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EXPRESS CYCLE SPECIALIST

Magazine THE

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96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon

No. 111 • June 1991 • Circulation 10,500

ir (0793) 534907 & 513705 / E]flL '

E NREN YOUR HELP The Link Magazine is carrying out another reader survey. Give us ten minutes of your time by filling out and returning the questionnaire on pages 11 and 12. You could win £10 in a prize draw. Stand and deliver your sponsorship The Swindon Riding Centre for the Disabled want you to take a ride into the past while handicapped riders look forward to the future, - by horseback, carriage, mountain bike, on foot or on a hobby-horse! They're holding The Highwayman's Sponsored Ride on Sunday 16 June along the route of the old stagecoach road from Swindon to Marlborough. They want anybody who would like to be Dick Turpin for the day to take to the outdoors. Prizes will be awarded for highest sponsorship and best turnout in period costume. The route is 9 miles one way and there will be approximately 20 optional fences. To enter, send a stamped addressed envelope to 59 Goldsborough Close,Eastleaze,Swindon as soon as possible.

Nos-ca(gia, UJee1end Lyd lard Park Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 June Organised by the Swindon Machinary Preservation Society • Traditional village green scene with Maypole dancing, Morris Dancing, Town Crier, etc. • Traditional working farm machinary & vintage tractors • Vintage & classic cars, motorcycles & military vehicles • Steam traction engines & fairground organs • Rural crafts & Rare breeds • Vintage caravans & Horse drawn vehicles • Falconry display • Lots more

Getting ready for a festival

Eric McCray and his daughter Laura-Lee Ann from Watercrook Mews,Westlea attended theUnder 5's Disco on 15 May to promote the fourth West Swindon Under 5's Festival in June. Turn to page4for your cut out and use details of festival events

Zoe skates for the top Tiny ice skater Zoe Jones from Wentworth Park, Freshbrook has been invited by the National Skating As socia tion to join an elite band of British youngsters who are to be prepared in a novice squad for a future Olympic games. The Link featured eleven yea rold Zoe in April 1990 when she was having difficulty in passing her NSA bronze skating certificate because the judges couldn't see the impression her skates made on the ice. She just wasn't heavy enough. She passed the test in January but she has only managed to put on 8lbs in twelve months and still practices with weights around her waist. However the eleven year old who weighs only 64 lbs. is proving to be a heavyweight in skating competitions around the country, regularly beating 14 and 15 year olds. Zoe, who leaves Freshbrook School in July and starts at Greendown in September, will continue

Mums and Dads. Organise your children and their friends and enter the Greendown community 5 a-side mini-soccer tournament on 6 July.

Details and entry form on page 15

her regulars kating programme but will join the novice squad training sessions every six to eight weeks. 'We were quite stunned when the invitation arrived," said mum Chris Jones. "Zoe rises to the big occasions; we're so proud for her."

Check out your councillors Following the elections on 2 May, we give the results and publish photos of all West Swindon's political representatives on Thamesdown Borough Council and Wiltshire County Council. Turn to page 23

Tim's day out

TSP

TEL:

KAR HIRE 610188

-FORD . FIAT • ROVER •VOLKSWSAGEN • NISSAN -RENAULT • MINI BUSES• VANS CHILD SEATS AVAILABLE Unit 22, Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon

Pets At Home Worried about who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday? Pets-At-Home could be your answer. Pets-At-Home is a service which cares for pets (sorry, no dogs) in their own homes.

Tim Gibson, our front page footballer last month, had a great day as a mascot for Swindon Town against Leicester City on 27 April. Tim won the chance to lead the team out in a competition run in The Link in 1990. He's pictured below on the left with the two other mascots, match officials and Town captain Cohn Calderwood, left. (Photo: Dave Evans, Evening Advertiser)

Telephone Swindon 873062 for furt her details

The simple answer to hairless, smooth skin

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THE ZAHRA METHOD OF HAIR REMOVAL "It's not electrolysis, it's not waxing and the treatment has not been tested on animals"

Prices: Half leg from £6.50 . Top lip from C2.50 • Bikini line from £4.50

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Vacancies for over 45s

Good Companions Club vacancies

The Link 45+ Social Club has vacancies for new members. The club meets on a Tuesday afternoonat the Link Centre from2pm to 4pm. Talks, concerts and outings are organised regularly and bingo is played on some weeks. Newcomers are invited to turn up or give Norman Bowles a ring on 694425.

New members welcome. Retired people are invited to go along, meet new friends and take part in activities including cards, scrabble, dominoes, whist and bingo. We meet every Monday 200pm 4.00pm at Toothill Community Centre. 'Phone Mrs King on 871401 or Mr Lewis on 876941 for more information.

ffilthk M 450 Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282

'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.' Advertising Sales: Contents Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 5 Toothill I Apple Macintosh design, layout 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park and lasersetting by Keystrokes 8 Westlea Electronic Design 9 Shaw Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol 11-12 The Link survey 13 Local Lives Published monthly. 14-15 Recreation 16 At Your Library Copy date for the 17 Arts Scene July edition: 18-26 News and Views 15th of June 27 Green Tendencies 28-29 Out and About The July edition will be 30 Letters & Small Ads. published on 28 June The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Altering the face of The Link Readers may have noticed in a difference with this month's Link magazine. Apart from the fact that there are more pages compared with the last three editions, we have changed our paper stock to one with a higher recycled content. A case of going grey to be green. We were going to change our front page masthead but felt that a complete new look may be a bit too drastic. However, we will be altering it later this year as a result of a competition we will be running.

As The Link is almost completely produced electronically onanApple Macintosh desktop publishing computer system, we are challenging electronic designers ('Macintosh creatives') across Britain to come up with our new masthead. The look may change a little but one thing is certain, no other publication covers West Swindon as well as wedo and no other is as well read. Which is a plug for our reader survey on page 11-12. Please return it and help us continue to improve The Link for you.

3 "Just to let you know about the diet. I've lost pounds" '7saidyoz could do it with the help of a Cambridge Counsellor."

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All

the (iibridfe Diet DEVELOPED BY DOCTORS OVER 20 YEARS

Teenagers get own club night out Hundreds of Under 18s have been enjoying themselves every Tuesday evening at the Cairns nightclub Streetwise disco, which was launched at the beginning of May. Club manager Mike Hilkene said thathewas really pleased thatyoung people in the area were supporting

Streetwise. "They're in a secure environment where good music and having a fun time is important. The no smoking policy has been accepted without any problems." He added that further projects involving youngsters were planned.

There's a discount ticket on page 19. Girls from Brad on Forest School striking a pose in Cairos

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

Personal Introductions in the Swindon area for single, separated, divorced or widowed people who want to make a new start

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

TEL: SWINDON 813485

HOLIDAYS IN THE SUN CANARY ISLANDS, PORTUGAL AND SPAIN

Su pulls the winners Pizza Hut at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park held a raffle during May in aid of the Save the Children Fund and also donated 5p from every dessert purchased. I-ITV presenter Su Porter came along to make the draw for a dozen prizes donated by local businesses and Thamesdown recreation services. Altogether £500 was raised for the cause.

Luxury holidays at a price you can afford \Fully serviced luxury j,partments, accommodating up to two adults and three children - swimming pools, bars, restaurant, shops and many other sport and leisure facilities.

Su Porter isassisted byPizza Hut waitress Evelyn Birch to pick the winners

A drive to recruit more volunteers for local charitable groups takes place during the first week of June. As part of the National Volun-

teers Week, the Thamesdown Volunteer Bureau is organising a big display of information in the Swindon's Brunel Plaza on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 June. Many of the voluntary groups active in the borough will be showing off their work and the opportunities to help them in a voluntary capacity. Each group will have a member available to talk about the group and how people can become involved.

All dates available from only £75 per apartment per week. Flights and Insurance Extra. Call us now on

0793 432462 for further details or write to Regal Holidays (Southern ) Ltd Shaftesbury Centre, Percy Street Rodbourne Swindon

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TOOTH ILL

RALPH PALMER PHARMACY

Philip Stone

Painter & Decorator Exploring India

For a high standard of work with references available

A class atToothillSchool would like to say thankyou to local firm which has helped them in their studies on India. Readers Digest, based atBlagrove Industrial Estate, has been distributing atlases to schools in the area after publishing a new edition. The donation came just at the right time for Rebecca Hayward's year 5 class which has been studying the Indian sub-continent. The books have been very useful not only in helpingchildren acquire knowledge of geography, but also in developing index and mathematical skills she said.

Telephone now for a FREE estimate

Tel: 870515 F-1 THE COMPLETE ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Pictured above withMary Cox from Readers Digest ,from left ,Michael Law, Hazel Smith, Andrew Thompson and Abigail Kinsey

'New' church in need of repair Toothill's Church is in need of restoration, only twelve and a half years after it was built. A large crack appeared in a corner wall during the very dry summer last year. At onetime, the crack was two inches wide and birds were regularly finding an easy way to join the congregation. Aninsuranceclaimwill covermost of the repair bill but the congregation will still have to dip into its reserves to find at lea st (2,500. Also the church won't be able to claim for any subsidence in the future. ToothillM.inisterlanHanscomb, pictured here showing the width of the crack, said the ad jacent hedge and trees had probably caused greater shrinkage in ground conditions after two very dry summers. "I don't think we will be putting up the traditional ther-

RON AHRENS BUILDER DECORATOR Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating. carpentry & plastering.

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Commercial, Industrial & Domestic Installations Full inspection & testing of premises undertaken Fire/Intruder Alarms Specialists Swindon 870948

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Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)

THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC

Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S.

West Swindon - Tel: 526780 62 . 64 Purton Road. Ian Hanscomb loses a finger in a cracking wall

mometer outside showing the progress of our fundraising, but it's ironic that in the same pdrish we have St Mary's Church at Lydiard Tregoze which is 800 years old and hasn't a crack."

