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Celebrating 20 Years

Congratulations on achieving two decades By the Mayor of Swindon councillor Brian Ford It doesn't seem like 20 years since The Link magazine was born with a small circulation of 600 in what was the new development in the West Swindon area. There was concern that the people settling in the new houses would be isolated and a community magazine seemed a good way of keeping residents informed about local news. The Link may appear to newcomers to have taken its name from the Borough Council's Link Centre but, in fact, it existed long before that building came on the scene. The circulation grew in line with the expansion of West Swindon. All households had a copy delivered every six weeks and the magazine itself increased in size as the number of

)useholds and consequently the items of news erited wider reporting. From its humble beginngs The Link increased to its present level of ound 20,000 now covering the Northern sector ^velopment as well as the original Western Exinsion area. One common factor has remained all that time )ger Ogle as writer, photographer, editor, pubher and general factotum! It is a great pleasure have been asked to write this article to congratute The Link on its 20th birthday. It is an example v, all a community magazine should be. Well done everyone - the staff, the printers and all those who contribute to make The Link the indispensable reference document it is in 1999.

From paste-up to cyberspace By Link magazine publisher Roger Ogle An article on the front page of Link no. 3 in Ap ri l 1979 pointed out that publication might not continue if more volunteers did not come forward to help produce it. Twenty years on, with a site on the Internet, we're still here - bigger, better and more colourful than ever. Since December 1979, the magazine has changed dramatically in appearance, but the aims remain the same - to give a voice to people at a local level, to emphasise the positive and to celebrate the efforts people put into developing their communities.

By comparison to today's glossy colourful magazine, The Link in the early days was a primitive publica ti on. A group of volunteers would get together every few weeks to bash out stories on an old typewriter with a fading ribbon, then stick all the bits down before

AilinNMpa^u^ Published by West Swindon Publications

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BP Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Advertising: Jenni Fowler Tel: (01793) 872531 Editorial:

Gina Dennis Tel: (01793) 849518

Copy date for Febuary edition: 15 January Published: 30 Janua ry Copy for March: 12 Februa ry "The Link was first published West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in No rt h Swindon commenced in January 1994." Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of adve rt isements forbusiness use, including publication is forbidden unless adve rt isers or publishers have sought permission. A rt icles and photographs require similar authority.

going to the printer. For the first couple of years, the volunteers would staple the pages together before more helpers distributed it. By January 1987, it was clear that the successful newsletter could not be sustained any longer. From 600 copies, it had grown to 16 pages and a print run of 8,000. But it did not appear often enough and its content had become less relevant to such a large population. More importantly, the volunteers were moving onto other things, and the small army of distributors was dwindling rapidly. Left: Thamesdown Council ran a competition to name the new West Swindon leisure centre. The Link newsletter entered and was chosen to christen the Link Centre in April 1984. The volunteers, pictured from left, Nick Jansen, Thamesdown Council leader, Tony Mayer, Janice Oliver, Roger Ogle, Eric Edwards. Sharon McColl, front, from Old Town also suggested the name and received a prize

The Link either had to disappear or become more relevant to its readership. In April 1987, I relaunched it as a professionally produced monthly, featuring the opening of Greendown School by Princess Anne on the front page. Continued on page 5

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Celebrating 20 Years

Jenni helps business get results

The Link makes the

right connections

Gina Dennis joined The Link six months ago. She describes what she Jenni Fowler has been selling The Link's advertising for eighteen has found months. I write and research for an average of ten hours a week, though most of this happens in the two weeks before our deadline. Stories come tome in a number of ways. We receive many press releases and letters, which I follow up. Sometimes people telephone me with an issue or some news. I'm always keen to hear from Link readers if there is something they think should be publicised or if they have a story to tell - but please remember that my deadline is usually around the 12th of the month for the following edition. I also contact many organisations and groups on a regular basis for their news. Highlights of my first six months include interviewing the Thompson triplets for the July edition, working on the mental health feature for November and the privilege of being the first reporter to get a guided tour of the new Swindon Foyer Project in October.

I meet and speak to so many interesting people it is difficult to pick out only a few examples. One thing that has struck me is the degree to which The Link manages to live up to its name. Whether through its pages or by making connections between people in the course of our work, very often we seem to bring individuals or groups together in a way which makes things happen. Coming from a background of community work, I gain much job satisfaction this way. I really appreciate it when people come back to me to let me know that there has been a positive response to an article. You can contact me by post through the Link office, by telephone on 849518 or by e mail at gina.dennis@usa.net . I look forward to hearing from you. • Gina also prepares materials to appear on the swindonlink internet site: www.swindonlink.com

During this time, she has seen the magazine grow from an average of 32 pages a month to between 40 and 48. As she has brought in more advertisers, so the editorial content has been increased to match, maintaining a ratio of around 55% advertising to 45% editorial. "As a Link reader, I feel the magazine provides an excellent

community resource," says Jenni. "It's informative, attractive, local and interesting. People really do read it and keep it throughout the month - we hear this regularly from our readers and advertisers. "From my advertising sales point of view, I believe it offers our customers a good, secure platform from which to promote themselves." She is delighted by increasing feedback from her clients that they are getting enquiries through The

I n the north

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Meads is the contact person for the Haydon Wick and North Swindon area. "Since I started with The Link in May, I have found people use the magazine as a useful and convenient reference point and keep it from one month to the next," said mother of two Tanya. Tanya is always interested to hear from people in North Swindon. Telephone 705105.

Salesperson Jenni Fowler

Link from the town centre and other districts in and around Swindon, not within its main distribution area. Having lived in West Swindon for 17 years, Jenni remembers distributing some of the early newsletter editions as a volunteer in the Ramleaze area. Since then she has developed a successful sales career in advertising and marketing. But she describes working for The Link as 'the best move I ever made.' She is particularly pleased at how well she has been able to combine her work with raising son Conor, born in May - typical, she says, of The Link's 'family approach'.

Her relationship with advertisers is similarly based on personal concern and integrity. She is delighted that many now make a point of reading the magazine, even though they are not West or North Swindon based, and value its content as well as its advertising potential. With 20 years behind it, Jenni sees The Link going from strength to strength.

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Celebrating 20 Years

Impressive achievement

Linked up for twenty years

Michael Wills, MP for Swindon North writes

Matt Holland of Lower Shaw Farm writes Reading a lot, as I do, an d watchful of words in print, I took immediate note of a new magazine that landed on our mat early in 1980. There were three things that were striking about it. It dared to cover good news, it concentrated on truly local items and it seemed full of competitions to name new places, like pubs, playgrounds and local magazines! It was a pleasure to read, full of lively stories about successful things that were happening in West Swindon. And what's more, it was a directory and source of information too, which was invaluable in an area of new developments. By November of that year, it even had a page that described a fascinating old place called Lower Shaw Farm, that was running a course call Life Through Literature and another entitled Singing Weekend. Matt Holland with an urban sheep

How could I not become a lifelong reader. From all of us down on this farm, many thanks an d congratulations to the hard-working Ogle editorial team for having maintained the magazine's founding spirit these twenty years while all the time improving its quality, design and appearance. And best wishes for many more years coverage of positive and local news.

Twenty years is quite an achieve- and North Swindon. ~' V " For twenty years, The ment for anything in the media nowadays, so this 7 Link has been one of the most important ways the magazine deserves conmembers of these commugratulations just for keepnities have talked to each ing going so long. other. It has been their noBut I am not just applaudtice-boardd and their ing its survival. I am celmonthly news bulletin. It ebrating the fact that for twenty years it has done so much has been a glue which has helped to foster community spirit in the bond these communities together. newer areas of the town in West It is a precious resource for all of us. Happy Birthday The Link.

True to its roots

By Pam Pixton, Freshbrook resident and Swindon Borough Council Neighbourhood Worker, writes I've lived in Freshbrook for 19 years

and I can remember my first copy of The Link being delivered. It had just one or maybe two pages, but it was very informative and helped us to settle in. Some time later, I went to a 'cut and paste' session, typing up copy, manually cutting up borders and text and pasting them into a layout. I also volunteered to deliver copies to some of West Swindon's new homes. Later, when delivery became paid as The Link grew, my son an d daughter both took on rounds - I did the work and they got paid." As a neighbourhood worker, The Link has been an invaluable way

of getting information out to the community and I always advise groups to make use of it. It nearly always produces good results. Of course the magazine is totally different now from the first copies I remember, but Ibelieve it has kept its roots in the community and not lost touch. I wish it lots of success for the next 20 years.

ing and editorial. So many people tell us they read The Link from 'cover-to-cover' because of the high quality news, views and information it contains. The relationship we have with readers makes it worthwhile putting in all the hard work to keep it going. And for the future: paper publishing will be around for some time to come, but electronic communication becomes more important by the month. Working with Mark Hodgson from Grange Park, who runs Jupiter Systems, a lot of The Link can now be read on our web site @ www.swindonlink.com which also brings together a lot of useful information which you might have to hunt for in many different places. It's early days for the Internet. But were exploring how to make swindonlink as good, useful and as relevant as The Link has been for the last 20 years. Thanks for your continued support and encouragement.

family fish` )Jreskwranfs & take-aways

Congratulations to The Link on 20 years of service to the community West Swindon Centre Tel: 870455

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Forward unto the Internet (continued from page 3) Three features of the The Link have remained constant. It has always: i. been free ii. been dependent on advertising for most of its 200 editions iii. had a high editorial content. The first editions relied on Thamesdown Council, Hambro Life Charitable Trust and the goodwill of local printers. But from Link no. 5, business has kept it afloat with advertising. Obviously we must be doing something right for the advertisers and we must give them a big thank you for placing their business with The Link. But more importantly, even greater thanks should go to you, the readers, for responding to the advertisements. This means there is a great deal of trust between the magazine, its readership and its commercial supporters. Its something we must preserve and enhance. We will do this by trying to maintain a balance between advertis-

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Leader gets the heave-ho Swindon council leader Maurice Fanning, below, has been given the order of the boot by Toothill Labour Party. First elected in 1993 to the Toothill Ward, which covers Toothill, Westlea, Shaw and Sparcells/Peatmoor, he won the seat again in 1995. He was Mayor of Swindon in 1997 until April 1998 when he took over the leadership of the council. Apparently Maurice was deselected because he does not live in the area; he lives in Old Town. Peter Mallinson, who lives on Shaw Ridge, was chosen to represent Labour in the Toothill ward in the May local council elections. Peter, below, ran as a Tory candidate against Maurice in the 1995 elections. The other Labour councillor for the ward David Cox lives on the Wootton Bassett Road. All three Labour councillors for Freshbrook Ward - a separate Labour party branch - live outside the area. Gorse Hill Labour councillor and former leader Sue Bates lives in Freshbrook, as does Bob Pixton who represents Whitworth Ward.

WESTLEA

Early Learning winner Baby Cory Jevdet of Westlea recently stole the show as 'Best Newcomer' in a photo' competition run by the Early Learning Centre's Swindon store. Cory, now ten months old, won £25 worth of Early Learning Centre vouchers after mum Nicky entered his picture for the 'Magical Learning Awards'. Nicky was shopping in ASDA when a call from her husband on her mobile brought her the news of Cory's win. "It brought tears to my eyes,"she said. "We obviously think he's gorgeous but it's nice to know other people do too." Winners in other categories included David Brickell of Freshbrook - 'Best Artist', George Corfield of Middleleaze - 'Best Architect' and Max Reynolds of Greenmeadow - 'Best Performer'. All the winners have now been entered for the regional heats of Who's got a big smile? the competition. Cory and his mum Nicky

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Westlea brother and sister, Gary and Emma Davies, made their mark at a Wiltshire Badminton Association tournament in November. Emma, 10, who attends Westlea School, was runner up in the under 13 girls singles and doubles. Gary, 12, now at Ridgeway, went one better. He won the under 13 boys doubles and was runner up in the singles. Both children play for the Pinehurst Club and represent Wiltshire in their under 15s squad. Mum Joan is delighted they are following in her footsteps. She started out as a junior aged 14. She said, "I'm really pleased that Gary and Emma are doing so well in a sport they enjoy." Emma is now looking forward to defending her Wiltshire Badminton Association under 11s title at a tournament in January.

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New year, new head Freshbrook School welcomes a new head teacher in January following the resignation of previous head, Phillip Gurney, who had been on sick leave since Christmas 1997. Robert Pattenden, who lives at school in January," he said. "Eve- term. Chair of Governors Lynette Highworth, is currently head of ryone I have met on my visits has Leonard was keen to acknowledge Compton Bassett Church Aided been very friendly and welcom- their hard work. School near Newbury, which has ing." "We're delighted to welcome Mr Noel Simmons from Wroughton Pattendon to Freshbrook School to 150 children on roll. Freshbrook was brought in as acting head last carry on the good work of the last currently has 450 children. A keen trombone and piano year, with deputy head Jane Par- year and take us forward into the player, Mr Pattenden is hoping to sons filling in during the autumn new century," she said. build on the already good music Robert Pattenden, with Freshbrook School children, from left, Manjt Bharj, provision at Freshbrook. He has Chloe Roberts, Lee Webb, Hannah Edwards, Charlotte Reid, Kayleigh Williams. visited the school several times Front, Emma Carpenter during the autumn term to meet staff and take part in assemblies. "I am looking forward to joining the

PARTNERS HAIR

Annual meeting The Freshbrook Village Group annual meeting takes place in Freshbrook Community Centre on Wednesday 13 January, 8pm. The FVG manages the centre and represents community interests in Fresbrook and Grange Park. All residents of the area are invited to attend.

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Children, parents, teachers and parents will be boosting literacy at Tregoze School when they launch a four month proj ect on 18 January. Called Books and Beyond, everybody who signs up will be asked to note the books they are reading and also review the time spent watching TV. Coordinating teacher Stephan Richardson said the aim is very simple. "We are asking everybody connected with the school to read more books for pleasure. All ages can take part and all abilities, from a teacher reading a novel, to infants being read to by parents. It is not compulsory, but Books and

Beyond is really exciting and we hope most of the children and their parents will take part. "We're indebted to the Friends of Tregoze School who have raised ÂŁ2,400 from bazaars, cake stalls and fetes to help the school buy new books and resources to launch the Read-A-Thon." He added that every time a child reads a certain number of pages, or completes a book, their effort will be recorded on a large Books and Beyond board in the school.

