July 2009 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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No. 326 July 2009 • Circulation 27,000

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40 years since the moonwalk

Top ethical award for West farm

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Matt Holland and Andrea Hirsch who run Lower Shaw Farm with Diana Eddy, who nominated the farm to receive an award from the Observer, and her grandsons Thomas and James. See story on page 3

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Swindon should take over 3,000 home expansion into Wiltshire A West Swindon councillor is controversially calling on the government to extend the town's boundaries Cricklade so that proposed development can be undertaken in a planned way. Court GaryPerkins(Shaw&Nine Lion process because the proposals central government assistance. Elms) said building another 3,000 are outside the borough. "Unlike new towns like Milton homes under Wiltshire County Another 3,000 homes will increase Keynes and Peterborough which Council's control, next to West Swindon by default-the process has grew with large financial input Swindon, is a recipe for planning already started with a plan for 200 from government, Swindon has chaos-and it will financially pena- homes at Moredon Bridge, next to become a success story by its own use Swindon council taxpayers. means. Then, the council was able Sparcells, being passed in May. Under central government's Within Swindon, in line with the to control the rate of development Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS), RSS, borough planners have allo- but this new regional direction for Wiltshire will have oversight of de- cated 2,000 homes north of Priory expansion takes the decisions out velopment at Ridgeway Farm and Vale at Tadpole Farm, in addition to of our hands. The Pry. The Link has been cover- the 12,000 house proposed for east ing this story for the last four years of the A419, close to Wanborough. I but Swindon residents have been Coun Perkins said Swindon has largely excluded fromtheconsulta- grown since the 1950s without

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to take in land close to Purton and Fellow Shaw & Nine Elms councillor Nick Martin said that 'piggybacking' development onto Swindon is unacceptable. "This is developer driven growth with little regard to the effect on Swindon." But Wiltshire County Councillor Mollie Groom from Lydiard Millicent is appalled by the idea that Swindon could grow beyond its present boundary. "There is no hope The areas in Wiltshire west o ,-. ,Iindon

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of these unrealistic housing figures being realized. The regeneration of the town centre should take precedence, to ensure a sound economic basis for future development. There has been the 12,000 home western expansion, 10,000 in the north, and 4,500 in the south has just started. With 12,000 houses proposed for the east of Swindon, why should Purton and Cricklade be taken over? This surely does not represent sound future planning." North Wilts MP James Gray told coup Groom, 'I entirely agree and will of course stand shoulder to shoulder with you to repel the find land 'westof Swindon' for 1,000 Swindon boarders.' homes. By 2008, with growth plans • What do you think? Should Swintaken over at a regional level, this don be responsible for growth to had been changed to 3,000 without the west beyond its current border? Mail: publisher@swindonlink.com local consultation. "If we don't agree with the RSS, targets will beimposed-in the west Wiltshire County Council is putting their RSS housing allocation right on our borders. This will make huge demands on Swindon's infrastructure like tr ansport links, sewage treatment, schools and colleges. "Wiltshire will keep the Sec ti on 106 developer contributions and council tax income. Swindon can't fund the infrastructure required; central government mustworkwith us if they want the town to grow to meet their plans." In 2004 a planning inspector called on Swindon and Wiltshire to

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Swindon's centre for the heart and soul wins top ethical award At the fourth Observer ethical awards held on 3 June Nigerian poet and awards' judge Ben Okri described Lower Shaw Farm as 'an oasis in the credit crunch.' t Old Town Ob) The event organised in association with Ecover recognised ethical server reader Diana achievements in a range of catego- Eddy, who nomiries. Andrea Hirsch and Matt Hol- nated the farm for land have lived at Lower Shaw Farm the award, said, for over thirty years, apart from a "it's a wonderful, _ short break in the early 1990s. The well deserved win. former dairy farm is ]eased from Lower Shaw Farm Swindon Borough Council which has done so much ` purchased the property and sur- for Swindon; it has rounding land in 1974, just before beenbecomeaheart Andrea and :V lilt t with Observer ethical colunmist the 11,000 home westward expan- and soul centre for Lucie Siegal and Colin Firth. Photo: Alicia Canter the many people sion commenced. In 2006 the council conceived a who want a more ethical way of plan to 'rn_cnnhicOcnfn' i-hn farm_

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r. that there was no dispute amongst r the judges that we ,. were worthy win ^^ ' ners. We want to thank all the thousands of people who have visited the farm over so many years, from Swindon and all Ethical garden award winners, Lower Shaw Farm tenants over the world, for Andrea Hirsch and Matt Holland, with volunteers in resitheir support and dence, Daniela Novak from Austria, Melissa McBride from their encourage- Canada, Rachel Clark from Newcastle ment for what we do here. And services, congratulated Matt and the hug from Colin Firth made the Andrea. "Lower Shaw Farm makes occasion even more special." a significant cultural contribution to Matt added, "this award is defi- Swindon. This well deserved award nitely one for Swindon and its peo- is national recognition for the hard ple; it puts the town on the ethical work they have been putting in over eco-map. Lower Shaw is all about many years." giving people the chance to work • Trophies were presented to green together for the good of all." politicians, community campaignCommenting on the foresight of ers, local retailers and for work with Swindon Council in the mid-1970s, children. Naturalist and visitor to he said, "all those years ago the May's Swindon Festival of Literature planners ensured there were riv- Sir David Attenborough received a ers of open, green space running lifeti me achievement award. The through the housing development ceremony was the culmination of which we are part of. The late a voting and judging process that Andrew Hake, the council's com- launched in January and attracted munity development officer, saw thousands of votes and nominathe potential for the farm when tions. Dick Kitto of the Foundation for • See The Link's coverage of the Alternatives approached the au- Lower Shaw Farm award and also thority about leasing a place to the battle to save the farm in 2006 start an education centre based on at: www.swindonlink.com sustainable principles which we • Eco delivery service launched have continued ever since." see page 38

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Strike a pose, win an iPod shuffle Things are pretty gloomy in the High Street but the New Swindon Company, Swindon Council and inSwindon have launched a project to relieve the blight of empty shop fronts in the town centre - and they want you to become involved. but taking action to Mirrors have been encourage recovery is incorporated in what will count in the colourful shop winlong term. Simple and dow displays making creative use of empty them interactive as shop fronts will help passersby catch their to show the town in a reflection, immedibetter light and cheer ately bringing them up residents and visitors at the to life in character — from pirates same time." and rock stars to ballerinas, Send your images to: www. They want you to take a picture of strikeaposeswindon.com yourself or friends in character and • The New Swindon Company and you could win an iPod shuffle.

Carol Heneghan of the New Swindon Company, said, "the retail market in Swindon, like everywhere else, faces tough times,

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Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint. Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com www. swindonlink .Com Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial copy date for August: 6 July Published: 25 July Copy for September: 10 August Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for August advertisements: 3 July "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has

Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks.

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photographs require similar authority

The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its adve rtisers

swindonlink. c om • July 2009 5

BBC Big Weekend: Not all fun for some

Window and Conservato ry

Angela Drew from Grange Park took exception to the comment Michael Dickinson, one of her local councillors, was quoted in the June Link: 'considering such a huge operation, I and fellow councillors had no complaints from local people about the big weekend.' Over the two days of the Lydiard himself through the airflow fence with three passes. If further event event she e-mailed Swindon separating her garden from Hook such as this are to be held, as coun-', Council customer services to Street. "My son was a victim of sellor Phil Young suggested in The describe major problems. These indecent exposure but my attempts Link, residents will expect to hav days of heavy lorries to have the police or stewards better information,communication' rumbling along Hook Street behind take some action were fruitless. and security." Mrs Drew said that local counher home, some ti mes into the early Whilst I appreciate that the Big hours, in the weeksbefore and after Weekend may have boosted the cillors could have been more prothe Big Weekend, difficulty in ac- local economy, residents who were active in keeping people informed cessing her home by car, a fight in most inconvenienced should have and responding to her e-mails, but Hook Street close to her back door, been better looked after by their said she had received an apology for the disruption anddistressfrom and the huge quantity of rubbish local council. "Our usual Sunday gathering of Swindon Council's head of comgenerated. Shewasenragedwhenher9year friends and family was disrupted munications Gavin Calthorp. old son witnessed a man relieving because we were only provided The scaffold gantry over Hook Street erected next to Angela Drezo's garden

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swindonlink.com • July 2009 Connecting people, Connecting Places is the Swindon Borough Council policy designed to get elected coun-

eop e cillors closer to the electorate, and to give people the chance to comment and influence the way the council

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operates. Every council ward across the town has been grouped into one of seven clusters and, as its a new policy, each cluster is developing along lines that councillors and residents feel are appropriate. The meetings are open and welcome contributions from all.

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Busy West forum meeting set for 13 July

North Cluster gets going in the pub

The West Swindon Forum has retained the name it has had for the last five years. Coordinated now by Swindon Council director of housing Bernie Brannan, the forum meets at Link Centre, 7.30pm and will cover: • An update on Connecting People, Connec ti ng Places; • West Swindon Access Survey - see the story on the right which summarises a survey in The Link over a year ago; • Traf fi c calming on Freshbrook Way and Cartwright Drive; • Opening up the playing fi elds at the Salt Way Centre, Middleleaze for community use; • Policing in West Swindon; • Issues raised by residents. The West Forum covers Toothill & Westlea ward, Freshbrook, Grange Park & The Prinnels, and Shaw & Nine Elms wards.

The first North Cluster meeting takes place in the Parliament Room at the Tawny Owl pub, Taw Hill on Monday 13 July, 3.30pm to 7.30pm. It will have a road show drop-in format with officers from council services at different tables ready to answer questions, with ward councillors on hand to receive feedback and respond to community concerns. The theme for the first meeting is 'Free Time' to look at: • Leisure (leisure centres, cycle routes etc.); • Parks (including the proposed plans for Moulden Hill); • Libraries; • Culture (including Swindon Arts Centre, Steam Museum); • Arts Services.

The North Cluster covers Abbey Meads, Haydon Wick, Moredon and Blunsdon wards and is coordinated by Allyson Jordan, head of Swindon librar y services.

Boost for West police team

Keep an eye out for drugs' factories

After a review of the way Neighbourhood Police Teams are organised across Swindon Adrian Burt is returning to West Swindon as the West Sector Inspector from 1 July. He will be basing all his 19 lnsp. Burt said, "residents constables and cornshould expect a nomunity support of fi - ` ti ceableincreased pocersattheWestPoint 4 lice presence in the station opposite Link West from I July." Centre and will also • The West Secbeabletocalldirectly tor includes West '\ upon response units Swindon North & who will be briefed r South, Rodbourne at Gablecross but and Cheney Manor, migrate over to the Penhill, Pinehurst

The police are making a big drive to stamp out cannabis factories set up in residential homes and are appealing for reports of unusual goings on in your area - to landlords and residents - including: • Comings and goings at all hours, • Some windows permanently with visitors often staying a very open, even in cold weather; short time; • Dirty windows, streaked with • Odd electrical noises or a quiet condensation. generator running; A full list of telltale signs and advice • Different/unusual smells near for landlords can be found at: www. swindonlink.com the property; • Building/DIY noises at To report any concerns you might irregular times; have, call Wiltshire Police on 0845 408 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 • Majority of curtains always 555111. drawn;

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Accessing West Swindon The March 2008 Link included a major survey about how West Swindon residents get about the area on foot and bicycle. Simon Lymn and Phil Martlew from Swindon Borough Council's Transport Planning team have analysed the results and are asking readers to make further comments at the West Swindon Forum meeting on Monday 13 July. The West Swindon Masterplan, conceived over 35 years ago before houses were built, was designed to link areas of housing through a comprehensive network of footpaths and cycleways segregated from roads — to encourage people to walk or cycle, rather than drive to local facilities. To provide robust evidence, some analysis was undertaken looking at Census data to give us an idea of how West Swindon compares with older residential areas of the town. The data shows that the Masterplan has had little i mpact on car ownership levels. In some parts of the West, ownership is in fact higher than the Swindon average as a whole. It has also had little i mpact on traffic flows, walking or cycling levels. Link reader response to the main questions in March 2008. Do you support the overall idea of trying to improve the local walking and cycling environment and facilities in West Swindon? • 98% Yes • 2%, No /Don't know Based on your experiences locally what are the most attractive features of the walking and cycling environment in West Swindon? Top 3 responses: • Separation from roads • Greenery — trees and bushes, green areas, nice environment • Easy to use, comprehensive network, convenience, ease of access to destinations. Based on your experiences locally what do you find least attractive about the walking and cycling environment in West Swindon? Top 3 responses: • Rubbish, litter, general maintenance (such as clearing broken glass) • Graffiti and vandalism • Lack of sign posting;difficultyof route finding

Streetsmart read y for graffiti

Thinking about yourjourneys to use local facilities, what changes could be made to the walking and cycling network that would encourage you to walk or cycle more often than present? Top 3 responses: • Better cleaning of litter/graffiti including general maintenance • More directions signs and maps • Increased number of paths to more destinations further away and where people walk on verges. Respondents gender: Male 44% Female 56% Age groups: < 17 1% 46-55 19% 17 -30 56-65 17` %, 11%, 17% 31-45 35% 66+ There is a clear issue with maintenance and clearance of litter/graffiti. In the last year the council has combined the services that keep the borough's streets and open spaces tidy under the title of Streetsmart. To report a problem call 445501 or mail: streetsmart@+@swindon.gov.uk. Streetsmart also offers a free graffiti removal service. More information on this can be found by contacting the number and email above or by logging on to www. swindon.gov.uk/ streetsma rt. Other problems highlighted by residents were understanding the path network and the legibility of signs. A lack of signage to key destinations makes it difficult for way-finding which discourages people from using the paths. The next stage is to look at improvements and we will be attending the West Swindon Forum to discuss options for change. We would like to thank all the residents who responded to our survey and would invite you to come along on Monday 13 July to put forward further points of view.

