June 1989 Swindon Link

West Swindon's

Magazine

ChaneWear Furniture OFFICE FURNITURE BE "SAFE" Safes with combinations only £99

17- 20 HIGH STREET No. 87 • June 1989 • Circulation 10,000

WOOTTON BASSETT Tel: 853887

Time capsule buried until 2089 New Mayor's First Duty May Day at the West Swindon Centre was dayof contrasts with the past, present and future woven into ceremony and entertainment. Last year's Mayor of Thamesdown, Coun. Jim Cordon, placed a number of items in a casket which was sealed into a capsule and buried for 100 years. This was followed by a Victorian Fun Fair and a display of May Pole dancing directed by Kathy Geddes of the Thamesdown Dance Studios. All The Link magazines going back to December 1978 were microfilmed and included in the capsule along with a map of Swindon, a tape of hit songs, rail and bus timetables, photographs of Gateways ozone friendly products, a photograph of a 3-bed semi priced at just under £75,000, plus a number of other items. The Victorian Fair was run by volunteers from the West Swindon Family Project. It included a

Alexander Ogle presents the Mayor with a box containing ten years of The Link on microfilm

hand turned roundabout, a rolling horse, swing boats and a puppet show. By contrast, closeby, attempts were made to inflate the tethered Royal Mail hot air balloon. The gusty wind disappointed the many people who queued for a ride. The whole event was paid for by Gateway and altogether £270 was raised for the West Swindon Family Project's holiday fund.

Long wait nearly over

The new Mayor ofThamesdown, Councillor Ken Savage, performed the first of the many public duties he will undertake during the coming year. On the morning after receiving the chains of office he picked out the six winners in the The Link magazine survey prize draw. A massive survey of people living in West Swindon was published in the April edition of the magazine. The questionnaire, put together in conjunction with the Borough of Thamesdown's Community Development Division, asked readers a wide range of questions about what they thought of services, facilities and the problems in the area. There were also questions about what readers thought of The Link. In all 568 survey forms were returned, most with prize draw entries. This represents a 5.8% response rate, which, according to the experts, is good for a selfreturn questionnaire. The winner of the £50 first prize is Mrs. P. Richardson of Silch-

ester Way, Westlea. A full list of winners can be found on page 3. Many thanks to all those who took the time to fill in and return the questionnaire. The information is being analysed at present and we hope to present the results later in the year. Our grateful thanks to the Mayor and Mayoress for taking the time to draw out our six lucky readers.

Hillsborough fund help

West Swindon most isolated corner is to get a community centre A marathon hair cutting session Town could drop in on the Sun- at long last. The first residents moved to Sparcells in August 1987 and since last July parents have been asking Thamesdown Council for somewhere to meet with their young children. They have repeatedly pointed out that they are very cut off from the closest facilities at Shaw and the nearest playgroups have a waiting list. A report to a Policy and Resources sub-committee on 16 May said that the first officer meetings had taken place a year previously and local developers were approached for help in September 1988. One, Clarke Homes, offered to provide a temporary building with all service connections at no cost to the Council. In return they asked for the opportunity to negotiate the purchase of land at The Prinnels in Shaw, paying the full market price. The sub-committee decided to accept the off erfrom Clarke Homes and will be selling land in Shaw for private housing, which will require planning permission. A group of parents in Sparcells are very pleased by the decision. They have been meeting on the Locobus double-decker mobile community centre since last September, and were expecting to loose it at any time to other areas without facilities. "Its brilliant news," said Elaine Munday, who has written several letters and made many telephone calls over the past months. "Its about time though. We've been on to the council for a long, longtime, but a decision seemed impossible. Now the playgroup we have been raising money for will have somewhere to start up." Local councillor Ricky Midwinter said the decision to accept the offer of a community building had been a breakthrough.

started on 29 April and ended 24 day. By then I think we all looked hours later with one hundred and and felt like zombies." twenty heads of hair cut and £866 Town player Fitzroy Simmons donated to the Hillsborough said Cut 'n Dry had done a great Tragedy Appeal Fund. job for a good cause. "I'm priviThe fundraising idea came leged to be here." from Sue Collins, proprietor of • The regulars at Freshbrook's the Cut 'n Dry hairdressing sa- Cornflower pub raised over £800 ions at Freshbrook and Shaw for the Hillsborough fund at a Village Centres. She and five skittles challenge evening in May. hairdressers worked the mara- • Going for the top. Phil King, thon session at the Shaw shop, left back with Swindon Town, helped by other staff who came gives a day in his life on page 14. in to keep them going. "We were surprised and really pleased by the support from local Two big events for you people. There was a great atmosphere throughout," said a weary to join in with looking Sue. "The Mayor visited West Swindon us on the Saturday, then turned up at midnight for a trim." Under 5's Festival "Pizzarama were great by keeping us going with free piz& A Community Picnic zas and it was good that Phil plus Fetes galore j King and Fitzroy from Swindon

Inside

Nationwide Anglia

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Grange Park, 3 bed, link semi-det house, £64,995

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Ramleaze, 2 bed det bungalow, £76,995

Eastleaze, 3 bed semi-det. house, £79,950

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*Full Colour Photograph 'sMz High Quality Details!* 4-Regular Advertising with Ph o to 's I For Sale Signsk Accompanied Viewings in Our Vehicles — if Required! No Fee!47 *No Sale We supply all this but we do not ask you to pay one penny extra. For more information call Swindon 872222 now!

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P.S. If you are not on our mailing list but would be interested in receiving details, why not give us a call? (Sandoes are the ONLY local members of the Nationwide Anglia Estate Agency network, which has over 400 branches throughout the U.K. Dedicated to the highest professional standards, Sandoes has absolutely no connection with the various agencies trading locally as 'Nationwide Estate Agents.'

FRONT PIECE

3

'Volunteers Work' comes to Link Centre Dozens of voluntary organisations are putting themselves on display to the public at the Link Centre in June. On 7 and 8 June up to 100 voluntary groups will be showing what they do in a big exhibition entitled "Volunteers Work." The range of groups displaying their activities is very wide and will include Age Concern, the Council for Racial Equality, Gingerbread, Thamesdown Voluntary Services Centre, the Well Women Centre and many more. One of the aims of "Volunteers Work" is to make the public more aware of all the voluntary work that goes on, usually unseen and often unrecognised, across

Thamesdown. It is also a chance for people to discover how they could take part involuntary work. The event is being organised by the Borough ofThamesdown's Community Development Division, the Swindon district Health Authority and Wiltshire County Council Social Services Department. "Volunteers Work" will be open to public in the Community Suite at the Link Centre from 1p.m. to 5p.m. on Wednes-

day 7 June and 10a.m. to 4p.m. on Thursday 8 June.

The Link

Published on the Wednesday Draw Winners closest to the first of the The winners in The Link month. Copy date: 12th of magazines's West Swindon the preceding month.

Contents 3 Front Piece 4 Toothill 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 Westlea 9 Shaw 10 For Women 12 Recreation 14 Day In the Life 15 At Your Library 16 Arts Scene 17 Education Matters 18/20 News & Views 21 Home & Garden 22 Round Up 23 The Reference Page

Survey Grand Prize Draw are: First for £50 Mrs. P. Richardson, Silchester Way, Westlea Runners up for £10 each Melva McMullin, Castlefield Close, Eastleaze Sarah Marmoy, Hillyard Close, Grange Park Mr. G.. Greenfield, Windmill Court, Freshbrook Mr. P. Shurey, Basingstoke Close, Freshbrook B. McKenna, Castilian Mews, Shaw

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Voluntary Organisations Exhibition Wednesday. 7June 1pm - 5pm Thursday. 8June lOam - 4pm Ike Gradwell Community Suite Link Centre Hundreds of voluntary organisations are actively helping others in the community. Come along and look more closely at what some of them do You may find something that can change your life.

EXCURSIONS & TOURS Sun 4 June Wed 7 June Sun 11 June Thurs 15 June Sun 18 June Wed 21 June Sun 25 June Wed 28 June Sun 2 July

New Forest, Bournemouth Weymouth Swanage Three Counties Show -Malvern Bournemouth Iron Bridge Gorge Stratford -on-Avon & Evesham Glastonbury & Wells Brighton

Child Adult £4.00 £5.50 £4.50 £6.00 £6.00 £4.50 £8.50 £8.00 Inc. admission £4.00 £5.50 £6.50 £4.75 £5.00 £3.75 £5.00 £6.00

£3.75 £4.75

Thamesdown Transport Enquiries and Bookings at: Fleming Way Kiosk (Nr. Primark) Tel: 615399.

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Wiltshire's brightest Introduction Agency and Social Register Telephone Rosemarie or Elizabeth on 487761 or 790927

Status Quo Vote

The elections for representatives on Wiltshire County Council on 5 May did not produce any change in the two West Swindon wards which return councillors. Published by West In Toothill Ward (including Swindon Publications Westlea, Shaw and Sparcells), 13 Castle Dore Alan Winmill - Labour, was Freshbrook, Swindon returned with 1,563 votes in a Tel: (0793) 872282 28% turnout. In Freshbrook and Grange Publisher/Editor: Park, Simon Cordon of the SDP Roger Ogle received 1,160 votes in a 39% Advertising Sales: turnout. Elizabeth Wood •A full list of councillors represTel: 871793 enting West Swindon, with d Apple Macintosh design, addresses and telephone numlayout and lasersetting by bers, and otheruseful information IMacOgle. Printed by Western Webb, Bristol can be found on page 23.