Parent Bola Clemo, teacher Stephan Richardson with children showing off books purchased with money donated by the Friends of Tregoze School. Rear from left, Linford Webb, Ashley Elbourne, Diana Yerbury-Hodgson, Harriet Leach, Kerrie Jones, Elizabeth Drinkwater, Sean Bailey. Front, Hannah Clemo, Jenny Medland

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

Brook Field kids go for healthy options Year 5 children at Brook Field School are eating more fruit and vegetables and turning their noses up at burgers and chips as a result of their studies for the Midday Munching Project. Since mid-October, the youngsters have investigated nutrition and its effect on the body and learning which foods are good for you and which are not. They also studied where foodstuffs are grown, and produced a range of display material to illustrate their findings, including their own newspaper, the Brook Field Bugle. The November Link exclusively pictured the children at the project

launch tasting fresh fruits, designer Italian bread and spicy foods. Later that month, they visited the Body Lab at the Bristol Exploratory to see and take part in a larger than life exhibition about the digestive system. Teacher Jeanette Miller said the overall aim of the project was to design a lunch box for each day of the week, full of interesting and healthy food to eat. "The children

even though I'm tempted." Ryan Child agreed. "I'm eating fewer chips and burgers and have told my mum that I want to eat more healthy food. I'm eating more fruit and vegetables and drinking more water because it's good for

have put in a lot of work into the lunch boxes based on what they have found out over the last two months. They are now much more aware of the importance of eating nutritional food." Holly Dowling, 9, said her diet had changed since the project started. "We've discovered the effects of eating too much fat and sugar. I'm eating a lot more fruit and I've cut down on sweet things,

you.

Each of the six participating primary schools received £300 from Anchor Foods, and each child was given a new lunchbox.

David Williamson from Swindon Education 2000 and Kate Mosley from Anchor Foods, centre, viewing work by Jeanette Miller's class, left, with Ryan Child and Holly Dowling

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Peddler Jack introduces children to the days of Good Queen Bess Youngsters at Shaw Ridge School discovered what it was like to live in the reign of Elizabeth I when wandering peddler Jack Greene dropped in for a day with dozens of artifacts and fascinating facts and information about the times when William Shakespeare lived. The children heard that you could be hung for simple theft, what it was like to go hunting in the forest and tried out some games you would find at the Elizabethan fairground. Master Jack demonstrated how to use a long bow, whilst his descriptions of medical treatments of the day had the children squirming in their seats. Roxanne Hayes said life sounded rough. "If you were sick and your father could afford to pay a doctor, he might treat you with leaches or give you medicine made from dead frogs or mice. It was disgusting." Master Jack spent a week visiting West Swindon primary schools as part of the West Swindon Schools Shakespeare Festival. See page 39. Jack Greene examines a specimin as would an Elizabethan physician whilst Shaw Ridge children hold up artifacts of the age

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Chinese New Year Tuesday 16th February Join in the celebrations of welcoming in the Year of The Rabbit. A delicious evening meal followed by traditional Chinese entertainment will see in this new year. Bookings now being taken. For more information contact David Myler or Lawrence Lee.

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Haydon Wick Primary School is proud of their recent Ofsted report, which describes a well-run school where most pupils are high achievers. There are has been an improvement since the last report in 1994. The report produced by the inspectors who visited the school S. during the week of 19 October is broadly very positive and states that the school offers the community good value for money and has i "` a strong and purposeful ethos. r` = Teaching is at least satisfactory in 96% of all lessons and is good or better in two out of three lessons. " In the core subjects of English, Maths and Science pupils are well taught and most are high achievers. The same attainment is seen in ! history and physical education. " Teaching of Information Technology, however, is deemed unsatis1 factory for pupils in the 7 to 11 year dteacher Brims Fullam with children front Haydon Wick School age range. Socially, children's behaviour to provide a happy, caring envi- the inspection teamhasrecognised and their attitude to work is de- ronment in which courtesy, good the many strengths of the school. scribed as excellent. Children with manners and consideration for oth- All staff should be praised for enabling the quality of life at school to special needs are well taught and ers is evident. Reflecting on the findings continue at a high level, despite supported. As such they make very good progress throughout the Hayden Wick headteacher Brian the many changes and pressures Fullam said, "I am delighted that which are made upon us." school. The inspectors felt planning methods could be improved and teacher training should become more focused. The report concludes that the weaknesses are far Children at Haydon Meadow Pre-school said goodbye in Decemoutweighed by the strengths. The ber to a helper who just stayed on and on and on. school is seen as being very successful in meeting declared aims S

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Joyce Cattell, cent re, with children and Haydon Meadow playgroup staff, from rear left, Michelle Teague, Katy Ewen, Pauline Gills, supervisor Chris Webb, Linda Taylor, chairperson Wendy Ludlow

Joyce Cattell says she was 'bullied' by her daughter to help out at the Haydon Centre pre-school for two months. Five years later she has now decided to retire to spend more time on her hobbies. Describing her extended commitment, Joyce said, "I have loved every minute of it. You get much more back from the children than you could ever give them." Joyce has observed changes in pre-school education during her time at Haydon Meadow. "Children have to grow up more quickly nowadays. There is much more emphasis on the curriculum than play based activities. Their time

spent with us is still fun but it is more structured." Recalling the Christmas concerts as one of the best times at preschool, Joyce added, "getting a cuddle from the children is extremely rewarding. I shall miss them very much." Joyce, who lives locally with her husband Norman, hopes they will be able to spend more time travelling in their caravan. She also plans to pursue her hobbies of gardening and keep fit. The staff and committee of Haydon Meadow Pre-school presented Joyce with a gift and a bouquet at a concert before breaking up for Christmas.

NORTH SWINDON (including Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge & Taw Hill)

More open space created to protect rare species Recently discovered Great Crested Newts and the Green Winged Orchid in the next stage of Swindon's northern development are to receive protection. The area is of such national importance that English Nature is likely to declare it a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). But all could have been destroyed if environmentalists had not created a fuss after the last general election to delay the building of a further 5,500 houses to the west of Lady Lane. In 1992 Conservative Secretary of State for the Environment Michael Howard declared that the building of 10,000 homes in North Swindon would not have a significant effects on the environment and an assessment of its impact on wildlife was not required. But new Labour Minister John Prescott took the unusual step of reversing the decision by demanding such an assessment be carried out. As a result, rare plant and wildlife have been discovered, another 16 acres of open space has been allocated in the Haydon III phase of the expansion area, and more green corridors have been created to link open spaces. The redesigned plan was published exclusively in the December Link with a notice of a public exhibition on the scheme. Jean Saunders of Swindon Friends of the Earth, who led the campaign for an environmental study, said she was pleased with the outcome. "Unless you look for things you are not going to find out if they are there. Swindon Friends of the Earth are delighted that this study has revealed a significant wildlife site which will now be protected.

It will be an asset to Swindon and the environment for the people who live in North Swindon will be improved." She contrasted the need to consider the impact of development on the landscape with the discovery of foundations for a Roman villa in Abbey Meads during the summer. "Finding Romans ruins attracts a lot of attention and builders have to stop. However with-

Council, said the Haydon III plan had been improved. "The developers were required to look at their proposals again. As a result of the survey and intensive consultation with the planning department, a better scheme has been submitted. There will be more open space and by linking landscaped areas, people will now be able to walk or cycle east and west, north and south across the development."

Planning officer Carol Bristow describes the revised North Swindon plan to Deborah and Adrian Ward of Abbey Measds

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Plans produce concerns over facilities Some 500 people viewed the revised Haydon III plans and talked to Swindon Council planning officers at the public exhibition in early December. Apart from wildlife considerations, transport issues also had to be reviewed. Roads have been redesigned to create a circular bus route. No house should now be further than 400 metres from a bus stop. Senior planning officer Martin Trewhella said that people are generally pleased with the redesign but had raised specific queries including: • the lack of sports and social facilities at the proposed district centre. This will cover 60 acres, equal to the West Swindon Centre plus half of Greenbridge. It will contain a superstore and other retail outlets. But no leisure facilities are planned, apart from a library and a youth centre. • the bus only link from Elstree Way to the district centre and Westfield Way preventing direct car access to Haydon Wick • traffic flow through Haydon Wick to the new district centre • timing of the proposed secondary school. This is provisionally planned for September 2003, subject to empty spaces in other schools and goverment funding. Swindon Friends of the Earth secretary Jean Saunders said she was still unhappy that the secondary school is sited on the edge of the development, which could mean more car journeys by parents

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the Link Centre complex, on the ground floor opposite the ice rink. Telephone 465555. North Swindon is served by Moredon Library in Church Walk North. Tel: 464490. Recent videos All available for hire at the amazing price of £2.25 for a whole week. Anastasia - a delightful animated film from Disney Contact - film version of Carl Sagon's sci-fi tale starring Jodie Foster Titanic - not even Hollywood could give this one a happy ending George of the Jungle - Tarzan spoof, a lot of fun A Life Less Ordinary - romantic comedy with Ewan MacGregor and Cameron Diaz Portrait of a Lady - classy version of the Henry James' novel starring Nicole Kidman

Congratulations It really doesn't seem very long ple find a voice and a space to since West Swindon was a really express their concerns. It also helps new area. In the early days, the them to make contact with others smallness made for a real commu- who share those concerns, so they nity feel. As the area expanded, it can work together more effectively was more difficult for people to to raise these issues in the right keep in touch, to know the area, forum. In this way, real action can and to feel a sense of identity. be taken to improve life in the area, Throughout this time, The Link in the way that residents feel is has been adding its own special appropriate.

TFARIN3DON

•' ^..,

If you make just one new year's resolution, why not promise to use your local library. It's so much less effort than giving up smoking or starting another diet, and you might even keep it up beyond the middle of January. It is completely free to join and to borrow all types of books. Each member of the family can have a membership card and use it to borrow up to eight items. There is a modest hire charge for tapes, CDs and videos. If you have never used the library before or not visited recently remember to bring along some ID showing your address. We especially welcome children of all ages; it's never too soon to nurture an interest in books. Those who have attended the Friday morning storytimes, 10.30am to 11am, will know that libraries are no longer havens of silence. West Swindon library is part of

A 20th birthday is a special celebration, and one which The Link should be congratulated on, writes Principal Librarian David Allen

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blend of information, news, and opinion to the local scene. Information has been its lifeblood. What is it that this information does which is so valuable to our community? Information does not have to be world news to be important locally. Just knowing your way around the road and footpath network is vital if you are to find your way to work, to the shops, to the park, or to the cinema. The Link published the first really useful maps of West Swindon, and has recently produced the first map for North Swindon. Information about people locally helps newcomers find those important early contacts: school headteachers, doctors, dentists, community workers, shopkeepers, even publicans! It also helps new arrivals to feel less isolated. Information about issues of local concern - vandalism, school buses, street lighting, traffic - helps peo-

Information helps people of all ages come together to develop community groups which reflect local interests: sport, the environment, young people, health, computers, elderly people, luncheon clubs. Information also helps people to recognise their existing talents, and to develop new ones: keep fit, adult education in the arts, sciences, and recreation courses. For over 150 years, libraries have been centres of information, helping to create a sense of personal identity, and building living communities. We recognise that information also needs to reach right into people's homes, and this is what The Link does so well. In celebrating this anniversary, it's also an appropriate time to celebrate achievements in building a living community. And everyone should feel good about that.

LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER Lords, Tutsis and Hutus PHILIP STONE 'lER f - all call for attention PAINTER &

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Christmas arrived on 24 November with the Queen's Speech, writes Swindon South MP Julia Drown. The twinkling tiaras made do for Christmas lights, while Santa's sack of goodies was presented by the Queen, who set out the Government's plans for the parliamentary session.

role at Westminster as Vice-Chair of the All Party Group on Rwanda and the Prevention of Genocide. There are over 100 MPs in the group, which wants to stop conflicts like that which occurred in

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Agencies LANDLORDS Julia Drown at the launch of Roots of the Future exhibition in the West Swindon library on 2 December, with members of the Swindon Council for Racial Equality, Sayed Naqvi, emigration officer Veneta Hannibal, CRE chairMahmood Ahmad, director Jaginder Bassi, Joana Mytalas-Scanlon, office manager

Predictably, the headline seiz- Rwanda in 1994, killing nearly one ing proposal was the reform of the million people. At our first meeting I welcomed House of Lords and the abolition of the right of hereditary peers to the President of Rwanda to the House of Commons. He explained sit and vote. For my part I think the abolition how his country's former colonial of hereditary peers from the Lords rulers had promoted divisions, by is long overdue, and I look for- issuing pass books and requiring everyone to idenward to the creatify themselves as re p a more Happy 20th either a Tutsi or a representative The Link magazine is a fan- Hutu. Before that, second chamber. tastic example of commuthe two groups It is an anachronity communication. were not clearly nism to have our It is a vital link, keeping us defined and lived laws decided informed of what is going on with each other uponby a second and where. It strengthens peacefully. chamber, the mathe community's identity and The colonial jority of whose government gave are is much appreciated by its members readers. preferential treatsimply there I wish The Link a very ment to the Tutsis through an accihappy birthday and look forwhich set off the dent of birth. ward to the magazine's next tensions that ended The Queen's in the 1994 massaan- twenty years. Speech cres. The Rwandan nounce.-1 o fher important measures too. There Government is now trying to rewill be a Welfare Reform Bill, build their country and to reconwhich will enact the principle of cile the two groups. The British Government was work for those who can and security for those who cannot, and an thanked for its support in this very NHS Bill, which will abolish un- difficult process. In early December I was pleased necessary bureaucracy by ending GP fundholding, diverting re- to hold one of my regular 'report back from Parliament' meetings in sources into patient care. The Youth Sentencing and Wit- Freshbrook. I'd like to thank those nesses Bill will continue our attack who attended. Thanks also to the on crime by creating a new form of community centre committee for sentencing for young people and organising the venue. Wishing everyone a peaceful protecting witnesses from intimidation. We will also introduce a and prosperous 1999. new programme for fairness at • Julia Drown can be contacted at work and provide more help for 39 Victoria Road, Swindon SN1 3AT or by telephone or textphone working families. I have recentl y taken on a new on 615444.

