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No. 188 • January 1998 • Circulation 17,500

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Nest Swindon histo ry researcher Sheila Mitchell has provided The ;ink with a national exclusive. As far as she knows, the British media vere completely unaware of a royal connection in New Zealand's All Hacks rugby team which toured in November and December. nels in New Zealand Sheila, from Westlea, made a big thing of Frank xused her attention on Bunce's royal connection ne time rubbish collec)r FrankBunce. Dubbed after the documentary ie prince of centres for was shown; I was surprised there was no menis strong running and .0 ard tackling, Bunce 1 tion over here when the All Blacks were on tour. ould also be a Royal ^ "The royal story is quite rincebecauseofhisfamy descent from King George III. well known in Rex family houseSheila has been researching the holds in South Africa and the South elationship between the Prince of Pacific where descendents of Vales, later George III, and a George Rex settled. "Apparently Frank Bunce beuaker woman Hannah Lightfoot )r about 20 years. The liaison came aware of his background roduced two sons and a daugh- when the All Blacks toured South er. A Channel 4 documentary in Africa in 1992 when he came across .' l y, The Legend of George Rex, told distant relations. He kept quiet 1e story of one of the sons with a about his blue blood, probably to ossible claim to the throne, who avoid the royal ribbing from team as sent to South Africa in 1797 mates. He does not appear to have nd told never to speak about his raised the matter when he met the Queen during a reception for the ackground, nor to marry. In the August Link Sheila put the All Blacks at Buckingham Palace rogramme makers straight on a in 1993. Now the story is out, zw points, including the fact that perhaps he can give some tips on 1e children were illegitimate and how to play rugby like a prince to ould not have been in the royal Peter Phillips, the rugby playing ne. "Newspapers and TV chan- son of HRH the Princess Royal."

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Hospital meeting set for 6 January ' WE COME TO YOU'

Swindon people have another chance to see plans and express their views on the proposed hospital for the town at a meeting in the Link Centre on 6 January. A planning application to build Supporters of this site claim it is the hospital to the east of the town the only suitable place to build the at Commonhead, close to junction much needed hospital within a 15 on the M4, was lodged by the reasonable time scale. There are Swindon and Marlborough NHS suggestions that funding from the Trust with Swindon Council in government through the Private mid-December. The planning Finance Initiative will be lost if the committee will consider it in the project does not go ahead quickly. However opponents of the site next few weeks.

say the hospital should be built close to the town centre at Churchward with improved public transport, and not on green belt land. With 10% fewer beds than PMH, they say the new hospital is too small for the growing population of the area, even though the length of hospital stay will be shorter in future. Meeting organiser councillor Phil Rashid said that public consultation on the hospital has been Abbey Meads village centre on Elstree Way will not be ready for poor. "There are major concerns Easter as reported in The Link last May. In fact, it is unlikely that about the location of the hospital, residents will be shopping and going to the pub until late autumn. its size and how people are supposed to get there. This is an opAbbey Meads community assoportunity particularly for people ciation chairman Ian Dobie said he living to the west and north of the had spent weeks trying to find out town to find out more and to exwhy construction did not start in press their viewpoint on future November as predicted. "Resihealthcare in Swindon." dents have been calling me to find Representatives from the Swinout what is going on. There are don and Marlborough NHS Trust vastly different accounts of why there has been a delay, depending will present the scheme and answer questions from the audience. on whether you talk to the HaySwindon South MP Julia Drown don Development Company or will also attend to listen to what Swindon Borough Council. people are saying. "We w an t to see a speedy resoThe meeting takes place at the lution to problems so that the vilLink Centre on Tuesday 6 Janulage centre can be built. It will be "The school site has been avail- ary from 7pm to 9pm. The plans a scandal if there is a knock on delay and the school cannot open able to the local authority for over will be on display from 6.30pm. in September 1999." a year so I don't expect any change David Thompson from the Hay- in the building programme." Village Centre developers Mac don Development Company said there had been a reappraisal of the Neighbourhood Centres signed an project after Swindon Council had agreement with the HDC on 19 decided to combine the commu- December to commence detailed nity centre with the primary school. design work. All legal contracts " We had a legal agreement to should be in place by 25 March so build the community centre and that the eight month construction all weather sports pitch within the can start in early April. village centre. We were initially Ian Dobie said he is trying to get very unhappy with the change but all parties to a community associaunderstand the community asso- tion meeting early in the year so ciation supports the project. that residents are kept informed.

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Published by West Swindon Publications

13 Castle Dore Freshbrook,Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink Editorial: Roger Ogle Publisher/Editor I Apple Macintosh design & layout Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

Copy date for February edition: 16 January Published: 31 January Copy for March: 13 February "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 a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994."

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TABf, tlr:D 1843

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Report recognises good teaching, but criticizes school management Freshbrook School has been recognised by Ofsted school inspectors as being a harmonious community, with hard working teachers, where attainment in the core subjects of English, maths and science is in line with national standards. However the inspectors, in their report published justbef ore Christmas, says the match between what pupils are offered and the requirements of the National Curriculum are not adequate. It criticises inconsistent pupil progress, inadequate monitoring of performance, and the lack of an effective management structure.

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The report says, 'attitudes to learning are satisfactory and most pupils respond positively to their teachers and show interest in their work. Most pupils behave well in lessons and their conduct around their school is also satisfactory. Pupils are courteous and are quiet and respectful during periods of reflection in assembly.' Although a few pupils are disruptive, the school has satisfactory procedures to promote discipline and good behaviour. Teachers are commended for their commitment and care. The quality of teaching was satisfactory or better in four out five lessons seen. However, the inspectors express concern about the balance and breadth of the curriculum. 'The disproportionate allocation of time to the core subjects, particularly English, leads to an imbalance of time for other subjects.' Standards of attainment in information technology, design technology, physical education and religious education need to be raised. Communication with parents are good and are recognised

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Well travelled bobby on the beat A new policeman started pounding the streets of Freshbrook from 1 January. PC Rob Mortimer has switched jobs with PC Tim Gardiner, who will be driving the response car in the north sub-division out of Westlea police station. Rob, pictured right, has been with the Wiltshire constabulary for nearly five years. He has a degree in forestry from Aberdeen University and used to be a local authority arbocultural officer. When the job became desk bound, he took off on a 14 month trip to South East Asia and the South Pacific, which included six months as a tree surgeon in Australia. "I play rugby with quite a number of police officers and my brother is in the CID, so I had a lot of encouragement to join the force," said Rob. "The attraction of the job is the variety of tasks; you really don't know what will come up."

Police changes from 1 January:

ERMIN WINDOWS

as a strength of the school. The inspectors identified weaknesses in how the school is managed and called for an effective structure to be established, which includes involving governors more in school affairs. Over the last ten years the school has shrunk in size from a peak of 850 children to its present size of 450, and has had to reorganise staffing and management several times.

West Swindon area Inspector Chris Williams has been promoted to police headquarters and is replaced by Inspector Paul Longdon. Toothill officer PC Dave Hobman has joined the Wiltshire

As a beat officer Rob will be getting to know community problems and pursuing routine enquiries in the area. He can be contacted on 528111. police training division and is replaced by WPC Deborah Davey. WPC Karen Rosier, beat officer for Grange Park, has been ap-

pointed as Divisional Domestic Violence Liaison Officer and is yet to be replaced.

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

New school to relieve pressure

Brook Field bakers get Asda help Roald Dahl's book'George's Marvellous Medicine' gave year 4 children at Brook Field School some ideas as they studied how materials change under different conditions last term. Like George, the youngsters enjoyed making their own mixtures when they had a chance to invent bread recipes. Swindon College catering students showed them bread making techniques and Asda provided all the ingredients. Testing some marvellous bread rolls, Mark Plumbridge and Bev Tyler from Asda, with parent project organiser Maureen Connell, with from left, Joanne Phelan, Kritian Rejek, Scott Rivers, Laura Marsden, Christopher Petrus, Paul Stebbings, Elizabeth Addis, Joshua David, Charles Salmon, Nathan Ashman

Eileen Roberts from Swindon Council's education department and architect Simon Morris show off plans for Roughmoor School to David and Kathleen Reeves who will live next door

Plans for West Swindon's tenth primary school goes before Swindon Council's planning committee in January. Once approval for the eight class 240 place school combined with a community centre has been given, building work should start by June with the first children to start in September 1999. Plans for the school were displayed at Sparcells Community Centre at the end of November where Barry Thompson of Swindon Council's community centres officer said government approval to build was only given on the basis that there would be community use of some of the facilities. "Despite all the mobiles and pressure on organisation at Brook Field School, government planners did not consider there was a long term need for another school in West Swindon," he said. "The innovation of building community facilities into the school convinced them that there would be value for money." The hall and catering kitchens will be shared and the community meeting rooms will be as large as those found in centres at Toothill or Freshbrook. He added that security issues were a high priority and an a and the school had been planned in consultation with the police. Building of Roughmoor Village Centre is now well under way. The Whitbread pub should be open by Easter and shops will ready for the summer.

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Community Association start date A meeting to launch a community association for Sparcells & Peatmoor takes place on 26 February, 8pm. Sparcells Social Hall, Sparcells Drive. The association will aim to bring the community together, take up issues on behalf"of residents and develop local activities

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Scouts set millennium target West Swindon's oldest community organisation is launching permanent home by year 2000. Group Scout Leader Chris The 1st Toothill Scouts started in 1978 in the old hut that served as Rawlings said the lack of a permaa shop and community hall in the nent base restricts our developearly days of West Swindon. Num- ment. "Our voluntary leadership bers have grown ever since and caters for 130 boys in the different they now rent rooms in several sections. Our aim is to offer young buildings across the area. people a positive in fl uence in their At present, the Beavers meet at lives which will benefit the comToothill Church, two cub packs at munity. Many boys fromthe area Toothill Farm and the Scouts at the will have been a member of 1st Upper Shaw Farm Centre. The volunteer leaders hold planning meetings at Freshbrook Community Centre.

an ambitious project to find Toothill at some point." He said that the Scouts had discussed the possibility of siting a hut at Toothill Farm with the late councillor Ricky Midwinter in the mid-1980s, but had not pursued the matter. "We really would like to set up our building by the tu rn of the century; it would allow us to offer young people so much more."

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THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Poetry on the move heads for record book Swindon's annual May Festival of Literature kicked off in late Novemberwhen thirty children from West Swindon's primary schools joined year 7 students from Greendown in a day of poetrywriting around the area. Working with champion performance poet Marcus Moore, the youngsters visited Lydiard House, the Renault building and the Chinese Experience to gather inspiration forthe beginnings of what they expect to be a very long poem. By the time the Festival is launched on 1 May, the organisers hope the children will have composed 1,998 lines of verse to win a place in the Guiness Book of Records for the longest poem ever composed by school children. Project organiser Greendown English teacher Cristina Bennett said the trip around West Swindon was a mystery tourto find the magic in words. "I want the children to be inspired by their surroundings, to take their ideas home, to involve their parents and brothers and sisters, and to discover new ways

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Children from Brook Field, Westlea, Salt Way, Freshbrook, Toothill, OliverTomkins, Shaw RidgeprimaryschiolsandGreendownCommunity School with poetry project coordinators Cristina Bennett, Richard Jackson, head of Toothill School, and performance poet Marcus Moore

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of expressing themselves." Festival of Literature director Matt Holland added that the children would perform their work at the Festival. "It's a fantastic initiative. Not only is poetry being created out of everyday situations, the children know they will be performing their words in May."

rte-------An action plan to save the town's historic, but now derelict, Mechanics' Institute has been launched and your help is needed. A £3 million Heritage Lottery bid has been submitted; a decision is expected in mid-1998. Before then a big awareness and fundraising push has been launched under the slogan: 'Get the Mechanics.' The organisers are appealing to all of Swindon's people to take a stake in the Mechanics which they want to turn into a cultural and communitycentreforthetown. They need to raise £860,000 from local sources, but all they are asking from you is £1 (or more). You can join in this effort to put life back into an important part of Swindon's history by using the form printed on the right. The 1,600 Founder Members who have paid £1 during the last two years are also being asked to make a further donation. L— — — — — — — — —

151 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

Big names booked The first speakers for the Festival of Literature have been booked including writers Bel Mooney and Germaine Greer, Radio4presenter Libbey Purves and Private Eye satirist Paul Foot who will be speaking at Lydiard House.

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Friday 2 January & Saturday 3 January Family Treasure Island - plenty of swash and buckle. Suit over 6s. Arts Centre, 2.30pm & 7pm. £5.50, family ticket £18 Sunday 4 January & 1 February

Outdoors Management of an ancient woodland - t ry your hand at coppicing and other tasks. Peatmoor Wood, off Swinley Drive, Peatmoor, 10am - 4pm. Bring packed lunch & warm drink, wear sturdy footwear, free Monday 12 January Music The Music Club presents

Jonathan Sedgewick (bass-baritone) and Sarah Harrington (celli st). Arts Centre, 7.45pm Friday 16 January Music Swindon Recital Series Samantha Rutherford and Helen Cole, flute and harp duo. Arts Centre, 8pm. Tickets tel: 644051, £7

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A weekend of talking and playing with Blues author and broadcaster Paul Oliver, band leader ZZ Birmingham, singer Carmen Pirahna and guitar-playing songsters Su ry a and Linda.