"The Link was first published In December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, In fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine Is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

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TOOTHILL

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FOR A SUMMER FIGURE EVERYONE WILL NOTICE Call your Counsellor ROY & JAN Tel: 872693 (Answerphone sometimes) Delivery Service to West Swindon & further afield

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RALPH PALMER PHARMACY Ralph Palmer, M.P.S., Dispensing Chemist 3, Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon—Fri. 9a.m. - 1p.m.; 2p.m. —6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. - 12 noon Telephone: 512063

Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food & Fish and Chips Special Chinese Food Take-Away Menu TEL: 487055 Hours of Business 6.00-11.30pm Sunday Closed all day Monday 5.00-11.30pm Tuesday Wednesday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-11.30pm Thursday 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-11.30pm 12.00-1.45pm 5.00-12.00 Friday Saturday 12.00-2.00pm 5.00-12.00

Toothill Times Pupils at Toothill School have been studying how newspapers and magazine are put together. Zoe Klngham and Becci Matysek report for The Link on their work. Toothill Times is a newspaper that is made in class 3M atToothill School because our topic is on books. Becci Matysek is the editor of our paper. Zoe Kingham is the assistant manager. "I think that everybody works well together," said Becci Matysek. Zoe Kingham thinks "The Toothill Times is really good and I enjoy doing it". Janine Felton says, "The Toothill Times is brilliant I really like it". Emma Belcher thinks "The Toothill Times is good especially with Becky and Zoe". Rebecca Bathe "The Toothill Times is good because we all get along very very well". When Mr Ogle of TheLinkcame

Toothill Farm Playgroup Summer Fete Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive Saturday 24 June 2p.m. Lots of Stalls, Car Boot Sale, Games, Inflatable, Refreshments he brought a big black bag. He had all the pages stuck on boards. All the pictures in The Link are made up of dots. After Mr Ogle had finished he went to class 4M. Mr Ogle told us how he put the paper together on a computer and goes to Bristol to print it out. From The Editor: Many thanks for the 60 letters sent to me following my visit. The comments made were very interesting

Below: The Toothill Times production team hold up The Link as it comes off the printing press, 1. to r., Janine Felton, Zoe Alford, Becci Matysek, Rebecca Bathe, Emma Belcher

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All women wanted for self-defence

Centre's Annual Meeting

Toothill Women's Group is putting on a six week self defense course for women at Toothill Church, Dunwich Drive, Toothill. The course will run from Monday 12 June to Monday 17 July, lOa.m.-lla.m. Free creche available. Cost £10 waged, £4 unwaged. Contact Gina on 490800 for a booking form or further details. Coffee/tea available after the class

Toothill Community Centre's Annual General Meeting will take place on Fridayl6Juneat 730p.m. in the centre. The centre has been open for five years and new people are desperately needed to be involved in the way it is run in the coming year. Residents of Toothill who want to know more about the centre or have views on how it should be run are invited to attend the meeting.

Young People and adults needed to launch youth project - meeting called A public meeting is being held on Monday 5 June to discuss the future of Toothill Youth Club building at Toothill Farm site. It will be held in the Youth Club, Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive at 7.30p.m. It is hoped that a committee can be formed to make decisions about the re-furbishment and use of the building by young people across West Swindon. Anyone in West Swindon is welcome to attend this meeting and it is open to people of any age.

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HERON HOMEBUYER PLAN £2,000 help towards estate agent's. solicitor's fees etc. PLUS A bonus of up to £8,250 for an exchange within 4 weeks. A bonus of up to £6,600 for an exchange within 6 weeks. A bonus of up to £3,300 for an exchange within 8 weeks. A bonus of up to £1,650 for an exchange within 10 weeks.

So exchange within 4 weeks, and with your £2,000 purchase expenses you'll receive a total of Y9,750. Just think - it could pay for a house full of new furniture. We also give you lots of help if you have to sell an existing home. We'll arrange estate agents, a solicitor. . . everything to make sure you move faster!

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6 Wright Planning Services Building Plans prepared, Planning & Building Regulation Approval obtained "All the headaches taken out of your hands."

All work undertaken by fully qualified engineer. Telephone Steve Wright on Swindon 871553

Facechoice Pharmacy

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Smile Pub to cater for the family Janice Baxter reports on the efforts of a local dentist to help us look good

On Wednesday evening 17 May, local dentists Brendan Ball and Associates held an open evening in conjunction with National Smile Week, a campaign organised by the British Dental Health Foundation. The object of the campaign is to make people more aware that 'your smile is one of your most precious assets' and to encourage people to visit their dentist regularly. "We were pleased by how many people came to the open evening," said Practice Manager Jenny Harrison. "Our aim was to dispel the fear that many people still have of the dentist and to stress that prevention is less costly than cure." The extension will be built on the Below: Jenny Harrison is pictured right with Brendan Ball, Marilyn Orcherton from Denplan and the Evening Advertiser's Shirley Mathias

left of the picture

Credit Union official launch Freshbrook Credit Union is holding its Inaugural General Meeting on 20 June at 8p.m. at Freshbrook Community Centre. Refreshments will be served. Freshbrook Credit Union is now registered and able to offer loans to anyone saving regularly for 3 months. Come and find out how a credit union offers a good way of saving moneyand a cheap way of lending money to its members.

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226

Opening Times: Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm; 2.115pm - 7pm Saturday 9am 1 2.3Opm

Village Group's 9th Annual General Meeting on 21 June

Regal Windows.

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Why spend your holidays or free time up ladders painting windows or doors that are draughty, ill-fitting and have probably seen better days? We are a local company that manufacture windows, doors and conservatories in uPVC or Aluminium at our factory on the Hawksworth Trading Estate in Swindon. • We are members of the Glass & Glazing Federation • We don't take deposits. (payment is made on completion). GGF • We give a 10 year Guarantee. (Transferrable). • We also insure our Guarantee for 10 years. (Transferrable) • Our fitters are trained by us and only work for us. (not sub-contract).

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Let Bob Mason, your local Representative give you a friendly, no obligation quotation and say goodbye to those wasted hours. Telephone: Swindon 881910 (evenings), Swindon 618138 (daytIme) and ask for BOB MASON

Freshbrook's public house, The Cornflower, will soon receive a complete internal face-lift which is set to change its character. A planning application will be heard byThamesdown Council's Planning Committee on 5 June. A conservatory 'family room' to be built in an unused part of the grounds and the creation of two seperate bars are proposed. The Cornflower was built with one bar serving a variety of area's within a large open plan room. It would appear that the owner's Whitbread have recognised the success of the two bar Village Inn at Shaw and are going to respond to the community's need for places where children can be taken. The inclusion of a comfortable lounge bar with family room will be welcomed by the many parents living in West Swindon who want to visit a pub with their children. A spokesman for Whitbread Severn Inns told The Link, "We would rather comment after the application has been heard by the planning authority before saying anything about our proposals." An officer recommendation to the planning committee says that there may be some extra car parking problems created by the application but the change of emphasis to cater for the family will be of benefit to the community.

by Janice Baxter

• The Cornflower opened in

The Annual General Meeting of the Freshbrook Village Group will be held at the Freshbrook Community Centre on Wednesday 21 June at 8.00p.m. All residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park are invited to attend. Cheese and Wine will be served. The Guest Speaker for the evening is being arranged. The centre is available for hire for a variety of activities, within reason. So, if you have any ideas why not discuss them at the meeting. Also on the agenda will be the election of committee members. It is important the residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park attend. The Community Centre is there for the residents and at present is not being used to its full potential. Discussions will be held to make residents more aware of this and to try and encourage them to make full use of their Centre.

October1982. The LinkMaga zinc ran a competition for Whitbread in May of that year to find a name for the new pub. Mr. Ernest Kimber of Beverley, Toothill won himself 576 cans (a barrel) of beer. He said that he had walked the fields where Toothill and Freshbrook were being built when he was a boy and the cornflower was a common sight.

To Advertise in The Link telephone Elizabeth Wood on 871793

Freshbrook School Summer Fay re Saturday 1 July 2p. m. G WR Majorettes, Bouncing Castle, Pony Rides, Stalls and Tom bolas, Refreshments, Sideshows and much more. Fun for all the family.

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WESTLEA

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Westlea School Summer Fun Day 24 June

Kerry Gray Childrens Wear Party Plan with Chainstore Bargains. Have a party in your own home and receive 100/c commission.

