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EXPRESS CYCLE SPECIALIST

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No. 112

•

July 1991

•

Circulation 10,500

96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon

(0793) 534907 & 513705

YOUTH ISSUES The 1980s in West Swindon saw a huge baby boom. if that was the decade of pre-school children, the 1 990s will be the decade of teenagers. How are adults and young people going to work out how best to respond to their needs? Starting on page 15 we publish a collection of articles designed to stimulate a debate in the community, which hopefully will lead to positive action for the future.

Theft leaves Andy angry Westlea fireman Andy Cresswell is really livid. The motorbike he uses to get to work has been stolen - the second in 9 months. For Andy a motorbike is essential because the Westlea fire station is not manned at night. If he is on duty, he has to be out of bed and in the fire engine within minutes. When the first bike was nicked he rushed out of the house to find he had no transport; his colleagues

had to attend the emergency without him. It could be a matter of life and death forsomeoneif Andyisunable to get to work to makeup the team. Andy lives in Mears Drive, Shaw and the motorbike was stolen between 1230am and 3am onThursday 20 June. Anybody who sees a red Suzuki 125cc, registration B298 VHT, is asked to call Swindon Police.

Diana remembered The unveiling of a statue honouring Swindon actress Diana Dors became a family affairwhen herson jasonLake and granddaughter Megan pulled away the cloth covering her on 14 June. Film producer David Puttnam, originally billed to present the statue to the public took a minor part. The larger than life bronze statue is located outside the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park MGM cinema. The £25,000 work by John Clinch was paid for by site developers Carter Commercial Developments and portrays Diana from her 1956 film 'Yield to the Night.'Diana Dors died of cancer in 1984. Diana Dors' son Jason Lake holds upgrandaughter Megan with the help offamily friend Sixties heart throb less Conrad

Royal honour for Tom The Queen's birthday on 17June was also special day for a West Swindon sports shop owner. For Tom Taylor, a partner in the newly opened Westside Sports at Shaw Village Centre, it was his last day in the Royal Air Force and he had just heard that he had been honoured for his service with the Royal Victorian Medal in the Queen's Birthday Honours List. Tom, from Selby Crescent, Freshbrook, served a total of seven and half years with the Queen's Flight. For the last five he was Chief Technician responsible for organising the servicing and maintenance for the three aircraft and two helicopters in the flight. Working with twentysix other ground crew in two shifts, Tom had to make sure that the aircraft wereboth mechanically perfect and spotlessly clean inside and out. During his time with the flight, he travelled all over the world on maintenance duties. On one trip to the east, the billet was a palace in Saudi Arabia. Tomwas completely taken aback when the captain of the Queen's Flight telephoned him with the good news. "1 was absolutely amazed; I had to hold onto something to steady myself," said Tom. He explained that service staff attached to the Royal household normally qualify for the Royal Victorian Medal after ten years, but in exceptional circumstances it is

.. Tom Taylor, VRM awarded for outstanding service after seven and half years. "1 have no idea why I was selected; I was doing the job to the best of my ability," said Tom. "It is a tremendous honour to be recognised by Her Majesty." With accumulated annual leave, re-settlement training and terminal leave, Tom actually left the Air Force in early March to get his Westside Sports business up and running. As a retirement gift, the Queen and Duke of Edingburgh sent a personally signed, framed photograph toTom. He will receive his medal at Buckingham Palace later in the year.

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For details of your local Counsellor, call Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on 873201

The Link has reported the imminent move of the Health Visitor team from their temporary base inToothill to the new Health Centre at the West Swindon Centre in the last two editions. All the dates which had been confidently given to us turned out to be wrong because the builders had not finished. It's just over 14 years sinceHealth Visitors first moved into the temporary accomodation at 5 and 6 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. After a building contract that has gone on for over 18 months (compared to Shaw

Ridge Leisure Park which took just 12), the Health Centre now has its new residents. Health service staff make their move on 28 June and will be ready to hold clinics from Monday I July.

Official opening The Swindon Health Authority is holding an Open Day at the new Health Centre next to the Link 27 July, from Centre on Saturday, lOam to 4pm. Everybody is invited to visit the new health facility and talk to staff.

On the move from Deerhurst Way, Toothill, from left, Geraldine Piper, lane Lyons, Guy Montezuma, Barbara Monk, Janet Asherson and Eileen Towner

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ffiIthk MD%1$ Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising." Contents 4 Toothill Apple Macintosh design, layout 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park and lasersetting by Keystrokes 7 Westlea Electronic Design & Green Tendencies Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol 8 Shaw 10 Local Lives Published monthly. 11 Recreation 12 At Your Library Copy date for the 13 Arts Scene August edition: 14 News and Views 15 24 Youth Issues 15th of July Political Points 25 The August edition will be 26 Letters & Small Ads. published on 26 July

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

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Thanks for the returns Many thanks to the 219 people who filled in and sent back the survey form published in the June edition of The Link. We will be analysing them over the next few weeks and will publish a general comment on the responses in a future edition. And the winners The five names drawn from the entry slips returned with the survey forms to receive £10 prizes are: Mrs Shappcott, Russley Close, Peatmoor H.S. Harris, Godolphin Close, Freshbrook Paul Long, Conisborough, Toothill Florence Rankin, Eworth Close, Grange Park Mrs J. Hall, Mortimer Close, Shaw

The Link Magazine's 1991 Guide to West Swindon is available from the Community Suite at the Link Centre. WEST is invaluable to anybody who needs information about who to contact and the facilities in the area. The Community Suite also holds a comprehensive range of information about local groups and activities which newcomers will find useful. Staff are available during office hours and on Tuesday evenings. Telephone 871212.

Bargain holiday for Westlea family The Garrett family from Westlea has just returned from a great holiday which they won from an advertisement in The Link. They won a week at a brand new resort in the Canary Islands, compliments of Regal Holidays, which is run by two West Swindon residents. Regal are operating a new concept in holidays. They can offer a family of up to four people a luxury apartment from just £75 a week and can arrange flights at competitive rates. Partner GeorgeSaunders visits clients in theirhomes toexplain what they can expect at the resort and to make all the arrangements. This impressed Janet Garrett from Whittington Road. "As we both work, it's very difficult to fix up a holiday and we didn't want a package. We liked the idea that some- Showing off their tans in the cool British body came to us to talk about the weather, Lauren and Louis and Janet different resorts available and to Garrett and partner John Stanley make the arrangements for car hire huge swimming pool and a doctor and insurance. We booked the as well as lots of people on site to flights, but Regal can do this as well." help out. "There's lots to see on the island, The resort at Cala Blanca turned out to be exactly as described, an- we just want to go back with Regal other plus for the Garretts. "It was as soon as possible. We'd recomabsolutely fantastic. Spotlessly mend them to anybody." Regal Holidays can be contacted clean, luxurious, well equipped, right next to the sea and beaches, a on 432462.

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TOOTH ILL

Centre's Annual Meeting considers problems

RALPH PALMER PHARMACY

Toothill Community Centre's Annual will be discussing a major financial General Meeting on Friday 28 June crisis. At present only eight groups rent rooms whilst takings in the centre bar Lunch club help have been dropping. needed 3 Deerhurst Way Unft)rtunately many Toothill readToothill Lunch Club is desperate for ers of The Link will miss the opportuToothill some voluntary help. At present nity to take part in the discussion bethree OAPs are preparing and serv- cause the centre has not used themagaHours of Opening: ing lunch to4() to 50 other pensioners zine to publicise the meeting, as in preMon - Fri and then doing the washing up. vious years. 9a.m. - 1p.m. The club meets on Wednesday in A spokeswoman for the centre said 230p.m. - 6p.m. Toothill Community Centre and help would be welcomed at any time beSat, 9a.m. - 12 noon tween 9am and 2.30pm. Telephone Mrs Lily Wiley on Telephone: 512063 495644 A playgroup has nearly been put out with offers of assistance. of action because of the financial crisis at Toothill Community Centre. Dunwich Drive Playgroup was rocked in early June by the news that its room rent was to rise fromil .50 to £4 an hour. After hurried negotiations between the playgroup committee of volunteer parents and the community centre management, it was agreed that the rent should be an hour. However the damage had Hours of Business been done and parents had withSunday 6 -1130am drawn their children from the group Monday Closed all day thinking that fees would have to rise Tuesday 5 -1130pm dramatically. Wednesday 12 - 145pm 5- 11.3Opm The two afternoon sessions had to Thursday 12 - 1.45pm 5- 11.3Opm be shut immediately for lack of chilFriday 12-1.45pm 5 - 1200am dren. Management of the playgroup Saturday 12 - 200pm 5 - 1200am was thrown into confusion because OPEN ALL BANK HOUDAYS (MONDAY) the committee did not know how many places to advertise as available. Now the playgroupis appealing to parents to bring their children back. Play leader Janet Freeguard said, 'The group has been doing very well for the last twelve months but when the rumours of rent and possibly fee increases started to circulate, it

there had been so many problems that she hadn't given a thought to using the magazine. It had not been necessary as a notice had appeared in the evening pa per, as required by theconstitution,and leaflets had been distributed in the area. She attributed the lack of bookings to the problems users had from teenagers hanging around outside and people having less money to spend in the bar.

Playgroup under pressure

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Staff and children having a good time at Toothill Tots, despite setbacks

knocked us for six. We've sorted out the problem and there is no increase in fees. Parents should think of what their children are missing and bring them back." Thegrouphaschanged its name to Toothill Tots, to give it a more local identity.

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The Toothill Jack and Jill Toddler Group enjoyed a day out at Bristol Zoo on the proceeds of a sponsored slide earlier in the year. Nearly E200 was raised which paid for the trip and some new toys. The group meets on Tuesdays between lOam and 11.30am at Toothill Farm and is looking for new members. For more information, contact Jenny Piatek on 616432.

