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Est. 1978
Inside Is West Swindon a community?
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Circulation 10,000
This is no way to treat your headteacher on opening day!
Thamesdown Council's Community Development team in the west are holding an open evening on 13th July to find what people who live in the area think. If you have an answer or want to talk it over with others, come along. Details on page 3.
West Swindon's longest serving teacher departs Toothill. An interview with Mrs. Newton on page 20. Details of the WASPS Summer Playschemes on page 25. Photographs of fetes at Freshbrook, Westlea, Shaw & the Under 5s Festival.
Brookfield School at Shaw was officially opened at a grand fete on Saturday 18th June. Throwing sponges at the Headteacher was but one attraction. Above: Deputy Head Pam Jackson with twins Simone and Amber Jackson have the first go. More 'photos on page 10.
No. 76 July 1988
Council turns down Westlea houses plan An application to build 88 more houses on land next to the Delta Business Park in Westlea was thrown out by Thamesdown Council's Planning Committee on 6th June. This means the proposed Tennis Centre to be built on the site might have been put in jeopardy because of associated land finance deals. Over fifty people living in roads adjacent to the site lobbied councillors before the meeting and stayed on to observe its proceedings. The planning application to build the houses was put by Tarmac Homes whose representatives attended a public meeting in May organised by councillor Ricky Midwinter. Commenting on the committee's decision, Coun. Midwinter said that it was regrettable that Tarmac had not taken into account the strength of feeling of residents from the public meeting and had submitted an application without any amendments. "Residents had expressed their views very clearly. They wanted fewer houses and the height of the site reduced. 'l was very pleased by the turnout of local people and I want to congratulate them for following the issue through." Local councillor Tony Free, speaking at the meeting, said that he was very concerned by the attitude taken by the developer towards the local community. "Its very important that Thamesdown Council does not crumble under pressure from house builders. If we are taken in by their demands, we would become their organ and not be representing the people who elected us." He was also impressed by the concern shown by residents. (continued on page 3)
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FRONT PIECE IS THERE COMMUNITY LIFE IN WEST SWINDON?
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Could you say that West Swindon is a 'community?' Do you feel part of a 'community' in any way? These profound questions are being asked by West Swindon's Community Development team and they are holding an open evening on 13th July to see what answers local people can come up with. By 1992 West Swindon will be complete. In 16 years over 11,000 houses will have been built providing homes for around 35,000 people. At present there are 25,000
Published by West Swindon Publications 13, Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Tel: (0793) 872282 Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Advertising Sales: Jacky Pearce. Tel: (0793) 771534 Typesetting, Design & Layout by IMacOgle Printed by Western Webb, Bristol. Published on the Wednesday closest to the first of the month. Copy date: 12th of the preceding month. "The Link was first published in December 1978 as a magazine aimed exclusively at the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of the Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984." 3 Front Piece 4 Toothill 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park 7 Westlea 10 Shaw 11 For Women 12 Recreation 14 Arts Scene 16 Under 5s Festival Roundup 18 Day in the Life 20 Education Matters 21 West Swindon Fund for Disabled Children 22 At Your Library 23 Recollections 23-28 News & Views 29 Home & Garden 30 End Pieces/At Your Service 31 The Reference Page
people living in the area and a whole range of community groups. For example, there are 11 playgroups, 24 parent and toddler groups, 18 uniformed youth groups, 8 groups for retired people and many more. There are also 5 churches, 4 community centres, 9 schools, 9 shops plus the West Swindon Centre, the town's best library and leisure facilities. The statistics roll on! But is this provision enough for the present, let alone the future. What is it going to be like as the present 3,000 pre-school children get older for instance? Whilst there are dozens of people in West Swindon who commit themselves on a voluntary basis, many more people will be needed to create and sustain the community groups of the future. The Community Development team's role is to assist people in putting their ideas into action and whilst the physical development of the area is nearing completion, the team wants to discuss how the community might develop over the next few years. Anybody with ideas about West Swindon should attend. The open evening will take place in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, starting at 8p.m. and will start with a short slide show illustrating community life in the area.
HOUSES TURNED DOWN (coot. from front page)
"This demonstrates that people should not just stand back and let developers get their own way. By applying pressure with the assistance of councillors, people can fight for improvements in their environment. We were not prepared to accept a bad housing scheme in return for a tennis centre." Ian Nulty of Featherwood attended the Planning Committee meeting and came away pleasantly surprised by the decision. "Many residents accept that there will be development but I don't think Tarmac believed we could win this battle. They deserved to have their plan rejected; we put on a good show." It is understood that the developers will be re-submitting their application with amendments to the house types, reductions in the site height and propose to make a substantial financial contribution to community facilities in Westlea.
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TOOTHILL Toothill School - 10th Birthday Fete
4 Early Morning Breakfast Toothill Community Centre has received a thank you letter from a group of unemployed football team who bedded down in the main hall at the end of April. The team from Liverpool stayed in the centre for two nights whilst competing in the national unemployed 6 a-side football tournament run by Thamesdown Council Arts and Recreation Department. The letter of appreciation mentioned how welcome they had been made at the centre. They also sent a plaque depicting the City of Liverpool's coat of arms. Community centre chairperson June Lawton said that centre members were a bit unsure about 30 strangers camping in the building before they arrived. "We got on very well when they arrived. They were a smashing group and we will be pleased to have them here again next year." To send the team on their way, centre treasurer Ken Jones with help from Neigbourhood worker Lucie Hartley and youth worker Ian Crawford got up at 5a.m to cook a huge breakfast.
Toothill Beat Policeman Richard Pearce tries his hand at test cricket on Barry Williams stall (standing at rear) with Brendan Nolan and David Bentley. Right top: Postman Pat with Fancy Dress Entrants; Centre: Playgroup fundraisers-Diana Lustey, Chris Bourne & Anne Brady. Bottom: Sir Nathanial of the NatWest attracts young savers. Bleary eyed over the bacon and eggs, ex-chef Ken Jones and Lucie Hartley
RALPH PALMER PHARMACY Ralph Palmer, M.P.S., Dispensing Chemist 3, Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon—Fri. 9a.m. - 1p.m.; 2p.m. —6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. - 12 noon Telephone: 512063
Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food & Fish and Chips Special Chinese Food Take-Away Menu TEL: 487055 Hours of Business 6.00_11.30pm Sunday Monday Closed all day 5.00_11.30pm Tuesday Wednesday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-11.30pm Thursday 12.00— 145pm 5.00— 1 130pm Friday 12.00— 145pm 5.00-12.00 Saturday 12.00-2.00pm 5.00-12.00 OPEN ALL BANK HOLIDAYS (MONDAY) FROM 5.00p.m. —11.00 p.m.
Three year old Lara Byfield of Toothill Toothill Childminders Debbie Smalley really does not know what to make of the and Marlene Dennis try to disguise larger than life Postman Pat. themselves.
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Residential
Toothill £48,500
Grange Park £49,995
Toothil £51,950
Grange Park £52,000
Freshbrook £62,950
Grange Park £64,500
Freshbrook £70,995
Shaw £80,500
Freshbrook £84,000
Rarnleaze £92,500
Shaw £97,500
Ramleaze £135,000
Freshbrook £143,000
Shaw £160,000
Greenmeadow £124,750
Contact James Beardsworth or Phil Holland on 33301 124 COMMERCIAL ROAD SWINDON WILTSHIRE 0793 33301 4-6 NEWPORT STREET SWINDON WILTSHIRE 0793 33301 HIGH STREET WOOrFON BASSETT WILTSHIRE 0793 850321
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FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Freshbrook's Fun Day '88
Below left with the Mayor and Mayoress of Thamesdown, Coun. and Mrs. Jim Cordon: Carnival Queen Alison Angel! andPrincess Hannah Rodney, Below right: Freshbrooks' Bathing Belle Councillor Bob Pixton. Right column, bottom: Bonniest baby Sophie Fisher with mum Jeannette (centre) with other entrants. Centre: Rainbow Playgroup Mums, 1. to r., Lesley Armstrong, Sandra Doyle, Ann Warwick, Wendy Clark, Julie Young, Diane Fuicher Top: Fancydress entrants, 1. to r., Christopher Howell, junior winner as Bertie Bassett, Michelle Dobbs, senior winner as Frankenstein, Bo-Peep Kimberley Moore and a four child dragon from Windmill Hill School
Annual Meeting hears of Neighbourhood Watch Success The Freshbrook Village Group (FVG) held its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 15th June which was attended by 45 people. Following reports of the year's activities and election of a new executive committee, the meeting was addressed by P.C. Styles from the Swindon Police Crime Prevention Unit on the benefits of Neighbourhood Watch Schemes. The outgoing chairperson Pam Pixton reported that the FVG had been mainly concerned with the maintenance of Freshbrook's Community Centre which was very well used throughout the year by a whole range of different community organisations and for private hire. She drew particular attention to the opening of a youth coffee bar on Sundays. The sessions are run by local youngsters with the support of Greendown based youth worker Carl Bowen and have proved a good meeting place for young people to get together over the weekend. She complimented them for organising a Christmas tea party with local pensioners which was a great success. The accounts for the year were agreed. It was pointed out that 'Cuppas' community cafe had reduced its operating deficit by over ÂŁ5,000 to just over ÂŁ1,000 which was a credit to staff effort and the fact that more people from Freshbrook were finding it a useful community facility.
A new chairperson was elected in Martin Leighfield and a new executive committee formed to carry on the day to day business of the FVG for the following year. P.C. Styles said that Neighbourhood Watch Schemes were growing in number nationwide as more people saw the benefits of keeping an eye on each others homes. He said that residential burglaries were down 11% in Wiltshire and watch schemes contributed to this. At present there are 120 in Swindon and several in West Swindon. He said a scheme required at least one person in a street to become a coordinator who would talk to around 20 other households to get them involved. Information was provided by the police on what to look out for, but at the end of the day schemes are successful because the members look after each others interests. The meeting ended with a free cheese and wine party. *All residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park are members of the Freshbrook Village Group according to its constitution. Apart from running the commuPony rides, nity centre, it exists to take up Inflatable, community issues and problems GWR Majorettes, on behalf of residents. Country Dancing, Residents who feel they need the support of a community orDisplays, ganisation can contact the FVG Stalls Galore! executive committee via the Organised by the administrator in the community Friends of Freshbrook School centre at the Village Centre.
FRESHBROOK SCHOOL FETE Sat. 2nd July, 2p.m. - 4.30p.m.
Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226
Opening Times: Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm; 2.15pm - 7pm Saturday 9am 1230pm
WESTLEA Westlea School Fete- 25th June
7 NEIGHBOURS
Right: The Parry family try to win the whisky bottle.
New Westlea groups sets out to help new people feel at home in the community.