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New respite care at the heart of Lydiard Park Plans are well underway to build a environmentally friendly family centre for youngsters with disabilities in Lydiard Park to be run by the charity Hop, Skip and Jump. The facility would be open six member for childays a week for visits from special dren's services, has needs groups and schools, and for been closely involved mm^^m families to drop in. There would in the project. "I'm be after-school sessions on some delighted with the evenings, a Saturday club and care progress of the projin the school holidays. ect. Hop, Skip and Hop, Skip and Jump is well es- Jump provide su tablished ill Bristol and Cheltenham perb facilities and ir and has been discussing a centre at will make a valuLydiardParkwith Swindon Council able contribution to for two years. families and young The site is on the edge of the car adults with disabilities. It will be See the plans on 3 July park, opposite the visitor centre, a safe place for children who have The design for the Hop Skip and Jump centre will be on show for a Councillor Garry Perkins, lead specific needs." week at the Lydiard Park visitor centre from Friday 26 June. Council architects Nic Newland On Friday 3 July, 1pm to 4.30pm council officers, Hop Skip and Tony Currivan drew up plans and Jump trustees and parent representatives will be available to show the location in the park and to discuss the project in the visitor centre. were then asked by representatives from Hop Skip and Jump to design the building. Parish wants notice board ideas They are proposing a large log cabin, complete with a sedum roof Haydon Wick Parish Council is keen to keep residents in the area they and energy saving devices. It will cover informed in a variety of ways - including the use of good old house soft play and sensory rooms, fashioned community notice boards. a ball pit and meeting spaces for Parish councillors would like parents. There will also be special to know where new notice boards needs' play equipment outdoors might be positioned in the area the and dedicated car parking. parish covers which includes Hay"Because this is for a charity, Tony don Wick, Woodhall Park, Abbey and l have pu t a lot of our own time Meads, Haydon End, Oakhurst, into the building because it's worth Taw Hill and part of Redhouse. doing," said Nic. "It's more than To make a suggestion call Sue just another project." Martin on 722446 or mail: clerk@

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Young snappers needed Haydon Wick Youth Parish Council is running a photographic competition over the summer months for young people living in Haydon Wick Parish. Entries on film or electronica ll y from under 1 Is and 11s to 16 year olds are invited in two categories: Buildings and Architecture and/or Wildlife and Landscapes. Photos must be taken within the parish of Hayden Wick and the winners will receive a £25 voucher and have their image published on the parish council website and also at www.swindonlink.com For an entry form, call into the council offices on Thames Avenue, or mail: clerk@haydonwick.gov.uk

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Alcohol is a significant factor in our society- in moderation it's a source of enjoyment, celebration and relaxation, a positive part of our social and family lives. thirties and forties. But misuse of alcohol can result Working together Swindon and in physical, personal and social Wiltshire Alcohol and Drug Advidamage to the abuser and a wide sory Service (SWADS) and Swincircle of family and friends. don Carers Centre have launched Swindon Primary Care Trust esa new support group for family timates that 7% of Swindon people members and friends of people are dependent on alcohol —around with alcohol problems. 14,000 people. Dependency means Meetings are held on the second they are vulnerable to chronic Thursday of the month 6pm to health problems such as liver 8pm at Swindon Carers Centre, cirrhosis, hypertension, stroke, 1 Wood Street, Old Town. All are suicide and attempted suicide. welcome. About 80 deaths a year in SwinFuture meetings take place on: 9 1 don are directly attributable to July, 13 August, 10 September. alcohol — six families every month For details call SWADS on go through the trauma of losing 695405 or Swindon Carers Centre: a family member to alcoholism, 531133. many dying prematurely in their

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The centre, which provides support and a range of therapies, took possession of the ground floor of Evolution House in May. Originally it was hoped that it would move from its existing building in Cheney Manor by October but this could be delayed as splitting all the services which were shared with the Farepak warehouse has taken longer than anticipated. Centre managerJackic Wray said the building is being stripped back to bare walls and all the partitioning and ceilings will be removed to create a suitable layout. "Although work is underway and we hope it will all pan out but we're not there yet. We still don't have enough money to complete the refurbishment. "There's a lot of fundraising go-

ing on but we'd love to hear from any groups, schools, businesses or individuals who can help us achieve our goal." Call Jackie on 481700 with offers of fundraising assistance. www.msswindon.org.uk

Link landlord backs MS appeal Basepoint Business Centre at Rivermead Drive, Westlea has chosen the Swindon MSTherapy Centre as its nominated charity of the yearwith the aim of raising £10,000 through fundraising events organised by the centre and matching fundraising by MS volunteers. The first event is a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge on 27 July. Call 887799 to book a table to help the MS appeal.

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Heart warming welcome for medics in Syria Intensive care nurse Bev Cejer, from Grange Park, was among a team of specialist medics from Bristol Children's Hospital who travelled to Syria to perform children's heart operations in May. _ __Registrar Hazini Anwar, who spent time training hospital staff is Syrian, helped to arrange for via translation and a lot of practical -. the small team to go to the Al-Bir demonstration. Before they could charity hospital inHomstooperate start work, the Arabic script on on youngsters who may not have all the storage containers had t able to reach Syria's only be given English names although ., children's cardiac surgeon in the the medicines inside were labeled in English. capital Damascus. The hospital at Horns, Syria's :. ` ( ^.i . }^ rC During their week-long stay, the team successfully carried out eight third largest city, had all the equip--- --operations on youngsters, consider- ment necessary, even though some ,, ► ably improving their life chances, was fairly old. Bev was surprised "The parents were so grateful when that parents are not allowed into , they saw their child recovering; it intensive care which would be enmade the trip worthwhile," said couragedinUKhospitalsasithelps ,'r •_ •^ ^^ speed recovery. She said that in Bev. She and her colleagues also many ways, the healthcare system .^ . is like the NHS, y thirty years ago. Bev outside the Klzntirl lhn Al Walid mo^grr e E Every evening, the team were were being taken for a big dinner AI-Bir hospital's charity fund and invited to sump- every night and every dinner was the Bristol team is now looking for tuous meals as a celebration. It was hard for them ways to raise money for flights and medical col-to understand that we had to be accommodation for another trip. "We made good friends atAl-Bir leagues wanted up early for a concentrated day's very keen to develop and we to show their work." gratitude. "The Despite working long days, the link," said Bev, who plans to hospitality was there was a little time to take in take some Arabic lessons before phenomenal; we the sights, including the imposing returning. To discuss sponsorship or to ofj •. Bev zuitli a farnilli Crusader castleCrakdeChevaliers happy zoitli the life- and the beautiful Roman city of fer to organise a fundraising event, contact Bev via The Link - address saving work of the Palymera. .A, The trip was paid for by the on page 4. Bristol medics

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Swindon help welcomed in Belarus Dentist Brendan Ball was uncertain how his offer of assistance would be received when he visited Belarus at the end of May, but he was met with smiles and flowers from patients and an open invitation to return from dental professionals. Athis Freshbrookclinic, Brendon see him. The trip coincided with the "1 was quite overhasrovided free check-ups and end oftermspeechda y and,because whelmedb the warmth U calledd of the reception."" her voice,, he p/ I, treatment for dozens of youngsters ounp sters Gin had llost h Over thesummerfam1,_ from Belarus during their respite to address the school with fraternal visits to Swindon organised by greetings from Swindon, before be- ilies in the Swindon are, 1 . . r , : Chernobyl Children's Lifeline ing presented with a large bouquet will be hosting nearly Ali children from Ozarichi of flowers. (CCLL). t F e "The support Swindon families who will receive dent dl Having first travelled to Ukraine in 1999, and made several tripssince have given children from Ozarichi and medical checkup with dental equipment and sup- is greatly appreciated there; Gin is and enjoy a wide range plies, as well as providing training, worshipped. Adults and children of group and family Brendon wanted to see where his have huge respect for what she activities. charity Smile Menders could help is doing to coordinate trips to www.swindon.ccll.org.uk Swindon. in Belarus. RiSlit, friends to the east With introductions made by Gin McGiffin, chair of CCLL in Swindon, Brendon was able to meet • • • dentists in Swindon's unofficial twin town of Ozarichi. THEUNITEDKINGDOrt DNGR THERM EL AND NORTHERNIRELAN

Gin, Brendon, Tanta Ronlanska n'ith Lenin's statue in Ozaraclii

"The clinics were much better than I anticipated," said Brendon. "The main equipment was in place but disposable items were in short supply. And as in the Ukraine the emphasis is still on treatment rather than prevention." Talks with officials went extremely well and Brendon's offer to take a mobile clinic to the area was gratefully accepted. "They were super; there was none of the antagonism or suspicion that I've come across in the past." Youngsters who had been treated by Brendon were also delighted to

(dl 1111011

MAKING TOMORROW A BETTER PLACE

14 swindonlink.com • July 2009

Link makes another visit to the lost city Altitude sickness and a gruelling trek were forgotten when Martyn Bailey from Westlea finally arrived at the sun gates of the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru at the end of May. Accompanied by his son, Dale, done to avoid altitude sickness and affected but, after a day resting and to pose for a photo holding The he took part in a four day trek to Martyn was struck down almost acclimatising, they were ready to Link in front of the mystical ruins the ancient site, raising £4,000 for as soon as he set foot off the plane. set off. The challenge of walking at of the UNESCO world heritage Marie Curie Cancer Care. Dale "Either you're going to get it or altitude was compounded by upset site. "We were warned off on the gave up smoking to take part in you're not. I felt really sick and had stomachs but there was never any first day so when we went back. I asked someone to quickly take a the challenge and the pair had been a throbbing head and my heart was talk of giving up. "The best moment was when photo and then ran back to the bus regulars at the gym in preparation. beating twice as fast as usual." Unfortunately, there is little to be Six members of the party were we went through the sun gates in before anyone noticed." You can still help Martyn and the late afternoon at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level and we looked Dale at: www.justgiving.com/ down at Machu Picchu. It was very martynanddale • Eunice Salmon was pictured with emotional." the positive newsforce With thoughts of home, Martyn The Link at Machu Picchu in the inSwindon ,e risked the authorities' displeasure August 2002 edition I,Jj

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Big boost for round Britain Rachel

Parents meet headteacher for first time

A remarkable teenager from Peatmoor, who is looking forward to her fifth year in remission from leukaemia, is hoping to join famed sailor Dame Ellen MacArthur as a volunteer helper. In May Rachel Blackford took part in her fourth trip with the Ellen MacArthur Trust which uses sailing to boost the confidence of young people who have had cancer or leukaemia. Rachel was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2005 and said. "It wig the longest I've been missed almost 12 months of school on; a whole week. It was good to during her treatment. She said, build up my experience of sailing "being out of school for so long, I and getting to know the others." Dame Ellen, above, visited for lost a lot of confidence and sailing really helped bring it back. It's been photos and interviews before joinabsolutely brilliant every year; as ing the youngsters for a day. "She soon as I get back, I talk about it was interested to know about us and what was going on in our lives." non-stop to friends and family." Rachel, who gained 12 A * GCSEs Rachel set sail from Cowes with four other young people and volun- at Braden Forest, despite her illness, teers from the Trust. On their 48 foot has just taken her A Levels. She yacht, Scarlet Oyster, they sailed the hopes to set a course for Oxford first leg of the four month round University in September to read phiBritain trip, from Cowes to Dover. losophy, politics and economics. Bitten by the sailing bug, she They were given a fantastic send off with over 30 boats following and also plans to take her day skipper cannons fired to mark the start of qualification so that she can become a volunteer for the Ellen MacArthur the voyage. "This was the best trip so far," she Crust next year.

The first ever meeting for parents who have enrolled their children for the Oakhurst Community Primary School took place on 9 June with headteacher Dale Burr welcoming about 50 parents. Mr Burr will be joined by foundation stage teacher Gillian Jones, Kasia Wojewodka, Year 1 teacher , currently at Bridlewood Primary School, and Denise Barkham, also at Bridlewood Primary, who will be school bursar. Mr Burr, who is headteacher at Minety Primary School, told parents he had vowed never to be involved o in another brand new Dale Bin randhisstaff fronileftKasiaWojeoodka, Denise Barkhain, Gillian Jones school, but the opportunity to return to Swindon was too great the meeting was taking place, given they had to campaign to have the an attraction, "It will be blood, sweat and school built, then argue for it to be tears, but Ms Wojewodka and Mrs run by Swindon Councilratherthan Barkham have both experienced a Muslim faith organisation. LisaDavissaid, "it's almostoverthe joys of opening a brand new school. We know how hard parents whelming, it's been such a struggle have worked to get their school and to get to this stage. To finally have a we want to be part of building the school for the Oakhurstcommunity is unbelievably fantastic." Oakhurst community." The foundation stage is almost The school will open for reception and Year 1 children in two full, but there are about 20 places temporary classrooms in September for Year 1 children. To contact Mr Burr mail: dburr@ in a corner of the site on Pioneer Road. Building work on the 240 swindon.gov.ukorleaveamessage place permanent school has started on 463877. with completion programmed for • Read about the battle to secure Oakhurst primary at www.swinJuly 2010. Some parents could not believe donlink.com

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Wyvern to become Fat Sam's speakeasy 'rtant education.

Isambard Community School is putting on the style for its first ever whole school production by taking over the Wyvern Theatre for two nights on 21 and 22 July to put on 'Bugsy'

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Based on Alan Parker's Oscar winning film Bugsy Malone, the Year 7 and 8 youngsters have been rehearsing the musical, set in prohibition era gangster Chicago, since February. Head of music Nathan Jones said with a large cast of dancers, singers and gang members, nearly half the school is involved in the production. "It's quite a challenge to fill 1,200 seats for our first ever show, but I'm sure we'll do it. Isambard will become a specialist Performing and Media Arts college in September and Bugsy will be an excellent showcase for its talents. Tickets at 55 are available from the Wyvern box office on 524481.

swindonlink.com • July 2009 17

Two Swindon primaries win national awards A maths initiative at Moredon Primary School that has led to soaring SATs results has been recognised with a national award from the Times Educational Supplement. Sixteen staff from the school at- The walls have a whitehoard area lems - questions displayed on answer, before explaining it to the tended the fi rstTES Primary Award where fresh problems appear each large laminated sheets. Working in rest of the class. "Our problem was that pupils ceremony at the Park Lane Hilton day and children are encouraged to groups, they discuss the best approach and work through a series get into SATs and often don't know to hear that Moredon has won the try them at any time. award for Outstanding Numeracy Youngsters also tackle Big Prob- of prompts to come up with the how to approach a question," said Ms McLaren. "Our approach is far Initiative of the Year. Also at the ° less formal and children engage in i , '^ ceremony, hosted by Rory Bremner, serious mathematical discussions were staff from Drove Primarvwho . without worrying about ge tt ing T a ,(^ _ picked up the Outstanding Cornthings wrong." munity Involvement trophy. After only one year of the initia+ i. s Moredon'sassistantheadteacher five, Moredon's SATs results last Violet McLaren, right with her class, year showed an increase of 13 per was responsible for creating a cent achieving Level 5 in maths, a teaching strategy which encour°, total of 57 per cent of pupils. ages youngsters to learn about maths through discussion. She -?' developed the idea after obserying teaching methods in Chinese schools. Each classroom has a Working Wall which shows how to perform mathematical functions.

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Greendown School does not accept some people's proudly held view that they're not good at the subject and, as a specialist maths school, is doing all it can to demonstrate that maths is embedded in everyday life. In late May staff and pupils held in a'maths in the high s tr eet' day, and set up tables in the town cen tr e explaining the use of maths in sport, the body, nature, magic, art, food, school and construction. Hands on activities promoted much amusement and discussion amongst the public. Organiser Gillian Sarjent said there will be follow up courses to help parents learn more about their children's maths and how to improve numeracy.