First birthday for Beavers The Toothifi Beaver Colony which maetsatToothill Church celebrated its first birthday in May. Before enjoying a pizza party, the 24 youngsters were taken on a mystery trip to RAF Lynham and given a ground tour of a Hercules. Throughout the year, the group of six and seven year olds have taken part in a wide variety of activities including nature studies, North American Indians, games, road and home safety, dental hygene and learning about the weather. There have been lots of parties, visits and the group did a good turn by clearing up loads of rubbish around Toothill Village Centre

3 Deethurst Way Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m. 230p.m. - 6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. -12noon Telephone: 512063

PMH Bath oa

Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Saturday 9am- 1 lam Old Town. Tel: 542300 1 Ashford Road (see map)

Mon. - Fri. 9am-6.30pm Fri. 2pm-3pm Saturday 5.30pm-6.30pm

C, C

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Wootton asselt Cl) Road ;

IAshford lRoad

East Swindon. Tel: 511267 29 Cavendish Square.

24 Hour Emergency & Advice Service

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 Beaver leader Brenda Grove holds a birthday cake with, from left, Richard Corbin, AndrewFoley,JamesPortsmith and Grant Hutchins

WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 526601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Flying photo visit for birthday shot r corn

muncy cast

Freshbrook School started its tenth birthday celebrations by assembling all 670 children, teachers and support staff on the school field for an aerial photograph on 22 May. The helicopter crew who took the photograph landed on the school

Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226

field beforehand to talk to children about the machine and to arrange everybody into position. Look out for the photograph in next month's Link. On Friday 24 May, the children and staff were outside again for a picnic lunch to which parents were invited. Pictured left, the helicopter crew talk to children about flying and aerial photography

Grange Park footpath dangers

Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am- 1pm 215pm - 630pm Tuesday 9am- 1pm: 2.15pm-5pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

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Consultations by Appointment Mon to Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm 8.00pm -1 O.00pm Sat 9.00am - 1 2.3Opm

School swims to the top Freshbrook School's powerful swimming squad took places in twelve out of fourteen finals at the Thamesdown Primary Schools swimming gala on 16 May at Wroughton sports centre. Last year the school were joint winners with Lawns School, this year they were outright winners. Coach and parent Steve Smith said the swimmers were brilliant and was sure that Alice Warne, the teacher who coached the team last year and is presently on a teacher exchange in the U.S.A., would be ,over the moon.' He added that the noisy support of Freshbrook School parents at the gala was unbelievable. Lined up with fancy dress entrants at Windmill Hill School'sFete on May 11 is Daryl Lipsey, General manager of the Swindon Wildcats ice-hockey club

• LATE NIGHT SURGERIES • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY TREATMENT WESTLEA TOOTH ILL

TEL: 881919

A line painted on a footpath/cycle route is causing conflict between pedestrians and cyclists. The 800 yard line, which runs from Tallis Walk to Kiln Park and cost £500 to put down, creates problems for parents returning from Oliver Tomkins School with their children. Cyclists seem to think that they do not need to consider pedestrians any longer and are riding down the hill from Grange Park and through the Whitehill Way underpass at top speed. Parents who use the route are appealing to cyclists to take more care because young children cannot be expected to understand what the line means.

BUSINESS GROWS WITH THE LINK

Advertisements in The Link work! Ask anybody who lives in West Swindon which publication they read. Most will say The Link magazine. Why? Because it's relevant. People don't browse through or ignore The Link, like they do other publications. They read it very closely because it's about their area and it's the best way of finding out what's going on.

Advertisements must have impact. If they don't you're wasting money. The Link is distributed to over 10,000 newly built homes in West Swindon - about 30,000 people who are all consumers of products and services. If you need to communicate with them, there's no better way than through The Link.

Telephone 871793 and we'll help you get your message across

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WESTLEA

8 Westlea School Summer Country Fayre Saturday 29 June 2.00pm -400pm

Acrobatics, Dance Displays, Grand Auction, Model Car Racing, Roundabout, Pony Rides, Duck Race and many stalls Also Childrens Football Tournament 9 3Oam & Fun Run 1 3Opm Applications forms for Fun Run from school office

R.T. Fancy Landscape Gardener in West Swindon 20 years experience. Turfing, Paving, : Fencing, Pergolas, Planting New Gardens, Rockery Construction, Crazy Paving etc.

Tel: 875174

PB PLUMBING SERVICES Boilers Serviced • Pump Fitting Service • Water Softeners Fitted • Washing Machines and Dishwashers Installed

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Building arrives - name wanted Our story last month about the Westlea After School Club not having a building to startup in after securing £15,000 to launch their club brought a speedy response from two councils. Local councillor Ricky Midwin- building will compliment the ter said there had been a bit of mis- George and Ann Tweed Commucommunication between Thames- nity Room built by Thamesdown in down Council who are providing 1986," he said. 'Working with local the building and Wiltshire County people and the school, we will now Council who had to make a decision see an after-school club, junioryouth about use of the Westlea School site. activities and groups for older peoBut all had been resolved and the ple start up in Westlea." Thamesdown will be running the contractors arrived on site in midbuilding but management arrangeMay to prepare the ground. A brand new building measuring ments which involve the council, 100' by 48 arrived at the end of May the school and local people are beto provide the area with much ing worked out. A meeting involvneeded extra community facilities. ing interested parties is to be held in Court. Midwinter said that Westlea mid-June. had been built almost entirely by Children from Westlea School joined private developers who had not set Councillors Gary Griffiths, Ricky Midany land aside for local shops or winter and Sue Bates to cut the first sod community buildings. "This new before the building arrives

Tel: (0793) 642995

Y.D. 'UpIio(sterij Quality New & Restored Furniture, Antiques Restorations & Recovering Undertaken Showrooms Gilberts Newport Street, Swindon Telephone 539913

Give the new building a name

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& HOME DELIVERY SERVICE

WHY NOT HAVE A PIZZA DELIVERED TONIGHT? I

In the beginning there was the Sunshine Room, a small hut provided by house developers after a noisy campaign in 1982 by local people to get somewhere to meet in Westlea. That was replaced by the George and Ann Tweed community mom at Westlea School in 1986. What's the latest community building to be called? Thamesdown Council's Community Development Division is offering a prize to the person who comes up with a name which shows offWestlea's community spirit. Suggestions by 20 June to Denis Onley, Community Development Division, Thamesdown Borough Council, Civic Offices, Swindon.

7 NIGHTS A WEEK - 6pm 'til close if you receive The Link through your door, then you are within our FREE DEUVERY AREA. All Pizzas are made fresh to order and generally delivered in 30/40 minutes.

NOBODY GIVES BETTER SERVICE OR BETTER VALUE FOR MONEY!!! TRY ONE TONIGHT!! FREE TO YOUR DOOR, WHY PAY MORE

Farewell to church worker Helen Lawrence says good-bye to a member of Westlea Church

Many local children will know ShaivnConnell -she's boeninvolved in assemblies in several West Swindon schools. Sharon - a Church Army officer, has been a member of Westlea Church, but now she is moving on - to Germany. Sharon will be centre evangelist at a Church Army centre on the British Army garrison atOsnabruck. She says the title 'Centre Evangelist' gives her plenty of scope to tell people about Jesus in any way they can hear. She'll jump straight into the job with a three week holiday club for the garrison children. Later on she will develop after school clubs

(as she has here in Pinehurst) and work with families and young people. The centre includes a bookshop, gymand is a ga rrison meeting place. Hopefully, they also have a football team and a nearby casualty department for our accident-prone footballer. Goodbye Sharon.

Bikers raise cash The children of Westlea playgroup took part in a sponsored trike and bike ride in May. Eighty children took part and raised £450.

Mansfield Begbie Associates

MORTGAGE AND INSURANCE SERVICES 0&

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jAppointed Representative, for the purposes of The Financial Services Act 1986, of Cornhill Insurance Group, member of LWInD and I.M.R.O REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

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Football fun with the stars Eighty boys and girls took part in a mass football training session at Shaw's Saitway School in May conducted by Swindon Town players David Kirsiake and Ross McLaren.

David Kirslake shows Stacy Messam and Michael Lees the technicalities of a good pass

Jumble wanted Shaw Women's Institute is holding a jumble sale in July with proceeds being shared between club fun and CLIC. Call 873234 to arrange collection.

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Third World. Below: Marion Aldridge and Caroline McLoughlin show off two garments on show

Craftsman in Paint and Decor

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Traidcraft sells well Over 100 people attended a fashion show at Shaw Church. Volunteers modelled clothes made for Traidcraft which runs fair workshops and pays fair wages to people in the

Raymond Stansfield

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Books for all Shaw RidgeSchool devoted a whole week to books and the enjoyment of reading in May. Visiting authors including Helen East, Dick Cate, Mike Dickinson, Jill Bennett and David Cox read stories and talked to the children about their work. The event was sponsored by Allied Dunbar and involved children, staff and parents in reading, competitions and puzzles. Pictured with childrens poet Judith Nicholls, from leftLaura Craft, Kathy Hancox, Sally Price and Liam McGrogan.

SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes.

Telephone: (0793) 874299

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Awards for survival

'74

DRIVEWAYS A tree for Katie Pattern stamped concrete in natural stone colours for paths, patios & driveways c

The children of Brook Field School held a service at the beginning of May for Katie Or-me, the 5'Iyear old from Sparcells who died in April after a valiant fight against cancer. Rev. Helen Drummond read a sermon and the children sang their favourite hymns. Katie's mum Julie Orme, from Sparcells, donated and planted a tree in the school grounds, below.

Wide range of patterns and colours available Flagstone pattern being imprinted into fresh concrete

We lay it, you'll love it 'Phone for FREE colour brochure NOW 0793 - 851250 days 0793 - 855303 eves concrete with a difference!

Three childrenatShawRidge School have achieved the highest award in the Amateur Swimming Association's swimming challenge by passing the personal survival Honours Certificate. Tania Beagley, 11, Paul Cox and Chris Blythin, both 10, had to complete a very difficult course which required swimming long distances and performing a variety of survival tasks during the swim. Head teacher Kieth Burke said the children had made a tremendous achievement at a very high standard. Children start swimming from their second term at Shaw Ridge where great stress is placed on learning personal survival techniques.

Please help us make The Link a better magazine by filling in and returning this questionnaire by 22nd June. Your time in answering the questions will be greatly appreciated.

You can win ÂŁ10! Complete the slip over the page, cut it from the questionnaire and send both to us. We will ensure that they will be immediately seperated from each other when your envelope is received. Five names will be picked and each one will receive ÂŁ10.

Send them to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ How carefully do you read the papers you get?

How do you find out about what is going on in West Swindon? Tick any that apply.

