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Over 1,000 cycles usually in stock Also good stock of reconditioned bikes

96- 99 Manchester Road, Swindon

No. 107 â€˘ February 1991 â€˘ Circulation 10,500 21

(0793) 534907 & 513705

Meet the people who run Thamesdown Council leaders to listen to YOUR views at meeting on 7 February West Swindon people have the chance to tell senior members of Thamesdown Borough Council what they think of the services the council provides. The Council is holding a series of public consultation meetings around the Borough and West Swindon has been chosen for the first one. It takes place on Thursday 7 February, 7.30p.m. at the Link Centre. An opinion survey carried out byThamesdown thmughmeLink Magazine fifteen months ago indicated that residents had a positive view of West Swindon. But a conference of community workers and residents last November showed that many people living

in the area experience great difficulties. The Leader of the Council Tony Mayer, who will be chairing the meeting on 7 February, said that West Swindon had been chosen for the first meeting because it was a self-contained part of the town where work had already taken place to investigate local opinions. "The recent survey and conference revealed interesting results and we wanted to follow them up by giving residents the opportunity to tell senior councillors and officers what they think," he said. "The survey showed that for many, West Swindon is a 'good' and 'friendly' place to live. Obvi-

ously not everybody thinks this, we know there are still lots of improvements to be made. The meeting on 7 February is the chance for local people to state their case for doing better." Councillor Mayer wanted to stress however that Tha mes-down was not in a position to make improvements quickly for a number of reasons. "The Council does not have responsibility for all the things that affect people's lives. For exa mple, education and youth services are a Wiltshire County Council function. Also, because of Government controls, the Council is more restricted now than ever before in what it can spend.

Katie takes trip of a lifetime Brave five year old Katie Orme from Sparcells has just returned from a memorable trip to Disney World in Florida. Last September Katie and her mum Julie said a big thank you through The Link to all who had wished her well in her fight against a rare kind of children's cancer. After having intensive chemothrapy treatment last year, Katie is being given a rest before a new round of tests which will hopefully see her clear of the disease. Katie's trip with her mother at the end of January came about after the 'Make a Wish Foundation' made her wish to visit Disney World come true. The charity aims to help terminally ill children have their wish of a lifetime. Lone parent Julie said the last few weeks had been wonderful. "We've had some tough times since Katie was diagnosed. She was very low after her treatment sessions. But she's been so strong recently that she's been able to start school for a few days a week. "We had a lovely Christmas and the trip to America was amazing.

The Foundation organised absolutely everything, quite unbelievable. We stayed in the Holiday Inn Kids Village and visited all the sights." Katie said her choice of wish was easy. "I like Disney Club on TV and I wanted to see Mickey Mouse." Her chemotherapy treatment is thought to have been successful, but a series of scans and tests at the

Surrey Royal Marsden Hospital will tell if the cancer is still active. If tests are negative, Katie will undergo a final three weeks of intensive chemotherapy to destroy any remaining cancerous cells. If it is still present, Katie will receive a new targeted treatment which concentrates onthediseased areas. Julie would like to thank those who continue to pray for Katie's full recovery.

Off to fantasy land. Katie and Julie Orme getting ready for their trip to see Mickey Mouse and all his friends

Tony Mayer, leader of Thamesdown Council

"We certainly want to do a great deal to improve the quality of life of people across Thamesdown, but only time will tell whether we can achieve our aims. "At present we are stocktaking by gathering in the views of people across the Borough. Whilst the Council may not have responsibility for all services, I guarantee that all the points raised at the meeting will be taken up with the appropriate departments and authorities, and a reply given. The important thing is that members of the public come along to the meeting to express their views." The meeting on 7 February will be attended by the Leader and Deputy Leader, local councillors and officers of Thamesdown.

For Mums, Dads, Wives and Husbands with loved ones in the Gulf, the newly formed West Swindon Gulf Support Group is here to help. Telephone Babs Harris on 490769.

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Itwillbe a chance to talk to people already involved in schemes in the area, to find out what they do and how effective they are in fighting crime. There will also be advice on how to set them up with assistance from the police. John Maloney would like help from other Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators. He can be contacted on 872541.

P.C. Promotion Well known beat policeman P.C. Trevor Canton who has covered Freshbrook and Grange Park for some years has been promoted to sergeantand moved totheSwindon South sub-division. Superintendent Bill Ptyke, divisional commander for Swindon North commended P.C. Carlton for

his work in West Swindon, in particular his enthusiasm for helping residents start Neighbourhood Watch Schemes. P.C. Carlton was working on a road safety review and his work is being picked up by P.C. Barry Penicud. Letter of appreciation, page 22.

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With quite 94 Neighbourhood Watch Schemes already established in West Swindon, a local coordinator is making a big push to get more residents interested in setting them up. John Maloney from Westlea is organising a display about Neighbourhood Watch Schemes at the West Swindon Centre on Saturday 2 March, from 10a.m. to 3p.m.

Midland Bank word winner Well over one hundred people entered the Westlea Midland Bank branch Word search Competition in the DecemberLink, somefromas far afield as The Wirral, Kent and Sheffield, and several from the Bristol area. Nicola Bucknell's entry was the first out of the bag and she won a Midland Bank No. I Savings Account, with £25 deposited in it, (f10 more than was originally advertised). As a bonus she also received a Radio 1 Radio. Nineyearold Nicola fromSidney Close, Grange Park is a pupil at Westlea Midland Bank manager Elaine Swindon's Holy RoodJuniorSchool. Wright presents Nicola with her prize

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Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel:(0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793

Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting by Keystrokes Electronic Design Printed by Western Webb, Bristol Published monthly.

Copy date for the March edition: 16th of February. The March edition will be published on 1 March

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It Is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising." Contents 4 Toothill 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 Westlea Shaw 9 10 At Your Library 11 Arts Scene 13 Local Lives 14 Recreation 16 Green Tendencies 17 Education Matters 18-21 News and Views 22 Letters & Small Ads.

The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Dad's only group A new group met for the first time in January, the first of its kind in Swindon, and more members are needed. The group is being organised to allow fathers to get together to talk about and learn how to be better dad's. It is meeting twice a month with a creche to look after children. One of the organisers James Crozier, from Tattershall, Toothill, said that the group will concentrate on issues that affect fathers. 'We want to meet fathers who have older children as well as new dads. We will be organising speakers, videos and discussions on bringing up babies and child development, parental leave from the workplace and stereotyping in the media. 'We're also going to take a trip into town to look at shopping from a father's point of view." He said that mothers and fathers in many households both worked and shared childcare, often in a shift

5e Coa, Personal Introductions in the Swindon area for single, separated, divorced or widowed people who want to make a new start

ÂŠ Swindon Floors are for crawling on. James Crozier, with his son James, wants more fathers to see the world from a different point of view

arrangement with one parent workingdays and theotherin theevening. However, whereas mothers aroused to talking about their children, there are few opportunities for men to express the views and to learn from others. "Men have feelings also, but of ten they cover them up because it might

Good contacts from questionnaire A questionnaire distributed in the November edition of the Link by introduction agency The Company Company brought forward a tremendous response says one of the organisers. There were more than 150 enquiries with over sixty people becoming members. 'We were very pleased by the number of forms returned as a resultof thepublicity," said Patricia Jordan of The Company Company. 'What was impressive was the quality of people who contacted us; many are successful in their own fields." TheCompany Company recently opened new offices in Cirencester which also hasa large function room. This will allow them to organise a range of social activities for mem-

bers. A Western Night, a Medieval banquet, a French theme evening and monthly quiz nights are all in the programme. The Company Company has over 1,200 members on their books. The organisers Diane Willows and Patricia Jordan put a lot of emphasis on personal contact. By meeting every individual who applies to join, they are able to suggest introductions which will be successful. Diane and Patricia are concerned to alleviate theuncertainty involved with meeting new people, shortening the time it takes to build a new relationship and create good opportun ities for people to meeteach other. They can be contacted on Swindon 487761 or Cirencester 0285 641058

reveal their insecurities," he said. "Our aim is to break those barriers and to share experiences of bringing up children. Fathers for the first time can learn a lot from those who have older children, those with one child will learn from those with more. "It's important for fathers to look at themselves and ask whether they could be better at the job." The Dad's group will be meeting from 7.30p.m. to 9p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month in the Community Suite at theLinkCentre. To find out more telephone James Crozier on 480939 or Tony Hillier at the Link Centre on 871212.

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Link Centre Community Suite Saturday 9 February, 1000a.m. - 400p.m. Phone 527105 for further information or offers of help Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road, Freshbrook on Saturday 9 February, 2.30p.m. Organised by 2nd Toothill Brownies meeting in Freshbrook Church

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New meeting place ready for use A new meeting hall will soon be available for use by community groups. The RoughmoorSocialHall, is to be found onSwinlcy Drive, Roughmoor, north of Nine Elms. Built by the local congregation of the Jehovah's Witnesses as part of their Kingdom Hall development, the hail has been handed over to Thamesdown Council's Community Development Division who will manage it. The hail has a capacity of about fifty people and is suitable for a playgroup. It will be ready for hire from mid-February. Enquiries should be made with Community Centres Officer Denis Onley on 526161.