Below left: Natalie Crocker, Samantha Ford and Nicola Hoyland with Shire Horses Bonnie and Gem
People compare West Swindon In Westlea, a group of resito a transit camp. It seems you dents wants to help newcomers just get to know your neighbour feel like belongers. Nothing and then they move, and in formal - just old fashioned moves another stranger. In fact, neighbourliness. If you would about 25% of homes in West like to help in a small way, Swindon change hands each please do something., like year! and what about the new 'phoning 872822 and give Helen stranger? How do they get to your name and address. It could feel they belong here - rather make all the difference to someone out there than just living here?
Below Right: Pet prize winners Matthew Hogg and Fluff in the best kept cage and Naomi Evens with Sandy the Gerbil Middle: Its not as easy as it looks Bottom: Trying out the assault course - Westlea School children from left, Barry Haith, Lianna Cook, Kylie Cook, Tina Hudson
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SHAW New School opens with fun and games Grand fete marks official opening of Brookfield primary. Left: Balloon salesgirl Laura Drayton of Shaw. Below: Collin and Sam Davies Catboys of Old Shaw Lane
about being blind and wrote down their ideas," said Mr. Woodcock. "They also made braille patterns and clay dogs. They were very impressed with Ralph and he was their unanimous choice to visit us again and officially open the school." The whole day was great and I did not mind being soaked."
Below: Ralph Wheeler with Brookfield Headteacher Peter Woodcock and the hobbyhorse team , (I. to r.) Charlotte Dowding, Billy Piper, Ben Mason, Matthew Hampton, Nicloa Dowding, Helen Moore..
Driver Centre to get go ahead from Council The plans to build a Driver Training Centre on the tipped land to the east of Shaw, north of the Renault Centre will be put before Thamesdown Council's Planfling Committee in July and final approval is expected by Heathrow based HLR Ltd. The company will lease the tip for 10 years from owners Wiltshire County Council, until the land has settled enough to allow construction. Although a network of tarmac roads was awarded permission earlier in the year, an associated proposal to construct an all terrain vehicle rough track was thrown out on the grounds of noise and dust creation. HLR plan to use the tracks for training drivers in handling vehicles in difficult conditions. As reported in the May Link, the company submitted revised plans to the June Planning Committee with the rough track located further away from houses in Shaw and Sparcells. They also included more landscaping and committed themselves to laying out a cricket pitch with kickwalls for local footballing youngsters. Local councillor Ricky Midwinter, who has fought for improvements in the plans to benefit residents, said that he supported the revised scheme when it went before the planning committee, but had also supported the suggestion for a site visit by members of the Planning Committee before final approval was given. Coun. Midwinter said that he had been approached by a group of people interested in starting a cricket team on the pitch to be constructed by HLR. -HLR Ltd. also specialises in hiring out vintage and war time vehicles to film companies and in the longer term may bring forward a plan to erect a building where they can be viewed when not on location.
Fine weather made the opening of Shaw's Brookfield School a very enjoyable day for children, parents and visitors. The school was formally opened by Mr. Ralph Wheeler, a friend of headteacher Peter Woodcock, who is blind. "Ralph visited the school earlier in the year and worked with the children. They talked to him
Residents' Assoc. backs need for community centre At the last meeting of the association those attending were upumping potatoe sacks prepare for the race dated on the status of various developments going on in Shaw. New issues were raised regarding road safety in the area and also the development of a village centre in Sparcells both of which are now being taken up with the relevant council departments. As outlined in the last Link magazine the association wants to encourage new groups and help people create a sense of community as well as taking up problems faced by residents. Many of you will have read the article by Tony Free regarding the Shaw Community Centre. Shaw Residents Association supports Tony's view and also hopes that more people in Shaw Deputy Head Mrs. Jackson feels the strain as the tug-o-war team prepares will recognize the value of being to pile up on top of itself. involved in their community. The association is forming a subcommittee to cover issues relating to the community centre. Anyone interested in getting involved in the planning of the centre should contact Mary Morgan on 874535. The next meeting of the association will be at Shaw Church on 11th July at 7.45p.m. If you have a question to raise, want to find out about the area, get involved in community centre planning or just want to meet other Shaw residents please come along, we will be pleased to see you. In the meantime you can contact me on 874272.
FOR WOMEN Buying and selling houses REACH YOUR IDEAL WEIGHT AND STAY THERE is such a pain! WITH THE CAMBRIDGE DIET.
Thinking about moving afterwards can turn you neurotic according to Debbie Griffiths of Shaw. Four months ago we decided that we were fed up with playing musical beds at night with the children, and we'd move to a bigger house. We spent Good Friday camped out all night at the new Wimpy site at Fairford, (we were actually third in the queue at 5p.m. the previous day!). The release price was 50% higher than the original grapevine price. So, shell shocked and through lack of sleep, we paid our reservation fee. Well, we had to come away with something other than frostbite. We then slept on it and decided to move locally. I spent the next six weeks as a fanatical housewife. I became paranoid about mess. It was horrific. I don't ever want to go through it again. And it was all in vain as no one visited. Seeing the light, I relaxed on housework and let the kids out of their straight jackets. Hubby breathed a sigh of relief and dared to leave his dirty socks around again, (why break a habit of a lifetime). One evening, I left hubby with two grubby children and an even grubbier kitchen and obstacle course of a lounge, to go to college. That night our purchasers came! Amazingly they bought it. We spent the next six weeks groveling to our solicitor, being careful not to upset him, but trying to hurry things along. I have absolutely no nails left. With two weeks to moving! have done absolutely nothing. I tell a lie. I have a large box in the bedroom which I trip over to get into bed. I come out in a cold sweat when I look at it. No wonder I'm not sleeping well. It's "Under 5's" month so we're out visiting a lot. I don't know if I can fit the move into my schedule. Don't even ask me where we're going to hang our clothes whilst we construct our "ever-soeasy, even a child could do it" D.I.Y. wardrobes. I'll apologize now to our new neighbours for the banging and bashing coming from our garage, in an attempt to erect them. We're not normally so aggressive! We're moving ourselves. Which reminds me I must hire a van. So if you see someone carting a three piece suite on a wheelbarrow in the middle of the night, it's us. There's not much to move really, just the furniture, toys, clothes, books, junk, plants, ornaments
Call your Counsellor today:
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Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on Swindon 873201 or Mollie Groom (Lydiard Millicent) on Swindon 770544
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Christine Ellis, a regular contributor to the Womens page, had a baby boy weighing 9lbs 4oz on 25th May. Both are well and partner Neil is trying to do as much as he can to help, but says he can't pretend that he is doing all that he should.
Women's Group invites others to learn DIY skills Toothill Women's Group recognises that many women do not know what to do when a fuse blows or electrical plug needs wiring so they are holding a 'Do It Yourself' afternoon on Monday 4th July from 1.15a.m. to 2.45p.m. at Toothill Church. The session will be friendly and informal and is aimed to give 'hands-on' experience of how to fix the annoying things that go wrong when you least want them to. There is free child care and a contribution of .50p to group funds will cover rent and refreshments. All women in the area will be made welcome.
Car Boot Sale The Womens Group are also holding a Car Boot Sale on Saturday 30th July, 1p.m. to 5p.m. at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive. To book a space, telephone Marie Bird on 481057 or Dawn Saunders on 619164. Cost: £4 in advance; £5 on the
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RECREATION
Link Centre is determined to get you fit
Evergreen Lifestyle Monday 1.30p.m.-3.30p.m. Thursday 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. Those of you who are older in years but young at heart are invited to join us for keepfit, badminton, snooker, table tennis, swimming and coffee with friends. Cost: £1.40.
Promotions -Officer Anya Kent gives you some ideas before the holidays.
Now that the Summer is in full swing, are you dreading the thought of having to bare all on the beach!? If so, now is the time to take action. The Link Centre has a variety of activities to suit all ages, shapes and sizes! If you have time on your hands during the day why not come along to one of our Lifestyle Sessions, which offer the ideal opportunity to try something new, meet new friends, get in shape, and have fun at the same time.
Woodshaw I Wootton Bassett (0793) 854653
For Earlybirds For those of you who have to be at work by 900a.m., take advantage of our Earlybird Lifestyle Session (sponsored by Courtaulds Films) on Wednesday mornings from 7.30a.m.930a.m. You can participate in a A warm up in the main hail to start the Ladies Lifestyle session wide range of activities including squash, badminton, weight Link Lifestyle training and the swimming pool Wednesday 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. opens its doors at 7.20a.m. Cost: Friday 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. £1.40 for the session, or if you A mixed session for all abilities. only want to swim it costs 90 Activities include keepfit, bad- pence. minton, snooker, squash and table tennis, and use of facilities Fitness Training in the Arts Studio. To add to your If you have any energy left at the enjoyment we have thrown in a end of the day, why not try our free swim, and a coffee, all for just Fitness Training, which takes £1.40. place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7.30p.m.-8.30p.m. and Ladies Lifestyle the price of just £1.60, includes a Monday 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. free swim! Creche facilities are free, so we'll look after the children whilst you Come along to the Link Centre kick off your shoes, let your hair and we'll shape you up for down and take part in keepfit, Summer! For further details on racket sports and team games, our Lifestyle sessions and all followed by a cup of coffee, and a other activities, please call Link relaxing swim with your friends. Centre Main Reception, tel. Cost £1.40. 871212.
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Road race Under 5s Activity sponsored by local Day at Link Centre garage passes West Swindon's Under 5s Festival took over the Link Centre for through West day of energetic activity by Swindon on 10th. aparents and youngster. For .25p On 10th July well over four hundred runners will taking part in a ten kilometre road race which passes through West
per adult, there were chances to dance, bounce, swim, skate and to have a go at trampolining, the mini-gym and baby massage. Swindon. The general conclusion by eveSponsored by Titcombe Ga- rybody, especially those unable rages of West Swindon and or- to book sessions, was Lets have ganised by Swindon Road Run- this regularly.' ners, the race will start at 11a.m. from Lydiard Park. From the country park entrance the runners will come down Hook Street, along Whitehill Way and turn left into Grange Park Way. They then run along Hay Lane until it meets Tewkesbury Way opposite Brookhouse Farm, then through Shaw via the back road past Nine Elms and Washpool and return to the park via Lydiard Millicent. Cheering crowds along the route will be very welcome. The run was first initiated in 1986 as part of the West Swindon 10th Birthday celebrations.
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14 WHAT'S ON AT LINK ARTS Not much this month -Rock Front concert on July 1st, doors open 8.00 pm, tickets E1.50. 'Teddy White' in concert on July 9th [details to be arranged]. Rock Front concert on July 15th and again on July 29th. -Children's Club Summer Fete on July 2nd from 1-4 pm. •Thoughout this month the studios are exhibiting wall hanging ceramic work by local potters SANDRA CU FIT IS and DEE HONEYBUN. The exhibition finishes on 23rd July. -From August 1 stthere will be an exhibition of photographs of the Sudan by MIKE TOY.
