December 2009 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

Help break a world record for planting trees on 5 December - see page 2

New Freshbrook Community Centre public meeting planned for 9 December See page 20

No. 331 December 2009 • Circulation 27,000

Merry Christmas & a peaceful New Year Prospect Hospice opens shop in West Swindon Details on page 13

Swindon Christmas gets off to a rockin start

Make these farmers happy

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Neil Jones and Stuart Bell with Christmas dinner See page 10

Tel: 01793 752600 A moment of snow at the launch of seasonal festivities in the town centre thanks to InSwindon. See page 21

Bump Art to remember pregnancy by

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A great new service for mums launches in December. Find out more on page 10 Photo: Tobias Robins www.trphotography.co.uk

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20/11/2009 11:17

swindonlink.com • December 2009

J S Dance Academy

Tree o’clock on Saturday 5 December -time to plant thousands of trees!

How many trees can 100 people plant in one hour and what’s the greatest number of trees that can be planted in an hour across the nation? If either of these quessaid Patrick. “Our Woodland tions sparks your curiosity, Creation Project is planting and you’d like to be part of 11,000 trees in total, but on 5 a world-record breaking December we’re hoping that attempt to plant the most supporters will plant between BALLET TAP JAZZ trees in one hour, then 2,000 and 5,000. Wroughton is the place to “We’ve got a couple of surRegistered Teachers: be on Saturday 5 December prises in store, so don’t forget Jenny Sullivan from 10.30am to 3.30pm. to wrap up warm and bring L.R.A.D. A.I.S.T.D. National Tree Week takes your own spade for a fun day place from 25 November to out in the fresh air for all the Gemma Thompson 6 December, and to mark family.” A.I.S.T.D C.D.E. the biggest celebration of trees in the created flyers and put together a Although the event runs for five UK, the Great Western Community promotional film, with us starring hours, the crucial record-breaking Mondays at Forest team is linking up with the as Laurel and Hardy type characters ‘Tree O’Clock’ hour takes place Moredon Community Centre BBC’s Breathing Places campaign to demonstrating how to plant a tree,” between 11am and 12noon. plant as many trees as is humanly added Rosie. “It’s real slapstick.” People can also contribute to the Tuesdays at possible at Blackhorse Farm, near The film clip will be shown on record breaking attempt at home by St Francis School, Taw Hill Ridgeway School. Wharf Green’s Big Screen in the planting a tree in the garden; details Thursdays and Fridays at Ridgeway year 11 pupils Rosie run up to the event, and the girls from: www. bbc.co.uk/breathingShrivenham Broad and Katie McCabe, above, are hoping that some of it will be places/treeoclock/pledgeform have been the driving force behind shown on BBC Points West. Blackhorse Farm is close to InSaturdays at the promotion of the event at a local Katie and Rosie are also devis- verary Road, Wroughton. Visitors Even Swindon Community level, working alongside Patrick ing wacky activities for the day are asked to walk or cycle. Car Centre Norris, biodiversity project officer including welly-wanging, Christ- parking is available at Pipers Way at Swindon Council and the BBC’s mas crafts for children, as well as Park and Ride. FOR FURTHER Learning Project Manager, Trish a sale of cakes, teas and warming • Historic trees cut back in Shaw INFORMATION AND/OR Campbell. soup provided by the Ridgeway’s see page 38 TO ENROL PLEASE “We volunteered to publicise this catering students. • Come and cut down some historic PHONE: 872682 event as part of our Duke of Edin“This is probably going to be the trees at Peatmoor Copse and learn burgh silver award,” said Katie. one major tree-planting event in the traditional woodland management Clivey Link 130x93:Layout 2 “We’ve 26/10/09 Pagegroup, 1 set up10:09 a Facebook whole of the south west region,” techniques - see page 38

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19/11/2009 09:43

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Swindon shelter marks 21 years of care at Christmas

Swindon Christmas Care opens its door for the twenty ﬁrst year to provide a warm shelter for the lonely and homeless over Christmas at Queens Drive Methodist Church Hall, Park South from 2pm on Christmas Eve to 11am on 28 December. Run entirely by volunteers, tea, coffee and a friendly face will be available 24 hours a day. Last year over 500 meals were over served, including 70 turkey dinners on Christmas Day. The project depends entirely on the generosity of the public, for donations of warm clothing and footwear, bedding, towels, toiletries and tinned or packaged food. Cheques payable to Christmas Care are also welcome. Queens Drive Methodist Church hall will be open in December for delivery of donations on: • Saturdays 12th and 19th, 10am to 3pm;

• Wednesday 16th, 7pm to 9.30pm; • Friday 18th, 7pm to 9.30pm. Items should not be left outside the church hall at other times. Fresh food like bacon, eggs and turkeys is also needed. To arrange delivery and to discuss volunteering for the project call Sarah Maloney on 433934.

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Foodbank says thank you, but more help needed

Swindon Foodbank, the charity which provides emergency food, celebrated its fourth anniversary on 14 November.

Based in Westlea, the charity responds when families are hit by crisis and steps in with emergency food until support from statutory agencies starts. Since 2005 around 8,000 families have been helped. As Christmas approaches, organiser R i c h a rd B e l s h a m would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has given food in the last four years, describing the donations from school harvest From the November 05 Link, the ﬁrst ever school deposit festivals this year as with Swindon Foodbank. Richard Belsham at Shaw Ridge ‘stunning.’ Primary School “We’ve had the most amazing harvest from schools, can’t afford Christmas so if anyone over eight tonnes of food has been would like to donate this month collected. There’s a real spirit of gen- we would love to have those extra erosity in the town to help support special items,like multipacks of those who are struggling, mainly Kit Kats, chocolate biscuits, nuts due to redundancies but some due anything that’s a Christmas treat.” to sickness or family break up. The next Foodbank collection “Recently, a lot of middle man- takes place at Sainsbury’s Bridgeagers have had their contracts ter- mead on Saturday 5 December, minated, and Foodbank is helping 9.30am to 4.30pm. many of them. We are deﬁnitely Donations at other times can seeing the impact of the recession be made at Rainbow Christian - the number of people we have fed Bookshop, Edgeware Road, off this year has doubled.” Regent Street, Monday - Saturday, He said the charity appears to 9am to 5pm. have quickly become embedded www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk in the hearts of Swindon people. Christmas Market “There’s a phenomenon known in aid of Swindon Foodbank as charity fatigue but we haven’t Sat 5 December, 4pm - 7pm experienced this; it’s so encouraging Freshbrook Evangelical Church how local people are continuing to Over 25 stalls, refreshments and support others. musical entertainment “People are now telling me they

1 - 21 December 09.indd 3

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20/11/2009 11:20

swindonlink.com • December 2009

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You’re all in it together. Ensure your guests help out: get them peeling vegetables, cleaning cake stands or whipping up a triﬂe. The more involved they feel the more of a party atmosphere you’ll create - and the less time there’ll be for them to lounge round getting bored or causing arguments. However, you’ll have to be prepared to accept their offerings, even if they’re not quite up to your standards, or you may provoke resentment.

Be realistic. Recognise that a lot of people together, free to voice their opinions, is a potential for disaster. When you feel compelled to add your views to an already tense argument think twice - will it help/ change anything for the better or will you further inﬂame things? Try holding your tongue and then leave the room for a two-minute breather. Keep the kids organised. Playing with new toys is great but if they lose interest in their own and look set on decapitating their cousin’s new Barbie, get them setting the table for Christmas lunch - one can put out the crackers, one the napkins and so on. And when the walls start closing in late afternoon, a brisk walk would be nice. But if it’s not practical don’t be afraid of getting one of your guests to entertain them with card tricks or colouring so the kids can calm down while you regroup.

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New traditions. If in recent years you’ve felt vaguely let down by the time Boxing Day dawns perhaps you’ve been setting a too high expectation of Christmas day. Try not to think of years gone by, how it used to be or how those movies tell you it should be. Accept it for what it is. If the kids are growing up and the thrill of Santa’s sack has long since ﬂed, ﬁnd something else about the season to look forward to. Make a new tradition. Spread the excitement so it’s not all about the day itself. How about having colleagues round for Christmas drinks a few days before, or have a mini-break between Christmas and New Year, or have friends over and chase away those New Year’s Day blues with fun and food. Whatever you do... Happy Christmas!

Dig deep when shopping

The Brunel Shopping Centre’s Give a Gift appeal is running for a second year, following the resounding success of the campaign last Christmas. In exchange for donating a gift, The Brunel is running a children’s Christmas card competition on Saturday 5 December and is setting up Ban the box. If you’re fed up with a pamper parlour on 12 December. ‘Ready to receive’ gift boxes are arguments about what TV programmes to watch, record what you located within many stores and at can and turn to more traditional the Wyvern Theatre. www.thebrunel.co.uk pastimes. Create a quiz with writ-

Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint, Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial: Tel: (01793) 608840

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for January advertisements: 4 December “The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984.

Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994.” The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden Copy for February: 8 January unless an advertiser or publisher has Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford photographs require similar authority The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers

Editorial copy date for January: 4 December Published: 2 January

20/11/2009 11:20

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Credit for Christmas Carol

What have a TV licence, school uniforms and Christmas presents got in common? They are all items that Carol Ford, right, has paid for with the help of her local credit union over the last 20 years. Carol, mother of seven and grandmother of nine, remembers joining Clivey Credit Union when her daughter was a baby - and she’s now a mother herself. “My most recent loan was to pay for our TV licence. Now I’ve paid that off and saved up a bit more, I’m applying for a loan so I can go Christmas this year. Anyone living out and buy Christmas presents or working in Swindon can join. for the family without worrying.” North of the main railway line The volunteers at the credit union Clivey Credit Union, Clive Parade, know that the cost of Christmas can 541 Cricklade Road. Open: Wednestake people by surprise no matter day 10am to 12noon; Saturday 11am how hard they try to prepare. And to 12noon. Tel: 07905 636152 what might seem like a small loan South of the railway line - Steam to some people makes the world of Ahead Credit Union, Cavendish difference to others. Square, Park South. Open: Monday, “The best thing about the credit Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturunion is that they’re a friendly lot of day, 10am to 12noon. Tel: 522216. people,” said Carol. “We work out Two forms of ID - a passport or together how much I can afford to driving licence - and a recent housepay back each week, and that way hold bill are needed to join. Savings the cost is spread out.” can be made by visiting the credit Clivey Credit Union expects to see union with cash or by standing order. more people then ever saving for See the advert on page 2.

Christmas cards with your personal touch North Swindon Extended Schools is running a free Christmas card workshop on Thursday 3 December, 10am to 12noon, for adults at Nova Hreod School, Akers Way, Moredon. Learn how to create your own card using Microsoft Publisher and your favourite photograph - all in just two hours. To reserve a place call Sandra Collis or Lisa Parkinson on 608199 or register via: www.novahreodisambardess.org.uk

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20/11/2009 11:21

At Church this Christmas

The Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads Sunday 6th 4pm The Big Christmas Sing. Saturday 12th 11am Carols at Abbey Meads Village Centre Sunday 13th 4pm Christingle. Bring your own orange Sunday 20th 6pm Christmas Extravaganza Thursday 24th 4pm Crafts and Carols Service Christmas Day 10am Christmas Day Service North Swindon Baptist Church, Abbey Meads Community School Sunday 20th 6pm Carol Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Service Emmanuel URC, Haydon Wick Sunday 20th 10am All Age Christmas Worship Sunday 20th 6pm Candle Lit Carol Service Thursday 24th 4pm Christingle Service Thursday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10am Christmas Celebration St John’s Church, Haydon Wick Sunday 6th 4.30pm Christingle Service Sunday 20th 11am Carols for all ages Sunday 20th 6.30pm Seven Lessons and Carols Thursday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 10am Christmas Day for All Ages

Carols by Candlelight at Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 12 December, 6pm – 7.30pm • Adult £4 • Child £2

Raising money for the homeless at Christmas. Price includes seasonal hot drink and mince pie. An old-fashioned 21st Century evening with all the seasonal ingredients to eat, drink and sing carols together. No need to book. Dress up warmly and bring a torch.

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St Francis, Taw Hill Saturday 5th 10am Sunday 13th 4pm Thursday 24th 4pm

Christmas Crafts & Activities for everyone Christingle Service Nativity Service

St Andrew’s Blunsdon Sunday 6th 10am Sunday 20th 4pm Thursday 24th 11.30pm Christmas Day 10am

Crib Service Nine Lessons & Carols Midnight Mass Christmas Communion

St Mary’s Catholic Church, Tovey Road Sunday 20th 4pm Carol Service Thursday 24th 5pm Christmas Eve Mass Thursday 24th 7.30pm Christmas Eve Mass Thursday 24th 11.30pm Carol Service Thursday 24th 12.00am Solemn Midnight Mass Christmas Day 9.30am Christmas Day Mass St Peter’s Catholic Church, Carronbridge Road, Eastleaze Thursday 24th 5.30pm Christmas Mass for the children Thursday 24th 9pm Sung Mass of Christmas Christmas Day 10am Sung Mass with Carols Freshbrook Evangelical Church Sunday 20th 10am Morning Service (crèche available) Sunday 20th 6.30pm Carol Service Christmas Day 10am Family Service Gateway Church Swindon Sunday 20th 10.30am Christmas Family Service. Sunday 20th 7pm Carols by Candlelight. Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Celebration All Saints, Lydiard Millicent (The Church in the Village) Sunday 13th 10.30am All-Age Christingle Sunday 20th 6.30pm Candle-lit Carol Service Thursday 24th 5pm All-Age Christmas Eve Service Thursday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 8am Holy Communion Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day All Age Family Service. St. Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze (The Church in the Park) Sunday 13th 10am Holy Communion Friday 18th 7.30pm Carols in Hook Village Hall Sunday 20th 10am Junior Church Nativity Sunday 20th 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Thursday 24th 4pm Family Crib Service Thursday 24th 11pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 10am Christmas Day Family Service/Communion Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Sunday 13th 10.30am Morning Service/Junior Church Sunday 20th 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 20th 7pm Carols by Candlelight Thursday 24th 11pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service Toothill Church, Toothill Village Centre Sunday 13th 10.30am Family Service Sunday 20th 10.30am Coffee and Meditation Sunday 20th 4pm Carols by Candlelight Thursday 24th 11.30pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service. Westlea Church (meeting in Westlea School) Sunday 13th 10am Family Service with Nativity Sunday 20th 10am Morning Service Sunday 20th 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Thursday 24th 3pm Family Crib Service Christmas Day 10am Christmas Day Family Service

20/11/2009 11:22

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Allotments, lollipop-people, humps and wheelie bins - talk at the West Forum

If nothing else, the discussions that take place at the West Swindon Forum are wide ranging, and whilst getting results can be slow, the meetings between residents, the eight councillors representing the area and council officer, get stuck into subjects and lay the groundwork for action by the council. The meeting on 9 November tion in order to manage open spaces • Wheelie bins. Council waste man- and Junior Schools should start in ager Richard Fisher told the meet- February. Gateways, speed signs, more effectively; considered: • the lack of allotments in West • Toothill Primary School crossing ing that larger households in West road markings and raised planters Swindon. Chris Shepard from patrol. Two lollipop people have Swindon which currently have two will be used to slow traffic down, Grange Park called for more recently left and parent Jacky Parry wheelie bins are to be asked if they whist removing the cause of much provision. Parks manager Martin is concerned for pedestrian safety. could recycle more as the council damage to vehicles. Hambidge is considering if there is Road safety officer Margaret Tester is only going to empty one - in line West on the web land to develop any in the West and said attempts are being made to with other parts of the town; Contributions and comments are is ensuring people with allotments recruit replacements, but in the • Humps nearly gone. Work to welcome at a new online discussion use them or lose them; meantime, parents are being urged replace humps with speed tables point for West Swindon residents • Kiln Park, Toothill. Police patrols to take particular care on Stokesay on Freshbrook Way and to improve and councillors created by Geoff road safety on Beaumaris Road Reid from The Prinnels have not revealed criminal activity Drive; Coun Nick Martin said, having outside Oliver Tomkins Infant but the parks department has cut www.westswindonforum.org back overgrown shrubbery around built a new £7 million school, he is frustrated that £12,000 cannot be a seating area used by drinkers; • Overgrown footpaths. Council found for a zebra crossing; open space manager Ed Stamford said the area was overplanted in its development phase, the result being too many large trees and shrubs competing for light. He will be putting forward a proposal to radically cut back and thin vegeta-

• Cycle routes and signage. After consultation, work will start in December to replace worn out and damaged signs around West Swindon Centre. In the Spring, new signs will be installed on foot and cycle ways from the centre to parts of Westlea and Toothill;

Lydiard Park play equipment for disabled children

After raising the need for inclusive play equipment in the children’s play area Lydiard Park at the West Swindon Forum in 2006, Rachel Reid from The Prinnels is pleased to know that work to install a wheelchair friendly roundabout will take place in December.