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Brave Benjamin receives Smartie box support Children attending Roughmoor Nursery School have collected £1,103.65 in Smartie boxes for CALM to show their support for pupil Benjamin McMahon and his family. When four year old Benjamin thing for CALM, the Swindon been superb. I'd just like to say ity and support." came home from nursery school based charity which provides sup- how supportive the staff have been, Lynda believes that the money covered in bruises last July, his port for families with children di- in particular Jan Laver and raised will be used to provide chilparents had no inkling of what agnosed with cancer. Head Jan Benjamin's teacher Linda Olner, dren being treated for cancer at Laver came up with the idea of not only to Benjamin but to myself PMH with a TV and video in their was to come. A few days later they were faced giving each child a box of Smarties and my husband Paul. I'd like to rooms, as well as contributing to with a diagnosis of leukaemia. and asking their families to refill thank everyone for their generos- the CALM Christmas Party. With Benjamin, they now have to them with coins. Benjamin and his mum Lynda, left, wi th Roughmoor head Jan Laver, right and The 61 children collected be- nursery teacher Lynda Olner cope with a gruelling two years of treatment that offers an 80% chance tween £5 and £105 each to reach the total. of recovery. Benjamin's mum Lynda says, Benjamin's nursery school decided they would like to do some- "Roughmoor Nursery School have

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Abbey Meads is growing so rapidly that all the local parent and toddler groups are full. Another group has been formed. Ten parents and children now meet on Fridays, 1.30pm to 3pm, for play activities, craftwork and singing games at the community centre off Elstree Way. Newcomers are more than welcome to join. To find out more, call Maureen Spinks on 706558.

Storyteller weaves wonders with words Children at Woodlands Kindergarten at Peatmoor celebrated the National Year of Literacy with a week of reading in early December. Storysacks borrowed from Brook Field School helped bring stories to life and even morning snacks had literary links. The children also looked at cookbooks and other factual titles. A highpoint of the week was a visit from Usborne Books' storyteller Anne Jones. The children dressed up for the occasion as their favourite characters and decorated gingerbread men for their snack. Anne and her magic box of props kept them spellbound for more than half an hour. The week was organised by parent helper Cheryl Brown who was delighted at its success. "It was a really fun week," she said. "The children learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed themselves - they're still talking about it." Woodlands Kindergarten has places available. To find out more, call Cheryl Brown on 617103. Children of Woodlands Kindergarten with Anne Jones of Usborne books, centre, supervisor Gill Rutland, left, and committee member Cheryl Brown

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Panto cancelled in wake of tragedy North Swindon drama group, the Haydon Players, have cancelled their January pantomime after the tragic death of the central character, Sarah Winrow, in early December. Sarah, 18, a mother of a two year old daughter, was due to have taken the leading role in an adaptation of Goldilocks and the Three Bears but the cast, who had spent several weeks rehearsing their parts with her, decided to cancel the show. A member of the group said there was no enthusiasm to continue with rehearsals, and no one was willing to play Sarah's part. She had been a member of the group since she was 14 and a pupil at Hreod Parkway School. He described Sarah as very intelligent and popular, and she will be much missed by the whole group Sarah was found dead at her

Pinehurst home on 5 December. Her boyfriend Mark Hinton was found dead on a railway line at nearby Sparcells, three hours before Sarah's body was discovered. The police described the case as a terrible domestic tragedy and did not lookfor anyone else in connection with her death. Sarah is survived by her two year old daughter Troy, and her parents Allan and Angela Winrow. The December Link ran an appeal from the group calling for a musician and backstage help. A keyboard playing reader responded, but will now have to wait for another production to be planned.

From the December 1994 Link magazine. Sarah Winrow playing Beauty in the Haydon Players production of Beauty and the Beast

January jazz sets scene for first festival Local musician and jazz enthusiast Ray Butt is well advanced in his plans to stage Swindon's first-everjazz festival in the Spring. And to get the show on the road, he is organising an event at the Swindon Town Winners Lounge featuring top musician Pete Allen, below. An Evening of Jazz on Saturday 16 January will feature the an Bateman Band and the Swindon Big Band. New piano sensation Jamie Callum will also be playing. Ray expects to attract top international performers to the festival in late April and also aims to fea-

ture local talent. He is keen to hear from potential sponsors, venues that wish to participate and musicians who want to perform. For tickets and festival details, contact Ray on 770929 or write to 33 Chestnut Springs, Lydiard Millicent, Swindon SN5 9NA.

Come and join us ... at our warm friendly studio. Enjoy the delights of learning this new hobby from a qualified teacher. You'll create items which will impress friends and family, small classes mean individual attention. We also have stocks of greenware, bisque and ceramic supplies. For details ring Sandie or Vic n Swindon 813700, mobile: 07971776707

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Fortean TV presenter in town Lionel Fanthorpe, presenter of Channel 4s Fortean TV, will be speaking at the Swindon Pegasus Society on Friday 8 January. The science fiction writer and long time paranormal investigator will talk on a topic of his choice at the meeting to be held in the Pinehurst People's Centre, 8pm. A new Fortean series is planned for the new year, looking into premillennium goings on.

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Swindon's 90th Annual Music Festival takes place at the Arts Centre in the Spring. This is a competitive festival with classes for all ages in everything from singing or playing

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an instrument to composition. Copies of the syllabus are now available from Duck, Son & Pinker in Fleet Street. The closing date for entries is 15 January.

Performance space lost to keep fit

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West Swindon's only dedicated arts facility, the Link Arts Suite, is to be redeveloped as an Active Lifestyle health and fitness centre. Details are currently being finalised to allow the refurbishment to begin by early summer 1999. This will be the end of the line forthe purpose-built, 150 capacity pe rf ormance venue and its craft and photographic studios. As far as possible, moveable seating, lighting and sound Jenny Hatch, of the Helen O'Grady equipment will be reused in the Ike Drama Academy, a user of LinkAtts Gradwell Community Suite Hall. "We do not intend to attempt to equipment. It may also include a make an arts studio of the Ike 'fitness surge ry ' for use by physioGradwell Hall," said Link Centre therapists and other specialists. Reacting to Swindon Council's Manager Alan Richards. "We do feel confident that we can decision, Greendown teacher Tim adequately accommodate current Noble, who used the suite extensively during 1988 for drama Arts Suite groups." Photographic equipment will be work with primary schools, said he re-housed at one of Swindon's other was very disappointed. "The Arts Suite is purpose designed for arts facilities. The new fitness centre will feature performance; it will be a loss of an the latest cardiovascular and fitness impo rt ant resource."

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Thursday 14 January Comedy Punchline Comedy Club featuring Woody Bop Muddy and support. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Saturday 16 January Music Masterclassforsingerswith Harry Van Berne. Arts Centre,

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Alan & Valerie Watkins Welcome you to

Until Saturday 16 January Pantomime Jack&the Beanstalk. Wyvern. Tickets from £11.50 Friday 8 January to Saturday 9 January Music Pat Donovan presents The Novello Story. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5, to book call 852711 Sunday 10 January Variety Limelight Theatre presents An Evening of Variety. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5 from 480080 Monday 11 January Music The Music Club presents The Commonweal Experience. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Tuesday 12 January Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy Club. Mackenzie's, Wood Street, 7.45cm. £4.50

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January overview Sunday 17 January Music Swindon Recital Series Harry Van Berne, tenor, and Paul Turner, piano. A rt s Centre, 8pm. Tickets £8, only from 644051 Monday 18 January Music The Music Club presents Swindon Music Festival Conce rt . A rt s Centre, 7.45pm Thursday 21 January Music Che ry l Beer, an energetic and dynamic performer. Arts Centre, 8pm. £6 Friday 22 January & Saturday 23 January Family Funnybones presented by Snap Theatre Co. Suit 5-11 s. Arts Centre, Fri 7pm, Sat 2.30pm. £6, children £5, family £20 Wednesday 27 January to Saturday 30 January Drama An Inspector Calls presented by Phoenix Players. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4

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WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIA Wednesday 6 January, 7.45pm I Went Down (15) Set against the backdrop of rural Ireland's peat bogs, this fresh and funny film has been described as an 'Irish gangster comedy road movie with a minimum of violence'. Arts Centre. Swindon Film Soc. Tuesday 12 January, 7.45pm Love is the Devil (18) Derek Jacobi gives a mesmerising portrayal of artist Francis Bacon. Arts Centre. £3.50 Monday 18 January, 7.45pm The Horse Whisperer (PG) Robert Redford plays the rugged hero of this touching romance opposite Kristen Scott-Thomas. Wyvern, £3.95 Tuesday 19 January, 7.45pm The Land Girls (12) This appealing, funny and moving fil m portrays three young women in Women's Land Army on a ruarl farm during World War II. Arts Centre. £3.50 Elizabeth (15) The drama, lust and conflict of the Elizabethan court. Wyvern, £3.95 Wednesday 20 January, 7.45pm Unhook the Stars (15) Nick (son of John) Cassavetes' directional debut is a rich, low-key character study of Mildred who befriends the small son of her promiscuous neighbour and finds that life, again, has lots to offer. Arts Centre. Swindon Film Society Les Miserables (12) Romance across the barricades of revolutionary France takes place against striking scenery with a range of famous British cameos. Wyvern, £3.95 Thursday 21 January Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (18) Home grown black comedy with a Tarantino twang. Rval gangs exchange bullets and one-liners in a true gangster gem featuring hard man Vinnie Jones. Wyvern, £3.95 Friday 22 January The Trueman Show (PG) With undertstated comic genius, Jim Carey discovers he does not li ve on a TV set. Wyvern, £3.95 Saturday 23 January Saving Private Ryan (15) Starring Tom Hanks and Matt Damon this film recreates the devastation of World War II battle lines. Wyvern, £3.95

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On 23 January, 10am to 4pm, Following the inclusion, in the December Link, of the two page newsletter from the volunta ry organisation bridge players will be competing t ry ing to save Swindon's Mechanics Institute, a display has been mounted on the upper level of the Brunel for the Charity Cup - and a tea Shopping Centre describing in pictures the glory days of the past, the present dereliction and the hopes there party with the Mayor in his parlour. are for the future. The tournament will be played The New Mechanics Institute Trust are applying for lotte ry funding to buy the building and turn it into a under the Chicago System and community, a rt s and media centre for the town. there is a minimum entry fee of £5 per person. All proceeds will go to the Mayor's Helping Hand Fund. For details call Phil Rashid on

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WHY STRUGGLE WITH HEAVY CANS & BULKY BAGS? LET

"NY.

DO THE WORK? Top pet food delivered free to your door 3 Full Range of Complete Dog Food 3 Complete Cat Foods 3 Puppy Food 3 Rabbit & Bird Food 3 D ry Mixers 3 Cat Litter and much more available at competitive prices For information and free sample, contact your local agent: Wendy & Roy Rudkin. Tel: 01793 873021 T ro phy International Animal Products (oxford) Lid

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The Butchers Arms, Greatfield Wednesday 27 January, 8pm. Free entrance. Everyone welcome to relax, li sten or read poems. The evening will be a celebration of poetry and will include live contributions from known local published poets. For more information, call David Pike, on 875941 or e-mail david.pike@virgin.net

New delivery service makes life easier for pet owners The struggle with weighty bags of pet food can be a thing of the past, thanks to a new se rvice for pet owners launched at the end of October. Wendy and Roy Rudkin of Westlea have taken on Trophy produces their own quality range of pet a franchise from Trophy International Animal Prod- foods at competitive prices - free samples and trial ucts. They will deliver top quality British foods and size bags are available. However, Wendy and Roy supplies free to your door, seven days a week can also deliver other brands. They even offer advice including evenings. Cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea on nutritional and special needs as part of their pigs, parrots and other birds are all catered for. service, with expertback up from a customer helpline. Wendy stresses that theirs is a personal and indi- As well as food, they will deliver hay, straw and vidual service. "We are really looking forward to woodshavings, worming and flea control products, getting to know customers and their pets. Already treats and accessories. Pet insurance on easy payI am finding that some customers' dogs recognise ment terms can be arranged through them. me and get excited when I deliver their supplies." Wendy and Roy can be contacted on 873021.

VETERINARY SURGEONS

a Simon Gower & Associates B.V.Sc., M.R.C.V.S. 77 High Street, Purton Bath Road, Cricklade Q ^► R011 Tel: 771869 Tel: 751698 Please telephone for consulting hour • All consultations by appointment 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: TELEPHONE 771869

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE David Warnes B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S. Shaw Village Centre c (^ -im Ramleaze Drive, Shaw Swindon SN5 9PY '^

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Tel: (01793) 881919 Consultations by appointment j Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm 24 HOUR EMERGENCY TREATMENT

Ptrs AT Hoiv^ Worried 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

THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINICS

,LST IN pet,

^It

Caring for your pet's welfare and all his medical, surgical, nutritional and behavioural needs. Specialised skin and dental clinics, nurses clinics, home visits. 24 hour emergency service North West Swindon, 62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am - 6.30pm Saturday 9.00am - 11.00am

Telephone: 01793 526780

MORTGAGE SERVICES Serving the community since 1987

Mansfield Begbie Associates

Mansfield Begbie Associates would like to congratulate The Link magazine on its twentieth anniversary LAFV_ ____

4IORTGAGE FO* .

P -INIUM?jJ

With nearly 12 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, you can be sure of an excellent service from Mansfield Begbie Associates 4.65% (APR 5.0%) for two years (variable)

5.95% (APR 6.3%) to 1/1/2002

"ed rates

For example, £50; 000 would cost £182.22 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 3.05% for the two years. (Maximum loan to value 90%). No arrangement fee. No MIGP. For example, £50;000 would cost £233.05 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a capped rate of 5.95% (APR 6.3%) to 1/1/2002. (Maximum loan to value 85%) For example, 3 years fixed rate at 5.8% (APR 6.1%) to 31/12/2001 (with £500 cashback) and 1 0 year fixed rate 6.5% (APR 6.8%). (Maximum loan to value 90%) RE-MORTGAGE SPECIAL A fixed rate of 6.14% (APR 6.35%) to 1/1/2004. (Maximum loan to value: 95%)

.T.

You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK.

For free advice and further information, call us now on

Swindon 772779 "Representative only of CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'. Registered with the Mortgage Code Register of Intermediaries: No. 5151731 • Consumer Credit Licence: No. 222123 Credit broker tees of up to 1% on the advance maybe charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied Is 4.65% (5.0% APR) for two years. APR Is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subject to status. Subject to our current lending criteria. A 3.05% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 7,7%. Those applicants benefiting from lids special discount who redeem their mortgage within five years from the date of completion will be charged an additional six months interest. This charge will be reimbursed Ito new mortgage Is than taken out with the Society. Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 30 April 1999 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tax of £182.12. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £127,275 Calculated to InUUde valuation foe £155. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan £150,000. The rate applies to bans up to and including 95% of the purchase price or valuation, wtchever Is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable for two years, after which the then current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This Is usually In the form ate Risk Charge.