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Aspire for top tuition with Government help on fees Tuition with professional teachers at Aspire could cost less than the price of a single revision book thanks to Government child care vouchers. Aspire, founded by experienced teachers, Andrea and David Parkinson, has registered with Ofsted as a childcare provider. This means that parents entitled to working tax credit can use it towards the cost of tuition. Aspire offers Maths, English and Science for seven to 16 year olds at Basepoint Business Centre in West Swindon. After an initial assessment, an individual programme is drawn up for each child. Tutors work in

a ratio of one to four and use a variety of teachingmaterialsand software to suit each learner's style. David Parkinson said the voluntary Ofsted registration brings peace of mind and cost savings for parents. "They can

be assured that all our teachers are fully qualified and experienced, are CRB checked and that we have child protection policies in place. This means that parents and their children can benefit from child care and excellent tuition

at the same time." For families qualifying for the full child care allowance, 80 minutes of tuition could cost as little as £4.80. Parents could be missing out on the child care element of Working Tax Credit if they pay less than £133 per week for their existing childcare. They could also be losing their allowance if their child is looked after by a friend or relative, or they have older children who are not in childcare after school. Call Aspire on 726263. www.aspiretuition.co.uk

Drama Babes grows up Growing along with the youngsters who joined her fi rst playful drama classes, Fiona da Silva-Adams has re-launched her classes to focus on teaching 5 to 11 year olds. Many of the youngsters who portive environment, encouraged Two years ago, Fiona set up Drama Babes to give children an joined as Babes have already gone by Fiona to devise their own sketchopportunity to explore story telling on to the performing arts classes, es and routines. "If they're coming through drama in a no pressure en- with themes such as High School out of themselves and enjoying it, vironment. Alongside the tremen- Musical, Mamma Mia, Hannah that's what it's all about." Drama Babes Evolution after dously popular pre-school classes, Montana and Camp Rock. Fiona, she began teaching performing arts who holds a degree in performing school clubs are available to pupils classes for older children. Over- arts, devises classes tailored to the at Bridlewood and Shaw Ridge but Fiona would like to hear from any whelmed by demand for places, youngsters' interests. "Although we're evolving, the otherschoolsinterestedinperformFiona has taken the difficult decision to wind down Drama Babes ethos will remain the same; Drama ing arts sessions. Children from any and focus on the next step; Drama Babes has always been about ha - school can go to a Friday evening ing fun with no pressure. No child class at Cricklade Leisure Centre Babes Evolution. ever has to do anything they don't 4pm to 5pm. p a ll Fion on 07799 691328 for e C erienc w,nttodo "Yo un g stersex dance, drama and singing in a sup- details. BET STAR T HAT YOU ARE y

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swindonlink.com • July 2009 19

Moredon nursery open days and free registration

Nutkinz

A new nursery is holding open days on Wednesdays 1 and 8 July with free registration if places are booked on the day. Headstarts Nursery is opening "the aim of Headstarts since we term time from September, with the the nursery at Moredon Children's opened the fi rst nursery in 1990 opportunity to extend the sessions Centre in Montrose Close, adding has always been to offer childcare into wrap around childcare from to the three already operating in the that is of the highest quality yet af- 8am to 6pm. This can continue town at Delta Office ParkinWestlea, fordable in a child-centred homely through the holidays, at very competitive rates. the Children's Centre at Robert le atmosphere." Everyone is welcome at the July Headstarts Day Nurseries are Kyng School in Westcott Street and open from 8am to 6pm, Monday open days. For details call area at Eldene Children's Centre. Nursery owner Sara Vare said, to Friday, all year (except Bank manager Alison Barre tt on 481080 Holidays), and offer flex- or mail: alison — headstarts@hotible childcare for 0 to 5 mail.co.uk year olds. They are Ofsted • In September, there will be places registered with all staff available in all age groups at all CRB checked and fully the Headstarts nurseries, but early quali fi ed or in training. booking is recommended. Headstarts will also be offering 15 hours of flexible funded sessions for learning * 3 and 4 year olds during Area manager Alison Barrett, left, with nursery mmr ager Shau na Titcombe, right, and under 3s coordinator Tiffcutl Hort000d

Dads and kids get together A taster stay and play session for dads and male carers takes place on Thursday 16 July at Salt Way Children's Centre, Middleleaze. "A father's role is so important and we want to make sure they are involved," said family link worker Sarah Stace. "This is a chance to let us know what kind of ac ti vities men would like to see taking place."

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Taking a break from childcare Staff at Busy Bee Nursery, Peatmoor donned their overalls, combats and cagoules to clean twenty cars on 6 June to raise £120 for Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Jane Rose gets a wash down from nursery staff, watched by the Gilbert family

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®Little Faces Nurser Schnul

Tel: 01666 510356

Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Prior Vale on B4042 • An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years • Open: Monday to Friday. 7.30am-6.30pm. 51 weeks of the year • Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds • High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses

• Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool. multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus. secure gardens. mini bus for trips out and about 1

Headstarts Da Nurser I y

ESTABLISHED 1990

Moredon Children's Centre, Montrose Close, Moredon www.headstartsnursery.co.uk y

y Headstarts is a friendl , `famil ' nurser offering a warm, happ and relaxed ,I y dlb^ environment where ever child benefits from individual attention.

Hawaiian Fun Day: Saturday 18 July, 12noon to 3pm Busy Bee Nursery, Peatmoor Village Centre

In aid of Cystic Fibrosis Trust

• Monday-Friday 8am till 6pm all year • Sessions for 0-5 year olds - am. pm. school day, all day • Real value for money. From £35.55 per day

•

• Funded child-care credits available.'*

• Government Funded Nursery Sessions"" Free 15 hours a week flexible funding during term time for 3 & 4 year olds*

For further information call 01793 481080 y

OPEN DAYS Wednesda 1st Jul , 9am to 4pm y 8th Jul y, 11 am to 6Pm

with FREE REGISTRATION Wednesda L

Condttions apply — — — — — — — — — — — — -*Rates may vary)

I I

20 swindonlink.com • July 200 9

Has this year's Apprentice inspired you? Swindon Women's Business Breakfast Club is looking for applications to its annual Make It Happen Award. If you have the potential to forge ahead, live or work in the Swindon area, need an additional qualification or want to return after a career break, the Make it Happen Award could be the answer. On offer is cash support of up to £500 to achieve a professional or management qualification, professional career advice with a mentor and free club membership for one year. To apply, write under two sides of A4 on where you are now in your life (work and family), your background and education, where you want to be in 5 years and 10 years time, how you plan to achieve this and what difference the Make it Happen Award will make to you and your plans. Also if you have sought support from an employer, or other source, describe why this was insufficient. The closing date is 8 July. Send the above with your contact details to: Maureen Inwards (SBBC). c / o Intergraph (UK) Ltd, Delta Business Park, Great Western Way, Swindon SN5 7XP or mail: maureen.inwards@intergraph.com

Ali's fund achieves £4,000 as charity curry cashbacks top £20,000 Ali McCalluin, the 12 year old who was exclusively featured in the April Link for his fundraising for the Indian orphanage where he spent the first months of his life, has now raised £4,000 in less than four years. In April sixty supporters enjoyed a charity curry night at Peatmoor's Bom/ bay Lounge restaurant ► which raised £500, plus a further £180 from a quiz and raffle. Ali's efforts to help the Palna orphanage in New Delhi has attracted the attention of newspapers in India describing him as a 'fundraising Indian orphan hailed as hero in Britain.' The charity curry nights run in association with Swindon Link have now Ali receiving a cheque from Hanif Robbani at the Bombay Lounge raised over £20,000 since Bombay Lounge proprietor Hanif out the dates available at www. Robbani offered to hand over swindonlink.com and mail us. profits on Monday and Tuesday The curry nights are not exclusive eveningstogood causes. "I'm really to the named groups. Anybody can pleased how they've gone since we book a table and you will be making launched in February last year," a contribution. Coming up: said Hanif. "Members of groups 30 June - Swindon Wildcats Ice often say how great it is to go out Hockey Team together, and bring their family and 6 July - St Mary's Church, Lydiard friends along, and know that their social evening is making a contribu- Park restoration fund tion to group activities. 7 July - Purton Veterinary Group "We're seeing groups returning raising money for Guide Dogs for more evenings and becoming 14 July - Action for Blind People good friends. It's great to find out sports club for visually impaired 5 what their aims are and to help to 16 year olds them." The Link coordinates bookings 21 July - Koalas Special Opportunifor the curry nights. If you can ti es Playgroup organise at least 22 people from 27July-BasepointBusinessCentre your group, or can bring friends raising money for Swindon Therapy together to support a cause, check Centre for MS

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Win a 40th anniversary moonwalk DVD Wiltshire's pre-historic Stonehenge circle features in a NASA documentary made in 1969 to mark the Apollo 11 space mission which took humans to the moon forty years ago on 20 July. It's never been seen in public and backdrop of 1960's pop culture, with an evocative soundtrack which you can win a copy of Moonwalk One - The Director's Cut. captures the era and the mysteries Director Theo Kamecke said of going beyond the boundaries he was commissioned to explore /" of earth. the connections between earth; At The Link's request the disits moon and the Apollo 11 space tributors are sending copies to ^. mission."NASAaskedmetomakea Greendown, Bradon Forest, Nova ti me capsule' of an event that I saw ": • Hreod and Isambard schools to use as a landmark in human history. within the curriculum and in special tried to capture the mood and feel-projects. ingsonearthasweleftit,notjustthe Win a copy by sending a posttechnological achievement.I wanted card naming the Wiltshire site that - "to make it like a tale told beside a ,. ..,, " :. introduces Moonwalk One - The campfire of that time when we first -':_ Director's Cut to the address on walked on another world." page 4 by 15 July. The film puts man first walking on = " Afurtherfourcopieswith an extra the moon firmly in a social context, photographic prize are available to placing the frontier-challenging sciwin at www.swindonlink.com ence and technology against the • Moonwalk One - The Director's Cut is available from www.amazon.co.uk at £19.99 or from 0845 053 0323. The 2 disc DVD includes 16:9 widescreen version and original full frame 4:3 version with a new 5.1 surround sound mix, a full length Directors commentary. Bonus features including a 30 minute documentary 'Creating the time capsule - the making of Moon walk One, short features Return to Stonehenge and Return to Moonwalk One and a unique opportunity to flick through Theo Kamecke's original treatment and art work for the film and his behind the scenes production stills taken at the time. The world premiere screening takes place on 19 July at the British Film Institute.

Win tickets to the annual open-air theatre in the park Pack up a picnic and bring the family for another great treat at Lydiard Park in August. On Friday 7 August, 6.30pm. the park becomes the wild wood in a new adaptation of The Wind in the Willows by Heartbreak Productions. Go on a lively adventure with Ratty, Mole. Badger and the irrepressible Toad with live music. song, dance and inventive props. On Wednesday 12 and Thursday 1 3 August, 7.30pm, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Company returns to Lydiard Park with a fast paced and very funny interpretation of The Comedy of Errors with a cast of eight bringing the bard's tale of twins, mistaken identities and comic misadven-

tures to life on a small Elizabethan style stage on the lawn in front of Lydiard House. Call the box office on 614837 for tickets or visit the Swindon Information Centre. Lydiard House or Swindon Arts Centre. We have a family ticket (4 people) for each production.To win one, tell us the name of the character pictured here. Send your answer, contact details and whether you want a ticket for Wind in the Willows or Comedy of Errors by 15 July to the address on

page 4.

Tel/Fax 01793 513069 Email: mail@facswindon.co.uk

www.facswindon.co.uk

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BLAYLOCKS SWINDON'S FAMILY SHOE SHOP Est. 1920 Red or gold leather, beige Nubuck

£40

Red or black Bather

£40

Tel: 534271 Bath Road Corner, Old Town

Wyvern Theatre •

A, HQ Th-t,,

Elkie Brooks Live in Swindon

Thu 23 July 18pm Tickets £21.00 Ticket Office: 01793 524481 www.wyverntheatre.org.uk

Swindon wide

the bigger picture Are you infected by the gloom that seems to surround everything and scared at the portents of doom that prevail? Not to worry, Dr Schm000's Urban Circus is Swindon's answer to bad news, the selfproclaimed ambassadors of fun. a collective of mirth and community participation. Dr Schm000 offers an all-in-one inclusive gateway into the worlds of skateboarding, circus skills, graffiti. music, DJ-ing and Schm000... The 15 to 30 participants bring festival spirit to any occasion with the aim of getting everybody learning how to juggle, develop their legal spray can art techniques, improve their skateboarding style and appreciating the finer music skills with drumming workshops and DJ spinning.

Activities end with a grand performance to enthrall and capture the spirit of Schm000. Dr Schm000's followers are now taking bookings for their special brand of thrills, spills and urban party skills in the Autumn and for next year.

Peasants' revolt planned at Nova

A web site is being schmooed together right now. But if you're planning an event in the next year and want to make it both unusual and extra special with Dr Schm000's ingredients for success, mail your enquiry to: jakethejuggler@gmail. corn

Pupils at Nova are preparing for a stage rebellion in July by looking at the big themes in life. The end of year production A Small Rebellion is an original musical comedy with a strong historical story running through it. Set in both the past and present, it links the experiences of a group of modern-day office workers with the famous 14th Century peasants' revolt. The show has been specially written by one of Nova's assistant headteachers Paul Rowe who teaches music at the school. Drama teacher Katie Snape is the director and will be seeking great performances from Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 pupils. Paul Rowe said the aim of A Small Rebellion is to entertain and at the same time to touch on a number of relevant issues for young people such as decision-making, friendship, responsibility and change. A professional live band will be accompanying the singers. A Small Rebellion takes place on Tuesday 7th, Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th July, 7pm, in the Nova Hreod theatre. Tickets at ÂŁ3 are available from the school office.

Swindon Wide Win an organic meal worth £20 at

en rownin 's Ko aI Oak

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speataau.Lar evewts... £ow.ethi,wg for evert owe!

There are so few 'unique' pubs nowadays: many claim to be, few are. One that does hit the spot is The Royal Oak at Bishopstone which was bought by organic farmer Helen Browning - and you can win the chance to try it out. It's in the middle of this idyllic village and good access to lovely walking six miles east of Swindon, and efand cycling country. fectivelythe centre of Helen's farm. Where better to while away an She is best known for her organic evening, or stop-by for refreshment black and white pigs which run all whilst out walking? over the Wiltshire Downs, and end Win a voucher worth £20 up as bacon and sausages on the to be used at anytime. including shelves of Tesco. Sainsbury and their new Sunday summer barbeBudgen, nationwide. Just look cues where you can choose from for her name and the big orange tasty organic pork sausages and pig icon. salads to extraordinary steaks The pub is the only one in the costing from £10 to £22.50 per Swindon district which is rated head. To win one of two vouchers, by Michelin in their 2009 Best UK send your contact details to the food pubs guide; it now features address on page 4 with the answer in the new Alastair Sawday Pub to the question: in which major and Inns of UK 2009, again in the supermarkets can Helen Browntop 500; and on top of the food, ing's organic bacon and speedy there are great, clean Arkells' ales, sausages be found? plus a short organic wine list. The There are another two vouchers on menu changes twice each day. offer at www.swindonlink.com com and is completely local, seasonal, organic and even foraged. What's If you can't wait to see if you've won, more, the Royal Oak has a great make a trip to the Royal Oak now. garden. easy parking, friendly staff www.royaloakbishopstone.co.uk

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Escape from summer holiday boredom The Great Escape at Greendown Community School provides an opportunity for youngsters to experience a variety of sports activities. Children aged 9 to 13 years can 3 to 7 August. The cost is £55 per take part in football. netball, hockey. week and youngsters can attend ulti mate frisbee, lacrosse, handball. both weeks. dodgeball, badminton, volleyball. The course is open to pupils in gymnastics. rounders, cricket. Year 5 to Year 8 who attend any dance. Danish long ball. tug of war school. Applications from children and tag rugby. Crazy catch is a new in Year 4 will be considered and addition to the programme this year should be discussed with Christian and involves games based around Dobbs at Greendown. a springy net. Bookingformscan be downloadThe Great Escape runs from edfromwww.greendown.swindon. 9.30am to 3pm, 27 to 31 July and sch.uk or call 874224.