Neighbourhood police beating crime in West

Operation Hawk - the police response to halloween and bonfire night was an outstanding success in West Swindon according to Community Beat Manager (CBM) Tim Titchener, with a 75 per cent reduction in antisocial behaviour compared to last year. “During this period anti-social behaviour normally comes to a head, but this year it was very quiet,” he said. “We had preventative patrols from 3pm until midnight, making certain that people were not disturbed by local groups of youths intent on causing trouble. Along with posters to shops urging them not to sell flour and eggs to youngsters, and a party for teenagers at the Link Centre, there was very little disruption.” Preventing crime is the aim of the police Neighbourhood Police Tim Titchener and PCSO Amanda Teams focussed on West Swindon Luker examining Restorative Justice - and with 400 fewer victims of over- paperwork all crime in a seven month period While Freshbrook Centre is compared to last year, it seems to closed the police are appealing for be working. people to keep an eye on it and CBM Titchener said that the team ensure it’s not vandalised or broken has also been piloting a Restorative into. If you do see anything call Justice project to resolve neighbour 0845 4087000. disputes. “We have been running And on a more seasonal note, as this for four months and it’s been ef- Christmas approaches Tim warns fective in dealing with deep rooted, everyone to put common sense into long standing problems between action. “Don’t leave presents under neighbours, which over years can the tree in full sight. If you are going descend into abuse and insults. We away, check that the burglar alarm have had over ten disputes resolved works, ensure a neighbour has a key like this.” and knows you won’t be at home. The success in the West means And have a Happy Christmas.” that the idea will be rolled out • Freshbrook Community Centre to across the rest of Swindon some reopen - page 20 time next year.

1 - 21 December 09.indd 7

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20/11/2009 11:23

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Redhouse residents make voices heard through association

Pharmacy opens at new village centre

The slow development of Redhouse Village Centre took another step forward with the opening of a pharmacy opposite Isambard CommuThe Redhouse Residents Association welcomed thirty people to its nity School on 9 November. annual general meeting in late October, as well as Swindon borough councillors Justin Tomlinson and Peter Stoddart, and two members of Blunsdon St Andrews Parish Council. David Raymond was re-elected Drive. If Tadpole Farm goes ahead, as chair of the association as was such a link road would allow thousands of extra vehicle movements secretary Helen Taverner. Formed in January this year the along narrow residential streets alorganisation aims to provide a ready crowded with parked cars. It place for face-to-face discussion by will be dangerous for pedestrians.” Swindon Council’s planning ofRedhouse people, and a way local voices can be heard by organisations ficers are still considering the Crest involved with the development of application, but David hopes it will be deferred until a planning inspecthe area. Meetings have covered the for- tor’s report on the Tadpole Farm mation of Neighbourhood Watch site is revealed next Spring. The schemes across Redhouse and have association hopes this will eliminate discussed crime and anti-social the idea of a link road. Richard King with operations manager Lin Wakefield, centre, and pharmacy staff, “We are looking forward to a from left Zofia Konnieczna, Lucy Green, Rebecca Myers, Becky Dobbs, Janet Lennie behaviour with Police Community busy new year,” said David. “We are Support Officer Pablo Gomez. Opened by the Day Lewis Phar- which is the only pharmacy north of The association debated Swindon planning visits from representatives macy Group, the largest indepen- Thamesdown Drive. The pharmacy Council’s Core Strategy proposal to of Swindon Council’s StreetSmart dently owned chain of pharmacies has been fitted out to the highest build at Tadpole Farm, and lodged team and the borough’s transport in the UK with 166 outlets across the standards and will offer residents an objection to a planning applica- department. We’ll be publicising south of the country, the branch is a range of services including a full tion by Crest Nicholson to build our activities to Redhouse residents dispensing service, blood pressure the first in Swindon. 21 houses on a site in Redhouse, over coming months.” However there is a local link. monitoring, medication reviews David has also been elected onto adjacent to Tadpole Lane. David Richard King from Shaw Ridge was and a free prescription collection said the layout of the plan showed Blunsdon St Andrews Parish Counborn and bred in the town and has and delivery service. that the developers wanted to create cil to represent Redhouse issues. “I and the staff have no doubt worked for the company for the www.redhouseresidents.org an access road in the future, linking last seven years. “Having lived in that the pharmacy will be welcomed Tadpole Lane and Addinsell Road. • Crest Nicholson demand 2,500 Swindon all of my life I have not as a much needed facility serving “We are very concerned about houses for Tadpole Farm next to actually worked here since 1981,” Redhouse, Oakhurst and other allowing access from Tadpole Lane Oakhurst and Redhouse - see he said. “I’m delighted that Day parts of Priory Vale, as well as Abthrough Redhouse to Thamesdown page 35 Lewis is able to open the new branch bey Meads.”

New Pharmacy Now Open Your new Day Lewis pharmacy is now open for all your healthcare needs. Our Services We are committed to improving the health of the local community and provide the following healthcare services: Prescription Collection and Delivery We will collect your prescription from the surgery, make it up and deliver it to you at home – saving you time and hassle. You can either register in store or call us to sign up to the service.

1 - 21 December 09.indd 8

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20/11/2009 11:25

swindonlink.com • December 2009

ASHINGTON HOUSE SURGERY

Christmas Greetings

Wishes you a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year from all the doctors, staff and patient representatives

Facechoice Pharmacy

Ashington Way, Westlea, Swindon

from your local medical & dental practices and pharmacies

Tel: 01793 - 614840 www.ashingtonhouse.com

Brendon Ball and all staff wish their patients a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

from Sushma Patel and the staff at

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Open: Mon to Fri: 9am - 1pm; 2.15pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12noon

Taw Hill Village Centre, Aiken Road, Swindon SN25 1UH

We wish all our patients and friends A Very Merry Christmas

Reception open Monday to Friday 8.00am - 5.30pm

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A Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year From Dr Peter Swinyard Dr Anke Lehmkuhl Dr Mauro Bassanino and all at Phoenix Surgery

1 - 21 December 09.indd 9

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19/11/2009 10:08

10 swindonlink.com • December 2009

Beautify your bump to lift your spirits

Gayle Fletcher of Inner Smile Massage is bringing a whole new twist to the concept of ‘baby showers’ for expectant mums by giving the native American tradition of Blessingway a contemporary twist to make it relevant and enjoyable for expectant mothers in Swindon. “Modern baby showers tend to and encourage the mum-to-be dur- time in a woman’s life,” said Gayle, be about gift-giving and product- ing labour, and making pledges to whose bump art designs take just buying,” said Gayle. “I want to help the new family after the birth.” over an hour to apply, and range The focal point of a Blessingway from natural images of butterﬂies focus more on getting together with the women in our life at a gathering might be the creation of a and ﬂowers to patterns and manRecommended for CHRISTMAS: very special time, to celebrate the fantastic design upon the pregnant dala shapes. • Hot oil Hawaiian massage They are offering a unique gift for lady’s bump using colourful faceimminent birth. • Bump art & photography an expectant mum: Studio Bump “The Blessingway is about spend- paint or henna. or bump to baby package “At the end of the pregnancy Art Christmas vouchers. ing an afternoon with our female • Aromatherapy hot oil head to feet treat Gayle and Becky Brain are planrelatives and friends, and doing when the mum-to-be is feeling things like baking gingerbread very heavy and fed-up, having ning a Pregnancy Nourishment Day CallGayle: women with marshmallow bumps, a beautiful image painted across at Lower Shaw Farm on Saturday 6 hello@innersmilemassage.co.uk creating artistic collages to up-lift her belly can lift her spirits” said February 10am to 4pm which will www.innersmilemassage.co.uk Gayle. “This can be photographed offer yoga relaxation and massage, as a memento, or, if it’s done with self-help bump art where mumshenna, it can last throughout labour to-be learn how to paint or henna as a symbol of all the support she each other, plus discussions on the right of passage. has from her girlfriends.” For details of a Blessingway Gayle is also working in partnership with professional photogra- party, bump art at home, a stupher Tobias Robbins. In December dio photography session, or gift Latest styles, realistic prices, great service they launch Studio Bump Art pack- vouchers, contact Gayle: hello@ ages at Tobias’ Old Town studio. “A innersmilemassage.co.uk Cutting • Colouring - tints - foils Merry Christmas & a www.innersmilemassage.co.uk photograph of a painted bump is a • Perms • Extensions • Bridal hair Happy New Year from www.trphotography.co.uk unique souvenir of a very special

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Christmas at Christ the Servant Church Abbey Meads Village Centre

Sun 6th Dec @ 4pm: The Big Christmas Sing We are being joined by St Andrews and local Schools Carols at Abbey Meads Village Centre Collecting for “Crisis at Christmas” Sat 12th Dec @11am:

Sun 13th Dec @ 4pm: Bring your own orange!

Christingle

Sun 20th Dec @ 10.30am: Service Presenting “Papa Panov’s Special Day” Sun 20th Dec @ 6pm: Christmas Extravaganza Local talent singing carols & sharing the meaning of the Christ’s birth Thurs 24th Dec @ 4pm:

Crafts and Carols Service

Thurs 24th Dec @ 11.30pm: Midnight Service At St Andrew’s Church Fri 25th Dec @ 10am:

Christmas Day Service

Sun 27th Dec @ 10.30am: Sunday Family service

Everyone warmly welcomed Further information telephone: Rev Brian Sweetman (01793) 701437

1 - 21 December 09.indd 10

Gayle decorating a bump. Photo: Tobias Robbins. www.trphotography.co.uk

Toothill patients can access appointments book at any time

Toothill’s Phoenix Surgery has marked the tenth anniversary in its current premises at the village centre by launching its long-awaited online appointment booking facility. The new system allows patients to book, check or cancel GP appointments via the internet and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Surgery business manager, Rob Charles, said, “it’s been quite a challenge to overcome the technical and configuration problems that have affected this project. However, we have carried out extensive testing and are confident that we have a robust system that we are happy to offer to our patients, safe in the knowledge that they will find it reliable, convenient and easy to use.” Over 200 patients pre-registered for the service before it went live on 1 November and the number of users has grown daily since, some accessing the system in the early hours. Senior partner Dr Peter Swinyard, said, “we are delighted to be able to provide this facility to our patients and have been pleasantly surprised to see that it has been embraced by patients of all age groups. We are also hopeful that patients who suffer hearing or speech impairments will find this new service especially beneficial.” Patients need to complete a registration form which can be collected from the practice or downloaded from: www.phoenixsurgery.com

20/11/2009 11:27

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Blood could be the best gift to give

Becoming a blood donor is the most fulfilling donation we can give: it costs us nothing, it takes so little time, and yet one donation can guarantee to save at least one person’s life, writes Emma Kimber. Most people have, or know someone who has, while in critical health, received blood during surgery or while in hospital. As the primary concern of the patient, family and doctors, is the patient’s health, the guarantee that the blood will be there is rarely thought about. This is why it is so important to keep up that excessive blood supply, and keep the donations flowing. The National Blood Service(NBS) needs to collect 7,000 units of blood every single day, in order to meet the demand from hospitals. This demand is constant and needs to be met all the time. It’s a bit like a sink. If you pull the plug, but leave the tap running, you can keep the water level the same. But if you begin to close the tap, the water level will drop.

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The flu season has put particular strains on supplies. Whether it be normal flu or swine flu, many regular blood donors have been unable to give blood. The NBS has built up stocks in preparation for the flu season since the summer, but needs to keep up the flow of blood, even when people’s attention turns to Christmas, and into the new year. Past donors are encouraged to return up to three times annually, and to bring along friends and relatives who have never previously donated. The free cup of tea and a biscuit post-donation, often works as a successful incentive. Becoming a blood donor is easy. Anyone between the ages of 17 and 59, who lives a fairly healthy lifestyle, is a prime candidate. For those who have never given blood, you will be required to attend a donor session, at a convenient time at a local venue, where you will chat to a nurse and fill out some forms about general health and history. Donor sessions regularly take place at venues in and around Swindon, such the County Ground, Steam Museum, Freshbrook Church and the Bible Society in Westlea. All sessions are open for most of the afternoon and into the evening. Dates, times and locations are at: www.giveblood.co.uk or call the NBS hotline on 0300 1232323.

1 - 21 December 09.indd 11

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12 swindonlink.com • December 2009

Mayor unveils new Learning for Life education centre

The Mayor of Swindon officially opened new offices used by Learning for Life at Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea on 20 November. Courses range from communica- that we can create an individual arrive cowering in the corner and He, with South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove, met tutors and tion skills, using numbers in every- programme to suit them. Learning leave with heads held high.” Bruce Clarke said he was very users and learnt about the range day life, introduction to the internet for Life is about empowerment of courses for disabled adults and and email, life skills, stress manage- giving people the skills to develop impressed by the way Learning for Life had set up at Basepoint. ment and relaxation, counselling, and move on.” carers including lone parents. Tutor and psychologist Alan “When I was manager of the SwinThe organisation is possibly improving personal effectiveness, the only one in the country which learning to relax with arts and crafts, MacGregor said, “people are valued don Learning Partnership with the for who they are. Learning for Life borough council we were able to provides training, education and tai chi and pain relief. L4L manager Nalni Sorr said, is not about treating symptoms or make a major investment in learnpersonal development opportunities for adults with a range disabili- “each person’s needs are identified meeting targets. It’s about dealing ing for people with disabilities. This ties, whether it be physical and/or and then addressed in a holistic and with the whole person and working is an excellent example of how the social anxiety, depression, self harm friendly atmosphere. Many poten- together positively to move forward independent voluntary sector can deliver imaginative, innovative tial clients perhaps don’t recognise in their learning. or the results of abuse. “The mutual support amongst learning initiatives.” www.L4LSwindon.co.uk the learners is remarkable. People

Basepoint backs MS therapy centre

The mayor David Wren, centre, with L4L manager Nalni Soar, far left, next to Anne Snelgrove MP, and users, tutors and supporters in the art therapy studio

The first of two payments totalling £10,000 to match fundraising by the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis was made by Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea in November. The grant will be directed at conditions like ME, Motor Neurone developing work with children in Disease, Parkinson’s disease and need of oxygen therapy when the stroke. More recently people with MS centre moves to refurbished cerebral palsy and autism as well premises on Westmead Drive, as other conditions involving brain injury have also improved. Westlea. Studies in the USA show that The MS Centre was hoping to have completed the £800,000 re- by using oxygen under pressure, furbishment of Bradbury House children with cerebral palsy imin order to hold its annual general prove faster than with conventional meeting and Christmas party in therapies. Jackie added, “at the Swindon December, but delays in the manufacture of the purpose built Therapy Centre we have been treatoxygen chamber means a launch ing two children who have brain tumors which could only be partially in mid-January.

