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EXPRESS CYCLE GVOSPECIALIST No. 118 January 1992 • Circulation 10,500
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West's longest serving councillor to step down West Swindon's longest serving councillorRicky Midwinter has announced exclusively through The Link that he is not to run for reelection in May. The popular and at times outspoken councillor said his health, work and family considerations were the reasons for not seeking to keep his place on Thamesdown Council. Ricky successfully fought off cancer two years ago after long and physically demanding treatment. He said he wanted to repay the support his family had given him by spending more time with them. He was promoted recently at his company Emerson Electric, and decided that he could not continue his council work. Ricky was first elected in March 1981 shortly before West Swindon was transferred to Thamesdown
fromNorth Wilts District and has been reelected three times since then. During the 1980's he fought hard for social and community facilities to be built whilst the houses were being constructed. Healsoprovided advice and advocacy on behalf of thousands of people living in Toothffl,Westlea and Shaw/Sparcells as they were built. At different times he was chairman of Thamesdown's Community Development Committee and
DeputyLeaderof the Council. "It'sbeenadifficult decision to make, but really the only one I could make, considering the circumstances," said Ricky. "Council work has been central to my life over the last ten years and I've enjoyed working with people. "Some say that the West has ree ceived an unfair ceived share of resources. I say that it needed them, given that there was nothing here except houses. What kind of place would it be without
Good neighbours fight to keep Bert on site Residents in Grange Parkare campaigningto keep a pensioner in his caravan sited close to their homes. Bert Cheeseman, 65, has lived in a caravan off Hay Lane since 1978, on land owned by Bradley Homes, whoheworkedforasasecuntyguaxtl. Bradley closed down on 1 January 1992. In an attempt to clear up their affairs they tried to evict Bert during the week of heavy frosts before Christmas. The site heoccupies under licence is designated as public open space and the company wanted to hand it over to Thamesdown Council. However when Bradley gave Bert three days notice that they would be towing him away, his friends living in houses built in Grange Park over the last 10 years rallied around to support him. They disabled the caravan, mounted a guard and rang the newspapers to get publicity and local councillors to get action. Bert lives without running water, drainage orelectricity and heats
Bert Oieeseman, supported by neighbours
his caravan with a wood burning stove. He suffered a stroke in 1987, but his disability hasn't dented his resolve to live an independent life. "I've lots of friends around here and they've been very kind to help me out," said Bert. "I've never had so many Christmas cards."
Local people bring him meals, water, firewood, do his washing and allow him use of their baths. Janet Saunders from Chandos Close said people wanted Bert to stay where he was. "He's a lovely man, everybody knows him, he's like a night watchman. He was here long before we arrived; it's inhuman to uproot him." Jim Strutton from Rochford Close said Thamesdown Council were prepared to accept the land with Bert on it, providing Bradley applies for planning permission. He said, "Bradley allowed Bert to live here for 14 years, but now he's an inconvenience they want to tow him to common land. "The Council will allow Bert to stay where he is and are offering Bradley a legal way out of their problem. But they seem to want to get rid of him and refuse to negotiate." The residents have vowed to continue their backing for Bert in his battle to keep his home.
meeting spaces, the Link Centre and schools? "It's been a privilege to represent this area because of the challenges for all of us living here. The support for my actions from local people and at times their willingness to lobby the council to get things done is a tribute to community spirit. "On the down side, the frustration and the lack of power to help the increasing number of homeless and housebound people has at times left me in despair." Ricky added that strong voices were still required onThamesdown Council to keep the needs of the West at the forefront. He commented that he may start a campaign to support the idea of Parish Council's which could generate income to support community activity in the future.
Motor Show on the road for July A date has been set for the Motor Show featured on the front page of last month's Link magazine and some of Swindon's leading motoring names have indicated they will take part. The show, organised by Greendown School parents, is set to take place on 11 and 12 July. So far Honda, Walker Jackson Ford, Dick Lovett Mercedes, Mazda, BMW, Great Western Garages Peugeot and VW Audi have said they will be putting on displays of their vehicles. The fire and police services will be represented and the GWR MegaRig will also be on hand. Motorbikes and custom cars will be on show, as well as stalls, activities for children and refreshments. The organisers are still interested in recruiting help from parents and other people living in the area. If you have ideas or can offer practical assistance, telephone Veronica Hammond on 0666 825800
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The Alternative Sunday Lunch by Cynthia Dowdeswell
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For several years now people from the various churches in West Swindon have met for Sunday lunch. One Sunday in every two months we forget about the mast beef (or whatever!) and enjoy what is jokingly called a 'frugal' mealof homemade soup, bread and cheese, and fruit. Our aim is to give what we would have spent on our meal at home to help Third World charities like Cafod and Christian Aid. The money raised is usually well over £100 and it goes to help worth-while projects like well digging, in Third World countries.
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As well as being a fund-raising effort the lunches have lots of other benefits. Those who usually have lunch on their own can spend an hour or so in good company. People from the different churches can get to know one another better over the meal. Children enjoy being with their friends. One mother says that her family prefer it to the Sunday meal at home! It's also an opportunity to buy items from Traidcraft, which is an organisation encouraging people in the Third World to get a fair deal for the goods they have to offer. As well as tea, coffee and recycled paper products, there are many handcrafted items which make excellent gifts. The Third World lunches circulate between St Peter's, Toothill and Shaw churches and are sponsored by the West Swindon Churches for Justice and Peace Group. The next one is at St Peter's at 12.30pm on Sunday 19 January.
Link Centre Charity Market Saturday 18 January Bargains galore at the stalls arranged by community groups To book a stall, telephone 871212 ext 234
Yummy puddings
Ready to tuck intoa creamy banana cake donated and held up by Sheila Ratcliffe of Yarmouth Close, from left, Audrey Hutchinson, Bryan Hutchinson, Mick Dams, Ann Hutchinson
A Pudding Party in December advertised in last month's Link magazine produced donations of delicious desserts. Visitors to Ann Hutchinson's house in Cromwell, Freshbrook were able to sample them at 40p a portion. The party organised by Audrey Hutchinson of Turnham Green, Freshbrook raised £78 for the Childrens' Society. Another party is being planned for later this year.
Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon
"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 Editorial: Roger Ogle, centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from Publisher/Editor advertising." Tel: (0793) 872282 Contents 4 Toothill Advertising Sales: 5 Freshbrook Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 & Grange Park 6 Westlea I Apple Macintosh design, 8 Shaw layout and lasersetting 10 At Your Library Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol 11 Arts Scene Published monthly. 12-13 Recreation 14 - 21 News and Views Copy date for February 21 Greendown School edition: 17 January Community Programme The February edition will be 22 Letters to The Link 23 The Reference Page published on 31 January The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for
business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.
Into 1992 This is the beginning of The Link's thirteenthyear. Yet we're constantly surprised by the amount and variety of news, views and information to be covered. We shouldn't be really, considering that West Swindon with some 10,300 households is almost a new town in itself. The year has been tough for all businesses. Like everyone else we've been affected by the recession, though not as badly as some publications. We've held up because of our advertiser's loyalty. Free publications rely on readers to use the services offered by advertisers. They've stuck with us during difficult times as they know they'll get good response. Why should businesses waste their money on advertising if it's not going to be effective? The Link continues to be strong because it is actually read closely for
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what's going on locally - not just skimmed over or ignored and thrown out. Our targetted readership is specific and we deliver things straight, no sensationalism. And would you believe it, we try to make news out of good news! We see our role as making a contribution to the process of developing our young community. It is always gratifying to hear so many people say that they read the magazine from 'cover to cover,' because it is their major source of information and is a vital connection between people. We always welcome suggestions and indeed if you're keen to try your hand at reporting local issues, give us a call. As we go into the New Year, we wish you all - readers and advertisers - a good one. Many thanks for your continuing support.
Another successful year for Swindon Cable 1991 was a year of changes at Swindon Cable. It was goodbye to British Telecom the previous owner and hello to C.U.C., a Canadian company with over 30 years experience in cable T.V. A huge market research exercise was carried out among Swindon Cable customers to find what improvements the viewers wanted. The result was a completely new-look family package that included CNN, MTV, Lifestyle and Scnensport on top of the channels already being offered. Of course there was a price rise, but the company is happy to report that this did not affect the number of customers which is actually rising. Marketing
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ManagerTony Dukenfield, said, 'The satellite dishes are coming down all over Swindon as people realise the advantages of cable. In fact, you'd need four seperate dishes to get all the programmes we provide." Swindon Cable has also changed its policy on The Movie Channel and Sky Movies Plus. It is now possible to receive these channels one month at a time instead of for three months. Future plans include theprovisionofTheComedy Channel and other developments in the pipeline. The year ended on a high note. As Swindon Cable was coping with a rush of new customers wanting to be connected for Christmas, the studios were visited by Prime Minister John Major where he gave an exclusive interview for the Local Channel.
