July 2006 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

No. 290 July 2006 • Circulation 25.000

the positive newstorce in Swindon and the Swindon wide what's on guide

Giant queen on the look out

Students call on PM to deliver promise of teachers for all

for a genius

A conference at Greendown School at the end of May looked at how communities in Britain can linkup and support places in poorer countries. Students took the opportunity to present South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove with an unusual petition for Tony Blair calling on him to press for eve ry child across the globe to receive an education. See page 3. • Greendown tidies up its neighbourhood on page 12 Anne Snelgrove with Jessie Howard with the teacher petition

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

More and more opportunities to show off your photo talents leader of the council and cabinet member for corporate affairs said this is an opportunity for residents to search out the interesting and unusual. "We're very proud of Swindon and the changes taking place, with a new town centre, new schools and of course our new central library. We think Swindon has many fine places and we want to show people the attractive landscapes, parks and open spaces we Swindon Advertiser. Photos by Link readers may also have in this borough." Only 52 photographs will be dissee them printed in pin sharp colplayed on the council's web site our in the magazine. Coun Fionuala Foley, deputy each year.

Digital photography makes it easier than ever to capture snapshots of time and place, and there are also now more chances to have your observations published. Swindon Council has relaunched its web site and is inviting Link readers to send in images for the front page. The best will be displayed for a week each and be published in the

But readers who want to guarantee a place for their Swindon pictures on the web should go to www.swindongallery.co.uk Last September the Swindon Civic Trust teamed up with The Link to launch an online gallery where shots of buildings and features around the town can be displayed. There you will find images of the interesting, unusual and the downright awful - from the cut-

ting edge architecture of the National Trust HQ in Churchward and the empty Cellular Operations building at Peatmoor, to the grubby line of dumpsters parked along Holbrook Way, off Fleet Street. Sites to look at: www.swindon.gov.uk > click on photo competition. www.swindongallery.co.uk Register your details and upload as many images as you want.

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

Greendown campaigners to present petition to PM Youngsters from Greendown Community School took the chance to exert political pressure on Anne Snelgrove MP for South Swindon at the end of May by introducing her to a life sized cut out teacher bearing letters calling on world leaders to support the commitments made at the G8 summit last year that every child on the planet is receiving an education by 2015. Last year 7,000 schools across Britain made cut outs for their local MP or sent them to government ministers; joining 5 million children in over 100 countries who are calling for progress on the promise. Year 9 pupil Jessie Howard said her friends decided to take action after Anne Snelgrove accepted an invitation to open the 2006 United Kingdom One World Linking Association (UKOWLA) conference at Greendown on 20 and 21 May. "Education is so important for every child. Here we take going to school for granted but millions of children across the world do not get the chance. We're campaigning for them "The world leaders have given a promise that every child gets an Jessie Howard with her letter to the PM. In the background Anne Snelgrove holds education. I think we should all be the teacher petition with the Greendown signatories putting on pressure to make sure they don't break it." tition. "We certainly need multi"I'm delighted that the Prime Anne Snelgrove said she was talented teachers throughout the Minister has agreed to meet the happy to deliver the colourful pe- world to provide education for all. Greendown pupils on 5 July so that they can reinforce their message to him directly."

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The United Kingdom One World Linking Conference at Greendown paign too. Find out more at on 20 and 21 May brought together representatives from schools, www.sendmyfriend.org churches and community groups across Britain who have developed or are building educational, civic and cultural partnerships with communities in other parts of the world. The theme of 'Looking out to look in' brought together organisations connected with a range of countries in Africa to discuss ideas for building closer links, success IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: stories and common issues, such as how to negotiate with govern0 Backache, Leg Pain ment agencies that visitors from other countries have genuine rea0 Neck, Shoulder, Arm Pain sons to come here. Speakers from Norway and USA 0 Headache & Migraine were also present. The event also looked at how 0 Sciatica social cohesion in British communities can be improved by links to 0 Sports Injury other countries. Greendown teacher Cristina 0 Arthritis Bennett said, "one of the highlights 0 Whiplash of the weekend were workshops run by Greendown pupils called Cristina Bennett with Greendown pu'The World Outside Our Win- pils who helped run the conference, Sian YOU SHOULD CONSIDER Gannon and Matthew Hill in front of dows.' photographs from Morteng Wa Tutu CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR "Delegates were asked to ex- Secondary School, their partner school plore their own identities and then in South Africa consider how they might see other SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. people's true identities beyond the mark, referring to all young peoCLARE DUNCAN-HAWES MSc. D.C. stereotypes. One person enthused, ple who have been inspired by "I really enjoyed the workshop as school partnerships: 'The commitMembers of BCA • Registered with GCC it was unique, presented in an un- ment and enthusiasm that these Members of the College of Chiropractors derstandable way by young peo- young people have brought to the project has illuminated their unple." Ms Bennett added that the suc- derstanding, their partner's undercess of the Greendown pupils' in- standing and global understandwww.shawchiropracticclinic.co.uk volvement in the conference was ing.' www.ukowla.org.uk neatly summarised by another re-

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

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MP says Swindon needs to put more behind mere words

In a House of Commons speech on 25 May, North Swindon MP Michael Wills praised the vision on which the town is based but criticised Swindon Council's lack of ambition for its future. Mr Wills also criticised the counSpeaking in the Whitsun Adjournment Debate, he first praised cil's visionary theme for Swindon: the foresight of the post-war La- 'the UK's best business location' bour town council, saying, "at a saying "any town is likely to want time when it was not a fashionable to be that, but we must look a little occupation for Labour councils, it more deeply to avoid a bland and meaningless phrase." wooed businesses to "There is nothing in come to Swindon, and the Local Area Agreethat has been the basis of ment to suggest why our prosperity for many Swindon is going to be decades." the best business locaHowever, Mr Wills tion. I very much hope warned that Swindon that it will be, but we needs to remain attrachave to work at that, tive to employers and not just assert it and employees and that the town's prosperity should not be assume that it will be true." Mr Wills referred to a meeting taken for granted. "We must remain attractive to the employers almost two years ago with the who are going to bring in the high- leader of the council and represkilled, high-value-added jobs on sentatives from leading cultural which our future prosperity de- institutions to discuss ways to pends. That means not only that transform Swindon. "After the we need the right skills base but meeting, I wrote a note summaristhat the town must have an attrac- ing some of the ideas that were proposed and sent it to the bortive environment." "The town council has a vision ough council. I asked how it would for the town centre, working with like to proceed and how I could the New Swindon Company, that help it, but to this day I have rewill undoubtedly result in a sig- ceived no reply and, needless to nificant improvement on what we say, none of the ideas has been have now. Any hon. member fa- pursued. A truly ambitious counmiliar with Swindon town centre cil would have taken those ideas will know that that would not be and run with them." In conclusion, he said that all the hard to achieve. However, when the town council talks about build- decisions facing Swindon now "reing a desperately needed new li- quire a bold and ambitious vision brary why does it not talk about if the town is to compete successbuilding one of the best libraries in fully with other towns in the UK and across the world. Time is runBritain or Europe?" "We are also talking aboutbuild- ning out, as the important deciing a new concert hall in the town, sions are being taken as we speak." The full speech can be found by but we are not talking about a concert hall that would be capable of visiting www.partiament.uk and attracting world-class performers. searching Hansard for the Whitsun Adjournment Debate. We should be."

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C www.swindonlink.com

Th e Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006 5

Things can only get better Leader of Swindon Council Rod Bluh responds to the MP's comments about the town.

I was disappointed that Michael Wills should use the House of Commons to launch such a public and negative attack on Swindon Borough Council. This is an exciting time for the town with many changes taking place. Unfortunately he seems to suggest the council has low aspirations but nothing could be further from the truth. We want Swindon to be a place its people can be proud of and I believe we are making great progress towards that goal. It would be helpful if Michael would look to the future instead of concentrating on mistakes of the past which were made by the previous Labour administration. There's no doubt the prosperity brought by the railways was used Rod Bluh holding the council's in the past by Labour to attract new corporate plan more businesses. Sadly though its successors lost their way. When the country's most prosperous conwe took over from Labour in 2004 centration of high technology inwe inherited deep-rooted prob- dustries to the west of London with lems which have not been easy to superb road and rail links. Proprectify. The council's rating has erty prices are currently substannow risen from zero to two stars tially lower than in the home counmaking us one of the fastest-im- ties. proving local authorities in BritWe already have big players like ain. Intel, Honda, RWeNPower and We have a vision to regenerate Nationwide. Of course we can be the town centre and we're proud Britain's best business location and of the Granville Street scheme an- anyone who thinks we're doing nounced recently. It will have not nothing to achieve this should have just shopping but restaurants, been at Lydiard Park in early June homes and offices, fine open spaces to see us host the Corporate Games and recreational facilities. Michael which has been reported as the seems to dismiss all this by saying best ever. that improvement is not hard to There is much to be done. This is achieve. Does he think any old plan why we're building new schools will do? I am sure as part or our drive his constituents What do y Iu think of for higher educawould disagree. tional achieveAs for the library Swindon's progress? we have no doubt Is Swindon C that it will be one better job an the i m of the best in Britain, and there the town isi sm Let The Linl would be no point address c in building a new concert hall if it Meet th could not accomRod Bluh w modate top perthe West Sc formers. While on 10 July Michael is critical of what he perpar ce ves as a I ack of ambition on these projects, he simultaneously attacks our stated aim of making Swindon the UK's best business location. These are not empty words. Our town is ideally placed to attract new businesses. We are close to

ment and why ^uncil doing a do you have we're supporting the University of ^sion that ving forward? Bath in its search for a new campus know at the in Swindon. We i the left. want people to

stay here after they leader I be attending graduate and attract newcomers. ndon Forum The last thing Details on 9

the people of

Swindon need is to hear their MP perpetuating the old myths about their town, and what will other MPs and businesses make of it? Don't be just another critic Michael. Join us in our vision. We believe in Swindon and its future; we'd love y ou to do the same.

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It's simple! Terry King holding up a set of draft Design Codes for the Wichelstowe development in the Front Garden

Contractors Raymond Brown are working on a new traffic light controlled junction at the southern end of Croft Road close to the Park & Ride. This new junction will allow access to part of the site as well as the new link road from Croft Road running parallel to the motorway to Hay Lane, close to junction 16. A further contract will be awarded later this year for the first phase of infrastructure works to construct access roads from Redpost Drive at Rushey Platt going south to Mill Lane. Founder of the Front Garden Action Group (FRAG), Terry King, has opposed the development for over 10 years and is still hoping that the work will be delayed. As yet, the details for the housing development - as described in a set of Design Codes - have not been agreed by the council. Mr King said that it is not possible to apply for detailed planning permission

to begin building work until the codes are approved. "We're determined to get the best possible development in view of all the factors involved and to delay until they've got it right." Developers Taylor Woodrow and Swindon Council seem to have no concerns that the Design Codes will delay work. A spokesperson said, "the Design Codes are at an advanced stage of preparation, with Swindon Borough Council and the Wichelstowe Project Team working hard to get the drafts ready to be issued for public consultation. We expect them to be finalised and adopted later this year. "The first homes on Wichelstowe are programmed to be completed by the middle of 2007. It is important to invest the time at this stage in the process to ensure that the Design Codes are right for this site and for Swindon as a whole."

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Which will it be - Wichelstowe or Front Garden? It's been known as the Front Garden for years. in fact since councillors on Thamesdown Council, which preceded Swindon Council. opposed Wiltshire County Council plans to build on it. Once Swindon be-

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of the area. In the Domesday Book of 1086, the area is recorded as Wichel.

canals and leisure pursuits, particularly aimed at reducing car dependency.' • The governors of Commonweal School in Old Town have agreed to relocate the school in the Wichelstowe development. www.wichelstowe.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

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Another of the photographs shown in court. Morris is in the red and black jacket Photographs taken by The Link on 12 August 2005 showing Morris and two other males carrying out a frenzied attack on another man were used by the Crown ProsecutionServiceinSwindonCrown Court in May to prosecute him. He claimed to be acting in self defence when a drugs deal went bad. Morris said the other male had a knuckleduster and he was trying to protect himself, The court heard from Link publisher Roger Ogle that the incident took place in full public view when hevisitedthevillagecentretophotograph residents and report on environmental improvements designed to make the area safer. He said the fight broke out within yards of local people including several children which caused alarm and distress to himself and others. The jury found Morris guilty of breaking the conditions of two ASBOs and sentence was deferred pending reports.

Returning to court in early June Recorder Paul Davison told Morris that he had avoided detention in a Young Offenders' Institution because he had already spent over four weeks on remand. Instead he handed out an 18 month community order which will require him to take part in a Think First programme, complete classes in maths and English, and observe a 7pm to lam curfew for six months, in addition to the conditions of the ASBO. The judge told Morris that failure to comply will mean a return to court and a possible jail term. Back in court Morris and two other boys from Freshbrook were due in court on 23 June for a pre-trial hearing on charges relating to the Public Order Act when local policeman PC Paul Matthews was threatened with a knife in Godolphin Close on 6 February. Morris is also charged with a further breach of his ASBO.

New sergeant in charge of West team PC Tim Titchner described in the May Link how the expanded team of police officers and community support officers based in West Swindon are bearing down on crime and anti-social behaviour in the area with increased uniformed patrols, using hand held video surveillance and monitoring CCTV cameras more effectively. Now Sergeant Nick John, right, 28, has joined the West Sector Police Team to drive the community policing agenda forward. Originally from Wootton Bassett he joined the Metropolitan Police in 1998 where he rose to sergeant in 2002. Nick was involved with the early projects to establish neighbourhood police teams in south London and will be bringing his experience in tackling low level crime and anti-social behaviour.