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TOOTHILL Help for working parents as After School Club future is guaranteed Eighteen months after a loud campaign which included a banner wavingprotest on theThamesdown Council civic office steps, the future of Toothill's After School Care scheme is assured. Now the scheme wants to expand its activities by taking on the lease of its own building. The Allied Dunbar Charitable Trust financed the project for two years and Thamesdown Council's Community Development Committee have now agreed to grant

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7,000 to the voluntary group that runs the scheme after April. Last September the three session a week after school club started to open every weekday afternoon so that working parents could be guaranteed care for their children. Diane Stuckey, chair of the parent's management committee, said she was delighted by the cash. "We went to five afternoons a week not knowing if we would have the money to carry on after April 1991. We're very glad that Thamesdown has secured our future." The Toothill project is the first after school care scheme in the Borough. A further 24 projects are being planned over the next five years. The project employs three people who care for children between 3.15p.m. and 6.15p.m. at Toothill Farm community centre, and recently employed a Development Worker who is looking at how the scheme can respond to needs. Before school, weekend and holiday care are all being considered. The parent's management committee is negotiating with Thamesdown to take on the lease of the Toothill Youth Club building to

will run it as an activity centre for youngsters aged five through to twenty. Vacancies

The Toothill After School Scheme has places available for children who need care every afternoon or those who just want to come on certain days. Children aged five to 11 who attend Toothill and Oliver Tomkins Primary Schools are eligible to attend the scheme. They are collected when school finishes and take part ma variety of activities includingart and craft work, games, projects and quiet activities. The emphasis is on giving children the freedom to relax and choose which activities they want try. Telephone Diane Stuckey on 529463 or drop in to talk to the staff at Toothill Farm any afternoon. • The After School scheme is desperate for the use of a mini-bus for half an hour each afternoon to collect children from school. • The scheme would like to receive donations of old games and clothing for the dressing up box. Call Diane Stuckey with offers of help.

Some of the youngsters at the After School Club with new staff, carer Immelda Byrne, left, and Development Worker Karen Drake, from left, Kerry Powell, Kerry Munn, Nicholas Dodds, Kerry Jennings, Nicola Holt, Simon Jennings, Richard Dodds, Cheryl Guildford and Julie-Anne Rathbone.

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Karen Ryman writes: Do you fancy an evening away from the television, children or even husband? If so, then come along and meet some new friends at Tootlea Brook W.I. We meet once a month at Toothill School. We have some very interesting and varied talks and demonstrations and discuss issues that affect us all. Recently we have held a fashion show, barn dance, cake stall and had fun and games at our Christmas party. Our next two meetings will be held on Wednesday 20 February, and Wednesday 20 March, at 7.30p.m. If you feel that you am too shy to come along on yourown, please contact me and I will take you along. For further details telephone Karen Ryman on 695499.

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Thamesdown Borough Council is planning a number of meetings around the Borough to hear people's views on services provided. West Swindon has been chosen for the first one. The results of a survey conducted by The Link magazine in conjunction with the Borough Council concluded that in general residents like living in West Swindon as it has a lot to offer them. The meeting on 7th February is an opportunity to make your views known to senior councillors of the Borough Council.

BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWNI Local councillors • Elections • Central government support • Women's Issues • Economic development S Expansion & Growth

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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Help wanted with school's 10th Parents school birthday celebrations choice Parents in Freshbrook and Grange Park are going to have a choice of three primary schools for their children according to local county councillor Simon Cordon. "Wiltshire County Council schools sub-committee received a report on catchment areas for the primary schools south of Shaw Ridge," said Coun. Cordon. "The committee decided that Toothifi, OliverTomkins and Westlea should have defined catchment areas, but rejected catchments for the three schools in Freshbrook - Freshbrook Primary, Windmill and the new Grange Park school to open this September. Parents will therefore be able to choose which school they want their children to go to." The Grange Park primary school will open in September just off Hay Lane.

FACES return on Saturday 9 February 10a.m. - 12noon Freshbrook Community Centre

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Those around atthe time Freshbrook School started will remember that the first classes met at Oliver Tomldns School because the first buildings were not ready in time. Now it has over 600 children on site. History coordinator Rosemary Ashley is putting together an exhibition with children who are researching the history of the school

as part of their studies. She would like to hear from anybody who might have photographs of Freshbrook in its early developing days. The pupils would also like to interview some of the original residents to gather information for their workork If you can help, contact Rosemary at Freshbrook School on 872800.

Dog fouling encouragement An experiment to persuade dog owners to allow their dogs to foul in certain areas and to avoid play parks has had an encouraging start, according to a local councillor. Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton, who also chairs Thamesdown's EnvironmentalFomm, managed to get the Council to put up signs before Christmas in a part of Grange Park asking dog owners to supervise where dogs were permitted to foul, and keep them away fromchildrens play equipment. Commenting on the aims of the scheme, he said, "when some of the householders close-by and myself had a close look in December, we found that there were no dog droppings in the bark surface under the play equipment, some on the surrounding grass areas, but most on grass areas next to the Hay Lane footpath -which is where we wanted them to go. "There's a view that owners allow their dogs to foul anywhere but it was encouraging that many were using areas away from the play park I think the incidence of fouling the ground around the play area has reduced since the signs were put up, but we will be carrying out a full

Listening to both sides of the problem, dog owner Coun. Bob Pixton and Freshbrook councillor Sue Bates (holding out a bag for collecting dog droppings), with one of the Grange Park signs asking for dog owner cooperation

survey in April to assess the effect of the experiment" He added that it was important to find common understanding with dog owners to keep the cost of fencing off areas and enforcing bye laws down.

Appeal to fouling dog owners The volunteers and staff involved in the Oliver Tomkins Playgroup are making an appeal to dog owners not to allow their dogs to foul close to and around the playgroup building at Kiln Park, on the edge of Freshbrook Toothill and Grange Park The playgroup building, opposite the depot off Beaurmaris Road, is being surrounded bydogdroppings -on the road and footpath leading to it, on the grass in front of the building and even in their enclosed back garden.

Playgroup chairperson Liz Mann said that the organisation is run by volunteers and does not receive subsidy from anybody. "The children are constantly bringing dog muck on their shoes into the playgroup room. There is so much of it about; its very difficult for parents to keep their children from walking in it. "1 would appeal to dog owners to ensure their dogs foul in the areas of longer grass in Kiln Park. It won't take much to offer this supervision for the sake of the children."

as new chlldrens and adu js - & household Item rook School 'aye 3pm to

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WESTLEA

Pupils look back in time

Big money for Westlea

Thirty youngsters at Westlea School have spent several months studyWestlea is being given a cash injec- ing avillage close to West Swindon. tion to stimulate community life. The fourth years have been learnIn March a large temporary ing all about Hook Street and have building will arrive to provide a been so inspired with the project much needed extension to the exist- that the original time given to it was ing community room next to Westlea extended by three months until School. The building is being paid Easter this year. for by a £30,000 contribution to Teacher Tom Harman said that community facilities by McLean the in-depth history study had exhomes, which has built houses on idilU 1LAL LU LIL L.JeILd Ieitiii %...eILLIe.

Thamesdown Council has metthe difference required to provide the building. In another development, the Westlea Community Action Group has been promised £10,000 by National Power to set upan after-school club. The group has applied to Thamesdown Council's Community Development Committee for another £5,000 so that the club can run on three afternoons a week. Fewer sessions may not make the club viable to operate.

Charity Market & Car Boot Sale Local community groups are invited to raise money at the Westlea School charity market Saturday 9 March, 10am - 12 noon

Car Boot Sale open to all Stalls: £2. Boots £4/,5 To book, ring Westlea School on 870469

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Injanuary six students attended a tended the pupils into written work, discussions, poetry, art and craft. reunion of students who attended Below, he describes how the class Hook School which closed in 1965. has narrowed their research to find- The reunion was held in The School ing out all about one resident of House restaurant which now occupies the building. Hook village.

The search for John Thomas Titcombe. Do you know this man? On the war memorial in Hook Vill- -age and delivered the letters by age, we saw the name of John hand. We had some replies but no Thomas Titcombe. He died in 1917 one could tell us about the family. in the First World War. We found We rang up the archives office in that out by writing to the War Office Trowbridge and they sent us inforwhich sent us back the information. mation about the school records. So John Thomas Titcombe was born we found out that John Thomas in Hook Street on 25 March 1892. He Titcombe went to school in Hook. had a sister named Louisa and a The family moved away and then brother named William. He also moved back again. This was shown had another sister who died when in the admissions register. she was a baby. Her name was We also found out that the family Rosie. We found out that informa- lived in HookFa rm from the records tion from the church records. His of voters in the parish. father was John who was born on 6 We still wanted to find out November 1859 and he married whether we could find anyone in Emma Wheatly on 7 April 1888. the family so we wrote to everyone We thought all this was very in- called Titcombe in and outside teresting and we wanted to find any Swindon who were in the telephone relatives or friends of the family. So directory. we wrote to everyone in Hook villWe are still waiting to hear. Pictured in Victorian costume at the Hook School reunion. Tonny Ramselaar, owner of the Schoolhouse restaurant, rear left, and from left, WestleapupilJcnnifer Bush, Claire Duke, James Douglas, Emma Garrett, Anish Harrison, Adam Ellis Hook resident and ex-school pupil Mrs Teresa Collis and Karen Ramselaar

SHAW Matthew makes his first year

With the birthday cake which he could not touch, Matthew Stone with his mum Carolyn, dad Philip and sister Natalie-Jane.

Image makers The top juniors at Shaw Ridge Primary School have been studying everything to do with Images recently. They have been looking at how newspapers convey information, whether photographs tell lies and how news is distorted and used for different ends.

They made a trip to the Fox Talbot museum of photography and made their own pin hole cameras. Using the school computers they also wrote and produced their own newspaper. Their studies included science work on lens', a visit from members of Swindon's West Indian lunch club and a talk about how The Link magazine is put together.