For full written details please contact Swindon Cable, Newcome Drive, Howksworth Estate, Swindon, SN2 1TU.
TOOTH ILL
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Bookies lose out
RALPH PALMER PHARMACY
A bid to set up a betting office in an empty shop unit at Toothill Village Centre was thrown out by Thamesdown Council's planning committee after a site visit in December. The Link revealed the proposal in November and reported that local councillor Ricky Midwinter had vowed to stop the council letting the shop unit to a bookies because he felt that the community would benefit from a better use. He objected to the idea of a bookies at the area's first shops when they were being built ten years ago. Infants at Toothill School told the story Coun. Midwinter argued that of The Smallest Angel who finds the Thamesdown was prevented in alplace where the baby Jesus can be born. lowing a betting shop to be opened Rear, from left, Jamie Rundle, Shannon because the government's shopping Reyes, John Newman, Tanya Gray, policy requires that shop units Natalie Moss. Front, Rachel Gray, Caroline Witchell, Leanne Eatwell
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New typing club
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Toothill Handicapped Typing Club are looking for new members to join them on Friday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. Come along and learn to type in a friendly family atmosphere, have a chat, meet new people and enjoy a cup of tea. Transport and typewriter provided. For more details please telephone 641380.
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Robbie Dams and Thomas Liewellyn won the fancydress competition heldat a Christmas party for members of Toothill's Jack and Jill Toddler Group
Tasty Xmas lunch for OAPs Seventy members and friends of the Toothill Lunch Club held their Christmas dinner in Toothill Community Centre at the beginning of December.
Head cook Lily Wiley and her teamprepareda delicious traditional dinner for the club members who were entertained afterwards byJohn Holmes on his organ. A cracking meal, from left to right, Clarence Bean, Effie Pennycook, Ada Austin,
Julia O'Brian, Edith James, Lily Wiley
West Swindon - Tel: 526780 62 - 64 Purton Road.
should be used for retail purposes where there are five or less on one site. "I'd like to thank all the people who supported my stance," said Coun. Midwinter. "The first article in The Link strucka chord; once again, the community spoke up in favour of the sensible course of action." He saId he received twenty five letters and a petition from the Toothill Church congregation opposing the betting shop, and two letters in support of one. The only other bid for the shop unit came from a video hire business. However the M&W store lease with Thamesdown allows it to hire videos and their objection to another outlet being set up could delay the opening of a new shop.
FRESH BROOK & GRANGE PARK
Jumble Sale
No traffic calming at Freshbrook Centre A long standing call for mad safety improvements around Freshbrook Village Centre has beenturned down by Wilts. County Council. Local councillor Bob Pixton has been campaigning for a number of alterations to reduce the dangers to pedestrians by the heavy traffic in the area. These include: • a mini-roundabout at the junction of Gainsborough Way and Worsley Road. • ramps (raised pedestrian crossing points) by the Windmill Pub and next to Uxbridge Road • a stretch of pavement from the Windmill Pub to Winstanley Road, to assist pedestrians who walk around the roundabout. The danger points will stay on the list for consideration when plans for
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Saturday 18 January Freshbrook School lOam
future spending are put before the County Council next year. Coun. Pixton said he was very disappointed by the decision. "I've tried to tell them about the number of elderly people, the youngsters with their parents and those with mobility difficulties who cross Worsely Road to and from the village centre and the two schools nearby. The sheer weight of traffic and the attitude of some drivers makes crossing the road hazardous. "But I'm told the road is safe because there have been no accidents; we've heard it so many times before. Unless there is a tragedy, the highway authority will not act." He said he will continue pressing the case for safety measures before there is an accident.
Nativity plays at Freshbrook and Windmill Hill Schools
20p admission Donations of good jumble to the school from 13 January please. Organised by Friends of Freshbrook School.
Indoor Boot Markets (Not Traders) Sunday 12 January Sunday 26 January Freshbrook Community Centre Buyers from 9am Closes 12 midday Tables £5 each For more information, call 871017 or 872450
Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am- 1pm 2. l5pm - 630pm Saturday 9am- 12noon
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A few of the many infants from Freshbrook School who took part in the production of 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' at Freshbrook Church. From left, rear, Gary Bracey, Stuart Oxslade, Jasdip Chain, Glenn Davies, Daniel Hogan, Andrew Mans. Front, Cherry Fowler and Jenna Derbyshire
Children from different year groups at Windmill Hill School performed four playsfor parents atFreshbrook Church. Above, a Year 5/6 nativity scene with Alisha Newman as Mary, Lindval Nicholson as Joseph in the centre. From left to right, Gavin Killick, Lisa Baker, Amy Ratcliffe and Matthew Allen
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Firefighters win charity trophy
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The fire fighters at Westlea Fire Station are celebrating their success of being the top fund raising fire station in Swindon after their first full year of operation. The three stations in the town, Swindon,StrattonandWestlea,compete annually for The Jubilee Bell. The amounts raised are not made public as other forms of charitable effort are included in the judging.
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Westlea School infants performed a nativity play for parents in December. Some of the players were, back row, from left, Victoria Wells, Gary Oliver, Sarah Norman; Middle, Joel Blake, Thomas Firucci, Cohn McKenzie; Front, Ryan Anderson, Sam Turner, Luke Powell
Appeal for safe riding
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A mother from Westlea is appealing to bicycle riders to take care of where and how they ride their bikes after her son was knocked over. Jane Stevens from Silchester Way was returning with her sons Neil and Danial from Windmill Hill School when a bike rid den by a teenage boy appeared around a corner and knocked Danial flying. The incident took place at the be-
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ginning of October at the top of the footpath next to Edington Close, Toothill, where pavement and cycle way merge. "The cyclist came round the cornerso fast that he didn't have time to stop; he just ploughed straight into Danial," saidjane. "Therewasblood streaming down his face and I really thought his eye was damaged. He would havebeen very badly injured if he was smaller, but luckily he was just cut and bruised on the face." A passerby kindly carried Danial home and the bike rider apologised profusely for what he had done. However Jane wants both parents and schools to get the message acluss to riders to think about pedestrians. There are lots of parents pushing buggies or with very young children toddling along slowly and the appearance of heavy mountain bikes going at speed can be frightening. "The footpaths are not meant to be bicycle race tracks; a little more care is needed," said Jane.
Displaying their trophy, back row,from left, Acting Divisional Officer Simon Raith-Jones, Firefighters Bruce Weatherston and Paul Brew, Leading firefighter Chive Hawes, Firefighters Andy Collins and Andy Mangnal; Front, Firefighter Pete Newman and Sub-officer Andy Hargreaves
The Westlea fire fighters have raised cash for guide dogs for the blind, run raffles at family functions at the station and took part in tin rattling for Cystic Fibrosis. Just before Christmas they went out on the streets of Westlea to sing carols, but this time not for money. Leading firefighter Give Hawes said charitable activities was one way of making the station feel part of the community.
Santa was delivered in great style to Westlea School's Christmas Fete on 30 November, compliments of a luxury carriage supplied by Dick Lovett Porsche on Great Western Way. ÂŁ1,700 was raised for school funds.
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Cancer group benefits from cake stalls Shaw's Womens Institute presented a cheque for M50 to the local branch of CLIC (Cancer and Leukemia in Children) at their Christmas party in December. CLIC was selected as the group's good cause following a talk lastJune by Carol Mattingly, shortly after she
founded the branch. The money was raised by holdingcakeand craft stalls and coffee mornings. The W.I. members were entertained by the Bassett School showband. Right: The WI. committee present Carol Mattingly, right, with a cheque for CLIC
Playgroup for Peatmoor A meeting to plan a playgroup in the Peatmoor Social Hall will be held on Wednesday 22 January, from 7pm to 9pm at Brook Field School. Anybody with ideas, suggestions or is interested in helping to start the playgroup, is invited to attend. Telephone Jackie Wozniak on 873284 for more information.