Stud leY Grange DOLLS HOUSE WORKSHOP

Discounted dolls house decor Home improvements are cheaperthan everatThe Dolls House Workshop at Studley Grange Craft Village. Free conservatories and half price basements are among offers at the shop which stocks over forty different dolls houses. Customers can order in store and goods will be delivered the next day to Studley Grange, at the same prices displayed on the Dolls House Emporium web site.There are further savings for members of the workshop's loyalty scheme which rewards customers with £10 to spend in store for every £100 spent. Learn how to customise furniture and create finishing touches at supervised workshops on Wednesdays and Fridays. For times and details call into the craft village or call 852400. www.studleygrange.co.uk

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Swindon Mela: Saturday 25 July, 12noon - 7pm Town Gardens, Old Town. Free/donation A glorious heady mix of Bollywood & Bhangra, traditional & modern, international acts, big names and amazing local talent. Music and dance on three stages, performances, street theatre, storytelling, workshops, craft activities and delicious Asian cuisine that just makes you want more. Very limited parking available.

www.swindonmela.com

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Also stockists of • Bodo Hennig Miniatures • Carl Schmieder houses and furniture • Dolls House Emporium houses & furniture • Dolls House Mall quality miniatures • Dolls House Parade miniature flowers • Glenowen houses • Heidi Ott quality miniatures • Li tt le Trimmings haberdashery • Sid Cooke houses • Streets Ahead houses and furniture

Unit 5, Studley Grange Craft Village, Hay Lane Nr Wroughton, Swindon, Wilts '/2 mile from M4 junction 16 - Follow the brown tourist signs unnnnn/ ctrlrlInvnrnnnn rn 114 TI - f11 7Q2 R r,7An l

Swindon Wide Whctt'S Music Saturday 4th, doors 6pm, on stage from 8pm Grupo Lokito Bowl Concert. Latin Salsa meets Congolese Rumba in an exuberant explosion of sound. The flaming partnership between the UK Salsa piano queen Sara McGuinness and Congolese singer Jose Hendrix Ndelo ignites the creativity of wizard musicians. Ticket details - see Saturday 25th, right, Old Town Bowl

Sunday 5th, 11am to 5pm

Thursday 23rd,8pm Elkie Brooks performs some of her classic hits, blues, jazz and a song or two from her forthcoming album. £21. Wyvern

Saturday 25th, doors 7.15pm Sukshinder Shinda Bowl Concert. Winner of two UK Asian Music Awards in 2008 for 'Best Live Act' and `Best Album' for `Living the Dream' ends the Swindon Mela on a high note. Advance tickets from Arts Centre or Swindon Information Centre. In advance: adults £12, family £30, children £5: on the door: adults £14, family £32, children £5. Old Town Bowl. www.

swindonmela.com Friday 31st, 8pm Beyond the Dream. Join Rob McVeigh, a finalist on BBC's Any Dream Will Do on a musical theatre journey with stunning scenes from Joseph and his Amazing Thechnicolour Dreamcoat, Follies and more.

Also featuring breathtaking illusions from Magicality. £17. Wyvern Avolution at North Swindon in 2008

Celebration of Arts and Battle of the Bands. Dance groups, stalls, singing, rapping and the Battle of the Bands from 2pm. North Swindon District Centre plaza

Tuesday 7th, 7.30pm 8th Annual International Choral Concert. The Wessex Male Choir hosts the American James Madison University Chorale. The programme will include a selection from Oliver! 'All By Myself' and an upbeat barbershop item 'Down by the Riverside.' Tickets £9 adults, £8 seniors. £4 children under 16 from Swindon Information Centre or call 772384. Holy Rood Church

Wednesday 8th, 2.30pm RememberWhen. Musical memories from the 40s. 50s and 60s from Neil Sands and his cast of West End performers. £10. Wyvern Sunday 12th, 7.30pm Summer Gala Concert: Moving On, presented by Janice Thompson Performance Trust. A vocal feast of classical musical theatre and popular music, the 2009 gala highlights singers who are moving on from the Trust to national colleges. £10. Wyvern Wednesday 15th, 7.30pm The Barber of Seville, performed by the Royal Opera House. Register for

Get involved with arts in Swindon. Register and create your profile, upload events and info and support Swindon Does Arts.

www.swindondoesarts.co.uk ijp

free tickets at www. bigscreenswindon. co.uk. The Big Screen, Wharf Green, Swindon

Sunday 19th, 12.30pm to 3.30pm Jazz on the Lawn with Frank Abrams and his All Star Band playing a whole range of popular jazz classics and much more. Bring a picnic Tickets from Lighthouse Bookshop: adults £8. children £4. Southerndown, Shrivenham Road, High worth, parking in the adjacent field. Profits to local charities. For details call 762599

Dance Wednesday 8th &Thursday 9th, 7.30pm Let's Dance! A shapshot from the community dance programme street, ballet, tap, contemporary plus performance by Salto! £9, £6. Swindon Dance

Friday 10th, 7.30pm Shine on Swindon. A platform of boys dance, which is the culmination of projects that have been taking place in Swindon secondary schools over the last six month. An un-missable night of energetic creativity and artistic collaboration. Limited tickets available, £6, £4. Swindon Dance

Venues Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Framework Art & Craft, Unit 35, BSS House, Cheney Manor. Tel: 513069 Lydiard House, Lydiard Park Tel: 770401 Roves Farm Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth. Tel: 763939 STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway. Kemble Drive. Tel: 466646 Swindon Dance Regent Circus. Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Sh utS

WELCOME TO BRADON FOREST SCHOOL

Bradon Forest

Bradon Forest is a successful school with a first-rate reputation that has served its community area of North Wiltshire, North and West Swindon for nearly 5 0 years. We are situated in Purton, surrounded by beautiful open countryside. In addition to our excellent examination results we are a very busy school offering a myriad of opportunities, both academic and extra-curricular. A visit to our website will provide you with easy access to information, photographs, videos and more via the eight easy to use buttons on our website homepage. See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk .

in Pictures

Mr Lemin demonstrating forces in The Wow Show

On The Buses' - Launch of the new Bradon Forest Bus Service

For over 4 0 years, buses have been provided across the community area that Bradon Forest serves. When Swindon Borough Council (SBC) was created as a separate authority it meant that our traditional community area encompassed two local authorities. The majority of our students (virtually 70%) have always come from Swindon. As you are probably aware from the comprehensive coverage in `The Link' magazine, SBC took the decision in 2008 to remove the free bus entitlement for all new entrants starting on or after September 2009. (NB. i. The bus service for students already on

Students during a writing workshop with author Sarah Singleton

roll will continue for them until they leave. ii. This does not affect the free service for Wiltshire based students.) SBC stressed that their decision was not about admissions but based on

cost. We are pleased that more Swindon based families chose Bradon Forest for the September intake in 2009 than the previous year. As it is SBC policy not to `sell seats' on any of its school contracts we promised parents that we would organise our own bus service at as low a cost as possible. After several months of detailed planning, working with Thamesdown Transport and the Wiltshire transport team, we are delighted to announce that in September we will be running a Bradon Forest bus service for students in West and North Swindon at a weekly cost of £12.50 per seat. (See Routes 1- 3)

Peter Newton and Chris Jones give a presentation on their gymnastics trip to China

Route 1 Swindon Bus Station Outlet Village

Ramleaze

Bradon Forest

Common Platt

Nine El m Elms

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Lydiard Millicent

Peatmoor

(continued on page 2)

`In The Ring' Circus performers for the Big Top Festival

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THE BRADON FOREST CIRCO RIDICULOSO jN THE RING THEATRE CO. TWENTY20 CRICKET

SWINDON YOUNG ACTORS SHOUT OUT PRODUCTIONS

www.bigtopfestivai.co.uk

CONCERT ON THE WILION

SWINDON DANCE

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A Bradon Forest Theatre Arts Festival

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Senior Choir performing in the Spring Music Concert

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See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

July 2009 (continued from page i)

Bradon Forest Parents' Newsletters Our Parents' Newsletters are published ii times a year. Each issue is packed with informative articles on all aspects of school life. We are justly proud of our students' achievements - academic, cultural and sporting - and it is i mportant to share and celebrate their success. Our newsletters can be accessed via a dedicated button on the homepage of our website. (The last four years are available to browse.) It is a real pleasure to compile the newsletter each month and all of the successes reported are due to first-class team work and an emphasis on ensuring students and staff set their sights high in all aspects of school life. u

F^y s

Louis Maddison, Josh Hadland and Jordan Bailey, winners of the 'Dragon's Den' style Creative Clothing competition.

Route 2 Rodbourne

Bradon Forest

Sparcells

Oakhurst

St. Andrew's Ridge

Wood Hall

Peatmoor

Taw 1-Jill

Redhouse

Abbey Meads

Cheney

Route 3 Kingshill

Freshbrook 'Foothill

Middleleaze

The Prinnels Shaw

Grange Park

Bradon Forest

We have a limited number of places available for enrollment in some year groups including our 2009 Year 7. If you are interested in applying for a place particularly now that we have our own buses serving the North and West Swindon area, please contact our Admissions Clerk % the school office for further details - 0 1 793 770570.

Curriculum and Examinations It is increasingly important for parents to look at an individual school's curriculum offer and examination results in some detail. At Bradon Forest we do not manipulate our curriculum offer, or choose `easy subjects' to boost our league table position. We believe that all students should study a broad, balanced entitlement curriculum which caters for individual aptitude and interest. All students at Bradon Forest take examination courses in English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Science(s), Business/ICT, Foreign Language(s), Humanities, Arts and Technology as well as chosen subjects from a comprehensive options package. We are committed to providing the education that young people require and deserve to make the most of the ever changing future opportunities the 21st century offers. Our website provides extensive information on our Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 curriculum together with comprehensive details on our examination results over the last five years. This information covers all individual subject results as well as local, regional and national comparisons 2004 - 2008. See the School Achievements button at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk .

5+ Higher Grade GCSE Passes (A* - C)

2004

2005

20o6

2007

2008

64%

70%

71%

66%

64%

5 2%

57%

56%

58%

5+ Higher Grade GCSE Passes (A* - C inc. English/Maths) * (A* - C inc. English Lit./Maths)

47%

*54%

Average Points Score per student

393

Higher Grade Passes GCSE English (A y - C) These, and other subjects, GCSE English Literature i are taken by all Year us. GCSE Maths

67%

410

412

413

400

70%

73%

56%

69%

64%

79%

58% 63%

69%

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1 60% 1 63% j 66%

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

61%

July 2009

Specialist School To get a feel for the arts at Bradon Forest , you need to visit our Theatre pages via the 0 =i dedicated button on the front page of our website: www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk. These pages have been used as an example ; , 1 ' of good practice for schools nationally and "^ ' you will see why. Here you will find a / ^^fl' comprehensive list of events and gallery ,J ill i. Ring Clowns pages that illustrate the depth and range of `1Â° The the work produced at Bradon Forest. This year we have had ten music concerts, three artists' workshops, nine professional theatre company productions and twelve Bradon Forest shows. To celebrate our continuation of specialist status we are hosting our annual summer arts festival... in a Big Top Tent! The four day event will see tA'

ative Fairytales'

ICT and Learning

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Over the last few years we have continued to expand and

upgrade

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network to ensure

learning platform

Bradon Forest continues to be at the forefront of the role ICT can play in terms of teaching and learning for both students and staff. Every teaching room in Bradon Forest has its own interactive whiteboard. Our ratio of students to computers is now 3:1 this ensures that ICT can be used when appropriate across the curriculum. We are a national lead school in ICT achieving excellent examination results and national awards including an ICT Mark, NAACE mark, Becta finalist in 2008 and we are a designated ICT Suppo rt School by SSAT.

over l000 participants 1

performing a wide variety of shows, including 9TH ' 2 H ALT 20" live music, new drama, musicals, dance, art exhibitions, circus acts and much more! We also have the pleasure of presenting shows by local primary schools, professional companies and many more local cultural organisations during this exciting festival of arts. See l ; Y^ www.bigtopfestival.co.uk for more WK information.

Our Specialism around the School Having specialist arts status means that not only can we continue the exemplary work throughout the arts faculty, but we can also support events and projects in other subjects. For example, we have, for the second year running, assisted the Science Department with their Wow Show, which was designed to help Year 7 _ students consider the many `Why?' and `How?' questions about everyday activities. The theatre has Onati French Play also welcomed back Onati, a French and German theatre company, who have once again performed their multi-lingual shows to Bradon Forest language students. In addition we have hosted the second annual L ` `Wake and Shake' festival for the PE r department, involving local primary ' ry ^ k. schools. Year 7 WOW Show

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Our extensive Out Ay. of Hours provision has continued to -';â€˘ flourish and a range of clubs and societies are 1 estiles Group offered. On our website the `Out of Hours' button will take you to links for the range of activities. Also, throughout the year, we offer a variety of subject specific GCSE clinics and subject enrichment activities, as well as an annua skills seminar for Year .`' ii students. Our Out of Hours 1 e P lastic Fiction rock band provision has been very successful and, in 2006, was recognised nationally under the Quality in Study Support (QiSS) Framework. Our provision of free bus tickets for students involved in any Out of Hours/extra-curricular activities to go home using service buses was praised as an example of excellent practice in our QiSS assessment. ..........................................................................................................

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

July 2009

Bradon Forest School

Sports and PE As part of the `School Sports Pa rt nership' we promote and develop student pa rt icipation in sport and exercise both in and outside school. Students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular sporting activities and our teams compete in numerous inter-form and inter-school sporting tournaments at local, county, regional and national level with great success. Many students enjoy may,,: the different sports we offer and attend after-school sports 1 clubs which have included: rugby and

football - for boys and girls, table tennis, athletics and cricket. Sports Day Details of the many and varied successes of our teams can be found via the `Welcome to Bradon Forest' button on our website, www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk . Recent successes included Swindon Netball Champions, Years 7, 8 and 9 teams; Swindon Hockey Champions, Years 7 and 8; Wiltshire Football Champions, Years 7 and 11; National Basketball Champions, Year 8 (2009); Swindon Basketball Champions, Years 8, 9 and ii, and Inter form Cross Country

there are more!

Exemplary Work with our Partner Primary Schools Further development of our work with our Partner Primary Schools has been a major focus over the last few years. The work has been very positively received b '^n^ colleagues and an i mpressive range of curricular projects has been developed. We have recently distributed our fourth issue of Bradon Forest Primary Liaison News which is published three times a year. The copies are also available to view on e.. the website. They illustrate the ` i mpressive range of projects undertaken and the degree to which Bradon Forest invests in partnership working with our primary colleagues. Our curricular links have included English, Maths, Science, French, German, ICT, Drama, Music, Art, Design & Technology, Humanities and PE. We run an action packed three Issue 4 published April day induction programme for Year L009 6s transferring to Bradon Forest. This is an important part of the range of support we provide to ensure a smooth and positive transition from primary to secondary school which is a major strength at Bradon Forest.

Open Mornings: Monday 7- Wednesday i6 September 2009 Bradon Forest School would like to invite prospective parents of current Year 4 and 5 pupils (who will move to Years 5 and 6 respectively in September) to visit our school during one of our Open Mornings. There will be an opportunity to tour the school with senior students, visit lessons, meet teachers, senior staff and the Headteacher. The weekday morning visits will start at 9.05 am and last approximately one and a half hours. To book your place please telephone the school office on 01 793 770570.