Kate walks a mile A sprightly pensioner from Toothill raised over £100 for orthopaedic research in early June. Eighty-eightyearold KateKilburn, who lives in Salzgitter Court elderly person's group dwelling, took part in the Great Hip Walk at Swindon's County Ground for ex-hip or knee replacement patients. She joined 120 others in a national walk to raise £1 million for research. Kate had her left knee joint replaced a couple of years ago and demonstrated her new-found mobility by walking a mile. She collected £102 through sponsorship. Kate Kilburn putting her best leg forward

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CLUB CALA BLANCA Club Cala Blanca overlooks the water park and beach of Taurito Bay which nestles between the rugged mountainous interior and sparkling ocean. Around the headland is the newly discovered fishing village and marina of Mogan presenting the perfect contrast between old and new. Cala Blanca offers elegance of design with panoramic views from the large balcony of each luxury apartment which also feature a fully-equipped kitchen, colour TV, video and elephone. Restaurant guests enjoy a choice of international and island cuisine in air-conditioned comfort.

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* Bandama Crater, an extinct volcano almost two-thirds of a mile across, and the village of Arucas and Guia * Las Palmas, the chief town of the Island and largest In all of the Canaries, a major historical and commercial centre, a cosmopolitan resort and seaport * Playa del lngles, the largest tourist centre on Gran Canada with huge shopping centres, countless restaurants, cafes and discos * Mogan, until recently a remote mountain village, but now combines with an exclusive marina with cosy bistros and boutiques

Call your local office on (0793) 432462 (24 hours) or write to Regal Holidays (Southern) Ltd. Shaftesbury Centre, Percy Street, Rodboume, Swindon

Gran Canaria is second to none for its perfect beaches and sophisticated night-life, for its history and hubbub, off-beat sightseeing and shopping. With a sub-tropical climate all year-round the coastline ranges from awe-inspiring cliffs to golden dunes. Inland you can choose between stark mountains and tranquil valleys.

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More birthday celebrations Freshbrook School continued to celebrate its tenth birthday at the beginning of June when all 670 children, 50 staff and 100 parents had a picnic lunch on the school field. Each child tasted a morsal of the

seven birthday cakes specially baked for the occasion. Freshbrook School's first staff Chris Finney and Anne-Marie Salmon about to set on a cake held by headteacher Phillip Gurney

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Lunch invitation Readers are invited to attend a Hunger Lunch being served by the 2nd Freshbrook Brownies atFreshbrook Church, 12.30pm on Saturday 13 July. On the menu will be a Cheese Roll and a Brownie (chocolate). If you can't attend a donation equivalent to a normal lunch will be welcomed and will be sent to the Tear Fund for Third World projects. Pictured below are some of the Brownies with the 18 jumpers they've knitted since Easter for Kurdish refugees

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Suppliers of commercial stationery, office machinery and accessories and office furniture. Repair and maintenance service available on most office machinery.

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Footpath conflict movement Our story about the dangers to pedestrians from cyclists using an underpass has stimulated Thamesdown Council officers to look at reducing the conflicts. A white line was painted on the footpath in April showing a cycle route. Since then cyclists have been speeding down the hill from Grange Park believing that no pedestrians will be on their side of the route. This is not always the case and there have been several near misses and a lot of abusive comments. Children and parents walking home from Oliver Tomkins School have been particularly vulnerable. Now Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton, who was behind the white

line in the first place, has called in council engineers to look at the problem. He originally argued for a barrier at the corner by the underpass but was overruled on cost grounds and the 'wait-and-see what happens' principle. Hopefully barriers can be erected soon to separate the footpath users and prevent a serious accident.

Table Top Sale Saturday 13 July, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre Table for hire £4 & £5 Tel 871017 (day) or 872450 (eve).

WESTLEA

Wildlife takes a hold at school Three years hard work to improve the environment around Westlea School and provide pupils with a natural source of study came togetherduringa week devoted to the Environment recently. A pond built by parents in 1989 was the first major project and is now the habitat for frogs, insect life and many wet land plants. Since then staff and pupils have built a wild flower garden, shrub beds to attract butterflies and bees,a rockery and a patchwork garden. The rose garden will soon be the site of a bench built and presented to the school by the fatherof a teacher who died soon after leaving the school. Each class took on a task during the week of events to brighten up or improve the school environment. Window boxes were planted, canal buckets painted, trees surveyed, bottle gardens made, a nearby stream was cleared and a bird and trellis garden were built. Head teacher Neil Griffiths said a lot of thanks should be given to green fingered teacher Ann Wang who brings in masses of plants and

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Infants Claire Branson and Stuart Ross with some of the canal barge ware deco-

rated by the children

keeps up enthusiasm for the environmental care. The next project is to redesign and convert a patio into a quiet reading area. This will also involve children in bricklaying to build raised flower beds for children in wheelchairs.

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MAD DOGS & ENGLISHMEN STAY COOL IN THE MIDDAY SUN

These three trees in leaf, newly planted next to the Health Centre were wantonly destroyed late on Friday 7 or early Saturday8June. Werethere any witnesses? Will anybody own up?

WITH:

Free test Does your car meet the new exhaust emission standards which will be introduced to the MOT Test later this year? Titcombe Garage at Westmead Estate is offering a FREE test to see if your car does. Telephone 641643.

No more compost please The long running saga of the Greendown Copse compost tip has been sorted out. It has been taken away. Articles in The Link featuring a community clean up in the copse organised by local councillors, a complaintby local residents that the compost was not being used or managed properly and an exchange of views on our letters page resulted in a decision by Thamesdown

Council to remove the tip and its contents. Although the compost containers have gone, some residents are still dumping ga rd en refuse in the Copse. Please stop doing so and use the municipal dump at Bamfiold Road. Thamesdown Council is considering how a Borough wide organic and recyclable refuse collection service can be run.

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New play area invites a fatality by Louise Wilkes A group of anxious parents living in Worlidge Drive, Shaw are wonted that speed ingdriven will kill one of theirchildren and have been fighting for more safety measures foroverl8 months. TheLinkfeaturcd the issue in August 1989.

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4 GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE US FOR YOUR PIZZA 1. Prices - Why pay more? Due to our low overheads we able to charge, on average, up to 20% less than our nearest competitors. Please compare prices. 2. Value for Money. Are you paying more and getting less? We give generous toppings everytime. Thin crust or deep pan - Every pizza a feast! 3. Free Delivery - All pizza orders delivered Free. No minimum order. If you receive The Link magazine through your door, then you are in are in our Free Delivery Area. 4. Now Under New Ownership. We are committed to giving existing and new customers the best possible service at all times. Try us. You won't be disappointed.

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Not the 'Green Cross Code,' Jane Hillier and Jackie Cross demonstratehaw to cross Cartwright Drive with their children to the new play area as a car speeds round the blind bend Worlidge Drive is oneofa number of cul-de-sacs leadingoffCartwright Drive, a long 'S' shaped road with dangerous blind bends at both ends. A small play area provided by a house builder across the road was the only play facility close-by until a few weeks ago when a new play park provided by Thamesdown Council was completed. The excitement of the children to try the new equipment is equalled by the fear of parents who believe that a child attracted across Cartwright Drive will be injured. Jane Hillier a mother of two described the problem and the accidents she has already witnessed, "The road really is deadly, no matter where you stand you can't see the cars from either direction until they are practically on top of you. We have been on at the Council to put up some signs for over a year now, but so far all they've done is removed a few bushes. "We've seen a van wrap itself around a lamppost and a parked car was completely written off when a driver saw it too late and failed to stop. The trouble is people just don't realize the shape of the road and take the corners too fast," Jane was told by a council officer that the newly opened Mead Way leading to Nine Elms, would ease the traffic flow on Cartwright Drive, but as Jackie Cross, another mum, explained it has had practically the opposite effect. "It takes longer to get to Nine Elms by the new road so more and more cars are using Cartwright Drive as shortcut. I've watched the children line up and then run across the road as fast as they can. The cars come and go so fast that if they don't run they won't make it." The worst time is late afternoon

when all the children are out of school and people are coming home from work in their cars. Many parents now feel that it is not safe enough for their children to cross the road alone and have to escort them to and from the park. "The park is a novelty at the moment so the children want to spend as much time as they can there," said Jackie. "But you're never quite sure when they want to come home, so they don't understand why we have to restrict them from going if we can't escort them." Jackie Cross and Jane Hillier are continuing to plead with the Council for speed humps or sign posts to warn people of the danger. But they fear the only way anyone is going to takeany notice of them is if someone gets killed. A Thamesdown Council spokeswoman said she would be investigating where Jane Hillier's last complaint got to and whether more action was possible.

Lollipop Toddler Group For parents and 2 to 4 year olds. Holy Trinity Church, Shaw. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 130pm - 330pm. Anyone interested in joining should phone Andrea Parker on 881343 any weekday 10am-6pm for waiting list details.