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Right: Shaw's Salt Way School in Middleleaze raised £1,500 at its Christmas Bazaar in early December. Everybody had to visit Father Christmas including Adam, Leah and Nina Bevan
Edwardian days at Shaw Ridge Seventy youngsters from Shaw Ridge School presented ditties, monologues and jokes from the past to parents in December. Pictured below, moustaches and flat caps for the boys, bonnetsand shawls for girls
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10
Books on films
by West Swindon Librarian Phil Edwards
Exhibition Kicking off the exhibitions at West Swindon Library for 1992 is the Wiltshire Art Teachers Association's exhibition of children's art. The exhibition opens on Saturday I Ijanuary and ends on Saturday 1 February. We also have a display of work by children fromToothillSchoolon the village of Snap, just to the south of Swindon. Snap disappeared at the turn of the century after a long decline, but the youngsters carried out a fascinating study of its history and last inhabitants which is shown in
writing, photographs, artifacts and a model. Some of the material has been exhibited in London as an example of good primary school practice. New Books Feature films and television series often bring to prominence books which would otherwise have remained relatively obscure. A recent exampleof this wasThomasHarris's Silence of the Lambs'. The book has been much requested in libraries since the film's success. 'Dances With Wolves' is another
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film which has received tremendous accolades (winning seven Oscars). The novel on which it was based has now arrived at West Swindon Library. The author is Michael Blake. He also won an Oscar for the screenplay for the ifim. HE Bates is a writer whose work has been somewhat neglected since his death in 1974. However, 'The Darling Buds of May' produced by Yorkshire Television and starring David Jason, has revived interest in Bate's work. 'The Pop Larkin Chronicles' is an omnibus edition of five 'Larkin' stories, including 'The Darling Buds of May'. The 'Thorn Birds' television series brought Colleen McCullogh much recognition as the author of the original novel. She has now set out on an enormous six-novel saga covering the lives of certain prominent citizens of Ancient Rome. The initial volume was 'The First Man in Rome'. The second and latest in the series is called 'The Grass Crown'. Laurie Lee's autobiographical trilogy, which began with the evergreen 'Cider with Rosie' and continued in 'As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning', has now been
completed. The third volume is entitled 'A Moment of War'. It tells of his experiences with the International Brigade in the Spanish Civil War, and in particular the "bitter winter leading to the Republican Army's defeat", during which time Laurie Lee narrowly escaped execution by the Brigade on three occasions. We also have a small collection of books dealing with local subjects. For those interested in Wiltshire's history, David Buxton has produced a marvellous work entitled 'Wiltshire of OneHund red YearsAgo'. With photographs and contemporary descriptions, David Buxton covers the years spanning the turn of the century. The photographs are excellent and the selected texts from diaries, newspaper reports and the writings of contemporaries like Alfred Williams and Richard Jefferies give a real flavour of the social history of the period. The large format of the book gives the photographs a striking impact on the page. As always if any of these titles are not immediately available on the shelf at West Swindon they can be reserved for a small fee.
Below, Assistant Librarian Jacquelyne Else, centre, reads stories to pre-school children on Wednesdays between 10.30am and 11am. There's the Discoverer's Club for 8 to 13 year olds on alternate Thursdays between 4.15pm and 5pm
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Pre-school next steps West Swindon Under 5s are holding at meeting on 24 January to review its activities during the autumn and to decide whether there is enough support for further events during the year, including another of the very popular under 5s festivals in June. Anybody who wants to find out more and perhaps offer help with planning activities during the year is invited to attend the meeting in the Community Suite at the Link Centre at 9.30am.
If you've got a West Swindon story, give The Link magazine a call on 872282
ARTS SCENE Looking further afield There's nothing on in Link Arts during January! So what's happening in the rest of Swindon over the next few months. Some highlights: For Children Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 January, 7.30pm, Arts Centre, Old Town Perils of the Pond - a delightful new play for children following the underwater adventures of Gubble and friends. Saturday 8 February, 2.30pm, Link Arts Studio The Guizer - Gambolling Guizers in their new children's show. Masks, movement and mime are used to tell classic stories from aroundthe world. Ideal for 7-11 year olds. Tuesday 25 -Saturday 29 February, 2.30pm & 7pm, Wyvern Theatre The BFG - Roald Dahis Big Friendly Giant adapted for the stage. Great half term entertainment.
A good night out for the family
Where can you go as a family in the evening and have a great time together? How about a barn dance at The Dance House? Not everybody's choice at first thought, but you'd be surprised. The Dance House is a new enterprise to bring the best British folk dance bands to Swindon. Judging by the first event in December, the organisers have a winner. There's a really friendly atmosphere at a barn dance where everyTheatre body is taught what to do by the Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 January, 7.30pm, Arts Centre Harvey - The Phoenix Players present Mary Chase's play about a man's band caller. You don't have to know the dances beforehand and don't relationship with an invisible rabbit. worry about what other people are Saturday 1 February, 7.30pm, Arts Centre thinking they're concentrating on 'Moose' - International clown getting the steps right as well. The company The Right Size create a children can take part as well and world of dark suspense where anyhave great fun dancing with adults. thing could happen and often does! The Dance House takes place Sunday 2 February, Arts Centre monthly at the Ellendune CommuKathakali Dance. A display of the nity Centre in Wroughton, between extrovert and exploding Indian dance 8pm and 11.45pm, where there is a /drama style, full of mischievious licensed bar. The cost is £4.75 for humour and powerful emotion, famous adults, £3.50 concessions and £1 for for its vividly colourful costumes, beautiful Moose under 12s. make-up and larger than life characters. On 18 January, local band FeckFriday 7 February, 7.30pm, Arts Centre, Old Town. Rites and Lies. Gambolling Guizers in an athletic silent performance less lead the dance, followed by Towhich owes as much to slapstick as it does to the dark and potent world ken Women on 22 February and Woodpeckers on 28 March. of ritual, expressed by two talented dancers. Tickets are available on the door, Monday 10 - Saturday 15 February, Wyvern Theatre but to make sure you get one telStepping Out. Richard Harris' hilarious comedy. ephone Janice Booth or Alan Howe Comedy on 641107. Saturday 22 February, Link Arts Studio Alan Davies. One of the rising stars in comedy. Intelligent, surreal, engrossing and very funny. Events Thursday 13 February, Town Hall Studios. Special FX. BBC Visual Effects designer Mat Irvine presents an evening of visual trickery including props, models and examples of his work from Blakes 7 and Doctor Who. Full details of these and other Arts Events in Thamesdown, see the brochure available from 493195 or the Wyvern Theatre on 524481.
Players wanted to work with top conductor One of the south-west's best brass bands is looking for players to join. The Swindon Pegasus Brass, who are sponsored by Readers' Digest, play throughout the area and wilibe competing in different parts of the country during 1992. A concert tour to Salzgitter, Swindon's twin town in Germany, is also planned. Nigel Weeks was recently appointed musical director and the band is hoping he will take them to great competition success. He has considerable experience in training and conducting bands in Wales and during 1991 helped Tredegar Town become Welsh champions and took the Welsh team to third place in the European Championships. Players of all instruments will be To find out more, call Lairaine welcomed and in particular the band Phelan on 876570, or go along to a needs cornet players, a tenor horn reheasal. These are held: Sundays at player, a bass player and percus- lOam and Thursdays at 730pm in sionists. the British Legion, Havelock Square.
11
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In the swim of things Promotions Assistant Ali Thompson introdues new activities for 1992 at Link Centre
It's the New Year and we're here to help you get fit. How about some swimming. There are hree new swimming sessions for all the family to enjoy.
Duringthe following times 2 lanes will be available Tuesday to Friday 12 noon -2.00pm Tuesday to Thursday 5.00pm - 7.00pm Train in a lane Saturday and Sunday Lane ropes will enable the more se5.00pm - 6.00pm rious swimmers or those wishing to One lane rope will be available as improve fitness, an opportunity to usual, at other times. swim uninterrupted.
4:3-rFzn-v-c.-" for Strength Local fitness expert Lee Hogan says flexibility is good for life
Whether you are a ballet dancer, body builder or someone who prefers to take their exercise at an aerobic class an important part of your training should include an element of stretching or as I prefer to call it flexibility. All good training programmes and exercise routines include an element of flexibility but why, and what are the benefits? Flexibility is defined as the range of movement of a joint or group of joints, this may be affected by damage to the bones of the joint but the most common factor affecting flexibility is the inability of the muscle surrounding a joint to stretch to their maximum length. In most people joints have the potential to move through a greater range of motion than the muscles surrounding them will allow, but through regular stretching the muscle capacity to extend fully can be increased allowing the joint a greater range of motion. Some quite dramatic increases in flexibility can be made over a relatively short period if good stretching exercises are done a regular basis. Increased flexibility can help prevent problems such as muscle soreness and muscular tears, prevent muscle inflammation and speed the recovery from soft tissue injuries.