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&40SC&#0&#0V AND LEISURE CLUB "Come and be part of our success" Weekend Break Host/ess Many families these days are taking the opportunity to enjoy the occasional weekend away from home. Our aim at the Blunsdon House Hotel is to make their stay as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Recognising this, we have created a new position which will involve greeting Weekend Break guests on arrival, checking dining arrangements or any special requirements and informing guests of the Hotels facilities and local tourist attractions. The Host/ess will also be working with children, arranging competitions, games and video shows as well as organizing babyminding when the need arises. Excellent organisational abilities and past experience in working with children are essential. The hours will be as follows: Friday: 12.00 noon - 9.00p.m. Saturday: 8.00a.m. - 9.00p.m. (with possible extended mid-day break) Sunday: 8.00a.m, - 12 noon If you think you have the necessary qualities to carry out this varied position effectively either phone for an application form on 721 701 ext. 127 or apply in writing to: Geoffrey Gleed, Blunsdon House Hotel. Blunsdon, Swindon, SN2 4A0. BLUNSDON . SWINDON S WILTSHIRE . SN2 4AD S TEL: 0793 721701 S AA * * * * RAC

9a.m. Inter School Netball and Football Tournament 1p.m. Fete Opens Attractions include: Family It's a knock Out, Territorial Army Display, Assault Course, Bouncy Castle, Pony Rides, Strawberries and Cream, Floral Art Show, Craft Show. 4p.m. Auction of Items and Services.

Blooming good effort The grounds of Westlea School are beginning to bloom with the hard work of parents, children and staff. Great effort is being made to turn the land around the school building into a haven for wildlife and a source of study for the pupils. Several different types of environment are being created and most of the ideas have been put forward by the children, accordingto Headteacher Neil Griffiths. "A number of different 'gardens' have been made. We have a wild flower and meadow area, a heather, a herb and a rose garden and there will be will be hanging baskets around the school. We also hope to have a greenhouse soon. "The biggest project is the construction of the school pond by a band of parents who put in a huge amount of work over a weekend to dig out a boggy patch. Thamesdown Council's Landscape Department have given us a lot of advice and have worked out how the pond can be lined so that the water is retained. The Council have also donated trees and plants.

"In fact, many people havebeen helpful. The parents have worked hard, the Friends of Westlea School have purchased many more plants and one parent generously donated enough money to buy six benches. Westlea Playgroup who meet in the Community Room next door donated ÂŁ50 as well." Pupil Peter Greenhalgh said he enjoyed his weekend digging the pond with the grown-ups in the Easter holidays. Suzie Pearson said, "A man from the Council came and told us what the pond will be like when it is filled. It will be good to see water in it." Hayley Burkitt said the wildlife area will attract many different insects, butterflys and slugs. Mr. Griffiths sees the gardens serving a very useful role around the school. "Science is an important subject in the National Curriculum and having so many different environments will be good for the children's studies." Pictured below by the pond rock garden, left to right, Andrew Benson, Peter Greenhalgh., Suzze Pearson, Hailey Burkitt

Swim for books Youngsters from Westlea School raised over ÂŁ1,000 on two mornings in May. As part of their regular Thursday and Friday swimming classes at the Link Centre and at Nythe Primary School, they had the chance to swim or wade across the pool and be for sponsored for It. ..Our aim was to raise enough money to Improve our stock of books," explained Headteacher Neil Griffiths. "I believe its Important to have a wide selection of reading material available to the children and we wanted to enhance the provision made normally by the authority. I am more than pleased by the support from parents. They and the children did extremely well. Many thanks to everybody."

SHAW

Aspiring to higher things

Shaw Residents Association Mary Case, chair of the Association, reports on the last meeting of the Executive Committee

Shaw Church took a step closer to completion when a spire was hoisted into position high above Shaw Village Centre. The spire faced in cedar shingles will be topped by across when it is secured into position. Although the church was dedicated at a ceremony in early March, a dispute with the planning authority held up the erection of the spire. Eventually the problem was resolved when Rev. Keith Boxall sketched an idea on the back of an envelope which turned out to be acceptable. Fellow team minister Rev. Helen Drummond said people would see the spire on the church from a long way off. "We've had an increase in the congregation since the church opened and recently baptised our first adult by full immersion in the baptistry. There are now three Sunday School classes and a creche. "The church is also proving itself as a community centre. We have parent and toddler groups, a clinic, fitness class and other groups using the hail."

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At the May meeting of Shaw 'l I: 1.1 - V [s'X(TIWII k,111610P,*A IV* Residents Association committee concern was once again expressed Cut/Blow Dry from over Cartwright Drive. The Perm C/BD from £10.00 Inc. number of bends in the road, £22.50 Inc. together with numerous parked cars make crossing the road dangerous particularly for Blunsdon parents trying to get to Brookfield Woodshaw School. After lengthy discussion Village Centre House Hotel it was decided to delay any rn. Tel: 721701 further action until after the main Tel: 854653 road from Roughmoor Way to Sparcells was opened in the hope that this would ease the traffic on STORM Cartwright Drive. MANAGEMENT SERVICES The Chair reported on the progress of the new bungalows the right choice! for the mentally handicapped now nearing completion on WE HAVE THE JOBS! WHERE ARE THE PEOPLE! Angus Close. It was decided to We have numerous temporary vacancies available to hard working invite Mike Baskett, Community reliable people who wish to earn some money. Development Officer for Birderop Secretarial, Administrative, Clerical, Warehouse and Technical. Hospital to attend the next These positions would be suitable for school leavers, mums wishing to get meeting on Tuesday 13 June at 7.45p.m. at the New Shaw back to work, students, unemployed, more mature people, part-time or full time. Church at Shaw Village Centre. Contact Sue Rawlins on 481301 for more information. He will show a video of units (Our service Is absolutely free) similar to those at Angus Close and will answer questions from 27 Commercial Road, Swindon, Wilts. Tel: (0793) 481301 the floor. Residents from Middleleaze, Below: Reverend s Keith Boxall and Helen Drummond in front of Shaw who also attended the meeting, expressed their dismay over the Church as the spire is positioned withdrawal of the No 3 bus and SHAW VILLAGE the restriction of all other buses CENTRE serving the Shaw area following the recent alteration by RAMLEAZE DRIVE Thamesdown Transport to the SHAW bus times and routes. Their concern was echoed by residents TEL: 886076 from other areas and it was (MissDISPENSING D. Collet, B. Pharm.) decided to invite a member of Thamesdown Transport to answer questions regarding this matter at the next meeting. A member of Thamesdown Transport will be available for questioning after Mike Baskett's presentation at the next meeting. We would welcome residents from throughout the area at this meeting.

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Shaw Residents Association Open Meeting Shaw Church Shaw Village Centre Tuesday 13 June 7.45p.m. •Guests: Mike Baskett - a talk and video about the bungalows for the handicapped In Angus Close •A member of Thamesdown Transport answering questions about bus times and routes serving Shaw

N.H.S. DISPENSING PREGNANCY TESTING PATIENT ADVICE & COUNSELLING OPENING TIMES

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FOR WOMEN Women beware

10

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Toothill Neighbourhood Worker Lucie Hartley recounts a scary experience she had recently.

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I was driving down to Bath late one evening a couple of weeks ago. Normally I take the back route after the Chippenham turn off but this time I took the motorway. A few miles after the junction to my horror, my car broke down. To add to my growing fear the emergency telephone I had stopped at was broken, so were the next two each a mile further on. As this was past midnight and the traffic wasn't heavy, I crossed the motorway and tried another 3 'phones. None worked. I didn't feel safe just sitting in the car waiting for help. Anyone might have stopped. I decided to walk to the service station a few miles back. On the way I came across a car stopped on the hard shoulder. Not knowing why they had stopped I was very fightened. I tried to flag someone down to get help but nobody stopped, although many flashed their lights at me. However as I got closer to the car I saw there were two cars and decided it was safe to approach them. One had broken down and the driver of the other had stopped to help. He drove us both to the service station where I called an RAC patrol who took me back to my car. When we arrived the police were by my car and were searching the bushes by the side of the road. They had established that the owner was a woman and were looking for her. The policeman were very helpful, but said they had not been told that the emergency telephones were broken. When they radioed motorway control, the message came back to say that they knew that the 'phone receiver had been picked up two hours previously. Unfortunately they had not seen fit to ask a patrol to investigate. I am writing to the police to complain about the vunerable and potentially very dangerous position I was put in because this was not investigated and because the phones were not working in the first place. Women are often advised to wait for help in the car, but it was over an hour before the police arrived and anything could have happened in this time. In the meantime, its worth other people knowing that every three telephones on both sides on the motorway are connected to the same line. If that line isn't working the next one should be. I would also ask drivers seeing somebody broken down to let the police know especially those with car 'phones. And for women drivers, make sure you have a torch in the car and a sign already painted saying in big letters, 'I need help. Please call the police.' I eventually got to Bath at 4a.m. Its not a night I want to repeat.