Open Evening: Thursday 17 September 2009 Our Open Evening will run from 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm with two main presentations at 5.00 pm and 6.30 pm. Visitors will be able to visit all subjects areas and meet with staff and students. Parents and Year 5 and 6 pupils are invited to attend. No booking is necessary.

See more of what we get up to at www.bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk

On in 1ul4 Exhibitions

Comedy

Until Saturday 11th William Dew. It's Coming! These paintings represent a personal apocalypse, the result of modern living. Painted as through a child's innocent gaze symbolized by a toy, harmless.

Friday 24th, 8pm Jongleurs. Swindon's premier comedy club featuring the best of the country's rising talent. £12. Wyvern

Theatre

Arts Centre

Until Saturday 18th, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm, Saturdays 9am to 5pm Exhibition by local artists: James Denny and Tracey Stebbing. Framework Art& Craft

Until 5 September Necessary Pots: Studio Pottery in the South West. Ceramics by artists with strong links with the west country, such as David Leach, Hans Coper, Katharine Pleydell-Bouverie and Michael Cardew. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Until Sunday 1 November Hands-on, Hard Work! Rare plans, documents and photographs to tell the story of Lydiard House's staff, servants and estate workers - see photo above. Normal admission applies. Lydiard House

From Saturday 4th Presentation of Self. Portraits which conceal and reveal the nature of artists and their subjects, including works by Lucian Freud, Gilbert and George and Steven Pippin. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

From Tuesday 14th Views of Rome - Drawings by Tim Carroll. Meet the artist Monday 13

July, 7pm to 9pm. Arts Centre

Cabaret Saturday 18th, 7.30pm Big Hat Cabaret. Music, dance, film and stand-up comedy presented by dynamic performers, some with disabilities. Big Hat is a cooperative including Swindon Dance, Upham Road Day Centre, Reach Inclusive Arts, Commonweal School and Crowdys Hill School. £5. Arts Centre We Love Lydiard Park! Monday 27 July, 12noon - 3pm Have fun with a tree natural play trail through the woodlands, lakes and lawns. Organised by Swindon Play Service & Great Western Community Forest Part of Love Parks Week

Wednesday 1st to Sat 4th, 7.30pm House Guest presented by The Western Players. A film star couple's son is kidnapped; a stranger arrives and insists on staying; a man's body is discovered in the stars' country cottage - the kidnapper? A highly exciting thriller. £6. To book call 433297. Arts Centre

Saturday 11th, 7.30pm Starlight Theatre Academy. An evening of music, dance and drama presented by local performers aged 7 to 17. For tickets call 320283. Arts Centre

Wednesday 29th, 7.30pm (women's night only) also Thursday 30th, Friday 31st July & Saturday 1st August, 7.30pm The Full Monty presented byTheatre Ink. Unemployed steelworkers come up with a bold way to make some quick cash. In the process they find renewed self-esteem, the importance of friendship and the ability to have fun by showing off their bits. In aid of Breast Cancer Research on Wednesday night. £10. Arts Centre

Comedy Festival Saturday 28 June. 2.30pm James Campbell Comedy 4 Kids. Top quality comedy for children over 6. £7.50. Wyvern Monday 29 June, 7.30pm Topping and Butch present a raw and risque night of outrageous musical satire, stupid costumes and stand-up material. £12. Wyvern Thursday 2 July, 7.30pm Pluck! Musical Arson. Three hilarious musicians who compete, ridicule. argue and seduce their way through Bach to the Beatles. £ 12. Wyvern

Friday 3 July, 7.30pm Comedy Curry. W ith two cracking comedians and three delicious courses, this will be the spicest night out. £24. Circle Restaurant, Wyvern

Friday 3 July, 7.30pm The Bad Film Club. Nicko, Joe and Rob Deering once again use their sharply honed wit and laser pointers to take you on a journey through bad plot lines and terrible dialogue. £10. Wyvern

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Saturday 4th, 1.30pm Summer Tree Walk. Join a guided walk looking at the magnificent trees in the parkland. Lydiard Park Saturday 4th, 7.30pm and Sunday 5th, 3pm & 7.30pm Stars and Stripes presented by Tanwood School for Performing Arts. An entertaining journey through America with an extravaganza of song and dance from a cast of over 250 pupils. From £9. Wyvern

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Monday 6th, 7pm Swindon Schools' Drama Festival. Enjoy new drama produced by local secondary schools. £5. Wyvern Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th The BigTop Festival. Annual fourday arts festival. Concerts, drama, musicals. dance, art exhibitions, circus acts and aTwenty20 cricket match. Bradon

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Thursday 23 July to Sunday 30 August Hands-on, Hard Work - Have a go! Fun, guided trail for children and families with objects to handle, costumes to try on and puzzles to solve - get a taste of life below stairs'. Hands on demonstration every Friday afternoon. Normal admission applies. Lydiard House

Saturday 25th to Friday 31st Bug Week. Stop and look for creepy crawlies on the tractor and trailer rides and make your own bugs at the craft table. Roves Farm. See page 14 Wednesday 29th, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm Finds Day - Festival of British Archaeology. If you have any intriguing objects you would like to know more about, bring them to show Katie Hinds from the Portable Antiquities Scheme. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2 August The Adrian Flux Wroughton Classic Carand Bike Show. Family attractions will be a key part of the weekend.Take advantage of the `Early Bird' offer: pre-book family tickets at discount prices using the special offer code `CLASSICO3' in the advance booking section at www.wroughtonclassic. co.uk/09booking . Science Museum Wroughton

Central Fire Station 50th Anniversary Open Day Saturday 4 July, 10.30am - 4pm Fire engines from yesteryear to the newest appliances Drills at half past every hour. Bouncy castle. paintball range, Community safety stand Access via the Fleming Way gate by the traffic lights. No parking available

Fundraising Friday 3 July, 5.30pm to 8pm Brook Field Summer Fayre Free entry, lots of games. fun, raffle and attractions, bouncy castle Brookfield School. Shaw

Sunday 5 July, 12noon to 3pm Jellytots Playgroup Fun Day Face painting, bouncy castle, many stalls - jewellery, cakes, tattoo, tombola, refreshments Brook Field School, Shaw

Friday 10 July, 4pm to 7pm Friends of Moredon Primary Summer Fun Fair Beach Theme - Steel Pan Drummers, cocktail bar, quad bikes, surfing simulator, Punch'n'Judy Friday 10 July, 6pm to 9pm Catherine Wayte School Summer Fete Stalls, activities, bouncy castle, face painting, bar and barbecue Proceeds to PTA Elstree Way, Abbey Meads

Saturday 11 July, 12noon to 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice from many beauticians and alternative therapists Gorse Hill Community Centre Chapel Street. Entry £2 In aid of Help for Heroes For more details call 340271

Saturday 11 July, 12noon to 4pm Friends of St Andrews School Summer Fete Bouncy castles, grand prize raffle, music, stalls, circus games, pony rides, go-karting and much more Blunsdon Recreation Ground

Saturday 11 July, 2pm to 5pm All Saints Church Garden Party Lydiard Millicent BBC, cream teas, stalls, games, trips up the bell tower, 'Lydiard has Talent' show, art competition Proceeds to Maggie's Cottage and Swindon Food Bank Manor House gardens (behind the church)

Saturday 1 August, 1 pm to 5pm Toothill JuniorYouth Club and Scouts Fete 5 a-side under 11s football tournament, bouncy castle, cream teas, barbecue, fire engine Toothill Farm

Swindon Wide Potter mania arrives at The Brunel The Brunel is set for a wizard day on Saturday 11 July as the shopping centre anticipates the release of the new Harry Potter movie. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Hermione and Ron to be chosen by Mark Martin, deputy manager Prince is released on July 15. but of The Brunel. on the previous Saturday shopOn offer are two tickets to the pers can enjoy themed events, Empire Cinema, £10 in cash plus a and children can enter a special special celebration edition of Harry competition to win great prizes, Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Attractions include wizard workpresented by Waterstones. Three shops where a professional magirunners-up will receive £5. cian will teach children tricks of the Bird fanciers will have a close trade. There is no need to book encounter with a European eagle — just turn up at 1 pm, 1.30pm, owl between 1 pm and 4pm — also 2pm, 2.30pm or 3pm, on the upper on the upper floor of The Brunel floor of The Brunel Arcade (near House of Fraser). Children must Arcade. "It's going to be a really fun day," be accompanied by adults. said Mark Martin. "We're hoping to At3.30pm, children can take part see some superwizards of all ages in a lookalike competition — with joining in" special prizes for the best Harry,

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Matching personalities is key to finding your perfect mate Answering four simple questions could be all it takes to find your perfect partner. After three years' research, he Alan Hayward from West Swindevised his simplified profile system don has launched a new dating which describes people as one of website which promises to save sixteen personality types. ti me and heartache by matching " Most other websites offer people people's personality types. Regiswho join a choice of thousands. It's tration can be completed in lessthan not a very good way to find the ten minutes and, after answering best person. Personality profiling four questions, a profile of the user only throws up people who are and of their perfect partner will be very good matches. Other sites generated. Only details of people have hundreds of questions and who are a perfect personality match you get bored half way through. will be shown. This is quick and simple. We want Since he used personality profilto offer a quality personal service. ing to recruit staff for his IT business, It's just the two of us running the Alan has been fascinated by the business:' topic and wanted to understand Registering is risk free and there more about what makes relationis no monthly subscription. Memships work. He met his perfect berspayaoneofffeeof£9.99forthe partner. Joy, by chance; she is his details of each person they would best friend's sister. "Joy and I are in li ke to contact. Find the person a very good personal relationship, you're looking for at: said Alan. "I've been interested in www.yourperfectpartner.co.uk what makes that work."

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Computing museum reopens in early July

Reading will be a holiday adventure

The UK's first dedicated Museum of Computing has found a new, larger home in Theatre Square, close to the Central Library and the Wyvern Theatre and will reopen to the public in July.

Swindon Libraries are sending young people on a quest to keep them reading throughout the summer holidays with the Summer Reading Challenger"

Getting the rnuse iii rend] to reopen, from left, Lai ion Evans, Jerenn Holt, Simon Webb, Dianne Reuhy

The collection of 2,500 items demonstrating Britain's role in the development of computing has attracted worldwide interest, In the less accessible premises at Oakfield the museum had 2,000 visitors a year from more than forty countries. The town centre location should attract much higher numbers. Museum curator Simon Webb said, "our gaming exhibitions have been our most popular and we'll be able to give the public what

they want - entertainment and a trip down memory lane. Some

80 per cent of the collection is in working order and gaming can be traced back thirty years. We'll be setting up championship league

tables and are investigating the possibility of online competitions with other towns.' The computer museum is sponsored by Swindon based Intel and Blue Click PR. Now that the museum will be in a more public place, volunteers are needed to assist in a number of roles. For details call Simon Webb on 07834 375628. www.museum-of-computing.org . uk

It's simple - visit a library, pick up a special incentive pack, read six books over the summer, and those that successfully complete the task will receive a certificate and medal. Quest Seekers has a range of free adventurous activities and incentives to keep children on their quest path. In August they can put their arty side to the test with some fantasy craft sessions at a library. Librarians and volunteers will be on hand to act as guides. and an

interactive Quest Seekers website li nks children with top authors and ill ustrators whilst giving them space to talk about their favourite books and share reading ideas. The fun starts on Saturday 18 July, 10.30am to 2pm with a launch event at Lydiard Park. Enjoy a treasure hunt, fantasy craft activities, storytelling and a few surprises. Register in a local library at any ti me during the holiday from Saturday 11 July. The quest ends on Saturday 5 September.

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Swindon Wide Another phenomenal festival

The church in the park is crumbling

This year's Swindon Festival of Literature surpassed all expectations, writes festival director Matt Holland. Not only did it not rain at the Dawn Chorus, but the sun shone, as it did, figuratively-speaking, throughout the rest of the festival fortnight. Golden Cavalier ff Highlights were many but par- the Town Hall, with poets, jugglers, calls for help: Between the 4th and 16th of May, more than 5,000 people took part ticularly memorable, at least to this and dancers. Sold out and full to 'St Mary's Church ' in over 50 events in and around organiser. were a couple of days bursting, this was a fitting finale to next to Lydiard a fabulous fortnight. Swindon, a quarter of which were part way through the festival. House gives There's no question: Swindon's the park a special character, but When Irish novelist Josephine sold out. Most events took place indoors, at Hart, author of Damage, graced the got culture. it urgently needs restoration. Plans are already being made for Join me on Monday 6 July for the Arts Centre, Wyvern The- stage at the Arts Centre, she took atre, four libraries, three pubs. and our breath away. In a serious, elo- the nextfestival:3-15 May2010. For a charity curry at the Bombay outdoors under the sun and stars quent, and highly-informative talk further details, to suggest authors, Lounge Restaurant at Peatmoor on four books, writing, and life, she or to go on the mailing list, mail: to give the building a fighting at Lower Shaw Farm. swindonlitfest@lowershawfarm. chance. Call 887799 and book But this year, the co.uk festival also went to a table for yourself, family and Photos: Ben Cavanna newvenues.Thewonfriends. Don't leave it too late.' derful Great Western 4-16 Hall at the STEAM May 2009 Museum was chosen as the perfect venue for the appearance of national natural history treasure Sir David 13 Rodbourne Rd, Swindon Tel: 01793 490947 thinker Attenborough. New speakers events also took place noreii.t, poets at the National Trust's storytellers Heelis headquarters performances and the Prospect talks â€˘ readings workshops Hospice. discussions And at the heart of this year's festival, c . there was an exciting (with deposit paid) ongoing exhibition of photographs established her appearance as one by Ben Cavanna, which included of the festival's highspots. Here were Late night opening a selection of author pics from words charged with meaning that SIch'arzkopf on Thursdays previous years but also had blank went to the very heart of Literature frames to be filled with pictures from and its role in life. In the evening, this year. Every day, festival follow- poet Simon Armitage took us further ers would come into the Arts Centre down the same road, with delightful keen to discover what picture had diversions along the way. Next day, journalist Nick Davies filled the day's blank. And every new mixed it with the press and media picture told a story. The festival proper began with big and told how often the facts are bubbles, big poems. and big juggles not allowed to get in the way of a under the Big Screen as a warm up good story, and why. This was an for the BBC Radiol Big Weekend. unwritten code-breaking dog eat in Swindon; and in the evening, at dog session, but the people loved the Wyvern Theatre, Julian Clary it! As they did at a sell-out event warmed up people's extreme parts for the delightful Colin Dexter in the evening. His use of English, irony, in the way that only he can. ti ming, and wit made this man of Alistair McGowan. in conversation more than Morse another festival highlight. He was followed by festival virgin Jake Chapman, who was keen to do in fiction and writing what he has done in sculpture and art, make a meaningful disturbance. The penultimate day brought the ultimate big nameto town, Sir David Attenborough, forwhom tickets had sold out in one afternoon, graced the specially-constructed stage at STEAM's Great Western Hall. What For financial support, the Festival is grateful to Arts Council England, a night it was, with not only SwindoSouth West, Dominic WinterBookAuc- nians but fans from all over the UK tions, Swindon Borough Council, the and as far away as Edinburgh cheerAdult Community & Family Learning ing, clapping, and camera-flashing Project. the Biotechnology & Biologi- as if they were at a rock concert. cal Sciences Research Council. and Meanwhile, across town. also sold Holland Handling. For unstinting sup- out, psychologist Oliver James was port in many other ways, the Festival explaining why bad health can come thanks The Link, Swindon Advertiser, from too much wealth. Swindon Web, Acorn Press, plus many The curtain was brought down other local terrific organisations and on the final day of the festival at individuals.

