An energetic and fast-moving farce from Spain, in which a young woman brings her Palestinian fiance home to meet her Jewish family. Subtitled SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members on/y. It is possible to join on any film evening.

SANTA GLAVS COMES TO ROVES FARM! Sevenhampton, Nr Swindon. Tel: 763939

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Steam - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane. Tel: 771080 Swindon & Cricklade Railway. Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time andprice with the venue

Also visit Mary and Joseph in the stable, join our nativity play with live animal props and Christmas craft half hour on: Sat 3rd & Sun 4th December Fri 9th, Sat 10th & Sun 11th December Fri 16th, Sat 17th, Sun 18th, Mon 19th, Wed 21st to Fri 23rd December inclusive 10.30am - 4.00pm www.rovesfarm.co.uk

;t s

SwfrdGr Wide

Discover another part of Swindon The range and quality of Old Town's shops and facilities is unequalled throughout Swindon — even the town centre can't match it forvariety. Everything you need is there —from hardware to hairdressers and pine to pets. Now the Christmas lights have been turned on, the experience will be even more special; it's a great place to find unusual gifts. For those living outside the town, or in the newer areas of Swindon, it's well worth the journey. You can use the Wroughton park-and-ride or park in Old Town itself. If you shop at the Co-op you can

park free of charge, and then

browse other shops closeby. Wood Street is home to many individual businesses: Deacon's. of course, is one of the oldest and best-known shops in the town,

highly regarded for quality watches, fine china and glass. Juvals has an interesting selection of formal women's wear and

party gear, and closeby is Blaylocks shoe shop where traditional serv-

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Tel: 6 13419 • Open: Mon-Sat 10am , 6pm

ice is the watchword. For quirky gifts for children and adults at very affordable prices, try Dandelion and Young's. And when shopping gets a bit much, call into Woods cafe in Wood Street for a cappuccino with friends. Before you go, don't forget to prepare for New Year celebrations by stocking up with fireworks at Old Town Hardware.

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01793 480777 or 07834 685871 6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB

Swirndor Wide www.SwindonGailery.org.uk sponsored by Swindon Link

Young and old in the railway village Contribute your views of the town at the Swindon Civic Trust's gallery site sponsored by The Link

Games from history planned for party Swindon Young Archaeologists Club hold a Christmas party on Saturday 10 December at the National Monument Record Centre. A range of games from past times -from Roman board games through to more recent entertainments like skittles and quoits - are planned. A mini tournament will be followed by a party lunch. For details and to take part call Katy Whitaker at the NMR on 414833 or mail: Katy.Whitaker@english-heritage.org.uk

Technics techniques Keyboard Capers get together twice a month to share the hidden secrets and mysteries of Technics keyboards. Newcomers are always welcome. For details mail Midge Gibbs: midge_gibbs@hotmail.co.uk

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36 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Nikki gets the walking bug

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Ormond Street, but most who had decided to raise money as a challenge. "The walking was tough. The wall has been restored in the tourist areas, but in other places we were trekking on tracks with steep drops on either side." Although it was awe inspiring, Gillian said she wastakentothelimits."Therewere Brandon attends said she and several ridges so high that I just Gillian wanted to thank all who buried my head in the leader's pack backed them. "All our family and whilstheledmesobbingalongthe friends helped, so did the Nine path." Elms pub, Asda and Brook House Nikki who has returned to live Farm. They were all fantastic." in West Swindon close to Brook TohelpNikki'sPeruproject,call Field Primary School where 0792 126 3939.

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The Link Magazine • December 2005 37

Swindon Town cuts prices for pre-Christmas family game Festive family fun at the County Ground Swindon Town play their last home game before Christmas on Saturday 17 December against Blackpool and they've dropped prices for all. And there's a great deal to encourage parents to bring the kids. Tickets prices are: • Arkells/Nationwide Stand -£15 adults; £5 concessions: £1 under 16s • Town End: £13 adults; £5 concessions; £1 under 16s For details, or to book tickets, call the STFC Box Office on 0870 4431894 or visit www. swindontownfc.co.uk Coaching for juniors Swindon [own community coaching department is keen to introduce boys and girls to the game through after school coaching sessions run at Link Centre and Haydon Centre. Drop into the centres for times or call Link Centre on 445566 or the Haydon Centre on 706666.

