June 1999 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

THE

No. 205 • June 1999 • Circulation 20,000

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crossing on Whitehill Way, Westlea, is now in operation, nearly three years after 12 year old Ashley Johnson, left, was knocked down there and later died. On page 28 Diane Johnson from Toothill thanks all those who signed her petition to get Swindon Council to build the pelican crossing, and talks about her life after losing her son.

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Explorers to give talks about North Pole trip Two Wiltshire explorers have raised several hundreds pounds for Swindon children's cancer charity CALM, and they are keen to help even more by giving slide shows for schools and community groups.

Richard Bull fromHaydon Wick and John Billett took up The Link suggestion that they support CALM on their five week quest to the Magnetic North Pole, as Call for advice on: reach well as raising money for the MitLetting your home chemp Trust which provides holi• Buy to let and let to buy days for disadvantaged children. The six person team sponsored • Rent, legal & household by The Gadget Shop spent 30 days insurance services on the ice during April in some of • Free internet advertising the most extreme conditions imand listing in our aginable. nationwide branches "It's almost impossible to deJohn and Richard at the Magentic North • scribe the cold and its effects on • Service individually Pole With a photo from the April Link the body," said Richard. "The temtailored to your perature was never higher than The two explorers carried a requirements -20° and dropped to -50° in the CALM flag and because Roy and • Free information pack highest winds. We couldn't move Marilyn Brenton had raised the on request on four days, because the storms most money from signatures on it, their daughter Louise was chosen were so bad. "It was a real struggle to get out to receive the very special polar Property to rent of our sleeping bag every morn- Princess Diana Beanie Baby. Call for details ing. Everything would be frozen, Louise was diagnosed with leueyelashes, your boots, the inside kaemia in October 1996, on the Phone or fax: of the tent. On the ice pulling our first day of Roy's new job shortly sledges, we would stop for 10 min- after the family had moved to 01249 760670 utes in each hour to keep our flu- Calne from Kent. ids up and then spend the next half " We had no family or friends in or 01793 601631 hour trying to warm up again, even the area, but Don heard of us E-mail: wearing multiple layers." through the CALM nurse and came wiltshire@belvoirgroup.com Apart from minor frostbite and to see us the next day," said http://www.belvoirgroup.com blisters, the team returned safely. Marilyn. "We've been so thankful

B E LV O I R

for the support and advice from CALM during Louise's two year chemotherapy which was very hard. She has been off treatment for six months, but has monthly blood tests." The charity is run entirely by volunteers. As costs are very low, all donations go towards helping children and their parents. Events are organised to bring families together and CALM maintains two caravans so that families can take a holiday at short notice, in breaks between treatment. Chairman Don Macarthur said, "we greatly appreciate Richard and John's efforts to raise money and awareness of CALM. Their commitment is tremendous." Book a slide show The two intrepid explorers are willing to visit schools and groups, set up their tents, show slides and talk about their North Pole trip, in return for a donation to CALM. Call Richard Bull on 0402 021919 to arrange a time. Play golf for CALM cash There is a big charity golf day at Wrag Barn country club on 17 June. Turn to page 30 for details.

"You're not going to bully my child" Parents, have you ever found yourself 1. Concerned about your child being bullied or bullying? 2. Wondering, painfully, if your son or daughter has the self-esteem and confidence it takes to be successful? 3. Wishing your child had greater ability to listen ... to focus and concentrate

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The Link

ne • June 1999

Are we ready to become a city? ome people think Swindon should be awarded city status at the S turn of the century. But there has been little debate aboutwhether this would be a good thing from the point of view of the people who live in the town. We want to hear your views? The argument in favour seems to be based on acquiring prestige and kudos, and enhancing the standing of business. The timing would be good. Swindon celebrates its centenary as a borough next year. Yet, there are niggling questions as to whether people feel comfortable with the idea of becoming a city - just yet. Do we honestly believe in it and will we feel better about the place in which we live? Swindon Council has made a virtue of having the lowest community charge for any unitary authority in the country. But for a prosperous town aspiring to city status, is this really something to be proud of? Both nationally and locally, fine words are pronounced about social inclusion, partnership and sustainable development that improves the quality of life for all. The Link has recently reported on a number of issues which throw up questions as whether we are ready to become a city. Family centres received grant cuts in 1998. This year they were given barely two weeks notice of a meeting to decide which one would have to close, with no prior consultation. Groups hiring rooms in the Link Centre's Community Suite have had rates more than doubled without notice. Vital voluntary sector organisations such as the Well Woman Centre, Relate, Age Concern and Voluntary Action Swindon have seen funding cut or withdrawn.

The town has never lacked vision. The Mechanics Institution was promoting social inclusion over a century ago. The worker run Medical Fund Society paved the way for the National Health Service. There is a long tradition of voluntary groups catering for need. The Link Centre combined arts, community and leisure facilities in a a deliberate and innovative way 15 years ago. The Mechanics is now a derelict shell, voluntary bodies struggle for survival and local groups are being priced out of the Link Centre. Link Arts is being turned into a keep fit centre. Some of the elements of being a city are in place. But has the vision gone out of focus? The town's rapid growth has created discontinuity and a sense of unease about getting larger. Perhaps it is time to take stock about what it means to be a successful, big town, rather than uncertainty about being a small city. What is your perspective? Write or email us at the address below, and look at our internet site www.swindonlink.com

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E17 invited to Party in the Park The Wiltshire Festival pop party in Lydiard Park is going to be even better than expected. Top London band E17 has been booked at the last moment and will replace ABC. Turn to page 21 for booking information.

Kingsdown Crematorium ..

OPEN DAY Sunday June 27th 1999

IN[inkMdgaime Published by West Swindon Publications Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: linkmagazine@compuse rv e.com Internet: www.swindonlink.com

Publisher/Editor: Roger Ogle General enquiries: Tel: (01793) 872282 Jenni Fowler Advertising:

Copy date for July edition: 12 June Published: 26 June

Tour of Facilities from 10.30am until 2.30pm Open Air Service of Th an ksgiving and Remembr an ce at 3.00pm

Copy for August: 12 July

"The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in Janua ry 1994."

For further details please contact Martin Day Tel. (01793) 822259 Se rv ice prepared on behalf of Swindon Borough Council Community and Leisure Se rvices Department.

Tel: (01793) 872531

Editorial: General Gina Dennis Tel: (01793) 849518 North Swindon Tanya Parkinson Tel: (01793) 705105 Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of adve rt isements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an adve rt iser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Jill

S^wmoon

Kingsdown Crematorium Upper Stratton Swindon

The Link Magazine • June 1999

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Seventy six women could find themselves in the Guiness Book of Records after pulling a 55 ton Hercules at RAF Lyneham on 16 May. They raised £2,000 for the Swin- mosphere. Most of the women don Well Women Centre which had never met each other and the provides free, confidential advice majority were new to the Well on medical and health matters. Women Centre." "It was surprisingly easy once Swindon Mayor Joyce Brunt we got going," said organiser Beryl verified the pull which has been Bowles, above centre. "Wewereactu- submitted to the record book. If ally running as we crossed the 100 accepted it could stand for some yard mark. We could have taken time. RAF Lyneham is not acceptoff, there was such a fantastic at- ing any more pull bids until 2002.

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The Well Women Centre Swindon holds its Annual General Meeting on Friday 25 June, 12.30pm in the Health Hydro, Milton Road. Following reports of activities during the last year, nurse Jan Wright will talk about the development of primary care groups. Refreshments will be provided after the meeting. To become a member of the centre, or to find out more, call 511064.

Cultural venues revue gets

underway A research project by consultants commissioned by Swindon Council to discover what kind of venues would best accommodate facilities for Swindon people is now taking place.

Changes, replacements and reinstatements The local council elections on 6 May saw the Judith Peppitt, emphatically retake the Freshbrook ward for the Liberal Democrats. In Toothill Peter Mallinson for Labour replaced deselected councillor Maurice Fanning. In Haydon Wick, Labour's Kelvin King retained his seat. In the machinations for the leadership of Swindon Borough Council, coun. Sue Bates, right, who lives in Freshbrook and rep-

One venue the research team will not see. The Link Arts Studio closed in February to be turned into a gym

Chairman of the council's leisure services committee coun. Derique Montaut said, "arts and culture in Swindon is already vibrant. What we need to look at now is whether existing facilities provide fitting outlets and what is needed for the future in order that

culture and entertainment has adequate room to flourish." A public consultation exercise will take place in the autumn.

resents Gorse Hill, returned as leader, a year after she was deposed. .__,r£lv' . She said,"the biggest challenges for the council will be modernisation of its structures, making them simpler and more accessible to the people of Swindon." She announced the setting up of a standards committee made up of councillors and members of the public, with a chairperson independent of the council, to which people can take complaints.

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The Link Maqazine • June 1999

Swindon aid provides comfort for Kosovars Five truck-loads of aid for Kosovar refugees were despatched to Albania in May and more donations will be welcomed in June. Over 500 cubic metres of materiCommenting on the generosity The collection will continue in June, als has been collected by Upper of Swindon people church elder but opening times may change. Kosovo events Stratton Baptist Church in Green Chris Butcher said, "we've all been • The most up to date information Kosovo Aid at Oasis Leisure Centre Road, stretching their resources to overwhelmed by the response, on the efforts by Upper Stratton 30 May, start time to be confirmed the limit. Volunteers, including a Many people have said they are Baptist Church can be seen 0: Midge Ure, Mike Scott, Howard Jones, number of Kosovar's asylum seek- glad a centre is available in Swin- www.usbc.freeserve.co.uk/ John Otway + others. ers, who have arrived in the town don as it allows them to do more refugee.htm Tickets: £15. Info: 01672 541015 since last September, have packed than just give money." • USBC info, line, tel: 538851 Summer Ball: The Chinese Experience the trucks tightly with mattresses, The items are trucked to a refu• Items can be left atToothill Com25 June. Tickets: £25 from 877888 clothing, baby equipment and toys, gee camp in the Albanian town of £10 will be donated to Oxfam food and toiletries. Berat where missionary Dudley munity Centre, Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Using a storage barn located on Powell organises distribution. a hill near Purton, it is ironic that If donating items, please conthose loading the aid can see the sider that the church has an urgent tail fins of NATO aircraft, just six need for hard cash to pay for the miles miles across the Thames river trucks to get the aid out to Albania. valley at Fairford, where service- Each trip costs nearly £3,000. men load up Cruise missiles for The church is also appealing to raids on Serbia. business for corporate donations.

After school children help out Members of Toothill After School Club spent the afternoon on 5 May packing shoe boxes with items collected for refugee children. Each contained food, toiletries, toys and sweets. Donna Lewis said she was sad to see all the children on telvision with nothing. Brother Dale said he had put a teddy into his shoebox. Someoft/wafter school club children with theirgifts, rearfrom left, Dale Lewis, Lianne Mead, Donna Lewis. Front, Chantelle Haywood, Alexandra Baldwin, Paris Steernson, Charlotte Francis

Volunteers loading the first aid truck on 30 April

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Cyclists take up challenge Martin Dearing, 11, right below, and Christopher Ashcroft, 10, of Grange Park raised over £200 when they cycled ten miles around West Swindon in late April. They organised their ride after an assembly about the plight of the Kosovar refugees at their school, Oliver Tomkins Juniors. With help from mum Ruth Dearing, they delivered a car load of baby items, toiletries and food to Upper Stratton Baptist Church.

Ukraine Dentaid trip on Freshbrook dentist Brendon Ball is well advanced in planning his trip to the Ukraine with fellow dentist Richard Swift in late July. They have collected a large amount of material and equipment which they will install. They will then provide training to local dentists on how it should be used. As chairman of the local dental committee and representative on the General Dental Services Committee, Brendon has been able to publicise his trip and has been overwhelmed by donations from other dentists and suppliers. "Being dental equipment, many of the items are small but the value is very high," he said. "Most of it is in excellent condition; we have enough to equip a small hospital." Brendon decided to help Dentaid after reading articles about their work in The Link over the last two years. He and Richard plan to give talks to other dentists and local groups on their return.

WESTLEA

Westlea School grounds project

Woman doctor joins practice

As they wait to discover whether they will be chosen as overall regional winner in the Environmental Youth Awards, volunteers with the Westlea School Grounds Project have been hard at work.

Westlea's Ashington House Surgery has a new woman GP, with special interests in women's health, family planning and geriatrics. Adele Steptoe, 35, started work on 1 May joining the practice as an additional partner. This will allow it to open up to new patients, easing the demand for doctors in West Swindon. The practice is also pleased to have appointed a woman doctor as there are still too few female GPs to meet the needs of the high number of young families in West Swindon. Having trained in Bath, Dr Steptoe spent 14 months in general practice in Australia and six months in an accident and emergency department. For the last four and a half years she has been r--------1 a GP Principal in Cheltenham. Dr Step toe and her husband are EARN A SECOND busy setting up their new home in INCOME IN YOUR Swindon and tackling its garden. They are keen walkers, accompaSPARE TIME nied by their dogs, a cocker-span£50-U00 iel and a cross-breed. She is looking forward to getCURRENTLY BEING ting to know her patients and says, EARNED, MANY ON I "I have been made very welcome MUCH MORE. in the short time I have been here."

With support from Thames Wa- red campion, ox-eye daisies, ragter and Nationwide, a path has ged robin, cowslips, purple loosebeen built through a marsh area strife - and 600 snowdrops. and the environmental club have Trevor Carlton, parent environplanted wetland species including mental co-ordinator, has supervised the planting of a beech hedge, left. "This area is for environmental studies, reading, writing, to sit and listen to the birds and just enjoy being outside." Four boxes have also been installed for nesting birds. The next project is a wild summer meadow, for which a plot has already been set aside. The school won the Wiltshire County Environmental Youth Award earlier in the year and the presentation takes place at the

Royal Bath & West of England Show in the first week of June. The regional winner will also be announced at this time.