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swindonlink.com • July 2009

Onwards and upwards as Les Slinn heads for Star West As demand for his personal training service continues to grow, Les Slinn is to treble his studio space.

1 lie Les Shun second team, led by Clare Sl inn, fron t centre, were [lie winners of the It's A Knockout competition at the Swindon Festival of Sport in L ldiard Park 01131 May

After only 15 months at his Basepoint studio, Les will make a move to new premises at Star West, just off Westmead Drive. The new studio is easy to reach from Mead Way and has plenty of fr ee parking. The extra space will allow fora wider choice of training approaches in addition to working one to one with a personal trainer, Les and personal trainers, Richard Phillips and Victoria Groves, will work with clients on a range of fitness equipment including running machines, rowers, cross trainers and boxing equipment.The new premises will have a separate spinning room with eight bikes and a studio for yoga, Pilates, aerobics and core classes. There will also be a private area where clients can use the revolutionary vibrogym which gives a whole body workout in

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London marathon totals Clare Slinn raised £2,337.22 for Headway with £700 going directly to the Swindon branch which helped her mother's recuperation after a car accident several years ago. Marion Morris from the Les Slinn All Stars running club raised £704.11 for The Alzheimer Society. Matt and Natalie Lawrence, right, from Ramleaze trained for and ran separately in the marathon with Matt crossing the line in 4 hours 21 minutes, to raise £1,800 for Meningitis UK. Natalie finished in 5 hours 18 minutes, raising £1,100 for Child Bereavement Charity which she sometimes has to call upon in her work as A&E nurse at the Great Western Hospital.

a faction of the usual time, using vibration to work muscles and burn off calories. Running training has proved particularly popular; three times a year Les holds beginners' classes. Many runners go on to take part in sponsored races such as Mad March Hare and Race for Life and can graduate to the Slinn Allstars running club which has a membership of around one hundred. "Deciding to expand in difficult ti mes economically is quite a challenge but there is a definite demand

for what we do and the larger premises will allow us to offer so much more," said Les. The new training studio will be opened on 4 July, 10am, by players fr om Swindon Town FC. See the advert left, for details of the day. www.Ispersonaltraining.com

swindonlink.com • July 2009

Confidence coaching kicks off football career Talented player Libby Turner, 15, from Grange Park has been selected to train at Chelsea after tackling her self confidence issues. The Greendown pupil has been offered a place at Chelsea's football academy in 2010, after she has completed her GCSE studies. Seeing her potential, the football club has also nominated her for a talented athlete sponsored scholarship. In May she was given a bursary from the Swindon Schools' Sport partnership towards the cost of equipment and travelling. Yet, despite her outstanding ability, Libby was finding that nerves were affecting her performance and asked personal coach Raziya Sacranie to help find out what was wrong. Raziya used NLP and hypnotherapy to boost her confidence. "I worked with Libby on her beliefs I had to do to get there." about herself and her ability," said After the successful trip to Raziya. "Everyone was telling her Chelsea, Libby and mum Deborah she's really good but she couldn't presented Raziya with a bouquetof see it." flowers. "I felt really pleased when Libby said she had been going the Chelsea coaches told me after through abad patch and lacked con- the trial that they wanted me to join fidence after an England regional them," said Libby. "It was fantastic trial lastAutumn. "Raziya made me to know the next step on my ladder. think about what I really wanted to After a sports' qualification through do in the future and challenged the the Chelsea football academy, I'd way I think about things now. By like to think about playing full talking and getting me to create a time or maybe trying for a football picture of my football dreams she scholarship in America." was able to help me to focus on what • See Raziya's advert above.

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The football team at Shaw Ridge Primary School, took a relaxed attitude to training this year and still won the annual West Swindon tournament at Greendown in May. Because their new school is being built next door, the school playing field has been covered in mobile classrooms and tarmac which prevented them playing games this year. Tregoze Primary won the netball tournament. Right, coach Kate Jeffery with her winning team. Below, PE coordinator Salena Saota with the Tregoze team who are coached by parent Donna Clements

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International gymnastics heading for Headlands Top Swindon gymnastics club Esprit has done a deal with Swindon Borough Council to turn Headlands School into an international quality gymnastics training academy to rival the best in the country. The top club, which boasts many international medal winners, including British Champion Laura Halford and senior British team member Jade Faulkner, has ambitious plans for the site, including a new competition hall to host Olympic gymnasts readying themselves for the 2012 games. The main building at Headlands is due to be demolished when the school relocates to the new Academy later this year, but the sports hall will be leased to Esprit for 25 years. The club plans to extend it

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to create training and competition space in all the major gymnastic disciplines including artistic, rhythmic, trampoline, DMT, sports acro and display to the standard expected by gymnasts from across the world, including those training for the London Olympics. There will also be rooms availableforhire to community groups and clubs. Under a separate agreement, the club will manage the sports Some of Esprit tymrnasts training for fields for junior footOlympic selection ball. "These are exciting times for Justin Tomlinson and Nick Martin gymnastics locally and for Swin- for seeing the potential of the Esprit don," said Esprit chairman Mark proposal to create a nationally recHows. "Since we started the club ognised training centre as well as a only a few years ago we have been much needed community facility. i mpressed by the ability of Swindon Mark said, "we would like to see youngsters. The new centre will the whole site used by the commuprovide the dedicated training ni ty. Whilst our focus is gymnastics, facility they need to improve their there will be many opportunities for other organisations to access rooms skills." He paid tribute to Swindon and the football pitches." www.esprit-gymnastics.co . uk Council officers and councillors

Newbie ball players in national finals The Bradon Forest Year 9 basketball team qualified to this year's national finals in May. The squad only started playing the game just over a year ago, but swept aside local, county and south west opposition to reach the last eight teams at the Nottingham tournament where they won their first round game. The girls, knowing that winning their next game would see them in the final, suffered a confidence crisis and at second half fightback saw them narrowly lose. However they dominated the playoff game to come third in the tournament. All ten girls have been invited for county training and five have already represented the South West of England The Bradon team: Natasha Chilambo, Angela Luchembo, Emily Dicks, Charlotte Bedry, Charlotte Legge, Billie-Jnr/e Dickinson, Rosic Hutchins, Hannah Pettit, Paige Lo/den, Jernrna Showier.

CURRENT LETS: • Football Teams • Indoor Cricket • Badminton • Netball • Martial Arts • Children/Adult Parties • Ballet/Dance Classes • Wellbeing/Health Sessions • Hockey • Ad-hoc bookings available 10+ weeks of Block Bookings are welcome with no VAT to pay* Community Groups/Organisations able to use spaces free of charge* On and Off Peak prices available on selected facilities Excellent external and internal spaces for private functions/events. Free parking• 'Terms and Conditions apply

Contact Amy Hutchinson (Third Party Let Manager) for details on 01793 707592 or 07884 117185 e- m ai l: amy.hutchinson@laing .com

swindonlink.com • July 2009

Team needs players to keep up winning ways A successful under 8s football club is looking for more players after losing three squad members to Swindon Town Centre of Excellence. Swindon Rangers Under 8s train at St Francis Primary School, Taw Hill and Tregoze Primary in Grange Park. The club has been building a reputation as winners having won tournaments in Highworth and Bristol in 2008 and The Rodney & Maureen Haines Memorial Trophy earlier this year. Over the May Bank Holiday weekend they beat highly

Badminton ladies Haydon Wick Ladies Badminton Team needs new members to join both league and social teams. The club plays on Tuesday and Friday evenings at the Haydon Centre. Members range in age from 18 to over 60s. Players with some experience are needed to play league games but the club's emphasis on playing for fun will also be attractive to ladies who want to stay fit and improve their game. For details call club secretary Barry Howes on 07771 544705 or mail: baz_howes@yahoo.co.uk

rated teams from London and the South East to win the Camber Championship. To arrange a trial mail manager! coach Dave Tyson: djtyson@sky. corn

Paris ride to give kids mobility Stephanie Whitlock from Abbey Meads is taking part in the London to Paris bike ride on 2 September. The aim is cover the 320 miles in 4 days and raise money for Whizz-Kidz who provide mobility equipment for severely disabled children. Help her at: www.justgiving.com/stephaniewhitlock

Tap dancer and choreographer Jo Scanlan from Nine Elms has the fastest pair of feet on the planet after smashing the record for the fastest tap dance strikes in sixty seconds live on Sky 1 on 7 June. She runs her own tap dance Jo achieved 784 hits in a minute, beating the old record by 182 hits. company Tap Attack and manages Her performance can be seen on the England Tap Team from West Swindon. YouTube. In September the team will be raising money to take them to the world championships in December with a charity curry night at the Bombay Lounge.

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Sarah Chilvers, staunch supporter of Animals Asia from Peatmoor, is offering free high quality educational resources and also talks to schools to highlight the charity's work in rescuing Chinese moon bears. Animals Asia works to raise awareness and encourag °IH cm ,^,,:ql ^i`^ respect for all animals across Asia but particularly wants to see an end to the trade in bear bile. Sarah and her husband r Dave first visited its ' y __ Chinese sanctuary two years ago and, in October, will travel to a newly opened bear sanctuary in Saran and Dacid zoith Anneals Asia finnnder Jill Robinson Vietnam. and director of the nen' bear sanctuani in Viehrmn Tuan Sarah wants to Bendixsen interest schools in "Far from alienating themselves learning more about the plight of the bears and the charity's work. A from the culture and people of cross curricular education pack is China, Animals Asia's strength is on offer free of charge and, as well that they are working alongside as stimulating discussion about Chinese people tobring positive atendangered Asiatic bears, it will titudes to animal welfare for future lead onto wider topics of animal generations," said Sarah. For a free school pack or to arwelfare, conservation and cultural range a talk, call Sarah on 07866 differences, Written for children aged 9 to 13, 519232. www.animalsasia.org the material is carefully structured to be thought provoking without being too upsetting. There are sug' gestions for extended work and ' • ' details of how schools can fulfil global citizenship aims by setting up direct links with Chinese pupils in a school in Sichuan province.

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Cruelty more locally was captured by Mike Newton from Shaw who photographed this male Canada goose shot with a crossbow at Mouldon Hill Park near Taw Hill at the end of May. After several attempts volunteers from Cotswold Swan & Wild Bird Rescue eventuallly caught the bird so that the bolt could be removed and treatment provided.

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Keta, a remarkable dog who overcame serious illness to win canine good behaviour awards has died. sion and people often As a puppy, Keta, ask her proud owner from Old Shaw Lane, Pat Oborn, who runs featured in The Link Spire Dog Training when she picked up School at Wroughboth bronze and silver ton, whether she ever Kennel Club Good Citizen Awards on managed to pass her gold award. She had the same day. Her success was particuhoped to enter Keta larly sweet as she had for the top award this problems absorbing year but her health food which caused had deteriorated too much. sore skin and fatigue; "We managed to keep her going she also suffered from juvenile but she was suffering so much that renal dysplasia. we had to let her go," said Pat. Keta's story made a big impres-

swindonlink.com • July 2009

Setting out to be smashed in aid of SMASH After his London marathon success, Norman Butler is pushing himself to the limit by completing a triathlon and later this year will face an opponent in the boxing ring for charity. His aim is to promote the work of SMASH and raise £1,000 for the 1, project which pairs volunteer adult mentors with vulnerable young people. Norman became a mentor with the charity two years ago after ,.reading a newspaper article. Having mentored two young people, he is taking a break because / of work and family commitments and is focussing instead on raising awareness. "The work of SMASH has a big knock on effect, reducing offending rates and taking the burden off social services. It also gives opportunities to these kids who, through no fault of their own, aren't NORMA. able to fulfil their potential" Norman had only two months to prepare for his first triathlon which ••^ ne'_ took place at Ashton Keynes on 21 June. The race included a 1,500m t i' open water swim, 40km cycle and 10km run. As he could only swim .. 25m front crawl, training started with adult swimming lessons at Dorcan ^d^ pool. Taking the plunge at Ashton Keynes Lake for the first time, literally took his breath away but once he became used to the icy waters, he quickly built up his distance. ' In November, Norman could have his breath taken away once more as he faces a three round bout at Swindon's Boxing Academy. "I've no great desire to get smashed in the ring, but I hope it will encourage more people to support SMASH." Once 1/once dressed up as a pink fairy, www.justgiving.com/normans_triandfight you can do anything. Norman in the www.smash-youth-project.co.uk Bath rnarathon earlier this year

Wildcat vets meet for a reunion match Former Swindon Wildcats will be taking to the ice at Link Centre on 26 July to raise money for toys stolen from the children's ward at Great Western Hospital. Well known names in Wildcat history including Daryl Lipsey, Brian Larkin, Joe Dunn and Paul 'Rust\' O'Donovan as well as Ian Richards, Alan Armour, Andy McGurke and Darren Liffen will be strapping on skates for the cause. Ex-captain Lee Elliott and former coach Richie Howe will also be present. Catch up with some of the players at a pre-match social evening on 25 July at the Nine Elms pub. Tickets for the match will be available on the day at £5, with under 16s free when accompanied by a paying adult. For details contact Rusty O'Donovan on 07790 232186 or mail: dampcureuk@fsmail.net.

Vandals continue to break across railway line Fencing was destroyed a few days after Dave Peacey from Swindon & Cricklade Railway Society made an appeal in the June Link for North Swindon residents not to trespass on the railway which runs next to Oakhurst. The line is leased from Swindon Council and the society is '^ rt` responsible for safety. More trains , will now be running on the line to transport gangs relaying the bal .__ last and rails to prepare the route for passengers in early 2011. Dave Peacey, repeated his ap,. f ^. peal to stay off the line to prevent an accident. Dave and Chris Reynolds at the MOD

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Full Monty response An It's a Knockout participant got carried away performing You can keep your hat on at the Swindon Sports Festival in Lydiard Park on 31 May. Photo: Mike Fenton

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swindonlink.com • July 2009

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John Ball, from Grange Park, who aims to cover Swindon in wildflowers, set out to create a bluebell wood on Shaw Ridge four years ago. His planting is starting to show results with drifts of flowers within the tree planting belt on the ridge, close to the DeVere Hotel. Look out for them next Spring.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust runs a Swindon based group for under 12s to help them become more aware of the environment and wildlife around them, with advice and guidance from experts. Sessions after school or at weekends include pond dipping, nature walks, making bird feeders and other practical activities The group meet once a month in different locations. Coming up: Saturday 18 July: Stanton Park Rangers Cottage. An action packed walk around the park with environmental games designed to explore and discover what lives there; Saturday 15 August: Coate Water Rangers Cottage. Bird watching for heron and kingfisher. Don't forget your binoculars. For details and to book a place, call Sarah Wood on 01380 725670 ext 272ormail: sarahw@wiltshirewildlife.org

A major ecological tourist attraction is taking shape at Shaw Forest and should be ready by the end of September. A network of shallow read beds will filter contaminated water running off the forest park before it enters the River Ray. A footpath which was closed to the public in April is being reinstated to run between the ponds so that walkers will be able to spot the wide range of wildlife that will be attracted over the next few years. • The River Ray Parkway cycle route next to the park which had to be closed for emergency engineering work after a landslip, as reported in the June Link, was resurfaced and reopened in the middle of June.