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C 1% '' tl Swindon Dolphins swiming club's phenomenal rise in standards at 5 county, district and national level owes much of its success to its renowned learn-to-swim and teaching programme. Dolphins learn-to-swim pro- pool at Milton Road. Children can grammes takes place in the small begin their swimming careers as early as 4 years of age and progress to the large pool usually by the time they reach 11. ®IN S E ~~ Q ZT !^ Chief coach Andi Manley is delighted with the progress being made in the small pool. "It ensures continued success in competition ^. long term, but above all our teaching programme provides life-long skills in a fun environment." Swindon Dolphins were the first TRAMPOLINE CLU club in Swindon to adopt the National Plan for Teaching Swimming offers (NPTS); a template for the correct teaching of strokes. 45 minute lessons Recently the club gained on Thursdayy SWIM21 and Sport England accreditation which recognises Dol3.30pm - 6.30pm phins as a quality assured club Looking for and a child-friendly sporting orat the Link Centre ganisation. ' • Top of the range fitness equipment To ensure continuity in the teachAny ability welcome • Fully trained fitness professionals ing pool, club managers have em• 25 studio based classes Maximum 5 children barked on an ambitious pro• Sauna, steam and aromatherapy room gramme to increase the number of per lesson • Spinning room teachers entering the sport. • Express training room Ages: 5 to 18 years Seniorswimmersaregivingback g y

Instruction from qualified

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to youngsters the benefits of their own experiences by enrolling on

assistant teachers' courses. The club policy of a swimmer to teacher ratio of 6:1 ensures a quality programme and is a key factor in cent successes at competition level. For details about joining Swindon Dolphins call Phil Bathe, Recruitment Manager on 875556. www.swindon-dolphin.co.uk

• Free DVD/video hire ' • Free complimenta ry drinks ' • Over 20 fitness programmes

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38 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Bryony sets out to get a new lifestyle

Introducing Stay Young, our new micro-current facial system, renown for reducing wrinkles, increasing collagen production and improving muscle tone.

A fifteen year old who wants to join the police has taken up an offer in The Link to get fit and look good. In November The Link teamed up with personal trainer Richie Jeffers

For more information and to book your free demonstration call the Health & Beauty Suite direct on

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from Nine Elms and invited teenage readers to bid for twelve fitness training sessions worth over £300.

We were on the loot: out for somebody who felt they were fighting i losing battle to stay clew i of fast food and startinc to pile on pounds because of sugary fizzy

drinks and lack of exercise.

Year 10 Greendown

Achieve Success Get ready for a January course with a

COMPLETE BEGINNERS PILATES WORKSHOP Saturday 3rd December, I Oam - I.30pm CLASSES IN WEST & NORTH SWINDON PILATES Mon: 6 - 7pm; Tues: 1 1 am & 9pm Wed: 1.30 - 2.30pm (Beginners) & 7.30 - 8.30pm Thurs: 9.30 - 10.30am (Beginners) & 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) 1 0-

YOGA

Mon: 7.30 - 8.30pm (Beginners); Tues: 8 Wed: 12.30 - 1.30pm (Beginners); Thurs: I - 2pm; Fri: 7.30 - 8.45pm 9.1 5pm

pupil Bryony Tancock from Grange Park has

taken the brave step towards changing her life. We asked candidates to say why they wanted the opportunity to take part and Bryony wrote: 'I'd love to be considered for this challenge and feel it would be a wonderful chance to learn about fitness and improve my self-esteem. 'I enjoy sports at school but feel I could improve if I got to my ideal weight. I eat healthy food but am also in the habit of snacking and this has put weight on over the last few years. I would like to join the police when I leave school and know I need to be fit to be considered. 'I am very unhappy with my shape and have little confidence in myself because of this. I would hope to achieve a steady weight loss, an improvement in fitness and the knowledge to use this for life. I have support of friends and family and am willing to put in the time

and effort to achieve this.' Good on you Bryony. It takes courage to go public like this and to be willing to have your progress plotted in The Link over the next few months. It's not an easy thing for a teenager to do where peer pressure can be a stressful issue. She has the support of her dad Rob and mum Lyn who, over the last year, has been pursuing a fitness routine on her own. Richie says the weekly fitness sessions will start out gently and he will be giving Bryony workout programmes to pursue in between, with or without her mum. "This is an exciting opportunity for Bryony," he said. "I'm sure, even with Christmas partying in the way, by March Bryony will be a lot fitter, more confident and mentally much sharper for her GCSE studies."

New heights on offer to young people The team who run The Ridge climbing wall at the Link Centre will be setting high targets for young people, thanks to a scholarship from footwear and outdoor clothing specialists Timberland UK. Climbing coordinator Pete Cook and instructors Mike Swann and Ross New were successful with their Umbrella Project, competing against 500 other entries. In October the team were invited to receive the award at the Royal Geographical Society in LonAPP don, where worldwide exploration trips are planned, a_ including the historic exRid1 e instructor Bonn Roberts points out the pedition to conquer Everwinning description to Mike Swann est in 1953. Pete said the £6,500 scholarship new heights in fun and personal will be used on a range of projects development. "This scholarship to inspire young people from dis- will have a lasting effect for years advantaged backgrounds to gain to come on the people of Swinskills, build confidence and reach don."

The Link Magazine • December 2005 39 Advanced Hypnotherapy, Stress Management and

r 0 hands of thyme

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40 The Link Magazine • December 2005

Link Centre ice hockey two decades on

PARKING CENTRAL SWINDON

Earlier this year The Link ran a series of articles marking the opening of the Link Centre 20 years ago. David Littlewood looks back on the arrival of a brand new sport in the town.