Jumble Sale Saturday 6 July 1 .3Opm - 3.00pm Admission lop Moredon Community Centre Organised by Shaw WI Proceeds to WI funds with a donation to CLIC Anyone with jumble to donate should telephone 873234

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LOCAL LIVES

Catching dogs with Tessa Dogs have been big news lately. So we had a chat with the Borough's one and only dog warden about the job she loves. The Thamesdown Dog Warden's van pulled up outside and dogcatcher Tessa Pritchard jumped out, leaving the engine running, "Can't stop, just had a call to pick up a stray over at Windmill Hill Business Park. Want to come along?" Well what better than doing an interview over a cup of coffee than seeing the woman on the job? So off we went. Tessa comes fromSwindon and presently lives inToothill. She's worked with dogs since leaving school and when the dog warden job with Thamesdown Council came up late last year, she was in there telling the interviewers that it wasn't worth talking to anybody else. At the time she was improving her knowledgeof Swindon stnts by driving a delivery van. That was just a fill-in job after returning from South Africa where she had managed a 500 dog kennel. Arriving at National Power the security guard sentus to thewrong carpark. Justas well because the high-tech offices made a great backdrop for a photo. Finding our way to the front entrance, the first security guard had obviously radioed another to say we were on our way and she and dog were outside waiting for the pick-up. After a brief chat about what a nice dog he was and a chance for pooch to have a sniff at the other doggie smells onTessa's trousers and trainers, it was back for the photo call next to the wire cages in the rear of the van. Then out came the clip board with the inevitable report form to fill out. Tessa discovered how important it was keep accurate records a few weeks ago when somebody accused her of taking six hours to pickup a stray, when in fact she had arrived very quickly after the report had been made. Sitting in her van keeping the dog (without identification) company, Tessa described her job. When she started as the only Dog Warden covering Thamesdown last December, the Borough had been without one for a year. 'There were dogs everywhere, individually and running in packs," said Tessa. "I'd go to an estate and I wouldn't know where to start!" However she got in there and rounded them up. Six months later, many of the complaints about stray dogs are made before and after she comes on duty. She reckons that some owners know the hours she works and will control their animals during the day to avoid the aggravation of talking to her if she has to come round. Tessa's day is normally taken up with driving

round the Borough on patrol. Often she has to concentrate on an area where a dog is repoted wandering around, perhaps its been shut out for the day. If she finds it, she persuades it onto her leash and into the van it goes. At other times she's called to pick up an animal which has been caught and needs to be removed. If it has identification she'll take it home. If the dog can't be identified, she calls at Swindon Police Station to see if it tallies with any reports of lost dogs. If she's unsuccessful, it's off to the dog pound where the animal has seven days to be claimed or found a new home. If not, it's destroyed. In fact destruction rates are low, about 1 in 20 dogs brought into the pound have to be put down. But we're now coming up to her busy period says Tessa. "People get their dog at Christmas, but at this time of the year they're thinking of holidays and some, rather than pay kennel fees, will just kick them out before they go away and get another when they come back. Apart from abandoned dogs, the warm weather and the mating season create problems for owners and for Tessa. "Even the best owners have problems. If a dog can smell another ready to mate a few miles away, his instincts will often

overcome all the training he's had and he's off. "They'll run in packs and they'll always fight amongst each other to find who's the top dog. I'd like to see a lot more neutering of dogs to modify their behaviour and to reduce the number of unwanted puppies." Tessa is also in favour of registration, although she wasn't convinced when she started her job. There are an estimated 18,000 to 20,000 dogs in the Borough, but nobody knows. With a tattoo, micro chip or a visible tag, she would be able to return dogs to their owners and to talk about how they should kept more safely. As she says, 'We're given a job to do, but few teeth to do it with." As for dogs teeth, touch wood, she's never been bitten at work. "I know it's tempting fate admitting as much, but you get to know how a dog is behaving and whether to approach it or not. I've got armoured gloves, a pole and a sonic stunner, but rarely use them. "I once had a Doberman who thought it was going to eat me, but the owner came of the shop in time and said it was my uniform which had provoked him!" Tessa holds the opinion that Dobermans and Rottweilers are no more dangerous than other dogs. "If it's got teeth, it'll bite you in certain situations. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a different matter. It's bred to fight and is very dangerous." She doesn't know of any American Pit Bulls in Swindon and feels sorry for the several Staffordshire Bull Terriers in the area who are amiable animals, but are going to be picked on. As for owners, Tessa believes that the majority are good, but you sense that her majority is somewhere around 52%. 'People have got to become more responsible towards their dogs. It's not the dogs fault if it's running the streets or making a noise. Owners not only need to think about how they treat their animals, but also how other people are affected by them as well. "I reckon my personal motto is 'dogs need better owners." At that point the radio crackled. " calling No. 41 ....we've gotanotherdog foryou to pickup in Westminster Road,Toothill. He's wandering the streets and has nearly caused two accidents." And that was our interview over. As Tessa pulled on her seat belt she said, "Just let them know there's only one dog warden to cover Thamesdown, so I can't be everywhere."

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RECREATION

Martial Arts masters Steve Cole reports: The locally based Swindon Ju-Jitsu Club picked up a collection of awards in the first World Ju-Jitsu Federation competition held at the end of May. Until now Ju-Jitsu contests have been rare as it is a pure martial art and is not classed as a sport. Ten senior and junior members of the club, which meets at Greendown School, entered the competition. Club coach Quentin Ball was awarded first in the weapens section and second in the Kata (set sequence display fighting). Twelve year old Lia Colucci took first in the junior Kata and Andrew Moody was second in the lighweight free fighting section. Anyone interested in studying Ju-Jitsu is welcome to visit the club at Greendown on Monday or Thursday evenings. The junior class

Your local television channel Come and see us in the Link and Oasis Leisure Centres Tel: 0793 431915 Pictured with their awards, rear left to right, Andrew Moody, Lie Colucci, Quentin Ball. Front, Andrew Wilkinson, Matthew Hagger, Nicholas Huntley, Phillip Wilkinson is held between 6.30pm and 8pm, adults from 8pm to 10pm. For further information, call Steve Cole on 872445.

Westsiode Sports . Show Village Centre,Shaw

Try a bounce with Springs 'n Things

Tel: 875712

Lincoln's Summer Camp Camp A 29 July -2 August Camp B 5 August -9 August Camp C 12 August -16 August Camp D 19 August -23 August

Children's Competition Win a Personal Stereo

Going on a day trip or away on holiday this summer? If so, send a postcard to Lincoln the Bear and you could win a personal stereo or one of many other prizes. Give your NAME and HOME ADDRESS and towards the end of the summer all of the postcards will be put into a prize draw. All postcards will be put on public display as they arrive throughout the summer. Send them to: Lincoln the Bear, do Link Centre, Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL.

9.30am - 330pm each day Price £4.10 per day An opportunity to try just about every indoor activity possible! Skating, swimming,ballsports, racquet sports, team games, arts and crafts, plus the bouncy castle. Bookings will be taken from Tuesday 9 July, 10.00am - 1000pm Further details available from Main Reception, telephone 871212.

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At the Link Centre Link Centre will take the bumps out of skating this summer forFREE. At the morning session between lOam -12 noon, Monday 29 July -Friday 2 August, all beginners will receive a FREE lesson. Learn to skate forwards, stop and handle bends without falling over! They'll also give you a 'FREE return ticket' for your next visit. Please note that the admission price for lOam - 12 noon session is E1.85 adults, E1.20 concessions. Skate hire just 60p.

(between JCR & Show Church) S1tEA TmtL

• GET FIT, STAY AT • GET FIT, STAY FIT . GET AT, STAY AT • GET AT, STAY AT

EXERCISE CLASSES BY DESIGN LTD Wednesdays 7pm-8pm The Absolute Beginners with Lee An Exercise Class specially designed for those people who have not exercised for some time and need a gentle re-introduction. Suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities The Gym, Greendown School

Tuesdays 7.30pm- 8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm Up Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool Down. Suitable for Beginners/Intermediates The Gym, Greendown School Bodies By Design Ltd. is sponsored by

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With Lee Hogan M.P.E.A, R.S.A. Sundays 6pm-7.1 5pm Fitness Training with Lee Circuit Training, Stamina Building, Team Games. Mainly for Men, but who cares? You've got to start somewhere. Sports Hall, Greendown School Sundays 7.30 pm-8.3Opm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm up, Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool down. Suitable for beginners/Intermediates. The Gym, Greendown School Everyone Welcome

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A local trampoline club has spaces for new members. Springs 'nmings meets at Greendown School on two evenings in the week and has places for children on Monday evenings betweens 6pm and 8pm, and for adults on Thursday between 8pm and 10pm. The club has three coaches and about 40 members who take part in both recreational and competition trampolining. For more information, contact Louise Walker on 876333. Right: Crash diving Martin Stratford

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Charity Market The last Link Centre charity market before the summer break is on Saturday 20 July. There are bargains galore available from the stalls arranged by a variety of community groups. The next market takes place on 21 September and therafter on the third Saturday of the month. Stalls are available and new groups are welcome. To book, telephone the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234.

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MAINTENAN

Summer Activities at the library by Phil Edwards and Jacqueline Else Lots of information for you this month. The first is that Phil has had a baby - or rather his wife has! Its a girl, Nianh (not pronounced as it is spelt - ask Phil) Sabina, weighing in at a hefty 9lbs 8 oz. I'm sure you'd like to take this opportunity of wishing them all the very best. Another piece of good news: the mobile library has been saved. Alterations are being made to its schedules in order to serve more homes and residences for older people. The changes will take effect from September. As it's summer, we thought we'd be seasonal in our choice of theme for this year's holiday activities for children - the theme is ICE! All 'cool dudes' are invited along to West Swindon library - its free. There will be three activity sessions and a free 'ice pack' with word searches, puzzles, a test of your imagination and the chance to win a prize. Please note these details in your diary: Thursday 8 August, 10.30am 1130am. 'Ice Creation' -cut, stick and glue to create your own snow scene, or make an ice mobile. Thursday 15 August, 1030am I1.30am. 'Sleighday' -help us build and decorate a 'sleigh train' to use in the library. Younger ones can make their own sleighs. Cardboard boxes and materials will be provided.

Thursday 22 August, 10.30 1130am. 'Ice Imagination' -create an ice face with face-paints or make your own mask. It's also a chance to make an ice collage. Don't miss the fun - it's all free The weekly stolytime session for under5s on Wednesdays at I 0.3Oam will continue with special 'ice' stories. The Link Centre ice rinkstaff have joined forces with us for the 'ice' theme and will put on an exhibition in the library during July and August. They will also run a competition, which adults as well as children can enter, so please do come along. During July, the library will also be hosting an exhibition called 'Historical Bites'. This is organised by the Wiltshire Museums Department who describe it as 'a taste of Wiltshire's historical and traditional food'. We aim to have a wide range of topics for exhibition at West Swindon library and are always on the lookout for fresh ideas. If you have a particular interest, hobby or craft and could mount an exhibition of a good standard do contact us. It may be of local or more general interest. If it's a craft you may like to give demonstrations during the period of the exhibition. Interested? Call us on 871444

Personal histories Se:

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A book which describes the lives of people from the West Indies who have come to live in Swindon will be launched on 8 July at the Link Arts Studio. "We only cameforfive years...." is a collection of personal accounts, recipes and ring play rhymes put togetherby members of the Thamesdown Age Concern Caribbean lunch club which meets in the town centre. The title comes from a story written by Doris White who thought she would stay in Britain for a few years but has been here for 25.