C www.swindonlink.com

The Link Magazine • July 2006 9

West Forum to look at future of Link Centre The West Swindon Forum looks at issues affecting all the neighbourhoods that makeup the area and is a point of contact, consultation and debate between residents and the 8 councillors representing the area. The next meeting on Monday 10 July, 7.30pm, in the Link Centre will be 4. _ _,` ,^ attended by the new leader /, max _ y ^^ ^^^ of Swindon Council Rod _ Bluh who is keen to meet people around the town to discuss Swindon Council's performance and the future of the town As cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration he jor long term review of leisure prowill also talk about the plans for vision. The Oasis Leisure Centre is the town centre and the Granville well past is sell-by date and is to be replaced. At 21 years old how long Street redevelopment project. The other major agenda item is has Link Centre got? Your viewpoints are needed at the future of the Link Centre. Swindon Council is carrying out a ma- the meeting.

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young people shouting and screaming on the play area opposite goes on most evenings. On one evening at the end of May there were 35 teenagers with trailbikes and scooters tearing along the road. We've all had enough of the aggro and continuously complaining to the council and the police." After a meeting on 9 June West team Inspector Willie Glasgow said he was asking his community officers and mobile units to pay particular attention to the village centre. "There are grounds for a dispersal order, but we are mounting additional patrols first to ensure young people get the message that they are causing problems." A George Tweed resident said she was encouraged by the meeting. "I think they are now taking us seriously but the proof will be in the action. It has been a bit quieter the last few nights."

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10 The Link Magazine • July 2006

It's the World Cup, get me out of here There are thousands of people around the country who have no interest whatsoever in football and will be despairing at the testorone driven highs and lows of England's campaign for glory in Germany. But Eunice Salmon from Nine winter solstice on 21 June and our Elms is making a habit of getting guides will perform an ancient Inca away from all the hype and an- tribute to the sun, mountains and guish - at least for ten days during earth." Eunice left daughter Laura, 12, the qualifying stages. In 2002 she , hiked the Inca trail in Peru to raise to fend for herself whilst husband money for Breakthrough Breast Rob and son Charles, 17, got stuck Cancer with Walk the Walk which into England's nerve jangling organises the overnight London progress through the first round. Eunice said she wanted to thank Moonwalk marathon each year. .'-.. On 13 June Eunice again took off Swindon Council colleagues who for Peru, this time as the Walk the have supported her walking Walk liaison representative for 12 projects in Britain and abroad, es-s.... women from across Britain who pecially those in Environmental ' are also taking a break from World Health and Trading Standards wh w "' ^ have baked fundraising cakes by Cup fever, ' : ! °' Last time she likened the trip to the thousand over the last few years. i. a long distance hiking version of • In May over 100 women from Big Brother. "The walkers are of Swindon took part in the Moon all ages and abilities; many could walk, down on peak numbers as not get on this year's Moonwalk securing a place has become diffiFrom the August 2002 Link. Eunice holding the July Golden Jubilee edition of because it's become so popular. cult because of its popularity. The Link on a ri dge overlooking Machuu Pichu with Swindon walker Ros Holland You could say we're going to be walking closer ncred "It's I an increible incredible experience erie to S hike up to 4,000 metres over three The Patients' Representative Group at Ashington Way Surgery in West Swindon have raised enough days, seeing amazing sites along money for a children's play area within the waiting room. the way, burning hot during the The screened area contains a se- Autumn and at the surgery recepThe patients' group is working day and minus 7 degrees at camp. lection of toys and books which tion desk, on a healthy eating recipe book Altitude sickness and diarrhoea children can enjoy whilst waiting Practice manager Elaine Lorton and is asking patients to send in are common, but to see the Inca for an appointment. Group secre- said she was delighted with the their own creations. Lesley said, mountain top ci ty of Machuu Pichu tary Lesley Page said raffle tickets play area. "It's a fabulous effort by "we'd like your tasty recipes. They as the sun breaks through at 5pm were sold when patients came to the patients' group so soon after must be your own and include is fantastic. We'll be there for the the flu Jjabs duringg the settingg P^The o Y sandbookswill healthyingredients. up. " g er Y for Y keep the children entertained as Send your recipe by 31 August they wait to see a doctor or nurse." to: patientreps.ashington@nhs.net

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Holly Lorton trying out the new children's corner at Ashington Way Surgery with, from left, Dr Adele Steptoe, Elaine Lorton, patient group representatives Lesley Page, David Berry, Ethel Abear

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The Link Magazine • July 2006 11

Grant helps MS sufferers with mobility The Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis has been able to purchase new physiotherapy equipment for use at its centre in Cheney Manor and at home by MS sufferers, thanks to a Community Dividend grant from the Midcounties Co-operative. The equipment includes a wobble board, handling belt and a sliding sheet, to help users maintain mobility and confidence to lead a more active life. For details about the services offered by the centre to MS sufferers and their families call 481700.

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12 The Link Magazine • July 2006

Getting ready for 20 Greendown Community School Family Fun Day to celebrate the opening of the school in September 1986 Saturday 15 July, 11am to 4pm at Greendown, Grange Park Free entry • Stalls, car boot sale • 5-a-side football tournament • Arts and crafts fair • Sponge a teacher, face painting, bouncy castle, raffle • Beer tent, BBQ, Fairtrade stall Greendown graduates reunited where are you now? Meet up with old friends or send information to the school as soon as possible. Call Julie Porter on 758842 to sign up for arts and crafts pitches at £15 and car boot at £5. Organised by the Friends of Greendown

School turns out to clean up their community Youngsters from Greendown Community School in Grange Park did their bit to keep their neighbourhood clean and tidy with a mass litter pick and graffiti scrub down on the last day of term.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Mike and Joyce Bawden with enthusiastic yoirngsters reuIt to hit their area

Operation Toothill Safe & Clean Thursday 27 July - morning A multi-agency project to tidy up Toothill Village Centre and surrounding area involving the police, fire brigade, Swindon Council Crime & Disorder Team, waste cleansing department, graffiti hit squad and others. Toothill residents are invited to join one of the clean up teams removing litter and graffiti. For details about taking part call Jane Dudley on 466473.

Nearly 100 pupils were given the morning off lessons to tour Grange Park, Freshbrook and the West Swindon Centre removing rubbish and scrubbing graffiti vandalism off street furniture. They were joined by Swindon councillors, housing department wardens, police officers, firefighters, church youth workers and representatives from ntl and BT. At an assembly beforehand Mayor Mike Bawden congratulated the pupils for their direct action. "Society does not take enough responsibility and litter always seems to be somebody else's problem. People of all ages drop litter; I think it's fabulous that Greendown pupils are showing so much enthusiasm for keeping their area tidy." In the run up to the clean up day on 26 May the youngsters had written to utility companies and representatives from ntl and BT came to the assembly. ntl contractors joined the clean up and BT

reported that their staff had removed graffiti or repainted 14 green and grey roadside cabinets across West Swindon by early June. Headteacher Steve O'Sullivan said he was proud that young people were willing to keep their area clear of litter. "As West Swindon's community school we are both delivering education and also addressing what it means to be a good citizen." Leanne Rayner, 13, said, "our community action group came together because we're sick of being accused of all the graffiti and litter there is. Young people should not be blamed for causing all the mess; we care about our area."

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14 The Link Magazine • July 2006

25th year fete Saturday 15 July, 12noon - 4pm Freshbrook Primary School Each class will present song and dance from the 70s and 80s Lots of attractions: bucking bronco, beat the goalie, Bluebelle majorettes, stalls and refreshments Display of photographs and artifacts from the Iasi 25 years Meet former classmates and teachers

Story time through drum talk Children at Bridlewood Primary School had a smashing time in early June when they took part in a day of workshops run by Drum Crazy. Every class had a session with John Walter who helped them tell a story using different techniques, group drumming and percussion. Rachel Hickman's Willows reception class, right, told a gruesome story of a lion looking for breakfast. The youngsters loved drumming out the blood thirsty description. The day ended with a Key Stage 2 performance with help from younger children.

Shopping spree for competition winners Greenmeadow Primary School had a novel idea for spending their book budget this year. They ran a book review competition and the lucky winners were taken to Borders to help spend £3,000 on reading matter for the school. Literacy co-ordinator, Jane was impressed by the selections. Hornbogen, said, "we wanted the She said, "they made very good children to chose the books be- choices and the only ones we had cause so often we impose things to put back were the duplicates. on them. We asked pupils to write This is something we'll do again." For most families,shoppingwith a review of their favourite book and picked the best from each two or three children is a nightmare. But, Mrs Hornbogen had no class." The winners, l6 Key Stage 1 chil- such problems with her troop of dren and 20 from Key Stage 2, were book buyers. "They all behaved taken to the North Swindon Dis- beautifully," she said. The books have been distributed trict Centre in two shopping trips. The young bookworms were around classrooms and the library. given a completely free choice from Each book bears the name of a the store's range. Mrs Hornbogen child on a special bookplate. Thomas Dolphin and Lilly Posthlewaite with other book selectors

End game for Freshbrook's schools 1

Swindon Council's plan to remove 600 primary school places across West Swindon could be resolved on 5 July when its proposal to close both Freshbrook and Windmill Hill Primary Schools are discussed by the independent Schools' Organisation Committee.

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School's minister Jim Knight receives the case to remain open from Windmill Hill parents at a meeting in London in May arranged by Anne Snelgrove MP

Yes

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The SOC agreed earlier in the year that Salt Way Primary would close at the end of term and the children transfer to Shaw Ridge Primary in September. Now the committee has to consider the large number of objections put forward by Windmill Hill parents who have argued that one of the town's best performing schools should not be closed down. The council says that the excellence developed at Windmill Hill can be transferred to a new combined school with community facilities to be built on the Freshbrook Primary School site. The report to the SOC setting

out the case for closure and commenting on objections can be found at www.swindon.gov.uk The Schools' Organisation Committee is made up of different interests - the council, churches, unions and lay people. If the vote is not unanimous the decision will be passed to the government's schools adjudicator. If the decision is in the council's favour, it proposes to open the new school by September 2008. • Swindon Council has removed the rebuilding of Toothill Primary from the decision regarding schools in Freshbrook and groundwork preparation will start soon.

The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

www.swindontink.com

Getting an international view through football Pupils at Hreod Parkway School came to school on 8 June wearing the colours of teams taking part in the World Cup, making a ÂŁ1 donation to build water wells in Uganda for the privilege.

North secondary school parents' meeting 14 July, 7pm to 8.30pm Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads Parents interested in finding out more about the new North Swindon secondary school on in Priory Vale are invited to a meeting to hear presentations from headteacher Rachael Mattey, the governors, the schools' admission team, representative from the Safer Routes to School and site managers Equion FM

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School dumps River View name The governors of Swindon's newest secondary school which opens in 2007 have decided not to use the name chosen earlier in the year. Known as Si on Raising money for clean water, back from left, Daniel Moorman, the plans, goverRyan Bailey, Sam Smith, Ellie Harrod, Jessica Knotts, Jess Leonard. nors decided to Front, Jessica Howell, Ben Harding, Jordan Large, Sophie Titcombe call the school on England's white and red predominated but a few brave souls turned the North Swindon Learning up in shirts to be worn by other nations. The normal curriculum was followed but to give the day a twist each Campus in Priory tutor group represented a country and pupils could earn points for Vale, River View. excellent work, behaviour or attitude. The name was At the end of the day three simultaneous assemblies were held to exclusively reaward cups to the winner tutor nations. vealed in the February Link but Chair of governors Neil Askins Organising teacher Rachel Peach said the fun day combined an apparently River View, arrived at confirmed that a new name is beeducational dimension with classes looking at how people in less well by a process of elimation rather ing considered and they hope to off countries live. "We already have foundation international school than positive choice, was greeted announce it at the parents' meeting. Unfortunately River View has status and we are working towards the intermediate level. The school by a lack of enthusiasm once it was has been raising money for wells in Uganda for several years and the publicised and governors decided been used on the latest edition of to put on their thinking caps again. the North Swindon map. World Cup gave us the chance to blend fun with serious study."

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16 The Link Magazine • July 2006

Orchid Vale plans open afternoon

Getting ready for first term on the campus Staff starting at the new Red Oaks Primary School in September came together for a day in June to plan topics for the term based on the theme Swindon: our town. Far from being a dry paper based exercise, the the curriculum to be delivered in a dynamic way, teachers, assistants and admin staff were sent off in with lots of role play and getting out into the commuteams to investigate Swindon's history, interesting nity, using the resources around us to enhance chilfeatures, the attractions and the contrasts between dren's education. "It's been fantastic seeing the staff coming toold parts and new areas like Priory Vale where the school is based. gether for the first time and working on their tasks. Headteacher Terri Menham said the topics will be Everybody visited the school site and we're all bestudied by children at age appropriate levels, but the coming more and more excited about the challenge planning project set the scene for her staff. "I want of opening Red Oaks on 11 September."

The first children arrive at the new Orchid Vale Primary School in Haydon End on 11 September. At a packed meeting on 13 June parents heard headteacher Debbie Kalynka describe how the school will be organised and arrangements for after-school provision.

At the end of their investigation project on 9 June Red Oaks staff and governors had to illustrate what they had discovered about Swindon with artifacts made from newspapers

Headteacher Debbie Kalynka on site earlier in the year

She said that the nursery and reception class are full, but there are places from Year 1 upwards. On 11 September Orchid Vale will hold an open afternoon from 2.30pm to 4pm for parents to meet teachers and look round the facilities. For details of the school call Mrs Kalynka on 07980 505391.