War graves site In response to last month's article about the Westlea School trip to the Normandy D-Day sites, which gave ten year old Danny White the chance visit his great uncle's grave at the Bayeux military cemetary, John Doyle from Nine Elms e mailed The Link to pass on the internet address of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Q www.cwgc.org Those killed in World War I and II can be looked for in the database. John points out that it is a heavily used site and can be slow.

Westlea School Summer Fayre Saturday 26 June, 1.30pm Stalls and attractions Mass balloon launch with pr iz es £1 per balloon, on sale from 21 June

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Pupils good as gold to have a good time

Everyone welcome at two fetes on Saturday 26 June Fresh brook School Summer Fayre, 12 noon Dazzling displays • Sensational stalls Amazing attractions Spot prizes during the day Grand prize draw

Pupils at Freshbrook School are t ry ing hard to be on their best behaviour following the introduction of a conduct improvement scheme called Golden Time.

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Every Friday between 2.15pm and 2.45pm, staff, teaching assistants and parents run activities which children have chosen on the previous Monday. These include football, hockey, parachute games, quilling, calligraphy, sewing and chess. But if they have misbehaved during the week, they might miss some or all of their activity in 'time out,' and have to sit quietly in a classroom watching a clock until their penalty time is up. The school introduced a'Golden Rules' scheme last September and children collect good behaviour

well done, first warning, second warning and time out. Good behaviour is rewarded. Poor behaviour leads through warnings to time-out. This builds from five minutes through to the loss of the whole half-hour's Golden Time activities. The scheme, which started after Easter, is proving a great success. "Behaviour has improved no end," says Deputy Head Jane Parsons. "It's still early days, but it's working really well." Golden fin in a parachute game, from left, lack Mutlow, Alicja Nowak, Sean

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Although still the smallest school in West Swindon, the netballers from Windmill Hill know how to play a big game. Throughout the winter they won years that teacher Pam Nayar has all their nine matches in the West been coach. Swindon Schools league which "They have a great team spirit includes St Mary's at Purton, notch- and worked really hard," she said. ing up 102 goals and letting in only "Sadly they are all in year 6 and are moving onto secondary school. But fourteen. The team has now won the we're hoping our year 5s can clo league on four occasion in the eight well next year." Mrs Nayar with her champion girls, from left, Emma Murcutt, Eleanor Leighfield, Vicki Hearn. Rear, Kayley Elliott, Zoe Hughes, Sam Dell, Zoe Mead, Kaylie Hill

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TOOTH ILL

Surprise for late council tax payers Ron and Millie Portsmith from Toothill have made history by being the 37,472nd Swindon household to pay their council tax by direct debit - and were rewarded with a bouquet and a bottle of bubbly.

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When Derek Carter, Chief OfThe figure is significant because it represents half the homes in the ficer for Customer Services, borough that have to pay council knocked on their door, the tax. The presentation, made by the Portsmiths were worried that they Mayor of Swindon, councillor might be in trouble. Millie said, "I Brian Ford, draws attention to the was a bit shocked when he told me benefits of payment by direct debit. Ron and Millie moved to Queenborough over 20 years ago and paid their council tax by taking cash to the Post Office. But a recent holiday caused them to miss a payment, upsetting their domestic budget. So they decided to make the move to direct debit, saving themselves time, effort and trips to the Post Office.

Annual meeting Toothill Community Centre holds its annual general meeting on Thursday 17 June, 7.30pm. All residents of Toothill are invited to attend, hear reports of last year's activities including the annual accounts, and to elect next year's management committee. Those who have paid £1 membership of the centre are eligible to vote. For details about joining, call into the centre on weekday mornings, or telephone 614492.

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he was from the council as I thought he had come to tell me off because we had paid late. I never thought we might be getting an award; it was a lovely surprise." Mr Carter said there are benefits all round. "Paying by direct debit is not something people should be afraid of. It's convenient, saves time and reduces the amount of public money spent on administration." For details about paying council tax by direct debit, call the customer services section at Swindon Council on 463000. Left: Ron and Millie Portsmith receive their surprise from Mayor Brian Ford with Derek Carter, right, and Chris Flatt and Andy Day from the council tax collection department

Surgery underway Construction at Toothill Village Centre on the long awaited building for the Phoenix practice started on 25 May. We will carry a photograph and interview with Dr Swinyard next month.

Chair pusher needed A Toothill woman in her early 40s who has to use a wheelchair as a result of arthritis needs someone to take her out and about. She would like to be able to go to Asda and perhaps out for a 'walk'. Expenses will be covered. If you can spare an hour or two to assist, contact Pam Pixton on 465462 who will put you in touch.

Children take the walking bus Children make their way daily to Toothill After School Club by means of an innovative walking 'bus'. Adult volunteers have been issued with reflective jackets by the Swindon Council's Road Safety Officer, Margaret Tester. Theypick up children from Oliver Tomkins and Toothill primary schools and ensure their safe route to the club. She would welcome enquiries from parents and carers interested in adopting the idea and can be contacted on 466399.

Cut the confusion The chairman of a residents association in Toothill is furious about incorrect claims made by candidates in the recent elections. Norman Wood, chairman of the Victoria Court residents' association, right, which takes up issues for elderly people living in Western Challenge housing association flats on Luddesdown Road, says the parties were guilty of confusing the people he represents. Residents have been demanding barriers on a steep footpath next to their homes as speeding cyclists create dangers for elderly pedestrians. They also want the tarmac repaired and a grit bin. The Conservatives put out a leaflet claiming that the barriers were put up as a result of their efforts. A barriers. In the end the Western letter to residents from a Labour Challenge housing association councillor refuted this, claiming paid for the barriers and improved that his persistent efforts resulted lighting over the footpath because in the barriers being installed. they were afraid for their tenants. However Norman wants it to be The cost will ultimately come out known that the whole issue has of our rents. been marked by council inaction. " We're still waiting for repairs "Little was done despite our re- to the tarmac and a grit bin as peated meetings and calls for the promised."

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

Excitement at new school view

Over sixty families took the opportunity on 8 May to look around the 240 place Peatmoor Community Primary School building, before it opens in September.

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Headteacher Terri Peacock, centre, gave tours of the empty rooms and talked about her vision for the new school. She was assisted by

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Lawrence, currently at Oliver Tomkins Junior School, and members of the govening body.

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Mrs Peacock de-

scribed how the various areas will be used and was able to show how the facilities for community groups have been kept separate from the school.

Children will be introduced to their new teachers at a meeting at Brook Field School on 5 July. In the meantime, Mrs Peacock can be contacted on 463124.

Brook Field sing for CD Fifteen children from Brook Field School spent the May Day Bank Holiday recording a musical at Moonstone Studios in Malmesbury.

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Since January, the children have been working with composer Margaret Carpenter on Giant Slayer, anew work for schools. The recording will form part of a package of materials available from Out of the Ark Music Publishers, which includes CD, tape, book and score. Margaret, who has been writing musicals for 15 years, moved toShaw from Scarborough last August. She was an infant teacher specialising in music for 20 years but had to leave the profession when she developed multiple sclerosis. Shortly after arriving in Swindon she was delighted to discover that Brook Field were performing one of her works, Piper, for their Christmas show. Having heard their performance, she asked if they would help her record a new work about David and Goliath. "It was a thrill to discover a school just around the corner with such excellent singers," she said.

Mark Johnson, Director of Out of the Ark, was full of praise for the recording. "The singing is excellent and the arrangements by Margaret's son are out of this world. We think this is a musical to hit you right between the eyes." He believes Giant Slayer, aimed at children in Keystages 2 and 3, will become a huge schools musical for the millennium. Brook Field teacher Jeanette Miller described the work as "very challenging but very catchy." It includes opportunities for two part and solo singing. She is extremely proud of the children, who worked very hard over five months. "It was a special opportunity and a real privilege to take part. They have improved tremendously and learned so much." For schools who would like to know more about Out of the Ark, a brochure and sample tape can be obtained by calling 01932 232250.

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HAYDON WICK & WOODHALL PARK

Parish council notes

Children experience evacuation

Play area improvement Youngsters now have a new slide at the King George V playing field, near Haydon Wick school.

Children in year 3 to 6 at Haydon Leigh School experienced a real taste of wartime life when they packed their cases and travelled to the safety of countryside homes.

Community Transport

Wearing identity labels and carrying suitcases, over 180 pupils recreated the journey of evacuees over 50 years ago. The children have been studying Britain since the 1930s, explained teacher Lilian Stevens. "We decided to bring an event to life in a really meaningful way. Children did their own research and decided what to wear. They

A regular band of volunteers drive the community minibus to assist senior citizens or disabled people living within the parish of Haydon Wick which includes most of Abbey Meads and Burghley Park. There are trips to Safeway, the Co-op and Asda, the Savernake Street day centre and the Haydon Centre lunch club. To book a place, or if you require transport for a private appointment, call 722446.

Evacuees on their way, front from left, Tom Grattan, Stefan Telford, Tara Newgent. Rear, Kirsten Naylor and ESA Carol Gorton

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A local drama group was devastated when one of their leading also made gas masks for the trip." members was a victim of murder Thamesdown Transport pro- victim last December. They are vided an ancient double decker, now preparing to perform a new and two new ones, for the trip to show in her memory. Swindon station where the chilThe Haydon Players are busily dren boarded a train to Kemble. rehearsing for their first show to Members of Kemble Women's be staged after the tragic death of Institute, dressed in Land Army leading actress Sarah Winrow. uniforms, holding up HaydonSarah, 18, was found dead at her leigh evacuee signs, met the party. Pinehurst home. Her boyfriend They all marched in procession was later found dead on the railpast houses decorated with ban- way line at Sparcells. She was due ners and Union Jacks to the village to have played the central charachall where a former wartime ter in the group's January pantoevacuee told of her experiences. mime, which was cancelled as a Everyone tucked into home made mark of respect. cakes afterwards. "The WI were brilliant," said Mrs Stevens. The children wrote postcards home before being escorted back to the station. During the day pupils had to write about their feelings and learnt wartime songs. Claire Henderson, 11, said, "if I was evacuated I'd miss my friends, but I've had a really exciting time." Nathan Wright, added, "it was a super day." The children will now learn about fashion and industry as part of their topic.

Club hosts amputees tournament Disabled bowlers from all over the country took part in a national tournament hosted by Haydon Wick Bowling Club on 15 May. I mproved facilities meant the bers of the British Amputees and club was chosen as sole host of this Les Autres Society. annual event attended by memPlayers of all ages used special ramps to get onto the green. They played under the rules for ableEmmanuel United Reformed bodied players but bowled from the same end during each one hour Church, Haydon Wick long match. Club secretary Barrie Smith said, 150th Anniversary "volunteer club members picked Celebration up the woods and acted as scorers. Saturday 26 June 10am-12 noon We also provided refreshments and a buffet lunch. It was a very Display of memorabilia and successful weekend." photographs

Club house set for offical opening

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Show dedicated to murder victim

Haydon Wick Bowling Club members are set to officially open their new clubhouse behind the Haydon Centre on 16 June. Building work started a year ago, thanks to a £76,000 grant from the National Lottery Charities Board and members have raised in the region of £30,000. The completed clubhouse is equipped with changing facilities, toilets and a bar. It has been specially designed to cater for disabled bowlers. Anyone interested in joining the club should contact Barrie Smith on 722972.

Sarah Winrow, as a 14 year old in a Haydon Players production pictured in the December 1994 Link

The Haydon Players will be performing the farcical play Panic Stations by Derek Benfield in front of Sarah's parents Allan and Angela Winrow. Group member Lou Carter said, "the play is very funny and very naughty; it is definitely a production Sarah would have approved of. We will be performing in her memory and any excess monies we make will go to a charity of her parent's choice." Panic Stations will be performed at Moredon Community Centre on 16, 17 and 18 June, 7.30pm. Tickets, costing £3, £2 concessions, can obtained from Lou Carter on 692123, at the community centre, or on the door. New members needed

Unfortunately Panic Stations could very well be the last production by the Haydon Players. The group, which has been running for over 10 years, are in desperate need of new members. Anyone with an interest in amateur dramatics, whether on or back stage will be welcome. Lou Carter says, "we really enjoy ourselves and it's a great way to make new friends." If you would like to know more, call Lou Carter on 692123.

NORTH SWINDON (including Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake, Taw Hill)

GPs open on-line

Planners listen to views on Haydon III

A new doctors surgery to serve people at Burghley Park development, due to open in August, can now be visited on the internet.

Following feedback and protests from local residents, Haydon Wick Parish Council and Abbey Meads Community Association, important amendments have been made to the proposed plans for the Haydon III development to be put to Swindon's planning committee in June.

Drs Peter Crouch and June Morris, above, can be visited 9 www.tawhillsurgery.com On display are plans, information about the practice philosophy and opening times when settled. There is also an opportunity to register as a patient. For those not yet on the world wide web, plans are available at the Taywood Homes Taw Hill sales centre at Burghley Park.

The objections were highlighted in the February Link and it now looks certain that the controversial proposal to make part of Lady Lane a bus only route will be dropped. The modified plans will show the road as open to all vehicles, maintaining direct access between Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads. Senior Planner Martin Trewhella said, "we listened to public opinion and have made changes to the elements of the plan which caused the most concern."