Ten members of the lunch club contributed to the book which has been put together with the help of Debs Osorio from the Swindon College Basic Education Project over eighteen months. Club member William Leslie said that most of contributors did not think they could write. "We had been talking about putting our memories down, but we needed a little encouragement to get going." Now that one book has been published, the group is thinking about another writing project.

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ARTS SCENE

What's on at Link Arts in July

Car Boot Sale

GARDEN WORK

by Shane Hewitt, Recreation Trainee At the end of the entertainment sea- New York USA). Ideal for 8-14year son and before the summer sun olds. All tickets £5.10 shines down on us(?!), we at Link Carnival Hop with Edward 11 Arts intend to give you some hot and the Red Hot Polkas entertainment of ourown! So come Saturday 13 July, 800pm. Enjoy a and join in with the carnival at- summer time celebration in the mosphereatLink Arts this month.... company of this eight piece band Film who combine reggae rhythms with Thursday 4 July, 7.45prn. 'Do the a dynamic brass section, smoulderRight Thing' (12). It's the hottest ing vocals and traditional English day of the year in Brooklyn and folk. £4.60/0.60. racial tensions are high ... SpikeLee's Exhibition film moves from comedy to social 5 July - 26 July. Bickle The Cook comment with ease. £2.30/1.80 Book Photograph Album 'The cuisine of a country mirrors its plus £1.00 membership. cultures, its values, history and Paint & Dance Workshop Saturday 6 July, 10.00am - 5.00pm. modes of expression' (Sir Philip The Swindon Carnival theme is ex- Sherlock, University ofWestlndies). plored with trained artist Vanesa The photographic exhibition from Godfrey and dancer Fiona Chaney, Jubilee Arts (West Midlands) is a (ex London Contemporary Dance celebration of black culture, in parSchool and Martha Graham School, ticular afro-caribbean food.

Saturday 13 July, 10.30am Link Centre Coach Park £5;6 Tel: 873368 In aid of 1st Toothull Scouts

Patios • Block Paving • Tree, Hedge & Grass Cutting • Rotovating • Rubbish Removal & Delivery Service Tel: 480527

RICH-WOOD PROJECTS

has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar.

Carpentry, Joinery and Design Service

Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged

Ring Richard Zych on 875286

Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24 hrs)

Africa comes to school The sound of drums and chant songs reverberated around Freshbrook School on 1 7June when members of the Adzido Pan African Dance Ensemble visited to teach some dances and African rhythems. Thirty-five children of all ages spent a whole day singing and rehearsing a marriage celebration dance from Ghana called Tokwe which they will perforrnat the school fete on 29 June. Caroline Haywood, the teacher who coordinated the day, said the childrenatreallyenjoyed themselves learning about another culture and had worked very hard. Kwame Adams and Tony Brand put energy into the dance

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Mel moves on Link Arts coordinator Mel Jones left his post at the end of June after six years in Swindon to take up a job as general manager of the Milton Keynes Arts Workshop Trust. During the two years at the Link Centre, he has concentrated effort with his Administrative Assistant Clary Bean on developing previously underdeveloped activities such as, music, comedy, photography, writing, childrens activities and work with thedisabled and schools. He was involved in several events in the community including the annual Toothill bonfire night. The results of his work are only just showing said Mel. "It takes a for all interests at Link Arts. It's long time to get the ball rolling but been an exciting time to be here and there is a richand varied programme I've mixed feelings about leaving."

-.wood

If you have a West Swindon story, call 872282

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MORTGAGE HEADACHES? TAX PROBLEMS? BUSINESS WORRIES? Steel Hodges Ockwell, Accountants & Tax Advisors, can help with all your financial and business planning and tax problems. Our FIMBRA registered company, Financial Advisory Centre, can also provide professional, friendly and impartial advice on raising money - either for business or buying your own home, investments and pensions. Contact Caroline Ockwell at 163 Victoria Road. Swindon. Telephone: 430303

NEWS &VIEWS

Family takes on pizza business A West Swindon family are putting all their efforts into getting a bigger slice of the pizza market. After ten years rushing around the country setting up fast food outlets as area manager for Coach Caterers, Mike Grey from Grange Park is buying Pizzarama atShaw Village Centre from them. "1 had had enough of constantly travelling and being away from the family," said Mike. "Solapproached my employers and asked them if I could buy one of their shops." As a recognition of Mike's service the company readily agreed and will continue to give Pizzarama support. Now Mike and his family are joining the battle for the pizza eating public. Despite the recession, Pizzarama is doing very well and Mike is confident that putting in the personal touch will help it do even better. "Pizzarama was the first home delivery service in West Swindon four years ago and although there is more competition now, the market has expanded. More people are eating pizza and I'm sure there are still people who haven't tried one yet. "As a family run business we're in a good position to both keep costs down and provide a personal service to our customers."

Dual role police work Policeman Gary O'Donague from Freshbrook decided to combine family duties with his work at his daughter's playgroup on 17 June. Wearing jeans and T-shirt, he spent the first part of the morning in the Oliver Tomkins Playgroup painting and playing with the children. After milk time, Gary reappeared in uniform to the surprise of the children and read a story about saying No to strangers. As a beatofficerwith theSwindon South Division, the visit was Gary's first attempt at community liaison. He said, "As I was down on the parent's rota I thoughtl would break a few barriers as well. Some of the children were a bit taken aback when

I appeared in uniform, but we quickly started talking about how important it was to make sure your parents know where you are and tell somebody if a stranger tries to talk to you." He said it was unfortunate that some parents put their children in fear of policemen when in fact children should know who to turn to when they need help. "The television image of the policeman chasing criminals all the time does not give a good impression of the kind of work we do in the community." The playgroup staff were pleased with the helpful session run by Gary and he is hoping to offer his services to other groups in the area.

Gary surrounded by the children at Oliver Tomkins Playgroup c

Mike and Kath Grey with daughter Rebecca

Pizzarama's prices are about 20% less than its competitors and Mike's aim is to keep it that way whilst serving consistently good quality pizzas. To celebrate the Grey family's takeover, for the first two weeks of July, Pizzarama is offering two free toppings of your choice on any basic cheese and tomato pizza - a saving of between 90p and ÂŁ1.50 per pizza.

"UG your kids at home

BELT thorn in the car Swindon Seat Belt Centre Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate Sheppard Street, Swindon Tel: 488622

Protect your child's head Buy a cycle helmet for the summer holidays Lives can be saved and injuries avoided to young cyclists if they wear a helmet Available from good cycle shops Sponsored by the Brendan Ball Dental Surgery Freshbrook Village Centre

Protect your child's nut Nationally 5,000 cyclists are killed or seriously injured each year and there are a further 20,000 slight injuries in road accidents. In Wiltshire, one child was killed and 108 were injured last year. Many cyclists involved in accidents will have sustained injuries to the head and thesecouldbeavoided if they had been wearing a crash helmet. Children at local schools have been offered the chance to buy a low cost crash helmets for cyclists and parents should have received a letter with the details. Helmets nowadays are attrac-

tively designed in bright colours to overcome resistance to wearing them. If a school has not sent out details of the helmet offer, ask why not. Alternatively, details of helmets and other road safety matters can be obtained from 851423. â€˘ The Leisure Channel is featuring the 'Get a Head Start' campaign on their multi-screen TV system at the Link Centre. The Wiltshire County Council Road Safety Unit won a prize run by the Leisure Channel at a recent Business Exhibition and are using the month's fiuu advertising to promote the use of cycle helmets.

Three protected nuts at the Under 5s Festival Safety Day in June - the Thompson triplets from Shaw Ridge, Natasha, Oliver and Katherine. with Margaret Tester, Area Road Safety Officer for Wiiltshire County Council

YOtTh ISSUES Getting a debate underway This year West Swindon is 15 years old. Since 1976when the first residents moved in, the area has become a distinct community of about 10,300 homes and has a population ofnearly 30,000. Pre-school children have been a significant part of the community for most of this time and their parents are well organised in various groups. However over the next ten years the proportion of school age children and teenagers will grow significantly. The graph on the right shows children aged 11 to 15 living in West Swindon who are and will be in secondary school until the year 2000. By then the numbers will be almost double the 1990 figure. At a guess there will be a further 2,000 16 to 20 year olds living in the area by the year 2000, making a total of around 4,500 11 to 20 year olds. Compare this number with the approximate 1,900 people in this age group today and you can see we will have a large, energetic, demanding group in the community exerting their needs in many different ways. Many adults will ask why special attention should be focused on 'youth.' Young people today, particularly in West Swindon, have more attractions and opportunities than ever available to them. On the other hand, this age group seems to have far more pressure placed upon it nowadays - to do well in school, to keep up with fashions and in many cases cope with parents in conflict with each other. The transition between childhood and adult has never been easy. In fact it's getting more difficult. It's all very well to say that the attractions of the Link Centre and the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park will provide for them, but these are expensive facilities. Looking to local youth

workers to 'deal' with young people is just passing the buck. The questions The Link magazine wants to put to people who live in the area; are we as a community in a position to consider with youngpeople what their needs are? Are we prepared to respond to those needs? Over the next few pages we have asked a variety of people to consider the challenges facing both adults and young people. We hope these contributions will start a debate which will stimulate positive action for the future. Let's not look back during the next five or ten years and regret the missed opportunities. We will welcome comments on the issue.

