Issuu

No. 217 • June 2000 • Circulation 20,000

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the positive newsforce in West and North Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

Wiltshire Fest steps back a week

Dentists take back knowledge

The Wiltshire Festival advertised on our front page last month has been delayed a week, until the bank holiday weekend, to accommodate headline act STEPS.

Swindon is at the forefront of improving dental health in a poorer country after a visit by two dentists from Ukraine. Fullstorypage 32. Swindon South MP Julia Drown meets Ivan Kovalenko and Kateryna Kormovenko with rear, Swindon dentists Brendon Ball and Richard Swift

The Classical Extravaganza now takes place on 25 August and the Party in the Park is billed for Sunday 27 August. Story on page 19 and win tickets to the Classical Extravaganza, with a yet to be announced very special guest

Swindon celebrates its history on 14 June when the new lottery funded railway heritage centre opens its doors to the public. Prince Charles has agreed to revisit the site to perform the official launch of South West England's newest tourist attraction on 27 June. Story on page 29.

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The Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sir Maurice Johnson officially opened Westlea School's new hi-tech computer room on 10 May. Whilst there, he viewed a Linkstory about the room on our web site, featuring a photograph of Mrs Sturman's class on a 60" computer linked teaching screen. Full story on page 11. Sir Maurice with Westlea headteacher Suzanne Seaton and from left, Sam Pignattelli, Richard Bowen, Krissie Ockwell CYCLES

Wootton Bassett's millennium celebrations. Page 33

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The Link Magazine â€˘ June 2000

Youngsters help out with production The Link magazine is in crisis! Overwhelmed by stories and successful with the advertising, we do not have enough hours in the day to produce Swindon's most closely read publication.

The children on a visit to the Link office with publisher Roger Ogle where they saw this page being made and viewed the story and a photograph taken the previous week on the swindonlink web site. From left, Michael Bowls, Kerry Keane, Nathan Lane, Emon Majdavadhi, Victoria Hill, Sarm Falaki, Steven Cresswell, Amanda Richardson

However a solution is at hand. covering how to become slaves to Peatmoor community primary a deadline. Stephen Welsh and school has just launched a'Leader- Mark Arnell from Motorola have ship for the Future' project where been recruited as project mentors. Link publisher Roger Ogle has eight children have been selected to take on a series of challenges attended classroom sessions to talk over the next year with help from about what makes a good story education consultants Learning and how to take interesting photoWorks. graphs. The pages will be laid out Their first task is to create a two at the Link office from e-mails sent page newsletter aimed at children by the youngsters, but they will be to be published in the July Link. responsible for proof reading and Working with teacher Melanie approving the pages before publiBrough, the pupils are honing their cation. Watch out for the July ediresearch and writing skills, dis- tion.

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The Link Magazine • June 2000

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Mobiles to give confidence to victims of violence Victims of domestic violence are to receive some peace of mind from continued harrassment, thanks to Peatmoor based company Cellular Operations. "This is important where children are involved as it keeps the stability of the family home and helps things return to normality without the upheaval of relocating." Chief Constable of Wiltshire Elizabeth Neville welcomed the support of Cellular Operations. She said that domestic violence is the single highest category of calls to the force, after burglary and car crime. Last year 8,000 of the 40,000 reported crimes involved domestic violence. • Wpc Julie Byrne can be contacted on 528111. • Swindon Women's Refuge. Tel: 536447 Chief Constable of Wiltshire Elizabeth Neville with Nigel Bunter from Cellular Operations, Wpc Ju1 ie Byrne and Sgt. Chris Davies of the Crime Reduction Unit

They have donated ten mobile phones, complete with batteries and chargers and connected to the BT Cellnet, to the Swindon police domestic violence unit which can be lent to victims on a short term basis. The phones have been adapted to only allow 999 emergency calls, but the police will be able call the user. Domestic violence liaison officer Wpc Julie Byrne said domestic violence is more often than not about control rather than anger. "It is the exertion of power and control over a person that makes it difficult for the victim to deal with. We hope the availability of a mobile phone will give them confidence, reassurance and peace of mind to remain in the home rather than flee to a refuge or a friend.

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Disagreements over planning aspects of the 6,000 Haydon III housing development have almost been resolved and a start on building the Northern Orbital Road (NOR) is expected by early July. The Link exclusively reported in month we published a 'wish-list' detailed proposals for housing arMarch that the next stage of Swin- for Wal-Mart, calling upon them eas and the district centre. A pubdon's expansion was delayed for to include leisure, sports and cul- lic exhibition could take place in at least six months untilAsda,now tural facilities at the centre, not September before full planning permission is given. owned by American retail giant just commercial outlets, Van Leer from Abbey Wal-Mart, sorted out a disput eads said, "I was impressed with with the other developers in the North Swindon Development the survey I read in your magaCompany over the terms of the zine. I think it is really important planning permission given by to get in early to avoid the probSwindon Council in early 1999. lems caused at West Swindon DOE ^^EMEN^S They are required to sign binding when people were not consulted legal agreements with the council until it was too late." p^oa^cts ^M P The developers are nearly ready before the development can start. We revealed that Wal-Mart had to sign the agreement with the \(^Sta\\e<s ^ purchased the North District Cen- council to allow a start on the NOR. tre site in our January edition. Last But they will still have to present -

Quality replacement PVCU windows, doors, fascia boards, soffits and claddings

the lick Magazine Published by West Swindon Publications

Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e: linkmagazine@compuserve.com www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor:

Roger Ogle

General enquiries: Tel: (01793) 872282 Stories for North Swindon, Hayden Wick, Tanya Parkinson Peatmoor, Shaw Tel: (01793) 705105 tanyaparkinson @ ameads.f reeserve.com TO BOOK ADVERTISING: Call Jenni Fowler on (01285)861254 Booking deadline: 8 June

Editorial copy date for June edition: 12 June Published: 24 June

Style & Elegance to complement your home Price example: 3m x 2.5m lean-to conservatory from £2,995 3m x 3m Victorian/Edwardian conservatories from £3,995

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 January 1994."

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

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The Link Magazine • June 2000

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After 22 years with a clear majority to run Swindon, the electorate gave the Labour party a kicking at the local elections on 4 May with the Conservatives making big gains from five seats to twenty three.

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All 59 seats were contested with winning all three seats, which repchanges to all but two ward resents over a third of the balancboundaries and a new ward being ing party. created covering AbIn North Swindon bey Meads. At the Conservatives swept up Abbey present there are only Meads in one the first 2,649 voters there (the ever all postal votes average is over 7,000), but this will grow to be held in the Enggreatly in coming land, and two of years. three seats in HayLabour is still the don Wick. largest party with 28 Labour retained a seats and whilst the strong position in Liberal Democrat Toothill councillor David Moredon where they representation re- Cox was made Deputy took all three seats. duced from ten to Mayor on 19 May, with Swindon has beeight, they now hold partner Jenny Dean come a politically the balance of power. Photo: Calyx Multimedia more interesting After a strong presence in West place with opportunity for differSwindon over the last fifteen years ent viewpoints to be heard and since the area was absorbed into debated within the corridors of Swindon, Labour was reduced to a civic power. Organisations such solitary figure in Dave Cox at as the Front Garden Action Group Toothill. Mary Martin for the Con- and the New Mechanics Institute servatives is the other councillor Preservation Trust are hoping that and husband Nick is one of three new perspectives will be brought Conservatives to take all three seats on further house building between in Shaw & Nine Elms ward. The Old Town and the M4, and the Lib Dems strengthened their hold saving of the derelict building in in Freshbrook and Grange Park by the town centre.

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The councillors for the wards covered by The Link distribution area: Abbey Meads

Dr Charles Lister (Con) 165 Whitworth Road Rodbourne Cheney Tel: 490182 Peter Stoddart (Con) 16 Portmore Close Sparcells. Tel: 879127 Justin Tomlinson (Con) 1 Whitmore Close The Prinnells Tel: 870710 Freshbrook & Grange Park (includes The Prinnells)

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James Butcher Housing Association

Michael Dickinson (Lib Dem) 20 Swindon Road Old Town Tel: 538288 Judith Peppitt (Lib Dem) 38 Bloomsbury Close Freshbrook Tel: 887613 Geraldine Robertson (Lib Dem) 4 Sheen Close

Grange Park

Tel: 877356

Moredon (includes Woodhall Park, Pembroke Park, Taw Hill)

Jim D'Avila (Lab) 5 Southernwood Drive Swindon Tel: 705044 Maureen Caton (Lab) 32 Carraway Drive Woodhall Park Tel: 724029 Derique Montaut (Lab) 61 Olive Grove Tel: 491432 Meadow Park Shaw and Nine Elms (includes Peatmoor & Sparcells)

Nick Martin (Con) 12 Cartons Road Middleleaze Tel: 870705 Douglas Stewart (Con) 1 Newmeadow Copse Tel: 882550 Peatmoor Steve Wakefield (Con) 14 Middleleaze Drive Middleleaze Tel: 881962

Haydon Wick

Brenda Craven (Con) 71 Avonmead Greenmeadow Tel: 723493 Ian Dobie (Con) 21 Darius Way Abbey Meads Tel: 706463 Kelvin King (Lab) 27 Pennine Way Ash Brake Tel: 340525

Toothill and Westlea

David Cox (Lab) 48 Wootton Bassett Road Swindon Tel: 615005 Mary Martin (Con) 12 Cartons Road Tel: 870705 Middleleaze

The Link Magazine • June 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Week to celebrate and recruit more volunteers Hundreds of tireless volunteers from the Swindon area help in different ways throughout the community every day and National Volunteers Week from 1 to 7 June is a chance to say a big thank you and celebrate their work. Meet Swindon Volunteer staff during the week: It gives managers and organisations the chance to Thursday 1 June publicly recognise the efforts of volunteers. Groups 12.30pm - 2pm Haydon Centre and organisations of all kinds and sizes will be 2.30pm - 4.30pm West Swindon Centre taking part, from large household name charities to Monday 5 June hospitals and small community groups. 3pm - 4.30pm Abbey Meads Centre The week is also an opportunity to recruit new (to be confirmed) members and generally raise awareness of the volWednesday 7 June untary sector as a whole. To find out more, call Town Centre (Debenhams) 11am - 2pm Swindon & District Volunteer Bureau on 420557 or 2.30pm - 4.30pm Sainsburys, Stratton visit www.swindonvolunteers.org

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Win a great group outing with Mega Bowl and The Link The Shaw Ridge Leisure Park ten pin bowling centre has been renamed the Mega Bowl and has launched the Mega Time-Out club. To mark the launch of the new Membership is free to charities, club, Mega Bowl and The Link are schools, community and youth * rll,ln.r "-' offering a great prize worth over "groups who qualify for discounted £75 per organisation to two lucky •.. rates between Mondays and FriStart the new millennium groups. Win a free game for be'^-"' days, 12 noon to 7pm. tween ten and thirty people, with Normal prices for games are by letting an experienced a burger and fries meal included. £4.25 for adults and £3.75 children. book-keeper take the All you have to do is send a But when booked as an organisastrain from you. letter/card with details of your a tion, the price is only £1.75 per Book-keeping, VAT returns, tax group, charity or school to Kerry person, including shoe hire. • Porter, Mega Bowl, Shaw Ridge, returns done at competitive rates Whitehill Way, Swindon SN5 7DN Also familiar with the new CIS Its a knock out by 14 June. The first two out of the legislation & administration hat win the prize. for the NSPCC Contact Lynette on '''* Left: Mega Bowl offers a great place GWRfm is gearing up for the for a group outing says marketing 01793 705997 second annual It's a Knock-Out manager Kerry Porter and Family Fun Day on Sunday, 4 June at the Science Museum, Wroughton. Over 2,500 people attended last Clic to benefit from year's event, raising £15,000 for mini-bugs the NSPCC and Victim Support, Mini car enthusiasts from SwinWiltshire. Whilst teams from local compa- don will be supporting CLIC nies take part in the knockout chal- (Challenging Childhood Cancer Slaw Village oe^:re For a new style or colour, lenge and grass track grand prix, and Leukemia) by selling fluffy Du ^ e 'Y" (i there will be loads of fun family bugs at £1 each at shows and call in today for a activities, including arena events, events they attend during the year. free consultation To give life to the bug, the Swina funfair, fun inflatables, arts and 2 Park { crafts stalls, live bands and the don's Moonrakers Mini Cluster are with our friendly staff GWRfm's Mega Rig. Entrance is asking bug buyers to take a photo Sw dwe ir^tre of it in an unusual, strange or amus£2 per adult and £1 for children. D"C" ^ qa r 5 06 d 1 The joint beneficiaries this year ing place and submit it by 30 NoShaw Salon, Shaw Village Centre, are the NSPCC and Burton Hill vember. A games console is on House School, a special school for offer as a prize plus other smaller Swindon • Tel: 874825

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Meet the beat man Local area policeman PC Rob Mortimer is continuing his twice monthly surgeries at Freshbrook community centre. In an effort to create closer contact between the police and At other times Rob can be contacted via an answerphone the public, he will be available at the centre on Monday 5 June, at Westlea police station on 891356. 7pm to 8pm and Thursday 22 June, 10am to 11am. To find out more about the NeST or if you or an Rob's initiative is part of the Neighbourhood Safety Team organisation you belong to would like to attend a meet(NeST) project which discusses and takes action on crime and ing, contact Miriam Minty, Swindon Crime and Disorder community safety concerns. Co-ordinator on 466510.