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Swindon planner Carol Bristow at the December public exhibition

Massive fitness centre proposed

These also include not closing Tadpole Lane, and a wide buffer zone between the Swanhill homes and the new district centre. Improvements to existing green space have been made and the planning department will be recommending that no houses are occupied in Haydon III until the northern orbital link road is complete.

Church Fete Abbey Meads Village Green Saturday 3 July, 12noon - 4pm Stalls, face painting, bouncy castle, live music, BBQ Proceeds to furnishings for the Church of Christ the Servant Abbey Meads. For details, call 700641.

Although originally earmarked as residential land, planners are discussing a bid by Greenalls to build a major leisure complex opposite the Motorola building at Groundwell. Plans have been submitted to turn land at Groundwell Farm into a 60 bedroom hotel. The existing Northern notes listed farm building will be conDensity objection verted into a pub and restaurant as A planning application has been part of the proposals. made for the final houses to be Dxa^ fied winter ^ 7^ec^ratur 01793 The project would include a built at Abbey Meads. large swimming pool and associ1 9ttcrlor GIXa EYtmor 1 However residents in the Hay- ated health facilities. Parking for ward Close/ Oliver Road area have 350 cars is shown on the scheme to 1 8SS099 tier lodged objections to the high den- be discussed by Swindon Counsities proposed for the 145 private cil's planning committee in the houses and 130 houses for rent. summer months. They say access traffic past their homes will be far too high, there are no play areas planned and the Building bridges houses are too close to overhead power lines. again St Andrews shops some way off Repairs have at last begun on the Residents at St Andrews Ridge, footbridge across Thamesdown already feeling cut off from ameni- Drive, Abbey Meads. ties will not see their local centre The bridge will be partially dethis side of the millennium. molished by contractors Freysinnet Developers are in the process of Ltd. who have put up covers over designing a local shop, nursery and the bridge to reduce noise and dust. pub for the commercial site off The Haydon Development ComSalzgitter Drive. pany said it would be working to make sure that roads in the vicinShop refused permission Lidl supermarkets have been re- ity are kept clean. Traffic flow along Thamesdown fused planning permission to build on the road side commercial site Drive will be restricted and signal opposite The Friary, at Lady Lane. control will be in place for 15 weeks. For your retirement living, we have vacancies An appeal to the Secretary of It is anticipated that the road will State for the Environment is being be closed over the weekend of 17 at Brain Court, Stratton St. Margaret and Windmill and 18 July when the central strucconsidered. Court, Freshbrook, Swindon. ture will be replaced. Cashpoint delay Please contact our Region al Office: St Andrews Ridge resident SaInstallation of a cashpoint machine rah Monkton said she was conWestern Region, 10 The Parade at the Abbey Meads Village Cencerned about probable delays "I Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1NE tre has been delayed, it is now due am pleased the work has started, to be completed within the next six but really cross it has taken so long Tel: 01672 515622 months. to sort out. Since the opening of SHELTERED PROPERTIES THROUGHOUT THE SOUTH Dentist sought Motorola the road has been very Macs Neighbourhood Centres, busy and starting the repairs now who are responsible for the Abbey will mean much more disruption." Meads Village Centre, are curThe work is due to be completed rently in negotiation with a dental by 6 September, the first day of Housing Association practice with a view to opening a term for the new Abbey Meads surgery within 6 months. School.

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Mobile libraries from all over the country, from Leeds, Durham, Wales, Cornwall and London boroughs congregated in the Link Centre coach park for a get-together of staff, vehicle body builders and members of local authority library committees. It was a day for talks by experts and a chance to look at other mobiles for ideas. Delegates from as far away as Finland and Slovenia came to see what innovations they could adopt. The vehicles ranged from a small delivery van, fitted with shelves, which delivers books to elderly people in Bristol, to a magnificent state of the art brand new low floor bus from Durham, fitted with computer terminals, photocopier, video, stereo, microwave and even the kitchen sink. This of course won the highest accolade as the vehicle we would all like to use. There were libraries for the elderly, complete with lifts and easy access, and for children, imaginatively decorated inside and out, a

particular favourite being the mobile from Portsmouth, painted with popular book characters, below. Other vehicles catered for the full range of customers supplying books, including large print, storytapes, videos and music on cassettes and CDs. It was most interesting seeing new ideas in practice, meeting friends, old and new, swapping tales and, in spite of the rain mobile staff being a hardy breed, everyone agreed it had been a thoroughly enjoyable day.

Asda Big Read Look out forThe Big Read atAsda and in the West Swindon Library during June, especially during half term. Marcus Moore will be reading and talking about books. On Thursday 3 June, there will excerpts from The Long Poem which is all about West Swindon. Call into the library or telephone Diane Katz at Asda on 872781.

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West Swindon library is still looking for volunteers to listen to children talking about the books they are reading as part of the summer holidays Reading Safari Game. If you can spare a few hours a week, contact Robert Cotterell on 463238 or 465555.

New books in West Swindon library has a constant supply of new books added to its shelves. Here are just a few of the new arrivals writes Robert Cotterill Margaret Forster The Memory Box into service by a local business man A powerful dramatic and disturb- and finds Saul who has been ining new novel exploring family jured by her brother, Ralph. mythology and guilt through a Anne Perry Bedford Square A masmother daughter relationship. terly new novel set in Victorian EngDuncan Harding Sink the land featuring the indomitable deScharnhorst Since April 1914, two tectives, Thomas and Charlotte Pitt. great German battlecruisers, the Douglas Reeman Dust on the Sea Scharnhorst and the Gneisenau Set in 1943, this is the story of have been sheltering in the French Captain Mike Blackwood, a tried harbour at Brest. Their commander and tested survivor. Caught beis reluctant to leave the safety of tween enemy fire and a raging sea, the port, but Hitler sends an ulti- can he find the qualities he needs matum - run the Channel or scut- to inspire his men? tle your ships. Danielle Steel Granny Dan Her Meg Hutchinson Love Forbidden 46th best selling novel: a simple Pregnant and deserted by her lover box, filled with mementoes offers Saul, Miriam is thrown out of her the greatest legacy of all, the gift of home by her mother. She is taken a life transformed ...

LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER

Kosovo: a tragedy that could not be ignored The West could not stand by whilst the Serbs destroyed the Kosovars writes Michael Wills, MP for North Swindon The Balkans have experienced some terrible tragedies over the centuries. But after the end of the Second World War, they should never have had to go through them again. Yet in the 1990s we have watched brutal genocidal atrocities taking place first in Bosnia and now in Kosovo. Like many, I have found the news reports of the last few weeks almost unbearable: thousands of innocent people forced out of their homes, arriving in refugee camps with appalling stories of rape and murder. And all because Slobodan Milosevic is determined to deny the Kosovars any say in their own what was happening, saying that the dreadful human tragedies takfuture. After months of trying to resolve ing place in Kosovo were none of the problems through painstaking their business and to hope that diplomacy, the NATO countries somehow the conflict would not were faced with the realisation that spread more widely in the area. the Serb leader had no interest in Or to intervene on behalf of the resolving matters peaceably. They Kosovar victims of Milosevic's bruwere confronted with a stark tality and in defence of the values choice: either to turn their back on of civilisation.

Carer meets Minister on welfare changes Westlea carer Carole Rose was asked to meet Social Security Minister the Rt Hon Alistair Darling in Whitehall at the end of April. Although a daunting experience, she says she was put at ease and found him very approachable. The invitation followed Carole's speech at a national lobby of Parliament in early April highlighting fears about welfare changes. Accompanied by Swindon South MP Julia Drown, Mr Darling gave Carole an hour of his time to discuss the concerns of carers about proposed 'Gateway Interviews', which the government say are designed to give people information about benefits, employment, training and the support available to them. Carole cares full time for her severely disabled daughter, Elena, 21, whose difficulties include cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Mr Darling assured her that no carer, disabled or sick person will be pushed into work or training as a result of these interviews. Indeed, for carers of those with severe learning disabilities, the combination of an improved computer system and the interview procedure should result in less frequent checks into their circumstances. Although Carole was impressed by Mr Darling's sincerity, she re-

I believe that there was no real choice. We had to draw a line in the sand and say 'no further'. I do not believe we could have turned away from the atrocities being committed in Kosovo. There comes a time when people must stand up for what they believe in and that is what we have now done. No conflict is ever easy or simple. The NATO campaign carries its own costs with it but there was no alternative unless we were sim-

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deportation since the monstrous actions of Hitler and Stalin. The bombing campaign is beginning to have an impact on the Serbian war machine: half the front-line air force is now unstable, serious damage has been caused to the air defence system, fuel is in short supply and Milosevic's troops can no longer move with impunity in Kosovo. But it may still be a long haul. No matter, I believe the campaign must continue until the innocent victims of Slobodan Milosevic, the men, women and children who have already suffered so much, are able to return to their homes and live in peace.

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mains concerned that, when the scheme is fully implemented in three years time, this may not be the reality on the ground. "I am just hoping that Alistair Darling and the Government will keep their promise on this," she said. She stressed that organisations such as Swindon Coalition of Disabled People, MIND, Age Concern and MENCAP will be monitoring the situation closely. Nobody should feel anxious or pressured by the prospect of an interview. â€˘ National Carers Week: page 35.

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strike will also be investigated. Good husbandry and fly-repellent strategies can minimise the risk to your pet. Rabbits kept outside in hutches should be picked 'd• up at least twice a day. They should be checked for signs of diarrhoea, faeces stuck onto hair, urine scalding or vaginal discharge. If required, they shouid be cleaned immediately by bathing gently in warm water and drying. which will begin to eat into the ill and may even die. The vet will assess the extent of A vet should check any problems rabbit's flesh. Unless it is treated rapidly, the rabbit will become very the damage to skin and underly- that are not resolved quickly. Beding tissues and will attempt to re- ding should be kept clean and dry, Shaw vet principal David Warne, centre, with from left, veterinary nurse move the maggots with forceps, which may mean cleaning out Claire Stubbs, receptionists Emma Duckling and Kerry Williams, vets Michelle having bathed the area in antisep- some or all of the hutch daily. Lindsay and Stefania Glowka Fly repellents such as 'Mitex-R' tic solution. Tissue damage can be so severe that it is kinder to put the and mosquito nets can also proanimal to sleep. Antiseptic pow- vide some protection - your vet der is used to kill any unhatched will be able to advise you on these. eggs. The rabbit will then be given But vigilance during the warm antibiotics and may be treated for months of the year is essential if shock. Underlying medical prob- this distressing problem is to be lems that may have caused the fly- avoided.

With the approach of warmer weather, David Warnes of Shaw Veterinary Centre warns rabbit owners about the dangers of blowfly-strike. This is one of the most unpleasant conditions affecting rabbits. Blowflies (blue or greenbottles) feed on rotting organic matter. Attracted by soiled bedding or any kind of discharge, they will lay eggs on a rabbit's fur and skin. These will hatch within hours, producing hundreds of maggots,

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Top marks for teaching, learning and behaviour An Ofsted report on Greendown Community School in West Swindon praises the quality of teaching, positive attitudes to learning and behaviour. The inspection, carried out in March, found that the school's strengths outweigh its weaknesses and it offers sound value for money. It was the third major inspection to take place since the school opened fifteen years ago. Teaching was satisfactory or better in 93% of lessons and, compared with similar schools, performance in public tests was above average. In particular, students are achieving exceptional standards in Art. There is good support for students and the special needs provision was commended. There are excellent procedures in place to promote and monitor attendance. Exclusions are low for a school of its size.

Headteacher Ian Matthews said, "I am delighted about the comments on the quality of teaching and the attitude of students. The school has had significant accommodation difficulties but, in spite of this, it is clear that we run an orderly and well controlled school which produces good results." The school will now produce a development plan to tackle the issues raised by the report. Copies are available from the school at £1.

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The inspectors were also critical of the provision of specialist accommodation and space generally. Additional buildings due to open in September will alleviate this to The headteacher and senior managers provided clear educa- some degree. Whilst there are good opportutional direction and leadership. The school provides well for the nities for moral and social development, there are few opportunicommunity it serves. Work is already underway to ties for spiritual development and improve writing skills throughout for collective worship. The teachthe school, particularly for boys, a ing of music and the provision for weakness picked up by the report. information technology was regarded as unsatisfactory. There is room for improvement in the Micro maze masters also school's use of data - on children's performance, attendance and home study, and in monitoring building matters.

Building start The Link last month revealed exclusively that an 11 class extension at Greendown might not be ready on time for nearly 300 year 7 children starting in September. We also reported that tenders to Swindon Council had come in £300,000 over budget. Contractors are now on site and the semi-permanent building should be ready by the end of July. A new music block and changing room are also to be installed. In the existing building, science laboratories and classrooms will be refurbished over the summer holidays, and a new staff room for the increased number of teachers is to be created. However serious problems with accommodating students during lunch breaks remain.