Over the next ten pages Page 16 17

18 18 19 20 21

22 23 24

Tony Hillier - Pre-School groups as an example Marion Northam - Parents and Teenagers, Building Bridges Louise Wilkes - Youth Scene The changes seen by parent Councillor Sue Bates - Youth Resources in West Swindon A young people's centre at Toothill Farm Carl Bown and Jo Marchment - 'The Youth'. ...is this our atttitude towards young people Paul Ryan - Preparing for 'youth' through play Marie Crane, an unusual woman Laurence Yeoman - The opportunities for adults and young people to be involved

West Swindon children in secondary school (11 to 16) 1990 - 2000 Information From Children in West Swindon Primary and Secondary Schools Survey conducted by Wiltshire County Council Education Deportment and Swindon Area Health Authority Births Statistics (Numbers from 1992 onwards are projected from children already in schools and do not take account of migration in and out of the area) 3000

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Trendsetting Toddlers Teach Teenagers by Tony Hillier, Community Activities Officer at the link Centre only meagre finding and a large band of adults giving freely of their time and skills, the many children aged under five who live in West Swindon are fortunate to be provided with a variety of opportunities for their care and personal growth into early childhood. There is no national or local government legislation which says that this must happen. It is just that the West Swindon community is sufficiently motivated to do it. Organisations such as, Wiltshire County Council, Thamesdown Toddlers have the Template Borough Council, the Churches, In writing about teenagers I must the Pre-School Playgroup Assocbegin with the Under Fives. With iation etc. and private industry have been prepared to give their support to this work.

Look Who's Talking Admittedly I am a recent newcomer to the area - moving to Swindon some 6 months ago and taking up my job at the Link Centre. However, I am a qualified Youth Worker and have several years' experience of working in the Youth Service in Hemel Hempstead (running a caravan and landrover mobile detached project) and in Wandsworth in a large purpose built Youth Club on the Bnehampton Estate and in a Youth Equal Opportunities Resource Centre.

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better for plans to be made and actions to be taken to build up sufficient appropriate provision for West Swindon teenagers.

The Sky is the Limit What can be done? What is possible is only bounded by the limits of the commitment of the community to enhancing the quality of life of its many teenagers. If we can do it for the toddlers then we can do it for the teenager. Careful thought and meaningful consultation with young people must first take place in order to have a chance of guaranteeing that what is on offer is attractive and relevant to their needs.

Talk On! Progress on the issue can be brought about by maintaining the dialogue A Vacuum Ripe for Filling amongst ourselves in private and in Upon initial investigation of youth public until we can muster the resources in West Swindon it appears organisation and resources to make to me that whilst acknowledging the necessary provision. the good work that is currently being done, if we consider the Adults are the Key current and predicted numbers of The key to it all will be those teenagers a growing gap is emerging individuals from within the between what is needed and the community who put themselves breadth and quantity of what is forward to work with and spend provided. time with young people on a regular There has been much in the local and committed basis. These may press over recent months and many work voluntarily or be paid and may meetings have been held at which be full or part time. 'the teenager' has been a major Two things are crucial: there topic. The time has never been must be enough of them and they must be appropriately supported and trained to do the job. It's not Haydon End Lane everybody's cup oftea to work with Entrance of Lady Lane and teenagers but it is both challenging Westfield Way, Haydon Wick and fun provided that workers are Tel: Swindon 721221 not thrown in at the deep end and left to sink. OPEN DAILY To those readers even slightly tempted to give it a try I would say 'throw your hat in the ring and catch up on the latest fashions and jokes and enjoy the vitality, freshness and imagination of the adolescent.'

VISIT YOUR LOCAL GARDEN CENTRE THIS WEEKEND • Trees Shrubs • Alpines' Heathers • Conifers • Roses • Herbaceous Perennials • Bedding Plants, Geraniums & Fuschias. Hanging Baskets • Rockery and walling stone • Discounts on all composts

PURCHASE OR EXCHANGL YOUR HIA GIFT TOKEN WITH US

young people with a variety of resources. These are organised as a partnership between local authority and voluntary organ-isations backed up by teams of workers and supported by private industry. It is generally accepted that a combination ofpurpose built youth buildings, shared buildings, information and counselling services, detached and issue based projects are all needed. These are all geared towards the informal social and political education of young people. From this firm base local initiatives are developed. A local committee of adults and young people is usually formed to speak out on needs and' distribute resources. Chip In Where will the money come from? We will all as individuals, local businesses, local authorities and other institutions and voluntary organisations have to chip in with money, time, energy expertise, experience and commitment so that we can at least echo the excellent work done for under Fives. Ostrich or Opportunity?

Teenagers are not the issue. The issue is, 'What is our reaction to there now being so many teenagers living in West Swindon?' Now is the time to chose. We can take the Others do it so why not West ostrich approach or seize the Swindon? opportunity to demonstrate that Other towns of similar make up to we care as much about our teenagers West Swindon do provide fbr their as we do for our toddlers.

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Building Bridges by Marian Northam, Student Counsellor at Swindon College I am sure that we have all encountered situations in which we find ourselves unable to communicate with someone. Invariably the experience leaves us feeling stressed and frustrated to a greater or lesser extent depending on whom we are trying to communicate with and how much this communication means to us. Very often we tend to either blame ourselves or the other person involved making mutual understanding even more difficult to achieve. A recurring complaint from adults and teenagers alike is that they do not feel that they can communicate with each other. Theyfeel that they are on different 'wave lengths'. If the adults in question are parents and the teenagers are their children this stalemate can cause a great deal of distress particularly as there is usually a very real desire on both sides to be listened to and understood. The transition from child to adult is inevitable and natural, we all go through it, however many young people experience considerable emotional upheaval and confusion during the process and anyone closely involved with them may also feel themselves confused and at times unable to cope. For many parents it can feel like walking through a minefield. Relationships which seemed predictable and harmonious can turn into open warfare almost overnight. Parents often feel that their life experience, their values and even they themselves are being rubbished and rejected. They may also feel taken for granted, redundant, misunderstood, isolated and often very angry, with an overwhelming sense of failure. Similarly teenagers may feel that their views and values are being dismissed as passing phases, they often feel patronised, not listened to, wrapped in cottonwool andfrequently confused by their own conflicting need for both security and independence. Many parents understandably resent the fact that just when they are

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Your Local Conservatory Service - ¶TheTraithrna( Way + Beautiful hardwoodlUPVC beginning to feel less tied by the demands and responsibilities ofcaring for young children they arc having to cope with unfamiliar situations that seem out of their control and irresolvable. If the lines of communication between adults and teenagers can be keptopen or even re-established then both sides may experience this period oftransition as a chance to learn from each other rather than a test of endurance. Whatever our age or role in society we all deserve to be respected as individuals, listened to and accepted for who we are. At times we may all feel the need for support and reassurance. If there is a willingness to review and re-assess our perceptions of ourselves, our circumstances and those around us this can then open the door to a better understanding of each other and greater harmony in our relationships. A course designed to explore these issues is presently running at Greendown School and will hopefully be continued in September providing there issuflicientinterest. Forfurther information please contact Swindon 871413 (24 hours) or Swindon 536744 (evenings).

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OtJT1I ISSUES

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With the exams finished and the summer holidays coming, I'm sure a lot of young people are going to find themselves with more time than they know what to do with. I can understand the growing fears quite a few people seem to have about the increase of young people who are spending more and more time just 'hanging around'. I must admit 'hanging out down the Link' of an evening is not my idea offun and yes, I can sympathise with those who feel threatened

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sure that this is not the intention of the majority ofyoung people living in Swindon. I don't think driving people away and banning them from congregating in a place they've grown to rely on is the way to stop trouble. Not all parents allow their teenage children to have friends in the house, so it wouldn't take long for a new meeting place to be established possibly irritating adults even more. It seems that the only way to solve the problem is through compromise. If young people can learn to respect the needs of others so that sharing the community centres with everyone else is not a problem, then surely it is not too much to ask adults to respect young people and their needs to meet in areas, which after all, were designed for everybody.

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and intimidated by a group of people who seem to claim the Link as their territory. But I do think its a bitunfair that young people living in West Swindon are getting the reputation of yobs and trouble makers just because a small minority find causing trouble the only way they can have fun. I feel quite fortunate as having a part time job means not only do I have something to occupy my time before college starts in September, but I also have a reliable cash flow to finance all my leisure activities. Talking to friends who live in surrounding areas, West Swindon does seem to offer quite a good range of recreational activities, which are all easily accessible. But if you haven't got money the facilities might as well not exist. In theory young people should find something beneficial to do with their time. However, in practise, its hard, especially as finding a job is like looking for a needle in a haystack at the moment. It is obvious that the Link and Freshbrook Community Centre have been established by young people as a place where they can meet friends and relax in a safe environment. Everyone needs some time and space to just have some fun. So is it fair to deny people this right? Obviously yes, if it causes distress to others, but I am

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It's remarkable how suddenly our offspring make the transition from babyhood to toddler and child to young adult. We had coped pretty well with the terrible twos of our daughter's childhood but nothing could have prepared us for the terrible teenager. We can only hope that beneath the penned hair, sloppy clothes and over-priced trainers, is the young girl we raised to be loving, kind and considerate. These qualities are lurking there somewhere, we're sure, but the pressures of growing up are temporarily suppressing them! Her biggest priorities these days are to try and look the same as all her friends (preferably as scruffy as possible) and spend atleast4 hours

a day in the bathroom. Considering the aim generally is to be totally unnoticed, it all seems a bit pointless. This is nothing new in teenage girls I suppose, although they certainly cost more these days, at least the designer labels do. Forget the bargain from Woollies, even being seen in the wrong store is 'so embarrassing'. In all fairness, the problems of adolescence are endless and I can definitely say that they were not the best years of my life, even though I was told often that they should be. I think our daughter will be saying the same some day. The Link would like to hear your views and opinions on the 'youth' debate. Address on page 2 or 24.

4)UJIII ISSUJIS

Youth Resources in West Swindon

LOSE A STONE IN 4 WEEKS AT

by Councillor Sue Bates, Chair of the Community Development Committee, Thamesdown Borough Council

I have attended many meetings in the Toothill Farm barn. can be salvaged recent months in an effort to try to and again be used for a youth club. understand what resources are There isa club meeting inGreendown required for West Swindon. School and also some isolated It would be too easy just to pass the 'meetings' around the area such as in responsibility totally over to the the cafe in Freshbrook. County Council who have the Iwould like to see aforum setup to statutory obligationsfor thisfleld,we address many issues, and the all, whether it be as councillors, membership of this would need to residents or parents need to address reflect all parties interested in solving the issue. Wemustaddressthefunding the deficiencies together. It is clear from the meetings I have issue, the lack of meeting spaces and attended that there are many different most of all the general attitude we types of resources required: more have towards the young people in outreach youth workers, structured society- letus moveforward positively youth clubs and premises where our for the benefit of all the area and not teenagers can meet on their own terms. focus on what has been only too often Much of this will require funding. appearing in the media - the negative Thamesdown Council is hoping that picture of what is going on.