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Last October Jodie Leftwich, 18, spent three months in Ghana on a Raleigh International expedition, the first time the organisation has run projects in the country. Enduring searing heat and torrential rain, the adventurers carried out practical community work and went on treks to discover the beauty of the country. Keen to encourage more young people to do the same, Jodie describes her experience. s we stepped off the plane in A Accra the humidity hit the 84 of us who had gone through the induction and preparation in England. Within the training week we experienced tropical rainstorms that flooded the camp, huge spiders, snakes, lizards and the Long Drops (their name for a deep hole in the ground to use as a toilet). These were home to millions of flies, half a dozen lizards, a couple of snakes and gave off a continuous awful stench.

but we were rewarded with incredible sunsets and night storms • Call Louise on !iSIi across the lake and star filled skies. Our second project was spent in .. 01249 892672 or Ankasa National Park, a relic wet • 07976 815625 (mobile) evergreen rainforest. We put up three buildings made of local materials to encourage eco-tourists to the area. It rained for virtually the whole YOUR time so it got extremely muddy r FI RST CALL making working conditions very FOR GARDENZ hard, but it was great fun. The PET AND nearby river was a big hit, providD1Y (close to the Designer Village) ing a jacuzzi-like bathing site. SUPPLIES During our final three weeks we built a three classroom school with store and office. At 104 feet 80 litre compost £3.99 10m 900 36" x 25mm by 38 feet this was the largwire netting £13.59 40 litre compost £2.85 est project ever under10m 900 36" x 50mm 40 litre peat £1.99 taken by Raleigh Internawire netting £10.19 40 litre horse manure £2.50 tional. Eldorado gas barbecue £49.99 Growbags £1.25 When this was comGarden strimmers £14.99 25 litre John Innes compost pleted it was almost time 3kg charcoal £ 1.99 £2.55 to return to England, but I 5kg charcoal £3.50 really did not want to 3kg Growmore £1.25 leave. I had become so Litre lighting fluid £1.20 3kg blood-fish bone £1.99 close to the other venturBedding plants tray £3.99 3kg lawn sand 99p ers and I had not really Bizzy Lizzy plants tray £4.50 3kg Lawn Weed-n- Feed £2.20 had time to miss home as Geranium £1.25 Grass seed from £l.30/500g we were so active. Fuchsia £1.10 Outdoor tap kit £9.99 I learnt so much in AfJodie with village children during a Surfina £1.05 30m hose pipe starter pack £9.99 rica; about different cultrek through the Ghana countryside Patio plants 90p tures and the way people On week two we set off on our live, but the most I learnt was about first adventure, 7 days trekking myself. I am now confident, inde20kg Bunny Brunch £6.65 20kg parrot mix £12.90 from village to village carrying all pendent, have gained a lot of tolerour belongings on our backs with ance and am well motivated to15kg Russel Rabbit £10.25 Rabbit runs from £40.00 only purified water to keep us go- wards life. 20kg Supreme £7.85 Rabbit hutch £35.00 ing. I had the best experience of a 20kg 50/50 budgie seed £9.99 Bird table £15.00 We climbed Mount Afadjato, lifetime thanks to Raleigh Interna20kg parakeet mix 100 Munchie chews £10.20 £1.49 Ghana's highest mountain at 2,905 tional. ft., followed the ridgeline of the They can be contacted on 0171 DIY Agumatsa range and returned to 3718585 or at www.raleigh.org.uk 5 piece brush set 5 litre masonry paint colours £1.99 Gbledi Gborgame where we Jodie has been an assistant team £9.99 7" roller & tray £2.29 worked on the development of a leader with the Princes Trust work6 litre Ronseal Fence Life £6.99 £2.99 4 litre Creosote recreation park at the foot of the ing with volunteers on commu3 litre emulsion Bergerb/w £6.59 mountain. nity projects around the town for 5 litre masonry paintpaint b/w The second week was spent ca- the last six months and spends her £1.75 Yale keys £8.99 noeing on Lake Volta, the largest weekends as a volunteer with 1.25 litre b/w gloss Berger£3.99 Car keys from £2.50 man-made lake in the world, Raleigh International and the NaBerger colourizer plus the essential guide to choosing colour available stretching 85km between two vil- tional Trust. She hopes to pursue now in rnntt silk colt chaan alncc ,,nilarrnnt n,ncnnnr nnint lages. This was very challenging a youth work qualification.

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Book of memories

Top gymnast visits school

Haydonleigh School hope to have raised over £2,500 in sponsorship A group of year 10 students at Hreod Parkway have celebrated the after a visit by former British gymnastic team captain Hayley Price on arrival of their annual yearbook from the printers in Canada. 25 May The 64 page hardback book is This is the second year running Schools organisation to sponsor full of photographs of events, trips, Haydonleigh have taken part in a talented young sportsmen and concerts, tutor and year groups Super Schools sponsored event women. and general school life. which involved children completTeacher Candida Gee oversaw ing a range of simple exercises, led WI to help kidney unit the project, headteacher Andrew by Hayley and having their photoFleet wrote the introduction and The Haydon Wick Womens Instigraph taken with her. Youngsters the students chose the photos, tute raised £496 at their spring fair also had the opportunity to watch cropped them, wrote captions and on 6 May at the Haydon Centre. the talented gymnast show off arranged page layout. As a result the WI will be donatsome of her routines. "We're really pleased with it," ing £500 to the recently opened Haydonleigh will receive 60% said Sara Brown, one of the team of Swindon Kidney Dialysis Unit. of the money raised to be used to editors. "It was really worth workGroup member Bernice Shails improve resources which support ing on and it will bring back lots of said the support from the public Special Educational Needs. The memories in years to come. and local businesses had been treremainder will go to the Super The team, front Sara Brown, Nicola Miss Gee expects all 275 copies mendous. Inglis. Back, Carla Bowyer, Hannah to be sold for £12.50 by the end of Gilbert, Liz Dowdell term.

Help needed at new centre

Age Concern Swindon is looking for volunteers to help out with activities at a day centre in Haydon Wick. Fessey House, Brookdene is now open every weekday for members from all over North Swindon after centres at Penhill and The Ridings closed. Some of the existing volunteers have moved with them, but more are urgently needed. Various duties include driving members to and from the home, laying tables for lunch, and serving drinks and meals. Volunteer Jane Pattison, who helped out at the Penhill day centre, said, "it gets me out, I enjoy mixing with others." Helpers are needed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays for a minimum of two and a half hours. Full training is given and travel expenses paid. To find out more, call Alex Mullins at Age Concern on 692166.

Twenty year Hreod reunion planned for 1 July Memories, good and bad will be shared with a group of ex-classmates who left the local seconda ry school 20 years ago.

Did you leaveHreodBurna(now the day, so we want to rekindle Parkway) School in 1980? Julie Pike memories. We are expecting peoand Jane Slocombe did and have pie from as far away as Newcastle decided to organise a reunion. and Scotland for the party." Julie (now Graham) and Jane Tickets cost £5 and will be given (now Matthews) want ex-class- out on a first come, first served mates to dress up in their 70's gear basis. They are available from the for the event on 1 July at Moredon Boundary House Pub or by telCommunity Centre. ephoning Julie on 488673 or Jane Julie said, "we had a farewell on 536332. Age Concern volunteers at Fessey House, rear from left, Glynne Taylor, Colin disco exactly twenty years ago to Edwards and Maria Thompson with day centre members, Betty MillerArnold, Margaret Walford, Nora Tanner, Win Collins, Margaret Skillicorn

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The Haydon Wick community bus has vacancies for shopping trips to both Safeway and into Swindon centre. Trips cost 50p and £1 respectively and bus tokens can be used. For more details call the parish offices on 722446.

Minute taker required Haydon Wick Community Association is looking for somebody to take and circulate the minutes of the meetings which are held every third Monday of the month. Full details are available from the Haydon Centre on 706666.

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Wednesday 6pm - 7.30pm Abbey Meads Community School Thursday 7.45pm - 9.15pm Other venues available on different nights Call Sally on (01793) 731148 Membership £6.00 Class fee £4 (First class £10 then £4 weekly)

The Haydon Development Company's office and temporary police post, which was located on the Catherine Wayte school site on Elstree Way, has been moved to Queen Elizabeth Drive at Taw Hill. The telephone number remains the same: 700896.

Officer overload A replacement officer for PC Roger Guy is awaited, but PC 'Q' Sheikh, who covers Haydon Wick and Moredon, has had North Swindon added to his beat. He can be contacted at Westlea Station on 528111.

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Haydon Wick and Blunsdon parish councils are calling a public meeting to discuss the building of a secondary school in North Swindon. The land for the district centre Parish councillors want to know and the secondary school within the views of North Swindon resithe 6,000 home Haydon III devel- dents as to the range and nature of opment is likely to be released early community, cultural and sports fanext year and the first houses will cilities to be provided, the type of be occupied in the Spring. education to be offered and No leisure facilities are currently whether a sixth form should be planned for the district centre. The located at the school, and what outline planning permission for kind of adult learning provision Haydon III expects these to be built there should be. at the secondary school, but SwinThe meeting to discuss these don Council education department issues takes place on Wednesday have not declared their intentions 28 June, 8pm at Abbey Meads for it, or a start date. Community Primary School.

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We now run a free legal clinic at The Abbey Meads Medical Centre on Thursday mornings For advice and assistance on the following:

Accident and injury compensations (no win, no fee) Family and children House sales, purchases and mortgages Wills and estates Call Jackie on 01793 610466 for an appointment email: Jbehan@bowerandbailey.co.uk

Almost nine months after Abbey Meads community school opened its doors, headteacher Marilyn Brown is eagerly awaiting the completion of exterior works so that the look of the building can promote the same warm and exciting environment as the inside. Final work on landscaping and youngsters of all ages designed a the playing field begins in June machine to make an egg travel as when a major retaining wall to the fast as possible. rear is rebuilt. Meanwhile Friends Children who have of Abbey Meads already designed arSchool have been aceas of the playground tively working to will see their plans raise funds for future put to use, as will activities. Mrs Brown equipment in store for said, "we are prepara separate reception ing for a summer fete playground. and are organising an Despite the delays, Expressive Art Week staff, governors, parin July." ents and helpers have The group is lookworked hard to make ing for volunteers to school an enjoyable help with a walking experience for pupils. bus project to reduce An Art in the Park traffic congestion and Week was held in November, cul- provide a healthy alternative to minating in a presentation assem- riding to school in cars by organisbly to parents. ing supervised groups of children In April the school held a Let's to walk to and from school. To Investigate Week, using science, find out more, contact Helen maths and design technology, Brittain via the school. based around the theme of Easter eggs. Junior pupils visited the Help scouting continue Techniquest Centre at Cardiff and Members of the Swindon Abbey Meads scouting movement are Quicker bus route looking for volunteers to help Thamesdown Transport has in- them give more youngsters the troduced a more direct bus serv- chance to get involved ice for Abbey Meads. Beavers, cubs and scouts at AbService 19 has been extended bey Meads school have become from Fleming Way via Cirencester very popular with girls and boys Way, Cricklade Road and Thames- in the area but group Scout Leader, down Drive, providing a bus every John Crowley is concerned that 30 minutes on Mondays to Satur- there are not enough leaders or days between 8am and 6pm. helpers coming forward to sustain Taking advantage of the bus them in the longer term. He is lanes in Cricklade Road the jour- anxious to recruit more local ney time from North Swindon to adults, of any age, to help out. the town centre is estimated at 17 He said, "you do not need any to 20 minutes. The 19 carries onto specific skills, nor children at the the Great Western Outlet Village groups. We will provide training and West Swindon, and the new and plan a programme for you to route will also provide a more regu- follow." lar service for Queensfield and If you can help or to find out Groundwell. more, contact John on 703283.