The Link Magazine • January 1999

Make fire safety a New Years resolution SOLUTION Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

TREE SURVEY NO DEPOSIT Work it out for yourself 20' fascia board fitted £ 50 20' fascia & gutter fitted £115 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £175 20' fascia & soffit £110 (prices correct at time of publication)

How many people have made a New Year's resolution, asks Shaun Dunham of Westlea fire station? Or perhaps you just can't think we can look back with pride at sion, we now have a five minute of one. As a suggestion why not achievements, we must also look slot on the Local Channel every buy a smoke alarm? You know, forward to the new millennium hour every day which enables us that insignificant little thing thing and how we can maintain our pro- to convey our safety messages. To help us professionally collate that you know you should buy, fessionalism. In the past we have prided our- information and produce leaflets, but never get round to. It costs about £5, not bad for selves on how busy we have been two local companies have kindly something that can help save your with fires. But thinking has donated computer equipment to life. If you've already got one then changed: if we are busy then it Westlea Fire Station. Lucent Techhow about replacing the battery? means people are making mistakes. nologies have given us a computer As a brigade it's our responsibil- As a brigade we must find ways to system and Intel a printer. Our thanks for their generosity. ity to make sure that these mes- get the safety message across. Fire safety initiatives are startsages get across to the public. You. At a time when the Wiltshire ing up all over the county, particu- Here is a brief run down on the Brigade is in its fiftieth year and larly in Swindon and for us to be total number of incidents we atsuccessful you too must play your tended during 1998 part. Please take the extra time Stand by calls: 21 needed to buy a smoke alarm, make Road Traffic Accidents and COOPERS CHEMIST a fire plan, turn off unwanted ap- non-fire related incidents: 255 WEST SWINDON CENTRE pliances. It might just save a life. Fires: 253 Thanks to Comtel cable televi- False alarms: 343 Fine fragrances,

toiletries, ear piercing etc. APS, developing & printing

Trauma teddies make Wiltshire Brigade debut Recently Westlea Fire Station became the first fire station in Wiltshire to utilise the trauma teddy.

One free 35mm 24 exp film with every 35mm roll developed on the premises

For a free quote

Tel: 872033 Open 7 days a week Mon - Fri Sam - 8pm, Sat 9am - 6pm, Sun 1 Oam - 3pm

Choice Office Furniture New and used office furniture From Swindon's largest CHOICE! Posing with the Westlea Trauma Teddies, from left, Leading Firefighter Neil Chamberlain's three boys, Daniel, 7, Sam, 5, Tom, 9

**JUST IN!** COMPUTER WORKSTATIONS From

only

plus vat @ 17.5% * Five year guarantee `= * Made in the UK ° * On show now! * Huge Stocks of Project Furniture * Ergonomic seating ranges for all budgets * Massive Choice of New Systems Furniture * New and used filing cabinets and cupboards

* Choice of models and finishes * CHOICE OFFICE FURNITURE Unit 22 BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon Tel: 01793 521212 Fax: 01793 521212 Fax: 01793 534410 Open Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday morning 9am - 1.00pm

This child's toy has become the latest addition in our efforts to reduce the trauma suffered by children unfortunately affected by incidents we have to attend. Group 1 from Westlea were recently called to a road traffic accident where a brother and sister were involved. Both children had suffered minor injuries and were very anxious about the condition of their mother. Ask any fire fighter what is the worst type of incident to cope with. Every single one will say 'where

children are involved and in pain.' We, as firemen are perceived as being rough, macho, unmoved by anything ... how wrong that picture is. When these children were presented with a teddy bear each it was as if they were reunited with their favourite toy. The look on their faces would have melted the hardest of hearts. It's on those days that you can walk away and feel proud of what you do. Our thanks go the Highworth Lions for providing the teddies.

New group for victims of sex attack Positive Steps - a support group for women who have been raped or sexually assaulted as adults - starts a new group in January. The group run by Victim Support Wiltshire offers women an opportunity to meet others who have had similar experiences. It gives women the chance to discuss their fears and problems. It also provides a confidential source of support and understanding. To find out about joining, contact the Victim Support office on (01380) 729476, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Or telephone the Rape Support Helpline on Swindon 541144, Tuesday and Thursday 7pm to 10pm, and Sunday 2pm to 6pm.

Keep Fit & Look Good in 99 Make your resolutions now, ready for the millennium The season of total excess is over for another year. How many of you have resolved to shed those extra pounds, tone up the flab, shape up those sagging muscles and take a brighter outlook. And there's an even greater in- old ways. A few weeks later, you're no centive to do it this year. Do youwanttobereadytoparty better off, just as miserable and in less than twelve months time? looking for another weight loss Well now's the time to get a diet, regime. Healthy eating and exercise fitness and beauty programme organised, because welcoming Year should go hand in hand. And there 2000 is just going to be a monster are lots of people who will help you focus on fitness and a healthy celebration. You want to look your best for it, lifestyle. There are many others who will or at least be fit enough to survive the hype which will be whipped enhance your looks, relieve the stress in life, and give you the conup as the big date draws nearer. However, getting into fitness can fidence to look good. Over the next five pages, there be hard going at first. Dieting on its own is not going to reduce your are lots of opportunities to get fit weight. It can actually result in andlookgood,whetherit'sanaeroweight gain as your body says, bics or martial arts class, a diet 'hey, I'm being starved, so I'd bet- club or a combination, you will ter make better use of the food I'm find them here. And there are many advertisers getting.' You wonder why you're not los- offering beauty therapies, nail iming the pounds, you get a bit dis- provement or items for sale. Make this year a look good one. heartened, then slip back into the

TALK OF THE TOWN

Hairdressing Salon Expanded and modernised with the highest trained stylists using the finest products PRUL Mll-CHELL. LUXURY HAIR CARE

fLLA

PREMIER SALON

[T1

Tel: (01793) 528678

Solarium

IMU Over

Join a beginners class o SUNDAY 17th

Our Solarium is one of the finest in the West of England. It has fourteen of the very latest and most efficient professional sunbeds b available in the world today. We are open seven days a week, five late nights until 9pm. Prices: Half hour fast bed 14 • Half hour super bed £5.50

Tel: (01793) 522550

MONDAY 18TH JANUARY 73Opm Trax Fitness Centre (By the Railway Station)

Call Sarah on OSLd 303654

Beauty Salon I.H.B.0 With all the latest and most advanced equipment, our fully qualified beauticians will make your visit an enjoyable occasion. Treatments include half leg wax £8.50 Look years younger with the new Dermalift facial, a non-surgical face lift. Special offer £15

Keep Fit & Look Good with The Link

We help a reader power to top spot Ten months ago Steven Preedy, 15, was reading The Link at home in Abbey Meads when he saw an advertisement

I' "COME AND IMPROVE YOUR SHAPE, f'ITNCSS & CONFIDENCE. WORKOUT TO KICKING DANCE SOUNDZ WITH MODERN HI/LO AEROBICS 7

'. Y

for a beginners

, tRO L ;CS BO

Tae Kwon-Do class at the Haydon Centre run by Sarah Nash. Steven went along and was hooked by the end of the first lesson. On 29 November, he entered the your first tournament is a great British Championships and achievement, especially when it is stormed to victory in the under 16 the British Championships." sparring category. And The Link is really glad to Naturally Sarah is delighted have put you both in touch. Well with his performance. "To win done Steven.

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Simply Physical - basic hi/lo Aerobics with plenty of floorwork.

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Classes £3.00 provided

h i / to Aerobic workout to finish of the week.

Please bring your own water Wear comfo rt able clothes and suitable

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New fat burning workout Recently returned from the USA, Leigh Childs from Shaw has brought with him a dynamic aerobic exercise programme, Te-Geri Described as 'the best cardio workout' available, Te-Geri burns up 800 calories an hour compared with 500 from an ordinary aerobics session. Te-Geri is strictly non-contact, but uses karate kicks and punches from boxing in a high energy and explosive combination to waste excess fat quickly. Leigh says, "your whole body will quickly become leaner, your mind will be sharper and your confidence will grow. TeGeri gets fantastic results." To find out more call Leigh at his martial arts academy, see below.

H TH E USUAL

! iMMI?

NEW ' STRAIGHT FROM THE USA The Triple Fat Burning Workout Te Geri is the new high energy, explosive, exciting and motivating workout. It's the non-contact kickboxing aerobic programme with the kicks of karate and the punches from boxing. Brand new class starts for the first time in Swindon on Tuesday 12th January 1999 Don't miss this unique opportunity to become one of the first members

I can personally guarantee that Te-Geri will give you the results you've always wanted. From shoulders to calves you will become leaner and stronger. You'll tighten tone and firm your body while increasing your confidence. Te-Geri is for everyone - for those who want to get in shape to those looking for the ultimate aerobic workout! Leigh Childs, Five Time British Champ, 4th Degree Black Belt

LEIGH CHILDS

KICKBOXING FITNESS

Keep Fit & Look Good in 99 So, what's your excuse then? We all have lots of reasons why regular exercise should be put off. The secret is to make it a way of life. Write 'exercise' in the diary, in big letters on the fridge, on postits at work. It's an appointment to to improve your figure and your fitness and energy levels, and believe it or not, to have fun.

DIAMOND

AEROBICS Exercis y ` Classes £3 pre t i ion F

,r re sh ' Comunity Centre Wor9ey Road, Freshbrook

//Monday

9.3 Sam - 10.30am Thurs 9. 3 am-

Aee cre ffe requires pr booking R q alified irl5 Actor Plea$^contact Mandy," Jenkins

01793 871493

The well established Bodies by Design classes at Greendown School and Holy Trinity Church, Shaw, are good places to go for a work out. Whatever the level you're at, there is a session for you. Mandy Jenkins from Grange Park runs Diamond Aerobics classes at Freshbrook School, and they are ideal for the person looking for the small, personal classes. If you want help with weight loss, Slimming World is a well established organisation with a good reputation in helping clients reach their targets. There are several classes in West Swindon and Haydon Wick. Cambridge Diet offers a well tried range of food supplements and advice. The Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Club is offering a big incentive to look good with a Caribbean Connections competition on offer to members. Wendy Cole from Sparcells can tell you all about it.

Looking good is all important as well. Jo Young from Shaw has just become a Virgin Vie representative and is offering make-over sessions in your own home, if you invite some friends round for a party. Optimum Beauty can cater for all your hair removal, tinting, manicure and pedicure needs, for special occasions or just when you need pampering. And so that you always look your best, how about some work on your nails? Whether it's a maintenance manicure, or something outrageous, call our advertisers today.

YOUR NEAREST CLASS

W081D

Monday: 5.45pm & 8.00pm Nicole, 613923 St John's Church, Haydon Wick. Tuesday: 9.30am Jenny, 613423 Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Tuesday: 7.00pm Greendown Community School, Grange Park. Pat, 741021 Thursday: 7.00pm St John's Church. Haydon Wick. Nicole, 613923 Thursday: 7.00pm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Rd. Jenny, 613423

Advertisements in The Link work Find

out more by calling (01793) 872531

HYSLOP & LEIGHTON OPTICIANS

Would you like a complimentary facial or make-up lesson without leaving your home? Invite your friends round for two action packed hours Enjoy a complimentary facial or make-over Find how to best look after your skin Learn trade secrets from the experts Receive a beautiful free gift To book your class, call

Jo You ng on 01793 876673

Sin and Slim! Luxu ri ous Chocolate Velvet - the ready to d ri nk Camb ri dge Diet.

Tempted? 'Phone your Cambridge Diet Counsellor on 873201

(Optimum Beauty Tel: Claire, 01793 872142 Waxing/sugaring Manicure/pedicure Wedding/evening makeup Eyelash/brow tinting Facials I. H.B.C. / C.I.B.T. Z ualified Therapist

New Year! New Nails!

Beautiful, s and natural

Nail Exte sio s 125.0 Infills Wraps Nail breaks Manicure Nail art from

Airbrushing

£15

• Manicures • Natural nail overlay • Silk wrap • Nail extensions Rebalancing/maintenance • Nail art inc pendants

• 10 £5

Tel: 01793 702909 Mobile 07887 510409

Call Elegant Touch Rachael Allen Qualified mobile nail technician

Tel: 01793 875136 Mobile: 07801 071602

Shape up for a dream holiday! Shape up and slim down by combining a sensible low-fat eating plan with exercise Classes in West Swindon and Wootton Basse tt Contact Wendy on (01793) 877750 Membership fee £5.80 Class fee £4.15 Exercise-only £3.25 (no membership fee) Booking advisable i *See your local Club for full details. Entry for members only Closing date: - April 15th 1999 - 'l

FEELING PINE IN 99 MAKEA RESOLUTION 1t1!c3 BYDESIGNLTD.

TOGET FIT & STAY FIT WITH US

Established 1989 Swindon's longest n serving independen e ent fit organisation

WHERE AND WHEN TO FIND A BODIES CLASS MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

Lee's Low Impact Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre 7pm to 8pm

Beginners with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7pm to 8pm

Carol's Body Blitz Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre. 8pm to 9pm

Carol's Body Blitz Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 8pm to 9pm

Lorna's Lower Body Workout Bradon Forest School, Purton 6.30pm to 7.30pm

TUESDAY Lorna's Lower Body Workout Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm The Total Body Workout with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7.30pm to 8.30pm

Beginners with Lee Li me Kiln Sports Centre, Wootton Bassett. 8.15pm to 9pm Price: £3.30 includes FREE SWIM

THURSDAY Lorna's Lower Body Workout Kingsdown School, Stratton St Margaret 7pm to 8pm

SUNDAY Carol's Body Blitz Gym, Greendown School, Grange Park. 1 0am to 1 1 am

FRIDAY

Complete Body Workout The Total Body Workout with Carol Gym, Greendown School, with Lee Grange Park Gym, Greendown 6.30pm to 7.30pm School, Grange Park. 6.30pm to 7.30pm LACK MOTIVATION?

• All classes £3.50*

POST NATAL? RECOVERING FROM INJURY? OVERWEIGHT? TOO SHY?

• Students, Gold Card & OAPs- half price at all classes * • Reductions for pre-payment Bodies by Designn membership card *Excluding Lime Kiln

Getfitin the privacy ofyour own home with some personal training. Lee, Carol, Sarah and Lorna will help you achieve your weight loss and fitness goals

Keep Fit & Look Good in 99 Repair and release the energy within Feeling good is also about body maintenance. And on this page there are several practitioners who can assist. Sarah Creighton is a West Swindon based aromatherapist who can help improve health and well being using essential oils. Bare Essentials offers body and facial massages and hai: removal treatments, whilst Body and Soul at Wootton Bassett can sell you all manner of aromatherapy oils and products to help you take the strain. Pop in for sale bargains in early January.