Two year 10 students from Greendown have high hopes of creating a world beating robot at the International Micromouse final to be staged in Exeter in July. Working after school with governor and Neighbourhood Engineer Gordon Watt, Rickie Elder and Daniel Grieves built their electronic micromouse to negotiate a maze against the clock. Their machine, sponsored by Royal Mail, came third in the western region finals on 20 May. Challenge day Micromouse is organised by the Institution of Electrical Engineers Sponsors are needed to help year to encourage skills in computing, 9 students develop business skills electronics, control and mechan- at the Challenge Plus day on 14 June at Hreod Parkway School. ics. " We've rebuilt our micromouse Over 100 students will be ask to three times to improve perform- find solutions to an industry based ance," said Rickie. "It has been problem. To sponsor the event, contact returning some good times; were in with a chance." Hreod Parkway School on 527999.

accommodation... beNe fi ts... el1ucatioN... family.., health... justice... money... sport...

leisure... traiNiNg... AND AL6 THE BITS IN BETWEEN To ZED .. Computer database available to search for answers locally and nationally, plus internet access @

The Youth Unit, Link Centre Drop in or make an appointment or call Jo Marchment on 465466 for details

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* Superb sliding door wardrobes all made to measure in our workshops Door panels in laminates, real wood veneers, mirrors # We can also supply and install: fitted kitchens & bedroom furniture • Over 40 finishes available * Agents for Hideaway wall beds Call now

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Tours of Abbey Meads community school on 12 June

Skiier goes down under

Although builders were behind with 240 place Abbey Meads Primary School in mid-May, it will still be ready to host an open morning on Saturday 12 June. There are duced, will be sent to all those on The headteacher Mrs Marilyn Brown, presently 103 the school list. ,. The next drop in session to meet pupils from right, some of her five within the Mrs Brown will be on Tuesday 15 staff and governors will be on hand to c a t c h m e n t June, 2pm to 5pm in the Haydon meet parents and puarea regis- Wick Parish Council rooms. There , "^ " pils between 9.30am \ ,? ' tered, and 16 will be a parents evening on 16 and 11.30am. A samfrom outside. July, time and venuetobeconfirmed. Mrs Brown can be contacted at ple of the new blue t w Fifty of these uniform with logo are reception Sanford House on 463000. children. The will be on view. school will be Despite being very well nearly one month beCooks ready for final equipped with Youngsters at Swindon secondhind schedule, Mrs a library and Brown is confident ary schools are busily perfecting c o m p u t e r recipes for the third Young Cook the school will be Mrs ready on time. "We suite. of the Year competition, sponBrown is also are getting really exsored by ComTel. cited as the building takes shape. hoping to arrange breakfast and Students from twelve schools Our numbers are growing daily after school clubs after a survey of across the town entered the initial and I believe they will do so after parental need. stages by sending in written recithe tour." Abrochure,currentlybeingproTh w ere ,c1..ked use local F es. ey produce where possible and emphasise healthy aspects of nutriPlans for the second 210 place primary school, situated on Elstree tion. The semi-finalists were short Way, in the oldest part of Abbey Meads, will go before Swindon's listed in May and on 10 June the planning committee shortly. Building work is scheduled to comthey will be cooking up their creamence in August with an opening date set for September 2000. To see the plans and discuss the proposals, contact Eileen Roberts at tions at Swindon College.

Talented skiier Michelle Palmer, 13, from Shaw, opposite page, has been chosen to attend a summer training camp in New Zealand. She will be part of the British Children's Ski Team and will train alongside the junior and senior British Alpine ski squads who will be in camps at the same time. Last September Michelle finished second in the European Artificial Ski Slope Championships, putting her into the top 25 female racers in Britain. This gained her a place at the Thompsons British Ski Academy so that she could train and race on snow. She was the top British Girls under 15 in the Giant Slalom at the recent World Schools Ski Championship and did well at the English Alpine races in March. Michelle is showing greatpromise for the future and the New Zealand trip is an opportunity to impress coaches and selectors. Parents Sandra and Geoff Palmer have funded her, but to achieve her full potential Michelle will need to find commercial sponsorship. If you can help, contact Sandra or Geoff on 874095.

Second north school plans to view

the Education Department on 463126.

Primary school is first to receive award Oliver Tomkins Infant School is the first Swindon primary school to be awarded the Basic Skills Agency Quality Mark. Sports Field

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classroom helpers an d the children, butalsoparentsand grandparents. "The acquisition of basic skills unlocks the rest of the curriculum for children. The more we can do to provide these skills, the more children will enjoy all subjects." Launched towards the end of 1996, the Quality Mark has so far been awarded to only 450 of the 22,000 primary schools in England and Wales. Greendown School, was the first Swindon secondary school, and one of the first twelve schools in the country, to receive the quality mark in summer 1997. Penny Summers, with Oliver Tomkins infants, from left, Joshua Kilroy, James

Evidence had to be produced to back up the application. This includedteachingprogrammes,policies on involving parents and children's work. An assessor visited the school to confirm the claims, Headteacher Penny Summers is delighted. "We did not set out with the specific purpose of gaining the quality mark," she said. "We were already working on basic skills across the school and the award endorses our approach to literacy and numeracy. It has only been achieved by everyone pulling together, not only teachers,

The Link Magazine • June 1999

Are you a Swindon sports star? The swindonlink.com web site is providing space on the internet, free of charge, to Swindon sports stars showing promise so that they can describe their prospects and also appeal for sponsors. AlreadyfeaturedareOlympic ___________ ice skate hopefuls Andrew Seabrook and Clare Hughes, left, and young skier Michelle Palmer from Shaw. If you are pursuing a sport or know somebody who should be . on the site, call (01793) 872282 to discuss how to get them online @ swindonlink.com

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Club

Shrivenham Road, Highworth, Swindon, Wilts Located in beautiful rolling Wiltshire countryside. Wrag Barn has two Function Suites offering panoramic views of the Vale of White Horse. The Bellingham and The Banbury Suites cater for 160 seated formally and 200 for a buffet. They are ideal for weddings, Christenings, '' birthdays, anniversaries or any other occasion. Sunday Lunches £9.50 Enjoy our popular 3 Course Carvery Sunday Luncheon. using only the finest cuts of meat delivered daily from our local butcher and fresh locally grown produce. On those warm balmy days, finish your lunch ith a glass of wine on the balcony, then sit back and enjoy the glorious views.

Shaw teams take titles The annual West Swindon primary schools football and netball competition at the Link Centre produced exciting action from the ten schools involved and eager support from the hundreds of parents and school staff in the stands. The netball tournament was won by Brook Field School, Shaw, and the football competition was once again won by Shaw Ridge School. The Brook Field girls, from left, Emma Kershaw, Krista North, Jessie Twyman, Sarah Roberts, Alice Cornell, Anna Yamamoto, Charlotte Baxter, Sara Addis. The Shaw Ridge footballers, Richard Hunt, Ben Rutter, Rory Meecham, Luke Zammitt, Daniel Rose. Front. Nickti Craft

WRAG BARN

Please book in advance as we are very popular!

Telephone: (j1793) 861327

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MER SPECIAL W

BEGINNERS CLASS

Bradon have top under 15s team Bradon Forest School footballers are the Wiltshire County Schools under 15s champions beating John of Gaunt School, Trowbridge 2 1 in early May. Cup winners, rear from left, coach Chris Cooper, Calvin Eagles, Lee Jones, Matthew Plant, Simon Pugh, James Blastland, JP Mills, Oliver Perry-Smith. Front, Darren Gunn, Chris Rivers, Andrew Cobley, Peter Temple, David Gibbons, Danny Allen We're offering first timers the chance to try LEIGH CHILDS Te Geri, the new high energy, explosive, exciting and motivating workout - the non-contact kickboxing aerobic programme with the kicks of karate and the punches from boxing

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The L i nk Magazine • June 1999

Enchanting business

74t Je^4 Enchanting Transform your body Shape up and slim down by combining a sensible low-fat eating plan with exercise

Classes in West Swindon and Woo tt on Bassett Contact Wendy on (01793) 877750 Membership fee £5.80 • Class fee £4.15 Exercise-only £3.15 (no membership fee) Booking advisable

Why not come to Tinkerbells in Victoria Road, Old Town, to see our marvellous range of unusual gifts? We have magical gifts from the Enchanted World of Fai ri es Fancy dress, make-up, jewellery and accessories. Cuddly toys, collectables, mystical crystals, stationery and party goods And much, much more

93 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel/Fax: 01793 541550

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Revamped Link rink reopens

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The Link Centre ice rink reopens to the public on 1 June after an £80,000 refurbishment. Flooring and seating around the and disco karaoke sound system 15 year old rink has been replaced, has been installed. Of direct benefit to skaters, 800 toilets have been upgraded and a new pairs of skates will be availnew colour scheme introduced, A new ice hockey scoreboard able to hire.

V V V V V V NEW SHIPMENTS OF HAND CRAFTED FURNITURE NOW IN I Segusino

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Ladies go for another win Action will be fast and furious at the Link Centre ice rink as twelve teams from around the country tough it out at the 4th British Ladies Friendship Ice Hockey Tournament on 19 and 20 June. Tickets are available at Link Centre, tel: 445566.

and teak

Dressers and sideboards, • Dining tables and chairs • Coffee tables, console P tables, desks, • Bedside cabinets, bars, wardrobes

Jill and Josie Hobbs at Tinkerbells Bodiam Drive between 1976 and 1983. Jill says she did not realise how slow it would take for facilities to arrive in West Swindon; a permanent shop in Toothill opened in 1981. She recalls attending meetings to protest about the lack of a secondary school. Eventually the family moved away so that Josie could attend Ridgeway School.

Manicures & Pedicures

I,•

Two year old Josie Hobbs attended the Tuesday Time Out parent and toddler group in Toothill which was run by her mother Jill. That was way back in 1976. In June she will be 25 years old and will have run her Old Town business Tinkerbells for six weeks. Josie has always fancied having her own shop although she left school to go into bookkeeping. "My dream has come true," she said on opening day on 30 April. "Tinkerbells is what I call a girlie shop, full of enchanting gifts, fairies, teddies, bits and bobs for dressing up and decoration. We have fairy outfits, butterfly wings, wands and glitter. "It's a mystical place for children and also adults who like to be enchanted." For something unusual, pop into Tinkerbells at 93 Victoria Road. Who knows what you will come out with? • The Hobbs family lived at

Near Evening Advertiser building

A womens and childrens karate class takes place at the Oasis Leisure Centre every Tuesday and Friday between 7pm and 8.15pm Beginners always welcome as well as existing karate-ka from any style. If you are interested in learning a martial art, which will help improve self-confidence, fitness and awareness, drop into any class to watch or join in. Instructors are insured and fully recognised by the English Karate Governing Body. We guarantee the lowest price for training in Swindon. Price: £1.50 per session, no contracts or obligations For more information call Dave Salmon on 551768 (day), 728383 (eve)

i Giant carp tor every special occasion The Giant Card Co. Tel: 01793 692929 Fax: 01793 537262

Win tickets to see Charlotte Church

e mail: giantcards@aol.com

Were calling this the Gold Dust Competition because come August, tickets for the Wiltshire Festival Classical Extravaganza concert will be rare indeed. With 13 year soprano sensation Charlotte Church as the major attraction, this year's classical night on Friday 20 August is sure to be a sell out. Her Swindon appearance is one of only 10 performances she will give this year. Charlotte will be promoting the concert at the De Vere Hotel on Thursday 2 June. The organisers say ticket sales are running well ahead of last year, and the publicity for the event has hardly even started. The English National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Jae Alexander will provide the music and Swindon born Bethan Dudley will lead the now traditional Last Night of the Proms finale, finished off with a fireworks spectacular.

Tickets cost ÂŁ18 plus booking fee from 07050 677536. They are available to personal callers from the Oasis and Link leisure centres and the Swindon Tourist Information Centre.

TOP HAT ENTERTAINMENTS Established since 1970

Large or small discos to suit your special

How to win a Gold Dust ticket We have five pairs of tickets to win in an easy competition. All you have to do is answer the questions below: 1. Which country does Charlotte Church come from? 2. Name her first album 3. On which Swindon internet site can Charlotte Church be seen. Send your entries to The Link, Papermakers House. Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 17 June.

occasion and venue

with experienced DJ's who play what you want to hear

For further details call Brian on (01793) 872391

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Cleopatra comes to the Party Top girl group Cleopatra has been added to the tremendous Wiltshire Festival Party in the Park on Saturday 21 August li ne-up. They join performers from the 70s. 80s and 90s including 1 000. ABC and Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet. Top boy band 911 represents the 1990s, along with chart acts Honyz and Kele LeRoc. Tickets cost ÂŁ19 plus booking fee from 07050 677536, or in person from the Oasis and Link leisure centres and the Swindon Tourist Information Centre.

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WHO GIVES THE VERY BEST SERVICE HE CAN OR SMALL - WE MOVE IT

*Commercial or domestic *Single items to a full house *Storage *6 different size vans * House clearances undertaken

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?IES Highly trained reliable fitters * DIY catered for with Crystal back up service * High security locking

NEW SERVICE Conservatory maintenance and frame cleaning service now available Tel: 616333 or 434019 after 5pm

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Twelfth Night in the park

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Tel/fax: 01793 853976 Mobile: 0378 954903

Shakespeare in the Park has become a major annual event in the Lydiard calendar, writes Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of Lydiard House.

Trophies Plaques & Awards Badges - all types Signs & Graphics Engraving tali for our free bvockuve BSS House, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2PJ Tel: 01793 535900

IMPORTANT DECISIONS REQUIRE PROFESSIONAL ADVICE Buying, selling or remortgaging? We give an efficient fully computerised service and keep you informed throughout the process ; 1, Telephone now for a quote:

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Following the success of Much Ado About Nothing (1996), A Midsummer Night Dream (1997), and Macbeth (1998) the acclaimed touring company, Heartbreak Productions is storming into summer 1999 with a rip roaring performance of Shakespeare's comedy of disguise, Twelfth Night, on 24 and 25 July. This is the only event of its kind in Swindon catering for the growing public interest in drama away from a traditional theatre. Lydiard House provides a beautiful backdrop to the stage and West Swindon is a very appropriate venue following the pioneering work on Shakespeare by local schools. The Swindon Young Musicians Consort will be playing lively period music from 6pm until the start of the play at 7.30pm. There will be a pagoda with hot drinks and lanterns for sale. Bring your rugs, picnic hampers, and chairs There are 500 tickets for each night. In 1998 both performances were sold out well in advance. Tickets are available from the Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus, Swindon. Tel: 463210. Adults: £9.50; under 15s: £5, or £8.50 and £4 before 16 July. Discounts for groups of over 10 people.