Jackie Wray receiving the Basepoint donation from assistant manager Lyn Chapman

“It’s a bit of a blow not to be able to open for our Christmas party, but we’ve settled on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 January to launch the new centre, whether the oxygen chamber is ready for use or not,” said centre manager Jackie Wray. “The donation from Basepoint is very exciting and will help us increase opportunities to work with parents and children.” High Dosage Oxygen Therapy (HDOT) is beneficial to people suffering from mainly neurological

1 - 21 December 09.indd 12

removed. Both of them have shown definite signs of improvement in their physical condition as observed by the chamber operators as well as their parents. Basepoint Business Centres are owned by the ACT Foundation which provides grants to individuals and other charities, principally in the UK, with the aim of enhancing the quality of life for people in need, with particular emphasis on people with mental and physical disability. www.theactfoundation.co.uk

20/11/2009 16:14

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Prospect opens first shop in the West

Prospect Hospice opens its first outlet at West Swindon District Centre at the end November, introducing the now-familiar Shop Prospect brand to the area. Prospect's shops generate around £1m for Swindon’s hospice in Wroughton and retail manager Charley Rich, right, hopes that the introduction of a new store will attract the charity’s supporters from the west of the town. She said, "we're really excited about opening a shop in West Swindon. We have a few legal issues to tie up but hope to be open by the end of November or early December in time for Christmas.” The initial lease is for ten months but Charley hopes that a good relationship will be struck with Asda “Prospect has had unbelievable so that it can be extended. support in the last year which “We’re looking forward to wel- has been difficult for everybody. coming supporters living to the People have been very generous, west of Swindon and indeed people both financially and with their time coming from all parts,” said Char- helping in our shops.” ley. “We have high standards for To donate to the new shop in the items we sell in our shops and West Swindon, or to support it as welcome donations of quality cloth- a volunteer, contact Alyson Stevens ing, household and electrical goods. on 813321.

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Local happy turkeys get ready to celebrate the festive season

‘Tis the season of the turkey...so trot along to Common Farm, Wroughton where there are just 200 free range turkeys ready to make your Christmas a tasty one A naturally grown bird, raised by 8 kilos. A £20 deposit is required Farmers Niall Jones and Stuart Bell, when the order is placed. So if your relatives are getting in an airy barn with three times the legal space, and access to a grassy ready to gobble down Christmas paddock, could be on your Christ- dinner order one of these tasty mas table having travelled just a turkeys. But be prepared to tell your family to stop stuffing themselves, few food miles. “The birds have had a lovely or there’ll be nothing left for Boxing green field and a big barn to run Day. Then they’ll just have to go around in since July and have had cold turkey. OK, enough fowl play. Stuart Bell who has supplied a completely natural diet of cereals and vegetable protein,” said Niall. Swindon with Christmas trees for “We present them in a convenient years has his usual wide range on carry-home box, complete with offer. Common Farm is off the B4005 cooking instructions and recipe Wharf Road between Wroughton leaflet, and we even include fresh and M4 junction 16. To reserve a turkey call Niall on herbs.” The birds are £8.99 per kilo up to 8 07792 306542. www.jonescountryfayre.co.uk kilos, £7.99 per kilo for turkeys over Looking forward to the festivities. Seasonal fayre with Niall Jones and Stuart Bell

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20/11/2009 11:29

14 swindonlink.com • December 2009

Merry...birthday?

fabrics that measure up

A North Swindon woman will be Christmas day - her birthday. Not only was Alison Nicole Riordan from St Andrew’s Ridge born on Christmas day - but so was her late mother (ﬁrst names Margaret Noelle) and her great grandfather (ﬁrst names Benjamin Christmas). Alison’s nine-year-old son Nicolas nearly carried on the family tradition but just missed out - he was born on 6 December, the day celebrating the feast of St Nicholas, the model for Santa Claus. Alison explained how her family have created a two celebration

celebrating a family tradition on tradition. “Christmas presents are always opened in the morning with the birthday person getting to be postman for all the gifts under the tree - but the afternoon and evening are reserved for the birthday celebrations. “People have often suggested having a second birthday in the year but I couldn’t do that. My birthday’s Christmas day and that’s it. It just means double celebrations for the family - although friends tend to forget in the run up to Christmas.”

Safe Haydon crossing set for February

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Christmas people, Alison and Nicolas

Haydon Wick Parish Council has agreed to contribute £15,000 for a zebra crossing across Thames Avenue to provide safe access to the medical centre and pharmacy, Haydon Wick Community Centre and shoppers taking a short cut to Morrison’s supermarket. Work is expected to start during February half-term school holiday to minimise disruption to trafﬁc. The Parish Council is meeting most of the cost of the crossing, with the balance being made up by Swindon Borough Council.

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1 - 21 December 09.indd 14

20/11/2009 11:31

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Macs make inroads into Swindon schools

The power of Macintosh computers were demonstrated at an Apple Education Day at the Swindon Town Education Centre at the end of October. Children from primary schools said, “me and my friend Megan easy and quick, we had a lot of fun. tion centre coordinator Martin showed how they had easily mas- made a cartoon and also a comic. I’ve put one on my Christmas list.” Turnbull said the facility had been tered the skills to produce cartoons I’d never used an Apple but it was The County Ground educa- designated an Apple Education Reand stop-frame animations on lapgional Training Centre to help more tops and video cameras after only children from Swindon schools two weeks’ loan. experience the creativity made Children at Westlea Primary possible by Macintosh equipment School made a short dragon slayer and software. animation with a set made by On the day, Apple educator Joe teaching assistant Trudy Talbot. Moretti demonstrated how even Headteacher Suzanne Seaton was the most musically challenged so impressed that she has put off person can easily create digital decisions on buying new computmusic using Garage Band software. ers until more Apple software is He showed how the results can be evaluated. incorporated in the curriculum and Dominic Stroud from Red Oaks can be distributed across the school and the internet. Westlea children showing off their work to Swindon mayor David Wren with headteacher Suzanne Seaton, Apple educator Joe Moretti, left, and Swindon Town goalkeeper Phil Smith

Cadets offer time to help

Technology trip to Oz for local heads

Nine Swindon primary school headteachers and an IT technician spent three weeks in Australia during November studying how schools are using Apple Macintosh based technologies for music, video, animation and the web in their education programmes. Australia has developed the Cheney Primary Schools, said, “we ment in Sydney, and we are looking world’s most advanced integrated want to learn more about how they forwards to establishing closer links use of Macs in the classroom and the are using ICT as a delivery mecha- with schools down-under.” The trip is being funded jointly heads visited 11 schools in Brisbane, nism for the whole curriculum, Melbourne and Sydney, after a four rather than as a discrete lesson on by the National College of School Leadership, individual schools and its own. day training programme. “We made a short ﬁlm to present by the government’s Train to Gain Before departing Lauren Connor, head of Moredon and Rodbourne to the Australian Education Depart- initiative.

Swindon College

West Swindon Detached Flight Air Cadets is looking for volunteering opportunities for members of the unit in the area over the next few months. Four cadets are available, accompanied by an adult, on Mondays and Fridays, from 7pm to 9.30pm. They might also be able to offer some Saturday or Sunday mornings. If you have a project that needs some willing helpers, contact unit secretary Louise Cordas: louise. cordas@tiscali.co.uk

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20/11/2009 11:32

16 swindonlink.com • December 2009

Autism unit to open at Greendown

Extended School Services are here in your local community to offer you and your family a variety of services, activities and opportunities either as individuals or as a family. So whether you are looking for new social outlets, childcare, information on paying for childcare, clubs and activities, holiday activities for your children, adult courses, retraining or opportunities to return to work .... . . . it’s all just one click away . . . take a look today at what’s coming your way!”

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A proposal to have a special autism unit at Greendown school has been through a parental consultation, and goes before Swindon Council’s cabinet in December for final approval. The 15 place ASD (Autistic Spec- in mainstream classes. Each pupil trum Disorder) centre will enable will have significant individual pupils who are capable of following support. Greendown headteacher Clive a mainstream curriculum to attend a local school. Without it they might Zimmerman said, “governors have be forced to be educated separately, gained a clear undertaking from the through both their autism and a lack council that both the construction and running costs of the new facility of provision in Swindon. Around three extra places each will be from additional funds, so year will be created - specifically there will be no detrimental effect for pupils who have been diag- on the school budget. “The reaction of parents at the nosed with mild autism or related conditions - in addition to the 230 parents’ forum was very positive - there’s a lot of empathy with the Year 7 places. There will be a new block of two parents of pupils with aspects of classrooms and other facilities, ASD; people seem to be in full agreethough a flexible approach will ment that they should be given the mean some are taught largely in the chance to be educated with their specialist unit while others may be friends in a mainstream school.”

Dyslexia is a gift says author

Well known children’s author and illustrator Sally Gardner visited Red Oaks Primary School in November to celebrate achieving the Dyslexia Friendly Schools Quality Mark.

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1 - 21 December 09.indd 16

Red Oaks children holding the Dyslexia Friendly School certiﬁcate presented by Sally Gardner, with learning advisor Ian Abbott, and Clare Owens

Sally told an assembly that she was called word blind at school before dyslexia was recognised - and was put in a school for maladjusted children because no other would take her. “I started reading when I was fourteen and there was no stopping me,” she said. “My mother told me if I passed ﬁve GCSEs that I could go to art college and then I went on to university. My message is if you work hard you will overcome difﬁculties with the help of teachers. “But I do think dyslexia has too many negative meanings; we have to change this perception. For me it’s good to be dyslexic, it’s a gift children have because it brings out different aspects of their personalities.” Learning inclusion manager Claire Owens said, “at Red Oaks we believe being dyslexic is being someone amazing and Sally was an inspiring visitor who supported everything we try to do. We work extremely hard to understand chil-

dren’s learning differences and ensure we teach the way our children learn. It is a team effort involving our children, parents, teachers, teaching assistants and governors.” After the assembly Sally toured the school to see how classroom displays are designed to make it easier for children to understand information and talked with children about how they have learnt different methods to read. She autographed copies of her book and drew illustrations for children throughout the lunch break. Jayme Obloj said he enjoyed the visit. “I struggle with writing a bit so I use highlighted lines to write on and go to groups for reading and spelling to help me. I feel a lot more conﬁdent.” Finlay Skelton is a keen Sally Gardner reader. “I was really excited when we heard she was coming. I go to a group to practice sounds and it helps me read more of her books.”

20/11/2009 14:41

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Delving into black history at Peatmoor

Peatmoor Primary School celebrated Black History Month during October by listening to and reading stories by black authors, and books that feature characters from a range of cultures. During assembly the children learnt about the life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King and his influence on changing the way black people were regarded in the USA and around the world, whilst o lder children learnt how African American woman Rosa Parks was prosecuted for not Parana Colturato demonstating a spectacular element giving up her bus of Brazilian capoeira with Peatmoor youngsters seat to a white man in 1955, sparking the civil rights dangerous because it had martial movement to achieve equality arts in it. Now capoeira is a huge tourist attraction for Brazil and is many years later. Part of Peatmoor's month in- just as important as football.” The children also enjoyed trycluded an Afro-Brazilian Day where the whole school took part ing out typical Brazilian dishes for in workshops on capoeira, a Brazil- lunch and Indian samosas from the ian dance form which combines Bombay Lounge restaurant. Sarah Adams, one of the organismusic, games and martial art. Dance teacher Parana Colturato said until ing teachers, said the month was an 1932 anybody caught doing capoeira important experience. “Peatmoor in Brazil could find themselves in aims high to teach the children about prison for six months. “It was cre- black history and the determination ated by slaves and was considered of people to fight for equality.”

BALLET - TAP - MODERN - JAZZ MUSICAL THEATRE & RAD MAJORS

01793 532250

The Sullivan School of Dance

More than just a dancewear shop 3 Day Christmas Sale 21st, 22nd, 23rd December Pointe Shoe fitting by appointment

We will be closed from 24th December. Re-opening on 4th January www.spotlightdancewear.co.uk 186 Victoria Road, Swindon

West Swindons’ Established Dance School

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‘Serving the West Swindon Community for over 25 Years’

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Jenny Sullivan

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Wednesdays at Millbrook School, Freshbrook Pre-School Dance 3.00 - 3.30 Pre-Primary Ballet 3.45 - 4.30 Primary Tap 4.30 - 5.00 Primary Ballet 5.00 - 5.45 Classes also at Covingham, Liden & Gorse Hill FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND/OR TO ENROL PLEASE

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Classes from two and half years upwards Lessons held at Haydonleigh School, Abbey Meads Community School, Blunsdon Village and also Stratton Community Centre Official Dance Centre of the ISTD offering FDI & CDE Units Bring this advert with you and receive the first two lessons free

Contact Sarah Watson on 01793 524112 or 07825 543529 before 8pm

1 - 21 December 09.indd 17

20/11/2009 11:33

18 swindonlink.com • December 2009

New playgroup looks for staff

Parents are backing a move to restart a community playgroup called Alpha in Freshbrook Community Centre when it reopens in the new year.

Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & garden Grant places available For information call: 01793 851495

www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS

Little Foxes Childcare & Education

For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042

l l l l

An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about

Can’t wait for their playgroup. Children awaiting places with steering committee members Fiona Turner, Fiona Wood, Mei Lin Wilson, Lisa Woolford, Vicky Lynch, Linda Jacobs, Julia Pirt

Freshbrook Playgroup was privatised in 2008 and moved to the community room in the primary school. The loss of income to the community centre contributed to its closure in October, at the same time the playgroup itself went bankrupt. Now former playgroup worker Linda Jacobs and a group of mums are forming a committee, applying for charitable status and raising money in readiness for the reopening of the community centre, hopefully in February. Linda said, “parents have been very positive about the playgroup

restarting. Other groups are full and there is desperate need for pre-school provision close to their homes. “We’re keen to return to the community centre because the playgroup room is purpose built for young children.” In the meantime parents bring their children to Munchkins Parent & Toddler group on Monday, Wednesday and Friday in Millbrook Primary School where parents Vicki Lynch, Fiona Turner and Linda run playgroup-like sessions for over threes.