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Successful, but room for improvement

After school club in pipeline Jennie Cumming from Eastleaze has great plans for after-school provision in Shaw. She has a National Lottery grant, premises and children, but her toughest battle is finding staff. When Jennie moved back to off homework and be taken to Swindon last July as a childminder school, an after school club from for her niece and nephew she saw 3.15pm to 6pm, and a holiday club, the need for group care for school open from 8.30am to 5.30pm. age children. She was encouraged The emphasis will lie on fun to go for it, and with sister-in-law and relaxation, whilst parents will Kim, they plan to open at the Up- have complete peace of mind that per Shaw Farm centre, opposite their children are being cared for," Shaw Ridge School. sa s Jennie. There will be three clubs running Mondays to Fridays. A breakfast club from Sam to gam where children meet for breakfast, finish

KidZone Club A new after school club opening soon at Upper Shaw Farm Community Centre Qualified and experienced playleaders who enjoy working with 4- 12 year olds and have lots of energy and enthusiasm. Rate of pay: £5.25 - £6.25 per hour. For more information and an application form

call Jennie Cumming on 01793 876959 or 07957 551159 Opening date will depend on staff recruitment

Brook Field School has just received a report on its second Ofsted inspection which highlights many areas of strength, but also identifies key issues for improvement Overall the inspectors found the j 489 pupil school provides a caring V7 and positive community in which to teach and learn. It states that teaching is a particular strength, noting that most l *! #' lessons are good or better, with 25% assessed as very good or ex° cellent. The report described the headteacher as providing strong leadership for staff and pupils, being strongly supported by the two deputies. Pupils behave very '' well; their relationships and attitude are good. The partnership with parents is very good and this makes a significant contribution Bwel Field year 4 youngsters stud yto the pupils learning. However the report highlights Aldred, Andrew Rolfe,lTana risk a that the school has failed to mainWadsworth, JoeyAinoah,MarkOlner tain sufficiently high standards of attainment since the last Ofsted vironment and the good partnerinspection. Consequently attain- ship between school, parents and ment overall is too low and stand- pupils. We also accept the key imards are improving too slowly. provement issues raised in the reCommenting on the report Mike port. Dean, chair of governors said, the "In fact as the report states, these school is pleased with the areas areas had already been identified highlighted as being successful. and the staff and governors were These confirm the teaching taking suitable action." strengths, the overall positive en- • Euro connections: see page 17.

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Lord Lieutenant dons full regalia to launch high-tech room Sir Maurice Johnson, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, in military uniform sporting a chest full of medals, complete with ceremonial sword and spurs, visited Westlea School on 10 May to talk about his role as the Queen's representative in the county and to open the new 17 station computer room. A combination of impressive fundraising, good bargain hunting and technical expertise from parents has created one of the most impressive computer suites in any primary school in Swindon. The drive to improve information and technology education came after an Ofsted report in December 1998 described the computers as antiques. Chair of the Friends of Westlea School Sue Godfrey said fundraising events over the last two years had raised £9,500 of the £15,000

ated a special deal with Tangent Benching for the work surfaces. Burmah Castrol, Nationwide and Gigabyte computers have also helped out. The school is linked to the ntl cable network and all chilHeadteacher Suzanne Seaton dren have their own e mail address. During the morning assembly said the school was well equipped to provide the skills needed by Sir Maurice told children about escorting Royal visitors to the children in the future. She paid tribute to the efforts of county. There was an intake of the Friends and also to parents breath when Sir Maurice drew his Steve Orr who set up the computer sword to allow eight year old Jesse suite with help from Steve Godfrey, Howard 'knight' Jack Backwell. and Trevor Carlton who negoticost of the equipment. "The response from parents and supporters has been amazing; their efforts can be seen in the children's education. We never dreamed of seeing such an impressive facility."

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Foxy business A family of foxes under one of the mobiles at Westlea school is being used as an education resource. Although they cannot be seen in the day, the cubs can be heard

through the floor and are smelly says class teacher Anne Wang. The children have written stories about fox life and drawn pictures, but the school will have to pay for preventative measures. Headteacher Suzanne Seaton

said she had been advised that a strong fence will have to be buried in deep trenches around each mobile. "It will be expensive to do anything about them," she said. Pointing out a fox hole, rear, Gemma Pointer, Charlotte Adams. Front, Tom Parker, Jordan Roberts

A Courses available at all levels, small informal groups, individual a ttention, comprehensive manual, ce rtificated. After course guidance and suppo rt .

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The Link Magazine • June 2000

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Link Centre climbs back on top Mountain climbing in Swindon gets a big boost in June when a new top of the range climbing facility opens. A wall built when the centre opened over 15 years ago has been replaced by one five times larger, stretching along the whole side of the sports hall. Now climbers do not have to go to Bristol and Gloucester to develop their skills. The £130,000 facility, partly paid for by a £74,000 lottery grant, means that people will be travelling to Swindon to take advantage of the best in the region.

Climbing development officer Pete Debbage said the Link Centre wall will provide a great challenge for local climbers and those further afield. "The sport has grown enormously over the last few years. The new wall provides a variety of surfaces and conditions, for the learner right through to the most experienced climber preparing for the real thing." Link Centre runs couses for adults and also popular sessions aimed at children. An open day is planned for the weekend of 17/18 June and there will be a chance for youngsters to find out more about courses and to see the wall at the Millennium Youth Games on 25 June.

Badminton club takes on members Greenmeadow Badminton Club has moved to the Haydon Centre, Haydon Wick and is able to take new members. They play on Tuesdays, 8pm 10pm and Fridays, 7pm - 10pm and enter mens, ladies and mixed teams in the Swindon and District League. Badminton is a great way to keep fit. If you are a current player, or used to play and are interested in joining this friendly club, drop into a club night or call Robin on 722584 or Sheila on 644562.

on 465632.

Youth games attractions Spectators will be very welcome at youth game venues. Team Extreme will be demonstrating bike and skateboard tricks. Watch out for details on leaflets at lei-

Reflexology or Aromatherapy could be the answer Call Isabel on 01793 720065

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Follow Rosema ry 's new low-fat eating plan which now includes treats. Combine this with exercise & watch the pounds and inches disappear! Classes in West Swindon and Wootton Bassett

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If you are suffering from: 0 Backache, Leg pain

Youth games needs helpers Young people aged 11 to 16 from Swindon, Wiltshire and Dorset will be competing in the Millennium Youth Games at various sports venues across the town on 25 June. To ensure the smooth running and success of the event, where teams will take part in athletics, hockey, netball, tag rugby, swimming, tennis, basketball and football, more volunteers are needed. If you can help, call Gladys Barr

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Children's verruca surgery open. All other aspects of foot care catered for. Call free anytime on ,.

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Golf for CALM cash

H ^ SARACEN 30 bikes on show, the choice is great - the choice is yours

Team challenge golf day, Thursday 20 June, Wrag Barn Golf Club, Highworth, in aid of Children's Cancer & Leukaemia Movement

Inexpensive transport ready at hand

9 hole Texas scramble in the morning. Teams of four to play an

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For information and entry forms contact Sue Edwards on 791470 Donations of auctions and draw items and also sponsorship welcome

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Cars speeding up and down Stokesay Drive and Idovers Drive, which run on both sides of Toothill School, are a danger to children and adults say Maria Park and Julie Lupton from Kirkstall Close. They raised a 50 name petition 3^' o»e s ^^L ^' during May which was presented to the first full council meeting on 18 May by ward councillor Dave Cox.

Maria said an accident on 5 May at the junction of the two roads opposite Conisborough, sparked them into action. "There are children and parents crossing the roads .'..-;.•i to get to both Toothill and Oliver . '. Tomkins primary schools. They w are in great danger because driv^a 7 ers speed along the road and some- may? ' times cannot see pedestrians be7

•

cause of parked cars. We need

measures to slow cars and better using Stokesay and Idovers to get signs." on Great Western Way. Julie, whose parked car was Coun Cox said the safety review written off on Stokesay Drive re- panel meets in September to concently, believes that Toothill has sider which danger black spots become a 'rat run' for drivers try- should be recommended for acing to beat the queue into town by tion by the council.

Graffiti deleted The barn at Toothill Farm community centre has had a makeover. Until recently covered with bright graffiti, the former youth club on Bodiam Drive has been let by Swindon Council to Toothill Scouts and is now a uniform dark green. The use of the barn as a place fiti art on the barn. "I was surwhere artists could spray graffiti prised that people were having a legally was outlawed by the coun- go at me, but had to explain the cil after residents living closeby long running problems and the complained that the painting and demands for graffiti to be rethe empty cans was unsightly. moved." However local councillor David Cox has received complaints from New graffiti site ready residents who preferred the graf- A project to provide a dedicated graffiti wall, organised by councillor Cox and former Toothill counSweet little terrors cillor Peter Mallinson, will be comToddler group Little Poppets has pleted by the beginning of June. been renamed as the Tiny Terrors Built by Swindon Contractors at and welcomes new members on the landscape depot just beyond Thursday 9.30am to 11pm at the tunnel under Great Western Toothill Community Centre. Way from Bodiam Drive, the eightFor details, call Terri Dulling on een foot wall will provide a place 640415. for artists to express themselves.

Rugger kids revel in new sport Children at Oliver Tomkins Juniors School only took up rugby in February with teacher Joe Lee and came second in their first ever tournament in May involving ten teams of boys and girls. Winning their four preliminary 7 a-side tag rugby games, they narrowly lost in the final to Grange Junior School. Keen on their new game, front from left, Carly Moore, Michael Stanley, James Bain. Middle, Sophia To, Zhongjie Dong. Back, Zoe Sowden, Martin Hardy, Rychknyx Mckenzie, Emma Baker

AT YOUR LIBRARY

See a good film and get ready for a new Harry Potter

West Swindon Libra ry has recently introduced several visible in provements which readers are bound to appreciate, writes Robe: Cotterill, below. and his friends whose ac New furniture has creventures have taken Bri ated attractive and cornain and the world b fortableareasforleisurely storm. reading and private study. The introductions If you are young or nc so young and have nc of'caterpillar'bookboxes in the young children's '► s caught up with the PottE . den and new shelves for phenomenon yet, I sub adult fiction paperbacks gest you go into your 1 braryandstartreadingth have also added to the very first book, Harry Po. excellent facilities, In addition we have a new state ter and the Philosopher's Stone. It i of the art photocopier offering both still popular so put your name o A4 and A3 copies for 10p a page. the reserve list; remember it is free Or if you are keen on Potte If you have been to see a good film recently you might want to why not join the waiting list forth read the book. Why not try Ameri- new title. And don't forget th can Psycho, Clockwork Orange, The library has copies of the first Potte Beach, Angela's Ashes, or The Tal- on story tape read by Stephen Fri entedMrRipley? Or listen to a good West Swindon Library woul story tape either in bed or in the like to hear from groups, adults c car. It's a good way to catch up on children, who have work they ax all those classics you always meant willing to to display in the wid to read but never got around to. window area. It might be picture: The beginning of July is a red embroidery design or anythin letter day for millions of Harry else of interest which will show o Potter fans. JK Rowlings fourth activities as well as help make th Potter story is due for publication, library more attractive to users. If you've been on another planet For more details contact Mari for a while, you won't know about Randall or Barbara Spencer at Wn the magical stories of a schoolboy Swindon Library, tel: 465555

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If you have not tried an After School Club book your child in for a one day trial free of charge* Contact Tracey Bailey on (01793) 875992 for further details Place must be pre-booked

fly F

Triple achievement for pre-school Hard working staff at Brookside Pre-school are celebrating very positive reports from Ofsted and Swindon social services, as well as being presented with a Certificate for the Bristol Standards Quality Award by Julia Drown MP, all within the last few months The pre-school, which is privately run by Pat Russell, caters for ten children per session and has 23 children on its register. The Ofsted inspection, which took place in February describes Brookside as providing a stimulating learning environment for all its children which is likely to ensure the funded four year olds

achieve appropriately in all six areas of the desirable learning outcomes.

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The programme for personal and social development is very good. Programmes for language, literacy, knowledge and understanding of the world, physical and creative development are described as good. Mathematics is described as having many strengths, although the report did highlight the need to provide more planned and practical activities as an action point. There are excellent relationships between children and staff. In March, Mrs Russell received the Certificate for the Bristol Standards Quality Award, which is being adopted by Swindon Borough Council. This includes an evaluation of the pre-school by an inde-

set targets for

the group to achieve. A third 'pat on the back' came after an inspection by Swindon Council's social servPat Russel 1, second from right, with assistants Mrs Russell, Janet A askell and Margaret Liddle and who previously ne of the Brookside children S0I ran the Nine Elms Playgroup at Shaw Chapel port of parents to achieve the high until the building was closed, said standards required by all three or"we've worked hard with the sup- ganisations."

Village pre-school places

Keep safe day for children and parents

Lydiard Millicent Pre-School is now taking names for the September intake. This well established group is open at Lydiard Millicent parish Hall on Monday, Thursday and Friday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. For more information and to reserve a place, call Debbie Tyson on 534426.

The North Swindon Family Project is organising a day on 1 June for children aged 5 to 10 years and their parents to find out more about issues like stranger danger, home safety and bullying. There will be talks and demonstration aimed at the appropriate age from police, fire and road safety officers. For details, call 705810. Practical priorities for parents A workshop for parents on how to survive a long hot summer is being held at the West Swindon Health Centre on Tuesday 18 June, 9.30am - 12noon. The cost is ÂŁ1. To book, call 723705.