ARTS SCENE LINK ARTS STUDIOS Community Sculptors - USERS GROUP The Arts Studios at the Link Centre have a Users Group which is involved in giving advice and support to the staff at the Studios. New members of the group are always welcome. For details ring Chris Humphey on 871212.
We look at the three sculptors who have been based in West Swindon and view their work.
The latest of the three sculptors based in West Swindon over the last five years - Julie Livesey - recently returned from a trip to Portugal to prepare for a four month commission funded by the Gulbenkian Foundation, the Lisbon based charity that funds arts and community projects. Here Julie gives some impressions of her trip. GWR RADIO MARLBOR- The aeroplane prepared for landing just as I had finished reading the OUGH FESTIVAL horoscope page in the paper. Pisces: "The pace of life is a little On Thursday 7 July at the Arts startling now and as yet another new scheme presents itself, you have to make a fairly instant decision. The future depends on your Centre in Old Town the Festi- being open to new ideas and new friends. Don't drag your feet too val is showing 'BLACKMAIL'. much. Don't fly off the handle because you are feeling insecure. Take This 1929 classic film directed it quite cautiously." by Alfred Hitchcock, hot BritO.K. that seemed clear enough. I had been offered the chance to ish 'talking picture'. Tickets build a public sculpture for Lisbon, that I was about as much as I ÂŁ2.00. knew; I needed all the advice I could get. I was met and taken to the Gulbenkian Museum for a formal lunch. Endless knives, forks What is to be done about and waiters. So started a week WYVERN THEATRE The Bathers? Ideas invited full of food and wine, and very l( C-Atatest E aawuA The regular damage that takes late nights. THE MEDITERRANEAN is the place to Jon Buck's unusual Lisbon is a beautiful city, small sculptures in Westlea Park is enough for you to quickly feel at theme of a series of classical causing some people to think ease and to find your way music concerts starting on 23rd about moving them. September at the Wyvern Thearound. I liked the cluttered atre which lasts well into 1989. The sculptures of three larger narrow streets and the sense of than life-sized figures clad in age that the buildings have, melThe series, sponsored for the swimming costumes entitled low and sun scorched. third year by the Nationwide 'Looking to the future' were Anglia Building Society, features On about day four I was taken made by Jon when he was West to Lisnave, the shipyard where I music by composers influenced Swindon's first sculptors in resi- am to build my sculpture. I by the Mediterranean. Pieces from Russian composers, dence in 1985. He has returned worked at Swan Hunters shipTchaikovsky's Souvenir de on three occasions to patch up the yard on the Tyne before I came to figures who are regular daubed West Swindon but the thrill of Florence and Rimsky-Korsakov's with paint and have ears and being dwarfed by huge machines Caprice Espagnole, English composers, Elgar's Overture in the noses hacked off. Fortunately never diminishes, the towering they cannot be moved as the cranes piercing the sky and at South and Berlioz's Harold in Italy glass fibre figures are filled with Lisnave the world's largest dry display the attraction the Mediconcrete and pinned to the spe- dock. terranean has held for composers cially constructed staging on from all walks of life. I felt accepted by the shipyard The series welcomes for the which they sit. workers. They showed no surThe defaced figure of a bather first time The Philharmonia of Commenting on the damage prise at the proposition of a Bristol and the Seranata of LonThamesdown's visual arts offi- woman sculptor working The classical music brochure is cer Alistair Snow said that it was amongst them. I was given a don. The Gabrieli String Quartet returns with the brilliant An- available from the Wyvern The- very disappointing that the boiler suit with LISNAVE thony Pay and the Wyvern The- atre and tickets for individual sculptures were damaged so printed on the back like the men, atre is very excited to bring the concerts or the whole series are regularly, especially now that steel capped boots, a lightweight Moscow String Orchestra to its available from the Box Office, they were beginning to blend in welding kit and an office with telephone: Swindon 24481. with the scenery as adjacent shower room. stage. shrub planting matures. Perhaps my glass of 117 year "1 think Jon is beginning to old port should be remembered The 1988/89 Classical Music Series in association with Nationwide Anglia Building Society think that we should try to find as a highlight of my visit; nice, another, safer site for The Bath- but perhaps wasted on me as I ers. I would hope that we can don't know much about wine. A fiesta of superb musicianship to wet the appetite find somewhere in West SwinI enjoyed the people much don as they were created in and more. I met lots of sculptors who of those looking for the best in specifically for the area. A lot of work mostly in marble and they Classical Music. people find them both unusual entertained me long into the Verdi, Bocherini, Corelli, Respighi, and interesting; children adore evenings. Vivaldi, De Falla and many more climbing all over them." When alone I visited the SUBSCRIBE NOW Alistair Snow would welcome Lisbon's botanic gardens which And Soak Up The Atmosphere. comments. He can be contacted are huge and hardly seemed Subscription ends on Friday 23rd September. at Thamesdown Council's Joliffe used. The plants are exotic from Studios, Theatre Square, Swin- Africa and South America and it don, tel: 26161. Alternatively, was odd to see north European The Link would welcome read- plants looking frail and unhappy Vf. [RN THEATRETHEATRE SQUARES\,INDONSN1 IQJ ers views on where The Bathers in the sun, longing for rain and N(NflFl(E 7 :-T1 CREDIT CARL) LINE might go. (continued on page 15)
THE MEDITERRANEAN
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Julie Livesey and her 'White Horse Pacified' located in Shaw.
dampness. All around were green lizards, bright, glittery as jewelled broaches, darting across the gravel paths. Life in another country so different. I really like that. Amongst my baggage I had packed 40 books which made the trip to the airport difficult. I had planned to leave them in Lisbon to await my return. On my second day I visited the British Council offices and was taken to the library packed with English books, any of which I could borrow. So much for my fears.
I'm looking forward to working in Portugal. I have no idea what the sculpture will be, but it will certainly be constructed in steel, a material rarely used for sculpture out there. *Whilst Julie Livesey is working in Portugal, a Portuguese sculptor, Maria Felizol will be based at the Joliffe Arts 'Studio in Swindon, above the Wyvern Theatre. She will create a sculpture to be sited in Dorcan, east Swindon and is funded by the Gulbenkian Foundation, The Southern Arts Association and Thamesdown Borough Council.
'Stonehenge Stones' weathering well Although part of Hideo Furuta's massive sculpture at Freshbrook Village Centre has been shifted off its plinth, he is a little surprised that NEXUS is in such good condition, given its public location. Hideo spent six months on site creating the four large pieces which are balanced together on timbers outside Freshbrook Community Centre. He used Blue Pennant stone, the same used to build Stonehenge. NEXUS was unveiled in November 1986 and according to
Hideo tries to represent the coming together of a community. The ancient stones are sculptored and placed together in a new form which will mature as time passes. It symbolises the coming together of people, the growth of the community and the connection that people have with the past the future and each other. Hideo, who still lives with his family in Grange Park, has recently completed a commission at Walsgrave Hospital in Coventry and will soon start another at Powis Castle in Wales.
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WEST SWINDON UNDER 5s FESTIVAL
16
Festival a great success - Events attended by hundreds of children with parents. West Swindon first ever Festival for under 5s and their parents has been in an enormous success. A series of events during June were aimed to celebrate the huge number of children under 5 in the area. Nearly all the events were crowded though they would have been overwhelmed if a higher proportion of the estimated 3,000 pre-school children in West Swindon (plus their parents) had attended. As it was the Link Centre Activity Day on 14th
June was a disappointment to people at the end of the queue when they found the popular activities like trampolining and mini-gym booked up. The Festival kicked off on 7th June with a Play Workshop put on by the Pre-School Playgroups Association with about 150 children making, gluing, sticking, playing and singing. Over 300 turned up for the Link activities, the Storytellers performed their puppet shows twice to full houses in the Arts Studio and
Clare Mann of Freshbrook enjoyed the summer weather at the Teddy Bears Picnic at Lyd lard Park
over 400 came to the Fun Day at Upper Shaw Farm on 16th June. The same number went to the Teddy Bears Picnic at Lydiard Park on 21St June. Some arrived on the specially charted buses which took them through the Thamesdown Transport bus wash. Festival Coordinator Sheila Cracknell is very pleased by the outcome. "Everybody who organised events should be thanked and so should all who attended. This is only the start, lots of other events could take place throughout the year - if there are people willing to put them on. I think we have something we can build on. Without doubt, the Festival has shown there is a great need for more for under 5s." Centre top, centre and below: Parachute games, in the giant sandpit and water-play at the Upper Shaw Farm Fun Day organised by Shaw Ridge Parent & Toddler and Shaw Church.
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17 Self Help Playgroup gets through first year but hard work continues. -
The children, committee members, parents and staff at Oliver Tomkins Playgroup celebrated its first birthday recently with a 'Hickory Dickory Dock' cake. Its been a hard year according to chairperson Janice Gullon. Although the playgroup provides much needed places for pre-school children, their building in Kiln Park, off Beaumaris Road, Toothill, is the management committee's responsibility, unlike other groups which rent David Marriott and dad Trevor get - rooms in community centres. "I feel relieved and pleased the feel of playdough at the fathers only day at the Oliver Tomkins that we've made it through the Under 5s Centre during the Festi- first year," said Janice. "We've organised at least one major funval. draising event every month and have managed to pay off loans of over £1,000, apart from running the playgroup from day to day. There's still a long way to go as we now have to replace all the old equipment that was given or scrounged from other groups. It's all very expensive and will require a lot of effort. "The commitee and staff have all worked very hard over the last year and should be thanked for their tremendous contribution."
Link Activity Day. Above: Link Centre Activity Assistant Kay Mortimer give s a helping hand to Samantha godden and mum Hazel. Below: Children's Librarian Ashifa Moledina treats the youngsters to a few moments of calm between activities during storytime.. Below right: Hundreds of teddy bears at the Lydiard Picnic.