A scene from Macbeth last year

Win a pair tickets We have four pairs to give away. Answer these questions: 1. Where was William Shakespeare born? 2. How many previous Heartbreak Productions have there been at Lydiard Park? 3. What is the title of this year's performance? Send your replies to The Link, Papermakers Hose, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 17 June.

Temperance Seven set up jazz storm Many bands have copied their style, but none have bettered The Temperance Seven who appear at Winner Jazz Club at the County Ground on 13 June.

Take Away and Home Delivery AUTHENTIC PEKING, SZECHUAN, CANTONESE, VEGETARIAN AND ORIENTAL CUISINE

Telephone 01793 849388 116 High Street, Wootton Bassett Open 6 days a week: 5.00pm - 11.30pm Closed on Mondays • Open Bank Holiday Mondays

Spanning nearly 40 years, the eccentric ensemble continue to perform the best in hot jazz, intermingled with novelty items and wild on stage antics. On 11 July Tommy Burton's Sportinghouse Quartet will be playing Winners.

To reserve tickets at £12 at either show, send a cheque with SAE to: Ray Butt 33 Chestnut Springs, Lydiard Millicent, orcall into Swindon Town FC. Tickets will be available on the door if not sold out beforehand.

Se^Kdo

Old Town ready to festival Swindon's Old Town will once again be full of music, fun and events over the weekend of 9 to 11 July. Well known for its people participation, festival organisers are hoping to involve more community groups and performers. The first event takes place at Christ Church on 9 July with a service, the opening of a flower

festival and a slide show by the Swindon Society. On Saturday the streets will be thronged with an amazing collecti on of characters taking part in the Jolly Brolly Parade, cheered by

onlookers, as it makes it way to an opening ceremony in Wood Street. The focus of the afternoon will be on the Lawns, where traditional

Music masterclass Steve White, below, one of the top drummers on the rock scene, is holding a drum clinic at Greendown School on Sunday 11 July, 2pm.

games, stalls and a fair will take place. On Sunday 11 July, the scene moves to Old Town Gardens where street performers and local groups will be providing entetainment in the Burmah Bowl. Organiser John Griffiths wants to hear from groups who would like to put on stalls, and volunteers

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willing to organise games and activities. Also, if you are a musician or an artiste willing to perform, call him on 435983 or 07771 881293.

SOLICITORS Temple House, 115/118 Commercial Road, Swindon

Ladies in song Thamesdown Ladies ChoiraregivA limited number of tickets for £10 to the two hour masterclass with Steve, who plays with the Paul Weller Band, can be booked through Paul Ashman on 702948.

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For the finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking and South East Asian Cuisine

Leases & Tenancies Wills & Probate Conveyancing Business & Company Matters Debt Recovery General Litigation Matrimonial and Family Law

ing a concert in aid of the National Asthma Campaign and Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool at the Bath Road Methodist Church on Saturday 3 July, 7.30pm. Tickets for the concert cost £3 and can be obtained from 824249 or on the door (if available).

•:• Experienced Efficient Effective

Embroiderers gather

Z!1

The Swindon & North Wilts Branch of The Embroiderers' Guild next meet at Churchfields School on Monday 7 June, 7.30pm. Phillip Porterwill be talking about Japanese embroidery. Everyone welcome, admission £3. On Sunday 13 June there is a day school on machine embroidery with Chris Cook. Call Maggie Harris on 720097 for more details.

Menu available on request Fully Licensed

53 Devizes Road Swindon Tel: (01793) 521515

oYingbro e

Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett, Swindon Tel/Fax: (01793) 852357 All special events catered for Try us for an evening meal in pleasant surroundings

Film school no. 2

Come and try our

Media Arts, in association with New College, is again running the Burning Ambitions Film School for 14 to eighteen year olds, from 16 August to 26 August. It is a unique opportunity to learn how to direct and operate camera the skills of floor management and market research. There will be the very best in scriptwriting, drama, technical, marketing, set design and desk top publishing tutors. The heavily subsidised course costs £120 for 10 days, including all tuition, equipment and facilities. To receive more information contact Farideh Camyab on 463224.

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•

free oue 3.e.5taurau.t &far

iN Succulent steaks, cooked to your liking

r Affair with duck * Chicken Athol

All prepared at The Bolingbroke Booking advisable at weekends

and sound equipment, and to learn 1

Fax: (01793) 513812

Tel: (01793) 522688

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 12noon - 2.30pm; 7.00pm - 10.30pm Sunday 12noon - 3.00pm

Traditional Sunday roast, all freshly prepared, booking advisable

Highly recommended

Swindon Wide

MER 10% off block bookings Sp .C1AL on lessons taken between

SUM

Monday & Thursday at Westleaze Riding Centre, Mill Lane, Swindon Bath m 3 Kingshill Road Old Town

Westleaze \Nestlecon Rd Rlding

Centre Horses taken for breaking/schooling

BHS qualified tuition for beginners to experienced riders Group or private lessons • Hacking Pub Rides (Adults only) Own a pony week courses in school holidays

Call (01793) 617761

Brinkworth Golf Club Brinkwo rt h, Chippenham, Wiltshire Tel: 01666 510277 Weekday round of golf from only £8 Weekends only £10 aQ 4 n Q a Q a a

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Tuesday 1 June Half term workshop I Spy! for 511 yr olds. Swindon Museum & Art Galle ry , 2pm, £2, book on 466556 Comedy Crazy Chicken Comedy Club, Mackenzie's, Wood Street, doors 7.45pm. £5 Wednesday 2 June Music Bill Bruford's Ea rt hworks. A rt s Centre, 8pm. £9 Thursday 3 June Half term workshop The Holiday Line, for 5-11 yr olds. GWR Museum. 2pm, £2, book on 466555 Music Chris While and Julie Matthews - a magical brand of acoustic music. Arts Centre, 8pm. £6.50 Music Elvis on Tour with Liberty Mounten. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50 Friday 4 June Comedy Hinge and Bracket 25th anniversary show. Wyvern, 7.30pm. Saturday 5 June Family Roundheads and Cavali ers. Members of the St John famil y step from their portraits at Lydiard House to bring the English Civil War to life. 10am - 4.30pm. Normal admission charge Children's activity Swashbucklers, for 5-11 yr olds. Lydiard House, 2pm. £2, book on 770401

A weekday round of golf half price during June when you produce this advert at the clubhouse aQ 4 n, (no photocopies accepted)

Swindon Greyhounds BS GROUP

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Racing every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, First race 7.3 0pm Bars, Tote Raceview Restaurant

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Family The Ugly Duckling, (above) suit 3 to 8 year olds. Arts Centre, 2pm & 5pm. £4.50/E4 Saturday 5 June & Saturday 12 June Worskshop Stained Glass -2 days of learning techniqes to produce an 11" x 11" stained glass panel. Arts Centre, 1 Oam - 4pm. £50 Sunday 6 June Cycle ride Starts in Wroughton, suit families. For information and to book call David Hoar on 433165 Music The Counte rf eit Stones. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50 Monday 7 June to Wednesday 9 June Dance Aspects of Dance starring Wayne Sleep and guests from The City Ballet of London. Wyvern, 7.30pm & Wed mat 2.30pm. £16.50 Thursday 10 June to Saturday 12 June Comedy Dead Funny by Terry Johnson, presented by Old Town Theatre Co. A comedy, for adults only. A rt s Centre, 7.30pm. £5

Eliza Carthy playing at the Arts Centre on 24 June

Thursday 10 June Music An Evening with Richard Digance. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £11.50 Friday 11 June Music Sweet Home Chicago - the ultimate tribute to The Blues Brothers. Wyvern, 8pm. £10 Sunday 13 June Walk 9 mile easy paced walk in western section of the Great Western Community Forest. Meet Lydiard Park Visitor Centre, 1Oam, return by 4.30pm, bring packed lunch, stout footwear needed. £2, juniors £1. Book on 771419 Music The Temperance Seven. Winners Jazz Club, Coun ty Ground. £12, for details call 533212 Thursday 17 June to Saturday 19 June Variety Centre Stage presented by Stage Struck. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5, tickets from 535052 only Saturday 19 June Music Woo tt on Basse tt Orchestra, annual symphony concert. Wootton Basse tt School, Lime Kiln, 7.30pm. £3 Sunday 20 June Music The Legend of the 60s. Top music and dancing, from rock and roll to staz and soul. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9 Wednesday 23 June Comedy The Bradford Players a Comedy Revue Show. Arts Centre, 8pm. £4 Wednesday 23 June to Sunday 27 June Children Postman Pat and his black and white cat. Wyvern, Wed: 4.30pm, Thurs & Sat: 10.30am & 1.30pm, Fri & Sun: 1.30pm & 4.30pm. £7.50, child 6.50 Thursday 24 June Music Eliza Carthy and her top folk band on their way to Glastonbury. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Friday 25 June & Saturday 26 June Music Sheila Harrod presents Kentwood Goes Solo. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5 Saturday 26 June Workshop Life Drawing Series, with tutor Winnie Walters (also on Sat 3 July). Arts Centre, 10am 4pm. £10, bring drawing board & materials

June overview Saturday 26 June Children's activity Mysterious Mansion, for 5 - 11 yr olds. Lydiard House, 2pm. £2, book on 770401

Comedy Phil Cool (above). Wyvern, 7.30pm. £12.50 Tuesday 29 June Music Cherish The Ladies with an evening of Irish/American music, song, dance, fun. Wyvern, 8pm. £10.50

Fete & Car Boot Sale Saturday 26 June, 12 noon St Marks Church, Church Place, Swindon Tel: 01793 721897 for bookings

uiu:iui:ziu:n:i: Tuesday 1 June, 7.45pm The Opposite of Sex (18) A sharp comedy which tells its story of various relationships through the eyes of a 16 year old streetwise trash girl, starring Christina Ricci. Arts Centre, £3.50 Monday 14 June to Thursday 17 June, 7.45pm Shakespeare in Love Tom Stoppard's fantastic screen play brought to life with beautiful costumes and scene ry. Starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Joseph Fiennes and Martin Clunes. Wyvern, £3.95

Lower Shaw Farm Wednesday 16 June, 10am - 12.30pm Under 5s Activity Morning Crafts and play around the farm for children under 5 and their parents ° °=_' ` and carers. Bring a pic °'_-^<^ r £5 per family

SWINDON'S C

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Fetes and fairs for fundraising Shaw Ridge School Summer Fete and Craft Fair Saturday 12 June, 12noon - 3pm Craft stalls, £7 to book call 881208 In aid of computer equipment

Westlea School Summer Fayre Saturday 26 June, 1.30pm Stalls and attractions Mass balloon launch, £1 per balloon, on sale from 21 June

Commonweal School PTA Summer Fayre Saturday 19 June, 2pm Over the Top motorcycle team, falconry flying displays, Irish dancing, hot air balloon, ca rt oonist, fairground rides Entrance: adults £1, children 50p Car boot sale, to book call 537179 after 6pm.

Freshbrook School Summer Fayre Saturday 26 June, 12 noon - 3pm Dazzling displays, sensational stalls, amazing attractions, spot prizes during the day, grand prize draw Everyone welcome

Moredon Infant School Summer Fair Saturday 19 June, 11.30am Fun and games for everyone, barbecue, many stalls Car boot and crafts stalls welcome, call 535992 Oliver Tomkins School Fete Saturday 26 June, 1.30 - 4.30pm Adults 25p, children free Tregoze School Old English Fete Saturday 26 June, 1 pm - 4pm Mollie Tanner dancers, driving instruction for all ages, Beanie Baby tombola, tug of war (teams wanted), coconut shy, raffle with a difference. Stalls: £8 Entry: adults 50p, children free

Summer Fete Abbey Meads Village Green Saturday 3 July, 12noon to 4pm In aid of furnishings for the new Church of Christ the Servant Fun for all the family: face painting, bouncy castle, li ve music, garden plants, ice cream, barbecue & much more For details call 700641 Brook Field School Summer Fayre 'Days Gone By' Friday 9th July, 6pm Many stalls and attractions with a nostalgic theme from the 40s to the 90s - including donkey rides, coconut shy, face painting, plants, toys, books, strawberries and cream Stalls: £5 or 10% of takings phone 871784

KOBE PEARLS purchased especially for Deacons by our Japanese pearl buyer, and imported directly,;, Birth stone for te June: Pearl , A ZpERFECT Order Now for N GIFT your choic

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

AM SKIPS 2, 2,

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In the May edition of The Link we reported the worries of Grange Farm Nurseries owners Alan and Valerie Trotman, who fear their business will be ruined, after 27 years of trading, by the new northern orbital road system. They were left seething when no direct car access to their business was shown on any drawings for the Haydon 3 development. However news that the proposed bus only link between Elstree Way and Westfield Way is likely to be shelved (see page 13) will be welcomed. LANDSCAPING & GARDEN Martin Trewhella, senior planMAINTENANCE ner at Swindon Borough Council, • Fencing: Close board/ said, "customers of the garden cenPanels/Gates tre will be able to use the existing • Block Paving access at Haydon End Lane. It is likely to be shut eventually, but • Patios, Paths, Turfing not before a permanent means of • Hedging & Mowing

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Visit your local garden centre For the best selection of ornamental & fruit trees, shrubs, roses, perennials, conifers, heathers and alpines in the area Full range of garden sundries, paving & ornament al stoneware MMER Quality water features at realistic prices B

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80 lit e compost £3.99 40 litre compost £2.75 20 litre John lnnes compost £2.55 40 litre horse manure £2.50 40 litre peat £1.85 40 litr es Ericaceous compost £2.99 Growbags 99p 3' per 10 Canes 50p 4' per 10 80p 5' per 10 £1.15 6' per 10 £1.50 £2.35 8' per 10 Grass seed per lb from £1.30 Pelleted poultry manure £5.49 Bedding plants, per tray £3.99 Vegetable plants, per strip 60p

Geraniums, potted Fuschias, potted Patio plants Wire netting 10m x 2' x'/ z " Wire netting IOm x 3' x I" Wire netting 10m x 3' x 2" 3kg charcoal 5kg charcoal Lighting liquid 13kg Handy Gas Green table oval White table oval Green table round White table round Green chair White chair

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Roman site secured

Classical Kinesiology

Roman remains buried under an Abbey Meads housing area have finally been saved from destruction after English Nature and Swindon Council came up with the £954,000 asking price for the site.