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The Link Magazine • July 2006 17

Summer school for 07 exam success Pupils entered for GCSE maths may not be doing as well as their parents believe and many would struggle with tests given to 11 year olds, according to tutors at the Kip McGrath Education Centre at Rivermead. "Unfortunately we're finding a lot of students come in for GCSE help and still cannot do the simple tt ^I things like long division or long 4 multiplication," said centre tutor Andrea Parkinson. "Whats more, parents don't realise that their children are behind on the basics. r She said that the secondar\ schools may assume that these skills have been learned at primary school but often they have not been David Parkinson of Kip McGrath consolidated. This is born out in a recent Ofsted tion to next year's syllabus. This is survey of secondary maths which particularly useful for pupils about criticised teaching which is tar- to enter Year 7 from primary geted at GCSE passes but fails to schools or taking GCSEs next year. Schools can also fail very able ensure a basic understanding of pupils who aren't being stretched. the subject. For many students the GCSE Andrea said that among the mock exam results this year were a younger children who come to leswake-up call and led to a big influx sons, many are very capable and at Swindon's two Kip McGrath this shows up when they are asEducationcentres. "Ifparentsthink sessed. "They have rarely been there are problems it's important identified as bright at school but to get a free assessment as early as the parents think they're not doing as well as they could." possible," said Andrea. The Brain Buzz Summer School There are now plans for an early could be the way to get ahead on GCSE maths programme to start next year's studies. From 31 July to in Year 7 aiming to sit GCSE in 25 August Andrea and husband Year 9. See the advert on the right for David will run classes to plug gaps in learning and give an introduc- contact details for Kip McGrath.

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18 The Link Magazine • July 2006

Family Centre Tardis prepares for community regeneration With so many services on offer at the West Swindon Family and Community Project in Freshbrook, manager Julie Batson thinks that it may need to be rechristened the Tardis. and a new child care manager are She is not far off the mark. Outbeing recruited to make the centre wardly 'the house,' as it is known a 'one stop shop' for family servlocally, is an ordinary 1980s four ices said Julie Batson who is lookbedroom property. But since moving forward to the changes. ing to 15 Gainsborough Way in "The trustees, staff and volun1986 it has been extended to the teers are all very excited that Swinside and rear to provide meeting don Council approached us to be rooms, play areas and creche the first Children's Centre for West spaces, in addition to offices on the Swindon. In the past funding has upper floor. limited our activities beyond the Now 24 years old, and like Dr house, but as a Children's Centre Who, the project is to regenerate we will do lots of outreach work to on 1 July to become the town's put us in touch with more families fourth Children's Centre, in partacross the area. nership with Swindon Council's "Some people may be happier Children's Services. Unlike those in Penhill, Walcot Trustees and staff at 'the house.' Standing Beris Drew, Sue Green, Brian Senior, to use groups in their own neighand Central Swindon where users Tracy Peck, Gulab Shah, chairman, Rev Stephen Skinner, Sarah Battershall, Niki bourhood whilst others will prefer to come to the house. This arrangego to the Children's Centre, the Hillier. Front, Gossiya Hameed ment gives parents choice as to West Swindon model will be a hub for family service across Toothill, Westlea, whilst groups and activi- with community rooms, as will the how we can work with them on Freshbrook and Westlea. ties for parents and children are to new primary in Freshbrook - if the childcare and development issues The house will provide an ex- be developed at community build- decision is made to close and com- and provide support and advice panded range of support to fami- ings across the area and in primary bine Windmill Hill and Freshbrook with any difficulties." Call 871303 for details of family lies. Childcare will be arranged schools. schools. through Headstarts Nursery at Toothill Primary is to be rebuilt More family support workers support worker vacancies.

West Swindon Children's Centre - working with parents to improve children's life chances Julie Batson explains how the new facility will develop

• The West Swindon Family and Community Project is managed by a Board of Trustees made up of West Swindon residents and representatives from local businesses. We will also have stakeholders from health services and schools. • Children's Centres are part of the Government's Sure Start Programme and are at the heart of the Every Child Matters: Change for Children agenda. This is the key vehi-

cle for providing services that families need and will play a central role in improving outcomes for all young children. • Families living within the Toothill, Freshbrook and Westlea areas will be able to access the following services through the Children's Centre: 1 Health; 2 Early Years' development; 3 Children; 4 Education and

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What is meant by Early Years? The Children's Centre will provide creches to support adult groups as well as some pre-nursery groups. We will have up-to date information on childminders in our area and their vacancies. We will be linked to Headstarts Nursery in Westlea which will offer day care for children if parents wish to return to work.

Children's Centre manager Julie Batson and deputy manager Alison Lowe

What groups will there be for chilwill be some a fter dren: There will training; 5 Family support; 6 Em- school groups as well as holiday ployment; 7 Advice, play schemes. Health services will be coordinated: ante-natal groups and baby clinics, child health support, speech and language development, breast feeding groups, health promotion, healthy eating groups and smoking cessation groups.

Will you be able to offer parenting support and advice? We will be working very closely with health visitors to offer parenting advice and support on child health and development issues - in groups and individually.

Will you still be able to get advice on benefits etc? We will continue to run our established advice point service which covers welfare benefits, housing issues, tax credits, DLA's, financial/debt advice. What about education and employment? We will be working closely with Job Centre Plus who will host job clubs/self-help groups, as well as providing advice on employment and training opportunities. We will also be able to offer basic skills training and family learning opportunities by working in conjunction with the college, local training providers and Swindon Council. When will the services come into play? Although we become a Children's Centre on 1 July, many services will be developed over the next six months and will come online by 1 January 2007. For more information: New health groups, parenting sessions and drop-in activities will be publicised through primary schools, via health and social workers, in leaflets and in The Link if appropriate. The Children's Centre can be contacted at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PD. Tel: 871303 or via e-mail: familyprojectl5@tiscali.co.uk What about Shaw, Nine Elms, Peatmoor and Sparcells? Swindon Council is proposing to open a second Children's Centre in the West at the Salt Way Primary School site in 2007.

The Link Magazine • July 2006 19

@ www.swindonlink.com

Last Ofsted for pre-school After celebrating a positive Ofsted report earlier this year, Pat Russell announced that her Brookhouse Pre-school at Washpool will close in July 2007.

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INFANT MASSAGE Pat Russell, left, with staff and children at Brookhouse

The pre-school has been based in Pat's house since 1990 and provides a homely environment unlike any other in the area. Next year will mark its 25 year anniversary since opening first in the Old Chapel on Old Shaw Lane. Pat said that she was very pleased with the Ofsted report which was positive on all aspects of the pre-school and particularly praised the leadership and the children's behaviour. The inspector wrote, "children behave very well and play co-operatively. Children

are relaxed and developing a sense of belonging." The pre-school will close next year when all the children on the roll will leave to start school. Pat has mixed feelings about retiring but believes that the time is right. She said, "it's been a big part of my life for 25 years and I've enjoyed every moment." Children will still be very much part of her life. Pat plans to spend time with her husband, who will also retire next year, and with four young granddaughters.

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Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon â For children 3 months to five years â Open all year from 7.30am to 6pm â Extensive outdoor play and garden r,

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20 The Link Magazine • July 2006

Free classifieds now available

@ www.swindonlink.com

Playgroup gets early twentieth birthday present The business of keeping a playgroup afloat financially can be arduous for the volunteers on the management committee, and it's a tougher proposition when you have a building to manage.

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to create a more interesting and stimulating play environment. When a grant application to top up our own fundraising fell through, Cutting Edge Signs of Shrivenham Road said they would sponsor the murals. "The children love the pictures, the bright colours, words and numbers which have completely transformed the outside of the building. Cutting Edge have done us proud and it's especially nice to have the project completed in time for our twentieth anniversary" The playgroup is planning a series of fundraising events over the next year including a big auction in October. They will also be taking part in Greendown School's 20 year fun day on 15 July to mark the anniversary.

Books of every kind

Wash and vac with all servicing

•

But over the last five years Greendown Playgroup has turned two tatty temporary classrooms into a bright, well maintained preschool centre next to Greendown School in Grange Park. The group opened in September 1985 in the school community facilities but had to move out when their room had to be remodelled and expanded to cater for extra pupils. Rather than shut down the playgroup committee acquired a temporary classroom and have been refurbishing it ever since, complete with external play area. The most recent additions are bright, cheerful pictures on the outside walls designed and produced by Cutting Edge (Signs) Ltd. Secretary Lisa Curtis said, "we wanted to brighten up the outside

Valid until 31 July 2006

A 5 week readathon at Tregoze Primary ended in early June when children came to school dressed as their favourite book character. During the event each class visited the West Swindon Library and li stened to stories told by invited guests. One visit made a particular impact when a crew from Westlea Fire Station had to drop their books to rush to an emergency, sirens wailing and lights flashing. Tregoze book characters with readathon organiser Judith Graham. rear right

Swindon & Cricklade Railway MURDER MYSTERY EVENING Saturday 22nd July Call 692588 for details. Ticket only event

THE LINK

MINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Swindon goes Brunel crazy A 10 day extravaganza of art, music, performance. workshops. children's attractions, fireworks, street theatre and the annual town centre carnival parade will mark Isambard Kingdom Brunel's 200th birthday in spectacular style from 7 to 16 July. All but one event are free, kicking off on Friday 7 July with Building Bridges, a compilation of acts bringing together local talent and creativity on the Wyvern stage. Then it will be performances and workshops all week until Saturday 15 July when the town centre becomes a fantastic riot of colour, noise and activity. Creativity and invention will be on display in the streets with over 30 performances from 15 international acts. At 10.45am, from the Town Hall. performers will join Swindon young people in the grand Brune/ - Engineer of the

Imagination parade.

Expect

something extraordinary. The Brunel Showcase Stage in the town will have a dazzling display of local talent. ranging from dance and juggling to choirs and brass bands. And at 1.15pm it's participation ti me. Swindon Dance is creating the biggest conga procession in Britain and they want you to take part. Throw off your inhibitions. clutch the person in front of you and shake a leg - and everything else - see page 36. On Sunday 16 July the focus is Swindon's railway heritage when

the festival moves to the GWR Park and the Railway Village, with a day of exploration and entertainment. The Mechanics' Institute Children ' s Fete in the park, reviving a tradition that goes back to 1866, will feature multi-cultural performances, the amazing Blondin walking his tightrope, fairground rides, stalls, games and more. Closeby in the Railway Village, have fun with the Digital Funfair from Boredbrand and HughJart's massive P articipatory art project. At the heart of the village there will be live music, street performances and interactive tours with Brunel himself. The

under-

ground link between the Railway Village. the derelict Mechanics' Institute and Church-ward will be transformed into a Time Tunnel, an enthralling environment of light and sound. On the other side hop on a land train and visit the STEAM museum, the National Trust and National Monuments Records Centre and the Rodbourne living history project. Come the evening of Sunday. 1 6 July, the festival closes in the GWR Park with a fire and pyro-

Railway photos at the National Trust Ray Nash's remarkable images recording the last 20 years of Swindon's railway works some of which were revealed in the April Link will be on display at Heelis. the National Trust HO, Churchward from 3 to 30 July. Mon- Sat :1 Oam to 6pm. Sun: 1 1 am to 5pm

technics spectacular finale from

outdoor theatre company Walk the Plank. The ten days are being coordinated by Swindon Council in partnership with a wide range of arts and community organisations across the town with sponsorship from Carillion, funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Swindon's Cultural Partnership. Flyers are available around the town or call into Swindon Informati on Centre, tel: 530328. www.swindonbrunel200.co.uk • Speakyourmindtothe Gigantona See page 22.

Blunsdon TONRTON TADP ELANE Station NONTH •e;„^ SWINDON Tadpole Lane a Tel: 771615 Trains: 11 am - 4pm a ^K o Cafe, shop and wES: SWINDON free parking

Now licenced to carry out weddings and naming ceremonies www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org

Do you need a hat but don't want to BUY one? Then call

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22 SW

indkn Wide

Isabella on the look out for Isambard the birthday boy

Building Bridges

A giant Queen Isabella II of Spain will parade through the town centre on Saturday 15 July together with another specially created tall Brunel. She's making a visit to Swindon to mark Brunel's birthday, from Nicaragua, thanks to Swindon Ocotal Link (SOL), the group which sustains contact with Ocotal, the twin town in Central America. SOL chairman Bruce Clarke said, the giant effigies, or r gigantonas, take the form of dignatories and are traditionally pat, raded at festivals. Isabella has a -` I special place as she was Queen of Spain who sent the conquistadors to South America to look for gold. ' s^ ^r "She's accompanied by a cabazon, who represents the small. stubborn but clever native Indian

A showcase for Swindon talent

SOL are building aspecial Brunel gigantona who will stand tall over the grand parade. Traditionally people use the opportunity to express their anger and frustration with local issues when the gigantona passes. So here's your chance to have a moan, i.e. provide more litter bins; sort out the menace of mini-motos; why did the Swindon Council's cabinet get a 30 per cent pay rise? During Brunel festival weekSOL will be hosting the Mayor ofOcotal, SenorMarcianoBerrios Sevilla and two dancers who will accompany

SE4F^e

Holder of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

Tic

On Friday 7 and Saturday 8 July the Wyvern Theatre hosts the biggest community cultural gala for

years as part of the Brunel festival. Bui/ding Bridges brings together local companies like the Janice Thompson Performance Trust. Jenny Sullivan School of Dance, Judith Hockaday School of Dance and Drama, Kentwood Show Choir, K-School of Music, SALOS (Swindon Amateur Light Operatic Society), Swindon Dance, Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society, Tanwood School for Performing Arts and The Western Players. To compliment the Brunel context a film made by Gurch Singh

and Martin Parry has been specially commissioned by Cre8 Studios and will feature Swindon Past, Present and Future, looking at the beginnings of the railways to the town's continued expansion. Before the Friday evening perSQL members ready to parade their /sabe//a gigantona with her cabazon Isabella through the town. For details of Swindon Ocotal Link contact Bruce Clarke on 463000 or mail: bclarke@ swindon.gov.uk - SOL salsa evening - see page 33