Holding upa copy ofmeLinkmagazine in its unfinished stateare from left, Danial Fylan-Smith, Dave Mayhew, Jenny Peregrine, Barry Cain, Lianne Cross, LesleyAnne Brown, Paul Morton. In front, Kelly Williams and Waheedah Khan

Relatives and friends of the Stone family from Shaw gathered injanuaxy to celebrate a birthday they hardly thought would take place. One year old Matthew Stone's survival has astonished medical experts because he suffers fromsuch a rare condition. He was diagnosed as having citrullinaemia shortly after being born. It means all the protein he eats turns to ammonia which poisons his system. He will be on a special diet for the rest of his life and presently has to take 16 doses of medicine daily to keep his condition stable. His mum Carolyn said that the family never thought they would be celebrating Matthew's firstbirthday. "We still live day to day but he has been getting stronger all the time. We're hoping he will walk into the consulting room when we visit the specialist in February." Matthew's dad, painter and decorator Philip Stone is donating £5 from every job to metabolic research.

Residents' meetings Shaw Residents Association next meets on Monday 4 February, 7.45p.m. in Shaw Community Centre (nexttothe doctor's surgery). Residents who would like a general community problem discussed are invited to attend the meetings.

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GGLEBOX Specialists in video & TV repairs Free home estimates All work guaranteed Service from 8am - 9pm NO CALL OUT CHARGE

TEL: SWINDON 813485

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

u need nel ce on what trainin! ance worker trom ailabie evE bótweén 1 C in the Mall at ti to chat to peoj nformatlon and advice their next steps could bE.

Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am- 1 lam

Old Town. Tel: 542300 1 Ashford Road (see map) Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Fri. 2pm-3pm Saturday 5.30pm-6.30pm

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24 Hour Emergency & Advice Service

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Facts at Your Fingertips What can you find in a public library? How many of you are thinking books, books and even more books? The library is also a place of information and we can answer questions from 'Who is the local M.P.?' to providing lists of local leisure and sports clubs. It may surprise you to see the range of information we have - and it's there for you to discover. If you have any particular queries, or just don't know where to start in finding answers or solutions to something, 'phone us or pop in for a visit. We'll either find the information directly or provide you with details of people who can help you. The enquiry desk is the main port of call with staff trained in dealing with a whole range of enquiries. We have an array of sources at hard, with a computer database of clubs and groups, a whole host of reference material and contacts with people who know what we don't. There are any number of useful facts you can discover for yourself in the information and reference area. Consult our new local information point for facts and information about the local area. Topics are covered under the following headings: education, health points, local

churches, leisure pursuits, vital contacts, help and advice, and local events. The library also has a number of leaflets you may find of use or interest. They can sometimes supplement the books you borrow on a subject or even be an alternative and you don't have to return the leaflets; they're yours for free. The leaflets we hold cover the following subjects, pregnancy and childbirth, family planning, fitness and health, additives and nutrition, home security and maintenance, legal and consumer information, plus many many more. Please ask at the enquiry desk for the range of leaflets we have in stock. For people who want more dee tailed information for personal reasons or for research, we have produced information guides on pregnancy and childbirth, energy in the home and environmental issues. The guides highlight the range of information on the subject including lists of books, leaflets, local/national groups and contacts plus statutory services and benefits. Further guides will be produced to cover other subjects. If you have any ideas or suggestions please come and tell us Next time you visit the library, go to the information section and

SUMMER 1991

browse. You may even find answers to questions you never knew you had!

All Change The early part of the year will see a number ofnwfacesat the library, writes Carolyn Kennedy. Alison Spencer will be joining us at the beginning of February as a new part-time assistant replacing Linda Macleod who was with us for 18 months. Sadly we shall also be losing Lindsey Somerfield, another part-timer, at the end of February. At the same time I shall be putting my feet up to await the arrival of my baby in April. During my absence my post shall be covered by a temporary librarian, but you can still expect to see the familiar faces of Jacquelyn and Isobel behind the enquiry desk.

Photocopying Service The library now has a brand new photocopier that can produce excellent quality black and white A4 copies. The service is available to all members of the public at the rate of 8 pence per copy with reduced rates for multiple copies over 50. The machine is located in the reference area of the library; it is self-service with easy to follow instruction provided.

Songs from the Shows In aid of the Prospect Foundation A concert by The Croft Players at the Link Centre Organised by the Link 45+ Club Saturday 16 February 2pm - 4.30pm Link Arts Studio Tickets ÂŁ1 or 50p concessions from Link Centre Reception

BOOK YOUR BRITISH HOLIDAY TODAY Choose from Self Catering, Country Cottages, Chalets, Caravans, etc. Hotels - short breaks and longer, plus airport stopovers Coach Tours, Boating, Holiday Camps - Butlins & Pontins, etc. Flydrive & much, much more available

..:

Offer subject to certain conditions

lABIA 10110

This month Jacquelyn Else, pictured below, tells you about the abundance of information sources available at the library

For further information contact A.T. MAYS, WEST SWINDON CENTRE Tel: 873222 Also at 44 The Arcade Swindon 7pm on Thursday and Friday Tel: 520019

4i&YSThe Travel Agents Remember, we are open until

ARTS SCENE

China in your hands at Link Arts in February Recreation Trainee Stephanie Simpson, invites you to a sense of China at Link Arts this month. Other attractions include poet/comic John Hegley and indie band The Darkside.

Chinese Culture Friday 8 February - Guo Yue and friends. Chinese flautist Guo Ye has combined his talents with a keyboard player and percussionists to produce a true "world" sound. Do not miss this excellent WOMAD band. Doors open 8p.m. Price £4, concs. £3. Saturday 16- China Dar. A sense of China." Come along and travel through China in the company of prawn crackers, kites, dragons and San Yen the magician. For anyone over five. Doors open 1030a.m. or 3p.m. Price £3. Plus - don't miss the Chinese exhibitions!

Film Thursday 19 New Comedy from another talented Thursday 14 February team of titillating titter-makers! Music Box (15). Jessica Lange porDoors open 8p.m. Price £4; concs. trays a Chicago attorney whose legalskills and personal strengths are £3. tested when she defends her father against charges of war crimes. Drama Tuesday 5 February- Themes from Thursday 28 February Internal Affairs (18). Starring the War of the Roses Presented by The English Shakes- Richard Gere as a LA cop suspected of criminal activities in this tough Pere Company. Doors open 7.30p.ni. thriller. Films start 7.45p.m. Price: £2; concs £1.50. Plus £1 membership. Music Friday 15 February R 'n B from Roadhogs and Alibi, presented by Swindon Rock Front. Saturday 16 February Rugby's finist band The Darkside play live at Link Arts. Price: £4; concs. £3. Doors open at 8p.m. both days

Children Saturday 2 February- Kids'Kabaret presented by Groundwell Arts. Games, entertainment, jokes, juggling and comedy. If you're over five, why not join in? There's a week of theatre to wet the Doors open 2.30p.m. Price: £2.25 appetite at the Wyvern in February. On Monday 11, Ex Animus, Britain's first environmental theatre Comedy company presents their prize winThursday 7 February Fancy a real belly-laugh? Then join ning production Ecocide, which is John Hegley, a very funny comic, described as a passionate plea on poet, musician and Guardian con- behalf of the planet. On 12 and 13 February, there's an tributor appearing here with Nigel the guitarist. evening of music and drama celStarts 8.30p.m. Price £4; concs. £3. ebrating the 200th anniversary of Mozart's death, featuring The Maggini Quartet following the AcCommissioned tors Touring Company's presentaFine art graduate MarkTurner from tion of Pushkin's powerful tragedy Upper Stratton held an exhibition of Mozart and Salieri, the play which his work at the Link Centre during was the source of the stage and film January and worked on a commis- production Amadeus. sion for three days in the centre. Set in the late eighteenth century, The painting is a vivid and col- the play is based on the deathbed ourful abstract work showing the confession of Court Composer building and some of the many dif- Salieri in which he claimed to have ferent activities which take place in murdered his colleague and rival, the genius Mozart. The production the centre. Community Arts officer Mel Jones ad- feature's some of Mozart's most mires progress on the painting with well-known music and is a study of why Salieri was driven to murder a Mark Turner, right. musicalgeniuswhomhewas known to have admired. As well as normally priced tickets, the Wyvern are offering a top price theatre ticket and a superb three course meal in the new Harlequin restaurant for £15. Finally, on 15 and 16 February, Yugoslavian Theatre Director Mladen Matericdirects The Closing Number,a play with a knife thrower, his wife and the arrival on the scene of a pyrotechnically-prone young woman. A must forthose who want excitement and innovation. The Wyvern Box Office numberis 524481,Cmd it Cards calls on 694055. Book now.

Staged live at the Wyvern

Is IRONING A CHORE? Why not ring Carol's Ironing Service on 770925 Charges: £3 per hour

Stage Corner & Fancy Dress Corner

SALE CONTINUES TO MID-FEBRUARY Ballet, Tap & National Shoes, Leotards, Tights, Fishnet Tights, Legwarn,ers, Crossovers and many other Dancewear accessories. Theatrical make-up. Wigs, Beards, Moustaches, Crepe Hair, Hats & Masks. Large Selection of Jokes, Adults & Child rens Fancy Dress Costumes

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PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar. Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged Contact

BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24 hrs)

WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON Tuesday 19th to Saturday 23rd February

Tuesday 2pm & 5pm Wed - Fri 1030am & 2pm Saturday 1030am, 2pm & 5pm From the Producers of "Postman Pat" comes a new lavish show for children.