A natural way to better health

The chairman of English Nature Sir Jocelyn Stevens with Swindon's new Mayor Coun. Joyce Brunt examining an amulet and a silver chalice discovered at the Abbey Meads site (Photo: Calyx Multimedia Swindon 01793 520131)

Commuters to be challenged in June Swindon's first 'Commuter Challenge' will be run between car park B at the West Swindon Centre and the council's offices at Premier House in the town centre on Monday 7 June, Sam. Five West Swindon commuters using different forms of transport will each be trying to make their journey the quickest. Leaving by car, bus, motorbike, bicycle and on foot (jogging), their start and finish times will be recorded and a presentation will be made at aboout 9am at Premier House. "The Commuter Challenge aims to demonstrate the speed and virtues of other modes of transport than the car," explained Local Agenda 21 Officer, Sean Spencer-

Wort. "But obviously we can't prove that until the day." The event forms part of Don't Choke Swindon month. During June the council, transport operators and health professionals are encouraging people to reduce congestion and pollution and find healthy alternatives to travelling by car. Local companies can get involved by contacting Lorna Bell on 466449 for an "Employer's Pack" full of ideas to persuade staff to leave their cars at home.

Discovered in 1997 by a digger driver preparing the ground for house building, early investigation suggested the remains were a palatial villa. Further archaeological digging revealed a 10 acre complex of shrines, terraced gardens and pools built around springs emerging from Blunsdon Ridge. Pilgrims would have used the ceremonial baths and offered prayers for good health. Although only one per cent of the area has been excavated, it could be one of the greatest Roman religious sites in Britain, comparable with the best in Europe. Its excellent condition is due to the lack of damage by ploughing in the last 1,600 years. English Nature chairman Sir Jocelyn Stevens visited Swindon on 20 May to formally complete the site purchase and announce plans for the future. A management plan is being drawn up to address future investigations and develop facilities and resources for visitor interpretation. See the site in colour @ www.swindonlink.com

Kinesiology is a therapy to help all types of conditions - fatigue, stress, allergies, aches, pains, digestive disorders, hormonal problems, ME, eczema etc ...

Tel: 01793 706369 Christine Smith Dip.MESK, KFRP. Complementary Therapist Best of Health Therapy Centre Wootton Bassett

CHIROPODIST Advanced Reflexologist & Kinesiologist CLINIC AT HIGH STREET WooTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASK

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Telephone: 01793 695185

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA ' ,

GM giant unable to reassure public Local people, farmers and bee-keepers attended a packed meeting at Blunsdon village hall on 13 May organised by Swindon Campaign Against Modification (SCAM). Farmer Captain Barker and look at safe scientific procedures biotech company AgrEvo were left for these trials does not meet until in no doubt as to the strength of June. All these factors undermine opposition to a 25 acre trial site of confidence in the Government's GM oilseed rape taking place at stated commitment for full conLushill Farm, Hannington, near sultation. Highworth Great concern about the risk of Jean Saunders of Swindon cross-pollination fromtheGMcrop Friends of the Earth described the was expressed by other local farmtrial as a'sham' and reminded the ers as well as many bee-keepers. meeting, there was no proper notiAgrEvo could say nothing to alfication before the crop was lay their fears but admitted that planted. gene flow does occur. She went on to point out that, There were calls that the crop be although the trial is designed to removed legally, soon and as safely assess the impact of GM crops on as possible. farmland wildlife, no preliminary For more information on Swinecological assessment of the site don Campaign Against Modificahad been done. She said the Gov- tion, call Sue Birley on tel / fax 01793 ernment steering group which will 790438.

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Scouts get on their bikes

Road made safer for pedestrians

Members of Swindon Road Club teamed up with Toothill Scouts on 30 April for an evening of Cycleworks.

The scouts got their hands grubby repairing punctures and chains, and also found out how healthy it is to cycle. Fast and furious peddling on static bikes linked up to computers demonstrated how much energy is used by showing heart rate and power output. The evening was supported by Mitchells Cycles and Total Fitness. Toothill Scouts can be contacted on 520387. Call Bryan Telford about Swindon Road Club on 7260920.

For West Swindon mother Diane Johnson, the completion of the pelican crossing on Whitehill Way between the Link Centre and Shaw Ridge Leisure Park brings a breath of healing. Diane's twelve year old son, Ashley, was tragically knocked down by a car as he crossed Whitehill Way in late September 1996. He died at Oxford's John Radcliffe intensive care unit. In the months that followed, she organised with great energy a petition for a crossing to ensure that no other parent had to experience the loss of a child in this way. Over 5,000 people signed it and Diane called for action at a council public works committee. For some time after the accident, Diane avoided Whitehill Way. Indeed, when we asked her to appear in a photograph for this article, she was apprehensive, but felt compelled to express her thanks to all her supporters. With the roads becoming ever busier and more dangerous for pedestrians, Diane is delighted that the crossing is now in place. "I'm glad it's come to an end," she said. "It just shows what can be done if people get together; but it's sad there has to be a tragedy first. I was determined that we would get the crossing, but the success is down to the people who signed the petition."

Diane and Lyndsey at the Whitehill Way pelican crossing

She paid particular tribute to Toothill councillor David Cox, former council leader Maurice Fanning and to Julia Drown MP for their support for her campaign. Diane says she has experienced many little bits of help which have added up to a lot of kindness. Ashley's memory is very much alive. A chair is still kept empty for him by his tutor group at Ridgeway School. Each October, flowers have been anonymously placed

on the roadside where he was knocked over. And Diane's first granddaughter, born to daughter Lyndsey three months after Ashley died, carries his name. "When Ashley was on life support in the hospital, I decided that the baby would be called after him," said Lyndsey. "She's now very grown up for a two year old and very cheeky, just like big Ashley."

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Sponsorship needed for life changing Ghana trip

Try Drive 99 & Motor Show West McLaren Mercedes Mika Hakkinen's 1998 Formula 1 championship car Team Extreme: the world's foremost bike, skateboard and skate team Racifig by Chippenhpm Model C Club "r Flying by Swindon Model Aero UClub Glider Experience and Helicopter Rides Young Driver

Jodie Leftwich, 17, from Freshbrook is seeking sponsorship for a 1,000 foot para glide to fund the equipment she needs to spend three months in Ghana on the Raleigh International Programme. She travels on 30 June with 120 ditions, she is keener than ever to other volunteers aged between sev- go to Ghana. enteen and 25 and will spend three If you can help with sponsormonths helping to build a school, ship, cash or equipment, contact working in a national park and Jodie via Gems Accounting on taking part in a canoe and trekking 531111 (days). adventure.

So far, Jodie has raised £200 to buy equipment and she is hoping the paraglide organised with the is help of staff at Motorola on 5 June will raise the £500 she still needs. After leaving school last summer, Jodie dropped out of college and did part time work, but something was missing. "I didn't have a direction in life and I wanted to do something different," she said. She heard about Raleigh International and after a selection week end and a week in Scotland to test her teamwork skills in difficult con-

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The Link Magazine • Ma y 1999

DIAMOND' Link Centre price jump forces

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groups to look elsewhere

The exodus of groups from the Link Centre following massive price rises has left the Ike Gradweli community suite increasingly empty. Last month we reported hourly rates jumping from £3 to £7.50. This was not, as was stated for the main hall but for the smaller meeting rooms. Users of the main hall have been hit even harder, with prices soaring to £15 an hour. New users are not replacing groups who have moved to other venues or closed and meeting rooms are unused for much of each day. Recent departures include West Swindon Ladies Club, who have moved to Westlea School's Sunshine Room and Tootleabrook WI to Toothill Community Centre. The Townswomen's Guild used to meet in the main hall and have opted for a smaller room, after their Committee members of the 45 Plus Club, whoare lookingfora new venue. rent was more than trebled. In the May Link, centre manager Shirley Gilbert, left, Les and Clytie Alan Richards explained that Peach. The group will have to close at changes in grant arrangements by the end of the year under the present Swindon Council have meant that rent regime says Les. the funds to subsidise groups are in Swindon who worked to imno longer available. The suite is now a sad memorial prove the lot of working people in to its namesake, a noted socialist the 1930s.

Open: Mon - Sat, 9am - 5pm The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

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On Saturday 12 June, Lydiard Park will come alive for 'Larks in the Park'; a family fun day to raise funds to send disabled teenagers on a week's adventure holiday. From 2pm till 9pm, the park will ring out with the sound of a children's choir and four live bands. Other attractions will include a sponsored penalty shoot-out, stalls, face painting, a bouncy castle and refreshments. Entry is £2 for adults and free for children under 16. The event is one of a series of fundraisers organised by The Rowdy Bunch, Swindon's Youth and Activity Club for Disabled Teenagers. They send 13 teenagers and 16 volunteers away each summer. To do this, they have to raise £12,000.

Quality clothing for all ages and a volunteer collector needed Age Concern Swindon has repeated its urgent appeal for good quality clothing, bric-a-brac and books to sell in its shop at 51 Fleet Street. The money raised helps pay for caring and helpful services throughout the year. Director Jo Osorio said, "we know there are lots of competing demands, but please give what you can. We'll collect, within Swindon, if you can't deliver." Age Concern is also looking for a volunteer with a car or van to collect goods each week. A generous mileage allowance is paid. To get the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping raise funds to support Age Concern's work with older people, call 692166.

The Link Magazine • June 1999

Hosts needed

Playmates under threat

A toddler group which recently moved to the Link Centre is threat- Friendly families are desperately o/ids ^E needed to host students aged 13 ened with closure because of a sudden hike in room rent. to 17 on full time courses during The Playmates started out at Existing groups are having a the summer holidays. Greendown School over ten years staged price rise and will pay £7.50 They come mainly from France Host Families ago. But with the growth in the an hour until September. Play- and will be at college all day and in numbers of children at the school, mates coordinator Sue Lankcaster London on Saturdays. required for young foreign a room could no longer be guaran- said, "although we've been in West The host families will be responstudents a tt ending English teed and the group meetings were Swindon for over 10 years, Link sible for picking up the students language courses in Swindon. cancelled several times because of Centre classify us as a new group and returning them to the coach Six day programme arranged teaching needs. which means a £30 bill for a two after their two week course, proGood remuneration They started to negotiate a move hour session. viding bed, breakfast, packed y to the Link Centre communit suite 'Members will have to pay more lunch and an evening meal. Please contact Nita Martin hall on the basis of £4.50 an hour and we need at least 30 parents Payment of £10.50 a night is on (01672) 539368 rent. But they are now faced with and toddlers at each sesssion to made. To find out more, call Nita or (01672) 539561 having to pay £15 an hour. cover the rent. It just makes it a lot Martin on 01672 539368. for details Thursday morning activity and more difficult to raise money for equipement and special things like trips or parties. "I think the rent increase is outrageous and can only wonder what I S Professionally drawn by Swindon Council are up to. With the high number of families in the (01793) 642245 area there will always be a deFrom £25.00 inc. mand for meeting space. But comA professionally prepared will can avoid Home visit service munity groups are going to be exdelay and distress for your family from £35.00 inc. cluded and it will be very difficult for new ones to start up if the room hire rates are beyond them." Playmates needs parents and toddlers to join them on a regular •_ Et basis. They meet on Thursdays between 9.30am and 11.30am. ^G Drop into the community suite at The Cycling Centre: Swiindon's the Link Centre and join in, or call ...< approved Peugeot Agent Jackie Lynch on 496854.

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

Tenth birthday party for past toddlers

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Nutkins parent and toddler group at Upper Shaw Farm is celebrating its tenth anniversary in August with a big reunion for past and present parents and children. Nutkins runs on Tuesday and members and also to see how the A disco, bouncy castle, face painting, parachute games and Thursday mornings and currently children have grown." There are a limited number of party food are planned for the get has seventy members. "Our success is due to lots of participation tickets available. To book, call Jo together on 26 August. from parents," said coordinator Jo Scott on 882283 or Bernie Dudman FRESHBROOK PLAYGROUP Scott. "It will be fun to meet past on 881049. COMMUNITY CENTRE

cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FREE SUJRVEY NO DEPOSIT Work it out for yourself 20 fascia board fitted 20' fascia & gutter fitted 20' fascia, soffit & gutter 20' fascia & soffit

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Places available for 3 to 5 year olds at morning sessions from September. £3.00 per session. Visitors welcome. For details, call 871017 (OFSTED Inspected)

iNDOWPA,

(prices correct at time of publication)

NURSERY & PRE-PREP 15

Individual Care Individual learning at Prior Park Preparatory School Cricklade, Wiltshire

Places in Peatmoor playgroup

For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of school and holiday provision 7.45am - 6pm)

For a free quote

Please call Shelagh Hanbury B.Ed (Hons) Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons) y

TEL: (01793) 752600

Woodland's Kindergarten which meets at the Roughmoor Social Hall, Peatmoor has a few places available for three to five year olds to start immediately. Places are also available from September. The friendly group maintains a high staff to child ratio of one to five, with only 20 children per session. It was rated as 'excellent' in its recent Ofsted report. The cost is £3.30 per session (until at least April 2000) or free to children with nursery vouchers. For more information, contact Nicki Sellars on 882429.