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Sunday 18 January Variety Robert Powell (right) and Angharad Rees (above) in Saints and Sinners, afascinating evening of classic dramatic scenes, poetry, readings, songs and music. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £12.50 Monday 19 January Music The Music Club presents The Swindon Music Festival 1997 Winners Concert. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Thursday 22 January Comedy Jongleurs Comedy Club. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Friday 23 January & Saturday 24 January Family Father Christmas. Wyvern, Friday 6pm Saturday 10.30am & 2.30pm. £7.50, £6.50, concs £4.50 Saturday 24 January Music Jazz singer, Tina May. Arts centre, 8pm. £9

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To Saturday 17 January Pantomime Robin Hood and The Babes in The Wood. Wyvern, 2pm & 4pm. £11.50 &10.50, conces-

SAINTS AND SINNERS An evening of classic dramatic scenes, poetry a n d music Saturday 24th January, 8.00pm The best jazz singer in Britain

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13 - 15 February, Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane, Shaw. Fancy a couple of days bound up with Blues music, Blues histo ry, and Blues-loving company? Hear the story of the Blues, illustrated pictorially and musically, as well as that of the Songster Generation, before and beside the Blues. Improve your guitar technique, learn new lyrics, sing or simply listen in. On Saturday night play and sing the Blues, whether or not your man or woman has done you wrong. Bring your instruments, your voice and your best Blues experience. Cost: £75, includes full board and accommodation, day rates available. To book a place phone 771080.

Thursday 12th February, 8.00pm Pop, jazz, gospel and blues

JAQUELINE DANKWORTH & FIELD OF BLUE

Friday 13th February, 7.00pm and Saturday 14th February, 2.00pm Snap Theatre Company presents

THE WORST WITCH by Jill Murphy Also booking: WAZ, JOHNNY VEGAS, JIM TAVARE, AND THE SALLY BARKER GROUP

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January overview

9 Saturday 31 January Music Kenny Ball (below) and his Jazzmen. Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50 Weekend 13 - 15 February Working weekend at Lower Shaw

Farm-seasonal garden work and help with the creation of a pathway. Tel: 771080 for details. Sunday 14 February Children Rock Watch. Take a close look at the soil. Lydiard Park, 10am - 12.30pm. Call 771419 to book. 50p Sunday 25 January Outdoors 8 mile walk round Waylands Smithy, White Horse & Weathercock Hill. Meet Shepherds Rest pub. Book a place on 490150 Tuesday 27 January Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta play Mozart, Schnittke, Haydn. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £1450- £10.50 Wednesday 28 January to Saturday 31 January Drama When We Are Married presented by the Phoenix Players. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4, phone bookings from 12/1/98 on 525616, 3pm - 8pm.

Film Wednesday 7 January, 7.45pm Carla's Song (15) Directed by Ken Loach, this film depicts the growth of a relationship between a Glasgow bus driver and a penniless Nicaraguan refugee. Arts Centre, presented by Swindon Film Society Wednesday 14 January & Thursday 15 January, 7.45pm Nil by Mouth (18) A compelling authentic account of a violent alcoholic and the effect his abuse has on his dysfunctional family - a shocking portrayal of life in the nineties. Arts Centre. £3.50 Sunday 18 January, 7.45pm Mrs Brown (PG) Wyvern, £3.50

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Monday 19 January, 7.45pm LA Confidential (18) Wyvern, £3.50

ENT PTZMENT Musicals now booking Martin Guerre 4 Februa ry , 2.30pm Adult £28, child £26 (Show closes on 28 February)

Tuesday 20 January, 7.45pm Wilde (15) Wyvern, £3.50 Wednesday 21 January, 7.45pm The Eighth Day (PG) A touching story of an estranged father finding a new purpose in life from a chance encounter. Presented by Swindon Film Society at the Arts Centre The Full Monty (15) Wyvern, £3.50

Adult £25, child £23

Thursday 22 January, 7.45pm Shooting Fish (12) Wyvern, £3.50 Friday 23 January,7pm Blade Runner The Director's Cut (15) Essential viewing for sci-fi enthusiasts. Guest speaker Kim Newman will talk about the film. Media Arts presentation in association with the Arts Centre. £4 Monday 26 January, 7.45pm Face Off (18) Wyvern, £3.50 Wednesday 28 January, 7.45pm The Full Monty (15) Wyvern, £3.50

Coming soon: Scissor Happy, Fame

Thursday 29 January, 7.45pm Copland (15) Wyvern, £3.50

Beauty & the Beast 18 March, evening. Adult £35, child £33.

Chicago 6 April, evening Adult £35, child £33.

Saturday Night Fever 2 May & 27 May, matinee

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Friday 30 January, 7.45pm My Best Friends Wedding Wyvern, £3.50

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HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

New head ready for role Diane Pritchard arrives as new headteacher for Greenmeadow School with considerable experience and has been looking forward to starting her new position in January.

Diane Pritchard saying goodbye to children at Westrop School

Last January she started a National Professional Qualification for Headteachers course to build on her work as deputy headteacher at Westrop School, Highworth. She has been acting head teacher since September. Mrs Pritchard, who has been at Westrop since 1987, said Harvest and Christmas preparations and the every day requirements of leading a school last term meant she has been kept very busy. "I have been balancing the excitement of life at Westrop with starting at

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Greenmeadow. I think I've had an excellent preparation over the last 12 months. The course helped me to focus on the job of being a head, and the Westrop governors asked me to take on the role for three months." She added that she had visited Greenmeadow on a number of occasions to liaise with acting head Paul Barnett. "Initially I will be getting to know the staff and the children, and also the parents. Well be working together to enhance what is working well and also to improve aspects of the school that need development."

Hold your partner Western Dance champs Pat Murray and Kay Telling will be instructing a new American style couples dance class at the Haydon Centre from 6 January. Unlike line dancing, the emphasis will be dancing with a partner using moves and routines based on a western theme. The steps use a waltz, polka, swing and cha cha beat. Newcomers are more than welcome to join in.

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Parish Council looks forward to providing a better service The parishioners of Haydon Wick will enjoy better contact with their parish council when brand new offices open on Monday 5 Janua ry. The £125,000 building at Home Ground, next to the Haydon Centre, provides ground floor reception area, offices and large meeting room, with toilets and kitchen, and potential for more rooms on the first floor. The parish covers an area from Kennet Avenue in the east to most of Woodhall Park in the west and takes in much of the North Swindon development. Whilst most local government services are administered by Swindon, the parish council levies a rate to cover costs of local services such as the community ambulance, leisure gardens, some playgrounds and the bowling green. Financial support is given to local groups, like the youth club, Young at Heart club and Age Concern. Council chairman Richard Hailstone said the parish council will be more effective with its own offices. "People will have a focal point for information and assistance on parish matters, for example on seeing planning applications which the Borough Council is required to supply." Council clerk Sue Martin said she will be pleased to put her spare bedroom to another use. "After 13 years as clerk working from home, there is a lot of paperwork to be brought out of cupboards, garages

Moving in: council chairman Richard Hailstone with clerk Sue Martin

and lofts. People in the parish will now be able to contact me at regular times and gain the information they need more easily." Council offices opening hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday loam - 12noon; Wednesday and Thursday 2pm - 4pm. Sue Martin's telephone number will become the parish office number: (01793) 722446. As she is also secretary to the United Reform Church, she will publishing a new number in due course.

NEW YEAR CONCERT Haydon Wick Bowls Club present Swindon Male Voice Choir and Thamesdown Ladies Choir at The Haydon Centre. Saturday 24 January, 7.30pm Tickets £3.50, conc. £3 if purchased in advance from the Haydon Centre

MP makes call back Swindon North MP Michael Wills carried out his election promise to revisit pensioners living at James Wilks House in Brookdene. The MP spent an hour exchanging views about the extra £20 and £50 winter fuel bills supplement for pensioners recently announced by the Chancellor, over tea and mince pies on 15 December. ?,,f;.-I,,,.,! est restdent at James to S m'^t{t, n t O5 years o Id th e old tlt W' i I 1 W i 1s -wi Wilks House, left, and Nell New, 87, and neighbours

ABBEY MEADS

Where should the next new school be built? Swindon Council's education department is looking to residents of the northern development to advise them where further primary school provision should be made and is holding a public meeting on Wednesday 4 February, 7pm, in the Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue. Central government has authorised expenditure of ÂŁ1.5 million on school places for the area and the education committee has two options before it:

Name the north: your views wanted About 1,000 houses are occupied in Swindon's northern development. But what are we to call the area? We asked this question in the August 1996 Link, but nobody responded. Things have changed rapidly and we at The Link would like to put the question again. The first 'urban village' at Abbey Meads has now been joined by other housing areas such as St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake and Red House. Over on the west side of the development, off Moredon Road, 30 houses are occupied at Taw Hill. The Link has called this page Abbey Meads since 1995, but we need to reflect the sense of identity being developed as the whole area grows. In the early days of West Swindon, the area was known as Toothill, until people in Freshbrook and Westlea demanded recognition. For many years the overall term used was the 'western expansion.' The Link can claim responsibility for the area now being known as ' West Swindon.' By continually using this name in the magazine, people took it on as they put their roots down into the growing community. Gradually references in other papers, council documents, maps and road signs followed. As Abbey Meads is within the boundaries of Haydon Wick Parish Council, and St Andrews Ridge is to found within Blunsdon Parish Council, we need to be sensitive to local opinion on promoting community names. The 'northern development area' or the 'Haydon Sector' are hardly names to generate a sense of community spirit. Swindon Council appears to have concluded on a name for the expansion area. Spokesman John Roche said the council now refers it as 'North Swindon.' What do you think? Give us some guidance on the name to appear at the top of this page, and in future stories. Send your suggestions to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 SPQ.

1. to build a brand new school on Elstree Way, where the temporary community centre and police post are located. This would have 210 children, thirty per year between ages four and 11 years. The school would be small and self contained, and closer to home thus reducing the number of car journeys and traffic congestion. The disadvantage would be the limit on common resources such as the library and a fluctuating pupil roll which might mean mixed age group classes. 2. to expand Haydonleigh School, adjacent to Safeways in Haydon Wick, from the current 210 places to 420 places. A greater range of resources will be available and the larger number of chil-

Council can't pay for safety The November Link highlighted the plight of children living at Blunsdon Ridge who attend Warnford School, Highworth.

dren would allow more flexible management of pupil numbers so that children will be with others of the same age. The size of school may be considered a disadvantage, and the location is further away which means more use of cars. The education department will be circulating a consultation form during January which can be returned with views, in addition to finding out more at the public

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EDUCATION DEPARTMENT i' The council blocked a footpath next to the main road to stop travellers invading building land nearly two years ago and twice a day in the dark, Lisa Pickburn and Charlotte Dungay, pictured above with mother Chris Dungay, walk a mile along busy Thames-down Drive to the bus stop on Cricklade Road. After complaints by parents, Swindon Council have checked the route and deemed it unsafe. However they cannot afford to divert the bus to Blunsdon Ridge and have suggested alternatives to the parents. Parent Chris Dungay said she was not happy with the decision. "It's taken months to get an answer to our complaints. We don't understand why it would cost a lot to ensure safety for the girls." Local councillor Doreen Dart is taking up the problem with council departments.

ary school provision. North Swindon

The Council intends to consult with the community on two options for the future provision of primary education in North Swindon. The options are: i.

to expand Haydonleigh School, or

ii.

to build a new school at Elstree Way.

A public:

eeting has been arranged a ,. he Haydon Centre m on 4 Februa ry 1998

at which representatives from the Education Department will be present to answer any questions you may wish to raise.

Further information will be delivered to homes in North Swindon before the meeting, and will be available in local libraries. We look forward to receiving your comments on the proposed options. For more details, please contact Eileen Roberts on Swindon 463126.

WESTLEA

r midsummer magic from Westlea School Over two month's hard work by year six children came to a colourful conclusion on 18 December when a packed audience of parents and friends in the Greendown School drama studio enjoyed William Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream. The thirty-two children in Alison Pass' class worked under stern direction of Greendown teacher Tim Noble to learn their lines and understand the twists and turns of Shakepeare's lyrical romantic comedy to give an excellent perfomance which they obviously enjoyed. "The children did exceptionally well to grasp the complexity of the plot," said Mr Noble. It will stand them in good stead when they study Shakespeare at second• ary school." ^r: Some of the cast in close-

up.

Far left: Sophie Popjoy

Below: rear left to right, Matthew Bonney, Simon Woo/house, Sean Moorcroft, Philip Baker. Front: Sam Perry-Smith, Steven Robinson

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14 The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER Is your kitchen suffering from sagging doors and droopy drawers? We can repair with new hinges and solid base drawers • Replacement door service (60 styles) • New worktops. over 80 textured or smooth styles • Additional cabinets in matching colours • Complete kitchens in rigid or flatpack • Full installation by local craftsmen To view in the comfort of your own home,

Hope for a crime reduced New Year by Swindon North MP Michael Wills rime was one of the issues that most worried people C during the election. On doorstep after doorstep, I heard about how crime seemed to be spiralling out of control. Much of the crime that most directly affects most people - vandalism and theft and violence, is committed by young men. And it was a central part of the Labour Party's manifesto that we would take ur-

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gent steps to tackle this problem. This we are now doing. The Home Secretary has brought forward measures to ensure young offenders are brought more rapidly to book. But punishment and restitution is not enough if we are to rid people of the fear of crime. We must change the climate in which crime can flourish. So the Government has launched a £3.5 billion programme to get mainly young people off welfare and into work. Only if we offer young people the opportunity to get a job and get on in life will we remove the hopelessness that has proved to be such a fertile breeding ground for crime. We also need to recognise that problems can start very early in life. There is lots of evidence to show that if children are given proper support and care early in life they are much less likely to offend as they grow up. Too much crime is the result of young children who have either been excluded from school or played truant. This is one reason why the Government is putting such emphasis

on early years education and why one of the first tasks of the newly formed Social Exclusion Unit is to tackle truancy. A New Year always brings new hopes in with it. I hope that 1998 will be a year when we see the first signs that we are beginning to tackle the blight of crime. People must be able to live their lives free of fear. And the measures this Government has already taken, I believe, gives hope that now this may once again be possible.