.0"

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of ice hockey at

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up to see an exhibition game between Southampton All Stars.

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...

;, WF AflE

fl flE

The following year on 13 Septem-

Smooth sk ating Canadian Kenny Kipp taking on Cardiff Dc defenders in 1988 at Link Centre

ber 1986 over 500

people saw the newly formed Swindon Wildcats lose 15 - 11 at home to Altrincham Aces in their first competitive match in Heineken League Division One. The Wildcats enjoyed healthy crowds in this league and had their most successful moment in November 1991 when they beat Milton Keynes Kings in Sheffield after a dramatic penalty shootout to win the Autumn Trophy. The summer of 1996 was the end of the road for the first Wildcats. Under the name of the Swindon IceLords, the Swindon team joined the new Premier League. In a season of remarkable success the team won the national championship and the playoffs. But unable to secure enough sponsorship, the IceLords were not able to defend their title in the 1997/8 season. With no senior ice hockey at Swindon that year, the neighbouring Oxford Chill team played a series of games in Swindon due to the failure of their own ice plant. In late September 1997, thanks to a three year deal, the newly named Swindon Chill took to Link Centre ice in the English League Division One. In the summer of 2000, after a further change of ownership, the team re-emerged as the Swindon Phoenix. Coach Bryan Larkin's team achieved success by winning the 2000/1 Premier League title. The team name changed again to the Swindon Lynx at the start of the 2001 /2 season. The departure of Mer y Priest at the end of the 2003/4 season saw the return of former Wildcats' player Daryl Lipsey as the new coach. A new management re-adopted the Wildcats name for the start of the 2004/5 season and long time player Ken Forshee took over as

coach at the start of this season. Current Wildcats' general manager Steve Nell moved to Swindon in the summer of 1986 to join the new team. He explained, "I came

to Swindon for a weekend at the invitation of manager Joe Dunn; I had a look around and ended up moving a few weeks later. There was me, John Burnicle, Richie Howe, Micky Stafford, Ray Harvey and Joe. Also I'd like to mention Dan Walker-he was my first coach here. Memories of that first season were getting beaten every week- I think we came third or fourth from bottom.

Wildcats Tini Le9ueyer defending Joe Dunn's goal in the late 1980s

"I have good memories over the years playing with different imports. There were lots of them but the best were probably Kenny

Kipp, Cal Land, Tim Lequyer, Gary Dickie, and Daryl Lipsey obviously. The strangest incident was when an import called Dick Beaupeel just about got through immigration on Friday, played Saturday and Sunday, then went home on the Monday. I don't think he'd ever planned to be here long term." Looking forward, Steve said, "I'd like to have the team on a firm footing and in front of full houses every week. Also to have good junior development; to develop the kids to move on to play at a higher level here and at other clubs." www.swindonwildcats.com

The Link Magazine • December 2005 41

New York 05 - mission accomplished Link advertiser Les Slinn completed the gruelling 26 mile New York Marathon on 6 November to achieve his target of raising over £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Relief. The New York At 22 miles we all Times reported this needed that boost year's event as the due to the heat. most challenging "It was also both physically and Tr1 great to go past the mentally. In tembig Macmillan peratures of 68 decheering section at grees Les ran the Queensborthrough the five borough bridge at 16 oughs and across miles."

four bridges in 4

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hours4minutes and finished in the top field from all over the world.

and his girlfriend Clare entered a four mile friendship run for all

Les said, "the

overseas runners

third of the 36,000

New York public were fantastic, over two million lined the route and cheered all of us to the finish line.

Up to 50% off some new stock, used leathers from £50.00 `t: thr_^ t'r p

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The day before the big race Les

Come and see us at Unit 73, Basepoint Centre, Ritermead Drive, Westmead,

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flyf/gke

to give him a taste of what the atmosphere was going to be like on race day.

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Watch out around big vehicles This year's Road Safety Week in November focused on the theme ' Watch Out, there's a Kid About.'

Although the week was aimed at educating drivers to be more aware of children on and

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around roads, Wiltshire Transport Training & Development Ltd. in Devizes

took the opportunity to educate children about

their own safety. A giant WTTL artic. lorry was

Nick Rees with Greendoee'n Year 8s

parked at Greendown School in Grange Park for two days and

intructor Nick Rees ran workshops for Year 8 pupils, looking at road safety in the classroom and also showing how children should look out for their own safety. This included sitting in the driver's seat

001V

to see what can actually be viewed from the cab and through mirrors. "There are several blind spots close to a lorry where the driver cannot see pedestrians or cyclists," said Nick. "It's really important that people are aware of their own safety around big vehicles."

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42 The Link Magazine • December 2005 Just moved in?