T4 n

Award Winning

SOL Annual General Meeting Tuesday 18 July, 7.30pm Function Room, Civic Offices The Mayor of Ocotal, SenorMarcianoBerrios Sevilla will address the meeting

formance a special launch event will take place in Theatre Square. A youth matinee involving many secondary schools takes place on

Saturday, 2.30pm. For details and tickets call 524481 or book online at: www.wyverntheatre.org.uk

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On Saturday 1 July a spectacular procession will wend its way from Wood Street to The Lawn via Victoria Road, Devizes Road, Newport Street and High Street. On The Lawn will be arena events including martial arts demonstrations, dance, gymnastics, fencing, majorettes and medieval displays. Around the showground will be found a Native American encampment, medieval village, fairground, stalls of all kinds and a dog show. In the evening Otis Grand brings

his brand of big band blues to the street events. Most performances Town Gardens Bowl, supported by are free of charge. local bluesman Bob Bowles. www.swindonjazz.co.uk On Sunday 2 July the festival www.oldtown festival.co.uk moves to Town Gardens with stalls, and displays demonstrations amongst the fl ower beds and s ^, _ under the trees. In the Bowl dance schools, ' Y arts groups, local musicians and ^t bands will be per-

Individual fashion. for the discerning lady

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Swindler Wide Let film take you on a journey Fans of cinema and science alike will be taken on a fascinating journey through film at The Science Museum, Wroughton on Saturday and Sunday 1 and 2 July. Trains. P/apes andAutomobi/es is a unique film festival. landing spectacularly inside an aircraft hangar on the former airfield. Organised as part of the Brunel 200 events, the festival is a cinematic journey through our in- Film venue: the Science Museum at Wroughton dustrial heritage and the machines that have char- Lockheed Constellation airliner, acterised it. vintage cars and hovercrafts. On top of a full programme of Visitors will be treated to an educational and entertaining collec- fil ms, there will also be an array of ti on of films, from rare archives family activities. educational events and silent movies accompanied by and tours of the collection. Peter Snowman, festival organli ve music, to documentaries and a special preview screening of a new iser, is expecting a great response. Hollywood blockbuster, shown "This is the first event of its kind against a background of impres- and we're hoping visitors will be sive museum objects. such as the informed and excited in equal measures over a memorable weekend," he said. It should be a fanPIXAR.-, tastic atmosphere in a fabulous Preview setting." shown at' Trains. Panes and Automobiles

www.trainsplanesautos.co.uk www.swindonfilmfestival.co.uk www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/ wroughton

SueLynn Partners For tailor made Curtains • Pelmets Roman blinds Swags & tails Cushion covers Measuring and fitting advice No job too small For further information call Sue: 01793 870451 or Lynn: on 01793 330595

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Free festival sets scene for annual event The Corporate Games at the beginning of June were hailed a great success. The Princess Royal launched the event which brought thousands of company sporty types to the town from across Britain. She also 'unveiled' Lydiard Park's restored lake by switching on a spectacular fountain for the first time. Families enjoyed a sunny weekend on Lydiard's lawns entertained by local bands and street performers. Swindon Council is looking at repeating the event with a greater local emphasis. Freshbrook and Grange Park councillor Peter Green halg h said, "there was a great easy-going atmosphere; I'd like to see this as an annual get together for sports, culture and arts."

Jake the Juggler by the restored lake. Be/ow, artist Gordon Dickinson with Lucy and James Medcraft from Shaw

Be%w the junior fun runners under starter's order

SALSA CELTICA OTIS GRAND & BOB BC FRESHLYGROUNDI JAllY B LION TRAIN Above, the under 8s make a break for It Be/ow, Members of the Rose, Hu/se, Gale and Rana families enjoying the sunshine

ALL CONCERTS DOORS OPEN 6PM (7.15PM JULY 29 FI NISH 10.30PM â€˘ BAR & CATERING

Swindon Wide Comedy on Lydiard's lawns National touring company Heartbreak Productions makes its annual visit to Lydiard Park on Sunday 16 July, 7.30pm with an eventful and exhilarating open-air performance of Shakespeare's popular comedy

Park Brasserie Card Discount Scheme Join during July & August for the chance to win a 15" Flat Screen TV & DVD Combi Drn, f 4. ,Ffhe D,. . 4

Heartbreak's performance of The Importance of Being Earnest against the beautiful, floodlit setting of Lydiard House was a sellout last year and early booking for Twelfth Night is recommended. It promises to be a funny. poignant and highly entertaining production. with brilliant verse and black comedy. outrageous and eccentric Intrigue, tension, comedy: but Twelfth Night characters and a compelworks out well in the end every time li ng story of the shipwrecked and separated twins. Viola Railway Children by E Nesbitt. Tickets (£10, £5 juniors) from and Sebastian embarking on a new life in a strange land, each fearing Swindon Information Centre, Link Centre and Lydiard House. the other to be dead. Tickets at £10 (£6 juniors) for Free tours Twelfth Night are available from Thursday 20 July, 11.30am & 2pm Swindon Information Centre, tel: Guided tour of the restoration of 466454, Link Centre, tel: 445566 the ice house and plunge pool at and Lydiard House, tel: 770401. Lydiard Park with Bob Davis of Bring your own picnic, refreshWessex Archaeology. Meet in the ments. rugs and chairs fora unique front of Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 outdoor theatre experience. Wednesday 26 July. 2pm Also now booking Lydiard Park's head gardener Nick On Thursday 24 August. 6.30pm, Burton will conduct a tour of the Heartbreak Productions return to restoration of the walled garden. Lydiard Park for an open-air perMeet at the front of Lydiard House. formance of the family classic The

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Wrag Barn are pleased to announce that we now have the licence to perform Civil Weddings, Naming Ceremonies, Renewal of Marriage Vou's and Commitment Ceremonies

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Christmas Party Lunches - £1 7.95 per head to include: 3 Course Traditional Menu, Coffee & Mince Pies, Novelties Christmas Party Nights - £28 per head to include. 3 Course Choice Menu, Coffee & Mince Pies, Novelties & Disco Christmas Conference Days £27.50 per bead to include: Room Hire, Arrival Tea/Coff E Pastries, 3 Course Traditional Menu Afternoon Tea/Coffee & Homemade Cake. Flipchart, Delegate Pad & Pen, Water & Mints All Chrismas events are during the month of December only and subject to availability. For Further information, available dates and bookings contact 01 793 861327

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De Vere Shaw Ridge Swindon. Shaw Ridge Leisure Park. Whitehill Way. Swindon. Wiltshire, SN5 7DW T 01793 878785 F 01793 877822 W: devereshawridge co uk

The Nine Elms Pub Old Shaw Lane, Shaw, West Swindon www.thaqjneeIms.com Tel: 770442

Sun Trapped Beer Garden & Bouncy Castle open for the Summer Bouncy castle up every evening & weekend * Bouncy castle parties * Child and dog friendly !! * Summer & Kids Menu available' * Sunday Lunch 12noon - 4.30pm

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Swindon Wide

Link photos on the move Swindon Council's Library Service new mobile was launched by the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon Mike and Joyce Bawden at the end of May. Decorated with pictures of library users taken by TheLink, the custom built vehicle costing £100,280 carries 3,000 books and audio tapes to 50 locations in urban and rural areas of Swindon.

Take the library home The Reading The Home Library service is lookMission starts soon ing for volunteers to join a team The summer holidays are almost here and Swindon Libraries are looking for young sleuths to investigate their bookshelves. Enter the world of espionage: keep a secret file; decipher hidden codes; solve mysterious puzzles; track suspicious characters; become your own book detective and participate in the UK's biggest reading promotion.

Above, the Mayor and Mayoress with the mobile. Be/ow, driver librarian Jenny L ennon showing off the vehicle featu ring Link images. They can also be seen on the hoarding surrounding the but/ding site for the new central Running from Thursday 20 July library at Regent Circus to Wednesday 6 September in all Swindon libraries all youngsters have to do is read six books and complete the activity sheets to receive a certificate, medal and free entry into a grand prize draw. The Reading Mission is launched at the Shaw Ridge Cinema Complex on Saturday 22 July, 1 0.30am to 1 pm. Children and parents are invited to come along; there will be prizes for those dressed in the best disguises.

which delivers books, spoken word cassettes, CDs and videos to residents of Swindon who are recovering from a stay in hospital or suffering from a prolonged illness at home. The service can also be arranged for people who find it difficult to get out and about. For details of becoming a volunteer or to arrange a home library speaker to visit a community group, call the co-ordinator Debs Osorio on 707127 or mail: dosorio@ swindon.gov.uk Photos of engines, boats andp/anes by Adrian Woo/ford from Park South are on display at the West Swindon Library until 30 June

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For great gift ideas Knitting & Haberdashery Sewing needs: X-stitch — Tapestry — Rowan Jaeger — Patons — Yams and Patterns We'll also gladly order anything else you need.

Dolls houses miniatures Traditional games & toys; local craft items In the Stable A great selection of local pottery. Also: China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent

In the Garden

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Mon to Sat 10105 . Sun 11 to 5

Swindon Wide What's Cr it Jul4 Children & Family Exhibitions To Saturday 1st Events Saturday 1st, 5pm & 8pm Return to the Forbidden Planet. The smash-hit dancing in the aisles sci-fi musical. Board the space-ship. fasten your seat belts for an intergalactic experience. £21. £16 for matinee. Wyvern. Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd, 10am to 4pm Trains, Planes and Automobiles. Film festival to mark Brunel's 200th birthday. Big screen films, including vintage footage, and children's activities. Museum access free. charges for some screenings. www swindonfifmfestivai co. ukor call 466454. Science Museum Sunday 2nd, 3pm to 6pm Lower Shaw Farm Open Afternoon Visit the farm, learn about sustainable li ving, organic and local food, gardening, conservation, healthy li ving and alternative education. Free. Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 8th, 2.30pm Wind in the Willows. Image Musical Theatre's popular format means everyone can take part in the show. Some children will be plucked from the audience before the show starts to learn to play rabbits. ducks and thieving weasels. Everyone else learns the chorus of four songs to sing in the main performance. £6, families £18. Arts Centre Sunday 16th, 12pm Children's Fete and Crossing the Great Divide. The New Mechanics' Trust is working with local performers, community groups and Bristol artists Cirque Bijou, to take the traditional Children's Fete, dating from 1866, to new heights. An exciting sound and li ght installation in the GWR Tunnel Entrance will take you across the ti me zone. Free. Faringdon Road Park, The Works, GWR Tunnel Entrance, Railway Viffage and Community Crossroads.. See page 21 for Swindon Festival details

Venues Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Heelis, National Trust Churchward. Tel: 817400 Lydiard House Tel: 77040 Science Museum, Wroughton Tel: 846200 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Gardens Bowl Quarry Road, Old Town Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Watch:wait. Syd Pycroft studies

people in urban landscapes portrayed through traditional monochrome photographic prints. Free. Wyvern Monday 3rd to Sun 30th. Mon - Sat: 1Oam to 6pm. Sun: 11am to 5pm

Line Dance

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Midnight Cowboys Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (off Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00 Thursday: Coleview 7,00 Community Centre, Nythe Road

Wedding receptions Anniversaries

Birthday parties Corporate events School proms

Charity fundraisers , VCh ri stmas parties % Call 01793 724275 / 07742 309677 www.adorablel.co.uk

Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

it Flights!

The Works. A photographic tribute by Roy Nash to the men and women employed in Swindon railway works until it closed in March 1986. Free. National Trust Heelis reception Friday 7th to 4th September

experience of a lifetime! ... Something different

for someone special! ights from f60 for 30 minutes

The Railway Comes to Town. The story of Brunel's transformation of Swindon from sleepy market town to dynamic industrial setting told through photographs. prints and postcards. Free. Wyvern To Saturday 8th Anna Maria Pacheco. This exhibition focuses on Pacheco's work as a printmaker and brings together five sets of prints, each concentrating on a historic tradition or social fable. Free. Arts Centre To Saturday 8th Swindon Curiosities: the art of collecting. A dip into the museum's diverse archaeology and social history collections and look 'behind the scenes' to explore the history of collecting. Free. Swindon Museum Tuesday 11 July to 29 August The Seven Deadly Sins. Work by Tim Carroll and Laura Copping: two a rt ists with contrasting approaches to the rich tradition of eternal damnation. Free. Arts Centre To 30 September Brunel 200: a series of exhibitions to include the Battle of the Gauges. Visitors will also see Brunel in his 18 Duke Street office surrounded by plans. drawings and equipment. Normal admission charges. Steam To 30 December Treasure. What makes a treasure? Precious metals, age. rarity? Or all three? Find out more in this exhibition of archaeological treasure from the Swindon area. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

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under new Musical Director Clive Compson, welcomes new players, in particular cornetists, at their practice nights Wednesday 8pm to 10pm in the United Reformed Church, Wood Street, Wootton Bassett. Parking available closeby.