Forthcoming fundraising events: NEARLY NEW SALE MONDAY 4TH JULY, 1.30P.M. - 3.30P.M. OLIVER TOMKINS UNDER 5'S CENTRE Excellent bargains in children's and adults clothes, household goods, etc., cake stall and raffle. Admission 5p 0000
CAR BOOT SALE LINK COACH PARK SATURDAY 9TH JULY, 12 noon - 2p.m. To book a pitch, ring Helen on 875472 £3 in advance; £4 on the day
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18
DAY INTHE LIFE THE G.W.R. MAJORETTESREPRESENTATIVES FOR WEST SWINDON
Nearly every Saturday and often Sundays, over 70 children from West Swindon visit events all over the south and sometimes further afield. Pam Pixton, one of the three Majorette organisers, gives us an idea of what happens on their trips. On summer weekends in many of the homes in West Swindon there is a buzz of activity. The hunt is on! "Where are my daps?", "Anyone seen my socks?", etc. This can only mean one thing. The G.W.R. Majorettes are marching today. Sometime later people armed with boxes, batons, and maces descend on Freshbrook Village Centre. Will the coach be on time and has everyone turned up? We're off surrounded by uniforms swinging from the racks and if anyone has forgotten anything it is now too late. We hurtle down the motorway to the strains of Kylie Minogue singing "I should be so Lucky" from a cassette at the front accompanied by a lusty rendering of "One man went to mow" from the back. "How much further," is now being asked and, as a few of the children (and adults) are now feeling travel sick we pull into a layby with toilets to
The Majorettes line up for their annual photograph with the Mayor and Mayoress of Thamesdown, Councillor and Mrs. Jim Cordon at the Freshbrook Fun Day
give everyone a break. What a shock for other travellers as we form an instant 54 person queue. We arrive at the Bath and West Show and the coach bounces its way into our reserved parking spot. The mace bearers and trainers go off to inspect the display field and to work out the best route from the coach. "Can we have our lunch now?," is the plea as soon as we're off the coach, but we
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have to wait until after our first display. The coach is now a hive of activity as daps are whitened, hats brushed, instruments strapped on etc. We don't have to be quite as fussy today as we would for a competition when a speck on a dap means one point lost! The majorettes readily form up. "Majorettes attention," the drums strike up and we're off. We march down to the arena with people scuttling out of the way. (There's no stopping us now). A good display and back to the coach. One majorette feels faint and has to be carried she's heavier than she looks! The majoettes change into their bright red tracksuits, which makes them easier to see, and we all sit on the grass to eat our lunch. After lunch we break into groups and look round the show. Collecting badges, stickers hats, etc., as we go, we make our way past the stalls and tents.
Time has come to make our way back to the coach and the changing process begins again. The second display goes well. We have a final look round, a roll call, then with all present we join the queue to leave the show grounds. It's a good journey home with everyone in fine spirits after an enjoyable day out. Some even manage to sleep despite all the chatter. A raucous chorus of "For he's a jolly good driver," strikes up so we must be in sight of the Windmill and nearly home. Its now a tradition to render this song. We pull into Freshbrook Centre where parents are waiting to collect their children. Tired but happy we disembark and the adults gather up the assortment of articles left behind. Another day over in life of a majorette - still its another day tomorrow! To join the GWR Majorettes, telephone Pam Pixton on 695317. (There is a waiting list)
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20
EDUCATION MATTERS
Toothill School says 'Good-bye' to head. West Swindon's longest serving headteacher is moving on to new challenges. After ten years and one term, Toothill County Primary School head Mrs. Anne Newton is to take up a lecturing post at Westminster College, Oxford, training teachers for future generations of children. Mrs. Newton was one of the first professionals to work in Swindon's 'western expansion area' when she was appointed in early 1978 to prepare for the opening of the new school the following September. Barely 500 households had been occupied since the first families arrived in April 1976 and conditions were awful when compared to today according to Mrs. Newton. "The families out here were really pioneers. The hut in Dunwich Drive was used as a shop and in the other half a community centre. Buses were few, there was no proper footpath into Swindon, no street lights and mud everywhere. "1 had been a head of two other schools in Swindon but I applied for the post at Toothill because I knew the area would grow. At the time the western expansion was in North Wilts. and wasn't considered part of Swindon. It was a challenge to be in at the beginning and I wanted to welcome the newcomers who were arriving from all over the country. I felt like a pioneer as well, and the people here welcomed me warmly." Mrs. Newton based herself in a house above the present Toothill Pharmacy and also at Park North Infant School so that she could meet parents. At the time children were bussed across Swindon from their first day at school. Two Hundred Children "It wasn't possible to predict numbers to join the school and the authority thought there might be 200 children. There may have been that number in the area, but they were not of school age. We started with 17 and five staff who were all so eager that the children had a great deal of attention. By Christmas though, more had joined and we had four small classes. "Numbers did not start rising until the second year but people probably don't remember that we were only taking infants, juniors were bussed across town until 1983. "It was lovely in those first years because we knew every family as well as the children.
Mrs. Anne Newton with Toothill School children (from left) Carry Harvey, Kerry Plumb, Emma Calt, Stuart Brown and. (in front), Nicky Lea, David
King, Christopher Barber at the 101 hAnniversary Fete on 25th June. With 470 children in the school moved over to the community now its more difficult to get to centre in 1984 where there was know people as well." more room for their growing The pressure of ever rising numbers. numbers has caused Mrs. New"I'll always remember Toot ton some worries as more and the school mascot. He gave the more children arrived to take the children something to identify school roll way past the 280 with and he still takes part in places the permanent facilities school life, as a guide on road were designed and built for 10 safety for the young ones and a years ago. At present there are supporter at sports matches. I seven mobile classrooms on site wonder how many people realwith few prospects of a second ise that the 'Toot & Whistle' pub school being built to replace name comes from the school. We them. put the name forward in a cornpetition run by the brewery and Same Core Facilities "Obviously the large num- won. They put on a lovely party bers using the same core facilities for the children as a prize." "Perhaps what I regret most, as we had when we opened has meant a strain on everybody. For apart from the lack of accommoexample, its not possible to have dation, is the fact that nursery a whole school assembly. But the provision has not been introparents and staff have been very duced during my time at Toothunderstanding and perhaps we ill. I respect what playgroups do, have worked harder to find ways but the opportunity for rising round the problem. Unfortu- fives to experience a nursery nately I can't see numbers drop- class assists the early years at ping below about 450 children school no end." Unjustified Reputation for a long time." Happy memories crowd in on Having been in at the beginMrs. Newton as she prepares to fling Mrs. Newton has seen many hand over the reins to Mrs. Too- stages in Toothill's development. good, who taught at Toothill "It was sad that one or two mciSchool between 1980 and 1984. dents and the lack of facilities "1 will remember having the generally gave people outside Good Companions Pensioners the area the wrong impression. club meeting in the community Toothill's 'reputation' is quite room next to the school. The unjustified, I have had only pensioners formed their group friendship and kindness. six months after the school "The physical development opened; they had a deep effect on of the area finished some time school life. They were so happy ago; the people living here now in their social activities and to are developing it as a better have an older generation in a community for their children to new community without strong grow up in. I think its got a lot family ties was a stabilising influ- going for it and as I will continue ence. Children used to perform to live in Swindon and Mrs. for them and some club members Toogood is a good friend of mine, visited classes, and they always I'll be keeping in touch." had their Christmas parties in the school hall. It was sad when they
FIFTH VILLAGE SCHOOL IN DOUBT
A primary school for West Swindon's fifth 'urban village' at Roughmoor is going to be delayed and may never be built. With a slowing down of house building as the area nears completion and continued restrictions on local government finance, there is a chance that funds may not be allocated in future years. Roughmoor is the northernmost development of West Swindon beyond Shaw. People started to move into the Sparcells area of Roughmoor last summer but the next phase of house building between the new flood water lagoon and the Moredon to Purton road will not take place until 1989. The sites for Roughmoor village centre and a primary school lie within this area and these facilities can only be provided after the roads and sewers are built. The recent decision by the Secretary of the State for the Environment that Thamesdown's growth should be kept within its boundaries and not be allowed to spill over into North Wilts. on the Ridgeway Farm site, on the other side of the Moredon to Purton road, has also upset the development process. The economic viability of a village centre and the size of a school are likely to be affected by the reduced population living in Roughmoor. Revising Plans Assistant Director responsible for planning future schools at Wiltshire County Council Education Department Christopher Perraton confirmed that the Education Committee was having to re-consider its priorities. "The Committee's plan for primary school provision in West Swindon includes a school to be built at Roughmoor in 1989/90. However the site will not be available until 1991 and with the rejection of the Ridgeway Farm proposal, the school will be smaller than originally envisaged." With funds allocated in the budget for a school in West Swindon for the next financial year, a proposal is to be put before the Education Committee that another school should be built next to Brookfield Primary in Shaw in order to cater for children moving into houses which will be built in Shaw afid Roughmoor during the next two years. (continued on page 21)
W. SWINDON FUND FOR DISABLED CHILDREN 21 The West Swindon Fund for Westlea headteacher gets the push Disabled Children was given a big push on 11th June when in aid of charity Westlea School headteacher Neil Griffiths was propelled around the streets of Swindon in a bed. The fund has been set up to improve facilities for children with disabilities who live in West Swindon. The first major project is to raise around £15,000 to install a lift at Greendown Community School. The project is the brainchild of David and Karen Jack, with help from Mr. Griffiths, when their daughter Kerrie decided she wanted to attend Greendown with her classmates. Kerrie suffers from a rare nervous condition which will make control over her limbs increasingly difficult. At present, excessive exercise exhausts her and will cause a progressive deterioration in her health. The bedpush was organised by the Friends of Westlea School Association. With Neil Griffiths dressed up as Wee Willy Winky Westlea School headteacher Neil Griffiths masquerading round the streets of Swindon as Wee Willy accompanied by children, parWinkie, supported by Kerrie Jack, on the bed, David and Karen Jack, in fund t-shirts, with support from ents and staff in fancy dress, £270 Friends of Westlea School. was raised in a two hour tour of Swindon town centre. Kerrie walks for the Gerry looks all the GRAND CHARITY "People sre so generous with fund with brothers better for helping out their donations without really AUCTION knowing the cause we were raisand friend Helen. Gerry Keefe's long struggle to IN ing funds for," said Karen Jack." A brave effort by Kerrie Jack, her work off some weight was finally AID OF THE brothers and a friend, has raised tested at a fete last Saturday, 25th Fifth Village School WEST SWINDON £140 for the Fund. July. "They just decided to organise Gerry who works for West Although the Roughmoor FUND FOR school will remain in a develop- a sponsored walk, made up Swindon based company PHH DISABLED ment plan it will have been re- sponsorship forms and knocked Europe has been slimming like on the doors in Featherwood, mad to get rid of the unwanted moved from the three year CHILDREN budget. The project will then Moresby Close and the sur- pounds, and earning sponsorWEDNESDAY have to fight its way back into the rounding area," said Karen Jack. ship money for a good cause. 13TH JULY capital building programme "The route took them round After several unsuccessful along with many others across the houses, about a quarter of a attempts to get rid of the excess, 7p.m. the county. Its success depends mile altogether. For Kerrie thats shb finally set herself the target of WESTLEA SCHOOL on the outcome of the County hard work and she was knocked raising a lot of money for the Council elections to take place out after doing the 10 laps. Her West Swindon Fund for Disabled ALL INVITED TO next May as to whether there is brothers Matthew and Leon, Children as a way of motivating COME ALONG continued support for building and friend Helen Woodham, herself to keep slimming. AND BID walked their lot and then ran With the fund in mind, and in schools in West Swindon. particular the needs of Kerrie Gerril Keefe and Kerrie Jack at the Commenting on behalf of the another 10. "We would all like to thank Jack, as well as enormous en- PHH company fete on 25th June. Governing body at Brookfield School, chairperson Anne Wil- everybody who contributed to couragement from colleagues in the PHH building at Windmill liams said that the Governors the fund." had been been consulted on the Mrs. M. Carrier of Grange Park Hill business park, Gerry has rid proposal to build a second school was the winner in the West herself of two stone of unwanted on their site. "We have replied to Swindon Nat West Bank word weight. Last Saturday a final weigh-in the County saying we would quiz run during June in aid of took place at the PHH staff fete at prefer to see the Roughmoor the fund. School being built on schedule. The correct answers to the Lydiard Park where she weighed in at ten and a half stone. Prizes But given that we have been told clues are: were awarded to colleagues who that this is not possible, we have 1 .panda; 2.cat; 3.camel; stated that we would not oppose 4 leopard; 5.mule; 6.bear; 7.bulI; had guessed her final weight correctly. the building of another school at 8.stag; 9.wolf; 1 O.boar; 11 .deer; "It was the incentive of raising Brookfield. 12.dog; 13.otter; 14.badger; money for somebody like Kerrie "Nevertheless we feel its a 1 5.beetles; 1 6.cockroach; and the backing from everybody long way to walk from Sparcells 17.donkey; 18.cavy; 19.gerbil; at PHH that has kept me going," and I have been told that a direct 20.hedgehog; 21 .elephant; 22. said Gerry. footpath is unlikely to be built for horse; 23.giratfe; 24.tiger; 25.squirrel; 26.kiwi; 27.dolphin; Over £500 has been raised by 12 months. I think people living 28.jaguar; 29.guinea pig; Gerry for the Fund for disabled in Roughmoor should start fight- 30.cheetah. Children. ing for a school."