Read most of it

Fends and other people The Link Magazine

Swindon Messenger

Newspapers Radio

The Star

Don't read it

Thamesdown Target Thamesdown Life & Leisure

Posters Other

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Do you read your copy of The Link

GWR Radio

Radio 1

Radio 4

Sometimes

Brunel Radio

Radio 2

Radio 5

Never - Why not?

Wiltshire Sound

Radio 3

Every month

Read some of it

Do you subscribe to Swindon Cable Television?

If you read The Link, do you: Just flick through it casually

Yes

Not now but have done in the past

Read about your area only

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Other

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Month

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What topics would you like to see in The Link which are not covered at present?

Have you ever used any of the businesses advertised in The Link, e.g. hairdresser, garden centre, builder, garage etc? Yes No If you have, can you remember which ones you used?

Toothill

Freshbrook

Grange Park

Wesflea

Shaw

Sparcells

Have you moved in the last 5 years? If yes, where from: Elsewhere in West Swindon Elsewhere in Swindon Elsewhere in Wiltshire. Where? Another part of the UK. Where? Another country? What is the occupation of the head of household?

Do you take the Evening Advertiser? No db Sometimes

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Daily Do you have it delivered?

Yes

Which of the following free papers do you get regularly? Swindon Mnger The Star Thamesdown Target Thamesdown Life and Leisure

Never

Sometimes

All the time

Which of the following do you USUALLY go to for food shopping. Tick one, ASDA. West Swindon Sainsbury's, Bridgemead Safeway, Haydon Wick Tesco Superstore Swindon Town Centre Other (please specify)

If you do not want to be identified with your questionnaire but want your name to be entered in our prize draw, please cut off this top part of the form and enclose it in the envelope. We will make sure it goes straight into the hat. Name Address

How do you rate Swindon Town Centre for the following: V. Good

Poor

Average

Good

V Poor

Parking Range of Shops Choice of Goods: Clothing Furniture Electrical Toys Non-Food Shopping - Where do you USUALLY go to buy the following: W Swindon

Swindon

Old Town

Bath

Oxford

Reading

Bristol

Adults clothes Children's clothes Garden items Shoes Electrical goods Furniture Kitchenware Sports equipment Spectacles Jewellery Books Toys Holidays If you USUALLY travel to another town for non-food shopping, please tell us why?

How often, approximately, do you use the following facilities in West Swindon? most days

once a week

once a month

once a year

never

MGM Cinema Superbowl Cairo's Nightclub Pizzahut Pinkertons Restaurant Shaw Ridge Tavern Peppercorns Restaurant The Chinese Experience The Running Horse, Beefeater Hotel Ibis Restaurant A local pub Link Centre Delta Tennis Centre Pizza Delivery Service

Which one?

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Other

LOCAL LIVES

High flying in miniature If the weather is good at the weekend, you'll usually find me at Wroughton airfield flying with the Swindon Model Aero Club. Although termed models, most modern radio controlled planes are miniature aircraft, having all the basic functions of their full size counterparts, and can perform all of theaerobatic manoeuvres, plus more than the real thing. I have four model aircraft at present, including a Y5size American Super Chipmunk and a Y5size TigerMoth biplane with a wingspan of six feet.

Derek Russell of Whittington Road, Westlea spends most of his fine weather weekends flying.

stickon the transmitter is eased back to make the model rise into the air. It is always pleasing to make a good take off, and see the plane climb nicely to a safe height, where the fun can begin. WiththeChipmunkflyingstraight and level,Iopen her up to full power to build up speed, by easing back and holding the elevator stick on the transmitter. The plane climbs into a loop, throttle back as she goes over the top of the loop to stop her screaming downward,s to complete the manoeuvre. Once back on the

Derek in his Whittington Road hanger

radio controlled planes will find a well stocked model shop near the Wyvern theatre where they can get advice, and membership forms for theSwindonModelAeroClub. Why not try it? I can guarantee you'll have fun.

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As there is a stiff breeze blowing today, I have elected to fly the Super Chipmunk as it weighs nearly 8lbs, and is more predictable to fly in windy conditions. Being the first man to arrive at the airfield I go the the club house, and get out the field equipment. This consists of cones to mark out the pilots area (away from the pits), fire extinguisher, first aid kit (those propellers can really bit), and a frequency marker board. The car is unloaded at the pits, and then driven well away to a safe spot. There are three flying sites on the airfield for models, one for power, one for helicopters, and the other for gliders. No one is allowed to switch on a transmitter until they have frequency clearance by placing their peg on the frequency marker to ensure that there are no conflicts. Otherwise we would have planes droppingout of the sky like autumn leaves. My flight box provides a pumped fuel supply, glow plug energiser, and a 12 volt electric starter, to make fueling and startingengines much easier. The plane with the engine running is restrained, and run up to full power whilst all radio controls are checked to ensure there no vibration problems. With the plane on the runway, pointing into wind the throttle is opened, and when sufficient speed has built up the elevator

straight and level, I throttle up and push the stick to the right, and the plane completes a 360' clockwise roll, stick to the left and she rolls 360' anti-clockwise. I gently push the stick forward, the nose drops and the plane completes an outside loop, further aerobatics consist of inverted flight, figure of eights, and stall turns. After fifteen minutes or so of flying, I know the plane is low on fuel so it's time to land. I take her out for a rectangular landing approach into wind, throttle back, line her up with the runway, and let her descend gently. When theChipmunk is about two foot from the runway the throttle is closed, a touch of 'up' elevator, to lift the nose as the wheels touch down, another safe, and satisfying landing. If there are newcomers on site with trainers, the experienced flyers assist them by taking the plane off, and getting plenty of height. The novice can then practice safely, handing the transmitter back to the tutor when it's time to land, or if they are in trouble. After a flying session the fuel residue is wiped off the plane, and the wings removed for transportation, any damage is noted for attention back at the hanger (garage). I derive great pleasure from the hobby, and can recommend it to all those who are budding pilots. Anyone interested in taking up flying

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RECREATION

Grid iron in the west West Swindon is to become the centreforAmericanFootball in the area if plans by local team Swindon Steelers are successful. They recently started using the playing fields and all weather surface at Greendown School for practice sessions and are going to start playing games there from 1992. They presently have to travel to Devizes for their matches. The club is also aiming to start a junior team for 14 to 17 year olds in September. To get players inter-

ested, two five day clinics are planned for the summer holidays so that youngsters can get an idea of what the game is all about. These will take place on 22 - 26 July and 19-23 August, 10.30am to 3.30pm every day. The cost is £35 for the five days and details are available from Steelers coach Paul Steiner on 790319 (evenings) or from Steve O'Sullivan at Greendown. Nice guys under their helmets, from left, Kevin Ward, Philip Hodgeson and Keith Woods.

June at the Link Centre

Westsi'de ç .,Sports Shaw Village Centre,Shaw (between JCR & Shaw Church)PAW Tel: 875712

The Derby Disco Do the Derby at the Link Ice Rink and test your skating skills on our 'Race Track'. Races will be held for all skating abilities so if you have only just learnt to skate you'll be able to join in the fun as well. Wednesday 5 June, 7.00pm 1000pm, Adults E2.40, concessions £1.90

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Sundays 7.30pm.8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm up, Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool down. Suitable for beginners/Intermediates.

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Pool Closure The Link swimming pool will be closed to the public on Sunday 2 June due to an Annual Junior Sprint Meet. Apologise for any inconvenience.

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Sunday 16 June - Sunday 23 June Swim a mile during 'Swimfit' week and you'll be helping local people with multiple sclerosis, and the MS researchpmgramme will benefit too. You can complete it on several swims during National Swimfit week or in one swim. Enquiry Hotline Swimfit: 0382 25093.

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Skating Enthusiasts for New Team Link's Skating DevelopmentOfficer, Alan Seabrook is hoping to enter a Precision Skating team into various competitions later this year. In preparation for this precision skatingsessions are being held onSaturdays as follows: 145pm - 2.45pm Precision Skating 18 years and under £1.80 2.45pm - 3.30pm Precision Skating adults £1.60 4.00pm - 500pm Speed Skate for all £1.80 You need only have gained the basic skating skills to come along and join in. Further details available from Alan Seabrook, telephone 871212.

Summer is here and many of you are thinking about that long awaited summer holiday. But are you going to be fit enough for it, are you going to be in the shape you want to be before you go away this year? With August and September the most popular months to indulge in a fortnight's worth of sun, sea and sangria there is still time to get in shape and increase your fitness. You might think it strange that people would actually plan a fitness campaign with a holiday as the target butl cannot think of abetter goal to aim for. Picture this, you plan to visit the beautiful Lake District. On your arrival you discover that walking more than half a mileadayisbeyond you because the only exercise you have had in the last year was falling out of the front door into the car. Or having sunned yourself you decide to take a dip in the hotel pool. A width of doggie-paddle is all you can manage before being fished out red faced, with the family frantically thumbing through the phrase book, trying to find the Spanish for 'fetch the oxygen mask'. The point I am trying to make is thatbeingingood physicalcondition can only enhance your holiday no matter what type of break you choose so START NOW.

RECREATION

Junior clubs building for the future Thamesdown tax payers get preference Eighty players, parents and managers attended the West Swindon Football Club's junior section presentation evening in the Village Inn at Shaw on 16 May. The club, which started two years ago, ran under 12s and under 13s teams last season and will be startingan under I Is team in September sponsored by West Side Sports of Shaw, with Ron Sproule in charge. "The club is growing and the players showed great character throughout the season, although both teams were regularly beaten," said Ron. "By starting an under us, we want to provide a mute for youngsters in West Swindon who want to play football for a strong club." Next season the other two teams will compete in under 12 and under 14 leagues. Not enough under 13s have shown interest to enter a team in the league. Each player received a certificate at the presentation evening and special awards were made to players of the year. Flowers were presented to Nita Swatton, under 12s kit washer and Jane Dart, underl3s kitwasher, club

Permanent residents of Thamesdown will get preferential treatment from 3 June when they book many of the recreation facilities around the Borough. A new credit card style booking card is being introduced which will allow residents the chance to make bookings 7 days in advance whilst non-Thamesdown residents will be restricted to 6 days advance booking.