Vacancies at Alpha Playgroup Two managers both with NVQ level 3 and at least three years experience within a pre-school setting. Salary £7p/h SENCO NVQ level 3, minimum three years pre-school experience, previous SENCO experience not essential as training will be given. £6.75 p/h. Two pre-school assistants, NVQ level 2, must have relevent experience within a pre-school setting. £6.50 p/h Pre-school helper, relevant pre-school experience required, with willingness for career development. £6p/h. Administration manager, 12 hours per week, previous pre-school administration experience required including PAYE. £7p/h. Mail for application form: v_lynch@hotmail.com

Regulars at Shaw’s Village Inn have raised £500 to allow Little Acorns Playgroup to purchase walkodile harnesses so that children can safely go for a daily walk together. Village Inn manager Greta Richardson and fundraising coordinator Stacie Wearne hand over the cash

1 - 21 December 09.indd 18

20/11/2009 11:36

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Moredon Children’s Centre gets ministerial approval

Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, was helped by two-and-a-half year old Jessica Bufton to cut the ribbon at the ofﬁcial opening of the new Sure Start Centre in Montrose Close. Baby Sensory multiple award winning learning and development programme exclusively for babies aged 0-13 months Classes start January 2010 in the Swindon & Cirencester area. Free demos during December 09. For more details please phone Alison Randall 01285 862355 www.BabySensory.com

Jessica Bufton gets encouragement from minister Ed Balls, South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove, centre manager Kay White and Moredon Primary School headteacher Lauren Conner

Centre manager Kay White had invited the minister to make a visit when she was one of 75 managers invited to 10 Downing Street in May to celebrate 3,000 children’s centres opened across Britain. She said, “other centre managers speak very highly of Ed Balls so we were delighted when he agreed to come to Moredon.” During his visit the minister joined in with bulb planting, nursery rhymes and met centre workers. “Kay has created a great atmosphere at the centre,” said Mr Balls. “As a father of three I know that being a parent can be tricky and

in the past it was difﬁcult to track down the right services and support for your child’s all-important early years. With Sure Start many of those services are under one roof with experts often on hand to give parents that additional help.” Moredon’s centre offers toddler and baby groups, parenting support, budget cookery courses, play therapy, baby massage and weaning advice. The staff include a fathers’ support worker and they work closely with health visitors and police community safety ofﬁcers. For details of centre activities call 615479 or 07791 185108.

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1 - 21 December 09.indd 19

19/11/2009 10:23

20 swindonlink.com • December 2009

Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd Providing mortgage services for the community since 1987

Give yourself a gift Review your mortgage before Christmas and you could be making a saving for 2010 And you could be saving for Christmas We may be able to find you a lower interest rate. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage. Whether you’re planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your property, with over 22 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service. There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it will be £300. However, no completion no fee. Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For a free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

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Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance

1 - 21 December 09.indd 20

The newly formed management steering committee for Freshbrook Community Centre is holding a General Meeting on 9 December to formally adopt a constitution before applying for charitable status.

A good response from residents is needed at the meeting. Once the constitution is adopted it will take several weeks before Charity Commission approval is granted. The steering committee hopes the building can reopen by March or April. The community centre was shut in September when the Freshbrook Village Group management committee lost charity status Front from left, Nicola Brown, joint secretary, Stephanie after failing to sub- Bird, chair, Emma Tanner, joint secretary. Back, Kat Sandell, Sally Hannon, Stan Frost, Charlie Dyer, Dave Davison mit accounts. Since then, resi- and Sue Butler dents, Swindon council officers and Centre without any ties to the old councillors have worked together Freshbrook management group we to find a way forward to ensure don’t think there will be any probthe building can again be used by lems with the charity commission.” community organisations. Tina Mackie, joint organiser of Steering committee chair Stepha- the Wednesday community cafe at nie Bird said the people who the centre, currently based in Freshstepped forward at a crisis meeting brook Church, said, “the community in October have been on a steep miss us. Although we are very lucky learning curve. “Sub-committees and appreciative of the church’s ofhave been set up and we have a fer to let us use their premises, it’s large number of vola little too far for unteers, but more many of our cusNew Freshbrook are always welcome tomers to walk; our and needed. We Community Centre weekly takings have will also need lots reduced by half. General Meeting of help in getting Jenny Sullivan Wednesday the building up to who ran Sullivan scratch so we’d like 9 December, 7pm, School of Dance to hear from anyone Freshbrook Church, at the community who has a skill we centre since 1981, Uxbridge Road could use. said, “we were very “Our vision is for sad when it was it to be the centre of closed, but we are the community, with as many activi- very grateful to Millbrook Primary ties and opportunities as possible School for accommodating us. In for all ages. We want a centre that is terms of where we’ll be next year, bright, lively and well maintained, a we’ll have to see what the future centre the community will be proud brings.” of, with people queuing up to use it. To volunteer with the new “We do hope previous users will Freshbrook Community Centre return but we also want to appeal management or enquire about to a whole host of others. booking space, mail: freshbrook“As we are a new group, to be communitycentre@hotmail.co.uk called Freshbrook Community or call 07746 807589.

Play space toys needed H0106887

772779

Freshbrook Centre on course for reopening with residents’ support

Oakhurst Primary School is appealing for equipment to help make their temporary playground more interesting until their new building opens in September. Donations of playhouses, basket-ball shooting hoops, plant pots and garden furniture would be welcomed. Call headteacher Dale Burr on 734754 with offers.

19/11/2009 10:25

21esrtsary

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Art, Craft and Framing products

Lots of extra bargains Framework Art & Craft Unit 35 BSS House Cheney Manor, Swindon

Seasonal fun in Swindon centre

Lorraine Chase, this year’s Wicked Witch in Wyvern Theatre’s pantomine Sleeping Beauty was in her most sweet and friendly mood at the switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights. minute retail therapy. With help from Simon Jackson, town crier Fred FerinSwindon’s chief exris, the Mayor and ecutive, said Swindon Mayoress and variis the place to shop ous team mascots for Christmas. “There’s Lorraine plunged something for everya big red button to one to enjoy this year. switch on the lights The retailers are pulland launch a ‘snowing out all the stops for storm’ and fireworks a bumper Christmas. to the delight of hunWith keenly priced dreds of people. parking, free Thurs“I’m really looked day evening bus travel, forward to coming family entertainment to Swindon for the and traditional treats panto,” said Lorraine. on offer, we think this “I’m a lovely person but you’ll see a different side of me Wharf Green, where this year’s will be our best Christmas ever.” www.inswindon.com when I come on stage. I like being Christmas tree is located, will feawicked from time to time. But I’m no ture a seasonal themed Farmer’s method actor, I don’t have to stay in Market on Friday 11 December. the role throughout the run of the inSwindon’s community carol show, it wouldn’t do my reputation concert takes place on 17 Decemany good at all.” ber, 6.30pm next to the tree. The Lorraine will be joining the cast in Salvation Army will provide the early December to start rehearsals live music and public participation before the curtain rises on Saturday is welcomed. Song sheets, roast 12 December. The show goes on chestnuts and mulled wine will be until Sunday 10 January and tickets available on the night. are on sale from the box office on Between 18 and 20 December 524481 or online at www.wyvern- shoppers in Wharf Green, the Patheatre.org.uk rade and Regent Circus will step Santa has set up shop in The back in time to experience a VictoBrunel until 23 December to hear rian Christmas. The event will give the wishes of kids of all ages. Entry visitors the chance to learn more to the grotto (on the Arcade upper about traditional arts and crafts, floor) costs £2.50 and includes a such as decoupage and candle present for every child. making, and indulge in some last

Ample free parking

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Annual General Meeting and pre-Christmas social

All items made by local artists and designers - mosaics, ceramics, stained glass, clothing, textile art, jewellery to suit all tastes www.artisite.ltd.uk

Friday 11 December, 7.15pm for 7.30pm start, Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane

21-52 December 09.indd 21

For details mail Bruce Clarke: b.clarke22@btinternet.com

20/11/2009 11:55

Swindon Wide

GP calls for tribute to woman who gave all

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Dr Ayub Kandiah from Sparcells Surgery is keen that his late patient Ivy Armstrong is recognised. The November Link reported Ivy’s death in October after a long life committed to childcare. In response Dr Kandiah wrote, “it is very important for Swindon to do something in the memory of this wonderful lady. “Ivy was not very well off, but she gave in abundance. She fostered children from all walks of life; she stood as a beacon of hope for them. She cared for everybody, wherever they came from. “I feel naming a community building would be a fitting tribute to this wonderful lady.”

Hair care chair offer

The team at Head Rush are looking for another hairdresser to rent a chair in their salon at Basepoint Centre, Rivermead Drive, Westlea. Gemma, Julie and Sheralee would like to thank all their clients for their custom throughout 2009 and hope to see everybody in the new year. Call Head Rush on 602552 to arrange an appointment ready for Christmas. To discuss working at the salon ask for Gemma.

Stunning Evening Gowns, Cocktail Gowns and Outfits suitable for:Dinner Dance • Prom • Cruise • Mother of the bride/groom • Sizes ranges from 2 to 26 • Gifts and accessories • Maternity evening wear by Tiffany Rose

22 Brunel Plaza www.so-elegant.co.uk 01793 433373

Online job search sessions open in West library

Lighting up tradition

With many employers only offering jobs on the web, people without computer access or who don’t know the techniques of presenting themselves online are at a disadvantage. Swindon Library Service has teamed up with the Job Centre to provide free, confidential training in setting up an email account, preparing a CV, online search and Swindon’s German toddler group submitting applications. which meets at Saltway Children’s No appointment is necessary at Centre followed the German tradi- library sessions on: tion and held a St Martin’s lantern • Tuesday morning - Central; procession in mid-November. • Friday morning - North Swindon. Children and parents walked from A new session launches at West Abbey Meads Church round Elstree Swindon from Thursday 3 DecemWay park holding lanterns, singing ber, 2pm to 4.30pm. traditional songs in German.

Competition winners

Return to the Hundred Acre Wood CD: Lily Evans, Kent Road, Swindon Family ticket to Sleeping Beauty at the Wyvern Theatre. Due to the fantastic response to the competition we have a second family ticket to give away. The winners are: Stephanie Piatek, (9), Grange Park and Millie Ersser, (6), St Andrews Ridge.

Correction

The November Link story on Angelique Ralay, the French girl who lived in Swindon in 1994 and is now a singer living in Texas, did not make it clear that her family name at the time was Saulnier. In response to the article Angelique wrote, ‘I really loved the story, so did my family. It brought back so many good memories of living in Swindon.’

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21-52 December 09.indd 22

20/11/2009 11:40

Swindon Wide

Christmas treats in store at Steam

Scrumptious treats and sumptuous gifts will be on offer at Steam on 5 and 6 December, 10am to 5pm, when the museum opens its doors to one of the biggest luxury Christmas gift markets in the region - for the cheerful price of just £1 per visitor, whilst under 3s are free.

Christmas Party Time at Wrag Barn Golf & Country Club 3 Course Dinner Disco Crackers & Hats £28.95 per person

Festive Lunches also Available from £20.00 For Bookings & Information call: 01793 861327 Shrivenham Rd, Highworth, SN6 7QQ

Email: fandb@wragbarn.com

Seasonal cheer on offer at Steam on 5 and 6 December

Some 40 market stalls will be found around the exhibits offering luxury goods and traditional crafts, ranging from designer jewellery, ceramics and pottery, to toys and games, organic soaps, hand-made confectionery and chutneys. Steam business manager Alan Greer said, “the special admission price of only £1 each makes this

the perfect time to combine a visit to Steam with some very enjoyable Christmas shopping.The whole museum will be turned into a Christmas wonderland with all the traditional trimmings and Santa inside his grotto with gifts for the children.” Musical entertainment will include brass bands, bell ringers and barrel organs.

Collectors item on offer

You don’t have to be a model railway fan or a collector to see the possibility of giving somebody a model of a Swindon Castle Class locomotive. Steam has a stock of this limited edition produced by Hornby. Visit the Christmas fair for details or call 466626.

Enjoy the magic of Christmas at Lydiard House

From Saturday 5 to Wednesday 23 December, you can get a glimpse of how the Victorians celebrated the festive season when Lydiard House will be decked out in traditional festive greenery and decorations to create the intimate atmosphere of a 19th Century family Christmas. Decorations will be typical of the style of elegant, yet festive displays that the Lady of the Manor at Lydiard Park would have enjoyed creating to impress family and friends. There will be real trees in the hall, library and bedroom, beautifully decorated with candles, ribbons, traditional baubles and handcrafted decorations. The dining table will be laid out with a lavish Christmas meal, including roast beef and plum pudding, popular in the late Victorian period and based on old menus belonging to the Bolingbroke family of Lydiard Park. A new seasonal quiz trail gives children the chance to hunt down Christmassy clues alongside the popular Teddy Bear quiz. Sunday 13 December, 2.30pm: Live music from Swindon Choral Society. Sunday 20 December, 2.30pm: Purton Pealers Hand Bell Ringers. Drop-in activities Sunday 13 December, 12noon to 3pm Make a star lantern using willow and tissue paper. Sunday 20 December, 12noon to 3pm Make a festive table decoration using natural materials sourced from the park. Normal admission charges for all days plus £3 per person for craft sessions.

21-52 December 09.indd 23

20/11/2009 11:40

Music

Swindon Wide What’s

Tuesday 1st, 1.05pm Lunchtime Recital: Jemima Palfreyman, piano. Programme includes Beethoven’s Pathetique Sonata and virtuoso pieces by Ravel, Liszt and Rachmaninov. £5; buffet £3.50. Wyvern Thursday 3rd, 8pm

Friday 4th, 7.30pm

Chris Farlowe, above, and Norman Beaker Band play classics from the annals of rock. £14. Arts Centre

Souvenirs of Stonehenge, the Good, the Bad and the Ugly by Julian Richards, above. £6; £5 for Friends. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Film

Theatre

Wednesday 2nd, 7.45pm Gomorrah (15) The iconic Italian mafia movie is recreated in the reallife context of contemporary Naples. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 16th, 7.45pm Bienvenue Chez Les Ch’tis (12A). Did you think the ‘north/south divide’ is just a British thing? This French comedy gives us their take on it. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing

Comedy

Monday 14th, 8pm Snow ‘Queen.’ An adult pantomime. Not suitable for children. £13.50. Wyvern Friday 18th, 8pm Jongleurs Comedy Club. New lineup of top stand-up comedians. £12. Wyvern

Exhibitions

To Saturday 5th, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm; Sats 9am to 5pm Margaret Tapscott from Lydiard exhibits works on a variety of subjects from land and seascapes to still life and animals, in pastel, watercolour and acrylic. Framework Art & Craft Until January 2010 Presentation of Self. Portraits which conceal and reveal the nature of artists and their subjects, including works by Lucian Freud, Gilbert and George and Steven Pippin. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Until March 2010 Inspired by Stonehenge. Stonehenge related memorabilia including souvenir china, postcards, guide books, clothing, comics and music, collected and curated by well known archaeologist and broadcaster Julian Richards. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

21-52 December 09.indd 24

Talk

Wednesday 2nd to Friday 4th, 7.30pm Mary Theresa’s Cupboard. A highly imaginative festive piece, this exciting new play has been devised and written by David Calder and pupils at Bradon Forest School. Adults £4; students £3. Bradon Forest School Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th, 7.30pm SweeneyTodd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street presented by Old Town Theatre Company. A darkly comic melodrama, not for the faint of heart (or stomach). £7.50. Arts Centre

Christmas Music

Saturday 5th, 7.30pm Christmas Concert by Swindon Choral Society and children from St Margaret’s Preparatory School, Calne. Music includes Benjamin Britten’s St Nicolas and a variety of Christmas carols. £10; under 18s free, tickets from Swindon Information Centre (ticket hotline 466454) Christ Church, Swindon Saturday 5th, 8pm Thea Gilmore’s Wintertide. A special acoustic evening of songs with a seasonal bias. Thea is joined by Nigel Stonier on lead guitar and Fluff on fiddle, viola and cello. £12.50. Arts Centre Sunday 6th, 3pm Carols around the Christmas Tree with Kentwood Choir. £5; children £3, Roves Farm. See advert on page 19 Sunday 13th & Sunday 20th, 2.30pm Carols and Seasonal Music. Lydiard House. See page 23 Monday 14th, 2.30pm Remember When at Christmas. Enjoy a festive trip down memory lane. £10, tea & mince pie £2. Wyvern Thursday 17th, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Carol Singing. Roasted chestnuts and mulled wine from 6pm.The Salvation Army will play with local choirs. Song sheets available on the night. Wharf Green, Swindon