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Play rafts and toys will be available for all the family to enjoy. Fridays 500pm - 7.00pm
Duck and Dive A fun session for all the fa mily. Bring along a mask, snorkel and flippers and expl9re the very depths of the Link Centre pool. Saturdays 11.00am- 12noon. And we have something new for 13-16yearolds whoneed to livenup your Saturday mornings.
Saturday Club for youngsters Come along for organised games, free swim and one of the following tutored activities; soccer, basketball, volleyball, trampolining, climbing, badminton /short tennis/table tennis. Thecoursenins 1.l5am-1.00pm, starting on 18th January. Furtherdetailson this and all other activities are available from Main Reception on 871212.
Change for local sports shop
Activities such as jogging, football and netball all have the effect of shortening the muscles especially in the legs and it is important to lengthen these muscles to prevent injuries in the future. Finally another benefit of stretching, which has been well known in yoga circles for years, is that it can promote muscular relaxation, when a muscle becomes tense itis in a state of partial contraction which increases the blood pressure and wastes energy, so always remember to stretch and maintain your flexibility on a regular basis.
31
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Westside Sports at Shaw Village Centre is taking a change in direction. All the present stock is being sold off to be replaced in the new year with displays of sports equipment. Westside founderTomTaylor, from Freshbrook, is teaming up with I-TM Sports, a major importer of hockey, cricket and football equipment from India. "Catering for the leisure market wasn't working for us but we saw the need for a showroom where sports players could view a wide range of equipment," said Tom. 'We'll be catering mainly for hockey and cricket players, plus soccer and rugby; they'll be able to see a much wider range of equipment than in any other sports shop." As the equipment will be imported direct from the manufacturers Westside Sports will be able to sell goods to the public at well below high street prices. They will also stock a basic range of shell, track and shower proof suits and footwear. Whilst stocks last, there are some bargains to be had with clothing being sold off at 20% below their previously low prices and footwear going at 10%.
13
NEWS & VIEWS
Bowls club ready to roll A West Swindon indoor bowls club is now looking for members. Three full sized mats have been bought by Greendown School for use in the sports hail by people living in the area. Experienced bowlers and those who want to learn to play are invited to join in. The club meets officially for the first time on Sunday 6 January between9.30amand 5.30pmand every Sunday after during the season. Depending on demand, there may also be Saturday afternoon sessions as well. John Slade from Westlea, one of a small group who have been testing out the mats, said they were fast, accurate and would satisfy the most demanding bowler. "The mats are good for bowlers who want to keep their hand in over the winter and the facilities are very good for anybody who wants to learn; we'll teach them the rules and provide the bowls to play with. There's no special cloth-
Ta k e tim e to invest in your future John Barlow and John Slade, ready to teach newcomers to bowling
ing required, just flat soled shoes or even carpet slippers. "Bowling is a great social game, especially forolderpeople. Just come along on a Sunday between 9.30am and 5.30pm and meet the rest of us."
New centre boss The new man in charge at the Link Centre is Roger Byrne. He moves from the Oasis after four years as deputy coordinator where he was involved in bringing customer service up to a level set by the British Standards Institute, the first centre in the country to achieve such recognition. As well as being Link Centre coordinator, he will be responsible for overseeing the introduction ofQuality Assurance standards in 13 recreation sites across Thamesdown which are now run by an independently managed direct service organisation.
Link Centre creches under threat There was a modest turn-outofpeople at the Link Centre Open Forum on 5 December. Half a dozen members of the public taook the opportunity to put their point of view to councillors and managers. More creche facilities were requested in addition to those run on three mornings a week. Although there is considerable demand upon them, the Centre cannot presently offer additional provision. It was explained that the new Children Act may result in a reduction of the creche service because of new staffing requirements. Regarding health suite equipment, there was a complaint that the quality of the suite was deteriorating, but the managers said problems would be rectified early in the new year. However the free loan of towels would be discontinued because users keep stealing them. There were several questions about music in the Ice Rink and
booking of ice time for skaters and a request to increase the cost of bookingcanis so that the numberof booking card holders would be reduced in order to make more courts available for the casual user. It was explained that the principal of the booking card is to allow members of the public to reserve a facility in advance and therefore reduce the risk of turning up at the centre only to find that a facility is fully booked or not available. More books in the Link Library were called for. The Wilts County Council area librarian said there are 37,000 books held in the Link Library of which 45% tend to be on loan at any onetime. The library is presently 100 books below target, but these will be introduced in the next financial year. Lastly a member of staff said he had received a comment from a visitor on the helpfulness of Link staff which was much appreciated.
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Light sparks ideas
New Year, New Job?
A project at Oliver Tomldns Infants School which started out as a study of light in September evolved into one which looked at the workings of a hotel, and in December took on a Christmas theme. Deputy head Kathy Stamford said that night and day, shadows and reflections and the Hindu Festival of Diwali, the festival of lights, were just some of the topics investigated by the Year I and 2 classes. But a visit to see the lighting at Blunsdon House Hotel was a high point of last
term which stimulated great interest amongst the children. "Blunsdon House were wonderful," said Mrs Stamford. 'They treated us like their top customers by showingus around the hotel and letting us use one of the conference moms. The children loved it and have done some tremendous work. And as we approached Christmas we were able to compare the workings of a modem hotel with the problems Mary and Joseph had when they found there no room in the inn."
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Children at Shaw's Jellytots playgroup performed Cinderella for their parents and then were entertained a week later when staff put on the same pantomime.
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Hotel workers in school,from left, David Ford, Hailey Stevenson, Siyana Hirani and William Banyard
The New Year is traditionally a time for making plans for the future and thinking about new directions. Perhaps you are looking fora new job? Thinking about retraining or brushing upon existing skills? Or maybe you are thinking about returning to work after a break? Would you like help to find out what is available locally and how to make a start? If so, the Adult Guidance Unit should be able to help you. It offers free advice, counselling and information to anyone over 19- whether you are unemployed, in a job, in training, returning to work after a break or changing career. For West Swindon residents and those for whom getting into town is difficult the AGU provides an outreach service at the Link Centre. A guidance worker is available in The Mall area every Tuesday morning from lOam to 12 noon. You don't have to make an appointment, just drop by. There will be someone that you can talk to and plenty of information leaflets to take away with you. The main service is based in the Old College Buildings in Victoria Road,Swindon. You can contact the Unit direct by telephoning 618866 or why not call at the Link Centre on a Tuesday morning.
Curly Sue winner
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The winner of our MGM competition last month was C. Watkins of Harcourt Road, Swindon. A Curly Sue rag doll and a voucher for a hairdo at Freshbrook Centre's Cut 'n' Dry salon is on its way
Pool marathon A late entry in fund raising activities for Children In Need took place in early December when members of Greendown Youth Club took part in a 24 hour pool marathon.
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From left, Nicola Ham, Debbie Spencer, Nicky Shepherd, Karen Gibbons, Kit Webb, Donna Smith, Louise Gale; Back row, Craig Brett, Richard Williams
15
NEWS & VIEWS
No computer courses available An adult education tutor is upset that computer evening classes at Greendown School have been cancelled for this term. Liz Mann from Ashburnham Close, Freshbrook, has complained that students taking her word pmcessingclass have had tobetransferred to other classes run by the College in other parts of the town. Some have had to give up because the times were inconvenient or they cannot get to them. "It's a great shame there are no opportunities to learn computer skills," said Liz. "Greendown is a community schooland there should be community access." She added that school staff had worked in their own time to keep her course going last term.
West Swindon Adult Education Organiser Alex Sandell explained that running computer courses had become increasingly impractical because of equipment breakdowns. She said that new courses involving word processing and other computer applications using the school's new computer system were being considered. Greendown headteacher Ian Matthews confirmed that the school's heavily used BBC computers were over fiveyears old and now unreliable. He said that discussions about courses on the new Macintosh computers were taking place, but pointed out the school does not receive payment for use of equipment which had been paid for from the school budget.