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapist & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP

Chartered Physiotherapist Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 556703 60 High Street Wootton Bassett

Also in Bassett is the physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic run by Lesley Catling who can deal with muscular damage. Firm foundations are so important and the right treatment is crucial. Chiropodists Martin Drew and Angela Cracknell are the people to visit for foot care.

l Fl

Experience the wonders of Reiki energy 1 hour of relaxation, normal price: &20. Introductory offer, only 55

Book your appointment with Ma rt in Drew MBcHA, MSSch

CHIROPODIST

for stress/depression/back pain

F.J. Taylor, Reiki M aster

Tel: (01793) 849914

Backache, neck and shoulder

pain can be the source of headache and migraines. Sandra Davies runs the Shaw Chiropractic Clinic, and offers free checks to establish what the problems might be. She has been joined by Hazel Andrews, who offers acupuncture, aromatherapy and massage. She treats a wide variety of conditions ranging from migraine, skin conditions, digestive disorders, back pain, sciatica and joint pain as well as symptoms such as chronic tiredness, anxiety and depression. Fred Taylor practices Reiki, an eastern form of treatment for relieving stress and depression, releasing energy which has been trapped by debilitating symptoms. Chris Deller can offer advice on healthy diet programmes. See his advertisement below.

(ray - key)

or 07775 932984 Reiki training available at all levels

Children's verruca surge ry open. All other aspects of foot care I catered for. Call free anytime on 0800 731 6879 Home visit service or come to our modem town centre surgery

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA ' ' ,,

Home visits by appointment Telephone: 01793 613334

ore

Answermachine - all calls returned

feet?

BACK PAIN Excellent for relieving your stress and tension

If you are suffering from: 0 Backache, Leg pain 0 Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain CchecRs O Headache

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$it,5

0 Whiplash You should consider consulting a Chiropractor

Hair removal by sugaring (waxing also available) Manicures • Pedicures • Facials Body massage • Facial massage, etc.

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. Shaw Chiropractic Clinic Shaw Village Centre

For details, contact Marlene Smith RN, IHBC, NVQ, BABTAC on 01793 432830 (24 hr answering service) j^ ONE WEEK SALE R STARTS

^9JAN

&1_1

Member of the British Chiropractic Association

Soul

(01793) 875547

Serious wei • No clubs • No exercise

Pure essential oils • Aromatherapy boxes and books Trade prices on oils for therapists and NVQ students (proof required) New range of music for massage, relaxation and meditation

loss

• No calorie counting • No joining fee

Established worldwide company supplying the healthiest diet programmes available today

Silver jewellery - including body candles • Incense sticks, cones & smudge • Oil burners • Crystals • Wind chimes

Hand made and painted glass • Dream catchers Lava lamps • Inflatable chairs

Call Sarah Creighton M.I.C.H.T.

Tel: (01793) 887801

THE AROMATHERAPY SHOP

Tarot cards and books

A bene fi cial treatment using essential oils to improve your health and wellbeing

0 Sciatica 0 Sports Injury

Targeted health and beauty products also available

Please

do come

Ring 01793 497560

8, bro w

Ado available

127 High Street, Wootton Bassett • Tel: (01793) 849111 I

Huge savings on phone bills, mobile 'phones and personal numbers

The Link Magazine • January 1999

Advertiser takes up the challenge A father from Abbey Meads is tackling the Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for SCOPE following his son's diagnosis with cerebral palsy. Three Peaks Challenge on 27 June, Trevor Whittle and his wife, Elaine, were devastated to be told Connor's first birthday. This involves climbing Britain's that seven-week-old Connor had been born with the condition. Over highest peaks, Snowdon, Ben Nethe last three months, with supvis and Scarf ell, in 24 hours. Joinport from family and friends, as ing Trevor will be his neighbour well as from SCOPE's helpline, Russell McBride, who is Connor's they have begun to come to terms godfather. with what this will mean. Already "The challenge is not an easy they realise how truly special one," says Trevor, "but nor is copConnor is. 'S ing and living with cerebral palsy." Now Trevor's company, Link "It costs £250 a year for SCOPE advertiser, Spillers Furnishing, is to support a family. We are hoporganising a fundraising appeal * ing to raise at least £3,000, which for SCOPE, culminating in the will make a real difference to 12 local families." All money raised by the appeal will be presented to SCOPE once r the challenge has been ta Taking up the challenge for Connor, To make a donation,, contact from left Russell McBride, Elaine and Trevor or colleague Peter Hazell at Trevor Whittle Spillers Furnishing on 522329. Assisting you in your own home

ONE2ONE

Personal care Escorting Housework + Bathing + Shopping Gardening Inspected by Social Services

Edna A Phelps 72 High Street, Wootton Basstett SN4 7AR

Telephone: (01793) 850600

Huge reductions throughout the store

1111 II1AIF Large reductions on all special orders including

Parker Knoll, G Plan, Nathan, La-Z-Boy, Strongbow, Myers Beds, to name but a few.

Your old furniture disposed of if required. All major credit cards accepted.

Come and talk to the family run business that really cares!!

SPILLERS FURNISHINGS

FREE DEUVERY

The future of Swindon's Well Woman Centre remains uncertain with no funding yet secured for 1999/2000 to cover running costs. A doctor, clinic manager and nurses are supplied by East Wilts National Health Service. But £30,000 a year, slashed in the Swindon Council's budgetary cuts, is needed to keep the centre open. Based at the Health Hydro, the Well Woman Centre encourages women to be responsible for their own health and wellbeing. They are looking to employers to help out because healthy employees will be more productive. Whether as an individual or representing a local company, if you can help with a donation, support the centre's charity shop or volunteer please contact Sandra on 511064.

Marathon runners needed Two charities are lookingforpeople willing to run for them in April's London marathon. SCOPE has 150 places for runners to raise funds for children and adults with cerebral palsy. For more information and an entry pack, call 0500 575 222. Age Concern Swindon is asking for runners with a place to support them. Call Jo Osorio on 692166.

SPIELERS

Woman's health centre under threat

ESTABLISHED 1843

At the cutting edge of technology A golden Labrador named Tuppence belonging to Sue Mead stole the show at the Swindon 'Volunteering Oscars' in November. Sue, who lives in Nine Elms, was nominated for an award for the work she does with the blind. She herself was diagnosed as having creeping glaucoma at the age of 10. By the time she was 17 she was blind. Tuppence is Sue's fourth guide dog. Initially she was too scared of dogs to consider the possibility. But at 25 she went for her first 3 week training session to the Exeter Guide Dog Training Centre and has not looked back since. She now gives much time and energy to The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, talking to groups and fundraising. Sue says, "guide dogs give companionship, confidence and independence. They also break the ice with strangers in a way a white stick doesn't." However she is keen to dispel the myth that you can just tell the dog where you want to go. Once, when she was lost in London and asked someone the way, they knelt down to give the dog directions. This is a common experience. Since 1991, Sue has also been putting together an audio magazine, 'The Whistler', for blind and partially sighted computer users. Sponsored by Dolphin Computer Access Ltd, the quarterly magazine has a circulation of over 400. Essentially it involves blind people talking to other blind people about specific information relating to blind computer use. This follows on from an earlier involvement with another, general audio magazine the 'Two Town Talker', for which Sue still does

occasional articles. As a result of her work on both magazines, Sue and husband Pete are currently testing a computer programme that will enable her to edit an audio publication digitally on her computer. Sue also tests Dolphin's products. They produce a voice system using an external synthesiser (named 'Hal' after the computer in '2001- A Space Odyssey') which allows a blind or partially sighted person to use standard Windows packages. 'Cicero' enables Sue to 'read' her own letters - or even The Link. A printed document is scanned and the computer 'reads' it to her. Alongside her voluntary activities, Sue is employed by the Borough of Swindon's Education Department to run a database. In her leisure time she enjoys television, theatre and cinema. Despite her initial fear, Sue is adamant that having a guide dog was what provided her with a key to the rich variety of her existence.

Helpline to get you talking If the guidelines for a smooth Christmas given by Relate in the December Link did not work for you, calling a helpline might. Supported by Candis, the best selling family magazine, Relate Swindon offers the opportunity to talk with its professional counsellors by phone. The Relate/Candis Help Line can provide callers with their first experience of talking to a trained counsellor and a variety of issues are often raised. Although Relate's main service is relationship counselling, counsellors are trained to help other situations too. They are also able to suggest other agencies that could be approached. This facility has been open to readers of Candis for some time, but is now extended to people living in this area. Calls to the line have included problems with teenagers, especially in step-families, people thinking about leaving long term relationships and how to cope with discovering a partner is having an affair. The helpline can be used by people self-conscious about attending the centre or who wish to remain anonymous. It can also be used by people in more rural areas where transport is a problem. Sometimes it can offer an instant response in a crisis situation.

Centre Manager Christine Gill is delighted that this service in now more widely available. "We know from our records that over 90% of callers who have contracted us on the Relate/Candis Help Line have valued the help they have been

given. We now look forward to being able to offer this means of support locally, in addition to our other services. Relate/Candis Help Line 0990 133236 Tuesdays 2pm - 8pm (calls charged at national rate)

Intro to counsellor training Relate Swindon is offering training to people interested in becoming a couples counsellor. They are holding information sessions on Wednesday 13 January, 7pm to 9pm and Thursday 14 January, 1pm to 3pm. For further details, contact Relate on 527644. New depression & anxiety suppo rt group A new self-help group has been set up to provide support for people suffering from depression and anxiety. For details, call Focus on Carers & Self Help on 531133.

Busker brings joy to PMH kids Keen guitar player Chris Butcher handed over the proceeds of his busking activities to the children's unit at PMH on 14 December. Formerly of Haydon Wick and now living at the Bolingbroke Arms Restaurant in Hook, twelve year old Chris has raised £234 from customer donations since midJuly. This was enough to pay for a playstation and a television. He raised a similar amount in the first half of the year busking in the town centre which bought a Nintendo and a TV. PMH patient Lorien Bard well, 10, He is now planning other receives the donation from Chris fundraising activities.

ne • Janua ry 1999

The Link

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

What is the meaning of life in North Swindon? An Alpha course is a good way of finding out more about being a Christian in today's world. The Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads, will be starting one in J an uary. A introductory video followed by supper takes place on Friday 8 January, 7.30pm in the community centre. This is a no commitments chance to find out more before the course and to ask all those awkward questions you've always had in your mind. For details, call Deaconess Maureen Spinks on 706558.

What is the purpose of life? Why are we here? What happens after death? Why is there so much suffering in the world? Life's greatest questions explored by members of the Baha'i Faith. For further information please call 01793 873684/873877 The Baha'i faith is the second most widespread religion in the world and is working towards universal peace and harmony

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Youth do Alpha On 22 November, sixteen young people and six leaders huddled against the cold on the top deck of Swindon Youth for Christ double decker bus parked at the Oasis Leisure Centre, writes Kevin Anderson. The youngsters were taking part the adult version of Alpha, this in the Youth Alpha course run by took the form of an awayday. Sandwiched between presentaWestlea church, for 11 to 15 year olds from the West Swindon and tions were two activity sessions where members could opt for badLydiards parish. The frosty morning temperature minton, table tennis, swimming, soon thawed as everyone enjoyed unihoc or expressive crafts. The course finished before the imaginative and lively talks, discussions and activities. Thebus Christmas; everyone involved had is equipped with video, music and a thoroughly enjoyable and somerefreshments and provided an in- times challenging time. This age is teresting and adventurous venue. often ignored or misunderstood Starting in September the course and it is rewarding to have worked had reached the se ri es of three pres- with a group who have been so entations on the Holy Spirit. Like enthusiastic and interested.

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw-10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am,10:30am Revd Mn Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

N o' gD

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The Link Magazine • Januar y 1999

Search for six generations in the GWR After reading The Link's account of the GWR first worker in December, Frances Wakeley from Greenmeadow contacted us to ask for help. She and her son Stuart have spent the last 4 months searching for information about relatives who worked in the railway. Some sixteen members of her family worked for GWR, from as early back as the 1840's and Frances has nominated some of them to the Heritage Centre Wall of Names. So far she has traced as far back as her great-great grandfather

Edwin Thomas Brittain. He was born in 1830 and spent 30 years as foreman in R Shop Locomotive Department. He was married to

Louisa, had five children and lived at 39 Wellington Street, situated opposite the Railway station, but now demolished. Edwin died in 1895 and was buried in Radnor Street Cemetery. An obelisk stands in his memory, one side of which reads 'erected by present and past employees and personal friends as a token of affectionate esteem.' Frances Wakeley with her 22 month grand-daughter Kiara

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"I'm particularly interested to find out what he did before he was foreman," said Frances. "We think he originated from Glouc tershire, but I don't knot where he worked or who with. He may not even have been in the railways. It may be that this man goes back almost to the start of

He had five daughters, one of whom Grace, was Frances's grandmother. T t is also known Thomas Twin had two brothers ind two sisters. It is rumoured one them, Grace married an M Tyler who was'someone important' in GWR. GWR." Frances herself was Frances is also very employed in the works keen to learn more about from 1957 to 1965. She her great grandfather Th_ ater returned to work in mas Edwin Brittain, pictured. He finance for five years before was born in 1853 and lived in Villett being made redundant. In addiStreet, Swindon. Frances does not tion her son, daughter-in-law, faknow when he started in the rail- ther, three uncles, grandfather, step ways, although she thinks he may great grandfather and other memhave been an engine fitter in R bers of the family have all been Shop. employed at some time by GWR. In 1883 he was seconded to build Frances and Stuart plan to visit railways in South Africa. He sailed St Catherine's House, London in on the United Companies new an attempt to search for more insteamer, The Arab, and landed at formation. "I would be grateful if Algoa Bay, near Simonstown anybody has any ideas about tracwhere he became a member of the ing family history, or of anyone Phoenix Lodge of Freemasons. doing similar research that can On a shooting expedition in the help." She said. swamps he caught black water Meanwhile if any details here fever. He was sent home and died have jogged your memory, or you of consumption aged 37. He too is can help in an y way, please conburied in Radnor Street cemetery. tact The Link, address on page 3.

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Dentaid gets Brook Field boost t>4 Children and parents at Brook Field School responded to the publicity for Dentaid last month by donating part of the collection made at their eight Christmas concerts. Dentaid is the world's only dedi- services are basic. The concert collections raised cated dental charity, assisting poorer countries with equipment, £300 for Swindon children's cantechnicians, training and dentists. cer charity CALM, which Brook Headteacher Roger Nicholas Field supports every year, and said the school was moved to make £142.60 for Dentaid. a donation after reading in The Link Clean teeth and brushes. Brook Field about the conditions people have children with administrator Sue to suffer in countries where dental Drayton and ESA Zoe Stanton

Bradon Forest redevelops Bradon Forest School launched a £1 million building programme in December. Construction is being carried out New facilities will include a library learning centre, three pur- by EW Beard who built the origipose built information technology nal school in 1963. Since then, rooms, two science laboratories, a Bradon Forest has grown from 390 new drama studio and two new to over 1000 students. music rooms. Existing accommo- Headteacher Chris Montacute, right, dation will also be refurbished and with chair of governors Francis Young computers throughout the school will be networked. Headteacher Chris Montacute expressed his delight at the start of building. "It will provide the stateof-the-art accommodation we require to fulfil our plans to be a school at the forefront of education provision. The school aims to challenge and inspire students. The new facilities will certainly help them achieve these aim."