Of fruit, veg & city finance Elizabeth Wood writes an open letter to the Gateway Corporation

Dear Gateway I am writing to you to try and find out what you are up to. You have spent thelast year tearing the West Swindon store to pieces and putting it back together again and goodness knows how much money adding green twiddly bits to the outside, (very fetching but couldn't you have found a better use for the money - staff training perhaps?). Now we hear you are under threat from city financiers who want to buy you out and propose to sell all your superstores to Asda. Didn't I notice some pin-striped gents inspecting 'the property' a few weeks ago. Were they on your side, or the opposition's? If the others get it, is the West Swindon store going to have another facelift to stop it looking like a Gateway shop and help it look like an Asda? And then of course there is the little matter of the rest of West Swindon town centre. You own it all don't you? Will it all be sold off to Asda, or are you keeping the rest for yourselves? And how is this going to affect us - the people who have to use the centre. Ever since the centre was built we have been denied choice - the choice of buying our sprouts from a greengrocer, or bread from a baker, or cheese from a deli. You stopped us having that choice in West Swindon. You wanted us all to wheel our trolleys round your superstore, hoping to seduce us into buying rolls of wallpaper and garden chairs when we'd only popped out for a cauliflower and a large white sliced. You hid the baskets so that we had to use a huge trolley, and you gave us Quick Tills so slow that you could write a novel waiting in the queue! The last time a shop in the centre changed hands we held our breath and hoped for something useful. What did we get? An insurance broker. Now charlie Brown is on the move. What are we going to get next? Peanuts? I thought this was supposed to be the age of market forces controlled by consumer choice. Fat chance in West Swindon when the town centre which serves ten thousand households is in the hands of one retailer. So come on Gateway, how about some answers. Are you selling our town centre? And how much of it are you selling? And if you are not selling, don't you think its time you had another think about the way you are running it? Yours in bewilderment

Elizabeth Wood

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RECREATION Spring half-term at the DUNCAN Delta Tennis Centre SELF DRIVE HIRE Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Vans Lutons -Estates Cars & Mini Bus 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret Swindon

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Wimbledon is just afew weeks away. The Delta is just a short distance.

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Anya Kent writes: The Delta Tennis Centre is now open to the public so do go along and have a look around. There ia no admission or membership fee so 'be nosy' take a look at the facilities, enjoy a drink in the bar, 'The Umpires Chair' which is open to the public whether or not you are playing tennis. If you have any free time over the Spring half term holiday come and join one of our many tennis sessions. If you haven't played tennis before this is an ideal opportunity to try without feeling self-conscious. Our friendly staff are there to help and advise - and make your visit to the Tennis Centre an enjoyable one. If you don't have a tennis partner come along anyway and we will provide the equipment, a coach to organize play, plus a playing partner of similar ability. Choose a session to suit your needs.

FORA MORE PERSONAL SERVICE 0793 -20123

RONALD H. LAWTON Swindon's first independent practising

LICENSED CONVEYANCER Fully qualified to provide the same service as a conveyancing solicitor

Evergreen Tennis Date: Wednesday 31 May. Time: 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. Cost: £1.50 Especially for those older in years but young at heart. Enjoyafreedrink while relaxing with friends at the end of the session. Ladies Tennis Date: Thursday 1 June. Time: 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. Cost: £1.50 Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in which to play tennis with friends. Enjoy a free drink together at the end of the session. There will be a creche available for 2-5 year olds. Delta Tennis Date: Friday 2 June. Time: 9.30a.m.11.30a.m. Cost: £1.50 Open to everyone! Come along and play tennis, meet new friends and have fun at the same time. Enjoy a free drink at the end of the session. Junior Tennis Date: Wednesday 31 May - Friday 2 June. Cost: 85p 5-10 yrs 1.30p.m.-3.p.m. 11-16 yrs 3p.m.-4.30p.m. Our junior tennis sessions aim to combine coaching with the fun aspects of tennis. For further details please telephone 871111.

HERE TO HELP YOU IN BUYING OR SELLING A HOUSE

a TENNIS CENTRE The Delta Tennis Centre is now open o No admission fee! o No membership fee! o No club fee! Superb catering facilities to the non-tennis playing public including a lunchtime and evening Bar.

Book an indoor or outdoor court and gain free racket hire when you present this advertisement.

Trawlerman sponsors 6 a-side competition There are a few places left to enter teams into a newannual 6 a-side football tournament to take place in West Swindon. The competition, which is being sponsored by The Trawlerman takeaway at West Swindon Centre, is being organised by Steve O'Sullivan, Recreation Director at Greendown Community School. It takes place on Saturday 24 June from 9a.m. to 1p.m. at Greendown. There are places for teams of under 15 players and adults (18+). If you have a team ready to enter, contact Steve on 874224 during school hours to see if there are any places left.

Out of the Deep End?

The Link Centre Swimming Pool will in the pool which will prevent the be closed during the period Tuesday temperature from dropping. The changing rooms will also be 13 June to 23June due to maintenance the recipients of some tender loving requirements. The Link Centre Technical Team care! The Link Centre apologises for any will be working hard during this ten day period to ensure that your future inconvenience caused during this visits to the pool will be more period, but we hope that you will appreciate the changes on your return comfortable and enjoyable. The most noticeable change will visits to the pool. be the installation of an extra heater

Delta Tennis Centre Delta Business Park, Great Wetern Way, Swindon Tel: 871111

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'Come One, Come All It's Midsummer Madness at West Swindon's Community Picnic A grand get together for everybody who lives in the west Sunday 25 June, 1 2noon - 3p.m. Southleaze Sheep Farm Attractions: A Star Football match with surprise celebrities Midsummer Madness Fancy Hat Competition - make a mad hat and win a prize Jacko the Clown, Bouncing Castle Refreshments, Games of rounders Bring your own picnic lunch & games GTeat \.JeSterI' ' Car park available ay Use of a barn in case of rain

South!eaze Farm

Pirates Island at The Oasis Centre Soft play park provides a safe place for young pirates

Things will never be the same at the Oasis Leisure Centre, the Pirates have moved in and taken over a Desert Island at the Centre and turned it into the biggest adventure Play Park in Swindon. The Pirates Ship is moored in the Centre off the island and children can explore their amazing vessel. Around the ship there are many other great features for the 0 to 10 year old child, this includes the Under 5's area, inflatables, a ball pond and walkthe plank over a shark infested sea. Pirate Island also

has lots of foam shapes that children can play on and create their own fantasy with. All children under 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult but they can stay for as long as they like after paying the £1 admission fee. Adults accompanying 25p admission charge. Pirate Island will be open from 11a.m. to 7p.m. daily to the end of the summer. For more details contact Piers Harold on 33404/5/6.

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OASIS LEISURE CENTRE NORTH STAR AVENUE SWINDON TEL: (0793) 33404 OPENING TIMES CENTRE OPENS 10a.m. WEEKDAYS 9a.m. SAT/SUN POOL OPENS 12 NOON WEEKDAYS 10a.m. WEEKENDS 8e SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

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14

DAY IN THE LIFE

Going for the top

As Swindon Town Football Club challenge for a place in the First Division, for the first time in their history, Phil King, the team's youngest first team player who lives in Freshbrook, descibes what it's like to be a professional footballer.

Jo and I take it in turns to get up early to look after Jade, our daughter who is two and a half - usually 715a.m. on the dot. I go downstairs, get her breakfast, turn on the TV for her and drop-off again on the sofa. If its a match day I'll stay in bed longer to rest up, but on training days I have to be at the County Ground by 1030a.m. We start off with warm-up exercises then move onto stamina work. Some days we're sent out on a long run to the Post House Hotel and back, other days we concentrate on sprinting and speed work. Then we'll play

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5 a-side games, fun games and at the end of training we'll work on skills like crossing or shooting that need to be improved, or specific moves which we'll use in games. We also run through defensive situations, especially if we were caught by them in the last game. Training finishes at 1p.m. but players can stay on for strength exercises, workout on the weights or a sauna. After a relaxing bath, I'm home for lunch and the rest of the day with Jo and Jade. We go shopping or take a walk to one of the play areas doseby. I like to keep in touch with the fans and I'm pleased to talk to anybody in the street if I'm recognised. And if the Dub is asked to send a player along to an event, I'll go if I can. On match days I try to relax and get myself ready for the game. I'm not one to worry too much but I can feel the tension building up. If we're at home we have to report in by 130p.m. The first touch of the ball is so important; if I do something well early on I can feel the confidence grow and I quickly settle in. If I do something I'm not happy with, like a bad back-pass to the goalkeeper, it unsettles me and I have to really concentrate on getting the next move right.

Some games are a dream. Putting in the winning goal against Shrewsbury on I May was fantastic. I had put a couple over the bar from similar positions earlier in the season, but driving in the match winner to help us towards the play-offs was good. I don't get the goal that often, but when I do it's great. Its a nice feeling when we win, the atmosphere from the fans and in the dressing room is tremendous. When we loose I just want to be by myself. I think about what went wrong, the moves I was involved with, whether I had trained too hard, ate the wrong food, and all the other things to try and explain why. If the team has worked hard by running for each other, closing players down and keeping the pressure on and given all, then we don't feel so bad. But if we've been lazy and the other team has been allowed to do well, then we get a good talking to after the game and we deserve it.