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Make a resolution. Visit the library soon. A very Happy New Year to all our customers from the staff at West Swindon library, writes Vicki Moore. If you do not use the library, then perhaps 98 is the year to give it a try! 1. It's free to join the library. We just need to see some proof of address (e.g. a drivers licence or utility bill), then you can borrow from any Swindon library. 2. You can borrow up to 8 items at a time for a maximum of 3 weeks. We will renew books by telephone if you cannot come in. 3. Libraries have so many different types of material - videos, CDs music and spoken word cassettes are all available for hire. We have special large print books for those with visual impairments. 4. Information is available on just about any subject you can think of: local clubs and groups, to large companies. In fact, for anything you think is important we will help

you find the information you need, or put you in touch with someone who can help. 5. Libraries are a place to work or to relax. No-one will say Shhh, so if you need access to the information to make a project or report just right, then look no further. 6. If the item that you want is not available at a Swindon library then you can request it for just 75p, even if we have to search the whole country for the item. 7. You can take a copy for yourself of relevant information using the photocopier. This can save time if you have lots of work to do, or if you do not have time to work in the library. 8. There is a storytime for under 5s every Wednesday between

llam and 11.30am. Just come along and join an informal group.

New Books in Janua ry : Jessica Blair The Seaweed Gatherers

Two sisters try to unravel a past

feud between 2 families. Michael Dobbs The Buddha of Brewer Street. Thomas Goodfellowe is a back bench MP with a tumultuous personal life and an investigators habit which constantly lands him in trouble. Clive Egleton Operation Sovereign. Frank Waldron stumbles into a spectacular gold bullion hijack whilst dodging the FBI and extradition from Hong Kong. Colin Forbes The Sisterhood. Paula Grey witnesses the murder of a key German statesman. Could the veiled woman seen leaving the murder location be a member of the shadowy sisterhood? Pamela Oldfield Lady of the Night. Gussie Malone is a high-class member of the worlds oldest profession, travelling aboard The Mauretania. On the lookout for business, she encounters the only man she ever loved. Mary Jane Staples The Family at war. The story portrays the experiences of wartime London and the homecoming soldiers.

It's time to write A £5 entry fee and some creative time could win you £1,000 in a Swindon short sto ry writing competition. The Burmah Castrol staff char- ceiving £300 and £200 respectively. ity group in conjunction with Read- Each winner will also be presented er's Digest is looking for entries to with a Reader's Digest Universal the 1998 competition which closes Dictionary. The winners and on 31 March. The first prize is guests will be invited to a recep£1,000 with second and third re- tion at Burmah Castrol House to receive their prizes. The stories can be on any theme, Sponsored charity but must be between 1,500 and bridge tournament 1,800 words, and double line space Saturday 24 Janua ry , 10am - typed on single sided A4 paper. 4.30pm at the Civic Offices The judges, local personalities, in aid of the Mayor's chosen charity. writers and the sponsors, will look The charity cup will be awarded for creativity and originality in the to the team scoring the most'WE' entries. So don't wait to the last points on the Chicago system. minute; start composing and send For entry forms contact councillors, in your work early. Phil Rashid or Michael Barnes on 872803 For details and entry form, SAEs or 614511 by 17 January. £5 entry fee, to June Husking, Burmah Castrol bu ffet lunch and tea/coffee included. Staff Charity Group, Short Story The Mayor Cllr Maurice Fanning Competition, Burmah Castrol, Pipwill be taking part. ers Way, Swindon SN3 IRE.

9. Exhibitions are held almost every month. These range from local artists work to Amnesty International, to work by college students. There is always something different to see. 10. Oh, did I mention libraries also have books? Lots of different titles to suit you, whatever your taste. Something light for a bit of relief, something current for those who want to know. Just ask at the library if you want help or advice about any of the

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RECREATION

Organisers appreciated

School awarded for variety

Three volunteers who have organised tennis leagues at the Delta Tennis Centre for the last seven years were presented in December with c ry stal glasses as a thank-you for their time and effort. Delta manager Gail Light said Mary Williams, Peter Stacey and Paul Zukiewicz had provided adult beginners and improvers with the chance to try out their tennis skills within a competitive environment. "I'm sure their commitment to organising the league has raised the standard of tennis at Delta and given our newer players the chance to aim for higher levels of play." She said that the volunteers also organised several fun evenings during the year, money from which helped to sponsor junior events at Delta.

Ridgeway School has been commended for the quality of its sports

Peter Stacey, Mary Williams and Paul Zukiewicz with their gifts at Delta Tennis Centre with new adult league organisers, Dave Smith, second left, and Theresa Allsop, right. Delta Manager Gail Light is second from right

Ridgeway year 8 lunch time basketball players hold up the Sports Council award, from left, George Duddles, Tom Bailey, Stuart Lafferty, Daniel Whitting, Tom Audritt, John Carey, Keith Busby

The English Sports Council has given the school its Sportsmark Award in recognition of excellence in its physical education programme and the organisation of out of hours sports clubs. Ridgeway, which allocates just over eight per cent of the curriculum on PE, is the only Swindon school to receive the award. It just o

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Swimmers have to search out new sites Regular swimmers at the Link Centre pool will have to take a dip at one of Swindon's other pools for nine weeks from 3 Janua ry . After nearly 15 years of use, the pool structure is suffering the effects of corrosion and a £100,000 repair programme is urgently required. Pools at Oasis, the Health Hydro, Dorcan School and Wroughton Sports Centre are available to swimmers.

Basketball moves north Pay as you play basketball coaching is moving from Link Centre to the Haydon Centre from Saturday 10 January. 11.15am - 12.30pm Mini basketball, 7- 11 years £1 each 12.30pm - 2.00pm Mixed coaching, 11 - 13 years£1 2.00pm - 3.00pm Mixed coaching, 13 - 16 years£1 3.30pm - 5.30pm Wheelchair basketball for disabled & able bodied On Sunday evenings, there will be coaching for ladies (6.30pm - 8pm) and men (8pm - 10pm). For more information, call the Haydon Centre on 706666 or Nicki Green at the County Ground Lifestyle Centre on 511033.

Teacher wins national vest

THE

IREPLAC^ CENTRE

missed out on the higher accolade of the Sportsmark Gold Award which requires 10% of curriculum time to be spent on sport. Extra-curricula activities are run in all the sports offered at the school, from aerobics to trampolining and squash, many of which are run by teachers from other departments.

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Greendown School PE teacher Caroline Thomas recently fulfilled every athlete's ambition by representing her country. Cross country runner Caroline, left, represented England in November at an international meeting in Belgium where she came in twenty-fourth. Disappointed with her performance, Caroline is pleased to have been picked for international competition which has given her valuable experience. Her aim is to be picked for England again and to run for the full Great Britain team.

GET FIT, LOOK GREAT IN '98 WITH THE L NK MAGAZINE

AEROBIC CLISSES *1IlI W Hall Freshbr.,l^ ►k' School Worsley Road

Is getting fit, losing weight, or creating a new image for yourself a resolution for the New Year?

Freshbrook he season of total excess is over for another year. How many of you have resolved to shed those T extra pounds, tone up the flab, shape up those sagging muscles and take a brighter outlook? Swindon Council's Link, Oasis Dieting on its own is not going to reduce your weight. In fact, it and Haydon Centres cater for all can cause a weight gain as your ages and requirements. Newly body says 'hey, I'm being starved, launched is a Leisure Passport that so I'd better make good use of helps spread the cost of keeping fit what I'm getting.' You wonder throughout the year. If you want help with weight loss why you're not losing the pounds, you get a bit disheartened, then Slimming World, Cambridge Diet and the Health Management slip back into the old ways. A few weeks later, you're no bet- Clinic are all ready to provide a ter off, just as miserable and look- programme and assist you in ing for another wonder weight achieving your goals. Diamond Aerobics provides loss regime. Healthy eating and exercise should go hand in hand. small, personal classes, ideal for Getting fit can be hard at first; beginnners. Bodies by Design are you could be asking your body to well known in Swindon for their do things it hasn't done since school. wide choice of fitness classes. 1998 may be the year that you However, there are lots of places where you can go for fitness help really want to look good. Nicki Ogle's sugaring hair removal will and also to be pampered. The De Vere Hotel Leisure Club start you off; she can provide a at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park has ex- stress relieving massage as well. To get your hair in good shape, cellent beauty and fitness facilities.

make an appointment at the Good Company or Partners salon. If you're serious about doing something for yourself, start now by calling one of our advertisers. You'll benefit in the long run.

Friday; 7.30p • $.30pm £259 per's6ssinn Small, personalised class Ideal for beginners RSA qualified instructor For more details contact Mandy Jenkins 01793 871493

Ladies and Gents Hairdressing and Barbers London Trained Stylist Free Consultation and Advice Guaranteed Personal Service Free D ri nks • Free Parking

Good Company IIairdressing Salon Freshbrook Village Centre, Swindon

Telephone (01793) 873217

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DE VERE

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for the New Year NEW BEAUTY SALON Three treatment rooms "f

Products by

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For membership enquiries & beauty therapy bookings,

call 01793 - 87 87 85 now! De Vere Hotel Leisure Club, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon SN5 7DW

FEEL GREAT IN 98 MAKE A RESOLUTIO TO GET FIT & STAY FIT WITH US

Established 1989 Swindon's longest serving independent keep fit organisation

WHERE AND WHEN TO FIND A BODIES BY DESIGN CLASS )fi r

MONDAY Carol's Body Blitz Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. 8pm to 9pm Lorna's Lower Body Workout Bradon Forest School, Purton. 6.30pm to 7.30pm

TUESDAY

Lorna Stack

FREE

The Total Body Workout with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7.30pm to 8.30pm

shirts* ►nnuory & aryl

WEDNESDAY Beginners with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7pm to 8pm. Carol's Body Blitz Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 8pm to 9pm Beginners with Lee Li me Kiln Sports Centre, Wootton Bassett. 8.l 5pm to 9pm. Price: £3.20 includes FREE SWIM

FRIDAY The Total Body Workout with Lee Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm

SUNDAY The Complete Sunday Workout with Carol Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm

p1t,

'1%►i'

Sarah Stirland

• All classes £3.50. • Reductions for prepayment with Bodies by Design membership card. • Students, Gold Card & OAPs- half price at Holy Trinity Church and Greendown *(subject to conditions and availability)

Carol Hart

LACK MOTIVATION? POST NATAL? RECOVERING FROM INJURY? OVERWEIGHT? TOO SHY? Get fit in the privacy of your own home with some personal training. A Lee, Carol, Sarah and Lorna will help you achieve your weight loss and fitness goals

GET FIT, LOOK GREAT Let Bodies put yours in shape January and the start of a new year is often a time when many people reflect on their health and fitness. Resolutions to get fit and to lose weight are often made at the end of the festive season and sadly sometimes broken by Easter. One thing you can be sure of is, if you want a good exercise class you need look no further than the team at Bodies By Design Ltd. Operating mainly out of Greendown School in Grange Park, 1998 heralds the start of their eighth year in the business of keeping the people of Swindon fit. Lee Hogan, head of Bodies By Design Ltd is enthusiastic about the New Year. "Like all companies, large and small, you can only be as good as the people who work with you and we have an excellent team. In Carol Hart we have an enthusiastic, well qualified, fitness professional regarded as one of New on the Bodies team, Swindon's best. Lorna Slack with Lee Hogan We have recently recruited Lorna Slack, a 29 year old mother keen to encourage people of all of two. She has been teaching ages and abilities. I would like to dance for 15 years and is a fully think that we are approachable and qualified aerobic instructor. Lorna willing to discuss health and fitwill be taking classes locally, ness matters with everyone . We (watch this space) and personal aim to continue to expand the training in the Cricklade and number of classes that we offer Cirencester areas. Sarah Stirland and add to our ever increasing list concentrates on personal fitness in of personal clients." the Newbury area. For further information on exer"There is always a warm wel- cise classes or personal training come at our classes and we are contact Lee on 01672 541144

IN '98

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP

Cha rtered Physiotherapist Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703 60 High Street, Wootton Bassett

Sin and Slim! Luxurious Chocolate Velvet - the ready to d ri nk Camb ri dge Diet. Tempted? 'Phone your Cambridge Diet Counsellor on 873201

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Indian Head Massage Half leg £8.00 Eyebrows £4.50 to shoulders, face, neck £3.50 3/4 leg £10.00 Top Lip & scalp. A relaxing way to Full Leg £3.50 £12.00 Chin release tension, Neck Bikini Line £5.00 £3.50 anxiety stress and Face POA Arms £6.50 g9 first treatment Eyelash Underarms £4.50 tinting £5.00 Stomach POA Call Nicky (Qualified Back POA

Practitioner) on 855100 to book an appointment

1AKE

YOUR CHILD'S REAM COME TRUE As parents, you want the best for your child, the gift of confidence, discipline and a positive attitude. We are offering a FREE trial program for the first 20 children to book their place, (you won't even have to pay for the call!)