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Looking for a New Career or Job Opportunity? The youth club building at Toothill Farm

The re-opening ofthe Youth Club building at Toothill Farm came a left by the last tenants before step closer when a committee was housing development started. formed to manage it on 13 June. Different groups of volunteers A lease to use the building has and young people have tried to get been granted to the Toothill After- the farm going as a centre for youth School Club by Thamesdown in the area and about £50,000 has Council. The club will also receive been spent trying to upgrade the a £16,000 grant to renovate the building. A new roof, a water building and are hoping for a supply and decent sanitation has further £10,000 from Wiltshire been provided, but more money County youth service. needs to be spent to get it into a The After-School club hopes that habitable state. the facility will become the West Diane Stuckey, chair of the Swindon Young People's Centre Toothill After School Club, said and be used by primary aged the farm needs to cater for children and youth up to the age of youngsters of all ages. "The 25. The new committee will be teenagers of the area need to help made up of representatives from us make the project a success. We the After-School Club and young also want to get this right for future people living in the area. teenagers; the children who attend The developments at Toothill the after school club now." Farm are the latest of several The new management commstretching back over the last ittee hopes to have the building fourteen years, since a group of ready in time for Toothill's annual volunteer adults and teenagers community bon-fire night event in cleared out tons of cow manure November.

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towa rd s Wiltshire County Council Youth Workers Carl Bowen and Jo Marchmen put some blunt questions about how the community see young people 'Youth' ... what does this word mean to you? What type of people come to mind - how old arc they, what do they look like, where are they found and what do they do? Now think of the phrase 'Young People' and ask yourself the same set of questions, the chances are the answers will be very different probably more balanced and more positive. The word 'Youth' is a very powerful one, but it's also a very negative one. On the face of it, 'Youth' is just the term for an age group, but in reality, we all know it says a lot more than just this. In today's society, the word 'Youth' (as used by the media) is often associated with a string of other negative terms such as 'violence', 'attack', 'crime', 'riot', 'drugs', 'lazy', 'trouble', 'disturbing', 'threatening' ... in fact the list is endless. It is almost as if this word has come to stand for all that is wrong in our society. Sadly, 'Youth'secms to be coming a very popular word these days in West Swindon. People talk about the 'Youth at the Link', the 'Youth at Frcshbrook' and the 'Youth of Toothill', but is this really what we mean? The people that we arc so quick to label in this way are actually just West Swindon's teenagers - an age group that is an integral part of all communities everywhere. Everyone was young once! What is the West Swindon Patchwork Team? ... and what do we do? At present, the team comprises: 2 Full Time Youth Workers, 6 Part time Workers ( one of whom works on a voluntary basis) As Detached/Out-reach workers, we work to the 'brief of taking our professional skills out to the many young people who live and socialisc in West Swindon areas - or 'Patches'. Unlike conventional Youth Work (which often takes place in Youth Clubs or Centres), much of the work we do, is on the streets, in pubs, Community Centres and any other public places where young people themsclvcs choose to gather and spend time. In this field, the concept of'work' involves making contact with young people with a view to offering a trusting, supportive and educative relationship - this being with a trained adult who is not perceived by the young people as being in an authority

over them. Our relationship with young people in the area is, therefore, a voluntary one. Through it, we aim to encourage young people (either in groups or as individuals) to: reflect upon their own experiences of life; explore more fully options and choices that are open to them; think about their attitudes and beliefs, and in general, take greater control over their own lives. Having said this, we must stress that we are definitely not about telling young people what to do or what not to do - for this is not the youth work approach. Over the past two years, the Youth Service and the West Swindon Youth Resources Committee have supported and encouraged the amalgamation of'single worker' posts into a team approach. Bothfull-time and part-time workers now generate a common strategy for their work across the area using the 'Youth Office' in the Link Centre's Community Suite as a 'Team Base'. This acts both as an administrative centre and a reliable contact point for young people and other agencies. Although at present we arc basically a 'street-work' tcam,wc do recognise the need for young people to have space within buildings and centres, and we arc involved in a limited amount of what is termed 'Centrebased' work. 'Drop-in' sessions are run in the Freshbrook Community Centre on Sunday afternoons, Monday evenings and Friday evenings. This offers young people an informal cafe setting in which to meet, play pool and socialise with their friends. The management of Freshbrook Community Centre is very supportive of young people in the area, and over the past year, the committee have 'sat around the table' with young people on a number of occasions to resolve difficulties that may have arisen. This is in complete contrast to the attitude displayed by the Community Centre inToothill,who openly refuse to accommodate young people in any way, shape or form! In addition to this facility, our team operates a Youth Club for the 14+ group on the Greendown site on Tuesday evenings. This is more of a traditional Youth Club setting, which is open to all young people in the area of this age group. In July, a third full-time worker, Richard Williams, will be joining our team. He will be based at the school and his priority will be to extend and

OIJTII ISSUES

is this our altitude Young People?

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develop the opportunities that Greendown could offer to young people living in this area. Needs Without doubt, there is a pressing need in West Swindon for a place where young people can meet and call their own - a place that is designed to reflect their interests and lifestyle, (after all, think how much money goes into creating just the right image for adult pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels!). "The West Swindon Young People's Centre" is at last in the pipe -line, and young people arc working in partnership with the adults from the 'Toothill After School Club' to Create a centre that will benefit young people of a wide age range. However,from our point asYouth Workers, the issue for young people is far broader than this. When some adults talk about finding somewhere for the kids to go', it can sound as if the notion is being designed to suit the adults more than the young people. With or without a Young People's Centre, young people in this area still have a perfect right to expect some access to the area's Community Centres and the right to spend their time in West Swindon's public spaces without labels being placed on them or assumptions made about the sort of people they are. In many recent public meetings, people have been quick to point out that is is only a minority of young people that give the majority a 'bad name'. Sadly, it seems that people find this an easy thing to say - but not such as easy thing to really believe. This would seem to suggest that for many of the young people living in

West Swindon, more resources is not the only answer to their problems the attitude of the adults in The Community towards them is ofequal importance. Surely, if the minority of young people are allowed to represent the majority in the minds of some adults then this is an error on the part of those weighing up the situation; why should the majority of young people have to put up with a reputation they don't deserve? From our point of view as Youth Workers,we welcome more resources for young people in this area, and the growing interest in their situation so long as this interest is genuine. What we will not be supporting, is an area wide media panic about "The Youth" ... this is the last thing young people in this area need.

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New group The Salvation Army Boys Activities Corps - SABAC - have set up a new youth group for 6 to l4 year olds. It meets on Wednesday from 6pm at Toothill Community Centre. Games, activities, outdoorprojects are all part of the programme. To find out more, contact Clive Alexander on 826428.

New venture to start A Venture Scout group will be starting in later this year. Young people aged 15% to 18 are invited to join in with activities including community work, canoeing, climbing, hiking, map and compass work and leadership skills. Contact Jason Drysdale on 728430 for more details.

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Preparing for 'youth' There are several stages before you become an adult. Area play development officer Paul Ryan says younger children deserve a better deal as well Imagine the future as a huge unmade jigsaw puzzle. Much of what determines how the puzzle will look - its quality and nature - will be today's children. They are tomorrow's adults, the future's decision makers, parents, workers, producers, consumers and providers. It is often said that 'children learn what they live' and it seems obvious that their experience of attitudes and ideas, information, opportunity and environment will help to mould how they think and feel and act. Their understandings, abilities and beliefs will shape the future. Thus how each child develops will influence and is part of our society's development. If we wish to positively influence this we should consider how to positively effect the major influences on children development - things such as the family, education, the media and - not least - play. Play is often underestimated and undervalued as an influence on children's development and yet children can spend over twice as much time involved in play and recreation as they do in school (Playboard research 1985). Through play children naturally develop understandings, skills relationships and potentials. Play is their informal means of growing and learning. Yet we consistenly and dismally fail to meet our children's needs and

rights not only in play terms but in many respects. Children suffer more than most from injustice, pollution, exploitation and poverty and are consistently marginaliscd in terms of how decisions are made and resources allocated that affect their lives. Can we really talk about equal rights and opportunities for children if we treat them so unfairly? - just look at the way governments (national and local) legislate, allocate resources and make decisions. If we really want to enable children to fare the local and global challenges that their lives will bring, if we really want a healthier and happier society we must invest more in our children now. Surely a more child-centred and friendly society is an investment in all our futures.

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'OIJTI1 ISSUES

Marie provides stabilising influence Marie Crane is an unusual woman. At 81 years of age, Marie from Freshbrook has become a skilled voluntary youth worker and she enjoys every moment. "I became involved over three years ago when a group of young people came to the Freshbrook Community Centre management committee to ask if they could organise a Sunday afternoon club. The request was very reasonable and they said they would welcome a visit, so I went along. "Originally, Iwas like everybody else, especiallyatmyage. Iwas'n't too sure about approaching young people, but I was accepted straight away." Marie now goes down to the community centre to be with teenagers on Monday and Friday evenings, Sunday afternoons and helps out with the Faces Junior youth club on a Saturdaymorning. She also runs the pensioners lunch club on Fridays. "Grown ups have got the wrong idea of young people and some are downright prejudiced," says Marie. "They're far too quick to complain about their behaviour but they don't think how they could help out. Young people appreciate adult contact, but it needs to be on their level. I'm critical of them, but it's on

the basis of a relationship. "I think bad behaviour and damage is usually blown up out ofproportion. It does occur and I've given young people a piece of mind. The vast majority want to enjoy themselves with their friends. They're young, energetic and want excitement. They also need older people to talk to and

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Ifccl I provide a stabilising influence. Other adults could do this also." Marie says she has developed a strong affection for the youngsters she has madefriendswith and regularly receives birthday and Christmas cards. If Marie can workwith youngsters, why can't you?