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The Link Magazine • June 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Royal reception for teachers

CRAFT

Greendown School teacher Tim Noble and Karen Winterburn of Tregoze primary joined two other teachers from Swindon and many hundreds from around the country to meet the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace on 3 May. Both were nominated for their involvement in teaching Shakespeare, and Karen for her work making contacts with schools in Australia. Tim, who coordinated the West Swindon Schools Shakespeare Festival, said it was a remarkable experience. "We met people from all over Britain involved with innovative projects. There was an opportunity to meet the Royals who progressed slowly down a long line, but it was more interesting to talk to Education Ministers David Blunkett and Estelle Morris, and other teachers. Karen said, "it was a really good experience. The palace was breathtaking and I was really pleased to meet a couple of teachers I trained with eight years ago."

SWINDON Clock, Watch & Jewellery sales, servicing & repairs A professional service for those treasured items

Find us at

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Left: Tim Noble as the psychopathic Titus Andronicus in the Greendown teachers presentation at the end of the Shakespeare Festival

Collection/Delivery of large items can be arranged

Visitor builds school Euro contacts Danish head teacher Svend Bergland spent a day in Swindon on 5 May as part of a project to build links between his school, Brook Field School and a third in Finland. Children from each school have tralised curriculum; in Denmark to set up a joint web site later in the been exchanging photographs, each school creates its own cur- year to exchange and display work. project work, videos and e mail for riculum from a framework laid Brook Field can be found @ over six months, and headteacher down by government. We meas- www.brookfield.swindon.sch.uk Roger Nicholas and information ure the process of education by technology coordinator Dale Burr assessing targets set for each child QUALITY PC TRAINING met up with teachers from all the made in consultation between the 3 Private personal computer schools in Denmark in November. teacher and parent. The school training (Microsoft) 3 Learn wordprocessing, spreadsheets, databases 3 Hours to suit

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Tea or Coffee? Making the connections: Svend Bergland, front with Brook Field School headteacher Roger Nicholas and children, from left, Beth Thompson, Rachel Green, Tamarisk Wadsworth, Emily Crowhurst, Hannah Brown, Daniel Nield, Joseph Rejek, Joe Shipcott

Making his first visit to Brook Field, Svend, who is head of the Voldum School for 6 to 14 year olds near the town of Aarhus, said backing for the project came from the European Comenius programme, and works under the slogan: 'foreigners are just friends you do not know yet.' "Classes are exchanging a lot of information and there are plans for teachers to meet up to share ideas. We also have a study running on how education is evaluated in different countries." He expressed amazement that so much money and effort is spent on the Ofsted inspection process, Brook Field having been inspected just before the Easter holidays (see page 10). "Ofsted is much concerned with the product of a cen-

states what it will achieve and parents have to make commitments as to how they will be involved, such as reading with their child every evening." He was impressed by what teachers in Britain achieve with more children in less space. "In Denmark there might be 8 to 20 children in a bigger room. Here the teachers have great classroom management skills; their use of resources and the displays are tremendous. In much bigger classes, the children have good self-discipline and take responsiblity for their learning. "Brook Field is a sparkling school; it reminds me of our word hygge, which roughly translated means feel good and comfortable." The three schools involved hope

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North Swindon MP Michael Wills, Parliamentary under secretary of new study computer centre at Swindon Town Football Club sponstate for education and employment with responsibility for informa- sored by cable providers NTL and Nationwide Building Society - the tion technology, comments on the launch of the second phase of the largest of its kind in Britain.

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On 12 May I was delighted to open the new study centre which is part of a national network of community based IT learning centres launched under a national initiative 'Playing For Success.' The suite has a bank of computers enabling students to study out of school hours and those already in the workplace to update their skills. I was also pleased to present IT certificates to adults who had completed courses there. I was struck by how much the worlds of work and learning have changed in the last ten years. Our world is being transformed and the engine of this change are the new information and communica-

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Zahera Tanweer and pupils from Drove School show off the equipment in the study centre to Michael Wills

tion technologies, epitomised by • The new study computer centre the Internet. in the Arkell's stand is named afI q, New and more convenient ways ter the late Cecil Green, a long Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water ,` of working, learning, shopping and serving player, manager, director 24 hours a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled\ \ f socialising have been created. But and chairman of the club. Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered. ^° many people risk being margin260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172 alized as these new technologies become ever more central to our lives. Over 60% of new jobs in the USA require advanced technological Professionally drawn by skills making it increasingly diffifor those without them to find The Andrews Partnership (01793) 642245 cult work. We need to tackle this 'digital divide' before it becomes enA professionally prepared will can avoid From £25.00 inc. trenched. Home visit service delay and distress for your family This is why the Government is from £35.00 inc. i spending £1.7 billion over the next three years to make sure that everyBevirs Solicitors for Independent Financial Advice one is able to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the inforCajun and Zydeco See us first for impartial guidance mation revolution. By 2002, every ACADIA plus The Hackney Ramblers school in Britain will have access on investment and money matters to the Internet - in Swindon this Offices in Swindon, Wootton Bassett and Caine goal has already been achieved. Salsa The National Grid for Learning Contact Jeremy Angell on 01249 814536 GRUPO X & The Diablito DJs and the University for Industry Authorised by the Law Society to conduct investment business will enable everyone to learn over Tr M ' j Jazz Roots the Internet. £250 million will be JAll JAMAICA spent on ensuring that teachers can use information and communicaplus The Real Macaws tion technologies to best effect in the classroom. A national network Tickets from £6.50/£5.00 concs Garden Design and Consultancy 1 of 800 IT learning centres will be Catering & Bar. set up by 2002 to widen access to Doors 6pm - 10.30pm these technologies. And up to 100,000 recycled computers will be provided for low-income families in the inner cities. Link Centre (01793) 445566 We can provide written reports, garden plans, This Government has always & Swindon Information Centre plant selections, costings and DIY advice. been committed to creating a soci(01793) 530328 You select the level and amount of help you require. ety where everyone can make the most of themselves. And we are Svenin Our aim is to design SWI D8n working hard to put the opportu^^ ddrertiur For free initial visit garde eels nities offered by the information Tel: (01793) 750376 a your needs. revolution within the reach of

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Wilts Fest put back a week to fit in STEPS Win tickets to the Classical Extravaganza Crisis hit the Wiltshire Festival as the May Link was being printed when headline act STEPS announced they were pulling out to make an appearance in the USA, despite a signed contract and money in the bank.

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munity Gospel Choir. They will be However the problem was rejoined by a very special surprise solved when the group, voted the tra mile..) we g artist to be announced next month. 'Best Live Selling Act' in 1999 at Prices for tickets booked the recent Brit Awards, agreed to before 31 July: appear in Swindon the following 16 seater - with driver Classical Extravaganza £18. UnSunday. Amazingly Lydiard Park der 9s £5. and all the other acts for the weekAirport transfers Party in the Park £19. Under 9s end were available, so the whole Private & contract bookings £10. festival was shifted a week to: All tickets are subject to a bookLocal and long distance Friday 25 August ing fee and are available from Link Classical Extravaganza ... it's a minibus ..it's spacious and Oasis centres, and Swindon Sunday 27 August ..it's safe .. it's the BUSiness Information Centre. Party in the Park 07901 944 130 The credit card hotline is open Organiser Andy Cotton said, "to have the biggest act ever at the with a great future, Esensual, are seven days a week 11 am to 9pm: 07776 346 978 Wiltshire Festival walking away being given their big break as well. 01285 862858. For the more mature in the audifrom us after a quarter of the tickets had been sold was a bit fright- ence ex-Spandau ballet heart throb ening. Thankfully we were able to Tony Hadley returns after a maswork out a deal; it's incredible that sive set at last year's festival. Also everybody was able to rearrange appearing will be Motown legend Visit this highly recommended restaurant besides Peatmoor Edwin Starr, performing some of their schedules." He said some tickets holders his all time great soul classics Lagoon. The authentic Chinese pagoda housese the largest The Classical Extravaganza Chinese restaurant in Britain with an extensive la carte menu had obtained refunds because the date is not convenient, but these sees the return of conductor Jae specialising in Cantonese, Peking and Szechuan cuisine Alexanderwith the English National are no longer available. Joining STEPS are a whole raft Symphony Orchestra, joined by the of current chart achieving acts The world renowned bass baritone Vengaboys, Fierce, Atomic Kitten Willard White and soprano Maria and Scooch. Swindon girl group Kessellman. and the London Com-

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Win a pair of tickets to the Classical Extravaganza on 25 August We have 5 pairs to give away to those who can tell us the winner of the Brit Award for top female classical artist in 1999' Send your answers to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 16 June.

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That was the festival, that was Matt Holland, Swindon Festival of Literature director, looks back on two weeks of words and wonders From the first unforgettable moment at dawn in Lawn Woods, when a lone piper stood silhouetted in the morning mist on a stone pillar high on a ridge overlooking the town and played us into May morning and a white horse with flowing mane came galloping into view from the valley below, to the last hilarious anecdote from fridge-carrying tennis player Tony Hawks at the Arts Centre 13 days later, the seventh Swindon Festival of Literature was a buzz of entertaining intellectual and emotional excitement.

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Terrific stuff. In fact, brilliant! Festival of Literature is what it

was called but as a 13 day celebration of life, that included dawn frolics, woodland walks, poems and pints, literary seduction, laudable lectures, secrets of consciousness, suffering scientists, crop circle capers, millennium conversations, seven summits speakers, seductive storytelling, ballads and blues, plus exploratory chat to write home about, it defied description. In such a feast for the mind, that attracted more than 2,000 people to over forty events, half a dozen of which were sold out, highlights are hard to pick, but there were certainly some memorable moments. Kate Adie, fresh into Swindon from the Zimbabwean front and looking positively chic in shifting slit-skirt blue, was entertaining, eloquent, and outspoken on all things topical and tricky. She reckoned we live in an age of too much choice and fussiness, atime where if your budgie falls of its perch, you call for a counsellor. Professor Ken Robinson, flown in from the USA, gave a riveting Clive Brain Memorial Lecture in which he warned of the dangers of teaching children in key stages, because they do not grow up in key

stages.

In Ravensroost Woodson a glorious afternoon among bluebells, children and grownups were held spellbound by puppeteers and storytellers, while at the Town Hall, courageous competing poets wowed a full house and had everyone baying for more. And there will be more literary treats in store in 2001. Mark your

diary: 1 - 12 May. Meanwhile, to keep in touch with the joy of text, why not join the Literature Festival reading group. It will meet monthly in convivial surroundings with good books and good chat. For further details, telephone 77 1080.

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Local singer aims high At 19, Kim Rivers from Abbey Meads is possibly Swindon's youngest chorus mistress, having led the Stage Struck company in a sell out performance of Music Express at the Wyvern Theatre in midMay. The concert included songs from shows such as Starlight Express, Whistle Down the Wind and Anastasia. It was Kim's third show and she readily admitted, "the older I get, the more nervous I am." Kim has been singing for about 12 years. She started having lessons and proKim, centre, with a few of the sixty gressedtofestivalsandschool strong Stage Struck cast, front Janie productions. She joined Stage Goodenough, Marie Matthews, back, Struck eight years ago and Sharon Rose, Hailey David, Sharnia has successfully passed her Manners grade 8 singing exam with teacher Sarah Jeffries. As chorus mistress Kim consults into each song." with the music director in the choice But now she is now reaching for of songs for a show. She then greater heights. With fellow singer teaches music and harmony to the Lydia Lever they have started a other40members. "I have to stand duo called Vizion and are busy in front and put effort into pulling practising their act ready to launch the whole thing together," ex- into a professional career. Kim plained Kim. "I love the added said, ''our ambition is to be really responsibility and the extra buzz successful." that comes from it." If you would like to join Stage Singing is a great stress reliever Struck, call David Wainwright on because so much emotion goes 535052.

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Swindon Art & Craft Outlet Continues to Expand! Framework Art & Craft, was established in 1988 by Alan Miller and daughter Karen. Their aims were to provide the widest range of art & craft materials to Swindon people, a comprehensive picture framing service and to offer mail order on a wide range of their products - all at very competitive prices. This has been achieved over the last twelve years and they are still expanding. If you are a crafter, student, artist or even if you have never wanted to draw and paint or learn a craft, you are bound to find something of interest. Don't be afraid to go along and speak to Alan or Karen, they will be only too pleased to show you how to take up a craft - there are many to chose from.

For crafters they have silk on the roll, made-up items and silk paints, glass and ceramic paints, fabric paints, rubber stamping, Pergamano, quilling, rug making, blank greeting cards, candle making, modelling clays and tools, mosaic tiles, airbrush, daylight lamps and bulbs and all sorts of odds and ends from lolly sticks to feathers. For quitters they have threads, needles, wadding, plus a full range of accessories. For the student and artist they have paints, brushes, pastels, papers, card, portfolios. DIY framing supplies and equipment. Students can be guaranteed low prices throughout the year, eliminating the need to buy everything before the start of term. For cross stitch they have threads, beads, kits, fabrics, needles, scissors, tapestry wools and kits.

Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ Tel/Fax (01793) 513069

Childrens products: Hama beads, pencils, crayons, painting by numbers sets, plus many more items. This is just a taste of what they have to offer, go and have a browse. If you can't find what you want, always ask. You are guaranteed to save money at Framework Art & Craft.

Hours of opening Mon/Fri 9.00am to 5.30prn Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm Free parking Please phone for directions

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Thursday 1 June Comedy Helen Lederer's One Night Stand, with Tim Mcarthur. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £11 Saturday 3 June Music Musicals and More, prerented by Stagestruck. Wyvern Theatre, 7.30pm. £10.50 Training Didgeridoo. Make and learn how to play this instrument. Arts Centre, 1 Oam-4pm. £17 Family Pinocchio - songs, colourful costumes and audience participation, suit 3yrs - 93!. Arts Centre, 1.30pm and 4pm. £5 Children Buried Treasure. Craft activity for 5-11 year olds. Swindon Museum. £2, book on 466556 Sunday 4 June Music Colin Blunstone and Rod Argent, both ex Zombies members. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14.50

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Leisure The Great Swindon Cycle Ride. Choose between a 30 or 60 mile route. 10am. Adults £9, juniors £6. Call 433165 for details Wednesday 7 June to Saturday 10 June Music Ten In a Bar: Spaced Out. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £6 Friday 9 June Drama Oleanna. Controversial play presented by the London Classic Theatre Company. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9.50 Saturday 10 June and Sunday 11 June Music Thank You for the Music, presented by Thamesdown Ladies Choir. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £6.50 Saturday 10 June Children Magic Mirror, craftevent 5-11 year olds. Swindon Museum. £2. To book call 466556

June overview Saturday 10 June Flower show Pelargonium (geranium) show. Western Community Centre, Somerset Road. Leisure Town Centre Tours. A guided walk of historic Swindon. From Steam museum, 3pm. £3.50, tickets from Information Centre Tuesday 13 June and Wednesday 14 June Drama Hamlet - Prince of Denmark. Presented byThe NewMatic Youth Theatre Company. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £7.50 Thursday 15 June Music Thea Gilmore, The Lipstick Conspiracies. Bitter-sweet folk singerwith a pure voice. Arts Centre, 8pm. £6 Friday 16 June Music The Steve Gibbons Band. His music and self-penned songs have influences of blues, country and even psychedelia. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Saturday 17 June Music Dave Swarbrick and Kevin Dempsey in Cofa. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Saturday 17 and Saturday 24 June Training Sculpture in Stone. A rt s Centre, 10am-4pm. £22 Sunday 18 June Comedy Jimmy Jones. This adult only show is back by popular demand. Wyvern, 8pm. £11.50 Monday 19 June Adult Men 0 Men, starring Rebel Red. A women's evening of entertainment and muscles. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £12 Thursday 22 June Music The Producers. Winners of the 1999 'Blues Band of the Year' award. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8 Thursday 22 June to Saturday 24 June Dance The Wizard of Oz, presented by the Estelle School of Dance. Wyvern, 7.30pm and Saturday matinee 2.30pm. £6 Saturday 24 June Family The Wind in the Willows. A rt s Centre, 2.30pm. £5 Children A Life on the Ocean Wave. Craft event for children aged 5-11. Lydiard House. £2. To book call 770401 Leisure Town Centre Tours. A guided walk of historic Swindon. From Steam museum, 3pm. £3.50, tickets from Information Centre Sunday 25 June Family Big Time American Wrestling, featuring Earthquake and The Bushwackers. Wyvern, 2pm and 7pm. £10 Wednesday 28 June Leisure A Tour of Old Town. A guided walk of historic Swindon. From Old Town Square, 6pm. £3.50, tickets from Information Centre, Regent Street

23 Thursday 29 June to Saturday 1 July Drama Nunsense II, presented by the Strolling Players. Profits to the Prospect Hospice. A rt s Centre, 7.30pm. £5 Friday 30 June to Sunday 2 July Leisure Working Weekend at Lower Shaw Farm - time for weeding, sowing and mowing. No charge. Call 771080 for details

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The Barn, 116 High Street Blunsdon, Swindon

Thursday 1 June, 7.45pm Loves Labour Lost (U) Wyvern. £3.95 Friday 2 June, 7.45pm The Beach (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Friday 2 June, 7pm The Tichborne Claimant (PG) A true story set in 1870s of an aristocratic family whose heir is 'found' by the family butler in Australia and returns to claim his inheritance. Starring John Gielgud, Steven Fry and Robert Hardy. Arts Centre. £6. An Arts Centre/cre8 Studios collaboration Monday 5 June, 7.45pm Any Given Sunday (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Tuesday 6 June, 7.45pm Erin Brockovich (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Wednesday 7 June, 7.45pm Cider House rules (12) Wyvern.

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Thursday 8 June, 7.45pm Talented Mr Ripley (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 June, 7.45pm The Muse (PG) Arts Centre. £3.50 Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 June, 7.45pm Wonderland (15) Set in London, Gina McKee and Ian Hart star in a story of three sisters one Bonfire night weekend. Arts Centre. £3.50 Monday 26 June, 7.45pm Lake Placid (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Tuesday 27 June, 7.45pm The Insider (15) Wyvern. £3.95 Friday 30 June, 7.45pm Mission To Mars (PG) Wyvern. £3.95

See a free film at 1

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Wednesday-Sunday and Bank Holidays 11 am - 5pm (last admission 4.30pm) TRACTOR &TRAILER RIDES

Birds of prey & archery Wednesday & Friday Goat racing & sheep shearing at weekends • Bottle feed & meet all the farm animals • Rural craft demos • Granary Tea Rooms • Bouncy castle and ball pond • Toddlers indoor play area • 7 Nature walks

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The first Swindon Farmers Market 1 June, 9am - 5pm Wharf Green, Swindon (by the covered market) Ten local farmers offering fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, eggs, pies, cakes & plants

Family events at Lower Shaw Farm Wednesday 14 June, 10am-5pm Open Day Come and find out about the ^'^a new Lower -x

The Creation by Haydn Presented by Swindon Choral Society with singers from other choirs Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm St Peters Church, Eastleaze Soloists: Welsh National Opera soprano Anna Margolis, Swindon's own tenor Roy Rashbrook and member of Westminster Abbey ChoirSimon Birchall, singing bass. Accompanied by London based Chameleon Arts Orchestra, conducted'by David Truslove. Tickets at £8, £5 concessions from the Arts Centre, tel: 614837, or from members

' de Boogie on into to the bowl A season of open air global music takes over the Old Town Bowl on four Saturdays during the summer. Never mind what the weather might be, the sounds will be exotic and exciting, perfect for a picnic and a bop in the Town Gardens. On Saturday 10 June, Acadia and New York. There's a fiesta feel on 29 July and the Hackney Ramblers play the infectious rhythms of cajun and when Jazz Jamaica and the Real zydeco and will have everybody Macaws bring a brassy blast of jumping. There's a dance work- New Orleans Mardi Gras and Rio shop at 6.15pm for beginners to Carnival to Swindon. Tickets before the concerts are get you in the mood. It's Salsa Night on Saturday 8 £6.50 (conc £5) or £20 fora family; July with Grupo X and the Diablito from the Link Centre, Oasis or DJs creating an irresistible combi- Swindon tourist information cennation of sounds from Venezuela tre.

Prize winner in musical language ^ ^t .

When singer Stephanie Excel from Grange Park started to study music theory last year she never expected to win a prize for her efforts.

Although she passed Shaw Farm grade 8 piano many lottery funded Children's Project. years ago, Stephanie No need to book, free admission, decided to improve her refreshments on sale. All welcome understanding of theory to work towards an Friday 16 June, 6pm - 9pm Campfire and stories family associateship with Trinity College, London and evening Bring a picnic. Soup and rolls for be able to teach music at sale. Entry: Adults £2, children £1, an advanced level. "I was really taken aback when family ticket £5 received a letter of congratulation For details of these and other for achieving a distinction at grade events, contact Lower Shaw 6 and being awarded a £50 prize," Farm, Old Shaw Lane, Swindon she said. Tel: 771080 Stephanie joined Swindon's

First city festival takes place on 29 and 30 July

Whether Swindon achieves city famed Kentwood Choir status or not, it is still going ahead in January 1999 as a with a city festival. The town centre will be filled with trainee, having been inspired at a concert in aid exotic sounds and sights, from Braof MacMillen Nurses zilian acrobats and walkabout cowhilst her husband Paul medians to pyrotechnicians and was receiving treatment carnival musicians. During June and July Bristol for cancer. "Joining Kentwood is based circus company Cirque Bijou li ke being in a big family. will be organising workshops for I' m presently serving an appren- schools and community groups to ticeship and learning the repetoire learn carnival costume making, stilt of nearly a hundred pieces of mu- walking, junk drumming, street sic by heart. It's a great deal of fun dance and theatre to prepare for combined with hard work for every- the grand festival procession. Look out for details next month. body involved."

More in Store Sunday 25 June 2000,

Kingsdown Crematorium

1 0.00 - 17.00 Admission:Adults £5, Children & OAPs free A rare opportunity to see inside the Science Museum's deep storage hangars and find out what lurks in the far corners of the National Collections.

NOPEN DAY Sunday June 25th 2000

Be amazed at the variety and size of our objects, many of which are not normally viewed by the public.

Tour of facilities from 10.30am until 2.30pm

Science Museum Wroughton Wroughton Airfield, Swindon

Open Air Service of Remembrance at 3.00pm

Tel: 01793 814466 fax: 01793 813569 Email: m.atkinson@nmsi.ac.uk www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/wroughton The Science Museum is located just off the A4361 Devizes Road. From Junction 16 of the M4, follow the sign to Wroughton and Science Museum //

SCIENC E MUSEUM

For further details please contact Martin Day Tel. (01793) 822259 Service prepared on behalf of Swindon Borough Council

SwinDon BOROUGH 000CIL

Kingsdown Crematorium Upper Stratton Swindon

Scvuid /tde Summer Fundraising

Swindon Anglo-German Society

Oliver Tomkins School Beaumaris Road, Toothill Summer Fete Saturday 24 June, 1.30 - 4pm

Westlea School Country Fayre Saturday 1 July, 1.30pm Free admission, country dancing, stalls, auction, myste ry prize draw

Tregoze School Summer Fete Saturday 24 June, 1 pm - 4pm Theme: Australia Olymoics 2000 Stalls, driving lessons, fire engine, barbecue, raffle: 1st prize 2 week holiday in Turkey, best Sheila & Bruce fancy dress competition

from programme

Skittles evening Monday 5 June The White Ha rt , Wroughton £6 per head, incl buffet Open to all German speakers Call David Hart on 524726 to reserve a place

Happy Hours Playgroup Table Top Sale Saturday 10 June, 1 pm - 3pm Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street Pitches: £4/£6 on the day. Admission: 10p For fu rt her details tel: 618192 Windmill Hill School Uxbridge Road, Freshbrook Summer Fete Friday 16 June, 5.30pm - 7pm Admission 20p Shaw Ridge School Summer Fete Saturday 17 June, 12noon - 3pm In aid of school funds Haydon Wick School Summer Fayre Friday 23 June, 6pm Stalls, barbecue & bar, gladiator duel, bouncy slide, pony rides and much more. Ent ry 20p

Flower Festival 2000 St Mary's Church, Lydiard Tregoze (the church in the park) Friday 30 June - Sunday 2 July Church open: Friday & Saturday 1 Oam - 6pm & Sunday 2pm - 6pm Summer Fayre Saturday 2pm - 4pm Fun for all the family

THE DROVE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery For all your pets needs when healthy or ill Opening hours: Mon - Fri gam - 6.30pm Saturday 2pm - 4pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 11am -12.30pm, 2pm - 4pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 2 - 4pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Vete ri nary Hospital - Telephone (01793) 52248 3

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE ^" enr6

Brunel - The Great Engineer Competition winners Mrs M Robins, Kennet Ave, Swindon; Mr PF Hughes, Silchester Way, Westlea; Mr FRJ Stone, George Tweed Gardens, Shaw; Mr SN Clarke, Sutton Park, Blunsdon; Mr M A rt hurs, Whittle Close, Chippenham

Worried who will look after your pets whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer

comc_r

Brook Field School Summer Fayre 2000 Friday 14 July, 6pm Stalls, balloon release (£1 in advance), face painting, strawberries & cream, displays Stalls £5 or 10% of takings Tel: 874099

The Russian Connection An informal get-together takes place on Friday 9 June, 8pm, at the White Hart, Stratton. The group aims to bring together people interested in Russian language and culture. Friends and ideas are welcome

PETS AT HomE

9167^r

Unit 5 Abbeymeads Village Centre Elstree Way Abbeymeads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

Abbey Meads School Wild West Fete Saturday 8 July Stalls, entertainment, rides followed by evening barbecue and line dancing Organised by the Friends of Abbey Meads School Volunteers needed. To offer help call Shaun Wilkinson on 703450

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 9PY

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS • Stefania Glowka DVM MRCVS Michelle Lindsay BVM&S MRCVS

Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

Planning a holiday... but worried about your pets

Don't worry The Pet Adventure team provides a top class professional confidential service within your home that caters for all your pet needs

No job to small Contact 01793 703868

Why buy expensive pet foods from the shops when Trophy can be on your doorstep with a range of quality pet foods offering superior nutrition at very affordable prices.