22
AT YOUR LIBRARY Meet Isabel Mason, mainstray at West Swindon Library
A profile by Librarian Linda Black she remembers the trauma of the move and admits she felt 'a real outsider' at the 'Little Village School' in the centre of Chiseldon. That feeling did not last long - making friends and settling down, she feels pleased at being able to remember Swindon as a small town - no large superstores and no western expansion. A special thrill was visiting the Empire Theatre before it was knocked down. There is note of nostalgia in her voice when she describes the heydays of British Rail in Swindon - memories of a hardworking people and a certain degree of poverty. Where most visitors meet Isabel Mason. At the desk.. Isabel's family had now moved to Wroughton which in with regular responsibility for a another three months went by those days was seen as being small clerical team. It was her and it was all still not enough! In very separate from Swindon. organizational and administra- a record six months, Isabel found She chose to go to Commonweal tive skills which were to prove so herself working full-time and Grammer School after passing useful to the library service some promoted to her first senior assisher 11+. Although still a compul- time later. tant post at Walcot and Old sive reader Isabel admits she did On marrying a Swindon man, Town libraries. Her commitnot really enjoy her school days it was convenient to settle ini- ment to libraries was consoli(rules of the old grammer schools tially near her work in the centre dated in her attainment of the were too restrictive), but is of Swindon but a short time later City and Guilds Diploma in lipleased that the education she Isabel moved to Greenmeadow brary skills and administration. received gave her a grounding to think about bringing up a For the next six years Isabel defor life. Keen for independence, family. She calls it time for reflec- voted her energies to her two Isabel sat her '0 levels and the tion. On finishing work tempo- libraries, but then in 1984 she British Rail entrance examina- rarily, she looked at what she had caught wind of the new West tion. She was to work for B.R. for most enjoyed and realized that Swindon library scheduled to eight years, firstly in the accounts the 'public' part of her job had open in 1985 - there was no stopsection. As a hard and capable offered most satisfaction - this ping her now! The senior assisworker she soon found herself was to become a major objective tant post at the new library ofin her life in the future. fered the maximum responsibilTHE ACTION BANK THE ACTION BANK THE ACTION BANK Ne At home with two children, ity without going through a fullZ books became a way of life for the time course to qualify as a librarfamily and inevitably, as the chil- ian. dren grew, fresh thoughts about Amidst enormous competia working future took hold. Is- tion for this prestigious post, Isabel says mast emphatically, it abel was elated to be appointed LU had to be a job with the library in January 1985, and from that service. With great stamina, she moment had a total involvement obtained the necessary qualifica- with the development of the litions at North Star College before brary as it is today. Not only co applying for the first vacant post. responsible for the direct superIsabel joined Wiltshire Library vision of a large working team, 0 and Museum Service on a part- Isabel is the one who make sure time basis in 1978. Based at the place is kept tidy and organCovingham library, most of her ized and who ensures you get all twelve hours a week, were spent those difficult requested titles, on the mobile which served not to mention keeping all the Grange Drive and Green- books in a good state of repair. meadow. There were no shocks Last word from Isabel herself, "It in store, working in a library is has been very very hard going exactly what she wanted and was but has given me immeasurable exactly as she expected it would satisfaction and I wouldn't have At home or away, business or private, big or small, be. She admits the work was missed it for the world!" basic, and after only three now or next year, income or outgoings. Until 20th August there months realized she wanted So why not call in at your local NatWest branch, will be a display of more responsibility. With an in West Swindon District Centre, or Z information about the increased number of working Autumn telephone (0793) 870466 hours, Isabel was promoted to be Z a member of the staff relief team Adult Education programme the manager and his staff will be pleased 0 - this entailed working in nearly Iin the West Swindon 0 to welcome you. all the libraries in the Swindon Library. All details to be area - her flexibility and adaptapublished in next months bility suited her for the addiLink Magazine. THE ACTION BANK THEACT,ONBANK414 tional responsibility, but alas V9NOII3V 3Hi
THEACTI ON
If it's anything to do with money I you'll find no one works harder on your account I than NatWest.
)IN VE N 0113V H1
This month we are profiling the mainstay of our library - our senior assistant, Isabel Mason. Many of you will know Isabel from the days when she worked in other libraries in the Swindon area. She is the member of staff most likely to be smiling at you when you return your books from our point of view, she is a great chivier, always positive when the rest of us become demotivated and with a sense of humour hard to resist. Dare I say, Isabel also has her roots firmly in North. Born in Co. Durham, she moved to the small village of Lincluden, just outside Dumfries, when she was only a few months old. Her recollections belong in a Miss Read novel - picnics by the local river, gathering wild strawberries, tadpoling and tobogganing - sunny days and rural peace. Isabel also became aware of her love of literature at this early period of her life - junior classics, and would you believe boys adventure books! Although her first eight years were spent north of the border, you will not detect an 'och' or a 'wee' in her voice - it all disappeared when, at the age of eight her parents moved to Wiltshire and settled down in Chiseldon, just outside Swindon. Even now
NatWest
MY PAST 23 Writers Cramp Up and Some Recollections Running Debbie Tilley takes a nostalgic look at the days of her childhood Mentally stepping back a quarter of a century, I find myself recollecting the halcyon days of early childhood. Days of endless sunshine, buttercups and childhood friendships. The memories, as clear as crystal, are easier to recall than things that happened last week. I remember the cottage we lived in, my parents, myself and my elder sister. It belonged to the local squire and was built of red brick in typical Victorian style. It was a two up two down with a flagged kitchen floor and a stone sink. In the kitchen there was a fire place and on the righthand side of the fire place, a brick built copper with a wooden lid. The wood had been scrubbed white over the years and the handle was worn smooth by countless generations of overworked mother on busy, steamy washdays. We kept a bowl of 'Mop day' goldfish on the top of the copper and these poor dazed creatures would leap out of their spherical home with monotonous regularity and gasp their last in the dark dusty depths of our unused copper. Off the kitchen, was a walk in larder, dark and cool, a tiny mesh window ventilated it and rows of wooden shelves lined it. On the floor was a marble slab on which the red brick coloured earthenware milk coolers stood. These, filled with cold water and the milk bottle placed inside worked as efficiently as any 'fridge. On the shelves, gleaming like rich jewels in the dim coolness, stood jars of bottled fruit, plums, rhubarb, and greengages all from our garden and bottled in dumpy kilner jars by my mother. The mesh meat-safe which kept any wayward flies off the Sunday joint made a splendid 'coolie' hat when not in use on Fridays! The windows of the cottage were latticed and the green painted front door, which was never used, was faded by the sun and I can remember drawing patterns on it with wetted finger and watching the pictures fade as they were dried by the sun. The front garden was small but was a riot of 'Snow on the mountain', roses and a large blood-red paeony, whose fat round buds fitted my small hand like a tennis ball. The back garden, however, was large and provided most of our fruit and vegetables. One year
my father decided that we needed a lawn, he carefully seeded and nurtured this lawn to verdent perfection, only to have it ruined by a healthy crop of potatoes growing through it! At the bottom of the garden was a brick built coal shed and earthcloset. This ancient convenience had a wooden two hole seat which was smooth and shiney from use and was always warm to sit on. I hated the place, it was dark and spidery and the holes seemed enormous. My sister had a vile habit of locking me in, thinking it a huge joke to listen to my screams and sobs through the little diamond shaped hole in the door. We didn't have the luxury of soft, pastel coloured, toilet tissue in those days, but had to make do with hard shiney 'Bronco' or, if times were hard, and they often were, squares of the local newspaper or even, on occasions the Radio Times! All this, and a thousand tiny random details, I can remember, like the white rope bannister with its elaborate tassle, and bedrooms so cold in the winter that you could see your breath rising in steamy clouds. The flower pattern on top of the paraffin stove which was really pretty when illuminated by the soft glow from inside and the all pervading smell of pink paraffin. Doesn't everyone remember Saturday bathnight in front of the open fire, in galvanised bathtub, with camphor oil rubbed on their chests in winter and wincyette nighties warmed on the hearth? The memories crowd in, what good conversation they would make with convivial friends on a jolly evening, memories need exchange and prompting and exclamations of and many, "Oh yes, I remember those!" I'll leave these random jottings here and wait until I next have a glass or two of wine and a friendly listening ear before I embark on another journey in time. 7'
The inclusion of this page has been inspired by Writers Cramp. In such a young community there must be many others with a story to tell about their past. Further articles will be welcomed.