Kids Sleep Klinik (Birth to 4 years) How many times were you awoken last night? Drop in and see us. Perhaps we can help sort out the problem with you. Thursdays 16,23 & 30 January Carfax Street Health Centre, Swindon, 1pm - 3pm West Swindon Health Centre, 1.30pm - 3pm Organised by Health Visitors Jane Lee, Alison Naylor,
Sue York and Celia Phipps
Saying what you think and feeling good about it Lack of confidence, being too relaxed about things, feeling frustrated because you've agreed to something when you should have argued against it? Life is full of decisions. How do you make them with confidence? An eveningclass in Assertiveness at Greendown School during the autumn helped a group of adults say what they think and two participants think that their lives have been changed. Both decided to take the course for different reasons. Jenny Ricketts recognised her sense of self worth was at a low ebb. "1 wanted to get a grip on my life and face up to the ingrained conditioning." Kieran Couglan had been told by his boss that he did not assert himself enough. "I had the reputation of being so laid back that if pushed I'd fall over." "I felt trepidation about starting the course because you have to start to reveal things which were hidden and sure enough the first session was about describing our fears of being in the room with the other course members." After five weeks Kieran was able to tell people at work. He expected some ridicule, but the reaction was interest in what he was doing. The course sessions are made up of discussions about how course
members havebehaved in situations during the previous week and exercises or games designed to explore how people react. "I often find myself in a situation a couple of days laterwhich relates back to the course and I'm able to react differently than I would have before," said Jenny. "1 now feel good about putting my point of view. But being assertive is not about being bossy. It's important to hear what other people are saying and respect them for it communication is a two way thing. "The course is helping me put myself more in control. I feel positive and justified in not responding in the way I've been conditioned to." For Kieran, relationships at work are changing. "1 find myself taking a more assertive line and there is a different rapport with colleagues. People are hearing what I say." Both Jenny and Kieran say they want to continue meeting in a group or take another course to develop their assertive outlook. For people who would like to take the first steps in asserting themselves, there's an introductory course on Saturday 18 January, between lOam and 4pm at the Health Hydro in Milton Road. The cost is ÂŁ17.50 or ÂŁ3 for anybody on benefit or a low income. To find out more or to book a place, call Lucie Hartley or Laurence Yeoman on 486434.
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Townswomen into the New Year
Quilters cover three beds West Swindon's Poppydown Quilters, pictured right, have spent the last nine months raising cash for the Schofield Ward at Princess Margaret Hospital. They set out to buy one Roho inflatable mattresses - designed to support patients whilst preventing bedsores-they in fact raised enough to buy three of the special mattresses and a similar wheelchair cushion. Altogetherthequiltershaveraised just under £1 ,500, by holding handicraft stalls at Link Centre charity markets and raffling at giant quilt made by member Susan Mitchell of Woodhall Park. Poppydown secretary Joy Jansen said the group would like to express their thanks to all who helped in the fundraising by making and buying items, and selling raffle tickets. The winner of the quilt was ticket 3275 from Nythe. Other prize win-
Sally Davies writes: West Swindon's Townswomen's Guild look forward to the New Year and wish everyone a successful 1992. Guests are always welcome, so do come along and hopefully you will join our membership.
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Our next meeting takes place on 9 January in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, 2pm - 4pm The speaker will be Anna Caning who will talk about Aromatherapy. For more information, please telephone 873567
Tel: 0793 613147, 0793 488622
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4
A new club to help dog owners also aims to gives dogs a better reputation in the community at large. The Top Dog Training Club was started at Freshbrook Community Centre in the autumn by Bev and Wally Kimber who own five Rottweillers and know what it is to like to be shunned in public. Bev said seeing a well behaved dog in the strioet is a good advertisement for dog ownership. "Our aim is to help people train theirdogs and become responsible owners. Everybody wants well disciplined dogs and we do this using encouragement, praise and a consistent approach to develop a good, friendly relationship. "A dog is never too old to train, but it means an owner has to work harder if they've picked upbad habits before they come to training. Once in a club, people tend to keep coming as its a sociable activity and it helps to maintain the dog's discipline." Dogs can start training after their injections at around fourteen weeks and the classes concentrate on domestic obediance at first. The club also runs competition training classes.
Home from home Abbeyfield House in Swindon provides care and companionship for the elderly by providing independent accomodation in a mediumsized family type house with support from a resident housekeeper and volunteer helpers. Residents are expected to look after themselves as there is not nursingcare provision. Thehousekeeper provides a midday and an evening meal in the dining room and residents are responsible for getting their own breakfasts and snacks. Selection of residents is made by the local Abbeyfield Society and priority is often given to those who are lonely and would benefit from the companionship of living in the house. If you have a relative or friend who may wish to become a resident of the Abbeyfield House in Bath Road, Swindon, telephone Mrs Cawte, the Admissions Secretary on 822455 or the Housekeeper on 538429.
Sue Benford from Grange Park on the left and Bev Kimber, with their dogs
The Top Dog classes take place on Friday evenings atFreshbrookCommunity Centre, 8pm - Obediance; 9pm - Ringcraft. They cost £1 per class and there is a £2.50 annual membership.
Challenge for young people The new Duke of Edinburgh season starts now. If you're between 14 and 25 years, have a spirit of adventure and don't mind 'having ago' at anything, then taking part in the D of E scheme could be for you. Young people and parents can find out more by calling Chris or Gill Lowthian on 693731.
Confident youth football club Youngsters of the new Westside under 12s football club held a Christmas dinner at the Village Inn on 13 December. Since forming in September, the club has raised £700 from a sponsored walk,a penalty shoot-out competition and a raffle. The club strip is sponsored by Westside Sports at Shaw centre and the money will be spent on purchasing water proof clothing for the boys and other equipment. The club will be starting an under 13 team in addition to the under 12 in September. The lads train between 6pm and 7pm at Greendown on Tuesdays. To join, call Jane Dart on 875400.
NEWS &VIEWS
17
Putting children at the centre stage of divorce In the middle of West Swindon an children. Child protection proceorganisation tries to get parents dures are also strengthened and the across Wiltshire who are going legal process, where it happens, is speeded up. through a divorce to consider the "It's very difficult to say how the needs of their children. Tucked away in a suite of offices, new law will work out," says Alan. "All legislation takes time to estabalmost underneath the Link Centre lish itself, but the basic philosophy is the Wiltshire Divorce Court Welfare Service. Few people know it's is good. It gives children powers to there, but through its doors go some express theirown views and wishes, of the unhappiest people around. either through other adults workHeading up the service is Alan ing with them, or being able to voice Sealey who explained that last year their own opinions to the court, if there were 2,700 divorce petitions to they are of sufficient maturity." theCountyCourtinWiltshire,(1,112 Marriage breakdown and divorce from Swindon alone), excluding all appears to be an increasing feature those who go through the Magisof modem society and sadly chiltrates Court in separation proceeddren will continue to be the innoCourt Welfare officer Alan Sealey outside the offices at the Link Centre ings. Where the magistrates or judge cent victims of dispute and strife in is concerned for the care of any chil- physical or sexual abuse of children may only be permitted to make con- relationships. On the bottom line dren involved, or there is a dispute by the other parent, the officer has to tact by letter or the telephone, and the Court Welfare Service tries to over custody or access, the court investigate the allegations very the legislation gives the court the get parents to consider what is right welfare service is called upon to pre- closely in co-operation with other ability to appoint people other than for the children, rather than who is pare reports involving both parents professionals and be very sure that parents to take responsibility for the right in the argument. on making the best arrangements the risk of such abuse if proven is for them. unlikely to happen again when mak"At first our ing his recomaim is to meet the mendations to parents to see if the court. If necWORD PROCESSING The figures don't reveal agreement can be essary, legal Letters, CV's, Mailshots, Manuscripts and Reports the pain experienced reached for the safeguards will All work produced on a Hewlett Packard Laser Printer by so many care of the chilbe recomNationally 370% of all marriages For a fast professional secretarial service, dren," said Alan. mended. end in divorce and 50% of "If the parents The Children phone Maureen on 881733 (West Swindon). second marriages break-down. agree on the best Act came into These figures don't count future for the chilforce last Octocouples who live together who dren, we report to ber and affects breakup. Its estimated that by the courtand if the the care of chilthe year 2000, 3.7 million judge