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The complete I and healthy diet for EVERY household pet For information I and free sample, contact your local agent: Wendy & Roy Rudkin.

Tel: 01793 873021

"•s° ' Thameswood Small Animal Hospital Helping you care more for your pet Swindon's most modern small animal hospital, situated in North West Swindon, offering high quality surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring, friendly and professional environment.

Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE SAMPLE FREE PARKING • 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE,

The Link Magazine • June 2000 LPG & Natural

PARE

Gas Services

• Boilers • Fires & fire places

Dennis Brown Gas Engineer

• Cookers • Boiler changes

29 Meares Drive Shaw, Swindon Tel: 01793 874742

• Also riverboat appliances, installation & servicing

Mobile: 0468 027860 • Aga, Rayburn specialist Sponsor to Wroughton Shotokan Karate Club

• Plumbing

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DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE flour 4oca2 R'e ct Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates

Cars - Vans • Lutons - Tail-lifts 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

Tel: 822193

Funds flood in

Sad end for Shaw 'Sunshine Room'

Students at Greendown School The tempora ry community hall at Shaw, next to the doctor's surge ry, raised over £535 from a non-uni- has been condemned by health and safety inspectors forcing Jellytots form day in early May in aid of playgroup to be relocated to Roughmoor social hall. the flood victims of Mozambique. Marco Recchioni said, "you don't see the disaster on TV anymore, but the problems are still going on. We should help as much as we can and stop wasting what we have." Fundraisers who organised a sponsored silence, from left, Vanessa Hutchinson, Laura Brown, Stacie Pitcher, Lisa Dudek, Michael Giles, Marco Recchioni

The bright yellow portakabin first appeared in Westlea soon after the residents arrived in the early 1980s. They protested bitterly that Thamesdown Council provided temporary meeting places for Toothill and Freshbrook but Westlea landowners Bradley's had not considered the needs of people buying houses in their area. The building was replaced by the purpose built George and Ann Euro veterans Tweed social hall at Westlea School Inspired by Euro 2000 the Green- and moved by the council to Shaw down Vets football club is organ- in 1988. ising a 6-a-side tournament for Thamesdown Council allocated over 35s on Saturday 8 July. £21,000 for design work for a perThe emphasis will be on football manent community centre on the in a gentlemanly fashion. site between the Village Inn pub To enter a team, or to register and Holy Trinity Church, but a your interest in making one up, capital budget was never identicall Peter Cejer on 876696. fied.

Chairman of the Shaw Residents' Association Steve Brown said Shaw needs a large meeting place. "Taking in Ramleaze, Middleleaze, Nine Elms and the streets off Cartwright Drive, the area has about 3,500 homes. The schools and the church have restrictions on their use; we need a hall for badminton, perhaps a licensed bar and a place for youth to go." Court Barrie Thompson, lead member with community responsibilities on Swindon Council's new cabinet, said financial restrictions had prevented positive action on the Shaw project. "We need to hear the views of Shaw people and to discuss how we can work together." Let Steve Brown know what you think on 339729.

SUPERGLIDE WARDROBES

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Are you friendly and

outgoing? We require part time and full time staff (12-39 hours), to help us provide the best service in the Bingo industry. We have a variety of shifts available, both afternoon and evening as well as week-ends, especially in our catering department and bar and as floor stewards. In return for your great service we can offer:

• £4.10 per hour starting rate

• Chance to earn bonuses

• Full and ongoing training

n Staff & family discount across other Rank companies such as Haven and Warner Holidays

• 50% discount on staff meals • Holiday pay scheme • A smart uniform

Are you a qualified teacher who might consider teaching Maths, Science or Technology? Let us train you Greendown is establishing a programme to retrain qualified teachers to teach these subjects

Are you a graduate who would like to teach Maths, Science or Technology? We'll train you as well Join the Greendown Teacher Training Programme.

• Company Pension Scheme

We are easy to reach on many bus routes and have a staff car park. If you would like to know more or apply then please contact Richard, Andy or Kai on 01793 522750 or drop in and see us. Regent Circus, Swindon. Tel: 01793 522750

Farepak Mail Order Limited is a highly successful mail order company supplying hampers and gi ft items for Christmas We are looking for an experienced Service Centre Administrator to join ou , small evening shift team. The main duties include dealing with queries by telephone, order processing and other administrative duties. Ideal applicants will have a professional telephone manner, accurate keyboard skills, together with the ability to work under pressure whilst always maintaining the highest standards of customer service. In return we offer a competitive rate of pay and good working conditions. Hours of duty are: 5pm to 10pm Monday to Friday

Farepak Mail Order

FOR DETAILS OF THESE PAID OPPORTUNITIES, CONTACT THE SCHOOL ON 01793 891921 Greendown School, Grange Park, Swindon SN5 6HN Tel: (01793) 874224 Fax: (01793) 876274

L^J Mechanical Services Due to our ongoing commitments and expansion plans we require the following staff • General Office/Adtnin Assistant - full time position, must be able to use Word and Excel. Experience using Sage an advantage, although full training will be given. • Pipe Fitters - must be experienced in all aspects of commercial screwed pipework (welding an advantage). Must be able to use initiative and work unsupervised. • Plumbers or Improvers - able to work in the commercial field as well as the domestic. • Plumbers Mates/Trainees - must be enthusiastic and reliable although no experience required Rates of pay for all of the above positions to be discussed depending on experience. Please call 01793 541419 for an informal chat regarding any of the above positions. BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon SN2 2PJ Tel: 01793 541419 Fax: 01793 495759

GARDENERS LINK ENTERPRISE WORKS

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Swindon's No 1 Fencing & Shed manufacturer .._ ^t -

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• Garden fencing

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GET YOUR GARDEN FIT Landscaping, patios, paths & ponds, fencing, clearance, block paving

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Contact John Wadsworth

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LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Fencing: Close board/ Panels/Gates

* Panels and trellis, closeboard, picket, post & rail, chain/ink, security etc. * Patios, decking, water features, turfing and planting

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Swindon Contractors

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE

LAWN & HEDGE CUTTING GENERAL GARDEN CLEARANCE FENCE STAINING & MAINTENANCE Give your garden a makeover Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556

Come along and check out our quality products. Our customers tell us that we give the best value for money in the area. Trade enquiries welcome

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Large range of outdoor aquatic products now in stock.

MIRACLE GRO1KG ONLY £2.99 PLUS further £1 off* when you buy £5 of plants li mited stock

t oses Buy 2 get 3rd free!^^/ From our extensive range of bush & climbing varieties

GARDEN FURNITURE OFFER 5 piece hardwood folding table & 4 chair dining set Separate selling price £359.99

OUR PRICE ONLY £250.00

Open 7 days a week * Plenty of free parking * Coffee Shop

Fish, ponds, ornaments,

pumps and plants

PBI slug pellets 800g Rec. price £4.59 OUR PRICE ONLY £2.99

Purton Road

Helpful & friendly staff offering expert advice at

Stone Lane Garden Centre, Stone Lane, Lydiard Millicent, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 771766 www.toomers.co.uk email: sales@toomers.co.uk

Haydoi Wick & Abbey Meads

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& Shaw

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The Link Magazine • June 2000

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com

Museum of Great Western Railway gets Royal opening on 27 June It's half price on 14 June to see the wonders of STEAM, the day Swindon's railway heritage centre, first opens its doors to the public. And on 27 June Prince Charles makes a return visit to the site to officially launch the latest tourist attraction in South West England. Located in the 70,000 square foot Hands on displays and videos feaR shop, which was started in 1843 turing testimonies of railway worksoon after the GWR came to Swin- ers, tell the remarkable story of don, adjacent to the main railway how Swindon boomed into the line, STEAM has two major themes: town it is today. 'Swindon and the works and The museum will also have a 'Swindon at the heart of the GWR library, cafe and an education suite and its contribution to the devel- for school visits. A bridge at third opment of the railways in Britain.' floor level will allow visitors to Reconstructed foundries and look down on exhibits, and a viewmachine ing point in the gallery will proworkshops vide a panorama across the Lonwill recreate don to Bristol railway line to the From the November 1998 Link. Former railway worker Alf Neate restarts the the heat, town centre. GWR clock to symbolically launch the STEAM project watched by former dust, noise Entry: £4.80 adults, £3 children; council leader Maurice Fanning and coun Derique Montaut and smells of £13 for a family of four. the town's Swindon - where I live: heavy inpoems wanted dustrial past. The A competition has been launched centre piece to find a child to help open; GRANGE FARM NURSERIES of the exhibi- STEAM on 14 June. tion will be the famous 80 tonne Youngsters at Swindon infant For the best selection of ornamental & fruit trees, shrubs, Caerphilly Castle, dramatically lit and primary schools are being roses, perennials, conifers, heathers and alpines in the area and accessible from below by a pit asked to write a poem on the theme in the floor. There will be rebuilt 'Swindon - where I live.' Clematis Queen of the Climbers- I 00s in tack platforms, rolling stock and examThe winner will have a leading Garden sundries, paving & ornamental stoneware Summer ples of the wide range of items role in the opening ceremony and Quality water features at realistic prices basket & made in Swindon. his or her class will be among the peddln51ypta"tts Wooden garden furniture & bird houses STEAM will also be a centre of first visitors . The school will also Helpful service & friendly advice , social history and will tell a story receive a £50 book token. of how the achievement of the peoDetails have been circulated to Not just a garden centre ple who worked 'inside' created schools but information can be - more a gardener's paradise. the basis for the town's present obtained from Emma Valentine on strength after the works closed. 466515.

Visit tour local garden centre

F Teak Garden Furniture Beautifully designed and

UP A VER DD GARAGE DOORS SUPPLIED, FITTED, REPAIRED (SPARE PARTS AVAILABLE)

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garden Tables: 5 styles £255 - £425 Chairs: 4 styles £69 - £85 Cushions £19 - £45 Steamer chair £155

LOCAL GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST

Garden benches: 3 styles £345 Parasols: green or cream £159 Lazy chair £110

REMOTE CONTROL R INCREASED SECURITY

On display at:

Blunsdon Caravan Centre Lady Lane Blunsdon, Swindon

01793 721345 (Closed Monday) www.swindoncaravans.com

Maxwell House • Maxwell Street • Swindon

The Link Magazine • June 2000 T CL Reclaimed Timber

Ply, timber, hardboard, chipboard, sleepers, telegraph poles Delivery arranged in Swindon area

Drop by or tel: 829715 The Yard, Tate Estate, Ki

MOBILE CAR SERVICING L REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee)

Walking and running for cancer cash Swindon women were out in force on 14 May to raise an estimated £70,000 for cancer charities at two separate events. "All our training paid off and we In the early hours 98 women and 5 men of the Swindon Twin all enjoyed the walk and returned Peaks team walked a marathon home safely." Tracey Watt from Grange Park course through London wearing decorated bras in aid of Break- managed to get back in time to through Breast Cancer and raised take part in the 5 kilometre Race for Life around Lydiard Park, with an amazing £30,000. about 1,500 other women. Money raised will go towards research into women's cancers. Ready to start the race for life, the Mayor of Swindon coun Joy Brunt with Maria Fruci and Chris Woodward from Westlea and PHH colleague

For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience (No VAT to pay) CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

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PETROL PRICES UP AGAIN! There's never been a better ti me to buy a scooter

See the fantastic range at The Cycling Centre, Swindon's No.1 scooter dealer Call in for a free demonstration today

See our sensational S)F/{4 scooters

Sarah Bailey, Alison Pewsey and Tracey Lewis from Shaw, still smiling at the end of their marathon walk

Hard working team organiser Eunice Salmon, from Nine Elms, said the majority of participants came from publicity over the last few months in The Link. "It was a lovely surprise when the event organiser Nina Barough came up to me before the walk and said Swindon had the biggest team from anywhere in Britain.