West Swindon writers circle looks for new members. As the result of a notice, placed by Tom Wilson, in the May edition of The Link, West Swindon now has its very own writers circle. We call ourselves 'Writers Cramp' and have already met three times. We anticipate future meetings will be on a monthly basis. There are only six of us at present but what we lack in numbers we more than make up in literary talent [we hope]. If you've ever wanted to be in print or indeed are already published we would love to meet you. So, no matter what your age or gender, why not come along? Our next meeting will be on Friday, July 22nd in the playgroup room, Community Suite, Link Centre, 7.30p.m-9.30p.m. We are also very keen to find a tutor who would be willing to come along to some of our meetings and give us a few pointers. Interested? For more information ring Chris on 873259 or Debbie on 873595 or Tom Wilson on 614879.
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24 NEWS & VIEWS LEGAL Which make-up shades are QUESTIONS) Making A Will right for you? The latest of the occasional articles by David Jackman with West An Evening of Health and Beauty can help you to discover the colours that best compliment your unique skin tones. An evening in your own home with your friends features personal colour analysis and a make-up demonstration. To arrange your own Evening of Health and Beauty, ring ma DCosta on Swindon 751122. A special discount is offered to readers of The Link.
THE ALCOHOL ADVISORY CENTRE requires volunteers to train as counsellors for people with drinking problems and their families. You should be able to offer 7 hours per week (days) at our main office in Swindon and at sessions in Marlborough and Chippenham. Travel expenses paid. This is challenging and stimulating work that needs warm, caring personalities with open minded attitudes. - we believe in safe drinking. Further details and an application form from_ The Alcohol Advisory Centre, 13 Bath Road, Swindon. Tel: 695405. Forms should be returned by 25th July. We are working to become an Equal Opportunities Employer. r Li
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Swindon Solicitors, Morrison & and Masters
1.What is a Will? Put simply, it is a set of written instructions made by an adult person, ('testator' if a man, 'testatrix' if a woman) as to how his property is to be disposed of after his death. It is only legally effective at death and must have been drawn up, signed and witnessed in the way required by law. 2.Who should make a Will? Any adult with dependent relatives (wife, husband, children) who expects to be 'worth something' if he dies. It becomes even more important if he or she owns property or a share in property, or is in business in partnership or has any other legal status which would complicate matters for other people if he were to die, It is dangerous to assume that everything goes automatically to your wife or husband. 3.When should I make a Will? If you think that you fit the description in paragraph 2. above, you should do it right away. Without wishing to be morbid, healthy people die suddenly every day; you don't have to wait until the week before your first aeroplane journey to Spain before putting your affairs in order!
4. How should I make a Will? There are three ways of going about it. Buy a Will Form. In my (a) opinion these forms are a menace and it should be made illegal for stationers to sell them to the public. It is so easy to fill them in wrongly or make mistakes in the formalities of signing them and when such a Will has to be read by the testator's next-of-kin, the one person who can explain what he really meant to say is dead! Buy a book on do-it-your(b) self wills. The possibility of getting it wrong or inserting unnecessary complications is still there. The safest way is.... (c). Seeasolicitor. Drawingup a Will is probably the cheapest legal service you will ever buy. You get as much advice as you need and a professionally typed document which is word perfect and witnessed by a Solicitor or his staff. Next month, I will explain what can happen if you die without a valid Will and consider a few of the things you should think about before making one.
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Free summer play activity for West Swindon children
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West Swindon's playscheme project WASPS is getting ready for another summer of fun for children aged 5 to 14. They have arranged four weeks of making and doing, games, crafts and a few surprises in four diferent venues and its all FREE. -
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WASPS will take place from Above: A monstrous creation Monday to Thursday in the week with the help of Mel Jones from the beginning:Joliffe Studio
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Below: Elves and Wizards WASPS playworker Cherry Hobbs tries to frighten the kids away
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St. George's Day Parade at West Swindon
The murder in the Sudan of Chris and Claire Rolfe, two Swindon based Aid workers in early May left two Greendown students stunned and saddened. For although they had never actually met, they had become good friends. The Rolfes, with their two preschool children, were caught in a gun and grenade attack as they sat down at a hotel in Khartoum, capital of the Sudan. Chris worked at Thamesdown Voluntary Services Centre until 1983 and Claire was a social work student based there for a time. They then went to Somalia and later the Sudan to set up self-help projects and businesses with refugees fleeing from the various conflicts and drought that beset that part of the world. They were working with the Quaker Peace and Service organisation. "We were shocked when we were told about their deaths," said first year student Sufia Ali. "They were so good to us." "We were doing a project on Somalia in our last year at Freshbrook primary school," said Karen Spiers. "We were finding out about the farming, weather, religions and the language and the lives of refugees. We contacted them through Miss Wollen, our teacher. They sent us several interesting letters and gave us so much information. We couldn't have done the project without their help." "We never met them, but they were wonderful people. We were so sad when we heard. The bombs were not meant for them." A memorial service was held for the Rolfes at the Friends Meeting I louse in Swindon on Sunday 19th June.
The North Wilts District St. Georges Day Parade was held in West Swindon on Sunday 26th April and was attended by 350 Scouts and Guides from all over North Wiltshire. The parade was lead by Cricklade Town Band, the salute was taken by Roger Reeves (Acting District Commissioner) and Tony Pistell (Former County Commissioner of Wiltshire). The service was held at St. Peters Church, with Father O'Driscoll and Rev. Keith Boxall officiating, the address was given by Tony Pistell.
HELP NEEDED AT BABY BOOM GROUP Shaw Ridge Parent and Toddler Group is having a baby boom! But so many mums now have new baby as well as a toddler that we could really with some spare pairs of hands. If you like young children and can spare an hour or two on Wednesday mornings or Thursday afternoons we would be delighted to hear from you . The sort of help we would like is assistance with aprons and general supervision on the painting or playdough table, or help with cutting out or drawing; in fact playing with the children. If you can help, even on an irregular basis, please just come along to the Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre, opposite Shaw Ridge School, on Wednesdays 10a.m.-12 noon or Thursdays 1.30p.m.-3.30p.m. or telephone on 875150.
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SWINDON SOFT WATER Makes water soften in • sim • le West Swindon St. John Ambulance Coordinator Alex Duffield waits for the new engine to be installed by friends who prefer not to be photographed. The much troubled ambulance bought by the West Swindon branch of the St. John Ambulance is back on the road and doing good works. Although the vehicle arrived just over a year ago after a great deal of effort by St. John members to raise the £5,000 to buy it secondhand, it has spent about five months off the road. Soon after receiving the ambulance in June 1987 the engine blew up on the M4 with a patient on board, who was delivered safely by a relief. Unfortunately, after an engine re-build which was done badly, the engine blew again. This time the branch had to pay out £800 for a re-conditioned engine which has been fitted by experts. The ambulance is now a regular sight around West Swindon and will be in attendance with St. John members at many of the public events held in the area. It is also used regularly to transport National Health Service patients to and from PMH from other hospitals, and to carry frail elderly people. Commenting on their misfortune, St. John coordinator Alex Duffield of Tintagel Close, Toothill said that the branch finds the vehicle a great help when on site and hopefully they will have more luck in future. For their next big fundraising project the branch are looking to buy and equip a mobile first aid post to provide better on site care for people who become ill or need treatment at events where St. John members are in attendance.
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Christian Aid Week Results
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by Ian Schagan, West Swindon fundraising coordinator Christian Aid Week in May this year was an unqualified success, and the house-to-house collections raised over £1000, proving the generosity of the people of West Swindon and the dedication of the collectors. The total can be broken down as follows: Freshbrook £271.64 Toothill £310.16 Grange Park £212.42 (inc. Hook) Westlea £262.75 Miscellaneous £ 29.12 Total £1,086.09 Many thanks to all who gave, and to the army of envelopepushers and door-knockers who made this total possible. Apologies to those parts of West Swindon we didn't manage to reach perhaps next year we will have even more collectors and be able to get round to you. Christian Aid in West Swindon will not be closing down until next May. We are continuing to hold Third World Lunches every other month at a rota of churches, and in October we hope there will be another happening" at the West Swindon Centre as part of One World Week. If you want to find out more about Christian Aid, or would like to be involved in any of these activities, please contact Ian Schagen, tel. 871093.
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Bingo Callers Wanted The bingo sessions at Toothill Community Centre have closed until volunteers come forward to help out. If you could join a rota to run the sessions on a Sunday evenin. nfl. Robena on 614492
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28 PEATMOOR COPSE Woodland in need of care and attention as housing surrounds it An area of woodland near Shaw which is over 10,000 years old is looking for friends. A public
Common Platt
gathering is to be held on 14th
July to find people who will protect and care for the area as new house building surrounds it.
Peatmoor Copse is located to the north of Shaw village at the western end of the new 20 acre flood water storage lagoon. The five acre wood is thought to be remains of Bradon Forest, a Royal hunting forest which covered hundreds of acres around Purton. A large part of it has never been touched by humans and therefore has evolved as a unique environment. The copse is now the responsibility of the Arts and Recreation Group of Thamesdown Borough Council which is keen to involve local people in its management. Urban Fringe Officer (UFO) Richard Keating believes that local people have an important role in protecting the copse from the inevitable pressures that natural habitats come under once they become urbanised. "Peatmoor Copse is the only example in Thamesdowri of a wet woodland habitat," said Richard. "Thousands of years ago it was a pond which gradually filled up with vegetation from which trees grew. Because of the wetness, the copse has never had any agricultural value though the trees in parts of it have been coppiced (where trees have been cut and encouraged to grow again). We have fenced and ditched the copse to stop people from disturbing the unusual range of plant, animal and insect life to be found in it, but we want to encourage sensitive use." Richard is hoping to find local people who can help with the management of the copse.
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"There are a range of practical tasks that can be carried out. We would like to re-start coppicing as this helps different kinds of flora and fauna to exist. There is also hedge laying and ditch digging to be done and possibly a pond to be made. "In the un-touched areas, we need to make paths, build bridges and generally create ways that people can have controlled access to the wood without upsetting the delicate balance of nature. It can remain a source of study and enjoyment for people of all ages in the years ahead." The gathering on 14th July will take place at 7p.m. at Lower Shaw Farm which is located in Old Shaw Lane. After a brief introduction, Richard Keating will conduct a guided walk to and around Peatmoor Copse, about half a mile away. On returning a discussion will take place on how a 'friends' group
Become A Friend of Peatmoor Copse help local wildlife
4 A44
(A.7
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An Introductory walk and talk. LowerShaw Farm, Old ShawLane. Thursday 14th July, 7p.m. All Welcome.
can be formed and the range of activities that it might start. Bring boots and wet weather clothing for the walk; buggies and wheelchairs can reach the edge of the copse safely. Refreshments will be available. Children and teenagers are welcome.