Exchanging ideas on tackling fire

HANDYMAN at HomeTM

Firefighters at Westlea Station hosted a visit by two firemen from Kalinkovichi in Belorussia on 15 November.

for all your DIY jobs

• Assemble flat-packs • Put up shelves, blinds, curtains • Install appliances • Small decorating, tiling jobs • Small plumbing jobs • Replace electrical fittings • Install and set up your tv. hi-fi, home cinema, new phone ext. • In fact any normal DIY job All types of job in one visit Call (local rate)

or see our website for details www.handymanathome.co.uk We are bas ed in S windon

PETS AT HOME Sheila Mitchell would like to wish all her customers a Happy Christmas and a successful New Year 3^^ , i

are away.

translator daughter, that he was very pleased to visit Westlea and learn how British firefighters work and hoped one day that his staff would be able to use such modern

shire was arranged by the equipment. The Wiltshire Westbury based charity Chernobyl Children In Need. brigade has doMr Chegar said, through his nated uniforms and equipment to

0845 200 7821

Pets at Home cares for pet needs (except dogs) in their homes - in West Swindon whilst their owners

It was very much a hands on morning with chief fire officer Alexander Chegar and his assistant FeodorKunets taking partin training exercises, including cutting up a car and extractinganinjuredpassenger and viewing West Swindon from a 32 metre aerial platform, The Belorussians' visit to Wilt-

PET POINT

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and translator Natallia Bundy with firefighter Rob Evans

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the fire service in Belorussia since the Chernobyl disaster.

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Blue passes away A well known character around Haydon Wick died in late October due to a malignant tumour. Janet and John Garrett's Bouvier de Flandres, Blue featured in several stories in The Link over the last few years, was an ambassador for the breed and wowed crowds at shows all over the country for his friendly nature, great energy and tremendous agility for such a big dog. Bouvier de Flandres were used extensively in World War Ito carry messages and pull supply carts to the troops.

,/ +

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very,. SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE c

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

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6.30pm Saturday: 12 noon-3pm Consulting hours by appointment Mon-Fri: 9am-10.30am; 3.30pm-5pm; 5.30pm-6.30pm; Saturday: 12 noon-3pm 24 HR EMERGENCY. SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: 01793 522483

The Link Magazine â€˘ December 2005 43

Forest plant postponed until Spring Lashing winds and icy rain turned Shaw Forest into a complete quagmire on Sunday 6 November and forced the postponment of the community tree plant advertised in last month's Link. Great Western Community Forest spokeswoman Alison Bruce, "the team would like to thank the volunteers from the Shaw Forest Protection Group and the families who turned up despite the horrendous weather conditions. "The tree plant area had become totally unsuitable for planting and we deemed it to be too dangerous to be accessed by the general public. The trees would not have survived being planted in such wet ground. "It wasn't an easy decision to make as the GWCF team and the SFPG had invested a lot of time and enthusiasm in planning for a successful event." Alan Hayward of the Forest Protection Group said group members understood why the tree plant had to be postponed. "The conditions were not good for anybody, especially families bringing children. We welcome the continued support of the event sponsors Nationwide Building Society and Intel who are backing the tree plant we hope will take place next March. "All being well the weather will be more predictable and we can enjoy the coming of spring with another community get together."

Come and cut some trees down Disappointed that you could not plant trees on Shaw Forest Country Park? Well, here's a chance to cut some down. The Peatmoor Community Woodland Group is holding an open morning on Sunday 4 December, 10am to 12.30pm at Peatmoor Copse. The area is a remnant of the ancient Braydon Forest, once a royal hunting ground. Over the last 18 years, as it has been surrounded by new housing, a group of volunteers have brought the woodland back to life through coppicing the ash, alder, willow and birch trees. This old management technique has encouraged a wide variety of bird, mammal and insect life to return and increased the life span of the trees. The volunteers in the group will be demonstrating coppicing and if you want to take part, bring gloves and wear boots. Training will be provided. There will also be a pole lathe to show how wood products were created in the past. The copse is close to Peatmoor Lagoon. Walk or cycle to the fisherman's car park on Roughmoor Way and pickup directions, or for a map, mail: roger_ogle@mac.com The event coincides with a community litter pick organised by the Friends of Peatmoor Lagoon.

Spreading the word about forests Swindon's Great Western Community Forest team hosted a day in early November for forest education projects all over the country to share how best to encourage people to enjoy woodlands and forests. Representatives from over 20 forest school projects and organisations like the Woodland Trust looked at the way schools have created their own mini-woodlands and are educating children to look after the environment. Ruth Parson's showing off her Harry Hazelnut Story Sack education resource which has been published by former Westlea Primary School headteacher Neil Griffiths through his company Corner to Learn

44 The Link Magazine â€˘ December 2005

Party for Pudsey

Link advertisers Happy Bunnies Nursery held a pyjama after-school party for Children in Need. From left, Danielle Craig, Chloe Hanson, Aaron Craig