20/11/2009 10:16

On in December Christmas Fundraising Friday 4 December, 5.30pm to 8pm Brook Field School Fayre School choir, brass band, raffle, games and stalls Cartwright Drive, Shaw Saturday 5 December, 1.30pm Westlea School Christmas Fete Lots of stalls, refreshments Santa’s grotto Saturday 5 December, 2pm to 4pm Millbrook School Christmas Fete Lots of stalls, Santa’s grotto Free. Freshbrook Village Centre Saturday 5 December, 4pm to 7pm Freshbrook Evangelical Church Christmas Market 25+ stalls, refreshments and musical entertainment Proceeds to Swindon Foodbank Saturday 12 December 12noon to 3pm Peatmoor Nursery Christmas Fete Lots of stalls, Christmas card & cracker making, face paints, cakes, jewellery, book stalls, raffle Admission is free but £2 to see Santa in his grotto with a present Peatmoor Village Centre Saturday 12 December 12noon to 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice from many therapists and beauty specialists The Drove Peoples Campus Southampton Street. SN1 3AH Entry £2. All proceeds to Swindon MS Therapy Centre

Christmas Farmers’ Market Friday 11th December Seasonal stalls seling gifts, hot food and beverages Wharf Green, Swindon

Venues

Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Bradon Forest Theatre Bradon Forest School, Purton. Tel: 773981 Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35 BSS House, Cheney Manor. Tel: 513069 Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 770401 Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway. Kemble Drive. Tel: 466646 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time & price with venue

21-52 December 09.indd 25

Children & Family

Friday 4th, 4pm & 6.30pm The Night before Christmas. A little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to get presents. Suit children aged 3 upwards. £9; children £7; family £28. Arts Centre Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th, Saturday 12th, Sunday 13th, Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th, 11am to 4pm, also Sat 12th 6pm to 8pm Santa Specials. Steam train rides from Blunsdon Station. Swindon & Cricklade Railway. Tel: 771615 From Saturday 5th Pantomime PlayersTrail. Drop-in activity. Find the pantomime characters around the museum. £1/child (including small prize). Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th, Friday 11th to Tuesday 15th and Friday 18th to Wednesday 23rd, 10.30am to 5pm (last entry 3pm) Christmas Activities. Visit Mary and Joseph in the stable, join in the Nativity play with the farm animals, Christmas crafts, visit Santa in his grotto. Child £8 (includes gift); under 3 £4; adult £6. Roves Farm. See also Christmas Music and advert on page 19. Saturdays 5th & 19th, 10am to 4pm Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers bring the days of steam to life. Normal admission charges, STEAM Saturday 5th to Wednesday 23rd (closed Mondays), 11am to 4pm Country House Christmas. Lydiard House. See page 23 Saturday 5th to Wednesday 23rd (closed Mondays), 11am to 4pm Quiz Trail. Lydiard House. See

CHRISTMAS 2009

page 23 Saturday 12 December to Sunday 10 January, various times Sleeping Beauty starring Lorraine Chase as the Wicked Queen Carabosse right. From £14. Wyvern Sunday 13th,12noon to 3pm Make a Star Lantern. Lydiard House. See page 23 Friday 18th to Sunday 27th (excl 25th), various times The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe presented by Empire Theatre Company. A spectacular musical adaptation of the great classic story. £10; family £30. Arts Centre. See the advert on page 6 Sunday 20th,12noon to 3pm Ta b l e D e c o r a t i o n s . Lydiard House. See page 23

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20/11/2009 11:41

Swindon Wide

Cupboard mystery for Christmas

Youngsters at Bradon Forest School have devised an eerie tale of childhood fantasies and wanting too much at Christmas time with head of Expressive Arts David Calder. Playing from Wednesday 2 to Friday 4 December, 7.30pm, in the Bradon Forest performing art centre, Mary Theresa’s Cupboards combines a spoilt child, a mysterious house said to be haunted by an old crone who collected toys, a chorus of estate agents and a dance troupe of broken toys. Tickets are £4 adults and £3 for under 16s from the school, tel: 770570. David Calder as a fierce Macbeth visiting youngsters at Brook Field Primary School for a Shakespeare Day in November

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See our full menu at www.rendezvous.uk.net CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES Xmas Eve: 4.30pm-11pm Xmas Day & Boxing Day CLOSED New Years Eve: 4.30pm-11pm New Years Day: 4.30pm-11pm

Tel: 01793 703388 21-52 December 09.indd 26

Competition to ﬁnd the best poets

The free to enter Battered Moons Poetry Competition is open to anybody living in Swindon over the age of fourteen, with the best seven entrants being asked to read their work at May’s Swindon Festival of Literature. The winning poems in the competition, supported by the Festival of Literature and Swindon Artwords, will also be published at www.thepoetryexchange.com The closing date for submissions is 8 January. For details mail organiser: cristina.newton@newcollege.ac.uk

Swindon’s own Alfred The Great

A new society to appreciate and promote the life and work of Swindon’s railway poet Alfred Williams is officially launched at the Central Library on Tuesday 8 December, 7pm. Williams who lived between 1877 and 1930, worked as a steam hammer operator at Swindon Railway Works. Despite his humble beginnings, he was widely recognised in his day as a talented writer and a notable literary scholar, who became nationally appreciated positive effect on preserving heriand known as the ‘Hammerman tage and augmenting the cultural heritage of the town.” Poet.’ Williams developed a love for His book Life in a Railway Factory portrayed the harsh working India where he served in World conditions inside the GWR works War I and taught himself Sanskrit and remains a vivid contemporary so he could learn more about its account of factory life in early 20th culture, religions and literature. Dr Cullimore believes he represents Century Swindon. The rural surroundings close a unifying focus for the town’s difto the town centre at the time in- ferent ethnic groups and religions spired him to write poetry and and a figure to promote the town’s prose about his native countryside heritage. Read some of Alfred Williams’ and its folklore. Dr John Cullimore, chair of the work and for an invitation to attend Alfred Williams Heritage Society, at: www.alfredwilliams.org.uk said, “despite his historical importance, Alfred Williams is largely unknown to the vast majority of 4th Annual General Meeting Swindonians of the present day, Drove Social Hall, and there are few contemporary off Southampton Street, Swindon references to his achievement. Thursday 3 December, 7.30pm However, we believe his inspiraLight refreshments provided. tional life and work justify a maA new committee to organise jor effort to promote awareness of this compelling character, and Swindon Mela 2010 will be elected. www.swindonmela.com we firmly believe there would be a

Swindon Mela

19/11/2009 11:51

Swindon Wide

Library service marks successful chapter for book delivery volunteers

Volunteers who take Swindon Borough Council’s Library Service to housebound residents were recognised at a recent celebration.

Swindon’s deputy mayor Rex Barnett, with Home Library volunteers and service coordinator Debs Osorio, back centre, and West Swindon librarian Karen Leydon, back right

About 100 volunteers go out in pairs every three weeks with bags of items such as normal and large print books, stories on tape or CD, music CDs and DVDs to deliver to people who cannot make it to their local library because of long term disability or short term incapacity. At a tea party in West Swindon Library, deputy mayor Rex Barnett told the volunteers, “without you I don’t know where we would be. You are an essential link for the library service to people in need; your support is very much appreciated. Debs Osorio, Home Library co-ordinator, said, “the volunteers deliver over 5,000 bags of items a year and they don’t often get the chance to meet each other so the celebration is a great way for the whole service to come together. To become a Home Library volunteer or to receive the service, call Debs Osorio on 707127 or mail: dosorio@swindon.gov.uk

21-52 December 09.indd 27

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20/11/2009 15:37

Swindon Wide

Music and booze sessions for all

Music Alive based outside Purton runs weekly MESS sessions - Monday Evening Session Society - at pubs in and around Swindon, which are open to all musicians from beginners to experts, as well as visitors. Music covers a wide spectrum, ity providing a safe, supportive, from traditional folk to the blues and positive and accessible environbeyond.The important thing is mak- ment where disabled and noning music together. Mess meetings disabled people can make music and develop skills. in December take place on: Workshops are organised at 7th Royal George, Purton (alBentham House, Purton. Drum ways first Monday of the month) 14th Rose and Crown, Highworth circles exploring and sharing the power of rhythm take place at (always second Monday) 21st The Bell, Old Town (always Lower Shaw Farm and Isambard Community School. third Monday) For details of community music 28th Iron Horse, Wroughton (alaround the town call 770699 or ways fourth Monday) Music Alive is a registered char- see: www.music-alive.org.uk

Wishing all our clients a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Join Santa’s elves at Studley Grange

Studley Grange Craft Village will become Christmas heaven during December when it turns into Santa's Workshop. It's the ideal place to pick up a the weather is. It's the ideal place unique gift, handcrafted on site by to start a hobby with lots of expert the many skilled craftsmen and advice on hand. women. And you can go further • Santa’s grotto will be open at and make your own special pres- Blooms garden centre next to ent in a workshop, and you might Studley Grange Craft Village in aid of Prospect Hospice. He’ll be on come across Santa's elves. Studley Grange Butterfly World hand on Saturday and Sunday 5/6 and Craft Village provides a day out and 12/13 December and daily from for the whole family no matter what 19 to 23 December.

from Pam and the team

Abbey Meads Village Centre Tel: 01793 704800

Novel explores present crisis

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21-52 December 09.indd 28

Peatmoor resident Brian Barber has teamed up with an ex-special forces expert to create a story with strong contemporary and local references which considers how the government can be held to account for involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. A career spent about the presence of m a i n l y wo r k i n g weapons of mass deoverseas has prostruction in Iraq, and vided Brian with a failing to supply British wealth of colourful troops in Afghanistan tales - experiences and Iraq with the corwhich have providrect equipment.” said ed the inspiration Brian. “The soldiers’ for Accountable, aim is to make the an intense thriller politicians admit their written by former accountability.” soldier JB Lowden. The book is partly set Brian said his in Wiltshire, in particulink with the author lar Wootton Bassett, goes back a long where the body of the way. “I worked with lead character’s son is JB in the Middle East and in Africa repatriated from Afghanistan. in the 1990s and we’ve been friends Despite JB’s first-hand experiever since. When he relocated in ences, the book is unlike most acthe UK, I visited him at his home tion novels in that nobody is killed in Frome and sharing our experi- or injured - although it provides a ences led to working together on wealth of fascinating insights into the Accountable which JB wrote based world of covert operations. on my storyline.” Brian said the book is borne out JB’s biography lists action with of frustration with the political scene. the US marines in Vietnam, attach- “We stayed in touch constantly addments to South African commandos ing plot shifts and coming up with and the French Foreign Legion, new scenes. It was a steep learning rescuing kidnap victims in Baghdad process for us, but also an enjoyable and serving as a UN peace keeper. creative process, so much so that “The action centres on three the last chapter marks the beginning special forces soldiers who take of the book’s sequel.” direct action against the British govAccountable costs £9.40+p&p ernment for misleading the public from www.authorhouse.co.uk

19/11/2009 11:08

the bigger picture

Swindon Wide

Wednesday Evening Yoga Class Beginners Welcome

with Liz Gilvin BWY Student Teacher

7pm – 8.30pm

at Queens Drive Methodist Church Hall Whitbourne Avenue, Park South, Swindon SN3 2JX

Call Liz on 07719 420145 for more details or to arrange a free taster class. 6 classes £40. lizgilvin@btinternet.com

Thanks to Mark Tredgett, a member of the congregation at Blunsdon St Andrew Church in North Swindon for this image of the church dressed in Christmas card fashion after the heavy snows in February earlier this year. North Swindon vicar departs in January. See page 50.

Yuletide tour of the town and musical favourites

Members of Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown will be escorting Santa on a tour of the town in his sleigh starting in Stratton on 1 December and ending up at West Swindon Centre on Christmas Eve. In between they’ll be collecting for good causes at North Swindon District Centre, Haydon Wick, Taw Hill, Middleleaze, Peatmoor and many other places in between. A full list of Santa’s stops can be found at: www.rotaryclubofswindonthamesdown.org.uk Wessex Male Choir will be joined by Swindon’s Pegasus Brass and the Janice Thompson Singers to present rousing yuletide favourites at their annual Christmas concert on Friday 11 December at Holy Rood Church, Groundwell Road. Tickets are available from the choir ticket secretary on 772384 or Swindon Information Centre on 530328.

Merry Christmas

from all at the

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21-52 December 09.indd 29

19/11/2009 11:09

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Tap Attack makes move on world championships

A team of tap dancers from across the UK led by Jo Scanlan from Nine Elms sets off for Germany on 29 November ready to perform for Britain from 1 to 5 December. Jo organised a team at short over 3,500 dancers from They’ve been rehearsing on Sundays at Brook Field Primary School notice for the 2008 championships around the world to since the summer and are ready to after discovering the year before perform in the biggest perform well on this second visit that the UK was not represented. tap event there is. “The team have been The championships bring together to the event. working really, really hard to be ready to take on the best in the world,” said Jo. “We learnt a lot last year Preserve your natural beauty and I think we can Specialists in skin rejuvenation impress the judges in December.” TEOSYAL www.tapattack.co.uk

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21-52 December 09.indd 30

60a Beechcroft Road Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown

Leaping for Britain, Jo with Swindon based dancers Adina Nyahwa and Keith Henderson

Jockey offers personal sponsorship opportunities to business

Blunsdon St Andrews resident and top national hunt jockey Wayne Hutchinson wants to set up sponsorship deals with companies in and around the town. Swindon-born Wayne, right, who has been racing for ten years, rode his first Cheltenham winner at this year’s festival, bringing home Oh Crick to win the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Chase Challenge Cup. “Every win is special, but riding the big winners is an amazing high,” said Wayne, who is the second jockey for Wroughton be; everything happens on a dayto-day basis.” trainer Alan King. Wayne’s wife Amy, who works “I’ve ridden ponies from a young age, and took part in local for the John Laing facilities manageshow-jumping events as a boy,” ment team at Isambard Community said Wayne. “But I discovered that School, said the schedule makes particular demands on life. “It’s imI preferred the speed of racing.” His first major win came in 2006 portant to have a supportive family when he rode Halcon Genelardais network as the hours are extremely in the Welsh Grand National. Last demanding. Wayne is up at 5.45am year he came 13th in the Grand daily during the racing season and National on Darkness, and won is often not back ‘til after 7pm.” Wayne writes a weekly blog for four times in one day at Doncaster. Wayne says sponsorship would Sporting Life chronicling his experibring good exposure to business. ences and commenting on what’s “Obviously with the big wins and happening in the racing world: the weekend races there’s a lot of Wayne’s World as Amy calls it. “The atmosphere is totally television and press coverage so any sponsor could get a lot of publicity electrifying at Cheltenham and the Grand National; I love going for their investment.” A jockey’s schedule is extremely along,” said Amy. “But the sumhectic, with thousands of miles mertime is a good opportunity for being covered each week. Wayne Wayne to spend time with me and said, “over a weekend I could be his son Callum as there are fewer at Fontwell near Portsmouth on meetings.” To discuss sponsorship call Amy the Friday, Hereford on Saturday, Sandown on Sunday, then up in on 0774 7083155. Carlisle on the Monday. You never • See action shots of Wayne at: can tell with the sport where you’ll www.swindonlink.com