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Choose Us First For the Best Quality Take Home Food Available Fried Freshly For You Cod, Plaice, Haddock, Skate, Huss, Scampi, Chips, Various Pies, Sausages and Chicken. Why not try one of our delicious Curries for a change? Have you had one of our big beefburgers? They're Great. Open Monday - Saturday 11.30am - 2pm; 4.30pm - 11pm Car Park 'A'WestSwindon Centre TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME - 870455

Phil in triumph after scoring the match winning goal against Shrewsbury in early May which put the Town into the play-offs (photo by Richard VRntte ,Catyx)

and if I worked harder I might move into the First Division. I spent a week at Tottenham last year and they and Coventry City have shown interest in me this season. I think I'm an easy going person by nature and its hard to dedicate every bit of effort to improving my abilities. I wasn't pushed into playing

Jo and Phil King relax with Jade in their Freshbrook garden

I feel alright straight after the game but at home my legs feel really brusied, stiff and very sore. I can't get to sleep for hours, so I watch TV or football recorded during the week. Most other evenings are quiet watching television with Jo or visiting friends. On Wednesdays I go to Blunsdon Dog Track, but I'm in bed around 10.30p.m. during the season. Before a match I go to bed around ten, and in the pre-season I'm completely exhausted. We just have to run, run and run and then some more. The manager is very keen on fitness and stamina and this certainly pays off. Sometimes we might not be the best at the football, but we'll run other teams off the park. He thinks lam about seven pounds overweight and tells me if I can get it off my stamina would improve. Some players are strict with their diet but I just eat anything. You have to be fit as football is so competitive and I think I need to be fitter to improve my game. John Trollope who played my position for the Town tells me my discipline and attitude let me down I

professionally but I was good at school in Bristol, and from the age of 14, 1 knew I was going to play for a club. I went to Exeter but I wasn't pushed hard enough to get the discipline into me. I came to Swindon Town on loan after a short time at Torquay in early 1987 and its been a good time for me and the Club. Helping the Town into the Second Division that year was great and being part of a team which is close to promotion to the First is very exciting for us and the fans. I can't imagine what I might have been if I hadn't gone straight into football. Obviously I want to stay in the game as long as possible, and afterwards well, we loved Torquay in the few months we were there. Perhaps we might open a guest-house one day

STOP PRESS Women returning to Work. Free Course In Marketing & Management with generous expenses. Call Christine Simons on 024975 - 607 lb

AT YOUR LIBRARY A Source of Useful Information

15 SURECLEAN

Assistant Librarian Rochelle Clarkson says that West Swindon's Library has more than books on offer This month Linda is having a rest from journalism and giving me a chance to test the literary waters again. If you've recently moved into the area from outside Wiltshire, you're probably interested in exploring your new area. The library can help you in several ways. We display posters for events and places of interest, not only for Swindon but across the whole area. Our local studies section will give you an insight into the history of the area - even those who aren't fascinated by railways will find something to interest them. We also have books on local sights and landmarks. Although we cannot provide the full range of tourist information we do have a supply of leaflets on many of the places of interest in the county. Please ask at the enquiry desk for information on specific places - or just to have a browse through what's available. The leaflets are free and can provide good ideas for family days out, whatever your interests. In addition we have free maps of the town centre to help you find your way around. June Events The Swindon Society Exhibition continues until 7 June and gives a fascinating view of the town as it used to be. 24 June sees the start of the Area Museum Council's exhibition, 'The Ice Age'. This exhibition was originally prepared for the Norfolk Museum Service and is showing what Britain was like during the Ice Age, it also shows what a Stone Age settlement was like, with examples of the type of flint tools they used there. Altogether well worth a visit! New Temptations Connie Monk: Rachel's Way (Piatkus). A romantic saga set in Cornwall against a backdrop of the 1870's coppermines. An outside couple put down roots in the local village and weather the ups and downs of life. Alan Schoefield: The Lost Giants (Hamish Hamilton). A plucky Scots girl makes a new life for herself in 1860's Colorado, facing many trials before eventually returning to Britain. Diana Mills: Reapers of the Wind (Severn House). Set in Argentina, this is the story of a man struggling to keep his land and his family against political and emotional odds. Two books for sea-lovers now - in Peter Tonkin's 'The Coffin Ship' (Headline) a retired captain takes over command of an oil tanker, not knowing that there is a time-bomb on board.

Douglas Reeman's new adventure yarn The Whiteguns (Heinneman) is set in 1945. A gunboat captain faces the task of dealing with defeated Germans at a Naval Base. An interesting angle on a war story. The book with the most eyecatching cover this month is Midnight by Dean R. Koontz (Headline). In the classic horror mold, four strangers are drawn together over a series of inexplicable deaths in a picturesque coastal town. Not for the weak at heart! Alfred Coppel: A Land of Mirrors

(Methuen). This Labyrinthine thriller has the kidnapping of a young girl, a husband back from the dead and a gang of terrorists combined in a fast moving continent-crossing plot. In A. Findlay Johnson's first novel Children of Disobedience (Deutsch) a young man temporarily escapes commitment by taking a job on a remote Hebridean island. He has to come terms with the realities of crofting life, and also with overpowering love. Good reading! More new titles next month.

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Contact us for all your legal needs including house sales & purchases, matrimonial matters and criminal law. 103-4 Commercial Road, Swindon. Tel: 617617

TUITION ON PIANO, ORGAN, KEYBOARDS Children prepared for Associated Board, Trinity College & G.S.C.E. Exams. Courses in Popular Music for Adults.

Paul Issitt F.R.C.O., F.L.C.M. Westlea Tel: Swindon 873577

Guitar Tuition 1 to 1 Tuition by Professional Guitar Tutor Beginners to Diploma Standard Contact Bernard Tanner The Shaftesbury Centre Percy Street (off Rodbourne Road)

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Monday 19 to Saturday 24 June 7.30pm Saturday 4.30pm & 8.00pm

Richard Todd in

The Business of

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Three people are cunningly drawn together - a Cockney copper, a neurotic crime reporter and a shifty character called Stone. Why are they there and what do they all have in common?... the most ingenious murder for a decade Daily Mail

+++++++++ Thursday 13 to Saturday th 15 July & Tuesday 18 to 5e oWrjS'ri. Thursday 20 July 7.30pm The Wyvern Theatre PIA1Y. of Community Drama IgIAN MO!4b)4 Company present ;:,- qgcd/3

A play with music for the whole family

What's on at Link Arts Whales & Rebels at the Studios in June Arts Centre, Old Town The Arts Centre in Devizes Road has two remarkable shows in June. On Thursday 1st, 730p.m. ROY HUTCHINS appears in his one man show 'WHALE NATION', a dramatic performance of Heathcote Willaims' spell-binding poem. Possibly the best one-man show you Friday 2 June 8p.m. T.N.T. in THE WIZARD OF will ever see - don't miss it. Tickets JAZZ - A bar room black comedy £4.00/3.00 concessions with REAL jazz! In a Welshpub on the eve of D-Day the landlord From Wednesday 7th to Saturday encounters a jazz quartet of 10th, 730p.m. 'CAPTAIN SWING' by Peter Whelan, a play about Undeserters more interested in violence, set in rural England in 1830. sailing to New York than A Sussex wheelwright, urged to lead Normandy. They try to convert his village in revolt, refuses and places him to their rainbow's end vision his faith in the newly elected village of America - with disastrous democracy... but he is opposed by a results! 'Unusual, entertaining, militant radical, goaded by a servant witty and stylised' - THE girl turned soldier and over all hangs GUARDIAN. A dynamic piece the shadowy presence of CAPTAIN of JAZZ THEATRE, featuring SWING - 'the people's avenger' GARY BOYLE. Tickets £3.50! Tickets £3.00/2.00 concessions. Sponsored by NALGO. For further £2.50 concessions. details or to book seats, telephone 614837. Saturday 3 June 8p.m. Heavy rock with BARDICHE and GRIM DEATH. Thursday 1 June 8p.m. AXEL ZWINGENBERGER-one of the best exponents of BoogieWoogiepiano style. Tickets £3.50/2.50/1 .00 concessions

Thursday 8 June 7.30p.m. FILM: 'I'VE HEARD THE MERMAIDS SINGING' (15) Patricia Rozema's hugely enjoyable directorial debut stars Sheila McCarthy as Polly, a scatterbrained temp who gets a job in Toronto Art Gallery, develops a crush or. her (female) boss and unwittingly becomes involved in an art fraud. 'Magically effective.. Polly is an Annie Hall for the eighties'- THE FACE. 'Touching, hilarious, as fresh as a summer breeze' -TIME OUT Membership £1.00 + Admission £1 .75/ 1 .25 concessions. Friday 9 June 8p.m. A benefit concert for Ocotal in Nicaragua featuring DAVE LIPPMAN. Political folk - 'a counter-intelligent cabaret'. Tickets: £3.00/2.00 concessions. Saturday 10 June 8p.m. THE VIBRATORS plus L.A. ROSES Thursday 22 June 730p.m. Film: 'A WORLD APART' (PG) A film about anti-apartheid and the harsh realities of South African life as seen through the eyes of a 13 year old white girl. Barbara Hershey, Jodhi May and David Suchet star. Saturday 24 June 230p.m. Film: 'BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED' (PG) Children's Film Club Membership 25 Admission £1.0 For further information on the above events ring Clarry Bean at Link Arts Studion on 871212.