Have your say on shaping the town's future A new planning system has recently been introduced (Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act, 2004) which will change the way local authorities plan for their area in the future. Under the old planning system some communities were not always effectively engaged in local planning issues, but under this new law Swindon Council want to give people the chance to make early and on-going input into planning issues that affect their area. As a requirement of the new system, the council has prepared a draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI). This sets out the range of consultation and the techniques that the council intends to use on the planning policy documents it produces (as part of its Local Development Framework), and the planning applications it receives. The council carried out a consultation on its SCI in the form of a questionnaire survey this summer and is now asking for further views on the 'Preferred Options Consultation Draft' of the SCI. A full version of this document, together with comment forms, is available to view at council offices and libraries and online at www.swindon.gov.uk The consultation period will run from Monday 5 December until Friday 27 January. All comments received will be taken into consideration before the SCI is finalised and sent to the Secretary of State for approval. For details on the SCI process contact the council's planning department's Local Policy Team on 466476 or mail: localplans@ swindon.gov.uk

The Link Magazine • December 2005 45

One of Britain's best

Four bedroom detached house in Grange Park Lounge. dining, kitchen, entrance hall. cloakroom/wc. South facing garden. Quiet location close to all amenities/M4 Small double, average double, large double with en-suite shower room, large (loft conversion) double with en-suite Jacuzzi bathroom. family bathroom. £215,000. Viewings by appointment. Tel: 01793 872531 or 0777 904 9840

D.A. DRI VEWAYS & PATIOS LTD El Block Paving El Landscaping 0 Fencing 0 Decorative Stone [ General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service. tree consultation and vv ritten quotation

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• Fencing - closeboard. panels etc. • Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas Contact: 01793 692687 p , AMobile: 0771 1 253508 1

LANDSERVE Garden Maintenance & Landscaping Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting -regular

IIUV!%. r^l,i p4

Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning lee k Gutting & Pruninu

No Job Too Small. All works insured. Call Martin Emery %II Hort.

for free quotation on 1)1793 703306 or Mnl'iile 07771 c )5629 I

RYAN MAINTENANCE & SERVICES LTD Call Gary for • Wall & Floor Tiling • Laminate Flooring • Wall Papering • Decking • Fencing • Gutters & Fascias

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M V

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46 The Link Magazine • December 2005

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX' Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

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.:,iw eaPr m

FENSA

James helps find the inner sound Forget Simon Cowell. The talented and the undiscovered of Swindon no longer need to trawl down the M4 to get a break — James Eddings wants to make you a star, says Lucy Proctor. Finding the ability to succeed in From problems with bullying a person is what this self-styled and only a 65 per cent attendance International Creative Developer rate, her son now looks forward to does best, both through his devel- learning. "James taught Alex mind opment company, Inner Sound, over matter skills, and gave him a and as a student mentor at lot of self confidence," said Tracy. Greendown Community School. "He sees James as someone to reHis next project is an X Factor spect. If James says don't do, he competition to root out Swindon's doesn't do. He's part teacher, and hidden talent. Talks with the coun- then something more than a cil are already in progress, and he friend." James has already worked with is even persuading ASDA to stock 14 Swindon performers, young and the winner CID.

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J..,

a1 amiIy Busing

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Cwt L I j) Cs i 911S LLd

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Freephone 0800 9178695 www.acenti.co.uk

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Giving inspiration, James with his Year 11 group at Greendown James has a vast array of experiences to draw upon when working with students or musicians. He is a farm boy from Alabama, spent time in the US air force, toured with popular band Heatwave and has worked with the likes of Maxim from The Prodigy and many West End actors. "Some people want to sing or play the bongo drums or make a record. They sing in the bathtub or do karaoke in a pub, but they don't realise that if they actually do it and hear themselves on record, it's really something," said James, 41. In 2003 James set about using his development skills to help young people at Greendown overcome barriers in learning which were hindering their progress. At present James has 15 boys and girls, all in year 11, in a mentor group. They suffer from problems with attention, fear of exams and lack confidence. He helps them in class and also meets his own small group of 10 each week, making use of mind maps, emotion charts and music to encourage a 'wholebrain approach to learning.' James has even been known to get students drawing pictures of teachers to help them concentrate in registration. One such mentee is 15-year-old Alex Szymanski, who was diagnosed as dyslexic a year ago. Since then James has provided vital support, and his mother, Tracy Szymanski, believes schools could do with 'shed loads more people like him.'

old, to produce a compilation CD of original work that will be released early next year. He says it takes him just seven weeks to see a creative transformation in a person. He has also had success with his own music and makes appearances on Sandy Martin's show on BBC Radio Swindon. "Every place I've been I've done the same type of thing" said James of his eventful life. "I've worked with children, I've worked with the church, I've worked with the elderly, with streetwise youngster — I work with everybody." If James can help you develop your talent and pursue your dreams, call him on 07725 940 480 or mail: jamesedding7@hotmail.com

Donations appeal Moredon Preschool is a community run playgroup in desperate need of second-hand or nearly new tricycles in good working order. With Christmas coming many will be replaced by more grown up two wheelers. To offer unwanted tricycles call Nikki Millington on 535887 between 9am and 3pm or mail: nikki.milli@virgin.net Toothill Community Centre is a setting up a family room early in the New Year and is on the lookout for a TV. video or DVD player and table top games. To help call Annette Kennedy on 614492 (weekday mornings).