Record breaker with ambition Award winners, from left, Matthew Buck, Alan Brooks, Matthew Lawrence, Gareth Pritchard and centre, Tyrone Parker secretary and treasurer. Youngsters who want to join the club and especially under 11 s who want to try out for the new team should contact: Under I Is -Ron Sproule, tel. 875400 Under 12s -Danny Lewis, teL 870380 Under 14s -Tye Mear, tel. 872401.

A young swimmer from Toothill has been showing tremendous talent over the last year. Calum Morrison, 7, from Yarmouth Close recently scored maximum points in the Swindon Dolphin's progress gala and also broke a club record for eight year olds which has stood for seven years. Calum, a pupil at Freshbrook School, has two ambitions - to swim for Scotland in the Commonwealth and Olympic games. He also plays mini-rugby at Wootton Bassett and wants to play for Scotland. Right: Calum with his cups and shields

Community Mini-Soccer Challenge An under its soccer tournament for boys and girls is being organised jointly by Greendown School and The Link magazine for Saturday 6 July. The mini-soccer tournament is aimed at 5 a-side teams organised by mums and dads ratherthan clubs. The aim is to bring together groups of friends who might play together in the street or in the local park to form teams for the day. The tournament will take place on the Greendown all-weather sur-

Residents can apply fora booking card at Link Centre reception or any other recreation centre. There is a ÂŁ5 deposit for the card and applicants will be asked to show some proof of residency in the Borough. It takes seven days to issue the new card and will be available from the centre where the original application was made. All existing booking cards will cease to be valid from 3 June.

face and there will be trophies and medals for the finalists. Games will be played in two separate age groups - under 8s and under us, as at June 1991. Each squad (boys and girls can enter) should have seven players and each team should provide its own colours. There's an entry charge of 50p per player. Parents who are organising teams can use the entry form below, or a seperate piece of card, which should be returned by Saturday 21 June.

Old Town 8 report The 2nd staging took place on Sunday 19 May, with 160 runners starting the race at Holy Rood Junior School in Old Town. Using the old railway line to Mannington roundabout the course included a 2 mile lap of Toothill before returning to the Lawns. Eamon Grimes (Swindon AC)

The Greendown Community School - The Link Magazine Under 11 s Community Mini Soccer Tournament Age group being entered: Under 8s EJ Under us D (Note: players should be under the age on 1 June 1991.

Steel Hodges Ockwell, Accountants & Tax Advisors, can help with all your financial and business planning and tax problems.

Team organiser: Address: Tel. no. 4

Names of players: 5. 2.

4. Return this form, with the 50p per player entry fee, to Steve O'Sullivan, Greendown Community School, Grange Park Way, LGr9e Park, Swindon by Saturday 21 June

won in a course record 42:31. 1st lady was Margaret Wiseman (Chippenham Harriers) with Sparcells Wendy Cole (Swindon AC) 2nd. For the 2nd year Neil Scott led home the 200 runners in the 25K Fun Run around the Lawns. ÂŁ600 was raised for science equipment at Holy Rood School.

Our FIMBRA registered company, Financial Advisory Centre, can also provide professional, friendly and impartial advice on raising money - either for business or buying your own home, investments and pensions.

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Anne Dawson (S.R.H.) State Registered Hairdresser Offering you a professional service in the comfort of your home. For an appointment, please telephone Swindon 870330 or 0860 585157

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Tuesdays 7pm Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre For more details, phone Sheena on 874085

"Caring in Action"

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by Phil Edwards During the month of April two new faces appeared among the library staff. My own is comparatively easy to spot-I'm the only member of staff with a beard. Carolyn Kennedy the regular librarian is away on maternity leave so I'm covering for her. The other new member of staff is Eleanor Snowdon. It's her first experience of library work, though not of the world of books. She has previously worked in bookshops and for a local children's publisher. I am also comparatively new to public library work having spent several years as a librarian in the field of structural engineering. There are no novels, no children's books and no romance (not on the shelves anyway), in engineering libraries. I therefore had a lot to learn when in 1986 I changed over to the more varied life of a public librarian. I worked for several months at Bradford-on-Avon Library, a town in whose maternity hospital I first saw the light of day. From there l moved to Devizes Library where I gained a useful insight into the wide range of services a public library can provide. Indeed, the variety of the work is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the public library field. At West Swindon Library, while we aim to provide a good local service, we do have the back-up of the County's resources and also the regionaland national library network. As well as loaning books, cassettes and maps from ourown stock we can, for a small fee, obtain them for you from other libraries, both within Wiltshire and outside the county. If we cannot supply your needs, we will always try to find out who can. This may include referring customers to the excellent library at Regents Circus in the centre of Swindon or further afield to, for

The man himself example the Public Record Office in Kew. There are numerous sources of information if only you know where to look. 'I can't help, but I know a man who can', might well also be a librarian's motto. The summer holidays will soon be upon us and many parents will be wondering what to do with the kids during those long hot summer days. Why not bring them along to West Swindon Library to join in our summer children's activities? On three Thursday mornings in August we'll be hosting activities on the theme of 'ice' in conjunction with staff from the Link Centre ice rink. Keep an eye open in future copies of the Link magazine and in the library for further details. While I'm on the subject of children's activities, it's worth reminding you that we hold weekly storytime sessions forunder-fives. Every Wednesday morning at 1030am, near the book-den (the carousel at the edge of the children's area), we read a few stories and then provide crayons and paper for the children to create their own pictures. Please bring your children along. It lasts for about thirty minutes and is free! See you there

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The 'out-of-home' entertainment television system- Leisure Channel - was relaunched in May by two West Swindon women. Carole Noble from Freshbrook and sister Louise from Toothill have taken over the multisLouen TV advert points at the Link and Oasis Centres. Miss Thamesdown Sarah Rossiterand G WR presenter SandyMartin launced the Leisure Channel, centre, with help of Kooky the Clown and Louise Noble

ARTS SCENE

Carnival! On 15 June, Tam Tainu an eightpiece band comprising the cream of British-based African musicians, who play infectious, unstoppable dance music play Link Arts. On 21 June Adzido Pan African Dance Ensemble present 'Under African Skies' at the Wyvern Theatre. The thirty strong dancers and drummers perform pulsating mu-

Pulsating excitement, mouth watering food and contemplative photograçhs make up a series of events leading up to Thamesdown's Carnival. At Link Arts throughout June, a photo exhibition N'Jarama Africa depicts the ten month stay in West Africa of Swindon photographer Matthew Tostevin.

Movies, Music and Magic Moments for children at Link Arts in June Doctors are back on Friday 2lst. This sensational seven-piece 'good-time' band packed the venue out last time they played here so get in early to be sure of a ticket! Doors open 800pm for all music gigs.

Children's Events

Martin - The Puppet Man - makes a welcome return to Link Arts on Saturday 1st with Tall Tales, a magical puppet show for over fours. Tickets: £2.50 Adults, £2 Children, 230pm. Simon Pitt will be hosting an afternoon of fun, writing and performance for over-sevens on Saturday 29th (1.00 pm - 4.00pm). Simon is a very funny and inventive children's authorand performer, places on this workshop are very limited and may be booked through Link Centre reception. £2.50 per child.

Movies

Dennis Hopper's 'The Hot Spot' (Thursday 6th) stars Don Johnson (Miami vice) ma smouldering, sexy story of small-town corruption! On Thursday 20th, Marlon Brando gives a marvellous parody of his Don Corleone role in a glorious comedy 'The Freshman'. Films start at 745pm. Further info, telephone 871212. • Link Arts co-ordinator Mel Jones departs for Milton Keynes at the end of June after two years in the job.

Music

Localbands Bardiche (Saturday 1st) and Red (Saturday 22nd) will be rocking the Link this month. For jazz lovers, The Mike Harries Root

büildin electric

sic, mesmerizing dance and vibrant poetry, some never before performed in the Western world. A celebration of Afro-Caribbean food takes place with Bickle: The Cookbook Photo Album at Link Arts at Link Arts from 5 to 26 July. Finally Edward II and the Red Hot Polkas provide a Ca rnival Hop on 13 July at Link Arts. With special carnival workshops for kids at the Joliffe Studios and Link Arts, details of carnival events are to be found in the CamivalFever leaflet at Arts and Recreation Centres around Thamesdnwn.

Comedy at the Wyvern

One of George Bernard Shaw's greatest plays arrives at the Wyvern Theatre from Monday 3 - Saturday 8 June. Starring Steven Pinner, best known as solicitorJonathen GordonDavies fromChannel4's Brookside, Arms and the Man is a brilliant observation of human weakness and vanity and is as relevant and accessible today as it was when the play was first produced almost 100 years ago. On 11 June the King of Knotty Ash Ken Dodd visits the Wyvern Below: A performer with the Adzido once again. Pan African Dance Ensemble Oneof Britain's funniestand most popular comics, his mission is to provide traditional variety entertainmentforallthe family. His quickfire humour punctuated with whimsical observations of his audience, along with the famous tickling stick is a theatrical event not to be missed. Bookings can be made at the Wyvern by phoning 524481. Details of other shows are given on page 20.

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A Freshbrook resident is up in arms about the antics of a Swindon driving school. Sue Neal from Worsley Road is fed up by a steady stream of learner drivers from theTyrod riving school passing her door, sometimes trapping her in her driveway for fifteen minutes at a time. Tyro runs residential courses and aims to teach people to drive in a week. Although they only have eleven cars on the road, Sue is convinced they have about 30. "People have to learn to drive, that's not the problem," said Sue, a hairdresser who works in the town centre. "But this company seems to think that the quiet streets of West Swindon are ideal for their daily invasion of learner drivers. Ifyou're unlucky you come across this curb crawling convoy of 15 or more cars. It's absolute tyromania. Why can't they spread out, takedifferent routes or use another part of town? "I'm afraid the sign on the back of each of their cars thanking me for my patience is a bit of a joke now." John Walsh, Tyro Driving School proprietor, said the driving instructors and students use the Asda restaurantfortheirtea and lunch breaks. "The only time you should see our cars together is when they are arriving or leaving the West Swindon Centre. "There are usually only 7 cars in use on the intensive courses and they don't follow in convoy. Apart from Mondays, you shouldn't normally see our cars in the area. West Swindon is a nursery route because it's quiet at the beginning of the week when the students are starting the course. Later on they move into other parts of the town where there are more difficult conditions and test routes." He added that Eldene is used far more ford riving instruction because its on a test route. Swindon has 125 driving schools said Mr Walsh.