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Meet and feed the animals * The world's largest living willow maze * Tractor and trailer rides & electric tractors * Giant straw bale stack and bouncy castle Kids crafty half hour * Indoor heated toddlers soft play & sandpit Animal racing at weekends and holidays * Granary Tea Room - homemade cakes! THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES WEDDING RECEPTIONS AND SOCIAL EVENTS

Music

Friday 21st, 7.30pm Abba Mania. Party, reminisce or Saturday 1st, 6pm to 10pm simply be entertained. £17 Wyvern Otis Grand and the Big Blues Band. Friday 21st, 8pm The UK's leading bluesman supported Gretchen Peters Trio. One of Nashby Bob Bowles. Advance tickets from ville's best contemporary songSwindon Information Centre. £10 on writers, her intelligent, introspective night. Town Gardens Bow/ songs have been covered by pop, Wednesday 5th, 7.30pm country, blues and folk artists all over Band of the Royal Air Force. Big the world. £12. Arts Centre band entertainment with stirring Saturday 29th, 7.15pm to 10.30pm marches and a wide repertoire to suit Swindon Mela: Jazzy B The Crown every taste - from The Dambusters Prince of Bhangra backed by a 7 March to Star Wars and Riverdance. piece band. Advance tickets from £14. Wyvern Swindon Information Centre. £12 on Thursday 6th, 8pm night. Town Gardens Bow/ Complete Madness. A musical journey through the story of one of Swindon Caribbean Britain's most memorable, visual and Carnival fun bands. All the favourites including Saturday 8 July Baggy Trousers, / 1 Must Be Love and 12noon - 8.30pm Driving in My Car. £13 Wyvern Buckhurst Crescent, Walcot Sunday 9th, 7.30pm Dirt rigs, live bands, attractions On Track: Janice Thompson Organised by Catchy Creations Performance Trust. A variety of songs on the theme of travel and the railways with scenes from the opera Brune/- the Little Man in the Tall Hat Thursday 6th, 7.45pm £8.50. Wyvern Where the Truth Lies (18) In 1950's Tuesday 11th, 7.30pm The Rock n Roll Years. Relive the America the partnership of two well golden years of the 50s. 60s and 70s loved entertainers is destroyed by recreated with all the youth and the discovery of a body in their hotel suite. Fifteen years later an investigenergy of today. £14.50. Wyvern ation reveals a tale of treachery, love Friday 14th, 8pm and lust. £4. Arts Centre Kate Rusby. Wednesday 12th, 7.30pm The winner of Glastonbury - the film. Julian the Radio 2 Temple's acclaimed collage of the Young Folkmusic and mayhem from over 30 singer award years at the world's greatest festival. has becom e . Performances by Bowie, T Rex. REM, one of the Radiohead, Coldplay, Oasis, Pulp, British folk -. Blur, Chemical Brothers, Joe scene's best Strummer, Primal Scream, Nick loved artists Cave, Massive Attack, Faithless, with a natural Prodigy, Velvet Underground, Rolf style that has Harris and many more. £5 Wyvern opened up folk Monday 17th, 7.30pm music to a Brokeback Mountain (15) An epic whole new love story of two young men who generation. meet in the summer of 1963 while £18. Wyvern driving cattle on a mountain range Saturday 15th, 6pm to 10.30pm and forge a lifelong connection. £5 Freshly Ground. Hot from support- Wyvern ing Robbie Williams, they bring a Thursday 20th, 7,45pm fusion of traditional South African March of the Penguins (U) The township jive and contemporary winter migration of the emperor grooves. Advance tickets from penguin is a tale of legendary Swindon Information Centre. £10 on proportions, portraying the strange, night Town Gardens Bowl spectacular destiny of powerful Tuesday 18th, 7.30pm characters. £4. Arts Centre Red Hot Country. A hand clapping, foot stomping fusion of the greatest traditional and country rock hits. £13. Wyvern Wednesday 19th, 7.30pm The Meat Loaf Story. A roller coaster ri de of one of the world's best known rock stars. £16. Wyvern Thursday 20th, 8pm Marty Wilde & The Wildcats. Marty pays homage to friends who helped shape British rock n' roll through the 50s and 60s. £1550. Wyvern

Film

V1 ^•

Col lin Comedy

Theatre

Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm

Katzenjammer. Four hands, one piano. Kevin Farrell and Steven Worbey amaze with their original blend of spectacular keyboard gymnastics and cheeky songs, bound together with unpredictable comic banter. £12 Wyvern Friday 7th, 8pm Laurence Clark: Jim Fixed It For Me. In this new show, disabled 'sitdown' comic Clark re-examines his past. Topics include telling Jimmy Saville to 'get lost' on TV. being taken to Lourdes and becoming a father. £10. Arts Centre Thursday 13th, 8pm Gina Yashere: I Don't Think So! In her first tour since 2001, Gina presents a show packed with inspired jokes. infectious wit and razor-sharp observations. £12. Wyvern Saturday 15th, 8pm Hellfire Comedy Club. Edinburgh previews from Brendon Burns and Russell Howard. Brendon's style is

confrontational and hard-hitting. Russell is a master of improvisation, thriving on spontaneous chats with the audience. £10. Wyvern Saturday 22nd, 8pm Club Class. A cast of four play everyone from pilot to baggage handlers on a charter flight to the Algarve - all set to the music of Steps. Ages 16f £12. Arts Centre Sunday 23rd, 7.30pm Ken Dodd. Treat yourself to a fun filled variety show for all the family with jokes and songs. £1750. Wyvern

Saturday 1st, 7.30pm Caught on the Hop by Swindon's Western Players. Phil decides to divorce Maggie and move in next door with his new girlfriend. Confusion, ill usion and delusion follow. £6. for tickets call 433297 Arts Centre Friday 7th & Saturday 8th, 7.30pm plus Saturday 2.30pm Building Bridges: see page 22 Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th, 7.30pm plus Saturday 2.30pm High Society. Cole Porter's glorious musical masterpiece performed by Ray Dance and Judith Sharp. £750. Arts Centre Sunday 16th, 7.30pm Twelfth Night. Shakespeare in the Park - an open air production. Tickets from Swindon Information Centre. £10, £6 child Lydiard Park Saturday 22nd, 7.30pm New Youth Theatre: Finale. Musical drama about a theatre director who has 24 hours to find a new leading lady to open his show. £9. Wyvern

Talks Wednesday 19th Talks and Slides of Venezuela by Ina Baldwin for Tootleabrook WI. Details from Jean Brock.- 539456. Toothi// Community Centre. Thursday 20th, 11.30am & 2pm Restoration of the Ice House & Plunge Pool. Talk by the project archaeologist. LydiardHouse Wednesday 26th, 2pm Guided tour of the Lydiard Park's walled garden with head gardener, Nick Burton. LydiardHouse Sunday 30th, 11am Swindon's Secrets Brunel 200 Guided Tours. A 90 minute walk around some of the hidden gems of Swindons industrial past. Free. but booking essential Ca11414797. Meet at National Monuments Record Centre Reception.

SUMMER FUNDRAISING Brook Field School Summer Fete Friday 7 July 5.30pm to 7.30pm World of Sport theme Special guest Jamie Cox Commonwealth Gold Medalist

Abbey Meads School Fayre Saturday 8 July, 2pm to 5pm World Cup theme. BBQ. been refreshments tent. bouncy castle, penalty shoot out Table Top Sale 8 July, 2pm to 4pm Herbert Harvey Court. Coleview Tombola. cakes, refreshments Call 616697 NSPCC North Swindon Family Centre Fun Day Saturday 15 July, 12noon to 3pm Chippenham Walk, Penhill Summer Fayre Saturday 22 July, 11am to 3.30pm St Augustine's Church Summer Street. Rodbourne

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

Free classifieds now available @ www.swindonlink.com

Swindon, the perfect retirement location Having spent 20 years holidaying on Spain's Costa Blanca coastline, Bill and Pat Edington felt they would be happy there for the rest of their lives living in their four-bedroom, three-bathroom villa overlooking the sea. The dream became less idyllic when Pat needed hospital treatment and, coupled with extensive property development near their home and the distance from their grown-up children, they decided, after eight years, it was ti me to return to the UK. "I lost confidence after my fall and longed to be back in England nearer our family," said 71-yearold Pat, a former civil servant. "The private hospitals were good in Spain but we couldn't speak the

language fluently and we worried about wrongly interpreting the doctors. We were concerned in case one of us became seriously ill or was left on our own." Bill and Pat Edington, who had lived around the world during Bill's army career, visited several properties and the Bovis Homes Retirement Living apartments in Priory Vale ticked all their boxes. They fell in love with the a twobedroom flat on the top floor of Priory Manor in Chastleton Road,

Bill and Pat Edington lap up the sunshine at Priory Manor

within walking distance of a large supermarket and stores in the Redhouse area. "Straight away we knew this was the quality development we were after. There was no comparison with the finish we saw in other developments," explained 72 year old Bill.

The location close to the Cotswolds and mid-way between children in London and the south coast was also perfect. Bill and Pat's complicated move from Spain was eased by Bovis staff and they were able to stay in the Priory Manor guest apartment during the transition. Their decision to come to Swindon has been a good one, said Bill. "Here we have complete peace of mind knowing the development is secure, that the staff are so capable and willing, and that the block is well maintained. "We love our new dream home and it is wonderful to be back in the UK."

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Westlea Primary School was full of older people at the end of May, joining in with art and craft, computer work, reading stories and enjoying assembly performances. The school's annual grandparents' day has become a key point in the calendar which is enjoyed by children and staff as much as the visitors. Right, Stephanie Piatek, 5,paintingwith her grandmother Helen Siddall Below, hand jive participation for young and not so young at Westlea

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The conga challenge is part of rate, school or team t-shirts to idenThe Big Dance, a week long Arts tify groups of dancers. Council initiative to get England Conga-ersshould gather outside dancing in the streets. the Town Hall from 12.45pm for a Swindon Dance are organising fun warm up. At 1.30pm the conga the local event as part of the week- will party around the Town Hall end of Brunel celebrations. Direc- and wind its way down Regent tor, Marie McCluskey MBE, said, Street. At 2.15pm there will be a "anyone of any age or ability can two-minute dance-a-thon for evejoin in - individuals, couples, ryone on Canal Walk. groups, families or company staff. • Contemporary dancer Banxy and We're helping to getthetownbuzz- friends will be taking dance back ing for Brunel." onto the street in a specially comShe wants people taking part to missioned performance outside dress to get noticed and hopes to Debenhams at 11.30am and see some crazy outfits or corpo- 2.30pm.

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

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Brook Field team sweep all before them Shaw's Brook Field Primary School hit a good seam of talent this year when its footballers took the title in every local competition entered. In early May the boys won the The youngsters won the annual then settled a tough match against West Swindon primary school Tregoze in early June to take the Swindon Primary School's Pentel Cup and the Swindon round of the tournament at Greendown in May, West Swindon league. BT school's challenge which took them to a play off in Milton Keynes where they were runners up. Coach Jon Stowe said he was very lucky to have a group of players with talent and tremendous team spirit. "The West Swindon primary league has always been very competitive between the schools but all the youngsters have a really good attitude to the game."

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Back, the BrookField squad, from left, Andy Edwards, Chris Siddle, ,' lattkecr' lour e, Mason Thompson, Ryan Turner, Matthew Parsons, Mikie Reynolds, Callum Fitzgerald, Alex Fergerson. Front, the Tregoze team, from left, Connal Rees, Braedon Cleverly, Jordan Bailey, James Wood, Ediz Donmez, Jack Duffy. Front, Danny Nicolls, Sam Rogers.

Super marathon challenge for Childline fundraiser A personal trainer from Redhouse is planning a 24 hour treadmill run followed by the Swindon half marathon to raise funds for Childline. Anthony Davis, aims to run 100 miles on the treadmill at the West Swindon Fitness First Gym on 14 October. He will then head for the town centre to complete the half marathon on 15th. He explained that he had always wanted to help children's charities and chose Childline as his wife Jo was abused as a child. She said that it Autkony Davis, preparing for his October would have helped her super challenge at Fitness First if she could have picked up the phone to tell some- miles a week when training for a one of her plight. marathon but admits that he As a personal trainer Anthony doesn't know how the treadmill knows all about setting challenges run will feel. He said that it will he and is confident that he can suc- important to keep his feet cool and ceed. "It's going to hurt and it will an ice bath will be ready to jump be hard work, but it's possible. into if cramp starts to set in. Swindon's a hilly course and I'm Anthony will need to take in not sure how I'll feel by the time I 25,000 calories during his ordeal get there but it'll get great public- the equivalent to 25 pizzas, but ity for the fundraising. My ulti- he'll have to make do with special mate goal is to raise £10,000 with sports food drinks instead. this event." To support Anthony with donaAnthony is used to running 140 tions, go to www.24hourrun.com

Netballing all summer long Ferndale Netball Club which meets at Greendown School in Grange Park will be training throughout the summer holidays in preparation for the league season in September. Coach Joy Blake would like to hear from experienced players and anybody returning to the game, or who wants to learn. Call her on 872237.

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

Get Active - Swindon Apart from the mass conga challenge described on page 36, try these get fit events in July: Saturday 15 July, 11 am. Sports Relief 1 mile run or walk around Stanton Park Active Swindon team is supporting the BBC Sport Relief event to go that extra mile for charity. To enrol register at: www.sportrelief.com or call Gladys Barr, Active Swindon co-ordinator, on 07768 687986 for an application form. Saturday 22 July, 10am. Fun day at Seven Fields, Penhill A free community led fun filled day of sporting and other activities for everyone. Contact Mel Robinson on 321487 for details.