is satisfied, dren in many FOR THE SELF EMPLOYED & SMALLER BUSINESS children will be living in stepthen the divorce fields - from the families - 25% of all children. can proceed." registration of With these stark national "However, in playgroups by + EASY TO USE ACCOUNTS PACKAGES averages, it is no consolation many cases the socialservicesto that the nature of ThamesWITH VIDEO AND GUIDE parents are at war how courts deal down's young, mobile and with each other with arrange+ KEEPS BOOK-KEEPING TO A MINIMUM AND LEIS aspiring population means that and we cannot ments for chilthe figures locally are US GIVE A FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTS/TAX/AUDIT reach agreement. dren on their significantly higher. In a recent This means that parents' divorce SERVICE study of 234 marriages before the court asks us or separation. the divorce court in Wiltshire, + HOT LINE SUPPORT - REGULAR HELP MEETINGS to prepare a full Abouttwenty 70% had not survived ten report on the case five different years. Some degree of RING NOW FOR FREE NO OBLIGATION DISCUSSION and in addition to laws have been physical violence (mainly men seeing the parents abolished or on women) is involved in 40% MILL HILL ASSOCIATES • TEL: (0793) 874260 we may visit the of the cases referred to the amended and children in the Court Welfare Service. brought under home, speak to one piece of leggrandparents, islation, introdoctors, social workers and others ducing new ideas in child care and a NATIONAL VACUUM CLEANER SERVICES involved. Often the most difficult lot of new terminology. Alan says part of our job is to break through that underpinning the Act is the idea the personal animosity that parents that parental 'rights' are replaced by YOUR LOCAL, FRIENDLY SPECIALIST for service repair have towards each other, to get them parental 'responsibilities.' It means to most makes of VACUUM CLEANERS AND POLISHERS to see things in terms of what's best also that there should be no state forthechild. Unfortunately thechil- intervention in child custody or acSales of machines, dustbags, belts, etc. dren are sometimes used as tools in cess matters unless parents cannot Direct Phone to Workshop a battle between adults, which agree, and it is better for the childoesn't do anybody any good." dren. 9am - 5pm weekdays 0285 - 712991 The changes introduced include The whole process can be long, involved and relies, in addition to the possibility that children can live rii: ESTIMATES the research of the case, a great deal with either parent for agreed periU ItL4L COLLECTION & DELIVERY TJ4 on the professional judgement and ods of time and that access to chilFor a Fully Guaranteed, Expert sometimes even a gut feeling of the dren is replaced by contact arrangeand Speedy Repair Service Welfare Officer said Alan. In par- ments. In this a parent may (or may Evenings: Swindon 881007 ticular where a parent is accused of not) be allowed to meet children, or
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NEWS & VIEWS
18
Design wins award from national company Three students at Greendown School a 'Design in the High Street' Dewere presented with a platinumdisc sign/Technology project which reon 13 December for their work on quired them to work in teams to designinga record presentation rack. look atthe problems businesses have All the Year 9 students took part in to face when designing shops and
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selling their goods. The teams could study interior environment of shops or systems for displaying products. During the ten week project, students visited the W.H. Smith headquarters at Greenbridge and the company's Swindon store to see how shops are designed and products are marketed. Brian Won-all, head of music marketing, spent time in the classroom working with students on research techniques and statistical analysis. He said, "It's important for corn-
parties to be involved in education and the approach to learning at Greendown deals with problems faced by people in the real world." He said the winning entry of an in-store record display rack made byLoulse Mackie, Nicola Forderand Andrea Popjoy had followed the brief closely and their work showed how they had researched the project, built and tested prototypes. "It's obvious that a lot of thought, time and effort went into their work," said Mr Worrall.
Brian Worrall of WI-I Smith presents platinum disc to the design project winners, Louise Mackie, Nicola Ford or and Andrea Popjoy
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Six yea rold Michelle Steadman from Godolphin Close, Freshbrook entered a colouring competition run by Texaco depicting a scene from their road safety campaign, 'Children should be seen and not hurt.' Her entry was one of three selected to be made into Christmas cards and sold in aid of the National Childrens' Home. The Windmill Hill School pupil and her family had a day in London which included a shopping trip to Harrod's where she had ÂŁ100 to spend on toys. Michelle's mother Sue helps out at the WestSwindon Family Project, an NCH family support scheme acReady for decorations to be displayed at tive in the area. Michelle with one of her cards Brook Field, beck row from left, Robert Mills, Matthew Edwards, Lucy Gammage, Krystle Cinquegrani, Nicholas Hypolite. Front, Helen Raine, Gemma Ratcliffe, Jade Dixon Three local schools took part in the tree dressing weekend in early December. Pupils at Shaw's Brook Field Primary and Westlea Primary and Greendown schools decorated trees to celebrate the value of trees to life on earth. Trees all over Thamesdown were dressed by schools and community groups. Children in Year I and 2 at Brook Field had help from artist Marie Brett to prepare decorations depicting the sun, moon and the stars.
NEWS &VIEWS
19
Road safety - Everybody's issue Pedestrians are at risk from vehicles allover West Swindon because of their sheer numbers, sight lines blocked by landscaping and planting, bad planning and inadequate pedestrian routes, and the speed, impatience, thoughtlessness and lack of consideration of some drivers. A year ago The Link magazine published a plea by Swindon Police for information on danger spots in the area. You sent in many letters, but the ever-increasing restrictions on local government spending has made remedial action unlikely for the foreseable future - unless somebody is seriously injured or killed. Unfortunately it'll take a fatality to see action. We print the points of conflict you put forward to the police: • Parking and poor standard of driving in and around Salt Way School, Middleleaze at the beginning and end of the school day. • Parking around Toothill school gates • Bus lay-by is needed outside OliverTomkins School, Beaumaris Road, Toothill where blockages often take place at school arrival/departure times • Exit from Brook Field School, Shaw is on a blind bend and is very dangerous when cars park on either side of the school gates • All schools need zig-zag lines, school signs and flashing lights • The Tjunction of Westlea Drive and Rivenhall Road where vehicles cut the corner. Junction needs redesigning. • I junction of Liskeard Way and Gainsborough Way requires a central island to prevent motorists cutting corner • The lack of a footpath along Welton Road (to the Tennis Centre) in Westlea • Parking in the road outside Barclays Bank, Rivenhall Road, Westlea • The curved design of Ramleaze Drive, Shaw makes exit from Alpine Close dangerous (See letter from the Police on page 22) • Pedestrian crossing on Ashington Way next to stream is very dangerous because of traffic coming off large roundabout. • Barriers are needed at pedestrian crossings on Rowton Heath Way,Toothill and Ramleaze Drive (next to Tamworth Drive), to prevent cyclists shooting across the road. • The lack of surface level access to Blagrove Industrial Estate across Whitehill Way. • Speed limits on Whitehill Way and Tewkesbury Way should be restricted to 40mph from 60mph. • Better sign-posting of the Hotel Ibis to drivers using the bus only lane off Great Western Way at Mannington roundabout • Crossing point needed from West Swindon Centre to doctors surgery on Rivenhall Way • Crossing Freshbrook Way from Westminster Road, Toothill is dangerous because vehicles are hidden from view by the rise in the hill • There are many near accidents caused by impatient drivers overtaking othervehicles approaching Mannington roundabout along Tewkesbury Way when they are suddenly faced by oncoming vehicles coming off the roundabout
Crossing point at Corton Crescent between West Swindon Centre and Westlea. There were calls for action last year, but little has been done following a report to a Thamesdown Council committee. Crossing point across Whitehill Way between Eastleaze and Westlea. A footpath link was put in three years ago, but parents and children still risk life and limb Readers can easily add to this list. Whatis to be done? With each crossing point costing up to £10,000 and the reluctance by the the highway authorities to slow traffic down using 'sleeping policemen,' it's difficult not to have a gloomy view of new safety measures being introduced in the area. Pedestrians just have to watch out and drivers have to take extra care. If you know more danger spots, let us know.
Apart from the points made to the police, the following could be thrown in for good measure: • Speed restriction measures required on Cartwright Drive, especiallyby the new play area • Foot access to Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, next to Pizza Hut, is hazardous • Lack of footpath along Sudely Wayto Holinshead Place to connect with the path up Grange Park Way
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Getting married in 1992? January starts the wedding season and Sharon Fowler from Freshbrook and Tracy Blackler will help with all your dress needs. They run Fairytale Bride hiring and selling top quality dresses in the latest fashions for the bride and the bridesrnaids,and outfits forpageboys. Their dresses are exactly the same as you find in shops, but at much lower prices. Each dress is individually made for the bride. "We try to create an informal, friendly and helpful atmosphere where a bride can choose her dress," says Sharon. "We want to make sure her wedding day is special." Sharon and Tracy in their fitting room Fairytale Bride's number is 727763.