19/11/2009 15:40

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Moredon ice-hockey player picked for England in Canada tournament

Twelve-year-old Moredon resident Michael Stratford is the only Swindon player to have been picked for England’s under 13s ice hockey squad and his family are seeking sponsorship to support his trip to the international Peewee tournament in Quebec in February. Michael’s Dad, Mark Stratford is ‘chuffed to bits’ with his son’s success. “It’s going to be the biggest ever Peewee event, with 16 countries taking part. We’ve already bought our ﬂights over there, but the trip is entirely self-funded and Michael still needs equipment.” The family are working hard to raise £2,500, including a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge on 18 November, and a 24 hour puck shot challenge in Manchester on 27 November. Michael with Hanif Robani at the The young player who has to keep charity curry night on 18 November up with school work at Nova Hreod “This is Michael’s biggest ambihas a gruelling training regime between now and February, involving tion ever,” said proud dad Mark. weekly travel to training rinks in “He’s a good lad who works hard Guildford, Coventry, Manchester in training and always listens to his and Shefﬁeld, sometimes involving coaches. It just goes to show what you can achieve if you just keep an eight hour round trip. Training takes place on Friday working.” To sponsor Michael on his nights, from 10.30pm to 12.30am, which is the only time that the rinks journey for England, mail Mark: are available for squads to practice. stratford594@aol.com

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Icy reception for Link rink patch time changes

In a bid to boost revenue, Link Centre management has altered times when the ice rink is available for training, known as patches. Parent Aimee Georgeson, whose without consultation with parents.” However centre manager Carole daughter is a keen skater, said the new patch times present a problem. Jamieson said there was a need to “The after school patch times have increase use of the rink. “Obviously moved to be half an hour earlier, with the economic climate as it is we starting at 3.15pm or 3.30pm rather need to make sure we can continue than 4pm or 4.15pm, which means a to provide a skating facility for real rush for us three times a week.” all kinds of users, and this means The Link Centre recently hosted maximising the number of people the National Open Figure Skating we accommodate. “I understand that change is Competition featuring 150 skaters under 18 years from all round the difﬁcult, but we have a very good relationship with our coaching country. Aimee added, “it’s a credit to the team, and have listened to their centre and to the town that we have needs before making changes to three young skaters who have just the schedule. “We will be monitoring usage qualiﬁed to compete in the under 14 and junior British Championships. very carefully over the coming We’ve got such a great facility in the weeks and are fully prepared to Link Centre, but it’s a shame that bring in more coaches to keep the decisions seem to have been made patches busy.”

Nova to jump for heart health Pupils at Nova Hreod take on the British Heart Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart programme over three days in December. Organiser Amanda Clegg is hoping everybody will take part, to boost their fitness and raise a lot of money. “The British Heart Foundation’s jump rope programme recognises the important role that regular physical activity plays in maintaining and improving health and aims to introduce students to the massive potential of skipping and associated health benefits through a series of structured PE lessons. “The sponsored Jump Off on 14, 15 and 16 December will enable the pupils to demonstrate how they have developed their skills through different skipping games and activities.”

21-52 December 09.indd 31

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19/11/2009 11:11

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Gold medallist visits Swindon toddlers

Link advertiser Liz Davies was delighted when Pudsey Bear came to visit her Tumble Tot toddlers bringing another special visitor: Olympic winner Sally Gunnell, OBE. The women only workout for The 400 metres gold medallist She was so impressed any size, age & fitness level helped as the three and four year that she now acts as Burn 350 to 850 calories olds did a sponsored balance chal- ambassador and visin just 30 minutes! lenge involving climbing, agility its centres for special and coordination, to raise money events. Circuit training, hydraulic machines “Sally is a ﬁrm befor Children in Need during Tumble Personal trainer, nutritional advice and optional weigh-ins Tots National Children’s Activity liever in young children having the opWeek Friendly and supportive staff Both Tumble Tots and Children in portunity to take part Special offer: £20 per month, no joining fee Need are celebrating their thirtieth in physical activities Call 01793 881900 as a preparation for a anniversary this year. or Kayla 07711 785582 Liz said, “Sally’s involvement healthy life. “She worked with with Tumble Tots began when she www.24hourgym.co.uk took her three children to sessions. the children throughSensor House, Langley Road SN5 9WB out the 45 minute session and Pudsey Bear had a cuddle for Sally with Tumble Tots in Stratton St Margaret everyone.” For details of Tumble Tots and at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw, call GymBabes sessions around Swin- 0844 8000 219. U N I S E X H A I R S A LO N don, including Thursday mornings www.tumbletots.com

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21-52 December 09.indd 32

Mike Buss former Army physical training instructor is on a mission to break twenty world endurance records in just 12 months. Mike, from Highworth, right, started his record breaking onslaught at the beginning of October in the Brunel Shopping Centre where he broke both the 24 hour and 48 hour world distance record on a treadmill carrying a 40lb pack. Mike’s next targets are the 7 day treadmill world record of 468.04 miles, running up the Empire State building, running continuously for 6 days without sleep and the spin bike marathon. Apart from world record attempts Mike is finding time to take on some of the UK’s toughest ultra races including the Trans Britain six his major aim is to raise £100,000 for day ultra (156miles). Beyond breaking world records Help for Heroes by Christmas 2010 and £1,000,000 by 2014 by continuing to break twenty world records each year and to take on many of the world’s toughest ultras. Mike’s drive to put himself Raziya Sacranie, always looking for through the physical pain comes innovative ways to share her deep from being injured by an IRA car passion for massage therapies as bomb which left him deaf in one ear a way to enhance health and well and medically discharged. Survival being both physically and emotion- as a civilian has been his toughest ally, now offers pamper parties at battle, including a time homeless home for groups of friends, family on the streets of London, but he remembered the commitment of or colleagues. Raziya gives a presentation ex-soldier Paddy Doyle who took and talk about the benefits of to breaking world fitness records massage, a short massage dem- and became the world’s fittest man . Mike felt he could do the same onstration and tells you why dark chocolate and red wine is good for and use it in a positive way for others in similar situations to himself. you. He has already broken over 30 Raziya said, “it’s a fantastic way to spend a night in with your girl- world records including continufriends. They’re great for celebrat- ously cycling on an indoor spin bike ing birthdays, hen nights or other for 96 hours. special occasions and the host re- Follow his progress at: www.mikebuss.com ceives a half price massage.” See the advert left for details of Help his fundraising at www.justgiving.com/mikes-worldrecords booking an event.

Give a party that heavenly touch

19/11/2009 12:32

swindonlink.com • December 2009

The perfect Christmas gift for mum

Prospect Hospice is launching a brand new fundraising event on Sunday 13 March when particpants will make a high speed crossing of the County Ground on a zip slide. Zip slide riders are being asked to try and raise £100 for the hospice. As it’s Mother’s Day this is a chance to give mum a Christmas present she’ll never forget. For details and to purchase a zip slide gift voucher call Hayley Millin at Prospect Hospice on 815142.

Get ready to walk or run for breast cancer

The 3rd Swindon Mad March Hare in aid of Wiltshire Breakthrough for Breast Cancer takes place on Sunday 7 March and you can be part of it. Starting at Greendown School in Grange Park, the 5k and 10k routes take entrants around Lydiard Park. Stroll, power walk or run, the event is a fun day and raises cash for a good cause. Download an application form from www.madmarchhare.org.uk Sponsored by Legal & General, Les Slinn Fitness, The Big Adventure Store, Acorn Press, Challenge Swindon, Swindon Link

Breakthrough boost in awareness month

The Wiltshire Group of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity are celebrating a busy and successful Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Music events, charity car wash, a football match, a swimathon, a ladies night and a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge raised £4,232. “It was a spectacular series of events,” said group chair Paul Parfrey. “We’d like to thank all the volunteers who made things happen and all the businesses who supported us.” Fundraising continues throughout the year. To offer to organise an event or volunteer your time to help others, mail Paul: paul.wbg@googlemail.com

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Walking New York

After several setbacks Mandy Martin and Val Phillips, members of Swindon Twin Peaks walking group, made it to New York to take part in the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday 1 November in aid of Walk the Walk.

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Tel: 01793 433338 709 Delta Ofﬁce Park, Welton Road, Swindon

www.thethymetreatmentrooms.co.uk Val, right, and Mandy, back left, celebrating with fellow Brit walker Sally Jane Murray

They started fundraising at a Halloween party last year and, even though Mandy had two operations in the intervening months, and Val suffered a back injury three weeks before leaving for New York, they were not going to be put off. Val, from Peatmoor, said, “we had been planning the marathon for such a long time that there was no way we were going to miss it. We were not able to train as much as we would have liked, but we were both just so glad to be there.” She added that she was grateful to Highworth Physiotherapy Clinic for straightening out her back before going. Mandy, from Upper Stratton, said she and Val wanted to send a huge thank you to all friends and supporters for their encouragement and ﬁnancial backing, and the companies which had donated prizes to their fundraising events. They walked under the banner of Walk the Walk, the charity associated with the London Moonwalk raising money for various breast cancer charities including Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Penny Brohn Cancer Care. www.swindontwinpeaks.org www.walkthewalk.org

21-52 December 09.indd 33

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20/11/2009 11:43

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Last chance to comment on Wiltshire plan for Swindon’s border

Wiltshire Council is still proposing to build another 3,000 homes to the north of West Swindon, close to Purton, as part of the preparation of its Core Strategy plans which will determine development up to 2026. Despite proposals for huge housing developments in different parts of the country being delayed by legal proceedings, planning authorities continue to go through a ‘consultation’ procedure to get these strategy plans in place. Swindon Council has agreed its core strategy which promotes major developments at Tadpole Farm, north of Oakhurst and Redhouse and to the east of the town. The Link has highlighted several times this year Wiltshire Council’s idea to allocate land next to Peatmoor and Sparcells at Ridgeway Farm, and further north at Pry Farm - beyond Swindon’s boundaries which could have huge effects on the infrastructure of West Swindon and the town more generally. The Pry Farm plan could have major impact on North Swindon as road access might have to be created from Oakhurst. Environmental campaigners in Purton strongly argue that it’s important to preserve the character and sustainability of the village so it does not become a suburb of Swindon. Before the Wiltshire 2026 Core Strategy is drawn up, the council is displaying its plans for the final time on: Monday 30 November, 1pm to 7pm: Wootton Bassett (Civic Centre); Thursday 3 December, 1pm to 7pm: Cricklade (town council office); Saturday 5 December, 11am to 2pm: Purton Village Hall Final comments on Wiltshire’s Core Strategy scheme should be submitted by 31 December. Richard Padgett of environmental group Purton Ps&Qs said, “it’s very important that as many people from Swindon take a look at the plans and express their views. What is proposed for Ridgeway Farm and Pry Farm will have a major effect on the town as well as the countryside close to Purton. Anything unsaid now will come back to haunt us.” • See The Link’s coverage of Wiltshire Council proposals for the Ridgeway and Pry farm sites at www.swindonlink.com • Initial work on building 200 houses at Moredon Bridge between Sparcells and North Swindon, off Moredon Road, has started.

21-52 December 09.indd 34

19/11/2009 11:17

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Crest demand 2,500 houses for Tadpole Farm

Crest Homes, which owns the land to the north of Tadpole Lane, adjacent to Oakhurst and Redhouse, is demanding that they be permitted to build 2,500 houses - 1,000 more than was originally conceived for the site. The number is revealed in the responses to the Swindon Core Strategy for development of 34,000 homes up to 2026 which was agreed by the council in October. Swindon Council originally set 1,500 homes for the site in the early drafts of the core strategy consultation. This was increased to 2,000 after developer comments. Now that public consultation on the Core Strategy is over, Crest is demanding a 25 per cent increase in the housing allocation. The plan is now with a planning inspector who is expected to produce a report by April. Crest supports its demand by stating that Tadpole Farm is the best site in Swindon to develop a large number of houses in a short time to meet government housing targets. The company claims the 12,000 home development to the east of the town (south of the A420) would be a complex project and would not provide houses at the expected rate. Subject to permissions Crest envisage starting to build in 2011/2012. The company proposes a busbased rapid transit scheme for Tadpole Farm which will transport people into the town centre in under 20 minutes. Therefore Crest say there is no reason to build the long awaited link road extending Thamesdown Drive to Great Western Way - first proposed when the North Swindon development was agreed in the early-1990s. The cost of building this has been estimated at over £100 million and Crest objects to making any financial contribution to it. Thamesdown Drive and Mead Way through West Swindon are already congested, but the Crest proposal ignores the fact that Priory Vale is not yet completed and 2,500 additional homes to the north will inevitably generate increased traffic volume. • The 3,000 homes to the west of Swindon in north Wiltshire - see left - will have a major impact on traffic volume if it were to go ahead. Read the Swindon Core Strategy www.swindon.gov.uk/environment/ forwardplanning/environment-forward-localdevelopmentframework/ corestrategy See The Link’s coverage in the April edition at www.swindonlink.com

21-52 December 09.indd 35

20/11/2009 14:48

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Moon bear supporters trek for sanctuary

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“Making life better ”

Three Swindon campaigners supporting the work to save moon bears have raised £6,500 for a new sanctuary in Vietnam. Sarah and Dave Chilvers from Police raided a farm Peatmoor, founders of the Animals where employees were Asia Foundation’s Swindon sup- extracting and selling port group, and their friend Louise bear bile to Korean tourWack completed a week long trek ists. In September two through the highlands and jungles Vietnamese undercover of Vietnam in October, ending with journalists exposed this one farm; it was catering a visit to the bear rescue centre. There they renewed contact for up to 40 bus loads of with charity founder Jill Robinson tourists every month. “The bears are kept in who works with the Chinese and Vietnamese government to close tight cages with a catheter permanently inserted down bear farms. “We’re extremely committed into the abdomen. The to helping Animals Asia stop the conditions they are kept barbaric treatment of bears,” said in are terrible and the Sarah. “Just before we arrived for bears become infected the trek Vietnam’s Environmental and slowly die. We want Louise, Dave and Sarah at the rescue centre to do all we can to help Animals Asia persuade governSarah and Dave got involved ments that this cruelty must stop. with AAF in 2006 after hearing Jill “Bear bile is not necessary in Robinson give a heart-rending talk traditional medicines; natural al- about the plight of moon bears. ternatives have been found.” The following year they organised Sarah, Dave and Louise trekked a huge fundraiser at the Pagoda with twelve other Animal Asia Palace attended by Jill, and recently supporters who raised £30,000 organised a dog walk around Shaw between them. Forest in September. “It was a real bonding experience A charity curry night at the as we helped each other face our Bombay Lounge in late September fears of spiders, heights, sleeping raised £700. on the floor and filthy toilets along Sarah hopes to have a Swindon the way,” said Sarah. “Seeing the AAF group web site available in bears in their new home made it December. In the meantime, to get all worthwhile. involved, mail: sarahchilvers66@ “The sanctuary has saved 28 hotmail.com bears, but there are hundreds in www.animalsasia.org farms across Vietnam.”

Care - always

Communication - we listen

Thank you from Swindon Guide Dogs

Swindon Guide Dogs would like to thank everybody who has donated to our charity during 2009, writes chairman Alan Fletcher.