NEWS & VIEWS

Bouncy deal on offer Interiors PROPERTY MANAGERS Opp the Town Hall SN 11 PX st. 1882 TeL.•S W in don 5 3655 1

West Swindon's Ace Funcastles owner Larry Jones, pictured above, is offeringa special summer mid-week deal to Link readers. He has three infla tables available forhirewhich are rented atE30a day at the weekends. During the week the bouncers are available for hire at QO a day or £12 for half a day.

Delivery and collection is free. The bouncers measure 10' by 10', 12' by 12' and 14' by 14'. They are ideal forbirthday parties and to bring a new activity for an under fives group. Safe, fun and guaranteed to get children to sleep at night. To book an Ace Funcastle, telephone 873552.

Suzanne gets a break

Youth centre meeting

Last month The Link featured Suzanne Rees, a teenager from Toothill, who was desperate to join a group and sing. Suzanne rang us to say that three bands contacted herasa resultof the article and she will be joining one based in Shaw. They are booked to perform in a charity concert at the Oasis in November and Suzanne will be singing alongside the Kay sisters, Marty Wilde and Joe Brown in aid of the cancer and leukemia organisation CUC. Well doneSuzanne and good luck.

A meeting to establish a centre for youngpeopleinWestSwindon takes place on Thursday 13 June, 8pm The long and difficult business of opening up the youth building at Toothill Farm again has moved a little closer with the granting of a lease to the Toothill After School Club by Thamesdown Council. The club is also to receive a grant of £16,000 from Thamesdown to renovate the building and there is hope for a further £10,000 from Wiltshire County youth services. The building is to be used for after-school care,a junioryouth club and as a centre for teenagers. The meeting on 13 June is open to parents and teenagers who would like to have a say in how it is run once renovation is complete. It takes place atToothifi Farm, Bodiarn Drive.

The GWR Majorettes are looking for youngsters aged 8 to 14s to join them. The are places for girls in the marching teams and both girls and boys in the band. To find out more, contact Corinna Johns on 873024.

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Ups will require that no one else should be in the house whilst children are being looked after. The customer will also be responsible for collecting and returning the sitterto home if required,orthe sitter's parents can provide the transport. The charge for the Sit-Ups service will be £3 an hour. Brian Stuckey is recruiting baby sitters at present. When he has built up the numbers available, he will start offering the service to parents who need sitters. However, customers can register their interest with him now. To become a baby sitter with SitUps or register as a customer, ring Brian Stuckey on 529463.

• .• .•

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UNDER 18'S AT AIROS

14 21NC CA1

Baby sitting business planned A new business is being launched to help the many families in the area who cannot find baby sitters. 'Sits-Ups' is the brainchild of Brian Stuckey of Toothill who aims to provide registered customers with reliable and caring sitters. "Swindon is a place where many families don't have relations to turn to for help," explained Brian. "The idea is to give parents the chance to have a social life or to cover their sitting needs if they have to go out." Sitter safety is very important says Brian and customers who need baby sitters will be asked to fill in a registration form before they can use the service. The customer will be able to stipulate the age of the sitter, but Sit-

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WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON Monday 3 - Saturday 8 June, 7.30pm Sat 430pm & 8.00pm Arms and the Man A comedy by George Bernard Shaw Starring Steven Pinner (Brookside) and Sebastian Abineri This production replaces the previously advertised A Prayer For Wings Sunday 9 June Swindon Brass Band Entertainment Contest 1 O.00am Fourth Section & Youth Bands 1 .3Opm Second, Third & Fourth Section 6.00pm Open Section These times are approximate and are subject to change Tuesday 11 June, 6.00pm & 8.45pm The Ken Dodd Laughter Show

Saturday 15 June, 10.00am - 4.00pm The Wyvern Summer Craft Market With live entertainment from the Panama Jazz Band, Theatre Des Bicyclettes, Swindon Young Musicians and Fire Shows!

AOl

WEA (Womens Branch) Open Day Toothill Community Centre On Thursday 27 June between 2.00pm - 430pm, the Womens Branch of the WEA who run courses for women locally are hosting an Open Day at Toothill Community Centre. All women are invited to come along to find out about a range of courses and activities that the Womens Branch currently provide. Tutors from many interesting courses such as DIY, Car Maintenance and Assertiveness will be giving women the opportunities to ask questions about what is on offer and even doing some demonstrations on the day. Free childcare will be provided we hope to lay on some entertainment for the children. Light refreshments and transport will also be available. For more details, please phone the Womens Branch on 618233.

Four courses in the arts and skills of aromatherapy will start at Swindon College, North Star over the next few months. They cover the use of various essential oils and their effect on the body, anatomy and massage techniques. The five week introductory courses give a basicgmunding in aromatherapy and are designed to help students decide whether they want to continue learning advanced techniques over a full eight week course. For more information, contact Sandy Best, tel 855266 or Pat Rossiter, tel 642992.

Advanced Courses Date: 16 September - 8 weeks. Time: 930am - 3.30pm. Cost: f225. Venue: Swindon College, North Star Avenue

BOX OFFICE (0793)

Thinking of returning to study, training or employment? Another course is shortly to be held at the Link Centre, for women who have had a break from employment and are starting to wonder about their future plans. The course, called Women Making Choices, will run over six mornings starting 18 June. It is free and a creche will be available. It will be tutored by Helen Evans from the Swindon Adult Guidance Unit. Helen says, 'We have run a number of these courses locally, including one at the Link Centre last June. Participants definitely gain a lot from the course in terms of feeling clearer about future job ideas, learning about local training opportunities and most importantly in starting to regain lost confidence." For further details contact the Adult Guidance Unit on 618866 and ask for the Women MakingChoices' leaflet. Leaflets are also available from the Link Centre Community Suite office and in The Mall on Tuesday mornings.

No previous experience of computers is needed to start the course and the trainers keep jargon to a minimum. Localcommunity groups are always looking for support and this course is an ideal way of giving housebound people the chance to help out by preparing minutes of committee meetings, keeping up to date membership records and accounts. To find out more about, contact Bridget Ross on 512446.

Introductory Courses - 5 weeks. Dates: 4 June and 24 September Time: 7.00pm - 9.30pm. Cost: £80 Venue: Swindon College, North Star Avenue

Tuesday 18 June, 7.30pm Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen and Pete Allen's Jazzmen

(0793) 694055

A project which provides computer training for people with restricted mobility caused by ill-health ordisability is looking for students. The course run by FF1 training in Swindon provides house bound people with the chance to learn about computers for personal use and covers word processing, databases, spreadsheets, post making and programming. The course is funded by ThamesdownCounciland is entirely free. Equipment is loaned to course members who receivea weekly visits from P11 trainer and a experienced volunteer trainer. The course runs for three months and oncecompleted the student can borrow the equipment for a further three months to gain more experience.

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NEWS & VIEWS

Getting at a killer disease Is your heart healthy? Are there things in your lifestyle which could be damaging it and giving you problems in the future? Health workers took to the read to tackle Britain's number one killer disease when they h'ld a 'Look after your heart' roadshow at the beginning of May in the West Swindon Centre. Hundreds of people visited the display of information on how to improve their life style and their chances of living longer. Practical advice on diet, exercise and how to stop smoking was on hand from the health staff and people were able to test their heart condition by doing a simple exercise routine. Smokers were persuaded to blow into breath analyser to check out the condition of their blood, lungs and heart. Local health visitor coordinator Jenny Jardine declared the event a success. "We were pleased that so many people visited the informa-

Silenced for a while A normally chirpy and talkative mum took a vow of silence in aid of a local playgroup in May. Sparcells Playgroup vice-chair and chatterbox Elaine Munday sat through a noisy playgroup session without saying a word on 14 May and raised over ÂŁ100. Playgroup supervisor Coby Day said, "It's a long time for Elaine to stay quiet." Shouting their heads off, from left, Sparcells children Harry Jones, Kyle Robson, Simon Bedwell and Robyn Hawkins with Elaine Munday

Jackie Lynch of Crawford Close takes a big puff into the smoke analyser

tion stand and talked to us about how they could improve their fitness and diet. The Swindon Health Authority has set itself the target of reducing the high levels of heart disease in the area. I hope we were able to get the message across."

Better late than never We reported that local health workers would move into the long awaited Health Centre in the week beginning 20 May. Originally the centre was planned to open in November 1990, then it was January 91, and finally it was delayed to mid-June this year.

Things looked up when the staff were told they could open in late May, but this was too good to be true and another delay put an open date to mid-June again. The Health Centre opens to the public on Monday and the telephone numbers are 877233 and 877244.

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Multi-cultural Womens Group sets up events programme Last month we publicised the launch of a new group aimed at black women and white women in mixed relationships living in West Swindon. There was a good response and the group is off the ground and has put together a programme of events for meetings over the next few weeks. 7 June: Stress release and relaxation. Feeling tense and unable to unwind? Do you get anxious in stressful situations? Come along to a relaxing session n.m by the WEA

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your local Zahra Practitioner. She's fully qualified and will treat you in confidence in her professionally equipped treatment room. For an appointment, I or simply to discuss treatment, call Judy Endicott on 872621

Registered Childminder Fully trained nurse with many years experience has vacancy for one toddler between 1 and five years old. Comfortable bungalow in West Swindon with large, completely safe indoor and outdoor play areas. All meals supplied. Daily pre-school teaching available Hours: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm maximum, including school holidays Interested parents welcome to inspect, with their child. Contact 619874.