Free classifieds now available

Getting all bendy to end school year Youngsters at Salt Way Primary are enjoying a wealth of activities in addition to normal school work to make the last term at the school memorable. Before the school closes its doors for the last time children will have produced big pieces of artwork to take with them to Shaw Ridge when they transfer in September, been on special trips to theme parks and taken part in a specially arranged drama workshop. Dawn Morse of Achieve Success, centre, posing with Salt Way children in her Bendy Bananas yoga session. Details of kids yoga classes during the summer holidays can be found on page 19

Thursday 27 July, 6pm in Swindon Town Centre. Hearts First Jog A two mile fun run for all the family around the town centre organised by the British Heart Foundation. Details from: hillsm@bhf.org.uk . www.bhf.org.uk

Achieve Success

PILATES CLASSES Shaw Village Hall Mon: 6 . 7pm; Wed: 7.30 - 8.30pm 24 Hour Gym Tues: 10- I I am; Wed: 2.05 - 3.05pm (Beginners) Cricklade Tues: 6.30 - 7.30pm YOU FOR KIDS Taw Hill Thurs: 6 - 7pm (Beginners) S ummer taster YOGA CLASSES classes in Haydon Wick Mon: 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners) Iill8August Cricklade Mon: 7.30 - 8.30pm Waage 19 Greendown School Tues: 7.50 - 9.20pm; Fri: 7.15 - 8.45pm ` 24 Hour Gym Wed: 12.50 - 2.05pm (Beginners welcome)

Discover the real game of croquet According to one supermarket John Prescott's front page image leaning on a croquet mallet has resulted in a massive boost in the sales of croquet sets. However these are games for the garden and Swindon Croquet Club is keen to offer people the chance to find out what the real game is all about. They've teamed up with the Active Swindon campaign to run a course for the 50+ and are offering twelve free places on a two hour course lasting six weeks starting Tuesday 4 July, 10am to 12noon. For details and to book call Carole Jones 873026.

Switch on to Swim Channel Swindon's leading swimming club, Swindon Dolphins ASC, has launched Swim Channel to boost the number of children taking part in club swimming. E 1 ------The Swim 21 Accredited club i have secured additional water time at Milton Road baths to run the : new programme which will be 1 ` spearheaded by newly appointed swimming development officer II Steve Cryer, a fully qualified coach, with qualified teacher Barbara " Beckett assisting. Unlike many swimming courses, 'I enrolment can take place at any time. As an added incentive, the first session is absolutely free. Delivering swimmers for the Dolphins Further lessons will allow the Steve Cryer and Barbara Beckett coaching team to assess the swimmer's ability and channel them can be assured of the highest calitowards the most suitable squad bre tuition. within the Dolphin club structure. Swim Channel sessions last 30 The emphasis will be on gaining to 45 minutes and take place after confidence in the water, learning school from 3pm to 6pm every and enjoyment but at the same Wednesday in the small pool in time promoting swimming as a Milton Road. competitive sport of choice. To enrol on call Steve Cryer on Swindon Dolphins were the first 07868 622422 or mail: development club in Swindon to adopt the Na- @swindon-dolphin.co.uk tional Plan for Teaching Swimming (NPTS), the Amateur Swimming â€˘ Dolphin Lucy Bouverie-Brine, 14, Association's blueprintforthecor- attempted to swim 1,344 lengths rect teaching of all stroke disci- of the Link Centre pool on 17 June. plines so parents and guardians equivalent to the English Channel.

The Link Magazine • July 2006

@ www.swindonlink.com

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

Ladies - grab your gearsticks for cancer care Marie Curie Cancer Care is invitingwomen to get mobile this summer for an experience they'll never forget. The charity is again running their Ladies Driving Challenge on Saturday 12 August at RAF Colerne, near Chippenham. This is a unique opportunity to get a big thrill from trying your hand at driving a range of unusual vehicles, such as fire engines, 40 foot articulated lorries, police cars, 4 x 4s, double decker buses and JCB5. The cost is £10 to register and participants are asked to raise£100 in sponsorship towards Marie Curie nursing services. For details about taking part call Clair Cusack on 0117 924 7275 or 07876 748717 or mail: clair.cusack @mariecurie.org.uk

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Safe space outside schools Children and parents walking to and from Oliver Tomkins Infant and Junior Schools should be safer by early July when a zebra crossing at Beaumaris Road is commissioned for use - at last. Installed by Swindon Council she resigned. The police and council staff are The area outside the school is currently monitoring the site. and paid for by a Safer Routes for School grant, the crossing has been now an official 20mph zone. The Elizabeth Wood, headteacher at under consideration by the West zebra crossing has zig-zag lines Oliver Tomkins Juniors, said she Swindon Forum for over 12 and parking on them will incur 3 was delighted that her children months. now have a safe crossing point. penalty points, But parents and the school have

been calling for measures to re`, ^,

+ P i

, zt

! ,",.

A campaign for better pedes trian safety outside Catherine WaytePrimarySchool,organ ised by Abbey Meads mum Michelle helle Williamson has been successful. Swindon Council has agreed to fund a road crossing patrol to ensure cars stop to let parents an d children cross before and after school. Left, Michelle with sons Tyler and Keiran

Former flyer's smart move Ex-Royal Air Force Flight Engineer Fraser McKenzie has just celebrated the first anniversary of the launch of his business franchise 'Car Medic'. Fraser, formerly of 47 & 57 dundant in 2002. , a fraction of the cost and time of Squadrons spent 14 years at RAF Another 747 job "' 'C Lyneham, flying the Hercules in followed, but so traditional methvarious roles, receiving decora- did anotherredun^^ ods" tions for services in the first gulf dancy. ! Fraser operates war and latterly the Sarajevo airThe uncertainfrom a fully lift. ties in aviation and equipped mobile After retiring from the RAF in the problems of livworkshop which

1998 he went on to fly for Virgin Atlantic as a flight engineer on the Boeing 747Classic,whilstkeeping his home base in Swindon with wife Debbie. Post 9/11 saw vast job losses in the industry and he was made re-

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stalled humps on the nearby Freshbrook Way which resulted in a shift of traffic onto Beaumaris Road. complained that the two right angle bends and the number ofparentsinsistingonparkingoutside the school had increased the / dangers to pedestrians. Although there were no fatali- y ties there were a number of near misse also ugly abuse of the = lollipop o lady dYfrom drivers before

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tics and body work. looked back. These days aero"With this industry approved planes for him are strictly for vacasystem I can restore the damage at tions.

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' YELLOW PAGES

The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

C www.swindonlink.com

don link. Available at North and West Sw

Stands on offer at Cricklade Show There's a great line up of attractions for the August Bank Holiday Monday Cricklade Show, including terrier racing, birds of prey, shire horses, magician, one-man band and male majorettes. There will be a children's funfair, an animal petting area and donkey rides, and the hugely popular horse show will also be a major feature. This is one of Wiltshire's biggest one-day events and there are still a few trade stands available. For details or to book call Sarah Elliott on 700599. Further details and horse show information will be publicised shortly. To be kept informed call Kellie Moss on 750382.

Performance at chip shop Lorraine Sharp from The Trawlerman Fish & Chip shop has won the most consistent employee award in recognition of her hard work and willingness to do that little bit extra for customers. Lorraine receiving a certificate and shopping vouchers from joint managers Alan Clarke and Helen Houghton with assistant manager Simon

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

Free classifieds now available

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A new character will soon be walking the streets of Haydon Wick, once he's had all the necessary health checks. Gustav, or Gus, is a Bouvier de Flandre puppy who has arrived at Janet Garrett's farmhouse in Pond Street, to join her three year old Bouvier Sebastian. He con ti nues the line of similar dogs owned by Janet following the death of her much loved Blue, aged 10, last October. Gus is presently a bundle of fur but will eventually stand three feet at the shoulder. Look out for Gus when Janet begins to introduce him training him for the Kennel Club to the outside world as she starts Good Citizen's Award.

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Talk to the animals Barking dogs, tetchy horses and stroppy cats can all be helped by Swindon's own Dr Dolittle, Ingrid Rylance, from Lawn. Animal communicator Ingrid, tribes as an example of people who below, has the special gift of being are still in tune with animals and able to tune into animals' feelings. nature. It's a talent she discovered when Ingrid has worked with most she helped calm down a friend's pets from dogs and cats, to lizards hot headed horse. Already a Reiki and snakes and has a particular master, Ingrid decided to concen- affinity for horses. Consultations trate on helping animals and has take place at the pet's home to become a regular at fetes where reduce stress. she has been honing her skills. Most people contact Ingrid beAlthough the idea of talking to cause of behaviour problems.." If I animals and dealing with negative can tell people what is bothering energy may sound a little off the their pet it's a big relief for the wall, Ingrid said that she is simply animal; you can see the stress reusing skills that have been lost to lease. Sometimes people just want modern society. She uses the Maori to know if their animal is happy. I can give hands on healing and I can show owners what to do to help their pets or to understand them." Recently the BBC 1 series 'Animals 24/7' filmed Ingrid and the r programmes will be broadcast in November. To contact her about consultations or to arrange workshops and talks, call 615321.

Big enough to cope art

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

Children to choose new play area for Shaw Ridge Swindon Council is going to replace the Eastleaze Fields play area in the Autumn and will be asking youngsters at Shaw Ridge Primary School to choose from five different plans. The play area close to the school However the ravages of time, large area, where the maypole and a farm was built in the early vandalism and higher safety stand- swinging chair is located. Work 1980s. In a 1989 survey by children ards means that it needs renewal. will start in the late summer for The present three separate play completion by the end of the year. it was highly rated as one of the No doubt it will prove a great areas are to be combined into one most exciting in West Swindon. attraction to the increased number Below, last days for play area before rebuilding. Right, lots of fun in 89 of children attending Shaw Ridge Primary from September. • Council officers will discuss the children's preferences at a public display of the plans at Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre, Ridge Green on Wednesday 19 July, 3pm to 5.30pm.

Tennis for juniors Free sessions for 3 to 16 year olds Sunday 23 July: 10am - 1pm Delta Tennis Centre, Westlea Turn up and hit. but booking advisable on 445555 or 465490

Grooming salons are not just for poodles! Whatever shape, size or hair length, all dogs deserve a visit to Hair of the Dog Collection/delivery available, or drop your dog off in the morning and pick up in the evening

Notorious newts make way in Taw Hill A problem with protected great crested newts in 2005 held up completion of a play area in Taw Hill. But negotiations were successful and the North Swindon Development Company were able to install equipment in Lh e affected area ready for the summer holidays.

74 Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Swindon Call Denise on 01793 608747 or 07866 507633

Talking to animals with Ingrid Rylance Animal communicator and animal healer Animal psychic and Reiki master Help resolve behavioural problems

Call 01793 615321 dobie.healer@ntlworld.com

Hillside play area now open One of Swindon's largest and most up to date play facilities on Groundwell Ridge was completed in early June. Designed and built by Swindon Council, with £350,000 of developer contributions, the multi-level play area offers great excitement for children from Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge and Groundwell. The January Link highlighted the frustration of parents because of the delay in completing the area due to the problems of building on a sloping site. One of the two new play spaces on the Groundwell Ridge

The Link Magazine • July 2006

Free classifieds now available

Could there be football in the forest? 22 July marks the second anniversary of a unanimous all-party vote at a full meeting of Swindon Council to continue to develop Shaw Forest Country Park as a key component of the Great Western Forest, reaffirming a 1994 decision and protecting the area from threatened development as a football stadium. Now use of the area for football A car park was opened to en- reation area like Mannington with body. The are 170 acres for trees of a different kind is being consid- courage more people to visit the short cut grass, white lines and and flowers; a 6 acre sports area ered and Alan Hayward from area, but Alan is raising concerns goalposts. will provide an amenity for large Sparcells, right, a leader of the origi- about a large open space in the "There is no supervision up numbers of people. nal campaign to block commercial middle of the forest which has been there. I fear the forest is going to "The council has been apdevelopment, is saying no to foot- graded and seeded by Swindon attract hordes of cha y s with result- proached by youth football clubs ball - again. Council as formal playing fields. ant litter, drink and drugs related and we have a duty to consider waste. This must not be allowed to how provision for young people happen." can be enhanced." He points out that the Swindon What's your viewpoint? Open Space Audit says the town Should formal, organised has adequate playing field provifootball be permitted on sion and the soon-to-be-closed Salt Shaw Forest or not? Let Way Primary School has an excelThe Link know via: lent football field that should be publisher@ swindonlink.com made available to the public. But Shaw/Nine Elms councillor Nick Martin, who proposed the motion to support the forest in 2004, says the open space in the park will be of benefit to all. "It's a question of findSince 2004 a further 10,000 trees He said, "the huge number of ing a balance of have been planted on the former people who protested against a uses for everylandfill site off Mead Way, includ- football stadium supported a foring several hundred at a commu- est with trees and wildflower July 2004 after Szoinnity tree plant day in March; many meadows, an environment for in- don Council backed thousands more will be planted in sects, deer and small mammals to the forest against a later phases of work. thrive. We did not support a rec- football stadium

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

www.swindonlink.com

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The Link Magazine • July 2006

Bridlewood pupils take a break in quiet garden A special spot in the playground of Bridlewood School provides a quiet haven for contemplation and reflection away from the usual hustle and bustle of the school yard. As reported in the March Link, the Friends of Bridlewood raised the £2,500 needed to complete the " structure, including an Agenda 21 Quality of Life grant. J. The garden has a raised area,

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trough beds, pergolas and seating and plants. Headteacher, Jane Rodbourn said, it a calm refuge at playtime for quiet activities and a place where you can take time out. It's really softened the expanse of tarmac next to the school." The structure and colourful planting scheme was designed by Sue Talbot of Planting Impressions. Hollie Medd, one of the pupils who helped plant shrubs said, "I always thought gardening was messy but I didn't mind getting a little muddy when we put in the plants. Now they look really nice." KaylyDicksonadded,"we'regoingtolookaftertheplantsbyweeding and watering them." The children are learning to respect their quiet spot as Keafer Rutland explained. "The garden is for quiet activity and we mustn't run through it or climb on it; we've been telling other children to look after it. The garden is a good place to read a book and talk to others at lunchtime."