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An ingenious 'Who dunnit'

The West End comes to The Wyvern When The Business of Murder opened in London 1981 the reviews it received had not been seen foryears. Written by award winning writer Richard Harris it was referred to as the most ingenious murder mystery for a decade. Along with The Mousetrap' and musical hits like 'Cats' and Starlight Express,' The Business of Murder has become a must for tourists and has now clocked up over 3,000 performances. A bold stroke of scheduling has now enabled film star Richard Todd to repeat his starring role when the play takes a 6 month departure from its record breaking run in the West End, to embark on a provincial tour- with its West EndCompany intact. Co-starring with Richard Todd are two of Britain's favourite television faces - Peter Byrne, remember him as Andy Crawford in 'Dixon of Dock Green,' and Sandra Payne, well known for her roles in such soaps as 'Triangle' and 'Newcomers.' 'The Business of Murder' will keep you on the edge of your seat with intricate twists and turns in the plot and just as you've guessed who did it, another unexpected event takes place. It'll keep you guessing until the tight, climactic ending at once neat and very, very messy.

17 EDUCATION MATTERS The Law and Sex Education VINCENTS in Schools SELF DRIVE HIRE LTD. Last month The Link looked at the place of religion in schools.

Taking up another hot subject Glinys Weller, head of the School of Personal Development at Greendown considers what schools are expected to do about sex education In 1986 Her Majesty's Inspectorate published a report: Health Education 5 -16. Paragraph 44 states: The importance of sexual relationships in all our lives is such that sex education is a crucial part of preparing children for their lives now and in the future as adults and parents." Most senior schools agree with the inspectors and prepare courses of study for pupils covering a wide range of topics relating to sexual matters. These include biological functions of the human sexual organs, pregnancy and birth. Information on contraception and sexually transmitted diseases is often made available. Pupils might also be given opportunities to explore issues such as abortion and they will probably be expected to think about family life and family relationships. The courses usually aim to encourage responsible behaviour and attitudes and the development of self respect. Schools vary in the way they design programmes. Some will use science or biology lessons others will use religious studies or social education lessons. The age at which pupils are introduced to the topics will also vary from school to school. A wide choice of video material and information packs is available from local health education units. Most LEA's publish guidelines for teachers to follow and some employ special expert teachers to go around and advise the local schools on how best to work in this area. Many schools invite members of the local medical profession and family planning personnel to speak to groups of pupils. Who is responsible for what Is taught?

Not the teachers, not the headteacher, nor even the LEA. The 1986 Education Act places responsibility on school governors for determining what sex education should be offered in their schools. In fact the governors are at liberty to decide that sex education should not be part of the curriculum. At Greendown a course of study was planned in consultation with the parents of the present 3rd year. The governors debated the final draft and it was adopted as the

school policy. The same Act also states that the LEA, the governing body and the headteacher should take steps to make sure that sex education is delivered in such a manner as to encourage pupils to have due regard to moral considerations and family life. There is need for teachers to be very sensitive when discussing the latter since not all pupils come from homes with a happily married mother and father at the helm. For that reason a neutral stance is often adopted by teachers but the importance of trust, care and responsibility in sexual relations should always be stressed. Can parents withdraw their children from sex education classes?

Parents have no legal right to withdraw their children from such classes. An amendment to the 1986 Education Bill seeking to give parents the statutory right to do so was heavily defeated. However in practice many schools inform parents when sex education is taking place and are willing to discuss with parents any concerns they may have. Most schools are willing to give individual parents the right to withdraw their child. When a school will not grant this right the parents may appeal directly to the governing body who have the legal right to overrule the headteacher. It is interesting to note that the National Curriculum specifies a range of biological functions to be understood by 11 year olds. Some of these would be covered by the general umbrella of sex education. Neither schools nor governors can overrule the national curriculum. When the implications of this are realised by parents who feel strongly about these issues there could be some interesting test cases.

Oliver Tomkins CE Aided School Parents of children attending Oliver Tomkins Infants and Junior Schools are invited to attend a meeting to discuss the Governors Annual Report which has been produced in accordance with the Education Act 1986. The meeting will take place on Tuesday 6 June, 8p.m. in the Junior School Hall.

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Alton Towers bound thanks to Heron Homes A lucky West Swindon family will be spending a day at Alton Towers, the country's largest theme park, thanks to Heron Homes who are developing a range of houses at The Hawthorns, just north of Nine Elms. Heron ran a competition exclusive to readers of The Link in April. Readers were asked to visit The Hawthorns showhomes and answer a number of questions based on them. Winner Virginia Winton, from Grange Park, said she had been surprised and delighted to be told that she had won the first prize. "Honestly, I've never won anything. A day out at Alton Towers was the attraction for visiting the showhomes and we are interested in one of the houses. They are very pleasant, but we've decided to stay where we are for the time being. "The trip on 30 June will be a birthday treat for Holly and Luke." The Winton family received a cheque for £60 to cover entrance to the park, travel and spending money. Jeremy Comley, Heron Homes' Regional Marketing Manager

Jeremy Comley with Mrs. Winton and her son Luke and on the left runners up Jane and Cherry Dugan

said he was pleased with the response from Link readers. 'The competition proved as successful as The Hawthorns has been since we opened some months ago. Mrs. Winton's tie break slogan of 'Heron Homes are better because the entrance is light, airy and spacious, plus there is an excellent overall finish throughout' won her the prize "Our West Swindon site continues to attract a great deal of interest. We have introduced a new Homebuyer Plan to help people move and this will carry a bonus of up to E9,750. Full details are available from The Hawthorns sales centre."

'Operation eyesore' was the slogan for 1989's Environment Week at the end of April. Three events went on in the Freshbrook area during that week. • Opening of a bottle bank at the Village Centre • Waste paper skip at Freshbrook School • Construction of a community compost tip in Greendowix Copse Local Councillor Bob Pixton commented, "It would to easy to count the number of bottles, weight of paper collected or height of the compost tip and to take this as a measure of success. These are important, but it is the changing attitude of people to their environment that is more important. It's often said that we live in a 'throw away age,' but there's only one earth and that definitely isn't throw away. The sooner people realise that their every day activity will make or break this planet the sooner they are able to take steps to make this planet a safe place for them, their parents and their children to live on."

What is to be done about Dogs? Thamesdown council will be debating dogs In June and Bob Pixton wants to hear from both West Swindon dog owners and those who do not have them. He and a senior council officer will be in the Community Room, Freshbrook School on 14 June to meet people with something to say. • 7pm for dog owners • 7.30pm for non-dog owners

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PHH, the vehicle management specialists based at Windmill Hill Business Park, are inviting West Swindon community groups to take part in its annual staff fete by putting on fundraising stalls. The fete will be held in the grounds of the PHH Centre and over 1,000 staff, their families and friends are expected to attend. It should be a profitable day for groups who want to arrange a stall. The event takes place from 2p.m. to 5p.m on Saturday 8 July and groups who want to take part should contact Liz Johnson at PHH on 887000.

In last month's Link magazine an incorrect telephone number was printed. We would like to apologise to Mr. King of Shaw for the inconvenience caused by the appearance of his telephone number in an article about Swindon Autoshine. We also apologise to Gordon Harrow of Swindon Autoshine who may have lost somebusiness when callers used the incorrect 'phone number, although the right number appeared in a photograph below the article and in an advertisement on the same page.

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Harmony and Worries A new lunch club for elderly people opened in May and one that has been going for years is desperate for people to use it. The new weekly lunch club, called The Harmony Lunch Club, which meets in the Community Suite at the Link Centre is the result of a joint effort by Martha Parry, Community Activities Officer in the centre and Age Concern development worker Peta Guest. During the planning stages two cooks were found and a team of 14 volunteers has come together. They will work in two shifts, each group preparing the lunch twice a month. The club is serving 40 lunches and this will build up to 60. Whilst the response to The Harmony has been good, there are worries about the lunch club at Toothill Community Centre which has been going for over five years. There is agreement between the two clubs that members can only go to one of them, so that as many people have the chance to attend. However the numbers taking lunch at Toothill have dropped from 50 people to around 30. Any less and the club becomes doubtful financially. The Harmony Lunch Club is full for the time being, but a good, nutritious three course lunch is served every Wednesday, 1215p.m. at Toothill Community Centre. Pensioners who would like to become members are asked to ring Mrs. Wylie on 495644.

19

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Now open at Shaw Village Centre offering take-away and home-delivery servicet

Gordon Harrow, ready to shine up your car Nevertheless Gordon was very pleased by the response to the article and is at the ready to give your car a spruce up. Swindon Autoshine's aim is to get your vehicle into showroom condition, both inside and out. Pressure cleaning of paintwork, wheel arches and engine compartment followed by hand washing, waxing and cleaning of seats and carpets is all part of the service. This can be done wherever the car is - at home or at work. Various levels of service can be provided. Swindon Autoshine can be contacted on 876536.