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Book you place on: 07000 216101

Or better still, call us free on: 0800 7830325

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GREAT IN '98 Skip your way to fitness

O ka I

I Liz Szymczak and thirty adults and children took part in a two hour sponsored skip at the Variety Club in Park South on 21 November in aid of Children in Need and raised an amazing £539.60 which will be I presented to Wiltshire Sound. iZ, Swindons Premier I-lair Croup iL Book a place to learn new skills "Skipping is a great cardiovascular fun and challenging workout and tricks such as single rope, partwith a difference" says Liz, who ners, double Dutch, Chinese wheel, X on cuts, perms, colours) teaches adults and children at routines to music and more. The Skippin' Time display team Freshbrook School. on Mondays (W. Swindon only), Tuesdays & Wednesdays with this advertisement Classes for 6 to 14 year old boys are busy practising for next year. Call in for a free consultation and girls are held on Wednesday, If you are organising an event and I 4.15pm - 5.15 and Friday, 4pm - would like them them to appear, 12 Market Street Gainsborough Ave. West Swindon Centre I Swindon I 5pm. An adult class takes place on or wish to join a class, call Liz on Swindon Wootton Bassett 486112. Tel: 870462 Tel: 525471 Tel: 853220 I Thursday, 6pm - 7pm. I

HAIR

20% DISCOUNT

Liz Szymczak, pictured rear third right, with fundraising skippers

OVERWEIGHT Medically supervised weight loss * Highly successful method of weight reduction at well established clinic for 10 years * Weekly consultation with a specialist medical doctor * Individual diet of normal foods (high protein, low fat and carbohydrate) * Medication provided for those patients clinically obese or overweight with medical related problems * Comprehensive maintenance programme once target weight is achieved Clinics also at Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull For more information or an appointment contact:

Health Management Clinic (Swindon) 3 Cricklade Court, Cricklade Street, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 614636

I --------------------1 I

I We serve authentic French bread, croissants, pain au choco[at,

pain au raisan, etc. continenta[

ct (appi New

Classes for 98 at the Haydon Centre! Monday

Circuit training

7.00pm - 8.00pm

Tuesday

Cardio shape

9.45am - 10.45am £1.80 GC 60p

Creche available

patisseries and savouries Open Monday I

£2.80

10.00am - 12noon £2.70 GC £1.20

Turns & bums

6.15pm - 7.00pm

Ladies conditioning Creche available

9.45am - 10.45am £1.80 GC 60p £1.00 GC 60p

Thursday

until 5.30pm

hot choco[at and tea.

Wednesday Wise Owls (45+)

£2.80 £1.00 GC 60p

7.00pm - 8.00pm

Aerodance

Lavazza coffee: cappuclno, to Saturday espresso, cafe au [ai t, cafe noir1 7.00am

eai!

£2.20 Junior £1.65

Hi-low impact aerobics 7.00pm - 8.00pm £2.80

Try our hot or cold filled I baguettes, and we will give) I you a free cup of coffee upon presentation of this advert. Offer closes 31/3/98 I

Cafe Francais

No need to book, just come in and enjoy yourselves and lose those extra Christmas pounds!

lent y ka p pefLn5 f o'i 6o'z ed chitd ti en?

L -----

Te[

_ 793 S36o33

----.^J

Wednesday Football

4.00pm - 6.00pm

£.0

Tuesday & Thursday

11.00am - 12.30pm

£1.75

Creepy Crawlies soft play

Call reception for further details on 01793 706666

I Patisserie, Boulangerie, Cafe a Take Away

4 0 Havelock Street, Swindon

Thames Avenue

N Haydon Wick, Swindon Registered as a charity

Swmuon u ^U

tAle: sale that lasts all yeaz

From January you can purchase a variety of Leisure Passports offering greatly reduced fees on an annual basis across a wide variety of facilities and activities. Start 1998 with a new you. Control your stressful life, improve your health a t and enjoy a more youthful, leaner and energetic appearance! Simply pay a one-off fee for the year or spread your payments easily over 10 months*! p

Use your passport at least twice a week and you will be saving money immediately. Active Lifestyle Centre Pass (individual) From as little as £4.42 * a week

Toning Table Pass (individual) From as little as £3.46 *

a week

N.B. Users must have completed a toning table induction

(joint pass) From as little as £7.88 a week

Unlimited use of the toning tables at Oasis Leisure Centre.

N.B. Users must have completed an A.L.C. induction.

Unlimited use of the A.L.C. gyms at Oasis Leisure Centre, Link Centre, Health Hydro and The Rec.

Turkish Baths Pass (individual) From as little as £4.42 a week Unlimited use of the Turkish Baths at the Health Hydro, *

Cross Training Pass (individual) From as little as £5.57* a week (joint pass) From as little as £1 a week

N.B. Users must have completed an A.L.C. induction.

•

D 0

Wnlimited use of the A.L.C. gyms, fitness classes and swimming at Oasis Leisure Centre LinkCentre, Health Hydro, The Rec, Dorcan Pool and Squash Courts, _Haydon Centre

ft a ni4

^ritr nitro

For furtherinformation contact reception at any of the below sites. 01793 445400 Oasis Leisure Centre Link Centre 01793 445566 Health Hydro 01793 693787 The Rec

01793 762602

Dorcan Pool Haydon Centre Croft Sports Centre

01793 533763 01793 706666 01793 526622

*First month payment of £25 followed by the balance paid over 10 monthly instalments SwlnDon BOROUGH COUf1C1L

b ^^ w

GET FIT, LOOK GREAT IN '98 New Year's resolution for a healthier lifestyle

"It's not too late to make a New Year's resolution to improve your health and lifestyle," says Sandra Morgan of Swindon's Well Woman Centre. The Centre, based in the Health Hydro in Milton Road, Swindon is extending its opening hours. Staff are on hand to provide and help on all t y pes of medical and health related issues. The Centre provides a unique nancy testing. Also if you want to service in Swindon. You can come talk about any problems our fully and see a woman doctor or nurse trained support workers are availwithout an appointment. Health able. All our services are free and comchecks are available including pletely confidential. We also have blood pressure, breast examinaFast tanning canopies - with or without tion, cervical smears and preg- a vast number of leaflets and books facial boosters • Doubles also available Centreadministrator Sandra Morgan about women's health and lifestyle Free installation and local delivery and medical services manager Gillie issues. Visit us at the Well Woman Centre, The Health Hydro, Milton Patterson Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052) Road, Swindon SN1 5JA. Medical sessions: Monday 5.30pm - 7.30pm Wednesday 12.30pm - 2.30pm The Centre is also open every Tickle Your Receptors! Friday, 10am - 1pm. Pauline Whitchelo, Sussex, lost 8lbs in just 4 No appointment is necessary weeks taking this amazing product for her and a free creche is available on Monday: 6.00pm & 8.00pm heart burn. As well as reducing her dress Wednesdays and Fridays. For furSt John's Church, Hayden Wick. size, it solved her digestive problems. Nicole, 613923 ther information please write or Clinical studies prove that Beta Sitosterol, Tuesday: 9.30am Even Swindon telephone on 511064. the magic ingredient with Beta-Lite has other Community Centre, Jennings Street, major benefits, including cholesterol reducRodbourne. Maxine, 612817 tion, relief of prostate enlargement as well Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community as overcoming numerous other health conCentre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny, 613423 Are you going to be in shape for the summer holidays? Wendy Cole's ditions. Tuesday: 6.o0pm Wootton Bassett, Civic Centre, Station Road. Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Club combines sensible diet advice Find out how your Receptors are Tickled! Ann, 882808 and for your FREE Medical Report on Beta with exercise sessions. Thursday: 7.00pm Freshbrook Sitosterol plus reference bibliography by an Her classes are listed below or call Wendy on 01793 877750 for deCommunity Centre, independent nutritional health writer call tails. Worsley Road. Nicole, 613923 6DRI FREEPHONE 0800 0267007 NOW

Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental

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Learn the Korean art of Tt ,

E KWON-DO BEGINNERS ENROLMENT

Route to fitness

Get fit for a cause

Tae Kwon-Do is a good way of gaining confidence, discipline and a positive attitude, all important contributors to making fitness a part of everyday life. In January Sarah Nash is starting a new school for beginners at Haydon Centre and Leigh Childs is offering new classes at Link Centre and in Old Town.

Perhaps you need a target to help you focus on fitness. In March the annual BT sponsored Swimathon takes place at pools across the country in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. Locally the Link Centre will be open on 21 and 22 March for swimmers to splash for cash. Call into the Link for details.

Sunday 18th Jan uary, 6pm The Haydon Centre Thames Avenue Improve fitness, self-defence and confidence Train with top female instructor

Sarah Nash (European Champion `95 & `96) Call Sarah on 0585 303654 for details

WORKOUT AND SLIM DOWN! Combine a sensible low-fat eating plan with Classes in West Swindon, Wootton Bassett, Malmesbury, Cirencester and Caine. New day class in Wootton Bassett. Contact Wendy on 01793 877750 for details • Weigh in and workout • RSA qualified instructors • Dietary help, encouragement and motivation. Membership fee £6.00. Class fee £3.95. Booking advisable.

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/ —swindonlink

Local runners wanted for London marathon Age Concern has been selected as an official charity for the 1998 Flora London Marathon on 26 April and Age Concern Swindon wants to hear from local runners who have secured places themselves and are prepared to raise sponsorship.

They also want to make contact with runners who applied but failed to get a place in the marathon. Age Concern Swindon director Jo Osorio said he is looking for a special person. "We now have one guaranteed place available to a local runner and we are obviously looking for the person who will raise the most sponsorship to support our work with older people. This is an opportunity not to be missed for someone with good sponsorship potential." Runners supporting Age Concern will join the national Rampagers team who will benefit from pre- and post-race support, special team hotel accommodation at affordable rates, vests and T-shirts and prizes for top sponsorship raisers.

For more information, call Age Concern Swindon on 692166.

The Link Magazine • January 1998

Advertising editorial

New letting agency makes

headway in housing market Two months after opening their sixth office, Oxford based property letting and management company Finders Keepers, are establishing a strong reputation for quality service in a crowded market place. The first foray into Wiltshire cel- of an agency of long standing, ebrates 25 years in the letting which is bonded with an insuragency field since company chair- ance scheme operated by the Naman Mary Channer tional Association of Esstarted the business in a tate Agents. Experismall room in her Oxenced and trained staff fordshire home in 1972. should also have an exToday the company has cellent knowledge of over 60 staff involved in housing legislation afletting and management. fecting property rentThere are two specialist ing." The Swindon office is divisions which look afmanaged by Sue Fogden, ter interior design and furnishing and also pictured. "Before Ijoined the company in 1995, I building and maintehad worked for other agencies who nance. Swindon was chosen for the new were more interested in meeting office because a number of Wilt- targets," she says. "I honestly feel shire based international compa- that Finders Keepers are the best. nies requested the same level of Most other companies were only service provided by Finders Keep- interested in on meeting targets, ers from their other offices to be rather than their clients' needs." made available. Fr an k Webster, Finders Keepers are at the West director overseeing the Swindon Swindon Centre. Tel: (01793) office, said he has been impressed 886200. Fax: (01793) 886686. Eby the number of people wanting mail: swindon@finders.co.uk. an experienced specialist letting Full property listings of agent in the town. "Anyone con- available properties can be seen sidering le tt ing or renting a prop- on the Internet at erty should have the reassurance http:/ /www.finders.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • January 1998

Sleep out experience

Infants school get good marks

Youngsters from Bradon Forest School spent a chilly night out in December at Purton Village Hall trying to find out what it is like to be homeless and sleeping rough. Year 10 group coordinator Kate Cousins said members of the school's Youth Action Group had watched a video on homelessness. "We had no idea of what it was really like so we decided to sleep out. We have clothing, we'll have breakfast and we'll go back to a warm house, but the homeless will be out every night. I hope we will understand more in future." Front: Kate Cozens, Anne Dunn.

Education inspectors from Ofsted describe Toothill's Oliver Tomkins Infants School as 'a good school providing a caring and well-ordered environment in which pupils feel happy and confident' in a report published in mid-December. It adds, 'it is a self-important school, committed to target setting and evaluation of its work as a means to raise standards of attainment.' The good behaviour of pupils, their attitude to learning and the management of the curriculum by the staff is also a strength. The report gives credit to the committed and conscien ti ous lead given by the headteacher and her deputy, and the supportive, well informed governing body. Attainment in English, maths and science is as expected or good, but aspects of design and information technology is unsatisfactory. The budget is efficiently and prudently managed and there is good value for money. As a church school, the governors are pleased the report recognises the central aspect of its Christian ethos which results in good spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils.

GARY WILKINSON Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying M.o.T. Repairs and Welding Free Estimates Unit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon

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Insurance work undertaken General maintenance contracts For all your painting, decorating, tiling & earnentr y requirements. contact Keith on

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See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/—swindonlink

Spreading the recycling message

The Link Magazi ne • Janua ry 1998

^1 y,c,

Youngsters across Swindon were asked to design a poster with a recycling theme for the annual environmental competition sponsored by Burmah Castro! and Swindon Council. The winners from the Link distribution area were presented with certificates by the Mayor of Swindon coun. Maurice Fanning on 25 November, from left, Jodie Manners from Haydon Wick, Charles Salmon, Nine Elms, Dawns Wal/, Jodie Cretehley from Grange Park Moredon, Jessie Howard, L1

What a you planning for YOUR family this Sunday?