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Newt story clarification We incorrectly suggested in the June Link that building the £12,000 pond at Peatmoor Primary School was delayed whilst a license was obtained to search for great crested newts. Neil Pullen, Swindon Wildlife Officer at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, says this was not the case. y 'The school asked for advice after somebod had told them that great crested newts were present. We searched the pond and the records held at the Swindon and Wiltshire Biological Records Centre and found no great crested newts. ' We suggested that they proceed on the basis of a'precautionary principle,' that there may be great crested newts. We then wrote a method statement for them to follow. No license was required. 'Wiltshire Wildlife Trust provided this service free of charge and received none of the £12,000 mentioned in the story. In addition WWT staff have provided further advice, been present at planting days and attended the school on 10 June for a hunt of smooth newts. Again all free of charge.' • The £12,000 pond refurbishment was met by school fundraising, grants and sponsorship including £5,000 from Legal and General.

Neil Pullen, left, with Anne Snelgrove MP and last dear's mayor of Swindon Steve Wokefied launching the new pond with Peatnioor pupils. Photo: Robert Slade

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Scope Living Options supports people with physical disabilities and is looking for volunteers to give some ti me on alternate Wednesdays in August and September to drive a minibus of members to South Cerney lakes for disabled sailing sessions. No previous experience is necessary: you just need a clean full driving licence, be between the ages of 21 and 69 and have been driving for at least two years. Swindon Dial-aRide will provide free training. If you can help, or would like more information, call Dave Plotkin on 542074.

Blunsdon based Mainlink Couriers have launched what they think is Britain's first town based same day delivery service using electric scooters. Now environmentally conscious businesses can have small parcels and documents delivered within Swindon without air or noise pollution and minimal carbon emission - for just £3.95+VAT. The Ecolink service was launched at Lower Shaw Farm on 17 June where director Mark Butler, right, said the new service offers companies the chance to reduce their carbon footprint. www. eco-link-swi n d o n.co.uk

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Summer cycling courses for 11 to 18 year olds The Challenge Swindon: More Active, More Often campaign is offering week long courses full of cycling activities in August at various venues around the town. CRB checks and insurance. Courses The courses run by cycle training around Swindon on cycle paths; company Cycling Now, inconjunc- • Basic bike maintenance includ- will start in weeks beginning Mondays 3, 10, 17 and 24 August tion with Swindon Council Leisure ing puncture repairs; • Off road skills using the begin- and parents can book places by the Services, will provide: day at £18. • Bikeability cycle training to ners mountain bike trail at Croft To book call: 07802 396611 or Level 2 of the National Standard Country Park. (teaches children to ride safely); All instructors are National mail: cyclingnow@ntlworld.com www.cyclingnow.co.uk • Orienteering and guided rides Standard qualified with enhanced

Jack's back on a bike with Team Haribo West Swindon biker Jack Groves has found it tough this season after a crucial sponsor let him down at the beginning of the year, but he's secured a regular place with Team Haribo Starmix after a great weekend at Donington Park in early June. "I was over the moon to be asked prepared team." to ride for them," said Jack. "Times Now he's looking for individual are tough so it's fantastic to be in- sponsors to help him through the vited by a recognised and highly season. Backers would receive: • association with the well known names in bike racing like Haribo Starmix; • logos on Jack's web site and vehicle which will be seen all over the UK; • race day tickets. • a logo on his helmet which If you can help mail Jack: jackwill provide TV exposure on Eu- grovesracing&t googlema il.com rosport; www.jackgrovesracing.co.uk ti..

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Cafe celebrates volunteer commitment in the community West Swindon's two community cafes marked Volunteers Week at the beginning of June by welcoming Swindon's new mayor David Wren and Anne Snelgrove MP and invited guests for brunch. They also launched a partnership with Swindon College under the trainto-gain scheme so that volunteers can achieve NVQs for both personal development skills, and customer service and food quali fi cations.

ebrate our wonderful, committed volunteers and show support for what they are doing week on week throughout the year." Discover their talents, and also the tasty food they cook on Mondays atToothill Church and Wednesdays at Freshbrook Community Centre from gam to 2pm. If anyone is interested in volunteering at one of the cafes, drop in on a Monday or Wednesday and talk to Tina or Carol Gibbon on 07944 134915.

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Changing course(s) after 100 years Swindon WEA is inviting new ideas for courses and subjects of interest. The Workers' Educational Association has had an active branch in Swindon since 1909, providing a wide range of courses, from bird-watching to local history, which have enriched the lives of working people and encouraged many to continue their education. In recent years the emphasis of the branch has been on supporting women through education, but in this centenary year the local branch is looking for ideas for courses which will appeal to all men and women in Swindon. Would you enjoy studying contemporary fiction or social history?, how about jazz, or industrial archaeology? The WEA is also looking for quali fi ed teachers/tutors who would enjoy working with groups of adults from all backgrounds. To suggest a course for the next programme, or discuss becoming a tutor with Britain's major voluntary adult education organisation call Amanda Broomhall on 07787 002231 or mail abroomhill@wea.org.uk

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FREEPHONE 0808 155 4692 MARK ECA

01793 851509 or 07774 437433 Email : cowleyelectrical a@btinternet.com

o^^st^ruction Limited Milbrooke Construction Limited - offering a complete end-to-end management service - from initial design, planning and building regulation approval through to construction of the works. •

All building work/construction undertaken

• Conversions, extensions and refurbishment work • Single property newbuild projects

Tel: 01 93 511427 2nd Floor, 3 Charnwood Court, Newport St, Swindon Milbrooke Construction Limited is an establishec reputable Swindon based company which also u major groundwork and civil engineering projects, national development companies and local authorities

°3

J !

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR 1

www.milbrooke.co.uk

ABC BUILDERS GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST

q Alterations q Decking q Patios q Extensions q Block Paving Driveways No job too small For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 01 01793 814690 after 6pm

PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989 * Extra sockets and lights

Brickwork & Roofing Specialist s 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'

Including Extensions Loft Conversions Plumbing Patios & Fencing Wall & Floor Tiling Block Paving Painting & Decorating

Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 078899 21570

* Shower and cooker installation # Fuse hoard replacement Complete re-wiring Security lighting P.A.T. testing NO JOB TOO SMALL part P

Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering

Unit 14a, Turnpike. Blursdon

COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING

(MASS

SERVICES

repairs & replaces cracked, broken or t — misted double glazed windows

Also hinges and locks

Call: 01793 852739 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs 07976 219671

4j Plumbing 8 Property NAalntmnance Services Paul Thrush City& Guilds Qualified • Commercial & Domestic Plumbing • Heating Maintenance • Bathroom Suites/Shower installation • Property Maintenance • Paint & Decorating

West Swindon Plumbing

Call Charlie for a free no obligation quote on all your plumbing needs EXAMPLE PRICING: Bathrooms fitted from £180 Leaking taps sorted from £20 Outside taps fitted from £30 No callout charge. OAP discount All work guaranteed.

07766 565458 01793 432512

Tel: 01793 848122 /07784869277

Email: ptplumbing@yahoo.co.uk

Approved contractor of

b DAY2DAY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Kitchens & bathrooms • All types of worktops - granite, solid and real wood • Ceramic tiling • All types of flooring - laminate & real wood • All types of fencing, decking & pagodas • Painting & decorating Give us a try. for a free no obligation quote

Call Jeff on 07747 606344 24 hr ansaphone: 01793 700796

wRAs

Gas and LPG Boiler servicing & breakdowns Boiler exchange 4• Full system installation e Landlord safety checks e Power flush e Plumbing Emergency call outs Reliable friendly service Competitive rates Tel. 01793 887419 Mob. 07912 882090

womr

countywideheati ng@yahoo.co.u k

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS • Kitchen/Bathroom Installations • Painting & Decorating • Plumbing • Tiling • Minor Electrical • Carpentry • Garden landscaping/Maintenance • Patios & Decking

Tel: 01793 721677 Mobile 07919415849

PLUMBING SERVICES

• DOMESTIC PLUMBING • LEAKS & BURST PIPES • TAP WASHERS & BALL VALVES • IMMERSIONS & HOT WATER CYLINDERS • RADIATORS REPLACED • TAPS, SINKS & TOILETS • FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS • WALL& FLOOR TILING

• All aspects of! leafing and Ptumbing undertaken • Boiler and central heating installations and repairs • Gas safety certificates • Bathroom design and installation • General repairs and p saf gRuEGIISTE I iR

Tel: 01793 524 200 Mobile: 07810 823 966 gbplumbing@hotmail.co.uk

ELECTRICIAN

8v Property Renovation Services Fuse board upgrade, Rewiring, New sockets, Lighting, Cooker & Shower installations No job too small Kitchen & Bathroom refits and anything else in between Free quotations and no call out charge Call Iain on 01793 851374 or 07860 689695 e-mail: iain(rdixiain.co.uk Part P Approved Contractor

} ♦ PLASTERING & DRY LINING V GENERAL BUILDING WORK ♦ REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT V PAINTING & DECORATING V CERAMIC WALL & FLOOR TILING

For a FREE Estimate Call 01793 824772 07962 908082 www gJSpro pe rtylmprovements.CO. UK

Semi-retired Plumber 24hr emergency call out • Leaks & burst pipes • Blocked drains, sinks & toilets • Immersions & hot water cylinders • Tap washers & ball valves • Complete bathrooms refitted • Radiators changed • Dishwashers & washing machines plumbed in

Tel: 01793 324116 Mob: 07788 621772

Bathrooms & Kitchens Complete installations to dripping taps

Ideas to realitv

WUMUIR

24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG 3 Boiler & System Upgrades 3 Breakdown & Maintenance 3 Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms 3 Power Flushing / Descaling 3 DIY Assisted Projects 3

UPVC, Facia and Guttering Specialists • • • • • • • • • •

We offer Free quotes No deposit needed Best prices No salesmen 10 minute survey Local family business 19 yrs experience Repairs & cleaning No job too small All work guaranteed

NO MORE PAINTING - DEAL DIRECT

01793 725155

MERLIN BATHROOMS

Complete bathroom installations

•

• Walls & floors • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Conservatories

• Laminate & wood flooring • Appliance installation • Also other home improvements

Established 21 years Fullyinsured Call Peter on 01793 878732 or

FREEPHONE 0800 6118144

Call Leon for a free, no obligation quote on:

No job too small Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 887766

01793 524147

or 07919 255673

Mobile: 07979 267757

TREVOR WYSE Painter & Decorator

For your `Superior Interior' The complete package in bathroom installation including wall and floor tiling, underfloor heating and plumbing.

• Wallpaper specialist • Loving • Dado Rails • Special Effects • Tiling

All work guaranteed with references available Attention to detail and finish our priority For free friendly estimate please contact DARREN BAKER-STEWART on

01793 320773 07779 006360 darrenbakerstewart@rocketmail.com

PHONE 4 PHIL

Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023 email: trevorwyse@uwclub.net www.trevorwyse.co.uk •TRu

MARK

SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC. Local, reliable & competitive nrices

HOME: 01193 615321 MOBILE: 01175 842241

adept Repairs & Maintenance Electrical iii.

i s) & n

LCSL)

wr'^ E® oomesnc

Plumbing Domestic/Commercial Design, installations & repairs Fully insured Guaranteed work

Freephone: 0800 9 553 554 Tel: 01793 491 544 adeptrm@hotmail.com Reliable & Reasonable

'_'^ DUIux e/e ct

Decorators I

The Renovation..

Wizard Home & garden maintenance Painting, decorating, tiling Window replacement Grass & tree cutting Electrical work; computer repairs Taxi & transporting items

Window and car cleaning Plumbing Any other jobs. small or large please call Colin 07501 770091 E: renovationwizard@hotmail.co.uk

25 years experience

MILESTONE

ALL SEASONS 24 HR

Building Services

PLUM81N4 & f1EA77NG SERVILE!

QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS

I NSTRIIER LO

Supply & fit or fit only

• Kitchen/bathroom upgrades ,^ • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps Q. • Flat pack furniture o+ • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949

• Electrics Wall & floor tiling • Carpentry

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

01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk

Specialist in all aspects of the trade

towel warmers

I Plumbing & Heating Che RMS11R^R

HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE

• Plumbing inc. pumped showers,

ASSI, t A local reliable & friendly service

Professional, experienced tiler

N45H DOWN

GENERAL PROPERTY

Specialists in

MAINTENANCE

Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms

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

Complete service

Working in conjunction with

landscape gardening

TileSure

Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring

Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154

No job too small • Free estimates

Free quotations All work guaranteed

Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536

Dave Rogers '

ee and e^azeur

Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including: •

• Painting Wallpapering •

Tiling

• Coving

General Maintenance

NO JOBTOO SMALL For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

Qua//fled tradesman, 28 years experience

Want your wall or floor tiles fitted? Then call

TILEfix for a free quotation to get them fixed and grouted with the minimum of fuss Tel: 01793 495364 Mob: 07767 242124 Email: tilefix4u@aol.com

1 ORn

BATHROOMS

BUILDING SERVICES

BATHROOMS

BATHROOMS 8C

Plumbing & Heating

KITCHENS FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

WALL & FLOOR TILING

For a free estimate Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361 www.rsbatlirooms.com

D ECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating

• Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving

= Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of * All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

Free estimates

01793 876600 07748 964433

PW(.G ;Z WGd

Exterior Painting

► Garden walls & patios

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

► Block paved driveways

Roofing & building maintenance

Call Andy: 01793 729354 or 07900 835116

DECORATOR MARK PONTING PAINTING & • DECORATING Inc. WALL PAPERING

Comer

?Dulux Decorators 1a

840236 uotation

Free Quotations

Tel: 01793 727942

ELECTRICIAN

HEATING & PLUMBING

SAFE&SH -.W ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Quality Plumbing & Heating

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

Please call Paul Eastham on 07769 883717

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathrooms & tiling

Part P

I MAINTENANCE

Reg 128966

All plumbing work undertaken

Reliable service, realistic prices

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

or 07917 208094

All work guaranteed

safe

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 66336 7

For a tree quote call Leighton

on 01793 813438

Telephone/fax: 01793 874 807

Domestic and Commercial

internal alterations

► Plastering & coving f° r DE o UTT ^ M

Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling

Also interior decorating

No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

► Garage conversions

UPVC windows & doors

Fascias, soffits, windows, doors and rendering

• Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom

Galaxy Construction Ltd

► Extensions

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

Approved WRAS Pkrn A °° h ear !Ph e

DECORATOR

BUILDING SERVICES

HEATING & PLUMBING

DECORATOR FREE ESTIMATES INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs

Call

01793

v 334823 O

or 07788 572043

HEATING & PLUMB ING

RJ Pace

iio & HEATm LTD Plumbing & Heating Services 30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained +Central heating installations •All Plumbing work undertaken • Servicing & repairs ♦ Bathroom Installations All at

competitive

rates

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

Safe 215153

20 years experience in plumbing work

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

safe 203455

PLASTERING

PLU MBING

KTL

WOF PLUMBING PLUMBING & HEALING SERVIQS

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbinb Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions Call Andre«- on 07718 022201

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

Plastering Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes

From an annoying

drip to a full bathroom re-fit No call out charge

Floor screeding

Free quotations

Small building works

Professional & friendly service

No job too small r_

07747 752190 01793 529192

CARPENTRY

D&IRS CaQ)c & y

J S Property Services

Ho me & Garden Impr ovements

J Fitted k bedrooms

Jobs oj'all si:es finivhed to high stundardc!

and kitchens

Hardwood & laminate tlooling

J Replacement

Fitted kitchens & hedroonis Intenordoors& stud partitions Fitted ward ro bes s t ora ge volution,

doors & staircases -D Laminate floors

Decking. fencing & gate.,

Household repairs and general maintenance :3 Decking - supplied and fitted Free no obligation quotes

Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

DOUBLE GLAZING

DECORATOR

Replacement & ness stairs Garage conversions Skirting, architrav e. dodos & con nip ftathroom units, boxing in pipes & more!