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The Link Magazine • June 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Why is the system destroying playgroups? Parents involved with pre-school playgroups are angry and frustrated with the difficulties of keeping them afloat. Nationwide, 1,500 playgroups have closed in the last year and local groups are struggling. Since the introduction of the last government's voucher scheme, primary schools keen to increase funding have been taking more 'l under 5s into pre-receptionclasses. ^ f But, says Westlea mother Tracy k Scaife, "some children are just too ; young for school." She pointed `. out that neither pre-reception classes nor free nurseries are able lane Norton, a Link and Learn to offer the same staffing levels as supervisor with under 3s at the group pre-schools playgroups. "The government must look at Because of the changes in school the pressures on playgroups; they entry, playgroups find themselves are essential to family life and as a with low numbers in the autumn preparation for school." rising to a peak in the summer. Although currently a busy As secretary of the Link and Learn playgroup she felt it impor- group, Link and Learn will lose tant to remind people that play- two thirds of its 80 children at the groups are run by volunteer par- end of this term which creates ent committees. "We rely on pa- funding turmoil. Changes in employment law rental support and participation; there is a limit to how much a have recently driven up staffing small number of volunteers can costs. Hefty rent increases at the Link Centre may well prove to be cope with. "At times the pressure to keep the last straw. To find out more about Link and the pre-school going is enormous. It's a problem experienced faced Learn playgroup, drop in any morning or call 875149 by many groups across Britain."

f/c{t Tbt

am`

Songs, nursery rhymes, old and new

Workouts now available in your area

Every Thursday morning from 29th July to 2nd September For more details T '' and prices, telephone 701104 ..

PIANO TUITION

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Any queries call 01793 726659 Qualified experienced Fitness Instructor STILL Only £3.00 per session

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COME AND SEE ... PLAY, TRY & BUY ON DISPLAY IN OUR FARMHOUSE GARDEN Slides • Climbing Frames • Swings • Trampolines • Tractors/Trailers Sandpits • Play Sand • Nursery Equipment • Rubber Tiles & much more

Sunday 10.30 to 11.30am Upper Shaw Community Centre, Ridge Green

Giving Your Child The Best In Quality Education

Tuesday 8 to 9pm Everybody's Gym,

Thursday 8.15 to 9.15pm Upper Shaw Community Centre, Ridge Green

Also music for special occasions, weddings, etc.

Langstone Way

Wednesday 7.30 to 8.30pm Churchfields School, Salcombe Grove

CELLO AND

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= '-- SWINDON'S REAL RAILWAY

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Monday 8 to 9pm Westlea Primary School,

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Saturday 29th, Sunday 30th, Monday 31st May

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All top quality timber Swing Frames • Slides • Play Houses • Climbing Frames • Tree Houses • Sandpits, etc. Indoors: Infant Rocking Chairs • Tables • Desks • Dolls Houses Garages • Castles • Farms • Toy Boxes & much more '' Directions: At J13 M4 take A34 towards Oxford. • 1st left to Beedon. Follow signs to Beedon through World's End. 1st right to Hamstead Norreys. 3/4 mile on left

erley

Music and movement for the under fives

`Friends of Thomas Weekend'

Please contact Mrs G Simonds on (01793) 845572 (Mrs Simonds is a trained nursery inspector)

Open Evening: Thursday 24 June 6.30pm - 9pm

The Link Maqazine • June 1999

PHILIP STONE

PAINTER & DECORATOR For a high standard of work References available Telephone now for a FREE ESTIMATE Tel: 870515 or Mobile 0374 - 208527

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FASCIAS

Diabetes: a condition for life With Diabetes Awareness Week approaching, Gina Dennis talked to Katie Stafford from Freshbrook who wants people to be aware of the permanent effects of diabetes. Watching lively four year old Samuel Stafford in the playground at Oliver Tomkins School or enjoying his brightly coloured climbing frame in the garden, you would not guess that his life is dependent on regular injections of insulin and constant monitoring. About a year ago, Samuel's mum, Katie, noticed that he was becoming anxious and tearful over the smallest incidents. If he stood on a toy or knocked his arm, he would cry inconsolably. He was also hungry and thirsty all the time. Their GP diagnosed diabetes and Samuel was admitted to hospital immediately. The next 24 hours were a traumatic blur of blood tests and injections as Samuel's condition was brought under control. At home a nurse came every day to give him his injections and support and train Katie and husband Michael. At first, it took two of them to hold Samuel down. It took months for him to come to terms with the needles and even now, like any four-year-old, he still doesn't enjoy the experience. "If it were just the injections and blood tests, it would be fine," said Katie. "The hardest part is not knowing what's ahead." As well as the risk of hypoglycaemic attacks and coma, diabetics can face problems with their eyes, kidneys, heart and circulatory system and nerve damage. To protect against such long-term harm, it is vital to achieve a near normal glucose level and maintain a healthy lifestyle

f ® GUTTERING

* FREE ESTIMATES * Tel: (01793) 825965 3 Overton Gardens, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

"What's helped me most is the fact that I've got a lovely little boy who is full of life - it just makes you want to do the best for him," says Katie. "Samuel can run, he can skip, he can laugh. He's a happy child. But he does have a lot of restrictions. We are so very proud of the way he copes with this problem - the injections, the tests, the not having sweets or ice creams when others do. "As a parent, sometimes all you can see is the diabetes and your life revolves around food. On the other hand, you learn not to worry about all the little things in life." Samuel needs six regular meals a day that are high in carbohydrates and low in fat and sugar. He can have small quantities of sweet things like ice cream, but only after a balanced meal. Because this is a biological and not a mathematical problem, you can't just 'work it out', there are too many factors. Too little food, too much insulin, a growth spurt, a change in the weather, illness, stress - any of these can upset the balance. Katie is keen that Samuel should be encouraged to be independent and unashamed of his condition. She does leave him in supervised play areas, though never for more than an hour and she carries a mobile 'phone. Birthday parties and swimming lessons are only possible if mum or dad can stay with him.

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Week of awareness The week of 6 - 12 of June is National Diabetes Week and local support group SCWIDD (Swindon Children With Insulin Dependent Diabetes) is trying to raise awareness of children with diabetes. SCWIDD offers children and their families support, information, and social opportunities, alleviating the isolation they can feel. Newsletters, events and holidays help keep them in touch with each other and there is a help-line for moments of crisis. Around 90 children in and around Swindon have the condition Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 Diabetes). Nobody knows why the pancreas stops producing insulin, but, if not corrected, it can prove fatal. Sufferers need between 1 and 4 insulin injections a day. Unfortunately, diabetes is increasing in young children. It is currently incurable. A child with diabetes will have to live with it for life. For more information about SCWIDD, call Jan Hinder on 764124 or Tina Phillips on 336665.

The Link Magazine • June 1999

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Changes through caring

relate ...

offers confidential counselling 'Caring brings changes' is the theme for this year's National Carers by professionally trained counsellors Week between 7 and 13 June. Few people stop to think what it FOCUS on Carers and Self Help for couples or individuals experiencing would mean if someone they love have organised the following relationship, marital or sexual problems was injured or became ill and events at the Princess Royal Trust • the Swindon Relate centre is open from 9am to 9pm Monday to Friday needed their care. When it hap- Swindon Carers Centre, 25 Morley • waiting lists are short, appointments pens, it is often a huge shock and Street: being available within two weeks of changes their life profoundly. Wednesday9 June,l0am-12noon: initial contact Paid employment may no longer Carers coffee morning and bring • individuals counselled as well be an option or hours may have to and buy as couples be reduced. Increased needs may Thursday 10 June: Open day for we can help if you are having collide with diminished income. Primary Care and Social Services problems and want to work them out, Limited leisure opportunities, staff or if you want to separate, combined with the loss of a soThere will also be publicity or if your relationship has ended cially acknowledged role can lead stands in Boots the Chemist, PMH, to isolation and poor self-esteem. Wat Tyler House and Swindon In- For details, call Relate on 527664 Above all, the relationship between formation Centre. the carer and the person they care For help or to find out more Conservation walk for may undergo a fundamental about these events, contact FOCUS Seven Fields Conservation Group change. on 531133. secretary, Marilyn Beale, is holding a series of themed walks for people to find out more about the Super lunch serves up a tasty soup Members of Toothill Church have started what they call a Super meadows and wildlife located between Penhill and Abbey Meads. Lunch on the fourth Friday of the month. Costing only £1, home made soup, bread, fruit and tea are served Sunday 6 June, 6pm: The work of from 12.15pm. the conservation volunteers "It's a chance for people, whether they are connected with the church or not, to drop in for a tasty light lunch and a chat," said organiser Sunday 13 June: A celebration of Audrey Donaldson. "It is not neccessary to book. Bring a friend, or stop wildflower meadows by and meet new ones. The group also has a clean up on The next Super Lunches take place on 25 June, 23 July and 27 August. the first Sunday of the month. For further details, contact Marilyn Beale on 725067, or meet at the car Mediation where children are involved park off Thames Avenue. The North Wiltshire Family Mediation Service is piloting a national scheme for separating and divorcing couples. A"tIO Under a section of the new Family Law Act, to be fully implemented in the year 2000, couples seeking legal aid for divorce proceedings must first meet with a trained mediator who can help them tackle arrangements for children, property and finances. Family Mediation (North Wiltshire) has been contracted by the No call out charge Legal Aid Board to offer this servWendy Hall of Family Mediation ice free to anyone who qualifies for i mprove communication, reduce Free Home Estimates legal aid. "Nobody will be forced to opt conflict and help ensure the future All repairs guaranteed for mediation; it can only work well-being of children caught up when it is a voluntary process," in divorce disputes." Tel: (0 1793) 731019 The service is also available to says co-ordinator Wendy Hall. "Many more people will find out those not receiving legal aid. For about mediation earlier in their more information, contact Wendy Hall or Karen Taylor on 527285. separation. "Experience has shown that mediation is often effective both in terms of cost and time. It can also Skills to share? The West Swindon Family & ComFor the mature woman munity Project is looking for peoA group for mature women who ple willing to share their creative are facing changes in their lives skills with a small group on occaand who are looking for friend- sional Tuesday mornings from ship and support as they explore September 1999. A creche is availnew directions will be meeting on able for under fives. If you make craft items, decoTuesday 8 June, 8pm. Contact neighbourhood worker rate cakes, have artistic skills, or and member Pam Pixton on 465462 cook creatively, contact West Swindon Family Project on 871303. for more details.

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Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed

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BOUGHT & SOLD Video / Hi-Fi / TV/Microwaves Washing Machines! Dishwashers Fridges! Freezers! Cookers, etc.

• Full guarantees • Top cash prices paid for goods under 5 years old Installation - Delive ry - All leading makes VISIT OUR SWINDON SHOWROOM

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DRIVER TRAINING ••

-•

Call for a free estimate on (01793) 729794 or mobile 0402 921551

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for all your painting & decorating, glazed tiling,kitchen fitting, carpentry, coving, property maintenance Tel: 01793 877859

Covers the full DSA Syllabus Start before your 17th Birthday Full 8 10 hours of supervised training that could cost less than a driving lesson

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For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000

Used by many local driving schools

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Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

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DOMESTIC APPLIANCES

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The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

APPLIANCE RENTALS

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Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters Doubles also available Free installation & local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

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decorating, fitted wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fitted "No job too small" Very reasonable prices Free estimates Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793 - 886022

The Link Magazine • June 1999

l G3G C ^3C LLbLL LL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

IJ4JN!

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines Tumble Driers Twin Tubs, etc. I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

KOVIN

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PROPERTY SERVICES Whatever you need, we will be able to help • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Electrical • Plumbing • Decorating • Carpent ry • Wood • General flooring building Friendly and efficient service High standards guaranteed

Call 525671 or Mobile 0973 760167

Seen a photo r?K4 you want? Pictures in The Link are taken in colour, even if they appear in black and white. Copies are available at £1.50 for 6" x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." To get a copy(ies), send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD. Specify the month and page the photo appears on, with brief description, and don't forget your name, address and telephone number. Photos will be mailed within two weeks.