Matthew's moving art work

Let the cook relax and try something different! Dine out for Sunday lunch at The Chinese Experience. Feast upon 7 sumptuous dishes and a dessert Spring Rolls • Capital Spare Ribs • Spicy Chicken • Beef in Black Bean Sauce • Chicken with Bamboo Shoots & Mushrooms • Egg Fried Rice Singapore Rice Noodles • Toffee Banana

Eleven year old Matthew Fiddler from Freshbrook has a message for car drivers as they sit in traffic jams around the town, and it is spelt out with colourful clarity in his prize winning design. Over 1,800 children across Swin- there will be less exhaust if there don and Wiltshireentered a Paint- are fewer cars; there would be a-Bus competition organised by cleaner air if people went on a bus." Simon Ransom, manager of TravelWise to create an image to encourage car drivers to use a bus. Swindon Stagecoach, said he was The four largest operators in Wilt- pleased with the design on the bus. shire made a vehicle available to "Matthew has used both sides of the bus to make his point. I hope show off the winning entries, Windmill Hill Schoolpupil Mat- people will leave the car on the thew said, "I wanted to show that driveway as a result." Simon Ransom of Stagecoach pictured above with Matthew and his artwork

Only £10'1 per person or £6* per child ' 10% service charge applicable

NOW BOOKING Chinese New Year celebrations: 28 & 29 January Start the year of the tiger with traditional Chinese cabaret including, lion dancers, Chinese musicians, acrobats and much more. Enjoy authentic entertainment after a mouth watering 5 course meal. Make sure this is an experience to remember at only £45 per person. To book your table 'phone Mr Lee or David at the

('hinese (Experience Peatmoor, Mead Way, West Swindon. Tel: 01793 877888 • Fax: 01793 873883 Open 7 days a week: 12noon to 2pm & 6pm to

1 1

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

CL Reclaimed Timber & building materials — We buy and sell: Ply, bricks, timber, hardboard, chipboard and RSJs We also supply: sand & gravel (in bags) f

For more details pop in or tel: 829715

«'

The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

Let Christmas last through recycling Christmas is over for another year and it will soon be time to clear up. But all that good cheer does not have to disappear into the bin. Recycle it and put cash into an environmentally friendly new year. 'Return to sender' is the message from the Post Office which wants the 2 billion Christmas cards sent this year to be collected and recycled. This will reduce landfill and the cash raised from pulped cards will go to the the 12 Community Forests throughout England, including the Great Western Community Forest covering the Swindon area. The equivalent to over 192 million trees is used to produce cards. Paper and board accounts for 27%

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f I ^t

of UK household waste in landfill every year. Cards can be deposited in special bins at the main at Fleming Way and Theatre Square post offices, and also at Toothill and Freshbrook Village Centres, and Lydiard Millicent.

Trash the tree. Here's a way to avoid your tree going into valuable landfill and creating poisonous methane gas. A grand tree shred takes place at Sainsburys Homebase, Greenbridge on 10 and 11 January, and trees will be accepted for shredding at the Barnfield Road civic amenity dump throughout January.

The shreds will be composted and turned into woodchips to be used in Swindon parks to improve soil conditions. Left, ready to recycle trees, Swindon Council's recycling officer Sean Spencer-Wort, right, with Homebasedeputy manager Herrnant Bhakta

Forum for a post-millennium way of life Poverty, inequality, pollution, global warming are the themes of an Agenda 21 Weekend taking place at Lower Shaw Farm from 24 to 26 April. Although Agenda 21 is a global action plan for a better future adopted by world leaders at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, this residential weekend will be mainly devoted to the individual actions and lifestyle changes that will contribute to social justice and safeguarding the natural environment. Guest speakers will talk about farming methods in Britain and in poorer countries and there will be workshops on transport, waste, the arts and personal commitment. For more information, call Lower Shaw Farm on 771080.

PH NEl

1179

520002 ARRIVA/Cowie Ford Fleming Way

Cowie

Roundabout, Swindon SALES OPENING TIMES: Mon to Fri 8.30am till 7 OOpm Sat 8 30am

1,7

6 00pm. Sun 10 00a,, UII 4 00pm

I YOUR LOCAL COWIE FORD DEALER CHANGED ITS NAME TO ARRIVA FORD Car shown for illustration purposes only.

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

—I'.—.

Tax re-directed at good cause A local waste operator is helping an environmental body by not paying tax to the government. Under a provision in land fill the next year. Canal society member Janet legislation Swindon firm Messers Crapper & Sons Ltd. has been able Flanagan said it is surprising how to p y 20% of its annual tax liabil- many people are unaware of the ity tb the North Wilts branch of the existance of the canals in and around Swindon, and the efforts Wilts. and Berks. Canal society. Delighted members of the canal to rejuvenate them for leisure and society received a cheque for over environmental purposes. Walk£23,400 in December. This will ers can see the achievements of the finance further important works group to the north of Moredon to bring the canal back to use. Vol- Road. The branch is always pleased to unteers have dredged over a mile of canal close to Sparcells and hear of people who want to know Woodhall Park in the last three more, or can offer help. Call Henry years. They hope to double this in Smith on 875775 for details

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Tel: Swindon 770600

Tax goes direct to a good cause: canal society members Harry Bromley, left, and Henry Smith, centre, receive a cheque from directors of Crapper and Son, from right, Lawrence, Roger and Howard Crapper and Richard Crapper second left

S n Doc

S The ' ^

BROWN'S Building & Brickwork Ser vices

All maintenance undertaken Trees lopped • Shrubs pruned Turfing Grass cutting Planting • Fencing Shingle Gardens

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Tel: (01793) 52

Home: (01793) 423613 Mobile: (0468) 166585

II 1tNI1`IJ 1 l AM.";2'Wily Take to the outdoors Swindon Council's countryside rangers are appealing for volunteers to work alongside them in a wide variety of environmental and conservation roles at the country parks around the town. Countryside Ranger Mike Newton. "There are a huge range of activities for volunteers to take part in, from manning the visitor centre, to carrying out safety checks on play areas and conducting guided walks and taking part in special events. "There's all manner of practical tasks, from building stiles, repairing fencing, building footpaths, to carrying out surveys of flowers and wild life. There's scope for all ages and interests." Full training will be given, including first aid, and a uniform and identity badge is provided. The ranger service is holding a slide presentation on 7 January at 7.30pm in the Drove Centre, Drove Road, Swindon for potential volunteers to find out more. For more information beforehand, call Mike Newton on 771419.

Farm may close Popular family attraction Roves Farm Visitor Centre, near Highworth, is under threat and may close to all but pre-arranged group visits because of planning restrictions from the end of April. If you have visited the farm and want to find out more about the problems facing farmers Rupert and Joanna Burr on 763939.

Plant a tree The Seven Fields Conservation Group have 300 trees to plant and are asking for volunteers to help them on 7 February to create a new wing of Penhill Copse, facing Abbey Meads. Access to the site is off Cagney Road (Maunders site) in Abbey Meads. There is little parking so please walk says group coordinafor Marilyn Beale who can be contacted on 725067 for details. "We would like to welcome more Abbey Meads residents to join us," said Marilyn. "Bring a spade, and wear gloves and boots." If the ground is frozen on 7 February, an alternative date of 28 February is planned.

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The Link Maqazine • Janua ry 1998

Make fire safety a priority in 98 Be prepared, should you be unlucky enough to have a fire in your home, writes Sub-officer Martin Lloyd from Westlea Fire Station It only takes an unguarded or care- 1 If you can safely do so, close you do if your route was cut off by the room becomes smokey drop to less moment for a fire to start. Re- the door of the room where the fire a fire downstairs? Look for alter- floor level where it will be easier to breathe. Try to attract attention by membering these points could has started and close all other doors native routes before the event. behind you, this will delay the 5 Call the Fire Brigade from a shouting from the window and if make all the difference. safe place: a neighbour's house or you are in immediate danger drop spread of fire and smoke. cushions or bedding to break your 2 If you think there is a fire be- a call box. hind a door check whether it is 6 Never go back into the house fall. When climbing from the winwarm with the back of your hand. until told that it is safe to do so. dow get out feet first and lower 3 Get everybody out as quickly In the worst case, should you yourself to the full length of your as possible. Don't pick up valu- become cut off by fire, always close arms before dropping. able or possessions, try not to panic the door nearest the fire and use These are just a few simple proQuality homes to let in order to avoid making mistakes. sheets or towels to block any gaps cedures to follow which will make 4 Always plan your escape route to stop the smoke spreading into a difference and make your house are urgently required in before the fire starts. What would the room. Go to the window and if safer should a fire break out. the West Swindon area.

CONSIDERING LETTING YOUR PROPERTY?

The relocation of a number of national and overseas companies to the town has created a huge demand for homes for both company and individual letting needs.

The one resolution you must make

If there is one resolution to be made early in 1998, it is to draw up a will. The tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales without a will, highlights the difficulties that can arise from not having your affairs sorted out whilst you are still alive. More than 7 out of 10 people in they avoid making a will because simple, it is advisable to pay a so"We have an Britain do not have a will, accord- it is difficult to face the idea of licitor to draw up a will. It costs urgent need ing to the Law Society. Perhaps death, or they think they are sign- from £25 for a straightforward will. for up to 20 ing some kind of death warrant. Complex finances or large estates prope rt ies t Yet without a will, an individual will be more expensive. has no control over the disposal of Age Concern have produced a in the West assets. Verbal promises made to free information guide to wills and Swindon area" friends and family count for noth- also have a will writing service. SOLICITORS & NOTARY PUBLIC says Sue ing without the legal backing Call 0181-679-8000 or write to Gidney, Manager at Leading Ken Madine, Age Making your will? of one. Agencies in Swindon. If someone Concern Wills, Contact us for friendly efficient If you have a prope rt y you are dies without a Freepost, Lonadvice about our considering letting, and are looking will, their asdon SW16 4BR. DT ORDER Wills and Probate services. I t YQ1Jjt F^ Wills should for a highly professional but cording to the j r , be reviewed personal service from your FREE Wills Service laws of intesfrom time to Managing Agent, please for over 60's, tacy which set , time to ensure contact Leading Agencies on out a frameyour wishes Ask for details of this service at: work of who are up to date, ___ _ 87 Commercial Road, gets how much. for example on They will be more than happy to give Family membirth or death Swindon free and impartial advice on all bers have priorof a child, buying a house or on Tel: 01793 641707 aspects of residential letting. ity, but if no relatives can be traced, receipt of a big windfall. the government gets the entire esThey should also be looked at if tate. personal circumstances change. It can become very messy if rela- For example, existing will are autives have to sort out the estate tomatically invalid on marriage, S Professionally drawn by according to intestacy, placing un- but this does not apply on divorce. WI pressure on them at an Your passing is inevitable. When (01793) 642245 necessary already stressful time. it happens is unpredicatable. Far From £25.00 inc. Wills can be created with DIY from signing away your life, a will A professionally prepared will can avoid kits available through stationers, is a way of showing your loved Home visit service delay and distress for your family but unless one's affairs are very ones you were in control of events. from £35.00 inc.

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NORTH SWINDON _

Your complete Link Magazine guide to Swindon College Adult Education Courses in West and North Swindon from January 1998

Comprehensive high quality education and training across West and North Swindon Below and overleaf are details of Swindon College courses starting in January. Enrolments are now taking place in several different ways:

For further information, call the free courses information hotline on Freephone 0800 7312250.

By telephone (Credit card line): call Swindon (01 793) 498286 between 9.00am and 4.00pm In person: call in at our Greendown office Monday to Thursday, 1.30pm - 4.30pm, or our Customer Services at our Regent Circus or North Star Avenue sites. Be quick: All courses are filled on a "first come-first served" basis. It is advisable to enrol in good time. It is possible to enrol on the day but a place cannot be guaranteed since courses are often full or, if poorly supported, may have to be cancelled or re-scheduled.

One of our Adult Community Education offices is located at Greendown Community School, Grange Park.

Payment May be made by cash, cheque, Access or Visa

It is staffed by Area Adult Education Organiser Enid Anderson and her Administrative Assistant.

Cash is only acceptable when made in person + Cheques should be made out to "Swindon College" and should be accompanied by a completed enrolment form. - When using Access or Visa, please be sure that the name and address given is exactly that known to the credit card company. Any discrepancy will invalidate your enrolment. Make sure that you fill in the expiry date. Full refunds will only be paid on a course which is cancelled. Other refunds are at the discretion of the College.

They can be visited Monday to Thursday between 1 .30pm and 4.30pm or co n t a c ted o n 8 7141 3.