EEM AN S SA M FIREMAN SAM, the hero from the popular 1V series,

will be on stage with his friends Elvis and Trevor Evans. Station Officer Steele is in command but as he's a bit of a bumbler, Sam takes charge. Ideal of children from 2 to 8 years old.

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Adults £5.50. Children £4.50

BOX OFFICE I(I) II\I.

(0793) 694055

(0793)524481

p(.,.)tp by BOROUGH OF THAMESOOWN

LOCAL LIVES A life full of experiences

At nearly 93 years of age Bert Lancaster from Toothill must West Swindon's oldest resident We went to talk to him about some of the fascinating events in his life, including his experiences in the First World War Bert was born in 1898 in Brightlingsea, Essex where his father worked as head gardener at Brightlinsea Hall. One of Bert's earliest memories was one of the several frightening experiences he had before he turned twenty. "Me and five others were on our way to school about one and a half miles away and we thought we could hitch a rideona wagon full of wicker furniture. It was covered by this tarpaulin which was flapping in the wind. All of sudden the wind pick-ed up and the noise of the flapping frightened the horses which bolted. The driver was thrown off and there was us hanging on in the back. We could see the school coming up and jumped off. We took a few scrapes and bumps, and the bolting horse was stopped up the road by another driver who turned his horse and cart across the road. "Another thing I remember was Halley's Comet passing in 1906. It was ever so bright in the sky. My younger sister thought the world was coming to an end." Justbefore his thirteenth birthday Bert's father took up the position of head gardener at the Stratton Estate and the family moved to Swindon.

"I attended Lower Stratton Mixed School for a few months and left at thirteen and a half. As my father worked on the estate, I was taken in as a houseboy at Stratton House, doing odd jobs for the butler. There was a lot of boot polishing, and also cleaning the silver because the parlour maids didn't do it very well." After three years of domestic service Bert joined the Great WesternRailway to work in the stamping shop where a thousand and one different items were pressed out on the drop hammers. In October 1916, he was ordered to report to the Swindon recruitment office. Bert says that the re-

cruiting sergeant mentioned that the pay in the navy was abithigher than in the Army soheapplied to join. He was given the traditional shilling for joining His Majesty's forces and returned home to await call up. (Bert is pictured on the left with a friend at Blandford Training Camp in 1916).

He joined the Hawk Battalion of the Royal Naval Division which was lent to the Army and at 18 years old, he found himself in France preparing to go into the trenches. "On my first night at the front line, my platoon was digging the trench, to extend it into 'no man's land.' We were near Arras and we were being shelled. All of a sudden one came over and exploded right next to us. The whole trench caved in burying me in it. I was lucky I suppose, because I was able to work myself loose and was able to dig myself out.

"The following year (1917) we were at Cambrai, and the winter was terrible. Everything froze solid and the snow was very deep. When the thaw started, conditions were very bad. All the trenches caved in, it was like a bog. On both sides, British and German soldiers had to walkout in the open to get out of the mud. We didn't shoot at each other whilst we set about digging more trenches to get into. "1 suffered a bit of frostbite which was the only injury I had throughout the war. When you were going forward in a battle blokes were being hit around you and you could feel the bullets going by. We lost a lot of men in the 1917 advance around Cambrai, the one which finally finished the war. Our orders were to attack the second line of trenches behind the front line. When we got there, the German soldiers were so closely packed in that they couldn't use their weapons for lack of morn. "During that first night I found that a bullet had passed through my gas mask and had been stopped half way through the pocket testament I Remove the centre page map. Bert's story continues opposite

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

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W.stl.a

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M.A.A.

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YOUASKED FOR IT.

Now, you've got it. The Midland Bank has opened a branch in Westlea serving personal and business customers in West Swindon. This branch owes more to you than it does to us. You wanted longer opening hours. We're open 9.30a.m. to 5.00p.m. for personal service and there's an automated lobby service 24 hours a day seven days a week. There's more room to move around in, an obvious improvement. We have machines to help with simple transactions and staff to handle complex ones, together with a reception desk for enquiries and a private interview area should you want a quiet word. So if you would like some help with banking, investments, travel arrangements or have a business idea, here's a bank that would like to hear from you.

MIDLAND The Listening Bank

Midland Bank plc, Delta 1402, Welton Road, Delta Business Park, Swindon SN5 7XN. Opening hours 930a.m. to 5p.m. Monday to Friday. Automated Lobby Service for personal customers, 24 hours a day seven days a week.

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The Link Magazine Street Index Guide to West Swindon A Adwalton Close Affleck Close Alba Close Aldborough Close Alnwick Alpine Close Alveston Close Ancona Close Angler Road Anglesey Close Angus Road Applewood Road Ascham Road Asburnham Close Ashie Close Ashington Way Ashworth Way Askerton Close Askew Close Audley Close Ayshire Close

F3 H5 B10 G8 G3 El0 17 ElO E9 G7 E10 16 E6 D3 F15 G6 K7 Cli B5 64 E9

B Babington Park Bainbridge Close Baird Close Bale Close Bancroft Close Bankfoot Close Barkstead Close Basingstoke Close Beaulieu Close Beaumaris Road Beehive Close Belver Belsay Benwell Close Berkshire Drive Berry Copse Bess Road Beverley Bevil Bindon Close Birdcombe Road Bishopsdale Close Bloomsbury Close Bedlam Drive Bonner Close Boleyn Close Bosham Close Bosworth Road Boydell Close Bradenham Road Braybrooke Close Brandon Close Bridgemead Close Byrd Close Buie Close

C6 D5 Eli B5 66 Gb F4 D4 14 FS-6 Cl2 G5 G4 H7 ElO C13 C3-4 H3 D2 C5 H7 012 E4 13-5 C6 D7 F4 06 Fbi D4 C12 06 18 CS F1S

C Cabot Drive Camden Close Campion Gate Cam ton Road Caprice Close Carey Close Carronbridge Road Cartwright Drive Castilian Mews Castle Dore Castleton Road Castleuield Close Cavie Close Chalgrove Field Chancellor Close Chandos Close Charolais Drive Chartley Green Chelmsford Road Chepstow Close Chesterfield Close Chevalier Close Cheviot Close

C7 DS C6 ClO C9 E6 F7-8 El 1-Fl 1 010 E5 ClO G8 Cli E3 C7 07 E9 06 G9 H3 GB BlO E8

Chudleigh Clare Walk Clarke Drive Cleasby Close Cleves Close Clinton Close Clydesdale Close Colchester Close Conisborough Conyers Close Corfe Road Corral Close Corton Crescent Cottington Close Cowdrey Close Crawford Close Cromwell

F3 C4 Ell 17 D7 B4 09 14 HS C4 F4 012 G7 E3 F4 E3 F2

D Dalefoot Close Danestone Close Darcy Close Deerhurst Way Denbeck Wood Desborough Devereux Close Dexter Close Dunwich Drive

C12 B10 B7 14 G8 D2 C6 E9 14

E Earl Close Easdeaze Road Edgehill Edgeworth Close Eding ton Close Elsie Hazell Court Elms Grove Ely Close Eworth Close

G9 G8 F3 Gb PS D3 Cli 5 CS

F Featherwood Fenland Close Ferrers Drive Fleetwood Court Flint Hill Fowey Foxwood Frampton Close Frankland Road Freshbrook Way Fresian Close Friesland Close Fyne Close

16 Cl 0 04 E2 H3-4 E2 16 F8 DI-El F4-04 09 09 F14

G Gainsborough Court 05-ES Gainsborough Way E3-E4 Galrlock Close F1S Galloway Close E9 Gartons Close BbO George Tweed Gdens 010 Gerard Walk E7 Godolphin Close 02 Goldsborough Close F7 Goodrich Court H4-14 Gower Court BS Granary Close CII Grange Park Way C6-D6 Grantham Close F2 Great Western Way Cl-K9 Gnndal Drive CS Grosmont Drive FS-6 H Haddon Close Hadleigh Close Hampshire Close Hampton Drive Hanson Close Harlech Close Harvester Close HeathcoteClose Heronbridge Close

CS 18 E10 66 FlO G3 ClO Fib H6

Street Index West Swindon Publications 1991

Harptree Close Hexham Close Heytsbury Gardens Highland Close Hilimead Drive Highmoor Copse Hillyard Close Holbeins (The) Holinshead Place Hook Street

C12 F6 C4 E10 F12 C13 C4 05 05 64

Icomb Close Idovers Close Irston Way Ixworth Close

G3 H4 F4 09

J Jersey Close Jewel Close Juliana Close

Fll AS-BS C9

K Kendal Kerry Close Keycroft Copse Kingscote Close Kilben Close Kilsythe Close Kimbolton Close King Charles Road King Henry Drive Kirkstall Close Kirktonhill Road Kishorn Close

G3 09 C13 C12 Cl 0 ES 03 F3-4 B4-C4 H4 17 Gl5

L Lambert Close Lamora Close Langdale Drive Langport Close Langstone Way Lanhydrock Close Leslie Close Leven Close Lineacre Close Liskeard Way Lisle Close Littlecote Close Lombard Court Lomond Close Longstock Court Longthorpe Close Lowes Close Longborough Close Lucerne Close Luddesdown Road Lumley Close Lydford Close

F2 B10 F2 E4 G8-H7 E4 D4 E2 C3 F3 05 16 G4 F14 F8 14-5 F15 64 610 G4 C14 011

M Majestic Close Maldwyn Close Mannington Lane Mardale Close Markenfleld Mamey Road Marshall Road Maxey Close Mead Way Mears Drive Melfort Close Melrose Close Middleleaze Drive Mildmay Close Miller Close Monteagle Close Moresby Close Mane Close Mortimer Close Mulcaster Close