The Link Magazine • December 2005 47

Twenty five years to celebrate The children and staff at Moredon Infants School held a special assembly in mid-November to thank school bursar Brenda Taylor for her hard work over the last 25 years. She's certainly not retiring ye ______ 1 and has already been selected to = work at the new Moredon Primar y `" d a School which will open in Septem^a ber 2006 to replace the adjacent infant and junior schools. In fact the transition will probably see her busier than ever. ) ." "Brenda is a wonderfully laid back person, who approaches every demand with admirable R^1u`^tION calmness" said headteacher Anthea Hilson. However Brenda admitted that Brenda, from Haydon Wick, has she has never been keen on the worked in education administra- crazy antics at the school. "The tion for 34 years, and recalls when staff are always eager to dress up a manual typewriter was the height with the children for a book day or of technology in a school office. a celebration. It's not something I She said, "it's certainly been a time really enjoy, but I never say no." Brenda was presented with a of change, but I've been able to photo record of the last 25 years cope with the challenges, "I really love my job; it's hard including many pictures of her work, but always fun." different costumes.

CALM makes recycling appeal No doubt there will be many mobile phones and printers under Christmas trees this year. The problem is, what to do with the old ones. Swindon CALM (Children's Cancer & Leukaemia Movement) has the answer. Most households have some old or redundant phones in drawers that could be put to good use. And don't just throw cartridges away. CALM can raise cash by recycling them. Call Jackie Lambeth on 0770 8823196; mail: jackielambeth@hotmail.co.uk

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Granite Worktops • Enhance your kitchen with the beau'y of

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Painter & Decorator Also tiling, coving, dado rails. Wallpaper specialist All work approved &

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'my experience

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kan,Ej

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ThIT

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1 S Property Seruicet

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WHY GET WET WHEN YOU CAN JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN? Easy to fit, long lasting great colours and accessories See our displays at THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street. Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

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ckre

1NSIDEOUT

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PLUMBING SERVI ' S

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(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists jWalling • Extensions - Alterations Houses . Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. 'No job too small'

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Boiler Service from £85.00 Landlords Certificates from f65 Call Gary on 07795 485815 25 years experience

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floor tiles fitted? Then call

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i ti L PLUMBING & DIY KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAMINATE FLOORING HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 01115 842241

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INTERIORS • Interior & exterior decoration • Tiling - walls and floors All insurance work covered Free no obligation quotation Other works arranged Insured • No job too small

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01793 725232 07748 964433

0777 5840236 or 321981

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fayIorMade

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12hind

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Paul

I NSTALLED OR REPAIRED YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

ROB HALL

Quality Plumbing & Heating

All aspects of plumbing

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers "I • Bathroom installations Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices Kevin Rolfe

Tel: 01793 815254

MAINTENANCE G 1

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES

All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved • Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.u k Our reputa ti on is built on you r satisfaction

Tel: 01793 881905 Reg 87606

PLANS DRAWN

wise plan sandra wiseinan plans drawn for extensions and change of use for a professional & friendly se rv ice call

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general maintenance

J Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

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

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HEATING & P LUMB ING

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Call Ray on 0790 9962 770 or 325124

HEATING & PL U MB ING

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S' irv nee4

Free quotes 24hr call out facility

taylormade.windows@ntlworld.com

Central heating installations,

D6^ Qapp'gtpy

from the local reliable company

07968 757860

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Mobile: 07973 663367

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Brian Jones Plastering Services * External rendering * Plastering two coat * Re-skimming * Dry lining * Coving * New or repairs

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Reg: 203455

PLUMBING & HEATING Professional & Reliable • Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements • Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers. tanks Full bathroom suites. tiling & electrics • No job too small • Free quotations

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Mobile: 07976 572905

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DECORATOR

CARPENTRY

Stairs

Specialising in shop fitting All carpentry work

1 ainting

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undertaken

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ELECTRICIAN

JC White Electrical Services For all home, garden, small commercial & industrial electrical requirements Rewires, extensions, repairs & fault finding No job too small Advice freely given

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HO ME MAINTENA NCE

D Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work unde rt aken

Li, iif

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Roof repairs Carpentry services

Friendly, reliable & competitive Call Gk i vii

J 24 hour call out J Natural gas & LPG qualified

British Gas trained

Turfing, fencing, patios Upvc double glazing Fascias & guttering

(powedlush)

J Hot water systems descaled

J 1 ^ V1 1 ')

Garden maintenance

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J Central heating systems flushed

Tel: 01793 495365

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Reg:202015

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing Estallished 22 yeas

For a professional finish telephone 07971 347345 (m ob) or 616933

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ER VICES Part P registered to comply with new building regulations

t± J j

Call Andy: 01793 729354

SAFE & Sh •

www.naplt.w&uk

O All gas appliances serviced. repaired & installed

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ELECTRICI AN

M: 077438 74621

HEATING & PLUMBING I

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Part P

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F L OORIN G

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Greenmeadow

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lower PIS , Dug I,,i v ces

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on 0771 8102 921

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filters fitted

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2_U,COm

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fl!