All courses take place at Greendown Community School, unless otherwise stated Title

Day Time

Length Start

Cost

Code

Title

Day Time

Cost

Code

7.00-9.00

19 Jan

£35.00

ABB05N

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AGG51N

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£35.00

AEV61N

7.00 - 9.00

22 Apr

£35.00

AGG52N

7.00-9.00

23 Apr

£17.50

AEV62N

Calligraphy

Wed

7.00- 9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AGG80N

Painting in Watercolour - Improvers Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

Mixed Crafts Headlands School Stratton

Wed

7.00 9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AEH52N

Photography - Black & White

Rubber A rt Stamps

Sat

10.00 -4.00

28 Feb

£15.00

AGS27N

Photography - Beginners Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Salt Dough Decorations for Easter

Sat

10.00 - 4.00

7 Mar

£25.00

AGS29N

Photography. Landscape

Wed Thu

ART, DESIGN & CRAFTS

Length Start

Dressmaking Skills

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AGG12N

Dressmaking: Learn to Create your own Pa ttern Blocks

Photography. Landscape Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Sat

10.00 -4.00

21 Mar

£25.00

AGS16N

Ribboncraft - Beginners

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Mar

£15.00

AGS62N

Embroide ry : an introduction to Goldwork Sat

10.00 - 4.00

28 Mar

£15.00

AGS82N

Silverwork & Jewellery

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AGG98N

Flower Arranging - Beginners Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

Mon

7.00 - 9.00

9 Mar

£36.00

AEK10N

Silversmithing Headlands School Stratton

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£39.00

AEH84N

Fresh & Dried Flower Arrangements Headlands School Stratton

Wed

7. 00-9.00 9.00

25 Feb

£25.00

AEH73N

Soft Furnishings Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Mon

9.30 - 11.30

19 Jan

£35.00

AEVO4N

Designing & Making Hat Boxes

Sat

10.00-4.00

28 Mar

£15.00

AGSO4N

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

AEV02N

Decorative Paint Techniques

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

AGS51 N

Soft Furnishings Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

ABV13N

10.00-4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

AGS81N

£35.00

Sat

12 Jan

Tassels & Braids for Soft Furnishings

9.30 - 11.30

Trimmings & Bows for Soft Furnishing

Sat

10.00-4.00

28 Feb

£15.00

AGS21N

Swags & Tails for Soft Furnishing

Sat

10.00-4.00

14 Mar

£25.00

AGS24N

Interior Design: setting up a master plan Mon

10.00- 12.00 10

19 Jan

£35.00

AGP14N

Painting & Drawing Pu rton Village Hall

Mon

Painting & Drawing Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

Mon

7.00 - 9.00

12 Jan

£35.00

AEK31 N

Upholstery & Soft Furnishings Bushton Village Hall Bushton

Tue

9. 30-11.30 11.30

13 Jan

£35.00

ABV11 N

Painting & Drawing

Tue

7.00-9.00

20 Jan

£35.00

AGG32N

Upholste ry & Soft Furnishings

Tue

7.00 - 9.00

20 Jan

£35.00

AGG21 N

Tue

7.00-9.00

20 Jan

£35.00

AEK41N

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£35.00

AGT02N

Painting & Drawing Bradon Forest School Pu rton

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£35.00

AGP11 N

Upholstery & Soft Furnishings Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

Painting in Watercolour Cross Keys Wootton Bassett

Mon

9.30- 11.30

12 Jan

£35.00

ABX02N

Stained Glass - Lead and Foil Toothill Community Centre

Swindon College courses from January 1998

All courses take place at Greendown Community School, Grange Park unless stated otherwise Tide

Length Start

Day Time

Cost

Code

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS & COUNSELLING Assertiveness for Women

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

PGS39N

Freedom from Failure

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Mar

£15.00

PGS67N

The Power of the Mind

Tue

7.00- 9.00

20 Jan

£35.00

PGG11 N

Managing Depression

Wed

7.00 - 9.00

25 Feb

£21.00

PGG66N

COMPUTING, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & SECRETARIAL SKILLS 12 Jan Computing for Absolute Beginners RSA Mon 7.00 - 9.00 5 Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

£10.00

CBB03S

Title

Day Time

Length Start

Cost

Code

Thu Fitness: Tone & Shape Up Oliver Tompkins Infant School Freshbrook

7. 00-8.00 8.00

8 Jan

£21.00

KGV21N

Ladies Keep Fit Haydon Wick Primary School

Mon

7.30 - 9.00

5 Jan

£31.50

KEV45N

Understanding Horses -2

Tue

7. 00-9.00 9.00

20 Jan

£35.00

KGG02N

LANGUAGES Chinese Characters for Fun

Sat

10.00 - 4.00

7 Mar

£15.00

LGS02N

Chinese 1

Mon

7.00 - 9.00

12 Jan

£40.00

LGG04S

Italian 1 Headlands School Stratton

Wed

700-9.00

14 Jan

£40.00

LEH41S

Computing for Absolute Beginners RSA Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00- 9.00

23 Feb

£10.00

CBB04S

Computing for Absolute Beginners RSA Thu Computing for Absolute Beginners RSA Sat

7.00-9.00 10.00-4.00

5 2

22 Jan 31 Jan

£10.00 £10.00

CGG25S CGS03S

CHILDREN & NURSERY EDUCATION

Computing for Absolute Beginners RSA Sat

10.00 - 12.00 5

28 Feb

£10.00

CGSO4S

Child Psychology & Development

Wed

7.00-9.00

25 Feb

£21.00

UGG11N

£34.00

CBB63S

Music with Mum or Dad Wootton Bassett Methodist Hall

Mon

9.15- 10.00

12 Jan

£13.20

NBV03N

Music with Mum or Dad Wootton Bassett Methodist Hall

Mon

10.15 - 11.00 10

12 Jan

£13.20

NBVO4N

Music with Mum or Dad Wootton Bassett Methodist Hall

Thu

10.15 - 11.00 10

15 Jan

£13.20

NBVION

Music with Mum or Dad Wootton Bassett Methodist Hall

Thu

9.15- 10.00

15 Jan

£13.20

NBV15N

2 11 & 12 Feb £30.00

PBV05S

RSA CLAIT 1 Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00-9.00

RSA CLAIT 1

Mon

7.00-900

23 Feb

£34.00

CGG21S

RSA CLAIT 1 Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

Tue

7.00-9.00 9.00

24 Feb

£34.00

CEK22S

RSA CLAIT 1

Wed

7.00-9.00

25 Feb

£34.00

CGG22S

RSA CLAIT 1

Thu

7.00-9.00

5 Mar

£34.00

CGG23S

3 Feb

£60.00

CBB61 S

RSA CLAIT 2 Tue Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

Folk Guitar - Improvers Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School Music Theory Grade 3 Tue Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

6.30 9.30

12 Jan

HEALTH, THERAPIES & BEAUTY

7.00 - 9.00

7. 00-8.00 8.00

19 Jan 20 Jan

£39.00 £17.50

DBB04N DBB09N

FOOD: SUGAR SKILLS, COOKERY & FOOD PREPARATION Cake Decoration & Flower Modelling Tue Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00-9.00

13 Jan

£35.00

FBB41N

Creative Cookery Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7,00-9.00

19 Jan

£36.00

FBB52N

First Aid: Care of Children Wootton Bassett Civic Centre

Wed & Thu 9.30 - 3.00

First Aid: Care of Children

Wed

7. 00-9.00 9.00

25 Feb

£30.00

PGG15S

First Aid: Care of Children Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Thur

7.00-9.00

26 Feb

£30.00

PEV12S

Alexander Technique

Mon

7.00-9.00

19 Jan

£35.00

PGG32N

Aromatherapy - an introduction

Sat

10.00-4.00

21 Mar

£15.00

PGS10N

Aromatherapy Tue Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00-9.00

20 Jan

£28.00

PBB11 N

Aromatherapy Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Wed

9.30-11.30

14 Jan

£35.00

PEV51 N

Garnishes & Presentation - an intro

Mon

7.00-9.00

19 Jan

£36.00

FGG02N

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

PEH1 ON

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£36.00

FGG10N

Aromatherapy Headlands School Stratton

Wed

Chinese Cookery Chinese Cookery

Sat

10. 00- 4.00

14 Mar

£15.00

FGS12N

Aromatherapy

Thu

7.00-9.00

26 Feb

£21.00

PGG51 N

French Country CookingLanguedoc Region

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

FGS34N

Healing - A Radical Approach to Health Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

PGS18N

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£28.00

PEH31 N

Indian Cookery

Tue

7.00-9.00

20 Jan

£36.00

FGG42N

Healing & Self Healing Headlands School Stratton

22 Jan

£28.00

PEV49N

Mild Aromatic Curries

Sat

10.00-4.00

21 Mar

£15.00

FGS31N

9.30 -11.30

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Mar

£15.00

FGS51N

Healing & Self Healing Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Thu

Japanese Sushi & Sashimi Cook Tex-Mex!

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£36.00

FGG05N

Healing & Self- Healing

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£35.00

PGG18N

Reflexology Mon Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00-9.00

19 Jan

£28.00

PBB32N

GV815S

Reflexology

Thu

7.00-9.00

22 Jan

£35.00

PGG54N

Tue

7.00-9.00

13 Jan

£35.00

PEK10N

10.00- 4.00

31 Jan

£15.00

PBX03N

FOUNDATION SKILLS & GCSE Basic English Workshop Headlands School Stratton

Tue

Read and Write Together Toothill Primary School

Mon

1. 00-3.00 3.00

5 Jan

Free

GV732S

Sports Injuries Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

Thu

1. 00-3.00 3.00

8 Jan

Free

GV734S

Beauty Workshop Cross Keys Wootton Bassett

Sat

Read and Write Together Oliver Tomkins Infants, Freshbrook

Know Your Basic Colours

Sat

ESOL - Beginners English Family Centre West Swindon

Fri

9.30 - 11.30

9 Jan

Free

GV847S

ESOL - Intermediate English Family Centre West Swindon

Wed

9.30- 11.30

7 Jan

Free

GV81 1 S

Accelerated GCSE English

Tue & Thu 7.00- 9.00 15

13 Jan

£30

GGA11 S

Accelerated GCSE Maths

Mon & Wed 7.00- 9.00 15

13 Jan

£30

GGA1 1 S

7.00-9.00

6Jan

Free

GENERAL INTEREST

10.00-4.00

28 Feb

£15.00

PGS51N

Make up & Manicure Tue Wootton Bassett Comprehensive School

7.00-9.00

13 Jan

£17.50

PBB67N

Manicure & Pedicure

Sat

10.00- 4.00

7 Feb

£15.00

PGS23N

Massage & Waxing

Sat

10.00-4.00

28 Mar

£15.00

PGSO4N

T'ai Chi - Beginners & Improvers Westlea School West Swindon

Thu

7.00-8.30 8.30

8 Jan

£31.50

YGV02N

T'AI CHI & YOGA

Working in France

Sat

10.00- 4.00

14 Mar

£15.00

UGS29N

1.30- 3.00

5 Jan

£26.25

YBV12N

Tue

7.00-9.00

24 Feb

£10.50

UEK02N

Yoga: Hatha - Beginners Wootton Bassett Civic Centre

Mon

Planning a Labour Free Garden Kingsdown School Upper Stratton

9.45 - 11.15

6 Jan

£31.50

YGV30N

Mon

7.00-9.00

23 Feb

£21.00

UGG26N

Yoga: Hatha - Beginners & Improvers Lydiard Millicent Village Hall

Tue

Garden Design, Planning & Planting

Yoga: Hatha - Beginners & Improvers St Ban's School Wootton Bassett

Wed

7.30-9.00

7 Jan

£31.50

YBV18N

Yoga: Hatha - Beginners & Improvers Purton Village Hall

Wed

9.00- 10.30

7 Jan

£31.50

YGP33N

Yoga: Hatha - Beginners & Improvers Purton Village Hall

Wed

10.45-12.15 12

7 Jan

£31.50

YGP36N

Yoga lyenga - Beginners & Improvers Purton Infants School

Tue

7:30 - 9. 00

6 Jan

£31.50

YGP27N

DIY Car Care

Wed

7.00-9.00

21 Jan

£35.00

VGG11 N

Child Psychology & Development

Wed

7.00-9.00

25 Feb

£21.00

UGG11 N

Introduction to Psychology

Sat

10,00-4.00

28 Feb

£15.00

UGS15N

Criminal Psychology - an introduction

Mon

7.00-9.00

23 Feb

£21.00

UGG13N

Psychology. Human Social Behaviour

Sat

10.00-4.00

7 Mar

£15.00

UGS26N

Wed

7.00 - 8.00

7 Jan

£21.00

KEH24N

KEEP FIT & SPORT Fitness: Tone & Shape Up Headlands School Stratton

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Expanding horizons for children with learning disabilities After all the other recent seasonal appeals from good causes, here's an opportunity to make a difference all year round, writes Phil Clarke of The Children's Society Children and young people with Volunteers can either work dilearning disabilities rarely have rectly with children and young access to the same social opportu- people to enable them to take part nities as other children. Their par- in local leisure activities, or can ents, who often get little time to work with the Project's informathemselves, need access to a wide tion service to help produce newsrange of information - about their letters and fact sheets to keep parchild's disability, about organisa- ents and carers informed. Time tions which can help their child, commitment can be as much or as about support for themselves - and little as you can offer, and training often don't know where to start is given. If you would like to find out looking. The Children's Society Family more about the Family Support Support Project in Swindon is look- Project's work and how you might ing for people interested in help- be able to help, please contact me on 01793 725666. ing to meet these needs.

Pyjama day pays for party Children at the Link and Learn Pre-school thought they were going to sleep at a sponsored pyjama wearing day in early December. Instead they enjoyed the usual activities which raised money for a Christmas party. The group are planning a summer trip with the extra cash raised to make up for the outing they missed last year for lack of funds. The pre-school, which meets on nine sessions a week in the Link Centre, has places for two to 5 year olds. To find out more, contact Sara Smale on 872360. Pyjama posers: Carmilla BoothWilliams, Liam Short, Kieran Wickens

Seen a photo you want?

e provide a home visiting service for your at or dog, while you are away or at work. 11^,Tel:

01793 - 821040 or 882945

GOING

ON HOLIDAY? We have heated accommodation available for your dog, cat, budgie and all small animals Long standing caring staff will ensure a happy stay for your pet.

Viewing welcome by appointment • Brochure on request Charney Kennels, Stanford Road, Faringdon, Oxon Tel: 01367 241063 (collection service available)

A NAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

Pictures in The Link are taken in colour, even if they appear f ` in black and white. Copies are available at £1.50 for 6" x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." Send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ.

Specify the month and page the photo appears on, with brief description, and don't forget your name, address and telephone number.