C9 Cl 0 15-6 C12 J4-S E6 F12 Eli J8-FlS Eli FIS G8 B10-C10 C5-6 B10 C4 H7 F14 F10 BS

N Nantwich Ness Close Nevis Close Newark Close Newbury Road Newmeadow Copse

E2 F15 FlS F2 F2 013

0 Oakham Close Oakham Close Oasthouse Close Old Shaw Lane Orkney Close Orlando Close Orrin Close

H4-5 G9 Cii C11-F10 E9 BS F14

P Parham Walk Park Springs Parr Close Paulet Close Pearl Road Peatmoor Way Pendennis Road Percheron Close Pevensey Way Picton Road Pilgrim Close Pilton Close Pioneer Close Planes Close Portmore Close Poynings Way Prince Rupert Court Purton Road

65 HS 07 04 C9 C12-F13 E2 D9 GS C9 010 Cl 1 C9 Fit G14 65 E4 014

0 Oueenborough

R Radcot Close Ramleaze Drive Ramsden Road Randall Crescent Ranoch Close Ransome Close Raveng lass Road Redcap Gardens Rhuddlan Ridge Green Rinsdale Close Ripple Field Risingham Mead Rivenhall Road Rivermead Drive Rochester Close Rochford Close Romney Way Roughmoor Way Roundway Down Rowton Heath Way Russley Close Ryan Close Rycote Close Rye Close

012 E9-1 0 Cl Dil F14 Ell G7-H7 E9 G3 G9 F14 F3 HS G6-H6 H9 F4 06 E8 010 F2 03-E5 C13 G15 E7 010

S Saddleback Road Salzgitter Court Sandacre Road Sandwood Close Saxton Walk Selby Crescent Sharp Close Sheen Close Shelf inch Shetland Close Shire Close Shropshire Close Sidney Close Silchester Way Simnel Close Sleaford Close

09 HS C12 G14 Fit E4 G10 C3 J4 E9 09 E9 84 G7 CS 07

Somerdale Close Sparcells Drive Speresholt Springhill Close Stamford Close Stanbridge Park Stancombe Standings Close Stansfield Close Staring Close Stenness Close Stokesay Drive Stonefield Close Stonehill Green Stoneybeck Road Stone Lane Stratford Close Sudeley Way Swinley Drive Symonds

G7 F14-15 14 H6 GS E9 16 Dli 13 610 GS H4-5 G9 18 17 B14 IS C5-E6 C13 E9

T Tailis Walk Tamworth Drive Tattershall Teeswater Close Telford Way Tewkesbury Way The Bramptons The Chesters The Elms The Forum The Holbeins The Street Thornford Drive Thurney Drive Tintagel Close Titchfield Close Truro Path Turnham Green Tyburn Close Tye Gardens Tyndale Path

E6 E8-9 H2 E8 K4-5 A10-J5 F9 H8 Cii G6 OS AlO H7 CS G4 B5 C4 E3 E6 CS 06

U Uxbridge Road

V Victoria Court Volpe Close

G4 84

W Wakefield Close E4 Warbeck Gate C6 Wareham Close E6 Wameford Close 13 Watercrook Mews 16 Watery Lane 68 Welton Road J7 Wenslydale Close E8 Wentworth Park 04 Westlea Drive 6-7 Westmead Drive 19-J9 Westminster Road G4 Whitbred Close E9 White Castle H3 Whitefield Crescent C13 Whitehill Way Cl-H9 Whitgift Close C7 Whittington Road H8 Winlaw Close GlO Winstanley Close 03 Winwick Road F3 Woodbury Close C12 Woodchester H6 Wollaton Close D6-E5 Wootton Bassett Road KS Worlidge Drive FbO Worsley Road D2-F2 V Yarmouth Close Yamton Close Yeoman Close

F4 012 Cl 0

LOCAL LIVES Bert Lancaster's story continued kept in the breast pocket of my blouse. Another piece of luck." Bert says there wasn't anything special about Armistice Day on 11 November 1918. It just meant that he didn't have to go into the line again. He's equally unassuming about receiving the Military Medal. "1 don't know what I got it for. I was just doing what everybody else was doing." He also achieved a marksman qualification. "I never wore the badge though. There was a superstition that Gerry had your number if you displayed it." He finished the warat Douai as an officer's servant and was later demobbed and arrived back in England just before his twenty first birthday. "I arrived back at Old Town station and the first thing my brother said was, 'have you got a fog?' Things were pretty tight at home, but I managed to bring 1,000 back." Bert returned to the GWR works and went into the springshop, where he stayed for the next 45 years and eventually became charge hand. "Until that time springs for the railways were made by being hammered into shape by hand. Soon after I arrived the first spring coiling machine arrived and I was the first person to operate it. That machine was still there when I left the works." Bert retired in 1963 and because he had been too old to join the contributory pension scheme when he returned from the war, he was awarded an ex-gratia pension from British Rail which he still receives. He married in 1922 and moved into one the first houses being built on the Oxford Road between Stratton St Margaret and Swindon new town. He remembers being

We turn from one man's experiences of war over 70 years ago to concern for servicemen and women involved in the Gulf conflict.

The West Swindon Churches are here to help The war in the Gulf brings home to us some harsh facts of life, writes Helen Lawrence. But we don't have to be overwhelmed by fear and anxiety. We can pray and God promises to be near to all who call on him. (Psalm 145:18). If you have friends or relatives in the Gulf and would like someone to pray for them or pray with you, ring the West Swindon Church office on 874221- and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Be ready to give blood Bert holding up the prayer book which stopped a bullet and saved his life over 73years ago

very modern at the time by having a hot water system installed. As a keen footballer, Bert recalls playing in a local cup final at the Swindon Town County Ground for the Stratton Reform F.C. After Bert's wife died in 1980, he travelled out to New Zealand to live with his son and daughter in law. After five years they all moved back to England and have lived in West Swindon since 1988. r Nowadays with failing sight Bert's activities are rather restricted, but he tries to get fresh air everyday. "I try to take a short walk twice a day if can, when the weather is good. I know a few people in the street and we have a bit of chat. I used to be able to get up to the Toothill shops. "Last year one of the girls at JCR made me a lovely cake for my birthday. It was nice of them to think of me." Bert will be 93 next month. We'd like to wish him Many Happy Returns.

Calling Old Soldiers Did you serve in Combined Operations? Gil Davies of Westlea would like to hear from anybody who was part of the organisation. His number is 873687.

CLEANING ENTERPRISES (WROUGHTON)

For professional on-site cleaning of Carpets, Curtains, Upholstery and Vertical Blinds. Specialist, Oriental Rug Cleaning service. Licensed 'Scotchcare' services company.

For enquiries and estimates ring 812575 ÂŁ M.I.MH OF THE

bL:

Established since 1963

The area Blood Transfusion Service are asking readers to respond to invitations to give blood when an appointment card is received. Blood will be needed in months to come and people who are not registered as donors (or who have not given blood for some time) are asked to do so as soon as possible. To register telephone Freephone 0800 - 300333 or Oxford (0865) 741188. You will then be called to attend one of the blood donor sessions held regularly in West Swindon. If you are not registered please do not attend local blood donor sessions. Blood has a short shelf life and the Service cannot cope with an unplanned supply. Please register.

Id : 4 -1 -W 1101 -1 Al k'I'd 4: 4,rA

TAKE-AWAYIli, --110

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RECREATION 14 Steve's looking for all weather users Greendown School's Recreation sporting/ recreational activity are head Steve O'Sullivan wants to hear asked to write to Steve O'Sullivan, from sport teams in West Swindon Director of Recreation, Greendown who may be interested in using the School, Grange Park Way, Swindon new floodlit all-weather surface. or telephone him on 871212. Organisers of existing teams and Right: Wide open all weather space for anybody interested instartinga new use says Steve O'Sullivan

Philip Stone Painter &

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Tel: 870515

Monday fitness A music and movement class of over 45's has just celebrated its second anniversary. Started by Sandra Witcher from StrattonSt Margaret with five members, up to 22 people aged between sixty five and eighty five now attend the Monday midday sessions. The hour long sessions include gentle stretching and exercise, and end with relaxation. "It's good to stretch out," says Sandra. "You've got to keep healthy and to look after your body." To join the friendly group to get yourself fit, contact the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

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Bid for riding centre for disabled A teacher who lives in Westlea is quietly campaigning to set up a riding centre for disabled children and adults in Swindon. Lynda Thompson, who teaches special needs children atFreshbrook School, has been working on her idea fora number of years. In 1988 she worked at a riding stables in the Lake District gaining experience of working with people with disabilities. She returned more convinced that the town needs a centre and has been working with a small committee to gather support for the idea. At present children with disabilities have to attend privately run stables several miles from Swindon which involves a great deal of travelling time. Lynda wants to setup a trust to oversee a riding centre's management and development. But first, she needs to find some land where a large covered riding area can be sited, as well as housing for ponies and equipment. The benefits from riding for people with disabilities are tremendous according to Lynda. "Itcanbepurely physical therapy through stretching, relaxing and cooniinatingmusdes," she said. It can stimulate and help concentration and it builds

Aaron Boot, a pupil at Swindon's Chalet School, is escorted by special needs teacher Maureen Mullane confidence. "Perhaps most significant, riding can ignite a spark in emotionally disturbed children and start them communicating and striving. For everybody, it is a very enjoyable, spirit-lifting experience." Lynda is looking for other people who will work with her to bring the riding centre closer to reality. She can be contacted on 876409.