with childcare provided, it prom- 28 June: Mental health in the AfroCarib community. An interesting ises to be a calm and fun session. and informative discussion group 14 June: Mixed race relationships. looking at the issues around mental What are the issues for you and health diagnosis, treatment and care what are the issues for your chil- as well as support for the carer. The dren? A lively discussion session group will be led by Ali Knapp. facilitated by Miriam Minty and Au 5 July: Credit Unions. What are Knapp. they? Can I get involved in one 21 June: Special care for black hair? locally? Is it true they give cheap A specialist on afro-carib hair care loans? How do you qualify for one? from Yvels, will talk to the group Pat Cheney from the Credit Union about the range and value of prodForum will answer all these quesucts on the market for use on our tions and more. hair and skin. All these Friday sessions will run School times from 1200pm to 200pm at Toothill compromise Farm on Bodiam Drive. Wherever The Governors of Freshbrook School possible child care will be provided. met in May and have agreed a phased For further information about the intiuduction of a new school day. group or any of the sessions please Balancing the needs of the school call MiriamMintyon 877083 ordmp to have a short lunch break and the into Toothill Farm. needs of parents, from September theday will run fmm9am to3.l5pm, Towns women ending 15 minutes early. This will be reviewed inFebruaiy with a view getting together to moving to an 845am start and 245pm finish from September 1992. Sally Davies reports: The West Swindon Townswomen's Guild had their regular monthly Wobbly toddler group meeting in May when theirSpeaker, A parent and toddler group which Mr David Salter talked most inforhas been going for thirteen years mally about 'Wills and Relations'. could close because its members Only three in ten make vi11s in Engcan't be bothered to take it over. land and many mistakes are made, The group meets on Tuesday and especially in home-made ones. One Thursday mornings at Freshbrook has to be specific in every detail. Community Centre and caters for Did you know that Shakespeare about 40 children on each day. left his second-best bed to Ann Retiring chairwoman Ann Tulley Hathaway? If one wonders how wants to find somebody who will wills are carried out in the case of take the group on. "I've made sev- simultaneous deaths of husband and eral appeals to the members and wife, the eldest is considered to have they all want it to continue, but no- died first, the other the heir, and body wants to do the work," she probate continues from there. said. "The present committee have There was a very lively question been involved for several years and and answer session and a lotlearned. thir children are now ready for The next meeting is 13 June in the school. It's time to pass the group on Community Suite at the Link - if we can find some people to help." Centre at 2.00pm. Anybody who can lend a hand Our Speaker's subject is 'Water should contact Anne on 873811. Divining'.

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POLITICAL POINTS

23 Results

Your West Swindon councillors

There was an upset in Toothill Ward Below are the councillors covering the two wards in West Swindon. Cut this page out and keep it by your in the 2 May localelections for places telephone for easy reference when you want to contact them. onThamesdown Council. The Conservative Party retained the seat in contention and won a second seat Freshbrook & Grange Park which fell vacant following the early resignation of Tony Free. Jo Stevens from Nine Elms and Rosemary Saunders from Highworth polled 1,579 and 1,517 votes respectively in a 34.93% turnout. There was no change in Freshbrook and Grange Park where long standing Liberal Democrat Simon Cordon kept his seat in a poll that brought just over 41% of the electorate out. Toothill Ward Jo Stevens (Con) 1,579 Rosemarie Saunders (Con) 1,517 Dannie Camburn (Lab) 1,439 Alan Winmill (Lab) 1,272 William Waring (Lib Dem) 698 Marilyn Harrison (Green) 573 Sue Bates Simon Cordon Tel: 617723 (Labour - Thamesdown), (Liberal Democrat - Thamesdown Bob Pixton Freshbrook (inc. Grange Park) 8 Selby Crescent & Wiltshire County Council) (Labour - Thamesdown) Simon Cordon (Lib Dem) 1,425 Freshbrook. 53 Malley Moor 12 Lambert Close Ivor Dix (Lab) 725 Tel: 872247 Liden Freshbrook Adrian Masters (Con) 472 Tel: 695317 Julie Deacon (Green) 131.

Toothill, Westlea, Shaw, Sparcells

Ricky Midwinter Alan Winmill Rosemary Saunders J0 Stevens (Labour - Thamesdown) (Labour - Wiltshire (Conservative - Thamesdown) (Conservative - Thamesdown) 4 Anglesey Close Tel: 861044 Tel: 874798 County Council) Westlea 1 The Hbeins, Grange Park Tel: 873537 Tel: 575129

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Recession hit market needs bucking up West Swindon's open air market is not what it used to be according to a local shopper. The market which operates on a Tuesday in the Link Centre coach park has seen a dramatic reduction in both the number of people visiting it and the number of traders willing to set up stalls there. "It all started very well last June, but after a few months people stopped coming and so did the traders," said Julia Quiley from Grange Park. "1 come every week because the fruit and veg are excellent, but there seem to be lots of people who have forgotten the market is still

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here. It's very good value, so what does it take to get people along?" Fruit and Veg trader Mark Shepherd from Reading said his trade is just as good as it ever was. "All markets drop off in the winter, but we've got regular customers and more are starting to come back now the weather is warmer." Sylvia Ash pole, who runs a dairy products stall with herhusband, said the public can't expect traders to stay with a market if they don't have customers. "Tuesday is not the best day so it will take time to build up the tradition of visiting the market. If more people start coming back, the traders will tell others and more will set up here."

Howard Potter, Director for Town & Country Markets said several factors have had an effect. "All markets have been effected by the recession and the opening of two superstores in Swindon during the last nine months hasn't helped. "We certainly see the market as being important to West Swindon; our backing for the mini-bus which brings in pensioners from the area confirms this. However, at the end of the day the market has to be profitable and we will be talking soon to Thamesdown to see how we can revive it. "It's been a difficult winter but the sun's out now and things will improve."

Lots of space for more stalls and customers on Tuesday in the Link coach park

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Lives ruined by employment "They callus shirkers, but it's not funny when you find it almost impossible to do the simplest tasks like turning a key or pulling on your knickers after going to the toilet. "Our lives have been destroyed by injuries caused by doing the same jobs for long hours - some of the biggest and so-called best employers in the town are guilty of treating us like dirt." For fear of reprisals this quote, and those below, are not attributed but the sentiment would be backed up by a group of workers, aged between eighteen and sixty five, whose lives have been ruined by employer's workingpractices. They have formed a group to support each other and to fight for their rights. Sta rting with six people in midApril the Swindon Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) group is only one of five in the country. There are now 35 members, all are bitter about the treatment they have received, many are in legal dispute with their previous employers. They meet at the Link Centre twice a month to share their experiences. The main aim of the group is to help each other and also to increase awareness of RSI among employers, employees, the media and in medical circles in the Swindon area and the south-west. RSI, or tenosynovitis, most often occurs in the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands and fingers, where the muscles and tendons are damaged,often irreparably,by continuous and repetitive movement in a job. One offica workersaid, "The move from typing to using the much lighter keyboards on word processors has changed office practice so much. You can type faster, 20,000 key presses an hour is expected nowadays. (The recommended safety limit is eight to ten thousand key depressions per hour). But employers, having spent a fortune on the new equipment and training, won't invest in the desks and chairs which relieve the strains of working at these high speeds." An assembly line operator lost her job after an operation, "1 did the same job eight hours a day for eight years. I started getting a tingling and cramps in one wrist and had to have ten weeks off. I was then away for seven months for an operation and physiotherapy. When I went back, I started to use the other hand more and so it started there. Now I can't work at all."

Group members relate how employers pressurise staff out of their jobs if they can't recover. "Often you try to keep going until your next holiday, thinking a rest will get you back to normal, but you go back and the pain starts again. If you can't keep up productivity or start taking sick leave, managers start suggesting you find other work. Eventually you are 'medically retired' with no compensation. Many are simply been sacked. It is wrong to think the Department of Social Services will help out say group members because most RSI sufferers can't get Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. So many RSI sufferers are reduced to living on the poverty line because there are very few handsfree jobs available. RSI causes not only physical pain, considerable mental damage also accompanies it. "The attitude of people is humiliating and soul destroying. There areno outward signs of disability so employers and your friends think you're trying it on. You loose confidence, yourself esteem goes, family life is put under strain. They just cannot accept that the normal day to day activities become impossible. One member could not even hold her new born baby because of the pain in her arms." Group members are also critical of some medical specialists. GPs are usually very supportive but sufferers get a negative attitude when they are refei ied upwards. One member said, "Some consultants often see RSI sufferers whilstalsodoingwork for the company that those people are working for. How can they take an objective view?" The Swindon RSI group wants contact with sufferers and any other interested parties to offer help and support. Typists, factory workers, journalists, nurses and many more can be injured. To find out more, contact the RSI group founder Jill Sumerling on 491029. Next meetings take placeon5Juneat lpmand 20 June at 7pm in the Community Suite at the Link Centre.

Changes for local family project A local family support project looks as if it's going to stay inbusiness,but changes will have to be made. With increasing pressure on national charities and difficulties faced by local government over the last few years, continued funding for the West Swindon Family Project has been uncertain for some time. However the future of the project, set up in 1981 by the National Childrens' Home (NCH), Wiltshire County and Thamesdown Borough Councils is assured. Staffed by three full time workers based at a house in Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, the project provides support to families experiencing difficulties who are referred by health visitors and social workers. A range of groups also use the house as a meeting place. These include a lone parent group, a holiday club, a welfare benefits advice point and the Freshbrook Credit Union. Over the next two years the NCH will be pulling out leaving a management committee made up of local people and representatives from Wiltshire Social Services in charge. Project worker John Jenkins said that everybody in the project had been encouraged by recent developments. "The Children's Act which comes into force this October mentions locally based family projects

Project Workers Kath Ryder, John Jenkins and Audrey Johnson

as important resources in preventing children being taken into care. Social Services have indicated that our funding will continue. "Details of changes in our work and staffing are things for future discussion, but there will definitely be changes in management arrangements, giving more local people a say in how the project is run." The WestSwindon Family Project holds a coffee morning every Wednesday morning for families who would like to find out more about the project. Volunteer helpers are also needed to help with the many different activities. Telephone John Jenkins or Audrey Johnson on 871303 for more details.

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26 Calling bowlers Our brief mention last month of the possibility of an indoor bowls club starting at Greendown Community School brought forward a dozen interested people. The school is thinking of purcha s-

ing full size indoor bowling mats but wants to know if there is demand for such a facility. Interested bowlers are asked to write to Mr Ian Matthews, Headteacher, Greendown, Grange Park to express their views.