Business sta rt ups • Book-keeping Annual accounts • Self assessment tax Short & long term assistance and projects

AL GRA

Accountancy Services

Free initial meeting TeVfax: 01793 871790 Mobile: 0468 068 770

THE MAN WITH A VAN

PHILIP STONE

Removals and storage who gives the best price and service he can! Full house removals or single items

PAINTER & DECORATOR

•

For a high standard of work References available Telephone now for a FREE ESTIMATE Tel: 870515 or bile 0374 - 20852

CROSSWAYS PET & GARDEN For all your pet & garden needs Stockists of:

T AMS, Eukanuba,

Pet Care Swindon & District

Hills Science Plan, Proplan Available now Baby rabbits, guinea pigs,

hamsters, budgies Open 7 days a week • Free local delvery 537 Cricklade Road, Swindon (near the Moonrakers) Tel: 01793 700170

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PETS AT Hoi m Worri ed who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only. Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

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

77 High Street, Purton Tel: 771869 Office hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am - 7.00pm Sat 8.30am - 1.00pm PHONE FOR CONSULTING HOURS All consultations by appointmel OTHER TIMES AND VISITS BY ARRANGEMENT

Bath Road, Cricklade Tel: 751698 Consulting hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 9.00am -10.00am; 5.00pm - 7.00pm Tues, Thurs 9.00am - 10.00am Sat 3.00pm - 4.00pm All consultations by appointment 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: TELEPHONE 771869

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

Ahead with Hreod Parkway School

The Autumn term at Hreod Parkway School for new headteacher Andrew Fleet was a time of reorientation, challenge and change - for him and for the school. Here he reflects on his first term of leadership. Due to its location and popularInterior & exterior ity as the northern sector develops, Hreod is growing and is despainting and tined to become one of the largest decorating secondary schools in Swindon. Our aim is very much about Ceramic tiling building the confidence and motiFree estimates vation of all our pupils so that they take pride in their work and their Tel: 01793 own abilities to succeed. We are also about partnership with the 701394 community, business, industry, or 724836 further and higher education in the endeavour to help pupils develop their skills and aspirations. The recent Education White PaWe are lucky tobe working with per indicates that 'standards rise Dr David Hemery, the Olympic faster where schools themselves gold medalist, who has taken us take responsibility for their own on as a pilot school to apply'coachimprovement.' SECURITY ing skills' to the unlocking of poThis is undoubtedly the case and tential in teachers and pupils. SYSTEMS I have dedicated time to working David has worked with staff and with teachers to ensure that our with parents on questioning techINSTALLATION & Action Plan for the school has clear niques to promote thinking skills MAINTENANCE OF and deliverable targets which will in young people. This is geared to benefit the whole community. enhancing performance and to INTRUDER-FIRE These include providing pupils ensure the pupils are fit, worldALARM SYSTEMS and their parents, with much more class citizens of the 21st Century. detailed information and monitor74 Victoria Road, Swindon Any new headteacher, in writing on their term by term progress, ing for the press, will refer to plans Tel: (01793) 642792 adult mentors for pupils and after for developing school facilities school study facilities which sup- because these are tangible and grab NACOSS Approved Installer Intruder Alarms port pupils in their learning. the headlines. We are not lacking in schemes and we are looking at reorganisFor all your kitchen requirements, ing the use of our two sites to prosupply only or frilly fitted, call: IlIIJ vide better specialist facilities. We have our own halls and cafeteria, swimming pool and multi-gym, All your needs in one number - including bathroom fitting, tiling, two gymnasia and science and plumbing, electrics, painting, decorating and much more technology wings. We have our ^ ^ Tel: (01793) 692340 • Mobile: (0378) 207977 own web-site on the internet and are extending information technology. We are submitting a lottery NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER bid and grant applications to deCONTACT: velop our excellent sporting facilities for use by the school and the local community. But Hreod is much more than Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water 24 hours ` \, buildings and equipment. It's a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled. \ /, about music and art, international (LAO Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered. exchange, out of school activities 260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172 and self discovery. As I dash around our 40 acre ???????????????????????????????????? site, taking assembly, visiting lessons, dictating memos, tackling C problems, planning, meeting parC1. J ents and seeing pupils, I am aware "I Burglar alarms, wired 24 hour monitoring of the most important ingredient & wire free Fire alarms .; for our success - the human interaction between dedicated teachers C" • Security cameras Access control .^ and support staff and the pupils. This encapsulates creativity, J c`' I I challenge, curiosity and, in the best P J circumstances, a real ownership of -- III I II

PECORATORS

Happy Birthday The Property Shop What a difference a year makes. Twelve months ago a new estate agency se rv ing North and West Swindon was opened by Barrie Brocks and Jason Parker and they first advertised it in The Link.

A year on and The Property Shop is one of the leading estate agents in its target area. According to Barrie the success of The Property Shop is down to hard work, experience and customer service. "Jason and I have 24 years' experience of selling houses in Swindon. This coupled 7 days a week opening and a high level of service we offer our customers has helped make us one of the best selling agencies in Swindon. "To cope, we brought in an extra negotiator/secretary, Margaret Prosser, who has over 10 years' experience in estate agency work." To celebrate their first birthday and the success of 1997, Jason and Barrie have decided to extend their offer to sell your home for only 1 %, subject to terms and conditions. Successful team: Jason Parker, Margaret Prosser & Barry Brock

A 2 Z Home Improvements

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Jason explains. "1997 was a brilliant year for us with many more sales agreed than we ever imagined. We want to carry on in 1998 as we left off in 1997 so decided to extend our 1% offer." So, if you are thinking of selling in 1998 and want a value for money service with the personal touch, then why not contact Jason and Barrie to arrange a free, without obligation valuation and find out more about the full range of services they offer. The Property Shop can be found learning. in the heart of Commercial Road I am committed to working with and is open 7 days a week, until the pupils and staff of Hreod 7pm on week days. Parkway to ensure that we all Alternatively give Jason, Barrie achieve better than our personal or Margaret a call on 487777 to best, to make success a reality and arrange a suitable appointment. source of pride for them. After all, why pay more for less?

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ason Parker

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34 The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

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Ukraine orphans say `thank you' for shoeboxes Shoeboxes filled with essential items and surprise gifts collected by two West Swindon primary schools for the charity Hope Now have been distributed to orphans and street children in the Ukraine in time for the Eastern Orthodox Christmas on 6 January.

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Vic Jakopson of Hope Now with children at the House of I, ,tics in ;:c),kassy who have just been given a shoebox and a new pair of gloves to ward off the cold

The November Link carried pho- reports that some boxes collected tographs of children at Westlea across Britain were distributed in School and Windmill Hill School, mid-December, but the majority Freshbrook, with their shoeboxes were given to children in the orand last month a photo' showed phanages supported by the charboxes being sent to the Hope Now ity towards the end of the month. warehouse with the help of Swin- He said the children were dedon courier firm Swift. lighted with the gifts sent from Hope Now director VicJakopson afar.

Skaters spread message, thanks to local printers The Link has also been publicising Hope Now's sister charity Dentaid

since May last year. One of Dentaid's projects aims to relieve the plight of children in the Ukraine born with a cleft palate or cleft lip by organising medical relief through surgery in the UK and by training surgeons from the Ukraine so that children don't have to be shut away in orphanages. After reading about Dentaid, British junior champion skaters based at the Link Centre, Andrew Seabrook and Marsha Polouschenko, who comes fromtheUkraine, offered help with publicising its work. In December Envision from the Westmead Estate presented the skaters with a full colour leaflet, printed on their E-Print 1000 instant offset printer. It features a picture of Marsha and Andrew and two babies from the Ukraine who received surgery last June and explains Dentaid's work. Andrew and Marsha and Cliff Dyer of Envision holding up the colour leaflet which will be given to fans at skating events around Europe.

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

Schools study BBC CD from Wiltshire company Mousepower, a multi-media company based in Chippenham, has been responsible for producing a CD Rom -'Sound On, Vision On' - to mark the 75th anniversa ry of the BBC. By now all schools, further education colleges, universities, major libraries and MPs in Britain should have received a copy. The CD, which packs in a huge amount of audio, visual and text information selected from the BBC's vast archives, recently won the International Reference category against 1,500 other entries at Mousepower MD (known as headntouse to colleagues) John Rowland holding a multi-media developers confer- the BBC anniversary CD at the swindonlink internet site launch in October ence in San Francisco. 'Sound On, Vision On' forms part of the new 'BBC Experience' interactive exhibition at Broadcasting House in London.

Advice for the family computer owner You bought the computer as a family Christmas gift, and the kids have worked through the software packaged with it. Unfortunately they now spend most of the time playing games; the educational intent in your purchase plan is rapidly fading. The problem is knowing what is good software, and what is a waste of money. On the other hand you may have delayed buying until the sales. PIN, Parents Information Network, has been set up just for you. It's the only national independent organisation specifically dedicated to helping families get to grips with new technology - buying, using and learning with computers. PIN produces a helpful newsletter and several guides to help techno challenged adults through the purchase maze. They also offer discounts on good software which sport the PIN Quality Mark. To receive a copy of the newsletter, send a 38p SAE to PIN, PO Box 16394, London SE1 3ZP or see www.pin-parents.com

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The Link Magazine • January 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co .ukt--swindonlink

Formula 1 puts up big smokescreen

Tobacco company logos are removed from Formula 1 cars for races in Britain, but they still keep the recognisable colours associated competition with tobacco sponsorship. Alwith more cars though tobacco manufacturers say in contention. their backing does not influence "The threat to people, recent research suggests move Formula 1 young followers of motor racing out of Europe are most likely to take up smokand show it on ing. For Greg, there is no smoke withTV is hollow. Interest in the out fire. "The cigarette companies sport would would not be putting in so much drop away. The money if they did not believe they risk to jobs is unfounded as well; I would gain an advantage from don't think the UK designers and sales. They are not charities by any stretch of the imagination." engineers would leave."

A Link reading former Formula 1 racing engineer reckons the Gove rn ment has made a big mistake in t ry ing to let the sport continue to receive tobacco sponsorship. wrong to support Greg Wilson, from Williams Formula 1. The Street, Swindon, pictured right, an sport is very techengineer with Ensign, ATS and nology driven with RAM during the 1980s, believes the top five teams vast there are few connections between spending Formula 1 and road cars nowa- amounts of money. days, and that the sport's bosses There is little benare bluffing when they threaten to efit to ordinary mopull out of Europe. tor cars. A Labour voter last May, he is "There should be disappointed by their performance a ban on tobacco advertising now. over the tobacco advertising issue. The big teams will have less to "I believe the Government was spend, but this might mean better

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The Link Magazine â€˘ Janua ry 1998 K.W. Schofield B. Pharm, M.R. Pharm. S.

ASHINGTON WAY PHARMACY Caring for the community since 1985

From walking sticks to wheelchairs! All items can usually be supplied within 24 hours. Catalogue available. Ashington Way, Westlea, West Swindon X .

Tel: (01793) 616840 Monday to Friday: 8.30am - 6.00pm. Closed 12.30pm -1.30pm Saturday 8.30am -12 noon

SWINDON MOBILITY CENTRE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS ELECTRIC AND MANUAL WHEELCHAIRS, SCOOTERS * New and used machines - 30 in stock

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Volunteer info person needed The Thamesdown Association for Disabled People is looking for one or two people to help put together an information pack. They need some research skills to gather information relevant to people with disabilities from a range of sources. They also need access to a computer so that the data about services and facilities can be entered and formatted for printing and distribution. If you could offer your time, or want to find out more, call Joe Backshall on 728122.

Support for carers Are you looking after a member of your family or a friend who has a disability, is growing old and frail, or has an illness? Focus on Carers and Self Help at the Swindon Carers Centre now have an evening support group which meets monthly on Mondays, 7pm to 8.30pm. If you would like more information please contact Margaret Smith on 531133 or write to Focus on Carer's and Self Help, 25 Morley Street, Swindon SN1 1SG.