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_. _.

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"MIER lectri cs ESI3. v

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•

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•

repairs to all makes

Washing Machines Twin Tubs. etc. Member of Tumble Driers

of domestic

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

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Guaranteed

431111

A SUDS

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Tel: 01793 469300

CLEANING

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HOUSEHOLD SECURITY WITH CRIME ON THE RISE SECURE YOUR HOME WITH

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SECURITY SYSTEMS

bigpp

secunly systems ltd Expe rt Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

•

e: info@osesec

www.osesecurity.coni

Specialising in domestic user home visits Virus Protection/Removal PC and Server Health Checks Website Design and Implementation

Tel: 01793 422534 or-

•

Hardware Procurement

Mobile: 0798 002 5590

•

Networking Solutions/Troubleshooting

3^ Microsoft

Tel: 01793 706806 Mobile: 07762 645296

Microsoft

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MUSIC SHOP

BRIAN TAYLOR

music 1. Sheet Music - Music Books Instruments - Music Giftware Classic CDs - NAXOS 1 51 High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 840445 www.briantaylormusic.co.uk

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

T V INSTALLATION

WIRING & INSTALLATION & TUNING

* Free home estimates

of TVs, DVD players, Ili-Fi's, surround sound, LCD & plasma systems and videos

No call out charge

Free estimates. no obligation

All repairs guaranteed • SSalh

•

CCTV

• Access Control & Intercom, • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitoring

Computer Services

•

Wootton Bassett. Est 1988

or 07780 625244

Why go anywhere else? When we'll come to you..... =i= Free home & business visits Jargon free advice & support Upgrades/repairs All parts & labour guaranteed Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793-812738

Call Andy on

07900 981144 email: asinstallations@f smail.net

Book Babes

LEARN TO PLAY

Storytelling & Activity Sessions Big Books, crafts, games and more! For children 18 months to pre-school

THE VIOLIN with S windon Suzuki Strings

Worldwide communities come together to celebrate The Catholic parish of St Peter's in West Swindon has parishioners

Suitable for all ages

Now at the North Swindon Library For other venues, details and bookings call Sharon on 702814

01793 700099

http://www.mab.tgrs.co u k

CRUISE FOR CUTS Hair re-styled by Rebecca Qualified in all aspects

FRAMED SIGNED FOOTBALL SHIRTS & PHOTOGRAPHS Ideal for that last minute

Xmas present !!

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

Just ask if we don't have it, we can source it for you 01793 327343

The Mayor of Swindon Rail I'islrer and his wife Christi ne prepare to cut the celebration cake

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing

k DISC SERVICES 2 Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

Tel: (01793) 791388

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758

TAROT

5!D. Tipholstery

Readings: accurate, confidential readings on career, life and romance. Tel: Wendy 07765 975237 or Sarah 07914 078805 Training: Learn to read the Tarot in 10 hours -one to one tuition- to professional standard. programmed to your schedule. Certified course. Tel: Wendy 07765 975237

PO Box 2079, Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

Repairs & Recovering Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive prices

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James Butcher Housing Association provides a wide range of quality, affordable homes for rent or purchase in central southern England. We currently hold a waiting list for our two rented sheltered housing schemes in Swindon and hold a joint waiting list with the local authority for all other properties in Swindon. Tel: 01672 515622 or email enquiries@jbha.co.uk , quoting reference marl/link for more information.

James Butcher Housing Association Providing accommodation throughout the central and south of England. A charity, incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society No. 16602 R.

The annual gathering to eelebrate unity in diversity with a Mass took place on 6 November, followed by a bring-and-share meal. The Mayor of Swindon Ray Fisher and his wife Christine joined peoples from all parts of Africa, Asia and European countries, Fr Michael Saunders celebrated Mass with Fr Bosco Lobo from Goa in India. Welcomes were given in half a dozen languages, intercessions were offered in as many again and the congregation sang in more languages than any of us knew. It all sounded very good. The idea was that everyone should hear their own language at least once. Fr Michael said a large section of the Mass in Latin before three

choirs taken from parishioners from Africa, the Philippines and India sang in their own languages. Over 300 people attended the Mass and a large number of them came into the Parish Centre afterwards fora magnificent meal with dishes from everywhere. Kenyans ate haggis and the Irish tried curries much hotter than they were used to. Everyone considered the event a huge success. The Mayor and his wife were among the very last to go. It was great to have them with us. Lots of people worked hard to create the event but special mention should be made of Melba Sheffield and Suzanne Bullimore. We owe them our sincere thanks.