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Service that vac for years of use Nowadays many people buy apiece of equipment for the home and when it goes wrong they throw it away. This is often the case with vacuum cleaners - what a waste of money. By having your vac serviced regularly and repaired when necessary, it will give years of operation in an 'as new' condition. Ray Mizen, pictured below, from Shaw nrns the National Vacuum CleanerServices franchise in the area and provides a free collection and delivery service. He will also give a free estimate on the doorstep and if he discovers a major problem on dismantling the vacuum, he will notify the customer before continuing the work. Apart from efficient operation, a regularly serviced vac is a more hygienic vac says Ray. "The house has lots of mites and other organisms within it. It's quite natural, but a vac

which is not cleaned out is a breedingground for these organisms. The filters need to cleaned out regularly, belts changed and motors checked. "If you buy a vacuum cleaner, expect it to work efficiently and then throw it out if it goes wrong, you're just throwing money away. A good machine costs over £100 nowadays, but servicing costs a fraction and can extend its life by years." The average cost of a service, including parts, is £15 for an upright and £12 for a cylinder vac, plus the VAT. Take a look at your poor, mistreated vac in the cupboard. Get back to traditional ways and give it a treat by having it serviced. You'll have a cleaner house as a result. Ray can be contacted on 881007. He is also at Greenbridge Market on Saturdays where he sells parts and can give advice.

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Have you ever been to a tribunal? Marjorie Jones, Advice Worker, West Swindon Advice Point, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, says ordinary people can take on the system and win I hadn't until I was asked to represent someone. I should explain that I was 'working' as a volunteer at the West Swindon Advice Point. When I moved here several years ago I decided that as an old age pensioner I did not want to sit and let life pass onby. After making some enquiries I met Pam Pixton who introduced me to the West Swindon Family Project. I wanted to be useful and they wanted volunteers to help. After looking around I decided the Advice Point was just what I wanted. I went on the local training course, run by Thamesdown Law Centre and sat in on regular session at the Project. Time soon passed and I found myself 'taking the chair', advising people about DHSS benefits, housing problems and debts. If I had any doubts there were experienced colleagues to help me and the Thamesdown Advice Network just

a phone call away. Then came the tribunal! Despite not having done one before I felt that as a teacher who had taught before Her Majesty's Inspectorate I could dolt. I made sure of my facts, checked the textbooks and prepared my case. On the day I could see my preparation was worthwhile. I won! Last year the Advice Point helped hundreds of people claim money they were entitled to. We spent hours on the phone to DHSS and council departments negotiating and persuading on behalf of local residents. We assisted people with debts to manage their money and sort out their payments and most of all listened. If you would like help with a tribunal or to become a volunteer advice worker then contact either the West Swindon Family Project on 871303 or the Thamesdown Advice Network on 486926

GREEN TENDENCIES Can bank now taking deposits West Swindon now has a central can bank at the car park AWest Swindon Centre, nextto the bright orange paper bank. Aluminium and steel drinks cans can be deposited for seperatiori and recycling. Anchor Foods are sponsoring the bank and have nominated the children's charity CALM to receive the interest from can deposits. Aluminium cans are also collected by Windmill, Westlea and Greendown Schools and by Westlea playgroup on a Wednesday morning. '3 LP-

Green themes in first children's play festival Two days of environmental events Greendays - are being planned in July for parents and children, one in Westlea (on Wed. 3 July), the other in Shaw (Thurs. 4July),as part of the first West Swindon Play Festival. The days will combine games, arts and crafts, awareness of the environment and workshops for adults in running activities with an environmental slant. They will follow a two day play camp at Southleaze Sheep Farm at the end of May. Sessions take place on each Greenday, at 1.30pm for school children, then between 6.30pm and 8.30pm for parents who work. Anybody who would like to learn more about the importance of play to the development of children and how environmental themes can be used in a positive and stimulating way can take part. There will be free under fives care on each day. Contact play development worker Paul Ryan on 693787 for information on how to book a place. The Play Festival is being organised by the Thamesdown Play Service, Friends of Junior Fools and the Octobus project with help from lots of local volunteers and schools.

TV films the green in Greendown A local school's interest in environmental issues is to be featured in a BBC television programme. Following on from a 'Green Day' in 1990, staff at Greendown School are planning a week of activities on the 'People and the Planet' theme in early July. Speakers, trips, outdoor pursuits, drama, art work and elections for the school council are some of the wide range of projects which will involve all 800 students. Schools TV producer Edwina Vardey has been filming staff from different subjects working to develop the programme of activities for the week. "Greendown is the only example I've found where teachers from different subject areas are working across the curriculum to develop environmental education," she said. The film crew will return to the school in July to see the planning put into practice.

Efficient heat for family A Westlea family who installed solar heating in early 1990 are so convinced by it that they are making a business out of making houses more efficient.

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The Link interviewed Melvin and Jo Collins in March last year, when the picture above was taken. At the time they were unhappy about consuming the world's fossil fuels and nuclear energy and were taking advantage of the sun's free energy. Over twelve months later they have cut theirgas billby 40% to 50%. They had to cancel the standing payment with the gas board because they were receiving a rebate. "We're very impressed by the results," said Melvin. "The panels keep our family of five supplied with all our hot water needs from April to October and there is solar gain on bright winter days." Melvin, who is a dry lining installer and plasterer by trade, has also become involved in property renovation and has developed a 'thermal conversion package' for the houses he works on. By installing solar panels and central heating at the same time, as well as double glazing and insulated wall lining, he can offer energy efficiency at a reasonable price. Having researched the market, Melvin is now able to provide advice on solar panel systems and can install a basic system from ÂŁ1,500, about half the price of others commercially available. Melvin will provide a free survey and estimate on solar panel installations. His number is 881425.

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Link Centre Charity Market - Sat. 15 June There are bargains galore at the stalls arranged by a variety of community groups at the monthly charity market. (The market takes place on the third Saturday of the month with the exclusion of August and December). To book a stall, telephone the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234. The next dates are 20 July, 21 September, 19 October.

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Visit a Sheep Farm on your doorstep Sheep milking daily 'Sheep Shearing every weekend 'Pets corner - Ducks. Hens, Donkeys, Pony, Calves, Pigmy Goat REFRESHMENTS IN OUR NEW CAFE • Picnic & play area •Maze 'Goats & Sheeps Milk, Yoghurt & Cheese Open Thursday to Monday 230pm - 530pm Party bookings Tues. & Wed. (discounts offered) Southleaze Sheep & Goat Farm (turn right off Telford Way, behind Texas DIV off Great Western Way) Tel: 523134

Jam packed at Lydiard The free attractions of Lydiard Park are greater than ever and there are worries that it has reached saturation point. On some weekends last summer well over 1,500 cars would pour into the park and sometimes bus loads of people arrive from fa r afield outside Thamesdown. With people walking and cycling there as well, there could be 4,000 to 6,000 people in the park at peak times. More people means more erosion on footpaths, greater wear and tear on equipment, more dog mess and more litter to clear up. Lydiard Park will soon be conducting a traffic count to monitor more closely the number of people visiting the park, but in the longer term what might be done. Head Ranger Ivan Robbins said an events programme was being organised to get people to visit other sites of interest. 'There are walks, talks and visits organised in a number of wildlife and conservation areas in and around Thamesdown. Hopefully these will take some of the pressure off the park and I suppose there will be some self-regulation. If people know the park is going to be too crowded, they will come at other times or be attracted elsewhere." A booklet outlining the environment events programme this sum-

Ivan Robbins, directing the crowds mer is available from Neil Hillier at Thamesdown Parks Service on 493546.

Book of local walks Thamesdown Council Parks Service has produced a welcome booklet which gives straightforward guidance on twenty walks in and around Swindon. Some are close-bothers are a car drive away. All are described in detail, with a map, points of interest to note and a convenient places for refreshment. Get out there and take the air with this useful publication available at .95 from bookshops, the InformationCentreand many Thamesdown Councils recreation facilities.

Signposting open spaces

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Ruth Sharpe compares the new 'antique style' signposts with the modern and boring Pedestrians in the Westlea area will baseat Blunsdon station right round have remarked on the pleasant 'an- to Coate Water. The route will be tique style' signposts that have ap- officially opened in June after many peared recently. years of cooperative work between Retaining the feel of Swindon's Thamesdown Council and local railway heritage, thirty signposts conservation volunteers. have been individually cast and Three leaflets were published last painted in green and gold to direct month describing different sections walkers and cyclists to a variety of of the route and the Allied Dunbar points on the River Ray Parkway. Conservation Volunteers showed off The nine mile route around the their tree planting work on the West west and south side of Swindon al- Swindon section on 19 May. The leaflets can be obtained from lows people to get from the Swindonand Cncklade Railway Society's Thamesdown Parks Service.

(50U ( ABOUT Think Global, Act Local - in Sparcells - Public meeting 12 June

Summer fun for friends

The Company Company has over Swindon based introduction agency The Company Company is organis- 1,200 members on its books and takes ing an exciting programme of social a personal approach to them. Every by Ruth Sharpe, Trainee Countryside Field Qificer Sparcells Community Wildlife Area, planned, managed and enjoyed by events for its members. The dates person who applies to join is met by coordinator Diane Willows to disSparcells residents . . . What? Where? Who? How? - You may well ask! and events are: cuss their interests and needs. A lot Thursday 20 June Many Sparcells residents are Jet-ski/BarBQatCotwoldWaterPark of effort is also put into organising aware of the 'wild area down by the social events which help introducFriday 5 July bridge over the river and the railtions along. Charity Disco and Dinner way line. Thamesdown Borough So, foranybody who is unattached Tuesday 30 July Council, in partnership with some and is looking for a way to make Jazz evening and supper Sparcells residents are now offering contact with a group of friends, The Wednesday 14 August all local people the opportunity to Company Company is a good place Superbowl at Shaw Ridge adopt the area as a Community to start. They can be contacted on Friday 23 August Wildlife Area and to plan and Swindon 487761. Charity Disco and Dinner manage it to provide a better recreation facility and make it better for wildlife. This really does give local people the chance to practically help improve the local environment for the benefit of all, to learn about conserHELP KEEP THE UNWANTED ELEMENTS OUT! vation, meet new people and enjoy Pictured above is Sue Talbot from Stenness Close who was horrified the fresh air. In the space of a few years the area oneday to see council workers about UPVC/ALUMINIUM & HARDWOOD around Sparcells has changed dra- to remove a perfectly solid foot WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT matically, from quiet farmland to an bridge over the Sparcells stream. A bit of persuasion to delay any urban area. Because so much HOME EXTENDERS & TRADITIONAL STYLE CONSERVATORIES ' ' countryside has been lost it is in- immediate action and a lot of telUPVC MAINTENANCE FREE CLADDING, creasingly important to help and to ephone calls saw the bridge preFASCIA, SOFFIT AND GUTTERING served and Ruth Sharpe on her enjoy what is remaining. No If you would like to find out how doorstep asking if she would start a FOR GUARANTEED QUALITY AND VALUE Obligation you and your children can help to local conservation group. As a Quotation CALL SECURIGLAZE create 'Sparcells Community Wild- World Wildlife Fund for Nature & Advice T (0793) 771288 life Area' please come along to the member, Sue decided to think local public meeting at Sparcells commu- and get involved. She's hoping that many more nity centre on Wednesday 12Juneat 7pm, and bring your friends. If you Sparcells resident's will agree with cannot make the meetingand would her that the wildlife area is worth still like to help, ring the River Ray restoring and protecting, and will Countryside Officeon693787ex 159. come to the meeting on 12 June.