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!l New computer for Christmas? Connected to the Internet for the first time and wondering where to start? Why not use The Link's web site to learn your way around? When you open your internet viewer , i.e. Netscape or Internet Explorer, it will dial up and connect to your provider. A start page will load. You will have a line! box (normally at the top of your screen) which begins with

http: \ www. Now add swindonlink.com and you'll be surfing to Swindon. When the site appears on youir screen, you will find a front page full of news, events and messages. If you move your mouse around, you will see it change to a pointing hand. Wherever this happens, if you click on that item, it will link you to another page of information or web site. For example, clicking on one of the pictures at the top of the page will take you to the accompanying article. Blue, underlined text (called hypertext) always leads to a link. So, from the top left-hand corner of the front page, you could find out about local restaurants, scour the free small ads., or tap into a list of site features. Sometimes, as in the case of the voluntary organisations directory, you will need to step through a

number of layers. If you choose this option, you will see a list of categories. To open a category, click the blue triangle. You can then click onto one of the listed groups for their specific information. To get back to the front page, sometimes you will find a link at the bottom of the page you are on. At others, you will need to use the 'back' button on your toolbar as many times as required to take you back to where you want to be. Other site features include a selection of past articles from The Link. What's more, there are lots of bright colour photographs there. Have a look: some may feature you or your children. There's also a local 5 day weather forecast, and a chat room. And, to link to a wide range of other useful sites, you can scroll down to the bottom of our front page and click onto 'Other Links'. Before you know it, you'll be surfing. Do let us know what you think of the site and how it can be improved. Send your comments, or just a 'hi' by e-mail to linkmagazine@compuserve.com In previous Links we have published e-mail from people around the world. If you want to make contact with somebody online, let us know and we'll put your message on the site free of charge.

Modelling to success Haydon Wick resident, Dave Prior spends hundreds of hours recreating military characters will be at the International Model show at Olympia, from 29 December to 3 January. Dave's hobby is more than making Airfix kits. He specialises in 19th Century military figures and spends a huge amount of time researching to recreate exact details of uniforms and scenery. He uses metal cast models, but achieves uniqueness and authenticity by cutting, filing and carrying out r what he describes as 'spare parts "" Fully trained & insured operators Commercial rates available Dupont Stainshield Protects against spills and dirt Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh

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Dave is hoping to repeat the success he had at last year's exhibition where he beat off 100 competitor win a gold medal for a scene entitled 'The Picnic'. He will be entering two pieces in the Military Modelling class: a mounted figure of Emperor Napoleon 1st and 'No Fool like an Old Fool'. The latter, pictured, was highly commended by the judges at the world's largest military show earlier this year. It depicts an elderly navel officer playing chess with a brigadier. It took months to complete because he could not find the right size columns. This attention to detail means

. ^* Dave works on more than one model at a time. "It is impossible to tell the exact amount I spend on each model. I often have to stop on one until I've completed research or found extra bits." Summing up, Dave, who has a sometimes-stressful job as a front line ambulance technician, said "I find modelling a relaxing hobby, which helps me unwind."

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1999

Clues for murder mystery sought from swindonlink internet site

u pit r Syst ems

Through our swindonlink web site, we have been asked to help piece together information about thu descendants of Swindon Mayor Edwin Jones and murderer Charles Everard Canham. Dan and Kathy Blanchard emailed us from Richmond, Viry#.^_^* ' t a = I^' ginia, to ask if anyone could help with their family history quest. _ '''^^ They told a tragic and tangled tale ¢ ^, of events dating back to the beginping of the century. Kathy's great grandparents were T Charles Everard Canham and ,, Hepzibah (Effie) Clara Davie Canham (nee Davie). They had eleven children, including John Howard Canham, Kathy's grandfather. From photos they appear respectable, even distinguished. Kathy believes that they lived intermittently in Swindon from the Main picture taken about 1890, the future Mayor Swindon Edwin Jones, far mid-1800's. Effie's eldest sister right, wife his wife Mary sitting centre, and her sister Effie, standing right. Mary was married to the Mayor of Inset, Effie and her husband Charles in 1900, just before he murdered her Swindon, Edwin Jones. On 29 November 1900, the ve- children. Kate and sister Florence At the turn of the Century, the family was living in Nottingham, neer of respectability was torn were taken into care in 1908, their where Charles was district man- away when Charles Everard father by this time dead and their ager to the Gresham Assurance Canham battered his wife to death mother dying. Kathy and Dan are trying to loCompany. He was described as 'a with a coal hammer and slit the most devoted father and affection- throat of three year old son, cate any descendants of the Donald. He also tried to gas the Canham, Dickson/Dixon or the ate husband'. rest of his family whilst they slept. Jones families. You can contact them by e-mail Swindon's blind Mayor Charles was sent for trial at NotEdwin Jones, was elected Mayor tingham Assizes. His defence was at DKMJ431@aol.com or write to that the crime was committed un- them at 431 Montour Drive, Richof Swindon in 1920. Llanelli born Alderman Jones der the influence of epileptic ma- mond, Va. 23236, USA. had been an engine fitter with the nia. He was found guilty but crimiGreat Western Works until he was nally insane and sent to blinded by a blow to the eyes Broadmoor. By 1900, the two eldest children from a chip of a steel bolt in 1876. After his accident he opened a had left home. But the remaining business, later turning to postal eight were taken into the care. It work, civic and religious duties was in a National Children's as a prominent figure in the Homes orphanage that John Wesleyan Church. He became a Canham met Kate Lily Dickson or Dixon, Kathy's grandmother. Justice of the Peace in 1916. Strangely, Kate had experienced In August 1921 the blind mayor made histo ry by setting the new similar tragedy in her family. Her press rolling at the Swindon mother, Margaret Freda had set Evening Advertiser following a about her husband, Thomas, with a poker after he attacked one of the large extension to its works.

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The Link Magazine • Janua ry

1999

Super hero boost for slow readers People of the Universe can sleep safely in the New Year with two new super heroes to watch over them.

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Sam and Ben are the creation of Greendown School teacher, Andy Russell, who has recently had his first four books published by Ginn. The science fiction stories follow the adventures of the duo from the first mission, crash landing on an asteroid, through to outwitting Mr Black and Galactic Pirates. Andy, pictured right, got the idea for the stories set in the twenty third century, a couple of years ago whilst playing a computer game. Some authors can claim they can wallpaper a room with rejection letters from publishers, amazingly, Andy was accepted by the first publisher he wrote to. The books are part of the Impact series from Ginn. Andy has written them especially for children who have a low reading age but a high interest level. They are already proving very popular in secondary and primary schools. Other books in the series include humour, teen life and horror. In addition to his very busy role as special needs coordinator at Greendown, Andy has also written a new series with a different storyline and characters, as yet he has had no firm offers to publish so he's trying out some new ideas.

Toys to borrow Swindon's Phoenix Toy Library is now better than ever after moving to new premises at Drove Community Centre, Southampton Street, (near the Magic roundabout). It meets on Friday mornings. Children will find toys to inspire and enthral, whilst parents and carers can enjoy tea and biscuits. At home time, members can rent up to 5 toys from over 300 items at a weekly charge of 20p each. The annual membership is £3 Just drop in to join.

r -------------- -----------I PO TO GROWT E'S MORE I TH THE'

TALLRU

THE TEFXLRSS HELPS GROWTH & DEVELOPS POTENTIAL ... Spring Term starts 9 January 1999

Theatre Express Performing Arts Schools I & Theatre Company, has openings at its I NEW performing arts school, to be based at GREENDOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL, SWINDON Our school runs on Saturdays, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm

Theatre Express is fun! It also helps develop: self-confidence, self-esteem, articulation, imagination, co- ordination, expression, and other important life skills Students aged 5 to 16 years work with experienced tutors in the disciplines of Acting, Singing, & Dance If you would like your child to enjoy exciting weekends, and to have the advantages of developing skills that will aid through life, then contact: Theatre Express for a Prospectus on: Tel/Fax: 01608 - 676024 Or, write to: Theatre Express, P. 0. Box 94, Chipping Norton D. 0., 0X7 3YL. or E-mail us on expressl@globalnet.co.uk

——

-----------.

Comprehensive high quality education And training in the community How to Enrol

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w- By Post: Send a completed enrolment form together with a cheque made payable to Swindon College or credit card details (don't forget to fill in the expiry date) to:

is the free Swindon College brochure with complete details of all part-time courses, including more than one thousand Adult Community Education classes. You can collect one from your local library or community centre, or call the freephone number for a copy.

Postal Enrolments, Swindon College, Regent Circus, Swindon SN1 1 PT Enrolment forms can be found in "Adults Learning", our part time prospectus, copies of which are available from local libraries - By Telephone: Our Credit Card line is available 8:00am to 8:00pm, Monday to Friday. Call Freephone: 0800 731 2250. w- In Person: Call in to Customer Services at Regent Circus or North Star Avenue, Monday to Thursday between 9:00am and 9:00pm, Friday 9:00am to 4:30pm and Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm Full refunds can only be paid on courses that are cancelled. Other refunds are at the discretion of the College.

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Title

Day Time

Length Start

Cost

Code

ART, DESIGN & CRAFTS

Tide

Day Time

Japanese Folded Patchwork

Length Start

Cost

Code

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

06-Mar

£18.00

AGS83N

Mehndi - The Indian Art of Body Painting Sat

10:00-4:00

twk

06-Mar

£18.00

AGS11N

10:00-4:00

1 wk

3D Decoupage - An Introduction Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1wk

27-Feb

£18.00

AFS85N

3D Decoupage for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Mixed Crafts Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

30-Jan

£18.00

AFS74N

Mon

7:00-9:00

5wks

11-Jan

£20.00

AFF21 N

Painting in Oils & Acylics Beg

Wed 7:00-9:00

1 Owks 13-Jan

£40.00

AGG09N

AGP14N

Photography - Beginners Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Thu

7:00-9:00

1 Owks 14-Jan

£40.00

AGH11N

AGP11N

Silk Painting for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00

AFS26N

Silk Painting for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

13-Mar

£18.00

AFS62N

Silverwork & Jewellery - Begs & Imps

Wed 7:00-9:00

1 owks 13-Jan

£40.00

AGG98N

Soft Furnishing & Upholstery Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Fri

10wks 14-Jan

£40.00

AGH24N

Soft Furnishings Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Wed 7:00-9:00

10wks 13-Jan

£40.00

AGH16N

Spring Floral Arrangements

Thu

7:00-9:00

6wks

25-Feb

£24.00

AGG71 N

AFS69N

Stained Glass - Lead & Foil Swindon College Femdale Road

Mon

7:00-9:00

10wks 11-Jan

£40.00

AFF83N

£18.00

AFS60N

Stained Glass - Lead & Foil Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

7:00 . 9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£40.00

AFF81N

Stained Glass - Lead and Foil: an introduction Sat Swindon College Ferndale Road

10:00-4:00

1wk

27-Feb

£18.00

AFS31 N

Art: Painting & Drawing Purton Village Hall Art: Painting & Drawing Bradon Forest School Purton

Mon Thu

10:00-12:00 7:00-9:00

10wks 11-Jan 10wks 14-Jan

£40.00 £40.00

Art: Painting & Drawing

Tue

7:00-9:00

10wks 12-Jan

£40.00

AGG32N

Calligraphy

Wed 7:00-900

10wks 13-Jan

£40.00

AGG80N

Calligraphy - An Introduction Create Your Own Greeting Cards Swindon College Ferndale Road Decorative Finishes for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road Decorative Finishes for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat Sat Sat Sat

Designing & Making Hat Boxes/Caskets Swindon College Ferndale Road Sat

10:00-4:00 10:00-4:00 10:00-4:00 10:00-4:00 10:00-4:00

1 wk 1 wk 1 wk 1 wk twk

06-Mar 30-Jan 30-Jan 13-Mar 13-Mar

£18.00 £18.00 £18.00 £18.00

AGS41 N AFS14N AFS67N

9:30-11:30

Floral Design Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£40.00

AFF02N

Flower Arranging - Beginners Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Mon

9:30-11:30

1 Owks 22-Feb

£40.00

AGH09N

Flower Arranging Advanced Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Stencilling for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1wk

27-Feb

£18.00

AFS27N

Wed 9:30-11:30

1 Owks 24-Feb

£40.00

AGH07N

Trimmings & Bows for Soft Furnishing

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00

AGS22N

Update a Small Item of Furniture

Sat

10:00-4:00

twk

06-Mar

£18.00

AGS09N

AGH08N

Upholstery & Soft Furnishing

Tue

7:00-9:00

1 Owks 12-Jan

£40.00

AGG21 N

AFS73N

Upholstery - Upholster a Small Item of Furniture Sat 10:00-4:00

1 wk

06-Mar

£18.00

AGS12N

Watercolour Painting & Drawing for Absolute Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road Sat 10:00-4:00

twk

27-Feb

£18.00

AFS61N

Flower Arranging Improvers Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Thu

Flower Arranging: Flowers for a Wedding Swindon College Ferndale Road Sat

9:30-11:30 10:00-4:00

10wks 25-Feb 1 wk

13-Mar

£40.00 £18.00

Hats - Millinery for Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£22.00

AFS01N

Introduction to Flower Arranging

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00

AGS40N

Continued overleaf

+- You don't have to enrol in person for a Swindon College course.

34 (kmC

- Full course brochure & enrolment form available at Link Centre Library and other public centres +- Or telephone Freephone 0800 7312250 for an enrolment form. +- All courses take place at Greendown Community School, Grange Park unless indicated otherwise.