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Young Bridtewood gardeners, from left, James Whitlock, Hollie Medd, Kayley Dickson, Keafer Rutland

hance to meet old friends

C When Alan and Valerie Trotman closed Grange Farm Nursery in Haydon End after 30 years trading, when they were bought out by housing developers, their next stop was not sunny Spain. Over the last two years they've transformed a large area of mature trees and lawns at their new home near Malmesbury into a colourful garden of shrub and herbaceous borders, with a woodland glade leading to a unique pergola, right. The garden is located at Blicks for The Y have p lans natural Hil House 1off the Malmesbur Y

water feature, a bog garden and other interesting features. Alan and Valerie are now ready to reveal their hard work and will be opening in aid of the British Heart Foundation and the Childreri s Hospice Association on Sat-

urdayl5and Sunday l6July, 11am to 4.30pm.

by-pass towards Cirencester, between the roundabouts on the left. Tel. 01666 829669 if lost. Purton In Bloom Gardens open in the village Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 July, 10am to 5pm. Entry by programme £4

DA. DRI VEWAYS & PATIOS LTD 0 Block Paving 0 Landscaping Fencing 71 Decorative Stone General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service, free consultation and written quotation Tel: 01793 878062 01 07866 523898

TIMBER DECKING - GREAT AESTHETIC APPEAL - I N HARMONY WITH THE ENVIRONMENT - DESIGN FLEXIBILITY TO BLEND INTO YOUR GARDEN AND HOME - CREATE ADDITIONAL SPACE FOR THOSE SOCIAL OCCASIONS OR JUST TO RELAX - PRESSURE TREATED TIMBER FOR A LONG LIFE - CA LL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION AND QUOTATION

TEL: 07834 765901

STEPHEN NEVILLE TIMBER DECKING ENHANCING THE AESTHETIC APPEAL OF YOUR HOME

The Link Magazine • July 2006

@ www.swindonlink.com

Chucking out stamps, printer cartridges or stamps?

Need help about health matters? The Patient & Liaison Service at the Swindon Primary Care Trust offers a free confidential health information, advice and support service on: Tuesdays 10am to 12noon at the Swindon Racial Equality Centre, 1 Faringdon Road and Thursdays 12noon to 2pm at Millen Advice Point, 55 Manchester Road. Drop in or call PALS on 708758

Don't! Swindon children's cancer charity. CALM, collects and recycles these items to raise money for their important voluntary work supporting families and children receiving treatment or after a bereavement. For details mail SamanthaJarvis: samantha.jarvis@ntiworld.com www.calmcharity.org

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted?

Repairs, Maintenance or new installation at a competitive price Eco Combi plus seven radiators £2,499 + vat

for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss

v Eco Combi replacement boiler £1,599 + vat • Boiler replacement only £1,200 + vat All other plumbing & heating work undertaken

Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u @aol.com

CSI

The 87 members of Swindon Stroke Support Group are celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. Anybody, irrespective of disability and need, is welcome to join the group's social evening every Thursday at the Methodist Church Hall, Stratton and to take part in monthly outings. To find out more call June McGinn on 348462.

Select Plumbing Services

Then call

TILEfix

Still strong after 25 years

Tel: 01793 772702 Mobile: 07770 555030 Prices above subject to survey 176726

Desi9 r15 Lt d

• Everything from a new tap washer, to a complete bathroom suite. • No job is too small. • No callout charge. • Free estimates. For a professional, reliable service, contact us now Tel: 01793 875888 Mobile: 07951761764 www.selectplumbingservices.co.uk

euO4%

Worked for the NHS? The NHS Retirement Fellowship Swindon Branch meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm at Nythe Community Centre Swindon The branch welcomes any one who has worked in the NHS and spouses, partners or friends. Members also organise outings, holidays and Christmas dinners. For details call Ann Rainey on 530035 or mail john.rainey@ ukgateway.net

TifeSure CERAMIC TILING Wa//s & floors Bathrooms; kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting Fitted by tradesman QUAL/TYF/N/SH Ca// Maurice on

01793349704 or 07904 142692

l1t1

Loft Conversion Specialists

YOUR LOCAL PVC-U MANUFACTURER

Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in converting all types of loft into quality living space. Whether you need more space or wish to expand your house rather than moving, loft conversions are a cost effective way of increasing your living space without losing valuable garden area. We convert all types of lofts including modern 'W' truss lofts. We are a professional engineering company, who make extensive use of computer aided design (CAD), to optimise the space and the head height within a loft and to accurately design stairs to fit into the complex geometry of a loft causing a minimum disruption to existing living space. If you need more living space for a bedroom, office, playroom or a place to relax, converted lofts make very attractive light extra rooms. Designed correctly loft conversions are an environmentally friendly, cost effective way of increasing living space.

Freephone 0800 9118695 www.acenti.co.uk

• Buy direct from our factory • We make it and we fit it • High security • 10 year guarantee • Lowest prices

Why not let us handle everything from start to finish? Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 OAS

LEE ORTON PLUMBING & HEATING O Central heating O Boiler replacements O Bathroom installations O Tiling O Power showers

Galaxy Plastering & Small Building Services All types of plastering, coving & decorating Garden walls, steps and patios

No job too small

Tel: 01793 722152

Call Leighton on

Mobile: 07887 541444

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fi tted free

01793 813438

or 07917 208094

0 & M ENTERPRISES For all your property & garden maintenance we are ... 'the men to do it..' All types of fencing, decking, pagodas q Painting & decorating 7 Laminate flooring -1 Kitchen fitting Loft boarding

7 Secondary fit carpentry Plaster boarding, plastering & rendering Plumbing, bathroom suites, outside taps

Choose from a wide range of fabrics from the comfort of your own home

MILESTONE

Building Services

GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE From dripping taps to complete bathroom installations 24/365 emergency service No call out charge No job too small • Fully insured Call Chris Bray on 01793 702171 Mob: 07951 219908 e: aps-enquiries@hotmail.co.uk

Bathrooms & Kitchens Complete installations to dripping taps

• Wall & floor tiling • Carpentry

Tel: 01793 613151 Mobile: 07836 799614

Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote

Ideas to reality • Plumbing inc. pumped showers, towel warmers • Electrics ♦ Laminate & wood flooring ♦ Appliance installation • Also other home improvements No job too small Tel: 01793 887766

or 07813 874284

ALC Electrical Services DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

BUILDING

• Installation, maintenance

Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking,

landscape gardening Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring No job too small • Free estimates Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

SER^VI^

• Loft conversions v Fitted kitchens & bedrooms v Doors & windows •:• Stairs v All other carpentry Clean. reliable 18 years experience Call Derek Panting now on: Tel: 01793 726750 Mob: 07766 083557

• Extra sockets & lighting • Shower installation, immersion heaters • Fuse boards, test & inspection Also genera/plumbing

h: 01793 879029

FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

• Painting & decorating • Glazed tiling • Timber decking, supply & fit • Rubbish clearance, household & garden • Carpentry • Kitchen fitting, supply & fit • Bathroom fitting & adaptions • Worktop mitres and fitting • Laminate flooring, supply & fit Peter Carpenter

m: 07764 788737 " P

Contact Paul on 01793 619428

PLUMBING SERVICES

p$ O °

MULTIFIX

PLUMBING & HEATING

ABC

Professional & Reliable

BUILDERS

• Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST q Home improvements q Carpentry q Plastering q Fencing

• Gas and oil-fired appliances

q Garden walls

• Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small

Na job too small

• Free quotations

For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm

AE, 206839

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

House Medic

building, Maintenance

• Electric showers • Power showers • Replacement taps • Exchange suites • En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails • Shower Trays And Cubicles • Complete Bathroom Makeovers • Insurance Work Undertaken

&Repairs • GARAGE CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS • INTERNAL ALTERATIONS • REFURBISHMENTS • MAINTENANCE WORK • INSURANCE WORK

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150 644 THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FOP A HEALTHIER HOME

, a

FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING REQUIREMENTS • Extensions * Loft/Garage Conversions

• Renovations/Refurbishments Conservatories

•

We have 20 years experience & specialise in extensions References can be provided & vie wings arranged Fast, friendly & reliable service from planning to completion For a free no obligation quotation, g 9 call: 01793 700454 e-mail: jmrbuildingservices@hotmail.co.uk

THE

Brunel Electrical From an extra socket to a re-wire we can provide a complete high quality cost effective service to our small business and domestic customers • Test, inspection and certification • Showers • Fault finding • Heating • Garden. garage. workshop. loft • Part P compliant • Local company • Extensions • Fully insured • Free quotes • No call out charge www.brunel-electrical.co.uk Telephone: 01793 422880 07785 988557 07725 804738 J

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Detail • Facsia Soffits Guttering Cladding • All work carried out on tower scaffold • Bargeboards • All sizes of properti

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

Ti ^

ESC

^ 10 year • warranty Over 10 years experience WWW.

9WISTK ^i iMls *LL tlr

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CARPETS & FLOORING Carpets : Vinyls : Wood Laminate Entrance Matting : Flotex : Remnants Stair Runners : Tiles Underlays & Accessories

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' FENSA

Registered Company

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett,

L 1 WILSON BRICKWORK Specialising in smaller works • General property maintenance • Brickwork/maintenance • Blockwork • Extensions/porche s • Garden walls/patios • Interior E. exterior decoration • Tiling - walls & floors • Free no obligation quotation • Other works arranged • Insured • No lob too small

LOFT & GARAGE CONVERSIONS

From concept to completion Free estimates

ASST- RCS

flRrVoRWYsE

Plumbing &Heating

Painter & A local reliable & friendly service

Installation & Servicing NG & LPG 3 Boiler & System Upgrades 3 All work

Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms 3 Power Flushing / Descaling 3 DIY Assisted Projects 3

approved &

Quality service Tel: 01793 635000

01793 700 820

Windows, Doors

PREMIER BUILDERS

& Conservatories

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

^ n Its -3 ei ^, ., . '!^

No obligation, pressure or gimmicks!

For details call 07738 004722 Office: 01793 877883 www.inspireconservatories.co.uk' Customer recommendations available (^ri.i,.u^na,w^ao,a,e

FENSA

guaranteed

For free quotation call Trevor on 07976 885203

or 01793 723023 my experience your pleasure' H

assured-plumbing.co.uk

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. 'No job too small'

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 0795 0017584 Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon

UPVC, Facia, Cladding, Soffits, Guttering • We o ff er Free quotes •No deposit needed f •Best prices •No salesmen •10 minute survey

Wallpaper specialist

Breakdown & Maintenance 3

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419 Email: brickwork@fsmail.net

Your caring family business

Also tiling, coving, dado rails.

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE

For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on

J ^%^!^!'^

Decorator

e[sisrEgeo

' ,^

•Local family business •17 yrs experience •Repairs & cleaning •No job too small •All work guaranteed

NO MORE PAINTING, MAINTENANCE FREE, DEAL DIRECT To arrange your FREE survey, call Richard on 01793 725155 or mobile: 07760 143221

NIL PLUMBING & DIY

KITCHEN, BATHROOMS TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAMINATE FLOORING HOME: 01193 615321 MOBILE: 07175 842241

zHOME IMPROVEMENTS All Four needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry, Extensions/Renovations and much more

Call Dave for further details or a free quotation Mobile: 07778 207977

D BUILDING C SOLUTIONS

• Loft conversions • Extensions • Home alterations • Kitchen installations • Carpentry • Wooden/PVCu windows & doors fitted

Quality workmanship Competitive prices For details call Steve on 07793 932481 or 01 793 848405

McQueen ropez-ty & I .nciecape fQersricew Ltd Home Painting & decorating Kitchens & bathrooms Carpentry Floor and wall tiling

Garden

Laminate floors Plastering, Dry lining

Landscaping & design

Roofing, Rendering Fascias & guttering

Garden maintenance

Fencing & walls Patios & paving Turfing & grass seeding

Ponds & pergolas

For a FREE quote with no obligation Telephone:01793 703233 Mobile: 07760 193890 No job too small - All work fully insured

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BATHROOMS

Walls & Floors

01793 876600 07748 964433

Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

Paul Comer on 321981 or 07775 840236 HEATING & PLUMBING

Plumbing & Heating Services

& CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 215153 Mobile: 07963 953439 E-mail: towcrplumbheat@aol.com

MAINTE NANCE

4-Class Services Swindon hased specialists in home refurbishment & renovation for private owners, landlords and commercial • Interior/exterior painting & decorating • Domestic cleaning, restoration & repair, • Gardens cleared and landscaped • Friendl y . reliable and trustworthy service E-mail ,A-Class Services for more information on info@a-classservices.cum

or call Sane on 07780 777477 www.a-classservices.com

JAMES O'SOLLIVAN Inte or & Exterior Painting and Decorating Wallpapering; ° Coving, Artexir & Plastering For a professional finish telephone 07971347345 (mob) or 616933

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted UPVC windows a doors Conservatories, fascias

and guttering Roofing £t building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DO UBLE GLAZING WINDOWS, DOORS, CON SER VATORIES

Rte.

I NSTALLED OR REPAIRED YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

01793 611398 07968 757860

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg: 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

O Hot water systems descaled on request

O 24 hour call out

Kevin Rolfe

O Natural gas & LPG qualified O British Gas trained

Paul IZhind

Quality Plumbing & Heating

O Central heating systems flushed (powerflush) ^`^ ri ^ii Quote 24

UILDING SERVICES

HEATING & PLUMBIN G

O Landlord/moving house safety inspections

"'t'e!

Established 22 vears

O All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed

O Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken

All at contpetitive rates

Call 01249 661572 or 07734 088185

HEATING & PLUMBING

• Central heating installations

Plumbing work undertaken

Interior & exterior work 12 years experience

or 07900 835116

O Warm air unit service, repair & installation

• All

Plastering • Carpentry Tiling • Kitchens Bathrooms

Call Andy: 01793 729354

30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained

• Servicing & repairs • Bathroom Installations

Small or large jobs

DECORATOR

- ;.i :!

welcome

Tiling

Free estimates

For free quote call

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

Bathroom and kitchen installations

Doors, windows, fascias, soffits £t rendering. Also interior decorating QUALITY WORKMANSHIP 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

r•

CHANT

* All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

EXTERIOR PAINTING

,.q

BUILDING SERVICES

flooring all taken care of

DECORATOR

-.•r

BUILDING SERVICES

Plumbing * Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics,

.. . 1a r.