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20 Juliette looks for help A student living in West Swindon will soon be off to South America to work in apoor community and she is looking for somebody to teach her Portugese and sponsors to help her with the cost. Juliette Smith from Washpooi in Shaw will take her 'A' Levels at Swindon College in July, then depart

NEWS & VIEWS for Brazil in August for a year. She will live with a local family and will teach English to adults and children in a cultural community centre. The chance to go abroad is being made possible by The Project Trust, an educational charity based on the Isle of Coil in the Hebrides which specialises in placing students who have just left school in third world countries. Two students are placed together, but they are expected to become part of the community they

4

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are living in. It costs over £2,600 to place a student and they are expected to contribute £1,850 by sponsorship, fund raising or their own pocket. She has already had to pay over £100 to attend an interview and selection week at the project's headquarters in Scotland. Juliette has been writing to local companies and hopes that they will contribute to her expenses. She would also welcome donations from individual well-wishers. She is beginning to prepare herself for a different life-style. "I realise it's going to be quite a shock to go and live totally in another culture," said Juliette. "The language, the living conditions, the weather is going to be so different and it'll be hard at times, but I'm looking forward to going. I hope I can offer something in return for what I will be learning." Juliette would like to meet anybody who can help her prepare her for her trip. She can be contacted on 772183.

Go-Kart Nick finds a sponsor A local Go-Kart enthusiast has achieved his aim and gained sponsorship from a local company. Nick Clarke of Mears Drive, Shaw, appealed for help in the February edition of The Link and the local manager of insurance brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates came to the rescue. Nick is in his third season of the highly competitive 100cc class. Last season he gained six first places in 30 meetings. This year, since March, he has managed 6 out of 13 firsts. He puts the good results down to a new engine and chassis, and with sponsorship, he is looking forward to keeping ahead of the field.

New guides keep people informed Thamesdown's reputation forhavmg the most comprehensive and interesting range of children's play areas in the country will be enhanced by the publication of a new playground guide book. The glossy, informative, objective and entertaining 48 page full-colour booklet is sure to become wellthumbed by users who now have a comprehensive guide to the 32 major playgrounds listed. A short history and description of the design is given for each play area along with colour photographs. A location map and etails of footpath routes, bus services and car parking are given along with a quality rating by the 'Supercheckers,' a group of eight children aged five to 11 who helped staff from Thamesdown Council's Recreation Services put the booklet together. The booklet has been sponsored by the Sports Council and several suppliers of building materials and play equipment. It will be available in schools and libraries for reference purposes. it is also on sale for £1.75 from various recreation venues around the town and Sherratt & Hughes bookshop in Regent Street. West Swindon's own guide book on facilities, groups and activities for pre-school children isbeingup dated. Sheila Boswell has taken on the voluntary task to update all the information that parents with under 5s need. She is keen to hear from all the community groups in West Swindon concerned with pre-school children to find out if their details are up to date. She would also like to find out the kind of information parents need in such a guide book so that it can be researched. Messages can be left for Sheila at the Community Suite, Link Centre.

Mike Rees hands over his sponsorship cheque to Nick

Mansfield Begbie Associates have been operating in West Swindon for nearly two years. The company are appointed representatives of the Cornhffl Insurance Group, well known for its sponsorship of Test Matches. MBA specialise in mortgages, pensions and general insurance including vehicle, household and accident cover. It has recently reached agreement with one of the country's largest building societies to offer a very advantageous lowstart mortgage scheme. They have three offices in the London area and are presently setting up in Torquay. The three partners have over 45 years experience in the insurance and mortgage business between them, but staying close to the customers is important to them, according to Mike Rees, who lives in Sparcells. "We don't want to become so big that we cannot keep in touch with our existing clientele. We feel our back-up service, which includes a regular newsletter, is second to none. "Having settled with my family in West Swindon, I'm keen to put something back into the community and seeing Nick's appeal for support in The Link seemed an ideal way of helping the smaller individual." Nick is very pleased that sponsorship has been forthcoming. "I've written to so many people and received no reply," he said. "The help from Mansfield Begbie will be invaluable in helping me stay with the leaders." Mike Rees will be pleased to provide friendly financial help and advice. His telephone number is Swindon 873369

HOME & GARDEN Out of Sight Hedge or a fence. Claire Beaton gives some advce At the beginning of May, I enjoyed a Sunday stroll around West Swindon indulging my taste for seeing how other people live with their gardens. Living in the older urban village of Toothill, most of the gardens around my street are crammed with plants of one sort or other. That is, if I can see them. A number of households prefer to hide away behind some kind of barrier and in the 5-10 years these hedges have had time to grow into a green barrier leaving little for the casual passer-by to see. Other gardeners are more generous and have turned their front gardens into luxuriant displays ofshrubsandother flowering plants. In the newer areas of the district there are few houses with such exuberant gardens. It is hard enough settling down in anew home without spending time and money beautifying the garden. For new owners of gardens there is also the problem of knowing where to start. Given a small back garden laid to turf and with fencing that only invites passers-by to peer in to see the washing line, the first temptation is to erect a fence with lapped wood panels in the largest size available or to plant a row of the fastest growing conifers in the garden centre. This may not be such a good idea. The higher the fence (or hedge) is, the more shade it will cast. This will make the garden cold and damp, since it will see no sun, and, perhaps worse, it will appear smaller than ever. For people who like plants, the solution is to grow a side border of the larger shrubs you enjoy looking at. Single specimens of such evergreens as holly (hex), Cherry Laurel (Prunus cerasiferus), Spotted Laurel (Aucuba) or Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanicus), planted at the back of the border will obscure the view from outside. Smaller shrubs like roses, potentillas, spiraea and philadelphus grown in front and among these will give a soft edge to the border and give flowers through the early and mid-summer. Add a few bulbs for the spring and some hardy fuschias for the autumn and your privacy barrier will be attractive in itself. Where there is no room for a six foot border (how about a matching pair with a gravel path to the end of the garden, no lawn!) an

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abbreviated version is possible with a four foot fence topped with two feet of trellis, fewer evergreens and summer shrubs and clematis and ivy to climb in and through the trellis. People who do not like plants can do the same screening trick with fence, trellis and mixed evergreen. The plants above, if planted at least six feet apart, will need little pruning. Certainly they will be far less trouble than a traditional hedge. One final warning. Beware of planting a hedge, or any plant, too close to the pavement or road edge in the front garden. Apart from the hazard to passing pedestrians and any covenant restrictions you agreed to when buying your house, the innocent looking concrete strip that forms the containment for the tarmac is the tip of an iceberg. Lawns struggle to grow, the most vigorous plants are stunted or wither away. Six inches down is an enormous lump of concrete!

* Visit a garden * There are dozens of gardens open during the month eager to show you how beautiful their flowers are. A little more special is the open day at Moredon Nurseries on 4 June on the Cheney Manor Industrial Estate. It's Thamesdown Councils parks department home base, where all the hanging baskets for the Brunel Centre are cultivated and the bedding for Queen's Park and Old Town Gardens grown. A more recent development is an area devoted to community gardening so if you are looking for inspiration or advice, this could be the place to start.

Still time to enter Last month we published an entry form for West Swindon's first ever gardening competition. There is still time to enter but unfortunately we don't know what prizes will be available. The competition is being run by the West Swindon Gardening Club who are still finalizing the prize list. Anyway The Link is offeringelO gift voucher to the best garden which is less than one year old on 1 June. You will find another entry form below, so why not put your garden in for judging. The rules were printed in the May edition of The Link.

21

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WEST SWINDON GARDENING CLUB Invites householders in West Swindon to enter the area's first ever Gardening Competition In June by returning this Entry Form by 15 June to The Link Magazine, (Garden Competition), 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ Name: Address: Telephone: he date you moved into your house

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NEWS & VIEWS

22

Tasty dishes from Toothill The last five years have been successful for Mr. and Mrs. Cheung Kuk Ming, proprietors of the Toothill Chinese Kitchen at Toothill Village Centre and they would like to thank all their customers for their support. The decision to open the takeaway has lived up to their expectations. "We moved here because of the size and the potential; we were right to come," said Mr. Cheung. "The food we serve seems to be popular with our customers because we have many regulars. "We also know that people come over from Shaw, Westlea and Grange Park because we get talking to customers as they wait for the order." The menu at the Toothill Chinese

Mr and Mrs Mrs Cheung getting the chips ready

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Kitchen includes a range of takeaway meals from fish and chips to various curries, and a variety of Chinese dishes. They also have a number of set meals at fixed prices and ten 'chef's recommendations of famous Chinese Two are particularly dishes.' interesting as few other takeaways serve them. The Fried Beef Peking Style combines fried beef, carrot, oyster sauce, garlic and chili to make a succulent, crunchy dish which has a slightly sweet and sour flavour. It's spicy without being too hot. Singapore Chow Mein is a fine rice noodle dish with shrimp, roast pork, egg, green pepper, bean sprouts and chilli. It is a dry, slightly hot dish which is good on its own or with a sauce.