Christmas costs solved! Join the Prospect Hospice lottery How would you like to solve your Christmas shopping bills and support a local charity too? asks organiser Jenny Evans. By joining the Prospect Hospice Lottery you —— could win £1,000 each week or any of our other 28 weekly prizes. _ w«) Your cheque will be de livered to your door. We at Prospect are

celebrating our 25th an niversary this year and we are sure you will have heard about many

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of the events held to

honour this special occasion. But our biggest reason to celebrate is

the support we have reThe lottery ladies, fronl left, Joan White, ceived from you in the Jenny Evans, Mary Dixon, Jane Page community over the please ask yourself if you could last quarter of a century. Without the on-going help from spare just £1 per week to help us so many local people our hospice continue this vital work. Anyone joining for 25 weeks would not be able to offer the care and support to our patients and before the end of 2005 will receive their families for which Prospect a free 2006 Prospect calendar. Drop into one of the Prospect has become so well known. As partof this support we would charity shops around the town and like to say a huge thank you to all pick up an application form, call our lottery members. If you have the lottery office on 816155 or mail: not thought of joining before, lottery@prospect-hospice.net

At Church this Christmas All Saints, Lydiard Millicent 1 0.30am Sunday 11th 6:30pm Sunday 18th Christmas Eve 5pm Christmas Eve 11:30pm Christmas Day 10:30am St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Sunday 18th 6.30pm Christmas Eve 4pm Christmas Eve 11pm Christmas Day 1 Oam

St Andrew, Blunsdon Christingle Service Carol Service Crib Service First Communion Family Communion - The Church in the Park Carol Service Crib Service First Communion Family Communion

Hook Memorial Hall Friday 16th 7pm

Carol Service

Holy Trinity, Shaw Sunday 18th 6.30pm Christmas Eve 3pm Christmas Eve 11pm Christmas Day 1 0.30am

Carol Service Crib Service First Communion Family Communion

Sunday 4th

10am

Sunday 4th

6.30pm

Sunday 11th

10am

Sunday 11th Sunday 18th Christmas Eve

3pm 4pm 11.30pm

Childrens Service Evensong Family Communion Childrens Nativity Service Carols by Candlelight Midnight Holy Communion Christmas Family Communion Childrens Service

Christmas Day 1Oam New Years Day 1 Oam

St Francis Church of England Primary School, Taw Hill 1 0am Family Service Sunday 11th 1 0am Family Communion Sunday 18th St Andrews Methodist C hurch, Moredon Road All Age Worship 10.30am Sunday 18th Candlelit Service followed by coffee Sunday 18th 6pm and mince pies Christmas Eve Communion Christmas Eve 11.30am Christmas Day Service Charistmas Day 10.30am Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road

Toothill Church Sunday 11th Sunday 11th Sunday 18th Christmas Eve Christmas Day

10.45am 4pm 10.45am 11.30pm 1 Oam

Westlea Church at Westlea Sunday 18th 6.30pm Christmas Eve 3pm Christmas Day 1 Oam

Carol Service Christingle Stargazers Musical First Communion Family Communion School Carol Service Crib Service Family Communion

St. John's Haydon Wick (next to Morrisons) Sunday 4th 4.30pm Christingle 11 am Sunday 18th Carols for all ages Sunday 18th 6.30pm Seven Lessons and Carols Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 1 Oam Carols on Christmas Day North Swindon Baptist Church Family Service Sunday 18th 10.30am Family Carol Service Sunday 18th 6pm Christmas Day Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christ the Servant 4pm Christingle Service (bring an orange) 1 0.30pm Junior Church scripted Carol Service 7pm. Carol Service, traditional - followed by mulled wine and mince pies Family Service Christmas Eve 4pm Christmas Eve 11.15pm Communion Service Christmas Day 1 Oam. Family Service - bring a toy/gift to show and tell

Sunday 18th

10am

Carol Service (creche available)

Sunday 18th

6.30pm

Carol Service (creche & refreshments)

Monday 19th

7pm

Jonah-Man Jazz, musical production

Christmas Day

1 Oam

by the Junior Church; refreshments

Service of Thanksgiving

Swindon Churches Together service to be recorded by BBC Radio Swindon for broadcast on Christmas Day

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Monday 5 December, 7pm St Francis Church of England Primary School Taw Hill Village Centre All welcome

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a " budding with people

Sunday services are at

Christmas Cards Cards from 25 national charities are on sale at the Swindon Cards for Good Causes stall in the West Swindon Library, Link Centre. The stall is run by volunteers to maximise the income to charity.

Oam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org the ,'Oft of God is Eternal Life" (Romans 61-23)

Abbey Meads. Sunday 1 1 th Sunday 18th Sunday 18th

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

For God loved the world

so much that He gave His only Son. John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipoffice@btopen world, corn

Special Christmas Services Sunda y 18 December 10.30am Family Christmas Service Family Carol Service 6.00pm Sunday 25 December Christmas Day Service 10.30am "Conic and join with us in celebrating the meaning of Christmas" At Abbey Meads Communit y School

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