Reg: 202015

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

Tel: 722449 • Mob: 07956 410982

I MAINTENANCE

MAINTEN ANCE GENERAL MAINTENANCE G 1

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Patios • Handymen • Extensions Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170 (calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

SERVICES

All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved

• Bathrooms • Carpentry & kitchens • Fascial • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Tel: 01793 434184 • 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.uk Our reputation is built on your satisfaction

PLA STERIN G

Brian Jones Plastering Services * External rendering ** Plastering two coat * * Re-skimming * Dry lining ** Coving ** New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

CARPENTRY

Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions Doors & windows All carpentry work E ^u Stairs o 2 Shop fitting specialist 'srFR F`

CARPENTRY

DPI carpe tiny Servuke$

1 S Property Services

ESTIMATES

Nome & Garden Improvements

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

O Fitted bedrooms ,;^ and kitchens r>=I` O Replacement a,• i doors & staircases O Laminate floors O Household repairs and general maintenance 0 Decking - supplied and fitted

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

ELECTRICIAN

FREE

General carpentry Fitted kitchens/bedrooms Laminate flooring Replacement doors • Skirtings Patios Block paving Decking Fencing • Turfing

New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

MOBILE: 07769 883717

d im

TEL: 01 793 876029

HOME MAINT ENANCE %JJ.J' Painting and decorating Floor & wall tiling Garden maintenance

Turf ing, fencing, patios Upvc double glazing Fascias & guttering

Roof repairs Carpentry services Friendly, reliable & competitive

Cali i

fl73 88 7450 07774 841879

Call now for a free, at home consultation

07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced

572043

RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD • Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156

Steve George for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 ALL KITCHENS FITTED

(Howdens, Jewsons

• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture

30 years experienced tradesman

APPROVED

WIND OW REPAIR

HOUSEMARTIN _.

GILES BI JS

))OCT))1). G)ASS

• FELT LT ROOFING ^

CERAMIC TILING

repairs & replaces cracked. broken or

NEED A

PLUMBER. •

ASPHALT ROOFING

for ally our domestic

S SHEET ROOFING

plumbing needs: leaks, burst pipes, radiators, immersions,

TILING

S SLATING

S SINGLE PLY

• FASCIA •

GUTTERING

FLOOR & WALL

SPECIALISTS Free Quotes

Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

CALL NEIL ON

Call Mike

installations.

01 793 700436

Call 01793 524200

07725 028776

on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

bathroom

etc.)

TILIN G

ROO FING

hot water cylinders, taps, toilets, tanks, ball valves and

Reg: 203455

or 07747 723606

ALL WORK GUARANTEED, FULLY INSURED

Services

07788

^•

KITC HE N & BATHROOM SERVICES

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 Building All garden work Guttering and Concreting paths fascia Patio repairs All carpent ry Patio jet wash

/4/

rates

Free quotes

PLUMBING

GB Plumbing

MASTERFITTER

24hr call out facility

HOUSE/GARDEN

'(/ 01793 334823

20 years experience in plumbing work All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

Call

OAPs

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

FLOORING

ELECTRICAL 3 EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS 3 SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS 3 GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS 3 SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED 3 FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT 3 COMPLETE RE-WIRING

FOR

Office: 01 793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

Dave Ody For all your domestic & commercial requirements

REDUCTIONS

Guttering/fascia

SAFE & SHAW

SERVICES

DECORATOR

misted double glazed windows Also hinges

e '

and locks Call: 01793 633336 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671

AERIAL SE RVICES

ACCOUNTANCY Specialising in: • Small Businesses • Tax advice, planning and

CHARTERED CERTIFIED

ACCOUNTANTS

01793 610008

•

doing the books after a hard day's work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

GARDEN CLEARANCE

•

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS

All aspects of accountancy and business development We offer a personal service with very competitive rates

* Satellite TV * Sky & digital terrestial * Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

Tel: 01193 100018

SKY

Mobile: 0777 6236415

C ARPET C LEANING The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

Ironing Service

Domestic Cleaning Services

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable NC a

House cleaning starts at just £15 per house Ironing just £14 per basket We will collect and return next day

You'll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Tel: 01793 875665

Email: ctiff.wswhiteway@btinternet.com

or 07780 625244

GARAGE DOORS he Automatic Choice

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon

Free estimates

Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 828700 Mobile: 07796 236436

01793 513796 email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Call Danny on 01793 702407 or 07957 820064

Disposal of unwanted items House clearance Long/short distance

or 07774 943 783

hone r n' Dusted

Also odd jobs & lawn mowing

uswindonforE20

Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379

The Cleaning &

or for information on installation and repairs

Tetra

L1 rs fitted

charge

1f Whitewa

NO JOB TOO SMALL

Single items moved anywhere in

interference lately?

CLEANING

GARDEN & HOUSEHOLD CLEARANCE

WHITE VAN MAN

No call out

CLEANING

.3 CLEAR AWAY

REMOVALS

TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points ^< • TV repairs • Freeview installation Noticed • Signal amplifiers

All work guaranteed

*. Storm damage

Located off the A41 9, ample parking 16 Dorcan Business Village, Murdock Road, Swindon SN3 5HY

Can't face

Services

AERIALS

or visit www.dykebrading.co.uk to see how we can help your business

BOOK-KEEPING

Aerial & Television

CHRIS PAYNE 3

payroll •

A ERIA L SE RVI CES

10% discount with this advert

SECURITY SYSTEMS

*SE

recut f Systems ltd

Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

•

CCTV

• Access Control & Intercoms • Intruder Alarms Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitors

•

SECURITY SYSTEMS 7fllP

_IL°

y Electronic Securit Solutions ) INTRUDER ALARMS

O CCTV SYSTEMS 0 FIRE ALARMS O EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS O ACCESS CONTROL O ENTRY SYSTEMS

O GATE AUTOMATION e: info@osesec^fi

SSa!b www.osesecuritv.com

For a free, no obligation quotation 9 ^ ssai,b tel: 01793 705216

Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Tel: 01793 814782

Mob: 07909 500724 Project manager Mandy 17 Elcombe Avenue, 'Wroughton www.donendusted.co.uk

AIR CONDITIONING

AIRPORT TRAVEL

COOLING & HEATING 3 Installation

AIRPORTS

3 Service

Connect Ltd

to all makes

•.

3 Sales

/ Free survey work 3 Commercial installations 3 Lofts and conservatories

Call Airgene on 07967 449253 o K

for 10% discount with this advert

CLEANING

Specialist airport

Reliable travel for holiday makers

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Home

5TH RI

Computer

Domestic Cleaning Services • Fortnightly cleans

One-off Spring cleans

Call Christine on (01793) 701413

lectri cs Es30 year

Same day, local service

07947-831378

01793-887883 %! ^

T2— ^•^ •COm 1 I V

WHY PUT YOUR HEAD IN THE OVEN WHEN I CAN CLEAN IT FOR YOU? RELIABLE & PROFESSIONAL DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL DEEP DOWN CLEAN

Twin Tubs, etc.

I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units

Service • Spares • Repairs -

Tel:01793 469300

COMPUTER SUPPORT Com Master's PC Repairs Why go anywhere else?When we'll come to you.....

:- Free home& business visits Jargon free advice & support Upgrades/repairs All parts & labour guaranteed

DRAINS ° o D MGBt o B LOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST •

CCTV surveys

•

High pressure betting

pipe lining

Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or v

• Locally based competiti e rates

• No call out charge

Mobile: 0792 005 6077

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time.

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

!GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE *. Free home estimates

01793 435392

drive

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The Link Magazine â€˘ July 2006

Cafe brings community together West Swindon Family Centre is looking for three family support workers to join its new team. Part-time hours negotiable. You will need NNEB Level 3 child-care qualification, have good communiction skills and be able to work on your own initiative. West Swindon Family Project is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and is an equal opportunities employer. For details, or an application pack, call Beris Drew on 871303

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The weekly cafe at Freshbrook Community Centre has been so successful that other centres are asking for advice on setting up similar projects. Run entirely by volunteers the Sandy Martin said it was great to cafe attracts over 50 people on see the success of the cafe since he Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm helped launch it last year. Tina Mackie, who set the cafe for coffee and cake or a meal. BBC Radio Swindon presenter up, congratulated the volunteers who have taken it over and said other community centres want to know the secrets of success. "I'm not able to physically run a cafe but I'm happy to help others get them going and I'm hoping there will more if we can attract Tina Mackie holds the Freshbrook cafe first birthday cake volunteers." with Sandy Martin and organiser Tracey Clifford

Collecting food near you In a short time Swindon Food Bank has become an established and essential service, with over 30 agencies around the town ready to give out vouchers to people who are in need of short term help. Most of the food is donated by From a standing start last Autumn, Foodbank now assists over the public at supermarket collec40 people a week by providing tions and also in businesses. bags of nutritionally balanced food Foodbank could also do with fiwhich will see them through a cri- nancial assistance and more volsis until they can claim benefit or unteers to collect and sort food get their affairs in order. This could donations. To help call Project Orbe a family whose tax credit has ganiser Richard Belsham on 07932 been clawed back by Social Secu- 108732. rity, a family hit when a business Supermarket collections soon: goes under or a perhaps a young July 1 Asda Walmart unemployed person moving to Sept 9 Sainsburys Bridgemead hostel accommodation. More of- Oct 7 Sainsburys Stratton ten than not there are children who Nov 4 Asda Walmart will go hungry. Dec 9 Asda Walmart

Guide places available again The crisis at 1st Westlea Guides reported in the June Link has eased after assistant leader Lisa Neale has agreed to become leader. An assistant leader is still needed, but the group can continue with parent helpers. This means that the Guides can recruit more 10 to 14 year olds to join. For details call Rachel Williams on 876434. Rachel Williams, who is leaving to help the Swindon Guides' division, with Westlea Guides

The Link Magazine • July 2006

Kick out cash by joining the LETS Do you believe that there is something wrong with present monetary systems? Would you like to become a member of a new local exchange trading system in Swindon, known as LETS? LETS is a not for profit group trade between members, but also run democratically by its member- provide opportunities for social ship who trade labour and mate- events. At present there are about rial between themselves without 500 LETS groups in the UK involvrecourse to money. For example ing about 50,000 people. There is an initial cash membertime offered to do a small job could be paid for by garden produce or ship charge of £10 and annual fee an unwanted gift. of £6 to cover the accounting sysMembers can run up debit or tem. For details about joining call Jo credit balances, and the accounts are interest free. Heaven on 07771 804365 or mail: LETS systems not only facilitate Heavenfamily@aol.com

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Link helps build Belarus bond An story in the June Link about Kristina Ezhenkova, the child from Belarus who visited Swindon in April, and the launch of a local branch of Chernobyl Children Lifeline brought an immediate response for organiser Virginia McGiffin from Haydon Wick. Four families who read the magazine have come forward to host children affected by the ^' Chernobyl nuclear disaster when 40 they visit Swindon next year. And Freshbrook dentist Brendon Ball has offered to check the children's

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

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Virginia said she was delighted with the reaction to the article. "I had calls immediately; it's so heartening that people have read about Kristina and are willing to share their homes with children from Belarus. "Brendori s help will be invaluable and we are very grateful." Kristina was found to have a cancerous mole when she was with the McGiffin family, but had to go back to Belarus for treatment. She returned to school in her remote village in May and Virginia is awaiting a report on a mid-June check up at the children's cancer hospital in Minsk. Virginia is keen for more families to come forward. She said it entails welcoming two children into your home, caring and nurturing them as if they were your own. "Life in Britain is nothing like it is in Belarus. There is no need to over indulge or spoil the children; providing them with

.......... .,

* Ate,

School

Mad, Village

Contra

Welcome home to Kristina, left, from sister Sasha, 11, who will visit the McGiffins with a friend in July

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

nourishing food and letting them play with your own children and allowing them to enjoy the cornforts of your home will be a holiday of a lifetime."

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw

St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

Cycle for Chernobyl Children Lifeline The new Swindon branch is organising a 1 kilometre sponsored bike ride for children on Sunday 13 August. Toddler groups, nurseries and families are invited to take part. For details about hosting and the sponsored bike ride, call Virginia McGiffin on 728251 or mail: ginmcgiffin@aol.com

Vacancy for church organist The congregation at St.Mary's Lydiard Tregoze is looking for someone who is motivated and committed to play the church organ on a regular basis at two weekly services. They need someone who is an experienced musician, prepared to play both traditional and contemporary styles of music. Services are mainly Church of England in format, and also in the Methodist, Baptist and United Reformed Church traditions as the church is part of the West Swindon Local Ecumenical Partnership. A honorarium is paid and there is also ample opportunity to play at the many weddings and occasional funerals held in the church, for a statutory fee. For details contact the Team Rector, Revd Stephen Skinner at The Rectory, Old Shaw Lane, Swindon SN5 5PH or call 770568. Closing date for applications: 21 July.

Toothill Church; Westlea Church

For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipoffice@btopen world, corn

newfrontiers

swindonfamilychurch The Alpha Course - Explore Christianity Babies & Toddlers - Wednesday Mornings Kid's Church & Youth Work

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Sundays 10.30am Family friendly worship and Bible teaching The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea

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We've plenty of Activity Camps and Courses to keep kids occupied and entertained in the school holidays - all supervised by fully trained and police/social services checked staff. Get a copy of our Courses Brochure and Kids' Holiday Guide from any of our leisure centres, or go to www.swindon.gov.uk/schoolholidays