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21-52 December 09.indd 36

Alan, left, with children and parents from Orchid Vale Primary School at the Swindon half marathon in October

We have had a good year with our fundraising which is all down to your kindness and generosity. Guide Dogs rely solely on donations and legacies and receive no government funding. We have twenty working guide dogs in the Swindon area and it costs our charity £10 a day to support these partnerships. This pays for food, vets bills, training and breeding, an annual cost of £73,000 just in our area alone. And the only

charge to a guide dog owner is 50p for legal transfer of ownership. If you would like someone with a guide dog to come and talk to your group in 2010, or would be willing to assist with fundraising, please do contact me. From all at Swindon Guide Dogs, may I wish you and your family a merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. Alan can be reached on 827589 or: shiralan@fletcas.freeserve.co.uk

19/11/2009 11:19

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Spooky ending for fastest story

Year 9 pupils from ﬁve secondary schools contributed to the fastest horror story in the west during November’s Youth Festival of Literature which brought authors to the town and inspired young people to delve more deeply into books. Five youngsters from Greendown composed the story’s ending after the beginning was written by pupils at Swindon Academy, followed by contributions The Greendown rapid thinking story tellers f ro m D o rc a n , Kingsdown, Warneford and Com- good to talk about what might monweal. happen next and write it together.” Fastest story coordinator Ali Jenny Eagle, Greendown’s learnSlaven-Holder from Nova Hreod ing resource manager, was very said that horror is the preferred pleased with how the pupils regenre of many teenage readers, so sponded to the festival activities. the challenge was to create a scary “It’s so exciting to watch young story. The pupils did not disappoint, people engage with stories and with gory goings-on, mysterious books and champion their favoustrangers and a very spooky ending. rites among their peers,” she said. “Being the last in the the chain “The fastest story is such a great meant we had lots of questions to challenge for pupils, that we’re also answer in the ending,” said Green- doing a version of it between three down pupil Tarquin Pryor. primary schools, Oliver Tomkins, “It was a bit random, but it was Moredon and Nythe, who will each easier to use others’ ideas than have get the opportunity to produce to think of them all on our own,” their own illustrations for their said fellow contributor Megan story too.” Knowles. A printed version of the comOliver John also appreciated the pleted story was circulated amongst collaborative approach. “It was participating writers.

21-52 December 09.indd 37

19/11/2009 11:19

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Historic trees pollarded in Shaw

The iconic poplar trees at Lower Shaw Farm opposite Brook Field Primary School have ﬁnally had to be cut back to less than half their height as they were becoming dangerously top heavy. Farm resident Andrea Hirsch-Holland admitted that it is rather sad to see them being cut back as they are such a feature of the area. “It’s better for the trees in the long run, as it increases their life-span. Pollarding is a north Wiltshire tradition; it’s good to see the process happening here on the farm.” There are four poplar trees on the site, three of which have been pollarded and one which has been trimmed. “It took three days per tree, so it was quite a job for the tree climbers,” said Andrea. Andrea’s son Jake said the trees had been in the West Swindon landscape for nearly a century. “Poplar wood is the best sort for making matches as it burns readily. “In the early 20th Century the match company Bryant It isn’t known whether the com& May gave local farmers poplar pany ever did come back to reclaim trees to grow, with the intention of their wood from this area’s poplar buying back the wood for match trees. Could anybody shed any production.” light on this?

Get fit and have some fun cutting down trees

Eco club unveils fitness trail

The eco-club at Brook Field Primary School marked its ﬁrst anniversary in late October by unveiling a new trim trail in the playground.

Eco-club members on the trim trail which is so busy that children have to be timetabled when they can use it to prevent overcrowding

Club members are working hard to ensure awareness of climate change and the importance of saving energy is embedded in the school so that it will qualify for gold eco-school status. Children and parents took part in a walk to school week, promoted ‘switch-off fortnight’ in November and gave the Christmas fair a green theme. Cycle to school maps are being drawn for each class, and the school will learn about Water Aid in January and hold a big tidy-up in February. Organising teacher Rachel Bartlett spent half term at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales picking up ideas and learning how to develop innovative educational eco-activities at the school.

Taw Valley Halt - here we come

The Swindon and Cricklade Railway Society has started to relay over a mile of track from Blunsdon to Moulden Hill so that it can be opened to the public in early 2011, to mark the ﬁftieth anniversary of the closure of the Midland & South Western Junction Railway and the 175th year since the start of the GWR.

Some trees grow better and last longer if they are regularly cut using traditional woodland management techniques. The Peatmoor Community Woodland Group meets on the ﬁrst Sunday of the month, 10am to 1pm, to manage Peatmoor Copse by the lagoon. Coppicing the trees also encourages a wide variety of bird, mammal and insect life. New volunteers are always needed to participate in the group. Mince pies will be on offer to anybody who joins in on 6 December. Children are welcome but have to be accompanied by an adult. For details call Roger Ogle on 608840 or mail: roger_ogle@mac.com

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Dave Peacey with railway volunteer Chris Reynolds and sleepers ready to be laid under the track down to Moulden Hill

The station will be called Taw Valley Halt and will be a temporary structure until funds are available to construct a permanent station as part of the facilities at Moulden Hill. When complete the steam railway will be able to offer a six mile round trip. In the meantime the society will be running Santa specials from Blunsdon Station every weekend until Christmas from 11am to 4pm, and special night journeys on Saturday 12 December between 6pm and 8pm. “We’ve been running the Christmas Santa Special for nearly a decade,” said society trustee and building and works manager Dave Peacey. “We deck the carriages with Christmas decorations and trans-

form the engine shed into a fantastic grotto. And every child receives a quality Christmas present. “With the steady expansion of our catering and hospitality facilities, private events at the railway are becoming increasingly popular, and this festive season we’re also offering a special Christmas menu in our licensed restaurant.” Whilst new rails are being laid towards Moulden Hill Dave is appealing for people not to trespass on the railway line which is not a right of way. Volunteers are needed to ensure the railway can expand and cater for more people. To help mail the membership secretary: marygra@ talktalk.net www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

19/11/2009 11:20

swindonlink.com • December 2009 Swindon Allotment & Leisure Gardens Association Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month, 7.30pm at Gorse Hill Community Centre, Chapel Street. Non-members are welcome and admission is free. The speaker on 21 January is Helen Senior who will talk about Willow Wrestling. The annual seed potato day is held on Saturday 23 January, 10.30am to 3pm, at the same venue. Over 80 different varieties will be on sale as well as onion sets, shallots and much more. For details call Mary Reeve on 534378.

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19/11/2009 11:33

Fin

swindonlink.com • December 2009 LINKjulyECOLINKp4p.pdf

12/7/09

21:55:36

SWINDON DELIVERIES

Take it easy on learners say DSA

With around 300 driving schools and instructors in a 25 mile radius of Swindon, and the nearest test centres - after Swindon - being in Chippenham, Newbury, and Oxford, it’s not surprising that West Swindon residents feel learner drivers are constantly being taken for a ride around their homes. After the November Link re- the DSA to suported concerns that the volume pervise learner of learner drivers using the area is drivers during posing a danger, with some routes lessons. They seeming unsuitable, whilst others will be mindare constantly used, the Driving ful not only of Standards Agency (DSA) spokes- the safety of the person responded, “while learner learners and all drivers may obstruct or slow traffic other road uson occasions, we would not expect ers, but also the any of their actions to result in safety of themdangerous situations. Approved selves and their driving instructors are licensed by vehicles.” Commenting on the test route, they addLearning under pressure on a bus route in Freshbrook ed: ‘as Swindon’s multi-purpose test centre is instructor Alan Collict says there in West Swindon, all driving test was no requirement for driving ✶ All cars welcome routes start and finish in this area. instructors to follow set test routes ✶ cam belt replacement However, they do pass through - he doesn’t and he said it should other areas and there are posters in not be necessary. “It is however es✶ engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds the waiting room asking instructors sential that pupils are instructed on ✶ electrical fault code reading to avoid teaching manoeuvres on the techniques to negotiate potential Open BOOK A any of the published test routes if hazards in those areas. Driving ✶ MOT repairs 8.30am WINTER CHECK 5.30pm tests sometimes require that learner possible.” ✶ vehicle sales James Aldred, of Liskeard Way, drivers perform manoeuvres safely NOW ✶ servicing to light commercials Freshbrook, is still unhappy. “I under pressure created by other see drivers struggling to reverse road users and this will often inCall for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards round corners, delaying traffic and clude bus routes. 39A Station Road, creating obstructions on a main bus “In fact, residents should try to route. The DSA is refusing to take be patient with learner drivers and Wootton Bassett ownership of the issue, saying they perhaps be more aware themselves Tel: (01793) 840667 cannot control where instructors when driving in West Swindon and take learner drivers to prepare for further afield. “Quite often, other drivers cause their driving test but it’s obvious they’re going to be taken across hazardous safety issues by being the test routes. The DSA needs to very impatient with learners, frebe more creative about resolving quently speeding and overtaking in dangerous places or driving this issue.” However, West Swindon based extremely close behind.”

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19/11/2009 11:34

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19/11/2009 11:34

swindonlink.com • December 2009

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Maoist revolutionaries block Nepal orphanage plan

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Think of Angel’s children this Christmas A plan by Rosa and Ian Matheson from Highworth to build a brand new orphanage in Nepal has been set back after it became clear on a recent trip to survey the site that their lives and those of the children they wanted to rehouse would be in danger. Rosa and Ian’s bid to help former Nepali mountain and trekking guide ‘Angel’ Bikram Shahi provide better care for the 22 orphaned children he and his wife have taken under their wing has been featured in The Link several times this year, and Toothill Primary School is supporting the fundraising effort. On return from a trip to Nepal, Rosa said they had to quickly change plans. “The conditions Angel’s family were in were Ian and Rosa Matheson with Ben Wallace dreadful when we first met them at the Boudha Stupa in Kathmandu in the Spring; the children were constantly ill and unhappy because The money raised by Toothill Prithey never knew where their next mary School head Martyn Cowell meal would come from. running the Swindon half marathon “This time we went to Nepal with 5k, and fundraising by other supBen Wallace, a chartered surveyor, porters, is being spent on buying with a plan to build an ecologically furniture and bedding. sustaining orphanage and farm, “Once settled in, our next endeabringing water to the village at the vour will be to get the children into same time. school,” said Rosa. ‘Whilst govern“But once we arrived in Kath- ment schools are comparatively ��

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Ian, Rosa and Ben with some of the children at Angel’s orphanage

mandu it was obvious that the political situation had greatly deteriorated in the last six months. Political and civil unrest had flared up again and the Maoist rebels had seized the land we had identified for building. Local contacts advised not to visit the village and to reconsider the site of the new orphanage. “Angel himself had been threatened in the past by the Maoists and they were harassing him over the proposed building works. It was clear that we could not place him or his family in danger.” However because of the conflict there has been population migration to the capital and land prices in Kathmandu match those in London. The group looked at twenty houses and signed a three year lease on the one they thought suitable. Before Angel’s family moves in on 1 December, a well has to be sunk, whilst security and electric wiring has to be improved.

low-cost, they are not well run and are often closed at short notice. We want to register the children in a private school with a good reputation. Education is the route to a better future and that is what we want to give the children.” Rosa is appealing for readers to put Angel’s Orphanage on your Christmas gift list. Your ‘gift’ (donation) will not just be for Christmas, but for life, she says. To help: • attend The Friends of Angel’s Orphanage Craft Fair on 5 December in the Council Rooms, Highworth; • go to the Artsite Gallery, Theatre Square, Swindon until 23 December to see paintings by Angel’s children and local artists; • send a cheque to Friends of Angel’s Orphanage to Rosa Matheson, 28 The Willows, Highworth, SN6 7PG. • £300 was raised at a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge on 18 November.

20/11/2009 15:59

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Cadets face up to Everest to support Help for Heroes

A group of Army cadets from Wiltshire are heading for Mount Everest next October and have set themselves the target of raising £8,000 for Help for Heroes. The eight youngsters and four adult instructors are awaiting permission from the Army for a 14 day trek to Everest base camp which will mark the 150th anniversary of the Army Cadet Force (ACF). Staff sergeant instructor Beverley Cubbon from Abbey Meads said the planning has been going on for six months. “It’s a huge challenge to organise this project, not least raising the £20,000 needed to get us to Nepal. We’re within sight of our target and once we’ve covered the cost we’ll be going all out to raise a further £8,000 for Help for Heroes.” The group will have to be very Four of the eight cadets with adult instructors at the Bombay Lounge where they ﬁt, hiking for up to six hours a raised £350 from a charity curry night, from left Lt Mark Calaz, Daniel Hannan, Sophie Scotford, Staff sergeant instructor Beverley Cubbon, Heather Brickell, Comday, much of it over 4,000 metres, pany sergeant major instructor Richard Hearn, Dipendra Pun. climbing through two passes at special reason for signing up. “My by Wiltshire ACF commander 5,500 metres. Sophie Scotford from Lower father served in the Gurkha regi- Major Pete White, with Lt Mandy Stratton said she was excited by ment and I’ve wanted to join the Rowley remaining in Britain to the idea when it was put to units Army from a young age. I grew up ensure continuity and coordination. across Wiltshire. “We do a lot of in Nepal where I could see Everest To assist with fundraising, mail: expeditions in the cadets, but going in the distance from our village. Wilts-acf-face-up-to-everest-2010@ to Everest sounded like an oppor- Although I’ve experienced high hotmail.co.uk tunity to do something amazing.” altitude, it will be a tough test - for Boost their Help for Heroes fund Daniel Hannan from Abbey all of us.” at: www.justgiving.com/CadetsFaFundraising over the next few Meads said, “I’ve done quite a few ceUpToEverestForH4H long hikes, but trekking over high months includes sponsored events, mountains will be something spe- a Valentine’s disco, a live music Offers for a Gerrard shirt? cial. It will be a bit different to our gig, a quiz night and supermarket Bid for a blue England signed bag packing. usual expeditions to Wales.” Steven Gerrard shirt donated by The group will be accompanied Nationwide. Mail the address above. Dipendra Pun from Walcot has a

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20/11/2009 11:51

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21-52 December 09.indd 44

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20/11/2009 11:54

Wayne’s

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21-52 December 09.indd 45

Walling • 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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For reliability and value for money call Simon on: 07798 684215 or 01793 829526

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• • • • • • • •

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         

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Give us a try, for a free no obligation quote

countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk

TILEﬁx

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

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228912

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Including Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating

Call Pete

Want your wall or ﬂoor tiles ﬁtted?

doctor glass

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks

Call: 01793 852739 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671

ELECTRICIAN

& Property Renovation Services Fuse board upgrade, Rewiring, New sockets, Lighting, Cooker & Shower installations No job too small Kitchen & Bathroom reﬁts and anything else in between Free quotations and no call out charge Call Iain on 01793 851374 or 07860 689695 e-mail: iain@dixiain.co.uk Part P Approved Contractor

dixiain

19/11/2009 11:38

BATHROOMS

MERLIN

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& Heating

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FLOORING

P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet • Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only • Commercial/ domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 17 years experience Also minor electrical work undertaken CSCS Cardholder Call now for a free, at home consultation

01793 493119 07970 865883

A CHANGE OF COLOUR Established Swindon decorator experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating

Domestic, commercial & letting Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues’ Competitive rates (no VAT) Excellent references Registered and recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association ✓ Age Concern (Wiltshire) approved decorator ✓ Full public liability insurance ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Free advice and quotations contact Darryl Bevan on 01793 497461 or 07919 671307