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Disabled Access

School Religion

From Bobbie French, Langstone Way, Westlea. I was most perturbed when reading the Link (April) survey that there was no mention of how the disabled liked living in West Swindon. Do we not have any disabled? Or are they invisible? I was fortunate enough to go with the children, staff and some parents from Westlea School, to see Princess Diana (26 April), when she opened the Delta Tennis Centre. Amongst the children wasa young lady aged 6, who uses a motorised wheelchair - similar to a dodgem. The palaver it involved every time shehadtocrossa road e.g. Langstone Way to Westlea Drive, Moresby Close, Alveston Close etc to get to the Delta Centre was unbelievable. Her mother had to hold her while it took two adults to get the chair across the road because there are no dropped kerbs. Neil Griffiths, the Head of Westlea School, is extremely keen to integrate both handicapped and disabled children into as near a normal school life as possible. This is important both for these children and the children we call 'normal'. The disabled want to help themselves as much as possible. Surely such a small matter as dropped kerbs and access to buildings should be their right. It is not only the disabled who have difficulty. Parents of children needing to use a pram or pushchair are also penalized. Could you through your magazine mount a campaign to make West Swindon "Best in the West"?

From Paul Issitt, Mannington Lane, Westlea. May I have a little space in which to defend the reputation of the Private Schools. I quote from Erica Holley's article (May Link) concerning the 1988 Education Act - 'pupils in private education would benefit more from teaching than praying' also 'children will remain untouched (by religion) in private schools'. As a Director of Music in several Public and Preparatory Schools over the past 30 years I feel that I can speak with some authority. In the private school everyday begins with Hymns, prayers and readings from the scriptures, in most cases in the school Chapel. Then of course, on every Sunday, there will be Matins and Choral Evensong. All the great festivals are observed and very often special choirs of staff and boys participate. I mention one Prep. school (ages 7 to 13) by no means exceptional, where Stainer's Crucifixion was performed at Easter, Faure's Requiem on Remembrance Sunday and Handel's Messiah at Christmas. So much for the Godless Private School! In conclusion, I regard Miss Holley's Greenpeace Tutorials worthy as are the Whales and the Rain Forests! - a very poor substitute for an act of corporate worship. Is there any better start to the day than singing together such splendid hymns as 'He who would valiant be' or '0 Jesus I have promised'? Sadly, most of my private pupils from the State sector have never heard of these.

.J.CTION THE COTSWOLD COLLECTION Probably the best collection of QUALITY PINE FURNITURE in the West Country, at the most competitive prices. Come and see for yourself. Most items are immediately from stock. Credit terms available.

A

The Link 3-5 Playgroup is looking for one full-time and one part-time assistant, from Tuesday to Friday. • Full-time - 9am - 315pm • Part-time - 1 p - 315pm Applications should be made in writing to The Playgroup Chairperson 5 Buie Close, Sparcells by 31 May.

tters to The Li ilk.

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33 Crlcklade Road, Gorse Hill, Swindon. Tel: 511898 Open: Monday to Friday 9.30am - 5pm

Writing these comments has been a mouth watering experience. Reading them should encourage you to visit the Toothill Chinese Kitchen today.

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Editor's note: Ms Holley's article specifically pointed out that private schools are exempt from the requirements of Education Act 1988 as far as religious education is concerned, and it is the children of Government Ministers who will remain untouched by the confusion created by Act.

Clothing Alterations & Repairs. Tel: 872096 Mrs. White, Freshbrook.

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THE REFERENCE PAGE LOCAL COUNCILLORS TOOTHILL WESTLEA, SHAW & ROUGHMOOR/SPARCELLS Thamesdown Borough Council Tony Free, Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Tel: 619834 Ricky Midwinter, 4Anglesey Close, Westlea. Tel: 873537 Peter Stoddart, 9 Fairlawn, Liden. Tel: 692812 Surgeries for Free & Midwinter: Friday 6pm-7pm, Community Room, Toothill School.

Wiltshire County Council Alan Winmill, I The Holbeins, Grange Park. Tel:875129

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Thamesdown Borough Council Simon Cordon, 16 Branksome Road, Moreden. Tel: 617723 Martin Leighfield, 112 Reddllffe Street, Swindon. Tel: 692305 Bob Pixton, 12 Lambert Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 695317 Surgeries for Leighfield & Pixton: Wednesday 7pm-7.30pm, Community Room, Freshbrook School. Wiltshire County Council: Simon Cordon - as above.

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421

St. Mary's L.Tregroze for Freshbrook & Grange Park

RON AHRENS BUILDER & DECORATOR Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating, carpentry and plastering. All work guaranted. No Job too small. Free estimates.

Rev. Tony Price 870244

Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t

Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372

Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)

1 also All Saints, L. Millicent

INFORMATION FOR NEW ARRIVALS TO WEST SWINDON Arrivals Officer: Pam Pixton. She will visit you and provide advice and an information booklet about community facilities. Tel: 695317. Newcomers Coffee Morning: Tuesday 10.30am-12noon in the Community Suite, Link Centre.

LOCAL HEALTH SERVICES Doctors *Doctors Ketkar, Matheson, Nixon, Flowers, Holden, Chippendale, & Swinyard, Ashington House, Ashington Way, Westlea. Tel: 614840. *Doctor C. Reddy, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel: 870494. -Doctor Godbole, Ramleaze Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874894. -Doctor Kandiah, I Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 511253. Health Visitor Team, 4 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Tel: 642133/610459. Baby Clinics: Mon 1.30-4pm 5 Deerhurst Way, Toothill. Wed 10-12noon Shaw Community Centre. Wed 2-4pm Greendown School, Grange Park. Thurs 2-4pm Freshbrook Community Centre. Fri 2-4prn Upper Shaw Farm, Shaw Ridge. Family Planning: Free clinics every Wednesday 6-8pm. 5 Deerhurst Way. No appointment necessary. Cervical Smear Tests. Pharmacies *Ashington Way Pharmacy: Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm; Sat 8.30am-12noon; Sun 11.30am-12.30pm Tel: 616840. *Coopers, West Swindon Centre: Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm; Fri 9am-9pm; Sat 9am-6pm Tel: 872033. •G.K. Chemists, Shaw Village Centre: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9am-6.30pm; Thurs. 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Closed 1-2pm. Tel: 886076. *Ralph Palmer Pharmacy, 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm &2-6pm; Sat 9am-12noon. Tel: 512063. *The Village Pharmacy, Freshbrook Village Centre: Mon-Fri 9am-lpm & 2.15-7pm; Sat 9am-12.30pm Tel: 870226. Dentists -Brendan Ball & Associates, Freshbrook Village Centre. Tel:

873044. *Mrs. Beagley, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 872340. Optician RJ Holmes, Town Square, West Swindon Centre. Tel: 870011

WELFARE BENEFITS ADVICE POINTS

Welfare Benefits, Housing, Debt Counselling Advice *West Swindon Advice Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Mon, Wed & Fri 10am-12noon. *Toothill Advice Point, Toothill Community Centre. Tues. 10am-12noon.

COUNCIL HOUSING A Housing Advice Service is available to tenants of houses rented from Thamesdown Borough Council. Tuesday 2pm-5pm at Toothill Community Centre.

THE CHURCH Anglican-Methodist-U.R.C.-Baptist. Church Office Tel: 874221. Freshbrook Evangelical Church. Sec: D. Linnecar Tel: 872884. The Bridge Christian Fellowship. John Gibson. Tel: 27250. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Tel: 874400. Jamal Mohammadia Prayer Group. Mr. Khan Tel:481986

WNW

GGLEBOX Specialists in video & TV repairs Free home estimates All work guaranteed Service from 8am - 9pm NO CALL OUT CHARGE

TEL: SWINDON 813485

THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S. 62 - 64 Purton Road. Tel: Swindon 26780 Mon. - Fri. 9am-1Oam; 2pm-3pm; 5pm-6pm Open Surgery Mon. - Fri. 6pm-6.3Opm Saturday 9am- 1 lam

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Shaw

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Renault Centre

29 Cavendish Square. Tel: Swindon 511267

24 Hour Emergency ServIce

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100511

Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 26601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602

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GARAGE LIMITED T

WESTMEAD DRIVE, WESTLEA, SWINDON. TEL (0793)641643

WE ARE WEST SWINDON'S LOCAL GARAGE OFFERING: * 24 HOUR BREAKDOWN AND RECOVERY * SERVICING AND REPAIRS * MOTs WHILE YOU WAIT-7 DAYS A WEEK * ACCIDENT REPAIRS AND CAR BODY SPRAYING * MINI BUS AND CAR HIRE * ALL ESTIMATES GIVEN FREE

AA APPOINTED

PARTS & ACCESSORIES TRY US FIRST FOR ALL THESE ITEMS FOR ALL POPULAR MAKES OF CAR "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE IF IT'S NOT HERE, IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS" OILS, LUBRICANTS & ADDITIVES BATTERIES WITH 3 YEAR WARRANTIES ALL LUCAS ELECTRICAL PARTS INCLUDING STARTERS, ALTERNATORS, HEADLIGHTS, IGNITION PARTS, BULBS & FUSES. RADIATORS; WIPER BLADES OIL AND AIR FILTERS STEERING & SUSPENSION PARTS OIL AND WATER PUMPS SHOCK ABSORBERS; BRAKE PARTS FAN BELTS; GASKETS PETROL PUMPS ACCELERATOR & CLUTCH CABLES EXHAUST PIPES; TYRES "COME TO US FOR A BARGAIN BEFORE YOU LOOK ANYWHERE ELSE" IF IT'S NOT HERE. IT WILL BE IN 24 HOURS