Keeping weight under control

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When Sheena GorseofMiddleleaze, noticed that her weight was creeping up - and staying up - she joined a Slimming World group. Within four months she had lost two stone and has never looked back. "It was great going to a class and talking to other people - like group therapy," said Sheena. "The diet was easy to follow because it allows you to eat so much that you never feel hungry, and it is easy to fit in with the rest of the family." Now Sheena is a fully-fledged consultant with Slimming World, having passed exams set by the Nutrition Council. Her first class, in Hayden Wick is already going well.

One lady has lost3 stone in 12 weeks, and another member lost two and half stone in 10 weeks. Sheena's West Swindon class started in September. It is held at Holy Trinity Church atShaw Village Centre on Tuesday at 7p.m. For more details, phone Sheena on 874085.

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A tender time for recreation services February 1991 and the next nine months are going to be a tense time for the officers and staff of Thamesdown Council's extensive Recreation Service. Compulsory competitive tendering for managing sports and leisure facilities is being introduced and later in the year they will find out whether their employment with Thamesdown is to continue, or whether they will be looking for a job with another organisation. For the users of Thamesdown's leisure services, which mustbe some of the best in the country, it will be a time when the quality and access to facilities is up for grabs. The Government's policies of trying to ensure that the taxpayer's money is well spent started with the l982 Local Government Act. Atfirst council services like refuse collection and school meals were put out to tender, but leisure services were added in 1987. The management of Thamesdown's leisure facilities will be advertised this month and over the next six months the Council will examine the tenders, interview the organisations submitting the bids and select one or several on the basis of value for money. An announcement is expected in September. Link Centre Co-ordinator John Fisher says that the business of preparingforcompetitive tendering has been longand detailed. "With refuse collection and school catering, it's probably fairly straightforward to stipulate whatis required of a service in a contract. An operator has to empty the bins of a defined number of houses and businesses, or a set number of meals have to be served. "With leisure services, things are less well defined because an operator is dealing with changing demands from the customer and the quality of service that they expect." He added that competitive tendering is not privatisation and the Council is not required to sell off its facilities. Also users should not fear being being locked out, or prices rising steeply. The Council can specify the service it expects and will set the times of opening, the range of activities to be provided and the prices to be charged. Over the last 12 months Council officers have been writing a very detailed set of specifications with which the leisure operator will have to comply. According toJohn Fisher, there have been both benefits and disadvantages to this process. "The Recreation Service has taken a good look at itself and has been working to make itself 'fit and lean to compete.' But it has meant a vastamount of time spent looking at every little bit of detail involved in managing leisure facilities and laying down the required standards of service to the customer.

John Fisher

"A prospective operator will not be required to make the leisure centres pay for themselves. To do so would put prices way out of reach for nearly everybody. In their bids to take on management, the operator will have to take into account all the costs - the staff, heating, lighting, promotion, equipment and so on. Having made allowances for income, they will submit a tender on the basis of receiving the lowest subsidy from the Council." The Recreation Service will be

competing with other contractors to manage all the Council's leisure facilities which involves millions of pounds per year. There are also worries amongst Thamesdown's recreation professionals that if anotheropera tor takes over, motivated by making a profit from the management contract with the Council, there will be a decline in service to the customer. Whilst in the short term an operator will comply with the specifications of the contract, once the present team of managers and staff built up over several years is disbanded, they will try to employ fewer staff with worse conditions of employment and generally cut corners on equipment and running costs. Lower safety and quality of service could well result. However the present management team at Thamesdown is confident that theirbid will be successful, according to John Fisher. "There is a team of talented, committed, loyal and experienced people already in place, about 700 posts in all. The process of examining the way we presently operate recreation in Thamesdown has helped us to manage the service even more efficiently for the future."

From one centre to another Rob Whitehouse was activities manager at the Link Centre for five years. Now he's the Manager of the Oasis Leisure Centre. Here he looks back on his time in West Swindon and forward to his new challenges.

'Rob's moving to the all singing, all dancing Link Centre', the words of my manager in London as I left in 1985, how he underestimated the place. The Spring of 1985 was an exciting time as the newly recruited staff busied themselves in the huge empty shell that was Link, all able to contribute to the opening of a unique complex, all excited to see how well it would be used. The first 18 months saw the Ice Rink's honeymoon period, capacity crowds trying out new facilityand for many a new sport. For me, it meant dealing with more staff and customers in one day than my old centre saw in a week. My learning curve went vertically upwards. 1986 and 1987 saw the other Link facilities develop as the community's demands became obvious. Activities which are now well established were introduced, Lifestyle sessions, mini-gym, daytime fitness, recreational trampolining and badminton, Saturday courses, holiday camps to name but a few. My move in late '86 to the post of Activities Managerensured great involvement in these and many other issues. The last two years at Link have seen expansion with Delta Tennis Centre opening in the Springof 1988, distraction in the form of the Coy-

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Anne Billingham was a recycling coordinator for Swindon Friends of the Earth for 10 years. Now she's recycling officer for Thamesdown Council responsible for promoting recycling initiatives in businesses, schools and community groups, as well as looking at how the council itself can recycle the waste it collects. Thamesdown has accepted the Government's ten year target to recover5O% of recyclable waste found in the domestic refuse bin and Anne is looking at schemes to achieve this. "A 'green bag' scheme will be introduced later this year where householders use a pre-paid bag for the waste that can be recycled and we are considering a municipal compost tip for garden materials. "Many recycling initiatives are linked with Wiltshire County Council proposals as they are the disposal authority. However from April tightercontrols on waste management and privatisation of waste disposal will impose a cost incentive to save space at landfill sites, which of course will eventually be used up." Anne's focus of attention is crossing many boundaries. Apart from providing advice to businesses and trying to set up schemes for the reuse of pallets, paper, cardboard, plastic and tyres, she's trying to link business and community groups. The collapse in the waste paper market has meant that many organisations aredeprived of a source of making money. However there's money to made from aluminium cans and Anne is looking at how

Anne Billngham keeping oneof the local bottle banks in use large plastic barrels used by a major butter importer can be easily turned into mini-can banks for groups. She's also organising a schools can recycling initiative in conjunction with the County Education Department to be launched this month. Locally Windmill Hill, Westlea and Greendown Schools are taking part in a pilot project to collect cans. In return the schools will receive all the money paid for them by the scrap merchant. Anne is looking at how the West Swindon community at large can be more involved in recycling. There are now four bottle banks in the area, but one of these sites could be developed to become paper and textile collection points as well. She's interested in hearing from anybody in West Swindon with an idea fora recycling project. Contact heron 526161.

The next waste paper collection at Freshbrook School takes place from 9a.m. to 4p.m. on Thursdays 7 February, 7 March and 11 April.

Check in with one of the local bottle banks Toothill Village Centre Freshbrook Village Centre West Swindon Centre Sainsbury's Bridgemead

Blooming good show at Shaw Ridge When children atShaw RidgeSchool were asked what they disliked about the school, teachers, school dinners and the national curriculum didn't feature amongst their complaints. Thebarren patch of ground at the school entrance came out top of the list. They said it looked sad and friendly flowers were needed. Friendly mum Julie Mills hit on the idea of a garden sponsored by local businesses and garden centres. The children liked the project and came up with the idea of their 'dream garden,' producing pictures, poems and stories to illustrate their thoughts. Local companies responded with equal enthusiasm by donating an assortment of flowers, trees and shrubs to create an all year round garden said Julie. These werethen planted bythechildren with thehelpof parents. The children at Shaw Ridge School would like to thank Sainsburys Homebase, Stone Lane, Kennedys and Lydiard Garden Centres,Greatfield Nurseries and Texas.

What inspires people to give up well paid jobs, company cars and the perks of the private sector to take a complete change in direction which leads them to become qualified teachers in two years? Four women in Swindon have taken the plunge by signing up on the Government's Articled Teacher training scheme. Two at Shaw's Brookfield School, one at Freshbmok's Windmill Hill School and the fourth at Wroughton Junior School. The scheme to attract mature people from other employment fields by providing 'on the job' training was introduced last year as a response to the shortage of college trained teachers. Both Helen Tyler and Mary Black jumped at the chance to train as teachers when a limited number of places was offered by Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education from last September, even though their salaries would be cut significantly. "1 took a degree in Applied Biology, then travelled in India and was working in sales and advertising," said Helen, who lives in Old Town. "1 also tried to set up my own information technology company but when I saw the articled teacher

EDUCATION MATTERS Classroom learning for teachers

Helen Tyler and Mary Black with the children they teach at Brookfield School course advertised, it was just what I on offer. Articled teachers are placed in wanted. Teaching has always been in the back of my mind, but I didn't schools willing to accept them for a want to go straight into it after col- two year period of training. They spend one day in college and the lege." For Mary Black, who lives in rest of the week in school. Each has Toothill, teaching was something she a 'mentor' teacher who provides wanted to do since she was at col- advice and support, and closely lege, nearly ten years ago. Most supervises their work. In the early recently she was a well paid mar- months they observe other teachers keting executive with a big local at work and help with small groups company, but she decided to grasp of children. As they become more the chance to pursue her original experienced the articled teacher's desire to teach when the course was responsibility increases until they

17 are taking a class for most of the week. Each week they keep a learning log, make a detailed record of teaching plans and carry out weekly tasks and focus studies. They also have to regularly meet their college tutorand mentor in school to review their work "It's quite a load" said Helen, "but worth it. "When I worked for a large company work was all about reaching performance targetsand success was measured by the revenue generated. But seeing children succeed in their school work and learning from it is just amazing. They give you so much pleasure." Mary agrees that the rewards cannotbe measured in money terms. "You're responsible for the children's intellectualdevelopment and their enthusiasm for learning is wonderful. Motivating the under achievers is such a challenge as well." The course provides an ideal balance between theory and practical experience. They both believe that their maturity and experience will result in them becoming good teachers "After my first week I was totally exhausted," said Helen. "Teaching is a complete way of life, requiring 100%. We both love it."