Sparcells Open Air Fun Day On Sunday 23 June there will be a family fun afternoon at the wildlife area by the stream where there will be childrens environmental games, walks and a barbecue (bring your own food) - See you there.

MAD DOGS & ENGLISHMEN STAY COOL IN THE MIDDAY SUN WITH:

Five gardens to visit over the summer Claire Beaton suggests five gardens close to Swindon which are worth a visit

It is a warm, sunny Sunday, you want to get out in the fresh air.. why not visit one of the amazing gardens that are open just for the day under the National Gardens Scheme. The following are gardens I plan tovisit. Allareopenbetween2.00pm and 6.00pm and charge between £1.50 and £2 for adults, £1 for children (or admit them free of charge). 1. Barnsley House on Saturday I June. On that date I reckon the laburnum walk will be in full blossom. There are so many ideas on show in this garden, it just must be visited. NE of Cirencesteron A433/ B4425. 2. Poulton Gardens. Again close to Cirencester, this time on the A417, this village has organised 7 of its gardens to open on 16 June. They should be colourful with roses and clematis coming into their own and the border plants in full flower.

3. Sezincote on 30 June. Something different is hidden here, in the middle of the Cotswolds, SW of Moreton -in-Marsh along the A44. The water garden is an exotic forest stream overlooked by an off-spring of Brighton Pavilion. 4. Cirencester Gardens. In more urban surrounding are 5 gardens in Cirencester that are opening on 14 July. If you thought your garden too small to bother with, come and see what romantic oases of calm these gardens are. 5. West Kington Gardens. 8 miles NNW of Chippenham, there are 2 gardens open on 8 September. By September, all the perennials will be overflowing theirbeds and tubs and the golden sunlight will make their colours glow. Absolute magic.

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Letters to The Link Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ The compost bin arguement - round 3

Dogs

It's N.I.M.B.Y.' Time Again!

From K Stevenson, East leaze

From Linda Lee, Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane.

From R Leverton, Parham Walk, Grange Park

Ref. 'Stop picking on dogs' letters, May Link I think J Hodges is missing the point of people complaining about dogs. The concern, particularly about dogs mess, is not just that it is disgusting to step in, but a very real health hazard. The dog roundworm Toxocara canis, is very common and 'almost all puppies are born with toxocara; they and kittens can catch toxocara through their mothers milk.' It can only be controlled through regular worming. Consequently irresponsible owners who either don't worm their dogs or chuck them out to run wild as strays,are exposing others, especially children, to the risks of being infected with the worm. What happens? Well 'Once swallowed, toxocara eggs release larvae into the intestine .. they travel through the body until they die, which may take several years.. symptoms ..can include stomach upset and pain, headache, sore throat, asthma, listlessness (and if it reaches the eyes).. cause sight problems and in a few cases permanent blindness. - information and quotes from the lea flet 'Toxocara' produced by Hoechst Pet Care. The point is, those responsible for, say a child being blinded by dog worms, are not traceable, especially in the absence of dog registration, so cannotbe made to pay for ruining another's life. I would make these further comments: Although street lights with exposed wires are dangerous, I have yet to come across one that would jump out and attack anyone! Horse dung can be useful, as any keen gardener can tell you, it makes excellent compost. Motorcycles have registration numbers, so at least in theory, those breaking the law on them can be traced. Children can be supervised and re-educated. Yes, vandalism can be a problem, but a vandalised tree is unlikely to make anyone ill, in normal circumstances. People are not 'picking on' dogs, but simply expressing their concern at what could so easily be a preventable health risk, especially to their children.

Remember 'Nimby' that popular acronym from the 1980's - Not In My Back Yard? It was used to refer to the dumping of nuclear and chemical waste. Now Nimby is alive and thriving in West Swindon. This time the problem is grass clippings! Every spring and summer piles of clippings (and other garden refuse such as soil and bricks) are dumped in the hedgerows along the side of the footpaths. Thamesdown Council have spent time, effort and money preserving and maintaining old hedgerows in this area. These hedgerows provide a pleasant reminder of the past as well as providing vital shelter in a disappearing landscape for small animals, plants and insects. When people unthinkingly dump grass clippings there, they may be ridding their own back yards of unwanted 'waste' but what is it doing to the hedgerows? Grass clippings act as a mulch which will prevent anything else growing around the base of the hedge. Plants and wild flowers will be unable to grow, insects like butterflies and bees lose a feeding ground and the hedgerow will become barren and unattractive. So gardeners of West Swindon, please do not let your pride in your surroundings end at your garden gate. There are two good alternatives beside taking your grass to the tip. You could place it around the base of roses, runner beans and other garden plants as valuable mulch to enrich the soil and prevent weeds growing. or, you could telephone us here at Lower Shaw Farm, in Old Shaw Lane as we may be able to use a certain amount to mulch our large organic vegetable garden, mix with chicken manure to make a potent fertiliser, or layer on our compost heaps with household and garden waste. We cannot accept grass treated with weedkiller. It is important to telephone us first - we could not cope with mountains of clippings suddenly arrivingon the doorstep! The number forLower Shaw Farm is 771080.

1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts Open Day Sat. 8 June 12noon - 5pm Sun. 9 June 12noon - 4.30pm

Thamesdown Animal Sanctury Animal Awareness Week Sponsored Dog Walk at Coate Water

See what Scouts do at a mock summer camp set up In the grounds of Purton House, near Purton Church

4 miles. Sun. 9 June, 10am Tel: 783837 for sponsor forms and further details

I do not wish to labour the point, but I do feel I must respond to the letter from Mr Cretchley criticising the article in theApril issueofTheLink, regarding the so-called clean-ups of Greendown Copse and will attempt to answer his points in order. 1. Support from local residents - I have never seen hordes of people actually supporting these clean-ups. At the last one I only saw about 7 people which included 3 councillors, one prospective councillor and Mr Cretchley. 2. The compost tip and 'No Dumping' signs were erected without any consultation with local residents. My four neighbours in Parham Walk certainly were not and we live adjacent to and overlooking the copse. Other local residents I have spoken to in the copse were also not consulted and are pretty disgusted with the situation. 3 & 4. Whether the copse is cleaner or not is debatable. I have never seen 'bulky rubbish' (ie mattresses etc) it is mostly paper and cans. What we have now is a compost tip which has turned into a civic amenity for people to be encouraged to dump rubbish. The actual tip as constructed is about 4'6" by 5'. I measured the total rubbish on 24 May and it was 32' long! Mr Cretchley mentions educating people ree garding usage and councillor Pixton said he was looking for suggestions from local residents on how to manage the tip. Well, we did not ask for it, we were not consulted and we don't want it as it is presently. If we need educating and councillor Pixton does not know what to do, then why was it put there in the first place? 5. Local councillors support - let's face it, the whole operation seems to be for the purpose of collecting political brownie points. Every so often councillors turn up, have theirphotographs taken, and then disappear until the next time they need publicity. For instance, one political circular that came through my letter box just before the local elections recently mentioned Greendown copse clean-up no less than 5 times! Don't misunderstand my motives MrCretchley - I don't misunderstand yours. I am for a cleaner copse and for environmental issues. Thamesdown Borough labour was used to erect the signs etc. so why can't Borough labour be employed to empty the tip every two weeks or so? This may stop the smell of rotting vegetation that wafts gently across my garden from the tip. The next thing is we'll have rats infesting the area. Also why aren't the young trees planted 5 years ago being husbanded? Every year they are swamped by nettles and cannot grow and everybody gets stung as the nettles overgrow the paths. If there was genuine consultation and discussion, if there was evidence of genuine environmental aspirations, if local councillors put resources behind their actions it could be different - but I refuse to be just another hypocrite.

The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost ÂŁ3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon

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

Experienced Childminder in Shaw has vacancy for one child under five years. Tel: 875505

Tel: Sandy 0793 875665

Holiday Cottage, Devon

Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096

Comfortable cottage sleeps 415 in pretty village in Dartmoor National Park. Details available on request. Sorry no pets. Phone 872282 or after 9 June 081 868 8478.

Mrs White, Freshbrook

Railway workers wanted About three miles from the centre of West Swindon, a band of volunteers are preserving some of Swindon's steam railway heritage. The photographs here show a range of the dozens of different activities that volunteers can be involved with at The Swindon & Cricklade Railway Society. For those who have never been to the Society's base at Blunsdon station on one of their open weekends, it's a bit of a surprise to see steam puffing up behind the trees and hedgerows. This must have been what it was like 'in the old days' when steam ruled. Families have great fun watching the driver shovelling coal into the engine before boarding the old carriages for a ride up and down the two miles of line which have been laid over the last few years. Several more miles are planned, as well as a new station and a number of buildings. The Society relies on its volunteers to do nearly all the restoration and building work, and the present members are looking for more people to join them in their desire to recreatea living memory of steamin Swindon. There are lots of jobs to done which Keeping shop, Betty Millar, society secretary and manager of public relations

would suit men, women and people with disabilities. Painting, laying track, carpentry, metalwork, working in the cafe or shop, site maintenance, restoring engines are just a few of the opportunities. Working on the railway offers good fun, recreation and team spirit as well as a sense of contribution to the community. To find out more about helping out at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway, drop in any weekend at Blunsdon station, on the Cricklade mad north ofShaw,or call Duncan Thom on 873344. Terry Bird, third generation railway driver working on his own diesel engine

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

When the going gets tough....

Worsley Road Will give YOU

a warm welcome Surtriny lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone Rev. Peter Grainger on 490498. Church Office, Tel: 873050

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