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Keeping the roof over your head in 1992 will be very important for most people. Mike Roes of local mortgage and pension advisors Mansfield Bebie Associates takes a close look at the options available With the housing market at a standstill with a large number of properties waiting to be sold, general opinion is that it will not be until well into 1992 that housing prises start to rise again. With interest rates relatively low a variety of lenders are offering discounts to attract newbusiness. There are a number of mortgage and remortgage schemes available where discounts are on offer for up to 12 months and fixed rate schemes forup to 6years fromas low as 9.5%. Whether you are a first-timebuyerlookingforlOo% loans orseeking to raise capitalby rnmortgaging, it is clearly a good idea to seek advice fmmabroker who is not linkedup to just one lending institution. It is best to consider the wide range of schemes available froma number of high street lenders, because you then have a choice of schemes that may only be available to valued introducers, such as Mansfield Begbie Associates, to oneof theleadinghigh street building societies. Monthly payments on mortgage of 00,000, interestonlyover20years, can 'vary from £336.46 to £423.23 (net payments allowing for MIRAS on £30,000), a difference of over £86 which is quite considerable and the lower figure is NOT a low start mortgage payment, merely a very generous discount! There is also the type of mortgage that you decide to take out, eg. repayment, endowment or pension linked which is very important and can vary depending upon the ages of the borrowers, the size of the loan and the type of employment a borrowerfinds himself in. Forinstance, a self-employed builder aged 40 years old looking to borrow £60,000 would generally be far better suited to a pension linked mortgage than a 25 year old employed first-time-
Mike Rees working on a mortgage quotation buyer, although each case is assessed individually. Another question we are asked constantly is, 'What do we do with ourexistingendowmentpolicies?' I would state categorically that existing policies should be kept going as the only person likely to benefit from the sale of a completely new contract would be the sales representative advising you. A small top-up contract should beputin place where necessary, ideally to fit in with the term remaining under the existing endowment(s). Another aspect of financial services advice is the subject of fee charging by the broker for advice given uptoand including the dateof mortgage completion. This can be as high as 1% of the loan arranged! Mansfield Begbie Associates are a Company that do NOT charge arrangement fees. If you or your friends have any queries on mortgages, pensions or insurance in general, please contact Mike Reece on 873369 for advice and a free no obligation quotation.
Clubs and groups meeting at Greendown Community School, Grange Park Greendown is a community school. All facilities including Gym, Sports Hall, Classrooms, Grass Pitches and All Weather Games Surface are available for hire at modest rates. Contact Pat Lewis, Community Booking Clerk on 874224. The many Adult Education classes at Greendown are not listed. For course details, contact the organiser on 871413. To find out more about one of the groups listed below, contact the person given, or make a visit when the group meets. Monday Greendown Playgroup. 915am - 12.15pm; 1245pm - 245pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
Thursday Greendown Playgroup. 915am - 1215pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
Corcorde Girls Gym Club. 5.15pm - 7.15pm. Sports Hall Contact Sally Martin 852490.
Arabic & Holy Quran studies for Muslim children run by Jamia Mohammadia. 5.30pm - 7pm. Dining Room. Run by Mr S. Khan.
Ju-Jitsu. Juniors: 630pm - 730pm; Seniors: 7.30pm - 10pm. Gym. Contact Steve Cole, 872445. Basketball Club. 715pm - 825pm. Sports Hall. Contact Steve O'Sullivan, 874224. Tuesday Greendown Playgroup. 915am - 12.15pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
GWR Majorettes. 6pm - 730pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Corinna John, 873024. Ju-Jitsu. Juniors: 630pm - 730pm; Seniors: 730pm - 10pm. Gym Contact Steve Cole, 872445. Taekwando. 630pm - 8pm. Drama Studio. Contact Tim Neave, 874224.
Greendown Playmates Toddler Group. 1 .45pm - 3.45pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
Concorde Badminton Club. Juniors: 630pm - 8pm; Seniors: 8pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact John Hare, 874008.
AFC Greendown. Football training for under lOs. 430pm 5.45pm. Sports Hall. Contact Gary Williams, 873664.
Springs 'n Things Trampoline Club. 6pm - 8pm. Sports Hall. Contact Mrs Walker, 876333.
Arabic & Holy Quran studies for Muslim children run by Jamia Mohammadia. 530pm - 7pm. Dining Room. Run by Mr S. Khan.
Friday Greendown Playgroup. 915am - 1215pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
Springs n Things Trampoline Club. Juniors: 6pm - 730pm; Seniors: 8.30pm - 10pm. Gym. Contact Mrs Walker, 876333.
AFC Shaw. Football training for under lOs. 430pm. All Weather Pitch. Contact Steve Gunn, 874621.
Swindon Hockey Club. Ladies: 6pm - 8pm; Men: 7pm - 9pm. Sports Hall /All Weather Pitch. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245.
Junior Youth Club. 730pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite.
West Side United F.C. for under 12s. Training 6pm - 7pm. Sports Hall. New players call Ron Sproule, 875400.
Concorde Girls Gym Club. 6pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact Sally Martin, 852490.
Taekwendo. 630pm - 8pm. Drama Studio. Contact Tim Neave, 874224.
Duke of Edinburgh Open Award Centre for 14 to 25 year olds. 7pm - 9pm. Room 5/6. Contact Chris Lowthian, 693731.
Senior Youth Club (14s - 25s). 7pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Youth Worker: Richard Williams.
Air Training Corps. 7pm - 9pm. Dining Hall . New recruits, contact MrSigsworth on 491317.
Wootton Bassett Ladies Hockey Club. 7.30pm - 9pm. All Weather Pitch. Contact Sarah Gardner, 854235.
Saturday Concorde Girls Gym Club. 9am - 1pm. Sports Hall. Contact Sally Martin, 852490.
Bodies by Design - Total body conditioning to music. 730pm - 830pm. The Gym. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. Wednesday Greendown Playmates Toddler Group. 930am - 11 .30am. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Greendown Playgroup. 1245pm - 2.45pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. West Swindon F.C. training. Under 12s: 5pm - 6pm; Under 14s: 4.30pm - 630pm. Gym/Sports Hall. New players call Frank Bridges on 873298. Community Drama Club. 6pm - 10pm. Drama Studio. Contact Jools Dowling, 874224. Swindon Hockey Club. 6pm - 9pm. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245. Woodcraft Folk Youth Group. 630pm - 8pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite/Dining Hall. Contact Phillip Lewis, 487706. Bodies by Design - Fitness class for absolute beginners. 7pm - 8pm. The Gym. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. West Swindon F.C. (Senior team ) training. 8pm. Sports Hall. New players call Andy Morton, 723568
Swindon Hockey Club. Juniors: 10am - 12 noon; Seniors: 12 noon - 6pm. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245. Concorde Badminton Club. 7pm - 11pm. Sports Hall. Contact John Hare, 874008. Sunday Swindon Hockey Club. 9am - 12noon. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245. Swindon Radio Controlled Model Car Club. 9am - 230pm. Gym/Playground. Contact Mike Forder, 695681. Indoor Bowls. 930am - 630pm. Sports Hall. Bodies by Design - Fitness training mainly for men. 6pm - 7.15pm. Sports Hall. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. Bodies by Design - Total body conditioning to music. 730pm - 830pm. The Gym. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928.
22
Letters to The Link
West Swindon drivers From T Wilson, Toot hill
Parking at West Swindon has becornea joke to local motorists, courtesy and laws on parking are completely disregarded. Instances such as parking on double yellow lines has now been overcome, with cars, vans and lorries straddling the lines with two wheels on the pavement or grass verge, with the other two wheels on the roadway! Parking in bus stop bays, and at road junctions and bends, blocking the view of oncoming traffic, and many more blatant instances
shows total disregard forotherroad users. The Freshbrook Village Centre is another instance where the parking spaces are taken over daily by employees of National Power and other employees of the Windmill Business Park, denying local community motorists free use of parking facilities when using the village centre amenities. As the police do not orcannot do anything about these offences, a mobile traffic warden on a moped or some such vehicle to tour the area would be a welcome asset to the considerate motorist.