Letter from America - Greetings from Stillwater, Minnesota Ann Fisher and Alice Warne, two teachers from Freshbrook School, are halfway through their exchange teaching year in the U.S.A. They are enjoying themselves greatly, both in their work and in discovering the American way. They have been sending regular communiques to colleagues at Freshbrook School and Ann has sent us these impressions. Time is passing very quickly! Thanksgiving gave both of us an insight into an important aspect of American life. At Christmas, Alice flew from snowy Minneapolis with a temperatureof-l8Ptobe with her family in Florida where it was 83T and rising! I went to Washington D.C. to stay with my cousin, 'old Swindonian' Rosemary Allen, and to visit the sites. President Bush has a really comfortable office with a lovely pale blue, oval carpet. Visits to the Air and Space Museum, the Washington Ballet and the National Art Gallery were also highlights of my week. We are now back at our respective schools almost at the end of our second quarter. We shall be sending out Report cards at the end of January, this is common practice for the schools in District 834. In many respects, schools in the area have much in common, with Stonebridge Elementary the exception. It is proving to be quite a

unique experience for me! The school has a large population of 778 students and 100 staff. It is described as an alternative school and has evolved overthe past twenty years. It is a special place, and has become what it is because many people have dared to be different. It is a place where everyone is involved in an adventure,a search for ways in which children may develop their full potential in the best possible manner. It is a school without walls where children progress from one stage to the next at their own pace. The school is divided into four Colonies, each with its team of teachers and educational assistants. Children follow individualised programmes in order to achieve set goals. They move from one Colony to another as they achieve the goals. I'm part of the Colony Two team. Specialist teachers are in charge of Music and Physical Education. Interest is high. Many children learn to play a musical instrument and eventually become members of the School Band. Physical Education teachers organise and implement regular physical activities on a daily basis. Religious Education is not taught in the State School, the children are withdrawn for tuition at their local Churches at the request of parents. My day starts at 7.15a.m.and pm-

Wrapyed up warm against North American winds. Freshbrook teacher Ann Fisher, centre, with some of Colony Two children at Stonebridge Elementary ceeds as follows. In Colony Two, a supportive role throughout the the children gather formally for Colony and supervise lunchtimes. 'Large Group' at 8.30a.m. and make Singing follows the half hour lunch out their daily plans from a sched- break every day, this allows the E. ule board in front of them. This A.'s to have their lunch. board is prepared in advance by the Parents join with Staff to provide teachers, and consists of nine ac- a wide variety of extra curricular tivities,called choices. Theseinclude activities which range from Educaall core curriculum subjects plus tional Visits, to visiting Artists and supplementary activities. The chil- Authors. dren progress through set proVisitors are made most welcome grammes of learning which are at any time and are always to be monitored in each area by an adult. found in the school somewhere. Each activity lasts twenty minutes. This week, much to everyone's Teachers adopt didactic roles to delight, the baseball diamond has teach the skills required, they also been flooded to produce a skating conference (meet) with individual rink. It is a sight to behold to see all children every seven to ten days. thesechildren skatingas effortlessly Educational Assistants (E.A.$) play as they walk or run.

18 ,''

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

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A new group of parents is planning events which combine fun and environmental study for five to fourteen year olds. Called West Swindon Junior Fools, the group is organising two residential camps at Southleaze Farm in March and a Fools Festival in July. All those involved are very bright. The name is derived from Friends of Lower Shaw Farm, where a first experimental event was held last August. The aim of Junior Fools is to provide play and learning opportuni.:"s whilst putting something into the environment according to Sue Steadman of Godolphin Close, Freshbrook. "At Southleaze Farm the children will have a go at sheep shearing and wool spinning, making video, yoghurt and maps of the farm, and working with animals. There willbe lots of new experiences and we hope that it will develop positive and caring attitudes to other living things, animals and humans." Play development worker Paul Ryan, who is assisting the Junior Fools organisers, said two residential camps would take place during the July Festival involving children from the Toothill after school

scheme, West Swindon Family Project, Wakkies from Westlea and FreshbrookFaces. Two local schools would also be working on environmental projects. He added that there were a limited number of places for children who wanted to attend the Fools events but there is a great need for more adults to become involved. Anybody who likes working with children, can contact Sue Steadman on 881781 or Paul Ryan on 693787 ext 150.

Body repairs

Jumble Sales

Play officer Paul Ryan with Sue Steadman and her children Sarah, Michelle and Jamie

Although Ridgeway West are a Saturday 9 February, 2.00p.m. Freshbrook Community Volvo based company, their body Centre shop in Cheney Manor Industrial Admission lOp Estate has built up a reputation for body and paint work to any vehicle Proceeds to Freshbrook Parent and Toddler Group needing quality repairs. The body shop, managed byTeny Saturday 16 February, 2pm Davies from Toothill, is approved Freshbrook Community by VBRA, the Vehicle Body RepairCentre ersAssociationand is fully equipped Clothes, shoes, raffle, to realign chassis and carry out any refreshments major body work. Paint is mixed on Entrance 1 O site to vehicle manufacturers speciProceeds to Greendown fications using the ICI range. Playgroup For a fiee estimate or insurance quote, call the Ridgeway West body Oliver Tomkins Junior School shop on 491149. An easy job for Terry Davies and his staff

AUCTION

Friday 1 March 6.00p.m. Children Welcome Anyone wishing to donate an item for auction please contact the school. Tel: 872100 The Kentwood Choir presents An Evening of Music & Song in aid of The Alexander Cerebral Palsy Care Fund Sunday 17 March, 7.30pm at the Blunsdon House Hotel Tickets at ÂŁ2.50 available from Bridal Fashions, Morely Street, Swindon (behind Mclroys), tel: 611927.

P izza Hut, Shaw Ridge, Now Delivers 40

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Pizza Hut, Britain's favourite chain of pizza restaurants, now offers a free delivery service from its Shaw Ridge restaurant, from 4 February. With a guaranteed delivery time of3O minutes, or1 off, the delivery service is open to anyone living within a five minute drive time radius, by moped, of the store. A takeaway service and the normal restuarant facility is open to anyone, wherever they live. Pizza Hut, Shaw Ridge will be delivering to Shaw and Sparcells in the north and Freshbrook and Toothill in the south. In the east the delivery service will cover Westlea and Eastleaze, and Grange Park in the west. Simply telephone your order after 5.30pm on Swindon 876212, and your order will be delivered straight to your door. You can try a delicious Speciality Pizza baked with our recommended combination of toppings including Super Supreme, Meat and Cheese Feast or a Spicy Hot One. Alternatively you can create your own by adding your choice of toppings to our special tomato sauce and cheese. You can also order for delivery, garlic bread, garlic bread supreme topped with Mozzarella cheese, and Pepsi to accompany your meal. Whatever your choice, whether you want to dine in, takeaway or have a Pizza Hut Delivery, at Pizza Hut, Shaw Ridge - You've Got It Made!

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NEWS & VIEWS Volunteer Visitors wanted!

If you have ever thought about becoming a volunteer visiting elderly people, but don't know how to go about it, why not come to Age Concern Tharnesdown's Introduc-

tory Day from 10.00a.m. - 3.00p.m. on Monday 11 February at the Link Centre. Volunteer OrganiserPat Chandler is looking for volunteers in the West

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Swindon area to visit and befriend older people - take them out in their wheelchairs, or for a drive, or to just sit and chat over a cup of tea. "Many older people do not get a chance to go out and meet other people, particularly at this time of the year" says Pat "so a volunteer calling in once a week can make all t:'e difference to them - and will be very rewarding for the volunteer who is, after all, gaining a new friend." There is no charge for the Introductory Day and a simple lunch is provided - so if you would like to book a place ring Pat on Swindon 692166 or write to her at 14 Milton Road, Swindon SNI 5JE

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Ironing is no chore for Carol How many like ironing- really? Not a great number says Carol Holiday from Shaw, pictured below. That's why she has set up Carol's Ironing Service, to take the chore away from busy people. She offers a lowcost, high quality service which will turn your heap of creased but clean washing into a neatly folded, crisp pile. Carol will pick up your washing and deliver the ironing for a small charge and she offers a very low price for regular customers. For one-off jobs she charges £5 per hour; for her weekly customers the rate is £3 per hour. Collection and delivery in West Swindon is SOp. Busy mums needing more time for themselves and their children, workingwomen and men who want their shirts to look sharp will all appreciate Carol's help. Let her iron out yourproblemsbycalling77O925.

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Do you find it hard to say what you want because you fear upsetting people or making them angry? Then why not come on an assertiveness for women training course. Assertiveness training • helps you to say what you think, feel and need without stepping on other people's toes • helps you to deal with situations you find difficult These courses are not about learning to be aggressive and pushy. Assertiveness is about saying what you need and also respecting the rights of others to do the same. The courses are run on a friendly and informal basis and any woman is welcome to come along. The course will be run locally at: The Link Centre (Community Suite) time: Every Tuesday evening 7.30p.m. to 9.30p.m. for six weeks beginning 12 February Cost: £15 or £1 for woman who are in receipt of benefit /pension/ on low income/students etc. To book a place on this course or for more information about this or other courses phone, write or pop intoThe WEA Women's Branch,36a RegentStreet,Swindon. Tel: 618233. Booking forms are also available in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. If you need help with transport or childcare please enquire.