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REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT

The Link Magazine â€˘ June 2000

Ukraine dentists return home with new ideas Swindon's efforts to improve training for dentists in Eastern Europe received a big boost when two dentists from the Chekassy region of Ukraine spent two weeks in early May learning how treatment is provided in Britain. very slow to accept new ideas." ., Ivan Kovalenko, the director of Kateryna said she thought â€” dental services forChekassy,which women are less tortured by houset . __ . x _ is the size of Holland, and dentist work and have more time for their Kateryna Kormovenko, came to the children and to develop profes. town after Freshbrook dentist sional skills. t^ Brendon Ball and orthodontist RiBrendon Ball said the visit had ^. chard Swift made a trip to Ukraine been very successful and very ` last year to deliver equipment an emotional. "We have become more materials and take part in training. aware of what we have and what With assistance from the Swinwe squander in our society. Ivan don community dental service, Ivan and Kateryna visited clinics, South Swindon MP Julia Drown, second from right, meets Ivan Kovalenko, and Kateryna have reminded us of private practices, PMH and the third from left, and Kateryna Kormovenko, with from left, interpreter Natasha the difficulties they work under and the conditions for people in Bristol dental hospital. Not speak- Manamsa, Dot Wheadon, Brendon Ball, Richard Swift and Bill Allen ing any English all explanations was like ours about 30 years ago. to get people to take responsibility Ukraine. But their optimism is a and discussions had to be trans- They still do a lot of drilling and for their own dental well being. beacon of hope." The visit came about as a result filling, usually without pain kill- "The attitude of dentists here is lated. Dot Wheadon from the commu- ers, whilst we now put the empha- very good, so is the choice of den- of The Link's coverage of Dentaid and Hope Now charities over the tist and the treatments available. nity dental service said she was sise on prevention." "We will be making a big effort last three years, and we arranged Ivan said he was impressed by impressed by Ivan and Kateryna's knowledge. "They are obviously the level of equipment available in to change the ways things are done for Bill Allen to meet the dentists. well trained, but in a system that Britain, but also by the effort made in Ukraine but the bureaucracy is (see story below)

Glitz and glamour for teenagers living in Swindon House Another sell out crowd of revellers is expected to attend the fourth ball at the Chinese Experience in aid of disadvantaged children in Ukraine on 10 June. to provide a place where teenagers can be supOrganised by the Swindon Ukraine orphanported as they move into adult life. There is age committee, over ÂŁ30,000 has already been enormous temptation for children with literally raised to buy and equip a home for six teenage nothing to get into crime. Without the house boys in the city of Chekassy, through Southampmany would have to live on the streets." ton based charity Hope Now. 'Swindon House' Contact Bill to check availability of tickets on opened last December. 790180. Committee member Bill Allen said, "it really Right: Swindon House, during building works is fantastic that Swindon people have been able

WOOTTON BASSETT MILLENNIUM CELEBRATIONS 24 JUNE - 2 JULY

e Set;d BASSETT BOOKS YOUR FIRST STOP FOR 34 High Street

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse, cleaner bag or consumer unit to fridges, freezers or vacuum cleaners , we offer a fast, efficient and personal service. DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE 11 The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378

Body & Soul THE AROMATHERAPY SHOP Candles & holders 0, Relaxation music Windchimes & mobiles 0 Aromatherapy oils Handmade soaps o Gifts, crystals, incense 0 Body piercing jewellery 127 High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 849111 Mon - Sat 9am - 5.30pm

Party Box The One Stop Party Shop & Professional Balloon Decorating Service Balloons • Banners • Gift wrap Cake decorations - Theme items Fancy dress & accessories Helium DIY kits & gas cylinders Partyware • Venue dressing Tableware • Wedding requisites Comprehensive range of products 1 3 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett

^^ e Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories.

Tel: 01793 855166 Fax: 01793 752548 Customer orders welcome Schools, libraries and other organisations supplied

—

MOTORSAVE • Fan belts • Spark plugs • Filters • Water pumps • Steering racks • Spares for most vehicles • Large range of accessories • Batteries f • Tools

01793 854359 124 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

Mon - Sat 9am to 5pm

Join in the fun of the festival The people of Wootton Bassett are pulling together to make summer 2000 a year to remember with a variety of events. The week of celebrations starts on Saturday 24 June with a farmer's market and a shop window competition in the High Street and a fete and fun run at the Rugby Club in Stoneover Lane. There's a Rhythm and Blues evening at the club, and a concert by the Wootton Bassett orchestra at the school in Lime Kiln. On Sunday 25 June, US Army Veterans of the 452 QMC, who were based at Wootton Bassett prior to D Day return to the town for a Royal British Legion parade to the Garden of Rememberance, which they helped to fund, and a service at 3pm. An open air festival songs of praise at 5pm in Old Court Park will be preceded by picnics and music. During the following week there will be concerts, quizzes, a coffee morning and a field walk around the Braydon Forest project. Saturday 1 July is Millennium Fete Day at Longleaze School and a flower festival at St Bartholomew's Church, High Street will bring together local churches and organisations to celebrate Christ 2000. The church will be open on Saturday, 10am to 6pm and on Sunday 2 July 11.30am to 5pm. A United Churches service on Sunday 2 July at 10am will be followed by a millennium street festival launched at midday by Devizes Major-Wrecks. The high street will be closed to traffic and there will be jazz, jugglers, danc-

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Calling you to Wootton Bassett, long serving town crier Fred 'Boots' Deacon and apprentice Dane Griffin.

ers, puppet shows, singers and streetside craft stalls. George Scarrott's fun fair will be a popular attraction, as will the open day at GWRfm studios at Lime Kiln from 12 noon to 4pm. Stella Taylor, one of the festival organisers, said, "the summer celebrations mean everybody can join in. We've had great support from local organisations and individuals and we would love to see lots of visitors from Swindon participating in our big community effort." For more details on how to take part in the quiz night, walks and for tickets to the various concerts, call 850824 or 523210.

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Wall & Floor tiles

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(on production of this advert) _) B usiness Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-3pm

SPECIALISING IN CHINESE & CANTONESE CUISINE

10 selection Chinese buffet meals Lunchtime £6.50. Eves. £9.50 Tuesday: Ladies eat for only £5 buffet/evening only) Open Tuesday to Sunday 12noon - 2pm & 5pm - 11pm Last orders 30 minutes before closing

Tel: 01793 853121

The Link Magazine • June 2000

Have strong beautiful natural looking nails ed Baiter l ecratvr

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Hillside Building Services'

t Extensions, loft conversion, specialists in all types of building & plastering All work fully insured Contact Dave on 01793 488470

' rE

Fibreglass Nail Extensions Full set £30

Qualified freelance hairdresser Have your hair done in the comfort of your own home Tel: 01793 887187

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Ladies for an evening of fun and shopping, gather your friends for a party

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Tickets to Party In The Park, 27 August, 3 adult @ £18 each & 1 child @ £9, genuine reason for sale. Tel: 876840

Gracu Cumfi tandem pram, navy & white, with accessories, suit 2 children 0-4 yrs, £60. Tel: 886636 Double buggy Maclaren umbrella style, one lie back positions, gd condition, inc raincover, £35. Tel: 871406

Small sofa bed, blue & cream check excel cond, £45. Tel: 877749 Sofa bed, foam fold-out, Aztec design, vgc, £60 ono. Tel: 524010 Sofa bed, green draylon, metal action, buyer collects, good cond, £30. Tel:

Little Tikes rail and road track set,

727648

£13. Tomy Walkabout baby monitor, £15. Tel: 874764

Single size foldaway guest bed in excel cond, £15. Tel: 881362 Single bed mattress & base, brand new, in packaging, £55. Tel: 702310 Pine effect display cabinet, internal display lights, 3 drawer, 3 cupboards, £115 ono. Tel: 874764 Kitchen table, white top, 36" square, pine legs, & 4 pine ladderback chairs with upholstered seats, £89 ono. 2 brass wall lights, (switchable) & two 3 arm flush ceiling pendants, £59 ono. Tel: 879401 Combination dinner/breakfast/teaset for six, dishwasher safe, excel cond, 43 pieces, £20. Tel: 701779 Large teak tiled top coffee table, continental style, L 130cm, w 72cm, h 45cm, £50. Tel: 723332 Pine Stacka beds, 2 single beds, 2 ma tt resses, stack on one another, £150 ono. Tel: 700909 Solid pine Welsh dresser style unit, hand made, 7 ft tall, 2 cupboards, 3

Lew Ways Safari bicycle, 11" wheels, stabilisers, gd cond, £15 ono. Vivi Megarock bicycle, 14" wheels, stabilisers, good cond, £25. Tel: 879401

Two Tour Line golf bags, assorted irons, mens & ladies. Tel: 881739 Black riding boots, size 2, £5. Tel: 347270

Bicycle, teenage girls, 20" gd cond, £10. Tel: 870774

Brownie uniform, polo shirt, 30" culottes 28", £7. Tel: 728440

Kettler tricycle, £7 ono. Kettler tricycle with tipper, £8, both in good condition. Tel: 879401

Exercise bike, Eurotrim 325 with electronic console & pulse meter, excel cond, £55 ono. Tel: 524010

Mothercare baby bath, stand & tray,

£20. Mothercare high chair, £10. Pram/ pushchair, sun hood, basket & few accessories, £80. Tel: 704191

Exercise bike with electronic calorie counter, £25. Tel: 704169 Sliding mirror door kit, 72" x 78" c/w top & bottom rail, shelf etc, white metal frame, £60 ovno. Tel: 870796

Britax Rock-a-tot car seat, teddybear pattern, with sun canopy and cover, £30. Matching Britax Trio pushchair with hood, covers & raincover, all as new, £120 ono. Tel: 700631

Walnut TV & video cabinet, made by craftsman, must be seen, £40. Tel: 704511 (eves)

Pram Beebecar Nicer Sport 3 in 1 multi-colour with accessories, excellent condition. £45. Tel: 349216

Drinks bar, teak, need 4ft area, 5 li ghts, attractive piece of furniture. Tel: 480599 r -------------------1

Free private For Sale & Wanted ads Return this form to The Link, Papermakers House, Swindon SN5 7BD

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication)

Martin Cone/noun writes Community Mediation Swindon is a registered charity which aims to help resolve disputes such as arguments over noise, loud music, abuse, car parking and rubbish. Mediators are all volunteers and we are looking for people to train on our next course which consists of an introductory day on Tuesday 6 June, 10am to 3.30pm, plus six training days: Tuesdays 20,27 June, 4,11,18, 25 July, 9.15am to 5.15pm. Tea/coffee and lunch will be provided and we may be able to assist with carers' charges. It is free for those who wish to become volunteer mediators with Community Mediation Swindon. Following the completion of training, you will be expected to commit to an average of two hours per week to carrying out mediations and attending a monthly meeting. If you want to know more then please call 484383.

For Sale

Boys Raleigh Ascender 15 gears, 101 4 yrs vgc. £30 ono. Girls Raleigh Calypso, 5 gears, 7-10yrs, vgc, £30 ono. Tel: 875958

Help sort out community problems

For Sale Hotpoint washing machine, vgc, £60. Tel: 724225 (eves) Cast iron Coalbrookdale coal/wood burning stove & flue, width 15", height 21", £150. Tel: 762697 House bricks, approx 250, £50 ono. Tel: 694973 Piano suit beginner, £60. Tel 870729 Sanyo camcorder, 8mm, carrying bag, longlife battery & charger included, excel cond, £150. Tel: 873313 Cam Link video titler & processor, hardly used, original box, £75, (£200 new). Tel: 882401 Rotastak Hamster City, plus extra units, gd cond, £20. Tel: 882868 Rabbit hutch, or guinea pigs, 4ft long, on legs, felt roof, weather proofed, £30. Tel: 724512 Wood pallets as new, £1 each. Tel: 721698 Haynes w/shop manuals Ford Escort, Sept 1980-1989 & Sept 1980-1985, £5 each. Tel: 728440 Haynes w/shop manuals Ford Diesel Engine 1.6 Itr, 1984 - 1987, £5 Tel: 728440 Red moped, Honda Melody plus manual and helmet, exc cond, £400. Tel: 881707 (eves)

W/robe & dressing table units, not flat pack, excel cond, £40. Tel: 728440

Kawasaki Balius 250, M reg, black, 6400 miles, tax & MOT, 33.6 hp restrictor fitted, £1,895 ono quick sale. Tel: 871989

Carpet roll, brand new, 3m x 4m, super quality, colour green, bargain, only £60. Tel: 721698

Vauxhall Carlton 1.8 Dreg, dark blue, 11 months, MOT, new tyres, gd cond, £700. Tel: 701225

Hydrobath, Balsan, good working order, cost £585, sell for £250. Tel: 480599

Range Rover Carmichael, ideal mobile workshop, low mileage, 11 months MOT, £4,000 ono. Tel: 740237

Servis larder freezer, less than 6 months old, £140. New 6 months contents insurance, £70. Tel: 870240

Wanted

shelves, vgc, £150 ono. Tel: 703177

Fiat Tipo driver side mirror, wheel rim, hub caps. Tel: 486851

See us on the net @ www.swindon!ink.com

Volunteers sought to help at new asylum seekers' centre A new drop-in centre, aimed at helping asylum seekers in Swindon, is looking for 'warm and welcoming' people willing to lend a helping hand. The Harbour will open in June Swindon Council's Asylum Seeker behind St Luke's Church in Broad worker. "We will be providing Street. The organisers are wanting basic training on answering simto recruit volunteers to run the ple queries and relating to those in centre for a few hours once a week need. This is a great opportunity or fortnight. for people to broaden their own In recent months, the number of experience and gain new skills." asylum seekers in Swindon has The group acknowledges that grown and is expected to increase. there has been a lot of negative "We felt that somewhere was publicity about asylum seekers. needed that asylum seekers could "There are going to be people who feel was a bit like home - a welcom- abuse the system," says Revd ing place in a strange land," said Donegan-Cross. "But we don't Revd Guy Donegan-Cross, one of want the lack of integrity shown the proposed centre's organisers. by some to mean that we are made "Similar initiatives have been set less hospitable. For all the so-called up in other places, Gloucester, Bris- 'fakes,' there are many who have tol, Plymouth; we thought that it's fled from terrible pain and sufferonly right that Swindon should ing. offer the same hand of friendship." "Many of the asylum seekers The centre hopes to run for three here will be feeling lost and bewildays a week, from loam to 4pm. It dered. We are hoping that The will provide basic advice, simple Harbour will be a place where they refreshments and a place to relax. will feel a little more on firm It is hoped that English teaching ground." and computers can be made availAnyone interested in becoming able. a volunteer should contact Phillada "We are looking for people who Ware on 729592. are sensitive to other cultures, cornFor information on The Harbour, mitted to asylum seekers and will- call Revd Guy Donegan-Cross on ing to learn," says Jenny Kincova, 521296.