Speeding on Ramleaze Drive, Shaw From Superintendent Rodney Legg, Sub-Divisional Commander-Swindon North
I noted the letter in the November edition of The Link from Mr Lane of Shaw concerning speeding on Ramleaze Drive. Both myself and my predecessor have been in communication with him over this matter, but I would like to comment on the policy of the Police relating to the numerous complaints we get about traffic matters. These are passed on to my Divisional Traffic Department, which includes an Accident Prevention Unit and a Speed Enforcement Officer. They make a professional assessment of thesituation and pass a report on to me. In many cases, a complainant's perception ofaproblem is not borne out by the evidence and we always inform them of our findings which may, or may not, sustain their complaint. If recommendations are made by my Officers relating to speed limits or traffic calming measures,
these are passed to Thamesdown Council and it is their decision on what action should be taken to introduce changes. The enforcement of speed is a matter for the Police and, indeed, is a priority in the Chief Constable's Policy Statement for 1991 and this will remain as an ongoing commitment. However, resource implications means that problem locations are not looked at as often as I would like. I would like to finish by saying that many accidents are caused by drivers acting with completed isregard for their fellow road users whatever speed limits or traffic calming measures are in operation in a particular area. The ultimate deterrent is prosecution before the Courts and the Wiltshire Constabulary are committed to apprehending offenders by high priority traffic policing, especially with regard to drink/driving which is a menace to us all
Make a New Year dedication on BBC Wiltshire Sound Make adedication on the Chris Highton Sunday Show which is broadcast on BBC Wiltshire Sound between 10am and 12 noon. Fill in the details on the form printed below and send it to Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting House, Swindon SN1 313W. Every time he reads out a dedication, Chris will mention The Link
T
To: Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting House, I Swindon SN1 3RW. I Dear Chris Highton, Please play my dedication.... My name: Address: Tel: Dedication for: Address: Date I would like it to be played: [_Dedication form from West Swindon's magazine The Link
Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ
Company backs Christmas card idea From Sheila Ratcliffe, Yarmouth Close, Toot hill
Helen Lawrence's Christmas card with a 'bauble' for each department. idea (December Link magazine) My boss was very understandwas well received in my office. So ing and didn't complain when I well in fact that we decided to inkept going missing to collect signadude the whole company. tures. In one week, more than 150 Six of us spent an enjoyable evening designing and making a people had signed the card and donated £150 to Cancer Research. giant card. A Christmas tree covWe'lltiy tobetterthat figure next ered the whole of the front page year!
Litter From Mrs S Denning, Middleleaze Drive, Shaw
Asa resident of Middleleaze Drive, Shaw, I write to express my disappointment at the continuing litter problem we have in this area. It appears to be on the increase, even though we are all persistently reminded of the dangers, and of course the harm litter causes to the environment. I find it sad, that some residents of this attractive area lack the responsibility to dispose of their litter correctly. Although not an excuse for this lazy attitude towards the localenvironment, it is obvious that the Shaw Centre, Ramleaze and Middleleaze
areas lack adequate provision of litter bins. To highlight the problemlwould like to urgeall LinkMagazine readers to write to: Mr Derek Bristo, EnvimnmentalandTechnicalServices, Princess House, Swindon. Of course responsibility ultimately lies with the residents of these areas todisposeoftheirwaste correctly, but provision of sufficient litter bins would give them the opportunity to act more responsibly and leave them with no excuse for treating the area as one big litter bin.
Petcare help From Sarah Carter, Thu rley Drive, Grange Park
Readers will be interested to know that I run the local Friskies Petcare Helpline' and I'mhere to provide a friendly listeningearandofferonestop practical advice for pet owners. In the past couple of months I have had calls from all over the county. I've helped owners with straydogs and cats and even helped a lady whose cat had got stuck in a drainpipe! The Friskies Petcare Helpline network is staffed by volunteers across Britain and supported by a panel of leading industry representatives including the National Canine Defence League and Cats Protection League. I have a comprehensive directory of numbers and contacts of local organisations and experts to pass on to the worried pet-owners. As Swindon's 'Agony Aunt' for
Police centre in west People living in WestSwindon will soon feel more secure now that the Home Office has at last given app proval for a permanent police station to be built in the area. Wiltshire Constabulary applied ten years ago to build a station to serve the northern sub-division. At a cost of £5 million, construction next to Westlea fire station will commence in January 1993 and take two years to complete. It will also serve as a base for the traffic division will patrols theM4 motorway.
pets, I'm willing to take calls on any pet problem. If I can't help, I can find an organisation that can. I can be contacted on 874090.
The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Dog Clipping. Contact Sylvia, Freshbrook. Tel: 692834 For Sale Atari 520STFM Computer, printer, software & manuals. Tel: 877819 THE HAY DIET "Don't Mix Foods that Fight" New course starts 13th January. Monday 7pm - 9pm. Commonweal School, Old Town. Six sessions -£15. Bookings: tel: 491591 Swindon College. Further info. 813493 Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook Washing Machine Repairs • Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin • Tel: 694930 1 Alnwlck, Toothill
THE REFERENCE PAGE LOCAL COUNCILLORS TOOTHILL, WESTLEA, SHAW & ROUGHMOOR/SPARCELLS
Thamesdown Borough Council Ricky Midwinter, 4 Anglesey Close, Westlea. TeL 873537 Rosemary Saunders. Tel: 861044 Jo Stevens. Tel: 874798 Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, I The Holbeins, Grange Park Tel: 875129 Surgeries forMidwinter and WinmilL Friday 6pm-7pm, Community Room, Toothill School. FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK
Thamesdown Borough Council Sue Bates, 8 Selby Crescent, Freshbrook. Tel: 872247. Simon Cordon, 53 Matley Moor, Liden, Swindon. Tel: 617723 Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317 Surgeries for Bates & Pixton: Wednesday 7pm-7.30pm, Community Room, Freshbrook School. Wiltshire County Council Simon Cordon - as above. INFORMATION FOR NEW ARRIVALS TO WEST SWINDON
Information on local services, community groups and maps of the area are available from the Community Suite in the Link Centre. Tel: 871212 ext. 234. LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES
Doctors • Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894. • Doctor R. Houseman, Link Surgery, Link Avenue, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 877017. • Doctor Kandiah, I Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253 and Sparcells Drive, Sparcells. Tel: 881928 • Doctors Ketkar, Matheson, Nixon, Flowers, Holden, Chippendale, Swinyard & Farnham, Ashington House, Ashington Way, Westlea. Tel: 614840. • Doctor G. Reddy, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. Health Visitor Team, West Swindon Health Centre, West Swindon District Centre. Tel: 877233. Child Health Clinics: W. Swindon Health Centre Tuesday 11 .3Oam - 4pm Friday 9.30am - 4pm. Ashington House Surgery: Monday 1.30pm - 3pm Shaw: Church Hall, Village Centre. Wednesday lOam - 12noon Freshbrook. Dr Reddy's surgery. Thursday 2pm - 4pm Sparcells: Community Centre. 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month. 2pm - 3.30pm Family Planning & Cervical Smears. Free clinics at West Swindon Health Centre: Wednesday 6pm - 8pm & Friday2pm - 4pm. No appointment necessary. Pharmacies • Ashington Way Pharmacy: Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6pm; Sat 8.30am - 12noon; Sun 11.30am - 12.30pm Tel: 616840. • Coopers, West Swindon Centre: Mon - Thurs 9am- 8pm; Fri 9am - 9pm; Sat 9am - 6pm Tel: 872033. • Facechoice Pharmacy, Freshbrook Village Centre: Mon - Fri 9am - 1pm & 2.15pm - 6.30pm; Sat 9am - 1pm Tel: 870226. • Lloyds Chemists, Shaw Village Centre: Mon - Fri 9am - 630pm; Sat 9am - 5pm. Tel: 886076. • Ralph Palmer Pharmacy, 3Deerhurst Way, Toothill: Mon - Fri 9am - 1pm & 2.30pm - 6pm; Sat 9am - 12noon. Tel: 512063. Dentists • Brendan Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 873044. • Mrs. Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340. • Ann Gulley, West Swindon Health Centre. Tel: 877422. WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINTS
Welfare Benefits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Mon, Wed & Fri 10am-12noon. Toothill AdvicePoint,Toothill Community Centre. Tuesday 10am-12noon. THE CHURCH
Anglican-Methodist-U.RC.-Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221. Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Church Office. Tel: 873050. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel:874400. Jamal Mahammadia Muslim Prayer Group. Mr S. Khan. Tel: 881262
THE LINK MAGAZINE. TEL: 872282
23 Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards
Freshbrook Church Worsley Road
Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's Llregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L Millicent Lrn
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Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday I Oam
Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm 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
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