Make life brighter with PAUSE Ladies, how has it been for you so far? (1991 that is),broke, half stone heavier, doom and gloom on the news? Well did you know that deep in the bowels of the Link Centre there is a determined group of women, from all over West Swindon, dedicated to bringing a little ray of sunshine into your life. Come up to the Community Suite on a Friday morning and you'll find we have something for all sorts, regular speakers, demonstrations and informal coffee mornings. So if you fancy a break from the kids, or you don't qualify for a mother and toddlergroup anymore we're keeping a welcome in the hillside for you at Pause. We have a free creche and there is a nominal charge for refreshments. There's no waiting list, but if you're nervous about coming alone call us on 539819 or 874135.

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under their appropriate headings, i.e. plumbers, places to eat, where to hold a birthday party, etc. Not only will WEST be a local community guide, it will also be the best means of finding out which businesses are providing a service to the people of West Swindon. An advertisement in WEST will ensure that your business has a high profile in West Swindon during 1991. To book your space in WEST call Elizabeth Wood on (0793) 871793 now.

lect Swit

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Name Address: elephone: Post Code: th'luilsu;lrcj,lesI , lull Il's/th ,,'rtç'ciç'..' in(,t Mark Nelson is.., l,cw,;sc'd u,sslfl look..',: o'euriii'u,,,l ci..lc'cf in,!..' li/c ionic /11111' /5.' ,t'i,iiiireil by the /c',ulc,: Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loan secured on it,

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Letters to The Link

Letters for publication should be sent to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 16th of the month preceding publication

More maintenance needed

Outer Circle Bus route

Lack of community spirit

From JacquelineAllcockof Grange Park Having lived in West Swindon for the last 2 years I have become increasingly vexed by the ground maintenance policy of this council. In particular I refer to Kiln Park. This was planted with shrubs and an elaborate circular affair with seating and gravel was constructed (presumably at great expense to the ratepayer) about a year ago. Since then this area has become overgrown with weeds and a half-hearted attempt by council employees to clear the area this summer hasn't improved the mess. I would be interested to read our councillors views on the wasteful spending by this council.

From Mr & Mrs Hookins, Pendennis Road, Freshbrook Having read Councillor Sue Bates letter regarding the Outer Circle bus problem, in the December edition of The Link, we would like you to know of our problem. My wife and l are both pensioners over 75 years old with health problems. Our Doctor is at Ashington House surgery. Because there is no bus any longer to attend his surgery, it now means walking, which we are unable to do. I wrote to the bus company complaining, but there was no reply. We hope that Coun. Bates will be more successful.

From a resident of Toothill. Name wit held for obvious reasons. Due to a minority of neighbours, life on a particular council estate is hostile and frequently aggressive. In imitation of the adults most of the children indulge in nasty gossip, fights, rows and anti-social behaviour. Also due to lack of parental guidance regarding the environment there is an abundance of rubbish and vandalised tress and shrubs. Unca red for dogs also foul private gardens. Survival, I've been told, entails the 'keep to oneself' philosophy. Community Spirit? What's that? Anything said to neighbourcanbe twisted. Recently the local press wrote about families suffering from isolation and about the high rate of marital breakdown in West Swindon. Is it not possible that a closer-knit friendly community would sustain itself better? On this pa rticula restate

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Thanks to policeman From Councillor Bob Pixton, Lambert Close, Freshbrook It is with both pleasure and regret that I write about Freshbrook's policeman, PCTrevorCarlton who has won promotion to seargent and has moved to a new patch in Swindon. During my activities as a local councillor I have had many meetings with Trevor and he has been an often and welcome visitor at my home, and at the weekly surgery that land Cur. Sue Bates jointly run. We have swapped information and sought advice from each other

One man refuse collector From MrIE Dix, Gerard Walk, Grange Park On Saturday 12 January, I went for a walk with my family to Lydiarri Park. I was extremely embarrassed by the collection of rubbish alongShaw Ridge near Wick Farm. In the discussions that followed it turned out that 'TI-IEY (the Council) should do something about the mess, but in afterthought the notion of 'do something' is far too easy and glibly made by too many who say, 'they' should do something. It is all of us who are 'they' and should be more careful in leaving rubbish on our walkways especially wherechildrenand animals seem to frequent the walk quite often. So on this morning, in between showers I set about cleaning up the area and collected: 3 tree roots, 2 bed matresses, a TV set, a battery and 3 road cones, a tyre, a bleach container,an old Christmas tree and 2 nappies (ugh!) and a fridge, and piled them into a big heap. I am appalled by the dumping attitude of people, when we have a

there are lots of very decent people afraid to 'get to know their neighbour', afraid to be of any help and support to those less fortunate. Those buying their council houses sell as soon as they can and others consider the council exchange scheme. If only people were more considerate, more honest and straightforward /caring; then life would be pleasanter for all concerned. However in spite of the poor community spirit I wouldn't live anywhere else. There are good facilities, shops and markets. The excellent schools do for the children what the parents, in some cases, fail to do! The quality of discipline and teaching in Swindon schools is better than most parts of the country, where parents have to opt for the private sector. Swindon has a lot to offer; life would be idyllic were it not for the neighbours. Maybe I expect too much! for the benefit of the community that we serve. He was a driving force behind the large number of Neighbourhood Watch schemes we have. At the Public Meeting in the Link on policing of the area, I asked questions about road safety and I believe it was due toTrevor's interest and commitment to the area that his senior officers agreed to him setting up his road safety investigation. Both Sue and I wish Trevor all the best in his new job and hope that his replacement can continue the work that Trevor set in motion. perfectly good tip at Barnfield Road. I know that you have to pick your time right to avoid the queue, but surely itis better than dumping iton gleen walkways. Anyone who dumps batteries (with acid in) and bleach containers where children can touch them, should be prosecuted in my view. Finally while clearing up the matresses, a large furry animal skurried off, the rubbish can be a breedingground for these creatures. I've written to the council asking them to clear it up - I'll check to see if they do.

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost ÂŁ3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Wanted: Faces Junior Club needs snooker and table tennis equipment. Reasonable price or donations welcomed. Tel: 644088 Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

Reporting on the Adver. Fifth year Greendown student Louise Wilkes is aiming to be a journalist. Last November she spent a week work experience at the Evening Advertiser. Here's her report on what it was like. Asking me if I enjoyed my work experience is definitely a 'no hesitation' question, the answer is 'Yes'! I had the time of my life. It was certainly not an experience I am going to forget. I spent the majority of my week with the reporters in and from the newsroom. Most of my time was spent going out with them following up stories. When I entered the news room for the firsttimeand took in the number of people around me, all deeply involved in their various personal assignments, I felt a slight nail bitingly anxious feeling creep over me. 'Will they like me? Will I fit in? Or will I be left on the sidelines with nothing to do for one whole tortuous week?' Questions whirled around my mind at a tremendous pace and never before had I felt so vulnerable or conscious of wanting to make a good impression. However I needn't have worried. They welcomed me as if I were a long lost friend and made me feel at ease straight away. The first thing that struck me was how friendly and co-operative everyone was with each other. No matter how tight the deadline they had to meet was, or what a frustrating time they were having trying to get evidence for their stories, they still managed to have a laugh and a joke, and were always willing to help each other if they needed advice. Having been introduced to the team, I was then presented with a plush swivel chair and desk - complete with V.D.U. system and tel-

Thanks from playgroup The Link Centre 3-5 Playgroup would to convey their thanks to a number of local firms which donated prizes for their Christmas Draw in early December. The playgroup children and staff worked hard to decorate their room for a special parents evening where the draw took place. The firms which responded to an appeal for prizes are: AnchorFoods Ltd, Barclays Bank plc, Bluebird Toys, Cairo's Nightclub, Canon Cinemas, Domino's Pizzas, Link Centre Ice-rink, Mays Carpets, National Westminster Bank, Pizzarama, Sainsburys, Superbowl, The Trawlerman, The Wyvern Theatre and W. H. Smiths.

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

Freshbrook evangetk Church

Anglican, Methodist,

Worsley Road gives YOU a warm welcome

U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill

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

Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421

St. Mary's LTregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Tony Price 870244

Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

Young wordsmith Louise Wilkes ephone for my own use. In those few minutes I had alone sitting at the desk I suddenly realised that within the space of 5 minutes I had been transformed from a wary 15 year old (whose experience in this line of work was nil) to someone who felt like she had been part of this dedicated team for many years, an expert in her job which fitted her like a glove. To cut a long story short I don't think I could have learnt more, met so many new and friendly people and experienced so much if I'd tried. I found it to be one of the most enjoyable and informative weeks of my life. It has also made me more confident about my ambition to become a reporter and even more determined than ever to achieve my aim in following up a career in journalism.

Garden club meet The West Swindon Gardening Club next meets on 11 February, 8p.m. in the Community Suite at the Link Centre with a speaker telling those attending All you need to know about mowers.'

Youth Club in need of help Greendown Youth Club has become a huge success with twelve and thirteen year olds since it started six months ago. Over 100 young people turn up each Friday to enjoy themselves in a variety of activities. The club is run entirely by volunteers and they now want to expand by starting sessions for first years but only if they can attract more adults to help out. They're looking for people who get on well with youngsters and are willing to take part in indoor games as well as football, basketball and other team games. Drama, computer and any other skills which young people may be interested in will be welcomed. However enthusiasm and a friendly nature are more important than skills. If you want to know more, give Larry and June Cheriton a ring on 873296.

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