For Sale

Boys black Raleigh Max bike, 5 gears, 20" wheels, 11" frame, good cond, £40. Tel: 877029 Girls bike, Raleigh Calypso, 24" wheel, suit 7-10yrs, £50. Pine effect 5 drawer chest, £5. Desk, £5. Tel: 870607 Girls bike, Raleigh Little Poppet, suit approx 3-5yrs, exc cond, £25. Tel: 701275 Silver Cross pram/pushchair, Victorian teddy design, c/w sun canopy and rain cover, exc cond, £100. Tel: 882504 Childs divan bed with headboard, exc cond, can deliver, £35. Tel: 873021

Double radiator, 38 ins x 24 ins, £29 ono. Tel: 879401

Atari 520STe, incls. word processing, speadsheet and database so ft ware & 8 games (e.g. 9 Lives, M1 Tank Platoon, Pool, Final Fight, P47 Thunderbolt, Silent Service) £50. Tel: 512278 VTech Talking Whiz-Kid Power Mouse, 20 activities (incl.spelling, tenses, anagrams, addition, subtraction), fun puzzles, plus fully functioning mouse, supports National Curriculum. Suit ages 7 - 11 ,£15. Tel: 512278

Baby's cot, wooden, no mattress, £20. Tel: 512278

(DECORATOR

Baby vanity unit, incl. white bath, changing mat, two shelves underneath, £25. Tel: 512278 Mothercare rabbit design curtains,

lampshade, quilt, and cover, £10. Rocking cradle, seat & toybar, £5. Bebecomfort carrycot, pushchair, plus cozytoes, £50. Tel: 870504 Jeenay Delux Nest'n'Rest car seat with cosy toes, head hugger & sun visor, as new, £17. Tel: 872829 Rag dolls, new, various sizes, fully clothed, one foot to 3 feet high, £6£12, Tel: 725777 Multiplay gym, 2 swings, slide, monkey bars, basketball, £90. Tel: 875395 Avent steam sterilizer, £12, Tippitoes door bouncer, £10, all vgc. Tel: 703650 Mothercare sprung pram, grey, 3 in 1, vgc, £25 ono. Tel: 878062 Girls school clothes, grey pinafore dresses, age 7-8 & 2 x 6-7, grey pleated skirt for age 7-8 , 2 short sleeved white blouses, for age 5-6, all £1 each. Tel: 872607 Girls school summer dresses, green/ white check, 2 for age 7-8 & 2 for age

5-6, 2 green cardigan, age 5-6, all £1 each. Tel: 872607 Converse ladies trainers, brand new, size 5, £15. New circular rug, autumn shades, giveaway, £18. Tel: 701779 Gents black leather jacket, size 40/ 42, cost £150, new, worn once, sell for £60 ono. Tel: 772992 Ski machine, £10. Exercise trampoli ne, never used, £5. Step exercise plinth, £5. 2 bar electric fire, £2. Small wardrobe, suit child, £10. Tel: 876332 Pre ski walking exerciser, perfect cond, £5. Electric light mirror, 24" diameter, in packing case, £10 ono. Battery wall clock, £2. Tel: 875474 Bauer Turbo ice skates, vgc, with guards, £40. Franklin hockey stick, £5. Tel: 877225 Delta enterprise step machine, exc cond, £60 ono. Sponge base sofa bed, £15 ono. Tel: 702425 Modern mirror on shaped teak, ideal lounge, £5. Square 18" mirrorfor bathroom or cloakroom, brand new, £3. Tel: 701779 2 armchairs and footstool, terracotta colour with Aztec pattern, good quality, £100 ono. Tel: 700065 2 brass wall lights, switched, and 2 three arm flush pendants, £69 ono. Tel: 879401

Washstand, grey marble top, blue and yellow inlayed splash tiles, £80. Tel: 512278 Table, wooden, dropleaf style, 42"x 30" fully open, £25. Tel: 512278 Black cane conservatory suite, 2 seater, 2 armchairs, perfect cond, £280. Stainless steel pressure cooker, used once, £28. Tel: 524651 Pine chest of drawers with brass knobs, 6 drawers, £40. Tel: 870792 Curtains, 6' wide, 4' drop, green & silver, matching 3' bed throwover, made by Gilberts, £20. Tel: 692975 Tapley 33 Teak range, glass display cabinet with lighting, £80. 3 drawer cabinet, £50. Low 4 drawer cabinet with record storage, £100. Small display shelf, £30. Vgc, will sell separately or together, will deliver. Tel: 881897 Bedroom carpet, 12' x 9', rose pink, no underlay, exc cond, £20. Tel: 872915 Single bed, 3' divan with storage underneath & headboard, £15. Tel: 695865 Nest of three table, teak effect, £20. Tel: 706702 Solid wood, ex-army desk, 5 drawers with a flap, I: 42", w: 24", h: 29", £25 ono. Tel: 871751 Microwave, Sharp Space-Saver Jet convection and grill, gd cond, £100 ono. Tel: 706702 Technolec 750w microwave, gd cond, £40. Tel: 872955 (eves) Freezer, Candy CV1205, white, manu-

facturers guarantee to Sept 99, sale due to move, 8 months old, new price, £160, only £100. Tel: 879675 New 4 wheeled shopping trolley, with front pocket, brown, £10. Tel: 878694 Formula Tyco World Champion racing car set, many extras, incl speed sound & lap counter, hardly used, £50. Tel: 871742 Answerphone BT Response 400, wall or free standing, with booklet, grey, £40. Tel: 874523 Sega Master System II consul & 14 games, all boxed, £25. Super Nintendo & Scope 18 games, also extra control pad, £40. Tel: 870327

JVC HRJ235EEK videoplus, VHS, hardly used, vgc, £120. Raleigh Cobra 15 speed mountain bike, recently serviced, good cond, £70. Tel: 879147, 5pm - 7pm Monitor, 15" IBM VGA, £15. Tel: 872829 Persona, boxed, as new, £35. Tel: 872829 Stretnor violin with case etc., used once, £50. Single fold up bed with mattress, hardly used, £30. Tel: 704419 Wooden 30 rung extension ladder, £25. Ariston fridge freezer, £45. Phillips food processor, with attachments, £20. Dressing table with mirror, £20. Tel: 421716 Garden shed, 6' x 4', 4 months old, buyer collects, £120. Tel: 615005 Black & Decker electric garden weeder, vgc, £20 ono. Tel: 771036 Plastic boot liner for Vauxhall Carlton estate, genuine part, vgc, £10. Tel: 824562 (eves) Roof rack for car without gutter, fits under top of doors, cost £55, sell for £30. Tel: 700993 Rabbit hutch, new, 47" x 18", felt root, bed & run, 3 doors, weather proofed, £35. Tel: 724512

Wanted Boyzone CDs, mainly early singles, cassette singles or imports, realistic prices paid, unusual merchandise considered. Tel: 07970 218998 Old kitchen cupboards/units in reasonable condition, will pay up to £25,

wanted to fit in garage, anything considered, will collect. Tel: 882945/ 821040 Reliable regular window cleaner, for Bevil, Freshbrook. Tel: 434038 Gas fire, log effect, must be open flame, good price paid for right item. Tel: 487494

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Name & Address (not for publication)

L- Tick - if-you-do not - want - -your-ad to- appear - -on the swindonlink

I nternet

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The Link Maaazine • June 1999

Jubilee 2000: a call on the rich to relieve the debt of the poor

JUST THE JOB Domestic Services Agency requires Domestic Cleaners & Ironers Flexible hours, good rates of pay Phone Jill or Sue on 861112

• Same clay service l Q' • Guaranteed repairs i • For a friendly, helpful service, call J Martin 0 1 Alnwick, Toothill

The campaign to persuade the governments of rich nations to release the burden of debt from poor countries by year 2000 to enable them to concentrate resources on health, education and the wellbeing of their citizens moves to the world leaders summit in Cologne on 19 June. An international demonstration is planned and to set the scene, a huge event takes place in London on Sunday 13 June with speakers, music, church services and a human chain to give a great and colourful send off to a boat sailing to

Professional Hairdressing in your own home

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388 V

, F

Play the Piano

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III

ut lull

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH

o^Evange11c y

Worsley Road

Trust God in all things Z I ^, m

mm m n m=g

Sunday at 10am & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050

CENTRE All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

building with people Come and join us

(Community Suite)

& PINEHURST PEOPLE'S

for some services and also organise outdoor services at Abbey Meads village green until the community facilities at the new primary school are available sometime in September. Plans for a childrens summer holiday club have been p ut on hold.

Millennium Thoughts*. Porn Sandhu considers the foundations of Sikhism just 300 years ago The coming of the millennium has a loose significance to Sikhs with regard to their religion. This is not to say that Sikhism does not include a future forecast for the fate of mankind - a new beginning and the end of kalyug, the Dark Age.

Live with integri ty

SUNDAYS 10.30AM AT THE LINK CENTRE

Last month The Link reported that the temporary community centre is to be removed from Elstree Way so that building of the second primary school can start. Deaconess Maureen Spinks said the church would probably join St Andrew'sCofEChurch, Blunsdon

Tracey on 878217

BC The person who changed History is changing peoples lives Today

Love wholeheartedly

Church heading for homelessness The Church of Christ the Servant Abbey Meads looks as if it will have nowhere to meet in August and probably most of September.

New religion and the Millennium

Mobile hairdressing in the comfort of your own home at prices you can afford Phone: 01793 882186

Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

don Bus Station at 8.40am. Cost: Adults £8, children £5 For more information, call Phillada Ware on 729592.

Cuts from £3.50 For appointments, call

Hair 61 Sarah

earn to Sing

Cologne with a cargo of messages, banners and petitions. A coach leaves Ashington Way, West Swindon at8.30amandSwin-

or call at the Church office Jesus said: "I have come chat YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

LWCAL CHURCHES Al Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) HolyTrinityShaw-10:30amRevdAndrewHetherington:770568

((he Church is at Shaw Village Centre)

St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244

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No S.

Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langs(one Way)

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

Sikhism started in the 15th century (1469 to be exact) at the birth of its founder. Guru Nanak has ten successor gurus the tenth Gobind Singh conferring Guruship to the Sikhs holy book the Adi Granth, which embodies the spirit of the Guru. Briefly, Sikhism believes in the unity of the one God, humanity as one race (also meaning egalitarianism), attaining the love of God (rather than salvation) through meditation, service and self sacrifice in aid of the oppressed, the weak and defenceless. Renunciation of the world is not recognised; rather social and family life is given prominence. Although it remains a pacifist religion, it developed a martial tradition during its growth - the world was becoming shameless, turning the other cheek no longer sufficed. What of now though - 1999? I returned in April from a visit to India to celebrate the 300th anniversary (1699 - 1999) of a major Sikh festival -Baisakhi. This marks the birth of a new religious order, the Khalsa (pure) when Sikh (disciple) became Singh (lion). The new initiation ceremony included'nectar of the sword' (kande ki pahul) - the sword being very symbolic and deemed protector of dharma. It is written that only the Khalsa shall remain, as in Christianity that the meek shall inherit the earth. The celebrations are aptly timed when many are engaged in evaluating the progress of humanity. In

The founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak

this regard the story of Bhai Kanaiya is often quoted showing belief in humanity as one race. This Sikh was brought before the tenth Guru on charges of helping the enemy on the battlefield. Sikhs complained he had been helping and handing water to the enemy. His reply that he only saw the spirit of his Guru not any friend or foe, brought a smile to the Guru's face who said few could understand the spirit of this Sikh. This took place some a hundred and fifty years before the creation of the Red Cross. A book of prophecies (Soh Sakhi) is reputed to exist but its whereabouts are unclear. It is accepted however that the end of the Dark Age would be marked by the break up of the family structure (brother fighting brother) and lapse into i mmorality with children bearing children. Some believe this is happening now.

The Link Magazine â€˘ June 1999

Historic hatchments hung again Two conserved paintings were returned to St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park in early May. The hatchments are coats of arms which would be mounted over the front door of Lydiard House during a period of mourning before returning to the church. The two restored works were painted in 1787 for Frederick, 2nd Viscount Bolingbroke, and for his daughter in law Charlotte in 1804.

Ladies celebrate 20 years out West The West Swindon Ladies Club are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year and are already making plans for the next millennium.

The club, which meets on alternate Monday evenings in the Link Centre, has thirty members aged between 30 and 75. Club secretary Maureen Spours, said, "our club caters for women of The Friends of Lydiard Tregoze part all ages, getting tofunded the restoration. The vicar of St gether for a few Mary's Rev Ann Mackenzie is pic- hours to relax, chat, tured with Mr Gerrard Leighton, make new friends President of the Friends, right, and and listen to our inCanon Brian Carne, formervicarof St vited speakers. We always try to Mary's, in front of one of the rehung make our meetings interesting and hatchnncnts fun and have had guests talking on subjects as diverse as local wildlife and clairvoyance. We also arrange for visits from local craftsmen and women who are only too happy to demonstrate their skills for us. It really can be fascinating". Outings, quizzes and games such as skittles are organised and the club considers itself excellent value for money. Membership is ÂŁ4 a year with a 50p donation to club funds for every visit. The money raised goes towards refreshments and paying for speakers and the hire of the room.

young women come along to our meetings. We are a very friendly bunch and I am sure they would enjoy it." To find out more call Maureen Spours on 871360 or Kath Grayhurst, chair lady, on 522561. Celebrating in verse

Members were invited to write a 20th However the clubis i nother vic- anniversary poem and The Link, tim of the steep rise in the rents at also twenty this year, was asked to the Link Centre. From 12 July the be judge. We chose Diane West Swindon Ladies will be meet- Greetham's entry: ing in the Sunshine Room, Westlea West of Swindon 1979 School, Langstone Way. Swindon ladies were planning The club is always actively seek- how to spend their time ing to welcome new members and "Ladies" they said "a club we shall stresses that age is not important. form," and so West Swindon La"Women tend to have the idea that dies Club was born these sort of clubs are for older Club meetings with talks and outwomen who talk about knitting ings, meant membership soon inand gardening," said Maureen. creased. "We do cater for those interests, And now twenty years later, but all of us are very young at its popularity has not ceased. heart and enjoy hearing about and Well done ladies club, hope your joining in with issues that affect all 20th birthday is just fine, ages. We would love to see more here's to the 30th in 2009.

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