Title

Day Time

Length Start

Woodcarving Swindon College Ferndale Road

Wed 7:00-9:00

10wks 13-Jan

Woodcarving - an introduction Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat 10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

Length Start

Title

Day Time

Healing & Self- Healing Part 1

Tue 7:00-9:00

£45.00 AFF94N

Homeopathy in First Aid Situations Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Tue

9:30-11:30

5wks

12-Jan

£18.00 AFS30N

Human Social Behaviour

Sat

10:00-4:00

twk

06-Mar

Hypnotherapy - An Introduction Swindon College Femdale Road

27-Feb

Cost

Code

COMPUTERS

10wks 12-Jan

Sat

10:00-4:00

twk

RSA CLAIT 1

Tue 7:00-9:00

20wks 12-Jan

£40.00 CGG06S

Indian Head Massage - Introduction

Mon

7:00-9:00

5wks

11-Jan

RSA CLAIT 1

Thu 7:00-9:00

20wks 14-Jan

£40.00 CGG23S

Investigating Past Life Regression

Sat

10:00-4:00

1wk

30-Jan

Meditation & Relaxation

Wed 7:00-9:00

1 Owks 13-Jan

Neurolinguistic Programming

Thu

7:00-9:00

6wks

PERFORMANCE ARTS Tue

7:00-9:00

10wks 12-Jan

£40.00 DGG06N

Getting to Know your Camcorder

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

£18.00 DGS03N

Pilates - Body Conditioning Brookfield Primary School

Mon

7:00-8:30

10wks 11-Jan

£18.00 DFS01N

Pilates - Intermediate Brookfield Primary School

Mon

6:00-6:45

10wks 11-Jan

Positive Thinking

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

06-Mar

Reflexology and Healing Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

13-Mar

Reflexology for Family Care

Tue

7:00-9:00

5wks

12-Jan 27-Feb

You Can Sing Too! Brookfield Primary School

Sat Mon

10:00-4:00 7:00-9:00

1 wk

30-Jan 27-Feb

1 Owks 11-Jan

£40.00 DGG02N

FOOD & COOKERY Cookery: French Country Cooking

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

06-Mar

£18.00 FGS34N

Indian Vegetarian Cookery

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00 FGS02N

Wine Tasting Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

13-Mar

£18.00 FFS01N

KEEP FIT & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Self Defence Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

Self Hypnosis for Positive Living

Tue

7:00-9:00

10wks 12-Jan

The Alexander Technique For Sports Enthusiasts Wed 9:30-11:30 Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

5wks

24-Feb

GENERAL INTEREST

Fitness: Tone & Shape Up Oliver Tompkins School Freshbrook

Thu

7:00-8:00

10wks 14-Jan

£20.00

KGV21N

Ladies Keep Fit Haydon Wick Primary School

Mon

7:30-9:00

10wks 11-Jan

£30.00

KGH02N

Bridge - Third Steps Swindon College Ferndale Road

Wed 7:00-9:00

Car Maintenance for Beginners

Wed 7:00-9:00

10wks 13-Jan

Cycle Maintenance - Beginners

Mon

7:00-9:00

10wks 11-Jan

Deaf Awareness - CACDP Certificate Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

7:00-9:00

6wks

28-Jan

LANGUAGES

Deaf Awareness - CACDP Certificate Swindon College Ferndale Road

Tue

12:00-2:00

6wks

26-Jan

EFL - Cambridge First Certificate Swindon College Ferndale Road

Drug Awareness Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

Caring for Family Pets

Sat

10:00-4:00

t wk

30-Jan

Family History - An Introduction Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

09-Jan

Garden Design - Planning & Planting

Mon

7:00-9:00

6wks

11-Jan

LFF91S

Learning through Play Swindon College Ferndale Road

Mon

7:00-9:00

10wks 11-Jan

LFF02S

Lip Reading Swindon College Ferndale Road

Wed 7:00-9:00

10wks 13-Jan

LFF08N

Non-Competitive Games for under 8's Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-1:00

1 wk

Philosophy & Ethics

Thu

7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

Psychic Studies Part 1

Thu

7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

RYA Navigation: Refresher Course Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

Turns, Bums and Thighs Swindon College Ferndale Road

Tue

9:30-10:30

10wks 12-Jan

£20.00

KFF11N

Understanding Horses -2

Tue

7:00-9:00

10wks 12-Jan

£40.00

KGG02N

WedFnl2:00-2:00

15wks 03-Feb

£60.00

LFF04S

EFL - Cambridge NET Swindon College Ferndale Road

WedThu9:30-11:30 15wks 20-Jan

£60.00

LFF99S

EFL - Language Through Literature Swindon College Ferndale Road

Mon

£40.00

LFFOIN

EFL: Business English Cert (BEC) Swindon College Ferndale Road EFL: First Certificate Swindon College Ferndale Road French For Your Holidays Swindon College Ferndale Road

Code

£40.00 PGG18N

14-Jan

Blues Guitar

Working with Your Voice - Workshop Swindon College Ferndale Road

Cost

Tue

9:30-11:30 7:00-9:00

WedFd9:30-11:30 Mon

12:00-2:00

10wks 11-Jan 20wks 12-Jan 15wks 13-Jan 6wks

25-Jan

£60.00 £60.00 £24.00

German For Your Holidays Swindon College Ferndale Road

Tue

12:00-2:00

6wks

26-Jan

£24.00

LFF31 N

Get By In Greek Swindon College Ferndale Road

Tue

12:00-2:00

6wks

03-Feb

£24.00

LFF02N

Greek 4

Thu

7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£40.00

LGG39N

Italian For Your Holidays Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

12:00-2:00

6wks

28-Jan

£24.00

LFF71

Spanish for Your Holiday Swindon College Ferndale Road

Wed

12:00-2:00

6wks

27-Jan

£24.00

LFF68N

PERSONAL, HEALTH & THERAPIES

The Celestine Prophecy - Experiential Guide Wed 7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

13-Mar

27-Feb

10wks 13-Jan

T'AI CHI & YOGA T'ai Chi Gong - Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

5:30-6:30

10wks 14-Jan

£20.00

YFF21N

T'ai Chi Gong - Beginners Westlea School West Swindon

Thu

7:00-8:00

10wks 14-Jan

£20.00

YGV02N

T'ai Chi Gong - Improvers Westlea School West Swindon

Alexander Technique

Thu

7:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£40.00

PGG32N

Aromatherapy for Children

Mon

7:00-9:00

1 Owks 11-Jan

£40.00

PGG68N

Assertiveness Training

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00

PGS39N

Thu

8:00-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£20.00

YGV05N

Blame it on your Hormones

Sat

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan

£18.00

PGS36N

Complementary Therapy & Health Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Yoga - Mixed Ability Haydon Centre Haydon Wick

Mon

9:45-11:15

10wks 11-Jan

£30.00

YGH02N

Wed 9:30-11:30

5wks

13-Jan

£20.00

PGH07N

Complementary Therapy Taster

Sat

1 wk

06-Mar

£18.00

PGS88N

Yoga - Mixed Ability Haydon Leigh Primary School

Tue

7:00-8:30

10wks 12-Jan

£30.00

YGH05N

PFS35N

Yoga - Mixed ability Westlea School West Swindon

Wed 7:30-9:00

10wks 13-Jan

£30.00

YGV26N

UFF42N

Yoga Hatha Beginners Swindon College Femdale Road

Mon

7:30-9:00

10wks 11Jan

£30.00

YFF69N

PGS06N

Yoga Hatha Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

1:15-2:45

10wks 14-Jan

£30.00

YFF64N

PFS40N

Yoga Hatha Beginners Swindon College Ferndale Road

Thu

7:30-9:00

10wks 14-Jan

£30.00

YFF66N

Confidence Building Swindon College Ferndale Road Counselling: an introduction Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat Tue

Eating to your Hearts Content

Sat

Freedom from Failure Swindon College Ferndale Road

Sat

10:00-4:00 10:00-4:00 7:00-9:00

1wk 6wks

10:00-1:00

1 wk

10:00-4:00

1 wk

30-Jan 02-Feb 30-Jan 13-Mar

£18.00 £40.00 £13.00 £18.00

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Making it easier to return to learn Many people are reluctant to return to studying, so New College and the West Swindon Family and Community Project have devised a free course to encourage you to consider the options available and help you make informed decisions about your future. Perhaps one of the following applies to you: fear, meeting strangers, feeling 'stupid' because of lack of formal qualifications, difficulty with travel, meeting older children from school and/or arranging care for pre-schoolers, feeling you are 'too old' to learn, the cost of courses, having to take a final exam.

P'I'I

Improve your job oppo rtunities —join

^.tq^n Tarry

afree course at Pri Computer Training to get some up-to-the-minute computer skiffs. Smaff friendly group, where you can start from scratch or buifif on existing skiffs. Ring 01793 512446 to find out nwre and arrange a visit.

The course called 'Return to

Learn' is divided into three sessions: English and Life Skills at the Family Project house which is located at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, and Information Technology which is held at Green- The Return to Learn group in December, rear from left, Vincey Mazzota, down School. The times are ar- Justine Andrews, Jane Stockwell. Front, Lisa Kinsey, Santa Suryaderra, ranged to enable parents to collect Sarah Barnes, Sharon Bond children from school and a free If you would like a student's For more information, contact creche is provided on the premises Maureen Debbage at New College personal view, telephone the Famfor the under 5's. ily Project on 871303. Adult Education is not like on Swindon 611470. school. You are recognised and Lotte ry produces house purchase grant respected as adults who have a knowledge of life that is not neces- The West Swindon Family Project has received £99,000 from the Nasarily academic. The tutors are tional Lottery to enable the volunteer management committee to buy there to guide and encourage you the four bedroom house from its owners NCH Action for Children. Chairperson Simon Harlow welcomed the grant aid. "This shows to achieve what you want to. The choice is yours and no pressure is people that we are here to stay." Having suffered social services grant applied, but a recognised qualifi- cutbacks, he said the project will be able to direct its resources more closely to its community work. cation is achievable.

Recycle your Christmas Christmas cards received in December could become tomorrow's trees in a recycling scheme organised by the Great Western Community Forest Team. For every 1,000 cards recycled, one tree is to be planted in the forest area. If every person in Swindon recycles 30 cards, 6,000 new trees will be planted and 125 cubic metres of landfill will be saved. Cards can be deposited in special skips at Sainsbury's stores at Bridgemead and Stratton St Margaret between 4 and 31 Janu-

N s PING

LAN

LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board/ Panels/Gates • Block Paving

Patios, Paths, Turfing • Hedging & Mowing

•

Trained team • Fully insured For free quotation

TEED

1 TH YOUR GARDEN? No job too small

Gi,me a c D for a free qu : e. Contact John Wadsworth on Swindon * a1i j-j

7513 17

(Factory for the disabled) FENCING PANELS & TRELLIS CONCRETE OR WOODEN POSTS ALL ACCESSORIES PATIO SLABS & PLANTERS GREENHOUSE STOCKISTS A WIDE VARIETY OF SHEDS & SUMMER HOUSES MADE TO ORDER OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS COMPETITIVE PRICES FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £50 Units 1A & 1B, Gipsy Lane Business Park, Gipsy Lane, Swindon SN2 6DT

Tel: (01793) 526571

ary.

Put the tree to good use Christmas trees can also be recycled if they are taken to the civic dump at Barnfield Road, where they will be shredded and turned into plant mulch. The dump is open between 8am and 8pm throughout the winter, but please do not make a special trip. Load up the car with other recyclable materials - paper, glass, cans. Plant a tree on Valentines Day The Great Western Community Forest is planning another mass tree plant at Shaw Tip on Sunday 14 February. Details will be given next month on how to take part in the 5,000 plant-in.

G4I

Open to people of working age and part-time workers.

Children in schools throughout Swindon have been getting muddy for a good cause, planting trees in their school grounds during National Tree Week, 25 November to 6 December. Heather Lilley, Community Education Officer for the Great Western Community Forest said, "children get so much enjoyment from planting trees - they think it's great fun to get muddy and enjoy taking ownership of the trees." Above: Planters from Oliver Tomkins Junior School who tookpart, front Donna Lewis, Kayla Collier. Rear, Claire Sherwood, Natalia Shand, Kathryn King, Michael Stanley, Richard Eagle

AMI

SKIPS

2,212,3,4,5 yards capacity 5 days given to fill skip

Freephone 0800-387613 Tel: 731610 8am - 8pm

Get your garden fit Mr Rotavator Creative Gardens Landscaping, Patios, Paths & Ponds, Fencing, Clearance & General Maintenance o2

e, dt1c tal

Tel: 01793 - 702076

SERVICE SECTOR

ACCOUNTANCY

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

SAVE £100 PENALTY! Have your 1997/98 SELF ASSESSMENT TAX RETURN filed before 31/1/1999 GRA ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES • Business Start-Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines Tumble Driers Twin Tubs, etc. I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

Free initial meeting Tel/fax:

Repairs to most makes o. 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed No VAT to pay

01793 871790

CARPET CLEANING

CONSERVATORIES CRYSTAL CONSERVATORIES

I COMPUTING

GARY CURTIS CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

HOME COMPUTER TRAINING

0 Furniture moved and replaced on protective pads 0 Trained, professional, fully insured local operator O Satisfaction guaranteed O Stain removal treatment

Flooring, Electrics, Plasterwor all inclusive in our

* Beginner * Intermediate

quotes

plus Computer systems

Also pressure cleaning of walls and patios Car & caravan valeting

and upgrades

Special deals for the New Year

Tel: 01793 700700 or 751061 24hrs answerphone

The Andrews Partnership Tel: (01793) 642245

DECORATOR

DRIVER TRAINING

ggVIN

T R A ^ K O S

rn N

High Quality Painting & Decorating

Interior & Exterior

Ltd.

Awarded Top Three - Times supplement training awards for 1997 Covers the full DSA Syllabus Start before your 17th Birthday Used by many local driving schools

FOR FREE QUOTATIONS, RING

Full 8-10 hours of supervised training that could cost less than a driving lesson

01793 725699

Call us FREE 0800 146 455

ODD JOBS

THE ODD J OB MAN Small building work, carpentry, joinery, painting & decorating, fitted wardrobes and

kitchens, plugs and washers fitted "No job too small" Ve ry reasonable prices Free estimates Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793- 886022

For details, call 01793) 616333 or 434019 after 5pm

To find out more,

SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds

Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters Doubles also available t

ree installation & local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665

anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

LPG & Natural Gas Services

CAR Dennis Brown Gas Engineer

D & H DIXEY BUILDING CONTRACTORS General builders extensions, alterations, plastering and pebbledashing, roofing - flat or pitched PVCu cladding & guttering 10 year guarantee, grant work and insurance claims 30 years experience Tel: 01793 524359 Mobile 0378 912 424

DECORATOR

GK DECORATORS Tel: 01793 701394 Mobile: 0777 5894563 Interior & exterior painting and decorating Ceramic tiling Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

I MAINTENANCE

I GAS REPAIRS

Computerised theo ry training makes learning easier and more ENJOYABLE!

fIi .