American Football for teenagers Young people who want to learn how to play American Football with the Swindon Steelers team have the chance tofmd out the basics at two player five day player clinics in the summer holidays. These are open to 14 to 17 year oldsandtakeplaceon22 -2óJulyand 19- 23 August, 1030am to 330pm everyday. The cost is £35 for the five days and details are available from Steclers coach Paul Steiner on 790319 (evenings) or from Steve O'Sullivan at Greendown.

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme The Greendown Open Award Centre meets on Fridays between 7pm and 9pm at Greendown Community School. Young people aged between 14 and 24 can take part in a range of physical, skill, community service and project work and expeditions. The initial cost is £6.50 and there is a weekly subscription of 50p to offset expedition costs. For more information, contact Chris or Gill Lothian on Swindon 693731, or go along on a Friday evening.

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Young People on the Doorstep Community Development Officer Laurence Yeoman asks whether there are points of contact between adults and young people which can be developed in the future. He wants to hear from people who would like to talk about the possibilities

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Savvas Cabaret Club 30 & 31 August 6 & 7 September 19 October 26 October 9 November

Adonis - The Men of Hollywood - Ladies only £26.00 Freddie Starr £33.00 Jim Davidson £29.00 Jethro (Cornish Comedian from the Des O'Connor TV Show) £28.00 16 November Jimmy Tarbuck & Kenny Lynch £28.00 23 November Drifters £28.00 30 November The Tremoloes & The Ivy League £28.00 6 & 7 December Bob Monkhouse £28.00 10 December Top Gun Ladies only night £24.00 3 December The Searchers & Stan Boardman £33.00 19 December The Rocking Berries & Stan Boardman £33.00 Price includes return coach travel, admittance to Savvas, 3 course dinner and full supporting show. Deposit of £10 per person required. No all male groups admitted.

For Reservations and Further Details, please ring Curtain Call Travel on 740817 Am

Jo, a lively 15 year old comes home one evening with couple of friends. She hasn't got her key. She knocks on the door. No one is listening. Are they in and ignoring me? or have they all gone out and left me to wait here until they return. Inside the grown ups arc indeed in. However, they cannot hear jo and her friends because they're talking so much. They arc talking about Jo and her friends. They are concerned at some of the wild things they think Jo is doing. They are worried that when they try and talk about these things Jo gets angry and walks off, feeling hurt and misunderstood. The grown ups only want to help. They don't know what to do. Jo only wants to have somewhere warm and secure to meet with her friends - not to be ignored and not to feel invaded all the time either. It seems to me that being a young person in West Swindon nowadays can feel like being on the doorstep. I have attended a number of(grown up) community meetings where people are saying "What are we doingfor our young people?" "Are we doing enough?" And what about the young people hanging about outside the link Centre or Toothill Community Centre literally on the doorstep. I hear that adults in West Swindon are concerned there is not enoughfor young people to do. Most people outside West Swindon think of the area as an aladdins cave of entertainment for young people. There is the bowling alley, cinema, night club and Link Centre. However, we know these can be expensive and mostyoung people and their parents don't have enough money for these treats much of the time. Leaving aside the cost of taking part in these activities - are young people really interested in doing them anyway? Young people I have spoken to have said that most of all they just want somewhere to meet, as a group, where thcywon'tbe hassled ormoved on.

For readers who want to know more about the groups available to young people, the information is available from the West Swindon library or the Community Resource Room at the Link Centre. Open Monday to Friday during office hours or Tuesday evening. Telephone 871212 ext 234.

I believe we have the rooms and buildings within which young people can meet and have the space to be together. For this to work for young people, adults must want it to. Adults can choose to see young people on the doorstep,with the frustration of being on the outside. This is not an easy thing to do. Adults on their own, mayfeel scared at the sight of a group of lively young people heading their way. Young people will challenge beliefs, values and thoughts which can leave the grown ups feeling attacked. I believe the adults and young people would like to find a way to communicate with each other. I suggest this requires some organising to enable people to come to look at this issue. To this end I am asking any adults or young people to put their names forward onto a mailing list. In the autumn we intend to call people together to begin to tackle this issue. If you are interested please write to the Community Suite, Link Centre, Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon or telephone 871212 ext. 234, Monday-Friday during office hours or on Tuesday evenings. The grown-ups are upset and worried. Jo is upset and angry. Neither of them are happy with the situation.

Well, we've started a debate. We hope that the contributions over the last 10 pages will stimulate thought and discussion bout the needs of young people in West Swindon and will lead to more understanding and involvement. The Link will welcome letters and comments on the subject. Send them to 13 Castle Dore, Frcshbrook.

POLITICAL POINTS

Open access for all at Link Centre

Keeping traffic in its place A local councillor wants the truth to be known about the problems of driver access to the Windmill 1-1111 Business Park and traffic congestion along Whitehill Way. Freshbrook and Grange Park emergency access gate so that emcouncillor Bob Pixton was put un- ployees had an alternative entrance dera lot of pressure at thebeginning and exit on Hook Street. of June by employees from the BusiThe weight of traffic movingalong ness Park and the local media be- Whitehill Way towards Blagrove cause he objected to the opening ofa roundabout and coming in from the

L lot dii lop lot o

Missing number Our profound apologies to Freshbrook and Grange Park councillor Simon Cordon for omitting his telephone number in our gallery of political representatives published in last months edition. If you cut out the photographs and contact addresses for future reference, please add Simon's telephone number which is Tel: 617723 Adding to the contact information published last month, belowis a list of surgeries held by councillors in the area. Please cut these out and display with the councillor photos.

West Swindon Councillor Surgeries Councillors Rosemarie Saunders and Jo Stevens (Toothill Ward) are available between 11.30am and 1 p on: Sat. 20 July George & Ann Tweed Room, Westlea School Sat. 17 Aug. Shaw Community Centre (next to the doctor) Sat. 21 Sept. Toothill School Community Room Sat. 19 Oct. George & Ann Tweed Room, Westlea School Sat. 16 Nov. Shaw Community Centre (next to the doctor) Coun. Sue Bates and Bob Pixton (Freshbrook Ward) hold surgeries each Wednesday 7pm - 7.30pm in the Community Room, Freshbrook

LSchool.

25 Barbeque meeting

There is to be no entrance charge at the Link Centre and its open access policy is to continue following a meetingofmamesdown's Artsand Recreation Committee on 20 June. A report spelled out the problems created by a fewdisniptive people who abuse the facilities, staff and other users of the centre. Measures to combat the problem include revising and reintroducing a code of behaviour expected of users and introducing a banning system to be enforced by stewards, who presently patrol the Mall. Link Centre coordinator John Fisher said that the behaviour of a minority of users was unacceptable. "Having an open access policy is both unique and risky. Our aim is to effectively control the few who cause problems, raise staff morale, improve the reputation of the centre and reduce the cost to the taxpayer of repairing damage."

The next meeting of the Swindon Riding Centre for the Disabled support group takes place at the Barbeque site at Lydiard Park on Thursday 4July from 6pm. Formore information, ring Tina Campbell on 813328.

Townswomens meetings The next meeting of West Swindon's Townswomen's Guild next meet again on 11 July, when our speaker will tell us about the origins of street names, and then on 12 September, in the Ike Gradwell Suite, Link Centre at 200pm

Countrywide Property Management Residential Letting Agents PROPERTIES IN THIS AREA URGENTLY

REQUIRED FOR PROCEEDABLE APPLICANTS Contact Paula Grant

Phone positions Bob Pixton at the entrance of the Windmill Hill Business Park showing where Councillor Rosemarie Saunders wants to know where new telephone traffic lights should be installed boxes could be sited. BT would like M4 has been a growing problem for suggestions from the community. If Tel: 613459 years, and the start of roadworks you have an idea where a box could along Great Western Way at the end go, ring Rosemarie on 861044. of May caused increased chaos. However Coun. Pixton has hit back by saying the managers of the business park has planning permission to sort out the problems and should take action. "The developers received permission from Thamesdown's planning committee on 4 February to cut across the Invest in one block driveways and never worry about cracking or central reservation onWhitehillWay sinking again. Numerous colours, patterns and shapes to choose from. and install traffic lights. They also Why not let us transform your garden by adding a patio and stylish have permission to build a second walling? We also undertake turfing, property maintenance, entrance to the park off Great Western Way for drivers coming fencing and all types of garden ponds. from the motorway." THE PRICE WE QUOTE IS WHAT YOU PAY He said that if the emergency exit No hidden extras on Hook Street was used, the qualDaytime (0793) 729915 9am - 5pm . Evenings (0793) 485018 ity of environment for Grange Park 24 hour Answer machine available residents would deteriorate and employees would have an inadequate route in and out of the park. "I would like to know why the I Wind millHill developers have been sitting on the planning permission HELP KEEP THE UNWANTED ELEMENTS OUT! for nearly five months without taking action" said Bob. He added that the present traffic congestion was just a startofa whole UPVC/ALUMINIuM & HARDWOOD series of roadworks along the Great WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT ,r t'c Western Way which will continue HOME EXTENDERS & TRADITIONAL STYLE CONSERVATORIES until July 1992.

Local Plan views wanted Coun. Pixton is holding a discussion on the draft Thamesdown Local Plan at his surgery on Wednesday 10 July, 7pm - 730pm in the Community Room at Freshbrook School. All welcome.