Stop, drop and roll say fire crews Year 2000 is turning out to be our most active for some time, writes firefighter Ian Jeary from Westlea fire station. Last month the staAlways use the aption attended 49 propriate barbecue fires, 45 false fluid or fire lighters. alarms and 50 speIn the unlikely event cial service calls that you are conwhich include infronted by somebody cidents such as on fire remember floodings, chemithese few life saving cal leaks, road trafpoints. Firstly stay fic accidents and calm. They need you animal rescues. to help them as At this time of quickly as possible. year there is an increase in fires in Protect yourself from the flames and around the garden as many of and try to stop the person moving us get out the barbecue. The prob- about violently, which only helps lem is that flames can easily spread spread the flames. Next, place to fences, sheds, garages and even them on the ground as gently and homes, often because the charcoal firmly as possible, if you have the is deposited behind the flowerbeds option a softer surface is best. Then next to a fence, before it has com- cover them in a coat or blanket , pletely cooled down. Remember, anything non-flammable to once the barbecue is alight do not smother flames. Roll them around move it and make sure somebody until the flames are out. stays with it - if only to stop the If medical help is needed, call bangers burning. for it now. You can cool the victim Often the most dangerous time down using clean water, but do with barbecues is when lighting not throw it on and do not remove them. Do not ever use petrol or any clothing. pour any flammable liquid over If you remember to stop, drop one once it has started. These ac- and roll, then you should have tions are very hazardous and can helped to limit the effects of the lead to severe burns. fire and maybe saved a life.

The Link Magazine • June 2000 35

Weekly social lunch Members of the Toothill Lunch Club get together weekly for a meal and social chat at Toothill community centre on Wednesdays at 12 noon and any senior resident of West Swindon is welcome to join. For more information, contact Maggie Stedman on 853318 or Kit Pooley on 611216. Some of the club members on a five day break in the sunshine

Otµnllpry ^

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BUILDING SERVICES Extensions, Alterations, Renovations All aspects of garden construction including fencing All general building work

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (01793) 727824

Brilliant white fascias 6 month1 s•:,

interest i free offer! Written tletails on request

The ve ry best quality system for longer durability fitted by the pa rt ners for over 15 years

• Locally run family business • All work guaranteed • Cover or replacement

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For free estimate call Paul on or 07712 749315 ODD

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Very reasonable prices Free estimates Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 01793-886022

T—Asses Di

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers

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

Same day, local service wherever possible

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc. Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

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Quality carpentry & joinery for the home/office * Doors, internal & external * Kitchens * Skirtings & mouldings * Fitted and free-standing wardrobes, bureaus etc * Manufacture & fitting * Supply & fit/fit only

Traditional carpentry & building services Kitchens, loft conversions, stairs, doors, building work, bedroom fitments, domestic & commercial works undertaken Free, no obligation quotations Call 01793 644313 or 0468 271994

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ELECT RICAL SERVICES STEVE PACKER ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR • Fully qualified electrician • Domestic, commercial and industrial installations • Quality workmanship guaranteed • Free quotations • 24 hour call-out

Tel: 01793 436844 Mobile 0976 691989

SUNBED HIRE Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental Fast tanning canopies and doubles also available Free installation & local delivery Tel: Swindon 726906 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

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Jean Saunders, Co-ordinator of Swindon Friends of the Earth reports on a meeting organised by the local Council for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) group, held at Commonweal School on 17 May. Tony Burton, deputy director for same all over the country.' Speaking about Swindon, Mr policy of the CPRE, gave hope to As a member of the Govern- Burton said that the Council had thousands of Swindonians who ment's Urban Task Force, Mr been given the green light to rehave had enough of continued ur- Burton spoke about the 105 recom- move greenfield sites from their ban sprawl destroying the coun- mendations made in Lord Rogers town plan and certainly not add tryside. Report on how to make towns and the 'Front Garden' to the list. He He talked about the exciting new cities attractive places to live, to said that it was not too late to enera of Government planning policy put an end to urban decay and to sure that the Northern Developthat would put an end to develop- protect the green spaces and tran- ment Area is built to far higher ing an area of countryside the size quillity of the countryside that design standards to accommodate of Bristol every year yet which still bring so much pleasure to peo- the growing number of people who fails to provide homes for those ple's lives, create new households as a result most in need. New Government policy intro- of living on their own, though the He complained about the qual- duced this year has provided clear population of the UK is barely ity of design of new housing de- guidance to ensure that new growing. velopment that lack distinctiveness greenfield sites are not cherryThe key note speech was inspirand fail to make best use of land, picked first for development until ing. It is clear that times are changHe accused volume house-build- all other options have been ex- ing. It is a great pity that senior ers of'using pattern books to build plored to accommodate housing Swindon councillors were not dwellings that look exactly the needs. there to hear the message.

The transport challenge. Don't choke Swindon in June Green transport is the challenge set this month to the Westlea family taking part in the Action at Home scheme. With the problems of traffic conhe has also just got a bike. He is gestion and air pollution, we all currently checking it over and getneed to do our bit to help. But how? ting kitted out with the right safety Kristianne Drake and Steve gear, such as lights and a helmet, Brown and their son Roan have before exploring the network of been finding out what they can do local cycle routes. A Swindon cywith the help of the Action at Home cle map is available from local liInformation pack. braries or Swindon Council to help In general, more than half of all people navigate around town. journeys are less than two miles The Action at Home family has long; it is these short journeys, also helped to reduce their transwhen the engine is not warmed port impacts by looking at other up, that cause the most pollution. aspects of their lifestyle. Choosing Kristianne and Steve think careto buy British produce in the shops, Kristianne and Roan make their way fully before using their car and for example, helps to cut down on only drive when they really need to Westlea School wit Ii helpfrom lolli- the miles food travels, and the asto. By avoiding short trips they pop man John Hodges sociated environmental effects. not only help the environment, but getting in the car and sitting in a June is Don't Choke Swindon also keep the miles off the car and traffic jam. Apart from their main month, with lots of activities to enreduce wear on the engine. weekly shop, they also walk up to courage us to take up greener travel Walking is an environmentally the local shops to pick up any for- habits. The Great Swindon Bike sound alternative to driving and is gotten essentials. Ride takes place on Sunday 4 June. great exercise too. The family walks Nearly a third of all car mileage To take part, contact Lorna Bell at with Roan to school, where a lolli- is clocked up by people driving to Swindon Council on 466449. pop man helps them safely across work or during work. Steve has To get involved with the Action the road. Kristianne walks to work, been looking at the alternatives. at Home scheme, contact Cath Rice which is much less stressful than Whilst sometimes walking to work, on 526244.

01 793 469552

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A unique environmental wildlife haven was unveiled on 9 May next to the Rushy Platt housing development, off Wootton Bassett Road. Bordered by the recently cleared out canal and the old railway line cyclepath, the site is unusual in that observers can see wildlife, birds and insect from above, and are able to note the changing colours of the vegetation throught the seasons. Known before West Swindon was built as First Field, because it was the first bit of countryside outside the town, the preserved ref- James and Alsion Harris from Prior Park School help unveil an information uge is now home to kingfishers, board with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust director Dr Gary Mantle, volunteer snipe and warblers. warden Denis Hedges and Claire Collyer as the Rushy Platt vole

The Link Magazine • June 2000

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

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

New church in the north

Swindon churches on air on 106.8

North Swindon Baptist Church currently meets at Greenmeadow Primary School, Pen Close and would like to extend a warm welcome to anyone who wishes to attend their Sunday morning worship,10.30am to 11.30am. There is a Sunday School and a creche. Other activities involving the church include a Thursday Bible study, football for 15 years and under at the Haydon Centre and Sunflowers parents and toddlers group at Abbey Meads. For further information call Peter Hillier on 700136.

Flame FM is a month long initiative aimed at strengthening families and decreasing the number of marital breakdowns through the

Hair 1r Sarah

Play the

Or&r Piano

Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

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

Easy Iron

Rubbish Removals

Learn to Sing

Woodchipper Hire

Home ironing services Competitive prices Call Andrea on (01793) 870830 or mobile: 0793 288 3127

Household & Garden Waste disposed of for you

SWINDON

BC The person who changed AD History is changing peoples lives Today

FAMILY CHURCH

Call (01793 772268

airwaves

A month long radio station run by Premier Christian radio will be on air 24 hours a day from 27 May to 24 June. Supported by the Bishop of Swindon and involving all denominations, the temporary radio station will run on 106.8 FM. It will not only broadcast a mix of music and entertainment but will be calling for support and action for children whose parents have split up. There are about 75 volunteers

helping to run the initiative from coffee makers and technicians to DJs. Station coordinator Barbara Aftelak said, "there will be a community feel to the station, filled with Christian slots at certain times of the day. We want as many people as possible to switch on and listen." The project will be based in St Mary's Church, Commonweal Road and more volunteers would be welcome. Call Barbara on 536815 for more details.

Together in one place Between 9 and 11 June Swindon Christians will celebrate 2000 years since the birth of Christ at three major events : Saturday 11th, 11am - 3pm Friday 9th, 10am Millennium service for Swindon Street theatre in the Brunel Centre schools to be held at Christchurch, starring the face painted vicar Roly Old Town. An action packed event the Clown designed to celebrate the life of All day: Millennium sports superJesus and his relevance to the youth stars for under 10s, 13s, 16s in five of today. Details from Guy events at the County Ground. Donegan-Cross, 521296. Details from Nigel Sharpe, 644178. Saturday 11th Sunday 12th Conference organised by Swindon Congregations from 100 churches Churches Social Action Group: in Swindon will flock together for 'What does God require of you' a service at the County Ground, with workshops on homelessness, with mass choirs, bands, music third world debt relief, the needs groups, dance, drama and Roly of minorities. Details from Phillada the Clown. The 5,000 worshippers Ware, 729592. will be led by Rev. Brian Fessey.

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SUNDAYS 10.30AM

\Aorsk_v Road

MEETING AT

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THE WINNERS LOUNGE m m m 1.^,^n

SWINDON TOWN

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FOOTBALL CLUB AND AT

THE PINEHURST PEOPLE'S CENTRE Al! ages of children & teens cared for Information: call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

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6ui(dinq with people Come and join us Sunday at 10am & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050 or call at the Church office Jesus said: "I have come that YOU might' have LIFE and have it in itsfistness"

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent — 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw — 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington: 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze — 9:00am, 10:30am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church — 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church — 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

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Greenmeadow P ri ma ry School ]I r

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North Swindon Baptist Church

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

Sunday Worship 10.30am - Sunday School & Creche -

Pastor Dennis Weaver

Web: http://nsbc.org.uk TEL: (01793) 727202

The Bolingbroke Hotel, Restaurant Y ^

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Bar

In the cou n tyy, but so close to y ou Visit us on a summer's evening for drinks on the verandah overlooking the cricket field and a delicious meal in our newly opened dining room. A tranquil setting just a mile from West Swindon •e

Chefs David Burgess and Simon Williams are continually updating our comprehensive menu with fascinating dishes. Bar area with snacks and light meals, 4 cask beers including 6X, Worthington & Bass, 4 lagers, ciders, fine wines and spirits

[

• •

8 large centrally heated double glazed en-suite rooms, each with colour TV and tea/coffee making facilities A licenced hostelry since before 1841, The Bolingbroke is an excellent meeting point for friends, relations and the business person.

• Sunday lunches available: 12noon to 2.30pm, along with full a Ia carte menu • Booking advisable v Midweek lunchtime menu on request

The Bolingbroke, Hook, Nr Wootton Bassett, Swindon Tel: (01793) 852357 • Fax: (01793) 854972 Restaurant and bar open 12noon - 2.30pm; 7pm - 10.30pm Closed Monday lunchtime. Now open Sunday evenings.

All major credit cards accepted