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Call Peter on 01793 878732 or FREEPHONE 0800 6118144

• Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Bathrooms & Tiling • Power showers • Outside taps All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

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Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

ABC BUILDERS

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

 Alterations  Decking  Patios  Extensions  Block Paving Driveways No job too small For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm

DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

DECORATOR MARK PONTING PAINTING & DECORATING Inc. WALL PAPERING

Domestic and Commercial

All work guaranteed

Free Quotations

Call Andy: 01793 729354

or 07900 835116

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HEATING & PLUMBING

HEATING & PLUMBING RJ PEARCE

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation

BUILDING SERVICES

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439

E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com

215153

20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

203455

MAINTENANCE

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES

Brian Jones Plastering Services

KTL

Semi-retired Plumber

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions

Call Andrew on 07718 022201

• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •

Dec09 Repair & Improv.indd 46

✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

External rendering Plastering two coat Re-skimming Dry lining Coving New or repairs

Tel: 01793 725834 Mobile: 07976 572905

Plastering

Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes Floor screeding Small building works No job too small

Home: 01793 709811 Mobile: 07778 665115

24hr emergency call out • Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Complete bathrooms refitted • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in • Radiators changed

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

19/11/2009 12:48

BUILDING SERVICES

Galaxy Construction Ltd

Paul Rhind

    

Extensions Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving

For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

ain te

REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

FREE ESTIMATES

Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043

ID PR

UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Rooﬁng & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

ELECTRICIAN De cor ato r

DECORATOR

Bathroom suites and kitchens ﬁtted

HOME MAINTENANCE G R SERVICES Painting and decorating Carpentry services Grounds maintenance Turﬁng, fencing, patios Kitchen installations Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

Arc Electrical Services Ltd 01793 872054 0770 480 1959

arcelectrics@aol.com

BEAT THE RECESSION

10% discount on all work completed before end of January 2010 • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • 24hr call out

HOME MAINTENANCE

Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

• Plastering • Carpentry • Garden Maintenance, • Decorating, Coving • Groundwork • Tiling • Bathroom & Kitchen Installation • Fencing & Patios • Power Jetting • Building, installing partition walls, loft boarding & repairs Competitive Rates, Flexible Hours, Reliable, No job too small

For a free no obligation quote call Gary on

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❇❇❇

Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

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CARPENTRY

J S Property Services Home & Garden Improvements General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance

Free estimates Call Jamie on 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN

SAFE & SHAW

ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

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Steve George

Handyman

HOUSEMARTIN

Dec09 Repair & Improv.indd 47

❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate ﬂoors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and ﬁtted

(Household Maintenance)

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Services

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Call 01793 602540 for details

19/11/2009 12:57

ACCOUNTANCY

Lynette White MAAT

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OVEN CLEANING

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING

The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

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A personal service for small businesses & individuals

FREE initial consultation available evenings and weekends

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Chris Payne

Aerials & Satellite Systems ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭

Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points

No call out charge

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Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724

Same day/next day service

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COMPUTER SUPPORT

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Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

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We can clean your home for you and offer a quality service • Weekly, fortnightly & one-off cleans • Fully insured and pet friendly • Reliable and trustworthy • References available • Local business • Ironing service also available For a free quotation or further information call Mandy on

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans, Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

07955 374 201

Installation & Repairs New Doors • Automation No Obligation Quotes Est. 1981 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon SN1 5DR Tel: (01793) 618499 or 513796

Rodents, Wasps Cluster Flies, Insects Ants, Fleas, Moths!! We get them under control Unmarked Vans Domestic & Commercial For a free quote call

07765 405507 01793 339109

Why go anywhere else? When we’ll come to you.....

✻ Free home & business visits ✻ Jargon free advice & support ✻ Upgrades/repairs ✻ All parts & labour guaranteed ✻ Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs •

Showroom:

PEST CONTROL

Com Master’s PC Repairs

GARAGE DOORS

swindondoorservices@ btinternet.com

Tel: 01793 469300

Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Estate, Swindon SN2 2PQ

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

RECYCLING

TWB SCRAP

Scrap cars removed All metals removed Factories cleared

All Free of Charge Call: 01793 821592 Or 07831 852617 FULLY LICENSED

Tel 01793 878176 • Fax 01793 882639 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

REMOVALS

White Van Man SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR £20! Great house removal prices

Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed 7 DAYS A WEEK, UP TO 9PM Fully insured. Call for a free quote

Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

49 49

BOOK-KEEPING Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

COMPUTER SUPPORT Computer problems? Let us help We provide a range of computer services for both home and business including: • PC repairs and maintenance • System upgrades, networking • Custom built computers • Windows home server installs • Virus removal • Data recovery • Internet solutions With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

Tel: 01793 325685

OVEN CLEANING Ovens, ranges, agas, hobs extractors and microwaves

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07766 418718

or email: oven@enlan.co.uk

SCRAP METAL

RODDERS SCRAP METAL All metals removed FREE of charge Washing machines, cookers, microwaves etc. Sorry no fridges or freezers Scrap cars collected FREE of charge

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

21-52 December 09.indd 49

Prizes for art to beat anti-social behaviour

Swindon Community Safety Partnership is offering a DS lite, iPod shuffle and best artwork which illustrates different aspects of anti-social behaviour. There are two age categories: 11 to 14 years and 15 to 16 years. The winning artwork from each age category will be used on new CSP advice and information leaflets about anti-social behaviour which will be distributed throughout Swindon and read by members of the public, including victims of anti-social behaviour. Entrants can choose to illustrate just one aspect of anti-social behaviour, such as graffiti, littering, bullying, The Keeping Swindon Safe bus visited West Swindon Centre during misuse of drugs and ‘Not in my Neighbourhood Week’ at the end of October. Julie Williams alcohol or noise nui- with Megan, Natalie Botwright and Callum Anderson were provided sance, or a combination with community safety information and advice by crime reduction of behaviours. officer Roland Thacker, Neighbourhood Environment Safety Officer The winners will be Jane Dudley and Graham Weller of Wiltshire Fire & Rescue

book vouchers for the announced at an awards ceremony at Swindon Town Football Club on 28 January. Entries must be submitted, presented portrait not landscape, on plain white A4 paper, with name, age, school and academic year written clearly on the back of the entry. Enter via your school or send entries by 5pm on Friday 18 December, to: Swindon CSP Art Competition, Swindon C ommu n i t y S a f e t y Partnership, Premier House, Station Road, Swindon SN1 1TZ. Terms and conditions are available at: www. swindon-csp.org.uk

‘Outstanding leadership’ pulls Nova Hreod out of Ofsted scrutiny

An Ofsted inspection of Nova Hreod School in mid-October has declared it is a ‘rapidly improving school’ and no longer requires a Notice to Improve. Delighted headteacher Julie Tridgell said the outcome was very pleasing given that the inspection had taken place against a new, much tougher framework compared to the last inspection in June 2008 which had set terms for significant improvements at the school. Other points made in the report: • There has been an increase in the number of good (grade 2) judgements since the last inspection (16 in this inspection compared to 2 in in June 2008); • Students say they are safe and happy and that the school listens to them and addresses their concerns; • Students are proud of the school and at times the inspection team were ‘mobbed’ by young people Julie Tridgell with Nova Hreod school councillors Paige White, Kate Lloyd, Luke to tell them of their pride of being Waldon, Lydia Roberts, Fraser Gingell, Callum McLean, Chloe Birch a Nova Hreod student; • Behaviour is rapidly improving; teacher has provided outstanding improve our provision further.” The report comes after a long leadership, instigating a number of • Attendance is good; • Significant progress has been changes that are leading to signifi- period of Ofsted scrutiny of Nova made in a very short period of time; cant improvement. Weaknesses in Hreod which was put on the • Nova Hreod is developing a management identified previously government’s national challenge culture of high expectation and has been addressed and the school programme because fewer than 30 per cent of pupils achieved 5+ GCSE is improving rapidly. challenge; Mrs Tridgell said, “the success A to C grades, including English • Nova Hreod is very close to outstanding judgements on care, has come from teamwork right and Maths. The September 2008 Link, followguidance and support, on the across the school and beyond - every quality of the curriculum and the person who works at Nova Hreod, ing that summer’s 35 per cent 5+ A school’s engagement with parents. all the students and their parents - to C passes (inc. English and Maths), The inspection team congratu- have contributed to the inspector’s reported Mrs Tridgell introducing new systems to boost performance lates Nova Hreod for making judgement. “We’re very pleased. I would like and a can-do culture at Nova Hreod. significant and rapid progress in In July this year 43 per cent of a relatively short period of time to express my thanks to the parents and points out that in the fourteen who contributed to the inspection students achieved 5+A to C grades months since she arrived, the head- and for their comments on how to (inc. English and Maths).

19/11/2009 13:28

swindonlink.com • December 2009

Santa swops sleigh for fire engine

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Rev Mike departs North in January

The vicar of North Swindon Mike Haslam says goodbye to his comThe firefighters from Westlea fire munity in January as he heads off to Somerset - after four years of station will again be taking Santa being a faithful friend to people living in the area. for a ride atop their 1946 vintage “When I ﬁrst arrived fire engine around parts of West my priority was to build Swindon, collecting for the Fire community,” said Mike. Fighters’ Charity. “The main challenge in Subject to emergencies, in De- the new estates is a very cember they will be touring: high and quick turnover

Sunday 13th, 4pm to 8pm, Westlea; of population. A lot of Monday 14th, 5.30pm to 8pm, people don’t really live Eastleaze and Shaw (off Cartwright here: they work elsewhere and this is just a Drive); place where they sleep.” Tuesday 15th, 5.30pm to 8pm, Mike sees his ministry T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 Sparcells, Peatmoor, Nine Elms as taking faith to the peoPO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ ple rather than expecting them to come to church OAKHURST CARPENTRY services. “People come to & LOCKSMITHS us for baptisms and wedLocal locksmith, very competitive dings but that can’t be all rates, no call out charge, Dressmaking, Alterations and it’s about. A large part is all aspects of carpentry Repairs, Bespoke Costumes going where people are Free security surveys Also Furnishing – Curtains, Cushions and Blinds etc. - at work, at school and Mike Haslam with pupils at Taw Hill’s St Francis Emergency no: 07734 253189 Friendly, reliable service email enquiries to: in the community. Much Church of England Primary School where Contact Jean on 07887 600319 oakhurstlocks@aol.com of what I have done is he is a faithful friend and foundation governor schools work - they’re the real focal point across the area. At a year to replace the Victorian roof Red Oaks I am a Faithful Friend - a of the church, making it watertight MONUMENTAL STONEMASON school chaplain - where I talk with for future generations. DISC SERVICES New memorials - Additional inscriptions teachers, children and parents. I’m Mike, who is married to the Old memorials cleaned and renovated Due to increased volume of work there to listen during difﬁcult times vicar of Purton Rev Jane, will be Free estimates • BRAMM accredited we require a senior engineer. and celebrate when things are go- taking some time out as she starts Over 25 years’ experience High starting salary to the right person. ing well.” her new job as vicar to a group of Tel: 01793 861035 or 07935 309644 Send CV to Mike’s prayer that communities rural churches in Somerset. While email: terry.winter@hotmail.co.uk PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA13TJ would be built in the area is being he looks for another job he hopes to answered. “The churches together catch up on his painting and explore across North Swindon are having how he can get involved with Street On Thames Avenue an impact that is far greater than Pastors in Somerset - where trained the people we see on a Sunday. Christians are on hand to assist pub next door to It’s happening and it’s wonderful and party-goers after hours. Morrisons how people are coming forward as Mike said it was unusual to have Contact: community leaders saying they will two vicars married to each other but start things.” not unique. And although there are Revd Raymond Adams St Andrews Church, an old logistical issues, it means they can Tel: 634258 church building which used to serve both understand each other’s work. a tiny farming community, now Together with their four young serves nearly 20,000 people - with children - aged from 2 years to 9 up to 100 people packing Sunday years old - they will miss Swindon Sunday Services morning family services. However but are looking forward to a new 9am Traditional communion service traditional evening services have challenge. 11am Eventful, contemporary worship been retained catering for all needs. Rev Mike takes his last service Another highlight of Mike’s ten- on 3 January. with children’s groups meeting ure has been the £100,000 raised in www.nschurch.org.uk ANYTHING TRANSFERRED ONTO DVD DISC Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

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St. John’s Haydon Wick

www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

Join us in worship on Sunday mornings

Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Oﬃce on 874221 Email: partnershipoﬃce@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church

21-52 December 09.indd 50

19/11/2009 11:44

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This course will cover skills needed for all English GCSE Language exams. All exam boards catered for! Topics covered will include: ★ Non- fiction comprehension ★ Writing to argue, advise or persuade ★ Poems from different cultures ★ Writing to describe, explain or inform ★ Prose fiction for WJEC ★ Writing to analyse, review, comment WJEC The course specifically targets requirements of the exam paper and practises candidates’ skills at essays, creative writing and reading responses. Working with past papers and mark schemes, looking at sample answers, students will know the expectations of their targeted grade!

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19/11/2009 11:42

g n i t a k Ice S at Christmas

Monday 21st December

Sunday 27th December

Classical Christmas Session *

10.00-15.00 Playing traditional Christmas songs to get you into the Christmas spirit. All ages’ welcome.

Tuesday 22nd December Classical Christmas Session * 10.00-15.00

Santa’s Christmas Party

16.30-18.00 A family session with Christmas tunes, there is also a chance to meet the man himself.

Sub Zero Christmas Party

19.30-21.30 A Sub Zero night with a twist, Skate away to a night full of funky tunes, fun & games and brightly coloured disco lights and lasers. Aimed at the over 12’s.

Family Christmas Party 14.45-16.45

Ideal sessions for families to enjoy skating together, lots of fun, games and prizes. Playing traditional Christmas music and chart music.

Monday 28th December Classical Christmas Session * 10.00-15.00

Wildcats Game

Face Off is at 4.00pm The Swindon Wildcats take on Romford Raiders in the English Premier League.

Tuesday 29th December

Wednesday 23rd December

Classical Christmas Session *

Kids Christmas Session

10.00-15.00

Traditional Skaters Christmas Ball J53226/09

10.00-12.00

19.30-21.30 Don your best ice dancing outts for this Christmas themed traditional skating session. There are dance intervals throughout the night. (No Ice hockey skates allowed on this session).

10.00-15.00

16.30-18.00 Family disco session with Christmas tunes especially for parents with younger children.

Wednesday 30th December Classical Christmas Session * 10.00-15.00

Thursday 24th December

Thursday 31st December

Classical Christmas Session *

10.00-12.00

Christmas Eve Party

12.15-15.00 The last chance to skate before the big day, fun, games and lots of on the spot giveaways, playing past and present chart music. All ages welcome.

* Christmas Offer Learn to Skate Come to one of our Classic Christmas sessions (marked with a star) for a chance to have a FREE group lesson with one of our expert Ice Coaches,Lessons are free to the rst 20 people registering on the day – 10 per lesson. Lesson times are: 10.15 – 10.30 or 10.30 – 10.45 An adult must accompany children under the age of 8.

21-52 December 09.indd 52

10.00-15.00

New Years Eve Party

12.15-15.00 Skate out 2009, say hello to the new year at this festive session fun, games and lots of on the spot giveaways, playing past and present chart music. All ages welcome.

Centre closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL. www.swindon.gov.uk/xmasice

01793 445566 20/11/2009 14:25