BUILDING SERVICES

• Boilers • Fires & fire places

• Cookers • Boiler changes • Also riverboat appliances , Tel: 01793 874742 installation & se rvicing Mobile: 0468 027860 • Aga, Rayburn Sponsor to Wroughton specialist Shotokan Karate Club 29 Meares D ri ve Shaw, Swindon

m5w

PETE R S MULTIFIX

Call the man that can for all your painting & decorating, glazed tiling,kitchen fitting, carpentry, coving, property maintenance Tel: 01793 877859 or 0836 799614

I I TV REPAIRS

WILLIAMS

& VIDEO Specialists in repairs of TVs, videos, satelite, microwaves, audio equipment & in car

hi-fi's. Free estimates 30A COUNTY ROAD, SWINDON

TeI: 01793 423371 Mobile 0976 752073

NORMAN GRAW TV & VIDEO SERVICES

TV, VIDEO & SATELLITE REPAIRS NO CALL OUT CHARGE ALL REPAIRS GUARANTEED

For a local efficient service,

Ring Swindon

643350

The Link Magazine • Januar y 1999

Support for twin town on the way BUILDING SERVICES

Hall & Son Ltd A reputation built on quality Traditional carpentry & building services Kitchens, loft conversions, stairs, doors, building work, bedroom fitments, domestic & commercial works undertaken Free, no obligation quotations

Call 01793 644313 or 0468 271994 188 Cheney Manor Road, Swindon DECORATOR

Professional painter, decorator & ceramic tiler All interior and exterior work undertaken

For free estimates call Paul on or 771628 Make an impact in over 18,000 homes in West & North Swindon with •M<

Swindon people have sent the first£5,000 of a targeted£50,000 to help Nicaraguan twin town Ocotal devastated by Hurri cane Mitch in October. Homes, crops, services, roads and bridges were destroyed, leaving thousands of homeless survivors at risk from disease and epidemics. Swindon Ocotal Link (SOL) immediately launched an appeal to send money for clean water, milk powder, seeds and medicine. Bruce Clarke of SOL expressed his thanks to all the individuals and groups who helped in the run Sending the first £5,000, the Mayor of Swindon coun. Brian Ford, with SOL up to Christmas, but emphasised volunteers, from left, Mary Shaw, Gillian Wallace, Dorothy Clarke, Karen that the appeal will be a long haul. Ma yell To help SOL during 1999, call from a non-uniform day on 18 "We still need to raise money on an ongoing basis," he said. "We're Bruce Clarke on 533338 or Mary December. • SOL is holding a collection outnot far off £10,000 now but are Shaw on 871940. Students at Greendown School side the Swindon Town football aiming to raise £50,000 over the students raised £472 for the appeal match on Saturday 2 January. next year."

Quality chippy wins award

Swindon's expansion

The Trawlerman fish and chip shop at the West Swindon Centre has received a top Quality Award from the Sea Fish Industry Authority. The award is presented to friers One of The Link's early advertiswho meet exacting standards of ers, the Trawlerman now relies quality throughout their business, solely on its reputation to attract from helpful, friendly staff, high custom. But Toothill resident Alan levels of hygiene, to good practice remains an avid Link reader. "Congratulations - I'm looking forward in handling and cooking food. Alan Clark, manager since the to the next 20 years." e 19 3, says shop opened in Jun The Trawlerman is the only takVaway in the Coach Caterers chain to receive the award. "We think we are the only shop in Swindon to be recognised in this way and are really pleased to have reached such a peak of performance." The Trawlerman raised £200 for the widows and children of fishermen lost at sea on National Sea Fish Day on Friday 4 December. Happy fryers, from left, Helen Houghton, assistant manager Chris Court, Lynn Turner, Nina Houston,

Public meeting: 18 Janua ry , 7pm

To advertise in Service Sector,

Swindon South MP Julia Drown will talk about what central government is doing to encourage brownfield development and her position with regard to building pressures on the town. All welcome

SUPERGLIDE WARDROBES m Specizhi e d

MA 6//Z/NE

Broad Green Community Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon

Edna Thorburn

(all (01193) 811181

Seen a photo r^ you want? t Pictures in The Link are taken in colour, even if they appear in black and white. Copies are available at £1.50 for 6" x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." To get a copy(ies), send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD. Specify the month and page the photo

Competition winners

appears on, with brief description, and

Mr & Mrs Warren and Luke of Crawford Close, Freshbrook were the winners of tickets to see Jack and the Beanstalk at the Wyvern

don't forget your name, address and telephone number. Photos will be mailed within two weeks.

Complete * Superb sliding door wardrobes Wardrobes all made to measure in our workshops Iled & Installed 50 gupp * Door panels in laminates, Mom lust £3 IOr .VAl real wood veneers, mirrors lk We can also supply and install: fitted kitchens & bedroom furniture * Over 40 finishes available Call now for * Agents for Hideaway wall beds free estimate

Installed in just one day

on 01793

861584

The Link Magazine • Janua ry 1999

Letters to The Link

Heading north again

Should be sent to address on page 3

Richard Bull from Haydon Wick is joining a six person team to trek across the icy wastes to the Magnetic North Pole in March. Larger than life actor and ex-

Fireworks at Lydiard Park From Linda Helali, Conisborough, Toothill

My husband and I and our two children attended the firework dis- plorer Brian play at Lydiard Park in November. Blessed will 9 The evening started with motor- join them for bike stunt team 'Over The Top', part of the five week, who gave a breathtaking show. The fireworks, large bonfire and 375 mile trip. amusements for the children were One aim is to excellent. We found the evening raise money very good value for money and for the Mitwould recommend this type of en- chemp Trust, which protertainment in the future. vides holidays for disadvantaged children. Expeditions like this cost a fortune to organise and Richard is • same clay service looking for personal sponsorship. • Guaranteed repairs Businesses interested in having • For a friendly, helpful their flag or logo, featured in a service, call J Martin photo' from the North Pole should 1 Alnwick, Toothill call him on 0402 - 021919.

Play t Piano earn to Sing Phone Swindon 695235 for further information uIIIIIIuIIuuIIIuII

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency requires Domestic Cle an ers & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112 EµATIp

s^ Sl FR

BU ,

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388

Hillside Building Services Extensions, loft conversion,

specialists in all types of building & plastering All work full insured Contact Dave on 01793 488470

For Sale Girls bike suit 3-5 in fairly good cond, £20. Futon, double, £50 ono. Professional home hair cutting set, only used once, £5. Tel: 886862 Hauck Apollo pushchair with matching cosytoes, bag, raincover & new wheels, £50. Overhead white sunbed, ti mer etc, £50. Toys, clothes, cheap prices. Tel: 527106 Mothercare folding pushchair & carrycot, red/grey f/r facing, shopping tray, 5pt harness & matching sun canopy, vgc, £40 Tel: 876786 Britax Roc-a-Tot car seat age 0-9 months, only 9 months old, with hood and head hugger, exc cond, £40 ono. Tel: 529555 Britax large navy pram in good cond, £50 ono. Tel: 695285 Dolls cot, pushchair, bouncing cradle, bath and changing mat, various prices. dolls and teddies, £1 each. Big yellow teapot, £6. Mouse house, £4. Tel:

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LaD^3

For Sale Video recorder £50. Broderie Anglaise

moses basket & stand, as new, £20. Bouncy chair, vgc, £10. Sangenic nappy disp unit, £10. Tel: 876518 Motorola A130 mobile phone, 2 batteries, leather phone case & charger, good cond, £75 ono. Tel: 0374 226681 Apple Macintosh Power PC 62000D, 64Mb RAM, 1 Gb hard disc, high res 14 inch monitor, Epson Stylus Colour 600 printer, Umax Astra 1220S, modem, pre-loaded Photoshop 4, Quark 4, plus more, £690ono. Tel: 872282 (day) Apple Macintosh, 630CD 4Mb RAM, 350 hard disc with software, £180ono. Tel: 872282 (day) Computer games for CD Rom incl Auto Route Express and Flight Simulator & 3 others, £40. Tel: 433820 Star LC10 multi font computer printer, £25 ono. Tel: 722158 Multi-media PC complete with SVGA monitor and Hewlett Packard Deskjet 770937 printer, runs Windows 95 and Office 97, Set of Browning irons, 9, vgc, £90, the £350 ono. Tel: 727217 set ono. Tel: 531209 Several computers, different specs, 3 piece suite in exc cond, raspberry different prices, from £50 up. Tel: 0973 colour, £175. Tel: 695436 779551 anytime or 497560 (eves) Light green LPK armchair & footstool Psion series 3C palmtop computer exc cond, £25. Tel: 722158 2MB with PSI mail Internet pack and Headboard, brown, deep buttoned PC serial cable, all boxed as new, velvet style, 4ft 6in, good cond, £12. £100. Tel: 872869 Tel: 876056 3/4 Encore student classic guitar with black case, as new, £15. Tel: 878047 Pine towel rail, 7. Tel: 722158 Three Welsh dressers, hand made Yamaha double keyboard electronic from solid pine by craftsman, 3 shelves organ with stool, hardly used, bargain and 2 cupboards on each, 12 months at £300. Tel: 881499 old, £200 each ono. Tel: 703177 Hamster home, Uncle Sam wheel, Bed settee, good condition, £50 ono. look out tower plus burrow, only available from USA, plus extras, good cond, Tel; 611686 Brown leather tub chair, good cond, £45 ovno. Tel: 728444 Large parrot cage on stand, 3ft deep, £60. Tel: 770384 Table, round extends to oval, & 4 2ft 9 ins long, 1 ft 8ins wide, £60, buyer collects. Tel: 723063 chairs, £25 Tel: 881080 Night storage heater, ultra slim Minibus, 12 yrs old, with tail lift for disaDimplex XL18, as new, will deliver lo- bled passengers, 10 seater, well serviced, price to be negotiated. Tel: Swincally, £195 ono. Tel: 878605 (eves) Electric fire, three bar with coal and don PHAB on 705013 living flame effect, wooden surround, Wanted first class condition, £35. Tel: 874097 Grape crusher. Tel: 421868 Teak chest of drawers, £15. Tel: 722158 Secondary double glazing, fit window Services 52.5 ins x 47.5ins-68.5ins (adjustable 50p per word, cheques to West width), suit Avonmead/Larch more Swindon Publications Close homes, more to follow. Tel: 496802 Registered childminder has vacanTeak cocktail and display cabinet, fair cies, full/part time. Toothill area, fully cond, £30, buyer collects. Brass lamp- insured, diplomas, references availstand & pink shade, £10. Tel: 872869 able. Tel: 431621

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The Link Magazine â€˘ Janua ry 1999

Primary kids put on another classic production Youngsters from Westlea School gave a memorable performance of a Shakespeare classic at Greendown School on 18 December, as part of the West Swindon Shakespeare Festival. So eager were the seventy year 6 School, performed by the Salisbury put in by the children, Westlea eager they were to learn and unchildren to learn lines from The Playhouse and the Sixth Sense teacher Alison Pass said she was derstand the lines. "They really pleased by the enthusiasm chil- put their hearts into the play and Tempest that all the speaking parts Theatre Company. Commenting on the hard work dren had forShakespeare and how loved every moment." were split between two performers. The first half was played by members of Alison Pass' class and the second half by actors from Peter Newbury's. They were accompanied by dozens of decorated spirits, mariners and strange beings from the Bard's imagination. The completely sold out show was directed by Greendown teacher Tim Noble, who directed year 6 from Westlea in A Midsummer Nights Dream at the end of 1997. Year 7 from Greendown also performed The Tempest at the end of term, and children from Tregoze School are preparing for performances in March. The Tempest is the central theme in the West Swindon Shakespeare Festival involving six primary schools from the area, Wroughton Junior School and Greendown. Sponsored by National Power and WH Smith, the festival has been designed around the national literacy hour. In January, children from all the schools will attend productions of The Tempest at Greendown

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Meet the man who came up with the name Just over twenty years ago, Malcolm Patrick was a twelve year living in Luddesdown Road, Toothill, taking a bus daily with other local children to Richard Jefferies School on the other side of town. Now married to Lucy and dad to three year old Adele, the family live in Rodbourne. His parents still live in West Swindon and Lucy's father lives in Abbey Meads. In December 1978, Patrick received an extra Christmas present of a book token. The first newsletter had arrived through doors in Toothill without a masthead. The front page story offered a prize for suggesting an appropriate name. He actually called it Toothill Link, but this was soon changed to The Link as people moved into Freshbrook. "It really is great that The Link has been going for twenty years and is still free. It is very helpful and I hope it continues for many years to come," said Malcolm. Lucy holds up the first unnamed edition and Malcolm has the titled second edition, whilst Adele witnesses a historical scene

The Link: a kind of `ownership' by the community Twelve years ago Moira Webster moved from Bedford, not altogether willingly to West Swindon, following husband Alan's job, writes Gina Dennis. Delays on their house completion saw the School Learning Alliance, Shaw Residents Asfamily living at the Kings Head Hotel in Old sociation, Holy Trinity Church, Shaw and as Town for several weeks. Without a car, Moira parent governor at Shaw Ridge and Greenhad to bus 5 year old daughter Louise to Shaw down Schools. Ridge for her initial half days at school and Moira still reads The Link 'from cover to then find some way of occupying two and a cover'. She says, "a lot of people look forward half year old Robert. to it coming. There is a sense of ownership of This forced Moira to become involved in the the magazine in the community." community and get to know people. She went She was uncertain when distribution started to toddler groups and coffee mornings at the in Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads three years Link Centre and Upper Shaw Farm. "People ago. But her initial reservations about the were very willing to be friendly because it was increased coverage gave way to a recognition a new community," she says. of the similarities between that development Eventually the family was able to move into and the experiences people in West Swindon their new home in Ramleaze. Moira rememhave gone through. bers receiving her first copy of The Link and She says now, "I don't think I'd want to live finding it full of useful information - though it anywhere else. West Swindon is an excellent was then only a six sided newsletter. place to bring up a family, with lots going on. With Sheila Cracknell, Moira started the Good schools and leisure facilities combine Newcomers toddler group. Next up was'Todwith a quiet, friendly environment. "I've endler Out West', a booklet listing facilities for Robert, Moira and Louise hold up the tenth joyed where I live and I've enjoyed what I've under fives. She has since been involved in a anniversary edition from 1988 where they were been doing in the community. And The Link Shaw Newcomers Coffee Morning, the Prepictured with other residents on the front page has enhanced that sense of belonging."

WILTSHIRE NEWSPAPER AND MAGAZINE PRINTERS

Congratulations to The Link on its twentieth anniversary Wiltshire is pleased to have printed the magazine since 1989 WILTSHIRE (BRISTOL) LIMITED FIRST AVENUE â€˘ PORTBURY WEST BRISTOL BS20 9WP TELEPHONE: 0 1 275 375555 FAX: 01 275 375590