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Letters to The Link

Dogs From J Strutton, Rochford Close, Grange Park I really must complain about the letter from K Stevenson in the last issue of The Link. Whilst I support you giving a balanced view and airing both sides of the argument, I do fear that the 'facts' quoted are misleading. The issue about Toxocara Canis roundworm is much exaggerated, whilst in truth the risk is infinitesimally small. As is pointed out in the letter, children can be supervised and educated; therefore they can be instructed not to touch any dog mess they see and to wash their hands should they be unfortunate enough to get it on them. If it is suspected that a child or adult has been infected, then a doctor or pharmacist can offer a quick remedy forall roundworm infestations. It is only dangerous if leftuntreated. Toxacara can remain dormant in a female dog, until the hormone changes in pregnancy cause them to become active, which is how they are passed on to the puppies. However, treatment at the early stage of pregnancy and again after birth for bitch and puppies is 100% effective. The brochure referred to in the letter was produced by a drug company wishing to sell its wares. Fear is the best motivator to get people buying your product and the drug companies must rate as about the worst users of this method. Any vet, pet shop of chemist can provide a choice of effective products to worm any dog; or any animal for that matter. As to registration: how can that prevent these problems? Cars are registered and so are the drivers, buthowmanyaccidentsanddeaths are caused by people with motor vehicles who are never brought to account? I would favour a registration scheme, not for dogs, but for owners. Like a driving licence, you should have to learn about the animals and understood how to manage them, before you can own one. all dogs are descended from the Wolf and have a very complex socialbehaviour. Understanding that behaviour is key to owning a well behaveddog Dogs react tohumans as other dogs, which is why children can prove very confusing to them. Children have jerky uncoordinated movements and high pitched voices, which can make a dog either feel threatened or assume that it is prey; especially when there is more than one dog around. The wolf pack instinct takes over and an avoidable attack occurs. Children should be taught not to approach any dog without the owners permission. If I went to pat you on the head without asking,

how would you react. You may not like it, but go along with it, or you may react and strike out. all a dog can do is accept, run or bite. A dog's eyes are rather closer to the top of the head than ours, soft can seem that a strange hand is heading for it's eyes. How do you react if fingers look as if they are about to be poked into your eyes? Whena dog feels uncertain about something, it wags its tail. This is a very confusing piece of dog body language; to us anyway; the dog has it all figured out. Therefore a wagging tail means nothing, all it means is the dog is still working out what how you relate to it and how it should react to you. Any dog owner will tell you, that a dog will be wagging it's tail the most, when it has just done something that it should not have an is uncertain about what will happen when the owner (or pack leader), finds out. When we see a dog that we like, we smile and show our teeth. A dog shows its teeth as a threat, so when we smile at a strange dog, to the dog, we are making a threat! This is a very common way for children to be attacked. They see a nice doggie, rush at it smiling and the poor dog thinks it is about to be attacked, so it fights back. Finally, am I alone in thinking that what we have gained in a material way, we have lost in tolerance and respect. Dog bits a child and the mob call for all 'mad dogs' tobe done away with. Man uses dogs for horrific experiments, nothing short of torture, and is said. If our social structure is measured by the way we treat animals, other humans and our planet, then we are in a sorry state. Perhaps if we moved froma state of self to state of selflessness, we could all live more peacefully. Cats are a problem also From I Sayers, Toothill We seem to keep getting letters in the daily press and also in The Link about dogs and the health hazard from their mess namely 'Toxocara' but nothing ever seems to be said about cats and their mess, left in everybody elses gardens except their own. Cats mess also contains a parasite 'Toxoplasmagondll' which I believe can harm unborn children if an expectant woman gets any on her skin perhaps when gardening in her own garden. I have also read that this parasite can live in the soil for up to 14 months. So pleaseall you peopleout there who like to keep picking on dogs just remember cats are just as big a health hazard.

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ

Not suitable for children From Mrs C Baker, Sidney Close, Grange Park Ever since the new MGM cinema, Shaw Ridge was opened, my son knew exactly what his birthday treat would be this year a trip to the cinema with two of his friends. We waited patiently until the week before his birthday, and rang the cinema, but they couldn't tell us what films were going to be shown until the next Monday which didn't help us at all in our organisation of this trip. In the end my husband called in to the cinema, and manage to ascertain what was on, and to our horror the very week we wanted a PG film suitable for an 8 year old, there was nothing suitable going to be shown. My son was very upset that his plans for his birthday treat had been totally disrupted and we felt it was ratherbad planning that out of 7 screens one couldn't have had a film suitable for this age group, even if it had been an old favourite and not a new block buster. With due respect to the Manager and Duty Managers who were at all times very understanding and as helpful as possible, there was really nothing they could suggest to save the day, as it were, as they really didn't have any say on what films were going to be shown. We feel thatthis should be looked at closely in the future, because the children of today will be the ones that make orbreak cinema going in the future. If they are put off now, then they won't want to bother so much in the future. Flower thief From Mrs A C Watkins, Moresby Close, Westlea I hope the despicable thief who stole my pensioner mother's hanging basket from outside her front door in Affleck Close, in Toothill on Sunday 16 June, gets his or her just desserts. With limited spare cash and lots of time on her hands, one of her only pleasures was planting and maintaining this basket, which also brightened up an otherwise 'flowerless' street. What is the point of trying to make such an effort? I hope the thief will suffer pangs of conscience, so much so that he, or she will return the basket to its rightful place.

Oliver Tomkins Playgroup Fete Sat 6 July lOam - 2pm Oliver Tomkins Under 5s Centre, Kiln Park, off Beaumaris Road, Toothill

Jellytots Playgroup, Shaw From Mrs Budd, Fundraising Officer I would like to express my thanks to the following, who donated prizes forJellytots Playgroup Grand Summer Draw on 12 June. British Rail Western Region, Bluebird Toys Ltd, W H Smith Group plc, Early Lea rning Centre,J Sainsbury plc,JCRNew5 &Food of Shaw, Halifax Building Society. I would also like to thank all those people who supported this fundraising effort by selling and buying raffle tickets.

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost ÂŁ3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon Childminder needed in Westlea Full time for Ben (2%) and afterschool and holidays for Sam (51&). Mid-July start. Tel. Jackie or Ian on 547834/547841 office hours, or 872158 home.

Vacancy The Link Magazine is looking for somebody to help with distribution of the magazine to the street distributors. We need one or two people to cover the whole of West Swindon. Time involved approx. 2 to 4 hours a month. Car or van essential. Map provided. Details of job and payfrom 872282.

CARS WANTED M.o.T. failures, Scrap or Accident Damaged Anything considered Tel: 480527

Sandys Silk Bouquets made to the price you can afford. Baskets, Posies, Headdress's at your price, not the Shops

Tel: Sandy 0793 875665 Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

Holiday Cottage, Devon Comfortable cottage sleeps 4/5 in pretty village in Dartmoor National Park. Details available on request. Sorry no pets. Phone 081 868 8478.

Appeal to Sparcells dog owners Youngsters in Sparcells are appealing to dog owners to keep their dogs away from their football pitch. The kids aged 9 to 14 have erected their own goal posts on the open space behind Sparcells Community Centre and use it whenever they can. Before playing they inspect the rough ground for dog droppings. They always find lots of piles of faeces just where they play and cover them with stones. "It's a big problem here," said spokesman Cohn White of Sandwood Close. 'The muck gets on our shoes, the ball and our clothes. We see owners walking their dogs down by the stream, but there are a few who always let their dogs foul just where we play. Its a big field and they could try to make sure their dogs go on the edge." Wanting to avoid confrontation and possibly abuse, the youngsters have not spoken to any dog owners.

Making space in your minds for HIV and AIDS A charity created for people in Swindon whose lives have been affected by HIV infection and people with AIDS is battling against prejudice and misinformation. Set up eighteen months ago, SPACE - the Swindon Project for AIDS Counselling and Education offers a range of services on a confidential and non-judgemental basis including •an anonymous helpline •a drop in centre where people can receive support and can be put in touch with other services •an information serviceaboutHlV, AIDS and practicing safer sex •training on HIV and AIDS awareness, sex and sexuality. Those infected with the virus as well as their partners, wives, families and friends all have access to SPACE. The organisation has been finding it slow getting their message across to Swindon people for a number of reasons according to its coordinator Tom Harris. "It's very difficult to know how many people in Swindon may be affected by HIV or AIDS because we think many travel to London or Bristol for tests. The low numbers visiting the genitourinary medicine department at PMH is part of the reason for setting up SPACE." Although AIDS is a new phenomena, another reason is the national deep-seated belief amongst the 'straight' population that HIV and AIDS only affects gay people and drug users. Nothing could be further from the truth and a recent report should that the largest rate of

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No Garage Prices or Waiting Some of the users, standing from left, Paul Steele, Daniel Plumb, Thomas Day, Craig Ratcliffe, Richard Plumb,NickMcCrae, Edward Brown. Front, Markand Colin White

"They would think we're a bit cheeky if weasked them," said Colin. "But it would be good if they could control their dogs more. It's not only us. Lots of dads come out here with much younger children."

Please Telephone 876211 ANYTIME

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Tony Price 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent

Freshbrook Church

tIZI

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

growth in the numberof people who are HIV infected is amongst heterosexual women. "Nowadays HIV and AIDS is not confined to any one sector of the population," says Tom. "Child or adult, straight or gay, male or female, black or white, old or young, doing drugs or not can all become infected. It comes as a hell of a shock TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. and it is often a very isolating exTELEPHONE 870055 perience. Imagine not being able to tell anybody because you think for you'll be out of a job, or your family House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work will disown you. That's what we're (written estimates given) all about, advice and information and space to work out your Divorce, Criminal and all Court work thoughts." Wills and Probates SPACE has a team of loyal, confidential volunteers who will talk, WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! listen and assist in any way. The organisation also has strong links Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 526601 with a network of professionals for and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602 further help. HIV does not discriminate bee tweenthe sexually active and unless tween DESPERATE? LONELY? SUICIDAL? people become more aware of this, its spread will not be checked. Tom Harris puts it more starkly. "Because the HIV virus can lie dormant for a longtime, there are now more people with the HIV virus who don't know they've got it, than those who do. If people are sexually active, You don't have to be suicidal to share then they need to practice safe sex. your problems with us. Phone anytime They cannot know who has or who day or night, or call into does not have the HIV virus." To get in touch with SPACE, the 6 Curtis Street, Swindon Centre at 172 Victoria Road is open betweeen 8am & 10pm. midday to 6pm Monday, Tuesday the Samaritans and Thursday and the telephone helpline is open 7pm to 9pm TuesSwindon 537373 day and Thursday. The telephone number is 420620.

Morrison & Masters

The Samaritans

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