Peace Fair The third Swindon Peace Fair will take place on Saturday August 6th from 10a.m.- 4p.m. in Faringdon Road Park. Now established as an annual event, the Fair provides an opportunity for local groups concerned with peace, the environment and human and animal rights to raise money and put across their message. Although August 6th is the anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima, the Fair itself is a celebration of hope for the building of a peaceful and just world. With a variety of stalls, inflatables and entertainments, it's a good day out for the entire family. New attractions this year include a symbolic linking of hands by everybody present and the release of Peace Balloons en masse over Swindon. Voluntary organisations may book space (f2 per 10 foot frontage). Commercial concerns are also welcome (5 per 10 foot). Please bring your own tables. All cheques should be made payable to 'Swindon Peace Fair'. Further details from the organiser, Derek Williams, 10 Redcliffe St. Swindon. Telephone: 618687.
Out & About Explorations with Bob A new footbridge at Sparcells has opened up vast new areas for people who want to get out and about on foot. Situated behind the Wilcon site office, it means that people can cross from Sparcells, under the Swindon to Gloucester railway line to the great open spaces along the banks of the River Ray and lots more. To help West Swindon people discover new walks, Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton is organising a 'summer wander' on Friday 6th July at 6.30p.m. The meeting point is the Wilcon site office at Sparcells. For more information, ring Bob on 695317.
Farm Walk A farm open day with a little bit of mystery is being organised by Thamesdown Council's Arts and Recreation Department for Sunday 17th July. The farm is being kept a secret so that people leave their cars behind. Leaving every half an hour from 10a.m. to 3p.m. groups will leave Lydiard Park by horse and cart. After a short ride they will continue on foot. At interesting points along the route experts will be on hand to talk about farming methods, pond and stream ecology and woodland wildlife. At the farm there will be a chance to see animals and machinery and to talk to the farmers about their work. Overall the round trip is expected to take up to two and half hours.
Walk for the World Wildlife Fund A group of wildlife supporters are holding a sponsored walk around Lydiard Park in October and they want West Swindon people to join in. The Swindon Area Supporters Group of the World Wildlife Fund for Nature will be putting the money from the walk to-
wards a project to protect Britain's vanishing wildlife. The walk is due to take place on Sunday 9th October and for the first time ever a company, Heinz, is boosting the fund raising effort by sponsoring the walk. For more information on how to join in, contact Judy Turner on 783483.
Pretty Dangerous ClareBeaton takes a look at plants to be treated with suspicion I was collecting my brother from the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford after his impacted wisdom teeth had been extracted. We were waiting at the hospital pharmacy for his prescription to be made up and! was diverted by a poster displaying various common plants that are poisonous. At the time I was interested in spotting how many of the illustrated plants I grew in my garden; lords-and ladies (Arum italicum), hellebores (Christmas and Lenten Roses), lily-of the- valley, Winter aconites and the yet more hazardous summer-flowering Monkshood (Aconitum x bicolour)
just start the list. On reflection, it has highlighted how dangerous a place the garden can be and the care that should be taken when children visit, or when planting and pruning activities take place. Commonly known poisonous plants are ivy and laburnum; I have often heard of these as plants to avoid in a garden with young children. Aconites are so poisonous that after the roots are handled when clumps in the border are being divided you are advised to wash your hands immediately. However, there are hazards beyond that of simply eating something poisonous. Several plants have defence mechanisms similar to that of the stinging nettle, but on a more vicious scale. I have seen various clumps of spurges included in amenity plantings around West Swindon and all members of this Euphorbia family contain a milky sap similar in appearance to that of a dandelion. Sensitive skins react with a rash after contact and if the sap is transferred to eyes or mouth painful swelling may well result. There is an equally unfriendly giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) whose hairy stems can cause blistering to a degree that leaves scars. I have, seen this plant recommended for garden use because of its 'statuesque' quality but I think it ought to carry a Government Health Warning or be banned altogether lit self-seeds invasivelyl. Berries are an obvious danger area. Woody nightshade and various bryonies are native to the hedgerows preserved throughout West Swindon and can ap-
29
HOME & GARDEN A Craftsman of the Old School Local decorator could create the house of your dreams!
Have you ever looked at the colour photographs of beautifully decorated rooms in a housekeeping or DIY magazine and wished you could create those effects? The leaflets put out by paint manufacturers make it look so easy. However, when you have a go, things do not go as smoothly as you dreamt. In Ray Stansfield, West Swindon has an experienced and professional craftsman with skills which are rarely seen nowadays. But he is not able to show them off enough. Living in Grange Park, Ray takes on contract work with various builders A local example of his skill is the attractive internal decoration at The Village Inn at Shaw Village Centre. Further afield, he decorated the Penthouse Suite on the Q.E. II. "I just can't get enough work to use my skills. I served a 7 year apprenticeship back home in Yorkshire after leaving school at fourteen and have been in the trade for over thirty years," said Ray. "Special effect painting is coming back into fashion, but the skills are dieing out slowly." Seeing the decoration of his own house, Ray achieves delightful effects by sponging, rag rolling, brush dragging, stencilling and graining, both on walls, woodwork and furniture. pear in the garden. They all have attractive red berries in the autumn and may be collected along with the prized hedgerow blackberries. Spindle trees in the amenity plantings have attractive pink and orange berries; violently purgative if eaten [and poisonous]. The moral is, to be careful; nothing should be eaten until positively identified as wholesome.
000000000 A GARDEN TO VISIT Corsley Mill is south of A3098 at Chapmanslade, which is west of Westbury, and promises 400 different roses planted alongside formal walks together with a stream and plantings of primulas, willows and birches; admission £1, open 2p.m.-5p.m.
Ray Stansfield with his display board and 40 year old tools.
To achieve the results, he uses special brushes, combs and other materials which are over 40 years old; some are impossible to get nowadays. Every job Ray takes on has to be priced individually according to the customer's requirements. He does take on ordinary painting and paper hanging work as well, though seeing his demonstration panels can convince you that you should have unique decoration around you. Most people do not have the time or the experience to achieve Ray's results. However, he could create the house of your dreams.
R.T. Fancy Landscape Gardener in West Swindon 20 years of experience. Turfing, Paving, Fencing, Planting new Gardens Rockery Construction, Pergolas etc. New gardens TEL: 875174 PURCHASE OR EXCHANGE your Gift Token with us. "THE PRESENT FOR THE FUTURE"
VISIT YOUR LOCAL GARDEN CENTRE Large Selection of Trees. Shrubs • Alpines • Heathers. Conifers & Herbaceous Perennials. All Your Garden Requirements. HAYDON WICK, SWINDON Tel: Swindon 721221
Entrance Junction Lady Lane and Westfield Way .4; .4,
Raymond Stansfield DECORATOR with over 30 years experience. Craftsman in Paint and Decor SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes.
Telephone: (0793) 874299
END PIECES
30 C
Vacancies I ) ( Smalls WANTED: SEAMSTRESS for new West Swindon soft furnishings business. FOR SALE: Quality, reliability and ability to work quickly to high specification. Write with BBC B Computer, details c/ol 3, Castle Dore, Freshbrook. with colour monitor, double disc Applications are invited for a drive, Z80 second processor, CRECHE WORKER Epson wide carriage printer, to provide care and play opportunities for children under 5 business & education software. whose parents will be working on the WASPS summer play ÂŁ490 o.n.o. Tel: 771534. project at various sites in West Swindon. From 25th July to 18th August, Mon. - Thurs.10.30am -3.30pm Write or call inforfurther details and application form to WASPS, Community Suite, Link Centre. Closing date: 8th July.
LOST
WHAT'S ON in and around West Swindon
IN GRANGE PARK AREA: Grey July Until 23rd July Ceramic tabby cat wearing grey jewelled 1St leather collar with gold name barrel. Wall Hanging Exhibition, Link Rine Jane Brown on 874105. Arts. Rock Front Concert, 8pm, 1st Link Arts. 2nd Friends of Freshbrook A quick guide to businesses serving West Swindon. School Fete, 2-4.30pm. Freshbrook School. Details are to be found within The Link. 2nd Chiidrens Club Summer Recruitment Agency Fitted Kitchens, BedAlcohol Advice Fete, 1-4pm, Link Arts. Storm Management Toothill Women's Group. 4th rooms and Bathrooms 695405 'Do it Yourself' afternoon, 1.15Services 481301 Gt. Western Kitchens Bank 2.45pm, at Toothill Church. Free Restaurant National Westminster 618139 child care. Biplob 765320/763794 Nearly New Sale for Oliver W.W. Hall 612821 4th Bank, W. Swindon Tompkins Under 5's Centre, Seatbelts & Tow Bars Funeral Services Centre 870466 Beaumaris Road, Toothill. Swindon Seatbelt Centre 9th Car Boot Sale for Oliver Hilliers Funeral Service Beautician 613147 Ltd. 22797 or 22145 Tompkins Under 5's Centre at Allure Beauty 486452 Link Coach Park. Contact Helen Summers Bicycles and RollerFurniture on 875472 to book. Cambridge Diet: Mollie Changewear Furniture boots 9th 1st Westlea Brownies Groom 770544, Rebecca Jumble Sale, 2-4pm, Toothill 853887 Express Cycles 34907 Community Centre. Clifforde 873201 Cotswold Collection Building Supplies 10th Titcombe West Swindon Solicitors Hills Building Supplies 511898 10k Road Race. Start 11am at Carter, Govier and Read Garages, Car MainLydiard Park. 26321 11th Shaw Residents' Asso617617 tainence & Tyres Butcher ciation monthly meeting, Titcombe Garage 641643 Morrison & Masters The Village Farmshop, 745pm, Shaw Church. 870055 Bassett Tyres 854771 Toothill Centre 487777 12th Copy Date for August Link. Copy to 13 Castle Dore, Take Aways Thamesdown Tyres Car Hire Freshbrook. Pizzarama 874844 Luxury Car Hire 875963 694302 13th Looking at West SwinToothill Chinese Kitchen don," 8pm, Community Suite, Garden Centre Carpet Cleaning Link Centre. A discussion about 487055 Grange Farm Nurseries Sevicemaster 486918 the future Trawlerman 870455 Clothes Alterations 721221 development of the West SwinTheatre Gas Fires and Stoves don community. Mrs. White 872096 13th Charity Auction for West Wyvern Theatre 24481 Heating Systems Ltd. Decorator Swindon Fund for Disabled ChilTool and Plant Hire Ray Stansfield 874299 612060 dren at Westlea School, 7pm. Al Handihire 854821 Driving School General Stores 14th Open meeting to set up Friends of Peatmoor Copse', Runic School of Motoring J.C.R. News, Freshbrook T.V. and Video Repairs 7pm at Lower Shaw Farm, Old Gogglebox 813485 873066 852432 Shaw Lane. Vet Hairdressers 17th Farm Walk starting at Double Glazing & SunLydiard Park. Horse and cart Thameswood Veterinary Blades 34662 lounges leaves every half hour, l0amClinic 26780/511267 Debbie Ogle 870776 C & C Windows 643866 3pm. Water Softeners 22nd West Swindon Writers Overpoint 870816/751302 Hilary Lund 486362 Softwater Centre 853156 Circle (Writers' Cramp) meeting, Wakkies 854653 Pegasus Windows 730pm, Community Suite, Link Kinetico 27172 Landscape Gardener 511301/617104 Centre. R.T. Farley 875174 27th Information/Display on Swindon Glass 615262 Autumn Adult Education ProPharmacists Estate Agents gramme at West Swindon LIRalph Palmer Pharmacy, Dreweatt Neate 33301 brary, Link Loveday & Loveday Toothill 512063 Centre. Until 20th August. 30th Toothill Women's Group 29121 Facechoice Pharmacy, Car Boot Sale, 1-5pm, Toothill Nationwide Sandoes Freshbrook Centre Farm, Bodiam Drive. Contact 870226 872222 Marie on 481057 to book. Ashington Way Pharmacy Parkers-W. Swindon August 616840 512022 1st Photographs of the Sudan, Exhibition, Link Arts. Peter Long & Partners Plumber
AT YOUR SERVICE
615555 Excursions & Tours Thms'down Transport 23700
P.B. Plumbing Services 642995
To advertise a business or service in The Link, Telephone Jacky Pearce onSwindon 771534.