Trusted famil y business since 1954 Full y qualified & Insured! 01793 7262 27 or 07882841983

General building maintenance Free estimates Call Jamie on 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co .ul<

ELECTRICIAN

Arc Electrical Services Ltd

General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios

01793 872054 0770 480 1959 arcelectriCs@aol.com Installations and modifications, interior or exterior Full compliance to all regulations P.A.T. undertaken All work fully guaranteed NiN

ELECTRICIAN

Dave Ody

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

ELECTRICAL

Extensions/Rewires New Installations Testing and Inspection Security Lighting Showers & Fuseboxes Free quotes • 24 hour call out

Free quotations

24hr call out Fast, top quality service

FLOORING

HOM

01793 878609

07885 543294

E MAINTENANCE

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

17 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

E F

07970 865883

for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364

Carpentry services Grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Kitchen installations Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

ROOFING

HOUSEMARTIr • FELT ROOFING • ASPHALT ROOFING • SHEET ROOFING • TILING • SLATING • SINGLE PLY • FASCIA • GUTTERING

Steve George

Painting and decorating

MASTERFITTER

AM'j s ESC

ALL KITCHENS FITTED • Free survey

• Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite

COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture 3 0 years experienced tradesman

TILING

TifeSure CERAMIC TILING Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with ALL ffAfolJ124 HP

01793 700436 07725 028776

(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)

Building work • Plastering

PLUU8ING & /#Eh7TNCf SER TCE.f CALL NEIL ON

• Consumer units • Shower installations • Re-wires • Testing • Fault finding • Garden lighting • No job too small or large • Part P Certified Telephone 07810 203764/07531376379 .s,^ sales@soundfit.co.uk www.soundfit.co.uk :5B^=« ^

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SE RVICE S

^I R SERV E8 All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

A CHANGE OF COLOUR PAINTING AND DECORATING Established Swindon decorator. experienced in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating 3 Domestic, commercial & letting 3 Specialist in insurance claims & DIY 'rescues' 3 Competitive rates (no VAT) 3 Excellent references 3 Registered and recommended by the Painting & Decorating Association 3 Age Concern (Wiltshire) approved decorator 3 Full public liability insurance

QUALITY FINISH Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692

"'^cE'^ APPROVED

TILING

GILES BROFS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

ACCOUNTANCY

AERIAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTANCY

d bh

Lynette White MAAT

Ci Ia1 ^L^I'^t^

certified

Accountancy Se rv ices

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS

Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT returns

Freeview & Sky installations

Payroll - CIS Scheme

SMALL BUSINESS SPECIALISTS

TV & radio aerials

Final Accounts Tax Returns

16 Dorcan Business Village Murdock Road, Dorcan, Swindon

Personal service for small businesses

Extra TV & telephone points

Competitive prices

lynettewhite48@btinternet.com

Email: info@dbh-accountants.co.uk www.dbh-accountants.co.uk

• Carpets. rugs. curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Full', insured NJ CC^ • Quickly usable You'll be amazed how af%ordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487

Mobile: 07904 330124

CLE ANING

• 8mm, 9.5mm, 16mm & 17.5mm Film Unique to UKTelecine equipment • Sound or Silent tine formats Save Those Memories now offers • True Digital Telecine process in the best quality transfer service in the UK Standard (SD) or High Definitiion (HD) • World class Broadcast quality for Families, Libraries & Museums • Transfer to DVD, Blu-Ray or .avi files Also home formats VHS, HiS, DV etc, 01 • Photos and 35mm Slides onto DVD SAVE THOSE MEMORIES 9 Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co.uk Ful

Enwil: cliff.whiteway(' btinlcrnet.com

C OMPUT ER SUPPORT Corn Master's

Repairs

We provide a range of computer services for both home and business including: • PC repairs and maintenance Systemupgrades, networking • Custom built computers

Why go anywhere else? When we'll come to you Free home & business visits Jargon free ads ice & support ' Upgrades/repairs =i= A ll parts & labour guaranteed =i Flexible hours, inc. ese/wweekend

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0792 005 6077 t

osorr

COMPUTER SUPPORT Computer problems? Let us help

• Window s home ho Virus removal

SKY

Tel: 01193 100018

CARPET CLEANING CINEFILM TO DVD The Carpet &

*: Home cinema

Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625

Tel: 01793 610008

Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

FEN YEARS EXPERIENCE OF

registered auditors and taxation advisers

^f Whiteway

CHRIS PAYN

installs

• Data recovery

Tel: 01793 325685

RTISIN

STN IMP CT Cover to cover readership and strong, trusted brand recognition - Swindon's most closely read publication Call 01793 602540 for details

www.swind nlink.com

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget Regular cleans, Spring cleans. Moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee Call us now for free, no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 511885

GARAGE DOORS S&P —

The

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 ;t - -

Maxwell House. Maxwell Street, Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

..,

Internet solutions With over 15 years experience, you can rely on us

4hierry !maidss

Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine

)

01793 513796 email: swindondoorservic @btlnternet.to.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk 10% discount with this advert

RECYCLING

c^^Ap

G^C^4L^ All scrap metal removed

free of charge No fridges or freezers

01793 613396 07899 018167 Registered waste carrier

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

BOOK-KEEPING

REMIER

; Can't face doing the books \ after a hard "° day's work?

lectri cs Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances

] '

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience. Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748

Same day/next day service

Tel: 01793 469300

www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEARANCE

T Rrecy"cisng

Don't sit back and do nothing about climate change

COMPUTER SUPPORT

SIGMA

COM PUTER SQLtlTI ONS Clearance Si Recycling of Commercial & Domestic Waste Che.pr Than a Skip & Twlcc the Cpacity!

• Commercial. Home. Garden. Garage, Site Clearance • Load Assist & 24 Hour Seprvice

• New PCs/Repairs/Upgrades • Virus/Data Recovery & Backup • Internet & Network Solutions • Home & Business Support For friendly EXPERT advice and PROMPT on-site service:

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363

JOBS

OVEN CLEANING

a THERE'S A NEW PARTY I N TOWN... pass it on! Jamie Oliver is coming to town! Don • t rniss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of his exciting new business J,n. We are currently seeking self-employed Managers and Consultants with or without Party-Plan experience.

Could this be you? For more details please contact: Julie Pearson Mobile: 07941 060330 Enquiries: enyuiriesSiamieathome.com

SWINDON OVEN CLEANING The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

To book your oven clean call Maggie on 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution every time Hobs, extractors and microwaves also undertaken

REMOVALS

WHIIE VAN MAHI

Great house removal prices Disposal of unwanted items Garden rubbish removed 7 DAYS A WEEK, UP TO 9PM Fult_v v insured. Call for a free quote

Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

The Government UK Climate Projections 2009 report in mid-June warned that the UK's climate will be hotter and bring greater extremes of flood and drought. Environment Secretary pare for climate change, Hilary Benn has said that and to encourage others cli mate change is going to do the same." to transform the way we WWT is one of the live. In December the UK's leading environworld's leaders will be mental charities, which meeting at the UN Clirecognises that the conservation of wildlife and preservamate Conference in Copenhagen tion of the planet are inextricably to try and come to an agreement linked, and works to promote a on cutting emissions to slow clisustainable future for wildlife mate change. But is leaving the environment purely in the hands and people. The Trust has more than 18,000 members and supof politicians good enough? porters, and more than a thousand Addressing climate change is no volunteers working on a range of longer seen as a stand alone issue. projects from promoting energy There are no simple quick fixes, efficiency in the home as a step change is now central to choice of towards slowing climate change, lifestyle of each individual. to waste prevention programmes Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) offers ways for you to take action that reduce the rubbish going to landfill sites, to working on the at a local level. "The impacts of Trust's nature reserves to conserve climate change are too great to igthe countryside and the rich variety nore," says the Trust's Greener Livof plants and animals life. ing officer Emma Harrington. "We Find out more at: www.wiltneed to roll up our sleeves and take shirewildlife.org steps to reduce emissions, to pre-

Council to collect virtually all plastic Swindon Council will start collecting nearly every kind of plastic from 1 July - including supermarket vegetable and meat trays, plastic bags, yoghurt pots. margarine and ice cream containers - in addition to clear plastic bottles already picked up. All can now be put into one bag together. The only exception is black plastic items which cannot be separated by the waste processors. Hard plastic items like furniture, toys. pots. washing up bowls, buckets and storage containers like sandwich boxes should be taken to the Household Waste Recycling Centre at Cheney Manor. The council has set a target to recycle 50 per cent of all Swindon's household waste by 2010. The figure now stands at 44 per cent, up from 19 per cent when kerbside recycling was launched. People can now use their own sacks for plastic recyclables but they must be white or clear. For details: www.swindon.gov.uk/environment

Memories can be restored Chris Squires, a specialist in converting film and video footage to digital images, has invested in state of the art machinery to give the best results possible. by Chris. "Most customers choose Under the business name Save me because they like the idea that Those Memories he cleans cine film and transfers them onto DVDs. it's me who they speak to and will transfer the film to DVD and Perhaps surprisingly, he says I will post it back. It's a bespoke thatcinefilmisfarmorestablethan VHS which can degrade very rapservice." Chris watches each film twice idly. He recommends that people during processing and sees families with video recordings from the grow up before his eyes. "It's great 1980s and 90s should think about when you get huge archives and converting them sooner rather see children grow from bumps to than later, graduation. The work is very rePassionate about ensuring the warding; some people haven't seen best possible quality, Chris has their films for 40 years and might invested in a high-tech 'Memory be viewing moving images of their HD' machine, the first of its kind relatives for the first time." to be installed in the UK. It speeds Services include transfer of films up cine processing times and gives to DVD or files for home editing a better end result. from single reels to large archives. Increased processing capacity is Call Chris on 495733 to discuss the crucial, as Save Those Memories service y ou need. attracts customers from around www.savethosememories.co.uk the globe and is operated entirely

swindonlink.com • July 2009

Nets memorials - Additional inscriptions Old memorials cleaned and renovated Free estimates • BRANI\I accredited Ot'et 2:7 r erus' e syirrirncr

Tel: 01793 861035 or 07935 309644 : email tcrressInter(ahotnail.co.uk

All Saints Lydiard Millicent Garden Party Manor House (behind the church) Saturday 11 July, 2pm to 5pm BBQ. cream teas, stalls, games, trips up the bell tower, art competition open to all ages, village stocks, Lydiard Has Talent show

In aid of Maggie's Cottage and Swindon Food Bank www.allsaints-online.org.uk

Ofsted Registered Childminder in Greenmeadow/Haydon Wick A warm, friendly, smoke free, safe environment for children aged 0-12

Drop off/collection from playgroup/school

Film Production Services Any event professionally filmed and put onto DVD disc, at a ff ordable rates. Business and Family events large or small undertaken.

Quiet/sleeping area and snacks provided

Tel: 01793 705333

Call Caroline on 01793 705829

We call, discuss and give you a price

Ann Summers

2 BERTH MOTOR HOME FOR HIRE

Early Years Foundation Stage followed Full/part time, before/after school care

Want to enjoy a girls' night in? Book a party with Claire and quote'LINK'to get a free bottle of wine on the night.

07736 688953 RECRUITING NOW

SWIFT LIFESTYLE SUNDANCE 530LP Seat configuration: 1 double or 2 single beds EQUIPMENT INCLUDED: Gas Heater, Fridge, Gas cooker, Microwave, Fresh water tank, Mains power supply 240v/1 2v,, Awning

Young people organise festival

BATHROOM FACILITIES: Shower, Toilet, Water heater

For details contact Mandy on

01793 702609 or 07758 396839

JOY'S PIANO FORTE ,

Tuition in piano and keyboard All ages - pre-school to adult

Classical, I ar,, pracric.,liaeon grade exams I repaearion for st atic scholarship/diploma teams Conccrr planet

Call Joy on 01793 722296 or e-mail: joyspianoforteCyahoo.co_uk

DISC SERVICES."

Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes. Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

NSBC

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School 7

/THAMESDOWN DRIVE ''•.. . Meaaa '^'p "^•"^^ 'Community ^. 'â

's^F

si" Primary ,j`

school

1 Abbot' Meade

Vlllpa • Cmha ...

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons

Contact: H.

Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John's Haydon Wick Sunday Services Traditional communion service 9am 11am Eventful, contemporary worship with children's groups meeting www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk

Mad March Hare organisers say thank you Following the success of this year's Mad March Hare event on Sunday 15 March, the fantastic amount of £11,497.74 was raised for Wiltshire Breakthrough for Breast Cancer, writes Mandy Martin. The Mad March Hare organising team would l i ke to give huge thanks to the 500 entrants and 80 volunteers who made the second MMH such a great event. Our gratitude goes to our spondy sors: Legal & General, Swindon /I Borough Council Challenge Swin40 don, Les Slinn Personal Training, Big Adventure Store, Fitness First, ^^ Triumph and Greendown School. Avery special thank you also goes sponsorship money, it is not too to The Link, The Handy Mag, It's late.SendchequestoHelenGeorge, All About and Brunel FM for their 8 Muirfield, Redhouse, Swindon SN25 2DD. coverage of the event. We are now planning for MMH Look at the photos at: www. 3 on 7 March 2010, so watch this madmarchhare.org If you have not yet sent in your space.

A festival aiming to boost community spirit in West Swindon and showcase young people's talents attracted hundreds of visitors to Shaw Village Centre in late May. The Mix, organised by Christian youth group ncounter in partnership with West Swindon Churches, helped raise money for street children's charity Toybox. There were workshops in knitting, crafts and spray can art and an opportunity to work on a community mural. Children were kept amused with puppet shows and a bouncy slide. Fashion and beauty workshops were a hit and the JaketheJugglerhelpedlawuhTheMixzoithRez, Smoothie Bar cafe did a steady Ann Thomas, Clare Camm of ncounter and The trade all day. The nationally Collective. Below, raffle prizes from residents of famous Lacey Theatre Corn- George & Anne Tweed Gardens in Shaze pany ran drama workshops during the afternoon and performed their new show The Story so Far to a full house in the evening. Music from the Collective provided entertainment with shows by young people who attend the Base Saturday Club and holiday workshops. www.ncounter.co.uk/emerge

WEST SWINDON &THE LYD12KDS CHUKCH PAKTNEKSHIP Join us in worship on Sunday mornings Westlea Church, Westlea School: loam s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: loam diard Millicent - the church in the village: 1o.3oam Holy Trinity, Shaw: 1o.3oam Toothill Church: 1o.3oam For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 8742-21 Email: partnershipoffice 3vww.wswinlyd.org.uk

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Open daily 10.00am â€” 5.00pm

0845 072 6505 I mage shows a typical Bryant or George Wimpey home Price correct at time of going to press.

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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