`Wonderful Christmas present' as Lions team up with mobility centre West Swindon Lions have come to the assistance of a Toothill pensioner by donating a wheelchair from the Swindon Mobility Centre. Joan Hillard-Reed of Beaulieu Close, Toothill did not know the Lions were going to help her until

Lions president Helen Marson said the organisation is dedicated to raising money to help local the evening before she received causes and individuals in need. her wheelchair. "It's a wonderful New members are always welcome Christmas present; I cannot thank to participate in planning and orthe Lions enough," she said. ganising fund raising events. Call Joan came to prominance a few her on 752722 for more informayears ago when she met a long lost tion. son who was taken to South Africa She also thanked the Swindon after the war. Sadly her husband Mobility Centre for supplying the Bill died suddenly in July. "Bill chair. The centre in Westlea has used to do everything for me; I'm the largest range of wheelchairs in now having to relearn how to do the town and is the only place to things for myself," said Joan. "The hire electric chairs and scooters. chair will help me get about bet- They also carry over 300 aids for ter." people with disabilities. Joan Hillard-Reed tries out her chair with help from Steve Law and Kit ArrowCumb of the Swindon Mobility Centre, Helen Marson and Steve Austin of the West Swindon Lions

The Link Magazine â€˘ Janua ry 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Options Plus celebrates 15 years offering independent advice to people with disabilities Options Plus chairwoman Michelle Howard, manager Vanessa Morgan and Jenny Bayliss, occupational therapist describe the services on offer.

k^xal ficd Taixter 6C 7!) caratvr 93 r^L: 017 3xteriar a td E,x i-1i'r 855099 rti^cat^r rcc

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA ^:

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ore

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Chiropodist Reflexologist Michelle Howard, front, with Vanessa Morgan, right, and Jenny Bayliss, in one of the permanent display areas at the Options Plus centre

Op ti ons Plus is celebrating its the elderly, their relatives and 15th anniversary this year, having carers, as well as professionals. We started life known as the Swindon pride ourselves on offering unbiCentre of Independent Living. We ased and practical information, are located at the Independent guidance and advice on equipment Living Centre on Stratton Road, so that maximum independence can be achieved. next door to Rom an Glass. On show at the Options Plus There are a wide range of services available to the disabled and Centre is a permanent display of over 450 aids and equipment on loan from specialist manufacturers. These include items for the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, small transfer aids, high seat chairs, walking frames, wheelchairs and Do you find shopping difficult? accessories. Are you unable to get to the suTo maintain our impartiality we permarket? Is car ry ing heavy or do not sell any equipment, albulky items difficult? Is the lack though we can advise where items of convenient transport a conce rn ? can be purchased locally. Do you find shopping and small We are pleased to arrange tours children don't mix? Or do you of the centre for interested groups have other reasons that prevent or alternatively will come and talk you doing your groce ry shop? to your group about our work. Well, Shopperphone is here to Information on local groups and help writes newly appointed Co- other services and agencies in the ordinator Heather Dairies. area plus advice on where to go for We provide a grocery shopping specific help is provided. and delivery service to people who Our opening hours are Monday are unable to shop for themselves, to Thursday, 9am to 4pm and Frifor whatever reason. Regardless day 9am to 12.30pm. of age, status or anything else. We You can either telephone for incover the whole of Swindon, each formation or we offer an appointarea being given a designated de- ment with our occupational theralivery. day. We are happy to offer pist who will assess and advise this service on a regular or irregu- you on the most suitable items for lar basis, permanently or tempo- your particular needs. rarily. We accept that people may For an appointment telephone only require help with heavy or 01793 643966. bulky items. Our aim is to be flexible, to fit the needs of the cusAge Concern Swindon can tomer. The amazing thing is the lend you one for a few weeks cost, just ÂŁ2 per delivery." without charge (though If you would like more informadonations are welcome). tion about Shopperphone contact Call Age Concern Swindon Heather on 01793 531766 or write on 692166. to 1 John Street, Swindon SN1 1RT

Shopping to your doorstep

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Pn'mTse Quality home care company needs staff

Primrose Care Limited, the market leader in the provision of home care, has arrived in Swindon and expects to provide employment for many local people. In fact, the company is crying out for reliable, friendly and helpful people to work flexible hours in the Swindon area. All successful applicants are fully trained, so previous experience is not necessary. Ker ry Wood Primrose Care has experienced prolific growth & Jackie Mansfield in its 5 year history, with offices situated all over England. Backed by BUPA, it aspires to be the `M & S' of the domiciliary care market by offering high quality care to its clients.

"Demand from new clients has been tremendous," says Kerry Wood, Swindon Branch Manager. "We provide excellent training for staff, the opportunity to gain NVQ's recognised by City & Guilds, and opportunities for promotion and progression. There are many potential carers who are actively caring without realising it; offering voluntary help. Such people can become 'professional carers' whilst earpring some money and gaining further qualifications."

To rind out more, call Kerry Wood on (01793) 616066 PRIMROSE CARE LIMITED, CHARNWOOD COURT, NEWPORT STREET, SWINDON

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

Computer investment

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Core literacy and numeracy skills are high on the agenda at Bradon ° JUST Forest School. And to raise academic achievement, the school has set up a computer suite to give students access to special software ARRIVED y designed to improve basic skills. Sizes Price aa) The school is one of the few in 36.44 £29.99 P the country to have acquired Z 46-50 £35.99 7r o .; ` 52-56 £39.99 ^a 'SuccessMaker,' which combines the enjoyment of working with 0 CAR COATS N computers with the ability to dePetrol, Navy, Fawn, Lovatt, Grey liver intellectual tasks at a level C) 124 Cricklade Road, Swindon w appropriate to the individual. Telephone: (01793) 642211 3 y Bradon head Chris Montacute Open: 9am - 5.30pm, Wed 9am - 1pm, expressed delight at the new inSat 9am - 5pm • Free car park vestment. "Research has shown Jensons for Wedding Hire. FREE CAR PARK that SuccessMaker produces significant learning improvement. In one project, gains of up to 20 months in number skills were produced in just 6 months use of the Bradon Forest students working in t OccacS wy programme. In other projects, age related reading gains can be up to the new SuccessMaker computer suite Handmade gowns 12 months after just 7 hours on the He added that the programme system. automatically raises the degree of and cocktail wear "By having half a class working work difficulty if more than 75% For sale or hire through individual learning proof questions are being correctly grammes on the computer, a answered. And the programme To discuss your teacher can work with the other will produce individualised homerequirements, half. In effect this enables us to work sheets. call Hilary on work intensively with classes of 14 Initially, all year 7 students will students. But at the same time use the system for one and a half (01666) 510306. those working independently hours a week. Mr Montacute is 10 minutes from Swindon. know the teacher can monitor their convinced that the outcome will Easy Parking. A work effort through his own com- be better examination results for puter." all students in the future.

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Many people across Swindon will have reason to remember the help Alan Doyle gave them when planning their holidays in the past. He was the manager at Fitzgerald Travel in Wood Street, for more than ten years, until it consolidated with Highworth Travel in 1993. He has now started up his own travel business in conjunction with Mary Green, also formerly of Highworth Travel, and is hoping

Tel. (01793) 432252 Fax (01793) 435717

to meet up with some of his old customers at his newly fitted-out offices at the top of Victoria Hill in Old Town, Swindon.

Alan believes that the strength of Old Town Travel is its independence. "The industry has changed," he says. "People are far more widely travelled and know what they want. We have the edge over the big multiples as an independent agent. We are not tied to linked operators and insurance companies, nor are we a cut price outfit. "We just concentrate on your needs and find the best value package to suit your budget. As an ABTA member we have found that more and more people prefer peace of mind by paying the little extra which ensures they are covered for any eventuality". Alan is confident of the growth potential of Old Town Travel and hopes to open a branch in West Swindon in due course. In t h e meanti me, to book that holiday of a lifetime, call Old Town Travel on (01793) 432252.

Providing the following services: * Package holidays * Charter flights * Scheduled flights * Tailor-made holidays * Hotel rese rv a ti ons * Airport parking * Hire cars * Travel insurance

We can be found at the top of Victo ri a Hill (next to the Evening Advertiser). Lots of loco j'parking

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

New vicar for oldest church

Freshbrook

On 21 Janua ry , the congregation of St Ma ry 's Church in Lydiard Park welcomes a new team vicar. So what will she be like? Here are a few answers from the vicar herself.

Evangelical Church

Name: Ann MacKenzie (pictured) Age: 43 years Status: Happily single Birth place: Sturry, a village on the outskirts of Canterbury, Kent Before becoming a clergy person, I was a teacher at a school in Winscombe, Somerset. Besides teaching science subjects, I was a residenthousemistress. When God called me to train to be a vicar, I chose a college in Bristol and spent two years studying. In 1985 I went as a curate to my first church in Normanton, West Yorkshire. I arrived there just at the end of the miner's strike which had hit the townsfolk very hard in all sorts of ways, not least financially. What was such a thrill was to see how as a church we could reach out to the community and try to help them get through this tough time. It was amazing to see just how God wanted to show his love and care to so many people during this time.

Worsley Road

ting to know people and places 'further west'. There must be something that attracts me to New Towns. • Rev. Ann MacKenzie will be inducted as team vicar on Wednesday 21 January, 7.30pm at St Mary's

Send a cow from Swindon It was a great way to learn the ropes of being a vicar. In 1990, I moved to Bletchley, near Milton Keynes. Lots more people were coming into the church, and so I was responsible for starting a new one in a school. Suffering and illness are always a concern to people, and one of my particular jobs has been helping to develop the healing prayer group. I am sorry to be leaving church friends there, but very pleased that God has called me to move to West Swindon and look forward to get-

Muslim's mark miracle Swindon's Jamia Mohammadia held the annual celebration of Mehraj Un Nabi (SAW) at Greendown School's community suite on 13 December. Secretary of the Jamia Mohamm- remember the time when the adia Mohammad, Salis Khan said Prophet Mohammed, peace be the occasion marked the ascension upon him, went to heaven to see to heaven by the Prophet God's good works and to meet Mohammad. "TheMehraj UnNabi God. It is one the highest miracles." is one of the most important events Islamic scholars spoke about in our faith," said Mr Khan. "We this important occasion in Arabic, Urdu and English and young members of the Jamia Mohammadia read from the holy scriptures and sang religious songs. Left: Mohammad Salis Khan with young members of Jamia Mohammadia, centre Ali Khan, from left, Addul Ghaffar, Atiff Ghafar, Haroon Khan

Arabic classes: Mr Khan runs Arabic classes for young people aged 4 to 18 years at Greendown School on Tuesday and Wednesday from 6.15pm to 7.30pm. For details, call 881262.

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

10.30am All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Brian at the Church Office: 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

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All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight 772417 (for the Village and Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw-10:30am RevdAndrew Hetherington 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Ma ry 's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Until Ann McKenzie arrives, please contact Andrew Hethrington Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Jan Pa rt ridge 534992 (also Free Church minister for the parish)

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The Church of Christ the Se rv ant in Abbey Meads receives a visit by Theo Tesfye from Ethiopia to talk about project development and the spread of Christianity on Tuesday 6 January. Deaconess Maureen Spinks said the illustrated talk will be part of the 'Send a Cow' project. "There has been a lot of church growth in Ethiopia since the war a few years ago and the ministry has difficulty keeping up with the need," said Maureen. "The church in Abbey Meads is also growing, but the experience is very different. There are new reports from Ethiopia of more conflict and Christians again being persecuted. The evening should be very interesting to find out how people are rebuilding lives after troubled times, and also to find out how they are rebuilding their faith." Send A Cow director Peter Reed will also talk about efforts by British farmers to improve cattle stock in Ethiopia. "We now send money to buy stock to help improve milk and meat production," said Peter. "Theo has an extraordinary story. He was imprisoned by the Communists when he was 15 because of his Christian beliefs and describes some incredible situations. He is now a leader in his church." The Send a Cow meeting takes place in Abbey Meads community centre on Elstree Way at 8pm where a collection will be taken.

Westlea Church -10:00am Revd Peter Walker 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

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

The Link Magazine • Jan

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Pine cot with mattress, £60. Britax Rocka-Bye car seat, up to 9 months, £20. Musical mobile, £10. Bouncy cradle, £8. All vgc. Tel: 701969 McLaren pram/pushchair, carrycot and car seat combo, blue floral, £120. Mothercare bath, yellow, £10. Boys clothes, 0-2yrs vgc, offers. Tel: 879509 Child's Casio keyboard, £6. Child's typewriter & case, £6. Tel: 771900 Golf clubs, brand new, Wilson John Daly, stainless steel 3 iron to s wedge, £150 ono. Tel: 764039 Laura Ashley evening gown, size 12, black velvet with taffeta skirt, as new, £45. Single fold bed with mattress, £40. Tel:878586 Clairol Benders, 20 heated flexible shapers with styling pick in a case, £10. Cordon Bleu slow cooker with 7 day recipe book, £10. Both vgc. Tel: 874062

WHERE THE BEST COSTS LESS

Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill, Swindon. Tel: 496930

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For Sale Assorted kitchen cabinets, £20 each. Child's cycle hat, £5. Fisher Price cassette player, £8. Tel: 771900 Robinson Willey gas fire, good condition, £35 ono. Tel: 877836 Green 3 piece suite, excellent condition, £150. 5' x 6' black cabinet, with lights, cupboards and shelves, also, 6' x 3' matching cabinet, excel condition, £250. Tel: 494706 Parker Knoll 2 seater settee, £100, reclining fireside chair, £80, dark brown dralon, vgc. Tel: 771104 Parkinson Cowan 505 gas cooker, immaculate condition, £75. Tel: 874990 Chunky solid pine bunk beds, including mattresses, nearly new, £160 ono. Tel:

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Yale lock & keys £10, A4 size brass effect letterbox £5, 12 window locks £6. Tel:

--------------------t r-Free Private For Sale &. Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

876920

3 piece suite with reversible cushions, fawn/chintz, very comfy (Fogarty feather stuffing), plus extra covers in pink, £200 ono. Tel: 872717 2 bar electric heater, £2. 3' wooden headboard, £2. 6'6" x 2'9" front door, £15. Tel: 692197 Sharp hi-fi midi system, good condition, £25. Tel: 434354

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The Link Magazine • January 1998

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Talented musicians from Greendown Community School presented the BBC Children In Need appeal with half the proceeds of their unusual pop music spectacular held in the Hilton Hotel in November. Special guests on the evening lights crew, put on a very profesJulia Drown MP and Children in sional show for 200 guests who Need Swindon organiser Shirley had to bid for the performances. Ludford met the performers again The first act raised £80, the last to receive a cheque for over £1,064. pulled in over £800 from an inThe other half of the evening's fund creasingly generous audience. Shirley Ludford said, "the raising will go towards music deevening was a remarkable event; velopment at the school. The fifty young musicians, sup- the standard of music was excelported by guitarist Andy Skittrall lent and the young performers and a semi-professional sound and were brilliant."

Greendown chair of governors Andrew Basson paid tribute to the students' efforts and also to music teacher Andre Pysanczyn who has developed such enthusiasm for music at the school. • Greendown raised nearly £500 from wacky activities in school on Children in Need day on 21 November including a teachers' karaoke in front of the whole school.

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