2
Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096
Mrs. White, Freshbrook
31
THE REFERENCE PAGE YOUR LOCAL COUNCILLORS TOOTHILL, WESTLEA, SHAW & ROUGHMOOR/SPARCELLS Thamesdown Borough Council
HILLIER
Tony Free, Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Tel: 619834. Ricky Midwinter, 4 Anglesey Close, Westlea. Tel: 873537. Peter Stoddart, 9 Fairlawn, Liden. Tel: 692812. Surgeries for Free & Midwinter: Friday 6pm-7pm, Community Room, Toothill School.
FUNERAL SERVICE LTD
Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, I The Holbeins, Grange Park. Tel:875129.
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Thamesdown Borough Council Simon Cordon, 16 Branksome Road, Moreden. Tel: 617723. Martin Leighfield, 112 Redcliffe Street, Swindon. Tel: 692305. Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317. Surgeries for Leighfield & Pixton: Wednesday 7pm-7.30pm, Community Room, Freshbrook School.
Wiltshire County Council
252 Whitworth Road Swindon Tel: 22145
55 Victoria Road Swindon Tel: 22797
PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24-hour personal service throughout the year A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED
Simon Cordon - as above.
NEW ARRIVALS TO WEST SWINDON Arrivals Officer: Pam Pixton. She will visit you and provide advice and an information booklet. Tel: 695317. Newcomers Coffee Morning: Tuesday 10.30am-12noon in the Community Suite, Link Centre. Tel: 871212 ext. 234.
LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES Doctors 'Doctors Ketkar, Matheson, Nixon, Flowers, Holden, Chippendale, & Swinyard, Ashington House, Ashington Way, Westlea. Tel: 614840. 'Doctor Reddy, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. 'Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894. 'Doctor Kandiah, I Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253. Health Visitor Team, 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 642133/610459.
Baby Clinics: 'Mon 1.30-4pm 5 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. 'Wed 10am-12noon Shaw Community Centre. 'Wed 2-4pm Greendown School, Grange Park. 'Thurs 2-4pm Freshbrook Community Centre. 'Fri 2-4pm Upper Shaw Farm, Shaw Ridge. Family Planning: Free clinics every Wednesday 6-8pm. 5 Deerhurst Way. No appointment necessary. Cervical Smear Tests.
Pharmacies
THAM ES WOOD VETERINARY CLINIC Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet.M.B., M.R.C.V.S.
Veterinary Surgeon 62-64 Purton Road, Swindon. Tel: (0793)26780 Mon.-Fri: 9.00-10.00am. 2.00-3.00pm. 5.30-6.30pm. Saturday: 9.00-11.00am. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE TEL: (0793)26780 Now open at Cavendish Square Mon.-Fri: 9.00-10.00am. 5.30-6.30pm. Saturday: 2.00-3.00pm. Appointments available if required. Tel: 511267
Ashington Way Pharmacy Westlea (K. W. Schof ield B.Pharm., M.P.S.)
'Ashington Way Pharmacy: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm; Sat 830am12noon; Sun 11.30am-12.30pm Tel: 616840. 'Coopers, West Swindon Centre: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm; Fri 9am9pm; Sat 9am-6pm Tel: 872033. •G.K. Chemists, Shaw Village Centre: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm; Sat 9am-5pm. Closed 1-2pm. Tel: 886076. 'Ralph Palmer Pharmacy, 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm &2-6pm; Sat 9am-12noon. Tel: 512063. 'The Village Pharmacy, Freshbrook Village Centre: Mon-Fri 9am1pm & 2.15-7pm; Sat 9am-12.30pm Tel: 870226.
Blood Pressure & Pulse Check TAKIO automatic machine now available
Mon-Fri 8.30-6.00 p.ni. Sat. 8.3012.00. Sun. 11.30- 12.30
Tel: Swindon 616840
Dentists •B. Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 873044. 'Mrs. Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340.
WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINTS Welfare Benifits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice
Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE.
West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Mon, Wed & Fri lOam-i 2noon. Toothill Advice Point, Toothill Community Centre. Tuesday 10am-12noon.
House Sales and Purchases and all Property Work
COUNCIL HOUSING
(written estimates given)
A Housing Advice Service is available to tenants of houses rented from Thamesdown Borough Council. Tuesday 2pm-4.20pm at Toothill Community Centre.
Divorce, Criminal and all Court work
THE CHURCH Anglican-Methodist-U.R.C.-Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221. Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Sec: D. Linnecar Tel: 872884. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel:874400.
TEL. 870055 for
Wills and Probates
WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon, Telephone 26601 and 69A Commercial Road, Gorse Hill, Telephone 481602
Open 7 Days A Week
FRESHBROOK £96,950. Chudleigh. Large detached taITly house irrarraculate, gas c.h., open tire, fitted kitchen, tour bedrooms, landscaped gardens, VIEW. Ref: 1988 Old Town Office.
GRANGE PARK £51,950. Attractive Mclean 'Sheridan two bed mid town house, entrance hail, longe, kitchen/diner, viewing recommended Ret: 2060. Havelock St. Office
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TOOTUILL £52,950. Larer than average 3 bed end town housewithuxur'hnedkitchenI breakfast room, gas c/htg. Must be viewed.
GRANGE PARK £39,995. An immaculate first floor studio flat with several extras, ideal first time purchase. Ref: 1573 Havelock St. Office
MORTGAGE CENTRE *Up tol 00% Mortgages (Subject to Status & Survey) *Up to 3x Joint Salary *Low Interest Rates STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS. Considering Buying Your 1st Home in West Swindon? Act Now to Avoid Damaging Your Wealth. Ring 512846 for a Free Quotation. 875928 (evenings)
FRESHBROOK £72,950. Attractive Clarke Georgian style 3 bed detached house, hall, lounge, kltchenldiner, detached garage. Ref: 2149. Havelock St. Office.
WESTLEA £62,500. Immaculate 3 bed end terrace house, full gas c.h., attached garage, ant. hail, lounge, dining room, kitchen,bathroom, enc. rear garden. Ref: 1935 Rodbourne Office
GRANGE PARK £120,000. A very large tour bedroom detached house with en-suite shower, double garage and large plot. Ref: 1960 Old Town Office.
THE SPINNEY £88,950. A very spacious three double bedroom detached house with en-suite shower room and separate dining room. Ret: 1378. Old Town Office.
SHAW £68,950. Superb Rendell built 3 bed semi-detached house, entrance porch, lounge, dining room, detached garage, gas tad. c/htg. Recommended. Ret: 2087. Havelock St. Office.
WESTLEA £64,996. An attractive Bradley 3 bed terraced house Including large loungel diner and downstairs cloakroom. Ret: 1192 Old Town Office.
FRESHBROOK £65,000. This modern 3 bed serti offers spacious accomrmdation with an excellent Interior. Including gas c.h. and d.g. Ref: 1723Old Town Office.
BUDGET BEATER £55,000. Staggered mid terrace house. 3 bedrooms, 24' lounge/diner & coloured bathroom. Gas c.h. and small rear arden. Ref: 1279. Old Town Office.
GRANGE PARK £77,500. An immaculate Westbury bull 3 bed detached house comprising of entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen. 3 beds, bathroom with shower, clc.h.. garage. 60 ft. rear garden. Ref: 2043 Roourne Ws Office.
FRESHBROOK £86,995. A very spacious 4 bed detached house with gas c.h. oorTrislng of entrance hail, lounge, dining room, kitchen, utIlity/cloakroom, 4 beds and bathroom. Garage and gardens. All carpets Included. Ret: 2138 Rodbourne Office.
LUDDESDOWN ROAD, TOOTHILL £66,995. Superbly extended 3 bed semi, hail, lounge/ diner, retitled kitchen, breakfast room/ulihty, ge garage/workshopattractive gardens. IRet: 2017. Havelock Sit. Office.
GRANGE PARK £106,950. Superb Standard Homes 4 bed del tarrly house on a good size plot. Hat, cloaks, two large receptions, tilted kitchen,breakfast room. Immediate possession. Ref: 2096. Havelock St. Office.
FRESHBROOK £73,950. Beautifully maintained Broseley 3 bed del house. Entrance hall, lounge/diner, garage, gas rad. c/htg. Arople space to extend. Ref: 2080. Havetock St. Office.
EASTLEAZE £44,250. Purpose built, 1 bed first floor flat with good accemmadation,parking space and gardens. Ret2169. Old Town Office
WESTLEA £46.500. An Immaculate one bedroom. serr-detached house corrprkiing large lounge/diner with spiral staircase, refitted kitchen, bedroom with fitted wardrobes, bathroom with shower, garden. All carpets Included. Ref: 1637 Rodbourne Ott
132 GRANGE DRIVE STRATTON ST. MARGARET TEL: 823366
16 HIGH STREET OLD TOWN TEL: 615555
8a SHEEP STREET HIGH WORTH TEL: 763618
HAVELOCK STREET SWINDON TEL: 619277 lb RODBOURNE ROAD SWINDON TEL: 614604
AND PA
WOOTTEN BASSETT 126 HIGH STREET TEL: 850081
THE ESTA TEAGENT THATTAKES CARE OF ALL THE DETAILS